Historical Posts
Sorry I’m Late
Thanks to Jim Miller, working with the Gray Church of Christ, for the content of this post.
Sorry I’m Late But…
I will be the first to say yes there are at times legitimate reasons to be late for class or services. That is not what I am going to address here, so do not get your knickers in a bunch.
Every Christian knows that the first day of the week is the Lord’s day and that they need to be prepared both physically and mentally for that day of worship. The same concept applies to mid-week Bible study and Gospel meetings and any other times the church comes together, such as an all sing night etc.
There are times when illness or some unforeseen event will keep us from assembling however, for a Christian who knows full well the times and places for which they are to assemble, for them to be in the habit of saying, “Sorry I’m Late”, and not to be ready for these known events, something is very wrong.
What Could Be More Important?
How can a Christian follow Matthew 6:33 and not care enough to be up and ready or to allow something to come between them and God? You have to ask what could possibly be more important than one’s worship of our Creator. We know the the times set aside for Bible classes and we know exactly what time we meet for worship. We know the dates and times of Gospel meetings and are given plenty of advance notification to arrange to be present. Why would we be saying, sorry I’m late?
Do you really believe that God is pleased when you allow things to come before Him? When you come in late, and even though it may be a small distraction to those already singing, praying or studying, do you think God is pleased with your actions? You know whether you’re the type that might need to get up a little earlier in order to get ready on time. You know that there is a set time for each meeting. You know that Bible study and class are important and needed and the times that they begin. You know well the scripture that tells us not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together as is the manner of some (Hebrews 10:24-26).
You can not live by the old adage better late than never. Honestly answer this question; what is more important than your service to God? What could possibly be that important?
Is There A Heart Problem?
We have a real heart problem today when we have gotten used to brother so and so always being late. We have come to expect it and accept it. Instead, we should be explaining that it is not acceptable and teach him the importance of being on time, or even early. This is not to mention the fact that most who show up late are the first ones to head for the door as soon as the service is over. This clearly shows a heart problem and that brother so and so wants to do other things that are more important to him.
Personally, I look forward to the first day of the week and any other meetings decided upon. It gives me time to learn what God expects of me and it brings me joy to know I am doing what my Creator expects of me. Frankly, I don’t believe we spend enough time even on Sunday when we set aside a mere two hours in the morning and maybe an hour in the evening for worship to God. I would like to think I would have been one of the first in attendance to hear Paul preach and be one of the last to leave when he ended his preaching at midnight. But I digress…
Make Preparations And Plan Ahead!
Decide to stop saying, “Sorry I’m Late.” You know you need to be in Bible class and most do not even start until between nine and ten am. You have several hours to get ready before hand and you know the night before what day it will be when you awake. We need to find a way to instill in the hearts of men a true love of God and His Word. That is what it really boils down too when you think about it.
Do yourself a big favor: set out your clothes the night before, set your alarm plenty early so you have time to get ready and eat and do everything else you need to do so that you can be on time. Do these things and you won’t be saying, “Sorry I’m Late” anymore! After all God is waiting on you.
Jim Miller
13 Liberty Avenue
Gray, Maine 04039
207-299-0454
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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Worship in Song
Introduction
A. This is the fifth Sunday in May, which means shortly we will have a service emphasizing singing. Whether we can sing really well or can’t carry a tune in a bucket, we can all “make a joyful noise unto the LORD (Psalm 100:1).”
B. We must do so because God is our audience, and we need to please Him and encourage one another (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16).
Body
I. We speak to one another.
A. We can only speak to one another in song if we are together (Hebrews 10:24-25).
B. We must sing with the spirit and the understanding (1 Corinthians 14:15).
II. We make melody in our hearts to the Lord.
A. In order to make melody (from Greek psallo), one must “twitch” or “twang” on an instrument.
1) Frequently in the Old Testament, musical instruments were used (harp, tambourine, lute, etc.).
2) In the New Testament, the heart is specified as an instrument.
3) No authority exists in the New Testament for singing with an instrument.
B. Jesus and His disciples sang a hymn (Matthew 26:30) before going to the Mount of Olives.
C. Paul and Silas sang hymns at midnight in prison (Acts 16:25).
D. Jesus taught us at least two things about worship:
1) We must worship in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24).
2) Our worship is vain if our heart is far from God (Matthew 15:8-9).
E. If we are cheerful, we are to sing psalms (James 5:13; Psalm 122:1).
III. We sing with grace in our hearts to the Lord.
A. We could not be saved without the grace of God (Titus 2:11; Ephesians 2:5).
B. For this, we are very thankful (Psalm 100:1-5).
C. As sacrifices of thanksgiving were offered under the Old Testament (Leviticus 7:11-12), so we offer a sacrifice to God under the New Testament.
1) Our bodies are a living sacrifice acceptable to God (Romans 12:1).
2) The fruit of our lips is a continual sacrifice of praise (Hebrews 13:15).
a. God created the fruit of our lips (Isaiah 57:19).
b. Isaiah’s lips were touched with live coal from an altar, taking away his iniquity (Isaiah 6:5-7).
c. God’s words should be upon our lips (Isaiah 51:16; 59:21).
d. Hosea reminds us that God takes away our iniquities, so we will “offer the sacrifices [fruit] of our lips (Hosea 14:1-2).”
Conclusion
A. As Christians, we have many reasons to rejoice!
B. When we come together on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7) to sing, we encourage one another through song.
C. We give praise unto God, thanking Him for what all He has given to us.
D. We do so in a way that is pleasing unto Him and is edifying to us all.
Content by Richard Dillon
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Acceptable Worship
Acceptable Worship in God’s Eyes
“God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24).
To suggest that all worship is acceptable and approved by God would be contradictory to the teaching of Jesus. He accused the Pharisees of drawing near to God with their lips, but having their hearts removed from Him. He then charged them with “vain worship,” accusing them of teaching for doctrine the commandments of men (Matthew 15:8-9). Obviously, their worship was unacceptable to God.
There are three essential elements to acceptable worship according to the Lord (John 4:24).
First, acceptable worship must be directed to the right object – GOD. As the object of worship, He alone has the right to dictate what should be done as worship. Worship is not a spectator sport. We are all to be participants, and our worship is to be directed heavenward.
Second, acceptable worship must be in spirit. That is, it must be prompted by the right motives, and done with the right attitude. Our heart must be in it.
Third, our worship must be done in truth. Therefore, it must be authorized and approved by God in His word. We must come to God on His terms, not ours. We can be sincere and still not worship in truth. Should that happen, our worship is unacceptable to God. We must always seek to discover what God has revealed in His book and do it.
All three ingredients are essential for acceptable worship. Though directed at the right object (God), the Pharisees’ worship was unacceptable. It lacked both spirit and truth. Worship directed toward the right object and offered in the right spirit is also unacceptable if not governed by the dictates of God’s word. It is not a question of what is pleasing to men, but what is pleasing to God?
Is your worship acceptable to God? Is your worship directed toward Him? Are you prompted by the right motives? Are you guided by God’s word?
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Who Do We Worship?
Worship God Only
From the beginning, God has made it very clear that He, and He alone, is worthy of our worship. He commanded the children of Israel not to have any other gods before Him, nor make any graven images for themselves (Exodus 20:1-6). Aaron, along with Israel, broke this commandment when a golden calf was created for idol worship (Exodus 32); God was not pleased.
Besides images, people and angels have sometimes been the objects of worship. The devil tempted Jesus to worship him, and he would give Him the kingdoms of the world and their glory. However, Jesus, said, “…For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve (Matthew 4:8-10).’” When Peter was sent to preach to Cornelius, Cornelius fell down at his feet and worshiped him. However, Peter did not accept his worship and replied, “Stand up; I myself am also a man (Acts 10:26).” Similarly, John fell down at the feet of an angel to worship him. Again, the worship was refused and he was told: “See that you do not do that! I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. Worship God (Revelation 19:10; 22:8-9)!”
There is one who walked the earth, however, who did not refuse worship. The blind man was healed by Jesus, and when he learned that he had been healed by the Son of God, he believed in Him and worshiped Him. Jesus, who was God in the flesh (John 1), did not forbid him to worhip (John 9:35-39).
Content by Richard Dillon
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What Are You Looking For?
What are you looking for in a church?
It is not at all uncommon to hear someone speak of “church shopping.” By that, they mean that they are looking for a church which satisfies their needs, fulfills their desires, and provides what they want. Usually, but not always, they are looking for an entertaining worship experience, an active program providing day care, organized activities for the kids, and some social opportunities for themselves. All of which are well and good in a fraternal or social club, but is that really what the church is all about? What are you looking for that is meaningful?
The value of the worship experience is not determined by how it makes us feel, but how it pleases God. Worship is unacceptable when it offers people what they want, but does not give to God what He demands. Jesus condemned those who drew near to God with their lips while their hearts were far from Him. Their worship was vain because they taught as doctrine the commandments of men (Matthew 15:9). That kind of worship is more interested in what people want than what God has commanded. It is unacceptable, no matter how good it may make a person feel or match what they were looking for.
The attitude among many churches today is a reflection of attitudes in the political arena. Politicians are notorious for taking polls to determine positions. Sime preachers are often no different. Find out what the people want and give it to them. After all, the name of the game is seeing who can have the largest attendance, the biggest budget, attract the masses. Didn’t Paul have something to say about all of that? Seems to me he did (2 Timothy 4:1-5).
Think more about what you should be looking for. Acceptable worship must be directed toward the right object (GOD), done in the right spirit, and governed by God’s word (John 4:24). Personal preferences are irrelevant when it comes to determining what should or should not be done in worship. Ours is not a search for the church of our choice, but for the church of Christ’s choice. He has clearly spelled out in His word what the church is to be, how the church is to worship, and how Christians are to live. Those decisions have all been made for us. We must decide whether or not we will listen to Him and be looking for the things that matter to Him.
If you are looking for a church intent on pleasing God, not men, we would like to hear from you.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Who Pushed Me?
The story is told of an old man traveling on an ocean liner. A storm blew up and a young lady who had been leaning against the rail lost her balance and fell overboard. Almost immediately the old man appeared next to her in the water, keeping her afloat until both were safely pulled back into the ship. That evening, at a special party honoring the elderly gentleman for his bravery, he was called on to give a speech. The old man rose slowly, and looking intently into the faces of his fellow passengers, he said “There’s just one thing I want to know! Who pushed me?”
I think all of us need a little push from time to time. We know what we ought to do, we just need a little nudge to do it. That is one of the reasons why the early church met every Lord’s Day to worship together. The Lord knew our need for encouragement, and designed the collective assembly for that purpose. In the letter to the Hebrews the inspired writer wrote: “Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as we see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25).
We need the association and fellowship that the Christian assembly provides. Through it we are motivated to service and godly conduct. Worship is an uplifting experience if it is in spirit and in truth (John 4:24). If you are forsaking it, then you are missing out on much needed encouragement and direction. I want to encourage you to be faithful in your worship. Make a concerted effort to be present when the saints assemble. Don’t intentionally neglect the assembly, but plan to be present, and ask a friend to come with you.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Remember God in Youth
Solomon wrote: “Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth; before the evil days come and the years draw near when you will say, `I have no delight in them’” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). He knew what he was talking about.
Recent studies have shown that teens who regularly attend worship live much different lives than those who do not. Martha Sawyer Allen, in an article in the COLUMBUS DISPATCH (1-19-94), reported on the results of two major studies and a Gallup survey regarding teen religious activity. According to the studies, teens who are not active in church are almost twice as likely to have driven drunk in the past year. In addition, these same non-church-goers are almost twice as likely to be sexually active. Older teens are less likely to worship regularly than younger teens. A Gallup survey indicated that fifty-four percent of teens 13 to 15 worship regularly, while only 44 percent of teens 16 and older are regular church attenders.
Regular church attendance is probably not the only explanation for the disparity in the statistics regarding drunk driving and sexual activity. Generally, teens who worship regularly have parents who do the same. These parents, for the most part, reinforce the lessons learned at church. The home is, after all, the place where morality is most effectively taught, and the sooner parents start, the better!
I would encourage you to get in the habit of worshiping faithfully, not only for your own spiritual well-being, but for your children, too. It will make a tremendous difference in all your lives. Tragically, however, many people wait until it is too late. It is very important that you begin when you bring the baby home from the hospital. If you wait until he is a teenager to start going to church, you have waited too long.
Less than half of all American teens worship regularly, but that isn’t surprising considering the fact that less than half of the adults in this country are regular worshipers.
Get your children started on the right track. Don’t send them to church, bring them! It will make a difference.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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As Good As I Can Do
My grandchildren (they’re seven now) recently had friends over for a play date. As they sat down to dinner that evening Andy said to their guests, “We have to have a prayer before we eat. I’ll say it.” He proceeded to thank God for their food, for their friends, and even prayed for the sick. When he had said “Amen,” he looked up and exclaimed, “That’s as good as I can do!”
What an attitude! That’s all God wants from any of us. Just give it our best shot.
If we do the best we can, He will not ask more of us. When it comes to prayer, He really is not interested in our grammar, nor whether or not we use those oft repeated phrases that have become too common in public prayer. He wants us to speak from the heart. It does not have to be long or follow a prescribed pattern, as long as it is according to His will and in the name of Jesus.
When it comes to living the Christian life, He knows our limitations and weaknesses.
He doesn’t demand perfection, but He does expect faithfulness. Even Christians sin, but we must not be slaves to sin. We wake up each morning determined to make the most of the day. We want to serve Him, not in order to be saved, but because we are saved. Some days are harder than others. Sometimes we fail miserably, but our goal ought to be, because we are His children, to do as good as we can do.
Worship involves the same approach. We want to bring to the assembly the best we have to offer.
We will immerse ourselves in every aspect of worship with the desire to do our best. Every note we sing will not be flawless, our mind will tend to drift, and we may even lose sight of the fact that we assemble to worship Him, not entertain ourselves, but if we seek to give Him our best, He will not demand more than that from us.
The prophet Malachi indicted his contemporaries when he wrote for God: “A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If then I am a father, where is my honor? And if I am a master, where is my fear? says the Lord of hosts to you, O priests, who despise my name. But you say, ‘How have we despised your name?’ By offering polluted food upon my altar. But you say, ‘How have we polluted you?’ By saying that the Lord’s table may be despised. When you offer blind animals in sacrifice, is that not evil? And when you offer those that are lame or sick, is that not evil? Present that to your governor; will he accept you or show you favor? says the Lord of hosts” (Malachi 1:6-8). God deserved and demanded the best, but they gave Him the blind, lame and sick. He was not pleased, nor is He pleased when we offer anything less than our best today.
What a difference it would make if we resolved each day to do our best in prayer, in worship, and in service to our Lord!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Day of Worship
The Seventh Day Adventists, and a few others, argue that the day on which Christians are to assemble for worship is Saturday, not Sunday. The proponents of Saturday, or Sabbath Day worship support their stance based entirely on the demand: “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8), and the subsequent practice of the Jews in both the Old and New Testaments.
A careful student of the Bible will quickly recognize that the Sabbath (Saturday) was the day of rest for the Jews. But one will not find a similar command for Gentiles. With the coming of Christ, His death, burial, and resurrection, and the establishment of His church, Christians met on the first day of the week (Sunday).
- It was on the first day of the week that Jesus rose from the dead (John 20:1).
- It was on the first day of the week that the church became a reality (Acts 2:1). Pentecost always fell on a Sunday.
- It was on the first day of the week that the early disciples came together to break bread (observe the Lord’s Supper – Acts 20:7).
- It was also on Sunday (the first day of the week) that the disciples were commanded to contribute financially to the work of the church (1 Corinthians 16:1-2).
Sunday is not the “Christian Sabbath,” it is the Lord’s Day.
Christians were never commanded to keep the Sabbath. Those who argue for the Sabbath Day (Saturday) as the day to be set aside to worship and rest are clinging to a law that Christ fulfilled (Matthew 5:17), Paul called weak (Romans 8:1-3), and Gentiles were never subject to.
We live under a new law today. It is the “perfect law of liberty” (James 1:25).
Jesus Christ is our great High Priest. The priesthood being changed, “there is made of necessity a change also of the law” (Hebrews 7:12).
We cannot appeal to the Old Testament to justify a practice intended only for the Jews, and found in a law which is no longer in force. The early disciples understood this! Some, today, do not! They are in error, and when they advocate Sabbath Day worship they are espousing false doctrine!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Woman’s Role in the Church
The apostle Paul wrote: “Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn anything, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church” (1 Corinthians 14:34,35). To Timothy he wrote: “Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence” (1 Timothy 2:11,12).
From the advent of Christianity it was the practice for men to lead in the assembly. Women’s roles were limited in the public assembly. They were prohibited from preaching, teaching and assuming other leadership roles when men were present. In recent years this practice has been called into question, and people have gone to great lengths to discredit the apostle and what the Scriptures say regarding this issue.
Some argue that Paul was a woman hater. They conclude that his remarks merely express his personal prejudice, and are not binding on the church. Such an attitude undermines the authority of the entire Bible. Using this approach, anything one finds personally objectionable can be ignored. This is how many people approach the word of God.
Others argue that the limitations placed on the woman’s role were cultural. They claim that although these limitations were enforced in Paul’s day, they are no longer binding on the church. There is nothing in the Bible which suggests that this is the case.
Paul also wrote: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). This passage is sometimes used to justify the practice of women preachers. The apostle does not set aside previous legislation in this text. He simply underscores the equality which exists in the church regardless of ethnic, social, or gender differences. God loves us equally. This does not, however, negate the fact that he has established different roles for us!
Radical feminists and liberal theologians would like to discard the Biblical prohibitions regarding a woman’s role in public worship. In many churches they have been successful. But, we are committed to respecting what the Bible teaches whether it is socially acceptable or not.
Women are not inferior to men, and men are not superior to women. But, God has ordained different roles for us, and we must respect them if we respect Him.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Different World
I know times are changing. Every generation sees change. Much of it is for the better. I prefer an automobile to a horse and buggy. I’d rather use a computer than a typewriter. There are any number of changes I find personally appealing and beneficial. I’m generally not opposed to change.
But, when it comes to the church, I’m uncomfortable with change. I’m not thinking of the changes that are incidental like the times we meet on the Lord’s Day, the order of our worship (two songs and a prayer, Lord’s Supper at the beginning or end of the assembly), or even how many songs we sing.
The changes that concern me relate to much more important matters like:
- The purpose of the church
- Respect for the Bible
- Commitment to the Lord
When I was young what folks looked for in a church home was an emphasis upon God. We came to worship and to be reminded of His love, mercy and grace. We wanted to hear His word taught and preached. We wanted to be able to worship according to the pattern of the New Testament. We desired fellowship with others who shared our commitment to Christ and the Bible. Those were the matters which mattered.
Today it is a different story. It is no longer enough to love God, teach truth, and worship faithfully. Folks are looking for much more in a church home. Worship need not be Biblical, but it must be contemporary, novel, and entertaining. Assemblies are more focused on what worshippers want, than what God desires. Correct me if I’m wrong, but shouldn’t worship be directed toward the One who is worshipped, and not toward the worshipper? I think Jesus said something about that (John 4:24).
It is no longer enough to live and teach the truth. People want to know what the church will do for their kids. They want the church to provide “day care,” recreation, and social interaction for their youngsters. But, was the purpose of the church to replace the home? Sure, the church can assist the home, but it cannot replace it. What we really should desire is a church where God’s plan for marriage and family is emphasized. No youth minister, Bible class teacher, or preacher can satisfy God’s plan for the home as effectively as godly parents who are willing to invest time, talent, and resources in their own offspring.
It is no longer enough for the church to meet on the Lord’s Day around the Lord’s Table to observe the Lord’s Supper. Now churches must also provide “fellowship activities” to fill the social calendars of their members. I like to eat as much as the next guy, and I even enjoy being with others in social settings, but when did that become the standard for selecting a church home?
It used to be that people expected to hear the Bible preached (2 Timothy 4:1-5). With many that is no longer the case. Sin, guilt, judgment, and hell are now off limits in many pulpits as folks ought not be made to feel uncomfortable in worship. They would rather be entertained than enlightened, laugh than learn, conform than be challenged to sacrifice and serve.
The world’s got it wrong!
We must be careful not to conform to the world’s standards (Romans 12:1, 2; 2 Corinthians 6:17; 1 John 2:15-17).
It may be a different world, but “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Divided Assemblies
A growing phenomenon in the modern religious scene is the notion that, in order to appeal to young people, churches must divide their worship assemblies into smaller groups, which cater the perceived needs of specific ages. Some “small groups ministries” involve the formation of a “children’s church,” which meets somewhere else, while the grownups are meeting in the main auditorium. Others subdivide the kids into special groups for teenagers, adolescents and smaller children, which have their own activities apart from the worship of the adults. Still, others divide the adults into smaller groups, which meet in the homes of other brethren, or in nursing homes, and other institutions. These divided worship assemblies take place mostly on Sunday nights, but they are also known to be part of the Sunday morning routine, in some congregations.
Many brethren raise nary an eyebrow to this practice. To them, it is “no big deal.” But, what does the Bible say about the worship assemblies of the church? Did the ancient church ever divide its worship assemblies along the lines of age? Is there any precedent in the New Testament for such a practice? Do divided worship assemblies really produce the results that people anticipate?
What’s wrong with having divided worship assemblies?
An Absence of Biblical Authority
The greatest problem with “children’s church” and “small groups ministries” is that there is no authority granted for such practices, in the New Testament. When the ancient church assembled for the purpose of worshipping God, all the members of the local congregations were expected to be present (Hebrews 10:25). Even when a worship service took place during the evening hours, there was never any indication that some were excluded from being part of the assembly (Acts 20:7). Sometimes, it is argued that such a practice is no different than when the church divides into smaller groups for the purpose of Bible study. Indeed, there are many examples of small groups of people meeting for the purpose of Bible study, in the New Testament (Acts 5:42). But, when the church assembled to worship God, everyone was supposed to be included (1 Corinthians 11:20-34). Divided worship assemblies do not just remove children from the main group of worshippers, but also adults who are overseeing the children. Instead of worshipping with their brethren, they are babysitting in another location. Some may argue that this practice is no different than what goes on, when a parent takes a crying baby into a nursery, or a training room. But, the difference is that, in most cases, they can still follow along with what is going on in the assembly of the saints. They do not have to exclude themselves and their children from worshipping God.
A Lack of Indented Results
Divided assemblies are not only wrong from a Scriptural standpoint, but they are also wrong from a practical standpoint. For many years, the Stop Nine Church of Christ, in Byesville, Ohio had a huge youth group, which existed virtually independently from the rest of the church. They had their own worship, their own Bible studies and their fellowship activities – separate from everyone else. After a while, the elders began to notice that most of the youth who came up through this system tended not to worship with the adults, when the time came for them to do so. After some checking, they found out that their young people felt out of place in the main assembly of the church, because they had always been excluded from it. They were accomplishing the opposite of their intended result!
When youth groups “skip church” to go to hockey games, or have super bowl parties, or play basketball, what lessons are they learning? When little children are excluded from the worship services of the church, so they can go somewhere else and play, what are we teaching them? It just stands to reason that, if we want our kids to value and appreciate worship, we must not exclude them from it. Children need to see that church is important to their parents, in order to learn that it is important to them. Don’t take your kids to church with the intention of getting rid of them for an hour. Take them to church with the intention of worshipping God with them!
Consider also the needs of adults in a local congregation. They are supposed to know and care for one another (Romans 12:10). How can they do so, if they are divided from one another on Sunday evenings? How are visitors at these assemblies supposed to meet the elders of the church, if they are away with one of the small groups? Indeed, how are the elders supposed to oversee a flock that is scattered in various locations?
Content by Russell Kline
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Questions and Answers 2012-09-30 – audio
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I. Question One – WHY DID GOD ALLOW CONCUBINES IN THE OLD TESTAMENT? WHY CAN’T WE HAVE MORE THAN ONE WIFE?
A. As to the first question… Why did God allow concubines?
1. God allows us to make our own decisions.
2. That does not mean that He approves of those decisions.
3. To my knowledge, there is no hint anywhere in the Scriptures that God approved of polygamy.
4. The only argument that could be made to suggest that God approved of polygamy would be that so many men whom are presented as being righteous had multiple wives and God never openly rebuked them.
a) That, however, does not prove that God approved of polygamy.
b) These men undoubtedly had other sin in their lives where there is no account of God openly rebuking them.
c) For example… Noah’s drunkenness after the flood.
5. Perhaps also, this is a sin that God “overlooked” because of the way that women were treated in that day. Acts 17:30. Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent.
B. Why can’t we have more than one wife today?
1. Matthew 19:4-6. And He answered and said to them, “Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”
a) Male and female. Not male and females.
b) Man shall be joined to his wife. Not, “Man shall be joined to his wives.”
c) Two shall become one flesh. Not three, four, five, 701 shall become one flesh.
2. Romans 7:3. So then if, while her husband lives, she marries another man, she will be called an adulteress; but if her husband dies, she is free from that law, so that she is no adulteress, though she has married another man.
a) This passage tells us that a woman who marries another man while her previous husband is still alive is to be called an adulteress.
b) Would not the same be true for the husband marrying another wife?
c) Absolutely!
II. Question Two – CAN WE VISIT OTHER CHURCHES OF CHRIST? IS THIS GOOD OR BAD?
A. There is nothing wrong with visiting other churches of Christ.
1. It can be a very good thing.
2. Some congregations are struggling and appreciate the encouragement.
3. It doesn’t have be a Sunday service.
a) Sings.
b) Gospel Meetings.
B. A few words of caution…
1. A “Church of Christ” sign out front does not necessarily mean that a congregation is sound.
a) Sometimes, when we are travelling, we may go visit a place because it calls itself a church of Christ but then be utterly shocked when we get into the service.
b) It is wise to do a little research about a congregation if you are not sure where they stand.
c) People do that all the time with us. I receive calls regularly from members of the church who are going to be coming to the area and are looking for a place to worship.
2. Don’t forget that your home congregation needs you too.
a) Some people just like to wander around to various congregations and never really settle down.
b) There are many advantages to having a home congregation.
(1) An eldership to look out for you. (Unfortunately, this is why some like to wander around. They don’t want an eldership looking out for them.)
(2) Stronger relationships with brethren who know you and know your needs.
(3) More opportunities for involvement.
c) Those who are constantly (weekly) visiting other congregations are missing out on many of the blessings of having a home congregation.
III. Question Three – IF SOMEONE COMES TO CHURCH BUT THEIR HEART ISN’T IN IT… WHAT TO DO TO CHANGE THIS ACTION.
A. What do we mean by “their heart isn’t in it” ???
1. Do we mean that their emotions are not stirred?
2. Do we mean that they don’t get anything out of worship?
3. Do we mean that they don’t want to be there?
4. I am going to assume, for this question, that it is a combination of all three of these things.
B. If the someone is yourself…
1. We are all human.
2. There are going to be days when it is all we can do to make it to services.
a) Sickness.
b) Emotional issues.
c) Etc.
d) During such times, we might not even remember the topic of the sermon or what songs were sung.
e) It is all we can do to be present.
3. But what if this is a weekly occurrence?
a) This has to be a lack of focus!
b) First of all – prepare for services by:
(1) Remember what you are about to do and why.
(a) You are about to worship (pay your respects to) your Creator, Sustainer, and Savior!
(b) You do this because you are grateful for what God has done for you.
(c) If we can’t get our heart into this then there is something wrong with us! Psalm 122:1. I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go into the house of the Lord.”
(d) (I see this every week from the pulpit.)
(2) Getting a good night’s sleep.
(3) Getting up early enough to get to services on time without rushing around frantically.
c) Focus in on the acts of worship.
(1) Listen to the songs we sing. Colossians 3:16. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
(2) Consider the death of Christ during the Communion service.
(3) Pay attention to the sermon which is God speaking to you through His word.
(4) Pray along with the one leading the prayer.
(5) Give cheerfully thinking of all that God has given to you.
4. Don’t quit coming! We begin to appreciate worship more as we mature.
C. If the someone is someone else…
1. We cannot make someone else actively participate in worship.
2. We cannot make someone else appreciate what Jesus did for them.
3. What we can do:
a) If we are talking about our children…
(1) Educate them by continuing to bring them to services.
(2) Teach them at home.
(3) Show them that we love the Lord.
(4) If your child sees you missing worship for just any reason, what are they going to think about the importance of worship?
b) If we are talking about a spouse…
(1) Again, try to help them realize the importance and purpose of worship.
(2) Set the right example. 1 Peter 3:1-2. Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear.
c) If we are talking about anyone else. – Same as above.
IV. WHAT IS THE “JIHAD?” WHO IS ALLAH?
A. Both of these terms are related to the religion of Islam.
1. Islam – to surrender to the will of Allah.
2. Muslim – One who surrenders.
B. Allah.
1. It is an Arabic word that means “the God.”
2. Muslims claim that this is the God of the Bible.
3. However, their view of Allah and the God of the Bible are very different.
a) They don’t view God as a Father. Yet Jesus did. Matthew 6:9. In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.
b) There is no grace in Islam. Salvation is solely by works. Ephesians 2:8-9. For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.
c) They believe that God is arbitrary and causes both good and evil. “Allah leads astray whom he pleases and guides whom he pleases and no one knows the host of the Lord save himself. And every man’s destiny have we fastened upon his neck.”
C. Jihad.
1. The most basic definition is – “struggle.”
2. Muslims believe in three types of Jihad.
a) The believer’s internal struggle to serve Allah.
b) The struggle to build a good Muslim society.
c) Holy War – the struggle to defend Islam, with force if necessary.
3. Muslims argue that the Koran only authorizes Holy War in a defensive fashion.
4. Unfortunately, some Muslims see the traditions of the West and Christianity as a clear threat to Islam and consider any attack they make to be defensive in nature.
5. Surah 9:29. And Fight those who have not faith in God, nor in the Hereafter, and (who) forbid not what God and His Prophet have forbidden and (who) are not committed to the religion of truth, of those who have been brought the Book, until they pay tribute by hand, and they are the low.
V. WHO WAS THE OLDEST PERSON IN THE BIBLE?
A. Methuselah.
B. Genesis 5:27. So all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred and sixty-nine years; and he died.
Delivered on: September 30, 2012. Streetsboro.
Content by Ralph Price
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Order
Concerning the worship of the church, the apostle Paul has written, “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40).
That is why, in the churches of Christ, the worship we offer our Heavenly Father is purposely designed to be neither ritualistic, nor emotionalistic. Our objective is to worship God “in spirit and in truth,” according to the teachings of the Bible (John 4:24).
We just do what the Word of God authorizes us to do in a way that is spiritual, reverent and orderly (Colossians 3:17).
Come visit us and see what orderly worship is all about.
Content by Russell Kline
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What is Worship?
All of life is not worship.
In the modern era of religious pluralism, when anything that is offered to God with a modicum of sincerity is considered worship, many are left scratching their heads and wondering what worship really is. Some have come to the conclusion that all of life is worship and that we reverence God every time we put on our socks, or wash the dishes, or feed the cat. If people would just read the Bible, they could tell that all of life is not worship. Abraham understood this to be the case and expressed his understanding in Genesis 22:5. Worship is something that human beings do purposefully and deliberately. But, even this realization still begs the question: “What is worship?”
“Worship” in the Christian Age.
Gospel preachers of the Restoration Movement have long preached about the so-called “five acts” of worship. Like the “five steps” in the gospel plan of salvation, the five acts of worship are entirely derived from the New Testament. While they may not appear in any one passage, as a neatly compiled list, they are no less detectable, when Scripture is compared with Scripture. There is no particular order in which five acts must be done, but they all must be done, in order to constitute “worship” in the Christian Age (John 4:23-24).
The church is commanded to sing
We know that singing, for example, is one of the five acts of worship. We know this, because the church is commanded to sing in passages like Ephesians 5:19 and Colossians 3:16. We know that this singing is part of our worship because of passages like 1 Corinthians 14:15 and Hebrews 2:12. Furthermore, we know that this singing is to be done without accompaniment of mechanical instruments of music, because none of the passages that mention singing in the New Testament authorize us to do anything more or less than sing.
Prayer is mentioned as part of worship.
Also, we know that prayer is one of the five acts of worship. Christians are commanded to “pray without ceasing,” in 1 Thessalonians 5:17. Prayer is mentioned as part of worship in passages like 1 Corinthians 14:15. Passages like Matthew 6:5-15 teach how we ought to pray, both in public and in private.
Disciples came together and partook of the Lord’s Supper.
Additionally, we know that observance of the Lord’s Supper is one of the five acts of worship. When Jesus instituted this memorial feast, He said, “this do, in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19b). In 1 Corinthians 11:26, Paul wrote, “For as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord’s death till he come.” Acts 20:7 shows us that, on the first day of every week, the disciples came together and partook of the Lord’s Supper, as they worshipped (Cf. 1 Corinthians 11:20-21).
Giving of our means is worship.
Furthermore, we know that giving of our means is one of the five acts of worship. Ancient Christians were taught to give of their means on the first day of every week, when the church was assembled for worship (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). Ancient Christians did not give “tithes” of their income, but rather they were taught to give an offering of their own free will, which might even exceed ten percent (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
Preaching was part of the worship services of the ancient church.
Finally, we know that preaching is one of the five acts of worship. Preaching was part of the worship services of the ancient church (Acts 20:7). Preaching is the method that God has chosen to disseminate His message to the whole world (1 Corinthians 1:21). Whether one simply reads the Scriptures aloud, or expounds upon their meaning, it is essential that the Word of the Lord be heard in the congregation of His people.
The “Five Acts” of Worship:
1. Singing (Ephesians 5:19)
2. Prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
3. Communion (Acts 20:7)
4. Giving (1 Corinthians 16:1,2)
5. Preaching (1 Corinthians 1:21)
On the first day of the week (Sunday).
Apart from the five acts of worship, it is equally important for us to understand that we may worship God only on the first day of the week (Sunday). According to Acts 20:7, this was the day when the ancient church came together for just that purpose. The Bible does not authorize us to worship God on any other day. The Bible does authorize us to sing (James 5:13), pray (1 Thessalonians 5:17), give (Galalatians 6:10) and preach (2 Timothy 4:2) on other days of the week, but the only day in which we may rightly do all of the five acts of worship together is the “Lord’s day” (Revelation 1:10).
God sets the standard.
Let there be no confusion about worship in anyone’s mind. Worship is a special event, in the lives of all of God’s children. Worship is not whatever we might imagine it to be. It is what God demands of us, and it is only right that He should set the standard of what is and is not Scriptural worship.
Content by Russell Kline
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Questions and Answers 2010-06-27
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I. Question One – “Is Christianity a religion or a relationship? Or both?”
“A lot of my friends have been saying that Christianity is just a relationship with God. I understand that you need to go through the steps of salvation to be saved but they think you just need to pray, read the Bible, etc. So what I’m really asking is, “Is Christianity a religion or a relationship? Or both?”
A. First, we need to stress that everyone is in a relationship with God whether they realize it or not.
1. Matthew 12:30. He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad.
2. One is either with God or against God. There is no middle ground.
3. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” John 14:15.
4. Jesus said…
a) John 8:24. Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.”
b) Luke 13:3. I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.
c) Matthew 10:32. “Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven.
d) Mark 16:16. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.
5. If we don’t believe or practice these things which Jesus commanded, do we love him? According to Jesus, we do not!
6. So is Christianity a relationship… I would say that it is a term that describes one’s relationship with God. If one is a Christian, then that one is in a RIGHT relationship with God.
B. Is Christianity a religion?
1. Religion – the belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power.
2. In the Bible, the word for “religion” as applied to Christianity is threskeia.
a) This word focuses on the external aspect of one’s faith.
b) How one expresses his faith.
c) James 1:26-27. If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.
3. So, yes, Christianity is a religion.
a) It is a belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power.
b) It is an outward expression of that belief in the way we behave.
II. Question Two – “Why did God make the earth?”
A. Wow! What a question!
B. The easiest answer is that God made the earth for us to live on! But I think the one who asked the question maybe wanted to know why God made Us.
C. Why did God make us?
1. Some things we can not know for sure.
2. We do know this. God is love. 1 John 4:8. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.
a) Everything that God does issues forth from His love.
b) Therefore, I believe that God loved the idea of us.
c) God loved us before He created us.
d) Much like a man and a woman love the idea of having a child.
(1) Even before that child is conceived, they love the idea of it.
(2) Therefore, they decide to bring a child into existence.
e) Remember that God is described as our Father.
III. Question Three – “Why did God give us the Bible?”
A. God gave us the Bible as a guide. Psalm 119:105.
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
B. We can’t read God’s mind, so he had to give us a book to tell us what He wants us to know. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10.
But as it is written: “ Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God.
C. The Bible gives us everything we need to be pleasing to God.
1. 2 Peter 1:3. As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue.
2. 2 Timothy 3:16-17. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
IV. Question Four – “What constitutes worship?”
“Do we need to include the five acts that we do on Sunday for it to be true worship?”
A. The most basic definition of the word “worship” is “to show reverence and respect toward another.”
B. As the question states, God has authorized five ways in which we are to worship Him.
1. Singing. Ephesians 5:19.
2. Praying. 1 Thessalonians 5:21.
3. Bible Study. Acts 20:7.
4. The Lord’s Supper. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26.
5. Giving as we have been prospered. 1 Corinthians 16:1-2.
C. By example, we know that Christians gathered together on the first day of the week to worship. Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:18; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2.
D. However, only two of the acts of worship are LIMITED to the first day of the week.
1. Those two are giving and the Lord’s Supper.
2. We have plenty of examples of singing, praying, and Bible study being performed at other times.
a) Acts 16:25. But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.
b) 1 Thessalonians 5:17. Pray without ceasing.
E. No, I do not believe that all five acts of worship must be present for one to be worshiping God.
1. On Wednesday evenings when we gather together, study, sing, and pray, we are worshiping God.
2. However, on the first day of the week, we need to have all five acts of worship present to be pleasing to God.
V. Question Five – “A wife is to keep silent in church but ask her husband. If a husband understands or tells her something that is not correct is she lost because of what her husband tells her?”
A. The relevant passage is 1 Corinthians 14:26-35.
How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret. But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God. Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge. But if anything is revealed to another who sits by, let the first keep silent. For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged. And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints. Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to speak in church.
1. This passage teaches that a woman is to keep completely silent in the assembly.
2. She is not to utter a sound.
3. This would mean that it would be wrong for a woman to sing.
4. Furthermore, what if a woman did not have a husband? She would have no one to ask her questions!
5. We must ask, “Does is passage apply to us today?”
B. I have never attended an assembly like the one mentioned in the above passage.
1. I have never attended an assembly when someone spoke in a language they had never studied.
2. I have never observed on in the process of receiving a revelation.
3. I have never been to a service where there had to be an interpreter present who had the gift of interpretation.
4. Three classes of people are told to keep silent in this passage:
a) One who spoke in another tongue if there was not interpreter present.
b) A prophet who is speaking must be silent when another receives a revelation.
c) Women must keep silent.
5. Silent – sigao. To keep silent. To hold one’s peace.
6. This was an assembly different from any we will come across today.
7. These women who were told to ask their husbands questions at home would have been asking prophets! There was no need for them to worry about getting bad information.
C. Today, women are not commanded to be completely silent but to learn in submission. 1 Timothy 2:11.
Let a woman learn in silence with all submission.
1. “Silence” – hesuchia. Quietness. Tranquility arising from within. Causing no disturbance to others. Meek.
2. Does not mean that they are not to utter a sound.
3. A woman is not forbidden to ask a question as long as she is not disrupting the service or taking control of the service in doing so.
4. Furthermore, a woman today has the Bible available to her. Not true for those to whom Paul was writing in 1 Corinthians 14.
VI. Question Six – “what verse specifically tells the wife to love her husband and what Greek word is used?”
“In the Father’s Day sermon you closed saying wives are to respect and love their husbands. Other than the general commands for Christians to agape one another, what verse specifically tells the wife to love her husband and what Greek word is used?”
A. The verse I was thinking of was Titus 2:3-4.
The older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— 4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children…
B. The Greek word that is used is philandros.
1. Comes from the Greek word for love, phileo. Which means tender affection.
2. And from Andros which means man or husband (implied when “wife” is used in context).
VII. Question Seven – “Cursing is wrong. What about euphemisms?”
“Cursing is wrong. What about phrases that most of us use like, “Oh shoot,” “Son of a gun,” “Holy cow,” etc. How can these be ok when you are meaning the same thing just substituting another word?”
A. You have a good question.
B. These phrases are called “euphemisms.”
1. Euphemism – a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt.
2. If you look up the word “shoot” you will see that it is a euphemism for a certain four letter word that also starts with “sh.”
a) Now, the word “shoot” is not wrong when you are using it in any other way.
b) But if you are saying it as a substitute for that other “s” word, then it is wrong.
3. Look up “heck.”
4. Look up “son of a gun.”
5. “Golly”
6. “Darn”
7. “Freakin” (I won’t even say it.)
8. All of these words are merely substitutes for more harsh words.
C. As Christians, we ought to refrain from using euphemisms.
VIII. “Is it wrong for a Christian family to put up a nativity scene at Christmas?”
A. In my mind, the one thing that sets the church of Christ apart from false churches is it’s view of the authority of the Scriptures.
1. Colossians 3:17. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
2. We understand that we must have authority for those things we practice.
3. We understand that the silence of the Scriptures does not authorize.
B. The Bible nowhere authorizes Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus as a special holiday.
1. How can we claim to respect the authority of the Scriptures as a church but then promote a religious holiday that is not authorized?
2. This does not mean that we cannot celebrate Christmas as a simple national holiday.
3. But to attach religious significance to it is unauthorized.
C. Some claim to find authority in Romans 14:5-6.
One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord; and he who does not observe the day, to the Lord he does not observe it.
1. It seems a stretch to me to apply this passage to Christmas.
2. Nevertheless, some feel that this passage authorizes them to pick a day to celebrate Jesus’ birth as long as they don’t bind it on other people.
D. Is it wrong to set up a nativity scene?
1. At the very best, I believe it is very unwise.
2. At the worst, it could be sin for promoting an unscriptural holiday.
Content by Ralph Price
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Questions and Answers 2010-05-30 – audio
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I. Question One – Please discuss the withholding of physical intimacy in a marriage.
A. Sometimes, husbands or wives will withhold themselves from their spouse:
1. Because they are not getting along.
2. Because they want to punish their spouse.
B. 1 Corinthians 7:1-5.
Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
C. Several things are made clear from this passage:
1. In order to avoid sexual immorality in a marriage, the husband is not to withhold himself from his wife and the wife is not to withhold herself from her husband.
2. God created us with certain desires which need to be fulfilled. If a husband or wife does not get that need fulfilled by their spouse, the temptation is always there to get it fulfilled in another way.
3. Verse 5 very plainly states that husband and wife are not to deprive one another. To do so is sin!
4. The only exception to this is if the withholding is done…
a) By mutual consent.
b) And the intervening time is filled with fasting and prayer.
II. Question Two – “The Bible tells us to come together on the first day of the week, so we meet on Sunday morning. Why does the church of Christ meet on Sunday night and Wednesday night too? Where did this come from or start?”
A. While we are told to meet on the first day of the week, we must also realize that we certainly are not limited to meeting only once a week.
B. When we look at the practice of the New Testament church, we see that they met daily.
1. Acts 2:46-47. So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.
2. Verse 47 makes it clear that “continuing daily” involved praising God and evidently teaching because the Lord was adding to the church daily.
3. While they may not have had a full fledged worship service every day, it is clear that they met and worked every day.
4. Wednesday night is simply a time to get together for Bible study and mutual edification.
C. Authority for Wednesday and two services on Sunday is also implied in the charge to elders.
1. Acts 20:28. Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.
2. 1 Peter 5:2. Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly;
3. In both of these passages, elders are told to “shepherd” or “feed” the flock.
a) The food is the word of God.
(1) 1 Peter 2:2. As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.
(2) Hebrews 5:12-14. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
b) In order to feed the flock, the elders have set aside certain times to gather together for Bible study.
c) We are obligated to submit to them. Hebrews 13:17. Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.
III. Question Three – “When was Sunday evening worship established in the church?”
A. Put simply, it was established in the first century.
B. Acts 20:7.
Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight.
C. Evidence seems to suggest that the first century church met in the evenings more often than not.
IV. Question Four – “At what age group should a woman not be allowed to teach in the church? How do you justify the cut-off age scripturally?”
A. Our key passage is 1 Timothy 2:12.
And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence.
B. A woman is not to teach over a man.
1. So the question is, “When does a boy change into a man?”
2. The Bible really doesn’t give us a specific age.
3. Therefore, it is left up to us (or the eldership if there is one) to decide on a policy.
C. One view is that after adolescence, a boy becomes a man.
1. This is more or less the policy followed by our eldership here (at Streetsboro).
2. We try to have men always teach the classes from junior high on up.
3. We have never had a woman teach any ages older than junior high unless the class was split into boys and girls and a woman would teach the girls.
4. Junior High is about right for when a boy enters puberty and begins to become a man physically.
5. Of course, the Jews counted the age of 12 to be when a boy became a man. This coincides with Junior High age.
V. Question Five – “Are members of denominational churches no better off spiritually than if they were not worshipping at all?”
A. Members of a denomination may have a better quality of life than someone who does not worship at all.
B. But in terms of salvation, we know that one must:
1. Hear, believe, confess, repent, and be baptized.
2. If a person is a member of a church that teaches otherwise, then how could they be better off?
3. We must also worship according to truth. John 4:24.
C. Simply being religious will not be enough to get one to heaven.
1. Matthew 7:21-23. “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’
2. Matthew 15:7-9. Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying: ‘ These people draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’”
D. In some ways, people in man-made church are worse off because they have been convinced that they are alright.
VI. Question Six – “Why do we bow our heads when we pray?”
A. The Bible mentions several different postures in prayer.
1. Standing and kneeling.
2. While standing:
a) Arms upraised – 1 Kings 8:22
b) Head bowed – Luke 18:13
3. While kneeling:
a) Arms raised – 1 Kings 8:54
b) Prostrate – Matthew 26:39
B. Why do we often choose to say, “Please bow as we pray.”???
1. Luke 18:10-14.
“Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
2. The tax collector had a humble attitude and would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven.
3. Bowing our heads is a way of showing submission, humility, and respect.
VII. Question Seven – “Outside of worship services, can a Christian listen to contemporary Christian music with instruments?”
A. Philippians 2:12.
Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
B. We know that instrumental music is wrong in a worship service.
C. Therefore, the question is really, “What constitutes worship?”
D. There are varying opinions:
1. Some say, “When I am listening to music on the radio, I am not worshipping. It is only for entertainment. Therefore, it isn’t wrong.”
2. On the other hand some feel, “If I am listening to a spiritual song that gets me thinking about God and even praising God, then, by definition, I am worshipping.”
E. I choose not to listen to spiritual songs that have instrumental accompaniment.
F. Others see nothing wrong with it.
G. One thing is sure… Romans 14:22-24.
Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves. But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin.
H. This is not an issue where we should draw lines of fellowship.
VIII. Question Eight – “Is there any evidence in the Bible to suggest that it would be wrong to go to the beach and for a man to wear only swimming trunks and a woman to wear a two-piece swimsuit?”
A. This is a question about modesty.
B. 1 Timothy 2:9-10.
In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.
1. Why is the command given to women?
2. Because men are affected a lot more by what women wear.
3. Men are stimulated visually.
4. Paul says that women are to dress in modest apparel.
a) So he is talking about what we wear.
b) We all know that it is wrong to go naked. Paul is not talking about that.
c) So think of it this way, if a two piece bathing suit is not immodest, what would be?
d) You can’t make it any more immodest. The next step is nudity.
e) If a 2 piece bathing suit is not immodest then nothing is.
C. What about men wearing only swimming trunks?
1. I am assuming we are talking about loose fitting, long shorts.
2. So the question is, “Is it wrong for a man to go shirtless?”
3. Definitely, the safest thing would be for a man to wear a shirt in the presence of women.
4. We need to think about the example we are setting.
5. “What’s good for the goose is good for the gander.”
6. However, some would say that their going shirtless would not invoke lust on the part of any woman. Therefore, it is not wrong.
7. In my mind, this is an area where we all have to make a decision for ourselves and live with it.
IX. Question Nine – “What would Jesus or God think of what’s going on now?”
A. Hebrews 13:8.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
B. God still hates sin.
C. God still loves the sinner.
D. God still wants all men to be saved. 1 Timothy 2:4.
Who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
E. Perhaps, this question is asking, “Are things worse today then they have ever been?”
1. Certainly, sin is rampant and immorality is common.
2. However, I don’t think we’ve reached the conditions that existed at the time of the flood. Genesis 6:5. Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
Content by Ralph Price
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A Need to Worship
Worship was an important part of first century Christianity
The Lord’s Day (Sunday) was a special time of remembrance and celebration. Christians came together to partake of the Lord’s Supper as a memorial to the broken body and shed blood of Christ the Lord (1 Corinthians 11:23-29; Acts 20:7). They worshiped a living Lord, not a dead Savior. Jesus had resurrected, and there was cause for celebration. In the words of Luke, historian of the early church: “They continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in the breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42).
Important Benefits
Not everyone understood the importance of their weekly gatherings or the benefits to be derived from them. The writer of Hebrews urged his readers to be faithful in this matter. He admonished: “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:22-25).
Worship is neither boring nor useless
I frequently talk to people who express a strong distaste for “going to church.” They claim to be as religious as the next guy, but have little use for boring religious services. Personal experience, as well as Scripture, has taught me that worship is neither boring nor useless. I have never left a service without gaining something of benefit. We need the fellowship, encouragement and instruction that the worship setting provides. It is a grave mistake to forsake the assembly of the saints. In reality, it is sinful to do so!
The Bible offers much
Don’t be mislead by those who suggest that worship is unimportant or unnecessary. The Bible offers a much different view of worship and its importance. If you come to the assembly with an earnest desire to worship and learn, you will not leave disappointed. The Lord knew what He was doing when He summoned His church to faithful worship, and we need to hear and heed His summons.
–Roger
JANUARY 15, 2012
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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No Problem with God, Just Religion
TIME, in its November 21, 2011 edition, asked ten questions of Sting (born Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner), the famous English musician, singer songwriter, activist, actor and philanthropist.
Among them was this query: “When asked your religion, you write “devout musician.” Does that mean you pray to Angus Young?”
Sting replied: “It’s not a frivolous answer. I’m essentially agnostic. I don’t have a problem with God. I have a problem with religion. I’ve chosen to live my life without the certainties of religious faith. I think they’re dangerous. Music is something that gives my life value and spiritual solace.”
Men are free moral agents
Sting has a right to live his life as he sees fit. God has never forced Himself on anyone. No one has ever been compelled to be a believer. What I found interesting in his response is how many times I’ve heard similar things from others.
Agnostics say that we cannot know if God exists
We must accept Him on faith, and that means for many “firm belief in something for which there is no proof.” Ambrose Bierce’s definition comes to mind. He argued that faith was “belief without evidence in what is told by one who speaks without knowledge of things without parallel.” Those who accept this premise won’t dismiss God outright, but they also won’t let Him intrude into their lives.
No problem with God, just religion
Like a lot of other folks, Sting has no real problem with God, but he does have a problem with religion. That is the same thinking that causes a man to reject the church and worship on the Lord’s Day because he says he can commune with God just as intimately on the golf course, the river, or in the great outdoors. It also explains why so many who claim to be believers never involve themselves with organized religion.
Finding spiritual solace?
Sting finds value and spiritual solace in music. Others find it in yoga, meditation, the contemplation of nature, or some other outlet. It is impossible to really get away from the innately human need for life to have a spiritual dimension. Men yearn for something higher, better, and eternal. Christianity satisfies that longing better than anything else.
We can know God is real
In response to Sting, and all who share his skepticism, I would argue that we can know that God is real based on abundant and unassailable evidence (1 Peter 3:15). Further, I would insist that there is something in our collective worship which we will not find on the golf course, the lake, or simply sharing in the beauty of nature (Hebrews 10:22-25).
No substitute
There is no substitute for the assembly of the saints to draw us nearer to God, to encourage us to faithfulness, and to stir us to greater love and good works.
–Roger
JANUARY 8, 2012
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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John 04:20-26 The Meaning of Worship
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Text: John 4:20-26
Introduction
To worship is:
- To quicken the conscience by the holiness of God.
- To feed the mind with the truth of God.
- To purge the imagination with the beauty of God.
- To open the heart to the love of God.
- To devote the will to the purpose of God.
I. It’s important for us to understand what the Bible means when “worship” is used.
II. Worship is a fundamental Bible concept and is absolutely essential to a right relationship with God.
A. In the O.T., worship meant “to bow down, to bow down before God, to worship, to pay adoration, even without prostration.”
B. In the N.T., worship means “to kiss toward, an act of homage or reverence.”
III. Worship is a very important part of our existence – Ecclesiastes 12:13
A. Gordon Dahl, “Most middle class Americans tend to worship their work, to work at their play, and to play at their worship. As a result, their meanings and values are distorted. Their relationships disintegrate faster than they can keep them in repair and their lifestyles resemble a cast of characters in search of a plot.”
IV. This evening we will focus upon the Art of Worship, the Attitude of Worship and the Acts of worship.
Body
I. THE ART OF WORSHIP.
A. Worshiping God is an art.
1. Webster says worship is, “Skill acquired by experience, studying, or observation.”
2. Worship demands skill. Skill comes from study and experience – John 4:24
B. Worshiping God requires knowledge.
1. We must know the truth to properly worship God – John 4:24
a. The truth came unto men by Jesus Christ John 1:17; 14:6
b. The truth is found in God’s word – John 8:32; 17:17
c. The truth was given by Spirit-guided men.
(1) They orally proclaimed the truth – John 16:13
(2) They wrote the truth – 1 Corinthians 14:37
2. We must know God to properly worship Him – John 4:24; Hebrews 8:11
a. We know God through nature – Romans 1:20
b. We know God through revelation – Acts 17:23
c. We know God through Jesus Christ – John 1:18
3. We must have biblical knowledge or our worship will be rejected.
a. Some have worshiped in vain – Matthew 15:8-9
b. Some have been guilty of will-worship – Colossians 2:23
c. Some have been in ignorance – Acts 17:23
C. Worshiping God properly is rewarding.
1. Worship is for God’s glory – Psalm 29:2
2. Worship is for man’s good – Hebrews 10:19-20
a. It allows us to draw near to God – Hebrews 10:22
b. It reinforces faith – Hebrews 10:23
(1) Worship reminds us of God’s reality.
(2) Worship reminds us of God’s power.
c. It provokes Christian living – Hebrews 10:24-25
d. It protects our souls – Hebrews 10:26-31
(1) We must not be sinners; we must be worshipers.
II. THE ATTITUDE OF WORSHIP.
A. We must worship God rationally and sincerely.
1. There is a difference between form and faith.
a. The Pharisees were strong advocates of tradition.
b. But worship must be of faith – Romans 10:17
2. There is a difference between show and sincerity.
a. Some want to be seen of men.
(1) In giving – Matthew 6
(2) In praying – Matthew 6
b. We must come to worship with sincere hearts – Psalm 51:16-17
(1) To the Pharisees, worship was a ritualistic ceremony.
3. There is a difference between hypocrisy and holiness.
a. Jesus called some worshipers “hypocrites” – Matthew 15:7
(1) The word “hypocrite” originally meant a play actor.
b. God wants holy worshipers who are genuine – 1 Chronicles 16:29
B. We must worship God spiritually.
1. From Isaiah 6, we see 4 things needed for spiritual worship.
a. An insight into God’s majesty – Isaiah 6:1-4
(1) Song – Holy, Holy, Holy.
b. An awareness of the sinfulness of man – Isaiah 6:5
c. A sense of cleansing – Isaiah 6:6-7
d. A preparation for service – Isaiah 6:8-10
(1) There is a correlation in worship and service.
C. We must worship God enthusiastically.
1. The Bible teaches God’s people to:
a. Go gladly – Psalm 122:1
b. Worship reverently – Psalm 95:6
c. Pray earnestly – James 5:16
d. Sing joyfully – Psalm 95:1-2
e. Give freely – Matthew 10:8
f. Listen attentively – James 1:19
g. Act unitedly – Psalm 133:1
h. Live peacefully – Numbers 6:24-26
i. Do dutifully – James 1:22
III. THE ACTS OF WORSHIP.
A. Worship consists of acts – Matthew 2:1-2
1. A concise definition of worship is found in a footnote to Matthew 2:1-2
a. “The Greek word denotes an act of reverence whether paid to a creature or to the Creator.”
b. Worship is not just a feeling, mood, or attitude.
c. Worship has always been an overt act from the heart – Genesis 22:5; 2 Samuel 12:20; Acts 24:11
B. Worship on the Lord’s day consists of 5 acts of worship.
1. Singing is worship to God – Ephesians5:19
2. Praying is worship to God – Acts 2:42; John 14:13-14
3. Giving is worship to God – 1 Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7
4. Lord’s Supper is worship to God – Matthew 26:26-28; Acts 20:7
5. Preaching or teaching is worship to God – 2 Timothy 4:1-4
C. Worship is on the Lord’s Day, and not Saturday.
1. The purpose of the Sabbath has been accomplished.
2. The Law of the Sabbath has been abolished.
3. The power of the Lord’s Day has arrived.
a. Christ was raised from the dead.
b. Christ appeared to His apostles.
c. Holy Spirit came.
d. Church began.
e. Disciples gave.
f. Church came together to break bread.
Conclusion
I. We have explored the art, the attitude, and the acts of worship.
A. We have seen that we need to offer acceptable worship.
II. To offer acceptable worship, we need to be acceptable worshipers.
A. Become a Christian – Psalm 95:6-7
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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