The Eastside Church of Christ is pleased to announce our Fall Gospel Meeting.
The speaker will be James DeVoll from Satler Texas.
September 18-21
Sunday 9:45am
Sunday 10:45am
Sunday 5:00pm
Monday 7:30pm
Tuesday 7:30pm
Wednesday 7:00pm
Everyone welcome.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Monday, August 8, 2011
Return to God
So many people have never come to God and many have left God. God is patient towards all, but one day His patience will wear thin, and God will execute judgment upon all. We read in Joel, chapter two in verse 12-13: "Yet even now, declares the LORD, Return to Me with all your heart, and with fasting, weeping, and mourning; and rend your heart and not your garments. Now return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in lovingkindness, and relenting of evil."
God wants what He has always wanted. Our whole heart. We are to love the Lord our God with all our heart, and with all our soul, and our might, as Moses commanded them in Deuteronomy 6:5.
When we learn we have caused harm to the cause of Christ, or have done things that are against God's will, we should repent, and show the signs of repentance.
Our God is compassionate and full of grace. His patience is our salvation if we truly repent before we die.
God will not tolerate evil, and has given us all ample time to correct our behavior. If you have not done so, please consider the consequences of failing to return to the Lord your God.
God wants what He has always wanted. Our whole heart. We are to love the Lord our God with all our heart, and with all our soul, and our might, as Moses commanded them in Deuteronomy 6:5.
When we learn we have caused harm to the cause of Christ, or have done things that are against God's will, we should repent, and show the signs of repentance.
Our God is compassionate and full of grace. His patience is our salvation if we truly repent before we die.
God will not tolerate evil, and has given us all ample time to correct our behavior. If you have not done so, please consider the consequences of failing to return to the Lord your God.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
The Word Of God Stands Forever
We read in Isaiah 40:8 "The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever."
The word of God is the Bible. It is timeless in its application and relevance. Not only can we turn to the pages of scripture for comfort in times of trouble, we can learn about the righteousness of God, and what it takes for us to be considered righteous.
The Bible tells us about a relationship we have with God and with fellow believers in God's faith. The word of God is just as relevant today as it was when it was written. Many people teach otherwise, and some even go so far as to say that the Bible is obsolete. That will never happen.
The Bible explains our purpose in life and also what God expects from us. There is encouragement from the scriptures that if we will do what God asks us to do, He will protect our souls.
Let us learn to be faithful to God by learning His commands found written in His word.
The word of God is the Bible. It is timeless in its application and relevance. Not only can we turn to the pages of scripture for comfort in times of trouble, we can learn about the righteousness of God, and what it takes for us to be considered righteous.
The Bible tells us about a relationship we have with God and with fellow believers in God's faith. The word of God is just as relevant today as it was when it was written. Many people teach otherwise, and some even go so far as to say that the Bible is obsolete. That will never happen.
The Bible explains our purpose in life and also what God expects from us. There is encouragement from the scriptures that if we will do what God asks us to do, He will protect our souls.
Let us learn to be faithful to God by learning His commands found written in His word.
Monday, June 13, 2011
What Is There Left To Do?
The prophet Micah pictures a grim picture of his society and culture in chapter seven. The utter devastation that he pictures is horrible, and it was all preventable had the people served the Lord.
Notice that Micah says there is no fruit in the land. Drought and pestilence have decimated the landscape.
There is no morality in the land, as the godly seem to have perished from the face of the earth. No upright people in the land and seems like everyone is out to beat everyone else.
The people have learned evil so well they do it with both hands. It takes a lot of practice to learn to switch hit in baseball. To throw effectively with either one hand or the other. To write so well with either the right or left hand that people cannot tell the difference. So it is that these people have practiced sin so long, that they can do it right or left handed (this is a figure of speech).
Bribes take place, and justice is perverted.
The leaders are out to get everyone else, and they make rules to benefit certain ones. Seems like we hear these same claims today in our political system.
Even the best of the people are like thorn bushes or briars.
They are not even watching out for themselves. Because if they ever posted a watchman, they would realize that an army is not coming, but it is already there. Just like our borders have been open for so long, that when we finally open our eyes, we will find our enemy among us and well prepared to wreak havoc in every part of the land. And people will begin to ask, what happened?
He speaks of a lack of trust among everyone. Every word is reported and leaked to the public. Tweets and e-mails are no longer private, but exposed to the world for all to see.
Even families do not treat each other as they should. There is contempt for the parents, and the children are a danger to the parents, and the worst enemy is in your own family. Domestic violence is rampant.
So what is there left to do?
Micah says the following: "But as for me, I will watch expectantly for the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation, My God will hear me." Micah 7:8
When all is said and done, all we can do is turn to the Lord and seek His guidance, protection, wisdom, and love.
Notice that Micah says there is no fruit in the land. Drought and pestilence have decimated the landscape.
There is no morality in the land, as the godly seem to have perished from the face of the earth. No upright people in the land and seems like everyone is out to beat everyone else.
The people have learned evil so well they do it with both hands. It takes a lot of practice to learn to switch hit in baseball. To throw effectively with either one hand or the other. To write so well with either the right or left hand that people cannot tell the difference. So it is that these people have practiced sin so long, that they can do it right or left handed (this is a figure of speech).
Bribes take place, and justice is perverted.
The leaders are out to get everyone else, and they make rules to benefit certain ones. Seems like we hear these same claims today in our political system.
Even the best of the people are like thorn bushes or briars.
They are not even watching out for themselves. Because if they ever posted a watchman, they would realize that an army is not coming, but it is already there. Just like our borders have been open for so long, that when we finally open our eyes, we will find our enemy among us and well prepared to wreak havoc in every part of the land. And people will begin to ask, what happened?
He speaks of a lack of trust among everyone. Every word is reported and leaked to the public. Tweets and e-mails are no longer private, but exposed to the world for all to see.
Even families do not treat each other as they should. There is contempt for the parents, and the children are a danger to the parents, and the worst enemy is in your own family. Domestic violence is rampant.
So what is there left to do?
Micah says the following: "But as for me, I will watch expectantly for the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation, My God will hear me." Micah 7:8
When all is said and done, all we can do is turn to the Lord and seek His guidance, protection, wisdom, and love.
Friday, June 10, 2011
My Dog Is So Dumb...
When the subject of man's best friend comes up, you either hear praise for the dog or stories of how dumb the dog is. The expression "you dumb dog" is part of our culture, and it is applied to a dog that does not behave as a proper dog should. A dog that barks at nothing is a dumb dog. A dog that does not bark when there are intruders is a dumb dog. A dog that acts like a cat (yeah, dogs learn by example too) is a dumb dog.
Why are we talking about dumb dogs? Well God used this phrase describing the watchmen He had set forth to protect Israel. In Isaiah 56:10-11, we read: "His watchmen are blind, all of them know nothing, all of them are dumb dogs unable to bark, dreamers, lying down, who love to slumber; And the dogs are greedy, they are not satisfied. And they are shepherds who have no understanding; They have all turned to their own way. Each one to his unjust gain, to the last one."
Notice the descriptions of these watchmen called dumb dogs.
Blind:
The context suggest that these watchmen are blind by choice. They choose NOT to see the truth of God's word. They choose NOT to do God's will. Some people cannot help being blind. But to choose blindness is very dumb.
Ignorance:
These choose to know nothing. We as Christians are commanded to grow in grace and knowledge (2 Peter 3:18). Acquiring knowledge of God makes us more informed on how to please Him. These people choose to remain ignorant of God's saving message, but they still want to enjoy the benefits. Knowledge of God is the greatest acquisition man has ever acquired, and many choose to stay ignorant.
Unable to bark:
We could turn this around to mean that when they should be barking, they are not. As Christians we are to be set for the defense of the gospel. We should be able to warn people that their souls are in danger. But these mentioned here are so dumb, that they have no idea that a warning needs to be sounded. Error may be right under their noses, but they do not know any better, or that what is being done is condemned by God.
Dreamers:
These people have grand ideas, and really think that God needs to get with the program. They think they can save the world, yet they do not even look or try to save themselves. These people will try any method and any means to acquire knowledge, but the one method they will not use is study the Bible. Now that is dumb.
Lying down:
Awake from your sleep. Folks, it is crunch time and we better be getting our battle gear on. We are running out of time, so we need to prepare. We need the preparation so that we can enter battle with the forces of evil. These people are so secure in themselves, that they do not feel the need to do any preparation at all. Satan is prowling about, but they just lay there, usually sleeping. Now, how dumb is that?
Love to slumber:
Consider the ant, thou sluggard... These people think that work will harm them in some way, yet science has proven that inactivity will kill faster than some diseases. We are not talking about a Saturday afternoon nap out in the hammock. We are talking those who choose to not do anything for themselves or their souls. That is also dumb.
Greedy:
Greed is associated with idolatry. Greed drives most of the world economy these days. Many are not satisfied to just do their job and enjoy life. They want more, and they want it now. They gamble with the hope of hitting the big one. They bet on just about anything imaginable. They jump onto get rich quick schemes, even knowing that it is probably a scam. Greed has to be at or near the top of any list of sins by rank or danger. A Christian learns to be content in all his/her situations. Greed destroys contentment. Greed is dumb.
Not Satisfied:
Just like the grave, there is never enough. Most people who gamble and hit the big one, will usually turn around and spend it all trying to get a bigger one. It is the excitement that you can profit that turns people on. It is no different than not doing your job, but expecting to be paid for your time. Theft is wrong in any form. The scriptures mention the wicked who are never satisfied; in fact, it speaks of those who weary themselves doing what they should, but always find the strength to practice their wickedness. And who do we know who is never satisfied about anything? Our boss? Our spouse? Don't we consider that to be dumb?
No understanding:
At least the type of understanding that should get them to start serving God properly. Wisdom and understanding are crucial elements in our learning about God, but these people choose the wrong understanding. The scripture tells us to trust in the Lord and lean not on thine own understanding.
Turned their own way:
Of course, this speaks to everyone who chooses a way other than the Lord's way. Jesus said He was the way, but people make their own way. By doing so, they make their own rules, their own laws, and do nothing more than ease their own conscience. That has to be the dumbest things of all.
The sad thing is that we all know people who fit these descriptions, and there seems to be more of them around us all the time.
Take warning, and avoid the dumb dogs.
By Carey Scott
When the subject of man's best friend comes up, you either hear praise for the dog or stories of how dumb the dog is. The expression "you dumb dog" is part of our culture, and it is applied to a dog that does not behave as a proper dog should. A dog that barks at nothing is a dumb dog. A dog that does not bark when there are intruders is a dumb dog. A dog that acts like a cat (yeah, dogs learn by example too) is a dumb dog.
Why are we talking about dumb dogs? Well God used this phrase describing the watchmen He had set forth to protect Israel. In Isaiah 56:10-11, we read: "His watchmen are blind, all of them know nothing, all of them are dumb dogs unable to bark, dreamers, lying down, who love to slumber; And the dogs are greedy, they are not satisfied. And they are shepherds who have no understanding; They have all turned to their own way. Each one to his unjust gain, to the last one."
Notice the descriptions of these watchmen called dumb dogs.
Blind:
The context suggest that these watchmen are blind by choice. They choose NOT to see the truth of God's word. They choose NOT to do God's will. Some people cannot help being blind. But to choose blindness is very dumb.
Ignorance:
These choose to know nothing. We as Christians are commanded to grow in grace and knowledge (2 Peter 3:18). Acquiring knowledge of God makes us more informed on how to please Him. These people choose to remain ignorant of God's saving message, but they still want to enjoy the benefits. Knowledge of God is the greatest acquisition man has ever acquired, and many choose to stay ignorant.
Unable to bark:
We could turn this around to mean that when they should be barking, they are not. As Christians we are to be set for the defense of the gospel. We should be able to warn people that their souls are in danger. But these mentioned here are so dumb, that they have no idea that a warning needs to be sounded. Error may be right under their noses, but they do not know any better, or that what is being done is condemned by God.
Dreamers:
These people have grand ideas, and really think that God needs to get with the program. They think they can save the world, yet they do not even look or try to save themselves. These people will try any method and any means to acquire knowledge, but the one method they will not use is study the Bible. Now that is dumb.
Lying down:
Awake from your sleep. Folks, it is crunch time and we better be getting our battle gear on. We are running out of time, so we need to prepare. We need the preparation so that we can enter battle with the forces of evil. These people are so secure in themselves, that they do not feel the need to do any preparation at all. Satan is prowling about, but they just lay there, usually sleeping. Now, how dumb is that?
Love to slumber:
Consider the ant, thou sluggard... These people think that work will harm them in some way, yet science has proven that inactivity will kill faster than some diseases. We are not talking about a Saturday afternoon nap out in the hammock. We are talking those who choose to not do anything for themselves or their souls. That is also dumb.
Greedy:
Greed is associated with idolatry. Greed drives most of the world economy these days. Many are not satisfied to just do their job and enjoy life. They want more, and they want it now. They gamble with the hope of hitting the big one. They bet on just about anything imaginable. They jump onto get rich quick schemes, even knowing that it is probably a scam. Greed has to be at or near the top of any list of sins by rank or danger. A Christian learns to be content in all his/her situations. Greed destroys contentment. Greed is dumb.
Not Satisfied:
Just like the grave, there is never enough. Most people who gamble and hit the big one, will usually turn around and spend it all trying to get a bigger one. It is the excitement that you can profit that turns people on. It is no different than not doing your job, but expecting to be paid for your time. Theft is wrong in any form. The scriptures mention the wicked who are never satisfied; in fact, it speaks of those who weary themselves doing what they should, but always find the strength to practice their wickedness. And who do we know who is never satisfied about anything? Our boss? Our spouse? Don't we consider that to be dumb?
No understanding:
At least the type of understanding that should get them to start serving God properly. Wisdom and understanding are crucial elements in our learning about God, but these people choose the wrong understanding. The scripture tells us to trust in the Lord and lean not on thine own understanding.
Turned their own way:
Of course, this speaks to everyone who chooses a way other than the Lord's way. Jesus said He was the way, but people make their own way. By doing so, they make their own rules, their own laws, and do nothing more than ease their own conscience. That has to be the dumbest things of all.
The sad thing is that we all know people who fit these descriptions, and there seems to be more of them around us all the time.
Take warning, and avoid the dumb dogs.
By Carey Scott
Friday, April 29, 2011
God Deserves Our Worship
Psalm 100:4-5 "Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations."
Words cannot explain enough why we should be thankful to God. Neither can we adequately offer praise that is due Him. So what we can do is thank Him and bless His name.
A few things to be thankful for:
Christ - the One whom God sent to die for us.
The Holy Spirit - from whom we are given the Bible, God's word.
Church - the only organization given the directives for doing God's work on earth today.
Salvation- While we should be serving God because He is God, we can be thankful that He blesses us with the hope of salvation, and knowing that if we are faithful, we will spend eternity with Him in heaven.
The Saints - Yes, there are times we would like to wring their necks, but if you happen to be associated with godly people who keep the spiritual things in the proper perspective, you are most certainly blessed.
Our families - When all follow the precepts of the home as God would have it, it is a splended relationship.
The time here on earth - we must keep busy while here for rest is to be after our life is over. And remember that time flies when you are having fun.
For everyone one of these things, we are to be thankful, but at the same time we are to give God praise and glory for what He has done for us, and simply for who God is. He is the LORD God Almighty, and is worthy of our praise.
Hebrews 13:15 "Through Him (Jesus) then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name."
Words cannot explain enough why we should be thankful to God. Neither can we adequately offer praise that is due Him. So what we can do is thank Him and bless His name.
A few things to be thankful for:
Christ - the One whom God sent to die for us.
The Holy Spirit - from whom we are given the Bible, God's word.
Church - the only organization given the directives for doing God's work on earth today.
Salvation- While we should be serving God because He is God, we can be thankful that He blesses us with the hope of salvation, and knowing that if we are faithful, we will spend eternity with Him in heaven.
The Saints - Yes, there are times we would like to wring their necks, but if you happen to be associated with godly people who keep the spiritual things in the proper perspective, you are most certainly blessed.
Our families - When all follow the precepts of the home as God would have it, it is a splended relationship.
The time here on earth - we must keep busy while here for rest is to be after our life is over. And remember that time flies when you are having fun.
For everyone one of these things, we are to be thankful, but at the same time we are to give God praise and glory for what He has done for us, and simply for who God is. He is the LORD God Almighty, and is worthy of our praise.
Hebrews 13:15 "Through Him (Jesus) then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name."
Friday, April 15, 2011
Why Did God Punish Israel?
There are many reasons, but I think God's own words given to the prophet Isaiah should suffice. Isaiah 1:2-9 "Listen, O heavens, and hear, O earth; for the LORD speaks, "Sons I have reared and brought up, but they have revolted against me. An Ox knows its owner, and a donkey its masters mangerm, but Israel does not know, My people do not understand. Alas sinful nation, people weighed down with iniquity, offspring of evildoers, sons who act corruptly! They have abandoned the LORD, they have despised the Holy One of Israel, they have turned away from Him. Where will you be stricken again, as you continue in your rebellion? The whole head is sick, and the whole heart is faint. From the sole of the foot even to the head there is nothing sound in it. Only bruises, welts, and raw wounds, not pressed out or bandaged, nor softened with oil. Your land is desolate, your cities are burned with fire, your fields--strangers are devouring them in your presence; it is desolation, as overthrown by strangers. And the daughter of Zion is left like a shelter in a vineyard, like a watchman's hut in a cucumber field, like a besieged city. Unless the LORD of hosts had left us a few survivors, we would be like Sodom, we would be like Gomorrah." These people turned their backs on God, and did not see fit to acknowledge Him as God. We have to be careful to not do the same things that they did. God has offered us the greatest of blessings, just like He offered great blessings to Israel. It kinda boggles the mind to see how people could just walk away from the blessings that were promised, but they did. Our world is not any different today. While God offers the home in heaven as a reward for the faithful, many are turning their back on God. These people were guilty of sin. They were corrupt. They even despised the LORD. They were suffering the punishment God promised. Yet they would not return to God. Their cities were desolate, and the Assyrians were coming in and taking whatever they wanted, and the people did nothing except watch them steal from them. If we do not want to be rejected by God, we just need to do the opposite of what they did. We must acknowledge God, and worship Him. We must be obedient to His will. We must serve Him with our whole being, heart, mind, and soul. And then be faithful until death, so that we might receive the reward. By Carey Scott
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Pray For Our Nation
For too long, the people of this nation have digressed away from it's core principles. Most people will hold up the right to worship at the church of your choice, but few actually exercise that right for themselves. There is a movement in our land that would seek to stop that right. I am sure many of you are depressed about the condition of our land and our society. The media has all but declared a war on Christianity. The TV shows are shoving all sorts of sin in our face, and many in that industry do so with malicious intent towards those who claim to follow Jesus. Even advertisers are forcing us to accept "alterate lifestyles" as not just one way, but really the only way as far as they are concerned. There are very few shows in which at least one or more regulars are living the "gay" lifestyle. The internet is another place that produces problems. For now, people can view whatever they want in the privacy of their own home. For many, they did not go see "adult films" for fear of being seen entering or exiting the venue where it took place. Now they can watch such filth with nobody being the wiser (except God still sees them). There are web sites that promote extra-marital affairs, and promise to keep them secret. While the internet has proved useful in some things, there are many areas in which it would have been better had it not been invented. Yet there is hope. Elijah had considered that all was lost and that he was alone in service to God, but God told him that there were seven thousand that still served Him (1 Kings 19:18). While that may sound impressive, consider that there were millions living in the land. But let us try to save our land by changing it one soul at a time. We are not going to get the entertainment media to change, because all their filth produces billions at the box office, thus giving them profits. The sex trade will not go away. The drug war is a fallacy. With drugs pumping billions into the economy, people are not going to take a chance to ruin an already broken system. Oh, there are many things we could get on a soap box and talk and rant and rave about. But know that there are thousands who have not bowed down to the idols of this world. There are many true Christians out there. We just need to seek them and find a away to show them our support. Pray for our nation, and its inhabitants.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Upcoming Gospel Meeting
This is to announce that the Eastside church of Christ in Ranger will
have a Gospel Meeting at the end of March.
March 27 we meet at 9:45am for class and 10:45am and 5:00pm for worship.
March 28 we will meet at 7:30pm
March 29 we will meet at 7:30pm
March 30 we will meet at 7:00pm
Carey Scott (the local preacher) will be doing the speaking.
The topics for the sermons will depend upon the visitors we have.
Everyone is invited to attend, and we will be happy to answer any questions
that would be presented to us.
Hope to see you there.
have a Gospel Meeting at the end of March.
March 27 we meet at 9:45am for class and 10:45am and 5:00pm for worship.
March 28 we will meet at 7:30pm
March 29 we will meet at 7:30pm
March 30 we will meet at 7:00pm
Carey Scott (the local preacher) will be doing the speaking.
The topics for the sermons will depend upon the visitors we have.
Everyone is invited to attend, and we will be happy to answer any questions
that would be presented to us.
Hope to see you there.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Birds Do Not Build Mansions
I read this title on my e-mail list the other day. While I have not read the article that was submitted, it got me to thinking that we all should consider this thought.
Without exception, all of the animal kingdom (with the exception of man--whom I do not really consider an animal) does what they do for their needs. A bird will build a nest according to it's needs. All the species have different methods, and materials they use for their various nests.
A few birds do not even build nests. The penguins transfer the egg from the mother to the father, and the father stands over the egg to protect it from the elements during the harshest time of winter, and the females go off to the oceans edge to eat during that time.
The reason that animals do not build mansions is because they have no pride. They are content to do what God designed them to do.
Man on the other hand has a brain that God gave him/her. However we see from nature, that animals use their brains a lot better than most people. Man could get by with very little, because for most of the worlds population, that is all they have. When we are blessed with abundance, we really get stupid. We build things that we learn to think we could not live without.
Sometimes we build the mansions because others are doing it. Sometimes because we want to show off our affluence. Still, pride is that motivation.
The apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians how he could get by in poverty or prosperity. It is just being able to be content with what you have. Many people have the peace which passes all understanding because they have learned to become content. Those who are not content are miserable people indeed.
Without exception, all of the animal kingdom (with the exception of man--whom I do not really consider an animal) does what they do for their needs. A bird will build a nest according to it's needs. All the species have different methods, and materials they use for their various nests.
A few birds do not even build nests. The penguins transfer the egg from the mother to the father, and the father stands over the egg to protect it from the elements during the harshest time of winter, and the females go off to the oceans edge to eat during that time.
The reason that animals do not build mansions is because they have no pride. They are content to do what God designed them to do.
Man on the other hand has a brain that God gave him/her. However we see from nature, that animals use their brains a lot better than most people. Man could get by with very little, because for most of the worlds population, that is all they have. When we are blessed with abundance, we really get stupid. We build things that we learn to think we could not live without.
Sometimes we build the mansions because others are doing it. Sometimes because we want to show off our affluence. Still, pride is that motivation.
The apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians how he could get by in poverty or prosperity. It is just being able to be content with what you have. Many people have the peace which passes all understanding because they have learned to become content. Those who are not content are miserable people indeed.
Monday, February 14, 2011
The Plan, Formula, Recipe from God
As mankind has progressed from the stone age, they have sought many inventions. Most of these were not beneficial to people, as many inventions led people into deeper sin. Yet when we get the brightest and best and put a group together to come up with ways in which success can be achieved, we find the most simple of plans.
We usually find these plans in a few simple step programs or formulas. The process from something such as a building being constructed and occupied must follow a simple plan.
First, Determine what the need is.
Second, get an architect to plan something to meet that need.
Third, preparation including getting the permits, buying the material, contracting the labor.
Fourth is the actual construction,
and Fifth, is the occupation of this building.
Obviously, one must follow these steps in order.
That makes sense, and this process is followed all the time, because it works.
This formula works in building a sports team, and you can honestly say that when we read of a team rebuilding, that is exactly what they are doing. Usually the GM is the architect of the program. Gathering the right people and getting them ready is the preparation, then the construction takes place. This is where they put the plan together and work together to build a team, then finally they put the team on the field and execute their plan.
This process also works.
But now, let us consider how to build a Christian. For the most part, we have failed, because we have not used the plans and formula that God gave us, and which the world recognizes as being a successful model of growth and development.
We fail at building Christians. Oh, we make Christians, by our teaching, but we do not develop them in a structured format. Somehow, we expect them to come up out of the water with every ability that those of us who have been Christians for many years would have.
Jesus talked about the seed that fell among the rocky soil. They were all excited, had a lot of zeal, but then when the going got tough, they gave up.
Every Christian needs to develop a plan that they can use to assist new Christians in their growth. Because, many new converts want to do right, but they meet the frustration of not being able to handle tough situations.
Titus 2 teaches us that the older Christians should teach the younger Christians. Well, not in so many words, but read it for yourself. The older men to guide and counsel the younger men, and the older women to guide, train, and assist the younger women not only in Christianity, but everyday life.
God gave us the plan, and we need to execute such plan. We have far too many people who are baptized, and lose interest in the church so very quickly. Let us all learn what we can do to assist young Christians, and perhaps we will learn some things ourselves on this journey.
We usually find these plans in a few simple step programs or formulas. The process from something such as a building being constructed and occupied must follow a simple plan.
First, Determine what the need is.
Second, get an architect to plan something to meet that need.
Third, preparation including getting the permits, buying the material, contracting the labor.
Fourth is the actual construction,
and Fifth, is the occupation of this building.
Obviously, one must follow these steps in order.
That makes sense, and this process is followed all the time, because it works.
This formula works in building a sports team, and you can honestly say that when we read of a team rebuilding, that is exactly what they are doing. Usually the GM is the architect of the program. Gathering the right people and getting them ready is the preparation, then the construction takes place. This is where they put the plan together and work together to build a team, then finally they put the team on the field and execute their plan.
This process also works.
But now, let us consider how to build a Christian. For the most part, we have failed, because we have not used the plans and formula that God gave us, and which the world recognizes as being a successful model of growth and development.
We fail at building Christians. Oh, we make Christians, by our teaching, but we do not develop them in a structured format. Somehow, we expect them to come up out of the water with every ability that those of us who have been Christians for many years would have.
Jesus talked about the seed that fell among the rocky soil. They were all excited, had a lot of zeal, but then when the going got tough, they gave up.
Every Christian needs to develop a plan that they can use to assist new Christians in their growth. Because, many new converts want to do right, but they meet the frustration of not being able to handle tough situations.
Titus 2 teaches us that the older Christians should teach the younger Christians. Well, not in so many words, but read it for yourself. The older men to guide and counsel the younger men, and the older women to guide, train, and assist the younger women not only in Christianity, but everyday life.
God gave us the plan, and we need to execute such plan. We have far too many people who are baptized, and lose interest in the church so very quickly. Let us all learn what we can do to assist young Christians, and perhaps we will learn some things ourselves on this journey.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Making The Choice
The moment that God pronounced to Adam and Eve that they could eat of any fruit of the Garden except for one tree, God gave man a choice. Man has had that choice from the beginning up until now. We each have the choice of obeying God or not. We have the choice of meeting God's standards or not. We have the choice to sin.
God, not only gave us a choice, but God told us the results of our choices. Take time to read Deuteronomy 28. Verses 1-14 inform us of the blessings the children of Israel would realize if they obeyed God. Verses 15-68 warns them of the consequence of turning their backs on God.
Even though we are under a different system of grace, and not under the Mosaic law, there are still blessings made available to those who obey God, and curses fall upon those who sin before God. The result of sin is death, and the eventual destiny of all sinners is Hell. God warns us of the consequences of disobedience.
But God does not want us to perish, so He provided His grace to provide the attonement we need to come to God and have a pure relationship with Him. Jesus died on the cross so that we could be spared the penalty of Death.
But just because we are under grace, we still have choices. We must choose to follow Christ and God's commandments, or we can choose not to be obedient to God. Following Christ will bring blessings, and not following God will bring eternal torment.
The great thing about this grace is that God has given each one of us the ability to make the right choice. God even helps us because in 1 Corinthians 10:13, He protects us from any temptation that might overpower us. The bottom line is that if we choose to sin, it is all on us. We cannot blame Satan or the world or our parents or any living creature. If we succumb to temptation, we are guilty ourselves. We cannot blame God for our short-comings.
Some people want to teach that Satan is powerful and we cannot help sinning if we fall under his spell. Well that is so easy. Lay the blame on Satan. But everyone has the power to control Satan. We have that assurance from God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
To become a Christian is the greatest choice you can make in this life. You have the ability to choose to serve Christ and God. Stop blaming Satan and others for your failures, and make the choice to serve God. If you do, you have the right to enter Heaven if you continue in faithfulness.
What can we do to help you find the Lord, and become one of His children?
God, not only gave us a choice, but God told us the results of our choices. Take time to read Deuteronomy 28. Verses 1-14 inform us of the blessings the children of Israel would realize if they obeyed God. Verses 15-68 warns them of the consequence of turning their backs on God.
Even though we are under a different system of grace, and not under the Mosaic law, there are still blessings made available to those who obey God, and curses fall upon those who sin before God. The result of sin is death, and the eventual destiny of all sinners is Hell. God warns us of the consequences of disobedience.
But God does not want us to perish, so He provided His grace to provide the attonement we need to come to God and have a pure relationship with Him. Jesus died on the cross so that we could be spared the penalty of Death.
But just because we are under grace, we still have choices. We must choose to follow Christ and God's commandments, or we can choose not to be obedient to God. Following Christ will bring blessings, and not following God will bring eternal torment.
The great thing about this grace is that God has given each one of us the ability to make the right choice. God even helps us because in 1 Corinthians 10:13, He protects us from any temptation that might overpower us. The bottom line is that if we choose to sin, it is all on us. We cannot blame Satan or the world or our parents or any living creature. If we succumb to temptation, we are guilty ourselves. We cannot blame God for our short-comings.
Some people want to teach that Satan is powerful and we cannot help sinning if we fall under his spell. Well that is so easy. Lay the blame on Satan. But everyone has the power to control Satan. We have that assurance from God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
To become a Christian is the greatest choice you can make in this life. You have the ability to choose to serve Christ and God. Stop blaming Satan and others for your failures, and make the choice to serve God. If you do, you have the right to enter Heaven if you continue in faithfulness.
What can we do to help you find the Lord, and become one of His children?
Saturday, January 22, 2011
LOST!
This word has many different meanings to many different people.
To a parent, a lost child is a horrible situation.
A lost wallet causes many actions to be taken.
In describing the death of a loved one it is said they "lost someone dear to them".
Some people traveling get lost.
Then, some people have lost their minds as we say in a metaphorical way.
But the worst loss for anyone is being spiritually lost.
People get lost all the time, and many are lost spiritually.
Many know they are lost spiritually, but do not care to do anything about it.
But let us suppose they realize their lost condition, how do they find their way.
The first step is acknowledgement that they are lost. For why would they do anything if they did not know they were lost.
Second step is trying to figure out where you want to go. If you have no place to go, then perhaps you are not lost as we reason in our human minds.
Now for the spiritually lost, they realize that being lost is the same as being separated from God. What caused this? Their sins. Isaiah 59:2 tells us that our sins separate us from God. What can we do to find God once again? The answer is easy. Let God give you the directions. Call it God's GPS. Most of us know how a GPS works. We have them in our cars and telephones and computers. These contraptions are pretty smart. They not only can direct you to your desired destination, but they tell you how to get there, and which roads to take. Some are even sophisticated enough to warn you of traffic ahead, and seek a possible safe detour. But what good would this GPS device be if we did not follow it's instructions? Suppose you make a left turn when the GPS tells you to make a right turn. That delays your getting to your destination.
You see, God's Plan of Salvation (GPS) informs us what road to take and how to stay on it. The directions are given to us via the instruction manual, better known as the Bible. When one follows the guidance of the GPS and adheres to the rules, they will get to the desired destination of Heaven. But if they choose to go off course (because the Bible will never lead them that direction), they must either return to the right course, or be lost.
Here on earth if one is lost, they have many sources to turn to. They can ask for directions, or look up the directions. They can read a map, or make a phone call to get directions. And usually they find what they need in a short time. Many times, it does not bother us that much to know that we are lost. We know we need to get back on the right course, and we just need to find out as soon as possible, or we need to seek an alternative route to get to our destination.
But there is only one way to get to Heaven and that means going on the right route which takes us through Jesus Christ. Jesus is the way the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through Him. (John 14:6) If we choose to travel a different path, or follow different rules from what God has already given to us, we will become lost.
Make sure you follow Gods GPS on your spiritual journey, and the desired destination will be there for you to enjoy. But take warning if you choose a different path.
To a parent, a lost child is a horrible situation.
A lost wallet causes many actions to be taken.
In describing the death of a loved one it is said they "lost someone dear to them".
Some people traveling get lost.
Then, some people have lost their minds as we say in a metaphorical way.
But the worst loss for anyone is being spiritually lost.
People get lost all the time, and many are lost spiritually.
Many know they are lost spiritually, but do not care to do anything about it.
But let us suppose they realize their lost condition, how do they find their way.
The first step is acknowledgement that they are lost. For why would they do anything if they did not know they were lost.
Second step is trying to figure out where you want to go. If you have no place to go, then perhaps you are not lost as we reason in our human minds.
Now for the spiritually lost, they realize that being lost is the same as being separated from God. What caused this? Their sins. Isaiah 59:2 tells us that our sins separate us from God. What can we do to find God once again? The answer is easy. Let God give you the directions. Call it God's GPS. Most of us know how a GPS works. We have them in our cars and telephones and computers. These contraptions are pretty smart. They not only can direct you to your desired destination, but they tell you how to get there, and which roads to take. Some are even sophisticated enough to warn you of traffic ahead, and seek a possible safe detour. But what good would this GPS device be if we did not follow it's instructions? Suppose you make a left turn when the GPS tells you to make a right turn. That delays your getting to your destination.
You see, God's Plan of Salvation (GPS) informs us what road to take and how to stay on it. The directions are given to us via the instruction manual, better known as the Bible. When one follows the guidance of the GPS and adheres to the rules, they will get to the desired destination of Heaven. But if they choose to go off course (because the Bible will never lead them that direction), they must either return to the right course, or be lost.
Here on earth if one is lost, they have many sources to turn to. They can ask for directions, or look up the directions. They can read a map, or make a phone call to get directions. And usually they find what they need in a short time. Many times, it does not bother us that much to know that we are lost. We know we need to get back on the right course, and we just need to find out as soon as possible, or we need to seek an alternative route to get to our destination.
But there is only one way to get to Heaven and that means going on the right route which takes us through Jesus Christ. Jesus is the way the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through Him. (John 14:6) If we choose to travel a different path, or follow different rules from what God has already given to us, we will become lost.
Make sure you follow Gods GPS on your spiritual journey, and the desired destination will be there for you to enjoy. But take warning if you choose a different path.
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