The Eastside church of Christ in Ranger, TX

Return to Him

2012-01-10T09:24:00.001-08:00

In Isaiah 31:6 we read: "Return to Him from whom you have deeply defected, O sons of Israel."

As we consider the work of the prophets, this was their main message. We on this side of the cross of Christ might consider that their importance was in declaring the coming of the King of Israel, and in describing Jesus and His cause.
Yet, the prophets spoke to two different groups. Obviously, in their day, they had to speak to God's people, because the people had defected away from God. We know what it means when a spy defected, or a soldier defected. It means they have turned their back on their commitment, and have sought comfort, aid, solitude, repose in the midst of the enemy.
The prophets tried to get the people to stop their sins and start serving the God of Israel once again. It would be for their good. They would enjoy many blessings if they did. However their sins were more important to them, than serving God, and thus they suffered terribly because of their sins.
We also learn from the prophets, as they were the same as our modern day preachers. At least those preachers that speak the truth of God's word. We teach the same lessons in so many ways. That is why Paul wrote in Romans 15:4 that the things written aforetime were for our instruction.
The prophets also told of the coming of the Messiah. They told what the signs would be, and really, if people had studied the scriptures well enough, they should have recognized Jesus as the Messiah that was promised.
Many people today need to heed the call of the prophet. They have been separated from God by their iniquities (sins), and are in need of salvation.
So like the pleading of the prophet of 2700 years ago, consider returning to God, by obedience to His gospel message.
Believe in the Christ as the Son of God who died upon the cross for YOUR sins. Repent by changing your life to focus upon God and not yourself. Confess the name of Jesus now and everyday for the rest of your life, and be baptized for the removal of your sins. It is only then that you can become a Christian, and then you must continue to learn how to be a better Christian all the days of your life.
By Carey Scott

Fall Gospel Meeting

2011-09-13T04:00:00.001-07:00

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.

Return to God

2011-08-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

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.

The Word Of God Stands Forever

2011-06-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

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.

What Is There Left To Do?

2011-06-13T19:17:00.000-07:00

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.

2011-06-10T16:04:00.000-07:00

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

God Deserves Our Worship

2011-04-29T09:48:00.000-07:00

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."

Why Did God Punish Israel?

2011-04-15T13:45:00.000-07:00

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

Pray For Our Nation

2011-04-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

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.

Upcoming Gospel Meeting

2011-03-06T20:26:00.000-08:00

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.

Birds Do Not Build Mansions

2011-02-23T14:38:00.000-08:00

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.

The Plan, Formula, Recipe from God

2011-02-14T21:36:00.000-08:00

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.

Making The Choice

2011-02-08T21:42:00.001-08:00

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?

LOST!

2011-01-22T08:09:00.000-08:00

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.

The Name Of The Lord

2010-12-16T11:00:00.000-08:00

1 Samuel 17:45-47 "The David said to the Philistine, "You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have taunted." "This day the LORD will deliver you up into my hands, and I will strike you down and remove your head from you. And I will give the dead bodies of the army of the Philistines this day to the birds of the sky and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel, and that all this assembly may know that the LORD does not deliver by sword or spear; for the battle is the LORD's and He will give you into our hands"

Of course we know the story. Goliath the giant had challenged the men of Saul's army to a match, and the side of the winner would get all the spoil, and plunder. David had been sent by his father, Jesse, to inquire of his brothers who were in the army.
David agreed to meet this giant of a warrior, and all he took was his staff and his sling. He picked up five smooth stones, although he only needed one. David said that he did not come with weapons of warfare, but that he came in the name of the LORD. In other words, David had faith that God would defeat the army of the Philistines that very day. And yes, God was victorious.

Today we use the phrase "the name of the Lord" to mean His authority. Colossians 3:17 reads: "And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father". What we do in our worship to God and our daily living is to be by His authority. Anything we attempt to do in God's name or the name of Jesus, must be according to His word which is the Bible. Just like our prayers, these need to be done according to His will.

Let us not take this phrase for granted, but let us do everything in the name of the Lord. By His authority and by His commandments. When we enter our spiritual warfare, let us take the name of the Lord with us, because the battle belongs to the LORD.
By Carey Scott

Thoughts on Psalm 139

2010-12-07T21:49:00.000-08:00

God searches the hearts of men. Jeremiah 17:10 says that. God searches hearts and tests the minds of men. God knows us each intimately. God even knows us better than we know ourselves.
God knows what we are doing at all times. Even a task we take for granted like sitting down in a chair or on a log or bench is known by God. God watches us as we get up out of bed or out of the chair.
God knows our thoughts as we are thinking them. He knows what our motives are and why we do what we do. God tries to direct our thoughts by giving us His commands, but in the end we still decide what we will do. And even then, God knows what we are doing and thinking.
God knows our actions and even our tendencies. So if God is watching us this carefully, how should we behave? And in order for our behavior to be excellent, we need to fix our minds on things that will please God.
To comprehend that God knows everything, even the things said before we say them, we should be humbled to recognize the greatness of God and His Omniscience. This boggles our minds, and is really beyond our human comprehension. All the more reason to seek knowlege that comes from above so that we can live better lives.
Can anyone run away from God? No! But people do run away all the time. Their problem is that they forget that they cannot run away from God. Jonah tried many years ago, and look where that got him. When people get overwhelmed in their lives, they want to escape. Some do it by drinking or doing drugs. Some get involved in immoral behavior. Some just sink down into deep depression. Few choose to run away from living. But all our running cannot remove us from God and His knowledge of us.
We must remember that God made us. We are not the product of years of evolutionary events. God formed us in our mother's wombs. God was paying attention when nature was following its natural course of events from conception until birth. God still watches us, and for the faithful and righteous, God protects us in many ways that we cannot even comprehend.
God may know the number of days we will spend on the earth, but our living is left up to us. Sadly events take place that may shorten a life. Accidents happen, and diseases all come about because of what happened back near the beginning. Adam and Even brought death to all mankind because of sin. Sin is also responsible for separating us from God (Isaiah 59:2).
As over-whelming as these thoughts are, we should seek to find the thoughts of God, and learn from them. As the Psalmist states it so eloquently: How precious also are Thy thoughts to me, O God! How vast is the sum of them! (Psalm 139:17)
In the end, we need to submit ourselves to God. We need to learn if there are things in our lives that will harm our souls, and ask God to lead us in the everlasting way.

By Carey Scott

The Book Of Remembrance

2010-12-03T22:15:00.000-08:00

We know from the great judgment day scene in Revelation that books will be opened. Daniel 12 also mentions these books that are to be opened. We are quite sure that the Bible will be one of the books. The book of deeds will be there. The Lamb's book of life will be there and also the book of remembrance.
Let us look to see what it takes to get our name in this book. It is a very good book to have your name in.
Malachi 3:16 "Then those who feared the LORD spoke to one another, and the LORD gave attention and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the LORD and who esteem His name."
Those who fear the LORD are those who obey His voice. The commandments given to us via the Bible are these words. Our respect for these laws of God go to the very core of our relationship with God.
Those who esteem His name. The name of God is to be reverenced and held in the highest of honor. There will be many who call on His name, but will not be accepted of Him. Matthew 7:21 quotes Jesus when He said: "Not everyone who says to me Lord, Lord, shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he that does the will of My Father Who is in heaven".
Obedience to God's commands is the only way to get your name in that book of remembrance. And if our name is in that book, it is also in the Lambs book of life, and our deeds are judged favorable by God in the last day.
See what you can do with your life, to put your name in the book of remembrance.
By Carey Scott

Fixing Our Eyes On Jesus

2010-11-23T08:37:00.000-08:00

This phrase is recorded in Hebrews 12:2.
It is preceded by the fact that we have a course laid out for us. The writer uses the analogy of a foot race. "let us run with endurance, the race set before us. Fixing our eyes on Jesus." This passage starts with the fact that faith is all so important. Chapter 11 has listed the strength of faith of so many. These many serve as a testimony of their faith, and should inspire us to try to achieve the same fervor in our faith as they had.
We do this by getting the world out of the way. When the passage reads: "let us also lay aside every encumbrance", it means we need to remove every obstacle that is in our way. Some versions render this word as weight. I don't think that sin is really the subject here because the next phrase in the verse says: "and the sin which so easily entangles us". These weights are things that may not be sin of themselves, but they can get in the way of serving the Lord. Things like work, family, recreation, eating, and so forth. All these are allowed by God, but we can abuse anything. So let us remove anything that gets in the way of serving God.
How do we do this? By fixing our eyes upon Jesus. Another way of saying this is to focus upon our goal. Jesus should be the ultimate goal for each of us. We are commanded to be like Him in suffering and example. We should be like Him in the fact that we have concern for peoples souls and will help them find salvation. While He died for their sins, we should be able to show people how to find the truth of God's word as spoken by Jesus.
When we have our focus upon the right goal, it is easier to not stray. Like on a race track there are lines for each runner to run in. You cross the line, and you get disqualified. You fix your eyes and goal upon Jesus, and we can win the race, and the prize that goes along with it. The crown of life is waiting for those who will run the race with endurance. This suggest a long distance race as opposed to a sprint. If we are in this race for the long haul, we had better keep our focus.
Have you fixed your eyes upon Jesus?

By Carey Scott

Congregational Singing

2010-11-19T08:34:00.000-08:00

Congregational singing is unique music. The singing of a congregation of Christians is the singing of the young and the old, the much talented and the not so talented, the musically experienced, and the inexperienced, some who can sing beautifully and many who cannot. It is not a vocal performance by auditioned, rehersed professionals. It is the music of heart strings rather than vocal chords.
The primary design of congregation singing, then, is not to demonstrate how accurately these singers can sing the musical notes in a church hymnal, nor how beautifuolly they articulate the words of their songs. Its objective, rather, is the congregation's participation in a collective spiritual experience, "teach and admonishing one another and singing with grace and melody in their hearts to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16), and speaking words of worship, praise, and thanksgiving to their heavenly Father. Their prayer songs become living prayers, just as their priase hymns become living praises. Their songs become living vehicles of spiritual expression! "...in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto Thee." (Hebrews 2:12)
Unlike the fictional songs sung by the world, these worshippers sing about eternal realities; the only true and living God, His resurrected and returning Son, Jesus Christ, and, of heaven, their eventual eternal home. The songs they sing to one another teach, admonish, exhort, and encouarge. They revive memories recalling "exceeding great and precious promises..." (2 Peter 1:4). They build faith, strengthen hope and express love for one another. The hearts of these singers are musical instruments, provided by their heavenly Father and on these hearts they strum spiritual messages and emotions of thei present life and the life to come. These worshippers don't just sing songs; they make their songs sing!
Genuine, sincere, intentional worshippers seize each opportunity to pour out the thoughts of their hearts in song, "singing with the spirit and the undertanding" (1 Corinthians 14:15) with a desire to offer their songs as "sacrifices of praise, the fruit of lips...for with such sacrifices God is well pleased" (Hebrew 2:15,16). In the midst of the assembly of the saints of God, let every heart rejoice and sing! "Serve the Lord with gladness, come before His presence with singing" (Psalm 100:2)
By Ralph A. Casey

Discipleship.

2010-11-12T08:49:00.000-08:00

For the next several weeks, the lessons from the pulpit will be about Discipleship. As Christians we not only have a duty to be a disciple, but a command. Jesus commanded His apostles to go out into the world and make disciples. A disciple is a learner, a student, an apprentice. Someone who learns from a master for the purpose of being like his/her master.
As we go into God's word to see what is involved in discipleship, we learn the method and plan that God put in place. When we follow God's guidelines, we will have success.
And this formula works in the realm of sports, business, and the home.

The Hypocrisy Of Halloween

2010-11-01T13:32:00.000-07:00

Of course, we like to dress up in costumes, and pretend that witches and goblins are all around. It is fun to eat candy, and we have been doing it for many years. But I would encourage parents to pay close attention to what we are actually doing with our children.
Other than the fact that Halloween had its origin in pagan religious ceremonies of honoring the dead, we have to compare the activities with the Bible and determine if this is a wholesome thing to do.
We constantly teach our children to avoid strangers and to never approach a stranger. Not to mention, don't take things from strangers. But on this one night of the year, we encourage them to do that very thing. Parents you are going to have to spend a lot of time retraining your children to avoid strangers. Many parents are protective with their children and teach them these things. Some parents could care less.
We also have a problem of allowing them to pig-out on candy and junk food. Once again, parents, you need to provide good nutrition for your kids. Ration their candy and make it lasts a long time. Encourage the children to eat better food. It would not hurt the parents either to eat a healthy diet.
We also delude our children to think that witches and goblins, and other eerie creatures actually exist. And if they become scared, we tenderly tell them that it is only make believe. In the grand scheme of things, this is nothing more than a lie. I guess because we have fun, we think that it is OK. Parents have a responsibility to train their children properly. This season of halloween does not help put a wise head upon our children.
And adults have turned this holiday into an opportunity to party, get drunk, commit fornication, and then have to live with the consequences.
The bible tells us to be sober minded all the time so that we do not commit sin in our lives. Everything about halloween is fantasy, over-eating, reveling, and most of it goes against the teaching of the Bible. Parents have a great responsibility to the children, and this does not help at all.

By Carey Scott 11/1/2010

Challenges in our Worship

2010-10-30T18:14:00.000-07:00

We face challenges every day. The very definition of "challenge" carries the idea of confontation, competition, and difficulty. Our faith is challenged by all sorts of forces all the time.
Most of these forces come from what the world has to throw our way. The world working as an agent of Satan is putting temption and pressure upon us to get us to cease having a good relationship with God. If our faith is strong, we are able to meet the challenge, always realizing that we are doing so by the help of God.
1 Corinthians 10:13: "No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it."
So we have God's protection and assurance that everything that comes our way is something that we have control over. Thus when we sin, we have no one to blame but ourselves.
The challenges mentioned already are external challenges. The other challenges we face are internal. This is where and when we begin to question our own faith. When we forget God is helping us, and we look to ourselves to fix our problems rather than turn our problems over to God. We are to cast all our cares upon Him, because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). When we let God have control over us, our day goes by much easier and life is more tolerable.
By Carey Scott 10/30/2010

New Preacher in town

2010-10-28T20:20:00.001-07:00

We are happy to announce that bro. Carey Scott has come to work with the church here at Eastside. Carey has previously preached in Houston, Tx and Madisonville, Tx as well as fill in at many places.
Carey is married to Candy, and they have two children and six grandchildren. Carey and Candy live here in Ranger with their dog, Gizmo.
Carey retired from the trucking industry in Houston after thirty years. His goal was to retire and begin working with a congregation as a preacher.
Carey owns and operates the website: http://www.simplebiblestudies.com/

Carey has the goal of growing the church here at Eastside. This is to be accomplished by helping the current members become stronger spiritually, and by inviting people to come and study God's word.
If you live in the area and would like to have a Bible study in your home, please let us know.

Words of Farewell

2010-03-12T13:47:00.000-08:00

Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.

II Corinthians 13:11 (KJV)

Paul, in concluding his second letter to Corinth, ends with some final words of instruction. In this one short verse we writes to the brethren four things they need to do and states what the outcome of that will be.

Be Perfect
Paul writes to the brethren to be perfect. Other translations say to be complete or to aim for perfection. This is an admonition to continue growing in Christ. As a Christian aims for perfection, they will learn more about what they need to do (Hebrews 5:12-6:3), and will strive to be more and more dedicated to Christ.

Just as Paul wrote to the church in Corinth, encouraging them to be perfect, I would exhort you to aim for perfection. Study the scriptures often (Acts 17:11), learning more of the Lord and of the Lord's will. As you better learn and understand what the Bible contains, seek to apply it to your life.

Be of Good Comfort
Paul next tells them to be comforted. There is comfort to be found in Christ and in following Christ. There are rewards to be found in Chriist, which is a comforting thought. If you are truly following Christ, there is peace to be found while in this life (Philippians 4:7). If you continue to follow the Lord, then there is the promise of eternal life (Romans 2:7).

Brethren, be comforted. There is much in this life that can be discouraging and troubling. Bear in mind what comfort there is to be found in fully following and trusting in the Lord. It will be of benefit both in overcoming life's trials and in encouraging you to continue serving the Lord.

Be of One Mind
Paul encourages the brethren in Corinth to be united. The unity that he tells them to have is found only in the Lord (I John 1:7). If we seek first to have unity with the Lord, then we have unity, and agreement, with those others who are united with Christ. If we seek first to have unity with other men, then we turn our backs to Christ. True Christin unity with men cannot come at the expense of the Truth, at the expense of God's word, or at the expense of serving Christ. That way is a lie, and in that way lies spiritual death. Do you want unity? Then put God first, serve Him, and you will be united with those who do the same.

Again, this same exhortation must be heeded by you. Be of one mind. Seek unity and agreement. But not at the expense of truth and righteousness. Do not allow unnecessary division to enter the church.

Live in Peace
Paul next tells the Corinthians to live in peace. Christians are to live a quiet, peaceful life as much as they are able (Romans 12:18, I Thessalonians 4:11).

The same admonition is good for all of us today. We should strive to lead quiet, sensible, peaceable lives. As much as is up to you, live with those around you in peace.

God Will Be With You
Paul writes that if the Christians in Corinth do these things, growing and aiming for perfection, living in such a way as to be comforted by God's promises, being truly unified in Christ, and living in peace with those around them, then God will be with them. The other side of this is that if they do not do these things, then God will not be with them.

If you want God to be with you, you too must do these things. Study the word of God, make application to your lives, and so aim for the perfection of Christ. Live in such a way that the thought of God's judgment does not bring fear, but comfort. Be of one mind, united in faith and obedience to the Lord. Live in peace with the others in the community, that opportunities to teach and convert others may arise. Do these things diligently and zealously, without growing tired. If you do, then the Lord will be with you.

But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.

II Thessalonians 2:13-17 (KJV)

The Church Directory is Not the Book of Life

2010-03-07T06:29:00.000-08:00

Occasionally people seem to confuse the congregation's directory with the book of life. Some outside the body of Christ tell Christians, “You think you're the only ones going to heaven.” Some in the body of Christ think, “Well, I go to church, and it's a good church, so I'm okay.” Both of these make the mistake of thinking that having your name in the church directory is the same as having your name in the book of life.

And I entreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life.

Philippians 4:3 (KJV)

He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.

Revelation 3:5 (KJV)

And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

Revelation 20:12-14 (KJV)

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.

Revelation 21:27 (KJV)

One thing that is quickly seen in each of these passages is that people are not written into the book of life as a group. They are written as individuals. Paul describes these individuals as “fellow laborers,” that is, those who are diligently working to further the cause of Christ. In the book of Revelation, it is stated that those who “overcome,” that is, patiently endure the trials and temptations of this life while leading a Christian life, will not have their name blotted out of the book of life. We see also that having one's name in the book of life is dependent on obedient action, for such is what we will be judged by. We also see, by comparison, that those written into the book of life are pure and blameless before God, nor being defiled or spotted by sin.

This is not to say that working and assembling with a sound, solid congregation is not important. It most definitely is. But identifying yourself with the most faithful congregation in the world will not gain you entrance into heaven. Having your name in the directory will not get your name into the book of life.

Wherefore, my beloved, as ye 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.

Philippians 2:12 (KJV)

Paul writes that Christians should work out their own salvation. He is not instructing us to create our own rules or system by which we can be saved. He is instructing us to be aware that salvation is on an individual basis. As such, we need to work towards salvation on an individual basis. Each of us is responsible for having faith (Hebrews 11:6, I Corinthians 15:1-19, Matthew 16:16, Acts 8:37). Each of us must repent of our sins and turn to God (Acts 2:38, Acts 3:19). Each of us must confess Christ continually (Romans 10:10). Each individual must be baptized (Acts 2:38, I Peter 3:21). Each individual must engage in obedient works (James 2:14-26, Ephesians 2:10). And each individual must be sure not to waver and fall away (Luke 8:13, Hebrews 6:4-6).

You may convince yourself that you are doing well, even without putting in much effort (I Corinthians 3:18). You may convince others in the church that you are solid, on the basis of coming to assemblies. Everyone you worship and work with may be in the book of life. But your life must truly be in accordance with God's will if you wish to have your name in the book of life. Are you diligently laboring in the same way as those who labored with Paul, striving to teach others the gospel (II Corinthians 5:11) and doing good to all men (Galatians 6:10)? Are you striving to overcome sin and temptation and live a life in accordance with God's will? Do your actions reflect a focus on spiritual things, a trust in God, and a willingness to submit your will to His? Are you free from sin?

If not, then your name, according to the scriptures, is not in the book of life. While it is important to identify and assemble with a scripturally solid and faithful church, we must make sure that the local directory is not the only place our name appears. We must faithfully strive to have our name written in the book of life.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

2010-03-01T13:39:00.000-08:00

In most things that we do in life, we compare how much it will cost with how much we will gain from it. When we purchase something, it is because we have decided that it is worth the cost. When we choose not to purchase something, it is often because we have determined the cost is too high. We often use this way of reasoning in many aspects of our lives. Choosing to follow Christ is no different. There are costs and there are benefits, and we must each choose whether serving the Lord is worth it.

If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace. So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

Luke 14:26-33 (KJV)

Christ speaks plainly here: we must be prepared to give up all that we have in this life, even our own families if necessary. Sometimes one's family members are unwilling to accept one's faith and Christian obedience. We must count the cost and determine if it is worth it. Christ tells us that such a sacrifice, if necessary, is well worth it. In Mark 10:29-30, we are told that if we must give up our physical, earthly relatives, we gain a great number of brothers and sisters in Christ. Indeed, in choosing to follow Christ, we greatly increase our family. Similarly, we may lose some of our friends and acquaintances. (I Peter 4:3-5) We must each consider whether the benefits outweigh that cost.

One of the costs of following Christ is that we must stop living self. We must give up sin, we must give up self-will, and we must be willing to give up our pride and submit to the Lord's way.
Become sober-minded as you ought, and stop sinning; for some have no knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame.

I Corinthians 15:34 (KJV)

And He withdrew from them about a stone's throw, and He knelt down and began to pray, saying, "Father, if Thou art willing, remove this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Thine be done."

Luke 22:41-42 (KJV)

But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

James 4:6-10 (KJV)

We must weigh the costs of following the Lord. But we must also weigh the benefits. One of the benefits of living for Christ is a degree of comfort and fearlessness in this life. We live in a time where many wish they could have some comfort, for a great many reasons. In Christ, there is great comfort and peace. Paul writes to the church in Philippi that the peace of Christ goes beyond what we can understand (Philippians 4:7).

In order to receive the comfort offered in Christ, we must first be in Christ (I Peter 5:14). If we are not in Christ, then we do not have the peace and comfort which He offers. Being in Christ requires having come to faith and obedience (Galatians 3:27).

Part of this comfort offered by Christ is in knowing that the Lord cares for you (I Peter 5:7). In Matthew 6:24-34, Christ makes a promise to those who follow Him. That they will be taken care of and provided for. Now, notice that this passage does not say that His disciples will be wealthy or well off. Nor does He say that they will be of good health. Nor does He say that nothing bad will occur in their life. The only promise made is that we will have what we need for as long as we need it. While a far cry from the “gospel of health and wealth” that many advocate, it is nonetheless a comforting thought.

Part of the comfort offered by Christ is knowing that there are others who obey Christ who will be there to help us and work with us in the Lord's service (II Corinthians 7:6). As in all things, it is comforting to know that others are with us. More importantly, we have the promise that God is with us (Matthew 18:20). The Lord who will strengthen us is always with us, if we live in faith and obedience (Philippians 4:13).

Among other benefits, the greatest is that of the hope of eternal life. It would be hard to find a cost that would outweigh such a gain. Anything that may occur in this life, even this life itself, is temporary and will pass. What the Lord promises those who follow Him is an unending life of peace and joy in the very presence of God.
But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Romans 5:22:23 (KJV)

And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.

Revelation 21:1-7 (KJV)

Study and Singing

2010-02-21T11:52:00.000-08:00

It is easy to understand how study is important for Bible class. And it should be obvious how important study before, during, and after sermons. Often before the Lord's Supper scripture will be read and remarks made, so it is not hard to understand that studying the word of God is useful there. Of course, we know we should study so that we may know how to behave and follow Christ. And study and prayer pretty naturally go together: praying before study, studying prayer, etc. But what about singing? How does study interact with singing? After all, it's hard to study while you're singing.

Of course, it takes study to know that we are to sing (Ephesians 5:19, Colossians 3:16). We can (and should) study and see examples of the disciples devoting themselves to prayer and song (Matthew 26:30, Acts 16:25). But that's not the end of the interaction between singing and studying for us. At least, it shouldn't be.

Do you always know what you are singing? One of the more commonly known songs is O Thou Fount of Every Blessing. So, do you know what it means by “here I raise my Ebenezer”? Hopefully you do. It comes from I Samuel 7:12, where Samuel raises a stone, naming it “Ebenezer” as a memorial to what the Lord had done in protecting them against the Philistines. The meaning of Ebenezer is “stone of help,” which makes the song make more sense.

And Samuel took a sucking lamb, and offered it for a burnt offering wholly unto the LORD: and Samuel cried unto the LORD for Israel; and the LORD heard him. And as Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to battle against Israel: but the LORD thundered with a great thunder on that day upon the Philistines, and discomfited them; and they were smitten before Israel. And the men of Israel went out of Mizpeh, and pursued the Philistines, and smote them, until they came under Beth-car. Then Samuel took a stone, and set it between Mizpeh and Shen, and called the name of it Eben-ezer, saying, Hitherto hath the LORD helped us.

I Samuel 7:9-12 (KJV)

In I Corinthians 14, Paul gave the first century Christians at Corinth instructions on the use of spiritual gifts. A good portion of that chapter is spent explaining how to properly use the gift of speaking in languages that hadn't been studied and learned. In that context, Paul writes that is is important to understand what is being prayed and what is being sung. He points out that without being able to understand the song (because it is in a language you do not know), nothing is gained. The same principle carries over to study in terms of singing. Understanding is needed, and that requires us to know what we sing.

Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.

I Corinthians 14:13-17 (KJV)

The point is, we should not be singing, and thus teaching something unless we know what it is we are teaching. If we are not studying, we will not know what we are singing.

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.

Colossians 3:16 (KJV)

Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

Ephesians 5:19-20 (KJV)

Familiarity with God's word is a part of every part of what we do. It is not just a matter of studying for class, sermons, and instruction in living. Even a thing that may seem like it has little to do with study involves learning God's word.

Literal and Figurative Language in the Bible

2010-02-14T13:19:00.000-08:00

"Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbs up some other way, he is a thief and a robber. "But he who enters by the door is a shepherd of the sheep. "To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name, and leads them out. "When he puts forth all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. "And a stranger they simply will not follow, but will flee from him, because they do not know the voice of strangers." This figure of speech Jesus spoke to them, but they did not understand what those things were which He had been saying to them.

John 10:1-6 (NASB)

In this passage, Jesus speaks a parable to those listening. This is a figure of speech used to explain and clarify His teaching. Obviously Jesus' followers are not literal sheep, just as Christ does not open a literal door to them. Rather, we understand that this is figurative language to explain a concept.

Most of the Bible is to be taken literally. Most of the Bible is clear and simple. When we are told facts and commands, we generally understand it at face value. However, there are some times when the Bible is not intended to be taken literally, but figuratively. There is much figurative language in the Bible, and failing to recognize when figurative language is used in the Bible can lead to difficulty in understanding much of scripture, and often leads to false doctrines and errors. There are a few specific types of figurative language that we will briefly consider.

Parables
Christ taught many things in parables while He walked this earth. Others in the Bible occasionally used parables to teach a lesson. A parable is a short story which serves as an analogy to explain something else. For example, the the different types of soil parable of the sower in Matthew 13 teaches us about the different ways the gospel will be received by people. The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15 teaches us about repentance and God's forgiveness. The parables are not to be taken at strictly face value. In the above example of the parable of the sower, it is not a lesson farming. Rather, each parable stands figuratively for something else.

Psalms
Psalms and songs are found in much of the Bible, not only in the book of Psalms. Much in the psalms is to be taken figuratively. In Psalm 19:1-4, the sky is declared as speaking. Obviously, this is not to be taken literally, but rather should be understood as showing that God's creation itself teaches us about God. Similarly, in Psalm 65:12-13, the hills do not literally rejoice and the valleys do not literally shout and sing.

Apocalyptic
There are several books of the Bible which can properly be called apocalyptic. These are Ezekiel, Daniel, Zechariah, and of course, Revelation. Apocalypse means that something is revealed or unveiled. The way this is done is through highly figurative language. In Revelation, Christ is portrayed as a lamb (Revelation 5:6), as a child (Revelation 12:2-5), and as a conqueror on a white horse (Revelation 19:11). These are not literal depictions of the Son of God, but are representative images and should be understood in such a way. Indeed, some thing sin these books cannot literally exist:
And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition

Revelation 17:11 (KJV)

Comparisons
And of course, there a number of other uses of common figurative language, usually through the use of similes and metaphors in comparing two things. A simile is to compare two things using “like” or “as.”
And seeing the multitudes, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and downcast like sheep without a shepherd.

Matthew 9:36 (KJV)

The passage does not mean that the multitude were actual sheep that did not have a shepherd, but that they shared characteristics.

A metaphor is similar, but makes the comparison by stating that something is something else. For example, consider Psalm 144:1-2,
Blessed be the LORD my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight: My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and he in whom I trust; who subdueth my people under me.
The Lord is not a literal, physical fortress building or tower. The Lord is not a literal, physical shield. But can be described as such because of the protection that He provides His followers.

Yes, most of the Bible should be understood literally. But we must always be aware and watchful for when figurative language is used, that we may fully understand God's word and not fall into error.

Making a Choice

2010-02-09T14:18:00.000-08:00

We all make many choices each day. We seem to enjoy making decisions. Few of us would be satisfied with only one set of clothes. Few of us would be happy eating the same thing every day. Few of us would frequent a restaurant that did not have a choice of things on the menu, but forced you to eat whatever they felt like serving. We tend to not only like and want choice, but to demand it! However, when it comes to following God, many seem to resent that a choice has been offered to them. It is the choice to serve God in righteousness or to serve self and Satan in sin.

Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

Joshua 24:14-15 (KJV)

Joshua, near the end of his life, offers a choice to the people of Israel. They can choose to serve the Lord, or they can choose to sinfully turn aside to other gods. In the next verse, the people cry out that they will serve the Lord.

By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.

Hebrews 11:24-27 (KJV)

Moses, likewise, had a choice. He could continue to enjoy sin, or he could choose to turn his back on his earthly position and status by serving the Lord. He faithfully chose to follow after the Lord.

The same choice is offered to us, and we have the same options: serve God or don't. It is entirely up to each of us on an individual basis. God, in His wisdom (I Corinthians 1:25, Isaiah 55:9) has granted to each of us the choice serving Him in righteousness, of of serving self in sin. If we choose to live a life of sin and unrighteousness, God will permit it. He does not force us to follow Him and to walk in His ways. We are not forced to comply with His will. We cannot be forcibly converted to following Christ. It is something we must each choose to do.

Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment.

Ecclesiastes 11:9 (KJV)

And like any choice we make, there are consequences to face, no matter our decision. If we choose to not follow Christ, the consequences are that in some ways, we may have it easier in this life. We may have pleasures, friends, and temporary wealth stemming from that life of sin. And in eternity, if we choose that route, we will have torment, pain, and agony. (Mark 9:43-48)

"But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death."

Revelation 21:8 (KJV)

There are also consequences for choosing to follow Christ. Things in this life may be more difficult as we face persecution and trials. (II Timothy 3:12) However, there is a hope of eternal life in the presence of God if we decide to follow Christ.

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 6:23 (KJV)

God, in His wisdom has granted to us the gift of choice. We are not forced into service, but rather can choose to be a disciple of Christ. Instead of removing our will and ability to make decisions, God has permitted us to choose which path our life will follow. And in this way, He has granted us the ability to choose not only how we will live in this world, but where we will be for eternity.

So which decision will you make? Will you choose to devote yourself to sin and self, enjoying the passing pleasures of sin (Hebrews 11:25), or will you choose to devote yourself to Christ and enjoy an eternity of peace and bliss in the presence of God?

Studying with Others

2010-01-30T09:02:00.000-08:00

There are essentially three basic scenarios in which it is likely you will be studying with others. The first scenario is in a Bible class “at church.” The second is with other brethren at home in a less formal setting. The third is in trying to convert the unbeliever. It is worth considering what preparations should be made in advance to each of these types of group study.

In Bible Class
Typically, someone will be the teacher, the topic or book of the Bible has been chosen, and often there will be workbook or lesson sheets handed out in advance. Preparation and study on one's own time, however, is vital for the study to be of the most benefit. It is important for the student to spend time during the week in study of the subject or passage that has been chosen. If it has been studied thoroughly, then the basics will be well grasped by the time for class to begin, and in class it will be possible to delve more quickly into the matter at hand. Ideally, the students are as knowledgeable and studied as the teacher.

If it is a book or passage being studied, the student should read, re-read, and then read again. The student should come to class having an understanding of the passage's context and meaning. A student may find it helpful to make a list of questions or jot down things he or she does not understand and wishes to ask the teacher about the text.

If the class is studying a subject, the student should also study that subject as though he or she were studying independently. Be sure to understand and define what is being studied. Find passages (a concordance is useful here) that deal with the specific topic under consideration. Find Bible examples of the topic (for example, Jeroboam's golden calves if idolatry is the subject). Then look for less commonly talked about examples.

Do not forget the basics of Bible study when studying for a class. Do not limit your study to what is in the workbook or handouts, if such are being used. And always begin your study with prayer and supplication for wisdom and understanding.

In Private Studying with Brethren
Perhaps it is just you and another. Perhaps you are meeting in someone's home with several brethren. Regardless of which of these may be the case, it is common and good to study the scriptures with other Christians.

However, it is useful to have some general guidelines. Decide together what needs to be studied. This should be decided as far in advance as possible to allow everyone involved to study it privately. It is far more effective to study with others if everyone has had time to come to an understanding of it in advance.

Stay on topic. In less formal studies, there is often a tendency to wander from what is being studied. While it can occasionally be useful to briefly cover a side issue that is pertinent, it is important to remember what you had originally decided to study, as there is probably a reason it had come up in the first place.

Another thing that can be useful is not to set a time limit on the study. If at all possible, don't simply say, “we'll study for an hour and then go do something else.” It may be that that hour is all that will be needed. It is also possible that much more time will need to be devoted to the matter at hand. Have the willingness to devote more time and energy into a study if needed. Remember, it is God's word, and it should be important enough in our lives to give it our full attention.

Like all studies, remember to begin with prayer to the Lord. We must always prepare our hearts to seek the word of God.

A regularly scheduled study can be of benefit. My parents used to invite young people over for group studies once a month. These studies were of great benefit for me, my siblings, and others that we knew. They were edifying for those of us who were Christians, and they were an opportunity to invite those outside the body of Christ to a Bible study.

In Private Studying with Unbelievers
Hopefully this is something we all do. Opportunities abound, but we must be looking for them. Sometimes it is because someone will ask questions and we need to provide an answer. Sometimes it is because a group of people from one denomination or another will show up at your front door. And sometimes asking someone if they want to study will lead to a study. However it begins, there is opportunity to teach others the gospel.

It is good to be prepared in advance for studying with others. Sometimes you are given a heads-up about what will be studied. Other times you won't. Even if you do not have forewarning, you can still often be prepared. Talk to others and consider what subjects often come up. Common topics that need to be studied are faith, baptism, obedient works, Bible authority, and of course, anything that has to bear on salvation. Be knowledgeable enough about these things that you can study them with people without any warning. It may help to jot down notes in the front or back of your Bible on subjects such as these so as to always have pertinent passages at hand. I carry around a small notebook (3.5” x 5.5”) of notes with me, as my memory is poor.

Remember to stay on topic as you study. It does no one any good to be shifting from one subject to another so quickly that nothing gets fully explained or examined. It is also important to devote time to a passage before moving on to another one.

Remember the purpose of the study. It is not to know how much you know. It is not to prove the other person wrong. It is to win souls. Keep this always in your mind, and remember to speak with humility.

Do not become discouraged. It may be that you are asked a question you do not know the answer to. If that occurs, tell them that you aren't sure, and then study it and discuss it with them at the next opportunity. Never be afraid to admit ignorance: no one knows everything. It may be that after much studying with a person, they will not heed the gospel. If that happens, don't give up studying and teaching others.

Some Methods of Bible Study

2010-01-23T09:58:00.000-08:00

There are different ways of identifying different ways of studying the Bible. Usually, I think of there being three main approaches. The first is the text study. In a text study, a portion of scripture is examined (for example, the book of Acts or Romans 14). The second type of study is a topical study. In a topical study you look at a specific subject (for example, the apostle Paul or baptism). The third type of study is the word study, where a specific word is looked up and studied to see what the Biblical meaning is (examples may include love or edification). Each of these can have value if done correctly. We will look at each of these types of study, using the book of III John to explain and better understand each method.

The Text Study
The text-based study is one that is most commonly done in Bible classes, but should be done regularly by all Christians (both with other Christians and alone). It is important when studying a passage to remember the context it is found in. If possible, it should be established who wrote it, who it was written to, and what the dominant theme(s) is/are. Depending on the text, it can be useful to look at parallel accounts (such as the gospels) or other books which give a fuller setting and context (examining the appropriate passages in the books of Kings and Chronicles to better understand the minor prophets, for example). To use our example of III John, we find that the apostle John wrote it. He wrote it to Gaius (v. 1). And he wrote it largely to commend Gaius (vv. 5-8) and to condemn Diotrephes (vv. 9-11).

At this point, one would begin at the beginning and study through to the end. Two methods are commonly used in this endeavor. The most common is to exhaust one verse before moving on to the next. This has the advantages of arranging it in easy to handle sizes and of allowing the reader to make connections to other passages that may shed light on the verse at hand. For example, the first verse of III John would give opportunity to examine the respect due to one's elders and also the bond of love between Christian brethren.

The other method of studying from the beginning to the end is to look not so much at individual verses, but rather at sentences or paragraphs. For example, instead of looking at verse 5 by itself, you would look at verses 5-7 at the same time. This has the advantages of keeping the greater context in mind throughout the study, as well as not hitting the same points several times in a row (as the same sentence may continue for several verses).

Some questions to find answers to during a text study include:
1.Who wrote this book? Did he write anything else? What did he do?
2.Who is this book written to? And why was it written to them?
3.How can this passage apply to me?
4.How does this passage fit into the context of the rest of the Bible? Does my understanding contradict something else?

The Topical Study
The topical study will often be done in order to answer a question that is asked. For example, “what does the Bible say about reputation?” For this, you will often begin with a concordance looking up “reputation” (which will likely yield few results, by the way), and then at other associated phrases (such as “good name” or “good testimony”), each time seeing what the Bible has to say about it. This search may easily lead you to III John 12, where John commends Demetrius and the good reputation that he has. One would note that the good repor Demetrius has comes from other Christians, but also that his reputation is justified in that “the truth itself” speaks well of him. This is a good piece of information in understanding what reputation a Christian is supposed to have.

When looking at passages in a topical study, it is important not only to see the verse that mentions what is under study, but the context as well. In the study of Christian reputation, it would be worth looking at the preceding verses and seeing Diotrephes' desire to be “first,” and what that desire for making a name for himself has done to his relationship with Christ and other Christians. Once the pertinent information has been studied, one would then move on to another passage dealing with the topic in order to gain further insight. A topical Bible may be of value in a topical study.

Some questions to find answers to during a topical study include:
1.Have I found all the information on this subject that the Bible has? Are there other verses that pertain to the subject that I have not seen?
2.Have I exhausted this verse in regard to the subject being studied? Is there information I have not gleaned yet?
3.How does the conclusion I reach fit with the rest of scripture? Is it compatible or contradictory?
4.Have I looked at both commands/statements regarding it (“thou shalts” and “thou shalt nots”) and examples of men/women/places?

The Word Study
The word study is, on the one hand, one of the easiest to do. It is also, perhaps, the hardest to do well. A word study is often done to clear up confusion from a word that is immediately understood. Considering the view that many take regarding truth (that it is indefinite and variable), it may be worth examining the word “truth.” A common and easy place to start is with a lexicon or Hebrew/Greek-English dictionary. For example, one may look up “truth” in a Vine's Expository Dictionary and be directed to the entry for “True” which gives the variants on the original Greek word, including “truth.” There will be a definition provided, as well as passages that the word appears in. At this point the student will have a basic understanding of the word.

From here, it is simple to use a concordance (a Strong's, following the same numbered word, or a Young's by section) to look up each place that the word appears in scripture. In this way, you can see the word in context (for example, in III John 4, 8, and 12) each time it is used, and gain a more full understanding of what the word actually means. By the end of the study on truth, I think you would find that truth is not variable or changing based on perspective or perception. Instead, it is a rock-steady reality that is Divine in origin. Instead of truth changing to fit the person, it is Biblically clear that man must change to fit the truth.

Some questions to find answers to during a word study include:
1.Is there a parallel word in Greek to this Hebrew (or the other way around) word? Would this give me more information to better reach a conclusion?
2.Am I remaining with the same Greek/Hebrew word? Or am I following a different original word that is translated the same way into English?
3.What is the usage of this word in context? Am I trying to fit my understanding into the passage, or am I understanding the word because of the passage?
2.How can I apply this word and its meaning to my life in a way that will be best pleasing to God?

Imitation

2010-01-16T11:13:00.000-08:00

Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God

III John 1:11 (KJV)

I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you. For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me.

I Corinthians 4:14-16 (KJV)

That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

Hebrews 6:12 (KJV)

Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation

Hebrews 13:7 (KJV)

Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.

I Corinthians 11:1 (KJV)

For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.

John 13:15 (KJV)

The verses above encourage us to imitate some things. We are instructed to imitate that which is good. When something godly is done, we should strive to do such. Conversely, we are to avoid imitating those thing which are evil (that which is not approved by God). Paul encourages the Corinthians several times to imitate him, as he had previously taught them, and continued to teach them. However, he adds one restriction. They are only to imitate him in as much he imitates Christ. Paul, like all men, were fallible. Christ, however, is not. The Hebrew writer admonishes the reader to be imitators of those who receive Christ's promise of salvation. Which makes sense, really. If you want to be saved, follow in the footsteps of those are saved. Later in the book of Hebrews, the reader is encouraged to imitate the faith of elders. The last verse above is what was spoken by Christ after demonstrating humility and service to His apostles, and is His instruction to imitate Him in that way.

It is really quite simple: we are to imitate those godly things which are done by godly men, and most especially to imitate Christ. We are given many examples, first in scripture and also by godly brethren, of what we need to be doing.
On the other hand, the Bible also warns against imitating the wrong actions and the wrong people.

When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations.

Deuteronomy 18:9 (KJV)

Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

Hebrews 4:11 (KJV)

And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an example unto those that after should live ungodly;

II Peter 2:6 (KJV)

Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.

Jude 1:7 (KJV)

Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.

I Corinthians 10:11 (KJV)

In the above verses, Israel is instructed not to imitate the nations around them, but to remain faithful to the Lord. As Christians, we also are to adhere to this concept. The Hebrew writer again provides an example for us: this time of those who were unfaithful to the Lord. This example, however, is not one we should imitate, but instead should strive to do the opposite. Sodom and Gomorrah, with all of their sin, immorality, and wickedness, is set as an example for us to avoid, lest we too be destroyed. The last verse, in I Corinthians, wraps up a section of scripture that provides many examples we should not imitate.

So the question is, who do you imitate in your life? What actions are displayed in your life? Whose footsteps do you follow? And in like manner, what example are you setting for others? Would imitating your life help someone follow Christ and receive eternal life? Or is the example you set a hindrance to others?

Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

I Timothy 4:12-16 (KJV)

The One Hundredth Psalm

2010-01-01T13:50:00.001-08:00

There are 150 psalms. Some, like the 117th psalm, are very short. Others, like the 119th psalm, are very long. Two thirds of the way through is, of course, Psalm 100, a psalm of praise unto God. This short, five verse psalm instructs us in how to praise God and in why we should offer praises and thanksgiving to the Lord. It is worth our while to keep these things in mind as go throughout our lives, as we are to be always thankful to God for all that He has done (Colossians 3:17 I, Thessalonians 5:18).

Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.

Psalm 100:1 (KJV)

The psalm begins with instructions to all the lands (that is, all the earth). The instruction is simple: to shout joyfully to God. Have you ever been so happy, so full of rejoicing that you can not contain it, but have to loudly tell others? That is the sort of joy we should all have in the Lord. The latter part of this psalm gives us the reasons as to why we should be so joyful.

Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

Psalm 100:2 (KJV)

Two things are mentioned in this verse. The first is serving the Lord. Often when we serve someone, it is done grudgingly. Here, we are told that we should be glad to serve the Lord. Serving God is something that we should each want to do, and is something that we should each be excited to do. The second part of this verse tells us to come before Him with singing. To come before the Lord is to follow Him dutifully, being upright in His sight and so not separated from Him by sin. The singing in this verse most likely represents the idea, once again, of joy and gladness. Instead of wishing we could partake of sinful activities and thoughts, we should glad that we can have our sins forgiven, and so approach God. Also, as many of the psalms, some songs may be a form of prayer, and in this way (prayer) we approach God and speak to Him.

Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Psalm 100:3 (KJV)

First, this verse instructs us to know that the Lord is God. This is not simply an intellectual piece of information we are to store, but rather a fact that we are to base our lives, beliefs, and actions on. This is confirmed by the fact that God made us, we did not make ourselves. We belong to God, and are compared to sheep in this passage. That is, we follow the Lord, remain close to the Lord, and are protected and nurtured by the Lord.

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

Psalm 100:4 (KJV)

Again, we are instructed to draw close to God with thanksgiving. In this verse it is described as entering the gates and court of a building. It is not only when we are obviously and clearly presented with blessings from God that we are to praise Him and thank Him, but we should go to Him in praise. The impetus is on us to go to Him. We are told to be be thankful to Him in addition to praising Him. Praise and thanksgiving are very closely related. Praise to God will note the awe that is felt when His righteousness and works are seen. Thanksgiving to God is recognizing that all such things come from God, and being glad that the Lord has seen fit to bless us.

For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

Psalm 100:5 (KJV)

Here, in the last verse of the psalm, three reasons are given for offering the Lord praise and thanks. The first is that the Lord is good. While we might describe men and women as good, none can approach the perfect righteousness of God. To say that the Lord is good seems almost an understatement. It is a comfort to have a God that is good, and not one that is evil or twisted, is it not? The second reason is that the Lord's mercy (sometimes translated as love or lovingkindness) is everlasting. The clearest example of this love is, of course, our salvation. When we reach the end of our life, if we have diligently followed the Lord to the end, we are promised eternal life. And the third reason is that His truth endures. There has never been, and will never be, a time when the truth of God, contained in His holy word, the Bible, will not be true. It is perfect and absolute, and as such can be depended on. God will not suddenly change His mind and abandon the plans He has put in place.

How often do we offer God praise and thanksgiving? Once or twice a week? Once or twice a day? Once or twice an hour? No matter how often you may offer such to the Lord, He is owed more. Because of Him, we are. Because of Him, we can have hope. Because of Him, there are so many blessings to be thankful for. Let us all strive to draw close to God, to offer Him praise, and to thank Him for what He has so freely given to us.

Assembling

2009-12-28T07:21:00.000-08:00

And 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 ye see the day approaching.

Hebrews 10:24-25 (KJV)

There are a number of specific instructions given to mankind in the New Testament. Men and women are to believe (I John 3:16-23), repent and be baptized (Acts 2:38), grow in the faith (Hebrews 6:1-3), and a number of other things. One of these commands is to assemble. Or rather, we are forbidden from not assembling. The churches that we read about in the Bible met with much regularity. Acts 20:7-12 shows a church meeting on the first day of the week to partake of the Lord's Supper. Acts 2:46 shows that Christians met almost constantly (Not just a 2-3 times a week, but daily! How many today would be willing to assemble daily, I wonder?). The Lord has given us several purposes for the assembly, and if we choose not to gather together, we do not properly fulfill these tasks.

One of the more obvious purposes of the assembly is worship. While the assembly is not the sole worship we should offer to the Lord, it is one of the forms of worship required of the Christian. Acts 13:1-2, among other passages, shows this. If a person chooses to forsake the assembly, they choose to forsake one of the forms of worship required by the Almighty God.

Another clear purpose to the assembly is to learn and teach. I Timothy 4:13 is a command to public reading and teaching of scripture. Ephesians 5:18-21 and Colossians 3:16 are both passages which show how we are to teach one another in song. Most of the time we are assembled is spent teaching each other in one way or another. If we choose not to assemble ourselves, we choose to not teach or learn in this way. Much as forsaking the assembly is forbidden, lack of knowledge in regard to God's will is condemned.
My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.

Hosea 4:6 (KJV)

The assembly also serves as an encouragement. It can be difficult, at times, to truly serve Christ. Christians are often faced with discouragements and obstacles. Assembling with the saints, knowing that others face the same troubles, and helping one another through these trials is of great benefit. By his associations with other Christians, the apostle Paul was greatly encouraged (Romans 1:12, II Corinthians 7:4, Colossians 2:2, etc.). Moreover, not only will a person leave encouraged, but will encourage and strengthen others. In this way, through the assembly, we help others live a Christ-like life, that more may have eternal life.

Sometimes people have legitimate reasons to not be at the assembly (Luke 14:5), but more often than not is seems that people are willing to seize any excuse to forsake the assembly. In so doing, a number of people are caused hurt.

First, you hurt yourself by choosing to forsake the assembly. You choose to give up teaching and learning, encouragement, and choose to not worship the Lord as He wants to be worshiped. Rather than building up your strength and growing as a Christians, over time you will instead be weakened, even to the point of falling away from Christ (Galatians 5:4).

Second, you hurt others in the congregation. Instead of being an encouragement, the brethren are discouraged by the absence of those who choose not to assemble. Instead of being encouraged, the preacher and song leader are discouraged by a lack of care for God's word. Instead of having your knowledge shared with them, the brethren receive less teaching.

Third, if you have a family, you hurt them. Your children do not learn to place Christ in their lives as a priority, but rather as something that can be skipped when it seems inconvenient, and are discouraged in the faith (Colossians 3:20). The same if you have an unbelieving spouse. Your extended family will often see a lack of assembling as a lack of focus on Christ, perhaps even to the point of seeing it as hypocrisy. You do your family no favors by choosing to not assemble each and every time.

Fourth, you hurt the work of the local congregation. In the assembly, there are fewer who will take part. In growth, many will look at the church and see one that is dwindling, not growing, and so not take the time to learn God's word.

We cannot pick and choose which of the Lord's commands we obey. The command to assemble is as binding on us the Lord's commands to believe, love, and obey. In choosing to not assemble, we choose to disregard the Lord's command and we choose to discourage and place a stumbling block in front of others.

Fallen Outside the Promised Land

2009-12-19T13:15:00.000-08:00

The book of Exodus and the first dozen or so chapters of Numbers record the time when the Israelites left their captivity and slavery in Egypt and marched towards the promised land of Canaan. Before leaving Egypt they saw first hand the awesome power of the Almighty in the plagues against Egypt. When they were leaving their servitude they were exposed to God's power and protection when they crossed the Red Sea on dry land. Along the way they were led by God by means of pillars of fire and cloud. Along the way they were given God's commandments. Along the way they saw evidence of God's displeasure with idolatry and rebellion. In the thirteenth chapter of Numbers, a dozen spies are sent into Canaan to search out the land. They returned with reports and evidence of a bountiful land, where the people of Israel could be richly blessed. Ten of the spies also returned with reports of the mighty men in the land. And in Numbers 14:1-10 Israel refuses to enter the promised land. As punishment for their rebellion against the Lord, they are caused to wander for 40 years in the wilderness until every one of them over the ave of 20, except for Joshua and Caleb, died and fell in the wilderness, outside of the promised land that they had come so close to reaching.

It is sometimes difficult for us to understand how the Israelites could have reacted that way. After all, they had been continually exposed to God's awesome power and protection. They had been shown the wrath of God against those who chose to rebel against Him. They had long known that the land had been promised to them. And yet they chose to not enter the promised land! And we look at it and marvel at their unwillingness.

Yet how often do we, and those around us, display the same attitude, and so fall outside of the promised land?

Israel knew they had been promised the land, and all they had to do was be willing to follow the Lord's instructions. Christians are likewise given such a promise. Christians have the promise of a heavenly country. (Hebrews 11:13-16) This promise, the promise of heaven and eternal life in the presence of God, is a great and precious promise. (II Peter1:4) And all we have to do is be willing to put our faith in the Lord and do the small acts required of us. So many will fall short of entering the promised land because of their unwillingness to submit obediently to the will of God.

Many balk at the idea of true repentance (Acts 3:19, 17:30): of putting the old man to death and putting on Christ. (Colossians 3:9, Galatians 3:27) Instead, many want to remain in their sinful lives, enjoying the passing pleasures of sin, yet still grasping salvation. Because of their continued walking in sin (whether it be gambling, drinking sexual immorality, foul language, greed, or any other sin), they will fall in the wilderness, never reaching the promised land that they might otherwise be so close to.
Many more refuse to submit to the Lord in baptism. (Acts 2:38, 22:16; John 2:5; I Peter 3:21) There any number of passages in the New Testament which teach that it is necessary to be baptized (that is, immersed) in order to have sin washed away and be granted salvation. Just as so many Israelites refused to obediently submit to God and fell in the wilderness, so will those who refuse to submit to the Lord in baptism.

Many fail to remain faithful to the Lord. (Matthew 24:13; Revelation 2:10) Many are appeased by being told that it is impossible to surrender salvation once the Lord has granted it. It is certainly true that nothing can forcibly separate us from this gift that has been granted. (John 10:28; Romans 8:39) It is also certainly true, however, that any person may choose to turn his or her back on God and surrender the gift that they have received. (Luke 8:13; Hebrews 6:6) Just as many of those among Israel's number had been faithful to the Lord for a time, but then turned aside and fell in the wilderness, many today will serve faithfully for a time, only to fall short of the promised land.

Just as most of those who were accountable fell in the wilderness, so most today will fall short and perish. (Matthew 7:14; Luke 13:22-25) The only alternative to this is to be like Joshua and Caleb. If we wish to enter the promised land, we must be wholeheartedly trusting and faithful. We must be willing to submit to the commands of the Lord, even when it is most difficult. Like the other ten spies, Joshua and Caleb saw the sons of Anak and the fortified cities. But unlike the other spies and the rest of the Israelites, they had the faith to do what was required of them to receive the promise.

Imagine the way it must have felt to be an Israelite and be told that although you had come so far and gotten so close to the promise, you had fallen short and would perish without ever setting foot in Canaan. If you do not faithfully obey the Lord, you will find yourself in much the same place come judgment day. It is with this in mind that the Hebrew writer warns Christians to live faithfully. (Hebrews 3:7-4:10) Moreover, the writer tells us exactly when we must be willing to place our faith in the Lord and serve Him obediently. In Hebrews 3:7-11, Hebrews 3:15, and Hebrews 4:7, three times in this short passage, the Hebrew writer states that today is the day.

You are not guaranteed another day. You are not guaranteed so much as another minute. And so it is important to examine yourself and see which path you are following. Is your life reflective of those who fell in the wilderness? Is your faith less than wholehearted? Is your faith and trust in the Lord weak and incomplete? Are you unwilling to obediently serve the Lord when it is difficult or appears perilous? Or are you more similar to Joshua and Caleb? Are you wholeheartedly following the Lord, putting complete trust in Him and His power? Are you willing to follow the Lord even when it is tough and everyone else around you opposes you?

When the Lord returns and many enter the promised land, will you be one of those permitted to enter? Or will you perish, having fallen in the wilderness and never able to enter the land of rest?

Some Lesser Known Judges

2009-12-12T19:19:00.000-08:00

Beside the better known judges of Israel such as Gideon, Deborah, and Samson, there are some judges for whom only scant information is given, with some given only one short verse about them in scripture. Nonetheless, there are lessons we can learn from these leaders and saviors of Israel.

And after him came Shamgar the son of Anath, who struck down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad; and he also saved Israel.

Judges 3:31 (NASB)

An oxgoad is essentially a pointed stick. Shamgar struck down 600 Philistines with such a tool. If we learn no other lesson, we should see the power of God in this. It is certainly not usual for a man, no matter how physically strong he may be, to defeat 600 men with a pointed stick. Only by the power of God would Shamgar have been able to accomplish this.

Now after Abimelech died, Tola the son of Puah, the son of Dodo, a man of Issachar, arose to save Israel; and he lived in Shamir in the hill country of Ephraim. And he judged Israel twenty-three years. Then he died and was buried in Shamir.

Judges 10:1-2 (NASB)

Throughout Israelite history, the Israelites often found themselves confronted by larger and better equipped armies. Often when this happened, battle would be waged out of the hill country of Ephraim, where a smaller army could hide, strike from, and wage a guerrilla war against their oppressors. It seems perhaps that Tola waged such a war, and by it saved Israel. Again, the hand of God is seen in this. It also appears that Tola remained local in his work, and did not seek greater glory by moving from Shamir to a larger city or more prominent location.

And after him, Jair the Gileadite arose, and judged Israel twenty-two years. And he had thirty sons who rode on thirty donkeys, and they had thirty cities in the land of Gilead that are called Havvoth-jair to this day. And Jair died and was buried in Kamon.

Judges 10:3-4 (NASB)

With Jair we can learn a lesson in influence. Jair had 30 sons who in turn ruled over 30 cities, which became known as the cities of Jair. Through Jair's influence over and upbringing of his sons, and because of his son's prominent positions, the influence of Jair was felt by a great many people. We each have influence on others in our lives, and it is important that we influence people to follow after the Lord, and not after the things of this world.

Now Ibzan of Bethlehem judged Israel after him. And he had thirty sons, and thirty daughters whom he gave in marriage outside the family, and he brought in thirty daughters from outside for his sons. And he judged Israel seven years. Then Ibzan died and was buried in Bethlehem.

Judges 12:8-10 (NASB)

We learn a lesson from Ibzan regarding who can accomplish great things for the glory of God. Bethlehem was never a major city, with few people of great repute (most notably David and of course Jesus the Christ) being associated with the city. Nonetheless, Ibzan came from Bethlehem, apparently remained in Bethlehem, and nonetheless worked the Lord's work. We also see again the way one man can influence many. Through the marriages of his children to men and women from outside the clan, he would have expanded his influence, and been able to use this as a means to turn people back to God.

Now Elon the Zebulunite judged Israel after him; and he judged Israel ten years. Then Elon the Zebulunite died and was buried at Aijalon in the land of Zebulun.

Judges 12:11-12 (NASB)

When great heroes of the Bible are remembered, few are from Zebulun. Zebulun was a region often associated with idolatry and intermarriage with those outside of God's chosen people. Nonetheless, God selected Elon the Zebulunite to lead Israel. No matter how humble our origins may be, all can be effective in furthering the Lord's work.

Now Abdon the son of Hillel the Pirathonite judged Israel after him. And he had forty sons and thirty grandsons who rode on seventy donkeys; and he judged Israel eight years. Then Abdon the son of Hillel the Pirathonite died and was buried at Pirathon in the land of Ephraim, in the hill country of the Amalekites.

Judges 12:13-15 (NASB)

In Abdon we see something of an opposite to Elon. Here is a man who seems to be a man of standing and wealth. Rather than choosing to set his heart on such earthly treasures, Abdom led Israel according to God's will. Again, it appears that war was waged in the hill country. This time by a man who it seems would have given up much to engage in such an activity. We cannot allow possessions or the things of this world to keep us from doing the Lord's work.

What Did Other Bible People Teach About Baptism?

2009-12-04T17:31:00.000-08:00

In recent weeks we have briefly examined what was taught about baptism by Jesus and by two of His apostles, Peter and Paul. This week we will consider what others in the New Testament taught regarding baptism as the conclusion of this series of articles.

And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.

Acts 22:16 (KJV)

These were some of the words spoken to Paul by Ananias when Paul was converted. The account is first found in Acts 9. The Lord gave instructions to Ananias to go to Paul, and Ananias complied. In speaking to Paul these things, Ananias did as the Lord wanted. And what the Lord commanded was baptism. Ananias was not instructing baptism because he though it was a neat idea, but because it was the Lord's will.

We also see in these instructions that baptism washes away sins. Baptism is not something done as a symbol that one has already had his or her sins removed, but is faithful obedience to have sins removed by God.

This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

Acts 18:25-26 (KJV)

This passage, if nothing else, should certainly show the importance of baptism and of holding a correct understanding of baptism. Apollos was a man who was dedicated, zealous, and knowledgeable. However, his understanding of baptism was not what is should have been. This was important enough that Aquila and Priscilla found it necessary to explain the Lord's instructions on baptism to him. An incomplete or incorrect understanding or teaching on baptism is unacceptable to the Lord, and it should be unacceptable to those who diligently strive to serve Christ.

Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?

Matthew 3:13-14 (KJV)

John had, of course, been teaching and practicing what was described as the baptism of John. One of the things worth noting in this passage is what John expresses here: the need to be baptized. He didn't state that it would be preferable to be baptized by Christ, but expressed need. In this passage we see that Christ found it necessary to be baptized. We see that John expresses that baptism is necessary. The conclusion that should be easily reached is that baptism is, in fact, necessary.

Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit.

Hebrews 6:1-3 (KJV)

The Hebrew writer, in giving instructions on first principles, included doctrine (teaching) on baptism. When we consider the essential nature of repentance (Acts 2:38, II Peter 3:9), of faith (Hebrews 11:6), of the apostles laying on hands (Acts 8:4-24), of the resurrection (I Corinthians 15) and of God's judgment and the eternal consequences thereof (Matthew 25:32-46), it should become clear that baptism is as important and essential.

Moreover, as it is included as one of the first principles, one of the few thing specifically so named in the Bible, we should all be able to come to an understanding and acceptance of it relatively quickly and easily. It should not be a subject in which we spend years of study to understand: it is something that we should be able to grasp and then obey. Some would seem to require great effort and diligence in explaining why the things stated in Scripture about baptism are not to be taken at face value and as they are most naturally and easily understood. The Holy Spirit, through the inspired writer, tells us that it is one of the basics and easily understood.

We have considered what Jesus Christ, the Son of God, taught and practiced regarding baptism. We have briefly looked at what one of His apostles, Peter, taught and practiced when it came to baptism. We examined the apostle Paul's instructions and obedience to baptism. And this week we have looked at what was taught and done by other Christians. Hopefully this series of articles has been of benefit in understanding the nature and purpose of baptism, and in instructing others in what the word of God has to say on such an important subject.

What Did Paul Teach About Baptism? (Part II)

2009-11-30T06:47:00.000-08:00

In recent weeks we have briefly examined what was taught about baptism by Jesus and also by Peter. This week we continue looking at what the apostle Paul practiced and taught in regards to baptism.

Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:

Romans 6:3-5 (KJV)

In this passage, Paul clearly teaches that baptism unites us with Christ, specifically, Christ's death, and by extension, His resurrection. To be partakers of the blessings of Christ's sacrifice, one must be baptized. We also see that baptism is equated to a burial, which is simply one more\e piece of evidence pointing to baptism being immersion in water, not sprinkling or pouring. In addition to the word itself (meaning “to dip”), the context continually portrays baptism in terms of immersion.

Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.

I Corinthians 1:13-17 (KJV)

Baptism must be into Christ. If we are baptized as a follower of any other, we fail. This passage is often quoted as “proof” that Paul didn't teach baptism. Yet, in this passage we learn that Paul was baptized and that Paul baptized others. As for the contention that Paul did not teach baptism to the Corinthians, the explanation can be found later in the epistle in I Corinthians 3:6. Paul had gone to plant the seed, and we see that the Corinthians obeyed more than Paul anticipated.

For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

I Corinthians 12:13 (KJV)

To become part of the body of Christ, regardless of background, one must be baptized. Conversely, if you aren't baptized, you aren't part of the body of Christ. As the body is synonymous with the church and the saved (I Corinthians 12:27), bot having been baptized means that a) a person isn't saved and b) a person isn't part of the church, Christ's followers.

For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.

Galatians 3:27 (KJV)

This is a simple, straightforward statement. To put on Christ, you must be baptized. If you have not been baptized, you have not put on Christ.

There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

Ephesians 4:4-5 (KJV)

Each thing in this passage is easily recognizable as necessary and essential to Christianity. Each thing in this passage is also easily understood as being part of the unity of the faith and of the faithful. Baptism no less than any other item mentioned in this passage.

In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

Colossians 2:11-12 (KJV)

Here baptism is put as serving the same purpose that circumcision served under the Old Covenant. In the Old Covenant, circumcision was the mark of one of God's people and formed a dividing line between them and everyone else. Under the New Covenant, baptism identifies the believer and serves as the dividing line between those who are God's and those who are not.

Again, we also see that baptism is identified as a burial.

As for those who would contend that baptism is wholly a work done by man, consideration of this passage shows otherwise. Baptism is the means chosen by God for men and women to receive the salvation and spiritual blessings given by God. It is, in no way, “earning” salvation through works.

Next week, Lord willing, we will look at what other people in the Bible had to say on the subject of baptism.

What Did Paul Teach About Baptism?

2009-11-22T12:09:00.000-08:00

In recent weeks we have briefly examined what was taught about baptism by Jesus and also by Peter. This week we begin looking at what the apostle Paul practiced and taught in regards to baptism. Next week, Lord willing, we will consider more of what Paul instructs us regarding baptism.

And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.

Acts 9:17-18 (KJV)

The Lord appeared to Paul on the road to Damascus. Paul was told to go into the city and he would be given instructions on what he must do. (Acts 9:6) When he arrives in the city, he is met by Ananias and is baptized. One of the things which was required of Paul was baptism. Just as the Lord required Paul to be baptized, we must be baptized as well.

When Paul relates this even in Acts 22:1-21, he records that he was baptized that his sins would be washed away. While many speak of Paul being converted on the road to Damascus, the fact is that he did not convert and have his sins removed until he was already in Damascus, and submitted to the Lord in baptism.

And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.

Acts 16:14-15 (KJV)

First, we see that Lydia paid attention to what Paul taught. And we see that her reaction to what Paul taught was to be baptized. Evidently, part of the instruction given by Paul regarded baptism. Second, we see that Lydia observed that baptism was part of being faithful to the Lord. Just as Jesus had taught baptism, so did Paul. And in obeying this command, Lydia did not follow Paul, but Christ.

And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.

Acts 16:31-33 (KJV)

In verse 30 of Acts 16, the Philippian jailer asked what he must do to be saved. Paul and Silas instruct him to believe, and then baptized him. Faith is essential to salvation. However, we are not saved by faith alone (James 2:24), but through our faithful obedience and submission to the will of God. The faith being spoken of here is not a superficial belief, but a deep faith of one who is willing to act on it. To this end, they command the Philippian jailer to be baptized, and he and his household obeys the gospel.

As noted last week when observing the baptism of Cornelius and his household, the term does not inherently mean that there were small children or infants in the household. Once again, notice how faith is stressed in the instructions given by Paul. Faith is necessary to truly submit to the lord and obey in baptism.

And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue. And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.

Acts 18:7-8 (KJV)

In this passage we see Paul preaching. Paul's preaching is received, by some, with belief. Based on that faith, many of the Corinthians are baptized. It seems clear that Paul's preaching of the gospel included baptism, as they responded to his teaching. Again, “with all his house” does not necessarily imply that children or infants were baptized. We see once again that it is those who hear the word that was preached by Paul and believe it that were baptized.

He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

Acts 19:2-6 (KJV)

There are several things about baptism we can learn from this passage. First, there was a difference between the baptism of John and Christ's baptism, with baptism into Christ being obviously superior. As we see here, it was necessary for them to receive baptism into Christ. Second, we see that baptism is once again performed by the authority and will of the Lord Jesus. Paul did not give this instruction to the Ephesians of his own accord, but rather, passed on the instructions and performed the actions as required by Christ. We also see that the spiritual gifts from the Holy Spirit did not come at the moment of immersion or conversion, but from the laying on of an apostle's hands. As the apostles have long since passed from this earth, we cannot expect to receive the spiritual gifts shown here upon our conversion.

This week we considered Paul's teaching and actions regarding baptism in the book of Acts. Lord willing, next week we will examine what Paul taught on the subject in his letters. Hopefully by now you are seeing the uniformity of teaching and practice among Christ and His disciples on the subject of baptism.

What Did Peter Teach About Baptism? (Part II)

2009-11-18T10:45:00.000-08:00

Last week we began looking at what the apostle Peter taught regarding baptism. The week before that we looked at the actions and teaching of Christ on the subject. This week we continue looking at what Peter has to show us about this matter.

While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

Acts 10:44-48 (KJV)

This passage is part of a much larger context that covers the entirety of chapter ten as well as most of chapter eleven. I encourage you to read that entire portion of scripture before reading the comments below.

One of the first things we note is that Cornelius was a gentile. This is important as up to that point only Jews and proselytes had obeyed the gospel. Much of this passage has to do with the fact that salvation is open and available to all men and women, regardless of their background, nationality, race, culture, or ancestry. As we see in this passage, baptism and salvation is available, as shown by the Holy Spirit falling upon these gentile individuals.

It is worth noting that Peter commanded that they be baptized. One of the things that can be quickly seen is that when something is commanded in scripture, it is because it is absolutely essential. We are commanded to have faith (I John 3:23), and understand that belief is essential to our salvation. We cannot choose which commandments of God we want to follow: all are equally binding and necessary. And as Peter here is speaking, and commanding, according to the will of God (Matthew 28:18-20, II Timothy 3:16), this command to be baptized is necessary in order to follow Christ.

And this commandment was not simply given to Cornelius and his household, but is equally binding to all. To take an example from the paragraph above, John did not personally write to me or you and state that the Lord's command is to believe, but that does not mean that we assume that this command was only for those John addressed his letter to. God, not being a respecter of persons (Acts 10:34) has made His will equally binding upon all mankind.

Some would look at the fact that the entire household of Cornelius was baptized as proof of infant baptism. This, however, makes an assumption that there were infants and/or small children in Cornelius' household. It is entirely possible to have en entire household that does not contain infants. I have known any number of families, even large families where the entire extended family lived under one roof, where there were no small children. To make the assumption that “household” necessarily means there were children is illogical.

The assumption that infant baptism is taught in this passage also fails to fit into the text itself. We can see was baptized: they were one who had heard the word of God and, in this case, upon whom the Holy Spirit had fallen.

The capacity to hear and understand is essential in order to be baptized. Without knowledge of what the Lord wants, one cannot follow Him. Without understanding, one cannot apply the Lord's will to his or her life. Without hearing the word of God which gives knowledge and understanding, how could anyone know about baptism to begin with?

We also see that in this example, the Holy Spirit had granted gifts to those that heard the word. When Paul discusses spiritual gifts in the twelfth through fourteenth chapters of I Corinthians, he writes that understanding is necessary and essential for properly using those gifts. (I Corinthians 14:15-17) If the household of Cornelius contained infants, then those infants, though incapable of understanding, were given gifts which required understanding. This is illogical.

And we see that is those who heard the word and received the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:47) that were baptized. It is inconsistent and unreasonable to assume that infants, small children, or others who were unable to understand the word and will of God were baptized in this instance.

It is also, perhaps, necessary to make a note on the Holy Spirit coming upon these individuals before they were baptized. There are only two instances in the New Testament of the Holy Spirit falling upon people in this way. The first is in Acts 2, to indicate that the apostles were accepted by God and what they spoke was by His will and authority. Here we see a similar purpose: to indicate God's acceptance of gentiles into the faith.

Next week, Lord willing, we will begin looking at what the apostle Paul had to say about the subject of baptism.

What Did Peter Teach About Baptism?

2009-11-07T08:38:00.000-08:00

Last week we looked at what Jesus Christ taught about baptism. This week, we will spend a bit of space looking at what the apostle Peter, in fulfilling the command Christ gave to him and the other apostles (Matthew 28:18-20), taught on the subject of baptism.

When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)

John 4:1-2 (KJV)

Last week we noted how it was with Christ's authority and approval that His disciples baptized others. And even though Simon Peter is not specifically mentioned here, it is almost impossible to not picture Peter as one of the disciples that was baptizing others. Especially since so often we see Peter at the forefront of following Jesus. It is thus strongly implied in this passage that Peter baptized others, setting us an example to follow. If not in this case, then it is certain that he would have followed the Lord's command in Matthew 28 and Mark 16 to baptize others.

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Acts 2:38 (KJV)

On the day of Pentecost, Peter delivers the first gospel sermon after the resurrection of Christ. In this sermon he speaks of the Christ and of the crucifixion, and many, in turn believe that Jesus, who they had just crucified a short time before, is the Christ. Convicted of their sin, they want to know what they need to do to have their sins forgiven. Peter tells them two things. First, they must repent. Repentance is to turn from one course of action in the direction of a completely different course. Where once they had been opposed to Christ, now they must be dedicated to Him and His cause. The second thing he tells them is to be baptized. The conjunction “and” is clear: both are equally necessary to have the remission of sins.

Some would claim that “for the remission of sins” means that one must be baptized because a person's sins are already forgiven. If such is the case, then one must repent after conversion, not before, and because one's sins are already forgiven. That simply doesn't work. Also, several statements are made in scripture of things that occur “for” the remission or forgiveness of sins. Matthew 26:28 tells us that Christ;s blood was shed for the remission of sins. Acts 10:43 is sometimes translated as faith being “for the remission of sins.” In Acts 2:38, Peter simply teaches that if we wish to have our sins remitted we must repent of our sin and be baptized.

By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a-preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:

I Peter 3:19-21 (KJV)

In this passage, Peter compares two things: the salvation of Noah and his family by water and baptism. The account of Noah and the ark is found in Genesis 6-8. It is familiar to most people. While the rest of the world was sinful, Noah chose to obey the Lord, and thus was saved by not being submerged by the flood. Peter begins with referencing this, and then states that baptism is a “like figure” or “antitype.” The idea of an antitype is that of being similar, but opposite in some ways. Baptism is an antitype to Noah and the flood in that Noah was saved by not being submerged, and in baptism one is saved by being submerged.

Even if the idea of the antitype is difficult to understand, Peter makes a simple and straightforward statement that should be hard to misunderstand. He clearly states that “baptism doth also now save us.” It is hard to be plainer than that. Baptism is for our salvation.

The phrase “the answer of a good conscience toward God” is sometimes problematic for people. This does not mean that a person is baptized because their sins are forgiven. But rather, one chooses to obey the Lord and follow Him because A) he or she has a conscience that wants to follow the Lord and B) that his or her clean conscience will accurately reflect truth. It is possible to have a clean conscience and not be following the Lord (Acts 23:1).

And so we can consider those things which Peter did and taught regarding baptism. First, we see that Peter baptized others, by the authority of Christ, with Christ's approval, and by Christ's command. Second, we see that Peter taught that baptism was necessary to have sins removed. It is as essential as repentance from sin is. Third, Peter taught that baptism saves us. Without being baptized we cannot have salvation. Fourth, Peter teaches that a person with a good conscience, who wants to please the Lord, will be baptized.

Last week we saw that Christ taught, approved of, and authorized baptism. This week we see that Peter, one of Christ's most prominent apostles, baptized and taught baptism to others. Next week, Lord willing, we will consider what Paul had to say about baptism and will look at Paul's actions regarding baptism.

What Did Jesus Teach About Baptism?

2009-10-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

There are those would teach that baptism is not essential to salvation. These individuals will usually teach that faith alone is necessary, and that Christ never taught baptism. Let us then consider some of the words and actions of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, regarding baptism and whether or not it is necessary.

Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Matthew 3:13-17 (KJV)

There are also accounts of this even in Mark 1:9-11 and Luke 3:21-22. In this passage, Christ is setting an example for His followers. The reason given for this baptism was to fulfill all righteousness. Jesus, being sinless, did not need to repent have his sins washed away. But in order to fulfill righteousness, that is, to do all which the Father required, Jesus submitted himself to baptism. If our Lord saw the need to be baptized, we should too. It is also worth noting that the Lord had to come up out of the water. The implication is that in order to be baptized, he had to go into water deep enough that it could be reasonably called “going down into” it. The implication, in addition to the word baptism (baptisma - consisting of the processes of immersion, submersion and emergence, according to Vine) itself, is that it is submersion, not pouring or sprinkling.

And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV)

In this passage, Christ states that He has all authority. That is important to the context, because He is about to issue some commands to His disciples in what is often called the “Great commission.” He commands them to teach and baptize. Most people would happily and quickly admit that learning the gospel of our Lord is necessary for salvation. Also necessary to be His disciple is to be baptized. Being baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is to be baptized by the authority of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and with their full approval and acceptance. In other words, the command to baptize (and, thusly, be baptized) is given with the full backing of God.

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Mark 16:15-16 (KJV)

This passage, parallel to Matthew 28:18-20, is short and simple to understand, yet many choose not to. The disciples are told to go and preach the gospel. They are then told two things which must both occur for salvation. First, that belief is necessary. Almost no one argues that faith is unessential to salvation. Faith is required by God. This faith must be active and living (James 2:14-26), that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God (Matthew 16:19), that God is and that He rewards those who seek Him (Hebrews 11:6), and in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (I Corinthians 15:1-34). It is also stated here that one must be baptized to be saved. Just as in Romans 10:9-13, where both faith and confession are necessary for salvation, so we see here that both faith and baptism are necessary to grasp the salvation which has been offered by God. As for the fact that a lack of baptism (only a lack of faith) is named as leading to damnation, consider this: one cannot be be Biblically baptized without faith. Without faith, one will never choose to put on Christ (Galatians 3:27), so it is rather unnecessary to state here that its lack will lead to damnation.

When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)

John 4:1-2 (KJV)

This verse is occasionally named to teach that Jesus did not baptize anyone. To be completely honest, I do not know if the Lord ever did baptize anyone Himself. But there is a point made here about whose authority the baptizing was happening. The disciples, being learners and followers of the Christ, were, with full knowledge of their Master, baptizing others. Since the Pharisees knew the baptisms were attributed to Jesus, it is safe to say that the Lord, who is God and thus, omniscient, knew His disciples were baptizing others. We see no efforts to stop this from happening, and thus we see not only knowledge, but also approval and consent to their actions. Jesus approved of His disciples baptizing others.

Just from these four short passages we learn several things about baptism: First, that Jesus Himself was baptized. If our Teacher and Master was baptized, shouldn't we be as well? Second, that baptism fulfills righteousness. As we all (hopefully) want to stand righteous before God, should we not submit to baptism that we might also fulfill all righteousness? Third, that baptism is immersion. Fourth, that Christ commanded His apostles to teach and baptize all people. There is no exception made, but all must learn of Christ and be baptized. Fifth, that Christ had the authority to command baptism, and that the Father and Holy Spirit also likewise authorized and approved of it. It is not simply the will of the Son that we are baptized, but of the Father and the Son as well. Sixth, that each of us must be baptized to be saved. It is as necessary as faith to our salvation, and without it, we stand condemned. Seventh, that baptism must follow faith. It cannot precede the ability to hear, understand, and accept the teaching of the gospel. Eighth, that in Jesus' lifetime, He knew of and approved His disciples baptizing others and accepted that it be attributed to Himself, as it was done by His authority and will.

So did Jesus ever teach or show that baptism is necessary to be His disciple? Did Jesus teach that baptism is acceptable? Did Jesus teach that baptism is essential to salvation? He sure did!

What Do You Do?

2009-10-24T13:29:00.000-07:00

The chances are, you have been asked this question at some point in your life, usually in reference to your particular occupation. It is a question that we must also be able to answer as Christians. Each of us has a role which we must play. Each of us has abilities and talents that should be put to use in furthering the cause of Christ.

Often when we consider this question, we limit our thinking to the assembly. In so doing, we only come up with a short list of things that we can do: preacher, song leader, prayer leader, announcement giver, Lord's Supper tray passer, and teacher. The fact of the matter is that there are far more things that as Christians we can and should be doing. Each of us have roles to play outside the assembly that are as important, if not more so.

We should each be an evangelist, sharing the gospel of Christ with those outside of the church (II Timothy 4:5). We should each be a servant, to the Lord and to one another (Romans 12:7). We should each teach, whether we are teaching in a class setting, teaching our children, teaching brethren, or teaching the unbeliever (Romans 12:7). We should each be exhorting the brethren, encouraging and helping to gain strength in the Lord (Romans 12:8). We should each be giving to the work of the Lord, whether in the contribution on Sundays or in individually helping those people who have need (Romans 12:8). We should each be cheerfully merciful, forgiving and showing kindness and love (Romans 12:8).

Not only should each of us be doing each of these things, but we all have particular strengths that make us more suited to specific roles and tasks. Some people have difficulty teaching, but are excellent at seeing to the needs of others. Others have difficulty discerning where needs are, but are well able to exhort the brethren. Some people have more difficulty exhorting the brethren, but easily approach those outside the body of Christ. Some are well able to lead singing, yet have difficulty in leading prayer. Some lead prayers well and capably, yet have difficulty preaching. While we are not excused from doing the other tasks because they are more difficult, we should be striving to effectively use what abilities and talents we have in the way that best pleases the Lord.

I Corinthians 12 shows us clearly that there are many different tasks that need doing, and no dishonor in performing any of them. It is easy to look at certain roles (usually those done in the assembly, particularly leading singing and preaching) and see them as being the “greater” roles to play. The simple fact is that all the work is equally necessary.

So what do you do? Have you been teaching? Exhorting? Serving? Merciful? Praying? Or have you been slacking off and not fulfilling your role? Have you not been using your abilities, skills, and talents to further the cause of Christ? If not, then now is the time to start. Sometimes we become so focused on the assembly that we forget that we each have work to do during the other 164 hours a week. What do you do?

"Come As You Are"

2009-10-16T08:34:00.000-07:00

It's not too uncommon to see a sign outside a building belonging to a religious organization or to hear someone say, “Come as you are!” to encourage people to join them. Usually what people mean is “Come as you are and we will accept you! No changes will be necessary and we believe Jesus will accept you!” The problem is not so much with the phrase “come as you are” as with this common usage.

Anyone Can Be Saved
When a person first hears the gospel, and then chooses to believe and obey, they can be saved. We see many men and women in the Bible who were among the most sinful people imaginable who converted to Christ, and their conversion was accepted as sincere and authentic by man and more importantly by God. Consider Simon the Sorcerer in Acts 8. Here was a man full of pride, deceiving people, and committing acts forbidden by God. Yet he heard the gospel preached by Philip, believed the word of God, and was baptized. We can also look at the example of Paul who in I Timothy 1:15 describes himself of the chief of sinners. All sinners can choose to turn to Christ. Sinners who repent of their past misdeeds can be forgiven of their sins. Truly this is a great gift!

We Should Accept our Station
I Corinthians 7:17 teaches us that we should remain as we are in life. This is not teaching, however, that we should remain in sinful situations or continue living lives of sin. This is not to say that we should remain spiritually where we are when we first obey the gospel. If you consider the context, we are looking at social situation and standing. Slaves, free men, those living in Jewish society, and those living in gentile society should remain as their placed, not seeking to alter their situation. This is a teaching of acceptance and contentment, a teaching that all people can be useful in the work, and a teaching that our focus should not be on the things of this world, but rather spiritual things. We must not misuse this passage to show that remaining in sinful situations or continuing in sin is acceptable to God (Romans 6:15).

We Must Grow and Change
We must grow spiritually and change ourselves into the image of Christ (Hebrews 6:1-3, Colossians 3:10-11, Romans 12:2). This is not an immediate event, but one that takes a lifetime of work and effort in. We, as Christians, are not permitted to rest stagnant and unchanged. Rather, we must constantly work to be able to present ourselves as pleasing to the Lord (II Timothy 2:15).

We Must Obey
Part of this change is not simply to have belief or desire to serve God. We must obey the Lord's commands (II Thessalonians 3:14, Hebrews 5:9, I John 3:24, etc.). If we wish for Christ to accept us, we must be His obedient servants, submitting our will to His own. It is not a matter of simply believing and voicing our belief, but one of changing our lives to obedience to Him.

Yes, people come to Christ as they are: sinful, broken, and in need to salvation. But when people choose to follow Jesus, change must happen. They must put away sin from their lives. They must put on the new man and do works of righteousness. It is not a matter of expecting Jesus to accept us however we want to be. Instead, we must accept what Jesus expects us to be. So come as you are...and with the help of the Lord and your new brethren, change!

Some People Who Studied, Part 2

2009-10-10T21:13:00.000-07:00

While it is easy to find reasons in scripture for studying God's word, and it is not too hard to find commandments to study God's word, sometimes we neglect to look at Biblical examples of men who took the time to study the scriptures. By looking at these individuals, we can learn much about how we should go about studying, what our motivation in studying is, and how we should make application from that study. Let us take a few moments to consider some of these people.

Ezra (Ezra 7:10)
Ezra prepared his heart to study, and then studied. And he did this so that he might teach others of what the Lord has said. He did not study simply for the sake of knowledge, but to be able to teach and help others in understanding God's will.

In this, Ezra sets an excellent example to be followed. In preparing his heart, he shows how important study is, and how seriously one should take it. In what he studied, he shows what we should be so diligent in examining. And in his purpose, he shows one of the things that study is necessary for. As Christians, we are to teach all the world (Matthew 28:18-20). We cannot do this if we do not know what we are to be teaching. We must follow the example of Ezra and study!

Lois, Eunice, and Timothy (II Timothy 3:14-15)
Lois had taught her daughter Eunice the scriptures, and in turn they both taught Timothy (II timothy 1:5). The scriptures were studied by them, even while Timothy was young. It is clear to see the importance placed on them by these godly women and this godly young man.

One of the examples shown here is of studying within the family, and the importance of such a practice. We also see that it is commendable to study with those who are young. People are never too young to begin learning God's word! And in these individuals, we see the end result of study. Because Lois studied and taught Eunice, who in turn studied and taught Timothy, who in turn studied and worked with the apostle Paul, and others, in teaching and converting untold numbers of people. Salvation is important not only for your own soul, but for other souls you can teach, study with, and influence towards salvation.

So how does your study compare with these individuals? Are you noble like the Bereans, in that you diligently seek to know and follow God's word? Are you like those Jews who studied God's word, but since you have your own ideas about how things are, you do not make application or have full understanding? Are you like Agrippa, in that other things are more important than what you know to be true? Are you like Ezra in that you prepare your heart for it and take it seriously? Are you like Louis, Eunice, and Timothy, learning the scriptures so that you may have eternal life and that you may help others have it as well?

Some People Who Studied, Part 1

2009-10-02T14:05:00.000-07:00

While it is easy to find reasons in scripture for studying God's word, and it is not too hard to find commandments to study God's word, sometimes we neglect to look at Biblical examples of men who took the time to study the scriptures. By looking at these individuals, we can learn much about how we should go about studying, what our motivation in studying is, and how we should make application from that study. Let us take a few moments to consider some of these people.

The Bereans (Acts 17:11)
Perhaps the most well known of those who studied the word of God, the Bereans are described as being “more noble” than the Thessalonians, who almost universally rejected the gospel preached by Paul. Instead, the Bereans opened the scriptures and sought to see if what Paul taught was true and accurate.

The example they set for us is one of always comparing what is being taught with what is said by God. They hungered for what was right, and so regularly and frequently they opened the word and sought the truth of things. It is an example that we should be diligent to follow.

The Jews (John 5:39)
Christ states that the Jews searched the scriptures in search of eternal life. And it is true that such is found in the word of God. The problem was that the Jews that Christ was speaking to failed to apply it. Although they searched the scriptures, they failed to understand what was said in them, and so found themselves rejecting the Messiah that they had been looking for. The example they set for us is one we should avoid. While they studied God's word, they did so with their own ideas, seeking proof for their idea of what things should be like. In so doing they were not able to understand what God actually had said, failed to make application, and in the end, failed to gain the eternal life that they sought in the first place. We must always strive to study God's word not to prove what we think or back up our conceptions, but to see what God's word actually says.

King Agrippa (Acts 26:26-27)
While it is possible that Agrippa never diligently studied, we see that Paul notes some things that implies that he did. It is noted that Agrippa would have known of Christ, but also that Agrippa believed the prophets. And of course, that is hard to do without some time spent studying the prophets.

Sadly, King Agrippa does not set a good example for us today. Although he knew of the Christ and of the prophets that spoke of the Christ, he rejected the gospel as inconvenient. He valued his earthly position more. When we study, we must be sure to place proper importance on the things we find in the scriptures. There can be nothing more important to us than the Lord, and what He has said.

Something to Remember when Tempted

2009-09-19T15:46:00.000-07:00

And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take. And it was the third hour, and they crucified him. And the superscription of his accusation was written over, THE KING OF THE JEWS. And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left. And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors. And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their heads, and saying, Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, Save thyself, and come down from the cross. Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save. Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him. And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias. And one ran and filled a sponge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; let us see whether Elias will come to take him down. And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost.

Mark 15:24-37

God the Father sent His willing Son to die on the cross. Crucifixion was the cruelest and most agonizing method of execution in the Roman Empire. Those that were crucified were the lowest of the low and worst of the worst. Such a penalty was typically reserved only for the worst of criminals and most despised of men: traitors, murderers, and the like. And yet this is the death that the Son of God suffered.

He went to the crucifixion willingly, choosing not to free Himself from it (Matthew 26:53). He made the sacrifice, bearing our sins in His body, that we might have forgiveness of sins and salvation (I Peter 2:24).

And while it is good for us to reflect on the love that God has for us, and that was shown for us in this way (John 3:16), it is important that we remember that must have that same love for Him (I John 4:7-21). This love, we see is faithful obedience to what the Lord requires. And after all, He does not require so very much of us. He requires no great heroics or mighty deeds. He simply asks us to humbly serve. And yet, so often, we fail in our love towards God and sin.

And each time we sin, that is why Christ died. Each sin, no matter how small it may seem to us, made the sacrifice made by the Son of God necessary.
For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
Hebrews 6:4-6

The next time you consider sinning and then repenting afterwards, think of this. The next time you think, “Well, I don't sin often, so...” you should consider this. The next time you are faced with temptation, remember that choosing sin is what made the crucifixion necessary. And that each time you sin, you are, in essence, saying to God that the sacrifice made by His Son doesn't matter to you. Each time you sin, you are basically telling God that you don't care about the death of His Son. Each sin is a rejection of God's love, and the love of His Son, Jesus.

Suddenly repentance, and walking according to God's will, seems like a pretty good idea, doesn't it?

A Christian's Attire

2009-09-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

Often, clothing is lumped into two groups: modest and immodest. Scripturally speaking, that is not what we see, however. What we see in scripture are three groups of dress: nakedness, proper, and immodest. It is worth our time to very briefly consider each of these. It is also worth remembering that the same rules regarding dress apply to both men and women.

Nakedness
Nakedness is not necessarily being completely unclothed. Nakedness can also mean partially clothed, but not clothed enough. In Genesis 3. In verse 7, we see that the man and the woman made for themselves “aprons” or “girdles.” These coverings would have been minimal, but there would have been some covering provided. In verse 10, however, Adam describes himself as naked, even while wearing some clothing, and God does not dispute the fact. A person can be clothed partially, yet still be naked. We see instead that the Lord makes them “coats” or “tunics” which provided sufficient covering (roughly shoulders to knees) to cover their nakedness. It is also worth noting that preventing lust in others is not the sole reason why nakedness is condemned. If such was the case, then Adam and Eve would not have been sinning in their nakedness. I would contend that it has as much to do with respect and proper treatment of what the Lord has provided (our bodies) as it does with not being a stumbling block to others.

Nonetheless, we do see in the Bible nakedness being placed with sexual immorality In Leviticus 18, there are a number of verses in which the Israelites are told not to “uncover the nakedness” of various relations. Some translations go so far as to translate it as having sexual relations, as this is certainly the point of these passages. Nakedness is a close relation to sexual immorality, which as Christians we are to flee (II Timothy 2:22). It's not worth getting close to.

Preventing lust in others (Romans 13:14), honor and respect for God (I Peter 2:17), and taking care of what the Lord has provided (Titus 1:7) are certainly principles in the New Testament, and reasons to avoid nakedness.

Immodesty
If nakedness is not wearing enough clothing, immodesty is perhaps the opposite. Immodesty is the act of dressing in a proud manner meant to attract the eye and attention. In I Timothy 2:9, Paul gives instructions for women's dress. His instructions are essentially “Don't be proud and haughty in your dress.” Wearing flashy or much jewelry, wearing only the finest and most expensive clothing, and the like is condemned. Indeed, we must realize that such attire is entirely counter to what we should be as Christians: humble (I Peter 5:6). Biblical immodesty is showing off through clothing. Instead, we should focus our selves on the inward man and on humbly serving the Lord.

Proper Attire
A sense of propriety should be seen in the dress and manner of a Christian (I Timothy 2:9, Romans 13:13). Our clothing should not be scanty. Nor should it be rich and vain. Anything more or less is not in line with following Christ.

It is worth noting once again that the same Bible principles that apply to dress for men also apply to women, and the other way around. It applies equally to the young and elderly. Nakedness and immodesty are equally important for all. And if you have a question about something, there's an easy rule of thumb. If you're not sure whether it's immodest, proper, or nakedness...put it back in the closet and put on something else that you're sure is proper instead.

The Works of God

2009-09-05T18:12:00.000-07:00

Great are the works of the LORD; They are studied by all who delight in them. Splendid and majestic is His work; And His righteousness endures forever. He has made His wonders to be remembered;The LORD is gracious and compassionate. He has given food to those who fear Him;He will remember His covenant forever. He has made known to His people the power of His works, In giving them the heritage of the nations.

Psalm 111:1-6 (NASB)

We can see many of the works of God. We can't help it, they surround us. The very earth that we stand on is a work of God, as is the air that we breath. The psalmist refers to the food that God provides those who follow Him and the revealing of His might. And while it is easy to see, enjoy, and delight in the physical things that God has worked, it is worth noting that such is not the most important point to the psalmist.

The works of His hands are truth and justice; All His precepts are sure. They are upheld forever and ever; They are performed in truth and uprightness. He has sent redemption to His people;He has ordained His covenant forever; Holy and awesome is His name. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments; His praise endures forever.

Psalm 111:7-10 (NASB)

The most wonderful of God's works are the precepts and commandments, and the Lord's work of redemption. More precious than the food that had been provided, more important the physical security that was given, stands the word of God.

Often people look at the Bible and see only restrictions and limitations. Many see something that is drudgery to follow. The psalmist sees otherwise: it is a work of God that is to be delighted in. Do you delight in the word of God? If so, it is one of His works that you will study and spend time with. When a person truly is interested and excited about something, he or she will spend much time and energy with it. We should have that delight in the Bible: the Lord's precepts and commandments.

The psalmist also mentioned the redemption God provides. In the New Testament, of course, we are shown the redemption of our souls by Christ (I Peter 1:18-19). Is there anything we should delight in as much as in this?

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials

I Peter 1:3-6 (NASB)

We should rejoice and delight in the good news: that we have a God who was willing to send His Son to earth to live a sinless life (Hebrews 4:15), die on the cross (Philippians 2:8), and rise again the third day (I Corinthians 15:4) that we may have opportunity for salvation if we respond in faith (Ephesians 2:8) and obedience (Hebrews 5:9).

But do we delight in it? If so, according to the psalmist, we will study it. And of course, all that we need to know is contained in the Bible, so we will study the Bible diligently and intently if we truly delight in the redemption offered to us.If we are not studying this work of God (Ephesians 2:8-10), then it is because we do not delight in it. So, how much do you appreciate salvation. Enough to study what the Lord has to say?

Half Measures

2009-08-28T12:08:00.000-07:00

Now Elisha was fallen sick of his sickness whereof he died. And Joash the king of Israel came down unto him, and wept over his face, and said, O my father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof. And Elisha said unto him, Take bow and arrows. And he took unto him bow and arrows. And he said to the king of Israel, Put thine hand upon the bow. And he put his hand upon it: and Elisha put his hands upon the king's hands. And he said, Open the window eastward. And he opened it. Then Elisha said, Shoot. And he shot. And he said, The arrow of the LORD'S deliverance, and the arrow of deliverance from Syria: for thou shalt smite the Syrians in Aphek, till thou have consumed them. And he said, Take the arrows. And he took them. And he said unto the king of Israel, Smite upon the ground. And he smote thrice, and stayed. And the man of God was wroth with him, and said, Thou shouldest have smitten five or six times; then hadst thou smitten Syria till thou hadst consumed it: whereas now thou shalt smite Syria but thrice.

II Kings 13:14-19

What was the problem? Joash had done what he had been told, hadn't he? Of course he had! But then he stopped. He continued with what he had been told until he felt he had beaten the ground enough times. The results were not what he would have hoped for. Instead of ending when he felt he had done enough, he should have continued until the Lord felt he had done enough. Other kings had a similar problem. They may have served the Lord, but not wholeheartedly. In II Chronicles 25:2, Amaziah is described this way. In the days of Moses, the Israelites are described this way (Numbers 32:11), and it is for this reason that they wandered the wilderness for forty years.

The question for us is this: are we serving God wholeheartedly? Or do we stop when we feel we have done enough? We can see the example set for us in study of God's word (Acts 17:11), but do we only study a couple times a week? Or do we study on a regular, constant basis, focusing on God's word? We know we are to assemble (Hebrews 10:25), but do we stop when we have assembled once a week? Or do we wholeheartedly assemble at every opportunity? We know we are to pray (I Thessalonians 5:17), but do we stop after praying only at the beginning of meals, and perhaps before we go to bed? Or do we endeavor to pray constantly throughout our day? The same questions apply for all things that we are to do in service to God: helping others, contributing on the Lord's Day, teaching, and so on.

Are we serving wholeheartedly. We should be. When Christ was asked what the most important commandment was, it was this answer He gave:
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment.

Matthew 22:37-38

Anything less is not enough. Anything less is halfhearted service and love. Anything less is unacceptable. We cannot approach our worship and walk with God with a “eh, that's good enough,” sort of attitude. We must be zealous and fervent in wholeheartedly following the Lord. If we are, we can be like Joshua and Caleb, who were commended for their wholehearted service (Numbers 32:12) and were allowed to enter the promised land.

The Gift of Salvation

2009-08-20T07:55:00.000-07:00

It is often taught that once a person is saved, it is impossible to lose that salvation. Often John 10:28 and Romans 8:39 are cited as proof that God will not allow man to lose salvation. Both of these passages speak truly: there is no force, person, or thing that can forcibly strip us from God. And it is true that God does not whimsically take away salvation from His followers. What these verses do not address, however, is that each one of us can choose to give up our salvation.

Salvation is not a “right,” it is an undeserved gift (Ephesians 2:8). And there are essentially three things you can do with a gift:

1. You can choose to accept it and keep it. When we faithfully obey the gospel of Christ, we accept the gift: salvation and eternal life. When we continue to walk with Christ, we keep the gift He has given us (Jude 1:21). And if we remain faithful throughout our life, that hope of eternal life is realized and the reward is given (Matthew 24:13).

2. You can choose to reject it. It's easy in scripture to find individuals who chose, for whatever reason, to reject the gift of salvation that was offered to them. The rich young ruler in Matthew 19, those that heard Stephen in Acts 7, Felix in Acts 24, and Agrippa in Acts 26 are all examples of people who chose to reject the gift that had been offered.

3. You can choose to at first accept the gift, and then later get rid of it. Just as we often do when given a gift for a holiday or birthday that we do not like, we can choose to throw away the gift that has been given by God. And we can see in scripture some men and women who chose to at first accept what God offered, and then later chose to throw it away. Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5, Demas in II Timothy 4:10, and of course Judas Iscariot are all people who made this decision.

That we can make any of these choices is apparent from the word of God. Besides the examples seen above, we are encouraged to not throw away our salvation, and admonished to remain faithful that we may receive the reward.

They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.
(Luke 8:13)

For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame
(Hebrews 6:4-6)

Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
(Galatians 5:4)

For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.
(II Peter 2:20-22)

So what will you do with the gift that has been offered? Will you have faith and obey the Lord's commands, remaining faithful all your life, holding on to your salvation? Will you reject the Lord outright? Or will you at first accept salvation, and then turn away from the Lord and give up the precious gift you have received? It's your choice, so choose wisely.

Caleb

2009-08-14T16:04:00.000-07:00

When we think of Caleb in the Bible, we usually think of “Joshua and Caleb,” and Joshua usually takes precedence in our minds, largely because Joshua was the one to whom was given leadership of Israel after the death of Moses. Let us take a few moments and consider the figure of Caleb.

When we first see Caleb in Numbers 13-14, he is one of the twelve spies sent to spy out the land of Canaan. When he returns with the others, he and Joshua are in the minority. While all admit to the greatness of the land, ten of the spies convince the people that the residents of the land are too difficult and enemy to fight. Joshua and Caleb alone put their faith in God and stand with the Lord, convinced that they can take what the Lord has given them. It nearly ends with them being stoned by the children of Israel.

Think about this for a moment: it wasn't enemies that Caleb was standing against. It was his friends, his family, his neighbors, and nearly everyone he knew that he stood in opposition against. It was against others who claimed to follow God. Yet, knowing the will of the Lord, he was willing to stand firm in his faith. This a lesson for us: to stand firm with God, regardless of who may oppose us. Caleb, and Joshua, was rewarded for their faithfulness: they alone of those over the age of 20 were allowed to enter the promised land.

And there is a lesson or two in this for as well. The first is the more obvious one: God rewards those who willingly follow and trust in Him. Just as Caleb was rewarded for his faithfulness, we too are guaranteed an entry to a promised land if we are faithful; a promised land far greater than that of Canaan. The other lesson I would like to consider is this: think about how much Caleb would have stood out among the people of Israel. We learn that he was 40 at the time the spies went into the land. After wandering for 40 years, he would have been 80 at the time of entering the promised land. Only he and Joshua would have been that old, with the nearest in age being around 60. He would have stood out. Sometimes doing what the Lord requires means we will be obviously different. We should be willing to stand firm.

In Joshua 14 and 15 we again see Caleb, this time at the age 85. At age 85, he requests the land that had been promised to him, and it is granted. To receive it, he attacks the city of Hebron. Hebron was a fortified city on a hill, difficult to attack. And it was there that the sons of Anak, who caused the other ten spies so much fear, dwelt. At age 85, Caleb, still putting his faith in the Lord, attacks and defeats the city of Hebron.

You are never too old to serve the Lord. You are never too old to lose faith. You are never too old to be of value in God's service. It's easy to make excuses on age, lack of experience, cost, or any number of other things. Instead, we should have the attitude of Caleb: that all things are possible with the Lord.

Caleb was not a sidekick to Joshua. He was a man of faith that we can all emulate.

Same Name, Different People

2009-08-07T14:57:00.000-07:00

A number of people in the Bible have identical names, and it can make it easy to get them confused and mixed up. In particular, the names of Herod, John, and James are easy to confuse, as there are a number of people of these names. Hopefully this will help keep them separate, and help in understanding the scriptures more clearly.

The Name of Herod
Herod the Great – He was the ruler of Judea at the time Christ was born into this world. He is responsible for the “murder of the innocents,” building the temple (and other buildings), and died while Jesus, Joseph, and Mary were in Egypt. He primarily appears in the Matthew 2.

Herod Antipas – Son of Herod the great, he became tetrarch of Galilee. It was this Herod who married his brother's wife, and upon whose order John the baptizer was beheaded. It was also this Herod which makes an appearance at the trial of Christ. This is the Herod mentioned throughout most of the gospel accounts.

Herod Agrippa I – A grandson of Herod the Great, but not son of Herod Antipas. This Herod is primarily known for the gruesome way in which he died, being eaten by worms as punishment for his pride (Acts 12).

The Name of John
John the baptist – So named for his practice of baptizing those who were willing. He was Jesus' cousin. He is spoken of in prophecy as the messenger who was to come before the Messiah and prepare the way. Based on Luke 1:15 is reasonable to think that he was under the Nazarite vow for his entire life. He is also notable for his bold teaching in the wilderness and for his death at hands of Heord Antipas by the wishes of Herodias. He is found in scripture towards the beginning of the gospel accounts, with his death coming in the 14th chapter of Matthew. It is also to this John that the reference “the baptism which John preached” is made.

John, the disciple Jesus loved – One of the twelve apostles, son of Zebedee, brother of James. In the gospel of John, he is often referred to as the disciple “whom Jesus loved,” indicating that John was particularly close to Jesus. The apostle John wrote the gospel of John, I, II, and II John, and the Revelation. Although early on he was given the name “boanerges,” meaning “son of thunder,” his growth as a Christian has led to him often being referred to as “the apostle of love,” although he is not addressed that way in scripture. He is found throughout the New Testament.

John Mark – In Acts 12, we see this man accompanying Barnabas and Paul for a while, before departing and turning back. In Acts 13, Paul and Barnabas divide because of him. This John is better known to us as Mark, who wrote the gospel of Mark.

The Name of James
James, son of Zebedee – One of the twelve apostles, the brother of the apostle John, and also given the name “boanerges.” He was executed by Herod Agrippa in Acts 12.

James the Less – One of the twelve apostles, the son of Alphaeus.

James, brother of Jesus – The brother of Jesus, who while at first unbelieving, came to faith and obedience. The epistle of James is attributed to him.

The Question of Cyrus

2009-08-01T10:23:00.001-07:00

That saith of Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid. Thus saith the LORD to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut;

Isaiah 44:28-25:1

Isaiah wrote of Cyrus in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, around the years of about 780-730BC. Cyrus was king of the Medo-Persian Empire about 200 years later, and was the one who allowed the Hebrews to return to Jerusalem (Ezra 1:1-4). The fact that Isaiah names Cyrus by name is astonishing, and has led people to three different conclusions.

The first conclusion that some people reach is that the book of Isaiah is a forgery. Those who believe this say that since Isaiah, being a man, could not have known the future that clearly, that the book must have been written by someone else, several hundred years later. The biggest problem with this is that Christ, the Son of God, referred to passages in Isaiah and identified Isaiah as the author. (Matthew 13:14, etc.). Being God, He would know accurately who wrote the book of Isaiah. Likewise, the apostles and inspired writers referred to Isaiah's writings as being authored by Isaiah (Luke 3:4, Acts 28:25-26, Romans 15:12, etc.). Clearly, this conclusion is wrong.

The second conclusion that some people reach is that Isaiah was tampered with years after Isaiah died. This view is that Isaiah wrote the book, but that someone else came in several hundred years later and made changes to the text. The problem with this conclusion is that it allows for God's word to be corrupted and changed through time. In I Peter 1:24-25, Peter states that the word of the Lord endures forever. David also made this statement (Psalm 12:6-7). As we have two inspired writers stating that God will preserve His word, this conclusion stands as false.

The third conclusion that can be reached is that Isaiah did write this passage, that is has been preserved by the Lord, and that the Lord gave Isaiah a true prophecy. While the other two conclusions assumes a lack of God's direction, the third conclusion realizes the nature of prophecy and that all scripture does indeed come from God (II Timothy 3:16-17).

So there's several lessons that we can take from realizing that God indeed gave the prophecy through Isaiah and that He has preserved His word.
1.We can trust God's word.
2.We can trust that God has a plan and can carry out that plan.
3.We can trust that God's power and ability is far greater than man's.

Test Your Knowledge

2009-07-24T19:06:00.000-07:00

Instead of the usual article, I thought we'd do something a little different today. So here is a do-it-yourself quiz covering what we have had in the reading schedule so far this year, with the answers on the inside. Some are easy, some may be more difficult for you. See how many answers you know, and then let us all strive to learn more of God's word.

Questions:
1. How many days did creation take?
2. What was the name of Moses' brother?
3. What was Jacob's name changed to?
4. How many brothers did Joseph have?
5. Who were the kings over Israel, before the nation divided into two nations?
6. Who were the two men who never died?
7. Who is the longest living man in the Bible?
8. Who led the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem after Babylonian and Persian captivity?
9. Who was fed by ravens?
10. What was Jerub-baal's original name?
11. How many people were saved during the great flood?
12. What is the longest chapter in the Bible?
13. Which Jew became queen over the Persian Empire?
14. What was the last plague in Egypt before the Israelites were set free?
15. Who led the Israelites after the death of Moses?
16. What did God provide for the Israelites to eat in the wilderness?
17. Where was the law given to the Hebrews?
18. Who led the rebellion against Moses and was swallowed up by the earth?
19. Who prayed for a son, and a priest thought she was drunk?
20. Who was the worst king of Judah?

Answers:

1.Six (Genesis 1)

2.Aaron (Exodus 4:14)

3.Israel (Genesis 32:28)

4.Eleven (Genesis 29:31-30:24)

5.Saul, David, and Solomon (I Samuel 9:17, I Samuel 16:1-13, I Kings 2:12)

6.Enoch and Elijah (Genesis 5:21-24, II Kings 2:11-12)

7.Methuselah (Genesis 5:27)

8.Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1-6)

9.Elijah (I Kings 17:2-6)

10.Gideon (Judges 6:32)

11.Eight (Genesis 7:6-10)

12.Psalm 119

13.Esther, also known as Hadassah (Esther 2:17)

14.Death of the firstborn (Exodus 12:12

)15.Joshua (Joshua 1:1-2)

16.Manna and Quail (Exodus 16:35, Exodus 16:13)

17.Mt. Sinai (Exodus 31:18)

18.Korah (Numbers 16)

19.Hannah (I Samuel 1:9-16)

20.Manasseh (II Kings 21:1-18)

Comfort in Christ

2009-07-18T08:54:00.000-07:00

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort; who comforts us in all our affliction so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ. But if we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; or if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which is effective in the patient enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer; and our hope for you is firmly grounded, knowing that as you are sharers of our sufferings, so also you are sharers of our comfort.

I Corinthians 1:3-7 (NASB)

We live in a time where many wish they could have some comfort, for a great many reasons. In Christ, there is great comfort and peace. Paul writes to the church in Philippi that the peace of Christ goes beyond what we can understand (Philippians 4:7).

In order to receive the comfort offered in Christ, we must first be in Christ (I Peter 5:14). If we are not in Christ, then we do not have the peace and comfort which He offers. Being in Christ requires having come to faith and obedience (Galatians 3:27).

Part of this comfort offered by Christ is in knowing that the Lord cares for you (I Peter 5:7). In Matthew 6:24-34, Christ makes a promise to those who follow Him. That they will be taken care of and provided for. Now, notice that this passage does not say that His disciples will be wealthy or well off. Nor does He say that they will be of good health. Nor does He say that nothing bad will occur in their life. The only promise made is that we will have what we need for as long as we need it. While a far cry from the “gospel of health and wealth” that many advocate, it is nonetheless a comforting thought.

Part of the comfort offered by Christ is knowing that there are others who obey Christ who will be there to help us and work with us in the Lord's service (II Corinthians 7:6). As in all things, it is comforting to know that others are with us. More importantly, we have the promise that God is with us (Matthew 18:20). The Lord who will strengthen us is always with us, if we live in faith and obedience (Philippians 4:13).

Part of the comfort offered by Christ is knowing that no matter happens in this life, we have something more to look forward to. This is why Paul writes to the church in Thessalonica,
For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

I Thessalonians 4:16-18

However, the Lord's return is only of comfort to those who have lived for Him. For those who have not put their faith in the Lord, obeyed Him, it should be a terrifying thought (II Corinthians 5:11).

The Importance of __________ Knowledge

2009-07-10T14:38:00.001-07:00

In writing to Christians, Pete urged them to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (I I Peter 3:18) Grace, as is well known, is extremely important for all. It is by grace that men and women can have the hope of eternal life (Ephesians 2:8-10). No one would doubt the importance of God's mercy. Held equally in this passage is knowledge. The knowledge of our Lord is vital to the Christian, and so he should pursue it. Not content with what he already knows, he will strive to learn more.

The Importance of Having Knowledge
As is seen in Hosea 4:6, there is a consequence for lacking knowledge: destruction. And it is a pretty simple and straightforward reason for this to be so: if one does not know what the commandments of God are, then then the word of God cannot be followed. If God's instructions are got followed, then it is impossible to please God (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, Hebrews 11:6). There are negative consequences for not having knowledge, and the end is destruction (II Thessalonians 1:8-9). It is not as though we are not given what we need to know. The Lord has provided us with all pertinent information (II Peter 1:3). And so, we are held responsible for not remaining ignorant (Acts 17:30).

At the same time, there are positive consequences for having knowledge of the scriptures. Through knowledge of God's word, belief is possible. (John 20:30-31). Through knowledge, it is possible to obey God (John 14:15) and thus love the Lord. Through knowledge of the scriptures, it is possible to please God and live with Him for eternity (I John 5).

The Importance of Right Knowledge
Now, simply having some knowledge is not good enough. It must be right knowledge. That is, it must be true. To put it in the simplest form, Christ promises that the truth will set you free (John 8:32). By stating this, He of course excludes all non-truths. If we wish to be pleasing to the Lord, our knowledge must be in accordance with what He has said. Many will sincerely follow teachings not by Christ (II Peter 2:1-3). But their sincerity will not save them from condemnation for believing a lie (II Thessalonians 2:11-12).

Instead, caution must be used to have knowledge of the truth: the gospel, the word of God. It is through the gospel that we can know what we must do to be saved (Romans 1:16). It is through proper knowledge of the scriptures that we can be made mature and complete workers (II Timothy 3:16-17). No matter how comforting or appealing lies may be, they do not lead to the same end as the truth.

The Importance of Applying Knowledge
It is one thing to know what to do. It is another thing to actually do it. Having knowledge of the truth does a person no good unless it is applied. In Matthew 7:24-27, Christ teaches about two people: one who hears His words and does nothing, and one who hears His words and acts on them. The first man is compared to a foolish builder whose house collapses. The second man is described as a wise man who built on a rock. A person can completely memorize the entire Bible, but if that person does not follow what the scriptures teach, that knowledge is useless and accomplishes nothing. James teaches us that we cannot be simply a hearer, but must also be a doer of the word (James 1:23-27). It is pretty simple: action must follow knowledge.

Knowledge that is both true and applied is absolutely necessary for living a Christian life. All should dedicate time to studying the scriptures and seeking out the will of God (Acts 17:11, Acts 20:27). In study, knowledge is gained. That knowledge in turn leads to more understanding. And when that knowledge is applied, the cause of Christ is furthered.

Sin and Punishment

2009-07-03T10:13:00.000-07:00

Sin is simple. When you do someone that God has said not to do, you sin (I John 3:4). When you do not do something God has commanded, you sin (James 4:17). That covers a pretty wide area, which is why lists of sins found in scripture do not claim to be complete. For example,

Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

Galatians 5:19-21

This list teaches that adultery, fornication, uncleanness, and lasciviousness (that is, all forms of lust and sexual activity outside of marriage) are sin. Idolatry (letting anything be more important than God in your life) is a sin. Witchcraft (false religion and applying to “another power” other than God) is a sin. Hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, and strife (all of which are sins against others) are all sins. Seditions and heresies (turning others away from the Lord) is sin. Envying (jealousy over another’s possessions, status, abilities, etc.), murders, drunkenness and revellings, are all sin. And then Paul ends with “and such like,” which means that there are more works of the flesh (in other words: sin), than in this list.

If we choose to sin, there are consequences. It’s that simple. If we choose to do that which God has forbidden, or if we choose to not do that which God has commanded, there is a result. And it’s not a happy one.

And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.

Mark 9:43-48

If you live in sin, all you have to look forward to is an eternity of suffering and torment. Of course, the opposite is equally true. If we live for Christ, we have eternal life to look forward to. It shouldn’t be hard to choose which we prefer, and then make up our minds to live accordingly. Do you want to have eternal life with Christ? Do as He says (John 14:15). Do you want to suffer in eternal torment? Then sin. Just remember the consequences.

II Timothy 3:16-17

2009-06-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

We refer to these couple verses quite often. Let us break it down and see what all is contained in this passage.

First, we learn that the scriptures (that is, writings, that is, the Bible) are given by inspiration of God. Or more literally, that they are God-breathed. God, being the creator of all things, as well as being all powerful and all knowing, certainly has the authority with which to tell us what to do. Much as a parent has the authority to direct and guide his/her child. We learn here of the absolute authority and perfect origin of the Bible. And while it is likely that Paul here is referring to the Old Testament, the New Testament books (specifically the letters of Paul) are also put into the same category of “scripture” by Peter (II Peter 3:15-16).

We learn that the scriptures are profitable, that is, useful and worthwhile for doctrine. Which means that the word of God is provided for teaching and learning. We learn also that it is profitable for reproof, that is, for rebuking that which is wrong. We are convicted of what is wrong through God's word. Following this, we see that it is good for correction. Which makes sense. After we see what we are doing wrong, we can learn how to fix it. And we learn that the scriptures are there for instruction in all righteousness. This is a bit different from doctrine. Doctrine, or teaching is a more general term. It would include not only what we need to do, but also basic teachings of Christ: His Deity, His life, His crucifixion and burial, His resurrection, and such things as that. “Instruction in righteousness” is more specific: the scriptures teach us how we might stand righteous before God, and thus be saved.

Verse 17 teaches us two things. First, that it is through the scriptures and the use of the scriptures that the man of God may be made perfect, that is, complete or mature. We do not turn to some other source in order to mature and be a whole and complete Christian: we turn to God's inspired word. It is not through some other teaching, catechism, or creed that we become complete. It is only through the Bible, which God has provided.

The second part of verse 17 tells us what we need to continue doing, and of our purpose. That we may thoroughly equipped for good works. That is, by heeding scripture, we will be prepared and able to carry out the Lord's work. That would involve teaching, caring for others, increasing our faith, and anything else that can truly be done in His service.

There is much contained in these two short verses that instruct us in the proper use of the Lord's word. Let us strive to do as much as we can to grow in knowledge of the word, and to use it well in the Lord's service.

Tradition

2009-06-22T08:56:00.000-07:00

Tradition can be a sticky subject. Many people are instantly opposed to anything traditional. Others are enamored with traditions. The Bible speaks of traditions that are both good, and of those that are evil. Let us consult the scriptures, given by God, to understand how we should view tradition.

Some traditions are expressly good. These are those things which have their origin with God, and which God has made binding. That is, God made them and God expects us to follow them. II Thessalonians 2:13-15 tells us that this tradition is the gospel, which was taught by the apostles in both written form and verbal form. (II Corinthians 10:7-11 illustrates that what they said they also wrote, and the other way around. It wasn't two separate teachings, but the same things taught two ways.) We see in II Thessalonians 3:6-12 that this tradition taught by Christ and the apostles involved the manner of life in which we are to live. I Thessalonians 4:1-8 and I Corinthians 11:23 show us that what the apostles taught was not separate of what the Lord taught, nor was it of their own creation. Rather, they taught the traditions which they were commanded to teach by God. They were fulfilling the commandment given to them by Christ in Matthew 28:18-20:
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
For this reason, we accept what the apostles wrote and taught regarding the Lord's will. It is not a matter of “This is just what Paul thought,” or “Well, that's just Peter's view of it.” Their instruction comes from the Lord.

Next we note that some things are indifferent to the Lord. There are some things (but not everything!) in which we have some freedom and liberty to do as we choose. For example, there is no verse in scripture which tells us what color to paint our walls or carpet our floors. There are some things which are left up to us. And occasionally, we form traditions we follow around these sorts of things. These traditions are things which man originated, but which we do not force on others. Often these are a matter of convenience (for example, we assemble at 9:45 on Sunday mornings because that is a convenient time, as opposed to a different time each week.) Romans 14:1-13 deals with these things. At the same time, we must remember I Peter 2:13-17 and not misuse our liberty. We must remember that Christ, and His will, always comes first.

Next, we turn our eyes to tradition which God finds displeasing in the extreme. When man originates something and then makes it binding on others, it is an evil tradition. This generally takes two forms. One is replacing one of God's traditions with a man-made tradition. The other is adding a man-made tradition to God's tradition. In Matthew 15:1-13, Christ expressly condemns this sort of tradition. In Galatians 1:13-17, Paul writes of the religious traditions he followed earlier in his life, which caused him to persecute the church. Colossians 2:8-10 warns against being cheated by man by traditions. Titus 1:10-16 warns against following fables and commandments of men. I Peter 1:13-21 addresses aimless conduct taught by tradition. We must be careful not to add or replace any part of what God has said in the scriptures. When we do so, we oppose Christ. Likewise, we must careful not to adhere to such man-made doctrines, lest we lose our soul.

The last sort of tradition is also one that is evil. It occurs when God has established something, and decreed that man should follow in it, yet men obey only our of rote habit, and not out of devotion fervent obedience to God. This was a problem in the days of Isaiah, as shown in Isaiah 29:13-14 and Isaiah 1:11-20. The people at that time were keeping the laws given to them by God. But they held no meaning for the people. They simply followed them by habit and without thought. We must be careful to never follow God in such a way! Indeed, the Bible teaches that He finds such obedience to be just as repugnant as disobedience.

Let us follow the traditions as given to us in the scriptures by God! Let us turn away from such man-made doctrines as imperil our soul. Let us strive to follow the Lord wholeheartedly.

An Obedient Faith

2009-06-13T15:22:00.000-07:00

Often we speak of faithful obedience. And rightly so. Whatever good we may do on this earth is without meaning unless it is done out of faith in the Lord. But often, we neglect to flip the phrase around the other way, and consider faith as obedience.

And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.
I John 3:23

Here, John writes that we are commanded to believe. Faith isn't something that simply happens to us. Rather, we consider the evidence provided (John 20:30-31) and choose to obediently decide based on the word (Romans 10:17). Indeed, Jesus was asked about this subject (John 6:22-40), and responded in verse 29:

Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.

The context tells us that this belief is not something that God does or has done, but rather, it something that we must all do if we wish to follow the Lord. In short, we are commanded to believe, and so, being obedient, we choose to do so.

We can see this same obedient faith in the great heroes of the Bible as well. In the eleventh chapter of the book of Hebrews, we see this obedient faith in Abel (v 4), in Noah (v 7), in Abraham (v 8-10, 17), in Isaac (v 20), in Jacob (v 21), in Joseph (v 22), in Moses (v 24-28), in the Israelites (v 29, 30) and in Rahab (v 31). Faith is held not outside of obedience, but in obedience.

Which of course begs a question. Is it the only thing we must obey the Lord in? Is our obedient faith an intellectual acceptance, and that's the end of our obedience? Of course not. If we obey in one part, we should obey in all parts. Just as we should obey the command to believe, we should obey the Lord's other commands, whether of baptism (Acts 10:48), of repentance (Acts 17:30), of assembling (Hebrews 10:25), of the Lord's Supper (Luke 22:19), of prayer (I Thessalonians 5:17), of holiness and purity (I Peter 1:15-16), or in regard to anything else of which the Lord has spoken.

Just as we cannot hope to be pleasing to God without faith (Hebrews 11:6), it is impossible to be pleasing to God if we do not obey His other commandments. Either we walk with Him wholeheartedly and completely, or we do not walk with Him at all.

Take a few moments and consider: Do you have faith, as required by God? Do you continue to wholeheartedly follow the Lord's other commands? Or are there limits as to you willingness to obey the Lord?

Itching Ears

2009-06-08T09:11:00.000-07:00

I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

II Timothy 4:1-4

In this passage, Paul essentially tells Timothy two things. The first is that he should constantly speak the word of God. He should teach and preach constantly and with devotion, using it wisely and with the proper attitude. And he warns Timothy that some will not want to hear the word of God, but will seek out men saying what they want to hear. And indeed, we can look around and see many who have done just that.

We see many who follow after men who tell them exactly what they want to hear: That serving God brings earthly riches, fame, or power. That after conversion it is impossible to forfeit salvation. That God is accepting of everyone without them making change in their life. And we see much condemnation of speaking the gospel in all its simplicity and truth. Indeed, at times those who speak the truth feel much as Paul did.

Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?

Galatians 4:16

And it is easy to look around and point our fingers at people who so obviously have found teachers that will tickle their itching ears. And it is easy to point at the teachers doing the tickling. But let us, as always, make application to our own lives. Do we close our ears to those things that we do not want to hear? Or do we truly want to hear the word of God?

Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you?

John 6:60-61

There were times that the disciples had this problem as well. When they heard something that didn't sound like what they wanted to hear, they murmured. When we hear from a teacher or read in scripture something that seems to be aimed at our lives, how do we respond? Do we seek correction as Jeremiah did? Or do we murmur and complain? If we make application, we please God. If we complain and decide that the teacher/preacher is just wrong and mean, we have itching ears.

Do your ears itch? And if so, what do they itch for? For something that is pleasant and pleasing and requires little or no effort? Or for something that is true, solid, and has an eternal reward?

Purposeful Study

2009-05-30T09:58:00.000-07:00

A quick glance through a religious bookstore or the religion section of bookstore will show that there is great fascination with the end of the world, and naturally, of Christ's ' return. Many people spend a great deal of time in reading various books and trying to study passages such as I Thessalonians 4:13-17, I Thessalonians 5:1-5, II Timothy 3:1-9, and II Peter 3:1-13. Studying these passages is certainly not a bad thing, but along the way many lose sight of the purpose of Bible study.

When we study the scriptures it is not simply to accumulate knowledge. Nor is it a mental exercise. It is not done in order to impress others with our understanding. It is done so that we might better understand what the will of God is. If you glanced at the passages above (and I certainly encourage you to do so before continuing), you notice that I left a few verses off of each passage. Each of these is completed with a “therefore” type statement. When one of the inspired writers of scriptures used the word “therefore,” it means he is about to conclude his statement with an application.

When Paul wrote in II Thessalonians 4:13-17 about the dead in Christ rising before the living upon Christ's return, he concludes in verse 18 by telling us to comfort one another with these words. It was not simply to provide a fact of interest, but to give Christians comfort.

In I Thessalonians 5:6-11, Paul concludes telling the church in Thessalonica that the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night by warning them to always be prepared for it. Again we see that there was a purpose to Paul writing other than just to provide interesting points of information.

In II Timothy 3:10-17, Paul concludes warning Timothy about people by admonishing him to not walk in such ways. Instead, Timothy was to continue in the truth.

In II Peter 3:14-18, Peter concludes a passage on the earth's destruction by fire with an admonishment to be diligent. Without making application from the information, the passage would hold less value for the Christians receiving the letter from the apostle. Likewise, we must be sure to make application from each passage we study.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

II Timothy 3:16-17

We see then what Paul tells us scripture is useful for. It is there that we may learn the doctrine (that is, the teaching) of Christ. Through the word of God, we can understand what the Lord wants. We see that Paul tells us that it is useful for reproof, that is, in showing error and exhorting to righteousness. Paul states that scripture is good for correction. We all must repent in our lives, that we may put away sin and follow the Lord. He also tells us that scripture is good for instruction in righteousness, that is, the word of God teaches us how we may walk blameless before the Lord.

And if we use the scriptures in this way, not just to gain knowledge or accumulate facts, we will be made complete and mature before God. We will be equipped with all that we need that we may do good works, that is, the things which God has commanded. Let us strive not only to study, but to study purposefully!

As We Have Opportunity

2009-05-24T11:21:00.000-07:00

As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Galatians 6:10

Each of us, as individuals, has a task to do. Each of us must use what opportunities we have to do good to others. Many wait for glaringly obvious opportunities to present themselves. Instead, we need to look for opportunities to do good. In Matthew 26:16, Judas sought an opportunity to betray Christ. Rather than this, we should seek opportunity to serve Christ. And by serving the needs of others, we do indeed serve Christ (Matthew 25:33-46). What we are faced with is not a lack of opportunities, but rather, a failure to recognize and grasp the opportunities we are presented with.

The matter of doing good unto others is one with many implications. Many things we can do seem like such small things, and are things that will never receive acclaim or praise from other men. Nonetheless, we cannot ignore the small things, whether it is a matter of helping someone walk across the floor, sending a card for someone, or mowing their lawn for them. At other times, our opportunities may seem far beyond what we are able to handle. They may seem to require more of us than we can do, whether emotionally, physically, or financially. We cannot let the size of opportunities keep us from doing what we can. If we cannot do it all, we all can at least do something.

In addition to doing what we can for others physically and lending a helping hand in whatever way we can, there is another aspect which can have much longer lasting effects. And that is doing good unto others spiritually. That is, bringing the gospel to those who do not have it, and helping the brethren continue in the walk with Christ. We are commanded to go unto all the world (Matthew 28:18-20), spreading the gospel of salvation (Romans 1:16). Whatever we may do for others physically is good, and the effects may last for a long time. Whatever we may do for others spiritually can last eternally.

We have no excuse to not do good unto all men. We have a responsibility to Christ to care for others. Whether for the poor, who are always with us (John 12:8), those who are without family (James 1:27), our brethren (John 13:34), our physically family (Mark 9:7-13), or for anyone else who may pass our way, we must do for them as we would do for Christ, that we may be good and faithful servants (Matthew 25:34-39).

So how many opportunities have you looked for in this last week?

II Corinthians 9:12-14

2009-05-20T07:48:00.000-07:00

This passage is often used to show that the role of the church is to look out for the physical well being of all people, regardless of the state of their soul. Let us consider what these verses actually say.

Verse 12

For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;

The beneficiary of their benevolence is listed here as “the saints,” as it is also stated in the first verse of the chapter. Other passages which deal with benevolence from a church are Acts 2:44, 4:32, 6:1-10. Acts 11:27-30, Rom15:25, I Cor 16:1, II Cor 8:9, I Tim 5:9-10. Each time it is stated as being benevolence to believers. We thus begin establishing a pattern.

We also see that a result of it is many thanksgivings unto God. This is, of course, a natural outpouring from saints, but uncommon from nonbelievers.

Verse 13

Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men;

We see the that the recipients glorify God. Once again, this normal for saints and abnormal for non- saints.

The word translated here as “distribution” is the word koinoneo, meaning “fellowship.” Other places this appears are Acts 2:42, Romans 12:13, Philippians 1:3-7, and I John 1:1-9. Each time we see this word used positively when it describes a saint/saint relationship and negatively when it describes a saint/unbeliever relationship.

We also know that there were other needy saints than just in Jerusalem, where it is assumed the “saints” named here are located (I Cor 16:1). We also know there were needy saints throughout Judea (which was a region) based on Acts 11:27-30. It also seems likely to me that there must have been financial difficulties in numerous places, much as it is today. Thus, it is easy to understand the phrase, “and unto all” (remembering that the word men isn’t found in the Greek, but is an addition by the translators) as “to the saints in Jerusalem and in other places” or “To the saints in Jerusalem and to all other places benevolence has been sent”

Furthermore, there are several occasions when “all men” refers in context to saints only. Compare Acts 2:44-47, Romans 16:19, I Thessalonians 2:15, and III John 1:12.

The “men” is not included in the NASB, BBE, YLT, or ASV. It is included in the KJV and NKJV. The phrase is translated as “and with everyone else” in the NIV and as “for all others” in the ESV.

Verse 14

And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.

Remembering that a pronoun is used to refer back to the previously mentioned noun, we must ask who is offering prayers and who “longs after” the Corinthians for the “grace in them?” Is it unbelievers? Or is it believers? Once again, it would be the norm to come from believers, but unusual to come from unbelievers who are either untaught or have rejected the message to respond in this way.

Thus, the congregation is limited in benevolence to saints only. This does not mean that individuals (Gal. 6:10, etc.) are not to “do good unto all men,” but only that it is not the work of the church as the church. Just as different Christians play different roles, the individual and the congregation play different roles.

Aiming at the Target

2009-05-09T21:19:00.000-07:00

When you shoot a firearm or bow, you are aiming at something. In doing so, you keep your focus on what you are aiming at. You are steady in where you point the muzzle or arrow. You deliberate and careful. We must have the same approach towards our own lives.

Whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them. I did not withhold my heart from any pleasure; for my heart rejoiced in all my labor; and this was my reward from all my labor. Then I looked on all the works that my hands had done and on all the labor in which I had toiled; and indeed all was vanity and grasping for the wind. There was no profit under the sun.

Ecclesiastes 2:10-11 (NKJV)

Solomon, to whom was given great wisdom, examined a number of things which a life can be aimed at. In this passage, he looks at pleasure and those things which are enjoyable. And we all surely know those who are only concerned with having fun, whose lives are dedicated to enjoyable activities. And yet, Solomon's conclusion is that aiming at such is great foolishness and waste. In Ecclesiastes 4:13-16, Solomon examines the concepts of popularity and power, and finds that they too are not proper goals for which to strive.

Do not lay up for yourselves treasure on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroy and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Matthew 7:19-21 (NKJV)

Christ tells us in the New Testament that our hearts must not be centered on wealth and earthly gain, but rather focused on those things which are spiritual. If our focus is centered on earthly things, if our targets are all of this world, then in this life we will have our reward. If, however, we focus on Christ, setting our eyes on Him (Hebrews 12:1-2), our reward is an eternal reward. We will have eternal life, and dwell with the Lord forever. In Philippians 3:6-16, Paul instructs the church at Philippi to press on towards the goal of the upward call of Christ. The target we aim our eyes at is Christ. We must strive to follow Him, to walk as He walked (I Peter 2:21-22, I Corinthians 11:1, etc.).

If we do so, if we diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6), if we aim at that target, we can have the confidence that Paul had.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only, but also to all who have loved His appearing.

II Timothy 4:7-8 (NKJV)

Paul, having aimed for Christ, was to receive the reward: a crown of righteousness. That is, Paul was going to receive eternal life and bliss with the Lord.

So, what are you aiming you life at? Is it the things of this world? Fun, money, power, popularity? Or is your treasure stored up in Heaven, having striven to be like Christ? If the former, your reward will be in this short life, so full of suffering. If the latter, your reward will be an everlasting life in the presence of God.

Dead Works

2009-05-02T08:02:00.000-07:00

Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.

Hebrews 6:1-2

How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

Hebrews 9:1

To follow Christ as we should, we must be purged of dead works, and repenting from dead works. So what, exactly, is a dead work? As it turns out the phrase holds two different significances. The first meaning of the phrase, and the most commonly thought of one, is that dead works are those actions which lead to spiritual death. That is, dead works are sinful deeds. And it is easy to see in scripture that we should not do those things which are evil in the sight of God.
Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.

I Corinthians 15:34

And it is equally easy to see that these actions lead to death.
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Romans 6:23

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

Revelation 21:8

The other meaning of the phrase “dead works” refers to those actions, which may be good of themselves, which are done without faith, half-heartedly, or merely out of habit or rote. This was the fault of the hypocrites in Matthew 6:1-17. They did good actions, but did so in order to receive the praise of other men. Their works were dead. In Matthew 15:1-9, the Pharisees performed dead works in that they gave money to the temple in place of supporting their parents. While God approved of giving the money to the temple, their action was dead because it ignored what God wanted. Instead, they were replacing it with a tradition of men.

We must be sure to not only be doing the right actions, but to do them in the right way, with the right heart, and with the right purpose. Otherwise, our works are dead. In the second chapter of James, he writes that faith without works is dead. The opposite is also true. Works without faith is dead.

The Hebrew writer wrote his letter to Christians, reminding them that although they should have been past this point, they still needed to repent of their dead works. We too must repent of dead works and strive to become a fully living, active, and productive Christian, pleasing to the Lord.

Preparing the Heart

2009-05-02T07:52:00.000-07:00

For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.

Ezra 7:10

To begin studying, we must first prepare ourselves, just as Ezra did. We must set our hearts in the proper path to begin study. In order to prepare our hearts, there are several attitudes we must strive to match.

First, we must humble ourselves (Proverbs 11:2, Colossians 3:12). This means that we must be aware of our own status, relative to the Lord. We must be aware of our limitations and of our failures when following Christ.

Second, we must have fear ( Proverbs 3:7, Proverbs 15:33). We must have reverence towards God and His word. We must also have a degree of fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12). Consider that in studying, you are handling the word given by God.

Third, we must have an open and receptive mind. We must make sure that we are not studying the Bible in search of proof for what we believe. We must have the mindset of Job (Job 6:24), of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 10:24), and of David (Psalm 25:4-5). Our mindset must be that we wish to learn and, if necessary, be corrected.

We also need to prepare with prayer. As in all other things, we should pray (I Thessalonians 5:17). When Paul prayed for the church in Colossi, he prayed that they be filled with knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. Such should be our prayer. Likewise, Solomon prayed for wisdom and knowledge (II Chronicles 1:7-13), and this pleased God greatly. In fact, if pleased God so much that He granted Solomon much that had not been asked.

Let us always remember to prepare our hearts to seek the law of the Lord. Rehoboam failed to set his heart to seek the Lord, and the results were evil (II Chronicles 12:14). Let us not be like him. Let us follow the example of Ezra instead.

And of course, this does not apply solely to private study of the scriptures. Each time we gather together to study, whether in Bible class or sermon, we must be properly prepared. Let us keep this in mind, whether we are studying alone, studying with others at home, studying with others in an assembly, or in our upcoming gospel meeting.

Context

2009-04-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

And he brought him to Jerusalem, and set him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down from hence: For it is written, He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee: And in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.

Luke 4:9-11

We're all familiar with this passage as part of the temptation of Christ. In this temptation, Satan quotes scripture. And as we know in the next verse, he is rebuked by Christ. Satan took scripture, used it out of its context, and in such a manner twisted it from the truth. This is what Peter warns about in II Peter 3:14-18. We must not twist scripture, but use it as it was intended to be used. So let us consider three different contexts each time we go to the Bible:

Immediate
What do the verses right around it say? Does your understanding fit into the immediate context? Do the surrounding verses have further explanation or modifiers that apply to the verse you are looking at? It is easy to take one verse, ignore the verses around it, and make it say whatever you want it to say.

Book
Does your understanding of the verse mesh with the rest of the book? For example, if you are looking at John 3:16, does your understanding of that verse include John 14:15? Remember that the division into chapters and verses was done by men, many years after the scriptures were written. The different books of the Bible were intended to be read as a whole. Keep in mind what the rest of the book says and to whom each was written.

Bible
The Bible does not contradict itself. So we must make sure that the verse being examined, or rather, our understanding of that verse, does not contradict the rest of scripture. If there is an apparent contradiction, then the interpretation of one, or both, verses must be wrong.

If our understanding of a particular passage is in contradiction to any of these contexts, our understanding is flawed, and we must begin again. Using a scripture in a way other than it was intended (II Peter 1:20-21 – God gave it one way, we must use and understand it that one way) is not acceptable. Even if we are using it to show a true teaching, we cannot take the verse out of context. We must correctly handle the word of truth (II Corinthians 4:2, II Timothy 4:15).

The Ten Commandments: 6-10

2009-04-09T10:11:00.000-07:00

The ten commandments are often referred to by people. Interestingly enough, they are not named as separate from the rest of the law, or numbered. The majority of people hold them as still binding. Numerous churches list them as official parts of their doctrine. Yet we know today that the laws given through Moses are not binding on us today (Colossians 2:14, Ephesians 2:15). However, nine of these commandments are repeated in the New Testament. And the exception, the Sabbath, has a corollary in the New Testament (and it isn't Sunday). Last week we looked at the first five commandments. This week we look at the sixth through tenth commandments.

Sixth Commandment: Thou shalt not kill. (Exodus 20:13)
Christ takes this commandment and gives us the fullness of it in Matthew 5:21-26. We see that not only are we to avoid physical murder, but that we should not hold in our hearts the unrighteous anger that leads to murder. Our hearts must be as free from murder as our actions are.

Seventh Commandment: Thou shalt not commit adultery. (Exodus 20:14)
Again we see Christ giving a more full understanding of this in Matthew 5:27-32. We see again that it is not simply the action that is wrong, but the thoughts and intents of the heart as well. Looking at someone to lust after them is, in God's eyes, equal to the act of adultery.

Eighth Commandment: Thou shalt not steal. (Exodus 20:15)
In Ephesians 4:8, Paul writes to the church in Ephesus telling them no one should steal, but rather should endeavor to earn an honest wage doing honest work. Not only are we to avoid stealing, but we are to do the opposite action and earn our way honestly.

Ninth Commandment: Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. (Exodus 20:16)
The act of giving false testimony against another is abhorrent in the sight of God. Was this not the method chosen by those who sought the crucifixion of Christ (Mark 14:57)? Romans 13:9-10 repeats that we are to love others, and that this commandment is as much a part of what we are to do as Christians as it was a part of the law of Moses. Moreover, as this is a form of lying, and as all lying is condemned (Colossians 3:9), we must put away.

Tenth Commandment: Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's. (Exodus 20:17)
Covetousness, that consuming desire for what others have, must be avoided. In Colossians 3:5, Paul equates covetousness with idolatry, that is, putting something ahead of God. Again, in Ephesians 5:3-4, covetousness is one of the things which should not even be named among those who are striving to follow Christ.

These commandments we strive to keep. Not because the Lord gave them to the Israelites through Moses, but because the Lord has taught them to us in the New Testament. Let us do so!

The Ten Commandments: 1-5

2009-04-06T08:46:00.000-07:00

The ten commandments are often referred to by people. Interestingly enough, they are not named as separate from the rest of the law, or numbered. The majority of people hold them as still binding. Numerous churches list them as official parts of their doctrine. Yet we know today that the laws given through Moses are not binding on us today (Colossians 2:14, Ephesians 2:15). However, nine of these commandments are repeated in the New Testament. And the exception, the Sabbath, has a corollary in the New Testament (and it isn't Sunday). Let us consider each of these commands in turn, and then see what the New Testament has to say for us on these subjects.

First Commandment: Thou shalt have no other gods before me. (Exodus 20:3)
We see this same admonition to place God first in our lives in passages such as Matthew 6:24, 6:33, and I Corinthians 8:4-5). There is no other God, nor anything else, that should be of more importance to us than the Lord (Luke 14:26). We obey this commandment not because it was in the Law of Moses, but because it was given by Christ under the New Covenant.

Second Commandment: Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: (Exodus 20:4)
Just as the Hebrews were commanded to not have idols, so are we (I Corinthians 10:14 and Galatians 5:19-21). We are given more explanation in passages such as Colossians 3:5 as to what God considers idolatry. Anything that we desire or elevate to a place higher than God, to us, is an idol. Not only are we to not bow before an object as a god, we are not to place anything in our lives in a position of being greater than the Lord.

Third Commandment: Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. (Exodus 20:6)
The Israelites were to take care when applying the name of the Lord to anything. We too are warned against improper speech, whether in oaths (Matthew 5:33-37, James 5:12), in purity (James 3:9-12, Ephesians 4:29-32), or in how we approach others (I Peter 3:15).

Fourth Commandment: Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. (Exodus 20:7)
Many refer to the Lord's Day as the Christian sabbath. However, this is not the case. The sabbath rest of the Christian is referred to in Hebrews 4. Our sabbath is heaven. Until then, we must continue to do the work of the Lord. Just as the Hebrews were to work six days, and then the sabbath, we are to work until our sabbath: an eternity of rest with God.

Fifth Commandment: Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. (Exodus 20:12)
Honoring father and mother are as important in the new covenant as in the old. Christ taught this in Matthew 15:1-6. It is repeated in Ephesians 6:1-4. It is important to pay the respect and obedience to parents that we should.

Next week, Lord willing, we will look at the next five commandments. We remember, once again, that we do not hold to the ten commandments as found in the Old Testament. We instead hold to the teachings of Christ.

Between Malachi and Matthew: Lasting Effects

2009-03-27T12:46:00.000-07:00

As we wrap up a very brief look at the time between the testaments, we will look at some of the results that affect the New Testament.

Language
Hebrew - Hebrew was, by this time, largely a dead language, replaced by Aramaic and Greek. Which is why the New Testament is written in Greek, and not Hebrew. Why is this important? The words in a dead language do not change, making translation and understanding more sure.

Koine Greek – Alexander the Great strove to bring about a world culture based on and emulating Greek society. Part of this was in language. As Greek became the common language (koine means “common”), it became that which was often used in writing, thus the New Testament was written in Greek. Shortly after the New Testament was written, it too died as a language.

Sects
Pharisees – The Pharisees were a group that was dedicated to zealously keeping even the “least” part of the law of Moses. Over time, they came to put equal emphasis on traditions that they had come up with. They were regarded by most as the most pure or holy of the Jews, and were generally made up of people of the middle and lower classes. The Pharisees opposed Christ, and the apostle Paul was formerly a Pharisee.

Sadducees – The Saducees were a religious sect made up primarily of the upper classes of Jewish society (the wealthy, priests, etc.) and were generally regarded as the more conservative of the religious sects at the time. One of the major divisions between Pharisees and Saducees is that Saducees did not believe in resurrection. The Sadducees by the time of the New Testament were a small group whose power was felt primarily in the Sanhedrin.

Herodians – The Herodians were not a religious sect. Rather, they were a political party. These were Jews who supported the reign of Herod the Great and his family. These individuals were in favor of hellenization, of Roman involvement in Judea, and of the policies put in place by the Herodian family. The apostle Matthew, as a tax collector, was probably a Herodian.

Zealots – Zealots were the opposite of the Herodians. Early zealots would include the Macabbees we looked at last week. They were fierce nationalists who often held it as a religious duty to remove any influence from outside nations and to gain independence through any means possible, including military insurrection. It was through their efforts that Judea would later revolt, leading to the destruction of the temple in AD70. The apostle Simon (not Simon Peter) was a zealot.

Nations
Greece – The time of Greek control over the area had brought in the Greek language, ideas, and architectures. Their involvement also brought about much of the division among the Jews themselves.

Idumea/Edom – Because the Macabbees had forced the Idumeans to convert to Judaism, the Herodians to gain power. Herod, of course, put his own people in positions of authority, effectively creating a religious society governed by the least religious.

Rome – Rome policed Judea, enforced Roman laws, and their agents made decisions in most significant court cases. Roman involvement governed a great deal of Jewish life in the first century, as well as providing the infrastructure so important to early evangelism throughout the empire.

Between Malachi and Matthew: From Rebellion to Rome

2009-03-21T08:46:00.000-07:00

Last week we briefly looked at the time in which Persia ruled Judea, and got into the time the Greeks ruled Judea. Specifically, to the reign of Antiochus Epiphanes. Which is where we pick up the story this week.

Antiochus Epiphanes was so named because he claimed to be the epiphany, a manifestation, of the Greek god Zeus. In accordance with this proclamation, he began requiring everyone in his kingdom to pay him homage not only as king, but also as a god. This, of course, caused problems for the Jews, who were to worship only Jehovah. Antiochus also sold the position of high priest among the Jews to those who were willing to pay (the high priest when Antiochus came to power was much opposed to him). One of these men who had bought the position went so far as to build a Greek gymnasium (more than just a place to exercise, it required homage to various Greek gods). Naturally, there was an uproar over the high priest doing such a thing, and rioting was the result. A little later, Antiochus Epiphanes took more direct action. He assaulted Jerusalem, killing a sizable portion of the population. He also took steps to burn all copies of the law, forbid circumcision, forbid feast days and sabbaths, and set out to get rid of Jewish dietary restrictions. Finally, as though this wasn't enough, he set up an altar to Zeus in the temple itself, and offered a pig in sacrifice to the false god.

The rebellion against the Selucid kingdom really began when Mattathias, a priest in Modein, killed a Selucid officer and another man who were attempting to force idolatrous sacrifice. Matthathias and his five sons fled into the hill country, put out a cal to arms, and a number of men answered the call. They began fighting a guerrilla war against the Selucids. Upon Mattathias' death, he appointed his middle son Judas to lead the people in rebellion against the Greeks. This proved a good decision, as Judas, always outnumbered, won a brilliant series of battles against the oppressors. Judas was quickly given the name “Maccabeus,” meaning “hammer.” For a number of years, the control of Jesusalem switched hands between the Selucids and the Jews. Judas Maccabeus was eventually killed in battle, and his brother Simon took control of the army. Simon, in time, was replaced by his son John Hyrcanus. And eventually, under his generalship, the Maccabees won independence way from the Selucids.

In the decades between 105 and 63BC, the Maccabean family declined. There was much infighting and, shall we say, questionable motivation as each strove to gain power. During this time, much effort was spent in forcing the Idumeans (the Greek name for the Edomites) to convert to Judaism. In 63BC, Pompey, a Roman general, led his troops into Jerusalem. This occupation was short lived, as the Parthians (from the east of Judea) overran the area. In large measure, the Roman desire for the area was in order to defend against the Parthians. In 37AD, Judea became a Roman tributary through the actions of Herod the Great. In seeking power, he wanted the approval of Rome (dominated by Caesar Augustus and Mark Antony at the time). And he got it. It's worth noting that Herod was an Idumean, one of those who had been forcibly “converted” to Judaism. Needless to say, his religious convictions were not deep.

And that quickly brings us to the beginning of the New Testament, where Judea, Galilee, and Samaria are Roman tributaries, but technically not part of the Roman Empire, governed over by Herod the Great. And Caesar Augustus, the first emperor of Rome, decided to make a census of the Roman world, for which a man named Joseph and his soon to be wife traveled to a town named Bethlehem.

Next week we will look at some of the long term effects that this 400 years had on life in the New Testament.

Between Malachi and Matthew: From Persia to Greece

2009-03-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

There is a period of about 400 years between when the Old Testament ends, and when the New Testament begins. Lately, some have asked questions about this time period, and how what we see at the end of the Old Testament gets to the very different scenario of the New Testament world. While this, because of a lack of scripture, may be unsuitable as a sermon subject, that is partially the sort of thing I like to include in the bulletin. This week we will look at how Judea went from Persian control to becoming, Hellenized (or Greek-like). While the history presented here will be incomplete, it is hoped that it will help us better understand this time period, and thus the Bible.

The Old Testament closes with Judea under Persian rule. Artaxerxes I was the king who allowed Nehemiah to return and to begin rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. He was followed by his son, Darius II, who extended Persian control into Asia Minor. Upon his death, his son Artaxerxes II took power. His reign was marked by revolt. Egypt separated itself from Persian rule, his brother waged a civil war and was eventually killed in battle, and many of the western satraps (governors) rose up in rebellion and had to be defeated. Although Artaxerxes II maintained control, it was evident that the empire was growing too slippery to hold. His son, Artaxerxes III, largely ruled through blunt force, even to the point of killing his siblings to make sure they didn't rise up against him. He was poisoned by his son in 338BC. His son, Arses, held power for only two years before he and his family was murdered, and replaced by a man who took the name Darius III. During his reign, he was defeated by the Greek, Philip the Macedonian. The Persian Empire (sometimes referred to as the Medo-Persian Empire because of the intermingling of the two peoples) had come to an end.

In 336BC, Philip the Macedonian died. Before that time he had managed to join all the previously independent city states under his rule. Upon his death, his 20 year old son took over. His son was Alexander, who we usually refer to as Alexander the Great. Alexander's great dream was to have the entire world united in a single Hellenized (Greek) society. And so he set out to accomplish that very thing, managing to conquer everything between Greece and India before his death, shortly before his 33rd birthday. Because he focused his goal on creating a Greek society across the world, this is often referred to as the Greek Empire. It is also referred to as the Macedonian Empire.

After Alexander died, the kingdom did not remain united. It was split into several different parts, run by his generals. The ones that concern us are the Selucid and Ptolemaic kingdoms. The Selucid kingdom was that part which was north and east of Judea, occupying a huge swath of land from the Mediterranean in the west to nearly India in the east. It is sometimes also referred to as the Syrian kingdom, as that was the capital area. The Ptolemaic kingdom was essentially Egypt. The Pharaohs had been replaced with Greek rule. If you consider a map, you realize that Judea is right between the two, and naturally enough, was fought over by the two kingdoms. After some brief fighting, Judea came under Ptolemaic rule. During this time, all that was really expected of the Jews by the Greeks was that they would pay their taxes (which, admittedly, where high) and behave themselves. They were not forced to give up their faith, traditions, or way of life, as long as those things happened. However, the Selucid ruler Antiochus III (also called Antiochus the great) wrested control of Judea away from the Ptolemaic kingdom. While at first this seemed a boon to Judea, financial concerns after Anctiochus III's failed confrontation with Rome in 190BC caused a harsher change throughout the Selucid kingdom, including Judea. After his death, his son Seleucus IV reigned. He, in turn, was succeeded by Antiochus IV, better known as Antiochus Epiphanes. And with Antiochus Epiphanes came great change to Judea.

Next week, Lord willing, we will take a glance at the Maccabean Revolt and how Rome came to influence Judea. The following week, we will look at at some long term effects of these events.

Cheating on God

2009-03-08T12:33:00.000-07:00

Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
I Corinthians 6:9-10

We understand what the Bible means when we are told not to commit adultery. We understand what it means when it is condemned in the Old Testament (Exodus 20:14, Proverbs 6:32). We understand what it means when it is condemned in the New Testament (Matthew 5:27-32, Galatians 5:19-21). And so, as Christians, it is something we avoid in marriage. How many marriages have been torn asunder because of an unfaithful spouse? How many families have been broken because of adultery?

And yet, how often do we do as Israel had and commit spiritual adultery? How often are we unfaithful to God? How often do we turn away from Him and turn to somewhere else, effectively cheating on God?

The LORD said also unto me in the days of Josiah the king, Hast thou seen that which backsliding Israel hath done? she is gone up upon every high mountain and under every green tree, and there hath played the harlot. And I said after she had done all these things, Turn thou unto me. But she returned not. And her treacherous sister Judah saw it. And I saw, when for all the causes whereby backsliding Israel committed adultery I had put her away, and given her a bill of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Judah feared not, but went and played the harlot also. And it came to pass through the lightness of herwhoredom, that she defiled the land, and committed adultery with stones and with stocks.
Jeremiah 3:6-9

Just as adultery often results in the dissolution of a marriage relationship, when we pursue something other than God (Matthew 6:33), we risk dissolving our relationship with God. We must be careful to remain faithful to the Lord. We must be sure that we remain true.

Be submissive to Christ -Ecclesiastes 5:24
Serve no other -Matthew 6:24
Have no idols/covetousness -Colossians 3:5
Remember our first love -Revelation 2:4-5

Let us all strive to be faithful to the Lord. Let us all strive to keep our spiritual relationship intact, that we may be with Him for eternity.

Driving Like a Madman

2009-02-27T09:52:00.000-08:00

And the watchman told, saying, He came even unto them, and cometh not again: and the driving is like the driving of Jehu the son of Nimshi; for he driveth furiously.

II Kings 9:20

The watchman on the walls of Jezreel could tell who was coming towards them from the way the chariot was being driven. As the King James says, “furiously.” The NIV reads, “The driving is like that of Jehu son of Nimshi--he drives like a madman." It's easy to imagine the scene as Jehu approaches. We are given idea of the speed and apparent recklessness of Jehu's chariot. And apparently, he was well known for this. It made him conspicuous and visible.

As Christians, we should be just as visible. Not for driving like a madman, hopefully. But for doing as the Lord wills. We should be obviously Christians.

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Matthew 5:14-16

I'm sure you have driven at night before and seen lights in the distance. Have you ever noticed how far away the light is visible? From many miles away, it is possible to see even a relatively dim light when all else is darkness. How bright of a light are you? Are you the dim light? Or are you a blazing reflection of Christ's light?

If we, as Christ's servants are not obviously Christians, then what are we recognized as? Truthfully, the only other alternative is to be recognized as worldly.
If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.

John 15:18-20

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.

I John 3:1

Are you known by and as the world? Or as a follower of Christ? Those are the only two choices available to us. We will be recognized by those around us as one or the other. More importantly, we will be recognized by God as one or the other. If you've been living a worldly life, there's a solution:
Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:

I Peter 4:1-4

The solution is to simply stop doing the things of the world. We have all spent more than enough time doing the things of the world. Let us each strive to be obviously Christians. Let us make sure that our lives leave no doubt as to whether or not we follow the Lord.

Doctrine

2009-02-20T10:34:00.000-08:00

Doctrine (Gr. didache – denotes teaching, that which is taught, the act of teaching). It's a loaded word these days, isn't it? It's a word that people often try to shy away from. A word that people don't like to hear. A word that people don't want to use. And often someone says something like, “Just preach the gospel, and less doctrine.” Let us then consider what the Bible has to say about doctrine, and use that as our guide.

Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

I Timothy 4:13-16

Paul, in giving instructions to Timothy on preaching and teaching, exhorts him to spend time teaching and following doctrine. In fact, there are more occurrences of the term “doctrine” in Paul's letters to Timothy and Titus, in instructing what to teach, than in any other section of scripture. This seems to indicate that understanding and teaching doctrine is pretty important. If it was important for Paul, Timothy, and Titus, it is important for us as well.
But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:

Titus 1:9

And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Acts 2:42

The early Christians continued in the doctrine taught by the apostles. If you recall, the apostles taught what Christ had taught (Matthew 28:18-20) and by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. They certainly didn't shy away from such things. And neither did the early Christians as they continued in fellowship. They observed proper doctrine. So must we.
For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.

I Timothy 10:10-11

This is another interesting passage: doctrine and the gospel are tied together. Sound doctrine is according to, and included in, the gospel. They cannot be separated. Doctrine, whether on salvation, worship, marriage, fellowship, or any other topic, is a part of gospel. If we reject the doctrine of Christ and the apostles, we reject part of the gospel of Christ. If we turn away from the gospel, we find ourselves in opposition to God (Galatians 1:6-9).

Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

Ephesians 4:13-14

We see three things in this passage in dealing with the subject at hand. First, doctrine is necessary for having unity in the faith. Second, that a mature Christian has knowledge of doctrine. Third, it is possible to follow after false doctrine. God gave one doctrine, and one doctrine only. We must adhere to it.

Doctrine was important to Christians from the very beginning. The doctrine, the teachings, of Christ and those men who the Holy Spirit worked through to give us the scriptures, must be important to us as well. We cannot turn from it. We must strive to know it. We must strive to follow it. We must strive to teach it.

Salvation

2009-02-14T09:38:00.000-08:00

Salvation is presented in several different tenses in the New Testament. In some cases, it is spoken of as being in the present. In other cases, it is described as being in the future. Let us take a few moments to consider each of these ways salvation is presented, and see why this important subject is described in this way. It is also stated as being something God has done, and something we must do for ourselves. It is spoken of as being available. It is also offered as being conditional.

The Present:
For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.

I Corinthians 1:18

There is a sense in which those who have put on Christ (Gal. 3:27) are saved. We can have confidence that our soul is in a good standing with the Lord.

The Future:
But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.

I Thessalonians 5:8

Paul writes here, to those who are already Christians, that their salvation is a hope. You don't hope for something that is currently assured. There is very much a way in which we are not saved until judgment day, and are found to be following the Lord's will.

By God:
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God

Ephesians 2:8

We cannot be saved by our own virtue or hard work: only God has the power and ability to save us. We must be duly grateful for what the Lord has done for us.

By Ourselves:

With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation."

Acts 2:40

Although we cannot be saved without God, we are still required to put forth effort. God requires that we fear Him and do works of righteousness (Acts 10:34-35) as the conditions for receiving His gift.

Available:
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.

Titus 2:11

Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious.

Romans 11:11

God has made salvation available to all. It has appeared/come to all men. Nonetheless, we know that not all men are in a saved condition (Matthew 7:13-14).

Conditional:
Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received, in which also you stand, by which also you are saved, if you hold fast the word which I preached to you, unless you believed in vain.

I Corinthians 15:1-2

In this, and other passages, we see an “if,” a condition attached to salvation. We can forfeit our salvation if we choose something over following Christ.

The Lord's Supper

2009-02-07T10:18:00.000-08:00

And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body. And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them: and they all drank of it. And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many. Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God.
Mark 14:22-25

On the night Christ was betrayed, He instituted for us a memorial. We usually refer to this as the Lord's Supper or Communion. It is a solemn time for us to consider the sacrifice that was made for each one of us as individuals. It is an occasion to reflect on our lives, our spiritual condition, and our relationship with the Lord.

We see the physical elements of it, the bread and the fruit of the vine. Because it was during the feast of unleavened bread prior to passover, the bread would have been unleavened. The fruit of the vine indicates, well, juice made from grapes. As these are the things that Christ uses in instituting the Lord's Supper, they are what we continue to use to this day.

We also see in I Corinthians that it is possible to abuse the Lord's Supper.
When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord's supper. For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken. What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise you not. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come. Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another. And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come.
I Corinthians 11:20-34

We must be careful to have the proper attitude and mindset when we partake. It should be one of reverence and dedication. It is not something we do lightly.

We can also see the example set for us in the New Testament of partaking on the first day of the week in Acts 20:7.
And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.
This makes perfectly good sense, as the first day of the week is the day on which Christ rose from the dead. It is fitting then, that it is on that day that we remember the sacrifice Christ made, and the gift that resulted from it: salvation.

My Old Man

2009-01-31T07:46:00.001-08:00

But ye have not so learned Christ; If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Ephesians 4:20-34

For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.
Romans 6:5-6

Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.
Colossians 3:5-11

Have you put aside your old man? Or do you still see him sometimes? We understand what these verses are telling us to do: to put away those things that are not Christ-like, those things which are worldly, those things which are sin. And not only that, but we to begin doing those things which are Christ-like, which are spiritual, which are righteous. It should be as though we are an entirely different person from what we once were. Paul writes that Christians were once among the worst of people (I Corinthians 6:9-11), but after choosing to follow Christ, we are changed. Peter writes a similar concept in I Peter 4:3: that we have spent enough time doing the things of the world before we converted.

So are we really living in such a way as to be a new man? Or are we the same old man with some camouflage to make us seem more religious? If we want to live with Christ for eternity, we must put on the new man. Interestingly enough, there is someone else we are supposed to put on, isn't there?

For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
Galatians 3:27
If we are to put on the new man, and we are to put on Christ...the obvious implication is that the new man must be like Christ. And that before put on the new man, we are not like Christ, but like His enemies, those who oppose Him. There is no middle ground. So are you the old man, or the new man?

"Who am I?"

2009-01-24T13:47:00.000-08:00

In Exodus 3:7-12, Moses' first excuse to God for trying to get out of going to Egypt is to ask, “Who am I?” Is this not a question we ask? “Who am I? I can't make a difference!” And yet we know what a difference Moses made. If we look through the scriptures, we see time and again a single person making a tremendous difference.

In Genesis 18:23-33, what difference would there have been if there had been only 10 righteous people in Sodom? Later, when Israel set about conquering the promised land, thank of the difference Rahab made in hiding the spies (Joshua 2:1-7). And just a short time later, think of the difference made by Achan, when he hid loot in his tent after the destruction of Jericho, and the deaths that were the consequence (Joshua 7:1-15). In the 17th chapter of I Samuel, we see several individuals having a great impact on nations. Goliath caused the entire Israelite army to fear and remain in place. What an impact he had! And then, when David, one individual, did something about it, the Israelites took heart and the Philistines fled. Or think of Esther, and the difference she made: she saved the entire Hebrew people.

And it's not only in the Old Testament that we see such a huge difference being made by individuals. If not for John, who would prepare the way for Christ (Matthew 3:1-12)? Or consider what difference was made by Judas Iscariot (Mark 14:10-11, 43-45). In John 4:39-42, we see a woman having a great impact in bringing others to Christ. Or consider the impacts that Saul/Paul had. When we first see Saul, he is persecuting the church, causing concern among all Christians (Acts 8:1-3). Later, consider the difference Paul makes in his traveling, preaching, and writing.

Time and again, individuals make a huge impact. If they can make a difference, we can too. We are told that the great men and women and faith provide us with evidence that it can be done.
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:1-2

So what can I do to make a difference? What can you do to make a difference? We can teach, whether by word or example or by print, formally or informally. We can encourage, whether in word or by card. We can train our children. We can do good works and lend a helping hand where it is needed. Whether for good or for evil, each of us will make a difference in this life. Will we make a positive difference, like David? Or will the difference we make be detrimental, like Achan?

Translations and Paraphrases

2009-01-17T09:38:00.000-08:00

We are surrounded by different translations of the Bible. Each one often represented by what seems an incomprehensible list of letters: KJV, NKJV, ASV, NASB, NIV, ESV, YLT, and so on. In addition to translations, there are a great many paraphrases being sold, most famously The Message and The Living Bible. So what is the difference between all of these? Why are there so many?

First, we need to recognize the difference between a translation and a paraphrase. A translation is the original words translated from the original language (be it Hebrew, Aramaic, or Koine Greek) into another language (in our case, English). Effort is put into making sure that the meaning of individual words are not lost, and that each word is as accurately translated as possible. A paraphrase, on the other hand, is when a person or group of persons looks at a translation, then paraphrases it according to what they think it means. Rather than going to the original language and striving to give specific meanings to words, the effort is made to give the idea of the entire text. While this is often easy to read, the meaning of the text is often lost or changed dramatically. After all, if a person is paraphrasing the scriptures, they are really just stating what they think it means. And as most people know, there are a great many outlandish and just plain wrong beliefs about what the Lord has said.

For study of the scriptures, it is best to use a solid, dependable translation. Typically, those that are recommended are the King James Version, the New King James Version, the New American Standard, and the English Standard Version. It's difficult to find, but the American Standard Version is also a very accurate translation. For “heavy” study, a literal translation (in which the syntax of sentences is not modernized, etc.) can be useful (such as Young's Literal Translation), but these make for difficult reading. Paraphrases can be useful as commentaries, but have a great many short failings. Consider these examples of Colossians 2:10:

And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power
(King James Version – KJV)

and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority.
(New International Version – NIV)

and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority;
(New American Standard – NASB)

and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power
(New King James Version – NKJV)

and in him ye are made full, who is the head of all principality and power
(American Standard – ASV)

and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority.
(English Standard Version – ESV)

and in him ye are made full who is the head of all principality and authority
(Young's Literal Translation – YLT)

You don't need a telescope, a microscope, or a horoscope to realize the fullness of Christ.
(The Message - TM)

It is easy to see, in this and in many other places in scripture, the difference between a translation and a paraphrase. As we will be judged by the word (John 12:48, Hebrews 4:12), is it not best to use a solid and dependable translation in our striving to follow Christ? Moreover, dare we stand guilty of changing what the Lord has said? In Revelation 22:18-19, as well as in many other places in scripture, we are warned against changing what the Lord has said. Doing so is wrong, and we stand condemned if we do so.

What Must I Believe?

2009-01-10T14:53:00.000-08:00

This is a question that is often asked, is it not? People who want to know if they are ready to be baptized ask this question. People who teach others ask this question in helping to know if a person is ready to obey the gospel. And it's often given long answers. Often we may answer it with explanations of various doctrines. Yet the Bible gives us several short, easy to understand answers to this question.

Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.

I John 5:1

And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Matthew 16:16
We must believe that Jesus is the Son of God, that He is the Christ. We must believe that He is long prophecied and awaited Messiah that came for our salvation.

And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.
I Corinthians 15:14
We must believe that Jesus was crucified for our sins, died, was buried, and rose again on the third day.

And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;
Hebrews 5:9
We must know that He is our Savior if we obey Him. The belief that we must obey Him is vitally important if we are going to actually obey Him.

If we consider passages that deal with the conversion of individuals (Acts 2,8, & 9 for example) , we see very simple initial belief in these things. This is the starting point, the point of choosing to follow the Lord. On Pentecost, Peter told the people gathered who the Christ was, and told them what they needed to do in order to be saved (Acts 2:38). In Acts 8, Philip teaches the Ethiopian Eunuch who makes the good confession as Peter had done, and responds obediently in baptism to be saved. In Acts 9, The Lord appears to Paul, telling Paul who He is. Paul then believes and responds in obedient baptism.

Our initial faith is in just a few key points. And after we obey, consider how we grow in Christ! (Hebrews 5:12-6:3) Consider how much more there is! This initial faith is not the end of our walk with Christ. It is the very beginning.

Walking in Ephesians

2009-01-03T15:09:00.000-08:00

In the Bible, the Christian's life is often compared with walking. The comparison is made to how we walk and the conditions in which we walk. It is, after all, an analogy we understand. So how is our walk? Are we walking in the ways that God tells us to?

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Ephesians 2:10

Are we walking in good works? Are we living a live in which we strive to do godly things in godly ways? Do we do our utmost to obey God? If not, we are falling short of how we are to walk in this life.

I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,

Ephesians 4:1

Are we walking in a manner that is worthy of the name of Christ that we wear? Our vocation is “Christian.” Are we living a life which is worthy of such a name? Or are we pretending to be such? We must be careful to walk in such a worthy manner!

And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.

Ephesians 5:2

Are we walking in love towards God? If so, we will strive to do as He wants. If so, we will give thanks for what He has done. If so, we will rejoice and tell others the gospel. Are we walking in love towards others? If so, we will strive to put their needs above our own. If so, we will work hard to do good unto all.

For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

Ephesians 5:8

Are we walking as children of light? Or do we live lives of darkness and sin, separated by God by our iniquity? We know that the word illuminates our way, that it is provided by our Father that we may see how to walk (Psalm 119:105). Are we His faithful children in walking in that light? In our obedience?

See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

Ephesians 5:15-16

Are we walking wisely? Are we taking the effort to think through what we do and ask the question, “Is this wise?” There is much in scripture that is not laid out for us with direct statements or commands. Yet we see principles that we can use wisely, in accordance with what God wants, to follow Him. Are we doing so?

This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind

Ephesians 4:17

Or are we walking as we should not: as the unbeliever walks, falsely feeling secure in ourselves?

Some Benefits of Daily Bible Reading

2008-12-27T07:15:00.000-08:00

As has long been advertised, this week will begin the daily Bible reading schedule for reading the Bible through in a year. So what's the point of it? What do we get out of daily reading and study?

Increasing our knowledge of God's will
My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge:

Hosea 4:6

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

II Peter 3:18

We should strive to increase our knowledge of God, of God's will, and of how we can be pleasing to Him. As Hosea states, knowledge is important for salvation. In Israel's case, it led to their punishment and captivity. In our case, a lack of knowing what God wants leads to eternal punishment. And Peter makes the statement that we should grow in knowledge, beyond the little that we need to know initially. The more we know, the closer we can draw to God, because the better we know how. The more we understand God's word, the stronger we can be in His service. And daily reading and study will help us gain the knowledge that gives us this further understanding.

Increasing our ability to teach
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

I Peter 3:15

Have you ever tried to teach something that you don't know very well? It's difficult. If we want to be better able to give an answer for why we believe what we believe, if we want to be better able to teach others the gospel of Christ, then we need to know what the gospel is. Daily study will increase our ability to teach others about Christ. And by teaching, there is hope that more souls may be saved.

Opportunity to study as a family
And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.

Deuteronomy 6:7-9

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

II Timothy 3:15

I remember, when I was a child, sitting with my parents and siblings and reading the Bible. I remember discussing what the verses we had read meant. A daily reading schedule can be useful for helping each other in the family. It is opportunity to strengthen and edify each other. It is an opportunity to further dedicate the family to Christ.

Let us all strive to dedicate ourself to the reading and understanding of God's word!

What Happened Between the Testaments?

2008-12-21T11:12:00.000-08:00

There is a space between Malachi and Matthew of about 400 years. During this 400 years, much happened that is not recorded in scripture. At the end of the Old Testament, the Jews have returned from captivity, have rebuilt Jerusalem and the temple, and are under governance (at least nominally) by the Persian Empire. At the beginning of the New Testament, Israel has been divided into separate territories, overseen by Rome. How did it get from the one case of affairs to the other?

In Daniel 2:24-45, God gives Nebuchadnezzar, through Daniel, the explanation of a dream. This dream lays out the general case of affairs for the next several hundred years. The dream is of a statue, composed of various materials. The head of gold is Nebuchadnezzar, king of the Babylonian Empire. That kingdom will be replaced by a kingdom represented by the silver chest: the Medo-Persian Empire (usually referred to as the Persian Empire in secular history – Medo-Persian refers to the Persian Empire's conquering of the Medes, and then of the Medes becoming the ruling class). Later in the book of Daniel, as well as in other histories, this is recorded. This empire will be replaced by the Greek, or Macedonian Empire: the bronze belly. History tells us how the Persian empire was defeated by the Greeks, and of how Alexander the Great came to rule a vast area of the world. The dream then states that this kingdom will be replaced by a fourth kingdom, which is represented by the iron legs and the feet mixed of iron and clay. This kingdom is the Roman Empire, which is what we find in the New Testament. This is further made apparent by the mention of the fifth kingdom, the rock not cut by human hands that grows into a mountain. That rock and mountain is the church.

Without going into a great deal of historical detail (hopefully just enough to explain things without getting boring), let us consider how things went from Babylon to Rome. In Daniel 5, it is recorded how the Medo-Persians conquered Babylon almost effortlessly. From this point the Persian Empire continued to spread (and it was during this time that the Jews were permitted to return to Jerusalem and the surrounding area). Eventually, it attempted to invade Greece, which was at this point a collection of city-states. The result was disastrous for the Persians, who were soundly defeated and weakened. This enabled Alexander the Great, some years later, to effectively conquer the world. It was though his efforts that the Greek in which the New Testament is written was spread and made the common language. After Alexander's death, the kingdom was split into three parts, and Judea became a much fought over location, changing hands several times.

Eventually, Israel won independence through uprisings led by the Maccabees (note: it is this occasion that the celebration of Hanukkah is a memorial for). As the line of the Maccabees dwindled over time, and through some murky politics, the Herodian family came into power, with the aid and support of Rome. In order to gain and maintain their power, they allied themselves with Rome, and Judea, Galilee, and Samaria become Roman territories. Technically not part of the Roman Empire, but subject to it. This state of affairs would last until the AD70s, when Rome destroyed Jerusalem and a great many Jews in the Jewish War. At that point, this area of the world was formally made part of the Roman Empire.

Yes, I know this is an oversimplified view of history, but it gives you a rough idea of 400 years, in the space of a few hundred words. Hopefully it helps make the transition from Malachi to Matthew more understandable. For more information, I recommend “Reader's Digest Atlas of the Bible” (Pages 144-171) and “History and Geography of the Bible” by Bob and Sandra Waldron.

Finding Your Way Around the Bible, Part 7

2008-12-13T20:08:00.000-08:00

Last week we looked at Paul's letters and some of the other epistles in the New Testament. This week we finish the Bible.
Other Epistles: (Letters by men other than Paul)

1 Peter

Peter wrote this letter to a number of people who were scattered over a wide area. In his writing, Peter gives encouragement and direction to Christians in living for Christ. He also gives instruction regarding suffering for the cause of Christ, and what our attitude towards it should be.

2 Peter

In this letter, Peter gives wisdom and instruction in the difference between God's word and messengers and false teachers. He also gives information on the destruction of the world. It is “bookended” by admonishments to live a proper Christian life.

1 John

John's first letter is largely focused around the theme of love. He addresses the love God has for us. He addresses the love we, as Christians, should have for God. He addresses the love we should not have towards the world and the things of the world. And he addresses the love we should have for each other.

2 John

The addressee of this letter is either a specific woman, or the church (with “the chosen lady” used metaphorically). This short letter admonishes the reader to adhere to God's word and not deviate from it. John also warns of those who will teach other than the gospel of Christ.

3 John

John writes this letter and speaks of three people. Gaius, to whom the letter is addressed, is commended for his faith and works. Diotrephes is condemned for his pride. And Demetrius is stated as being praised by many.

Jude

This letter is written by Jude, apparently the Jude who was brother to Jesus. He writes warning of men who have entered among them and have been both living sinful lives and teaching sin. He then encourages the reader to persevere and remain faithful to Christ.

Revelation

John writes this last book in the New Testament. It is the revelation of Christ, addressed to seven churches. Each of these churches is commended and/or condemned for their actions. The majority of the book is highly figurative, and deals with what is to come. It ends with several chapters on judgment and eternity. It is perhaps the most difficult of the books of the Bible to study, and is easily (and often) twisted.

It is my hope that these very, very, very brief overviews of each book will help us in remembering where things are at in the Bible, and in how the Bible is organized. I realize that much has been left out, but nonetheless I hope it has been beneficial.

Moreover, I hope that this will be used as preparation for reading through the Bible in a year, starting January 1. Beginning the week of Dec. 28, I will be placing a weekly schedule for Bible reading on the back of this bulletin that I hope we can all follow.

Finding Your Way Around the Bible, Part 6

2008-12-06T09:15:00.000-08:00

Last week we began the New Testament. This week we continue with the last of Paul's epistles.
Paul's General Epistles: (Letters written to congregations)

Colossians

Paul wrote the church in Colosse while imprisoned in Rome. In this letter, he writes a good deal about Christ, and His role. He speaks of what Christ did for man, how to live for Christ, and of course, of who Christ is.

1 Thessalonians

Paul writes this letter, acknowledging the good that the church in Thessalonia had been doing, even to the point of saying they serve as a model. Unlike some of Paul's other letters, there is relatively little condemnation of a congregation's sins in this book. Instead, the church is encouraged, and offered hope. Paul also takes time to answer questions about the day of the Lord.

2 Thessalonians

The occasion for this letter appears to be confusion and distress about the day of the Lord. Paul once again explains to the church in Thessalonia about it (at least, as much as is given to man to know).

Paul's Personal Epistles: (Sometimes called the pastoral epistles)

1 Timothy

Paul wrote to Timothy to encourage him in the work of an evangelist. In it, Paul speaks to Timothy of how to admonish and rebuke, and of how to edify and encourage. The role and work of a preacher are wonderfully explained. Also in this book are qualifications of elders and deacons.

2 Timothy

Probably the last book written by Paul (chronologically), this letter to Timothy provides hope, encouragement, and warnings about what is to come. There is a marked contrast in this book between the faithful servant of God and those who will turn against the Lord.

Titus

Paul writes to Titus in much the same way as he wrote to Timothy. He encourages Titus in his work in preaching and teaching. Paul offers guidance to Titus on how to teach different groups of people, as well as what to teach them. Also in this book are the qualifications of elders.

Philemon

The shortest of Paul's letters, the book is written regarding a slave (Onesimus) who ran away from his master (Philemon), and who was converted to Christ by Paul. This letter serves to teach us how to regard our brethren, how we should act as Christians, and that we need to do what we can to make things right when we have sinned against someone.

Other Epistles: (Letters by men other than Paul)

Hebrews

Alone of the New Testament books, we do not know who wrote Hebrews. Many believe it is Paul, but as it is not stated in the book, we do not know for sure. This book serves as an explanation of Christianity to Jewish converts. It is an in depth examination of Christ as the Messiah and of how He fulfilled the Old Testament. Also in this book is the “hall of faith,” in which faithful individuals of the Old Testament are put forward as examples to us.

James

The author of this book appears to be James the brother of Jesus. It is a letter to which great pains are taken to explain the practical nature of following Christ. It is full of works that need to be done, works to be avoided, and explanation of the necessity of both faith and obedient action.

Finding Your Way Around the Bible, Part 5

2008-11-28T13:20:00.000-08:00

Last week we finished the Old Testament books. This week we begin with the New Testament.
The Gospels: ('gospel' means 'good news'):

Matthew, Mark, Luke

These three are sometimes called the “synoptic gospels.” While each stresses different things in the life of Christ, there is much overlap in these accounts. They detail the life of Jesus from before His birth to His ascension into Heaven. They are written by Matthew, Mark, and Luke, respectively.

John

John's gospel is a bit different from the others. While the synoptic gospels are more along the lines of a historical account, John's gospel is more specifically aimed at causing belief. Whereas the other three gospels give the account of Christ's life, John uses Christ's life to show that Jesus is God and encourage the faith of the reader.

The Book of History (NT):

Acts

The book of Acts was written by Luke as a sequel to his gospel account. In this rather lengthy book (Luke wrote more of the New Testament than any other, even though Paul wrote more books), Luke details the first years of the church. He begins with Christ's final discussion with His disciples and His ascension. We then see the founding of the church and the early spread of Christianity. Often called “The Acts of the Apostles,” it spends the first part focusing on Peter, and the second part focusing on Paul.
Paul's General Epistles: (Letters written to congregations)

Romans

Paul's letter to the church in Rome deals largely with the matter of gentiles who now follow Christ. Paul spends much time in explaining that gentiles in Christ are just as much God's people as Jews who converted to Christ. He also spends a good deal of time giving practical advice for living a Christian life.

1 Corinthians

Paul wrote his first letter to the church in Corinth largely for two reasons. The first reason is that he had heard of the sin they were allowing, and wanted to let them know what they needed to do about it. The second main reason is that the church in Corinth had evidently asked him questions regarding marriage, which Paul goes on to answer. He also uses the letter to prove his apostleship, give practical advice on Christian living, directions for the Lord's Supper, and instructions for the uses of spiritual gifts.

2 Corinthians

Paul writes this second letter to Corinthian for any number of reasons. In it he validates his apostleship (which some apparently doubted), commends the church for acting against sin, gives instructions for collections, and warns against false teachers and allowing themselves to be led astray.

Galatians

As with his other letters, Paul writes to the church in Galatia for several reasons. Largely, Paul writes in an effort to correct false doctrine being taught regarding continued keeping of the old law. Among other memorable verses, Paul writes of the fruit of the spirit and the acts of the flesh.

Ephesians

This letter is slightly less centered around a specific congregation's problems and is a bit more general in tone. Once more, it is filled with practical guidance on living for Christ. More prominent passages include the last few chapters, in which Paul lays out the role of everyone (wives, husbands, servants, etc.) and describes the armor of God.

Philippians

Much of this letter is spent on the subject of a Christian's relationship with Christ and the role of Christ in one's life. We also learn of Paul's concern for the churches, and the efforts of Paul's associates in helping spread the gospel and edify the saints.

(It must be noted that all of these descriptions are brief and incomplete. Much is not said in these paragraphs that is contained in the books themselves.)

Finding Your Way Around the Bible, Part 4

2008-11-22T16:16:00.000-08:00

Last week we looked at the history books and major prophets of the Old Testament. This week we finish the Old Testament with the minor prophets.
The minor prophets (OT): (so called because of the length of their books)

Hosea

Hosea wrote this book in which the Lord, in detail, explains Israel's unfaithfulness. The Lord then warns that they will be punished for that unfaithfulness, but adds that if they return to the Lord that things will improve for them. This book was written at the end of the northern kingdom, before its captivity.

Joel

Joel uses the phrase “the day of Lord” which many have taken out of context. Joel prophecies of the coming destruction of Israel by Assyria and of Israel's deliverance if they repent. He also makes a prophecy of the church which comes to pass in Acts 2.

Amos

Amos begins this book by stating God's judgment on all the nations surrounding Israel. And then states God's judgment on Israel and the sins of Israel. As with other prophets, there is hope offered at the end of the book.

Obadiah

Obadiah writes the shortest book in the Old Testament. It is a condemnation and warning given to Edom. The Lord promises them that they will be destroyed because of the role they played in Israel's downfall. Obadiah is one of just a few books written to those not of God's people.

Jonah

Jonah was told to go to Nineveh. He chose to run via ship. God sent a storm, Jonah was thrown into the water and swallowed by a great fish (it's not specified as a whale). Jonah repents, prays, and is permitted to go to Nineveh. When he preaches there, people repent and Jonah is upset. God uses the opportunity to explain His mercy.

Micah

Micah begins as most of the prophets do: with condemnation of Israel's sins and of God's judgment on them. He then intersperses prophecies of the Messiah and the Messiah's kingdom (looking ahead to the church).

Nahum

Nahum is speaking to Nineveh in this book. It is God's judgment on the city, and the destruction that is to befall them because of their sins.

Habakkuk

This book is essentially a question and answer session between the prophet and God. Hosea wants to know why sin has gone unpunished and why God uses the wicked to punish His people when punishment does happen. God gives details as to what will happen, both to unfaithful Israel and to the Babylonians who He will use in punishing their sins. In the end, Habakkuk's faith is strengthened.

Zephaniah

Zephaniah writes of Judah's sins. The Lord then speaks through Him to warn of their impending captivity. Also included in this book are Messianic prophecies and prophecies of the church, when God's blessings are opened to all nations.

Haggai

Haggai wrote after the return from captivity. His book is largely encouragement and warnings given while the temple was being rebuilt.

Zechariah

The most figurative of the minor prophets, God's revelation appears in visions to Zechariah. His book is also the lengthiest of the minor prophets. He is highly Messianic in his prophecies, looking ahead to the Christ. It is a dense book, and considered one of the more difficult books of the Bible.

Malachi

Malachi condemns the unfaithfulness of Israel: particularly the priests. The leaders of Israel are rebuked for their failures. It ends with prophecies of John the Baptist, which is how the New Testament begins.

Finding Your Way Around the Bible, Part 3

2008-11-16T11:18:00.000-08:00

Last week we looked at the history books of the Old Testament. This week we begin with the Old Testament books of wisdom and poetry.
The Books of Wisdom/Poetry (OT):

Job

This is the account of Job, a righteous man who was tested and tried. This is the oldest book in the Bible, having been written before the Law of Moses. Job was roughly a contemporary of Abraham. In this account Job loses his wealth, his family, and his health, yet does not turn away from God. Authorship is unknown.

Psalms

This is the longest book in the Bible, containing 150 different psalms. Each psalm is a specific song. There are many varied themes, as well as different authors. There are psalms of praise, psalms asking for help, psalms of thanksgiving, and psalms prophesying of the Christ (among other subjects). Perhaps the most famous author of some of the psalms is David.

Proverbs

For the most part, this book is filled with short proverbs. A proverb is a short, pithy statement filled with wisdom. Wisdom can be found on nearly any subject imaginable. One of the more famous passages is in chapter 31, where the wife of noble character is described. Solomon is the author of most of this book.

Ecclesiastes

Ecclesiastes is Solomon recounting his efforts to find what is good and worthwhile in this life. He tries everything from work to pleasure, from wealth to power. And in his final conclusion, he realizes that without God, it is all meaningless. He sums up by stating the the whole of man is to fear God and keep His commandments.

Song of Solomon/Song of Songs

There are two common titles given for this book. It recounts the story of Solomon wooing a Shulamite shepherdess. We learn much of the nature of romantic love in this book, both what is pure and acceptable, and what is wrong and sinful.

The Major Prophets (OT): (so-called due to the length of their books)

Isaiah

This is a lengthy book, detailing the prophecies of Isaiah. Much of the book is spent in condemnations of nations, as well as prophecies of Israel's deliverance. There is much in Isaiah of the coming Messiah (that is, Christ). Isaiah is the author of this book.

Jeremiah

Jeremiah is similar in m any ways to Isaiah, as well as the other prophets. The majority of the subject matter is the upcoming destruction of Israel because of the nation's disobedience to the Lord. Jeremiah is occasionally known as the “weeping prophet” because of the sorrowful things he is used to foretell and warn of. Jeremiah is the prophet.

Lamentations

This is another book by the prophet Jeremiah and is essentially a lament for Jerusalem, and the destruction the city faces. Once again, the link to punishment and disobedience is made clear. And once again, there is hope offered in returning to God.

Ezekiel

Ezekiel was a prophet who was carried into Babylonian captivity before the final fall of Jerusalem. Ezekiel is full of visions and symbolic imagery. In subject matter is much the same as the warnings and hope offered by other prophets: punishment for disobedience and hope in returning to the Lord. He looks forward in his prophecies to the return of Israel from captivity.

Daniel

Daniel wrote this account. He was a prophet in captivity who rose to prominence in the Babylonian and Medo-Persian empires. Contained in this book are the stories of Daniel in the lion's den, the fiery furnace, and the handwriting on the wall of Belshazzar's feast. He also writes of several important visions which detail what was future chronology of nations, the coming of the Christ, and the establishment of His kingdom.

Finding Your Way Around the Bible, Part 2

2008-11-08T19:51:00.000-08:00

Last week we looked at the basic organization of the Bible and the first five books of the Old Testament. This week we begin with the Old Testament books of History.

The Books of History (OT):

Joshua

Joshua covers the time period when Joshua led the people of Israel. The book's focus is on the conquest of the promised land. Some of the passages we think of most from this book are the fall of Jericho, the sun standing still, the division of the land among the tribes, and Joshua stating, “as for me and for my house, we will serve the Lord.” Its authorship is attributed to Joshua.

Judges

Judges recounts the time after the death of Joshua, but before there were kings in Israel. It deals with those who judged, or ruled, over Israel. It follows a repeating cycle of the people turning from God, God sending a nation to punish and rule over them, the people turning back to God, and God raising up a judge to save the people. Perhaps the most famous person from this book is Samson. It is unknown who the author of this book it.

Ruth

This book is named after the principle figure in the book: Ruth. This book is of great value in learning of the sort of people God wants His people to be. The characters of Ruth and Boaz serve as phenomenal examples for us, and are placed in the genealogy of David, and thus, Christ. The author of this book is unknown.

1 & 2 Samuel

These books were originally grouped as one, but separated to make it less cumbersome. It is the story, primarily, of three people: Samuel, Saul, and David. It begins with Samuel as a child, chronicles the time he served as judge over Israel, and the anointing of Saul, and later David, as king over Israel. Famous portions include Hannah praying in the temple, Saul's wrongful sacrifice, David and Goliath, and David and Bathsheba. Authorship is unknown.

1 & 2 Kings

Once again, these books were one book, but have been separated for the sake of convenience. It is so named because if covers the kings of Israel. The book begins with the decline and death of David and the raising of his son Solomon to the throne. It also covers the division into southern and northern kingdoms, and eventually the captivity of each nation. Authorship is unknown.

1 & 2 Chronicles

Once again, these were originally one book. They chronicle the kings who were descended from David (the kings of Judah). It begins with a genealogy, covers the reigns of David and Solomon, and continues relating the events of the kings of Judah until the fall of Jerusalem in 586BC. Generally speaking, it runs parallel with the books of Samuel and Kings. Authorship is once again unknown.

Ezra

This is the account of Ezra. It details the remnant of Israel returning from captivity to rebuild the temple and the problems they faced in doing so. It was written by Ezra.

Nehemiah

This is the account of Nehemiah, who returned from captivity shortly after Ezra. It details Nehemiah's efforts in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and of Israel rededicating themselves to God. Chronologically, this is the last historical account in the Old Testament. It was written by Nehemiah.

Esther

This is the account of Esther who rises to be queen of the Persia. In doing so, she is placed in a position to be able to save the Jews from destruction. One of the remarkable things about this book is that God is never mentioned, yet His hand is felt strongly in nearly every passage. The author is unknown.

Finding Your Way Around the Bible, Part 1

2008-11-02T12:41:00.000-08:00

There are 66 books of the Bible. 39 of them are in the Old Testament, and 27 are in the New. Within each Testament, the books are arranged in such a way as to make it easier for us to locate books and passages. They are not organized chronologically, but by type of book. Books of prophecy are grouped together, books of history are grouped together, etc. Although the order the books are in is not set in stone, there is a traditional organization that has come to be.

The Old Testament covers from creation until about 400 years before the birth of Christ. The New Testament begins just a few years before Christ's birth, and the last book was written around the year 90AD.

The Old Testament is organized in the following way:
Books of Law: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy
Books of History: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther
Books of Wisdom/Poetry: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon
Books of Prophecy: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi

The New Testament is organized in this way:
The Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John
Book of History: Acts
Paul's General Epistles: Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians
Paul's Personal/Pastoral Epistles: 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon
Other Epistles: Hebrews, James, 1 & 2 Peter, 1 & 2 & 3 John, Jude
Book of Prophecy/Apocalyptic: Revelation

In this and following bulletins, Lord willing, we will take a brief overview of each book of the Bible in hopes that it will make it easier for us all to find our way through the scriptures. If we can remember in general what the book was, we can more easily locate it by placing it in its proper group.

The Books of Law (OT): (also sometimes called the Pentateuch)

Genesis

This is the book of beginnings. It begins with creation and ends with the descendants of Abraham in Egypt. Famous portions include Noah and the ark, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, Jacob and Esau, and the story of Joseph. Other prominent people in the book are Cain and Abel, Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Ishmael, and Israel's sons for whom the tribes are named. The book is attributed to Moses.

Exodus

This the book in which the Israelites exit Egypt after 400 years of slavery. It is most often remembered for the burning bush, the 10 plagues against Egypt and God giving Moses the law at Mt. Sinai. Much of the book is spend detailing parts of the Law given by God. This book is also attributed to Moses.

Leviticus

This book is predominantly given as regulations for the Levites and priests. Most of the book details laws the people were to follow. It is also attributed to Moses.

Numbers

The book is so named because it contains a numbering and census of the Israelites. It also records the time between leaving Sinai and arriving at the promised land (and the beginning of the 40 years of wandering). Oft remembered parts include God giving the people manna and quail, the 12 spies, water coming from a rock, the bronze serpent, and Balaam and his donkey. It too is generally attributed to Moses.

Deuteronomy

This is another book of laws, although it also details parts of the wilderness wanderings. It ends with the death of Moses on Mt. Nebo, with Joshua taking a leadership role. Like the other books of law, it is attributed to Moses.

Pharisees

2008-10-26T10:59:00.000-07:00

The Pharisees were a sect among the Jews in the time of Christ. It was a group of people who held to very strict traditions and rules for living and for the interpretation of the Law of Moses, and which often found themselves opposing the Lord. Today, it is not uncommon to hear someone accused of being “Pharisaical” or of “Phariseeism.” Let us take a look at the Pharisees of Christ's time, and what traits they held that were condemned by Jesus.

Hypocrisy
In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.
Luke 12:1

In this passage the Pharisees are accused, by Jesus, of being hypocritical. That is, they would say one thing, yet do another. Often, they would support a right action, yet for the wrong reasons or they themselves would neglect to act that way. Let us always strive to have our motives, our actions, and our words in accordance with each other and with Christ!

Binding Traditions
For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.
Mark 7:8-9

We see here that the Pharisees were ignoring what the Lord had said, and instead were holding to the rules they had created. We see in other places that they held their own traditions to be of utmost importance, even above the Law. For this, they are condemned by the Lord. Let us always put what God says first! Having traditions is not wrong, but putting them equal to, or above, God's word is condemned!

To Impress Men
And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
Matthew 6:5

We see here that the Pharisees, and those like them, were often focused more on the praise of men than on their service to the Lord. Let us always seek the approval of God more than we seek the approval of men! As Paul later writes, we must please the Lord (Gal. 1:10)

Teaching the Law
All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.
Matthew 23:3

At no time are the Pharisees condemned for teaching and holding to the Law that had been given. Instead, they are condemned for twisting it, for modifying it, and for adding to it. We must not misunderstand the Pharisees to mean that holding the word of God is not important. Rather, we should see in the Pharisees an example of what not to do with it. We must remain true to what the Lord has said, and we must follow it without hypocrisy, without adding our own traditions and laws, and without using it to earn praise for ourselves!

The Seven Churches of Asia: Laodicea

2008-10-19T17:40:00.001-07:00

As we wrap up the seven churches written to in the book of Revelation, we finally come to the church in Laodicea.

Revelation 3:14-22
And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

The Negative:
Christ has nothing good to say to the church in Laodicea. They are lukewarm. Not warm or cold, just lukewarm. In other words, they just are, without any real zeal. Much like those in the days of Isaiah, they are going through the motions of serving the Lord, but it's simply by rote and not from the heart. We must be careful not to allow our service to God to become habit, but must always remember why we're doing good works.

Because they are lukewarm, the Lord warns them that they will be spit out. They will be rejected. God does not want service by habit and rote. He wants service because we want to serve. If we are to be acceptable to God, we must serve from the heart.

We also say that they see themselves as rich, even though spiritually they are poor. Materially they had much. They lacked nothing physically. However, the Lord tells them that they are “wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked.” We must always remember what is more important. While they were willing to rest and feel secure based on what they had physically, it was what they lacked spiritually that was more important. We must always remember to keep the proper priorities.

We also see that in their wealth, they were giving credit to themselves. We must remember, when we prosper, that it is not ourselves that has earned the wealth, but to give credit to the Lord.

At the end of rebuking the church in Laodicea, the Lord tells them to be zealous and repent. If we fall into the same traps as they did, we too must grow in zeal and repent of our wrongful ways. We must not put the physical things above the spiritual. And we must not take credit for ourselves that rightfully belongs to the Lord. And if we repent when we do so, we learn and important lesson from this passage. That the Lord will take us back and forgive us when we turn back to Him

Hopefully these short articles on the seven churches of Asia have been beneficial.

The Seven Churches of Asia: Philadelphia

2008-10-12T18:00:00.000-07:00

As we continue looking at the seven churches written to in the book of Revelation, we come to the church in Philadelphia.

Revelation 3:7-13
And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
The Positive:
This passage begins with Christ indicating that He knows the works of the church in Philadelphia. We see that the Lord has opened a door that cannot be shut for them. And why? Because they have a little strength, have kept His word, and have not denied the Lord.

We too recognize that we have some strength, do we not? Perhaps not a great deal, but we each have some. Let us work to grow and develop that strength that we might accomplish more for the cause of Christ!

We also need to keep Christ's word. We must hold to it and practice what it says. Keeping the word is more than knowing what it says and having a copy of it. Keeping the word is actually setting out to do what it says. Let us keep to Christ's word!

The church in Philadelphia did not deny Christ. In a time when trouble was brought upon the church, they remained true and faithful to the Lord. If they can do it in times of distress and persecution, we should be able to do so in our times of mild “persecution.”

We see also that the Lord commended the church for persevering, which really just sums up the above three points, but adds an element to it. When we persevere in something, it means it was not something simple or easy for us to do. Persevering requires effort. It requires effort. Let us persevere in our walk with Christ! Even though at times it seems difficult, persevere!

The church in Philadelphia did not have it easy. They had to work hard at things. They still had room to grow (and thus, they had “a little strength”). But nonetheless, they kept with it and did not give up. Let us follow their example in this!

Next week, Lord willing, we will wrap up our brief look at the seven churches when we look at the church in Laodicea (Rev. 3:14-22)

The Seven Churches of Asia: Sardis

2008-10-06T10:32:00.000-07:00

As we continue looking at the seven churches written to in the book of Revelation, we come to the church in Sardis.

Revelation 3:1-6
And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

The Positive:
There are some in the church at Sardis who are doing what they need to be doing. They are Christians who are striving diligently for the cause of Christ. These people are described as being “worthy.” What a wonderful statement from our Lord! That we too might be called worthy should be our goal that we strive for. We also see that those who live this way are the ones who overcome. Let us overcome this world, that we might live for Christ!

The Negative:
Although there are some who are doing what is right in Sardis, the church is generally dead, according to the Lord. They are told that they have a reputation for being alive. That is, they have a reputation of standing strong in the service of the Lord. However, they are also told that in reality, they are dead.

It is a terribly thing to come to rely on a reputation without considering whether it is accurate or not. Or to depend on the reputation to avoid working for Christ. It is certainly good to have a reputation of being strongly on the side of Christ, but that reputation, whether of an individual or congregation, must be accurate.

They are also warned to strengthen that which remains. This is good for any of us to do: to strengthen those things that we do right in the service to God. Serving Christ is not just about not doing wrong and doing right, but also about doing so more strongly and diligently than we have in the past. We must be continually improving in our service to God. Otherwise, we too may face Christ's coming with trepidation and not eagerness.

In emphasis of these points, they are told to repent. Let us all be willing to repent of our sins and strive to push on for the cause of Christ! Let us all be willing to heed correction in our lives that we might strengthen ourselves, strengthen the local congregation, and strengthen the cause of Christ.

Next week, Lord willing, we will examine Revelation 3:7-13, which is directed to the church in Philadelphia

The Seven Churches of Asia: Thyatira

2008-09-30T09:37:00.000-07:00

As we continue looking at the seven churches mentioned in the book of Revelation, let us look to their example and see what we might learn from it! Let us avoid their shortcomings and emulate their successes in working together, as a congregation, for the cause of Christ.

And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Revelation 2:18-29

The Positive:
The church in Thyatira was an active church full of works, love, service, faith, and patience. Moreover, their works had become more plentiful than they had been at first. In this way, they were growing stronger. The longer they served Christ, the more effort they put into it. Can the same be said for us? Both as individuals and as a congregation? We see in these verses a picture of a church that is working diligently in the service to God.

The Negative:
They had been allowing a woman, designated here as Jezebel, to teach falsehood and lead others into sinful practices. For this, they are condemned and warned. We too must be careful not to accept such a person. What good does it do anyone (you, me, others, or Christ) if we accept someone who will lead the faithful away from the Lord?

We also see that the Lord has given this Jezebel opportunity and time to repent, and she has not done so. The consequence of her refusal to turn back to God? Divine punishment, both for her and her followers. We are warned again that we must follow only the Lord, or punishment awaits us. We will be judged by our actions.
Let us each strive to have actions that are good and godly! Let us each strive to not be the Jezebel that leads others astray! Let us strive to not follow such a one! In this way, we can help keep the local church strong.

We see also a promise from the Lord at the end of this passage. The promise is for those who have not submitted to error. The Lord promises to put no other burden on them. Instead, they are simply to hold fast to what they have known, believed, and obeyed to that point. Let us also hold fast to the Word of God, until the Lord comes!

Next week, Lord willing, we will look at the first six verses of chapter three, and the church in Sardis.

The Seven Churches of Asia: Pergamos

2008-09-23T10:09:00.000-07:00

Last week we looked at the church at Smyrna in the eighth to eleventh verses of the second chapter of Revelation. The next church written to is the church in Pergamos.
Revelation 2:12-17
And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

The Positive:
The church in Pergamos held firmly to the name of Christ. Even though they had been persecuted, they refused to deny Christ. Even to the point of martyrdom, they would not give up Christ. Truly, this is something we should emulate! Here in this country, we do not know life-threatening persecution for our faith. Would we remain firm in the same circumstances? It would be hopeful that we would remain true to Christ, regardless of our circumstances!

The Negative:
The church in Pergamos had one particular difficulty though: they tolerated false doctrine. The scriptures state that they tolerated those who held the to the teaching of Balaam and the Nicolaitans. And for this acceptance, they are condemned.

In this time and society, acceptance of any teaching is encouraged by many. Yet we see in scripture that we must be careful to not accept false teaching, false doctrine, or wrong actions. We must remain faithful to the word of God.

Let us always strive to emulate the church in Pergamos in that we always confess Christ! Let us always stand firm regardless of what we encounter in this life! And let us always strive to avoid accepting error, and not fall into the same error that they did.

Next week, Lord willing, we will briefly look at the church in Thyatira.

The Seven Churches of Asia: Smyrna

2008-09-23T10:06:00.000-07:00

Last week we looked at the church at Ephesus in the first seven verses of the second chapter of Revelation. The next church written to is the church in Smyrna.

Revelation 2:8-11
And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

The Positive:
The Holy Spirit, through John, has some excellent things to say about the church in Smyrna. The church had been experiencing persecution and poverty, yet had remained faithful to the Lord. They are also warned that the tribulations they are enduring will continue and increase for a short time longer. Nonetheless, they are encouraged to remain strong in the faith, that they may be given a crown of life.

We learn, then, that the physical things that must be endured are not as important as holding to the Truth. Abiding in Christ is well worth the temporary pain and troubles that can be presented to us on earth. We also learn that the Lord is aware of whatever our present situation is. We do not have a God that is aloof and uncaring, but rather one that knows what we endure, and encourages us through His word along the way.

Twice in this section the Christians at Smyrna are encouraged to “endure to the end.” Once they are told that if they do so, they will receive a crown of life. The second time, they are told that if they do so they will not be hurt by the second death.

Let us follow the example of the church at Smyrna! Let us gladly endure what we must, as Christians, that we may grasp the crown of life! Let us always remain faithful to the Lord, regardless of what things may come to pass in this life. If they, in their imprisonments, poverty, and trials can overcome, then should we not be able to do the same in our life of freedom, wealth, and mild ridicule?