Year: 2015 (Page 3 of 4)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB).
——————–

1) Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things (Jerry D. Curry)
2) 21 Reasons Why You Should Be Scripturally Baptized (Kenneth E. Thomas)
3) The Sum of God’s Word (Frank Himmel)
——————–

-1-

Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things

Jerry D. Curry

God’s people have always been called upon to take action. As Joshua made his farewell speech he exhorted Israel, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve” (Joshua 24:15). Haggai exhorted Israel, “Go up to the mountain, and bring wood, and build the house” (Haggai 1:8). Jesus, our ultimate example of a servant, says, “My meat is to do the will of Him Who sent Me” (John 4:34). Many times we are hesitant to accept difficult challenges, consequently, opportunities to render great service to God are lost. God has not always looked to great people to serve in great ways. Be encouraged to accept great challenges as we notice how God has used ordinary people to do extraordinary things.

Moses was asked by God to appear before Pharaoh and demand that he let the people of God leave Egypt. As Moses contemplated this extraordinary challenge he demonstrated his ordinary character as he made the following excuses: “Who am I that I should go unto Pharaoh? What shall I say unto them? But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice. I am not eloquent” (Exodus 3:4). Moses was able to rise above some ordinary traits and successfully meet the extraordinary challenges of confronting Pharaoh, leading Israel out of Egypt and through the wilderness for forty years.

God spoke to Joshua and said, “Moses My servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them” (Joshua 1:2). After wandering with the murmuring nation of Israel for forty years, Joshua is given the extraordinary challenge of leading Israel into the Jordan and across to the promised land. Following Israel’s defeat by Ai, Joshua demonstrated an ordinary lack of trust as he stated, “O Lord God, wherefore hast Thou at all brought this people over Jordan, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us?” (Joshua 7:7). God calms the ordinary fear of Joshua by saying, “Fear not, neither be thou dismayed; take all the people of war with thee, and arise and go up to Ai; see, I have given into thy hand the king of Ai” (Joshua 8:1).

David demonstrated an extraordinary faith as he went out to the battlefield and defeated the giant Goliath with a sling and small stones (See 1 Samuel 17:17-51). He is paid the extraordinary compliment in Acts 13:22 where God says of David, “I have found David, the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart.” Yet, what painfully ordinary traits were exhibited as he committed adultery with Bathsheba and had her husband killed in the heat of battle. Please take time to read II Samuel 11:1-17.

We could write further of 1) Esther, though afraid of death, appeared before the king to ask that Israel be spared (Esther 4:16). 2) Abraham, who left his homeland and later raised the knife to offer his son upon the altar, yet earlier lies about Sarah as he feared for his life (He- brews 11:8, 17-19; Genesis 20:9-13). Or 3) Peter, who walked on water and was with the Lord at Gethsemane, yet later cursed and denied Christ (Matthew 14:27-31; 26:69-75). May we be encouraged to accept great challenges as ordinary people striving to do extraordinary things.

— via The Sunny Hill Bulletin, Vol. 5, No. 8, April 15, 2001
——————–

-2-

21 Reasons Why You Should Be Scripturally Baptized

Kenneth E. Thomas

1. Because God commands it. Acts 10:48

2. To fulfill all righteousness. Matthew 3:15

3. To be a friend of Christ. John 15:14

4. Because you love God. I John 5:3; John 14:15

5. Lest you reject the council of God against yourself. Luke 7:30

6. To COMPLETE the “new birth.” John 3:3-5; Titus 3:5

7. To enter the kingdom. John 3:5

8. For remission of sins. Acts 2:38

9. To receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38

10. In order to be saved. Mark 16:16

11. To wash away your sins. Acts 22:16

12. To get into the death of Jesus where blood was shed. Romans 6:3

13. To be buried with Christ. Romans 6:4

14. To be raised with Christ. Romans 6:4; Colossians. 3:1; 2:12

15. To rise to walk in the newness of life. Romans 6:4

16. To be a child of God by faith. Galatians 3:26-27

17. To get into the body, which is the Church. I Corinthians 12:13; Colossians 1:18

18. To have a good conscience. I Peter 3:21

19. To get INTO Christ. Galatians 3:27

20. Because “baptism doth also now save us.” I Peter 3:21; Mark 16:16

21. To be “reconciled unto God in one body by the cross.” Ephesians 2:13-16

— Via Articles from  La Vista church of Christ
——————–

-3-

The Sum of God’s Word

Frank Himmel

Do you remember math class? We were taught that in multiplication the answer is call the product; in division it is called the quotient; in subtraction it is the remainder; in addition it is the sum.

Psalm 119:160 says, “The sum of Your Word is truth, and every one of Your righteous ordinances is everlasting.” The emphasis is on totality. Everything God says is right. Every one of His ordinances is binding. And the truth about any subject is determined by adding up all He says about it.

The principle of adding together all God’s revelation is vital in Bible study. It is easy to err if one teaches a conclusion before weighing everything the Scripture says on a topic. Consider a few examples:

Some folks act as though Matthew 7:1 says everything there is to be said about judging: “Do not judge so that you will not be judged.” They seem to think this verse prohibits any and all judgments that one might make about another. However, I Corinthians 5:12 requires churches to judge their members with reference to fellowship. Jesus Himself said, “Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment” (John 7:24). The fact is, there are a number of situations in which we must assess one’s character, position, or conduct.

If one reads Jesus’ teaching about divorce only in Mark 10:2-12 or Luke 16:18, he would conclude that divorce is not allowable for any reason. Any remarriage following a divorce would constitute adultery. Matthew’s account however, reveals one exception: divorce for fornication (Matthew 19:9).

When the Philippian jailor asked Paul and Silas what he must do to be saved, they replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31). Is that all there is to it? Many think so. But when the Jews on Pentecost asked Peter the same question, He answered, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins” (Acts 2:38). Further reading in Acts 16 implies that Paul went on to tell the jailor the same thing. Neither Acts 16:31 nor John 3:16 nor any other verse contains all that God says about salvation. The sum of God’s word is truth.

— via Gospel Power, Vol. 15, No. 25, June 22, 2008
——————–

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

1) Hear the gospel, for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30,31).
2) Believe in the deity of Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent of sins (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).
4) Confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21)     
6) Continue in the faith; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
——————–

Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501
Sunday services: 9:00 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 5 PM (worship)
Wednesday: 7 PM (Bible class)
evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/go (older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with articles going back to March 4, 1990)
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/audioser.html (audio sermons)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB).
——————–

Contents:

1) Encounters at Jericho (Mark Mayberry)
2) Preparing for the Storm (Greg Gwin)
——————–

-1-

Encounters at Jericho

Mark Mayberry

Introduction

Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary offers the following description of Jericho: It is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Situated in the wide plain of the Jordan Valley (Deut. 34:1, 3) at the foot of the ascent to the Judean mountains, Jericho lies about 8 miles northwest of the site where the Jordan River flows into the Dead Sea, some 5 miles west of the Jordan.

Since it is approximately 800 feet below sea level, Jericho has a climate that is tropical and at times is very hot. Only a few inches of rainfall are recorded at Jericho each year; but the city is a wonderful oasis, known as “the city of palm trees” (Deut. 34:3) or “the city of palms” (Judg. 3:13). Jericho flourishes with date palms, banana trees, balsams, sycamores, and henna (Song 1:14; Luke 19:4).

There have been three different Jerichos throughout its long history. Old Testament Jericho is identified with the mound of Tell esSultan, a little more than a mile from the village of er-Riha. This village is modern Jericho, located about 17 miles northeast of Jerusalem. New Testament Jericho is identified with the mounds of Tulul Abu el-‘Alayiq, about a mile west of modern Jericho and south of Old Testament Jericho.

By far the most imposing site of the three is Old Testament Jericho, a pear-shaped mound about 400 yards long, north to south, 200 yards wide at the north end, and some 70 yards high. It has been the site of numerous archaeological diggings and is a favorite stop for Holy Land tourists [Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary, s.v. “Jericho”].

Old Testament

The city of Jericho, first mentioned in connection with the conquest of Canaan, symbolizes divine judgment and mercy (Num. 33:50-56; Josh. 6:1-5; Heb. 11:30).

The Faith of Rahab

The faith of Rahab was evident when she protected the spies and pledged her loyalty to the God of Israel (Josh. 2:1-24; 6:17, 22-25). Accordingly, she is praised in the New Testament as an example of obedient faith (Heb. 11:30-31; James 2:24-26).

The Faith of Israel

The faith of Israel was evident as, in obedience to the Lord’s commandment, they marched around the city once a day for six days, and seven times on the seventh day (Josh. 6:2-21; Heb. 11:30-31).

The Failure of Achan

The failure of Achan occurred when, in disobedience to God’s command, he took of the spoils of Jericho, i.e., items that had been placed under ban and should have been given into the treasury of the Lord (Josh. 6:17-19; 7:1). As a result, he brought defeat to the army of Israel (Josh. 7:2-15) and destruction upon his own house (Josh. 7:16-26).

The Folly of Hiel

After the destruction of Jericho, Joshua made all Israel take an oath, saying, “Cursed before the Lord is the man who rises up and builds this city Jericho; with the loss of his firstborn he shall lay its foundation, and with the loss of his youngest son he shall set up its gates” (Josh. 6:26- 27). Centuries later, in the dark days of Ahab’s reign, Hiel the Bethelite rebuilt Jericho, laying its foundations with the loss of his firstborn, and setting up its gates with the loss of his youngest son (1 Kings 16:29-34).

New Testament

The Baptism of Jesus

The baptism of Jesus likely occurred in the vicinity of Jericho (Matt. 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-22; John 1:29-34).

The Temptation of Jesus

Afterwards, our Lord was tempted by the devil in the nearby wilderness of Judea (Matt. 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-13).

The Ministry of Jesus

Herein, we focus upon Jesus’ encounters at Jericho: first, in healing the blind man/men, next, in teaching on the necessity of brotherly love, and finally, in converting a most unlikely prospect.

Giving Sight to the Blind: The Lord’s mercy and might were manifested in the healing of the blind man/men at Jericho (Matt. 20:29-34; Mark 10:46-52; Luke 18:35-43). The blind repeatedly cried out, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” Moved with compassion, Jesus touched their eyes; and immediately they regained their sight and followed Him. Such miraculous power demonstrated that Jesus was from above (Matt. 11:2-6; John 10:19-21).

Teaching Neighborly Responsibility: In the parable of the Good Samaritan, occurring on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho, Jesus makes practical application to the second greatest commandment: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Luke 10:25-37; cf. Deut. 6:4-9; Lev. 19:18). The New Testament repeatedly emphasizes this important principle (Matt. 5:43-48; 22:34-40; Mark 12:28-34; Rom. 13:8-10; Gal. 5:13-15; James 2:8-9).

Seeking and Saving the Lost: The conversion of Zaccheus, chief tax collector in the district, affirms the universality of the gospel, and the necessity of our bearing fruit in keeping with repentance (Luke 19:1-10; cf. 3:7-9; 13:22-30; 1 Cor. 6:9-11).

Conclusion

Recognizing that whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope, let us learn from these examples, emulating the faith of Israel and Rahab, avoiding the failure of Achan and the folly of Hiel (Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:11).

May we also benefit from Jesus’ encounters at Jericho. Recognizing His mercy and might, let us be thankful that He gives sight to the blind (Rev. 3:17-22). Making proper application of His parable of the Good Samaritan, let us “Go and do the same” (Rom. 13:9-10). Following the example of Zaccheus, let us likewise be converted; following the example of our Lord, let us also endeavor to seek and save the lost (Acts 3:19-26).

— Via Truth Magazine, November 24, 2013
——————–

-2-

Preparing for the Storm

Greg Gwin

We’ve seen it many times: the report on the news tells of a big storm approaching.  Predictions are made of wide spread damage and devastation.  Images of people boarding up their homes and evacuating threatened areas flash across the screen.  But, did you notice? The sun is usually shining brightly while all of this is taking place. The skies are wonderfully blue. Why all the fuss? The answer is simple, of course. You can’t wait until the storm hits to make your preparations. So, while the storm is yet hours, even days away; the necessary precautions are being taken.

There’s an important spiritual lesson to be learned from this. Life is a constant cycle of periods of relative calm followed by often violent storms. It is essential that we prepare for these turbulent times, even when it appears for the moment that all is well. If we wait for the storm to hit, it will be too late!  Jeremiah said, “If you have run with footmen and they have tired you out, then how can you compete with horses? If you fall down in a land of peace, how will you do in the thicket of the Jordan?” (12:5). His point is an obvious one. If you can’t stand firm when the going is easy, you’ll never make it when the going gets tough.

Our strength for living comes to us through the Bible. It provides the “power” for our salvation (Rom 1:16), and gives us hope which is a sure “anchor of the soul” even in the raging tempest of life (Heb. 6:19). The question is: are you using it, learning it, so that you can endure the coming storms? Think!

— Via The Beacon, July 7, 2015
——————–

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

1) Hear the gospel, for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30,31).
2) Believe in the deity of Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent of sins (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).
4) Confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21)     
6) Continue in the faith; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
——————–

Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501
Sunday services: 9:00 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 5 PM (worship)
Wednesday: 7 PM (Bible class)
evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/go (older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/audioser.html (audio sermons)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB).
——————–

1) Controlling Our Temper (R.J. Evans)
2) What’s Your Opinion of the Lord Jesus Christ? (Fred McKinney)
3) A Swarm of Gospel “Be’s” (Austin Mobley)
4) On Reading God’s Word (short statement) (Tom Edwards)
——————–

-1-

Controlling Our Temper

R.J. Evans

Brother John Clark once related a story about a woman who told a preacher she had a bad temper, but that it was over in a minute. “So is a shotgun blast, but it blows everything to pieces,” was the preacher’s reply. And far too many of us who are Christians are triggered by the least little incident, frequently losing our temper. When we lose our temper, we usually do and say things in anger which we later regret. “He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly” (Proverbs 14:17).

It has been said that “anger is like rain, which breaks itself upon that whereon it falls.” For example, anger usually culminates in bitter words, insults, the revealing of secrets or in the breaking off of relations between two parties. Of the aforementioned, insults are probably the most frequent cause of anger. Most of us had rather be injured physically than insulted. There is something about an insult that makes us want to repay with a worse insult. How many of us possess the magnanimous spirit of Abraham Lincoln when he was insulted? It is reported that when he was told that one of his cabinet members, Edwin Stanton, called him a fool, he replied, “If Stanton says I am a fool, I had better look into the matter, for he is a wise man.” No doubt that worked much better than if he would have retaliated by losing his temper, setting off a chain reaction with much more bitterness and resentment to follow. Incidentally, after Lincoln was killed, it was Stanton who remarked in subdued tones of respect, “There lies the greatest leader this country has ever known.”

The Bible teaches us the importance of practicing self-control. It is listed as the “fruit of the Spirit” in Galatians 5:22-23, and among what we sometimes refer to as the “seven Christian graces” in II Peter 1:6. Self-control is one of the Christian’s weapons against the world. And practicing self-control involves controlling our temper. We must follow after Christ’s example — “Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously” (I Peter 2:22-23). The person who continually loses his temper is like an undefended city or one in ruins. The wise man Solomon said, “He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls” (Proverbs 25:28). What a sign of weakness when we constantly lose our temper! And it is certainly a poor reflection of Christ in our lives when we “fly off the handle.”

Christians must learn to be calm and serious. James said, “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19). This brings to mind the motto: “Think twice before you speak. Losing your temper, blurting out angry words, and speaking your mind excites strife. “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger” (Proverbs 15:1).

“Angry words! O let them never
From the tongue unbridled slip;
May the heart’s best impulse ever
Check them ere they soil the lip”
(author unknown, first appeared in Sunday School Teacher, 1867).

— Via  Articles from the La Vista church of Christ

Editor’s note: The “D” word in the picture I included above had said “Danger.”  Losing our temper can be a very dangerous thing — and especially concerning our souls.
——————–

-2-

What’s Your Opinion of the Lord Jesus Christ?

Fred McKinney

Pharisees of old, with what would you reproach Jesus? “He ate with sinners and publicans” (Matt. 9:11; Mk. 2:16).

High Priest, Caiaphas, what have you to say of Him? “He is a blasphemer, because he said”: “Hereafter ye shall see the Son of Man sitting on the right hand of power and coming in the clouds of heaven.”

Pontius Pilate, what do you say of Him? “I find no fault in this man” (Lk. 23:4).

Oh Judas Iscariot, have you a charge to hurl? “I have sinned against innocent blood” (Matt. 27:4).

The Centurion at the cross: “Truly, this was the Son of God” (Matt. 27:54).

Demons, servants of Satan, testify: “He is the Son of God” (Lk. 23:47).

John the Baptizer, speak up prophet; what’s your word? “Behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world” (Jn. 1:29).

John, the Apostle, tell us clearly, what say ye? “He is the bright and morning star” (Rev. 22:16).

Simon Peter, Cephas, what think ye of Jesus Christ? “Master, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matt. 16:18).

Thomas, you saw the resurrected Christ, what say ye? “My Lord, and my God” (Jn. 20:28).

Paul, the Apostle: you persecuted Him, but changed your mind; what say ye? “I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus, my Lord” (Phil. 3:7, 8).

Glorious angels in Heaven, what think ye of Christ? “Unto you is born a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Lk. 2:10-11; Ps. 68:17).

And most important, indeed, our Father in Heaven, our Creator; what say Ye?  “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Mk. 1:11; Jn. 12:28).

— Via The Spirit’s Sword, Volume 14, Number 23, July 24, 2011
——————–

-3-

A Swarm of Gospel “Be’s”

Austin Mobley

Have you observed how powerful little words in the Bible are? Take the word “if” for example. Jesus said, “If ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins” (John 8:24). If our mother Eve had been wise regarding what the little three-letter word “not” meant, the old devil would not have deceived her (Gen. 3:4).

The little word “be” is used frequently in the Bible, and the thoughts connected to it contribute to our salvation. Here is a swarm of gospel “be’s.”

Be Wise. “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves” (Matt. 10:16). Thus the Lord warned the twelve as He sent them on their mission.

Be Faithful. “…be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life” (Rev. 2:10). The circumstances in which the beloved apostle John was at the time were not very favorable. He was exiled on the lonely isle of Patmos. The incentive held out was “be faithful — the crown of life.” That was all John needed to deepen his faith.

Be Ready. The Lord says, “Therefore be ye also ready; for in an hour that ye think not, the Son of man cometh” (Matt. 24:44). The Lord could come again at any time. We could pass away and all opportunities to get ready for judgment (John 5:28-29) would be gone.

Be Unmovable. In our present day this admonition is just as pertinent to every member of the body of Christ as when Paul wrote it by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Cor. 15:58).

Be Ye Doers. “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves” (James 1:22). It is not enough to hear the word of God, but those who are blessed put it into practice every day.

Be Baptized. “And now why tarriest thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16). To be baptized into Christ (Gal. 3:27) is to be obedient from the heart to that form of teaching (Rom. 6:3-4, 17-18). One is then delivered from the power of darkness into the kingdom of God’s dear Son (Col. 1:13).

If you have not obeyed the Lord and Master in the primary principles of the gospel, I pray that you will attend to that immediately. If you have obeyed him, Be Faithful, Be Doers, Be Wise, Be Unmovable and you will Be Ready.

— Via The Providence Light, February, 1984
——————–

-4-

On Reading God’s Word

Though it might be that we have read through the entire Bible several times, yet if we cannot remember it all from Genesis to Revelation, then that should help us realize the need we have to keep perusing the Scriptures — and give us the incentive in doing so — in order to continually refresh our minds with God’s word.  For it contains words of life and food for the soul (cf. Jn. 6:63; 8:52; Matt. 4:4; Jn. 4:34).

— Tom
——————–

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

1) Hear the gospel, for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30,31).
2) Believe in the deity of Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent of sins (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).
4) Confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21)     
6) Continue in the faith; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
——————–

Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501
Sunday services: 9:00 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 5 PM (worship)
Wednesday: 7 PM (Bible class)
evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/go (older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/audioser.html (audio sermons)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB).
——————–

Contents:

1) We Can Truly Change (Gary Henry)
2) A Good Attitude (Irvin Himmel)
3) News & Notes
——————–

-1-

We Can Truly Change

Gary Henry

“…that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24).

FEW THINGS ARE MORE UNIVERSAL THAN THE HUMAN DESIRE TO CHANGE FOR THE BETTER. The sheer size of the self-help section in any bookstore is a fair indication of how desperate we are to conquer the problems that beset us and to increase the quality of our lives. Virtually every person would like, in some significant way, to improve the “self?” that he or she presently is.

How ironic it is that, despite our deep desire for change and the lavish attention that publishers pay to our personal improvement, many people still hold to the deterministic idea that real change is not possible for a human being. This viewpoint says we are so conditioned by heredity and environment that we can’t change in any radical way. Whatever we “are,” that is what we’ll always be. And our culture has no shortage of psychologically correct labels to define what we are. Once labeled, a person cannot unlabel himself. The most he can hope for is to keep from externally acting out what the label says he’ll always be on the inside.

Christianity, however, makes a deeper change possible. After listing certain groups who practiced notorious sin, Paul said to the church in Corinth, “And such were some of you” (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). These were people who’d actually changed, and the change was not just behavioral. In his letter to the church in Rome, Paul wrote: “Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:3,4).

What Jesus Christ offers the groaning human soul is not superficial pain relief but radical surgery. The drastic rehabilitation He envisions is certainly not the work of one day. But just because we require more than a quick fix, that doesn’t mean we’re forever locked into our mistakes. “Beware of succumbing to failure as inevitable” (Oswald Chambers).

“Change, indeed, is painful, yet ever needful; and if memory has its force and worth, so also has hope” (Thomas Carlyle).

— Via WordPoints (February 23, 2015)
——————–

-2-

A Good Attitude

Irvin Himmel

The posture of one’s mind makes him what he is. Words and deeds are mere reflections of the heart. It is highly important to develop a good attitude. “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he” (Prov. 23:7). Here are some ways in which it is imperative that one show a good attitude:

Toward the Word of God

God gave us the divine word to guide us. We are not capable of directing our own steps (Jer. 10:23). God’s revelation shows us the way out of darkness into light, out of sin into righteousness, out of gloom into hope, out of failure into success, out of misery into joy, out of the kingdom of Satan into the kingdom of Christ.

When Paul preached the gospel to the Thessalonians long ago, they displayed a good attitude toward the truth. They received the word of God, “not as the word of men, but as it is in the truth, the word of God” (1 Thess. 2:13). God’s word is to be reverenced and obeyed because it is the word of God. To have the right attitude toward God necessitates the right attitude toward His word. This is the disposition to believe and yield to the authority of His will.

Toward Correcting Faults

No matter how terrible a mistake one may make, there is hope if he shows a good attitude. David did not have that kind of attitude immediately after he had committed adultery with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah. For a time, he attempted to conceal his guilt. He wanted to shift the blame. It was not until Nathan the prophet pointed the finger of accusation straight toward David, using the parable of the little ewe lamb, that the proper attitude developed. David humbly admitted his guilt, God put away his sin, and from that time on, David was of a different disposition toward what he had done. If a person has a good attitude toward correcting his faults, he does not become angry with one who lovingly points out his sins, nor does he resent attempts to help him overcome his weaknesses.

Toward Daily Work

Every person is free to choose his occupation. Whether one decides to be a plumber, doctor, lawyer, salesman, farmer, teacher, engineer, policeman, or something else, his mental outlook toward his vocation has strong bearing on success versus failure. Some people complain constantly of their work, the low pay, the horrible conditions under which they labor day by day, and the general misery that they experience. One wonders why they do not change jobs. Is their work really all that bad, or is it a matter of attitude?

Other people have the kind of attitude that makes their daily work a joy. They have been careful to choose the kind of vocation that enables them to do what they really want to do. Their frame of mind contributes to their being successful and feeling a sense of accomplishment. This good attitude toward their chosen field of work enables them to cope with unpleasant situations which may arise.

Toward Solving Problems

Perplexing and distressing developments have a way of surfacing in all human relationships. Problems may arise in the church, in the home, in our work, in school, in the neighborhood, in business transactions, and in numerous other connections. It is a bit unrealistic to expect life on this earth to be free of problems, and it is equally visionary to expect our problems to automatically vanish.

Like the poor, some problems are always with us. But the person who has a good frame of mind toward the solving of his problems, whatever they may be, is to be commended. In many cases, our attitude toward a problem is half the solution. With a good attitude we can approach the problem objectively, view it sensibly, and handle it wisely. Even if the problem is never fully solved, a good attitude will provide the means to forge ahead and not be unduly upset or hindered.

Toward Trials

The times in which we live are trying to our souls. Evil forces are pulling and tugging at us. On every hand there are temptations to sin. Young people who want to do right have an especially difficult task. So many of today’s youth have imbibed the “do as you please” philosophy. Drugs, illicit sex, insistence on one’s rights to gratify his lusts no matter how others may be injured, intoxication, profanity, lying, stealing — these and other evils are increasingly prevalent among young people.

The Bible warns that all who do right will be subjected to fiery trials. Old and young alike may expect pressures and temptations. We must learn to have a good attitude in the face of whatever trials come our way. “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial . . .” (Jas. 1:12, NASB). With the proper attitude toward trials the Christian keeps his faith, prays for strength, rejoices that tribulations empower him to develop patience, and draws comfort from the promises of God.

What is your attitude toward the word of God, toward correcting your faults, toward your daily work, toward solving problems, and toward trials? May each one of us examine self and work to develop an improved attitude in all these vital areas.

— Via Truth Magazine XXII: 30, pp. 488-489, August 3, 1978
——————–

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

1) Hear the gospel, for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30,31).
2) Believe in the deity of Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent of sins (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).
4) Confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21)     
6) Continue in the faith; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
——————–

Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501
Sunday services: 9:00 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 5 PM (worship)
Wednesday: 7 PM (Bible class)
evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/go (older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/audioser.html (audio sermons)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB).
——————–

Contents:

1) Thinking of Jesus (Tom Edwards)
——————–

-1-

Thinking of Jesus

Tom Edwards

Is it enough to believe that Jesus was a good man, a prophet of the true and living God, an excellent teacher of truth, and even a perfectly righteous man who had never sinned?  Though all of this is certainly true about the Lord, does accepting just these characteristics meet the need of John 8:24, in which Jesus warns, “…unless you believe that I am He, you shall die in  your sins”?

In the same chapter, Jesus speaks of having “come from God…that He sent Me” (v. 42), that God is His Father (v. 54); and indicates having an eternal nature, when saying, “before Abraham was born, I am” (v. 58).

How many today accept the fact that Jesus has always existed?  According to the Jehovah Witnesses, Jesus has not always been — because He was created by the Father before the world began.  Though they claim that “Jehovah and his firstborn Son enjoyed close association for billions of years — long before the starry heavens and the earth were created(1),” yet that is far short from an eternity.

Among the various things that Jesus would be called, according to Isaiah 9:6, a couple of those are “Mighty God” and “Eternal Father.”  Jesus, of course, is not the Father or first person of the Godhead; He is the Son.  But this phrase has been said to express the idea that Jesus is the “Father of eternity,” that even eternity owes its existence to Him.

But going back to the Jehovah Witnesses’ perspective, “Jesus is Jehovah’s most precious Son — and for good reason. He is called ‘the firstborn of all creation,’ for he was God’s first creation (Colossians 1:15)” (ibid.).

Though firstborn often indicates “first in order,” is expressing a time-element the only way “firstborn” is used?  From the Scriptures, it is easy to see how it also evolved into a figurative usage expressing a supreme rank.  For during the Mosaical Period, for example, the firstborn received a double portion of his father’s inheritance, thus putting him above his brothers in being entitled to that (Deut. 21:17). And sometimes “firstborn” is used without relation to time, but only to indicate rank, as seen in Isaiah 14:30, where the phrase “the firstborn of the poor” (KJV) is rendered as the “most helpless” (NASB) and the “poorest of the poor” (NIV).  So, again, “firstborn” is metaphorically used to express that which ranks above others; and, in this case, those who would be the most poor.  But notice, too, how it is seen in Psalm 89:27, in which God says of David, “I also shall make him My firstborn, the highest of the kings of the earth.”  In this, we can clearly see the idea of superiority. So in going back to Colossians 1:15, Jesus being “the firstborn of all creation” expresses His preeminence over everyone and all that exists.  Yes, He truly does “have first place in everything” (v. 18).  He is the “King of kings and Lord of lords” (Rev. 19:16).  He has “All authority…in heaven and on earth” (Matt. 28:18); and, therefore, “…is the head over all rule and authority” (Col. 2:10). God the Father “…HAS PUT ALL THINGS IN SUBJECTION UNDER HIS [Jesus’] FEET….”  And the Father Himself is the only exception to that (1 Cor. 15:27,28).

In referring to God as His own Father, Jesus was viewed by others as “making Himself equal with God” (Jn. 5:18), which is one of the reasons for why some sought to stone Him (cf. Jn. 10:31-36).

The apostle John begins His account of the life of Christ by speaking of His preexistence, His divinity, and His role in the creation itself: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.  All things were made through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being” (Jn. 1:1-3).  As Paul also declares, “For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible…all things have been created through Him and for Him” (Col. 1:16).  The Hebrew writer expresses it this way: “And, ‘You, Lord, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the works of your hands; they will perish, but you remain; and they all will become old like a garment, and like a mantle you will roll them up; like a garment they will also be changed. But you are the same, and your years will not come to an end’” (Heb. 1:10-12).

It is also in this same chapter in which God the Father addresses Jesus by calling Him “God”: “But of the Son He says, ‘Your Throne, O God, is forever and ever…’” (v. 8).

Interestingly, even the Tetragrammaton, which is the four consonants that make up the personal name of God, that some translate as “Jehovah” and tell us that it pertains to only the Father, is also used with reference to the Son: “For thus says the LORD of hosts, ‘After glory He has sent me against the nations which plunder you, for he who touches you, touches the apple of His eye. For behold, I will wave My hand over them so that they will be plunder for their slaves. Then you will know that the LORD of hosts has sent Me’” (Zech 2:8,9).  So in this passage, the LORD of hosts is seen having been sent by the LORD of hosts; and “LORD” is from the Tetragrammaton in both places.

Though there are the three distinct persons of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit who make up the one Godhead, yet they are each as much Deity as the other.  As we have considered, the first place where “God” is mentioned in the Bible is Genesis 1:1, in which Moses writes, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”  It has been noted that “God” is from the Hebrew word “Elohim,” which is the plural form of God; and that also corresponds with Genesis 1:26 that shows there was more than One involved in the great work of creation: “Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness…’  God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”  Nowhere do we read of angels being involved in that work, but we do see of Jesus and the Holy Spirit who were.  As we saw earlier, the focus was on Jesus in His role as the Creator (Jn. 1:1-3; Col. 1:16; Heb. 1:10-12), though all three Persons of the Godhead worked together in that.  For concerning also the Holy Spirit, while the earth was still formless and void, He was “moving over the surface of the waters” (Gen. 1:2).

Paul, too, speaks of the preexistence of Jesus, but also shows His willingness to leave His glorious state in heaven to humbly take on a human body, which was quite a sacrifice in itself: “…who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.  Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Phil. 2:5-8).  So Christ had to take on a human body in order that He could make the atoning sacrifice by His death — and He did that for every sinner (Heb. 2:9).

Concerning Jesus being “the Word,” this has been explained in the Jehovah Witnesses’ book to mean that “he spoke for God, no doubt delivering messages and instructions to the Father’s other sons, both spirit and human” (ibid., p. 41). But Jesus did more than speak God’s message, for He also embodied Deity (Col. 2:9), being the “exact representation” of His Father’s nature (Heb 1:3) and, thus, manifesting to the world what God is like (cf. Jn. 14:7-9).  For while on earth, Jesus was human and Deity simultaneously and demonstrated the characteristics of both.

So truly believing in Jesus goes way beyond merely accepting the fact that He was a good man, an excellent teacher, a prophet of God, and One who lived a perfect and righteous life.  For He was and is the eternal, second person of the Godhead, the Creator, the Savior, and the only way to everlasting life (cf. Jn. 14:6).

In many different translations of the New Testament, the word “Christ” is in more than 500 verses. It is the Greek equivalent for the Hebrew “Messiah.”  Only Jesus fulfilled that role. He made the atonement by His own death that truly can blot out sin, and which no other means could ever do — not even all the countless animal sacrifices that were offered from the days of Adam and Eve (cf. Gen. 4:4) throughout all the entire Old Testament Period (cf. Heb. 10:1-14).  As the apostle Peter declares about Jesus in Acts 4:12, “And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved.”  In writing to Timothy, the apostle Paul points out, “For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time” (1 Tim. 2:5,6).

So may we each truly see Jesus, who is one with the Father (Jn. 10:30), for the perfect, eternal Deity that He is; and who is to be honored as much as we honor the Father Himself.  For to fail to do so, results in not honoring God at all (cf. Jn. 5:22,23).

Footnote:

(1) “What Does the Bible Really Teach?” by the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, page 41
——————–

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

1) Hear the gospel, for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30,31).
2) Believe in the deity of Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent of sins (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).
4) Confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21)     
6) Continue in the faith; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
——————–

Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501
Sunday services: 9:00 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 5 PM (worship)
Wednesday: 7 PM (Bible class)
evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/go (older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/audioser.html (audio sermons)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB).
——————–

Contents:

1) Light a Lamp (Dennis Ross)
2) Glory to the Reader or the Writer? (David Diestelkamp)
——————–

-1-

Light a Lamp

Dennis Ross

It is written, “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:13-16). The word translated candle in verse 15 literally means lamp. Candles, as we know them today, were unknown during the days when the early Christians lived. Note the following quotations from the Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible; pgs. 1303, 1304:

“The clay bowl was fashioned first, and the rim was folded over to help contain the oil. A spout was pinched in place at one end, into which the wick would be placed. When the clay dried, the lamp would be fired to a dull brown shade. The wick was generally made of flax, although an old piece of linen cloth was sometimes used. Salt could be added to the wick for a brighter flame, and frequently extra wicks were used. Olive oil provided the commonest form of lamp fuel, and the average lamp could hold enough oil to burn through the night. Despite this, the housewife would have to get up several times to tend the wick and keep her precious lamp lit.” See Proverbs 31:18.

During the days of the early Christians, some lamps bore inscriptions, such as: “The light of the Lord shines to all;” “The Lord is my light,” (or “beautiful light”). Lamps were frequently used in funeral rites, and have been found in burial places. (Cf. The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia)

Some vivid applications can be drawn from the “lamp.”

The Lamp Is Lit! “The clay bowl was fashioned first.” Before our lights can shine, we must become “vessels” for God. And it is God who, through His Word, creates true “vessels unto honor” who can truly carry His light. Thus, it is written, “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). Until one obeys the Gospel of Christ, he remains “unlit.” “For Thou wilt light my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness” (Psalm 18:28).

While many claim to be Christians, God knows those who really are. “Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: The Lord knows those who are His, and, Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity. But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work” (2 Timothy 2:19-21). Have you “prepared” yourself to let God’s true light shine through you?

The Lamp Burns Brightly! “It giveth light unto all that are in the house.” Thus was the light in the upper chamber where the disciples gathered to worship God. “And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread…” (Acts 20:7).

Something else–the lights of the Christians–burned brightly in that upper chamber; and their light illuminated God’s house! Does your light burn brightly in the assembly, or is it habitually dark in the seat you should fill? “These things I write to you, though I hope to come to you shortly; but if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:14,15). What is your attitude toward God’s house? Does your light shine on all who are in His house? Note carefully the following scriptures:

* David said he was happy to go to the house of the Lord (Psalm 122:1).

* Paul told the Galatian Christians to do good to all men–especially the brethren (Galatians 6:10).

* The Hebrew writer encouraged brethren to, by meeting with the saints, provoke one another to “love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24,25).

*  We are also instructed to “hold fast” to this attitude until the end (Hebrews 3:5,6).

How bright does your light shine in God’s house?

Lamps Emit a Sweet Aroma! Today, instead of lamps, we use candles. And some of these have added fragrances that, when burned, emit an aroma that fills the house with a sweet smell. As we burn brightly for the Lord, do we produce an “aroma” that is a “sweet-smelling savor?”

Old Testament sacrifices had an “aroma” about them. One of the first about which we read concerns Noah. “And Noah built an alter unto the Lord; and took of every clean beast, and of every clean fowl, and offered burnt offerings on the alter. And the Lord smelled a sweet savor; …” (Genesis 8:20,21). We should be “living sacrifices” unto God, and He should smell a sweet savor from these living sacrifices. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable (spiritual) service” (Romans 12:1).

Also of interest is what Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 2:15-16: “For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: to the one we are the savor of death unto death; and to the other the savor of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?” Do our lives give off the “fragrances” of death and life? Are we, like our Savior, a “sweet-smelling savor”? It is written: “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; 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 sweet-smelling savor” (Ephesians 5:1-2).

How Long Will the Lamp Remain Lit? Before you read further, please study Matthew 25:1-13. The wise virgins made preparation, and took oil with them. I liken the oil to God’s Word. We need to be constantly “renewing” the oil supply to our lamps; so that we will not run short, as did the foolish virgins. Regarding the exhortation to be living sacrifices, it is written, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:2). Let us endeavor to ensure the brightness of our lamps for as long as we live.

“The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength, they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Psalm 90:10,12). Truly, life is like a vapor (Cf. James 4:14-17). How then are you living your life before God? Are you applying your heart to wisdom? “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is” (Ephesians 5:15-17). Let’s be certain our lamps are always lit!!!

— Via the Monthly Messenger of the Knollwood church of Christ, January 2004
——————–

-2-

Glory to the Reader or the Writer?

David Diestelkamp

The fruit fly has long been the mainstay of biomedical research. An article in the April 3, 2000 Newsweek lauds the scientific breakthrough of reading “almost all of the chemical letters — 165 million of them — that make up its DNA.” It is called “an impressive technical feat in its own right.”

My marvel at the technological accomplishments of man falls far short of my awe for the One who took nothing and made all that man is discovering. The science of man is simply reading what God has written. And we are still in the primary reader stage at that — humans have almost 20 times more DNA than fruit flies!

“I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well” (Psa. 139:14).

— Via The Beacon, June 30, 2015
——————–

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

1) Hear the gospel, for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30,31).
2) Believe in the deity of Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent of sins (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).
4) Confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21)     
6) Continue in the faith; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
——————–

Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501
Sunday services: 9:00 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 5 PM (worship)
Wednesday: 7 PM (Bible class)
evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/go (older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/audioser.html (audio sermons)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB).
——————–

Contents:

1) The Roman Catholic Church (Earl Kimbrough)
2) Escape Without Freedom (Joe R. Price)
3) John 3:5-7 (NASB)
——————–

-1-

The Roman Catholic Church

Earl Kimbrough

The Roman Catholic church  is the most powerful religious organization in the Western World. It claims a world membership of more than 566 million out of a total “Christian” world population of some 985 million.

The church is a force to be reckoned with in national and world politics. Her aim is to rule through political means; and she possesses the machinery for exerting political influence even in those nations  wherein she is in the minority, as in the United States. Because of her great power she is able not only to wield tremendous pressure in advancing her religious views in the political arena but also in holding sway over the millions who are under her domination. Where did this great organization come from? By what authority does it function? How does it carry out its will upon its adherents and in the nations of the world?

1. The Origin of the Roman Catholic Church  

While the Catholic Church claims to be the one true  apostolic church of the New Testament, a careful study of the inspired  writings of the first century reveal  nothing about such an organization in that period. We must look this side of the New Testament to find the beginnings of Catholicism. The first century church in Rome was nothing more than a local congregation of Christians (or perhaps several local congregations existed there) with no claim for oversight of Christians beyond the congregation itself. During the apostasy that followed in the early centuries of the present era, the church at Rome became one of the great patriarchal churches that dominated large segments of the “Christian” world. Due to various circumstances of history (the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the dominance of the Eastern Emperors over the patriarchs of Constantinople, etc.) the patriarchs of Rome came to exert greater power and to claim universal oversight of the whole church. This led to the claim that the Roman patriarch was the head of the church and the vicar of Christ on earth.

Not all people accepted the pope’s assumptions of headship. A great struggle for power arose between the pope and the patriarch of Constantinople. This eventually resulted in a permanent rupture between the Eastern and Western churches. But the pope held his power in the West and the Roman Catholic Church emerged into the world organization it is today.

According to Roman Catholic teaching there can be no Roman Catholic Church without a pope. “The (Roman Catholic) Church is the congregation of all baptized persons united in the same true faith, the same sacrifice, and the same sacraments, under the Holy Father, the Pope” (A Catechism of Christian Doctrine, p. 12). But the first man in history to actually exert power in anything like universal dominion was Gregory the Great (590-604 A.D.). Even this powerful churchman “with shrewd humility” refused to be called Ecumenical Bishop. For nearly 500 years there was  no pope. The idea that the Bishop of Rome should have authority over the whole church was a slow growth in the apostasy. It was bitterly fought at every step and  as never universally accepted. Since there could be no Roman Catholic Church without a pope and there was no pope prior to 590 A.D., it is obvious that the Roman Catholic Church is the product of apostasy and is not the New Testament  church.

2. The Organization of the Roman Catholic Church

The government of the Roman Catholic Church is hierarchal and absolute. A hierarchy is “a ruling body of clergy organized into orders or ranks each subordinate to the one above it.” In the structure of the Roman church the pope stands at the top of the hierarchy. He is believed by Catholics to be “Bishop of Rome, Vicar of Christ, and ‘the visible’ Head of the Roman Catholic Church.” His authority is supreme in all matters of faith and morals as head of  the church. The “College of Cardinals” elects the pope, serve as his advisers, and hold authority over the church between popes. Most of the cardinals reside in Rome. The Roman Curia is the administrative arm of the church, and it is through this bureaucracy the pope governs world-wide Catholicism.

Next in the hierarchy, in descending rank, are archbishops, bishops and priests. The archbishop is spiritual ruler of an archdiocese made up of several dioceses. Bishops rule over dioceses as their territorial jurisdiction. And under the bishops are the parish priests. A parish is the ecclesiastical unit of area committed to one pastor. All members of the Roman Catholic hierarchy are ordained priests. In addition to the regular ranks of the hierarchy, the Roman Catholic clergy includes other priests, monks, deacons, subdeacons, and the whole army of “Orders of Congregations.”  The latter are of two kinds: monastic orders and the religious congregations of priests and various brotherhoods and sisterhoods, such as the Jesuits, Franciscans, etc.

3. The Role Authority of  Catholicism.

The Roman Catholic Church’s faith and doctrine is founded upon “that deposit of faith given to it by Christ and through his apostles, sustained by the Bible and by tradition.” While Catholics make use of certain passages in the Bible in an effort to justify their peculiar doctrines, they make no claim to follow the teaching of the Word of God. In addition to the Bible they have added what they call “Divine Tradition.” They say: “Not all truths revealed for us by God are found in the Bible; some are found only in Divine Tradition. By Divine Tradition is meant the revealed truths taught by Christ and His apostles, which were given to the Church only by word of mouth and not through the Bible, though they were put in writing, principally by the Fathers of the Church. Divine Tradition must be believed as firmly as the Bible because it also contains the word of God” (Ibid., p. 44).

The Bible teaches that the New Testament is the complete and final revelation of God’s will for all time to come. “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, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Tim. 3:16,17). We are forbidden to go beyond the revealed will of Christ and are without God if we do (2 John 9,10). That which Catholics call “Divine Tradition” is nothing more than the doctrines and commandments of men which Jesus said makes our religion vain (Matt. 15:8,9).

The Roman Catholic Church did not begin in the first century; it began in the apostasy that followed the first century. Its organizational structure is completely foreign to what we read about the church of Christ in the first century. It does not even claim to follow the New Testament as its sole authority in religion. Thus, the Roman Catholic Church can in no sense be the church Christ established on Pentecost in A.D. 33.

— Via The Gospel Guide, July 2010, Volume 41, Number 7
——————–

-2-

Escape Without Freedom

Joe R. Price

Two convicted murderers escaped from a maximum security prison in New York state last weekend. It was an elaborate escape that took a much planning and evidently help on the inside. At this writing they have been on the lam for about six days. Although they escaped from prison, one would be hard pressed to say they are free. It appears at the moment they may be in a thickly wooded area trying to evade capture while being hunted by over 500 law enforcement agents (“Search for escaped killers focuses on wooded area near New York prison,” J. Freedom du Lac and Sarah Larimer, The Washington Post).

This serves as a reminder that sin promises freedom and liberty, but in truth it enslaves everyone who chooses to indulge its lustful passions and futile promises. Peter observed this principle and applied it to false prophets whose sinful teaching seduces people to follow error: “While they promise them liberty, they themselves are slaves of corruption; for by whom a person is overcome, by him also he is brought into bondage” (2 Pet. 2:19).

Jesus said, “whoever commits sin is a slave of sin” (Jno. 8:34). Yet, the world views sinful activities as an “escape” from life’s monotonous routine. Yet, sin never delivers what it promises. Drugs and alcohol, pornography, fornication, lewd, irreverent behavior, and gambling are just some of the so-called escapes offered by the world and indulged in by the worldly-minded (Gal. 5:19-21; 1 Jno. 2:15-17; Col. 3:5-10). The momentary escape sin offers invariably makes life harder; not to mention the spiritual ruin it causes (Rom. 6:23). But, that is never mentioned during the sinful escape; afterwards it becomes evident.

Jesus gives real freedom from the prison of sin: “Therefore, if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed” (Jno. 8:36). The release from sin that Christ gives is obtained by obeying His gospel: “But thanks be to God that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness” (Rom. 6:17-18). The gospel is the only successful escape from sin.

— via The Spirit’s Sword, June 14, 2015, Volume 17, Number 49
——————–

-3-

John 3:5-7

Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be amazed that I said to you, ‘You must be born again'” (NASB).
——————–

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

1) Hear the gospel, for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30,31).
2) Believe in the deity of Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent of sins (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).
4) Confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21)     
6) Continue in the faith; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
——————–

Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501
Sunday services: 9:00 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 5 PM (worship)
Wednesday: 7 PM (Bible class)
evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/go (older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/audioser.html (audio sermons)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB).
——————–

1) The Nature of the Word of God (Joe R. Price)
2) That Familiar Ring of Truth (Bill Hall)
3) John 1:1-3, 14 (NASB)
——————–

-1-

The Nature of the Word of God

Joe R. Price

While contemplating God and His word, the psalmist observed, “Righteous are You, O Lord, and upright are Your judgments… Your word is very pure; therefore Your servant loves it” (Psa. 119:137, 140). Since God is righteous, we fully expect His word to also be righteous. We are not disappointed. We marvel at the harmony of God’s word. We trust its power to save souls and transform lives. We are dismayed at those who choose to dishonor God by dishonoring His word.

Many religious people discount the credibility of the Bible and discredit the Scriptures as the only authoritative, binding standard for faith and practice. They appeal to “church tradition,” to “new revelation” or to “personal testimony” while rejecting the Bible as the very word of God. The apostles of Jesus preached the “word of God” and not the “word of men” (1 Ths. 2:13). The Spirit of God gave the apostles the very words to speak and write (Matt. 10:19-20; 1 Cor. 14:37). To relegate the Bible to human origin either displays a lack of knowledge or a willful rejection of the word of God (2 Tim. 3:16).

Others, wanting to deflect the validity of the apostles’ teachings, say there is a big difference between the words of Jesus and the words of His apostles. We hear the uninformed say things like, “Jesus didn’t say it, just Paul (Peter, John, etc.)”. Yet, Jesus told His apostles, “He who receives whomever I send receives Me; and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me” (Jno. 13:20). Jesus sent His apostles into the world to preach His gospel (Mk. 16:15-20). The apostles spoke and then wrote “the commandments of the Lord” (1 Cor. 14:37). We cannot minimize and reject the apostles’ words without also minimizing and rejecting Jesus.

The apostle Paul said, “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed” (Gal. 1:8-9). This declarative statement calls on us to preach the same gospel the apostles preached.

The teaching of Christ’s apostles and prophets about the nature of God’s word strengthens our faith and revives our love for His truth. They assure us that God’s “divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue” (2 Pet. 1:3).

Every teaching that contradicts Christ’s first century apostles and prophets indicts the purity of God and His word. Here is what they taught about the nature of the word of God.

All truth. The apostles of Christ were guided by the Holy Spirit into all truth: “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come” (Jno. 16:13). This is most reassuring since we are sanctified by truth (Jno. 17:17). If we only have some truth then we can only have some sanctification. But, God’s word “is truth,” and “all truth” was given to the apostles. We have all of God’s word through the apostles. We have no need for direct, personal messages from God. God has already given us “all truth” to follow. The Bible is enough.

Fully adequate. The Scriptures, because they are inspired by God, are “profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). To “be complete” means to be adequate, filled up, sufficient. The Scriptures are adequate to supply us for “every good work” of faith, without any additional revelation (Eph. 2:10). They are our pattern for doing God’s will. The Bible is enough.

Incorruptible. The words of men fall by the wayside and are cast into the dustbin of history. But the word of God is living and powerful, vibrant to convict of sin and to convert sinners (Heb. 4:12). It is enduring, never fading away: “having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever” (1 Pet. 1:23). When people say God’s word is no longer relevant in modern culture they expose their unwilling heart to accept and live by the living word of God. There have been and always will be different cultures on the earth, yet the incorruptible word of God applies to people of every culture (Mk. 16:15). Some say men have corrupted truth and we need the truth restored. No, men have fallen away from the truth; the truth has not fallen away (1 Tim. 4:1). The Bible is enough.

Once for all delivered. The gospel is not repeatedly delivered from heaven to earth throughout the ages. The faith was fully delivered to mankind by the first century apostles and prophets of Christ — “…once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3). Jesus Christ died a single time (“once”) as a sacrifice for sin (Heb. 7:27; 9:28; 10:10). Once was enough. Likewise, “the faith” was delivered “once” (a single time). The Bible is enough.

Full and final authority. The apostles’ teaching carries the full weight of heaven’s authority. When we accept the apostles’ teaching we are accepting Christ because He sent them into the world with His word (Jno. 13:20; Mk. 16:15; Acts 2:42). The writings of the apostles of Christ “are the commandments of the Lord” (1 Cor. 14:37). God speaks to us today “in His Son” by the words of His apostles (Heb. 1:1-2). Their word has binding authority over us (Col. 3:17). The Bible is enough.

Understandable. Amazingly, by reading what the apostles wrote we can understand what they knew about the will of God! “…how that by revelation He made known to me the mystery (as I have briefly written already, by which, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)…” (Eph. 3:3-4). It is false to say the Bible is not understandable (2 Pet. 3:16-18). We do not need a new revelation to understand the first century revelation. We need to read and learn it. The Bible is enough.

— Via The Spirit’s Sword, November 9, 2014, Volume 17, Number 24
——————–

-2-

That Familiar Ring of Truth

Bill Hall

The preacher’s topic: “The Conversion of Saul.” But why that topic? Aren’t most of us familiar with that? Shouldn’t the preacher choose something new and more challenging? Why preach what is familiar?

1. It confirms convictions we have formed through the years. Most of us have strong beliefs concerning what a sinner needs to do to be saved, what constitutes the pattern set by the apostles for each local church, what the Lord wants of us on a daily basis, and on many other issues. When we hear sermons confirming these convictions, it builds our confidence that we are indeed doing the Lord’s will and strengthens our hope of eternal life.

2. It conforms our teaching to the example of the apostles. Peter wrote that he was reminding his readers of certain things, that he would continue to do so, and that he would see to it that they would continue to “have a reminder of these things after my decease” (2 Peter 1:12-15). Peter knew that Christians need to hear the truth — familiar truth — again and again.

3. It builds convictions in those who are young and those who are new in the faith. There are reasons why we who have been Christians for many years are familiar with these scriptures. It is because of the preaching we have heard since our youth. Today’s young people and newer converts need this same opportunity.

4. It thrills listeners to hear again that which has brought joy to them in the past. A sports fan views a rerun of an exciting game his team has won. He knows exactly the moment when the running back scoots through the defense and scores a touchdown. He knows when that moment is near, and he can’t wait to see it again. It never gets old to him. So it is when we love the scriptures. We rejoice to hear the message. It never grows old. We anticipate certain scriptures and points that are about to be presented. We never tire of the old, old story.

Catherine Hankey said it this way:

I love to tell the story,
For those who know it best
Seem hungering and thirsting
To hear it like the rest;
And when, in scenes of glory,
I sing the new, new song,
Twill be the old, old story
That I have loved so long.

Our purpose is not “to tell or to hear some new thing,” as seems to be the trend. Our purpose is to preach truth. If we are bored with that message, something is wrong with us spiritually. If we need to apologize anytime we preach it, something is wrong with our audience. The ring of truth! The familiar ring of truth! Preach it, Brother! We thank God for the joy of hearing it again and again.

— Via The Beacon, June 2, 2015
——————–

John 1:1-3, 14

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.  All things came into being through Him… And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth” (NASB).
——————–

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

1) Hear the gospel, for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30,31).
2) Believe in the deity of Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent of sins (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).
4) Confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21)     
6) Continue in the faith; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
——————–

Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501
Sunday services: 9:00 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 5 PM (worship)
Wednesday: 7 PM (Bible class)
evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/go (older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/audioser.html (audio sermons)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB).
——————–

Contents:

1) Witchcraft and Wizardry (R.J. Evans)
2) It Needs No Change (Greg Gwin)
3) Patience (Mike Johnson)
4) Do You Understand? Will You Obey? (selected)
5) And the Dust Went Boom (Bryan Matthew Dockens)
——————–

-1-

Witchcraft and Wizardry

R.J. Evans

In the United States alone an estimated 10 million people are convinced that their future is written in the stars.  Horoscopes are published in over 1,200 newspapers daily across this country.  Occult books have become best sellers.  Back in the ’60s when TV shows such as “Bewitched” were introduced, people started looking upon witchcraft in a favorable light.  The explosion has continued, especially with the Harry Potter books and movies.  There are an estimated 60,000 presently claiming to be witches in  America.  Twenty five years ago, many things of this nature were laughed at; today they are taken seriously.

Fortune tellers, diviners, wizards, sorcerers, witches, and mediums can all be classified under “witchcraft” (“sorcery” in N.T.). Deuteronomy 18:9-14 lists various evil means of attempting to tell the future, cast spells, consult the dead, etc.  Witchcraft is strongly condemned in both the Old and New Testaments (Ex. 22:18; Deut. 18:9-14; Isa. 44:25; 8:19-22; Gal. 5:19-21; Acts 8:14- 25;  13:4-12; 19:18-19).  Under the Law of Moses, a witch or sorceress was to be put to death–“You shall not permit a sorceress to live” (Ex. 22:18).

God has always revealed His will to man throughout all the years.  In the Old Testament it was by and through His prophets (Deut. 18:20-22; Ezek. 3:4).  Today He speaks to us through His Son, via  His inspired Word (Matt. 17:5; Lk. 10:22; Acts 3:19-23; Heb. 1:1-4).  Those who practice witchcraft exalt themselves in such a manner as to claim for themselves powers and attributes of deity.  They claim such powers as the power to bless or curse, the power to tell the future, and the power to do wonders and miracles.  Witchcraft could not save the Israelites (Isa. 47:10-15).  In fact, according to Isaiah 46:8-11, they were told that only God knew what was in the future.  Thus, we can understand why God refers to the evil practice of witchcraft as “abominations” (Deut. 18:9, 12).

Everything that the God of Heaven has done and has said is good and genuine.  But with Satan it is just the opposite, for he is an evil counterfeiter.  God has ministers, but so does Satan (2 Cor. 11:13-15).  God has His angels, but so does Satan (2 Cor. 11:14).  God has worked miracles, and Satan has his lying wonders (2 Thes. 2:9).

Divine miracles were to confirm the Word (Mk. 16:17- 21).  The Word has been confirmed, therefore, miracles have ceased (1 Cor. 13).  Hence, if today’s fortune tellers, witches and wizards have any powers, they are of the devil, and certainly not of God (2 Thes. 2:3-12).  Always remember that Satan is in the lying and deceiving business, for that is what he is–a liar and a deceiver.  Jesus said that when the devil “speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it” (Jn. 8:44).  (See also 2 Cor. 11:13-15; Rev. 12:9.)

Satan’s forces are at work today, and it’s no surprise that we see evidence of his lying wonders all about us (2 Thes. 2; Rev. 16:13-14; Eph. 6:12).  However, we must not be deceived by the deceptions of the devil, but rather recognize them and their source.  Put your trust, confidence and faith in God and His Word, not in the devil’s witchcraft and wizardry.

“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”  (Isa. 5:20)

— Via the bulletin for the Southside church of Christ, 2005
——————–

-2-

It Needs No Change

Greg Gwin

The men who wrote the Constitution of the United States have long been praised for their wisdom and foresight. The words they penned have served as the basis for the laws of this land for over 200 years, and have needed relatively few changes or additions. This is indeed remarkable when we view the governments and laws of most other nations in a constant state of change.

Far more amazing than this, is the law of Christ. Written nearly 2000 years ago, it continues today to provide us with “all things that pertain unto life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3). It is a “perfect law of liberty” (James 1:25). No change has ever been, or ever will be needed in it. Its own pages contain warnings to those who would attempt to alter its commands (Galatians 1:8,9; 2 John 9,10; Revelation 22:18,19). Let us learn to appreciate the beauty and perfection of God’s word, and strive to live and worship according to its precepts.
——————–

-3-

Patience

Mike Johnson

The term “patience” occurs frequently in the Bible.  Patience is a difficult lesson to learn in the age that we live in, yet, it is a trait that Christians must have.  The church at Ephesus, for example, was commended for their patience (Rev. 2:2-3).  Hebrews 12:1 says that Christians are to “run with patience” the race that is set before them;  II Peter 1:6 says that patience must be added to the Christian’s faith.

What is patience?  Patience might simply be called “enduring under trials or tribulations.”  Thayer, in his Greek Lexicon (p. 644), says that in the New Testament it is, “…the characteristic of a man who is unswerved  from his deliberate purpose and his loyalty to faith and piety by even the greatest trials and sufferings.”

Patience is very similar to “longsuffering,” but a distinction between the two words can be made.  Patience generally refers to an enduring with respect to situations or circumstances.  Longsuffering, on the other hand, is more of an endurance, or the quality of self-restraint, with respect to people.  Patience involves difficult circumstances; longsuffering involves difficult people.  If a person is longsuffering, for example, towards another, he will not retaliate when provoked.  Also, a person facing trials and tribulations will patiently continue to serve God.

Patience comes by the trying of our faith (Jas. 1:3) and by tribulation (Rom. 5:3-5).

— Via Biblelist, February 20, 2015
——————–

-4-

Do You Understand? Will You Obey?

Mark Twain, an unbeliever, said about the Bible, “It’s not what I don’t understand about it that bothers me — it’s what I do understand that is the problem!” Although he apparently never did anything about those fears, his observation was absolutely accurate.

Someone else observed: “You may not understand all you read in the Bible, but you can obey what you do understand.” That statement is true, too.

What we’re saying here is that the Bible, while difficult to understand in a few places, really has a very simple story to tell. It teaches us about God in a down-to-earth, easy to digest sort of way. Its commands are explained so that a person with little or no formal education can still comprehend and comply. Simply put, you can know and obey the will of God.  The only remaining question is: Will you do it?

— Selected (Via The Beacon, June 9, 2015)
——————–

-5-

And the Dust Went Boom

Bryan Matthew Dockens

More than all else, the subject undermining atheism is origins.  Removing God from their worldview, unbelievers are left with a laughably inadequate explanation for how the universe and its vast contents came into being.

Whereas the faithful believe that “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1), the disbelieving insist: In the beginning was dust and the dust went boom.

Besides the obvious inability to explain how order arose from chaos, which is totally unknown in observable science, the principal failure of the Big Bang theorist is to account for where all the cosmic dust that supposedly exploded came from.

They assign to mere matter the divine quality of eternal self-existence.  The Christian has no problem ascribing to God Almighty such obvious deification; it is simple and fair to perceive a single ancient consciousness as the source of all other existence.  In contrast, it is utterly absurd to regard mindless matter as self-originating, that non-sentient stuff brought itself into being.

“The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God’” (Psalm 53:1).

— Via Biblelist, April 5, 2015
——————–

Luke 24:25-27

“And He said to them, ‘O foolish men and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary for the Christ to suffer these things and to enter into His glory?’ Then beginning with Moses and with all the prophets, He explained to them the things concerning Himself in all the Scriptures” (NASB).
——————–

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

1) Hear the gospel, for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30,31).
2) Believe in the deity of Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent of sins (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).
4) Confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21)     
6) Continue in the faith; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
——————–

Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501
Sunday services: 9:00 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 5 PM (worship)
Wednesday: 7 PM (Bible class)
evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/go (older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/audioser.html (audio sermons)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB).
——————–

Contents:

1) Worldliness (Gary Henry)
2) Necessary Implications (Ronny E. Hinds)
3) Did You Know?… (Roger Shouse)
——————–

-1-

Worldliness

Gary Henry

“Now these are the ones sown among thorns; they are the ones who hear the word, and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful” (Mark 4:18,19).

WORLDLINESS IS THE SIN OF BEING SO WEDDED TO THIS WORLD THAT WE PAY TOO LITTLE ATTENTION TO THE WORLD TO COME. It means being preoccupied with temporal matters to such an extent that spiritual concerns are crowded out of our thinking. To fellow Christians, Paul wrote, “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2). This is not easy to do, given the strong pull that this world can have on our hearts. If we’re not careful, worldliness will “choke” God’s word and cause it to be “unfruitful” as far as we are concerned.

When some people think of worldliness they think of sins which violate the tradition of conservative social values, particularly those of the Victorian era. When preachers inveigh against worldliness, for example, they often have in mind things like drinking, gambling, and the wearing of immodest clothing. But there is more to worldliness than this. Certainly any outward action which violates the principles of godliness and purity is sinful, and we’re in a dangerous position if we think we’re so much more enlightened than our grandparents that we don’t have to be concerned about such things. But worldliness is a problem of the heart. It afflicts all who are moved primarily by worldly motives, perhaps even the preacher who takes a condescending attitude toward “sinners.” Despite outward appearances, the drunkard and the prostitute may be closer to the kingdom of heaven than some others. In truth, their hearts may not be tied as tightly to this world as those of their more “respectable” contemporaries!

In the parable of the rich fool, God said to a certain prosperous man, no doubt a good fellow in many ways and one whose life might even be called admirable, “Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?” (Luke 12:20). And Jesus concluded this worldly man’s story by saying, “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God” (Luke 12:21).

“Worldliness is excluding God from our lives and, therefore, consciously or unconsciously accepting the values of a man-centered society” (Erwin W. Lutzer).

— via WordPoints, June 6, 2015
——————–

-2-

Necessary Implications

Ronny E. Hinds

All the Bible teaches or authorizes for us to be and do is said either explicitly or implicitly. Explicit means, “fully and clearly expressed; leaving nothing merely implied.” Implicit means, “implied, rather than expressly stated.” A related word to implicit is implication. It means, “something implied or suggested as naturally to be inferred or understood.”

In interpreting the Bible, people have always had difficulties with implications because they are not something spoken directly. They require some additional thinking on our part. Implications require us to consider the facts and understand the necessary conclusions/implications those facts require. The two words of major importance in that last sentence are “require” and “necessary.” I am not talking about any inference or thought we might generally or casually infer, but what God has specifically implied. There is a vast difference between those two ideas. God’s implications are bound upon us because God has placed them in His Word. We are not, I repeat, we are not dealing with human wisdom/reasoning/ideas, but with God’s implications.

It is said by some brethren that implications are valid and binding on Christians no further than “they” perceive them to be so. To do otherwise, they say, is to cause faith to stand on human wisdom. I beg to differ! Actually, they have it backwards! Limiting Bible instructions to human perceptions is to allow human wisdom to rule!!

Consider this example of Jesus’ verbal interaction with the Sadducees. In reading Matthew 22:23-33, Jesus answers the Sadducees’ question about a future resurrection by telling them “Ye do err” (KJV); or, the NIV says, “You are in error.” Clearly, Jesus says their thinking was wrong. Why? Because they had failed to understand the implication of Exodus 3:6 as God speaks of Himself being the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the “present tense” — at that moment — although they had been dead for many years when Exodus 3:6 was spoken. So, Jesus argues, how could they reject the spirit’s immortality (as the Sadducees believed)? Clearly, Jesus held the Sadducees accountable for not recognizing (perceiving) the implication of Exodus 3:6.  Consider another verbal exchange Jesus has with some of John’s disciples (Matthew 11:2-6). Jesus is asked the question, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” Note the question could be easily answered with a “yes” or “no”; but that is not how He answers it. Instead, Jesus says, “Go and tell John the things which you hear and see….” Then He refers to the various miracles He was performing along with His preaching the gospel. The question is not answered explicitly, but implicitly with the miracles He performed and the words He spoke — all “necessarily implying” that He was indeed “the Coming One.” Obviously, Jesus expected both John and his disciples to understand this.

Here is another example of necessary implication in which the Scripture itself draws the implication for us. Read Ephesians 4:8-10. Verse 8 quotes Psalm 68:18 which is a prophetic reference to Jesus’ ascension. Then verse 9 comments on it saying “Now this ‘He ascended’ — what does it mean but that He also first descended into the lower parts of the earth?”  Before Jesus could ascend He had to descend (from heaven to earth and death/burial), although that is not explicitly stated. Note the phrase “what does it mean” identifies the implication.

Let me suggest three things that are important to keep in mind about necessary implications. (1) They must be necessary, inescapable, logical conclusions, drawn from the facts given. (2) The speaker or writer creates the necessary conclusion(s) by the facts given. Not just any inference “we” may conclude is right. (3) This reasoning (necessary implications) is not just some special kind of reasoning reserved for the Bible. It is something we do in everyday communication. If I told you to trim the trees in my backyard I “necessarily imply” you will need a saw, etc., to trim the trees. If I asked you to bake a cake my words “necessarily imply” you must have the ingredients and knowledge of how to do so. This is not rocket science; it is everyday communication.  Long ago it was said, “The language of the Bible is the language of men; therefore, the same rules we use to understand any other book should be used to understand the Bible.”

The point of all this is to scripturally affirm, implicit teaching is just as authoritative as explicit!!

— Via the Monthly Messenger of the Knollwood church of Christ, Beavercreek, Ohio, for June 2015
——————–

-3-

Did You Know?…

That the apostles never used food, games or social activities to draw a crowd so they could preach to them?

Yet in many churches today, even some calling themselves “Church of Christ,” the social programs are so extensive that a social director or a “youth minister” must be hired to oversee the social planning.

Although schools existed in the first century, and the apostle Paul even taught in one for 2 years (Acts 19:9,10), no churches ever supported them financially?

Yet in many churches today, even some calling themselves “Church of Christ,” the financial supporting of “Christian schools” or “Colleges” is a regular part of the budget.

That the apostle Paul illustrated many of his epistles with analogies from sporting events (1 Cor. 9:24,25). Yet no church sponsored or had sporting teams?

Yet in many churches today, even some calling themselves “Church of Christ,” the sporting activities are so much a part of the work that full scale gyms have been built.

If these things mentioned above were not a part of the early church and we do not find them in the Bible, WHY are churches doing them today?  And who gave them the RIGHT to do it? These things ought not to be!  “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Col. 3:17).

— by Roger Shouse (via The Beacon, May 12, 2015)
——————–

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

1) Hear the gospel, for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30,31).
2) Believe in the deity of Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent of sins (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).
4) Confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21)     
6) Continue in the faith; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
——————–

Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501
Sunday services: 9:00 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 5 PM (worship)
Wednesday: 7 PM (Bible class)
evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/go (older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/audioser.html (audio sermons)