“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).
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Contents

1) The Way of Peace (Jerry Fite)
2) Two Seas
3)  How to Endure Hardship (2 Timothy) (Bryan Gibson)
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The Way of Peace

Jerry Fite

If you are like many today, you are running here and making appointments there, living modern life with a frantic pace. Oh, if we could just stop our bodies from continual motion, rid our minds of all the clutter, and enjoy a moment of restful peace. It is not often today when such peace is enjoyed, and even more rare in this goal-oriented world is such “down” time possible.

Therefore, the thought of peace should be a welcomed diversion for our mind. However, upon examination of the peace revealed in Scripture, we see that it is not paired with an inactive mind. It is a conscientious, scrupulous, and demanding journey. We find it by actively walking in the way of peace.

The spiritual journey begins by knowing God and having peace with Him. Paul declares, “Destruction and misery are in their ways; and the way of peace have they not known: there is no fear of God before their eyes” (Romans 3:16-18). Knowing God and following His way of righteousness is essential in the way of peace.

The way of peace with God is only found in Jesus Christ. The one gospel message to all mankind: Jew and Gentile, provides peaceful reconciliation with God. Peter spoke with specificity of “The word which He sent unto the children of Israel, preaching good tidings of peace by Jesus Christ” (Acts 10:36). Receiving forgiveness of sins by obeying the Gospel, we enjoy a clean conscience, cleansed by the blood of Christ in baptism (Hebrews 9:14, I Peter 3:21). A cleansed conscience through knowing and obeying the Lord, gives us peace within. Jesus is our peace for He alone can bring all mankind together in peace before God (Ephesians 2:14, 17).

Once we enter the way of peace with God through Christ, we cannot grow lax in our walk. We must continually consider others. Because the kingdom of Christ is “righteousness, joy and peace” (Romans 14:17), we cannot allow our actions to cause others to violate their own conscience and forfeit their joy and peace with God. If our action, even if we believe we are free to do such, causes one to do that which is in doubt, then we cease to walk in love. Instead, we should be willing to forgo our liberties in such a context and “follow after things which make for peace, and things whereby we may edify one another” (Romans 14:19).

As we consider our way before God with others, we must strive to do what we can to have peace with our fellow man, while never compromising God’s revealed truth. Paul exhorts Christians, “If it be possible, as much as is in you lieth, be at peace with all men” (Romans 12:18). Regardless of efforts to seek and pursue peace with others, if the other person refuses to follow the same path toward peace, enmity will continue.

Jesus reminds us that sometimes peace will not be possible when such a course compromises the truth of God. Jesus affirms He did not depart from Heaven “…to send peace on the earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword” (Matthew 10:34). Jesus has in mind the spiritual warfare that occurs within families when Christ’s disciples follow Jesus, the true and living way. Persecution from, instead of peace with family members occurs when the way of darkness persists in hearts.

By trusting in God and putting Him first, we do not become distracted with anxiety over life’s necessities, for we know God will provide (cf. Matthew 6:33). In the way of peace, we do not fear death but face it with a mind void of fear. Why? Because we know the crucified and resurrected Christ, and trust in God’s Way (cf. Hebrews 2:13-15). The spiritual way of peace is not “down time,” but it does refresh the inner man so we can keep the fast-paced outer man in check and have a reflective moment in joy and peace with God.

— Via Glad Tidings, Volume XXXI, No. 44, October 24, 2021
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Two Seas

This is a fable of two seas. They are representative of two people, two lives, two outlooks. This fable is taken from real life, for both seas exist today. 

This first sea is altogether beautiful. From the golden strands of its beaches to the green, lush meadows that surround it. This sea lives, for in it are varieties of fish found over many parts of the world. Trees grow nearby and branches shade the water’s edge. It is a tranquil sea, though, at times, the odd storm may sweep upon it. Children dot the beautiful beaches as small ships move about the deep. It laughs in the sunshine and both men and birds desire to build houses near it. The Jordan River flows into this sea with sparkling fresh water from the hills. Every kind of life is happier because it is there. It is the Sea of Galilee.

Farther to the south, another sea is found. Around it nothing grows. No laughter of children, splash of fish, building of houses, or happy people. Life itself is a stranger to this sea. Nothing survives. Dead air hangs heavy above its sullen waters. It is a reject of life. The Jordan River also flows into this sea with sparkling fresh water from the north, but instead of bringing life, these happy waves flow into the grasps of the Dead Sea vaults.

While the Jordan blesses both seas with fresh sparkling water — the difference in the seas makes one life and the other death. Galilee receives the Jordan with thanksgiving and, in turn, allows the sweet water to freely flow on to bring their blessings to others. The Dead Sea receives the fresh flowing tide only to lock them within her walls. The fact that this sea refuses to give to others what was so generously given to her causes her to “die every day.”

Now, just stop and reflect. Think of wife, husband, son, daughter, neighbors, friends and even enemies — and pictured in their basic philosophy will be the mirror of one of these two seas.

That generous hand that is always open always attracts others to it. Happiness dwells within and seems to offer to others the same blessing. The sweet spirit gives sweetness, and the kind heart brings an understanding of life that surpasses knowledge. Like honey to bees — the attraction is always there.

Then think for a moment of the selfish — that miserly soul whom others despise. He receives much, but gives little. He hoards and holds, titles and possesses, but has never acquired that one thing most desirable — life and the wonderful ability to give.

— Author Unknown, Via Viewpoint from the Valley Grove Church Of Christ, December 25, 2022
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How to Endure Hardship (2 Timothy)

Bryan Gibson

“Be watchful in all things, endure afflictions” (2 Timothy 4:5). “You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ” (2 Timothy 2:3).

Hardship for a Christian comes in many forms, and it’s safe to say that Paul, the writer of this letter, experienced nearly every one of them. Let’s go through this letter and identify at least some of the hardships he faced, and then discuss how he endured each one of them.

Hardship #1: Paul had suffered persecution for the gospel’s sake in the past, and he was still suffering when he wrote this letter (1:8, 12; 2:8-9; 3:10-12; 4:14-15).

How did Paul endure this hardship? 1) With the conviction that if anything was worth suffering for, it was the gospel (1:8-11). 2) With the knowledge he was helping others to “obtain the salvation which is in Jesus Christ with eternal glory” (2:8-10). 3) With the confidence that if he endured, he too would receive an eternal reward (1:12; 2:11-12; 4:16-18).

Hardship #2: Paul had been forsaken by some of his own brethren (1:15; 4:10, 16).

How did Paul endure this hardship? 1) By refusing to become bitter (4:16) 2) By not forgetting the ones who did remain faithful—people like Timothy, to whom this letter is addressed; Eunice and Lois, Timothy’s mother and grandmother; Onesiphorus, who was not ashamed of Paul’s chain, and who ministered to him in many ways (1:5, 16-18); and Mark, who was useful to Paul now (4:11), even if not previously (Acts 12:12, 25; 13:13; 15:36-40). 3) By remembering the one Friend on whom he could always depend—“at my first defense no one stood with me…but the Lord stood with me…” (4:16-17).

Hardship #3: Paul had seen the effects of false teaching, and he knew it was about to get even worse (2:16-18; 3:13; 4:3-4).

How did Paul endure this hardship? 1) By warning Timothy to avoid false doctrine; by encouraging him to hold fast to the truth; by instructing him to study diligently and present the truth accurately; and by charging him to preach the truth at any and every opportunity (1:13; 2:14-16; 3:13-17; 4:2-5). 2) By encouraging him to develop more teachers who would do the same (2:2). 3) By not giving up on all who had gone astray, because some might receive correction and “come to their senses” (2:24-26).

Hardship #4: Paul was very near death—“for I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand” (4:6).

How did Paul endure this hardship? 1) By urging his “beloved son” (1:2), Timothy, “to come to me quickly” (4:9). 2) By preparing himself in advance of his death—“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (4:7). 3) By the hope of “immortality” (1:10) he had in Jesus Christ, the hope that the Lord would give him “the crown of righteousness” (4:8), that the Lord would preserve him for “His heavenly kingdom” (4:18).

“Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:1-2).

— Via Plain Words from God’s Word, 2/16/24

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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 Jesus Christ, the Son of God (John 8:24; John 3:18).

3) Repent of sins.  For every accountable person has sinned (Romans 3:23; Romans 3:10), which causes one to be spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1) and separated from God (Isaiah 59:1-2; Romans 6:23). Therefore, repentance of sin is necessary (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).  For whether the sin seems great or small, there will still be the same penalty for either (Matt. 12:36-37; 2 Cor. 5:10) — and even for a lie (Rev. 21:8).

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; 1 Pet. 3:21).  This is the final step that puts one into Christ (Gal. 3:26-27).  For from that baptism, one is then raised as a new creature (2 Cor. 5:17), having all sins forgiven and beginning a new life as a Christian (Rom. 6:3-4). For the one being baptized does so “through faith in the working of God” (Col. 2:12). In other words, believing that God will keep His word and forgive after one submits to these necessary steps. And now as a Christian, we then need to…

6) Continue in the faith by living for the Lord; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Matt. 24:13; Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
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Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501

Sunday: 9 a.m. Bible Classes and 10 a.m. Worship Service.   Congregational Song Service: 5 p.m. for every first Sunday of the month.

Wednesday: 7 p.m. Bible Classes

evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com

https://thomastedwards.com/go/all.htm (This is a link to the older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990.)

“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).
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Contents

1)  Cranky Old Men (Kyle Pope)
2) Sword Tips #36 (Joe R. Price)

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Cranky Old Men

Kyle Pope

In 1993 a movie came out entitled Grumpy Old Men. I never saw the movie, but as a thirty-year-old (at the time) I could maintain the assumption that such a description couldn’t apply to me—I was still young. Now the years have rolled on, and as David said, “I have been young and now I am old” (Psa. 37:25a). Sadly, far too often, as I look in the mirror or through the lens of self-examination, the phrase “grumpy old man” describes me all too well.

I don’t like that! When I was a young preacher, many hours of discouragement came directly from the carelessness of cranky old men. How I pray that I will never be the source of such discouragement to my younger brothers and sisters in Christ! I must recognize, however, that unless I am careful—unless we all are careful that is exactly what we can become.

Why Are Old Men Cranky?

They May not Know Why. If I can look to myself as an example, the answer to this question at times may be “I don’t know!” Have you ever just awoke in the morning in a cranky mood? There is nothing that directly seems to trigger it. Nothing specifically has gone wrong—you just feel irritated at the whole world! That’s not just a problem with old men—sometimes “angry young men” grow into “cranky old men.” As Christians, however, we must never tell ourselves, “that’s just the way I am.” If my disposition is not what it ought to be I need to repent! If I can identify the problem I must change it, improve it, or learn to be content with it (Phil. 4:11-13). If I can’t identify it I must not allow it to take control of my life and discourage those around me. We men especially struggle with this. That is likely why Paul taught, “Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them” (Col. 3:19). I’m sure there are bitter women, but more often we men just let ourselves simmer with a cranky attitude. Solomon wrote, “He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city” (Prov. 16:32).

The Aging of the Body. Health can be a part of this. As the body grows older it is frustrating that things don’t work as they once did. The body aches when it didn’t before. The slightest effort, which the young man could do without a thought, leaves the old man exhausted. There isn’t a cure for this, it is just part of growing older. The wise man described this as when, “the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you say, ‘I have no pleasure in them’” (Eccl. 12:1b). We should note, however, that just because these are “difficult days” that hold less “pleasure in them” does not grant Christians the right to wallow in misery and self-pity. Paul told Titus to teach older men to be “sound in faith, in love, in patience” (Titus 2:2b). I don’t show love and patience if I have a cranky and bitter disposition. Paul told the Thessalonians to “rejoice always” (1 Thess. 5:16). Peter urged all Christians in their faith to “rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory” (1 Pet. 1:8). I do not have “joy inexpressible” when I allow my heart to be dominated by crankiness.

A Changing World. Every generation observes changes in customs, morality, and attitudes with every passing year that are different from what they once were. The preacher of Ecclesiastes taught, “Do not say, ‘Why were the former days better than these?’ For you do not inquire wisely concerning this” (Eccl. 7:10). The reality will always be that some things improve and some things get worse, but change is never easy. This is especially true in technology. About the time I figure out how to use one device it is updated and becomes obsolete. That can be irritating! I don’t learn things as quickly as I once did. In spite of that, if I am not careful I can discourage the young if I make it seem as if “everything new is bad”—“the young are worse than my generation,” or “there is no hope for the future.” As an older man I need to show those younger than me how to “shine as lights” in the “midst of a crooked and perverse generation” (Phil. 2:15). I won’t do that by crankiness or being overly critical.

Not Realizing How They Come Across. Several weeks ago I lost my voice. When it came back, for quite some time my voice continued to be rough and gravelly. During that time we had a home Bible study with the middle, high school, and college age kids. My wife and I joked that with my voice impaired the kids had a harder time knowing when I was joking. Things I said playfully sounded as if I was scolding them. Age can cause the same problems. An older man or woman may say something with the sweetest of intentions, but the voice seasoned by age, or impaired by poor health seems harsher than intended. This calls for consideration on both sides. I need to make sure my tone or manner doesn’t come across in ways that are destructive, but when I hear things that might seem harsh I need to give the other person the benefit of the doubt. Paul taught that love hopes for the best (1 Cor. 13:7), as we act “with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love” (Eph. 4:2).

Grasping for Lost Respect or Influence. As we grow older, younger men step into roles we once held. That’s how it ought to be. In the church Paul told Timothy, “And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Tim. 2:2). As our roles change in the workplace, in the home, or in the church it can easily cause us to feel unappreciated, neglected, or disrespected. If we aren’t careful this can lead us in some very childish ways to try and demand respect, assert influence, or regain some status we perceive to have been lost. That’s part of what happened to Saul. This once great leader of Israel was so resentful and envious of the success of David that it moved him to petty jealousy and sinful efforts to regain respect (1 Samuel 17-31). Sadly, in many cases our respect and influence have not really been lost—we only imagine that they have. Yet, when coarse, selfish, childish, and abrasive actions are taken, that’s when we truly lose the respect of others. Snapping at a waitress in a restaurant, harshly criticizing the actions of a younger brother or sister, or throwing a fit when things aren’t done our way do not motivate respect. They destroy it. The young are commanded to respect those older than they are (Lev. 19:32; 1 Pet. 5:5), but we who are older are also commanded to act in ways that motivate respect. Paul commanded Timothy to teach that “the older men” should “be sober, reverent, temperate” (Titus 2:2a).

What I Must Not Do

When I was a young preacher, some of the discouragements brought on by those I perceived as cranky old men concerned things they believed. In some cases, as the years have gone by, I have come to appreciate (and even agree with) some of the things that so troubled them. The wise man taught, “Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise” (Prov. 22:17). In other cases, what was so important to them proved to be nothing more than a pet opinion, personal preference, or peculiar perspective with no scriptural foundation. The wise man also said, “Words of the wise, spoken quietly, should be heard rather than the shout of a ruler of fools” (Eccl. 9:17).

I must be careful that in matters about which I feel strongly or in instances in which I choose to offer criticism to those younger than me I offer my thoughts “quietly” without anger, aggression, or assuming improper intent on the part of the one to whom I speak. I must make certain that when I choose to speak, I only push God’s word rather than my own opinions and preferences lest my words prove to be nothing more than “the shout of a ruler of fools.”

The wonderful example of Aquila and Priscilla teaches us so much about love and kindness. They did not blast Apollos publicly. They did not assume that he was deliberately avoiding teaching about Christ. “They took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately” (Acts 18:26b). If I must correct or rebuke a brother or sister in Christ, except in the most extreme cases (e.g. 1 Tim. 5:20), I must not do it publicly. Souls can be lost by the thoughtless action of cranky old men like us if we are not careful! As we are so quick to win an argument, young and struggling souls may see our actions as hateful, mean-spirited, and contrary to the cause of Christ. Paul told Timothy, “a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient” (2 Tim. 2:24). While I must ever stand for truth, may God help me to always do so with love, and an encouraging tone, never allowing my own struggle with crankiness to harm a soul created in God’s image.

— via Focus Online, January 3, 2019
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“And take…the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph. 6:17).

Sword Tips #36                        

Joe R. Price

“And they were astonished at His teaching, for His word was with authority” (Luke 4:32).

The authority of the word of Jesus Christ is profoundly superior to the words of any person. The great thinkers of this world pale in comparison to the simple yet powerful message of the word of God.

Jesus taught with the authority of heaven. God speaks to us now through the word of Jesus, His Son (Heb. 1:2). His word brings blessings to every soul who believes it and obeys it.

His word will change your life. It will give you hope. It will save your soul. There is no greater authority or power than that.

Honor Christ’s authority today.

Commit yourself completely to following His word.

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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 Jesus Christ, the Son of God (John 8:24; John 3:18).

3) Repent of sins.  For every accountable person has sinned (Romans 3:23; Romans 3:10), which causes one to be spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1) and separated from God (Isaiah 59:1-2; Romans 6:23). Therefore, repentance of sin is necessary (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).  For whether the sin seems great or small, there will still be the same penalty for either (Matt. 12:36-37; 2 Cor. 5:10) — and even for a lie (Rev. 21:8).

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; 1 Pet. 3:21).  This is the final step that puts one into Christ (Gal. 3:26-27).  For from that baptism, one is then raised as a new creature (2 Cor. 5:17), having all sins forgiven and beginning a new life as a Christian (Rom. 6:3-4). For the one being baptized does so “through faith in the working of God” (Col. 2:12). In other words, believing that God will keep His word and forgive after one submits to these necessary steps. And now as a Christian, we then need to…

6) Continue in the faith by living for the Lord; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Matt. 24:13; Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
——————–

Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501

Sunday: 9 a.m. Bible Classes and 10 a.m. Worship Service.   Congregational Song Service: 5 p.m. for every first Sunday of the month.

Wednesday: 7 p.m. Bible Classes

evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com

https://thomastedwards.com/go/all.htm (This is a link to the older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990.)

“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)  Learning From What God Cannot Do (Jerry Fite)
2) Respecting the Power of God’s Word (Heath Rogers)
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Learning From What God Cannot Do

Jerry Fite

To say God cannot do something seems to contradict the concept of an omnipotent or all-powerful God. Jehovah, in the face of laughing at His promising an old couple that they would have a child, challenges the doubters with, “is anything too hard for Jehovah?” (Genesis 18:14). When the Lord’s own apostles were wondering at their failure to cast out demons, Jesus looked to their “little faith” as the problem and said that if they had faith, even as small as a grain of mustard seed, they could miraculously remove mountains and “nothing shall be impossible unto you” (Matthew 17:20). Their abilities, in this context, their miraculous abilities were tied to God through their faith in the One who has the power to do all wonders. 

While nothing is too hard for Jehovah, even miraculously removing mountains, or casting out demons, there are things the Scriptures point to that are impossible for God to do. These are not contradictions to tear down the truth that God is omnipotent, but instead provide important facts to complete the picture of God, and really strengthen our faith.

While God has the power to do all things, there are things impossible for Him to do for they contradict His holy character. For example, “God cannot lie.” If He could lie, He would potentially contradict His character of always upholding the truth. Lies are the character of the Devil, and form the bleak picture of darkness, which has no place in God’s character: “God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all” (John 8:44-47, I John 1:5).

Because it is impossible for God to lie, we can have confidence in His promises. One of these promises is “eternal life.” Paul writes, “in hope of eternal life, which God who cannot lie promised before times eternal…” (Titus 1:2). The passing of time should not cause us to lose confidence in the proposition that eternal life in Heaven awaits us. Like Paul, we can focus upon God’s character of Truth. God cannot lie, so we continue to hope, knowing that the promise will be fulfilled. God promised Abraham that in Him all the nations of the earth would be blessed. His promise was accompanied by an oath. The Hebrew writer refers to these two things (his promise and oath) as “immutable” and in which “it is impossible for God to lie” (Hebrews 6:18).

Why should we be reminded of God’s promise to bless and multiply Abraham’s seed which found ultimate fulfillment in Christ (Genesis 22:16-18, Galatians 3:15)? So that “we may have a strong encouragement, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us; which we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast…” (Hebrews 6:18-19). 

Also, God “cannot deny Himself” (2 Timothy 2:13). His character is one of faithfulness, and to deny Himself would contradict the truth of His very being. In essence He is telling us that He exists, therefore we should remain faithful to him through life’s difficulties, trials, and hardships. Man can become weak and quit “enduring” with the Lord and even “deny Him.” It is at this moment of doubt that we need to be reminded of what God cannot do and rise to serve. “If we endure, we shall also reign with Him: if we shall deny Him, He will also deny us: if we are faithless, He abideth faithful: for he cannot deny Himself” (2 Timothy 2:12-13). 

Learning what God cannot do, we can know for sure He will remain true to His promises and to His immutable self. This knowledge encourages us to remain faithful, looking forward to eternal life with no doubts.  

— Via Glad Tidings, Volume XXXI, No. 14, April 4, 2021
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Respecting the Power of God’s Word

Heath Rogers

We must respect things that have great power. For example, those who work with electricity learn to be very careful. Electric hazards cause more than 4,000 injuries and more than 300 deaths in the workplace each year. Nearly 800 people die from household electrocutions each year. Those who want to work with or around electricity must have great respect for its power.

As Christians, we must learn to respect the power of God’s word. The spoken word of deity has awesome power. God spoke the physical universe into existence. “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth… Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast” (Ps. 33:6, 8-9). Notice: the natural response to God’s creative power is to “fear” and “stand in awe” of Him.

The spoken words of Jesus had amazing power. The Centurion’s servant was healed at the Lord’s word (Matt. 8:7-13). The physical elements obeyed His voice (Mark 4:38-41). Lazarus rose from his grave at the Lord’s command to “come forth” (John 11:43-44).

Were we living then, we would have marveled along with the rest of the witnesses of this great power. However, we must realize that God’s written word is just as powerful.

The Written Word is Sufficient.

“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 complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). What other book is needed if all Scripture makes us complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work? God’s written word may not answer every possible question we have (Deut. 29:29), but it gives us everything we need. God’s word saves the lost (Rom. 1:16), provides guidance for our lives (Ps. 119:105), and gives us all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3). God’s written word has the power to get the job done.

The sufficiency of the written word is seen in the repeated warnings against adding to or taking away from the Scriptures. “You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you” (Deut. 4:2; c.f. Prov. 30:5-6; Rev. 22:18-19). We must have respect for the sufficiency of the written word.

The Written Word is Relevant.

Some reject the Bible as an outdated book of myths and stories. It may have served a purpose when man was ignorant of the workings of the universe, but we have grown in our knowledge and we need something modern to guide our lives.

The needs of man have not changed. The questions, struggles, and problems of mankind are universal – transcending time and culture. If people would take the time to read the Bible, they would discover that it addresses and offers solutions to problems we are facing today. The Bible may not give the answers people want, but it gives the answers we need.

The Written Word is Punitive.

Not only does the Bible draw lines between right and wrong, but it also states the consequences for doing wrong.

It is possible to violate man’s laws without paying a penalty. We can walk away free if we don’t get caught or convicted. However, God’s law can’t be broken without consequences. It doesn’t matter whether we break the law through ignorance or willful rebellion, there is a price to pay. How do we know this is true? There are immediate consequences to breaking God’s natural laws. Whether we are careless, foolish, or just in the wrong place at the wrong time, we can easily do things that result in injury or death. This is why good parents diligently teach their children about the dangers around them. “Don’t play in the street!” “Don’t pet stray dogs!” “Don’t stick things in electrical outlets!” Nature doesn’t show mercy.

Are we as diligent to warn our children about violating God’s written word? Although they are not immediate, there are severe consequences to breaking God’s moral and righteous laws. Adam and Eve were driven from the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3:24). Nadab and Abihu were consumed by God’s fire (Lev. 10:1-2). Uzza was struck dead for touching the ark (1 Chron. 13:7-10). King Uzziah became a leper for taking on the role of a priest (2 Chron. 26:16-21). The children of Israel perished in the wilderness (1 Cor. 10:1-10). Why? “Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come” (v. 11). These events serve as warnings to us. There are severe consequences to violating God’s written word.

Jesus promised, “He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him – the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day” (John 12:48). Our eternal fate depends on the choices we make regarding God’s written word. We must learn to respect its power.

— Via Articles from the Knollwood church of Christ, December 2023

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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 Jesus Christ, the Son of God (John 8:24; John 3:18).

3) Repent of sins.  For every accountable person has sinned (Romans 3:23; Romans 3:10), which causes one to be spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1) and separated from God (Isaiah 59:1-2; Romans 6:23). Therefore, repentance of sin is necessary (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).  For whether the sin seems great or small, there will still be the same penalty for either (Matt. 12:36-37; 2 Cor. 5:10) — and even for a lie (Rev. 21:8).

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; 1 Pet. 3:21).  This is the final step that puts one into Christ (Gal. 3:26-27).  For from that baptism, one is then raised as a new creature (2 Cor. 5:17), having all sins forgiven and beginning a new life as a Christian (Rom. 6:3-4). For the one being baptized does so “through faith in the working of God” (Col. 2:12). In other words, believing that God will keep His word and forgive after one submits to these necessary steps. And now as a Christian, we then need to…

6) Continue in the faith by living for the Lord; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Matt. 24:13; Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
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Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501

Sunday: 9 a.m. Bible Classes and 10 a.m. Worship Service.   Congregational Song Service: 5 p.m. for every first Sunday of the month.

Wednesday: 7 p.m. Bible Classes

evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com

https://thomastedwards.com/go/all.htm (This is a link to the older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990.)

“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).
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Contents

1)  MEDITATIONS: “The Eyes of the Lord are on the Righteous” (Kyle Pope)
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MEDITATIONS: “The Eyes of the Lord are on the Righteous”

Kyle Pope

Synopsis: As Solomon wrestled with the meaning of life, modern-day disciples sometimes struggle with questions. Let us turn to God’s word for answers.
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Introduction

Have you ever come to a point in your life at which you asked yourself the question, What good does it do?—What’s the point? Persecution can often cause this. It was persecution that led Elijah to cry out to God, “It is enough; now O LORD, take my life” (1 Kings 19:4, NASB). In Peter’s first epistle, as he wrote to brethren “grieved by various trials” (1 Pet. 1:6, NKJV), one can almost hear underlying his words of encouragement these same kinds of questions that seek to make sense of life in Christ. The Holy Spirit, through Peter’s words, offers answers to all who would ever wonder if service in Christ really matters.

The Behavior of the Redeemed

As I study Peter’s first epistle, I can’t help but smile when I notice that, like many of us gospel preachers, Peter says “finally” when he is actually only about halfway through what he intends to say. We can see chapter three, verse eight, as the beginning of his conclusion to this epistle. This summation continues what he has already begun to address—he calls them to proper behavior. If they are truly those who were “redeemed” (1 Pet. 1:18), then they must “be of one mind, having compassion for one another” (1 Pet. 3:8a). Those who have “been born again” (1 Pet. 1:23) must “love as brothers” being “tenderhearted” and “courteous” (1 Pet. 3:8b, NKJV) or, as some manuscripts put it, “humble-minded” (ASV). Their Redeemer, when He “was reviled, did not revile in return” (1 Pet. 2:23), so those who follow Him will not return “evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing” (1 Pet. 3:9a, NKJV). This may be strange behavior by the world’s standards, but not for “sojourners and pilgrims” (1 Pet. 2:11). They will recognize that they “were called to this” because it is through this way of life that they “may inherit a blessing” (1 Pet. 3:9b). It is this promise of blessing that stands behind all of the Christian’s hope.

Whom Does the Lord Hear?

In the face of hardship, disappointment, persecution, and sorrow, it is a hope that one day the child of God may “see good days” that answers the underlying question, Why?—Why keep going? Peter paraphrases Psalm 34:12-16 to answer this question. The psalmist puts it in the form of a question: “who is the man who?” (Ps. 34:12a), but Peter just asserts, “He who would love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking deceit” (1 Pet. 3:10). To see life and “good days,” one must “turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it” (1 Pet. 3:11). These “good days” must not be thought of in a limited sense of deliverance in this life. Sometimes, that may happen, but “sojourners and pilgrims” recognize that their hope rests elsewhere. If comfort and ease in this life indicated Divine approval then we would have to conclude that the ungodly, the sinful, and even those who persecute God’s people, are actually approved by Him. Who are those who truly stand approved before God? Peter and the Psalmist answer, “The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the LORD is against those who do evil” (1 Pet. 3:12; Ps. 34:15-16). The false teaching that an alien sinner can offer the “sinner’s prayer” and by it come into fellowship with God ignores this clear testimony of Scripture. God hears the appeals of His people. Souls must first be among the redeemed so that His ears might be “open to their prayers.”

Baptism Is Necessary for Salvation

Only a few verses later in this same chapter, Peter touches on the point at which one does come into fellowship with God in Christ. He raises it by way of comparison with a point he had made about Noah, who was “saved through water” (1 Pet. 3:20). Peter declares, “corresponding to that, baptism now saves you” (1 Pet. 3:21a, NASB).

Since the Protestant Reformation, many have rejected the idea that baptism has anything to do with salvation or is necessary (in any way) for us to enjoy fellowship with God. This was likely due to false doctrines that arose before the Reformation that distorted the scriptural teaching on baptism. Men were falsely taught that baptism could be a sprinkling or pouring of water. In the New Testament, baptism is always an immersion symbolizing burial (Rom. 6:1-7). Then, just as now, men improperly baptized babies. The New Testament teaches baptism is for those capable of belief (Mark 16:16).

Over Christendom’s long history, baptism has (in some cases) been forced upon people, regardless of whether or not they believed in Jesus. In the New Testament, baptism and faith are both necessary for one to “put on Christ” (Gal. 3:26-27). Peter leaves no doubt that baptism is essential for salvation. Not because it is some meritorious work that earns salvation, but because it is “an appeal to God for a good conscience—through the resurrection of Jesus Christ” (1 Pet. 3:21c, NASB).

Suffering for Doing Good

The baptized believer can live in the assurance that God sees and is ever conscious of his condition. While God sees, hears, and knows all things (Prov. 15:3), in a special sense, His eyes are “on the righteous” and His ears are “open to their prayers” (1 Pet. 3:12). So, what good does it do to serve Christ?—why are believers allowed to suffer hardship and persecution? In some cases doing what is right prevents suffering. Peter asks, “who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good?” (1 Pet. 3:13, NKJV). If we do good, even to the ungodly, sometimes this will spare us from harm, but Peter continues, “But even if you should suffer” (1 Pet. 3:14a).

Remember, our condition in this life is not a guarantee of God’s approval. We may suffer, and actually “suffer for righteousness’ sake” (1 Pet. 3:14b). Is that a curse or a punishment? No. When it happens, actually “you are blessed” (1 Pet. 3:14c). Peter says, “it is better” when and if this should happen “to suffer for doing good than for doing evil” (1 Pet. 3:17). The criminal deserves his punishment. When the relationships of the ungodly are shattered, their behavior may well have merited the consequences brought upon their lives. However, when the Christian does good, and suffers for it, one day all will be vindicated. The persecutors of Christians will one day “be ashamed” (1 Pet. 3:16c), while the Christian who lives with a “good conscience” (1 Pet. 3:16a) can know that he will one day “see good days” (1 Pet. 3:10).

The Suffering of Christ

Where is the proof of this hope?—How can we know in the face of persecution we will “see good days”? Peter tells us the very One who redeemed us offers assurance to us of this hope and blessing. He declares, “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust” (1 Pet. 3:18a). He suffered in the flesh but attained the resurrection, never to die again. His suffering purchased our blessing. He endured this “that He might bring us to God” (1 Pet. 3:18b).

Peter challenges the reader to recognize a different perspective on the flesh and spirit. Jesus was “put to death in the flesh” (1 Pet. 3:18c), but this ultimate demonstration of persecution could not rob Him of the ultimate blessing—He was “made alive in the spirit” (1 Pet. 3:18d, ASV). Christ’s spirit (like our own spirit) lives beyond the death of the flesh.

Christ’s Deity made it such that His spirit was active not only after His death, but before His life on earth. Earlier in the book, Peter told the brethren concerning the prophets that it was the “Spirit of Christ who was in them” (1 Pet. 1:11) who allowed the Old Testament prophets to declare those things that would come about.

It was this same “spirit of Christ” who Peter now explains was working through Noah when “He (i.e., the spirit of Christ) preached to the spirits in prison (i.e., those now held in Hades awaiting judgment)” (1 Pet. 3:19). Jesus didn’t preach in Hades—there is no opportunity for repentance in that realm (cf. Luke 16:19-31). Jesus preached through Noah “in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared” (1 Pet. 3:20b) to the disobedient rebels before the flood.

What does that show us about suffering and the flesh versus the spirit? Jesus’s spirit was alive before and after His suffering. He saved His people “through water” before His life and suffering on earth. Likewise, He saves us “through water” after His life and suffering on earth. This can demonstrate to those who experience hardship in the flesh that it is more important to look at our spiritual condition than the condition of our flesh.

Ready to Give an Answer

What good does it do?—why keep serving Christ? These questions that seem to underlie Peter’s words of encouragement are not abstract, philosophical exercises that no one ever faces. They are real questions which our hearts must confront.

Peter challenges the Christians to whom his first epistle was written to “sanctify the Lord God in your hearts” (1 Pet. 3:15a). He calls them to prepare so that they may “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Pet. 3:15b). Some, instead of “defense,” translate this “answer” (KJV, ASV, NIV). We need to be able to answer religious error. We need to be prepared to explain why we have “hope,” despite life’s conditions. Yet, if we genuinely sanctify God in our hearts, our preparation to give an answer may not just involve questions posed by others, but even the questions that we face within. This preparation can help us through persecution—it can help us hold onto “the hope that is in you with meekness and fear” (1 Pet. 3:15b).

— Via Truth Magazine, Volume 65, No. 1, January 2021

https://truthmagazine.com/kindle/2021/2021-01-jan/00_TM-TOC.htm

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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 Jesus Christ, the Son of God (John 8:24; John 3:18).

3) Repent of sins.  For every accountable person has sinned (Romans 3:23; Romans 3:10), which causes one to be spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1) and separated from God (Isaiah 59:1-2; Romans 6:23). Therefore, repentance of sin is necessary (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).  For whether the sin seems great or small, there will still be the same penalty for either (Matt. 12:36-37; 2 Cor. 5:10) — and even for a lie (Rev. 21:8).

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; 1 Pet. 3:21).  This is the final step that puts one into Christ (Gal. 3:26-27).  For from that baptism, one is then raised as a new creature (2 Cor. 5:17), having all sins forgiven and beginning a new life as a Christian (Rom. 6:3-4). For the one being baptized does so “through faith in the working of God” (Col. 2:12). In other words, believing that God will keep His word and forgive after one submits to these necessary steps. And now as a Christian, we then need to…

6) Continue in the faith by living for the Lord; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Matt. 24:13; Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
——————–

Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA  31501

Sunday: 9 a.m. Bible Classes and 10 a.m. Worship Service.   Congregational Song Service: 5 p.m. for every first Sunday of the month.

Wednesday: 7 p.m. Bible Classes

evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com

https://thomastedwards.com/go/all.htm (This is a link to the older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990.)