Author: Tom Edwards (Page 3 of 48)

The Gospel Observer

May 12, 2024 / Tom Edwards

“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) He Got Up and Followed Him (Doy Moyer)
2) The Cure for Our Souls (Bill Fairchild, Jr.)
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He Got Up and Followed Him

Doy Moyer

Think about this for a moment. Jesus passed by “Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting in the tax booth, and He said to him, ‘Follow Me!’ And he got up and followed Him” (Mark 2:14). What an impression Jesus must have already made on Levi (Matthew) to cause him to get up and follow like this! Why would anyone do this?

Jesus was careful with his choices. He knew what He wanted and who could serve Him well, so telling someone to follow Him was no little matter. But why Matthew? Why would He choose a tax collector whose reputation was that of a swindler or a traitor? This must have been a shocking choice given all the other options He would have had before Him. Yet there is Jesus telling Levi to follow Him, and Levi got up and did it.

This must have taken a strong commitment on the part of Levi. To get up immediately and follow was risky. We see no evidence of hesitation on his part. He got up and followed Jesus, willing to pay the price and deal with the consequences. Why would he do this? Why would anyone do this? While we do not have all the reasons spelled out in the text, we can gather at least this much:

1. Levi would have seen the relative value of what he was leaving for what he was gaining. He knew it was worth the price he had to pay. Do we see the same? Compare what we give up with what we gain in Christ. Paul wrote, “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal” (II Corinthians 4:17-18).

2. Levi would have recognized his need for what Jesus was giving. He had to come to grips with the fact that he was a sinner in need of repentance and forgiveness. Yet only Jesus offered this. Jesus shows this very point in what happens next in the text (Mark 2:15-17).

Jesus was sitting and eating with “many tax collectors and sinners,” along with His disciples. The scribes and Pharisees wondered, “Why is He eating with tax collectors and sinners?” It made no sense to them. If Jesus was the Son of God, how can he associate with the sinful and unclean? No Messiah would do this! Yet this is where the problem lies. What kind of Messiah and Savior do we want? What do we need?

Jesus’ response here was on point: “It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners” (Mark 2:17). This struck hard against the scribes and Pharisees. They thought they were righteous; and because of this, they did not see the need for what Jesus was offering. They already had what they thought they needed. Why would they need Jesus?

Again, Levi would have followed Jesus because he saw what Jesus was offering as needed. If Levi saw himself as righteous, he likely would not have followed. If we see ourselves as already righteous, in need of nothing, then we will not follow either. We need to see where we stand before God to know why we need what Jesus gives.

Following Jesus, then, starts with recognizing who Jesus is, what He offers, and what we are in relation to Him. If we see ourselves as good enough, we will not follow, and this seems to be the problem that we sometimes encounter. People in the world see themselves as good enough. They don’t need what Jesus offers, they think. Why would they need to follow Jesus?

We follow Jesus not because we think of ourselves as righteous, but because we realize we are sinners who are sick and in need of the Great Physician. We need to keep a proper perspective lest we find ourselves like the Laodiceans in Revelation 3:17: “For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.”

Seeing ourselves for what we are as sinners is necessary to follow Jesus. He says, “Follow Me.” In these words, Jesus presents a crossroads in our decision-making. To deny Jesus here is to say that we don’t need Him, that we are good enough on our own. Such pride will destroy us.

Jesus came to call sinners to repentance. Will we, like Levi, get up and follow Jesus? Or will we be like the scribes and Pharisees who saw themselves as righteous already and thereby denied Jesus? This is where discipleship begins.

— Via Articles from the La Vista church of Christ, September 12, 2023
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The Cure for Our Souls

Bill Fairchild, Jr.

“Is there no balm in Gilead, is there no physician there? Why then is there no recovery for the health of the daughter of my people?” (Jeremiah 8:22, NKJV).

In every generation, diseases and illnesses of every sort are threatening our well-being and in some cases our lives. It was not so long ago that Polio was a serious illness for so many. Now in our time, cancers of every sort, HIV, and Hepatitis C have become our modern nemeses!

Each of these diseases serves to challenge the medical community and research institutions at alarming costs in the effort to find a cure.

Found in the heart of the Old Testament, the weeping prophet Jeremiah has seen with his own eyes the sickness and stubbornness of his people. He also understood that because of their rebellion against the God of heaven and His will, his people could not be healed by the “balm of Gilead.”

Gilead stood on the eastern side of the Jordan River. There would be trading caravans that traveled through this area from the east, moving south in the direction of Egypt. One of the products they brought with them to sell was an aromatic substance used for healing, called balm. In time, then, the term “balm of Gilead” became a phrase associated with “cures” and “healing.”

Jeremiah asks a very poignant question comprised of two parts, “Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there?” It is this type of question, asked centuries ago, that even now echoes through time and resonates with us today. It speaks to mankind of our own shared human experience of pain, brokenness, and longing for healing. It points us to the “balm of Gilead,” a symbol of God’s provision for spiritual healing.

The “balm of Gilead” was a real, tangible substance, a resin derived from a tree native to the region of Gilead. It was known for its healing properties, used to soothe and heal physical wounds. But in the context of Jeremiah’s lament, the balm of Gilead takes on a deeper, spiritual significance. It becomes a metaphor for God’s healing, a symbol of His ability to soothe our spiritual wounds and restore our broken souls.

In the same way, mankind is lost in sin and in need of a Savior. God’s love for us is demonstrated in the great sacrifice of His “only begotten Son!” It is as real as the balm of Gilead, as tangible as the resin from the tree; and it is by His grace and mercy that forgiveness of sins, the opportunity to be at peace with God and be adopted into His spiritual family can be obtained.

The “balm” God offers is found in the person of Jesus Christ, the Great Physician, who came to heal the broken-hearted and bind up their wounds – yours and mine! And the healing that He provides is not something to be taken lightly. It is not some sort of a superficial band-aid for the heart and soul of man, but rather it is a cleansing that reaches to the very depths of our being.

It is deep and lasting. It touches our wounds with His love, soothes our pain with His grace, and restores our souls with His truth. It is a healing that transforms us, that makes us new creatures in Christ, which brings us the joy and peace of the salvation He alone provides. And it is to be understood that the “balm” found in Jesus requires our choice and participation. We must choose to come to Him and surrender our will to His!

This choice is not always easy. It requires humility, courage, and faith. It requires us to let go of our pride, our fear, and our self-reliance. It requires us to trust in Jesus, to rely on the strength, comfort, and guidance that will never fail us, and to rest in His love. He alone can heal us of all our sins!

— Via Articles from the Knollwood church of Christ, May 2024

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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.)

The Gospel Observer

May 5, 2024 / Tom Edwards

Contents

1) Learning From the Temptations of Jesus (Al Diestelkamp)
2) “Commits a Trespass Against the Lord” (Heath Rogers)
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Learning From the Temptations of Jesus

Al Diestelkamp

Three of the four gospel accounts refer to Jesus being led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Mark’s gospel gives a very brief summary of this event, making it clear that this took place immediately after Jesus’ baptism when the voice from heaven declared, “You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Mk. 1:11-12). Mark makes no mention of Jesus’ forty-day fast or any of the specific temptations—only that He “was tempted by Satan, and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered to Him” (vs.13). The accounts by Matthew (4:1-11) and Luke (4:1-13) reveal three of Satan’s enticements near the end of this ordeal, as well as Jesus’ responses to His adversary.

We should not think that the three specific temptations recorded constituted the totality of Satan’s attacks during those forty days, nor should we think that Jesus was free from temptations after this. Satan merely left Him “until an opportune time” (Lk. 4:13). From the book of Hebrews we learn that, as a man, He “was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin” (Heb. 4:15).

Though the apostle John did not include this event in his account of the life of Jesus, many sermons have been preached noting that the three temptations in the wilderness seem to correspond well with John’s descriptions of “all that is of the world.” He identifies three worldly desires we all face: “The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (1 Jn. 2:15-17). The thought is that every sin begins as a temptation to yield to one or more of these three human desires in a way not authorized by God.

It’s understandable, that at the end of a forty-day fast, using one’s ability to turn stones into bread would be tempting. Under other circumstances this might not have been sinful, but performing this miracle was not how Jesus was to prove that He was the Son of God. In response, Jesus quoted Moses who reminded Israel how God had humbled them by allowing them to hunger in order to teach them that “man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Deut. 8:3).

One thing we can learn from this temptation is that Satan is devious enough to use a natural human desire to tempt us to do evil. He will try to convince us that because the desire is legitimate, we have a right to satisfy it anyway we can. We learn from Jesus’ response that we should listen to the word of God instead of being directed solely by our fleshly desires. In the event of hunger, God’s word teaches us to work in order to satisfy this lust (Eph. 4:28).

Hunger is not the only natural fleshly desire that Satan will tempt us to satisfy illegitimately. Sexual desire is one of his most powerful enticements, and he has convinced much of humanity that they have “a right” to satisfy it as they please. God’s word teaches us that “Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge” (Heb. 13:4).

Luke’s account then has Satan taking Jesus upon a high mountain to see “all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time” (4:5). Matthew described this mountain as “exceedingly high” (4:8). There Satan offers Jesus what Satan thought would be irresistible: “If You will worship before me, all will be Yours” (Lk. 4:7). It had to be a glorious sight; but, resisting the lust of the eyes, Jesus preached God’s word to Satan: “It is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve’” (Deut. 6:13; 10:13).

Satan isn’t likely to use the lust of our eyes to promise world domination, but he will put before our eyes whatever appeals to us if only we will bow to him. We would do well to remember that when Achan “saw a beautiful Babylonian garment, two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold,” he was led to coveting and taking what was accursed (Josh. 7:21).

Following the order of temptations given in Luke’s account, Satan’s final effort to trip Jesus up involved taking Him to a high place of the temple and challenging Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here” (4:9). Satan even resorted to quoting Scripture promising God’s protection (Psa. 91:11-12). But Jesus recognized that Satan was trying to entice Him to test whether God would acknowledge His Son by saving Him from such a fall. Jesus’ response: “It has been said, ‘You shall not tempt the Lord your God’” (Deut. 6:16).

We need to be aware that Satan has “his ministers” who portray themselves “as ministers of righteousness” (2 Cor. 11:15) who will even quote from the Bible in order to teach what the Scriptures do not teach. They may be in pulpits or theological seminaries, twisting not only the apostle Paul’s epistles, “in which are some things hard to understand,” but also “the rest of the Scriptures” (2 Pet 3:16).

Perhaps the most significant thing we should understand from Satan’s attempt to entice Jesus to sin is that the Son of God was not Satan’s ultimate target. Had he succeeded, Satan would have accomplished his main mission—the inescapable bondage to sin of all mankind, resulting in our “everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord” (2 Thess.1:9).

— Via Think on These Things, April-May-June, 2024, Volume 55, No. 2
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“Commits a Trespass Against the Lord”

Heath Rogers

In a sermon two weeks ago, we studied David’s statement from Psalm 51:4 – “Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Your sight…” I made the comment that David was aware that he had sinned against Uriah, Bathsheba, his servants, and the entire nation. However, all this vanished away as he considered the enormity of his guilt before God. A good lesson needs to be learned from the man after God’s own heart.

All our sin, regardless of who is hurt by our actions, is ultimately committed against God Himself.

Joseph responded correctly to the sexual advances of his master’s wife: “There is no one greater in this house than I, nor has he kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” (Gen. 39:9). Young Joseph understood the sin of adultery is ultimately a sin against God because it violates His law.

These two men believed that any sin was ultimately a sin against God. What does God say about this?

Monday night, brother McKibben led us in a study of Abraham lying to Abimelech in Genesis 20:1-14. I noticed something God told Abimelech in verse 6. “Yes, I know that you did this in the integrity of your heart. For I also withheld you from sinning against Me; therefore I did not let you touch her” (emphasis mine – HR). Long before Joseph or David lived, God had established that the sin of adultery is a sin against the Lord Himself.

Leviticus chapter 6 offers more light on this subject. In giving instructions regarding offerings and restitution, the Lord said: “If a person sins and commits a trespass against the Lord by lying to his neighbor about what was delivered to him for safekeeping, or about a pledge, or about a robbery, or if he has extorted from his neighbor, or if he has found what was lost and lies concerning it, and swears falsely – in any one of these things that a man may do in which he sins” (Lev. 6:2-3, emphasis mine – HR). All sins we commit against others are first and foremost sins against God.

Denominational writer R.C. Sproul is noted for these excellent comments regarding sin:

Sin is cosmic treason. Sin is treason against a perfectly pure Sovereign. It is an act of supreme ingratitude toward One to whom we owe everything, to the One who has given us life itself. Have you ever considered the deeper implications of the slightest sin, of the most minute peccadillo? What are we saying to our Creator when we disobey Him at the slightest point? We are saying no to the righteousness of God. We are saying, “God, Your law is not good. My judgment is better than Yours. Your authority does not apply to me. I am above and beyond Your jurisdiction. I have the right to do what I want to do, not what You command me to do.”

The slightest sin is an act of defiance against cosmic authority. It is a revolutionary act, a rebellious act where we are setting ourselves in opposition to the One to whom we owe everything. It is an insult to His holiness…(R.C. Sproul, The Holiness of God, 151-152).

— via Articles from the Knollwood church or Christ, October 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

The Gospel Observer

April 28, 2024 / Tom Edwards

Contents

1) Gleanings from a Walk on a Country Road (Tom Edwards)
2) Called to Be Like Jesus (Bryan Gibson)
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Gleanings from a Walk on a Country Road

Tom Edwards

NOTE: The following article (with the exception of some slight editing) was written back in early November 2003. Joe and Blanche Thompson had flown me up from Louisiana to their home in Pennsylvania because 86-year-old Joe was in very poor health and nearing death and wanted me to do his funeral, which I was honored to do. Joe was the kind of guy that easily made you feel like his best friend.

While the others were away, and just Joe and I were in his home, and he in a hospital bed in their living room, I did my funeral sermon for him so he could hear it. A few weeks later in December, Joe passed away, for which again they flew me back up.

So perhaps that gives a little more of the emotional setting for the following article of the comfort we can have in God.

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While staying with the Thompsons up in Cochranville, Pennsylvania, for about a week recently, after my morning Bible studies, I would often then walk about 5 miles down a country road, where I could also spend that time in prayer, in praise, and in meditation upon God and spiritual things. Though this is good for the body and the mind, it is even more beneficial for one’s spiritual soul.

God’s handiwork is often a delight to me, a reminder of the reality of His existence, and physical blessings to be thankful for. To see the rolling and elongated hills, where cows and horses grazed on their grassy slopes; to behold the immense sky with its varietal shapes of clouds drifting by and the v-shaped patterns of geese, honking their way across the blue; to hear and watch the gurgling brook; to see the wind making tall grass undulate like endless waves of the sea; and to observe the towering clumps of woodlands in the distance and those that were near and overshadowing the road and forming “tunnels” for the pedestrian or those in vehicles to pass under, all evoked thoughts of God, the Creator. For how can we not think of the Lord when we see His various wonders abounding everywhere? (cf. Rom. 1:19-20.)

God’s reality is no less real than that of His creation. And actually, His existence is even “more real,” in the sense that He never changes nor wears out as creation does. Therefore, compared to the “durability” of God, creation itself seems to be (in a manner of speaking) gauzy, shadowy, so temporal, a fading reality that will vanish with the wearing down of time. But God, and His spiritual realm of heaven, will never become even one second older, nor diminish in quality to the slightest degree. Instead, God and heaven are eternally “new.” The radiance of heaven will never wane. Its brilliance will never become dulled. There will be no rusting, no tarnishing, no decaying, nor no perishing in that perfect place called heaven where nothing grows old, wears away, nor weakens. Corresponding to this, the Hebrew writer states in Hebrews 1:10-12: “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.'” And as he says elsewhere, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Heb. 13:8).

God’s “years” do not come to an end; but ours do — the physical part of us, that is. It is a “going the way of all the earth,” as David (1 Kings 2:2), as well as Joshua (Josh. 23:14), refers to it.

As I continued on my morning walk, taking in the sights, I soon entered a small cemetery at the corner of Faggs Manor Road and 926, with an interest in finding its oldest grave. Thinking that the first person interred in that burial ground had probably wanted to be laid to rest under a large, shady tree, I walked to what appeared to be just that: the oldest tree in the cemetery. Though there were many tombstones that had been so weathered with the corroding years of time that their inscriptions were no longer legible or only partly so, yet I found one rather large slab that was clearly readable. It lay flat and long, covering the grave site; rather than being an upright headstone. Its inscription said:

“Here lyeth the body of
Jane the relict [widow] of
James Creswell who departed
this life the 17 of August, 1749.
Aged about 85 years.”

That means that this woman was born around 1664. Below this inscription, it then read as follows:

“Death thou hast conquer’d me.
I by thy dart am slain.
But Christ hath conquer’d thee
And I shall rise again.”

How true that is. Because Jesus died, was buried, and arose from the grave, we, too, can have hope in a better resurrection (Heb. 11:35). One for which we will be changed “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet….” When “the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed” (1 Cor. 15:51-53). And it makes no difference in what year we have been laid to rest. The important thing, however, is that we are ready to meet God so that it will be a “better” resurrection. For all shall be raised from the dead and exist forever; but only those who belong to the Lord will receive, as Clarence Johnson refers to it, “the quality life.” This is what Jesus came to give, as He Himself states in John 10:10, “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” And the Lord also states of this great universal resurrection in John 5:28-29, in which to those who are the saved it will be a “resurrection of life”; but to those who are the lost, it will be a “resurrection of judgment.”

Christ conquered death by His own death and resurrection (Heb. 2:14-15). Going along with this, Paul states to the Corinthians: “But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep. For since by a man came death, by a man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive” (1 Cor. 15:20-22). Jesus truly is “the resurrection and the life” (Jn. 11:25); and He continues in this verse by saying, “he who believes in Me will live even if he dies.”

The inscription on the tombstone also reminded me of the words of the apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:55-57: “O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Yes, the Christian knows that not even death can separate him or her from the love of God (cf. Rom. 8:35-39). Therefore, the child of God need “…not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul…” (Matt. 10:28); for they cannot separate one from God’s goodness and care. Ultimately, the faithful Christian will triumph even in death and arrive in a place more blissful than ever could be imagined.

Christ can take the “sting” out of death. For in Jesus, death leads to Paradise and heaven, rather than to Tartarus and hell. But whether we die with that “sting” or not is a choice that only the individual can make. God has shown His great desire toward the salvation of all by giving His Son Jesus to die for every sinner (Jn. 3:16; 1 Jn. 4:9-10; Rom. 5:6-10), but we must avail ourselves of the power in Christ’s atonement by humbly submitting to the gospel plan of salvation (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38; Rom. 6:3,4; Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10).

Yes, it was a good walk I had that morning; and as I spoke to God through prayer, He also “spoke” to me in these various ways: through His creation and through His words of truth that are found in the Scriptures and can instill within each of us the faith we need, along with hope, comfort, and numerous other spiritual blessings. So let us, therefore, take the time to listen to God and to lovingly respond to His gracious call, so that our walk may always be with Him in our hearts, having His word to lead our way, and our final destination being in heaven itself.

NOTE: All Scripture is from the New American Standard Bible (1995 Edition)

— Via Gospel Observer, November 9, 2003

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Called to Be Like Jesus

Bryan Gibson

“He who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk just as He walked” (1 John 2:6).

“For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you follow His steps” (1 Peter 2:21).

“Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).

“For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you” (John 13:15).

“For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son…” (Romans 8:29).

“And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us…” (Ephesians 5:2).

“Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another” (John 13:34).

“Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5).

“By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren” (1 John 3:16).

— Via Plain Words from God’s Word, April 21, 2024

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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

The Gospel Observer

April 21, 2024 / Tom Edwards

Contents

1) What Happened to My Zeal? (Bryan Gibson)
2) Jealousy in the Heart (Michael Baker)
3) Sword Tips #17 (Joe R. Price)
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What Happened to My Zeal

Bryan Gibson

We’ve all seen it happen—people on fire for the Lord one minute, only in the next to become very weak or possibly even fall away. It sure would help to know why this happens, for two reasons: to keep it from happening to us (if it hasn’t already), and to help others avoid the same fate.

For answers, let’s turn to 2 Corinthians 8-9. Paul was encouraging various churches to help relieve needy Christians in Jerusalem (Romans 15:25-26; 1 Corinthians 16:1-4). Some had already given liberally and willingly (2 Corinthians 8:1-5), and here Paul urges the church at Corinth to do the same. Because these two chapters speak so often of zeal or diligence, let’s see what we can find to help us better understand how some people’s zeal can wane, or even disappear.

Their zeal, or diligence may be more style than substance, more talk than action. That was the very thing Paul didn’t want to happen in Corinth. These brethren were eager to help, had even promised to do so (8:10-11; 9:1-5), but it was time now to “complete the doing of it” (8:11), to “show…the proof of your love” (8:24). Zeal is not just what you’re eager to do, or promise to do; it’s about what you actually get done.

Their zeal, or diligence, may be more of the self-serving type. For these people, it’s not about bringing glory to the Lord (8:19; 9:13); it’s about bringing glory (or maybe happiness) to themselves. The churches of Macedonia were praised for their zeal, for giving so willingly and liberally (8:1-5), but they did so because “they first gave themselves to the Lord” (8:5); and they did that because the Lord had given Himself for them (8:1, 9). Could it be that the zealous person who fell away was in it more for himself than for the Lord?

Their zeal, or diligence, may not be well-rounded. Look carefully at what Paul said to the church at Corinth: “But as you abound in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us—see that you abound in this grace also” (8:7). His desire was that they show the same zeal in giving they had shown in these other areas. We’ve all seen Christians who were all fired up for various aspects of service, only to fade very quickly. A more well-rounded zeal may just be the antidote for that.

Their zeal, or diligence, may be mostly out of compulsion (“because I have to”). These brethren in Corinth needed to give, but notice the approach Paul uses in various passages: “I speak not by commandment, but I am testing the sincerity of your love…” (8:8); “that it may be ready as a matter of generosity and not as a grudging obligation” (9:5); “not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver” (9:7). When we can move beyond the “because I have to” stage to the “freely willing” stage (8:3), our zeal will remain strong.

Their zeal may have waned or died because they didn’t realize how much good God had done through them. To make sure that wasn’t the case with these Christians, Paul wrote, “For the ministry of this service is not only fully supplying the needs of the saints, but is also overflowing through many thanksgivings to God. Because of the proof given by this ministry, they will glorify God for your obedience to your confession of the gospel of Christ and for the liberality of your contribution to them and to all, while they also, by prayer on your behalf, yearn for you because of the surpassing grace of God in you” (9:12-14). Please don’t grow weary—diligent service in the Lord’s kingdom accomplishes more good than we can sometimes imagine.

“And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises” (Hebrews 6:11-12).

— Via Plain Words from God’s Word, April 8, 2024

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Jealousy in the Heart

Michael Baker

Jealousy is an emotion that can easily affect anyone. Jealousy can be defined as the desire for something that someone else has. While we may not typically think of it in this way, jealousy is a very serious emotion that can take control of us. Yet some folks may not believe jealousy is all that serious. Let’s look at a time where jealousy was not dealt with and it manifested turmoil for those involved.

Genesis 37 shows us that jealousy begins to root itself in our hearts. Jacob loved his son Joseph more than any of his other sons. He did not hide his favoritism, but rather broadcasted it by making Joseph a coat of many colors. Genesis 37:4 reveals that the brothers took note of Jacob’s adoration for Joseph over them. Feelings of jealousy may not cause damage at first. But once it is allowed to fester, it produces hatred and envy, which is why it cannot be permitted in our hearts. How do you feel when you think about your friend’s income, possessions, or relationships? We must be honest with ourselves if we do feel jealous of others, because if we’re not, it will cause more damage later on.

Jealousy doesn’t just lead us to feel displeased within ourselves. It ruins our relationships. When jealousy entered the hearts of Joseph’s brothers, it led to the point that they could not speak to him peacefully. As Joseph receives dreams from God they not only mock him, but they “hated him even more” Genesis 37:8. When we begin to feel jealous of someone else, our relationship begins to change immediately. Family relationships are not immune to jealousy either. If brothers turned on one another here, it surely can happen today. So, let us see that nothing good comes from allowing jealousy to mature.

Like many other emotions, if allowed to grow they will be seen both inwardly and outwardly. Jealousy once it grows to maturity will only lead to bad decisions in the dark side of envy and hatred. One day Joseph approaches his brothers in a field and they immediately plan to kill him, Genesis 37:20. However, they do not kill Joseph but instead they cast him into a pit, before eventually selling him into slavery. Jealousy spares no expense to fulfill its desires. It can be manifested in our own lives. When it becomes our motivation, we may go to great lengths to satisfy our feelings. People murder others over possessions and love. But are there any actions that could really satisfy the feelings brought about by jealousy? The only emotions one feels after acting upon jealousy is hatred and sorrow.

Our actions committed upon the basis of jealousy will only hurt ourselves and those around us. Reuben tore his clothes in mourning, for he blamed himself that Joseph was sold into captivity, Genesis 37:29-30. Jacob was deceived by his sons when they told him that a beast had killed Joseph. Jacob said he would mourn the loss of his favorite child until the day of his death, Genesis 37:35. When we allow jealousy to manifest in action, we hurt those who we did not intend to.

It is hard to avoid acting on our jealous feelings. But those who live in jealousy will not enter the kingdom of God, Gal. 5:20-21. How can we deal with jealousy? We can overcome jealousy by being grateful for our current status. We have never been promised anything in this life and to think we are entitled to anything in this life is wrong. We must rid our hearts of jealousy and fill them with gratitude for what we do have so that we may enter the kingdom of God.

— Via Glad Tidings, July 7, 2019

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“And take…the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph. 6:17).

Sword Tips #17

Joe R. Price

“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).

Being a Christian means making tough, consistent decisions to refuse and reject the devil’s enticements to sin against God. We may think being a Christian comes without sacrifice, as if there is no price to pay for following Jesus. This is not true. The devil will overwhelm you unless you “submit to God” in everything. Count the cost, and pay the price to be right with God. Effective resistance against the devil occurs as you completely surrender yourself to God’s will. The devil will flee from you when you obey God.

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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

The Gospel Observer

April 14, 2024 / Tom Edwards

Contents

1) The Dimensions of DNA (Tom Edwards)
2) Thinking More of DNA (Tom Edwards)
3) Harsh Words (Doy Moyer)
——————–

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The Dimensions of DNA

Tom Edwards

Recently, I was very impressed by the following statement:

It has been estimated that if all of the DNA in an adult human were placed end-to-end, it would reach to the Sun and back (186 million miles) 400 times. (Lesson 3 “The Existence of God — Design”; Apologetics Press, https://apologeticspress.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/hsc0103.pdf).

Another source had put that number of trips of DNA to the Sun and back at 600 times, while another did so at 300 — but even the shorter distances are still astronomical and amazing!

If you wonder how this can be so, when thinking of cells as being so microscopic, read on.

What are the dimensions of DNA? You might find this truly amazing if you do not already know — and even still amazing if you already do know. For how can it ever be anything but amazing!

Though DNA is said to be only about 2 nanometers in diameter (which is just two-billionths of a meter or two ten-millionths (0.0000002) of a centimeter, yet it has a length when stretched out of about 2 meters! So, in other words, its length is about 1 billion times longer than its diameter.

And even putting the DNA slightly shorter at 6 feet (as some do) will result in a total distance of 914,400,000 times longer than its diameter!

Yet, the nucleus in which DNA is stored is said to be only about 5.5 to 6 microns in diameter. Six microns is the equivalent of 6 millionths of a meter, or six ten-thousandths (0.0006) of a centimeter. So DNA, which has been tightly coiled and packed in the nucleus, has been likened to “packing about 24 miles of very thin, double-stranded string into a tennis ball.”

In thinking of this, I am reminded of what David declares to God in Psalm 139:13-16:

For You formed my inward parts;
You wove me in my mother’s womb.
I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Wonderful are Your works,
And my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from You,
When I was made in secret,
And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth;
Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;
And in Your book were all written
The days that were ordained for me,
When as yet there was not one of them. (NASB)

So the next time you think about your DNA, imagine all of it being stretched out and placed from end to end, and making 400 trips from you to the Sun and back! For DNA is an awesome part of you!

DNA is just one of the many intricate and intelligent designs which makes our lives possible. Try making a list of all the other things, too, that you are made of that is necessary for your very existence — such as a brain, a heart, at least one kidney, a liver, blood, a circulatory system, a respiratory system, etc. How vitally important they each are! Not having even one of these would be fatal. But how would a source that is non-intelligent know of the need for these things and also develop them, along with everything else that is necessary for our existence?

How can one not believe in an Intelligent Designer when considering all of the facts that reality reveals!

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Thinking More of DNA

Tom Edwards

In doing Google searches, you can easily run into different figures as to the number of cells in the human body. NOVA online, on “Cracking the CODE of LIFE,” put the total number of all kinds of cells at “about 100 trillion.” Lesson 3 in “The Existence of God–Design,” which I had cited in the previous article, concerning the 400 round-trips DNA (if stretched out and placed end to end) could make to the Sun, also gave that same number. For it states: “A body is composed of over 250 different kinds of cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, nerve cells, etc.) totaling approximately 100 trillion cells in an average adult.”

But even if the total number of cells were much lower, DNA would still be an amazing part of us, and its length when stretched out and placed end to end could still make numerous round trips to the sun. For consider the following chart:

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-3-

Harsh Words

Doy Moyer

Somewhere along the line, it seems our culture has been convinced that insulting people is the way to win others to their way of thinking. Harsh words that disparage intelligence coupled with character-destroying insinuations have become embedded in our arguments and disagreements. This is the way of the world, a path lacking grace and mercy and which can only lead to further division and hatred.

In leading up to the point that we need to take on the mind of Christ, the apostle Paul argued, “Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose” (Phil 2:1-2, NASU). Notice the terms: encouragement, consolation, love, fellowship, affection, compassion, joy, united. These are produced by the Spirit. How could this be accomplished? The answer is given: “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others” (vv. 3-4).

The mind or attitude of Jesus is what we are aiming for (v. 5), and this was demonstrated by His self-emptying act of dying for us. And as John would say, “We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren” (1 John 3:16).

For the child of God, we are to speak with grace (Col 4:6), love (Eph 4:15), and kindness devoid of bitterness (Eph 4:31-32). We don’t revile or insult in return when such is hurled at us (1 Pet 2:21-23). And Jesus is our example in this.

I am aware that there were times Jesus spoke more harshly, calling out hypocrites for what they were (Matt 23). Yet Jesus knew hearts in ways we do not. He can judge what we are not capable of judging. Be very careful in trying to justify hard language, especially that which is graceless and insulting. We can be direct and straightforward and still be respectful.

We can do better, can we not? I can, and I intend to. If we have arguments to make, make them without rancor and insult. Whether we are talking with unbelievers or fellow saints, we gain nothing by harsh rhetoric that requires us to know the hearts of those with whom we have our discussions. Let the truth be spoken so it can do what the Lord intends for it to do, and let us avoid speaking in a manner that gets in the way of that truth.

— Via Doy Moyer’s Facebook site, April 13, 2024 (Doy had no title for this article, so I thought “Harsh Words” would be a good one.)

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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

The Gospel Observer

April 7, 2024 / Tom Edwards

Contents

1) Philip the Evangelist (David Watson)
2) The Resurrection — Proof that Jesus is the Son of God (Doug Roush)
——————–

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Philip the Evangelist

David Watson

Philip (Acts 6:5) is easy to skip over because we usually focus on the people he dealt with—Simon the magician and the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8). But there are 3 things I want us to notice about Philip and his work that will inspire us to become better Christians.

First, Philip is a great example of loving our neighbors. Due to Saul’s persecution, Philip leaves Jerusalem and goes—of all places—to Samaria and starts proclaiming Christ to them (Acts 8:5)! Most Jews wouldn’t be caught dead with Samaritans (John 4:7-9; 8:48; Luke 9:51-56); but there Philip is, preaching the good news and baptizing men and women (Acts 8:13). That shows us what the gospel of Christ will do for us—it will open our eyes to the value of a soul. It will raise us above racism and bigotry and prejudice. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). Let’s fix that worldview into our minds—that each person around us (friends, family members, complete strangers) has a soul! Like Philip, I should be willing to share the gospel with anyone as an act of love.

Second, Philip shows us the power of the gospel. He is later called “the evangelist” (Acts 21:8). Evangelist means “one who declares the good news.” After declaring the good news to the Samaritans, Philip preaches Christ to the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26-39). Many religious people today teach that in order to understand and accept the gospel and be saved, the Holy Spirit has to miraculously affect you in some way (“irresistible grace”). But notice that’s NOT what happened here. Interestingly, you have an angel (v. 26) and the Holy Spirit (v. 29) directly involved in the conversion of the Ethiopian, but what did they do? They got the preacher of God’s word connected to the person in need. That’s what happens all through the book of Acts—preachers present the evidence and build a logical case for Christ—sometimes reasoning and explaining things over a period of weeks and months and years, and as a result of that, people believed and obeyed. That’s what Philip did for the Samaritans (Acts 8:5, 12) and what he does now for the Ethiopian (Acts 8:35, 36). Christianity is not based on blind faith or on a subjective feeling in my heart. It’s based upon the inspired word of God! No wonder Paul said, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek” (Romans 1:16). May we learn to trust in the power of the gospel!

Third, Philip shows us that we can grow older without growing bitter. Acts 8:40 mentions that he ends up in Caesarea. He disappears from the record until a brief reference in Acts 21:8-14, where Paul and his companions stayed with him for several days. It is here in the record where he’s identified as Philip the evangelist (one who declares the good news), about 20 years after the events of Acts 8. Let’s appreciate that Philip is still at it years later. It’s one thing to start with a bang, and maybe to have a zeal fueled by the events in Acts 7-8, but what about when the newness wears off? Philip’s longevity serves as a great example to us. Can I do that? Can I live for Christ through the years?

But even more than his longevity, notice that Philip has not grown bitter during this time, even though he had plenty of reasons. Remember that Stephen was one of the seven men chosen in Acts 6:5. Thus, if Philip didn’t know Stephen already, he surely got to know him as they worked together. Then Stephen is stoned (with Saul’s approval (Acts 7:58), and it’s very likely that Philip was one of the men who buried Stephen and made loud lamentation over him (Acts 8:2). And then Saul continues the persecution, which is the reason Philip gets run out of Jerusalem to begin with (Acts 8:3-5). And then lo and behold, 20 some-odd years later, who knocks on the door wanting to spend a few nights at Philip’s house? Saul, now called Paul. Imagine that! Imagine what feelings Philip could have harbored! “You killed my friend, Stephen! You threw my brothers and sisters in jail! You ran me out of my home city!” If Philip had been harboring hatred and planning revenge all these years, now was his chance!

But no, he’s not called “Philip, the grouchy old man who gripes all the time about how he was treated poorly and cheated out of a life in Jerusalem and all his friends were killed or thrown in prison.” He is Philip the evangelist. Philip, the proclaimer of good news. In fact, he is probably included in the “local residents” trying to keep Paul safe (Acts 21:12). Let’s follow his example. Are you an old curmudgeon? If somebody does you wrong, are you going to be sure that everybody and their dog is going to hear about it for the next 20 years? Instead of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, do you spend your time developing traits like irritability, grudge-holding, gossiping, revenge, and bitterness? Lots of bad stuff happened to Philip, too, but he didn’t spend his life in his rocking chair plotting revenge. He became Philip the evangelist—Philip the proclaimer of good news!

May we imitate Philip, whose love for souls caused him to spread the good news about Jesus to whoever he could for as long as he could.

— Via Focus Online, May 6, 2019

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The Resurrection – Proof that Jesus is the Son of God

Doug Roush

Romans 1:4 states that Jesus Christ was “declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.” The resurrection of Jesus, more than any other single event, is the ultimate evidence that Jesus of Nazareth was, and is, the Son of God.

Although we have the Bible record of other people being raised from the dead, it certainly was not an everyday occurrence. Jesus raised Lazarus, the widow’s son at Nain, the daughter of Jairus, and perhaps others (John 11; Luke 7:11-15, 22; 8:49-56). Peter raised Dorcas from the dead (Acts 9:36-41). In the Old Testament, both Elijah and Elisha raised people from the dead (1 Kings 17:22; 2 Kings 4:32-35; 13:20-21). However, none of these resurrected individuals were thought to be “gods.”

The case of Jesus is different. As the body of Jesus lay alone in Joseph’s new tomb, no one took Him by the hand and commanded Him to rise. The tomb is sealed and closely guarded. No one stood outside the tomb and called for Him to come forth. No one even witnessed His actual resurrection – the angel rolled away the stone and the guards “became like dead men” (Matthew 28:4). The resurrection of Jesus was accomplished by the direct power of God. The fact that “God raised up” Jesus is declared many times in the Book of Acts (2:24, 32; 3:13; 4:10; 10:40; 13:30, 37). His resurrection is the ultimate evidence that identifies the historic Jesus of Nazareth to be, in fact, the Divine Son of God!

There was physical and testimonial evidence that confirms the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Consider the following details:

The tomb was new. No one had been lain there before (Matthew 27:57; Mark 15:43; Luke 23:51). There was no possibility of confusing the body of Jesus with the remains of another.
The tomb entrance was closed with a large stone, sealed, and guarded. (Matthew 27:60- 66). No one could have taken the body away.
The grave clothes were left neatly in the tomb. When Peter and John went into the tomb after the resurrection, they “saw the linen cloths lying there, and the handkerchief that had been around His head, not lying with the linen cloths, but folded together in a place by itself” (John 20:6-8). No one stealing a body would take the time to unwrap it and neatly fold up the clothes! Only a person who would never have use of them again would leave the expensive grave wrappings behind!
The scars of Jesus’ resurrected body were examined. On the very evening of the day of His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples and “showed them His hands and His side” (John 20:20). Wounds in the hands and feet could be observed on anyone who had been crucified, but the wound in the side of Jesus was unique. It offered gruesome evidence to His identity, and also to what His body had been subjected.
Many people saw Him alive. The number of witnesses to the resurrection of Jesus is overwhelming credible evidence. In a court of law, facts can be established on the basis of two or three reliable witnesses. In addition to the apostles, many, many more saw the resurrected Christ, including Mary Magdalene, Cleopas, James, 500 brethren at once, and finally the apostle Paul.

The detailed nature of the evidence provides overwhelming proof, validating the authenticity of the resurrection of Jesus. His resurrection is the ultimate proof that validates His claim that He is the Son of God, the Way, the Truth, and the Life; the only way to the Father (cf. John 14:6). The detailed and reliable evidence we have for the resurrection of Jesus validates our belief of it. Believing in the resurrection of Jesus is the key to our salvation. “Knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus” (2 Corinthians 4:14).

— Via Articles from the Knollwood church of Christ, March 2024

——————–

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

The Gospel Observer

March 31, 2024 / Tom Edwards

Contents

1) Jesus, Alive Forevermore (Doy Moyer)
2) John the Baptist: A Blend of Humility and Boldness (Bryan Gibson)
3) Sword Tips #16 (Joe R. Price)
——————–

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Jesus, Alive Forevermore

Doy Moyer

“Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades.” (Revelation 1:17-18)

This is how Jesus described Himself after John saw the great vision of “one like a son of man, clothed in a robe reaching to the feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and His hair were white like white wool, like snow; and His eyes were like a flame of fire. His feet were like burnished bronze, when it has been made to glow in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of many waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword; and His face was like the sun shining in its strength” (Revelation 1:14-16, NASB). The power of this description speaks volumes, and it is this One who is “alive forevermore.”

Elsewhere in the book of Revelation, the Lord is said to be “The first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life” (Revelation 2:8). He is the One “who lives forever and ever” (Revelation 10:6; 15:7). Revelation shows that the power of the King of kings and Lord of lords is grounded in the fact that He is alive forevermore. Death and the powers that oppose God cannot defeat Him. His sovereignty extends over death and Hades, which will ultimately be thrown into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:14).

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the hinge on which our faith turns. Paul clarifies that the historical reality of the resurrection is the basis for our own resurrection; without it, our faith would be in vain (I Corinthians 15:12-19). Yet because Jesus was raised from the dead, we can have confidence that what we do for Him is not in vain (I Corinthians 15:58). We cannot overstate the importance of teaching and living by the resurrection of Jesus: “and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf” (II Corinthians 5:15).

Because He is alive forevermore, we have a living hope. The Lord “according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (I Peter 1:3). A living hope is not grounded in a dead martyr, but a living Savior who has defeated death and through whose name alone is salvation (Acts 4:12). Hope is alive because He is alive! This is hope based on Jesus, who is our “high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek” (Hebrews 6:20). Our hope is truly an anchor of the soul.

Further, because Jesus is alive forevermore, we have a continual Intercessor who goes to the Father on our behalf. The writer of Hebrews shows the difference between the temporary Levitical priesthood under the Law and the eternal priesthood of Jesus: “The former priests, on the one hand, existed in greater numbers because they were prevented by death from continuing, but Jesus, on the other hand, because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently. Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them” (Hebrews 7:23-25). Notice that Jesus “continues forever” and “always lives.” Because of this, He can “save forever” those who draw near to God through Him. This should give us confidence, knowing that our Savior lives, intercedes, and comes to our aid in time of need (cf. Hebrews 2:18; 4:15-16).

After shedding His blood, the resurrection made it possible for Jesus to enter into “the holy place once for all.” The result for us is “eternal redemption” (Hebrews 9:12). This coincides with Peter’s point about the living hope concerning the “inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (I Peter 1:4). We need to see that eternal redemption is grounded in an eternal Savior who defeated death.

John wrote, “And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life” (I John 5:11-12). We can have life because Jesus is the resurrection and the life, and “He who believes in the Son has eternal life” (John 3:36). The promises of God can only make sense within a framework of life and eternity. Jesus died, but death does not have the final word. Because Jesus was raised, we have confidence that we will be raised, and “thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (I Corinthians 15:57). He is alive forevermore!

— Via Articles from the La Vista church of Christ, March 29, 2024

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John the Baptist: A Blend of Humility and Boldness

Bryan Gibson

If there was ever a man “clothed with humility” (1 Peter 5:5), it was John the Baptist. It couldn’t have come easy, when you consider the attention given his birth (Luke 1:13-15, 57-66), the importance of his work (Luke 1:16-17, 76-80; 3:2-6), the popularity he gained (Matthew 3:5-6), and the high praise given to him by Jesus (Matthew 11:7-11—“among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist”).

Yet, despite all of this, John the Baptist remained a very humble man. He very quickly put to rest any notions about himself being the Christ, saying, “One mightier than I is coming, who sandal strap I am not worthy to loose” (Luke 3:16). When Jesus came to be baptized by him, John responded with the same humility, “I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?” (Matthew 3:14). He continually deflected the attention away from himself and toward Jesus (John 1:15, 29-27, 29-30). It didn’t even bother him when his disciples left him to follow Jesus (John 1:35-42). When some of his disciples became concerned about the growing popularity of Jesus (John 3:26), he said in effect, “That’s exactly the way it should be!” His very words were, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30).

But there was another quality John seemed to possess in equal measure: boldness or courage. When many of the Pharisees and Sadducees came to him to be baptized, John boldly said, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance” (Matthew 3:7-8). He did more than just make a general call for repentance; he told them specifically what they needed to do (Luke 3:10-14). This same boldness was also directed toward Herod, whom he rebuked “concerning Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done” (Luke 3:19). On this matter of Herod’s wife, John didn’t beat around the bush. He told Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife” (Mark 6:18). That’s not easy to say to anyone, much less someone who has the power to decide your fate. If you remember, it was this rebuke that ultimately cost John his life (Mark 6:19-29). Clearly, John the Baptist was no “reed shaken by the wind” (Luke 7:24), as indicated by Jesus himself. He preached “in the spirit and power of Elijah” (Luke 1:17), who was a pretty bold prophet in his own right.

Think these two qualities—humility and boldness—don’t go together? Think again. True boldness results from humility, from a desire to magnify the Lord, and not oneself. John was not afraid to speak up, because he wanted people to know the Lord and His will for them. He was not afraid to say what needed to be said, because unlike some (John 5:44; 9:22; 12:42-43), he was not after the favor and honor of men. Men like John the Baptist seem to be in short supply today. It’s time we did something about that.

— Via Plain Words from God’s Word, March 20, 2024

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“And take…the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” (Eph. 6:17)

Sword Tips #16

Joe R. Price

“You have heard that it was said, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away” (Matthew 5:38-42).

Revenge takes matters into its own hands. Instead of justice, revenge looks for personal satisfaction at the expense of the one who has wronged us.

Jesus set the example for us of giving place to God’s justice by refusing to retaliate against those who had grievously wronged him.

If you are wronged today, let God correct the wrong that is done; He will do so in his time. Overcome evil by doing good toward those who wrong you. They won’t be expecting it!

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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

The Gospel Observer

March 24, 2024 / Tom Edwards

Contents

1) Judges and Ruth (Doy Moyer)
2) Keeping the Big Picture Before Us (Jesse A. Flowers)
3) Sword Tips #15 (Joe R. Price)
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Judges and Ruth

Doy Moyer

When we think of a judge, we usually think of someone sitting at a bench and overseeing a court case. That’s not what we are looking at in the biblical book, however. Instead, we are reading about “deliverers,” those who were given strength for a time to defeat particular enemies. The period of the judges begins with the death of Joshua and lasts a little over 300 years, ending with the beginning of Saul’s reign in ca. 1050 B.C. Since the judges worked more locally instead of nationally, it is likely that some of them overlapped each other in time. Bear in mind that at this time in Israel’s history, there was still no centralized government, no capital, and no physical king.

While Joshua’s conquests gave the Israelites the land initially, the process of weeding out the nations would take time. This should have been happening in the days of the judges, but sadly it did not. The period of the judges would be a picture of a people who lost their way. It became dismal and dark for the nation. What was supposed to be a theocracy with Yahweh as their king became rather more like anarchy, with no real leadership and little concern for righteousness. This is summed up both in Judges 17:6 and 21:25:

“In those days there was no king in Israel; every man did what was right in his own eyes.”

With no standard, no real purpose, and no sense of God’s covenant, the people strayed horribly. They gave themselves over to idolatry and relativism, politically, religiously, and morally. There was confusion, apostasy, and a spiritual wasteland that came from it all. To get the sense of this, consider Judges 2:11-19, which describes the situation and the general cycle of the judges period.

First, the sons of Israel did evil and went after false gods (Baals). In doing this, they forsook the Lord and provoked Him to anger, which is exactly what He had warned them about. Idolatry became one of their worst problems.

Second, because they provoked God, He gave them over into the hands of plunderers and enemies. God’s hand was against them for their sins, “as the Lord had sworn to them, so that they were severely distressed” (vs. 15).

Third, after a time, God would raise up judges, “who delivered them from the hands of those who plundered them.” Typically, after being severely distressed for a time, they would cry out to God for deliverance. He would listen and send them relief through a deliverer.

Fourth, they would refuse to listen and learn, and so after the judge was gone they would revert back into sin: “they would turn back and act more corruptly than their fathers” (vs. 19). As time progressed, the sins of the people were becoming worse. Each generation carried sin even further. Sadly, that is typically the way sin operates. However far one generation goes, the next will take it further.

Because of the sins of the people, what Joshua had begun in conquering the land was hindered. The nations were not, then, completely driven out; and they would become thorns in the side of Israel.

There are several deliverers mentioned in Judges, and a few that stand out. Sadly, even among the standouts, there are few that would be considered righteous overall. While God gave His Spirit to strengthen them to defeat the enemies, they didn’t always exhibit great personal character. Think of men like Jephthah and Samson. They showed elements of faith, to be sure, but also greatly struggled with carnal attitudes. The only woman to be a deliverer was Deborah, a prophetess, and her contrast with Barak seems to demonstrate that Israel was lacking in serious male leadership at the time (ch. 4-5). Gideon, though scared at first, showed great promise and did some good, but then his wicked son tried to make himself king, which didn’t end well.

One striking issue in Judges is the lack of worship for Yahweh, and precious little mention of the tabernacle. This silence highlights the depth of Israel’s movement away from God at this time in their history. One might wonder how Israel could survive at all. The answer still lies with God, who, through all of this unfaithfulness, would still keep His promises to Abraham alive.

This is where the story of Ruth comes in. The amazing facet to this story is how God take’s a Moabite woman and accomplishes His purposes of redemption through her. The Moabites had been forbidden from being in the assembly of Israel. Yet the evil in Israel at this time contrasts with God’s will, and He uses a gentile woman to keep His plans alive.

While the story of Ruth is itself fascinating, showing the concept of the kinsmen-redeemer, the final purpose of the book is found in the genealogy. The last word in the book is “David.” This period was a time in which they recognized no king, doing what they wanted, and “David” contrasts with this as the man who would become the standard of the kings and type of the Messiah. In such a dismal period, God kept alive that great promise made to Abraham that through His seed all nations would be blessed.

— Via Articles from the Vestavia church of Christ, March 19, 2017

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Keeping the BIG Picture Before Us

Jesse A. Flowers

“Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin” (Hebrews 11:25).

The faith of Moses ought to be inspiring to every Christian. He was raised as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He “was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and deeds” (Acts 7:22). Every day he had access to every form of luxury and pleasure this ancient kingdom had to offer. He was surrounded by immense wealth and was directly connected to royalty. And yet he chose to align himself with the persecuted people of God. He chose rather to “endure ill-treatment” (NASB) with the people of God who were slaves of Egypt experiencing harsh bondage each day. He chose guaranteed mistreatment rather than enjoying the pleasures of sin for a season. He realized that path in life wasn’t worth it in the end. The pleasures of sin are always fleeting. Those who are deceived by them and indulge in them are left empty and unfulfilled. There is no lasting satisfaction that attends sinfulness, only misery, sorrow, and condemnation. As the apostle John wrote, “the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever” (1 John 2:17).

Is there pleasure in sin? The Bible says “yes” there is. Is it worth it? Why don’t we ask David (2 Sam. 11-12) or Judas Iscariot (Matt. 26-27)? As someone once said, “Sin will take you farther than you want to go, keep you longer than you want to stay, and cost you more than you want to pay.” No, the temporary pleasure of sin is never worth it. The wages of sin is death (Rom. 6:23). Our sins separate us from God (Isa. 59:1-2). There is no peace for the wicked (Isa. 48:22). The consequences of fleeting sin will often destroy your life like it did to David. And if unrepented of, it will ultimately cost you your soul (Luke 12:20). As Jesus asked, “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36).

Let us be wise and learn from the example of Moses. Let us possess that kind of faith. Let us always be willing to suffer affliction with the people of God, rather than love the world and the things of the world (1 John 2:15-16) that will be burned up in that Day (2 Peter 3:1-14). Let us always keep the BIG picture before us, as Moses did, and look to the reward (11:26), the eternal reward of heaven!

— Via Articles from the Knollwood church of Christ, March 2024

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“And take…the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph. 6:17).

Sword Tips #15

Joe R. Price

And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses” (Luke 12:15).

Jesus warns us against greediness. Covetousness distorts the meaning of life. Avoid defining your life by the amount of things you possess.

Possessions come and go, and when you die you will not take any of them with you.

You will stand before God in judgment without any of your earthly possessions.

Therefore, “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness” and your physical needs will be supplied by your heavenly Father (Matt. 6:33).

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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

Gospel Observer

March 17, 2024 / Tom Edwards

Contents

1) Where Could I Go But To The Lord . . . (Bill Fairchild, Jr.)
2) The Importance Of Thoughts (Bill Crews)
3) The Mirror Versus The Window (R.J. Evans)
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Where Could I Go But To The Lord . . .

Bill Fairchild, Jr.

“O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You” (2 Chronicles 20:12, NKJV).

There are those unwanted occasions in life when we find ourselves experiencing that uneasy feeling … we don’t know where to turn or what to do!

We may resort to looking to friends and family. While they offer support, they don’t have all the answers. We may turn to our own wisdom, experience, and strength only to shake our head at our woeful limitations.

We are often in the middle of several battles. Not with large physical armies. Maybe our own health or the health of family members or close friends … maybe our financial situation … maybe relationships complications with our families or neighbors … and even those within our own heart and soul.

The question that plagues so many is how to let God fight our battles?

We may be very independent. A quality that can be a blessing or a curse. A certain degree of independence can be of benefit. But it can also become a stumbling block that, if allowed to go unchecked, can stand between us and our God and His will for our lives.

When the Old Testament King Jehoshaphat received word that three armies had conspired together and were coming against him in one massive assault, he made a decisive and unconventional leadership move. His plea recorded in 2 Chronicles 20:1-13 … “God, we’re facing an enemy that is stronger than we are. We don’t know what to do, but we’re looking to You for help.”

How many times have we been in a similar situation … helpless and in some ways hopeless. We ought to be turning to the Lord with eyes focused on Him! It is with Him that we can find the wisdom, guidance, comfort, and peace that He alone can provide.

Our Lord never grows weary of our taking our worries, concerns, problems, and challenges before His throne! He longs for His people to address their needs to Him … yours and mine. He is always ready to listen and answer … according to His will and nature!

The Lord answered Jehoshaphat by Jahaziel, the son of Zechariah. The Spirit of the Lord came upon him while he was with the congregation.

2 Chronicles 20:15, “… Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours but God’s.”

Jehoshaphat’s hope was built on the promises and presence of God. Does this describe our hope, our faith and trust in the Lord? Centuries long ago, when the people of God had divided into northern and southern kingdoms, it was God’s name that dwelt in Judah, and therefore His glory was at stake in this great horde marching against them. Jehoshaphat knows that God is faithful to keep all His promises, so he appeals to Him with great confidence and directness knowing he will find well-timed help because of the covenant love of God. (Hebrews 4:14-16)

In the same way, even when we feel overwhelmed by our circumstances, steady hope lives and endures in the promises of God to us in Christ. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who will lead us even in the valley of the shadow of death, pursuing us with His goodness and mercy all the days of our lives. (Psalm 23:4, 6)

Nothing will separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:31-39)

Except our own choice to dismiss His instructions.

It is when we find ourselves afraid and fearful, unsettled, and uncertain … that we turn to the blessed avenue of prayer, and we pray with confidence because of these sure and steady promises … promises that are ours because Jesus bled and died to make us “sons and daughters of God.”

Whatever battles you are facing today, seek God. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him” (James 1:5).

— Via Walking in Sunlight, March 14, 2024
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The Importance Of Thoughts

Bill Crews

If you are concerned about your character, your conduct, your life and your destiny, then be concerned about your thoughts. “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life” (Prov. 4:23). The heart is the mind, and the mind is the center of thoughts. “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he” (Prov. 23:7). A man may not be what he appears to be, but he is what he thinks.

What goes into your mind, then, is extremely important. Be careful about the interests you acquire, the tastes you cultivate, the desires you develop. They shape what goes into your mind. The conversations you listen to, the scenes you observe, the movies you view, the TV programs you tune into, the newspapers, magazines and books you read, the songs by which you are entertained, the jokes you laugh at, the things you are taught all have a part in feeding information into your mind.

You evaluate and monitor all that you hear and see. Your standard for evaluation and your conscience are vital and play their roles. You may seek out or receive what is vulgar or distorted, or you may reject and refuse it. You may pursue and embrace what is wholesome and true, or you may have no interest in it and neglect it. Be cautious, particular and selective about what goes into your mind. If you allow garbage to go in, then garbage will come out in the form of words and deeds.

What goes on in your mind is also extremely important. Be careful about your thoughts, meditations, desires, ambitions, daydreams and fantasies. You determine what goes on in your mind. You are the master of it because you have control over it. It is your own little secret world — except that God knows all about it, and will one day bring it to light when you have to answer for it in the judgment (Eccl. 12:14; Acts 17:30-31; Rom. 2:16; 2 Cor. 5:10). And sooner or later it will find expression in your life and make itself known.

We cannot be like God without thinking the thoughts of God. We cannot know the thoughts of God apart from the revelation of the things of God in the word of God (1 Cor. 2:11-13). We cannot have the thoughts of God in our hearts apart from reverent study of and meditation upon the word of God, coupled with a sincere desire to do the will of God (Jn. 7:17).

— Via Viewpoint from the Valley Grove church of Christ, February 6, 2022
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The Mirror Versus The Window

R.J. Evans

The common philosophy of our culture today fosters the “me, my, and mine” attitude.

From early childhood onward, so much emphasis is being placed on “have your own way,” “do your own thing,” and “look out for number one.”

Some see life through a window while others view life in a mirror. Those who view life in a mirror only see themselves. They are only concerned with self, because they can’t see the needs of others around them. Those who view life through a window, see others first, with a faded reflection of self. They are truly concerned about all those about them. They do everything possible to seek the good of others. This is how parents should be teaching their children — look through the window, not just focus on yourself in the mirror!

There is another mirror, however, that we need to constantly look into in order to see ourselves as God sees us — the mirror of God’s Word (Jas. 1:22-26). As Christians we must always place Christ and the advancement of His Cause first in our lives. “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matt. 6:33). Further we are told to “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others” (Phil. 2:3-4).

Thus, living the Christian life is a life of ministry and service to others. Jesus taught this throughout the whole time he lived among men. At the close of His life here on earth, He demonstrated what He had been teaching by performing the lowly act of washing His disciples’ feet (Jn. 13). Give some serious thought to the teachings of Christ before you begin to think you have to have “your way” in everything. Selfishness has no place in the service of the Lord. Stop looking at life in the mirror (of self); view it through the window!

— Via Viewpoint from the Valley Grove church of Christ, May 22, 2022

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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

The Gospel Observer

March 10, 2024 / Tom Edwards

Contents

1) Wait on the Lord — Psalm 27 (Russ Bowman)
2) Recognizing Idioms (Jerry Fite)
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Wait on the Lord — Psalm 27

Russ Bowman

One of the greatest – and most challenging – admonitions in the entire Bible is found in Ps. 27.14: “Wait on the LORD. Be of good courage and He will strengthen your heart. Wait, I say, on the LORD!” There are numerous circumstances scattered along the road of life which test our trust in God. Trial and temptation, death and disease, opposition and oppression, failure and frustration each have their own peculiar impact upon our confidence in God. But few things test us like waiting tests us. Comparatively, many followers of Jesus are more than willing to stand up and contend for what is right, to actively defend our faith, to set our heart and persist in our service when confronted with difficulties. Like Peter in the garden, we’re ready to draw our sword and fight. But it is a much greater challenge to put our sword away and wait for the Lord to accomplish His plans and purposes.

We are not alone in when it comes to the challenge of waiting. Abraham waited twenty-five years for the child of promise. Moses waited four decades before God sent him back to Egypt. Saul failed to wait a full seven days for Samuel to arrive, and who knows how long David waited for God to set him on the throne of Israel. Esau couldn’t wait for supper, and sold his birthright. Job had to endure horrible loss and unfair accusation before God reminded him of His power, and still we do not know that God ever explained to him what had happened. Habakkuk and Zechariah cried to God in their confusion, waiting for answers and resolution. The prodigal son couldn’t wait to leave home. The farmer waits for the early and latter rain (Jas. 5.7). The souls under the altar are told to wait for God’s vindication of their unjust death (Rev. 6.10-11). Waiting is hard.

Yet, waiting on God is the ultimate expression of trust.

Psalm 27 is somewhat uncommon compared to many of David’s compositions. Most are reflective expressions of emotion, directed toward God in supplication or praise. David’s heart is laid bare in the majority of his psalms. He is crying out in pain, or fear, or confusion, or despair. Or, he is singing the praises and hailing the virtues and glories of the LORD. And, while he occasionally calls upon the reader to join him or engage in some kind of activity, most of his psalms are expressive. Rarely, however, he will offer a psalm that is purely instructive. Psalm 37 is a series of admonitions and imperatives. Similarly, Psalms 33, 34, and 66 have some directive at their heart. I would propose that Psalm 27 is intended to fall into this didactic category, though it is unique in design.

This psalm begins with statements of supreme confidence in God (vv. 1-6). David sees the LORD as his “light…salvation…strength.” He notes God’s past deliverance when confronted by armies of his enemies. The value of association and intimacy with YAHWEH is clear in his desire to “dwell in the house of the LORD.” He is unwavering in the certainty of God’s victory on his behalf, and that faith is expressed in sacrifice and praise. However, beginning in v. 7, many see a change in tone, as David cries out for mercy, assurance, and association. This tone, it is often argued, pervades the psalm through v. 13. It has even been suggested that Ps. 27 is a composite, either written by two different authors, or by David in two different circumstances. Please consider an alternative.

What if David has a simple admonition for us? “Wait on the LORD. Be of good courage and He shall strengthen your heart. Wait, I say, on the LORD.” Just how do I get there? We all need this most powerful ability. But waiting is not merely the product of a simple decision. Instead, waiting on the LORD is the product of a well-developed faith. In v. 13, David notes that he would have “lost heart unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” From whence such conviction? From experience.

Vv. 1-3 offer what David had learned from his own past. God had delivered him. We do not know the circumstances that David has in mind, nor do we need to know them. David knew what he had experienced, and was confident in God’s protection. Thus, “the LORD is my light and my salvation…the LORD is the strength of my life” (v.1). Vv. 4-6 record the impact of God’s activity upon David. He was utterly devoted to God, and nothing appealed to him more than dwelling in the very presence of YAHWEH. Residing in the tent of God, marveling at God’s glory, rejoicing in God’s wisdom was, to David, the ultimate protection. Moreover, as David looks to the uncertainty of the future, and the almost inevitability of further opposition, he knows that God will continue to hear him and accompany him. Vv. 7-12 are not expressions of hesitation and fear, but considerations of temporal uncertainty wherein God will again be the light, the salvation, the strength. Perhaps v. 12 notes an enemy at the gates, but David knows that the LORD will “take care of me” and “lead me in a smooth path” (vv. 10-11), even if his own parents were to desert him. It is this confidence in God that prompts the declaration of v. 13, “I would have lost heart, unless I had believed…”

God calls us to trust…even trust in its most difficult form. When life is hard. When the enemy is near. When all others forsake us. When we can see no end. When defeat seems inevitable. When we do not know what to do. When we realize that there is nothing we can do. Then is when we look back and reflect upon the activity of God in the lives of His saints. God delivers His people, even though we may have to wait…and wait…and wait. Even if our waiting has to transcend this temporal realm. Trust never loses sight of “the goodness of God in the land of the living.”

Wait on the Lord.

— Via Focus Online, October 28, 2020

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Recognizing Idioms

Jerry Fite

The English word “idiom” comes from the Greek word “idios,” meaning “one’s own.” The word is used recognizing “the language peculiar to any particular author or speaker,” or “the language peculiar to one nation or tribe, as opposed to other languages or dialects.”

E. W. Bullinger reminds us of an important fact as we strive to properly interpret the Scriptures: “The fact must ever be remembered that, while the language of the New Testament is Greek, the agents and instruments employed by the Holy Spirit were Hebrews” (Figures of Speech Used in the Bible, page 819). Therefore, Hebrew idioms, phrases peculiar to Hebrews and their way of speaking occur in our New Testament. We must recognize them, or we will not interpret the Scriptures properly.

The phrase “to hear” is used idiomatically in I Corinthians 14:2: “He that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not to men but to God, for no one heareth him.” “No one heareth,” literally interpreted as no one hearing words, would render a false meaning of the author. It is an idiom indicating no one “understands” the speaker who speaks in a language he does not know. The idiom conveys the concept of “believing” in John 9:27. Here, the man cured from blindness answers his persistent questioners with, “I have told you already, and ye did not hear…” They heard his words but did not “believe” him. The idiom also indicates “receiving” in John 8:43. Jesus says, “Why do ye not understand My speech? Even because ye cannot hear my word.” They were not hard of hearing literal words, but they refused to “receive” His word. So, “to hear” is properly interpreted “to understand,” “to believe” and “to receive.”

Recognizing this idiom keeps one from rushing to the position that the Bible contradicts itself. In giving the account of Paul hearing the voice of the Lord, Luke writes, “and the men that journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing the voice, but beholding no man” (Acts 9:7). Later, Luke records Paul’s words of the same event as “And they that were with me beheld indeed the light, but they heard not the voice of Him that spake to me” (Acts 22:9). The first passage is in the genitive case meaning they heard “the sound” of the voice. The latter passage, in the accusative case, indicates they did not hear “the subject matter.” In the first passage they heard the sound of the voice, while the second verse indicates that, while they heard the sound, they did not understand what was being said. Knowing “to hear” is used idiomatically not only guards us from a rash conclusion indicting the Scriptures, but enriches our knowledge with the proper interpretation.

Some believers are troubled that Jesus was not in the tomb for the full three days and nights as He seems to promise in Matthew 12:40. As Jonah was in the belly of the great fish three days and three nights, Jesus promised that the Son of man will “be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” Such fear is unfounded when we recognize the phrase as a Hebrew idiom covering any parts of three days and nights. Esther says she and her maidens will not eat or drink for “three days, night or day” and yet it was on the third day Esther went to see the king (Esther 4:16, 5:1). Jesus was in the tomb part of Friday, all of Saturday and part of Sunday. Jesus did not contradict His promise. Jesus and writers of the New Testament used idioms. Recognize them!

— Via Glad Tidings, Vol. XXVIII, No. 28, July 15, 2018

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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.)

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