Category: Uncategorized (Page 1 of 57)

The Gospel Observer

June 7, 2026 / 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) The Messiah’s Humiliation (Gary Henry)
2) “Put On Love, Which is the Bond of Perfection” (R.J. Evans)
3) Psalm 119:9-16 (Berean Study Bible)

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The Messiah’s Humiliation

Gary Henry

“I can count all my bones — they stare and gloat over me; they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots” (Psalm 22: 17,18).

ALL FOUR OF THE GOSPELS IN THE NEW TESTAMENT ALLUDE TO THIS PART OF PSALM 22. In Matthew 27:35; Mark 15:24; Luke 23:34; and John 19:24, there are references to the dividing of Jesus’ garments by the soldiers at His crucifixion. John specifically mentions that this was a fulfillment of prophecy. Yet this is only one of several details in Psalm 22 that describe Jesus’ death. Let’s look at some of the others, and as we do, ask yourself how these could have been fulfilled so vividly and specifically in the death of Jesus if He were not, in fact, the person being pictured in this Psalm.

(1) There is, as we saw yesterday, Jesus’ cry of agony from the cross, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” (v.1), which is quoted in Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34. (2) The mocking that was hurled at Jesus, recorded in Matthew 27:39-43, is powerfully depicted in vv.6-8 of Psalm 22. (3) The devastation of the body of a person being crucified is pictured realistically in v.14. (4) The thirst described in v.15 is emphasized in John 19:28. (5) In v.16, there is the saying, “They have pierced my hands and feet.” This wording, while controversial, is supported by the LXX, Syriac, and Vulgate translations and is attested by the earliest manuscript of Psalm 22 discovered among the Dead Sea Scrolls. (6) Finally, there is in v.18, as we saw above, the gambling for the garments of the one being executed. This point is included in all four of the gospels.

In addition to these points, there is the general impression in Psalm 22 — an absolutely profound impression — that one is reading an actual description of what happened when Jesus died. If it was only a vague resemblance, one might argue that the similarity was just a coincidence. But an account with this many specifics, and corresponding so closely to the death of Jesus, can be explained in only one way: David was enabled by God’s Spirit to predict what he could not have known about in any other way.

So we come back to the point we began with yesterday. How can it be that the Messiah, of all people, would die such a death? It is simply that His death was required for our atonement. He reigns in glory today, but the cross had to come before the crown.

“It is suffering and then glory” (Robert Crawford McQuilkin).

— via WordPoints, April 6, 2026

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“Put On Love, Which is the Bond of Perfection”

R.J. Evans

“Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart…And above all things have fervent love for one another, for ‘love will cover a multitude of sins’” (1 Pet. 2:22; 4:8).

Our text is emphasizing the need for fervent love among Christians, and that need is above anything else in our relationship to each other. These verses from the pen of the inspired Apostle Peter do not stand alone in saying that love is the greatest and most important need among the people of God. Let us give consideration to the following:

In that great chapter on love, 1 Corinthians 13, where love is personified, the chapter ends by mentioning three important abiding things to the Christian. But notice which one is the greatest: “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love” (1 Cor. 13:13).

After giving a list of important things Christians need to “put on” in their lives, the Apostle Paul then said, “But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection” (Col. 3:14).

When Jesus was asked “Which is the first commandment of all?” Without any hesitation, He said, “The first of all commandments is: ‘Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. And the second like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these” (Mk. 12:29-30). After we obey the gospel and become “followers of God as dear children,” surely nothing is as important as to “walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us” (Eph. 5:1-2).

Even if we could do some marvelous things such as speak many languages of men and of angels–if it is not done in love, it would only be making noise such “as sounding brass or clanging cymbal” (1 Cor. 13:1). If we were the greatest preacher ever known and knew all the answers to all the questions, and even had enough faith to remove mountains—if we did not have love in our hearts, we would be “nothing” (1 Cor. 13:2). If we gave all our possessions to feed the poor, and even died doing the Lord’s work–if it was not motivated by love, it profits us “nothing” (1 Cor. 13:3). We should therefore take it seriously when the Scripture says, “Let all that you do be done with love” (1 Cor. 16:14).

We express or manifest our love for the Lord by obeying His commandments. Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (Jn. 14:15). The Apostle John said, “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome” (1 Jn. 5:3). We must ever be mindful of the need to have fervent love for one another. For if we do not love our brother, please notice what we are told: “If someone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?” (1 Jn. 4:20).

Our fervent love for one another is so important, especially when we consider the effects it has on how others view us. Jesus said, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (Jn. 13:34-35). Question: By the love you are showing, would anyone recognize you as a disciple of Christ?

Love must be the underlying motive and reason for all that we do. It solves so many potential problems. If you are a parent, one of the greatest things you can do for your children is to show your love for God, for your spouse, and for them. If there are problems within a local church, love is the answer–love for God, love for truth, love for one another.

In view of what we have covered in this short article, it is truly understandable why “love will cover a multitude of sins” (1 Pet. 4:8). We close with these words— “Beloved, if God so loved us. we ought to love one another” (1 Jn. 4:11).

— Via the bulletin of the Southside church of Christ, Gonzales, LA, March 10, 2019

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Psalm 119:9-16

Gimel

9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word.

10 With all my heart I have sought You; do not let me stray from Your commandments.

11 I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.

12 Blessed are You, O LORD; teach me Your statutes.

13 With my lips I proclaim all the judgments of Your mouth.

14 I rejoice in the way of Your testimonies as much as in all riches.

15 I will meditate on Your precepts and regard Your ways.

16 I will delight in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word.

— Via Berean Study Bible

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Matthew 4:4

But Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’” (Berean Study Bible).

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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 (except for last of the month Song Service)
and 10 a.m. Worship Service
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 31, 2026 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

1) Building a Good Name (Bryan Gibson)
2) “You Seek Me…Because You Ate of the Loaves and Were Filled” (R.J. Evans)

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Building a Good Name

Bryan Gibson

Found among the qualifications for elders: “he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil” (1 Timothy 3:7). So an elder must have a good reputation, not just among his brothers and sisters in Christ, but also among those outside the church. “A good name in the community” is how we might express it.

But a good name is not just important for elders. “All the people of my town know you are a virtuous woman” (Ruth 3:11)—that’s what Boaz said about Ruth, and it sure would be great if the people of our town thought that highly of each one of us. What else does the Bible say about a good name?

A good name is a very valuable asset.

“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches…” (Proverbs 22:1). “A good name is better than precious ointment…” (Ecclesiastes 7:1). Why so valuable? Because it greatly affects the influence we have on those around us. It’s awful hard to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world if our reputation has been damaged (see Matthew 5:13-16).

It takes many deeds to build a good name, only one to lose it.

Seems unfair, but experience bears it out. Here’s one way a good reputation can be ruined: “Debate your case with your neighbor, and do not disclose the secret to another; lest he who hears it expose your shame, and your reputation be ruined” (Proverbs 25:9-10). Showing a lack of trustworthiness—telling something we should not—is a good way to ruin a good name. I’m sure you can think of many others. Sometimes, we don’t even have to do anything wrong to lose our good name; it could be we’re just guilty of suspicious behavior. See 2 Corinthians 8:16-21 for how Paul was careful to avoid even the appearance of evil. A Chinese proverb says, “When walking in your neighbor’s melon patch, don’t stop to tie your shoe.” You may not be stealing any melons, but it sure looks like it. How people perceive our actions—that’s important, too.

A good name is important, but character comes FIRST.

The difference between reputation and character? He’s obviously not an inspired writer, but Thomas Paine put it this way: “Reputation is what men and women think of us. Character is what God knows about us.” The first order of business will always be to please God, to develop the kind of character with which He is pleased, and if we can do that, the good reputation will follow. You can see this illustrated in 1 Samuel 2:26 (“Samuel grew…in favor both with the Lord and men”) and Luke 2:52 (“Jesus increased…in favor with God and men”).

It is possible to have a good reputation, to be well spoken of by men, but still not be pleasing to God.

This was certainly the case with the church at Sardis: “you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead” (Revelation 3:1). Another example would be the Pharisees who did enough to gain a good reputation among at least some of their fellow Jews, but were far from pleasing to God (Matthew 23:23, 25, 28). We can sometimes fool people; we can never fool God.

Conclusion

The ultimate aim in all this? To have the same thing said about us that was said about Demetrius. Read it carefully. “Demetrius has a good testimony from all, and from the truth itself. And we also bear witness, and you know that our testimony is true” (3 John 1:12). It’s great when witnesses all around speak well of us; it’s even better when the witness is the truth itself.

— Via the Weekly Bulletin of the Prattmont church of Christ, June 2, 2024

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“You Seek Me…Because You Ate of the Loaves and Were Filled”

R.J. Evans

While Jesus was here on earth, He told a large group of people, “Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled” (Jn. 6:26). He stated this after He fed the five thousand and had perceived that the multitude wanted to take Him and by force make Him their king (Jn. 6:1-15). That evening His disciples were going across the Sea of Galilee by boat, and Jesus came to them walking on the water (Jn. 6:15-21). The next day, when the crowd realized that Jesus had gone to the other side of the sea, they got in their boats seeking to find Him (Jn. 6:22-25). It was on this occasion, under these circumstances, that Jesus rebuked them for seeking Him for the wrong reason (v. 26). To put it all in perspective, Jesus went on to say, “Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him” (Jn. 6:27).

It is so interesting, as well as disappointing, that brethren today think the same way concerning the church—its worship, work, and mission. Somehow, they have convinced themselves that the church is to be “filled” with worldly things that will attract large crowds of people who will be spiritually minded as they grow and develop. But this is not true! It is most certainly a falsehood and a deception.

Worldly activities never produce anything but that which is also worldly and carnal. Why do some think that bringing in “loaves and fishes” (dining/banquet halls, entertainment, ball teams, etc.) will appeal to spiritually minded people? Or, that these kind of activities will increase one’s spirituality? The more carnal, worldly things that are brought in, the more worldly and fleshly things will be required to keep the kind of people who have been drawn in by all these unscriptural activities. There is an often-used slogan that in effect says: “If we use hamburgers and hot dogs to draw people to the church, then we will have to continue to provide hamburgers, hot dogs, and much more, to keep them.” It is the gospel of Christ that is “the power of God to salvation”–not fun, food, and frolic! (Rom. 1:16; 1 Cor. 1:21; 15:1-2; Jn. 6:44-45)

It is unfortunate to see so many of our brethren caught up in the “social gospel” today. The difference between the individual and home activities, as opposed to the worship, mission and work of the church, is clearly set forth by what the Apostle Paul told the Corinthians. He strongly rebuked them because they had perverted their worship by turning the Lord’s Supper into a feast or meal. “What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this? I do not praise you….But if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, lest you come together for judgment. And the rest I will set in order when I come” (1 Cor. 11:22, 34). The difference between the role of an individual Christian versus the role of the church is also set forth by Paul in the context about the work of caring for widows in 1 Timothy 5:3-16. The last verse of this paragraph makes the difference clear and distinct: “If any believing man or woman has widows, let them relieve them, and do not let the church be burdened, that it may relieve those who are really widows” (v. 16).

Are you seeking true worshipers who “will worship the Father in spirit and truth” (Jn. 4:23-24)? Or, are you one who seeks to be “filled” with “the loaves” (Jn. 6:26-27)?

— Via a bulletin of the Southside church of Christ, Gonzales, LA, April 28, 2019

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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 (except for last of the month Song Service)
and 10 a.m. Worship Service
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 24, 2026 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

1) Living As Christians Should (R.J. Evans)
2) The New Man’s Speech (Heath Rogers)
3) Psalm 119:1-8 (Berean Standard Bible)

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Living As Christians Should Live

R.J. Evans

Throughout history, men generally have been selfish and lacked genuine concern for God and others. In recent years, we have had many describe those of this world as the “Me” generation. And, not to be cynical, but in reality, we live in a world where most people think only of themselves and their own interests. So many think nothing of using or taking advantage of others; they show hatred, envy, and jealousy toward those within their circle of friends and associates; they never show sympathy, or are willing to empathize with others; and they seek to gratify and fulfill whatever desires they have for themselves.

While Jesus was here on earth, He taught many wonderful lessons in what is referred to as “The Sermon on the Mount” (Matt. 5 – 7). One thing for certain, what He teaches “goes against the grain” of what men naturally tend to do in their day-to-day living. In the sermon, He taught the blessings of serving God; being examples to others (salt/city/light); the sin of committing murder and adultery in one’s heart; going the second mile; loving and praying for our enemies; not doing our good works for show; and a host of other great lessons. This sermon tells us how we ought to live, not as the world lives, but according to God’s will for our lives.

But when it comes to living the kind of life that pleases God, and not self, there are many other instructions throughout God’s Word. In this article, here’s just a sampling of living as Christians should live:

1. Be open to and heed correction. “The ear that hears the reproof of life will abide among the wise” (Prov. 15:31). The Apostle Peter had to correct and rebuke Simon the sorcerer for his attempting to purchase the power of laying his hands on others to impart miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:9-25). The Apostle Paul had to openly correct the Apostle Peter by withstanding him to the face for being a hypocrite at Antioch (Gal. 2:11-14).

2. Be interested and considerate of others. “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). This characterized the life of the Apostle Paul. He consistently prayed for his brethren, as is evidenced in all his epistles. Beyond all his physical difficulties, he stated: “Besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: My deep concern for all the churches” (2 Cor. 11:28).

3. See ourselves realistically. “For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more higher than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith” (Rom. 12:3). Again, this involves not being conceited and lifted up with pride (Phil. 2:3).

4. Rejoice with others when they are happy and cry with them when they are sad. “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (Rom. 12:15). This eliminates envy and jealousy. Again, “if one member sufferers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it” (1 Cor. 12:26).

5. Sympathize and empathize with others. We do this when we practice what is sometimes called “The Golden Rule.” “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matt. 7:12).

6. Deny ourselves. “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me” (Matt. 7:24). And, of course, denying self and following Christ involves serving others. The Apostle Paul said it this way: “And I will gladly spend and be spent for your souls; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I am loved” (2 Cor. 12:15).

Oh, what a blessing it is when we are living as Christians should live. Many other things could be mentioned, but this should be sufficient to help us see the need to do what the Lord said in Revelation 2:10: “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.”

— Via the Southside church of Christ in Gonzales, LA, September 29, 2019

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The New Man’s Speech

Heath Rogers

“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers” (Eph. 4:29).

The apostle Paul continues to describe changes that take place in our daily lives as we put off the old man of sin and put on the new man according to God’s righteousness and holiness (Eph. 4:22-24). Having already corrected one sin we commit with our speech (lying – v. 25), he now addresses our conversation in a more general way.

James likens our tongue to a fire (James 3:6). Fire has power to do good, but it also has the power to destroy. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit” (Prov. 18:21). We must be careful how we wield this powerful tool each of us has received from God.

“Corrupt” is translated from the Greek word sapros which literally means rotten or worthless, worn out and unfit for use. These are words that have a corrupting influence on those who hear them. Paul goes on to specify the putting away of “evil speaking” (v. 31), “foolish talking,” “coarse jesting” (5:4), and the shame of speaking about the unfruitful works of darkness that are done in secret (5:11-12). This is the kind of speech that would characterize the old man of sin but must stop when we put on the new man.

Emphasis is placed on the hearers – those who will be impacted by our speech. Instead of hurting people with our words (either purposely or carelessly), we should use our words to help, encourage, cheer, and comfort others. We have a responsibility to contribute to the building up of others. It is easy to destroy others with careless words. The new man gives thought to speaking what is good for the purpose of edifying those who hear his words. This also applies to the things we post on social media.

“That it may impart grace to the hearers.” We must take care that our words have a positive effect on others. “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one” (Col. 4:6). The ability to communicate our thoughts is a great blessing. God wants this blessing to be used as a blessing to others. Not only must we refrain from using corrupt speech, we must make the effort to say the right things, in the right way, at the right time.“The heart of the righteous studies how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours forth evil” (Prov. 15:28).

James says no man can tame the tongue (James 3:8). One difference between the old man and the new man is that the new man tries to tame his tongue.

— Via Articles from the Knollwood church of Christ, March 2026

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Psalm 119:1-8

Aleph

1 Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the Law of the LORD.

2 Blessed are those who keep His testimonies
and seek Him with all their heart.

3 They do no iniquity;
they walk in His ways.

4 You have ordained Your precepts,
that we should keep them diligently.

5 Oh, that my ways were committed
to keeping Your statutes!

6 Then I would not be ashamed
when I consider all Your commandments.

7 I will praise You with an upright heart
when I learn Your righteous judgments.

8 I will keep Your statutes;
do not utterly forsake me.

— Berean Standard Bible

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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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The Gospel Observer

May 17, 2026 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

1) Consider Your End (Brian A. Yeager)
2) Sword Tips #148 (Joe R. Price)

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Consider Your End

Brian A. Yeager

Prior to obeying the Gospel, I found myself considering what would happen if I were to die. When those questions arose in my mind I often dismissed them. I would refocus my mind so that I was not thinking about death, God, and eternal life/damnation. While I was completely ignorant of the Scriptures, I knew within that I was not in a good spiritual condition (though I would not have used such terminology then).

After I obeyed the Gospel, there was a period of time wherein I fell away. I was still sitting in the pew, vainly singing songs, giving, etc. During this time of apostasy, I quickly dismissed any thinking about the condition of my soul. I blamed others for my spiritual decline. Now, knowing about the consequences of sin, I simply focused harder on everything else so that I did not have to be aware of my end. In fact, I knew I was lost and I knew the consequences. I just ignored those facts.

In times prior to obeying the Gospel and in apostasy afterward, I ignored the condition of my soul during the daytime. It was when I was resting and not busy, normally at night, that I found my mind going toward my spiritual condition. I cannot imagine that I was much different than many people are right now. It is easy to focus on other things during busy days, but when you’re in bed it’s much easier to think about whether or not you will awaken in this world or in Hades. When you’re laying up at night and your mind begins racing about final things (cf. Psalms 6:3-7), don’t ignore those doubts and fears. Learn to think about these things more often than just some nights in bed. We need to spend time considering what’ll happen at the end of our lives.

God Wants Us To Consider Our End

As Christians we live this life looking forward to the end and our ultimate salvation (1 Peter 1:3-9). Consider the following Scriptures, though the contexts vary, about how we should consider the end of our lives: “For they are a nation void of counsel, neither is there any understanding in them. O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end… So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. . . The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof. . . And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God” (Deuteronomy 32:28-29, Psalms 90:12, Jeremiah 5:31, Luke 12:16-21). In thinking of our end, we want to find hope rather than dread.

Finding Hope In Death

We should find comfort when we think of the end of our days in this life. Notice these Scriptures: “The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death. . . Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus. . . For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. . . For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing”(Proverbs 14:32, Acts 21:13, Philippians 1:21-24, and 2 Timothy 4:6-8).

Having spent many years fearing death, I now find great comfort when I consider my end. I certainly do not miss those nights of fear. Now, the fears and sorrows I have are for the souls of others (Romans 9:1-3). To get to that point I had [have] to live a life of faithfulness to be prepared for my end.

Living The Right Life Now So That Your End Will Be Eternal Life

In a parable about ten virgins, there were five prepared to meet the Lord and five who were unprepared. The five unprepared virgins did not receive more time to get ready, but were shut out of life with the Lord. The lesson of that parable is watching and being prepared for the coming of the Lord (Matthew 25:1-13). Whether the Lord comes first or if we die, we’re expected to always be doing the will of God and thus being prepared for our end (Matthew 24:42-46).

Noah is a good example of preparation. Noah knew the world was going to be flooded (Genesis 6:9-17). Noah therefore prepared for the day wherein God flooded the earth (Hebrews 11:7). We know the world is going to end (1 John 2:17). Therefore, we need to spend our limited time on this earth preparing for our end (2 Peter 3:9-14). If the world does not end in our time, we still have to prepare for the day wherein each of us will die (Psalms 89:48, Ecclesiastes 12:7, and Hebrews 9:27). Whether it is the Day of Judgment or if we die first, the only way to be prepared for a reward at the end is to live faithfully now (Matthew 7:21-23, John 4:36, Romans 6:22, and Revelation 2:10).

Conclusion

Our lives are merely vapors, which appear for a short time and then vanish away (Psalms 78:39 and James 4:13-15). In considering that life is brief, we need to spend our time here on earth being productive (Ecclesiastes 9:10). Don’t waste time ignoring your soul. Allow fear to move you to work toward a good end for your soul (Philippians 2:12). In closing, consider these two Scriptures: “Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace. But the transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off” (Psalms 37:37-38)

— Via Viewpoint from the Valley Grove church of Christ, January 16, 2022

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

Sword Tips #148

Joe R. Price

Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you say, “I have no pleasure in them.” (Ecclesiastes 12:1)

King Solomon makes a compelling reason to remember God when you are young. As you get older, the way you think and the things you do can make it harder to turn to God in fullness of faith. As youth gives way to age you can convince yourself that you cannot change who you are and what you do. Or, you may believe you do not need to change. The longer you live without God the easier it is to keep doing so. Your heart becomes hard against God and his truth as sin becomes entrenched in your thinking and conduct. Take pleasure in God early and often; rejoice in his blessings and live in his truth. By doing so you can face getting older with faith instead of doubt.

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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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The Gospel Observer

May 10, 2026 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

1) The New Man’s Anger (Heath Rogers)
2) “The Glory Due To His Name” (R.J. Evans)
3) “Just As I Am” (Frank Himmel)

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The New Man’s Anger

Heath Rogers

“‘Be angry, and do not sin’: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil” (Eph. 4:26-27).

As Paul describes putting off the old man of sin and putting on the new man, we might expect him to deliver a complete prohibition against anger. This emotion produces words and actions that cause pain and destruction. To our surprise, Paul says we can “be angry.”

The new man “was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness” (Eph. 4:24). It is impossible for God to lie (v. 25), but He is very capable of displaying anger when things violate His righteousness and holiness. Jesus expressed anger and righteous indignation (Mark 3:5; John 2:14-16). Being made in God’s image (Gen. 1:26-27), we are capable of anger. God allows us to retain this natural emotion, but we are warned to control it.

Anger is dangerous because it is a very strong emotion. All strong emotions are doorways to sin. Cain was angry about God rejecting his offering. “Then the Lord said to Cain, ‘Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it’” (Gen. 4:6-7, NASB). When we find our anger being aroused, a warning should go off in our head – we are getting dangerously close to sin! If we stay in this state very long, it will give the devil the opening he needs to lead us into performing his will. “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God” (James 1:19-20).

Our anger must be resolved quickly – “Do not let the sun go down on your wrath.” The setting of the sun marks the end of the day. Unresolved anger must never be left out overnight. It robs us of a peaceful night’s sleep. We spend hours demonizing the objects of our anger, making them sworn enemies deserving of our wrath. Given the opportunity, anger will turn inward and take root in our heart as bitterness, hatred, and resentment. This residual poison leads to malice and vengeance. None of this belongs in the new man.

We can either control our anger, or it will control us. Christ expects His followers to learn to control all their strong emotions. Anyone can become angry. However, learning to be angry at the right thing, for the right reason, at the right time, and in the right way requires serious spiritual growth and self-control. This is part of putting on the new man.

— via Articles from the Knollwood church of Christ, February 2026

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“The Glory Due To His Name”

R.J. Evans

I guess it must have been at least twenty-five years ago that I purchased two books on THE NAMES OF GOD. In reading through them, I discovered how much we can learn about God as He has revealed Himself by various names in Scripture. In the congregation where I preached and served as one of the elders, we had a younger brother who was an excellent Bible student and teacher. (He is now a gospel preacher for whom the church here at Southside provides financial support.) One day I handed him copies of the two books and suggested that he look them over. I told him I believed he should work up a series of lessons on the subject and teach the class. He agreed, and did an outstanding job, and it was a wonderful class (it actually became two parts—two quarters, with thirteen lessons each). Since that time, this brother has taught classes on this subject in various churches.

Again, THE NAMES OF GOD in their original language reveal so much. For example, to better understand God’s character and His loving, redemptive purposes for man, we have some of the following names in Scripture: God (Elohim); Lord (Jehovah); God Almighty (El Shaddai); Most High God (El Elyon); Lord (Adonai); Everlasting God (El Olam); Lord of Hosts (Jehovah Sabbaoth). As you can imagine, a deep search into the meaning and significance of each name is awesome.

In this article, we are not considering the names of God, per se. However, there are “names” in verses of the Bible that are so meaningful as to what or who God is to each of us. With this in mind, let us consider important words (or names, in one sense) that mean so much to all who are children of God. Think of it this way—God is our…

RESTORER. “The Lord your God will bring you back from captivity, and have compassion on you, and gather you again from all the nations where the Lord your God has scattered you” (Deut. 30:3).

HOPE. “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Rom. 15:13).

COMFORT. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort” (2 Cor. 1:3).

HELPER. “So that we may say: The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” (Heb. 13:6).

PROVIDER. “And Abraham called the name of the place, The-Lord-Will-Provide [YHWH Jireh]; as it is said to this day ‘In the Mount of the Lord it shall be provided’” (Gen. 22:14).

REFUGE. “The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble” (Psa. 9:9).

HIDING PLACE. “You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance” (Psa. 32:7).

PEACE. “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (Jn. 14:27).

STRENGTH. “The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusted in Him and I am helped; Therefore my heart greatly rejoices; And with song I will praise Him” (Psa. 28:7).

LOVE. “He who does not love does not know God, for God is love” (1 Jn. 4:8).

FORGIVER. “Who forgives all your iniquities; Who heals all your diseases” (Psa. 103:3).

With this short list of verses of Scripture, we receive a better understanding and get a glimpse of the glory, love, majesty, and power of God. “Give unto the Lord the glory due to His name; Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness” (Psa. 29:2).

— Via bulletin article for the Southside church of Christ in Gonzales, Louisiana, August 27, 2019

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“Just As I Am”

Frank Himmel

The song Just As I Am is a commonly used invitation song. The idea in the song is that we cannot make ourselves right with God on our own; apart from Jesus’ blood we have no hope. That is precisely the New Testament picture (Eph. 2:8-9; Titus 3:5; etc.).

I fear, however, that some folks have an erroneous idea about Jesus saving us “just as we are.” They seem to think that He saves us without any change in our conduct. That is opposite to the New Testament picture.

Jesus’ charge to the apostles was “that repentance for forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in His name to all the nations” (Luke 24:47). Forgiveness is extended to those willing to abandon sinful conduct, not to those who insist on continuing in it.

Paul wrote to the Corinthian Christians,“Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you…” (1 Cor. 6:9-10). He did not say such are some of you, but such were. They changed their conduct in connection with being washed, sanctified, and justified (v. 11).

“Just as I am,” if referring to our own helplessness, is a comforting sentiment. But to suggest it means salvation without repentance is to hold out false hope.

— Via The Beacon, August 4, 2024

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The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

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

Sunday: 9 a.m. Bible Class (except for the last Sunday of the month Song Service) and 10 a.m. Worship Service
Wednesday: 7 p.m. Bible Class

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 3, 2026 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

1) “Putting Away Lying” (Heath Rogers)
2) Jesus Was Tempted, Too (Bryan Gibson)
3) Sword Tips #53 (Joe R. Price)

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“Putting Away Lying”

Heath Rogers

“Therefore, putting away lying, ‘Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,’ for we are members of one another” (Eph. 4:25).

After using the put off/put on illustration to describe the change in behavior that is to be produced by learning Christ (vs. 22-24), Paul proceeds to give several specific examples of such changes. He begins with a prohibition against lying.

“Lying” is translated from the Greek word pseudos which refers to all falsehood (rendered such in some modern translations). This involves telling lies, but it also includes the desire to deceive by telling half-truths and withholding facts demanded for a full disclosure of the truth.

The devil is the father of lies (John 8:44). God is truth. He is the source of truth (John 17:17). God is incapable of lying (Titus 1:2; Heb. 6:18). Such an act would violate His holiness. If we are to be identified as God’s children, and if we are to maintain our fellowship with Him, we must put away lying and falsehood.

Some would have us believe there is a distinction between malicious lies and harmless little “white lies.” The Bible makes no such distinction. “…all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death” (Rev. 21:8). The world abounds with rationalizations for deceit, making it easy to deal carelessly with the truth. We can fall into the trap of telling lies to protect ourselves or spare the feelings of others. We must put off this practice. All lies are sinful, regardless of who benefits from them.

In the place of telling lies, “let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor.” This appears to be a quotation or allusion to Zechariah 8:16, which called for God’s people to repent and treat others in a just and righteous manner. Our Lord came to bear witness to the truth (John 18:37). Part of following Christ is abiding in the truth, speaking the truth, and dealing truthfully with others.

The motivation given in the text for this change in behavior is the impact deception has on other believers – “we are members of one another.” The “one-another” admonitions are common in Paul’s writings. Working together as members of a local church requires effort on our part. Fellowship in the body of Christ is built and maintained, in large part, on trust. We must deal honestly with God’s word, and with one another. Deception undermines this fellowship, while honesty strengthens and protects it.

— Via Articles from the Knollwood church of Christ, February 2026

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Jesus Was Tempted, Too

Bryan Gibson

Immediately after He was baptized by John, “Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.” This series of temptations is recorded in Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; and Luke 4:1-13. Let’s see what we can learn from what happened.

The word of God gives us strength against temptation.

In response to each temptation, Jesus used the words, “it is written,” and then quoted a passage from God’s word. Using the word of God as part of His armor, He was able to “stand against the wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11; see also 1 John 2:14; Psalms 119:9-11).

The devil looks for an opportune time to tempt us.

Satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread, when He was seemingly most vulnerable—after He had fasted for 40 days and 40 nights. When Satan left Jesus, the text says “he departed from Him until an opportune time” (Luke 4:13). Don’t expect anything different when he goes after us.

Resist the devil, and he will flee.

That promise is made in James 4:7, but illustrated in the temptations of Jesus. Jesus resisted Satan at every turn, and Satan left him—maybe not for good, but he did leave.

Man shall not live by bread alone.

That’s how Jesus responded to the temptation to turn stones into bread. There is much more to life than just what sustains us physically. “Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?” (Matthew 6:25). “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33)—that’s what life is really all about. “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).

Use what God has given for the purpose God intends.

Jesus had the power to turn those stones into bread, but to use that power strictly for his own benefit would be a misuse of it. In principle, we face this same temptation every day—to use what God has given us for a different purpose than He intends. Consider this one example: God has given us our bodies, but not to do with as we please (“the body is not for sexual immorality, but for the Lord”—1 Corinthians 6:13).

Never tempt the Lord, or put Him on trial.

Jesus made this point to the devil, after the devil tried to get Him to throw Himself down off the pinnacle of the temple. God has forever proved his care for us by sending His Son to die on the cross (Romans 8:31-32). We don’t have to do things to see whether or not He cares for us. We don’t have to ask as the Israelites once did, “Is the Lord among us or not?” (Exodus 17:7). We’re the ones on trial here, not God.

No offer from Satan is worth losing our soul over.

All the kingdoms of the world and their glory—that’s what Satan offered Jesus, if Jesus would fall down and worship him. A particularly sly approach, because Jesus would ultimately be given dominion over all these kingdoms, just not by the means Satan proposed. He would first have to go the cross. Whatever Satan may offer, it’s not as valuable as our soul. He may even offer us a legitimate end to get us to use the wrong means. Don’t be talked into doing wrong, no matter what Satan may promise.

— via the Weekly Bulletin of the Prattmont church of Christ, December 8, 2024

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

Sword Tips #53

Joe R. Price

“Most assuredly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he shall never see death” (John 8:51).

The words of Jesus are unmistakable; The person who “keeps (his) word” will not experience death. Of course, Jesus is speaking of spiritual life and spiritual death.

We all have an appointment with physical death (Heb. 9:27). You must get ready for the death of your body by keeping the word of Jesus.

Genuine faith obeys Jesus.

In this verse, Jesus requires obedience in order to “never see death.” “He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me” (Jno. 14:21).

If you desire spiritual life, then believe the word of Christ and start keeping it today.

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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 Class (except for the last Sunday of the month Song Service) and 10 a.m. Worship Service
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

April 26, 2026 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

1) Avenues of Deceit (Jerry Fite)
2) Three Requirements When We Pray (From the Book of James) (R.J. Evans)

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Avenues of Deceit

Jerry Fite

Deceit involves acts of representing as true what is false. Since all deceit is based upon lies, it is a tool used by Satan, the “father of lies” (John 8:44). Let us notice some avenues through which deceit approaches us at the bidding of Satan.

Avenue of Appearance

Paul warns us of false apostles who fashion themselves into apostles of Christ and ministers of righteousness (2 Corinthians 11:13-15). In realty they are “deceitful workers” whose end shall be “according to their works.”

They may approach us with a piety that may be expressed in how much they deprive themselves of bodily comforts. They may be severe to the body, but inwardly they are corrupt. Paul warns us that such actions have a “show of wisdom in will-worship and humility, and severity to the body, but are not of any value against the indulgence of the flesh” (Colossians 2:23). In reality, they are fleshly minded though they look like pious humble servants being severe to the body.

Jesus helps us to not be fooled by false appearances. He warns us that false prophets will appear as harmless as sheep. We must constantly look beyond appearances and examine the character of their works (Matthew 7:15-20).

Avenue of Rationalization

Satan allows us to rely on our own prideful thinking to deceive ourselves. Paul warns, “Let no man deceive himself. If any man thinketh he is wise among you in this world, let him become a fool, that he may become wise” (I Corinthians 3:18). Some deceive themselves by thinking they can sow to the flesh and not suffer corruption. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth unto his own flesh shall from the flesh reap corruption…” (Galatians 6:7-8). We may pride ourselves as being religious, but we do not control our tongue. “If any man thinketh himself to be religious, while he bridleth not his tongue but deceiveth his heart, this man’s religion is vain” (James 1:26).
We must never elevate our “think-so’s” above what God actually reveals on any subject.

Avenue of Flattery

False teachers use this method to deceive the innocent. They speak “…great swelling words, showing respect of persons for the sake of advantage” (Jude 16). They may brag on you as they murmur and complain about those who are truly living according to God’s standard. If the hearer is not on guard, he will be caught up in the false teacher’s “smooth and fair speech” as he beguiles the hearts of the innocent (Romans 16:18).

One can arm himself from this approach of deceit by comparing the teacher’s teaching with the doctrine of Christ which can be learned (Romans 16:17, 2 John 9-11).

Avenue of Propaganda

Facts can be twisted in the midst of emotionally charged words which can lead us astray. Assyria’s spokesman brought fear to the hearts of Judah, but he twisted the facts about God. He presented facts such as “the gods not delivering Samaria,” but the fact which he ignored was Jehovah is not “a god,” but the only God (cf. 2 Kings 18:28-35, 19:7, 35-37). We must always look at the truth behind any propaganda.

— Via Glad Tidings, Volume XXXV, No. 21, May 25, 2025

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Three Requirements When We Pray

(From the Book of James)

R.J. Evans

Throughout the Bible, so much is said about prayer. There are numerous examples of men and women who prayed, as well as a number of recorded prayers in Scripture. We are given assurances of the benefits and blessings of the prayers of God’s people. Our Lord taught us how we ought to pray and how we ought not pray. Prayer is truly a wonderful privilege, as well as a command, for all Christians.

In the New Testament, we find that James makes sure that we understand the effectiveness of prayer, and also helps us to realize what God requires when we pray. In fact, James tells us three things about prayer in his inspired epistle. Let’s notice them:

1. He requires FAITH. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting; for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord” (Jas. 1:5-7). Faith is necessary in obeying and serving God. Without it, it is impossible to please Him (Heb. 11:6). There were times when the disciples of Jesus asked Him to increase their faith. Our faith is based upon and rooted in the Word of God (Rom. 10:17). Thus, an unwavering faith in God who has promised to hear and answer our prayers according to His wisdom and will is what we need when we pray. God takes delight in answering His children’s prayers, yet He may hold back. Why? Because of our lack of faith. Remember the time when Jesus was in His home town of Nazareth, but “He did not do mighty works there because of their unbelief” (Matt. 13:58). Let us pray fervently to God, the One who loves us, provides salvation for us, and promises so many blessings for us. Thus, don’t give up—pray in faith and His answer will come—it will be yes or no, or perhaps wait till later.

2. He requires RIGHTEOUSNESS. “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” (Jas. 5:16). When we pray, God looks at our hearts and our lives. In view of the verse just cited, He looks for righteousness. Who are the righteous? Those who have obeyed His gospel and live faithfully according to His will (Rom. 1:16-17; 4:20-22; 6:16-19). When the Apostle Peter was at the house of Cornelius, he stated: “In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him” (Acts 10:34-35). Earlier in James’ letter, Abraham is used as an example of faithful obedient righteousness (2:17-26). The Psalmist said, “For all Your commandments are righteousness” (Psa. 119:172). So in order to be righteous, we must obey the commandments of God. And, again, notice how righteousness and prayers that are heard and answered are linked together: “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers” (1 Pet. 3:12). Thus, it is the fervent prayers of the righteous that avail (accomplish) much.

3. He requires THE RIGHT KIND OF REQUEST. “You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures” (Jas. 4:3). When we pray, God looks at our requests and our motives for making the request. The Apostle John stated, “this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 Jn. 5:14). Thus, if our prayers are not in line with His Word, or are selfish, self-centered requests, they will not be granted.

Indeed, it is a privilege and blessing to approach God in prayer, especially in view of what James tells us concerning what He desires when we pray. We close with these encouraging words: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplications, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Phil. 4:6).

— via the online version of the bulletin for the Southside church of Christ, October 13, 2019
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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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The Gospel Observer

April 19, 2026 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

1) Good Actions are Never Wasted (Doy Moyer)
2) Overcoming Discouragement (R.J. Evans)

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Good Actions are Never Wasted

Doy Moyer

No one wants a good deed to be wasted, right? After all, we want to put in time and effort to do what is right, and we wouldn’t want any of that energy to count for naught.

Here’s the good news. Any action that we engage in that is consistent with Scripture and in accordance with keeping a good conscience will never be wasted. We can know that what we do for the Lord will not be in vain (1 Cor. 15:58).

Paul wrote, “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve” (Col. 3:23-24).

“Whatever we do” includes every act. As we act, we need to strive to be consistent with being servants of Christ. We are to do what we do heartily, to the best of our ability, and not just to please people. It is the Lord Christ whom we serve, and what we do—whatever it is—we do for Him. This is a basic principle by which Christians live. Our service to the Lord, in whatever we do, means that we strive for excellence in all things. “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might” (Eccl. 9:10).

Yet another principle by which we live is that we are to keep our consciences pure. Paul told Timothy, “But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith” (1 Tim. 1:5). Through the revelation of God’s word, Christians may learn to fight the good fight and keep a good conscience. Paul instructed, “This command I entrust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you fight the good fight, keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith” (1 Tim. 1:18-19).

Other passages like Romans 14 and 1 Corinthians 8 show that we are to act in accordance with a good conscience. There are matters that individuals must decide within a context of Scripture and faith, and no one else is to act as their judge. We try to train our consciences according to God’s word and act accordingly.

For at least these reasons, we need to know that any actions in which we engage that are consistent with being servants of the Lord, consistent with Scripture, and done in good conscience from faith are never wasted.

This point is true:

1. Even if no one else knows about it. God knows what we do even when others don’t, and it is not our job to boast about our own actions. If we act just so that others will take notice, then our motives are off. See Matthew 6 for Jesus’ teachings on this. Private actions consistent with Scripture and conscience, when done alone, are still good regardless of who else is aware of them. God is the One we try to please.

2. Even if it has no measurable outcomes by human standards. Whether or not an action is good is not based on that action having measurable outcomes. A good action may have little immediate effect on a situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s not good. That doesn’t change the nature of the action, for “your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you” (Matt. 6:4). This coincides with the first point because we might do something in good conscience, not in violation of Scripture, and yet no one see any particular effects from it. That’s okay. We don’t need to see such effects if our primary concern is pleasing the Lord. Prayer, for example, is still good even when we don’t see an immediate effect, and even if God’s answer is, “No.” The outcome doesn’t change the nature of the good act.

3. Even if others disagree. Disagreement is not the measure of whether something is right, nor can the disagreement of others be what determines our consciences. Romans 14 demonstrates this well. If we act in faith, in all good conscience, and consistent with Scriptural teaching, then someone disagreeing with our application has no bearing on whether or not the action is good. Now it is possible that we have decided something is good when it’s not really consistent with God’s word, and we need to be careful not to justify ourselves. This is one reason why a constant study of Scripture is needed.

Keep doing good because good actions will never be a waste of time. As Paul by the Spirit wrote, “Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith” (Gal. 6:9-10).

— Via Bulletin Articles from the Vestavia church of Christ, November 6, 2016

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Overcoming Discouragement

R.J. Evans

In Psalm 77:4, Asaph, a musician, stated, “You hold my eyelids open; I am so troubled that I cannot speak.” When we are depressed and feeling sad, the Lord should still be “our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble” (Psa. 46:1).

Experiencing discouragement often increases as we begin to age. As we get older we start having health issues and also begin to realize we have limitations on what we are capable of doing. Solomon described what happens during the aging process in poetic language, but is so understandable by anyone experiencing it (Ecclesiastes 12:2-7). We may have difficulty adjusting to the changes that occur during the sunset years, but they happen to everyone who lives long enough.

The feeling of being rejected can also bring on discouragement. After experiencing a great victory on Mount Carmel (1 Kgs. 18), the prophet Elijah had to run for his life in order to escape wicked Jezebel’s plan to have him killed (1 Kgs. 19:3). While out in the wilderness, sitting under a juniper tree, Elijah said to God, “It is enough! Now, Lord, take my life for I am no better than my fathers” (1 Kgs. 19:4). Later on he told God why he experienced the feelings of rejection— “the children of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars, and killed Your prophets with the sword. I alone am left; and they seek to take my life” (1 Kgs. 19:14).

But there is always a bright side when others have forsaken us. For one thing, the situation may not be as bad as it seems. The Lord told Elijah to get up and go to work—there were kings (Jehu and Hazael) he needed to anoint, and also he needed to anoint a prophet (Elisha) who would be his successor (1 Kgs. 19:16-17). Then the Lord corrected his feelings of thinking he was all alone— “Yet I have reserved seven thousand in Israel, all whose knees have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him” (1 Kgs. 19:18).

When all others have truly forsaken us, we can be encouraged by the Apostle Paul. Notice what he told Timothy: “At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me…And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom” (2 Tim. 4:16-18).

The Psalmist, David, said, “When my father and my mother forsake me, Then the Lord will take care of me” (Psa. 27:10). As the Hebrew writer has assured us— “For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’” (Heb. 13:5). Thus, when we go through times of discouragement, we need to give heed to the instructions and promises given to those who are doing God’s will: “Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!” (Psa. 27:14).

Therefore we need to pray to God and trust in Him, His promises, and His providence during times of discouragement. Again, the words of the Psalmist come to mind when we are going through times of discouragement: “God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble” (Psa. 46:1).

— From the Southside church of Christ in Gonzales, Louisiana, for March 25, 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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The Gospel Observer

April 12, 2026 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

1) Salvation Belongs to the Lord (Colby Junkin)
2) The Parable of the Best Seats (Mike Johnson)

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Salvation Belongs to the Lord

Colby Junkin

The beauty of the Psalms is conveyed in a variety of ways. The use of Hebrew poetry and its various parallelisms give depth to even the shortest of the Psalms. The imagery and figures that are contained throughout the Psalms paint a picture of salvation, love, security, and great sadness for sin. The Psalms offer to us much more than simple memorization of certain verses, but rather in their application we find the pathway to a stronger and more reliable spiritual life with God. Our knowledge of the Psalms will indeed make us into better Christians suited against the battles of this life.

The Psalmist David wrote many of his psalms in the midst of tremendous trials throughout his life. David wrote one of the greatest individual laments, when he was confronted with the sin he had committed with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12). When a person reads Psalms 51, he is moved by David’s devotion to make things right with his God. David serves as a beacon of light in his attitude toward sin and its consequences. David also serves as a tremendous influence for those enduring the trials of this life. One such example is found in the Psalms 3. David had been driven from Jerusalem by his son, Absalom, and in the midst of those dark days, David called out to his God for deliverance and security.

The Psalm begins with describing the historical rise of David’s adversaries—“O Lord, how my adversaries have increased! Many are rising up against me” (Psalms 3:1). Absalom had taken counsel from Hushai concerning the pursuit of David. He instructed Absalom to assemble all the men of Israel, from Dan to Beersheba, to march against David and his mighty men (2 Samuel 17:8-12). The number of Israel’s men was said to have been “as the sand that is by the sea in abundance” (2 Samuel 17:12). When David is informed of this coming battle, he goes to his Father in prayer.

David’s faith in the deliverance of God was unwavering. While men were proclaiming, “there is no deliverance for him in God” (Psalms 3:2), David trusted in God! David did not allow the appearance of these adversaries to distract him from faithfully trusting in God. David wrote, “I was crying to the Lord with my voice, and He answered me from His holy mountain” (Psalms 3:4). The Lord heard the cries of His righteous one and immediately went to action on David’s behalf. The calm that must have rushed over David’s heart, when he knew God was on his side, is directly upheld by David’s restful night of sleep—“I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the Lord sustains me” (Psalms 3:5).

When the day of the battle arrived David’s mighty men were victorious over Absalom’s army (2 Samuel 18:7-8). David’s trust in the Lord’s deliverance was once again proven absolute. As David cried out, “Arise, O Lord; save me, O my God!” (Psalms 3:7a). The Lord heard David’s cry and delivered him. In conclusion, David wrote, “Salvation belongs to the Lord, Your blessing be upon Your people!” (Psalms 3:8).

The example of David contained in this psalm should motivate us to a deeper trust in God’s deliverance. While we may struggle to understand the complexities of our trials and the pain that we must endure at times. May these never distract us from manifesting our total trust in God’s ability to deliver us from the greatest of harms. David’s enemies arose on every side, but this did not deter his devotion to his God. May God bless our efforts to imitate David and his trust in God throughout our lives!

— Via the Weekly Bulletin of the Prattmont church of Christ, June 23, 2024

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The Parable of the Best Seats

Mike Johnson

“When you are invited by anyone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in the best place, lest one more honorable than you be invited by him; and he who invited you and him come and say to you, ‘Give place to this man,’ and then you begin with shame to take the lowest place. But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 14:8-11).

Jesus taught on many subjects during the time He lived on earth. One topic, which He spoke on a great deal, was humility. The proud and arrogant Pharisees of His day needed teaching on this subject, and He addresses this issue in the parable above. The principles taught here are also desperately needed in our time.

The Occasion

Luke 14:1 tells us that Jesus had come to the house of one of the chief Pharisees on the Sabbath day to eat. The same verse says they watched Him while He was there. It seems they were trying to find some fault with Jesus so they could criticize Him, hurting Him in the people’s eyes. We read further that there was a man present with dropsy. So Jesus asked the lawyers and the Pharisees, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath day?” He then healed the man and defended what He did.

Verse seven says,“So He told a parable to those who were invited, when He noted how they chose the best places . . .” To begin with, Jesus does refer to Luke 14:8-11 as a parable. It is different (in form) from some of the other parables, but Jesus does refer to it as that. Also, we see that the parable came about when Jesus noticed how the people at the feast “chose the best places.” The NASB renders it, “When He noticed how they had been picking out the places of honor at the tables . . .” Neil R Lightfoot, in his book Lessons from the Parables, points out some facts about the ancient practices. He said:

It is well-known that the ancients in Greek and Roman times ate their meals in reclining positions on low couches drawn up against low tables. Ordinarily, the tables were U-shaped, which allowed the servants to serve food about the table with ease. At the head of the table was placed the honored guests . . . On his right and left were placed the next most honored guests, and the others were seated around the table in descending order of importance (Page 95).

Further, we learn that the hosts did not always announce the exact time of the meal, so the Pharisees would arrive at various times and try to time their arrival to make a grand entrance and receive the chief seats.

The Parable

Jesus had watched the pompous people vie for position at the feast. Because of their pride and arrogance, they would thrust themselves to the forefront by seeking to occupy the chief seats. Seeing this, Jesus instructed them on how to act appropriately. He said they were not to immediately sit at the most important place when invited to a wedding feast. Following this course of action might cause embarrassment as the host could ask them to move and go to a lower position when a guest with more honor arrives. The proper response would be for the individual invited to the feast to take the lowest seat. If the host chose to do so, he could ask him to move to a higher position.

When the host asked the guest to advance, those present would look at him favorably. Therefore, it would be better to start low and then be asked to go higher than to start high and be asked to go lower.

Application

Jesus presented His main point in verse 11 when he said, “For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Today, this same principle is true. From time to time, we see religious people praising others for their humility. Even many non-religious people recognize the value of humility and its desirability over pride and arrogance. In that sense, those who are humble are often exalted. Another explanation, perhaps the primary way Jesus had in mind, would be from a spiritual standpoint. God views those humble here on earth positively and will ultimately exalt them. They will eventually receive eternal salvation, and thus God will exalt them.

The Bible warns us that we must be humble. Ephesians 4:2 informs us we are to walk with all lowliness and gentleness. 1 Peter 5:5 reveals that we are to “be clothed with humility, for ‘God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.’” In Matthew 18:3, Jesus taught where true greatness lay when He revealed, “Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”

Jesus frequently taught the necessity of humility. He was humble himself, and He expects us to follow His steps.

— Via Seeking Things Above

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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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The Gospel Observer

April 5, 2026 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

1) Far From Home: The Seventy Years of Captivity (Jon W. Quinn)
2) “Only You Can Satisfy” (Bryan Gibson)

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Far From Home

The Seventy Years of Captivity

Jon W. Quinn

The people of Judah had fallen from grace. They had rebelled against the principles upon which their nation had been founded and rejected any attempt by those sent to her to call her back. As promised, God withdrew His protection from her. He had warned that if His people became faithless that He would employ a pagan power to conquer them and lead them back into captivity. He had led them from Egyptian bondage 800 years before, and now, because of their infidelity, He would allow them to return to bondage; this time in Babylon.

They had refused to believe it could ever happen to them. They found their own false prophets to tell them that everything was fine. They ridiculed Jeremiah and others who warned of the devastation to come. They were arrogant. The Lord, through Jeremiah, put it this way; “Behold, I will send and take all the families of the north…and I will send Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon…against this land and against its inhabitants…and this whole land shall be a desolation and a horror, and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years” (Jeremiah 25:9-11).

The prophesied desolation began with the fall of Jerusalem to Babylon in 606 B.C. with the first deportation of the best of the land into slavery on foreign soil. Further deportations followed and finally Jerusalem was destroyed, just as the prophets had warned. It was seventy years in exile before the repentant people of God were permitted to go back home and begin to rebuild their wrecked cities. It would be Darius, king of the Persians, who allowed the rebuilding to begin in 536 B.C.

Fulfilled prophecy deepens our respect for our God’s power and wisdom. After Jeremiah’s prophecy began to be fulfilled by the first deportation into slavery, Jeremiah wrote a letter to those now serving in Babylon. These were sad people who had lost everything; their homes, freedom and in many cases were separated from their families. They were brought to live in a strange land with strange customs and language. Jeremiah’s instructions to these exiles seem pertinent to God’s people today as we are also exiles in a manner of speaking.

God’s Advice to the Exile

“Now these are the words of the letter which Jeremiah the prophet sent from Jerusalem to…all the people whom Nebuchadnezzar had taken into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon (Jeremiah 29:1). The Christian today is also an exile. The New Testament tells us that men and women of faith have always looked at this world as only a temporary home. We are invited to approach life with the same attitude as Abraham who “died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth” (see Hebrews 11:13-16). Our stay here is short, relatively speaking. It makes little sense to completely focus on the things of this world when the time we spend here is so fleeting compared to the vastness of eternity (1 Peter 1:17; 2:11).

Accepting Life as it Comes

“Build houses and live in them; and plant gardens, and eat their produce…take wives and become fathers of sons and daughters…seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you unto exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf…” (Jeremiah 29:4-7). Life goes on. Jeremiah told the exiles of his day to live as normal lives as possible. He also told them to pray for the welfare of the city which had taken them captive, much in the same way as Jesus tells us to pray for our enemies as well as for our government. The New Testament tells us to let our lives be examples to others: “Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may on account of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation” (1 Peter 2:12).

Patience is a Virtue

“For thus saith the LORD, ‘When seventy years have been completed for Babylon, I will visit you and fulfill My good word to you, to bring you back to this place” (Jeremiah 29:10). God had the timing all worked out. I am sure that seventy years seemed like a long time for the people, but seventy years is what had been decreed. There would be no short cuts. God knew how long and how much.

He also knows how long our exile here will last. The Son of God will one day appear in the clouds to take the exiles home (Acts 17:31). We are encouraged to be patient and wait for that day; to never give up because the day of our homecoming has already been decided.

Trust God in Everything

“For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and hope. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me and I will listen to you…and I will bring you back to the place from where I sent you into exile” (Jeremiah 29:11-14). Through all of life’s hardships there is one absolutely secure place wherein we can place our hope and future. God assured the exiles of Jeremiah’s day that He loved them. Even in their bleakest hour God was there and influencing events toward their proper conclusion. He is still there today. His plans for our future fill us with hope; “…and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls” (1 Peter 1:8,9).

Beware of False Hopes

“For thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, ‘Do not let your prophets who are in your midst and your diviners deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams which they dream. For they prophesy falsely to you in My name; I have not sent them…” (Jeremiah 29:8,9). It was something people really wanted to believe. The false prophets were telling them that they would be going home soon; it would not take seventy years. They were insisting that captivity would soon be over and there were probably many ears happy to hear the news. But it wasn’t true!

Today we have the modern counterparts of these false prophets. False promises are made by both religious and secular leaders contrary to the word of God in the Scriptures. Do not allow yourself to trust in a lie. The truth of God is better than the lies of men. It is our hope and is found in Jesus!

— Via The Bradley Banner, April 24, 2014 (published by the Bradley church of Christ)

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“Only You Can Satisfy”

Bryan Gibson

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied” (Matthew 5:6, NAS).

“Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you shall be satisfied…woe to you who are full now, for you shall be hungry” (Luke 6:21, 25, ESV).

“For He satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things” (Psalms 107:9, ESV).

“As for me, I will see Your face in righteousness; I shall be satisfied when I awake in Your likeness” (Psalms 17:15, NKJ).

“O satisfy us in the morning with Your lovingkindness, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days” (Psalms 90:14, NAS).

“And the LORD will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail” (Isaiah 58:11, ESV).

“He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income…” (Ecclesiastes 5:10, NAS).

“All the toil of man is for his mouth, yet his appetite is not satisfied” (Ecclesiastes 6:7, ESV).

And so, as the song says…

“I want you more than gold or silver, only You can satisfy. You alone are the real joy giver, and the apple of my eye. You alone are my strength, my shield; to You alone may my spirit yield. You alone are my heart’s desire and I long to worship You” (As the Deer, Martin Nystrom).

— Via Weekly Bulletin of the Prattmont church of Christ, July 14, 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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The Messiah’s Humiliation

“Put On Love, Which is the Bond of Perfection”

Psalm 119:9-16

Matthew 4:4

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Building a Good Name

“You Seek Me…Because You Ate of the Loaves and Were Filled”

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Living As Christians Should Live

The New Man’s Speech

Psalm 119:1-8

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Consider Your End

Sword Tips #148

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

The New Man’s Anger

“The Glory Due To His Name”

“Just As I Am”

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

“Putting Away Lying”

Jesus Was Tempted, Too

Sword Tips #53

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Avenues of Deceit

Avenue of Appearance

Avenue of Rationalization

Avenue of Flattery

Avenue of Propaganda

Three Requirements When We Pray

(From the Book of James)

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Good Actions are Never Wasted

Overcoming Discouragement

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Salvation Belongs to the Lord

The Parable of the Best Seats

The Occasion

The Parable

Application

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Far From Home

The Seventy Years of Captivity

God’s Advice to the Exile

Accepting Life as it Comes

Patience is a Virtue

Trust God in Everything

Beware of False Hopes

“Only You Can Satisfy”

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

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