Category: Uncategorized (Page 50 of 51)

The Gospel Observer

September 6, 2015 / 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 Lord is My Helper (Billy Boyd)
2) Faith Building: The Walls of Jericho (R.J. Evans)
3) A Different Point of View! (Dan Gulley)
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The Lord is My Helper

by Billy Boyd

A little girl, when asked to repeat the 23rd Psalm, said, “The Lord is my shepherd, that’s all I want.” She may have been a little confused about the actual wording, but she expressed a truth that should be the property of every Christian.

There is no blessing so valuable as the ability to lean upon the sufficiency of God, to find in Him all that we want. The firm basis of such trust was brought to Paul’s attention when the Lord said to him, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 11:9).

Consider the unsearchable riches which one possesses when the Lord is his helper.

1. There is a feeling of security that transcends social and financial security. The child of God can be content in all circumstances of life. “I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therein to be content” (Phil. 4:11).

2. There is a peace that passeth understanding (Phil. 4:7) and floods the Christian’s life with joy that is unspeakable (I Pet. 1:8). This peace is greater than all the treasures earth can yield.

3. There is a freedom from fear of all types. “So that with good courage we say, The Lord is my helper; I will not fear: What shall man do unto me?” (Heb. 13:6). Fear of bodily harm and even of death itself is dissipated when we walk with the Lord. “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil; for thou art with me” (Ps. 23:4).

4. There is a crown of life that glitters through eternity. “Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give to me at that day; and not to me only, but also to all them that have loved his appearing” (II TIM. 4:8).

In addition to these wonderful blessings, the Lord promises us what we need physically. Surely, when the Lord is our helper, there can be no want.

— Via The Beacon, July 10, 2012
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Faith Building:

The Walls of Jericho

R.J. Evans

In Joshua 6:1-6, the Israelites were instructed by the Lord to march around the city of Jericho once each day for six days. The priests were told to bear seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the ark, and on the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times and when the priests blew the trumpets, all the people were to shout and the wall of the city would fall down flat. The remainder of chapter 6 tells of their obedience to God’s instructions, the wall falling, and the city being destroyed.

Marching around a city thirteen times in seven days, blowing trumpets and making a great shout — who ever heard of such a thing? The wall was of such considerable size that houses were built upon it (Josh. 2:15). How safe the inhabitants of Jericho must have felt. How easy it would have been for the soldiers and commanders on the walls to laugh and ridicule the marchers as they encompassed the city. But suddenly on the seventh day, there was an incredible event — the walls fell! (v. 20).

Now how did the walls fall? Was this some common military procedure that had been used successfully in the past? Absolutely not! “By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days” (Heb. 11:30). Yes, it took great faith to carry out such an unusual command. “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Cor. 5:7). It took faith in “things not seen” — “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Heb. 11:1). “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Rom. 10:17).

But there are skeptics who laugh and mock at the events recorded in Joshua 6. They say it is absurd to believe that the walls of Jericho fell down after the Israelites marched around them. However, let us consider the following portion of information taken from HALLEY’S BIBLE HANDBOOK, New Revised Edition, pp. 159-161: “Dr. John Garstang, director of the British School of Archaeology in Jerusalem and of the Department of Antiquities of the Palestine Government, excavated the ruins of Jericho in 1926-36. He found pottery and scarab evidence that the city had been destroyed about 1400 B.C., coinciding with Joshua’s date, and, in a number of details, dug up evidence confirming the Biblical account in a most remarkable way. ‘the wall fell down flat’ (20). Dr. Garstang found that the wall did actually ‘fall down flat.’”

There are many lessons learned from Jericho: (1) We learn that God’s ways are not our ways (Isa. 55:8). Man would have planned some scheme to allow a few to enter the city and open the gates or build mounds, use sling shots to pick the soldiers off the wall, use ladders, etc. (2) We learn the meaning of grace. “And the Lord said to Joshua: ‘See! I have given Jericho into you hand, its king, and the mighty men of valor’” (Josh. 6:2). Yes, it was a gift, but it involved active obedience. The same is true today — salvation is a gift from God (Rom. 6:23; Eph. 2:8), yet there are certain conditions that must be met (Matt. 7:21; Jn. 6:29; Mk. 16:16; Lk. 13:3, 5; Acts 2:38; Eph. 2:10; Heb. 5:9). (3) We learn the meaning of obedient faith (Heb. 11; Jas. 2:24). (4) We learn that God’s way will work no matter how foolish (in man’s eyes) it may seem (1 Cor. 1:18-31).

The Apostle Paul told the Romans that “whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope” (Rom. 15:4). The Israelites placed their faith and trust in God when they marched around the city of Jericho. We place our faith and trust in God when we are baptized for the remission of our sins (Mk. 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; 1 Pet. 3:21). When we faithfully obey the Lord we can hope for and enjoy the blessings and rewards He has promised (Matt. 6:33; Rev. 2:10).

Again, we emphasize — “By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days” (Heb. 11:30).

— Via the bulletin of the Southside church of Christ in Gonzales, Louisiana, for April 6, 2014
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A Different Point of View!

Dan Gulley

Mark 2:1-5 tells about the unorthodox efforts of four unnamed heroes who used faith and works to get a hurting friend to Jesus. Hearing that Jesus was in a house in Capernaum, four men sought to bring a paralytic to Jesus on a bed. Finding the house full of people and their way to Jesus blocked, they uncovered the roof where He was. So when they had broken through, they let down the bed on which the paralytic was lying. When Jesus saw their faith He said to the paralytic, Son, your sins are forgiven you.’”

This incident reminds us that faith brings a different point of view in getting lost people to Jesus. Four men who believed Jesus could make a profound difference in the life of their paralyzed friend refused to give up when they found the way to Jesus crowded and impossible to pass. What to do? Faithless, negative thinking would have said nothing could be done and there were simply too many obstacles. But one of them lifted his eyes and expressed a different point of view: “We can get on top of the house, tear the roof off and lower him down to Jesus.” Faith helped them have a different point of view! As a result the paralyzed man went home with a newly healed body and a freshly cleansed soul.

Many Christians could use a different point of view. The devil has convinced some in the church that our job as Christians is to come, sit and listen. But the proper evangelistic mentality is summed up in the words of Acts 5:20 – “Go … stand … speak.” Some insist nobody they know is interested in God, but Jesus calls us to a different point of view. He says “the harvest truly is plentiful” and “lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest” (Matthew 9:37, John 4:35). Could it be many people are being kept from getting to Jesus because negative, faithless thinking is keeping us from getting to them? Faith can help us uncover the roof and see past what we alone can do to what we can do with God’s help. Has faith changed your point of view?

— Via The Beacon, September 9, 2014
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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 Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent of sins (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).
4) Confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21)
6) Continue in the faith; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
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Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA 31501
Sunday services: 9:00 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 5 PM (worship)
Wednesday: 7 PM (Bible class)
evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/go (older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/audioser.html (audio sermons)

The Gospel Observer

August 30, 2015 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

1) “For Now We See in a Mirror Dimly” (Tom Edwards)
2) Design and the Designer (Greg Gwin)
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“For Now We See in a Mirror Dimly”

Tom Edwards

In writing in the time prior to the completed New Testament, Paul declares, “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known” (1 Cor. 13:12).

Though some individuals might interpret this to indicate that one can never see all things clearly while here on earth, but only in heaven, yet is that what this passage is really saying?

In the days that Paul wrote this, mirrors were not like what we are familiar with today. Rather, they were merely a polished metal that would dimly reflect an image.

Going back many centuries before Paul’s time, those mirrors mentioned in Exodus 38:8, for example, had been made of bronze. And in this passage, women had been donating theirs to be used in making the laver, which would be for washing by the priests, between the tent of meeting and the altar (Exod. 30:18).

According to the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge, “The first mirrors known among men were the clear fountain and unruffled lake. The first artificial ones were made of polished brass, afterwards of steel, and when luxury increased, of silver; but at a very early period, they were made of a mixed metal, particularly of tin and copper, the best of which, as Pliny informs us, were formerly manufactured at Brundusium” (which is now known as Brindisi, a natural seaport in the “heel” of southeast Italy).

In Job 37:18, Elihu questions Job: “Can you, with Him, spread out the skies, strong as a molten mirror?” Or, as some other versions render this last part, “…hard as a mirror of cast bronze” (NIV), “…strong as a cast metal mirror” (NKJV), and “…hard as polished metal” (GNB).

And so Paul implies in 1 Corinthians 13:12 that having only a partial or incomplete revelation from God is like seeing an image only dimly, instead of getting the complete, clear picture. But when God’s divinely inspired word would be given in its entirety, then it would be as plain as seeing “face to face,” which is the contrasting phrase Paul uses to seeing “in a mirror dimly.” In addition, Paul also likens the mirror to knowing only “in part,” and seeing “face to face” is paralleled to knowing “fully.”

So let us note, too, that this seeing “face to face” or knowing “fully” was to happen here on earth, and attained through the complete knowledge of God’s word, which is recorded in the New Testament.

This can be compared to Ephesians 4:11-13, where Paul states: “And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fulness of Christ.”

Again, some folks would view this as being able to be fulfilled only in heaven where everyone will be perfectly mature and in perfect unity. But look what Paul goes on to say in the very next verse as to the purpose for why these men were given to help the church grow: “As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming” (v. 14).

So if that maturity and unity can be attained only in heaven, then what are those men doing there, in that beautiful place of God’s abode, who are given to trickery, craftiness, and deceitful scheming to lead folks away from the truth by every wind of false doctrine? That most definitely won’t be going on in heaven, so it must be something taking place while here on earth; and where we, therefore, see the need to grow in the knowledge of God’s word so that we might remain on that right path and not be led astray from it.

We noted above that one of the purposes for the saints being equipped for the work of service and built up in the body of Christ is that each would become a “mature man”; and, of course, it is through the knowledge of the Scriptures that that is possible. In Hebrews 5:12-14, the Hebrew writer reproves his readership for failing to have acquired a good knowledge of “the word of righteousness.” Here, he also indicates that having attained that knowledge would not have been an impossibility for them. For he says, “For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is not accustomed to the word of righteousness, for he is an infant.” And now notice what he goes on to say, in defining what a “mature” Christian really is: “But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil” (Heb. 5:14) — and that discernment comes through a knowledge of God’s word. Yes, attaining to that maturity, that discernment, is to be true of each of us while here on earth.

In the completed New Testament, we today have the “perfect law of liberty” (Jms. 1:15), “everything pertaining to life and godliness” (2 Pet. 1:3), and “so that the man of God may be adequate [perfect, KJV], equipped [furnished completely, ASV] for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:17).

So the “perfect” of 1 Corinthians 13:10 is the New Testament in its entirety that has been “once for all handed down to the saints” (Jude 1:3). And with that, man is no longer limited to just a dim, dark, or partial view; but can now see as clearly as viewing someone face to face. As Paul declares, “For we know in part and we prophesy in part; but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away” (1 Cor. 13:9,10).

Though some believe the “perfect” to be referring to Christ, the perfect is actually the totality of the “in part” (KJV) or the “partial” (NASB) of the same verse. In other words, when the complete revelation would be given, the miraculous gifts (which had been revealing the word “in part” or partially at a time) would cease, as Paul also speaks of in 1 Corinthians 13:8: “Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away.” Prophecy, tongues, and the word of knowledge were just three of the miraculous gifts; but the ceasing of them would also be true of the other gifts as well.

Miraculous gifts were for the church in its infancy. They were greatly needed then. For man was without the completed New Testament to turn to. Therefore, six of those nine spiritual gifts, which the Holy Spirit had given as He willed (1 Cor. 12:11), provided them with the knowledge of God’s word to grow thereby, which were “the word of wisdom,” “the word of knowledge,” “prophecy,” “distinguishing of spirits,” “various kinds of tongues,” and the “interpretation of tongues” (1 Cor. 12:8-10). And, in this same passage, we also read of the three other spiritual gifts that had been given to confirm by miraculous signs those messages from God (cf. Mark 16:20; Heb. 2:3,4), which were “faith” (a miraculous kind), “gifts of healing,” and “the effecting of miracles.”

And we need to also point out that it was not the gifts in themselves that produced spiritual maturity — as evidenced by the Corinthians who abounded in miraculous gifts (1 Cor. 1:7), but were still “infants in Christ,” “fleshly,” and characterized with “jealousy” and “strife” (1 Cor. 3:1-3). Paul’s letter to them (1 Corinthians) makes mention of many spiritual problems the Corinthians had that he strives to correct them of.

So what people need today is simply God’s truth as found in the gospel. For, as we saw, it contains “everything pertaining to life and godliness” by which we may be spiritually mature (2 Pet. 1:3) and built up in the faith (cf. Acts 20:32).

Paul also shows that after the miraculous gifts would have ceased, faith, hope, and love would still continue (1 Cor. 13:13). This, however, conflicts with the wrong belief that many have today that the miraculous gifts are to continue throughout time. For if that be the case, then faith and hope will have to also be continuing in heaven. “…but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it” (Rom. 8:24,25). And “…faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not see” (Heb. 11:1). We now hope for heaven and have faith that it is; but once there, what will happen to that hope and faith?

So now with the completed revelation of the gospel, we can see as if “face to face” — rather than merely a dim reflection on a polished piece of metal. May we each, therefore, continue to look into God’s illuminating word that we may clearly see those things He wants us to know; and faithfully respond to that which He would have us to do.
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Design and the Designer

Greg Gwin

The Journal of the American Medical Association give this interesting report: “The hummingbird is the smallest bird on earth — some species weigh no more than a dime. It has the highest rate of metabolism (at rest, about 50 times faster than man’s) and thus must consume enormous amounts of nectar to avoid starvation. Not adapted for night feeding, it must stretch its food stores from dusk to dawn. To accomplish this, nature has equipped the hummingbird with a unique energy-saving design: the ability to hibernate overnight. During the night, the hummingbird’s metabolic rate is only one-fifteenth as rapid as in the daytime, and its body temperature drops to that of the surrounding air. The bird becomes torpid, scarcely able to move. When it does stir, it moves as though congealed. By daybreak, the hummingbird’s body spontaneously resumes its normal temperature and high metabolic rate, ready once again to dart off in search of food.”

The physical world is literally full of amazing examples of design which the atheist and evolutionist cannot explain. The simple case of the hummingbird is a case in point. Just how did this incredible little creature develop its unique characteristics which allow it to function so well in this world? Could this have happened by chance? And if it came about by gradual evolution, how did the hummingbird survive over millions of years while this awesome metabolic regulator was evolving? This one simple example is sufficient to illustrate the overwhelming difficulties of the theory of evolution.

What we’re saying here is that when we see obvious design in anything — a car, a house, or a hummingbird — that design necessarily implies that there is a designer. In the case of the hummingbird (and all the rest of physical nature) the designer is Almighty God. “For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God” (Heb. 3:4).

— Via The Beacon, July 21, 2015
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The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

The Gospel Observer

August 23, 2015 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

1) Should a Christian Gamble? (R.J. Evans)
2) Historical & Literal (Cougan Collins)
3) The Dreaded Task (Richard Massey)
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Should a Christian Gamble?

R.J. Evans

In 1931, the state of Nevada legalized most forms of gambling. The city of Las Vegas, in particular, became the center of gambling in the U.S. Over the course of time, it has been referred to as “Sin City,” which is not surprising. Now, the city has developed a marketing catchphrase — “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.” Need I say more?

Since 1931, many forms of gambling have become a thriving “vice” in America, especially casinos. At present, Nevada and Louisiana are the only states where casino-style gambling is legal statewide. In other states, casino-style gambling is restricted to certain small geographic areas like Atlantic City, New Jersey, the Mississippi gulf coast, or the American Indian reservations.

I have never been to a gambling casino (and I have no desire to go to one), but I have seen enough TV commercials to get an idea of what they are like. I find it interesting what they use to lure people in — the bright lights, the glitter, entertainment, prizes, and especially the food. The buffet-style food is a big draw. The commercials displaying colorful scenes of appealing foods give evidence of the fact that they know they can get to people’s wallets or pocketbooks through their stomachs. In these establishments, it is as if the average person is playing against a “stacked deck.” The “odds” are always in the casino’s favor. Games of chance are like that — if that were not so, casinos would lose so much money they would have to go out of business. The gambling patrons win just enough to whet their appetite to keep coming back — it is always “wait till the next time — I’m going to hit it big!” The sad part is that a good percentage of these folks are already having financial difficulties.

At this point, we raise the question of our title: Should a Christian gamble? To gamble is “to play games of chance for money or some other stake; to bet on an uncertain outcome.” Some reason that since the word gamble is not specifically mentioned in the Bible, then it must be okay. Of course, there are other terms not specifically mentioned in Scripture, but are still in violation of what the Bible teaches. Words such as “rape,” “abortion,” or “suicide” would come under the category of what is considered wrong, based upon Bible teachings and principles.

In this article, let us observe some biblical principles that are violated when someone gambles, what it can lead to, and why it is a sinful vice. Consider the following:

1. Gambling destroys the incentive to work. (Gen. 2:15; 3:19; Eph. 4:20; 2 Thes. 3:10; Acts 20:34-35)

2. Gambling is unjust gain. (Prov. 28:6-8; Ezek. 22:12-13)

3. Gambling is a form of covetousness. (Eph. 5:3; Jer. 22:13; Hab. 2:6)

4. A gambler is greedy and becomes a lover of money. (1 Tim. 6:5-10; Col. 3:5)

5. Gambling breaks the second greatest commandment. (Matt. 22:37-40; Rom. 13:10)

6. Gambling violates the “golden rule.” (Matt. 7:12)

7. A gambler robs his family. (Eph. 4:28; 1 Tim. 5:8)

8. A gambler destroys his influence for good. (Matt. 5:13-16)

9. Gambling is a form of evil. (1 Thes. 5:22)

10. Gambling is addictive. (1 Cor. 6:12-13)

Based upon the biblical teachings mentioned above, Christians need to stand firmly against all forms of gambling.

— Via bulletin for the Southside church of Christ (8/16/15), Gonzales, Louisiana
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Historical & Literal

Cougan Collins

Those who attack the authenticity of what the Bible says about creation will say that Genesis 1-11 is mythology. In other words, they say it did not really happen and it is nothing more than a fairy tale. They understand if they can convince people that it is mythology, they can destroy the credibility of the Bible and promote their man-made teaching of evolution with its billions of years.

Let’s see what the Bible says. In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus quotes from Genesis 1 & 2 as being true. In John 8:44, Jesus called Satan the “father of lies” referring back to Genesis 3:4. In Matthew 23:35 Jesus spoke of Abel in Genesis 4:2-10 as a historical person. In Matthew 24:37-38, Jesus spoke of the Flood of Noah in Genesis 6-9 as a historical event. If Genesis 1-11 is a myth, then Jesus was mistaken in all of these instances.

In 1 Corinthians 11:8,12, Paul states that man was created first, then woman just as Genesis 2:18-23 states. In 1 Timothy 2:13, Paul called Adam & Eve by name, and in Romans 5:14 he says “death reigned from Adam to Moses.” In 1 Corinthians 15:45, Paul says, “The first man Adam became a living being.” If Adam was only a mythological character, then everything Paul said is false. In 2 Corinthians 11:3, Paul says, “But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted.” I am afraid many minds have been corrupted by believing that Genesis 1-11 is nothing but a fairy tale.

The New Testament shows that the first 11 chapters of Genesis are historical and literal. In fact, there are more than 100 references in the New Testament that refer back to the first eleven chapters of Genesis. Besides this internal evidence, there is ample proof of the global flood as described by the Bible because over 100 cultures historically record a global flood. Also, the fossil record proves that every mountain on earth was covered by water. For example, marine fossils have been found high in the Himalayas, the world’s tallest mountain range. When one begins to examine the internal and external evidence of Genesis 1-11, one will be overwhelmed with proof that the Bible is true and not mythology.

— Via The Beacon, October 28, 2014
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The Dreaded Task

Richard Massey

“I found the task that I had dreaded so,
Was not so difficult when once begun;
It was the dread itself that was the foe,
And dread once conquered means a victory won”
(The Dreaded Task by Margaret E. Brown).

How true is the above statement. The first time brethren asked me to teach a Bible class (it was fifth and sixth graders), I recoiled — grimly dreading even the thought. I guess the elders were hard pressed for teachers, so my arm was twisted until I finally relented. Once I got started, however, the task became such a joy that I did not want to stop. I even enjoyed decorating the classroom with my own homemade posters. I have been teaching ever since, and enjoying every minute.

It is the “getting started” that seems to be the real hurdle. If we can get past that, the rest goes easier. Is there a hurdle between you and attendance at Bible class, or attendance on Sunday nights? Is there a hurdle for you in leading a public prayer, or inviting your neighbor to church? There are precious benefits that accompany each victory we win over dread. One result is we become a fruitful and stronger Christian. Dread makes us weak and unproductive.

Are there important things that you should be doing, but because of dread you have not accomplished them? Let me encourage you to get past the dread. Look to the Lord for strength (Ephesians 6:10-11; Philippians 4:13). Lean on your brethren for support (Galatians 6:2). Remember, it is “not so difficult when once begun.”

— Via articles from La Vista church of Christ
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“…I have trusted in Your lovingkindness; My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation. I will sing to the LORD, Because He has dealt bountifully with me” (Psalm 13:5,6).
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The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

The Gospel Observer

August 16, 2015 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

1) When “Best” Goes Beyond Our Understanding! (Tom Edwards)
2) Truth’s Consequences (Bill Hall)
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When “Best” Goes Beyond Our Understanding!

Tom Edwards

While praying recently, it occurred to me that, due to limited ability, the term “best,” when referring to God and His ways, does not fully describe or convey to us just how much greater God’s wisdom, His virtues, and His ways actually are. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts,” says the Lord (Isa. 55:9).

Often I have prayed for God’s will to be done, not only on earth as it is in heaven, but also everywhere else as well — in whatever the realm, whether physical or spiritual. For His will is, and always will be, the “best.” But, with our limited understanding, does that word adequately indicate just how much greater God’s ways are?

Though using the term “best” would be true in comparing what God does and who He is to that of humanity, yet that of God would be far greater than our comprehension of “best.” For our everyday usage of “best” does not usually imply perfection. For instance, if you had three apples that were going bad, but at different stages of decay, one would be the worst, two would be better than that, and one of those would be the best of all. But, in this case, even the best would still have a little rottenness to it and probably not be one you would want to eat.

So God and His ways are not just “best” in any comparisons made with that of us; but, rather, a “best” to the greatest of all degrees and without even the slightest room nor need for improvement.

God Himself is so much greater than us that it actually goes beyond comparison. The psalmist realized this: “Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders which you have done, And Your thoughts toward us; There is none to compare with You…” (Psa. 40:5). Job also acknowledged this superiority of God by saying, “Who does great things, unfathomable, And wondrous works without number” (Job 9:10). And, going along with this, Paul also, in his doxology, speaks of God as being One “…who is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think” (Eph. 3:20).

God’s work of creation, in bringing about a vast universe with all that is in it, is certainly a manifestation of some of His greatness. As Jeremiah declares in prayer, “Ah Lord GOD! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for You” (Jer. 32:17). And God begins His response to Jeremiah by saying, “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me?” (v. 27). After speaking of that which would be impossible for man, Jesus goes on to show that it would not be that way for God, “for all things are possible” with Him (Mark 10:27). And would we not think that anyone who could simply speak a universe into existence (cf. Gen. 1), and to create that out of nothing (cf. Heb. 11:3), would definitely not have any difficulty in bringing into reality whatever else He would so desire? For the universe was not formed by pre-existing matter; but that which was not was simply commanded to be. Notice, if you would, all the repetitive phrases in the account of creation that precedes and shows how the various things that God had created came about: “Then God said” (Gen. 1:3,6,9,11,14,20,24, and 26). In this first verse, for example, “Then God said, ‘Let there be light’; and there was light.” How marvelous! Imagine if you could make a reality out of any beautiful thing you could think up by just commanding it to be! But even if you had that ability, would you not still rather let God be the one to bless you with whatever He would so desire for all eternity? As Jesus told His apostles, “Let not your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also” (Jn. 14:1-3). Isn’t it wonderful that it is Jesus who will prepare that place — and not just something the apostles would have to do for themselves? For as we saw, God is a God who “…is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think…” (Eph. 3:20). I find great comfort in that and in allowing the Lord to do whatever He desires for me.

And though we haven’t seen that spiritual realm of heaven where God dwells, we have seen some of the physical heavens that He has made and which attests to His reality and greatness (cf. Rom. 1:19,20). As David declares, “The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is expressing the work of His hands” (Psa. 19:1). Paul speaks of God’s power as being a “surpassing greatness” (Eph. 1:19), and how that is clearly seen in the creation. For who can even come close to doing what the Lord has done — and at such a grand, astronomical scale? The rhetorical question, “…For who in the skies is comparable to the LORD? Who among the sons of the mighty is like the LORD…?” (Psa. 89:5-8), must be answered in the negative of “no one.” For whether we are talking about angels or men, how inferior we are to the Almighty God. For if God’s greatness would be represented with infinity, then ours would be likened to nothing more than a grain of sand in comparison. And can we not, therefore, also say that to be able to fully comprehend the totality of God’s greatness would be as impossible to us as to imagine all of infinity? For that is something that we just cannot possibly do. It goes beyond our mental ability.

The Lord says to His people, “To whom would you liken Me And make Me equal and compare Me, That we would be alike?” (Isa. 46:5). Jeremiah’s declaration can accurately be used to answer this. For he states, “There is none like you, O LORD: You are great, and great is Your name in might” (Jer. 10:6).

In this statement, it appears that Jeremiah did not include, in his consideration, Jesus Christ, nor the Holy Spirit — for they are exactly like God the Father when it comes to the essence of Deity and are the other two persons of the eternal Godhead who were also involved in the great work of creation (cf. Gen. 1:1 — “God” is from “Elohim,” the plural form for God; Gen. 1:26, “…’Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness…’”; cf. Jn. 1:1-3,14; Psa. 104:30; Matt. 28:19; Matt. 3:16,17; 2 Cor. 13:14).

Not only is God’s greatness beyond all we can fully fathom, but also that beautiful place called “heaven,” where He forever dwells, is described as being “far beyond all comparison” (2 Cor. 4:17). And isn’t it wonderful to know that this same God is “…not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Pet. 3:9) and “…to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim. 2:4). To be able to enjoy forevermore that which goes beyond all we can even now conceive, certainly can make the trials of life — and whatever sacrifice that needs to be made along the way — very much worthwhile as we strive for that heavenly home (cf. 2 Cor. 4:16-18).

Jesus paved that road by His own blood, in a manner of speaking; but we have the responsibility in turning to God’s roadmap, the Gospel, to see where we pick it up at, how to stay on it and to avoid those wrong turns that we are not to make. For that great destination is still up ahead. We must all, therefore, hear the gospel (Rom. 10:17), believe in the deity of Jesus (Jn. 8:24), repent of sins (Luke 13:5), confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38), and be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mk. 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21), which is all necessary to be forgiven and become a Christian; and then to continue in the faith as we press on for that glorious goal of heaven (Rev. 2:10; Heb. 10:36-39; 2 Pet. 2:20-22). And heaven is not just the best, but also a “best” that goes way beyond human comprehension to the utmost degree of blissfulness in a supreme state of perfection!
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Truth’s Consequences

Bill Hall

The consequences of truth are sometimes bitter. Many a man has lost his job, or home, or friends, or life because of his stand for truth. Many a preacher has been ousted from the pulpit, having neither house nor salary, because he preached the truth. Many a person has had his name slandered and maligned because of truth. With all such people, love for truth is greater than love for comfort, security, or even life itself.

Unfortunate indeed is the man who looks ahead to evaluate the consequences of a position before evaluating the position itself. Such a man will rarely come to a knowledge of truth. His thoughts concerning “What will my wife think?” Or “Where will I preach?” Or “Won’t I be condemning my good mother to hell?” Or “How will I explain my change to good ole Brother Jones?” or “How will I support my family?” or “Everybody will think I’m crazy,” may well blind his mind to whatever evidence is at hand. The man who really demonstrates a love for truth is the man who studies every subject objectively and then lets the consequences — whether they be good or bad — take care of themselves.

Unfortunate too is the man who complains and grieves over the consequences of truth, for truth must bring joy to the heart, whatever may be its consequences. Self-pity may lead one to “sell the truth” and to profane this precious commodity. If pity is to be felt, it must be felt for that person who has never suffered the consequences of truth, for such a man has obviously loved the praises of men more than the praises of God.

No men ever felt the consequences of truth to a greater degree than did the apostles, but they faced all such consequences “rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name” (Acts 5:41). Worthy! There’s the key! The man who lets a fear of consequences dictate his position on every question never suffers, for he is not worthy to suffer. Pity him! But the person who stands for truth regardless of the consequences shall suffer, for he is worthy to suffer. Rejoice with him!

What a difference between the man who is “heaven” oriented and that one who is “this world” oriented!

— Via The Beacon, August 16, 2011
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The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

The Gospel Observer

August 9, 2015 / Tom Edwards

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

Jerry D. Curry

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

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

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

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

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

— via The Sunny Hill Bulletin, Vol. 5, No. 8, April 15, 2001
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21 Reasons Why You Should Be Scripturally Baptized

Kenneth E. Thomas

1. Because God commands it. Acts 10:48

2. To fulfill all righteousness. Matthew 3:15

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

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

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

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

7. To enter the kingdom. John 3:5

8. For remission of sins. Acts 2:38

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. To get INTO Christ. Galatians 3:27

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

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

— Via Articles from La Vista church of Christ
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The Sum of God’s Word

Frank Himmel

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

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

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

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

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

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

— via Gospel Power, Vol. 15, No. 25, June 22, 2008
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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 Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent of sins (Luke 13:5; Acts 17:30).
4) Confess faith in Christ (Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 6:3,4; Gal. 3:26,27; 1 Pet. 3:21)
6) Continue in the faith; for, if not, salvation can be lost (Heb. 10:36-39; Rev. 2:10; 2 Pet. 2:20-22).
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Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA 31501
Sunday services: 9:00 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 5 PM (worship)
Wednesday: 7 PM (Bible class)
evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/go (older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with articles going back to March 4, 1990)
http://ThomasTEdwards.com/audioser.html (audio sermons)

The Gospel Observer

August 2, 2015 / Tom Edwards

Encounters at Jericho

Mark Mayberry

Introduction

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

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

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

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

Old Testament

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

The Faith of Rahab

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

The Faith of Israel

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

The Failure of Achan

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

The Folly of Hiel

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

New Testament

The Baptism of Jesus

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

The Temptation of Jesus

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

The Ministry of Jesus

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

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

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

— Via Truth Magazine, November 24, 2013
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Preparing for the Storm

Greg Gwin

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

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

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

— Via The Beacon, July 7, 2015
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The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

The Gospel Observer

July 26, 2015 / Tom Edwards

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

R.J. Evans

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

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

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

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

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

— Via Articles from the La Vista church of Christ

Editor’s note: The “D” word in the picture I included above had said “Danger.” Losing our temper can be a very dangerous thing — and especially concerning our souls.
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What’s Your Opinion of the Lord Jesus Christ?

Fred McKinney

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Via The Spirit’s Sword, Volume 14, Number 23, July 24, 2011
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A Swarm of Gospel “Be’s”

Austin Mobley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Via The Providence Light, February, 1984
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On Reading God’s Word

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

— Tom
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The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

The Gospel Observer

July 19, 2015 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

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

Gary Henry

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Via WordPoints (February 23, 2015)
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A Good Attitude

Irvin Himmel

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

Toward the Word of God

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

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

Toward Correcting Faults

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

Toward Daily Work

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

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

Toward Solving Problems

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

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

Toward Trials

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

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

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

— Via Truth Magazine XXII: 30, pp. 488-489, August 3, 1978
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The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

The Gospel Observer

July 12, 2015 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

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

Tom Edwards

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Footnote:

(1) “What Does the Bible Really Teach?” by the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, page 41
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The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

The Gospel Observer

July 5, 2015 / Tom Edwards

Contents:

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

Dennis Ross

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

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

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

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

The Lamp Is Lit! “The clay bowl was fashioned first.” Before our lights can shine, we must become “vessels” for God. And it is God who, through His Word, creates true “vessels unto honor” who can truly carry His light. Thus, it is written, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10). Until one obeys the Gospel of Christ, he remains “unlit.” “For Thou wilt light my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness” (Psalm 18:28).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Via the Monthly Messenger of the Knollwood church of Christ, January 2004
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Glory to the Reader or the Writer?

David Diestelkamp

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

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

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

— Via The Beacon, June 30, 2015
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The Lord is My Helper

Faith Building:

The Walls of Jericho

A Different Point of View!

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

“For Now We See in a Mirror Dimly”

Design and the Designer

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Should a Christian Gamble?

Historical & Literal

The Dreaded Task

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

When “Best” Goes Beyond Our Understanding!

Truth’s Consequences

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things

21 Reasons Why You Should Be Scripturally Baptized

The Sum of God’s Word

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Contents:

Encounters at Jericho

Introduction

Old Testament

The Faith of Rahab

The Faith of Israel

The Failure of Achan

The Folly of Hiel

New Testament

The Baptism of Jesus

The Temptation of Jesus

The Ministry of Jesus

Conclusion

Preparing for the Storm

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Controlling Our Temper

What’s Your Opinion of the Lord Jesus Christ?

A Swarm of Gospel “Be’s”

On Reading God’s Word

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

We Can Truly Change

A Good Attitude

Toward the Word of God

Toward Correcting Faults

Toward Daily Work

Toward Solving Problems

Toward Trials

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Thinking of Jesus

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

Light a Lamp

Glory to the Reader or the Writer?

The Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation

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