1) You Have Become Dull of Hearing (Andy Sochor)
2) The Lord’s Day (video sermon, Tom Edwards)
3) News & Notes
——————–<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/heb5_11-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n-1-<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You Have Become Dull of Hearing<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Andy Sochor
In making a point about the superiority of Christ\u2019s priesthood over the priesthood of Aaron, the Hebrew writer cited the priesthood of Melchizedek. Since Jesus was \u201ca high priest according to the order of Melchizedek\u201d (Hebrews 5:10; cf. Psalm 110:4), His priesthood was superior. He would go on to explain why this proved the superiority of Jesus\u2019 priesthood later in the epistle (Hebrews 7:1-10).
However, he paused the discussion about comparing the priesthoods because it was \u201chard to be uttered\u201d (Hebrews 5:11), even though it was certainly not impossible. The problem was not that the facts were difficult. Instead, the problem was that these brethren were \u201cdull of hearing\u201d (Hebrews 5:11). As the Hebrew writer would explain, this problem affected more than just their understanding of Jesus\u2019 priesthood \u2013 it had the potential of costing them their souls.
We need to understand what it means to be \u201cdull of hearing,\u201d what the result is of being in that condition, and how to fix it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What It Means To Be Dull Of Hearing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nFirst, let us consider what it does not mean when one is \u201cdull of hearing.\u201d
It Does Not Mean That One Is Unintelligent or Incapable of Understanding. <\/strong>The Hebrew brethren were capable of understanding this subject that was \u201chard to be uttered (explained)\u201d (Hebrews 5:11). We know this because the Hebrew writer returned to it just two chapters later rather than waiting a few years and writing a second letter to them when they might have matured to the point in which they were ready to consider the issue.
It Does Not Mean That One Has Abandoned the Faith. <\/strong>The recipients of this letter were Christians (Hebrews 6:9-10) who had been described as \u201choly brethren\u201d (Hebrews 3:1). Of course, there was a danger that \u201can evil heart of unbelief\u201d could develop within them (Hebrews 3:12); but they had not yet reached that point of unfaithfulness.
It Does Not Mean That One is a New Christian Who Has Not Learned the Word of God Well Enough Yet.<\/strong> New Christians need the \u201cmilk of the word\u201d (1 Peter 2:2; cf. Hebrews 5:13) \u2013 the fundamental teachings and principles of the gospel in order to lay a foundation for continued spiritual growth. This is perfectly normal. Yet enough time had passed for these Hebrew brethren to have matured (Hebrews 5:12). They simply had not grown as they should have.
Being dull of hearing indicates laziness. Thayer\u2019s definition of this Greek word suggests the idea of sluggishness and indolence. One who is \u201cdull of hearing\u201d is not necessarily lazy in every area of life. One may be a very hard worker at his job or at home, but is still \u201cdull of hearing\u201d as the Hebrew writer described. This is a laziness about learning the word of God.
Learning the word of God requires diligence on our part. Paul told Timothy, \u201cStudy to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that neededth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth\u201d (2 Timothy 2:15). We can learn how to accurately handle the Bible by coming to a proper understanding of it if we are willing to put in the effort of studying the Scriptures. Many people in the world are hard-working at their jobs but lazy when it comes to the Bible. If we are not careful, we can become the same way \u2013 just like the Hebrew brethren.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Result of Being In This Condition<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIn rebuking these brethren for being \u201cdull of hearing,\u201d the Hebrew writer explained why this was such a serious issue by showing the results of being in that condition.
One Who Is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Cannot Discuss Difficult Bible Topics.<\/strong> The gospel message is simple enough that one can learn and obey it in the same hour of the night (Acts 16:31-34). However, there are also passages of Scripture that are \u201chard to understand\u201d which one could \u201cdistort\u201d to his \u201cown destruction\u201d (2 Peter 3:16). Diligence is needed in order to accurately (or rightly) \u201cdivide the word of truth\u201d contained in these difficult passages (2 Timothy 2:15). Yet when one is \u201cdull of hearing,\u201d there are certain passages that he will not be able to discuss and come to a proper understanding.
One Who Is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Needs To Be Taught the Elementary Principles Again. <\/strong>The rebuke of these Hebrew brethren was that they needed someone to teach them elementary principles of the oracles of God again (Hebrews 5:12). These \u201celementary principles\u201d are certainly important and necessary, but we need to make spiritual progress in our understanding of the word of God. Paul told Timothy to \u201cgive attention to the public reading of Scripture\u201d and to \u201cbe absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all\u201d (1 Timothy 4:13, 15). One who is \u201cdull of hearing\u201d never makes sufficient progress to move past the \u201celementary principles.\u201d
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d is Incapable of Teaching Others. <\/strong>Everyone needs to be developing the ability to teach. The future health and effectiveness of local churches depends upon it (2 Timothy 2:2). A church cannot function without teachers (Ephesians 4:11-12). Therefore, the more members in a congregation who are \u201cdull of hearing\u201d and unable to teach, the weaker that local church is.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Will Remain in a State of Spiritual Infancy.<\/strong> This state is natural and normal when one first obeys the gospel (1 Peter 2:2). However, staying in that state is a sign of spiritual sickness. One is spiritually healthy when he is \u201cwalking in truth\u201d (3 John 2-3). One who is \u201cdull of hearing\u201d cannot properly walk in the truth because he is \u201cnot accustomed to the word\u201d (Hebrews 5:13).
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Puts His Salvation in Jeopardy<\/strong>. Diligence is needed in order to realize our hope (Hebrews 6:11). The Hebrew writer said that Christians are not to be \u201cslothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises\u201d (Hebrews 6:12). The word translated sluggish is the same Greek word as the one used to describe being dull of hearing. If unchecked, this laziness toward the word of God will extend to the rest of our spiritual lives as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHow To Fix The Problem<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nAfter identifying the problem and warning of the results of it, the Hebrew writer\u2019s instructions also contain some things that can be done to correct the problem.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must First Recognize the Problem. <\/strong> It is not possible to correct a problem if we do not know that it exists. This requires honest self-evaluation on our part. Paul wrote, \u201cExamine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith: prove your own selves\u201d (2 Corinthians 13:5). We have to be willing to look at ourselves critically to see if we are \u201cdull of hearing.\u201d
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must Quit partaking of Only \u201cMilk.\u201d <\/strong>The Hebrew writer said, \u201cFor every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe\u201d (Hebrews 5:13). The word \u201conly\u201d is key. We will always need reminders of what we have previously learned (2 Peter 1:12-13; 1 Timothy 4:6), but we cannot only pay attention to what we already think we know.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must Make a Habit of Studying the Bible. <\/strong> The Hebrew writer said, \u201cBut strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use (or by habit) have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil\u201d (Hebrews 5:14). We have already seen that diligence is necessary in our study of the Bible (2 Timothy 2:15), but we must invest time as well. Paul wrote, \u201cRedeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is\u201d (Ephesians 5:16-17). Making wise use of our time will, among other things, lead us to understand God\u2019s will that has been revealed in His word because we will be making time to study the Scriptures.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must \u201cGo On to Perfection\u201d (or \u201cPress On to Maturity\u201d). <\/strong>The need to \u201cpress on to maturity\u201d is contrasted with the idea of \u201claying again a foundation\u201d of the elementary principles (Hebrews 6:1). We must recognize that we are expected to grow (2 Peter 3:18; 1 Timothy 4:13, 15). We must develop the ability to teach and to study through and understand difficult passages.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must Build Upon the Foundation of Elementary Principles.<\/strong> The Hebrew writer said that the \u201cprinciples of the doctrine of Christ\u201d were the \u201cfoundation\u201d (Hebrews 6:1). We cannot abandon that foundation. Instead, we need to build upon it. We can do this by continuing to add to our faith (2 Peter 1:5-8) and perfecting our faith through works (James 2:22).<\/p>\n\n\n\nConclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nWe cannot afford to be lazy with the Bible. We need to be diligent with it as with everything else. It is certainly true that Bible study can be challenging, but we need to apply ourselves to it so we can be pleasing to the Lord.
— Via Daily Exhortation,<\/em> May 21, 2021
——————–
-2-<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Lord’s Day<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tom Edwards
For the video sermon with the above title, just click on this following link:
https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/The_Lord’s_Day.mp4<\/a>
——————–
-3-<\/p>\n\n\n\nNews & Notes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ginger Ann Montero<\/strong> is tentatively scheduled for a pacemaker June 4.
Rick Cuthbertson<\/strong> will be seeing a cancer specialist at Duke on June 3.
Deborah Medlock <\/strong>has 2 non-malignant nodules affecting her vocal cords. She also has a slipped disc in her back that has been affecting her walking and causing pain.
Bennie Medlock,<\/strong> in addition to his back pain, also has cataracts that he is scheduled to soon see a doctor about.
Also: Nell Teague<\/strong> (cancer), Danielle Bartlett<\/strong> (heart palpitations and swelling in legs), Doyle Rittenhouse<\/strong> (neck, shoulder, and arm pain), Joyce Rittenhouse<\/strong> (pain in knee), Ritt Rittenhouse <\/strong>(healing from a stroke and has a degenerative disc in his neck which causes trouble).
Let us also continue to remember the family and friends of Jesse Welch<\/strong> who recently passed away.
Our shut-ins: A.J. & Pat Joyner, Jim Lively,<\/strong> and Shirley Davis.
<\/strong>——————–<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n1) Hear<\/strong> the gospel — for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30-31).
2) Believe<\/strong> in the deity of Jesus Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent<\/strong> 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<\/strong> in Christ (Rom. 10:9-10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized<\/strong> 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 \u201cthrough faith in the working of God\u201d (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\u2026
6) Continue in the faith<\/strong> 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).
——————–
<\/strong>Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
<\/strong>1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA 31501
We are currently meeting for only our Sunday 10 a.m. worship service each week, due to the coronavirus situation.<\/strong>
evangelist\/editor: <\/strong><\/strong>Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
<\/strong><\/strong>Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
<\/a>https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/go\/all.htm\/<\/a> <\/strong><\/strong>(older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB). ——————– Contents: 1) You Have Become Dull of Hearing (Andy Sochor)2) The Lord’s Day (video sermon, Tom Edwards)3) News & Notes——————– […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1596","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized","post-preview"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1596"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1600,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596\/revisions\/1600"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1596"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1596"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1596"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
It Does Not Mean That One Is Unintelligent or Incapable of Understanding. <\/strong>The Hebrew brethren were capable of understanding this subject that was \u201chard to be uttered (explained)\u201d (Hebrews 5:11). We know this because the Hebrew writer returned to it just two chapters later rather than waiting a few years and writing a second letter to them when they might have matured to the point in which they were ready to consider the issue.
It Does Not Mean That One Has Abandoned the Faith. <\/strong>The recipients of this letter were Christians (Hebrews 6:9-10) who had been described as \u201choly brethren\u201d (Hebrews 3:1). Of course, there was a danger that \u201can evil heart of unbelief\u201d could develop within them (Hebrews 3:12); but they had not yet reached that point of unfaithfulness.
It Does Not Mean That One is a New Christian Who Has Not Learned the Word of God Well Enough Yet.<\/strong> New Christians need the \u201cmilk of the word\u201d (1 Peter 2:2; cf. Hebrews 5:13) \u2013 the fundamental teachings and principles of the gospel in order to lay a foundation for continued spiritual growth. This is perfectly normal. Yet enough time had passed for these Hebrew brethren to have matured (Hebrews 5:12). They simply had not grown as they should have.
Being dull of hearing indicates laziness. Thayer\u2019s definition of this Greek word suggests the idea of sluggishness and indolence. One who is \u201cdull of hearing\u201d is not necessarily lazy in every area of life. One may be a very hard worker at his job or at home, but is still \u201cdull of hearing\u201d as the Hebrew writer described. This is a laziness about learning the word of God.
Learning the word of God requires diligence on our part. Paul told Timothy, \u201cStudy to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that neededth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth\u201d (2 Timothy 2:15). We can learn how to accurately handle the Bible by coming to a proper understanding of it if we are willing to put in the effort of studying the Scriptures. Many people in the world are hard-working at their jobs but lazy when it comes to the Bible. If we are not careful, we can become the same way \u2013 just like the Hebrew brethren.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Result of Being In This Condition<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIn rebuking these brethren for being \u201cdull of hearing,\u201d the Hebrew writer explained why this was such a serious issue by showing the results of being in that condition.
One Who Is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Cannot Discuss Difficult Bible Topics.<\/strong> The gospel message is simple enough that one can learn and obey it in the same hour of the night (Acts 16:31-34). However, there are also passages of Scripture that are \u201chard to understand\u201d which one could \u201cdistort\u201d to his \u201cown destruction\u201d (2 Peter 3:16). Diligence is needed in order to accurately (or rightly) \u201cdivide the word of truth\u201d contained in these difficult passages (2 Timothy 2:15). Yet when one is \u201cdull of hearing,\u201d there are certain passages that he will not be able to discuss and come to a proper understanding.
One Who Is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Needs To Be Taught the Elementary Principles Again. <\/strong>The rebuke of these Hebrew brethren was that they needed someone to teach them elementary principles of the oracles of God again (Hebrews 5:12). These \u201celementary principles\u201d are certainly important and necessary, but we need to make spiritual progress in our understanding of the word of God. Paul told Timothy to \u201cgive attention to the public reading of Scripture\u201d and to \u201cbe absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all\u201d (1 Timothy 4:13, 15). One who is \u201cdull of hearing\u201d never makes sufficient progress to move past the \u201celementary principles.\u201d
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d is Incapable of Teaching Others. <\/strong>Everyone needs to be developing the ability to teach. The future health and effectiveness of local churches depends upon it (2 Timothy 2:2). A church cannot function without teachers (Ephesians 4:11-12). Therefore, the more members in a congregation who are \u201cdull of hearing\u201d and unable to teach, the weaker that local church is.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Will Remain in a State of Spiritual Infancy.<\/strong> This state is natural and normal when one first obeys the gospel (1 Peter 2:2). However, staying in that state is a sign of spiritual sickness. One is spiritually healthy when he is \u201cwalking in truth\u201d (3 John 2-3). One who is \u201cdull of hearing\u201d cannot properly walk in the truth because he is \u201cnot accustomed to the word\u201d (Hebrews 5:13).
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Puts His Salvation in Jeopardy<\/strong>. Diligence is needed in order to realize our hope (Hebrews 6:11). The Hebrew writer said that Christians are not to be \u201cslothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises\u201d (Hebrews 6:12). The word translated sluggish is the same Greek word as the one used to describe being dull of hearing. If unchecked, this laziness toward the word of God will extend to the rest of our spiritual lives as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHow To Fix The Problem<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nAfter identifying the problem and warning of the results of it, the Hebrew writer\u2019s instructions also contain some things that can be done to correct the problem.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must First Recognize the Problem. <\/strong> It is not possible to correct a problem if we do not know that it exists. This requires honest self-evaluation on our part. Paul wrote, \u201cExamine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith: prove your own selves\u201d (2 Corinthians 13:5). We have to be willing to look at ourselves critically to see if we are \u201cdull of hearing.\u201d
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must Quit partaking of Only \u201cMilk.\u201d <\/strong>The Hebrew writer said, \u201cFor every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe\u201d (Hebrews 5:13). The word \u201conly\u201d is key. We will always need reminders of what we have previously learned (2 Peter 1:12-13; 1 Timothy 4:6), but we cannot only pay attention to what we already think we know.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must Make a Habit of Studying the Bible. <\/strong> The Hebrew writer said, \u201cBut strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use (or by habit) have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil\u201d (Hebrews 5:14). We have already seen that diligence is necessary in our study of the Bible (2 Timothy 2:15), but we must invest time as well. Paul wrote, \u201cRedeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is\u201d (Ephesians 5:16-17). Making wise use of our time will, among other things, lead us to understand God\u2019s will that has been revealed in His word because we will be making time to study the Scriptures.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must \u201cGo On to Perfection\u201d (or \u201cPress On to Maturity\u201d). <\/strong>The need to \u201cpress on to maturity\u201d is contrasted with the idea of \u201claying again a foundation\u201d of the elementary principles (Hebrews 6:1). We must recognize that we are expected to grow (2 Peter 3:18; 1 Timothy 4:13, 15). We must develop the ability to teach and to study through and understand difficult passages.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must Build Upon the Foundation of Elementary Principles.<\/strong> The Hebrew writer said that the \u201cprinciples of the doctrine of Christ\u201d were the \u201cfoundation\u201d (Hebrews 6:1). We cannot abandon that foundation. Instead, we need to build upon it. We can do this by continuing to add to our faith (2 Peter 1:5-8) and perfecting our faith through works (James 2:22).<\/p>\n\n\n\nConclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nWe cannot afford to be lazy with the Bible. We need to be diligent with it as with everything else. It is certainly true that Bible study can be challenging, but we need to apply ourselves to it so we can be pleasing to the Lord.
— Via Daily Exhortation,<\/em> May 21, 2021
——————–
-2-<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Lord’s Day<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tom Edwards
For the video sermon with the above title, just click on this following link:
https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/The_Lord’s_Day.mp4<\/a>
——————–
-3-<\/p>\n\n\n\nNews & Notes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ginger Ann Montero<\/strong> is tentatively scheduled for a pacemaker June 4.
Rick Cuthbertson<\/strong> will be seeing a cancer specialist at Duke on June 3.
Deborah Medlock <\/strong>has 2 non-malignant nodules affecting her vocal cords. She also has a slipped disc in her back that has been affecting her walking and causing pain.
Bennie Medlock,<\/strong> in addition to his back pain, also has cataracts that he is scheduled to soon see a doctor about.
Also: Nell Teague<\/strong> (cancer), Danielle Bartlett<\/strong> (heart palpitations and swelling in legs), Doyle Rittenhouse<\/strong> (neck, shoulder, and arm pain), Joyce Rittenhouse<\/strong> (pain in knee), Ritt Rittenhouse <\/strong>(healing from a stroke and has a degenerative disc in his neck which causes trouble).
Let us also continue to remember the family and friends of Jesse Welch<\/strong> who recently passed away.
Our shut-ins: A.J. & Pat Joyner, Jim Lively,<\/strong> and Shirley Davis.
<\/strong>——————–<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n1) Hear<\/strong> the gospel — for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30-31).
2) Believe<\/strong> in the deity of Jesus Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent<\/strong> 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<\/strong> in Christ (Rom. 10:9-10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized<\/strong> 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 \u201cthrough faith in the working of God\u201d (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\u2026
6) Continue in the faith<\/strong> 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).
——————–
<\/strong>Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
<\/strong>1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA 31501
We are currently meeting for only our Sunday 10 a.m. worship service each week, due to the coronavirus situation.<\/strong>
evangelist\/editor: <\/strong><\/strong>Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
<\/strong><\/strong>Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
<\/a>https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/go\/all.htm\/<\/a> <\/strong><\/strong>(older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB). ——————– Contents: 1) You Have Become Dull of Hearing (Andy Sochor)2) The Lord’s Day (video sermon, Tom Edwards)3) News & Notes——————– […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1596","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized","post-preview"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1596"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1600,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596\/revisions\/1600"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1596"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1596"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1596"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
One Who Is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Cannot Discuss Difficult Bible Topics.<\/strong> The gospel message is simple enough that one can learn and obey it in the same hour of the night (Acts 16:31-34). However, there are also passages of Scripture that are \u201chard to understand\u201d which one could \u201cdistort\u201d to his \u201cown destruction\u201d (2 Peter 3:16). Diligence is needed in order to accurately (or rightly) \u201cdivide the word of truth\u201d contained in these difficult passages (2 Timothy 2:15). Yet when one is \u201cdull of hearing,\u201d there are certain passages that he will not be able to discuss and come to a proper understanding.
One Who Is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Needs To Be Taught the Elementary Principles Again. <\/strong>The rebuke of these Hebrew brethren was that they needed someone to teach them elementary principles of the oracles of God again (Hebrews 5:12). These \u201celementary principles\u201d are certainly important and necessary, but we need to make spiritual progress in our understanding of the word of God. Paul told Timothy to \u201cgive attention to the public reading of Scripture\u201d and to \u201cbe absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all\u201d (1 Timothy 4:13, 15). One who is \u201cdull of hearing\u201d never makes sufficient progress to move past the \u201celementary principles.\u201d
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d is Incapable of Teaching Others. <\/strong>Everyone needs to be developing the ability to teach. The future health and effectiveness of local churches depends upon it (2 Timothy 2:2). A church cannot function without teachers (Ephesians 4:11-12). Therefore, the more members in a congregation who are \u201cdull of hearing\u201d and unable to teach, the weaker that local church is.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Will Remain in a State of Spiritual Infancy.<\/strong> This state is natural and normal when one first obeys the gospel (1 Peter 2:2). However, staying in that state is a sign of spiritual sickness. One is spiritually healthy when he is \u201cwalking in truth\u201d (3 John 2-3). One who is \u201cdull of hearing\u201d cannot properly walk in the truth because he is \u201cnot accustomed to the word\u201d (Hebrews 5:13).
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Puts His Salvation in Jeopardy<\/strong>. Diligence is needed in order to realize our hope (Hebrews 6:11). The Hebrew writer said that Christians are not to be \u201cslothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises\u201d (Hebrews 6:12). The word translated sluggish is the same Greek word as the one used to describe being dull of hearing. If unchecked, this laziness toward the word of God will extend to the rest of our spiritual lives as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How To Fix The Problem<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nAfter identifying the problem and warning of the results of it, the Hebrew writer\u2019s instructions also contain some things that can be done to correct the problem.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must First Recognize the Problem. <\/strong> It is not possible to correct a problem if we do not know that it exists. This requires honest self-evaluation on our part. Paul wrote, \u201cExamine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith: prove your own selves\u201d (2 Corinthians 13:5). We have to be willing to look at ourselves critically to see if we are \u201cdull of hearing.\u201d
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must Quit partaking of Only \u201cMilk.\u201d <\/strong>The Hebrew writer said, \u201cFor every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe\u201d (Hebrews 5:13). The word \u201conly\u201d is key. We will always need reminders of what we have previously learned (2 Peter 1:12-13; 1 Timothy 4:6), but we cannot only pay attention to what we already think we know.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must Make a Habit of Studying the Bible. <\/strong> The Hebrew writer said, \u201cBut strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use (or by habit) have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil\u201d (Hebrews 5:14). We have already seen that diligence is necessary in our study of the Bible (2 Timothy 2:15), but we must invest time as well. Paul wrote, \u201cRedeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is\u201d (Ephesians 5:16-17). Making wise use of our time will, among other things, lead us to understand God\u2019s will that has been revealed in His word because we will be making time to study the Scriptures.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must \u201cGo On to Perfection\u201d (or \u201cPress On to Maturity\u201d). <\/strong>The need to \u201cpress on to maturity\u201d is contrasted with the idea of \u201claying again a foundation\u201d of the elementary principles (Hebrews 6:1). We must recognize that we are expected to grow (2 Peter 3:18; 1 Timothy 4:13, 15). We must develop the ability to teach and to study through and understand difficult passages.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must Build Upon the Foundation of Elementary Principles.<\/strong> The Hebrew writer said that the \u201cprinciples of the doctrine of Christ\u201d were the \u201cfoundation\u201d (Hebrews 6:1). We cannot abandon that foundation. Instead, we need to build upon it. We can do this by continuing to add to our faith (2 Peter 1:5-8) and perfecting our faith through works (James 2:22).<\/p>\n\n\n\nConclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nWe cannot afford to be lazy with the Bible. We need to be diligent with it as with everything else. It is certainly true that Bible study can be challenging, but we need to apply ourselves to it so we can be pleasing to the Lord.
— Via Daily Exhortation,<\/em> May 21, 2021
——————–
-2-<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Lord’s Day<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tom Edwards
For the video sermon with the above title, just click on this following link:
https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/The_Lord’s_Day.mp4<\/a>
——————–
-3-<\/p>\n\n\n\nNews & Notes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ginger Ann Montero<\/strong> is tentatively scheduled for a pacemaker June 4.
Rick Cuthbertson<\/strong> will be seeing a cancer specialist at Duke on June 3.
Deborah Medlock <\/strong>has 2 non-malignant nodules affecting her vocal cords. She also has a slipped disc in her back that has been affecting her walking and causing pain.
Bennie Medlock,<\/strong> in addition to his back pain, also has cataracts that he is scheduled to soon see a doctor about.
Also: Nell Teague<\/strong> (cancer), Danielle Bartlett<\/strong> (heart palpitations and swelling in legs), Doyle Rittenhouse<\/strong> (neck, shoulder, and arm pain), Joyce Rittenhouse<\/strong> (pain in knee), Ritt Rittenhouse <\/strong>(healing from a stroke and has a degenerative disc in his neck which causes trouble).
Let us also continue to remember the family and friends of Jesse Welch<\/strong> who recently passed away.
Our shut-ins: A.J. & Pat Joyner, Jim Lively,<\/strong> and Shirley Davis.
<\/strong>——————–<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n1) Hear<\/strong> the gospel — for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30-31).
2) Believe<\/strong> in the deity of Jesus Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent<\/strong> 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<\/strong> in Christ (Rom. 10:9-10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized<\/strong> 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 \u201cthrough faith in the working of God\u201d (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\u2026
6) Continue in the faith<\/strong> 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).
——————–
<\/strong>Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
<\/strong>1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA 31501
We are currently meeting for only our Sunday 10 a.m. worship service each week, due to the coronavirus situation.<\/strong>
evangelist\/editor: <\/strong><\/strong>Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
<\/strong><\/strong>Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
<\/a>https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/go\/all.htm\/<\/a> <\/strong><\/strong>(older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB). ——————– Contents: 1) You Have Become Dull of Hearing (Andy Sochor)2) The Lord’s Day (video sermon, Tom Edwards)3) News & Notes——————– […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1596","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized","post-preview"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1596"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1600,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596\/revisions\/1600"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1596"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1596"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1596"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must First Recognize the Problem. <\/strong> It is not possible to correct a problem if we do not know that it exists. This requires honest self-evaluation on our part. Paul wrote, \u201cExamine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith: prove your own selves\u201d (2 Corinthians 13:5). We have to be willing to look at ourselves critically to see if we are \u201cdull of hearing.\u201d
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must Quit partaking of Only \u201cMilk.\u201d <\/strong>The Hebrew writer said, \u201cFor every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe\u201d (Hebrews 5:13). The word \u201conly\u201d is key. We will always need reminders of what we have previously learned (2 Peter 1:12-13; 1 Timothy 4:6), but we cannot only pay attention to what we already think we know.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must Make a Habit of Studying the Bible. <\/strong> The Hebrew writer said, \u201cBut strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use (or by habit) have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil\u201d (Hebrews 5:14). We have already seen that diligence is necessary in our study of the Bible (2 Timothy 2:15), but we must invest time as well. Paul wrote, \u201cRedeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is\u201d (Ephesians 5:16-17). Making wise use of our time will, among other things, lead us to understand God\u2019s will that has been revealed in His word because we will be making time to study the Scriptures.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must \u201cGo On to Perfection\u201d (or \u201cPress On to Maturity\u201d). <\/strong>The need to \u201cpress on to maturity\u201d is contrasted with the idea of \u201claying again a foundation\u201d of the elementary principles (Hebrews 6:1). We must recognize that we are expected to grow (2 Peter 3:18; 1 Timothy 4:13, 15). We must develop the ability to teach and to study through and understand difficult passages.
One Who is \u201cDull of Hearing\u201d Must Build Upon the Foundation of Elementary Principles.<\/strong> The Hebrew writer said that the \u201cprinciples of the doctrine of Christ\u201d were the \u201cfoundation\u201d (Hebrews 6:1). We cannot abandon that foundation. Instead, we need to build upon it. We can do this by continuing to add to our faith (2 Peter 1:5-8) and perfecting our faith through works (James 2:22).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nWe cannot afford to be lazy with the Bible. We need to be diligent with it as with everything else. It is certainly true that Bible study can be challenging, but we need to apply ourselves to it so we can be pleasing to the Lord.
— Via Daily Exhortation,<\/em> May 21, 2021
——————–
-2-<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Lord’s Day<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tom Edwards
For the video sermon with the above title, just click on this following link:
https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/The_Lord’s_Day.mp4<\/a>
——————–
-3-<\/p>\n\n\n\nNews & Notes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ginger Ann Montero<\/strong> is tentatively scheduled for a pacemaker June 4.
Rick Cuthbertson<\/strong> will be seeing a cancer specialist at Duke on June 3.
Deborah Medlock <\/strong>has 2 non-malignant nodules affecting her vocal cords. She also has a slipped disc in her back that has been affecting her walking and causing pain.
Bennie Medlock,<\/strong> in addition to his back pain, also has cataracts that he is scheduled to soon see a doctor about.
Also: Nell Teague<\/strong> (cancer), Danielle Bartlett<\/strong> (heart palpitations and swelling in legs), Doyle Rittenhouse<\/strong> (neck, shoulder, and arm pain), Joyce Rittenhouse<\/strong> (pain in knee), Ritt Rittenhouse <\/strong>(healing from a stroke and has a degenerative disc in his neck which causes trouble).
Let us also continue to remember the family and friends of Jesse Welch<\/strong> who recently passed away.
Our shut-ins: A.J. & Pat Joyner, Jim Lively,<\/strong> and Shirley Davis.
<\/strong>——————–<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n1) Hear<\/strong> the gospel — for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30-31).
2) Believe<\/strong> in the deity of Jesus Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent<\/strong> 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<\/strong> in Christ (Rom. 10:9-10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized<\/strong> 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 \u201cthrough faith in the working of God\u201d (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\u2026
6) Continue in the faith<\/strong> 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).
——————–
<\/strong>Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
<\/strong>1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA 31501
We are currently meeting for only our Sunday 10 a.m. worship service each week, due to the coronavirus situation.<\/strong>
evangelist\/editor: <\/strong><\/strong>Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
<\/strong><\/strong>Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
<\/a>https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/go\/all.htm\/<\/a> <\/strong><\/strong>(older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB). ——————– Contents: 1) You Have Become Dull of Hearing (Andy Sochor)2) The Lord’s Day (video sermon, Tom Edwards)3) News & Notes——————– […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1596","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized","post-preview"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1596"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1600,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596\/revisions\/1600"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1596"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1596"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1596"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
— Via Daily Exhortation,<\/em> May 21, 2021
——————–
-2-<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Lord’s Day<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tom Edwards Ginger Ann Montero<\/strong> is tentatively scheduled for a pacemaker June 4. 1) Hear<\/strong> the gospel — for that is how faith comes (Rom. 10:17; John 20:30-31). “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, NASB). ——————– Contents: 1) You Have Become Dull of Hearing (Andy Sochor)2) The Lord’s Day (video sermon, Tom Edwards)3) News & Notes——————– […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1596","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized","post-preview"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1596"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1600,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1596\/revisions\/1600"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1596"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1596"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1596"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
For the video sermon with the above title, just click on this following link:
https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/wordpress\/The_Lord’s_Day.mp4<\/a>
——————–
-3-<\/p>\n\n\n\nNews & Notes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Rick Cuthbertson<\/strong> will be seeing a cancer specialist at Duke on June 3.
Deborah Medlock <\/strong>has 2 non-malignant nodules affecting her vocal cords. She also has a slipped disc in her back that has been affecting her walking and causing pain.
Bennie Medlock,<\/strong> in addition to his back pain, also has cataracts that he is scheduled to soon see a doctor about.
Also: Nell Teague<\/strong> (cancer), Danielle Bartlett<\/strong> (heart palpitations and swelling in legs), Doyle Rittenhouse<\/strong> (neck, shoulder, and arm pain), Joyce Rittenhouse<\/strong> (pain in knee), Ritt Rittenhouse <\/strong>(healing from a stroke and has a degenerative disc in his neck which causes trouble).
Let us also continue to remember the family and friends of Jesse Welch<\/strong> who recently passed away.
Our shut-ins: A.J. & Pat Joyner, Jim Lively,<\/strong> and Shirley Davis.
<\/strong>——————–<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Steps That Lead to Eternal Salvation<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
2) Believe<\/strong> in the deity of Jesus Christ (John 8:24; John 3:18).
3) Repent<\/strong> 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<\/strong> in Christ (Rom. 10:9-10; Acts 8:36-38).
5) Be baptized<\/strong> 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 \u201cthrough faith in the working of God\u201d (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\u2026
6) Continue in the faith<\/strong> 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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<\/strong>Tebeau Street
CHURCH OF CHRIST
<\/strong>1402 Tebeau Street, Waycross, GA 31501
We are currently meeting for only our Sunday 10 a.m. worship service each week, due to the coronavirus situation.<\/strong>
evangelist\/editor: <\/strong><\/strong>Tom Edwards (912) 281-9917
<\/strong><\/strong>Tom@ThomasTEdwards.com
<\/a>https:\/\/thomastedwards.com\/go\/all.htm\/<\/a> <\/strong><\/strong>(older version of the Gospel Observer website, but with bulletins going back to March 4, 1990)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"