From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Tue Dec 1 05:13:41 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Tue, 1 Dec 2009 06:13:41 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) FAITH, HOPE, AND PATIENCE Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Tuesday morn- ing to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an article from my files: FAITH, HOPE, AND PATIENCE "These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth...But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them" (Heb. 11:13,16). Promises are interesting things, and the promises of God are the most interesting of all. Promises always have to do with the future. They create an expectancy, a forward looking attitude to- ward some reality that is not yet a reality but only an idea. Con- sider how three great virtues ---FAITH, HOPE, and PATIENCE --- work together to determine our response to God's promises. FAITH: -- The virtue of faith determines our "intellectual" re- sponse. It means that we believe that God's promises will be kept, that whatever God has predicted will come to pass just as He has said. It involves more than a merely intellectual process- ing of information, of course, but even so, it is an act of the intell- ect. When God says, "This is going to happen," we must trust His prediction. HOPE: -- Based on the faith that God's promises can be counted on, hope makes an "emotional" response to those pro- mises. It fervently LONGS for those promises to be fulfilled. In the confidence that whatever God brings to pass, or even allows to come to pass, will be better than any other possible scenario, we eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of His promises. We don't merely ACCEPT the realities that God brings about -- we embrace them joyfully. PATIENCE: --With this virtue, we come to a "volitional" res- ponse to God's promises. Volition has to do with our will, and so patience means that we exercise the power of our will to obey God faithfully while we are waiting for His promises to come to pass. This is not easy to do, especially since we are looking forward to them with such eagerness and since the con- ditions in which we have to wait are so painful. When our hearts cry out "How long, O Lord?" and God says "Not yet," we must make the choice to be patient. Faith and hope are important, obviously, but without patien- ce all is lost. Since the beginning of time, many have put their faith in God and some even their hope. But few have had the patience to wait until He is ready to make all things beautiful... IN HIS OWN TIME. "God makes a promise; faith believes it, hope anticipates it, and patience quietly awaits it" (Anonymous). This article is from Gary Henry's Reaching Forward, via, The Henderson Blvd. Church Bulletin. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091201/90be9c24/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Tue Dec 1 05:13:53 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Tue, 1 Dec 2009 06:13:53 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) THE LAST DAY OF YOUR LIFE (2) Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is the second and final installment of this particular study. Use to the glory of God. THE LAST DAY OF YOUR LIFE (2) Forgive Others: -- "But Jesus was saying, 'Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.' And they cast lots, dividing up His garment among themselves" (Lk. 23:34). While they are killing Him, Jesus is forgiving His killers. While they gamble over His clothing, He is offering mercy to them. Jesus is dying, yet is thinking of how to forgive even in His last momen- ts. In fact, one of the thieves crucified with Jesus reaches out to Him and Jesus helps him. "And he was saying, 'Jesus, rem- ember me when You come in Your kingdom!' And He said to him, 'Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise'" (Lk. 23:42,43). In this part of the episode, Jesus is hanging from the cross, with nails through His hands and feet. Yet, He still interacts with the thief and offers him hope and comfort. It is amazing, not just that Jesus cared, but that at this moment He acted with such mercy and kindness. We need to remember, again, that Jesus offered mercy as He died because that is how He lived. He offered forgiveness to a paralyzed man (Mk. 2:5). He offered mercy to a sinful wom- an (Lk. 7:48). He offered mercy to a tax collector (Lk. 19:9,10). Jesus repeatedly forgave people, even people caught in sin (Jno. 8). Jesus lived to be merciful, and died in the same way. Of course, we know that Jesus came to die to forgive all of us of our sins. "But we do see Him who has been made for a little while lower than the angels, namely, Jesus, because of the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that by the grace of God He might taste death for everyone" (Heb. 2:9). Still, we are challenged to be like Him. "And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you" (Eph. 4:32). Gor those of us who want to follow the Christ, we must learn to be forgiving even toward people who don't deserve, may not appreciate it, and may even reject it. Our task is to be like Jesus, eager, willing and quick to forgive. It is in fact, the standard God will use on us when we face Him. "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matt. 6:12). God will be merciful toward us as we are merciful toward others. This means each and every one of us needs to be forgiving today, tomorrow and every day. There is never a reason to hold a grudge or to harbor anger. Like Jesus, even as others misuse us, we must be kind and merciful toward them. Ignore The Critics: -- "And the people stood by, looking on. And even the rulers were sneering at Him, saying, 'He saved others; let Him save Himself fi this is the Christ of God, His Chosen One' And the soldiers also mocked Him, coming up to Him, offering Him sour wine, and saying, 'If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself!" (Lk. 23:35-37). This is such a sad scene. Three men dying. They are dying a cruel and horrible death on three cross- es. Yet, supposedly religious people are making fun of one of them. It might make sense that soldiers who had crucified many prisoners would be calloused and cruel. But, religious people who claim to serve God? How hard hearted they must of been! But, Jesus didn't respond. He didn't complain. He didn't prove them wrong. He just took it. As Peter says it, "For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps, Who committed no sin, nor was any deceit found in His mouth; and while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Him- self to Him Who judges righteously; and He Himself bore our sins in His body on he cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed" (1 Pet. 2:21- 24). Jesus never mouthed back. He didn't get even. He kept His mouth shut and died for us. Now He calls on us to do the same. Ignore the critics and be the kind of person He was. If Today Were Your Last Day...: -- None of us knows when exact- ly death will come. Today could be your last day, or tomorrow. Some may know, because of illness, that death will come soon. But one thing is for sure, one day will be your last day. You will die. And like Jesus, you will probably die as you have lived. What Would You Change?: -- If you are a Christian, make it your aim that you will live today as Jesus did. So that if it is your last day, you will be like Him. If you are not a Christian, make the decision now to be baptized into Christ. Let Him save you. That is why He lived and why He died. If today were your last day, wouldn't you come to Him? Why not be saved today by obeying Him Who died for you? ------- David Thurman, in Gospel Minutes Vol. 58, No. 6, Feb. 6, 2007. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091201/fbfb9587/attachment-0001.html From tedwards at onemain.com Tue Dec 1 06:37:22 2009 From: tedwards at onemain.com (tedwards at onemain.com) Date: Tue, 01 Dec 2009 06:37:22 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] B> Gospel Observer 11/29/09 Message-ID: <4B14B9A2.19120.24C5F0@localhost> -------------------- The Gospel Observer "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" (Matt. 28:19,20) -------------------- November 29, 2009 -------------------- Contents: 1) "Praying a Sinner's Prayer (Jarrod Jacobs) 2) Seed and Soil (Jim R. Everett) 3) Sentence Sermons (on the home, selected) -------------------- -1- "Praying a Sinner's Prayer" by Jarrod Jacobs A while back, I received a sample packet of tracts from "The Tract League" (a.k.a. "Faith, Prayer, & Tract League") out of Grand Rapids, MI. According to their form letter addressed to the "Pastor," they have over 300 tracts in stock "designed to point to Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation." While their intentions may be admirable, they are going about it in the wrong way. In nearly every tract, they encourage people to say a "sinner's prayer" and then join a church, be baptized, etc. I have printed some examples of their "prayers" below: 1) "Jesus, I believe and I need the salvation you have provided. Come into my heart, rule my life today, and show me how to live. Amen" From the tract: "The Plain Gospel" 2) "Jesus, I believe that you are the holy Son of God. I believe that you died on the cross for my sins and that you rose from the dead. You are my salvation. Please wash all my sins away and make me a child of God. I give my life to you today. Amen" From The tract: "What Is Meant By Salvation?" 3) "Jesus, I need your salvation. I open my heart to you. I confess that you are God's own son, and that you died on the cross to save me from my sin. Help me to turn from my ways and follow you. Make me ready for your return and show me how to live in the days ahead. Amen." From the tract: "Jesus Is Coming Again" 4) "Jesus, I am sorry for the things I do and say that are wrong. Make me your child, take care of me and help me from now on to follow you. Amen." From the tract: "Here's A Treat For You And Some Good News." Probably all of our dear readers have seen similar tracts to these, and as well have seen these little "model" prayers at one point or another. Unfortunately, some, after reading such tracts as these may say a similar prayer, and go on their way thinking that they are saved. Perhaps you have heard a denominational preacher on the radio or on TV encourage people to say words to this effect. This is disturbing at best, and spiritually fatal at worst. Let us study and see what the Bible has to say about such prayers. The Bible Never Mentions Such a Thing as a "Sinner's Prayer." Pray tell, which verse might one use to prove that one can pray a "sinner's prayer" in order to be saved? Some might look to Luke 18:13 and think that this shows us an example of a sinner's prayer. There is just one problem with this, and that is that the men mentioned in this text (Pharisee and publican) were both Jews! They were already children of God and allowed to enter the Temple; but no "stranger, uncircumcised in heart, nor ... in flesh, shall enter into my sanctuary" (Ezek. 44:9). Therefore, the publican's prayer of "God be merciful to me a sinner" would not be applicable to one outside of Christ today. Now, which New Testament passage teaches the necessity of saying a "sinner's prayer" where, at that moment, one is saved, before and without anything else, including baptism? Brethren, no Scripture teaches us to pray some kind of "sinner's prayer." In fact, "we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth" (Jn. 9:31). Each of the Prayers Mentioned are Different. Reread the "prayers" recorded on this page. Notice please that each one is different. Two prayers don't even mention Christ's death on the cross! Two prayers mention faith ("I believe") and two do not. (I wonder if our denominational friends would consider one saved if he tried to join them and said he had prayed one of the two prayers that doesn't even mention faith in Christ?) Further, three of the prayers mention something about the person following Christ after being "saved," while one doesn't mention it at all. One prayer mentions being washed from sins, and the other three do not. Why bring this up? It is because in the New Testament, we find that everyone that God considered saved did the same thing in order to be saved. Each one heard God's word (Rom. 10:17; Acts 8:5, 35, 16:13, 2:22), they believed that Jesus Christ is the Son of God (Acts 2:36, 8:12, 16:31, Mk. 16:16), repented of their sins (Lk. 13:3; Acts 2:38, 17:31), confessed their faith in Christ (Matt. 10:32; Acts 8:37), and were baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38; Mk. 16:16; Acts 8:12-13, 16:15, 33, 22:16). Notice also that in the Bible, the washing away of sins came after one had been baptized (Acts 22:16). Each case of conversion in the Bible is consistent with the other. We cannot say this about these so-called "prayers" men have suggested we say in order to be saved. These Prayers Offer Another Way to Salvation. While the "The Tract League" of Grand Rapids, MI claims they are pointing people to Christ, the truth is that they are not. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me" (Jn. 14:6). People such as Philip (Acts 8:5, 12, 35-39), Paul (Acts 17:3, 18:8), and Peter (Acts 2:22, 36-38, 3:19) pointed people to Christ. They did this by telling people what Christ had taught (Acts 4:20, 9:22). Where in the Scriptures does Christ teach men to pray a "sinner's prayer" in order to be saved? In truth, the "sinner's prayer" is the old denominational doctrine of "praying through" to God. The only difference is that in the past, "praying through" meant one might pray one prayer after another, with the person not "getting through" on the first try. This version of "praying through," as portrayed in the tracts and by modern denominational preachers, promises you'll "get through" on the first try! Promises; promises; promises! How convenient! Once we know what is necessary to be saved, we learn that the "sinner's prayer" is nothing more than a veiled attempt by man at circumventing God's law through providing an alternate way to be saved. Remember what Christ said? "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber" (Jn.10:1). Who is the door? "I am the door" (Jn. 10:7, 9). Christ is the way, and He is the door! Therefore, our responsibility is to follow Christ's word "as is," and not be caught up in the feel-good, free, no cost, nothing to do, and nothing to lose salvation that the world is promising. The "sinner's prayer" promises something it cannot provide (i.e., salvation). Let us be found doing the will of God, and following His word all the days of our lives (Acts 2:36-38; Acts 22:16; II Pet. 1:5-11; Rev. 2:10; I Cor. 15:58). Conclusion Friend, instead of trusting in man's words, why not go to God's word and learn what is necessary to be saved. Nothing can compare to knowing exactly what God expects of you. The salvation of a man's soul is a serious matter; for no greater injustice can be done to any person than to give them the impression they are saved, when, in fact, they are not. The "sinner's prayer" leaves people in their sin. -- Via ?Common Questions -- Bible Answers? (Southside church of Christ, Owensboro, Kentucky) -------------------- -2- Seed and Soil by Jim R. Everett The productivity of seed is directly proportionate to the fertility of soil. It matters not how good the seed is, if it is planted in bad soil; either it will not germinate or, having germinated, it will produce a sickly plant. So it is with the word of God and human hearts. In the parable of "The Sower," stress is laid, not on the power of the seed, but, on the kind of soil in which it is sown. Four kinds of soil are mentioned in which the seed is sown -- the wayside, rocky places, soil in which thorns are abundant, and good soil (Lk. 8:1-15; Matt. 13:1-23). Each of these represents four different kinds of human hearts, while the seed is called "the word of God" (Lk. 8:11). The deficiencies of the first three kinds of soil do not, in any way, cast reflection upon the power of the seed to produce life. The problem is in the soil and not in the seed. Neither should men speak of the word of God as powerless to convert men -- the potential to produce new life and to change men is found in the word of God (see Romans 1:16; 1 Peter 1:22-25). So why doesn't it always bring forth an abundant harvest? -- because the soil, the human heart, is not receptive or it is encumbered with the cares of the world. So, let's not blame God for our lack of productivity -- the kind of soil we are has been our choice. What are the ingredients of fertile soil? Jesus defines it thusly: "... they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience" (Lk. 8:15 ). I believe there are still human beings with good hearts that want the word of God. Is your soil good? -- Via Putting the Brethren in Remembrance, November 2003 -------------------- -3- Sentence Sermons A house is built by human hands...but a home is built by human hearts. A HOUSE is built of logs and stones, Of tiles and posts and tiers; A HOME is built of loving deeds That stand a thousand years. He is happiest, be he king or peasant, who finds peace in his home. -- Selected -------------------- 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). ------------------- CHURCH OF CHRIST 201 Rushing Road (at the Hampton Inn), Denham Springs, Louisiana 70726 Sunday services: 9:15 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 4 PM (worship) evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (225) 667-4520 tedwards at onemain.com http://home.onemain.com/~tedwards/go Directions: Take the Denham Springs exit (exit 10) off of I-12. At the end of the exit ramp, turn north. Go about a stone's throw to Rushing Road. (You'll see a Starbucks, Circle K, and two other gas stations; with each on each corner.) Turn left on Rushing Road, and go less then 0.3 of a mile. Hampton Inn will be on the right. We assemble in its meeting room, which is very close to the reception counter. -------------------- -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091201/c09aa3d1/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Wed Dec 2 00:18:35 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Wed, 2 Dec 2009 01:18:35 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) IT IS WHAT IT IS Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Wednesday monrning to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an article from my files: IT IS WHAT IT IS A friend of mine, wise and astute beyond his years (so he tells me), has shared his newly discovered motto with me: "It is what it is." Ok, so I've thought that a few times before, but it is one of those simple statements that forces us back to reality at times when we may feel overcome by our circumstances and disappointments of life. When things aren't exactly as you would desire them, you can become focused on reality by telling yourself, "It is what it is." Circumstances are what they are. There are some things we can change, and some things we can't (we're getting more pro- found as we go). Our problem is that we often expend more worry and energy on the things we can't change; and this, in turn, can become a stumbling block to our spiritual growth and joy. "And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?" (Matt. 6:27). Paul's own circumstances were often less than ideal, and beyond his control, yet his attitude remained stable: "I have learned to be content in whatever circumstance I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me" (Phil. 4:11-13). If I may vent- ure a loose paraphrase: It is what it is, I have learned to deal with "it" through God's help. "Moses My servant is dead." So spoke the Lord to Joshua in (Jos. 1:2). Joshua knew this already; they had been mourn- ing for days. But sometimes we need a reminder of the simple truth about reality. Essentially, God was telling Joshua, "Moses is gone, and you can't change that now or have him back. Now it's tome to get up and go take the land of promise." In other words, "It is what it is, and you have to work with 'it' the way it is." The only other option is not to accept reality. People do sometimes go through phases of "denial." They do not feel men- tally able to accept what "is." It hurts too much perhaps. But if we will ever "arise and cross the Jordan" in our lives, we must learn to accept the facts and circumstances of life. It takes cour- age. It takes resolve. But it must be done. "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and sup- plication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehens- ion, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:6,7). God gives us the tools to be able to deal with all of our circumstances, including the painful ones. He wants us to cast our cares on Him, pray about them, and then let Him grant us peace in our hearts. The solution to problems is not denial. We should learn to admit reality, then work with it as it is. When there are matters we can change for the better, let's work to change them. When the circumstances don't meet our concept of ideal, and we can't change them, let's learn to accept them and resolve to move for- ward with the strength God supplies. In all matters, we must "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness" (Matt. 6: 33). Becasyem as another one of my favorite "profound" quest- ions reminds us, a hundred years from now, what will "it" matter? We worry about things that will pass away into oblivion, and sometimes ignore those matters that have eternal conseque- nces. A hundred years from now, it won't matter that my car has a few scratches, or my water heater went out. What will matter is whether or nto I've devoted myself to God and His Will. It is what it is. Thanks, Chris, for that reminder. --- Doy Moyer via Gospel Power, Vol. 16, No. 38, Sept. 20, 2009. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091202/9334ccf7/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Wed Dec 2 00:18:46 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Wed, 2 Dec 2009 01:18:46 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) IT'S YOUR LIFE, YOU KNOW Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is a study from my files. Use to the glory of God. IT'S YOUR LIFE, YOU KNOW Life is filled with perplexities, puzzlements of various sorts. It has odd turns: seemingly insignificant things sometimes turn out to be terribly significant; things that aren't supposed to work out, but sometimes do; and things that seemingly should work out, but don't Life is a tangled web, a knotty, mostly inexplicable web. Man seeks to describe it, to explain it, and he can't. All he can do is live it. But don't despair. There is more to life than just an inexplic- able maze of un-related and un-controllable events. Actually, God made life, and it is to Him that we must turn for information concerning its proper management. Life can be a zesty, fulfilling experience, even in the face of difficulty or adversity, if it is lived in accordance with the designs of the Maker. Otherwise it's just an empty shell lived without meaning and with little genuine hap- piness attached to it. First, let it be carefully observed that a life divorced from God has little meaning. Solomon paints a sordid picture of life in Eccl- esiastes. He says that the sun rises and goes down over and over. He says that one generation comes and another passes away. He says that the weather forecast really doesn't change that much -- that one caold front follows another, that "that which is crooked cannot be made straight and that whcih is wanting cannot be numbered" (Eccl. 1:15). Paul the Apostle echoes the same sentiment when he exclaims, "if in this world only we have hope, we are of all men most miserable" (1 Cor. 15: 19). So let it first be noted that a good life begins by getting in touch with God. Life has meaning when it generates service. Service is the essence of life. To put oneself at the disposal of others is to bring meaning to life, to be a part of society, to bring honor to the Creator. We are "all members one of another" (Rom. 12:5). That means that we are joined in service to one another. We don't all have the same talent, but we all have some talent with which to serve. Want a fulfilling life? Put yourself at the dispos- al of others. Get out of yourself and get involved in serving others. Life has meaning when it is motivated by love. Love is the divine energizer. It brings things about. It generates the motion necessary for everything from good marital relationships, to good congregations of God's people. Actually, what is not moti- vated by love is of little value in the ultimate reality. Love broad- ens, softens, actuates, disciplines, clarifies, joins, repairs, and is behind every sort of human happiness. Love and you'll be loved. Love and you's be blessed -- even when things go wrong. Furthermore, life has meaning when it is pointed in the right direction. "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life," is Jesus' way of saying "point your life toward Me or it will have no real mean- ing." The Hebrew writer must have had this concept in mind when he said we should run the race "with patience, looking to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith." To look in the wrong direction is disastrous, folks! You'll have a wreck for sure. Finally, faith is the substance for giving life real meaning. A live that has been lived without any connection to the life here- after is foolish indeed. More than that, it's a terrible waste! Even the light afflictions are made easier to bear, the disappointments easier to shoulder if there is faith in the Eternal. "Our light afflict-ion worketh for us a far greater and eternal weight of glory, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporal, but the thngs which are not seen are eternal" (2 Cor. 4:17,18). You should know by now that "faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Heb. 11:1). Our faith is the basis for our hope. If we look in the right direction, we will see it -- off in the distance there -- eternal life. Now that's a life worth living! ----- Dee Bowman via Gospel Power, Vol. 16, No. 38, Sept. 20, 2009. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091202/f74c6ed3/attachment-0001.html From GLClair at aol.com Wed Dec 2 07:04:54 2009 From: GLClair at aol.com (GLClair at aol.com) Date: Wed, 2 Dec 2009 08:04:54 EST Subject: [Biblemat] HILLIARD BULLETIN for December 2009 Message-ID: Hilliard Bulletin Published by the church of Christ Meeting at 4840 Cemetery Road - P.O. Box 96 Hilliard, Ohio 43026 Phone: (614) 876-4089 Preacher & Editor: Garreth L. Clair Phone: (614) 850-7252 _glclair at aol.com_ (mailto:glclair at aol.com) FREEDOM FROM SIN Every right thinking person surely has a desire to be free from the stain of sin in their life. It is not surprising that since the events of September 11, 2001 that many people are doing some soul searching. It is a serious matter to suddenly die without having taken time to get ones life right with God. Indeed, we all know that Jesus Christ will be the judge at judgment day - cf., John 12:48, "He that rejects me, and receives not my sayings, hath one that judges him: the word that I spoke, the same shall judge him in the last day." {ASV} Please notice also the statement of Paul in Hebrews 5:8-9, 8 though he was a Son, yet learned obedience by the things which he suffered; 9 and having been made perfect, he became unto all them that obey him the author of eternal salvation; {ASV} HAVE YOU MADE A DECISION YET? If you have not made a decision to become a Christian, following are some facts you need to know - cf., Acts 11:26, "and when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that even for a whole year they were gathered together with the church, and taught much people, and that the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch." {ASV} Yes, the person that has come to Christ on His terms is privileged to wear the name "Christian." It is also true that no one can save you from your sin but God. God will save you if you will come to Him and accept His remedy for your sin, the Scriptural method to receive remission of sin is: ? Hear the gospel --- Romans 10:17 ? Believe the gospel message --- Mark 16:15-16 ? Repent of past sin --- Acts 2:38 ? Confess with the mouth the Son of God {i.e., Jesus Christ} --- Romans 10:10 ? Be baptized: 1. A burial in Water --- Romans 6:1-6 2. For the remission of sin --- Acts 2:38 THE LORD WILL THEN, ADD YOU TO HIS CHURCH Acts 2:47, "praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to them day by day those that were saved." {ASV} --- _glclair at aol.com_ (mailto:glclair at aol.com) ------------------- MANKIND'S BASIC NEED ------------------- TEXT: 2 Timothy 2:1-6, 1 Thou therefore, my child, be strengthened in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things which thou hast heard from me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. 3 Suffer hardship with (me), as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No soldier on service entangles himself in the affairs of (this) life; that he may please him who enrolled him as soldier. 5 And if also a man contend in the games, he is not crowned, except he have contended lawfully. 6 The husbandmen that laboreth must be the first to partake of the fruits. ASV INTRODUCTION: In the above passage, Paul makes it clear that the basic need of every person is to be saved from sin. Throughout this world, mankind, without Jesus Christ, is in a tragic condition, please note the following: I. The Bible describes man's condition, without Christ, in at least six phrases: 1. He is lost -- Luke 19:10, "For the Son of man came to seek and save that which was lost." ASV A. The entire population of the earth is lost. B. Lost, as a city is lost when it falls into the hands of terrorists. C. As a sick person is lost whenever his sickness is terminal. 2. without strength -- Romans 5:6, "For while we were yet weak, in due season Christ died for the ungodly." A. The grace of God is provided for all. B. Even though we are unable to save ourselves, God has made it possible for us to be saved from sin in a cooperative effort. C. God will save us from sin, if we obey Him - cf., Hebrews 5:8-9. 3. Without hope -- Ephesians 2:12, "that ye were at that time separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of the promise, having no hope and without God in the world." ASV 4. Without promise -- Ephesians 2:12, that ye were at that time separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of the promise, having no hope and without God in the world. ASV 5. Without liberty -- John 8:32-34, 32 and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. 33 They answered unto him, we are Abraham's seed, and have never yet been in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, ye shall be made free? 34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily; I say unto you, every one that committeth sin is the bondservant of sin. ASV A. Liberty comes to man through hearing of the truth. B. Without liberty, we are servants of sin. John 8:44, "Ye are of (your) father the devil, and the lusts of your father it is your will to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and standeth not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father thereof." ASV 6. Without life {i.e., spiritually dead} -- Ephesians 2:1, "And you (did he make alive,) when ye were dead through your trespasses and sins," ASV A. Destitute of righteousness. B. Cut off from God, the fountain of life. C. Dead, as the condemned murderer is said to be "a dead man" as he awaits execution. II. Man does not have to remain in this condition. This is only the diagnosis; there is a remedy, a cure: 1. The sinner is lost -- "Christ came to seek and to save." 2. The sinner is without strength -- "Christ died for us." 3. The sinner is without hope or promise -- Ephesians 2:13, "But now in Christ Jesus ye that once were far off are made nigh in the blood of Christ." ASV 4. without Life -- John 10:10, "The thief cometh not, but that he may steal, and kill, and destroy: I came that they may have life, and may have (it) abundantly." ASV John 20:30-31, 30 Many other signs therefore did Jesus in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book: 31 but these are written, that ye may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye may have life in his name. ASV 5. 1 Timothy 2:4, "who would have all men to be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth." ASV III. ARE YOU READY, to be saved from sin, to have strength in Christ, to have hope, to have the promise of everlasting life, to be free from sin, to have liberty in Christ, and to have hope of eternal life? A. All of this is possible for you today. B. Will you come to Christ on His terms: 1. Believe the gospel 2. Repent of your sin 3. Confess Christ as God's Son 4. Be baptized "for remission of sin." ? Through immersion ? As the final act of obedience -- 1 Peter 3:21 C. Arise from the watery grave of baptism a new creature in Christ -- Romans 6:1-6. C. The Lord will add you to His Body {i.e., the church} -- Acts 2:47 NO ONE WILL MISS THIS APPOINTMENT [The end of this universe] The fears of many people today throughout the world are rooted in events that have taken place over the past 60 years. You see back in the World War II days the use of weapons of mass destruction such as poison gases, disease, and the atomic and hydrogen bombs were being developed and were being used in some cases. These weapons of mass destruction were spreading throughout the world from country to country. It was thought by some that the use of these weapons would wipe out mankind from the earth. This was and still is a false expectation on man?s part because God say that HE will destroy the universe in HIS own time. These ideas that man will end his own existence in this universe is impossible because God has said that the destruction of the universe will come as scheduled someday ? cf. 1 Thess. 5:1-4 - 1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. 2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. 3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. 4 but ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. The end of this universe, all that God has created and sustained for all these past 6,000 + years will come to an end at the trumpet of God at the last day ? cf. 2 Peter 3:9-14 - 9 The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. 10 a New Heaven and Earth but the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up. 11 Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat! 13 but according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells. 14 Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, spotless and blameless, (NASU) There will be no 1,000 year reign of Jesus Christ on the earth as is predicted by some religious teachers; there will be no warning, there will be no second chance, no purgatory for some Roman Catholics who are hoping that such a place exists. Indeed, the day will come swiftly, without warning, and the whole event will take place on the last day ? cf. John 6:39-40 - 39 And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. 40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. (KJV) John 11:24-26 - 24 Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. 25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? (KJV) John 12:48 - 48 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day The Bible tells us these things so that we will know that we must make preparations for the after life now. We must not delay our belief and obedience to the instructions of our Lord revealed to us in his Book, the Bible. You can be prepared for that day that will include everyone that has ever lived on this earth; the last day. You see there cannot be but one last day ? will you seek the way of the Lord before that day comes - it is our sincere hope that you will. There will be no survivors to live, work, play, and hope for another day because the end has come! Therefore, dear reader as God spoke to Israel of old --- Amos 4:12-13, 12 Therefore thus will I do unto thee, O Israel: and because I will do this unto thee, prepare to meet thy God, O Israel. 13 For, lo, he that formed the mountains, and createth the wind, and declareth unto man what is his thought, that maketh the morning darkness, and treadeth upon the high places of the earth, The LORD, The God of hosts, is his name. (KJV) _glclair at aol.com_ (mailto:glclair at aol.com) --- October 18, 2009 NOTE REGARDING THE COMING NEW YEAR We encourage each family to plan ahead for the coming year with regard to our GOSPEL MEETINGS. Perhaps many wonderful things may happen in our lives if we pray and live as we ought. Let us be aware of opportunities to grow in our chosen profession and also to grow as Christians ? 2 Peter 3:18. Indeed, let us look forward to this coming year with high hopes for our betterment in all areas of life. May God richly bless our efforts for good and may we encourage one another to godly living. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091202/c2862e6e/attachment-0001.html From chris.gautney at gmail.com Wed Dec 2 14:53:13 2009 From: chris.gautney at gmail.com (Chris Gautney) Date: Wed, 2 Dec 2009 14:53:13 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] Don't Stay Away From Church Because.... Message-ID: <9fd765230912021253m5c12ad63i38ed2c48c86b1ab3@mail.gmail.com> *Don?t Stay Away From Church Because...* 1. You are a poor...There is no admission charge. 2. It rains...Most of us go to work when it rains, our building doesn?t leak. 3. It is hot...Our building has air conditioning. 4. No one invited you...We go to other places we?re not invited. 5. You have little children...We have classes for all ages. 6. You don?t like the preacher...He?s human just as you are. You might not like another either. 7. There are hypocrites in the church...You associate with hypocrites everyday. 8. You have guests in your home...They will admire you for your loyalty if you go anyway. 9. You need a weekend vacation...No one can escape from God. 10. Your clothes are not expensive...You aren?t coming to a fashion show. Consider John the Baptist. 11. Church standards are too high...Are they any higher than the Biblical standards for the church? ~Unknown -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091202/fc2db31a/attachment.html From bgreen at tycom.net Wed Dec 2 18:53:18 2009 From: bgreen at tycom.net (Bill Green) Date: Wed, 2 Dec 2009 18:53:18 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] institutionalism help? Message-ID: Hello again, Does anyone know of (or have written) a workbook on institutionalism, the church treasury, and/or other dividing issues. This topic keeps coming up, and at 36 years of age, really don't know that much about it. We are looking for a workbook so we can have class discussion on these issues. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your time and help. Brotherly, Bill Green Bruce church of Christ Bruce, Ms -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091202/a34a9f34/attachment.html From mcmurray at spiritbuilding.com Thu Dec 3 08:30:34 2009 From: mcmurray at spiritbuilding.com (Carl McMurray) Date: Thu, 3 Dec 2009 09:30:34 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] workbook on institutionalism? Message-ID: <005001ca7425$2d77ac30$88670490$@com> Bill, I wrote a workbook just for this subject. It's called WE'RE DIFFERENT BECAUSE. and you can find it at www.Spiritbuilding.com. Mac Hello again, Does anyone know of (or have written) a workbook on institutionalism, the church treasury, and/or other dividing issues. This topic keeps coming up, and at 36 years of age, really don't know that much about it. We are looking for a workbook so we can have class discussion on these issues. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your time and help. Brotherly, Bill Green Bruce church of Christ Bruce, Ms -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091203/ec911396/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Thu Dec 3 13:03:56 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Thu, 3 Dec 2009 14:03:56 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) MEMBERS OF THE ONE BODY OF CHRIST Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Thursday morn- ing to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an article from my files: MEMBERS OF THE ONE BODY OF CHRIST The New Testament explains Christ's church by using differ- ent figures of speech or picture words. Some of those images that are equated to the church are the flock, the vineyard, the kingdom, the temple or tabernacle, the family or household, and the body. The apostle Paul uses the image of the body to instru- ct the Christians of the chruch of Christ as to the importance of each one of them, and their duties to each other, adn to the one body of Jesus Christ. Understanding the importance of each member and the body of Christ will help the children of God to know how to plea- se their Father in heaven. Paul explained the significance of each member and the equality that exists in the body of Christ, when he wrote: "For as the body is one and has many memb- ers, but all the members of that one body, being many are one body, being many are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body -- whether Jews or Greeks, whether salves or free -- and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. For in fact the body is not one member but many" (1 Cor. 12:12-14). All the members of the body are necessary to the function of the body of Christ. Paul illustrates this lesson by using terminol- ogy like th foot, hand, ear, and eye to describe how each memb- er is essential to the whole body. We can see how each memb- er is necessary when we read: "If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole body were hearing, where would be the smelling? But now God has set the memb- ers, each one them, in the body just as He pleased" (1 Cor. 12:17 and 18). We need each other to function as God has determined No one is to be considered more important than any other mem- ber (1 Cor. 12:22-27). We must all do our part. God has appointed different work- ers with different abilities in the church (1 Cor. 12:28,29). The members of the body have many functions, and each one must do his/her part to bring about a mature and strong body (Eph. 4: 11-16). What can you do? Develop yourself and your abilities through study and practice. You can desire to be useful to the body of Christ and select a ministry to which you can be involv- ed. You can trust that God in His grace has given you a gift in the ministry of serving, teaching, exhorting, giving, leading, and showing mercy (Rom. 12:4-8). It is time to be what God has call- ed you to be. Make no excuses and step out of your fear in the power of the Spirit of God. Jesus desires His body and each member to be alive with zeal, and active in every good work to the glory of His Father in heaven. That means each one of us, as members of His one body are doing the works He has asked us to do every day until He comes again. ------------ Ron Drumm. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091203/e5b30c3e/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Thu Dec 3 13:04:08 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Thu, 3 Dec 2009 14:04:08 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) QUESTION AND ANSWER Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is a question and answ- er from my files. Use to the glory of God. QUESTION: -- What Kind Of Tongues Are Meant In (1 Cor. 12)? ANSWER: -- The apostle Paul writes of various "gifts opf the Holy Spirit" in 1 Cor. 12,13,14. Notice the reading in 1 Cor. 12:7-11. "But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit to profit withal. For to one is given through the Spirit the word of wisdom; and to another the word of knowledge, acc- ording to the same Spirit : to another faith, in the same Spirit; and to another gifts of healings, in the one Spirit; and to another workings of miracles; and to anotehr prophecy; and to another discernings of spirits; to another various kinds of tongues; and to another the interpretations of tongues; but all these worketh the one and the same Spirit, dividing to each one severally even as He will." All of these were miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit. That is, they were given directly by the Holy Spirit and enabled the recip- ient to do things they ordinarily could not. For instance, the gift of prophecy enabled one to "speak for God," for that is what prophecy was. The gift of faith enabled one literally to "move mountains" (Matt. 17:20). The gift of miracles enabled one to do various miraculous things (Acts 3:7,8; 20:9,10; etc.). The gift of tongues dealt with languages. Let us see what they were: The apostles, on Pentecost, were all "filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance...We hear them speaking in our tongues the mighty works of God...Behold, are nto all of these that speak Galileans? And how hear we, every man in our own language wherein we were born?" (Acts 2:4,8,11). Notice that the people heard the apostles speaking "in tongues" -- but they were lang- uages which these people had know from birth. But the apost- les had never had training to learn the languages. The apostle Paul also explains: "Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to the unbelieving" (1 Cor. 14:22). If the unbelieving could not understand them, how could it be a "sign" to them? The apostle Paul goes on to reason thus: "But now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tong- ues, what shall I profit you, unless i speak to you either by way of revelation, or of knowledge, or of prophesying, or of teach- ing?" (1 Cor. 14:6). In other words, if others cannot understand what I am saying, my gift is meaningless to them. This makes it clear that the gift of tongues was to enable one to speak in a lan- guage he had never learned. The apostle Paul goes on to discuss these gifts of the Holy Spirit. "Love never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall be done away; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall be done away. For we know in part, and we prohesy in part; but when that which is perfect is come, that which is in part shall be done away" (1 Cor. 13:8-10). Of the nine "gifts of the Spirit" which he listed in 1 Cor. 12:7-11, the Holy Spirit lists three of these (as representatives of them all), and says they will cease, or be done away. These gifts were each a part of delivering and confirming the Word of God to mankind. When the process was "perfect" (or, complete), then the "parts" were all done away. Note that the Scriptures do not declare that all faith, know- ledge and languages would cease. But that the "gifts of the Spirit" that granted to someone the power to do these things would cease. Today, "faith comes by hearing the Word of God" (Rom. 10:17). Knowledge comes from "studying the Word of God" (2 Tim. 2:15) and the use of languages comes from one studying those languages. But these were "gifts" of the Spirit as recorded in the New Testament times, given y the Holy Spirit for the special purposes of delivering and confirming God's Word for mankind. As we read, "How shall we escape, if we neg- lect so great a salvation? which having at the first been spoken through the Lord, was confirmed unto us by them that heard; God also bearing witness with them, both by signs and wonders and by manifold powers, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit, accord- ing to His own Will" (Heb. 2:3,4). When His Word was delivered, and confirmed by the miracul- ous gifts of the Spirit, there was no further need for those gifts. So, they ceased. The abilities named would no longer be a "gift of the Holy Spirit," but would then have to be acquired through natural means. What were the "tongues" of 1 Cor. 12? They were foreign languages which were spoken by inspired men by the power of the Holy Spirit. This is what amazed the hearers -- that these uneducated (in languages) men were able to speak in languages they had never learned (Acts 2:5-12; 1 Cor. 14:22). If the "tongues" of 1 Cor. 12 were only unintelligible gibberish to the hearers, there would be nothing about them to amaze or con- found the unbelieving hearers. But languages which were spok- in by men who had never learned them would indeed be a "sign to the unbeliever." Which they were. The "tongues" of the Scrip-tures were know languages, but unknown to the speaker as well. Adn the so-called "tongues" of religious people today have absolutely no basis in Scriptures. ---- Clem Thurman in Gospel Minutes, Vol. 58, No. 47, Nov. 20, 2009. (I am acquanted with the use of tongues or languages other than my own. I have had the privilege to live and preach the Gos- pel in several different lands, where the people did not speak my language, neither did I speak theirs. But not being endowed with the power to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave me utterance, I had to use interpreters. I have used as high as four different interpreters in the one sermon that I was endeavoring to teach to the differing tribes that were present. Of course you can see that to have your words spoken by the interpreters to four differing languages would take quite an amount of time to accomplish. Wherein, if the Holy Spirit had miraculously inter- preted my words to all the differing tribes present, it would expedite the time involved. But, I knew that such would not happen in my case, since the miraculous use of tongues not studied, ceased in the first century A.D. JWS). -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091203/8614dc88/attachment-0001.html From shewemail at earthlink.net Thu Dec 3 08:01:12 2009 From: shewemail at earthlink.net (James) Date: Thu, 3 Dec 2009 09:01:12 -0500 (GMT-05:00) Subject: [Biblemat] institutionalism help? Message-ID: <24897634.1259848872849.JavaMail.root@elwamui-rubis.atl.sa.earthlink.net> An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091203/115eb4b4/attachment.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Fri Dec 4 03:19:52 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Fri, 4 Dec 2009 04:19:52 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) SEVEN HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE FAMILIES Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Friday morning to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an artic- le from my files: SEVEN HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE FAMILIES The title above comes from a series of books written by Stephen Covey. The following spiritual habits for godly families do not come from Stephen Covey's book, but instead they come from a much better book, the Bible -- God's Book! The sefen Biblical habits of highly effective families are: serve God together; train eyes and hearts to be pure; enjoy your family relationships; respect one another; keep family life safe and a blessing to all; teach the gift of work; and practice content- ment. If families develop and practice the above habits they will be fruitful and blessed by God. 1. Serve God Together: -- Joshua expressed this important habit clearly, "But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" (Jos. 24:15). Our children need to see their parents wors- hiping and serving God daily, and gathering with the church when it meets for worship. 2. Train Our Eyes And Hearts To Be Pure: -- The Psalmist wrote, "I will walk within my house with a perfect heart, I will set nothing wicked before my eyes" (Psa. 101:2,3). "Watch your eyes, watch your eyes what they see, for there is a Father up above looking down in tender live, watch your eyes what they see" -- this children's song challenges us to purity of behavior. 3. Enjoy Your Family Relationships: -- The family is a gift from God. Another Psalm declares, "Behold, children are a heri- tage from the Lord" (Psa. 127:3). The family is a relationship of fun and joy practiced every day to the glory of God. 4. Respect One Another: -- Every relationship of the family involves respect and love. Wives are to respect their husbands and husbands are to love and cherish their wives. Children are to honor their parents in everything (Col. 3:18-21). 5. Keep Family Life Safe: -- Family life is a safe haven for ever- y member, a place where one finds protection and love. Notice the virtuous wofe understood this lifestyle (Prov. 31:11,12,27). 6. Teach The Gift Of Work: -- "Every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor -- it is the gift of God" (Eccl. 3:12,13). It should always be the routine of a family to be active in training children to be workers in every aspect of life. 7. Practice Contentment: -- The family is a place of satisfact- ion. Needs are to be met and all blessings are understood to have come from God. Contentment is something we must learn (Phil. 4:11) especially in the home, or we will never truly be happy. May our families be blessed by God as they practice good, spiritual habits! --------- Ron Drumm. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091204/e9d1e1c0/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Fri Dec 4 03:20:03 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Fri, 4 Dec 2009 04:20:03 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) QUESTION AND ANSWER Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is another question and answer from my files. Use to the glory of God. QUESTION: -- What Type Of Sermon Should Be Preached? ANSWER: -- When the church comes together to worship God, it seems that most of the preaching is done for the membership. If that be the case, how can the alien sinner ever learn what he needs to do in order to obey God and become a Christian? The Book of Acts is full of the kinds of sermons tht are need- ed. Peter and the other apostles preached on Pentecost (Acts 2) using a great deal of Old Testament Scriptures for an audience made up of Jews, from all around the Roman Empire, that were familiar with the Old Testament Scriptures, or at least they should be. In Athens Greece (Acts 17) Paul preached to a Gentile audience who did not share his belief in the inspiration of the Old Testament Scriptures. So, Paul preached using the logic and reasoning style of the Greeks, even quoting from their poets. When Philip met the Ethiopian Nobleman (Acts 8) he used the very Scripture that the Eunuch was reading from in order to teach this man about the Christ. He was already a wors- iper of God, but he needed to know about Jesus Christ, the Messiah. So, it seems tht the New Testament preachers used sermons that fit the audience to whom they were preaching. If the people hearing believed in the inspiration of the Bible, they used the Bible. If they did not believe in the inspiration of the Bible, then they were prone to argue and teach from other sources. The goal was to reach and teach the lost by whatever means possib- le. I believe, therefore, that preachers today should do the same. The goal is to teach the particular audience, according to their state of mind and practice at the time, what it needs at any given circumstance. (I have preached in the bush country of Nigeria, to peoplewho were being led by pagan priests and priestesses that that wore bones in their noses and ears, and that left food for their pagan gods. Where does a preacher need to start his teaching under such circumstances? JWS). (I began by show- ing that the true God was not one that needed to be fed by human hands. And that He did not need to be served by human hands, but needed to be obeyed from the heart to every revelat- ion that was presented from Him through the Bible, His Word, JWS). The purpose of Christians assembling is plainly explained: "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stim- ulate one another to love and good works, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encourag- ing one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near" (Heb. 10:23-25). Christians assemble to motivate each other to stay active and faithful in our service to God. So, a preacher must consider this a priority as he preaches to an aud- ience made up of mostly people that have been saved from their sins by obeying the first principles of the oracles of God. What they need to hear will be different from that which needs to be taught to the outsider, or the one that has never learned and obeyed the first principles of the oracles of God. (I remember preaching to a congregation of the Lord's people in Australia, many years ago. The congregation met on Sunday morning to worship and serve the Lord as Christians, they did not invite outsiders to this particular service, which practiced partaking of the Lord's Supper and Giving of their means, etc. But a service was held in the afternoon where visitors were invited and where first principles were taught, JWS). Finally, it is never a bad thing, in any and every service of the church, to visit the first principles of the oracles of God. Actually Peter seems to say as much: "Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain of His calling and choosing you; for as long as you practice things, you will never stumble, for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. There- fore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you. I consider it right, as long as I am in this dwelling, to stir you up by way of reminder, know- ing hat the laying aside of my earthly dwelling is imminent, as also our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me. And I will also be diligent that at any time after my departure you will be able to call these things to mind" (2 Pet. 1:10-15). We want to make our salvation a sure thing. We do that by reminding ourselves of what the basics are. Peter says he will be ready to remind them as often as needed. And, he reminds them, he will soon be gone from them, and that they will need to be able to revisit these issues confidently without his help. So, a sermon should fit the needs of the hearers first and foremost. But, according to Peter, even the saved need to hear again and again, the steps to salvation while we hear, again and again, the steps to salvation the facts of our salvation will always be before us and we will be able to tell others the reason of the hope that is within us. And to advise and encourage them to do the same things in their learning and obeying Christ. ------- This is adapted from an article by David Thurman, in Gospel Min- utes, Vol. 58, No. 47, Nov. 20, 2009. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091204/e540f428/attachment-0001.html From GLClair at aol.com Fri Dec 4 19:10:48 2009 From: GLClair at aol.com (GLClair at aol.com) Date: Fri, 4 Dec 2009 20:10:48 EST Subject: [Biblemat] Article - DO YOUR OWN THING Message-ID: DO YOUR OWN THING THE CONDITION OF HUMANITY TODAY The concept inherent in the subject heading at the top; is the theme of the vast majority of people today on earth. When we look at the statistics of crimes such as murder, adultery, theft, breaking and entering the homes of others for criminal purposes, politicians buying votes or selling the position to the highest bidder, the causes of bank failures in America (i.e. failure of banking officials and overseers of banking in America); you have an idea where the ?do your own thing? has led us in today?s society. Indeed, our prisons are full of law-breakers, our hospitals are overloaded with people with alcoholic problems, drug related problems, emotional problems, and race hatred problems, and this is just a sampling of the conditions that exist in our country and also in other countries. IS THERE A SOLUTION? Yes, there is a solution but the population of the world will not accept it and adjust their life (i.e. wants, emotions, morals, self-control, disposition, and general approach as defined in the guidelines of sanity and real hope in this world). The solution to all man?s problems is still contained in one source; that source is the perfect truth (cf. John 8:32 ? John 17:17) that is contained in the Bible (i.e. the written Word of God). There can be no earthly solution to man?s problems that we have revealed in the previous paragraph unless they are ready to abandon the worldly life and aspiration apparent in the majority of people currently residing in this world. The real solution is not a new concept or a new fad of some kind; but is a solution instituted for our original parents, Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden some 6,000 years ago. Adam and Eve were placed in a perfect environment in every respect and were instructed to care for the garden and all of the Creator?s paradise that they had for home cf. Genesis 1-2. They choose to listen and follow the advice of the evil one and were dismissed from paradise with all the goodness and benevolence of their Creator (cf. Genesis 3). MAN HAS BEEN HIS OWN WORST ENEMY FROM HIS ORIGIN >From man?s creation there have been continued rejection of God?s instructions that are (i.e. have been) best for his existence here in the world and for eternity. Yet, today we see man?s desires rejecting from God and the vast majority pursuing worldliness, sensuality, immoral behavior, and insanely dangerous uses of all forms of drugs (i.e. prescription and illegal). It is possible to trace man?s origins and his habits throughout his history from the only accurate and reliable written history. From the beginning (Genesis 1-3) we see that the very first husband and wife rejected the good that God had intended for them by choosing to follow evil rather than God?s way. It was not very long till man had so degraded himself in mind and body that God sent a great flood upon the earth to destroy all of the human family except Noah, his wife, three sons and their wives cf. Genesis 6:5-9:1). Again man began to turn away from god after a short while and fell into idolatry and many form of evil, also rejecting God?s instructions. God determined to work out His plan to make it possible for mankind to restore their relationship with their Creator. God selected a man (i.e. Abram) to be the beginning of a national religion through which the Messiah would eventually come ? Reference: Gen. 12:1-5 - 1 Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will show thee: 2 And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shall be a blessing: 3 And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. 4 So Abram departed, as the LORD had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran. 5 And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had gotten in Haran ; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came. The seed of Abraham were the Israelites (i.e. Jews). The arrangement with Abraham and his family (i.e. both immediate and future) included [1] the coming of Messiah through the lineage, [2] the fulfilling of God?s Plan {including the Law of Moses}, and [3] the establishment of a new kingdom (i.e. [4] the church of Christ with [5] Jesus as its head and [6] as King of Kings). References: [1] Acts 3:18-20 [2] Matt 5:17-18 - 17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Rom. 2:27-29 - 27 and shall not un-circumcision which is by nature, if it fulfill the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law? 28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: 29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God. KJV [3] Matt. 16:18-20 - 18 And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. KJV Matt. 18:18 - Verily I say unto you, whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. KJV [4] Matthew 16:18 - And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. KJV [5] Acts 4:10-12 - 10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 11 This is the stone which was set at naught of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. 12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. KJV Eph. 1:22-23 - 22 and hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all. KJV Eph. 5:23 - for the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body. KJV Col. 1:18-19 - 18 and he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fullness dwell; KJV [6] Jesus is reigning now as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Jesus will continue to reign as King until He delivers up the kingdom to the Father at the judgment. 1 Tim. 6:14-16 - 14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: 15 Which in his times he shall show, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; 16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honor and power everlasting. Amen. KJV Rev 17:14 - These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful KJV 1 Cor 15:19-28 19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 20 But now is Christ raised from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21 for since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 for as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. 24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25 for he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 27 For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith, all things are put under him; it is manifest that he is accepted, which did put all things under him. 28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. KJV CONCLUSION: The facts about man?s relationship to God in this present world and the importance of understanding God?s plan is paramount. Without understanding mankind will surely fail to turn to God and seek his good but with wisdom and understanding man may be able to find his/her place in the scheme of all things. May God bless our study of His dealings with us so that we may understand and seek His Way (i.e. the Bible shows us the way). _glclair at aol.com_ (mailto:glclair at aol.com) Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091204/509324d1/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Sat Dec 5 05:19:53 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Sat, 5 Dec 2009 06:19:53 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) GOD HAS SPOKEN Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Saturday morn- ing to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an article from my files: GOD HAS SPOKEN Thankfulness is a part of the character of Christians. "In everything give thanks, for this is the Will of God in Christ Jesus for you" (1 Thes. 5:18). We should give thanks daily to God, for we are blessed daily, continuously, throughout our lives. "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with Whom there is no variation or shadow of turning" (Jas. 1:17). Our thanks, therefore, are first directed to God, and we do not need a directive from human government to tell us to rejoice in the blessings that come from God. What we are and what have are endowments from God. God gave us life, body, mind, and an immortal soul. He has given us health, opportunities, and time to live and cultivate our capabilities. He also has give us knowledge of the purpose of life and a Divine Standard (The Word of God) to guide and govern our conduct in every aspect of life (2 Tim. 3:16,17). Too often, credit is given to human government for our sustenance and well-being. Government's function is to punish wrong-doers and honor those who do right (Rom. 13). It is incapable of sustaining life. We ought to be thankful for government that does its function well; and we should pray for civil authorities everywhere, that they may accomplish God's purpose (1 Tim. 2: 1-4). God, not government, can redeem us, can deliver our souls can offer eternal life, can define the purpose for human exist- ence, and can provide a standard of conduct that will bring joy and peace to us in this life and in the life to which is to come. In this troubled time in our nation, let us put our truse in Him Who truly sustains us, in good times and bad. Let us urge all men to remember God, to turn to His ways, for the only hope for this nation is that she rid herself of the corruption and evil that has taken control of the lives of so many people, both in the pub-lic sector and in individual lives. Let us give thanks to God for righteous people, who are the strength of every nation because God is with them and has spoken to them. ----- Gilbert Alexander -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091205/3afe223b/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Sat Dec 5 05:20:06 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Sat, 5 Dec 2009 06:20:06 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) QUESTION AND ANSWER Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is another question and answer from my files. Use to the glory of God. QUESTION: -- What Is The Second Death Mentioned In Rev. 20: 6; and Psa. 37:10? ANSWER: -- The "second death" in Rev. 20:6 is revealed most clearly in (vss. 10,14) of the same chapter. Let us note the reading: "Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath not power... The devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever... This is the second death, even the lake of fire." Eternal punishment, in fire, is the Lord's topic in Matt. 25:31-33, "But when the Son of Man shall come in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then shall He sit on the throne of His glory: and before Him shall be gather- ed all the nations: and He shall separate them one from another, as the shepherd separateth the sheep from the goats; and He shall set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left." But let us continue the reading: "Then shall He say unto them on the left hand; Depart from Me, ye cursed into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels...And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal" (Matt. 25:41,46). God tells us, then, that the "second death" is eternal punish- ment in the "fire prepared for the devil and his angels." I believe every reader can understand that. Some may choose to disbel- ieve it, but all can surely understand it. Christ refers to hell in Mk. 9:48, "Where their worm dieth nto, and the fire is not quench- ed." Again, the Lord Jesus in Matt. 13:41,42 reveals the destiny of the unrighteous: "The Son of Man shall send forth His angels and they shall gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; and shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth." Notice that He does not say, "Into the furnace of fire, where they shall be burned up." In that furnace of fire there is "wailing and gnashing of teeth." This shows that there is consciousness, awareness and pain. Other passages show the same (Lk. 16; Rev. 14:11). The querist seems to think that the only meaning of death is physical unconsciousness. But that is just not true. God told Adam and Eve about the tree of knowledge of good and evil in Gen. 2:17, "Thou shalt nto eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die." The apostle Paul said to Christians in Eph. 2:1, "You did He make alive, when ye were dead through your trespasses and sins." Again in (vs. 5), "Even when we were dead through our trespasses, He made us alive together with Christ." And in 1 Tim.5:6, God said, "She that giveth herself to pleasure is dead while she liveth." These were all "alive" in the physical sense, but all were dead spiritually. The simple meaning of death is separation. Thus, "The body without the spirit is dead" (Jas. 2:26). But one is spiritually dead when he is separated from God by his sins. And when one chooses, throughout his life on earth, to reject God, he will be separated from God eternally. And tht is the second death. But one spiritually dead may still be alive in other ways (Gen. 2:17; Eph. 2:1; 1 Tim. 5:6). So may one be alive, and conscious, but be eternally separated from God in that "eternal fire, prepared for the devil and his angels." And that is precisely what God teaches in the Bible. When the apostle Paul speaks of the return of the Lord Jesus in 2 Thes. 1:7-9, he writes: "And to you that are afflicted rest with us, at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of His power in flaming fire, rendering vengean-ce to them that know not God, and to them that obey not the gos- pel of our Lord Jesus: who shall suffer punishment, even eternal destruction from the face of the Lord and from the glory of His might." That is the same "second death" that is called the "lake of fire" where Satan and those who serve him will be punis- hed for eternity (Rev. 20:10-14; Matt. 25:41). Just as Adam and Eve could die, and still be alive and conscious (Gen. 2:17); just as the Ephsians could be dead, yet consciously alive; just as the pleasure-seeker could be "dead while she liveth" (1 Tim. 5:6) just so one an suffer the "second death" and still be conscious of the punishment and the pain of that eternal fire. Whose side am I on? Well, I believe what God says about eternal punishment. And I refuse to label God a tyrant (or "fiend" as another letter stated) simply because He allows man to choose where he will spend eternity. No one will be lost be- cause God wants him to be lost. Anyone who suffers eternal punishment in hell-fire will do so IN SPITE of God's character, not because of it! God wants us all to be saved (1 Tim. 2:3,4; 2 Pet. 3:9). But when anyone chooses, of his own volition, to re- ject God and His Word, God allows him to make that choice. But each must then give account to God for the choice he has made (Rom. 14:12). ------ Adapted from an article by Clem Thurman in Gospel Minutes, Vol. 58, No. 47, Nov. 20, 2009. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091205/21171495/attachment-0001.html From wswalker310 at juno.com Sat Dec 5 08:20:32 2009 From: wswalker310 at juno.com (Wayne S Walker) Date: Sat, 5 Dec 2009 08:20:32 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] hymn study, "Hide You in the Blood " Message-ID: <20091205.082036.2308.1.wswalker310@juno.com> Wayne Walker here with another weekly hymn study. 12/5/09 ?HIDE YOU IN THE BLOOD? ?But now in Christ Jesus ye are made nigh by the blood of Christ? (Eph. 2:13) INTRO.: A song which helps us to recall that it is by the blood of Christ that we have been made nigh to God is ?Hide You in the Blood? (#194 in Sacred Selections of the Church). The text and the tune both have usually been identified as anonymous. However, as a result of further research, the text is now attributed to L. McHan, about whom I have been able to find very little information except that Hymnary.org lists him as the author of the following songs: ?Go unto nations, far and near;? ?Good news to all who will believe;? O go not away, dear friend, unsaved;? Shall we sing again together;? There's a pathway made straight;? ?Words of friends to me are precious;? and ?Ye shall seek, but shall not find Me.? Further research also attributes the tune to John P. Ballew, about whom again I have been able to find very little information. Hymnary.org lists him as the author of one hymn text, ?Thou art gone, our precious loved one,? that appeared in the 1907 Sonnets of Praise edited by Emmet S. Dean for the Trio Music Co. of Waco, TX. A website for the city of Mayfield, KY, about its Mapelwood Cemetery had the following note: ?As recent as 1994, the story of how James A. Wright was stabbed to death during a church service at Wrights Chapel Church by John P. Ballew. According to the visitor, James Wright was baby-sitting for John Ballew's grandson, James Thaxton Beadles. The grandson was left unattended by Mr. Wright and ran off to swim in Mayfield Creek with the ?Burton boys? and drowned. The United States Federal Census for Charleston District, Christ Church Parish, South Carolina, in 1840 shows a John P. Ballew who seems to be listed among ?Males 60-70.? And Civil War records list a John P Ballew, First Confederate Infantry with the 1st Confederate Regiment, Georgia Volunteers. I have no idea whether any of these is related to the composer. I have been able to trace ?Hide You in the Blood? with the first stanza as ?Come to this shelter, safe retreat? back as far as The Gospel Garner published by the Trio Music Co. of Waco, TX, in 1903. It also appeared in Hymns of Victory, Parts 1 and 2 edited by David Elijah Dortch and published by the Dortch Pub. Co. of Columbia, TN, in 1905. Hymnary.org attributes the arrangement which transposes the first and second stanzas to begin with ?Come from the loathsome way of sin,? adds the word ?O? to the chorus, and makes a few other minor alterations to Hampton Sewell. However, most books attribute it to Robert E. Winsett, and its earliest appearance seems to be in Songs of Pentecostal Power, Complete edited by Winsett for the R. E. Winsett Co. of Ft. Smith, AR, in 1908. Winsett also provided two additional stanzas. Among hymnbooks published by members of the Lord?s church during the twentieth century for use in churches of Christ, the original version of the song appeared in the 1965 Great Christian Hymnal No. 2 edited by Tillit S. Teddlie. Today, the Winsett version may be found in Sacred Selections, and the original version in the 2007 Sacred Songs of the Church edited by William D. Jeffcoat. The song urges each individual to come to the blood of Christ for its various blessings. I. Stanza 1 (#2 in the Winsett version) says that the blood of Christ provides shelter ?Come to this shelter (Winsett?the shelter?s), safe retreat, Hide you in the blood of Jesus; Come, for the storms around you beat, Hide you in the blood of Jesus.? A. God wants to provide us with a shelter: Ps. 61:3 B. In this shelter, we can be safe: Ps. 1129:117 C. The reason why we need such a shelter is that the storms around us beat, symbolizing the trials of life: Ps. 55:8 II. Stanza 2 (#1 in the Winsett version) says that the blood of Christ enables us to be free from sin ?Come from the loathsome ways (Winsett?way) of sin, Hide you in the blood of Jesus; Come, for the Lord will take you in, Hide you in the blood of Jesus.? A. All responsible human beings need to come from the loathsome ways of sin because all have sinned: Rom. 3:23 B. These ways should be loathsome because to us because they lead to death: Rom. 6:23 C. However, the Lord has promised to take us in if we come to Him to seek redemption through His blood: Matt. 11:28-30 III. Stanza 3 says that the blood of Christ provides protection ?Come, for the dangers hover near, Hide you in the blood of Jesus; Come, He?ll protect you from all fear, Hide you in the blood of Jesus.? A. As long as we live in this world, dangers, especially to our souls in the form of temptations, hover near: Jas. 1:13-15 B. However, if we turn to Christ and His blood, He?ll protect or keep us: Jude v. 24 C. Thus, we shall never have any reason to fear: 2 Tim. 1:7 IV. Stanza 4 says that the blood of Christ provides cleansing ?Come, for your sins the Lord has bled, Hide you in the blood of Jesus; Come, though they be like crimson red, Hide you in the blood of Jesus.? A. We need cleansing because our sins separate us from God: Is. 59:1-2 B. God has provided this cleansing in that the Lord has bled or died for our sins: 1 Cor. 15:3 C. Therefore, even though they be like crimson red, they can be as white as snow: Isa. 1:18 V. Stanza 5 (by Winsett) says that the blood of Christ provides safety ?Come, there is safety in the blood, Hide you in the blood of Jesus; Now plunge beneath the crimson flood, Hide you in the blood of Jesus.? A. Because the blood of Christ provides cleansing, it gives us safety: Ps. 12:5 B. However, to receive this safety, we must plunge beneath the crimson flood by being baptized into His death: Rom. 6:3-4 C. When we do this, we receive the benefits of His blood which was shed for many for the remission of sins: Matt. 26:28, Acts 2:38 VI. Stanza 6 (by Winsett) says that the blood of Christ provides grace ?Come now, believing in the Lord, Hide you in the blood of Jesus; Trusting His grace and precious word, Hide you in the blood of Jesus.? A. What leads us to seek the cleansing and safety of Jesus?s blood is believing in Him: Jn. 8:24 B. By coming to Him, we show that we are trusting Him to save us by God?s grace: Eph. 2:8-9 C. Trusting in His word means that we will obey Him: Heb. 5:8-9 CONCL.: The chorus continues to exhort us to hide in the blood because of the storms of life. ?(O) Hide you in the blood For the storms are raging high; (O) Hide you in the blood, Till the dangers pass you by.? If you notice that the first and third line of the original stanzas all begin with the word ?come.? If one wanted to be consistent, he could alter the third line in each of Winsett?s stanzas to read, ?Come, plunge beneath the crimson flood? and ?Come, trust His grace and precious word.? In any event, because all of us have to deal with the problem of sin in our lives, and God made provision for it by the death of Christ, we should admonish one another saying, ?Hide You in the Blood.? Brotherly, Wayne S. Walker 503 S. Jefferson St. Salem, IL 62881 home phone: (618) 548-6286 cell phone: (618) 292-2694 e-mail: wswalker310 at juno.com website: www.defenderoftruth.com Notes: Other hymn studies are available at the Defender of Truth website. Also, some of my previous hymn studies are now included in book that I have written entitled Songs of Zion. It can be ordered from the publisher by calling 1-800-423-2484 or going to www.faith-facts.com . And I have a Hymn Studies blog at http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/hymnstudies/ . In addition, since this has been called to my attention, I now feel it necessary to include this disclaimer with each message. As owner of this list, I have nothing to do with the ads and links that Yahoogroups sends out with the Hymn of the Day posts nor do I have any control over them. I do not necessarily approve of them and I do not always endorse those who have placed them with Yahoogroups. ____________________________________________________________ Hotel Hotel pics, info and virtual tours. Click here to book a hotel online. http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2141/c?cp=6w8zeBwETBRYStzAet6U-wAAJ1AqWLnxUT_Og0R1xxm43-TkAAYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADNAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATRAAAAAA= -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091205/eed72b35/attachment-0001.html From disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Sat Dec 5 12:29:13 2009 From: disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com (Ethan R. Longhenry) Date: Sat, 5 Dec 2009 13:29:13 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] B:> Good News for Norwalk: Volume IV, Number 49: December 06, 2009 Message-ID: Good News for Norwalk For I am not ashamed of the good news, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. (Romans 1:16) A publication of the church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio Volume IV, Number 49: December 06, 2009 -------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 John 4:1-3: Testing the Spirits Beloved, believe not every spirit, but prove the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: and every spirit that confesseth not Jesus is not of God: and this is the spirit of the antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it cometh; and now it is in the world already (1 John 4:1-3). John has manifested many concerns for his fellow Christians in 1 John. He wants to make sure that believers recognize that they are to walk in the light, and not the darkness, to not sin, and to follow the Savior and practice righteousness (1 John 1:1-2:6, 3:1-10). He fervently exhorts Christians to love one another, that "new old commandment," for without that love, none can be saved (1 John 2:7-11, 3:11-24). Another primary concern for John has been the prevalence of false teachers, especially those of the Gnostic variety, and the need for believers to resist their error and to stand firm for the truth (1 John 2:12-29). He returns to this last concern in 1 John 4:1-3. John begins this section with the exhortation to "prove" or "test" the "spirits" to see whether "they are of God" (1 John 4:1). "Spirits" here most likely have reference to spiritual powers of influence that are either inspired by God or Satan (cf. 1 Timothy 4:1, Hebrews 1:14, Revelation 1:4). These "spirits" are believed to be the "inspiration" or influence upon people and the things that they are teaching. The idea of this examination, therefore, is to ascertain whether the source of the teachings comes from God or from Satan, and the standard for that test involves that which God has already clearly revealed: in the days of John, such would involve the Scriptures that existed and the work of the Spirit in those days (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:10); today, our standard for such examinations is the Scriptures (2 Timothy 3:16-17). John's exhortation is as valuable now as it was when it was first penned, for the forces of darkness have not ceased promoting false doctrines. The only trustworthy standard that cannot fail us is that which God has already revealed, and we must put all things to the test by that standard. John then identifies his primary concern: does the teacher believe and confess that Jesus Christ came in the flesh? If he confesses that, he is of God; if he denies it, he is of the antichrist (1 John 4:2-3). John earlier spoke of the "antichrists," those who departed from the faith, in 1 John 2:14-23. They are the ones who deny that Jesus is the Christ. Here John seems to envision "the antichrist" as a demonic or evil spirit who is influencing the Gnostic heretics-- a far cry from the "antichrist" envisioned by modern dispensational premillennialists. The "antichrist" here might be Satan himself. It is unwise for us here, as we have seen in previous passages (cf. 1 John 3:1-9, etc.), to make what John is saying absolute. There have been plenty of people throughout time who have confessed that Jesus is the Christ and that He came in the flesh and yet have espoused false teachings (cf. Acts 15:1-29, Galatians). Instead, we must recognize that John is speaking clearly and forcefully about the Gnostics and their teachings. The Gnostics retained plenty of Hellenistic philosophical influences and therefore could not come to grips with the idea that God would manifest Himself in the flesh, die, and be raised again in that flesh, as the Gospel message confessed (cf. 1 Corinthians 15). Therefore, they denied that Jesus came in the flesh, and that the man Jesus was the Christ. Instead, they taught that the god Christ came and only appeared, or seemed, to be flesh, but really was not of the flesh. This view is called docetism, from the Greek word dokeo, "to seem." In this view, the Christ was never really a man, and He did not die on the cross; Simon of Cyrene, or someone else, was the one who died. If Christ did not really die, there was no real need for a resurrection. That was fine for the Gnostics, since they despised the flesh anyway, and had no desire for the resurrection of the body. Such teachings made a mockery of the entire Christian message and emptied it of its power. Those who proclaimed "Christ and Him crucified" stressed His life, death, and resurrection, indicating that if Jesus was not really the Christ, did not really die, and was not really bodily raised from the dead, Christians have hoped in vain, they are still in their sins, and are of all people most to be pitied (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:12-19). Since the entire Christian message depends on the belief that Jesus is the Christ in the flesh, the only way that one could truly be a believer in God and Christ was to confess this. Any who do not confess this must be rejected-- this much John makes clear, and we can sympathize with his concern. Let us not be of the spirit of the antichrist, but of the Holy Spirit, believe that Jesus is the Christ who came in the flesh, and serve Him today! Ethan R. Longhenry evangelist at norwalkchurch.org -------------------------------------------------------------------- The church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio Thank you for reading the electronic version of our bulletin, Good News for Norwalk. If you live in Norwalk or happen to be traveling in the Norwalk area, we would certainly love to have you visit one of our assemblies! Our location: 386 North Edgewood Drive (just off US 250 just north of Norwalk's city limits) Norwalk, Ohio 44857 Our assemblies: Sunday morning assembly: 10:30am Sunday evening assembly: 6:00pm Our Bible studies: Sunday morning Bible study: 9:30am Wednesday evening Bible study: 7:00pm -------------------------------------------------------------------- For More Information If you have any questions or comments about anything you have read here, or desire more information, please contact our evangelist, Ethan Longhenry, at evangelist at norwalkchurch.org. Ethan R. Longhenry / disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Evangelist, church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio [norwalkchurch.org] Homepage: deusvitae.com AIM: Deus Vitae / ICQ: 28317056 Y! IM: discipuliiesus Spiritual Manna A biweekly devotional for your life. http://www.deusvitae.com/faith/manna From crxtra at gmail.com Sat Dec 5 17:21:20 2009 From: crxtra at gmail.com (Steven C. Harper) Date: Sat, 5 Dec 2009 16:21:20 -0700 Subject: [Biblemat] A> No Need To Fear Message-ID: <000001ca7601$a8eb7ad0$fac27070$@com> No Need To Fear Almost every week, I read some message from a fellow believer who is lamenting the economy, the perceived intrusion of the federal government into areas they do not desire, terrorist threats [real or imagined], illegal immigration, pollution, global warming, or some other "hot topic" that is making the rounds in the news talk shows, and the Internet. Some of the messages and articles I read are genuine concerns for the moral condition of our society and the immorality being imposed on godly people, but much of it is, I must say, unwarranted fear. Maybe we have forgotten who we are and who it is we serve? I do not know the reason for fear for everyone, but I do know that some of the fears being expressed publicly seem to be driven more by talk shows hosts, newspaper columnists, and fear-mongerers who make a living selling you the 'answer' to your fears. Some of those pushing the fear, strangely, are ones who claim to have faith in God, and that is what is simply inexplicable to me. I can see no other possible explanation for these individuals pushing fear on society and their churches other than the not-so-remote possibility these "men of God" also have something to sell you to alleviate your fears. But the answer to our fears come not from a bottle, a pill, psychotherapy, or a best-selling book, and it will most certainly not come from expertly-crafted laws and or craftier politicians; freedom from fear comes from one source, and that is God. In case we may have forgotten some noteworthy attributes of the God we claim to serve, I beg your attention for just a few minutes in an effort to alleviate your fears - free of charge - by pointing you to the true source of peace and absence of fear: God. God Knows Our Needs. One reason the people of God should not fear is because He knows our every need and situation. One particularly clear example is when Hagar was sent away by Sara because of the jealousy caused by her motherhood; when she wandered in the Wilderness of Beersheba with Ishmael and was in desperation, and angel of God said to her, "What ails you, Hagar? Fear not, for God has heard the voice of the lad where he is" (Gen. 21:17) Though the situation was dire and desperate, Hagar did not need to fear she would die because God was watching over her and knew her need - and promised provision. In the new Testament, Jesus - when instructing His disciples how to pray - reminded us, ".your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him" (Matt. 6:8). Yes, we should pray, but with faith and not fear or doubt (cf. Jas. 1:6-8). We should live with faith and not fear and doubt, too. Too many people who claim to have faith in God and Christ seem to be failing to demonstrate it by their deeds and words, citing a fear of some sort of lack as their reason for working their secular jobs when they should be worshiping their God. Jesus also told us in the Sermon on the Mount, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you" (Matt. 6:33). Do we actually believe those words or do we fear not having enough? With God, there is no reason to fear! God Will Give Us Victory. Much of the fear expressed today has to do with the increasing ungodliness and pressure in society to conform and accept the ungodly way of life [or at least to never criticize it]. Many are feeling this pressure to conform or be silent and they fear retribution by other individuals or, now, our own government officials and institutions. This fear has some threatening anarchy, some are openly promoting secession, and some are simply talking about moving to some remote location and locking themselves in some sort of fortified compound similar to the one we remember in Waco from a few years back. But it is all unwarranted. When the people of God stood at the edge of the Promised Land [so called because God had promised long before that day that He would give it to them; it was a certainty], they feared the people who were in the land, cowering at the giants who lived there and calling for new leaders to take them back to Egypt - the place where they had been slaves! But Joshua and Caleb stood before the people and reminded them of God's promise and His protection, exhorting them, "Only do not rebel against the Lord, nor fear the people of the land, for they are our bread; their protection has departed from them, and the Lord is with us. Do not fear them" (Num. 14:9). The confidence rested where it rightly should have been: in God. Today, our enemy is not - I repeat, not - a fleshly one (2nd Cor. 10:3-6), but our spiritual enemies sometimes manifest themselves in the flesh (2nd Cor. 11:13-15) when they oppose us and attempt to make a godly life seem unpleasant, undesirable, or even impossible. That does not mean we take up a literal, fleshly fight against them, but neither does it mean we should fear because we live in the flesh and may suffer real consequences for daring to withstand their efforts. The apostle Paul was one who suffered often [physically] at the hands of fleshly enemies, but consider his attitude in a time of what many would call a depressing and stressful situation. While imprisoned, Paul would write to his brethren at Philippi, ".in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better" (Phlp. 1:20-23). You see, it doesn't matter if our earthly [but spiritual] enemies "win" by taking our lives because, ultimately we win because we die in Christ! If you suffer a little because of your faith, rejoice instead (1st Pet. 4:12, 13)! God Will Forgive. Sometimes, we let the lure of the worldly life get to us and we fall for "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life" (1st John 2:15, 16) and sin - even as people of God. It is then that we may allow ourselves to get discouraged and even a little fearful, thinking that God is just going to cut us off forever and reject us altogether and without any further hope. Maybe we start thinking, "I've failed God so many times, He can't possibly forgive me again!" Maybe we are afraid He really hasn't forgiven of us of all those other times. But such is but the devil's tool of doubt working once again to keep us enslaved to him! Once again, we look back to the example of God's people at a time when they foolishly rejected God from being their only king and asked that they have a king like the nations around them (1st Sam. 8). God granted their desire, but warned them of what they would suffer under the hand of an earthly king, after which the people said to Samuel, "Pray for your servants to the Lord your God, that we may not die; for we have added to all our sins the evil of asking a king for ourselves" (1st Sam. 12:19). But Samuel calmed their fears, reminding them, "Do not fear. You have done all this wickedness; yet do not turn aside from following the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart" (v. 20). The answer to their fear: true repentance! In the same way, people of God who sin today do not have to fear utter rejection by God because we have failed Him; then is the time to confess those sins in prayer to Him, knowing "He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" when we do so (1st John 1:9). Do we "deserve" it? Of course not! But that is beauty and awesomeness of the grace and mercy of our Lord, giving us not what we deserve, but what He has promised because of His love for us! Though the world is a fearful place, the people of God have no need to fear! -- Steven Harper -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091205/b95d75b4/attachment-0001.html From tssullivan at charter.net Sat Dec 5 21:16:02 2009 From: tssullivan at charter.net (T. Sean Sullivan) Date: Sat, 5 Dec 2009 21:16:02 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] The Messenger Vol 004 Iss 048 Message-ID: <915D4A8723D24DE090BA2CBF8CDC8E5B@sean2e3f41f1ba> Introduction: With the over 1000 ?differing churches? in America, we are set out on a search. Our goal is not to find the ?church of our choosing??we must be determined to know which church God chooses. Since the New Testament clearly condemns false religion and declares that God will not accept those who practice false religion, we must set our minds on discovering and doing what God desires. We have thus far established that there is a ?pattern? to be followed (2 Timothy 1:13). This being the case we should only see exact copies among all ?believers?. This is surely not what we see today, is it? On the road of discovery we have the pattern in hand to measure all possibilities and find the right fit?in accordance to the pattern. One point that is clearly established in the pattern of sound words is the ?form? of the church. Today the true church will remain in form exactly as the pattern?so we again focus our search. Let?s get to the scriptures and consider the form of the ?church? in this our fourth lesson. ?The Church? in general sense: The word church has a general or universal sense. In Matthew 16:18, Jesus said, ?I will build My church?. In Ephesians 1:20-23, Paul wrote, ?Him [Jesus] to be Head over all things to the church?. According to Acts 2:37-47, those who obey the gospel are added to the Lord's church in this general or universal sense. The universal sense of church is a description of our relationship with Christ. Other ways the scriptures describe church in this general sense are: "in Christ"; ?As many as were baptized into Christ? (Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3:26-27); ?us?in Christ? (Ephesians 1:3); ?the body?, ?Head over all things to the church which is His body? (Ephesians 1:22-23). ?The Head of the body the church? (Colossians 1:18); ?The kingdom?--?Conveyed into the kingdom of the Son? (Colossians 1:13). The Universal church is a fellowship of individual Christians who have entered into a relationship with Christ by obeying the gospel. It is a brother-hood. The church universal is all obedient believers from the beginning of the church till now and beyond untill final judgment (Romans 14:9). This body is headed by Christ and has no earthly headquarters (Ephesians 1:20-23). Although, in this sense, the church is a body; this body does not function as a body?all its efforts are only found in the efforts of its smaller parts. We have to look to a smaller group to find the functional church. Church in a Specific Sense: To find the working parts of ?the church?the kingdom? we must look to the local congregations. It has been said, ?The local congregation is the largest and the smallest functioning unit?. At this local level all of the functions of the church are found: Evangelism (Matthew 28:18-20), Edification (Ephesians 4:11-16), Benevolence for the saints (1 Corinthians 1:16). The nature of the local congregation is individual and autonomous. Each church stands or falls on its own (Revelation 2-3, [2:1-7]). Elders were appointed to each congregation?not over many (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5). The elders were only given oversight in their one congregation (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1-4). The nature of the church all sufficient: The role of the church in its assigned work is complete and lacking nothing when the congregation is working as it should. Some attempt to ?improve? these works outside of the church with worldly ideas and doing so denies the perfection of God?s pattern. All things that need to be done as a church can be done as a church. The wisdom of God in this pattern: The fact that God has patterned all local congregations to be autonomous demonstrates His wisdom in keeping the church from wide-spread corruption. The problems in one congregation were not automatically seen in all congregations. In the areas of the church?s work we see this pattern as wisdom in keeping man?s ideas out and maintaining the all-sufficiency of the church in its functions. The Form within the Local Church: In Philippians 1:1, Paul begins his epistle to the congregation there and addresses them in three distinct roles. He says, ?to all the saints in Christ Jesus, with the bishops, and deacons?. This pictures a fully formed congregation with all of its roles occupied. Although these roles are needed, a church can function temporarily without them. What are these roles? Saints: all Christians are saints. Saint means ?sanctified? or ?set apart from the world? (1 Corinthians 6:11). This term describes the faithful Christians throughout the New Testament. Elders are specific men in the role of spiritual oversight. Men who meet and maintain the qualifications (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). Not lording over?but overseeing (watching) for the spiritual betterment of the individual members. Deacons: specific men who serve the congregation in its needs?some spiritual and some material. Men who meet and maintain the qualifications (1 Timothy 3:8-13). Serving well to ease the burden on the elders and the preacher. One often used example is Acts 6:1-7 which speaks of special servants chosen to meet the needs of the members so that the teachers could focus on the most important work?teaching the gospel and spiritually edifying the members. The roles within the local church when fulfilled as they should be provide for each member their spiritual necessity?this is the most important part. Material needs are also met to allow for the spiritual life to not be hindered. Conclusion: Looking at the facts concerning the church that is patterned for us in the scriptures, we are looking for the church whose founder, builder and head is Christ Jesus. A Church who respects the pattern of scriptures and only has functioning roles, as the pattern shows. \ These points of identification are provided for us so what we can find and become part of the one true church. This church is still available today, and even today you can become part of the true church that is following the pattern of sound words. How can we be so confident? Because the truth can be known (John 8:31-32). We have searched the word of God for the truth about the church and we rest assured that we have rightly divided book, chapter and verse for our conclusions. Right now is the time to ask yourself if you are part of the one true church. Are you truly saved? Are you a member of the body of Christ; functioning as you should in a local congregation? The opportunity to obey Christ is yours right now. ~tss -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091205/78795f15/attachment.html From Churchmousejd at wmconnect.com Sun Dec 6 13:24:15 2009 From: Churchmousejd at wmconnect.com (Churchmousejd at wmconnect.com) Date: Sun, 6 Dec 2009 14:24:15 EST Subject: [Biblemat] "ILLUSTRATIONS & OBSERVATIONS">A Message-ID: IS THE END NEAR ? During the time of Noah (Genesis sixth chapter) man had become so evil and corrupt God told him he would destroy man along with the earth. Yet, God gave them another hundred and twenty years to repent. They didn't however, and God did as he promised. Centuries later we read about the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and how corrupt they had become. And God said he would destroy them along with the other cities of the plain (except Zoar) and Abraham watched as God rained down brimstone and fire on them (Gen. Ch. 9). Jumping ahead to Christ's time we see the nation of Israel had become as corrupt as their ancestors and they too failed to heed the continuous warnings to repent God had given them through his prophets. In Matthew the twenty third and twenty forth chapters, Christ delivered what amounted to a death sentence when he said, "behold, your house is left unto you desolate." Matt.23:38. And as all students of the bible know, the nation of Israel was completely destroyed by the Romans in AD.70 Now let us fast forward to our time. Look at the rapid moral decay of America. Every natural blessing God has given us is being either exploited or squandered. Every Christian principle this country was founded on has been violated. Each generation brings new attacks on Christianity. And it seems America will not be happy until we are like the heathen nations around us and every last trace of God is erased from public view as well as our minds. Prayer is banned from our schools and most public functions. A movement is under way to have "in God we trust" removed from our currency, as well as the phrase, " under God" in our pledge of allegiance. The displaying of the Ten Commandments is prohibited in many government buildings. Recently, we read where a Muslim who was elected to public office refusing to use the bible in his swearing in ceremony (a tradition since George Washington was first sworn into office in 1789). Nativity scenes are banned from many public places, but the flag of Islam and the menorah are acceptable! (However, I don't believe Christmas should be observed as a religious holiday, it's the principle involved). The demands of what Christians consider pagan or heathen religions are often given equal and sometimes, precedence over Christianity And it seems we go out of our way not to offend them while trampling on God and all he stands for. Public morals by our elected officials are almost non-existent. And at this writing, I am not aware of any elected official that is a member of the Lord's church. Sexually deviant behavior among them abounds as well as in every area of our society. More and more, homosexuals are demanding the right to have their unions recognized as legal and normal. The appointment of homosexuals and woman (sometimes lesbians) to the clergy is becoming more prevalent and accepted. I don't know if it is still true today but years ago America led the world in bible sales? as well as pornographic material! It is difficult for me to understand how a nation founded on religious principles could practically reverse themselves in just over two hundred years. Why we cannot see as ungodliness increases, crime of every description does also, and will only continue to do so if not checked. Bible history tells us no nation can long survive without acknowledging God. Choose any nation found in our Scriptures that were guilty of this; although they may have existed for centuries, eventually they failed. And God renounced them that renounced him! This is an irresistible and undeniable fact, and we need to take heed. Why should our nation be any different from the others who apostatized from God? It is not logical that a nation led by lairs, cheats, adulterers, atheist, homosexuals, and heathens would not have a negative affect on its populace. And why would God continue to guide and protect such a nation? We believe God does tolerate just so much ungodliness?.for a while; and we believe he spares them for the elect's sake?for a while! We also believe the prayers of his faithful children may be the only reason that is keeping God from bringing certain doom on America. But sooner or later, his wrath will come, if repentance is not forth coming. Again, history teaches us this. And the righteous will be affected also. God will 'keep us', but we too will suffer to some degree because of the actions (sins) of others. In Romans chapter one, the downward spiral to moral decay is clear. At one time they knew God, but began to, 'not glorify him.' They stopped being thankful for what God had given them. Their reasoning slowly became vain or useless (empty). Their senseless hearts (minds) were darkened, their knowledge of God begin to fade, their light was growing dim and soon would go out completely. Whether we like to admit it, or even realize it, man is a worshipping creature. And he will either worship God, or something else! And without God's guidance he will always turn to some kind of idol, that is, he will worship and hold in reverence something other than God. Can anyone who understands the nature of God seriously believe God will continue to ignore our actions? And anyone who thinks we as a nation have nothing to worry about has not read bible or secular history. Where are all of the great empires of the past? Gone. Why? Because they did what we are doing now! Notice the warnings in Revelation the second and third chapters; The message to the church in Thyatira was, "I know of your past works, but you have allowed sin to enter in." He gave them time to repent. And unless they did their children would be killed with death (pestilence). The church in Perganum was told to "repent or else he would come quickly and make war against them with the sword of his mouth." The Ephesians church was charged with leaving their 'first love', and if they didn't repent their candlestick would be removed. The church in Sardis was given a stern warning as was the church in Laodicea, and was told they were about to be spewed out of his mouth. It is plain God deals with nations, churches and people in much the same way. The magnitude of worldwide corruption is almost over whelming and we wonder how much longer God will be patient with mankind. J.D.Williams -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091206/53677672/attachment-0001.html From richard at thetford.dot5hosting.com Sun Dec 6 20:25:04 2009 From: richard at thetford.dot5hosting.com (Richard Thetford) Date: Sun, 6 Dec 2009 19:25:04 -0700 Subject: [Biblemat] Walking in the Light (12/06/09) Message-ID: <000c01ca76e4$de61e8a0$9b25b9e0$@dot5hosting.com> San Juan Logo PNG.png Walking in the Light "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105) December 6, 2009 www.thetfordcountry.com --- INFORMATION Walking in the Light is published each week by Richard Thetford. You are encouraged to visit the web site at www.thetfordcountry.com and then click on "Richard's Home Page" to view numerous sermons, articles, radio program scripts, class material and other information. If you know of someone who would like to subscribe to "Walking in the Light," please send their name and e-mail address to richard at thetfordcountry.com. In addition, if you want to advertise for "churches looking for preachers" and "preachers looking for churches," go to www.thetfordcountry.com and click on the appropriate link. Fill out the easy form and your listing will be uploaded to the web site within 48 hours (usually the same day). --- CONTENTS "Dressing Our Daughters Like Prostitutes" (Jonathan Perz) SENTENCE SERMONS --- DRESSING OUR DAUGHTERS LIKE PROSTITUTES Jonathan Perz Shocking title, isn't it? I offer no apology. There comes a time when you have to call it like you see it, and it has reached the point where you don't have to look far to find a little girl dressed in "the attire of a harlot" (Prov. 7:10). As a matter of fact, you don't have to look outside the assembling of Christians! If this is how they dress inside, when meeting with the saints, how are they dressing when they are going to school, playing outside with their friends, or in any other public place? The attire I speak of is something you might see Britney Spears or Christina Aguilera wear in their latest scintillating video (that is, if you watch MTV---a problem in and of itself). This "clothing" consists of skirts that barely cover the loins, let alone the thigh, blouses that show the midriff and barely cover the chest - all painted on so tight you wonder if the sizing on the apparel is wrong. Such clothing is expected if you see a prostitute on the street, but is not expected when you see our little girls in the church - girls who are supposedly being raised in Christian homes. This problem is not isolated to our teenage daughters. Immodesty in teenagers does not happen by accident. It is the result of parents who encourage immodesty in their little girls twelve and under. While encourage might seem like a strong word, how else do you describe a situation where parents actually buy this immodest attire for them. It takes purpose to instill modesty and it takes purpose to instill immodesty. We reap what we sow. The Bible says, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it" (Prov. 22:6). If children are taught to wear clothing that God considers nakedness in their young and formative years, what kind of clothing, conduct and behavior will be reaped when they are old? The natural tendency is to grow more liberal, not more conservative. Thus, it takes a major paradigm shift to swing from immodest to modest. However, such a paradigm shift implies a period of many years where children were encouraged in sinful conduct - for it is sinful to dress immodestly (1 Pet. 3:1-7; 1 Tim. 2:8-10). Such being the case, why are we surprised when our little girls go the exact way we trained them to go? If this isn't enough, rationalizations are offered for functional uniforms that are also immodest. For example, cheerleaders are typically required to wear very short skirts and bloomers that often have text stamped on the backside; their routines require them to expose themselves in a way that is anything but modest. Other sporting uniforms are similarly rationalized (e.g., swimsuits, running shorts, dance attire, etc.). Since their children engage in these activities, parents argue that the immodest attire cannot be helped and should therefore be tolerated... even accepted. Contrary to popular belief, it can be helped and it must not be tolerated. Such activities are optional, not mandatory. Such activities should be discouraged, not encouraged. Were they discouraged at a young age, they would not be desired in future ages. Our little girls do not need to take dance class to be well-rounded Christians. Being a popular cheerleader is "a way" that leads away from God, not closer to God. A quick look at an NFL or NBA cheerleader provides adequate evidence. Do you want your little daughter to grow up and dress in such a way and engage in such activities that draw men's eyes toward them in a lustful way (Matt. 5:28; Luke 17:1-2)? Immodesty in our little girls is the first step of a much larger plot, devised by Satan, and unwittingly orchestrated by parents to so desensitize their little girls' consciences and soften them up for a much larger world of immorality. If Satan can get them to forget how to blush, they are primed for a whole new genre of sin in their lives (Jer. 6:15). So, how does whetting your daughter's appetite for things they must turn away from when they are older prepare them to be godly Christian women? The wise man wrote, "It is good for a man to bear the yoke in his youth" (Lam. 3:27). To set one standard when children are young, and expect another when they are old, is not only contrary to the wisdom of God - it is folly! Parents fail their children when they fail to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Eph. 6:4). While it is true that this burden ultimately falls on fathers, reality cannot be ignored - the church is directly impacted as well. When parents fail to take responsibility for their children's attire and behavior at a young age, and their children's conduct becomes unacceptable as they grow, elders and brethren are forced to deal with it when the children are older. Defensive (and guilty) parents accuse preachers who preach against such immodesty of "targeting" their children. Elders who stand strong against such behavior are labeled by the same as "out of touch" and "binding where God has not bound." Thus, the expectation of the parents of these children is to compromise, lest they lose their children to the world. Unfortunately, some of these children are already lost to the world and it is not the church that is to blame. Nevertheless, some will blame the church, its leadership, and those who call it like it is. The truth is that the parents trained the child in the way she went and everyone associated is left to bear the fruits of these labors and pray that the grace of God will remain long enough for her to return to the Lord. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Parents must train children in general (sons can dress immodestly too!), and their daughters in particular, to appreciate modesty and disapprove of immodesty. The church must expect modesty and reprove, rebuke and even discipline those who teach and practice otherwise (2 Thes. 3:6). Let us not dress our little girls like prostitutes, but like girls who will grow up to profess godliness with good works. --- SENTENCE SERMONS Drinking prevents thinking, and thinking should prevent drinking. The idle Christian is the raw material of which backsliders are made. Although sin is sugar-coated, it is always bitter. The strong should bear-not bare-the infirmities of the weak. Don't stay so busy laying up for a rainy day that you can't enjoy the sunshine. The egotist is an I specialist. --- SERMONS WORLDLINESS: Immodesty (PPT/PDF Charts and Audio) www.thetfordcountry.com --- cid:image003.gif at 01C9DCB3.EEF5E980 1414 Hawk Parkway, Unit C Montrose, CO 81401 (970) 626-5558 www.sanjuanchurchofchrist.org MEETING TIMES Sunday Bible Study...........10:00 A.M. Morning Worship..11:00 A.M. Afternoon Worship..2:00 P.M. Wednesday Bible Study........6:30 P.M. (No Wednesday night Bible study November - February) Evangelist/Editor Richard Thetford Home: (970) 626-5558 E-Mail: richard at thetfordcountry.com Web Site: www.thetfordcountry.com --- RICHARD THETFORD 1491 Canyon Drive Ridgway, CO 81432 (970) 626-5558 E-Mail: richard at thetfordcountry.com Web Site: www.thetfordcountry.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091206/03d85ace/attachment-0001.html -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/gif Size: 69751 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091206/03d85ace/attachment-0002.gif -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/png Size: 129359 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091206/03d85ace/attachment-0002.png -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/png Size: 688 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091206/03d85ace/attachment-0003.png -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/gif Size: 9271 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091206/03d85ace/attachment-0003.gif From j5827sasser at wmconnect.com Mon Dec 7 06:09:23 2009 From: j5827sasser at wmconnect.com (j5827sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Mon, 7 Dec 2009 07:09:23 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) QUESTION AND ANSWER Message-ID: <191f.3d41b7e8.384e4a73@wmconnect.com> Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is another question and answer from my files. Use to the glory of God. QUESTION: -- Who caused David to number the children of Israel, with respect to both 2 Sam. 24:1 and 1 Chron. 21:1? ANSWER: -- "Now again the anger of the Lord burned against Israel, and it incited David against them to say, 'Go number Israel and Judah'" (2 Sam. 24:1). "Then Satan stood up against Israel and moved David to number Israel" (1 Chron. 21: 1). First of all, understand that these two verses of Scripture do not contradict one another. Many times in Scripture we are re- minded that both Satan and God are working to change people. God is working for the benefit of people, and Satan for the detri- ment of the same people. For instance, note these two texts: "And during supper, the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, to betray Him" (Jno. 13:2). Satan is at work, tempting Judas. But, look how Peter describes this. "Men of Israel, listen to these words, Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with miracles and wonders and signs which God performed through Him in your midst, just as you yourselves know -- this man, delivered up by the predetermined plan and foreknowled- ge of God, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put Him to death" (Acts 2:22,23). We see that the death of Christ involved both Satan and God. Satan was attempting to stop God, God attempting to defeat Satan (which He did). Or, consider Paul's thorn in the flesh (2 Cor. 12:7-10). Satan intended this thorn to disrupt Paul's ministry. God used it to bring more people to salvation. Both God and Satan are at work on each of us just about all the time. As to David's sin, it seems pretty simple. He has survived Absalom's rebellion. He is again secure as the king of Israel. It looks as if he wants to count the fighting men, not for God's reasons, but his own. Perhaps he wants to feel big and import- ant by showing the whole nation (some of whom had rebelled against him) just how powerful he was. Perhaps he was just full of himself. And a powerful army would prove what a great king he was. God incited him only by granting him what he already want- ed. David was already tempted by his pride as king. So, God let him have his pride nd his census, then held him accountable God knew Satan was working on David too. David had the choi- ce to listen to God (through his generals, 2 Sam. 24:3,4) or to Satan. David, already wanting to take this census, gave in and sinned. The whole nation suffered as a result. But, David still ended up doing the right thing. "Then David spoke to the Lord when he saw the angel who was striking down the people, and said, 'Behold, it is I who have sinned, and it is I who have done wrong; but these sheep, what have they done? Please let Thy hand be against me and against my father's house'' (2 Sam. 24:17). David repented, offered sacrifice to God and God stopped the punishment. I understand that it is hard for us to grasp that God can be angry and allow us to choose the thing He knows is not good for us. But, God will honor our choices, good or bad. Satan will tempt us, and when we are stubborn about pursuing what Satan wants, God will let us. ----- Adapted from a Question and Answer by David Thurman in Gospel Minutes, Vol. 58, No. 47, Nov. 20, 2009. From j5827sasser at wmconnect.com Mon Dec 7 06:09:15 2009 From: j5827sasser at wmconnect.com (j5827sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Mon, 7 Dec 2009 07:09:15 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) "HE THAT IS WITHOUT SIN" Message-ID: <191e.48204064.384e4a6b@wmconnect.com> Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Monday morning to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. This is another day of remembrance, that rolls around every year, we are encouraged to "Remember The Maine" to "Remember The Alamo" to "Remember Pearl Harbor." to "Remember The Towers." It is good to remember things that have happened to our country as a whole. But we are given an edict from the Lord to partake of the Lord's Supper each and every Lord's Day (Sunday) in remembrance of His death and suffering on our behalf. Those that have obeyed the Lord's command as to how to be- come a child of His, continually remember Him on the Lord's Day. Here is an article from my files: "HE THAT IS WITHOUT SIN" "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her" (Jno. 8:7). This is a verse of Scripture that is often used entirely out of context by many brethren and friends to excuse sin. Their contention is that since none are without sin, no one may point out the sins of another. This, of course, is absurd. The Lord does not refer to one who was absolutely sinless in every respect. That requirement would have made it impossible for anyone to be punished under the old law for Eccl. 7:20 clear- ly states, "For there is nto a just man upon the earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not" What , then, did the Lord mean here in Jno. 8:7? The Scribes and the Pharisees had brought a woman to the Lord who "was taken in adultery, in the ver act" Jno. 8:4. Where was the man in volved in this matter? The Scribes and Pharisees invoked Lev. 20:10; Deut. 22:22 and stated "that such should be stoned, but what sayest thou" (vs. 5)? They overlook- ed the fact that the law required that both the man and the wom- an, taken in adultery, were to be stoned. Were they truly concerned abut the Law of Moses being foll- owed in this case? No! They were concerned about putting the Lord on the horns of a dilemma, trying to catch Him in some- thing with which to charge Him (vs. 6). If He said that stoning would be too harsh a punishment for her, or to turn her loose, He would have been in violation of the Law of Moses. If He, on the other hand, had said to stone her, he would have been in vio- lation of the Roman Law. Either statement would have furnish- ed the Pharisees a pretext for accusations. (I don't know if the Roman Laws forbade the Jews from stoning one of their own that had broken one of their religious laws. Note that Stephen was stoned by the Jews later on, because they thought he was teaching them to break the Jewish Laws, JWS). However the Lord did not play into their hands on this matter He upheld and vindicated the law but He imposed upon them a condition which they had overlooked. That is, the one who exe- cuted he law must be free from the same sin, lest by stoning the woman he condemn himself as worthy of like death. They knew that he knew their lives and that they were as guilty as the wom- an they had brought before Him. Remember, that He had previo- usly called them "a wicked and adulterous generation" (Matt. 16: 4). These Scribes and Pharisees forgot, too, the demand of Moses as found in (Deut. 17:5-7) that the witnesses (accusers) should cast the first stone. The Lord's answer to them apparent- ly hit like a lightning bolt. There can be no doubt tht His words impressed upon them the truth that freedom from the outward act did not imply inward purity of sinlessness. Covered with shame, they left one by one. Leaving no witnesses present. Given this, the only conclusion possible is that the Lord meant tht the ones who cast the stones must be innocent of the sin for which they wished the woman to be stoned. Brethren, don't misapply this verse of Scripture. The quest- ion is not: "Who is without sin?" the Bible makes that clear -- "For all have sinned, and come short of the glry of God" (Rom. 3:23). The question is: "Who has humbled himself in the sight of God and repented of his sins?" ---- Jimmy B. Hill in Gospel Power, Vol. 16, No. 45, Nov. 8, 2009. From edcaskey at gmail.com Mon Dec 7 10:35:33 2009 From: edcaskey at gmail.com (Eddie Caskey) Date: Mon, 7 Dec 2009 10:35:33 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] A> Beware The Greener Grass of Sodom Message-ID: *Beware The Greener Grass Of Sodom* Eddie J. Caskey Someone once said, ?the grass is always greener on the other side.? To which has come the reply, ?the grass may be greener on the other side, but it still has to be mowed!? It is true that we, as fallible human beings, are always looking toward something better than what we may already have. This is not always a bad thing, especially when it drives us to excel in the things of God. But we must also be ever cognizant of the dangers and the responsibilities associated with such desires. Often people in pursuit of their dreams will choose a path without considering the consequences. They may move to an area, desiring prosperity, a better way of life, tax breaks, or some other lofty goal, without regard to the spiritual ramifications. Sadly, they may find good jobs, but not a good congregation of God?s people who teach the truth. They may have the opportunity to become great pillars in the community, but in so doing, forsake the house of the Lord, the pillar and ground of the truth (*1 Timothy 3:15*). They may gain great worldly wisdom, but turn away from the ?simplicity that is in Christ? (*2 Corinthians 11:3*). Surely, we remember Lot. The Apostle Peter describes Lot as a righteous man (*2 Peter 2:7*), yet he was still sorely vexed by the lewd manner of the people of Sodom. Let us ask ourselves, however, ?what led to Lot becoming a citizen of such an ungodly town?? In *Genesis 13*, we see that the flocks of Lot and his uncle, Abram (later called Abraham), had become so large that the land could not contain them. This caused their herdsmen to quarrel. Abram, wanting peace, knew they would have to separate the flocks from one another, so he offered Lot first choice in picking the direction he would move his flock to. ?And Lot lifted his eyes and saw all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered everywhere (before the Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah) like the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt as you go toward Zoar. Then Lot chose for himself all the plain of Jordan, and Lot journeyed east. And they separated from each other. Abram dwelt in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelt in the cities of the plain and pitched his tent even as far as Sodom. But the men of Sodom were exceedingly wicked and sinful against the Lord? (*Genesis 13:10-13*). Let us learn from Lot?s mistake. Do not allow interest in prosperity to blind you to the possible evils ahead. Continually remind yourself that there is no greener grass on the other side of God's fences. ?Among the gods there is none like You, O Lord; nor are there any works like Your works. All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and shall glorify Your name. For You are great, and do wondrous things; You alone are God? (*Psalms 86:8-10*). Eddie J. Caskey Melrose Drive Church of Christ 740 Melrose Drive Richardson, TX 75080 www.melrose-drive.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091207/ce56a5c2/attachment-0001.html From jwquinn at sbcglobal.net Mon Dec 7 11:55:49 2009 From: jwquinn at sbcglobal.net (Jon W. Quinn) Date: Mon, 7 Dec 2009 11:55:49 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] Expository Files 16.12 (December, 2009) Available Message-ID: Completing Our 16th year of publication (1994-2009) Expository Files - December 2009 **Our 192nd monthly issue** Expository Files is a monthly electronic journal dedicated to Biblical studies. It is edited by Warren E Berkley and Jon W. Quinn. This effort began with the January, 1994 issue and continues to this day. In addition to the four or so expository articles by different writers in each issue, there are special topical studies. In addition, each issue begins and ends with editorials by the editors. We have expository material from every book in the Bible, though there are still portions that are much more lightly covered than others. Thanks to our writers and our readers for making Expository Files such a success! ---------------------------------------------------------- Expository Files 16.12; December 2009 Co-edited by Warren E. Berkley and Jon W. Quinn ---------------------------------------------------------- This month's issue contains: The Front Page 16.12 Tell Us Again, Rufus, About Your Dad By Jon W. Quinn Walking Cain ?...you will be a vagrant and a wanderer on the earth." (Genesis 4:1-13) By Jon W. Quinn She Will Bear a Son (Matthew 1:21) By Karl Hennecke ?Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him? (Psalm 2) By Warren E. Berkley ?He Must Increase, But I Must Decrease? (John 3:30) By Jacob Hudgins How Does One Become a ?Christian?? When ?almost persuaded? becomes ?completely persuaded" Topical Article By Jon W. Quinn Plan of Salvation By Jon W. Quinn The Final Page 16.12 By Warren E. Berkley The BBQ Preacher ---------------------------------------------------------- EF can now, or soon will, be found at the following places: http://www.bible.ca/ef/ Every issue - 1994 to present; every article; html; arranged by book; topic and/or issue; Search engine http://expositoryfiles.homestead.com/index.html 2004-2006 in html by issue; 1994-2003 in zipped self executable format for IBM http://www.texas.wberkley.info/ EF in PDF by issue Jon W. Quinn Bradley Church of Christ Bradley, Illinois http://www.bradleychurchofchrist.com From kerux at bellsouth.net Tue Dec 8 06:05:11 2009 From: kerux at bellsouth.net (Kent Heaton) Date: Tue, 8 Dec 2009 07:05:11 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] A>It Is Not For You To Know Times Or Seasons (Kent Heaton) Message-ID: It Is Not For You To Know Times Or Seasons (Kent Heaton) The inquisitive mind of man has always sought to know what lay just beyond the horizon of the unknown. Our desire to search out the outer limits has led man to find great discoveries. From the early days of the tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9) man went into the vast regions of the world (Genesis 10:25,32; 1 Chronicles 1:19). Our country was created from those who dared cross the unknown. Great men of science led mankind to set foot upon the moon and send machines far into the outer reaches of our universe. Medicine has kept in check many diseases through the continual pursuit of wanting to solve the riddles of the human body. It is from this pursuit of knowledge that man is able to find God. Paul said on Mars hill, "So that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us" (Acts 17:27). All men can find God if they look for Him. "His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse" (Romans 1:20). Finding God has its limitations though. Jehovah has revealed Himself through natural revelation and through the special revelation of His Word (Psalm 19). Peter wrote the Lord by "His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue" (2 Peter 1:3). Yet man can only go so far in this pursuit of knowledge. God has placed a limitation on what man can and will know (Acts 17:26). "The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law" (Deuteronomy 29:29). All that we can know is revealed to us through the word of God. Beyond those words there is no knowledge. No one can stand in the counsel of God and know His mind (Jeremiah 23:18). The early disciples asked Jesus, "Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?" And He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority" (Acts 1:6-7). They wanted to know but it was not to be revealed to them. In the discourse Jesus had with Peter in John 21 the Lord described the persecution Peter would face. Peter then asked the Lord what would happen to John. The answer Peter received was basically to let God take care of those matters; it was not any of business to know (John 21:20-23). Do you hear men today talking about the coming of the Lord and how we are living in the "end times"? Prognosticators declare the Lord is near and the world is coming to an end during our life time. Whether or not the Lord is coming today, tomorrow and next week is not relevant to man because he does not know. "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only" (Matthew 24:36). Every generation is scared into believing the Lord is coming because the signs point to the imminent return. One generation will be right (because He is coming - 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10) but not because they knew He was coming. The times of seasons belong to God and not to man. "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world" (1 John 4:1). Kent Heaton 207 NE Fourth Avenue Trenton, Florida 32693 (H) 352-463-6916 (O) 3793 (C) 352-283-3889 www.trentonchurchofchrist.com Audio Sermons Available www.northfloridabiblecamp.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091208/90d9b473/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Tue Dec 8 06:08:51 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Tue, 8 Dec 2009 07:08:51 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) PERCEPTION Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is a study from my files. Use to the glory of God. PERCEPTION I train and evaluate varsity basketball officials for the state of Arizona. One of the more important subjects I continually strive to impress upon my students is "perception." It doesn't matter much if you are unbiased and fair when everyone believes, be- cause of your actions, the exact opposite to be true. The same could be said about the spiritual arena. There are many Scriptures tht deal with this. First, Jas. 4:4 tells us that "friendship with the world is hostility toward God." Note that James doesn't say being "a part of the world is proble- matic. He states that 'being a friend of" the world is problematic. Next, Paul writes that we must, "not be conformed to the world, but be transformed" from it (Rom. 12:2). This idea coincides per- fectly with 1 Cor. 5 where we learn the impossibility of coming out of the world while, simultaneously, not becoming a part thereof. Add to this consideration that we are to "abhor that which is evil and cleave to that which is good" (Rom. 12:9) and "abstain from every form of evil and hold fast that which is good" (1 Thes. 5:21,22). We should be getting a clear picture that doing things that make us look like the world is not a good thing. And that's what "perception" is. Perception involves conclusions drawn from what we "look like." I hear people say, "where does the Bible say I can't ..." (you fill in the blank)? The question itself identifies the querist as one who has trouble with the concept of perception. Listen to the wise man of Prov. 4:14,15 when he writes "do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of evil. Avoid it, do not travel on it." Paul wrote, "make no provision for the flesh..." (Rom. 13:14). Additionally we learn from 1 Cor. 6:12 that being "lawful" isn't enough because we have to consider whether or not our actions are "helpful." Now we hae enough information to make some applications. It's usually here that some think I have finished preaching and have begun to "meddle." So be it. Let's begin with corporate cocktail parties. That's the one where Christians can attend but substitute 7-Up. Question: When someone sees such a person, with a glass in his hand, what is the perception? Easy answer. But where does the Bible say I can't go to these functions if I don't participate in the drink- ing of alcoholic beverages? See paragraph two above. Who would say ien is "fleeing evil" if he/she is right in the middle of it? Now there's the practice of men wearing earrings. This "style" can be traced easily to Hollywood movies that show it to be something a "party animal" wears (ref. movie Animal House). I was preaching in Louisville once when I was challenged to prove that the practice, of men wearing earrings, made one look worldly. I went to the largest mall in town and asked the first 100 people I saw to answer the following question: "In your mnd do Christian young men weare earrings?" (Yes, I even asked young earring-wearing males). Eighty-seven (87) of the 100 said "No." Note: I did not ask if wearing an earring, by a male, was sinful. There may come a time when the perception is different than it is now and that wearing the earring is okay -- but that time is not now. Perception? -- Think about hairstyles...Can you identify, without interview, guys and girls who are trying to look like the drug cul- ture? Sure you can. The sad part is that you can identify some of them at worship services. Can you see thsoe who are for white supremacy by their tatoos and shaven heads? Can you identify gang members by their dress? This formuly told one of my basketball officials that wearing a shirt with the name of a local high school thereupon was un- wise because those who saw him immediately perceived an ad- vantage to that school when he refereed their games. It is no less "unwise" for Christians to do anything that shows the world we are a "fan" of their worldliness. Think about "perception." it applies in more than just the sporting arena. ----- Ken Leach in Biblical Insights, Vol. 8, No. 11, Nov. 2008. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091208/9561ee02/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Tue Dec 8 06:08:40 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Tue, 8 Dec 2009 07:08:40 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) DO YOU LOVE THE LORD? Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Tuesday morning to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an article from my files: DO YOU LOVE THE LORD? If some people were asked the question, "Do you love the Lord?" most in our society would answer in the affirmative. "Yes!" Most people would claim to love the Lord and could recite reasons perhaps for their expressed lvoe. Loving the Lord is good and right. It is not an option, it is a command. Jesus recalled the command, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all they soul, and with all thy might" (Matt. 22:37). However, when one claims to love the Lord, what is meant? What is involved? What is expected? What Is Meant?: -- To many, love means to have an affection for, to admire, etc. But the command to love the Lord "with all thy heart", does not mean just an affection or a tendency of good- will toward another. Jesus is meanng by this that a man is to love God with the total man, (the heart, soul and mind). A love that is the very best one has with the highest faculties of man's ability. The affections and desires of man who loves with all his will fixed on God and His Will. This kind of love will cause one to have a greater loyalty to God over anything else. God is pleas- ed when His wholehearted love toward man is returned in full. What Is Involved?: -- As already noted, more is involved in lov- ing this way than just a mere warmth of gratitude. In 1 Jno. 3, as John is writing about the need to love the brethren, the point is made that if you say you love your brother, but do not give him the things he needs, it is not love. John then says, "My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue, but in deed and in truth" (1 Jno. 3:18). John points out that our love for our brethren ought to be shown and be evident. The same is just as true with our love for God. Many will say that they love God, but what do their lives show? Are they really doing the things God wants them to do in order to please Him? Remember God will only reward those that diligently seek to please Him (Heb. 11:6). What Is Expected?: -- In the sermon on the mount, Jesus ment- ions a group of people that in their lives surely would have said they loved the Lord. "Not every one that saith unto Me Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied n Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out demons? and in Thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you de- part from Me, I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity" (Matt. 7:21-23). Notice this group had worked and done many things in the name of the Lord. Surely, this group of peop- le claimed that they loved the Lord. But Jesus made it clear that regardless of how much they may have done or how much they may have claimed to love the Lord, is was not pleasing to God because they had not done what the Lord desired, required, nor did they do it in the way He desired. In Jno. 14, Jesus told His disciples, "If you love me, keep My commandments" (Jno. 14:15) Here is the expectation of the love the Lord desires; it is being faithful to Him and doing what He has told us to do in His Word. Let us learn that we must truly love the Lord with all of our heart, soul, and mind. May we learn that this involves more than a good feeling and outwardly saying: "I Love The Lord." Let us confess our love fro Him daily in the lives we live and int he the things we do; faithfully and diligently doing the Will of God in all things. --------- David A. Cox, via The Jackson Drive Reporter, December 6, 2009. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091208/b460a968/attachment.html From donmcclain at sbcglobal.net Tue Dec 8 16:44:04 2009 From: donmcclain at sbcglobal.net (Don McClain) Date: Tue, 8 Dec 2009 16:44:04 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] Website Updated - PPT Sermons & MP3 Files In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <000901ca7857$f2185810$d6490830$@net> Dear List Members, The following ppt and audio sermons, (along with many more) are available on our website for free downloading. I have had several reporting a problem in downloading the ppt files - the source of the problem is that I use ppt 2007 and Internet Explorer recognizes them as compressed files and by default it tries to unzip them which at this time IE 7 is unable to do. There is a way to change these settings but it seems to be rather complicated. The easiest way to view the files - right click on the link and select "save target as" - then download the files to your computer where you can open them to view and use. Feel free to use the ppt presentations "as is" or edit them to your liking - However I came across a website over the weekend that contained several of my presentations basically unaltered except my name was removed. If these presentations are placed on another website - I would appreciate that the files remain unaltered or edit the presentations to the point that the work becomes your own. Sincerely, Don McClain http://w65stchurchofchrist.org/Sermons/SERMON_PAGE.htm . The Christian And Sin (1 John 1:3-2:6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Worldliness - The Sin of Fornication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Christian And Money (Biblical Financial Principles) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hacking Agag To Pieces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Why Study The Old Testament? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sing To Me of Heaven . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Sin of Lasciviousness - (Dancing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Sin of Stealing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Caleb Followed The Lord Fully (Joshua 14:6-15) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Half Was Not Told Me (1 Kings 10:7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Problem of Dishonesty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . What The Lord Does Not Expect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Problem of Immodesty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . How Do I Know What My Priorities Are? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Christians Wake Up Call - Romans 13:11-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Worldliness - The Sin of Homosexuality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A plea For Discernment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Identifying And Correcting Sinful Attitudes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Worldliness - Is Gambling Sinful? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Believer's Riches In Christ - (Ephesians 1:1-14) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Why Preach The Word - (2 Timothy 3:1-4:5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Worldliness - TV, Movies, Music, Internet & Video Games . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Hope of His Calling - (Ephesians 1:15-23) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Faith of Moses - (Hebrews 11:23-29) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saved By Grace Through Faith - (Ephesians 2:1-10) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Autopsy of A Dead Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brought Near By The Blood of Christ - (Ephesians 2:11-22) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . That's What I Was Told . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Unveiled Mystery - (Ephesians 3:1-21) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . How To Keep Your Heart Right (Psalm 119:9-16) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Our Greatest Privilege . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Bond of Peace - (Ephesians 4:1-3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Reward of Trials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lessons From The Life of Peter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Basis of Unity - (Ephesians 4:4-6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rightly Dividing The Word of Truth - (2 Timothy 2:15) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Gifts For Unity - (Ephesians 4:7-16) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Because Jesus Died For Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Your Light - Your Work - (A Lesson On Personal Responsibility) . . . . . . . . . Walking In Truth & Holiness - (Ephesians 4:7-32) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Letting Go Of Anger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Walking In Love, Light And Wisdom - (Ephesians 5:1-21) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . How To Be Useless And Miserable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Prepare To Meet Your God - (Amos 4:12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Satan Wants To Kill This Church - (Revelation 3:1-6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Displaying God's Wisdom In Our Relationships - (Ephesians 5:22-6:9) . . . . . How Do We Receive The Word of God - (Jeremiah 36) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stand Strong In The Lord - (Ephesians 6:10-24) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Reward of Religious Academy Award Winners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I Have Done Nothing Without Cause - (Ezekiel 14) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I Was Blind But Now I See - (John 9) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . http://w65stchurchofchrist.org/Sermons/SERMON_PAGE.htm From: GospelPreachers at yahoogroups.com [mailto:GospelPreachers at yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Richard Mansel Sent: Tuesday, December 08, 2009 6:37 AM To: GospelPreachers at yahoogroups.com Subject: [GospelPreachers] Just Win [Article] Do we have a proper understanding of what it takes for a congregation to be successful? http://www.forthright.net/living_the_faith/just_win.html Also, visit with us at the Fellowship Room. You will find something uplifting. http://fellowshiproom.wordpress.com/ Richard Mansel -- Author of "The Most Important Question." How Can We Be Saved? http://forthrightpress.com/#MostImportant Managing Editor for Forthright http://www.forthright.net/living_the_faith/ __._,_.___ Reply to sender | Reply to group Messages in this topic (1) Recent Activity: Visit Your Group Start a New Topic Community email addresses: Post message: GospelPreachers at yahoogroups.com Subscribe: GospelPreachers-subscribe at yahoogroups.com Unsubscribe: GospelPreachers-unsubscribe at yahoogroups.com List owner: GospelPreachers-owner at yahoogroups.com This list is intended for the sharing of ideas, sermons, outlines, articles, other materials, and discussion about the work of preaching and the work of the church in general. The list owner does not necessarily agree with or recommend everything posted here. Subscribers are free to disagree with ideas expressed and offer biblical correction as long as they do so in a spirit of gentleness and concern for one another's spiritual well-being. Lengthy discussions should be avoided. Unless otherwise stated, material is the property of the poster and permission for non-commercial use or duplication of the material is implied by posting. All other rights are reserved by the copyright owner. MARKETPLACE Going Green: Your Yahoo! Groups resource for green living _____ Parenting Zone: Find useful resources for a happy, healthy family and home Yahoo! Groups Switch to: Text-Only, Daily Digest . Unsubscribe . Terms of Use . __,_._,___ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091208/f20d2721/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Wed Dec 9 04:46:20 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Wed, 9 Dec 2009 05:46:20 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) QUESTION AND ANSWER Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Wednesday morning to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is a question and answer from my files: QUESTION: -- How Does A Congregation Opperate Before Eld- ers Are Chosen? ANSWER: -- It is true that Acts 11:30 is the first mention of elders of the church, but it would be a bad mistake to assu- me that there were no elders in the Lord's church prior to that time. The idea of "elders" acting on behalf of the people was well established through the history of the Jews in the Old Testa- ment. And repeatedly reference was made tot he elders of the Jews in the New Testament (Matt. 16:21; 26:57; 27:1; 28:12; Lk. 22:66; Acts 4:5,23; 6:12; etc.). It would be onlly a natural progression for God to plan for elders in the very early church, probably rom the beginning of the church (Acts 2). The truth is, we don't know when the first elders were install- ed in the church. And if it had been important for us to know, God would have told us. We are told that the church in Jerusal- em had elders (Acts 11:30) and so did the church in other cities (1 Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-11; Phil. 1:1, etc.). And Paul says to Titus, "For this cause lift I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that were wanting, and appoint elders in every city, as I gave thee charge" (Titus 1:5). Please notice that a church without elders was "incomplete" -- something was "lacking or wanting" until elders were installed. That certainly indicates the elders were appointed very early in the history of the church -- if not from the very beginning (Acts 2). Until elders were appointed, the "business" of the church would have been handled in the same way it is today: the church as a whole would have to decide what was to be done, then organize and do it. Elders do much more than just take care of the business matters for the congregation. In fact, it would seem, from the Scriptures, that deacons could handle most of the "business matters" (Acts 6:1-7) and leave the elders free to "shepherd" the flock of God in spiritual matters. ---------- Clem Thurman in Gospel Minutes, Vol. 58, No. 45. Nov. 6, 2009. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091209/8699586a/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Wed Dec 9 04:46:34 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Wed, 9 Dec 2009 05:46:34 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) THE MIRACLE OF CREATION: A STRONGHOLD FOR BELIEVERS Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is a study from my files. Use to the glory of God. THE MIRACLE OF CREATION: A STRONGHOLD FOR BELIEV- ERS. Moses laid the foundation for belief in God with the first ten words in the Bible: "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth." Other miracles are significant, but the miracle of creation tells us our origin, gives reason for believing in heav- en as our destiny, and assures us of all the miracles in between. Jesus said, "An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonah" (Matt. 12:39) speaking of His resurrection, how- ever, the sign of the miracle of creation has been given to all people of every age (Psa. 19:1-3). The reason for believing that the beginning was God's work goes like this: the beginning of the universe was caused by eith- er som natural order which has always been or by a Supernatur- al force, something beyond nature as we observe it. (I can't think of a third option). Since the natural universe did have a beginning, and the cause had to be something more than natur- al. You can't get something from nothing. And to believe in infinity -- that there has always been something -- is to renounce a perpetual natural order and to confess that there is a Supernat- ural power. This argument is made in Scripture: "Through faith we und- erstand tht the worlds were framed by the Word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear (Heb. 11:3). Surely the things that we see (the natural) were made by things whcih do not appear (the Supernatural). Once again: "For the invisible things of Him from the creat- ion of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead..." (Rom. 1: 20). We can see God's eternal power, His divinity, His Supernat- uralness, by the creation. Let us notice some of the ramifications of accepting that God created the universe , they are profound. First, Of Course, There Is God: -- Second, That This God Is A Personal God: -- One Who designs things, makes living beings who can appreciate His work, and who has morality as a concern. The revelation that man is made in God's image sheds light on the nature of God and on the nat- ure of man. That this personal God would reveal Himself to us and expect us to walk in His ways certainly answers many quest- ions abou human life. The life which occupies Earth says something about the God Who certainly designed it. If God made the galaxies and the earth with precisely the necessary things for organic life, we can accept that He made living things also. Do not living things point to a personal God? This point is made by the creation alone (Acts 14:17). {If one doubts that God is personal, he should also consider Jesus' entrance into the world and His exit: the virgin birth (Matt. 1) and the resurrection (Acts 1). The Scripture says that God has spoken to us through Jesus Christ, His Son (Heb. 1:1,2). One of the great powers of the resurrection is that it proves God is a personal God, Who expects a personal response from each of us (Mk. 16:15,16). Also Matt. 17:5, "...This is My beloved Son, in Whom I am well pleased; hear ye HIm" Third, Must We Have A New Set Of Miracles For Every Generat- ion? -- We have the foundation miracle all around us. Also, we hae the record -- eyewitness testimony -- of the resurrection of Christ and all HIs mighty signs in the New Testament. When our religious friends strain themselves to prove modern-day mirac- les they only embarrass the cause of Christ and incite doubt among seekers of truth. Skeptics might think this postion convenient because it espouses belief in Bible miracles while disclaiming responsibili- ty for present-day miracles. They might think believers are insin- cere by defending miracles which happened long ago and yet denying the need for miracles right now. But must God satisfy every unbelieving soul with a special, made-to-order miracle? Jesus performed miracles enough for His generation, and yet unbelievers sought more signs as they accused Him of perform- ing them by the devil (the power of Beelzebub). (Matt. 12:22-42; 4:5-7). Look about. The miracle of creation should be sufficient to satisfy anyone seeking the truth about miracles, the person of God, and His goodness (Acts 14:17). Fourth, How Powerful Is The God Who Made The Worlds! -- Thro- ugh telescopes the vastness of the universe boggles the mind in distance alone. Through microscopes complexities of design and operation astound the most informed scientists. And we're still learnign. Running or hiding from a God like the Creator of all things, is out of the question. When Paul spoke to the worldly intellectuals at Athens, he spoke first to them about the one true God Who made the worlds. Second, he portrayed God as close by, that we can seek Him and find Him, a personal God; Third, he spoke of the resurrection, the sign for anyone who doubted Christ's deity; Fourth, he suggested the power of God by pointing to a judg- ment day for everyone. The results were predictable, just as they are today: some mocked but others asked to hear more (Acts 17:16-34). The next time you are confronted with doubt about God, let the doubter explain where the world came from. Surely a reason- able person can see that it was made by a powerful God (Psa. 14:1). From that point, we can follow the trail of reason to Jesus Christ, to obedience to His gospel, and to eternal life even for us (Jno. 14:6; 3:16; Acts 2:38). Notice that Paul did not have to explain to them that there IS a go. He only told them about the right one, for they had many gods. Further, even their poets had concluded that we are His offspring, that God is a personal God (Acts 17:27-29). -------------- George Hutto from Tidings, Vol. 24, No. 11, Nov. 2009. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091209/811ef3a8/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Wed Dec 9 10:48:59 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Wed, 9 Dec 2009 11:48:59 EST Subject: [Biblemat] I. GLOBAL WARMING!! Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, I have just come back from my morning walk, which I do in our local Wal-Mart. The wind is very strong out there this morning. The temperature is to plumet here this evening and night. We will get down to about 26% tonight. I know that many of you will laugh at that temperature, no doubt being in a much colder climate. But, remember, I am in Alabama. In checking my computer for incoming mail, there was a large Headline in the news section. That headline said: A MONSTER SNOWSTORM BLANKETS THE USA. It reaches from southern California to New York covering the majority of the country in be- tween. This is happening when many nations are meeting toget- her in Copenhagen, Denmark to discuss how bad GLOBAL WARMING has become lately and what should be done about it. It is estimated that the transportation that brings all of the people to Copenhagen and serves them while there for the two weeks will put forth more carbon dioxide the 7 Aftrican nations will put forth in one year. This global warming scare is a tool for lining the rich politicians pockets, as well as their partners in crime, while gouging the little man with more and more taxes and fines to make them pay for all this garbage that they are putting forth to get more control of the lives of all the peoples of the world while they sit up in their ivory towers, and ride their big suvs and fly on their monstrous air planes, The same way and thing that is going to happen with the Federal Health Plan. The little man will pay through the nose while he suffers in line to see a doctor or get treatment in a hospital. The politician and the rich people will have an altogether different and better type of health care and thereby never know what suffering they bring on the little man. How long the people of America will put up with this I don't know. But I am afraid they will sooner or later revolt against this. Be sure when you go outside your home, just wear a short sleeve shirt or blouse, after all this is a part of global warming. The claim is made that all the cold, icy weather, is just an offshoot of the effects of global warming. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091209/7927f1d4/attachment-0001.html From disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Wed Dec 9 22:38:06 2009 From: disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com (Ethan R. Longhenry) Date: Wed, 9 Dec 2009 23:38:06 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] S:> The Nature of the Church: The Church as Body Message-ID: The Nature of the Church: The Church as Body I. Introduction A. An important question to consider B. How is the church supposed to function? C. Church as ekklesia, group of people 1. The church is the collection of the believers in Jesus-- never a building or an organization 2. How are the people who make up the church supposed to work with each other? D. God provides an explanation through the image of church as body 1. Romans 12:3-8 2. 1 Corinthians 10:17, 12:12-27 3. Ephesians 1:23, 2:16, 3:6, 4:4-16, 5:22-32 4. Colossians 1:18, 24, 2:17, 19, 3:15 E. An important image, very worthy of consideration F. How is the church supposed to function like a body? II. The Constitution of the Body A. How is the body composed? B. The head-- Christ Jesus 1. Ephesians 5:22-32, Colossians 1:18 2. As head, Christ has all authority, directs body according to His will C. The body-- believers 1. Romans 12:3-8, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 2. In the wide perspective, all believers 3. More functionally, the local congregation 4. Believers as needing to listen to Head, follow His directives 5. Directives as indicated in the Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17) D. Unity of Head and Body 1. In this image we are considered the Body of Christ 2. As our bodies express physically the necessities of existence, communication, and the like, so we as Christians are responsible for expressing the message of Christ in our words and deeds (Matthew 5:13-16, 28:18-20) 3. We are to consider ourselves as part of Christ and no longer our own (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Galatians 2:20) 4. We must therefore work to be one with the Head and with one another (cf. John 17:20-23) E. The Body is thus composed of Christ the Head and Christians as composing the Body III. The Functions, Interrelationships of the Body A. How is the Body supposed to work? B. Romans 12:3-8, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27: the human body the source domain to explain the function of the church, the target domain C. Romans 12:3-8 1. One body as having many members: we all have different parts of our bodies and they all have their own particular functions (v. 3) 2. Christians, though many, are one body in Christ, individually members of one another (v. 4)-- demonstrates responsibility toward one another, need for working together for proper function 3. Thus, just as different parts of the human body have different functions, thus different Christians have different abilities and thus different tasks within the Body (vv. 5-8) D. 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 1. One body with different functions, all functions necessary (vv. 12-21) 2. God as having different people in different positions/places to compose the Body for His purposes (v. 18) 3. Parts that seem to be weaker really indispensable, some parts require more honor even if considered shameful (vv. 22-24) 4. Thus, God gives honor to parts of the Body that do not normally receive the honor so that members care for one another (vv. 24-25) 5. All members suffer, rejoice with other members (v. 26) 6. Church corporately Body of Christ, people as individual members of it (v. 27) E. Thus we see the interrelationship and function of the Body: different people working as individuals and together to do the work of God IV. Applications of Church as Body A. The Body as self-sufficient 1. In terms of the image of church as body, the church is seen as self-sufficient 2. Concept of autonomy 3. If the work of Christ is going to be done, it must be done by the members of the body, and the members of the body cannot expect the work to be done by people in the world 4. In terms of local congregations, while there can be contact with and even benevolence for other local congregations at times (cf. Acts 11:27-30, 2 Corinthians 8), the local congregation must do the work in their area and not expect other congregations to pick up the slack! B. "Individually Members of One Another" (Romans 12:4) 1. In our society it is very popular to be "independent" and "self-sufficient" 2. Americans have come to expect that they are not their brother's keeper and no one else is their keeper 3. That is not how the church is supposed to operate! 4. Yes, it is true that members have individual functions, and are to operate individually-- Romans 12:3, 5-8 attest to that 5. But consider the human body-- the function of most of the parts directly impacts other parts, and few are the parts of our bodies that work without any involvement or participation with other parts! 6. Thus it must be in the Body of Christ-- we are members of one another 7. We have responsibilities toward one another, to lift up and encourage, and to do the work allotted to us in the Kingdom (cf. Galatians 6:1-2) 8. "Lone rangers" or people who want no accountability cannot have those attitudes and function in the Lord's Body! C. Differing Abilities 1. Both Romans 12:3-8 and 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 affirm that different believers have differing abilities and thus differing functions 2. Differences are in number as well as proportion-- more is expected from some than others, different people have different tasks (cf. Matthew 25:14-30, Romans 12:3-8) 3. Not a reason for arrogance or false humility-- just a statement of fact 4. We cannot expect every member to do the exact same thing as other members! 5. Furthermore, the body cannot properly function if only a few do all the work! 6. If 20% of your body did 80% of the functioning, how well would that work out for you? 7. It is equally detrimental to the church! 8. Our differences are not designed to get us out of work or to glory in our work but to respect one another for the different abilities and what each can bring to the body! D. Same Expectations 1. As it is with our body, so it is with the church: different parts may have different functions, but all parts must do certain things 2. All cells, for instance, must replicate, use energy, etc. 3. All parts of the body need oxygen, brought by the blood 4. Likewise, in the body, all members must assemble (Hebrews 10:24-25), live according to the fruit of the Spirit, avoid works of flesh (Galatians 5:17-24) 5. We all must be the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16) 6. There are always plenty of tasks that everyone is able to do-- and everyone should take their turn doing them! E. Honor, Care for All (1 Corinthians 12:12-27) 1. It is easy to elevate certain roles in the church above other roles 2. That is also true with the human body 3. Nevertheless, as with the body, so with the church: all parts are necessary for proper functioning, no matter how public or private, obvious or hidden 4. All Christians are to have honor and care for all fellow Christians 5. While not all roles in the Body are glamorous, they are all necessary 6. All should feel valued for what they contribute to the Body F. A Helpful Perspective 1. There are no doubt many other applications possible for the image of the church as body 2. This is a helpful perspective-- it helps us understand what the church is to be 3. The image of church as body means that the church cannot be like a social club in which members have little concern for one another, or to be seen like a concert or some event in which some members participate and others watch 4. Instead, church as body indicates that the church must be like a living organism-- members must have deep care and concern for one another, work with one another, and work individually for the betterment of the body, just as our own body functions! 5. When we see our human bodies which God so wonderfully made (cf. Psalm 139:14), and see how all the parts work together in harmony, with each part receiving due honor, all parts working together not worried about rivalries or self-interest, each doing what it can individually and together to make the body work, we see God's blueprint for how He desires His church to function! G. Let us work together as the Body of Christ and function like the human body functions, and manifest Christ to the world! H. Invitation/songbook Ethan R. Longhenry / disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Evangelist, church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio [norwalkchurch.org] Homepage: deusvitae.com AIM: Deus Vitae / ICQ: 28317056 Y! IM: discipuliiesus Spiritual Manna A biweekly devotional for your life. http://www.deusvitae.com/faith/manna From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Thu Dec 10 04:29:18 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Thu, 10 Dec 2009 05:29:18 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) AN UNBRIDLED TONGUE Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Thursday morn- ing to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an article from my files: AN UNBRIDLED TONGUE Is it possible that some don't know the damage that can be done by a loose tongue? Is it possible that some don't know that they will be held responsible and accountable for weaken- ing the faith of another because they did not restrain their lips? Let's let God through Solomon tell us some more. In Prov. 6:12-14 we read: "A worthless person, a wicked man, is the one who walks with a false mouth, who winks with the eyes, who signals with hsi feet, who points with his fingers; who with perversity in his heart devises evil continually, who spreads strife." In Prov. 11:9 we find, "With his mouth the god- less man destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous will be delivered." Prov. 16:28 says, "A perverse man spreads strife, and a slanderer separates intimate friends." How about one more? Prov. 20:19 informs us, "He who goes about as a slanderer reveals secrets, therefore do not associate with a gossip." Amen, I say; and again I say, Amen! Whispering, backbiting, gossiping, and the lack of common sense and restraint with the tongue can do irreparable damage. It can be like a fire gone out of control, or perhaps a more appro- priate image is that of a wind blowing trash, debris, and garbage all over a city. I like what Solomon wrote in Prov. 17:27,28: "He who restrai- ns his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding. Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is con- sidered wise; when he closes his lips, he is counted prudent." I will feely tell you that I am about to take a passage of of its context, but hopefully you will be able to understand why. In Matt. 5:29,30 Jesus said; "And if your right eye makes you stum- ble, tear it out, and throw it fromyou; for it is better for you that one of the parts of your body perish, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand makes you stumb- le, cut it off, and throw it from you; for it is better for you that one of the parts of your body perish, than for your whole body to go into hell." We understand tht Jesus is not really saying to pluck out your eye or to cut off your hand. He is emphasizing how serious a matter sin is and how much more important the spirit- ual is than the physical. I believe in some cases we could say, "If your computer, with its e-mail, causes you to sin, throw it away! If your telephone or cell phone causes you to stumble, destroy it, smash it, throw it away! It is better for you to go throu- gh life without e-mail and a telephone or cell phone than for your whole body to go into hell because of the misuse of these tools. -------------- Greg Litmer in That Ye May Grow Thereby. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091210/d18b9ce6/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Thu Dec 10 04:29:31 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Thu, 10 Dec 2009 05:29:31 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) "CALLED BY MY NAME" Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is a study from my files. Use to the glory of God. "CALLED BY MY NAME" A search for the usage of the above title as found in the KJV of the Bible, will bring up eleven passages where the term is used, mostly in the Book of Jeremiah. Among them is this verse "But they set their abominations in the house, which is called by My name, to defile it" (Jer. 32:34). From this passage one can see: that God had a house, the Temple; that it might be defiled in some way; that some abomination was brought into the Tem- ple; that His name was associated with the Temple and the goings on there. Now, if the Temple had been called by some other name, the transgressions (idol worship) would have still been bad, but God's name was attached to the sins, making them even more egregious. That God has great concern for the use of His name is seen in the fourth commandment, "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh His name in vain" (Exo. 20:7). In the New Testament no physical temple is provided, but there is a spiritual structure called by God's name. "I will build My church," Christ said, pointing to HIs followers, called by the gospel, cleansed by His blood, and obedient to His Word. The church is the temple of God: which might be defiled (1 Cor. 3:17) composed of Christians (1 Pet. 2) that by which acceptable group worship is offered (1 Cor. 11:18); and the place where Scriptural oversight is provided (Acts 14:23). And, the church should be called by His name. It is the "church of God" in several passages, and the "body of Christ" in others. The apostle Paul said, "the churches of Christ salute you," (Rom. 16:16) of the local churches. Christ built the church is its Foundation (1 Cor. 3:110, is the Head of it (Eph. 5), and pur- chased it by His blood (Acts 20:28). It therefore should be called by His name. There has been over the last few years a proliferation of groups with newfangled names, so much so that I have taken to writing them down just for the record. On my list are: Apostol- ic Tabernacle; Life and Wind Church; Biblewood Chapel; Fellow- ship of Encouragement, New Beginning Fellowship Church; and Destiny Church, among others. Bless their hearts for having the courage to distance themselves form the mainline denominations, but such monickers do not have the effect of calling the groups by God's name. Speaking of the mainline denominations, neither do their names set Christ at the center of their founding, but rather call attention to some peculiar doctrine (Baptists), discipline (Meth- odists), or originator (Lutherans). One fellow objected that having the name "Hen House" over the door fo one of the farm sheds does not guarantee that there will be any chickens inside. True, but such a sign would surely give the observer the right indication about what should be there and what the builder intended. Perhaps it is good that God's name not be associated with groups that are not careful to worship and work scripturally. Or perhaps the worshippers shrink back from attaching the Lord's name to their work, thinking that a timid approach to serving God is more appropriate. But, alas, God has not offered a place for those who would serve the Lord through "An affiliate,a' or a A"knock-off." There is a time for boldness in God's work and a time for humility (Jer. 32:33), and those who claim to serve God of heaven must be bold in their approach! (Heb. 10:19,38, 39). If the work is God's, it should be done with confidence and proof from the Scriptures. "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good" (1 Thes. 5:21). And, if the work of God, it certainly should bear His name. "Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by HIm"(Col. 3:17). Orthodox Jews still today avoid using the name of God, lest they mispronounce it or defile it and bring God's wrath upon themselves. On the other extreme we hear even religious people speaking the name of God in a blatantly profane way. Surely God's name should be used but not profaned. The things that are called by His name should be implemented but not defiled. The Corinthian Christians were told, "If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are" (1 Cor. 3:17). The church's worship had been corrupted by turning the communion into a common meal (1 Cor. 11). The church's unity had been shattered by the use of men's names (1 Cor. 1:10-13; 3:3). The church's purity had been defiled by embracing fornicators. (1 Cor. 5.). The church's doctrine had been corrupted by false teachers (1 Cor. 15). Wearing the name of Christ constitutes a serious claim, and doing t he work of Christ is a serious job. Yet, Christians should have the courage to do things in the name of Christ both in word, so that God be glorified, and in deed, so tht God be revered. Those who fail in these charges will be branded as those of Jeremiah's day, as those who defile the Lord's service. --------- George Hutto in Tidings, Vol. 24, No. 12, Dec. 2009. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091210/da3b1ac7/attachment-0001.html From tedwards at onemain.com Thu Dec 10 14:59:54 2009 From: tedwards at onemain.com (tedwards at onemain.com) Date: Thu, 10 Dec 2009 14:59:54 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] B> Gospel Observer 12/6/09 Message-ID: <4B210CEA.29129.B741F0@localhost> -------------------- The Gospel Observer "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" (Matt. 28:19,20). -------------------- December 6, 2009 -------------------- Contents: 1) Walking by Faith (Ken Green) 2) The Proper Perspective (Donnie V. Rader) 3) News & Notes --------------------- -1- Walking By Faith by Ken Green "For we walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Cor. 5:7). We come to Jesus by faith (Mark 16:16), and the whole journey from conversion to glory is made by faith as we look at the things that are not seen (2 Cor. 4:18). Let us consider some aspects of this spiritual life which is comprised of trusting rather than seeing. I. Believing that Jesus lived and walked among men: We, of course, never saw Him. We did not behold the signs He performed; neither did we hear the gracious words that He spoke. Jesus said to Thomas, "...because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed" (John 20:29). We walk by faith, not by sight. We tend sometimes to consider this a disadvantage. Things would be much easier, we think, had we lived when God became flesh and walked among men. Surely all doubts would vanish if we could see Him and hear Him. Yet the stubborn fact remains that all who did see and hear Him did not believe. He was despised and rejected by men. He came unto His own and His own did not receive Him. Those who will not accept the gospel account would not believe if they saw the evidence for themselves. II. Believing the miracles of the Bible: When we challenge the alleged miracle workers of modern times to demonstrate their powers, we are accused of being unbelieving sign- seekers. But, in fact, we are not unbelievers. We believe in God; in the Son of God; in the inspiration of the Bible; and we believe every miracle that is recorded in the Bible. We believe that the sun stood still over Gibeon; that the dumb ass spoke; that the walls of Jericho fell; that Jesus healed the sick, lame, and blind, and walked upon the sea. We believe it all. What we do not believe is that such power has been given to men today. We do not have to believe this to believe God. We walk by faith, not by sight. III. Believing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain: We are assured that this is the case (1 Cor. 15:58). "In due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart" (Gal. 6:7). Such assurances imply that we need not expect to always see the fruit of our labor. Others may reap where we have sown. When we are at the point of crying out: "What good am I doing?!" it may well be that we have done more good than we know. We must labor by faith, not by sight. Let us continue to preach the word; teach the Bible classes; put forth the personal efforts to save the lost, and just accept God at His word that such will not return unto Him void. IV. Believing in God's providential workings: God holds the world in His hands. In Him we live and move and have our being. All things work together for good for those who love God and are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:27). But we often do not see this. An old Puritan proverb says that God's providence, like Hebrew, can only be read backwards. When we travel by air, few of us could explain the physical and aerodynamic laws that enable a hunk of machinery to fly. I certainly wouldn't want to fly in anything that I had a part in building. I really don't know how the thing works. And yet I'm reasonably confident that it will take me to my destination. A child in a loving home certainly does not comprehend the purpose and the wisdom of much that is done for him and to him. He does not understand that denials and discipline are for his good. Yet he trusts the love, the goodness, and the wisdom of his parents. How much more is it true that we do not fathom the providences of our God. Yet we trust Him. We walk by faith, not by sight. V. Believing in the incorruptible inheritance: We have never been privileged to ascend on high and behold the wonders of that city whose builder and maker is God. We have not peered into that book of life to see our name written there. Yet we believe the promise of our Lord that He will come again and that where He is we shall be also (John 14:1-3). We believe that a rest remains for the people of God. Like Israel of old in the desert, they had not seen Canaan land. They had not beheld the beauty of Mount Zion or stood on Jordan's banks, but they believed. They walked by faith. And we also who are traveling to the promised land are walking by faith, not by sight. The day is coming when we shall walk by sight. We believe that our Lord walked among men; but one day we shall behold Him as He is and we shall be like Him. We believe the evidences of His power, but we shall one day know from experience that power that raises the dead. We believe that our labor is not in vain; but we will one day know the results of that labor. We believe that all things work together for good; but we shall one day behold the whole picture. We believe that there shall be fullness of joy in the presence of God; but one day we shall taste that joy, and we shall walk by sight. -- Via Searching the Scriptures, November 1992, Volume 33, Number 11 --------------------- -2- The Proper Perspective by Donnie V. Rader In our service to the Lord we must maintain the proper perspective. If we do not, we can easily become discouraged or we may become overly excited and euphoric when we need to be a little more cautious. Getting a proper perspective means that we take an honest look at the way things really are and not just see what we want to see. The proper perspective comes when we see the larger picture. We sometimes become weary and disgusted because we are only focusing on part of the picture. Taking a bigger view may give reason to be encouraged and even quite optimistic. At times our optimism and enthusiasm overshadows our sense of being realistic. I believe it was Luther Blackmon that told about the man who thought he had a good pair of shoes. All they needed were half-soles, heels and uppers. Besides, the strings were real good. We cannot afford to ignore real problems. Neither can we allow a few problems to blind us to the good that is present. At one time Elijah had lost the proper perspective. He thought there was no one but himself wanting to do what was right. He said, "I alone am left." God had to help him get the proper perspective by telling him that there were yet 7,000 that had not bowed their knees to Baal (1 Kings 19:10,14,18). There are three things we need to see to get the proper perspective. The Progress We Have Made We need to look back and see where we were and how far we have come. Have we made any progress? Are things better now than they were? Or, are we going in the wrong direction? Remember, that progress is in many instances, slow (Heb. 5:11-12). Individual Christians need to stop and consider the progress they have made. Do you know the Bible better now than you did a few years ago? Are you stronger and more mature (Heb. 6: 1)? Are you able to endure and overcome things that you could not in the past? Churches have to do the same. While things may not be as we would like them to be in the congregation, the question is "Are we making progress?" Are we moving (even though slowly) in the right direction? Are we more united, stronger and striving to do things according to the Bible? Are we trying to deal with problems rather than ignore them? Don't forget that progress will not always be labeled "progress" by some. What Are We Doing Now? The proper perspective involves seeing what we are presently doing. Are we striving to do what the Lord says do? Can our concepts, teaching and practices be justified by the Bible (2 Cor. 4:13)? Is there a stronger sense of unity than in times past (1 Cor. 1:10)? Are we growing in knowledge, in maturity and in number? Are we moving in the right direction rather than in the wrong direction? We can easily get discouraged when we listen to those who are discontent. If we focus our attention there, it will give us a limited picture of the church. We can begin to think that most of the people care little about doing what is right. It is somewhat like three or four old frogs in a pond -- they can make enough noise that it sounds like a hundred. What we need to do is take a look at how many are wanting to follow the Bible and try their best to live by it (Phil. 1:27). Those people don't make as much "noise," but must be taken into account to get the proper perspective. Our Potential And Goals To get the right view we must see how bright or gloomy the future is. Is there reason for some optimism as we contemplate the coming days? What is our potential as individuals? What are you capable of doing? What kind of growth can you experience? What can you become? It is sad to see those who waste their time and throw away their potential (Heb. 5:11-12). What is our potential as a church? What will the church of tomorrow be? Will the homes and the families that comprise the church be good solid homes or will the lack of Christianity in the home destroy the church? What is the potential for future teachers, song leaders and even elders? Does the future look better and brighter than the past? What goals do we have or should we have? Individually, we must set our sights on being the kind of individuals that the Bible describes (1 Cor. 15:58). When we do, we have also set our sights on heaven (Col. 3:13). As a local church, we must set our goal to become like the local church that God approves (Rev. 2-3). That means we must deal with the things that God does not approve of -- even though such processes are unpleasant (Rev. 2, 3; 1 Cor. 5 and 2 Thess. 3). We must strive to be active and carry the gospel to others (1 Tim. 3:15). We must work toward becoming scripturally organized (Acts 14:23). Churches that are content with the status quo and just "keeping house" (though sometimes they really don't do that) just don't have much of a goal to do what is pleasing to God. Getting the proper perspective always helps. At times it will paint a dark picture. But in most cases it will give us some reason for encouragement. -- Via Searching the Scriptures, November 1992, Volume 33, Number 11 -------------------- -3- News & Notes To those who are Christians, please continue to remember my mother, Marian Edwards, in your prayers. She is in a nursing home and has also been receiving hospice care for about the last five weeks. Let us also be praying for Eloise Craver, one of our elderly members, who recently fell and broke her hip. She had surgery on it, and all went well. Because of all the exercise that sister Craver has kept up with for many years, she was told that she should heal about twice as fast. --------------------- 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). -------------------- CHURCH OF CHRIST 201 Rushing Road (at the Hampton Inn), Denham Springs, Louisiana 70726 Sunday services: 9:15 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 4 PM (worship) evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (225) 667-4520 tedwards1109 at gmail.com http://home.onemain.com/~tedwards/go Directions: Take the Denham Springs exit (exit 10) off of I-12. At the end of the exit ramp, turn north. Go about a stone's throw to Rushing Road. (You'll see a Starbucks, Circle K, and two other gas stations; with each on each corner.) Turn left on Rushing Road, and go less then 0.3 of a mile. Hampton Inn will be on the right. We assemble in its meeting room, which is very close to the reception counter. -------------------- -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091210/2ffee32b/attachment-0001.html From dmartinbt at att.net Thu Dec 10 21:27:40 2009 From: dmartinbt at att.net (Don Martin) Date: Thu, 10 Dec 2009 21:27:40 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] Seeking an email address Message-ID: <532AE43A39424930A06D1F93272BFD54@533034B8A6DF4D9> Don Martin to the list: I am in need of Joshua Best's email address (owner of Bible List). If you know it, please send it to me off list. dmartinbt at att.net Thank you in advance. Cordially, Don Martin dmartinbt at att.net Check out our Web sites: http://www.bibletruths.net Ask and receive a Bible answer http://www.biblequestions.org Simply click on the URL to visit these sites. You may print out the material for teaching purposes, see the copyright provision on the home page of Bible Truths. From disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Thu Dec 10 22:38:02 2009 From: disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com (Ethan R. Longhenry) Date: Thu, 10 Dec 2009 23:38:02 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] S:> 1 Peter 1:22-2:3: Growing Up Into Salvation Message-ID: 1 Peter 1:22-2:3: Growing Up Into Salvation I. Base Text: 1 Peter 1:22-2:3 II. Understanding the Text A. Review 1. 1 Peter 1:1-9: great encouragement in the midst of trial-- hope of the Christian based in the resurrection, salvation ready for the final day 2. 1 Peter 1:10-12: Great value of salvation, desire of angels to investigate it 3. 1 Peter 1:13-21: first application: set hope fully on grace, be holy in conduct, conduct self with fear throughout life, ransomed by blood of Christ B. Loving One Another (1 Peter 1:22-23) 1. It is necessary to "unpack" this thought 2. Basis: "having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth" a. First of all, demonstration that soul cleansing cannot be separated from obedience b. Primarily, however, demonstrates what is necessary before we can act as we should-- commitment to obeying the Lord Jesus Christ (cf. Romans 6:16-23) 3. Purpose: "for a sincere brotherly love" a. Purification through obedience is to lead to real, honest love b. 2 Peter 1:5-7: faith to be supplemented with virtues, ultimately to brotherly affection and love 4. Command: "love one another earnestly from a pure heart" a. Possible only because of obedience, purification b. Love not to be superficial c. Value of love-- 1 Corinthians 13 d. God as love, implications-- 1 John 4:7-21 5. Reason: born again not from perishable but imperishable seed, word of God a. Being born again, we are to act born again b. New creature, new values (2 Corinthians 5:17-20, Galatians 2:20, 1 John 4:7-21) c. Our love and attitudes will be different from others because their basis is different from the world d. The world and its values will perish; God and His values remain forever (1 John 2:15-17) C. The Word of God (1 Peter 1:24-25) 1. Peter then focuses on the nature of that Word 2. Citation of Isaiah 40:6-8 3. The Word as enduring, humans and their ideologies as fading 4. Babylon in original context no longer there, even though it seemed imposing at the time 5. Same with Rome in Peter's day 6. A good lesson for everyone 7. Word of God as that which was preached to the Christians D. Put Away Insincerity (1 Peter 2:1) 1. Remember-- chapter, verse divisions come later; material related to what comes before 2. "So": conclusion to what comes before 3. All of chapter 1 probably relevant in some respect-- most particularly vv. 22-23 4. We cannot have sincere, earnest love while being malicious, deceitful, hypocritical, envious, and slanderous 5. We cannot be holy with those attitudes, for that matter 6. Malicious: devising and/or practicing evil 7. Deceitful: being a con or deceiving people in any way 8. Hypocrisy: either doing one thing and saying the other, or putting on a pretense while living the opposite way 9. Envy: desiring the possessions of others 10. Slander: speaking evil of a person with the intent to destroy their character 11. We must not engage in any of these! E. Pure Milk (1 Peter 2:2-3) 1. After saying what Christians should not do, he tells them what to do 2. Image of Christian as infant desiring milk 3. The milk the "reasonable" or "logical" milk-- hence, spiritual milk 4. The message of the Word to grow into salvation 5. Question: relationship to Hebrews 5:12-6:4? 6. While Christians should grow to maturity, should still always yearn for the pure message of God to continue to grow up to salvation 7. Peter uses same image as Hebrew author but for different purposes-- it is not a bad thing to be as an infant in this passage! 8. Peter is not denying our need as Christians to grow and mature (cf. 2 Peter 3:18), but we are to always desire the message of God in its purity! 9. This desire only possible if we have tasted that the Lord and His ways are good! III. Applications A. Obedience - Purification - Love 1. Peter affirms how obedience is necessary for purification and thus salvation 2. Are we striving to be obedient? 3. If we are obedient, we will proceed to desire to exhibit sincere love, and to do so 4. Are we exhibiting that sincere love? 5. Are we demonstrating that we have indeed received the imperishable seed? 6. Or are our lives dominated by worldly attitudes, mindsets, and activities that will perish and not lead us to eternal life? B. The Word 1. Do we yearn for the Word as Peter says we should? 2. Do we recognize it as true food and drink that really sustains (cf. John 6:54-58)? 3. Have we really tasted the Lord and decided it is good, or have we found Christianity unpalatable in some way? 4. Do we seek to be entirely sustained by God and His Word? IV. Conclusion A. Thus we see 1 Peter 1:22-2:3 1. Obedience leads to purification and should lead to love 2. The Word is imperishable 3. Let us put away evil, yearn for sustaining message of God B. Let us love all men and seek to be sustained by God's message! C. Invitation/songbook Ethan R. Longhenry / disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Evangelist, church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio [norwalkchurch.org] Homepage: deusvitae.com AIM: Deus Vitae / ICQ: 28317056 Y! IM: discipuliiesus Spiritual Manna A biweekly devotional for your life. http://www.deusvitae.com/faith/manna From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Fri Dec 11 03:32:29 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Fri, 11 Dec 2009 04:32:29 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A FORGIVE ME WHEN I WHINE Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Friday morning to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is a poem from my files: FORGIVE ME WHEN I WHINE Today upon a bus, I saw A lovely maid with golden hair; I envied her -- she seemed so gay -- And oh, I wished I were so fair. And suddenly she arose to leave, I saw her hobble down the aisle; She had one foot and wore a crutch, But as she passed, a smile. Oh, God, forgive me when I Whine; I have two feet -- the world is mine. And when I stopped to buy some sweets, The lad who served me has such charm. He seemed to radiate good cheer, His manner was so kind and warm. I said, "it's nice to deal with you, Such courtesy I seldom find." He turned and said, "Oh, than you, sir!" And then I saw that he was blind. Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, I have two eyes -- the world is mine. Then walking down the street, I saw a child with eyes of blue. He stood and watched the others play; It seemed he knew not what to do. I stopped a moment, then I said; "Why don't you join the others, dear?" He looked ahead without a word, And then I knew, he could not hear. Oh, God, forgive me when I whine; I have two ears -- the world is mine. With feet to take me where I go, With eyes to see the sunset's glow, With ears to hear what I would know; I'm blessed indeed, the world is mine. Oh, God, forgive me when I whine. --------- Author Unknown. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091211/98eebf23/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Fri Dec 11 03:32:42 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Fri, 11 Dec 2009 04:32:42 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) HIDE IT UNDER A BUSHEL? NO! Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is a study from my files. Use to the glory of God. HIDE IT UNDER A BUSHEL? NO! The Book Of Acts Is A Book Of Conversions: -- It is the histor- ical record of the apostles fulfilling the Great Commission of Christ, "go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mk. 16:15). They did so in Jerusalem, Samaria, Caes-area, and in the uttermost parts of the world. The did so with great success. In Acts 16, Paul and Silas were on their Second Journey and came to Troas. There, Paul received a vision of a man saying, "Come over into Macedonia and help us" (vs. 9). They set cours- e immediately. While in Philippi, a leading city of Macedonia, they taught and baptized Lydia and her household. This initial success was quickly countered with an altercation with the local law enforcement. Though Paul and Silas were put in jail, they were not set free from their responsibility to preach the gospel of Chirst. Jesus said to "let your light so shine before men in such a way tht they may see your good works and glorify your Father Who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:16). Everyone has a light, one that is not meant for hiding but for shining. Never is this more clearly seen than through Paul and Silas' behavior in their dark prison cell. What can we learn from their shining example? -- You Will Face Many Temptations To Turn Off Your Light: -- Paul and Silas had every right to be discouraged. Their robes were torn off of them, they were beaten with "many blows," thrown into the most secure cell, and had their feet fastened in stocks (Acts 16:22-24). This was a device used to spread the legs as far apart as possible, to ensure cramps and discomfort. What was their reaction in all of this? Did they grumble and comp- plain? Did they threaten to quit or surrender? "But about mid- night Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God" (vs. 25). Their candles were literally burning the midnight oil. The darkest tmes are when you must shine all the brighter. Your attitude reveals a great deal about your character. Christ- ians ought tobe people who respond differently to tragedy and calamity than the rest of the world. We see the bigger picture. We know God is still in control. We believe He has the power to work everything together for good. Paul and Silas were singing "hymns of praise to God" in prison. It's as if they were thanking God for the privilege of persecution. When disaster strikes, don't look for the "off" switch. Press "on". You Never Know Who Can See Your Light: -- The Lord was not the only one hearing their prayers and songs. "And the prison- ers were listening to them" (vs. 25). The sounds in their cell were as important as the words of their sermons on the streets. Remember, Paul and Silas had received a vision to go to Maced- onia, concluding that God had called them to go preach the gos- pel there. And they were not about to quit preaching. Even in jail, they saw and opportunity to turn those prisoners into bond- servants of Jesus Christ. People are watching you, too: in your neighborhood, in your classes, on your team, at your work. They notice that you are different. They don't hear the same words coming out of your mouth that they hear from other people. They don't see you going to the same places and participation in the same activities as those in the world. Or do they...? While our words are for listening, our deeds are for seeing. Give those around you something good to watch. Let them see Him who is the source of all light. You Can't Be A Light Without Sending The Light: -- Souls were saved the night Paul and Silas let their light shine. After the earthquake that shook the foundations of the prison, the jailer awoke to find all the doors opened. When he learned that none of the prisoners had escaped, he fell at the feet of Paul and Silas and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved" (vs. 30)? The jail- er went to these men with a question he knew they could answer. He could see tht they were living the kind of life they were preaching and singing about. You have souls to rescue, souls to save. Make sure that peo- ple know where to find you. If they can make no distinction be- tween you andt he rest of the world enslaved in sin, what reason would they have to ask you about salvation (1 Pet. 3:15)? And make certain you're prepared for the opportunity. Paul and Silas "spoke the Word of the Lord to him" that night (vs. 32). How much would their flame had been extinguished had they not been able to answer his question of eternal life? There are some people whom you alone can reach. Be sure to leave the light on for them. The same jailer who had fastened the feet of Paul and Silas in the stocks was baptized and set free from the bondage of sin. Think about him the next time you are tempted to hide your light under a bushel. ----- Bubba Garner in Biblical Insights, Vol. 8, No. No. 11, Nov. 2008. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091211/91dacd4d/attachment-0001.html From chris.gautney at gmail.com Wed Dec 9 14:45:52 2009 From: chris.gautney at gmail.com (Chris Gautney) Date: Wed, 9 Dec 2009 14:45:52 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] The 5 R's of REAL REPENTANCE Message-ID: <9fd765230912091245p4982b3bpba63dff7e0e7626f@mail.gmail.com> THE 5 R?S OF REAL REPENTANCE ? Lk. 15:17-24 Introduction: ??????????? 1. All men must repent and come home to God much like the prodigal son ??????????? 2. Compare this type of repentance to with the way many do today. ?Discussion: ??I. ? ? ? ? ?REFLECTION ??? ? ? ? ? ?The moment the prodigal son began to really think & reflect on his past, 3 conclusions began to grip his heart. (1) To remain where he was meant a slow, torturous, and inevitable death. (2) Even a hired servant?s place in his father?s house was much better than starving to death in a strange land. (3) He had sinned & played the part of a cheap fool to leave home, & he ought to go back and say so II.??? ? ? ? ? ?RESOLUTION ??? ? ? ? ? ?He resolved therefore, to arise and get away from the old life of sin and separation & go back to the father and make a clean confession. III.??? ? ? ? ? ?RETURN ??? ? ? ? ? ?He not only resolved, but he actually did three things about it. (1) He got up & away from a life of sin and separation. (2) He turned his face toward his father?s house and never stopped til he reached home. (3) he make hi honest confession, face to face with his father IV.??? ? ? ? ? ?RESTORATION ??? ? ? ? ? ?Then in quick succession, four wonderful things happened when he made his confession. (1) He was forgiven (2) He was made, not a hireling, but a son & heir (3) He had the best robe put on him and ring on his finger and shoes on his feet (4) He was proclaimed by his father as his son who was lost and was found V.??? ? ? ? ? ?REJOICING ?? ? ? ? ? ?Not only was the best robe in his father?s house placed upon him, but the fatted calf was killed & the whole household was called together in a great season of rejoicing. ?You can repent and receive truly rich blessings from your heavenly Father From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Sat Dec 12 01:53:34 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Sat, 12 Dec 2009 02:53:34 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) THE CHURCH THAT JESUS BUILT (1) Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, JIm Sasser here. Here is the first installment of this particular study. Use to the glory of God. THE CHURCH THAT JESUS BUILT (1) "Jesus asked His disciples, saying, Who do men say that the Son of man is? And they said, Some say John the Baptist; some, Elijah; and others, Jeremiah, or one of the other prophets. But who say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answ- ered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjonah: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say unto thee, that thou art Peter, adn upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it" (Matt. 16:13-18). Great confusion exists in the religious world, with more than four hundred denominations in this country alone -- all claiming to follow Jesus Christ. Is it possible to know which one, or if any one, is "the church that Jesus built?" It is impossible for each person to investigate every religious group, to see if it is right. But such is not necessary. Let us start at the right place, let us investigate "the church that Jesus built" to find what it is. Then we should be able to recognize it when (or if) we can find it. It Was Foretold By The Prophets And Jesus: -- Hundreds of years before Christ, prophets wrote of the church that Jesus would build. "It shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the mountains...and all nations shall flow unto it...for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the Word of the Lord from Jerusalem" (Isa. 2:2,3). Notice these things about the beginning of "the house of God" (the church) (1 Tim. 3:15): it was to be establish- ed "in the last days," it was to be composed of people from "all nations," and it was to go forth "from Jerusalem." In a similar prophecy (Zech. 1:16) God said, "I will return to Jerusalem with mercies, My house shall be built in it." The Lord Jesus also told of the beginning of that church. "I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom" (Matt. 16:18,19). When was that church, that kingdom, to begin? Gathered with His disciples, He told them, "Verily I say unto you. There are some here of them that stand by, who shall in no wise taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God come with power" (Mk. 9:1). Afterward He told them, "Tarry ye in the city (Jerusalem) until ye be clothed with power from on high" (Lk. 24:49). From the prophets, and from Jesus Christ, comes this pict- ure of "the church tht Jesus built." It was to be built in Jerusal- em, in "the last days," during the lifetime of the apostles, and it was to be composed of people from all nations. Reading Acts 2:1-47, we find the fulfillment of all these prophecies. Peter calls this period "the last days" (vss. 16,17), the promise preached was for "all nations" (vs. 39), they were in the city of Jerusalem and the apostles were alive and doing the preaching. That was the beginning of "the church that Jesus built," for people be- came members of the church that day (Acts 2:41,47). It Is Revealed In The Gospel Of Christ: -- When Jesus told the apostles of the sower, He explained it to the disciples. Telling them that it depicted the kingdom (church), He said, "The seed is the Word of God" (Lk.8:11). There is no other source for the church than Jesus Christ, and no other channel through which it is revealed than His Word. Peter wrote, "Having been begot- ten again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, through the Word of God, which liveth and abideth...And this is the Word of the Gospel which was preached unto you" (1 Pet. 1:23-25). Some look to history, and seem to think that such reveals the church. Others look to "man's need in the 20th century" for their concept of what the church ought to be. But neither histo- ry nor contemporary society can reveal "the church that Jesus built." Only the Scriptures and do that. The apostle Paul wrote in Eph. 3:1-6 of the message God gave him to reveal. He stated that the message was revealed to him by God (vss. 2,3), that the Gentiles (all nations -- Isa. 2:2) should be "fellow heirs and fellow members" (vs. 6). Lest some say the message of the church is not clear, he wrote, "Whereby, when ye read, ye can perceive my understanding in the mystery of Christ" (vs. 4). He then stated that there is made known "through the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to His eternal purpose which He purosed in Christ Jesus our Lord" (vss. 10,11). We can read, and understand, that church which God reveals and which is according to His "eternal purpose." And that is "the church that Jesus built." (More will be posted on this subject next Monday, the Lord willing, JWS), -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091212/a356f1d5/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Sat Dec 12 01:53:22 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Sat, 12 Dec 2009 02:53:22 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) GOD HAS SPOKEN Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Saturday morn- ing to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an article from my files: GOD HAS SPOKEN "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways, saith the Lord." " For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My though- ts than your thoughts" (Isa. 55:8,9). How, then, can we know the thoughts and ways of God? Should we give up hope of finding them? Certainly not! The Holy Spirit has searched the mnd of God and has made known to Christ's chosen messengers "all things, yes, the deep things of God" (1 Cor. 2:7-13). We have that body of truth in the inspired Scriptures (2 Tim. 3:16,17). What a priceless treasure lies, too often unused, on tables and shelves of homes through- out the lands of the world! How blind so many people are to the wisdom in the Bible lying neglected within easy access to each and everyone! Must we walk in God's Ways to please Him and gain eternal life? Hear the Word of the Lord: "But this is what I commanded them, saying, 'Obey My Voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be My people. And walk in all the ways that I have comman- ded you, that it may be well with you'" (Jer. 7:23,24). Israel failed to do so, and fell from favor. We, too, have been commanded to walk in the Spirit, to walk in Christ, to walk in the light of His Word, to walk in wisdom that is from above (Gal. 5:16,25; Col. 2: 6; Jno. 12:35; Eph. 5:8; Phil. 3:16; Col. 4:5). If we wish to have fellowship with God, we must walk in the light (1 Jno. 1). Our worship must be in spirit and in truth (Jno. 4:24). Does your worship demonstrate God's Way or men's ways? If God has not taught you through the Gospel of Christ to do what you are doing, how can you say that you are following God's Way instead of doing as you please? If you strike up a band or orchestra, employ singers for entertainment, offer games and parties in the name of religion, or forsake assemb- ling with the saints of God to worship according to the New Test- ament order and instead go golfing or fishing or vacationing, how can you say that you are seeking God's Way? Let us acknowledge God in all our course of life, and let Him direct our paths (Prov. 3:6). Please, brethren and friends, let us get serious about God's Way! ---------- Gilbert Alexander. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091212/470e4cb7/attachment-0001.html From wswalker310 at juno.com Fri Dec 11 17:10:21 2009 From: wswalker310 at juno.com (Wayne S Walker) Date: Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:10:21 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] hymn study, "The Victory to Win" Message-ID: <20091212.075953.4024.0.wswalker310@juno.com> Wayne Walker here with another weekly hymn study 12/12/09 ?THE VICTORY TO WIN? ? That thou mightiest war a good warfare? (1 Tim. 1:18) INTRO.: A song which exhorts us to do what we can in warring a good warfare is ?The Victory to Win? (#228 in Sacred Selections for the Church). The text was written and the tune was composed both by Mark D. Ussery (1880-1937). Born near Marlin, TX, in 1880, he was one of the four children of M. L. and Alice Ussery. His siblings were Ethel, Willie, and Clem. The family, who were members of the church of Christ, loved to sing and often attended the singing schools in the community where they lived. A student and fellow worker of F. L. Eiland, Ussery was associated with the Eiland Music Company of Waco, TX, and became a close friend of Tillit S. Teddlie, Will W. Slater, and Austin Taylor, spending his years producing songs, teaching music, and leading singing among churches of Christ, most of which were rural. His wife's name was Myrtle, and they had one daughter, Mrs. Calvin Barkley. For most of his life the Usserys lived in central and west Texas, including a time in Abilene, where Mark made his living buying and selling cotton. In 1905 he published his first song, "Come In," copyrighted by Dean and Hensley. During his life, Ussery was credited with about ninety songs. Hymnary.org lists 74 of them. "The Victory to Win" is dated 1914, and was copyrighted by Smith and Ussery. The earliest hymnbook in which I have been able to trace the song is Tidings of the Cross edited by Woodie W. Smith and published by the W. W. Smith Co. of Ft. Worth, TX, in 1915. Since then, it has appeared in the 1917 Guiding Star, the 1919 Soul Echoes, the 1920 Billows of Praise, the 1921 Gospel Light and From the Cross to the Crown, the 1922 Song Service, the 1927 Zion Songs: Spiritual Hymns, the 1934 Favorite Songs, the 1951 Everlasting Praises No. 4, the 1955 Tuneful Melodies, and the 1958 New and Old Gospel Songs and Hymns. Also, Ussery edited three hymnbooks, the first of which, Love Tidings published in 1918 by the Interstate Music Company of Abilene, TX, contained what is probably his best known song, "Don't Let Your Light Burn Low,? with tune composed by J. E. Williams. Beautiful Hymns of Praise was published in 1928, and Pure Heart Praise was published in 1930 by a gospel paper, The Way of Truth, of Brownwood, TX. In the flyleaf of the latter, he wrote, "We have tried to avoid two common extremes so noticeable in many of the present-day songbooks, e.g., the unwarranted use of light, airy, convention songs, and the wholesale gathering together of short space fillers, many of which have no merit, and are noticeably at variance with the teachers of Inspiration." Another of his songs that has appeared in some of our books is "Glory on the Winning Side" which begins, "There's a mighty army marching through the land." After a life of 57 years, he died at Winter, TX. Among hymnbooks published by members of the Lord?s church during the twentieth century for use in churches of Christ, ?The Victory to Win? may be found in Sacred Selections. The song urges us to press on in the great battle of truth and right against evil. I. Stanza 1 tells us that we have a victory to win as soldiers of Christ ?Pressing the battle in Jesus? name, A victory to win, Raising the banner of Truth and Love O?er fields of vice and sin; Onward, our soldiers, in bright array, Marching, yes, marching from day to day, Tramp, tramp, tramp, tramp, The victory to win.? A. God holds out the prospect of victory to His people: 1 Cor. 15:57 B. In this warfare, Truth and Right are our banner: Ps. 60:4 C. And each Christian marching from day to day is a soldier of Christ: 2 Tim. 2:3-4 II. Stanza 2 tells us that we have a victory which is sure because Jesus is our Leader ?Pressing the battle in Jesus? name, The victory is sure, Jesus our Leader in this great fight Will to the end endure; He will lead faithfully in the way, Where is sure victory every day, Tramp, tramp, tramp, tramp, The victory to win.? A. Jesus is called the Captain of our Salvation: Heb. 2:10 B. He will help us to fight the good fight of the faith: 1 Tim. 6:12 C. To do this, He will lead us faithfully in the straight and narrow way: Matt. 7:13-14 III. Stanza 3 tells us that we have a victory that is as good as won because it is God?s will ?Pressing the battle in Jesus? name, The victory is won, Showing the world that the Father?s will Must here on earth be done; Showing the wicked in vain is their fight ?Gainst the great Leader of Truth and Right, Tramp, tramp, tramp, tramp, The victory to win.? A. The overall victory is as good as won because God gives it to us by faith: 1 Jn. 5:4 B. However, in order for each one of us to participate in the victory, we must have the attitude of doing the Father?s will: Matt. 26:39 C. Hopefully this will show that their fight against our Leader is vain to the enemies: Eph. 6:12 CONCL.: The chorus basically repeats the first stanza with the melody in the alto for the first and third lines. ?Pressing the battle in Jesus? name, The victory to win, Raising the banner of Truth and Love O?er fields of vice and sin; Onward, our soldiers, in bright array, Marching, yes, marching from day to day, Tramp, tramp, tramp, tramp, The victory to win.? I do not think that I have ever led this song or even heard it sung. My experience has been that when I worked or have visited with churches which used Sacred Selections, it has never seemed to be well known. However, it does encourage us to remember that we are soldiers of the cross and that through faithfulness to Christ we have ?The Victory to Win.? Brotherly, Wayne S. Walker 503 S. Jefferson St. Salem, IL 62881 home phone: (618) 548-6286 cell phone: (618) 292-2694 e-mail: wswalker310 at juno.com website: www.defenderoftruth.com Notes: Other hymn studies are available at the Defender of Truth website. Also, some of my previous hymn studies are now included in book that I have written entitled Songs of Zion. It can be ordered from the publisher by calling 1-800-423-2484 or going to www.faith-facts.com . And I have a Hymn Studies blog at http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/hymnstudies/ . In addition, since this has been called to my attention, I now feel it necessary to include this disclaimer with each message. As owner of this list, I have nothing to do with the ads and links that Yahoogroups sends out with the Hymn of the Day posts nor do I have any control over them. I do not necessarily approve of them and I do not always endorse those who have placed them with Yahoogroups. ____________________________________________________________ Diet Help Cheap Diet Help Tips. Click here. http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2141/c?cp=C0htsTskxhbgEcNfxn-DEQAAJ1AqWLnxUT_Og0R1xxm43-TkAAYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADNAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYQAAAAAA= -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091211/2f49889b/attachment-0001.html From thornhill1 at frontiernet.net Sat Dec 12 12:17:07 2009 From: thornhill1 at frontiernet.net (thomas thornhill) Date: Sat, 12 Dec 2009 12:17:07 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] The Buckhorn Teacher 12-13-09 Message-ID: <19C3821C65644B729443BB212BC56DF9@your4dacd0ea75> THE BUCKHORN TEACHER "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." 2.Tim.4:2 Buckhorn church of Christ - Thomas Thornhill - editor. 13675 Hwy 341, Randolph MS 38864-9117. Tel. 662-568-2960. Cell 662-419-5378.E-mail thornhill1 at frontiernet.netTV program - the internet - w07bn.com Vol.8 December 13, 2009 No.15 THE NEW TESTAMENT (conclusion from last issue) This Savior, Jesus the Christ, came to our world, lived 33 years on the earth, "was in all points tempted (to sin) as we are, yet without sin" (Heb.4:15). Being without sin He was the only one who could pay the debt for our sins before God; thus it is written, "He tasted death for everyone" (Heb.2:9). A person cannot be redeemed from sin and guilt by the blood of bulls and goats, but only through the blood of Jesus which He shed for all (Eph.1:7). We cannot earn forgiveness from God, by doing alms or other good deeds, for we are told salvation is "not by works of righteousness which we have done." Tit.3:5. Forgiveness from sin is the gift of God because of His mercy of sending Jesus to shed His blood for us. It is the gift of salvation that must be accepted through obedience to Him, even as it is written, "though he was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all that obey Him" (Heb.5:8-9). This means that salvation does not come by faith alone (Jas.2:24-26) or that we can merit such, but it does mean that through obedience to the gospel we are accepting the gift which He has so freely offered (Mk.16:15-16; Acts 2:36-41). Jesus was born in Bethlehem, grew up in Nazareth, was baptized in the Jordan river, spent three and a half years going all over the land of Israel "doing good and healing all that were oppressed by the devil" (Acts 10:38). During that time He and His apostles preached the good news of His coming kingdom (Matt.4:17; 10:7). He told those early disciples to pray for the kingdom to come (Matt.6:9-13) and He promised to build His church, that is His congregation or kingdom (Matt.16:16-19) and He affirmed that it would come in their lifetime (Mk.9:1). Jesus was very popular with the people as it is written, "the common people heard Him gladly" (Mk.12:37), but the religious leaders and the politicians hated Him and wanted Him dead (Matt.27:18-23). The Roman governor who ruled Israel at that time gave in to the cries of the mob to put Jesus to death (Matt.27:24-26). Thus the sinless Savior tasted death as a sacrifice for all on a cruel Roman cross about 2000 years ago. He was raised from the dead three days later on a Sunday morning. After His resurrection He spent forty days with His apostles telling them among other things, "go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved, but he who does not believe will be condemned" (Mk.16:15-16.). Jesus then ascended in a cloud into heaven where He was seated at the right hand of God as King of Kings and Lord of Lords (Acts 2:32-41). Ten days after returning to heaven on the day of Pentecost, which occurred 50 days after His resurrection, He sent down the Holy Spirit on the twelve apostles and under the power of the Spirit they began to speak in foreign languages which they had never studied (Acts 2:5-8). To the thousands gathered in Jerusalem for the festival of Pentecost they preached Jesus and Him crucified, buried, resurrected and exalted to God's right hand as King of Kings. In response to their preaching the people cried out to the apostles, "men and brethren what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, repent and be baptized and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:37-38). That very same day about 3000 were baptized and added to the church (Acts 2:41-47), the church He had promised to build (Matt.16:18). To speak of the church of Christ founded in Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost about 2000 years ago is to speak of the kingdom of Christ (Mk.9:1; Matt.16:19; Col.1:13; Rev.1:9), which Daniel the prophet said would stand forever (Dan.2:44). The Savior Himself said the gates of hades would not prevail against it (Matt.16:13-19). You may be a disciple of Jesus yourself and belong to that church. *************** THE PRIVILEGE OF BIBLE STUDY Let us look at the title of the article. Do we really consider it a privilege to study the Bible? I have several books on my shelves that I consider it a privilege to have but none of them came from the mind of God. Eph.3:3-5 "How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words. Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ), which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit." What a great privilege to study such a great book that comes from the mind of God and I am assured that I understand it. I will not understand this great book by accident. I will not understand it because of someone else, though they may be close me and understands me. I have to study to understand it. 2.Tim.2:15, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." The Bible is the greatest book that has ever been written. Far greater than all the classics combined. Far greater than all the publications in the Library of Congress. This book is small enough that a person can carry it with them wherever they go. What a great privilege to know the story of creation and the history of man until the flood. What a privilege to read the rest of the history until Christ came to this sin cursed earth and died on the cross that I could receive remission of my sins through obedience. What a privilege. - Tom Wheeler, "Standing Firm" bulletin, Ellis church of Christ, Dugger IN. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091212/cb028b04/attachment-0001.html From tssullivan at charter.net Sun Dec 13 08:36:50 2009 From: tssullivan at charter.net (T. Sean Sullivan) Date: Sun, 13 Dec 2009 08:36:50 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] The Messenger Vol 004 Iss 049 Message-ID: <4617E78C5A02426F9014C6141768DF10@sean2e3f41f1ba> The Messenger 2009 Published Weekly by Main Street Church of Christ 306 West Main Street, Newbern, TN 38059 Bulletin Editor: T. Sean Sullivan VOLUME 004::ISSUE 048: December 05, 20099 This Week?s Article: How Can You Be Certain? Lesson 5: TheWork of the Church in Pattern and Practice Introduction: With literally over 1000 options for ?organized worship? in our country, we are set out on a search for truth. Our goal is not to find the ?church of our choosing??we must be determined to know which church God chooses. The New Testament clearly condemns false religion and declares that God will not accept those who practice false religion, we must set our minds on discovering and doing what God desires (Matthew 7:21-23). We have thus far established that there is a ?pattern? to be followed (2 Timothy 1:13). This being the case we should only see exact copies among all ?believers?. This is surely not what we see today, is it? A point that clearly sets the true church apart is the continued adherence to the pattern of work for the church to accomplish. If someone were to ask, ?What are churches suppose to do?? They may hear things like: Feeding people, supplying day care, hosting inter-congregational sports leagues, even some Friday bingo. Are these things pattern for us so that we must ?holdfast? to them? We need to know what God intended for the work of the church. The Bible patterns a very specific area of work that is to be done by the Lord?s Church. We are authorized to work in three areas: Evangelism, Edification, and Benevolence. Let?s open our Bibles today and consider these specified works of the Lord?s Church. Evangelism We are to evangelize. This means to preach the gospel with the goal of reaching out to lost souls and converting them to Christianity. This is work that the church is responsible to accomplish properly. We are to win souls to Christ by the power of the gospel and nothing else (Romans 1:16; Galatians 1:6-8). The New Testament examples: The first day the church came into existence as recorded in Acts 2:14-40 when Peter proclaimed the gospel message. Later, we see that Paul preached the gospel in many congregations (Acts 14:21-22, 25 Derbe, Lystra, Iconium, Antioch of Pisidia, Perga, Attalia). Timothy and Titus were also evangelists commended to ?Preach the word? (2 Timothy 4:1-5; Titus 2:1). In evangelism we fulfill the command of Christ to preach and teach all things that He has commanded (Matthew 28:19-20). To follow the pattern set for us we must continue to preach the true word of God and not allow for the substitutions of men?s doctrines. Edification Edification is strengthening and encouraging. After reaching out and finding new souls who obey we need to further strengthen those souls, and all the local brethren. When we choose to become a Christian we choose a difficult way of life. Jesus spoke of the one true way as both narrow and difficult (Matthew 7:13-14). Of necessity we need help along the way; this is where edification becomes necessary. The New Testament examples: In Acts 16:40 Paul edified the disciples in Lydia?s house. In Acts 20:1-3 Paul ?embraced them?encouraged with many words?. Then also 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Paul encouraged the brethren at Thessalonica to continue their practice of edifying one another. By edifying one another we accomplish the necessary relationship of brotherhood. God has seen fit that we would have this safety net of brethren to help us along the way. We are commanded to care for one another in Romans 12:1-10, where we are told to give ?preference to one another? and in Ephesians 4:25-32 we are instructed to be ?kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving?. We are to work toward the building up of each other toward perfection (completion); it is our working together and edification for one another that see us fulfilling the pattern of Ephesians 4:11-16 ?The growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.? Benevolence The final work that is patterned for the church is benevolence. Benevolence is an attitude and a willingness to do good; and it is in form a generous gift or act of kindness. Simply taking care of those in need is the reality of benevolence. The New Testament examples: There was benevolent need during the first days of the church (Acts 4:34-37). Later, due to a famine, the brethren demonstrated great benevolence toward the saints in Judea (Romans 15:25-27; 1 Corinthians 16:1-3; 2 Corinthians 9:1-7). According to these examples the collection of funds on the first day of the week is specifically for the saints. We are only authorized to help the saints with the Lord?s money. As individuals we can, and should, help others in need, with wisdom and within our ability?it is a true part of the proper character of a Christian (James 1:27?individual effort). Remember always, the community?s greatest need is a right relationship with Christ. Conclusion: The true pattern church: Is not busy meeting our social needs?our spiritual wealth is the focus. Is not raising our children for us?God?s design for that need is the home. Is not supplying the material needs of all the needy?what they need most is the gospel. The pattern demonstrates our responsibilities as: Sounding forth the gospel?leading others to Christ. Strengthening?encouraging and uplifting one another and caring for the needy members--supplying one another?s needs as to be less. These are the only works that we are authorized to do. This is what the church is supposed to do--nothing less; nothing more. The pattern is to be followed even today. You can be part of the one true church before you leave here today. ~tss If you are enjoying The Messenger and you know someone else who would like to receive it. Please forward this copy to them and send their email address and I will add them to the list. Sean -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091213/03366de9/attachment-0001.html -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/gif Size: 3298 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091213/03366de9/attachment-0002.gif -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/gif Size: 7811 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091213/03366de9/attachment-0003.gif From disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Sun Dec 13 15:53:24 2009 From: disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com (Ethan R. Longhenry) Date: Sun, 13 Dec 2009 16:53:24 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] B:> Good News for Norwalk: Volume IV, Number 50: December 13, 2009 Message-ID: Good News for Norwalk For I am not ashamed of the good news, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. (Romans 1:16) A publication of the church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio Volume IV, Number 50: December 13, 2009 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gods of This World: Entertainment Modern society faces a paradox: the past century has seen a revolution in time-saving technologies, expediting everyday activities like cleaning, cooking, and traveling, and yet people today seem to have less time than ever before. If we are spending less time than our ancestors in cooking, cleaning, and transporting ourselves, should we not have more time on our hands? In fact, we do have more time on our hands-- yet as opposed to spending the time cooking, cleaning, or going places, we are now spending it being entertained. We now spend hours of our time watching television or movies, listening to music, playing video games, using the Internet, or out engaged in various hobbies. Entertainment has become a very large part of our lives and of the economy. The options seem almost endless! It is no wonder that we are always busy-- there is always another show to watch, another website to visit, some other music to hear! The lives of some people revolve around entertainment. They watch hundreds of movies or listen to hours of music. They buy magazines to follow the lives of celebrities and other figures in entertainment. They have jobs and families and other responsibilities but are always looking forward to returning to their various forms of entertainment. For many such persons and many others, entertainment is the reason behind a lack of connection with family members, fellow Christians if they are believers, and fellow members of the community in general. It is easier, it seems, to sit in front of the television or the computer than it is to build real-life relationships. The overwhelming popularity of entertainment and the desire to be constantly entertained has led to many tragic spiritual consequences. People expect assemblies of churches to be entertaining and something similar to what they could watch on television or see in a movie. There is no lack of religious organizations who are more than happy to oblige these impulses and to provide a very entertaining assembly, even if it becomes devoid of Biblical content and purpose. Without a doubt, entertainment has become a god of this world! We are not attempting to condemn any and all use of entertainment. With the notable exceptions of forms of entertainment that lead to lasciviousness or covetousness or other works of the flesh (cf. Galatians 5:19-21), there is nothing inherently wrong with entertainment. In fact, entertainment can be profitable when it is used to facilitate opportunities for friends and family to come together or for fellow Christians to associate (cf. Hebrews 10:24). Nevertheless, it is not good for human beings to live to be entertained or to expect everything in life to be entertaining for them. Life should not revolve around various forms of entertainment, and we should consider judiciously how much time we spend being entertained (Ephesians 5:16). It is advisable for Christians to consider how much time they spend in being entertained versus praying, studying the Bible, assembling with Christians, or finding opportunities to visit others and assist those in need (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:17, 2 Timothy 2:15, Hebrews 10:24-25, Galatians 6:10, James 1:27). The result will likely surprise you-- and hopefully will lead to a change in priorities! Entertainment, even when clean and fun, should be enjoyed in moderation (cf. 1 Peter 4:7). There is little doubt that many of the tragedies in modern Christendom are at least partially caused by excess in entertainment. When the assemblies of the saints seem boring and dull, is that because they really are boring and dull, or is it because we are conditioned by the world to want something more entertaining and less participatory? What does it tell us when many Christians are far better acquainted with the events in a movie or a series of movies than they are with the events recorded in the Bible? What is going on when Christians know the lyrics to modern secular songs far better than they do the words to psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs (cf. Ephesians 5:19)? And why else is it that too many Christians are "too busy" to assemble with the saints, visit the sick, shut-ins, or widows, to volunteer to serve others, or to participate in activities with other Christians, but are never too busy to watch their favorite television series? There is little doubt that far too many souls in this country are entertaining themselves to death and condemnation. Interest in spiritual things has diminished, at least in part, because there are far more "entertaining" and "fun" things to do in life than to consider one's soul and one's spiritual life. Let us wake up and develop godly attitudes about such things, and put spiritual matters above entertainment! Ethan R. Longhenry evangelist at norwalkchurch.org -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio Thank you for reading the electronic version of our bulletin, Good News for Norwalk. If you live in Norwalk or happen to be traveling in the Norwalk area, we would certainly love to have you visit one of our assemblies! Our location: 386 North Edgewood Drive (just off US 250 just north of Norwalk's city limits) Norwalk, Ohio 44857 Our assemblies: Sunday morning assembly: 10:30am Sunday evening assembly: 6:00pm Our Bible studies: Sunday morning Bible study: 9:30am Wednesday evening Bible study: 7:00pm -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For More Information If you have any questions or comments about anything you have read here, or desire more information, please contact our evangelist, Ethan Longhenry, at evangelist at norwalkchurch.org. Ethan R. Longhenry / disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Evangelist, church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio [norwalkchurch.org] Homepage: deusvitae.com AIM: Deus Vitae / ICQ: 28317056 Y! IM: discipuliiesus Spiritual Manna A biweekly devotional for your life. http://www.deusvitae.com/faith/manna From richard at thetford.dot5hosting.com Sun Dec 13 19:09:21 2009 From: richard at thetford.dot5hosting.com (Richard Thetford) Date: Sun, 13 Dec 2009 18:09:21 -0700 Subject: [Biblemat] Walking in the Light (12/13/09) Message-ID: <000c01ca7c5a$758aec20$60a0c460$@dot5hosting.com> San Juan Logo PNG.png Walking in the Light "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105) December 13, 2009 www.thetfordcountry.com --- INFORMATION Walking in the Light is published each week by Richard Thetford. You are encouraged to visit the web site at www.thetfordcountry.com and then click on "Richard's Home Page" to view numerous sermons, articles, radio program scripts, class material and other information. If you know of someone who would like to subscribe to "Walking in the Light," please send their name and e-mail address to richard at thetfordcountry.com. In addition, if you want to advertise for "churches looking for preachers" and "preachers looking for churches," go to www.thetfordcountry.com and click on the appropriate link. Fill out the easy form and your listing will be uploaded to the web site within 48 hours (usually the same day). --- CONTENTS "The Sin of Jealousy" (Richard Thetford) "Still Smoking?" (Dan S. Shipley) "Men" (A. Hugh Clark) SENTENCE SERMONS --- THE SIN OF JEALOUSY Richard Thetford Jealousy is listed by the apostle Paul as a work of the flesh in Galatians 5:20, and will keep one from entering into heaven (Gal 5:21). Webster defines jealousy as: "resentfully envious." It is a trait that has its roots in darkness (Rom 13:12-13). When one is filled with jealousy, it keeps them from being rationale about other things that are happening around them. A jealous individual is filled with resentment and often times has a negative outlook on life. What Causes Jealousy? There are several things that cause one to become jealous. Some of these things include ignorance (Rom 1:28-29), vainglory (Gal 5:26), and carnality (1 Cor 3:3). But I feel that the number one thing that causes most people to be jealous is selfishness. Paul wrote: "he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself" (1 Tim 6:4-5). The self-seeking individual who cares only about himself is usually the one that also becomes engulfed in jealousy. What Are the Results of Jealousy? James writes: "For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there" (Jam 3:16). As I said earlier, jealousy keeps one from being rationale and as a result confusion exists. When one becomes confused they are then more likely to succumb to evil deeds. Solomon wrote: "Wrath is cruel and anger a torrent, but who is able to stand before jealousy?" (Prov 27:4). A certain destruction will await all those who are filled with the sin of jealousy. Therefore, cast this evil away (2 Pet 2:1), and learn to love your fellow man. Paul wrote: "Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up;" (1 Cor 13:4). Recognize jealousy for what it really is, cast it aside, and live by the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23). --- STILL SMOKING? Dan S. Shipley As a former smoker, I know how easy it is to ignore messages from the news media and the pulpit that discourage smoking. It is difficult for most of us to be objective in considering that which condemns what we want to practice. As someone as well noted, "Affection is a briber of the judgment; and it is hard for a man to admit a reason against the thing he loves, or to confess the force of an argument against an interest." Convincing Christians to give up tobacco wouldn't be nearly so hard if they could first be convinced to face the issue objectively and with an open mind. And yet, of all people, the Christian should recognize the difficulty of dealing with prejudiced and closed minds. As a follower of Christ, he knows that personal preferences must be subordinated in seeking to please the Lord. The smoking Christian owes it to himself and to the Lord to consider the evidence relative to smoking. When he does, he will certainly consider such facts as those recently released by the Surgeon General's office in The Health Consequences Of Smoking. In the forward section of that report, Dr. E.N. Brandt, Jr., Assistant Secretary for Health, writes: "Cigarette smoking is the major single cause of cancer mortality in the U.S. Tobacco's contribution to all cancer deaths is estimated to be 30 percent and cigarette smokers have total cancer death rates two times greater than do nonsmokers. Heavy smokers have a three to four times greater excess risk of cancer mortality...There is no single action an individual can take to reduce the risk of cancer more effectively than quitting smoking..." According to statistics released from the Public Health Service research, lung cancer, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and coronary heart disease are the principal causes of death attributable to cigarette smoking, but they are not the only ones. They have concluded that the rate of early death from all causes ranges from 40 to 120 percent higher for smokers than nonsmokers, depending upon the amount smoked daily. It is not without good reason that the word "Warning" appears on the cigarette package. Those who are told to glorify God in the body (1 Cor 6:20), should seriously consider the health hazards of smoking. Equally important for the smoking Christian to consider is the possibility of enslavement to tobacco. To be brought under the power of a habit is to violate the principle of 1 Cor 6:12. For the smoker who wants to know, "What about the glutton, the cokeaholic, the coffeeholic?" The same principle applies equally to them! With Paul, every Christian must resolve, "...I will not be brought under the power of any." Rather, "I buffet my body, and bring it into bondage..." (1 Cor 9:27). Finally, the Christian smoker must consider the possibility that smoking may hurt his influence. Shouldn't every Christian be "an example to them that believe, in word, in manner of life..." (1 Tim 4:12)? Justified or not, many are offended by the smell, the pollution, and being forced to inhale second-hand smoke. Honestly now----everything considered, wouldn't it be better if Christians didn't smoke? --- MEN A. Hugh Clark One of the greatest needs is men! Men who are bigger than trifles; men with the breadth of intellect and depth of character; men who will not stoop to cheat or be unfair; men who will not stand imperiously on their rights, but who in magnanimity of soul cast away personal advantage for the good of many; men who will not lie, and defame, and steal to increase their own personal fame or fortune; men who would rather stand with the right in the end than to have their own way; men who love the truth and are willing to die for it rather than to compromise with falsehood; men who act upon principle in all their dealings with their fellow men rather than personal feelings whether of bias or prejudice; men with clean hearts and pure motives; men who feel neither envy nor jealousy when one of superior endowments and greater ability surpasses what they have been able to achieve; men who are not too big to be satisfied to fill the place in the world for which they were created and fitted by the benign creator who made every man for a definite place in His infinite universe of time and space and sense. --- SENTENCE SERMONS Faith keeps the man who keeps the faith. It is not a question of who is right, but what is right. Faults are thick where love is thin. A smooth sea never made a successful sailor. You will never get ahead of the person you are trying to get even with. Kindness is the oil that takes the friction out of life. --- SERMONS WORLDLINESS: Smoking and Tobacco Products (PPT/PDF Charts and Audio) www.thetfordcountry.com --- cid:image003.gif at 01C9DCB3.EEF5E980 1414 Hawk Parkway, Unit C Montrose, CO 81401 (970) 626-5558 www.sanjuanchurchofchrist.org MEETING TIMES Sunday Bible Study...........10:00 A.M. Morning Worship..11:00 A.M. Afternoon Worship..2:00 P.M. Wednesday Bible Study........6:30 P.M. (No Wednesday night Bible study November - February) Evangelist/Editor Richard Thetford Home: (970) 626-5558 E-Mail: richard at thetfordcountry.com Web Site: www.thetfordcountry.com --- RICHARD THETFORD 1491 Canyon Drive Ridgway, CO 81432 (970) 626-5558 E-Mail: richard at thetfordcountry.com Web Site: www.thetfordcountry.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091213/898d2af3/attachment-0001.html -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/gif Size: 69751 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091213/898d2af3/attachment-0002.gif -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/png Size: 129359 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091213/898d2af3/attachment-0002.png -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/png Size: 688 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091213/898d2af3/attachment-0003.png -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/gif Size: 9271 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091213/898d2af3/attachment-0003.gif From bgreen at ms.metrocast.net Sun Dec 13 21:04:28 2009 From: bgreen at ms.metrocast.net (Bill Green) Date: Sun, 13 Dec 2009 21:04:28 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] Need Help with lessons on life and death of Jesus. Message-ID: Over the past couple of months I have been doing a series of lessons on the teachings of Jesus found in the Sermon on the Mount. I would like to continue bringing lessons based upon The Christ. I would like to bring a series of lessons based upon the life and death of Jesus. I would really appreciate any help. Thank you for your time and help. Brotherly, Bill Green Bruce church of Christ Bruce, Ms -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091213/77131031/attachment.html From crxtra at gmail.com Sun Dec 13 22:02:25 2009 From: crxtra at gmail.com (Steven C. Harper) Date: Sun, 13 Dec 2009 21:02:25 -0700 Subject: [Biblemat] A> Please Explain Message-ID: <000001ca7c72$4082a460$c187ed20$@com> Please Explain I guess it is one of those things I will never understand. Or maybe it's that I do really understand. You might be wondering right about now, "What are you talking about?" Well, be patient because I have a couple of things. Survival of the Fittest. One of the basic arguments of the theory of evolution is that some creatures, through evolution, added helpful abilities, limbs, defenses, instincts, and even actions that gave these newly-endowed creatures with survival advantages over the creatures that weren't so lucky in the evolutionary game of roulette because they didn't happen to produce these same features. As the argument is presented, subsequent generations of the creatures with the advantage somehow 'assumed' the beneficial features while they jettisoned the useless [or at least less useful] features and caused the generations that followed to become incrementally superior over time - often stated as billions and billions of years. I won't take the time to argue about the believability or even credibility of the argument for now, but I do wonder about something: Why is it that those who argue so passionately [Shall we say, religiously?] for this theory then turn around and complain about humans destroying, damaging, endangering, or even causing some creatures and/or other life forms in nature to become extinct? Isn't this just nature in action, according to their pet theory? If it is "just the way it is," then why do they insist on trying so hard to make humans - the top of the evolutionary chain, according to their theory - stop demonstrating how much fitter we are than, say, the snail darter or Asian panda? If that's just a demonstration of "survival of the fittest," on what basis are they complaining? If I understand them and our position in nature correctly, we humans are the "fittest" creatures, so it seems to me that there's a little bit of inconsistency here. Maybe you can explain that to me sometime. I will grant that it is simple common sense that tells me the "fittest" animals will survive while those less "fit" will not, but I will not grant that the only logical conclusion to that is the entire system we are being force-fed [evolution]. I should demand a visible example of some creature who is now mid-change from one creature into another because many of the evolutionist-scientists demand visible proof of God before they will believe in Him. Surely, they must have some visible proof of an evolutionary change from one creature to another! Or is it that they believe in something they cannot see? Don't they accuse believers [in God and Christ] of having "blind faith" because we believe in a God we cannot see? That being the case, I await the scientist who will admit his belief in the evolutionary theory is thus "blind faith" because he, too, believes in something he cannot [but will never] see. You see, the problem in accepting the evolutionary theory is that we all look at the facts and can come to different, yet just as plausible, conclusions. I would even argue that it actually takes more faith to believe in the theory of evolution than it does to believe in God, simply because of the great "leaps of faith" that must be taken to accept the explanations offered to those who still doubt. An honest person would, after examining the evidence, be led to reject much [if not all] of the theory simply because of the conclusions - not the facts. Facts are facts, but they are not the point of dispute; the conclusions are what draw the line of divergence. But back to this "survival of the fittest" argument. If we simply looked at the fact of nature's workings and how the fittest do, indeed, survive more readily than the weakest, then the only necessary conclusion would be just that: the fittest survive more readily than the weakest. It takes some biased inferences to say much more than that, and a closed mind to leap to the theory that this fact of nature necessarily means what began as a single-cell blob in primordial ooze eventually turned into the people we see walking this earth. And if it were true, why do some complain that the fittest are winning and weakest are dying out? It's just natural! Reaping What We Have Sown. Another fact of nature is that when you plant corn, you get corn; if you plant beans, you get beans. In simple terms, every seed produces after its own kind. The same is true in the animal world. As obvious as this may seem, many seem to not realize the same thing is true in society, too. You see, a few decades ago, we raised a generation in this country who were not taught to respect authority, were not taught about God, faith, and morality, and who were, in fact, taught to be "independent thinkers" [a whopper of a misnomer, if there ever was one] and that it was perfectly normal to question everything they had ever heard and known. The resulting generation threw off conventional behavioral expectations, rejected their parents' morality, rejected society's standards, and challenged authority from the lowest [parents] to the highest [the President] levels. Instead of listening to literally centuries [millennia, in some cases] of wisdom, these young folks saw themselves as the "wise ones" and decided they alone were the masters of their lives and coined phrases like "free love" and "question authority" to define their new way of thinking [except it really wasn't new]. A couple of generations into this "experiment" and we are seeing the fruit of such thinking and living. Births out of wedlock are at an all-time high, lying is considered sometimes "necessary" now, sexual perversion is merely an "alternative lifestyle," cheating is the norm among students and adults, divorce ends about half of all marriages, pornography is available to our children for free with the click of a button, child molesters and pedophiles are found on just about every street in major cities [and small towns, too], and it is not news to most people that politicians have the lowest level of trust of anyone in the country. We are in the middle [if that] of a recession/depression that was largely caused by greed, lying, and bribery, and thousands of people have lost their jobs, lost their homes, and lost hope because someone with more power and wiles than they had took their money with the promise of exorbitant returns, only to reveal much later [after it was all gone] that it was all a big, fat lie and merely a scheme to live off the riches of others. With all the sorrow and grief over this, I again have a question: What are we complaining about? Isn't this what we wanted? I know, I know. Right about now, you're thinking, "Now, wait a minute! We didn't ask for this!" Well, yes we did. This is what we sowed! What did we expect to reap? Did we really think that by rejecting a moral code that condemned lying, stealing, and cheating, we would produce a society that cared about the financial status of those from whom they were stealing it? Did we honestly [now there's a funny word] think that we could cheat, but it is somehow wrong for others to cheat us? Do we actually think that we can casually lie day in and day out and not suffer and consequences in our society? If so, I've got some land to sell you - and a couple of bridges, too! As a matter of fact, I have some magic beans you might want, too! The apostle Paul wrote almost 2,000 years ago, "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap" (Gal. 6:7). We have sown immorality, a love for sinfulness, and atheistic humanism; we are reaping its fruit: dishonesty, ungodliness, and a disregard for life itself. What this illustrates is merely the sad fact that most men do not think beyond the here and now and do not accept and do not want to think about the consequences of their actions. Because of this, we need to be teaching all the more that, one day, we will have to give an answer for what we have done - and sown (2nd Cor. 5:10). It is foolish to think that we can reject the moral standards God established and have either our own [which constantly seeks a lower and lower standard] or none at all and think that anyone would learn honesty, justice, or sexual purity. We are even more foolish when we reject God's standards for ourselves and act surprised when someone cheats us, steals from us, or tries to exploit us sexually - all because they were merely following our pattern. No society will last long where its citizens expect only others to be civil and obedient to its laws. If we don't like the fruit, we should start planting different seed - and we know what seed that is (cf. Luke 8:11). -- Steven Harper -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091213/0837f3ae/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Mon Dec 14 04:44:34 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Mon, 14 Dec 2009 05:44:34 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) LET'S BE HONEST Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Monday morning to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an artic- le from my files: LET'S BE HONEST Let's be honest, most people don't enjoy lying. Dishonesty is not typically a valued characteristic. I have never heard of anyone who wanted to bte known as a liar. Let's be honest about something else, we have all done it, lie that is, an as we did it, we knew it was wrong when we did it. Being consistently honest is a challenge, because lying is so convenient, so undet- ected, so seemingly rewarding. It can help us advance with mini- mal effort and escape trouble with a flip of the tongue. Omit infor- mation, blur the facts, exaggerate the truth, add some spin and you gain the crowd, protect yourself, please a friend, get what you want. After a while, dishonesty can beome second nature. We still don't like it, so we adjust our consceince to go off only when lying is really harmful to ourselves or someone else. Little lies are unfiltered because they seem harmless. Before long, you are what you hate (because NO ONE: likes to be lied to), but you don't really recognize that. How does someone be consistently honest? When opport- unity to fudge, blur, omit, or spin, knocks, how do you lock the door? First, To Develop Honesty, Consider Values, Not Just Rules: -- Don't misunderstand, God has rules about dishonesty that He expects us to obey: "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" (Exo. 20:13); "Do not lie to one another, since you have laid aside the old self with its evil practices" (Col. 3:9). God loathes the liar and the lying tongue and sets such a person in the same category as one who murders (Prov. 6:16-19). However, instead of asking, "What rules did I break with my dishonesty," we should ask, "What kind of person do I want to be?" "When I am dishonest in any way, am I being like Christ? Am I emulating my Heavenly Father?" When we do this, we be- come more concerned about our character than just following the rules. When we just follow the rules, we may attempt to break them if we don't think we will get caught. When you are concerned about your character, you will want to do right even when no one else is looking. Second, Recognize That Dishonesty Has Vertical And Not Just Horizontal Effects: -- While we often think that dishonesty only impacts our relationship with others, if they find out, we must realize that it significantly effects our relationship with God. When God gave Israel their law, He connected their treatment of one another to their treatment of Him. "Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, 'When a person sins and acts unfaithfully against the Lord, and deceives his companion...he sins and be- comes guilty'" (Lev. 6:1f). God labels dishonesty as an abomin- ation (Prov. 11:1) and clearly states that the liar will have no place in His presence, but is doomed to a life of torment (Rev. 21:8). God doesn't want to be around liars. Only the one who "walks with integrity...and speaks truth in his heart" may dwell in God's tent and on His holy hill (Psa. 15:2). So when we treat one another with dishonesty, God takes it personally. Third, Realize How Much Of Your Life Honesty Encompasses: -- Honesty includes not padding your work hours, not exaggerat- ing tax deductions, not cheating on a test, speaking up when lies or half-truths are being circulated, giving back excess chan- ge and returning borrowed items (Psa. 37:21). Allowing some- one to think that something is true, when you are fully aware of its falsity, is dishonest. I was surprised to notice how many times God condemns false weights and measurements in the Old Testament, "Differing weights and differing measures, both of them are abominable to the Lord" (Prov. 20:10). God even conditions Israel's continuation in the promised land to the honesty of weight and measurement standards (Deut. 25:13-16; see also Lev. 19:35,36; Prov. 11:1). This is one reason Jesus was so angry with the merchants in the Temple. It had become a "robber's den" (Matt. 21:13), where exchange rates and stand- ards had been tampered with. Jesus condemned the Pharisees and scribes for assigning conditions to the completion of their vows on the alleged significance of an item (Matt. 23:16-22). They had priced their honesty and put it on sale. Honesty is in- volved in so many aspects of our lives and we need to own up to that. Fourth, Think About Who Dishonesty Affects: -- Dishonesty affects more than just those with whom you are dishonest. The ripples spread out much farther. In a 2008 summary by the Josephson Institute, it states that 83% of high school students have lied to their parents about something significant. 64% said they cheated on a test. The irony is that 26% of the students admitted that they lied on the survey. The clincher, 93% of the students said they were satisfied with their personal ethics and character. Frightening, right? Guess who sets the bar for these kids? Grown ups, parents, grandparents, teachers, etc. Your dishonesty has huge fall outs. You want the next generation to be honest? then you be honest before them. Finally, own up and repent. When you are dishonest, be honest with yourself (1 Jno. 1:9). Set it straight with the person with whom you were dishonest (Deut. 25:13-16). Then reflect on the situation and determine how it will be handled differently next time. Vow to be different and lock the door on dishonesty. Remember, you are not just trying to go by the rules, you are developing a character that will determine your destiny. --------- Norm Webb, jr. via The Jackson Drive Reporter, Dec. 13, 2009. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091214/b4cf523d/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Mon Dec 14 04:44:46 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Mon, 14 Dec 2009 05:44:46 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) THE CHURCH THAT JESUS BUILT (2) Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is the second installment of this particular study. Use to the glory of God. THE CHURCH THAT JESUS BUILT (2) It Is Not Denominational In Any Sense Of The Word:-- Modern religious division has so conditioned religious thought that most people cannot even imagine a church that is not a denomi- nation. But Jesus never built a denomination! Not one, and not four hundred! But He built His church. Therefore, "the church that Jesus built" is NOT a denomination. Look at the prayer of Jesus in Jno. 17:20,21, "Neither pray I for these (apostles) alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one is Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me." The prayer of our Lord was that all belivers would be ONE, but denominationalism divides believers, and thus stands opposed to Jesus Christ. We are exhorted "To contend earnestly for the faith, once for all delivered unto the saints" (Jude 3). This is not a choice of faiths, but the one faith God delivers for all. After identifying the body as the church (Eph. 1:22,23), Paul wrote in Eph. 4:4-6, "There is one body, and one Spirit, even as also ye were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God." Should we have a choice as to which God we shall serve? Or which Lord? Friend, there is no more authority for the "church of your choice" than for the "God of your choice." When believers were divided into various denominations in the City of Corinth, God wrote to them by the hand of the apostle Paul: "That ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you...Is Christ divided?" (1 Cor. 1:10-13). The "church that Christ built" is not a denomination, or is it a collect-ion of all of them. As 1 Cor. 1:10-13 and other passages show: denominationalism is SIN. Jesus never authorized such a syst- em, and He prayed it would never be. It's Only Organization Is A Local Congregation: -- In our time, when everything from retail stores to government is organized in such a way as to centralize authority and control, the simple organization of the "church that Jesus built" astounds many. Jesus never designed any kind of "central authority" except Himself! He said, "All authority is given unto Me" (Matt. 28:18). He never delegated any man, nor group of men, to exercise authority over His body of people, the church. When Paul wrote "The churches of Christ salute you" (Rom. 16:16), he never made mention of a "diocese" or "parish" or "synod" or other kinds of grouping. Each "church of Christ" stood on equal foot- ing with every other church of Christ in the world. They were united by a common faith, but not tied together by any organiz- ational structure. The "churches of Christ" of 2000 years ago were autonomous, with each congregation directing its own work of the Lord. The organization of the local congregations of "the church that Jesus built" is simple. There were appointed "elders in every church" (Acts 14:23). who were also called "bishops" and "pastors" (Eph. 4:11). Their qualifications are found in 1 Tim. 3: 1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. A partial description of their work is found in 1 Pet. 5:1,2, "The elders therefore among you I exhort...Tend the flock of God which is among you, exercising the oversight." These were spiritual shepherds who were to "watch for your souls" (Heb. 13:17). In a local congregation there were also deacons (or "servants" of the church, Phil. 1:1) whose qualities are listed in 1 Tim. 3:8-13. There were also evangelists (ministers, preachers and teachers) in the congregations. Scripture reveals, however, that only the elders (bishops, shepherds) were given authority to "Oversee" (supervise) the activities of the local congregation. And their oversight was limited to "the flock of God which is among you" (1 Pet. 5:2). They were not given authority to over- see other congregations than the one in which they were appointed. ----- (More will be posted on this subject tomorrow, the Lord willing, JWS). -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091214/2975d00f/attachment-0001.html From GLClair at aol.com Mon Dec 14 09:13:06 2009 From: GLClair at aol.com (GLClair at aol.com) Date: Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:13:06 EST Subject: [Biblemat] Fwd: FW: Obama Admits He's a Muslim Watch it Quick Message-ID: ____________________________________ From: rblatt at benchmarkwoodworks.com To: glclair at aol.com, randyarcher at wannermetalworx.com, sled at sbcglobal.net Sent: 12/14/2009 7:08:22 A.M. Eastern Standard Time Subj: FW: Obama Admits He's a Muslim Watch it Quick WE HAD THIS FOR ONE DAY LAST WEEK AND THEY TOOK IT DOWN. PASS IT ON AS SOON AS YOU CAN SO EVERYONE WILL SEE HIS TRUE COLORS. The strongest video clips I have ever seen and they are from his own mouth ? _http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=tCAffMSWSzY#t=28_ (http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=tCAffMSWSzY#t=28) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091214/4d95510b/attachment-0001.html From terrywbenton at bellsouth.net Mon Dec 14 09:56:40 2009 From: terrywbenton at bellsouth.net (Terry W. Benton) Date: Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:56:40 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] How Do We Receive the Holy Spirit Today? Message-ID: <28208E4372AD4CDFB6A34A7CC6E3A1C0@TerryPC> How Do We Receive the Holy Spirit today? 1). Listen to His revealed and confirmed word in the gospel. Rom.10:17; Acts 2:37 2). Let the truth of His word convict you of truth about Jesus, truth about your sin, and the truth of your desperate need for mercy and grace. - Acts 2:37; John 16:13f 3). Repent of your sins and of your resistance of the Holy Spirit - Acts 2:38; 7:51 4). Be baptized in water (Acts 2:38; 10:47-48) in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins. 5). You will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (salvation from sin and condemnation) Acts 2:38,39,21; Rom. 8:1 6) Failure to submit to His message is "resisting the Holy Spirit". Acts 7:51 7) Those who resist remain lost and condemned. Heb.10:29; Rom.3:23; 6:23 What Happens at the point of Spirit guided baptism in the name of Jesus Christ? 1) You are added to the church (Acts 2:47) or baptized into One Body - 1 Cor.12:13 2) You are showing faith and God operates to remove the sins of the flesh - Col.2:12 3) You have buried the old man in baptism with Christ, are forgiven, and rise to walk in newness of life - Rom.6:3-5 4) You have "put on Christ" and have been adopted as sons and daughters. Gal.3:26,27 5) You have been spiritually translated out of darkness and into the kingdom of God's dear Son. Col.1:13 6) Your sins are washed away - Acts 22:16; 2:38 - "you are washed" -1 Cor.6:11 7) You body becomes the temple of the Holy Spirit - 1 Cor.6:19,20 8) You are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus - Acts 2:38; 1 Cor.6:11 9) You are sanctified by the Spirit of our God - 1 Cor.6:11 10) You are saved from sin and condemnation. Mk.16:16; 1 Pet.3:21 11) Your conscience is cleaned in the blood of Christ. 1 Pet.3:21; Heb.9:14; 10:22 12) Your old manner of life is washed away and you are a new creature in Christ. 2 Cor.5:17 13) Your name is written in the Lamb's book of life - Phil.3:20; 4:3 14) You begin growing to spiritual maturity. 2 Pet.1:5-10; 1 Pet.2:1-3 ~ TerryW. Benton -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091214/cf776444/attachment-0001.html From kerux at bellsouth.net Mon Dec 14 15:49:52 2009 From: kerux at bellsouth.net (Kent Heaton) Date: Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:49:52 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] A>He Had Focus (Kent Heaton) Message-ID: <94147D43AC494CA382C93990743E17B5@D2381J91> He Had Focus (Kent Heaton) The disciples entered the boat and began sailing to the other side of the Sea of Galilee (Matthew 14:22). As common in this part of the world, a strong storm suddenly came upon the boat and began lashing the crew with waves of water. It was early morning and the wind was quite contrary and the disciples struggled to keep their course. They had traveled about three or four miles (John 6:19) when through the wind whipped sea of foam the men saw an apparition that terrified them. "But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.' And Peter answered Him and said, 'Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.' So He said, 'Come.' And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus" (Matthew 14:27-29). Much is said about Peter's lack of faith in the next few verses when he became afraid and beginning to sink, crying out for the Lord to save him. An equal amount of purpose should be given to the incredible focus he had to even attempt to step out of the boat. The first reaction of the disciples was pure terror at the image of the Lord coming (Matthew 14:26). They could not imagine what spirit would be walking on the water toward them. Peter's first response was like the other disciples. Something amazing happened in the mind of Peter upon the Lord's assurance to be of good cheer and fear not. Peter immediately recognized the situation for what it was. He was witnessing the awesome power of God and he wanted to be a part of it. "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water" (Matthew 14:28). Peter possessed something none of the other disciples had - wonder working faith. No other disciple offered to step out of the boat. Peter did and he meant to follow through. This was not idle request. Peter had focus. He could see through the impossible and believe in the impossible. Gabriel told Mary, "With God nothing will be impossible" (Luke 1:37). Mary believed in the impossible because she had a single focus upon the power and will of God. When the disciple of the Lord sought permission to walk on water he asked for the power of God. Jesus said, "Come" (Matthew 14:29). What was Peter to do now? Was it only a hesitant plea of courage that caused him to ask? Would he dare move to the side of the boat and put his leg over? Could he believe to do the impossible and walk on water? Peter had focus. He moved to the side of the boat. The other disciples watched in shock and dismay and disbelief as Peter made his way over the side. To their wondering eyes Peter did not sink. To the courageous faith of Peter he was walking on water. The fisherman was now walking on water. He had focus. He had purpose. He had the power of God doing the impossible in his life. Jesus called Peter by the name Simon Bar-Jonah in Matthew 16:17. How fitting one surnamed the son of Jonah was now walking on water. Peter had focus. Imagine what you and I can do with the focus that took Peter out of the boat and on to the water. Would we be among the disciples who remained in the boat with little faith and little courage to expect the impossible? Can we have the focus that Peter had in the Lord to do the impossible? "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13). It takes focus. It takes courage. It takes stepping out of the boat of doubt and laziness and walking on water. Keep your eyes on Jesus! Kent Heaton 206 NE Fourth Avenue Trenton, Florida 32693 (H) 352-463-6916 (O) 3793 (C) 352-283-3889 www.trentonchurchofchrist.com Audio Sermons Available www.northfloridabiblecamp.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091214/9d862155/attachment.html From chris.gautney at gmail.com Mon Dec 14 10:14:51 2009 From: chris.gautney at gmail.com (Chris Gautney) Date: Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:14:51 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] The Paralytic Bourne of Four Message-ID: <9fd765230912140814h681ad433p3bf30b90bbe15001@mail.gmail.com> ** * THE PARALYTIC BORNE OF FOUR ? MK. 2:1-12 Intro: In this passage we have a cross-section of humanity ? men as we find them on the street, on the highway, and in their homes. We see the helpless man, the helpers, the healer, and the hinderers. Disc. A. The Helpless He was an object of pity. He lost the power of voluntary motion. He had to depend on friends to move him from place to place. He was more than a paralytic, he was a sinner. He is a representative man. Sin is a disease; it makes men inert. It paralyzes noble efforts. (Jn. 5:40) B. The Healer Many are the helpless people, but only one heals. He is the great physician (Matt. 8:9-13). For this noble work He is divinely qualified. 1. He is sympathetic ? never turned anyone away who came to him for help. 2. He has authority from above ? displayed on this occasion by a miracle (Mat..28:18) 3. He has the remedy. He sent His word and healed them. The gospel is God?s power to save (Rom. 1:16). C. The Healers The Four friends of the helpless man could not heal their afflicted friend but brought him to the healer who could. We cannot save sinners, but it is often within our power to bring them to Jesus. 1. Note the characteristics of the helpers a. Faith in the healer b. Love of the afflicted man c. Spirit of cooperation. Worked together (2 Cor. 6:1; Gal. 5:6) d. Determination ? Removed roof overcoming all obstacles 2. Their first objective was to bring one to Jesus but when they did, they arrived their also. No person is nearer to the Lord than the soul winners. D. The Hinders (Two types) 1. The Passive ? They stood in the door, blocking the way. They meant no harm, but they hindered a good work. They represented a self-seeking, self-serving group, who are unmindful of the lost. 2. The Active ? They are the cold, carping critics sitting in the seat of the scornful, looking for flaws. They were malicious without a constructive program. Conclusion: 1. Let us classify ourselves. We cannot be the healer. If we are the helpless, we should seek the healer. If we are the hinders, we should cease. All should be the helpers. 2. The primary work of the church is not to feed the hungry or clothe the naked, although the church should care for its own. The primary work of the church is to preach the gospel, to being the lost to Christ so they can be saved. * -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091214/0ff0a7f4/attachment-0001.html From chris.gautney at gmail.com Mon Dec 14 11:04:42 2009 From: chris.gautney at gmail.com (Chris Gautney) Date: Mon, 14 Dec 2009 11:04:42 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] Word & Work - Neh. 8 Message-ID: <9fd765230912140904h5f9d4364pb8adc12e7b73b947@mail.gmail.com> Most likely if you preach regularly, you already have a Nehemiah 8 sermon. Here is one from my files hopefully of benefit. ~Chris Gautney WORD AND WORK ? Neh. 8:1-15 I. The preacher 1. v.1 ? He was a scribe 2. v. 2 ? He was a priest a. Priest ? recipient of God?s grace b. Scribe ? Recipient of God?s truth 3. Grace and Truth came by Jesus Christ &, in a sense, by every preacher. II. Place of Meeting 1. v.3 ? Before the street ? temple of God had been forsaken 2. v.4 ? A pulpit of wood ? 3. Building is a place of meeting, but can?t be without presence of God 4. Not much gospel preaching done on streets today III. The Hearers 1. v.2 ? Numerous ? literally hungered for the Word of God 2. v.3 ? Attentive ? sought message rather than the man 3. v.4 ? Reverent ? stood up, declared willingness to hear 4. v.6 ? Responsive ? a solemn thing to hear word and not yield IV. The Preacher?s Manner 1. Began by blessing the Lord ? realized the greatness of the occasion 2. He stuck to the book ? v.8 ? not his thoughts but the Word of God 3. He spoke distinctly ? v.8 4. He explained the text ? some say expository sermons work best 5. He enforced the truth ? It?s not enough just to hear, but we must obey V. The Effect Produced 1. They wept ? it brought conviction; the Word is quick and powerful 2. They rejoiced ? v.12; final result was rejoicing 3. They ministered ? v.10,13; we must remember those who are outside of the kingdom of God -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091214/28fc7f80/attachment-0001.html From j5827sasser at wmconnect.com Tue Dec 15 04:42:29 2009 From: j5827sasser at wmconnect.com (j5827sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Tue, 15 Dec 2009 05:42:29 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) THE CHURCH THAT JESUS BUILT (3) Message-ID: <836.756d7874.3858c215@wmconnect.com> Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is the third installment on this particular subject. Use to the glory of God THE CHURCH THAT JESUS BUILT (3) Its Worship Is Simple, Sincere And Scriptural: -- The prophet re- vealed much about worship when he said: "What doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?" (Mic. 6:8). Why should worship be eith- er a meaningless ritual or the artificial hype of emotionalism? Jesus put it this way: "God is a Spirit; and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and truth." (Jno. 4:24). Our wors- hip, to be acceptable to Him, must be as He directs: "In vain do they worship Me, teaching for doctrine the commandments of men." (Matt. 15:9). Scripture reveals the simplicity of worship in "the church that Jesus built." We read: "They continued stedfastly in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and the prayers." (Acts 2:42). As the Lord directed: "Upon the first day of the week, the disciples came together to break bread" (Acts 20:7), thus, they commemorated His death and suffering in partaking of the memorial feast, the Lord's Supper (Matt. 26:26- 28; 1 Cor. 11:23-28). In the assemblies for worship, they sang: "Speaking one to another in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord" (Eph. 5: 19). Without the showboating of jazz bands or other mechanical instruments of music, they offered "a sacrifice of praise to God... that is, the fruit of their lips" (Heb. 13:15). And on the first day of the week, they gave "as they had prospered" into the treasury of the congregation. They did this as they "purposed in their in their hearts" (1 Cor. 16:1,2; 2 Cor. 9:7). It Teaches Salvation By Faith In Christ: -- Paul wrote of the gos- pel, in this way: "For it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth" (Rom. 1:16). And again he says: "Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." (Rom. 5:1). When Peter recounted the time he preached first to the Gentiles, he said of God: "He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith" (Acts 15:9). The same way God saves one, He saves each one who is saved. So, in like manner both Gentile and Jew are saved. The Scriptures reveal that saving faith is "faith which works by love" (Gal. 5:6). Many teach the idea that "we are saved by faith only." But the Scriptures do not teach that. In fact, the only time the expression, "faith only," is used in the Bible is in Jas. 2:24. From (vs. 14), the inspired writer has shown that faith must be accompanied by obedience, or it is dead. Then, "Ye see that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.' It is still true that Jesus is "the Author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him" (Heb. 5:9), and "Ye have purified your souls in your obedience to the truth" (1 Pet. 1:22). So, it is obedient faith that makes us free from sin (Rom. 6:17,18). (We will post more on this subject tomorrow, the Lord willing, JWS). From j5827sasser at wmconnect.com Tue Dec 15 04:42:18 2009 From: j5827sasser at wmconnect.com (j5827sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Tue, 15 Dec 2009 05:42:18 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) MY NAME Message-ID: <834.23657629.3858c20a@wmconnect.com> Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Tuesday morning to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an artic- le from my files: MY NAME When I was born my parents named me. It is a name I wear with pride. It is a name that I protect. It is a name that honors my father here on earth. However, there is another name by which I am named, that means more to me than the name my father here on earth gave. The name that means even more to me is the name Christian. (Lee Greenwood sings the song "I am proud to be an American." It is truly a blessing for all that are named by this name. Lee goes on to say he "would defend the right to be called an American."). We too, should be willing to defend the name Christian. Think for a moment about how special it is to be a child of God, a Christian. Peter tells us we are a special people, a holy people, and a royal people (1 Pet. 2:9). The way we wear the name of our Lord says everything about Him, does it not? As much as each of us are proud of our family name and seek to protect it from disrepute, we should be even more aware of hon- oring our Father in heaven. First, it means we try to be like Him. We want to glorify Him so that others will see Him in us. Our very character and dispos- ition is to be His. As the song states, you and I may be the only Bible people may read. So, we want to reveal Him to them by being as much like Him as possible. Second, we don't want to disappoint Him. One day we shall be as He is (1 Jno. 3:1,2). We shall stand before Him and give answer for how we have borne the name Christian, child of God. Our fear should not be that of hell, but having a holy disappoint- ment. He gave Himself for us, bled and died for us, paid the great price for us, and suffered for us. Jesus said, "I do all things always that please My Father." We too, want to please Him. That is our one great desire. Third, we are not accidents. We were planned by the eternal purpose of God (Rom. 8:29). God's plan was to have a people that would be His in a special way, a people who would willingly submit to His rule of law, a people who would love Him because He first loved them. Remember the pride you felt at the birth of your first child? The child that would bear your name among men and before your Lord. Remember the joy you had at the birth of your very own child. So, it is, that the angels of heaven rejoice when we become children of God in a special way bear- ing the name of His only begotten Son, Christian. The purpose of the Father is achieved in you when you take up His name and His cross a follow Him daily. We wear a name that is above every other name. We wear a name of honor. We wear the name of the Creator of this world and all that is found within it. We wear a name whereby we find salvation from the sins of the world. We wear the name of the Great Redeemer. We must never forget who we are -- and whose we are. --------------- Rickie Jenkins in Biblical Insights, Vol. 8, No. 11, Nov. 2008. From robertwater at gmail.com Tue Dec 15 05:39:48 2009 From: robertwater at gmail.com (Robert Waters) Date: Tue, 15 Dec 2009 05:39:48 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] S> Are You Under A Curse? Message-ID: Greetings to the list, Below my signature is the sermon I preached Sunday. Sources used in throwing it together were Jimmy Draper (Baptist preacher) and John Waddey. If you are a preacher and would like to have the enhanced copy along with PowerPoint, contact me privately. Robert Waters www.TotalHealth.bz * * * * * ARE YOU LIVING UNDER A CURSE? * *A. Definition: * 1. The word "curse" is found 101 times in the KJV Bible and the word "coursed" is found 73 times. 2. A curse is any expressed wish that some form of adversity or unhappiness will befall another person or persons. It is a wish that harm or hurt will be inflicted by a supernatural power, such as a spell, a prayer, magic, witchcraft, a god, a natural force, or a spirit. *ISBE* 3. In many belief systems, the curse itself (or accompanying ritual) is considered to possess an inherent power of carrying itself into effect. 4. 2 The word "curse" is often used in contrast with "bless" or "blessing." Deu_11:29 - And it shall come to pass, when the LORD thy God hath brought thee in unto the land whither thou goest to possess it, that thou shalt put the blessing upon mount Gerizim, and the curse upon mount Ebal. a. When a curse is pronounced against any person, we are not to understand this as a mere wish, however violent, that disaster should overtake the person in question, any more than we are to understand that a corresponding "blessing" conveys simply a wish that prosperity should be the lot of the person on whom the blessing is invoked. b. To be under a curse can be a fearful thing-even if there is no real power behind it. 1) But if you are under a curse from God there is real power behind it and it should be extremely fearful to one who is so cursed. 2) You may actually be "cursed" of God and not know it. 5. One who is cursed of God is: a) under God's disfavor. b) He is destined to destruction c) He will be damned if he does not repent. B. Surely all rational people would take all necessary precautions to avoid the curses of God. C. The following nine points are areas wherein we can incur the curse of God. Let each of us examine our heart to see how we stand relative to them. * * *Body * * I. Do you truly love God? * A. Paul says, I Cor. 16:22 - "If a man loveth not the Lord, Let him be cursed (BBE)". 1. This love must be of the superlative degree: all of our heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:30). a. It is not enough just to proclaim our love, we must prove the sincerity of it: 2 Cor 8:8 - I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. b. The true test of anyone's love for God is his faithful obedience to the commands of God John 14:15 - If you love me keep my commandments. 2. Remember, the man who loveth not the Lord is cursed. *II. Do you seek to obey God in all things? * A. Moses challenged the children of Israel with these thoughts: Deut. 11:26 - "Behold I set before you this day a blessing and a curse: the blessing if ye hearken unto the commandment...and the curse if ye shall not hearken unto the commandments of Jehovah...". 1. We are not privileged to select our choice of commands to obey. a. Under the Law, even the smallest and seemingly insignificant ones are to be honored. Matt. 5:19 - Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. b. That one's attitude regarding God's commands directly affects our salvation is seen in the statement of Jesus: John 3:36 - He that obeyeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him. 2. The Christian seeks to obey God in all things because he loves his Lord, but also to avoid falling under a curse. *III. Are you trying to live under the Law of Moses? * A. The apostle Paul warns: Galatians 3:10 For as many as are under the works of the law are under a curse. Again he says, "Ye are severed from Christ, ye who would be justified by the law, ye are fallen away from grace" (Gal. 5:4). 1. It is tragic to see so many people in the Seventh Day Adventist and other denominations subjecting themselves to a curse, by seeking to live by the old law in part or in whole. 2. We should be happy to live by the new covenant of Jesus which offers grace and pardon. B. While we understand the old covenant to be profitable "for our learning" (Rom. 15:4) and that it contains examples so that we might not bring on the wrath of God (1 Cor. 10:6), we do not look to it as our law. 1. Rather, we look to the Law of Christ, referred to as the "perfect law of liberty". Jas 1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. Jas 2:12 So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty. * IV. Do you put your trust and confidence in men and their words, rather than God? * A. It is amazing how many folks reject some plain statement of gospel truth from the Bible because it does not agree with the teachings of their pastor or holy father or even their parents. B. Jeremiah warned, Jer 17:5 - Cursed is the man that trusteth in man?whose heart departeth from Jehovah. 1. Never trust the salvation of your soul to the hands of religious teachers. 2. We should be like the noble people of Berea, who received Paul's preaching with all readiness of mind, but then searched the scriptures to see if his words were so (Acts 17:11). 3. Never believe a thing because a man said it, but because you can read it in your own Bible. *V. Are you failing to give God your best gifts and to put Him first in your life? * A. Multitudes are willing to be Christians if it can be on their terms. 1. They are more than willing to give God second place in their lives-material possessions being first. 2. Malachi dealt with the same attitude in his day, Mal. 3:8-9 - Will a man rob God? Yet ye rob me. But ye say, wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye rob me, even this whole nation. b. Remember that one can bring a curse upon himself if he does not give back unto God according as He has instructed. *VI. Do you give God the honor and glory for all that you are and all that you have? * A. Malachi wrote, "If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto my name, saith the LORD of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart." (Mal. 2:2). 1. The age old sin of pride prompts men to claim the honor and glory of their success for themselves. 2. God's word is not silent on this: a. Paul and Barnabas rehearsed all things God had done with them (Acts 14:27). b. Paul said, we plant and water, but God gives the increase (I Cor. 3:6). c. Even at our best we are unprofitable servants (Luke 17:10). B. The church today is not free from this problem. a. Many problems in congregations, schools, papers and other good works stem from the unholy desire for honor and glory. b. Little do these aspiring brethren realize that they are subjecting themselves to a curse. *VII. Do you teach an other gospel than that which the apostle preached? * A. This solemn warning comes from the inspired pen of Paul, "But though we, or an angel from heaven, should preach unto you any gospel other than that which we preach unto you, let him be anathema" (Gal. 1:8). 1. So serious was this practice that he again repeats the warning in the next verse. 2. In a world that has numerous religions teaching things contrary to the doctrine of Christ, surely a great part of the world stands accursed. B. No wonder James said, James 3:11 Be not many of you teachers, my brethren, knowing that we shall receive heavier judgment. C. John says that the teacher who abides not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God (II John 9-11). *VIII. Are you negligent in doing God's work? * A. Jeremiah said, "Cursed be he that doeth the work of Jehovah negligently." B. Every saint should ask himself, how am I doing my Lord's work? C. We must be diligent in our efforts and loyal to the word? * I. Are you helpful to your fellow-man? * A. In the 25th chapter of Matthew we are given a vivid scene of Judgment Day: For those whose hearts were hard and untouched at the plight of suffering humanity, Jesus will say: Depart from me, ye cursed, into the eternal fire which is prepared for the devil and his angels, for I was hungry, and ye did not give me to eat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me not in; naked, and ye clothed me not; sick and in prison, and ye visited me not (Matt. 25:41-43). B. In our busy world, we often seem to have no time for such small matters as helping the kind of people Jesus describes. 1. Often, we in the middle and upper stratus are so insulated from the suffering of the masses that we feel no need to seek them out to minister to their needs. 2. But in failing to care for those who desperately need our help we bring God's curse upon us. *Conclusion: * A. All true curses in the Bible were invoked by God or in behalf of God by His prophets or apostles. B. Satan is real and he is working against believers, but no curse is attributed to Satan anywhere in the Bible. 1. So there is, in fact, no such thing as a satanic curse. 2. When God pronounced a curse in the Bible, it was a divine judgment upon people because of sin. a. Sometimes the curse or judgment was pronounced by the servant of God as in Deuteronomy 27-28. b. Blessing or cursing in life was all conditioned upon the people's obedience to God. 1) When God's people obeyed Him, He blessed them. 2) When they disobeyed Him, He brought divine judgment or discipline upon them, and it is the same today for us. 3. This curse of God is not a curse in the sense of an evil spell, but simply the judgment of God. a. The proper response to the judgment of God that results in removal of the curse is repentance, not exorcism. b. The only true "curses" come from God as an expression of His justice when His people have failed to respond to Him in absolute obedience. 4. "Curse" in the Old Testament is summed up in the statement from Jeremiah: Jer. 11:3b Let a curse be on the man who does not obey the words of this covenant. C. We should want (at all cost) to avoid a curse of God. 1. Rather, we should seek with all diligence to obtain the blessings of God. 2 Cor 8:7 Therefore, as ye abound in everything, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. We can obtain the blessing of God if we obey Christ. John 14:15 - If you love me keep my commandments. Heb. 5:9 - And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; C. We close this negative type lesson of dire warnings with a cheerful note 1. For the saved who are faithful unto death, we are told that in heaven, "there shall be no curse any more" (Rev. 22:3). 2. May we so live and die that we may enjoy that blessed peace throughout eternity. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091215/73b7028b/attachment-0001.html From GLClair at aol.com Tue Dec 15 09:41:42 2009 From: GLClair at aol.com (GLClair at aol.com) Date: Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:41:42 EST Subject: [Biblemat] =?utf-8?q?Article_-_DEFENDING_THE_CHRISTIAN=E2=80=99S_?= =?utf-8?b?UklHSFQgICBUTyDigJxTVEFORCBGSVJN4oCd?= Message-ID: DEFENDING THE CHRISTIAN?S RIGHT TO ?STAND FIRM? After 50+ years of preaching and teaching God?s word you would think that I would be softened a bit about pointing out error or wickedness of others. Well; it just is not going to happen! I have always stood firm and unashamed to admit my mistakes and errors and have been just as firm to point out error and false religious teaching in the lives, actions, and teaching of others. We are told by Holy Scripture to do this; Reference follows: 2 Timothy 4:1-5 1 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; 2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. KJV 1 Co. 16:13-14 13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. 14 Let all your things be done with charity. KJV Eph. 6:13-14 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having KJV Today there is an attitude of calm in the face of false religious philosophy, wickedness in the life of political and religious leaders and their errors and their dangerous and condemning positions need to be exposed. Whenever a righteous soul (i.e. man or woman) reveals the wicked facts about another person (regardless of who that person is or what position that person holds; in religion, politics, or occupation). Their false religion and their sinful ways must be announced to whosoever will listen. This exposure of false religion, false religious teachers, false and dishonest politicians, preachers and teachers, must be exposed and efforts must be made to correct their actions that influence or may influence others to follow their teaching or actions whether in religion, education, or politics. References follow ? Acts 13:10 And said, O full of all subtlety and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? KJV 2 Peter 2:9-19 9 The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: 10 But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, self-willed, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. 11 Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord. 12 But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; 13 And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you; 14 Having eyes full of adultery and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: And heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children: 15 Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; 16 But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man's voice forbad the madness of the prophet. 17 These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. 18 For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. 19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. KJV CONCLUSION: May we all regard sin as awful and that which we must condemn wherever it occurs. Let us recognize the concepts used by the wicked such as deceit, the use of repeated phrases or actions designed to break down our resistance to sins of the flesh or defense of marriage, honesty, integrity, political office, etc. Remember this; the Christian, the church, or the nation?s leaders (political) are accountable to Almighty God just like the peasant in the labor force in America and all other countries on earth. Indeed, let us stand and defend both for the righteousness of God and because we are advocates of the righteousness of God on earth today. God indeed, has no voice but the voice of dedicated Christians today ? ?therefore stand?. _glclair at aol.com_ (mailto:glclair at aol.com) December 15, 2009 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091215/2fa8bcaa/attachment-0001.html From disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Tue Dec 15 15:00:24 2009 From: disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com (Ethan R. Longhenry) Date: Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:00:24 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] S:> Saying and Doing Message-ID: Saying and Doing I. Introduction A. Matthew 23:2-4 1. Jesus begins His condemnation of the Pharisees and scribes by pointing out their hypocrisy 2. They say, but they do not do! 3. They understand enough to tell others what they should do, but they themselves are not willing to bear the same burdens! B. James 1:22-25 1. The contrast between hearing and doing 2. Like the man looking at his face, forgets what he sees 3. Very easy to do! C. 2 Corinthians 10:11 1. Paul shows us the way it ought to be 2. What we say is what we do! D. How can we get to the point where we are doing what we say? II. What Are We Saying? A. The first thing we need to consider is what we are saying! B. After all, perhaps we are saying what we are doing-- but we should not be saying or doing those things! C. Ephesians 4:25: we are to speak truth with one another D. We are to speak God's word as entrusted to us by Him (2 Corinthians 2:17) E. Matthew 12:34/Luke 6:45 1. Our mouth speaks out of the "abundance of the heart" 2. If the heart is full of evil, thus the mouth will speak 3. But if the heart is full of good things, because it has been filled with good things (Philippians 4:8, Galatians 5:22-24), thus the mouth will speak F. Therefore, we ought to say what is right and good and holy! III. What Are We Really Doing? A. If we are saying what we ought to say, what are we doing? B. When we consider this question, we must remember that we are asking what we are really doing, and not what we intend to do or what we think we are doing C. The Double Standard-- Matthew 7:1-5 1. A familiar passage to us 2. Yet it reveals the double standard! 3. verse 2-- judgment by the same standard 4. verses 3-5-- can see speck in another's eye, not log in own eye! 5. Indicates a truism: we judge ourselves by our intentions and "best side," while we judge others by their actual performance 6. In turn, we are judged by others by our actual performance! D. The Double Standard injurious in many ways 1. First of all, it hinders us from being able to help and serve our fellow man 2. Yet we, also, ultimately suffer! 3. After all, we're the ones with the log in our eye and we don't know it! E. How do we not see the "log"? 1. There are some people who are entirely oblivious for various reasons 2. Some cannot stand to look at themselves in reality and choose to accept the lie about themselves 3. Others are just clueless 4. But the majority of people are not oblivious! 5. Instead, we always allow our examinations of ourselves to be colored by our intentions and what we know we can be as opposed to seeing ourselves for who we really are! a. We know that in our minds we have the right priorities, even if we do not act on them b. We know that we can do better and perhaps at times have done better, and we rest ourselves in that thought 6. Yet, all the while, everyone around us sees what we are actually doing apart from our intentions and attitudes! F. Thus, when we look at the "speck" in others' eyes... 1. ...we should remember our own "log" 2. We should recognize that others probably also are seeing themselves according to their intentions which are probably better than their actions, as with ourselves G. Solution: take out the "log"! (cf. 2 Corinthians 13:5) 1. We must be humble and honest enough to see ourselves as we really are 2. Not pleasant, uncomfortable, but necessary for true discipleship! 3. Then, armed with proper humility, a recognition of our own failures, and an attitude of love and concern for others, we can help our brother with his "speck" (cf. Galatians 6:1-2) IV. The Impact of Saying and Doing A. Remember: everyone around you sees you for what you actually do, not what you intend to do or hope to do B. This is true in every relationship! C. Marriage 1. Your husband or wife sees what you actually do, and by reason of closeness to you may understand your hopes or intentions (Genesis 2:24), but still see whatever hypocrisies may exist 2. It may be easy to complain about what they are doing-- but could they just as easily complain about what you are doing? In the end, whose behavior can you change-- theirs or yours? D. Parenting 1. Children have great hypocrisy detectors-- they know the difference between what you say and what you do! 2. Contrary to whatever you may hope or say, they will more likely do what you do than do what you say if you do not do it-- and many children are turned off to religion because of the hypocrisy of their parents 3. Ephesians 6:1-4: raising children in discipline and admonition of the Lord requires your actual conduct as much as your words! E. Friends and Family 1. Friends and family are influenced by your conduct, attitude, and words 2. If you are the ambassador to Christ for your family or friends, what message are they receiving (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:20)? 3. Are they learning of the peace that surpasses understanding or do they see that you are no different from anyone else in the world (Philippians 4:7, Matthew 5:13-16)? F. Work or School 1. Do the people around you at work or school know that you are a Christian by what you say or by what you say and do (cf. Ephesians 6:5-9)? 2. Do you serve in your capacities or do you reflect similar attitudes as everyone else? G. Among brethren 1. Do you keep your commitments to brethren? 2. Do you seek to encourage as you are encouraged (Hebrews 10:24), or is it a "one way street" for you? 3. Are you a support or strength for other Christians, or a cause for discouragement? H. Before God and Christ 1. Are you honest with yourself before God in prayer, or do you try to fool God? 2. Is He your greatest priority (Matthew 6:33)? Not just ideally, but in reality? 3. Do you affirm that Christ is Lord not just in word but also by doing the will of His Father (cf. Matthew 7:21-23)? I. These are difficult and demanding questions! J. We can see, however, how we can have a very strong impact in the lives of others by what we do versus what we say! V. Conclusion A. The world has never lacked people who say one thing but do another B. While Christians will always be hypocritical at some level, since we are not perfect and we stumble (1 John 1:8), we should strive to make what God says and what we do match! C. We ought to consider our faults and failings and be humble, granting mercy and understanding to others for their faults and failings as we would like to have the same mercy and understanding (cf. Luke 6:31) D. Let us say and do, and praise God for His mercy! E. Invitation/songbook Ethan R. Longhenry / disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Evangelist, church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio [norwalkchurch.org] Homepage: deusvitae.com AIM: Deus Vitae / ICQ: 28317056 Y! IM: discipuliiesus Spiritual Manna A biweekly devotional for your life. http://www.deusvitae.com/faith/manna From disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Tue Dec 15 15:01:16 2009 From: disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com (Ethan R. Longhenry) Date: Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:01:16 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] S:> 1 Peter 2:4-10: The Spiritual House Message-ID: 1 Peter 2:4-10: The Spiritual House I. Base Text: 1 Peter 2:4-10 II. Understanding the Text A. Background 1. 1 Peter 1:1-9: great encouragement in the midst of trial-- hope of the Christian based in the resurrection, salvation ready for the final day 2. 1 Peter 1:10-12: Great value of salvation, desire of angels to investigate it 3. 1 Peter 1:13-21: first application: set hope fully on grace, be holy in conduct, conduct self with fear throughout life, ransomed by blood of Christ 4. 1 Peter 1:22-25: second application: having been purified through obedience, love earnestly from a pure heart, having been born again by the imperishable Word of God, the Gospel 5. 1 Peter 2:1-3: Put away wickedness, grow up into salvation through pure spiritual milk of Word, if you have tasted that the Lord is good B. The Spiritual House (1 Peter 2:4-5) 1. Peter begins by making the statement for which he will then make his argument 2. "As we come to Jesus"-- initial obedience, growth in faith (Romans 8:29, 1 Peter 1:17-25) 3. Jesus the "living stone," "rejected by men," "chosen and precious" in God's eyes a. John 1:9-11, Matthew 16:16-19 b. This idea fleshed out in later verses (vv. 6-7) 4. Peter, of all people, understood Jesus as the Rock! 5. He then applies this idea of living stones to believers-- Christians as Temple a. Christians as living stones, built up into spiritual house (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, 6:19-20, Ephesians 2:19-21) b. Temple imagery familiar to both Jews and Gentiles c. Temples as houses for deity, place to offer sacrifices, obtain favor (cf. Leviticus, 1 Kings 8) d. Peter continues with believers as holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices (cf. Romans 12:1) e. These sacrifices are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ! C. The Cornerstone (1 Peter 2:6-8) 1. Peter continues by expanding on his statements, beginning with the nature of Jesus 2. Begins by citing Isaiah 28:16 (LXX) as reference to Jesus a. Cornerstone in Zion, those believing in Him not put to shame b. He quotes this to show that there is honor for those who believe in Jesus 3. He then turns to the unbelievers who rejected Jesus a. Regarding them he cites Psalm 118:22-23-- the stone the builders rejected God makes the cornerstone b. Jesus quotes this verse regarding Himself in Matthew 21:42/Mark 12:10/Luke 20:17 c. Peter previously cited this language when preaching in Acts 4:11 d. He then quotes two sections from Isaiah 8:14 in regards to Jesus: a "stone of stumbling" and "rock of offense" e. Christ crucified as stumbling-block for Jews (1 Corinthians 1:21-25) f. They stumble by their disobedience, which they were "destined" to do g. Unlikely a statement of personal "election to condemnation," more likely based in prophecy-- God predicted it would take place, thus, it would take place 4. All of these things, therefore, foretold in prophecy: Jesus as cornerstone, source of hope for those who trust in Him, stumbling-block for those who disobey and reject Him D. The People of God (1 Peter 2:9-10) 1. Peter then returns to describe those who have come to God 2. He does so through a series of quotations from the Old Testament 3. A chosen race-- Isaiah 43:20 (LXX) 4. A royal priesthood, a holy nation-- Exodus 19:6, 23:22 (LXX) 5. A people for His own possession-- Deuteronomy 7:6 6. All of these were titles for the Israelites, now given to Christians 7. The reason for this: to proclaim excellencies of God who called you out of darkness to light (cf. John 1:5, 9-13, 1 John 1:5-10) 8. Peter then applies Hosea 1:9-10, 2:23 to Christians-- once not a people, now God's people; once without mercy, now receiving mercy a. Hard to imagine how one could say this about the Jews b. They were certainly God's people-- described as such (cf. Romans 11) c. Clear reference, therefore, to the Gentiles d. Ephesians 2:11-18 9. Peter demonstrates, therefore, that Christians are the spiritual Israel, representing the spiritual Temple! III. Applications A. The Spiritual House 1. Peter would understand the idea of Jesus as the living stone-- the "Rock" upon which the church would be founded in Matthew 16:16-19! 2. As with Paul, so Peter: image of Christians as comprising a spiritual house (cf. Ephesians 2:19-21) 3. Christians, therefore, work together and exist together to be something greater than each individual, as also seen in Romans 12:3-8, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 4. Without stones, you cannot have a house-- importance of individuals 5. Yet one stone cannot make a house-- importance of collective B. The Priesthood and Sacrifices 1. In discussions with certain denominationalists, idea of all Christians as priests in 1 Peter 2:5 emphasized 2. Yet, in context, Christians are just as much "living stones" and "sacrifices" as "priests" (v. 5) 3. How can the Christian be the building as well as the minister as well as the offering? 4. This passage an indication, along with Romans 12:1, 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, 6:19-20, Ephesians 2:19-21, and Hebrews 13:15, that the Israelite Temple and its rituals now seen in individual believers and the church 5. Israelite Temple and rituals: God's Presence in Temple, sacrifices of animals offered for sin, thanksgiving, etc.; offerings of animals, libations, incense accomplished by priests ministering for the people before God-- center of religion 6. Today, God dwells with believers, not in a building (John 4:24, Romans 8:11) 7. Thus, individual believers and the church as the "holy place" 8. The work of Christians as believers thus the "sacrifice" 9. Since we are practicing it, we are the ministers, thus "priests" 10. Therefore, we must emphasize how believers, individually and communally, represent the Body of Christ and the Temple of God, "religious functions" no longer limited to few selected by lineage 11. This is Peter's emphasis-- that which was vested in the Jewish Temple and in the priesthood now vested in believers! C. God's Holy Nation 1. Many times the aspects of 1 Peter 2:9 are individually parsed 2. That can be profitable, but Peter is trying to make a strong point with the whole presentation 3. Much made of Christians as "royal priesthood"-- yet originally cited in Exodus 19:6, 23:22 LXX to refer to God's intention for all of Israel-- that every Israelite would minister to God their King 4. Thus, God is accomplishing now with Christians some things He did not accomplish with Israel! 5. Regardless, the whole list of descriptions, for generations, referred only to Israel-- the Israelites were the chosen race, the holy nation, the people of God's own possession 6. Yet now, on account of prophecy, Peter connects them to believers in Jesus Christ-- any and all of them! 7. He also applies promises God made to Israel through Hosea to believers now in Christ-- those who did not receive mercy did receive mercy, and those who were not God's people are now God's people 8. Therefore, Christians are the spiritual Israel, and their lives and conduct should reflect their new status! 9. We must now proclaim the excellencies of God who has brought us from darkness to light 10. That means we must walk in the light, know and do the commandments, and walk as Jesus walked (1 John 1:5-2:6) D. Peter's grand point is that whereas the old covenant featured a nation chosen by lineage with a Temple and offerings, the new covenant features a nation chosen through grace and faith and obedience with a spiritual house made up of believers serving God and doing His will on earth! E. Are our offerings acceptable to God through Christ? Do we proclaim God's excellencies through our words and deeds? IV. Conclusion A. Thus we see 1 Peter 2:4-10 1. Jesus as cornerstone, rejected by many, source of honor and hope for those who trust in Him 2. Christians as spiritual Israel, God's new chosen people 3. Israelite Temple and ritual now spiritual, internalized in Christian believers, Church B. Let us offer pleasing sacrifices to God and proclaim His excellencies through our words and deeds! C. Invitation/songbook Ethan R. Longhenry / disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Evangelist, church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio [norwalkchurch.org] Homepage: deusvitae.com AIM: Deus Vitae / ICQ: 28317056 Y! IM: discipuliiesus Spiritual Manna A biweekly devotional for your life. http://www.deusvitae.com/faith/manna From disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Tue Dec 15 21:30:48 2009 From: disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com (Ethan R. Longhenry) Date: Tue, 15 Dec 2009 22:30:48 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] Clarification Regarding "1 Peter 2:4-10: The Spiritual House" In-Reply-To: <31525738.1260931489350.JavaMail.root@elwamui-norfolk.atl.sa.earthlink.net> References: <31525738.1260931489350.JavaMail.root@elwamui-norfolk.atl.sa.earthlink.net> Message-ID: Ethan to Bible Matters, Greetings. I recently posted a lesson I intend to preach regarding 1 Peter 2:4-10, and James Shewmaker responded to it with the following: As brother Longhenry accurately shows in this outline, there is only one house of God and it is comprised of individuals. Those who try to teach that each local church is a house of God fail to grasp the point that Peter makes in this text. It is this ONE house of God which is the pillar and ground of the truth and not local assemblies. ELDV: I do not agree with these statements. My intention in the lesson was to interpret 1 Peter 2:4-10 and to do so within its context. In so doing I was by no means attempting to assert that there is but "one house of God". As the lesson even indicates, the image of individual Christian as Temple is there as much as the church as Temple (cf. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20). In my view, the local assemblies, ideally, are to be the manifestation of the living universal assembly in their community. Yet, just as we are supposed to be conformed to the image of Christ and yet are imperfectly so because of our failings (cf. Romans 8:29, 1 John 1:8), so the local assembly is imperfectly the reflection of the universal based in its failings. Nevertheless, all passages relating to "the church" are worked out functionally within the local assemblies-- 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 is a great example of this. There's probably good reason why the NT text never makes an explicit distinction in terms between the "local" and the "universal," and we should respect that. I would affirm, not deny, that local assemblies of God's people can be seen as "houses of God," and even the context of 1 Timothy 3:15 indicates that local congregations can and should be the pillar and ground of the truth. Thanks. ELDV Ethan R. Longhenry / disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Evangelist, church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio [norwalkchurch.org] Homepage: deusvitae.com AIM: Deus Vitae / ICQ: 28317056 Y! IM: discipuliiesus Spiritual Manna A biweekly devotional for your life. http://www.deusvitae.com/faith/manna From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Wed Dec 16 04:15:32 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Wed, 16 Dec 2009 05:15:32 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) I WILL NOT DENY THEE Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Wednesday morning to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is a poem from my files: I WILL NOT DENY THEE "I will not deny Thee" That' what Peter said. And the words of this great man of God Keep ringing in my head. Later on that selfsame night, Peter did that very thing. "I do not know the man!" Through the ages those words still ring. All was not lost for Peter On that fateful night, For when the Lord turned and looked at him, Peter wept with all his might. "I will not deny Thee" It repeats inside my head. For though I have nto said the words, I've done the deed instead. Jesus left me an example, In His steps I am to tread. But I have not always done that, Even in the things I've said. "I will not deny Thee!" Oh, no, not me. But I have done that very thing With what I've allowed my eyes to see. "Love your enemies," Seek their greatest good, I have not always done that, Even when I could. "Father, forgive them" >From the cross our Lord did say, But what of me, I ask myself -- Have I always thought that way? "I will not deny Thee." To keep those words I do intend. But there are days the cock crows for me, And I know I've failed again. You said to clothe the naked, And to feed the hungry too. At times I've turned my back on those in need, And You said I did it unto You. "I will not deny Thee." Oh, Lord, help me to those words to cling! And when I fail to do so, Help me my contrite heart to bring I love You, this I know, And in my heart I'll strive to be One who lives, as well as says, "I will not deny Thee." ------ Greg Litmer in That You May Grow Thereby. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091216/e0294b39/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Wed Dec 16 04:15:46 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Wed, 16 Dec 2009 05:15:46 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) THE CHURCH THAT JESUS BUILT (4) Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is the fourth and final installment on this particulare study. Use to the glory of God. THE CHURCH THAT JESUS BUILT (4) It Is Composed Of Those Saved By The Lord: -- The member- ship of "the church that Jesus built" is determined by Him, not by man. He built His church, He determines who shall be mem- bers of it. After His resurrection, He told the apostles to "Go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believes and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believes not shall be condemned" (Mk. 16:15,16). When the apostles preached the gospel in Jerusalem, that was their message: "God made Him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom ye have crucified. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and the rest of the apostles, Brethren, what shall we do? And Peter said unto them, Repent ye, and be baptized everyone of you, in the name of Jesus Christ unto the remission of your sins...They then that received his word were baptized: and there were added unto them in that day about three thousand souls...And the Lord added to the church daily such as were being saved" (Acts 2:36-47). That is how people became members of the church of Christ 2000 years ago. That is how they must become members of His church today. The same Lord that saves people, add those sav- ed people to His church (Acts 2:47). That is the reason Paul wrote in Eph. 5:23, "He is the Head of the church, being Himself the Savior of the body." It Exists In Your Community Today: -- You do not have to be in a denomination. You can and must become a Christian just like those folks were 2000 years ago, without ever being a member of anything except "the church that Jesus built." The "seed of the kingdom is the Word of God" (Lk. 8:11), and "the Word of the Lord abideth forever, and this is the Word of the Gospel that was preached to you" (1 Pet. 1:23-25). The Gospel is unchanged, it still reveals "the church that Jesus built." And, thus, tht church is also unchanged today from what it was in the first century. Wouldn't you like to be a member of that church? You can. In your community is a group of people who refuse to wear hum- an names or to be directed by human teaching and involved in human organizations. These are folk who have done just what we have read in the Scriptures above, and the Lord has added them to His church. If you will obey, from the heart, that same teaching, taught in the first century by the Lord and His apostles, He will add you to His church. The church that Jesus built and is among us today. This study is sent to you with the prayer that you will "examine the Scriptures, and see whethr these things are so" (Acts 17:11). We pray that you will want to be a member of that church "that Jesus built." And it is with that prayer we close this study with the words of Rom. 16:16, "The churches of Christ salute you." ----- Clem Thurman in Gospel Minutes, Vol. 58, No. 46, Nov. 13, 2009. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091216/a096b43f/attachment-0001.html From chris.gautney at gmail.com Wed Dec 16 10:46:01 2009 From: chris.gautney at gmail.com (Chris Gautney) Date: Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:46:01 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] The Value of Christian Worship Message-ID: <9fd765230912160846x10c6a78at979201ad4383b243@mail.gmail.com> THE VALUE OF CHRISTIAN WORSHIP Introduction: When we worship God, we try to prepare ourselves to be worthy to worship Him. Let us notice some things about Christian worship. Discussion: Christian worship involves several things: I. OBJECT 1. Heb. 13:8; Matt. 4:10; Jn. 4:24 II. DAY 1. Should worship everyday, but the first day of the week is special 2. Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:2; Heb 10:25; Pas. 118:24 III. ATTITUDE 1. Spirit of awe, reverence, & adoration - Jn. 4:24 IV. WAY 1. In truth - Jn. 2:24; 17:17 V. MEDIATOR 1. 1 Tim. 2:5; Jn. 14:6 VI. AVENUES OF WORSHIP 1. They are not so much ?items? as they are ?avenues of worship? 2. Sing, pray, contribute, Lord?s Supper, preaching Now notice the VALUE of Christian worship. I. MOLDS OUR LIVES 1. We become like that which we worship ? Psa. 115:1-9 2. Idols have forms, etc., but no power and the worshiper becomes like them. 3. They who worship God elevates themselves ? Psa. 33:12; Prov. 14:34 II. TRANSFORMS OUR THINKING 1. Christian worship brings to us a fuller realization of the worth, prominence, & preeminence of the spiritual values of life. 2. Illus: The world is like a giant show-case in which someone has switched price tags. Cheap things are high, etc. 3. Worship helps to keep a true sense of values ? Matt. 6:33; Phil. 4:8 III. SENSITIZES US TO NEEDS OF OUR FELLOW MAN 1. Jas. 2:14-17; 1 Jn. 4:19-20; 3:17 2. Worship looks upward to God ? Matt. 4:10 3. It looks inward toward self 4. Looks outward toward our fellow man IV. PROVIDES DIRECTION 1. It helps us to achieve a life of purpose & to make all choices in harmony with that right purpose 2. Phil 3:13,14; Psa. 95:6,7 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091216/3aa873bb/attachment-0001.html From frozen1 at mtaonline.net Wed Dec 16 12:00:50 2009 From: frozen1 at mtaonline.net (Philip Douthitt) Date: Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:00:50 -0800 Subject: [Biblemat] Deployed Christian Soldiers Message-ID: <20091216100050.47D2FCD8@resin18.mta.everyone.net> Hi Folks, Again, this year there are a number of Christians that are deployed to various locations through out the world. For the past couple of years I have been collecting the names and addresses of these folks and making them available to others that would like to send a card, gifts, words of encouragement, etc. I have already been asked by several for a current list. I have been neglectful in keeping my list current. Please send me their address and email if available. Also, if you are aware of other Christians holding worship services in these locales please share... In Him, Phil Douthitt Eagle River Alaska frozen1 at mtaonline.net From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Thu Dec 17 02:47:41 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Thu, 17 Dec 2009 03:47:41 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) JUST DO IT! Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Thursday morn- ing to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an article from my files: JUST DO IT! Do you remember that slogan from the Nike commercials a few years back? It was a most effective advertising campaign, because in everyday conversation folks began to urge others to "Just do it!" when there was some task that needed to be accom- plished. It may not have been quite as memorable as "Where's the beef?" but it got the job done. (Quite a few of the younger people may not remember, "Where's the beef?" But believe me, it was big for a time!). The phrase "Just do it!" seems to fit the books of 1,2,3 John. In those three letters John writes a great deal about love. As a matter of fact, in 1 Jno. 4:7,8 he wrote, "Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God, and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love." Love is vital and foundamental. To show just how important it is, let's consider the words of Paul in 1 Cor. 13:1-3 when he was teaching the Corinthians "a more excellent way." He wrote, "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not love, I am become as a sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not love, it profits me noth- ing." However, a lot of Christians have an idea of love that my be consistent with the world's view, but has very little to do with the biblical view of love. A few years back there were some little car- toons that would say, "Love it..." and follow that with something like "a soft puppy," or "a hand to hold," and other such things. They were cute and generally did give a warm feeling. But such feelings are not all that love is about, certainly not in the biblical sense. As a matter of fact, such warm and fuzzy feelings are not even necessarily considered in the biblical approach to love. This now brings us back to 1,2,3 John and the saying, "Just do it!" That expresses the idea behind biblical love a great deal more accurately than some feel-good emotion or soft pedal approach. In John's letters, lvoe is inseparably attached to obed- ience -- to the point that John tells us if we say we have love, to God or our fellow man, then "Just do it!" Let me show you what I mean. In 1 Jno. 2:3-5 we read, "And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth His Word, in him veri- ly is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in Him." In other words, "Just do it!" ------ Greg Litmer in That You May Grow Thereby. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091217/4f2a60f9/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Thu Dec 17 02:47:52 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Thu, 17 Dec 2009 03:47:52 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) THE PERCEPTION IS Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is a study from my files. Use to the glory of God. THE PERCEPTION IS "A good name is better than precious ointment" (Eccl. 7:1). "Only let not your good be evil spoken of" (Rom. 14:16). Timothy was "well reported of by the brethren" (Acts 16:2). Surely, we would rather be held in respect than despised. But sometimes perceptions are unjust. Ahab's perception of Elijah was that he was the one who "troubleth Israel" (1 Kgs. 18: 17). It was really the other way around. Jesus was perceived by the Jewish rulers as a "blasphem- er" who had to be stopped at all cost. For that reason they "took counsel together to put Him to death"(Jno. 11:53). Yet Pet- er said that He "left us an example that we should walk in His steps; Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth" (1 Pet. 2:21,22). Paul said, "But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness"(1 Cor. 1:23). The perception of both unbelieving Jews and Greeks was wrong. The truth? "But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ is the power of God, and the wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God -- is stronger than men" (Vs. 25). Unbelieving Jews created a false impression about Paul and his companions at Thessalonica. They dragged "certain breth- ren unto the rulers of the city, crying, 'these that have turned the world upside down are come hither also'" (Acts 17:6). The per- ception spread. "And they troubled the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things" (vs. 8). But it was all based on false information. But still, that was the perception. Image Problems: -- Let's face it, Jesus, the apostles and the early church suffered from an image problem. I guess Demas succumbed to it for he "forsook...having loved this present world" (2 Tim. 4:10). The church of our Lord has often suffered from an image problem. " That's the little bunch who thinks they are the only ones who are right." "Oh, they are the ones who don't believe in music in the church." The perception of many younger people now is that organized religion is hypocritical, repressive, and out of touch with life in the real world. On top of that they are judged to be too judgmental and bigoted. Solving The Image Problem: -- I don't know that we always can solve it. We cannot compromise the truth because some who stand for it have been slandered and false perceptions have been created. All of us need to keep on preaching what we know to be the truth, doing what we know to be right, and living uprightly before God and the world, whether or not the percept- ions are changed. In the final analysis, does it really matter what people think of us? No, it does not. What matters is what God thinks about us. If my action is right before God, then whatever contrary perceptions may prevail are of no importance. When we begin to sample perceptions, brotherhood or otherwise, and decide our actions and associations accordingly, then we have sold out our principles for the pottage of human approval and opinion. Is there a price to pay sometimes for acting contrary to the "perception which is out there?" Absolutely. You may have a meeting or two canceled without any explanation. That happened to me twice this year. One was cancelled with no other explanation than "for the health of the church." I don't know if that meant the church was all too sick to attend a meet- ing or they thought my preaching would make them all sick. Another was cancelled with the explanation "due to circumstan- ces." When I inquired what those "circumstances" were, I received no answer. Do churches have the same right to cancel meetings as to schedule them? Of course they do. But there is such thing as honorable treatment wheich even people n the world recognize in the realm of business dealings. Am I going to cut off association with brethren I know to be honorable and who are engaged in activities which are just and right because of some "perception out there"? No sir, I am not. Others may choose whatever course they desire, but it appears to this old country boy that principle and perception are not always on the same page. The measure of a man's character and caliber may well be decided by which one he chooses. "Buy he truth and sell it not" (Prov. 23:23). ---- Connie Adams in Truth Magazine, Vol. 52, No. 10, December 2008. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091217/6715142b/attachment-0001.html From shewemail at earthlink.net Thu Dec 17 11:37:33 2009 From: shewemail at earthlink.net (shewemail at earthlink.net) Date: Thu, 17 Dec 2009 12:37:33 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] S) We Have Come To Mt. Zion Message-ID: <4B2A6C5D.4070303@earthlink.net> We Have Come To Mount Zion (Written by James Shewmaker) The Israelites received their covenant at Mt. Sinai. But, we have received our covenant at Mt. Zion. Unlike Mt. Sinai, Mt. Zion is not a literal mountain. There is a literal Mt. Zion but it is not the Mt. Zion of our discussion. The Mt. Zion we are discussing is not able to be touched. We know that the Israelites were not supposed to touch Mt. Sinai, but one could touch it and die. Hebrews 12:18-24) Mt. Sinai was out in the desert. We are not in the desert but in the land of salvation. Salvation as nourishing as milk and as sweet as honey; where the blessings of God are flowing out continuously to us. But, we have not conquered all the territory yet. We are in the land which flows with milk and honey but we are still in the process of receiving the kingdom of Jesus. Hebrews 12:28 We are marching in Zion. Throughout my childhood I heard the days before salvation compared to the captivity of Egypt and Heaven compared to the land of Canaan and we were somehow still in the desert "marching to Zion" or "camping toward Canaan's land." This is not the picture that I see in Scripture. Isaiah 62:1-5,11,12 Hephzibah means "my delight is in her" and the scripture says "For Jehovah delights in you" and Beulah means married or bride and the promise is that God would be married to His people. The picture in Scripture shows the days before Jesus as the days of desolation. Hosea 1:6-10 Hosea 2:23 This is fulfilled in the church. I Peter 2:10 God rejected the idolaters of Israel as a man rejects a wife who has gone after harlotry; but, the church is the faithful and pure bride of Christ. Ephesians 5:27 When Israel settled into the land of Canaan, her Messiah's coming was still an event of the future, in just such a way while the war against Satan continues, the Messiah's second coming is yet to be. The main difference being that His return will be the end of the war rather than the church having a time of peace after successfully driving the Hittite out of the land. We are marching in Zion. The picture of spiritual Zion is that of a walled city upon a mountain. The picture of a mountain represents the dominion of King Jesus. The mountain is growing in the picture because the spread of the gospel yields the increase of the Kingdom. ( Daniel 2:34,35,44,45 The walled city is referred to in Hebrews 12 as New Jerusalem. New Jerusalem is a city of refuge. In the old testament when a person had accidentally caused the death of another, he could flee for refuge to one of six cities which were set up for this purpose. There he was to abide until the death of the High Priest. Although our High Priest has died once, it was before New Jerusalem was begun. The life which He leads now is an endless life. We are to remain within the walls of the city of refuge, because we have violated the law of God in the past and our adversary is waiting outside the walls to recapture us, if we venture out. New Jerusalem is the fulfillment of Jesus' promise that all those who labored under the heavy burden of the guilt of sin could come to Him for rest. Those in the city of Jerusalem wear the light and easy yoke of Jesus. This means that they must learn to work together as true yokefellows Phil. 4:1-3 The work of those who live in New Jerusalem is the fight against Satan for the souls of the lost. The Kingdom of Christ is increased by the acceptance of the dominion of Jesus by an Individual. But each Individual who accepts Jesus' dominion is a loss of territory on the part of Satan. Therefore he fights against the city of New Jerusalem and tries to sap the walls of the city. We are marching because we are at war. Many people tire of constant conflict and seek some sort of peace. We must be aware that there is no peace for those who are citizens of New Jerusalem until Christ returns to receive us unto Himself. New Jerusalem is made up of living stones. We are always on the front-line because we along with Jesus the chief cornerstone are the defenses of New Jerusalem. But we are held in place by the power of God's word. (Hebrews 1:3; Psalms 145:14-20) We could not stand up against Satan on our own any more than a wall made up of bricks without any mortar could withstand a massive assault. But, we can do all things through the strength which Christ supplies. From chris.gautney at gmail.com Thu Dec 17 13:51:51 2009 From: chris.gautney at gmail.com (Chris Gautney) Date: Thu, 17 Dec 2009 13:51:51 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] Leaven Message-ID: <9fd765230912171151g54301a80u58eb5639d9ee1992@mail.gmail.com> LEAVEN ? 1 Cor. 5:6-8 I. RITUALISM ? The leaven of the Pharisees ? Matt. 15:8,9 1. Formality 2. Tradition 3. Self-righteousness 4. Hypocrisy II. RATIONALISM ? The leaven of the Sadducees ? Acts 23:8 1. No miracle 2. No resurrection 3. No angels 4. No spirit III. LEGALISM ? The leave of the Galatians ? Gal. 5:7-9 1. Frustrates the grace of God 2. Negates the work of Christ 3. Enslaves the believer IV. WORLDLINESS - The leaven of Herod ? Mk. 8:15 1. Seen in his marriage 2. Seen in his manner of birthday observance 3. Friendly with the world (Pilate) in treatment and rejection of Jesus ? Lk. 23:12 V. CARNALITY ? The leaven of the Corinthians ? 1 Cor. 5:2,8; 3:1-3 1. Vain glory ? ?puffed up? 2. Carnal lusts ? malice & wickedness G.A. ? June 24, 1948 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091217/c3cd483f/attachment.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Fri Dec 18 04:09:32 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Fri, 18 Dec 2009 05:09:32 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Friday morning to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here are a coup- le of questions and answers from my files: QUESTION: -- What About An Elder And His Children? ANSWER: -- Certainly, one of the characteristics of a shepherd of God's flock, the church of the Lord, is that he should have children. We are told by Paul: "He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he be able to take care of the church of God?"). (1 Tim. 3:4,5). When Paul writes to Titus, he adds another aspect to this. He says: "If any man is above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe, not accused of dissipation or rebellion" (Titus 1:6). So, an elder is to have a plurality of children that believe, that has faith. As to whether this man can serve or not, only the church of which he is a member knows that. In terms of his children, he can serve. He has children and he has believing children child- ren. You can see his family and get a sense of how he interacts with others, how he builds faith in others and so on. Watch his family, you will get some sense of hsi people skills. Still, I would caution you that he is not to be a relatively new convert to Christianity. Paul cautions about this: "And not a new convert, so that he will not become deceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil" (1 Tim. 3:6). Paul tells us that an elder should have some time served in the kingdom before taking on the role of an elder. I think you could apply this to a man who is new to the community as well. He might have the qualities an elder requires, but he might need some time to get to know people and for the sheep to get to know him. But, all of that is a judgment call that the church must make. A man must prove himself within the congregation of which he is a member, his responsibilities are to be toward the congregation. But, also exemplified before those that are without. ---- Adapted from a question and answer by David Thurman, in Gospel Minut- es, Vol. 58, No. 38, Sept. 18, 2009. **************************************************************************** ***** QUESTION: Is The Church Of Christ Organized In Any Way? -- ANSWER: -- Yes, The Church Of Christ Is organized Into Local Congregations Of The Church. Christ built His church, (Matt. 16:18) He died for it (Acts 20:28) He gives the instr- uctions as to its organization and mission (Matt. 28:18-20) and He is the Savior of the body, the church, and adds those that are saved by obeying the first principles of the oracles of God to it (Acts 2:47). And if the Lord didn't do some organizing, then Mr. Webster failed to define what the word "organize" means. The church of Christ is the Kingdom of Christ and is organized in local members meeting together to carry out the required miss- ion of the collective body (Matt. 16:18; Col. 1:13-18) and Christ is the King of His Kingdom (Jno. 18:36,37). The headquarters of this kingdom, church,is found in heaven. "For our citizenship is in heaven, whence also we wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ" (Phil. 3:20). And the membership roll of the church, the kingdom of Christ, is also found in heaven "The general assemb- ly and church of the Firstborn who are enrolled in heaven" (Heb. 12:23). Christ is the Head and Christians are the members. Yes, the church of Christ is organized, by Jesus Christ Himself, throughe the teaching of the Holy Spirit found in the New Testa- ment. Maybe the querist has reference to some kind of "earthly organization." But the only organization of the church on the earth is the local congregation. These "churches of Christ" (Rom. 16:16) are ruled by qualified elders in every local congre- gation. (Acts 14:23; 1 Tim. 5:17) who "watch in behalf of your souls" (Heb. 13:17). And these local churches of Christ are the only earthly organizations of members that make up a local con- gregation of the Lord's people. We have no other earthly head- quarters at all. Christ is in heaven and He is now, and has always been recognized by His Father as the Head of His church. Some seem to feel that "organization" means the church is a denomination. But the only alternative to organization is dis- organization. The Lord Who built His church, and saves it, is also the organizer of that church. Following the Words of Jesus Christ, obeying His Will, doing what He commands, will mean having the right faith, the right worship and the right oraganizat- ion. This is the church of Christ -- as revealed in the Word of God, the New Testament. The church of Christ is not organized in a universal sense. It is only organized in a local congregation- al sense, and is autonomous, self-governing in harmony with the teaching of the Holy Spirit, through the written Word. --------- Adapted from a question and answer by Clem Thurman as found in Gospel Minutes, Vol. 58, No. 38, Sept. 18, 2009. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091218/1e202ef8/attachment-0001.html From j5827sasser at wmconnect.com Fri Dec 18 04:50:09 2009 From: j5827sasser at wmconnect.com (j5827sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Fri, 18 Dec 2009 05:50:09 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) GOD IS SPEAKING TO YOU (1) Message-ID: <1238.47be7796.385cb861@wmconnect.com> Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is the first installment of this particular study. Use to the glory of God. GOD IS SPEAKING TO YOU (1) One person claims that God revealed to her in a dream what she was to do with her life. A man says that God spoke to him, openly, telling him what he was to do religiously. Yet another sees signs in the clouds telling what God wants him to do. Anot- her says that God speaks to him "in a still, small voice." Still another man claims that God speaks directly to the heart of each individual to reveal God's Will to him. Many modern day religions have begun because some relig- ious leader claims God has spoken to him and has revealed what he and others are to do to please God. So, which one if right? Or, are any of them right? If God speaks to man, how does He do it? Let's find out, as we look in His Word. Solomon, inspired of God, wrote about his search for the meaning of life. After looking at all of his riches, his accomplish- ments, entertainment he had, and all his possessions, Solomon wrote: "So I hated life, because the work that is wrought under the sun was grievous unto me; for all is vanity and a striving after wind" (Eccl. 2:17). Again, he wrote: "I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and a striving after wind" (Eccl. 1:14). In other words, nothing that Solomon did counted for anything "under the sun" (in this life). But when he came to the last chapter of that book, Solomon wrote: "Remember now; thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them...Let us hear the con- clusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His command- ments for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil" (Eccl. 12:1, 13,14). There is the con- clusion of the matter, the result of Solomon's search for the meaning of life. The only thing in life that really matters is your relationship with God. Everything else will perish -- your wealth, your works, your accomplishments, etc. To "fear God and keep His comm- andments is the whole duty of man." What a shame to live your life and miss the most important reason for living! But HOW does God reveal His Will to you in this 21st century Although some claim that God has always spoken in the same way to man, the Word of God shows that changes have been made in the way God has delivered His Will to us. With Adam and Moses (and possibly others), God spoke "mouth to mouth" (Gen. 3:9; Num. 12:8). In other words, God spoke directly to them. With the prophets of old, God oftern spoke in visions and in other ways (Isa. 1:1). But the Word of God declares: "God, having of old time spoken unto the fathers in the prophets by divers portions and in divers manners, hath at the end of these days spoken unto us in His Son, Whom, He appointed heir of all things, through whom also he made the worlds' (Heb. 1:1,2). (More will be posted on this subject tomorrow, the Lord willing, JWS). From chris.gautney at gmail.com Fri Dec 18 09:45:35 2009 From: chris.gautney at gmail.com (Chris Gautney) Date: Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:45:35 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] Breaking the Alabaster Box Message-ID: <9fd765230912180745m54519678iebffbb53b5f00e71@mail.gmail.com> *BREAKING THE ALABASTER BOX ? Matt. 26:6-13; Mk. 14:3-9; Jn. 12:1-8* * * I. Explanation of the Text 1. Jesus in Bethany at the home of Simon the leper 2. Mary, Lazarus?s sister, then anoints the body of Jesus 3. Judas, being covetous, condemns this ?extravagance? II. Purpose of the Lesson 1. Being part of the gospel, her deed is to be remembered 2. In observing the love that prompted this act, we will be stirred within to ?break our own Alabaster Boxes? III. The Type of Mary?s Love 1. Uncalculating a. The cost was lost in love for Jesus b. He spared nothing for us ? 2 Cor. 8:9 2. Active & Abounding a. ?Actions speak louder than words? b. By their fruits your shall know them 3. Instantaneous a. She did what she could, when she could b. Opportunities won?t linger 4. Amazing a. She did all she could, through seemingly worthless b. Our wealth is determined by ability & opportunity 5. Immortal a. An example that will live on IV. An application of this lesion 1. Each of us has a box of ointment ? a loving deed 2. Spiritually, Christ can be touched ? Matt. 25:35-46 a. Through his ?body? b. Treatment of family & friends 3. Man?s evaluation of deeds is not determining factor. Many only seek great deeds. V. Conclusion 1. Have you opened your Alabaster Box? *Other Lessons...* 1. Mary did what she could - Lord does not expect the impossible - It represented sacrifice. It was an expensive gift, but doesn?t the Lord deserve our best? 2. She gave her Lord they very best. Would Christ commend our gifts? 3. It was beautiful in its gift. - Never give for worldly honor or fame - Was a free expression of genuine love 4. She gave her gift while she had opportunity. 5. We can do love deeds - In the home, we can do deeds of love for each other. We should make time - In the church ? encourage the each other, the preacher elders, etc - Don?t wait till the person is dead. Do a loving deed now 6. Was generous. Perhaps her most costly possession. 7. Open. It was done in the presence of others. Some deeds are private. Joseph & Nicodemus ? Lk. 7:30 8. False estimate of value- ?waste? - Not a waste to improve the meeting house, to buy tracts, or other evangelistic material - It would be a waste to buy expensive clothing, to spend money on unnecessary expenses for the meeting house 9. Hypocritical benevolence ? ?Much ? given to poor? - The claims of the poor are pleaded as an excuse for not contributing money for other Scriptural purposes 10. Her devotion was right. Right in extent. Capacity is the measure of obligation. 11. The monument of Mary?s deed is immortal. Monuments of marble decay. Her monument is as beautiful now as it was then. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091218/e1fb674c/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Sat Dec 19 04:51:00 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Sat, 19 Dec 2009 05:51:00 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) GOD HAS SPOKEN Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Saturday morn- ing to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an article from my files: GOD HAS SPOKEN It is time for a reality check. God has spoken about the birth of Jesus Christ, His Son, which was and essential part of His himan existence. His birth was prophetically announced (Isa. 7: 14; 9:6) as well as recorded in Bible history (Matt. 1:18-25; Lk. 2: 1-20). Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea (not in Jerusalem as Joseph Smith claimed). The prophet Micah had foretold the place hundreds of years before (Mic. 5:2). The virgin birth was prophesied, and clearly taught in the passages above, and in (Lk. 1:26-38). He came into the world to become King (Lk. 1:32, 33) and Savior (Matt. 1:21). He was born in a place that was used to house animals, and was laid in a manger because crow- ed conditions left no room for Joseph and Mary in the inn (Lk. 2: 7). The day of Jesus' birth is not known. God did not have it re- corded in the Bible. The month of Jesus' birth is not known. God did not have it recorded in the Bible. The exact year of Jesus' birth is uncertain, but is associated with a taxation impos- ed by the Roman Caesar Augustus while Quirinius was govern- ing Syria (Lk. 2:1-7). The lack of specifics here is significant. If God had wanted the birthday of Jesus to be celebrated as a holy day, He would have said so, and would have made it possible by establishing a time and directions for its observance. Our drawing near to God through Jesus Christ is not left to the whims and traditions of men. The whole matter of a season- al celebration of the Birth of Christ is of human, not divine, origin It is not surprising that the religious world which makes its own rules of religious faith and practice should have such a celebrat- ion, along with celebrating Jewish nad Muslim holy days. When people who profess to be simply New Testament Christians be- gin to follow such religious practices and to urge those who hear them to "remember the reason for the season", establish- ing December 25th as a holy day, they depart from the faith of the New Testament and identify themselves with the world rath- er than with Christ. Let us rejoice always in our Savior's birth, His life, and His sacrificial death by which we can be redeemed, and truly honor Him as our King. -------- Gilbert Alexander. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091219/b2e19fb6/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Sat Dec 19 04:51:11 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Sat, 19 Dec 2009 05:51:11 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) GOD IS SPEAKING TO YOU (2) Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is the second installment of this particular study. Use to the glory of God. GOD HAS SPOKEN TO YOU (2) God Speaks Through Jesus Christ, His Son, Today: -- Jesus, during His ministry on earth, also confirmed that God spoke to us through Him: "He that rejecteth Me, and receiveth not My sayings, hath one that judgeth him: the Word that I spoke, the same shall judge him in the last day. For I spoke not from Myself but from the Father that sent Me, He hath given Me a command- ment, what I should say,and what I should speak" (Jno. 12:48, 49). What Jesus taught during His ministry on earth was exactly what the Father authorized Him to teach. As Heb. 1 declares, God speaks to us today through Christ. Jesus, meeting with the apostles after His death and resurrection, told them: "All authori- ty hath been given unto Me in heaven and on earth...Go ye, there- fore, and make disciples of all nations, teaching them all things that I have commanded your" (Matt. 28:18,19). Jesus knew that He was not going to stay on earth to cont- nue to teach, so He chose twelve of His disciples to be His apost- les, His messengers, and to speak through them. Just as Jesus is the spokesman for God, so these apostles were to be the spokesmen for Jesus Christ. That their message might be corr- ect, infallibly accurate, He promised to send unto them the Holy Spirit to bring to their remembrance all that He had taught them and to guide them into all the truth. "I will pray to the Father, and He shall give you another Com- forter, that He may be with you for ever, even the Spirit of truth: whom the world cannot receive; for it beholdeth Him not, neith- er knoweth Him: ye know Him; for He abideth with you, and shall be in you...These things have I spoken unto you, while yet abiding with you. But the Comforter, even the Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I have said unto you...And He, when He is come, will convict the world in respect of sin, and of righteousness, of of judgment...Howbeit when He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He shall guide you into all the truth: for He shall not speak from Himself; but what things so ever He shall hear, these shall He speak" (Jno. 14:16,17,25,26; 16:8,13). When, on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1), the Holy Spirit was given to the apostles as promised, they were "filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak...as the Spirit gave them utteran- ce" (Acts 2:4). Jesus had told the apostles earlier, "He that hear-eth you heareth Me; and he tht rejecteth you rejecteth Me; and he that rejecteth Me rejecteth Him that sent Me...For the Holy Spirit shall teach you in that very hour what ye ought to say" (Lk. 10:16; 12:12). The apostle Paul later wrote: "Which things we speak, not in words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Spirit teacheth" (1 Cor. 2:13). Christ was now speak- ing from God (Heb. 1:2) through the Holy Spirit by the mouth of the apostles (Acts 2:4). The Apostles Spoke The Word Of God: -- Knowing that the apostles would not always live here on earth to personally direct man's steps by the Spoken Word of God, our Lord insured our instructions by committing His Word to writing: the Scriptures. This writing the apostles did. And in their writing, just as in their speaking, they were guided by God: "All Scripture is inspired of God" (2 Tim. 3:16). John wrote of the miracles which Jesus did during His stay here on earth: "Many other signs therefore did Jesus in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book: but these are written, that ye may believe that Jesus isthe Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye may have life in His name" (Jno. 20:30,31). Notice that there was no promise that these miracles would be performed during your lifetime in order that you might believe. They are written that you might believe. That written Word that tells of the life of Jesus Christ also tells of His miracles which confirm that Word, and contains His commandments for us (Jno. 14:26). The apostle Paul said of the gospel which He and the other apostles preached and wrote: "I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God unto salvation" (Rom. 1:16). James encourages us, "Receive with meekness the implanted Word which is able to save your souls" (Jas. 1:21). And the apostle Peter writes: "His divine power hath granted unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that called us by His own glory and virtue" (2 Pet. 1:3). (More will be posted on this subject Monday, the Lord willing, JWS). -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091219/01001f35/attachment-0001.html From wswalker310 at juno.com Fri Dec 18 17:20:02 2009 From: wswalker310 at juno.com (Wayne S Walker) Date: Fri, 18 Dec 2009 17:20:02 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] hymn study, "When His Body Was Broken for Me" Message-ID: <20091219.083056.2668.4.wswalker310@juno.com> Wayne Walker here with another weekly hymn study. 12/19/09 ?WHEN HIS BODY WAS BROKEN FOR ME? ? This is My body which is broken for you ? (1 Cor. 11:24) INTRO.: A hymn which helps to remind us how that Jesus?s body was broken for us is ?When His Body Was Broken? (#314 in Sacred Selections for the Church). The text was written by Johnson Oatman Jr. (1856-1922). A prolific gospel hymn text author, he also provided words for ?Count Your Blessings,? ?Hand in Hand with Jesus,? ?Higher Ground,? ?I'll Be a Friend to Jesus,? ?Lift Him Up,? ?No, Not One,? ?Sweeter Than All,? ?The Last Mile of the Way,? and ?What Shall It Profit?? The tune for ?When His Body Was Broken for Me? was composed by Rufus Henry Cornelius (1872-1933). A native of Alabama, he lived in Ellis County, TX. For much of his life he worked in the music publishing business and compiled the songbook Harvest of Light, perhaps his first, in 1913. His most famous hymn, "O I Want To See Him," was first published in 1916 and was later owned by the Rodeheaver Co. In 1926 Cornelius edited another hymnbook Heart Melodies at Ft. Worth, TX. That same year he provided the melody for Oatman?s words. However, the earliest hymnbook in which I have been able to trace the song is Cornelius' Gospel Songs which was compiled by Cornelius and published by the R. H. Cornelius Company in 1927. That same year it also appeared in Home Gospel Songs No. 2 edited by John Wesley Dennis (1866-1947), who provided the tune for ?I?ll Be a Friend to Jesus,? and H. A. Gilbert and published by Tipton Orphans' Home of Tipton, OK, a benevolent institution associated with some churches of Christ. It also appeared in Cornelius?s Gospel Songs No. 2 of 1928, No. 3 of 1929, and No. 4 of 1933. Among hymnbooks published by members of the Lord?s church during the twentieth century for use in churches of Christ, ?When His Body Was Broken for Me? may currently be found in Sacred Selections. The song looks back to that time when Jesus suffered on the cross and what that should mean to us. I. Stanza 1 talks about what Jesus did ?Looking back through the years I can see my dear Lord, As they nailed Him that day to the tree; For the love that He bore me His life blood He poured, When His body was broken for me.? A. The purpose of the Lord?s supper is to help us look back through the years to see with our mind?s eyes the death of Christ: 1 Cor. 11:26 B. It reminds of how they nailed Him that day to the tree: 1 Pet. 2:24 C. In His death, He poured out His life blood for our redemption: Eph. 1:7 II. Stanza 2 talks about why He did what He did ?For my sins and transgressions the dear Savior died On the cross, died in great agony; Nails through hands and through feet and the spear through His side, When His body was broken for me.? A. Christ willingly suffered and died for our sins and transgressions: Isa. 53:5 B. Because it was on the cross that He died in great agony, the message of the cross is the message of salvation: 1 Cor. 1:18-21 C. Thus, because of His desire to save us, He allowed His hands and feet to be nailed and the spear to be thrust through His side: Jn. 19:31-34 III. Stanza 3 talks about what else happened when He did what He did ?The sun withdrew in sorrow behind a dark veil, Thus refusing the Lord?s death to see; And the earth tried by quaking His foes to assail, When His body was broken for me.? A. On the day that Jesus died, the sun withdrew: Matt. 26:45 B. It was during this time that the Lord died: Matt. 26:50 C. Immediately following, the earth quaked: Matt. 26:51-53 IV. Stanza 4 talks about the results of what He did ?Yes, forever and ever His great love was proved, When He suffered on dark Calvary; And the curse of the law was forever removed, When His body was broken for me.? A. Jesus proved His love for us by giving Himself as a sacrifice for us: Eph. 5:2 B. Calvary is the Latin name for the hill Golgotha upon which Jesus died: Lk. 23:33 C. By His death, the curse of the law, which is punishment for sin, was forever removed for those who would accept the benefits of His sacrifice: Gal. 3:10-14 CONCL.: The chorus reminds us of the love and compassion that Jesus proved by His suffering and death on the cross. ?O love beyond human expression, Compassion so boundless and free; Jesus proved His great wealth of affection, When His body was broken for me.? This song has sometimes been used to prepare a congregation for the Lord?s supper. Some have objected to using the term ?broken body? because the word ?broken? is not in some manuscripts and because the Bible specifically says that none of His bones were broken. However, the word ?broken? is in the vast majority of manuscripts, and the term does not refer to His bones but to His body in general, in that a broken body is one that is dying (and besides, if one wants to get technical the skin of His body was broken by the nails and the spear). Especially when I partake of the Lord?s supper, but at other times too, I need to remember that time ?When His Body Was Broken for Me.? Brotherly, Wayne S. Walker 503 S. Jefferson St. Salem, IL 62881 home phone: (618) 548-6286 cell phone: (618) 292-2694 e-mail: wswalker310 at juno.com website: www.defenderoftruth.com Notes: Other hymn studies are available at the Defender of Truth website. Also, some of my previous hymn studies are now included in book that I have written entitled Songs of Zion. It can be ordered from the publisher by calling 1-800-423-2484 or going to www.faith-facts.com . And I have a Hymn Studies blog at http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/hymnstudies/ . In addition, since this has been called to my attention, I now feel it necessary to include this disclaimer with each message. As owner of this list, I have nothing to do with the ads and links that Yahoogroups sends out with the Hymn of the Day posts nor do I have any control over them. I do not necessarily approve of them and I do not always endorse those who have placed them with Yahoogroups. ____________________________________________________________ Weight Loss Program Best Weight Loss Program - Click Here! http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2141/c?cp=7rUHeI4Qkt9AH8e8W_zWvwAAJ1AqWLnxUT_Og0R1xxm43-TkAAYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADNAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEUgAAAAA= -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091218/a346801c/attachment-0001.html From tssullivan at charter.net Sat Dec 19 09:30:34 2009 From: tssullivan at charter.net (T. Sean Sullivan) Date: Sat, 19 Dec 2009 09:30:34 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] The Messenger Vol 004 Iss 050 Message-ID: <375AA92D26194EC38FEC0DA0DDE40FB5@sean2e3f41f1ba> The Messenger 2009 Published Weekly by Main Street Church of Christ 306 West Main Street, Newbern, TN 38059 Bulletin Editor: T. Sean Sullivan VOLUME 004::ISSUE 050: December 20, 20099 This Week?s Article: How Can You Be Certain? Lesson 6: The Hope of Salvation is only in the True Church Introduction: I have heard many people accuse the church of Christ of thinking we are the only ones who are going to Heaven. These types of accusations are usually heard from the mouth of those who would also attack the fact that: The truth can be known (John 8:31-32). The truth that must be followed (2 John 9). The scriptures reveal a pattern that needs to be followed (2 Timothy 1:13). Is there any validity to their accusation? Do we believe that we are the only ones going to Heaven? Let?s answer that question with these thoughts: We must understand there is more to getting into Heaven than merely your name being on a Church of Christ attendance record. We have things that we must do in order to have our name written in the Lamb?s book of Life (Revelation 20:12). What are the basic principles that we must achieve in order to have the hope of salvation? This is the question that we will consider with open Bibles today. We are told those who BELIEVE will go to Heaven We must believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God. John 3:16 states, ?Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life?. This is a wonderful promise, shared freely with all. To receive the promise we must believe ?in? Jesus! In John 8:24 Jesus, Himself says, ?If you do not believe that I am He you will die in your sins?. Therefore to avoid being separated from God because of our sins we must believe that He ?is the Son of God?. The problem with our word belief is that lots of people have lots ideas about what this ?belief? means, but we need something more certain. Does the Bible define this ?belief in Him? and ?belief that He is?? Full acceptance of Christ! All that He taught: whether while here or through the New Testament writers (John 8:31; 2 John 9). Willingly walking His path (1 Peter 2:21-23). We cannot separate Jesus the Man from His plan. Those who ?DO? will go to Heaven. There are those who believe but fail to do. Belief alone merits nothing (James 2:14-17). Knowing something should be done and not doing it will bring no results. If a simple belief ?that Jesus is real? is enough then why were the souls in Matthew 7:21-23 turned away? These people knew Jesus and even called Him Lord. The problem was their failure to do what was commanded. They were not doing God?s will and therefore they were not accepted. If simply believing is enough why were the Jews ?who believed? told to do more (John 8:31-32)? They were instructed to also abide the instructions of His word in addition to their belief. Again, if simple belief is all that is needed why did Peter instruct those on the Day of Pentecost to do more (Acts 2:38)? They were told to repent and be baptized for the remission of sins. We must conclude belief is more than just believing; believing requires some doing (James 1:21-25). Saving belief is ?faith? and ?works? (James 2:17-24)?we must do the work. Those who are found ?DOING? will go to Heaven. When we become Christians we start on a journey. It is a journey on the pathway of righteousness (Matthew 7:13-14). This traveling begins at our obedience and must not end until our life comes to an end. In the end we must be found on that path when the time comes--either Christ?s second coming (John 14:3; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6; 1 Corinthians 15:23-24) or we physically die before He comes (Hebrews 9:27). Our reward is at the end; to get it we must continue ?doing? all the way to the end. Hebrews 10:35-39. We cannot turn back and be pleasing. We must continue on all the way. Consider Revelation 2:10 where we are instructed, ?Be faithful until death, I will give you a crown of life?. Then also think of Paul?s exhortation and personal example, 2 Timothy 4:7-8 ?Finally there is laid up for me a crown?. Conclusion: Will everyone go to Heaven? No, according to Matthew 7:13-14; 21-23 not everyone will go to Heaven. Only faithful members of the true church will be saved in the end. Emotions want us to conclude differently but we have spent the last five weeks searching the scriptures to know the pattern that God has set?we cannot ignore that information now to falsely comfort our hearts. What does this mean? We have work to do. We can no longer sit back and watch our friends and family go away from God in their beliefs. We will not win them all to Christ?but we must try. How can we be so confident? We have diligently set out to rightly divide the word of God (2 Timothy 2:15). When we have book, chapter and verse proof of truth, confidence is known. Today are you a Christian? There is a pattern of salvation that must be followed. The opportunity is yours right now. ~tss If you are enjoying The Messenger and you know someone else who would like to receive it. Please forward this copy to them and send their email address and I will add them to the list. Sean -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091219/c8de2d0f/attachment-0001.html -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/gif Size: 3298 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091219/c8de2d0f/attachment-0002.gif -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/gif Size: 7811 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091219/c8de2d0f/attachment-0003.gif From tedwards at onemain.com Fri Dec 18 12:51:20 2009 From: tedwards at onemain.com (tedwards at onemain.com) Date: Fri, 18 Dec 2009 12:51:20 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] B> Gospel Observer 12/13/09 Message-ID: <4B2B7AC8.11141.39E327@localhost> -------------------- The Gospel Observer "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" (Matt. 28:19,20). -------------------- December 13, 2009 -------------------- Contents: 1) Born Again Into The Kingdom (H.E. Phillips) 2) The Salt of the Earth (Donald P. Ames) 3) News & Notes --------------------- -1- Born Again Into The Kingdom by H.E. Phillips The church is the people who are "a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Pet. 2:9). The kingdom includes only those who are "delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son" (Col. 1:13). One enters the kingdom by the birth of water and of the Spirit and not by a physical birth (John 3:5). Among religious people it is almost universally accepted that one must be "born again" in order to enter the kingdom of heaven. It is the means by which one gets into the kingdom of God. Nicodemus came to Jesus by night and acknowledged him to be a great teacher from God. Jesus came directly to the point by saying unto him, "...Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3). That is explicit! He further said, "...Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God" (vs. 5). This language is plain and to the point. The word "Except" is used in both verses and it allows no alternative if one enters into the kingdom of God. He MUST be "born again" or "born of water and the Spirit" in order to SEE or ENTER into the kingdom of God. The context of John 3:3-13 shows that Jesus was speaking of entering the kingdom of God upon this earth, and Nicodemus so understood that. He did not understand the nature of the birth of water and the Spirit, but he understood that Jesus was talking about entering the kingdom here upon earth while man lives. Jesus distinguished this from a physical birth and that is what confused Nicodemus. One must be born again to enter the kingdom. "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost" (Titus 3:5). "Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever" (1 Pet. 1:23). The inspired John said that Jesus came to his own and they received him not, but as many as received him, to them he gave power to become the sons of God. "...Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God" (John 1:12-13). Jesus spoke of ONE birth, not two. One birth of water and the Spirit, not a physical birth. Other expressions in the New Testament help us understand the significance of the birth of water and the Spirit into the kingdom of God. The germ of life is in the seed. Jesus said, "...the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life" (John 6:63). Peter said, "Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever" (1 Pet. 1:23). The seed is the word of God (Luke 8:11). "Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures" (James 1:18). Paul said to the Corinthians, "...I have begotten you through the gospel" (1 Cor. 4:15). There are parallel passages to John 3:3-5 which make the meaning clear. Christ loved the church and gave himself for it, "That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word" (Eph. 5:26). That statement is equal to "birth of water and of the Spirit." In the New Testament there is no cleansing or sanctifying by washing of water except by baptism of a penitent believer. Another is Titus 3:5, "not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost." The washing of regeneration is the washing of rebirth. The renewing of the Holy Spirit is the effect of the work of the Spirit through the word. "Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind..." (Rom. 12:2). The renewing of the mind comes from the teaching of the Spirit by the word. Stating it plainly: "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned" (Mark 16:16). The word is the work of the Spirit which produces faith (Rom. 10:17), and baptism is the only washing of water authorized in the New Testament for cleansing anyone. "And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord" (Acts 22:16). The new birth which inducts one into the kingdom of God is exactly the same as that which brings one to be added to the church. It all occurs in the same way and brings the individual to the same place in relation to Christ and the remission of sins (Acts 2:38,47; 16:31-34; Rom. 6:3-6; Col. 2:12,13). These conditions reconcile one to God through Christ in one body (Eph. 2:15,16). We get into one body by baptism as directed by one Spirit (1 Cor. 12:13). Since there is only one Spirit, one baptism and one body (Eph. 4:3,4), the only way to get into that one body is by baptism as directed by that one Spirit through the word of God. That equals "he that believeth and is baptized" (Mark 16:16), and "born again of water and of the Spirit" (John 3:5). -- Via Searching the Scriptures, February 1992, Volume 33, Number 2 --------------------- -2- The Salt of the Earth by Donald P. Ames In Matthew 5:13-16, Jesus referred to his followers as "the salt of the earth" and as "the light of the world." Someone wisely commented, "As salt, it is our duty to make the world thirsty for Christ." Certainly that fits the context, as Jesus also said, "Let your light so shine before men, that they might see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matt. 5:16). Peter said, "Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear" (1 Pet. 3:1-2). Certainly we know the word is necessary (Rom. 10:17, 1:16), yet Peter here says that even if they can't reach them with the word, their actions may be the influencing factor to lead them to the truth. He also said, "Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation" (1 Pet. 2:11-12). Again, it is our actions that will make them re-consider their charges, and ultimately lead to their obedience (that they might glorify, not fear, God in the day of visitation). Realizing the importance of what people look at, Jesus prayed the night before he was crucified, "I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word, that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe You sent Me" (John 17:20-21). And he also said, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:35). This love for one another, when seen by the world hungry for such love, motivates them to seek to learn more of that love, as John again says in 1 John 4:19: "We love Him because He first loved us." "Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another" (4:11). Can you not see the drawing power of such love being manifested to the world? Paul said, "You are our epistle, known and read by all men; clearly you are an epistle of Christ" (2 Cor. 3:2- 3). Is your life such as to have a wholesome effect on other Christians (i.e., to edify and build them up)? "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another..." (Heb. 10:24-25). Again Paul said, "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all" (1 Thess. 5:14-15). Will it draw others to Christ, by how you live as a Christian? Will it cause them to glorify God for such godly examples of what Christianity is all about? Or, is it only fit to be cast out and "trampled underfoot by men" (Matt. 5:13)? Again, Peter says, "For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning. For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them" (2 Pet. 2:20-22). Jesus said, "Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes!" (Matt. 18:7). Let us truly try to live in such a way that we might make others thirsty for Christ! -- Via Guardian of Truth XL: 11 p. 11, June 6, 1996 --------------------- -3- News & Notes Eloise Craver is now in a rehabilitation hospital, as she is recovering from her recent broken hip and surgery for it. Let those of us who are Christians continue to pray that all will go well for her and that she will heal up completely and speedily. --------------------- 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). -------------------- CHURCH OF CHRIST 201 Rushing Road (at the Hampton Inn), Denham Springs, Louisiana 70726 Sunday services: 9:15 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 4 PM (worship) evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (225) 667-4520 tedwards1109 at gmail.com http://home.onemain.com/~tedwards/go Directions: Take the Denham Springs exit (exit 10) off of I-12. At the end of the exit ramp, turn north. Go about a stone's throw to Rushing Road. (You'll see a Starbucks, Circle K, and two other gas stations; with each on each corner.) Turn left on Rushing Road, and go less then 0.3 of a mile. Hampton Inn will be on the right. We assemble in its meeting room, which is very close to the reception counter. -------------------- -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091218/827295e8/attachment-0001.html From disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Sun Dec 20 15:21:17 2009 From: disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com (Ethan R. Longhenry) Date: Sun, 20 Dec 2009 16:21:17 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] B:> Good News for Norwalk: Volume IV, Number 51: December 20, 2009 Message-ID: Good News for Norwalk For I am not ashamed of the good news, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. (Romans 1:16) A publication of the church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio Volume IV, Number 51: December 20, 2009 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cafeteria-Style Religion An investigation of the local bookstore or magazine rack or a quick search on the Internet shows how Americans today are very interested in "spirituality." Plenty of books abound across the whole spectrum-- "Christian inspiration," "New Age," and many books describing elements of Eastern religions. These trends were recently documented in a Pew Forum survey, "Many Americans Mix Multiple Faiths" (http://pewforum.org/docs/?DocID=490). The survey indicates that most Americans still profess to be "Christian," but also noted that sizable minorities now exist in America who believe in the spiritual legitimacy of yoga (23%), reincarnation (24%), astrology (25%), and the "evil eye" (16%). 15% admitted to having visited a psychic. The percentage of "Christians" believing in such things or engaging in them was not appreciably different from the total population! The survey also indicated that many "Christians" attend religious services of faiths other than their own frequently-- 30% of identified Protestants. Most went to other Protestant churches, but 15% visited Catholic masses. This survey confirms trends that have been evident in society for some time: American religion, while always being a melting-pot of diverse faiths, has lost much of its definition. As with other aspects of society, religion has been thoroughly democratized. In America, you choose what you want to believe, and it can be a diverse hodge-podge of different ideas from different groups. In short, Americans seem to value cafeteria-style religion. Cafeteria-style religion is an understandable result of the core values of American society. Americans believe that it is best for everyone to believe as they wish without governmental interference. Americans also have come to not just value tolerance of different belief systems but also relativism: no one has a monopoly on truth, different truths can be found in different religions, and the truth of each individual is his or her own truth and need not be the truth of any other. Furthermore, Christianity is considered "old-fashioned" and "traditional" while Eastern religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism are different, "new" to us, and therefore more "exciting." And since Americans have always been skeptical of authority figures, the idea of a God who dictates what is right and wrong absolutely is a challenge, and it is easier to explore one's own spirituality. It is no wonder, therefore, that so many create their own religion out of different pieces from major belief systems! There is one commendable aspect to all of this, and that is how people are willing to investigate religious claims. Such investigation is good and profitable (cf. Acts 17:10-11, 27). But that investigation is to have a goal: the discovery of truth, not just constant investigation (2 Timothy 3:7)! The Bible teaches that the message of Christianity is to go out to all peoples and they are to decide for themselves whether they will serve God or will reject Him (Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 13:45-46). God will bring everyone into judgment for this decision (Romans 2:5-10), but Christians should not compel anyone to believe by force. While there is no compulsion, we must also declare that Christianity cannot properly be cut up into different pieces, accepting some and rejecting others, while accepting other aspects of different religions. Cafeteria-style religion may be popular among Americans, but the New Testament indicates that we do not decide what is right and wrong, but live according to God's standard of right and wrong. Jesus declared the following regarding Himself: Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no one cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:6). This is an exclusive claim that demands full acceptance or rejection. Jesus is either accurate or inaccurate-- there is no middle way. Many hear such a statement and believe it overly arrogant. Yet, if we understand what Jesus is saying in context, it is not arrogant at all. Jesus is showing His disciples that if they have seen His great deeds and wonderful teachings, they have seen the Father in Him (cf. John 14:7-12). Jesus claimed to be God in human form, the Word made flesh (John 1:1, 14, 8:58). God the Son has fully declared God the Father in word and deed (John 1:18). If this is true, then Jesus' claim is natural, understandable, and worthy of acceptance-- since God is the Creator and has established His rules for the creation, if Jesus has completely manifested the way of God and is God, He is the embodiment of truth and life, and His life shows us the way! This means that Jesus and His written revelation is our standard. Is it true that we will discover some truths in other religions? Absolutely-- but those elements are not true because they are part of those religions, but because they are in alignment with the will of God as revealed in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:3-11, 2 Timothy 3:16-17). If we understand that Jesus of Nazareth is a most compelling figure, and worthy of imitation, then we cannot participate in "cafeteria-style religion." Instead, we must follow the path of Jesus wherever it leads (1 John 2:6). This requires the rejection of Eastern practices. The Hebrew author declares that men are appointed to die once and then face judgment (Hebrews 9:27); reincarnation is therefore out of the question. Astrology, belief in the "evil eye," and psychics all fall under the black arts, described as sorcery in the Bible, a work of the flesh, things we must avoid (Galatians 5:19-21). Yoga as a spiritual practice and other such things must be compared with the standard of God found in the New Testament, and there is little basis for justifying such things in its pages (cf. 1 John 4:1, Colossians 2:20-23). We will find what we need to do from God's Word, not from Eastern religions (2 Timothy 3:17)! Finally, there is the matter of visiting various churches. God has commanded Christians to assemble with one another to build each other up and to partake of the Lord's Supper (Acts 20:7, Hebrews 10:24-25), and to work together in local assemblies to build up the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27, Ephesians 4:11-16). For far too many "churches," the assemblies are more like shows or entertainment than they are times for Christians to come together to strengthen one another. Too many have the mindset that their Christianity or that Christianity itself is based in its assemblies, when in reality, assemblies represent the time of strengthening necessary to live the Christian life (1 Corinthians 14:26, Hebrews 10:24-25). Christianity involves individual believers being conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29), of which assembling with fellow believers is a part. Cafeteria-style religion may be fashionable but there is no indication that it will save anyone in the wrath to come. Instead, we encourage you to seek after New Testament Christianity, looking to Jesus who is the truth and working with other believers who do the same (1 John 1:5-2:6). Let us learn truth from Jesus, for our own ways cannot save (Jeremiah 10:26)! Ethan R. Longhenry evangelist at norwalkchurch.org ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio Thank you for reading the electronic version of our bulletin, Good News for Norwalk. If you live in Norwalk or happen to be traveling in the Norwalk area, we would certainly love to have you visit one of our assemblies! Our location: 386 North Edgewood Drive (just off US 250 just north of Norwalk's city limits) Norwalk, Ohio 44857 Our assemblies: Sunday morning assembly: 10:30am Sunday evening assembly: 6:00pm Our Bible studies: Sunday morning Bible study: 9:30am Wednesday evening Bible study: 7:00pm ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For More Information If you have any questions or comments about anything you have read here, or desire more information, please contact our evangelist, Ethan Longhenry, at evangelist at norwalkchurch.org. Ethan R. Longhenry / disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Evangelist, church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio [norwalkchurch.org] Homepage: deusvitae.com AIM: Deus Vitae / ICQ: 28317056 Y! IM: discipuliiesus Spiritual Manna A biweekly devotional for your life. http://www.deusvitae.com/faith/manna From richard at thetford.dot5hosting.com Sun Dec 20 18:25:23 2009 From: richard at thetford.dot5hosting.com (Richard Thetford) Date: Sun, 20 Dec 2009 17:25:23 -0700 Subject: [Biblemat] Walking in the Light (12/20/09) Message-ID: <000c01ca81d4$77870e30$66952a90$@dot5hosting.com> San Juan Logo PNG.png Walking in the Light "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105) December 20, 2009 www.thetfordcountry.com --- INFORMATION Walking in the Light is published each week by Richard Thetford. You are encouraged to visit the web site at www.thetfordcountry.com and then click on "Richard's Home Page" to view numerous sermons, articles, radio program scripts, class material and other information. If you know of someone who would like to subscribe to "Walking in the Light," please send their name and e-mail address to richard at thetfordcountry.com. In addition, if you want to advertise for "churches looking for preachers" and "preachers looking for churches," go to www.thetfordcountry.com and click on the appropriate link. Fill out the easy form and your listing will be uploaded to the web site within 48 hours (usually the same day). --- CONTENTS "How Many Shopping Days Are Left?" (Richard Thetford) "Stop Taking God's Name in Vain" (Robert Hines) "How Can I Know Who Is Right?" (Greg Gwin) SENTENCE SERMONS --- HOW MANY SHOPPING DAYS ARE LEFT? Richard Thetford During this holiday season we are constantly reminded each day by those on the radio and on television of how many shopping days are left until Christmas. The reminders are there so we will continue to remember to get those presents before Christmas day sneaks up on us and we find ourselves unprepared. This got me to thinking about how many shopping days are left in our life? How many days do we have to be ready for death or the return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? In reality, this is our final shopping day. Why? Because we don't know that we will have another day. The apostle Paul wrote: "For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night" (1 Thes 5:2). Peter wrote: "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness" (2 Pet 3:10-11). Since we do not know when the Lord will appear again, we better make sure that we are making the appropriate purchases on our last shopping day. What kind of purchases? We should be investing in the fruits of the spirit (Gal 5:22-23). We should also be adding to our shopping list and giving all diligence to do as Peter said: "...add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love" (2 Pet 1:5-7). He goes on to tell us why we should add these things; "For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble" (2 Pet 1:8-10). We don't know how many shopping days we have left until our life is over. Therefore, let's make sure we are perfecting our life toward God and storing up treasures in heaven (Matt 5:48; 6:20). --- STOP TAKING GOD'S NAME IN VAIN Robert Hines You have been a Christian for years and it is a surprise to hear some of the things you say in conversation, things like, Oh, my God, I can't believe it" or "My God, what happened" or "God, I'm so tired" or "Dear Lord, what a shame" or "Lordy, what a mess." Your friends are fairly confident these are not prayers and you're not talking to God at all. You may not even realize what you are saying. It may just be a habit, your long time way of intensifying something you want to say. Whether or not you realize what you are saying, we know what it sounds like. It sounds horrible and completely out of place in your life as a Christian. It sounds like a cheapened worldly use of God's name. You know that one of Israel's Ten Commandments is "You shall not take the name of the Lord our God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain" (Exodus 20:7). You know that "vain" here has the idea of "empty" or "worthless." That's what your "Oh my God" is: using His name in an empty and worthless way, a throwaway word rather than the sacred respect the God of heaven deserves and requires. This worldly use of God's name is condemned in Leviticus 19:12. "And you shall not swear by My name falsely, nor shall you profane the name of your God: I am the Lord." The idea in "profane" is of treating something sacred in a common way, and treating something holy in an unholy way, a way that gives it no importance. Such vain, empty, worthless, profane words are surely a part of what the Lord calls "idle" words in Matthew 12:35-36, words that do no work and accomplish nothing good. "But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment, For by your words you will be justified and by your words you will be condemned." It is time for you to repent of such talk, and ask the God whose name you have profaned to forgive you and help you change the way you speak to the simplicity He requires. "Let your 'Yes,' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' For whatever is more than these is from the evil one" (Matthew 5:37). You would think that as long as you have been a Christian you would have let the Lord get this out of you by now. But you haven't. And so someone who loves you needs to be blunt with you and tell you it's time to stop. You don't sound like a Christian. It offsets any good you have to say. Those who love you want you to stop. --- HOW CAN I KNOW WHO IS RIGHT? Greg Gwin Take a look at the divided religious world around us. Hundreds of different groups are teaching different doctrines and practicing different creeds. To the uninitiated it is surely a confusing and frustrating situation. How can a person know who is right? How can we be sure what God wants us to do? Here are some essential guidelines: Remember that we are searching for God's answer, not man's. Worship is "in vain" when it follows "for doctrines the commandments of men" (Matt. 15:9). God's truth is revealed solely and exclusively in the Bible. Despite many claims to the contrary, no one today has received spiritual truth in any way other than from God's word. ". . . thy word is truth" (John 17:17) Not only is truth found in God's word, but we can have confidence that every bit of truth we need is there. The Scriptures teach us everything we need to be "complete, furnished completely unto every good work" (2 Tim. 3:16,17). The Bible says that there are many false teachers in the world, and warns us to "believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God" (l John 4:1). Finally, we must be determined to accept God's word, and nothing else. "If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed" (Gal. 1:9). Understanding how important it is to know who is right in matters of religion, it behooves us all to carefully consider what we believe and what we have been doing. Jesus said we can know the truth (John 8:32). Study! --- SENTENCE SERMONS It is better to be despised for the right than to be praised for the wrong. Many people are making a good living, but only a few are making good lives. He who thinks lightly of sin, thinks lightly of God. A man's character and a fence are alike; neither can be strengthened by whitewash. The company we choose is always an index of our character. The prayer need not be long when faith is strong. --- SERMONS The Star in the East (PPT/PDF Charts and Audio) Prove All Things (PPT/PDF Charts and Audio) www.thetfordcountry.com --- cid:image003.gif at 01C9DCB3.EEF5E980 1414 Hawk Parkway, Unit C Montrose, CO 81401 (970) 626-5558 www.sanjuanchurchofchrist.org MEETING TIMES Sunday Bible Study...........10:00 A.M. Morning Worship..11:00 A.M. Afternoon Worship..2:00 P.M. Wednesday Bible Study........6:30 P.M. (No Wednesday night Bible study November - February) Evangelist/Editor Richard Thetford Home: (970) 626-5558 E-Mail: richard at thetfordcountry.com Web Site: www.thetfordcountry.com --- RICHARD THETFORD 1491 Canyon Drive Ridgway, CO 81432 (970) 626-5558 E-Mail: richard at thetfordcountry.com Web Site: www.thetfordcountry.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... 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Name: not available Type: image/gif Size: 9271 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091220/a6a131a8/attachment-0003.gif From j5827sasser at wmconnect.com Mon Dec 21 02:19:28 2009 From: j5827sasser at wmconnect.com (j5827sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Mon, 21 Dec 2009 03:19:28 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) OLDER AND IMPROVED? Message-ID: <15c.7d7ad4b2.38608990@wmconnect.com> Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Monday morning to each and everyone. May God bless you and yours. Here is an artic- le from my files: OLDER AND IMPROVED? We've all heard the television commrcials that tell us about a product that's "new and improved." This is in contrast to an older and therefore inferior product. At leas that is what they are hoping will cause you to buy the "new" item. No matter how hard you and I try none of us can hold back the natural process of aging. We can exercise, eat right, take vitamins, put on moist- urizing lotions, but guess what...we still get older. That indisput- able truth is found in 2 Cor. 4:16, where Paul says: "Our outward man is perishing." As bad as that sounds, though, there is good news in all of this. At the same time our bodies rush with determination toward destruction, we can enjoy a youthful strength in our walk with God. Through the constant renewal of our "Inward man" (vs. 16), we grow more and more prepared to be with God. "Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day." Spiritual age does not have the same effect as physical age. Instead of slowing down as we walk longer with God, we should be enjoying a little more spring in our step. The longer we have fellowship with Him, the better off we should be. We may be gett- ing older on the outside but we can be "older and improved" in- wardly. We should be growing spiritually. The difficulties we bear are helping us store up heavenly glory, not weighing us down. It is true -- if you're walking with Christ, you're not just getting older, you're getting better. "For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens" (2 Cor. 5:1). ---- Shane Williams in The Lilbourn Light, Vol. 10, No. 7, Nov. 2009. From j5827sasser at wmconnect.com Mon Dec 21 02:19:46 2009 From: j5827sasser at wmconnect.com (j5827sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Mon, 21 Dec 2009 03:19:46 EST Subject: [Biblemat] S) GOD IS SPEAKING TO YOU (3) Message-ID: <15f.67af81d7.386089a2@wmconnect.com> Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. Here is the third and final installment of this particular study. Use to the glory of God. GOD IS SPEAKING TO YOU (3) God Guides Us Today By The Scriptures: -- Many today are look- ing for some "mystical revelation" from God to guide their lives. Some say, "We need something more than the Bible to guide us." But, as the above passages show, God uses His written Word to speak to all men today. Paul declares that the Scriptur- es are "able to make the man of God complete, completely furn- ished unto all good works" (2 Tim. 3:17). Another insists that the Bible is just a "dead letter," without relevance in our modern society. But God answers that: "For the Word of God is living, and active, and sharper than any two- edged sword, and piercing even to the dividing of soul and spir- it, of both joints and marrow, adn quick to discern the thoughts and intents of the heart. And there is no creature that is not manifest in His sight: but all things are naked and laid open be- fore the eyes of Him with Whom we have to do" (Heb. 4:12,13). Still another asks: "How do we know that the Scriptures are complete, that they give us all of Gopd's Will?" Well, God answ- ers that one, too. "And that from a babe though hast known the sacred writings which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. Every Scripture inspired of God is also profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction which is in righteousness. That the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work" (2 Tim. 3:16,17). Again, "His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and righteousness" (2 Pet. 1:3). And the apostle Paul wrote to some who were departing from what God had re- vealed. "Now these thngs, brethren, I have in a figure transferr- ed to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that in us ye might learn not to go beyond the things whcih are written" (1 Cor. 4:6). The apostle John also addressed this matter: (2 Jno. 9-11). Thus it is clear that if one "goes onward" beyond the Scriptures, he "has not God." Again, John writes: (Rev. 22:18,19). Even though John was writing specifically of this Book of Revelation, still the principle is clear. We dare not add to the Word of God, nor do we dare to take from it. Where can we find the commandments of God? Where can we find His Will for our lives? Where can we find wht God wants us to do? The answer is simple. In the Book which He has given us, the Book we call the Bible. And so God urges all of us, "Give diligence to present thyself approved unto God, a work- man that needeth not to be ashamed, handling aright the Word of Truth" (2 Tim. 2:15). The Lord Jesus urges us to "search the Scriptures" (Jno. 5:39), because the Bible contains the Will of God for our lives. God speaks to us today only through the inspired Scriptures Don't expect Him to speak in some other way or through some other medium. So, respect His Word, study His Word, believe His Word, obey His Word. Then, you have His promise that you can live with Him in eternity. ----- Clem Thurman in Gospel Minu- tes, Vol. 58, No. 49, Dec. 4, 2009. From kerux at bellsouth.net Mon Dec 21 12:12:21 2009 From: kerux at bellsouth.net (Kent Heaton) Date: Mon, 21 Dec 2009 13:12:21 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] A>Turn Away My Eyes (Kent Heaton) Message-ID: <7B4159D5A4204D2E90BA766EA2504AE1@D2381J91> Turn Away My Eyes (Kent Heaton) There are many things to look at in the world that are beyond description in beauty. "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork" (Psalms 19:1). A baby's smile will make the heart fill with love. The expression of love in an older couple is a wonderful testimony to the nature of devotion. The list is endless of those things that will inspire the eye with beauty. The wise poet of Psalm 119 made an observation about what we should not look at. "Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way" (Psalms 119:37). Sadly, there are many "worthless things" that we look at. These things are vain and foolish desires that corrupt the heart and lead us astray from the holiness of God. Our possessions can become what we focus on more than God. Covetousness is the problem of looking at our "stuff" as more important than serving the Lord. Achan admitted the reason he took the forbidden things was that he coveted after them (Joshua 7:21). As a result he lost his life along with the life of his "sons, his daughters, his oxen, his donkeys, his sheep, his tent, and all that he had, and they brought them to the Valley of Achor . So all Israel stoned him with stones; and they burned them with fire after they had stoned them with stones" (Joshua 7:24). He should have turned his eyes away (Proverbs 23:5). King David one evening "arose from his bed and walked on the roof of the king's house. And from the roof he saw a woman bathing, and the woman was very beautiful to behold" (2 Samuel 11:2). Instead of turning his eyes away he inquired of the woman, brought her to his house and committed adultery (2 Samuel 11:3-4). The result was a baby born which then died as punishment for the sin of David and Bathsheba. Further judgment was brought upon the house of David because he did not turn his eyes away (2 Samuel 12). The Lord warns against lusting with the eyes. Job declares that he had "made a covenant with my eyes; why then should I look upon a young woman" (Job 31:1)? Jesus admonished in the mountain sermon, "whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). In our world filled with immodesty, pornography (internet especially) and no restrictions on television we must follow the Psalmist in turning our eyes away from worthless things. How do we turn our eyes away? In our text of Psalm 119:37 it says "Revive me in Your way." Only by letting our lives be found in God and walking with God will our eyes be turned away from evil. "Let your eyes look straight ahead, and your eyelids look right before you. Ponder the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established. Do not turn to the right or the left; Remove your foot from evil" (Proverbs 4:25-27). Albert Barnes writes, "A man should be thankful in this world that he has eyelids; and as he can close his eyes, so he should often do it." The prophet Isaiah exhorts the people of God to shut their eyes from evil so that "Your eyes will see the King in His beauty" (Isaiah 33:15-17). We are what we look at and allow to fill our hearts with (Matthew 15:17-20). Jesus said, "The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness" (Matthew 6:22-23). Watch what you see! Kent Heaton 206 NE Fourth Avenue Trenton, Florida 32693 (H) 352-463-6916 (O) 3793 (C) 352-283-3889 www.trentonchurchofchrist.com Audio Sermons Available www.northfloridabiblecamp.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091221/d50096a1/attachment-0001.html From disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Mon Dec 21 22:35:35 2009 From: disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com (Ethan R. Longhenry) Date: Mon, 21 Dec 2009 23:35:35 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] S:> 1 Peter 2:11-17: Honorable Conduct Message-ID: 1 Peter 2:11-17: Honorable Conduct I. Base Text: 1 Peter 2:11-17 II. Understanding the Text A. Background 1. 1 Peter 1:1-9: great encouragement in the midst of trial-- hope of the Christian based in the resurrection, salvation ready for the final day 2. 1 Peter 1:10-12: Great value of salvation, desire of angels to investigate it 3. 1 Peter 1:13-21: first application: set hope fully on grace, be holy in conduct, conduct self with fear throughout life, ransomed by blood of Christ 4. 1 Peter 1:22-25: second application: having been purified through obedience, love earnestly from a pure heart, having been born again by the imperishable Word of God, the Gospel 5. 1 Peter 2:1-3: Put away wickedness, grow up into salvation through pure spiritual milk of Word, if you have tasted that the Lord is good 6. 1 Peter 2:4-10: believers as being built up into spiritual house of God while unbelievers stumble over Jesus; believers in Christ the new Israel B. Abstaining from Passions, Honorable Conduct (1 Peter 2:11-12) 1. Peter indicates his spiritual affection for them-- "beloved" 2. Speaks to them as "sojourners and exiles" a. cf. 1 Peter 1:1 b. Many think it refers to Jews separated from Israel c. Yet, as seen in preceding verses, Peter consciously attaching claims regarding physical Israel to Christians who were "not a people" d. Therefore, a reference to Christians as not being of this world (1 John 2:15-17) e. Citizens of heaven, from whom we await a Savior (Philippians 3:20-21) 3. Exhortation to abstain from passions of flesh, waging war against soul a. Sounds extremely similar to Paul in Galatians 5:17-24 b. The spiritual conflict-- Galatians 5:17-24, Ephesians 6:10-18 c. Expectation that desires of the body will conflict with desires of the soul 4. Conduct among Gentiles is to be kept honorable 5. Reason: when they speak against believers as evildoers, will see good deeds, glorify God on day of visitation a. Seems contradictory: how can they speak against believers as evildoers but see good deeds and glorify God? b. Based in different events: today, partly because of conviction (cf. 1 Peter 4:4), consider Christians as evildoers because they do not continue in sin c. Yet, when God returns to judge the people, they will see all the good the Christians did and have to declare God just and glorious! d. Interesting-- "when" spoken against, not "if" e. Complete expectation that Gentiles will speak against believers f. They are looking for reasons to accuse Christians-- hence, pressure on Christians to be honorable in all conduct (cf. Matthew 5:13-16)! C. Subject to Human Institutions for God's Sake (1 Peter 2:13-14) 1. Part of keeping conduct honorable is obeying earthly authorities 2. Romans 13:1-7 3. Subject for the Lord's sake a. Jesus, even though the Son of God, did not attempt to overthrow government b. We are part of spiritual Kingdom (John 18:36) c. Our focus on the spiritual means that we must be in proper subjection to the physical government, for our quarrel is not with them (Ephesians 6:12)! d. Furthermore, if we refuse to subject ourselves to earthly governments, how will people believe that we subject ourselves to God in Christ? e. Standard exception-- when true conflict between two exist, obey God rather than man (Acts 5:29) 4. Both to Emperor and governors 5. Governors as sent to punish the evil, praise those doing good D. God's Will (1 Peter 2:15) 1. Peter then sums up what was said before (vv. 11-14) and what comes after (vv. 16-25): God's will is to put silence the ignorance of the foolish by good deeds 2. In their attempt to justify disobeying God, many point to the hypocrisy of believers in God 3. Peter encourages Christians to not give them fodder 4. After all, there is no law against doing good (cf. Galatians 5:24), and even the most hardened unbeliever cannot argue against acts of love, mercy, and compassion! 5. They may not know of the One True God, but they should be able to learn of Christ by seeing the life of the believer (Romans 8:29, Galatians 2:20, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27) 6. The folly of sin is most evident when compared to the benefits of goodness! E. Living as Free (1 Peter 2:16-17) 1. Peter then encourages Christians to live as those who are free 2. Warning: freedom not license, but deliverance! 3. Romans 6:16-23 8:2 4. As Peter says: freedom not a cover-up for evil, but as servants of God 5. Believers not to be focused on their wants and "license," but to devote themselves to what God desires 6. Peter then provides pithy statements of how we keep our conduct pure and honorable and free 7. Honor everyone (cf. Romans 13:8-10, Philippians 2:1-4) 8. Love the brotherhood (cf. 1 Peter 1:22-24, 1 John 4:7-21) 9. Fear God (Psalm 19:9, 2 Corinthians 5:11, 7:1) 10. Honor the emperor (Romans 13:1-7, 1 Timothy 2:1-2, 1 Peter 2:13-14) F. If we do these things, our conduct will be honorable, and God will be glorified! III. Applications A. Abstaining from Passions of the Flesh 1. We are all constantly at war with ourselves, as Peter makes evident! 2. Romans 7:13-25 describes that contest at length 3. If we do not feel that we are having that contest, does that mean that we have won the battle for Christ-- or have we lost it? 4. When the desires of the flesh war against the desires of the spirit, who most often wins? 5. What can be done in order to tilt the battle more toward the spirit? a. Seek out brethren (Hebrews 10:24-25)? b. Pray (1 Thessalonians 5:17)? c. Flee (1 Corinthians 6:13)? 6. The battle must be won for God! B. Honorable Conduct 1. Peter presents an extremely realistic description of our situation in the world 2. As believers, we purport to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16) 3. At any given moment, even if we do not put ourselves on that pedestal, others are watching 4. Our conduct, therefore, must be worthy of honor! 5. By necessity, such means that we are avoiding sins, doing what is right 6. But it also requires us to go above and beyond-- even if we could justify certain behaviors as not being sinful, they may cause unbelievers to think us less honorable! 7. The spotlight is difficult-- but we must bear it 8. We must also recognize that we will likely be maligned no matter what we do-- but we need to do good anyways! 9. Even if they do not like it, they cannot argue against it! C. Subject to Human Institutions; Honoring the Emperor 1. Peter provides the same testimony as Paul in terms of Christians and earthly authorities 2. We are to be subject to them and honor them for their purpose 3. The Emperor in question is Nero-- we have yet to have had a President of the United States who was less deserving of honor than Nero 4. Yet Peter tells believers to honor him! 5. Recognition: our contest is not with flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12), and we are of the spiritual kingdom (John 18:36, Philippians 3:20-21), with spiritual priorities (Matthew 6:33) 6. The Gospel can change people, not government (Romans 1:16)! 7. We have our hands sufficiently full with our spiritual contests, both within ourselves and against the spiritual powers of darkness-- we should not have time for the political wrangling and demonstrations of disobedience! 8. If we disrespect and/or disobey earthly rulers, how can we expect to get anyone to respect and obey God? 9. If we disrespect and/or disobey earthly rulers, are we not giving plenty of reason for ignorant and foolish people to blaspheme? 10. Who are the unbelievers who will consider our conduct honorable if we disrespect and/or disobey earthly rulers? D. Living as Free People 1. The idea of freedom has been distorted by society 2. Freedom in America is considered as license to do as one wishes 3. In Christianity, freedom is deliverance from sin and death and bondage 4. The expectation is that you are freed from sin to serve God (Romans 6:18, 1 Peter 2:16) 5. Therefore, we must not use our freedoms in Christ to cover up evil desires, thoughts, or actions within the world 6. We should also not use our freedom and liberties in Christ to cover up rivalries, strife, and self-seeking within the Body (Romans 14) 7. Love, humility, and service-- the characteristics of Christ and thus Christians-- demand concern for others and a willingness to help them in any way possible, which is antithetical to focus on self and what self wants to do! E. Honoring Everyone 1. We are all equal before God (Romans 2:11, Galatians 3:28) 2. God desires everyone to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4) 3. We are to love everyone, even those who do not like us (Luke 6:27-31) 4. It is natural to judge others and find a reason to not like them (cf. Matthew 7:1-4)-- we must resist and find ways to honor and love others! IV. Conclusion A. 1 Peter 2:11-17 B. We must conduct ourselves honorably! 1. Abstain from passions of flesh 2. Do good, silence ignorance of foolish people 3. Honor earthly authorities 4. Serve God, live as free, honor everyone C. Let us serve God, conduct ourselves honorably, and be the force of good in the world! D. Invitation/songbook Ethan R. Longhenry / disciple_of_iesus at hotmail.com Evangelist, church of Christ in Norwalk, Ohio [norwalkchurch.org] Homepage: deusvitae.com AIM: Deus Vitae / ICQ: 28317056 Y! IM: discipuliiesus Spiritual Manna A biweekly devotional for your life. http://www.deusvitae.com/faith/manna From crxtra at gmail.com Mon Dec 21 21:38:17 2009 From: crxtra at gmail.com (Steven C. Harper) Date: Mon, 21 Dec 2009 20:38:17 -0700 Subject: [Biblemat] A> The Tie That Binds Message-ID: <000001ca82b8$34a321a0$9de964e0$@com> The Tie That Binds "Blest be the 'tie that binds' our hearts in Christian love, the fellowship of kindred minds." These are familiar words from a well loved, familiar song, often sang at funerals as a final good-by before the casket is closed, or at times when brethren will soon be parting because of the dismissal of worship or relocation to another part of the country. What a wonderful thought that we are of kindred minds. (Phililppians 1:27 and Romans 12:16 teach us to be of the same mind, and how sad when the tie is broken by any means. It is difficult for many of us to sing the song without tears, as we are reminded of those special friends and relatives that have left our midst for one reason or another, but are still in our hearts. Some of the ones we lose, we will not see again in this lifetime, and some we may only be able to see occasionally or not at all because of the distance between us. Regardless of the reason that friends or relatives must part, it is always a sad moment when it comes to good-bys. We are sometimes comforted when we sing this song because it gives us a reminder that our relationships and our love for those who have parted, don't have to end then. Our relationships may one day be rekindled if both parties live a godly life, but sadly we sometimes are reminded of things that we could have done, but didn't. This is a time of year when we are especially brought to remembrance of those we love and miss, perhaps more than at other times of the year. Many of us make plans to visit with them; we make phone calls more often to express our love to them. Many of us will spend more money than usual to buy gifts for those we love and wait with anticipation to see smiles of pleasure on their faces. Some of us will actually send regular mail to those we love and miss and wish them joy and happiness or good wishes for the coming New Year. The Greatest Gifts. Some of us will spend a lot of time trying to decide what a good gift would be for a particular person. If we are trying to think of the best gift to give to that person who seemingly has everything - let us not forget that the greatest gift that we can give to anyone is the gospel of Jesus Christ - the tie that binds. Let's ask ourselves, "Do they have Christ in their lives?" Christ gave the greatest gift of all when he died for us that we might have eternal life. We need to pass on this gift, and not hoard it. Do those we care about know that God gave His only son for them that they might be saved? Do they know that if they obey God and let the waters of baptism wash away their sins, they can live forever? Do they know that they have the possibility of seeing loved ones in the future if they live for Christ now? Do they know that they in turn can change the lives of others by sharing the gospel with them? Another of the best gifts that we can give is ourselves. How about telling those we love that we don't want our lives here to be the end of our relationship? How about reminding those who do know these things that we look forward to knowing them in God's kingdom? Maybe we could give the gift of love and hope to those who feel despair and loneliness. Maybe we could share the gift of the gospel and of ourselves - with, not only those we love, but with those we don't know very well, by getting to know them. Maybe we could take a little extra time to let our brothers and sisters know they are special to us, and their soul is important to us. How about visiting the shut-ins and sick and let them know they are missed, instead of just sending a card and telling them. How about asking them if there is anything that we can do for them - in person? Maybe they need some help with their shopping, or housecleaning or doctor visits. Cards and messages are terrific, but visits, except for those who are too ill for them, can't be replaced by messages - even inside a beautiful card. A visit in person may save the life of someone who is lonely or desperately looking for a reason to keep on going despite illness or hard times. This is the time of year that yields more crime and suicides because of feelings of inadequacy at providing for loved ones, or inability at dealing with loneliness and depression. I wonder how many suicides of those we have known and loved could have been prevented by a timely visit from someone bearing a sincere gift of love and concern and genuine, unsolicited care. Much of the depression in those who have it is because they are alone and have no one to share special times with anymore. A lot is because they feel there is no one who really cares for them or wants to put up with their problems, and they begin to feel like a burden to others. How about we include some of these loners in our family plans and try to make them feel they are a part of our family and not alone, and let them feel that, instead of being a burden, it is a privilege to be able to enjoy their company? What about the widows and widowers who are often overlooked at special times and occasions because they are no longer a couple? What family or child can't use an extra grandma or grandpa? And, what grandma or grandpa can ever have too many children to dote over or read bible stories to, or make cookies for? There's a lot to be learned from the elderly and they love to pass on their experiences and knowledge to about anyone who will listen. Will You? Will you be one of those who will listen? Will you be one who will share your life with someone who needs to belong? Will you be one who will give the gift of the gospel to someone who doesn't have it? Will you be one who will give of yourself in whatever way that you are able to, not only to those you love, but also to those you haven't taken the time to get to know? Will you be one who will take the time to get to know those whom you don't, such as neighbors or members of your congregation? (Gal. 6:10) - "As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." Will you, the next time you sing, "Blest be the tie that binds." mean every word that you sing, and have no regrets that you made every effort that you could to bind your heart to others and tie them together with the love and hope sent from God? As the casket is closed, will you be able to say, "See you later," instead of, "I wish I had paid more attention to him while he was here; maybe that would have made a difference?" Will you be able to say, "When we asunder part, It gives us inward pain; But we shall still be joined in heart, and hope to meet again" - and know you did all you could to make this happen? The Bible teaches, in 1st John 3:17, "Whoever has this world's goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?" Luke 12:48 says, ".to whom much is given, from him much will be required." We need to give our hearts to others, as well as our goods, and not hold back whatever resources that we have in showing love and care for our fellowman. In Conclusion. "Blest be the tie that binds," and blest be those who make a knot in that tie and hang on to brothers or sisters for dear life - whether it is concerning the physical life here or eternal life with God! Let us not forget: "If we fail to do the good that we could, or do the bad that we should not, we fail in our life's journey as human beings and become mere beings, and are no longer separated from the animal world as the beings with intelligence and character!" -- A Concerned Disciple -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091221/18119ace/attachment.html From richardson9 at charter.net Sun Dec 27 13:52:12 2009 From: richardson9 at charter.net (richardson9 at charter.net) Date: Sun, 27 Dec 2009 11:52:12 -0800 Subject: [Biblemat] help - "Where Are The Dead?" chart Message-ID: <20091227145212.EUJ77.1239133.root@mp20> Brethren, Do any of you have a Powerpoint presentation on "Where Are The Dead?" (like Eugene Britnell's mat'l years ago). Thanks ... brotherly, Dan Richardson From thornhill1 at frontiernet.net Sun Dec 27 18:21:07 2009 From: thornhill1 at frontiernet.net (thomas thornhill) Date: Sun, 27 Dec 2009 18:21:07 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] the buckhorn teacher 12-27-09 Message-ID: <5552EE265EC747F8A81FA04B803FB377@your4dacd0ea75> THE BUCKHORN TEACHER "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." 2.Tim.4:2 Buckhorn church of Christ - Thomas Thornhill - editor. 13675 Hwy 341, Randolph MS 38864-9117. Tel. 662-568-2960. Cell 662-419-5378.E-mail thornhill1 at frontiernet.netTV program - the internet - w07bn.com Vol.8 December 27, 2009 No.16 As I write this article the year 2009 is fast drawing to a close and with its passing the year 2010 will begin. It almost seems like yesterday that the year 2009 just begun and now it is almost ended. Of course, that is the way it is with time. As it passes into history pause a moment and reflect on the fact it will never come again. The clock of time never stands still, nor does it run backward. It cannot be stored up for future use. It continues steadily forward and once it is past it can never be recalled. Since this is the case we would do well to ponder the question, "How many more will I be privileged to see?" Some of you reading this seem to take it for granted that you are guaranteed to live another full year. Need I remind you that some of our relatives, friends and acquaintances that started 2009 among the living are no longer here? Some of them were prepared for the eventuality, many were not, yet all had to accept the fact that time is transitory. Someone has aptly said, "Yesterday is a canceled check, tomorrow is a promissory note, today is the only cash we have available." None of us can know what tomorrow will bring. Yes, the year 2010 is coming and if you live to see it start you will begin to record more of your life's history as the days go by. What will be recorded? Will you finish the year or will your journey end before it is over? How will it end? Are you prepared for whatever happens? You certainly have no guarantee that you will see 2011. So, heed Paul's admonition, "See that you walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil" Eph.5:15-16. This passage teaches us to use wisely (make the best of) the time we have left to make up for all the wasted and spent opportunities of the past. Keep in mind God controls all things so whatever time we have left we need to use for God. Since time is short as compared to eternity the number of "evil" days (troubles and trials of daily living, cf. Matt.6:34) we endure is not important, but how we use them are important. One day we will have to die so we need to use the time we have left to prepare for it. With your allotted days you have in your possession the most precious commodities in the world, your soul and the souls of those who are being influenced by you. How you use these days will be a determining factor in where these souls will spend eternity. So it should be of great concern to you to make the best use of these opportunities to help yourself and them. You have a choice as to how you greet the coming year and how you will live it afterward. How it ends for you will be your choice Josh.24:15. So, redeem the time. It is short but eternity is long. TEACH US TO NUMBER OUR DAYS" We rush along. One year ends, and a new year dawns. But how many more of them for us? There is no guarantee for any of us. And there are too few that ask the important questions: "What am I here for? Where did I come from? Where am I going?" The Scripture exhort us, "So teach us to number our days, that we may get us a heart of wisdom" (Ps.90:12). In this hurry-up world of materialism even the ending of a year should make us aware of the impending close of our earthly life: "It is appointed unto men once to die.The living know that they shall die" (Heb.9:27; Eccl.9:5). Of our earthly life, the apostle wrote, "What is your life? For ye are a vapor that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away" (Jas.4:14). As 2009 draws to a close, we should be reminded that the flowers that bloomed last Spring are now faded and gone. We live but a short time, then our "December" arrives. And life ends. We cannot live 2009 over again, but we can "get us a heart of wisdom," and find purpose and happiness in 2010. King Solomon, the richest man on earth in his time, wrote the book of Ecclesiastes, which records his search for purpose and happiness. Let us see what God had him write about purpose and happiness. Happiness is not found in Material riches. Stocks and bonds, 401k's, IRAs, real estate, bank accounts and annuities will not guarantee happiness. The rich man wrote, "I gathered me also silver and gold, and the treasure of kings and of the provinces; I got me men-singers and women singers, and the delights of the sons of men, musical instruments, and that of all sorts. So I was great, and increased more than all that were before me in Jerusalem: also my wisdom remained with me.and behold all was vanity and a striving after wind, and there was no profit under the sun" (Eccl.2:8, 9, 11). What happiness did Judas find with his thirty pieces of silver? Or Achan, with his wedge of gold? Or the hoarded portion of the sale by Ananias and Sapphira? Yes, many have coveted wealth, and "pierced themselves through with many sorrows" as the apostle wrote (1.Tim.6:10). Happiness is not found in dominant power. Solomon was the most powerful king on earth. But he wrote, "And I hated all my labor wherein I labored under the sun, seeing that I must leave it unto the man that shall be after me. And who knowth whether he will be a wise man or a fool? Yet will he have a rule over all my labor wherein I have labored, and wherein I have showed myself wise under the sun. This is also vanity" (Eccl.2:18, 19). Happiness is not found in worldly pleasure. Many avidly seek happiness in the giddy whirl of pleasure and social entertainment. But Solomon wrote, "I said in my heart, come now, I will prove thee with mirth; therefore enjoy pleasure; and behold, this also was vanity. I said of laughter, it is mad, and of mirth, what doeth it?" (Eccl.2:1, 2). Often Solomon said: "All is vanity under the sun." Happiness is found only in obedience to God. When he came to the end of his search, Solomon wrote, "This is the end of the matter; all hath been heard; fear God, and keep His commandments; for this is the whole duty of man" (Eccl.12:13). Until we have confidence, from His Word, that we have obeyed our God, we cannot know true happiness. Go back and read those beatitudes in Matt.5:1-12. There is the basis of true happiness! "Blessed" can be translated "happy" in every instance. If you truly want a Happy New Year in 2010 then allow God to make it that by fully obeying Him. Clem Thurman- Gospel Minutes, Vol.56, No.52, Dec.26, 2007. (updated to fit 2010 -t.t). -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091227/6fab213d/attachment-0001.html From richard at thetford.dot5hosting.com Sun Dec 27 22:43:42 2009 From: richard at thetford.dot5hosting.com (Richard Thetford) Date: Sun, 27 Dec 2009 21:43:42 -0700 Subject: [Biblemat] Walking in the Light (12/27/09) Message-ID: <001301ca8778$b6031100$22093300$@dot5hosting.com> San Juan Logo PNG.png Walking in the Light "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105) December 27, 2009 www.thetfordcountry.com --- INFORMATION Walking in the Light is published each week by Richard Thetford. You are encouraged to visit the web site at www.thetfordcountry.com and then click on "Richard's Home Page" to view numerous sermons, articles, radio program scripts, class material and other information. If you know of someone who would like to subscribe to "Walking in the Light," please send their name and e-mail address to richard at thetfordcountry.com. In addition, if you want to advertise for "churches looking for preachers" and "preachers looking for churches," go to www.thetfordcountry.com and click on the appropriate link. Fill out the easy form and your listing will be uploaded to the web site within 48 hours (usually the same day). --- CONTENTS "The Christian's Growth in the Lord" (Richard Thetford) "The Worm in the Apple" (Selected) "The Yoke Really is Easy" (Pulpit Helps) SENTENCE SERMONS --- THE CHRISTIAN'S GROWTH IN THE LORD Richard Thetford Once an individual puts on Christ in baptism, they should be determined to please God in all aspects of their life. But before one can begin to grow, one must first possess an attitude that says; "I want to grow as a Christian in order to be pleasing to God." We are going to be discussing several areas in which a Christian is to grow in the Lord, but before one can grow, one must have a good attitude, WANTING to do God's will in all things. We all must understand that it is not so much what a person knows or is able to do or possess, but rather the question is what kind of person am I. Perhaps all of us have witnessed only too often an ugly spirit or attitude that has brought great harm. A bad attitude can spoil almost any situation. On the other hand, a good attitude can enhance, or make right almost any adverse condition that may exist. Therefore, in order for a Christian to grow in the Lord, one must first have a good attitude, wanting to be a faithful child of God in ALL things. In What Are We to Grow? The apostle Peter writes that Christians are to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ..." (2 Pet 3:18). Many Christians are not grounded in Christ mainly because they simply have not gained knowledge of our Lord. There is only one way in which we can gain knowledge and that is through study (Rom 10:17; 2 Tim 2:15). If Christians would devote time to study and meditation of God's Word, then they will be able to grow so as to be pleasing to God. We are also instructed in 2 Thessalonians 1:3 and 2 Corinthians 10:15 to grow in faith. The more faith that we have the stronger our love and devotion to God is. A Christian must strive to grow in knowledge and faith. How Can We Grow? Before we can grow in order to be pleasing to God, we must FIRST put away worldliness. We must truly be transformed from our old ways to a life of service and devotion to Christ (Rom 12:1-2). Wickedness, guile, hypocrisies, envies, evil speakings, etc. must be done away with (1 Pet 2:1). We cannot begin to grow while holding on to worldly appetites! We can only grow when we are determined (right attitude) to learn of God. We must "desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby" (1 Pet 2:2). The Christian that desires to please God wants to know everything they possibly can about what God expects of them (1 Cor 3:2; Heb 5:13-14). It is through the knowledge of His Word that we also learn to speak the truth concerning His Word. The apostle Paul writes; "but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head--Christ" (Eph 4:15-16). The more we know then the more confidence we gain in teaching others the TRUTH of His Word. Unto What Shall We Grow? Every Christian should desire to grow in the Lord in order to obtain salvation. Although we will never be perfect, we can certainly strive to be perfect (Matt 5:48). Eternal salvation will only be realized by those individuals that are devoted to serving and obeying God. The Christian knows that their body is a holy temple. Paul writes "in whom the whole building, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit" (Eph 3:21-22). Therefore Christians know that they will treat their body in a way which is pleasing to God. The body (the temple), grows into subjection to God's will as the Christian with a good attitude understands that their body is the temple and that the body and the spirit is God's. "Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's" (1 Cor 6:19-20). In order to glorify God in our body we must grow to understand that we cannot do anything to our body that would be displeasing to God (Matt 5:16). Why Should We Grow? We must possess an attitude of growth in the Lord because it is commanded (2 Pet 3:18). Our growth in faith and love causes thanksgiving. Paul wrote: "We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other" (2 Thes 1:3). When we grow in the Lord we become strong. The more we learn, the more we are able to receive the solid food of the gospel of Christ (1 Cor 3:2). May we all possess an attitude that says "I want to be pleasing to God in all things." I want to encourage all of us to constantly examine ourselves to ensure that we are doing all things according to the will of God (2 Cor 13:5). If so, then we are continuing to grow in the Lord. --- THE WORM IN THE APPLE Selected How does a worm get in the apple? Perhaps you think the worm burrowed in from the outside. No, scientists have discovered that the worm comes from the inside? But how does he get in there? Simple. An insect lays an egg in the apple blossom. Later the worm hatches in the heart of the apple, then eats his way out. Sin, like the worm, begins in the heart and works out through one's thoughts and actions. For this reason David once wrote, "create in me a clean heart, O God" (Psa 51:10). --- THE YOKE REALLY IS EASY Pulpit Helps When we read of Christ asking us to take His yoke upon us, the general view is that we feel He is asking us to carry a burden. It is not so. The yoke is not a burden to the animal that wears it. It is just the opposite. It is to make its burden light. Attached to the oxen in any other way than by a yoke the plow would be intolerable. A yoke is not an instrument of torture; it is an instrument of mercy. It is not meant to give pain, but to save pain. And yet men speak of the yoke of Christ as if it were a slavery. "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light" (Matt 11:28-30). --- SENTENCE SERMONS Great ability without discretion usually comes to a tragic end. We do not need better methods or more money - but we need better men. If you want to hear about the trouble in the church, ask some ungodly person. Giving is grace - not giving is disgrace. People seldom "lose their religion" by a blowout - it's usually a slow leak. Moderation in sin is no more possible than moderation in hanging. --- SERMONS The Thief on the Cross (PPT/PDF Charts and Audio) Where Are the Nine? (PPT/PDF Charts and Audio) www.thetfordcountry.com --- cid:image003.gif at 01C9DCB3.EEF5E980 1414 Hawk Parkway, Unit C Montrose, CO 81401 (970) 626-5558 www.sanjuanchurchofchrist.org MEETING TIMES Sunday Bible Study...........10:00 A.M. Morning Worship..11:00 A.M. Afternoon Worship..2:00 P.M. Wednesday Bible Study........6:30 P.M. (No Wednesday night Bible study November - February) Evangelist/Editor Richard Thetford Home: (970) 626-5558 E-Mail: richard at thetfordcountry.com Web Site: www.thetfordcountry.com --- RICHARD THETFORD 1491 Canyon Drive Ridgway, CO 81432 (970) 626-5558 E-Mail: richard at thetfordcountry.com Web Site: www.thetfordcountry.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091227/cf77b05c/attachment-0001.html -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/gif Size: 69751 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091227/cf77b05c/attachment-0002.gif -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... 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Name: not available Type: image/gif Size: 9271 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091227/cf77b05c/attachment-0003.gif From tedwards at onemain.com Tue Dec 29 09:22:23 2009 From: tedwards at onemain.com (tedwards at onemain.com) Date: Tue, 29 Dec 2009 09:22:23 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] B> Gospel Observer 12/17/09 Message-ID: <4B39CA4F.32532.68553A@localhost> -------------------- The Gospel Observer "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" (Matt. 28:19,20). -------------------- December 27, 2009 -------------------- Contents: 1) The Organization of the Church (Earl Kimbrough) 2) News & Notes --------------------- -1- The Organization of the Church by Earl Kimbrough The Lord designed the church according to his own will and circumscribed it with certain distinguishing marks which are clearly set forth in the Scriptures. No one of these essential features of the church is more important than any other. "All things" must be "according to the pattern" (Heb. 8:1-5; 1 Pet. 4:11). But history shows that no part of the divine plan for the church has been abused with greater destructive consequences to the whole than what is generally called the organization of the church. This was the initial error that paved the road to Papal Rome and the most significant failure of the Protestant Reformation. It was also the opening wedge that divided the churches of the Restoration movement and led the larger portion of them into denominationalism. The Lord's design for the organization of his church, therefore, must remain a major concern of those who desire to "speak where the Bible speaks" and to "be silent where the Bible is silent." The Scope of Church Organization The organization of the church cannot be understood without recognizing that the word "church" is used in two different senses in the Scriptures. The universal church is the spiritual body of Christ composed of all the redeemed souls over whom Christ reigns as head (Eph. 5:23-27; 1:22-23). However, the universal church has no organization on earth. Each member of the body is united with Christ, but this union is affected and maintained by individual submission to his will. The apostles were set in the church as special representatives of Christ with authority to make known the Lord's will for the present age, but their concurrent reign with Christ is through the New Testament (Matt. 19:28; 2 Tim. 3:17-18). A careful search of the Scriptures reveals no trace of any earthly head or hierarchy over the church. Neither is there evidence of any organization within the body of Christ on a national or regional basis. However, the New Testament does show the organization of Christians on a very limited and clearly defined level to carry out certain collective responsibilities. This is the local church made up of the disciples at a particular place who meet, work and worship together according to the will of Christ. This use of the word "church" pertains to separate local congregations, such as, "the church that was at Antioch" and "the church of the Thessalonians" (Acts 13:1; 1 Thes. 1:1). The independence and autonomy of the local church is exemplified in the New Testament. Each congregation had its own local membership. For instance, "the church of God which is at Corinth" consisted only of the saints in that city (1 Cor. 1:2). Each congregation maintained control of its local fellowship. It received faithful brethren into its number, retained spiritual oversight of its members (through its elders), and expelled those who refused to walk uprightly according to the truth (Acts 9:26-28; 11:26; 1 Cor. 5:13; Rev. 2:14-16). Each congregation also performed its own divinely assigned mission. The Divine Order in the Local Church "All things" pertaining to the church were subject to Christ (Eph. 1:22-23). This, naturally, embraces everything that concerns the local church, as well as everything that concerns the universal church. The apostles' teaching was bound on all congregations equally. Paul reminded the Corinthians of his ways in Christ which, as an apostle, he taught "everywhere in every church" (1 Cor. 4:17). His instructions to one church were ordained "in all the churches" (1 Cor. 7:17; cf. 14:31-34). Thus, there was uniformity in all the churches. The apostolic order established in one congregation is necessarily the order established in all others. This was not only true in the first century, it is also true now, for what the apostles bound on the church then is still bound (Matt. 18:18). The organization the Lord designed for the local church is very simple. Each congregation is self-governed under the spiritual care of men divinely chosen to oversee its membership. These men are known as "elders" or "presbyters" (Acts 20:17; 1 Tim. 4:14). The word indicates that those to whom the Holy Spirit applies it are mature Christians, experienced in the faith. But other descriptive terms are also used to designate the elders of a local church. They are called "bishops" or "overseers" to show the nature of their work (Acts 20:28; Titus 1:5-7). They are also called "pastors" or "shepherds" indicating the manner of their oversight (Eph. 4:11). Their service as shepherds is further seen in the pastoral word rendered "tend" or "feed" -- "tend the flock of God" (1 Peter 5:2). It means "to act as a shepherd" (W.E. Vine). Soon after Barnabas and Paul established the churches of south-central Asia Minor, they "ordained (appointed for) them elders in every church" (Acts 14:23). Four important facts are stated or implied in this action. (1) Each church had its own elders. (2) The elders of each church were plural in number. (3) The elders within each church were equal in authority. (4) The eldership of each church was independent of and on an equality with the elders of all other churches. These facts are in harmony with and are underscored by all else the Scriptures teach concerning elders. No congregation that respects these facts will have any problem in regard to the organization of the church, provided the men chosen to serve as elders are qualified for the work. Elders who function as the Lord intends will be on guard for the spiritual welfare of the flock over which they have responsibility (Acts 20:28). They will "take care of the church of God" (1 Tim. 3:5). They will "rule well" and "keep watch over" the souls entrusted to them (1 Tim. 5:17; Heb. 13:17). They will uphold and defend the word of God, keeping the church in the way of truth and protecting it from false teaching (Titus 1:9; Acts 20:29-31). Moreover, they will perform their duties without "lording it over" those allotted to them, but will prove to be "examples to the flock" (1 Peter 5:2-3). The qualifications for elders make it certain that those who serve as shepherds of the Lord's people are willing and able to do the work to which they are appointed (Cf. 1 Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:5- 9). The elders' oversight begins and ends with the local church. It is limited to the members, work and resources of the congregation in which they serve. The Ephesian elders were shepherds of the flock of God at Ephesus, but they had no responsibility over the flock at Smyrna, nor any other church in Asia or the world (Acts 20:28). Peter's exhortation to elders also limits their oversight to "the flock of God among you" (1 Peter 5:1-4). What more could be said to more clearly ascribe the bounds of elders' authority? In addition to elders, the Lord provides for deacons in the local church to assist the elders. Paul's letter to the Philippians shows that deacons were an established order in the congregation with the elders. It is addressed to all the saints at Philippi "with (including) the bishops and deacons" (Phil. 1:1). Evangelists in the church are charged with preaching and teaching the word of God (2 Tim. 4:1-5; Acts 8:5; 11:26; 20:20; 21:8). But evangelists are not in charge of the church. Like deacons, teachers and other members of the congregation, they serve under the oversight of the elders. The Sufficiency of the Lord's Plan The congregational organization the Lord gave for his church is fully sufficient for all governmental details of its work. This sufficiency is obvious from the fact that the organization is exclusive (Cf. 2 Peter 1:3). If more were needed, more would have been given. No other order can exist by apostolic authority. Nothing else is "according to the pattern." Nothing more may be set up "in the name of Christ" (Col. 3:17). Anything added to the Lord's plan for congregational independence carries us beyond the teaching of Christ and into that realm where there is no fellowship with God (2 John 9- 10). The Lord's exclusive plan necessarily eliminates any means for the function of the universal church, whether by a confederation of churches or an intermediate agency to act for the churches. The Lord's church needs no outside organizations or inter- congregational arrangements through which to work in evangelism, edification, benevolence, discipline, or anything else that concerns its mission. Conscientious elders who understand Paul's instructions to their Ephesian counterparts in Acts 20 will not delegate any part of their work to any other elders or institution on earth. The first century churches operated only in their separate congregational capacity. The local church "sounded forth" the word of the Lord in its own and adjacent regions (1 Thes. 1:8). It supported preachers at home and abroad, sending directly to their need (1 Cor. 9:14; Acts 11:22; Phil. 4:15- 16). It provided relief for its indigent members and when sister churches were destitute it sent directly to their necessity (Acts 4:32-35; 11:27-30). It was also fully sufficient in edification (Acts 20:28). Nothing -- no board, ecclesiastical order, or intermediate eldership -- stood between the church and its work. None was needed; none was allowed. The Danger of Disregarding the Lord's Plan More than a century ago, David Lipscomb wrote, "We sincerely and earnestly believe all organized bodies for religious purposes outside of, within, above or below the congregations of the Lord are sinful and treasonable" (Gospel Advocate, Jan. 18, 1870, pp. 27-28). Sin is the violation of God's law; and treason, specifically, is a betrayal of trust or a breach of faith. Disregard for the independence and autonomy of the local church, whether by overt institutionalism or weakly camouflaged under a "sponsoring church," violates God's law and is a breach of faith. This is exactly what institutionalists are guilty of and Lipscomb used well-chosen words when he labeled their practice "sinful and treasonable." There is other danger also inherent in institutionalism. Once brethren overstep the bounds of divine authority to work through organizations outside their own congregation, they open the floodgate to further apostasy. It is only a matter of time until such churches lose their New Testament distinctiveness and blend smoothly into the denominational landscape. Those who try to justify institutionalism will pervert the word of God to achieve their purpose. This is seen in the futile attempt to find a missionary society in the Great Commission, a "sponsoring church" in Acts 11:27-30, and a benevolent board in James 1:27. Another real, though less apparent, danger is found in the difficulty men have in ever returning to the simplicity of the apostolic order once they have tasted the intoxicating power and glory of institutionalism. "Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus that are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons" (Phil. 1:1). This is the only organization the Lord gave for his church. Each congregation is an independent body with its own elders, deacons and other members. Each does its own work under its own elders. There are five good reasons why this plan should be explicitly followed by every church of Christ on earth. (1) It is authorized by Christ. (2) It is simple and practical. (3) It is all-sufficient for what is needed by way of organization. (4) It is a strong force in holding the disciples of Christ to the right course in all matters of teaching, faith and practice. (5) Disregarding it will end in spiritual ruin. As the lamented James M. Pickens expressed it so long ago, "If the door is set ajar for innovations, how shall we determine where it shall stand or that it should not stand wide open, and that continually?" (The Christian Monthly, Aug., 1870, p. 233.) -- Via Searching the Scriptures, August 1978, Volume 19, Number 8 --------------------- -2- News & Notes Clay Leggit (Donna Gail St. Clair's uncle) will be having surgery this coming Thursday for pancreatic cancer. Let those of us who are Christians be remembering him in prayer. --------------------- 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). -------------------- CHURCH OF CHRIST 201 Rushing Road (at the Hampton Inn), Denham Springs, Louisiana 70726 Sunday services: 9:15 AM (Bible class); 10 AM & 4 PM (worship) evangelist/editor: Tom Edwards (225) 667-4520 tedwards1109 at gmail.com http://home.onemain.com/~tedwards/go Directions: Take the Denham Springs exit (exit 10) off of I-12. At the end of the exit ramp, turn north. Go about a stone's throw to Rushing Road. (You'll see a Starbucks, Circle K, and two other gas stations; with each on each corner.) Turn left on Rushing Road, and go less then 0.3 of a mile. Hampton Inn will be on the right. We assemble in its meeting room, which is very close to the reception counter. -------------------- -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091229/ed7b06cc/attachment-0001.html From tulsa33 at juno.com Tue Dec 29 09:59:35 2009 From: tulsa33 at juno.com (tulsa33) Date: Tue, 29 Dec 2009 10:59:35 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] Gospel Truths coming to Web January 1 Message-ID: <20091229.080035.13671.138341@mailpop11.vgs.untd.com> Gospel Truths on the Web beginning January 1 ? After twenty years with the paper edition of Gospel Truths, I am going to the Web (gospeltruths.net) . The first issue of Gospel Truths will be placed on the web at the beginning of each month. We hope you will read and invite your friends to read this journal every month. Plus, there will be a number of other features on this Web-site. Remember, it all begins January 1. J. T. Smith ____________________________________________________________ Criminal Lawyer Criminal Lawyers - Click here. http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2141/c?cp=ShUE6pgg6QeuVCY5y0TbbwAAJ1AqWLnxUT_Og0R1xxm43-TkAAYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADNAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAiFgAAAAA= -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091229/93e358cb/attachment.html From kerux at bellsouth.net Tue Dec 29 10:13:05 2009 From: kerux at bellsouth.net (Kent Heaton) Date: Tue, 29 Dec 2009 11:13:05 -0500 Subject: [Biblemat] A>The Last Day (Kent Heaton) Message-ID: The Last Day (Kent Heaton) The last day of the year is a day to remind us that everything comes to an end. Each year has a beginning and an end as does each month, each week and each day. The new year is only the beginning of twelve months that end on December 31. Life is expressed in the cycle of time that has a beginning and has an end. "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace" (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8). As we begin to reflect upon the new horizon of 2010 we should also pause to reflect the sober reminder that we are mortal creatures that have a beginning and at least on this earth - an end. Yet the irony of this message is that we still exist beyond death. Our ending here is a beginning in eternity and upon the frail time of space we share in life eternity depends. "It is appointed unto men once to die, and after this cometh judgment" (Hebrews 9:27). "This is the end of the matter; all hath been heard: fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every hidden thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil" (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14). The last day of the year is a day of reflection. It reminds us that time does not stand still. We grow older with each passing year and draw nearer to our eternal abode. Paul looked at his life near its end and said, "For I am already being offered, and the time of my departure is come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith: 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 only to me, but also to all them that have loved his appearing" (2 Timothy 4:6-8). He looked back on his life and forward to the life to come. The apostle had confidence in his life in service to Christ. His last day was fast approaching and he could see the fight coming to an end; the race nearly completed; the maturing of his faith in God as nearly complete. Can we have the same hope as Paul on this last day? He also looked forward to a new day coming. This hope was built upon faithful service to the Kingdom of God. Paul knew that his last day on earth would propel him to that eternal home with God. What vision to live with faith in this life that will guide us across the final day. The final day for the Christian is the beginning of the eternal day with the Father. The last day of mortality will be the beginning of our immortal joy. "Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. But when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory" (1 Corinthians 15:51-54). The last day is a day of victory. It will be a time when all the grace of God is revealed and the joy of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ will be revealed in the resurrection. The last day of this year should be a time of victory to see how we have grown in our faith toward God - looking forward to that final last day of our life; whether in death or in the glorious coming of our Savior. December 31 - the last day! What a great day to reflect and enjoy the blessings of God. The new year gives opportunity to strive with more zeal to live for the last day. It will not be a day of sadness but a day of awakening. The last day is a day that will last in eternity when we are found faithful. Kent Heaton 206 NE Fourth Avenue Trenton, Florida 32693 (H) 352-463-6916 (O) 3793 (C) 352-283-3889 www.trentonchurchofchrist.com Audio Sermons Available www.northfloridabiblecamp.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091229/5c6817e0/attachment.html From robertwater at gmail.com Mon Dec 28 06:08:51 2009 From: robertwater at gmail.com (Robert Waters) Date: Mon, 28 Dec 2009 06:08:51 -0600 Subject: [Biblemat] WANTED: A CHURCH THAT IS CONTENT TO BE A CHURCH? Message-ID: Greetings, Here is an article by John Waddey that is timely and needed. Robert Waters *WANTED: A CHURCH THAT IS CONTENT TO BE A CHURCH?* by John Waddey Our generation has seen a revolution of behavior. I speak not of particular wicked deeds, but a refusal to accept and fulfill the roles in which people find themselves. We see students who don't want to learn and don't care to complete their education. There are citizens who don't care to function as citizens. There are employees who don't want to work. They want a pay check but they do not care to work. There are those who attend church but do not want to receive serious spiritual instruction. There are preachers who evidently don't want to preach and churches that don't care to function as churches should. It is the last three of these categories that should concern God's people. God designed the assemblies of his church to provide important blessings to his children. They are first of all an occasion for worshiping the Creator and remembering his death and resurrection (Acts 20:7). They provide a time for teaching and instruction in the way of Christ (Acts 20: 7). They are a time for rich Christian fellowship and encouragement and opportunities to teach and exhort one another (Col. 3:16). They are a time for confessing our sins and receiving forgiveness. They are occasions for being refreshed and renewed spiritually so we can go forth and live our faith in the coming days. But some come to worship expecting to be entertained, or to show off their talents, others come for food for their bellies or to joke and have a fun time with their buddies. Some see the church as a place for finding a ball team or an exercise program. Some see worship assemblies as a time to display their fine wardrobes, coiffures or nice jewelry. Faithful Christians gather for worship for the right reasons. Why should a man take a position as a preacher when he doesn't want to do the work involved in that position (II Tim. 4:5)? Rather than prepare his sermons and classes, he prefers to play with his friends. For some it is golf, for others it is fishing, etc. that consume their time. Rather than evangelizing and seeking the lost some prefer to continue their education at the nearby university, or to chit-chat with friends. Even when the church gathers, rather than proclaim God's word, they prefer to tell stories and entertain their audiences with jokes and humor. Why did such men accept the position of minister if they do not love to and want to teach God's blessed word? Neither God nor man admires a fellow who pursues a career as a preacher, just to make a living. Jesus had only reproof for religious hirelings (John 10:12-13). We now see the strange phenomena of congregations that don't want to be churches that function as God designed them. Rather than centers of worship, they are entertainment centers. Rather than a base for evangelistic outreach, they are community clubs for comfortable Christians. Rather than being occasions for Bible study and spiritual growth, classes are occasions for discussions of psychology, social issues and current events Rather than redemption centers, they are places for exercise, recreation, feasting and fun. Christians need a church where they can draw nigh to God (Jas. 4:8) and worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:24). They need a congregation where they can receive instruction in both the milk and meat of God's Word (Heb. 5:12-14). The world about us desperately needs congregations whose elders and preachers just wants them to be worshiping, teaching, edifying, soul-winning churches such as we read of in the Bible. It needs preachers who want to do the work of an evangelist as described in the Word of God (II Tim. 4:5); The world needs us to give them a demonstration of Christianity (Matt. 5:13-16). Our neighbors who know not Christ desperately need God's people to share with them the good news of salvation (Mark 16:15-16). Of what kind of church are you a part? What kind of preacher do you have? Or if you preach, what kind of preacher are you? -John Waddey ** * * *TotalHealth.bz* *Focus On Truth * -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091228/682e8dd2/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Wed Dec 30 04:26:12 2009 From: J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com (J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com) Date: Wed, 30 Dec 2009 05:26:12 EST Subject: [Biblemat] A) NOTHING BUT THE NEWS Message-ID: Brethren and Friends, Jim Sasser here. A very good Wednesday morning to each and every one. May God bless you and yours. It is good to be back with you by way of my computer this morning. Here is article from my files: NOTHING BY THE NEWS We are rapidly headed for a new year and the start of a new decade. Do you recall all the disaster stories that circulated when we left the 1900's bhind? NOw, here we are ten years later and the world keeps spinning. In the last year we have elected our first African-American president. We have seen the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan continue. And, for those of us who are Christians, we continue to see the war with Satan go on. So, for a few moments let's consider the news of today, especially as it partains to faith. THE BAD NEWS: -- It is easy to look around and get discourag- ed at what is happening in our world. We continue to witness the deterioration of our values and standards. From our televis- ion shows and movies to the internet and even education, we see that our traditional values seem to be waning away. We live more and more in a society that uses few things in black and white, right and wrong. All things seem to be relative, whether it is sexual mores or integrity and honesty or simple kindness and courtesy. It is easy, even as believers, to be discouraged. However, this should not surprise us. God has repeatedly warned that this world will get worse, not better: "And just as they did nto see fit to acknowledge God any longer, God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper, being filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, evil; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, malice; they are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, arrogant, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, without understanding, untrust- worthy, unloving, unmerciful, and, although they know the ordin- ance of God, that those who practice such things are worthy of death, they not only do the same, but also give hearty approval to those who practice them" (Rom. 1:28-32). Satan continues to be the rulere of this world (1 Jno. 5:19) and that won't change in 2010. We just have to accept this fact, and do our best in the face of Satan's dominance. THE GOOD NEWS: -- As bleak as it can look at times, there is good news. God has never fought a battle He did not win, and that is true in His battle with Satan in the coming year. God will eventually come out on top. Remember and hold on to what Jesus promised: "Upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades shall not overpower it" (Matt. 16:18). Jesus, and His church will not lose the battle. Don't get too discourag- ed -- if you are a Christian, you are on the winning side. And no matter how bad things look, we can go forward confident in the victory God has already given us. "But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abound- ing in the workd of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Cor. 15:57,58). THE CHALLENGING NEWS: -- So, as we head into a new year and a new decade, let's face the hard news of the coming years. We, as God's people, must rededicate ourselves to participating in the victory we have been given. "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age" (Matt. 28:18-20). Our task remains unchanged. We need to take the good news to our friends, our neighbors, and even to our enemies. And, each of us must continue the battle in our own lives. We an never assume that just because we have been given the assurance of victory, that we can't fail or mess up. "Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him, and he with Me. He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne" (Rev. 3:20,21). If we can stay faithful, God will insure the victory. And, if you are not yet a Christian, the challenge is simple. Jesus stands at the door even now, knock- ing on your door in the hope that you will let Him in. Make the new year a triumph. Repent, be baptized into Christ and enjoy the victory which is found in the Lord, Jesus Christ. ----------------- David Thurman in Gospel Minutes, Vol. 58, No. 52, Dec. 25, 2009. (Yes, there have been and continue to be great changes made in and through our seat of government. Changes that are going to make things very different from the freedoms we have known and shrared for over 200 years. This Administration and the maj- ority of the Congress are taking over everything they can in order to control every aspect possible of our lives. Such is be- coming more and more a dictatorial way of judging the populat- ion of this nation. So, the life of a Christian might become very hard to sustain, and will take a great amount of faith and confid- ence to continue as we should and as we have been allowed to do down through the years. We understand that our God rules in the affairs of men and puts those whom He desires in posts of authority. And as it was said of Esther, how do you know but what you have been put into your position as Queen of this great land for such a time as this? So, it is with Christians of our day and time, how do we know but that we are placed in this land for such a time as this? We can make a difference regard- less of the political conditions and changes that come our way. Things might become very difficult to sustain Christianity as we have been able to do in the past. But we must do the very best that we can in the Army of the Lord to hold on to and practice our faith that is required of us. May God help us to stand firm in whatever conditions come our way. Christians have done so in the past, from the beginning of the kingdom of the Lord among us. May we continually take a position upon our knees in prayer to our Lord. Living, teaching, worshiping, and praying to Him to sustain our faith. JWS). -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.biblematters.net/pipermail/biblemat/attachments/20091230/bbe19f48/attachment-0001.html From J5827Sasser at wmconnect.com Wed Dec 3