Article - You Cannot Get to the Blood Without Water
After Jesus anointed the blind man’s eyes with clay, He commanded the blind man to go and wash in the pool of Siloam so that his eyes would be opened (John 9:1-15). Washing in the water to be healed was not necessary or essential for healing until Jesus commanded that it be done. The “works of God” were revealed in this man because he obeyed what Jesus commanded – otherwise he would have remained blind. So also, Jesus wants to heal us of our spiritual blindness (sin) through His blood (Luke 4:18; Ephesians 1:7). Jesus commands us to “Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16). Having “our bodies washed with pure water” was not necessary or essential for the cleansing of our sins and the salvation of our souls until Jesus commanded that it be done (Mark 16:16; John 3:5; Hebrews 10:22). The “working/operation of God” (removing all your past sins) will not occur in your life until you obey Jesus and are buried with Him in baptism (Colossians 2:11-12; Hebrew 5:9). Otherwise, you are still blind – you are still in your sins. Consider these Scriptures: Jesus’ blood was shed “for the remission of sins” (Matthew 26:28). You are to “repent and be baptized for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38). Jesus purchased the church “with His own blood” (Acts 20:28). Jesus cleanses the church with the “washing of water” (Ephesians 5:26). Jesus’ blood cleanses your conscience (Hebrews 9:14). Water baptism “now saves us” and is “the answer of a good conscience toward God” (1 Peter 3:20-21).
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Article - Repent And Be Baptized For The Remission Of Sins (Part 2)
Several years ago Richard Heatherly (Baptist “Pastor”) wrote several articles under the title “In What Sense Does Baptism Remit Sins?” in a sales paper out of Fayetteville, TN (read part 1). Instead of giving the common Baptist response - that baptism has absolutely nothing to do with salvation, Richard correctly states that Acts 2:38 “clearly relates baptism to the remission of sins” and that the scriptures addressing the topic of baptism show one “how to be forgiven.” However, when Richard further explains that the remission of sins obtained in Acts 2:38 is merely symbolic and ceremonial, he provides no proof and departs from the context of Acts 2:36-38. The Jews on the day of Pentecost wanted to know what THEY needed to DO to obtain LITERAL remission of sins. The two imperatives of Peter were: Repent and be baptized. The two imperatives Richard mentions in his articles: Repent and believe. Yet in another one of Richard’s articles he only mentions one imperative: “by faith in Christ’s atonement alone.” Peter said that both repentance and baptism were for the remission of sins. When I pointed this out to Richard in one of my articles, he said that such an observation was “a very shallow theology.” The order of Peter’s sermon was: 1) repent; 2) be baptized; 3) remission of sins. The order of Richard’s sermon is: 1) repent (and believe); 2) remission of sins; 3) be baptized. Those who gladly received Peter’s word were baptized (Acts 2:41). Those who gladly receive Richard’s word may or may not decide to be baptized, yet Richard finds it essential to wear the Baptist name. Whose sermon will you follow?
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Article - Repent And Be Baptized For The Remission Of Sins (Part 1)
Several years ago Richard Heatherly (“Pastor” of a Baptist Church) wrote an article in a Fayetteville, Tennessee sales paper in which he boldly admitted that Acts 2:38 “clearly relates baptism to the remission of sins.” I was encouraged by Richard’s willingness to make such an admission as he proceeded to tackle such a controversial topic in a thorough manner. In order for religious people to fulfill God’s command to “speak the same thing,” have “no divisions” (including NO denominations) and “be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment,” we must have an open Bible, an open mind and an open discussion (ignoring one another has accomplished nothing all these years; study Acts 17:11; 18:26 and 1 Corinthians 1:10).
The title of Richard’s article asked, “In What Sense Does Baptism Remit Sins?” Richard’s answer was: metaphorically, symbolically, ceremonially. Do you the reader gather such an idea when you study Acts 2:36-38? After the Jewish audience was accused by Peter of crucifying the Christ, they were cut to the heart and ask the apostles, “What shall we do?” Did the Jews want to know what they needed to do to receive remission of sins symbolically? Or were they seeking literal forgiveness? The two things Peter commanded his audience (and all of us) to do in order to receive the remission of sins were 1) repent and 2) be baptized. Why did Richard not take notice or mention that Acts 2:38 also says repent for the remission of sins? Baptism remits sins in the same way that repentance does (Acts 3:19). For Richard to consistently hold on to his doctrine, he would have to also teach that a sinner repents in order to remit his sins symbolically. If not, why not? (see part 2 for a final analysis of Acts 2:38).
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Article - Social Drinking Is A Sin
Ethyl alcohol is pharmacologically classified as a drug (the depressant, narcotic type). Therefore, whatever position one takes on social drinking would also apply to illegal as well as prescription drugs. In other words, if it is the case that it is morally alright to drink alcohol for pleasure so long as it is in moderation, it logically follows that it would be morally (though not legally) alright to take illegal or prescription drugs for pleasure as long as they are taken in moderation. If not, why not? The Bible never authorizes the use of alcohol (or drugs) for pleasure, much less in moderation. The Bible does, however, authorize the use of alcohol (hence, drugs) for medicinal purposes (1 Timothy 5:23, assuming the wine is fermented). Therefore, social drinking is a sin because (1) it is not authorized by God to be consumed for pleasure (Colossians 3:17); (2) it can cause a brother/sister in Christ to stumble (Romans 14:21); (3) it can harm your body/mind (Proverbs 23:29-35; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20); (4) it leads to other sins such as fornication, contentions & drunkenness (Galatians 5:19-21). Our attitude should be like Timothy’s. He was against alcohol so much that he would not even take it as medicine (1 Timothy 5:23). After all, the Bible does encourage abstinence (Leviticus 10:9; Proverbs 31:4; Luke 1:15). It is best not to even look at the alcoholic beverage (Proverbs 23:31).
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Article - The God of Mercy
“ Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23). Critics of the Bible often picture God as indifferent, unkind and vindictive toward His people. Nothing could be further from the truth about God. The God we read about in the Bible is full of mercy and love towards His creation. Notice several passages of Scripture which teach us about the mercy and love of God.
In the times of the Exodus God was spoken of as being “…merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abo unding in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin” (Exodus 34:6-7). Nehemiah spoke of God as being “Ready to pardon, Gracious and merciful, Slow to anger, Abundant in kindness” (Nehemiah 9:17). Truly, during the Old Testament times God was a merciful and loving God.
In the New Testament times God is also seen as a loving and merciful God. With its fulfillment in the New Testament, the Hebrew writer said: “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more” (Hebrews 8:12). James also reminds us that “The Lord is very compassionate and merciful” (James 5:11). Jesus makes the application to us and says, “Therefore, be merciful as your father also is merciful” (Luke 6:36).
While critics of the Bible will accuse God of being evil and unkind, as one reads the Bible with an open and honest heart he is able to see God as a merciful and loving God. The Psalmist eloquently declared, “But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, Longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth ” (Psalms 86:15). May God help each of us to be a people of mercy and love!
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Article - Just exactly who are the churches of Christ and what do they believe?
“Just exactly who are the churches of Christ and what do they believe?” Let me begin by saying that the churches of Christ are not a part of the reformation movement, or the restoration movement that occurred in America over a century ago. The churches of Christ are not a denomination because the Bible teaches denominationalism and division is a sin (1 Corinthians 1:10-13). Just who are the churches of Christ then?
Who are they? The churches of Christ are trying to be the church of the first century that we read of in the Bible. They were not established by any man, but they were established by Jesus Christ in the first century (Matthew 16:13-18). The churches of Christ have no man made creed (Proverbs 16:25) but strive to follow the Bible only (Colossians 3:17). The churches of Christ have no human leader, such as a pope, cardinal, or head of the church, except for Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:20-22). The churches of Christ are called by a Bible name, not the name of a man or great religious leader (Acts 4:11-12, 1 Corinthians 3:11). In short, the churches of Christ are trying to be the church we read of in the Bible without any man made additions or subtractions (See Revelation 22:18-19).
What do they believe? The fundamental belief of the New Testament church was to do things exactly as Jesus and the Apostles had told them to do (Romans 5:4, 1 Corinthians 4:6). This is what the churches of Christ today believe also. We believe in restoring the New Testament church back to its original state as seen in the Bible. For example, the first century church met on the first day of the week to partake of the Lord’s Supper (Acts 20:7) and the churches of Christ believe this is the same pattern we should follow today (Acts 2:42). In fact, one might wonder where the authority for partaking of the Lord’s Supper on Easter and Christmas is at in the Bible. In addition, in the churches of Christ you will not find mechanical instruments of music to worship God with. We do not have these because they are not commanded in the New Testament. God tells us specifically to sing and make melody in our hearts (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). One might wonder where an example of the New Testament church using instruments is in the Bible. There is no authority for the use of mechanical instruments and we cannot go beyond what is written (1 Corinthians 4:6, Proverbs 30:6). While these are definitely not all the beliefs of the churches of Christ, these are worthy of our consideration.
The churches of Christ are not trying to bind where God has not bound, but we are also not trying to loose where God has not allowed us. We simply want to do what the Bible says and put our faith in God not men.
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Article - Morals: Right and Wrong (part 2)
Consider what our world would be like without morals. If there was no higher purpose in life than to serve one’s own selfish desires, then there would be no difference between a man giving a child candy and a man raping a child. The one would feel accomplished by giving a child candy while the other would feel accomplished by raping a child. According to this faulty reasoning, neither action would be right or wrong – just mere, neutral, even “normal” behavior. If God does not exist, then rape is no more excusable or inexcusable than any other action one may perform. Without God nothing is excusable or inexcusable. It is what it is! However, thanks be to God that there is a universal moral law. Since there is a universal law, there must be a universal Law Giver, namely, God. There can be no other reasonable or logical explanation. Those who disagree must produce answers to the following questions: (1) Is there a universal moral standard? (2) What is the standard? (3) What or who is the source of the standard? (4) Why must every man follow it? The Bible teaches that all humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 2:27; Ecclesiastes 7:29). We are born innocent, "good" and "right" (Deuteronomy 1:39; Isaiah 7:16). “For since the creation of the world 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). One of God’s invisible attributes is His goodness which is seen (to an extent) in ALL mankind (Deuteronomy 6:24; Psalm 89:14; 3 John 1:11). What makes “right” right and “wrong” wrong? God does!
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Article - Morals: Right and Wrong (part 1)
On April 27, 2011 several tornadoes swept through Alabama and surrounding areas killing hundreds, injuring thousands and leaving hundreds of thousands without electricity. Many came together to lend a helping hand - but why? Christians and even atheists would answer, “Because it was the ‘right’ thing to do.” It is evident that right and wrong exists; but from whence do morals come? The person who denies God and His Word as the absolute standard is obligated to explain this universal moral law some other way. The main answer usually given is that either morals eventually “evolved” over time through “natural selection” or man must have thought up morals himself. However, since animals, plants, bacteria, etc. do not have a standard of right or wrong, why must humans have one (for many atheists believe man is little more than advanced animals produced by “evolution”)? Atheists usually define morality as something that “minimizes harm and pain.” But what kind of harm and pain (mental, physical, etc?). For whom should the harm and pain be minimized? Should it be the individual, his family, his friends, his enemies, etc.? If morality arose through man, then morality is man-centered and man-determined. It is completely autonomous; therefore, no one can occupy any moral ground that is higher (or lower) than any other. All actions would neither be right or wrong, but simply mere actions. Since animals, plants and bacteria (living things) do not have a moral standard, yet continue to survive without a moral code, then why can humans (living beings) not survive without a moral code? Why are humans the only living organism that MUST have a moral code to survive? See part 2 for the answer.
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Article - Inward Spiritual Struggles—Good or Bad?
Do you ever feel like you need to do more for the cause of Christ? Does the feeling that you just aren’t everything you need to be ever trouble you? Maybe these feelings are something you struggle with every day. I have a friend who constantly struggles with this problem. He would often get discouraged by the feeling of imperfection and deeply distressed over the fact that he just didn’t feel like he was doing enough in the kingdom. As I thought about his situation and the inward struggle that each of us face, I wondered “Are these feelings of imperfection a good or bad thing”? The more I thought about this matter the more I realized this truth: It’s not the people who have these struggles and feeling of imperfection that I worry about, it’s the ones that don’t that bother me. I know this is correct, for Paul expressed this to the church in Philippi saying, “not that I have already attained” and “not that I have already perfected” or “I do not count myself as apprehended” (Philippians 3:12-14). In essence, Paul was recognizing the fact that all of us face the inward struggles of imperfection and incompetence. And, if we use those feelings correctly they are not bad. How can these feelings help us?
If these feelings of imperfection motivate us to do more, they have been beneficial to us. In view of his own inward struggles Paul said, “I Press on” (Philippians 3:12). Instead of getting discouraged, Paul used his inward struggle as a motivating factor. As one faces these struggles, maybe a little introspection would be in order. Paul said, “Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves” (2 Corinthians 13:5). In times like these we should each look for more ways to serve God faithfully and stay busy in the kingdom!
If these feelings of imperfection keep us on our toes, they have been beneficial to us. Maybe these feelings are simply a correct response of a good conscience seeking to help us do more and be more for Christ (1 John 3:20; Romans 2:15). Rather than growing stagnant and becoming lukewarm, they remind us to stay busy and fruitful in the kingdom.
While a person can take these feelings to the extreme and allow them to affect his spiritual life negatively, if used correctly they do have a positive spiritual benefit. Remember, It’s not the people who have these struggles and feeling of imperfection that we should worry about, it’s the ones that don’t that should worry us.
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Article - How Does the New Testament Define “Fellowship”
The New Testament word for “fellowship” is from a Greek word which means “common” (“koinos”, where we get our English word “coin”, which is our “common” currency). There are two aspects to this word. One has to do with physical fellowship and the other has to do with spiritual fellowship. From the standpoint of physical fellowship, all human beings share in common or “partake of” the physical traits of flesh and blood (Hebrews 2:14); but what about the spiritual aspect of fellowship? First and foremost, spiritual fellowship is a “sharing in common” with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 1:9; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Philippians 2:1; 1 John 1:3). In order for one to have the true spiritual “fellowship” mentioned in Ephesians 3:9, he must become a joint-heir, part of the joint-body and a joint-partaker of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel (Ephesians 3:6). In other words, he must obey the gospel and get into the body of Christ in order to become a “partaker” of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8; 1 Corinthians 12:13). According to the doctrine of Christ, the persons who are in fellowship with God are only those who have heard and believed the gospel, repented of their sins, confessed Jesus, been baptized scripturally “for the remission of sins”, been added by the Lord to the church of Christ and are remaining loyal to Jesus and His doctrine (Acts 2:38, 41, 47; Romans 10:9-10, 17; 16:16; 1 John 1:5-10; 2 John 1:9-11; Revelation 2:10). Are you in fellowship with God?
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Article - The Predestination of Calvinism and Presbyterianism is False
Does the Bible teach that everyone’s destiny (where you end up in eternity) has been predetermined randomly and that there is nothing we can personally do about it? Absolutely not! Such false teaching contradicts the following Bible truths: (1) God does not want anyone to perish (therefore, if salvation does not involve our choice, every human would be going to heaven, 1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9); (2) God does not show partiality but is just and fair (therefore, He does not arbitrarily choose who goes to heaven and who goes to hell, Acts 10:34-35); (3) Jesus died for everyone (not just for a few that God randomly chose; otherwise, what purpose would it have served for Jesus to become a human and die for humans whom His Father had already chosen to go to heaven?, 1 Timothy 2:6; Hebrews 2:9); (4) God designed us as creatures of choice (including the choice to work out our own salvation or not, Genesis 2:15-17; Joshua 24:15; Isaiah 7:16; Luke 10:38-42; Acts 6:2-5; 13:45-46; Philippians 2:12); (5) The gospel is to be preached to every human (not just to a select few whom God has already predestined, Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16); (6) The gospel invitation is offered to all (not just to God’s elect, Revelation 22:17); (7) A child of God can choose to fall from God’s grace and be lost for eternity (John 6:67-71; 17:12; Acts 1:25; Galatians 5:4; 2 Peter 2:20-22); (8) God predetermined His Plan of salvation and the Type of persons (chosen qualities) He would save – not random individuals (Acts 4:27-28; 1 Corinthians 2:7-8; Ephesians 1:11-13). If your Church (Presbyterian, etc.) teaches Calvin’s predestination, then leave your Church on the basis of false teaching just as Calvin left his Church (Catholic) and become part of the one church Jesus built (Matthew 16:18; Acts 2:47; Romans 16:16).
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Article - Is Your Name in the Book of Life?
In Revelation 20:12, John speaks of the Judgment Day on which books are opened. One of those books is described as the Book of Life. It is called the Lamb’s Book of Life because Jesus was slain to make redemption available through His shed blood (Revelation 1:5-6; 5:8-13; 7:10; 13:8). It is the Book of eternal Life because only people whose names are written in it will enter into eternal life in the heavenly city (Revelation 7:17; 21:10, 27; 22:3-5). Those whose names are not written in God’s Book will be cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:14-15). Therefore, only the names of God’s children are written in the Book. But even a child of God can have his name taken out of the Lamb’s Book and, hence, forfeit his eternal salvation. For instance, children of God of the Old Testament were taken out of God’s Book because of their impenitent sin and because they turned their hearts away from God (Exodus 32:31-33; Deuteronomy 29:14-15, 18-20). Children of God of the New Testament are taken out of it because they do not overcome/remain faithful and/or they take away from God’s words (Revelation 2:10; 3:5; 22:19). Other names not found in the Book of Life are those who worshiped the sea beast (beast = the Roman government/emperors) and those who defile, cause an abomination or lie (Revelation 13:1, 8; 17:8; 21:27). If you want to be in the Book of Life (and stay in it), you must be a faithful Christian worker who endures to the end (Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:4-5; also read Malachi 3:16-17). Is your name in the Book of Life? Has it been taken out? Examine yourself whether you are in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5).
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Article - The New Testament Will Judge Us in the Last Day
Jesus emphatically states in John 12:48, “He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him – the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day.” When Jesus established His New Testament in the first century, He ceased to judge the world by the Old Testament, including the Jewish feasts, dietary laws and the Sabbaths (Colossians 2:14-17). Yet, there are “Churches” today who still utilize the Old Testament to justify their practices. The Seventh-Day Adventists’ website insists, “God’s unchangeable law REQUIRES the observance of this seventh-day Sabbath as the day of rest, worship, and ministry in harmony with the teaching and practice of Jesus, the Lord of the Sabbath.” Whereas, the New Testament church observed the first day of the week (Sunday) as the day of congregational worship (Acts 2:42; 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2). Many Evangelical “Churches” go to the Old Testament to justify the use of mechanical instruments and choirs in church worship as well as insisting on the congregates giving a tithe (tenth). Whereas, the New Testament only authorizes congregational singing as the type of music in church worship; and the weekly Sunday giving is to be as each member has prospered (Ephesians 5:18-19; Colossians 3:16-17; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2). At one time God did speak to man through the Old Testament prophets, but now He speaks to us by His Son (Hebrews 1:1-2). Therefore, by Jesus’ authority, namely the New Testament, we MUST all speak the same thing with the same mind and judgment by using the New Testament as our final authority in religious matters (1 Corinthians 1:10; Matthew 28:18).
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Article - Enron, WorldCom, & Situation Ethics
History illustrates that some in corporate America have thrown all morals and ethics out the window for the almighty dollar. Beginning with Enron and continuing with WorldCom, we have seen a growth in situation ethics in the business world. Situation ethics teach if the ends justify the means then it is acceptable. For example, if Enron and WorldCom’s CEO and accountants think that a quarterly profit margin will be much higher than what it actually is then it would be justifiable to lie about those numbers to gain stock value. This is a clear example of the influence of Humanism and Utilitarianism on our society. What does the Bible say about all of this scandal and situation ethics?
Our God is not a god of situations but of eternal principles. God does not change and cannot lie (Malachi 3:6, Hebrews 6:18, Titus 1:2). Therefore, God’s nature and law will not change to meet 20th century problems. For example, if murder was wrong when Cain slew his brother Abel then it is still wrong today in principle and in practice. If it is wrong to lie at all (Revelation 21:8) then it is wrong to lie at any time regardless if one thinks the outcome will justify the lying. If something is sinful in principle it is sinful in practice at anytime.
The thinking of situation ethics has had a terrible impact on our society. For example, the Bible teaches that abortion is a sinful practice of killing innocent babies (Proverbs 6:17, Exodus 20:13). Then, we come along 2000 years later and approve of abortion on the grounds of rape. As much as I feel compassion and sympathy for the woman who is raped that does not mean that two wrongs makes a right. As wrong as it was for the rapist to rape the now pregnant woman, it would just as wrong for her to abort that baby. For example, rape is a violation of one’s individual privacy and will. Is not abortion the same thing? When a woman aborts an unborn baby she, in essence, rapes that child of its individual privacy and will to choose to live. Remember, two wrongs do not make a right. Another example of situation ethics in our culture is euthanasia. The Bible teaches that it is wrong to murder others (Exodus 20:13). God is the giver and the taker of life (Hebrews 12:9). Therefore, we cannot come along later and practice death for the aged and ill and be justified. We do not possess the omniscience to see the future. Those who are near death and “terminally ill” may recover and live a healthy life. Physical death is not the worse thing that could happen to someone. We may not always see the benefits of death but they can be numerous. For example, it may cause the dying person to think about his own spiritual life, he may be strengthened in the faith and become closer to God, or others may see his godly example and become Christians. It is time for us to stop playing god for He doesn’t even bend the rules to meet the situation.
Enron and WorldCom thought they could look into the future and justify their lying. They were grossly mistaken and left in a state of financial loss and embarrassment. If we would practice the principle of right at all times life will be much easier for us. May we never give in to the allurement of situation ethics but practice what the Bible teaches in principle.
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Article - Scripturally Speaking: Who is the “Pope”
The word “pope” means “papa” or “father.” Only One is worthy to be called “Holy Father,” namely, God (Matthew 23:9). Only Jesus is worthy to be called “the Head of the Church” (Ephesians 1:22-23), “the Mediator” between God and man (John 14:6; 1 Timothy 2:5) and “the High Priest” (Hebrews 7:22-28). The apostle Peter did not wear a religious title, such as, “pope.” Peter did not preach or practice celibacy. In fact, Peter was married and had a family (Matthew 8:14; 1 Timothy 3:1-6). Jesus gave Peter the keys to the kingdom of heaven, defined as “Christ’s church” (Matthew 16:18-19). Jesus did not build His church on Peter (“Petr-os,” masculine gender of the Greek), but on Peter’s confession that Jesus was the Son of God (“Petr-a,” feminine gender, Matthew 16:15-17). Jesus did not begin His church in Rome, but in Jerusalem (Acts 2:5, 47). Peter presented the keys to those who wanted to be added to the Lord’s church, namely, “Repent and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38). Even though Peter was given the keys to “open” the Lord’s church, he realized he was not any greater than any other man. When Cornelius fell down at his feet and tried to worship him, Peter lifted him up and told him that he also was a mere man like Cornelius (Acts 10:25-26; there was no such thing as clergy or laity). Peter was rebuked by Paul in the presence of all for showing partiality (1 Timothy 5:19-20; Galatians 2:11-14). So, remember that when you pray or confess your sins, be sure to hallow the name of the “Holy Father” by praying to God through Jesus only, for God is the only true “Pope” (Matthew 6:9,12).
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Article - I Will Give You Rest
Some of the most beautiful words of our Lord are recorded in Matthew 11:28-30. Jesus said, “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." This beautiful language appeals to our hearts in minds in several ways.
First, it reminds us of God’s great love for all people. Jesus simply says, “Come to me, all…”. This teaches us that God is not prejudiced or biased toward anyone. God wants all men to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). Jesus tasted death for every man (Hebrews 2:9; 10:12). God sent his own Son to die for the world because He loved us so much (John 3:16).
These words also appeal to us because of the promised rest. Life sometimes wears us out. Paul said, “For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Phi. 1:21). You can almost hear Paul’s desire to depart this life in that text. For those who truly labor for the Lord and are laden with many struggles in this life, the promised rest of Heaven is our hope. The words of the Hebrew writer should also encourage each one of us. He said, “Therefore remains a rest for the people of God” (Hebrews 4:9).
Also, this text portrays great beauty because it expresses the gentleness and compassion of Christ. Jesus was not a militant zealot. He is a kind and compassionate Savior. This is why Jesus said, “Take My Yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart.” The gentleness and compassion of Christ is exhibited best on the cross of Calvary. Jesus was led as a lamb to the slaughter or as a sheep to its sheerer He opened not His mouth (Isaiah 53). Jesus had the power to call down legions of angels, yet he allowed sinful man to bind Him (Matthew 26:53.
Finally, these words strike close to our heart because of the simplicity of following Christ. Jesus assured us, “My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” This portrays to us that being a Christian is something that can and must be done. Paul reminded us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). It does not take a degree in rocket science or a doctorate of divinity to become a child of God. Jesus made it so simple when He said, “He that believes and is baptized will be saved, he that believes not will be condemned” (Mark 16:16). Jesus also taught us the importance of repentance (Luke 13:3) and confession (Matthew 10:32-33). If you are willing to believe in Jesus, repent of your sins, confess him before men, be baptized for the forgiveness of your sins (Acts 2:38) and live faithful to Christ you can have the promised rest Jesus assured us of. May God help us not just to realize the beauty of this text, but to apply its principles to every day life!
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Article - The Christian & Gambling [Part 3]
Eli Bunch was a normal, every day person until he stepped into the life of gambling. It started with just a thirty dollar win. Then, he won 3,000 dollars with only a twenty dollar investment. After this win, things went downhill for Eli & his wife Jody. At the end of three years of gambling, Eli & his wife were in the red over 250,000 dollars. Eventually, Eli lost a good job at a prominent business company, his total retirement and his wife separated from him (Seattle Post, Feb. 2004). If you think Eli is just a sad story that could never happen to you, you’re wrong. Eli started as just a twenty dollar, every once in a blue moon gambler. He ended up a financially bankrupt man with a broken life. We must realize the terrible affect that gambling is having on our societies and on our families in America. Let us again notice a couple of biblical reason why gambling is wrong.
Gambling violates the way a Christian can make money or receive goods. To understand this point, one must first realize that everything he does in life must be authorized by the Bible. Paul said, “Whatever you do in word or deed do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ…” (Colossians 3:17). When we do something in the name of another, we are doing it by their authority (Acts 4:7). Thus, anything a Christian does must be found in the word of God. In the Bible, there are only three ways a person can make money or receive goods. First, a person is authorized to make money by working for it (2 Thes. 3:10). Next, one may sell land or other goods and receive money for them (Acts 4:34; 5:1ff). Finally, one may trade food or other products for money or goods (Genesis 34:10; 42:34). The question now arises. Where does gambling fit into these three ways? It does not. Gambling is not honest work. It is based on chance and luck. Gambling is not a selling/trading of lands or goods. It is actually stealing money from others. When it is all summed up, the Christian can know that gambling is not an authorized method of making money. Therefore, if it is not found in the Word of God, Christians must not take part in it (Revelation 22:18-19). May we strive not to go beyond what is written (1 Corinthians 4:6).
Gambling destroys the biblical design for the family. There are numerous examples of how children are suffering the most from their parents’ gambling problems. For example, In Indiana, a review of the state’s gaming commission records revealed that 72 children were found abandoned on casino premises during a 14-month period. In Louisiana and South Carolina, children died after being locked in hot cars for hours while their caretakers gambled. Another disturbing examples shows the length gamblers will go to support their habits. An Illinois mother was sentenced to prison for suffocating her infant daughter in order to collect insurance money to continue gambling. Doesn’t it turn your stomach when you wonder how many children are being abandoned and left hungry in America so that their parents can go down to the casino and gamble? You think it isn’t happening? You better think again! The family as God designed it is to be a place of love and happiness. It is designed to be a place where father and mother put each other first. It should be a place where children learn what it means to love and the fundamental values of life. When gambling comes into the family, the family starts a downward spiral of destruction. May God help us to speak out against gambling so that we may save the American family from destruction! Truly, Gambling is SIN!!!
This material is copyrighted by The Gospel of Christ and its authors. This information is free to use in its entirety without further consent, however, modifications should not be made without contacting mail@thegospelofchrist.com for permission. Any and all images contained herein are believed to be free for all distribution and content.
Article - Christian Walk And Worship
Prior to becoming Christians, the Ephesians walked “according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air”, but after becoming Christians they were to “walk as children of light”, producing the fruit of the Spirit and no longer having fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness (Ephesians 2:1-3; 4:17-19; 5:8-14). This meant that they were no longer to be intoxicated with (fermented) wine (representing wasteful, fleshly lusts; compare James 1:21); but instead, they were to continue to be filled to full capacity “in spirit/Spirit” (that is, in spiritual matters and/or by God’s Spirit, Acts 2:38; 5:32; Romans 7:4-6; 8:5-17). Walking “in spirit/Spirit” includes worshiping together with fellow Christians “in spirit” and in truth (John 4:23-24; 1 Corinthians 14:15), whether it is during the first-day-of-the week worship (Acts 2:42; 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2) or outside the Sunday worship assembly (Acts 16:25). Paul makes it clear in Ephesians 5:18-21 that Christians who walk worthily and are truly filled with God’s spirit/Spirit are to SPEAK (which excludes humming, clapping, playing, stomping, making instrumental sounds with the voice, etc.) TO ONE ANOTHER (which excludes choirs, duets, solos, etc.) IN PSALMS AND HYMNS AND SPIRITUAL SONGS (which are multiple words emphasizing the same idea, namely, spiritual songs; thus excluding secular songs; compare Ephesians 2:1; 5:2; 6:10), SINGING AND MAKING MELODY (which are multiple words emphasizing the same idea, namely, singing; thus excluding playing a mechanical instrument; compare Ephesians 3:17; 6:13-14, 14-15) IN YOUR HEART TO THE LORD, GIVING THANKS…TO GOD (which excludes singing spiritual songs as entertainment; instead it is to be for the purpose of praise, and edification: Colossians 3:16), SUBMITTING TO ONE ANOTHER IN FEAR OF GOD (compare, Philippians 2:12-13). Those who have heard God’s word, believed in Jesus (Ephesians 1:13), repented of their old walk of life (Ephesians 4:20-23) and have been sanctified and cleansed “with the washing of water” (Ephesians 5:26; Revelation 1:5; Acts 22:16) are to continue to be “filled in spirit/Spirit” by singing praises to God with fellow Christians without the accompaniment of mechanical instruments. May we always worship God His way and not ours as we walk in the light as Jesus is in the light, fellowshipping with one another (1 John 1:5-7).
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Article - Churches of Christ & Modern Day Miracles
Why do churches of Christ not believe in modern day miracles? Without a doubt, the subject of miracles is a very confusing subject to many. With such a miracle-frenzy sweeping our religious world, why do churches of Christ not believe in modern-day miracles? Let me offer two basic reasons.
First, the Bible teaches that miracles were to come to an end with the completion of the Bible. The purpose of miracles in the first century was to confirm the truth of God’s Word (Mark 16:20; Hebrews 2:3-4). Miracles were never for physical gratification alone. Paul had the power to heal Trophimus, yet he left him in Miletus sick because miracles were not for physical gratification alone. (2 Timothy 4:20). The premiere passage that teaches miracles have ended is 1 Corinthians 13:8-10. Paul states, “Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.” In this passage Paul teaches prophecies, tongue-speaking, and miraculous knowledge will come to an end when that which is perfect comes. We must determine what the “perfect” is. The word for perfect in the original language carries the idea of complete or absolute. In the Bible there are only four things that are perfect: God, Christ, the Holy Spirit and God’s Word. Of these four perfect items, God (Matthew 1:21), Christ (John 1:1-4) and the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4ff) have already come by the time Paul wrote 1 Corinthians. The only thing left to come is the “perfect law of liberty” (James 1:25). Therefore, Paul is saying that when the perfect law of liberty is completed (perfected) that which is partial (prophecy, tongue-speaking and miraculous knowledge) will end. Dear friend, the Bible does not teach miracles still exist today.
Also, churches of Christ do not believe in modern-day miracles because we do not see any genuine miracles happening today. These are the kinds of miracles we read of in the Bible: a man is raised from the dead (John 11), a lame man walks instantaneously (Acts 3), blind people are given their sight immediately (Mark 10:49-52), a man’s ear is attached back to his head automatically (Luke 22:50-51). Dear friend, you must admit these kinds of miracles are not happening today. As I say these things, please do not think that in the churches of Christ we do not believe in the power of prayer. We believe God can heal people through prayer and providence (James 5:13-15). In His time and way God will heal people, but people no longer have the power to do biblical miracles. Why is it that not one miracle worker can go down to the cemetery today and raise a dead person? Because that power no longer exist for us!
In a day and age when all people can seem to think about is miracles and the Holy Spirit, maybe we should start turning our attention to the product of the Holy Spirit—The Word of God (John 16:13). Instead of getting in a fizzle about miracles today, Christians need to be fired up for the Words of the Holy Spirit (Jeremiah 20:9). May God help us to study to show ourselves approved (2 Timothy 2:15).
This material is copyrighted by The Gospel of Christ and its authors. This information is free to use in its entirety without further consent, however, modifications should not be made without contacting mail@thegospelofchrist.com for permission. Any and all images contained herein are believed to be free for all distribution and content.
Article - The Christian & Gambling [Part 2]
Gambling is becoming one of the most highly addictive and destructive problems our nation is facing. For example, studies show that in 2001 the “gross revenues from gambling were $68.7 billion — more money than Americans spent on music, movies, spectator sports, video games and theme parks combined”(Minnesota Department of Mental Health)! If we think gambling is not a problem that we have to worry about, we better wake up! The National Council on Problem Gambling reported in March 2003 that over 80 percent of U.S. adults have reportedly gambled at least once in the past year. A recent study by the National Institute of Mental Health concluded 4.2 million Americans are addicted to gambling, 60 percent of whom have yearly incomes under $25,000. The amount of problem gamblers America has today is larger than the population of Los Angeles, California! Indeed, gambling is a very serious social problem. Yet, it is a more serious biblical problem. Let us consider three more reasons why gambling is a sin.
Gambling causes Christians to be addicted to evil practices. The Christian should be able to say, “I will not be brought under the power of any” (1 Corinthians 6:12). The Bible teaches that a Christian should not allow anything, except Christ, to control him (Romans 6:16-18). The addictive nature of gambling violates the biblical teaching of self-control. If I am addicted to gambling, I do not have control of myself, gambling controls me in some ways. The Bible makes it amply clear that Christians must have control of themselves (Galatians 5:23; 2 Peter 1:6). Gambling is a sin because it causes Christians to be addicted to the wrong things.
Gambling sets an evil and worldly example. The Christians is called out of the world to serve God (2 Corinthians 6:17-18). Jesus taught us to be a good and shining example to those around us (Matthew 5:16). Paul encouraged Timothy to be an example of faith to the believers (1 Timothy 4:12). One of the major problems with gambling is that a Christian cannot maintain a good example and be a gambler. Gambling is associated with such evil things as drinking, drugs, sex, smoking and reveling. If the Christian is to abstain from evil (1 Thes. 5:22), and gambling is directly associated with evil, how can a Christian gamble and still please God???? Gambling is a sin because it ruins the Christian example.
Gambling can cause dishonesty and deceit. Like the drug addict who has to rob the local store to get his next fix, so the gambler may be led to commit crimes to get to the next poker table. For example, A U.S. News & World Report analysis found crime rates in casino communities to be 84 percent higher than the national average. An astonishing example of this type of dishonesty is reported by Focus on the Family. They report that a church secretary in Minnesota stole $186,000 from the church to finance her casino and lottery obsession. While this may be the exception not the norm, the statistics show us that crime, & dishonesty go hand in hand with gambling. Christians should provide for things honest in the sight of all men (Romans 12:17). Gambling is a sin because it breeds dishonesty & deceit.
Dear friend, the problem of gambling is growing out of control in our local communities. May we do something about this problem by standing up and speaking out against this malicious evil.
This material is copyrighted by The Gospel of Christ and its authors. This information is free to use in its entirety without further consent, however, modifications should not be made without contacting mail@thegospelofchrist.com for permission. Any and all images contained herein are believed to be free for all distribution and content.