Restoring New Testament Christianity

Why I Left the Baptist Church

2010-03-03T20:41:00.001-08:00

In the fall of 1973 I had no intention of leaving the church in which I was raised. On the contrary, I had recently publicly professed my faith in Jesus Christ and was baptized on the same day. I could well be described as “on fire” for the Lord. I was quickly received and surrounded by men and women who wanted with all their hearts to reach others with the gospel. Both in social settings and in door-to-door efforts I was taught and shown by example how to share my faith.

I began studying the Bible on my own for the first time in my life. I was greatly encouraged in this by others in the Baptist church who also expressed great confidence in the Bible as the perfect, complete word of God. They encouraged me to memorize scripture, to quote scripture, and, above all, to follow the scripture, even above what a man or a church might want. I truly had learned the nature of a living faith as expressed by Jesus when He said: “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).

There were issues that I began considering as I looked at the current state of what was broadly called “Christianity.” Jesus clearly pointed to a definite, clear path for all of those who trust in Him to follow (Mt 7:13-14). Our Lord, in the very night He was to be betrayed, prayed to the Father about each of us that would later come to believe in Him. “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 that You sent Me (John 17:20-21). When I read the Lord’s words, uttered in the very shadow of the cross, I became determined that I would not be the one that would cause another to turn away from the Lord. These words plainly show that unity can come only from a complete commitment to the Lord.

Anyone who looks at the religious world can easily see that most of the effort of men in the name of God is done to be seen by men and out of loyalty to men and the denominations they build (Gal 1:10, Mt 15:13-14). While my knowledge of the Bible was limited, I decided to test my own practices and be open to new things by focusing on God’s word and not on men. “The Lord will not lead me wrong” was often in my thoughts as I looked at the scriptures. I was not afraid to be challenged by His word!

One Sunday morning, as I was driving from the Baptist College, Samford University, to my parent’s house, I heard a lesson from a preacher concerning the Lord’s Supper. While I was in the Baptist church, I had never partaken of this memorial of the Lord. The lesson on the radio described passages that I had read, concerning how Jesus instituted His supper and how He wanted every disciple to partake of it (Mt 26:26-28; 1 Cor 11:23-25). As the preacher continued, he showed the significance of Sunday, the first day of the week, in the regular assemblies of Christians (1 Cor 16:2). The Holy Spirit recorded how one church partook on the Lord’s Supper on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor 10:16). As I drove my car, I also wrote down these and other passages of scripture to examine later. I became convinced that I should partake of the Lord’s Supper on every first day of the week.

That very day I faced a dilemma. The Baptist church where I attended was not offering the Lord’s Supper that Sunday. How was I going to resolve this situation? Rather than point to inconsistencies of others, or make up some hypothetical situation to justify myself or “my church,” I simply tried to obey the Lord. That day I viewed the lunch I ate at my parent’s house as a private partaking of this supper of the Lord. I was soon to see that this sincere effort was not the way to follow these instructions of Jesus. It would not be long, however, before I would find a proper way to remember Jesus as He had instructed.

After attending a semester at Samford University, I had enrolled at the University of Alabama and was in the process of visiting several churches. On a Wednesday night I decided to visit the University church of Christ. I sat in the back of the auditorium and heard a class taught by their campus minister, Ron Gholston. This class would plant a seed that would change my life.

Brother Gholston began with the great commission of Jesus as recorded in the book of Mark. “And He said to them, “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” (Mark 16:15-16). The teacher likened this verse to a math equation (1+1=2). He proceeded to make this point. “Suppose someone decided to be baptized but did not have a personal faith in Jesus. Would he be saved? It is like taking one of the “1’s” away from the equation. When that happens then you cannot have the proper result. A person who does not believe but is baptized cannot rightly expect salvation.”

I fully agreed with brother Gholston, but was surprised at the next point he made. “What about the person that believes but is not baptized?” He gave the same illustration with the equation (1+1=2) but then made a point that I had not considered. Was baptism an essential step in salvation?

Over the course of that class I came to see passages of scripture that I had never considered. The preacher made a similar point with the equation illustration (1+1=2) on another passage of scripture. ^”Then Peter said to them, “Repent, 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 2:38). He began to make the point that whenever you find baptism and salvation (or forgiveness) in the same context, that baptism always precedes salvation (1 Pt 3:20-21). This point made a deep impression on me.

As a Baptist, I used the “4 Spiritual Laws” tract. In this tract I taught others to seek the forgiveness found in the blood of Jesus shed on the cross (Rom 3:23; 6:23). I urged them to receive Jesus as their Savior by saying the “sinner’s prayer,” being a fruit of genuine faith and repentance. This is what I had been taught and this was what I had seen practiced in the Baptist assemblies.

Brother Gholston continued in his class to give the example of the conversion of Paul. After the Lord had struck Paul blind, we find that Paul now came to believe in Jesus and obediently follow His instructions (Acts 9:1-6). I heard many sermons in the Baptist church describing how Paul was saved at that point. I could read in my Bible how Paul in Damascus was fervently praying and fasting before the Lord (Acts 9:7-11). I had considered Paul’s prayer as positive proof that he was now saved.

There was one more scripture to be presented in the class that would deeply move me and cause me to reconsider earlier teachings I had received as a Baptist. When Paul, in his own words, describes what Ananias said to him, it became crystal clear to me about the point in time that Paul was saved. “And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16). Paul had prayed and fasted for three days and still was not forgiven! He needed to be baptized!

The next week I spent a considerable amount of time in Bible Study and reflection. I privately talked to brother Gholston and came to see that there were some real questions about my own baptism. From the Bible I learned that it is possible to be immersed in water for the wrong reason and, as a result, that baptism not be acceptable to God (Acts 19:1-6). Rather than be unsure about my stand, I was baptized into Christ for the forgiveness of my sins (Acts 2:38).

This was just the beginning of my journey with the Lord. I knew that I needed to stand for the undenominational Christianity that the Lord had prayed for (John 17:20). From that point on, I have sought to be a part of local churches that would stand with the Lord in keeping the great commission He gave (Mark 16:15-16; Mt 28:18-20).

Since that time I have continued the same process of examination and standing. I since have often thought about Paul and the reasons he left the religion in which he was raised (Phil 3:4-11). Are you standing in God’s righteousness alone?

Changes I Have Seen Since I Began Preaching

2010-02-25T07:41:00.000-08:00

by Forrest D. Moyer
www.cvillechurch.com

I began preaching in 1946. Some forty-seven years have gone by since I began. I have seen many changes both in the world and in the church. Means of travel and communications have drastically changed. People have even gone to the moon. Governments have toppled; new nations have begun. Standards of living have improved for millions. And yet poverty reigns in many nations. Crime has become the norm in most of our cities. A car is stolen every 42 minutes in Fresno. People are killed as they stand on the street corners; drug and alcohol use have become common even among teenagers. Violence, nudity and profanity are standard fare on television and in movies.

Homosexuality was one of the most disgraceful acts that one could think of when I was young. Now it is being heralded as being a normal lifestyle. Abortion was almost unheard of when I was a boy. Now millions of abortions are performed every year. We have an administration that endorses both homosexuality and abortion. Things have changed!

Changes in the Church

Not only have there been changes in the world, but we have seen many changes in the church of our Lord as well. Changes in such things as expedients might be most effective. Changes in God’s ordained worship, government, and work are always wrong. I have seen changes in both areas. With the coming of more efficient communications, we have been able to effectively teach more people. We have been able to sound forth the truth in radio and television as well as the printed page. I am happy to have been enabled to use such methods in gospel preaching.

I remember when I was young that tobacco use was quite common among members of the church. In fact, between Bible class and the assembly for worship, it was common to see dozens of men standing in the yard or on the steps smoking. We thought that anyone who said anything about such habits was a "fanatic" or "radical." Today most brethren have seen the danger in tobacco use. Here ... we see no one standing outside smoking.

When I was young, in every gospel meeting you would hear sermons on why we don’t use instrumental music or have choirs or groups singing in our worship. Today many churches are introducing choirs and groups. Some are even using instrumental music. Things have changed!

I have seen other changes that frighten me very much. When I began preaching, the Bible was accepted by all brethren to be the inspired word of God. Brethren everywhere demanded "book, chapter and verse" preaching. All preachers appealed to "command, example and necessary inference" as the way to establish Bible authority. The result was a united brotherhood. Today, it is different. Some brethren no longer regard the Bible as the truly inspired word of God. Even more have given up the demand for "book, chapter and verse" preaching and are calling for a "new hermeneutic" that rejects "command, example and necessary inference" as the way of determining God’s will for our lives. Max Lucado, a well known author and minister of the Oak Hills church of Christ in San Antonio, Texas, says: "I have a gut feeling that we (the church of Christ) have approached the Bible as engineers, looking for a certain design or architectural code. And I think we find that everyone finds a different code ... There is no secret code. The Bible is a love letter as opposed to a blueprint. You don’t read a love letter the same way you read a blueprint" (quoted in Behold the Pattern, Goebel Music, p. 114). When brethren regard the Bible as a "love letter," they cease to "follow the pattern of sound words" (2 Tim. 1:13). Truly, things have changed.

When I began preaching, I never heard of such things as so-called "fellowship halls," "church kitchens," or "family centers with gymnasiums" among our brethren. When such things were first introduced, there was a hue and cry across the nation against such. Now such are commonplace among many brethren. Yes, things have changed.

If in our study of the word of God, we find that we are failing to do what God says or are doing what He does not say, then we need to change. But let us make sure that our changes are what God requires and not what we decide that would be pleasing to us.

Paul said to Timothy, "Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus" (2 Tim. 1:13). Jesus Himself said that "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My word will never pass away." His message is an unchangeable message in the midst of a changing world. While we are involved in the changes of the modern world, it is gratifying to know that we can hold on to an unchanging God and to an unchanging message. Let us determine that we will never turn from the doctrine of Christ to any other message (2 John 9-10; Gal. 1:8-9). When the winds of change are blowing, we can latch on to the Rock of Ages and know that we are secure under the shelter of His wings. (1993)

The Foundation of Spirituality -- Honesty

2010-02-19T05:55:00.000-08:00

by Larry Rouse
www.cvillechurch.com

Why does the preaching of the gospel seem not to be effective in our society today? We know that God’s word has not changed, nor has its power (Rom 1:16). We are assured by God that His word will never return to Him void, but it will always accomplish the purpose for which He sent it (Isa 55:11). Today, with this present generation, as it has in past generations, the word of God is able to expose hearts and allow men to choose light or darkness (Jn 3:19-21). This choice depends upon the kind of heart a man possesses.

When Jesus described the kind of heart in which the word of God would be received and would prosper, He described it as “good and honest” (Lk 8:15 KJV). Will a man choose light or darkness, honesty or dishonesty? If a man decides that he “hates the light” then God will let him “believe a lie” and will not do anything further other than the presentation of His word (2 Thess 2:10-11).

We must fight the temptation to be dishonest

The nature of man has not changed. Without continual exposure to the word of God, men’s hearts will be pulled back to self-justification and blindness (Prov 16:2; Jer 17:10-11). Why do men prefer dishonesty? Psychologists suggest that men tend to make up the reasons for their behaviors after they do them, and that their “reasons” and behavior usually have nothing to do with each other.

King Saul was a prime example of a good man who gave in to dishonesty to his own destruction. Do you remember the various explanations that he made to Samuel when he was confronted about his direct disobedience to God’s command (1 Sam 15:3, 15, 20-21)? “I was going to sacrifice them! No, wait, it was the people that did it!” Finally, after a spiritual wrestling match, Saul admits his sin, but without true repentance! Saul thought that his outward confession without a changed heart would put him right with God. In this he had deceived himself! This pattern would remain throughout Saul’s life.

We must recognize dishonesty

It is a difficult thing for good and honest Christians to see the deceit and manipulation from those who have a hidden agenda to pull others into their circle. Flattery is first used to gain a closer association and trust. Then lies are told in secret to inflame emotions and close minds (Prov 18:19). Finally, these men succeed in having their new disciples cut off association with their former brethren without so much as talking about these newly discovered “differences” over an open Bible (Gal 4:16-17).

A commitment to honesty will keep us from these “closed door decisions” that result in one “cutting and running.” Instead we will openly discuss and test those who have beliefs that they say are of God (1 Jn 4:1). Also, we will not accept testimony about the personal actions of another without first giving that person a chance to defend himself (Prov 18:17; Mt 18:15-17)!

Pride always leads to dishonesty

Those who do not know God cannot stand to look at themselves honestly. The driving force behind pride is the desire to be recognized and have praise because we wish to appear to be something that we are not. “For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself” (Gal 6:3). Those that follow this path must wear a mask. They must fight to “keep up appearances” and work to tear others down so that they can receive this vain and temporary recognition of men. There is a better way to live your life!

God’s forgiveness allows us to be honest

God sees me as I am, and, in spite of that, He loves me and seeks my best. “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom 5:8). God sees the darkness of my sin and has provided a sacrifice that will wash away my sins and restore my relationship with Him (Rom 3:23; 6:23). What do I need to do? I need to be honest! I must see my own sin and make no excuses. The love of God must move me to change my heart in repentance that will result in a changed life. I then will take the final step in water baptism, yielding my body to a burial and resurrection like the Lord’s (Rom 6:3-5). I now am the Lord’s, not because I am perfect, but because I am forgiven and have yielded my heart to Him (Acts 2:38-39).

The Christian life is characterized by the forgiveness of God. Rather than run from my shortcomings, I can now run to God for a greater sight and to seek His help in growing to be something more in His service. I come to love the truth, to love bold and honest preaching because it allows me to see what God already sees and what I need to know. Most of all, I am thankful that God’s word is able to penetrate my heart when it drifts into dishonesty and point me back to Him. “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account” (Heb 4:12-13).

Be honest. Are you genuinely serving the Lord with all of your heart
(2 Cor 13:5)?

“He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy” (Prov 28:13).

Other Articles by Larry Rouse
Fools are not Friends
David's Mighty Men
A People of Refuge

Going Home

2010-02-10T20:59:00.000-08:00

by F. Yater Tant

www.cvillechurch.com

The summer's work has ended. After a long and lonely absence I am going back to Texas. Only a few hours ago I was speaking to a house filled with people in Sunnyvale, California. Now it is shortly after midnight, and I am nearly three miles above the Mojave Desert, flying almost six miles per minute in the direction of—home! There are eighty‑one of us in this monster of the skies, five crewmembers and seventy‑six passengers. We left Oakland airport an hour ago, and will set down at Love Field in Dallas about daybreak. One brief stop there to change planes, and by the middle of the morning I shall be home.

There are few words in any language that have the power to grip the heart and stir the emotions as does the word "home". All that is sacred and holy, all that is tender and loving clusters around the word. The memories of childhood, the smiles and tears of youthful years, the security of love and devotion, the hallowed associations of the past are wrapped up in the word. In early years home is the place of mother and father, perhaps brothers and sisters; in later years home is the place of husband or wife, and perhaps children. Bereft indeed is that poor soul who has no home. But infinitely more wretched is he who has never had a home!

Surely it is not without cause that Christ has pictured to us the Christian relationship in terms of home and family. God is our Father; we are his children. Christ is our brother, and we are brethren one to another. It was not to the Ephesians alone, but to all the faithful of every age that Paul wrote, "So then ye are no more strangers and sojourners, but ye are fellow‑citizens with the saints, and of the household of God." (Eph. 2:19)

Now we are over Nevada. The pulsing roar of the four mighty engines seems to make this leviathan of the air a living creature. The stars in the sky as I look out my window are big and luminous. Most of the passengers are sleeping. But I cannot sleep. I have been gone too long. The eagerness of "going home" is too great. Here and there I can make out the dim, crawling light of an automobile on the desert floor, thousands of feet below. There are not many; and they seem to move at a snail's pace. Perhaps some of these people are going home, too. The same eagerness and anticipation that fills my heart may be theirs. Likely it is so. For we are all of us cut from the same cloth. Our needs, our hopes, our fears, and our joys are pretty much of a pattern. And the God who made us knows what is best for us. He has made provision with loving and infinite care.

Mile after mile slips by in the darkness below. And every mile brings me closer home. Already we are in Arizona; and‑then we shall sail through the star‑studded skies of New Mexico, and on into Texas. My thoughts are nostalgic as we cross the miles. It was to New Mexico (Alamogordo, and then Hope) that my father brought his family when I was still too young to go to school—more than forty years ago. Indeed, my earliest memories are not of Tennessee, the state of my birth, but of the wild grandeur of the Sacramento Mountains and the then curious, but now famous White Sands. It was here in New Mexico that I had my first acquaintance with death. A beloved sister (oldest in the family) had stayed in Tennessee with her husband when the rest of us moved west. And now comes the fateful wire that tells us we shall see her face no more. My father does not weep; he can not. His misery is beyond tears. As I sit in this plane, high in the heavens, I can see him once again at his table upstairs, writing, writing, writing, endlessly writing. I approach to ask him about Davis, but I can not speak for the aching lump in my throat. He raises his head and sees me standing there in childish grief. He puts his pencil down and takes me up into his lap—a rare thing indeed for him, for he was a man of deep emotions, but inarticulate and undemonstrative concerning them. Finally, I realize he is weeping, and of course I weep too. He speaks one brief word, "Your sister has gone home to live with God."

Home! It won't be long now. It will only be a few hours until I sit at my desk and try to type down the thoughts that fill my heart at this moment. And it will only be a few years until I see once again those dear faces in that eternal home, where sorrow and death can never come. My honored sire has slept these fourteen years beneath the blue skies and bright stars of Texas He died in the Lord, and it was of such as he that John was told to write, "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; for their works follow with them." (Rev 14:13) He has gone home. After the turmoil and strife of "life's fitful fever" has ended, what more blessed and glorious thought than to know that one is "going home."

And here is Dallas. Ever so gently the huge ship touches the earth. Thus far the journey has been safely accomplished. Only a few more miles now. And then, home. Is it possible that I am even closer to that heavenly home than to the familiar scenes of my own frame cottage? God knows. Any one of us may at any given moment be only one heart‑beat from eternity—an eternal home with God, or banishment forever from his presence. There is something terrifying about that, and yet something infinitely thrilling. May God grant to all of us that when our eyes shall close in death we may take that sweetest of all journeys—the path that leads to home. - Gospel Guardian, October 13, 1955

Achan's Sin

2009-06-27T19:18:00.001-07:00

by Edward O. Bragwell
www.cvillechurch.com

Fresh on the heels of an astounding victory at Jericho, the young Israelite nation, under Joshua's leadership, focused on the next objective in their campaign to capture Canaan - the land promised by Jehovah. Ai, a small town, was next on the list. Upon their return, the men sent to spy out Ai advised Joshua to send only two or three thousand men against Ai "for the people of Ai are few" (Josh. 7:3). The men of Ai turned the battle into a rout, chasing the Israelites back to where they came from, striking down thirty-six men in the process, almost completely demoralizing Joshua and Israel.

Joshua could not understand why God would bring them over the Jordan only to be destroyed by the Amorites. He poured out his heart to the Lord about the matter. Then the Lord revealed the reason for this defeat. Achan had taken spoils from Jericho, which were forbidden of the Lord, and had hidden them among his stuff. This sin had to be corrected before God would permit Israel to continue her conquest of the promised land. Achan, his family, and his livestock were stoned and burned along with the rest his goods. What a price to pay for one sin.

After the matter was corrected, Israel, with the guidance and help of God, defeated Ai. (Read Joshua 7 and 8.)

Achan's case illustrates the power of sin. His sin caused a whole nation to suffer. "But, that was back then," says someone, "what about now?" The Hebrew writer compares sin back then and now: "For if the word spoken through angels (during the Old Testament era, see 1:1-eob) proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just reward, how shall we escape if we neglect so a great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard him" (Heb. 2:2-3, read also Heb. 10:28,29).
The case of Achan refutes three popular myths about sin.

Myth: One sin won't hurt.

How often have you heard it said that it won't hurt to do it just this one time - "it," meaning whatever sin is under consideration at the time? Achan's one sin hurt him greatly, along with his family, his nation and the cause of his God.

One sin does hurt. "For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all" (Jas. 2:10). Eve's one sin brought death to the whole world. Moses' one sin caused him to miss Canaan (Num. 20:7-13). Nadab and Abihu's one sin cost them their lives (Lev. 10), as did Uzzah's (2 Sam. 6:1-8) and Ananias and Sapphira's (Acts 5). The rich young ruler only lacked one thing to inherit eternal life (Lk 18:22-23), but lacking that one thing caused him to go away sorrowful. Simon the Sorcerer was said to be "poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity" after committing one sin (Acts 8:23).

One who thinks that one sin will not hurt needs to be aware that one sin may very well be a launching pad for many other sins.

Joseph's brethren became envious of him. This fostered a hatred to the point they could not even speak peaceably to him. This was followed by conspiracy and bodily harm. They sold him into slavery; and, to cover up their crime, they lied to their father (Gen. 37).

David, a man after God's own heart, looked on a woman to lust after her. This led to fornication. Then, in a futile effort to cover his sin, he resorted to treachery and finally had the woman's husband killed (2 Sam. 11). Did his one sin hurt? He wrote, "My sin is always before me" (Psa. 51:3).

Apostasy from the Lord is taken one step at a time. Paul urges Timothy to preach so as to prevent apostasy, then explains why the urgency by showing how apostasy progresses. First, "they will not endure sound doctrine." Such people begin their downward slide into apostasy by becoming annoyed at sound preaching - preaching that truly reproves, rebukes and exhorts. Secondly, "they will heap up for themselves teachers" to scratch their itching ears. They will seek and find teachers to teach it their way - more pleasing to the car and less negative toward sin. Thirdly, they will turn their ears away from the truth and be turned aside to fables. Going, going, gone! They have completed the plunge into apostasy. But, where did it start? When they took the first step of not enduring sound doctrine.

Each sin that one does weakens his resistance to the next one until he finally develops a seared conscience.

Myth: One's sin is nobody's business but his.

Achan's sin affected the entire nation. It hindered their progress in capturing Canaan. His sin caused all the children of Israel to be rebuked: "But the children of Israel committed a trespass regarding the accursed things" (Josh. 7:1); "Israel has sinned, and they have transgressed My covenant which I commanded them" (Josh. 7:11). This sin caused the whole nation to suffer defeat: "Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies" (Josh. 7:12). Achan's household was gravely affected by his sin (Josh. 7:24).

The fornicator of 1 Corinthians 5 affected the whole church. Paul asked, "Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump?" While it may be true that some sins, because of their personal nature, only hurt the individual and his relationship to God, all too often an individual sin has a way of hindering the gospel of Christ and hurting other members of one's family and/or congregation.

Myth: One can keep sin hidden.

Achan probably thought that he had done a pretty good job of hiding his ill gotten gain. It was hidden in the earth in the midst of his tent - in the privacy and safety of his own home. God knew it all along and ultimately all Israel found out about it. Every diligent Bible reader today also knows about it.

Moses warned the children of Israel: "be sure your sin will find you out" (Num. 32:23). One can never sin and rightly feel secure in the belief that no one will ever know. There are too many ways for even secret sins to become known for one to depend on the protection of secrecy. We once heard the story of two preachers, traveling far away from home, stopping at a tavern and deciding to have a little drink. After all, they were so far away from anyone who knew them that their secret sin would never be known. Since no one knew them or that they were preachers no harm would be done. As they were about to leave they got into a mild argument about who would pay the bill. While they were discussing the matter, the bartender leans over and says, "That's all right fellows, we don't charge preachers in here." No, my friend, do not count on your sins remaining hidden.

Sin is never hidden from God: "And there is no creature hidden from his sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of him to whom we must give account" (Heb. 4:13).

More often than we may realize our sin is not hidden from others. When Moses killed the Egyptian, "He looked this way and that way, and when he saw no one, he killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand. " Still the thing was known (v. 14). We may be more transparent than we think. We may be seen when we are not aware of it. But, if no one on earth ever knows - God knows and will judge us according to the works done in the body, whether good or bad (2 Cor. 5:10).

One sin, not repented of, can make a big difference. Let us not have any illusions about it. Just one sin does hurt. Just one sin may very well hurt someone else. Just one sin may very well be found out by others. It is already known by the Lord, for sure. Let us be careful. Strive to avoid even one sin. When we do sin, we need to correct it immediately, to minimize the damage it can do to ourselves and others.

Achan, his family, and all Israel suffered from a sin that Achan thought he had carefully concealed. We should not go and do likewise.

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Leadership -- Human and Divine

2009-06-22T12:35:00.001-07:00

by Homer Hailey
http://www.cvillechurch.com/

A casual study of the history of Christianity after the days of the apostles reveals that the two things from which the Lord's religion has suffered more than any other, are human philosophies and human leadership. Human leadership inevitably leads men into human errors. The prophet Jeremiah had no doubt seen enough of human leadership to have said what he did, even if he hadn't been inspired, when he said, "O Jehovah, I know that the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps." (Jer. 10:23)

Sometimes we begin to reason: "What the church needs today is a great leader, one raised up to lead us out of the present confusion, and direct us in an aggressive campaign against our external foes." But on second thought this is the very last thing we need, for no religious movement built around human leadership has been successful in accomplishing the divine purpose. History is replete with illustrations. The great movements of the reformation, the Mormon church built around the leadership of Smith and Young, and even some modern movements within our own brotherhood.

It isn't "leadership" so much as "follow-ship" that the church needs. Jesus claimed to be the leader, when He declared Himself "the good shepherd," "the way," "the light of the world" to be followed; and announced to His disciples, if any man would come after me, let him deny himself... and follow me." It is not a leader," therefore that we need, for we have one, a divine one; but the need is for the disposition to follow where He leads.

A tendency is sometimes found today to glorify "boy preachers." Having just recently graduated from the class of "boy preachers" myself, it would be most unbecoming on my part to say anything disparagingly of them. The attitude of most of them is better than that of many of the older preachers. But when one of them is over-exalted he looks upon himself as "the leader," a modern Moses to lead the church out of Egypt and through the wilderness. In this he loses sight of his real mission, which is to point people to the Christ, the real leader. Trouble inevitably follows.

Other young preachers, and some older ones, feel that the first thing to be done when they go into a place is to "appoint elders" over the congregation. The argument is, "the church needs leaders." No, the need is not for leaders, it is for "elders." If a man is not qualified for the work of an elder, he is not what God wants in as an elder, regardless of how good a "leader" he may be. In fact, his ability to lead without the qualifications of an elder is the very point of danger. One function of an elder is to be an "ensample to the flock." He is an ensample worthy of being followed only as he follows Christ, and in his following leads others to follow Him. One who allows himself to be "appointed" without the necessary qualifications further disqualifies himself by that very thing. For in failing to respect the New Testament in the point of elder qualifications, he shows himself a poor ensample to be followed at all. It is "followers" not "leaders" that are most needed today.

Suppose we consider the challenge of sectarianism. Some of us think it would be fine if we had a good leader to guide us in the fight against these foes of truth. The fact is, we have such a leader. Jesus met the devil in debate soon after his baptism, which was not a spectacular affair before a large audience of people, but except for the possibility of heavenly on-lookers it was strictly private. Immediately afterward He began meeting the devil's children, the Pharisees, who were the sectaries of that day. He has opened the way and is leading. Christians need simply to follow the leader in carrying the attack to all sectarianism, in private discussions or with them in groups as opportunity affords. He is all the leader needed; we need to follow the example. God never left the work of "defending the faith once for all delivered unto the saints" solely for preachers and "leaders," but for all of His children.

Then there is the challenge of work, the work left to be done by the church. The cry made so often is, "We have no leaders to direct us, to tell us what to do." Why yes we have, there is the example of Christ, of whom Peter said, "Because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example that ye should follow in his steps"; "who went about doing good." Every needy person whom He met, either in need of physical help or of spiritual help, was an opportunity. Every opportunity to serve was an opportunity in which to glorify His father by that service. What greater leader could one ask for than the Saviour?

It is not even a "leader" that we need to lead the church out of any difficulties and differences that arise within its own ranks, but rather the need is for a disposition on the part of all to follow the Christ, whose way is bound to lead all aright. Difficulties and differences are bound to eventually iron themselves out when the right disposition is manifested by all. Often Jesus looked upon lost humanity as "sheep having no shepherd;" a world suffering from human leadership. But this need not be true of us, for Christ is the Shepherd, and for one today to be the victim of human leadership is inexcusable.

Instead of talking "leadership" and "leaders" so much, as is being done in preacher's meetings and other similar places, let's put the emphasis on "following" for a while. No truly godly man wants to be "the leader of the church," nor does he want to "rule" it; he realizes that true greatness according to Christ's standard is to be realized in being a "servant of all." The truly great and godly is content to follow Christ, and simply insist on others following Him. It seems to me that the work of elders and preachers is not so much that of being "leaders," but it is that of instructing and guiding others to be followers of the Lord, as they themselves follow Him.
Just as surely as men learn that the need is for followers and not leaders, just that surely will the church be led in triumph from victory unto victory. Not only the church, but humanity will be led out of any chaos into which human leadership has brought it, either political, doctrinal, or moral. -- Bible Banner - October 1941

Shimei, the Sympathizer of Saul

2009-06-16T08:46:00.000-07:00

by Irvin Himmel
www.cvillechurch.com

When David was old and about to go the way of all earth, he spoke to his son Solomon, the new king, about Shimei. When Shimei had blasphemed the Lord's anointed, that was a serious affair. David had spared his life under oath, but now the matter was in Solomon's hands. David advised Solomon not to regard him as guiltless, but to do with him according to what might be considered wise.

Following the death of Saul there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of David. Abner, who had commanded Saul's army, made Saul's son, Ishbosheth, king as a rival of David. Eventually, David was recognized as the lawful ruler over all the tribes. Some resentment against David lingered.

The story of Shimei is told in 2 Samuel 16:5‑13; 19:16‑23; and 1 Kings 2:8‑9, 36‑46. This little‑known Bible character is a rather interesting man. His actions and the reactions by David and Solomon reflect the conditions in Israel in the days of the United Kingdom and remind us of problems confronting ancient monarchs. There are lessons for us as well.

Shimei the Slanderer

David and his loyal supporters found it necessary to flee Jerusalem during Absalom's rebellion. They made their way eastward to the Mount of Olives and on to the Jordan, eventually reaching Mahanaim. Not far from the Mount of Olives they came to Bahurim in Benjamite territory. It was there that Shimei, son of Gera, came forth and cursed David. He threw stones at David and his servants, yelling, "Come out, come out, thou bloody man, and thou man of Belial." Shimei asserted that the Lord had returned upon David the blood of the house of Saul. He felt that David was responsible for the overthrow of Saul's rule. He may have supposed that David had something to do with the deaths of Saul and his sons Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchishua, as well as the deaths of Ishbosheth and Abner. He further considered the rebellion of Absalom as a means of David's being taken in his own mischief. To the partisan mind of Shimei, David was a bloody man.

Abishai, David's nephew and one of his captains, asked the king, "Why should this dead dog curse my lord, the king?" He wanted to go over and lop off Shimei's head. David felt that this cursing might be a part of David's own punishment for the sins he had committed, so he said, "Behold, my son . . . seeketh my life: how much more now may this Benjamite do it? let him alone, and let him curse; for the Lord hath bidden him." David felt that he must bear affliction, and he looked to the Lord to repay good for evil. So Shimei continued along the way, cursing as he went, throwing stones, and casting dust.

Shimei took advantage of David's humiliating situation. He vented his hatred for the king. He was of the family of the house of Saul, clearly in sympathy with Saul's house, angry that someone from the tribe of Judah was ruling, and happy that David's son Absalom was attempting to overthrow the king. David showed remarkable composure under these trying circumstances. Abishai would gladly have cut off Shimei's head if David had just given the word.

Shimei the Spared Sinner

After Absalom was killed and his revolt ended, David began the journey from Mahanaim, east of Jordan, back to Jerusalem. At the Jordan he was met by Shimei the Benjamite, and with him there were a thousand men of Benjamin. Shimei is not cursing and calling David ugly names, nor throwing stones and kicking up dust. He falls down before the king and pleads for mercy. He confesses, "I have sinned." Doubtless he wanted to impress David that he was a man of considerable influence by bringing a thousand men with him. He knows his life is in the hands of the king.

Abishai, brother of Joab, asks, "Shall not Shimei be put to death for this, because he cursed the Lord's anointed?" Abishai and Joab were quick to settle all matters with the sword! David grew a bit weary with them at times.

At the moment David was more interested in healing and bringing the people together than he was in putting someone to death. He said to Shimei, "Thou shalt not die. And the king sware unto him." David had been through some very difficult days and longed for peace. He wanted his return to Jerusalem to be a time of rejoicing, not a day of vengeance.

Shimei the Self‑convicted

When David was old and about to go the way of all earth, he spoke to his son Solomon, the new king, about Shimei. When Shimei had blasphemed the Lord's anointed, that was a serious affair. David had spared his life under oath, but now the matter was in Solomon's hands. David advised Solomon not to regard him as guiltless, but to do with him according to what might be considered wise.

Solomon called for Shimei, instructed him to build himself a house in Jerusalem, and not to leave the city. This would keep him under surveillance and away from the other Benjamites. He was warned that if he left the city, "Thou shalt know for certain that thou shalt surely die: thy blood shall be upon shine own head." Shimei acknowledged, "The saying is good: as my lord the king hath said, so will thy servant do." Solomon was giving Shimei a place of refuge in the city that was Israel's pride. If Shimei would abide by the king's instructions, he could live out his days in peace.

Shimei dwelt in Jerusalem for three years. Then two of his servants ran away to Gath. Shimei did a very foolish thing. Instead of petitioning the king for permission to seek those servants, or arranging for someone else to being them back, he saddled his ass and went to Gath in person and brought back the servants. He risked his life for the sake of regaining two runaway slaves. Perhaps he thought that Solomon's oath would be forgotten after all this time. Maybe he supposed he could slip away, bring back his servants, and the king would never know about it. Before we judge him too harshly, let us be reminded that people act in an equally senseless manner today. Many throw off divine restraints and violate the will of God. They suppose that their deeds will go undetected by the King of heaven. They risk their souls for earthly possessions.

Solomon learned of Shimei's violation of his agreement. He reminded him that he had sworn by the Lord to remain in Jerusalem. "Why then hast thou not kept the oath of the Lord, and the commandment that I have charged thee with?" Solomon declared that "the Lord shall return thy wickedness upon shine own head." Shimei stood self‑condemned. He had admitted that Solomon's agreement with him was good. He had nothing to plead in self defense.

Acting upon orders from King Solomon, Benaiah fell upon Shimei that he died. Despite David's leniency toward him, and Solomon's allowing him to live in peace provided he would remain in Jerusalem, Shimei sealed his own fate. Many today are given marvelous opportunities by the mercy and grace of God, but they, like Shimei, play the fool.

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Membership in a Local Church

2009-06-08T12:48:00.000-07:00

by Robert F. Turner
www.cvillechurch.com

You became a member of the church that belongs to Christ when you were baptized into Christ (Gal. 3:26-27). The Lord added you to the number of His followers, metaphorically assembled, when you became obedient to the faith (Acts 2:36-41,47). As a member of the body of Christ (Eph. 1:22-23) you accepted certain obligations: to submit to His leadership revealed in His word; and to give yourself freely to the service of your Lord (Rom. 6:17-18; 1 Pet. 3:15). This is your status whether you become a member of a local church or not. But the Scriptures clearly teach you to work and worship with other brethren (Heb. 10:25). Their presence and accessibility, present both privilege and obligation to all who would be faithful to Christ.

Saints who have agreed to function as a team, under overseers and through servants, become a "church" in the local organized sense (Phil. 1:1; 4:15). This "church" is made up of members of the universal body of Christ, yet has some distinctive roles - is not to be confused with the whole body of Christ, nor with individual members thereof. Believers are to care for their widows, "and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed" (1 Tim. 5:16). A distinction is made between a plurality of saints engaged in a spiritual work, and "the church" (Matt. 18:17). Elders are to shepherd the flock "which is among you" - they have local church obligations (1 Pet. 5:1-3; Tit. 1:5; Acts 14:23). Letters to the seven churches of Asia (Rev. 2:3) show clearly the distinctive nature of local churches. In becoming a member of a local church you accept obligations there also. You should not enter into local church membership without understanding the obligations and responsibilities that go with that relationship.

Team Responsibilities

This means you give up some independence to function collectively. There could be no effective team work if each member operated with his own judgment, with no regard for the team effort. A local church must operate with a common mind, i.e., agreement in judgment. The elders lead in forming this judgment, and as a sheep you are to follow your shepherds (1 Thess. 5:12ff.). For a more current illustration: to play football as a team, each player must act in keeping with the play called by the quarterback or coach.

As much of the work done will be via some medium of exchange (money), you are obligated to bear your share of this load. The collection on the First Day of the week is a means of pooling resources so that team work can be done. When a planned program is announced, and you help finance that program, you are doing some share of that work - pulling with the team. But your participation also means you share in the responsibility for what is done. If you cannot conscientiously support your local church program you had better change it, or join a team you believe is serving the Lord faithfully (Rom. 14:22-23).

Mutual Assistance

Church members sometimes seem to think their presence at service and their contribution to the treasury is the whole of their relationship to the local church. This ignores a most vital reason for collective work. Hebrews 10:25 gives "exhorting one another" (encouraging) as the basic purpose for assembling. We must learn to think of the local church as a mutual encouragement society: brethren banded together to help one another go to heaven. In public worship we "teach and admonish" by our singing (Col. 3:16). We edify one another even as we pray (1 Cor. 14:14-17). The Lord's Supper recalls Christ's sacrifice in our behalf and we "show the Lord's death till he come" (11:23-26). Every member is told: "comfort yourselves together, and edify one another. . . " (1 Thess. 5:11).

And mutual assistance goes far beyond public worship. Fellow Christians enter into a pact to "bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ" (Gal. 6:2). This involves seeking to correct the errors of one another (v. 1). When you enter into covenant relationship with other brethren, you accept the obligation to correct and encourage others; and agree that they should correct and encourage you. You are to love your brethren, not in word only, but in deed and truth (1 Jn. 3:16-19). True love removes the chips from our shoulders. It suffers long and is kind, envies not, does not parade itself, is not puffed up, does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not easily provoked, etc. (See 1 Cor. 13). These things need to be remembered when correcting, and when being corrected. If you have missed this aspect of fellowship in a local church, you are depriving others, and yourself, of help every saint needs and has a right to expect.

People Are Different

Yes they are, and joining hands in the Lord's service does not remove all differences. Occupations, hobbies, financial status, regional customs, age, and many other personal differences will dictate friendships and associations. There is no reason to expect these differences to vanish when we become members of the same local church. But if we will concentrate on what we have in common: on our love for the Lord, and desire to do His will; we will not allow personal differences to destroy our more noble purpose. We may, in fact, learn to share with one another to such an extent that our differences only expand the field of our church work. We can help one another "fill out" what is lacking in each of us, so that our differences become our balance and our strength.

A very few, who "stand fast in one spirit, with one mind, striving together for the faith of the gospel" (Phil. 1:27), will be a mighty force for good. Remember the church at Smyrna, rich in God's sight (Rev. 2:8-11); and determine to do all possible to make the church where you are a member, a Christ-approved church.

The Ruthlessness of Satan

2009-06-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

by Tom Roberts
www.cvillechurch.com

Many do not like to watch "nature shows" on television wherein predators stalk, capture, and disembowel their prey even while they kick, struggle, and scream. The food chain has many links, but from the top down, each devours the other. As one commentator said, "There is neither vengeance nor remorse in the Kalahari.” Eating is simply a matter of survival and those high on the food chain are not angry or embittered at those whom they eat. Hunger motivates the chain, parents must feed their off‑spring to survive, and so the life and death struggle continues day after day, ageless millennia, from Eden until now.

However timid some may feel about the process, there is a fascination about watching a lion single out a lone animal from a huge herd, stalk it until the prey is within reach of a quick charge, then spring out and, without conscience or guilt, dispatch it ruthlessly. Once the prey is chosen, neither pity from the devourer nor terror from the one to be devoured changes anything. Remorseless, merciless, pitiless and unforgiving, the hunter takes the game.
There is a lesson in this about Satan that we often fail to appreciate.

"The Devil Is A Roaring Lion"

Among many of the descriptions of Satan, Peter spoke of him as a lion. We are the prey, and we are warned, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Pet. 5:8). When Peter uses an analogy to describe our enemy, it is for the very reason that Satan has features like a lion. But the analogy breaks down in that the real lion eats only to live while Satan destroys out of anger, vengeance, resentment, and bitterness. The Devil destroys for the sake of destruction.

The reason for this, the Scripture teaches, is because Satan has been cast down and seeks vengeance. "Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! For the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time" (Rev. 12:12). Knowing his doom, Satan seeks to drag us into eternal torment with him. He is a predator, seeking prey.

One of the more chilling things revealed in the Scripture is the statement that Jesus made to Peter just prior to Jesus' arrest. During the Supper, while the disciples argued about who was greatest, shortly before Peter betrayed Jesus, Jesus turned to him and said, "Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat" (Luke 22:31). What a terrible thought! Satan knew Sirnon Peter's name, his weaknesses, his closeness to Jesus and he wanted to "sift" Peter to see if he could withstand the test. This statement haunts me.
Does Satan know my name? Does he desire to sift me? You? Is Satan lying in wait and stalking us like a predator after prey? Who can deny it? Like the lion, Satan has no remorse nor conscience. There is no pity, no mercy, no fair rules of conduct. He is an "adversary" that is absolutely ruthless.

Do we need to be convinced as to Satan's ruthlessness? Look at his history among men.

We can only imagine the beauty of the Garden of Eden and the fellowship that existed between God and man. Sin ruined Eden and man's life has never been the same. Our lives have been corrupted, shameful sin has plagued us and death is our lot. Satan, knowing all this, lied without compassion and said, "You shalt not surely die" (Gen. 3:4). Did Satan care that we would loose fellowship with God, be exiled from the Garden, and die both physically and spiritually? No, he intended to do exactly what he did, to bring misery and destruction into the lives of mankind.

The broken trail of human error can be traced (due to Satan's influence) through Abel's death by the hand of his brother, the increase of sin until God sent the flood upon all the earth, the betrayal of Esau by Jacob, the sale of Joseph by his brothers, the cruel treatment of Israel in Egypt by Pharaohs, the cycle of sin among the Judges, the sins of the kings of Israel through idolatry, Israel's captivities among the nations, the slaughter of infants at Bethlehem, Jesus' death on the cross, the martyrdom of the saints, and, even to this present day, the turmoil of sin in society and our personal lives.

Never once has Satan said, "Enough, no more, I am satisfied." Not one time has the Devil wished for the salvation of a single individual. Not once has Satan allowed a sinner to go free out of pity. The torment of the rich man in Hades (Luke 16) did not assuage his appetite for more victims. Eight million Jews sent to their deaths by Hitler did not satiate.

But let's make this personal. Satan has no mercy, he is ruthless. Have you lost a dear relative to death unprepared for eternity? A son? A daughter? Do you know someone under the influence of alcohol or other, stronger drugs? The Devil devours the lost, even if it is your loved one. Are your grandchildren being led astray? Only the Devil rejoices, but he does rejoice. He has "asked to have them." He has "asked to have you." His hatred knows no limits.

Look at the havoc among churches by the evil action of Satan. Fellowship is destroyed, friendships are ruined, the cause of Christ is made a "hiss and a byword," and the Devil is happy! Denominations are in the grip of error, sin abounds. While time remains, the work of evil continues. I understand that nature has gone awry due to the curse of sin on the earth. The prey being taken by the predator is the result of Eden's loss. We will never see the Garden again and Satan is loose among us. The worst horror films from Hollywood cannot match the reality of the Demon from Hell that lies in wait for each of us.

Modernism says that the fear of Satan described above is paranoia, mental sickness, and schizophrenia. That, dear friend, would be a relief. But Satan is real, altogether, and very much at work on planet Earth.

It is only in Christ that we have any hope of winning this battle. Each of us has felt the power of Satan each time we sin. We all have been "wretched" as Paul was, under the curse of sin (Rom. 7:24), wondering "Who shall deliver me from this body of death?" This "roaring lion" has claimed us all as victims (Rom. 3:23). But Paul rejoiced in victory: "I thank God, through Jesus Christ our Lord" (v. 25).

By God's grace and man's obedient faith (Eph. 2:8-9), by the remedial power of the blood of Christ, Satan can be, and has been, conquered. All our life we have feared the Devil because of sin and death. Jesus changed all that by coming in the flesh, enduring temptation, overcoming sin and death, and setting us free. "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage" (Heb. 2:14-15).

The hapless gazelle has little chance against the prowling lion, but we have Jesus on our side. When he warned Peter about Satan "desiring to have you," Jesus also said, "But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail, and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren' (v. 32).

Tune-in to Bible Talk

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The Consequence of Confusion

2009-05-14T09:52:00.000-07:00

by Steven C. Harper
www.cvillechurch.com

Have you ever had the occasion to be involved in a business operation that lacked real organization? I'm talking about those situations in which the operators have an idea about what they want to do and how to do it, but are not quite organized enough to the point that anything ever gets done. Most often, the problem is not that they do not have the capability to accomplish the tasks and goals, but that somewhere down the line, the tasks and goals have not been communicated effectively to all the employees, and more than a few are confused as to their proper role in the organization, with some just not knowing anything at all about what they should be doing. The consequence of the confusion is that nothing - or at least very little - gets done, and an organization that could have been successful fails.

Sad to say, such confusion is often the cause of many local churches not accomplishing much in the work they should be doing. Many members of local churches of Christ are confused as to their part in the work of the local church, and as a result, much work is being neglected and much is left undone. Part of the confusion has come about because individuals do not know the Scriptures well enough to know their part and their responsibilities, but some of the confusion has come about because those who are teaching and leading them have deceived them (either intentionally or unintentionally) by saying that whatever the individual Christian can do the church can do. The end result of that argument is that local churches have abrogated the individual's responsibilities by creating additional organizations, attaching it to the local body, and then going to great lengths to convince the members that the work they each should have been doing as individual Christians is now being accomplished through these unauthorized additions to the church Christ established.

Think about it for a minute: When your leaders tell you that you do not have to personally lift a finger (except to write a check or donate a sum of money) to accomplish some of the Christian's duties, how likely is it that the members will personally get involved in fulfilling those responsibilities? If I have been told all my life that "we" (the local church) are helping "widows and orphans" (vicariously, through another organization other than the local church itself, such as an orphans' home or "old folks" home), or if I am told "we" are bringing the gospel to the world (vicariously, through a missionary society), or if I am told "we" are feeding the hungry (vicariously, through a "food bank"), how likely will I be to help someone out when they come to me directly? The end result is that individuals have handed over their responsibilities to others to fulfill, and as long as they pay to have it done (no matter how small the amount they may actually contribute), they can rest at ease with the assurance they have "done their duty." This attitude is more common that what you may think, sad to say.

This is not a problem confined to the matter of human institutions, either. When it comes to hospitality, some apparently think the same way, for when they have an opportunity to show true hospitality, they will gladly point the needy one to a hotel, or, in some cases, literally take them by the arm to talk to the elders or to the preacher because they see it as "their job," not one of personal obligation. Especially for preachers who happen to be living in the house owned by the local church, they are often "expected" to accommodate any visiting preachers or Christians who just happen to be passing through. I am not making this up! I can explain this no other way than to say that those who act in this way no doubt believe that "they" are fulfilling their responsibilities because they have contributed money, either for the preacher's support or by monies that paid for the preacher's house, or because they believe the elders are acting "on behalf of the entire congregation."

And what about evangelism? This attitude is seen often when this subject arises. Though many will not come right out and say it, their actions belie their true feelings: that is "the preacher's job." Believing they have fulfilled their duty to "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15), they sit back and wait for "the preacher" to do it, never thinking about their own inactivity in this field. Some are offended when others say they are lacking in their responsibility to teach the lost, and will unashamedly point to their monthly report about how much "they" are "paying the preacher" or how much "they" spent (as a local church) on advertising or tracts or Bible class material or radio ads or billboards or whatever source of communication to which "they" have contributed.

Brethren, it pains me to have to write this about us, but it is true, nonetheless. This is a shameful attitude that has prevented us from accomplishing the deeds that we, as individuals, should be doing and, worse, we believe we are actually doing it. While many Christians are out there taking this meaningful and urgent task upon themselves (as they should), many others are neglecting - shirking - their responsibilities and convincing themselves (and others) that "they" are really working hard to do all the things the Lord would have us do.

It saddens me when I hear such attitudes among my brethren - and not because I am a preacher. It saddens me because I see how much we could be doing and how many could benefit from the teaching and hospitality and benevolence and love for others. I think about the death of Jesus on the cross and how He died in my place, and I wonder how many people may be thinking, "I have paid for my sins," because He died for them. If they think "they" are doing all these other things, why would they not think such when they see our Lord on the cross? God forbid!

Let us not be confused as to our individual responsibilities, brethren. Not a one of us is going to get into heaven because someone else did what we were commanded to do or because we paid for them to do it. In the end, "we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad." (2 Cor. 5:10) We will be judged for what we, as individuals, have either done or left undone (cf. Matt. 25:31-46). The consequence of this confusion will be lost souls. So, what are you doing?

Truths That Help When Facing Temptation

2009-05-06T09:40:00.000-07:00

by R.J. Stevens
www.cvillechurch.com

Life offers many good things. However, in the midst of this wonderful life we are confronted with the problem of temptation. From the beginning, God allowed the devil to put temptations in the paths of men. I am sure this is for our good or God would not have allowed it. Actually trials and temptations bring out the best in us when we react to such as we ought (Jas. 1:2-4).

Temptation is not sin but yielding is. God will not allow the devil to tempt us above what we can bear. In fact, God sends a way of escape for every temptation (1 Cor. 10:13). Isn't that wonderful to know? Yielding to temptation will bring a few moments of pleasure to the flesh but no pleasure to the spirit. And yielding to sin will have a devastating effect on our lives for years to come. Oh, if we could remember to ask ourselves, "Is this short-lived pleasure worth the years of regret that I will experience?" Most of the time when we are tempted, we don't have our heads on very well. If ever there was a time when we need to pray, it is when we are tempted to do something that we know we ought not do. Jesus said, "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matt. 26:41).

Note some truths that will help:

1. Consider The One Who Is Doing The Tempting: Satan is responsible for temptation and is, in fact, called the tempter (Matt. 4:1, 3). He is our worst enemy and if he can influence us to yield to him, he has accomplished what he wants to accomplish. He wants us to lose our souls. We have permission to abhor evil, "Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good" (Rom. 12:9). If I am to hate evil, then I must hate the source of evil, the devil. The word evil is of the "d" evil (Jn. 8:44; 1 Jn 3:8). When we are tempted, surely we don't want to yield to the one who introduced sin into the world, is a murderer, is the father of all deceit, and is the worst enemy we have.

Jas. 4:7 -- "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." In life, we have the choice of submitting to God and resisting the devil or resisting God and submitting to the devil. That's it! It is one or the other.

2. Realize That Each Of Us Has The Capacity To Sin: I once lost my temper on the golf course and the friend I was with put his arm around me and said, "R.J., Paul said in Eph. 4:26 - 'be ye angry and sin not' and you have the first part of that passage down really well." He was right because I was angry and sinned. It is easy to think something you ought not to think; say something you ought not to say; and do something you ought not to do.

God didn't make us sinners. But one of the essential things in overcoming temptation is to admit when we sin. If we are guilty of sin, then we have the capacity to sin. You don't have to be a Harvard graduate to understand that (1 Jn. 1:8-10). How strong you are today has nothing to do with the temptations you will face tomorrow. Don't think for a moment that you are too strong to yield to temptation. Some of the strongest people I have known have yielded to sin and fell completely away from God (1 Cor. 10:12).

The people of Israel thought they were strong but they yielded and it led to their destruction. If others have messed up their lives by yielding, I need to remember that I have the capacity to do the same. The wisest person is the one who learns from the mistakes of others. To realize that I can yield to temptation which leads to the loss of spiritual life here and the loss of eternal life in the world to come, will help me to think like I ought to think when confronted with temptation. There is nothing that is worth the loss of your soul.

3. We Must Remember That We Have A Merciful Father And Loving High Priest Who Are Willing To Forgive When We Repent: Christ left heaven to live on this earth, died on the cross, arose from the dead, and ascended to God's right hand to be our Mediator and Advocate. It will help us when we are confronted with temptation to remember how merciful God has been throughout our lives up to this present time. Our past sins have hurt Him enough. If I truly love Him, I don't want to hurt Him again.

It will help you when you are tempted to remember that temptation comes from the biggest enemy that man has ever known. It will help you when you are confronted with temptation to remember that you are not any stronger than David or Paul. We must admit that we are weak enough in the flesh to fall when we are influenced by the devil. However, let us remember that we are strong enough to stand against the wiles of the devil when influenced by the Lord. And when you are confronted with temptation remember that God loves you and wants you to come back home. He is willing to wipe the slate clean if you will repent. The hero of the parable of the two sons in Lk. 15 was neither of the sons; it was the loving father. Believing this and giving your life to the Lord is the best way to resist the devil (Eph. 4:27; 6:11).

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The Church Has no Business Dealing With Issues

2009-05-04T05:48:00.000-07:00

by Tim Nichols
www.cvillechurch.com

This (the title of this article) is an ambiguous statement that we have heard many times over the years but have never once understood. These sentiments have been proclaimed from pulpits, whispered in conversation, and parroted in pews so many times for so many years that one might assume that it is a restatement of some Bible principle. It is not (unless the term "issue" is redefined so as to mean something not reflected by the dictionary). No passage of inspired scripture is as vague as this oft-repeated statement. What does it mean? As we look over the various options offered by the dictionary for the noun, "issue", we are unable to say for certain which option is meant and what is meant by the phrase. As we carefully study the Bible in search of some parallel phrase or similar sentiment we are unable to find a passage that would seem to say anything like this. I cannot help but suspect that many of those who say such things also have a poorly defined sense of what they are saying and an equally obscure notion of where it is taught in God's book.

I suppose that the most likely meaning is that we should not deal with matters in our teaching and preaching that are disputed or about which there are questions, but I cannot understand how anyone could say, and mean, such a thing in light of the Biblical injunctions to preach the word and in light of the realities that are around us.

People are lost in sin all around us. False doctrines are leading them further and further away from the source of the salvation offered by the God of heaven. Confusing conceptions of God, truth, and righteousness are destroying the faith of many.

Divine truth is the answer to absolutely every enduring human problem (Hebrews 4:12). It is God's means of guiding and directing us from here to heaven. Every truth that He has delivered for our benefit is precious and worthy of our diligent study and application. We have a duty to contend for the faith because it is so invaluable (Jude 3) and because it cannot be readily received by those who tenaciously hold onto competing ideas that are false (Titus 1:11). Every faithful child of God has a yearning to learn more and more of what God has to say to us in His inspired book (Psalm 119:103). No faithful Christian desires to remain ignorant of any part of what God is attempting to reveal (Hebrews 12:25).

Try to think of a Bible truth that has not been disputed. You cannot do so. The existence of God is a disputed question. The divinity of Christ is rejected by a majority of the world's population. Relatively few believe in the inspiration of the scriptures. These are the most basic truths on which Christianity is based. No right-thinking Christian would have us neglect these "issues." Abortion, the identity of the church, how to become a Christian, how to worship God, and all other "issues" addressed by truth are issues that we must address if we are to be faithful to our position as the pillar and ground of the truth (1 Timothy 3:15). When the church abandons its post by refraining from teaching what the people of the world (and worldly "members") do not wish to hear, it ceases to be the salt of the earth (or at least it becomes worthless salt that has lost its savour -- Matthew 5:13). If we were to attempt the impossible task of dealing only with "non-issues" we would have no reason to exist, no message for the world, no truth to teach, no correction for those who need it (all of us), and no edification for the hearers of our delicate little, feel-good sermonettes who would be left without a word from God.

By the way, Truth edifies (1 Corinthians 14; Romans 14:19; Ephesians 4:11-16). Fluff does not. Opinion does not. Titillating tidbits and amusing anecdotes do not. Being pacified, mollified, or electrified is not the same as being edified. Your faith is built (edified) of only one material (Romans 10:17).

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The Lord's Supper

2009-04-27T09:39:00.001-07:00

by Tom Edwards
www.cvillechurch.com

It's really ironic: members in the church of Christ are often accused of not believing in the blood of Jesus, while those who make this accusation might observe the Lord's supper only one to four times a year.

As Christians, we realize the need to remember that precious blood by which the atonement was made. Without the Lord's life-saving sacrifice, sinful man would remain in a lost and hopeless condition, heading inevitably to an eternal separation from God Himself.

But now through Jesus Christ and by our faith and obedience, we can contact the blood of the Lord and enjoy the benefits of having our sins washed away and the beginning of a new life in the Christ. Actually, the church itself is the ``saved''; and the ``saved'' are simply those who have been ``bought by the blood'' of the Savior.

This lesson has been designed to show that the Christian should take of the Lord's supper every first day of the week in order to remember the death of Jesus and be pleasing to God. Acts 20:7 is the only passage that specifies the first day of the week as being the day in which early Christians met to partake of the communion, but this one passage is enough to suffice.
Let us again consider the comments of a few highly regarded men who represent different denominational backgrounds, as to their remarks on Acts 20:7 and the early church's weekly observance of the Lord's supper. This will clearly establish that the weekly participation in the Lord's supper is not just an ``unusual doctrine'' only accepted by those in the ``church of Christ.'' (Let us also remember, however, that the quotes of men are never to be the basis for our beliefs in religious matters; but only that which is from God Himself.)

Adam Clarke: ''...the Lord's day...in which they commemorated the resurrection of our Lord...'to break bread'...intimating, by this, that they were accustomed to receive the holy sacrament on each Lord's day...''

Albert Barnes: ```to break bread.' Evidently to celebrate the Lord's supper. It is probably that the apostles and early Christians celebrated the Lord's supper on every Lord's day.''

Pulpit Commentary: ```to break bread.' This is also an important example of weekly communion as the practice of the first Christians...it is impossible not to conclude that the breaking of bread in the celebration of the Lord's Supper is an essential part of the holy sacrament, which man may not for any specious reasons omit....''

Matthew Henry: ``They `came together to break bread,' that is, to celebrate the ordinance of the Lord's supper, that one instituted sign of breaking the bread being put for all the rest...In the primitive times it was the custom of many churches to receive the Lord's supper every Lord's day....''

What does the Bible say? In Acts 2:42, mention is made that the early Christians ``continued steadfastly'' (``were continually devoting themselves,'' NAS) in the Lord's Supper. If I told you that I continued steadfastly in doing my dishes; but, in actuality, I washed them only four times a year; you probably would not consider this being ``steadfast.''

1 Corinthians 11:20-22,33, 34 also indicates the frequent observance of the Lord's supper. It reads: ``Therefore when you meet together, it is not to eat the Lord's Supper, for in your eating each one takes his own supper first; and one is hungry and another is drunk. What! Do you not have houses in which to eat and drink? Or do you despise the church of God, and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you? In this I will not praise you...So then, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. If anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, so that you may not come together for judgment....'' The inference is that when they met it was to take of the Lord's supper, which shows it was to be observed quite often; but, unfortunately, they had profaned it by turning it into a common meal -- for this, Paul reprimands them.

In realizing the seriousness of this observance (1 Cor 11:27-30), how could one assume that God would allow His children to become lackadaisical with it? to overlook it? or simply minimize it by partaking of it so seldom?

Notice where the emphasis is placed in Acts 20:7: ``And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them....'' Commenting on this, Coffman declares: ``This emphatically states the purpose of Christian assemblies on Sundays throughout history, that purpose being for the observance of the Lord's supper...Even the address of so distinguished an apostle as Paul took second billing on that occasion, the primary purpose having been to observe the Lord's supper...The Christians, from earliest times, had the habit of meeting for the Lord's supper on `a fixed day,' and Acts 20:7 identifies that day as `the first day of the week,' Sunday.''

Sunday is a ``special'' day to the Christian. Though it is true that every day is a day in which one should serve God, Sunday has its special forms of worship. Not only the communion, but also the contribution is to be observed on this day. 1 Corinthians 16:2 reads, ``Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.'' Seldom will one hear any preacher object to the weekly offering of the saints. Actually, many denominations today practice more collections than the Bible authorizes; but without the death of Christ there could not even be any offering from the ``saints.''
The communion is a memorial of Jesus Christ; which has not only been instituted by Him, but also made possible by His very death. As the Lord was quoted concerning this supper in 1 Cor. 11:18, ''...do this in remembrance of Me.''

Early Christians shared the Lord's Supper every Lord's day. May it be our desire to emulate them in that which we believe and practice. Though some things have ceased, the observance of the Lord's Supper has not; and it is to continue until Jesus Christ returns (1 Cor. 11:26).

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Doctrinal Preaching

2009-04-17T12:45:00.001-07:00

by Frank Van Dyke
www.cvillechurch.com

The author of a recognized textbook on speech-making tenders some advice on pulpit speaking, pointing out that "purely doctrinal sermons are not much desired in this age, for most people are impatient with quibblings of creed." This advice comes with poor grace from a person whose interest in religion, I venture, is only nominal, if not nil. It is doubtful that he would know a gospel sermon if he heard one, yet he feels that his position as an authority on secular speaking qualifies him to tell preachers not only how the sermon should be delivered, but also what the content of the sermon should be. Preachers should not speak on doctrine, because people in this advanced (?) age do not desire that type of sermon, is his advice.

The eminent authority makes two blunders. First, he ventures into a field where he is not qualified, and second, he makes the mistake of telling preachers that the content of their sermons should be what the people desire instead of what the Lord commands. This is not so astonishing, coming, as it does, from a modernistic college professor who is also a denominationalist. Of course, he would hardly be expected to know—and probably would not care if he did know—that Paul said that the preacher who tried to please men (that is, preach the type of sermons which are desired in this age) could not be the servant of Christ. Perhaps, his admonition was intended primarily for denominational preachers who are in the business as men-pleasers, and think that much of the advice in the New Testament is not modernistic enough for a streamlined, twentieth century sermon. To them the doctor's advice may be a pearl of great price, but to a gospel preacher it is abominable.

It would be difficult to think of a thing any more ridiculous than the doctor's suggestion. Nothing can hardly equal his stupidity, unless it is an insurance salesman who know nothing about religious journalism, yet thinks that his financial success and prestige will qualify him to tell our religious editors how to run their papers. Even the youngest of us feel that we know a little more than the professor of speech when it comes to what a gospel sermon should contain. He can tell people how to make the halls of Congress reverberate with gems of political oratory, but we think he needs a few lessons on the fundamentals of the gospel before he starts telling us what to include and what to exclude in our sermons. In the same vein, it seems that the competent religious editor would feel that a cracker jack insurance salesman ought to take a course in the A B C's of religious journalism before he begins an effort to revolutionize our papers. People are not led to live lives of faith and obedience in the same way that they are led to invest their money in bonds and insurance policies. A man may be without an equal in telling us how to compose and deliver a political speech or a speech given purely for entertainment, and yet be a dismal failure when it comes to telling us how to preach the gospel. Even so, a man may make a million dollars selling insurance, and then make a complete failure in religious journalism. Indeed, it seems that we have living examples to prove both of these statements.

The cases of the speech instructor and the insurance salesman are parallel. Both have just about the same conception of the gospel; one says that we should preach what is desired in this age, while the other makes a brotherhood survey to determine what type of religious journalism is desired today. However, it does seem that the speech teacher has one advantage; he knew what people desired without sending out a questionnaire. If the insurance salesman had been a close observer of human nature, and could have sensed the trend of modern thought as well as the speech instructor did, he might have been spared the trouble (and shall we now say the humiliation?) of the survey.

What about doctrinal preaching? Every gospel preacher must choose between what is desired in this age and the kind of preaching that the Bible says for us to do. The early Christians continued in the apostles' doctrine (Acts 2:42). It is obvious that the apostles must have preached doctrine. People obey a form of doctrine in becoming children of righteousness (Rom. 6:17). How can preaching save people, unless it presents the doctrine, and shows people how to obey "that form of doctrine?" Paul warned against preaching any other doctrine (1 Tim. 1:3). This implies that there is a doctrine to be preached. Timothy was told to give attendance to doctrine (1 Tim. 4:13,16). Maybe, Paul and others knew that in this age people would not desire doctrine, and hence gospel preachers would have to give it a little emphasis. Paul must have had something like that in mind when he told Timothy to preach with doctrine, for the time would come when people would not endure-would not desire-sound doctrine. (2 Tim. 4:2,3) Those who have so much free information on how to preach ought to get together with Paul, or show us that Paul was wrong. Paul said for us to preach doctrine, because people would not desire it; man tells us to omit doctrine when it is not desired. One of the two has given the wrong advice, and personally I think that Paul is not the one.

What about doctrinal preaching? The afore mentioned speech teacher makes a distinction between a doctrinal sermon and a gospel sermon. After discrediting doctrinal sermons, he speaks with approval of "the gospel sermon or sermons intended to draw inspiration and encouragement from the great religious truths of the gospel, and through this inspiration to lead audiences to apply these truths to their own lives." How ridiculous is such a distinction! Doctrine is nothing but "the great religious truths of the gospel." Imagine a man drawing inspiration from "great religious truths" without preaching those truths. How can a preacher lead people "to apply these truths to their own lives" without preaching the truths—the doctrine—so people can know what the truths are?

What about doctrinal preaching? It is a common thing to hear someone say, "We ought not to preach doctrine so much; we should exhort people more." Not so long ago a denominational preacher visited one of our services, and at the close he favored us with this comment: "That is just the trouble; we have too much doctrinal preaching and not enough convincing preaching." This reminds one of the little boy who went out to shoot the birds, but didn't take his shooter along. Nobody denies that we should exhort and convince people. Too many preachers, however, go out to exhort without the exhorter. They go out to convince without the convincer. Paul said that elders should exhort and convince the gainsayers, but that they should be able to do it with sound doctrine (Titus 1:9). It takes doctrine to exhort and convince people in the right way. ——— Bible Banner – May 1941

Make All Things According to the Pattern

2009-04-03T19:39:00.000-07:00

By Warren E. Berkley
www.cvillechurch.com

Many features of the Old Testament system (law of Moses) were put in place by God, to picture what would eventually become reality through the work of Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. For instance, various details in the Jewish tabernacle served to foreshadow the good things God would eventually confer upon believers. The good things to come were pictured by various elements of the Mosaic system. The law, therefore was a shadow of the good things to come, (see Heb. 9:11 & 10:1).

This is one reason why, when Moses supervised the building of that tabernacle, it was crucial for him to make all things according to the pattern which came from the perfect mind of God. Even the detailed furnishings had to be made exactly like the pattern the Lord had shown Moses, (Num. 8:4). Various features of the old Jewish system were designed by God to foreshadow gospel blessings; these institutions served as the copies or shadows of the heavenly things, so Moses was divinely instructed when he was about to make the tabernacle. God said to him: see that you make all things according to the pattern shown you on the mountain. (Heb. 8:5; Acts 7:44; Ex. 25:9, 40; 26:30; Num. 8:4.)

We have not been instructed to build, or rebuild that Mosaic tabernacle, but when we study these things we must carefully explore for any underlying principles that pertain to us. Just as God expressed His mind to Moses and gave instructions to Him, He has expressed His mind to us, and given us instructions to follow (Heb. 1:1, 2). We're to "hold fast to the pattern of sound words" (2 Timothy 1:13).

I am convinced there is such a principle, and I can best express it this way: God's purpose is carried out when His pattern is followed! The tabernacle is an excellent example. In having the Jews build that tabernacle, we know that God had a purpose in mind. He didn't do this accidentally, nor was this an exercise to keep the Jewish laborers and artisans busy. God had a purpose in mind, when He had the people build the tabernacle; an immediate purpose [Jewish worship], and an ultimate purpose [symbolic of the New Covenant blessings, see Heb. 9:9.] The pattern, or blueprint God gave to Moses was designed to implement God's purposes, both immediate and ultimate.

The principle is: God, in His perfect mind, forms a purpose; then He reveals His pattern, with admonitions to follow His instructions. Only when men follow God's pattern, is God's purpose carried out. Stated negatively, if I don't follow God's pattern, I fail to carry out His purpose!
In the case of the tabernacle, if Moses had ignored God's pattern and followed a human plan -- the tabernacle would not have fulfilled God's purpose; it would not have effectively functioned in foreshadowing the new covenant and the high-priestly ministry of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary (of which the earthly was only a replica)! Only as we follow God's pattern, can it be said that we have performed His purpose. We need to acknowledge how purpose and pattern go together. Behind every pattern revealed by God, there are divine purposes, which are fulfilled when we follow His pattern.

Applications Follow: MARRIAGE. God had certain purposes in mind by instituting the marriage relationship: (a) companionship, (b) reproduction, (c) the nurturing of children, and (d) the foundation of the social order. God had these good purposes in mind. To accomplish these purposes, God revealed a pattern (instructions, law). If we ignore God's pattern for husband and wife, God's purposes are not carried out.

THE LORD'S SUPPER. All anyone knows about the Lord's Supper is from the Bible. What about the elements we use ... the significance we attach to this feast ... the regularity with which we partake ... Where did we come up with all this?

The Bible. When I take everything the New Testament says about the Lord's Supper, and use that as my pattern, is there anything wrong with that? Does that make me a radical, a Pharisee, or a conservative or anti? I think it makes me a Christian. This is what being a Christian is all about: letting Christ be the head of the church, and following the instructions given by Christ through His apostles ... making all things according to the pattern, in order for the purposes of God to be fulfilled.

THE LOCAL CHURCH. God, in His wisdom, set up the local church. That's why, when you read the New Testament, you read about local churches (Jerusalem, Antioch, Ephesus, Corinth, etc.). Christians got together. They formed themselves into local groups, to worship together, to edify one another, and to join together for the preaching of the gospel.

Now, when God set up the local church, through the preaching of the apostles, let there be no doubt, God had certain purposes in mind! I submit, if we want a local church to fulfill the purposes intended by God, we need to follow the pattern given by God. Is that difficult or complicated? Is that an expression of human tradition? NO, it is entirely reasonable, and in keeping with everything the Scriptures teach.

So, when it comes to things like elders and deacons; the preaching and teaching we do; the way we use our resources; the worship we provide for; the support of gospel preachers; the assistance given to needy saints, and all other matters that have to do with the local church, we should follow the pattern given by God!

This is not a matter of being conservative, it is a matter of being right. This isn't just about continuing to do what those men believed in, who started a local church in a community, it is about continuing steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine (Acts 2:42). When we follow God's pattern, because we love God, want to honor Christ and carry out divine purposes -- this is not the mentality of a Pharisee, this is the mentality of a servant who wants to obey the Lord.
Hebrews 8:5 may not call upon us to build a tabernacle, yet the underlying principle is trans-dispensational. It has always been necessary to follow any pattern given by God. This is the only way we can carry out His purposes.

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There's More to it than That

2009-03-24T13:18:00.000-07:00

by Dee Bowman
www.cvillechurch.com

The Bible is a book about people. It uses the lives of people to teach and illustrate truth and righteousness, rebellion and impiety. People are the ultimate products of God’s creation, the only part of His creation blessed with a sense of ought–the will to determine which way to go, what path to choose. He has set before man a blessing and a curse–a blessing if he seeks after the good, a curse he seeks after his own desires in preference to what God has commanded (see Deut. 11:26-28). Jesus spoke of this choosing when He described the two ways a man may choose: a broad way that leads to destruction, or a strait way that leads to life eternal (Matt. 7:13-14). It’s people who make these choices. They do it of their own free will.

God has given us great illustrations of faithfulness, couched in the character and personalities of men. For instance, have you ever considered:
The faithfulness of Abraham? Abraham left Ur of the Chaldees of his own free will, choosing deliberately to go out, “not knowing whither he went.” Think about that.

You want to talk about faith? “By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country,” (Heb. 11:9), “for he looked for a city which hath foundations whose builder and maker is God” (11:10). He saw, by the eye of faith, something better. Do you reckon we would have the courage to do as he did? Abraham’s faith is a model for us today. God treats our willingness to obey in the same way He did that of Abraham.

The virtue of Joseph? Joseph had all kinds of difficulties handed to him–difficulties he had done nothing to deserve. He was sold into slavery by his own brothers. He was thrown into prison for no crime, for an accusation by Potiphar’s wife (Gen. 39). One thing impresses me about his virtue. When he was with Potiphar’s wife, he hadn’t taken off his cloak; he never intended to stay. And when she sought to seduce him, his question was, “how then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” (39:9). He was rejected and forgotten by those whom he befriended, yet he never lost that virtue, nor did he ever become bitter at the allotments of life. In fact, when he could have gotten revenge against his brothers for selling him into slavery, he said, “Now be not grieved nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life” (Gen. 45:5). His faithfulness remained intact, no matter the circumstances. Joseph–an excellent example of moral excellence.

The wisdom of Solomon? Solomon lived life with all the gusto you can. He experienced everything life had to offer, he dipped into every phase of possible enjoyment. He had lands and houses, slaves and servants, power and repute, riches immeasurable. He engaged in great philanthropic enterprises, experimented with botany, and stored up treasures of all sorts. Furthermore, with each experiment he conducted, he said, “my wisdom remained with me” (Eccles. 2:2; 2:9). When it was said and done, he determined that “all was vanity and vexation of spirit and there was no profit under the sun” (2:11). He ultimately concluded, after all had been said, and in perhaps the wisest of all his statements, “...fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man” (Eccles. 12:13). Consider the wisdom of Solomon. He tried it all; but he reached the proper conclusion about life.

The meekness of Moses? Moses was reared in Pharaoh’s house. He had everything, what was described as “great riches,” and “treasures in Egypt” (Heb. 11:25-26). But in the midst of all this power and wealth, he choose–deliberately chose–“...to suffer affliction with the people of God, rather than the pleasures of sin for a season.” Why? Because, “he had respect unto the recompense of the reward” (11:26). He saw, by faith, something better. He took control of his faith and, in doing so, made himself the object of scorn and disdain in a true statement of meekness. He put his strength under control. He managed himself in accordance with what he understood to be the greater. To subordinate one’s will to the will of God is the essence of meekness. Moses demonstrated that meekness in a most marvelous manner.

The devotion of Paul? Saul was an enemy of the church in his early years. He calls himself a “Hebrew of Hebrews” (Phil. 3:5). He was likely destined for greatness in the religion of the Jews. This same Saul was to become the Apostle Paul, the most intense defender of the faith of his or any other time. He “suffered the loss of all things” that he might win Christ. He counted all the worldly things he had discarded as mere refuge in order to maintain his devotion to the cause of his Master, Jesus. He was beaten, shipwrecked, had his brethren swore out oaths to slay him. He was stoned and left for dead, was in perils of various sorts (see 2 Cor. 11:22-28), and walked with death at his heels all the days of his life. Yet, was it not he who said, “our light affliction, which is but for a moment worketh for us a far greater and eternal weight of glory” (2 Cor.4:17-18)? See his devotion–his total commitment to the cause, his unfaltering faith in Jesus Christ. What a great example of devotion.

Or all the others? On and on we could go. What about the heart of David, or the humility of John the Baptist, or the courage of Peter, or the love of the Apostle John, or the encouraging words of Barnabas? They were all people, people just like you and me. God has given us information about them so that we might learn how to please Him and what to do to avoid His displeasure. What a wonderful book, this Bible! What a people book!

Unity Through Restoration

2009-02-27T19:04:00.001-08:00

by Colly Caldwell
www.cvillechurch.com

"Unity through restoration" is a phrase which Christians have used to describe agreement to share spiritual relationship and activity based upon mutual understanding and acceptance of truth as taught in the Scriptures. "Restoration" is a word we have adopted to signify the recovery of first century faith and practice in later centuries. We unashamedly believe that the faith and practice of Christians in the first century, when recorded in the New Testament with Divine approval, forms the pattern for God's people until Christ returns (1 Cor. 4:6; Phil. 3:17; 4:9; 1 Tim. 4:6; 6:3-5; 2 Tim. 1:13; 2:2; 3:10,14; Tit. 1:9; 2 Jn. 9-11).

"Unity in diversity," on the other hand, is a phrase which has been used to identify agreement to share spiritual relationship and activity while disagreeing on what the Bible teaches about mutually shared items of faith and practice. The phrase often describes denominational acceptance of totally divergent and even contradictory positions considered significant enough to separate people into different "fellowships" or denominations. Baptists and Methodists, for example, consider one another Christians and share some activities (such as Easter sunrise services). They recognize that their faith and practice are sufficiently different to keep them from being together, yet they claim to be united. The phrase has also been used to call for the uniting of those who hold differing views in "Christian churches" and "churches of Christ." For example, advocates of "unity in diversity" want those who believe in using mechanical instruments of music in worship to join with those who do not, working and worshiping together in spite of their differences.

I have been asked to discuss which of these two approaches is biblical when we confront questions concerning divorce and remarriage.

Unequivocally, I affirm that biblical unity on any question about which God has spoken must be based upon what God says. It cannot be based upon man's reasoning (Jer. 10:23). Amos rhetorically asked, "Can two walk together unless they are agreed?" (Amos 3:3) "Walking together" indicates mutual, shared activity. If I am involved in an activity with another, I must agree, at least in that activity, or violate conscience by participation. In spiritual matters the basis of agreement must be the Word of God (Matt. 15:8-9).

Jesus prayed that all Christians "may be one" in God and in Christ just as he had prayed that those who were with him should be one (Jn. 17:20-21). How were the apostles one? The answer is in his prayer: "You gave them to Me and they have kept Your word" (v. 6); "They have known that all things which You have given Me are from You" (v. 7); "I have given to them the words which You have given Me and they have received them" (v. 8); "keep though Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are" (v. 11); "While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name" (v. 12); "I have given them Your word" (v. 14); "Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth" (v. 17); "for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth" (v. 19). There is no question that Jesus taught unity upon compliance with the word of God.

One asks, however, "But what about divorce and remarriage?" Two very direct references settle that in my mind. First, when answering questions about divorce and remarriage, Jesus asked, "Have you not read. . . ?" (Matt. 19:4) Jesus called for a "restoration" of the will of God in their practice by leading them back to the Word. He expected them to read, draw proper conclusions, and then apply God's word to their questions. Second, when the disunited Corinthians needed answers to their questions concerning husbands and wives, they knew to go to God's word. They wrote Paul who was a messenger for Christ. Paul responded with the commands and counsel of the Lord (1 Cor. 7:1-40). He did not call for unity on grounds other than "that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment" (cf. 1 Cor. 1:10). Some might say, "But Paul gave his own judgment in some of his statements on marriage in 1 Corinthians 7." A careful reading of the text will clearly show that where Paul expresses his judgment it is either apostolic judgment guided by the Holy Spirit (vv. 25,40) and/or an admonition to follow a safe course in matters left to human decision (vv. 26-28). In either case, "serving the Lord without distraction" is primary (v. 36). The overriding concern of the chapter is: What does God say for us to do?

We must acknowledge at this point some biblical guidelines which are essential to "unity through restoration" and which are most helpful in applying this great principle to issues related to divorce and remarriage:

First, Christians make decisions about fellowship or unity in keeping with the following clear instruction: (a) we must preach and defend the Truth as revealed by God in the New Testament (2 Tim. 4:1-5); (b) we must not teach error or sin (Gal. 1:6-10); (c) we must not practice anything we believe to be sin (1 Tim. 5:22; Matt. 15:1-14); (d) we must not condone or support error or sin in others (2 Jn. 9-11; 1 Cor. 5; Rev. 2:12-29); (e) we must not be hindered from accomplishing all which God expects of us (Matt. 7:21,24-27; Jas. 4:17; 2 Cor. 8:7; 13:7-11).

Second, some issues can be decided by appeal to Scripture. In these, intense study and reflection upon God's Word is often required. We must be uncompromising where God has spoken but we must also be patient, kind and loving (Eph. 4:13; Col. 3:12-17) with those still in the process of learning. We are all still studying some subjects. Some other issues are not answered in Scripture and still others call for human judgment. To agree to remain united when we disagree on matters of opinion or human judgment is a separate matter and is not properly within the scope of what has traditionally been referred to as "unity in diversity." Let us not confuse terminology and thus open doors to error.

Third, all decisions on unity must be decided personally or congregationally, not nationally or by some individual Christian or association of Christians for all other Christians. We are not bound to a human creed or human consortium. We appeal solely to Christ as our Head. We must never forget what we teach concerning: (a) the imperative responsibility of each Christian to act from his/her own open investigation of the Word of God; and (b) the autonomy of local congregations to act independent of outside oversight or intimidation. We should allow the Lord to decide whether we are united spiritually with those outside the sphere of our activity or influence. Generally, I am united with all whom God accepts and I am pleased to share spiritual relationship with anyone who is in good standing with the Lord. Specifically, fellowship is at issue when I meet a situation in which my life, responsibility, or influence is engaged and I must make a decision regarding what or with whom I will share active relationship. May God bless us with a spirit of wisdom and understanding that we may meet our grave responsibilities in this area of our spirituality! —- Guardian of Truth , January 2, 1992

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The Greatest Victory

2009-02-16T08:28:00.000-08:00

by Cled E. Wallace
www.cvillechurch.com

History abounds in its records of great achievements and victories of human celebrities. None excels the triumph of Paul, the apostle, described by himself on the eve of his "departure."

"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 to me only, but also to all them that have loved his appearing." (2 Tim. 4:7, 8)

"I have fought the good fight." Men have fought for liberty, to satisfy selfish ambitions for conquest, to accumulate wealth and its attending power, and for other causes more or less great. Some have attained fame as heroes while others reaped a reward of infamy. Paul fought. He is not much of a man who will not. The kingdom of God is not a drilling ground for pacifists. It is organized for conquest. "The good fight" of Paul is the best sort of fight and challenges a most careful examination. The weapons of that warfare clearly exhibit the character of it. "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh (for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the casting down of strongholds); casting down imaginations, and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ; and being in readiness to avenge all disobedience, when your obedience shall be made full." (2 Cor. 10:3-6) The fight must be carried on by those of like mind with Paul as long as the imaginations, thoughts and plans of men mark out paths of disobedience to Christ, the Lord.

Paul was a fighter before he was a good fighter. He once thought that he "ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth" and he carried on a terrific warfare against the truth while in his darkened understanding he thought it to be heresy. His "good fight" began with his conversion and ended only when his head went rolling in the dust in glorious martyrdom. He was stern in his defense and advocacy of the truth. He was even hard on himself and uncompromising in his demands that his own life conform to the ideals he was battling for. "I therefore so run, as not uncertainly; so fight I, as not beating the air: but I buffet my body, and bring it into bondage: lest by any means, after that I have preached to others, I myself should be rejected." (1 Cor. 9:26, 27) Many men have the energy, courage and will that fighting demands and they use it in a way that is disastrous to themselves and others. A human jellyfish may do no more harm than waste good food and encumber space that could be more profitably used, but a fighter is either doing a lot of good or a tremendous amount of harm. It is contrary to his nature to be neutral. A good fight demands a stout heart directed by clear thinking and true ideals to guide it. Paul had an objective; he was going somewhere. "Brethren, I count not myself yet to have laid hold: but one thing I do, forgetting the things which are behind, and stretching forward to the things which are before, I press on toward the goal unto the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 3:13, 14) "Stretching forward" and "pressing on" point out the enormous energy the apostle employed in his upward movement toward his goal. He encountered many obstacles and his victory in overcoming them made it "the good fight."

"I have finished the course." He ran a great race and the pattern of it is found in his own words: "Therefore let us also...lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and perfecter of our faith." (Heb. 12:1, 2) The zeal of the apostle was so fiery that his enemies considered him mad and possibly some of his well-wishers thought him a fanatic. The taste of victory was sweet to such an ardent spirit and he glowed in triumph over a finished course. The way was dark and storms were gathering on one occasion when he was enroute to Jerusalem. It was much like Daniel going into the den of lions. Undaunted, he said to a group of friends: "But I hold not my life of any account as dear unto myself, so that I may accomplish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God." (Acts 20:24) That course was now finished, his gospel ministry had been long, rich and faithful without the spot of compromise or surrender, and he was ready to meet the Lord unafraid and unashamed. It was the warrior's true reward!

"I have kept the faith." This faith was the gospel that Paul preached which came to him by revelation of Jesus Christ. There were many and powerful influences at work to modify the faith. Judaism, Paganism and the perennial appeals of the flesh stubbornly resisted a full surrender to the stern demands of the faith. These strong influences are still seen in much that is called Christianity. Paul's zeal for the faith burned hotly at Antioch when he resisted the encroachments of a strong Jewish clique among the brethren "that the truth of the gospel might continue with you. Much of Paul's writing and preaching was designed to build a strong line of defense against tidal waves of influences which were subversive of the gospel. There was passion in the plea he made to Timothy. "O Timothy, guard that which is committed unto thee, turning away from the profane babblings and oppositions of the knowledge which is falsely so called; which some professing have erred concerning the faith." (1 Tim. 6:20, 21) The faith is a divine trust. It must be kept. It must be guarded. It is something precious. "Contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints." (Jude 3) The plea often made today that it makes little difference what one believes "just so he is honest in it" is pitiful when compared with the apostle's zeal for the faith. Had Paul turned aside from the faith to the advocacy of speculations and opinions, he could not have said: "I have kept the faith." Some make shipwreck of it, some compromise it, while others ignore it for "knowledge which is falsely so called." He who can at the end of his life says truthfully: "I have kept the faith" shares the supreme triumph that Paul gloried in.

"Henceforth." The years that were spent in keeping the faith were few and soon gone. The "henceforth" stretches out through eternity. Men are concerned about the now and exercise a fatal apathy regarding what will follow "henceforth." The word "crown" is impressive here. It will be given "to all them that have loved his appearing." An earthly crown is a symbol of wealth, power and rule. The heavenly crown stands for the eternal exaltation of the redeemed who shall live forever in the presence of the Lord and share his likeness and his glory. It is the passport to all that heaven is and has to offer to them whom the Lord bought with a price. It was real to Paul and unreal today only to those who are not keeping the faith.

"That day" is "the day of the Lord," the day when the Lord will come, raise the dead and judge the world. There will be a "henceforth" for all. It will be glory for all who have fought for and kept the faith. It will be otherwise for myriads who have turned aside for fables, sold out for a mess of pottage, or in other ways have shown their contempt for the faith. —- Bible Banner - March 1940

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The Folly of Worldliness

2009-02-03T18:36:00.001-08:00

by Jere Frost
www.cvillechurch.com

God calls upon us to be spiritually minded, to abhor what is evil and to cleave to what is good (Romans 12:1, 2). Yet temptations, both brazen and subtle, seek to steal away our hearts from the beauty and simplicity of divine truth and holy living. It was love for this present world that caused Demas to forsake the right way (2 Timothy 4:10).

Many professing Christ have been similarly enticed and enthralled by worldly desires. John gives us five reasons why it is sheer folly.

``Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever'' (I John 2:15-17).

1. He alienates himself from God. ``If any man love the world, the love of the father is not in him.''

It is impossible to love God and the world at the same time for they are utterly incompatible. Though we have the capacity to love either, seeing we have the power of choice, there is no way we can love both. The love of one precludes love of the other. The language can be even stronger.

When we walk in sin we not only demonstrate a lack of love for God, but we make ourselves an enemy. Note in the following passage that God is not set forth as the enemy of the sinner, but rather the sinner in his own mind is set forth as the enemy of God.

``And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled'' (Colossians 1:21). ``No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other, or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other'' (Matthew 6:24).

2. He is wrong. ``For all that is in the world is not of the Father, but is of the world.''

Everything that is ``of the world'' in the passage is that which appeals to the baser nature of man. It is therefore that which is low, selfish, unworthy and vain. All that it offers can be summarized in the three divinely made points: (1) lust of the flesh, (2) lust of the eyes, and (3) the pride of life.

By ``lust of the flesh'' we see the craving desire to indulge in sensuality and pleasure. It is low, disgraceful living. ``Lust of the eyes'' depicts essentially greed and covetousness, the eager desire to possess for the sake of possessing. The ``pride of life'' is the love of status and glory in the eyes of others. It is concerned with image, not character or usefulness. These three pictures show not only the vileness of our conduct, but the corruption of our hearts, when we let sin seize our souls.

3. It is temporary. ``The world passeth away, and the lust thereof.''

This plainly declares that there is no lasting gain or advantage in sin. The pleasures of sin, as Moses wisely discerned, are ``for a season'' (Hebrews 11:25). But the consequences are eternal, and they must be forever suffered in hell's agonies. An eternity lost! And for what? -- a moment's pleasure, a bauble that glitters, or a puffed-up pride.

4. There is a better way. ``But he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.''

This is the way of nobility and character. It is attended in life by a peace of mind and renders one useful to God and man in the highest sense. And seeing that it is God who made man, and who best knows man, and whose will is set forth as a guide for man, it naturally and necessarily follows that this is the only way man can attain a full measure of happiness and hope. Is it not the height of folly for a man to disdain and reject the privilege and pleasure of ``walking in the light'' with his God? Righteousness is infinitely better than a life of sin.

5. Eternal life. ``He that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.''

What a glorious triumph! This old earth, and all that pertains to it, is destroyed. The pleasures and lust of sinful society, ``the world,'' and now without attraction or appeal. The glitter is gone. But he that did the will of God abides, and his treasures survive the world, and he himself is clothed with a new body, like His, ``for we shall see him as he is'' and ``so shall we ever be with the Lord'' (I John 3:2; I Thess. 4:15-18).

Wherefore, brethren, love not the world, but rather love God with all your heart, soul and mind. You will be glad--both here and hereafter.

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Why Did You Send for Me?

2009-01-30T22:04:00.001-08:00

By Connie Adams
www.cvillechurch.com

On the instruction of an angel of God, Cornelius, the Roman centurion, sent men to Joppa to locate Simon Peter and bring him to the house of Cornelius. Peter himself had received a vision in which he was told not to call common or unclean what God had cleansed. The next day, Peter and six Jewish brethren accompanied these messengers to Caesarea to the house of the centurion. Upon arrival, they found a collection of kinsmen and friends of Cornelius. Peter said, "Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?" (Acts 10:29).

That was a fair question then and it is a fair one now when brethren send for a preacher either to come and live along them or for a gospel meeting. Sometimes the expectations of the preacher and those of the people who sent for him are not the same. Therein lies the cause of misunderstandings, friction, and sometimes division.

Why He Did NOT Send For Peter

Peter did not come to be idolized and venerated and to establish a cult built around his personality. In fact, when Cornelius fell down before Peter when he arrived, Peter quickly told him to "stand up; I myself also am a man" (v. 26). There is no indication that Peter delayed for a few moments to savor this adulation. If a preacher comes to a place expecting to be put on some sort of pedestal to be adored but never questioned, then there are going to be some rough times. There is something wrong with the general view that the preacher alone is responsible for the success or failure of the work. He may well be a contributing factor in either case, but the work must not be built around him. Peter was a messenger of the gospel. The message was not his. He was obligated to deliver it without change.

He did not send for Peter to entertain and amuse himself, his kindred or his friends with bursts of eloquence, one‑liners, and pitiful stories to make them cry. The motive in sending for him was much nobler than that. Sadly, that is what untaught or worldly-minded church members want and expect. They will come in droves to hear such delivered by gifted speakers but they will stay away when such adornments are missing.

He did not send for Peter to take over his God‑given responsibilities. That is what some think the work of a preacher to be. They want an official socializer who will be visible at all the right times and places to enhance the image of the church before the world. You know, someone who can convince the community that he is a "good-ole boy." They want someone to do all their personal work for them. Sometimes brethren will advertise for a preacher and will say "it doesn't matter if he is able in the pulpit as long as he is a good personal worker." Is this an advertisement for mediocrity in the pulpit? Paul told Timothy to commit what he had learned to "faithful men who shall be able to teach others also" (2 Tim. 2:2). Does this mean that a man is expected to do his part personally in teaching the lost, or does it mean that they are going to fulfill their work by proxy through this hired hand? Cornelius did not depend on Peter, after his arrival to round up his relatives and friends. He did that himself.

He did not send for Peter to organize sports and entertainment for the young people. Peter was not expected to organize some sort of mountain or wilderness survival expedition or lead an adventure to see who could be the first to cross the Mediterranean in a rowboat. He was not to arrange for surfing contests down at the sea. No, his motives were higher than that.

Why DID He Send For Peter?

The angel had said to Cornelius that "he shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved" (Acts 11:14). That very statement told Cornelius that he and his house were lost. The means out of that peril involved the speaking of words. Notice that the angel did not tell him what to do. That was not in the divine plan. God purposed to use human agency in delivering the necessary words. "Preach the word" (2 Tim 4:2). This same Peter said once, "Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life" (John 6:68). Such words are of the utmost importance and urgency. They must be heard at all cost. "Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God" (Rom. 10:17).

Cornelius said, "Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God" (Acts 10:33).

Observe that he sent "immediately." It could not wait. "Thou hast done well that thou art come." Cornelius did his part in sending for Peter. Peter did his part by coming even though his entrance into that house violated every principle of separateness that Peter as a Jew had always observed. Both men showed great faith in God. The Lord's plan was to bring a faithful messenger of the word together with a man and his house which needed to hear the message. That is how it worked with the Ethiopian treasurer in Acts 8, with the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, with the conversion of Lydia and her house, and other cases in the book of Acts. A faithful preacher was brought together with honest hearts ready to receive the word.

Cornelius and his house were ready to "hear all things commanded thee of God." How refreshing. If all preachers would go with the determination to deliver a "thus saith the Lord" and be prepared to produce the very place in Scripture where the Lord said it and then had an audience with the mind set of Cornelius and those he gathered to hear Peter, think what great things could be done for the Lord. Maybe I am missing something, but it appears to me that many congregational troubles and stress in the lives of preachers, grow out of a failure of either the preacher to faithfully deliver the message or the audience who arrives with a desire for something other than that message.

Do you have a preacher living and working among you? Why did you send for him? Preacher, why did you go?

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"Forbid Him Not"

2009-01-26T13:52:00.000-08:00

by Tim Nichols
www.cvillechurch.com

These verses are in the context of a discussion that Jesus was having with the twelve apostles. They had been arguing among themselves about who among them "should be the greatest"
(Mark 9:34). Human ambition was even a problem among those closest to our Lord. Jesus explained to them that those who would be "first" would have to give up all effort and desire to be elevated above others and, instead, become the servant of all. To illustrate the point, Jesus set a child in the midst of them, took the child in His arms, and said, Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name , receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me (Mark 9:37).

This scene ought to have a great impact upon our own minds. Those who would seek to become "big men in the brotherhood" should either change their goal or leave the brotherhood of God's children. The world has corporate ladders to climb, fancy titles to offer, lofty positions for which to compete, and abundant opportunities to become distinguished above your fellow, -- but the ground is level at the foot of the cross. All available positions are positions of humble service. Those who stoop to help others are those who stand tallest in the sight of our Father. Selfish ambition must be surrendered at the door of the kingdom for selfless service.

Something that Jesus had said apparently caught John's attention. It almost seems that John had not picked up on the main point that Jesus was making. It may be that John was becoming uncomfortable with the implications of the main point and that he was steering the discussion toward a lesser point.

Jesus had just made reference to doing a good thing in His name. John apparently thought of something that he had been wanting to say to Jesus.

And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us (Mark 9:38).

John's comment seems to betray another aspect of the same problem. The apostles had just been disputing "among themselves" (9:34) concerning who should be greatest among them. Jesus had, in effect, said that none of them should even want to be greatest or try to become "first apostle". Now John reveals that he and the other apostles had seen a man who was not an apostle casting out devils in the name of Christ. They told the man to stop doing this because he was not one of the apostles.

Notice that the man was apparently successfully casting out devils in the name of Christ. To do a thing in the name of Christ is to do it by His authority and to His glory. Men may claim to do any number of things in the name of Christ, but they are mistaken if they think that they can do what Christ has not taught them to do and, at the same time, act in the name of Christ. If a man knocks on my door and demands that I open it in the name of the law he had better be ready to show me a badge giving him the authority to make such a demand. Anytime a person claims to be doing a thing in the name of Christ we ought to be prepared to ask for the scripture that authorizes him or her to act.

Apparently Christ had authorized a non-apostle to cast out devils. According to Luke 10:17, Jesus had given such authority to seventy disciples. It seems that the apostles had come upon one who truly had authority to cast out devils and that they had taken it upon themselves to forbid him.

But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is on our part. For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward (Mark 9:39-41).

The apostles had made the mistake of assuming too much concerning this man. He was doing his work (apparently rightly) in the name of Christ. When God looks at a man there is no ambiguity concerning his spiritual state. There are no "fence-sitters". There is no neutral ground (Matthew 12:30; Luke 11:23; 16:13). Those who passively ignore the will of God are just as much "against" Christ as those who aggressively pursue evil (2 Thessalonians 2:10-17; 1 John 2:21-26).

Some have used these words of Christ to argue that God approves of various denominations and a wider range of religious teachings than we might imagine. They are mistaken. Today, we can discover whether or not any religious teaching or practice has the authority of Christ by consulting His last will and testament. The apostles should have consulted Jesus directly before they judged this man to be an impostor. If we have learned the lesson that they should have learned from this incident we will not judge anyone out of jealous motives but we will always judge on the basis of God's revealed word.

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity" (Matthew 7:21-23).

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Awareness of Weakness is the Key to Strength

2009-01-19T10:17:00.000-08:00

by Tim Nichols
www.cvillechurch.com

The world has it all backwards. Most seem to think that we can accomplish great things when we become the strongest, wisest, smartest, and most beautiful. Worldly achievement may well depend on some of these things to some degree. Even there, however, there is room for using the principles that we will discuss here.

Our work for the Lord is not in the same category and the approach that we take in that work is altogether different from what many would commend in worldly pursuits. Here, the principle might be stated something like this: Recognize that you are weak and unable to do it alone, trust God, and set out to do it.

The notion that we ought to wait until we, ourselves, are wise enough or strong enough before we set out to obey God is simply unbiblical. Although it is right and reasonable to obtain training and to prepare ourselves as best we can, it is also true that the time to begin doing the will of God is the moment we learn what that will is regarding any matter. God will guide, strengthen, and comfort us by His word, assist us by His providence, and bless our efforts with success. He will give the increase.

When God told Moses leave the desert to go back to Egypt and lead the children of Israel out, Moses protested that he was not equal to the task. God did not argue with that point. Instead, He promised to go with him and assured him of success. In effect He said, "I will meet you back here with My people!"

But Moses said to God, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?'' So He said, "I will certainly be with you. And this shall be a sign to you that I have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God on this mountain'' (Exodus 3:11, 12).

Joshua, as great a man as he no doubt was in his person, was not equal to the task of conquering the land when that assignment was given to him. God seems to have suggested that inherent in the command to act is the promise of aid.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9).

Jeremiah could not get away with declaring that his personal weakness disqualified him.
Then said I: "Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.'' But the Lord said to me: "Do not say, `I am a youth,' for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you,'' says the Lord. Then the Lord put forth His hand and touched my mouth, and the Lord said to me: "Behold, I have put My words in your mouth (Jeremiah 1:6-9).

Paul so relied upon God's guidance, and so looked beyond passing difficulties that he could declare that his work was actually God's work being done through his willing hands.

But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me (1 Corinthians 15:10).

Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God (2 Corinthians 3:5).

Isaiah gave a command and a principle that will hold true for all time and under every covenant. Are we listening?

Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are fearful-hearted, "Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God; He will come and save you'' (Isaiah 35:3, 4).

He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall, But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint (Isaiah 40:29-31).

Paul actually reached the point at which he was able to see that he could only be strong when he was weak.

And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.'' Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong (2 Corinthians 12:7-10).

Now how about you? Are you aware of your own weaknesses? Good! You have reason to be genuinely humble. Are you allowing these weaknesses to keep you out of God's service? If so, then you need to trust God and proceed, in spite of what you may see as personal inability, to attempt what you know you cannot do -- by yourself.

The Light Near Damascus

2009-01-12T11:23:00.001-08:00

by W. Curtis Porter
www.cvillechurch.com

Not long after the church was established in Jerusalem a great persecution arose that scattered the disciples abroad. The opposing Jews wished to stamp out the religion of Jesus Christ, and they expected persecution to accomplish their desires. But the dispersion of the church meant the increase and growth of the Lord's cause.

In the work of persecution no name is more prominent than the name of Saul of Tarsus. "He made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison" (Acts 8:3). He was not content to persecute the Lord's disciples in his own city, but went even to strange cities. On a mission of persecution we find Saul, with some companions, on the way to the city of Damascus. As they neared the city, there was a great demonstration. In the language of Saul himself, we have it related this way: "And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light about me" (Acts 22:6).

With respect to this heavenly light, the questions are often asked, "What was its purpose? Why did this light shine about Saul?" Some have thought it was evidence of his salvation and they have often insisted that such has been experienced by them. This, however, is a mistaken idea. The light did not shine around Saul as an evidence of his salvation. Neither did it appear for the purpose of saving him. I know that this heavenly light led, even directly, to his conversion, but that was not the purpose of the light. To understand the purpose of this light, we must keep some divine statements in mind. These may be found in the following:

During the personal ministry of Christ He selected a number of men to be His witnesses to the uttermost parts of the earth. These He called "apostles." While the two words, of course, are not synonymous, they are applied to the same men. Apostles are those who are sent. Witnesses are those who testify of things they know from what they have seen. But the two words are so used of the same men that we almost think of them as interchangeable terms.

The apostles were to go into all the world to preach the gospel, and in so doing they were to testify concerning Christ. Hence, Peter declared, "Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead" (Acts 10:40-42). There can be no doubt that the witnesses here mentioned were the apostles whom the Lord had chosen, and to them the Lord declared, "Ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth" (Acts 1:8).

But for a man to be a witness of the Lord he must be qualified, and an essential qualification for a witness was that he must see the Lord after His resurrection. How could one testify that God had raised up Christ from the dead unless one saw Him after His resurrection? The necessity of this is shown in the proceedings by which one was selected to take the place of Judas. Judas was one of the apostles — one of those chosen to be witnesses. Therefore, someone who could testify of the resurrection of Christ was selected to be his successor. The divine record says concerning the matter, "Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection" (Acts 1:21-22). As a result, Matthias was chosen. He could be a "witness of the resurrection" because he had seen the Lord after His resurrection — he was with them until the Lord was taken up from among them. No one then could be an apostle — a witness — unless he had seen the risen Lord. Keep this in mind as we study Saul.

The divine record tells us in plain words the purpose of that light — if we understand what caused the light. Jesus appeared to Saul as he neared Damascus. When He appeared, it was a glorious appearance. The glory of Jesus was so great that Saul was stricken blind. "And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus" (Acts 22:11). It was at this time that he saw Jesus, and His glory was so great that the physical eyes of Saul could not endure it.

Let us read the purpose of this appearance of the Lord. Was it to give proof of Saul's salvation? What was its purpose? When Saul reached Damascus and there waited for information that had been promised him, we learn the Lord sent Ananias, a disciple in that city, to him. Here's what he said to Saul when he arrived: "The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard" (Acts 22:14-15). How could Saul be His witness without seeing Him? He could not.

If we need it to be made any plainer to us, it is made so in Acts 26. Reading verse 16, we find the language of Saul as he later rehearses the matter, giving the Lord's words as they were spoken to him: "But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose..." Here we have it. The Lord is actually telling the "purpose" of His appearance to Saul — "I have appeared unto thee for this purpose." For what purpose? To save him? To prove he was already saved? No. For what purpose then? "I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee."

The light was caused by the glory of the Lord. It shone in splendor because the Lord was there. The light appeared because the Lord appeared, but the Lord appeared to Saul to qualify him as a witness for Him. He must go out to testify of the risen Christ as an apostle to the Gentiles. Consequently we later hear Paul emphasizing his apostleship by a series of questions: "Am I not an apostle? Am I not free? Have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord?" (1 Cor. 9:1). He had seen Jesus. He saw Him near Damascus, and was therefore qualified to be an apostle — a witness. For this reason the Lord appeared to him. This was the purpose of the light.

No such demonstration ever occurred in the conversion of any other man. There is a reason for it. All the other apostles had seen the Lord while He was on the earth. They also saw Him after His resurrection and before He ascended. No later appearance to them was necessary. But Saul did not see Him after He arose, and he had to see Him at a later day in order to testify. No witnesses have been chosen since Saul was chosen, and no such light has ever occurred in the conversion of any man since. There is no need for such today, for witnesses are not now being selected. It will not occur in your case.

Tune-in to Bible Talk

Every Sunday 12:35-1:00 PM

WINA 1070 AM, Charlottesville, VA

For Past Program Archives go to:

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Do We Love Each Other as we do Ourselves?

2009-01-03T10:18:00.001-08:00

by Chris Carter
www.cvillechurch.com

In today’s church there is increasing evidence that spiritual love is in serious decline among the brethren. Our attitude toward one another should one be of deep concern and love, for our brethren are a spiritual family and worthy of this honor (Rom 12:10). By frequently and sincerely demonstrating love we not only edify ourselves individually and each other collectively (Rom 15:2) but also perform an important work expected of the Lords church. As members of His church we set an example to each other and to ourselves that builds us up in the kind of love that God showed towards all men, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for our sins. We know that God showed His love for man by sending His Son to die for all, and Jesus showed His love by suffering and dying for all. What then can possibly be expected of God’s children other than to treat each other and those outside of salvation with the same love God showed to us, who also once were without hope? If we set the proper example through sincere love (Rom 12:9) not only will we be built up and edified (Rom 15:2) but the world will “see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Mt 5:16).

We should have the willingness to drop our schedules to aid, teach and edify each other, the courage to confess our sins one to another or pluck one from the fire if they are lost, and to esteem others greater than ourselves, as we are commanded to do. We must want to know our brothers and sisters, and be willing to pray without ceasing for them, and serve them without thought of recognition. In doing these things we will give and receive all the benefits that come from Godly behavior, and glorify His name.

A loveless church faces many difficulties. Often, when brethren cease to regard one another as members of a holy family, and instead take an adversarial stance, a foundation is laid that Satan can easily build on. He simply takes our various weaknesses and uses them to promote mistrust, hurt feelings and anger, until the obvious outcome is realized. No creature feeding upon itself can long survive as the whole creature it once was. It is said that if a rabbit is caught in a spring trap it may gnaw it’s own leg off in order to escape, yet how long it can survive is debatable. At the very least it won’t hop the way it once did. The same analogy can be made of a congregation feeding upon itself by biting at one another like wild beasts. Someone may be devoured (spiritually lost, Gal 5:15) because love is not shown, or serious wounds may occur that would render a church or individual of less than full service to God. And consumed unto death no service to God will be rendered. The ultimate conclusion that must then be drawn is this: If love is not demonstrated then God is not served and the evil one, Satan, becomes the one being served. I can imagine him standing outside the window of a church in conflict, in evil delight savoring the harm he is achieving through loveless brethren. So, the love we are to have and the proper esteeming and honoring of one another cannot be overemphasized.

Which one of us hasn’t imagined that we would, on penalty of death, openly defend and die for the name of Christ? How is it then that we would dishonor His name, and make a mockery of God’s grace by manifesting contrary behavior? Can our fellow partakers, the church or we be edified by such behavior? Even in the presence of young children behavior will be demonstrated that is not Christ like, and by not being Christ like behavior it can only be described as sinful behavior. “But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of hellfire.” (Mt 5:22) Children invariably do what they see.

The problem then is one of not allowing ourselves to be lead by the Spirit (Rom 8:1) so that righteousness may be seen in us. If righteousness is not manifest, then what is manifest is unrighteousness, and this harms not only us but the cause of Christ as well. Ephesians 4:31-32 says thusly “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”

Suppose someone within or without the law of Christ wrongs us. Are we justified in using some form of retaliation? Look to God’s word for the answer. “Vengeance is mine, saith the Lord.” No matter what they did to us, it is not for us to take revenge on the wrongdoer (Romans 12:17) or treat them without love. If instead, being led by the Spirit we manifest love in our response then we will not transgress as well. The person who wronged us either will heap coals of fire on their own head (Romans 12:20) by reviling us further, or will see our Godly behavior and consider the need for repentance. In the latter instance then the transgressor, the church, those of the world and we will be edified by Godly behavior, and God’s name will be glorified before everyone. All of this by simply turning the cheek of wrath and suffering the wrong (as did Christ) instead of avenging ourselves of every slight and indignity. Remember Stephen as he was about to be stoned. Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice. “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this he fell asleep (Acts 7:60).

We must not forget to contend for the truth while showing love. One problem many denominations have created for themselves is in placing love above obedience. In pie-eyed fashion they will proclaim “God loves everyone! Look at John 3:16.” They will go on about how “Jesus taught love and compassion,” as if this were the do all and be all of spirituality. Of course He taught these things, but He also spoke and did the will of the Father, who too requires us to speak and do His will, and in so doing we remain reconciled to Him. In the denominational world and unfortunately, in some of Christ’s churches the need to be obedient is being ignored, and all manner of apostasy is being tolerated in the name of love, the idea being that we have no right to judge another’s spiritual conduct. It is not a matter of right but of duty and love. Remember how Paul criticized the Corinthian church for tolerating the presence of the man who had his fathers’ wife? When we ignore open sin we do not perform our duty to God or show love to the errant one. If He, being mindful of man’s sin, had not given His Son out of love, what would our condition be today? And as to contending for the faith, many avoid this responsibility because they fear being labeled as trouble makers’ and contentious. Christ suffered far greater indignities. Whether we contend for Gods’ truth or not, we will face it in the judgment. What will be the outcome for those who stand idly by?

When cliques form in a church love is not well shown. It is entirely natural, for example, for the older folks, the young parents or the military members to be drawn to one another. They share much in common, but they should not exclude others from their “inner circle” because they don’t have the same background. I don’t have a formal education, and I work in a blue collar trade. Does that make me less than the educator or the white collar professional? Because I am middle aged, do I have nothing in common with a teenager, or a sister who is twenty years my senior? God forbid! Thanks be to Him because we have a relationship with each other as a holy family, for we share a great common bond in Christ Jesus, buried with Him in baptism and raised up in newness of life as heirs of adoption, and this fact alone should transcend all attempts to group us separately. Please, don’t fall prey to only associating with those with whom you feel the most comfortable. Every faithful member brings something of value to the spiritual table. Let us regard these gifts as great blessings’ from God, and not as differences to be avoided.

If we claim Christ, we claim His love and we claim to love. If we are unwilling to know and love the brethren then what mercy can we realistically expect in the judgment? Are our brethren and we merely strangers on an elevator? We all need to ask ourselves this question. Would we show love and compassion for another as the good Samaritan did to the man who had been robbed, or would we be like the priest and Levite? (Luke 10:25-37) What if we were the one lying in the road?

I Can't Overcome the Past

2009-01-01T19:29:00.000-08:00

by Gardner Hall
www.cvillechurch.com

A very popular excuse for lack of repentance

Why is this one of Satan's favorite lies?

"I have felt these tendencies since I was a child," declare some homosexuals. "I could never be anything different."

"Everyone in my family has a hot temper," says a divisive brother. "That's just the way I am."
With similar statements, we excuse our lack of repentance for vices and bad attitudes, presenting ourselves as helpless victims of past experiences. In doing so, we disregard the regenerating power of the gospel to make us new creatures in Christ's image.

My Past May Leave Me With Obstacles and Thorns

The scriptures acknowledge that sin we have committed as well as that committed against us leaves scars, pain and difficult obstacles. Old Testament characters like Leah, Jephtah, Tamar and Hosea must have struggled mightily to overcome rejection and abuse. Paul's persecution of others left him in such deep anguish that he referred to himself as "chief of sinners." (I Timothy 1:15)

Though we are put off by the growing number of whiners and "victims," Christians must not overreact to such by becoming cynical and harsh towards those who are suffering. Impatiently telling those with spiritual wounds to "fess up" or "snap out of it," is not following Christ's teaching or example. (Luke 6:36; James 2:13, etc.) Such severe and unfeeling responses are like those of Job's "friends" and are prevalent in the cults of control like the Boston Movement. Firmness in proclaiming the need for repentance or perseverance, should not be incompatible with gentleness and love.

All Can Be Controlled and Overcome

Though my past can leave me scarred, the good news is that through Christ's death, all can be forgiven. Through His sanctifying Word, old spiritual bugaboos can be controlled and eventually overcome. The New Testament is filled with references to the power of the gospel to change lives.

· The gospel is the "power of God unto salvation" (Rom. 1:16)

· "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power..." (2 Tim. 1:7)

· Paul prayed to Him "who is able to do abundantly above all that we ask or think according to the power that works in us." (Eph. 3:20)

· Paul was confident that the Colossians would be "strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power." (Col. 1:11)

New Testament examples abound of those who overcame sinful pasts to become pure and powerful servants of Jesus.

· The apostle Paul was cleansed and forgiven for participating in the persecution and death of faithful Christians. Murderers of Christians can overcome their past through the grace of God!

· The Thessalonians "turned to God from idols." (I Thess. 1:9) Pagan idol worshippers can overcome their past!

· Peter overcame his impulsiveness to be a pillar among God's people. Those who are impulsive can overcome their past.

· Some of the Corinthians had been "fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, homosexuals, sodomites, thieves, covetous, drunkards, revilers and extortioners" but they were washed, sanctified and justified in the name of the Lord. (I Cor. 6:9-11) Homosexuals, fornicators, drug addicts (drunkards) and others entangled in ungodly lifestyles can overcome their past!
Modern Examples

The gospel of Christ is still powerful today to free from the past those who are willing to turn to the Him. The lives of close friends illustrate the point:

"Jane" (not her real name) never knew who her father was. Her mother chased her out of the house telling her that she didn't want her around. Often Jane sorted through garbage to find something to eat. Today Jane is a happy, faithful Christian and a dear friend who has blessed hundreds of people.

Matt was a faithful member of a congregation here in the Northeast who moved to another state. Several years ago he wrote an article in "Sentry Magazine," confessing homosexual tendencies that came from a troubled childhood, but relating at the same time about learning to control them by applying Biblical principles in his life.

Other close friends have learned to deal with alcoholism, religious error, uncontrollable tempers, despair from death of loved ones and every imaginable blow that Satan could deliver. Their purity and hope in spite of grievous spiritual wounds, both self inflicted and those delivered by others, reassure us that the gospel is still powerful to free from the past today just as it was in the first century!

With God's grace and power along with our genuine repentance and determination to take responsibility for our lives, even the most vile impulses can be controlled and eventually overcome. The deepest and most painful wounds can begin to heal. The idea that our past cannot be dealt with, is a lie of Satan, designed to keep us enchained to him. All things can become new in Christ and we can be white and pure as snow through Him. Never forget, there's soul cleansing power in the blood of the Lamb!

Tune-in to Bible Talk

Every Sunday 12:35-1:00 PM

WINA 1070 AM, Charlottesville, VA

For Past Program Archives go to:

www.BibleTalkNow.com

To be a part of the Program call our Bible Talk line at:

(434) 975-7373 and leave a question or a comment.

Call Anytime!

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The Foundation of Spirituality -- Honesty

2008-12-16T08:06:00.001-08:00

by Larry Rouse
www.cvillechurch.com

Why does the preaching of the gospel seem not to be effective in our society today? We know that God’s word has not changed, nor has its power (Rom 1:16). We are assured by God that His word will never return to Him void, but it will always accomplish the purpose for which He sent it (Isa 55:11). Today, with this present generation, as it has in past generations, the word of God is able to expose hearts and allow men to choose light or darkness (Jn 3:19-21). This choice depends upon the kind of heart a man possesses.

When Jesus described the kind of heart in which the word of God would be received and would prosper, He described it as “good and honest” (Lk 8:15 KJV). Will a man choose light or darkness, honesty or dishonesty? If a man decides that he “hates the light” then God will let him “believe a lie” and will not do anything further other than the presentation of His word (2 Thess 2:10-11).

We must fight the temptation to be dishonest

The battle for honesty lasts a lifetime. God emphatically warns the Christian to guard his heart and to keep it pure. “Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds” (Col 3:9). God has plainly told us: “He who works deceit shall not dwell within my house; He who tells lies shall not continue in my presence” (Psa 101:7).

The nature of man has not changed. Without continual exposure to the word of God, men’s hearts will be pulled back to self-justification and blindness (Prov 16:2; Jer 17:10-11). Why do men prefer dishonesty? Psychologists suggest that men tend to make up the reasons for their behaviors after they do them, and that their “reasons” and behavior usually have nothing to do with each other.

King Saul was a prime example of a good man who gave in to dishonesty to his own destruction. Do you remember the various explanations that he made to Samuel when he was confronted about his direct disobedience to God’s command (1 Sam 15:3, 15, 20-21)? “I was going to sacrifice them! No, wait, it was the people that did it!” Finally, after a spiritual wrestling match, Saul admits his sin, but without true repentance! Saul thought that his outward confession without a changed heart would put him right with God. In this he had deceived himself! This pattern would remain throughout Saul’s life.

We must recognize dishonesty

God’s love will lead us to look to the good in others. Indeed, we want to believe the best about others and not be quick to judge another’s actions without sufficient evidence. Nonetheless, the Bible is filled with warnings concerning those who would deliberately mislead us and the kind of tactics they will use to accomplish this task. “That we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting” (Eph 4:14). “These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage” (Jude 16).

It is a difficult thing for good and honest Christians to see the deceit and manipulation from those who have a hidden agenda to pull others into their circle. Flattery is first used to gain a closer association and trust. Then lies are told in secret to inflame emotions and close minds (Prov 18:19). Finally, these men succeed in having their new disciples cut off association with their former brethren without so much as talking about these newly discovered “differences” over an open Bible (Gal 4:16-17).

A commitment to honesty will keep us from these “closed door decisions” that result in one “cutting and running.” Instead we will openly discuss and test those who have beliefs that they say are of God (1 Jn 4:1). Also, we will not accept testimony about the personal actions of another without first giving that person a chance to defend himself (Prov 18:17; Mt 18:15-17)!

Pride always leads to dishonesty

Those who do not know God cannot stand to look at themselves honestly. The driving force behind pride is the desire to be recognized and have praise because we wish to appear to be something that we are not. “For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself” (Gal 6:3). Those that follow this path must wear a mask. They must fight to “keep up appearances” and work to tear others down so that they can receive this vain and temporary recognition of men. There is a better way to live your life!

God’s forgiveness allows us to be honest

God sees me as I am, and, in spite of that, He loves me and seeks my best. “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom 5:8). God sees the darkness of my sin and has provided a sacrifice that will wash away my sins and restore my relationship with Him (Rom 3:23; 6:23). What do I need to do? I need to be honest! I must see my own sin and make no excuses. The love of God must move me to change my heart in repentance that will result in a changed life. I then will take the final step in water baptism, yielding my body to a burial and resurrection like the Lord’s (Rom 6:3-5). I now am the Lord’s, not because I am perfect, but because I am forgiven and have yielded my heart to Him (Acts 2:38-39).

The Christian life is characterized by the forgiveness of God. Rather than run from my shortcomings, I can now run to God for a greater sight and to seek His help in growing to be something more in His service. I come to love the truth, to love bold and honest preaching because it allows me to see what God already sees and what I need to know. Most of all, I am thankful that God’s word is able to penetrate my heart when it drifts into dishonesty and point me back to Him. “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account” (Heb 4:12-13).

Be honest. Are you genuinely serving the Lord with all of your heart (2 Cor 13:5)?
“He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy” (Prov 28:13).

Why So Many Translations?

2008-12-08T18:51:00.000-08:00

by Jon W. Quinn
www.cvillechurch.com

"Why are there all those translations?" How do we know that mistakes have not crept in over the last 1900 years? Which translation is best? Why? And what makes a bad translation bad?

First, we can have confidence that accurate and reliable translations are available for us today. The Lord would not go to so much trouble to send us His word only to have it become so muddled that we could not know it. In fact He has made us that very promise; that we would always have His word (Matthew 24:35; 1 Peter 1:23-25; Isaiah 55:10, 11).

But Jesus meant His gospel to go into the whole world (Matthew 28:18-20). This meant that it must be translated into the different languages of the nations of the world, those that were and those who were yet to be. Jesus even read from a translation! Luke records that in Nazareth, Jesus did not read from the original Hebrew but from the Septuagint, which was a Greek translation of the Scriptures (Luke 4:17-19).

The Original Manuscripts of the New Testament

"When you come bring the cloak which I left at Troas with Carpus, and the books, especially the parchments." (2 Timothy 4:13).

The original manuscripts were those that the original authors, Peter, James, Paul, Luke and others, wrote down by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Paul, in the above verse, asks Timothy to bring the "parchments" with him. Parchments were treated animal skins used as we would use paper. Sometimes, papyrus was used instead, but was less durable. The Scriptures that became our New Testament were originally written in Greek and sent out into the world, first to the intended recipient (individuals such as Titus, Timothy, Gaius or Theophilus; or churches such as Corinth or Rome; or groups such as the Hebrews). These would be read, copied and passed on to others, who would do likewise.

Copying the Originals

"And when this letter is read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodeceans; and you, for your part read my letter that is coming from the Laodeceans." (Colossians 4:16; cf. Galatians 1:2).

Copies had to be made if there were to be multiple recipients. First century Christians became very busy reading and copying Scriptures. Sometimes they would do so individually, but sometimes they would have a reader and a roomful of writers. Because they were so prolific, even today there exists over 5500 Greek manuscripts, 2,000 early translations, 8,000 Latin translations, and numerous quotes from the early Scriptures in other writings. These date back to the end of the first century, and it is possible that we have some dating to about 60-70 AD. When translations are made today into English, it is these early manuscripts that are used.

English Translations

"Now these were more noble minded than those at Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily, to see whether these things were so." (Acts 17:11).

It was very unusual for the common people to possess the Scriptures in their native tongue during the middle ages. This is because church authorities had decided that they had a monopoly on the right to read the Bible. It was not for the common folk. Of course, this violates the very spirit of the principle set forth in the above quoted Bible verse.

John Wycliffe translated the Bible into Old English about 1300 A.D. At this time, the Catholic Church had made reading the Bible punishable by death. But there was a hunger and thirst for reading the word of God, and many would not be thwarted even in the face of such persecution.
In all of these source texts (the original Greek manuscripts from which translators work), about 7/8th of the material is in agreement. Of the remaining 1/8th, most differences are insignificant. For example, some read "church of God" while others read "church of the Lord" which is not significant because the Lord is God. Of the remaining 1/460th differences that are "significant" it is easy to compare all the manuscripts and see where the mistake was made. If you have 4,000 manuscripts reading one way, and 2 reading another way, you translate using the 4,000, not the 2.

What Makes a Good translation?

"And by referring to this, when you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ." (Ephesians 3:4).

Of course, as suggested above, a good translation had s to be understandable to its intended audience. But just being easy to understand does not necessarily make it a good translation.
To be a good translation, there must be the following three things:

1. Good Sources: This would mean having access to early Greek manuscripts, the more the better, as well as early Latin translations and early quotes. But the manuscripts are the most important.

2. Good Method: Will the translators be highly literal, or will they take liberties with the text adding words that "help" folks understand the text? The more liberties they take, the more likely their own doctrinal prejudices will sneak in.

3. Good Translators: This would mean those who are knowledgeable, who have access to good source documents and are honest. Many translators from multiple backgrounds help insure against doctrinal bias.

A translation that is easy to understand and meets the above three qualifications is a good translation. You can trust its message for what it really is - the word of God.

Tune-in to Bible Talk

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The Lord's Supper or a Marathon?

2008-12-03T11:45:00.001-08:00

by Larry Rouse
www.cvillechurch.com

On the night of His betrayal and in the very shadow of the cross itself, Jesus called his disciples together and expressed a strong desire of His heart. “Then He said to them, With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I say to you, I will no longer eat of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” (Luke 22:15-16) What made this particular Passover so important was that Jesus Himself would become the fulfillment of the Passover lamb the very next day as He would shed his blood for our salvation. Also, all disciples in every generation, would remember this event with Jesus as they partake of the Lord’s Supper in the kingdom of God. When Jesus instituted this supper after partaking of the Passover, He was giving instructions that all who would ever love the Lord would also observe it with a strong fervor.

The early Christians were taught by the Apostle Paul, “For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.”” (1 Corinthians 11:23-25)

The occasion was a very serious one. Those who partake of this supper without a heart attuned to the meaning of Jesus’ death and the great commitment that it demands, are in fact committing a great act of ingratitude and irreverence towards God, as well as hardening their own hearts during a time when it should have been made tender. “Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be `guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body” (1 Corinthians 11:27-29). You can also show this irreverence in choosing not to be present to partake!

The early church, through the instructions of the Apostles, made the Lord’s Supper a centerpiece of their worship. On the Day of Pentecost, after Peter had preached the gospel and 3,000 were baptized, we read about the careful instruction these new disciples were given. “They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” (Acts 2:42)

When the apostle Paul came to Troas, he met with the church there on the first day of the week and partook of the Lord’s Supper with them. “Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight.” (Acts 20:7) Sunday, the first day of the week, is the day that Jesus was raised from the dead, the day that the Lord’s Church was established (Acts 2), and is the day that early Christians assembled to remember our Lord in this supper. As a Christian, when the first day of the week comes around, one should make plans and will give diligence to be with fellow Christians to remember our Lord.

How should we as Christians treat other events that would cause us to miss an assembly with Christians? Let me share with you a story. In the summer of 2001 I attended a very public news conference in downtown Birmingham where it was announced that a new Marathon was to be held, the Mercedes Marathon. Running is my favorite sport and I had always wanted to be able to run a marathon in Birmingham but was unable to, since in the past, previous marathons were run on Sunday. I approached the man who would be in charge of the event and asked him on what day would the marathon be held. He replied that it would always be on a Sunday in February. My heart dropped and I knew that any future marathons for me would have to be in another town and on a Saturday.

Did I make the right decision?

I have always believed that in serving the Lord, the priorities in my life are shown in decisions like these. In the Sunday morning assembly I am not only meeting with the saints for my edification, but the Lord Himself is there as well. He is the unseen presence when I sing, pray and partake of that sacred supper. Could I miss this occasion to participate in any sporting event? I cannot imagine any faithful Christian allowing worldly things like these to take a greater priority.

In the early 1980’s there was a movie called “Chariots of Fire” that depicted a true story of a man who qualified to run in the Olympics, but discovered on the boat to the event that he would have to run a race on a Sunday. Under enormous pressure and public scrutiny, He refused to participate. While his reasoning that “Sunday is the Sabbath” was wrong, I did agree with the stand that he took. The world did not understand his position and subjected him to ridicule and scorn, but those today who understand the nature of faith can identify with his stand.

Are those who wear the name of Christ today becoming ashamed of such a stand?

It is becoming more common to hear of Christians missing “just one service” to participate in local races, soccer games and other voluntary events. Sometimes they are raising money for a worthy cause and sometimes they are there to be with friends. Often family members and friends are invited to watch the game or assist in some other way. Those who are raising money often have websites, e-mails and handouts proclaiming what they are doing in advance and asking others to contribute money and to be in partnership with them.

Couldn't these things be done on another day? Going to another city to run a race on another day, or simply asking friends to donate to the cause without running in the event are easy solutions among others. Our children need to be taught the importance of priorities and miss games that conflict with the “Lord’s team.”

One thing is for sure, your decision makes a statement. The more public that decision means the more public your statement is. Let this be what you proclaim: “For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes.” (1 Corinthians 11:26)

When May a Christian Woman Speak

2008-11-19T10:21:00.001-08:00

by Tim Nichols
http://www.cvillechurch.com/

I have been asked to address this topic and I am pleased to do so. It may be that this will not answer some more specific questions that some would like to have answered. Although I am aware that questions exist in the minds of some, I have not yet been made aware of precisely what those questions are. So I will begin with a "shotgun" approach to the broader question in the hopes that more specific questions will be answered in the process. If questions remain I hope that they will be asked in more specific terms. We will be pleased to attempt an answer when such questions are received.

Women spoke with Divine approval on several occasions during the life of Christ. The woman of Canaan had a verbal and public exchange with Christ that demonstrated her faith and won the approval of our Lord (Matthew 15:21-28). Martha spoke to him in the context of a "Bible study" and received instruction (Luke 10:38-42). Jesus had another "Bible study" with the woman at the well in which she was free to ask and answer questions (John 4:7-29). Jesus had a verbal exchange with Mary Magdalene in which He instructed her to go and tell the brethren of His ascension (John 20:11-18). Many others could be mentioned (Mark 5:25-34; 7:25-30).
Women spoke while other Christians were gathered* without being rebuked. Sometimes they were invited by inspired men, on such occasions, to speak. Rhoda spoke to a gathering* of Christians (Acts 12:13-19). Sapphira was questioned and invited to speak in an gathering* of the apostles and other Christians (Acts 5:7-10). Anna the prophetess "spoke of Him [Christ] to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem" (Luke 2:38). The widows who were present when Peter came to raise Dorcas apparently spoke as they showed the things that Dorcas had made (Acts 9:39-41).

Women engaged in teaching in the early days of the church. Priscilla assisted her husband in explaining to Apollos the way of the Lord more accurately (Acts 18:26). All Christian women, like all Christian men, have a duty to "always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks... a reason for the hope that is in [them]" (1 Peter 3:15). Older women have a duty to teach the younger women their Christian duties and opportunities (Titus 2:3-5). Women were among the "saints who are at Ephesus, and faithful in Christ Jesus" to whom Paul was inspired to write (Ephesians 1:1) and they were commanded to participate, jointly in "speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs" (Ephesians 5:19; see also Colossians 1:2 and 3:16). Philip the evangelist had four virgin daughters who prophesied (Acts 21:9). They were miraculously endowed with the ability to teach God's truth.

If we were left with only these instructions and examples, we would have to conclude that Christian women are authorized to speak and to teach in all ways and in all places just as men. But there are at least two additional passages of scripture that somewhat modify the Christian woman's general duty and privilege to speak and to teach. First, Paul was inspired to instruct Timothy to "[L]et a woman learn in silence with all submission. And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence" (1 Timothy 2:11, 12). The word that is twice translated "silence" here is hesuchios and it means "quietness, causing no disturbance to others..." (Vine). So women are to be taught not to usurp authority over or to teach over a Christian man, but to have a humble and meek disposition. Second, Paul was inspired to instruct the church in Corinth concerning abuses in their assemblies in which miraculous gifts were being exercised (1 Corinthians 11:17-14:40). His use of the word "church" here, obviously has reference to THE assembly upon the first day of the week when all of the members of the local church were assembled and during which the Lord's Supper was eaten and, in their day, miraculous gifts were exercised (1 Corinthians 11:17-34; 14:23). In this setting, several categories of Christians were to remain silent (this word, sigao, means silent). Those who could not speak so as to be understood by the hearers were to remain silent unless an inspired interpreter was present (14:13-28). All those who were not among the two or three speakers for the occasion were to be silent (14:29). Among those two or three, those whose turn to speak had ended were to be silent (14:30). Their wives (or their "women" -- same word in Greek) were to remain silent (14:34, 35). Obviously, the vast majority of those present were commanded to remain silent during the greater part of the assembly for worship. Otherwise there would have been much confusion and "God is not the author of confusion" (14:33).

Obviously, the wives of the prophets could ask their husbands at home if they had questions remaining unanswered. But this reasonable alternative did not mean that they were not permitted to ask someone else a question at some place other than in their own homes. I, for one, would love to have the opportunity given to the wives of the prophets at Corinth (and to every other man and woman there). If I could get into a time machine today and take my sincere questions to an inspired prophet in order to obtain an inspired answer I can assure you that I would jump (maybe take a "quantum leap") at such an opportunity!

The fact that these women (and anyone else with questions left unanswered in the public prophesying) were to ask the prophets for answers outside of the assembly does not remove the general obligation on the part of all Christians to teach others the truth of God's word outside of the assembly in which the whole church is brought together to, among other things, partake of the Lord's Supper.

Arranging to get together at other times (other than the assembly of the whole church together when the Lord's Supper is eaten upon the first day of the week) to study the Bible is essential and Bible class is an expedient and a very helpful opportunity for all to learn and for some to teach in ways that are completely according to God's expressed will. Obviously, both teaching and learning are activities in which all Christians are commanded to participate. Doing so is authorized. Describe these activities in any accurate way and the authority for having them does not disappear. Call them Bible studies, Bible classes, Bible drills, recitations, lesson presentations, teaching opportunities, learning opportunities, scripture training sessions, or anything else that accurately describes them. God is pleased when His children both learn and teach His word in ways that are authorized. Those who teach, both men and women, should have the honor and respect of all.

YOU ought to be a teacher by now. If you need to spend some more time as a student, that is understandable, but aim to become a teacher. "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God..." (Hebrews 5:12).
* Editor's Note: The author used the word "assembled" and "assembly" in these places. The scripture uses the term "gathered" (Acts 12:12). I have substituted the Biblical description to avoid confusion between the occasions cited and the assembly of 1 Cor 14.

Tune-in to Bible Talk

Every Sunday 12:35-1:00 PM

WINA 1070 AM, Charlottesville, VA

For Past Program Archives go to:

www.BibleTalkNow.com

To be a part of the Program call our Bible Talk line at:

(434) 975-7373 and leave a question or a comment.

Call Anytime!

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"In God We Trust"

2008-11-04T11:29:00.001-08:00

by Mark Larson
www.cvillechurch.com

“The motto IN GOD WE TRUST was placed on United States coins largely because of the increased religious sentiment existing during the Civil War. Secretary of the Treasury Salmon P. Chase received many appeals from devout persons throughout the country, urging that the United States recognize the Deity on United States coins… As a result, Secretary Chase instructed James Pollock, Director of the Mint at Philadelphia, to prepare a motto, in a letter dated November 20, 1861: ‘Dear Sir: No nation can be strong except in the strength of God, or safe except in His defense. The trust of our people in God should be declared on our national coins’… IN GOD WE TRUST first appeared on the 1864 two-cent coin… A law passed by the 84th Congress (P.L. 84-140) and approved by the President on July 30, 1956, the President approved a Joint Resolution of the 84th Congress, declaring IN GOD WE TRUST the national motto of the United States.” – “Fact Sheet: Currency and Coins. History of ‘In God We Trust’” - the United States Department of the Treasury.

Is “In God We Trust” still our motto in America today? Though the phrase may be found on U.S. dollars and coins are Americans truly putting their trust in God? With an economic crisis looming, it will be interesting to observe the behavior of the citizens of our society in the months to come.

The Uncertainty of Riches

“Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy” (1 Tim. 6:17, NASB). Our confidence as a nation cannot be sustained by riches alone. We who are rich (Yes, we are rich!), who tend to think of ourselves as the last world “superpower” equate our enormous wealth with great power. So when economic challenges or financial hardships arise, many Americans feel unstable and insecure. Yet, why should it? If God is truly who we trust, we will put our trust in God instead of trusting in wealth or in the government to fix everything and supply all our needs.

Riches are uncertain. Even the most clever investor or hard worker who stores his money wisely runs the risk of loss and disappointment. The truth is, the only “sure investment” comes from putting our complete trust in God who will continue to provide for our needs as we serve Him faithfully throughout life. “Do not be anxious then, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'With what shall we clothe ourselves?' For all these things the Gentiles eagerly seek; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you” (Mat. 6:31-33).

We have a responsibility to provide for our own (1 Tim. 5:8). To make sure our family has enough to eat, we must work (2 Thes. 3:10). Yet, no matter how hard we work, we must still put our trust in God and understand our dependency in Him every step of the way. As a result, we will not fear or be anxious about our future with the help of God.

Money Doesn’t Solve All Our Problems

There is a tendency to believe that if we had lots of money, we would be so much happier and would have no worries. Yet, no amount of money can solve all our problems. Just look at the millionaires (or billionaires) in our society and the heartache and misery that they often experience in their families and the deadness of their spiritual lives. True happiness can come only when we trust in God and follow His wisdom. “How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver” (Prov. 16:16).

Again, in what or who do we place our trust? Instead of believing the lie that “life is good” only when we have lots of wealth and material possessions, let us recognize that life can only be good when we have a right relationship with the Lord. We Americans have a hard time with the phrase: “And if we have food and covering, with these we shall be content” (1 Tim. 6:8), when often we want and expect so much more. “He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income. This too is vanity” (Eccl. 5:10). There is a real danger in having too much wealth or too many possessions. Instead of looking to our money and things as the source of joy and security, let us seek “the balance” that will help to keep us near to our Lord: “Two things I asked of Thee, do not refuse me before I die: Keep deception and lies far from me, give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is my portion, lest I be full and deny Thee and say, "Who is the LORD?" or lest I be in want and steal, and profane the name of my God” (Prov. 30:7-9).

What Do You Treasure in Your Heart?

What we treasure the most in our hearts demonstrates what we trust in the most: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Mat. 6:19-21).

If God is indeed the one in whom you trust, then God will be given top priority in your heart and life. Total commitment to the Lord – to worship Him, to obey Him, to teach your family the gospel, etc. will be demonstrated by putting God’s will above your concern for riches or material possessions. Courage of heart does not come from the amount of money in our bank account, from the things we own, or the houses we live in, it comes from the Lord.

It is God We Must Serve and in God We Must Trust

Though society has forgotten its motto “In God We Trust,” may we as God’s children never, ever forget it. It is easy to make compromises and over time lose our sense of dependency on God. Let us always remember who it is that we serve and who it is that deserves our trust from day to day: "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will hold to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon” (Mat. 6:24).

Tune-in to Bible Talk
Every Sunday 12:35-1:00 PM
WINA 1070 AM, Charlottesville, VA
For Past Program Archives go to:
www.BibleTalkNow.com
To be a part of the Program call our Bible Talk line at:
(434) 975-7373 and leave a question or a comment.
Call Anytime!
E-Mail: larryrouse@cvillechurch.com

Powerful reasons to Believe in the Creator

2008-10-29T12:05:00.000-07:00

by Mark E. Larson
www.cvillechurch.com

Have You Examined the Evidence?

“The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God.’" (Ps. 14:1a). If you do not believe in God, you may not consider yourself to be a fool. Yet, denying the existence of God without examining the evidences for or against such a belief is indeed very foolish!

Do you consider yourself to be an “open-minded” individual? Too often, we let prejudices and preconceived opinions stand in the way of learning the truth. Before anyone dismisses God, any possible evidence for God deserves a fair hearing. Then if after hearing, that person is honest, he will follow the truth wherever it may lead him.

If, after weighing the evidence, you should discover that there is a God to whom we are accountable; will you then believe? “Evidence what evidence!?!” Many are surprised to learn that belief in God is actually based on evidence. “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Heb. 11:1, NKJV). Consider the many powerful reasons God the Creator has provided that we may believe in Him and worship Him as Lord.

Only God Could Be the Adequate Cause of the Universe.

The Law of Cause and Effect: Every material effect must have an adequate cause that existed before the effect. How did this universe come into existence? What could have been a powerful enough cause to have brought such an effect as this grand universe?

The Big Bang Theory proposes that “the universe originated 20 billion years ago from the cataclysmic explosion of a small mass of matter at extremely high density and temperature” (via answers.com). This theory asks us to believe the unbelievable. The “Big Bang”, as it is called, would have lacked sufficient power to cause the universe into existence. Such a theory begs the question: “What caused the Big Bang?” There is no escaping the perpetual, never-ending question: “But what caused that? But what caused that? But what caused that? Etc.

Only the Eternal, all powerful and all wise God is an adequate cause for the universe: God, who is Eternal, who has always been existence and is not an effect of any cause, is the only one who could have brought this universe into existence. “Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable” (Isa. 40:28). Only the one and true God, who was not created or caused by something or someone else, could have created all things (Jer. 10:10a, 12). Only the all powerful God could be that great first cause of the universe to have brought it into existence. “Ah Lord GOD! Behold, Thou hast made the heavens and the earth by Thy great power and by Thine outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for Thee” (Jer. 32:17, NASB).

Life is too Complex to Come from Non-Life.

The doctrine of Autogenesis (life began from non-life): Autogenesis is the field in natural science that studies how life on earth began by the spontaneous generation of nonliving matter. “Chemical evolution” teaches that complex life forms (e.g., fish, animals, humans) evolved from nonliving “primordial pond soup” which contained just the right chemical ingredients. Yet, there is not one documented case of nonlife producing complex life forms. Similarly, the “Big Bang theory” also asserts that all life ultimately came from a big explosion of lifeless matter that gave birth to our universe.

Why Biogenesis (life began from life) best explains the origin of life: Every living organism has genetic codes of information that enable it to live and function (e.g., DNA). These codes demonstrate that each living organism is very complex and each has a certain level of design according to a specific plan and purpose. Who or what gave them these genetic codes?

We can recognize that many non-living things, like the car or the telephone, required man (a living organism) to design, invent, or create it. The first television set did not suddenly appear without the purposeful design and labor of men. The computer and the software to go with it required many successful codes written by man so it could operate successfully. Even the more simple inventions like the compass or a pair of scissors required a designer or inventor. Non-life can certainly come from life, yet when has non-life ever been able to produce life? Only in science-fiction novels and movies has this occurred! Non-life (e.g., a “Big Bang” or “primordial pond scum”) giving birth to life is as ridiculous as the living choosing to worship the non-living: “But they are altogether stupid and foolish In their discipline of delusion — their idol is wood!” (Jer. 10:8).

Only life can produce life. Therefore, the origin of life points to only one source of life, the true and living God, our Creator: “The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; neither is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all life and breath and all things” (Acts 17:24-25).

Life is too Complex to Have Happened by Mere Chance.

The theories of man greatly depend on next to impossible odds: Scientists teach that complex life developed from just the right combination of amino acids and enzymes that just happen to meet. By incredible, if not impossible, odds, life as we know it ultimately evolved from this organic “primordial pond soup.” Fred Hoyle in his book The Intelligent Universe described just how very unlikely this could have occurred, using a fitting analogy: “A junkyard contains all the bits and pieces of a Boeing 747, dismembered and in disarray. A whirlwind happens to blow through the yard. What is the chance that after its passage a fully assembled 747, ready to fly, will be found standing there? So small as to be negligible, even if a tornado were to blow through enough junkyards to fill the whole universe.” (p. 19).

The Big Bang Theory also relies on unbelievable odds. Dr. Robin Collins states, in Lee Strobel’s book, The Case for a Creator: “Over the past thirty years or so, scientists have discovered that just about everything about the basic structure of the universe is balanced on a razor’s edge. Over 35 different characteristics of the universe and its physical laws must be precisely fine-tuned for physical life to be possible.” What this means is that a random explosion, such as the Big Bang, to produce a universe with conditions necessary for life would depend on incredible, if not impossible, odds (Estimated by many to be one out of 10124!). This is greater odds than a blind person finding one grain of sand with a special code hidden in all the beaches of the earth!
Only an intelligent Creator could have made this world possible! Great power, intelligence, and wisdom were required to create and design our world and universe.

“Let them praise the name of the LORD, for He commanded and they were created.” (Ps. 148:5). The living cell is more complex than the most brilliant machine ever invented by man, comprised of more than 200,000 chains of amino acids. Even the most basic living organisms, such as bacteria, function by molecular engines more complex than man’s greatest inventions. The saying is true: Believing in the Big Bang theory is like believing that an explosion in a print shop will produce a set of encyclopedias! Highly complex systems cannot occur by mere chance. Only an all wise God could be the great first cause of this amazing and complex universe: “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!” (Rom. 11:33).

The Creation is a witness to the existence of God the Creator: “The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands” (Ps. 19:1). “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.” (Rom. 1:20). The complexity and amazing abilities of the creatures of the earth testify that there is Creator that made all living organisms:

aBirds have a complex respiratory system that provides a continuous flow of oxygen through their lungs. They do not depend on a diaphragm pushing air in and out of their lungs to breathe. Therefore, they can survive in thin air for long periods of time.

aThe electric eel generates electricity through thousands of disk shaped electrogenic cells, equivalent to a 500 volt battery. The reason the eel does not shock itself is his skin has a higher electrical resistance than a fish does.

aDolphins have two hemispheres in their brain. When dolphins sleep, one hemisphere continues to function while the other sleeps to protect themselves from predators.

aGeckos climb walls and ceilings, yet have no suction cups, no glue, and no Velcro-like structures on their feet. It is the structures of their hairs that contribute to their ability to climb. A set of toe hairs the size of a dime can lift 45 pounds.

aGray seals can put off the digestion of food, which uses up oxygen, for hours enabling the seals to swim deep into the ocean and hunt for up to twenty minutes before they run out of breath. Digestion will not start until they have returned to land and have stopped hunting --perhaps hours after having swallowed their prey.

aRattlesnakes have a sensor in their cheeks which picks up infrared radiation or heat radiation given off by warm-blooded animals. In darkness, a rattlesnake can see its prey because it can see the heat radiation coming from the animal.

aThe ground squirrel, when confronted by rattlesnakes, moves his tail up and down in a wild erratic motion called flagging. The tail heats up giving off larger and larger amounts of infrared radiation. This flooding of the rattlesnake's infrared sensor is so complete that the snake will usually give up and crawl away.

aIf a gopher snake that does not have the infrared sensing ability approaches the squirrel, the squirrel's tail does not heat up. Only when the squirrel is endangered by snakes with infrared ability does the tail heat up to disrupt the infrared signals.

The amazing complexity to the human body is evidence of the Creator: By looking to ourselves and our amazing bodies in what they can do, we have reason to believe that an incredible Designer made each one of us!

Every living cell of the body has one trillion bits of informational data in it. This is comparable to the amount of information in ten thousand encyclopedia books! The body has about three trillion nerve cells that are all integrated by the brain. The brain has thirty billion working components. Everyday, the heart beats 100,000 times and pumps 2,000 gallons of life saving blood. The kidneys have 40 miles of tubing which cleans 500 gallons of blood a day. There are approximately 131 million photoreceptors in the eyes enabling us to see. There are about 24,000 hair-like cells in the inner ear that respond to sound and transform the sound into nerve impulses. Our body has 639 muscles that work together. The bone cells of the body are very unique and also amazing. There is no other material on earth (e.g., wood, steel, aluminum) that can do as good a job as our bones do for us. Our bones only account for one fifth of our body weight, yet they support the entire frame of the body. Shall I go on? It is no wonder why the Psalmist gave thanks to God saying: “For Thou didst form my inward parts; Thou didst weave me in my mother's womb. I will give thanks to Thee, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Thy works, and my soul knows it very well” (Ps. 139:13-14).

Note: The above examples were taken from “Does God Exist?” journal: http://www.doesgodexist.com/

The Origin of Life Occurred instantaneously, not gradually.

Evolutionists teach that all life came into existence in an extremely slow and gradually way: Evolution teaches that all life came into existence by means of lifeless matter and that over billions of years, natural forces acted upon that matter, in such a way, to give origin to living organisms that have evolved into plants, animals, and mankind. Yet, is it even possible for life to come about in a gradual way?

Instantaneous creation is seen in the six days of Creation: The biblical account of Creation makes it clear that God created all things instantly by the power of His word. “Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light” (Gen. 1:3; cf. 6, 9, 11, 14, 20, 24, 26; 2:7, 22). “By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and by the breath of His mouth all their host… For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast” (Ps. 33:6, 9; cf. Heb. 11:3). “The Word” (i.e., Jesus) was the powerful agent that God used to create the world! (John 1:1-3).

The Genesis record indicates that God chose to create everything in only six consecutive days. “Thus the heavens and the earth were completed, and all their hosts. And by the seventh day God completed His work which He had done; and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done” (Gen. 2:1-2). “Theistic evolutionists” have no right to regard these six days as being merely figurative. The Bible leaves no room to insert billions of years between each day as some try to do today. Time and again, the emphasis is made after each phrase of the Creation: “And there was evening and there was morning, one day… a second day… a third day… a fourth day… a fifth day… the sixth day” (Gen. 1:5, 8, 13, 19, 23, 31). Clearly, each day was a twenty-four hour period, not a time span of billions of billions of years!

The “Irreducible Complexity” of life demands that life began instantaneously:

Irreducible Complexity: “A single system composed of several well-matched, interacting parts that contribute to the basic function of the system, wherein the removal of any one of the parts causes the system to effectively cease functioning.” - Michael J. Behe, Darwin's Black Box, p. 39. Every machine, such as a clock, computer, car, or even a mousetrap, must have in place a certain minimum number of parts for it to function properly. If just one part below this minimum is taken away, the machine will cease to function correctly. Similarly, the living cell or living organism ceases to function if each is below the minimum number of parts (e.g., organs, cells /organelles, protein, amino acids). The components of a living cell cannot come together in a piecemeal fashion.

Instantaneous creation was absolutely essential for life to exist: Mankind would never have gotten started, if each body part and organ gradually developed one by one, as evolution suggests. The heart, for example, could not evolve separately and live independently without the rest of the body for protection from the environment. The human body could not function or live without each supportive organ in place simultaneously (e.g., brain, heart, kidney, lungs, stomach, etc.). The first man and woman were purposefully designed with every essential body part in place from the start in order to live and exist (Gen. 1:27). The same is true for every living creature that God made (Gen. 1:20-25). Life itself depends on instantaneous creation!

The science of Ecology is evidence for instantaneous creation: Ecology has demonstrated the interdependency of different species of living organisms. Animals, birds, fish, insects, and other organisms greatly depend on each other for their survival. Ecology also has proven how essential the proper habitat for each living organism in order to exist - an environment or ecosystem that provides a suitable climate, needed vegetation, as well as supportive creatures for their food and ecological service. Known as biodiversity, all creatures work together for the ultimate good for planet earth. These truths all point to an instantaneous creation, rather than a gradual process of evolution. It is no wonder then why God choose to create the creatures of the sky, sea, and land, instantly over the course of two days (Gen. 1:20-25) and why water, the proper climate, and vegetation was prepared beforehand for their survival (Gen. 1:6-19).

The Wisdom of God’s Powerful and Indestructible Word

The Bible itself is a powerful reason to believe in the Creator: Just as God, who is all powerful and wise, created the universe, so did God cause the Bible to be written. Only God is qualified and able to create a perfect moral code for mankind to live by: “For Thy righteousness, O God, reaches to the heavens, Thou who hast done great things; O God, who is like Thee?” (Ps. 71:19). Only our Creator could provide for us instructions for life: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Tim. 3:16-17, KJV).

The Bible is set apart from all other ancient or modern “Scriptures” (e.g., Shruti – Hinduism; Tipitaka – Buddhism; Ching - Confucianism, the Koran – Islam, etc.):
Only the Bible contains numerous fulfilled prophecies, approximately 2,000! The Scripture itself makes it clear that fulfilled prophecy is one of the evidences that the words come from God. "When a prophet speaks in the name of the LORD, if the thing does not come about or come true, that is the thing which the LORD has not spoken…” (Deut 18:22a, NASB; cf. Jer. 28:9). The prophecies fulfilled from the Bible are not vague, but contain specific details. Historical events, such as the fall of Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, and other nations are detailed by the prophets, especially in Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel. Descriptive accounts of the coming Messiah and the kind of death He would experience are foretold (Gen 3:15; 49:10; Ps. 22; Isa. 9:6; 52-53; Dan. 7:13-14; 9:25; Micah 5:2; Zech. 13:7). No other ancient scriptures of the world provide proven prophecies. Only the Eternal Creator who existed before the world began could predict the future! (Ps. 90:1-2; Rev. 1:8).

Only the Bible contains a multitude of scientific facts before scientists discovered these for themselves. Facts such as the rotundity of the earth (Isa. 40:22), the suspension of the earth (Job 26:7), the moon being a witness of the light of the sun (Ps. 89:36-37), and the formation of static electricity or thunderstorms (Jer. 10:13). It has been estimated of approximately forty different descriptions of physical science in the book of Job before they were established in science! Only the Creator who created all things could know these scientific facts as provided in the Bible.

Only the Bible has been proven to be true, time and again by archeological discoveries. Unlike the Koran and other ancient writings, archelogical findings have supported the statements of the Bible. Dr. Nelson Glueck, the most renowned archeologist of this century and the last, wrote in his book, Rivers in the Desert, this amazing statement. "It may be stated categorically that no archaeological discovery has ever controverted a Biblical reference. Scores of archaeological findings have been made which confirm in clear outline or in exact detail historical statements in the Bible. And by the same token, proper evaluation of Biblical descriptions has often led to amazing discoveries" (Dr. Nelson Glueck, Rivers in the Desert [New York, Grove, 1960], p. 31).
Incredible discoveries have been made to support biblical claims: The cities of Erech, Accad, Nineveh, and Calah have been found (Gen. 10:10). Round balls of brimstone or nearly pure forms of sulfur were discovered near the Dead Sea confirming that Sodom and Gomorrah was destroyed by fiery brimstone (Gen. 18:16- 19:29). Even Solomon’s great wealth has been confirmed, in part, by the discovery of the remains of enormous horse stables in a king’s garrison in Megiddo, in northern Palestine (1 Kings 4:26). Hundreds of thousands archeological discoveries have proven the Bible to be authentic providing further evidence to believe that the Genesis account of Creation is trustworthy.

Only the Bible demonstrates an amazing unity and harmony of all of its writings, from Genesis to Revelation, sixty-six books in all, over the course of 1,600 years, in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, in different countries, written by scholars and laymen from all walks of life. The Bible contains no proven contradictions. The Bible stands for truth, free of all error. Only the wise Creator could be responsible for the writing of this book!

The enduring word of God: Throughout the centuries, the enemies of God have attacked the Scriptures of God. Kings, priests, emperors, heathen, and barbarians have made efforts to destroy God’s word. Religions such as Islam have attempted to obliterate the Bible, others such as Catholicism worked hard to diminish its influence upon the people. God’s servants have been persecuted, even put to death for its teachings. Yet, despite man’s efforts, it cannot be destroyed. Even today, the Bible is the best-selling and the most widely distributed book in the world. The Bible lives on forever! “For you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that is, through the living and abiding word of God. For, ‘All flesh is like grass, and all its glory like the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls off, But the word of the Lord abides forever. And this is the word which was preached to you” (1 Pet. 1:23-25). Only the all-powerful Creator could provide such protection for the Bible, which would have otherwise perished long ago.

Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

Jesus was proven to be the Son of God by His resurrection: Further evidence to believe in God the Creator, is to look to the historical evidence of the resurrection of Jesus who claimed to be God’s Son. Our belief and understanding of history depends upon credible witnesses who saw the actual events take place. In the case of Jesus, there are also reliable witnesses that saw the raised Jesus as a record of ancient history.

At the heart of every gospel sermon of the apostles of Jesus is their eyewitness testimony of the raised Christ (Acts 2:32; 3:14-15; 5:30-32; 10:39-43; 13:27-31). Through a cross-examination, we learn that the apostles offer credible, trustworthy testimony. First, they were present for the event. Having spent three years with Jesus, they would know the facts about Jesus (1 John 1:1-3). Secondly, their character as witnesses is credible, having no ulterior motives to lie about the resurrection (1 Cor. 15:30-32). All the apostles died martyrs deaths except for John. They did not die for a lie! Third, their writings are historically accurate. The New Testament surpasses all other records of antiquity in detailed accuracy (e.g., Luke 1:1-4; 3:1-2). Finally, there was agreement between numerous witnesses in addition to the apostles (1 Cor. 15:1-8). Even non-bible sources of testimony from ancient historians agree with their testimony (e.g., Cornelius Tacitus, Suetonius, Plinius Secundus, Flavius Josephus).

Proof that Jesus rose from the dead is found by answering the question: Who moved the stone from the entrance of the securely sealed tomb of Jesus? (Mat. 27:57-60). The Jewish leaders did not, for they tried to prevent the resurrection (Mat. 27:62-64). The Romans did not who would be punished to death for their failure on the job (e.g., Acts 16:27). The disciples did not, despite being falsely accused (Mat. 28:11-15). Who can believe that the disciples got past a Roman guard to steal the body of Jesus!?! Only God could have moved the stone! (Mat. 28:1-2). God raised Jesus from the dead (Acts 13:30) which proved to the world that Jesus was God’s Son (Rom. 1:3-4).

Jesus’ belief in the Creation: If we believe in Jesus as the Son of God, then what He believes about the Creation will be of great importance to us. Jesus often quoted from Genesis as a true record of history (Mat. 19:4-6; 23:35; 24:37ff.). Jesus’ representatives or the apostles and servants of Christ also frequently quoted from Genesis. In fact, every New Testament writer has made allusions to Genesis or has quoted from it. Many people try to explain away the record of creation by calling it an allegory or myth. This is impossible to do without denying Jesus and the writings of His apostles!

Through Jesus, all things were Created: Again, if we accept Jesus as Lord, believing in Him to be the Son of God, we have further cause to believe in the Creator. For it was through Jesus Christ that the Universe was made and by Him the Universe supported: “And He is the image of the invisible God, the first-born of all creation. For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities — all things have been created by Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together” (Col 1:15-17; cf. Heb. 1:2-3).

Powerful Reasons for the Creator Should Cause Us to Worship God!

“For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods, in whose hand are the depths of the earth; the peaks of the mountains are His also. The sea is His, for it was He who made it; and His hands formed the dry land. Come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker” (Ps. 95:3-6).

Where Do Elders Come From?

2008-10-21T08:57:00.000-07:00

by Paul Earnhart
www.cvillechurch.com

The scarcity of functioning elders (bishops, pastors) in local churches has led some Christians to conclude that they are a rare breed with rare qualities. Otherwise, they reason, why would they be so difficult to come by? Contrary to this rather discouraging view, elders do not have to be imported from outer space. They are generated from ordinary human beings from "every tribe and tongue and people and nation," and perhaps it will help identify the reason for their scarcity if we trace, step by step, where elders originate.

First of all, and elementally, elders come from strong Christians, men and women who by the power of God have been radically reborn (John 3:3-6). Now, here are some remarkable people. They have given up everything for the Lord's sake, claiming not even their breath as their own (I Corinthians 6:19-20; Romans 2:1-2). Theirs is a life of utter trust in the Son of God (Galatians 2:20). Why should we be surprised that something special should arise in the characters of folk like this? They will love God supremely and care about others in a self‑sacrificial way.

Secondly, elders (Greek presbuteroi, older men), by definition, originate from Christians who are men. There is nothing special or remarkable or difficult here. From the outset, men as well as women have been touched by the appeal of the gospel (Acts 4:4; 5:14; 6:7; 8:12; 17:12,34) and we can logically anticipate that wherever the gospel is preached, this will continue to be so.
Thirdly, elders are to be taken from among Christian men who are mature in years (older) and in the faith ("not a novice," I Timothy 3:6). The bulk of the bishop's required qualities are no more than would be expected in any mature disciple: "... sober‑minded, orderly, given to hospitality ... no brawler, no striker; but gentle, not contentious, no lover of money ... good testimony from them that are without ... " (1 Timothy 3:7) "... not selfwilled, not soon angry ... a lover of good ... just, holy, self‑controlled; holding to the faithful word ... " (Titus 1:6‑9). Every Christian, without exception, is expected to grow and mature into "a fullgrown man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ . . ." (Ephesians 4:13). There is nothing unusual about the Lord's servants becoming increasingly like Him. It is their failure to grow up that is considered aberrant (I Corinthians 3:1-3; Hebrews 5:12-14).

Fourthly, elders are drawn from mature Christian men who are married. The Holy Spirit has indicated that the elder is to be "the husband of one wife" (I Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6). Here, again, there is no special obstacle. As a matter of course, most men marry.

Fifthly, elders are to be taken from mature Christian men who are married and have children. His children arc to be believers and those still in his household are to be respectfully obedient (Titus 1:6; 1 Timothy 3:4). There is nothing remarkable about a married man having children. Most married men are fathers, and from such a characteristic population new disciples were drawn in the past and will be drawn today. Nor should it be thought unusual for a Christian father's children to be faithful disciples and obedient to him. Godly parents will, more often than not, lead their children to serve the Lord (Proverbs 22:6). In New Testament times, it was not uncommon for whole households to be converted (Acts 10:24; 11:14; 16:31,33).

From among mature Christian family men with many different abilities there are bound to be some who arc effective teachers (1 Timothy 3:2), able to nurture and train their brethren in the righteous ways of the Savior and protect them from the deceptions of false teachers (Titus 1:9; Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2-5).

Now, from all these qualifications of elders there is nothing so significant as the fact that they are devoted Christians. That they arc men, married men, family men is not anything special. That they possess native skills as teachers gives them no distinction, either. Many men who have no faith in Christ at all could say the same. In the case of elders, it is the unqualified devotion that these men have to Christ that gives meaning to their family relationships and to their God‑given skills.

I cannot tell you how often I have heard complaints about the absence of elders in local churches and the difficulty of finding qualified men to serve. It is not helpful merely to describe the problem and complain about it. We need to find the exact source of this critical shortage and formulate some godly solutions.

One thing we must face is that the Holy Spirit makes elders out of devoted Christians and churches that are filled with half-hearted and indifferent disciples don't have any material to work with. The answer to the shortage of every kind of worker in the kingdom of God is to get each child of God among us to be totally committed. If we can do that, the problem will take care of itself in time. If not, we will keep on complaining about the shortage of elders today and assure an even greater shortage tomorrow. Until we are willing to deal with our own shortfall in devotion, it is a little unrealistic to complain about the other fellow's.

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E-Mail: larryrouse@cvillechurch.com

Build, Keeping Emotions in Balance

2008-10-13T11:32:00.001-07:00

by Ferrell Jenkins
www.cvillechurch.com

“How large is your church?” What is one of the more common questions that I am asked by outsiders who learn that I am a preacher. We hear of phenomenal growth among certain denominational churches, especially those which put undue emphasis on emotionalism. Examples of unusual and rapid growth are also cited among churches of Christ from time to time.

Don't misunderstand! This writer is opposed to neither growth among the Lord's people nor the proper use of emotions. Growth based on the truth of God is an ideal for which we should long (Eph 4:14-16). We are concerned, however, about growth which is accomplished by maintaining a high peak of excitement or through techniques which are more appropriate to sales promotions than to the gospel of Christ.

Keeping churches small is certainly not our goal. Every person in attendance represents a soul destined for eternity. Churches need to grow, and they will as souls are saved by the gospel of Christ (Rom 1:16-17). The method by which the desired growth is achieved is extremely important. Simply preaching and teaching the word of God often seems to yield slim results. In an effort to grow, we are sometimes tempted to use methods which, if not unscriptural, are at best questionable. Here we wish to look at a few of these. questionable methods which involve the improper use of emotion.

1. Super Salesmanship Techniques. The church which uses such methods must be highly organized into groups with leaders who are responsible for keeping each group motivated. The group must make so many "sales." Everyone must remain excited about the work. Excitement, or enthusiasm, becomes addictive… the group must constantly be "high." The assembly can become a "pep rally" with the elders, the preacher, the announcer, and perhaps even the song leader taking part.

Brethren need to be active in the work of the Lord, but these "super salesmanship techniques" keep one enthused but do nothing to provide a foundation on which to build.

Without this foundation we are sure to fall (1 Cor 3:10-15). Christians are to edify (build up) one another. Notice Paul's instruction along this line even during the days of miraculous gifts (I Cor 14:12, 26). The religion of excitement won't do this.

If we want to learn how to motivate Christians we should spend our time studying the methods of Jesus and the apostles rather than the line of books, tapes, videos, and seminars used to motivate sales people. When our assemblies or group meetings sound more like a pep rally for a ball game, or for a sales promotion, than an opportunity to praise God and study His word, we need to become concerned. The narcotic of activism may be lulling us to sleep.

2. Humor. Humor is an interesting and worthwhile human activity. It often occurs naturally or spontaneously when we least expect it. it might be during the Lord's Supper, like when the child standing in the pew beside his mother exclaims aloud, "Wow, I could have had a V8!" That's one thing! But intentionally to try to make things funny in order to keep a group excited is improper. A friend told me of visiting a congregation where nearly everyone who took part in the public service began with something "cute" This, I think, is inappropriate.

3. Physical Contact. Some churches fall into the habit of stressing physical contact. Leaders sometime teach this by their example. Saints greet one another with a hug because we are the "family" of God and are supposed to love one another.

In New Testament times, the kiss was a typical form of greeting, even as it still is in the Middle East today. Christians were exhorted to salute one another with a "holy" kiss (Rom 16:16). There is nothing wrong with a warm, fervent greeting, per se. We must not make the mistake of assuming that this proves that we "love" one another. Love (Greek: agape) is best expressed by deeds of kindness done for those in need. Christian men and women need to be careful how they embrace one another. Emotions are stirred easily, especially in young men. The attitude can be developed which thinks that others who do not show their love in the same way are not spiritually minded Christians.

Conclusion: When the seventy disciples returned from their first mission, they rejoiced because of the miraculous power they had seen demonstrated even at their own hands. Jesus said, "Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven" (Luke 10:20). Their emotions led them in the wrong direction. Our past criticism of the denominational emphasis on emotion has been proper. Now we should examine ourselves to see whether our emotions are balanced with fact and reason. My observation has been that churches which go wild over excitement are just waiting for the fall. Another writer has somewhere pointed out that mushrooms grow overnight, but it takes longer to grow an oak.

E-Mail: larryrouse@cvillechurch.com

The Central Place of Attitude

2008-10-07T19:43:00.000-07:00

by Warren E. Berkley
www.cvillechurch.com

If your attitude is not right, I don't think you can fix anything else! Everything else in your life depends upon attitude: Your participation in worship; Your responsibility to your spouse and children; Dealing with people; Handling temptation; Enduring suffering; Being properly related to other Christians. If your attitude is not right, you cannot effectively handle, or deal with or fix anything else. It is as Solomon wrote in Prov. 4:23, "Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life."

If we will develop good focus and clarity about attitude, that will put us in position to properly approach every other aspect of practical life. Just look at the words and phrases packed into this little paragraph: love, affection, mercy, and joy and then, consolation in Christ; comfort of love; lowliness of mind. Further, observe what is forbidden: selfish ambition and conceit.

This is about attitude, and this attitude of unselfish humility is essential in order to please God, follow Christ, have personal peace of mind, and to live in harmony with others.

We cannot be united with each other until we are first united with Christ. Our relationship with God through Christ is the basis of our good relationship with each other. And when we address the subject of unity, we need to be sure we work from the right place, and the right place is in Christ. If I'm living in Him, and you are living in the same place, we will be able to be united in attitude.

"Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind, let each esteem others better than himself."

Earlier in Philippians, reference is made to preachers who may deliver the right message but their motives are wrong. Back in 1:16, there is the reference to preaching Christ from selfish ambition. Teaching from this text I recently said: For a man to think about elevating himself above another is never a right thought! I said -- For a preacher to worry about why some other preacher has more attention, or more praise or acclaim?

There is never a time when that kind of thinking is justified.

Now, here in Phil. 2:3, we are back to that and it is exceedingly important for every one of us to get this. "Selfish ambition or conceit" just has no good place in our attitude.

Never a time...

Never a place...

Never a circumstance...

No occasion ever, when we should be driven by selfish ambition or conceit.

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit...."

"Nothing!" Just forget it! These immature, selfish attitudes can never be justified.
And I think we all realize, where there is selfish ambition and conceit, people don't get along and the Lord's work is not done. Isn't that right? You show me a group of people where there are power plays . . . battles for personal prestige . . . rivalry . . . desire for recognition -- it is ugly; there is discord, division, and tension people can see and feel. Selfish ambition kills churches, dishonors the cause, makes people sick, and offends God.

So let's make up our mind, we will have no part in it! I need to make a specific choice. You need to make a specific choice that you will not have a parade in your own honor and that you will not exalt yourself and look down on others. You will not praise yourself, boast, or act in any conceited way. We need to learn what good attitudes are in keeping with the gospel of Christ, then evaluate ourselves, review that teaching, and determine personally: we will do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.

See more about this in Jas. 3:13-18; Eph. 4:1-3; 1 Cor. 3:1-3 and Matt. 18:1-5.

"...in humility, consider others better than yourselves" (Phil. 2:3b).

Now let's be honest, sometimes we come to a passage in the Bible like this, and our first thought may be, "That doesn't really mean that! That has to be an exaggeration. There must be some interpretation, figure of speech, literary form, something!" Honestly, sometimes we seem to want to unload the Word, taking the power away.

While there is such a thing as hyperbole, I'm convinced -- in this context -- looking now at the last phrase in verse 3 in Philippians 2, we need to let this stand, and be challenged by it: "...consider others better than yourselves."

If we try to take something off of this or minimize it through some sophisticated explanation, I think we're going to wind up putting ourselves above others, and arranging ourselves above others will take us away from everything this passage says about genuine humility.

Add verse 4 for further explanation: "Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." Our selfishness may not be well concealed. We talk about ourselves . . . We get upset when people don't pay attention to us . . . We expect people to treat us in a certain way, and we are almost defensive before we meet people -- wondering if they will give us the attention we believe we need. We may have our greatest interests directed to what people can do for us, rather than what we can do for them.

Self-centered preoccupation is just not very graceful.

Our good brother, Walton Weaver, helps us with this in his commentary: "But Paul says the Christian must esteem others better than themselves, not merely view them as equals. This is to be done, not because it is the natural thing to do, but because as Christians we are commanded to do it. Jesus in his example showed it is the proper thing to do, and he taught that it is the mark of true greatness ... It was for this reason that the apostles commanded it. True unity among brethren is impossible without humility on the part of each Christian" (p. #77, Truth Commentaries, Philippians, by Walton Weaver.).

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"Into What Were You Baptized?"

2008-10-06T18:18:00.000-07:00

by Tom Hamilton
www.cvillechurch.com

Paul met "certain disciples" at Ephesus in Acts 19. Paul knew that these men were "disciples" or followers of God, but he also knew that they were not Christians. Therefore, the question Paul put to them was, "Into what therefore were you baptized?" We, like Paul in this example, will not deny that others may believe in God, may have had a religious experience, or may have some attachment to God. But we must also ask the same question that Paul did. Into what were you baptized? Our answer to this question will determine the validity of our religious experience and our relationship to God, just as it did those many centuries ago.

Baptized Into Water

Jesus was himself baptized as an example for us to follow. In Mark 1:9, we read that "Jesus was baptized by John in (lit. 'into') the Jordan river." This expression does not make much sense unless we also understand that baptism means "immersion" Jesus was immersed into the waters of the Jordan River. That is why the next verse says, "When Jesus came up out of the water..." This example of Jesus set the pattern for all believers to follow. For example, in Acts 8:38 we read of the Ethiopian's baptism ". . . and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him. And when they came up out of the water . . ." The fact that Paul refers to baptism as a "burial" (Rom. 6:4; Col. 2:12) also indicates that baptism involves a complete covering over or a total submersion into water. Of course, our answer should agree with what the New Testament says that we are to be baptized into.

Therefore, we must not simply be baptized by water or with water, but into water. Have you been baptized into water?

Baptized Into Death

Paul says in Romans 6:3-4, "Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ have been baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life." In the same way that Jesus physically died, was buried, and raised from the dead, we spiritually die to sin, are buried in baptism, and are raised again. Our old sinful self has been crucified and we have made a complete break with our sinful past, therefore we should not sin anymore, but rather live a new life (Rom. 6:5-6). Notice that our spiritual resurrection follows, not precedes, being baptized. The correct order death, burial, and then resurrection must be preserved if we are to be right with God. Spiritual resurrection and renewal can only take place after baptism.

Have you been baptized into death and then raised to eternal life?

Baptized Into the Name

Jesus commanded his disciples in Matthew 28:19, "Go therefore and disciple the nations, baptizing them in (lit. 'into') the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things I have commanded you." Acts 8:16 and 19:5 also speak of being baptized into the name of Jesus. While other passages speak of being baptized in or by the name of Jesus, baptism into the name of Jesus carries a little different meaning. It is a figure of speech for ownership, indicating that one rightfully wears the name of his owner. Notice in 1 Corinthians 1:10-17, Paul says that nobody was baptized into Paul's name and, therefore, nobody could claim to "belong" to Paul. On the other hand, if we are baptized into Jesus' name, then we belong to him. It also makes it clear that we do not belong to Jesus and cannot rightfully wear his name as our owner until we are baptized.

Have you entered into the realm of Christ's ownership, having been baptized into his name?

Baptized Into Forgiveness

Peter says in Acts 2:38, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for (lit. 'into') the forgiveness of your sins." Here we find the answer to the very simple question, How does one enter into the forgiveness of one's sins? Peter says that we enter into forgiveness through baptism. This also means that until one is baptized, one has not entered into the forgiveness of his sins. This does not mean that we are saving ourselves. Peter explains elsewhere that baptism saves us, not of our own power, but simply because we are faithfully doing what God has said in order that we may have a clear conscience (I Pet. 3:21).

Therefore, we must be baptized in water out of obedience to God in order to receive the forgiveness of our sins. Have you been baptized into the forgiveness of your sins?
Baptized Into the Body of Christ

Paul says in 1 Corinthians 12:13, "For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body." Paul pictures the church the group of all the saved as a body with its many members. But how does one get into Christ's body? While people will give many different answers to this question, there is only one Bible answer baptized into the body! One does not enter into Christ's body and then afterwards get baptized. Also, this means that one is outside of Christ's body until baptized to enter into it.

Therefore, to be a member of Christ's body, we must be baptized. Have you been baptized into the body?

Baptized Into Christ

Finally, the Bible tells us not once, but twice, that we are baptized into Christ. We have already quoted Romans 6:3-4 when noting the expression "baptized into death." Note also Galatians 3:27, "For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ." How do we get into Christ? Again, while many give conflicting answers, there is only one biblical answer. If you want to agree with what the Bible says on the subject, you must agree that one can enter into Christ only by being baptized into Christ. This also means that one is not in Christ until one enters into Christ through baptism. It also means that one does not get into Christ and then get baptized afterwards, as many teach.

If you believe that you are now in Christ, how did you get into him? At what point did you go from being outside of Christ to being in Christ? Have you been baptized into Christ?

Conclusion

These are not, of course, six different baptisms that the Bible is talking about. The Bible is simply telling us the six things that we are baptized into when we are properly baptized out of obedience to God.

When we are immersed into the waters of baptism, we bury our dead previous life of sin, enter under Christ's ownership, receive the forgiveness of our sins, become members of the body of Christ, and enjoy all of the blessings of God that are to be had by those who are in Christ, having entered into him by baptism.

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Hand Waving in Worship

2008-09-26T05:47:00.000-07:00

by Wayne Goforth
www.cvillechurch.com

In recent years, there has been a push in many otherwise conservative churches to do things differently. Now, I don't mean different because they found the changes expedient, but different to be different (a sort of "iconoclasm" if you would) at least from appearances and conversations I have had with such proponents. Added to this list of changes has recently come the raising and or waving of hands in worship and prayer. I suppose most of us have seen the commercials on TV for some community church or charismatic group programs waving their hands. Until recent years, I had never heard of this among brethren (except raising of a hand to ask a question) but is becoming more discussed and practiced.

Certainly there were times in the Bible when people prayed with extended arms, even as we might beg something of someone with arms outstretched. For example, we find in 1 Kings 8:22-23; "Then Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord in the presence of all the assembly of Israel and spread out his hands toward heaven. And he said, ' O Lord, the God of Israel..."
But that was not a consistent manner even for the Jews. In 1 Samuel 1:12-13, we find Hannah praying to herself with her lips moving. Eli assumes she is drunk. Now, had she had hands outstretched, then surely he would have realized that she was in prayer rather than to assume drunkenness.

Apparently it was customary to pray with outstretched hands and arms at times, but with all of the specific regulations of the Old Testament laws of worship, there was nothing that required such posture. I am reminded of the story told by a preacher who once held a meeting at a "kneeling church" when that issue had become debated. A brother led the prayer and everyone knelt except the meeting preacher. He did not realize until he opened his eyes that others were kneeling. After services, one brother approached the preacher and said "brother so-in-so, you sinned by not kneeling for prayer." To which the preacher retorted, "Well, you sinned by peeking during prayer!"

Now, in our society, it has at least been the custom in some places and in some times to kneel. But when has it ever been our custom to raise arms except in the emotional display of the charismatics? I have to wonder if the hand waving will soon be accompanied by the swaying which typically goes with it among those groups. Now, may one pray in that manner? Certainly! But, my question is, why? It was neither Bible command nor our culture that establishes this practice. Some have said "Well you cannot regulate or know the heart of one stretching out their arms in prayer. They may be humbly entreating the Lord." That is true, and frankly I would not say anything to one who did. My question is reserved for those who encourages others to do so, or who claim the Bible teaches we should do so, or in at least one church which announces "Will you raise your arms with me in prayer."

It is true that 1 Timothy 2:8 says; "I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting;" But is this literal lifting of hands? Barnes states "The idea is, that when men approach God they should do it in a pure and holy manner." Similarly Johnson says "Lifting up holy hands. This seems to indicate an attitude in prayer. The hands lifted up must be sanctified to holy deeds." Too, others have stated that it is the "holy hands" that is figurative, but the "lifting up" is literal. How then does one literally hold up a figure? If this is literal, why not apply this to other passages as well. We will take Romans 12:1 as an example where Paul says that we are to present our bodies as a living sacrifice. Must we literally sacrifice our bodies?

The pulpit commentary states that Chrysostom condemned those who were praying against their enemies asking the Lord to "smite him" or "recompense him." To this, Chrysostom wrote; "Do you pray against your brother? Your prayer is not against him, but against yourself." I saw some glass candle holders a few years back with various prayers on each. One holder said "Oh Lord, may my enemies eyes become stuck with mesquite thorns." This seems to be the type of background of our passage.

Also consider that 1 Timothy 2 is setting a contrast to the roles of men and women. Only the men are told to pray with the outstretched hands. Yet, both men and women do so in the charismatic churches which practice such so freely today, as well as some of the advocates of this practice among us. Does this then mean that women cannot pray? No, this is more evidence that we have under consideration the qualification of the one leading the worship in prayer. Vincent agrees in his Word Studies by offering "The point here is that only men should lead in public prayer who can lift up "clean hands" (morally and spiritually clean)."

In the past, I have assumed that these various "change the church" advocates were just seeking change because they were tired of tradition (before you accuse me here of reading minds, I have talked with many such), but more and more it seems that it is an effort to mimic the community church type movements. By all means, change when it is a scriptural, expedient practice that helps the local work and builds up rather than offends. But to change for the sake of change or to get more like the denominations will only create a desire to move away from scriptural practice and will create a hunger for the new. These preachers may soon find themselves putting out fires which they themselves helped to spark. Will it next be accompanied by the emotional swaying and gyrating also common to these same people? Clapping and shouting out? Paul said, "Let all things be done decently and in order" (1 Cor. 14:40), and that, "God is not the author of confusion" (1 Cor. 14:33).

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Good Days and Bad Days

2008-09-10T19:20:00.000-07:00

by Dee Bowman
www.cvillechurch.com

"There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven" (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

Life's like that. Just about the time you think you have it all figured out, some new adventure disrupts your confidence and flies in the face of your conclusions. Nobody has life figured out.

I wrote in my journal recently: "I don't suppose it's possible to have any length of time where you are right with the world. I had 15 minutes one day where it just seemed everything was just right. Then the phone rang. Pfsst! Right out the window. But then I've had times when everything was all messed up, tangled, distorted, and disheveled. And right in the middle of my pity party the mail comes and there's a nice note-unexpected and joyful-and for the next 15 minutes things are right with the world again. That is, until the phone rang. Pfsst! Oh well, the mail comes again tomorrow. Maybe…" Trying to figure life out is a futile enterprise; one destined for sure failure.

Here are some suggestions for making life-all of it-more pleasurable and more useable:

Don't run from trouble.

You can't go fast enough. Trouble will find you. Face it head-on and with determinate faith. There is no temptation bigger than you can bear if you put your confidence in God (1 Cor. 10:13). And there's no problem that can't be solved if you keep in touch with your spirituality. Even the fear of death is conquerable if you have sufficient trust in your Master (Heb. 2:14-16, 1 Cor. 15:51-58).

Don't let discouragement rob you.

Discouragement is one of the Devil's most functional tools. It wrestles a man down by robbing him of his faith, and in doing so, saps his energy to keep on. It strikes every age, every spiritual level. It causes faith to flag and determination to become impotent. It's a power-grabber, discouragement is. But faith is still the answer. Trusting confidence in God will triumph over discouragement. But you have to engage it. You have to shove your faith in front of the discouragement before it can conquer it. Listen to what God said: "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Heb. 13:5). Do you believe it?

Remember, down doesn't have to mean out.

Just because you lose a battle now and then doesn't mean you've lost the war. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and get back into the fracas again. There's work to be done, people to see, prayers to make, lessons to learn. Activity is the key to winning. Don't every quit. Only the weak quit. "Brethren, I count no myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (Paul, in Phil. 3:13-14). "I press," said Paul. You must do so too, for he closes the admonition with "Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded." Are you?

And remember, most of all, that you and God make a majority.

There is no force on earth strong enough to separate you from His love and to keep you out of His kingdom. Not even death itself can do it. Certainly, we may boldly say, "…the Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do to me." Paul said, "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? …Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors, through Him that loved us." Stay with God and you can't lose, folks.

And finally, remember that Solomon said, "In the day of prosperity rejoice; in the day of adversity consider, for God hath set the one over against the other…" (Eccles. 7:14). Don't try to second-guess Providence, or ask "why me?" Relax and let it happen. Don't ask, "Why has God allowed this?" Rather, ask, "What does He want me to do with this?" Allow the good days to cause rejoicing. Allow the bad ones to increase your learning.

Life is happy for those who love God and are keeping His commandments, no matter what comes along. After all, life is constructed of two things: good days and bad days.

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A People Acceptable to God

2008-09-01T20:15:00.000-07:00

by Larry Rouse
www.cvillechurch.com

Worldly men have always sought to turn their attention away from God to pursue their own lusts. One of the most obvious examples of this is found in the kinds of man-made religion that are centered upon the praise of men with no view of God and His pleasure. Men can be caught up in this kind of thinking to the point where they have a great confidence that God will be with them in anything they may do, just because they want to do it. The scriptures give us several examples of the tragedy that this approach will bring.

Aaron was one of the great men of the Old Testament, being the first High Priest of God and a close partner with Moses in his work. Aaron knew the character of the living God and was well prepared to stand before Him as the High priest. Unfortunately Aaron failed to teach two of his sons, Nadab and Abihu, about the nature of the one true God, and as a consequence, these “2nd generation” children thought they could treat God and His ways lightly. This attitude was reflected in their rejection of “traditional” worship which, in fact, was God’s instructions on how they were to approach Him. They were sure, that because of their position and familiarity in the service of God, that these past rules were flexible to this new generation. God intervened in a way so that their generation and every succeeding generation might learn a valuable lesson.

“Then Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer and put fire in it, put incense on it, and offered profane fire before the Lord, which He had not commanded them. So fire went out from the Lord and devoured them, and they died before the Lord (Leviticus 10:1-2).”

What message was God communicating in this event? On the surface we can understand that the “strange fire” which was used by these young men in their version of “contemporary worship” directly violated God’s specific choice of having the fire for their censers come from the altar (Leviticus 16:12).” These young men had not just committed a single transgression; they had approached a living God that they never knew. When Aaron came upon this tragic scene and observed the dead bodies of his two sons, Moses gave a brief, but pointed, explanation of why this had occurred: "And Moses said to Aaron, “This is what the Lord spoke, saying: ‘By those who come near Me I must be regarded as holy; And before all the people I must be glorified.’” So Aaron held his peace (Leviticus 10:3).

Do you understand how this truth applies to us today?

If you are a Christian, you are a priest who is to offer spiritual sacrifices to the same living God (1 Peter 2:5). When we approach Him, we must approach Him as a holy God with our sole motive being that of giving Him the glory. Do you really know God and how to approach Him?

When we seek to teach, to worship or to even think about God, we must limit ourselves to what God has revealed. “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God (1 Peter 4:11a). Christians have rightly quoted this verse to show how we should handle the Bible and how we should not assume to speak for God when He is silent. We would do well, however, to quote the rest of the verse and learn of the fruits of such an approach. “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen (1 Peter 4:11a)”.

We live in a time where a generation has arisen that does not know God. Those who point to staying within the authority of God by giving “book, chapter, and verse” for all that we do and teach (Colossians 3:17), are being labeled as “legalist,” “divisive,” and “dead” simply because they ask for Bible authority for all practices. The spirit of Nadab and Abihu lives on and abounds in this age.

As we try to serve God in this generation there are several questions we might ask. Should we use mechanical instruments of music in worship? Should worship become a performance for the talented and be centered upon the desires of men? Should local churches use the collection taken in the assembly and spend it for social meals, recreation, secular schools and even business arrangements? Does it really matter if we use speakers from various religious backgrounds to fill our pulpits?

The questions we might ask will vary from generation to generation, and from congregation to congregation, but the approach God wants us to take in finding these answers is the same for all. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God (Romans 12:1-2).”

What does God see when He looks into our hearts? There are many who will apply God’s standards to outward matters but refuse to let the thoughts of their hearts be examined. How do you respond to one who has wronged you? ”Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled (Hebrews 12:14-15).

There is a service that is acceptable to God and a service that is not. Are you renewing your mind each day by testing your heart and your practices by proving the will of God? Is the local church of which you are a part glorifying God in this way, or do they close the Bible to examination by calling others names and appealing to outward things such as numbers and the things money can buy?

One day you and I will stand face to face with the God of heaven. It is my prayer that we together will stand in joy because through the grace of God bestowed upon us through the sacrifice of Christ, that we have, in turn, lived a life with the glory of God being our sole purpose. That is the sacrifice that alone will be acceptable to God.

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The Sin of Prejudice

2008-08-30T13:07:00.001-07:00

by Jesse M. Kelly
www.cvillechurch.com

It was John Bright who said, "Ignorance is the mother of prejudice." We have observed this to be a true saying. The more uninformed one is the greater his prejudice is apt to be. Webster's New International Dictionary defines it thusly: "An opinion or leaning adverse to anything without just grounds or before sufficient knowledge." The mind that is uninformed in Bible teaching is usually the most prejudiced against its truths. The prejudiced mind is a perverse mind. It is unyielding and headstrong. It has a disposition which leads to the rejection of truth for the sake of preference in any matter. It is a disposition which says, "I am right," regardless of argument, logic, or truth.

Prejudice has ever been the great enemy of the souls of men. We should make a tremendous effort to liberate ourselves from anything that would hinder the acceptance and progress of truth, for it is the truth that shall make us free. Paul said: "Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that you should obey the lusts thereof; neither present your members unto sin as instruments of righteousness unto God." (Rom. 6:12) He then informs us that with freedom did Christ set us free; and then admonishes to "stand fast therefore, and be not entangled again in a yoke of bondage." Prejudice is that which binds us to our own ways and to sin. It has ever been a yoke that has bound the minds of men to the ignorance which mothered it.

Look at the Jews of Jesus' day. Jesus said to them: "I know you are Abraham's seed; yet ye seek to kill me, because my word hath not free course in you." (John 8:37) Why did not the words of Jesus have free course among the Jews? Because of their prejudice. They would not give up their ideas and opinions, and seek the truth, though it was demonstrated to them by the most wonderful and astounding miracles ever performed. Well did Jesus say: "If they hear not Moses and the prophets they will not be persuaded, though one rose from the dead." They were bound down, not from any incapacity, nor because they were dead, or blind or deaf, but by the strong tyrant of prejudice, whose history is one of ignorance and crime and disobedience to God. It was prejudice that shed the blood of the Son of God and stoned the innocent Stephen. It has persecuted God's people in every age of the world; and has been the great barrier to the progress of truth since Cain murdered Abel. it has caused man to set aside God's law, and instituted works of his own devising instead, and has ruined his soul. It says, "hold to your preference and opinions, even to the rejection of the will of God."

"Behold this only have I found that God made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions." (Eccl. 7:29) "He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool; but whoso walketh wisely shall be delivered. Ignorance and prejudice have caused man to "establish his own righteousness, not submitting himself to the righteousness of God." "But in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the precepts of men." (Matt. 15:9) This is the ultimate end of ignorance and prejudice. Again in Psalms 18:26, 27 we have, "With the pure thou will show thyself pure, and with the perverse thou will show thyself forward. For thou will save the afflicted people; but the haughty ever thou will bring down." There is but one course for men to follow in this life that can be acceptable to God; one way that he be absolutely sure about, and that is God's way. Moses said: "For I will proclaim the name of the Lord. Ascribe ye greatness unto our God: The Rock, His way, is perfect; for all his ways are judgment..." (Deut. 32:3, 4)

The battle between truth and error, right and wrong, is fought along the line of prejudice. Take away prejudice and all religious controversy would end. Truth alone cannot overcome prejudice, though presented with all its power. Only honesty will do this; only the innate sense of right and wrong can remove from man his own perverse disposition. It is left to the will and free choice of man to regulate his character to the truth. He has the power of choice in the matter of his own conduct. His conscience together with his power to choose between right and wrong, with the resulting rewards and punishments, leads him to accept the truth, and lay down his own self-will. When man's heart becomes so corrupt as to lose the sensibilities of, and regard for right and truth, to the extent that he loses his regard for himself and respect for God, he becomes impenetrable to the truth. Man may know and understand the truth, yet reject it and refuse to obey.

The trouble with the Jews was that because of their own will and opinions and prejudice, they shut their eyes and stopped their ears and the truth could not reach their hearts. Consequently the Savior was rejected by them. This is the trouble with a great portion of mankind today. Man's disposition is to have his own way, follow his own wisdom, and to worship God after his own inventions. He devises ways and means to carry out God's divine ends in a different way from that God has ordained. He will hold to them as dearly as he will to life itself, and his prejudice will condemn his soul. This was the failing of the Jews in Jesus' day, and after his rejection we hear him saying, "Oh Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate." (Matt. 23:37, 38) Their prejudice, mothered by their ignorance and traditions and creeds, kept them from accepting the Savior of the world, and as a result God turned away from them, and their house was left desolate.

Then we can see the danger and degrading influence of prejudice. Let us then, whatever our religion, make a tremendous effort to free ourselves from it, for until we do we will be bound down and in ignorance reject the truth which is able to save the soul.

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How Good is "Good Enough?"

2008-08-28T19:05:00.000-07:00

by Mark E. Larson
www.cvillechurch.com

Do we understand what it means to be saved by grace? Though many claim to depend on the grace of God for their salvation, many continue to live life as if they must earn their way to Heaven. “Am I good enough?” “Have I done enough?” “Have I pleased God enough that I may enter Heaven?” Out of concern for your eternal salvation, have you ever asked yourself these kinds of questions? If so, you may not understand salvation which is by grace - a favor bestowed freely by God, a gift we did not deserve.

“The Gospel of the Grace of God” (Acts 20:24)

The gospel teaches that salvation is by grace (Eph. 2:5). Therefore, to leave grace out of the gospel is to teach a perverted or contrary gospel (Gal. 1:6-7). Yet, that is exactly what we do when we ask the question: “Am I good enough to be saved?” Such a question does not put trust in God’s grace, but “confidence in the flesh” or our own good works for our salvation (Phil. 3:2-3). Just as “salvation by grace only” or “salvation by faith only” are falsehoods, so is “salvation by works only” a false doctrine which can cause us to be lost.

Our understanding of the gospel of grace is absolutely essential. For the attitude we bring in our service to God has the power to justify or condemn us eternally (Luke 18:9-13).

Must Our Good Deeds Outweigh Our Bad Deeds?

There are many New Testament passages that teach that we will be judged according to our deeds (Mat. 16:27; Rom. 2:6; 2 Cor. 5:10; Gal. 6:6-10; Col. 3:23-25; Rev. 2:23; 20:12; 22:12; etc.). Does it therefore follow that our good deeds must outweigh our bad deeds on Judgment Day? Muhammad thought so as taught in the Koran: “Then, he whose balance (of good deeds) will be (found) heavy, will be in a life of good pleasure and satisfaction. But he whose balance (of good deeds) will be (found) light will have his home in a (bottomless) pit.” (SURAH 101:6-9, The Holy Quran). Is this what the New Testament also teaches? If so, by what standard or measurement do we use to determine if our good deeds are “heavy” enough to merit our eternal reward?

The Gospel is Not a Meritorious Law System.

According to Romans 2:5-11, our obedience is of great importance to God, yet God will in no way “strike a balance” by rewarding Christians whose goods deeds outweigh their bad deeds on Judgment Day. Further in the text, the apostle explains how a person could be right with God (justified) if it was only through our keeping the law (any law; Rom. 2:12-16): “For not the hearers of the Law are just before God, but the doers of the Law will be justified (v. 13). How good is “good enough” to be right with God? Only perfect law-keeping would be “enough”! Yet, no one has been able to do this (Rom. 3:10, 23).

God’s Justice is satisfied only by the Blood of Jesus Christ. Since “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23) how can God’s justice be satisfied? Only through the blood of Jesus! “Being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus; whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith…” (Rom. 3:24-25ff.). “The law of faith” declares that we are “justified by faith apart from works of [the] law” (v. 28) – any law-keeping in attempt to merit our salvation. No one can achieve righteousness (a right standing w/ God) by their own efforts of good works (Phil. 3:9). All need the blood of Jesus to be right with God.

Justification by Faith vs. Justification by Meritorious Works

“Abraham believed God and it was accounted to him for righteousness” (Rom. 4:3). Unable to boast by his “works” (i.e., unable to meet the “full quota” of good works), Abraham was justified by faith! (Rom. 4:1-5). Abraham’s faith in God was not faith alone, but an obedient faith which trusted in God for salvation (James 2:20-24).

“Now to him who works, the wages are not counted as grace but as debt” (Rom. 4:4).

The person who “works,” who does not put his faith in the Lord for salvation, is one who labors to earn his reward (i.e., righteousness before God). His reward is not a favor, but a debt owed to him based on personal merit. The serious problem in this approach is that a person would have to obey the law flawlessly to gain his reward! There can be no other kind of worker that God owes a reward! Yet, there is no such worker among men (3:23).

The Blood of Jesus is the Source of Our Righteousness.

Since we sin or fail to perform good works perfectly, we cannot be right with God unless we are forgiven of our sins. And forgiveness is found only through the blood of Jesus (Eph. 1:7). Our sins will be charged to our account unless we go to Christ in faith for the forgiveness of our sins. Only then will we be righteous: “Just as David also speaks of the blessing upon the man to whom God reckons righteousness apart from works: Blessed are those whose lawless deeds have been forgiven, and whose sins have been covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will not take into account." (Rom. 4:6-8). To whom does the Lord credit righteousness to his account? To the person whose sins are forgiven! When a person responds in obedient faith to the gospel of Christ, their sins are covered the debt of sin is cancelled! (Acts 2:38). Only in Christ can we be righteous before God (2 Cor. 5:21). Christ, not our works, is the source of our salvation (Heb. 5:9).

In What Sense will we be judged According to our Works?

God does the saving, not us (Tit. 3:5), but we must come to Christ to be saved. Sins we committed in life and did not repent of and receive forgiveness for will remain in the “record books” and be held against us at the Judgment (Rev. 20:12), unless we obey the gospel to have our sins washed away (Acts 22:16; cf. 2 Thes. 1:8). Once in Christ, we must demonstrate our faith by our works of obedience (Jas. 2:14-26). Our deeds in life demonstrate our faithfulness or unfaithfulness to God (2 Cor. 5:6-10). God is faithful to forgive Christians, but we must confess our sins with a penitent heart to be forgiven (1 Jn 1:9; Acts 8:22). This is a requirement of continued fellowship with God (1 Jn 1:5-10).

How good is “good enough”? No one is good enough without the grace of the Savior!

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The Firm Foundation of God

2008-08-20T11:50:00.001-07:00

by Homer Hailry
www.cvillechurch.com

In every age the church has had some things in common with the church of preceding ages. There always have been things to discourage the strongest, and test the most steadfast. There have been false brethren within, along with bickerings and strife; false teachers without, historical epochs which have threatened the very life of Christianity, and waves of indifference to spiritual things. Some of these things Paul mentions as he writes to Timothy, encouraging him to steadfast continuance in his work in the Lord; making special mention of "profane babblings," "striving about words to no profit," and false teaching on the resurrection.

But along with these things, each age has had that which encourages, that to which men could lay hold with no fear of it giving way, or being shaken. In the very midst of these things discouraging in their nature, the apostle says, "How be it the firm foundation of God standeth, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his: and, Let every one that nameth the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness." (2 Tim. 2:19)

This age is little different from others that have come and gone. To be sure the specific details are different, but so far as problems are concerned, and changes taking places with regard to the preceding generation or age, it is no different. Today nations are passing, old ideals are changing, the security of those things in which men have been wont to trust is being questioned, and a new wave of infidelity is dashing itself out against the "Rock of Ages," "foaming out" its "own shame." But these things have happened before. They were happening in Paul's day, when he wrote as he did to Timothy. Howbeit, in the midst of all these, "The firm foundation of God" stood, and stands, a sure foundation upon which one can build, and feel secure.

In the midst of the vast uncertainty of today, and the near panicky attitude that some take, begetting a pessimism that is even being felt in the church at various places, there are three things set forth by Paul in 2 Tim 2 that need to be emphasized by Christians, especially preachers and teachers, everywhere: 1) The definite principle of the character of God as set forth by Paul in verses 11-13; 2) The fact that the "firm foundation of God stands," though all else may be perishing; 3) The Lord knoweth them that are His," and that His demand of them that are His, is that they "depart from unrighteousness."

When the apostle said, "If we shall deny him, he also will deny us: if we are faithless, he abideth faithful; for he cannot deny himself," he simply stated a definite principle in the Character of God. God cannot act contrary to His nature, and His nature is definitely set forth in the revelation of Himself in the Bible. It matters not how dark the hour, how hopeless the immediate prospects, how strong the pressure brought to bear; man is still without excuse for his sin, and should he deny God even under these circumstances, God cannot but be faithful to Himself, "he also will deny us."

The emphatic stressing of this principle in the Character of God will tend to build determination in the hearts of those honestly seeking heaven. It will likewise eliminate the necessity of so much "re-consecrating," "rededication," "restoration" of members in the meetings sometimes held. There are those who are "overtaken in a trespass," these are to be restored, certainly. There are those who "err from the truth," these must be converted, James urges it. But much of the half-hearted attitude that serves God "a little bit," and the devil "a right smart," oftentimes results from a lack of understanding of the character of God, and the principle that He "cannot deny himself." Once the principle is fully appreciated, greater care in conduct will be exercised.

But in the midst of ungodliness, troubles, turning away from God, and the denying of Him by those who should be faithful, the "firm foundation of God standeth." Here we have something solid upon which to build, and to which to hold, in the midst of any storm, internal or external.

God promised that in Zion He should lay for a foundation, a "tried stone" (Isa. 28:16), which Peter affirms to have been the Christ, (1 Peter 2:6). Christ built His church upon this very foundation, (Matt. 16:18; 1 Cor 3:11); and every individual built into that structure, is builded upon it (Eph. 2:19-22). While old institutions were crumbling, and passing away, the apostle said of the Hebrews in his day, that they were "receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken." (Heb.12:28). Here we have something stable and certain in any time of uncertainty, doubt, or fear.

What is the point in all this? Simply this: that when those in the church fully appreciate the fact that the only things today which cannot be shaken are the things that pertain to the church, to the kingdom of God, then the church will become more precious to them. When it is appreciated that "the firm foundation of God standeth," regardless of all things else, the laying up of treasures in heaven will have greater prominence in the lives of its members, and the cares of riches and temporal things here, less.

But the "seal" of this assurance should not be overlooked. "The Lord knoweth them that are his." Sometimes we become impatient, we feel that the Lord has forgotten us, and like Elijah of old, "I alone am left." But the Lord knows them that are His. It is He who calls them, through the gospel; and it is He who justifies. He adds to the church, cares for His own, and "knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation." One need not worry about the Lord forgetting him, for He will keep His part of the covenant. He will "in no wise fail thee, neither in any wise forsake thee." "He knoweth them that take refuge in him."

There is another side of the seal also, "Let every one that nameth the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness." Although they never won a discussion on the subject, the Baptists used to debate that an individual once saved could not be lost. However, the doctrine seemed so attractive to the worldly minded, that some, while not actually believing it, yet live in the church as thought it were so. They claim to trust God, while at the same time they depart not from unrighteousness. But the apostle said, "If we are faithless, he abideth faithful; for he cannot deny himself." Does Paul mean God will be faithful to save even though the individual does not continue faithful? Certainly not! But that God is faithful, "if we deny him, he also will deny us." The demand that those who know God depart from unrighteousness must be stressed today. —- Bible Banner - December 1941

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Doctoring the Bible

2008-08-15T10:12:00.001-07:00

by Cled E. Wallace
www.cvillechurch.com

There is no short cut to a knowledge of the Bible. Publishers of and agents for specially edited Bibles with fancy trimmings and helps of various kinds have reaped a considerable profit for themselves by raising false hopes in the minds of the gullible, who would like to have, and imagine they can get, a knowledge of the Book without much hard work. The price tags attached to such wares are far from modest and in some instances so ridiculous they reflect on the intelligence of the customer. When the Bible with "helps" costs considerably more than twice as much as the same Bible without the "helps," it ought to occur to somebody that too high a value has been placed on human help. Some books of the sort are helpful after a fashion but they contain no magic that will cause one to absorb knowledge from sleeping with one of them under his pillow. This is true even of the best ones.

A lot of sectarian and speculative propaganda is spread about with the help of these doctored, high-priced Bibles. Sales resistance is entirely too low among the brethren, and especially the sisters, when some of these talkative vendors ring the doorbell. When one is let in, he should be viewed with enough suspicion to give a healthy curiosity a chance to determine what he is and what he has. A very intelligent sister asked me to inspect a book she had bought from an agent for a financial consideration of several good American dollars. The agent got the money and she was laboring under the impression that she was getting just what the doctor ordered to help her and her household to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. What she got was "Bible Readings For the Home Circle." Sounds good, doesn't it? And it was mechanically very pleasing to the eye and had pictures in it. The agent of course did not tell the sister that he was a Seventh Day Adventist and the book was arranged for the spread of Adventist doctrine. When she found that out, was she mad!

There are a lot of people, too, who do not distinguish between the text of the Bible and the comments made upon it in some of these highly specialized editions. Some brethren proudly display their "Scofield" Bibles until somebody tells them that the Scofield part is the rottenest sort of premillennial propaganda, and then they nearly die from shock. Anybody who buys one of the things without knowing what he is getting is being sadly imposed upon. A lot of men who write Bible "helps" are in need of a liberal amount of help themselves, or past the point where any amount of it will do them any good. Brethren can at least take care not to pay out good money in exchange for such blindness on paper. "Our" own publishers are not too careful, conscientious or something, sometimes, when it comes to what is said about such works advertised in their catalogs. In one of them, I have seen the "Scofield Bible" praised as though it were almost inspired exegesis, instead of the pitiful, driveling web of fancy which it really is.

Brother Larimore was wont to say that a fairly intelligent human being of either sex, was very well equipped to increase his knowledge of God, if he had a good text of the Bible, a good English dictionary and a good Bible dictionary. There is some wisdom here. This is no argument against the reading of good books, or the use of any "helps" that are helps. It does add up to this. There is no way to really learn what is in the Bible without reading and studying the Bible itself. Few students are capable of passing an examination on any subject, history for instance, after only one casual reading of a text and listening to a few lectures. The text must be read, re-read and studied. So it is with the books that make up the Bible. And dealing with the Bible after such a fashion yields tremendous and pleasing results. A student should read the gospels until he knows the life of Christ. He should read the book of Acts until he knows the history of the early church. He should read the epistles until he knows what the Lord expects of His church and His people.

If he reads these things often enough, he will know them just like he knows other things he is interested in enough to read about. Some brethren can tell us where Joe Louis landed every punch on Lou Nova and which fist he used, who can't quote a memory verse at a prayer-meeting. There are two reasons for this. In the first place, they are not at prayer-meeting and in the second place they do not know the memory verse. It isn't lack of ability, it is lack of interest.

This is really a serious matter. "Wherefore be ye not foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is." (Eph. 5:17) "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly." (Col. 3:16) The prevailing ignorance of the word of God on the part of large numbers in the church is both amazing and appalling. I still think we know more about the Bible than our religious neighbors do, but that just goes to show what I think about how little they know. It is my conviction that if an ignorant brother with a fairly good mind would pick out one book in the New Testament, start with a few interesting facts about it, and then read it over and over until he knew it, he would be so proud of himself and feel so good otherwise that he would keep up the good work and really find out what growth in grace and knowledge means. Reading the Bible should not be viewed as a task, or drudgery. The pleasure it affords is commensurate with the profit it yields. There is no short cut to a knowledge of the Bible. The, man who knows it was not born that way. He got that way by keeping company with the Book and behaving himself intelligently while he was at it. —- Bible Banner - October 1941

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How Does the Holy Spirit Lead?

2008-08-07T08:42:00.000-07:00

by Marshall Patton
www.cvillechurch.com

Obviously, the Holy Spirit does lead certain ones. "Sons of God" are thus led. "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God" (Rom.8:14). Jesus was "led up of the Spirit" into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil (Matt. 4:1). Paul and his companions were being led on their journey by the Holy Spirit when they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, "having been forbidden of the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia," and when "they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit of Jesus suffered them not" (Acts 16:6-7). The Holy Spirit led Peter to the house of Cornelius, and Philip was led by the Holy Spirit to the eunuch.

No one denies the fact that the Holy Spirit leads or guides. Many, however, differ on the matter of how he leads. Some believe and teach that the Holy Spirit acts miraculously in leading to salvation and sanctification, without means or instrumentality. These fail to recognize a difference in ordinary and miraculous manifestations. They want to make every action of the Spirit toward the sinner or saint miraculous. Some who claim to be Christians feel that the Holy Spirit dwells in them personally and leads them to speak in tongues, heal, make utterances (preach) as the Spirit gives it to them, and even directs them in various experiences in life. One told of the Holy Spirit leading him to a parking space when he sorely needed one. Some seem to feel that the Holy Spirit in them serves like a radar beep leading, guiding, and warning always. We need to look to the Bible and see what it reveals about the leading of Deity.

Each member of the Godhead is said to lead just as each is said to dwell in us. Learning how Deity leads and dwells in us should clear up the confusion in the minds of many about the "how."
Some speak of the dispensations of God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit. They are referring to the times when God spoke directly with man or led by direct contact, when Christ was here on earth, and after Christ ascended and sent the Holy Spirit. Looking at how God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit led during these periods should help answer the question of this article.

God led Noah to build an ark wherein he and his family were saved from the flood (Heb. 11:7). The Genesis account tells us that God "said unto Noah . . . make thee an ark of gopher wood . . . and this is the fashion which thou shalt make it" (Gen. 6:13-16). "And Noah did according to all that the Lord commanded him" (7:5). How did God lead Noah to build the ark? He spoke to him in a language Noah understood, giving detailed instructions, and and Noah followed (did) all that God commanded.

God led Abraham out of Ur of the Chaldees. How? Abraham received instructions from God and his faith resulted in obedience (Heb. 11:8-9; Rom. 10:17; Gen. 12:1-4). God led Abraham by speaking to him and Abraham obeyed.

God led Israel out of Egyptian bondage, and through the wilderness (Deut.8:14-15; 29:4-5). In doing this he used the instrumentality of Moses and Aaron. "Thou leadest thy people like a flock, by the hand of Moses and Aaron" (Psa.77:20). He confirmed his leadership and his appointed agents by many miracles (plagues, parting waters, pillar of cloud and fire, etc.). God led them by choosing and equipping Moses who spoke God's will to the people and they obeyed.

Christ made disciples by teaching instruction. He commanded and they obeyed (Jn. 1:43). No mysterious or supernatural power possessed the individuals to make them follow Jesus. Miraculous proof that Jesus was from God, and was God, was given to induce faith in the individual to accept the instruction Jesus gave, and to follow him. People became followers of Christ by being taught - hearing, learning, and coming (Jn. 6:44-45). Jesus led people by speaking truth to them (taught in a way that they could understand) and they followed him. This is the same way that God led Abraham and Israel in their day.

The Spirit's Leading

We have already pointed out that the Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted by divine instruction and led Paul in his journeys by divine instruction. The word of God teaches that the Holy Spirit leads sons of God today (Rom. 8:14). Does he do it differently from other examples of the leading of Deity? A careful study of Scripture shows that the Holy Spirit, an intelligent speaking person, also speaks to people and they hear and obey.

There were different manifestations of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:4-7). The apostles were promised baptism of the Holy Spirit for revelation and confirmation of the word of truth (Acts 1:5; Jn.14:26; 16:13-15; 1 Cor.2:12-13; Mk. 16:20). There were "gifts of the Spirit" (miraculous powers) used in revealing and confirming truth (1 Cor. 12:1-11,28) that were bestowed on certain ones by the laying on of an apostle's hands (Acts 8:17-18; 19:6). These gifts of the Spirit were temporary and would vanish away when maturity (complete, finished revelation and confirmation of truth) was reached (1 Cor. 13:8-10).

The Holy Spirit led three thousand souls to be saved on Pentecost. How? The Holy Spirit came to the apostles with miraculous demonstrations, giving proof that these men were truly messengers of God. Peter spoke "as the Holy Spirit gave utterance." Many were convicted by the truth spoken and asked, "What shall we do?" The Holy Spirit, speaking through Peter, said, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins" (Acts 2). Thus about three thousand were led by the Holy Spirit to salvation, when they heard, believed and did just what the Holy Spirit said for them to do.

This is exactly how the Holy Spirit leads Christians today. Redeemed people need the leading of the Spirit in living the Christian life as much as they did in coming to Christ. In leading, guiding and edifying the Christian, the Spirit uses the instrumentality of truth - the revealed, confirmed word of truth. The word of God is said to be the "sword (instrument) of the Spirit" (Eph.6:17).

The Holy Spirit "speaks expressly" (1 Tim. 4:1-2) giving instruction, warnings, exhortations through the New Testament. The Holy Spirit has never laid aside the agency of truth, substituting fleshly feelings, emotions, or imaginations, in the guidance of Christians. Sons of God are led by the Spirit of God as they hear the Spirit revealed message of truth, believe and obey it. This is the way that Christians walk after the Spirit," "mind the things of the Spirit," are in the Spirit," "live in the Spirit," and are "led by the Spirit" (Rom. 8:1,4,5,9,13,14).

Deity has always led by the agent/agency of revealed, confirmed truth (God's will) being made known to man, coupled with man's faith and obedience. The leading of Deity never overrides the will (free moral agency) of man, so that he cannot choose to do or not do the will of God.

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Are You Tired of all the Gimmicks?

2008-07-28T18:04:00.001-07:00

by Frank Himmel
www.cvillechurch.com

People should be insulted by all the gimmicks that churches are offering to draw and to keep them. Most of it is directed toward families, the children in particular. I speak of all the secular, non-religious, non-spiritual gimmicks -- the picnics, luncheons and suppers, the parties, the sports teams, the fun and games, the square dances, the clubs and socials, the diet and exercise classes, and the fund-raising dinners and bazaars offered by churches. Classes and services that used to be purely religious are given new appearances with gimmickry.

Don't the people realize that the churches are saying, in effect, "We know that purely spiritual or religious activities and services, involving worshipping God, teaching and learning His word, edifying and being edified spiritually, are not enough to draw and to keep you. So we are featuring all these other secular activities in which you are probably more interested and adding a little religion to them and calling them 'Christian fellowship.' We are willing to compromise to get our crowd."?

So churches cease to be churches and become more like social, recreational, athletic, health, craft clubs. The Church of Christ is still a church, and we do not resort to gimmickry. We are trying to be like the churches you read about in the New Testament, not the churches around us.

The Work of the Church

Christians have God-given work to do, both individually and collectively. While there is much overlap, passages such as 1 Timothy 5:16 clearly indicate a difference between the two. What does the Bible teach about our collective work?

Spiritual

The Bible teaches that God ordained specific tasks for churches to perform. First-century congregations:

(1) Preached the gospel at home and abroad (1 Th. 1:8). This was done through instruction given in worship assemblies (1 Cor. 14:24-25), by people talking to those with whom they had contact (Acts 8:4), and by sending men out to preach (Ph. 4:15 -16).

(2) Built up the members of the congregation. Everything done in worship was to be unto edification (1 Cor. 14:26). Elders, spiritual shepherds, were charged with feeding the flock (Acts 20:28). Even severing association was an act of seeking to restore the erring (1 Cor. 5).

(3) Provided for needy brethren, either at home (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-35) or abroad (1 Cor. 16:1-2; Rom. 15:26). This third area, unlike the others, was not necessarily ongoing, but as needed. Since the church is a spiritual relationship, it is no surprise that its work is in the spiritual realm. So much of what modern churches do is conspicuously absent from the pages of the New Testament. The Bible makes no reference to churches operating schools or day care centers, providing recreational facilities and opportunities, being in the health care business, being a source for counseling and all sorts of social services, or even being a general charity. The fact that something seems like a good thing to us is no justification for altering God's plan. Neither do we have any right to employ carnal means to attract more people. See John 6 for the result.

Equipped

The Bible teaches that Christ equipped the church to accomplish everything He wants it to do. "And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service to the building up of the body of Christ" (Eph. 3:11-1 2).

God's provisions are simple, yet sufficient. It is only when we try to involve the church in an unauthorized activity that we find our resources or organization inadequate. Make no mistake: any argument that says we must go beyond the New Testament model for churches in order to be effective is a denial of the sufficiency of God's design!

Independent

The Bible teaches that each church governs itself, planning and executing its own work in keeping with Christ's directions. Elders' oversight is limited to the flock among them (1 Pet. 5:2). No New Testament church ever directed the work of another, wholly or in part. None ever planned a work beyond its ability to carry out. Each did what it could.

No New Testament church ever paid a human institution to do its work for it. There were no add-on organizations, no subsidiary "ministries," no missionary boards or societies.

Let us be busy doing God's work in God's way.

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Repentance Before Faith

2008-07-22T08:57:00.000-07:00

by W. Curtis Porter
www.cvillechurch.com

The following article of faith appears in many Baptist Church Manuals as a declaration of what Baptists believe concerning these matters:

"We believe that Repentance and Faith are sacred duties, and also inseparable graces, wrought in our souls by the regenerating Spirit of God; whereby being deeply convinced of our guilt, danger and helplessness, and of the way of salvation by Christ, we turn to God with unfeigned contribution, confession, and supplication for mercy; at the same time heartily receiving the Lord Jesus Christ as our Prophet, Priest, and King, and relying on him alone as the all sufficient Saviour." (See: Pendleton's Church Manual, p.51; Hiscox's Standard Manual for Baptist Churches, p. 64; and Cobb's New Manual for Baptist Churches, pp. 91-92.)

I would find no fault and offer no criticism concerning the teaching that repentance and faith are necessary conditions of salvation. Certainly, this is abundantly taught in the word of the Lord. But the order in the plan of salvation in which by Baptist Manuals and Baptist preachers is not sustained by reason or the Bible. As you may know, in harmony with the article quoted above, Baptists place repentance before faith in that plan. The following scriptures are offered, by them as proof that they should be so arranged:

"And ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him" (Matthew 21:32). "Repent ye, and believe the gospel" (Mark 1:15). "Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ" (Acts 20:21).

In all these passages repentance is mentioned before faith, and it is concluded by Baptist preachers that repentance must precede faith in the plan of redemption. Let us, therefore, make a little study of these matters In the light of God's word.

The Order of Mention Is Not Always the Order of Occurrence

The contention of Baptist to repentance and faith in this respect is based purely upon as assumption—they assume that the order of mention is the order of occurrence. Without this assumption there is no basis for the theory that repentance precedes faith. But this assumption is absolutely not true. Of course, when God promises a blessing on a certain condition, the condition must always precede the blessing. Salvation is based upon the conditions of faith and repentance. Necessarily, the conditions must precede the salvation. Likewise, baptism is made a condition of salvation (Mark 16:16), and, as such, It must precede salvation. But when salvation is offered on a number of conditions, the order in which the conditions are mentioned may not be the order of occurrence. To prove this just look at Paul's statement in Romans 10:9: "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." In this verse salvation is offered on the conditions of faith and confession, but confession is mentioned before faith. Must we say this is the order of occurrence? Can a man "Confess with his mouth" something he has "believed in his heart" before he has believed it? This would be impossible. So the order of mention in this passage cannot be the order of occurrence. Besides, the very next verse reverses it and mentions faith before confession. The order of mention could not be made the order of occurrence in both verses. The mere fact then that repentance is mentioned before faith does not necessarily prove that it comes before faith in the plan of salvation on.

The Significance of the Passages Investigated

Matthew 21:32 and Mark 1:15 are both addressed to the Jews who lived during the personal ministry of Christ on the earth. They were already believers in God. According to Matthew John the Baptist "came In the way of righteousness" but the Jews "believed him not," that is, they did not believe what he preached. "But the publicans and the harlots believed him." But the Jews addressed, after they "had seen it," did not afterward repent that they "might believe him." Since they were already believers in God, they could have repented toward God that they might believe the preaching of John. While this would be "repentance toward God" before "faith in John," It would not be repentance toward God before faith in God. Faith in God had to come first. The same can be said of the statement in Mark 1:15: "Repent ye, and believe the gospel." Again the Jews were addressed in this passage. They were already believers in God and could therefore repent toward Him that they might believe the gospel. This would be repentance before they believed the gospel, but it would be repentance toward Him in whom they already believed. Consequently, faith in God came before repentance toward God, and there is no comfort here for Baptist preachers in the proclamation of their doctrine.

While the language of Acts 20:21 is spoken concerning both Jews and Greeks, the principle involved is the same. Paul testified "repentance toward God" and "faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ." The repentance and the faith were not directed toward the same person. It was not "repentance toward God" and "faith toward God." Neither was it "repentance toward Christ" and "faith toward Christ." But it was "Repentance toward God" and "faith toward Christ." When the repentance and faith are directed toward the same person, the repentance is never mentioned before faith.

It Is Impossible to Make A Practical Application of the Theory

Some theories are like some men—they won't work. And this is one of them. Men may preach long and loudly that sinners must repent before they can have faith, but getting some one to do the impossible is quite another thing. Paul said in 2 Corinthians 7:10 that "Godly sorrow worketh repentance unto salvation." Repentance must follow "godly sorrow" as a result of it. But what produces the "godly sorrow"? Do you think it would be possible to produce godly sorrow in a man who has no sign of faith in God? Without some degree of faith in God no man could ever be led to "godly sorrow" or to "repentance toward God." And unless a man, to some extent, believes in Jesus Christ, he could never be led to "repentance toward Christ." Some degree of faith is absolutely indispensable in leading one to repent of his sins. It is contrary to all reason as welt as to revelation, for a man to insist that it is otherwise.

If It Could Be Worked; It Would Be Displeasing To God

I have had Baptist debaters, while engaged in discussion with me, make the claim that everything that an alien sinner does is displeasing to God and is a sin. They have based such contention on the statement of Paul in Hebrews 11:6. He says: "Without faith it is impossible to please him." All the acts of a man before he is saved, according to Baptist debaters, Is without faith, for just as soon as he has faith they say he is saved. Hence, they conclude that such a sinner cannot do anything that pleases God—everything is without faith and is therefore a sin. But in view of this, either it is Impossible for men to repent before faith, or if they should do so, it would not be pleasing to God, for "repentance before faith" is "repentance without faith." According to their doctrine, as outlined in Article VIII of their creed, it becomes a sin to repent of sin. This is but the absurdity of Baptist teaching.

They Say They Are Inseparable Graces

When faced with the consequences of their doctrine, they will then begin to hedge and say that you cannot say that repentance comes first for they are "inseparable graces." The very instant one occurs the other occurs. This has been illustrated by some of them by referring to a man's firing a bullet through a plank wall. They ask the question: "Which goes through the wall first — the hole or the bullet?" And they reason that there is no difference — they go through at the same time. Well, if this is a correct representation of repentance and faith in the plan of salvation, they should quit preaching that repentance precedes faith and revise their creed accordingly. If they occur at the same instant, one does not precede the other, and their creeds and their doctrines are wrong. They cannot have it both ways—-either repentance comes before faith or it dues not. Let them take their choice and Stick with it.

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A People of Refuge

2008-07-17T09:23:00.001-07:00

by Larry Rouse
www.cvillechurch.com

The identifying characteristic of God’s people is their love for and their involvement with one another. These identifying marks of the church of Christ are not merely outward beliefs or outward practices found only in our assemblies, but they are, in fact, shown by our willingness to lift up and care for others whenever their time of need arises. “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 13:34-35). It is no surprise that Jesus described the separation of the saved from the lost at the judgment day as being determined by service rendered or in service that was ignored to others in their time of need (Mt 25:44-46).

Make no mistake that every child of God must be determined to do “all things” the Lord has commanded (Mt 28:20). Still it is the human side of God’s commands, the willingness to sacrifice our time, our effort and our money to be intimately involved with others of vastly different backgrounds, that provides the greatest evidence of our faith in God. In order for us to help another, we must first empty ourselves just as our Lord did when He came to earth (Phil 2:1-8).

Everyone who comes to God understands their need of refuge. Our God provides a refuge, not one in a physical place, but in a spiritual place, a place that He describes as His church. When one is baptized in water he is then added by God to a spiritual family described as the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:13). Our primary care comes directly from God through His written revelation, His daily provisions and through the lives of those who were also washed in the blood of Christ. We come to God broken in our sin, rejected by the world and completely empty of any good that would obligate God to us (Matt 5:1-8). It is at this point where God begins rebuilding our lives, and a major tool that He uses in that process is the local church.

The Reality of the World

In this world we will find rejection, exploitation and slander. King David once cried out to God for refuge in a world that wanted to see him destroyed. “Have mercy on me, O LORD, for I am in trouble; My eye wastes away with grief, Yes, my soul and my body! For my life is spent with grief, And my years with sighing; My strength fails because of my iniquity, And my bones waste away. I am a reproach among all my enemies, But especially among my neighbors, And am repulsive to my acquaintances; Those who see me outside flee from me. I am forgotten like a dead man, out of mind; I am like a broken vessel. For I hear the slander of many; Fear is on every side; While they take counsel together against me, They scheme to take away my life. (Psalms 31:9-13)”

God responded to David’s call for help by providing such a refuge with Himself and with His people. “Oh, how great is Your goodness, Which You have laid up for those who fear You, Which You have prepared for those who trust in You In the presence of the sons of men! You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence From the plots of man; You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion From the strife of tongues. Blessed be the LORD, For He has shown me His marvelous kindness in a strong city! For I said in my haste, “I am cut off from before Your eyes”; Nevertheless You heard the voice of my supplications When I cried out to You. Oh, love the LORD, all you His saints! For the LORD preserves the faithful, And fully repays the proud person. Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart, All you who hope in the LORD. (Psalms 31:19-24)”

In the New Testament God describes how His people both receive help and give help to those who are weak and wounded. “Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed. (Hebrews 12:12-13)” What a comfort to find others willing to selflessly extend their hands to assist in my time of need!

Consider the needs of any man that comes to God for refuge.

The Truth about Sin

Jesus pleaded with men to understand the bad news about sin so that they might receive the good news. Any “comfort” that comes without first dealing with the issue of sin is a shallow and empty comfort. Sadly many churches of men have rejected the Bible as being inspired, and as a result, will never address the subject of sin as our Lord did. “Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins. (John 8:24)”
The Forgiveness of Sin

Peter instructed those who never knew the Lord to repent and be baptized for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:37-38). Christians were instructed by Peter to repent and pray to God so that “the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. (Acts 8:22)” What a comfort to find the entire, enormous burden of your sin lifted!

A People to Share and to Stand With

The power of a local church is found in our knowledge of our own forgiveness. Those who fail to grow in the Lord were described by Peter: “For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. (2 Peter 1:9)” Because of this, Christians above all people, will show mercy and be quick to receive and comfort all who repent and turn to the Lord. It is this forgiveness that we have in common and that makes this relationship so rich! We may be laughed at and ridiculed by the world, for the world does not understand the basis of our lives or of our companionship (Heb 10:32-35).

A People that Help Him to Remember and Renew His Faith

The people of God have assemblies for this very purpose. ”Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. 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, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:23-25)” In addition to these assemblies, the bulk of this encouragement is found in a day-to-day involvement with Christians in our homes and in our lives (Acts 2:46-47).

Have You Found this Refuge?

This refuge will not be found in the wisdom of men nor in their churches. This refuge will come when you find and claim the written promises of God and stand with others who do the same. God wants to provide, but He will only do so for those who look for Him. “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6)”

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Obscene movies and TV Programs

2008-07-10T13:15:00.000-07:00

by Gary Henry
www.cvillechurch.com

Few things frighten me any more than the passing comments I hear brothers and sisters in the Lord make about movies and TV programs they've permitted themselves to see. Just when I believe there may be a deepening spirituality among the Lord's people in our day, someone who is thought to be a part of the real strength of his or her congregation tells me what they rented at the video store last weekend or what they watched on TV last night -- and I find it difficult to be optimistic at all about where we are headed as a people. When it comes to telltale signs of spiritual shakiness, there are none more disturbing than the problem we have with obscene movies and TV programs.

How Bad Is It? It is an obvious fact that pop entertainment has gone from bad to worse in the matter of obscenity (as well as violence and secular philosophy, which are, of course, no less a problem). In regular broadcast television, not to mention cable TV or the movies, the language has grown increasingly profane and vulgar, producers are daily pushing the limits on nudity and sexual content, homosexuality has come out of the closet and onto the tube, and the "moral" values that are promoted are farther and farther away from anything the serious Christian can identify with. What is being pumped into our living rooms has changed for the worse so noticeably that even one secular writer previewed a recent TV season with an article entitled, "The Family Hour Fades to Black."

But the worsening of movie and TV content itself is not the whole problem. The acceptance of this fare by supposedly strong, faithful Christians is what is truly alarming. We may have an admirable devotion to the Lord in many things, but when it comes to entertainment we are bowing before the altar of television; we are going to the theater to see virtually any movie we believe we will enjoy; we are letting our kids watch nearly anything they want at the movies or on TV; we are paying to get the cable movie channels, which rarely carry anything the Christian can afford to be interested in; and we are renting movies at the video store that not too many years ago would have been classified pornographic. Basically, we've sold our souls for a mess of footage, and it is impossible to contemplate what has happened without being concerned about the future.

The Worrisome Aspect of the Problem. Obviously, none of us can say we have been entirely consistent in our entertainment, least of all this writer. To my discredit, I have been places and seen things no Christian ought to. But the thing about the present situation that seems different to me is that I'm encountering mature saints who not only watch obscene movies and TV programs, but defend their practice as perfectly acceptable conduct for the Christian! It's one thing to give in to temptation and, when confronted, offer excuses about not being as strong as one should be. But if, as is apparent, we have come around to the view that those who question our viewing habits are the ones with the problem, then we have entered a new and worrisome phase in the battle against obscenity.

Increasingly these days I'm hearing responses like the following whenever I express amazement at a movie or TV program a fellow Christian says he has seen:

· Well, it didn't have much profanity in it. I hear it so much at work, it doesn't bother me. I just tune it out.

· If it bothers or offends you, then it's not a movie you should see -- but it didn't bother me.

· If you can't handle it, you shouldn't see it -- but I've been out in the real world enough, I can handle it.

· If it embarrasses you, you shouldn't see it -- but I'm mature enough that things like that don't embarrass me.

· We rented it and watched it at home. There's nothing really wrong when it's just us.
Surely we can't fail to notice the common thread that runs through these remarks: that obscenity is acceptable entertainment for us if we personally have been so "desensitized" that obscenity no longer bothers, offends, or embarrasses us. That we think that way is cause enough for concern. But that we are pleased with ourselves for thinking that way is truly frightening. If we have, in fact, lost our sensitivity to obscenity and are patting ourselves on the back because of it, then we are not far from qualifying for Paul's description of those "whose glory is in their shame" (Phil 3:19).

But on the other hand, whether one is bothered or embarrassed has very little to do with the question of whether one should or should not indulge in certain entertainment. The Lord, if He were on earth today, would be strong enough to "handle" far more than any of us -- but you would not catch Him entertaining Himself with the stuff we watch. What it comes down to is that we've turned decency upside down when we start defining how spiritually mature and strong we are in terms of how little embarrassment we feel in the presence of obscenity.

Whether we realize it or not, we have adopted the basic posture of the Gnostic libertines of the first century. These were brethren who believed themselves to be a select group of Christians who had achieved such a high plane of strength and enlightenment that they could indulge in immorality and not be hurt spiritually. They liked to think the amount of fleshly indulgence they could "handle" was a sign of their advanced knowledge and sophistication. But John, as well as other inspired writers, called this enticing doctrine what it always is: a lie. He wrote, "If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth" (1 Jn. 1:6).

The NT Admonition to Purity. Need it be pointed out that the Scriptures call us to inner sanctity? Have we forgotten that the Lord said, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God" (Mt. 5:8)? Have we forgotten that Paul wrote, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy -- meditate on these things" (Phil. 4:8)? Whatever any of us individually may or may not be "bothered" by, the passage is still there waiting to be dealt with which says that there are some things not "fitting" for the Christian to dally with, among them "uncleanness" and "filthiness" (Eph. 5:3, 4). Those around us, whose souls we hope to reach with the gospel, deserve to see in us a better example. We owe it to them, as well as to the Lord and ourselves, to demonstrate that the path of purity is better than any other path we may follow.

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