The Pattern

Usually, when this phrase appears in a title for an article from a member of the Lord’s church, the reader acquainted with the Truth expects to read something about authority and the meaning, structure, worship and work of the church. And that is exactly what this article will be about, but maybe not in the way you’d expect.

“The Pattern” comes from a direct quote of the words of God to Moses concerning the preparation and construction of the Tabernacle (see Exodus 25 and 26 for full details):

(Exodus 25:9 NKJV) "According to all that I show you, that is, the pattern of the tabernacle and the pattern of all its furnishings, just so you shall make it.” And again as Moses is told how to erect it "And you shall raise up the tabernacle according to its pattern which you were shown on the mountain” (Exodus 26:30).

There is something extremely important about the “pattern” of the Tabernacle that Moses was told to make and raise in the wilderness at Mount Sinai. There is something instructive in it. It is not just that God has a definite pattern for everything He does, but the Tabernacle itself is a pattern of something else, that is, the church, the prophesied eternal kingdom of God. The writer of Hebrews speaks of the things of the Tabernacle as a “shadow” of heavenly things as he speaks of Christ Who has become our High Priest in heaven:  Entire Article

The Elect: God's Chosen People

To the Christians dispersed among the nations Peter writes: "But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy" (1 Peter 2:9,10).

What a privilege it is to be God's chosen people. "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, and the people whom He has chosen as His own inheritance" (Psalm 33:12). On the last day, only God's elect will be saved: "And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other" (Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27).  Entire Article

The Value of Small Things

by Walton Weaver

Zechariah asked the people of his day, "For who hath despised the day of small things?" (Zechariah 4:10). The people of Israel who had returned from Babylonian captivity were greatly disappointed as a result of the apparent insignificance of the temple being built under the leadership of Zerubbabel. When they compared it with the glory of the temple of Solomon, they wept with a loud voice when the foundation was laid (Ezra 3:12). At the completion of the building fifteen years later, it seemed to them to be nothing (Haggai 2:3).

This disappointment on the part of God's people during that period reminds us of the danger of overlooking the value of small things. Zechariah himself points directly to the danger by asking the question, "Who hath despised the day of small things?" A little reflection will help us see that most things that have become "great" have had small beginnings, and all great things are made up of smaller parts. We must never forget the small beginnings, or undervalue the small parts. Almost without exception the greatest contribution to the success of any endeavor is due to little things and ordinary people.  Entire Article

A New Dogma

by Edward O. Bragwell, Sr.

A new and dangerous dogma seems to be surfacing in the church. It is really old liberal denominational dogma in new garb. It seems to thrive more near college campuses, but is by no means confined there. We have detected it in the writings, speeches and conversations of some brethren lately. Some consider its promoters to be intellectuals. Fortunately, its influence has been felt but little in the average congregation.

These folks are similar to the Pharisee of old, but a little different. They trust in themselves that they are highly spiritual, humble and thank God that they are not as their brethren, proud, narrow, legalistic, negative, partisan, pharisaical and fossilized. They read their Bibles often, gaining new insights into its meaning to their lives through rapport with those of "other fellowships." They have learned that there is more to learn at the feet (or from the books) of theological liberals than from those who demand a "thus saith the Lord" for all things. They use some old words to most members of the church, but with new connotations.  Entire Article

The God Who Forgives

"Why should I be a Christian?" The very posing of this question implies that some people believe reasons exist why one should not be a Christian. Let us think about why someone would not want to become a Christian. Sometimes, a person hesitates in becoming a Christian because he believes that he is too wicked for God to forgive him. Often this person might feel like if he has not already, then some day he will inevitably go so far that God will not forgive him. The hesitant student is not the only person that fears this fate. Sometime even Christians wonder about God's continuing capacity to forgive, so let us consider what the Bible has to say about the God who forgives.

God Does Not Want Anyone to be Lost

Often people feel like God is a ferocious and cruel god, who longingly waits to instantly punish any man caught in sin. However, the Bible paints a different picture of God.  Entire Article

Are Piercings and Tattoos Wrong?

By Kevin Cauley

Not too many years ago in our society, one would not have expected to publicly encounter many individuals with odd body piercings or an assortment of tattoos. The few tattoos that one saw were either related to military service or biker gang association. Such, however, is not the case today. Just about anywhere you go now, you will encounter someone with a plethora of tattoos and/or body piercings. It's quite faddish, in fact. The question naturally arises in the mind of the conscientious Christian as to what God's word says on the subject. Is it wrong? Is it bad judgment? Is it a good thing? What do the scriptures say?

Under the Old Covenant, there was at least one type of body piercing that God approved. This was in the case where a master and slave had such a good relationship that the slave desired to give his entire life and the life of his family to his master. Under the Old Law, slaves were supposed to be set free during the Year of Jubilee (See Leviticus 25). However, the slave who did not want to be set free was to have his ear pierced to signify his desire to remain with his master (Deuteronomy 15:17).

The Old Covenant wasn't so generous, however, when it came to tattoos. Leviticus 19:28 states, "Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD." Most scholars believe that this prohibition was given as a mark of separation of the Israelites from the nations around them who practiced various forms of idolatry and which tattooing was related to their idolatrous practices. Israel was to be holy to the Lord (Leviticus 20:7) and maintain their separation from heathen practices (Exodus 33:16, Leviticus 20:24).

Needless to say, we are not under the same restrictions of the Old Covenant today (Acts 15:10, Galatians 5:1). Hence, our pattern for living comes from the example of Christ and also from the teachings of the apostles in the New Testament. While we have no direct prohibition for either piercings or tattoos within the New Testament, we have some principles that would regulate such conduct. Let's examine a few of those things.  Entire Article

Do We Have What the Apostles Wrote?

J. Early Arceneaux, Gospel Guardian, May 5, 1949

The question is often -asked: How do we know that the New Testament has the very writings of the apostles and their co-laborers? How do we know that we have substantially what they wrote? Some contend that we do not know, and cannot. Infidels have been very zealous in propagating this assertion. There have been so many corruptions of the New Testament, they say, so many additions, so many subtractions; that even if the apostles did write by inspiration, we still don't know that we have what they wrote.

We need, however, have little worry on that point. The Lord would hardly have taken the trouble to inspire men to write a book, and then not take the trouble to see that it was handed down. Scholars, some years ago, investigated this wild charge of the infidels very carefully; and revealed that in 300 years there were one hundred times as many corruptions in Shakespeare as there had been in 1800 years in the New Testament manuscripts!  Entire Article

Walk Humbly With Your God

“He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8).

Worldly people do not humble themselves before God.

God sent Moses to Pharaoh with the message: “How long will you refuse to humble yourself before Me? Let My people go, that they may serve Me” (Exodus 10:3). When Moses first asked Pharaoh to let the people go, he had replied: “Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, nor will I let Israel go” (Exodus 5:2).

God warns: “The one who has a haughty look and a proud heart, Him I will not endure” (Psalm 101:5). “I will punish the world for its evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; I will halt the arrogance of the proud, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible” (Isaiah 13:11).

“The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day. For the day of the LORD of hosts shall come upon everything proud and lofty, upon everything lifted up, and it shall be brought low” (Isaiah 2:11, 12).  Entire Article

Abortion: Without Natural Affection

by David Padfield

In the first chapter of Romans the apostle Paul listed the sins of the Gentiles. In this heinous list of crimes we find the phrase "without natural affection" (Rom. 1:31, KJV). This refers to those who do not possess the love and attachment which nature teaches all mothers to have for their young.

"This expression denotes the want of affectionate regard towards their children. The attachment of parents to children is one of the strongest in nature, and nothing can overcome it but the most confirmed and established wickedness. And yet the apostle charges on the heathen generally the want of this affection. He doubtless refers here to the practice so common among heathens of exposing their children, or putting them to death. This crime, so abhorrent to all the feelings of humanity, was common among the heathen, and is still. The Canaanites, we are told, (Psa. cvi. 37, 38) 'sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils, and shed innocent blood, even the blood of their sons and daughters, whom they sacrificed unto the idols of Canaan.' Manasseh, among the Jews, imitated their example, and introduced the horrid custom of sacrificing children to Moloch, and set the example by offering his own, 2 Chron. xxxiii. 6. Among the ancient Persians it was a common custom to bury children alive. In most of the Grecian states, infanticide was not merely permitted, but actually enforced by law" (Barnes' Notes On The New Testament).

The practice of murdering small children was also common among the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Chinese and Hindus. The murder of children and the infirm is not isolated to antiquity. The Nazi Holocaust began with the elimination of almost 300,000 Aryan German citizens who were "defective." Before Hitler was finished, his Nazi machine had murdered six million Jews, plus another 6 million Gypsies, Poles and prisoners of war.

Any woman who could destroy the child within her womb would have to be judged as one "without natural affection." During the decade of fighting in Vietnam there were 58,655 American war casualties. Our country now kills more unborn babies than that every fifteen days. During the six major wars our country has fought (Revolutionary War, Civil War, WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam) we have sustained 1,160,591 casualties. Since abortion was legalized in this country in 1973, over 23 million unborn babies have been murdered by their mothers. The remains of these precious lives are destroyed in hospital incinerators or thrown into dumpsters behind the abortion mills. There is no national cemetery for the unborn, no flag draped coffins, no national day of remembrance.  Entire Article

He Missed One Service!

Written by Unknown Author

Paul Harvey once reported on his noon news of a 73 year old man who was pinned beneath his farm tractor for four days and nights in driving rain and a terrible storm. Concerned friends went to see about him just in time. It seems that he is going to live after his ordeal, but he will lose a leg below the knee.

Several newspapers picked up on this little story and centered upon the amazing fact that a 73 year old man could live after being pinned beneath a tractor for four days. Yes, all of that is amazing, but a more amazing fact is what caused his friends to go to see about him. One friend gave as the reason for this visit that, "He missed prayer meeting Wednesday night." That’s all? He just missed one service and his friends went to check on him?

One preacher remarked, "I believe there are two possible suppositions we can make about this incident.” Consider the following:

On the one hand we could suppose that this man was so faithful and regular in his church attendance that everyone knew that if he was not there, something had to be seriously wrong. A question: What if you had been the one pinned under the tractor? Would your absence have been noticed? Or, are you so irregular in attendance that everyone would assume you decided to sleep in, or go to the lake? How many services have you missed in the last three months? Could you honestly classify yourself as a faithful, regular worshipper?  Entire Article

How to Lose Peace of Mind

by Johnny Ramsey

Jesus Christ came into this world as "the Prince of Peace" (Isa. 9:6). Men of good will can have peace on earth because of Him, as the angels sang (Luke 2:14). With the "gospel of peace" (Rom. 10:15) the Lord Jesus grants us peace that actually surpasses our understanding (Phil. 4:7). Through the blood shed on the Cross, we have our access to the removal of chaos and frenzy in our life-style: "For it was the good pleasure of the Father that in him should all the fullness dwell; and through him to reconcile all things unto himself, having made peace through the blood of his cross" (Col. 1:19-20).

Anything that hinders these rich blessings would be a crime against heaven. A great hymn proclaims:

Peace, perfect peace,
In this dark world of sin,
The blood of Jesus
Whispers peace within.

The best-selling book in the world, apart from the Bible, some fifty years ago, was written by a Jewish writer, and was entitled, "Peace of Mind." Every salient point came from the Bible - the Psalms, Philippians and the life of Jesus as recorded in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The Scripture already had the message! We often block the radiant bliss which God offers to our sad heart by expecting others to provide the secret of happiness when it really begins within our own grasp.  Entire Article

Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness (Meekness, Humility)

By Luis Zamora, June 1st, 2001 in Watchman Magazine

Among the fruits of the spirit listed in Galatians 5:23 is gentleness. As a fruit, it is something to be cultivated and brought about in maturity, and it is what the God who planted us desires that we produce. The New Testament shows that the word describes temperament or character and a way of behaving towards others.

The word translated gentleness or meekness is the Greek praiotes¸ and the lexicon tells us it means: Mild, soft, gentle:

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Growing Up In Christ

We must come to Jesus as a Child.

Our Lord expects everyone who comes to Him to come as if he/she were a child. Whether one is ninety years old or an adolescent who has just realized what sin is, GOD has established the pattern of His plan. "Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven" Matthew 18:3-4. A child will always look to his parents for guidance and this is what our Father in heaven expects from His children.

Feeding the new child in Christ.

When an infant is first born, most of its waking time is spent feeding and growing up into a child. Unfortunately many newly born Christians do not recognize that they also have many of the same needs as any newborn infant in the world. The apostle Peter readily reminded Christians how important it was to feed their spiritual life with the Word of GOD. "As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious" 1 Peter 2:2-3.  Entire Article

Attitudes that Lead to Apostasy

by Irven Lee

Israel was oppressed by armies of idolaters again and again because God gave them up to be punished after they rebelled against His law and copied the idolatrous world about them. The Lord would deliver them when they repented and prayed for help. The apostasy did not begin the day the invading and conquering army marched across the land killing and enslaving. Attitudes that led to their downfall no doubt developed gradually over a period of time.

In a private conversation in the late 1930s in the Gospel Advocate office, R.L. Whiteside told me that institutionalism would be the occasion of the next great apostasy. I did not know him very well and did not recognize the wisdom in his remark. I thought our fathers before us had gone through that and had put that behind us. In my ignorance I overlooked the fact that the devil uses the same tricks over and over again with only a little change in names and points of attack. Hundreds of thousands of my brethren were as blind as I was so there was not the proper teaching to immunize against the central agencies' taking money from churches and exercising control over them.  Entire Article

Three Publicans

Before we discuss the three publicans, we need to remember how the publicans were viewed by the rest of the Jews. Publicans collected taxes from their fellow countrymen for the Romans who had conquered Israel. It was a lucrative position and they often extracted exorbitant amounts from the people. They were hated by many.

When Jesus left the man He had healed of palsy, He saw Levi (Matthew) at the receipt of customs. Jesus said, "Follow me," and Matthew left all and followed Jesus (Matthew 9:9, Mark 2:13-17, Luke 5:27-32).  Entire Article

The Deity of Jesus, II

[Continued from last issue]

The Claims of Jesus

In addition to the above evidence, we have the recorded statements of Jesus, which contain His claims for divinity. Noteworthy examples include passages such as the following:

Jesus answered, “If I honor Myself, My honor is nothing. It is My Father who honors Me, of whom you say that He is your God. Yet you have not known Him, but I know Him. And if I say, 'I do not know Him,' I shall be a liar like you; but I do know Him and keep His word. Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad.” Then the Jews said to Him, You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?” Jesus said to them, most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM. Then they took up stones to throw at Him; but Jesus hid Himself and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.” (John 8:54-59)

Although the significance of Jesus' words may not be immediately obvious to us, the Jews of His day understood exactly what Jesus said. Please notice that Jesus did not say, “Before Abraham was, I was.” Instead, He called Himself, “I AM.” This expression, unique to deity, connotes a timeless being, having neither past nor future. Instead, deity simply exists. Its being transcends time. Furthermore, this is the root meaning of God's revealed name, Jehovah: “To be” “Being” or “Existing.” God is the existing, or eternal One. Jesus' wording choice becomes even more striking, when we consider the following passage:  Entire Article

Divinity relates to the quality, or state of being divine, above which exists no higher state. It is the state of infinite power, knowledge, and presence, also known as omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence. The heavenly Father is commonly recognized to be divine, to be God, but divinity of the other members of the triune Godhead is questioned by some. "Was Jesus divine?" "Was He God?" "Was He equal to the Father?" This article examines these questions, searching for answers from the pages of the Bible. This will have little significance to those, who do not truly believe that the Bible is the revealed words of God. However, for those that respect the Bible as a final authority, these thoughts are humbly offered.

Entire Article

Just like the omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence of God, the trinity can be difficult to comprehend in its fullness, because we have not directly experienced such infinite characteristics. However, just as the universe stands as a monument to God's power (Romans 1:18-20), so does the salvation of mankind attest to the unity of the Godhead, as we will see in this article.

Admittedly, trying to fully understand any characteristic of God can be intimidating, because of the immenseness of His holiness, and therefore, His distinctness from us (I Peter 1:13-16). Consequently, such a task should be approached humbly and meekly. However, this does not necessarily imply that it is impossible for us to learn something about God's nature, including the trinity. God did create man with a nature that was patterned after His own (Genesis 1:26-28), assuring us that we have been divinely granted a capability to both understand and adopt characteristics of the divine nature (II Peter 1:2-4). That being said, the infinite power of God (His omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence) are not part of the nature made available to us (Hebrews 2:5-9). Instead, we are to share in His moral characteristics: moral excellence (virtue), self-control, knowledge, perseverance, piety, brotherly kindness, love, justice, righteousness, etc. (II Peter 1:2-11; Galatians 5:22-25). In addition to this list, the unity of the Godhead must be included, which is the center of the mysterious triune nature.  Entire Article

How Can We Know the Truth?

This is a fundamental question in the religious world.

Especially in eastern religions people believe the ultimate source of truth lies within themselves. Such statements are made as: "There is a book of knowledge within every man!" "One gets all truth from the Book of Knowledge Within." "We tap the ancient wisdom and cosmic knowledge within, making it accessible and practical!"

To access this "truth within" people must perform bodily motions, chant mantras and meditate.

According to the Jewish and Christian Scriptures, the truth has been revealed by God in words that have been recorded as sacred Scripture for subsequent generations.  Entire Article

Religion for Everyday Use

by Cled Wallace

'"But we exhort you, brethren, that ye abound more and more; and that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your hands, even as we charged you; that ye may walk becomingly toward them that are without, and may have need of nothing." (1 Thess. 4: 10-12)

True religion can be practiced in work clothes at all hours of the day, any day in the week. It is practical life. It has a place in all work and all play of a legitimate character. It is something else besides a Sunday face and a Sunday dress. It is not an arbitrary code for polished piety and holiday use.  Entire Article

What is the Church of Christ?  Part II 

[Continued from last issue - From Watchman Magazine]

How Does the Church of Christ Relate to this Division?

In early America, different religious leaders arose in diverse parts of pioneer days, that were appalled by the division around the world. They realized that believers could never be united as long as human creeds, traditions and superstitions existed. These men began to raise a plea for the complete abandonment of human creeds, with a return to New Testament Christianity. Rather than reform denominations, they suggested a restoration of the New Testament church in the twentieth century! Among these leaders were Alexander and Thomas Campbell, immigrants from Scotland. As they began to preach a restoration to New Testament Christianity, other men (independent from the Campbells) were teaching the same thing by tossing out the creeds and accepting the Bible as the sole guide of faith and practice in religion. Reacting to this message with fervor, many thousands responded to this pure Bible teaching. Just as recorded in the Book of Acts, men and women in America were baptized upon repentance and confession of their faith in Jesus and were added to the Lord’s church. The church of Christ, identical to the faith and practice of the New Testament church, exists throughout the world today as it did in the days of the apostles.  Entire Article

What is the Church of Christ? 

[From Watchman Magazine]

Introduction to the Church of Christ (Historical Lineage)

Some denominations claim the ability to trace their historical lineage (an unbroken link of churches throughout history) directly to John the Baptist. Of course, this is impossible to do and is a false claim. The Lord’s church was not in existence while John was alive.  Entire Article

God's Word: Our Window to Heaven and Mirror of Our Soul

By Edward O. Bragwell, Sr.
The Reflector – June 2011

“Preach the man, and not the plan.” “Spiritual transformation comes from not looking at the rule, but looking at the ruler.” “You’re too busy looking at the Bible, rather than looking at the GOD of the Bible.”

What do all these catchphrases have in common? They are all phrases that we have either heard or read that proclaim the same basic message. Various versions of the first we have heard all of our lives from denominational circles and some liberal brethren. The second we have recently heard favorably quoted by brethren. The third was told to us by a brother who had it said to him.

The message conveyed, intended or not, is that to properly magnify God and His Son, we need to de-emphasize the word. From what I can ascertain that by looking past the word we are supposed to be able to somehow forge a closer personal relationship with Deity. Also involved is the misguided notion that strict adherence to the word is not nearly as important as the supposed personal relationship to God. As we have said, that denominational preachers have for years preached the “the man, not the plan” concept. In recent years, it is being warmed over by some of our younger preachers’ use of the clever catchphrases like we quoted above.  Entire Article

The Vanishing American Home

Glenn L. Wallace, Abilene, Texas, published in The Gospel Guardian, May 4, 1950

An editorial in the Life magazine entitled "The Family" reads in part as follows:

"We are witnessing an intercontinental divorce spree. The all-round champion is the U. S., where about one urban marriage in two goes on the rocks, thus approximating the record hung up by the 'Bolshevik free lovers' prior to Russia's familial reformation of 1936. And nobody knows how many American upper middle-class families are precariously held together because the partners feel that the Internal Revenue Bureau doesn't leave them enough money to support separate establishments. The morality of this situation is no less extraordinary than the statistics. As Dr. Holmes has truly said, 'When a Hollywood actress takes a fourth husband who is finding in her a fifth wife . . . they have no more to do with marriage than prostitution has to do with chastity.' "

The editor further suggests that many relief measures have been offered but that none have reached the bottom of the problem. Dorothy Thompson and many others would approach the divorce problem from the legislative side by urging national divorce laws. Such laws would prevent states offering competitive divorce bargains and thus bring more security to children. The editor suggests that some sociologists urge the Swedish system which includes loans to encourage early marriages, a subsidized family housing, etc., while there are others who would "lay the cold facts before the prestige class of America." The editor then concludes that every remedy to rescue the American family today was grasped at by the Augustine Caesars in their attempts to restore the family in the last 200 years of the Roman Empire.  Entire Article

The Maker's Mark

By Marc Smith

Psalms 14:1, “The fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.”

There is a feature that most of us put a lot of stock in. This is that any maker, whether he or she be an architect, painter, sculptor, potter, metal smith, gunsmith, jeweler; any of these, will usually leave their mark upon their creations. Their seal or stamp or signature assures the owner of its authenticity and worth; it’s very quality. Usually when we know who made a thing it tells us a lot of things we want to know about the thing itself and of its standards of usefulness or quality. A valuable and very fine Rembrandt, Vermeer, or a Matisse or even a Picasso can be authenticated by the artist’s signature and if the painting lacks such an identifying mark, then it is usually worthless. We look for those identifying marks to know whose it is.  Entire Article

What!  No Special Programs?

By Bobby Witherington
The Reflector - April 2011


Visitors to our assemblies are sometimes amazed (and maybe disappointed) to learn that this congregation does not have a special youth program. Nor a kitchen. Not even a bus ministry.

Do we have something against young people? Or kitchens? Or busses? Not at all. We have several young people, each of whom we appreciate greatly. Beside that, every member of this church either is, or used to be young. Obviously we have nothing against kitchens. In fact, I do not know of a family among us who does not have access to a kitchen. In view of the fact that several of our children ride busses every day, it is apparent that we do not have anything against busses.

Nevertheless, this congregation has never hired a youth minister, built a kitchen, nor owned a bus. In view of the fact that the private life of each individual member of this church is living proof that not one of us opposes young people, kitchens, or busses, why is it that we as a collective unit, each acting in concert with the rest, have never developed a special youth program, built a fellowship hall, or bought a bus?  Entire Article

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit

By Heath Rogers, May 29th, 2011 Watchman Magazine.

There are individuals in the religious world today who claim to possess the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit. Religious programs portray televangelists speaking in tongues and healing the sick. However, excitement over these gifts is no longer limited to “charismatic” churches. In recent years, I have heard members of several different mainstream denominations claim to have the ability to speak in tongues.

No one can deny that the apostles and some other Christians in the New Testament possessed the ability to perform miracles. The question that we will address in this article is whether or not the Bible teaches that these same gifts exist today?   Entire Article

Is Pouring or Sprinkling Baptism?

T. B. Wilkinson

"I indeed baptize you with water but he shall baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire." This, we are told, proves that pouring is baptism because the Holy Spirit was poured out on the apostles. What John said he did with water, Jesus would do with the Holy Spirit. But Jesus poured out the Holy Spirit when he gave it to the apostles. Therefore, John poured out the water when he baptized the people with it. Therefore, pouring is baptism.

Did Jesus pour out the Holy Spirit like a liquid? Is that the idea which we have of the Holy Spirit? Jesus said, "I will send him unto you, and he shall abide with you forever." Also we read of the Spirit. "He shall not speak of himself but whatsoever He heareth that shall He speak." Joel prophesied that God would pour out of His Spirit upon all flesh, and Peter said on the day of Pentecost that it was the fulfillment of this prophecy. What happened on the day of Pentecost is called the baptism of the Holy Spirit, according to John and Jesus. But the Spirit was poured out upon them.

But Joel did not say the Holy Spirit would be poured out, he said God would pour out of His Spirit upon all flesh. God poured out of His Spirit the power which came upon the apostles that day. The Spirit was the source of those powers that Joel said would be given to them on that day.  Entire Article

By Larry Rouse

What kind of power does it take to change a man’s heart? Our society may pass all the hate laws they wish, and seek out political and university leaders who claim they can change men, but in the end it is the power of God that must be used to achieve this daunting task.

One of the greatest examples of change in the Bible, the apostle Paul, started a trip from Jerusalem to Damascus with a heart that was “still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord” (Acts 9:1). By the time he returned to Jerusalem he was now a Christian, motivated by the grace of God (1 Tim 1:12-14).

A great example of such a change in the ministry of Christ came during the final hour of Jesus’ life. Jesus was placed upon a Roman cross to suffer a shameful and torturous death in an execution that was reserved for only the vilest of criminals. Two other men were executed along with Jesus. They were described as “criminals” and “robbers” (Luke 23:22; Matthew 27:38).  Entire Article

The Holy Spirit and the Christian, Part I

By Ferrell Jenkins

[Editor’s note: From the author’s website—”This article appeared in a “Special Number” of the Gospel Guardian (August 15, 22, 29, 1968). Later a few changes were made and the material was published as a tract by the C.E.I. Store. The tract has been out of print for several years.” The entire article may be seen at http://www.bibleworld.com/hsandxn.pdf and is available for printing in its entirety there.  It appears in this publication by the author’s permission on the same site. ]

In recent years there has been a resurgence of interest in the Holy Spirit and His work. Some brethren have undoubtedly been influenced by denominational doctrines of the direct operation of the Spirit in conversion, or of His enlightening them as to the true meaning of the Bible, or directing their everyday affairs. Much good material has been written which carefully deals with all of this. This writer has no illusions of being able to make a new “revelation” to the readers; perhaps we will be able to present the material in such a way as to be helpful to some.

The Holy Spirit dwells in the Christian. Does anyone deny this statement? I think not. The scriptural evidence for such an assertion is abundant. Carefully consider Acts 2:38; 5:32; Rom. 5:5; 8:9,11,26-27; 1 Cor. 6:19; 11 Cor. 1:21-22; Gal. 3:2; 4:6 (cf. 3:26-27 on how they became sons); Eph. 1:13; Phil. 2:1; 11 Tim. 1:14; Heb. 6:4; 1 John 3:24; 4:13. The disagreement is over the MANNER of the indwelling of the Spirit.  Entire Article

Legalism

by Keith Sharp

A few years ago a friend of mine who happened to be a college teacher and preacher for the Assemblies of God described me as "legalistic." After that another preacher, a member of the church of Christ, charged in print that I was a "legalist." Still later a young man who had studied with me while he was in the Army in New York returned home to California. The preacher in his home congregation informed him I was a "legalist." Do you get the idea that some folks think I am legalistic?

At this point you may be wondering what a legalist is. Don't bother to look in your Bible. The words "legalism," "legalist," and "legalistic" are nowhere to be found in Scripture.

You could do what I did. I looked up the words in my dictionary. I found that "legalism" means:

"the principles and practices characterizing the theological doctrine of strict conformity to a code of deeds and observances (as the Mosaic law) as a means of justification." (Webster's Third New International Dictionary [unabridged]. 2:1290)

Should we be legalistic? Let's just ask a few questions that pertain to this issue and let the Scriptures answer them.

Are We under Divine Law?  Entire Article

The Basic Error of the Protestant Reformation

We judge a tree by its fruit. In most ways great good has come from the Protestant Reformation. If we look at the countries where it flourished and compare them with the countries that clung to the old way, we can see what a good thing it was.

If the Reformers had lived up to their two great slogans, then the history of the religious world would have been different. Here are the two great slogans that were adopted by the Reformers:

THE UNIVERSAL PRIESTHOOD OF THE BELIEVER
THE BIBLE THE FAITH OF THE PROTESTANT

But these noble slogans have been left far behind because today various Protestant denominations are as priest-bound and creed-bound as the Catholic church which they were trying to reform.  Entire Article
 

Doing the First Works: The Mission of Christ and His Church

By Marc Smith, on April 7th, 2011 in Watchman Magazine

What Exactly IS the Mission of Christ and His Church? This seems like such an obvious question, yet there is so much confusion about such a simple and straight forward question. Is it possible to quickly walk through the clear steps listed in scripture, the book, chapter and verse, so to speak, to make easy understanding of this subject? I believe it is easy to do, if we give it even a few minutes of thought. Remember, every Christian is supposed to be able to describe this (1 Peter 3:15). Have you felt guilty because you never gave this even a little time to work this out?

Remove the guilt right now! Here is the solution: Let us attempt to clear the cobwebs of misunderstanding brought on by the practices of the religious world and focus right now only on what the word of God actually says. Go with me step by step so that you can follow what God has told us is the truth about this subject. About 15 minutes of your time is really all you need. If you want to avoid any confusion DO NOT Google this subject! Your New Testament is the only source you will need to establish the truth of God’s word in your understanding.  Entire Article

"By Faith...After"

by Walton Weaver

One of the examples of faith cited in Hebrews 11 is that of Israelites taking the city of Jericho. Verse 30 says, "By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days." Now that verse does not say simply that the walls of Jericho fell by faith. It says that the walls of Jericho fell AFTER they were encircled for seven days. The word "after" is significant.

It is true that it was "by faith" that the walls of Jericho fell. The verse plainly tells us that this was the case. But this is not all that the verse says. It also tells us WHEN the walls of Jericho fell by faith: AFTER they were encircled for seven days.  Entire Article
 

The Right Brand

Cled E. Wallace

Some of our modern broad-minders in religion can be and are quite snobbish if you disagree with their lack of doctrinal convictions. One of them, a member of a popular denomination, recently referred to some of us who still respect the simplicity of the gospel, as "an off-brand outfit.’ This may serve as a starting point for some worthwhile observations.

A brand can serve a useful purpose, if they are "on" they stand for true quality in the business world and bespeak the integrity of the producers of the goods which bear the brands. If they are "off' they are deceptive and disappointing and to use them is dishonest. The brand must be backed up by quality. It would be poor business or worse for a firm to brand instruments as "keen-kutter' when they are dull and cannot be sharpened so they will cut. A good article with a poor brand has a handicap to overcome. In the business world there is a constant search for quality goods and an appealing brand that does them justice. If the name of an individual or a firm is used as a brand it can represent nothing better than the integrity of the individual or the firm is able to put into the product.  Entire Article

Does Israel Have a Divine Right to Its Land?

Edward O. Bragwell, Sr.
The Reflector – July 2009

The present land of Israel was carved out for the Jews in 1948. Since then, Jews from around the world have migrated to that land. Several wars have been fought between Israel and its Arab neighbors over the years. The Israeli-Arab problem continues to dominate the politics of the Middle East until this present day. The region continues to be a powder keg capable of escalating into full-scale warfare at any time.

It is not our purpose in this article to delve into the politics of the region. Whether or not we should be allied with Israel in the present turmoil is beyond the scope of our discussion. Only we will say that the United States needs all the allies it can find against the global war on terror that it is presently engaged in. The Islamic extremists are not only bent on destroying Israel, but the entire Western way of life. They would like to impose their “Islamic law” upon every nation they can. From all indications, Israel is one of the staunchest allies that the United States has in this struggle.

The purpose of this article is to answer the question: Does modern Israel have a right to exist as a nation and possess its land by divine decree?   Entire Article

The Question of the Ages

by Homer Hailey

Many questions, important and perplexing, arise to confront us each day; but there is no question of such vital importance as that of Pilate when he asked, "What shall I do with Jesus, who is called Christ?" Now it is altogether possible that you have been putting off making a definite answer to that question, but as you put it off into the future somewhere, you are simply saying, "Away with him, away with him." The church of Christ is anxious to help you in every possible way to answer that question now--not tomorrow, but today: for upon your answer to the question depends your eternal destiny. In order to answer any question intelligently, one must take time to reflect upon it, consider it, and weigh carefully all points involved.

Let us look for a few moments at this question of Pilate, "What shall I do with Jesus, who is called Christ?" The question was asked by the governor as Jesus stood before him, the day the Saviour was put to death. Looking at the events which led up to the question: We find Jesus had eaten the last Passover with His disciples, after which He instituted His own memorial feast, the Lord's supper. From thence He went to the garden of Gethsemane, where, in prayer, He poured out His soul unto the Father, at which time He was strengthened by an angel for the ordeal before Him. From there He was: taken to Annas and Caiphas by the mob who came for him; and from thence to the Sanhedrin, where He was condemned to die. Entire Article

GOD - The Creator of Science

In the Beginning

"In the beginning GOD created the heavens and earth" Genesis 1:1. GOD not only created the heavens and the earth but He created the scientific basis for us to study His work. It is truly impossible for man to dispute the existence of GOD. Many have tried and failed. From the very beginning GOD provided significant evidence that our existence occurred by a greater means than a random accident in the universe.

Astronomy is a relatively new science although men have been searching the stars for thousands of years. Until the first telescope was used by Galileo in 1609, it was thought that there were only about a thousand stars in the sky. Ptolemy counted 1056, Tycho Brahe cataloged 777, and Johannes Kepler counted 1005. There are about 6000 stars which are visible to the naked eye if you count them from all locations on earth. The Word of GOD points out in Jeremiah 33:22, "As the host of heaven cannot be numbered, nor the sand of the sea measured, so will I multiply the descendants of David My servant and the Levites who minister to Me." And again in Genesis 22:17; "blessing I will bless you, and in multiplying I will multiply your descendants as the stars of the heaven and as the sand which is on the seashore; and your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies."

When Galileo first viewed our Milky Way galaxy through his 20 power telescope, he must have realized that there were perhaps millions upon millions of stars. Actually there are 1000 to 2000 billion stars in our galaxy alone. Perhaps mankind can begin to realize the absolute accuracy of GOD's Word. I suspect that many scientific men who lived before Galileo's discovery may have totally discounted these verses as being inaccurate. The same is true today as men try to dispute the accuracy of the Bible, only to be proved incorrect later as our knowledge of the sciences increases with time.  Entire Article

Have You Heard?

By Hiram Hutto

Have you heard about the group of Christians in this community that is not at all like the denominations so often encountered? Some have wondered about this difference and even remarked about it. This group is different in a number of ways but space permits us to consider only a few, and that but briefly.

1. Different, in attitude toward the Bible. These Christians believe the Bible to be the inspired, infallible, complete, authoritative word of God, and that the New Testament is the final expression of that word. This faith is based upon such scriptures as 2 Tim. 3: 16; 2 Pet. 1:3, 4, 21; Rev. 22:18, 19; Jn. 10:35. But, do not all Protestant denominations believe this? There was a time when they did, but now many of them will tell you unhesitatingly that they no longer do. Even those denominations which are known as "Fundamentalists" are guilty of dividing the commandments of Christ into "essential" and "non-essential" commands. This, in effect, nullifies the authority of the scriptures because it will let every man decide for himself what is essential and what is not. But not these Christians! They believe that man shall live "by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God" (Matt. 4:4). Is this what you believe?  Entire Article

Jesus Called Them "Sons of Thunder"

What would you expect from two brothers who were called ‘sons of thunder’?

“Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach, and to have power to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons: Simon, to whom He gave the name Peter; James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He gave the name Boanerges, that is, ‘Sons of Thunder’” (Mark 3:14-17).

The following incident might indicate why Jesus called them sons of thunder. “When the days were approaching for His ascension, He was determined to go to Jerusalem; and He sent messengers on ahead of Him, and they went and entered a village of the Samaritans to make arrangements for Him. But they did not receive Him, because He was traveling toward Jerusalem. When His disciples James and John saw this, they said, ‘Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?’ But He turned and rebuked them, and said, ‘You do not know what kind of spirit you are of; for the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.’ And they went on to another village” (Luke 9:51-56 NASV).

These sons of thunder, James and John, wanted to call down fire from heaven to destroy those people who had refused hospitality to Jesus.  Entire Article

The Uncompromised Gospel: Addressing Sin in the World, Part 2

Part two of an article by Joe Price, published November 1st, 1997 in Watchman Magazine.

The Uncompromised Gospel

Jesus never changed nor compromised His message for the sake of those who were unwilling to yield themselves to the will of God. On one occasion, Jesus’ disciples told Him that the Pharisees were offended by His teaching (Matthew 15:12). Jesus did not apologize for the truth He had taught. He did not apologize for having exposed the sin of sinners or for calling them back to the commandments of God. He did not change His message or His manner of preaching that message simply because sinners were offended by the truth He preached. Only the truth of God will convict sinners of their sin. All sinners, then and now, need to be humble before the truth of God, repent of their sins and obey all of God’s commands. Unless we teach all of God’s word to them, how shall they do this? How shall they call on the name of the Lord and be saved? (Romans 10:8-15)

We are being influenced by the techniques of men to compromise the call of the gospel. We are forgetting that the objective of the gospel is to save lost souls from their sins. Before the sinner can be saved from his sin, he must know what his sin is and be taught God’s remedy of forgiveness. Whenever we water down the message of the gospel for the sake of our own comfort or to spare the feelings of the sinner, we forfeit the gospel’s power to convict, convert and save the sinner. We show a lack of faith in the gospel. We compromise with the world. Sinners remain lost in their sins. We will have to answer for such neglect (2 Corinthians 5:10-11).  Entire Article

The Uncompromised Gospel: Addressing Sin in the World, Part 1

Part one of an article by Joe Price, published November 1st, 1997 in Watchman Magazine.

The Presence of Sin

Sin has been in the world since the day man and woman chose to disobey the word of God and eat the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:15-17; Romans 3:9-19, 23; 5:12-14). The father of lies, the devil, presented the woman with a lie against God’s word and God’s integrity (“you will not surely die… God knows in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil,” Genesis 3:4-5). Sin is the devil’s lie. The woman was deceived and the man followed her into sin. They believed and obeyed the lie, and died in their sin against God (Genesis 3:6; 2:16-17). The way sin enters man’s life has not changed. Sin has always been and shall continue to be a choice man makes to believe a lie and thus transgress God’s truth (by either doing what God forbids or by omitting what God commands, 1 John 3:4; 5:17; James 4:17). God, since the days of Adam, has repeatedly revealed to mankind the damaging and destructive nature and results of sin (cf. Genesis 6:1-7; Jonah 1:2; 3:1-4; Isaiah 59:1-2; Romans 1:18-32; 3:20).

The Remedy for Sin

In the midst of His judgments against sin, God has always revealed mercy to those who are faithful to Him (Genesis 6:8-22; Jonah 3:5-10; Romans 3:21-26). God has chosen to redeem sinners from their sins through the precious blood of His Son Jesus Christ (John 3:16; Romans 5:6-11; Ephesians 1:4-7). Man must choose to obey truth and live “in Christ” in order to obtain God’s gracious forgiveness of his sins (Ephesians 1:3; 2 Timothy 2:10; Galatians 3:26-27; Romans 6:1-6; 2 Corinthians 5:17). The truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ contains the remedy for sin (the devil’s lie). But God’s remedy for sin will not work upon those who believe and obey the lies of the devil. Romans 1:16 teaches that the gospel is the power of God unto salvation “for everyone who believes…” Therefore, we must not be ashamed of the gospel. We must love and obey the truth. With the gospel we must compel sinners to love truth more than the lie and the pleasures of sin (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12). Only then can the sinner be saved from his sins through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 4:17-24).  Entire Article

Quitting Church

by David Diestelkamp

The anticipatory words of Jesus, "I will build My church…" (Mt 16:18) have lost their luster with a lot of people today. Some in the denominational world are fed up, discouraged and distracted—and are quitting. Some are seeing their churches as man-made institutions and are tiring of leaders marketing to them as though they are consumers.

Others have come to expect churches to be more like non-profit organizations and less like religious groups—they easily become dissatisfied and move on, becoming serial quitters as they frequently shop for a group with more amenities.

Brethren are often tempted by this trend. The lure of greener grass, something new and exciting, different relationships, and less structure, lures them to quit assembling with God's people. And local churches feel the shrinking numbers and are tempted to respond by trying to meet people's perceived needs with unlawful activities and unscriptural teaching.

Christ's church faces an attack from people who want to be spiritual, but don't want anything to do with a church. They view quitting church as quitting organized religion, as quitting an outdated organization which is out of touch with modern life. They want to claim to believe in a perfect God without the hassle of having to associate with imperfect people (Christians). They wonder if Jesus had lived today if He would have said, "I will build my website," or "Just stay home and read my blog."  Entire Article

Salvation Outside the Church?  Impossible!

George W. Bailey, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

That Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world is a fact that is widely believed. Before Jesus was born, an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream, telling him of Mary's child, saying, "and thou shalt call his name Jesus, for he shall save his people from their sins." (Matt. 1:21)

In the midst of his ministry, Jesus himself declared, "The Son of man came to seek and to save that which was lost." (Lk. 19:10)

After the death and resurrection of Christ, John said, "And we have beheld and bear witness that the Father hath sent the Son to be the Savior of the world." (I John 4:14)

From these three statements we see that (1) before his coming, (2) during his ministry, and (3) after his leaving of the world, Jesus was declared to be the Savior of men.

Salvation Only In Christ

Christ being the Savior of the world, we know that salvation is in him. Man cannot be saved until his sins are forgiven. Sins are not forgiven until one has been redeemed by the blood of Christ; for we read, "the blood of Jesus his Son cleanseth us from all sin." (I John 1:7) Also Paul declares that we have "our redemption through his blood." (Eph. 1:7)  Entire Article

The Amazing Grace of God (Part 2)

(Continued from last issue:
Edward O. Bragwell, Sr.
The Reflector – January 2011)

The Basis of Our Salvation and Fellowship with God

What then is the basis of our salvation and fellowship with God? It is not faith alone nor is it grace alone, nor is it works alone. All are involved. It is true that we cannot work our way to heaven but it is also true that we cannot depend on the grace of God alone to get us there. Paul says that we have to “work out (our) own salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12). In this text, the working out is the same as obeying because he says “as you have always obeyed.”

When Paul said that we are saved “by grace ... through faith,” (Eph. 2:8) he is summarizing the basis of our salvation. It is God’s grace combined with man’s faith. Neither is passive but both are active toward its object. It is by God’s active grace toward man and man’s active faith toward God. It includes every act of the grace of God toward us and our every act of faith toward God.  Entire Article

Amazing Grace of God (Part 1)

Edward O. Bragwell, Sr.
The Reflector – January 2011

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound; That saved a wretch like me. I once was lost, but now am found, Was blind but now I see.

According to Wikipedia, “‘Amazing Grace’ is a Christian hymn written by English poet and clergyman John Newton (1725–1807), published in 1779. With a message that forgiveness and redemption are possible regardless of the sins people commit and that the soul can be delivered from despair through the mercy of God, ‘Amazing Grace’ is one of the most recognizable songs in the English-speaking world.”


For over two hundred years many have been comforted by the singing of Newton’s wonderful song. Each time I sing or hear it my eyes water and a chill goes down my spine.

For over two thousand years the story of God’s grace through Jesus Christ has been told in the New Testament revelation. It is a story of assurance and hope that needs to be preached to lost and despairing sinners as well as to remind those of us saved by it, that, as Paul said, “by the grace of God I am what I am.”  Entire Article

End of Days

By Mitch Rhymer

I was watching a program on the History channel about the Mayan prophecy of the destruction of the world and the end of time. This prophecy states that on December 21, 2012 the world will end in destruction. Hollywood has taken to this prophecy and made several movies about the end of our world. Yet it struck me as odd that if one were to simply read the Bible then the hysteria and confusion created by Hollywood and these prophecies would go away. I understand that one needs to see the Bible as the source of true knowledge. However, the Bible clearly states, "But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only" ( Matthew 24:36).

From this verse Christians need to understand a few things about the end of days or the end of the world or however one wants to describe it. When the Bible speaks of "that day and hour" it is a reference to the coming of the Son of Man back to the Earth to exercise judgment upon all man.

Matthew 24:37 teaches us that the return of Christ will be a destructive event. It alludes to the flood of the days of Noah. Going back to Genesis 6-8, the Bible student will carefully see that God intended to destroy not only man but everything he created ( Genesis 6:7). When Christ returns we should be careful to note that it will destructive to all the living things he created.  Entire Article

by Bubba Carrier

The first time I tried to march and play drums at the same time, I was terrible. When I concentrated on playing a steady beat, I marched out of step; when I focused on marching in line, I played off beat. After the first week, I went to the band director and told him that marching band was not for me and that he shouldn't expect me at any more of the rehearsals. I'll never forget what he said to me "Bubba, I didn't think you were a quitter." That cut through me like a knife.

We don't like to be called quitters, but we sure act like them. We try various hobbies and crafts for a while, and if we don't enjoy them as much as we originally thought we would, we toss them aside and move on to something else. How many have picked up the game of golf only to throw it back down a couple of weeks later? What about attempting to learn a musical instrument? Even those who make a substantial investment in their potential interest ‑ equipment, lessons, accessories ‑ give up after their initial failure.  Entire Article

by Gene Frost

Pilate asked the question that all who desire to avoid amenability to truth ask, and that is, "What is truth?" (John 18:38) Is it something so vague that it is elusive? Or is it without any firm basis, and, therefore, is whatever one chooses it to be? By its very definition, truth is discoverable. Truth is what is in "conformity to fact or actuality." - American Heritage Dictionary

Who knows the actuality of anything better than God? He alone knows the truth about all things. He created it all and is the Sovereign of the universe. (Gen. 1:1; Heb. 4:13) Whatever God says on any subject is true – "thy word is truth," John 17:17. Even though His revelation in the Holy Scriptures was not written as a text book on history, geography, science, et al., references in these areas are true, according to the reality of things.

The purpose of His revelation was not to instruct us in secular matters, but to reveal Himself and His will to man, to convict man of sin and offer deliverance from the guilt and eternal consequences thereof. His word is a guide to us in how to live righteously, soberly, and godly all the days of our life. (Tit. 2:11-12)  Entire Article

The Form of the New Testament

by Bob West

"Why isn't the New Testament written in legal form; i.e., broken down into encyclopedic categories and lists? Instead, it contains much historical, biographical and personal material. Yet we are asked to believe that this is God's law for us today. How can this be?"

The above paragraph sets forth a question which we believe is legitimate and needs to be carefully considered.

As a point of fact, some of the New Testament does have catalogs or lists of things both right and wrong (see Galatians 5; 1 Corinthians 6; Ephesians 4-6; Colossians 3-4; etc.). Therefore, the negative effect of the question is somewhat mitigated. Our remarks will be directed to the bulk of the New Testament - why it should indeed be considered as our law and standard of authority.  Entire Article

Five Great Bible Covenants

by David Padfield

In form, a covenant is an agreement between two people and involves promises on the part of each to the other. The concept of a covenant between God and His people is one of the central themes of the Bible. In the Biblical sense, a covenant implies much more than a contract or a simple agreement between two parties.

The word for "covenant" in the Old Testament also provides additional insight into the meaning of this important idea. It comes from a Hebrew root word that means "to cut." This explains the strange custom of two people passing through the cut bodies of slain animals after making an agreement (cf. Jer. 34:18). A ceremony such as this always accompanied the making of a covenant in the Old Testament. Sometimes those entering into a covenant shared a meal, such as when Laban and Jacob made their covenant (Gen. 31:54).  Entire Article

A Living, Transforming Hope

by Paul Earnhart

It is reported that several years ago researchers did a study to determine the effect hope has on those undergoing hardship. Two sets of laboratory rats were placed in separate tubs of water from which they could not escape unaided. The researchers left one set in the water and found that within an hour the exhausted rats all drowned.

The other rats were periodically lifted out of the water and then returned. These animals swam for over 24 hours. Why? Not because they were given rest, but because they had hope! They had come to believe that if they held out just a little longer, someone would reach down and rescue them. Without defending what seems to have been a rather cruel experiment, we simply observe that if this is the effect of hope on unthinking rodents, what must its power be in the lives of human beings?

There is nothing so critical to the success of gospel teaching as that it gives genuine hope to sincere hearers. Any supposed teaching of Christ which drives honest searching hearts to despair is a subversion of God's gracious purpose. "In the same way God, desiring even more to show to the heirs of the promise the unchangeableness of His purpose, interposed with an oath, in order that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we may have strong encouragement, we who have fled for refuge in laying hold of the hope set before us." Heb. 6:17-18.  Entire Article

The Day of the Lord

J. A. McNutt, Paragould, Arkansas [This article originally appeared in The Gospel Guardian, May 12, 1949.]

There have been many great and notable days in the history of this universe. It was a glorious day when God called Moses up on Mount Sinai and, while the lightning flashed and the voice of God shook the earth, gave him a code of laws to guide His people. Our own legal system is founded upon the Mosaic law, and the righteous principles of human government today may be traced to the law written by the finger of God upon the tables of stone.

It was a significant day when Jesus stood upon the Mount of Transfiguration in company with Moses and Elijah. We are told that his face did shine as the sun and his raiment was white as the light. It was on that day that Jehovah acknowledged Christ as his Son for the second time, and called upon all men to hear Jesus rather than Moses or Elijah.  Entire Article

Learning to Trust God

by Larry Rouse

What is the purpose of the body of Christ, the church of our Lord? Are we building in a wise way or are we pursuing things that are not in the Lord’s will? It is important to know the foundation that God gave His people so that we can be sure to build upon it. “According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ” (1 Cor 3:10-11).

We must build on the foundation of Jesus Christ. In the work of conversion and in the work of helping a Christian to grow, we must help others to build a personal faith in the Lord. To truly bring one to “see the unseen” and then to “know the Lord” is not an easy process. When you see the reality of the spiritual realm, then you will make decisions that will be very much “out of step” with this world. When Moses rejected the riches and esteem that was offered to him as a prince of Egypt so that he could “suffer affliction with the people of God,” he did this because he could “see Him who is invisible” (Heb 11:24-27). Are we helping people to “see the unseen” or are we making people comfortable in their worldliness?  Entire Article

Biblical Authority and the "Silence" of the Scriptures: Does It Allow or Disallow? (Part 2)

(By J.D. Tant; continued from last issue)

In the New Testament

"Going beyond” was something on Paul’s mind when he wrote to the church at Corinth. “Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively applied to myself and Apollos for your sakes, so that in us you may learn not to exceed what is written, so that no one of you will become arrogant in behalf of one against the other” (I Cor. 4:6). The ASV says they were “not to go beyond…” Paul referred to himself and Apollos as ones authorized to speak with authority. To “go beyond” is to enter the realm of silence, which was not to be done.

Colossians has Paul’s warning against certain practices that were not acceptable. "If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the world, why, as if you were living in the world, do you submit yourself to decrees, such as, ‘Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!’ (which all refer to things destined to perish with use) --in accordance with the commandments and teachings of men? These are matters which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-made religion and self-abasement and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value against fleshly indulgence” (Col. 2:20-23).   Entire Article

Biblical Authority and the "Silence" of the Scriptures: Does It Allow or Disallow?

by J.D. Tant

For hundreds of years, believers in the Bible have discussed the question of “the silence of the Scriptures.” Does silence indicate a lack of authority, and thus whatever is not specifically condemned is permissible? Or does silence mean there is no authority for whatever practice is under consideration, and therefore it is unscriptural?

These questions rose early in the church, as Tertullian (ca. 150-222) wrote of those who claimed that “the thing which is not forbidden is freely permitted.” Tertullian responded with, “I should rather say that what has not been freely allowed is forbidden.”  Entire Article

The Work God Gave the Local Church

by Steve Klein

God is the Master designer. We need only look at the physical universe to realize this. Psalm 19:1 tells us that, The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows His handiwork.'' The intricate and marvelous design of the creation shows the wisdom of God. “O LORD, how manifold are Your works! In wisdom You have made them all...'' (Psalm 104:24). Of course, God's wisdom can be seen in other things He has designed -- like the church. Ephesians 3:10 teaches that the “manifold wisdom of God'' is made known through the church.

God is the Creator and Designer of the local church, too. His wisdom is seen in the way the church is designed to work just as it is seen in the way the physical creation is designed to work. Men cannot improve upon God's designs. At our best, we learn to read the blueprints and follow them.  Entire Article

Sin Doesn't Work

The punishment for sin is sin." My mind bridled a bit upon first seeing Augustine's words in print. They seemed to be suggesting that all of sin's consequences were limited to this - worldly inconveniences. What about judgment? What about hell? I remonstrated. But second thoughts on the matter have left me feeling that the words are more true than false. The punishment for sin is built-in. No arbitrary add-on penalties are needed to enhance the total disaster that sin by its very nature produces.  Entire Article

Anti, Liberal or Simply Christian?

In all ages those who introduce error deny responsibility for the division that follows their conduct. Adam denied his responsibility, Eve denied hers... but God held them all accountable for their own actions (Gen. 3).

In more recent history, those who promoted musical instruments in worship did not accept the blame for the trouble that arose. Rather, they made every effort to shift the blame for division to those who opposed musical instruments in worship. Add to this the missionary societies, the orphan's homes,
the sponsoring church arrangement, the social gospel, etc. Every generation that opposed innovations was described as against music, against evangelism, against children, against cooperation, etc. Eventually, someone got the bright idea to lump all these contentious, erroneous, troublesome "brethren" into one ugly category. These terrible, ghastly people are even now called "Anti.”

"Anti" simply means against. Let me ask you this, are your for sin? Are you for innovation? Are you for changing the God authorized pattern for worship? Are you for changing the God authorized organization of the church? Are you for changing the God authorized work of the church? If you are not for all the above, you better watch out... Someone might consider you an "anti.”  Entire Article

Is This Suffering Wasted?

Among life's most baffling problems, there are times when none is more perplexing than that of suffering. "Why should this have come to me?" is so often asked. Then, after much anxiety and questioning one still does not have the answer to the "Why?"

From thence we turn to the question of "What?" If I cannot know "why," then what use shall I make of it? Surely, in a world of order, governed by a God of love, there must be some use which suffering may serve. It cannot be that God allows suffering with no purpose to be accomplished by it. Surely my pain, whether mental, or physical, or in the deep recesses of conscience, is not to be wasted.  Entire Article

IS ACTS 2:38 HERESY?

By Tommy Thornhill

“Jesse L. Sewell was born in Overton County, TN in 1818. He grew up in a Baptist community and became a Baptist preacher of some note in his native county. In the course of time, he learned the truth about Acts 2:38 (i.e. that baptism was in order to obtain remission of sins) from reading the New Testament. He began preaching this and it caused considerable confusion in the Baptist church. A Baptist preacher by the name of Jenkins Thompkins began to discuss Jesse Sewell's departure from Baptist doctrine, and this resulted in a discussion of the errors taught by the Baptists. “

“Finally, the Baptist association brought charges against Sewell. He was convicted and excluded from the Baptist church. The clerk asked how to make the record of the charges in the minutes of the association? The moderator told him to write "for teaching heresy." To this, Sewell replied that would be recording a falsehood and that they could not make a true record in any other way than by stating that he was excluded for preaching faith, repentance, and baptism, for the remission of sins, as taught in Acts 2:38. After some discussion, it was finally agreed that the record should be made as Sewell suggested, hence he was excluded from the Baptist church for preaching Acts 2:38. The minutes so record it.” - H. Leo Boles in "The Christian Journal."  Entire Article

Count Your Many Blessings - Then Weigh Them

by Tim Nichols

The old suggestion that you count your blessings in the midst of difficult times is a good one. Any realistic person who will sit down and begin to number his or her blessings will soon discover that they are many. In fact, one might discover that they are so numerous that it is virtually impossible to literally "name them one by one.” Even after the list is very long and we think we've made the last entry we realize that we've left something out. Job encountered this "problem" when he attempted to make the count while he was in the midst of great distress.

I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause: Which doeth great things and unsearchable; marvelous things without number: Who giveth rain upon the earth, and sendeth waters upon the fields: To set up on high those that be low; that those which mourn may be exalted to safety (Job 5:8-11). Which doeth great things past finding out; yea, and wonders without number (Job 9:10).

But some pessimist might want to argue that his or her list of problems is equally long. When he compiles his list of problems he is always able to think of one more item to add. You would have a difficult time convincing him that his blessings outnumber his difficulties and it would be a lengthy debate. For every blessing he could find a problem. Both lists would, like the energizer bunny, keep going and going. Simply counting the number of items on the two lists may not be enough to bring relief to some who are dedicated to the proposition that problems are things to nurture while blessings are things to minimize.  Entire Article

Babble in Bible Classes, Piffle and Pablum from Pulpits, Part II

There is a lot of piffle and pablum pouring forth from pulpits across this land in what we think of as conservative churches. "Sermons" consist of quotations from Calvinistic theologians, philosophers, and pop psychologists.

Personal motivation talks are not gospel sermons. Quotations from C. S. Lewis and Karl Menninger are not equal to quotations from Peter, John, and Paul. I am not saying it is always wrong to quote from men when they say something better than we can, but when such quotations dominate our preaching, or become the basis of our faith, something has gone wrong with our priority list.

Many young preachers today don't know how to refute false doctrine and have no interest in learning how. They don't see the refutation of false doctrine as part of the work of preaching the gospel. They shy away from controversial subjects. I sometimes refer to it as "slap Jane preaching." A mother took her little Johnny to school for his first day. Knowing that he was wont to get out of hand sometimes, she said to the teacher, "If Johnny misbehaves, slap Jane who sits next to him, and it will scare him and settle him down." Paul said, "Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them" (Eph. 5:11). Preachers who don't have the courage to preach the truth and expose error by name, need to find something else to do. If they curry the favor of men, they should not be servants of Christ (Gal. 1:10). They ought to be politicians. They need to spend more time studying the word of God and less time drinking at the fountainhead of denominationalism. Many are not looking for an opportunity to serve the Lord but a way to serve their own interests. As N.B. Hardeman used to say, "They want to sit down in a tub of butter." Some who have never been involved in the rough and tumble of contending with false teaching and teachers, criticize the fight we made in the 40's, 50's, and 60's over institutionalism and the sponsoring church concept. They criticize the way we went about it. Good friends, it is one thing to be in the thick of the battle and quite another to sit on the sidelines and criticize the way the soldiers hold their weapons. Their philosophy is, "Let error alone, let it die a natural death." How naive can we get? Error never dies a natural death, it has to be killed with the sword of the Spirit.  Entire Article

Babble in Bible Class, Piffle and Pablum from Pulpits, Part I

This article originally appeared in Guardian of Truth - November 16, 1995 and is presented here in two parts. This is the first:

by James P. Needham

"Are we the Bible believing and Bible preaching people we once were? Do we still carry that reputation in the community? Or do we have babble in our Bible classes and piffle and pablum from our pulpits?"

My father used to tell about a man in the community where he once lived: He was not a religious person, and was a member of no church in the community. He had several daughters. When they reached the age at which they became concerned about religion, they asked him where they should attend church. His advice? "Go to the church of Christ, they believe and preach the Bible." This has been the reputation of the Lord's church throughout the years, but one must ask, "Is this true now?" I challenge you, dear reader, to consider the question of whether this can be said of local church pulpits and Bible classes in our generation. I think we need to give serious consideration to what is taking place in the Lord's church in our time. Are we the Bible believing and Bible preaching people we once were? Do we still carry that reputation in the community? Do our actions merit it? Please consider what I say with a prayerful attitude.

Babble in Bible Classes

What is the average criterion of a Bible class teacher in local churches? We often put people up as teachers simply because they are members of the church without regard to their skill and experience as teachers, their Bible knowledge, or their faithfulness. Usually, in the lower classes, if one is a member of the church and is older than the students, he/she is qualified to be a Bible class teacher. In the upper classes, if a person can stand up before the class and mechanically go through some other person's prepared material, we consider him/her a qualified Bible class teacher. Some such teachers wouldn't be able to detect or refute error if it occurred in the material they teach.  Entire Article

Is the Bible Really from God? (Part II)

This article is continued from last issue. It is from a tract written by Jon Galloway of Scotland, thus some spellings that may be unfamiliar to us in the USA…

FULFILLED PROPHECIES

The Bible contains many prophecies. By "prophecy" we are not referring to vague guesses, generalisations, or predictions made on casual connections. The prophecies that the Bible contains are specific predictions of specific events that were to occur. The majority of the prophecies contained in the Bible can be categorised as either historical prophecies or Messianic prophecies ("Messianic" prophecies are those prophecies which refer to Jesus, the Messiah). Let us examine some of these.

Therefore I will make Samaria a heap of rubble, a place for planting vineyards. I will pour her stones into the valley, and lay bare her foundations. (Micah 1:6)

Micah prophesied that Samaria was to be utterly destroyed to the extent that her foundations would be uncovered and the site would become a place to plant vineyards. This is what happened historically and is still the condition there today. Micah made a prophecy and it was fulfilled.  Entire Article

Is the Bible Really from God? (Part I)

Where did the Bible come from? Is it a product of the inspiration of God or is it just a good book written by men? Is it a book in which we can place our confidence? These are questions that face modern man. It is a fact that we have the Bible. The problem that concerns mankind is that if the Bible is the word of God, then we need to examine it to find what God wants us to do.

What exactly does it mean that the Bible is "inspired"? We often use this term very loosely today. We speak of a good lecturer as being an "inspired" speaker. We refer to writings as "inspired.” This, though, is not what we are speaking of when we speak of the Bible being inspired. The Greek word, which is translated "inspired,” is theopneustus, which literally means "God-breathed.” When the Bible is referred to as being "inspired,” the meaning is that it is more than just another good book. When referred to as being inspired, the meaning is that the Bible is the word of God, given by God to mankind.

The Bible claims to be inspired.

All Scripture is God-breathed, and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

(2 Timothy 3:16-17)  Entire Article

Does Baptism Wash Away Past Unlawful Marriages?

by H. E. Phillips


"Does baptism wash away past unlawful marriages?" That is the subject assigned to me for this special issue. I first heard of this idea many years ago, but not much was said about it until the last few years. Some men have always done what they wanted to do, regardless of what the Lord said. Any practice that transgresses God's word and involves a lot of people will somehow be "justified" by those who want to continue in it. A complicated research program will begin amassing "evidence" to prove that the Bible does not mean what it obviously teaches. Thus, justification is found to do that which God's word does not allow.

The Nature of Marriage

"Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled" (Heb. 13:4). In the beginning God instituted marriage and regulated it by his word. He did not plan for marriage to be dissolved except by death. Marriage is a physical, fleshly union; it is not a spiritual union. They are no more twain but one flesh (Matt. 19:6). Death ends all marriages (Rom. 7:3). Baptism has nothing to do with our marriage, but it is essential to our spiritual bond in Christ.

Adultery and fornication are sinful just as lying, stealing, murder and idolatry are sinful. These sins are equally applicable to those in Christ and those in the world. Jesus taught that divorce and remarriage results in committing adultery. If a man puts away his wife for fornication, she is guilty of sin (adultery). If he puts her away for any other cause and marries another, he commits adultery; and he causes her to commit adultery. Any man who marries that one who is put away, commits adultery, and there is no exception clause (Matt. 5:32; 19:9; Mk. 10:11, 12; Lk. 16:18). Any twist or perversion of Scripture that contradicts, modifies or invalidates these plain statements of Jesus is false doctrine.   Entire Article

Garage Sale Grace and Flea Market Salvation

By Allan Turner

The obvious question is, “What in the world do garage sales and flea markets have to do with grace?” The obvious answer ought to be, “Absolutely nothing!” But such is not the case. Many people today are in search of a bargain even in the religious realm.

The overwhelming success of garage sales and flea markets in today's society demonstrates that many are interested in a bargain. Likewise, in the spiritual realm, many seem to approach the subject of grace with the same bargain hunting frame of mind. They want to obtain the benefits of grace, but they want to do so as cheaply as possible. In truth, their question is: “How little must I give before I can possess it?” 

Grace Is Free but Not Cheap

 Entire Article

The Family Together

by Dee Bowman


Family. There's something warm and inviting about the word. It floods the mind with thoughts of home and hearth, of fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, aunts, uncles, grandma and grandpa. It conjures memories — memories of togetherness, of commonality, of all being in one place at the same time. It calls to mind picnics, ball games, holidays spent with loved ones. Family. It just says something special. And the thing it most especially says is "together."

Together. There is no such thing as family without together. No matter how the word is used — whether in regard to biology, or mathematics, linguistics, or physics — family always suggests something held together by a common bond.   Entire Article

How to Lose Peace of Mind

by Johnny Ramsey

Jesus Christ came into this world as "the Prince of Peace" (Isa. 9:6). Men of good will can have peace on earth because of Him, as the angels sang (Luke 2:14). With the "gospel of peace" (Rom. 10:15) the Lord Jesus grants us peace that actually surpasses our
understanding (Phil. 4:7). Through the blood shed on the Cross, we have our access to the removal of chaos and frenzy in our life-style: "For it was the good pleasure of the Father that in him should all the fulness dwell; and through him to reconcile all things unto himself, having made peace through the blood of his cross" (Col. 1:19-20). Anything that hinders these rich blessings would be a crime against heaven. A great hymn proclaims:  Entire Article

The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire

by R. J. Evans

Edward Gibbon authored a six-volume series of books between 1776 and 1788. In this series he covers the deteriorating conditions of the Roman Empire from 180 A.D. to 1590 A.D. He points to five major factors to which he attributed the fall of the Empire. Let’s list the five reasons for Rome’s fall, and then make some comments and observations as applied to America today:

1. The rapid increase of divorce; the undermining of the dignity and sanctity of the home, which is the basis of human society.

Right now in America, one out of every two marriages (50%) are ending in divorce. It is becoming more and more common to talk to individuals who have been divorced three or four times. Then we have a large number of our population who do not bother to get married, they just live together—in the sin of fornication. (Col. 3:5-7) And if that is not bad enough, the sin of homosexuality is gaining acceptance, and “same-sex marriages” are becoming legal in some states. (See Rom. 1:26-28) But just because some sin or vice is legally right, that does not mean that it is morally or biblically right! “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter” (Isa. 5:20).  Entire Article

 

The New Testament Church and the Churches of Men

by Jefferson D. Tant

The New Testament church is distinctly different than the church found in our world today. A close examination reveals the churches created by men do not fit the pattern as revealed in the New Testament. If we are seeking to find the true pattern of the church as it was in the first century, we must look within the pages of God's word for that pattern. The following observations are made in regard to the many differences in the church as found in God's word and churches practicing today who claim to be following the word of God.  Entire Article

In Search of Noah's Ark

by Berlin Chumbley

In the December, 1996, issue of Popular Mechanics, in an article entitled "Ancient Mysteries of the Bible," author Mike Filon, examines some of the Bible's most astounding events, in light of modem scientific methods. He suggests that, "Technology and a better understanding of natural processes may explain how these seemingly impossible events occurred."

The article discusses whether or not events such as, the burning bush, Moses parting the Red Sea, Lot's wife turning to salt, the raising of Lazarus, and various other "astounding events," could be explained by scientific methods. But it was Noah and the ark which drew top billing in his article.  Entire Article

To Tell the Truth

by Gene Frost


"But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death." (Rev 21:8)

All liars shall have their part in the lake of fire!

The Christian is under a speech imperative: to tell the truth. "Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor" (Eph. 4:25). This commandment is no trivial matter, it reflects the nature of the Creator Himself: it is "impossible for God to lie." (Heb. 6:18; Tit. 1:2) His "word is truth." (John 17:17) Therefore "lying lips are an abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight." (Prov. 12:22) Yes, God hates lies. (Prov. 6:16‑17, 19:5, 9)

Lying is of the devil: "there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it." (John 8:44)  Entire Article

Hermeneutics and Silence

by Frank Jamerson

The proper attitude toward the silence of God has become a problem with many in interpreting the Scripture. Some believe that “silence gives consent,” while others believe that authority gives consent. Which attitude does the Bible teach?

The very nature of revelation answers this question. Paul wrote, “For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God” (1 Cor. 2:11). He went on to say the things of God have been revealed “not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual” (v. 13). Just as a man cannot know what pleases me from silence, he cannot know what pleases God from silence. If we could have known it from silence, He could have remained silent! But He spoke His will, because we could not otherwise know it.  Entire Article

Baptism: What It Will and Will Not Do

By John R. Gibson

Having died for the sins of the world and risen from the dead, Jesus instructed His apostles to take His story to all people (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15, 16). He further stated that those who heard this gospel message, believed it, and were willing to be His disciples were to be baptized. While many today downplay its importance, the book of Acts shows that in apostolic preaching baptism was considered a vital part of the message, and conversion was not complete until one had submitted to being baptized in water. (See Acts 2:38-41; 8:12, 13, 35-38; 9:17, 18; 10:47, 48; 16:14, 15, 30-34; 18:8; 22:16). That baptism was important in New Testament times cannot be denied, but what was it intended to accomplish? If you were to decide to be baptized today, what would it mean in your life? What would this act of obedience do for you? First, we ask that you consider carefully some things baptism will not do and then some things it can and will do.  Entire Article

The Question of the Ages

by Homer Hailey

Many questions, important and perplexing, arise to confront us each day; but there is no question of such vital importance as that of Pilate when he asked, "What shall I do with Jesus, who is called Christ?" Now it is altogether possible that you have been putting off making a definite answer to that question, but as you put it off into the future somewhere, you are simply saying, "Away with him, away with him." The church of Christ is anxious to help you in every possible way to answer that question now--not tomorrow, but today: for upon your answer to the question depends your eternal destiny. In order to answer any question intelligently, one must take time to reflect upon it, consider it, and weigh carefully all points involved.

Entire Article

Creation Manifests the Glory of God

The Bible holds man responsible for belief in that it affirms that the creation is sufficient evidence to warrant theistic conclusions (that God exists). Paul wrote: "For the invisible things of him since the creation of the world are clearly seen, being perceived through the things that are made, even his everlasting power and divinity; that they may be without excuse" (Romans 1:20). Paul states that the creation itself is evidence for belief. The creation was caused. It has design. It therefore points to a Designer.

The Psalmist wrote: "Thou hast set thy glory upon the heavens" (Psalm 8:1). "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth his handiwork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge" (Psalm 19:1, 2). "And the heavens shall declare his righteousness” (Psalm 50:6; cf. 139:14). Paul added: "He (God) left not himself without witness, in that he did good and gave you from heaven rains and fruitful seasons" (Acts 14:17). The Bible affirms that man should be able to examine the things of the world and deduct by his examination of these things that a Creator exists.  Entire Article

Trembling at God's Word

by Walton Weaver

A lack of respect for God and his word is what is lacking in our world today. But as we all know, this has always been the problem with man. Even those who have some measure of respect for God do not have enough to make a difference in their lives.

Others do honor the word of God by living in such a way as to show the respect they have for God and his word.

Isaiah says that God will look favorably upon the one “who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and who trembles at my word” (Isa. 66:2). The “contrite spirit” that is mentioned is the key that unlocks the meaning of what Isaiah means by the word “tremble” in the next phrase. Just to be afraid of God or his word is not enough. To tremble at God’s word is to be so affected by it as to be brought to repentance. Let’s begin by developing this point a little more.  Entire Article

Are You Ready?

By Mark E. Larson

"Be dressed in readiness, and keep your lamps alight. And be like men who are waiting for their master when he returns from the wedding feast, so that they may immediately open the door to him when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those slaves whom the master shall find on the alert when he comes; truly I say to you, that he will gird himself to serve, and have them recline at the table, and will come up and wait on them. Whether he comes in the second watch, or even in the third, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves. And be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have allowed his house to be broken into. You too, be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect” (Luke 12:35-40, NASB).

It is amazing to me how much more ready the state of Virginia was for the latest major snow storm than the previous one in December that brought close to two feet of snow in some places. Instead of the delay of snowplows to clear the roads and the failure of residents to stock up on food and snow-shovels, everyone seemed to be much more ready for the latest artic blast. Could it be that they learned their lesson?  Entire Article

Phariseeism

by Frank Jamerson


The Pharisees were probably condemned more severely than any other group of people by the Lord during His life on earth. The label of "Pharisee" has come to us as an extremely uncomplimentary label. Often it is misused by false teachers and those in sympathy with them. Let us notice some of the characteristics in Pharisees that Jesus condemned.

They were critical of Jesus for teaching sinners, but would not listen to Him themselves. The great chapter on God's attitude toward the lost and what ours should be, Luke 15, was spoken to Pharisees who murmured because Jesus associated with sinners. Their attitude was demonstrated in the elder son who stayed home, but said to his father basically what the Pharisees had said to Jesus, "This man receiveth sinners and eateth with them." They objected to Jesus receiving sinners, "but the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected for themselves the counsel of God, being not baptized of him (John)" (Lk. 7:30). The Pharisaical attitude is shown by those who criticize faithful teachers for teaching the truth, while refusing to listen or teach it themselves.  Entire Article

O, Ye of Little Faith - The Storm

by Lucas Ward

The apostles were reprimanded several times by Jesus for a lack of faith. Yet these were men who left their livelihoods to follow Jesus. They faced ridicule for following Jesus. Toward the end they faced great personal danger in order to follow Jesus. As Peter says, "We have left all and followed you" (Mark 10:28).

So, these were men who by our standards would seem to have great faith, but their lack of faith constantly disappointed the Lord. So let's look at the instances that the Lord said “0 ye of little faith “ and discover what the apostles lacked, then see how we can use that to increase our own faith. In this first article, we'll consider the apostles in the storm.  Entire Article

Enemies of the Cross of Christ

by John T. Overbey

Jesus Christ is the central figure of world history—every event that antedates his advent points forward to HIM; and every event that has transpired subsequent to his advent points backward to HIM. The cross of Christ is the hope of the world—without Christ's death on the cross, the world would still be groping its way in darkness; therefore, "the word of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us who are saved it is the power of God." (1 Cor. 1:18) Every bull, every goat that was offered as a burnt offering under the law of Moses was merely a "shadow" of the supreme sacrifice of the body of Christ upon the cross. (See Heb. 10:1-18)

The importance of the cross of Christ is seen in the fact that Paul, when coming into the city of Corinth, determined not to know anything among them save Jesus Christ and him crucified. (1 Cor. 2:2) And while others did glory in the flesh, Paul said, "far be it from me to glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world hath been crucified unto me, and I unto the world." (Gal. 6:14)

But in spite of the greatness and importance of the cross of Christ, there were those in Paul's day who were enemies—"For many walk, of whom I told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end is perdition, whose god is the belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things." (Phil. 3:18, 19)  Entire Article

Discipline Begins with Your Mind

By Bubba Garner

A disciple is just that—one who is disciplined, one who has brought his thoughts, his behavior, and his emotions under the control of Christ. He is a dedicated and devoted follower, willing to submit his will to His will and to be trained and instructed in His righteousness.

The disciplined mind is where it all begins. The key to taming the tongue, managing the temper, and mastering what comes out the body is the cautious selection of what goes in the mind (Mark 7:21-23). One of the reasons Christians get caught up in worldliness and immorality is because we meditate on the worldly and immoral and don’t discriminate against that which defiles the mind and heart.

Several years ago, the NAACP came out with the slogan “the mind is a terrible thing to waste,” and such a saying reminds us that there is a lot of waste out there on which the mind can be spent and squandered. Solomon instructed his son to “watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life” (Prov. 4:23). To watch means “to keep” or to discipline and involves carefully shielding and protecting. How ironic that we live in a health-conscious age when the same people who watch what they eat, examine the food labels, and take the recommended vitamins to care for their bodies allow all kinds of pollutants and impurities to contaminate their minds.  Entire Article

I Believe In God

The story is told of a person who was asked by a friend whether he really believed in God. He replied: "I don't just believe in Him, I love Him!" Such an answer takes the question of God's existence out of the realm of an intellectual possibility and places it on a personal level. Implied in this question is another question: "Why do you believe in God?" Let me take a few minutes to tell you about the God I believe in and why I believe in Him.


I Believe in the God of Creation

When you open the Bible, in the first verse you find God: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1). Not only is He there, but He is powerful - He creates the world out of absolutely nothing! The rest of chapter 1 tells us about God's creative power as He created light (vv 2-3), an expanse (v 6), dry land and vegetation (vv 9-11), the sun, moon and stars (vv 14-15), the creatures who live in the sea and those that fly (v 20), the animals and creatures who live on land (v 24), and finally, humans (vv 26-27). The God I believe in is a powerful God, powerful enough to create everything out of nothing (see Hebrews 11:1-3).

Not only do we see a God of infinite power in creation, we also see a God of order and perfection. God did not have to make any prototypes before arriving at the completed object - from the beginning it was good. The statement "and God saw that it was good" is found over and over again in Genesis 1 (see verses 10, 12, 18, 21, 25). It is one thing to have power - but it is quite another thing to have a power that makes everything good. This is the God we discover through creation.  Entire Article

How the Church Came to Antioch

Men of Cyprus and Cyrene, (members of the church scattered by persecution) came to Antioch and "spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus." “A great number believed, and turned unto the Lord."

The church in Jerusalem sent Barnabas to Antioch, "Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord." Through his work, "much people was added unto the Lord."

Later, Paul came to work with Barnabas, and "they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch."

In these passages (Acts 11:19-26) we learn (1) the word of the Lord was preached, (2) people believed, (3) and turned unto the Lord; (4) they cleaved unto the Lord, and (5) others were added unto the Lord. And these people were called "the church" "disciples" and "Christians." The discerning person sees in these verses how the church came to Antioch, and how it comes to any other place on earth.  Entire Article

Does the Holy Spirit Call a Sinner to Salvation?
By Mark McCrary

Do you believe in Holy Spirit conviction? That the Holy Spirit comes upon a person personally and convicts that person of their sin? Are you waiting for such an event as a personal invitation from God? Perhaps more importantly, should you be waiting for such an event? Does the Holy Spirit call a sinner to salvation?

The answer is an unquestionable “Yes!” the Holy Spirit calls sinners to salvation. Perhaps the real question is, “How does the Holy Spirit call sinners to salvation?” The manner, we will see as we examine scripture, is not some overwhelming burden of guilt put upon us in a miraculous way, but rather the overwhelming burden of guilt put upon us through the message of the Bible delivered to us by the Holy Spirit.  Entire Article

Living Together - Right or Wrong?
Chuck Northrop

In this time of “live in” boyfriends and girlfriends, it is no wonder that many are confused about marriage. The world has long tried to destroy marriage and justify itself in its evil deeds while Christianity has uplifted marriage to the lofty plain that it deserves. The world has cried that marriage will be defeated and that it will not survive but like all things created and sanctioned by God, marriage is here to stay and is a viable part of society.

Nevertheless, some have chosen to live contrary to God’s law concerning marriage and have advocated that marriage is no longer needed, being outdated. Or by some perverse rationale, they reason: “You wouldn’t buy a pair of shoes without trying them on. So, don’t get married without first trying out your mate.” It is often the case that those who cry such foolishness are the very ones who cry that they do not want to be treated like animals or inanimate objects. Yet, this is the very thing they are advocating. Dear reader, we are not talking about a pair of shoes, we are talking about humanity. Let us never be guilty of treating one we are considering to marry as if they are a pair of shoes!

In 1983, Newsweek reported that only 16% of college students considered it harmful “for a man and woman to live together before marriage” while 61% said it would be “helpful.” With such views, questions concerning “living together” must be answered. Entire Article

We Are Simply Christians
by Dale Smelser

Many are growing disenchanted with present religious forms which originated in the middle ages and have become meaningless. There is displeasure with denominational structures and dogma. Some, because of such views, have even decided that Christianity is not relevant today. We believe they have made that decision because they are not sufficiently acquainted with the Scriptures to be able to distinguish between the relevant gospel of Christ and what men over the centuries have attempted to add to it.

If some of these things have troubled you and you have felt a yearning to return to the simple, uncomplicated religion of Christ, stripping away all the nonessential elements of religion and simply abiding by the truths of Christ, truths which transform the soul and bind it to God, let us suggest that it can and has been done.  Entire Article

Infants and Sin
 

"Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven." (Matt. 18:3).

This writer's first efforts at debating denominational error was with a Lutheran preacher. The issues were total hereditary depravity and infant baptism. We expected our opponent to argue that little children were only guilty of inborn or inherited sin — not personal sins of their own. So, we were surprised, indeed, when he said that infants were guilty of actual transgressions of their own. He was very insistent that infants needed baptism to remove both kinds of sins—inherited and actual.

He was the first one that we had heard attempt to specify acts of sin that infants and small children commit. I remember his using temper tantrums as one example. We insisted that if those little fellows were sinners, then Jesus would be saying that, "unless you are converted and become as little sinners, you cannot enter the kingdom of heaven." If not, why not?  Entire Article

Last Will and Testament
 

A feature of common law has come down to us from as early as the Hebrew nation through the Grecian and Roman empires. A man may make a statement concerning the disposition of his estate after death, but such a statement is not of force until there has been the death of him who made it. While living he has the right to do as he wills with his estate, no matter what his statement may have said. This statement is called his last will and testament. Even though it is so called, he may make another, and if it can be shown that there is a later one the former is superseded. This is described as characteristic of what is commonly referred to as the New Testament.

"For where a testament is, there must of necessity be the death of him that made it. For a testament is of force where there hath been death: for it doth never avail while he that made it liveth. "(Hebrews 9:16-17).

While he was upon the earth Jesus had the power to forgive sins. Since the New Testament had not been made effective by his death, he could make any conditions he chose, or could make forgiveness without conditions, without the necessity of abiding by the conditions of his will which would later be effective.   Entire Article

Depression: Cause and Cure
 

“Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression; but a good word makes it glad” (Prov. 12:25).

According to one recent source, about one in five American adults — that’s over 46 million people — suffer some form of chronic depression, ranging from prolonged sadness to psychosis. Some of these unhappy people are undoubtedly victims of biological imbalances that require medical treatment.

However, in many cases the root problem must be sought in the hearts of the victims. Their depression is simply a state of mind they bring upon themselves by how they choose to think. This proverb points to anxiety as the chief culprit in creating mental gloominess. The Hebrew word means “fear, dread, anxious care.” When a person allows his mind to be consumed with worry over his problems — or potential problems — he is sure to become depressed.  Entire Article