Campus Bible Ministry

It is God’s Plan – For Your Health!

             God’s plans are always perfect!  However, it seems that so many are wanting to either argue with his plan or ‘tweak’ it just a little.  They must not think God is capable of providing for us just what we need – but I do!

            Our health is important.  When we get sick we remember how important it is.  For this cause we should take care of ourselves, and according to God’s plan.  Following all of what God tells us will bring better health to us.  And, as we are considering our health let us never forget that which is most important – our spiritual health.  He has provided for that as well.  Our spiritual health is greatly improved when we assemble as God has commanded.  Yes, even though many do not like that word, it is a command to assemble  (Heb. 10:25).  This assembly is a time to worship God and encourage one another.  In both acts our health is assisted.  When we worship God we are reminded of our place, and as we encourage others we are encouraged as well.

            Participate in the plan of God, and assemble with the saints.  Remember, this does not mean gathering with any who claim to be the church, and can even boast many “good” works.  We are to assemble with those who truly are God’s saints and are here to serve all.  Be with us in the assembly!

                                                            Greg Weston

A Slow Movement

             If you have ever sat in a boat in a ‘still’ lake you will understand the title.  The boat moves very slowly, at times imperceptively.  For a time you may have been in the position you desired, then you realize that you are in a much less desirable location.  The same is true spiritually.  “Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away” (Heb 2:1 NKJ). 

            In order to give heed, we must hear.  One of the ‘acts’ of worship in the church is hearing the word of God proclaimed [see 1 Cor. 14].  We are to be anxious and careful hearers.  What we hear from the will of God we need to apply.  As we apply the truths of God we guard against drifting away.

            So many of the problems with apostasy began as just a ‘little’ problem.   Justification followed the error, and apostasy was not far away.  Let us avoid this drift toward apostasy at all times.  Study carefully, and be present each time to hear and consider more of the will of God.

                                                                                     Greg Weston

Bulletin.  May 9, 2010

Parenting:  A Tough But Blessed Task

             Children are a heritage from the Lord!  (Ps. 127:3).  To have children is a great blessing, but it is also a grave and tough responsibility.  Too often parents do not think about all the responsibilities they are assuming before the child comes.  At the birth of the child there is great happiness, and then after a time comes weariness and concern.  Those of us who are ‘empty nesters’ know that the weariness will pass but the concern never does.

            Each one should know that babies do come with a manual.  God has given us all we need to take care of children.  He gave, through scripture, the kind of life to live as a model for our children.  And, he also gave through scripture the instruction to discipline our children, for their good and not to satisfy our anger.   Read Ephesians 6:4 again and again!

            Too many parents concern themselves over what they can provide for their children physically but do not consider the spiritual.  Always remember, in 100 years it is the spiritual which is of great value – not the physical!  Where will they spend eternity?  The choice is theirs, but you are a tremendous influence on them. 

            Look at your own life yet again.  Choose to live for the Lord, faithful and true.  Give the pattern of godliness to your children.  Teach your children, by example and in word, to lay up treasure in heaven rather than on earth  (Matt. 6:19-21)!

                                                                        Greg Weston

How to Hear a Sermon

             With open hearts.  Each person who sits in the pews should have the attitude of “Speak, Lord, your servant hears” like Samuel of old (1 Sam. 3:10).  Our hearts and minds should be open to the truth of God, with an eagerness to apply his wisdom to our lives.

            With open Bibles.  The preacher is the mouthpiece, the Bible contains the very words of God.  Every person should have their Bible open to read for themselves what God says.  And, with the right spirit, each one should also check all things the preacher says by the Bible.  Listen to the truth presented, regardless of the ability of the preacher to deliver it, and believe!

            With open eyes.  Too frequently we do not see ourselves clearly enough.  When the will of God is presented, and we feel reproof, we often try to excuse ourselves.  Or, we may just refuse to see ourselves as others see us – especially the Lord.  When we hear a sermon we need to make application to ourselves first and foremost.  We can help others, but we must first make certain we are living right  (Matt. 7:1-5).

            The sermon is as important as any other part of our assembly.  It is important because it is the time when God speaks to us through his word.  Preachers are human, and some are not exciting in presentation.  But, if they are preaching God’s truth the truth is eternally beneficial.  Listen carefully, for your eternity depends on how you hear.

                                                                                                            Greg Weston

Bulletin, May 2, 2010

What if Our Children Did It?

             It can be hard to see our own weaknesses.  But God has given us the task of self-evaluation.  This evaluation is to be a comparison of our life to the word of God.  Read James 1:21-27 to see the emphasis of measuring your life by his law.

            While it is true that we can be even more ‘blind’ when it comes to the lives of our kids, we can use our love for them to help guide our own lives.  When you think about what you are doing, how you are speaking and the direction your life is going – ask yourself if you would be pleased with your kids doing the same!  There are times when we would become angry with our kids for doing the same things we are doing.  When that is the case, repent of your wayward path and return to the righteous path the Lord has given!  Few would object to godly living!  And the Lord certainly does not object but rewards the righteous (cf. Heb. 5:9).

            Remember, you are the example your children are most likely to follow.  If they follow you will they have the hope of heaven or the dread of hell?

                                                                        Greg Weston

Submission

             Paul said we are servants to whom we obey.  We either serve sin or we serve righteousness (Rom. 6:16-18).  This means we either serve Satan or we serve Jesus.   While we choose whom we will serve, we are all under the authority of Jesus whether we acknowledge it or not (1 Pet. 3:22; Eph. 1:22).  As Christians we have the blessedness of having Jesus as our Savior and Head.  We submit to him in all things (Eph. 5:22-24).

            In addition, we are to subject ourselves to the ordinances [laws] of men – our civil authority (Rom. 13:1-5).  Servants are to submit to their masters (Titus 2:9) and children are to submit to their parents just as Jesus did to Mary and Joseph (Eph. 6:1-3; Luke 2:51).  These passages are easily understood, even if they are difficult to apply at times.

            We also note that wives are to submit [be in subjection] to their husbands (Eph. 5:22; Col. 3:18; 1 Pet. 3:1-5;  Tit. 2:5).  Yes, the husband has authority over the wife.  This is not an abusive authority but is authority nonetheless.  If a woman does not want to submit to a man, she should not marry. 

            Submission requires placing one’s own will and desires under another’s.  It can be difficult, but it is demanded in many relationships in life.  Paul said that we are to submit to one another (Eph. 5:21). 

                                                                         Greg Weston

The Head

             Headship is difficult!  To lead is a challenge in many ways and  those who lead are often ‘alone’ in leadership.  Fortunately we have the perfect example of leadership in Jesus. 

            The word ‘head’ is not used of human leaders of the church.  Jesus is our only head (Eph. 1:22, 23).  Certainly there are those in the church who, when they meet the qualifications, are called upon to lead.  They are called shepherds [pastors], bishops [overseers] and elders [presbyters].   The very words shepherd and bishop demand both responsibility and leadership (see Acts 20:17, 28; 1 Tim. 3:1-7).  They lead under the authority of Jesus who is the head!

            In the home the husband is the head (Eph. 5:22ff).  We often begin to soften the idea of headship lest we offend any person, especially the wife of the husband.  However, this hurts the marital relationship.  The husband is the head and the wife is to submit to him.  If a man does not want the responsibilities of leadership, he should not marry.  The Lord does not give him a choice, but insists that he take responsibility as the head of the home.  This headship is with love for his wife (Eph. 5:25).  His leading is done with understanding, knowing that the wife is the weaker vessel (1 Pet. 3:6, 7).  As the head he does not need to look at human counselors to do well.  He simply needs to follow the pattern given by God in scripture and he will be a good leader in the home.  Step up men, it is always time to lead!

            The husband also has a head, who is Christ (1 Cor. 11:1ff).  He will answer to the Lord for his stewardship in the home.  If he does not dwell with his wife according to knowledge, God will not hear his prayer (1 Pet. 3:7).  But when he does well he is a shining light to the world and a blessing to his wife and children.  Gentlemen, fear not but lead with power and in the pattern of the Lord!

                                                                          Greg Weston

Golden Rule Living

                “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matt. 7:12 NKJ).

                Every relationship is improved by a determined effort to do for them what you would have others do for you.  Yes, this can be challenging.  But it is always good.  They may not respond in the same fashion, but when you do what is right you are pleasing to the Lord and a blessing to others.

                Every marriage is blessed by applying the golden rule.  Every business is benefited by the application of the golden rule.   Remember to follow this principle of life every day, and at all times.  Your life and the lives you touch will be blessed – even when they do not know it!

Bulletin.  April 25, 2010

That Your Faith Should Be In The Power of God

             One problem in the church at Corinth was preacheritis, the following of a specific preacher.  Paul rebuked this action and reminded them that he preached Christ so that their faith should stand in the power of God rather than the wisdom of men (1 Cor. 2:5).  Men will err and disappoint, but God does neither!  The preacher is to proclaim the truth of God to men in a manner to give God the glory and not draw attention to himself. 

            In our world, like Paul’s, there will be challenges with both men and women.   If our trust is in God rather than men we will be able to handle the disappointments which men and women cause much more easily.  We will not throw away our faith when man sins, but will remember the faithfulness and love of God.  We can take our refuge in him and look to him always.  The failures of others will sting, but they will not hinder our service to the Lord.

            Always remember the truth about God and the truths that God has given to all through the scriptures.  Read Hebrews 11 and walk in the same faith as the saints of old!

                                                                        Greg Weston

Change in Character

             To become a child of God one must repent (Acts 2:38).  This repentance is a change of mind which results in changes of action.  These internal and external changes are changes in character.  A bad man can become good, and a good man can become evil.   Let each of us desire the change for good.

            There is a confidence in humanity from the Biblical record.  Although the evil is pointed out in the Bible,  the ability of one to repent and become a good person is central to the Biblical narrative.  Let us always seek to do good, both in self and others.

            The ability to change our character tells us that we have power over our bodies.  We have freedom to choose.  Choose to serve God!

“I Want You To Build”

            An employer walked into his business and told his employee, “I want you to build!”  The employer then turned and walked out.  All you know about this scenario is there is one employer, one employee and one task.  What was the employee to build?  Was the employee to build a house, a garage, a specific skill or his vocabulary?   You cannot tell from the details given.

            An employer walked into his business and told his employee, “I want you to build this fort for my kids!”  He then gave him the blueprints for the fort and its location.  Now, what was the employee to build?

            Paul told the saints in Colossae to “pluck”!  He used the word psallo which means ‘to pluck’.  This word is translated ‘make melody’.  In his instructions he also specified what to pluck, “make melody in your hearts to the Lord”.  The ‘plucking’ is not a stringed instrument nor chicken feathers.  The saints were to pluck or make melody in their hearts to the Lord.  This verse does not refer to any mechanical instrument of music but to the instrument of the heart!

                                                                        Greg Weston

Some of the Benefits of Members

             “There is one alone, without companion: he has neither son nor brother. Yet there is no end to all his labors, nor is his eye satisfied with riches. But he never asks, "For whom do I toil and deprive myself of good?" This also is vanity and a grave misfortune.  Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.  For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.  Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone?  Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken”  (Eccl 4:8-12 NKJ).

            Christians have the benefit described by Solomon.  We have a wealth of assistance available for us.  It may be that some do not allow themselves the strength within this body because of their own pride or for fear of bothering others, or perhaps another reason.  Do not ignore the benefits you have with your brothers and sisters.  Allow them the blessing of serving you and the Lord.  Remember, we are told to bear one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2) and are to provide support and aid for one another (1 Cor. 12:12ff).   Lean on brothers and sisters who will help you in your walk with God!

Bulletin.  April 11, 2010

            We live in a busy society.  Even those who do not have the demands of a job fill their time with many activities.  It seems to be a matter of pride for each one to declare how busy they are.  Time management is a great skill, and a needed skill in our lives.

            Take the time to sit and evaluate how you spend your time.  Place each activity in order of priority.  Then be bold and end those commitments which are not necessary and are causing your schedule to be difficult.  And, be honest to confess [at least to yourself] how much time you spend watching television, reading for enjoyment and using the computer for unnecessary activities [and, yes, that includes social networking like Facebook and My Space!].

            Redeem your time to spend it wisely (Eph. 5:15, 16).  How much time do you spend in the church assembly (see Hebrews 10:24, 25)?  Are you attending Bible classes?  Are you taking time to encourage and serve brothers and sisters through the week?  How much time to you spend teaching others or helping guide them into the truth?  These are crucial activities during the week.  Manage your time now and enjoy eternal blessings later!

                                                                        Greg Weston

            You may say, “I have no counselor!”  Who do you speak with about life’s challenges?  We all know people who will listen to everyone who comes along, or to the stranger who may ‘inform’ them of some advantage with a sense of great confidence and authority.  Many of us listen to, and act upon, the advice of those who have an appearance of knowledge but we really do not know the true source of their counsel.  You have the responsibility to prove the counsel received before acting upon it.

            Many decisions in life have an influence on one’s spiritual life.  Certainly if one is asking what the Lord teaches on a matter they need to read the Bible.  If help is needed they need to seek counsel from one who knows the Bible and gives the Biblical references which prove their counsel.  Many religious leaders have a “shell” of Bible knowledge but simply give their own opinion rather than scripture truth.  Look carefully in the local congregation for the ‘wise among you’ and seek their counsel.

            Too many times people will depend upon those within their family or even occupation for general counsel.  Family and business ties appear to be more valuable to them than Biblical truth.  Do not be that person, but seek the will of the Lord in everything.  If family members have spiritual maturity you have a double blessing, but simple family relationships do not guarantee good advice!                         

                                                                        Greg Weston

Conclusions from Matthew 19:1-10

1.       Marriage was instituted by God, and is regulated by God.

2.       God intends that one man and one woman be married for life.

3.       Moses permitted divorce in the Old Covenant because of the hardness of their heart.

4.       But, Jesus says that one who divorces their spouse and marries another commits adultery.  The only exception involves sexual immorality [fornication], in which case only the person not guilty of fornication is permitted to marry without being guilty of adultery.

             News reports are filled with stories which blame others for the circumstances in which people find themselves.  A young woman was blaming tanning beds for her skin cancer, even after acknowledging that her parents bought her a personal tanning bed which she used often.  Kids and parents blame school lunch programs for meals which are not healthy.  The list goes on!

            One solution for these and other problems is individual responsibility.  We have the responsibility to limit our own activities, and to provide for ourselves or our children.  Sack lunches can solve school lunch concerns.  Responsible use of tanning beds and time in the sun can prevent skin cancer.

            Isn’t it time we quit blaming others for our bad decisions?  I should exercise more and eat less candy.  However, that does not place blame on Dell computers, Lazy Boy recliners or the candy makers of the world!  Each of us can learn healthy living habits and incorporate them in our lives.  Let’s take more responsibility and quit blaming others for our lack of self-control!

                                                                        Greg Weston

             The law given on Sinai is known for the ten commandments which are foundational to that law.   Those commands include several ‘Thou shalt not’ regulations.   The New Testament carries similar prohibitions even when those three words are not used in the sentence.

            One can hardly contemplate any other idea than ‘thou shalt not’ when we read Paul’s instructions to the Colossians.  In the third chapter he says, “Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth” and then lists many actions which are to be put to death.  We should understand each one as being a ‘thou shalt not’ action.  When we do them we are departing from the perfect plan of God.

            The list of actions Paul specified to the Colossians is illuminating for all today, and in every generation.  Fornication, evil desire and covetousness are forbidden for the faithful Christian.  But, he went on and included  anger, wrath, blasphemy, filthy language and lying to one another in the list of forbidden deeds. 

            Think seriously about your actions, and the heart which brings forth those actions.  Remember to ‘set your mind on things above’ as Paul encouraged these saints, and put to death those things of the world.  These actions will bring much glory to God!

                                                                        Greg Weston

             The problem with marriage can be summed up in two words:  Husband, Wife.  Interestingly, they are also the blessing of marriage!  Whether you are a blessing or a problem to a marriage depends upon your expectations and your actions.  Too many have expectations based upon romance novels, television shows or movies.  Remember that each of these sources is manipulated by the writers.  It is not real life.  If they form the basis of marriage for you, then you will be both disappointed and a disappointment. 

            The perfect pattern for marriage is found in scripture.  Read Colossians 3:18, 19 for a basic pattern for marriage.  Understand the terms as they are used in scripture rather than our modern society.  Recognize the different roles God has given to both the wife and the husband, and that there is great latitude in specific actions within these terms.  If the husband and the wife follow this pattern both will be blessed by and a blessing to their marriage.

            Live a godly life and be the blessing God intends you to be for your partner.

                                                               Greg Weston

       Paul urges each disciple to “seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God” (Col. 3:1). 

      The apostles of Jesus saw him ascend into heaven (Acts 1:11), and Peter declared that Jesus is sitting at the right hand of God.  This statement emphasizes the authority of Jesus but it also reminds us that this was the plan of God.  David had declared by prophecy many generations before Jesus’ birth that Jesus would sit at the right hand of God.  Peter quoted David’s prophecy, noting its fulfillment   (Psalm 110:1;  Acts 2:33-35).

      The heart of each disciple is comforted by this fact.  We know that Jesus is our ‘high priest’ who can understand our condition (Heb. 4:12-16).  We know that Jesus has power over all principalities and powers (1 Pet. 3:20ff).  And, we are assured that he will also come again to judge all humanity and give his disciples a home in heaven (Matt. 25:31-41).  Yes, we should seek those things which are above,

 where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.”

       We rise from the waters of baptism to newness of life (Rom. 6:3, 4).  At this moment we have become new creatures in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17).  Our relationship with God has changed from aliens to children, and our transformation into the image of his Son has begun (Rom. 8:29).  This transformation is a life long change of attitude and action. 

      In Paul’s letter to the Colossians he spoke of this transformation when he taught them, and teaches us, to put to death specific actions and attitudes and put on the new man (Col. 3:5-16).  Like many other passages in the New Testament, these words give us a pattern for life.  We cannot engage in certain activities and must include others.  We must reject such actions as fornication [sexual immorality], evil desire and covetousness while we grow in love, forgiveness of others and meekness.  These are some of the specifics Paul has given us to follow in our lives.  Read Colossians three and carefully consider your life in comparison with this pattern of life.  Remember, this is not the totality of God’s pattern but is a good place to read and apply to our lives.

      These specifics reflect Paul’s encouragement to the Roman saints to not be conformed to this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.  This renewal comes from the knowledge of the will of God for our lives.  To continue your transformation read the scriptures carefully and regularly.  Be honest with yourself about how you are following the commands [instructions] of the Lord.  Your faithfulness will please the Lord and encourage others to be faithful, as the Lord intends!

       When a person questions God’s forgiveness of the Christian they are questioning God.   The apostle John, inspired by the Holy Spirit teaches us that every child of God will commit sin and that God will forgive the person who repents of the sins they have committed.  Read 1 John 1 very carefully.

      We do have a responsibility to ‘walk in the light’.  This is one of many descriptions of the Christian life.  The light comes from the inspired revelation of God, the Bible.  The New Testament is the covenant between God and all humanity today.  To walk in the light is to learn the specifics of this testament and follow them to the best of our ability.

      It is true that we will make mistakes.  Peter denied Jesus three times, but repented of that sin and became a great leader in the early church.  This does not mean each leader must commit a horrible sin and repent, it simply reminds us that forgiveness is available from God.  Peter made additional mistakes in life, such as dividing the church in Antioch.  Paul rebuked Peter for his actions and the division was solved (Gal. 2:10ff).  This reminds us of John’s statement that if one says he does not sin he lies!  We do err.  We sin.

      The difference between the faithful Christian and the one who has left the Lord and gone back to the world is the heart and action of each one.  When we recognize our sin and repent of it, we are assured that when we pray for forgiveness we will be forgiven (1 John 1:9; Acts 8:22).    This is a great blessing God has promised to his children. 

      Do not worry about your spiritual state.  Be faithful in all things and when you commit sin, turn and ask for forgiveness.  Be confident that God has forgiven and continue walking in the light as he is the light (1 John 1:6, 7).  Our faithful walk gives praise to his name and light to the world!

      It seems that one disaster after another has struck somewhere in the world, which has brought a call for relief.  And, relief indeed is needed.  We should demonstrate our compassion and meet the need for food, water, shelter, clothing, medical needs, and other needs each one has.  However, let us not be so busy taking care of the physical that we overlook the spiritual.  Spiritual health is the greatest need.

      John’s encouragement to Gaius is always encouraging as well as intriguing.  John wrote, “Beloved, I pray that your may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers” (3 John 2).  What a commentary on the spiritual condition of Gaius.

      We have the truth which the world needs, to be in true health like Gaius.  This truth is in scripture, which was given by God.  Let us teach so others may be in spiritual health as diligently if not more so than meeting their physical needs.

       It is hard to purchase a Bible today which is not filled with ‘notes’ from various religious writers.  Despite the difficulty, I urge each one to find a good Bible for study.  This Bible should have no notes in it at all.  If you can find this you have found the best!

      Simple cross references and noted variant readings are not the notes I warn against, unless the cross references are copious and biased toward a specific teaching.  Many simple ‘reference’ Bibles are profitable.  But, the best would be a Bible with the variant readings in the footnotes at the most.  Variant readings are alternate words for the text found in the original language and among the major manuscripts which support the text.  It is important to note that these ‘variant readings’ do not effect any major Biblical teaching.   The Biblical teaching on any subject does not depend on a variant reading, but is based upon clear, and often multiple, passages which address the teaching.

      A chief benefit of having a Bible without notes from religious writers is that you are able to study without the ‘interference’ of another.  Certainly some notes can be profitable.  However, certain other notes can result on people losing their souls.  Do not depend on the notes but simply upon the Biblical text.  Our faith does not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the wisdom God has given through Jesus Christ and his apostles!

      As you study the Biblical text, take good personal notes for future reference.  Remember to consider which covenant you are reading from and the background of each statement.  Search for the meaning of the passage rather than what you want the passage to say.  These are good points which will assist you in righteous living!

Which Translation?  Since the Bible was not written in English we must use translations.  When selecting a translation find those seeking accurate translation based on the words rather than the thoughts.  Two I recommend are the American Standard Version (1901) and the New King James Bible.

       In recent years the abbreviation above has become very popular.  You can see it written in prominent places and some wear a ‘bracelet’ with this abbreviation.  The purpose is to keep in mind the kind of life we are supposed to live for the Lord.  In all things, “What would Jesus do?”  What he would do is sufficient for each of us.

      What did Jesus do?  The answer to this question will help answer the one above.  Jesus did follow the law of God carefully.  In fact, Jesus never violated the law of God.  He was sinless (Heb. 4:15; 2 Cor. 5:21).  Since the law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul (Ps. 19:7), Jesus knew that it was all sufficient.  He followed that law perfectly.

      So, what would Jesus do?  He would keep the law he has given - perfectly.  Jesus lived under the law of Moses (Gal. 4:3-4), but when he died he mediated a new law [covenant] for all humanity (Heb. 9:15).  He described to the apostles that the law they would, and did receive was the law of the Father given to him which he gave to them through the Holy Spirit’s guidance (Jn. 16:13-15).  The apostles wrote it down for all to read and understand.  Today Jesus would study and know this law, and he would keep it perfectly in every point.  So, to follow him we need to read and study this law and keep it in every point – as much as possible.  We will not be sinless, but we will grow in righteousness as we follow him (Jms. 1:21-25;  2 Pet. 1:5-11).

      Too many use emotions and their own wisdom to try to figure out “What would Jesus do?”  We do not need to follow our emotions and our own thinking.  We need to follow the instructions of the Lord.  For in those instructions we have all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3).  We have all things, so we lack nothing.  Are you doing as Jesus did?

       The word of God provides guidance for our lives.  It is the perfect law of liberty (Jms. 1:25).  It will make us perfect [complete] in the sight of the Lord (2 Tim. 3:16, 17).  Our Sunday evening assembly and our Wednesday Bible class focus on the word of the Lord – as does our Sunday morning class and assembly.

      It is good for each one, for every one, to be here for all these classes and assemblies.  You will grow in your knowledge.  By that knowledge you will be able to overcome the temptations which come to you each day.  As you are with us you are building up the body with your encouragement of others.

      There is no better activity than Bible study!  There is no better company than the saints!  So why do so many make the choice for different activities and company?  If you are not physically ill, please add these activities to your schedule.

       The Lord commanded the Sabbath, and expected each one to observe it.  When the Israelites found a man picking up sticks on the Sabbath the Lord told them to take him outside the camp and the whole congregation stoned him to death (Num. 15:32-36).  The violation of the Sabbath law was a capital offense.  It was rebellion against God.

      The Law of Moses included the observance of the Sabbath.  God had not given the Sabbath command to his people before the law was given to Israel through Moses.  The first command for Sabbath observance was after Israel’s departure from Egypt and before their arrival at Sinai (Exod. 16).  It was a part of the Mosaic law, just as the Passover which had been commanded while they were still in Egypt was a part of the Mosaic law.  All who lived under that law were required to keep the Sabbath.  Jesus lived under the law of Moses, and he kept the Sabbath perfectly (cf. Gal. 4:1-4).

      The sin of the Sabbath is different today than under the law of Moses.  Under Moses’ law it was a sin when one violated the Sabbath restrictions.  Today it is sin to bind the Sabbath on others.  Paul said we are no longer to be judged by Sabbaths (Col. 2:16). 

      When Jesus went to the cross he fulfilled the law of Moses.  The law was a schoolmaster [tutor] to bring ‘us’ to Christ, but when Jesus died he fulfilled that purpose.  The law was fulfilled  (Luke 24:44) and is no longer binding.  Even those first ten commandments of the law ended at the cross.  Paul argued that we are not under the law but are joined to Christ (Rom. 7:1-7).  The old law is ‘dead’ to us that we can be joined to the ‘new’.  That old law which is dead included the command, “Thou shalt not covet” which is one of the ten.  If it is part of the law which is ‘dead’ to us, so is the Sabbath law.  And, the Sabbath law is the only one of the ten which is not included in the New Covenant.

      The seventh day, the Sabbath, was the law in Jesus’ day but it is not part of his law for Paul’s day.  Nor is it his law for his saints today.  We assemble on the first day (1 Cor. 16:1, 2)!

      There were many who were crucified by the Romans, but only one was crucified in order to provide forgiveness for the sins of the world.  Only Jesus could provide that blessing for the world (see Matt. 26:26-28).

      Jesus suffered the death of the cross so that each of us can have the hope of heaven.  When we are forgiven of our sins we have no condemnation (Rom. 8:1).  With no condemnation we are righteous in the sight of God and are blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ (Eph. 1:3).  One of those blessings is receiving the crown of life, and an eternal home with the Lord in comfort (2 Tim. 4:7, 8;  John 14:1-3).

      These unique aspects of the crucifixion of Jesus are magnified by the fact of the resurrection.  Jesus’ death and resurrection are subjects of prophecy and when he fulfilled those prophecies he was declared to be the Son of God with power (Rom. 1:4).

       Many folks live completely oblivious to God’s commands.  They think that it doesn’t matter how one worships, if one worships, or where one worships God, just as long as he/she is sincere.  However, the Bible says that God is a jealous God (Exodus 20:5), and all who wish to please Him must hold in reverence what He says.  Just a casual scan of the Bible will reveal that indifference to things sacred has brought tragedy to many sincere people.

1.     It made a difference in things offered.  Cain’s sacrifice was rejected but Abel’s was accepted (Genesis 4).  Why?  “Faith cometh by hearing… the word of God” (Romans 10:17), and since Abel’s offering was “by faith” (Hebrews 11:4), we know that God had spoken to them about making an offering.  But Cain disrespected God’s word and worshipped in vain.  The same thing can happen today (Matthew 15:9); that’s why we must worship God only as He directs (John 4:24).  No matter how sincere we may be, obedience to God is required (2 John 9; 1 Samuel 15:22).  It makes a difference!

2.    It made a difference if Moses struck or spoke.  God’s command to Moses was understandable.  But Moses struck the rock instead of speaking to it as God had said (Numbers 20).  This may seem like a little thing, but we must remember, “It is not in man that walketh to direct his own steps”  (Jeremiah 10:23).  It may seem all right to practice things unauthorized in worship, but these things could lead to our spiritual death, for “there is a way that seemeth right unto man, but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12).  It makes a difference!

3.      It made a difference to Jesus about which church.  He lived in a time and place where there were many religious groups.  In the face of criticism, he said: “In vain do they worship me teaching for doctrine the commandments of men” (Matthew 15:9).  He could have taken a more politically correct view by saying, “One church is as good as another,” or “There are saved people in all faiths.”  But He pushed politics aside and said: “Upon this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell [hades, G.W.] shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18).  Just think:  if “my car” or “my house” means these things belong to me, then when Christ said “my church” it must mean it belongs to Him.  He purchased it with His own blood (Acts 20:28;  Ephesians 5:25-27);  He is its head (Ephesians 1:22-23), it is His bride and wears His name (Romans 7; Ephesians 5).

      So it makes a difference!  No matter where one looks in the Bible, he cannot find a single example where failure to worship God as He authorizes was acceptable to Him.  The first things a person must do to be Christ’s disciples to deny himself (Luke 9:23).  This cannot be done by following the paths of least resistance.  Search the Scriptures daily to make sure (Acts 17:11; 2 Timothy 2:15).  Why?  Because it really does make a difference!

                                     From:  Garden Valley Church of Christ

                                                Roseburg, Oregon

      The search for wisdom and knowledge has been a focus of humanity since time began.  Great names of history include those who are known for their wisdom and insight.  While those of past ages produced some amazing fruit, their work was neither complete nor perfect.

      But, when one considers the whole of life there is only one in whom all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden – Jesus.  He is the only man who had all the answers.  This is because he was not just man, but was God in the flesh.  In him all the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily (see Col. 2:3, 9).  He has all the answers because he is the source of all knowledge.

      The whole of man includes the spiritual, in fact it focuses on the spiritual.  For the answers to all of life’s important questions, turn to the Lord.  Trust him, learn from him, and live for him.

       The term ‘trinity’ does not appear in scripture, but the concept does.  Paul said of Jesus, “For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” (Col. 2:9).  This phrase is understood best in light of three in the Godhead rather than some people’s view of one God who presents himself in three personalities.

      In his letter to the Colossians Paul emphasized the three of the Godhead:  Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  The Father and Son are referenced throughout the epistle.  Of the Son, Jesus the Christ, Paul says he created all things.  The description of Jesus is the description of deity.  The Father and Son share the same essence, and the Son is the image of the invisible God (1:15).  All these details are given to Paul by revelation, through inspiration of the Holy Spirit (John 16:8-15). 

      Other passages also emphasize the Godhead, the three persons which are all three deity.  At his baptism Jesus had come up from the water when the Spirit descended upon him from heaven and the Father spoke from heaven (Matt. 3:15-17).  There are three distinct ‘persons’ of the Godhead.  They are, however, perfectly joined together in purpose and action.  The unity of the Godhead we cannot fully understand from human experience but know it through revelation given by God. 

      It is important to note that while there are three of the Godhead, there are no more than three.  There is never a hint in scripture of a ‘fourth’.  Of other entities described as divine by men, Paul said they are nothing (1 Cor. 8:4-6). 

      The three are seen in the creation week, when God said “let us make man in our image” (Gen. 1:26).  In the New Testament we have a full explanation of the three, and in the final chapter of the last book of the New Testament collection the three of the Godhead are mentioned (Rev. 22:16-21). 

      Any who deny this teaching are not of God.  Do not accept them as faithful and have no participation with them.  John said to not even give them greeting (2 John 10, 11). 

      Also consider:  Matt. 28:19; Eph. 4:4; 2 Cor. 13:12.

       “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him” (Col. 2:6).   This is an exceedingly important encouragement to the Colossians, and one which we also need to follow.

      In contrast to how they received Christ Jesus was the danger of others deceiving them (2:4) or cheating them (2:8) in leading them away from Christ Jesus.  The New Testament is filled with warnings of false teachers.  Consider Paul’s encouragement to Timothy concerning those who would follow the doctrines of demons (1 Tim. 4:1-5).  The prevention of departing from God’s instruction to humanity was the preaching of the word of God (2 Tim. 4:1-4).  This prevention reminds us again of the need to walk in the path of the New Testament.

      The exhortation to walk in Christ Jesus as you have received him is not valid for some today.  If a person ‘received’ Christ Jesus in the sense of believing certain things about Jesus which are not according to scripture – they cannot continue in that path and be pleasing to the Lord.  For when we follow that which is different than God’s pattern of righteousness we are not pleasing to the Lord.  And, we are not walking in Christ Jesus as the Colossians received him!

      This brings our focus back to the simple and singular authority of the New Testament.  This volume is easy to understand in nearly every point.  Let us read it and understand.  When the points are more challenging, let us grow in our understanding.  But, when a teaching or practice has no authorization from scripture – we must leave it alone.  It is a teaching of man and not of God.

       Paul told Timothy, “But you, O man of God, flee these things.”  The things Timothy was to flee was the love of money and the distress it brings.  What was he to do?  “Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness”  (1 Tim. 6:11).  Yes, the godly do flee from wickedness and follow diligently those things which are godly.

      At the same time, the man of God is to resist.  “Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).  What a great thought to know that Satan will flee from us.  We know what is right, and when we do it we are resisting the devil.  Know that when you resist he will flee.

      These two points remind us of the power God has given to us.  He has given us the scriptures so we can know him and his paths, and in that knowledge we can stand for him and resist the devil.  What a great blessing indeed! 

       Jesus said, “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 16:19).  This promise does not apply to any person alive today.  It was given to Peter, and he exercised that power in preaching to the Jews and then to the Gentiles.  It was through Peter that both Jews and Gentiles entered the kingdom.  Few have erred in this point and thought they had the keys of the kingdom!

      This same principle applies to other promises of Jesus.  He told the apostles to wait in Jerusalem till they were clothed with power from on high (Luke 24:46).  That power was the outpouring, or baptism of the Holy Spirit which they received on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2).    Every statement must be understood in its context. 

      Jesus ascended and gave gifts to men (Eph. 4:8).  Who received these gifts?  Those who were apostle, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers received the gifts (Eph. 4:11).  The gifts were the unique gifts given by the Spirit, as described to the Corinthians (1 Cor. 12).  Paul also said the gifts would cease (1 Cor. 13:10).  In the context of Paul’s discussion we can know that the spiritual gifts ceased when the purpose for these gifts were fulfilled.  Their purpose was to reveal the will of God to humanity, so when it was delivered the gifts ceased.  That revelation was complete in the first century.  Jude said the faith “was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3).

      Does this mean that we are all the same today?  No, we still have different abilities.  Those abilities, however, are not given directly by the Holy Spirit but are seen in our interests and developed skills.  We are different in abilities naturally.  And, we should use all our abilities in the kingdom of Christ for the glory of God.  While we might say they are given by God, that gift is indirect and not the direct gift of the Spirit of God.

      The same power of God for salvation in the first century is present in the 21^st.  It is the gospel.  The difference is, today it is perfectly written and preserved, whereas before it was perfectly spoken as it was being written.  Use your abilities and skills to fulfill the work of God – living faithfully and spreading his word.

       There appear to be cycles of time when people speak of the poor and our responsibility to them.  Often times these statements appear to come from one’s emotion, or perhaps from current popular idea of giving all our abundance to the poor.  But, all things should be in balance.

      We should assist the poor.  James wrote about our giving to the poor in the second chapter of his letter.  The New Testament church was gracious in giving.  The events in the second and fourth chapter of Acts demonstrates their generosity, and the words of Paul to the Corinthians emphasizes assisting the poor (2 Cor. 8, 9).  These passages focus on assisting brethren, while Paul’s comments to the Galatians places help to brethren first and all others after brothers and sisters in Christ have the necessary provisions (Gal. 6:10).

      It is as important to remember that we also have a responsibility to discern to whom we are to help.  Do not overlook Paul’s command to refuse assistance to those who will not work (2 Thess. 3:10).  If we give to all without discretion we disobey the Lord.  This is also important when we understand that resources are limited, and if we give all we have to those outside we will not be able to assist those whom we are instructed to assist specifically.  This is not an excuse to hoard, but a reason to be discerning.  This is a challenge!

      A third point is that every Christians has the responsibility to work and care for themselves, their family and others (Eph. 4:28; 1 Tim. 5:8).  There are temporary needs, but each faithful brother or sister will work toward self-sufficiency and the ability to assist others.

      Let us view the poor with balance.  We have responsibility to help, but we must help as the Lord instructs.  Be generous and be wise.  Assist the needy and please the Lord!

       The Colossian church was encouraged in their spiritual lives.  Paul reminded them of the great blessings we have received through Jesus, and taught them again of the preeminence of Jesus in all things.  As he encouraged them he reminded them that they were reconciled to God, through Jesus, if they continued in the faith.

      There were specific teachings and practices taught in the New Testament.  Paul emphasized to the Colossian Christians that the blessings they were enjoying were theirs as long as they continued in the things given by God.  They were to be grounded and steadfast in the faith (1:23).  The faith is obviously not a personal belief but the teaching given by God.  Jude described it as the faith once for all delivered (Jude 3).

      This is true for us also.  We are to continue in the truths set forth in the New Testament.  Walk in the path of the Lord!

       “And you, being in time past alienated and enemies in your mind in your evil works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and without blemish and unreproveable before him: if so be that ye continue in the faith, grounded and stedfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel which ye heard, which was preached in all creation under heaven; whereof I Paul was made a minister”

(Col 1:21-23 ASV).

      The redeeming gospel of Jesus Christ was preached in all creation under heaven even in the first century.  Some have suggested this is an hyperbole signifying the complete spread of Christianity in their world while others have taken it literally.  In either case, Paul was speaking about the rapid and widespread proclamation of the gospel of Christ as he penned the letter to the Colossians in about 61/62 A.D.  This was a significant action, and one which is to be repeated every generation.  But each succeeding generation has one advantage, the gospel has already been spread through the world so we begin from multiple locations.

      As we spread the gospel let us remember too that this gospel cannot be changed.  We are to be “grounded and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel.”   Jesus has provided us with the perfect and complete revelation.  Nothing else is needed, and no changes are permitted.  Peter quoted Moses and warned that those who do not hearken to the words of Jesus will be utterly destroyed (Acts 3:23, 24).  It is this gospel we must hold to and proclaim faithfully.

      When this gospel is spread souls around the world will be reconciled to God.  No longer enemies of God, each one is presented to God holy and without blemish.  We are washed from our sins by the blood of Jesus, through our obedience and at the point of baptism (Col. 1:14; Acts 22:16).

      Do all you can to proclaim this soul saving gospel to all the world.  Souls are lost in sin and need salvation!  We are God’s fellow-workers for their salvation.  Let us preach his truth!

       One evening David was on the roof and saw a beautiful woman bathing.  He sent for this woman and committed adultery with her.  Then, when she was pregnant with his child he tried to cover his sin by bringing her husband, his faithful soldier, back from the battle so he could be with his wife.  When he would not go in to his wife David had him killed.  These events are told in 2 Samuel 11.  The prophet Nathan rebuked David for his actions as recorded in 2 Samuel 12. 

      I heard it said recently that all things happen as they are supposed to happen.  There is a purpose in it, and we just must find the purpose.  Review 1 Samuel 11 and 12.  Although there are lessons we learn from these texts, what purpose did these actions have for David, Bathsheba, and particularly Uriah?  Lust, adultery, deception, conspiracy and murder are sins.  Should we ascribe these actions with some divinely approved purpose?  No!

      God had given guidance to David, and all Israel, which should have prevented these actions.  David sinned!  These points show us that even when God gives us the guidance needed in life, we have to follow that guide.  When we forget the teachings of the Lord or violate them by our actions, it is not an activity directed by the Lord.  Those actions are sinful.  We must repent as David did (see Psalm 51).

      As we evaluate our lives, let us remember the divine help we have in the pages of the Bible.  In every decision, let us look for guidance using the Lord’s pattern rather than our own desires.  And let us acknowledge our errors in judgment.  Too many hide behind an idea of God working in every action in their life, they just have to be patient and see what it is.  When we choose sin, God then waits for us to return.  He longs for our return, as with the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15).    This is his action.

            We have the responsibility of making decisions.   At times we suffer because of our decision or the decision of another.  When it is due to the errors of others, we can learn patience.  When it is ours, we should humbly return to the Lord.  Follow God’s truth and all will be well in the end.

       Paul encouraged the Colossian Christians to seek eternal things rather than physical.  He said, “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.  Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.  For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.  When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory (Col 3:1-4 NKJ).  Note that each of these statements is based on one being raised with Christ.  Every spiritual blessing is based on this action.

      How is an individual raised with Christ?  A simple reading of Colossians answers the question.  Paul said they were “buried with him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead” (Col. 2:12).  Compare Romans 6:1-4 with this passage.  It is true that we receive the spiritual blessings after we have been raised, and that blessing includes our salvation.

      After being ‘raised’ we are to seek the things which are above.  All are to seek those things, but the Christian has a claim to them because our citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20).  We do live in this world, but we need to be certain that we are not ‘friends of the world’ as James described (Jas. 4:4).  Too many Christians live as the world lives.  Too many of us have entangled ourselves in the things of this world (2 Tim. 2:4).  Our light has too often been put under the bushel of materialism!

      Let us remember these words of Paul.  “Seek those things which are above” (Col. 3:1).    Read the Bible constantly to know the will of God.  Pray to God always.  Seek to teach others the way of truth.  Live faithful to the Lord and all will ultimately be well! 

       Christianity is unique in the world.  Our uniqueness is seen in our life and worship, but is also seen in our caring for one another.  Paul said, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Gal. 6:10).  Christians are generous in our care for others.

      Do note that saints are first in our care.  The Lord takes care of his people through his people.  Compare Acts 2:44-47; 4:32-36 and Paul’s comments to the Corinthians as our examples and our instructions (1 Cor. 16:1, 2; 2 Cor. 8, 9).

      Whether it is for brethren in the local congregation or brethren around the world, let us take care of those needs as we have opportunity.  When we do, God will be thanked and will be glorified.

       The church was established to fulfill a work in the world.  We are abundantly blessed by the Lord (John 10:10; Eph. 1:3), but we are also a blessing individually and as a body to all others.  Our blessing to the world is in fulfilling the Lord’s purpose for us, his church.

      We are to Worship.  The church is to assemble on the first day and in that assembly we are to worship.  Our songs are to the Lord, the Lord’s Supper is in memory of Jesus and in reflection of his sacrifice for us, our giving is to support the work God has given us to do, our prayers are directed to God and should be a praise to God as well as a presentation of our requests before him and the final activity is the preaching of the word of the Lord to direct our hearts toward him and in his path.  Yes, as we assemble we worship God.  And, as individuals we are able to worship God in song, prayer and proclamation of his work any time.  To worship is our purpose.  [1 Cor. 11, 14, 16]

      We are to encourage [edify] one another.  Again, as we assemble, each activity is to be done as a united body of disciples.  Our focus is on encouraging brothers and sisters.  We are not assembling just to receive, although we do receive, but to actively work to build up others.  Outside our assemblies we are to consider one another and meet the needs of one another.  This is a blessed work of helping our brothers and sisters and encouraging them in life.  We are guiding one another to heaven’s gate.  See 1 Cor. 12, 14; Heb. 10:24, 25.

      The church, all of us together, are to practice benevolence toward the needy.  The encouragement Paul gave to the Corinthians focused on their contributions to assist the needy saints in Judea (1 Cor. 16; 2 Cor. 8, 9), and we need to follow in those steps and help brothers and sisters at every opportunity.

      And, as we fulfill each of these areas we are reminded that we are charged with preaching the gospel to the world.  We are God’s only missionary plan.  It is a perfect plan, we just fall short at times.  Preaching the gospel to the world is our purpose (Mark 16:15, 16).

      While it is not a comprehensive, Paul’s emphasis on Jesus to the Colossians reminds us of Jesus’ identity.  Consider the following attributes of Jesus.

      He is King!  Paul rejoiced that he had been translated [conveyed, NKJ] from the power of darkness into the kingdom of the Son of His love – Jesus!  (1:13).  A kingdom has a king.  The kingdom is of Jesus, so he is king!  And, since Paul had been translated into the kingdom, we know the kingdom was in existence in Paul’s day.  As Paul, each one can be ‘translated’ into his kingdom.  Consider Acts 22:16 for the change described by Paul and when it happened.

      Jesus is Redeemer!  In Jesus we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins by his blood (1:14).  Jesus went to the cross to ‘shed’ his blood to redeem sinful humanity from sin.  He paid the price (1 Pet. 1:16-18).  His disciples are the redeemed, and he is the Redeemer!  We can be ever grateful for this priceless gift!

      He is Creator!  All things were created through him and for him (1:16).  This one statement tells us that Jesus was not created, but created all that was created (compare John 1:1-3, 14).  Jesus is all powerful.  He spoke, and all things came into existence.  He created the world out of nothing (Heb. 11:1, 2).  Just think about his abilities for a moment.  He is awe inspiring!

      Jesus is the Head!  He is the head of the body, which is his church (1:18).  All authority rests in Jesus, and all judgment will be rendered by him (John 5:20).  He has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3).  The inspired writings he provided are able to make us complete (2 Tim. 3:16, 17)!  When we walk with Jesus we have all we need.

      Spend time contemplating the identity of Jesus.  Truly he is unique, and we are blessed in our discipleship.

       Consider the great blessing described by Paul when he speaks of God, “who delivered us out of the power of darkness, and translated us into the kingdom of the Son of his love” (Col 1:13).

      God delivered us out of the power of darkness.  We have been redeemed from our sin through the blood of Jesus (Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 1:16).  No longer is the saint, the Christian, held in bondage to Satan and his evil ways.  We have been delivered, and God is the deliverer.

      We have been translated into the kingdom of Jesus Christ.  God has enabled this change in our relationship, and position.  This change took place when we rose from the waters of baptism (Rom. 6:3, 4; Acts 2:38).  We are in the kingdom of Christ rather than under servitude to Satan.  The kingdom began at the events described in Acts 2, and is usually called the church in the New Testament.  Thanks be to God for this gift of citizenship!

       Abraham was an example that faith and works are not mutually exclusive, but mutually combined.    The faith of this man of God is a pattern for us. 

      And Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness (Gen. 15:6).   This faith is seen through his whole life.  He was not a perfect man, but was a man of faith.  God spoke of his righteousness and that he would teach his children in the way of righteousness  (Gen. 18:19).   When Abimelech sinned, he was told Abraham would pray for him and he would live (Gen. 19:7, 17).  Abraham’s life was a life of obedience.  When God spoke, Abraham listened and responded.

      James was very specific about the relationship of faith and works.  In his great discussion on faith and works he specifically spoke of Abraham.  People often overlook, or even dismiss this chapter of James.  But we must understand that it is from the mind of God just as all scripture.  He says Abraham’s faith was perfected by his works.  “But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?  Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar?  Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect?  And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness." And he was called the friend of God” (James 2:20-23 NKJ).  As we contemplate this passage, let us recognize that faith and works are blended according to the Lord.  And, for those who continually speak of faith alone, consider that the only place the word ‘only’ is combined with faith is in James 2, immediately following and part of the discussion of Abraham’s faith.  It is the conclusion of this discussion.  James wrote:  “You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only” (James 2:24 NKJ emphasis added, G.W.). 

      The works James is speaking of is not works of merit, where God owes us something.  These are works of righteousness, which are the natural fruit of faith.  Both work together.  We believe God and obey him.  The obedient are saved (Heb. 5:9)!

      “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.  For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.  And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist.  And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence”  (Col 1:15-18 NKJ).

     Jesus is the subject of the statements above.  Note carefully that by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, both invisible and visible.  This is consistent with John’s statement about Jesus’ creative activity (John 1:1-3).  With these two scriptures it is very plain that Jesus is eternal, for all that is created was created by him.  This means that any religious group or person who teaches that Jesus had a beginning is wrong.  Nothing was made without him.  He did not create himself, but is eternal.

     Paul also, in this passage, emphasizes the authority of Jesus.  The simple fact that he created all things indicates his authority over those things.  And, his authority is explained, reminding us that he is the head of the body, the church.  As head he has all authority.  What he has given to us in Scripture is the fulfillment of his promise to the apostles (John 16:13-15).  They will be the words by which we are finally judged (John 12:48).  And, his revelation is our perfect law of liberty (James 1:25), guiding us to a home with him.

     His creation, his rule and his plan for us is perfect!

       Jesus fed the multitude (John 6).  After he went across the sea, many followed him.  They asked Jesus about when he had gone across the sea to Capernaum.  “Jesus answered them and said, "Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled.  Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him." (John 6:26-27 NKJ).  Think about the words of Jesus.  Jesus reproved the multitude for following for the physical things rather than the spiritual food.

      We desire to see souls respond to God and enjoy the blessings of salvation.   This desire can move us to entice others by physical things.  It may be food for the belly or a different lure for our physical needs or desires.  We need to remember the words of Jesus and not use the physical to ‘convert’ souls.  We do need to help those in need, but we need to exercise great caution about using the physical to draw them.

      What is the draw?  "And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself.”  This He said, signifying by what death He would die” (John 12:32-33 NKJ).  This was restated by Paul when he declared that the gospel is the power of God unto salvation.  We need to preach the gospel and allow that power to work through us (1 Cor. 1:18).  Every Christian knows why they believe Jesus is the Son of God and can tell that to others.  All of us can grow in our knowledge to perfect our own service, and we can also teach others those things we learn.  We grow toward maturity.  As we study the Bible we know more about God and are directed in our service to God.  Let us preach Jesus and him crucified!  (1 Cor. 2:1-5).

      Let us not draw people to Christ with physical blessings.  The proclamation of the gospel is all sufficient to convert the lost.  However, we do need to exercise compassion on those in need.   This action is to help others and give glory to God, but the gospel is the power of God for salvation.  Let us not blur the boundaries between the two.

       Many of Paul’s letters include references to his prayers on behalf of fellow Christians.  When we look at these comments it is obvious that Paul spent much time in prayer, and that he was grateful for brethren all through the world.  He thanked God for the Colossian brethren whom he heard about, and the Thessalonians whom he knew personally (Col. 1; 1 Thess. 1).   We should follow Paul’s example and pray for one another.

     In these references Paul often refers to thanking God for brethren.  He was grateful for their faithfulness, their love, their work in the kingdom of Christ and other attributes.  Take some time and reflect on the lives of the saints, and thank God for each one.  There is a varied level of maturity among the saints and a diversity of abilities.  We can be thankful to God for each one and their place in the kingdom.

     Paul also prayed for their continued growth (see Col. 1).  We all need the prayers of one another.  We need help in this life from the Almighty.  Pray in accordance with scripture truth, but pray for one another.  Contemplate the needs of others, and pray for them. 

     We, as members of the body of Christ, have a unique ability.  God hears us.  Let us speak to him in prayer.  Let us pray for one another.

Greg Weston

       When we look forward there is a realization that the future may not be ours.  James reminds us that our life is but a vapor, that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.  He was reminding brethren that life’s length is uncertain (James 4:14-17).  Jesus had earlier instructed his disciples to focus on today and not be anxious for the future (Matt. 6:19-34).  When we look forward we are conscious that the future may not be ours.  Putting the Lord and his kingdom first today is our primary action in looking forward (Matt. 6:34).

      There are many opportunities placed before us in the Lord’s service.  Part of those opportunities is encouraging one another.  We are to bear one another’s burdens, while also bearing our own burdens (Gal. 6:1-3).  Each of us has a place in the body of Christ, the church, to build up the body (1 Cor. 12:12ff).   As we proceed in life, let us give attention to that great work of helping others prepare themselves for eternity.

      We have opportunities to see souls saved.  Millions have not heard the truth of the gospel.   Each one of us can help them understand.  We can hold to the truth, and teach it to others.  Remember, the gospel is the power of God unto salvation (Rom. 1:16).   Let us proclaim the gospel in word and deed.

      Congregational activities will come and need to be supported by each one.  Our weekly assembly and class schedule is important to all.  Our teaching in Talent can be supported by all, in many ways.  The opportunity we have to use the World Bible School to teach souls throughout the world is a good work to support.  The annual lectures we host in October are designed for congregational development and each one can have a unique work in advertising and working to support the lectures.  When we have visitors through the year, we can meet them and encourage them.  We can invite people every week, each day, to come visit and learn.  Yes, we have many opportunities in the future.  We should consider each one and prepare to participate in all we can. 

      In every way, let us remember that faithfulness today is our primary concern.  Live faithful today while anticipating tomorrow!

             When another has sinned against you but has repented of that sin and asked forgiveness, the Lord commands us to forgive.  What if we do not forgive that person?

            When we fail to forgive we refuse forgiveness.  The Lord teaches us to pray, “forgive us our debts, as we have forgiven our debtors” (Matt. 6:12).  He continues and tells us that if we do not forgive we will not be forgiven.  Consider then the seriousness of failing to forgive.  If you do not forgive, God will not forgive you.  And rather than the past offender being apart from God, you will be separated from the Lord of Glory!  How tragic!

            As you consider this truth, remember yet another.  Forgiveness means that you no longer hold that sin against the person you forgave.  Never, never should you bring that fault to his or her attention again.  Once it is forgiven, it is to be forgotten.  And even though we may have a difficulty putting it out of our mind, we must always remember it is past and not allow it to surface again.

            Our actions are to reflect the actions of God.  And, we are to forgive has he has forgiven.  When God forgives he will remember our sins no more (Heb. 8:12), so let us work diligently to wipe past offenses which were forgiven from memory.

Letting It Go.  It can be difficult to forgive others, but it can also be extremely difficult to let go of our own sins.  When we repent of the sin and seek forgiveness, God forgives.  Trust him, and let it go.  Move on with life and live faithful to him.  See 1 John 1:9 – 2:2;  3:20-23; 5:13.

       “But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God” (Heb. 10:12).  With that sacrifice for sins, forgiveness is made available to all humanity.  This forgiveness is provided through the blood of Jesus (Acts 20:28; Heb. 9:22).  Through this forgiveness we can have fellowship with God and the hope of living with him for eternity (1 John 1:5-9).

      As we have been forgiven, we need to be ready to forgive – “forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you” (Eph. 4:32).  If we do not forgive, we will not be forgiven (Matt. 6:12).  This is simple to understand, but challenging to consistently apply! 

      Our actions should reflect God’s actions.  We are to be as freely forgiving as God.  Does God forgive every soul?  Does he forgive those who refuse to repent?  Freely forgive, like God.

Greg Weston

       The apostle was hoping to visit Timothy, but in case he was delayed he wrote to instruct him in proper conduct (1 Tim. 3:15).  This admonition reminds us of the words of Jeremiah,  “O LORD, I know the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps” (Jer 10:23 NKJ).  When the Lord gives us the pattern for conduct, it is the perfect pattern for life (see 2 Pet. 1:3; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17).

      Paul’s comments follow his instructions for bishops [elders, pastors] and deacons.  These were primarily instructions concerning their qualifications, which give some information on what they were to do.  When we look at the qualifications of elders and deacons we see a pattern for godliness.  These are qualifications we should all develop in our lives, even if we can never meet them all.

      Paul preceded his instructions on elders and deacons with the behavior of both men and women.  In the second chapter of this letter he instructs men to pray, and notes what we should pray for, where we should pray, and the godly living of the praying person.  He also speaks of modesty in dress and then presses the leadership of the men while limiting certain activities of women.  These are not based on culture but on creation and the first sin of Eve and Adam after their creation.  These instructions continue to govern the conduct of saints in the house of God.

      In the passages following his encouragement to proper conduct, Paul speaks of avoiding false teachings and practices.  He even specifies some teachings and practices which were in the future to him, but are in the distant past to us.  We, unfortunately, live in the era when these false practices and teachings abound!  Paul even speaks of the preacher’s manner of life, of family responsibilities toward their widows, of appointing elders, of our attitude and action regarding physical wealth, and of our zeal for godliness.  While his letter does not address every part of life, he does give guidance to much of life.

            This behavior in ‘the house of God’ is not focused on a building but on living as Christians.  How is your conduct?

       Are you responsible for your father’s mistakes?  It is common knowledge that a person is not held liable for the errors of another.  If that person is a participant in evil doing, then they are responsible for that which they have done.   Sin is placed upon the individual active in the sin.  Long ago God declared through Ezekiel that the father shall not bear the sin of the son, nor shall the son bear the sin of the father.  “The soul who sins shall die” (Ezek. 18:20).

      If God does not declare sin from generation to generation, should we?  Surely not!  We are not responsible for the sins of our forefathers, and should neither carry the guilt nor be called upon to pay the penalty.  Furthermore, if we are holding others responsible for something their fathers or children have done, then we need to let it go.  When God does not hold them responsible, we cannot either.

      We are to take care of the responsibilities we have today.  Be certain you have taken care of past responsibilities, and live righteously today.   Too many troubles come when yesterday is placed as an anchor on today.  Don’t look back, see clearly today.  Many problems in the church are founded on yesteryear events.  Do not let offenses of days gone by hinder you, and do not live in the past generation’s shadow.  Remember, it is the soul that sins who dies.  Don’t be saddled with others’ guilt, and do not put that saddle on others either!

      Political, social and cultural elements can affect the body of Christ.  Do not allow that to happen.  Leave those things for others. Live for the Lord and look to him for truth and righteousness. 

      Jesus was crucified on Friday.  Several ladies followed them when they put him in the tomb, then went home and prepared the necessary items to prepare him for long term burial.  They obviously did not understand the promise he had made – that he would rise from the dead in three days!

      As the ladies approached the tomb, they were first surprised that the stone was rolled away from the mouth of the tomb, and then were dismayed because Jesus was not there.  They even asked where he had been taken.  It took an angel, and the Lord himself to convince them that Jesus was raised from the dead!

      The resurrection of Jesus was a central focus of the preaching of the early church, and should be the same today.  They were surprised, the world today is often surprised to hear the report too.   But in both cases, the empty tomb is an evidence of Jesus’ true identity as the Son of God.

Greg Weston

      Disciples of Jesus have different hearts than the world.  It is a heart which confesses Jesus as the Christ and which obeys the words of our Lord (Rom. 10:6-10;  6:17-18).  Each disciple, however, needs to guard his or her heart so they do not lose heart and fall in unbelief (Heb. 3:10-12). 

       God must be first in our hearts.  “Jesus said to him," 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and great commandment” (Matt 22:37-38).  We put God first, listening to the words given to the Son and through the Holy Spirit were given to the apostles and prophets for our learning.  These are the words we read in the New Testament, with the Old Testament being its inspired and preparatory background.  God is first and that is to be reflected in our hearts and lives.

      Putting God first in our lives has a practical application as well as a ‘theological’ application.  Jesus said, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”  (Matt 6:19-21).  It should be obvious to those around that we are placing our trust and hope in God.  Our physical resources will be bound up in the spiritual mission of the Lord and his church.  Time, abilities and financial wealth are physical blessings we have, which we provide to the Lord’s service as we put those treasures in heaven.  Have you done this?  Are you continuing to do this?  It is often difficult because Satan tempts us to provide for ourselves and our own comfort.  But, as our heart remains focused on the Lord we continue to put our treasure in heaven rather than the earth.

      Is your heart healthy, is it focused on God?  Or, do you have a “heart disease” which is compromised with the world?  We can encourage one another to have healthy hearts.

      Have you ever talked to those who seem to always be complaining about the difficulties of life, and you wonder what difficulties?  You look at their life and they seem to have all they need.  But, they are not content.  They are anxious.   Have you been that person?

      The very fact that you can read this article, or understand it if another reads it to you, means you are blessed.  You can read, can hear, and can understand.  You are blessed!

      Where did you sleep last night?  Were you indoors or out?  Were you warm or cold?  If you were indoors and warm, you are blessed.  Your home may not be like someone else’s, but you are blessed!

      Are you able to be up and out of bed?  So many times we complain about the aches and pains in life, and even cause ourselves more problems by depression and self-pity.  This should not be.  If we have good health, we have great blessings.  If we have the degree of health to be up and doing things, we are blessed.  If we are not able to be out of bed, but can still enjoy the conversation of others and company of family and friends, we are blessed.

      You see, too many times we focus on that which is not important.  We are upset over things which do not matter in the long run.  Live well.  Live wisely.  You will be blessed.

      The last point I will make, and the most important is your relationship with the Lord.  Are you a Christian?  If you are then you are exceedingly blessed and have the ability to be a tremendous blessing to others.  You are a child of God, what more can you want?  Heaven is your home and this life is just temporary.  The best is yet to come – and it far exceeds all we can imagine!  You are blessed. 

      Count your blessings.  Do not complain.  Be content.  God is still in control and if you are his child you have abundant blessings!

Greg Weston

       Jesus is king (John 18:37).  He is the head of the church, which is his body (Eph. 1:22, 23).  He has all authority in heaven and on earth (Matt. 28:18).  But, some reject Jesus as king.  Those who are atheists, agnostics, and all who reject Jesus as the Son of God have rejected him as king.  But, the sad fact is that many who claim Jesus as king have rejected him as the ruler or true king of their lives. 

      The actions of those who claim to follow Jesus but have rejected his authority are like the Israelites in the days of Samuel.  They were of Israel and claimed to be followers of God, but they rejected God as their king and insisted that Samuel give them a king to be like the other nations (1 Sam. 8:7, 8).  They did not reject all that God required of them, they simply rejected him as their ruler and desired a different ruler, a different type of rule.  Their desire was to be like others.

      The religious people of today are busy making their own ways.  They have rejected Jesus as king, to be like those about them.  Once a person has rejected the plan of God for a plan of man the process of departure from God’s truth has begun.  Do not take that first step, but continue to evaluate yourself to be certain you are right with God (see 2 Cor. 13:5).

      The Lord has ordained that we enter the church, the body of saved ones, through the waters of baptism (Gal. 3:27; 1 Cor. 12:13).  Many have rejected this teaching, and Jesus as king.  Jesus has instructed us, through his inspired apostles and prophets, to be active participants of the local congregation which is overseen by elders where there are men qualified to be elders (Acts 20:17-32; 1 Pet. 5:1-5).  If there are no qualified men to be elders [bishops, pastors] there is still a congregation in which we must work as a vital part (see Acts 14:21-23).  There are many who have promoted a different organization to the church, and by doing so have rejected Jesus as king. 

      When we recognize that Jesus is king we will submit to his will.  We will study the New Testament for understanding and application.  In doing this we will honor him as King of kings and Lord of lords.

Basic Biblical Ethics

       Ethics is defined as “the discipline dealing with what is good and bad and with moral duty and obligation… a set of moral principles or values… a theory or system of moral values…: the principles of conduct governing an individual or a group” [Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary, p. 392].

      There are many different codes of ethics, each treating a specific profession or activity.  We often refer to these standards of ethics as codes of conduct.  Within each group there is a set of guidelines which determines people’s conduct in varied circumstances.  This effort at discipline is commendable.  It reflects the evil that is in the world and the goodness which fights against the evil.  That conflict between evil and good is reflective of Biblical truth.  God is good and guides us in goodness, but Satan is the deceiver and tempts us to do evil. 

      The Christian does not need the specific codes of conduct as do others, although they should abide within their professional codes as long as they do not violate scripture truth.  We do not need these codes of conduct, because we have a ‘code of conduct’ given by the Lord.  The teachings of the New Testament guide us in every area of life.  At times they are general principles and at times they are specific teachings.  Every disciple of Jesus who follows the path Jesus has given will be a shining example to all (see Phil. 3:17).

      A basic Biblical ethic is found in the “Golden Rule” – do to others as you would have them do to you (read Matt. 7:12).   Other basic Biblical ethics include not stealing (Eph. 4:28), not lying (Eph. 4:25), and working as if you are working for the Lord (Eph. 6:5).  Ethics in family living are also provided for our maturity in Christ (Eph. 5:22 – 6:4).

      Ethical living is good, but the highest ethical standard is the standard given by Jesus Christ.  If we walk in the path he has given we will be lights to the world (Matt. 5:14), we will please our Lord, and we will have the assurance of eternal salvation (2 Pet. 1:8-11)!  Build your life on Christ!

       “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Phil 4:6 NKJ).

      “Thank you” should be a frequent phrase used by each disciple of Jesus.  These words should always be heartfelt.  This is especially true when we pray.  So many go to God with their requests, but how many go to God simply to thank him for all he has given them.  And when we consider the gifts he has given, let us remember that in him we live and move and have our being.  Our very life is a gift of God.

      In our interpersonal relationships, let us learn to easily, quickly and sincerely say “thank you.”  Every deed of kindness makes our life better.  Thank those who have been a blessing to you, and who are blessings to you. 

Greg Weston

       Abraham is a central figure in the Bible.  He is a person of faith we are to imitate (Rom. 4:12).  His faith is seen in his relationship with God, and the reward of faith is seen in his blessing from God.  Note these descriptions of Abraham’s faith.

       “And he believed in the LORD, and He accounted it to him for righteousness”  (Gen 15:6 NKJ).

       “For what does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness" (Rom 4:3 NKJ).

       “And therefore "it was accounted to him for righteousness."  Now it was not written for his sake alone that it was imputed to him, but also for us. It shall be imputed to us who believe in Him who raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead” (Rom 4:22-24 NKJ).

       “But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?  Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar?  Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect?  And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness." And he was called the friend of God.  You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only”

(James 2:20-24 NKJ).

       We walk in the steps of Abraham when we do as the Lord commands.  Our obedience is our work of faith, not a work to merit salvation.  And, in our obedience we receive the reward of the faithful, as did Abraham.  The passages above emphasize these points, as do other passages.  Be like Abraham, walk by faith.

Beware of Satan

       All of our problems in life can be traced to the deceitfulness of Satan in the beginning.  He deceived Eve and she ate of the fruit God told her not to eat.  She gave to her husband, and he also ate.  From that time humanity has suffered (see Genesis 3).  We are not guiltless, however, for we too have sinned (Rom. 3:23).  But, we can know Satan’s lies and can avoid them.

      One of the great ways to avoid the lies of Satan is to focus on the righteous path given by God.  God has provided all we need for life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3).  When we suffer, somebody has violated that perfect pattern from God.  Often it is our own fault, for it is often our own choice which brings sin and the evil consequence.  So learn the path God has given and follow it closely.  You will be blessed!

      Consider the life of Peter.  There were times when he did not do well.  On one occasion he disagreed with the Lord, and Jesus called him Satan [adversary].  Peter was minding the things of men rather than the things of God (Matt. 16:23).  We need to learn from Peter’s mistakes and accept God’s plan over any man’s ideas, including our own.  He loved the Lord and desired good things, but his desires were actually opposite that which was truly good.  We need to measure our thoughts by the Bible to be certain they are good.  On another occasion, the night of Jesus’ betrayal, Peter was told that Satan wanted to sift him as wheat and that he would deny Jesus three times.  Peter said he would die with Jesus (Luke 22:31-34).  Peter did deny Jesus, just as Jesus said.  But Peter wept over his sin, and returned to serve the Lord and encourage his brethren (Luke 23:54-62).   Peter knew the pain of dealing with Satan, and falling to Satan’s plan.  But Peter also gives us the example of returning to the Lord and finishing life in faithful service to God.  Beware of Satan.  Life a life of faith!

          “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Gal 6:9-10).

      We can all get discouraged.  But when discouragement threatens, remind yourself of the great things the Lord has done, and the blessings you have.  While it seems that some do not notice, or do not care, remember that God knows and God cares.  We should be concerned about his view rather than the view of others.  Do not grow weary, keep doing good.

      It takes time and energy to do good.  But invest that time and energy into good things, seeking to glorify God rather than bringing attention to yourself.  Do not grow weary, and hold up the arms of others who are doing good too!

             The disciples of Jesus, even on the night of his betrayal, had a dispute over who was greatest.  Jesus told them service is true greatness, and that he was the example of that greatness.  "But not so among you; on the contrary, he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves.  For who is greater, he who sits at the table, or he who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table? Yet I am among you as the One who serves”  (Luke 22:26-27 NKJ).  Stop now and consider him who was serving.

            Jesus was in the beginning with God, and was God (John 1:1-3).  He was and is fully divine.  Yet, that evening and all through his physical life on earth Jesus was serving those whom he had created.  His life was an illustration on the greater serving the lesser.  And, as he was about to give the greatest service – in giving his life for all – he had to address once again the human desire for greatness.  Let us learn from him, that to be great we must serve.

            Too often we have the same attitude which was among the disciples.  We are concerned about who is ‘on top’ or receiving the greatest praise.  This is not the attitude of the child of God.  We are, even when we have some position of authority, to demonstrate the attitude and life of serving.  It is good for us to stop frequently and help one another, and others.  And, this aid given to one another is never tallied.  We do not consider how much we help a person compared to how much or little they help us.  Counting our service and comparing it to others removes the concept of serving.  We are to serve as the opportunity arises, without concern of what gain we can get from it (cf. Luke 6:31-35).

            The service we render to one another, and to others, is a part of the light we are to shine in the world.  It enhances the savor of being the salt to the earth (see Matt. 5:13-16).  Yes, these actions are very different than the counsel given by the world.  These actions are greater.  This life will give glory to God for the good works we do.  That is, after all, the purpose of Christian living – to serve God and give him glory.

       There are repeated criminal acts in our society.  Corruption has been obvious among many in high political positions, and we also see similar actions in lower political positions.  Selfish actions are seen in nearly every part of life, one person working to get gain for themselves rather than working for the benefit of others.  And then there are the horrible acts of rape and murder.  It is right for people to become enraged at the doers of terrible deeds.

      As we become enraged at the sins of those around, let us also look at ourselves.  We often dismiss ourselves because we do not behave in such horrible ways.  But, are we truly displaying the kindness of Christianity?  Do we live our lives as Jesus, who truly gave so much for the benefit of others?  Stop and think about what you have done to truly benefit another’s life without thinking about your own.  Christian living elevates the living conditions of all around, but first and foremost our life glorifies God.

      Then, as we reflect upon the evils of others and at times ourselves, let us think about the evil put upon Jesus.  He was truly innocent of all sin.  He was indeed perfect.  But what did humanity do to him?  They scourged him horribly and crucified him on a cross.  He died a cursed death although he was the blessed Son of God.  Why?  Because he was willing to give himself for us, for you.

      Every time the headlines cause you to gasp at the inhumanity at hand, remember the horrible events before and at the cross.  That was a greater evil than we see in the world today.  Determine to give Jesus your full obedience and teach others to do the same.  This will change the world and will prepare people for eternity.   Look carefully at your life, make corrections, and follow Him!

       Some have objected to citing the pledge of allegiance because the author was a socialist.  The same people who object to that have voiced a need to return to the ideals of our nation’s ‘fathers’.  But these ‘fathers’ did not accept the New Testament as the only authority in religion, and often had radical theological beliefs.  Which is better?  A promoter of government and society which differs from our’s, or the promoter of a religion which opposes Jesus?  The one opposes a human system, the other opposes the Lord. 

      We are citizens of a physical kingdom [nation] and have responsibilities within it.  And in our nation we have the freedom to speak and even voice opposition to the government.  But, let us speak carefully. 

      No earthly nation or law is perfect.  The law given by the Lord is perfect (Jms. 1:21).  We serve the Lord first.

        We have the honor and the responsibility of giving an answer for the hope that is within us (1 Pet. 3:15).  Throughout the Bible we read of people defending their faith.  The answer for our faith does not vary, for God and his inspired will do not change.  However, the same answer is not adequate for every situation.  In a recent group discussion many were giving Biblical answers, but one person said he did not believe in God and Jesus was less impressive to him than the fable of Santa Claus.  Biblical answers were beneficial, but for this person more basic answers are needed.

      For the atheist and agnostic we need to provide evidences for the existence of God.  It is good for us to refresh ourselves in these evidences frequently.   We see Paul doing this very thing in Athens as spoke to the philosophers there (Acts 17).

      For the person who does not believe that Jesus is the Christ, which include Jews and Muslims, we need to study the gospels and review sermons in the book of Acts to help sharpen our skills in reasoning with them concerning Jesus.  Do not forget that Old Testament prophecies were an integral part of their answers, and should be included in our defense also.

      Then there are many who believe that Jesus is the Christ, but they deny simple Biblical teachings.  Many of them have concluded that many details are unimportant, while others believe the New Testament contains principles rather than specifics and that the principles should be applied to each culture and each age.  For these we need to remind them of the perfection of the will of God, and its timelessness (Jms. 1:25; 1 Pet. 1:25). 

      As we sharpen our skills in giving our defense we have the joy of growing in our Christian faith.  When we are tested we are sharpened.

      The church in Corinth was reproved for problems associated with the Lord’s Supper.  They were not considering one another, but were looking to themselves.   This is not what the Lord’s Supper is about.  The Lord’s Supper is a memorial in which each saint participates.  See 1 Cor. 11:17-34.

      The Lord’s Supper is to be observed as a congregation.  The church was told if they could not correct their problem, to eat at home.  This eating was of a regular meal.  But the Lord’s Supper was to continue as a memorial among them.  Whenever we read of the Lord’s Supper it is the congregation,  the local church, partaking together.  We have no other pattern or authority.  This focuses on the relationship with the Lord and within the congregation.  And, it reminds us that the Lord intends for every saint to be an active member of a congregation faithful to him.

      The Lord’s Supper is a memorial of what Jesus did for us.  The bread represents the body Jesus gave for us, and the fruit of the vine symbolizes the blood shed by Jesus for our sins.  As we partake of these elements of the Lord’s Supper we are to reflect upon the sacrifice of our Lord, this is what a memorial is about.  Jesus said, “This do in remembrance of me” (1 Cor. 11:24).  As a congregation of disciples we remember our Lord who died to redeem us from sin.

      The pattern we have for the Lord’s Supper is a first day of the week observance, as the saints are together (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 11:17ff; 16:1-2).  This is the only authority we have to partake, and the frequency of partaking.  We cannot increase the frequency, nor decrease the frequency of the Lord’s Supper.

      Wait for one another.  Consider your brothers and sisters.  Partake of the Lord’s Supper with them, remembering his sacrifice and proclaiming his death till he comes.  This is our honor and privilege!

       Do you remember Cornelius?  The scripture describes him as devout.  The description of his life is impressive, but he was still lost.  How do we know?  He was told to send for Peter who would preach words whereby he must be saved.  That means he was lost prior to hearing Peter and submitting to Peter’s instruction [Acts 10:4-6; 11:13, 14].

      There are many religions like Cornelius.  There is a degree of ‘devout’ in them, but they have not obeyed the words of Peter.  And, some are set in opposition to Peter’s words.  That means that regardless of their devout characteristics, they are not part of God’s people.

      Do not accept that which God will not accept.  Do not overlook that which God will not overlook.  Read the scriptures and follow them.  When you do that completely, you are both devout and saved.  This is our goal.

      Most people, it seems, have national pride.  This can be good, but it can also hinder that which is most important.  The apostle Paul certainly was a faithful Jew, but when he learned the gospel he gave up that heritage.  He explained to the Galatians, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.  And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise” (Gal 3:28-29 NKJ).  There were times when Paul spoke of and even appealed to his citizenship, but in the church he emphasized that nationality or race means nothing.  We are to be disciples of Jesus.  Discipleship is the most important identification.

      Overcoming national pride can be very difficult.  Becoming blind to racial differences can be a high hurdle to jump.  But, when it comes to our relationship with God and our fellowship within the body of Christ we must jump that hurdle and overcome the difficulties.  Remember, our citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20).  Therefore, we consider this brief time on earth through eyes focused on eternity.

      We often hear prayers offered for the safety of our troops in war.  What about the troops of the opposing nation?  We do need to recognize that not every U.S. soldier is a Christian, and that it may be that there are brothers or sisters serving in the opposing army.  If so, they are doing as our soldiers are doing – submitting themselves to the powers of their country (Rom. 13:1ff).  When we pray we need to consider all things apart from national pride.

      If we are not careful, our national pride can restrict our evangelistic activities.  In the heat of immigration discussions we can develop a poor attitude toward the immigrants, if we are not careful.  They do need to obey the law, but we also need to obey the Lord and teach them the gospel with zeal.

            There is neither Jew nor Greek.  In application, there is neither U.S. citizen nor alien.  When in Christ we are one regardless of human allegiances.  Let us work for this unity!

      The temple which Solomon built was destroyed by the Babylonians.  Then, when Israel was brought back to her land they began rebuilding the temple.  But they did not focus on their job.  The Lord rebuked them for not maintaining the proper priority.  He said, through Haggai,   "Is it time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, and this temple to lie in ruins?" (Hag 1:4 NKJ).  They were taking care of themselves but neglecting the temple of the Lord!

      Today we do not have a temple made with stones, the church is the temple of God.  “Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?  If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are” (1 Cor 3:16-17 NKJ).  If the physical temple of the Old Testament era needed the attention of the Israelites, then certainly we can understand that the spiritual temple also needs the attention of God’s people.  The specific context focuses on how one builds on the foundation, who is Jesus, and the holiness to be seen in this spiritual temple.

      Our work, then, includes care for building the temple.  Read again John’s instructions on loving our brethren (1 John 3).  This is an admonition for every disciple.  With this love we will assist with physical needs, but we also must look to the spiritual.  We need to encourage one another to love and godliness (Comp. Heb. 10:23-25).   As we encourage and build, we need to guard personal holiness.  The standard of holiness is the Lord.  We are to be holy as he is holy (1 Pet. 1:13). 

      Consider the rebuke of the Lord to Israel of old.  Let us build on the foundation, and grow as the Lord’s temple with diligence so we never cause the Lord to want to chasten us as well. 

       Pure souls are important.  Sin separates a person from God, but when one is forgiven there is a purity of one’s soul and fellowship with God.  Jesus died on the cross and shed his blood for the forgiveness of our sins (Matt. 26:28).  Purification is available only through Jesus.

      We do have a part in this purification though.  Peter wrote,  “Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart”  (1 Pet 1:22 NKJ).

      Our obedience is described by Peter.  Forgiveness is given to us when we are baptized into Christ (Acts 2:38).  It is indeed a gift of God, but is given when we respond to him.  And, our response is to continue.  One of many instructions we are to follow is to love one another fervently from the heart.

      Enjoy this purification, and live as God’s redeemed people! 

      The Bible is the product of the Spirit of God ‘breathing into’ holy men the message God wants all humanity to understand and follow (2 Pet. 1:21; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17).  This message, while it uniquely allows the personality and background of the author to a degree, is given with divinely chosen/approved words in the original language in which it was delivered.   This is illustrated in God’s charge to Jeremiah, where God comforted him by telling him he would give Jeremiah the words to speak (Jer. 1:9, 10).  It is also seen in Paul’s explanation of Jesus’ fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham, using the specifics of a singular word rather than the plural.  This process of delivering his will to humanity insured total accuracy in communication.  So why do we not understand the Bible alike?  If the process of revelation is perfect, why is our understanding so varied?  Think for a moment.  The fault is humanity’s shortcoming, not God’s!

      One large problem is that people so often ignore the context of a verse of scripture.   A person will quote a verse and present it as the entirety of God’s revelation on the matter.  One will quote Ephesians 2:8 and declare that faith is all that is necessary for one to be saved.  But, they have forgotten or willfully ignored many other passages.  A simple search in the Bible on ‘saved’, ‘save’ and related subjects will give a much clearer view on the subject.  Hearing the will of God is required, believing the message is demanded, confessing Jesus as the Christ is bound on all, and calling on the name of the Lord is the time when one is saved (Rom. 10:8-17).  Then one has to ask what is meant by calling on his name.  Jesus declared that it was not simply a verbal action (Matt. 7:21-23).  So, what could it be?  Compare Acts 22:16 and see when Paul called on the name of the Lord.  This calling is accomplished at baptism.  Looking at the entire context of scripture, all of what God has said about a subject, leads us to a full knowledge of the truth. 

      The Bible is from God, and is perfect (James 1:25).  This is one reason we must give extreme effort to study it and understand it.  As you study you will be abundantly blessed!

       “And he looked up, and saw the rich men that were casting their gifts into the treasury.  And he saw a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites.  And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, This poor widow cast in more than they all: for all these did of their superfluity cast in unto the gifts; but she of her want did cast in all the living that she had.” (Luke 21:1-4 ASV)

       Read the scripture above, and read it again.  There are two types of people in this event in the life of Jesus.  Now take some time and look at your own life.  Which of these are you?

  o   I am one who gives of my superfluidity, my abundance.

    o   I am one who gives of my want.

       Is the Lord pleased with your giving?

      A large number of people will look at the title of this article and laugh.   Some may think I am using the title to cause them to read, but that the title is not actually true.  Others will think that I am just a crazy fundamentalist!  Read on and consider carefully what ‘we’ have found.

      Can you draw or sculpt something you have never seen?  In multiple locations there are drawings of dinosaurs by our ancestors.  How could they draw something they had never seen?  In addition, the drawings on Ica Stones have details of the animals which ‘we’ did not discover till years after the first Ica Stones were put on display.  These ancient people saw things many say could not be seen.  In addition, there is a collection of sculptures in Mexico of dinosaur sculptures.  And, again, these sculptures have details which we did not ‘discover’ till after the sculptures were found and put on display.  The only answer is that these people lived among those animals which they captured in drawings or sculpted.  Humans did live among the dinosaurs.  (See Eric Lyons and Kyle Butt, The Dinosaur Delusion:  Dismantling Evolution’s Most Cherished Icon).

      Another interesting fact is that we now have ‘soft tissue’ from dinosaurs.  A simple search on the internet provides many web pages which verify that we have T. Rex soft tissue of the bone [one example is www.msnbc.msn.com/id/7285683].  Can this soft tissue actually have lasted for the 70 million plus years that many presume it has been since dinosaurs died out? 

      These details and others demonstrate yet again that science must continually adjust its conclusions.  Errors have been made.  And, as we find more and more facts it is also becoming more and more obvious that dinosaurs are not the ancient ‘terrible lizards’ which long preceded human development. 

      While science works through the continued stream of discoveries, and debates the applications and interpretation of data, we can rest confidently in the assertion “In the beginning God created heaven and earth”  (Gen. 1:1).  Let not man’s imperfect understanding replace the eternal Creator’s declaration of his work.  His words are true.

      I had a “drug” problem when I was a young person and teenager: 

·         I was “drug” to church on Sunday morning.

·         I was “drug” to church on Sunday night.

·         I was “drug” to church on Wednesday night.

·         I was “drug” to Vacation Bible School.

·         I was “drug” to the family table to read the Bible and pray to God.

·         I was “drug” to the woodshed when I disobeyed my parents. 

     Those “drugs” are still in my veins; and they affect my behavior in everything I do and say and think.  They are stronger then cocaine, crack or heroin.  If your children had this kind of “drug” problem, wouldn’t America be a better place?

From: The Good News Church of Christ, Elgin, Texas.

Via:  The Upland Church of Christ

Via:  Earlene Abraham

This article, then, has been “drug” through many hands for many years, and it is still profitable to all.

       “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; But the end thereof are the ways of death”  (Prov 14:12 ASV).

      Jesus said, “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matt 4:4 ASV).

      There are many opinions in the world, but none are completely trustworthy.  At times we are right, but at times we are not.  However, when it comes to living life and preparing for eternity, God is always right.  He has spoken to all humanity through the book we call the Bible.  When we study it and apply it to our lives we are in the right way.  When we ignore it or fail to apply it, we are wandering aimlessly and will not succeed spiritually. 

      Give attention to Bible study, and be earnest in applying the will of God to your life.  Be right! 

       The church of the Lord is identified through the local churches, the congregations.  Do note that when the plural, churches, is used it is simply used of multiple congregations of the one church.  Each congregation, however, must follow the same teachings and follow the same instructions (comp. 1 Cor. 4:17).  There is only one head, and he is Jesus.  If we all follow the one head we will be one in teaching and action. 

      Every child of God is to partake of the Lord’s Supper on the first day of each week (1 Cor. 11:17-34).  This memorial ‘supper’ is to be done as the congregation is assembled.  And, each one is to give as they prosper, laying by in store on the first day of the week (1 Cor. 16:1, 2).  This giving is to be done as a congregation.  Paul told the Corinthians to give on the first day, that no collections would need to be made when he arrived (1 Cor. 16:2).  Since they would have already ‘collected’ it on the first day of each week, the local church simply gave the amount they had collected to the apostle Paul.  These two actions demonstrate some of the work to be done in the local congregation.

      In addition, the early church was to appoint elders in every church (Acts 14:23; Tit. 1:1-5; 1 Tim. 3:1-7; 5:17-22; 1 Pet. 5:1-5).  These elders are overseers of the congregation, the local church.  They are shepherds of the spiritual flock.  The congregation is to submit to them (cf. 1 Thess. 5:12-13; Heb. 13:17). 

      When we read the New Testament the Lord directs our spiritual activities to work largely within the framework of the local congregation.  We are to encourage one another and work with one another in fulfilling the work the Lord has given to the church.  The local congregation, then, is exceedingly important in the mind of the Lord.  Is it important to you?  Are you participating in the local congregation?  Work as the Lord directs, and in the manner he directs.  When you do, you give him glory and are following the path of righteousness.

      “But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison” (James 3:8 NKJ).

       James has given us many things to think about concerning our tongue, our speech.  Indeed, the tongue has caused great mischief in the world.  People have been destroyed and nations have fallen as a result of words spoken unwisely.  James’ words reflect our Lord’s teaching. 

      “And He said, "What comes out of a man, that defiles a man.  For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness.  All these evil things come from within and defile a man" (Mark 7:20-23 NKJ).  The tongue reveals what is in the heart.  Many of the sins Jesus described includes an action of the tongue.  Those who desire to be disciples of Jesus need to consider these actions and the horrible condition of the one who is involved in them.

      The solution to the problem of the tongue, and that which comes out of the evil heart, is to purify the heart.  Jesus gives us the means for that purification.  He has provided the way, and invites us to participate.  Read Matthew 11:28-30 carefully.  We have the choice to make.  We have the action of taking his yoke and learning of him to fulfill.  A blessing of discipleship is growing in righteousness.  This does not come by imitating the world, but by imitating Jesus (1 Cor. 11:1). 

      Yes, the tongue is full of deadly poison – except when our hearts are pure.  Then the tongue is changed and our speech is seasoned with grace (Col. 4:6).   How wonderful it is to have a pure heart control a tongue which blesses rather than curses!  How is your tongue?  How is your heart?  Imitate Jesus and be both blessed and a blessing to others.

      The knowledge Peter was writing about was not just any knowledge.  He was concerned with our knowledge of the will of God.  His encouragement was for them to remember what he ad told them, to continue in those things the Lord had revealed in scripture.  This is knowledge we need.  Take time to read and study the Bible carefully.

      When Jesus was tempted he repeated the phrase ‘it is written’ three times.  He knew the will of God and was determined to do that which was right and true.  We can follow in his steps.  As we grow in our knowledge we have the ability to resist temptation.  Work to grow in knowledge.  Factual knowledge in scripture is excellent, but knowing the will of God for everyday living is even better.  Living according to the will of God each day is pleasing to God and ultimately rewards us with eternal life.

      Note carefully this sad reproach of God’s religious leaders in the Old Testament era.  “        My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for Me; because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children”  (Hosea 4:6 NKJ).  

      Do not let this be said of you.  Study the scripture, examine it daily and obey the voice of the Lord.   Rejoice in the knowledge of God and in walking in the path he set for us.  In this we glorify him!

      When Jesus was preparing the people for the great blessing he would provide in the church he usually referred to the church as the kingdom.  Those two words are used interchangeably for the church.  Remember the words of Jesus,  "And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.  And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven" (Matt 16:18-19 NKJ).  In the gospels he speaks of the church as the kingdom, but after the resurrection the word church is used more frequently than the word kingdom.

      Jesus taught those of his day that the kingdom would come ‘with power’ in their lifetime (Mark 9:1).  Then he told his apostles to wait in Jerusalem for the promise of the Father, and till they were clothed with power from on high (Luke 24:49).  He told them the promise was the baptism with the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4, 5), at which time they would received power (Acts 1:7).

      In the second chapter of Acts, the apostles were still in Jerusalem, were baptized with the Holy Spirit and received power.  That power caused great interest and excitement.  With the power coming upon them in Jerusalem the church was ‘born’.  On that day Peter and the apostles declared that Jesus had been crucified by lawless men but was raised by the Almighty God.   Then Peter instructed the people what to do in order to be forgiven (Acts 2:38).  Three thousand souls were saved on that day because they gladly received what he said and obeyed the voice of the Lord.  In Jerusalem the divine institution called the church was born.   Read Acts 2 for the full account.

Bulletin.  September 27, 2009

       It is a natural thing to take care of one’s self.   Perhaps that is why Jesus said, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matt 22:39).  Many have a difficulty loving their neighbor, but loving one’s self is usually easy.  In this statement of Jesus we are encouraged to look beyond ourselves.  We are to love others as we love ourselves.  This view will naturally cause us to seek the well being of those around us, our neighbors.  The term neighbor is not restricted to a geographical location but is a view to those among whom we live and work.  Certainly the ‘Good Samaritan’ is the example Jesus expects us to follow in loving our neighbor (Luke 10:30-42).

      When we look beyond ourselves we must recognize those responsibilities of each Christian to behave in ways which benefit all.  And, even the paying of taxes is one of those actions of mutual benefit.  Yes, we all will not like how some of our tax dollars are spent, but that is not the qualification Jesus used to answer the question on paying taxes.  He asked whose inscription is on the coin.  He then said to render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.  He instructs us to pay taxes  (Luke 20:21-25).  As you pay taxes remember that they provide for our national defense, give us roads to drive on, assist in the ease of our daily life and even provide ‘retirement’ funds for many Americans.  But even if they did not do those things, we would still be obligated to pay the taxes because we want to be faithful to Jesus.

      There is another side to seeing beyond ourselves.  Many people seem to want to quickly jump on any government program to get as much benefit as they can from the government.  Every one who does causes the government to demand more from others.  When we take from the government are we really looking beyond ourselves?  [This excludes receiving Social Security which we pay into to receive later in life.] Each of us needs to remember the words of Paul and work so that we can give to others (Eph. 4:28).  Our labor provides for ourselves and our family (1 Tim. 5:8), but is also to extend to others. 

      Look carefully at your life and make certain that you are looking beyond yourself.  Do this at home.  Do this in the congregation.  Do this at work.  Do this at all times, and follow the instructions of our Lord for living.

Bulletin.  September 20, 2009

      God’s love for us cannot be denied.  He sent His only begotten Son to pay the price for our sins (John 3:16; Rom. 5:8).  Some focus on His love to such a degree that any instruction from the Lord, any command for us to obey, is understood as a contradiction to the nature of God.  But, when we read the inspired revelation from God we find that God has always commanded His people.  These commands are for our benefit and blessing.  The love of God and the command of God are combined together for our salvation.  His love provided the sacrifice through His Son, and His commands are for our faithfulness.  In our faithfulness we will be blessed with the crown of life (Rev. 2:10). 

      Every disciple of Jesus should rejoice in every word He has given, and give great effort to fulfill the Lord’s desire as it is reflected in His commands.  Consider John 14:15 carefully.

       The most extensive passage on the Lord’s supper is found in Paul’s first letter to Corinth (11:17-34).  There were problems in Corinth concerning the partaking of the Lord’s supper.  While we do not know all the details, we do know that there was a problem between brethren.  There was obviously an eating of a meal around the time of the Lord’s supper, and some were eating well but were leaving others to go hungry.  Paul’s instruction was to wait for one another.  This division in the church was not to be tolerated, and if they could not have fellowship properly they were to eat at home.  That which was to be eaten at home did not refer to the Lord’s supper but to a common meal (11:20-22, 33-34). 

      Within this text we also find a reminder of the institution of the supper by the Lord (11:23-25).  And, we have the command to eat and drink with the blessing of proclaiming the Lord’s death till he comes (11:26).  The Lord’s supper is a memorial of his death and is to be observed by his disciples till he returns.  In addition, we are to consider one another, which Paul’s comments emphasize.  In addition, we are to consider our own life and our faithfulness to the Lord.  Looking at our own life, again, means we consider our relationship to one another as well as to the Lord himself.  If there is something wrong in our lives we should correct it before partaking, lest we condemn ourselves in partaking (11:27-32).

      The Lord’s supper is the privilege of the Christian.  While every command of the Lord is bound on every soul, the non-Christian is still separated from the Lord in their sin and does not have fellowship with him at all.  But, when they become disciples through the waters of baptism they have fellowship with Him and the observance of the Lord’s supper is a time of fellowship with the Lord.

      The Lord’s supper is to be observed when the church is gathered, as each passage on the supper indicates.  We cannot take it at home, or a different place for our convenience.  It is a part of our assembly.  This is just one of many reasons for all to assemble on the first day. 

Bulletin.  September 13, 2009

       We have division in our land.  There is great commitment on both sides, all sides of an issue by a large number of people.  There are gatherings of individuals speaking out on one side, and there are many speaking out on another.  Have you ever asked, “Where is the truth?”  in these settings?  And have you ever wondered if you can get to the truth?

      In at least some areas the truth of the matter can be determined by looking closely into the statements written or spoken by those in authority.  More of us need to look and read. 

      We often find the same thing in religion.  People will repeat what others say, even forcefully, but have not read the divine authority.  Read the scriptures.  You can understand. 

      "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free"  (John 8:32 NKJ).

       Remember the great challenge of Joshua?  He told Israel, "And if it seems evil to you to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Josh 24:15

NKJ).  There was a decision to be made, a choice in serving the Lord or serving false gods.

      Years later Ezekiel spoke of the choice of each person.  "The soul who sins shall die. The son shall not bear the guilt of the father, nor the father bear the guilt of the son. The righteousness of the righteous shall be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon himself” (Ezek 18:20

NKJ).  In the context Ezekiel spoke of the disastrous consequence of a righteous man who decided to do evil, but of the forgiveness given the wicked man who repented and lived righteously.  Each person had a choice.

      Jesus emphasized our choice, and the result of our choice.  "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven”  (Matt 7:21 NKJ).  This action comes from the person.  Our obedience to the Lord is our choice.  And, our eternal condition is the end result of what we choose.  Jesus has provided the means to salvation and encouraged all to make the choice to become his disciple.

      When Paul preached, not all believed.  Why?  Consider carefully the explanation given.  “Then Paul and Barnabas grew bold and said, "It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; but since you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles”  (Acts 13:46 NKJ).  Paul and Barnabas placed the cause of their rejection on them. 

      Every soul has a choice.  God has provided the way, and no one has an excuse.  Have you chosen well?   Do you continue to choose well each day?  To choose well is to be a Christian!

       We all want to be strong in faith.  When we are strong in faith we are able to resist temptations which come our way and endure the trials which are ours.  Read again the great blessings of faith in the 11^th chapter of Hebrews.  Don’t you want to be like those who through faith served God and became examples to the rest? 

      Faith comes by hearing the word of God (Rom. 10:17).  Begin each day reading and considering carefully the will of God.  Reflect upon his righteousness all day, and on the blessings he has given us.  Our daily study strengthens our faith.

      Make determined plans to be present at every assembly of the congregation, and at classes.  The word of God is studied and the benefit of brothers and sisters studying together is provided for our growth.  You may be tired, but attend anyway.  Do not hinder any soul from attending if you are not able.  Encourage and even insist that they go. 

      Participate in additional opportunities for study.  The Savage Street church in Grants Pass is having a Creation Seminar this month, September 18-20.  Make plans to go.  Save the money for gas, and car pool when you can [sharing gas expense].  Set aside the time.  Take others with you.  This will strengthen your faith.  And, remember to set aside October 1-4 for our lectures.  The lectures will focus on the text of Acts 2, but with that text will include many other texts and topics from scripture.  Again, this will strengthen your faith.  And, you will be an encouragement to others as they strengthen their faith. 

      As your faith increases many of the pressures of life will subside because you will focus on the Lord.   Follow the plan above, and be blessed with stronger faith!

Bulletin.  September 6, 2009

       The Jewish leaders asked Jesus, “By what authority are you doing these things?”   These leaders should have recognized both Jesus and the source of his authority – but they did not.  The question is good to ask in many circumstances, but was inappropriate when asked of Jesus.

      In all matters concerning our relationship to God and our response to him we need to ask, “By what authority?”  This is because Christianity is a revealed religion.  The Lord has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness, by revelation to the apostles and prophets of the first century.  Why then is there such diversity within ‘Christendom’?  Because many people are not content to abide within the authority of the Lord.

      Be bold and give answer regarding the authority we have for our teachings and practices.  Know the will of the Lord and do it zealously.  In this we will glorify Him!

             This morning as I watched Senator Edward M. Kennedy’s memorial I was struck by the surroundings and the procedure.  There were military pall bearers whose precision was impressive and which spoke to the honor we bestow upon the office of a Senator.  This is part of our culture as a nation.  In addition, I found it interesting to see such a magnificent and ornate building in the midst of what was described as a ‘common neighborhood’ of the poor and forgotten.  Obviously there had been a change in the neighborhood, but the building continued to be an impressive architectural monument.  But perhaps even more interesting were the ‘religious’ parts of this memorial service.  It was exceedingly formal and ritualistic.  The gowns, the participants and their hierarchy, the items of religious significance and the words spoken reflected a tradition from years past.  But, one of the commentators erred in his description.  He spoke of a 2,000 year old tradition in respect to the religious service.  Little of what was done or said reflected Christianity as revealed through the apostles and prophets!

      The comment of this newscaster should remind us that many people have no idea what Christianity of the apostolic was about.  Even those who have obtained higher academic degrees do not necessarily understand the perfect Biblical pattern.  New Testament Christianity is simple in its observance, challenging in precept and perfect in guiding humanity to spiritual maturity.   Continue in your study of the Biblical text.  Focus on the teachings of the New Testament and practice them diligently.  Then, help every other person understand this perfect pattern from God. 

      Put aside all things that are not found in the New Testament and trust in the eternal author for all of life’s blessings and the hope of eternity.  The truths revealed in the New Testament constitute the blueprint for Christian faith and practice till Jesus returns – without addition, subtraction or modification.

       Which comes first in your daily life, speaking or thinking?  Often it seems that speaking comes first with many, and then they spend energy thinking of how to solve the mess they made with their words. 

      James lays a challenge before us.  “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;         for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God” (James 1:19-20 NKJ). 

      Before you speak, think of what you desire to say. Remember that the world’s vocabulary is often contrary to the speech God desires.   Choose your words carefully.  We cannot erase the words we speak, so speak wisely.

            Listen to James.  Swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath!

       The inspired apostle Paul said there is one body (Eph. 4:4).  This one body is the church (Eph. 1:11, 23).  The Lord emphasized constantly through the New Testament that every disciple is to strive to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Phil. 2:1-4).  This should be obvious even in the term disciple, the learner of the Lord.  A disciple is to follow the Teacher, and as all follow the Teacher there will be unity.

      So, what about the popular idea of attending the church of your choice?  And, what about the concept that as long as we are sincere we will be acceptable to God?  And, what about the different views of God?  They are all in opposition to the truths emphasized above.  God is not the sum of our ideas or even our hopes.  The church is not fashioned to our desires but is directed by the Lord Himself, who is the head of the church (Eph. 1:22).  Do not be deceived by the ideas of the world, but be guided by the inspired message from the Lord! 

      One mark of the early church is the teaching and practice on when one is added to the church by the Lord.  This is the time when one’s sins are forgiven.  Remember, the Lord will not have fellowship with sin (Isa. 59:1, 2).  There are many different teachings in the world about when one is forgiven, but there is a clear direction from the Lord.  Read these passages for yourself:  Mark 16:16;  Acts 2:38;  22:16; 1 Pet. 3:21.  In these passages you will see that salvation, forgiveness, is received when one is immersed in water for the purpose of remission [forgiveness] of sins.  Yes, we must understand because we are to obey from the heart the form of teaching delivered to us (Rom. 6:16-18).  Faith is necessary (Eph. 2:8).  Repentance is required (Acts 2:38).  Confessing Jesus as the Christ is unto salvation (Rom. 10:10).  But the Bible tells us that God forgives at baptism [immersion in water].

      Teach these truths clearly to all.  And remember, if a religious group denies the basic truth on salvation they cannot be the one church Jesus established, which enjoys every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places (Eph.1:3).

       Jesus said, “For you have the poor with you always” (Mark 14:7).  This comment was in response to criticism of the woman who anointed Jesus a short time before his death.  But Jesus gave us a truth we continue to realize, there are always those who are poor.

      Why are they poor?  Some are lazy and will not work.  But to them the Lord says if they do not work they should not eat (2 Thess. 3:10).  Some are poor because the rich oppress them (cf. Jas. 2:6).  And, there are other reasons why some are poor.  Being poor is defined differently by different people too.  

      It is popular today, and perhaps always has been to a degree, to criticize the rich.   In fact, many people of wealth appear insulted when you refer to their wealth.  “Rich” has become a term of derision for some.  Along with the criticism of wealth is the idea that the rich should forfeit their wealth and give it to the poor.  Do you remember the story of Robin Hood?  We have many who have a “Robin Hood” attitude today.  But many of them would be considered rich by vast numbers of people throughout the world. 

      Is it a sin to be rich?  No.  There are examples in the Bible of righteous people who were wealthy.  However, we do need to remember that the Lord does lay upon the wealthy a responsibility to handle our wealth in a godly fashion.  Read 1 Timothy 6 and note the condition of those who have a love of money as well as the responsibility of the wealthy people.

      But we need to think about the principles laid down in the law of Moses.  They were not to follow a multitude to do evil, nor “favor a poor man in his cause” (Ex. 23:3).  And, they were not to “wrest the justice due to thy poor in his cause” (Ex. 23:6).     These principles are reflected in godly living demanded by the law of Christ,  remembering that God is no respecter of persons (Rom. 2:11).  We should not give preference to the rich – nor favor the poor.  Justice is blind to one’s physical prosperity.

      In our efforts to preach, let us preach to all.  As we serve, let us serve all.  To give more attention to one over the other is to “become judges with evil thoughts” (Jas. 2:4).

      We have a significant role in solving these problems.  But, our task does not come from direct involvement but in being the salt to the earth, the light to the world (Matt. 5:1-16).  In our godly lives we lead others to right choices.

      In addition to godly living, we also preach the gospel of Christ.  We will not address on a regular basis all the evils of the world, but when we preach the gospel the word of the Lord is capable of convicting the heart.  With convicted hearts following Jesus the world will change.  Evils of the world will diminish in proportion to the conversion of souls.  Yes, our participation through preaching is the most powerful of all.  Let us preach!

Answer the Puzzle

Greg Weston

There are natural puzzles which have a supernatural explanation. The first is, how did ocean dwelling marine animals get to the higher elevations? In recent years fossils have been found in China.

The fossils were discovered on the western slope of Jinbo Mountain, which stands 2,250 meters above sea level. They are scattered around an area of one square kilometer. All are embedded in rocks. Experts believe they were remains of ancient sea life in the Ordovician period. http://english.china.com/2h_cn/culture_history/treasured_past/11020716/20080917/15092593.html

The Rocky Mountains also have ocean dwelling marine fossils. How did these animals get to such a high elevation? The answer is. The flood of Noah’s day.

There are many fossils throughout the world which give evidence that the earth was once much more uniform in temperature than it is now. The ‘waters above the waters’ of Genesis 1 explains these questions. It is sad that many will refuse this explanation, because it has a supernatural source – God. He brought the flood waters to cleanse the earth from evil. The Bible gives us the specifics, and in the natural world we find reminders of this event. These natural reminders should cause the unbelieving to find and seek God, and should remind the Christian of the purpose and power of our God. What puzzles much of the world brings praise to God from many in the world.

Bulletin.  July 11, 2009

There is an alarm in our land, and through the world, concerning financial matters. And, indeed, there are significant challenges! But while the news headlines thrive on the ‘bad’ news, always think about this news objectively. For instance, our unemployment rate as a nation has increased markedly in the past few months. But, more than 90% are still employed! Give words of encouragement to those who are worried - we still have 90% who are employed. With that figure come multiple blessings.

Do not dabble in the irrational, but be optimistic. There are many blessings which we have, and enjoy. The greatest of these is our treasure in heaven, which is never tarnished. 90% is never applied to spiritual blessings, for they are abundantly supplied by God. Look up, and be thankful!

Greg Weston

Death is not the end of living! Death is measured by the lack of physical functions, like the heart rate and brain activity. But those only measure the physical side of man. Paul tells us that we are soul, spirit and body (1 Thess. 5:23). The inspired writer also tells us that it is difficult to discern between the soul and the spirit (Heb. 4:12). James tells us that the body without the spirit is dead (Jas. 2:24). It is the body which dies, the spirit continues to live.

Solomon said that the body will return to the dust, and the spirit to God who gave it (Eccl. 12:7). We can measure the physical decay, but are given revelation to explain the spiritual side of man. When the spirit returns to God, we must understand that not every spirit will be blessed in eternity. There is heaven which is a place of comfort, and there is the place of eternal destruction called hell. Each of us decides which condition we experience. That decision is made when we decide whether to obey Jesus or not. See Matt. 25:31-46.

Jesus is the Son of God, and the Redeemer. There is no person who will be able to enjoy the comfort of heaven without faith in, and obedience to Jesus (John 8:24; 14:6; Matt. 7:24-27). Each one needs to understand that we do not have the opportunity to choose which commands to obey, and which we can ignore. We are to be diligent in learning the will of God and applying all of what he says. This will result in a life walking with God, giving Him glory, enjoying the fruit of righteous living and having the promise of living eternally with Him.

These truths, not doubt, had some bearing on the apostle Paul’s optimism, an optimism we share! Paul said, "Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal" (2 Cor 4:16-18).

Do you remember the first Gulf War? It was a time when many religious leaders were telling us that the end of the world was near. One preacher said if it was not a sign of the end, then it was a "huge birth pang" toward the end. They had looked at varied Biblical references, put the details they combed from varied passages into one expectation, and made the application to that war. How long ago was that? Their predictions, yet again, failed.

The warnings of those days were echoes of many other times. People have been predicting the end of the world for many, many years. But remember two points. First, the mark of a false teacher is missed predictions (Deut. 18:18-20). They identify themselves, then, as false teachers. Do not listen to them. Second, the Lord will come "as a thief in the night" (1 Thess. 5:1-11). There will be no sign of his coming. You do not need to be fearful, just be prepared! And, look forward to his coming in righteous living.

Bulletin.  March 1, 2009

If our entire existence was limited to the length of our physical life, how disturbing that would be. The idea of no future beyond this life has frustrated countless lives. But, this is not all. There is more.

We are limited to the physical. That is, we cannot know with the physical senses the facts of the spiritual. However, we do know what is ahead because God has told us. He knows all things, and His Son is the Judge of the living and the dead (2 Tim. 4;1). God tells us that the physical part of life is the shortest. Eternity looms before us. And, how we live in this physical world determines the existence we will have in the spiritual (2 Cor. 5:10).

Live the life given by inspiration of the Holy Spirit (the Bible), and prepare for eternity. The best is yet to come!

Greg Weston

What should you do when somebody tells you something about another, which you do not know is true? Often, people accept the statement and tell another. How do you know it is true? Even if a trusted friend told you, are you certain the friend has all the facts? Too many men and women have been ruined because somebody reached a conclusion which is not true, and spread that ‘conclusion’ as truth. We must be careful about what we say! Do not repeat that which you are not certain is true. Stop the rumors!

It is sad that even when one watches the news, or reads the paper, that they must listen and read with caution. How many news reports have later been changed because all the facts were not known at the time of publication, or the ‘reporter’ decided to withhold certain details. We live in a world where information is constantly given, too often before its accuracy is confirmed. Be careful. Be discerning. If you do not know something is true, stop it in its tracks. Do not repeat it or send it until you know it is true. Yes, this will reduce the length and frequency of many conversations. But, that will be wonderful. It will be a reduction in noise pollution! As James says, be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to wrath (James 1:19). And, be careful what and how you hear (Mark 4:24; Luke 8:18)! Today I will eat at McDonald’s to make up for some who will not because of a false rumor.

Bulletin.  February 15, 2009

It is extremely rare to find a person who desires to eat the same food every meal. And, few truly want to wear the same clothes every day and all day. In many areas of life, we want variety. And in many areas of life that is fine. But, there are some areas of life that we want to stay the same. We want our car to start every time we turn on the ignition!

More importantly, though, we need to realize that there are things which God intends to stay the same. "And the things which thou hast heard from me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also" (2 Tim 2:2). God’s instruction to man, through Jesus Christ, are to remain the same. Men often try to change them, but God does not approve. Are we teaching and living as Paul?

"Now therefore, fear the LORD, serve Him in sincerity and in truth, and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the River and in Egypt. Serve the LORD! And if it seems evil to you to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Josh 24:14-15 NKJ).

The people Joshua was addressing had heard of the great work God had done for them. They also had witnessed his powerful hand in their lives. Joshua’s challenge was for the people to serve the Lord and not the ‘gods’ around them or those ‘gods’ their fathers served in past generations. In this challenge Joshua noted that the people had a choice of which God to serve. He also reminded them of the blessings God would give to those faithful to him. But, the choice was still theirs.

We have the choice too. We can serve God, we can be disciples of Jesus, and we can walk in the path the Holy Spirit directed the apostles and prophets to write for us - or we can choose to serve some other ‘god’. There is no profit in serving any other ‘god’. Anything we serve, apart from the true and living God, is vain and senseless. We choose to serve the Lord, and begin that service as we become Christians. But each day we must also choose the good. Satan tempts and beguiles. Choose the Lord.

Joshua was confident in the Lord. He and his house would serve the Lord regardless of what others chose. We need to have that same conviction. In life we will grieve over those who have given up their faith. We will struggle with those who are struggling to overcome Satan. But we must always be as Joshua. We must determine that we will be faithful even if others are not.

Joshua’s challenge is as valid today as when he spoke. When we take the challenge and serve the Lord we enjoy every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places (Eph. 1:3). Choose to serve the Lord! Show others the way!

Bulletin.  February 8, 2009

Several of us are reading through the Bible together this year. We are not reading the same passages each day, but we are reading the same Bible books through each month. All are encouraged to read with us. In January we read Genesis, Matthew and Psalm 1-20. If you have not finished those readings, continue with them and when you finish, add February’s. The readings for February are Exodus, Romans and Psalm 21-40.

Make notes with your reading. Think about each passage as you have time. Life will be better as you read scripture.

Greg Weston

"Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things that were heard, lest haply we drift away from them" (Heb. 2:1). Drifting is a slow, often imperceptible movement from one spot to another.. When we drift from things spoken by inspired men, we are drifting into dangerous waters - spiritually speaking.

The drift from scripture has resulted in many different groups claiming to be disciples of Jesus. It is no wonder that some are not interested in the Christian faith when they see the confusion and contradictions which exist among those claiming to follow Jesus. However, this charge cannot be against the Lord or his perfect plan. Our current condition is caused by men. All must return to the will of God, and cease drifting. Our obedience brings blessings from God.

How does one know which teaching is of God, and which is not? The simple answer is that all teaching given in the New Testament, as God’s will, is truth. Every soul has the responsibility of searching for the truth. You should listen to the preacher, but prove all he says by scripture. Learn from the teacher as he presents Bible truth, and study diligently to insure he is right. "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good" (1 Thess. 5:21).

There are some teachings and practices which can easily be measured to determine if a person or group is doing as they should. One is on salvation. Sins are forgiven when one is baptized in water for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38; 1 Pet. 3:21). Those who do not teach and practice this truth are not following the path given in scripture. They have drifted.

God has also revealed that the church is to be overseen by men who meet specific qualifications These men are called bishops, elders, or pastors. They serve as a group, never just one person, and protect the church from spiritual wolves (1 Tim. 3; Tit. 1). A ‘church’ which does not follow this plan is not the church Jesus established.

There are many who ignore or even knowingly reject God’s plan. They have either drifted from truth or were ‘converted’ to that which is error. Remember, all can understand the will of God, but we must have the will to accept his truth and conform to it. Conformity to God’s will insures that we do not drift. It is life-long obedience to the Son of God, and the result is an eternity in his presence.

Christians are to be different than the world. We do not serve ourselves, and we do not serve Satan. Christians are learners of and followers of Jesus - we are disciples. We, therefore, have a different mind, a different attitude toward life. "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God (Rom. 12:2).

Satan will tempt us to adopt the mind and attitude of the world. We must continue to encourage one another to walk with the renewed, spiritual mind and overcome temptation. This mind is seen in different ways.

We will do good to others, without seeking good from them (Luke 6:27-36). This is a very difficult lesson. Many in the world do good to others because they hope to be promoted in the world or receive some favor through that good deed. Christians do good because that is the example Jesus left, and it is our instruction for life.

Christians will be careful about their relationship to wealth. While the world pursues things for pleasure, Christians are [or should be] more careful in what we purchase. We work to control even our desire for things. Remember, one day we will leave this physical world behind. Christians know to store up treasure in heaven!

Christians must live in the world, but are not participants with the evils of the world. We will be tempted, and at times will sin. We are blessed with brothers and sisters to urge us to return and a loving and merciful God who will forgive when we do return.

We have a different mind, because we serve a different Master!

Bulletin.  February 1, 2009

"The Greeks as well as the Jews were wont to use instruments as accompaniments in their sacred songs. Their converts to Christianity accordingly must have been familiar with this mode of singing; yet, it is generally believed that the primitive Christians failed to adopt the use of instrumental music in their religious worship... Basil, indeed, expressly condemns it as ministering only to the depraved passions of men, and must have been led to this condemnation because some had gone astray and borrowed this practice from the heathens."  [John McLintock and James Strong. Ceclopaedia of Biblical, Theological, and Ecclesiastical Literature. Vol. VI (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1876), 759.]

The Catholic Encyclopedia agrees. "For almost a thousand years Gregorian chant, without any instrumental or harmonic addition, was the only music used in connexion (sic) with the liturgy."  [Joseph Otten, "Musical Instruments in Church Services," in Charles G. Herbermann et al. The Catholic Encyclopedia: An International Work of Reference on the Constitution, Doctrine, Discipline, and History of the Catholic Church, Vol. 10. (NY: The Encyclopedia Press, Inc. 1911), 657.]

The New Testament did not authorize the use of the instrument of music with spiritual songs. The quotations above emphasize this truth from the historical view. No man or group of men has authority to change the will of God, so we know we should sing spiritual songs without the instrument to be pleasing to God.

All through the Bible we read of God blessing various people. These blessings are often given after the scriptures specifically speak of the person doing as God instructed. "Noah did according to all that the Lord commanded him" (Gen. 7:5). The blessing? He was saved from the flood water.

Moses was likewise praised for his obedience. "Thus Moses did; according to all that the Lord had commanded him, so he did" (Ex. 40:16). Wouldn’t it be great to have the Lord Himself commend you, tell you that you did well! When you do as the Lord instructs, you know that commendation is there.

On the opposite side is the rejection of man by the Lord. Saul did not do as the Lord instructed. He failed to listen and obey. He was rebuked by Samuel, and was rejected from being king, the position God had given him. Negligence, rejection or both causes one to receive rebuke and rejection from the Lord. We do not want the Lord’s rebuke, we desire the blessing.

Jesus emphasized that not those who cry "Lord, Lord" will be saved, but those who do the will of God (Matt. 7:21-23). Are you following Jesus? Are you studying to learn the will of God, and as you learn are you applying it so you can receive the blessing? To continue in ignorance guarantees disobedience to God. To know his will but failing to follow it is likewise disastrous. However, to learn and do is to obtain the blessing. The will of God often leads us in ways we would not choose ourselves. But to follow the will of God is always best, without exception.

God desires to bless all. But, even though all are blessed to some degree, such as life itself, there are special blessings reserved only for the faithful. Obtain the blessing of God! Obey Him!

Bulletin.  January 25, 2009

This Tuesday is a historical occasion for the United States. We will have a change in our presidency. Barak Obama will take the oath of office and become our president. Joseph Biden will take the oath of office and become our vice president. With those changes are numerous other changes in the highest offices of our land. Remember the instruction from God. "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God" (Rom 13:1).

Every four years we have this same type of history making activity. In every case, let us pray for the president and those in authority. Let us submit to them, for this is the will of God.

Greg Weston

Jesus deserves to be first in each of our lives. He should already be first in the life of the Christian, but we know that Christians do have challenges with always putting Him first. He should be first in the heart of the non-Christian, and when that happens their first step will be to become a Christian. One is a Christian when their sins are forgiven them, which happens when they are baptized in water for the forgiveness of sins [Rom. 6:3, 4; Acts 2:38]. The faith one has to become a Christian is the same faith which keeps Jesus first in our lives.

When Jesus is first we do not have to struggle with certain decisions. For instance, when the time to assemble with the saints [Christians] comes there will not be a decision on whether to attend or not. That decision was made when the person became a disciple of Jesus, and Christian. Our commitment to become a Christian is our commitment to obey Jesus. It is He who commands us to assemble, so the decision to assemble with the church is made at our conversion (Heb. 10:24, 25). This is true in every area of life. When we know the will of God, we will follow his path.

When Jesus is first we will be protected against sin. This is not to say that the Lord will not allow us to be tempted. Nor is it to say that when temptation comes He will supernaturally protect us from it. It means that we will recognize what is right and what is wrong and in that knowledge we will be able to overcome sin. And, when we are weak and fall to sin, we know that we can confess that sin to God, repent of it and in prayer for forgiveness God will freely forgive (Acts 8:22; 1 John 1:5). The blessing of knowing sin and overcoming it will grow as we grow in our knowledge and in our faith.

When Jesus is first, life is easier. We follow his perfect plan, the New Testament. Our life is marked with godliness and commitment to Him. We will grow in wisdom and will be lights to the world. There are great blessings in Jesus when we follow Him in all things. Put Jesus first, always and in all things.

God promised to raise up "a prophet like you" (Deut. 18:18). This promise, however, is restrictive. The promise was given to Moses for the benefit of all Israel, yes even all the world. When God gave Moses the law He also promised a coming prophet to whom all the people were to listen and obey.

Moses was one of the great prophets of the Old Testament. God worked through him to deliver Israel from their slavery to the Egyptians. Through Moses, God guided Israel through the ‘wilderness’ for forty years. He spoke to Israel through Moses and gave the law to that, and each succeeding, generation. Moses was a great prophet, but there was a greater prophet coming.

The prophet like Moses was (is) Jesus. Jesus, however, was greater than Moses. This is evident in the promise to Moses. For the one promised through Moses was to replace Moses. No longer were they to "hear Moses" and the law he delivered, but they were to listen to this prophet who was (is) like Moses. Peter boldly states that Jesus is the prophet like Moses (Acts 3:19-26, note vs. 22). When Jesus went to the cross and died for our sins, He fulfilled the law given through Moses and mediated the new covenant (Heb. 9:15). Jesus is the prophet God promised.

When you read the New Testament you do not find the anticipation of yet another prophet. There were prophets after Jesus ascended to heaven, but they were ‘mouth pieces’ for Him. Jesus did not teach there would be yet another prophet, but taught that He was the only way to the Father (Jn 14:6) and that one day He will return and judge all people (Matt. 25:31-46). Any person who claims to be equal to or in place of Jesus is a false teacher. Jesus was a prophet, but more than a prophet. He is the Son of God. Jesus’ word is the final message of God.

Bulletin.  January 18,2009

Desire is still a root of many problems. The desire to be wealthy brings severe problems to many (1 Tim. 6:10). The desire for possessions can cause one to lose their soul (1 John 2:15-17). The lust of the flesh has burned the souls of men and women through the ages, and their families. King David is a notable man of God who fell. He repented and was forgiven, but all must exercise caution!

Desire for righteousness is to be praised. Desire for that which is forbidden is to be avoided. Satan does tempt us. Resist him and he will flee (Jms. 4:7).

Greg Weston

God’s power and love are demonstrated in His creative work. Consider both.

God’s power is emphasized when He spoke, and all things were made. Day by day, for six days, God determined, He spoke and it was. That is power! When He spoke He set all things in motion for ‘nature’. He is the author of the natural order, but He did it supernaturally. The worlds were made from things which did not exist (Heb. 11:1). Again, the power of God!

God’s love is seen in the creation of humanity. It is man and woman who was made, and continues to be, in the image of God. That uniqueness shows the love of God. The creation of the first pair, Adam and Eve, in a perfect environment physically and spiritually also shows His love. He made them perfect and put them in the perfect position.

God’s power is seen in His control of Satan. After Satan, in the form of a serpent, deceived Eve who also led Adam to sin, God pronounced a curse upon the serpent and Satan He also gave the promise of victory to all humanity, which reflects His love. Ultimately we can win through Jesus, the Son of God. Heaven can be our home if we follow Him who is all powerful and all loving.

Remember the power of God. He was able to create the world, and is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think (Eph. 3:20). He is also able to keep the unrighteous under punishment for eternity. We do not want to partake in that part of his power (2 Pet. 2). Combining the power of God and the love of God we know that nothing can separate us from Him(Rom. 8:31-39). We can chose to ignore Him, deny Him and walk away from Him. But, if we choose to be a child of God He will provide for us in His power and love. Do not be deceived by any, but simply and fully follow God. Show others the way, giving them the example in your life of righteousness. Heaven awaits those who serve God.

Adam and Eve were the first couple, the first family. Their family provides lessons for ours.

First, a new family is born when a man and woman marry. The man is to leave his father and mother and cleave to his wife (Gen. 2:24). Too often trouble brews in the home because either the husband or wife does not truly ‘leave’ father and mother. And, many families are troubled by fathers or mothers who insist on involving themselves in the family. Turmoil at home comes from the failure of a new family truly being born.

Second, God joins them together. When a man and woman are married, they are joined one to the other in the sight of God. This, of course only happens when God authorizes it. Jesus emphasized the seriousness of marriage to God. Read Matthew 19:1-9 very carefully. This instruction applies to everyone. And, true happiness comes from abiding within this law.

In the first family there was order. Man was first created, and the man was to rule over the woman (Gen. 3:16). This law continues. The husband is the head of the wife, and the wife is to be in subjection to her husband (Eph. 5:22, 23). This is not popular in our world. And, there is much repentance which needs to take place with both men and women. The solution to marital problems is to return to the Biblical pattern.

It is sad that people today seem to ‘chase the wind’ seeking a relationship like those romantic visions seen in movies or read about in novels. Men and women need to choose their mate wisely, live with them according to the pattern of God and help one another prepare for heaven (and yes, romance between them is good). This is the will of God. Your happiness will be found in living after this pattern for marriage. It is not easy, for we all make mistakes, but it is best.

Bulletin.  January 11, 2009

In 2009, the Lord willing, I will be reading through the entirety of the Bible again. You are invited to read with me. We will read selections from the Old Testament and New Testament each month. Sunday evening lessons will reflect the texts of our reading, either from the Old Testament or New Testament. The last Sunday evening of the month I will survey the Old Testament readings for the month.

For January we will be reading Genesis, Psalms 1-20 and Matthew. You are free to divide the reading as you desire, but are encouraged to read every day. If you read 3 chapters a day, and one Psalm a day, you will finish these readings before the end of the month. But, since this plan begins for all on the 4^th, you will need to keep that schedule to finish. It is my hope that every member of the congregation will take this challenge, and be present for the lessons covering this material.

Greg Weston

To be faithful to Jesus, we must pay our taxes. And, we must pay them fairly. When asked about paying taxes, Jesus told the Jews of his day, "Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" (Matt 22:21). And, Paul instructed the Romans to pay taxes (Rom. 13:6).

Our tax codes have many details which make it challenging to keep all the laws and allowances in focus. Many of us hire professionals to help file our tax papers. But whether you hire someone or do it yourself, you are responsible for the details on the forms. Oversight can happen, and when it does you need to correct it. Intentional misrepresentation, though, is not only illegal by our civil law it is also being unfaithful to the Lord. To be faithful to Jesus we must report our taxes in accordance with the laws of the land truthfully. File tax papers so that when you send them you know you have filed them accurately.

Income taxes are not the only taxes to be paid. Businesses pay unique taxes. Property owners pay property taxes. Heirs pay inheritance taxes. The laws are different for different circumstances, but the faithful Christian will be certain that he or she has fulfilled the tax requirements in each case. Honesty at all times will please the Lord and insure one stays out of trouble.

Paul reminds us of the benefit of taxes. "For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God's ministers attending continually to this very thing. Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor" (Rom 13:6-7). Our taxes provide the benefits of law enforcement and many, many other benefits. While we may not agree with all the government does, and how they do it, our agreement is not required for us to pay taxes. Did the Lord agree with Caesar? Did Paul agree with Rome’s leaders? They did not. But, both teach us to pay taxes, so let us pay faithfully.

Bulletin.  January 4, 2009

Greg Weston

A trip to the lake with a rod and reel in hand is a waste of time. The same person could spend that time in much more profitable ventures. To waste time is bad stewardship, for we only have a limited amount of time. It is not possible to stretch an hour or a day, they are constant. Do not waste time.

Each of us have personal judgments on how to spend time. The opening sentence of this article likely upset some who enjoy fishing. And, they will tell you of the benefits of fishing. Some of them would say time spend reading a book is a waste, or time spent playing games is of no profit. The point to consider is that we must all determine which activities are deserving of our attention. Rest and relaxation can be profitable, if they must be kept in perspective.

God has determined that each one is to provide for himself or herself, and others (Eph. 4:29). A man with a family is to provide for his family, even extended members of the family (1 Tim. 5:1-15). Time must be taken to provide. But what is the appropriate level of family provision? Some seem to think that success is measured by what one possesses. They forget the wealth of the poor beggar, Lazrus. He begged from others for food, but his eternal home is with God. While we should work to provide for self and others, let us balance time well even at the expense of the ‘new and improved’ possessions.

The husband and wife have responsibilities which require time. The father and mother must give time to the nurturing of their children. Spiritual training is the most important task of parenting. When we train our children in spiritual truths we provide the godly path for all of life. Scripture gives the proper pattern for every area of life. See Eph. 5:22 - 6:4; 2 Pet. 1:3; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17.

Each one must remember that time must first be given to God. Time must be set apart for study. Time for meditation upon God and his will for us is vital for life. And, putting the assembly of the saints first on the demands of our time is pleasing to God. As we plan our days, spiritual growth is the first priority in every day.

Time is a limited commodity. We have the joy, and the responsibility of making the best of our time. Take time to plan how best to spend your time. Make the necessary adjustments to be a better steward of time.

God’s plan for you is for you to be a faithful member of the body of Christ, which is the church (Eph. 1:22, 23). Faithfulness includes every part of the body working to build the body (Eph. 4:16). There are many opportunities to serve in this congregation, and your help is needed.

You are able to encourage brothers and sisters. An obvious place for this encouragement is during the assembly of the church. In fact, that is one purpose of the assembly (Heb. 10:24, 25). Make specific plans to be at every assembly, and in each class. You will be strengthened, and you will strengthen others. But, in addition to this, make your own plan to encourage others. Our younger members can be a great help to our elder members. Drop in and offer help. Even if no specific help is asked for, your visit is a help to them. You are building the body. Make a list of those you visit, and when. Try to visit varied members of the congregation. Use your home to be hospitable to others and encourage others. You will be surprised at how much your simple acts of encouragement help others.

In addition, invite people to study the Bible with you, and to come to our Bible classes and assemblies. Always speak positively. If there is something which you may be less than excited about, do not speak of it negatively. When you are positive it sends a good message to others. And, since we are a blessed congregation, we can be positive about our work for the Lord.

There are many other areas to serve, including physical work around our facilities. But in our service, let us focus on the spiritual needs of one another. Everyone needs to be encouraged!

December 28, 2008

Greg Weston

Ananias encouraged Saul to obey the Lord. He said, "And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Acts 22:16). What was Saul’s response? He was baptized without delay!

Saul, also called Paul, did not worry about family being present and his baptism. Baptism is not a ceremony, it is the time when the Lord forgives one’s sins (Acts 2:38). Without forgiveness, one’s soul is lost. A person should never delay, and those who are teaching them should encourage them to prepare to meet God as soon as they know they believe and repent. Knowledge of what one is doing and what is required of them in faithful living is sufficient knowledge for them to be baptized. One does not need to understand all things before baptism. And, since baptism is the time one is forgiven, the idea some have of waiting till they are ‘good enough’ for baptism is misdirected. One is never ‘good enough’ apart from the grace and mercy of God. And that is what is received when one is forgiven of sins at baptism.

Paul did not worry about his obedience reflecting poorly on those he loved. Some have said, "If I am baptized, that will mean my loved ones who have not been baptized will be lost." Remember, the condition of others is not affected directly by the obedience of the sinner. If anything, the only effect will be to give a good example and be able to instruct the other.

In addition, Paul did not allow his past confidence to hinder his obedience. Paul had persecuted the church. In fact, the Lord told Saul that in persecuting the church he was persecuting Him! Paul had been confident that he was doing the will of God. He would have declared confidently that he was faithful to God and was the blessed recipient of all God’s blessings. But, his confidence did not mean he was saved. The Lord rebuked him. Ananias told him to be baptized to wash away his sins. Paul was a sinner! He then counted all those things which had been his confidence as loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus (Phil. 3:1-14).

Paul did not give the excuses many give today. We all need to consider Paul’s example again (1 Cor. 11:1), and follow his life of obedience to Jesus!

Jesus is the head of the church (Eph. 1:22, 23), and has all authority (Matt. 28:18). In order for us to enjoy salvation, we must obey him. He is the author of eternal salvation to the obedient (Heb. 5:9).

To be obedient to Jesus, we must obey the laws of our nation. Jesus tells us, through Paul, to be subject to the civil government (Rom. 13:1-7). When we violate civil law, we are disobedient to the Lord! Even the ‘small’ violations will condemn us. We need to give attention to the law of our land, whichever country we live in.

United States citizens are required to obey the laws of all nations we may visit. This means that if we violate the law in another nation, we violate the law of our land, and thereby violate the law of Christ. Of course we can shorten the sentence above and recognize that we are under the laws of the government of any country where we are located.

The Christian, then, will give diligence to learn the laws of the land and live within those laws. The only time we are exempt is when the law of the land contradicts God’s law. If a civil government tells us we cannot assemble to worship, we must violate that law for God’s law is higher (Acts 5:29; Heb. 10:24, 25). But, we must be careful that we do not try to justify disobedience to civil law in a misapplication of scripture.

Remember the words of Jesus. Those who do the will of God are those who will be in heaven (Matt. 7:21-23).

Bulletin.  December 21, 2008

Greg Weston

    Many of us have suffered financially in our current economy. Some are even in need. But when we   hear of our brothers and sisters in other parts of the world, we are reminded again of our great blessings! And, we can be a blessing to others!

There are places on earth where our brothers and sisters face the same life challenging situations today which were faced by early disciples. As Saul breathed threatening and slaughter against the disciples, the church continued to grow because the disciples continued to proclaim the will of God and live faithful lives. A simple reading of Acts 3-9 demonstrates their faithfulness. Contemplate those passages. Be grateful to God that we are able to meet without fear and live faithful lives that are often praised by those around, including our government! But this blessing is not found in every place.

News from other places demonstrates continued difficulties around the world. One brother does a good work in another part of the world, and has become a valued source in preaching there. However, when you read if his reports you will find no references of the congregations or the members. Why? To list them specifically could cause them physical harm.

A recent mailing spoke about a preacher who is native to his land and the challenges he faces. His house, which is also the place the church assembles was burned. He was beaten first by a different religious group, then by a policeman. He was told that if he continued, they would rape his daughter. After being released by the police, he could not find a place to stay - even with extended family. He and his family relocated to be assisted by a brother in another area of their country. Even with all this, our brother is committed to continue preaching the gospel of Christ.

The world is not always friendly to children of God. We live in the world and give light to it through our lives, but our citizenship is in heaven. May God bless those who have such great challenges. And, may we be willing agents through whom God works. We are blessed abundantly. Are we using our blessings for God’s purposes?

"And the LORD God said, "It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him" (Gen 2:18).

There is strength in numbers. What one can do, two can accomplish more efficiently and wisely. Where one is weak, the other can complement him or her and through their joint participation their goals are accomplished more effectively.

"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken" (Eccl 4:9-12).

It is important for us to note that not just any ‘two’’ will bring the desired result. We need to keep the right company. Evil companionship corrupts good morals (1 Cor. 15:33). Solomon encouraged his son to not follow sinners (Prov. 1:10-16). To be strong, we need time with godly people.

We need each other. Each one is tempted to do evil. That evil includes neglect of spiritual growth. When we are together we can encourage. With our fellowship we help our brothers and sisters identify and resist evil. Our assemblies and class times help in overcoming evil, but there are days between. A good encouraging visit goes a long way in living the faithful life. Even a brief call or a written note lifts a person’s load You need others, and others need you. Will you accept their encouragement? Will you help bear their burdens so they will have the assurance of a home in heaven? We do need each other!

Bulletin.  December 14, 2008

One problem of youth is shortsightedness. Too many times the ‘here and now’ takes priority. The wise youth is the one who looks at life from the viewpoint of eternity. Even with life still before them, at least statistically, the young person should consider the end of life. At the conclusion of life, what will they have accomplished? This consideration should be given at each stage of life.

What do you want to look back on your life and see? And, what benefit will it bring? If you think looking back on a life of ease and prosperity is all there is to living, then you will one day look back with emptiness. For the day will come when you will wonder why it was important, considering you will leave it all behind. But, if your goal is to leave a spiritual legacy of serving the Lord faithfully regardless of physical conditions, then at the conclusion of life you can rejoice that others have been blessed by your living and God has been glorified.

What is your desire? How are you pursuing it?

Greg Weston

On December 7^th, 1941 our nation was attacked by the Japanese at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. This attack caused the United States to enter the second world war. It was a horrible event in our history, but one whose significance is being forgotten. Like the clarion call of "Remember the Alamo" the recollection of Pearl Harbor and what it meant is quickly slipping in the pages of history to be read by students who have a growing remoteness to the event. Each nation has dates and events which carry significant meaning to its citizens, and with each passing decade of life there is a change of attitude toward those events.

When we consider significant events of past years our attitude toward each one does change. However, there is one event in the past which should always remain clear in our minds. That is the crucifixion of Jesus on the cross. That singular act of unjust cruelty should never be forgotten. They were not crucifying a criminal, but the only begotten Son of God. The crucifixion of Jesus speaks volumes to the world. Too many, though, refuse to listen.

The crucifixion of Jesus was not a secret. It was foretold by Jesus himself, as well as prophets which preceded him. Isaiah spoke of his death (Is. 53) and David spoke of his resurrection (Ps. 16). It was according to the determinate council of God that Jesus go to the cross and shed his blood. There was one purpose to his sacrificial deed - the salvation of our souls. With this one action God could justly forgive our sins, and by Jesus’ resurrection we have hope! On the cross Jesus paid the price of our wickedness. Let us remember it always and give honor to the God of glory for his love, praise his Son Jesus for his sacrifice, and respect the Holy Spirit for inspiring the Bible writers who give us this knowledge.

While verbal praise and glory is excellent, the faithful life of the Christian is the glorification God seeks. This faithfulness is walking in the path he has given us, as revealed in the Bible. While we study the entire Bible, of particular importance is the New Testament. The Old Testament concluded at the cross when it’s purpose was fulfilled and the New Testament was mediated by the blood of Jesus.

There are significant events in the past which call for action. The most singularly important event is the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. On that fact we must act!

Bulletin.  December 7, 2008

"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Tim 2:15).

Diligence is a key to spiritual growth. Diligence is earnest effort. Spiritual growth does not come accidentally. We must give attention to our reading and study. We can understand the Bible, and must be of one judgment (1 Cor. 1:10). Be diligent.

To be approved to God we must rightly divide the word of truth. We need to pay attention to what is said, and apply it to our lives. It is not difficult to understand the teachings of scripture. Consider these examples. We know the fruit of the spirit, and can add these to our life (Gal. 5:22-24). We can understand the work of the flesh, and must avoid them (Gal. 5:19-21). We know the Lord instructs us to assemble on the first day of the week, and what we are to do as we assemble (Heb. 10:24, 25; 1 Cor. 11, 14, 16). When we rightly divide the word of truth we understand and we apply. Then we are right with God!

Greg Weston

"For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. Therefore I urge you, imitate me. For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach everywhere in every church" (1 Cor 4:15-17).

The apostle Paul described himself as a father to the Corinthian Christians and to Timothy. This was a reference to his work among the Corinthians, converting them to Christ. He, through his preaching and teaching, begot them in the faith. And, with Timothy he was as gentle and instructive as a father. These references are focused on the actions of Paul toward others, but not on a title he wore. We do not find a reference in the New Testament to a person being called "Father" in the sense of a title. In fact, Jesus forbids one person calling another "Father"as a religious title. "But you, do not be called 'Rabbi'; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ" (Matt 23:8-10).

We need to follow the same practice of Paul today. While we do not call any person "Father" we do recognize that we are ‘fathered’ by certain ones. And, as Christians we are to ‘parent’ others, as we teach them the gospel and sound doctrine. This is not to claim authority over them, but to emphasize the love and care we have for them. In our love and care for one another, as brothers and sisters, we will ‘bear one another’s burdens’ (Gal. 6:1). We will provide what is best for them, encouraging them in spiritual growth. And, as we all grow together we will look forward to being with the Lord forever (1 Thess. 4:17-18).

Let us be ‘fathers’ or ‘mothers’ in the faith toward others. And, in all things let us be faithful to our Heavenly Father.

"Then one said to Him, "Lord, are there few who are saved?" And He said to them, "Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able" (Luke 13:23-24).

Jesus did not teach that all will be saved. He died on the cross so that any person who obeys him can be saved, but he did not say that all will be saved. He spoke of the narrow gate through which each one must enter. This narrow gate is the will of God, the inspired message which Jesus gave to all humanity in the pages of the New Testament. The Old Testament prepared for Jesus and his covenant, but it is the New Testament which is the standard of judgment for every person living today (see John 12:48). Each one can enter, but Jesus tells us that many refuse to enter (see also Matt. 7:13, 14).

People have long desired to change the will of God. People from Paul’s day to our’s have tried to explain away simple teachings of scripture. Anything from the point at which Jesus promises to forgive our sins to his command to "love your enemies" have been points of disagreement (see Acts 2:38, 41; Matt. 5:44). The teachings of the Lord are not difficult to understand, but many have refused to follow them. Oddly, many have taught that one does not have to obey Jesus to enjoy the blessings he describes. But Jesus is the author of eternal salvation to all who obey him (Heb. 5:9). He said to enter the kingdom we must do the will of the Father in heaven (Matt. 7:21). Yes, there is a specific path every person must follow to have the blessings described by the Lord and his apostles. That path is given in the pages of the New Testament. Consider this narrow gate and enter it to be saved.

Bulletin.  Nov. 30, 2008

The law given by Moses directed every Israelite [Jew] to observe the Sabbath Day. The law of Christ does not require an observance of the Sabbath. In fact, we are to let no person judge us concerning a Sabbath (Col. 2:16).

Some call Sunday the Christian Sabbath and urge people to rest on the first day like the Lord instructed them to rest on the seventh. But, you cannot find an inspired instruction which supports this idea. The Sabbath was completely done away with, and no part of it can be bound on those of the Christian age.

We do, however, learn from the Sabbath. We read of the Lord’s displeasure when Israel did not observe the Sabbath, and must conclude that he is greatly displeased when his children do not assemble on the first day as he has instructed. This principle learned from the Old Testament can be applied to specifics of the covenant of Christ.

Greg Weston

Education is expensive! Every class requires some type of financial support. But, through the generosity of many there is financial aid available for our education, and some educational opportunities are available ‘tuition free’. This is the case of an education in Bible. The most valuable education in the world can be obtained without charging each student who participates.

Our Campus Bible Ministry has offered, and will continue to offer, courses during each college quarter. The benefit to these studies is local participation and an ability to tailor classes to the needs of local students. There is no tuition charged for these classes.

And, we must never forget the great blessing of the congregation’s education program. We have the ability to provide quality teachers for every age group. Students are able to grow in their understanding of scripture, God’s revelation to humanity, through these classes. There is no tuition charged for these classes either.

While there are other educational opportunities, these three opportunities are open to each one. Every member of the congregation is encouraged to use these opportunities for your spiritual growth. And, our friends and neighbors can also participate in these classes too.

There are many disciplines of study, but only one study provides us with an understanding of God and his purpose for each of us. This is the study of the Bible. If you are not using these resources, I urge you to begin today!

There are times when one might be able to get the job done without every detail, but not always. If you are having surgery you want the surgeon to have all the details. If you are building a home you want the contractor to understand all your wishes. As we build our lives, the Lord wants us to have all the details, and he has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3). It is there, we just need to read and apply it zealously.

We must make certain that we have all the details on what God tells us. This means we must read and study the entire Bible. All passages on a given topic must be considered. Consider the following passages concerning one event during Jesus’ betrayal.

"And behold, one of them that were with Jesus stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and smote the servant of the high priest, and struck off his ear" (Matt. 26:51).

"But a certain one of them that stood by drew his sword, and smote the servant of the high priest, and struck off his ear" (Mk 14:47).

"And a certain one of them smote the servant of the high priest, and struck of his right ear" (Lk 22:50).

"Simon Peter therefore having a sword drew it, and struck the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. Now the servant’s name was Malchus" (Jn 18:10).

Compare the passages. Underline details which are unique to each verse. With this simple exercise we are reminded of the need to study every passage to know God’s will for our lives. While this is a narrative, other passages give instructions for living. Let us learn, apply and proclaim the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). Then we will glorify God and be pleasing to him. Salvation is given to those who obey (Heb. 5:9).

Bulletin.  Nov. 23, 2008

Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men–as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God. Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king" (1 Pet 2:13-17).

There is only one circumstance when we are excused from obeying the law of the president, the law of the land. That one time is when civil law clearly contradicts divine law. Read Acts 4:19, 20; 5:29. Our obedience to the law of the land is a measure of our righteousness. Be careful what you say and do.

Greg Weston

The ‘constitution’ of Christ is both living and unalterable. It is the highest law of the world, not just a particular geographical region. Jesus gave the law through a mixture of oral and written revelation during those first decades of the church’s existence. This law was committed to writing in that first century and abides with us to this day.

"For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart" (Heb 4:12). Note the word living. While some believe a ‘document’ is only living when it is changeable, this document is ‘living’ because it is divine, is complete and never needs to be changed. It never needs changed because it is, has been and always will be perfect (Jas. 1:25).

The New Testament is different than the United States constitution. The latter is a law written by men. These were wise men, to the point that they recognized that the law would need to change with changes of society. It was not perfect. The United States constitution is alterable, and has been altered. The constitution itself authorizes and directs those later changes. While we do not always agree with these changes, or the interpretations of some of the judges, it is the law of the land to observe. But, the New Testament is unalterable. This again shows the wisdom of God is greater than the ‘wisdom’ of men. Indeed, his ways are higher than our ways as the heavens are higher than the earth (Is. 55:9).

There is an application for each one. We have a responsibility to know and understand the law of God that we might obey it and be right with God, through the sacrifice of Jesus His Son. Submission is the primary action we have toward that law. However, as citizens of the United States we have the responsibility to submit to current law, but we also have the legal right to work to change it. That change must be done legally, and within the principles of scripture. One of those principles is to not get entangled in the affairs of the world (2 Tim. 2:4). Let us remember to always put the Lord first and never lose focus of our commitment to Him. Then we can work, if we choose, to change the laws of the land.

While human laws do change, the law of Christ is a living and unalterable covenant. We submit to Him first, then to the civil authority.

The Bible does speak of a !,000 year reign of Jesus (Rev. 20). But since Revelation is filled with signs and symbols, we must ask if that 1,000 years is literal or figurative. A great aid in determining whether it is literal or figurative is a comparison of other details of the kingdom with this point.

Jesus told those of his day that they would not die before they had seen the kingdom come with power (Mk 9:1). After his resurrection he promised power to the apostles, and told them to stay in Jerusalem till it was given to them (Lk 24:49). Did Jesus tell the truth? Yes. They received that power when the Holy Spirit came upon them, as recorded in Act 2 (see the promise of Acts 1:8). On that day the kingdom was established.

Jesus said his kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36). His kingdom is a spiritual kingdom rather than a physical kingdom. The anticipation of a physical kingdom on earth does not match Jesus’ description of his kingdom.

The apostle Paul said he had been translated into the kingdom (Col. 1:13). And, John said he was a partaker in the tribulation and the kingdom (Rev. 1:5, 9). Since these two men were in the kingdom, the teaching that the kingdom is yet future from our time is in error.

This whole scenario tells us that the 1,000 years of the reign of Jesus is not a literal number. The kingdom has been in existence for nearly 2,000 years. What then does the 1,000 years indicate? The number 10 indicates "fullness, totality, completeness," and 1,000 is the superlative of 10 and refers to the "manifold fulness."* The 1,000 year reign, then, is the unshakeable kingdom of Christ (see Heb. 12:28). This kingdom will last for the entirety of the New Testament age and then be delivered up to the Father (1 Cor. 15:24).

*Milton S. Terry, Biblical Hermeneutics: A Treatise on the Interpretation of the Old and New Testaments (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Book House, nd) pp. 390, 484.

John J. Davis, Biblical Numerology: A Basic Study of the Use of Numbers in the Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1968) p. 122.

Homer Hailey. Revelation: An Introduction and Commentary (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1979) p. 394.

Bulletin.  Nov. 16, 2008

Abusing Saturday night will bring great challenge to Sunday morning. Too many view Saturday as the time to indulge personal desires. Even for those not involved in revelry can unwittingly let this night get out of hand.

Saturday nights are a vital part of our preparation for Sunday. Take control and make the adjustments needed so you are able to worship God and encourage brothers and sisters on Sunday. Prepare your clothes early on Saturday evening. Spend some time with family - not watching TV. Pray, read, think on spiritual matters and make plans to encourage others on Sunday. Go to bed at a reasonable hour and be rested on Sunday.

Saturday night is a valuable time to prepare for Sunday. With proper preparation Sunday morning will be a blessing for all!

Greg Weston

The New Testament tell us that we should not murder. While the words "You shall not murder" are not precisely found, the prohibition against murder is included in the law of Christ. John declared, "Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him" (1 John 3:15; comp. Rom. 13:9). Murder is sinful!

John reminds us that sin begins before the actual murder of another, the actual taking of life. To hate a person is murder. Hate should not fill the heart of the Christian, and must be repented of and forgiveness must be requested. Our heart needs to be pure of these evil thoughts. This is one reason a person should also be very careful in what they read, watch on television or at the movies and even the video games they play. We must protect our hearts, and the hearts of those young people who know us and are influenced by us.

If hating one makes that person a murderer in the sight of God, then certainly the action of murder must be understood as sinful in the sight of God. God’s attitude can be seen in his relationships with those of the Old Testament era. God told Noah, "Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man his blood shall be shed: for in the image of God He made man" (Gen. 9:6). God views murder as a capital crime, a crime demanding the death of the murderer. While some may object to this, remember that the holy God is declaring righteous punishment to the one who has unrighteously taken the life of one made in His image. This punishment declares the nature of the sin committed. Murder is abominable to God.

Now consider very carefully how God views the murder of an infant. In this case we have the problem compounded. Not only do we have a person murdering the one made in the image of God, we have a person taking the life of one who is pure in the sight of God. God expected, and expects his saints to care for the fatherless and widows (Isa. 1:17; Jas. 1:27). But many do not even give consideration to the heartless, selfish slaughter of millions of precious, sinless infants in our day. Mothers hire medical professionals to murder their babies, while the precious ones are still in the womb! They ought to be ashamed of themselves! And, certain birth control practices are no less than controlled acts of murder - as they sever the child from the womb and allow them to die from lack of nutrients from their mother. Yes, abortion in any form is murder! We must speak to this problem. We must remind them of this sin, and remove our support of it in every way possible.

God has blessed his children, and has offered this same blessing to all humanity. The greatest blessing is salvation through His only begotten son, Jesus the Christ (John 3:16; Rom. 5:6-9). With that salvation comes every spiritual blessing in the heavenly place, when one is in Christ (Eph. 1:3). One of those blessings is the path of life to follow. We are not left wondering how our life should be lived, for each page of the New Testament reveals the model for life. And, Jesus Himself was the model for our life. For God has determined that we should be conformed to the image of Jesus (Rom. 8:29).

The image of Jesus, the pattern of life that he lived, is revealed in the four gospels, after previewed in the Old Testament and then reviewed in the New. We cannot be born of a virgin, nor can we die for the salvation of the world. But, we are to live as Jesus lived.

Jesus provided for the physical needs of others. He fed the five thousand! But, since he has not given us that miraculous power he does not expect us to do exactly the same. He does, however, instruct us to care for the fatherless and widows in their affliction (Jas. 1:27). He does expect us to do good to all men, especially to fellow saints (Gal. 6:10). Are you conformed to His image?

We are to have compassion on others, as Jesus did. His compassion moved him to heal their sick (Matt. 14:14). While we cannot heal miraculously, we can pray for them, visit them to help with their needs and lend them emotional and physical help when we can. Are you conformed to His image? Jesus’ compassion did more than provide for the physical. He had compassion on them in their spiritual condition (Mark 6:34). When we see people who are lost and yet in their sin, are we moved with compassion. Do we see in them an eternal spirit who will answer to the Lord in judgment? Have we in our compassion begun to teach them? This is what Jesus did, are you conformed to His image?

The gospels give us a picture of the life of Jesus. These few examples remind us of the great pattern we have for living. We should read the gospels often, look closely at the life of Jesus and take the needed actions to be conformed to His image. This is God’s purpose for us, and it is our great blessing!

Bulletin.  Nov. 2, 2008

From the beginning God gave the promise of the woman’s seed [descendant] bruising the head of the serpent (Gen. 3:15). When the law was given, Moses spoke of a future prophet like himself to whom the people would hearken (Deut. 18:18-20). The Old Testament anticipates and provides additional details of the life and purpose of Jesus. Central to His purpose was the redemption of the people (Isa. 53).

He did change the world, but he was not a revolutionary. He was obedient to his Father and ours in fulfilling the promise God gave for our redemption, our salvation. Jesus is our Redeemer!

Greg Weston

"For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father" (Rom 8:13-15).

There is no doubt that Paul was inspired by the Spirit of God. So in that direct way he, and the other apostles and prophets, were led by the Spirit.

Paul also taught an indirect leading by the Spirit. When he wrote the Corinthians he expected them to understand that what he wrote was spiritual, was the command of the Lord (1 Cor. 14:37). His letter carried the authority of the Lord because he wrote it as he was led by the Spirit. So, the Corinthians were led by the Spirit through Paul’s letter. This was true even when some of the Corinthians also had the gift of prophecy. It was the misuse of their gifts of prophecy and tongue speaking which the Spirit was correcting through Paul.

Today, when we read scripture we are being led by the Spirit. When Paul tells us to avoid the works of the flesh and defines those works, we are walking by the Spirit when we avoid them. In the same manner, we are walking by the Spirit when we develop the fruit of the Spirit in our lives (see Gal. 5:19-24). You and I have the responsibility to hear and to obey. If we do not hear and obey, then we are resisting the Spirit rather than being led by the Spirit. It is possible for a person to obey in part, but still be resisting the Spirit because he or she fails to obey the teachings of scripture in another area of life. If one avoids the work of the flesh but does not assemble with the saints, that one is resisting the Spirit. They refuse to be led by the Spirit, for the Spirit of God teaches both through scripture.

Take time each day to read, study and meditate on scripture. As you study ask what you need to do, and then do it. In doing so you are being led by the Spirit!

The Lord instructs his church to assemble. The partaking of the Lord’s Supper is done as a body, while we are assembled (1 Cor. 11:17-34). While we are assembled we are to give as we have prospered (1 Cor. 16:1, 2; 2 Cor. 8, 9). These two actions are done as all the members are gathered in the assembly, in church. In addition to these two we are also to sing, pray and hear the word of God preached (1 Cor. 14). These last three are done in the assembly, but can also be done at other times too (compare Jas. 5:16).

These actions are not traditions from men, but they are commands from the Lord Jesus. He guided the apostles and prophets of the early church, through inspiration of the Holy Spirit, in giving us this pattern for our assembly. Each action has a focus on God, but each one also has a relationship with one another. Our singing is to the Lord, and to teach and exhort one another (Eph. 5:19). In prayer we join our hearts joined together in thanks to and petition of our God. The Lord’s supper is a communion both with the Lord, and is done in unity and care for one another (1 Cor. 11:25-33). In each of these actions we worshiping our Father and building up our brothers and sisters.

Consider these points carefully, and take specific notice that in our assembly each one is to be active in worship to God. Each one is also to be concerned for the spiritual welfare of fellow saints. As we fulfill these purposes we will be lifted in our spirit and filled with joy. But, we are not coming for self. So prepare for the assembly well. Forget self, worship God and encourage others. By doing this you will fulfill the purpose Jesus gave for our assembly!

Bulletin.  October 26, 2008

Has God given you authority to change one word in the New Testament, or the Old? No, he has not. And he has given no other person the authority to change the new covenant, the New Testament. The truth Paul stated remains true. There is one body, which is the church.

We are that one body. This is not arrogance, but humility. We have not sought to establish anything beyond the New Testament, but to live in perfect accordance with it. When we teach and practice as the New Testament instructs, then we are the one church which Jesus built. Let us encourage others to this obedience too!

Greg Weston

Each congregation is unique. There are varied talents within congregations which reflect the individuals within the congregation. While congregations around the world, and through every age, must teach and practice the same truths, the abilities of each congregation vary.

Some congregations are very skilled in managing peace and harmony. There is little complaining within the congregation. Often that is because the leaders of the congregation have learned to put each member to work in the kingdom, and the members are of a mind to work. It must also be noted that those congregations have fewer grumblers, hopefully none. Grumbling, murmuring is sinful (1 Cor. 10:10). Rather than grumbling, each one should put their hand to the plow and work. If you see a need, work to present a solution from scripture and be part of the solution. Complaining never helps, considerate and Biblical action always helps. Do remember, however, that verbal concern or opposition to error is not grumbling. But, that too must be done in accordance with scripture.

It should be the goal of every congregation, and is the goal of this congregation, to have every member using their talents and being challenged to grow in their abilities. If you do not feel challenged, speak up. And, when you see a job which needs to be done - work to see that it is done. Do work, in all areas, under the oversight of the leadership of the congregation though. We must work together in faithful service to the Lord.

While there are physical jobs to do, and we need every member’s help, there is always the spiritual. Your spiritual growth is important to the congregation’s strength. Growth includes being active in each Bible class and being present at the assemblies Sunday morning and evening. Adding to these times your personal Bible study will bring great personal strength and will add to the congregation’s strength. We are strong, but we can be stronger.

The Lord went to the cross to purchase our pardon. Through his sacrifice we are saved. Then, just before ascending into heaven to receive his throne, he charged his disciples to preach the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15). This is also the focus of Paul’s comment to the Romans. Salvation is based on Jesus, but how shall they be saved if they do not hear and how shall they hear without a preacher. And, Paul said, "how shall they preach, except they are sent?" (Rom. 10:15)

The apostle wrote to Corinth and further addressed the work of preaching. He told the Corinthians that preachers are to "live of the gospel" (1 Cor. 9:14). The preacher has a choice, as Paul demonstrated in his own life. At times he supported himself and others (Acts 18:3) and other times he received support from congregations (Phil. 4:14-20). It is important to note the role of the church in supporting the preacher. If the Lord ordained that the preacher should live of the gospel, then where is the source of that financial support? The church.

The church receives funds through the contribution on the first day of the week. Each member is to give as they have prospered, and to give liberally (1 Cor. 16:1, 2; 2 Cor. 8, 9). While we know the immediate context was the collection for the poor saints in Jerusalem, this still remains the only divinely ordained means of financing the church. So, each work the Lord has given to the church must come from this collection. And, the church should never use these funds on that which is not a divinely authorized work for the church.

This congregation, through her contributions, ‘sends’ the local preacher into the community. One day, as we grow and mature, we can send preachers to other places also. We long for that day, and work toward it.

For those who have their treasure on earth, these past few weeks have been devastating. There has been a tremendous amount of wealth lost, at least on paper. And for many, it has forced a change of lifestyle or a delay in plans. These difficulties or delays have also affected the actions of those whose treasures are in heaven, but the attitude is different. For the changes of the past several weeks have not dimmed our hope!

God is still in control and loves us today as much as ever. Jesus is still on his throne and rules over all principalities and powers. The confident hope we know because of the Holy Spirit inspired book is still in place. Remember, thieves do not break through or steal our treasure in heaven. Our hope is not left in the hands of men but is in Christ Jesus. Yes, we may have suffered physical loss, but our real treasure gleans as bright as ever! Read Matt. 6:19-34.

Greg Weston

We have entered a season of ‘holidays’ in our nation, and through the world. Many people have lost the sense of what the holiday is about. People often do not know where the holiday originates, nor do the understand the source of the practices of each holiday. As Christians we need to make certain that when we participate in a holiday that we are right with the Lord.

Too many people use scripture to open the door to any type of celebration. They appeal to Paul’s reference to observing days and eating particular foods to ‘authorize’ any type of celebration. But, the Bible student needs to look at those contexts carefully. Paul is not opening a door to every celebration. A large part of his comments are directed to the change from the Mosaic covenant to the covenant of Christ. Those comments focus on the requirements of one divine law which had recently ended and the practice of those specific laws under the covenant of Christ. And when he made mention of the pagan practices, he told them that when a person referred to the pagan understanding that they should not eat the meat which had been sacrificed to a pagan deity and was then sold in the public market. See Romans 14 and 1 Corinthians 10.

Saints living in one culture will often see the inconsistencies of saints living in another culture, but do not see the challenges of their own. Perhaps we can gain from cross-cultural dialogue on these points. We can see our actions through the eyes of others. But we should not have to do that to evaluate the ‘holidays’ in our own culture. Simply ask these questions. First, was the holiday given by God? Second, how do the actions of that ‘holiday’ relate to the instructions of our Lord? We need to consider holidays from costumes worn to the amount of food consumed, and more.

When Paul reflected on his past in the Mosaic covenant he stated that he counted it all loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ (Phil. 3:1-11). We should do the same. Each of us need to evaluate each holiday and practice in the light scripture.

When ‘bad’ things happen people often ask, "Why was I not warned?" When our health suffers, where was the warning? When our economy struggles, where was the warning? When... You get the point.

Too often we ignore the warnings. Warnings often come by means of ‘encouragement’ to do good, because people don’t like to be told what not to do. Isn’t it odd that many who complain about the ‘negative’ of ‘don’t do this’ are often the loudest when the consequences of their actions or another’s action affects them or their loved ones?

So, here is a warning. If you forsake the assembly of the church you have sinned. If you do not repent of that sin and ask forgiveness, you are lost. Read Hebrews 10:24, 25 for confirmation of this warning.

Here is another warning. If you choose as your companions those who live ungodly you will be compromised in your life. There will be constant struggles, and many become reprobate. Read 1 Cor. 15:33for confirmation of this.

And, here is a promise. If you faithfully assemble you will be pleasing to God as you worship in spirit and truth. You will be encouraging your brothers and sisters in their growth. And, you will grow spiritually. See John 4:24; Heb. 10:24, 25.

Here is another promise. If you attend Sunday evening and are present for Bible classes on both Sunday morning and Wednesday evening you will grow spiritually. This is if you come to study and have an intent to learn. In addition, you will help others learn and will encourage them when you are present. These times of worship and study will help you overcome the challenges of life and will enable you to know more about God and his plan for your life.

And, another promise. If you choose as your companions those who are faithful to God, living the life and not simply talking the talk, many temptations of life will never come your way. You will have fewer regrets, and you will grow in faith together.

All of these warnings and promises are in the inspired volume we call the Bible. They have been with us all along. Have we heard? Will we hearken?

Bulletin.  October 12, 2008

Our body shall die, then at the coming of the Lord it shall be raised. Or, if we live till Jesus comes, our body will be changed. Contemplate the words of the inspired apostle concerning our ‘new body’. Think about what a glorious hope God has given us. "So also is the resurrection of the dead. The body is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption. It is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness, it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body" (1 Cor 15:42-44). While we do not know all details, and cannot fully comprehend the power of God in our resurrection, we know that if we life faithful to the Lord our end will be a great blessing! This is the Christian hope!

Greg Weston

The Lord desires that we grow. The inspired apostle reproved the Hebrews for not being mature enough to teach. They had been Christians for a sufficient time that they should have been able to teach others, but were in need of being taught the basic principles of Christ themselves (Heb. 5:10-12). It was a shame for them, and it can be a shame for us. But, we can do better.

Spiritual growth begins with faith, and faith comes by hearing the word of God (Rom. 10:17). God’s instruction for humanity is in the word of God, the Bible, and to grow spiritually we must read and understand it. Planning to study each day is the first step, and setting the time and a place for study is a help to study. We all know that schedules are full, but if we are honest with ourselves we also know that there are things we can rearrange and even eliminate so we can have the time for study. Make the time, set the place, and study for understanding. As you go through the day meditate on what you read earlier. Meditate upon, think about, and diligently consider the will of God. This will bring growth!

An important part of spiritual growth comes from following God’s plan for his church. We are to assemble. In that assembly the five actions of worship are also actions which enable us to encourage others and to be encouraged. We are gathered as members of one body to serve God. This is encouraging. And, as we assemble there are specific actions designed for our growth, our edification. Make assembly, and Bible class, the highest of priorities on your calendar. This is progress toward growth.

As you read, consider the type of attitudes and actions which give praise to God. Incorporate these into your life. This is spiritual growth.

Too many give excuses. Too few plan for their growth. We can grow - will you?

"Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?" (Matt 6:25).

Jesus comforts us in our life, even concerning physical things. He says the Father knows our needs. And, when we read the scripture we have the solution to those needs. We are to work to provide for self and others (Eph. 4:28). God lays the charge to men to provide for their own, which even includes extended family (1 Tim. 5:8). And, God instructs us to give to meet the needs of others (1 Cor. 16:1, 2; 2 Cor. 8, 9). God has provided for our needs, and we are active participants in his provision for ourselves and others.

Jesus also gives us the balance of life. Life is more than physical things. "And He said to them, "Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses" (Luke 12:15). While we must have certain physical things to live, we are not to live to accumulate physical things. There is a balance.

Jesus reminds us of the priority of life. "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you" (Matt 6:33). God is first in our lives. When we live in faith we put away physical anxieties. The riches of this world will rust, be consumed and even be stolen while the spiritual treasure is secure. What a difference in the words of Jesus and the words of men. Serve the Lord with all your heart, and be at peace.

Bulletin.  Oct. 5, 2008

"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people" (Prov 14:34).

A patriotic person desires the best for the nation. The best for any nation is righteousness, for God declares that righteousness exalts the nation.

The church of our Lord is a blessing to every nation. Not because Christians are focused on political, social or economic issues but because we are righteous. Our influence will be felt all around. The simple presence of the church and her focus on her God given mission of preaching the gospel changes the hearts of multitudes. Changed hearts are seen in righteous lives. Righteous lives contribute to exalting nations. While nation building is not the business of the church, each nation is blessed by the church and her work of preaching God’s truths.

Greg Weston

Many identifications which divide Christians in our modern era have no Biblical significance. While one might recognize some profit in political, economic or social designations, as Christians we must understand the need to keep these out of the church.

When disciples of Jesus are gathered together the focus of our attention should be spiritual rather than physical. All the present ills of society have been present in past generations, and will likely exist in future generations. The reason for this is the continued presence of humanity. For varied reasons ‘we’ gather behind these identifications to promote, in our view, the needs of humanity or our own person interests. It will be good for us to remember the words of Paul, and contemplate how we should apply them in our daily lives. "No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier" (2 Tim 2:4). Do not be entangled in worldly affairs!

This congregation is praised for leaving the current political debates out of the assemblies and away from our fellowship, and you are urged to continue! Our focus is not on who the next president will be, or who may be to blame for one issue or another. Our emphasis is on Jesus the Christ. The focus of our attention is getting the saving message of the gospel to the people throughout the world, beginning at our door step. And, the more we focus on spiritual life the easier our physical lives. Remember, our citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20).

It is one of the amazing facts of the Bible that the New Testament rises above the political, the economic and the social concerns of their day. Of course there are references to some of these points, but the focus of the church was on preaching the gospel and the maturing of the saints (Col. 1:19-29). As we continually seek to be the church of the New Testament we too must rise above the issues of our day. As individuals we are free to participate - to a point. However, we must guard against secularizing the church.

Read again the actions of the saints recorded in the book of Acts. Contemplate seriously the letters of the New Testament. Imitate that which is praised and put away that which is condemned. In this God will be pleased and souls will be prepared for judgment. The labels of our nation do not identify us, the name ‘Christian’ is our joy and in wearing it faithfully we glorify God!

"Now therefore, fear the LORD, serve Him in sincerity and in truth, and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the River and in Egypt. Serve the LORD! And if it seems evil to you to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Josh 24:14-15).

Those to whom he was speaking, save Caleb, were under 20 years of age when they left Egypt. Perhaps many of them could not as readily remember all the details in the wilderness. But, they had reminders of these facts just as we have. They could hear it from others. And they, as we can, could also look to the books of Moses, the first five books of the Bible. In these books Moses recorded the great work and law of God.

All of them though had seen the mighty presence of God as He delivered the nations of the land into their hands. They were the blessed recipients of the promise made to Abraham centuries before. These people knew who God was/is. Joshua called on them to put away the gods of the other nations and serve the Lord faithfully. They said ‘Yes’ to the challenge.

Every generation has the same challenge. There are pressures of life for all. Too many of our young, of every generation, go into the world and give up their faith. Some even convince themselves they are faithful while they are living as the world and not as saints. We can know the Lord. We have the record of the actions of God, and know even more of God’s blessings than those of Joshua’s day. Joshua’s words still ring, "Choose you this day whom you will serve!" What is your answer? Does your life reflect the words of your mouth?

Bulletin.  September 21, 2008

"Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need" (Eph 4:28).

It is sinful to steal.

It is right to work. And, this work provides for one’s own needs and the needs of his family (1 Tim. 5:8). Christians are to take care of themselves.

It is right to give to others. Those who are in need, and by implication are doing what they can to provide for themselves, should be aided by the individual Christian.

These instructions are to individuals, not to the church as a body. Are you caring for yourself? Are you providing for those who are not able to take care of themselves? Ideally, each child of God will be seeking ways to help others. It should be something we do without even thinking about it. It is who we are.

Greg Weston

It is the will of God that each Christian be an active member of a local congregation. The only organization authorized by the New Testament is found in the local congregation. Each congregation is to have a plurality of elders overseeing her (Acts 20:17ff; 1 Tim. 3; Tit. 1). These elders are to given answer for those under their care (Heb. 13:17). When there is not a plurality of men qualified to be elders [and qualifications are found in 1 Tim. 3 and Titus 1] a congregation still exists, just those churches in Acts 14 existed before elders were appointed. God intends that his children are faithful in the local congregation.

When we read 1 Corinthians 11, 14, and 16 we find that there are actions expected of Christians as the local congregation is assembled together. Partaking of the Lord’s supper is to be done when the church is assembled (1 Cor. 11:17ff). There is no authority to partake of it outside the assembly. While the church is assembled, saints are to participate in singing and praying. Disciples of Jesus are also to participate in hearing and applying the spoken word of God (1 Cor. 14). And, when the church is assembled each one who has prospered is expected to give as they have prospered (1 Cor. 16:1, 2). The contribution is to be collected when the church is assembled. Can a person be faithful to the Lord if they refuse any of the above, or neglect these God given responsibilities? The answer is no, we cannot.

In addition, each Christian is to work to encourage and build up the congregation. This is the encouragement of 1 Corinthians 12 and Ephesians 4:16. We cannot sit back and let others do the calling, visiting and seeing to the needs of others. Each one has the responsibility toward all others. If one thinks there is not sufficient opportunity for fellowship, they can both speak with the congregational leaders and can open their home to encourage members of the congregation. Each of us can take time to visit one another, to call one another, to check on one another. And, each work of the congregation is a work each one can be involved in either directly or indirectly. While a man cannot attend a ladies class taught by a sister, he can encourage all sisters to attend and make certain child care is provided for those with children.

It is God’s will that we be members in a local congregation. And his idea of membership is faithful attendance and work with the congregation. Since this is God’s plan, it is the best plan!

Peter encourages us to "love the brotherhood" (1 Pet. 2:17). While we are to love all, including our enemies (Matt. 5:48), this phrase reflects the care and concern for one another in the church as seen throughout the New Testament.

When he spoke of brotherhood, he was speaking of the church of our Lord. We are born again as we enter the kingdom, the church. That new birth occurs just prior to rising to walk in newness of life. The rising to newness of life comes as we rise from the waters of baptism (Rom. 6:4). At the point of baptism our sins are washed away (Acts 22:16), our sins are forgiven or remitted (Acts 2:38). The brotherhood does not include every religious person. It does not incorporate every person who claims the Christian faith. The brotherhood only includes those who have been born anew. We must recognize who is a brother and sister and who is not. The unique relationship is with the brotherhood. And, if we accept one as a brother or sister who is not, then we will not teach them and encourage them to become a child of God.

Love includes being "kindly affectionate to one another" and "distributing to the needs of the saints" (Rom. 12:10, 13). Consider the actions we are to show to "one another" which are described in the New Testament. This is the love we are to practice. But, we must not be led in the wrong direction, thinking that love tolerates everything. Paul reproved Peter when Peter caused division among disciples (Gal. 2). Paul’s actions reflect his description of love, which "does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth" (1 Cor. 13:5).

Let us be earnest in our love of the brotherhood. Brothers and sisters are special, for we are God’s children and when we are faithful to him we will live eternally in his presence.

Bulletin.  September 14, 2008

The Hebrew writer tells us there was a change of law. That change of law was necessary because there was a change of priesthood. Since the law of Moses only allowed priests of the tribe of Levi, but Jesus was from the tribe of Judah and yet is our high priest, there had to be a change of law.

There was no provision for amendments in the law of Moses, nor is there in the law of Christ. Why? Because both laws were perfect, and the law of Christ continues as perfect.

Consider the fact of perfect laws for a moment. Man cannot deliver perfect law. No people have had perfect laws, aside from the law of Moses and the law of Christ.

This is one mark where our spiritual kingdom is much greater than any earthly kingdom. What a joy to serve in the spiritual!

Greg Weston

There were twelve men at Ephesus who were baptized by Paul. These men had already been baptized, but Paul baptized them in the name of Jesus (Acts 19:1-7). In the context it is obvious that these men had been baptized by John’s baptism, but in the wrong time. They were baptized by John’s baptism after John’s baptism was no longer valid. It is possible that Apollos baptized these men in John’s baptism (Acts 18:25-28), only to be taught by Paul later and then baptized in the name of Jesus.

This passage reminds us that just because a person was ‘baptized’ does not mean they are right with the Lord. There are false teachings on baptism in the religious world. We are to obey from the heart the pattern of teaching given by the Lord (see Rom. 6:17). If a person is taught by a religious group which denies that baptism has anything to do with forgiveness, how likely is it that those baptized by them are baptized for the proper reason? Since they do not know the truth, and are specifically taught error - there is no reason to believe they have been baptized as the Lord instructs.

Many people learn the truth of the gospel later, and then view their baptism through the truths learned afterward. We rejoice that these have learned the truth! But, each one needs to give sober consideration to exactly what they did and did not know when they were baptized. If a person was immersed to demonstrate the salvation they thought they had already received, they were not baptized for the right reason. They could not have understood baptism as the time when sins are forgiven, for they were certain they were already forgiven. These people are still in sin, for they have not obeyed from the heart the truth of the Lord.

Now let us consider it from the side of the Christian. If we accept another as a brother or sister who we know came from a religious group which does not teach or practice the truth on baptism, we may well be guaranteeing that they are lost. Our acceptance of a person is not a guarantee of their salvation. We should sit with them and diligently study these points with them. These precious souls need to be reminded of the temptation to view their past action in view of their new knowledge, but in fact that past action was not consistent with God’s instruction. How sad it would be for a person to be among the saints of God for a time but when they meet the Lord are told, "Depart!" Let’s do all we can to make certain each one has obeyed from the heart!

"You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier" (2 Tim 2:3-4).

"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand" (Eph 6:10-13).

Every Christian is called into a spiritual battle. This battle is against the spiritual hosts of wickedness, against Satan and his wicked hosts. The Lord has given us all things necessary to win, to be victors in this spiritual war. We are called upon to be faithful soldiers of Christ. See Ephesians 6:10-17.

In your life, are you putting aside "the affairs of this life" in order to please him who enlisted you? The Lord is first. Your commitment to him is greater than any other commitment. While those in our nation’s armed forces have committed themselves to our nation’s service, that service is second to service in the Lord’s army. As a soldier of Christ, are you serving him first and faithfully? If not, change!

Look again at the words of Paul above. Are you well protected, spiritually? Are you well practiced with the spiritual sword? As the soldier drills for perfection in our nation’s army, so the soldier of Christ must constantly sharpen his or her skills. The defensive equipment must be kept in good repair. Attention to each piece of armor must be given lest the enemy finds a means of wounding us. Are you set for the battle? Have you taken up the armor of God so that you may win?

Fight the good fight of the faith (see 2 Tim. 4:7)! Victory in this war brings eternal life. Fight, Christian soldier, fight!

Bulletin.  September 7, 2008.

As Christians we cannot waver on this truth. There is no other person in all of history who has the authority Jesus has. It is fashionable to accept the ideas of many, but righteousness demands that we reject any person or groups of people who contradict Jesus.

Stand on the truth of God and be faithful disciples of Jesus!

Greg Weston

Jesus preached the kingdom of God (Lk 4:43). In his teachings of the kingdom we learn more about the kingdom. Within the teachings of Jesus is the limitation of time placed on the beginning of the kingdom. Jesus spoke to those of his day and said, "But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:27). Jesus said the kingdom of God would be seen, would be in existence, before some of those who heard these words would die. It is in his generation that we should look for the kingdom’s beginning.

Paul understood that the kingdom was in existence in his day. He told the Colossians that they had been conveyed, or translated into the kingdom of the Son of his love (Col. 1:13). Paul and the Colossians were members, citizens of the kingdom of God. The time of the kingdom’s beginning was between Jesus’ comments of Luke 9 and Paul’s letter to the Colossians.

We pinpoint the kingdom by following a description of the kingdom’s coming. Jesus said the kingdom would come with power (Mark 9:1). He later told the disciples to wait in Jerusalem till they had received power from on high (Luke 24:49). Jesus specified that this power would be received when the Holy Spirit would come upon them, the apostles (Acts 1:8). The Holy Spirit descended upon them on the day of Pentecost, as recorded in Acts 2. It was on that occasion that Jesus’ promise of the baptism of the Holy Spirit was fulfilled (Acts 1:5; 2:33), that power from on high was received, and the kingdom was established. There is no other time or event between Jesus promise of Luke 9 and Paul’s comment to the Colossians which fit the descriptions given.

Just as Jesus gave the apostles information to help them understand and participate in the blessings God planned for them, we have the scriptures which include these keys to understanding God’s blessings. Jesus noted the limitation of time for the coming of the kingdom. We recognize the limitation as well as the fact of the kingdom’s beginning. We also rejoice that we, like Paul, have been translated into that kingdom. In the kingdom we have Jesus as our king, the New Testament as our sole authority, the kingdom [church] as our spiritual abode and heaven as our ultimate home.

Jesus fulfilled the prophecy of Daniel and established a kingdom which is eternal (Dan. 2:44). The Hebrew writer described it as a kingdom which cannot be shaken (Heb. 12:28). Just these two points emphasize the stability of the kingdom of Christ. Since he is eternal and reigns from on high, there is never a change in his kingdom.

While there are challenges within the kingdom of Christ, and have been from the beginning, there is never a change of king or law. His word is the sole authority, and we must live according to his will to have the hope of eternity. And, when people submit to the Lord there is a peace among them which is not seen in other spheres.

As children of God we should rejoice in this stability. We know the law of the Lord will not change. We can understand it, and we can follow it. As we do that we know we have the blessings promised to the faithful. From the beginning of our days to the end of life we can trust the Lord regardless of the ever shifting winds of change in the world. This brings peace and comfort.

Bulletin.  August 31, 2008

Each congregation has the challenge to grow together. There are no two congregations exactly the same, and in every congregation there should be a constant change as more souls are converted while others pass to their reward.

To grow together each member needs to realize the need to participate in the work of the congregation. We assemble together weekly with the purpose to encourage one another. We spend time during the week looking after one another. There cannot be exclusive groups in any congregation. Fellowship should be extended to all, by all.

Each member of the congregation should seek to use their talents, and grow in new talents, for the benefit of the congregation. This is not to seek one’s own benefit, but to serve the Lord and his people (Mt. 20:28).

Greg Weston

Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works" (Matt. 16:24-27).

Our soul is precious. The body one day will return to dust, but our spirit will continue in eternity (cf. Matt. 25:46). Where we spend eternity is in our hands, for God has made salvation possible through Jesus. We can live in eternity with God and receive the blessings he wants to give us, or we can choose to live a life in rebellion to him and live [exist] eternally apart from him and in torment. This is the general background to the words of Jesus

It is good for each of us to evaluate our goals in life, and how we are working to meet those goals. One of the questions Jesus asks goes to our desire for things. If a man gains the whole world, but loses his own soul, what is the advantage to him. If we spend our lives pursuing newer, bigger, and better we will end our life with great frustration. For the joy those things bring will end. Eternity will set in and we will reap what we have sown. Too many people have given their soul for things, for pleasure, for power or some other temporary benefit. Too few are living to prepare for eternity. Stop a moment. Consider your own life. Are you giving up your soul?

How do we keep our soul? Obviously by putting the Lord first. He is before all physical goods. This means our financial picture places our giving to the Lord and our work to spread his word in first place. Possession of physical things is not wrong, unless it causes our devotion to be focused in the wrong direction. And, the Lord is first in personal relationships. We cannot put our family or friends before the Lord. This means we will refuse certain activities and some relationships. In our relationships we are to seek to encourage them to godliness. We should seek our brothers and sisters first. Their fellowship will help us put the Lord first and not exchange it for anything less. Your soul is precious, do not trade it for any thing or any person.

Those things which we see and hear can, and often do, affect our thoughts and views of life. While some of these influences are neither good nor evil, some can very subtly condemn our soul. When these influences change our view of God and cause us to wander from his truth - it is evil.

Many movies bring ideas to our minds designed to make us more tolerant of evil. To think that any person is lost is repudiated by many individuals, and through the ‘big screen’ various producers and writers press that view through emotional and sensational movies. Novelists press their own views through imagined people and situations designed to tug at the reader’s heart strings. Songs are written to promote the idea that God will receive all people, and some depict those who stand with the Bible as evil and unloving.

"Christian" authors are often as guilty as those described above [and some of those above claim Christianity]. "Christian" authors often include within their popular writings the particular false teachings of the religious group they are associated with. While the writings remove the vulgar and immoral, they are filled with false teachings which are just as evil. If a novelist persuades a person that they will be saved, when the Bible teaches differently, that novelist is a false teacher and leads people to eternal condemnation.

What should we do? First, we do not need to watch every movie or television program. We should be selective. And, we are not required to read what others determine to be good. In all of these cases we need to compare the movie, song or novel with God’s timeless truths. And when we find something in error, we should deliberately purge our minds from it and fill our hearts with the truth of scripture.

Bulletin.  August 24, 2008

The simple formula for leadership is also called discipleship. It is the action of listening to the Lord as he speaks through the New Testament and living as he teaches. When we do this we lead others, or at least provide leadership for them.

When we speak as the Lord teaches we lead. Our acts of kindness demonstrate the godly path all should follow. The fact that we put the Lord first, and even explain that to others at times, shows them what kind of life to live.

There are other aspects of leading, but when we live faithful Christian lives we are the finest leaders the world will ever know. Even when the world mocks us it is still receiving the benefits of our godly lives. Do not grow weary, live faithful and lead others.

Greg Weston

The Lord has specified that his disciples assemble on the first day of the week (Heb. 10:24, 25). This is a time to encourage one another to godly living. It is a time when the word of God is proclaimed, the disciples pray to the Father and sing spiritual songs to one another and to the Lord (1 Cor. 14; Col. 3:16; Eph 5:19). It is the time when we partake of the Lord’s Supper (1 Cor. 11:17-34). And, it is when we give as we prosper (1 Cor. 16:1, 2; 2 Cor. 8, 9). It is a day when we fellowship one another and our God. It is a day when we proclaim through specific actions the death of our Lord and the fact that he is coming again. It is a unique day because of these blessing for each child of God. These blessings are received, and each disciples participates in giving blessings to one another.

As a child of God, what is your attitude toward the assembling of the saints? Be honest with yourself. Do you see this as something you "have to" do or is it a time of refreshment and blessing? The difference between the two lies in the heart of each person. If you do not receive blessings in the assembly, there certainly can be some problems outside of yourself which robs you of these blessings. However, the problem is often found within the person himself or herself. Too many have allowed the love of the world, the cares of this life, or even the pressures of family to crowd out the love for the Lord. Remember, Jesus said, "If you love Me, keep My commandments" (John 14:15). And, since Jesus instructs us to assemble - it is his command to us. Do you love the Lord? Is he truly put first in your life? If this is the case, then you will not want to miss the assembly, and you will give conscious effort in encouraging others rather than asking why some other may not appear to be diligent to encourage you. Truly, what is your attitude toward our assembling together.

The first day of the week, Sunday, is a special day to each child of God. It is the day the Lord was raised and is the day when we assemble with his disciples. On this day we receive spiritual encouragement. On this day we can provide assistance to brothers and sisters. Where were you last Sunday? And this Sunday, what will you do?

Bulletin.  August 17, 2008

"Jesus answered them and said, "Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. "Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him" (John 6:26-27).

Motivation was and is important to Jesus. He wants us to obey him not for what we can receive physically, but to have fellowship with him and enjoy the blessing of eternal life. Our response to him should be in faith, not in hope of filled stomachs or easier living. While we are to do good to all men (Gal. 6:10), we need to make certain that we do the best for all. Our focus should be on teaching the gospel. And, the good we do should not be done to entice them into obedience. We do good because we are compassionate and love as God loves (Matt. 5:48). We teach the gospel so they can believe, obey and live faithfully. Let us be very cautious in what we use to motivate, and in what motivates us!

Greg Weston

We must give close attention to the words of the apostle John. "If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds" (2 Jn 1:10-11). It is sin to participate with the false teacher (cf. Rom. 16:17-19). But in light of this command, remember the other side. It is a blessing to participate with the teacher of truth!

There are many who are teaching the truth of the gospel. These ought to have our support, encouragement and fellowship. In John’s third letter we read a commendation of brethren who were sending these teachers of truth on their way worthily. There had been provisions made for them and a blessing in sending them (3 Jn 1:5-8). John was rejoicing in the actions of those sending and those being sent. He said the two were "fellow-workers for the truth." If we are fellow-workers for the truth we are working for God who is the source of that truth (cf. John 16:13-15).

In every age there are those who turn from truth to falsehood, and others who turn from error to truth. We sorrow at the first and rejoice in the second. Because of this possibility of change we do need to listen carefully all the time, and even ask questions for clarification. We want to be fellow-workers with the truth and not error.

If a person states distinctly that the only way to heaven is through Jesus, the Son of God - rejoice. Yes, there are more details to ask, but this statement is given as a summary of all truth. If one is unashamed to say that forgiveness is given by God only to the penitent believer through the waters of baptism [immersion] - be happy. If that same person teaches there is one body, which is the church, and that body is made up only of those who have been forgiven and continue to walk in the truth - give God the praise. If the same emphasizes that elders are the overseers of a local congregation, that instrumental music is not authorized with spiritual songs, and that the Lord’s supper is to be taken on the first day of each week - be encouraged! There are more teachings to consider, but since so many have walked away from these basic teachings of scripture we can begin here.

John, the apostle of love, tells us not to give greeting to the false teacher. Why then do so many embrace false teachings and practices, and commend the leaders of these movements? Our goal is to focus on the truth of God, teach and practice it, and be fellow-workers with all who walk in His truth.

One Has Not, And Will Not Change!

Have you heard about the change in acceptable cholesterol levels? Medical professionals have lowered the acceptable level of cholesterol, frustrating our progress to ‘good health’! This type of change is seen in many areas of life. There is one place, however, where the standard has not and will not change. That is the basis for our relationship with God - the Bible.

The Bible was complete before the year A.D. 100, and has not changed since! It weathers all the changes of man’s standards. There is no tie between the Bible and man’s institutions, but an encouragement for man to conform to God’s standard. Whether we live in a monarchy or democracy, the Bible is just as applicable. Whether rich or poor, God’s message does not change. It is fascinating, remarkable and all-sufficient. It rises above all of humanities’ views and practices of life because it is from God. It was given by God and will be the standard of judgment for all humanity. And following it will lead to the most blessed life here as well as the certainty of life everlasting.

We do know that the visible expression of Christianity has changed through history. It is sad that there are many ‘churches’ all claiming to follow the one standard. But, the Bible has not changed. The differences among those claiming to be disciples of Jesus is found in them rather than God’s word. To be a disciple means we learn of him and follow him - not departing from his unchanging revelation!

Bulletin.  August 10, 2008

Even the thought of one troubling the church should cause each of us to tremble in fear. The one who troubles the church brings unrest to the redeemed of Jesus. Saul at one time had done this, and he was confronted by Jesus. Jesus said, "Why are you persecuting me?" (Acts 9:4). Troubling the church troubles Jesus.

There is an easy way to ensure that you do not trouble the church. Simply follow the inspired revelation from God to the human family - live according to the New Testament. We know this is true, because Elijah of old told Ahab that he was the troubler of Israel. What had Ahab done? He had forsaken the commandments of the LORD and followed the Baals (I King 18:18). So if we diligently follow the will of God we will build the church and notr trouble the people of God. How simple!

Greg Weston

There are several areas of extreme disagreement in the world. Many do not believe in God, and many others have wrong ideas about who God is or how God acts. In our discussions with these people we often fail to consider the root problem.

Those who do not believe in God have often begun with a dismissal of anything outside of nature itself. If they cannot see it in the natural world, they do not accept it. We need to help them understand that the natural world is not the answer to all questions. In fact, since the natural world demands that ‘nothing comes from nothing’ - but we are here - we must conclude there is a ‘supernatural’ world. When we understand that, then we can seek God, know him and serve him.

There are others who misunderstand God. The have an idea of who they think God should be, or how he should work. They read the scripture and talk about God, but with their ideas as their foundation. Their misunderstanding can be on the nature of God or the working of God, and these misunderstandings are many. The Bible plainly declares who God is and how he works. It plainly speaks about God, because it is God’s revelation to man. God reveals himself in the pages of the Bible. Consider carefully Acts 17:22-31. You can understand this passage. Read it carefully and spend time thinking about what God, through Paul, was saying about himself. Then consider what he demands of us.

Also keep in mind that God does not act in the same way in every generation. There was only one person in all of history commanded to build an ark (Gen. 6-9). There was only one time in history when God sent his Son (Matthew - John). We need to read the scriptures to understand how God works today. We can understand and we can respond to him in faith.

We must be careful how we approach life. Those ‘truths’ we hold onto may not be true at all. We need to be able to re-evaluate the foundation upon which we make decisions and insure that the foundation is sound. If it is false, then many of, if not all, our conclusions based on it will be false.

Do you remember that trip down the road when all of a sudden one child cried out whining, "He’s touching me!" Or the argument between two children about... you remember! One of the great challenges of parenting is settling disputes among children. I have yet to find a parent who delights in these disputes, but have seen many who have expressed deep concern about their children fighting. It brings to mind the words of Paul, "When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things" (1 Cor 13:11). Paul was not talking about misbehaving children, but was using this statement point out that the church would mature beyond the need of spiritual gifts. But it is also good for us to consider our behavior in the family of God - as children of God.

Are there disputes among God’s children? Uh huh! Would we even entertain the idea that these disputes make God happy? We better not. "These six things the LORD hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him...and one who sows discord among brethren (Prov 6:16-19). That is how God views it.

What is the solution? If we each do what God says then we will not fight, but will enjoy the wonderful peace God desires. We should not declare a teaching of God as unimportant. We do not have the right to bend God’s law to our culture or personal desires. We are to hear the word and do it. Then we are wise men, and peace will prosper (see Matt. 7:24-27). No more whining! Mature, and follow the will of Jesus completely.

Bulletin.  August 3, 2008

We are a blessed people. Even with the difficulties we may have in life, we have an abundance. Do not let the headlines cause you to become depressed and thinking all is bad. As a nation, a people, we still have so much. Let us be thankful to God for what we have.

In addition, let us be faithful to spread the gospel through the world. Even when life is more challenging financially, we should put the Lord first in our giving, time and energy. Spreading the gospel should not slow, even in difficult times.

The greatest blessing we have is our faith, and the end of our faith is eternal life. Through faith we walk with God, and by faithfulness we will one day be in his presence. We are blessed!

Greg Weston