Updated:Saturday August 29, 2009 08:13 PM
Campus Bible MinistryAn Educational Work of the Park Street Church of Christ in Ashland, OregonServing Southern Oregon University and the RegionLocation: Corner of Park Street and Fremont StreetAshland, Oregon |
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greg@campusbibleministry.org Phone 541-482-4635 Mailing Address P.O. Box 763 Ashland, OR 97520 |
Conformity! Paul said, “Be not conformed to this world” (Rom. 12:1, 2). However, while he said to not be conformed to this world, he tells us that we are to be conformed to the image of the Son of God (Rom. 8:29). Conformity is either good or bad, depending upon the standard to which one conforms. Work diligently to conform to the image of Jesus. Read the gospels and consider what Jesus did and who he was. Read the descriptions of his life in Acts, the letters, and Revelation. Remember, too, that every instruction of the New Testament is the Lord’s instruction to us (John 16:13-15). Follow the pattern of life in the New Testament and conform to Jesus. Jesus came to serve rather than be served (Matt. 20:28). Are you conforming to that standard? Are you seeking to serve others? We have been called to this life of service, and in our faithfulness to it we glorify God! Let us conform to Jesus! Greg Weston August 15, 2010 Love Not The World John instructs us to ‘love not the world’ nor the things of the world (1 John 2:15-17). The Christian must always guard his or her heart, and the inclination to seek the ‘better life’ in physical comforts. There is nothing wrong with having physical goods, as long as we keep them in perspective. Wealth should always be measured in our relationship with God rather than our accumulation of this world’s goods. On a recent visit to a farm several of us noticed a sign encouraging all to worship the earth and make it our religion. This is certainly an extreme! Let us remember that this earth is truly a magnificent work of God’s creation, and we are stewards in it. However, when we begin worshiping the earth we become as those Paul described in Romans 1. We have exchanged the truth of God for the things he has made. We make the creation our focus rather than the Creator. This action will bring our condemnation rather than our salvation. It is obvious to each one that our world has gone headlong into materialism. We want more and more. As Christians we must be careful. We must be careful to avoid the materialistic attitude and the life which follows it. And, we must also be careful that we do not judge one another based on physical wealth. We must remind ourselves that one day we will leave all the material goods behind and stand before the Lord Jesus Christ to be judged. Let us not stand in judgment only to be condemned for our cars, homes, phones, computers, clothes and other physical enjoyments! Strive to keep a proper perspective on our relationship with the world. Put God first in all things. Read 1 John 1:15-17 again. And read it again. Carefully look at your own life and make the corrections needed. Allow the love of God to dwell in you richly, avoiding the love of the world. Greg Weston God’s Action God, through Haggai, described his action and why. He had reduced the prosperity of his people. What they had worked for did not bear fruit because they were not following what he had told them earlier. He told them to consider their ways, and turn back to him. At the conclusion of the book, after they had turned back to God and did as the Lord instructed, God described how he would bless them. This activity between God and his people is seen over and over through the Old Testament. There are some today who forcefully declare that everything they do is done by God. That is, when they make decision and when actions occur within their lives, they say it is not of their own will but is God working through and for them. Let us ask this question. Why did God refuse to assist his people in Haggai’s day? Rather than guide their every decision he called upon them to repent of the bad decisions they made. God did not refuse his people, he desired to bless them. The problem was their rejection of his path, which was given by Moses and reinforced by the prophets which followed. Does God work for his saints today? Absolutely. Just consider the work of angels as described in Hebrews 1:14 and you cannot conclude otherwise. Does God guide us in our decisions today? Yes, and no. He does guide us through the New Testament, having given us all things for life and godliness in these inspired pages (2 Pet. 1:3). When we study the book from God, the Bible, we have the inspired guidance for life. We follow his instructions, both in commands to us and in principles given for us. God, however, has never promised personal guidance for every person apart from his inspired word. Look back through the Bible. God selected certain ones to teach while all others were to listen and obey. That was the guidance. Jesus’ told the people to obey Moses. Why? Because that was the will of God for them at that time. Jesus would change the covenant, but that change did not come till his blood was shed (Heb. 9:15). God continues to work. But, we do not have modern prophets to point out the specific actions of God each day. We know he works, we ask him to bless us and others and we are to work for him each day. He gives us the responsibility to make our decisions, based upon what he has given us. It is all sufficient. We can be complete through its application (2 Tim. 3:16, 17). God did not promise supernatural guidance, so do not expect what God has not promised. But, trust that he will hear the prayer of the righteous and bless us in our faithfulness. Be faithful, pray without ceasing, trust the Lord completely and place your burdens upon him. Remember, when we wander from him trouble comes. When we walk with him, even through those troubles brought about from others lives, we have peace. Greg Weston A Clear Conscience Paul told his accusers that he had stood before God with a clear conscience, even when he had been persecuting the church of the Lord (Acts 24:16 ). To Timothy he described the Lord’s great grace, explaining that he was forgiven even though he was a murderer and blasphemer (1 Tim. 1:12, 13 ). Paul thought he was doing service for God, and considered that he was justified in his actions. Our conscience is a good tool, when it is trained properly. Too many times, though, we control our conscience to excuse our actions. We dismiss ourselves from caring for one another, considering what we are doing is more important. We can refuse a command of God, judging that we have sufficiently worked on his behalf. In many areas of life we have made ourselves the judge of God’s instructions rather than the obedient servant of our Lord. Train your conscience. Make the will of God first in your life. Regardless of what you want to justify in your ‘clean conscience’, do the will of God instead. Greg Weston August 1, 2010 Arranging Our Calendars Time management is a challenge for many. When we greet one another and inquire as to the others well being the response is often, “I am so busy.” It seems that we have a contest on who has the most to do. Stop and consider that we are often our own worst enemy. We schedule new activities till we have no time, and then complain. We need to go through those scheduled activities to determine which is most important and which is least important. Then, when we reach that needed balance we must learn to say no to additional ‘opportunities’. May I offer one simple scripture to consider when ‘cleaning the calendar’. “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matt 6:33 NKJV). Let’s make application. Where, according to this scripture, will you place the assembly of the church (see Heb. 10:24, 25). In what position will you place Bible study with the congregation, and personal Bible study? How high will caring for your brother and sister be in your list of activities? God’s design is for each Christian to be an active part of the local congregation, with the attitude of serving others. Read 1 Corinthians 12 and you will see this emphasis. Now, how about ‘cleaning the calendar’ to balance your life with the truth that Jesus is Lord and Christ as your guide? Don’t delay! Help yourself with a spiritually uplifting calendar. Greg Weston July 25, 2010 Discipline A fruit of the Spirit is self-control. To control one’s self is to discipline one’s self. Discipline is a learned behavior. There are many applications of discipline, a few of which will be addressed. The discipline of children is necessary for their current and future benefit. Remember the blessings of children obeying their parents? That blessing is a long life (see Eph. 6:1-3). No, it is not a guarantee but it is a general truth. Parents who discipline their children are a blessing to their children. The wise writer, Solomon, said that if we do not discipline our children we hate them (Prov. 13:14). Children who learn to behave properly at a young age are being prepared for life. The discipline of children should reflect the will of God for the lives of children and adults. Remember, however, that discipline is to assist the child’s understanding and behavior, not as an outlet for a parent’s frustration. Do not discipline when angry or exasperated, but wait till you can discipline effectively with love and discernment. Father’s are to bring up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, never provoking the children to wrath (Eph. 6:4). Discipline must be exercised in daily living. We are subject to the Lord in all things (Eph. 5:24), and in our subjection to the Lord we are subject to the civil authorities (Rom. 13:1ff). We are also to submit to our employers (Eph. 6:6-8). We have rules to follow. When we follow the rules we are pleasing the Lord, living faithful to him and also giving an example which others can follow. A parent who insists his or her children obey rules of the family and willingly violates the laws of the land frustrates the lives of the children. Consistency is necessary. Finally, discipline is required in our relationship to the Lord. One fruit of disciplining children is their ability to submit completely to the Lord. When we allow children to control their own lives without discretion we set them up for failure as Christians. They have not learned discipline. For each of us, there is no part of our life which is not subject to Jesus. Although he allows us to choose today whether we will follow him or not, in the end we will answer for our decisions. The young are to consider this truth in the days of their youth (Eccl. 11:9 - 12:1), and adults should always remember that we will give account to the Lord for our actions each day (2 Cor. 5:10). Our spiritual discipline will be evident in relationship to our obedience to the will of Jesus, revealed in the pages of the New Testament. When we find ourselves saying, “Surely the Lord is not concerned with such a small thing,” we have become the judge rather than the servant (see James 4:11). We must realize that God did not speak just to fill a book or ‘hear himself talk’. He has given us all things for our maturity, our perfection (2 Tim. 3:16, 17). The words of scripture are to guide us in life and godliness, and they are all sufficient (2 Pet. 1:3). If we refuse to hear them, or hear them and do not obey them, we will be the losers for eternity (see Matt. 7:21-28). Discipline is important to the Lord. When we discipline ourselves by the New Testament we are living by the perfect law of liberty (Jms 1:25), and will enjoy the blessings of salvation. Listen to the Lord and follow his every instruction. He has given this for your benefit, now and through eternity. Greg Weston Bulletin. July 18, 2010 Church Leadership One challenge the church faces in every generation is leadership. The Lord provided for its leadership by giving the qualifications for and work of elders who are also called bishops and pastors (see 1 Tim. 3; Tit. 1; Acts 20:17-32; 1 Pet. 5:1-5). The pattern is perfect, but our application of the pattern can be flawed. One requirement for leadership, in the qualifications for elders, is ‘not a novice’ (1 Tim. 3: ). A man must have experience in Christian living and have grown in knowledge before he can serve as a bishop. This qualification is further complemented by the elder’s requirement to hold to the faithful word in order to encourage as well as stop the mouths of those who teach what they ought not (Tit. 1:9-11). The qualification is met through Bible study. In every congregation with elders, it is the elders who should shepherd in example and in knowledge. Many congregations do not have elders. Each congregation should still recognize the principle of male leadership in the church, as noted in the plan for elders as husbands of one wife (1 Tim. 3: ). Leadership is needed in every congregation, and men must provide it. All men need to study the scriptures more and more. We need to learn and to apply. In every situation we need to seek the counsel of the Lord, through scripture. When we know the scriptures we are more able to provide the leadership the Lord desires. Knowledge alone is not sufficient, but godly leadership is impossible without it. Men, study the Bible. Study together. Be a participant in all opportunities the local congregation provides. Seek those who are wise to help guide you. As you are doing this, lead! The church needs men to lead, and women to follow their lead. And, in all the leadership described we must always follow the head, who is Christ Jesus. Men, stand up and lead. Greg Weston Decisions Several years ago I met with a preacher who explained how he chose his sermon text or topic. He sat his Bible on its spine and let it fall open. From the texts on that page he would be ‘led’ what to preach – on either text or topic. He said he did not want to get in the way of the Spirit of God in getting the message to the people. Many handle decisions of life in a similar fashion. Whatever comes along, must be the will of God – according to them. We must reflect upon what the Bible says. The Bible is able to make one wise unto salvation, and make us complete unto every good work (2 Timothy 3:14, 17). Never in the Bible are we told to ‘allow’ the Spirit of God to ‘move us’ in the manner described above. The preacher is to preach the word (2 Timothy 4:2). And all are to hear the word, and act upon it. What does this mean? We are to listen to what the Bible says, and each of our decisions should be made within the teachings and principles it contains. Paul expected the Corinthians to understand that he was speaking by the Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 14:35-37) and to act upon that word. John wrote that the brethren could ‘know’ they were saved (1 John 5:13). They were to read the letter, consider its message in every detail and follow it. When they followed it there was assurance of salvation. It is my judgment that many who speak of the will of God in their lives, directing every step of the way and considering every event as determined by the Lord, simply want to give God the glory. That attitude is commendable. But, what if God did not ‘purpose’ those events they speak of? If we say God did something, which he did not, are we truly giving him glory? If one considers a new job as a gift from God, and that new job reduces their activity in the church, will they not comfort themselves in their absence thinking it is of God? Their attempt to ‘glorify God’ then results in unfaithfulness to God! Think about it. How do we know what God wants? We know his will for us through his inspired book, the Bible. Follow its teachings with great care and apply the principles contained therein with zeal. Make the decisions God expects you to make. In that you will give God the glory! Greg Weston Bulletin. June 11, 2010 Independence Day!
Today we celebrate, as a nation, our independence. In every nation there are significant dates which remind us of the more significant event which happened upon that date in history. As we celebrate our independence, however, let us as Christians also celebrate our servitude. “Jesus therefore said to those Jews that had believed him, If ye abide in my word, (then) are ye truly my disciples; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32). The Jews did not understand his statement. He was speaking to them of freedom from sin, not political or military freedom. When abide in his word, we are disciples of Jesus and free from sin. As disciples, however, we are learners and followers of him. As disciples we cannot do whatever we please and continue with him. Remember, he spoke of these blessings to the one who ‘abides’ in his word. That abiding means responsibility to do right. Paul expressed it to the Romans in the image of slavery. We are slaves to whom we obey, whether obedience to sin unto death or obedience unto righteousness (Rom. 6:17-18). When we are servants of righteousness we are free, independent from sin. As we celebrate our national Independence Day let us rejoice in our freedom from sin through Jesus and glory as servants of the Son of God. Greg Weston Three Current ‘Institutions’ Given By God
The home was given to humanity by God from the very beginning. Adam and Eve were the first married couple, and they were told to be fruitful and multiply (Gen. 1:26-30). Throughout the Bible the family unit is spoken of, and their actions are regulated by God. In the New Testament there are passages which give guidance for families. Specific answers to specific questions may not be found, but the principles for marriage and the training of children do answer every specific question. These instructions can be likened to a mathematical formula proven to be true. The formula is used for many different specific sets of numbers, but if used appropriate the right answer is always found. Scripture is the spiritual formula for life, and it begins with this first and oldest institution given by God – the family. Government was also given by God. From the early days of humanity rules for the actions of humanity within civil spheres are found. In both the Old and New Testaments we find that God holds the rulers responsible for their actions and demands that the citizens of the kingdom follow the laws of the kingdom. God’s reproof of Israel’s leaders illustrates God’s intention of civil authority (Ezek. 34). We also find in the New Testament that Paul commanded the Roman Christians, and all, to submit to the government – even in paying taxes (Rom. 13). God does not specify a specific type of political unit, but expects Christians all through the world to submit to the government under which they live. The only exception we have is when the government demands contradict God’s instructions. In those cases we follow Peter and John in obeying God rather than men (Acts 4:19, 20). But be careful if you do this and be certain the government is actually contradicting the will of God rather than your own desires! The church is the third institution given by God. Jesus promised to build his church, declaring that death itself would not prevent it (Matt. 16:16-18). On the first Pentecost Day following the resurrection of Jesus the church was established, as described in the second chapter of Acts. This institution is more valuable than all others, because it was purchased by the blood of the Son of God (Acts 20:28)! This institution is unique because it is the ‘body’ of all the saved. It does not contain all who think they are saved, but includes all whom the Lord adds to it (see Acts 2:38, 41, 47). The church, which is the kingdom of Christ (Col. 1:13), has but one head – Jesus (Eph. 1:22, 23). Every member of the body is directed by its head. That direction is given through the pages of the New Testament, in which we have all things for life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3). This one church is filled with imperfect people who have been forgiven and have become children of God with the blessed hope of Heaven. What a glorious ‘institution’! Greg Weston Bulletin. July 4, 2010 Men’s Role in the Church The Lord has provided the pattern for leadership in the church. This pattern is found in the New Testament, and is not based upon culture or opinion. The instructions we find are based on the headship of Jesus. As our King he commands and we are to obey. Jesus has set a specific type of organization in his church. This organization only applies to the local congregation, for there is no New Testament authority for any organization higher than the local congregation. The local congregation is to be overseen by men called elders, bishops or pastors. There is to be a plurality of these men overseeing one congregation (see Acts 20:17-32; Phil. 1:1; 1 Pet. 5:1-5). A specific qualification for one to serve in this position is to be the husband of one wife (1 Tim. 3:2). The Lord has appointed that leadership in the church, under his headship, is male leadership. When the church is assembled, and even when there is a spiritual gathering and instruction is given, men are appointed to lead (see 1 Cor. 14; 1 Tim. 2). There were women prophets in the New Testament time (Acts 21:9), but they were to be silent in the assembly of the church and during times of instruction were to not exercise dominion over the men. Those select and unique servants to the church are also to be husbands of one wife (1 Tim. 3:12). These men are not elders, but are to serve under the oversight of the elders. The focus at this point, however, is that they are male and not female. What does all this mean? Despite the current cultural press for women to be equal in all things to men, we must understand that in the church there are unique roles which the Lord has set in order. So once again we emphasize this truth for all, and once again we encourage men to exercise that leadership which God intends for us. It does not mean all men are equal in leadership though. Few will be qualified as deacons, and even fewer as elders. But work to qualify yourself and so serve for the benefit of the Lord’s church and under his oversight. Lead, men, lead! Greg Weston
The Positive Power of the Tongue There is much said about the evils of the tongue, and that evil can be great. The tongue, however, is simply a reflection of what is in the heart of the person (see Mark 6:14-23). But even though there is great evil in the tongue, there is also a positive power in the tongue. It is the tongue which we use to encourage one another. We are to sing, speaking one to another for the purpose of encouragement (Col. 3:16; Eph. 5:19). And, the speech we use can give grace to those that hear (Col. 4:2). We can lift the downcast and bring joy to the sorrowing – with the tongue. Let us use this little member of our body for good! We use the tongue to praise God. We are to give him glory with the fruit of our lips, using the tongue to bless him (Heb. 13:15; Jms. 3:9). We are to sing and make melody in our hearts to the Lord, using our tongue to praise him (Col. 3:16). Surely this use of our tongue is a powerful presence in our world! Yet another positive power of the tongue is in making disciples of Jesus. This is our task, and is one which gives opportunity to demonstrate the power of the tongue in conversion. We use the tongue to preach to every creature (Mar, 16:15). It is the tongue of God which we use to teach others how to walk with God to grow in our spiritual lives and have the assurance of a heavenly home (see 2 Tim. 4:1-8). The word of God flowing from our tongue changes the world. This is power from God, spoken by man. When we are disciples of Jesus we will use our tongue in the same fashion as our Lord. We will be a blessing to all as we discipline our tongue by the heart focused on the Lord. The tongue is a potentially positive power in the world. Is your tongue exercising this power? Greg Weston Did He Know? Did God know that Jesus would be rejected of men and crucify on the cross? David spoke of not being left in hades, and the flesh not seeing corruption (Ps. 16). Peter said he was not speaking of himself but spoke of the resurrected Christ (Acts. 2:27-31). This was after he said the crucifixion of Christ was according to the determinate purpose and foreknowledge of God (Acts 2:22-24). Yes, God knew that Jesus would be rejected and be crucified. And, it was according to his plan. God promised the hope of eternal life, before times eternal (Tit. 1:2). However, in order to have this hope we must be forgiven of our sins. When we understand that forgiveness comes only through the blood of Jesus we understand that even before the world was created God knew that Jesus would be rejected of men and be crucified (see Heb. 9:15-22). Paul also stated that the wisdom of God is made known through the church, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus (Eph. 3:10, 11). God knew. God promised that one of David’s sons would sit upon his throne, and Jesus is now there (Acts 2:33-36). Our Father promised that we would have the benefit of his Suffering Servant’s sacrifice (Is. 53), and we do (1 Pet. 1:17-21; 2:21-25). His promised blessings are given to those who obey Jesus (Heb. 5:9). Have you obeyed (Acts 2:38)? Are you living a life of obedience (Matt. 7:21-23)? Bulletin. June 27, 2010 Happy Father’s Day To all fathers – Happy Father’s Day. Each of us who have children have been blessed. When we have children who seek the Lord first, and put spiritual values above all else, we are tremendously blessed. “The Proverbs of Solomon: a wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish son is the grief of his mother” (Prov 10:1 NKJ). “A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish man despises his mother” (Prov 15:20 NKJ). “The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice, and he who begets a wise child will delight in him” (Prov 23:24 NKJ). Wise children are no accident. They do not ‘just happen’ but are the result of many hours spent in prayer and years training them. Fathers and mothers are never perfect, but those who trust the Lord will focus on training children to love the Lord and put all their trust in him. Paul reminds us of our responsibilities: “And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord” (Eph 6:4 NKJ). If we do this we will have done our part in raising wise children. Happy Fathers day to all! Honoring Fathers While some children do not appear to care about their fathers, others give great attention to providing the suitable demonstration of their love and appreciation. Children of fathers who strive to serve the Lord have been blessed in many ways. The best way to honor your fathers is to do as they strive to do – serve the Lord. It is an extreme blessing for one to have the entire family in the assembly of the church. The joy of knowing our children are also looking to God and are giving great diligence to serve him is a gift that keeps giving. We know our children will disappoint us, and we will disappoint our children. We are all human. But a child who serves God is an honor to his or her parents. As we contemplate honoring our fathers after the flesh, let us never forget to honor our spiritual Father at all times. Our faithful life in service to him and his Son, Jesus, is the honor he desires. Read carefully the words of Jesus as recorded in Matthew 15:8, 9 and give honor to God. Greg Weston
Good Lessons From History History is not an authority in matters of religion. The Bible is the only authority God has given to all humanity, and it is perfect! However, there are good lessons from history which aid us in our convictions concerning Biblical teaching. Within the pages of the New Testament you will not find the mention of a priest hearing the confession of the ‘laity’ or common people. And, when you study church history this practice of clergy and laity are absent for many years. History provides an emphasis to the fact that God did not establish a priesthood to exercise spiritual authority over others. In fact, we are all priests! See 1 Peter 2:5-9. The New Testament instructs us to assemble together (Hebrews 10:25). The church was together, assembled, on the first day of the week (1 Cor. 16:1, 2; Acts 20:7). Some claim that the first day assembly was changed by Constantine, a Roman emperor of the earth 4th century. Those same people tell us that the Sabbath is to be kept today as part of the New Testament pattern. The references above demonstrate the assembly of the first day, Paul’s comment to the Colossian forbade a person being judged concerning a Sabbath (Colossians 2:16), and history records that the church assembled on the 8th day. This was a reference to the first day of the week, with the odd designation of the 8th. History tells us that the first day was practiced by the church long before Constantine. History is not our authority, but it is often a helpful ally in demonstrating the truth of Scripture. If it is not even found in the days following the first century then it cannot be New Testament teaching! Greg Weston Bulletin. June 20, 2010
It Is Our Choice
Are we capable of doing good? Do we have the ability to choose the good or the bad in life? The answer to both questions is, "Yes!" Generations ago a great leader of God's chosen people of Old Testament times challenged those people to, "Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve" (Joshua 24:15). They could choose! Ezekiel spoke of the ability to choose too. He spoke of a person who had done good in the past but later decided to do evil. And, he spoke of the man who had done evil earlier but repented and did good. He said each would be judged according to the final condition in life, good or evil. See Ezekiel 18 and 33. The New Testament also demonstrates that we have that choice. Jesus invites all to come to him, but does not force it. This emphasizes our ability to choose (Matthew 11:28). And, Paul said we will be judged for the things done in the body, whether it is good or evil (2 Corinthians 5:10). We can choose! We have the responsibility to choose well. And, we will answer to God for the choices we make. Read the New Testament, understand its message and obey the Lord! Greg Weston No, They Are Not Heroes of the Faith! What do many of the ‘Reformers’ of the 16th century have in common? They are revered by many as heroes of the faith. While we agree that in many ways they were bold, and can admire certain characteristics they had as men, we cannot and must not hold them up as examples. Martin Luther taught that a person is saved by ‘faith only’ and has deceived multitudes of people through his teaching. Yes, we are saved by faith but not by ‘faith only’. In fact, each person should realize that “faith only” occurs only once in the New Testament. James said, “You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only” (Jms 2:24 NKJ). Focus on the “not by faith only” and see the terrible error Martin Luther has promoted. Do not make the one who places a roadblock to any person’s salvation your hero! John Calvin said that a person inherits ‘original sin’ and by themselves can do no good at all. He claimed that God chose each individual who would be saved, by name, before creation. Calvin then has erred terribly. His teaching is followed by many today, ignoring the truth Peter stated in Acts 10:34, 35. “Then Peter opened his mouth and said: "In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. "But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him” (NKJ). These men left the Catholic Church of their day, but began religious bodies which are just as dangerous. They lead men astray. Do not put these men on a pedestal for all to admire, but remember that they led and lead many men to eternal condemnation. Our work is to return to the Lord. The New Testament is his law for us to obey, and we can understand it ourselves. Read it, apply it and look forward to eternity with the Lord. Greg Weston June 13, 2010 50 Years Fifty years ago this month several brothers and sisters began meeting in the community center, establishing the Lithia Church of Christ. The name came from Lithia Creek and Lithia Park which was [is] across the street from the community center. Five years later they began meeting in the facility pictured above, at the corner of Park and Fremont Streets, which has served the Park Street Church of Christ well for forty-five years. The Park Street Church of Christ has trained men and women through the years who are serving in Ashland and many other locations. This congregation has participated in preparing men to preach, has had elders in past years and has sponsored many evangelistic events. Gospel meetings in past years were a high point of the congregation’s schedule. Evolution/creation seminars were conducted at the high school and on the college campus, with great interest and a significant benefit to many. The church in Ashland has also hosted annual lectures for several years and has worked to encourage her own members as well as members throughout our region. The Ashland School of Biblical Studies has been a positive work to prepare many for greater service in the Lord’s kingdom. While we look back and recall with both humor and sadness those events behind us we must also remember the encouragement of Paul. We should forget the things which are behind and press on toward the high call of God in Christ Jesus (see Phil. 3:12-16). We are not in the business of saying, “Look what we have done!” Our focus is “Let’s be certain we continue to do the will of the Lord!” It is present tense, building for present and future strength, which is our focus. As we reflect then, let us remember the good things done and let those motivate us to better things today and tomorrow! Bulletin. June 6, 2010
Heroes and Memorial Day Tomorrow is a national holiday, Memorial Day, during which our nation honors those who have given their lives in service to our country. Recognizing service is outstanding. As outstanding as this recognition is there is an even greater recognition. Those who have given their lives in faithful service to the Lord are heroes of the faith. They are excellent examples to all, in the same tradition as those who acted ‘by faith’ in Hebrews 11. This is not a recommendation to lobby for a ‘spiritual memorial day’. It is, however, a plea for all to recognize the highest service we can participate in during our lives. Our service to the Lord is daily and constant. We do not seek publicity, and we even attempt to avoid it. Our goal is to glorify God rather than desire for our name to be attached to buildings or monuments. The Lord knows, and the Lord rewards. That is sufficient. The world does not understand the amazing benefits it receives because of the faithful walk of Christian men and women. Their ignorance of what we provide is fine, but their ignorance of God and his plan for every soul is not. Let us teach, preach, proclaim, and persuade others to obey the gospel. Souls will be saved and the world will have a greater light through the lives of the faithful. God will be glorified. As you honor those who have given their life for our nation do not forget to soberly consider him who gave his life for all. Live in service to Jesus and participate in the greatest work the world has ever known, and ever shall know! Greg Weston Bulletin. May 30, 2010 When the Important is Overcome by the Urgent! The important is not always recognized as urgent. Those matters which press upon us each day are understood as urgent, but preparing for eternity is put off by many. Our preparation for eternity, in growing in our faith and faithfulness is more important than the ‘urgent’ but is often crowded out of our schedules. When is the last time you sat and visited with someone to encourage them to obey the gospel or to remain faithful? Too often we put these tasks off till ‘tomorrow’! And tomorrow too often never comes! People are entering eternity every day unprepared. It is often their own fault, because they did not consider life beyond the urgent or perhaps to enjoy ‘the pleasurable’. At times it is our fault because we allow the urgent to take away from the time we could encourage others to godliness. Those outside the body of Christ need to wake and seek the Lord while each of us inside the body of Christ must grow in the ability to put the important before the urgent! Take time every day for your spiritual growth and understanding. Then, look about and see who you can encourage in godliness. Do not decide for them, but genuinely and persuasively reach out to them. If one rejects the message, find another, and another. Just keep teaching and encouraging toward godliness. No Fear - Except The faithful Christian has no fear of the things the world fears. We do not fear the future, for we know that the Lord is in charge. And, we also know that all things will work together for good for God’s people (Rom. 8:28). In addition, even in the face of death we have confidence. God is with us (Psalm 23), and when our life on this earth is over we have a habitation made without hands, eternal, in the heavens (2 Cor. 4:16 – 5:10). Yes, no fear for the Christian – except. The Christian is to fear God (Eccl. 12:13). This fear is a reverential fear. We know the power of God, and the justice of God. We also know the love, kindness and mercy of God. He is our Father, and as our Father he gives good things to us (Jas. 1:17). But, even in this reverential fear there still is a fear of his presence like Moses at the burning bush (Ex.3:6). In the presence of God there was never a flippant, familiar demeanor. No, there was always awe and the recognition of one’s own limitations. On those occasions recorded in the Bible we see time after time that humility brought by the presence of God. Disciples of Jesus should have that balance of the fear of God and the comfort of being in the presence of the Good Shepherd. What a blessing! No fear like the world, but hope in God! How Do They Hear You? When you speak, how do others hear you? Communication is challenging. From the words we speak to the tone of voice we use we can either encourage or discourage, we can build up or tear down. “Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer each one” (Col. 4:6). The words you choose, are they with grace? Paul instructs the Christian to rise above the world. The world looks to itself, but the child of God looks to the other. Before you speak, pause and think about what and how you speak. And, as others pause to consider their own words be patient. This silence can bring golden times! Bulletin. May 23, 2010
As To The Lord Christians are the best employers and employees, or should be the best. While there are many standards of conduct in the workplace, the highest standard is given by Paul to the Colossians. When he instructed masters and slaves he told them how to conduct themselves. Although he did not command them to abandon slavery, he did instruct them to treat one another in such a way to make that relationship much better. The nearest activity in our society to that relationship is the employer/employee relationship. It is good to note the specifics Paul gives in the passage, but there is one admonition which includes all the rest. The employees [slaves] are to work heartily, as to the Lord. And, the employers [masters] are to treat their employees well, knowing they have a Master in heaven. When the employee and employer understand these responsibilities, they will be the best and God will be glorified. Greg Weston
A Big Difference The master/slave relationship is best applied to the employer/employee relationship in our culture, with one exception. We are not bound to a master. The choice of who we work for is our decision, and the determination of how long we work for them is a choice we make individually [certain contracts being the exception – to a point]. This is a blessing our laws provide for us – slavery is illegal. There are many who have concluded that we are in ‘practical slavery’. They say that one cannot just “Up and quit!” The reason given is financial. We owe too much money to others and have failed to save for difficult times. Could we call this ‘self-imposed slavery’, even though the term slave still is not appropriate. While the choice may present challenges we can still decide how long and for whom to work. When people choose their employment they often forget the most important part of life. How will this job affect their ability to assemble with the church and work for the Lord? What times and days will they be working, and does it conflict? How many hours will they have to work and will it take away from their work for the Lord? Even in our current economy there are many choices for each one to make. Be bold and discuss these needs with your employer. Put the Lord first in all things. While the employer and employee need to consider the Biblical ethic of work as explained in the master and slave references, we also need to remember we are free to make choices. Let us make choices reflecting our love and service to God. Greg Weston Bulletin May 16, 2010 |
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Updated:Saturday August 29, 2009 08:13 PM
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