Campus Bible Ministry

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!

Bulletin. Nov. 29, 2009

Give Thanks

“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.

Accounted It To Him As Righteousness

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!

Bulletin. Nov. 22, 2009

Do Not Grow Weary

“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 Master was the Servant

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.

Criminal Acts

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!

Bulletin. Nov. 15, 2009

Which False Teacher is Better?

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.

When the Foundation is Different

Greg Weston

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.

Wait For One Another

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!

Bulletin, Nov. 8, 2009

Updated:Wednesday February 18, 2009 09:39 PM

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