By
Ron Thomas The word sinner is used 12 times in the New
Testament, while the plural is used 31 times (ASV). Is this word ever applied
to one who is a Christian, that is, one who is living the life of Christ? It is
not. If not, then why do Christians identify themselves as sinners? Perhaps
there are a number of reasons, one of which may be something along this line:
“If I say I’m not a sinner, does that not sound a bit arrogant?” Since it does
in the mind of many, there is a term used to help in making a distinction. This
term is “alien sinner”, that is, one who is not saved by the blood of Christ in
contrast to sinner, one who is saved by the blood of Christ. Yet, if the word
sinner refers to one who needs to repent, then Christians are sinners and lost
with regard to salvation. Think about the meaning of the word as it
is used in varied contexts. Here is one: Even so, Isay unto you, there is joy
in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth (Luke
15:10). A sinner is one who needs to repent. If you’re living the life of Christ,
do you need to repent? Here is another: let him know, that he who converteth a
sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall cover
a multitude of sins (James 5:20). In this reading, a sinner needs converting.
As a Christian, do you need to be converted? If so, to what? Finally, Jesus
said in Luke 5:32, I am not come to call the righteous but sinners to
repentance. Since you have been converted to the Lord, that is, you have
repented of your sins and obeyed the gospel, identifying with the Lord in
baptism, that means you have answered the call of Jesus to righteousness. The passage that will get Christians to use
the word sinner in relation to themselves is that which Paul said in 1 Timothy.
Faithful is the saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came
into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief: Did Paul actually say he
was the “chief of sinners” that is, he was guilty of sin more than anyone else
at the time when he wrote these words to Timothy? If one presses the language,
then yes, this is what he said. On the other hand, is that what he meant? It is
not. Consider: 1) in 1:13, Paul was mindful of what he once was, that is,
guilty of many things against God. If he was still the chief of sinners, then
at the time in which he wrote these words to Timothy, he must have been guilty
of the same things. If you say he was not, then what was he guilty of with the
use of the word sinner? He certainly did not identify anything of which he was
guilty. 2) Paul, however, said he was not that, but that he received mercy from
the Lord in his state of unbelief, thus a sinner. 3) Christ Jesus came into the
world to save sinners of which Paul considered himself the chief, guilty of
those things he mentioned in 1:13. 4) Because he was the chief of sinners, he
obtained mercy (1:16). I understand fully that we all struggle
with sin; maybe for some it is worse than it is for others. Still, when the New
Testament uses the word, it is in relationship to those lost in sin. If you’ve
obeyed the Gospel of Jesus, you’re not lost in sin. You may struggle mightily
with it, but in such circumstances, My dear children, I am writing you this so
that you may not sin; yet if anyone ever sins, we have One who pleads our case
with the Father, Jesus Christ, One who is righteous. And He is Himself the
atoning sacrifice for our sins; and not for ours alone, but also for the whole
world (1 John 2:1-2; Charles B. Williams’s translation). |
- Ron Thomas preaches for the Church of Christ at Rio Grande in Bidwell, OH. He
may be contacted at etsop95@gmail.com  |
Sunday, March 26, 2023
Alien Sinner / Sinner
Stand Fast
By
Edd Sterchi According to the American Heritage
Dictionary of Idioms, the phrase “stand fast” means, “to be firm or
unyielding.” It also reveals that: “This idiom, dating from the early 1600s,
originally was applied to an army holding its territory against the enemy.” The
phrase “stand fast” occurs in some translations of our English Bibles, as well.
Actually it is translated from the Greek word “steko” which is defined as, “to
stand firm, to persevere, to persist, to keep one’s standing” (Thayer’s
Greek-English Lexicon). With all this in mind, let’s examine a few
of the “stand fast” passages in the New Testament and notice the different ways
we are to “stand fast” in holding our territory against our enemy – Satan. *
Stand fast for the Lord. - “...so stand fast in the Lord, beloved” (Phil. 4:1).
First and foremost, we must stand for the Lord. If we don’t stand for Jesus,
then we stand for the world. Christ must come first in everything in our lives. *
Stand fast in your Christianity. - “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by
which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of
bondage” (Gal. 5:1). Christianity is about maturing and moving forward.
Standing fast in this mindset and lifestyle keeps Satan at bay. *
Stand fast with the brethren. - “Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel
of Christ...that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together
for the faith of the gospel” (Phil. 1:27). Standing fast with the brethren in
fellowship, worship, and work strengthens our ties and helps all. *
Stand fast on the Bible. - “Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the
traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle” (2 Thess.
2:15). We must be those who stand upon the Bible and stand by its teachings. We
must learn them, live them, and defend them. This keeps us safe. *
Stand fast through faith. - “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be
strong” (1 Cor. 16:13). It is only through faith and trust in God that we will
do any of these. It is only by standing through thick and thin with our faith
intact that we will persevere all the way to heaven. |
- Edd Sterchi preaches for
the Broadway Church of Christ in Campbellsville, KY. He may be contacted
through the congregation's website: http://www.broadwaychurchofchrist.net/ |
A New Song
By Joe
Slater Six times in the Psalms, once in Isaiah,
and twice in Revelation, Scripture speaks of “a new song.” Invariably it has to
do with deliverance or salvation of some kind. Psalm 33:3 exhorts, “Sing to Him a new
song.” Why? Among many other reasons, “the eye of the Lord is on those who fear
Him . . . to deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine”
(vv. 18-19. David had salvation from sin in Psalm 40:3
– “He has put a new song in my mouth.” What prompted this song? “My iniquities
have overtaken Me . . . they are more than the hairs of my head . . . Be
pleased, O Lord, to deliver me” (vv. 12-13). A more temporal “salvation” resulted in a
new song in the other psalms. “Sing to the Lord a new song . . . Proclaim the good
news of His salvation from day to day” Psalm 96:1. “O sing to the Lord a new
song . . . His right hand and His holy arm have gained the victory. The Lord
has made known His salvation” (Psalm 98:1-2). “I will sing a new song to You, O
God . . . the One who gives salvation to kings, who delivers David His servant from
the deadly sword” (Psalm 144:9-10). “Sing to the Lord a new song” (Psalm 149:1)
is followed by a call for the destruction of Israel’s enemies. Isaiah’s call for a new song (Isaiah 42:10)
anticipates the spiritual salvation that Jesus would provide in the Messianic
age. That salvation has become a reality in Revelation 5:9 as the four living
creatures and the twenty-four elders “sang a new song” praising Jesus the Lamb
for being slain, redeeming us by His blood, and making us a royal priesthood.
Innumerable angels and all of creation join in this song in 5:11-13. The great
body of the redeemed in Revelation 14:3 is also said to sing a new song. |
- Joe Slater serves as minister of the Church of Christ in Justin,
TX. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://justinchurchofchrist.com |
What a Difference a Day Makes!
By
Bill Brandstatter My birthday is March 2nd. You may be
reading this before or after that day. It causes me to think about life and my
status with God. The reflections cause me to look backward and forward. I have
realized daily the expression “time flies.” The writer James told of life and
stated, “It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes
away.” (James 4:14 NKJV) Reflection is good for the soul. It causes us to look
at where we are and where we ought to be. The Psalmist stated regarding life, “For
it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” (Psa. 90:10) Where have I been? My past life is gone.
The present is now. Whatever mistakes I made in the past I need to forget and
move on. The apostle Paul had to remind himself to do that. He stated he was “forgetting
those things which were behind and reaching forward to those things which are
ahead” (Phil.3:13). I can’t change the past. I can make the present better. Where am I now? God is concerned about
where we are now. The urgency of the moment is expressed in several Bible
passages. Paul wrote, “Now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of
salvation” (2 Cor. 6:2). We should be “redeeming the time” (Eph. 5:16). Where will I be in the future? I don’t know
what the future holds, but I know who holds the future. The best way to prepare
for the future is to prepare now. The future happens with the dawn of every new
day. As one person stated, “Today is the start of the rest of your life.” My
entrance into heaven depends on what I do while here on earth. I have the
chance now to do what I must to enter heaven one day. What a difference a day
can make. We must obey Jesus today, so that we can see Him tomorrow. (Mark
16:16; Heb. 5:8, 9) |
- Bill Brandstatter preaches for the Marion Church of Christ in
Marion, IL. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://marionchurchofchrist.com/ |
Introduction to Jude By Jeff Arnette
By Jeff
Arnette The letter of Jude and the person are not
well known to modern readers of the Bible. Most have no idea who he was or why
his unique letter is even considered Scripture. I call his letter unique
because of its contents. In the letter Jude refers to a book called “The
Assumption of Moses” and one called “The Book of Enoch.” Do not let this cause
you to think they are inspired or even worthy of your time to read them. Jude
is simply referencing books that were well-known in this time to make a point
about faithfulness and the danger of rebelling against God. By including these quotes, he is saying
that they are correct. I know this sounds strange but truthfully, he is not the
only writer in Scripture to include outside sources in his work. Paul does it
in Acts 17 when he was preaching on Mar’s Hill to the Greek philosophers. In
Acts 17:28 he quotes two well-known Greek philosophers the first being
“Epimedes of Crete” and then one by Aratus called “Phainomena.” Neither man is
saying these writers are inspired or that what they wrote is always true. They
are simply saying that this specific reference is true. The person “Jude” is a brother of James
(Jude 1) which would mean that he is also a brother of Jesus Christ. In the
Greek, his name is “Judas” and in the Hebrew his name would be “Judah.” In
Matthew 13:55 Judah is mentioned as a brother of Jesus. From the gospels we
know that both James and Jude doubted Jesus’ claims as the Messiah. However,
both men because devout believers after the resurrection and went on to be
leaders in the early Church. Jude and James were likely in the “Upper Room” in
Acts 1:12-14. Beyond this we do not know much about Jude which says that he did
not leverage his family connection to Jesus to grab for power or influence. As
he says in verse 1, he was a servant of Jesus Christ and that was enough. In his letter, Jude says he was eager to
write about their common salvation but after finding out about their struggles
with false teacher he decided it was more important to encourage them to
“Contend for the Faith.” He says that these false teachers had crept in
unnoticed and were perverting the gospel and grace of our Lord Jesus causing
some to indulge their sinful desires and by doing so were denying Jesus Christ. Do not miss this point! Jude is saying that
giving into your sinful desires is an act that denies Jesus. He wrote to warn
them of the dangers these false teachers were creating for them. To listen to
them could cost you everything, even your own salvation. The purpose of Jude’s letter encourages
them to earnestly “Contend for the faith” as delivered to the saints. Note that
the message of Jesus was fully delivered to the saints. By extension this means
that it did not need anything more added to it and anything that is added to it
is to be rejected as false. Jude encourages his readers to remain faithful to
Jesus and our faith by rejecting such false teachings and living godly lives.
He gives us 6 examples to remind us of the dangers of rejecting or rebelling
against God. He says that we should not follow the example of Israel coming out
of Egypt, the angels who tried to have more authority and power, and the people
of Sodom and Gomorrah who indulged their sexual desires. He also reminds us of
Cain who killed his brother, Balaam who was greedy for more money, and Korah
who rebelled against Moses because he wanted to be in charge. Indulging your sinful desires and rejecting
God’s words never works out well. The little letter of Jude, although small,
carries a big punch and teaches us that faithfulness is always the right path
to follow in life. Let me encourage you to read again this little letter and
contemplate it great lessons. |
- Jeff Arnette preaches for the Central Haywood church of Christ,
Clyde, NC. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: https://centralhaywoodcoc.com/ |
Sunday, March 19, 2023
Are You “In Love” With Your Brethren?
By Edd
Sterchi It has been said that you should never fall
in love with a tennis player – to them, love means nothing. Love should mean
something to us. Love is an important concept to God and it should be to us, as
well. A common phrase we use is “in love” meaning
that we are in a state of strong emotional attachment with someone. Well, I
believe that Christians should be “in love” with one another. Doing a search of
the phrase “in love” in our English Bibles reveals some interesting things concerning
Christians’ relationship with each another (note: the following verses are based
upon the NKJV). *
“bearing with one another in love” (Eph. 4:2). This means that we are patient
with one another – that we are always there for them. *
“edifying...in love” (Eph. 4:15). To edify means to “build up.” We should
always be endeavoring to uplift and encourage our brethren. *
“walk in love” (Eph. 5:2). What is meant by walking is a way of life. Our way of life ought to be that of caring
for and expressing love for one another. *
“esteem...very highly in love” (1 Thess. 5:13). We should prefer one another
and honor one another because we love one another. If
we properly operate “in love” with one another, we can see some benefits, as
well. *
“Being knit together in love” (Col. 2:2). We will grow closer together with the
special love bond we have in Christ. *
“abound in love to one another” (1 Thess. 3:12). Our love will grow in
intensity and be so abundant that it will literally know no bounds. |
- Edd Sterchi preaches for the Broadway Church of Christ in
Campbellsville, KY. He may be contacted through the congregation's
website: http://www.broadwaychurchofchrist.net/ |
A Fishing Story
By Adam Faughn There is an old sermon illustration that I have heard used a
handful of times, but I have never been able to run down where it originated.
So, please know that the following is a summary of ow I remember it being told.
If you know where it is originally from, I would love to find out because it
drives home a powerful concept. ----- One day, a man decided
to fish. He got a simple pole, line, and hook and went to a local creek. He was
not successful at first, but he enjoyed the time in nature, so he went again.
After a few trips, he caught his first fish. A few trips later, he had caught
more. After a time, the
man had gained quite a reputation for knowing how to catch fish, so people came
to see him do it. While he did not catch fish every time he went, he was
usually successful, plus he loved to talk about fishing. It had become a
passion for him. People started wanting to hear him speak about the techniques
he used and where the best fishing spots were. Time passed and
the man became truly renowned in the fishing world. He was asked to speak at
fishing seminars. He wrote books and articles on fishing. He even offered an
online class on the modern techniques of fishing. His knowledge was impeccable,
as he stayed up-to-date with the latest innovations in fishing gear, fishing
technology, and fishing techniques. He was basically unparalleled in the
fishing world for giving people information on fish. Amazingly, the man
created such a furor that an entire fishing university was created, and people
filled their minds in courses such as "Angler 101" and
"Line-Baiting Symposium." They graduated with degrees in fishology
and were now filled with all sorts of information. But, through it
all, there was one thing that was no longer happening. The man who was such an
expert on fishing simply did not have the time anymore...to fish. He had not
been in years. He had the information and stayed up to date, but he had not put
a hook in the water for a long, long time. Thus, he had not even attempted to
actually catch a fish in many years. So, while the
world was now full of people who knew the information about fishing, what was
missing? People who fished. ----- ThatBut if all we ever do is talk about it,
we are not doing what we are talking about. Go fishing! Even
if you do not "catch" a soul, your loving effort is what God blesses.
Who do you need to talk to, even today? "Go into all
the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation." (Mark 16:15) |
- Adam Faughn preaches for
the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY. He may be contacted through the
congregation's website: http://www.centralchurchofchrist.org Visit the Faughn Family blog, A Legacy of Faith. |
“What Would You Give?”
By
Bill Brandstatter Suppose someone were to tell you that if you
cut off your little finger, you could have everything you could possibly want
or need? If you need a new car, you could have it. If you need a new house,
pick one, there is no price limit. Whatever you want in this world could be
yours, if you just cut off your right finger. Would you do it? Suppose the
offer was extended to include your right arm, your eyes and your ears, would
you still do it? Many would say “no” at some point, yet there are many people
that are giving up something more valuable for a whole lot less. Jesus poses
this question: “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world,
and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”
(Matt. 16:26 NKJV) Our soul is the most valuable item we possess. There is no price tag attached to it. It is valuable because it goes on beyond the grave. We cannot take our material possessions with us. (1 Tim. 6:7) We will take our souls with us. So, the value of it is far greater than anything this world has to offer. To lose our soul would be worse than losing our material possessions in a fire, earthquake, or storm. Our
soul is valuable because of its source. Man has given us many things; God has
given us our soul. Ezekiel, acting as a spokesman for God stated, “Behold all
souls are mine.” (Eze. 18:4) Our material possessions belong to us. Our souls
belong to God. Paul adds to this by stating, “Glorify God in your body, and in
your spirit, which are God’s. (1 Cor. 6:20) God breathed life into man, and man
became a living soul. (Gen. 1:27) Since that time every soul belongs to God. Our soul is valuable because each of us are of the same value. Material possessions differ with the individual, but each of us has a soul. The value of each soul is the same. The value is not determined by gender, education, or ethnicity. Where we live makes no difference. In Christ, the soul of each person has the same value. (Gal. 3:26-29) Let
us consider how valuable we are to God, not man. Man’s value is based on looks,
money, prestige, and class status. God’s value is placed on our soul’s
relationship with Him. Let us make sure we have the right relationship with
God, and the soul’s value will be clearly seen when Heaven is our home. |
- Bill Brandstatter preaches for the Marion Church of Christ in
Marion, IL. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://marionchurchofchrist.com/ |
Repairs Needed
By David
A. Sargent Jim Corley met his friend, Alex, at the
dealership where Alex worked. “Jim, I feel like a hypocrite every time I
go to church because I fail to live for Christ so often.” “Alex, what do you call this part of the
dealership?” Jim asked, nodding to the area outside his cubicle. “You mean the showroom?” “Yes. And what’s behind the showroom, past
the parts counter?” “The service department,” Alex said
confidently. “What if I told you I didn’t want to bring
my car to the service department because it was running rough,” Jim asked. “That would be crazy! That’s the whole
point of service departments — to fix cars that aren’t running right.” “You’re absolutely right,” Jim replied.
“Now, let’s get back to our initial conversation. Instead of thinking of church
as a showroom where image is everything, start thinking of it as God’s service
department. Helping people get back in running order with God is what the
church is all about.” * We are all in need of repairs, “for all
have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). But God loves us and wants to “fix us” –
from the inside out. The finished
product will resemble His glorious Son.
“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of
the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just
as by the Spirit of the Lord” (2 Corinthians 3:18). In
order to cleanse us and make us whole, God sent His one and only Son Jesus to
die on the cross for our sins (John 3:16; Romans 5:8). God will cleanse, make whole, and give
eternal life to those who place their faith and trust in Jesus (Acts 16:30-31),
turn from their sins in repentance (Acts 17:30-31), confess Jesus before men
(Romans 10:9-10), and are baptized (immersed) into Christ for the forgiveness
of sins (Acts 2:38). He will continue to
cleanse from sin those who continue to walk in the light of His Word (1 John
1:7-9). When we rise from the waters of baptism in
the new birth, God adds us to the church, His family (Acts 2:41). In God’s family, we find encouragement,
correction, forgiveness, and other components of a needed support system to
keep us “running” well. “Bring
Christ your broken life So
marred by sin. He
will create anew Make
whole again.” --
Thomas O. Chisholm Remember,
the church is not a showroom; it’s God’s service department. Come to Christ and into His church so that He
can make you whole. |
- David A. Sargent, minister for the Church of Christ at Creekwood
in Mobile, Alabama, is also the editor of an electronic devotional entitled
"Living Water." To learn more about this excellent resource
contact David via their website: http://www.creekwoodcc.org *
Source: Choice Contemporary Stories and Illustrations For Preachers, Teachers,
and Writers, Craig Brian Larson as quoted by www.ministry127.com. |
A Strait Is Seldom Straight!
By Joe
Slater “Strait is the gate and narrow is the
way which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” (Matthew 7:14,
KJV). The expression “strait and narrow” has
become proverbial in reference to careful compliance with the rules given by
parents or by God. However, most mistakenly understand it as “straight and
narrow.” The spelling difference is subtle, but the change in meaning is
radical! A “strait” (without the g-h) is seldom
straight. Look at the Strait of Magellan or the Strait of Hormuz on a map.
They’re anything but straight! Guiding a ship through those straits takes
plenty of zigzagging along a difficult and narrow route! They’re called “straits”
because they’re difficult, not because they go from point “a” to point “b”
without deviation. Many other Scriptures teach us not to
deviate from God’s word, but “strait” in Matthew 7:14 isn’t making that point.
The path to eternal life is narrow and difficult! By contrast, the way to
destruction is wide and easy (7:13). Most people find wide and easy to be appealing.
Comparatively few put forth the effort to travel the narrow, difficult path. But wait! Doesn’t the majority rule? That
sounds very American! How can the majority of people be wrong? Isn’t it
arrogant to say that? Well, we didn’t say it – Jesus did. A
majority of Jesus’ own people (the Jews) rejected Him. Despite the thousands
who became Christians in Acts, vastly more rejected the gospel. This is nothing
new; God has always operated with a remnant. Are you on that narrow way? It’s difficult,
but the destination makes it more than worth the effort! |
- Joe Slater serves as minister of the Church of Christ in Justin,
TX. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://justinchurchofchrist.com |
Thursday, March 16, 2023
The Consequences of Sin
By
Andrew Beasley I am sure that most can relate to the
feeling in the pit of your stomach that arises when you are driving down the
road and maybe you have not checked your speedometer or paid close enough
attention to it, at least not until you zip past a police officer and see them
pull out behind you a few moments later. There is a sense of unease as you look
in your review mirror as you wait for those flashing blue and red lights to
turn on. In the same moment you likely find yourself glancing to make sure your
speed had dropped to where it always should have been. Those feelings of anxiousness are likely
undergirded by guilt, or potential guilt, at the fact that maybe you did break
the law and are going to be facing the consequences of doing so. There is never
anything pleasant about being disciplined or punished. In the case of speeding
the end result may be a hefty fine depending on how fast one was going, and the
annoyance of increased car insurance because of the mark against your record. If only the world, and in many ways
Christians, had the same fear of the consequences of sin. The truth of the
matter is that with many crimes committed against human governments, the
criminal can get away with their wrong doing if they are careful enough not to
get caught. With spiritual crimes there is no escaping the governing authority
that is God. There is nothing that escapes the view of a being so great that He
is aware of even the number of hairs growing on each one of our heads (Luke
12:7). As Christians we should always be working
to make sure no one is facing the flashing lights of God’s judgment on that
great day. |
- Andrew Beasley serves as
a minister with the Northwest Church of Christ in Greensboro, NC. He may be
contacted through the congregation's website: https://nwchurchofchrist.com/about/
|
The Lamb Of God
By Al Behel “These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall
overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are
with him are called, and chosen, and faithful” (Revelation 17:14) John the Baptist
referred to Jesus as the Lamb of God (John 1:29, 36). The book of Revelation
tells us that the Lamb that was slain is worthy to receive honor and praise
(Revelation 5:12). He is worthy because His blood cleanses us and makes us free
from sin. He is worthy because He overcomes our enemies. He is worthy because
He is “King of kings, and Lord of lords.” As the church of our
Lord we await His return as a bride waits for her wedding day. Therefore, “Let
us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is
come, and his wife has made herself ready” (Revelation 19:7). Sometimes we lose
heart. Sometimes we become discouraged and are impatient. But, the wedding is
coming. The Lamb will return and He will be victorious over all the enemies.
Our battle is not ours, but His. We win because He wins. Although church bells
had not been heard in the freedom-starved nation of Czechoslovakia in 45 years,
at noon on November 27, 1989 every church bell in the country began to ring out
as the atheistic and tyrannical governments of Eastern urope suddenly
disintegrated. A sign placed on the front lawn of a church building in Prague
said it all. It read simply, “The Lamb Wins.” The gentleness and
compassion of Jesus is portrayed as a Lamb. But, let us not forget that this
same Lamb is Judge of all mankind. He is the ultimate conqueror of all who
oppose Him. No enemy can stand before Him. Nations will rise and nations will
fall, but the Kingdom of God stands forever. On the final day there will be no
doubt. There will be no opposition. Every knee will bow and every tongue will
confess that Jesus is Lord to the glory of God the Father. |
The Lord's Supper
By Dan Bailey
It is good for us to study and meditate upon the memorial of the Lord's
Supper. At one time in Corinth, the apostle Paul had to rebuke the brethren for
intermingling the Lord's Supper with a common meal. God expects our worship to
be according to His Word, and to be spiritual in nature. Paul wrote the church
in Corinth saying: "When ye come together therefore into one place, this
is not to eat the Lord's supper. For in eating every one taketh before other
his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken. What? have ye not
houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them
that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise
you not" (I Corinthians 11:20-22).
Paul was not condemning Christians for partaking of a common meal
together, but he was condemning the intermingling of that meal with worship.
Paul's purpose was to keep the common meal separate and distinct from the
worship service. Sometimes Christians gather together for a common meal in a
home, a restaurant, or somewhere on the church property. There is nothing at
all sinful with this. However, it should be distinct from our worship services.
Paul went on to say, "For I have received of the Lord that which
also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was
betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take,
eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.
After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This
cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in
remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do
shew the Lord's death till he come" (I Corinthians 11:23-26).
When Jesus said of the bread, "Take eat: this is my body," He
was not saying that the bread really, that is, literally, became His body. But
rather that it was symbolic of His body, or represented or stood for, His body.
The bread brings to our memory the precious body of our Lord that was suspended
between heaven and earth upon the old rugged cross.
The cup mentioned in I Corinthians 11:25, meant the contents of the cup,
or the fruit of the vine. There are some who believe that Christ meant for His
disciples to use only one physical cup while partaking of the Lord's Supper.
This is to confuse the container with that which is in the container. Whether
we use one physical cup or many, does not effect the contents of the cup. Jesus
said, "...This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as
ye drink it, in remembrance of me" (I Corinthians 11:25). The cup is not
literally blood, but it represents, or is symbolic of the blood, of the Lamb of
God. When Jesus instituted the Lord's
Supper, He said, "For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed
for many for the remission of sins" (Matthew 26:28). When we partake of the Lord's Supper we do so
in remembrance of His death. "For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink
this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come" (I Corinthians 11:26).
To partake of the Lord's Supper "unworthily" has reference to
the manner or disposition of heart while partaking of the supper. Each person
is to "examine himself" and to "discern the Lord's body."
To discern the Lord's body is to make the proper separation or distinction
between the common meal, common things, and spiritual worship. If there is no
separation of the two, then Christ is not properly set apart or honored in our
hearts. Our worship needs to be as directed from God's Word. The final thought from Albert Barnes enumerates reasons why one should examine himself before taking the Lord's Supper. --
|
The Foolishness of God
By Brian
Mitchell Students in a psychology class at San Diego
State College were asked to name their most valuable personal asset. 2 wrote
down intelligence, both of them misspelled it. Winston Lord, former assistant Secretary
of State and ambassador to China, told of a time when he and his wife were
driving outside of Beijing. They came across a Buddhist temple and the head
monk came out to greet him. His eyes lit up when he learned that Lord was an
ambassador and that his wife Betty was a famous author. The monk then asked
Lord if he would do this temple a great honor which would benefit future
visitors, to guide and instruct them. He then asked him to write something in
English. Obviously, the ambassador and his wife were quite honored and the monk
then handed them two wooden plaques and said, “Would you write in English on
the plaque the word Ladies and on this plaque the word Gentlemen?” Many people
like them think of themselves as being quite intelligent (and they are usually
quite annoying to the few of us who are). Many perceive themselves as quite
intelligent and are often quite embarrassed to find out they either did not
know as much as they thought they knew or that their perceived intelligence was
not as important to others as it was to them. One of the greatest advantages of
my studies is the fact that the more I learn the more I realize I have to learn. The church at Corinth was undergoing a
similar realization and they were having a difficult time coming to grips with
this new reality. They, like many living in metropolitan areas of the 1st
Century, prided themselves on their knowledge and felt as though they had
everything figured out. Yet, here comes God in their lives and He is doing
things in ways they just cannot comprehend. To them the ways of God are foolish
because He was acting in ways that were contrary to what they believed to be
the best of human wisdom. Paul in this text demonstrates to them and us that there is
nothing wrong with the wisdom of God, for it is infinite in nature. The problem
is with man’s wisdom. Man and God think differently—Is.55:8-9. Thus, if man and
God see things differently, the problem does not lie in the wisdom of doing
things God’s way, it lies in our ability to understand the wisdom of doing
things God’s way. Paul concludes this passage by putting man
in his proper place. How? By stating that even the foolishness of God is wiser
than the wisdom of man and that the weakness of God is stronger than the strength
of man. It does not matter how wise we become—God is wiser. It does not matter
what man achieves in his own power—God is more powerful. There is a day coming when those who have
refused the wisdom of God will say, I should have chosen His way and not mine.
I should have trusted His wisdom and not mine. The only question will be; what
will you say? |
- Brian Mitchell serves as a
minister with the Jackson Church of Christ in Jackson, MO. He may be contacted
through the congregation's website at https://www.jacksonchurchofchrist.netg |
Guidelines for Generous Giving
By
Edd Sterchi I don’t know how many times I have had
someone come up to me and ask, “How much should I be giving?” That’s always a
tough question to answer, for it is indeed dependent upon many things. Under the Old Law, the tithe was the
standard giving amount for the faithful child of God. This consisted of ten
percent of the gross amount of one’s produce and/or earnings (cf. Lev.
27:30-32; Deut. 24:32). But the Old Law was nailed to the cross, and we are no
longer bound by those regulations (Col. 2:14). Under the New Covenant, Christians are to
give, to make their offering to God, in an individual, regular, predetermined,
and proportional manner (see 1 Cor. 16:2 as an example of all of these). But
that still does not answer the question of how much of one’s income one is
supposed to give. Is it 5%, 10%, 25%, etc.? In actuality, everybody’s situation
varies so much that God has left it up to each person to determine the amount
to give. But we also need to note this: God knows when we do not give the
proper amount or with the proper attitude. Too many times we may look at giving as
determining the smallest amount we can get away with, or possibly discovering
what spare change or small bills we can find in our pocket, purse, or wallet.
Maybe we should look at it as determining how much we can give back to God.
Given that thought, here are some guidelines for generous giving: * Give as much as you want to receive
back from the Lord. In Luke 6:38, Jesus told His disciples that they would
receive back from God in direct proportion to how much they gave (see also 2
Cor 9:6). So look at giving to God as a “down payment” on the blessings you
will receive from Him. * Give as much as you love the Lord and
His people. The Macedonian brethren are set forth as an example of generous
giving in 2 Cor. 8:1-5. Even in their poverty, they gave abundantly, because
they loved God and knew that their giving was a part of fellowshiping with His
people. So look at giving to God as a demonstration of your love and appreciation
for Him and what He has done for you. * Give as much as you want to see the
Lord’s church do. In 2 Cor. 9:8-14, the Corinthian Christians are commended for
their generous giving which helped the work of the church, specifically in the spreading
of the gospel and in benevolence to the needy. So look at giving as a
declaration of what you would like to see this congregation of the Lord’s
church do in His name. It is also important to note that we can
and should give of our time and talents as well as of our treasure to the Lord.
But when it comes down to the giving of our means that the Lord has blessed us
with, remember that our giving is a down payment on future blessings from God,
a demonstration of our passion for Him, and a declaration of how influential we
want His church to be. |
- Edd Sterchi preaches for
the Broadway Church of Christ in Campbellsville, KY. He may be contacted
through the congregation's website: http://www.broadwaychurchofchrist.net/ |
Sunday, March 5, 2023
Everyone
By Lance
Cordle People who saw the animated feature film
“Beauty and the Beast” will undoubtedly remember the song with the same title
as the movie, performed by Peabo Bryson and Celine Dion. Since that time, the
name of Celine Dion has been related to great music and her voice has been
admired by many people. She has performed concerts throughout the world and
sold millions of records. It has not been unusual to hear her name in the news
over the past few years as well. In December of 2022, Celine announced she had
been diagnosed with the rare disorder known as Stiff-Person Syndrome. It is a
painful neurological disorder and there is no cure for it. Celine is fifty-eight
years old and her career is in jeopardy because of this condition. In fact,
numerous concerts she had planned for the coming months have had to be
cancelled. What is interesting to observe is the fact
that most people would easily describe Celine Dion as a privileged and
successful person, and have been shocked to learn that she is dealing with such
a serious disorder. However, what this situation reveals is that everyone,
including celebrities, deals with some sort of serious personal issue on a
daily basis. As you greet the first person in your list of encounters of the
day, it would not be unheard for that person to have a serious illness, a death
in the family, or an emotional or physical handicap. Many other possibilities
could be given and various ones with whom you come into contact daily would be
dealing with them. Job is of course correct in his assessment
of the human condition “Man who is born of a woman is of few days and full of
trouble” (Job 14:1). No doubt, we are aware of our own issues and troubles, and
want people to be kind to us in their interactions with us. Why not return the
favor and assume that everyone you meet is in the process of dealing with
emotional or physical trauma and treat them with kindness? If you knew the cashier at the grocery
store had just experienced the death of a loved one, would you not treat them
with courtesy and consideration? If you knew that your supervisor or employer
had just been diagnosed with cancer, would you be as quick to criticize them?
If you knew your coworker was in a troubled marriage, would you be cruel in
your treatment of them? Long ago, Jesus gave us the perfect way to
deal with people who are facing personal crises. It is “built” for the
possibility of encountering someone who is hurting. Here is the formula: “So,
whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them . . .” (Matthew
7:12) We call it the Golden Rule and it still
works . . . for everyone. |
- Lance Cordle preaches the
Calvert City Church of Christ in Calvert City, KY. He may be contacted
through the congregation's website: http://www.calvertchurchofchrist.com |
Be an Apollos
By Edd Sterchi In Acts 18:24-28, we are introduced to a
Christian names Apollos. He was a great example in spreading the word of God.
We can certainly learn from His ways. Notice for example: * He
was mighty in the Scriptures (v.24). He knew the Word of God, but it is also
important to note that he was always willing to learn them more accurately
(v.26). * He
was eloquent (v.24). He spoke in a manner that people wanted to hear what he had
to say. * He
was fervent in spirit (v.25). He was always excited about telling God’s truths. * He
spoke boldly (v.26). He was courageous in presenting the Word of God. He never
backed down from the truth. * He
always proved his point (v.28). He used the Scriptures to establish that what
he was speaking was from God. |
- Edd Sterchi preaches for
the Broadway Church of Christ in Campbellsville, KY. He may be contacted
through the congregation's website: http://www.broadwaychurchofchrist.net/ |
When is “The Truth” the Truth?
By
Bill Brandstatter Some investigations are going on about
classified documents. One investigation concerns former President Donald Trump.
The other one concerns current President Joe Biden. Both claim they did nothing
wrong; however, others are claiming they did. What is the truth? The truth is what is known. Jesus stated,
“You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32)
Every person can know that saving truth the same way. There can be no doubt
about it. We have it in writing. God desires that all men be saved and come to
knowledge of the truth. (1 Tim. 2:4). In our world of relative morality, we can
know for certainty that there is a standard that is reliable. We must use the
right authoritative standard in determining what is known. The truth is what is proclaimed. Often, we
don’t want to hear the truth. When Felix heard the truth from Paul, he
trembled. Later Paul wrote, “Have I therefore become your enemy because I tell
you the truth?” (Gal. 4:16) Paul was just a messenger. Today we need to proclaim
the truth in love. (Eph. 4:15) We need to love God and love our fellow man
enough for the message of truth to reach their hearts. The truth is what is written. This follows
the other two points quite well. This is a well-known fact. “Put it in writing”
is often a statement made to ensure security. When we buy anything, it is
always good to put it in writing. I still request this today when I get a call
of solicitation. God wanted His Word written down. Paul assures us of the
veracity of that which was written before in Rom. 15:4. God had the Old
Testament written for “our admonition.” (1 Cor. 10:11) Peter assured his
listeners that what was written by the prophets was truthful and was being
fulfilled. (Acts 3:24) Jesus mentioned that the prophecies written about Him
were being fulfilled. In Luke 24:44 our Lord stated, “All things must be
fulfilled that were written in the Law of Moses, and the Prophets, and the
Psalm concerning me.” (NKJV). The written truth must be looked at and used
correctly. Paul told Timothy the truth must be divided correctly. (2 Tim. 3:15)
Often today the truth on any matter may be shaded to fit a particular platform
or agenda. Could that happen with the Bible as well? We can know the truth about our salvation
and what God’s will for us is today. We need not trust any source other than
the word of God. God wants us to know it. We don’t need to doubt it. It can
save us and put us in eternity with Him. Jesus said “Sanctify them by your
truth. Your word is truth.” (John
17:17 NKJV) |
- Bill Brandstatter preaches for the Marion Church
of Christ in Marion, IL. He may be contacted through the congregation's
website: http://marionchurchofchrist.com/ |
God in Our Image
By Ronald Bartanen The Bible teaches that God made man in His own
image (Gen. 1`:26-27), but man seems intent on making God into man’s
image. We care less about agreeing with
God and conforming to His laws than we are about imposing our own standards
that are more politically correct. The Bible presents God as the one supreme
being, Creator of heaven and earth,, and all therein. He is the living God, with ears to hear and
hands to help. This God is holy,
almighty, all-wise, all-powerful, and ever present. See such scriptures as Acts 17:23-29 and
14:15; Mark 12:29; 1 Timothy 6:15; 1 Peter 1:15, 16 and 1 John 4:8. Further, God is “Judge of all,” but also
the Savior of men and women who come to Him through Jesus Christ (Romans 2:16
and Titus 3:4-6). He is the one God of
both the Old and New Testaments. He may
not be the God everybody feels comfortable with. Some dislike His laws. Some do not want to answer to anyone for
their deeds, especially the One who knows their hearts. Some would prefer to serve a god tailor-made
by denominational and cultic creeds and dogmas, rather than the true God whose
truths are set forth by inspired apostles and prophets in holy Scripture (1
Timothy 3:16-17). Making God in our
image is nothing short of idolatry. Let’s cease making God in our image. It just won’t work! |
- Ronald Bartanen is a
retired minister who for many years served the Lord's church in Illinois,
Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee. After the passing of his beloved
wife, Doris, Ron has relocated from Illinois to Florida where he is near
family. He may be contacted at: ron33dor@yahoo.com |
Taking Inventory
By Joe Slater Businesses may take
inventory at the first of the year for tax purposes or to see if the company
was profitable last year. What about you and me? How did we do last year? What
adjustments do we need to make? Several matters call for an inventory: 1. Bible study (not just
reading, but study). Both public and private study instill God’s word into our
hearts. We ought to be known as walking Bibles! It can be so, but not without
serious Bible study. 2. Prayer. “You do not
have because you do not ask” (James 4:3). “Pray without ceasing” (1
Thessalonians 5:17). Need we say more? 3. Attendance. Satan has
used the pandemic to condition us into thinking in-person attendance is a mere option.
For the truly ill, watching the service on an electronic device is helpful. I
know that by experience! Nevertheless, when healthy, active people simply
choose not to show up, Scripture calls it sin (Hebrews 10:26). Lame excuses,
justifications, and rationalizations will never solve this! 4. Giving. God doesn’t
“need” anything from us (Acts 17:25). Giving has always been an indication of
love for God. The poorest Jew under the Law gave ten percent of his gross
income (not what was left after paying the bills). Most Jews gave a good deal
more. Under the New Covenant we are to give as God has prospered us (1
Corinthians 16:2). How would your income be affected if God prospered you in
proportion to the generosity of your giving? 5. Good works. You can
name dozens of bad things you haven’t done. That’s great? Now, what good works have
you done? That’s one purpose God has for you in Christ (Ephesians 2:10). It’s time to take
inventory! |
- Joe Slater serves as minister of the Church of Christ in Justin,
TX. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://justinchurchofchrist.com |