A “Life Lesson” at an Intersection

 

By Jim Faughn     A few days ago, I observed what I consider to be one of those “life lessons” we hear about from time to time. I suppose that it would be more accurate to say that I observed something and considered it to be a life lesson.     As I was making my way to see some of our members who are in a nursing home, I noticed that, some distance in front of me, there was a vehicle that was clearly identified as one that belonged to our local sheriff’s department. I don’t know if the sheriff or one of his deputies (or maybe even somebody else from his office) was driving, but there was no doubt about what kind of vehicle it was.     There was also no doubt about what I saw. I watched as the vehicle approached an intersection. This particular intersection is one at which one of our church members was involved in a terrible collision a few years ago. At that time, somebody ignored the same red light as the one this sheriff’s vehicle was approaching. The result that time was that a young husband and two young children lost their wife and mother.      The other day, I watched as the light turned from green to yellow. It did not appear to me that the driver was slowing down at all. I continued to watch as the light turned red before this vehicle “sailed right through the intersection.” The light was just as clearly red as were the clear markings on the vehicle associated with an agency that is supposed to enforce the law.     I have a couple of reasons for thinking that there was no real reason for somebody connected to law enforcement to ignore the law. First, neither the lights nor the siren were ever turned on. Second, the driver must not have saved much time because a few miles later, I saw the same vehicle arriving at a convenience store (again with no lights or siren).      As I watched all of that unfold, I thought about how the behavior of people in positions of authority and/or influence has an impact on others. The immediate thought that went through my mind was something like, “Why should I be concerned about obeying traffic laws when you don’t?” A little more reflection has caused me to think less about the person in the vehicle and more about the guy I see in the mirror.     As I’ve continued to think about the incident and the “life lessons” I’ve come up with, I’ve realized that all of us – to one extent or another – are in positions of authority and/or influence. We may not wear a badge or have some official title, but our behavior does have an impact on others.     I thought about making a list of all of the “hats” I’ve worn and am currently wearing during my lifetime. I’m not really sure I could come up with a complete list. I am really sure, however, that the longer that list would get, the more I would be impressed with the fact that people are watching me. How I do (or do not) act, react, speak, etc. may have more of an impact than I can imagine.     Beyond that, each of us may be having an impact on people we may never know and in ways we do not know. I seriously doubt that the driver of that vehicle even paid attention to the vehicle who was pretty far behind him and in a different lane than the one in which he was driving. He probably was just “going about his day.”     We all do that. We all “just go about our days.” As we do, we may be thoughtlessly giving other people the impression that the rules that apply to them do not apply to us.      To use a “play on words,” all of our lives intersect with other people – usually several times a day. Have you ever thought about what other people see at those intersections?     You may remember that, as Luke is inspired to begin the book we know as “Acts of the Apostles,” he refers to “…all that Jesus began to do and teach” (Acts 1:1). I know that I am far from the first to suggest the significance of the order of the two words “do” and “teach.” There are a lot of implications about that order.     I’m also not the first to suggest that there was a perfect harmony in what Jesus did and what He said. There was nothing about Him that “sent mixed signals.”      I’m just suggesting that each one of us would do well to follow the example of the One who went to the cross instead of the one who went to the convenience store.

- Jim Faughn serves as and elder for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY. Be sure to visit the following for more great articles: Faughn Family blog, A Legacy of Faith

Chance or Opportunity

 

By Joe Slater     Does God give you chances, or does He provide opportunities? We sometimes treat those words as synonyms, but their meanings are quite different! Chance indicates something random, uncertain, even accidental – a roll of the dice, as it were. You have no way to influence the outcome.     Opportunity, by contrast, implies that you play a role in choosing a course of action. You may choose wisely or foolishly, but it remains your choice. It is neither random nor accidental.     Some things do, indeed, happen by chance. Solomon wrote by inspiration, “Time and chance happen to them all” (Ecclesiastes 9:11). Sometimes our plans don’t work out no matter what we do. We didn’t plan to become ill or be laid off from work, but it happened. Such is life.     But not everything is subject to chance. God can and does provide opportunities. Paul urged the Galatians to “do good to all” as they had opportunity (Galatians 6:10). He understood when material support from the church at Philippi was delayed: “You surely did care, but you lacked opportunity” (Philippians 4:10).     Our salvation depends not on chance, but on how we use the opportunity God has provided in Christ. Acts 14:27 refers to it as God opening “the door of faith.” As one chooses whether to walk through an open door, so we choose whether to trust Jesus and obey His gospel. This is neither random nor accidental.     Your eternal destiny depends not on chance, but on what you choose to do with the opportunities God has given to you.

- 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

The Wheelbarrow in the Garage

 

Bob Prichard     Traveling evangelist Billy Sunday (1862-1935) once said, “Going to church don’t make anybody a Christian, any more than taking a wheelbarrow into a garage makes it an automobile.” There is plenty of truth here. The land is filled with church-going people who are less than they should be. They claim to be Christians, but their lives don’t show it. In The Scarlet Letter, Nathaniel Hawthorne said that “No man, for any considerable period, can wear one face to himself, and another to the multitude, without finally getting bewildered as to which may be the true.” The hypocritical life eventually catches up with even the most skillful of hypocrites.     Just “going to church” will not make anyone a Christian, but neither does staying away from church make anyone any better. There are hypocrites at church each Sunday morning, but there are even bigger hypocrites staying home, pretending that what they are doing is more important than meeting with the saints for worship. Even if some of the saints seem more like “ain’ts,” why would anyone who claims to have any interest in the things of God not be in worship?     Hebrews 10:23-25 reminds us of our responsibilities in worship. “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” When we assemble together, we must consider one another by provoking to love and good works, as well as exhorting one another. Power words like “provoking” and “exhorting” indicates that this is serious business.     There’s more to the story, though. The verses immediately following in Hebrews 10 warn, “For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?” (10:26-29). It is a serious thing to forsake the assembly of the saints!

Bob Prichard serves as an elder and evangelist for the Hillview Church of Christ in Birmingham, Alabama, since 2016. In his forty-five years of preaching he has served churches in Tennessee, North Carolina, and Alabama.

Lacking Nothing

By Clifton Angel “For the Lord your God has blessed you in all the work of your hand. He knows your trudging through this great wilderness. These forty years the Lord your God has been with you; you have lacked nothing” (Deut 2:7, NKJV).     God chose Moses to bring the children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage. By God’s power, Moses did just that. God promised the children of Israel that he would grant them possession of a wonderful land flowing with milk and honey. However, the children of Israel hindered themselves through disobedience, fear, lack of trust, and ungratefulness. Therefore, the first generation that came out of Egyptian bondage was not allowed into the promised land; rather, they all (except Joshua & Caleb) died within the 40-year wilderness wanderings per God’s righteous execution of judgement. It was their children that were brought near to the Jordan, taught by Moses, and lead into the land by Joshua (cf. Exodus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, and Joshua). On the occasion that our passage (Deut 2:7) was spoken, the second generation was being prepared by Moses for entrance led by Joshua. Moses was reminding and informing them of their fathers’ prior events, reminding of God’s law, and giving them new revelation of their responsibilities. In the midst of his words, Moses reminded them, “God has been with you; you have lacked nothing” (Deut 2:7).     Backing up to Deuteronomy 1:6 and following, it is evident that the children of Israel lacked nothing in the areas of God’s Word (1:6a), God’s promises (1:6b–8), God’s leadership (1:9–15), God’s training (1:16–18), God’s protection (1:19–33), God’s discipline (1:34–46), nor God’s provisions (2:1–7).     Today, if we are faithful members of the Lord’s body (His church, Colossians 1:18), we too can confidently say we lack nothing in all of these areas. Every area calls us to action and requires our efforts in order that we lack nothing; however, we are able to be supplied of our every need because of God! God’s faithful children lack nothing! Do you disagree? Are you confused? Would you like to understand how such could be so? If you feel that you are lacking something, maybe you are, and by God’s Word we can discover what it is and correct it, so that one day we can confidently say, “God has been with you; you have lacked nothing!”ß

- Clifton Angel preaches for the Coldwater Church of Christ in Coldwater, MS. He may be contacted through that congregation's website: http://www.coldwatercofc.com/

"Father, Forgive Them"

 

By Dan C. Bailey     When Jesus was upon the rugged cross of Calvary, He prayed for those who were responsible for His crucifixion saying, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do..." (Luke 23:34). The prayer came forth from the only sinlessly perfect man to ever live. It was prayed from a heart of love and spoken without malice. Yes, my friend, Jesus loved their souls and was concerned about their forgiveness.      On the first Pentecost after the resurrection of Christ, Peter told many of the same crowd to "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Acts 2:38). "Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls" (Acts 2:41).      Yes, Jesus prayed for their forgiveness and His prayer was answered when the people repented of their sins and were baptized into Jesus Christ. Let us never forget that forgiveness involves not only our Lord, but also ourselves. Jesus wants us to be forgiven just as much as ever. The only question is, are we willing to obey Him in all things? "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned" (Mark 16:16). "If ye love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15).

- Dan C. Bailey serves as a minister with the State Street Church of Christ in Bristol, VA. He may be contacted through the congregation's website at https://www.thelordsway.com/statestreetchurchofchrist/framedindex.asp?Group=Home

Blinded by the (Wrong) Light

 

By Jim Faughn
    Most who read this will be at least somewhat familiar with the experience that a man who was then known as Saul of Tarsus had as he traveled from Jerusalem to Damascus. If you are not familiar with this, you can read the original account recorded in the ninth chapter of Acts and recounted later by the man who was then known as Paul in the twenty-second and twenty-sixth chapter of that same book. Saul was making that trip in order to imprison and/or punish Christians.     All of that began to change when Saul saw an extremely bright light. The light was so bright that Saul lost his eyesight for three days. As those who have read this account know, the light that blinded him was the appearance of the One whose followers he was trying to forcefully discourage – and that’s a very kind way of expressing what Saul’s intentions were. Those early followers of Jesus were the recipients of almost unspeakable treatment from the man who went from being a notorious enemy of Jesus and His followers to being one of the Lord’s most influential ambassadors.    Saul’s experience on the road to Damascus is somewhat similar to an experience which Isaiah had centuries earlier. You can find that experience recorded in the sixth chapter of the book that bears his name. Like Saul, Isaiah was overwhelmed by something he saw. As he would write,…my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts! (Isaiah 6:5)Without getting too deep into similarities and differences, let me suggest the following:    In both instances, a man was overwhelmed by the majesty of Deity. This incredible experience humbled him. This,  in turn, led to a life of sacrificial service as an effective spokesman for God.    It is my opinion that it is tempting for some who claim to speak for God today to be blinded by a light. Unfortunately, however, that light seems to be a spotlight. That light can blind a person in so many ways and to so many things. When that happens to any of us, there is always the risk of becoming, as an old saying goes, legends in our own minds.    Helping people to know and understand the truth and wisdom that is found in God’s word is one thing. Allowing people (and maybe yourself) to think that you are the source of truth and wisdom is quite another thing. The spotlight all too often will not allow a person to see that difference.    The spotlight has the potential of ruining men who may have at one time actually been faithful servants of and spokesmen for God. The spotlight can blind a person to the dangers of religious error, immoral lifestyles, materialism, and a host of other things.      The man who saw that bright light on the road to Damascus and would be baptized in Damascus (Acts 22:16) would spend the rest of his life “…preaching the faith which he once tried to destroy.” (Gal. 1:23)    Paul’s “spiritual vision” was very clear. His concern was for those who heard his message. As he wrote of people whom he described as “lost” or “perishing,” he said this:    In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Cor. 4:4-6)    It seems to me that those who truly love the souls of people and their own souls would be well advised to read and carefully consider that.

- Jim Faughn serves as and elder for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY. Be sure to visit the following for more great articles: Faughn Family blog, A Legacy of Faith.

Another Look at Being Blinded by the (Wrong) Light

 

By Jim Faughn     Some who read this may have read a previous post of mine that dealt with what I believe may be a danger for those of us who preach and teach God’s word. The short version of what I wrote then is that there is the possibility that the fact that we are often “in the spotlight” can distort our message, our lives, and our eternal destiny.      This post is intended to “shed some light” (pun intended) on another dangerous issue. There are those who attempt to influence others by dazzling them with their personalities, their oratorical skills, impressive Hollywood style productions, and a host of other things. Those who experience their presentations are usually impressed with just that – the experience. When all of the theatrics and “fluff” is stripped away, there is just not much of a message at all. What may pass for a message is actually an effort to make the messenger look good and/or to make the hearer feel good.     You may remember an account from the Bible about a situation somewhat like that. You can find it recorded in Acts 12:21-23. A ruler known to history as Herod Agrippa I, but who is referred to in this text merely as Agrippa, was no friend of the early Christians. As we begin reading Acts 12, we find information about him having James, the brother of John, killed and having Peter imprisoned with the intention of also killing him.     As we come close to the end of the chapter, we read about a speech that Agrippa made. Interestingly though, we do not actually read about the speech. Instead, we find some information about how he looked and the impression that he made on the people.     All that the Bible tells us about is the appearance of Herod Agrippa as he spoke and the effect his appearance and presentation made on those in attendance. The text informs us that he was “…arrayed in royal apparel…” (Acts 12:21).     The Jewish historian, Josephus, provides more information. According to him, on occasions such as the one recorded in Acts 12, Herod wore a special garment made entirely of silver. He would position himself in such a way so as to reflect the rays of the sun and impress people. Apparently, as the sun rose, this reflection was extremely effective and, as the sun continued on its course across the sky, the color, intensity, etc. of the reflection would change and continue to impress.  If, in fact, this was the “royal apparel” worn by Herod on this day, it may go a long way in explaining why the people said, “…It is the voice of a god, and not of a man” (Acts 12:22).     I suppose that it could be said that this was the forerunner of present-day “light shows.” Then, as now, people seemed to be much more impressed with style than they were with substance. Just as speakers can be blinded by the spotlight, hearers can be blinded by nothing more than dazzle.       You may remember that things didn’t turn out so well for Herod on that occasion, though. As Luke continues his inspired narrative in Acts, we read these words: And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost. (Acts 12:23) We may not expect God today to punish in such a dramatic way those who are more interested in impressing people with themselves instead of encouraging them to honor God. At the same time, we can rest assured that… …God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. (1 Peter 5:5) Before we leave out consideration of Acts 12, we need to think seriously about these words; But the word of God grew and multiplied. (Acts 12:24) That information reminds me of something found in The Old Testament: For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. (Isaiah 55:10-11)     The focus must never be on us. Things like notoriety, popularity, acceptance, acclaim, and even monetary gain will mean absolutely nothing when we stand before the One who said twice, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12; 9:5).  All of us – especially those of us who preach and teach – would do well to remember that.     Those of us who listen to preachers and teachers need to do all we can to make sure that our lives are guided by always the consistent  “…light of the glorious gospel of Christ…” (2 Cor. 4:4) and not by something as inconsistent as a reflection that changes with the movement of the sun.

- Jim Faughn serves as and elder for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY. Be sure to visit the following for more great articles: Faughn Family blog, A Legacy of Faith.

No Longer A Threat

 By Jim Faughn

    I recently spent some time with a man that I’ve known off and on for over sixty years. He is about a year older than I am. We weren’t “pals” during our elementary school years because we attended two different schools. When we both got to the same high school, our age difference meant that we weren’t in many (if any) classes together. As I look back, I guess that about the only time we spent much time together in an organized way was when we were both Cub Scouts. That was a long time ago and only lasted a few years.

    As we were talking, I mentioned that, even though our mothers were very good friends and that we had a few other things in common, he and I never ran around together much. His response absolutely floored me. His response had nothing to do with the age difference or the fact that we went to different elementary schools. What he said was, “No, you went to church. You were a threat to me.”

    I didn’t understand that when he said it. I didn’t understand it when I asked him about his comment before we ended our conversation. His only response to my question about that was, “Well, you were.” He wasn’t angry or confrontational when he said that. He said that in a sort of matter of fact way. I guess that made sense to him, but I still haven’t quite figured that out.

    With all of that said, somebody who might have walked in on our conversation the other day probably would have thought that they were walking in on a conversation between two old friends. The ironic thing is that the people who may have thought that would have been correct in their assumption. Even though we have different backgrounds and have had only a few short interactions over the years, we are old and we are friends. 

    I’m fairly certain that the conversation the other day was the longest single experience in spending time together in decades. We spent some time getting caught up with what has happened in the lives of both of us over the years. We talked about some mutual friends that we had and have. Some time was spent talking about our old high school. Of course, at our age, we had to brag about our “kids” and grandchildren. 

    After a fairly long and enjoyable visit, we shook hands and promised to do our best to not make this the last time we got together. In fact, it is our intention to make this happen on a regular basis. As we were still shaking hands, my friend made a request that I gladly honored. He asked me to pray.

    I’m still not sure why going to church was such a threat all those years ago, but I’m glad that it is a distant memory. Apparently, that barrier no longer exists in any way. 

    I can make that last statement for a couple of reasons. First, my friend is now a “church goer.” I’m not sure when that started or how it happened, but what used to not be the case is now the case.

    The second reason for my confidence (and appreciation) about the fact that a barrier has been removed is that I was not the only one who honored a request that day. My friend honored a request that I made. 

    The result of that is that, when we can get our schedules “in sync,” I am going to have the opportunity to spend some time with a man who once saw me as a threat and study God’s word with him.

    I’m thinking that only God can make things like that happen.

- Jim Faughn serves as and elder for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY. Be sure to visit the following for more great articles: Faughn Family blog, A Legacy of Faith

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A Religious Equation

 

By Jim Faughn I discuss this, I will be reproducing the question and a portion of Dr. Mohler’s response from the transcript of the podcast. That transcript can be found at albertmohler.com.     The question as it is found in the transcript is… “And since the Bible doesn’t mention the denominations we presently have, how can any Christian identify with the denomination? The denomination of Christ seems the only appropriate label to me. Your thoughts?” My first thought is that my high school English teachers and university English professors would not be pleased with starting a sentence with a coordinating conjunction, but that is not what is important for this discussion. What I believe is important for this discussion is the following portion of Dr. Mohler’s response:     In the United States, as the late historian Sidney Mead said, “Denominationalism is the shape of Christianity in America.” And he helped to explain it in a way that I think is just extremely helpful. He said, “To understand why denominations exist in the United States, you just need to understand a matter of basic math.” And I have found this helpful ever since I first heard it when I was just a very young seminary student.     Sidney Mead said, “The math is this: Religious conviction plus religious liberty equals denomination,” If you’re in a situation in which there is no religious liberty, you can be told that the only acceptable form of Christianity is one that, for instance, believes is baptizing babies. And that’s exactly the situation that helped precipitate the American experiment in religious liberty.     What I find fascinating is that material is the “mathematical formula” suggested by Sidney Mead. I suppose that I had never before seen or heard a theological position expressed as an equation. At least I do not remember that ever being the case.     With that in mind, I respectfully suggest another “equation”: An open Bible plus an open mind equals unity in Christ. I may never have either the educational credentials or the notoriety of either of the men mentioned above. I do, however, remember what Jesus prayed shortly before going to the cross. Instead of accepting or maybe even promoting denominationalism or any sort of religious division, Jesus prayed this for all of His followers: that they all may be one… (John 17:21) I’m thinking that the one who asked Dr. Mohler the question was on to something. Don’t you?     I realize that some who read this may not be familiar with the name, Dr. Albert Mohler. Dr. Mohler is, among other things, the president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. Among those “other things” is hosting a podcast to which I listen on a fairly regular basis. The podcast deals with news items, various societal trends, etc. from his perspective as a religious leader. While some of the rest of this post may be enough evidence to suggest that I do not agree with some of his theology, I still find his “take” on things to be interesting.     One of the features of his podcast is that he will answer questions from those who contact him. On the podcast of April 19, 2024, Dr. Mohler received what I thought was an interesting question.

-  Jim Faughn serves as and elder for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY. Be sure to visit the following for more great articles: articles:  Faughn Family blog, A Legacy of Faith

Talking Season, The Hot Stove League, and The Person in the Mirror

 

By Jim Faughn
    Now that the college basketball season is over, I heard somebody describe this time of year as Talking Season. There are a variety of things going on about which most of us know very little or anything. Some of those things may make the news. The casual sports fan may know something about coaching changes, recruiting news, etc., but even a very ardent fan probably has no real idea about all that is going on behind the scenes. About all that most college basketball fans can do for the next few months is talk.     A part of the vocabulary of Major League Baseball is the term Hot Stove League. As I understand it, that term can refer to the time during the winter months when baseball executives meet, make trades, etc.     Another meaning of that term, though, is similar to basketball’s Talking Season. The Hot Stove League can refer to the winter months during which there are no baseball games and during which all that fans can do is talk. As I understand it, the term was used because, in earlier years, much of this was done while sitting by a hot wood or coal stove.    While the sports are different and the times of the year are different, there is at least one similarity between Talking Season and The Hot Stove League. Athletes are not using their talents to actually compete. They may be (and probably are) doing things that will help them when the season starts, but they are not actually fulfilling their missions as players.    I’m wondering if some of us who wear the name “Christian” see a reflection in the mirror of a person who acts as if he or she is in The Hot Stove League and/or that we are perpetually in Talking Season. I wonder if that person only “talks a good game,” but never finds time to actually serve the One whose name he or she wears.     As I look into my mirror and/or examine my heart, I need to remember that our Lord was very critical of some religious people (leaders in fact) who, according to Him … say and do not do. (Matt. 23:3, NKJV)    As I type the following words, I can assure you that I am in no way trying to be flippant with the language of the Bible as I use a verse that has the word “season” in it. I really hope that you will recognize that I am only trying to make a point when I remind all of us about Paul’s inspired instruction to a younger preacher. It seems to me that it would be good for all of us (not just preachers) to remember to……be ready in season and out of season… (2 Tim. 4:2, ESV)    As I look at that reflection in the mirror, I need to remember that there is no Talking Season or Hot Stove League for a true disciple of Jesus.

Jim Faughn serves as and elder for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY. Be sure to visit the following for more great articles: Faughn Family blog, A Legacy of Faith

The Lack of Evangelism

By Brian Mitchell
    “In so little time the harvest will be over and our reaping will be done, we reapers will stand before the Lord of the harvest and hope He says well done. How many times should I have strongly pleaded, how often did I fail to strictly warn; Oh had I only pled for Jesus, but now the grain has gone, too many lost ones never to be reborn.    Despite the heat, the toil and hardship, the broken hearts over those we cannot win; misunderstood because we are peculiar still no regrets save for our sins. A day of pleasure, a feast of friendship; a house, or car or some small fame; will all be trash when souls are brought to heaven there to face the slackers blame.    The harvest white, with reapers few is wasting and many souls will die and sadly never know; the love of Christ, the joy of forgiveness; oh let us weep, and love, and pray, and go. Today we reap, or miss our golden harvest; today is given us lost souls to win. Oh let us go to save some dear soul from dying, today let us go to bring some sinner in.”    The Apostle Peter exhorted the Lord’s followers to “Sanctify the Lord your God in your hearts, and always be willing to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” If we are honest, we will all have to admit that most individuals, and thus most congregations composed of those individuals are woefully lacking in the area of Personal Evangelism.    “It has been estimated that 95% of church members have never led someone to Christ.” “In places, the shortage of personal evangelism is so critical that it threatens the very existence of the local church.” Now don’t get me wrong! I am well aware that there are a number of good congregations that are actively involved in evangelistic efforts—one I heard about had baptized more than 50 people a year for more than a decade.    There are also other congregations where a handful of members are genuinely motivated and quite active in trying to reach the lost. While this in itself is good, the problem is it tends to make us think as congregations, that we are doing better than we are. There is an aura of excitement that is produced when some members of the church are actively involved in bringing souls to Christ. But this also makes it more difficult for us to admit our collective shortcomings.    The problem with the lack of evangelism is a specific problem in itself, but is also Satan’s greatest tool when it comes to hindering the effectiveness of the church. It is the one way our enemy is hurting us the most and our lack of evangelism is directly tied to every other problem we have discussed over the last 2 months. We often do not evangelize because we are too busy making and spending money, or we are too busy entertaining ourselves or filling our schedules with anything but personal work for the Lord.    So let each of us get personally involved with personal evangelism. God will not hold us accountable for those who do not obey, but He will hold us responsible if we never tell them.

-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.net

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A Just Balance

 

By Clifton Angel     In the midst of a painful grief that I cannot fathom, Job proclaimed to his accusing friends, "Let me be weighed in an even balance, that God may know mine integrity" (Job 31:6). Many of us have seen the balances, or scales, of old that were used in many areas of industry, medicine, and commerce. On one side of the scale is the product to be weighed or measured. On the other side of the scale are the proper standard weights to be placed. It was sometimes possible for dishonest merchants to produce or obtain weights which were actually less than their labeled amount. This would mean the customer would get much less product for his money, and the seller would have a dishonest profit.     The illustration of such a balance was often used in judging the character or heart of an individual. For example Solomon wrote, "A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight" (Proverbs 11:1). Furthermore, he wrote, "Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good" (Proverbs 20:23), and "A just weight and balance are the LORD’S: all the weights of the bag are his work" (Proverbs 16:11).     As I ponder the justice, righteousness, and holiness of God, I am reminded of my imperfection and past sins. I tremble at the thought of confidently saying the same words that Job said, "Let me be weighed in an even balance, that God may know mine integrity" (Job 31:6), because I know in a just balance, I will never measure up. But then, I am reminded of the precious blood of Jesus: the one thing that can take away my sins; the one thing that can make me whole again; the one thing that makes it possible for me to stand confidently in the "even balance" of God, that He may know my (Jesus') integrity.     Why would I not want to be in contact with that blood? Why would I not do whatever it takes to follow Him with all my heart and obey His every command (Matthew 16:24; Luke 9:23; Hebrews 5:9)? Are you in contact with Jesus' blood (Revelation 1:5; Acts 22:16; Romans 6:3–4;1 John 1:7–9)?

- David R. Ferguson preaches for the Mentor Church of Christ in Mentor, OH.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://mentorchurchofchrist.com/ or davidferguson61@yahoo.com

A Strong Faith

 By Dan C Bailey

    We read in Mark 9:14-32 about an incident in which the disciples were unable to cast out an evil or a "dumb and deaf spirit." A father had brought his son to be healed, but to no avail. When Jesus arrived at the scene the scribes were apparently questioning the disciples about their failure. Jesus stated, "... O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me" (Mark 9:19).

    They brought the son unto Jesus, and when Jesus saw him, "..., straightway the spirit tare him; and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming" (Mark 9:20). The father pleaded for compassion from the Lord, and Jesus answered him. "If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief" (Mark 9:23-24). Here was a man who wanted to believe and to some extent did believe, but his faith was weak and needed to be strengthened.

    Sometimes Christians are very much like this father. We believe in God. We believe in Christ and the Spirit of God. We believe that angels exist, and we believe in a heavenly world, but sometimes our faith seems to weaken. When this happens we need to do several things.

    We need to read and to study the Bible more often. God's word will produce a strong faith if we will let the word of Christ dwell in us richly. "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord' (Colossians 3:16).

    We need to pray more frequently and more fervently. "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much" (James 5:16). The child of God who prays often to the Father will have a much stronger faith than one who seldom bows the knee in prayer. "Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice" (Psalm 55:17). Every prayer should spring forth from a heart having faith in God and in His providence. "Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime" (Daniel 6:10). If we fail to pray, what does that say about our faith?

    A strong faith is the result of a determined effort to please God. Truly, without faith we can not please our heavenly Father. "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6).

    We need to purpose or determine in our hearts that we want to have a stronger faith in God. When our determinations  is coupled with frequent and fervent prayer, along with diligent Bible study, the inevitable result will be a stronger faith.

    But there is still another avenue for having a stronger faith in the Lord. We need to spend time with established faithful Christians who have endured the hardships of life. We can be strengthened in faith by their teaching and example. The success of others is an encouragement to our faith.

    Brethren let us seriously strive to have a stronger faith. The Devil is powerful and deceitful. He is seeking to devour us at all times. "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour" (I Peter 5:8). A strong faith can be our shield in the battle against Satan. "Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked" (Ephesians 6:16). A strong faith puts us on the winning side. "Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil" (Ephesians 6:11). If we have a strong faith we shall be victorious, but a weak faith is sure to fail.

-Dan C. Bailey serves as a minister with the State Street Church of Christ in Bristol, VA. He may be contacted through the congregation's website at https://www.thelordsway.com/statestreetchurchofchrist/framedindex.asp?Group=Homeag

What Does It Profit A Man?

 

By David R. Ferguson     I know of a man who as a child was stunned while he was watching a television show involving a man making a deal with the Devil. In this program, a down and out man traded his eternal soul for a million dollars. This man I know just couldn’t believe as a child that anyone would do such a thing willingly. The Devil Went Down to Georgia was a huge hit for the Charlie Daniels Band back in 1979, and it tells the tale of the Devil going down to Georgia to look for a soul to steal. He enters into an agreement with a boy named Johnny over which one of the two of them is the best fiddle player, and if Johnny wins, he gets to keep the golden fiddle the Devil plays. But if the Devil wins, he gets to keep his golden fiddle...AND Johnny’s soul. In the end, Johnny wins the contest, and he gets to keep his soul. He also gets to keep the shiny fiddle made of gold.     One of my favorite short stories I read as a youth was The Devil and Daniel Webster authored by Stephen Vincent Benét. This story, published in 1937, is a retelling of the tale of Faust, as was the TV show I watched as a child as well as The Devil Went Down to Georgia. According to German legend, Faust was a scholar who was highly successful, yet very dissatisfied with his life. His dissatisfaction put him on a pathway to the Devil whom he meets, and they entered into a pact whereby Faust exchanges his soul for unlimited knowledge and worldly pleasures.     Benet's version of the story centers on a New Hampshire farmer by the name of Jabez Stone who, plagued with unending bad luck, is approached by the Devil under the name of Mr. Scratch. Under the guise of Mr. Scratch, the Devil offers Jabez Stone seven years of prosperity in exchange for his soul. At the end of the seven-year agreement, Mr. Scratch returns to claim the soul of Jabez Stone. However, Jabez had secured the help of Daniel Webster, a fictional version of the famous lawyer and orator and early American statesman, who defended Jabez Stone in front of a judge and jury of the damned, and his case was won and Stone kept his soul.     All of these remind me of a passage of Scripture found in the Gospel of Mark. Jesus Christ asks in Mark 8:36-37, 36 “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? 37 For what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”     In these three examples, it was a million dollars, a golden fiddle, and good luck and prosperity. Since then, I have witnessed all kinds of people forfeiting their souls for a lot less, usually trying to achieve their fifteen minutes of fame. The basic principle of being a disciple of Jesus is that of self-denial, and forfeiting our Earthly, carnal pleasures of life. When we focus on Jesus and the eternal things He has to offer, it will help us forfeit anything that will keep us from enjoying those eternal blessings. May God bless you!

- David R. Ferguson preaches for the Mentor Church of Christ in Mentor, OH.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://mentorchurchofchrist.com/ or davidferguson61@yahoo.com

Lessons from the Tornado

 

By Bill Brandstatter
    Last weekend (May 2024) was a devastating one weather wise for our area. Several tornados were reported. One meteorologist indicated the National Weather Service had issued 97 tornado warnings recently. That number is significant; but there are some things that were seen from these tornados that should benefit us.    It is easier and quicker to destroy than to build up. It was obvious that a lot of destruction came in a short amount of time. The emphasis for many now will be to build after the debris is cleared. The Bible uses a variety of words to mean “build up.” Two of the most common are “edify” and “exhort.” Paul wrote that we should “edify one another.” (1 Th. 5:11) This applies in all areas of life. We should seek to edify our spouses and our children. We should constantly look at ways to build up each other, not tear down. In all things regarding buildings or life, it is easier to destroy rather than build; but we need to build each other up because eventually trouble will come.    A proper foundation is important. We have seen pictures on the news of foundations still intact, but the buildings are gone. The foundation will still stand long after the structure is blown away. When it comes to our spiritual lives, the foundation is also important. (1 Cor. 3:11) The church was built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets (Eph. 2:20). It will stand forever (Dan. 2:44).    Cooperation is a must with everyone working toward a common goal. People help others to be safe. Political differences have been set aside and cooperation is evident. Cooperation helps to sustain us in weakness. (Ex. 17:12) Cooperation helps to provide courage for a conflict. (1 Sam. 14:7) The Bible says “Two are better than one” (Eccl. 4:9).    Life should matter more to us than anything else. Even after homes were destroyed, what matters most to the people is the lives that were saved. One man in Arkansas saved around 50 people by hollering for everyone to take cover in a bathroom in a truck stop. Destruction was all around and the truck stop destroyed, but because of what he said people were saved. Life matters to all of us. Jesus came to improve our lives (John 10:10). To Him, life matters. He wept when Lazarus died (John 11:35). He came to save people from their sins (Mt. 21; Luke 19:10. He promised life beyond the grave to those who believe in Him (John 11:25, 26).    Prayer is important. There is a time and a place for prayer. Most people recognize this during an emergency. People were praying for others because they knew God is powerful. They acknowledged the power of God. In the midst of storms, God is still in control. When the disciples were in the boat with Jesus, a great storm arose and the waves beat on the boat and the boat was filling up with water. Jesus was sleeping in the stern of the boat. He arose and rebuked the wind and said, “Peace be still!” (Mark 4:35-39) Jesus didn’t stop the storm from coming; rather He showed His power during the storm. During our recent storm, God was where He has always been. He is in heaven willing and ready to help when needed. Luke records that men always ought to pray and not lose heart (Luke 18:1). Paul indicated we should pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17). Let us continue to pray and seek the help of God. He is a very present help in time of trouble (Psa. 46:1).    Let us thank God for all He does for us and realize we are just passing through this life. Life is short (James 4:14). God should be at the center or our lives (Prov. 3:5,6; Eccl. 12:13,14). Let us obey Him and live faithfully and we will receive a crown of life (Rev. 2:10).

- Bill Brandstatter preaches for the Marion Church of Christ in Marion, IL. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://marionchurchofchrist.com/