When Silence Isn't Golden

By Joe Slater     We spend the first year trying to get the baby to talk; then we spend the next seventeen years trying to get him to be quiet!     There is a time to be silent (Ecclesiastes 3:7). Even Jesus was silent when the occasion called for it (Matthew 26:63).     But silence isn’t always golden. Sometimes it’s counterproductive or downright sinful. When David had sinned, his guilt ate him alive as long as he kept it bottled up inside. “When I kept silent, my bones grew old through my groaning all the day long” (Psalm 32:3). Only when he confessed to God did he find pardon and relief.     When you have information that can help other people, remaining silent about it would be sinful! For example, when Syria besieged Jerusalem, a terrible famine resulted. The Lord caused the Syrians to flee, leaving behind abundant food. The four lepers who discovered it knew they must tell others. “This day is a day of good news, and we remain silent. If we want until morning light, some punishment will come upon us. Now therefore come, let us go and tell the king’s household” (2 Kings 7:9).     If remaining silent in that day of good news would have been sinful, how much more if Christians stay quiet about the gospel of Christ? Paul had suffered terrible abuse for evangelizing virtually everywhere he went. Still, he came to Corinth and led many to Christ. The Lord told him, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city” (Acts 18:9-10).     Speak to the Lord about your burden of sin! Speak to other people about the Gospel! Silence isn’t golden!

- 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

God's Benefit Package

By Joe Slater     While salary is obviously important, job hunters know that benefits can be equally or more important. Health insurance, paid vacation, retirement, sick days, and other considerations may tip the scale as to whether one accepts an employer’s offer.     Becoming a Christian isn’t a perfect parallel to being employed, so don’t make more of this illustration than you should. God doesn’t “owe” us anything for working for Him! Nevertheless, by His grace He provides valuable benefits to His willing servants. That was true even under the Law of Moses. David exclaimed, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits” (Psalm 103:2). Psalm 116:12 rhetorically asks, “What shall I render to the Lord for all His benefits toward me?”     Do we recognize and appreciate the benefits of being a Christian? Let’s start with the most obvious one: forgiveness of sins. God washed us completely clean in the blood of the Lamb. Our debt is paid in full!     That naturally results in eternal life. We have a new life in Christ now, and we know that when our physical life ends, we will continue to live with the Lord.     In the meanwhile, we enjoy the privilege of prayer. Through our mediator, Jesus Christ, we can approach the Father’s throne of grace boldly, knowing that He will hear and answer in whatever way is best according to His infinite wisdom and love.     These benefits are but the beginning of a virtually endless list of advantages Christians have. And remember, we earned none of them. Our loving Father provides them by His grace.     What other benefits can you list?

- 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

Come, Take, Learn

By Joe Slater
    Can you imagine how frustrated Jesus must have  felt when the very people who ought to have recognized and welcomed Him stubbornly refused? Nevertheless, He continued offering salvation to those humble enough to accept it.“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29).    This beautiful invitation has three imperatives. The first is “come.” While He was on earth in the flesh people could physically come to Him, but even then (as now) coming to Jesus required faith and obedience. Those who bore heavy burdens of sin and trials found rest in Him. That is still the case.    Then Jesus said, “Take.” Take My yoke upon you. A yoke is an instrument of service such as oxen would wear to pull a plow or cart. Yes, we must serve our Savior. But whereas an ox yoke might gall and chafe the animal’s neck or shoulder, Jesus’ yoke is “easy” (v. 30). Serving Him brings delight in contrast to the crushing misery of sin.    Finally, Jesus said, “Learn.” We cannot know how to serve Him and enjoy rest unless we learn from Him. We learn from what He taught as we read through the gospels. In the same way we learn from what He did as we observe His mercy, His obedience, His power, His faith, His suffering, His anger, His patience (and you can extend that list indefinitely).    Come. Take. Learn. Those three simple steps form a good summary of what discipleship involves. His invitation is for you. Will you accept it?

- 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

Truancy (Chronic Absenteeism)

By Joe Slater     You aren’t supposed to call it truancy anymore. It’s “chronic absenteeism.” Most schools don’t have truant officers anymore. Now they’re “Professional Student Advocates.” The new title supposedly helps parents to be less defensive when approached about their children’s non-attendance at classes. I feel better already!     I read that in Connecticut a student who misses 18 or more days out of 180 (ten percent or more) is considered chronically absent. Hmmm. What if we used that kind of standard for church attendance?     A typical year has 52 Sundays. How many of us miss fewer than five of them? I shouldn’t have to re-state the obvious, but to prevent any hurt feelings let me make it clear: this has nothing to do with absences due to health or other legitimate reasons.     Absence by choice has been problematic for as long as I can remember and has only grown worse post-pandemic. In far too many cases absenteeism far exceeds ten percent, and that’s if we count only the Sunday morning assembly. Add the Sunday evening service and Bible classes (as we should) and the picture is even more dismal.     “Professional student advocates” are focusing less on enforcement and more on determining why children are skipping school and then remedying the issues. I can only imagine the reasons they’re hearing: Johnny doesn’t like his teacher; Susie doesn’t enjoy Biology; the cafeteria doesn’t serve what my children like. Truth be told, they probably don’t understand the importance of education. Maybe their parents don’t either.     Why are some Christians chronically absent? I’ve heard a freight car load of excuses with abundant finger-pointing and blaming. But the bottom line remains the same: failure (or refusal) to see the importance of it. What about 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

Looking Like God

By Joe Slater     Do you look like God? Every human is made in His image, yet people’s physical appearance varies widely.     If we had lived while Jesus walked the earth, we could have pointed to Him and truly said, “There goes God!” Jesus Himself told Philip, “He who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). But the Bible says precious little of how He looked except that He was ordinary (Isaiah 53:2). Fast-forward pas the Renaissance painters who depict Him as an effeminate, stringy-haired, blue-eyed European!     Facial features, height, weight, and skin tone don’t make you look like God anyway! Such characteristics may indicate that you have your parents’ genes, and that may become more obvious as the years pass.     But the passing of those same years ought to make us, as God’s children, look more like Him. We are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). That transformation is what makes us a reflection of God in His glory (2 Corinthians 3:18).     Look at Jesus! I don’t mean His physical attributes; those aren’t the point. Look at His attitude; see His love; ponder His purpose; observe His selfless sacrifice. You ought to be notably more like Him than you were a year ago . . . five years ago . . . ten years ago.     Do you look like God?

- 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

All Things That Pertain To Life and Godliness

By Dale J. Babinsky
    Have you ever spent Christmas Eve feverishly trying to assemble that last gift? Perhaps you waited until the last moment thinking it wouldn’t be a big deal or difficult. It only required some assembly, after all. Then you notice that the instructions are not clearly written, and the diagrams are small and ambiguous as to which side of the frame the screws are supposed to be inserted. Don’t you wish that you had all that pertains to how to put this thing together?    God’s instructions for us are not like that. They are neither unclear, nor ambiguous. Peter tells us that God, through His magnificent ability and divine power, “has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue” (2 Peter 1:3 NKJV). He has given us all the things that we need in order to know how to live a godly life. He has left nothing to chance. He has given us no reason to wonder what it is that He wants. Through God’s written word, the Bible, mankind can have all the information and instruction necessary to live a life that pleases the Lord. We can read and understand what God wants us to know (Ephesians 3:3-5). We can understand the will of the Lord (Ephesians 5:17). We can have the knowledge of Him and His will so that, “you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:10).    Of course, many choose to ignore the instructions. Sometimes our pride gets in the way. I know how to put this thing together. Hours later, we begin to look for where we laid those instructions. When all else fails, consult the instructions. However, it would be better to start with the instructions so that we can arrive at the desired end. Our desired end ought to be heaven. Our desired end ought to be having a relationship with our Lord and Savior. We can say, “I don’t need the instructions, I know what I am doing,” but that path will not lead us to know God as He wants to be known. He has given us all things for living a godly life in His inspired words. Let us look to those basic instructions before leaving earth so that we will get to be where we want to go.

- Dale J. Babinsky preaches for the Great Smoky Mountains Church of Christ in Pigeon Forge, TN. He may be contacted through the congregation's website - https://gsmchurchofchrist.com/

A Thoughtful Gift

By David A. Sargent     Brenna Martin graduated from high school in 2012.  One of the things that she will remember most is the graduation gift that she received from her parents.  She posted her thoughts about her gift not long after she received it.  Here are her words: “I graduated High School this week.  When my Dad said he had a present for me, I thought I was getting some cheesy graduation card.  But what I received was something truly priceless....  Following the ceremony he handed me a bag with a copy of ‘Oh, The Places You'll Go!’ by Dr. Seuss inside.  At first I just smiled and said that it meant a lot and that I loved that book.  But then he told me, ‘No, open it up.’  On the first page I see a short paragraph written by none other than my kindergarten teacher.  I started tearing up but I’m still confused.  He tells me, ‘Every year, for the past 13 years, since the day you started kindergarten, I’ve gotten every teacher, coach, and principal to write a little something about you in this book.’  He managed to keep this book a secret for 13 years, and apparently everyone else in my life knew about it!  Yes the intended effect occurred… I burst out into tears.      Sitting there reading through this book there are encouraging and sweet words from every teacher I love and remember through my years in this small town.  My early teachers mention my ‘pigtails and giggles,’ while my high school teachers mention my ‘wit and sharp thinking.’  But they all mention my humor and love for life.  It is astounding to receive something this moving, touching, nostalgic, and thoughtful.  I can’t express how much I love my Dad for this labor of love.”     The book "Oh, The Places You'll Go!" has a cash value of less than $20, but to Brenna, it is "truly priceless."  She will cherish the comments from her teachers and coaches, but what makes the book so valuable to her is that her Dad worked on “this labor of love” for 13 years.     If the value of a gift can be determined by the time and thoughtfulness behind it, consider the worth of God’s greatest Gift for you and me…     The Apostle Peter wrote to Christians regarding the price that was paid for their redemption: “18 For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. 20 He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake.” – 1 Peter 1:18-19 Our sins condemn us (Romans 3:23; 6:23), but God loves us so much that He provided a Gift – His Son Jesus – to pay the price for our redemption (Ephesians 1:7).  That Gift, which provides salvation and eternal life to those who accept it, is precious – not only because it is the precious blood of the Son of God who died for us, but also because of how long ago God determined to provide the Gift.  “He was chosen before the creation of the world.”      In order to accept God’s offer of salvation and life through His Son, one must place his faith and trust in Jesus (Acts 16:30-31), turn from sin in repentance (Acts 17:30-31), confess Jesus before men (Romans 10:9-10), and be baptized (immersed) into Christ for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38), and follow Him faithfully (Revelation 2:10).     God planned to save us through the blood of Jesus His Son before He even created us!  That Gift is “truly priceless.”      “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” – 2 Corinthians 9:15     Won’t YOU accept the GIFT on His terms?

- 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 * Information gleaned from the Huffington Post -- http://www.huffingtonpost.com

Blessed Assurance (Part 1)

By Clifton Angel     Hearing produces faith (Romans 10:17). Without faith, it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Repentance, a decision made within the mind to change the direction of your life, is required for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38). Confessing with the mouth leads to salvation (Romans 10:10). And the culmination of all these actions occurs when one is baptized into Christ (Rom. 6:3, 4). It is at this point that a person puts on Christ (Galatians 3:27). It is at this point that a person’s sins are washed away (Acts 22:16). It is at this point that a person is saved (Mark 16:16). It is at this point that a person has access to all spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3).     Yet, after this point, it is still possible for a person to sin: “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8). Even so, it is possible for a person to so sin as to be lost eternally: For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire (2 Peter 2:20-22).     With this fact in mind, it is often the case that Christians find themselves “walking on eggshells” in fear of so sinning. Furthermore, they will sin, and then become discouraged, begin to doubt their salvation, forgetting the power of the blood of Christ, and live in misery, wondering why such misery can be found in those that are to be most happy of all. Dear friends and brethren, such doubt should not be found in a Christian, for we have blessed assurance! Paul wrote the church in Rome, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1a). From this terse and powerful passage, we will consider three primary thoughts that should dwell in the mind of every true follower of Christ.     If you are reading this and have left the faith, come back to this blessed assurance! If you are reading this and have never had this blessed assurance, let us study God’s Word together so that you might obtain it. “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1a).

- 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/

Blessed Assurance (Part 2)

By Clifton Angel “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus” (Rom 8:1a).     Now. In order to appreciate the word “now” in this passage, we must first consider the word “therefore”. Paul is concluding something. He has just been explaining the discouragement, heartache, and struggle that came with living under the old law (cf. Rom 7:5-25). Paul begins such a discussion with the phrase, “for when we were in the flesh” (Rom 7:5). “Flesh” was a symbolic term that Paul sometimes used to refer to the temporary old law (cf. Gal 3:1-3). What was wrong with the old law, Paul? Nothing! “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good” (Rom 7:12). It served the purpose God intended (cf. Gal 3:19-27). Then, what is the problem? With a paraphrase of Romans 7 and evident events in Paul’s life, consider what he might say: “Me! I’m the problem; I have sinned! Let me explain. It’s the yearly Passover Feast. I have my beautiful young lamb. Many friends and family will be there. I take my lamb to the priest. I smell the burning flesh. I see blood all over the place. I tell him my sin, and just for a moment I hoped...I thought that maybe...but he said, “Remember, you’re still a sinner.” “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” (Rom 7:24). But now. “There is therefore now.” Can you try to picture Paul’s face as this was being written? I wonder if his eyes lit up with joy? Perhaps a smile came across his face and tears began to roll down his cheeks? Now. Paul was a man that knew what it is like to live under the old law and under the new law: the Gospel! Do we ever stop and thank God that we live now?     No Condemnation. The original word translated “condemnation” literally means “down judgment.” When we think of heaven, we think “up.” When we think of hell, we think “down.” To be condemned would mean that at the judgment, one would be going “down” to hell. However, we are talking about “no condemnation.” When a house is condemned, it is declared “unfit for use.” There is no life in it. Likewise, there is no life in a condemned person. But in Christ, there is no condemnation, and His life is in you (cf. Rom 6:3–4; Gal 2:20). Read Romans 8:35-39.     O, the blessed assurance of no condemnation! Who can separate me from the love of Christ? Only I can separate myself from the love of Christ. The Apostle Paul knew this, for he said, “I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway” (1 Cor 9:27). Are you partaker in this blessed assurance?

- 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/

 

Blessed Assurance (Part 3)

By Clifton Angel “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus” (Rom 8:1a).     In Christ. The phrase in Christ occurs some 77 times in the New Testament. In the Lord can be found some 111 times throughout the Bible. The Bible gives definite importance to one being in Christ. What is so great about one being in Christ?     It is in Christ that the fulfillment of prophecies and eternal plans are found (Eph 1:10). It was in Christ that God’s eternal purpose was accomplished (Eph 3:11). It is in Christ that all spiritual blessings are found (Eph 1:3). Think about the blessing of approaching our Father in prayer (Luke 11:1–4; 1 Pet 3:12). Think about the blessing of forgiveness of sins. Think about the blessing of offering up spiritual sacrifices in spirit and truth on the first day of the week (John 4:23–24; 1 Pet 2:5; Acts 2:42). Think about the blessing of walking in the light (1 John 1:7–9). Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12). If we are walking in the Light, it is the same as saying we are walking in Christ! Sometimes we do not realize how saved we are! God is not like human beings in that He is not watching our every move with intentions of catching us in a fault. He does not want to condemn us! He wants to save us (1 Tim 2:4)!     Read Philippians 4:4-8.      These words are from a man that was in prison when he wrote them. They are from a man that received 195 stripes from the Jews (but only 39 stripes per instance, so that they satisfied their self-righteous view of the law), had been stoned and left for dead, was beaten with rods on three occasions, was shipwrecked on three different occasions. No one could stop a man like Paul because he had blessed assurance. It has been said: “If you set Paul free, he would convert the world. If you put him in prison, he would write the Bible. And if you kill him, you will put him right where he wants to be: with Christ.” Paul said, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Gal 2:20).     “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O what a foretaste of glory divine! Heir of salvation, purchase of God, Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood. This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long; This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long” (Fanny Crosby, Hymn: “Blessed Assurance”). “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus” (Rom 8:1a). Are you “in Christ” (Rom 6:3–4; Gal 3:27)?

- 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/

Making Room For The King

By Jeff Arnette     As Christmas approaches, we often hear the familiar story of the birth of Jesus. We hear of Mary and Joseph traveling to Bethlehem, only to find no room in the inn (Luke 2:1-7). But what does this story mean for us today?     In a world filled with noise, distractions, and endless demands, it’s easy to find ourselves in a similar situation. Our hearts, like the manger, can become cluttered with anxieties, worries, and worldly pursuits. Just as Mary and Joseph found themselves forced to seek alternative shelter, we too can find ourselves pushing Jesus out of our lives, leaving him to find a place in the margins.     However, the Bible reminds us that Jesus desires a place in our hearts, not just during special occasions but every day. He says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.” (Revelation 3:20) He doesn’t force his way in, but waits patiently for us to invite him into the manger of our lives.     But how do we make room for him in the midst of our busy schedules and overwhelming to-do lists? Here are a few ways, inspired by the wisdom of the Bible: 1. Seek him first. Jesus reminds us, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33). When we prioritize our relationship with him, everything else falls into place. We find the strength to face challenges, the wisdom to make decisions, and the peace that transcends understanding. 2. Nourish your spirit. Just as we need food for our physical bodies, we need spiritual nourishment to grow our relationship with Jesus. Immerse yourself in the Bible, read devotional readings, and allow his words to wash over you like a soothing balm. As the Psalmist writes, “Your words are sweeter than honey to my mouth, and my portion forever.” (Psalm 119:103) 3. Connect with your church. Reconnect with your church family where you can worship together, share your faith, and support one another on your spiritual journeys. As the book of Hebrews encourages, “Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking the gathering of ourselves together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) 4. Shine his light. Don’t keep Jesus locked away in your heart. Let his love and compassion overflow into your interactions with others. Serve those in need, offer words of encouragement, and be a living testament to his grace. As Jesus himself said, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14)     Making room for Jesus is a continuous journey, not a destination. It requires constant effort, but the rewards are immeasurable. When we choose him above all else, we discover a peace that surpasses all understanding, a joy that fills our hearts with every sunrise, and a love that guides us through every storm.     We need to clear the “manger of our hearts” and invite the King to reign supreme. As we do, we transform the world around us, one act of love and kindness at a time.

- Jeff Arnette preaches for the Central Haywood church of Christ, Clyde, NC.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: https://centralhaywoodcoc.com/

Making An Investment in People

By Brian Mitchell     There is a dire need for Evangelism in the Lord’s church today. It is OUR JOB to reach out to the lost. If we don’t do it, who will? If we won’t do it, it won’t get done. If it doesn’t get done, a lot of souls will be unnecessarily lost—including ours if we never ever tried to reach out.     As I have said before—there is NO SUCH THING as an UNDERCOVER CHRISTIAN. If we belong to the Lord, are a part of the body of Christ, then we have the obligation to sow the seed of the kingdom. We are in the People Business and in the end, there is no better place to make an investment than in people. Do you remember Jesus’ last words?     Jesus said this to his disciples in Acts 1:8, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” And the next verse reads, “After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.” (Acts 1:9). So, these were Jesus’ last words to His disciples, but let’s travel back in time to an earlier encounter with Jesus.     This episode is recorded in Matthew 4:18 and following. It was here that Jesus was walking one day beside the Sea of Galilee, and he saw two brothers, Peter and Andrew. Peter and Andrew were common fishermen. They were working hard that day, casting their nets into the lake and pulling in their catch. That’s when Jesus came up to them and said, “Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Verse 20 says, “At once they left their nets and followed him.”     In essence, what Jesus said to the two of them that day was: “I understand your preoccupation with catching fish. But if you will trust me and follow me, if you will try to understand who I am and what I am up to in this world, then I will make you fishers of men. And believe me, this is an infinitely more significant endeavor than merely catching fish!”     Now, it’s important to understand that Jesus was not knocking the fishing business, any more than He would have knocked the carpentry business in which both He and his father participated. There’s nothing wrong with those occupations, nor the food business, the travel business, the insurance business, or any other wholesome business. They are all fine. But no earthly enterprise is as important as the business of bringing lost people to the cross of Christ. This soul saving enterprise should be central to the lives of all Jesus’ followers, regardless of what they do for a living.      This is Who We Are!!! Those of us who choose to follow Jesus must eventually come to the realization that there’s nothing more important than reaching people. When we do, our values will change—our focus will change—our pursuits will change. We will be seized by the realization that every other earthly activity pales in comparison with helping an individual enter into a saving relationship with the God of the universe.     When we finally come to that understanding, then we will: Live differently, Pray differently, Love differently, Work differently, Serve differently and Give differently. We will become preoccupied with people and their spiritual needs and in doing what we can to help them meet those needs. So, let me ask you a personal question: Has this kind of thing happened to you yet? Have you come to that conclusion yet?

- 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

What Is Religious Prejudice

By Bob Prichard     Prejudice is one of the great problems of mankind. War in Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Israel and Gaza, and many other places is primarily over religious prejudice. The root idea of prejudice is to “pre-judge” someone or something, without considering all the evidence. Prejudice results when someone decides “all” are “like this” because a “few” are. Prejudice comes because someone has the attitude, “my mind is made up, don’t confuse me with the facts.” Race, gender, size, religion, or just about any other distinguishing characteristic may be the basis for prejudice. The basic idea is that “we” are better, and “they” are not as good.     The Jews of Christ’s time had an attitude of racial and religious prejudice toward the Samaritans. It was almost beyond the belief of Christ’s Jewish listeners that there could possibly be a “good Samaritan.” The Samaritan woman at the well acknowledged the division, “for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans” (John 4:9). Jesus offered her “living water” that would bring unity to the Jew, the Samaritan, and the Gentile as well. “The hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him” (John 4:23).       Jesus came to unite all “true worshippers” who would “worship the Father in spirit and in truth.” By seeking true worshippers, He frequently challenged the religious authorities. “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation” (Matthew 23:13-14). He called the Pharisees “hypocrites” so often that “Pharisee” and “hypocrite” are almost synonymous to us. The Pharisees were the most religious of all the sects of the Jews, but they had lost sight of God’s will. Was Jesus “prejudiced” against the Pharisees because he criticized them? No! He had not “pre-judged” them, but He knew what they were teaching and doing, so he condemned them.     In our religious world, some think that any criticism of what any religious group teaches or practices is “religious prejudice.” It seems that we have reached the point that people can do anything in the name of religion, and because of cries of “religious prejudice,” we should never compare their religious practices to what the Bible says. Criticism that is “pre-judged,” not based on a right consideration of all the evidence is wrong, but too often the “standard” is what men like or dislike, rather than what God has said through His written Word. Jesus said, “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day” (John 12:48). To say, “this religious group teaches or practices such and such a doctrine, but the Bible says this,” is not religious prejudice. We must be sure that our facts are right, and that we do not misapply or mishandle the Word, but we also must make sure that we abide by what it teaches. We risk our souls if we disregard God’s will.

- 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.

Unchanging Truth

By Glen Elliott     “People cannot change truth, but truth can change people.” Truth has always been one of life’s most precious commodities. Solomon, the wise king of Israel, advised his son to buy the truth and not sell it (Proverbs 23:23). What is so special about truth? It doesn’t change. It abides forever. It can be relied upon.     In this world, deception is the order of the day. We are well advised to examine everything carefully. The misrepresentation and distortion of truth leads to tragedy. We hear of some losing their life’s savings because they believed a lie. Truth is precious because people can be deceived.     In the spiritual realm, dependence on truth carries eternal significance. The word of God is our only reliable guide to heaven. The psalmist says, “The sum of Your word is truth and every one of Your righteous ordinances is everlasting” (Psalm 119:160). Sadly, there are many who misrepresent the truth. For this reason, we must test all that we hear by comparing it to the word of God (Acts 17:11). We cannot risk our eternal well-being by blindly accepting the words of men. Instead, our faith must rest on the teaching of our Lord.     Jesus said, “everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin” (John 8:34). The question of slavery had been introduced earlier, when Jesus said: “If you abide in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (vv. 31-32). Insisting on the truth and adhering to it is essential because only the truth sets us free from the bondage of sin.     We cannot change the truth. We can exchange it for a lie; but that lie will not set our souls free from sin. We cannot change the truth, but we can let the truth change us as we earnestly seek its teachings and follow its precepts.

- Glen Elliott preaches for the Greenbrier church of Christ in Greenbrier, AR. He may be contacted through the congregation's website - https://www.gbcofc.com/

The Great and Terrible Day

By David R. Ferguson     There’s a great and terrible day coming. It will be great for those of us in Christ, but a terrible day for the multitudes who have chosen to reject the Lord and the salvation that only He can offer. Because salvation is available only through Jesus Christ (John 14:6; Acts 4:12), then it’s paramount that we prepare ourselves to be clothed in His holy garments when He returns.     This great and terrible day will occur when Jesus returns to gather His saints to take them home to be with Him forever and the last enemy, Death, is destroyed forever, cast into the Lake of Fire: 16. For the Lord Himself will descend from Heaven with a cry of command, with the Archangel's call, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first; 17. then we who are alive, who are left, shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air; and so we shall always be with the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 [RSV])     A glorious reunion with the living awaits those who have already passed away to be with their Lord: 22. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. 23. But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, then at His coming those who belong to Christ. 24. Then comes the end, when He delivers the Kingdom to God the Father after destroying every rule and every authority and power. 25. For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. 26. The last enemy to be destroyed is Death. (1 Corinthians 15:22-25 [RSV])     No one will be beyond the Lord’s reach: 13. And the sea gave up the dead in it, Death and Hades gave up the dead in them, and all were judged by what they had done. 14. Then Death and Hades were thrown into the Lake of Fire. This is the second death, the Lake of Fire; 15. and if anyone's name was not found written in the Book of Life, he was thrown into the Lake of Fire. (Revelation 20:13-15 [RSV])     When this great day happens, we shall be resurrected into a new body like our Lord’s: “Beloved, we are God's children now; it does not yet appear what we shall be, but we know that when He appears we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2 [RSV]). Yes, this a very frightening proposition to those who in their rebellion remain separated from their Creator, but not to those of us who are a part of His body: “Therefore comfort one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:18 [RSV]).     It's my hope and prayer that if you have not made the decision to make the Lord your own you will do so today!

- 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

Peacemakers (Part 1)

By Clifton Angel

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). It is certain that Christians are to keep the principles Paul wrote, “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men” (Romans 12:18), and while this principle may be included in Jesus’ words, it is not all that Jesus intended.     Many portray the peacemaker as one who seeks physical peace at all costs. If someone is doing wrong, just ignore it, and “keep the peace.” Confrontation is unacceptable because we must “keep the peace.” “Lets just agree to disagree.” “You do you, and I’ll do me.” While there may be scenarios where such conclusions may be necessary, such philosophies cannot wholly describe disciples of Jesus.     Christians are called to tell the good news of Jesus (cf. Matthew 28:18–20; Romans 10:13–17), and spreading the gospel requires confronting sinful ideologies with truth (Romans 6:23), leading those in need to godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10), and exhorting individuals to change for the better (Acts 2:38; Acts 17:30). These are necessary because true peace—the greatest peace—is spiritual. It is peace and unity with God. Such peace is far greater than any physical peace we may enjoy with mankind. James wrote, “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God” (James 4:4).     To the church at Ephesus, Paul penned these words: “For he [Jesus, CA] is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father” (Eph 2:14–18).     Jesus has made it possible for us to be reunited with God, and thereby, we are united with all of God’s faithful. That is true peace. Therefore, the faithful follower of Jesus is blessed in seeking to bring others to peace with God, which is impossible with the gospel, faith, repentance, confession, baptism, and faithfulness thereafter.     Are you at peace with God? Are you seeking to lead others to be at peace with God? “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.”   - 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/

Peacemakers (Part 2)

By Clifton Angel     “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). We last considered that God’s peacemakers are at peace with Him and seeking to bring others to be at peace with him (spiritually cleansed from sin). Also, let us consider the need for Christians to be peacemakers among citizens of the spiritual kingdom, the church.     Far too often, the church has been disturbed by troublemakers from within. Yes, even those who wear the name “Christian” have caused problems instead of recognizing the responsibility of being a peacemaker. Troubles arise in the church because of pride (1 Timothy 3:6), preeminence (3 John 9), impenitence (1 Corinthians 5–6; 2 Corinthians 7:10), and opinions (James 1:19). May we never be guilty of causing trouble in the Lord’s church.     In such situations, our responses to troublemakers are vital. Proper responses will quickly quell the quarrels. However, some will agitate by adding to the trouble or siding with the troublemakers. One of the greatest hindrances to peacemaking in the church is gossip (Proverbs 26:20–21). Some will accept the troublemaker as if he has done no wrong (see 1 Corinthians 5:2–6). Some will avoid the trouble because of cowardice or apathy. These are all improper responses to troublemakers in the church.     The proper response to a troublemaker is to properly address the issue (cf. 1 Corinthians 5:6–13; 2 Corinthians 2:1–9; Matthew 5:21–26; Matthew 18:15–35). Many passages could be considered to encourage us to be peacemakers within the church. Because of space constraints, we will only consider Romans 12:9–21. “Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. In love of the brethren be tenderly affectioned one to another; in honor preferring one another; in diligence not slothful; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing steadfastly in prayer; communicating to the necessities of the saints; given to hospitality. Bless them that persecute you; bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that rejoice; weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Set not your mind on high things, but condescend to things that are lowly. Be not wise in your own conceits. Render to no man evil for evil. Take thought for things honorable in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as in you lieth, be at peace with all men. Avenge not yourselves, beloved, but give place unto the wrath of God: for it is written, Vengeance belongeth unto me; I will recompense, saith the Lord. But if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him to drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.”

- 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/

Persecuted (Part 1)

By Clifton Angel     There is one beatitude left for us to consider. “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and speak all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad; for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you” (Matthew 5:10-12). Let us consider this in three parts: (1) the reason; (2) the record; (3) the reward.     Jesus highlights three manners we may be persecuted. First, “men shall revile you.” Thayer’s Lexicon defines “revile” as “unjust reproach,...upbraid, cast...in one’s teeth.” In other words, hatred, insults, harsh criticisms, or condemnations which feel like a punch in the mouth. Second, “men shall...persecute you.” Thayer says, “in any way whatever to harass, trouble, molest.” This includes physical violence to the point of our assailants continuously seeking to harm us. Third, Jesus says, “men shall...speak all manner of evil against you falsely.” Lies, slander, gossip, and other undermining tactics to attempt to silence faithful Christians (e.g., how often are Christians portrayed as “hate mongers,” “homophobic,” “xenophobic,” et al., for lovingly speaking where the Bible speaks?).     No one, in their right mind, desires to be persecuted. Yet, some will pretend to be persecuted for the sake of attention, sympathy, or compensation. Furthermore, many pretend to be persecuted, when in reality, they are suffering the consequences of their own wrongdoing. There are cases when we all suffer from the consequences of the unintentional actions of others and because we live in a world of death and decay. However, none of these fit the reasons Jesus gives for an oppressed person to be considered blessed. Remember, “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake...and...for my [Jesus’] sake” (Matthew 5:10–11). This means we are persecuted for doing what is right according to God, and for the cause of Christ. This is not merely what I “think” is right, or what I feel is right, or what I’m passionate about. If we are criticized, injured, insulted, or slandered while doing what Jesus says is right, then we are blessed.     Peter wrote: “Who is he that will harm you, if ye be zealous of that which is good? But even if ye should suffer for righteousness’ sake, blessed are ye: and fear not their fear, neither be troubled; but sanctify in your hearts Christ as Lord: being ready always to give answer to every man that asketh you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, yet with meekness and fear: having a good conscience; that, wherein ye are spoken against, they may be put to shame who revile your good manner of life in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God should so will, that ye suffer for welldoing than for evil-doing” (1 Pet 3:13–17).

- 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/

Persecuted (Part 2)

By Clifton Angel

    “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10). We have consider the reasons. Let us now consider the record: “...for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you” (Matthew 5:12). Space will not allow for us to consider every record of every prophet that was persecuted for teaching and doing what is right, but let us consider a few examples.

    Elijah. By God’s power, He witnessed and performed tremendous miracles. He had seen many of his cohorts slain by “Queen” Jezebel (wife and manipulator of Ahab). By Elijah, God displayed His power over Jezebel’s false gods and prophets (cf. 1 Kings 18). With hundreds of her false prophets slain, “Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time” (1 Kings 19:2). Elijah’s reaction defies initial logic: “And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life” (1 Kings 19:3). It can be confusing that Elijah would flee when Jehovah was on his side. Study and experience points to Elijah experiencing one or all of these three: “burnout,” anxiety, depression. He is a tremendous example to the faithful who experience the same, despite the victories they’ve witnessed.

    Daniel. Think about the temptations he had. This was a man taken into Babylonian slavery at a young age and made to work close by a man of great power — Nebuchadnezzar. Daniel’s patriotism for his country was humiliated. He was made to serve one that did not serve the God of heaven. Eventually, he was promoted to the highest in royal order, besides the king, in the greatest nation on earth at the time. Daniel had access to earthly power, prestige, prosperity, but his first priority was to serve God. Because of that, he suffered. Daniel’s life is an amazing example of faith in God. When told to eat the king’s food, he resisted (Daniel 1). When offered the glory for his interpretations, he gave it to God. When commanded by God to prophesy against the king, he did it (Daniel 2). When men tricked Darius into signing a decree against Daniel’s prayer routine, he did not skip a prayer to avoid the lion’s den (Daniel 6).

    Jeremiah. He was rejected by his own family, thrown into a dark cistern full of mud, witnessed the death of many after knowingly warning them, taken into captivity, threatened, and the list could continue (Jeremiah 26:8; 32:2; 38:6; Lamentations; et al.).

“Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and speak all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake ... for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you” (Matthew 5:11–12).

- 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/

Persecuted (Part 3)

By Clifton Angel

“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10). We have considered the reasons and the records. Let us now consider the rewards.     Blessed. This is the focus of this series of studies. When the majority of the world—even those who think themselves religious—refers to being blessed, they hardly mean they are suffering persecution for doing what is right in the eyes of God. Rather, they often are thinking about material wealth, family status, or physical wellness. While God deserves the glory for every good and perfect gift (cf. James 1:17), these common references are not the height of blessedness. Jesus has shown us that the height of blessedness is found in poverty of spirit, mourning of sin, meekness, righteousness, mercy, purity, spiritual peace, and persecution for the cause of Christ.     The kingdom of Heaven. On the surface, our minds immediately think of the place called Heaven. Further investigation reveals this kingdom to be Jesus’ church (Matthew 16:16–19; Mark 9:1; Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8; 2:1ff; cf. Isaiah 2:2–3; Colossians 1:13). Jesus’ church is the product of Heaven and its final destination is in Heaven (John 14:1–3; 1 Corinthians 15:24; Revelation 21). Since the establishment of the new covenant, the sinner’s only opportunity to enter into Heaven is to first be in Jesus’ church (cf. Acts 2:38, 47; Galatians 3:27; Romans 6:3–4; Ephesians 5:23).      Heaven. The word has become synonymous for supreme bliss; for, that is the image that is painted for us in the Scriptures. Among the most beautiful and comforting passages of Scripture is Revelation 21:4, “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” However, as we grow in our relationship with God and our exhibition of characteristics which make for supreme blessedness, Revelation 21:3 may become the most beautiful and comforting: “And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God him-self shall be with them, and be their God.”     “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” (Matt 5:10–12)    - 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/

What Is "The Lord's Day"

By Bob Prichard

    David reminds us that “the earth is the LORD’S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein” (Psalm 24:1). All that we have belongs to the Lord, including the days of the week. But in Revelation 1:10, John speaks of a special day he calls the Lord’s Day. “I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet.” Being “in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day” allowed John to receive the Revelation from the Lord of those “things which must shortly come to pass” (Revelation 1:1).

    The world of the early church was one in which many had to make a conscious and often life-threatening decision. Would they say, “Caesar is Lord,” or “Christ is Lord”? Recognizing that there is “one Lord” (Ephesians 4:5), they knew that there was only one choice: to follow Christ and to do all in His name. “Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him” (Colossians 3:17). Thus, Christians partake of the Lord’s supper (1 Corinthians 11:20) in the name of the Lord on the Lord’s Day.

    While the designation, “the Lord’s Day” is found only in Revelation 1:10, the concept of a day set aside for Christian worship is found from the very beginning of the church, as the early disciples met on the first day of the week. Jesus lived and died under the Old Covenant, and kept and obeyed the laws of the Sabbath, or seventh day of the week. Paul and other disciples went into the Jewish synagogues on the Sabbath day to reason with the Jews about the Christ (Acts 13; 17), but the church did not worship on the Sabbath day. Paul was usually expelled from the synagogues as opposition to his teachings grew, so we know that those Sabbath gatherings of Jews (and some Gentiles) were not meetings of the church.

    The pattern of first day worship was established with the resurrection of Christ from the dead on the first day of the week (Luke 24:1). Most, if not all of the post-resurrection appearances of Christ were on the first day of the week. Christ appeared in the midst of the disciples on the first day of the week, the resurrection day (John 20:19), and then again “after eight days” (John 20:26), meaning the next first day of the week, when the previously absent Thomas became a believer in the resurrection. Even as Paul hurried to be in Jerusalem by the day of Pentecost (Acts 20:16), he stopped in Troas to meet with the Christians there, “where we abode seven days” (Acts 20:6). Even though a Sabbath day must have passed during those seven days, the next verse says, “And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight” (Acts 20:7). That gathering on the first day of the week was a gathering on the Lord’s Day by the Christians of Troas and Paul and the other traveling Christians. The scriptures also speak many times of “the day of the Lord” referring to a day of judgment by the Lord, but this is an entirely different word than “the Lord’s day.”

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.

Is Bible Study Important

By Dan C. Bailey

There are about seven billion souls in the world today. Most do not read the Bible, study the Bible, or obey the Bible. The Book is of little or of no significance to them. However, the Christian loves the Bible, believes that the Bible is the revelation of God's Word, and believes that the Bible is true. Since the Christian believes that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, the Christian is interested in understanding the Bible. How could one be a Christian and not love the Word of God? How could one be a Christian, and not have a great desire to understand the only inspired Book that we have from our heavenly Father? No doubt, there are those who become children of God and who for a while live as Christians live, and then they abandon God and His Word for the world.     We read in II Timothy 4:10, "For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia." We read about others who did the same thing, that is, they forsook God and the Christian life. "For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, and have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame" (Hebrews 6:4-6).     However, the true Christian who lives like Christ wants him to live, is interested in understanding the Bible. Our classes on Sunday, or the first day of the week, are designed to instruct us, exhort us, warn us, correct us, and edify us in the Word of the living God. Why wouldn't a Christian be interested in attending the Bible studies on Sunday morning and Wednesday evening, as well as our worship on Sunday evening? Do we study the Bible so much during the week that it is not profitable to engage in it at these times?     The truth is, we all need to study the Word of God more carefully. The sermons and the classes help us to walk by faith, please God, and thereby live the Christian life. If you are able to attend our Bible studies, why not come and grow spiritually. We are commanded, "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen" (II Peter 3:18). How can we grow   - 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

The Thing About The King

By Edd Sterchi

Zechariah’s prophecy of Jesus in chapter 9 and verse 9 is most interesting: “Rejoice greatly...behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey...” (ESV)     First, we must note from this that Jesus is king! He is above all else. He took part in the creation of everything. He is not only a king, He is THE king. He is all powerful. And He can become our personal king.     Next, we must notice that Jesus is humble and righteous! While upon the earth, He never sinned and was always going about serving others. He was concerned about all people and always put them above Himself. Also, He obeyed the Father’s will perfectly.     Finally, we must see that Jesus brings salvation! It could come no other way. He had to be sacrificed for us to have the opportunity of redemption.     If I was to glean one main thing from this passage, it would be this: The thing about King Jesus is that He is perfect and He can make us perfectly fit for 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/

The Need for Compassion

By Brian Mitchell

Let’s talk about the Case for Compassion. In doing so, I want us to consider an important question. In what ways have you, individually, or have we, collectively, shown compassion recently? Our first response would probably be – What do you mean by compassion? What is Compassion?     The Random House Unabridged Dictionary defines compassion as “a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering.” Compassion rises above how we feel about the situation of another, to what we do about their situation. In this sense it is much like love which entails doing whatever is in the best interest of the one to whom our love is shown.     How much sympathy or sorrow do we really feel for the misfortune of others? And a more important question–Do we really have a strong desire to alleviate their suffering? If you are anything like me, you will probably have to admit that your compassion level isn’t always what it needs to be. In fact, if I’m not careful, then my first response to the needs of others can often be rather cold – “Well, they did it to themselves.” Or, “It’s not my problem.” “They should have been more careful or responsible.”     Again, if you notice the definition, it doesn’t say anything about “the strong desire to alleviate the suffering of another” so long as they deserve it. Compassion is to be shown to all, regardless of whether they show any to us. Because Our God is a God of Compassion and He desires that we be as well. The Bible presents us with the picture of a God who is full of compassion and thus over and over calls upon us to be people of compassion—Ex.34:6, Deut.15:11.     So, wouldn’t you agree that caring for the tangible needs of human beings is part-and-parcel of genuine Christianity? When action-oriented compassion is absent, then it’s a tell-tale sign that something is spiritually amiss. Uncaring and uncompassionate Christianity does not attract seekers into its fold. But a clear and consistent demonstration of Christ-like love is a powerful magnet that pulls people toward God. ACT Program—Partners for Africa.     Jesus illustrated the importance of compassion in one of His most famous stories–The Parable of the Good Samaritan. The story is found in Luke 10 and is so familiar to many of us. It’s a story about a Jewish man who was walking from Jerusalem toward the city of Jericho. As he traveled along, some hoodlums and thugs robbed him and beat him up, leaving him half-dead in a ditch on the side of the road.     A short time later a Jewish priest came walking along, but when he saw the man, he moved to the other side of the road and passed by without slowing down. A little while later, another religious man, a Levite, came along. He too quickly passed by on the other side. Finally, along came a man from Samaria, and even though there was a lot of ethnic strife between the Samaritans and the Jews, this Samaritan felt compassion for the robbery victim and stopped to see how he could help.     After assessing the situation, the Samaritan knelt down over the man, cleaned and bandaged his wounds, lifted the man onto his donkey and took him to an inn. The Samaritan gave the innkeeper some money to take care of the man, and said that if the care of the man ends up costing even more, he would pay the additional expenses when he came back through. In conclusion Jesus asked this question, “which of these three do you think was a neighbor to him who fell among the thieves” (Lk.10:36). To which the lawyer he told the parable to responded, “He who showed mercy or compassion on him” (Lk.10:37). May the same be said of us.

- 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

Why?

By Andrew Beasley

    Why? It is one of the greatest questions a person can ask. At the same time if you have any experience with young children at all it can be one of the more frustrating questions especially when asked in consistent repetition. But as you read this, I hope you will take a moment and contemplate a “why” question. Why do you come to worship? Why do you bother at all? Why take the time on Sunday to come and worship the Creator of the world?

    Is it out of a sense of obligation? Perhaps it is because you have simply gotten in the habit, that this is what you do? Maybe from a young age your parents brought you and you have merely continued that pattern. Is it because you are commanded to do so? There is nothing inherently wrong with any of these being a motivating factor in why you come. I hope you will allow that perhaps the reason for our worship, our assembly, and the daily righteous and just living of our lives should be grounded in adoration first.

    We are obligated to worship God, yes. Our worship of Him should be a habit, yes. We wish to obey Him. But above all else, it is a privilege for us to worship Him? Why?

“For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.” – Psalm95

 

- 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/

Twice Mine

 

By David A. Sargent     Brett Petrillo recently shared this interesting story:     Tom had just finished making his own toy boat. He brought the boat to the edge of a river and started to let out the string tied to it. He was admiring how smoothly his boat cut through the water when a strong current took hold. Tom tried to pull his toy back to shore but the current was too strong and the string snapped. He sprinted along the bank to catch it, but soon his boat drifted out of sight. He desperately searched for the boat until darkness set in. Unsuccessful, he finally gave up the hunt.     Several days later Tom was walking home from school and passed by a toy store. A certain boat caught his eye. He pressed his face against the store window to get a better look and sure enough, it was his lost boat. He ran inside and told the manager, “Sir, that's my boat in your window. I made it myself.”     The manager replied, “Sorry, son, but someone else brought it in this morning. If you want it, you'll have to buy it.”     Tom hurried home and counted all of his money; he had just enough. He rushed back to the store and purchased his beloved boat. As he walked home he held the toy tightly to his chest and said, “Now you're twice mine. First, I made you and now I bought you.” (Good News Publishers, “The Boy Who Lost His Boat”). *     God created mankind in His image (Genesis 1:26-27).  Sadly, due to our wrong choices, each of us has drifted away from God, and we’ve been caught up in the sweeping currents of sin.  In our sin, we’ve become the slave of sin and Satan (John 8:34), which will destroy us (Romans 6:23; 1 Peter 5:8).     But God loves us so much that even though He was the offended party, He paid the price for our redemption.  The price paid for our redemption was the precious blood of His Son Jesus who died on the cross for our sins (1 Peter 1:18-19).  Because of that “purchase,” we can have forgiveness of our sins and receive the gift of eternal life because of our Maker and Savior.     We belong to God by right of CREATION.  He made us, therefore we belong to Him.  Even though we rejected His ownership in our choice to serve sin and Satan, we can “belong” to Him once again through the REDEMPTION that is found in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:7).     God will redeem 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).  Having been redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus, we should live out the rest of our lives seeking to bring glory to Him (see 1 Corinthians 6:19-20).     When we accept God’s offer of redemption, we become “TWICE HIS.”  He made us and He purchased our redemption.  As His possession, we receive ALL of the spiritual blessings that are found in Christ (Ephesians 1:3).     Won’t YOU accept His offer of redemption and eternal life by trusting and obeying Him today?     Won’t YOU?

- 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  From “Twice Mine” by Brett Petrillo in Daily Bread (3/5/13), an e-mail ministry of the Bear Valley church of Christ in Denver, CO.  See www.bearvalleycofc.com