It is Finished

By Bill Brandstatter
    The statement “It is finished” is considered by many to be one of final statements of Jesus as He hung on Calvary’s cross. What did Jesus mean when he referred to “it?” No doubt he was referring to the work the Father gave Him to do. (John 9:4) Jesus came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). Obviously, all the lost were not yet saved when Jesus died. The process for saving them, however, was finished. Jesus put in motion the preaching of the gospel. He gave the Great Commission to His disciples so men could know what to do to be saved (Mark 16:15, 16). He shed His blood to open the door to heaven for Jew and Gentile alike.    Jesus also came that all men might have life (John 10:10). John tells us that “in Him was life, and the life was the light of men.” (John 1:4) Jesus opened the door of life for all those who obey Him (Heb.5:9).     Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil (1 John 3:8). He most definitely did that when he drove out demons from men (Mark. 5:1-20).    Jesus came to set up His church. He laid the foundation (Eph. 2:20). He gave his apostles the entrance requirements and sent them out to preach. All this was done in order to finish the work the Father gave Him to do. (John 17:4)    “It is finished” shows authority.  To say “it is finished” is to say no additions are necessary. When man attempts to add, change, or modify the work of Jesus, he is denying the authority of that statement. God’s work of redemption is done, it is completed.    Peter noted that we have all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). Therefore, nothing more is needed. The plan of salvation is complete. Many today have yet to obey (Rom. 10:16). The old song we sometimes sing says, “Trust and obey for there’s no other way to be happy in Jesus than to trust and obey.” Does that song apply to you? Is your salvation complete? What more must you do?     

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

Who Determines Religious Authority

By Glen Elliott      Our nation is suffocating under the death-grip of anarchy. Disrespect for authority is evidenced in everything from civil disobedience to parental permissiveness. We are following the worldview so prevalent during the turbulent biblical period of the Judges. Scripture describes those days as a time when “every man did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6). Even in the church there are many who discount the certainty of biblical revelation. But, if truth cannot be known, then Jesus was mistaken in asserting that it has the power to set us free from our sins (Jn. 8:32). However, the truth can be understood and is the basis of all religious authority (Eph. 3:4; 1 Cor. 1:10).     God, the Father, has given all authority to His Son, Jesus (Mt. 28:18). At Christ’s transfiguration, we read of a voice speaking out of the cloud which enveloped the disciples, saying, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased; listen to Him!” (Mt. 17:5). Jesus has all authority to speak to men today concerning religious faith and practice (Heb. 1:1-2). We must pay heed to His words as those which will judge us on the last day (Jn. 12:48). God had promised centuries earlier to raise up a prophet like Moses from among their countrymen, saying, “I will put My words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them all that I command him. It shall come about that whoever will not listen to My words which he shall speak in My name, I Myself will require it of him” (Dt. 18:18–19). This prophecy, quoted by Peter in Acts chapter three, is fulfilled in Christ.     Christ’s authority resides in the New Testament. Knowing that He would soon leave His apostles by way of the cross, Jesus promised to send the Spirit of truth so that they could teach and preach the gospel without error (Jn. 14:26: 16:13). The apostles and prophets, who wrote the New Testament, did so as they were moved by the Holy Spirit to speak from God (2 Pet. 1:21). Like those early hearers in Thessalonica, we must accept the Word of Christ as God’s message (1 Th. 2:13). The things written by inspiration are the Lord’s commandments and provide all authority for religious faith and practice.     The councils, creeds, and dogmas of men provide no legitimate authority in religious matters. Nor is there any authority inherent in our own subjective preferences and opinions. The only authority in matters of religion is the Word of God. We must not shudder at the thought of submitting to His authority; but humbly submit, obeying from the heart His Word which alone has the power to save us from our sins and deliver us safely to the eternal paradise of God (Jas. 1:21; Rm. 6:17-18).

- 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/

From Heaven Or From Men?

By Joe Slater       Jesus respected the question of authority. On the morning after He drove the merchants and money changers out of the temple, the Sanhedrin demanded to know, “By what authority are you doing these things? Or who is he who gave You this authority?” (Luke 20:2). They viewed the temple as their own domain, and they certainly hadn’t given Jesus permission to teach there, much less to regulate what occurred on temple grounds. After all, He had not graduated from rabbinical school, so they viewed Him as a presumptuous intruder.     Jesus didn’t deny the need for authority, but neither did He accept their demand for human approval. In an absolutely brilliant maneuver, Jesus changed the focus to divine authority and the Sanhedrin’s total lack of fitness to judge His credentials. He asked a simple multiple-choice question: “The baptism of John – was it from heaven or from men?” (Luke 20:4).     The Sanhedrin certainly hadn’t approved John’s work. He had rebuked some of them, calling them a generation of vipers! (Matthew 3:7). The people, however, correctly counted John to be a prophet (thus having authority from God in heaven). Since the Sanhedrin feared the people, they refused to state their true convictions that John’s authority was from men, that is, he was acting on his own. Instead, they claimed not to know, thereby confessing themselves unfit to judge Jesus’ source of authority.     We should follow Jesus’ example of asking not for human authority, but for divine authority. Every teaching and practice should be put to the test: “Is this from heaven or from men?” Let us teach and do what God authorizes in His word while rejecting all that lacks divine sanction!

- 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

When is “The Truth” the Truth?

By Bill Brandstatter       Some investigations are going on about classified documents. One investigation concerns former President Donald Trump. The other one concerns current President Joe Biden. Both claim they did nothing wrong; however, others are claiming they did. What is the truth?     The truth is what is known. Jesus stated, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32) Every person can know that saving truth the same way. There can be no doubt about it. We have it in writing. God desires that all men be saved and come to knowledge of the truth. (1 Tim. 2:4). In our world of relative morality, we can know for certainty that there is a standard that is reliable. We must use the right authoritative standard in determining what is known.     The truth is what is proclaimed. Often, we don’t want to hear the truth. When Felix heard the truth from Paul, he trembled. Later Paul wrote, “Have I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the truth?” (Gal. 4:16) Paul was just a messenger. Today we need to proclaim the truth in love. (Eph. 4:15) We need to love God and love our fellow man enough for the message of truth to reach their hearts.     The truth is what is written. This follows the other two points quite well. This is a well-known fact. “Put it in writing” is often a statement made to ensure security. When we buy anything, it is always good to put it in writing. I still request this today when I get a call of solicitation. God wanted His Word written down. Paul assures us of the veracity of that which was written before in Rom. 15:4. God had the Old Testament written for “our admonition.” (1 Cor. 10:11) Peter assured his listeners that what was written by the prophets was truthful and was being fulfilled. (Acts 3:24) Jesus mentioned that the prophecies written about Him were being fulfilled. In Luke 24:44 our Lord stated, “All things must be fulfilled that were written in the Law of Moses, and the Prophets, and the Psalm concerning me.” (NKJV). The written truth must be looked at and used correctly. Paul told Timothy the truth must be divided correctly. (2 Tim. 3:15) Often today the truth on any matter may be shaded to fit a particular platform or agenda. Could that happen with the Bible as well?     We can know the truth about our salvation and what God’s will for us is today. We need not trust any source other than the word of God. God wants us to know it. We don’t need to doubt it. It can save us and put us in eternity with Him. Jesus said “Sanctify them by your truth. Your word is truth.” (John 17:17 NKJV)

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

What is the Bible (According to the Bible)?

By Edd Sterchi       As I was reading Heb. 4:12 the other day, I realized that the Bible was trying to tell me what it is. For the word of God The Bible is from God – it is holy, harmonious, and accurate.  is living The Bible is alive – it is active and life giving. and powerful, The Bible is effective – it can change and benefit our lives. and sharper than any two-edged sword, The Bible is “cutting” – it separates right from wrong.  piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, The Bible is penetrating – it can touch us deep in our soul.  and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. The Bible is evaluating – it is the standard by which we will be judged.

- 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/

Not Worth A Plugged Nickel

By Joe Slater

 

    In early America some coins were made with a small silver disc in the center to give them value. A plugged nickel was one with the silver disc removed and replaced with a less valuable metal – thus to this day an item of little or no value is “not worth a plugged nickel.”

    King David wrote long ago, “The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold” (Psalm 19:9b-10a). Another psalmist agreed: “The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of coins of gold and silver” (119:72).

    Tragically, subsequent generations in Israel distorted God’s word with human traditions. At the time Jesus walked this earth, the religious elite viewed those traditions as equal to Scripture or even above it! They sharply criticized Jesus and His disciples for disregarding “the tradition of the elders” (i.e. the ancestors). But Jesus turned the tables on them! “Why do you also transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition?” (Matthew 15:3). Those traditions weren’t worth a plugged nickel! Jesus laid it on the line, applying Isaiah 29:13 to them: “These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor me with their lips. But their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men” (Matthew 15:8-9).

    Members of Christ’s body in the 21st century are not immune from the temptation to elevate human tradition as being equal to God’s word or even above it. Let us be ever vigilant to view Holy Scripture as of supreme value! “Have it your way” (the Burger King slogan) must never be our approach to spiritual matters. Compared to the precious word of God, nothing else is worth a plugged nickel!

- 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 Savior Settles the Issue!

By Edd Sterchi

 

    When did mankind appear upon the earth? Many people disagree. Some think evolution allowed man to ascend from a lower life form. Others think that God created man instantly out of the earth and breathed into him the breath of life (based upon Gen. 1-2). Many Christians even disagree on this issue, despite what the Bible says. Some even blend the two ideas – that God created man via the evolutionary process. Still others say that Gen. 1-2 are poetical accounts of what ancient man believed, but are not fact concerning the origin of man. Sometimes the debate gets quite heated. How can we find the truth?

    What if Jesus could answer the question for us? Would we accept that? Well, He did. When He was questioned about divorce and remarriage in Matthew 19, Jesus then gave an answer that included the origin of the home and the origin of man. In part, He said, “Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female’” (Matthew 19:4).

    Note that Jesus said that God “made” that initial pair. The word Jesus used for “made” in that passage is the word “poieo” and means “to produce, to fashion, to create.” In fact, the English Standard Version has translated that word as “created.” Additionally, the Greek tense (the aorist) indicates that this was an individual specific act. If Jesus wanted to give the impression that God made mankind through a slow, developmental process, He would have used the imperfect tense, which suggests a progressive ongoing action as viewed in the past. But He didn’t, because He knew that they were made all at once.

    Note also that Jesus said that God made them “male and female.” Jesus did not subscribe to the notion that life was originally an asexual or bisexual blob of some sort that ultimately evolved into male and female. He said that they were intentionally created male and female and remained that way all along.

    Finally, note that Jesus said that God made them male and female “at the beginning.” Mark’s parallel passage in Mark 10:6 says that this was at “the beginning of the creation.” Jesus puts mankind at the creation of the world, not millions of years afterwards (cf. Exodus 20:11).

    Without a doubt, Jesus confirmed the idea of divine, intentional, instant creation of mankind as their origin – and He ought to know, for He was there (Genesis 1:26-27; John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:16).

    I know this: If I believe exactly what My Lord knew and spoke about the origin of man, I will not be wrong. Hallelujah, the Savior settles the issue!

- 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/

All Authority

By David A. Sargent

 

    Ken Klaus wrote about an experience that taught him a valuable lesson:

    A year or two ago a friend offered me a ride in his custom Corvette. That machine was beautiful to look at, impressive to sit in. Riding a few inches off the ground, my friend put that contraption through its paces.

    In first gear I was thrown back into the seat. In second gear it felt like the G-force was stretching my face, just like that of the astronauts during a blastoff. In third gear we blew by an 18-wheeler like he was standing still.  It was fantastic!

    Then, when we were doing about 1,000 miles an hour (I may be exaggerating there), we came up on a parked police vehicle. The Vette slowed down. The 18-wheeler slowed down. Everybody slowed down. And that's the point. That Vette had POWER! That 18-wheeler, with a full load and a big diesel engine, had POWER!

    But now that parked police car....., it had AUTHORITY!

    There are in this world a great many groups, individuals and organizations that have POWER. They have the financial, political or logical clout to impress us, seduce us and intimidate us.  But when it comes to AUTHORITY, that's different. *

    Satan has power. “His power lies in his ability to deceive. When we fall for his deceptions, we give him authority over our lives and he takes us captive” (Rob Chaffart). Jesus said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin” (John 8:34). And, “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23).

    But Christ has power AND authority!  He demonstrated these attributes throughout His earthly ministry by His miracles. His most astounding expression of power and authority was demonstrated when He died on the cross for our sins and was resurrected from the dead three days later. By His death, burial, and resurrection, He defeated Satan (cf. Hebrews 2:14) and made our redemption possible! “For God has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Col 1:13-14).

    In order to receive salvation and the gift of eternal life, we must submit our lives to the Authority of Christ by placing our faith and trust in Him (Acts 16:30-31), turning from our sins in repentance (Acts 17:30-31), confessing Him before men (Romans 10:9-10), and being baptized (immersed) into Christ for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38). Then as we continue to submit to His authority in obedience to His will, His blood will continue to cleanse us from sin (1 John 1:7).

    There is power, but then there is power and authority! Jesus has both! 

    In fact, He has “ALL authority” (Matthew 28:18) and He is “the head over every power and authority” (Colossians 2:10). Therefore, He – and only He – has the power and authority to give you victory over sin and death!

    Won’t YOU accept His offer of salvation and life by submitting to His authority?

- 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 “Power and Authority” by Ken Klaus as quoted in www.sermonillustrator.org (site operated by Rob Chaffart).

Choose the Original

By Adam Faughn

  An art dealership recently ran a very odd sale. They had one original sketch from pop artist Andy Warhol for sale, which is not that unusual for an art sale or auction. What made this sale unique, however, was that they also put up for sale 999 elaborate forgeries of the sketch, done on paper that was "aged" by a machine, so they looked like the original in virtually every detail.

   The sellers then randomly sold the 1000 pieces, each for $250, letting buyers know that only one was the original but not telling them which one it was. 999 buyers would end up with a forgery (which is essentially worthless), while one would end up with the original sketch, estimated to be worth around $20,000.

   Now, there is a certain oddity to this type of sale that would draw interest, I suppose. That said, it is hard for me to think about spending a significant amount of money knowing that I would only have a one-in-one-thousand chance of receiving a "real" item and a 999-out-of-one-thousand chance of getting what is essentially a fake. It just does not sound like a solid use of money, does it?

   However, when it comes to our spiritual lives, how many people are doing something even more egregious, and many are doing so intentionally? When we read in Scripture about the Lord's Church, it is abundantly clear that we can go back to the original; that is, we can make certain that we are doing things exactly the way Jesus desires and demands them to be done. Yet, so many intentionally choose to risk their eternal soul on what is, spiritually speaking, a forgery.

   For example:

• The New Testament makes it clear that a person must be immersed in water--baptized--in order to be saved (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; Romans 6:1-3; Galatians 3:27; et al.). That is the "original." So many, though, choose to do something else in order to try to find salvation, things that are conspicuously absent from the New Testament. Why would they think, then, that they are choosing something other than a forgery?

• The New Testament is straightforward in saying that those who lead a congregation as elders and those who serve as deacons must be men who are married and have children (1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 2:5-9). That is the "original." However, in the name of political correctness or "modernity," many choose to ignore those teachings and have women lead or serve in those capacities. Why would anyone intentionally choose this forgery?

• The New Testament is clear that Christians are to sing, but also that singing is to be the extent of that avenue of worship (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 13:15). That is the "original." A tremendous number, though, choose to add to that command by having choirs or praise teams or mechanical instruments of music. Why would someone choose such a forgery?

   The examples could go on, but these should suffice. I chose the story of the art sale, in part, because "all" that was for sale was a sketch. While I certainly could not create such a thing, in terms of pure art, it is not all that impressive. Still, though, the original is the original, and nothing else is! That is what gives it such immense value.

   When people look at the "original" of the New Testament church, they may also see something that can seem a bit outdated, boring, or out-of-step with society. However, it is the original, and nothing can replace it. To replace it or seek to alter it in any way is to destroy something of eternal value because it was given to us by Jesus Himself. As such, we must protect it and seek to make sure we search always for the original in all that we do, never settling for a forgery.

 

"...contend for the faith that was once delivered to the saints"

- Adam Faughn preaches for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.centralchurchofchrist.org Visit the Faughn Family blog, A Legacy of Faith.

Redbuds and Dogwoods

By Joe Chesser

    Every year at this time our part of the world (southeast Missouri) is blessed with the blossoms of redbuds and dogwoods.  In the spring the redbuds sprout their purplish brilliance, followed in a couple of weeks by the equally brilliant white and pink blossoms of the dogwoods. In many areas these trees are planted in such a way as to accent each other.  Our older redbud is blooming brilliantly this year, and a younger one is just beginning to bloom a bit. It has taken a few years, but our dogwood will also bloom soon.
    Each year the spring plants and trees offer us a vivid reminder of God.  It’s not evolution that maintains the laws of nature – it’s God!  If evolution was true (and of course it’s not) things would be constantly inconsistent.  You would never know from one year to the next how evolution would have worked it “magic” and altered the redbuds to start producing yellow blossoms or begin blooming in September instead of late March.  But we know that won’t happen because God is in control of nature and will maintain his laws of nature as long as the world exists.  One of the great things the book of Hebrews says about Jesus is that He not only created the entire universe, but He also sustains “all things by his powerful word” (Hebrews 1:2-3).  That’s why every spring the redbuds and dogwoods put out their beautiful colors.  Because of God, you can count on it year after year!
    Jesus consistently demonstrates His power over the physical realm, and because of this we have reason to believe that He also can and will exercise His power over the spiritual realm.  Redbuds and dogwoods give us evidence for believing that Jesus has all power and all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18).  When Jesus healed the paralytic (Mark 2:1-12) He made the point: “‘But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins…,’ He said to the paralytic, ‘I tell you, get up, take up your mat and go home.’”  Jesus used the visible, healing a crippled man, to expand their vision to also see that He could heal the spiritually crippled.
    If we choose to, redbuds and dogwoods will do the same for us.  They give evidence of His creative power.  They give evidence of His power to maintain His laws.  They give evidence that if He can do that each year, He also can do so much more.  Jesus can give us renewal, new birth (John 3:3-5).  Jesus can maintain our spiritual relationship with him year after year through His power working within us (Ephesians 3:14-21).
    We have no excuses for refusing to believe in Jesus’ power.  King David said, “The heavens declare the glory of God” (Psalm 19:1).  Paul added that “God’s invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse” (Romans 1:20).
    Remember this when you see redbuds and dogwoods every year.

- Joe Chesser preaches for the Fruitland Church of Christ, Fruitland, MO.  He may be contacted at joeandareva@yahoo.com

“Do This” = “Don't Do That”

By Seth Myers

    Without controversy, one can declare that God does not change (Mal. 3:6). But what many may not realize is that the same is true of God’s spiritual principles. Among these is the exclusive nature of God’s “positive” commands—that is, “When God says, ‘Do THIS,’ it means, ‘Don’t do THAT.’” Let us briefly consider the clearest possible example of this spiritual truth.
    Leviticus 10 opens with the account of the divine execution of two men who were in charge of the incense-burning portion of OT worship (1a), which, naturally, required fire. But the fire they offered on this occasion is said to have been “strange” (1b | ASV) to God, or “unauthorized” (ESV) by God. That kind of statement naturally leads the reader to ask this question: “Why was this fire ‘unauthorized’? What was it that made this fire ‘strange’ in God’s sight?” According to the Holy Spirit, the reason it was “unauthorized” is because it was “fire that [God] had never prescribed for them” (ISV)—fire “which he had not commanded them [to make]” (1c).
    When it comes to the manner in which we worship God: if it is not in His word, it better not be in our worship.
    This terminology is extremely significant—for it was NOT that God had said, “You shall NOT make that kind of fire,” and that these two men made that kind of fire anyway; rather, God had simply said, “You shall make THIS kind of fire,” and, therefore, to make any other kind of fire was sin. Unfortunately for these two men, they did just that: they made “Fire B” when God had prescribed “Fire A,” and He repaid their fire with a fire of His own (2). Not one Israelite would have failed to “get the point”—you and I had better “get it,” as well! He didn’t have to specifically condemn or prohibit every single particular thing of which He disapproves. All He has to say is: “Do THIS,” and everything which the mind of man could possibly imagine besides “THIS” is direct rebellion against the word of God.
    The spiritual principle that resulted in the death of Nadab & Abihu has not changed. When it comes to the manner in which we worship God: if it is not in His word, it better not be in our worship. For, if we want our worship to be acceptable to God, we “must worship him in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24).

- Seth Myers preaches for the Highway Church of Christ in Sullivan, IL. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: https://hwycoc.com/

Conflicting Voices

By Joe Slater

    Practically any subject of a religious nature is a  lightning rod for controversy. Some think it’s wrong  even to discuss controversial matters; yet by saying we  should shy away from controversy, they themselves are  being controversial! So, how should we deal with  conflicting voices? Do we just pick one that sounds  good and go with it? Do we blindly follow tradition?  The only safe course is to heed the voice of God, who  speaks to us today through His written word.
    When Jeroboam led the northern ten tribes of Israel  into idolatry, God lovingly sent an unnamed prophet to  warn him of the terrible consequences of his sin  (1 Kings 13). The king, somewhat shaken, invited the  prophet home to be refreshed (rest and have something  to eat). But the prophet declined: “If you were to give  me half your house, I would not go in with you; nor  would I eat bread nor drink water in this place. For so  it was commanded me by the word of the Lord, saying,  ‘You shall not eat bread nor drink water, nor return by  the same way you came’” (vv. 8-9). Now that’s as plain  as language can be!
    But soon a conflicting voice arose. Another  unnamed prophet lied to the man of God: “I, too, am a  prophet as you are, and an angel spoke to me by the  word of the Lord, saying, ‘Bring him back with you to  your house, that he may eat bread and drink water” (v. 18). Sorry to say, the man of God believed the lie,  and it cost him his life.
    Remember Paul’s admonition to the Galatians: “But  even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other  gospel to you that what we have preached to you, let  him be accursed” (Galatians 1:8). 
    Trust God! Reject the conflicting voices!

- 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

Religious Experiences

By Joe Slater

    Does having a “religious experience” save you (or prove that you are saved)? Some religious groups require one to relate a religious experience; then they decide whether that experience shows the person is saved and should be granted membership. How does this compare to the New Testament record?
    In Acts 2, the Jews in Jerusalem definitely had a religious experience! “And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they (the 120) were sitting . . . And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language” (2:2, 6). But even though it was supernatural, that “experience” didn’t save anyone! When the apostles preached the gospel, 3000 believed and responded in repentance and immersion, thus receiving salvation.
    Who can deny that Saul of Tarsus had a religious experience in Acts 9? “Suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?’” (9:3-4). Contrary to popular belief, this experience didn’t save Saul. God sent Ananias to tell him what to do; Saul “arose and was baptized” (9:18).
    Cornelius certainly could lay claim to having a religious experience. An angel of God appeared, telling him to send for Peter (Acts 10:1-6). But that experience didn’t save him! Peter told him “words by which you and all your household will be saved” (Acts 11:14). Cornelius and his household obeyed the gospel just like all the others (Acts 10:47-48).
    Even if you had a supernatural experience today (which you won’t), that wouldn’t save you! “Arise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord!” (Acts 22:16)

- 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

Building RESPECT FOR AUTHORITY in Your Children

By Jim Faughn

     “No!” – Some who will read this article will remember a time that now seems so long ago when that simple two-letter word put an end to misbehavior on the part of children. When that word was spoken by a parent, a teacher, or any other authority figure, it was typical for no further action to be necessary. On those occasions when further action was necessary, that action was carried out, usually without much delay. 
     How the tables have turned! In today’s world, it is not uncommon to hear that word spoken loudly, defiantly, and forcefully by a child to a parent, teacher, and/or some other authority figure who is attempting [in vain, it seems] to guide or correct the child. While one Christian or one family may not be able to change an entire society, Christian parents are concerned about instilling in their children a healthy respect for authority. They recognize that many of the ills of our society can be traced to a lack of respect for authority. They further realize that this is a matter of eternal importance. If a child does not learn to respect earthly authority figures, how can he or she learn to respect the One before whom all of us will stand in judgment (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:10)?
     Hopefully looking at some key words in the above title will be helpful to parents and others. 
     Authority – Whatever else one may say about the God whom we serve, it must be recognized that order is a fundamental concept. Fundamental to order is the concept of authority. We well remember the condition that existed in the days of the Judges when it was reported, “In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25; see also 17:6). 
     Respect – Multiple citations could be given from the Scriptures to demonstrate God’s desire for His people to honor the elderly, governmental officials, elders, and other faithful servants of the Lord, parents, etc. A good summary statement of this concept may be found in Romans 13:7: “Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.” 
     Children – While not inspired, there is more than a grain of truth in the statement, “As the twig is bent, so grows the tree.” Proverbs 22:6 still advised the reader to “Train up a child...” [emphasis mine]. How sad it is for parents to recognize far too late that they should have been trying to instill in their children a respect for authority from the earliest months of their lives onward. 
     Your – One of the “life lessons” that some parents and all children need to learn is that it is irrelevant what other families are doing with regards to honoring God and obeying Him. Christian parents in today’s society need to have the same attitude that Joshua of old had: “...as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15). 
     In – Our Lord told us that thoughts, attitudes, and actions come “from the heart” (Matthew 15:18). It is to be remembered that true conversion takes place when one obeys "from the heart" (Rom. 6:17). Respect for authority must be instilled. 
     Building –Just as there are certain things that are helpful in building a physical structure, there are similar things that are helpful in building a respect for authority in children. It is hoped that the ones discussed here will serve as a "springboard" for further study and discussion. While the following are not presented as being comprehensive, they are some of the things that are necessary.
     Time – No building of any significance is built in a day or two. Respect for authority begins to "take shape" over days, weeks, months, and years of effort. 
     Blueprint – We have the perfect blueprint. It has the words Holy Bible on its cover. Every parent needs to strive for consistency in applying its teaching. 
     Teamwork – Fathers and mothers [often with the help of some good brothers and sisters in the Lord] should work together—not pull in opposite directions—to achieve the worthy and eternally important goal of building respect. 
     Example – In human relations, a popular term today is "mentoring." In the building trades, a similar term and concept is that of being an "apprentice." Responsibilities are gradually "handed off" to the next generation which has learned much of what it knows from observation. We need to make sure we are "handing off" a healthy and proper respect for authority. 
     Foundation – None of the other things mentioned or any of the others that could be mentioned are of any value without a proper foundation. While we primarily think in terms of the church, it should be true as well with regards to families and individual lives that "other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 3:11). 
     Purpose – Why is the proposed structure being built? That will go a long way in determining how it is built. Parents should "build" respect in their children because they realize that the purpose for our existence is to bring glory and honor to our Father and to our Savior. 
      May God help all of us to strive for that in our own lives and to do all we can to instill that desire in those who are coming along after us.

- Jim Faughn, a retired preacher, serves as an elder for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.centralchurchofchrist.org 

He Has Plans For You!

By Jeff Arnette

     Can you imagine how encouraging it would be to walk into a job interview and hear the employer say, “I already have plans for you.” Knowing we had a place in the company might be encouraging. However, knowing that the company recognized our potential and was already forming specific plans for our work with them would really get us excited. It would mean that we have been assured of a good future with this company and that would make the physical work joyful, something we looked forward to each day.
     Shouldn’t we have the same view of our life with God? Honestly, God’s view of our life should encourage us. Just think about the enormity of this! Even before you lived one day of your life, God knew you and what you would accomplish in this life (Psalm 139:16). This should encourage us to entrust our lives to Him, making each new day a new opportunity to fulfill His grand will for our life? Do not doubt that God has good things in store for you.
     The Lord spoke to the prophet Jeremiah and told him to share this simple message: I will visit you, fulfill my promises to you, and bring you back to this place (Jer. 29:10-11). He then says that He knows the plans He has for our lives, plans for good and not evil, plans to give us a future and hope. What more could we want? Our God knows us, knows our talents and abilities, and has a plan for us.
     No matter where you are at currently, God still has plans for you. As you submit to His plans and His will for your life, He can make all things work together for your good (Rom. 8:28). With God on your side, there is nothing that you cannot accomplish, and nothing is beyond your ability. Remember, His plans for you are not evil but for your good.
     In Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesus, he said, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10, ESV)
    Do you realize what that means for you? As you walk with Jesus, equipped, and strengthened to accomplish the things He has called us to do in this life, we are merely stepping into the flow of what He already had in mind for us. Living following His Will, we can be encouraged that with Him, we always have “a future and a hope.” With God, this life is no accident!
     Do not doubt that God has plans for you, and when you embrace it by faith, trusting in His plans, life is lived to its fullest.
“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20–21, ESV)

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

The Rule of Law

by Bill Brandstatter

    When candidate Trump was running for President, he stated that he was going to enforce the current laws on immigration that were already on the books. A law in 1952 gives him the right to do what he is currently doing with immigration. Other presidents have done it, so is he. Yet there is a big outcry about his decision. Laws are made to be enforced. Laws are made for our good. Some hold the view, “Laws are made to be broken.” God’s people are ones who have laws that must be obeyed.
    In the Old Testament, laws were expected to be obeyed. .At the end of the Old Testament, the Lord speaking through Malachi stated, “Remember the law of Moses, My servant, which I commanded him for all Israel, with the statutes and judgments” (Mal. 4:4 NKJV). Mankind has always been reminded to obey the laws, not make new ones of their own. Many today want to make new laws on morality and number of other issues and ignore the law of God.
     Some today may believe there is no law in Christianity. They might emphasize the grace of God instead. However, we are under law today. That law is Christ’s law. Paul described it as “under law toward Christ” (1 Cor. 9:21). James described a law that all Christians are to obey as the “perfect law of liberty” (James 1:25). The Psalmist wrote: “the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul” (Ps. 19:7). Paul described the law of the Lord as “holy, just, and good.” (Rom. 7:12). All these adjectives describing the law indicate there is nothing better. There is no need to appeal to a higher court. There is no higher court. Christ has all authority (Matt. 28:18; John 5:27).  John writes, “For this is the love of God that we keep His commandments, and His commandments are not burdensome.”(1 Jn. 5:3). We therefore cannot love God unless we keep His commandments or laws.
    The Bible plainly indicates we are under a law today. What does it mean to be under law? It means we are to obey the law or consequences will result. Laws are meant to be obeyed, not broken. Paul commands Christians to obey civil law (Rom. 13:1).  As with any law, a violation brings repercussions. This general principle is stated by Paul in Gal. 6:7 when he states, “Whatever a man sows, that will he also reap.” The punishment for obeying Christ’s law may not come in this life, however (Jn. 12:48) The punishment is far reaching and everlasting. Jesus will take vengeance on those who don’t know Him and don’t obey Him (2 Thess. 1:7, 8). However, God’s law is always superior to man’s law. That is why Peter and the other apostles stated,” We ought to obey God rather than men.”(Acts 5:29).
    We ought to be content with the laws that are given to us in the New Testament. Are we satisfied with them, or do we think we can change them to fit the situation? We don’t need any others. Christ has the perfect way. To follow it means heaven will one day be our home.

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

Who’s to Say What’s Right?

By Joe Chesser

    We live in a land of freedom. We have the freedom of religion, the right of free speech and the right to bear arms. We have the right to a speedy trial and protection against cruel and unusual punishment. These, among other things, are specified in our nation’s Bill of Rights. We are an independent people. We have the right, within reason and law, to do whatever we want whenever we want to do it. As Americans, we can believe what we choose, vote the way we choose, and live the way we choose.
    Unfortunately, many have allowed these freedoms to permeate the way they view God and the Bible. Many have put themselves in the place of God to determine what is right and what is not. The freedom to choose how we live as citizens of the United States has, for many, become the same standard used in deciding how we are to live as citizens of God’s kingdom.
    For example, let’s consider sexual morality. In America, anything is OK as long as it is right for you and doesn’t harm kids or pets. If teenagers want to have sex, who’s to say that it’s wrong for them to do so? If people want to live together outside of marriage, who has the right to say that they shouldn’t? If people want to marry others of their own gender, who has the right to oppose it? If people want to get a divorce because they don’t like their spouse any more, who’s to say that’s wrong? In fact, those decisions may actually be very good ones, they may be the best choice under the circumstances – at least from a human perspective.
    But, is what we think is good and right necessarily what God thinks is good and right? Many have become so accustomed to making their own choices that they have come to believe that whatever they think must also be what God thinks. They have, in effect, imposed their views upon God. They have decided that if they think something is good (i.e. sex outside of marriage) then God must also think that it is good. How can God condemn something that is good?
    Cunningly, Satan has persuaded us to become our own god. We have begun to judge God by our own goodness rather than judging ourselves by God’s standard – His Son Jesus and the words of Jesus, the Bible. God is our standard. His word is our only way of determining right and wrong (John 12.48). Let’s not get sucked in to the way of thinking of those around us. Let’s not judge God by ourselves, but ourselves by God. Let’s take on the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5).

- Joe Chesser preaches for the Fruitland Church of Christ, Fruitland, MO.  He may be contacted at joeandareva@yahoo.com 

Holding Traditions

By Rob Albright

    Paul told the church in Thessalonica to “hold to the traditions which you were taught” (2 Thess. 2:15). What traditions was he talking about?
    It is important to know that there are two different kinds of traditions. HUMAN traditions can be good or bad. It depends on how you use them. A human tradition is just a way of doing something over a period of time. A human tradition is something that can be changed. Meeting together on Sunday at 11 A.M. can be changed to 10 A.M. without violating any Biblical teaching. The same can be said about the number of songs we sing in our assemblies and the number of prayers offered.
    The other kind of tradition is DIVINE. This is the kind of tradition Paul was talking about in our text above. This is the kind of tradition that has been handed down through the generations by the inspired writers of the Bible. If we choose to change divine tradition we are disorderly (2 Thess. 3:6). Divine traditions teach us what God wants in His church.
    So, following the traditions of the New Testament for our pattern for faith and practice is a good thing. Following the blueprint given by God for building our Christian life and worshiping God is a good thing.
    Also, understanding the difference between and human tradition a divine tradition will go a long way in “keeping the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Eph. 4:2).

- Rob Albright serves as one of the ministers at the Northwest Church of Christ in Greensboro, NC. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.nwchurchofchrist.com/

Who is in Charge?

By Rob Albright

    We probably have met people who apparently have everything they could ever want or need, only to find out later they have become disillusioned and have their priorities all jumbled up. We read about a celebrity who has it all – fame, money and the hottest car in the world, but suddenly take their own life. The general public is left to ask, “Why?”
    One of the possible answers is because they have lost a reason to continue living. Money and fame leave people without a purpose to go on because all that is in this world is temporary. Yes, we are blessed to have many things in this world to use to the glory of God. But they soon are gone. So, what is important here?
    For the Christian who sees life with purpose under the Lord’s control, life is good. “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).
    When we put our trust in God, we find peace (Phil.4:7) and the reason for life. “Fear God; keep His commands” (Ecc. 12:13b).
     So, who is in charge of our life?

- Rob Albright serves as one of the ministers at the Northwest Church of Christ in Greensboro, NC. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.nwchurchofchrist.com/

A Higher Power

By Alan Smith

    Sunday school teachers are sometimes amazed at some of the things their children say in class.  One Sunday, a class was studying the power of kings and queens in Bible times.  After talking about a few examples, the teachers said, "There is a higher power.  Can anybody tell me what it is?"
    Without hesitation, one child blurted out, "Aces!"
    Somebody's been playing too much poker!  The correct answer, though, is one that we all tend to overlook.  Our Lord God Almighty is a higher power.  Higher than kings and queens.  Higher than presidents and prime ministers.  We tremble at world leaders like Adolph Hitler, Idi Amin, and Saddam Hussein.  We sometimes tremble at the powers of our own government when matters of morality are disregarded.  We feel helpless when it seems like the "kingdoms of this world" are gaining the upper hand.
    We need to remember, though, that the final victory is assured for God and His followers.  Our confidence is not in any worldly leader.  Our confidence is in the God who is over all nations.
    "How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth!....For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise. God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne." (Psalm 47:2,7-8)
Have a great day!

- Alan Smith, author of the popular "Thought For Today," and minister for the Fayetteville Church of Christ in Fayetteville, NC, may be contacted at alansmith.servant@gmail.com

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