The Wheat and the Tares

By Dale J. Babinsky
    Have you ever planted a garden and struggled to tell the difference between young plants and weeds? Many gardeners, especially those starting from seed, find it difficult to distinguish between the two. This challenge is at the heart of the biblical Parable of the Tares, which follows the Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13. Both parables use agricultural imagery to teach about the growth and spread of God’s kingdom, but the Parable of the Tares introduces a new element: the presence of weeds among the wheat.    In Matthew 13:24-27, Jesus describes a man who sows good seed in his field. Unlike cheap seed mixed with weeds, this seed is pure. Jesus later explains that He Himself is the sower, spreading the good seed—the Word of God—throughout the world. Just as Jesus scattered the seed everywhere, believers are called to do the same, sharing the message in all places and circumstances (Matthew 24:14; 28:19; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:47; Colossians 1:5-6).    The field represents the world, and the good seed produces the “sons of the kingdom”—those who are obedient and fruitful (Matthew 12:46-50). However, alongside the wheat, tares (weeds) also grow. In the Mediterranean, a weed called darnel closely resembles wheat until it matures. Roman law even punished those who sowed darnel among wheat as an act of revenge, highlighting the real-life relevance of Jesus’ parable. When harvest time comes, the wheat is gathered and preserved, while the tares are burned—a clear reference to Judgment Day (Matthew 13:40-43).   The parable continues in Matthew 13:27-28, where an enemy deliberately sows bad seed among the good. This isn’t just a case of mixed seed; it’s a second, malicious sowing. Jesus identifies the enemy as Satan, who sows chaos, lies, and confusion in the world (Matthew 13:38-39). While Jesus sows truth and righteousness, Satan’s influence leads people astray, often in subtle ways that are not immediately obvious. The result is a world filled with individuals who do not follow God, each doing what seems right in their own eyes.    God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33), yet the world is full of religious confusion. There are thousands of denominational groups, all claiming to wasfollow the same God but teaching different paths to salvation. This diversity of doctrine, often contradictory, is a result of Satan’s deceptive work. Revelation 12:7-9, 15-17 describes Satan’s ongoing war against God and believers, spreading false teachings and encouraging people to “just follow your heart” or choose whatever belief system suits them.     In this environment, it is crucial to be rooted in the good seed—the Gospel message sown by Jesus, which alone has the power to save (Galatians 1:6-9; James 1:21; Romans 1:16). A time of harvest is coming, when those who practice lawlessness will be separated from those who follow God’s will (Matthew 13:40-42; 7:21; 15:13-14; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9). The confusion sown by Satan makes the task of evangelism more challenging, as the world sees division and doubts the truth (John 17:20-21).    The world is full of tares—those who do not follow God. But why not uproot them now? The parable teaches that the field is the world and that both good and evil will coexist until the final harvest. While believers are called out of the world, they still live in it and can have a positive influence. Sometimes, what appears to be a tare today may become wheat tomorrow. Ultimately, the separation will come at harvest time, when the true nature of each will be revealed.    Satan has sown much confusion, but it is vital to ensure we are following the right seed—the truth of Jesus. By doing so, we can be confident of our place in the “barn” rather than the fire. As the parable concludes: “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

- 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/

Deliver Me from Temptation

 

By Glen Elliott     Jesus was tempted (Mt. 4:1-11; Heb.4:15). We struggle with temptation. It is simply part of the human condition. Each of us battle inward desires which can bring sin into our lives (Jas. 1:13-15). Satan is the tempter (Mt. 4:3). We must engage him in spiritual warfare by the strength which God supplies (2 Cor. 10-4-6; Eph. 6:10-13). We better get our minds firmly set on the life and death struggle each of us must face or be lost through our own carelessness or neglect!     Satan makes temptation attractive. He sugar-coats sin. He wraps it up in a nice, little package. Sin has pleasures associated with it (Heb. 11:25). These pleasures manifest themselves in many ways. Satan knows that all people are not tempted in the same way. So, like a skillful fisherman, he makes each lure appropriate to the person being tempted. Each person is “tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own desires” (Jas. 1:14). Sin feels good. But, its consequences are heart-breaking (Rm. 6:23).     No one is immune to the evil influence of Satan’s temptation. Deliverance is more than a sentence-prayer (Mt. 6:13). We must not be ignorant of Satan’s schemes against us (2 Cor. 2:11). We must keep watch in prayer (Mt. 26:41). We must treasure up God’s word in our hearts as a safeguard against sin (Ps. 119:11). We must trust God completely rather than lean on our own strength (Prov. 3:5). We cooperate in the process of deliverance by making firm resolutions (e.g. Dan. 1:8); by putting ourselves in the company of those who will encourage right choices (Heb. 10:23-25); and, by fleeing before temptation has opportunity to ensnare us in its web (2 Tim. 2:22). Above all, remember that God is faithful and will provide the way of escape (1 Cor. 10:13).  Deliverance is ours through faith in Christ Jesus (1 Jn. 5:4; Rm. 8:37).

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/

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).

"Not's" in the Devil's Tale

By Clifton Angel

    Satan is a liar, and the father of it (John 8:44). His first deception recorded for us is found at Genesis 3:1. Satan said, "Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every  tree  of  the  garden?"  In  other  words,  "Did  God  really  say  you  are forbidden to eat of every tree of the garden?" God said, "Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it" (Genesis 2:16–17).
    His second lie recorded for us is found at Genesis 3:4. Satan said, "Ye shall not surely die." God said, "for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die" (Genesis 2:17). In both occasions, Satan added only one word: "NOT." So, let us note 6 "not"s in the Devil's Tale.
    Jesus  said,  "He  that  believeth  and  is  baptized  shall  be  saved"  (Mark  16:16). Satan says, "He that believeth and is NOT baptized shall be saved."
    Jesus said, "Seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness" (Matthew 6:33). Satan says, "Seek NOT first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness." Satan  wants  us  to  put  the  things  of  this  world—our  jobs,  our  hobbies,  our sports, our passions, our talents, our families, etc.—above the church, which is the kingdom of God.
    Jesus  said,  "If  ye  love  me,  ye  will  keep  my  commandments"  (John  14:15). Satan  says,  "If  you  love  Jesus,  you  will  NOT  keep  His  commandments." Besides, Jesus' love on the cross covers all sins, so just stop trying to avoid sin, right? That's a lie of the devil.
    Jesus prayed to the Father, "That they may be one, even as we are one" (John 17:22). It is Satan's endeavor, "That they may NOT be one." And how vastly is the religious world listening to Satan. How many different denominations are there today? Why don't we just go back to the Bible and be a part of Jesus' ONE church?
    Jesus  said,  "The  wicked  shall  go  away  into  eternal  punishment"  (Matthew 25:46). Satan says, "The wicked shall NOT go away into eternal punishment." How  many  do  you  know  that  when  someone  dies  they  say  that  person  is automatically  going  to  heaven.  It  does  not  matter  if  they  were  ungodly, adulterers, drunkards, fornicators, etc., they are going to heaven.
    God said, "Ye may know that ye have eternal life" (1 John 5:13). Satan says, "Ye may NOT know that ye  have  eternal  life." How many  Christians  do we know that understand the Bible's teaching that we CAN fall from grace, yet they live their lives on eggshells as if we fall in and out of it all day long. We need to remember 1 John 1:7 and strive to walk in the light, so that, we can "know that we have eternal life."
    Satan is a liar, and the father of it (John 8:44). Have you fallen prey to his lies? 

- 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/

Be Not Deceived!

By Joe Slater

     Of all the ungodly things one might do to me, I consider deceiving me to be among the least tolerable. I simply detest being lied to! In Scripture, words like deceive, deceit, deceitful, etc., are used at least fifty times and mean to give a false impression, to misrepresent, to ensnare or trap, or to lead astray.
     Revelation 12:9 speaks of Satan as the one who “deceives the whole world.” When we first see Satan in the Bible, he is lying to Eve about eating the forbidden fruit (Genesis 3:1-5). No wonder Jesus said, “When he (Satan) speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it” (John 8:44).
     Paul told the brethren in Corinth (and, by extension, told us) “I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:3). Satan doesn’t appear to us in physical form as he did to Eve, but he is still in business and has assistants galore! False teachers plagued the church at Corinth, and their spiritual descendants remain today. “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works” (2 Corinthians 11:13-15).
     Brethren, we are not immune from deception! Satan his had thousands of years to perfect his technique. Let us heed the Bible’s repeated admonition, “Be not deceived!” (Luke 21:8; 1 Corinthians 6:9 & 15:33; Galatians 6:7). “Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12).

- 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

Whose Bible Are You Following?

By Edd Sterchi

    Recently I read an article that listed some of the statements from the introductory chapters of the Satanic Bible. Here are just three of them (note: there are many more).

- Satan represents indulgence instead of abstinence!
- Satan represents vengeance instead of turning the other cheek!
- Satan represents all of the so-called sins, as they all lead to physical, mental or emotional gratification.

    Did you notice anything concerning today’s society in that list? These are some philosophies that are very present in “modern” thinking. We shouldn’t be surprised at people thinking only of themselves and demanding that their sinful lifestyles be accepted by society. Jesus told us that many would take that path (which leads to destruction, Matt. 7:13). As children of God, we need to not only be appalled by these philosophies of unrighteousness, but we need to expose them for what they really are (centered around Satan).
    We are either following the doctrine of Satan or God (Matt. 12:30). Whose Bible are you following and professing?

- 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 Devil's Schemes

By Ron Adams

FACTS
Stop signs don’t stop cars–people still fail to stop.
Laws don’t stop crime–people still commit crimes.
God’s commandments don’t stop sin–people still sin.

When something is prohibited by law or command it doesn’t prevent someone from doing it. Road signs only regulate traffic. Laws against an activity only state that it is against the law to do it. God’s prohibitions only state what is forbidden. The “teeth” in a law or a command is in the punishment (consequence).

The tree of knowledge of good and evil in the garden of Eden was easily accessible. There was no fence or wall around it. No locked gate. Adam and Eve had the ability and opportunity to eat it’s fruit at any time. God’s command did not keep them from eating the fruit of that tree.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
GOD SAID
The Lord God commanded the man, saying, “From any tree of the garden you may eat freely; but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat from it you will surely die.” Genesis 2:16-17

SERPENT SAID The serpent said to the woman, “You surely will not die. For God knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Genesis 3:4-5

SATAN’S STRATEGY
Deny the consequence. Won’t die.
(Plant the seed of doubt.)

Promote the benefits. Will gain knowledge, be like God.(Plant the seed of desire.) Question God’s motive. Why?
(Plant the seed of distrust.)

THE SLIPPERY SLOPE
First – Doubt the consequences. (Doubt either the possibility or the severity.)
DEFENSE: Don’t doubt or question the awesome power of God.

Second – Consider the benefits. (Savor the thought of having or doing.)
DEFENSE: Look past it and focus on the consequences that will surely follow.

Third – Question the reason for the prohibition. (Why is it prohibited?)
DEFENSE: Realize your wisdom is limited; trust God’s infinite wisdom.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
STAND FIRM

Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. Ephesians 6:11

For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.1 John 5:3

God’s commands are given for our benefit: 

(1) to lead us in the right direction and, 

(2) to keep us from harm.

- Ron Adams publishes F.Y.C., a monthly publication. Bible references are from the NASB except where another translation is referenced. Back issues are archived at http://ra10ar.com Be thoughtful and kind. All rights reserved. © 2021

If the Devil Had a Social Media Account

By Adam Faughn

    Just a few years ago, we never could have imagined having such a resource as social media. Although email was a big deal, the reach and impact of such sites as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram is nothing short of remarkable. None of these sites is good or bad in themselves, but how they are used decides the proper use of them.
    Knowing this I just wonder how it would look if our enemy, the devil (1 Peter 5:8), opened an account. I wonder what would populate his social media feed. Here are some possible things he might share with the world:

• I imagine he would share things that might not be true but that simply prove his point. After all, he is the father of lies (John 8:44), so why would it matter if what he shared wasn't "fully" true?
• I imagine he would share things that made people think less of each other instead of things that built others up. He might even do so through subtle or innocent-sounding comments, so as not to be obvious in what he is trying to do.
• I imagine he would find it helpful to chime in on virtually every big event, news story and movement, trying to make sure people know how right he was and how he always looks so righteous. That way, people would be drawn to him as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14)
• I imagine he would share things that promote shows, movies, music, books, and games that aren't "that bad" but that contain some level of questionable morality. After all, if he can tempt us with just something little and get us hooked with the plotline or cool characters or great beat, he can slip in a little darker material soon enough (and, who knows, maybe we will even promote it ourselves).
• I imagine he would share things that constantly show how awful the world is, so we would distrust virtually anyone who is not just like me. And he would consider it a bonus if he could get Christians to distrust each other because then they will not work together to save souls. They would be too busy arguing among themselves about politics or economic matters or other news items for all the world to see.
• I imagine he would share things that are snarky, sarcastic, and cutting, just to see if he can get under people's skin, especially if it is over an issue that is multifaceted. However much he can get people to not think and, instead, just react, his job gets far easier. And, if they react with other cutting and sarcastic comments, it becomes even easier.
• I imagine he would share things that, in the long run, do not matter. After all, he does not have to get Christians to hold sinful positions; he just has to keep them distracted from their real work of preaching the Gospel to the whole world.

    I do not follow the devil on social media, but I do have my own personal accounts. Have I, in the things I share and the way I interact, given my enemy a voice to do his work through my social media?

"When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent." (Proverbs 10:19)

- 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.

Simon the Samaritan Sorcerer

By Joe Slater

    Obeying the gospel doesn’t make you immune from temptation. The case of Simon the Samaritan Sorcerer clearly illustrates the life-long tug-of-war between sin and righteousness, pride and humility, faithfulness and disloyalty.
    All we know about Simon from Scripture comes from Acts 8:9-24. Before hearing the gospel from Philip, Simon practiced sorcery (literally “magic” – not cute tricks like pulling a rabbit out of a hat, but occult magic). Simon proudly claimed to be someone great, and the astonished people of Samaria proclaimed that he was “the great power of God” (8:10).
    When Simon saw Philip performing real miracles, he grasped the difference between true miracles and the fraudulent ones he had used to deceive people. Having heard Philip preaching the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, Simon humbled himself enough to believe and submit to baptism (immersion) (Acts 8:13).
    Satan wasn’t finished with Simon, though. When the apostles Peter and John came, Simon saw them laying their hands on the new Christians to impart supernatural gifts. He offered the apostles money if they would enable him to give miraculous gifts through the laying on of his own hands (8:18-19). His prideful craving to be seen as someone great had returned!
    Peter rebuked Simon, telling him to repent and pray for forgiveness (8:20-22). Note that he didn’t tell him to be immersed for the remission of sins again; nor did he tell him that he had never been saved in the first place. Simon humbled himself and pleaded with Peter to pray for him (8:24).
    We aren’t immune from temptation. When we yield to it, then we, like Simon, must repent and pray.

- 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

Don’t Underestimate Your Enemy!

By Jeff Arnette

“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.” (2 Timothy 3:12–13, ESV)
    Every person who has made the good decision to become a Christian; every person who tries to live a godly life, will eventually face persecution for their faith. It is inevitable, sad, but inevitable.
    This is true because scriptures say it is true (and that settles it), but also because of our enemy. Behind all the visible evidences of sin and wickedness there is the invisible, spiritual powers at work. They are led by our enemy and adversary, Satan. These powers are present everywhere and they infiltrate every place, even the church. They are trying to overthrow and destroy every sincere disciple of Jesus.
    “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8, ESV) Satan is our adversary, the one who stands against us and he is a powerful enemy. We cannot afford to overestimate his power nor to think that he is not working against us. We must always be watchful and thinking clearly about him and his attacks. He is constantly on the prowl searching for a Christian who is alone or weak, so that he can attack and devour them.
    Since this is true, it is extremely dangerous to oversimplify the Christian life and our spiritual warfare. It is unwise, if not downright neglectful, for followers of Jesus to underestimate the powers that oppose them.
    Paul tells us about our enemy and the warfare that is facing us in Ephesians 6:10-13.

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.” (ESV)

God has given us the strength and power we need to face our adversary. He has given us His armor to wear. The all-powerful God of creation has given us His personal armor to wear so that Satan cannot hurt us. Please put it on and prepare for the battle that is inevitable.

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

Satan’s Success and Loss

By Ron Thomas

     The forces of Satan are in denial. Those who serve the “god of this world” deny they are serving the “god of this world” because the very idea is repugnant. Yet, they are doing so, though they do so unknowingly. It is unknowingly (or ignorantly) because they do not know the Lord’s will (John 12:48) and they do not know the powerful force of the “god of this world.” “Therefore rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time" (Revelation 12:10, NKJV). The Scripture also speaks of the devouring force of man’s adversary. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8).
     When people look and consider Satan, the very idea of serving such evil is out of the question; people do not want to be associated with anything like this recognized evil – and they will tell you in strong language. They are unaware, however, that Satan knows this better than they do, so he disguises himself as an angel of light, “And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds” (2 Corinthians 11:14-15, ESV). By so disguising himself, people in every community think they are standing for the right when they stand for a fluid morality and a fluid Christianity. What was considered wrong in yesteryear is no longer wrong this year. Such ways of thinking, such a way to approach life makes Satan smile.
     It was once considered proper to discipline children with corporal punishment, but now it is considered abuse. It was once wrong to have an adulteress affair, now it is not nearly as wrong as it once was (people still subscribe to it being wrong, but they can’t tell you why it is). It was once wrong to lie, but now it is more accepted (especially if one is in the business world). It was once wrong to have two people of the same gender engage in intimacy, but now in many parts of the community it is not wrong at all. It was once wrong to confuse your identity (transgender), but now all one needs to do is claim he is a she and demand acceptance. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? (Jeremiah 17:9). When one leans on his own understanding – Satan will win.
     Try as we might – the Christian must stand and fight. He knows that his battle is up-hill, but to fail to exert herself in this engagement is not an option. Each Christian is to contend earnestly for the faith once and for all delivered to the saints. The manner is which this is done is, first, by the life of holiness lived and, second, by telling others about Jesus and the judgment to come. He does this because it is the bedrock of morality; she does this because the bedrock of morality for the community is the only moral compass that eliminates moral confusion. They do this because without the Lord’s guidance, numerically, the forces of Satan will win the battle of numbers. Right now, the evil force of the “god of this world” clearly has numerical superiority.
     It is this way because the Scripture tells as much. “We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one” (1 John 5:19). It is worth the time for each Christian to stand opposed to the forces of evil as seen in the “god of this world,” but our success won’t be in numerical superiority, it will be in the hope that is laid up for us when this life is over. A huge proportion of humanity walks the wide road that leads to destruction, but while you have life there is opportunity for you to turn someone away from that wide/broad path that leads to destruction.
We do this because, in the end, Satan already lost; be sure he does not take you with him in his descent!

- Ron Thomas preacher for the Sunrush Church of Christ, Chillicothe, OH. He may be contacted through the congregation's website. http://sunrushchurchofchrist.com/                        

They Were “Only” Fishermen!

By Jeff Arnette

     Why does it seem like being a disciple of Jesus is so challenging? Why does it seem like such a difficult undertaking? I think there are several reasons behind this. Sometimes I think it could be a lack of commitment. Sometimes I think it is because we are an unwillingness to give ourselves completely to Jesus. Sometimes I think we don’t truly understand what it means to be disciples. Sometimes I think that we just don’t make time for Jesus and following him.
     Each of these could be legitimate or they could be a combination of each. Each person is a complicated array of experiences and mistakes; misunderstanding and rebellion, sinner and saint. To just assign a person to any one category is short-sighted at best.
     The problem that plagues us the most is not any of these (although they can be true and often plague us). I think the problem we face most often is that we don’t think we can be good disciples.
     We have allowed Satan to convince us that we are sinners, not saints. Or that we cannot be a disciple because we are simply not good enough. This causes us to look at the people of God, read the stories, examine their lives, and teachings only to conclude that we will never be like them.
     Satan says,

• You’re a sinner because you sin daily!
• Your identity is connected to what you’ve done (sin=condemned and rejected).
• Your identity comes from what others think about you (just like everyone else).
• Your behavior dictates what you should believe about yourself (discouraged and defeated).

     Christian, don’t ever accept these lies from Satan. Instead, chose to listen to what God says about you. He will not lie to you nor try to lead you astray. You are His beloved child. Believe it!
     God says,

• You’re a saint (Eph. 1:1) declared righteous in Jesus (Rom. 4:1-5).
• Your identity is connected to what God has done (John 3:15; Rom. 5:8).
• Your identity comes from what God thinks about you (Eph. 2:4-10; Gal. 3:25-29).
• Your belief about yourself determines your behavior (Rom. 8:1-2, 28, 31-39).

     Just like the first disciples of Jesus (Matt. 4:18-22), who were simple fishermen, Jesus can make you into something you never dreamed possible if you are willing to allow Him to have his way. Give yourself completely to Him and by faith, let Him lead.

    Matthew 4:19     “… Follow me, and I will make you…” (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/ 

How to Beat the Devil

By David Bragg

     In 2002 The New York Times ran a story by Rick Bragg about the unusual events in Inglis, Florida. The town's mayor, Carolyn Risher, took the unprecedented step of issuing a mayoral proclamation banning Satan from the community's city limits. The restraining order declared: ''Be it known from this day forward that Satan, ruler of darkness, giver of evil, destroyer of what is good and just, is not now, nor ever again will be, a part of this town of Inglis. Satan is hereby declared powerless, no longer ruling over, nor influencing, our citizens" (www.nytimes.com). The Times article went on to say that the proclamation was printed out and placed in four hollowed out posts staked at the town’s four entrances.
     Wouldn't it be nice if it were that easy to banish Satan, or even strip him of his power? This spiritual enemy has plagued those who seek to follow God since his lies in the Garden of Eden. But John has good news for the readers of Revelation. Satan CAN BE defeated!
    John lays out the formula for us in Rev. 12:11: "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death." First, we must have been washed in the Lamb’s blood (i.e. baptized; Acts 22:16). Next, we must obey His will (the New Testament teachings). And finally, we must “be faithful unto death” (Rev. 2:10).

- David Bragg serves as one of the ministers at the Northwest Church of Christ in Greensboro, NC and is co-editor of BulletinGold. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.nwchurchofchrist.com/ or his blog: http://davidbragg.blogspot.com/

Ruined by a Lie

By David Bragg

    An unidentified driver got a surprise the night they decided to destroy Cody Lutz's giant snowman. Lutz, along with his sister and his fiancée, spent considerable time constructing the nine-foot tall snowman. Then someone thought it would be fun to mow down the gigantic structure with their vehicle. The next morning the tire tracks leading up to the Petersburg, KY residence were clear. Also clear was what the driver realized all too late the previous night: the core support for the snowman was a large tree stump (WXIX Cincinnati, Jan. 15, 2019).
    There is little doubt that the vandal believed the snowperson was just snow. After all, it looked like snow. They must of thought that it would disintegrate like snow under the more substantial weight of a powerful vehicle. Surely, they believed it was, well, snow! They discovered the truth the hard way.
    Sadly, and at a far greater cost, many in the religious world have placed their trust in a grace wrapped in a false gospel. It may look to them like biblical grace. They may have been convinced it was true grace. But someday the truth will be revealed that what they believed to be grace was wrapped in partial truths and full-fledged lies. Pray that it won’t be too late!

- David Bragg serves as one of the ministers at the Northwest Church of Christ in Greensboro, NC and is co-editor of BulletinGold. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.nwchurchofchrist.com/ or his blog: http://davidbragg.blogspot.com/

A Perspective on Sandy Hook Elementary School

By Steve Higginbotham
    On Friday, another senseless school shooting occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut.  In total, 26 people were murdered, 20 of whom were children between the ages of 6 and 7 years of age.  As the news of this horrific event was unfolding, I sat glued to my computer, wanting to know what happened. However, I soon found myself increasingly angered and sickened by what this young man perpetuated on these innocent people.
    Today is Monday, and I’ve heard enough.  I don’t want to know what kind of ammunition the murderer used.  I don’t want to know what kind of guns he used.  I don’t want to know how many times each child was shot, or the damage that was inflicted by the rounds he chose to use.  I don’t want to hear any more arguments pro or con concerning gun control.  I’ve heard enough.  Today, I am angry and saddened for the families of those who suffered loss.  But it’s those feelings of anger that I want to address, because I’m supposing that I’m not the only Christian who is experiencing those same feelings.  Does the anger I feel make me less of a Christian?  After all, Christianity is a religion of love and forgiveness.  Do I just need to be more mature as a Christian?
    Consider.  The Bible contains several “imprecatory” statements (e.g. Psalm 69:22-28; Psalm 5:10; Psalm 59; Psalm 79; Psalm 109).  The word, “Imprecatory” means “to invoke evil.” However, as you read these Psalms, keep in mind that they were written by David, a man after God’s own heart.  How could David say such things?  Well, if we realize that these statements were not written due to the desire for personal revenge, but because of the unrighteousness of David’s enemies, and their sins against God, they are easier to process.  David was zealous for God and his will.
    Likewise, consider the persecution of early Christians by the Roman empire and read the words of those who had been martyred (Revelation 6:9-10).  They cried out, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until you judge and avenge our blood…?”  Were they unforgiving and bitter because of their personal loss, or were they calling for action that would bring an end to a persecution that was attempting to thwart the righteous cause of God?
    Today, I’m angry.  But what I am most angry about is how the events that took place at Sandy Hook Elementary school, were such an offense to God and his creation.  What took place was not just an assault against children, families, and our nation, it was an attack against all that is holy and right. And for that reason, we have every right to be angry and desire justice.  In fact, when viewed from this perspective, it emboldens me to give no place to the Devil in my life.  At times, the Devil courts us, tempts us, teases us, and promises us pleasure and happiness, but when the disguise is removed, and we see him for what he really is, I choose to have no part in his deceptive dealings (Can you recall the scene from “It’s A Wonderful Life” when George Bailey shook hands with Mr. Potter after being promised great wealth and power.  It was at that moment, he could see through the disguise and realize just who he was dealing with).
    If you find yourself angry over the shootings, good, you should be angry.  Such emotions are holy.  But make sure you direct that anger toward the one who brought sin and death into this world, and allow it to cause you to cling more tightly to our only hope – Jesus, who alone can deliver us from such wickedness.
         (Of course the “evil” that I speak of in this article is based on the presupposition that this young man was not so mentally impaired that he could not discern that his actions were wrong).
- Steve Higginbotham preaches for the Karns Church of Christ in Knoxville, TN. He may be contacted through the congregation's website at http://www.karnschurch.org

The Lies of Satan

By Ron Thomas

In this world of ours, it is most disappointing to have to address some of the popular topics of the days as Satan’s lies. But, to not address Satan’s lies is to, in time, participate in them. Paul said he was not ignorant of Satan’s devices (2 Corinthians 2:11) and neither should we be ignorant. Satan is active and “he” finds willing participants in every field before “him.”

Let us be clear. Satan is a liar and the father of lies. Jesus said to those of His day, “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). By any standard of measurement, Jesus words were hard and pointed! He did not want anyone to misunderstand His point. Misunderstanding can be eliminated when the speaker gets straight to the point.

Note some of Satan’s lies that many have adopted as part of their way of thinking:

That marriage is for all people including those of the same sex. The Madison City Council ( Wisconsin ) is allowing its members to take the oath of office and express an opinion that says the state’s constitutional amendment on marriage being between a man and a woman is something that “besmirches our constitution.”

The Bible is not the word of God, but that it only contains God’s word. There is a difference. If Satan can get people to back away from the authority of Scripture, he will have been successful. He seeks to do this, among many ways, by dismissing the Scriptural record with remarks from university professors (and others) that the Bible is mistaken in some of its parts. When this is accepted, then the Bible is not something God put together, it is something man put together and it contains God’s word.

Abortion is merely a political issue. Satan would most certainly hope you buy into this. If you can’t distinguish between a moral issue and a political issue, you will vote Satan’s candidate (or party) into power. Sensible, God-fearing Christians vote issues, not parties.

Getting rich is important. The primary focus in life for young people is to go to college, get a good education, and make a lot of money for themselves in order to provide for their families (this includes their wants). In a recent report, young people ages 18—25 see getting rich to be the top goal in life ( Pew Research Center poll).

That one church is as good as another. In the religious world this is a fantastic lie. It is a lie that people of Scripture should recognize easily. They don’t because they bought into the lie. They look at people instead of God. The psalmist said that he hates every false way (Psalm 119:104). To identify a false way in to know the true way. ONLY those who are in the church that belongs to Christ will be saved (Ephesians 5:23-26).

Salvation can be attain at the point of belief without obedience. Salvation is by grace through faith. A person’s faith is a response to God’s loving Savior. Jesus said, He that believes and is baptized shall be saved; he that does not believe is condemned (Mark 16:16; John 3:5; Acts 2:38).

“Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God" (John 8:47).

- Ron Thomas serves as preacher and an elder for the Highway church of Christ, Sullivan, IL He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.highwaycofc.com