Are You Reading?

Are You Reading?

      For more than fifty years, brother V. E. Howard has asked repeatedly in his radio sermons, “Are you listening?” I would like to rephrase that question slightly and ask similarly, “Are you reading?” How many of you have ever read the Bible through from cover to cover? How often do you read the Bible? Do you bring your Bible to class with you on Sundays and Wednesday nights? Have you noticed how few have their Bibles in these classes? If you have ever taught such a class and have made an effort to get the students in your class to bring their Bibles, you know how difficult this task is. I wonder how many of us in the church today are reading our Bibles outside of the church buildings. I wonder how many of us read the Bible even when we prepare for class and how much we rely on supplemental material instead of the Bible even when we teach. I want to ask you, “Are you reading (the Bible)?”
   The Bible must be read diligently by every member of the church. “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15). Nothing threatens the church today more than Bible ignorance! When we begin to rely on the writings of men (e.g. commentaries, workbooks, teacher’s guides, and other books) more than on the Book of God, we can easily be led astray. We need to be like the Bereans “in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so” (Acts 17:11). Let us look at four reasons why we should read the Bible diligently.
   1) It is our Owner’s Manual. Every product comes with an owner’s manual which tells how the product is to be used. God made man. God breathed into man and he became a living soul (Gen. 2:7). God inspired (breathed into) a book, the Bible, which “is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). When we violate our owner’s manual (1 John 3:4), we will cause problems for ourselves (Gal. 6:7-8) and will ultimately be destroyed (Rom. 6:23).
   2) The Bible satisfies our hunger and provides for our spiritual health. Jesus stated, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Mat. 4:4). A person who gives attention to food for the body and neglects his soul has deprived himself of that which is most important. When a person is born again (John 3:5), he has a natural hunger for spiritual food (1 Pet. 2:2). The Bible promised that this natural hunger will be satisfied (Mat. 5:6). As Irving Jensen stated, “Hunger is a sign of health. When we neglect the Bible, it is because we are not hungry for the things of God. Not being hungry, we cannot, therefore, be healthy, spiritually” (Enjoy Your Bible).
   3) The Bible is needed because of our responsibility to teach. Parents are supposed to teach their children about God and His Word (Eph. 6:4; Deu. 6:7). We cannot teach that which we do not know.      Further, the faithful have the responsibility of teaching others “who shall be able to teach others also”  (2 Tim. 2:2). In addition, we are responsible for teaching the lost what they must do to be saved (Mat. 28:19-20). To teach we must study the Bible ourselves (2 Tim. 2:15).
   4) The Bible is the Book by which we will be judged. We know in advance the standard of our judgment (John 12:48). Our eternal destiny will be determined by whether or not we have lived by that standard (2 Cor. 5:10). We can prepare ourselves for judgment by reading the Bible and following its instructions.
   The Bible is important to every child of God, “his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night” (Psa. 1:2). The psalmist realized the importance of God’s Word. He wrote:  O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day. Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.… How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way (Psa. 119:97-104).

                                                           Are you reading?

Lester Kamp – Aurora Colorado

   The above article was written by a faithful brother in Christ, a proclaimer of the gospel and a dear friend of mine. In this article, he is asking a question of utmost importance. Do we fail to realize or remember that the Bible is one of the great “gifts” God has given to man? Yes, Christ, His only begotten Son is truly a great gift, and His unselfishness in giving Himself to die on the cross is a great gift as well. But without the Bible, how would we know?   How could we obey God? The Bible contains the most important message in the world.    Read it. Obey it. Your soul’s eternity depends on it.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

A Matter Of The Heart

A Matter Of The Heart

     The heart is an important organ. It propels the blood in the body throughout the various organs and limbs to enable a body to carry out the many functions of life. Without the heart, or if the heart ceases its beating, life soon is over. One of the first ‘signs of life’ is that of a beating heart. Oh the joy of the newly expectant parents to hear their unborn child’s heartbeat for the first time.   It is equally important to take care of that heart as we live and continue to age. Many are forced to take medication (especially in advanced age) as the heart begins to fail or become less efficient.  
   So important is the heart, that man for so long thought that the emotions came from it. I suppose this is why when some folks comment and say things like: “such and such is close to my heart”, or “my heart goes out to them”, they most often place their hand on the left side of the chest. Additionally, when a person becomes amorous of another, they might purchase a card to express their feelings. Sometimes, especially during “Valentines Day”, these have a❤️(heart) on them. This expresses the “feeling” that exists in the mind (heart).   Also, I am quite certain that “feelings” within the “blood-pump” are a sign that something may be amiss.   When folks feel pain in or around the blood pump, a doctor should be quickly consulted.
   The phrase “the heart” is found nine times in the Gospels and thirteen times in the New Testament. In every occurrence, except one, the “mind” is that which is being referenced. The only exception is that found in Matthew 12:40 in which the Lord provided a sign for the evil minded scribes and Pharisees who, having observed many signs, yet asked for another. Jesus said: For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.  While they may have understood that “the heart of the earth” meant the grave, and they may have recalled that Jonah came forth from the belly of the whale, they failed to realize that when Jesus came forth from the grave to die no more, this was proof positive that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of Almighty God.
    But let’s get back to the other twenty-one references of “the heart” found from Matthew through first Peter. In addition to this, the phrase “thy heart” is found three times in the Gospels and two times in the New Testament. One of these is in Acts 8. In the 19th verse, Simon made an offer to purchase the power of “laying on of hands” as he had observed the apostles doing.   He no doubt considered his potential financial gain, considering he had previously been in the business of sorcery, “giving out that himself was some great one” (Acts 8:9). From Acts 8:19-20 we find that a) Simon “thought” he could buy the power with money, and b), his “heart” was not right with God.
   Everyone knows that “thoughts” come from the mind. As Peter instructed Simon in Acts 8:22, we see that the Bible “heart” is the mind - Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.  We might also point out that Ananias and Sapphira of Acts 5, also had a “heart” problem.   After Barnabas sold land and laid the money at the apostles feet in Acts 4, they too sold land. However, Ananias and Sapphira conspired to lie, keep part pf the monies, and indicate they were giving all their proceeds from the sale to the work of the church.   Notice the Words of Peter in Acts 5:4, as Ananias’ deception was exposed - Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. They had determined in their minds to lie. It cost them both their lives and souls. In both examples above, we see disobedience from “the heart”, which is the mind.
   Now, let’s examine some obedience from the heart. In Acts chapter 8, we find Philip having been instructed by an angel of the Lord, to go unto Gaza. As he arrived, an eunuch, the treasurer of a queen, having been to Jerusalem to worship was returning, and reading Isaiah as he rode in his chariot. Philip asks if he understands what he’s reading.   The eunuch asks Philip to guide him, and Philip begins at that point in the sacred scripture and “preached unto him Jesus”. The eunuch absorbed the instruction of Philip in his mind. When they approached some water, he asked “what doth hinder me to be baptized?” In Acts 8:37, we see that “in his heart” (his mind) he believed, and with his mouth he confessed Christ as Son of God.
   Romans 10:10 states exactly the same thing. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.  But notice that confession is “unto” Salvation. This means one is not yet saved when they “believe it in their heart”.   Yet Salvation is still a matter of the heart per Romans 6:17. Those who were previously servants of sin had now “obeyed from the heart”. What had they obeyed? “That form of doctrine which was delivered you”.   What was that form? It is the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. Read Romans 6:3-5 where this is taught in the N.T.   It is baptism “into His death” for remission of past sins, burial (immersion) in water, and being raised (resurrected) to walk in newness of life. This “newness of life” is also supported by 2Corinthians 5:17.
   So, how is Salvation a matter of the heart (mind)? That’s easy to answer. 1) One hears or reads (takes in the information of Christ in the mind) 2) Does in the body what God’s Word Commands. 3) Then living as the Lord directs our “hearts” (minds) through His Word as we read in 2Thessalonians 3:5 - And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.  Apply your heart (mind) to learning God’s Word, then do it. This is how Salvation is a matter of the heart.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

In The Right Order

In The Right Order

     That modern society has problems is not something open for debate. All one needs to do is pick up a newspaper, turn on the T.V., or simply sit down somewhere and observe folks. If we have lived any time at all and have memories of the “good ole’ days”, we are acutely aware of the changes between the then, and now. When things seem to be “out of whack”, some people are prone to say the individuals involved “got the cart before the horse”.
   Consider the age-old institution of marriage. I call it that because it was God who ordained marriage. After God created man, He caused a deep sleep to come upon Adam, and God took one of Adam’s ribs and made him a “help meet” for him. In Genesis 2:23, Adam made this declaration about the woman God ‘gave’ him. This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.He immediately followed up in verse 24, saying: Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.  Notice that it is after sin was committed in the Garden and after man’s expulsion from it that we see from chapter four: And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived, and bare Cain, and said, I have gotten a man from the LORD.  I’m sure you noticed, in God’s account here, the order is marriage before sex.
   Before anyone says: “But we live in different times”, let me point out God’s Law on this in Hebrews 13:4, which clearly states God’s position for all times. The Spirit had the penman write: Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.  Those who “cohabitate” (live together as man and wife outside of marriage) are in danger of Hell fire. To live in such a way is against Gods’ Law, therefore it is sin, and separates one from God. Also, marrying after “living together” doesn’t “erase the sin. One MUST repent of sin.   Get things in the right order.
   Think about it, we cannot “grow up” before we are born. We don’t walk before we crawl. We don’t graduate High School before attending and presumably ‘passing’ grade school. We don’t become mature adults before enduring adolescence. Also, we cannot expect to retire before we start working. I’m sure if we give it a little thought, we all can come up with additional examples from many aspects of our lives on this earth.
   But this doesn’t only apply to marriage, or things in the physical realm. The denominations are leading countless millions to the condemnation of their souls. The many who teach Salvation before baptism into Christ are doing that very thing. How do these folks deal with Acts 22:16? Ananias was sent by God to tell Saul (Paul): And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. One MUST be baptized to have sins washed away. Saul had been in Damascus, blind and praying for three days per (Acts 9:9-11), and was not yet “saved”. Sins aren’t remitted until one is baptized into Christ.
     Baptism is a burial. One must die to the love and practice of sin, be buried in the watery grave of baptism, and be raised to walk in newness of life.   Colossians 2:12-13 states it this way: Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. 13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;  The operation of God, is when, in baptism, God “cuts away” all “past sins”, and makes the one who was previously “dead in sin”, now alive in Christ.
   Sadly, even some who have been baptized into Christ, have somehow been deluded into thinking that upon being baptized into Christ, “ALL OF THEIR SINS” have been taken away. No, only their PAST SINS are washed away in baptism into Christ. God has a Command and an order to follow when the child of God sins. After spiritual birth, man still sins. This is supported by Romans 3:3 and 1John 1:8. Do they have to be baptized again? No! One is only born once. John 3:3-5, Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus shows this applies physically, as well as spiritually. So, what is the “order” when a Christian sins and becomes an ERRING Christian? Is it to simply pray?   No! Per Acts 8:22, one MUST REPENT before praying for forgiveness. In the previous verse, the Holy Spirit had Peter tell Simon (the former sorcerer), that his “heart is not right in the sight of God   ” because of his sin of trying to purchase the “power” that had been given only to the apostles. Simon, as an erring child of God was told: Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.  He had to apply God’s plan in the right order for him, the erring Christian to once again be in a proper covenant relationship with God.
   Why will you not apply God’s plan for Salvation in the right order and seek the Salvation He offers through His Son, Jesus Christ? That plan and order is: 1) Hear (the gospel) – Romans 10:17. 2) Believe Christ is God’s Son – John 8:24. 3) Repent of past sins – Luke 13: 3. 4) Confess before men that Christ is God’s Son – Romans 10:9-10. 5) Be baptized into Christ – Romans 6:3-4. 6) Remain faithful until death – Revelation 2:10b. God’s plan followed in His order is the only way one can be saved.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

What Shall It Be?

What Shall It Be?

     Our title is the question of life. As rational thinking humans, we are faced with making choices. This begins even in childhood as our parents ask us to choose which clothes we want to wear, what food we want for supper, or the many other options that are presented in our youth. Our parents also must make decisions that affect us as well as each other. Some of these are where to live, what kind of work to do to provide for the family, or what kind of example to set before each other and the kids.
   However, the time comes when all must make decisions specifically for themselves when it comes to where to live, where to work, the choice of a mate, and yes, what kind of person you will be in society. Will you be a benefit to your family? Will you choose well and become successful in your vocation? In so doing, will you be respected as an honest employee, boss, or person?   We cannot go through life allowing others to make our choices or blame others when the choices we make prove to be unwise.  
   This is never more true than when it comes to the choice all must make about their soul.   When we are brought into this world, we are blessed to be provided with a soul, a living spirit, in the image of God. True, as infants and small children, we live in innocence and depend on our parents to guide us. But what about when we are grown? Can we continue to rely on choices others make for us?   What would God have us know? What does the Bible have to say about this aspect of life?
   We learn from Psalm 119:109 the Spirit gave the psalmist Words to write to show each has responsibility for his/her own soul. This passage also shows how the psalmist used to protect his soul. He wrote: “My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law.” This is given that all might understand that their eternal destiny is up to them. However, God will not save a soul if that soul refuses His plan. In Psalm 73:24 we read: “Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.” – This is only “if” the psalmist obeys God’s counsel.
   Those who obey God’s counsel, under whatever dispensation and Law of God they lived and died, will benefit. They will hear the Words that Jesus spoke in the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:21 when He said: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant:”.   On the other hand, those who refuse or reject the inspired advice and guidance God has provided in His Word cannot expect a pleasant eternity. 2Thessalonians 1:8-9 presents a vivid picture of the of the outcome of those who refuse, reject, or even “partially” obey God’s Word. It reads: “In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;”.
   Know also per Romans 2:11, that God is not a ‘respecter of persons. If a person choses to live contrary to God’s divine instructions, his/her soul is in jeopardy. Galatians 6:7 warns “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Therefore, the important question of Pilate from Matthew 27:22a is applicable to all. He asked: What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? We all know how the Jews to whom Pilate asked this question responded. They said “Let him be crucified.” This is also the question which prompted a song in most hymnals, yet is often sung without giving thought to an honest answer. The lyrics of the song are listed below.

What Shall It Be?

(1)
What will you do with Jesus? The question comes to you!
And you must give an answer, For something you must do.
(2)
What will you do with Jesus? It comes by night and day;
With pierced hands uplifted, He waits – what will you say?
(3)
What will you do with Jesus? He’s knocking at the door!
Refuse Him, soul no longer, Lest He should plead no more.
(chorus)
What Shall it be? What shall it be? What shall your answer be?
What will you do with Jesus? O what shall your answer be?

   Another song from the hymnals, taken from the same scripture, asks another question. That song is entitled: “What Will You Do With Jesus?”. The song ends with the question: “What shall He do with me?”. That, my friend, depends on what you do with Him while you live your life on earth. Isn’t it time you stopped and considered your eternity in light of what God has stated in His New Testament Word? It is only in this life that you have opportunity to secure a home in heaven. It’s true we can’t earn it, but we can spurn it. If we reject God’s plan, we reject the reward. We are also accepting the penalty He has laid out for the disobedient and unfaithful in His Word. What Shall It Be?   It’s entirely up to you. Decide and obey the gospel today, not man’s doctrine. Then remain faithful until death. The reward is worth it.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

A Change Of Status

A Change of Status

     Life is full of changes. In fact, we change dramatically from conception till we are born. Then, various changes of status take place. As we grow, we continue to change statuses. If we live a long life, we change from “the baby” to the young child, to an adolescent, to adult, and to elderly. Perhaps there are other changes of status that occur as we choose a mate, have children of our own, pursue our various career paths, or many other possibilities. We learn from Ecclesiastes 3:1, there is “a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:” Verses 2-8 cover many of the circumstances on this earth that can produce changes of status.
   However, none of these from birth to death, nor any changes of status contained therein mean anything if a particular change of position does not take place. Birth is important as it places us on earth. Death is equally important because our spiritual status at that point, will not change for eternity. What is more important than either of these is what we do with whatever time we have in-between. Christ, during His earthly ministry, addressed this in Matthew 16:26 when He pointed out there is no profit in living life and losing one’s soul. In that same passage, He also questioned what a man would give in exchange for his soul.
   Sadly, many live their lives either unconcerned about eternity, or badly informed as to how their spiritual status has been altered during their time on earth. Few seem to realize that as an infant or a small child, one is in a “safe” relationship with God. They don’t yet know sin. When one attains the “age of accountability”, Genesis 8:21b, (when they truly understand “right and wrong”), they sin, (Romans 3:23) and become “lost”. They remain in such a state unless or until they obey the gospel in accordance with God’s New Testament Word. Only upon obedience to the gospel, does one enter a “saved” relationship with God.
   Unfortunately, many continue through life unaware of the need to make a change in their lives because of a lack of teaching, or improper teaching. Somewhere in time, man came with the ungodly idea that all one must do for Salvation is to believe (ask Jesus into their heart). There are two immediate problems with this. Perhaps if one would consult the New Testament, they would discover that James 2:19 tells us “the devils also believe and tremble”. Are they ready to concede that “the devils”, those diametrically opposed to God, have hope of Salvation? I don’t think so! Folks might also be surprised to learn that James 2:24 is the only place “faith only” is found in the entirety of the Bible, and there it is preceded by “not by”.
   Therefore, something must be done by an individual to change their status with God. This is very apparent when, in Acts 3:19, as Peter spoke to the people of Israel on Solomon’s porch after the lame beggar was healed, the Spirit had Peter say: “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;”. Repentance is indeed a change that will result in a change in status. The Greek Word for repent in this verse is “metanoeō”, and means to change one's mind and purpose, as the result of knowledge.  This knowledge is to come from the Word of God. This is supposed to result in a change of status.
   However, this doesn’t mean that every change of status that man makes is a positive one. Often the choices one makes is dependent on one’s motivation. For example, Demas, per Colossians 4:14, (approx. A.D. 64) was working in the kingdom alongside Luke the Physician, then we again read of him in Philemon vs 24, (again approx. A.D. 64) as a fellow laborer of the apostle Paul. It seems the motivation for his status at that point was to serve God and be pleasing to Him. But something went terribly wrong. According to 2Timothy 4:10 (approx. A.D. 65), Demas had forsaken Paul and the Lord. The motivation for his choice for this is given by inspiration. We are told he “loved this present world and is departed unto Thessalonica”. We have no other mention of Demas in God’s Word.
   Even if Demas did not repent and be restored, he went through several changes of status. (1) He was born, so he was once in a “safe” relationship with God. (2) Then, as he grew up, he sinned, and his status changed to a “lost” condition with God. (3) At some point, he heard and obeyed the truth and entered a “saved” relationship with God. (4) Then, in falling from grace in forsaking the Lord, and loving this present world, his status again changed to that of a “lost soul”. Don’t let this happen to you.
   Rather, seek to know the truth and allow your status to change as truth directs. Let your love of God according to truth be the motivation for your change of status. Your eternal destination depends on your spiritual status when your life is completed on this earth. We are taught in 2Corinthians 7:10, “For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.” Why not choose God and His Word, and obey the gospel to change your status before it is everlastingly too late?

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

If There Are Only A Few

If There Are Only A Few

     Today, and for many years, our society has been drawn to more, better, or bigger. This is evident in homes, where social pressure is felt by some to have a bigger home to maintain a certain amount of prestige. This can also be apparent when folks strive to have the newest, finest or latest in a product or fashion to ‘keep up with the Joneses. Over time, our society has developed the idea that “few” is a negative thing for the most part. Of course, there are areas in life in which few can be desired. I’m sure we all hope to have few, if any diseases. The same can be said for cavities or a plethora of other things. However, all these things, whether numerous or few, are temporal, and eventually will all perish (2Peter 3:11-12)
   Unfortunately, religious people seem to look on “few” with disdain. Most congregations seem to be focused on expanding their memberships and enlarging their facilities to accommodate even more people. Usually, the larger the group, the more funds are gathered. These are often used to finance the multiple ‘ministries’, or to promote the lavish lifestyle of that church’s leaders. Perhaps this is why many religious organizations seek to be popular. Popularity often equals greater attendance, which promotes more folks giving to the cause, which in turn lines the pockets of the leaders. Few? This would wreck their objective.
   However, “few” is a Bible concept. In Matthew 7:13, as Jesus neared the end of the Sermon on the Mount, He directed His believers to enter in at the strait gate. He also warned that the other way, the wide, broad way leads to destruction, and there were many who traveled that way. In Matthew 7:14, Jesus cautioned His audience that the way which leads to life is not an easy one. Throughout the entirety of the Sermon on the Mount, and throughout His ministry, Jesus taught and preached about the kingdom, the church, for which He would give His life. In the final part of the fourteenth verse, Jesus made it perfectly clear that “few there be that find it”.  
   Jesus even used “few” in other aspects of His ministry. We find as He continued His ministry, as Christ went about all the cities and villages, He taught and preached the gospel of the kingdom. Matthew 9:35 also tells us He healed “every sickness and every disease among the people.” Then, as He looked upon the masses, His compassion was stirred within Him as they fainted, were scattered abroad, and were as sheep that were without a shepherd. In Matthew 9:37, upon making this observation, He spoke to His disciples and said: “The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;”.
   Still later, in Matthew chapter 15, Christ again went up to a mountain, and sat down. The multitudes came unto Him and the lame, the blind, the dumb, those that were maimed, and many others were brought to Jesus and He healed them. As a result, the multitude “glorified the God of Israel”. Then the narrative reveals that these folks had been with the Lord for three days. Jesus would “not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way” (Matthew 15:32) Therefore, some action needed to be taken. When asked how much “bread” was readily available, the disciples said “Seven, and a few little fishes.”. Then, Jesus uses “few” in a positive way. He commanded the people to sit on the ground. Christ then took the loaves and the few fishes, gave thanks, break them, and gave them to His disciples, (few in number in comparison to the multitude), and they distributed to the multitude (four thousand, beside women and children.
   God has often used few to accomplish much. In Judges 7, there were thirty-two thousand fighting men gathered with Gideon to march against the Midianites. God, knowing the mind of man, and that a victory often causes man to vaunt himself, pared down that army by allowing all who were fearful and afraid to depart early from mount Gilead- (Judges 7:3). Twenty-two thousand departed and this left ten thousand. God trimmed this number down by “trying them”. As they were brought to the water, all who put their hand to his mouth and lapped water were separated from all who bowed upon their knees and drank. This pared the number to three hundred men, few in comparison to all who began with Gideon. With these few soldiers, carefully following the direction of their leader, standing strong. (Judges 7:21-“And they stood every man in his place”), doing as God Commanded and proclaiming “The sword of the Lord and Gideon”, a nation was subdued, and victory procured for Israel, the people of God.
   Today, when the church of the Lord is steadfast, “every man standing in his place”, as directed by the New Testament Word of God, there are often “few”. To many, this is an up-hill battle, sometimes causing folk become discouraged and quit, or abandon a small work to “join” a larger and more popular group. We mustn’t give up or settle for less than giving our best for the Master.   Perhaps it will help the “few” to remember the Words of 1Corinthians 15:57-58 - “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. ⁵⁸ Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” Know that God plus one is a majority. There is much work to do and yes, the laborers are still few. The fields are still white unto harvest and many souls are still lost. Even the “few” can teach God’s soul-saving gospel.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Spiritual Runts?

Spiritual Runts?

    From the 1930’s through the mid1980’s, and perhaps even later, a memorable Charles Atlas magazine ad ran in which a bully kicked sand on the 97-pound weakling. You may remember it. The advertisement directed folks’ attention to a “bodybuilding” plan called Power Isotronics. After participating in the plan, eating right, and after a little time had passed, the former weakling shows up at the beach again and gives the bully a dose of his own medicine. If you are interested, this plan is still available at Amazon for forty-two dollars. This plan is outlined in a paperback book and is designed to enhance your overall health, strength and lifestyle. Per the fly leaf for the book,  Charles Atlas has inspired millions of young men around the world to be the best they could be. I wonder how many have bought this book over the years and have not utilized its instruction or principles?
    NOW THE POINT – God has provided a Book. It lays out the ONE AND ONLY WAY one can become God’s child, how one is to live life, and how to grow spiritually and be pleasing to Him.   Those who access this book of books, the Bible, follow its rightly divided instruction, and abide by the directions God has given, will not suffer “spiritual malnutrition”. Neither will they be spiritual weaklings or “runts”. Was not Timothy told what was necessary for him to be a good minister in 1Timothy 4:6? He was required to “put the brethren in remembrance” of the things the Spirit had Paul write to his young protégé. But how was Timothy able to accomplish this?We clearly see that he had to be “nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine”. But, read on. The very next verse shows that spiritual exercise is also required. And so none would be misled, the Spirit, through Paul informs that bodily exercise that is of little profit in that it only lasts in this life, but “godliness is profitable in all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.”(1Timothy 4:8). A Christian’s primary goal should be to prepare for what is after this life.
     Consider the first six verses of James chapter five. The rich of this world, (who base their prosperity on the world’s standard), are warned of the misery that shall come upon them. Keep in mind that this, and all other epistles were written either to Christians or congregations of the Lord’s church. Therefore, these were “children of God” who were informed that their ill-gotten wealth was corrupted, their “gold and silver cankered”, and these things would testify against them. It is evident to me that these folks had allowed themselves to be improperly nourished as is stated in verse five. – “Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter.” They had allowed themselves to become spiritual runts because they had not sought the right “food and exercise”, and had not grown properly spiritually.
    WHAT DOES IT TAKE? – Just as in the case of physical health, one must commit themselves to eating right, exercise, adequate rest, and avoidance of stress. The same formula applies to our “inner man”. Ephesians 5:29 reminds us that we don’t hate our own flesh, but rather “nourisheth and cherisheth it”. Is not our inner man (soul) more important than our outer man? The spiritual nourishment that promotes growth is supplied by God’s Word. This is certain from passages like1Peter 3:18, where those brethren (and we) are told to “grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ ”. According to Hebrews 5:14, those who are diligent in their effort to learn and become able to digest the meat of the Word, are those, “who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” As for rest, in Hebrews 4:3, the Jews that had been converted were assured, “For we which have believed do enter into rest ”. (The “have believed”, per Mark 16:16 includes being baptized into Christ and remaining faithful). And, what could be less stressful than knowing you are doing as God directs in His Word?
      Why do ‘God’s people’ sometimes become spiritual runts? That is a problem that the church has faced since not long after its establishment. As can be seen from Acts 2:41-46, those that gladly received the Word were baptized into Christ, and were ‘spiritually born’. They “continued daily in the apostles doctrine” (that which the Holy Spirit gave them to teach). They “continued daily with one accord in the temple” (were of the same mind – learning and following the same thing). In Acts 17:11, those of Berea were commended, in that they “searched the Scriptures daily” to see if the things being taught were so. In short, much of the early church was spiritually nourished (through the Word), and exercised themselves to godliness (again, through the Word), and were rewarded by having the “peaceable fruit of righteousness” to those who allowed themselves to be chastised (once again, through the Word) - (Hebrews 12:11)
   Contrast these above with those brethren, such as the church of Laodicea, who had become lackadaisical (Revelation 3:14-17), and the church in Ephesus who “left their first love” – (Revelation 2:4-5). They like many Christians today, fail to read, study, meditate on, and live the rightly divided Word of God and are become “spiritual runts”. One who is a spiritual runt, has not grown and cannot faithfully serve God. I wonder how many Christians have God’s Book and fail to follow its instruction and principles? No wonder there are spiritual runts. Are You one? Think about it!

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Faith is a Condition of Salvation

Faith is a Condition of Salvation

    The text of Mark 16:15-16 begins, “He that believeth.” Of this believer, our Lord concludes, “shall be saved.” The essential nature of belief for salvation is obvious in the closing words of the verse, “but he that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark 16:16). One of the conditions upon which salvation depends, according to this verse, is faith (belief).
   This is a point upon which almost all are agreed throughout the religious world. The New Testament makes it clear that God requires faith, on the part of the sinner, for his salvation. For example, we are told, “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Hebrews 11:6).
   The entire chapter of Hebrews 11 shows the important role of faith in the lives of those pleasing to God, even in the days of the Old Testament. However, the faith described in that chapter is not faith alone—it is faith that responds in obedience to God. Even in verse six we have action inferred by the references to coming to God and seeking Him. It is that kind of faith (active, obedient) that justifies (Romans 5:1). Bear in mind that this faith comes from hearing God’s Word (10:17). As noted earlier, in the verse preceding our text, Jesus commissioned the preaching of the Gospel (Mark 16:15). That is, the God-given way for people to hear the Gospel. “For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe” (1 Corinthians 1:21).
   We will soon note in Mark 16:16, faith is not the only condition of salvation according to the Gospel. James’ words are emphatic on the connection between faith and action. “Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only” (James 2:24). This, by the way, is the only Biblical reference to faith only. It is significant that James tells us that justification (another word for salvation) is not by faith only in spite of the very popular denominational teaching to the contrary.
   James then concludes his discussion of faith and works with these words: “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also” (2:26). It could not be any clearer! The faith that saves involves more than mental assent—faith must act to save. There are even New Testament examples of some who believed, but were not saved. Consider those among the chief rulers: “Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God” (John 12:42-43).
   Consider the devils (demons— ASV): “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble” (James 2:19). Felix believed and “trembled” at the preaching of Paul (Acts 24:25). King Agrippa also believed, according to Paul’s own appraisal, “I know that thou believest” (26:27). It is, therefore, clear that man is not and cannot be saved by faith alone; nevertheless, faith is absolutely essential to salvation. Obedience is also necessary for salvation. Referring to Jesus, the writer of Hebrews notes, “and having been made perfect, he became unto all them that obey him the author of eternal salvation” (Hebrews 5:9—ASV).
   According to this, Jesus is the “author of eternal salvation” to “all them that obey him.” Add to this the statement of Peter, “Seeing ye have purified your souls in your obedience to the truth unto unfeigned love of the brethren, love one another from the heart fervently” (1 Peter 1:22—ASV). Souls are purified (i.e. cleansed, forgiven of sins, etc.) by “obedience to the truth.” According to the context of Mark 16:16, that which is to be believed is the preaching of the Gospel of Christ. The historical facts of the Gospel are the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). Paul wrote that the resurrection was the powerful proof that Jesus was the Son of God: “And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead” (Romans 1:4). Hence, Jesus insisted, “I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins” (John 8:24). Our sins separate us from God (Isaiah 59:1-2) and thereby cause us to be in need of salvation. If sin remains unforgiven in our lives, we will be lost! Therefore, part of the Gospel which must be believed to be saved is that Jesus is God’s Son. Recall that when Philip had preached Jesus to the Eunuch on the road between Jerusalem and Gaza and when the eunuch desired baptism, Philip said, “If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest” (Acts 8:37). The Ethiopian then properly confessed his faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God (cf. Matthew 10:32), and was baptized. Paul commented on faith and confession in Romans 10. He wrote, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation” (10:9-10).

      Infants and Others Exempt from the Requirements of This Verse

     The necessity of belief to be saved rules out infants and the mentally deficient. Babies cannot believe nor can those who lack the mental capabilities to learn and make rational decisions for themselves. These are not candidates for baptism since they are incapable of belief which is prerequisite to baptism.
     Indeed, these individuals are not in need of salvation for they are safe. The Bible refutes the claim of Calvinism of “inherited total depravity”—that babies are born sinners of the worst sort! Children are born innocent and those who do not mentally progress to the point of making rational decisions based on information given remain in that innocent condition. We are told that we are responsible for our own sins, and not for the sins of our ancestors: “The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him” (Ezekiel 18:20).
   Jesus further told us that to be saved, we must become like little children: “And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3). So, we must conclude that children should not be baptized because they cannot be believers, and that children are not in need of salvation until they become sinners.

Lester Kamp – Denver, CO

How Do You Like Me Now?

How Do You Like Me Now?

       Our title is often a rhetorical question used to express satisfaction with one's own accomplishments, especially after facing skepticism or criticism, or even to brag about success. It does sound boastful, but sometimes one might also use this phrase as they seek validation after achieving a certain level of success in the face of other folk’s doubt. The meaning of the phrase can vary depending on the attitude of the individual and the context, but the core idea is to highlight a personal achievement in the face of previous opposition or underestimation. All, whether they realize or admit it, desire to be liked or appreciated. Often the road to success is filled with others expressing doubt in, or criticizing what you do.
    Occasionally, one receives instruction for their own good and fails to realize that the person that delivers the message is really a friend. They are doing you a favor. Would we be appreciative of one who would not tell us how we could improve if the information is sound?   When they do tell us what will help us be as we should, do we listen?   Do we fail to heed, even when they tell us how it will benefit us? Jesus, in John 8:32, told some folks which already “believed on Him”, things they needed to hear as well as what good it would bring them. He said: “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
   How did His listeners react? Read the remainder of that discourse, and it becomes obvious from the context that the Lord was telling them they needed to change. They had allowed sin to envelop them and were in bondage to sin. They were to seek the kingdom of God (the church for which Christ died). After their indignant response, Christ could have asked the question the Spirit had Paul write in Gal. 4:16, to the congregations of the Lord’s church in Galatia.  Both Christ and Paul provided their audience the much-needed information whereby they could improve. Paul asked: Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? 
   As the Spirit had Paul pen the first epistle to the church in Corinth, He, through inspiration, had Paul state a plethora of things the congregation needed to address. A list of what some of them had been or what they had once participated in is found in 1Cor. 6:9-10. However, we see from the verse that follows, that a change had occurred upon hearing, believing and obeying the gospel by baptism into Christ. This was a change that was much needed. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.(1Cor 6:11) They had previously been friends with the world. 
     In 2Cor. 6:17-18, these same brethren were cautioned against once again becoming friends of and acting like the world. They were told: Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, ¹⁸ And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.  In Jas. 4:4, the ‘scattered brethren’ to whom the Spirit had James write were also warned against having an affinity with the world. Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. Rather, as 2Cor. 5:17 shows, a “change” was to have occurred within them when they obeyed the gospel and as they continued to follow the New Testament Word of God. Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.  This transformation is to be noticeable, and is to be a continual period of growth as long as we live on the earth.
       But as we see from1Pet. 4:4, this is not always easy. Those ‘of the world’ might not “like you now”. Some of our family, friends, and former acquaintances won’t readily understand the change. It may cause some to treat us differently. We won’t remain the same as we “once were” and it won’t set well with everyone. Our focus won’t be on the same things it once was, nor on what those of the world focus. Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:  The ones opposed to us, will often voice their displeasure at our change. This is only a part of the difficulties the faithful Christian is likely to face. 2Tim. 3:12 tells us: Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 
      However, we are not to be discouraged. In 1Thess. 4:1, the Spirit had Paul admonish the brethren in Thessalonica. We also should take comfort from these Words. Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.  When we think about it, the only one of whom we should ask: “How do you like me now?” is the Lord. Isn’t it He whom we are trying to please? We read this in Gal. 1:10 - For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
      Be the servant of Christ and strive to be pleasing to God in accordance with His Word. This is the most important thing in this life.  

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

What Are You Thinking

What Are You Thinking?

   If anyone answers the above question and says “nothing”, do not believe it. According to a 2020 study, people have more than 6,000 thoughts a day. Here’s the math, based on their estimate: Say you get 8 hours of sleep each night. You are awake for 16 hours each day and have exactly 6.5 thoughts per minute. (6.5 x 60 x 16 = 6,240 thoughts). Of course, this is only one study. In 2005, the National Science Foundation published an article regarding research about human thoughts per day. The average person has about 12,000 to 60,000 thoughts per day. Of those, 95% are exactly the same repetitive thoughts as the day before and about 80% are negative. There are several other studies on this.
   As can be clearly seen, there are a ‘lot of thoughts’, on how much one thinks in a day. Much of this seems to be based on opinion, and the results derived often depend on the parameters of the various studies and the subjects of those studies. For instance, a group of grade school students would have different thoughts than their older high school age brothers and sisters. At the same time, a group of mature adults will think about different things than either of these aforementioned groups.
   Additionally, a person’s surroundings, prior teaching, present teaching, attitude, and a plethora of other things have influence on what thoughts they have. As a result, thoughts may change over time. There have been many smart people who have provided quotes about thinking. One of my favorites comes from Henry Ford. He said: “Thinking is the hardest work there is, which is probably the reason why so few engage in it.” Thomas Edison, the great inventor of many things spent time thinking alone. His quote reflects this sentiment. He said: “The best thinking has been done in solitude. The worst has been done in turmoil.” As can be seen, thinking is often occurring. Therefore it is important that we think properly.
   God also addressed this in His Word. In Proverbs, the Spirit directed the wise man Solomon to warn against participating in things with those who are thinking evil and deceitful thoughts. Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats: 7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.(Prov. 23:6-7). The Spirit also gave Words for king David, the father of Solomon to pen on this subject. In Psa. 10:3-4 we read, For the wicked boasteth of his heart's desire, and blesseth the covetous, whom the LORD abhorreth.4 The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts. 
   Perhaps this is why, in Isa. 55:7-9, God had this faithful prophet write and admonish Israel. He penned: “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. 8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” God wants man’s thought to be proper. They can only be so if one thinks on, and does the things in God’s rightly divided Word.
    In Rom. 12:3, in the context of spiritual gifts, the Spirit had Paul write to these brethren that they keep their thoughts in line. None of them were to “think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, . . . ”.   Again, all are to think in full accordance with God’s Word. Rom. 10:17 tells us that faith comes from the Word of God. Then, as we see in Jas. 1:5-6, the brother that lacks wisdom is to ask God in faith and do so without wavering. The ones who waver are as unsteady as the waves of the sea. In verse 7, one that asks without faith, is not to “think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.”  
    If our thoughts remain in accordance with God’s Word, we will realize just how much we don’t know just as the brethren in Corinth were told in 1Cor. 8:2, and will study to know more. And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.  The more we study, the better we can think. This is very similar to what the Spirit had the apostle Paul write the brethren in Gal. 6:3. He told them one of the many ways a person can be misled from within his own mind. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.  God doesn’t want anyone to be deceived. He wants all to know what to do to be saved and how to keep their thinking strait.
   Rather than us being deceived, Phil. 4:8 provides us with a number of things with which to occupy our minds. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.  What are you thinking? Why not think wholesome thoughts based on, and in full accordance with God’s Word? If you do so, you can’t go wrong.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ