How To Get "It" Done

How To Get “It” Done

     There is much to do during the course of a life. There is so much to do, one must prioritize. Then, once we choose what is of most importance to us, we must get started so we can accomplish our desired goal. Scripture is provided to instruct the what, when and how to do “it”. In Eccl. 9:10, the Spirit had Solomon pen this sage advice. All would do well to heed this instruction. Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.
   First, the what. One must choose what to do. Read that passage again. Notice that the Spirit did not tell us what to do. This is entirely up to the individual, as Psalm 119:109a clearly shows. My soul is continually in my hand: We are also required to determine what is of most importance to us as we live our lives. This too, is a Bible concept. In Matt. 16:26, Jesus directed His disciple’s attention toward the soul by asking questions. He asked: For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? So, the “whatsoever thy hand findeth to do” based on importance, should be the well-being of your soul and making Biblical provision for its eternity.
   Secondly, the when. This is an easy one, as we see that in this life only can we accomplish anything. Of course, the time we might have is limited, as we cannot know how long our lives will be. The Spirit had the psalmist show a probable span of life in Psalm 90:10. But in the latter part of the verse, we are told: “yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” In the N.T. the church was also warned of how brief life is. In Jas. 4:14, the church was reminded that life “is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” Time is a commodity that one cannot afford to waste. If our time here is not properly focused on the soul, our time on earth is wasted.  
    Since we’ve covered the what (the provision for the soul), and the when (while in this life), we now need to address the ‘how’. We were told in the scripture above the ‘how’ is “with thy might   ”. The Spirit had Solomon tell us that whatever we choose to do, in this life, we are to put all we have into accomplishing it. Many have accomplished much through hard work and dedication to a particular thing. For example, it is agreed that Larry Bird, the all star forward for the Boston Celtics from 1979 through 1992 was not a naturally gifted athlete. Yet, he accomplished much during his career. Even as a premier player in his prime, he always arrived early for practice, remained there after the other players had finished, constantly worked to refine his skills, and encouraged his teammates to do the same. For this reason, he was respected by teammates and opponents alike. He was also feared by rival teams for his developed abilities and his tenacity. All agreed Larry put “all his might” into becoming the best he could be.
   What single word encapsulates “with thy might”? The word “diligence” fits this. One who puts forth all his might to accomplish something is diligent. In order to be diligent, one must have a deep “commitment” to that which they want to accomplish. Sure, one has to exert their strength, force, and power to elevate themselves to the pinnacle of supremacy in any earthly endeavor, but where does this start?   It begins in the mind. The same is true if we desire to be pleasing to God and spend eternity with Him. Jesus affirmed this in Matt. 22:37 when He was asked what was the greatest Commandment in the Law. Christ’s answer: Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.  None doubts the commitment of Jesus, nor His diligence in the doing of His Father’s Will. Diligence is defined as: careful and persistent work or effort. Christ gave His all, including His life on the cross to carry out God’s Will so that our soul could have opportunity to be saved.
   In the first part of John 14:31, we see Jesus’ declaration to His apostles of His love and commitment to His Father. But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. The evidence of His love and commitment was the diligence with which He “did” the Commandments. It is in John 14:15 where Jesus tells us how to show our love to Him and how to show our diligence toward Him. He said: If ye love me, keep my commandments. 1John 5:3 confirms this and that “it” is not too hard. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. 
    Some, having heard the Word and have begun to follow and serve the Lord, realize the difficulty of continuing therein because of the persecution of others, or the “call of the world”. They, like the disciples of John chapter six, begin to question the Word. Sadly, like those of John 6:66, many go back, and walk no more with Him. What does this show? It shows a lack of commitment, dedication, and diligence. This equates to a lost soul.
    The only “it” that matters in this life is loving God and keeping His Commandments in preparation for eternity. Why not start today? Obey the gospel. Then strive to live the rest of your life in faithful service to God in full accordance with His Word. This includes inviting all others to do the same. This is the only way to “get it done”.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Importance Of Conviction

Importance Of Conviction

     The article below is ‘borrowed’ from the Northside Anchor, the bulletin of the Northside church of Christ in Calhoun Georgia.
It is a fitting article as conviction cannot take place until one “hears” with their ears, obeys and commits themselves to the Lord in full accordance with the Word of God.

The lack of conviction usually yields to the ever-dangerous spirit of lawlessness. Lawlessness is a manifestation of one's lack of self-discipline and serves as a breeding ground for hypocrisy. Lawlessness is bred of weakness, and typically yields to those not in authority, the ignorant, and the otherwise unqualified leader, including women.

A leader without conviction usually possesses a certain degree of gullibility, in that, when error is being advanced in some manner, he may be easily led to believe that it is acceptable. As a consequence, this type of leader will be the 'pied piper' who will lead the flock into apostasy. Paul warned the Ephesian elders there would be some of their own number who would “...arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them” (Acts 20:30).

A faithful leader with conviction will serve as a valiant shepherd when the devil's 'wolves' are threatening the flock. Paul writes to Titus concerning the fortitude which should be possessed of those who are leaders, and states that they are to hold “fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped...” (Titus 1:9-11). Clearly, when a leader possesses conviction, he is one who is stable in his faith and in his work (1 Cor. 15:58).

The lack of conviction will usually be accompanied by a lack of good sense. Consider Solomon's son, Rehoboam in 1 Kings 12. Upon the death of his father, he comes to the throne of Israel. His subjects came to him pleading for relief from the excessive labor and heavy taxation. Rehoboam consulted with the older and wiser men who advised him to lighten the burden and the people would respond to him favorably. However, the king also consulted with the young men among whom he had grown up, who advised him to increase the burden on the people. Bear in mind, that any conviction which is deemed to be of any value, is based on knowledge and wisdom. The older men possessed such knowledge, the younger did not. Rehoboam hearkened to the council of the younger men, and as a consequence of this lack of common sense, the kingdom divided with ten of the tribes departing. This scene sadly depicts many similar scenarios in various congregations of the Lord's church today, where the lack of common sense in its leaders in listening to the unlearned, inexperienced, and the unwise, have caused those congregations to be weaken by virtue of its division.

The lack of conviction will, as well, give way to the spirit of compromise. The child of God should never “...give place to the devil...” (Eph. 4:27). A leader is not to compromise with the 'gainsayer,' he must 'convince' him, and 'stop' his 'unruly and vain' deceit (Titus 1:9-10). Paul urged the Thessalonian brethren to “...stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle” (2 Thess. 2:15). For a leader to compromise the truth, clearly exposes his incompetence. A competent leader will emulate the sentiment as expressed by Solomon: “Buy the truth, and sell it not...” (Prov. 23:23). Consequently, if one possesses conviction, i.e., a strong persuasion of belief, he will not compromise that belief, but will be disposed to defend it (Jude 3).

Conviction in leadership cannot be over emphasized. May our leaders apply these words from the apostle Paul: “Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hard- ness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ (Emp. RH). No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits. Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things” (2 Tim. 2:1-7).
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The Word of the Lord is very clear in that one must not only hear, but also do as God Commands. However, one cannot consistently “do” as the Bible teaches unless or until they are “committed” to God and His Word.  Read, study, and meditate on the Word of God daily, and do it because you love God. This is when “commitment” becomes evident.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Who Are You Trying To Fool?

Who Are You Trying To Fool?

     The above question is sometimes asked when the one who is about to be ‘fooled’ begins to see the deceit in the actions or antics of one who is trying to fool, trick, beguile, or dupe them. When one is successful in the fooling of another, the ‘fooled’ might say: “Fool me once, shame on you; but fool me twice, shame on me”. To be deceived in a thing the first time is bad enough, but to be conned in the same situation twice simply means that person is not being observant of those who would repeatedly take advantage of them.  
   Through the years, there have been many sayings about being fooled. I suspect this is because so many have been fooled over the annals of time. Observation of this tactic likely produced sayings that would be remembered, passed on to others, recorded in print or some other means in an effort to prevent folks in the future to be misled in the same way. This is why someone once said: “if we don't learn from our past, we are doomed to repeat it  ”.   
     One of my favorite quotes on this subject of being fooled is: “You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all of the time   ”. This is often attributed to Abraham Lincoln. While the saying is true, the exact origin and whether Lincoln actually said it are debated.  But as I contemplated this quote, I realized that whoever originated it, left off the most important part.     The most important point would have been stated if they concluded with “and you cannot fool God any time ”!
   The Holy Spirit had the psalmist pen the Words of Psa. 94:11, and these Words shows that none can fool God. The LORD knoweth the thoughts of man, that they are vanity. God, in His foreknowledge, knows the thoughts of man before man thinks them. When we forget God or try to fool God, remember what the psalmist penned in Psa 44:21. Shall not God search this out? for he knoweth the secrets of the heart.
    God’s foreknowledge of our thoughts does not alter the fact that man has choice in all things. Man was created with the capability to reason, consider options and choose, and those born following creation were also given this capability. When a person receives improper, or inadequate information, the likelihood of becoming fooled or deceived increases exponentially. As stated earlier, to be fooled or deceived is a bad thing. But something that is far worse is when one deceives themselves. We are told in Gal. 6:3 of one way, one ‘fools’ himself.  For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. Therefore, if a person thinks they are ‘saved’ and are not, they are fooling or deceiving themselves. Who are they trying to fool?
   God’s Word warns against self-deception in Jer.37:9, and in 1Cor. 3:18. Additionally, warnings against allowing others to deceive us can be found in Jer. 29:8; Matt. 24:4; Eph. 5:6; 2Thess. 2:3; and 1John 3:7, and the Words “let no man deceive you   ” are found in several of these verses. So, whether you are trying to deceive others, or if you are fooling (deceiving) yourself regarding the soul saving plan God formulated, and was brought to fruition by Jesus, His only begotten Son, you are doing so contrary to God’s Word and are sinning against Him.
     Another quote about being fooled is attributed to Søren Kierkegaard, the Danish existentialist philosopher. He said: "There are two ways to be fooled. One is to believe what isn't true; the other is to refuse to believe what is true."  Let us look at both of these. 1) What does God’s N.T. Word say about believing what isn’t true? 1John 4:1 commands that we are not to believe “every spirit ”, but to “try them ” (test them), “because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” Additionally, 2Pet. 2:1 shows that the “false teachers” among them brought in “damnable heresies” and would “bring upon themselves swift destruction.” Those who are fooled by and follow the damnable heresies put forth by false teachers will also see eternal destruction. 2) What does God’s N.T. Word say about refusing to believe what is true? Rom. 2:8 tells us that they “that are contentious, and do not obey the truth ”, are subject to the wrath of God.  Then, there is 2Thess. 2:12, which clearly teaches that “they all might be damned who believed not the truth ”.
   Don’t allow others to fool you, and don’t fool yourself. One can only please God by doing what His Word directs. Read, study and meditate on the Word of God, and always do as He directs. His Word is the only thing that is divine truth as 2Tim. 3:16 shows - All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  The next verse states that by inspired scripture, man can be “throughly furnished unto all good works”.
   The Bereans of Acts 17:10-11 weren’t trying to fool anyone, and they did not want to be fooled. What did they do? After hearing the preaching and teaching, “searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Jesus said it best. In John 8:31-32, He said to continue in His Word made one a disciple (learner, pupil) of Him. Then He stated: And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. Free from being fooled, and if one follows and obeys that truth, free from sin. Who are you trying to fool?   Obey the gospel. Remain faithful till death. Seek to please God and be with Him for eternity when time ends.  

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Christ Receiveth Sinful Men

Christ Receiveth Sinful Men

     The hymn that also serves as title of the article, was written in 1718 by Erdman Neumeister. It was then translated from German into English in 1858 by Mrs. Frances Bevan. Many know the song by the first phrase in the first verse – Sinners Jesus will receive. Some hymnals utilize three verses, while others have four.   Below are the three proper verses and the chorus of the song. The omitted verse carries a Calvinistic view, and is improper to sing. NOTE: All hymns must be scriptural to be pleasing to God, as a hymn that teaches false doctrine leads folks away from God.

Christ Receiveth Sinful Men

(1)

Sinners Jesus willl receive, Sound this word of grace to all

Who the heav’nly pathway leave, all who linger, all who fall.

(2)

Come and He will give you rest; Trust Him, for His Word is plain;

He will take the sinful-est: Christ receiveth sinful men.

(3)

Christ receiveth sinful men, Even me with all my sin;

Purged from every spot and stain, Heaven with Him I enter in.

(chorus)

Sing it o’er and o’er again; Christ receiveth sinful men;

Make the message clear and plain; Christ receiveth sinful men.

    The words of the hymn are a wonderful sentiment and one in which many stake their eternity.   However, many are confused and deceived regarding “how” Jesus receiveth the sinful. In Matt. 11:28-30, the Words of Jesus are spoken to the children of Israel as the kingdom (the church) was soon to come into being.   His Words here were to call them to repentance that they might be prepared, and might accept the change that God required as the Law (covenant) changed.  
     He said unto them - Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.  He was telling them that the ‘transition’ was not a difficult one, provided they would submit their will to that of the Father in Heaven. Previously, in Matt. 7:21 He had told His followers - Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 
   Then, for us to ascertain, and to know what the will of the Father in Heaven is, we must look to the New Testament (after Acts 2) when the church began. We are told in Rom. 6:16 that one will ‘serve’ the one to whom he/she yields themselves. The brethren there were asked: Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?  Then, in verse 17, we see the formula whereby Christ will receive the sinful man. But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.  ‘Were’ indicates their past state, and have obeyed indicates they had, through obedience, become saved. Verse 18 is affirmation of this fact. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. 
    However, there is a problem among some in the religious world, in that many fail to learn or understand what “that form of doctrine” is. Perhaps some also fail to realize that the Bible heart is the mind and “from the heart” means “with full understanding”. Let’s deal with each of these so if you so desire, you can come to the Lord in the right way and be received of Him. 1) That form of doctrine equates to what one MUST do to be saved. There are many passages that teach this. Rom. 6:3-4, Acts 22:16, and 1Pet. 3:21 are just a few. Every one of these teach being baptized “into Christ”. The “form” or pattern (Rom. 6:17) is the death, burial and resurrection of Christ (1Cor.15:1-4).   In participating in this, we “die” to the love and practice of sin, are “buried” with Christ in baptism, and are “raised” to walk in newness of life. 2) From the heart equates to the “will of the mind”. In Rom. 12:1-2 the Roman brethren were admonished to present their bodies a “living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God,” as part of their “reasonable service”. Additionally, they were warned against conforming to the world, and encouraged to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind ”. It is the mind that guides the body’s actions.
    To try to get Christ to ‘receive’ you in a way contrary to Bible teaching is vain. Jesus taught His brethren this in John 10:1 He said: Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.  We are all sinful as Rom. 3:23 shows. Will you not submit your will to that of Christ and do as He Commands in His Word?   Hear the Word. Believe that Christ is the Son of God. Repent (turn away in mind and action) from your past sins. Confess that Christ is God’s Son. Be baptized into Christ for the remission of sins. Christ will receive you. Then continue to prepare for eternity with God and Christ by remaining faithful until death.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Anticipation

Anticipation

      For what are we looking? Another way of asking this is, “what do we anticipate?” Anticipation is an emotion that everyone experiences as they consider or await an expected event. Both questions asked here are very broad in that the answer depends on the goal or the purpose for which one strives, or what event we might expect. Often, one’s anticipation is regarding something that has been predicted to become a reality. Perhaps one anticipates graduating high school, going to college, getting married, having a child, or many other activities of life.   Many of these milestones are what folks use to gauge success in their lives.
    One strange thing about success is that many define it differently. There have also been many different quotes about success. One interesting quote has several variations. It is - Success is a journey, not a destination. Arthur Ashe, the tennis player, added “The doing is often more important than the outcome.” Mark Twain viewed success in a slightly different vein. He added “It requires constant effort, vigilance and reevaluation.” I think both Arthur and Mark missed it slightly.  While success does take constant effort, vigilance and reevaluation, the only true success is the outcome of spiritual success. True spiritual success only occurs when the faithful journey leads to the proper final destination.
    What is it that we should anticipate more than anything else? This is also where many folks’ answers vary. Sadly, many focus on this life alone and give little if any thought to that which is beyond this realm. Should not all work toward rest and peace with God for eternity?   Is that not real success? It certainly is a destination all should seek, and all need to make that journey properly. One synonym for anticipation is hope. We are told in 1John 3:3 what our journey on earth will be if we desire and anticipate spending eternity with God - And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he (Christ) is pure. 
    For us to anticipate, or hope for eternity with God, we must begin and complete a journey. That journey must begin in this life and the earthly portion concludes when we pass from this life. 1Pet. 1:3-4 helps us understand how God’s plan for the Salvation of souls works and how we can have access to that plan. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,⁴ To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,. God’s mercy is extended to mankind in this life as His Word is preached and opportunity to obey the gospel is ours.
   Also per this passage, Christ’s death, burial and resurrection from the dead to die no more provided the means where by man could anticipate something beyond the grave. In Job 14:14a we are presented a question none could answer until Christ came, died, and was resurrected to return to heaven, never to face death again. That question was “If a man die, shall he live again? ” Christ answered the question and provided the hope that mankind needed.   However, when Christ died on the cross, and came forth from the grave, none were instantly saved. It wasn’t until the inspired gospel was preached, received and fully obeyed, that any could realize Salvation from past sins.   In Acts 2:40, as Peter’s sermon was recorded on the day of Pentecost, A.D. 33, we see that ‘many other words’ than are recorded were used to exhort these folks to do something. Then Peter said: “Save yourselves from this untoward generation”. Only when they had done as the Spirit directed through the Word and were baptized into Christ, could they truly anticipate eternity with God in heaven.
    While these folks, and all who have properly obeyed the gospel, can now anticipate heaven with God for eternity, none who continue to live in physical bodies have succeeded in making it there. While we anticipate a home in heaven, we must still work toward reaching that goal. The Spirit had Paul write the Philippian brethren that they might “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” (Phil. 2:12).   Yes, it will take constant effort, vigilance and reevaluation on the part of each individual. As stated here, one must work. That is a constant effort. We are told in 1Thess. 5:6 to “watch and be sober” (serious minded). This is vigilance. We are also told in 2Cor. 13:5 to “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith”. This is re-evaluation.
     Only if we obey the gospel, then work, watch and examine ourselves according to God’s New Testament Word and make adjustments to align fully with His Will, can we truly anticipate eternity with God in Heaven. We learn from Rom. 8:24 that one can only anticipate (hope for) heaven, as we have yet to see it. Then, verse 25 teaches us that anticipation must be coupled with patience. But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. 
    What do you anticipate for eternity? Upon what is that anticipation based? Examine yourself by God’s Word. Watch that you stay on track and patiently work (remain obedient) to reach the goal. Make any changes the Word requires.   Then, you can truly anticipate heaven.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Let's Take A Walk

Let’s Take A Walk

      Walking has been around as long as man. The voice of the Lord God is the first to have been reported as “walking in the Garden in the cool of the day”, (Gen. 3:8). This to say that God ‘transported Himself’ there as His presence was “amongst the trees of the Garden”.   Man has no doubt been walking since creation as this was the means by which he was able, as a fully formed human adult, to move about. God, in His foreknowledge, provided man all he needed to do what God expected of him. God created man with the ability to walk, whereby man could “dress and keep” the Garden of Eden as we see from Gen. 2:15.  
     It becomes obvious in observing an infant as it grows, that the desire to walk soon becomes their focus.   They see others moving about from place to place at a much faster pace than crawling. Proficiency in this area comes only after much practice and some falls. Perseverance is required and success can be achieved to the point of becoming second nature. Before long, “the baby” is scurrying about from room to room and one must keep an eye on them lest they “walk” where they shouldn’t. Anyone having raised children knows of the harm that often results when the children don’t always watch where they go.
     But walking can mean much more than the physical moving of oneself from one place to another. For instance, in Gen. 5:22, Enoch “walked with God”. This has an obvious spiritual connotation, as vs 24 repeats that he walked with God, and adds, “and he was not; for God took him.” Enoch did not die because he aligned his mind, his life, and his ways after the Commands of God.   Gen. 6:9 also shows that Noah was a “just man” who walked with God. He followed God in all his ways, including the building of the ark, the means by which humanity was spared total annihilation.
    And we would be remiss to not mention Abraham, the “friend of God”, who in Gen. 17:1, was told by God Himself, “walk before me, and be thou perfect”, meaning follow God’s directives. This is affirmed in Jer.10:23. O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.  God, in His Word, tells man how to walk.
   The Spirit had the sweet singer of Israel pen Words which should make all seek to serve God in full accordance with His Commandments. One such place is Psa. 128:1 - Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. This word “blessed” in the Hebrew (O.T.), and Greek (N.T.) means “happy”. Later, the Spirit had Solomon write: He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the LORD: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him. – Prov. 14:2.   This same idea is conveyed in the N.T. as the Spirit had the beloved apostle pen the Words of 1John 2:5-6 for our direction. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. ⁶ He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. 
   So, the question arises, How did He (Christ) walk? We must know this before we can fashion our lives after His. John 15:10 tells us that Jesus’ walk was keeping His Father’s Commandments, continually abiding in the Father’s love. Christ Himself, in John 6:38, said He did not come down from heaven to do His own will, “but the will of him that sent me.”  From this, it should be clear, that it we would “walk as Jesus walked”, we are to strive to do God’s Will.   We are told in 2Cor. 5:7 that those the obedient “walk by faith, not by sight”. We also know from Rom. 10:17 that faith is only attainable through the Word of God.  
   Now, let’s take a walk. Before one can “walk”, they must be born. And before one can walk spiritually, per John 3:3-6, they must be born again. This requires a “death, a burial, and a resurrection. This “new birth” is explained in Rom. 6:3-4 - Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? ⁴ Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Being “born again” is not one’s whole “walk” in the Lord. In Col 2:6, the brethren there were admonished - As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 
   Contrast this with the walk of those in the world as Eph. 2:2 describes. Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: This is echoed in Col. 3:6-7 following a list of some things against God which one who loves God will ‘mortify’ or put to death. For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: ⁷ In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. 
   Why did Enoch, Noah, Abraham, David, Jesus, Peter, Paul, as well as countless other obedient folks “walk with God? That’s simple. It’s because they loved God. 2John verse 6, the Words of the Spirit to John the apostle say it best. And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it.  Also, the Words of Christ in John 14:15 - If ye love me, keep my commandments. 
   This is an urgent plea because we MUST choose while in this life. We are warned in 1John 2:17. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.  Do God’s Will now. Obey the gospel, then patiently walk in the love of God, doing His Commandments, awaiting the promise of heaven as Heb. 10:36 shows.  For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. Let’s walk together – serving God in this life.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

I'm Not What I Used To Be

I’m Not What I Used To Be

     Often, when I have difficulty in writing a bulletin article I go to a source provided in the writings of others. I appreciate the efforts of others in the cause of Christ for truth and right. Some of these folks have gone to their reward, and others are still with us for the present.   In their writings and in mine, one thing seems to be apparent. We are all not what we used to be. We are all changing as we live. This is because, hopefully, we learn more each day. What we learn could have a positive, or a negative effect on us, depending on what we learn and then, what we do with it.
    Some learn of good things (God’s Word) and apply it in their lives, while others learn and embrace what is evil and wicked. Fortunately, some who “learn” of evil, have been taught, and recognize evil as such, and avoid it at all costs so that they might be pleasing to God. Sadly, still others think being “a moral person” will gain them a home in heaven. Even sadder still is when the concept of good or evil is ignored as a person lives their lives ‘for self’, not considering that there is a reason each soul is granted time here on earth. The outcome for each life is directly dependent on what one does while living their lives in response to God’s Word.
     I found the following poem in the writings of my wife’s Father recently. It conveys what I wanted to say much better than I could. It also directs the minds of the readers to God’s Word and what each should do with it. God’s Word is a gift of God, provided that we might: 1) be born again as we obey the gospel - John 3:1-7; 2) grow spiritually as we partake of the sincere milk of the Word -1Pet 2:2; 3) stand fast in the faith, remaining strong -1Cor 16:13; 4) remain faithful until death - Rev 2:10b.
    None of us should “be what we used to be” because we are to continue to grow in grace and continually to excel in service to God in preparation so that we might spend eternity with Him. I sincerely hope that everyone will open their heart (mind) to the Word of God and be altered just as God intended. I hope this poem helps lead you in the right direction and that you might open your heart to God’s Word and Salvation.

I’m Not What I Used To Be 

1)
One thought that recently came to me,
Was, today, I’m not what I used to be.
Now, this could be good, and it could be bad,
It might be funny, or even sad. 

2)
There’s one thing for sure; I used to be young,
And spake with a quick and youthful tongue.
I loved to laugh, and jump and run.
My energy supply was second to none.

3)
One time in life, I thought as a child,
No guilt, as of yet, or, by sin defiled.
From problems of life I was really care-free,
But today, I’m not what I used to be. 

4)

And, I used to be a servant of sin,
But was spared of most things that people get in,
Strong drink, “loose” women, other acts of crime,
Thank God I can say, were never mine. 

5)
I have lived a life that was moral and clean,
And records of truth verify what I mean.
But only one plan God has for sin,
The good and the bad must be born again. 

6)
Paul wrote that, “Ye were servants of sin”,
Before, and not , they were born again.
The “change” in them that had to be made.
Was when from the heart (mind), the Lord they obeyed. 

7)
The “servants of righteousness” they then became,
And brought honor and glory to Jesus’ name.
So in that last day in that “final Inspection”,
I hope to be one of the ransomed inspection.

O.D. Wilson – deceased

    It’s your life to live. No one can live it for you and none can reap your reward, nor can anyone bear your punishment. In Gal 6:7 we find: Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. We also know from Ezek 18:20a - The soul that sinneth, it shall die. “Sinneth” means one who continues to live in sin. Don’t be whom you used to be. Make the change now. Attune your heart (mind) to God’s Word and God’s plan. Obey the gospel. Then live your life learning and growing and prepare for that final day. Your soul’s eternity depends on it. And when your life is over, it’s too late to alter your destination.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life?

What Are You Doing The Rest of Your Life?

      The title of this article is a great question. However, few really consider this seriously in view of eternity. Many contemplate what they would like to occur over the next few years and make plans accordingly. Some set a goal and make attempts to reach that goal even while overcoming many of the obstacles life might present. Sometimes, because of circumstances beyond our control, we may even need to change goals. But still, the object of most folks’ attention seems to be so that they might attain the particular goal while “in this life”. This is because their focus is usually ‘on this life’ only. Sadly, this is the case with many as they have assumed that God will accept them ‘as they are’ because of His great mercy.
   The responses to the question in our title will vary greatly depending on what one wants out of life. It could be a family with a wife and children. It might be the home in which the family might safely abide and continue through this life. This goal might be a particular career. The goal may be success in that career so you can ‘enjoy retirement’ after the career. The goals are as diverse as humanity, as all individuals are different in some ways while alike in other ways. But do not all these, family, home, career, etc., all only exist in this life? Will they not perish when life itself ceases? Yes, according to 2Pet 3:10, the earth, as well as the things of this life will all be destroyed.
   So, what plan do you have for when your portion on earth is over? When do you plan for what is beyond this present time? Of course, it is before the event for which you are planning occurs. A couple plans their wedding prior to speaking their vows before the authority performing the marriage ceremony. One plans for the birth of a child before the day in which the infant is to come forth from the womb. A person begins their education before they start the course of study that leads to a particular career. Is it not sensible to begin the preparation for what is beyond this life, while we are alive, and while we have the capability to do so? If not, we won’t be prepared at the end of our life, or when the Lord returns.
   This was the warning of James 4:13ff. The Spirit had this penman write these scattered saints to warn them of the brevity of life. He was not telling them they were not make plans, but all plans they made were to be with the understanding that the Lord could return at any time. This is the message of James 4:15 - For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.  When the Lord returns and one has not made proper plans for eternity, it will be everlastingly too late. But when will that be? No one knows as God has not revealed this to humanity. In 1Thess. 5:1-2, the Spirit had the apostle Paul remind the brethren of Thessalonica of this fact. He wrote: “But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. ² For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.”  There will be no time to prepare when the Lord returns.
     The most important time in one’s life is now. This is because the time that is passed is irretrievable. The time that “may or may not” come, is yet in the future. We have no control of what has been, nor of what will be, but we can alter the course of our lives in preparation for eternity. This is true for those who have obeyed the gospel as well as for those who have not. All today, and for approximately the last two-thousand years are in the New Testament age. This is the final dispensation of time. It began when the Spirit delivered the gospel to the apostles in Jerusalem, Pentecost A.D. 33. It concludes when Christ returns the kingdom (the church) to His Father per 1Cor. 15:24 - Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.  This is why Paul was directed to remind these brethren in 2Cor. 6:2 “. . . behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
   What of those who have not become “children of God”? What should they do the rest of their lives? According to John 1:12, only those that “receive” Christ can become the sons of God. This is accomplished only when one obeys the gospel. This is initial obedience and entails several things, as laid out in the New Testament. 1) Hear the gospel – Rom 10:17;  2) Believe in Christ as the Son of God – John 8:24; 3) Repent of sins – Acts 17:30; 4) Confess that Christ is the Son of God – Rom. 10:9; 5) Be Baptized into Christ – Rom. 6:3-4. Then, per 2Cor. 5:17, one has become a “new creature”. Once one has obeyed the gospel, they are ”in Christ” and must, 6) Remain faithful unto death – Rev. 2:10b. It’s a rather simple plan that requires putting God and His Word first in one’s life. This is a lifetime commitment as each person’s soul is at stake.
     Those who have obeyed the gospel also must strive to continually serve God as He has laid out in the New Testament.   This requires an on-going dedication to the Word and the forsaking of all that would cause one to sin and separate them from God. To do this requires that one know what God says to man through His Word. 2Tim. 2:15 teaches study is the only way to know what God has revealed to man and to be approved unto God. In short, as the Spirit had Paul write in Phil. 2:12, Christians, for the rest of their lives, are to: “work out your own Salvation with fear and trembling ”. We cannot afford to be as Israel in Amos 6:1. “Woe to them that are at ease in Zion ”. We’ve not made it to heaven yet. We have life to live first. Live whatever time you have left in preparation for eternity. Your soul depends on it.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

What We Say

What We Say

     As we are born, we begin to be exposed to all sorts of stimuli. As our little minds begin to absorb that which is around us, we develop various abilities. One of the early developments, and one that thoroughly pleases parents (at least at the first), is when ‘the baby’ begins to say words. We then become capable of stringing words together to convey ideas, make the arguments needed to support those ideas, and to communicate with each other. There are multiple avenues in which saying words can be utilized, so we should be aware that what we say reveals much about us.
     In many instances, not only what we say, but how we say it, has a great impact on how the message is received. The tone of voice often dictates how others perceive what is said. Some have even surmised that one can say pretty much anything and get by with it, so long as it is said with a smile. I don’t agree with this, as one’s actions often bely the intent of a person’s mind, regardless of the friendliness of their face. For instance, if one menacingly approaches me while smiling, I have a hard time seeing a pleasant outcome. Therefore, many who instruct others in the area of public speaking, sales, and other areas in which ‘words’ are used to convince folks to purchase a product or embrace an idea, stress the idea that the way something is said, as well as the ‘optics’ of how it is said has an impact on what is received by the hearer and the final outcome.
     But regardless of ‘how’ something is said, the truth is the truth and a lie is a lie. Truth and lies are diametrically opposed and the presentation does not change the character of either. The latter part of 1John 2:21 is confirmation of this. The Spirit had the beloved apostle pen, “no lie is of the truth”. This is in part why the Spirit, in 1Cor. 1:10, had Paul write: Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
     This includes what is proclaimed from the pulpit, as well as from house to house. Peter was sent to the home of Cornelius as the gospel was first being offered to the Gentiles. The message provided Peter by inspiration was faithfully delivered, concluding with the Words of Acts 10:42-43. “And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. 43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.” We also know this preaching includes the requirement of baptism, as Acts 10:48a shows. And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. The commanding of preaching baptism ‘into Christ’ is a necessity because remission of sins does not occur until one is baptized into Christ, having been properly taught. When what we say is not according to the Word of God it is a mixed message, and this results in souls not being saved.
     Mixed messages also tend to divide congregations. This is why truth and consistency from the pulpit is so essential. The Spirit had Paul warn some congregations of this. In Gal.1:8-9 these brethren were warned that if any, whether an apostle or an angel from heaven, preached a message other than what had been delivered by inspiration and which they had received, the preacher would be accursed. This is quite obvious when the inspired directive of 2Tim. 4:2 is considered. Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. The reason was also given why the “whole truth” (the Word) MUST be faithfully proclaimed is laid out in the two following verses. We have all observed when folks “heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears ”, and “be turned unto fables ”. Mixed messages and all other false teaching leads man to destruction.
     On the other hand, the true Word of God leads man to Salvation. Paul, according to Rom. 1:14-17 knew that preaching the truth is important. He was ready to preach the gospel in Rome. He was “not ashamed of the gospel of Christ ”, because he knew it “is the power of God unto Salvation to every one that believeth ”. He knew that the “righteousness of God ” is revealed in the gospel. The Spirit also hade Paul write to the brethren in Colossae and confirmed that “the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” And in 1Cor 15:1-2 we see the result when what was said was truth, and when the truth is received, believed and obeyed. Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.
     What we say may very well help some lost soul see the truth and help guide them to obedience to the Word of God. The primary mission of the church is to take the soul saving New Testament gospel to all. Hopefully they will hear and obey. On the other hand, what we say, if not in accordance with God’s Word, may very well lead a soul toward eternal destruction. Let’s all search the scriptures daily, say the right things whether in the pulpit or across the kitchen table that will help someone learn the truth so they can make an informed decision about the eternal destiny of their soul.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Fractured?

Fractured?

     A fracture by definition is a break or a crack in a bone. It occurs when a force is applied to the bone that exceeds its structural capacity. There are many different causes for the breaking of a bone. There are also many types of breaks. Upon looking this up, I was surprised to learn there are hairline, greenstick, closed, open, displaced (unstable), nondisplaced (stable), something called comminuted, and spiral fractures. The bone is part of the body and if part of the body is affected, the whole body suffers too. Regardless of the cause for the break or the severity of the break, each one needs treatment to repair the damage before the body can perform properly and operate up to its full potential.  
    This concept was recognized by Abraham Lincoln. In his 1858 senate campaign speech, he said: “A house divided against itself cannot stand”. He knew that the 1857 Dred Scott case and its outcome had divided the nation. Lincoln also knew the “body”, in his case, the United States of America, could not operate effectively when part of it was broken. It took a great deal of effort, a civil war, and the loss of many lives to begin the process of healing which the country desperately needed. Of course after the “cast” is applied to stabilize the broken bone, it takes time for it to fully heal. Sadly, a bone once broken, can be broken again provided enough pressure is applied against it.
   Many attribute the above quote to Mr. Lincoln, who would serve in the Senate and then as President of the United States until his assassination. But these words did not originate with Lincoln. He was a student of the Bible and “borrowed” this concept from Christ Himself. In Mark 3:25 as Jesus was responding to the scribes who accused Jesus of having “Beelzebub”, and “by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils”. To this, Jesus said: “And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand.“ In the previous verse He also declared that a kingdom divided among itself cannot stand.
   When Christ referenced a kingdom, He was speaking of the church for which He would die at the end of His earthly ministry. The beginning of Christ’s earthly ministry began after He had heard John had been cast into prison.   We are told in Matt. 4:17 - From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.  That kingdom is the church as Matt. 16:18-19 clearly indicates. Peter had made the great declaration that Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of the living God”. Jesus told Peter this had been revealed to him by the Father. Then, He said, “I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. ¹⁹ And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven:”. Christ’s death on the cross would not stop Him. In fact, according to Acts 20:28, the church was purchased with His blood.
   Additionally, according to Eph. 1:20-23, when God raised Jesus from the dead, He placed Christ “to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body”. Since the church is “His body”, all the members of the church are part of the “body of Christ”. In 1Cor. 12:25-27 the Spirit has the apostle Paul warn the Corinthian church regarding divisions within the body. This is in the context of the spiritually gifted within the church in the absence of the written Word. However, the premise remains. Christians are “the body of Christ, and members in particular” (27). And “there should be no schism in the body” (25). When division exists, a departure from the truth has occurred in part of the body. When a fracture occurs in the “body of Christ” the whole body suffers. We are reminded in Eph. 5:30, “we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.” Then, we are assured in Eph. 5:32 that “This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.”  
    Have “fractures” occurred in the church, the “body of Christ”? Of course they have. Near the beginning of the first epistle to Corinth, the Spirit had Paul warn these brethren of divisions in the church. 1Cor. 1:10 drives this point home and also tells what will prevent the stress and strain that fractures or divides the body of Christ. “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” When the “house”, the “body”, the “kingdom”, all of which are the church, fail to speak the same thing, fail to be perfectly joined together in the same mind and the same judgment, there is a fracture. When this occurs, a part of the body is broken because it has departed from the proper teaching of the New Testament. In such a case, that part of the body needs repair.
   This can only be accomplished by following the admonition delivered to Paul by the Holy Spirit and penned in Phil. 3:16 - Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.  That “same rule” must be authorized by Christ as is seen in Col. 3:17 - And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. This is why in 2Cor. 6:17 the faithful brethren 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,”. Don’t be fractured, broken, or in any way separated from God.   Follow His Word and it alone.    The reward awaits!

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ