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A Father's Love
A Father’s Love
Today is the day many have set aside to honor their fathers. Originally, this day was celebrated only by the Catholics in Europe, and started sometime in the middle ages. The idea was to “honor” Joseph, the husband of Mary, who was the mother of Jesus. In this culture he (Joseph) was referred to as: Nutritor Domini ("Nourisher of the Lord"). This is wrong – as it indicates that Joseph provided for Jesus and leaves God out of the picture. The specific day this was observed was March 19.
The Spanish and Portuguese brought the “custom” to the Americas, and it was kept by Catholics only in Mexico and Central and South America. “Father’s Day” was not observed in North America until after “Mother’s Day” was established after Anna Jarvis, a Methodist, began that tradition in 1905. In 1910, Father’s Day was set up in the USA to complement Mother’s Day, and so that the male parents also would be given honor. (Set up by a Presbyterian) NOTE: If mankind would have followed the Word of God, both parents would receive honor that is due them and they wouldn’t need a “special” day in which to receive it. Additionally, the parents (if they live by the Word) would live so as to be due the honor as they raise their children in the “nurture and admonition of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4) And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
After reading the information provided above, do you ever wonder how many of the “traditions” of the religious world are followed blindly by those of the world and Christians alike, while not knowing the origin? (2John vss 9-11) One is “blind” if they follow something, or someone and have no understanding of what, or who they follow. Jesus addresses this in Luke 6:39 in while teaching His disciples – those He called apostles. They were not to follow those who knew not where they were going. And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch?
There are many today that are “blind” regarding the Love of the Heavenly Father. They think (and teach) that God’s Love will supersede (take the place of) everything else come judgment time. Some foolishly teach that God’s Love is so great that He will not allow any to be lost. This is to say that God is not serious about what He says in His Word, the Bible. Will His Love “replace” His Justice? While it is true that God is a God of love and mercy, it is equally true that God is a just God. He told Israel this in Isaiah 45:21, and it has Never changed. Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the LORD? and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me.
The Love of the Father (Heavenly), is considered by many in the world (and sadly, by many in the church) to be much like what is depicted in a George Strait song of a few years ago. The title is: “A Father’s Love”. In the song, the world’s concept of love was applied to the earthly father and his reaction to fighting at school. Then it was applied to becoming a father himself and explaining it to his own child. Finally, we see it applied at death. The last stanza is fraught with religious error, yet accepted by many as “gospel”. It goes: ”Last night I dreamed I’d died and stood outside those pearly gates. When suddenly I realized there must be some mistake. If they know half the stuff I’ve done they’ll never let me in. Then somewhere from the other side I heard these words again. And they said, Let me tell you a secret, about a fathers love. A secret that my daddy said was just between us. You see, daddies don’t just love their children every now and then. It’s a love without end, amen. it’s a love without end, amen. Some of the many problems with this are . . .
1) No where does God’s Word teach that one goes to the “Pearly Gates” as soon as one dies. 2) God does not make mistakes. 3) Yes – we will be judged by what we do, per 1Corinthians 5:10. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. 4) There is no one on the “other side” of the Pearly gates other than God. (1John 5:7) For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. 5) It is blasphemous to speak of God as a “daddy”.(Matthew 6:9) 6) God’s Love is not “a secret between God and anyone. His gospel is available to all. In Acts 6:26-27, the Spirit had Paul speak of the “openness” of God’s Love and God’s plan to King Agrippa . God’s Love was declared previously by the prophets. For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.
God’s Love will never end, but unlike earthly fathers, God will always keep His Word – even to the judgement. In John 12:48 Jesus (who is God) said: He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. The Heavenly Father’s Love brought that Word to us so we can be saved. It is available to all.
Why reject the gospel and in so doing reject the Heavenly Father and His Love? Show your love to the Father. Honor the Heavenly Father daily by reading, studying, rightly dividing and then doing what He tells us to do in His Word. Do this, and have His Love and eternal blessing.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ.
Becoming Prey
Becoming Prey
There are a number of “nature” shows that reveal many horrors of the wild. Folks go out and photograph, film and document the hunted and the hunter. Often as we watch these shows we make comments such as: “That’s just nature.” Perhaps we think: “That’s just how it is.” How many of us stop and think that the hunted does not necessarily want to become prey? I seriously doubt if the fleeing antelope thinks about the “circle of life” while being pursued by the hungry lion. The truth is that the wild beasts of the field cannot “reason” and know nothing but the life they live and the instincts that were instilled in them at birth.
None of the creatures of the wild, whether of the jungle, desert or sea, choose the level they hold in the hierarchical structure of nature. This means they cannot determine where they exist in the “food chain”. Every creature is subordinate to the animal that is seeking him for their next meal. The only one that doesn’t have this to worry about is the one at the very top of the food chain. Of course, there is a lot of speculation as to which animal is at the top of this structure.
Humans on the other hand, have the capacity to reason and need not become prey to the one that desires to “devour” them. 1Peter 5:8-9 tells us we have a choice as to whether or not we are “eaten up” of the devil. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. If indeed we choose to not be a victim, we have the means available to avoid the snares of Satan. We are told in 2Corinthians 2:11 that we have no excuse if we find ourselves ensnared by the evil one. He has many tricks and strategies to get the soul of a Christian to turn to him and do his bidding. Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. We don’t have to fall prey to him.
Why then, do so many people become victims or fall prey to Satan? Perhaps another look at nature and the animals that have “instinct” is in order. How many animals go alone to the watering hole for a drink? Christians that isolate themselves from other Christians and the fellowship we have in Christ often become attainable targets for the one that would claim their souls. By instinct, the animals in the wild do what we are told to do in Galatians 6:2. They look out for one another. Christians are to: Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. There is safety in numbers after all, so long as all in the group follow Christ and His Word.
How many of these animals just rush right in for a drink and show no concern for the dangers that exist? Those who do, often do not live to roam and drink another day. Carelessness kills! Christians who do not remain alert to the dangers Satan presents are destined to fall. But Christians are warned and also told what to do to avoid becoming prey in 2Peter 1:5-10. This passage also speaks of those who forgot they had been cleansed by Christ’s blood. Those who do the things listed are not careless, but are making their calling and election sure, and won’t become prey to Satan. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; 6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; 7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. 8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. 10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:
The animals in the wild, if given the chance, will be very diligent in trying not to become prey. They are watchful, alert and cautious. Some of this is “inborn”, but the rest is taught by their herds, packs, or whatever their particular group is called. We ought to take a lesson from them on this as well. Sometimes, the reason that many become prey to the “devil” and fall for his devices is because they have not been taught properly. When an animal is not taught properly in the wild for any reason, death comes quickly. When the Christian is not taught properly, they do not grow, and unfortunately, thy too may die, but their death is spiritual. They have then become prey to the devil.
What do we think, or what is our comment when our brethren become prey to the devil? Do we think “that’s just the way it goes?” Do we not realize that a soul is being lost when one becomes prey to the devil? 2Peter 2:2 points out that this growth is to begin very early in our Christian life. As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: Let us, who have been born into the kingdom, not become prey. Apply the latter part of 2Peter 3:17 and look forward to an eternal home with God. Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. It’s your soul – Don’t let Satan “devour” you. Your eternal destination depends on it!
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Assurance or Ignorance
Assurance or Ignorance?
A few weeks ago, while watching a crime drama on television, something was said which truly reflects the world’s attitude toward heaven, or who will go to heaven. A suspect with a gun was surrounded by the police force tasked with bringing him to justice. Unfortunately, he was able to “snag” a hostage during the chase, and was threatening to kill the hostage if not allowed to escape. He said to the officer: “If you pull that trigger, she (the hostage) dies and we all go to heaven.” Certainly, the context of the scene would not allow us to think the suspect (in the show) was in any kind of proper relationship with God. Nothing had been shown to indicate that any of the folks were even religious.
This is how the world thinks about heaven and who will ultimately go there. The prevailing idea is that God is a merciful God. I don’t know any who will question or argue with this. However, I wonder if the whole world has forgotten that God is a just God! in Isaiah 45:21 the Old Testament people of God, Israel, had to be reminded of this. They were dwelling in ignorance, even to the point of worshiping wooden and graven images, yet felt they had assurance of God’s blessing just because they were “God’s people”. Their relationship with God was based on their fleshly relation to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the LORD? and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me.
How many of God’s people today, “Christians”, are living in ignorance, thinking they have assurance of eternal life based solely on the premise of being called the “people of God”? There is no assurance of salvation in the scriptures, without obedience to God. Therefore, those who don’t obey God need not expect to spend eternity with Him.
In 1Thessalonians 1:8, the justice of God toward the disobedient is clearly put forth as the Spirit had Paul to write to those brethren. Of this we can all rest assured. In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Then, In Acts 17:30-31 where the apostle Paul was in Athens at Mars Hill, we find a passage of scripture that speaks of both the ignorance of man and the assurance of God toward man. These verses also speak of the time when the wrath and the vengeance of God will be released on all who are disobedient. And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: 31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead. God has assured man through His Word, that salvation was made possible and available through the death and resurrection of Christ. However, not a single soul was saved or will be saved just because Jesus died, was buried and resurrected.
Many seek assurance of salvation by misapplying John 3:16. This verse clearly reads “should not perish” and not “shall not perish”. There is a huge difference in the two. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Christ’s death on the cross and His coming forth from the grave was to procure the “means” by which all can be saved, provided they are willing to be obedient and remain so. If we do not access, and contact the “blood of Christ” we have no hope of heaven or assurance of eternal life. 1Peter 1:18-19 tells us those who are obedient to the gospel are “redeemed” by the blood of Christ. Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:
We do have the “promise” of eternal life if we have obeyed the gospel and remain faithful throughout this life. This was what Peter was directed to say in Acts 2:39 as he preached to those Jews on Pentecost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. Of course, we know from 2Thessalonians 2:14 that the “call” is the call of the gospel as it is preached and taught to those outside of the body of Christ. None are “called” of God in any other way. Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. But what assurance do we have? As we go examine 1John 2:25 we see that we only “hath” eternal life in promise. And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.
Let us strive to know the Word of God so we can be obedient and continue to do the Will of God. We cannot afford to assume we are going to heaven, especially if we have not obeyed the gospel and remained faithful. The fact that God is a “just” God will in no way be negated by His mercy. Obey God today, by being obedient to the gospel, and then be assured of eternity with God by continuing to follow His Word. Don’t live in ignorance and, just assume that you are saved.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
An Inescapable Conclusion
An Inescapable Conclusion
Of all the many choices in life with which we are faced, there are very few that lead to an inescapable conclusion. Most situations can be handled in various ways and have been addressed in these ways through the years. God saw to it that Israel, His Old Testament people were told of their “whole duty” in life. In Ecclesiastes 12:13 the Spirit had Solomon, king of Israel write: Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. This is one Old Testament Commandment that is also applicable to those of us blessed to live in New Testament times. Of course, all of God’s Directives to man must be “rightly divided” so they can be properly understood and followed.
The Spirit had the apostle Paul write to Timothy in 2Timothy 2:15, the same thing He had Solomon write, but here, He also told how we are to “know” what God wants us to do as we strive to be pleasing and acceptable to God. Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. One cannot know if they will not study! If it applied to Timothy, it certainly applies to us.
But you may be asking: “Why is keeping the Commandments of God” the whole duty of man?” It is because man will be judged and either sentenced to eternity in a place of condemnation, or rewarded with eternity with God. When Jesus came to earth, He did not come to judge man. Jesus told the chief priests in John 12:47 His purpose for coming to earth was not to judge. His purpose was to bring Salvation (the means for Salvation) to man. And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. Jesus will become judge after He concludes His present function, which is to reign over the kingdom for which He gave His life on Calvary’s cross. We also know that the kingdom exists now and is not some future entity which is to be expected.
The judgment is an inescapable conclusion if one reads and studies the Bible. We do not know when this will occur, except to the degree the Bible tells us. We know the “end” will come after certain things are finished. In 1Corinthians 15:24-26 we see that Christ will “rule” and “reign” until the end. Also, death of our physical bodies will no longer exist when this great judgment occurs. 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. 25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. As long as people live and die, the kingdom continues on and Christ rules.
This means another inescapable conclusion is that all will die. Hebrews 9:27 makes this clear and nowhere is it stated in God’s Word that one is judged “when they die”. This passage simply says that death precedes judgment. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So, from this passage and the one above it, one must conclude that all will have died (or have been changed) per 1Corinthians 15:51 when the judgment will occur.
From these Bible facts, we can also conclude that while we are alive and have full access of our faculties is the time to make the needed changes in our lives. One way to make the changes that are needed within us is to prioritize. Jesus knew this and told those hearing Him preach the Sermon on the Mount that the “kingdom” (the church) which would soon come, and the righteousness of God would have to be first in their lives. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. The “these things” of which the Lord spoke were the other necessities of life such as food, raiment, and shelter.
How do we prioritize the many things within our lives to ensure that we seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness first? Well, it has to be through that which will judge us after life for all humanity is over. It is a choice all must make. We can receive His Word or we can reject it. In John 12:48, Jesus again speaking of the chief priests of His day said: He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. And as we read John 12:49-50, the verses that follow, we can surely “conclude” that God’s Word was what Jesus spoke, and that if we want the desired outcome at the judgment, we must put the Word of God first in our lives. For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. 50 And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak. It is an inescapable conclusion that only the Word of God, rightly divided and properly lived by leads to the eternal life we desire.
What is it that is keeping you from doing the things found in the Word of God so you can “lay hold” on the hope of salvation? Why can we not see that God’s Word is that which directs us? The Spirit had the Psalmist write: Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105) It is an inescapable conclusion that if we walk the wrong path, or walk the path of this life without the light of the gospel, we will reach a destination we do not wish to reach. Think about it – Make the needed changes now.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
If We Do Nothing
If We Do Nothing
Life itself is about doing something. We are aware of this from a school or work standpoint. If we “do nothing” while in school; put no effort into learning, or doing the assigned work, we will gain nothing. If we, upon finding gainful employment, are one who “does nothing” on the job, we will likely be seeking other employment very soon.
Much has been said lately about the danger to our health in not getting the needed exercise. Many folks are now struggling with obesity in large part due to “doing nothing” rather than walking, exercising, or participating in some activity designed to help them move about and get their blood flowing. Sometimes when people realize the severe harm they have done themselves by “doing nothing”, it is way too late.
In 2Kings 7:3-4 we read of four lepers, physically condemned by a dreadful disease, who realized the fallacy of doing nothing. And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die? 4 If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die. They were going to die anyway, why not do something? What did they have to lose? Perhaps by “doing something” their fate might not be as harsh as if they did nothing.
The New Testament, written to Christians, also shows that doing nothing is not an option available to the Christian. In James 2:17 the brother of the Lord was directed to write: Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Much has been written about faith and the entire eleventh chapter of Hebrews was dedicated, not only to faith, but the fact that every example of faith listed had “works” to go along with it. This is very important, especially in the life of a Christian. If our faith is alone and has no works – it is dead and we are spiritually dead.
As James was engaged of the Spirit to write to the brethren, he was directed to provide them an example in James 2:15-16 that has application even today. If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, 16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? These are folks that have “put on” Christ in baptism and are our brethren. If they need our help we should help them. We are so instructed in Galatians 6:9-10. These brethren in the churches of Galatia were expected to “do something”. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. 10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
This “advice” applies not only to things of a physical nature. The same application can be made to one that has not heard, or has not been given the opportunity to obey the gospel. They are not yet “in Christ” and therefore are not brothers or sisters, but what if we “do nothing” toward them? What if we fail to give them those things that are needful to their soul? What doth it profit?
We may even try to “justify” ourselves in “doing nothing” or even “doing little” in the claim that folks won’t listen. We never know the reaction folks may have toward the Word of God when it is preached or taught. In Acts 17, while at Mars Hill, Paul could have done nothing. The whole city was “given to idolatry” per vs 16. When this golden opportunity was presented to Paul, the Spirit gave him “Words” to preach and some even listened. Acts 17:32 tells us: And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will hear thee again of this matter. The final verse of the chapter says that “some clave unto him and believed”. Did not his efforts profit?
The Spirit also had Paul tell Timothy some things to “do” while they were separated by miles, and until they were united. 2Timothy 4:13; 15-16 is where this instruction is found. Much of this applies to us today as well. 13 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. (15-16) Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. This is sound advice in any age.
Does Romans 10:14-18 sound as though the Spirit had Paul teach the Christians there to “do nothing”? How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! 16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? 17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. 18 But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.
If we do nothing, we die physically, and we also will die spiritually. Don’t you think it is time to do something? Wake up! Get moving for the Lord. Call the lost to salvation and the erring to repentance through the gospel. Or. . . do nothing and die!
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
An Ode To A Good Woman
An Ode To A Good Woman
Mother’s Day is celebrated by many on this date, all over our country. No doubt there are many mother’s that deserve honor. All mothers that deserve honor are those whom we would call “good women”. While we take a moment honor our mothers, let us not forget that this day is the Lord’s Day. It is God who created woman, placed her along side of man, and gave her a great honor in that she could bear children. Then she, along with the father, are to bring those children up in the nurture and the admonition of the Lord. This was always the plan of God.
Some mothers are so, simply because they gave birth to a child. Others are mothers who “chose” children to raise because the birth mother could not – or would not face this awesome responsibility. Honor is to be given to all mothers who accept this privilege and rise to the occasion. All who do so, are surely good women.
Below is a poem, written by my Father-In-Law, approximately 35 years ago which shows he had a good understanding of God’s plan for mothers and the benefit of being the product of, and the partner to a “Good Woman”.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
An Ode To A Good Woman
I was talking to a man the other day,
Who was trying to “explain” the creation away.
His efforts to uphold the Evolution Theory,
Were quite a “bore” and made me feel weary.
He called it a theory, but to him it was fact,
And, theories never offer anything, exact.
So, I said to him, “Time about’s fair play.
I’ve listened to you, let me have my say.
God made the mountains, the hills and the trees,
The lakes and the valleys and the seven seas,
He made the morning and He made the night,
And everything He did came out just right.
The last thing He did was to make a man,
From a little ball of clay that He held in His hands.
But He saw that the man shouldn’t be alone,
So, He made him a help-mate from one of his bones.
While Adam slept, the Lord took a rib
And made the first member of women’s lib.
Now this lovely lady I will introduce,
Her name was Eve, and never was Bruce.
She was the last thing that the Good Lord made.
And the blame for all sin at her feet is laid.
But, let me ask you friend, now listen to me,
If it hadn’t been for her, where would I be?
I’d have no father, no sister or brother,
In fact, I wouldn’t even have a mother.
And who would have given the Savior birth,
When Jesus was born, to die on this earth?
Of all God made, both large and small,
If He hadn’t made a woman, He’d have ruined it all.
I know that my speech is a little long,
And, if you’d rather, I’ll sing a song.
But, first let me say, that we knobby-kneed men,
Shall never be pretty, and never have been.
The woman has the looks, the “curves” and the smiles,
That turn every head as she walks down the aisle.
If she would desire, we’d eat from her hands,
And if you have any doubts, ask a married man.
She “births” her babies and tends them with care,
And all good women are champions in prayer.
A lot of us men would have never been saved,
Had it not been for women who were strong and brave.
Well, friend, thanks so much that you listened and stayed,
But the woman’s the greatest that God ever made.
Yet, while she’s so great, the Lord in His plan,
Never made her equal or the head of the man.
Yes; God’s the creator and the woman did fall,
But if He hadn’t made her, He’d have ruined it all.”
O. D. Wilson – deceased
What Think Ye?
What Think Ye?
The capacity to think, reason, and contemplate is something God saw fit to give only to humanity. While the four-footed beasts may very well be trained, or seem to understand as owners/masters give commands and such, not one of them can reason. Whatever “selections” these animals make as situations occur will not change their state after the breath of life exits their bodies for the final time. Much of what they do in life is dictated by instinct.
This is one all-important difference between us and our “dear furry friends”. Our choices have eternal consequences. We are sometimes asked to “opine” or give our opinion on religion or various other subjects. But does our opinion ever really matter? We all have an “opinion” of ourselves, but we are cautioned in Rom 12:3 as The Spirit had Paul write that we are not to think of ourselves improperly. For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. This should help us see that the Word of God is the standard, and not our opinion or what we think.
Christ, while living on earth, used the phrase “what think ye?” to solicit a response from those whom He taught. In Matthew 21:28 He asked the people to reason as He presented a situation to get them to reveal their thinking openly after they asked Him by what authority He did things. But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard. If they had really given thought to their answer, they would have realized that what Christ had done was to expose their hypocrisy.
Unfortunately, like many today, they failed to grasp the idea the Lord was putting forth. He already knew what they thought and was aware that some of the Jewish leaders would rely on their own thinking about Him as they had done regarding the baptism of John, and as they were doing in regard to the Law of Moses. While speaking with the Pharisees in Matthew 22:41-42, Jesus used the same phrase “what think ye?” to put an end to the myriad of questions being asked which were designed to trick or ensnare the Lord in His Words. While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, 42 Saying, What think ye of Christ? whose son is he? They say unto him, The Son of David. He asked them what they thought about the messiah. After their response, and a follow-up question by Jesus, vs 46 tells that none could answer and from that day the questions ceased. And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask him any more questions.
As our thoughts come from inside, they reveal how we feel or understand a situation. Often these thoughts are converted to words to express our desires in regard to that being contemplated. In Matthew chapter 26 following the arrest of the Lord, He was being interrogated by the council, the chief priests and the elders. False witnesses were sought against Jesus so He could be put to death. Initially none were found, but at last some were found who repeated something Jesus had indeed said, but “twisted” what He had said to make it an accusation, to suit the desires of the Jewish authorities. When Christ made no response, the high priest asked Him directly if He claimed to be the Son of God. Christ’s answer in Matthew 24:64 caused quite a stir. Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. He was speaking of His authority.
The response of the Lord here elicited a demonstration from the chief priest that swayed the council to bring formal charges. The priest tore at his clothes and leveled the charge of blasphemy against the Lord, a charge which under the Law was punishable by death. The chief priest then sought affirmation by the council. We read this in verse 66. What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death. Oh, the indignities heaped upon our Lord, the Son of God by that council! The things done to Jesus were not even permitted by the Law of Moses. The chief priest had gotten the council to “think” like he did and now they thought their desire to put an end to Jesus and His teaching would come to fruition.
What they could not know was that even death would not put and end to Jesus or His teaching. Previously in Matthew 16:13-15 Jesus had asked His disciples whom did man say He was and then asked the disciples (apostles elect) whom they said He was. In verse 16 we read of the response of Peter, which the Lord stated in verse 17 had been revealed by God. Then in verse 18 Jesus proclaimed death would not “end” Him, but following His death the long-awaited kingdom (the church) would come. And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Then in Matthew 28:18-20 following Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection, He met with the eleven, told them of His authority, and commanded them to teach and observe all He had taught them. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Now, the question for you is: “What think ye” of Jesus? Will you submit to His authority and be obedient to the gospel and then live for Him faithfully until death? Remember, your choices have eternal consequences.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Disciples Indeed?
Disciples Indeed?
When Jesus went about speaking and teaching, He made disciples. This means that there were many who believed in Him as well as many who decided to follow Him. There are 30 or so passages that reference folks who followed Jesus. Some did so because of the miracles, some for other reasons. Some did so because they heard Jesus and accepted His message. These followers became His disciples. Some were affected in other ways in what Jesus said and how He said it. We read about this in John 7:45-46 when officers were sent to arrest Jesus, but could not. Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why have ye not brought him? 46 The officers answered, Never man spake like this man. These officers did not become disciples of the Lord, even though they were affected by His Words.
The difference between these folks and His disciples per John 8:31 is explained by Jesus while speaking to some who believed on Him. Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; Then He told them in the next verse what benefit this would provide for them. John 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. Notice that “continuing therein” is a condition given by Jesus whereby those who became His disciples could remain so. This is how one is a “disciple indeed”. This means reading, studying and living that Word. We read of this not only in John 8:31 (above), but also after the church was established the Spirit had Paul write in 1Timothy 4:15-16 to Timothy. He had become a disciple by obeying and following the Word of God. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. He could only be a “disciple indeed” if he kept following and remained obedient to the Word. The same is true for us even today.
There are those who begin being disciples and then fail to continue. Why is this? These surely are not “disciples indeed”. When one questions what the Lord said, or what He had delivered to us through His Word, or begins to choose which Commandments to follow, can they continue to be disciples? Jesus experienced this while He was still on earth. In John 6:60 after hearing Words of Jesus that offended them, some began to question if they could remain His disciples, not considering the “spiritual” application of which Jesus spoke. Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? Note also that when people begin to question the Word, this is when their discipleship begins to become unstable.
We read that even after the explanation Jesus offered, many still could not see that He was speaking of the spiritual nature of His kingdom. In John 6:63-65 He again told them that which was given by the Father (the Word) was what would make (and keep) them disciples. It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. 64 But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. 65 And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. It is only through the Word that one can find the formula for being a disciple. The Word is what calls us to Christ as we read in 2Thessalonians 2:14. Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. But alas, in John 6:66 we see that some could not remain “disciples indeed”. From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.
Then, as we read on through John 6:67, we find the question that Jesus asked of His closest disciples in that day, and that all disciples need to ask themselves. Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? As this is being pondered, we should always consider the inspired response of Simon Peter which is found in vss 68-69. Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. 69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. The fact that Christ is God’s Son is the very beginning of becoming a disciple indeed. But, it takes more than just believing that Jesus is the Christ. Jesus Himself addressed this in Mark 16:15-16 when He taught the eleven after His resurrection. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
When we read of another account of the Great Commission, we find that the Lord, in Matthew 28:18-20, told the eleven what “disciples indeed” were to do after the Lord returned to His Father and the promised Comforter came. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Go, teach the truth, baptize, and teach is what disciples indeed will do. Living according to the Word of God makes one a disciple indeed. Is that what you are doing as a disciple?
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
In The Fullness of Time
In the Fullness of Time
It is certain that none of us like to wait. Our society has been so indoctrinated with all things instant that many have seemingly lost the art of waiting. Impatience is evident in nearly all aspects of life. But have we ever considered that waiting has always been included in God’s plan? (Isaiah 40:31)
It is obvious from Genesis 1:4 that God did not intend that everything happen at the same time. If God did not intend that man abide within the constraints of time, why did He divide the day from the night, and create time and its divisions? And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
Cain had to wait for the harvest before he could offer his offering unto the Lord. We can see this from Genesis 4:3-5, as well as the fact that Cain’s offering was not accepted. And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD. 4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: 5 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell.
God had a plan for humanity from before the foundation of the world. That plan included the sending of His Son. God chose a people through Abraham. Even Abraham had to wait for the child of Promise. Genesis 17:17 shows that he and Sarah had to wait for God’s timeframe for this to happen. Then Abraham fell upon his face, and laughed, and said in his heart, Shall a child be born unto him that is an hundred years old? and shall Sarah, that is ninety years old, bear? In the “fullness of God’s time” God’s promise was fulfilled.
We also know from 1Peter 1:18-20, God’s plan for humanity was in place from before the creation. Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, Man had to wait until redemption was available till he could be a beneficiary of the plan.
The question now is: “Why are not more people obedient to the gospel?” One no longer has to wait. The gospel plan is now in place. The “fullness of time” has arrived and one can now be saved. In Galatians 4:4 we see that when the time was right, God sent His Son to fulfill God’s plan to save those who will obey the gospel plan. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,. When Christ had died on the cross, had been buried and arose, He ascended to the Father. Shortly after that the final plan of God was offered to man. We are told in Romans 13:11 that it is now “high time” to awake out of sleep, and be faithful to God. This is even apparent in verse 12. And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. 12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
Mankind, now only has one thing for which to wait, and that is the second coming of Christ, and following this will be the judgment. The judgment will also happen in accordance to God’s timeframe. When Jesus spoke in Matthew 24:36 the times of the events of which He spake were only known by the Father. But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
The other thing we need to address is the fact that we don’t know how much time we have remaining. Job 14:1 is one passage that speaks of the brevity of life. Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble. As we look to James 4:14 in the New Testament, we are again reminded that our time here is not guaranteed. Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. Ecclesiastes 3:1 is very clear in that there is a time for all things. To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: Now, since we see that salvation is available and we don’t know how much time we have remaining, why not seek salvation now? Paul was directed by the Spirit in 2Corinthians 6:2 to tell those brethren that the “fullness of time” for salvation is now. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) Why wait? Now is the fullness of time.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
How Can Any Doubt the Promises of God?
How Can Any Doubt the Promises of God?
One needs only look to the third chapter of Genesis to read the promise God made to the man and woman He created and placed in the Garden. It is quite interesting that God had provided them with all they needed, as well as the choice of obedience or disobedience and the penalty for not being obedient. Temptation was offered by the serpent – the manifestation of Satan. In Genesis 3:1-4 we read of this first promise of God to man, and the lie that caused the woman to doubt. Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? 2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: 3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. 4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: Because of their sin, they were separated from God; exiled from the Garden. This separation from God is “spiritual” death.
The first time the word “promise” is used in the KJV is Numbers 14:34 and is God’s punishment to His people Israel for murmuring when God had been so gracious to them. After the number of the days in which ye searched the land, even forty days, each day for a year, shall ye bear your iniquities, even forty years, and ye shall know my breach of promise. He had freed them from Egyptian bondage. He had showed them the Promised Land through the twelve spies. Yet, because of the “doubt” of ten of the spies, Israel refused to believe in God’s Promise and His Power to deliver the inhabitants into their hands so they could possess the land and live for God. From this we should see that God’s Promises have positive and negative aspects. If one follows God and His Word, positive results occur, but if not, God’s wrath is promised.
The “promise” of God in the N.T. age was first declared in the book of Acts. We know that the Jews in Jerusalem on Pentecost, AD 33 were told in Acts 2:39 that the “promise” of God was going to be offered to all humanity, the Jews having the honor to receive it first. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. Many are confused as to what this promise is. 1John 2:25 tells us what God has promised to all who follow His Word. And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. None would deny that this is a promise with a positive outcome.
God has also told us in His Word we can be recipients of this promise. The Spirit had the apostle Paul write in 2Thessalonians 2:14 how we are “called” to become beneficiaries of this wonderful promise. Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. However, He has also warned us previously in this same letter, the failure to “answer” that call will result in a devasting outcome. 2Thessalonians 1:8-9 is where this is found. 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; I don’t know of anyone that willingly wishes to be a recipient of this promise of God.
We must be aware if any of God’s promises are true, they all are. All of God’s Commandments are also true. This means that all God’s Promises in the N.T. age apply to us as well. We cannot “pick and choose” which commandments we can follow. But we do have the option to choose which promises of God we will receive. It is likely those who doubt the promises of God do so because they don’t know the commandments of God. In Titus 1:2-3 we see how God made His promises known to mankind. This is also how the Commandments are made known. In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; 3 But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;
These N.T. Commandments and Promises of God are given so we can be informed what God has provided for those who will become His children and what is in store for us, if we will be obedient and faithful to Him. Just because we have been obedient does not guarantee us a home in heaven. Continued fidelity in this life is required. In 2Corinthians 5:10 we are told that we must be judged for how we’ve lived this life. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Where does this leave those outside of the body of Christ? 1Peter 4:17 provides this answer. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? Those who doubt the promises and ignore the Commandments of God will be lost. Can you afford to doubt it?
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
