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A Life Or Death Situation
A Life Or Death Situation
Often when folks speak of life or death circumstances, they consider if the situation will cost someone their physical lives. At times, due to medical issues, a person may be required to make a life or death decision. This may be whether or not to participate in a treatment or take certain medications. It is also possible that some ‘professionals’ offer an estimation on how long a person ‘might’ live with or without said care.
Of course, that is a wild guess at best. I have known those who have been diagnosed and were told: “Go home and get your affairs in order, you only have about a year or so to live” by those who were respected as being in the know. Strangely, on several occasions, the “condemned one” failed to expire until long after the prescribed period without the treatment.
It has long been known that people die. In Eccl. 3:19 this is confirmed by the Spirit through the pen of Solomon. He wrote: For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity. The ‘life force’ that is within all living beings is subject to being extinguished.
Eccl. 9:11-12 verifies this, and it applies to all. I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all. 12 For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them. From a physical standpoint then, life itself is a death situation. This is why all need to understand that it is what we do with this physical life that is of most importance because it is in this life only when we prepare for eternity. Our time on this earth is truly when we determine our eternal destination – Life or Death.
This is confirmed in Eccl. 9:10 as all the things ‘of this life’ have ceased once we pass that threshold. 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. This means that even though everyone is going to die, time on this earth is precious and it needs to be used carefully. It is only in this live we can do for others. In Jas. 2:15-16 as faith is being discussed, the Spirit had James write: “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?” The provisions for the body are important because according to Jas. 2:26, it houses the soul until the spirit of life departs the body. For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
In Matt. 6:25 Christ told those gathered to hear Him preach the Sermon on the Mount: Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Surely He wasn’t telling them life wasn’t important. Neither was this Christ’s message as He spoke to His apostles in Matt.10:28 saying - And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. One who can only ‘kill the body’ is very limited in that all they can do is ‘take a physical life’. The soul continues and this is the ‘life’ that matters.
A life or death situation is pointed out in Rom. 8:13 as the Spirit had Paul write to the church in Rome. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. Surely he wasn’t addressing physical life or death, as we are all going to die. From the context this is abundantly clear. Verse 12 acknowledges this. Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. Then, verse 14 drives the point home. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
To be ‘led by the Spirit of God’ is to be directed by the Word of God. To reject or neglect God’s Word is to die spiritually. Gen. 2:17 provides this as God Commanded the man He placed in the Garden - But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. We know the body of Adam (or Eve) did not cease to function. Life or death was put before them and they chose death. We also know the ‘signs’ Jesus did was to draw folks to life. We read in John 20:31 that the signs were recorded that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. Of course “believe” here carries with it the idea of obedience.
Rom. 1:17b & Heb. 10:38a both tell us how to live spiritually – the just shall live by faith. And Rom. 10:17 tells us faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Just as Moses of old in Deut. 30:19 set before Israel “life and death” and implored them to choose life, so must we. Our time on earth is truly a “Life or Death Situation” – eternal life which is only “in Christ” – or eternal separation from God, (spiritual death) in everlasting torment. Choose now while you can – Obey the gospel and become a child of God, and then live your life so that you need not eternally die, but live forever with God on high.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Playing Church?
Playing Church?
It is possible that as children we had been taken to a worship service somewhere and during the following week, played church. Recently, Linda and I were talking about this, and she recalled how she and her siblings ‘played church’ on the stairs when they were much younger as one of the boys led singing, one ‘preached’, and the remainder of the kids made up the congregation. It is apparent that the parents were ‘so involved’ in the work of the church and God’s Word was in their lives, that their children ‘played church’ often.
While the ‘playing church’ of the youth shows what these young folk were exposed to, there is a much more serious ‘playing church’ that is happening today among many adults. How serious are we about service to God? How often do we consult His Word to see when, how, what frequency, and what elements are to be a part of our worship to Him to be acceptable to Him?
Many of the youth who “played church” in the past, did so by following what they heard and perceived as they “went to church”. I’m afraid there are many adults ‘playing church’ today without realizing the ramifications. This is not such a new thing as some would suspect given the relaxed attitude many have toward God and His Word today. Through the years, this attitude has been held by some and it was recognized by others.
This is why faithful brethren, upon realizing this, have endeavored to warn the masses of such a harmful attitude and action. In 1968, my wife’s father, O.D. Wilson, wrote a song regarding this. His hope, and the hope of all the faithful is that others stop “playing church” and get serious about their own souls and the work of the church laid out in the Word. Has it ever occurred to you that countless souls will enter eternity with false hope, not knowing that “playing church” throughout their lives has left them woefully unprepared to be with God for eternity? Some are the “hypocrites in the church”. They need to be warned and need to take heed.
Hypocrites In The Church
(1)
Just got home from church, hadn’t been for a while.
but I did have a wonderful time.
The members were friendly, each gave me a smile
and the preacher’s sermon was fine.
They spread the Lord’s Table, and graced it with prayer,
there’s no doubt the Savior was near.
Then I wondered why such a small crowd was there,
and these words rang out in my ears.
Refrain
Hypocrites in the church who just won’t live right,
God’s love is not in their hearts.
They care not that sinners are lost in the night,
they’re really just acting a part.
Recitation
Then I saw myself as others see me
and I prayed Oh Lord please forgive,
Help me to be faithful that others might see
Jesus Christ in the life that I live.
(2)
You may ask this question, I’m sure that you could,
Just why is the Lord’s church so small?
If all of us members would live true and good,
It wouldn’t be that way at all.
So brothers and sisters give your heart a search,
And by the Lord’s Spirit be led.
It’s the things that we do that speak for the church,
So don’t ever let it be said . . .
Refrain/Recitation
O.D. Wilson deceased
Several passages spring to mind as I write this. Matt. 6:33 is one. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Another is 2Cor. 6:17. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,. Yet another is Heb. 10:24-25a. The faithful will be in the assembly physically, mentally and spiritually. To forsake the assembly and claim ‘faithfulness’ is hypocritical in spades. And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another:
Do we see ourselves as others see us? Do we want to? Do we simply “act a part” and “play church”? Is the “examine yourselves” of 2Cor. 13:5 only for others? When that self-examination is made, do we seek strength from God’s Holy Word? Do we pray for the “wisdom from above” (Jas. 1:5 & Jas. 3:17) as we seek that strength? Our time on earth is a spiritual life or death battle. If we “play church”, we are going to lose eternally. We need to get serious about our souls. Think about it!
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Hope For tomorrow
Hope For Tomorrow
As we live our lives, we all come to expect ‘tomorrow’. This is supported by the many times people say: “See you tomorrow”, or something like this. We are often asked to think of the future. When I worked in the corporate world I was once asked, “Where do you see yourself in five years, ten years?” When this was asked, my initial response was “I have no idea”. The purpose of the question was to gauge my desire to advance, and to see if I would take the steps and put forth the effort to achieve those goals.
All this expectation was predicated on the idea and the hope that there would even be a tomorrow for me or for those with whom I interacted. This is a bit presumptuous as none on earth know their future. We are reminded of this in Jas. 4:13-15. This passage certainly points out that life is brief even though it might last many years. Time has existed since God put it into place about six thousand or so years ago. What is seventy, eighty or even a hundred years in comparison? That’s right – “It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.”
This doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t make plans for ‘tomorrow’. We read this in verse 15. “For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.”. Many misread this passage and try to make it state that if it is God’s Will, we will do ‘this or that’. What is actually being said is that if the Lord tarries His coming (2Pet. 3:9b-10) and the earth remains, I plan to do “this or that”. Also God and His Word should never be left out of our plans. The point is two-fold. The first fact is we are going to die. This is made abundantly clear in Eccl. 12:7. When the spirit leaves the body, (death per Jas. 2:26), the body decays and returns to the dust from which the original body God formed came. Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. We can’t control ‘how long’ our life will be, but we can make plans for the tomorrows we have, including our eternal tomorrow. Get prepared! Stay prepared!
The second fact is that any plans we make for earthly tomorrows or the “eternal tomorrow” must be addressed before we die on this earth. All that is possible to do must be done in this life per Eccl. 9:10. 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. One cannot make plans for the afterlife, after this life. When this life on earth is over, it is much too late to prepare. Failure to plan now for eternity with God is to plan for an eternity separated from Him. I’m relatively sure that this is not an eternal tomorrow anyone wants!
So, what is our hope for tomorrow? What is important for tomorrow? It has to be that which beyond this life. As we pointed out earlier, life is short and may very well end for us this day. Is our hope contained in this life alone? If so, according to 1Cor. 15:19, we have a sad and melancholy life. There, the Spirit had the apostle write: If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. This must mean that there is the possibility of something beyond the grave. Since our life could end today, should not our hope for tomorrow really be a hope for eternity? Is this not what our minds should be focused on?
Sadly, most fail to make adequate plans for eternity because they are so engrossed in seeking pleasures in this life and involve themselves with the cares of this world. There’s nothing wrong with wholesome activities that bring pleasure, and there are certain “cares” in this world for which we have responsibility. But God has provided for these and yet, they are not to be the whole focus or function of our time here. In Mark 4:19 in the parable of the sower, Jesus explains how these things, if made our priority, prevents the Word from directing us properly. He said: And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.
In 2Tim. 2:3-4 after the church was established, the Spirit had Paul warn about becoming so concerned with the things of life that one couldn’t fight the good fight of faith which they committed to when they obeyed the gospel and became a soldier of the cross. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 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. This means we cannot be pleasing to God if we put the things of this life before God. Are the things of this life more important than our hope for earth’s tomorrows or for our eternity?
All of what God has provided for us in His Word is for our good and given so we might prepare for that which is beyond this life. In Rom.15:4 we find this requires that we read, learn, know and continually follow God’s N.T. Word. For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. This is also supported in Col. 1:5-6a. For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; 6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; This hope cannot be realized until one obeys the gospel and is “born” into the family of God. This is how you get ready. To stay ready – you must remain faithful to God and His Word from that point to the time you pass from this life.
If you’ve not obeyed the gospel, hope that you have a tomorrow on earth so you can obey before its everlastingly too late.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Don't Waste Your Time
Don’t Waste Your Time
In what way do we spend our time? That, in fact, depends on the person and what they believe. There are also other factors that determine how we spend our days on the earth. Often, we depend on information derived from others as we decide what to do, or what to wear each day. One of the things many regularly consult is the weather forecast. We check the T.V. or the almanac to see if the weather requires a certain type of clothes, etc.
Often it is the case that planned activities have to be altered despite the predictions of the meteorologists. If we fail to ‘check out’ the expected conditions, we are likely to discover that we cannot participate in what we desired to do, albeit it too late. Many a picnic has been disrupted because folks didn’t check to see if it was going to rain. When such happens, our time can’t be used that way and seems to be wasted.
Much of the 3rd chapter of Ecclesiastes is devoted to “time” and all that one can do with whatever time they have on the earth. It is also a fact that “time” will run out for everyone as Eccl. 9:12 clearly declares. For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them. From this, and many other verses in the word of God, we should learn not to waste or squander whatever time we are granted.
The Spirit had the psalmist in Psa. 90:12, write to instruct how we ought to occupy our time on earth. So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. We also find the inspired Words penned by the wise man in Prov. 2:1-2. My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; 2 So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; It is clear that the seeking of wisdom and understanding from God are not a waste of time. When we depart, wisdom and knowledge we gain from the world will be left behind.
Therefore, one must seek that which is of the most benefit to them and to those whom they love. Prov. 2:4-7 identifies what is of most importance, how diligently we must search for it, and how it benefits us. If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; 5 Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. 6 For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. 7 He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly. Furthermore, not wasting time here on earth while seeking God through His Word and living in full accordance with it, yields everlasting benefits.
We receive this counsel from the Word of God, as well as from books and stories. We have often gleaned this from the pens of poets as well. One of my favorite ‘poets’ is my wife’s late father, O.D. Wilson, who was also a faithful gospel preacher. Much of his poetry teaches the principles of life which we find in God’s Word. Below is one of these poems. It also bears the name of this article.
Don’t Waste Your Time
1
Life is like a flower in the Springtime,
Budding and blooming in the breeze.
Don’t crush its beauty but always be kind,
Do a good deed, always try to please.
2
Life is like a vapor, spreading o’er the valley.
In a short time it goes away.
So temporary, it is gone tomorrow,
Make the right use of it while it’s today.
3
Life is like a storm-cloud with a booming thunder,
There’s lightning and hail and heavy rain.
Soon it will pass, no need to wonder,
For we know the sun will shine again.
4
Life is like a journey; it has an ending,
We carefully chart the course our way to find.
Our footprints we leave, our message we are sending,
To those who follow us, not far behind.
5
Then don’t waste your time; its use confine
Not for yourself alone, this resign.
Walk with God, in perfect peace of mind’
Helping the lost, the way to find.
O. D. Wilson – deceased
Our time is perhaps our second most precious commodity. Our soul is the most important thing we have. Why not use that which is temporary to address the needs of that which is permanent? Obey God’s Word now while you have time, and prepare properly for eternity.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Can I Tell You Something?
Can I Tell You Something?
Usually, when someone approaches another with the title of this article on their lips, they have a desire to reveal a secret, or to “share” a nugget of information they wish impart. That which I want to tell you is not a secret, yet, many don’t know it. Many are blinded by what others tell them about Christ, His purpose for coming to earth to die, and the benefit that it brings to all who will follow only His plan as outlined in the New Testament.
There was a time when the “thing” I want to tell you was a mystery. When Christ was on earth, He often spoke in parables to the people. His apostles asked Him about the parable of the sower. Speaking directly to the apostles, in Mark 4:11, His answer was: “Unto you (apostles) it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:” Right then, it was not proper time to reveal the mystery to all the people. In Rom. 16:25 we are informed that the mystery had been “kept secret since the world began”.
However, Christ intended that at the appropriate time, all were to know the gospel message and He would reveal the proper time. In Matt. 28:18, after He rose from the dead, Christ appeared to His apostles, and told them He was given all authority. His first Commandment to them then is found in vss 19-20. He told them “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.”
In Acts 1:4 we find the Lord’s last Commandment to His apostles before His ascension to His Father. He told them to “not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.” And the reason for this is given in vs 5. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. Of course, they tarried there, just as the Lord Commanded.
This promise to the apostles was fulfilled in the second chapter of Acts when the twelve were baptized with the Holy Ghost, and according to vs 4, they were “filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, (languages) as the Spirit gave them utterance.” This ensured that the message of the mystery was delivered without error and was not the words of the apostles, but the communication of the Holy Spirit. Christ had told them this would occur in Jno.16:13. He said: Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. The “things to come” of which Christ then spoke, was the church. It came on the day of Pentecost, A.D. 33. This is the “nugget” of information I wish to pass on.
The message is freely available to all, yet again, so many do not know it. We find the Words of the Spirit, given to Paul in Eph. 3:3-6 that shows how he received it and how we can know it, and how all should benefit from it. How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, 4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) 5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; 6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:
From the time the Spirit disclosed the gospel message of God’s Saving Grace at Pentecost and announced the church for which Jesus died, it was no longer a secret or a mystery because it had now been revealed. But at the first it only went to a limited amount of people. Acts 2:5 shows that the gospel was first preached only to the Jews. They were the people of God under the O.T. Covenant. It was only fitting they had the first opportunity to hear and obey as the apostles followed Jesus Command to preach it. We are told in Acts 2:41, that after hearing the gospel, “about three thousand” gladly received the Word, and having repented, were baptized (immersed in water, “into Christ”), for the remission of sins, and were therefore “added” to the church (Acts 2:47).
Several years later, in accordance with God’s plan for Salvation, the Word was also taken to the Gentiles. This occurred in Acts 10, but as the Peter retold of the events that took place in Cornelius’ house, Luke, by inspiration was given this we have in Acts 11:13-14 to write down. “And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; 14 Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.” We are told in Acts 10:48a after they heard the ‘words’, what they were to do. And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord.
Sadly, many refuse to “read God’s Word” so they might fully understand His plan and obey it as God would have them do. It is now available to all. This is why I ask: “Can I Tell You Something?” I want to tell all of God’s Gospel plan of Salvation and how important it is to apply it in their lives before it is everlastingly too late. However, I don’t want to use ‘my words’, but God’s. Rom. 1:16 tells us the gospel of Christ “. . . is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth . . .” If you believe this, why won’t you obey what God is Commanding in His N.T. Word rather that what man teaches? To follow anything else but God’s plan is to be lost.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Pardon, Your Faith Is Showing
Pardon, Your Faith Is Showing
Faith is a much misunderstood subject. Folks are often heard speaking of “their faith” while believing pretty much anything and everything. Faith, by definition is: complete trust or confidence in someone or something: One who “has faith” has complete trust or confidence in what they believe. The problem is that not everyone ‘believes’ the same things. This is not a bit surprising as there are many different beliefs. In the context of religion, faith is belief in God or in the doctrines or teachings of religion. Therein lies the problem. ‘Religion’ per se, provides many different teachings, and not all the teaching that is offered is from God.
Because of the foreknowledge of God, the Spirit had John pen the Words of warning to the church found in 1Jno 4:1. He wrote: Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. As these ‘false prophets’ go out into the world, they are spreading man’s doctrine, and teaching things contrary to God’s Word. If these doctrines are believed and followed, they becomes one’s faith. Then, they offer worship in accordance with what they believe. When this is considered in light of Matt. 15:9, it shouldn’t be hard to see where this leads. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. A faith that is built on false doctrine is a faith that leads to destruction.
But how does one know what a person believes or if their faith is sound? Trying the ‘spirits’ is one way. But not everyone is a teacher in the traditional sense of publicly teaching or ‘leading’ a class. However, Jesus identified the means by which we can know a person’s ‘faith’. In Matt. 7:20 He said: Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. In other words, what a person does indicates what they believe. Incidentally, in context, Jesus was warning against false prophets (teachers). These were deceptive as they wore “sheep’s clothing”, but inwardly were “ravening wolves”.
This was not only true in Christ’s time and in ours, but also existed in the days when God sent prophets to warn Israel to turn back to Him. Some came and prophesied that Israel would not go into bondage. Jer. 27:14-15 provides the Words of the Spirit given to one of God’s prophets to deliver to Israel. Therefore hearken not unto the words of the prophets that speak unto you, saying, Ye shall not serve the king of Babylon: for they prophesy a lie unto you.15 For I have not sent them, saith the LORD, yet they prophesy a lie in my name; that I might drive you out, and that ye might perish, ye, and the prophets that prophesy unto you. Notice what following a false prophecy or false teaching produces. Those who follow false teaching will develop a false faith, and will perish.
A faith which cannot be seen is not faith. We know from Heb. 11:1 what faith is. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. The entirety of Hebrews chapter 11 provides ‘evidence’ of the faith of many and the “deeds” these folks did to show their faith. In Heb 11:6 we read: “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Not only must one have faith; they must also live so that others see it. The “fruits” of one’s life is what others see and by what they are known.
One’s faith must be made known so others can see it. Faith is not a ‘feeling’. Neither feelings nor faith can be seen. Only actions can be shown, and actions are the result of what a person believes. This is clearly seen from Jas. 2:14 to the end of the chapter. Within the last thirteen verses of James chapter two, faith occurs eleven times. In verse 18 we learn that one’s faith is shown by his works. In verse 20, ‘faith without works is dead’, and in verse 22, it is by works that faith is perfected. We also know from verse 24 that a man can be justified, but “not by faith only”.
All should realize how important faith is. In Rom. 1:17 we learn that “the just shall live by faith”. From Rom. 5:1-2 we can also read of the significance of faith. Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.Then, from Rom.10:17 we learned where true faith originates. So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Why then do so many believe (have faith in) so many different things? I think the answer is obvious. It is because so many are listening to, believing, and following ‘man’s teaching’ rather than the Word of God. 2Pet. 2:1 tells us what was happening then (and what’s happening now). But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. Then, we see from 2Pet. 2:2 what results. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. As folks ‘believe’ these false teachers, they develop and show faith in their teaching.
Why not go to the source of true faith? Why not follow the Word of God? When whatever you believe is seen by others, your faith is showing. If your faith is not based on God’s Word, destruction is your fate. Do as God directs in His Word today. Then make sure your faith is showing as you lead others to the Lord through His Word.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Recalculating . . . .
Recaulculating . . .
Most newer automobiles come equipped with some sort of GPS system as part of the basic vehicle package. Most who drive have utilized these at one time or another. GPS stands for “Global Positioning System, and as I understand it, works for everyone. The following is from Wikipedia and may help us understand it a little better. The Global Positioning System (GPS), originally Navstar GPS, is a satellite-based radio navigation system owned by the United States government and operated by the United States Space Force. It is one of the global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) that provide geolocation and time information to a GPS receiver anywhere on or near the Earth where there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more GPS satellites. It does not require the user to transmit any data, and operates independently of any telephonic or Internet reception, though these technologies can enhance the usefulness of the GPS positioning information. It provides critical positioning capabilities to military, civil, and commercial users around the world. Although the United States government created, controls and maintains the GPS system, it is freely accessible to anyone with a GPS receiver.
This is quite a bit of information but shows that quite a bit of technology is utilized to keep a user ‘on track’. Some GPS units will say (or show) the word “RECALCULATING” when a user starts to deviate from the prescribed pathway to reach a desired destination. The individual ‘user’ must decide if they will follow the directions or “take a chance” at where they will end up. Sadly, many refuse the instructions of such a machine that has access to so much more data than they, and then will blame the device through which information is provided. Is it the fault of the “architects”, builders, or the “tech” of GPS if we get lost? Were the direction(s) faulty, or does the blame lie with the rejection or the ‘misuse’ of the information that is provided? When one’s location and destination is known, the route becomes certain.
Now, what has any of this to do with “spiritual” matters? The Bible has often been referred to as “God’s Road Map to heaven”. Many a sermon has been built and delivered to ‘re-direct’ those who were astray, or to instruct the lost how to be saved. In 1Pet. 4:11, in the context of spiritual gifts, the Spirit had Peter pen: If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. This means that the “words” spoken were to be as if God Himself was delivering the message. Indeed, He was as the Spirit is God. In Mark 13:11b Christ told His apostles that the Spirit would provide them what to say. . . . take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost.
Additionally, the “message” is without flaw. Originally, as in Acts 2:42 Salvation’s message was unerringly delivered by the apostles, and heard in every language on the Day of Pentecost “as the Spirit gave them utterance.”. In John 16:13 Christ promised the apostles the Spirit would “guide you into all truth”. In John 14:26 Christ’s promise to them was that the Holy Ghost would “teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”. This method, and all the “spiritual gifts” was temporary because it was utilized in the absence of the written Word.
In 1Cor. 13:8-9 the Spirit had Paul explain that at that time they were in possession of ‘some of the Word, and some spiritual gifts’. Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. Then in vs 10, we read that when the ‘completed’ Word is available, the “gifts” would no longer be necessary and would be taken away. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. The same Spirit had James call Gods’ Word the “perfect law of liberty” in Jas. 1:25, and “whoso looketh” (continually looks into) and then “continueth therein” (constantly follows) it is to be blessed. This can only be interpreted that they in so doing, will successfully arrive at the desired location – (heaven).
God’s Word has always been the “guide”. Parts of it were written to His people Israel while His Covenant with them was in effect. Sadly, many failed to follow. In Jer. 6:16 when God’s people Israel were admonished to “Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls.”. When they refused the inspired “recalculation” required of them they said: “ We will not walk therein.” The Hebrew Christians, in Heb 2:3, were asked: “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; ”? They were being asked if they expected to arrive at the desired destination (salvation) while not following the inspired GPS (N.T. plan of Salvation).
Why won’t you look into God’s Word today and see what recalculation you need to make to be on the right path to heaven? Unlike GPS systems on earth, God has only one path to heaven and it’s the same route for everyone. Get on the right path, faithfully follow God’s GPS – His Written Word – before it’s too late for you. After your life on earth ends, there’s no place to turn around.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
It's About Time!
It’s About Time!
Most of our country today is dealing with ‘time’. Forty eight of the fifty states in our nation recognize and utilize ‘Daylight Savings Time’. Hawaii and Arizona have chosen not to participate. This does not mean that the fine citizens of these states are unconcerned with time. Time has an effect upon all. We are all ‘subject’ to time. In Job 14:1, we see the observation of this suffering servant. He said: Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble. Although we may live 70, 80 or more years, none of us are going to live forever. Neither are we going to live a life without a certain amount of difficulty.
The Spirit had the ‘wise man’ in Eccl. 3:1, inform that there is a “season” for everything and a “time to every purpose under the heaven”. As we read seven verses that follow, we see that every aspect of life is addressed, and the word “time” has twenty eight occurrences. One cannot read these verses without realizing that time is indeed important. We also should be acutely aware that our ‘time’ is limited on earth. Psa. 90:10 is one of many verses of the Old Testament supporting this. The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.
From the New Testament, we see in Jas. 4:14 that our sojourn here only lasts a “little time”. 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. Because all will only spend a limited period on the earth, it is imperative that we use our brief stint here properly. Eccl 9:10 tells us: 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. While we live, doesn’t it make perfect sense that we attend to the things of life that matter beyond this life? I think it does.
But what are these things that matter beyond this life? While they cannot be the things ‘of this life’, they must be attended to ‘in this life’ as we saw in the previous verse. These things also cannot be the ‘things of the world’ as 1Jno. 2:15-17 clearly shows and also shows why. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. The things of this life and the things of this world cease to be our concern as soon as we leave this life.
A favorite hymn for many, Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand, conveys the message of life and how we are to spend our ‘time’ on earth. Our hymnal only has three verses, but I will provide the words of all four, as they provide insight to every aspect of life including what lies beyond for the obedient and the faithful.
Time is filled with swift transition.
Naught of earth unmoved can stand.
Build your hopes on things eternal.
Hold to God’s unchanging hand.
Trust in Him who will not leave you.
Whatsoever years may bring.
If by earthly friends forsaken,
Still more closely to Him cling.
Covet not this world’s vain riches
That so rapidly decay.
Seek to gain the heav’nly treasures.
They will never pass away.
When your journey is completed,
If to God you have been true,
Fair and bright the home in Glory
Your enraptured soul will view.
Refrain:
Hold to God’s unchanging hand.
Hold to God’s unchanging hand.
Build your hopes on things eternal.
Hold to God’s unchanging hand.
The phrase “it’s about time” is often used when a person finally does that which should have already been done. Many have heard the gospel, yet fail to obey. Christians are to continue in obedience always as the Spirit had Paul write: Redeeming the time, because the days are evil (Eph 5:16) Even Saul (Paul) had to be reminded that time was short after he had heard the gospel and knew his soul’s true condition. In Acts 22:16 he was told: “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” What about you? It’s about time! It may soon be too late. Another phrase also fits – “Time’s a wastin.”
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Which Church?
Which Church?
To the best of my knowledge there is not a city, town, or municipality in this country in which there’s not a church building, or where a church meets. This is stated in this way because there is a huge difference between the church building and the church. It seems that the children’s little exercise in which they interlace their fingers inward, fold their hands, and bring the index fingers to a peak even confuses the two. They say: “Here’s the church; here’s the steeple; open the door (as they unfold their hands with fingers still interlocked), and here’s the people”.
Today, there are many churches. This is evidenced as those, seeking to determine other’s ‘religious preferences’, ask a series of questions such as: “Do you go to church?” If the reply is “yes”, they usually follow with: “Which one?”. It is also readily apparent upon driving through a city, town or municipality while noticing the huge differences in the ‘names’ that are associated with the various structures in which these people meet to carry out whatever religious services they endorse and follow.
How sad it is that folks rarely, if ever, consult God and His Word in their search for a church. Almighty God, in His infinite wisdom and foreknowledge has simplified things for man if man would only read and follow. Peter and John were being ‘grilled’ by the Sadducees for preaching “through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.” In Acts 4:7 the council asked: “By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?” Acts 4:12 gives us the inspired response the Holy Spirit provided Peter, and which should guide our search for “church”. He said: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” In verse 10 we see this is speaking of Christ, whom they (the Jews) had crucified and Whom God raised from the dead. Should we not search “which church” by the authority of Christ?
Christ has not authorized any other name. Why then are there so many ‘churches’ that bear the names of men? From Acts 2:21 (when the church was established) to 1John 5:13, penned approximately 55 years afterward, there are about 37 references to “the name of” the Lord, or Christ, or the Son of God. Every one of these means “by His Authority”. The miracles in the ‘babyhood’ of the church were by His authority. The teaching and the preaching of the gospel was done by His authority. Those who were immersed, were baptized “into Christ” by His authority. Any other ‘baptism’ is unauthorized.
A case in point is Acts19:1-5 as Paul traveled to Ephesus where he found certain disciples. These were questioned regarding their baptism, and it was discovered they had only submitted “unto John’s baptism (vs 3). Perhaps they “felt” that this was permissible as the baptism of John was valid at one point and had a purpose. John’s baptism was only to Israel, and as we read in Acts 19:4 was “the baptism of repentance”. And as they were baptized of John’s baptism, he told them “they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.” Upon hearing the preaching of Paul, “they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus” per verse 5. It is only in the baptism “into Christ” where one contacts the blood of Christ, and is added to “the church” (Acts 2:47).
Paul, directed by the Spirit, condemned the ‘party spirit’ that had arisen among the Lord’s church in Corinth in 1Cor 1:12-13. Various factions had begun, and some attempted to follow men. This needed to be corrected then and needs correction now. The Spirit had Paul write: “Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. 13 Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? ” In Acts 20:28 we find how the church came to be. It was “purchased” with the blood of Christ. The blood of Christ was shed on the cross of Calvary. Paul, Apollos, Cephas (Peter), nor any other, including John the baptizer, could die to purchase the church. Why then do some ‘churches’ wear the name of Luther or Westley? I suppose they can since “their churches” belong to them.
In Matt. 16:18, just after Peter ‘confessed’ Jesus Christ as the Son of God, the Lord told Peter “I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” His death on the cross would not prevent the purchase of, the establishment, nor the victory of His church. His church belongs to Him and He has full authority over it. Jesus told His apostles in John 8:32 “ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”. The truth would make them free from sin (only if they followed it). In John 16:13 He then told them that the Holy Spirit will “guide you into all truth”. He has provided these instructions for His church in the New Testament.
Then why do so many seek to ‘worship’ as they wish? It is because they follow the ‘doctrines of men’. Matt. 15:9 tells us what this produces. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. Can the “churches” founded by John Calvin, Roger Williams and John Clark, Joseph Smith, or a score of others be “the Lord’s church”? By whose authority did they build their churches? In their churches, they have their doctrines and according to the Lord Himself, this yields “vain worship”.
Which church? Man’s church or the Lord’s church? You decide.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
When Your Happiness Becomes Your Joy
When Your Happiness Becomes Your Joy
As we enter life, we begin to discover what brings us happiness. When, as infants, we received the things we needed such as mother’s milk or a blanket when we were cold, we became contented and happy. Happiness, according to one definition, is: a state of feeling or showing pleasure or contentment with one's current situation. During our time as children, our situation may change dramatically depending on various factors. Some remember what may be described as a very “happy childhood” while others in the same family may look back on those same years with disdain.
Unfortunately, as many grow up, the desire and search for happiness may lead to paths that are less than desirable and often lead to a life of misery. These paths are taken to fulfill various ‘fleshly desires’, supposing these will produce happiness. However, the Words of Rom. 8:12-13 should help all understand the fallacy of seeking the “fleeting happiness” of the flesh to the detriment of true joy. Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
If we ‘back up’ just a bit in the scriptures, we see in Rom. 8:5-6 where the desire for ‘happiness’ in this life only leads. At the same time, we can easily see where being ‘spiritually minded’ takes us. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
At this point in a discussion about happiness, many insert the question: “But doesn’t God want me to be happy?”. Of course He does, but He has provided the way for all things “wholesome” whereby we may be happy. 2Pet. 1:3 tells us this. According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:
Earlier, a definition of happiness was given, so joy must also be defined. According to a Wikipedia article, joy is: the state of being that allows one to experience feelings of intense, long-lasting happiness and satisfaction of life. This seems to fit because “if” what makes us ‘happy’ in this life leads us to eternal life, we anticipate the ‘joy’ of heaven. There are only two places that are truly “long-lasting”. One of these is heaven and the other is Hell. Only one of these has joy.
We may think that our time on earth is long, or long-lasting, considering all we must endure, and the fact that some folks live what is considered by many to be a long life. The Spirit had Paul contrast the ‘span’ of our time here on earth with eternity in 2Cor. 4:17. We may think that portions of our lives seem to take “forever” to pass, but Paul says they are quite brief in comparison. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; Eternal is forever, and
there will certainly be no ‘joy’ among those who are punished as described in 2Thess. 1:8-9 when the Lord returns. 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;
Perhaps this is why Jesus, in Matt. 6:19-21, (part of the Sermon on the Mount), advised His hearers where to focus and why. He wanted them to be able to experience real joy. He said: Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. One’s “heart” in this context is the mind. If our mind’s focus is on the things from the Word of God, and doing those things to be pleasing to Him, we can be extremely happy as we live our lives on this mundane sphere. Only because our time here on earth is spent ‘happily preparing’, in full accordance with His Word, can we expect to spend eternity with Him in Heaven.
When one considers the ‘plan of God’ and the joy it brings, they enjoy much happiness in following God’s Word. From the O.T. Scriptures, we see in Psa. 1:1-2 how the Spirit had the psalmist describe the attitude and the actions of one who loves God and strives to faithfully serve Him. Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. “Blessed” in this passage means “happy”. This same idea is conveyed in the N.T. in Rom. 7:22. Here the Spirit had Paul describe his happiness in following the ‘law of God’ even when temptations assailed him. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: Their happiness had become their joy In both of these cases.
Your happiness can become your joy also. If what you think makes you happy is leading you away from God and His Word, there is no real ‘joy’ in it, nor to where it leads. That ‘fleeting happiness’ ends when your life on earth ends. Look into the Holy Word of God today. Obey the gospel and become a “child of God” and remain faithful and grow in the faith. Then you can be happy here while working toward eternal joy. Lay up for your-self “treasure” in heaven. You won’t be disappointed.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
