You Watch Your Mouth!

You Watch Your Mouth!

    I’m sure someone has said this to us at one point or another during our lives. This may have been when we said something that another deemed inflammatory or derogatory. Perhaps our parents said this to us when, as a child, we repeated an “unsavory” word or phrase that we had previously heard, and most likely didn’t even understand what we said. Cursing, lewd remarks, and dirty jokes fall into this category. Unfortunately, many fail to realize that unseemly and unwelcome words can be expressed without speaking vulgar and vile words.  
     For instance, have you heard of the “language of Ashdod”? Sadly, there are many who have not. In the days of Nehemiah, he observed that some of the Jews had married non-Jews. These folks they married were people of the city of Ashdod, and of the nations of Ammon and Moab. Part of the problem with this is found in Neh. 13:24. The consequences of the unions between these Jews is seen in their children. And their children spake half in the speech of Ashdod, and could not speak in the Jews' language, but according to the language of each people.  Some may ask: “What’s the big deal?” The “big deal” is two-fold.
    First, God Commanded Israel to NOT marry the people of the Promised Land when Israel came in to possess it. God named them – He called out the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. In Deut. 7:3-4 God warned Israel against this and why. Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son. 4 For they will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the LORD be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly.  God’s people were to remain separated from these people so they would not become defiled in the serving of “other gods” as did their ‘new relatives’.  
   Secondly, God gave His Commandments to Israel, His O.T. people in their own language. God spoke to Israel through Moses, and later through Joshuah and through the prophets. The Words God used were simple, direct and easy for them to understand. After all, if one cannot understand, there’s no way they can be, or remain obedient. The danger was that when their language became defiled, their worship also became improper as they “embraced” many of the practices of those “foreign” to Israel and it’s Laws, given of God to Israel alone. God expected them to follow it, and receiving His Promises to them were dependent upon them being obedient. When they refused, they went into bondage on several occasions.
     The “old paths” and the “good way” from Jer. 6:16 were continually offered to the children of Israel. This would involve them living as directed by God in His Holy Word, as well as “watching their mouth” and speaking as God’s Word speaks. The Spirit had the prophet warn of this. Notice how they responded when the warning was given. Thus saith the LORD, 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. But they said, We will not walk therein. Their attitude led them to intermingle with the nations of Canaan and their language, and their worship became defiled.
   Now, how does this apply today? The “tongue” has long been needed to be controlled, and the “mouth watched”. In Jas. 1:27 we read how the early “scattered” church was directed in this. If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.  The Spirit in Jas. 3:5-10, had James pen Words to instruct regarding the proper use of the tongue and the difficulty that is realized in the effort to control it. He gave a “real life” example that could be grasped by everyone in Jas. 3:11-12 - Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? 12 Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh. 
   Christ’s teaching in Matt. 15:18 in the context of eating with unwashed hands show this as well. What He was teaching was: “what is in the mind is that which will come forth from the mouth”. But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.  The Bible “heart” is the mind, and the mind knows only what we teach it or what we have learned. But we must be careful to learn properly so that we will speak properly and obey properly. Jer. 10:23 shows that man can- not “guide” himself. Therefore, he cannot “direct” his own speech and be pleasing to God. O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.  In Matt. 4:4, Christ alluded to this when He said: It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 
   In Rom. 3:14, in the context of “evil people” we see: Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:, and in verse 18 we see the reason. There is no fear of God before their eyes. So, what to do? The advice the Spirit had Paul give the brethren in 2Cor. 6:17 really fits. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,. Obey the gospel today!   Fill your mind with the Word of God, and live according to it.   In so doing, you’ll “watch your mouth”, and you’ll also be pleasing to God.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Go For It

Go For It

     I’m sure we’ve all heard the title of this article at some point. This phrase was ubiquitous for a while. In the 1980’s, it seems that every time someone announced they were planning something or had decided to embark on a project, they heard “Go for it”! Seemingly, it didn’t matter what was being considered. This phrase was utilized by nearly everyone for every reason. In fact, we likely heard it so often, many of us were glad when this phrase fell out of vogue and some other idiom took its place.
     This short motivational phrase supposedly helps one move past any hesitation, and put forth the maximum effort required to finally achieve what you truly want in this life. Therein lies the problem. What do we want in this life, or more importantly what “should we want” in this life? Should we not want that which will yield “good results” for that which is beyond this life? If the things we “want” in this life lead to pain, suffering, and destruction, should we not abandon them for better things.  
     In the Deut. 10:12-13 account of the of the giving of the Law of Moses to Israel, we see what God expected of His Old Testament people. And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, 13 To keep the commandments of the LORD, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good? 
     From the time Israel was given the tables of stone until the close of the Old Testament, God, through the Spirit told His people to “go for it”. But what were they to “go for”? In Isa.1:19-20 we are told. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:20 But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.  When Israel chose to “go for” the wrong things, they brought death and destruction upon themselves.
      But what of us today?  We are not under the same Law or system as was Israel in that dispensation of time. At that time, only Israel was under that Law, but all others were under the Patriarchal dispensation. Today, all are under the Law of Christ, as we all live in the “last days”. God requires the same of us today in the New Testament age as He did of His Old Testament people; keep His Commandments. In every age, faith and obedience has been part of God’s plan. God has laid out His final plan for the Salvation of souls and through inspiration has written it down for all to read and follow. Rom. 16:25 tells us the Word was a mystery at one time. But Rom.16:26 tells us: But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:  The rewards for the obedient and faithful, as well as the punishment for the disobedient and unfaithful are there for all to read and understand.
      Therefore, everyone today needs to carefully search God’s Word to see what it is they are to “go for”. God’s Word contains the Promises of God as well as what He desires. We are told in 2Pet. 3:9 - The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. All His Promises are available and attainable. However, those who refuse to “come to repentance” (be obedient), will suffer eternally for their disobedience. This will occur when the longsuffering of God has run it’s course and this world and its works burn up. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.  (2Pet. 3:10)
      Perhaps if we seriously consider the Words of Rom. 2:6-10 and compare the scenarios and the results, we can surely understand what God desires all to “go for”. Verse 6, speaking of God states: Who will render to every man according to his deeds: Verses 7 & 10 show God’s Promise to those who obey and are faithful – 7-To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:  10- But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: Contrast this with verses 8-9 and God’s Promise to the disobedient and unfaithful. But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, 9 Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;  This means everyone.
     So, “go for it”. That’s what God wants us to do. He wants us to seek the Salvation He planned before the foundation of the world. But we can only go for it while in this life. From the Old Testament in Eccl. 9:10 we learn: 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.  We’re all going to die, but while here, all have to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Phil. 2:10).
     Obey the gospel, remain faithful from that time until you pass from this life. Only then can one be pleasing to God and receive the reward. Go for it. You’ll surely be blessed.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

How Scripture Can Make You A Person Of Integrity

How Scripture Can Make You A Person Of Integrity

       Many desire to be respected or to be admired during their time on this earth. If one has integrity, he or she is more likely to have the respect or admiration of others. Some seek the approval of others, or want folks to hold them in high regard when it is not warranted. Integrity, by definition is: the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness: Few seek to be “upright” today by going to the Scriptures. 
     Modern society has been lulled into thinking that the Holy Word of God is little more than ‘maxims’ to be accepted or rejected. They’ve been told that the events in the Bible were conjured up by man to teach us lessons to help us find our “personal truth”. We hear many today speak of “his or her truth”. Is this not ‘subjective truth’, which is simply an opinion? Can the belief or opinion of someone else change who we are? Adopting the ideas of others can have a profound effect on us, but for these to change us, we must make these concepts our own.  
     In John 8:32, Jesus stated: And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.  He was not speaking of His opinion. A quick glance at the previous verse shows He was referencing God’s Word as He spoke to ‘those Jews which believed on Him’. He said: If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;  But how do we know the Word of God is what produces integrity in a person? Is this not what God said in regard to His faithful suffering servant in Job 2:3? And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause. Where did Job’s strong moral principles come from? What enabled Him to be so honest? Was it not his respect of God and his following of the commands of God? Indeed it was. This was the reason God singled him out as an example.
     Yes, Job was a person of integrity because He sought God and His Will as he followed God’s directives. No, these directives were not written as Job lived under the Patriarchal dispensation of time. God’s Word was not penned at that time. Under the Patriarchal Law, the father (Patriarch) of each family determined how each family group would serve God. This system of God began with the creation of man and lasted until God gave a written Law to Moses to deliver to the Israelites.
      Noah was another man of integrity under the Patriarchal system. As we read Gen 6:8-9 we see why. Here we are told: But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD. ⁹ These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.  To ‘walk with God’ is to walk according to God’s directions. We know this it the case with Noah as Gen 6:22 shows his dedication to God’s directives in the building of the ark and the gathering all the animals and foodstuffs needed to sustain life on the ark. Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.  
     The first written Law of God was to Israel, the descendants of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. This Law was known as the Law of Moses, and began the Mosaic dispensation. God gave this Law to Moses to give to His people. Integrity was also a characteristic of Moses during this dispensation of time. Moses carried out God’s directives in resolving the rebellion of Korah and his followers. These men challenged the authority God had given to Moses. God directed Moses to have the leader of every family of Israel bring a rod. Moses was to ‘lay these up’ before the Lord in the tabernacle of witness. The rod of Aaron budded as evidence that God had chosen Moses and Aaron to lead God’s people. The rod of Aaron was to be brought before the people to dispel the rebellion and the murmuring. In Num 17:11, we read: And Moses did so: as the LORD commanded him, so did he. 
     In John 14:6 as Christ was telling His apostles of His pending departure from them, He told them they knew the way, and where He was going. We remember that Thomas responded that they did not know where He was going, so how could they know the way? Jesus’ response: I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. This was still under that Mosaic dispensation as the church was not yet established. Later, in John 17:17, in one of His many prayers, speaking of His apostles Jesus said: Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.  At that time, all the Jews were to be people of integrity by following the Law of God that had been given them.
      Today, all are under the final dispensation of time. Every nation is under the same Law of God. It is the N.T. Law of God as Heb 1:2 shows. Therefore, if a person wants to truly be a person of integrity, they need to heed the Word of God as it applies to all today.   This necessitates the faithful preaching of it in the pulpits as 2Tim 4:2-3 shows. Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. ³ For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; The next verse says that those who won’t receive or accept the truth will be turned to fables.  
     Why not seek the truth, know the way, and become a person of integrity in God’s sight today by doing “all the Lord Commandeth”?

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Perplexed?

Perplexed?

    How many different pieces of ‘religious advice’ have you received over your lifetime? Have you ever thought about it? In most discussions about religious questions, there is counsel offered by those involved in the conversation. Those who present their version of ‘help’ in this area of our lives, often do so with sincerity. But much of this proposed guidance is contradictory and a great deal of what is expounded is only the “opinion” of man and is not the gospel of Christ.  
    Jesus, while here on earth, and while living under the Law of Moses stated; “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32). He had just completed the statement to the Jews which believed in Him in verse 32. He told them “if ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;” Hold on a second. If one continues in the Word of God, doesn’t this nullify the opinions of man? It should! Where are those of a generation or so ago who challenged: “Show it to me in the New Testament”? When the New Testament is consulted (and followed), all the confusion in religion disappears.  
     Confusion in any area results when not all who are involved knows what is going on. A classic example is found in Acts chapter 19. Paul remained in Ephesus, having sent Timothy and Erastus on into Asia. When Demetrius the silversmith proclaimed that their craft of making silver shrines to the god Diana was in jeopardy, he got the city together and stirred everyone up. Paul would have gone to talk to the people, but the Christians of Ephesus pleaded with Paul not to go. Acts 19:32 shows what was going on among the Ephesians that were gathered. “Some therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was confused; and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together.” It was so bad that the town clerk had to appease the people and dismiss their assembly.  
    It is likely that some went home still confused or perplexed. What would it take to clear up the confusion? The answer is simple. It is the same thing Christ said – the truth. The Spirit had the apostle Paul write to the church in Ephesus. In Eph 3:3-5 we see how this truth was made known to them and to all who seek truth. “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;” God’s New Testament Word had been delivered through inspiration to men such as the apostle Paul and these Words were written so we could read and understand.
     This was reiterated in Col 2:2-4 as the Spirit had Paul address Colossae & Laodicea. In these verses, these brethren were also warned about what would bring them confusion. He wrote: “That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; 3 In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.”  The enticing words of which the apostle wrote were the confusing “opinions of man”. God wanted all men to know of His great plan for salvation of souls.
     Therefore, according to Heb 1:1-2 God has always spoken to man as He revealed His plan and brought it to fruition. He began in the Old Testament and continued until the New Testament replaced it and was put into effect. God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;  What did He want all to know so that none need be perplexed or confused? 1Tim 3:16 reveals this to all who will read His Word. And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. 
     This doesn’t mean that there won’t be confusion in the world, or that folks won’t see difficulties or even persecution. These things are simply a part of this life. But remember that God gave us His Word to dispel these things. I can’t think of any but Christ who faced a more difficult time on earth than His apostles. 2Cor 4:8-10 tells us of some of the things they had to endure as they served the Lord. Notice that they faced these things valiantly and with courage because the Word of God had been revealed to them and they trusted in it. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;  9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 10 Always
     Perplexed, bewildered, and confused? Why not read, learn and follow God’s New Testament Word of God? You can understand the truth, obey it and be free. You can be saved, and as the brethren of Phil 2:12, “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Fearless Optimism

Fearless Optimism

   There are times in which everyone is afraid even though some claim differently. However, what scares one is not what may cause another to be frightened. This is true because everyone has different likes and dislikes, and respond differently to various stimuli. We’ve all also known others who had seemingly unerring courage, even in the face of difficulties many would call impossible. If we are honest, we are probably a little envious of such folks.   The truth is, that most who face incredible odds with assurance are often afraid. Yet they still persevere.
   As we face the many uncertainties of life, there is much we don’t know and a great deal we cannot foresee.   This is the nature of life. We are told in Eccl 9:11 that “time and chance happeneth to them all”, meaning that the various troubles of life may affect anyone. Not one of us can be fully knowledgeable of what challenges life holds for us, nor how we will truly react when they do come. However, this is no reason to curl up into a ball and ‘roll through life’, careening off obstacles until we meet our end. To do so is to simply allow life to happen.   If we do this, we deserve what we will receive in the afterlife.
   On numerous occasions while Christ was on the earth preparing His apostles for the Great Work He would have them continue as He returned to Heaven He told them “Be not afraid ”. Additionally, He told one ruler of a synagogue, “Be not afraid, only believe” (Mark 5:36). This is not saying all one has to do to prepare for an heavenly home is to believe as many teach. Rather, He was saying they were to possess ‘fearless optimism’. When one has fearless optimism, it doesn’t mean they are never afraid, but that they possess courageous hope. Even in the face of fearful and difficult situations they remain strong, continually looking for that which is beyond. They also continue to remain prepared.
   Fearless optimism is also confident hope. The faithful Christian has total confidence in the promises of God. 2Pet 1:3 tells us God “hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness”. It also tells us that we have these “through the knowledge” of Christ. The faithful Christian knows that there is life beyond this one. If not, we could have no confidence and there would be no hope. In1Cor 15:19, the Holy Spirit had the apostle Paul write: “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.”  We will not spend eternity in these fleshly bodies. Those who are “in Christ” are to be resurrected at the end of time. 1Cor 15:20 confirms this. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 
   The word “firstfruits” in the KJV Bible indicates that there are those that will follow the first to do this. Christ rose from the dead to ‘die no more” so man could follow. The whole purpose for which Christ died is to bring the plan of God for the Salvation of man to fruition. 1Pet 1:20 tells us that Christ was “foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest (made known) in these last times for you,”. Christ came and gave Himself on the cross of Calvary so that 1) the souls of man could be saved, 2) So that all faithful Christians can have total faith in God’s Promises, 3) So that all who “fight the good fight of faith” can “lay hold on eternal life”.
   But where does fearless optimism, or courageous hope come from? How does one overcome fear? Christ gave us a glimpse of this in Mark 8:26 as His disciples fearfully implored Him to save them. He and His disciples were in ship on the sea. A great tempest arose and the ship was swamped with the waves. These seasoned sailors feared for their lives. He said unto them:“Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? ”. They were with the creator of all things, yet they had fear. Not only were they with the creator, but they were with the Word, per John 1:1-4. They had fear because they lacked faith.
    Because the “Word” was with God in the beginning, at creation, and came in the flesh to die on the cross does not mean there is nothing to fear. All need to be reminded what a life of sin produces. Heb 10:27 reminded the Hebrew Christians that to return to the Old Testament Law that had been nailed to the cross brought “a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.” Then, in Heb 10:31, they were told: “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” The Lord also alluded to this in Matt 10:28 where He said, 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. 
   We find in Rom 10:17 that faith comes from the Word of God. This should also help us see that courageous hope and fearless optimism comes from the same source. God’s Word introduces us to God, His Son, His plan and His great and precious promises. If we believe and follow His Word, we needn’t fear anything in this life. Rather, through His Word and His Son, we will make preparation for our eternity. Once we have obeyed the gospel, we will remain prepared and fearlessly optimistic as 1Pet 1:22 teaches. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: 

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Keeping Your Eye On The Prize

Keeping Your Eye On The Prize

    We’ve all likely heard “keep your eye on the goal” or prize. To do this, one must first have a goal. Then, the “prize” is often achieved by focusing on and reaching a series of goals. We all are taught this at a young age. For instance, when the young boy begins “T” ball, he soon learns about the “home run”. This is a ‘prize’ because if he gets one, he will be cheered, and his team will have another score on the board. But he soon finds out this requires completing several steps or targets to reach so he can accomplish the “home run” goal. First, he must keep his eye on the ball. Secondly, he must swing the bat with enough force to propel the ball over the fence or way out in the outfield. Thirdly, he must run the bases and finally, he can cross ‘home plate’.   What a joy to receive the prize.
   Jesus taught about focus in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matt. 6:21-24, we see the fallacy of divided attention (lack of focus). We are likely familiar with verse 24 and the fact that one cannot serve two masters. This was preceded by Christ’s teaching on focus in verses 22-23 when He said: The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. ²³ But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!  This passage also teaches that the object of one’s focus is as important as the focus itself.
   If a person’s focus is not proper they are likely to desire the wrong kind of prize. Jesus had warned His disciples against improper focus. He warned them against focusing on earth and its temporary treasures. He also taught them to look for eternal wealth. In Matt. 6:21 He told them: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.  By this He meant that one’s mind would be inclined toward whatever that individual deemed to be the most important thing to them, and that is what they will hold dear over all else.
    Consider the events of Mark 10:17-22. We are aware of the occurrences reported. When the young man approached the Savior, he claimed to desire ‘eternal life’. The Lord told him to inherit eternal life, he would need to keep the Commandments, and Christ named a few. The young man thought this eternal prize was within reach until the Lord, knowing his mind, and loving him said: One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me. (Mark 10:21) Then, in the following verse, Mark 10:22, we see what was of greater value and more important to him than eternal life. And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions. 
     How sad it is that many fail to realize the value of their soul. This young man valued his “great possessions” more highly than where he would spend eternity. The object of his focus was improper. His material wealth couldn’t save his soul. In verse 23, Christ told them: How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!  He then clarified and drove the point home when His disciples were amazed. It was not this man’s “riches” that were in the way, but his love of them. Christ showed this in verse 24. Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!  All of this was under the Old Testament Law, before the establishment of the church.  
   But this is also the same as the New Testament teaches in1Tim. 6:9-10 which shows what diverts the focus of some Christians and causes them to take their eyes off the prize. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. ¹⁰ For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.  The “love of money” is what the Lord had in mind in Matt. 16:26 when He asked these questions.  For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?  Sadly, many are ready to ‘sell their soul’ and they take their eyes off the prize in so doing.  
   Equally damning is the mistake folks make of thinking they have “made it” before the end of this life. The ‘rich man’ of Luke 12:16-21 took his eye off of the eternal prize of heaven because he foolishly spent all his time and effort on obtaining and maintaining his ‘goods’ he thought would sustain him many years.   Little did he realize time runs out when we least expect it. Many religious folks think they have their ‘ticket punched’ for the trip to glory. They take their eyes off the prize and simply go through life focused on the things of this life. These will miss the mark!
     Should we not rather be as Paul was in Phil. 3:12-14, realizing that we have not “already attained”? Verse 13 shows there is no value in dwelling (focusing) on the past (things which are behind). The goal is attained only by maintaining focus and continuing to “press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (verse 14).
     Make sure the “prize” is the right one. Follow God’s Rules, it’s His prize of heaven we are seeking. Keep your eye on the prize. Help others see it through God’s Word.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Why People Fail To Give, a Recipe & More

Why People Fail To Give

1. THEY LACK TEACHING – We are what we have been taught. One may be a Baptist, or a Morman, etc., depending upon what he has been taught. One may be a liberal giver or a stingy one, depending on his teaching.
2. THEY ARE IN REBELLION TOWARD GOD – God’s Law teaches giving (2Cor. 9:7).   The person who knows this and does not obey it is in rebellion.
3. THEY ARE RELIGIOUSLY LOPSIDED – He believes the Bible in spots. He thinks the alien must obey Acts 2:38, but that the Christian does not have to obey 1Cor. 16:2.   He understands the command to observe the Lord’s Supper, but thinks one doesn’t have to obey the command to give. Just what kind of religion is this?
4. THEY LACK FAITH – We show our faith by our works (Jas. 2:18), rather than by our professions. It is easy to tell what a person believes by what he does.
5. THEY LACK INTEREST IN THE LOCAL CHURCH – It takes money to do the things the church needs to be doing. A miserly contribution will greatly diminish the work that can be done.
6. THEY DO NOT WANT TO COOPERATE – We are to work together. One may not be able to give much, but all of us working together can.
7. THEY LOVE MONEY – One may refuse to give because he is a lover of money more than a lover of God. See 1Tim. 6:10

8. BECAUSE THEY ARE A POOR INVESTOR – you are investing your money some way! Roger Babson said, “One dollar spent for lunch lasts 5 hours. One dollar spent for a necktie lasts 5 weeks. One dollar spent for the Lord lasts for eternity.” You cannot take your money with you, but you can send it on ahead of you (Matt. 6:19-20).
   Here is one of the most meaningful epitaphs ever engraven: WHAT I SAVED I LOST . . . WHAT I SPENT I USED . . . WHAT I GAVE I HAVE.

Leroy Brownlow – Ft. Worth, Texas – deceased

A Recipe for Real Religion

Let us (1) do away with “speculative theology;” (2) discard all sectarian names and phrases; (3) abandon all doctrines and practices of human origin; (4) accept by faith, “the things that are revealed” (Deu. 29:29); (5) wear only such religious names, individually and congregationally, as may be found in the Bible; (6) “contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3), and “adorn the doctrine of God our Savior” (Tit. 2:10).
     Formal Confession of Faith—“Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Mat. 16:16):
   Worship and Government—Let the worship be simple and spiritual, not elaborate and worldly, eliminating that which merely entertains or “makes a show.” In government, acknowledge Jesus Christ as the only “head of the body, the church;” accept the Word of God as revealed by the Holy Spirit as the only rule of faith and practice; preserve the unity and independence of each local congregation “with the overseers and deacons” thereof.
   Unity and Union—The Bible idea of unity and union of believers is not that of a “federation of churches,” nor a “religious trust;” but it is the spiritual unity of each believer with Christ in God (see John 17), and such practicable and practical union as may be necessary to “worship God in the beauty of holiness” and to “maintain good works”—charitable, moral, and missionary—at home and abroad (see 1 Cor. 10:17).  

The above article was reprinted in The Defender,
a publication of the Bellview church of Christ in June 1968,
and was taken from
“The Cleburne Christian” Cleburne, Texas, February, 1923

    Usually, “recipe” brings to mind something to be cooked or prepared for consumption. The word ‘recipe’, defined as a noun is: a set of instructions for preparing a particular dish, including a list of the ingredients required.  But prior to the 16^th century, the term was used as a verb, as an instruction in medical prescriptions. Therefore, the title of the borrowed article above is appropriate. God “prepared” for the Salvation of man from before the creation of the universe and the world. Eph. 1:4 is one place the Spirit had this recorded for mankind. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 
    Now, lest anyone applies this verse as teaching “predestination”, consider that God made the plan, developed the plan to bring His Son, paid the price in the giving of His Son to shed His blood and die on the cross to purchase the church. He then confirmed the plan when the Lord came forth from the grave to ‘die no more’. After this, in Acts chapter two the church which Christ purchased was established, initially, about three thousand souls were added to the church that day when they followed God’s ‘recipe’ for Salvation as laid out in Acts 2:38.
     From that time forward, God’s ‘prescription’ (recipe) for Salvation has been offered. 2Thess. 2:14 shows that none are “predestined” to Salvation, but all are called in the same way. Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Why not heed the gospel call, follow God’s recipe for the healing and salvation of your soul before it is too late?

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

What Kind of Life Do You Want?

What Kind of Life Do You Want?

     I recently read this observation about today’s society: “Modern society wants entertainment instead of enrichment and a 'good time' rather than a 'good life.” Sadly, we see this played out in many people's lives, and none of us are immune to the temptation to want the same.
     Instead of being spiritually enriched, many only want to be carnally entertained. Many are not interested in whether or not they are living a good life. Their priority is only to experience what they style “a good time!”
     Hedonism is defined as “The self-indulgent pursuit of pleasure as a way of life.” The pursuit of pleasure and entertainment predominates the lives of many people. Having a good time has become the avenue of happiness for some. It doesn’t mean that I think all entertainment is wrong, happiness is wrong, or having the right kind of good time is wrong. The truth is that clean entertainment isn’t wrong and even has some value. Helen Keller said, “Many persons have a wrong idea about what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.” Thus, having a “good time” is not wrong as long as we don’t have to become less than good to have it!
    We must acknowledge that it is foolish and short-sighted to be so caught up in momentary gratifications that we forget what is important in life. Serving the Lord is where true meaning and purpose in life are found. Jesus said: “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). Knowing that one has forgiveness of sins, access to God in prayer, God’s Word for our daily guidance (Psalms 119: 105), spiritual blessings in Christ (Ephesians 1:3), and encouragement of faithful people of God, we can have life in its fullness in this life with the hope of eternal life in Heaven with God after a while (Titus 1:3; 2:11-14).
     What kind of life do you want? The choice is yours. Think on these things.

- - - - Dennis Abernathy – White Oak church of Christ

     I don’t know the brother who wrote the above article, but I am in total agreement with his assessment of the type of lives some choose to live. Some Christians seem to forget that they made commitment to God when they obeyed the gospel. The choice they made was to forsake the things of the world, and cling to God and His Word. The Holy Spirit had the beloved apostle pen it this way in 1John 2:15. 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. This means that the Christian is to learn the Word, rightly divide it, and apply it in their lives on a daily basis. Could it be that some forget the admonition found in Jas. 4:8? It reads: Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Perhaps some Christians fail to realize that God is not “close to them” because they are not close to Him.
     Christ also warned of the fallacy of ‘divided loyalty’. This is when one is “straddling the fence”, or trying to follow God and also embracing the things of the world. In that same Sermon on the Mount He said: No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. (Matt. 6:24). Jesus was telling the Jews of His day that they were to make a commitment to God or to the world and the things “of the world”. They could not ‘choose’ to serve both at the same time. Neither can faithful Christians have one foot in the world, and the other in the church, and be pleasing to God. The Lord called the ‘religious people’ of His day that tried this hypocrites. The Spirit had Paul write the brethren in Corinth and warn against being “unequally yoked” with unbelievers. Things that are in opposition one to another are not in agreement and are not to be in fellowship with each other. What did they need to do in accordance with 1Cor. 6:17 to be ‘received’ of God? Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,.
   Why do some people (including Christians) have trouble keeping the commitments they make? Could it be they need more constant reminders? The wedding ring on the left hand is a sign of the commitment each of the participants in the marriage made to each other.   Is it not also a constant reminder of that commitment? It should be. It is always present and should be ample evidence for others that the wearer of the ring is committed to their spouse and is ‘off limits’ and unavailable.
   God did not provide for or command the wearing of an article or piece of jewelry so others would know that they are Christians. Jesus taught the Jews of His day about the pending kingdom, the church, in the Sermon on the Mount.   In Matt 7:20 He said: Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.  Christians are not to be “known” as followers of Jesus by a crucifix on a chain about the neck or a ‘fish’ symbol on their vehicle. Others should know what kind of life the Christian wants by the choice he/she has made. This should be reflected daily in the lives that they live.  
    As Christians, are we “rooted and grounded in love”? (Eph. 3:17). Are we “grounded and settled” in the hope of the gospel? (Col. 1:23). Do we stand strong, always bearing the “whole armor of God”? (Eph. 6:11-17). If not, what kind of life have we chosen?

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Home Of The Soul

Home of the Soul

    No doubt as we’ve lived our lives we’ve moved a few times. When one is a child, they usually relocate whenever and wherever their parents transfer from one place to another. Those places to which we move are our homes. Very young people don’t have a lot of choice in the moves as these are often dictated by the parents vocation or perhaps an opportunity for their parents to advance within a particular occupation.
   However, as we become older and face these decisions on our own, for the most part we realize the ability to choose where we want to live. Of course, if we are in the military services, we are directed by our government where our home is to be, whether temporary (in deployment), or for the time in which we are stationed on a particular base etc. Some gospel preachers have discovered that their chosen vocation could require a ‘series of moves’, and living in a multiplicity of homes during their career.
   Have we ever considered that our soul will ‘move’ one day? Our soul was given to us as a part of God’s plan of procreation and it lives in our bodies. But it will not always reside there. These bodies will die. Where will our soul reside then?   This is a question we need to ponder. In Eccl. 12:7, in the context of the decay and death of our bodies, we have a statement that may have been misunderstood over the years. Here, Solomon was directed by the Spirit to write: “Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.” Does this indicate the departed goes to where God is? NO it doesn’t! How do we justify such an idea with 1Jno. 5:7 which say only three bear record in heaven? If all souls, upon the death of the host, go directly to heaven where God is, for what reason would the rich man and Lazarus of Luke 16 be in two different places or ‘states’ within the same realm? It seems to me that these both, Paradise and the ‘place of torments’, are temporary receptacles of souls based on how each lived while in the flesh.
     We know after a life of pain and suffering, the beggar (Lazarus) died. He was carried to a place called ‘Abraham’s bosom’ which we understand to be Paradise. We also know the rich man, who lived his life according to his fleshly desires, died. He went to ‘torments’ as Luke 16:23 shows. The Greek word translated ‘hell’ in the KJV Bible is “Hades”, which is the realm of departed souls. According to what Jesus taught in this passage, we see that there are two separate ‘compartments’ into which souls go after this life. Luke 16:26 speaks of the “great gulf” that is “fixed” between the two parts of the Hadean realm, and none are allowed to ‘change’ their location after arrival. The rich man was tormented, and Lazarus was comforted.
   The only conclusion we can draw from this is that while we live here on the earth, we are to prepare for the next “phase” of existence of our soul. There is not one single chance to alter the outcome after our soul ‘moves’ to its temporary assignment to await the end of all things. However, there seems to be some things to consider as we contemplate our next move. Do you remember some of the homes in which you lived and the moves you’ve made?   It seems that a certain amount of memory is retained in death. We see in Luke 16:25 that when the rich man cried out to Abraham for mercy, none was offered. Rather, Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.  Perhaps the remembrance of these things done or not done ‘in thy lifetime’ resulting in their terrible situation are part of the punishment of the disobedient.
   Notice also that Abraham called the rich man ‘Son’.   This indicates that both of these men were ‘sons of Abraham’, and while under the O.T. Law, children of God. As such, they were subject to that Law and disobedience in life resulted in ‘torments’. The rich man desired only a ‘drop of water’ to cool his tongue, and someone to warn his five brethren so they also did not “come into this place of torment”. He was told that Moses and the prophets had provided sufficient warning. If they, like him, failed to hear Moses and the prophets, even one who rose who from the dead (as Christ did) would not convince them.
   Today, under the N.T. system, God gives all people (whosoever will) the opportunity to become His children. Also, this is when one makes the choice where they want to spend eternity. To make the choice for their soul to go to Paradise upon death, and spend eternity with God, one MUST obey the gospel to be ‘born again’. Then, as a child of God, one MUST remain faithful, be dedicated, and continue to grow in “grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” (2Pet. 3:18). The Spirit had the apostle Paul tell us in 1Thess. 4:16-17 what occurs for the faithful in the end. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:¹⁷ Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  But what of the ungodly, the disobedient and the unfaithful? We see this in 2Thess. 1:8-9. 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; 
      What choice will you make for the eternal home of your soul?

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Plant, Nurture, Harvest, and Repeat

Plant, Nurture, Harvest, and Repeat

     If you’ve ever worked on a farm, or maintained a garden for any period of time, you understand this is how it works. The ground is prepared, the seed is planted, the ‘row’ nurtured with water or fertilizer as needed in the growth of the plant till the harvest of the ‘fruit’. One can only expect a good harvest if the process is carried out with ‘good seed’ and one tends to the crop properly by nurturing it at each stage of its development. After the harvest, the process begins again and the ‘work’ continues.  
   How is it that we can readily see this in horticulture, yet fail to understand the analogy the Lord made in the parable of the sower in Matthew 13 as He spoke to the multitudes by the seaside while He sat in a ship? His final Words as He concluded the parable were: “Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.” (Matt. 13:9) In the Luke account of this parable, the Lord explained to His disciples “the seed is the Word of God” (Luke 8:11). Then, in verse 15, we find what MUST exist for the seed to become effective. The Word of God must be “planted” into the right type of soil. Those with an honest heart can develop a good heart by ‘keeping’ the Word. We are told that the end result is ‘fruit borne with patience’.  
   It is equally true in the physical realm and the spiritual realm that seed, if not planted cannot grow. Seed is a remarkable thing. One obtains seed through God’s providence. God created every living thing and He created each for a purpose and with the capability to reproduce. The purpose for each herb and tree was to feed man whom God also created. We are told this in Gen. 1:29. And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.  After the flood, in Gen. 9:3, God also included the beasts of the field as food for humanity. Every moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you; even as the green herb have I given you all things. 
   Every living thing God made was created containing the “seed” needed to reproduce “after his kind” so when the original (or parent plant or animal) is consumed, additional plants and animals (of the same kind) would be available for the continual sustenance of man. If, when each plant was cut down or pulled up, or when each animal was killed and eaten, their kind became extinct, it wouldn’t have been very long before man himself would likely starve to death for lack of something to eat. This was God’s way of ‘providing’ food, and foregoing the need to create continually. This is also evidence of ‘patterns’ that are seen throughout the Word of God.
   From Genesis we read of the dream of Pharoah and the famine that was to occur after seven years of plenty. We read of the plan of God using the literal seed (grain) to preserve the family of Israel in Egypt until it became a great nation. After this, Israel was delivered from bondage and much later the Spirit had the psalmist pen the Words of Psa. 105:6. In this verse He was speaking of the Old Testament chosen people of God, the physical ‘seed’ of Abraham. O ye seed of Abraham his servant, ye children of Jacob his chosen.  We also know that Christ came in the flesh. This follows God’s pattern. God created man, and after that all that have been born have been “begotten”. John 3:16, perhaps the most misquoted verse, shows that Christ is the “only begotten Son” of God. Matt. 1:18 & 20 should make it clear to all, that the Christ was “of the Holy Ghost”. Therefore, Christ was of the ‘seed’ of God spiritually, (begotten of God), and of the seed of Abraham physically, (a Jew, of the tribe of Judah and of the house of David).  
   But how are we to apply this today? In Luke 10:2, the Lord directed His servants, in this case the 70, regarding the harvest. He told them: “The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.” What were they to do? They were to “plant” the word of the news of the Christ and the coming kingdom. Israel was being called back to God to “repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” as Jesus also preached (Mark 4:17).
   Today, that kingdom has come, yet the “seed”, the Word of God needs to be continually ‘planted’ in the minds of lost souls. When this is done, they can then be “nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine” (1Tim. 4:6). Those that are obedient to the doctrine of Christ become part of the earthly harvest and are added to the church (Acts 2:47). And only if they continual faithfully until death, (Rev. 2:10b), can they be part of that eternal harvest. This occurs when the Lord returns.
     Sadly, many misunderstand this concept. Many misapply 1Pet. 1:3b and think that simply because Christ died on the cross, and came forth from the grave to die no more they have hope of eternal life. But 1Pet. 1:23 clarifies this as the ‘seed’, the Word of God must be planted and nurtured, before that soul can be ‘harvested’ for the kingdom by their obedience to the gospel. Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.  Only when one obeys the gospel, can they be ‘born again’.
     So, plant that seed, nourish it, and it will bring forth life in the soul that gladly receives and obeys it. Then repeat with other souls. This is how God gives the increase,1Cor 3:6. I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.  Be part of God’s plan to save souls. Plant, Nurture, Harvest and Repeat.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ