{"id":17785,"date":"2022-01-26T17:03:57","date_gmt":"2022-01-26T17:03:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thescripturecache.com\/?page_id=17785"},"modified":"2026-02-11T22:52:10","modified_gmt":"2026-02-11T22:52:10","slug":"brief-articles-1-2","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/thescripturecache.com\/?page_id=17785","title":{"rendered":"Brief Articles\u20131"},"content":{"rendered":"

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McClish Sermon<\/span><\/strong><\/span>Videos<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

SPECIAL FREE<\/span><\/em> MANUAL FOR SONG LEADERS<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Music Fundamentals for Song Leaders <\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Congregational “singing schools”…provided training for song leaders for several generations. These had already begun to disappear by the 1960s. Observing that void prompted me, in 1965, to prepare a booklet for those who lead singing in our worship assemblies…I was…prompted to pull my old, age-yellowed copy from its file when a young, inexperienced song leader indicated that he woujld welcome such help. My copy was so unattractive and inadequate in many ways that I was too embarrassed to give it to anyone. Rather, I decided to produce a “new and improved” version, thus taking advantage of attractive printing, type, and graphics, as well as improving its content…<\/i><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

40 Years of Monstrous and Murderous Abortion<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The Pharaoh of Moses’ time ordered that every male Hebrew was to be slain at birth (Exo. 1:16, 22). He is remembered in Scripture (and by all right-thinking men) as an unspeakably cruel, immoral, and evil man….<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

2021 Is…<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The year 2021 is a brand new candle, barely lit, that will burn itself out in twelve fleet months, another volume in our own book of life, full of blank pages upon which we shall write with our words and deeds, a fresh garment without wrinkle, soil, or tear, an open door, behind which many paths will beckon before the door is closed\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Abundant Life<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Even if there were no Heaven to gain and no Hell to suffer, the Christian life would still be the most noble, satisfying, happy and abundant life on this earth.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

A Candidate’s Connections<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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PLEASE NOTE: This article was written prior to the Presidential Election of 1984.<\/strong><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

It is surely a legitimate concern of Christians to be aware of and concerned with the convictions of those who are running for public office\u2026<\/span><\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

A Church With No Elders<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The question is sometimes asked, \u201cCan a church scripturally exist if it has no elders?\u201d This is a very practical question that deserves a scriptural answer.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

A “Convenient” God<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Two or three generations ago the vast majority of Americans believed in the one true and living God, Whose existence the universe declares (Psa. 19: 1\u20132) and Whose nature and will the Bible reveals (2 Tim. 3:16\u201317). These percentages have steadily changed so that most of our countrymen now give little thought to God in any sincere way.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A 20th Century Parable<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Behold, three prominent denominations of a certain city determined to conduct \u201cunion\u201d services for three weeks during the summer months on Sunday evenings. Now a “union” service is ”a service in which the agreed participants meet together as one at designated intervals.\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“A Different Kind of Christian Evidences”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cIf you were accused of being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?\u201dMany Christians have probably heard or seen this question before, but just how often do we, think seriously about it?<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A Digger or a Watcher?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

No one has ever set out to accomplish anything without being criticized. What churches are commonly most criticized? Those that have dared to think, plan, and act \u201cbig<\/b>.\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

A Disturbing Trend<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Am I just imagining things, or is there a trend among members of the Body of Christ to treat all of the church’s worship assemblies as optional anymore? If there is, it is indeed disturbing to me.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

A Few Kind Words to PWDABC<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Lord knew that the prevailing rule in child-rearing would always be that children are products of their training (Pro. 22:6). For this cause, Moses commanded Israelite parents to use every possible moment and method to teach their children God’s law<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A Good Minister<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Paul declared at least one trait of all who would be \u201cgood ministers of Christ Jesus\u201d in 1 Timothy 4:6… Let us briefly analyze this verse…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A Great Paradox<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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One might think that the soul that is shriveling and dying from spiritual starvation would experience a yearning for nourishment, but here is a great paradox: The soul that is stunted for lack of the necessary nourishment of the \u201csolid food\u201d of the Word of God (Heb. 5:14) is least likely to be hungering and thirsting after righteousness<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A Gross Misapplication<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cIf thou shalt confess with thy mouth Jesus as Lord, and shalt believe in thy heart that God raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved\u201d (Rom. 10:9). The foregoing words from the apostle Paul may be among the most frequently abused and misused in Scripture…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A Gruesome Anniversary<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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We call the ancient Greeks who \u201cexposed\u201d their unwanted and helpless infants to wild animals and the elements \u201cbarbaric\u201d and \u201cinhumane.\u201d Even atheists justly recoil at the jealous blood thirst of Herod the Great as he murdered Bethlehem\u2019s baby boys when Jesus was born…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A Handicapped Body<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Sympathetic hearts are instantly and deeply stirred at the sight of a handicapped person…. While it is tragic enough for the physical body to be handicapped, it is a multiplied tragedy for the Lord\u2019s spiritual body, His church to be handicapped….<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

A “Head Only” Religion<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father who is in heaven (Mat. 7:21). A \u201chead-only\u201d religion is vain.\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

A Look at the You-Can’t-Legislate-Morals<\/em> Myth<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Every time someone wishes to perpetrate some kind of moral evil on society, their watchword is \u201cYou cannot legislate morals.\u201d This has been true of the protagonists for open abortion, pornography, lax divorce\/remarriage laws, legal sale of liquor and several other issues.\u2026<\/em><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

A Most Excellent Way<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Many miraculous powers were distributed among brethren in the first century. However, Paul teaches that there is a power or trait superior to all of these spectacular gifts…<\/em><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

\u00a0A Movement in Transition<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Many of our churches are struggling with their identity, their mission, and their purpose. Scripture as well as church history teach us that we’re only one generation away from apostasy.\u201d\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A Plea for Doctrinal Purity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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There was never a more devilish doctrine than that doctrinal purity is unimportant. None can read the New Testament with an unbiased eye and keep from seeing this emphasis. It begins with such representative statements from the Christ as, “If ye abide in my word, then are ye truly my disciples”….<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A Preacher You Would Not Tolerate<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

He consistently arrives a few minutes late for worship, disturbing others as he enters. He and his wife sit on the back seat. They sit stoically through the songs of praise, never opening their mouths….<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

A Primer on Baptism<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Much of the religious division among those who claim to follow Christ centers on baptism. The New Testament teaches baptism, both as to form and purpose. It is ordained of<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

A Profile of Paul<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

While stopped at Miletus, Paul visited with the elders from nearby Ephesus. In his eloquent discourse to these men, we receive some remarkable insights:…<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

A Revealing Statement Concerning Sex.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

An interesting article by John E. Gibson, entitled, “Do We Still Harbor Illusions About Sex?” appeared in Family Weekly magazine October 22, 1972. In this article, there are six propositions stated on the subject of sexual appeal and practice. The reader is asked to judge whether each statement is true or false.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

A Sabbath Controversy\u2014John 5:1\u201347<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Among the numerous lessons in this lengthy story concerning our Lord, I wish to emphasize the perfect balance between His compassionate love for men and His uncompromising proclamation and defense of the Truth….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A Sad Story That Hits “Close to Home”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

I am reproducing a clipping from <\/span><\/em>The Burnet Bulletin<\/span> from 2002 that demonstrates the disastrous end of gradual compromise that an increasing number of brethren seem determined to take\u2026The behavior of many still \u201cidentifying\u201d themselves as part of the church of Christ is blurring the line in various ways between the church and unauthorized religious organizations.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

A Salute to the Faithful<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

It is easy to get “bogged down” in our evaluations of things that surround us. It seems at times that most of our elected officials are dishonest and self-seeking.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

A Startling Statistic<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Christians are the Lord\u2019s \u201csalesmen.\u201d We would do well to look into the matter of how we treat our visitors in the classroom and the assembly. Do we expect the announcer or the preacher to do all the greeting or do we personally and warmly seek out visitors?<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

A Strong Church<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cBe strong in the Lord\u201d (Eph. 6:10) applies to individuals and churches alike. Assuming that we all want the church to be strong, what are (and are not) these sources of strength?..<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A Symptom of Spiritual Sickness<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Jack Walsh is not the first man to take a knife to the Bible. Jehoiakim, King of Judah, was the first to do so, 600 years before Christ came…<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

A Time to be Hardheaded<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Elders and preachers have become intimidated by members who threaten to take their dollars to another congregation if the message in classroom, pulpit, and bulletin is not sweet enough to suit them.\u2026<\/span>As in Ezekiel\u2019s day, the more hardheaded the listeners, the more hardheaded God\u2019s preachers must be.\u2026<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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A Tragic and Interesting Story<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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While more and more denominational preachers are discovering the New Testament church and fleeing denominational fetters to enter it, several of \u201cour own\u201d preachers are wanting to move the church ever nearer to denominationalism.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

A Vain and Useless Hope<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Millions of people who profess faith in Jesus Christ as God\u2019s Son are entertaining a vain and useless hope concerning His Kingdom.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A Virtuous Athiest<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The young man was an avowed atheist. He described himself as \u201ccapable of pristine thought and speech\u2026 moral, upstanding, conscientious, ethical, loving, and forgiving\u2026and trying to do what is right.\u201d He went on: \u201cMy strength of will and my concern with the principles and rules of right conduct are profound and unwavering….\u201d<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

A Weighty Principle<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Paul urges, \u201cBut I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple unto that which is evil\u201d (Rom. 16:19b). There is a weighty principle of truth in this inspired exhortation.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Actions Speak Louder Than Words<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Elders’ meetings, business meetings, committee appointments, and their meetings are all necessary. But we make a fatal mistake if we think they are all <\/b>that is necessary for the church to be what God intended it to be.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Affection for God’s House<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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“I <\/span>have set my affection on the house of my God” (I Chron. 29:3). David spoke the forgoing words to express his consuming desire to see a great temple erected in Jerusalem by Solomon….<\/em><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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Aliens on the Earth<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Have you ever been in a foreign country? If you have, you know that to the natives of that country, you were a foreigner, an alien, because your citizenship was in another nation. Foreigners are distinguished easily by such things as the clothing they wear, their personal habits and their manner of speech.\u2026<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

All He Asks Is All We Have<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Why do so many people fail in living the Christian life? While many answers have been offered, I believe there is one overriding reason that fits every case. People have failed either to understand or have been unwilling to surrender to the central requirement of faithful discipleship: Jesus must be absolutely first in our lives….<\/span><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

All or None<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In an article on OneNewsNow.com, Peter Heck reviewed recent statements by Rob Bell, identified with \u201cthe hipster emerging church movement.\u201d Heck discussed Bell\u2019s suggestion of universal salvation, which implies a denial of the existence of Hell.<\/span><\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

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All That Matters<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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If one\u2019s works are not the works God has authorized, they are all done in vain regarding God\u2019s notice or approval (Mat. 15:9). That which God does not authorize, He does not accept or recognize.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

America’s Incontestable Bible Roots<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

To fill the vacuum left by removal of the Bible, the Ten Commandments, and prayer in our schools, we have sex education, evolution, metal detectors, illicit drugs, and violence. Is it any wonder our nation is in such an awful mess?\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

America’s Moral Decay<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Fifty years ago, lasciviousness, adultery, and fornication, were almost universally deemed reprehensible; they hardly raise an eyebrow anymore. New York Governor, Eliot Spitzer, was forced to resign in 2008 for patronizing prostitutes. CNN rewarded him with a TV contract in 2010.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

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An Abomination to God<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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On one occasion when Jesus was warning His disciples about the peril of riches and materialism, the money-loving Pharisees heard His teaching and ridiculed Him…<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

An Inspired Warning to “Change Agents”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Solomon long ago had some words of wisdom for all of those who think change for the sake of change is as necessary as breathing: \u201cMy son, fear thou Jehovah and the king; And company not with them that are given to change\u201d (Pro. 24:21). Significantly, those who so eagerly urge change in our teaching and practice thereby demonstrate their lack of fear of Jehovah God.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Ancient Seeds Sprout<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Why is the church changing before our very eyes and becoming unrecognizable in some cases? The answer is tied up in the “seed.”<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

Animal “Rights” Extremes<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Sadistic people visit cruel and senseless suffering on lower animal forms. Accordingly, there is a place for a voice against such. As is often the case, however, that which is good in moderation becomes bad when carried to an extreme. This has happened in the \u201canimal rights\u201d movement…<\/span><\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Antioch, the Evangelistic Church<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The first great Gentile church was in Antioch of Syria, whose beginnings are described in Acts 11:19\u201330.\u2026Antioch served as the springboard for evangelizing much of the first century world.\u2026<\/em><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Anything To Be Different<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Liberalism and disdain for the authority of the New Testament continue to infect brethren, and apostasy, the natural consequence of such, likewise continues to increase. A leading symptom of this phenomenon is the employment of terminology, which is ambiguous at best and anti\u2013Biblical at worst.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Are Men Stronger Than God?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Those who believe the Bible believe that God is all-powerful. \u201cIs anything too hard for Jehovah?\u201d (Gen. 18:14) anticipates a negative answer. Scripture refers to God as \u201cAlmighty\u201d 59 times. Paul mentioned \u201c\u2026the exceeding greatness of his power\u201d (Eph. 1:19). Truly, the Bible abounds with claims of God\u2019s omnipotence.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Are They Really So Nice?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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It is common knowledge that a serious new thrust is being made to create unity between the churches of Christ and the Independent Christian Church. It has been distinctly implied by some of our unity-happy brethren that the only ones among us who object to their plans are a group they style as \u201ccantankerous,\u201d \u201cignorant\u201d brethren\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Are You Predictable<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Have you ever known someone who was unpredictable? You never know what they will say, where they will go, what they will do. You would not dare depend on them for anything of importance.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Are You Tired?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Many people live through each day in a state of physical tiredness due to insufficient rest, over-exertion, illness, anxiety, or other factors. There is another sort of tiredness that we all experience, also.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Arguing With Jesus\u2014No. 1<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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As strange as it seems, some who profess belief in Jesus Christ \u201cargue\u201d with Him by their doctrines. They do not consciously do so and will deny doing so, but, they do so, nonetheless….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Arguing With Jesus\u2014No. 2<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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As strange as it seems, some who profess belief in Jesus Christ \u201cargue\u201d with Him by their doctrines. Their doctrines also contradict the Lord\u2019s apostles and other inspired men (which equals arguing with Jesus, since He supplied their words)….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Arguing With Jesus\u2014No. 3<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Did Jesus \u201cargue\u201d with Himself in some of His statements? Did Paul, Peter, and John, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, contradict some of the things Jesus taught? Did these inspired men argue with each other (or with themselves) in their teachings?…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Arguing With Jesus\u2014No. 4<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Scribes, Pharisees, Sadducees, lawyers, and others literally and personally argued with Jesus on various occasions. They lost every time (never learning!)….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Arguing With Jesus\u2014No. 5<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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They never learned. The opponents of Jesus prepared their questions and hypothetical situations. Each time they conspired and lay in wait to \u201ccatch him in his words\u201d (Mark 12:13), they came away licking their wounds in embarrassment….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Assurances of the Triumph<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Christ’s utter destruction of the last great weapon of the devil (death itself) by the resurrection of all of the dead will signal the fact that all lesser evil, harmful, and corrupting principles (and their instigator) have now likewise been utterly defeated.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Atheism\u2014Is It Reasonable?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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All forms of atheism (e.g., anti-theism, naturalism, humanism, evolutionism, materialism) allege that Christianity is unreasonable and irrational\u2014its adherents all dupes of \u201cblind faith.\u201d Atheists aver that believers in God, the Bible, and Jesus as God\u2019s Son, are such not because<\/strong> of any evidence, but in spite <\/strong>of it.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Authority in Religion<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Only two sources of authority exist in religion. Authority is \u201cfrom heaven [Divine] or from men [human]\u201d (Mat. 21:25). Human authorities consist of such things as the rulings of one man or a council\/convention of men, creed books, the majority vote of members, and personal conscience.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Automatic” Membership Placement?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Through the years I have come across brethren who believed that merely visiting with a congregation for a few weeks or months thereby made them members, with no request on their part and no announcement to the congregation.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Back to the Bible<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Modern man is plagued with doubt, loneliness, immorality, and fear. It is little wonder that he is thus burdened, for on life\u2019s stormy voyage he has thrown chart and compass overboard. In ignoring the Bible, he has lost touch with absolute standards, placing himself at the mercy of every destructive wind that blows.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“Balanced” Preaching<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The quality of balance lends grace, order, and beauty to almost anything. The work of preaching the Gospel is no exception. God\u2019s Word contains descriptions of the balance with which God wants His preachers to preach, and men had better not tamper with it.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Baptism and Jesus’ Blood<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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With few exceptions, religious bodies professing belief in Jesus as the Christ, the only begotten of the Father, treat baptism as inconsequential. Some ignore it as if it were not in the New Testament, while others consider it \u201cimportant,\u201d but not essential to please God, with various views in between.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Baptism\u2014What does it mean?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Few religious subjects have been more thoroughly discussed, debated, and preached and written about over the past 17 or so centuries than baptism. While it is interesting (and sometimes profitable) to read or hear what uninspired men say on this and other subjects, all that really matters to those serious about their souls is what the Bible says about it.\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

Barnabas, a Good Man<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The adjective\u00a0good <\/b>is applied to men very sparingly in the New Testament. In fact, it is used only in reference to Joseph of Arimathea and Barnabas and by the same writer in both cases<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Be Faithful<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Christ does not require us to be rich, good- looking, multi-talented, socially prominent, or formally educated. There is one thing He requires of every one of His servant\u2014Faithfulness.<\/b><\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“Be of Good Courage”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Of all of Satan\u2019s weapons, his favorite may be discouragement. It is certainly one of his most powerful weapons. He has used it relentlessly on the Lord\u2019s finest servants…<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Be Watchful and Resist<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The New Testament frequently urges vigilance toward things that would spiritually hinder us. One of the clearest of these warnings is from Peter:…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Beautiful Flowers<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Man can make flowers that not only look like real ones, but that also smell and even feel like real ones.\u00a0<\/span>But, you know, there is still a test that will forever separate the real flowers from the ones men make.<\/span> <\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Before You Quit<\/a>\u00a0<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Quitters never win and winners never quit. Show me a man or woman who is a real achiever, and I will show you someone who has refused to quit when the hurdles were high, and the head winds were strong.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Ben Franklin Spanks Tom Paine<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Tom Paine was a colonial patriot, credited by some with being the \u201cFather of the American Revolution.\u201d He was given this moniker chiefly for his January 1776 pro-independence pamphlet, titled, Common Sense, which advocated revolution against the British crown. It quickly swept the colonies, selling 100,000 copies in three month\u2019s time \u2026.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Bible Baptisms Digest<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The New Testament mentions several baptisms. Failure to understand and distinguish between them leads to confusion and error….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Baptism\u2014No, 1<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Baptism has long been a subject of controversy, especially in respect to its purpose and its action. Uninspired men have written perhaps hundreds of books and millions of words about baptism. Many of these things we can read to our profit, but the only book on this subject that matters is the Word of God….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Baptism\u2014No. 2<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Mere men did not invent the Bible doctrine of baptism. Jesus, in the Great Commission (Mat. 28:19\u201320; Mark 16:15\u201316) is its author, and He alone has the right to specify its element, purpose, antecedents, action, candidates, and every other facet of it.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Baptism\u2014No. 3<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWill there be anyone in Heaven who has not been baptized?\u201d When one stresses the New Testament\u2019s clear teaching on baptism, a question similar to this often arises….<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Baptism\u2014No. 4<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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If one were to decide to concoct a plan, promising salvation upon that single act apart from all others, the most reasonable choice would not be \u201cfaith only,\u201d which is what most of the Protestant world advocates. The book of Acts records more than one case of conversion in which faith is not mentioned…<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Baptism\u2014No. 5<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Controversy over the Scriptural action involved in baptism has raged for centuries. However, all such controversy would end if all men respected the authority of the Bible. It explicitly tells us the action of baptism….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Baptism\u2014No. 6<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cDoes the New Testament say what baptism is for?\u201d Acts 2:38 states (KJV): \u201cThen Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized <\/b>every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins<\/b>…\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Baptism\u2014No. 7<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Clearly, the Bible teaches that one cannot <\/b>be saved by \u201cworks\u201d: \u201cFor by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works<\/b>, that no man should glory\u201d (Eph. 2:8\u20139, emph. added). Just as clearly, however, the Bible teaches that one is <\/b>saved by \u201cworks\u201d: \u201cYe see that by works a man is justified<\/b>, and not only by faith…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Baptism\u2014No. 8<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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For failure to grasp the connection between baptism and the blood of Christ, many people woefully misunderstand the role of baptism in God\u2019s plan. Those who understand this relationship do not question the necessity of baptism….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Baptism\u2014No. 9<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Bible tells us, by implication, when <\/b>one should be baptized. When the multitudes on the day of Pentecost heard the Gospel, Luke records the response as follows: \u201cThey then that received his word were baptized: and there were added unto them in that day about three thousand souls\u201d…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Faith\u2014No. 1<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Faith and belief (in their various cognates) are among the most frequently found words and concepts in the Bible. They are also among the most misunderstood and abused Biblical words. Without controversy, the Bible requires that all who would be saved from the condemnation of sin must possess faith in God and His Son:\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Faith\u2014No. 2<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Faith and belief are so much the basic response God requires of men that one or the other is often used as a synecdoche (i.e., a figure of speech in which a part represents the whole) for all <\/b>that one must do to be reconciled to God<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Faith\u2014No. 3<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Gospel is often called \u201cthe faith\u201d in an objective sense. When so used, the faith refers to that whole body of doctrine in which men must invest their faith.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Faith\u2014No. 4<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Our faith in God (and in all things Biblical) has to do with the elements of belief, trust, confidence, assurance, and conviction. Hebrews 11:1 describes the true nature and meaning of Biblical faith:\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Faith\u2014No. 5<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Sometimes it helps us to determine what a thing is by learning what it is not. This is so concerning the faith that each person must have in order to be saved (Mark 16:15\u201316). Like many other Biblical words, faith has been variously misdefined.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Ignorance: Consequences<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

When a woeful ignorance characterizes the church, as I believe is now the case, dire consequences effect the whole body.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Ignorance: Cures<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

How can we overcome the great famine of Bible knowledge that is so prevalent among the saints? The few things suggested in this article may seem like treating surgery with a band aid, but perhaps they are worthy of consideration.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Biblical Principles for Making Moral Decisions<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Confronting temptations to \u201ccross the line\u201d that separates moral from immoral behavior is as old as Adam and Eve. Temptation may involve money, deceit, pride, sex, power, or other elements….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Big Tent” Religion<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Members of both major political parties talk about \u201cbig-tent\u201d policies. By big-tent they mean inclusion of those who hold views diverse from and\/or contradictory to core party principles\u2014if they will vote the party ticket…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Blessings in Christ<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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To be \u201cin Christ\u201d indicates fellowship and oneness with Him; it is to dwell in His Gospel and grace. This relationship brings certain privileges and blessings that are worthy of our study and quest.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Blessings That Are Burdens<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Don’t fly off the handle when you’re full of prunes. Not bad advice, both for crows and humans.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Body\u2013Building Exercises<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Paul frequently speaks of the church as \u201cthe body\u201d in his epistles. His constant concern is that it be healthy, growing, vital.\u00a0 In his Ephesian letter (4:11\u201316), Paul describes the \u201cexercises\u201d required for spiritual body building.\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Bold as a Lion<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Solomon wrote, “The righteous are bold as a lion” (Pr. 28:1). The lion is called “king of beasts” because he fears nothing. One of the qualities that was responsible for the spread of the gospel so dramatically in the beginning was the boldness of the saints.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“Born Again” Christians<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cBorn Again\u201d is the title of a movie that was shown nationwide a several years ago, tracing the alleged \u201cconversion\u201d of one of the Watergate principals. It is not enough to be a Christian anymore. Unless one is a \u201cborn again\u201d Christian, he apparently is only second rate.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Burger King and God<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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What do a hamburger corporation and God have in common? Nothing really, but BK and man\u2019s conception<\/strong> of God is a different matter. Even among those who believe in God, most apparently think that He operates by the BK slogan: \u201cHave it your way.\u201d <\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Bye Bye Baby”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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A few years ago Hayes Carll wrote \u201cBye Bye Baby,\u201d a country music song lamenting a broken romance. This title would serve well for a song about the Pharaoh who ordered the death of all Hebrew baby boys…. It would also fit Herod\u2019s decree that resulted in the murder of all the baby boys in and around Bethlehem…. Even irreligious folk right-y recoil at such inhumane blood lust….<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Cafeteria Theology<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Does God operate a theological cafeteria? Are all of the world\u2019s religions (e.g., Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, et al.) on His \u201csteam table\u201d? Is Christianity on the menu as merely one among many choices of access leading to God and salvation?\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Can Paperclips Talk?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Most folk believe that only human beings and parrots can talk, but that\u2019s just not true. Although paperclips are not very high on the intelligence scale (and while they don\u2019t actually form and speak words), they nonetheless can \u201ctalk.\u201d What then do they say?\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Can People See the Bible Alike?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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It is obvious to the most casual observer that people do not understand the Bible alike. Besides the two major divisions of Christendom (Catholicism and Protestantism), which claim to follow the Bible, these are subdivided into countless other groups.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Cart Before the Horse<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God (John 3:16), identified both the \u201chorse\u201d and the \u201ccart\u201d in regard to the respective obligations of all mankind: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second like unto it is this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself ” (Mat. 22:37\u201339).\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Casual Marriage, Casual Divorce<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Divorce has become a casual, almost regular and normal occurrence. The only way that divorce could have become so casual is that somewhere along the line, marriage has come to be viewed as a casual relationship<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

Chapter 3, Verse 16<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Survey with me some of the important doctrines taught at \u201c3:16\u201d of various New Testament books.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Cheering for Both Teams<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

If an intellectually challenged person cheers with equal zeal for both teams on the football field, it is understandable\u2014perhaps the unfortunate fellow knows no better. If a fan with even average intelligence cheers loudly for both teams, it is irrational behavior and is not considered normal.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Children’s Games<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Remember all those games you used to play as a child?\u2026An interesting thing about these old games \u2014it seems like some kids have never grown out of them. In fact, they appear to be very popular among some church members.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Christ and Christmas<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

I received a letter from an out-of-state recipient of the Granbury Gospel. Enclosed was a copy of our paper in which I had referred to Christmas by using the abbreviated form, “Xmas.” The correspondent inquired, “What happened to Christ?”\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Christ Is the Fruit of My Life<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The \u201cfruit of the Spirit\u201d is produced by allowing the Holy Spirit to control one’s life through His Word …When these characteristics are seen in us then Christ lives in us\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Christian Billboards<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The function of a billboard is to advertise a product or a service. The Christian advertises both. The product is the Gospel and the beautiful life It produces. The service is the helpfulness he extends to his fellowmen and the careful obedience he expresses toward God.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Christian Certainties \u2014 No. 1<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

We live in an age gripped by agnosticism. Agnosticism is the namby-pamby wishy-washy, spineless approach to the vital issues of life. In the realm of faith, it dictates a \u201cwait and see\u201d attitude; maybe there is a God, but maybe there isn\u2019t.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Christian Certainties \u2014 No. 2<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

In an age of doubt, cynicism, and agnosticism, the human heart cries out for something solid, certain, and sure. We live in such an age, and it is appropriate for us to consider some of those things of which we can be sure.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Christian Certainties \u2014 No. 3<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Because of the philosophies that deny absolutes and advocate relativism and nebulosity for all oral and spiritual issues, it is more necessary than ever that we understand that there are some things of which we can be certain.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Christian Certainties \u2014 No. 4<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Despite the negative, skeptical philosophies that seem to control the minds of most of mankind, there are yet some matters that are certain and sure. Puny man will never overthrow the true and living God of Heaven, although he may deny the existence of the Supreme Being.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Christian Certainties \u2014 No. 5<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

In a world that is constantly being bombarded with doubt and despair, there is a desperate need for some things that are solid and certain. More than anyone else in the world, the Christian can lay claim to numerous privileges and truths that fill this very need.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Christian Certainties \u2014 No. 6<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Life has many uncertainties. A person who seems strong and healthy one day may drop dead the next. Someone on whom we were depending may disappoint us; a trusted friend may betray us.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Christian Haters<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The title above is admittedly ambiguous. It can mean \u201cChristians who express hatred,\u201d or it can mean \u201cthose who hate Christianity.\u201d The latter meaning describes a growing \u201cnorm\u201d of attitude and behavior. A broad-based coalition would banish every vestige of \u201cChristianity\u201d from our national identity.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Christian Evidences<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Study of Christian evidences is the study of matters that give substance to the claims of the Gospel and its principal figure, Jesus Christ. Such evidences are usually divided into two major fields….<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Christianity Comes in Cans<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Are you aware that Christianity comes in cans? I am sure that I have met some people along the way who would be glad to \u201cget some religion\u201d if they could just get it in a small, inexpensive, easily-accessible package\u2014like a can\u2026.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Christianity Evolved?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

In a Bible class I attended several months ago, we were discussing some of the events that occurred in the period between the Testaments. This period of about four centuries is not recorded by the inspired writers, but the uninspired record makes for some informative and interesting reading for the Bible student.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Christianity, a “First Hand” Religion<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Sometimes a second-hand car gives good service; a second-hand religion never does. The religion of Christ must always be first-hand.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Christians Regardless<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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By the time Paul wrote to the Philippians he had learned the lesson of being content to serve Christ faithfully regardless of the hostile circumstances or forces he faced<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Christmas\u2014That Time of Year Again<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The birth of Christ is certainly among the most important (supernatural) events in the overall history of the world. It was\/is a cause for great joy\u2014something which God saw fit to have recorded in His Word….<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Church Discipline\u2014The Real Reason Why it is not Practiced<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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While cases involving the exercise of discipline in the church may vary greatly and may depend on many factors, I believe our failure to practice appropriate discipline may almost invariably be traced to a lack of love for the souls in need of the discipline.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Church Growth<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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There is a principle observable that explains both rapid growth periods and non-growth periods: The fields are not equally ripe for harvesting everywhere at all times. Some places are “in season” while others are “out of season”…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Church Renovation<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cChurch Undergoes Renovation,\u201d the newspaper headline read. The words were positioned above a photo of a church building surrounded by scaffolding, with workmen on its roof. The article described the modernization of a church building<\/strong>, which the article referred to in common\u2014albeit mistaken\u2014parlance as a \u201cchurch.\u201d\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Churches with No Elders<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The question is sometimes asked, \u201cCan a church Scripturally exist if it has no elders\/bishops?\u201d This very practical question deserves a Scriptural answer.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Cleansing the Temple<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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When brethren decide they do not like some activity that is being practiced in the church building they will sometimes say, \u201cWe need to cleanse the temple\u201d and cite these examples of the Lord…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Come Forth, My People”\u2014No. 1<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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When John heard the angel announce the impending doom of \u201cBabylon,\u201d another heavenly voice warned, \u201cCome forth, my people, out of her, that ye have no fellowship with her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues\u201d (Rev. 18:4)\u2026. <\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Come Forth, My People”\u2014No. 2<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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When the \u201cBabylon\u201d of the first century was about to be destroyed, God’s faithful people were strongly warned: \u201cCome forth, my people, out of her, that ye have no fellowship with her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Come Forth, My People”\u2014No. 3<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

One of the stated purposes of this warning (which should be sufficient to motivate one to depart from such corruption) is to prevent any further fellowship with error and evil. <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

“Come Forth, My People”\u2014No. 4<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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What are faithful saints who are in a congregation whose elders and preacher are not at all concerned with abiding in the “old paths” to do? The Lord’s answer is clear: <\/span><\/em>“Come forth, my people, out of her,\u2026”<\/b><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Come Forth, My People”\u2014No. 5<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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This surely applies to one who wants to serve God faithfully, but who is in a congregation that has drifted into liberalism and apostasy.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Come Forth, My People\u2014No. 6<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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The clear warning of the Lord to His people in figurative “Babylon” of the first century applies to the Lord’s people in any age who are part of corrupt or apostate institutions\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

“Come Forth, My People”\u2014No. 7<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In spite of the numerous compelling reasons why Truth-loving brethren should have nothing to do with an apostate religious body (even if it falsely still sports a Church of Christ sign on its property), a large number of them continue to do so. They offer various excuses for their behavior:\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

“Come Forth, My People”\u2014No. 8<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Good people who are in bad churches need to hear the Lord’s warning in Revelation 18:4:\u2026Faithful brethren who continue in liberal, apostate churches offer various excuses for doing so.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

“Come Forth, My People”\u2014No. 9<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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When brethren who are faithful at heart find themselves in a congregation that is no longer faithful, they often have great difficulty leaving.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

“Come Forth, My People”\u2014No. 10<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Some good brethren have become aware that their congregation, though once strong for the Truth, now practices the errors it once opposed and vice versa.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Come Forth, My People”\u2014No. 11<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Saints who want to be loyal to the Truth often find themselves in a congregation nowadays that no longer is.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“Come Forth, My People”\u2014No. 12<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

When Christians who love the Truth find themselves in a congregation in which the authority of God’s Truth is mocked by liberalism and apostasy, they sometimes find it hard to break free.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“Come Forth, My People”\u2014No. 13<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\n

“This church has many problems in doctrine and practice, but so did the Corinthian church and Paul still called it a \u2018church of God.\u2019” Liberals have so often made this justification of apostate congregations that even some otherwise sound brethren now parrot it to justify remaining in a corrupt church.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Compassion<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Among the many attractive and ennobling traits of character urged upon servants of God and followers of Christ is compassion. Even those who possess no compassion admire and appreciate this trait in others.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Compassion Fruit Juice<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Compassion means \u201cto feel with.\u201d The Gospel accounts frequently call attention to the Lord\u2019s compassion….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Consequences of Premillennialism<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Premillennial view of the Bible holds that Christ will return to the earth, establish a literal kingdom in Jerusalem, and reign 1,000 years (a millennium) on David’s throne. “So what?”<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Contributions You Can Make<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Some members of the church are far too modest in their assessment of what they can do to help the Lord\u2019s cause. Many have convinced themselves that they cannot do anything, since they cannot lead singing or preach, and they become quite content to do little or nothing. However,… <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Conversion Confusion<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Conversion<\/span> is the theme of the New Testament. It embraces redemption, forgiveness, and salvation\u2014the purpose of Jesus\u2019 coming.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Corinth, the Carnal Church<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In the 1st century, Corinth was a cosmopolitan city of Greeks, Romans, and Jews, numbering about 500,000\u2014a large percentage of which were slaves.Immorality invaded every sphere of life, including religion, as the temple of Aphrodite maintained over 1,000 prostitutes. Corinth was synonymous with corrupt even in that wicked era.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Criticism<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Jesus warned that some would reproach us and say all manner of evil against us (Mat. 5:11\u201312). How should we respond to criticism?\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Dare to Go Bare”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The title above is taken from a recent advertisement in a national women\u2019s magazine, according to an AP news story. It is part of a campaign by the American Sunbathing Association to attract the general public to the world of nudism.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Darwinism and Morality<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Until about fifty years ago in America, lasciviousness, adultery, and fornication were almost universally deemed reprehensible. Divorce was shameful, pornography was underground, and homosexuality was illegal. These elements are now on open display and enjoy wide approval\u2014and participation.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Dedicated Parents<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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There are admittedly many factors, involving both inheritance and environment, that may affect the overall development of children. Surely, it will not be denied that there is no single factor more directly bearing on a child’s general development than his parents\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Denominationalism<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Denominationalism refers to a \u201cdenominational or sectarian spirit or policy; the tendency to divide into denominations or sects\u201d (Random House College Dictionary). In religion, the term refers to the multitude (some count thousands) of religious bodies professing belief in Jesus the Christ as the only begotten Son of God….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Denominationalism in the New Testament<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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When Jesus said, \u201cI will build my church,\u201d the farthest thing from His mind was the prevailing denominational structure by those who would profess belief in Him. This structure includes Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant institutions with their profusion of names, doctrines, and practices and their resultant sectarianism.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Denominationalism or the Church<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Thoughtful Bible students realize that denominational \u201cchurchianity\u201d bears no resemblance to New Testament Christianity. It is not only fundamentally un<\/strong>denominational; it is anti<\/strong>-denominational\u2026.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Destructible Deities<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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When a Buddhist temple burned in a Texas city, the image of Buddha, their object of worship, melted. While none should rejoice in the property loss our fellow-citizens sustained, the melted Buddha provokes reflection on the great contrasts between Christianity and the pagan \u201cworld religions\u201d\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Did Jesus Believe in Hell<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Hell has fallen on \u201chard times.\u201d It is rarely mentioned except in a context of cursing, swearing, or deprecation. Some claim to believe it exists but profess to know no one sufficiently evil to deserve it….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Did Jesus Die in Vain?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The entire Christian system centers around the death of Jesus on the cross. He \u201cdied for the ungodly\u201d (Rom. 5:6, 8). He \u201claid down his life for us\u201d (1 John 3:16). In spite of numerous like statements of Scripture, certain things, if true, would mean that Christ died in vain….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Did Jesus Have Long Hair?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

It is a common misconception that Jesus wore shoulder-length hair. Many have used this myth to justify long hair on males today. What does history reveal about this matter?\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Did They Do Rightly?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Is it a sin to forsake (abandon, intentionally keep oneself from) the public meetings of the church? Hebrews 10:25 bears directly on this question:…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Digression and Division<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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A century ago, those who were determined to have what pleased them in religion (primarily musical instruments in worship and the missionary society) were willing to sacrifice respect for both the statement and the silence of Scripture to have their idols.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Disinherited Children<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Joan Crawford, the famous movie star of several decades back, left some of her children out of her will.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span>Can\u2014and will\u2014God ever disinherit His children?\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Do Elders Have Authority?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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There is a strong element in the church which denies that elders have any authority in a local congregation, except that which inheres in their example (which equals no authority at all).<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Do Numbers Equal Strength?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Bible urges Christians to grow and mature in the faith and to thereby become strong (Eph. 6:10, et al.). What God desires for His individual saints, He also desires for the local congregations of His church….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Do We Realize What We Have<\/a>?<\/span><\/p>\n

One of the greatest advantages that a person can be given in life is to be trained from birth as a child of God.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Do You Desire to Have a Home in Heaven?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

If you have this desire, stop long enough to consider this: Will the religion you practice lead you to this reward promised to the Christian? I am sure you are firmly convinced that it will, however,\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Do You Love Jesus?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The apostle Paul lent significance to the question above as he wrote: \u201cIf any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema…\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Do You Really Love God?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Jesus said that the first and great commandment to men is to love the Lord with all one\u2019s heart, soul, strength, and mind. If all righteous human conduct is compressed into this simple statement, it becomes essential that we comprehend what it really means to love God.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Doctrine and Unity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Some say, “It is not doctrine that unites us, it is love.” Scriptural unity surely involves love between the parties concerned, but it requires far more….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Down with “Doters”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Paul warned of those who consent not to the sound doctrine of Christ, but who are \u201cproud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions . . .\u201d (1 Tim. 6:3\u20135).<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Dumbing Down the Message<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Ought we not to so speak and write that, to the best of our knowledge and abilities, we \u201cadorn the doctrine of God\u201d (Tit. 2:10), rather than detracting from it by ridiculous and silly expressions?<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Early Postmodernism<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cPostmodernism\u201d is the ascendant philosophy. To mention postmodernism implies its antecedent, modernism. Modernism attempts to explain all things by nature.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Eating in the Church Building<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The apostolic church enjoyed common meals in their places of worship, and these meals were formally designated by the term, “love feasts”….<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Editorial Responsibility<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Editors and publishers of religious material have a weighty responsibility. I have in mind editors of church bulletins, periodicals, and books and publishing houses.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Elders and the Unruly<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

There are three key passages of Scripture that place the responsibility of local church discipline upon the elders\u2026To summarize, it is the duty of elders to watch for false teachers, to try to convict them of their errors, but if this is not possible, to silence them and prevent further conversions to their errors.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Elders Are Not “Lords Over” the Local Church<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Every context in the New Testament having to do with the responsibilities of elders of the church speaks of the authority of the eldership. This is plain enough in the English translations, but it becomes even more convincing when one studies the Greek terms involved….<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“Elders in Every Church”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The words of the title above are from a passage in which Luke describes work that Paul and Barnabas did as they made their way back to Antioch on Paul\u2019s initial preaching trip.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Elders\u2014Must All Have All the Qualifications<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Among the clever and devious devices brethren have come up with to avoid the force and stringency of the pastoral qualifications is the claim that as long as the entire group of elders possesses all of the qualifications of Scripture, the qualifications are thereby satisfied.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Elements of “Conversion”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Jesus said: \u201cExcept ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven\u201d (Mat. 18:3, KJV). It is thus imperative that we comprehend and fulfill the requirements of conversion…<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Emphasis on Money<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Sometimes the complaint is registered that “the church emphasizes money too much.” A preacher friend once told me of hearing this complaint from a family where he preached. The circumstances behind the complaint were …<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Emphasizing “the Basics”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Any time men stray very far from \u201cthe basics,\u201d they fall far below their potential. A football team can have splendid athletes but neglecting crisp blocking and sure tackling neutralizes its superior athletic ability….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Enemies of the Cross”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In the mildest of his epistles (in terms of rebuke and correction), the apostle Paul nonetheless warned the Philippian saints of \u201cenemies of the cross of Christ\u201d (3:18\u201319),\u2026 Notably, Paul here made the cross the apex, summary, and symbol of Jesus\u2019 earthly life and work (His purpose in coming, His doctrine, His church, et al.).<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Equal Opportunity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Businesses often include in their advertisements for employees that they offer \u201cequal opportunity.\u201d This statement means that they do not discriminate against applicants\/employees on the basis of immutable traits (race, gender, age, disability, etc.).…<\/span><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Equal Responsibility<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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It is strange how many experts there are on preaching and teaching who have never done any of either one. As some would have it, it was all Paul\u2019s fault (a dry, dull, lengthy sermon, no doubt) that a fine teenager like Eutychus went to sleep in the assembly\u2026<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Ethics and Morals<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Fyodor Dostoyevsky wrote the classic novel, The Brothers Karamazov. Whatever else might be said of Dostoyevsky, he grasped one of the essential implications of Atheism, Humanism, and Naturalism. He had Ivan (one of his characters) observe: \u201cIf there is no God, everything is permitted.\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Evangelize! Evangelize!”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The English word evangelize does not appear in the common versions of the New Testament. Yet, it is an imminently Scriptural word.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Excuse Hunting<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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It’s often been said that when a person does not want to do something, one excuse is as good as another. This is also true about things we want to do.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Faith and Works<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Are men saved by faith or works? Roman Catholicism offers salvation based on works of merit. In 1517, Martin Luther rebelled against Catholicism specifically over the sale of indulgences (i.e., permits) to sin, but more generally, over the broader \u201csalvation by meritorious works\u201d approach of the Catholic church. His opposition to that unscriptural system caused him to swing to the opposite extreme and father the doctrine of \u201csalvation by faith only.\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Faith in the Bible<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Biblical faith is not <\/b>mere wishful thinking, wherein one wishes for something so much he convinces himself it exists. This concept is one of \u201cpie in the sky,\u201d leap-in-the-dark desire with no reason or evidence for it. Biblical faith is not mere probability that God exists, Christ is the Son of God, or the Bible is the Word of God. This is agnosticism….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Faithfulness<\/a>“<\/span><\/p>\n

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Our English word “faithful” occurs 51 times in the ASV New Testament. Kindred ideas include constancy, steadiness, reliability, trustworthiness, loyalty and dependability. Since God is faithful, we are assured that He will keep His Word….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Fellowship and Family Members<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Perhaps no Christian family has escaped seeing a family member depart from the faith, either in doctrine or behavior (or in both). When a husband, wife, son, daughter, brother, or sister falls away or becomes involved in doctrinal error or support of a false teacher, what are the faithful family members to do?\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Fickle Subjectivism<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Our times are characterized by religious convictions based solely upon feelings and experiences. This phenomenon has always been a trademark of Pentecostalism, but it now infects and affects all of the sects (and not a few brethren, as well). Multitudes of religionists trust their eternal destiny to no more than what they like or their feelings….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

First or Twenty-first?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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A pressing question for all who are serious about Christianity is, \u201cDid the Son of God intend for His church to remain in its inspired, apostolic form only for their time or for all time?\u201d Does the assertion, <\/span><\/em>We don\u2019t need a first-century church, but a twenty-first century church<\/span>, represent Biblical teaching or human opinion?\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Flawed Principles for Making Moral Decisions<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Making moral decisions has to do with confronting day-by-day temptations and behavior options. Everyone operates by some set of \u201cmoral standards\u201d that determine his\/her behavior, even if they are immoral. Some of the faulty <\/b>principles men follow are:…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Follow the Pattern<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Most of those who profess any degree of allegiance to Jesus believe each person has an almost unlimited freedom to choose his own doctrines and practices. Almost all labor under the devilish heresy that “it makes no difference what you believe (after you initially believe, of course) as long as you are sincere.”<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Fools\u2014Ancient and Modern<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In Romans 1:19\u201321, Paul, the irrepressible apostle of Christ, described the Atheists, Humanists, and Secularists of ages past, declaring of them, \u201cProfessing themselves to be wise, they became fools\u201d (v. 22).<\/span><\/em>….<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

For Faithful Christians<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Too much of our writing, preaching, and visiting is directed to the weak and unfaithful. \u00a0We want to reverse that order. This brief article is not addressed to you who must be begged, petted, and pampered before you will attend Bible class and worship assemblies of the church, and still are absent as often as you are present.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

For Parents of Teenagers<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

A few years ago, I wrote some lines on this subject prefaced by a confession of feeling inadequate since I had no children who were teenagers at that time. I also noted that I would likely feel even more inadequate when I had some teenagers….<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“For the Truth’s Sake”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The title of this article appears in 2 John 2. John addressed this brief letter to one whom he and others loved “for the truth’s sake.”<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“Forget the Church\u2014Follow Jesus<\/a>“<\/span><\/p>\n

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Thus screamed the cover of <\/span><\/em>Newsweek <\/span>magazine<\/em> (April<\/span> 9, 2012). The cover pointed to an article inside (by Andrew Sullivan) titled: \u201cThe Forgotten Jesus.\u201d <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Fornication and Adultery<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Fornication and adultery were once, without hesitation, deemed \u201csinful\u201d\u2014forbidden by God and sources of shame and disgrace to the vast majority of US citizens. Lamentably, such behavior has become commonplace, promoted relentlessly by the industries of entertainment, advertising, fashion, and public education\u2014and even some churches.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Four Fruits of Love<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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When Jesus said, \u201cBy their fruits ye shall know them,\u201d He was talking about true and false prophets (Mat. 7:15\u201320). The principle is one that we commonly apply to our varied experiences. I want to apply it to the quality called \u201clove.\u201d\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Four Hearts<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The title above doesn\u2019t refer to a \u201chand\u201d in a card game. Rather, it relates to Jesus\u2019 parable about a farmer who sowed seed in his field (Luke 8:5\u201315). Of the thirty or so parables He told, this is one of the very few that He explained in detail. He tells us plainly: \u201cThe seed is the word of God\u201d (v. 11)\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Fringe Area” Christianity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

In spite of the numerous TV transmitters that dot the map of our nation, there are still some remote spots that can only barely receive a <\/span>picture. These are called \u201cfringe areas\u201d. The picture they receive is very poor and hardly worth watching.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

From Heaven or From Men?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Jesus\u2019 once asked the Jewish rulers if the baptism of John was of Heaven or of men (Mat. 21:25). In doing so, he exhausted all possibilities. The wicked Jews knew better than to argue that there was a third possible source of authority. Every doctrine and practice in religion is either authorized by God\u2014or it is human in origin.\u2026 <\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Fully Armed<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Because Satan is such a formidable foe, and we are so weak by ourselves, we must be well-armed. The armament which the Lord supplies is sufficient, both for protection and for attack….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Get Involved in Worship<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

In recent years there has been considerable discussion among brethren about getting more people involved in worship. No one will question that anyone who pretends to be a servant of God must thus involve himself. I do, however, question what some have meant by “involvement.”<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Getting Into Christ<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Those who leave baptism and its Scriptural function out of the Gospel plan of salvation would do well to repent while they still have time.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Getting the Most From Your Bible<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The Bible is a unique book. Of the millions of books that have been written, it alone is from God. While it is the revelation of God\u2019s mind to men, it still has several things in common with all other books.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“\u2026Give Him no Greeting<\/a>“<\/span><\/p>\n

John wrote, “If any one cometh unto you, and bringeth not this teaching, . . . give him no greeting: for he that giveth him greeting partaketh in his evil works”….<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

God and Caesar<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The will of God and the judgments of men must inevitably clash. The servants of God are to render to each (God and Caesar) the things that are appropriate (Mat. 22:21). However, at times the rendering of obedience to civil government would cause us to ignore or disobey Divine law.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

God and Good Will Triumph<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The Revelation was given to John to restore hope and strengthen resolve in the beleaguered and harassed saints at the close of the first century. \u00a0The message of that grand book is that despite tribulation, suffering, prison and even death for the faith, they could still triumph over their unbelieving enemies if they would be faithful\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

God Blesses the “I Canners”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Think about the great servants of God through the Bible\u2014people who really made their lives count. Every one of them was an “I canner.\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

God Cannot Do Some Things<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Bible abounds with claims of God\u2019s omnipotence, yet because of His very nature, there are some things God cannot do….<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

God Does Not Know Some Things<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In numerous statements the Bible proclaims God\u2019s omniscience\u2014He knows all things (Rom. 11:33\u201334; 1 John 3:20b; et al.) In spite of these plain averments\u2026.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“God is No Respecter\u2026”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In the house of the Gentile, Cornelius, the apostle Peter arrived at a dramatic conclusion for a biased Jew: \u201cGod is no respecter of persons, but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness is acceptable to him\u201d (Acts 10:34\u201335). He then did the unthinkable for a Jew, offering salvation to his Gentile audience through the Gospel\u2026.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

God…Hath Spoken<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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God, having of old time spoken unto the fathers in the prophets by divers portions and in divers manners, hath at the end of these days spoken unto us in his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom also he made the worlds….<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

God’s Grace Is Exclusive<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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While God wills that all men be saved (1 Tim. 2:4), this is the statement of his ideal will. His ideal will and His conditional will are not the same, however. He created us with free will, and our free will stands between these two….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

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God\u2019s Grace Is Inclusive<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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God does not desire that only some be saved, but He \u201cwould have all men to be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth\u201d….He is longsuffering, \u201cnot wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance\u201d…. To this end, the Christ \u201cgave himself a ransom for all\u201d…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

God’s Plan of Salvation<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

If there is one thing that one must learn in life, it is God\u2019s plan of salvation.\u2026A counterfeit plan requiring either more or less than God\u2019s Word teaches will condemn\u2026<\/i><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Godliness<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Contrary to popular belief, godliness does not mean \u201cgodlikeness\u201d or to imitate God. Rather, it means to be devout or pious, to revere, fear, or worship God, to have a Godward attitude, to do that which is well-pleasing to God (cf. Vine, Thayer).<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

God’s Grace\u2014What it Does Not Do<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Grace in the Bible refers to God\u2019s favor men do not deserve and cannot merit. Few subjects are more widely misunderstood\u2014or perverted. It is imperative that men understand this Bible doctrine, for our salvation depends upon it.<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Godliness<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Contrary to popular belief, godliness does not mean \u201cgodlikeness\u201d or imitating God. Rather, it means to be devout or pious, to revere, fear, or worship God, to have a Godward attitude, to do that which is well-pleasing to God<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Godliness Pays!<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Bible constantly exhorts its readers to godly living. The worldly-minded ridicule godliness, believing it only means hardship and deprivation. The Bible says it pays: \u201cGodliness is profitable for all things…\u201d and \u201cGodliness…is great gain\u201d (1 Tim. 4:8; 6:6). Millions who have tried it through the centuries know it is so. How does it pay?…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Good Bye, God”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Some people think they can attend church once on Sunday, wave “Goodbye\u201d to God, and not give Him another thought until next Sunday. In the intervening days they may defraud, curse, falsify, and frequent places unfrequented by Christ, but they paid their respects Sunday and can dismiss God for the week.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Good Worship Manners<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The God we worship in our assemblies is not a God of confusion, but One who wants everything done decently and in order (1 Cor. 14:33; 40). Perhaps with a little more consideration for this principle, for others, and for our own behavior, we can improve our \u201cworship manners,\u201d….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Goodness and Severity of God<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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God was severe toward His chosen people, the Jews, because they \u201cfell\u201d in unbelief. In His goodness, however, He accepted the Gentiles because of their faith, but warned them that He would also reject them if they fell….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Grapes of Thorns?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In the process of warning about the grave dangers of listening to false prophets, Jesus said, \u201cBy their fruits ye shall know them. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?\u201d (Mat. 7:15\u201316). Jesus made a spiritual application of this general, axiomatic principle.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Growing Up<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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While on this earth, no person will ever attain a maturity beyond which he needs no further growth. Maturity among men is, therefore, always a relative thing. The process of maturing directly applies to the Christian life.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Have Miracles Ceased?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Many modern religionists claim the power to perform the same miracles and signs as those recorded in the Bible. Claiming and doing are two different things.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Have You Started Your Retirement Plan<\/a>?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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It\u2019s important to realize that there is nothing un-Christian about preparing and planning for the future by saving some of our money today…However, with all the current emphasis on retiring comfortably in this <\/b>life, is it possible that we are forgetting about another <\/b>retirement that we all have to face some day?…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Have We Surrendered All Modesty?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

I fear that many parents of youngsters in their teen years have failed to teach them any sense of modesty. Perhaps this is so because many of us didn\u2019t learn much about it from our parents.\u2026<\/em><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Heat and Light<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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During winter we are reminded of the need for heat. Without it we would freeze. As darkness approaches each evening we are reminded of the need for light. Without light, the ability to see would be useless and our eyes would eventually atrophy. For life to continue there must be both heat and light. What is true physically is no less true spiritually….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Hell at Last!<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Concerning the unrighteous and the righteous, respectively, at The Judgment, Jesus Christ, the loving, merciful Savior, stated: \u201cAnd these shall go away into eternal punishment: but the righteous into eternal life\u201d (Mat. 25:46). To be consistent, denial of Hell demands denial of Heaven\u2026.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Hell Is a Reality!<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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A few years ago, major radio station in Dallas sent a reporter into the streets with the question, \u201cWho\u2019s going to hell?\u201d Ninety-eight percent of the five hundred people surveyed could not think of anyone they knew who might be bound for the lake of fire.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Here’s How…”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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A leaflet making the rounds purports to instruct us on the way to have \u201can eternal relationship with God.\u201d The suggested four-point plan\u2026.<\/span><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

History<\/a> Repeats<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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A century and a half ago, a few brethren who were determined to have what pleased them in religion were willing to sacrifice respect for both the statement and the silence of Scripture in order to have their idols (primarily musical instruments and separate evangelistic organizations).\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Holy Spirit Baptism<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The New Testament describes only two cases of baptism in the Holy Spirit. The first occurrence involved Jesus\u2019 promise to the apostles. Just before His ascension, the Lord told them to remain in Jerusalem where, said He, \u201c…ye shall be baptized in the Holy Spirit not many days hence\u201d….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Holy Spirit Baptism Q and A<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Consider some common questions about Holy Spirit baptism and their answers from the Bible….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Honoring With the Lips<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Pharisees and scribes once came to Jesus, chastising Him for not honoring the traditions of their forefathers (Mat. 15:1\u20132). He responded by accusing them of violating God\u2019s commandments by their human traditions, and cited one of their traditions as proof (vv. 3\u20136).\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Horrors!<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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I have a few questions every American would do well to consider:\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

How Do You Say “I Love You”?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Surely, the case does not need to be argued that the New Testament teaches Christians to be a loving people to all men. This includes not only our fleshly kin, our friends and those we know well, and our brethren in the Lord. It includes our enemies and strangers, too\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

How Does Your Garden Grow<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In the spring of year when many people just naturally feel like tilling soil, planting things, and growing things. The weather has turned warmer, the sun seems to shine more, and all of God\u2019s wonderful creation has come back to life….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

How God Wants Us to Give<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

There is nothing more basic to Christianity than giving. Salvation through Christ and His church is the result of God’s inestimable gift of Christ (John. 3:16). God is a most generous giver by nature, and we can’t be His faithful servants without following His glorious example as closely as possible….<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

How Much Do You Know About the Bible<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Just for the fun of it, I want you to take a little test of your Bible knowledge. Don\u2019t use your Bible until you finish. Ready?…<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

How to Enjoy Being a Christian<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Have you noticed that some people really enjoy being Christians and others seem completely bored by the Lord\u2019s business? You may have also noticed that the former group is usually ready and willing to do anything they can to further the Cause while the latter must be begged or baited to elicit even a minimal level of service.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

How to Handle the Gospel<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Paul told Timothy to \u201chandle aright the word of truth\u201d (2 Tim. 2:15). This passage also tells us that God\u2019s approval depends upon our handling the Gospel properly. What does this involve?…I<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

How to Handle Those Empty Pews<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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I thought I had heard of every possible solution for dealing with the problem of empty pews. A while back,<\/span><\/em> Your Church <\/span>magazine carried an article titled, “Coping with Scant Numbers,” by Dr. John R. Scotford, which proposes some new ones.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

How to Preserve the Bible<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Surely, every Christian wants to see the Bible preserved. I speak not of its cover and paper, but of its words. The best-preserved binding and paper may indicate an utter neglect of the contents.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

How<\/a> to Study Your Bible<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

People often approach Bible study in a rather strange manner. One person said he just began studying wherever his Bible happened to open. With this approach, it is no wonder that people cannot understand the Bible.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

How We May Triumph<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

God’s Word clearly teaches that each one of us can triumph over Satan and his snares. However, even those who understand and believe this sometimes err greatly in their conception of how the victory will be accomplished.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Humility and Service<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In 1 Peter 5:5\u20136, we read the following significant exhortation: “Yea, all of you gird yourselves with humility, to serve one another; for God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.”…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Hurtful Heroes<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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When people adopt the wrong heroes, they make a fatal mistake. We invariably become like the God we worship, and heroes can become our gods before we realize it.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“I Commend unto You Phoebe”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Paul wrote to the Roman brethren: “I commend unto you Phoebe our sister, . . . that ye receive her in the Lord, worthily of the saints…” (Rom. 16:1\u20132). I conclude from this passage that as faithful saints move about it is both Scriptural and wise to take with them such a letter from respected brethren….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

I Like Drumsticks<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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I always did like drumsticks. I just can’t get along without eating one every 20 or 30 minutes. In fact, I like them so well that I eat one every morning before breakfast and another while I am dressing. I depend on them so much that I can’t sleep at night if I don’t have my bedtime drumstick.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“I Shall Not Be Moved”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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These are times in which many, even some who have been strong in the past, are found moving with the ever-changing doctrinal winds and currents. We will do well to consider some of the many areas concerning which each Christian should say with determination, \u201cI shall not be moved\u201d:<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

“I Thank My God\u2026”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Sometimes I get “bogged down” in thoughts about those who are careless about the way they live. Undeniably, there are many who can’t be counted on, who can’t be motivated to get really serious about being Christians,\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

I’m a Hard-shelled Fundamentalist<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

A recent newspaper carried a column by Dick Kleiner, a Hollywood reporter, announcing the upcoming release of a new film entitled,<\/span><\/em>The Rebel Jesus<\/span>\u2026.if the news story is correct, <\/span><\/em>The Rebel Jesus<\/span> will out-blaspheme even the super-blasphemous <\/span><\/em>Jesus Christ <\/span>Superstar<\/span> and its companion, <\/span><\/em>Godspell<\/span>.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“I’m Not Very Compatible with the Church”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Several years ago I was visiting with a young man who had attended worship and Bible classes frequently where I preached\u2026.I had not seen him at worship … so I mentioned this to him…. He replied,…\u201cI\u2019m not very compatible with the church.\u201d…<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

I’m Sick of Progress<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Progress is a relative term. To a skunk progress is squirting a hunting dog in the face and escaping. But the dog would not call that \u201cprogress.\u201d So with humans. What is progress to one is the opposite to another.<\/em><\/span><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“If and Only If…”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The title above expresses a formula in logic and mathematics regarding compound statements (biconditionals). The formula (abbrev. as IFF) applies only when (i.e., \u201cif and only if\u201d) both statements are of exactly the same \u201ctruth value.\u201d The IFF formula is a powerful way of expressing propositional facts and truths that are incontrovertible.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

If Any Man Willeth…<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The most important factor in genuine obedience to God is found in the following words of Jesus; \u201cIf any man willeth to do His will, He shall know of the teaching, whether it is of God, or whether I speak from myself\u201d (John 7:17).<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

If Darwin Was Right\u2026<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Charles Darwin was born 2 centuries ago (1809). Even those who reject his premises cannot deny the impact of them on mankind. Along with the \u201csea change\u201d Darwinian evolution has wrought in science, its effect upon religion and morals has perhaps been even more incalculable.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Ignoring Scientific Methods<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

A brief article in a newspaper attracted my attention recently (Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11\/24\/76). Headlined “Death of Russian Scientist Told,” and datelined Moscow, it told of the death of Trofim Lysenko, November 23. The one-paragraph article states that his theories were “more sound politically than experimentally.\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Implications of Sin<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Only a few decades ago, the majority of US citizens acknowledged the existence of and consequences of sin. A vast number of our citizens now deny sin\u2019s existence\u2014by their deeds, if not by their words….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Implied Principles for Making Moral Decisions<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Every time we encounter temptation to do that which would violate our moral scruples, we must make a decision to resist or yield….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Impressed With Numbers<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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We notice it when a business or service attracts a large clientele. An advertisement recently stated, \u201c15 million people can\u2019t be wrong.\u201d Likewise, when a religious group manifests rapid numerical growth in a short period, some say, \u201cThey must be doing something right.\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Influence<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The Bible says much about influence, both that which we have on others and that which others have on us.\u2026How careful must we be concerning influence, both our own upon others and that of others on us.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Ingredients of Evangelism<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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No subject is more vital to sincere saints than evangelism. Jesus made it our first responsibility when He issued the Great Commission It is God\u2019s means of saving the lost. It is the lifeblood of the church….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Ingredients of God’s Grace<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

In the New Testament, the \u201cgrace of God\u201d refers to the unearned and unearnable favor God has extended to men. In the classical Greek literature, this grace was extended only to friends.<\/em><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Instrumental Cravings<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The controversy over mechanical instruments of music in Christian worship began when they were first introduced ten centuries too late to be employed with Divine approval in the church of Christ.<\/em><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Intellectual Snobbery<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The not-so-well-educated should not despise the well-educated, nor should the latter despise the former. Yet, so often those who obtain advanced degrees leave behind all the humility they may have once had.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Invitation Etiquette<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

There is no time quite so crucial in our periods of worship as when the Invitation of Christ is being extended. This is a time when souls are being urged and persuaded to become obedient to Christ.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“Involvement”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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It is a lofty and Scriptural aim to have every member in each local congregation of God’s people actively serving\u2026. In spite of such exhortations, most congregations still have only 20-30 <\/span>percent of their members really “involved.”<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Involvement in Worship<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In recent years there has been considerable discussion among brethren about getting more people \u201cinvolved\u201d in worship. No one will question that every Christian must involve himself in worship. I do question, however, what some mean by \u201cinvolvement.\u201d…<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Is Anybody Going to Hell?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Anybody who thinks we are not living in an age of super tolerance just hasn\u2019t been keeping up. The philosophies and reasonings of men have convinced most of the world that they can believe anything they want to on any subject or believe nothing at all and they are still all right with God. <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Is It Authorized?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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One is not faithful to God who is not faithful to Christ (John 15:23). One is not faithful to Christ who does not honor His Word (John 12:48). God has given His Son \u201call authority\u201d (Mat. 28:18); we must scrupulously submit to it.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Is It Worth the Trouble?”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The question of our title is one of dismay, discouragement, frustration and perhaps other negative emotions. It is usually provoked by some unsuccessful, unrewarding, and unpleasant experience. It is the prelude to defeat and abandonment of effort.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Is Jesus Coming Soon?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

For many years, every time a major political crisis between nations has arisen, especially if it involved the Biblical area of Palestine,\u2026 the cry has arisen that these events signal the return of Jesus.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Is Religious Unity Possible?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Most men say, “No.” The New Testament says, “Yes.” God’s Word not only teaches the possibility<\/strong> of religious unity among those who have faith in Christ, it teaches the necessity<\/strong> of unity.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Is Sincerity Alone Sufficient?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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One of the Devil\u2019s favorite deceptions has always been, \u201cIt makes no difference what you believe, as long as you are sincere.\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Is That All There Is”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Jerry Lieber and Mike Stoller wrote a song thus titled, and Peggy Lee made a hit recording of it in 1969. Its lyrics somewhat reflected the cynicism and cultural breakdown our nation experienced beginning in the 1960s.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Is the Apple Likely to Fall Far from the Tree?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Responsible parents are naturally concerned about how their children are measuring up in the competitive environment of school. They will make sure that their children view school as a high priority and will encourage proper attention to all the required assignments, homework, and tests. <\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Is the Church Important?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The only way to have the New Testament church in existence in any age is to carefully reproduce what the Scriptures teach concerning it. Christ alone knows what He wants His church to be and to do and He has revealed this only in His Word.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Is the Church of Christ a Denomination?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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There seems to be a strong general tendency to refrain from taking a firm position on certain doctrinal and moral issues and to ignore even fatally false positions as minor matters. Several pulpiteers among us now deem themselves wise enough to improve on God\u2019s plan for the church and for man\u2019s salvation….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Is There a Second “Exception” for Divorce and Remarriage?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Many grievously misunderstand the nature of revelation\/inspiration. Some aver that only the words of Jesus (those in red letters in some Bibles) are authoritative, and the remainder of the writers reflect their personal human opinions. The 1970s militant feminists labeled Paul\u2019s doctrine relating to the God-given respective roles of men and women) as the mere opinionated rantings of a disillusioned, male-chauvinist, woman-hating bachelor\u2014unworthy of credibility; He was not Jesus!…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Is Undenominational Christianity Possible<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

To most people, \u201cdenominationalism\u201d and \u201cChristianity\u201d are the same thing. Do modern men have the courage and objectivity to accept and face what the Bible teaches about the New Testament church and denominationalism?<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“It Fills a Space”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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I have been reading church bulletins more six decades. I have served as editor of church bulletins for over five decades. At one time, the mailbox of the church where I preached received approximately 150 bulletins each week. I have literally seen almost everything there is to be seen in church bulletins.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“It Is Finished”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The end has now arrived; a final request for drink (another prophetic reference) and Jesus could no longer hold the brittle thread of life together. “It is finished,” has been variously interpreted:\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“It is Too Much…”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Many things have changed since these events of almost 3,000 years ago, but human beings still behave in many of the same ways and make the same mistakes, especially in religion. Consider some modern examples of \u201cthe Jeroboam syndrome\u201d regarding the New Testament of Christ. \u201cIt is too much…\u201d:<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

It’s That Time Again<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The end of the school year always brings with it the school prom, reviving the question of whether dancing is appropriate behavior for a Christian. Whether the older “cheek-to-cheek” style or the modern “disco” styles are considered, the issues differ little.\u2026<\/em><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Jerusalem, the Model Church<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Jerusalem is where the church began. It was no accident that the first Gospel sermon was preached there, resulting in its establishment\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Jesus’ Amazing Cross<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The centerpiece of God\u2019s plan to redeem sinful mankind\u2014yea, of history\u2014is the cross of Jesus Christ. The Gospel is the \u201cword of the cross,\u201d which is \u201cthe power and wisdom of God\u201d (1 Cor. 1:18, 23\u201324). Faithful preachers will preach the cross (2:2). Christians should glory in the cross (Gal. 6:14). The cross significantly demonstrates some extraordinary facts:\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Jesus and Socialism<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Those who espouse certain social, moral, or political agendas sometimes invoke the Bible in general or Jesus in particular for their cause (notwithstanding their disavowal of both). They thus pander to the many believers who still believe in both….<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Jesus’ Blood Keeps on Cleansing<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Many years ago (when I was a very young preacher) I believed that unless one specifically named every sin he committed and specifically asked forgiveness of each one, as he became aware of such sins, God would not forgive them. Eventually, I came to see that this was an untenable (and unscriptural) position for various reasons:<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Jesus Called Himself “The King of Kings and Lord of Lords”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

In John\u2019s vision of the victorious Christ the Lord had \u201c… on his garment and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS\u201d…<\/span><\/em>These titles are fraught with some weighty implications….<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Jesus Has a Law<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The affirmation of my title is offensive to many theologians and pulpiteers. Those offended often hurl the legalist epithet at the affirmers. \u201cNo,\u201d they say, \u201cWe are not under law, but under grace, in the Gospel age.\u201d \u2026 Let us study this subject of eternal implications by means of some questions:…<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Jesus or JINO?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Various cults and sects foreign to the New Testament claim to \u201cbelieve in Jesus.\u201d When their doctrines are compared with the Bible, however, their \u201cJesus\u201d is actually a \u201cJINO\u201d (\u201cJesus In Name Only\u201d). A case in point is the \u201cJesus\u201d of the Mormon cult (\u201cThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints\u201d):\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Jesus\u2014Mere Man or God Incarnate?<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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Was Jesus Christ merely a \u201cgood man\u201d or was he more than man?\u2026The Bible provides both the claims, and the evidence to support the claims of His Deity.<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Jesus\u2014More Than a Man<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The centerpiece of God\u2019s plan to redeem sinful mankind\u2014yea, of history\u2014is the cross of Jesus Christ. The Gospel is the \u201cword of the cross,\u201d which is \u201cthe power and wisdom of God\u201d (1 Cor. 1:18, 23\u201324). Faithful preachers will preach the cross (2:2). Christians should glory in the cross (Gal. 6:14). The cross significantly demonstrates some extraordinary facts:\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Jesus\u2014Some Why Nots of His Coming<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Jesus Himself tells us clearly why He initially came down from Heaven: \u201cFor the Son of man came to seek and to save that which was lost\u201d (Luke 19:10). At various times He also stated several things that He did not<\/strong> come to do. These \u201cwhy nots\u201d are as significant as the \u201cwhy\u201d of His First Coming.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Jesus\u2014Why He Came<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In spite of the plainness of the singularity of Jesus’ purpose in coming to earth, men still misunderstand it. They have variously set forth such purposes as political revolution and healing the sick and ailing. Political liberals\/progressives deceitfully invoke some of His words and works to bolster their program of socialism and social reform.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Jesus’ Amazing Cross<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The centerpiece of God\u2019s plan to redeem sinful mankind\u2014yea, of history\u2014is the cross of Jesus Christ. The Gospel is the \u201cWord of the cross,\u201d which is \u201cthe power and wisdom of God\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Jesus’ Testament<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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By means of a \u201clast will and testament,\u201d men indicate the desired disposition of their property at death. The title page of the latter section of our Bibles is called \u201cThe New Testament <\/b>of Jesus Christ.\u201d While uninspired publishers supplied this title page, the inspired text refers to itself as the will or testament of the Lord….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Jesus’ View of Scripture<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Is the Bible a mere curiosity piece of superb, ancient literature? Is it an irrelevant document, good for its contemporaries, but now a mere relic without modern use or application? If we could sit down with Jesus and interview Him about the Bible, what would He say to us? Would His evaluation of it make any difference?<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

John Calvin and Calvinism\u2014No. 1<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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The name of John Calvin is still nearly a household term although he has been dead over four centuries. As a religious reformer, he rode the crest of the sixteenth century reformation, a little younger, but contemporary with Luther, Zwingli, and others less notable.<\/span><\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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John Calvin and Calvinism\u2014No. 2<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Based on a misunderstanding or misapplication of certain passages , Calvin concluded that before creation, God chose (elected) certain ones to be saved and all the rest to be lost.<\/span><\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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John Calvin and Calvinism\u2014No. 3<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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The second major platform of Calvinism has to do with the atonement of Christ for sin. Calvinism teaches a limited atonement, denying that Christ died for all men or for the whole world. This is absolutely required by the prior assumption of the Calvinistic doctrine of unconditional election or predestination.<\/span><\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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John Calvin and Calvinism\u2014No. 4<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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The third foundation principle of Calvinistic theology relates to the nature of man.\u2026The doctrine simply argues that the \u201coriginal\u201d sin of Adam and Eve has been inherited by every human being, causing us to be sinners from birth and incapable of doing any good things.<\/span><\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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John Calvin and Calvinism\u2014No. 5<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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The fourth plank in the Calvinistic platform relates to the grace of God and the free will of man. This point flows naturally from the previous one. If man is born in sin, incapable of any good, then his free will has been taken from him to serve God if he chooses.<\/span><\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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John Calvin and Calvinism\u2014No. 6<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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The final point of Calvinistic theology relates to \u201cPerseverance of the saints.\u2026”\u00a0This doctrine, commonly termed, \u201cOne saved, always saved,\u201d is based upon one of John Calvin\u2019s prior erroneous assumptions.<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
John\u2014Whom the Lord Called “None Greater”<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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Jesus gave unparalleled commendation to his kinsman, the prophet John: \u201cAmong them that are born of women there hath not arisen a greater than John the Baptist\u201d (Mat. 11:11). Let us explore some possible reasons for this unique accolade.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Jonathan Livingston Seagull:<\/a><\/span><\/em>A Critical Review<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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In the mid-1970s, Jonathan Livingston Seagull, a diminutive book by Richard Bach, captivated American readers, breaking sales records in both hard back and paperback editions, and the movie version played to packed theaters.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Judaism Restored?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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While the whole premillennial system is contrary to explicit Bible teaching, the claim that the law of Moses will be reinstated has to be one of the most blatantly and outrageously anti-Biblical doctrines ever invented.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Judge Not…<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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When Jesus said, \u201cJudge not, that ye be not judged\u201d (Mat. 7:1), he was not merely uttering good advice, but a prohibition, a strong negative command. Unless we understand what kind of \u201cjudging\u201d the Lord prohibits, we will do much abuse to this passage.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Judge Not-so-bad-win<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The incident I discuss below could serve as a \u201cSaturday Night Life\u201d script. It might be something to laugh at if it were fictional, but it isn\u2019t. It demonstrates just how far into the maelstrom of absolute God-hating Humanism (to say nothing of idiocy) some who are in places of great power have sunk.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Judgment Day Surprises<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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One of the recurring themes of the New Testament is that of the final accounting that all men must make before their Creator\u2014The Day of Judgment. Jesus described it in some detail (Mat. 7:21\u201323; 25:31\u201346). The final New Testament book emphasizes The Judgment near its close (Rev. 20:11\u201315). Hardly a New Testament book fails to mention it.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Just what the Patient Ordered<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Suppose a patient who had some sort of ailment he could not overcome with home remedies went to the doctor for help. Suppose this patient tells the doctor about his problem, the doctor does an examination, makes his diagnosis, and is ready to prescribe the treatment.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Kids, Avoid the Plague<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Yesterday I wrote a note to a dear friend whose seventeen-year-old son was arrested last week. He was booked for possession and sale of marijuana. He is out on $5,000 bond. This young man was reared in a fine Christian home.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Kingdom<\/em> in Matthew 13:41<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Jesus said, “The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that cause stumbling, and them that do iniquity.” To what does the “kingdom” here refer?<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Laid Back, Hip\u2014and Irreverent?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The general abandonment of decorum in society over a couple of generations has obviously had its impact on the Lord\u2019s people\u2014especially observable in our worship assemblies. I preached in a Gospel meeting several years ago before which the local preacher told me that the brethren were \u201claid back\u201d in the way they dressed for worship….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Law and Grace<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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If God deals with men through law, does this exclude God’s grace? If God is gracious toward men, does this mean that men are not under any law to God?<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Law and Love Combining\u2026”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Priscilla Jane Owens (1829\u20131907) penned several hymn poems, among them, \u201cGive Me the Bible.\u201d She wrote these lyrics in the 19th century before it became popular\u2014even among theologians\u2014to debunk, demote, and attempt to destroy the authority of Holy Writ.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

Led by The Spirit<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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One is not a Christian unless he is led by the Spirit: \u201cFor as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God\u201d (Rom. 8:14). How does God lead His children through the Holy Spirit?…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Legalism or Love<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Those who do not want to obey the teachings of the New Testament often accuse those of \u201clegalism\u201d who dare emphasize obedience to God\u2019s commands. Legalism is defined as \u201cstrict, or excessive conformity to the law.\u201d In the religious context, this definition refers to God\u2019s Law.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Lessons From the Ark<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Bible story of Noah and his ark is not for little children alone. The closer I examine this event and its surroundings the more impressed I become with its basic lessons for people of all ages.\u00a0<\/span>The ark demonstrates that evil is intolerable to God.<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span> <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Lessons From the Flood<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The flood\u2019s effects are yet seen in such things as the topsy-turvy fossil strata, the strange angles of layered stone often seen in exposed mountain sides, and the like.The astute observer sees the more important effects of the flood, however, in the lessons it provides concerning the nature of God….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Let’s Party”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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It has finally come to this. A few years ago, a brother asserted that worship should be a party, a \u201ccelebration\u201d…<\/span><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Life Begins at Conception so Abortion is Murder<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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To the pro-death abortion advocates, the content of the womb is little more than a wart, an appendix, or even a tumor\u2014thus disposable. The crucial question then is, when does life and human personhood begin<\/strong>?<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Listen to Your Preacher\u2014No. 1<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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Preachers have a heavy responsibility, but so do listeners. Jesus warned, \u201cTake heed what ye hear.\u201d Not only the blind leaders \u201cfall into the ditch,\u201d but the blind followers do also.\u2026There is a great need for discriminating listeners in the pew\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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Listen to Your Preacher\u2014No. 2<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Those who listen to preachers have the responsibility to listen carefully: \u201cBeloved, believe not every spirit but prove the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets are gone out into the world.<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n
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Listen to Your Preacher\u2014No. 3<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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The hearer has no less responsibility than the preacher. Those who listen to a message concerning their souls must very carefully weigh it against what the Bible says. If it is not according to God\u2019s Word, they must reject it, for receiving it will cause them to be lost.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Little Foxes<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

All of us will make at least a few\u00a0big\u00a0<\/b>decisions in life.\u2026Despite the importance of these\u00a0big\u00a0<\/b>decisions, I am convinced that it is the little, everyday choices and decisions that are critical. They determine our daily direction and, in the final analysis, what we shall do about the\u00a0big\u00a0<\/b>decisions.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Little Word – Big Meaning<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Jesus once said, \u201cWe must work the works of him that sent me\u2026\u201d (John 9:4). “Must” refers to that which is necessary, indispensable, required, or obligatory. What are some things we must<\/strong> do?\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Lost Souls on Pentecost<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The first Pentecost Day after Jesus\u2019 ascension to Heaven found a throng in Jerusalem from \u201cevery nation under heaven\u201d (Acts 2:5). Of that number, 3,000 obeyed the apostolic message by their confessed faith, repentance, and baptism in order to receive forgiveness of their sins (vv. 37\u201341).\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Love Is Not…<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Numerous Biblical words have been wordnapped, hijacked, redefined, and misused (e.g.,grace, faith, miracle, elect, foreordained).\u00a0Love is another of these much-abused words.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“<\/a>Love Letter” or Law?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Is the New Testament merely a collection of \u201clove letters\u201d containing nothing more than polite suggestions of behavior?\u2026 Many professed believers parrot the view that the New Testament pertains exclusively to grace and love.\u2026 What shall we say to this averment?\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Loyalty<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Ann Landers once quoted Elbert Hubbard in her column. She was replying to a question about bad-mouthing one’s employer and his company.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

“Mainline” or “Sidetrack”?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In a syndicated newspaper column a few years ago, William Murchison laid bare the insipidity of the liberalism of certain “mainline” Protestant denominations. He based his column on a poll involving the Methodist, Episcopal, and United Church of Christ (not <\/b>to be confused with the church of Christ). The poll concluded:…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Making God in Man’s Image<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Mormon idea of \u201ccontinuing revelation\u201d (which various other religious groups also advocate) is about the most basic repudiation of the Bible as the Word of God that a man or a religious organization can make. Reduced to its simplest terms, it elevates the creature above the Creator….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Man Must Obey God<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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As the Israelites approached Sinai on their journey from the Red Sea to Canaan, they murmured against God. This time they complained because of hunger, accusing Moses of bringing them into the wilderness to starve. Their fickle hearts had already forgotten the rigors of Egyptian slavery,….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Man: What Is He?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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There is no higher and nobler view of man than that found in the Bible. In the Sacred Text he is presented as the special creation of a loving, all-powerful Supreme Being\u2014God<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Man, Woman, and Marriage<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Popularity, agreement with my notions, convenience, political correctness, nor any other factors affect or determine the meaning of its words to the genuine believer….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Man’s Ultimate Quest<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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All men are seeking something; this is what keeps us going. Various ones seek fame, riches, pleasure, peace, power, and other things. There is only one quest that towers over all others in importance and that should govern all other pursuits. Jesus Christ set it forth in the Sermon on the Mount:\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Mark” and “Turn Away From\u2026”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Paul’s final plea to the saints in Roman was for doctrinal purity:…<\/em>This statement is not merely a polite suggestion, but an earnest entreaty with the strength of a charge, an order, or a command….<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Marriages\u2014Simple Reasons Why They Fail<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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When a marriage fails, it is because the people<\/strong> involved have failed in one or more important characteristics. Marriage works as God intended, only when both partners<\/strong> behave as God directs.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

May We Never Rest…<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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UNTIL every soul on this earth in our age has heard the pure Gospel at least once.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

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UNTIL we have made every effort possible to relieve the human misery we see around us every day.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Militant Christianity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The radicals and liberals in our society have put the term\u00a0militant\u00a0in bad company for many of us. In their militant campaigns on college campuses and in street demonstrations, their nasty and noisy tactics, usually resulting in bloodshed, they have caused saner souls to shrink from anything that resembles their temperament.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Miracles Have Ceased<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Many thousands have been caught up in the resurgence of “Pentecostalism” in the past few years. \u2026The claim for which Pentecostals are most noted is \u201cbaptism in the Holy Spirit,\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Miracles in our Time?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Many modern religionists claim the power to perform the same miracles and signs as those recorded in the Bible. Claiming and doing are two different things….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Modesty<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Paul commanded women to \u201cadorn themselves in modest apparel\u201d (1 Tim. 2:9). The Arndt-Gingrich lexicon says that modest here means \u201chonorable,\u201d \u201crespectable.\u201d We understand Paul to be talking about wearing clothing that indicates the moral chastity, purity, and sense of decency that Christians must have….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Moses, Jesus or Both?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Most of nominal Christianity, both Catholic and Protestant, attempts to combine elements of both Old and New Covenants in their doctrine and practice. Which, if either, is the correct approach?<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Murmurers, Beware!<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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What is “murmuring”? Harper\u2019<\/sup>sAnalytical Greek Lexicon <\/span>defines the Greek word from which “murmur\u201d is translated as “a muttering, a low and suppressed discourse, the expression of secret and sullen discontent, complaint.”<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Murmuring at Marah<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Exodus 15:22\u201326 gives the account of Israel\u2019s murmuring at the bitter waters of Marah. At this very beginning part of their journey from the Red Sea toward Canaan, their water supplies were exhausted. They had hardly ceased their songs of thanksgiving and triumph before they raised a new cry….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

My Aims as a Gospel Preacher<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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It is always helpful to have a roadmap when traveling, whether on literal roadways or on the journey of life. With this in mind, I present the following as the \u201cmap\u201d I aim to follow in my life and work as a Gospel preacher:<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

My Bible and My Vote<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Do believers in God, in Jesus Christ as His Son, and in the Bible as God\u2019s Word have an obligation to evaluate candidates and\/or political parties in light of Biblical teaching when they vote? Can a Christian be faithful to Christ if he votes for a candidate who champions anti-Christian causes and principles?…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“My Kind of ‘Summit'”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

In August, 1984 a meeting styled “The Restoration Summit” was held in Joplin, MissouriIt was attended by about 50 each from the Independent Christian Church and the churches of Christ. It consisted of several brief lectures and small group discussions that tip-toed around a few of the many issues that separate the two groups.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

My Way or God’s Way?<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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A survey has found that many Americans now take a mix-and-match, build-your-own approachin religion. Loyalty to a denomination\u2014previously the norm\u2014no longer prevails.\u2026 One observer likened the phenomenon to personalizing a \u201cplaylist\u201d on an iPhone.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Narrow” Teachings of the New Testament<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Truth, whether historical, scientific, philosophical, mathematical, or religious is always narrow and exclusive.\u2026One cannot take the Bible as the supreme and only religious authority without recognizing the narrowness and exclusiveness of its teachings.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“Narrow” Truth<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Our age is dominated by broadmindedness and super-tolerance. Things that were done in the dark corners a few decades ago are now openly done because of this \u201canything goes\u201d attitude. About the only thing our liberal super-tolerant world will not tolerate is what it calls \u201cnarrow-mindedness.\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Needless Burdens<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

It occurs to me that as we travel through life toward the judgment and eternity beyond, we humans often carry with us needless burdens that both weigh us down and make the journey itself unpleasant.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

“Neither Could They Blush<\/a>“<\/span><\/p>\n

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A major factor in the destruction of God\u2019s people in the days of Jeremiah was their shamelessness: \u201cWere they ashamed when they had committed abomination? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush\u201d (Jer. 6:15). Among the \u201cworks of the flesh\u201d that will keep one out of Heaven is \u201clasciviousness\u201d\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

New Heavens and New Earth<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

This inspired passage speaks of the utter disintegration of the physical universe, as do several other passages\u2026What are the \u201cnew heavens and new earth\u201d for which the saints look and hope?<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

New Testament Conversions\u2014No. 1<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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No more practical and important material can be found in the Bible than the accounts of people being converted to Christ and His saving Truth.While \u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n

New Testament Conversions\u2014No. 2<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Gospel in its fullness was first preached on the first Pentecost after Jesus\u2019 resurrection and ascension. The record of this historic day and its dramatic results is found in Acts 2.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

New Testament Conversions\u2014No. 3<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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After Stephen was stoned to death for his bold proclamation of the Gospel, a great persecution erupted in Jerusalem, scattering disciples in all directions<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

New Testament Conversions\u2014No. 4<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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While\u00a0 Philip was in Samaria, the Lord directed him through an angel to travel to the road leading southward from Jerusalem to the deserted town of Gaza (Acts 8:26). Upon arriving there, he encountered the treasurer of the nation of Ethiopia in his chariot, returning home from worshiping in Jerusalem.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

New<\/a> Testament Conversions\u2014No. 5<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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A man named Saul is introduced to us as a co-conspirator in the murder of Stephen and a hater of Christ and Christians. His zeal was so great in persecuting the saints that he asked for authority to travel 13.5 miles north to Damascus to arrest and persecute Christians there\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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New Testament Conversions\u2014No. 6<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Cornelius is introduced to us as a man of rank in the Roman army and resident of the city of Caesarea.\u00a0He was an unusually spiritual man, described as God-fearing, devoted to God, generous with his wealth, and prayerful. Despite such admirable traits, he was not saved, not a Christian\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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New Testament Conversions\u2014No. 7<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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As far as we know, the first attempt to preach the Gospel on European soil was made by Paul and his companions in the city of Philippi.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
New Testament Conversions\u2014No. 8<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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While in the Eastern European city of Philippi, Paul and Silas were beaten and thrown into prison (Acts 16:19\u201324). Instead of bemoaning their unjust treatment, they were praying and singing God\u2019s praises, even at midnight when a great earthquake shook the prison, freeing all the prisoners\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
New Testament Conversions\u2014No. 9<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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It was the apostle Paul\u2019s custom upon entering a city where he had previously not been to seek out the Jewish populace first and reason with them about Christ as the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
New Testament Conversions\u2014No. 10<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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When Paul arrived in Ephesus, he discovered some disciples (about 12 men, Acts 19:7). He quickly realized through conversation with these men that their baptism was irregular, not according to the Gospel\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
New Testament Conversions\u2014No. 11<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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This survey covered nine distinct cases of conversion recorded in the book of Acts, in which we are given the detailed information either about what the lost were told to do to be saved, what they did to be saved, or both.<\/em><\/span><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

New Testament Worship<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Worship is man\u2019s expression of love, praise, and thanksgiving to God. In the very nature of the case, man does not know how to acceptably worship God apart from His revelation. To worship according to the teachings or feelings of men is worthless<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

New Testament Worship\u2014Studying God’s Word<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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How could preaching or teaching and hearing the Word of God be called \u201cworship\u201d? When it is remembered that worship of God is that which praises and exalts God, it is obvious.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n

New Testament Worship\u2014the Lord’s Supper<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Men build great buildings, towers, or statues as memorials to their fallen heroes. We garnish the graves of our loved ones with flowers, and, more permanently, tombstones. Jesus instituted a spiritual Supper to memorialize His atoning death<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

New Testament Worship\u2014Worshiping God With Our Money<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n

A true Christian considers the giving of his money to the Lord a privilege. While it is a privilege, it is also depicted in the Bible as a responsibility.<\/span><\/em><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

New Testament Worship\u2014Worshiping in Prayer<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Anyone who knows anything about the New Testament understands that the church of the New Testament was often found in prayer.<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
New Testament Worship\u2014Worshiping in Song<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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The singing of \u201cPsalms, hymns and spiritual songs\u201d was an important part of worship in the New Testament church. The joy and thanksgivings that Christians felt because they had been redeemed by Christ were expressed in appropriate songs.<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“No Authority Needed”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In the 1988 debate between Alan Highers and Given O. Blakely of the Independent Christian Church, Mr. Blakely attempted to justify the use of mechanical instruments of music in worship by arguing that no authority is needed. He based his argument on at least three assertions….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

No Baptism\u2014No Blood<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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With few exceptions, religious bodies professing belief in Jesus as the Christ, the only begotten of the Father, treat baptism as inconsequential. Some ignore it as if it were not in the New Testament, while others consider it \u201cimportant,\u201d but not essential to please God, with various views in between.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

No Bible Heritage?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Humanists, Secularists, political Progressives, and assorted other anti-God, anti-Christ, and anti-Bible forces are doing their best to remove all Biblical connections to our nation\u2019s history.\u2026 In spite of the best efforts of such forces, the Bible remains deeply ingrained in the public consciousness.\u2026<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“No Man Is Common<\/a>“<\/span><\/p>\n

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In the house of the Gentile, Cornelius, the apostle Peter arrived at a dramatic conclusion for a biased Jew: \u201cGod is no respecter of persons, but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness is acceptable to him\u201d(Acts 10:34\u201335).<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

No Thanks, Anytime<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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A frequently seen bumper sticker depicts a cocktail glass and the message, “No thanks, I’m driving” (I once saw one of these on one of “our” church vans!). This message is intended to warn other drivers of the multiplied tragedies that are daily caused by drunk drivers, a warning direly needed by the general public….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Noah, the “Legalist”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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When theological liberals want to cast the strongest possible aspersion on those who still believe God said what He means and means what He says in the Bible, they call him a \u201clegalist.\u201d True Bible believers accept this term as a compliment.…<\/span><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Nobody Ever Visits Me”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Occasionally some member of the church remarks, “Nobody ever visits me!” It is almost always a complaint, sometimes uttered in bitterness….<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Not Everybody’<\/em>s Doing It!<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Does it sometimes seem that everyone drinks and cheats on his or her spouse, has no real scruples about honesty and curses like a peg-legged pirate? To non-smokers it seems that everyone else smokes. Beyond debate, many people do these things and think nothing of it….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Not Heard at the Judgment<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Bible teaches that there will be a great Day of Judgment when Jesus Christ returns and that He will be the Judge on that Great Day…He will judge us by \u201cthe Word he has spoken\u201d… and according to the way we have lived… In light of these statements of Scripture, we will do well to ponder some statements that will not <\/b>be heard at the Judgment….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Not<\/em> or Now<\/em>?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Changing a single letter of a word can create a statement that directly contradicts the writer\u2019s intended expression. To misspell <\/span><\/em>not<\/span> as <\/span><\/em>now<\/span> well illustrates this fact. It is bad enough to unwittingly make such an error in a word relating to the Scriptures. It is manifestly worse when one intentionally makes such substitutions\u2026.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Notes on Musical Instruments in Worship<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Perhaps the most often asked question about the belief and practice of churches of Christ concerns this issue. This subject relates to our acceptable worship of God.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Notes on the Pentateuch\u2014No. 1 (The Book of Genesis)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Genesis\u00a0means \u201cbeginning.\u201d It reveals the beginning of everything except God. Unless one understands and believes the message of Genesis, his understanding of and belief in the rest of the Bible will be faulted.<\/span><\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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Notes on the Pentateuch\u2014No. 2. (The Book of Exodus)<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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The theme of the second book of the Bible and the source from which it draws its name is in Exodus 19:1: \u201c<\/span><\/em>In the third month after the children of Israel were gone forth out of<\/b> the land of Egypt, the same day came they into the wilderness of Sinai.\u201d Exodus means \u201cgoing out.\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Notes on the Pentateuch\u2014No. 3 (The Book of Leviticus)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Leviticus is the center book of the five books of the Law of Moses, both numerically and by subject matter. Its name derives from the priestly tribe of Levi and literally means, \u201cpertaining to the Levites.\u201d It contains the system of laws (religious, ethical, criminal, and social) to be administered by the priests in Israel.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Notes on the Pentateuch\u2014No. 4 (The Book of Numbers)<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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The Old Testament book of Numbers is named after the four important censuses of the Israelites which it records. It could also appropriately be called \u201cThe Book of Wanderings\u201d since it traces the wanderings of Israel from Sinai to Canaan.<\/span><\/em><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
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Notes on the Pentateuch\u2014No. 5 (The Book of Deuteronomy)<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Deuteronomy\u00a0means \u201csecond law,\u201d not in the sense of an additional body of law besides the one revealed in Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers, but in the sense of a repetition of the original Law.<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Now <\/em>or Not<\/em>?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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A pesky stumblingblock to proofreaders is catching the \u201ccorrect error\u201d\u2014the word that is spelled correctly, but is the wrong word. Failure to note these flaws can result in everything from nonsense to saying the opposite of one\u2019s intent.\u2026 In Biblical matters examples abound wherein men intentionally <\/b>substitute their own not for God\u2019s now\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Objections to Evolution<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n
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Through books, movies, magazine articles, television programs, and other media, the public is constantly bombarded with the evolutionary theories concerning the origin of the universe and the life within it.\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Offering the Invitation<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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After his sermon on the day of Pentecost, which concluded with the plan of salvation, Peter used \u201cmany other words\u201d of exhortation, including the persuasive plea, \u201cSave yourselves from this crooked generation.\u201d About three thousand souls responded in obedience (Acts 2:38\u201341)….<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

“Oh for an Honest False Teacher!”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Although many of the wolves were forced to wear sheep\u2019s clothing (the Lord\u2019s figure for hypocrisy and deception [Mat. 7:15\u201316]) for a few decades, their influence has become so pervasive\u2026.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Oh, How He Loved Her!<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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There is a structure and pattern to the work and worship of the church, which causes it to take on a distinct identity in the New Testament. Only when the church behaves as her husband desires is she that glorious and holy bride, having neither spot, wrinkle, nor blemish.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Ominous Forces and Unfair Advantages<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The <\/span><\/em>Fort Worth Star-Telegram<\/span> once reported that WFAA-TV (Channel 8, Dallas) had canceled the James Robison telecast. The reason? Robison preached on homosexuality and pointed out that the Bible calls it a sin.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

On Being Broadminded<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Broadminded connotes an ample tolerance of beliefs and\/or behaviors other than one\u2019s own. Modern philosophers have created a culture that exalts this trait regarding morals and all religions (i.e., apart from those claiming Bible connections!).<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Bidding Godspeed\u2014No. 1<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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John wrote words of stern warning in 2 John 9: \u201cFor he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.\u201d John was warning about our attitude toward those who advocate error. To offer support, in word or deed, to those who have compromised the Truth is to become their \u201cpartner in crime.\u201d…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Bidding Godspeed\u2014No. 2<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The apostle John clearly warned about complicity with false teachers: “For he that biddeth him God speed is apartaker of his evil deeds” (2 John 9). This includes offering support, in word or deed, to men, congregations, orschools that have compromised the Truth.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

On Capital Punishment<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The death penalty has been a topic of much debate in recent years. A few years ago, some pressure groups\u2026were able to carry enough weight to succeed in having most (if not all) state death penalty statutes ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

On Civil Disobedience<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Generally, Inspiration charges us to obey civil authorities: \u201cLet every soul be in subjection to the higher powers,\u201d and resistance amounts to withstanding God\u2019s will (Rom. 13:1\u20132; cf. Tit. 3:1; 1 Pet. 2:13).\u2026 In light of the foregoing, can a Christian, with the Lord\u2019s approval, ever resist the laws of his government?\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Counting Heads and Hearts<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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I would like to see every one of our classrooms full every Sunday morning. I wish we had to put chairs in the aisles of the auditorium every time we meet. I think everyone who is the least bit interested in the Lord’s cause shares in these desires.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Criticism and Critics<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Jesus warned that some would reproach us and say all manner of evil against us (Mat. 5:11\u201312). While this context warns of outright persecution, we all experience criticism of lesser degrees from time to time. How should we respond to criticism?\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

On Developing Like Christ<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Luke tells us more about the first thirty years of Jesus\u2019 earthly life than the other three who wrote about His life. Even with what Luke tells us, we still know very little, however.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Dogs and Cats<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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For several years, we have had dogs and cats as family pets, giving me an opportunity to observe both of these animals quite closely. Moreover, I have been observant of dogs and cats that belong to others and have generally found them to have rather well-defined traits common to their respective species.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

On “Dumbing Down” God<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In recent years, <\/span><\/em>dumbing down<\/span> has entered the vernacular, meaning to diminish the original effect, power, or significance of an entity. Thus, one might say that the institution of marriage has been \u201cdumbed down\u201d….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Elders and Preachers<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

While freely admitting that preachers sometimes cause problems for good elders, it does not change the fact that many good men (and their families), and the Truth they are determined to preach, are made to suffer because of weak and carnal elders.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

On Freckles and Hairs<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Some Christians fill such powerful roles in the church that they may be liked unto an eye or an ear (vv. 16\u201317). Others are like a hand or a foot (vv. 14, 21). However, many others are not so prominent and, and they are not to be despised. It takes all of the various parts to make up the body….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Identifying False Teachers<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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As our Lord drew the Sermon on the Mount to a close, He gave the following warning: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves. By their fruits ye shall know them” (Mat. 7:15\u201316). Do we still need this warning?…<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Ignoring “Issues”<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

There is a rather persistent cry being made by some members of the church that preachers and writers should not bother the brethren with all of the “issues.” I have heard them say, “Why do we have to hear about the problems?…<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

On Penknives and the Bible\u2014No. 1<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The sixth-century BC king of Judah, Jehoiakim, rebelled against the righteousness of his father, Josiah, and consequently against God. Jeremiah prophesied the captivity in Babylon God would soon visit upon His people….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Penknives and the Bible\u2014No. 2<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Jehoiakim, the ungodly sixth-century BC king of Judah, unceremoniously took his penknife to the pages of Holy Writ as they were read to him, casting them into the fire…Some, who would not be so brazen as to replicate Jehoiakim\u2019s blasphemous act literally, nonetheless do so figuratively….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Penknives and the Bible\u2014No. 3<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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After the fashion of Jehoiakim, the ungodly sixth-century BC king of Judah, many today do figuratively the same thing he did literally\u2014take their \u201cpenknives\u201d to portions of the Bible they find objectionable and cast them into the \u201cfire\u201d…<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Penknives and the Bible\u2014No. 4<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Secularists and humanists don\u2019t bother with penknives; they toss the Bible in toto into the fire. They are therefore among the staunchest advocates of and\/or sympathizers with behavior that is an abomination to their Creator….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Penknives and the Bible\u2014No. 5<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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…. In bold arrogance, Jehoiakim casually took his penknife to God\u2019s Word, supposing he could thereby expunge the Divine judgment…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Seeds and Harvests<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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A bountiful, but bitter harvest of dishonor, immorality, profanity, drug and drink addiction, and blatant secularism have become commonplace in our beautiful USA. These behavior patterns extend from the powerless poor to the wealthiest and most powerful figures in government and business.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On the Fear of God<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The 112th Psalm begins as follows: \u201cPraise ye Jehovah. Blessed is the man that feareth Jehovah, that delighteth greatly in his commandments.\u201d This blessing upon the God-fearer is one of dozens of Biblical statements that either commends or enjoins our fear of God….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On the Impartation of Spiritual Gifts<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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In 1 Corinthians 12:8\u201310, Paul listed nine miraculous \u201cmanifestations\u201d of the Spirit. These gifts were scattered among various members, with some apparently receiving no gift at all (vv. 28\u201330). Since possession of these gifts was not universal among the saints, by what means were they imparted?…<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On<\/a><\/span> the Intolerance of<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span> Tolerance<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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Generally, the Bible teaches the virtues of tolerance and forbearance. The Lord warned against harsh, hypocritical, hypercritical, and unmerciful attitudes that use a double standard in our judgment of others. Paul enjoined us to be longsuffering, and Peter set forth God as the ultimate example of same….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On the Loss of Shame<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The populace of our nation have lost their sense of shame over shameful behavior. According to a recent report, even first and second graders are addressing their teachers by such foul names that school principals are taking the matter up with the parents….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

On Wills and Codicils<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Son of God, Jesus Christ, has a will. It is called \u201cThe New <\/b>Testament\u201d to distinguish it from God\u2019s Will as previously expressed in The Old Testament. Jesus\u2019 Will went into effect when He died on the cross….<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

One Book or Many?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Is the Bible only one book, or is it several books? The Answer is “yes”…Perhaps a look at the \u201cstructure\u201d of the Bible might enable us to know better how to read, study, and understand it…..<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

One Thing Christ Hated<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

One cannot love something without hating its opposite. The Scriptures duly honor this axiom..It is not wrong to have strong feelings of hatred, depending on the object of our hate.<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Our Musty Bible<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Must is such a word. Jesus said, \u201cWe must <\/b>work the works of him that sent me\u201d (John 9:4), indicating that which is necessary, obligatory, indispensable, required, all of which are in this small word….<\/span><\/em><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Our Cares and God’s Care<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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A verse that we all should commit to memory and upon which we should ever rely is the following: “casting all your anxiety upon him, because he careth for you” (1 peter 5:7). When we learn to trust this promise, it will bring us great consolation and courage.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Our Cunning Foe<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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While our foe in the great spiritual warfare of life fully utilizes men and women who yield themselves to his service, our real battle is not with them, but with him who dominates their thinking and their behavior.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

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Our Nation’s Greatest Drug Menace?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Much publicity has been given the illicit traffic in drugs that plagues America. LSD, heroin, marijuana, “uppers” and “downers” are now familiar to all where once they were known to only a few.\u2026As grave as these problems are, in our zeal to stamp them out we usually overlook the most sinister of all drugs at the present\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Our “Objective” News Media<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

There is no doubt about it. The news media, for the most part, are biased and prejudiced. Neither is there any doubt about the direction of their bias. Whether it be in sociology, science, economics, morals, theology, politics, or whatever, the bias is predominantly toward liberal dogma.\u2026<\/span><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n

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