Posts
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
New Video Series
Exciting News. As of today we have a new weekly video series, entitled "Faith Afield." In this series I will be discussing Bible topics in a 5-7 minutes video. I've included a link to our YouTube channel below. You can also view them on our Facebook page. Please share these videos with family and friends as they would be great conversation starters, or catalysts to form Bible studies around. These videos should be uploaded each week to our Facebook and YouTube accounts. Hope you enjoy them!
Josh Robinson
Visit Our YouTube Channel
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Take it for granted . . .
by Dan Curry
There are certain things that we really do not think about
very much. When you get up in the
morning you probably are not thinking that you are alive and breathing because
that happens every day. You walk in bathroom and you flip a switch and the
light comes on. You turn the handle on
the faucet and the water comes out. You
probably do not think about those things at all unless they do not work. If for some reason the light does not come on
then you wonder what happened or if the water did not come out like it was
supposed to then you would think about it.
If you did not wake up, well, you would not have to think about that I
suppose.
But
let’s do think about that for a moment.
When you woke up and did all that you normally do each morning; did you pause
and thank God for the day? One of my
favorite verses in the book of Psalms is found in the 118th chapter
and verse 24: This is the day which the
LORD has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it.
The true living God
of heaven allowed this day to happen and everyone should be giving Him the
praise, glory and thanksgiving for it.
Instead we seemingly rush around and take it for granted. Maybe even saying that we will do some things
tomorrow or even next week or next month and not realizing that those may not
come for us. One day this life will end
and we should treat each day as a gift.
It has been said that it why it is called the “present”.
This is not something
new or ground breaking but something that I do think about from time to
time. It should be on our minds
constantly. Remember the words of Jesus
in Luke 12:16-21
And He told
them a parable, saying, "The land of a rich man
was very productive. "And he began
reasoning to himself, saying, 'What shall I do, since I have no place to store
my crops?' "Then he said, 'This is
what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I
will store all my grain and my goods.
'And I will say to my soul, "Soul, you have many goods laid up for
many years to come; take your
ease, eat, drink and be
merry."' "But God said to
him, 'You fool! This very night
your soul is required of you; and now
who will own what you have prepared?'
"So is the man who stores up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward
God."
And in Matthew 6:33-34
"But
seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be
added to you. "So do not worry
about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble
of its own.
When we
do take things for granted then we become complacent and when things go wrong
we are upset. Have a thankful attitude
at all times giving the glory to God in Christ every day.
Philippians 4:4-7
Rejoice in
the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!
Let your gentle spirit
be known to all men. The Lord is near.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication
with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all
comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Getting Away
by Dan Curry
There is a good chance this summer that many of us will take
some time away from our normal routine.
This is necessary sometimes to help us relax and unwind. However, this should not include a break from
worshipping God.
Some people will take a vacation and not plan on where to
worship on Sunday or Wednesday evening.
One minister that I know told me that he went to Orlando, FL one year on
vacation. On Sunday morning he went to
services at a local congregation. He met
some of the local Christians while there and the place was quite full of
visitors. That evening he returned for
worship and one of the locals recognized and greeted him saying, “You must be a
preacher or elder” The preacher asked, “Why do you say that?” “They are the only ones who come for the
evening service” was the reply.
How sad that Christians justify not attending worship just
because they are not near their hometown congregation. Attending worship for faithful Christians
should be something that is the highlight of each and every week. Not only when at home but also when
away. The opportunity to worship God
should be sought after and cherished. We
only have so many Sundays in our lifetime; please do not waste them by not
attending and praising the God of heaven.
Our heavenly Father loves us and desires for us to reciprocate that love
in complete obedience to His will. Not
attending worship when you are able is willfully disobeying the Creator, the
one who sent His Son to die for us in order that we might have the hope of
Heaven.
Getting away from our normal routine is good to do, saying
that worship is included in that is not.
Plan accordingly no matter where your destination happens to be. Perhaps, you will make a friendship with a
fellow Christian that will surprise you.
Obeying Christ shows that you are His friend. There is no greater friend than Jesus
Christ.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Sitting by Sea Shore
This week as I've been sitting by the sea shore, behold God's glorious creation I've been reminded of Psalm 104
24 O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. 25 So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts. 26 There go the ships: there is that leviathan, whom thou hast made to play therein.
The ocean truly is great and wide, and many thing have the use of it. In fact the ocean (and that lies therein) is one of God's greatest works. After reflecting upon the sea, notice the psalmists words,
33 I will sing unto the LORD as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. 34 My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD.
As I sit upon the glorious coast that God created I will remember that , "This is the day that the Lords has made, and I will rejoice and be glad in it!"
24 O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. 25 So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts. 26 There go the ships: there is that leviathan, whom thou hast made to play therein.
The ocean truly is great and wide, and many thing have the use of it. In fact the ocean (and that lies therein) is one of God's greatest works. After reflecting upon the sea, notice the psalmists words,
33 I will sing unto the LORD as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. 34 My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD.
As I sit upon the glorious coast that God created I will remember that , "This is the day that the Lords has made, and I will rejoice and be glad in it!"
Friday, June 1, 2012
The End
The title may seem a little odd and it is. The idea for any article is to inform or to make one think a little. Hopefully, this one will do both.
When the end of something comes then it is understood that it is completed. Time, then, to move on to something different or a new challenge. Perhaps it will be something complementing the former challenge or a brand new one that pushes oneself to be even better than before.
Consider the following passage:
Romans 10:4
For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.
Christ is the “end” of the law. This is an interesting choice of words here by the inspired Apostle Paul. When we think of Jesus, the word “end” may not be the first word that would be used to describe Him. Yet, in this context, it is exactly the precise word that was chosen and used to perfection. (For all of God’s word is perfect) Let us back up and read the previous verses with this one.
Romans 10:1-4
Brethren, my heart's desire and my prayer to God for them is for their salvation. For I testify about them that they have a zeal for God, but not in accordance with knowledge. For not knowing about God's righteousness and seeking to establish their own, they did not subject themselves to the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.
Paul was pleading with his Jewish brothers to accept the righteousness based on faith and not on the keeping of the Mosaical Law. He wanted them to believe in the Christ who put an end to that law. The word “end” can be used as a termination point or the idea of reaching a specified destination. These two thoughts are complementary to one another. Jesus said He came not to abolish but to fulfill the law. (Matthew 5:17) And the fulfillment meant that it was replaced by a new and better covenant. (Hebrews 9:15; 12:24)
Therefore, Jesus is the “end of the law” and all should come to believe that He is the living Son of God. Not seeking righteousness by any other means but only through Him. Jesus has promised to prepare a place for those who are faithful and return to reward those who obey the gospel and to punish those who do not. (John 14:1-3; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10) Are you prepared for that? Have you ended your life of sin wanting to only live for God in Christ? The time to end old ways is ever decreasing. Please put on Christ in baptism and end a life of living for self and begin a life in the Lord Jesus Christ serving others. Do so before your life’s end.
--Dan Curry
When the end of something comes then it is understood that it is completed. Time, then, to move on to something different or a new challenge. Perhaps it will be something complementing the former challenge or a brand new one that pushes oneself to be even better than before.
Consider the following passage:
Romans 10:4
For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.
Christ is the “end” of the law. This is an interesting choice of words here by the inspired Apostle Paul. When we think of Jesus, the word “end” may not be the first word that would be used to describe Him. Yet, in this context, it is exactly the precise word that was chosen and used to perfection. (For all of God’s word is perfect) Let us back up and read the previous verses with this one.
Romans 10:1-4
Brethren, my heart's desire and my prayer to God for them is for their salvation. For I testify about them that they have a zeal for God, but not in accordance with knowledge. For not knowing about God's righteousness and seeking to establish their own, they did not subject themselves to the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.
Paul was pleading with his Jewish brothers to accept the righteousness based on faith and not on the keeping of the Mosaical Law. He wanted them to believe in the Christ who put an end to that law. The word “end” can be used as a termination point or the idea of reaching a specified destination. These two thoughts are complementary to one another. Jesus said He came not to abolish but to fulfill the law. (Matthew 5:17) And the fulfillment meant that it was replaced by a new and better covenant. (Hebrews 9:15; 12:24)
Therefore, Jesus is the “end of the law” and all should come to believe that He is the living Son of God. Not seeking righteousness by any other means but only through Him. Jesus has promised to prepare a place for those who are faithful and return to reward those who obey the gospel and to punish those who do not. (John 14:1-3; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10) Are you prepared for that? Have you ended your life of sin wanting to only live for God in Christ? The time to end old ways is ever decreasing. Please put on Christ in baptism and end a life of living for self and begin a life in the Lord Jesus Christ serving others. Do so before your life’s end.
--Dan Curry
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Campaigning is Strafford, MO
This weekend several members from Arnold have made the trip to Strafford, MO to knock doors and help the congregation evangelize for their Gospel Meeting. We have spent the morning in the streets of the town, inviting folks to services and sharing the Gospel with the lost. We are looking forward to some great opportunities for fellowship this afternoon! If you're in the area please stop in a visit with these great Christians!!!
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
I want to be pleasing to . . .
Dan Curry
How would you complete the title sentence? It would probably depend on when the
statement was being made. For example if
one was at work then it might be that one’s boss’s name would be the
completion, or perhaps a co-worker. If
one was at home then probably the spouse or, if a child was the one stating the
sentence, one’s parents. Many people may
come to mind that would be appropriate to complete the sentence.
However, one could and should be completing and meaning the
sentence by inserting “the Lord”. When
we are pleasing to God and His Son then we will be pleasing to everyone else in
our lives. God has long had the
principle that by living righteously in His sight then all of one’s life would
be complete and have great meaning.
Consider these passages from God’s Word
"Now
this is the commandment, the statutes and the judgments which the LORD your God
has commanded me to teach you,
that you might do them in the
land where you are going over to possess it, so that you and your son and your
grandson might fear the LORD your God, to keep all His statutes and His
commandments which I command you, all
the days of your life, and that your days may be prolonged.
"O Israel, you should listen and be
careful to do it, that it may
be well with you and that you may multiply greatly, just as the LORD, the God
of your fathers, has promised you, in
a land flowing with milk and honey.
"Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the
LORD is one! "You shall love the
LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your
might.
"So
the LORD commanded us to observe all these statutes, to fear the LORD our God
for our good always and for our survival, as it is today. “It will be righteousness for us if we are careful
to observe all this commandment before the LORD our God, just as He commanded
us.
Children,
obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER
(which is the first commandment with a promise), SO THAT IT MAY BE WELL WITH
YOU, AND THAT YOU MAY LIVE LONG ON THE EARTH.
Your
righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, And Your law is truth.
The
end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for
this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment,
with every secret thing, whether good or evil.
"But seek first His kingdom and His
righteousness and all these things will be added to you.
(all emphasis added- dc)
All of these scriptures point to pleasing God and desiring
to live a righteous life in His sight.
When we are living our lives in this way then everyone benefits. Live for God and strive to please Him in all
things.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Planting in the Good Soil
This year the weather has been great for planting. The weather has been warm and the growing season has started. While planting the garden with the kids the other day I began thinking about the words of Christ. But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. Mat13:8.
We have many evangelism opportunities here at Arnold this year. This month we will conduct a campaign to Strafford,MO. Later we will knock doors for our gospel meeting and continue for our Arnold evangelism program. We also have campaigns to Montego Bay, Jamaica; Eaglevile, MO; and Dyersberg, Please pray for these events. That we might reach the lost and plant in the good soil and that the Lord may be glorified by our actions.
We have many evangelism opportunities here at Arnold this year. This month we will conduct a campaign to Strafford,MO. Later we will knock doors for our gospel meeting and continue for our Arnold evangelism program. We also have campaigns to Montego Bay, Jamaica; Eaglevile, MO; and Dyersberg, Please pray for these events. That we might reach the lost and plant in the good soil and that the Lord may be glorified by our actions.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Lads Rundown
Over the weekend we tried to keep all our readers up to date as to the goings on at the Lads Convention. Here is a rundown of numbers and events.
15 Adult participants
16 Student participants
Arnold participated in 10 of the 37 events offered in the Lads to Leaders and Leaderettes program. Arnold had six participate in the Twenty-six non-competitive events and four of the eleven competitive events. While Arnold only participated in six of the non-competitive events; we are utilizing many of the materials used to earn an award (i.e. Headed to the Office, GARD, GIFTS, PERLS). The event participation breaks down as follows; the numbers represent the number of participants from Arnold. Click here to view the rule book in PDF
Non-Competitive Events
Good Samaritan – 4
Centurion of Scripture – 5
Parade of Winners – 3
Year Round Speech –3
Year Round Song -4
Know the Books – 3
Competitive Events
Bible Bowl – 20
Scrapbook – 2
Speech – 13
Song – 13
The Lads and Leaderettes from Arnold did a super job this past year and it showed at the Friday and Saturday night awards. While the Lads program is a yearlong tool used at Arnold; the Annual convention is a nice pat on the back of encouragement for all the hard work done over the past year. Thank you to all the students, parents, elders, deacons and the Christians at the Arnold church of Christ for supporting such an essential tool in the Kingdom.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Lads 2012 Saturday Morning
Just downed a hardy Lads breakfast of Hotel Room Coffee and Chips Ahoy Cookies. Headed off with the rest of the adults to a crack of dawn judges meeting. Let the games begin.
Friday, April 6, 2012
Live From Lads to Leaders Convention 2012 Indianapolis
The first day of Convention is coming to a close. We are sitting in the awards ceremony now and I could not be prouder of the Arnold Lads and Leaderettes. The Friday night awards are for events that primarily take place over the course of the year and are non-competitive. These events focus on honing leadership skills, gaining biblical knowledge and service. Our youth participated in Good Samaritan, Centurion of Scripture, Parade of Winners, Year Round Speech and Song, and Know the Books. Each of the events that Arnold participated in are some of the most challenging and time consuming that the Lads program offers.
Good Samaritan: The participants earns points by doing good works.
Centurion of Scripture: The participant can earn an award by memorizing one hundred scriptures in groups of ten, fifty or all one hundred at a time.
Parade of Winners: Reading through either the New or Old Testament in a year.
Year Round Speech: A minimum of six speeches are to be given no less then two times in a year for a minimum of eighteen times.
Year Round Song: A minimum of six songs lead at least three times for a minimum of eighteen times over a year.
Know the Books: A three level award raining from knowing all the books of the bible to being able to provide the theme of each book.
Much more to come tomorrow. Our kids are participating in Speech, Song Leading, and Bible Bowl.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
What Are You Doing With Your Day?
by: Dan Curry
How many times do you feel like just staying in bed and relaxing or sleeping just a “few more minutes”? If you are honest probably more than you would like to admit to yourself or anyone else. This is a feeling that all of us have at one time or another. It is interesting that usually this is when it is a day when there is something that is a “have to do” thing. You know like work or school or some appointment that must be kept. Now if it is a day off and there is a “fun” thing scheduled there is no problem in jumping out of bed and getting ready and starting the day. Our perspective is completely and totally different. Seemingly mundane things however can also be changed to “fun” things if we have the proper perspective toward them.
Many times when it comes to our Christian responsibilities we develop this same attitude of “Do I have to?” Of course, this certainly should not be the case at all. We need to remember that a willingness to submit to God’s will also means that we must willingly be ready to DO His will. Not just when it fits into our schedule but every day.
Many passages come to mind but let us look at two of them. In the first one Jesus is about to heal a blind man in John chapter 9, notice verse 4:
John 9:4
"We must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can work.
Some translations put it as “I must work” but the original language indicates “We” as more accurate. This denotes that not only was Jesus indicating that He needed to be doing the will of the Father as an opportunity arose but that His disciples must be doing the same thing. Neglecting that opportunity was not an option in His mind and neither should it be in the mind and hearts of His followers.
Does this mean that we cannot work or attend school? Certainly not, but what it does mean is found in Colossians 3:23-24
Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.
Also we must remember the words found in James 4:17
Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.
Neglecting one’s duty as a Christian is sin. Every Christian is to be an example to others around them. So whatever you are doing, whether at work, school or even during leisure time, a Christ-like attitude should be demonstrated. This is a process and although one should never expect perfection one should be striving for growth and improvement constantly. When you are “seeking first the kingdom” then it will be easier for you to shine your Christian light.
Make a commitment to yourself to not be neglectful. Do not avoid or put off studying God’s word. Surrounding yourself with fellow Christians as much as possible, both in attending worship as well as other functions and in your leisure time will only help. The more you have and develop close relationships with like minded people the easier it will be to have the right mindset.
Finally do not be neglectful in sharing your faith. Be ready to “make a defense” as Peter tells us in 1 Peter 3:15. God loves you and wants you to spend eternity with Him in heaven. Do not be guilty of procrastination in assuring your place in the Lamb’s book of life.
Jesus said that “We must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day. So what are you doing with your Day?
Monday, February 27, 2012
Shame: Suppress or Address
by: Dan Curry
When you were young and you did things that you knew would get you into trouble with your parents, what did you do? Try to hide it? Come right out and admit it? Most children hide it and hope they do not get caught. Or they think Mom and Dad will not find out. Maybe you even think that you got away with some things. You know, that one or two things they never found out about. But you know you did it and some part of you still feels the shame of going against their rules. At least to some degree, we felt bad that we had disobeyed them. Perhaps the fear of the punishment that would be had caused us to repress the feeling of shame, but it is there anyway.
Sin causes us to feel that same pang of guilt and shame, knowing that we have sinned against the loving all powerful all knowing God. This feeling should lead us to seek the forgiveness that He is able to give. Yet many times that feeling is suppressed. There is that feeling of “I can do what I want”. The allurement of the sin is greater than the desire to please God. James describes it like this in chapter one and verses 14 and 15:
But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.
But as Paul stated in verses 24 and 25, we can thank God that we can have forgiveness through Jesus Christ. When we address the issue of sin, then we can have forgiveness. God allows this wonderful blessing as Christians. After being baptized one has an avenue of pardon through recognizing the shame of sin and instead of suppressing the feeling, He gives us the ability to address it. Look again in 1 John 1:6-7
If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Memorial Day
by: Josh Robinson
On the last Monday in May, this nation celebrates Memorial Day. It is a national holiday that is dedicated to the fallen soldiers who have gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country, so that we might live in freedom. From the limited amount of research that I have been able to do, over 1.5 million Americans have died in service to their country. I would like to express my gratitude and respect to all those who gave their lives, have served, or are serving in the Armed Forces. THANK YOU! On this Memorial Day, as we stop to pay our respects to those who have given their lives for our freedoms, let us remember other who have died for a the greatest cause of all.
During this national holiday, let us take a moment to observe a SPIRITUAL MEMORIAL DAY. As noted above, there have been over 1.5 million Americans who have died for their country. In contrast, there have been over 70 million “CHRISTIANS” who have died for their beliefs. (World Christian Encyclopedia (2001) According to the source mentioned, this number includes anyone who died prematurely, by human aggression for expressing their beliefs. These individuals (for the most part) died so that we can continue to worship God in Spirit and in truth (John 4:24) These martyrs began in the first century and continue to this day. Many sources are available for further study in this area, one of the best being, Fox’s Book of Martyrs. It is accepted that all of the apostles, save John, were put to death for their beliefs, and untold Christians were murdered and exterminated during the persecutions of the 1st century. I would, however, like to look to the New Testament for examples of those who gave their life for the faith we now possess.
Jesus Christ died for our faith (to establish our faith!)
But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Rom 5:8) For further study please read the following chapters: Matthew 26-28, Mark 14-16, Luke 22-24, and John 18-20.
Stephen died for his faith in the Lord,
Now when they heard these things they were enraged, and they ground their teeth at him.…But they cried out with a loud voice and stopped their ears and rushed together at him. Then they cast him out of the city and stoned him…. he called out, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." And when he had said this, he fell asleep. (Acts 7:54-60)
Anitpas died for his faith in Christ.
And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: 'The words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword. "'I know where you dwell, where Satan's throne is. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith even in the days of Antipas my faithful witness, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. (Rev 2:12-13)
As we remember the fallen heroes of this nation during Memorial Day, let us also remember the fallen heroes of our faith. Because of the unwavering faith that these martyrs demonstrated, and of God’s unfathomable grace, mercy, longsuffering, and providence, we can worship proudly.
On the last Monday in May, this nation celebrates Memorial Day. It is a national holiday that is dedicated to the fallen soldiers who have gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country, so that we might live in freedom. From the limited amount of research that I have been able to do, over 1.5 million Americans have died in service to their country. I would like to express my gratitude and respect to all those who gave their lives, have served, or are serving in the Armed Forces. THANK YOU! On this Memorial Day, as we stop to pay our respects to those who have given their lives for our freedoms, let us remember other who have died for a the greatest cause of all.
During this national holiday, let us take a moment to observe a SPIRITUAL MEMORIAL DAY. As noted above, there have been over 1.5 million Americans who have died for their country. In contrast, there have been over 70 million “CHRISTIANS” who have died for their beliefs. (World Christian Encyclopedia (2001) According to the source mentioned, this number includes anyone who died prematurely, by human aggression for expressing their beliefs. These individuals (for the most part) died so that we can continue to worship God in Spirit and in truth (John 4:24) These martyrs began in the first century and continue to this day. Many sources are available for further study in this area, one of the best being, Fox’s Book of Martyrs. It is accepted that all of the apostles, save John, were put to death for their beliefs, and untold Christians were murdered and exterminated during the persecutions of the 1st century. I would, however, like to look to the New Testament for examples of those who gave their life for the faith we now possess.
Jesus Christ died for our faith (to establish our faith!)
But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Rom 5:8) For further study please read the following chapters: Matthew 26-28, Mark 14-16, Luke 22-24, and John 18-20.
Stephen died for his faith in the Lord,
Now when they heard these things they were enraged, and they ground their teeth at him.…But they cried out with a loud voice and stopped their ears and rushed together at him. Then they cast him out of the city and stoned him…. he called out, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." And when he had said this, he fell asleep. (Acts 7:54-60)
Anitpas died for his faith in Christ.
And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: 'The words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword. "'I know where you dwell, where Satan's throne is. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith even in the days of Antipas my faithful witness, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. (Rev 2:12-13)
As we remember the fallen heroes of this nation during Memorial Day, let us also remember the fallen heroes of our faith. Because of the unwavering faith that these martyrs demonstrated, and of God’s unfathomable grace, mercy, longsuffering, and providence, we can worship proudly.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Let's Take Our Boots Off!
A while back, we hosted the monthly preacher’s meeting here at Arnold. I was pleased to see so many of the area preachers gather together to teach, learn, and have fellowship together. The topics that were selected were very timely and included “Encouraging the Brethren”, “Encouraging the Preacher”, and “Evangelism.” During the course of these lessons, two main points came out. That we have to always preach the whole council of God, and preach that truth in love! On particular passage come to mind in reference to these ideas, Paul states in II Tim 4:2-5
Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
Paul is encouraging Timothy to preach the whole council of God, in love, when people want to hear, and also when they don’t. Because the time will come, when people won’t want to hear the truth, but will need it even more. Paul is encouraging Timothy to endure afflictions, because as a preacher he was going to have to step on toes. That comes with the territory of “reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. And the time comes when we all need to have our toes stepped on a little bit. In regards to this, someone pointed out that too many people go into services with Steel Toe Boots on. I would say to everyone with this mindset, LET’S TAKE OUR BOOTS OFF!!!
To grow and mature as Christians, we sometimes have to allow ourselves to be reproved and rebuked. We can’t develop a hardened heart, from leaving our boots on, sometimes we have to be willing to take them off and be reminded that we still have room to grow as Christians. This is the way the Lord intended. Notice Acts 2:37, “Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?” These people were “pricked in their heart.” It is hard to, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another… (Col 3:16) without first taking off your boots. If we allow ourselves to be humbled, as the master was humbled then we may grow in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, as all good children should.
When we go into church, ready to defend our lifestyles and choices from whatever is taught in class, and delivered from the pulpit, we not only have on steel toe boots, but also a hardened heart. Brethren, let us take off our boots, so that the Word of God may prick our hearts, and we may grow thereby.
--Josh Robinson
Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
Paul is encouraging Timothy to preach the whole council of God, in love, when people want to hear, and also when they don’t. Because the time will come, when people won’t want to hear the truth, but will need it even more. Paul is encouraging Timothy to endure afflictions, because as a preacher he was going to have to step on toes. That comes with the territory of “reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. And the time comes when we all need to have our toes stepped on a little bit. In regards to this, someone pointed out that too many people go into services with Steel Toe Boots on. I would say to everyone with this mindset, LET’S TAKE OUR BOOTS OFF!!!
To grow and mature as Christians, we sometimes have to allow ourselves to be reproved and rebuked. We can’t develop a hardened heart, from leaving our boots on, sometimes we have to be willing to take them off and be reminded that we still have room to grow as Christians. This is the way the Lord intended. Notice Acts 2:37, “Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?” These people were “pricked in their heart.” It is hard to, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another… (Col 3:16) without first taking off your boots. If we allow ourselves to be humbled, as the master was humbled then we may grow in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, as all good children should.
When we go into church, ready to defend our lifestyles and choices from whatever is taught in class, and delivered from the pulpit, we not only have on steel toe boots, but also a hardened heart. Brethren, let us take off our boots, so that the Word of God may prick our hearts, and we may grow thereby.
--Josh Robinson
Saturday, January 30, 2010
The Parable of the Hidden Treasure
It has been often said that a parable is an earthly story, with a heavenly meaning. This is a true statement. The Lord used common every day occurrences to teach people about the kingdom, prayer, stewardship, and many other things. As we study the parables keep in mind, that there is a central theme to each one. With these things in mind, let us examine the parable of the Hidden Treasure.
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. (Matthew 13:44)
This would have been a understandable, if not common event in the first century. People of this time did not have banks or vaults to keep their money, but like squirells would create a cashe of their wealth. The man in the account finds one such “treasure” and sells all to buy the field. In this region possession was 9/10 of the law. Owning the field would make this treasure his. So it is with joy that he sacrifices to gain his property and the riches that went with it.
In this parable of the Kingdom, the treasure is the kingdom, and the man is a lost soul. The man finds the treasure quite by accident, when he wasn’t looking for it. The New Testament is filled with examples of those who found the kingdom without seeking it. Take Saul of Tarsus for one such example. On the road to Damascus, with papers in hand authorizing the persecution of Christians, the Lord appears to him. Three days later he is baptized into Christ and began to preach the Gospel, a task he would sacrifice power, prestige and ultimately life for. (Acts 9-26) Yet he counted it joy to suffer for Christ sake. (Phil 1:20-21) Not what Saul thought would happen when he left Jerusalem! Notice the Philippian jailer in Acts 16.:23-34. This Gentile was asleep in the prison, when an earthquake struck opening all of the cell doors. He was about to commit suicide (in place of facing the harsh discipline of his masters), until Paul stopped him. The jailor then asked what he needed to do to be saved. What a great question! Paul preached to him and all his house, and that same hour they were baptized into Christ. That afternoon when Paul and Silas were cast into his prison for being Christians and teaching Christ; I would wager that becoming a Christian was the last thing on his mind. However that night he stumbled upon the Kingdom, and with joy sacrificed to receive it. (It was a sacrifice in the first century for a Gentile to convert).
Both of these men were like the man in the parable. They blindly stumbled into a great treasure, and gladly sacrificed to obtain it. We all need to be like these men, when we find the truth of the Kingdom; it is worth whatever the cost to obtain that eternal home in heaven that is the reward of all those faithful servants of the Kingdom!!!
-- Josh Robinson
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. (Matthew 13:44)
This would have been a understandable, if not common event in the first century. People of this time did not have banks or vaults to keep their money, but like squirells would create a cashe of their wealth. The man in the account finds one such “treasure” and sells all to buy the field. In this region possession was 9/10 of the law. Owning the field would make this treasure his. So it is with joy that he sacrifices to gain his property and the riches that went with it.
In this parable of the Kingdom, the treasure is the kingdom, and the man is a lost soul. The man finds the treasure quite by accident, when he wasn’t looking for it. The New Testament is filled with examples of those who found the kingdom without seeking it. Take Saul of Tarsus for one such example. On the road to Damascus, with papers in hand authorizing the persecution of Christians, the Lord appears to him. Three days later he is baptized into Christ and began to preach the Gospel, a task he would sacrifice power, prestige and ultimately life for. (Acts 9-26) Yet he counted it joy to suffer for Christ sake. (Phil 1:20-21) Not what Saul thought would happen when he left Jerusalem! Notice the Philippian jailer in Acts 16.:23-34. This Gentile was asleep in the prison, when an earthquake struck opening all of the cell doors. He was about to commit suicide (in place of facing the harsh discipline of his masters), until Paul stopped him. The jailor then asked what he needed to do to be saved. What a great question! Paul preached to him and all his house, and that same hour they were baptized into Christ. That afternoon when Paul and Silas were cast into his prison for being Christians and teaching Christ; I would wager that becoming a Christian was the last thing on his mind. However that night he stumbled upon the Kingdom, and with joy sacrificed to receive it. (It was a sacrifice in the first century for a Gentile to convert).
Both of these men were like the man in the parable. They blindly stumbled into a great treasure, and gladly sacrificed to obtain it. We all need to be like these men, when we find the truth of the Kingdom; it is worth whatever the cost to obtain that eternal home in heaven that is the reward of all those faithful servants of the Kingdom!!!
-- Josh Robinson
Friday, January 29, 2010
The Gospel Plan of Salvation
by: Eric Scher
When one creates something one would have a desire for how
that something will function. For example we would not want
a boat to fly up in the air when the function of it is supposed to
be for travelling on water. Likewise God has created us to be His servants
while we live here and ultimately in the life to come. The bible teaches us
that we were put here on this planet to glorify God according to Isaiah
chapter 43 verse 7. Well how do we glorify Him but by keeping His commandments
which is man's biggest responsibility as shown in Ecclesiastes chapter 12
verse 13. Well the big question is where do we go to find out what God's
commandments are then what are those commandments? We can find out by looking
at what the bible says regarding this. First we have to understand that the
bible is indeed God's Word and the blueprint for our lives. II Timothy
chapter 3 verses 16-17 shows us that all scripture is inspired by God and gives
us the information we need. We have no need of anything else to tell us. Well
since God's Word is inspired and is all we need we can turn to God's Word, the bible
to get our information. We can turn to I John chapter 5 verses 6-13. We see here
that God the Father, Son and Holy Ghost all bear witness in heaven and on earth
and we find out about Jesus being the Christ and the verses mention that we can
indeed know that we do have eternal life because of what is written. Now the
question is just exactly what is written for us to know this? Let's look at
John chapter 3 verses 16-21. We see that God gave His only begotten Son and it
mentions that whoever believes in Him or on Him shall have eternal life. But
believing on Him goes much further than just believing that Christ existed
or was the Son of God but believing on Him requires believing and doing what He
stands for. Verse 21 mentions that he who does the truth comes to the light.
Believing on the Son of God requires us to do the truth. How can we know that it
isn't simply just believing? The bible mentions in James chapter 2 verses 14-26
that faith without works is dead, furthermore it states that even the demons
believe and tremble. Safe to say that all of us would want to be much better than
demons. Let's also notice Matthew chapter 7 verses 21-23 that not everyone who says
"Lord Lord" would enter the kingdom of heaven but only those who do God's will which
indicates that obedience is very important. We must be willing to do exactly what
God wants us to do and not just do what feels good to us or what we want. The bible
warns us that most will not enter the kingdom of heaven because the other way is easier.God's way is more difficult. Consider Matthew chapter 7 verses 13-14. I would not want to be told by Jesus Christ "depart from Me I never knew you"
So since we must do the truth, we have to find out what that truth is and what
it consists of. On believing that Jesus Christ is the Son of God we need to be willing to confess Him before mankind, in other words speaking the simple truth about Him to others that He is the Son of God and that we believe that. In Romans chapter 10 verses 8-10 it states that the word is in us and in our mouths and hearts and if we confess Him we would be saved. The heart allows us to believe and the mouth allows us to confess that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. We are also told that this is for everyone in the world not just choice people. The bible uses the term "calls on" meaning to "believe on" in verse 13. Note that the bible is full of life and death statements spiritually. We are told so far that if we believe on Him we will be saved or have eternal life. If we confess Him or call on Him we will be saved. What about if we do just the opposite? Obviously then the result will also be the opposite of being saved as well. Please notice Matthew chapter 10 verses 32-33. You'll notice that the same language is used here in verse 33 as was used in Matthew 7: 23 "Deny you before my Father" " I never knew you" Next we are also told that we must be willing to repent of our sins. But first before we can do this we have to understand what sin is. We are given a very formal definition of sin in James chapter 1 verses 12-15. We cause our own sins. No one makes us do them, not even Satan himself. You might remember Flip Wilson playing a preacher saying "THE DEVIL MADE ME DO IT!" But the truth is the devil doesn't make us do anything, but he does put temptation before us as he did with Jesus Christ in Matthew chapter 4 verses 1-11 but Christ overcame that by using God's Word and telling Satan "It is written"
We can do the same as well by dwelling into God's Word. We cannot blame others either. We will be held accountable for our own sins. This is mentioned in Romans Chapter 14 verse 12. Also notice Ezekiel chapter 18 verses 18-20.
We find in Isaiah chapter 59 verses 1-2 that God cannot look at sin and separates us
from Him. To God our sins are repulsive so much more than the worst things that are
gross to us. Because of that separation we needed a mediator who was Jesus Christ.
See Galatians chapter 3 verses 19-22
Also a child not of accountability is not able to sin nor is he or she born in sin either. Notice what Jesus Christ himself says to His disciples in Matthew chapter 18 verses 1-3 and also Matthew chapter 19 verses 13-14 showing the innocence of small children and infants. Sin comes in two forms. Sin of omission , doing what we should not be doing and sin of omission meaning not doing what we should be doing. The following verses are verses showing the sins of omission.
I Corinthians chapter 6 verses 9-10. You will notice too in verse 11 that the brethren fell into these sins at one point in the first century, however, it is mentioned that they were washed and sanctified which I'll get into later. The other verses that show sins of commission are found in Galatians chapter 5 verses 19-21. I bring to your attention that sins of commission are more than actually doing the actions but even thinking about and dwelling on it as a desire to do it. Notice in verse 21 "and the like". This wording refers to not only the action but flirting with this in mind , heart or thought or even doing something relating to those actions. What we do or say or think is equally important. A sin of omission is found in James chapter 1 verses 23-24 and verse 26, also James chapter 2 verse 17 knowing to do good and not do it. We've already discussed the sin of not being obedient to God's Word in Matthew 7:21-23. This too would definitely be a sin of omission.
Within that we can also turn to II Thessalonians chapter 1 verses 7-9. In this case here it is mentioned how God will punish those who do not know God and those who do not obey the Gospel which we'll get into further in this study. There are life and death statements mentioned regarding repentance in Luke chapter 13 verses 3 and 5 which are identical. Christ was showing and stressing the importance of repentance and the consequences for not doing it. Repentance means a turning away from doing wrong to doing what is right and then continuing in that direction of doing right. It isn't enough to just be sorry but there must be a change in our lifestyles.
Earlier I just mentioned that II Thessalonians 1:7-9 talks about the consequence of not obeying the Gospel. We are told in Romans chapter 1 verse 16 that the Gospel is the power onto salvation. We have to first understand what the Gospel is. We can't obey something if we don't know what it is. First we need to look at I Corinthians chapter 15 verses 1-4 and it gives us a formal definition of what "Gospel" means being the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This clearly tells us what Jesus Christ did for us. I might add as well that we were not deserving of this but it was done in love. Notice Romans chapter 5 verses 6-11. So now we know what the Gospel is but we still haven't talked about how we obey the Gospel. We can turn to Romans chapter 6 verses 3-6 to find out how this is done. We see that baptism is the way to obey the Gospel. As we are baptized we commemorate Christ's death, burial and resurrection. The original Greek word for baptism is "Baptizo" and means an immersion. So baptism is an immersion in water. It is definitely not sprinkling or pouring. One would never think to pour or sprinkle dirt at a funeral. The person is fully buried so likewise since we commemorate Christ's death, burial and resurrection it would stand to reason that baptism would be a burial in water. Baptism also allows us to put on Christ as mentioned in Galatians chapter 3 verse 27. This means that as we repent of our sins and we are baptized into Christ we wash away our sins and die to ourselves by becoming like Christ, living as He did and standing up for what He stood for. Paul mentions for to imitate him as he imitated Christ in I Corinthians chapter 11 verse 1.
Baptism does save us through our obedience. Notice I Peter chapter 3 verses 21-22.
The answer of a good conscience toward God is our obedience to God in this case through baptism. There is also an urgency in baptism as Paul showed in Acts chapter 22 verse 16 urging people not to wait. Baptism also allows us to enter into the kingdom of God. Notice John chapter 3 verse 5 We see in Acts chapter 8 verses 26-39 that Philip studied with the Ethiopian Eunuch about Jesus Christ. It was after the Ethiopian Eunuch was baptized in water that he rejoiced, not before. When we are baptized we come in contact with Christ's blood.
Jesus mentions a life and death statement again in the Bible regarding belief and baptism in Mark chapter 16 verses 15-16. When one is in Christ he or she becomes a new creature or creation as mentioned in II Corinthians chapter 5 verse 17.
Once we are baptized the bible tells us that we must live a faithful, self sacrificing lifestyle even if it means dying for our faith. We are to present our bodies a living sacrifice. Romans chapter 12 verses 1-2 and be faithful unto death Revelation chapter 2 verse 10.
When one creates something one would have a desire for how
that something will function. For example we would not want
a boat to fly up in the air when the function of it is supposed to
be for travelling on water. Likewise God has created us to be His servants
while we live here and ultimately in the life to come. The bible teaches us
that we were put here on this planet to glorify God according to Isaiah
chapter 43 verse 7. Well how do we glorify Him but by keeping His commandments
which is man's biggest responsibility as shown in Ecclesiastes chapter 12
verse 13. Well the big question is where do we go to find out what God's
commandments are then what are those commandments? We can find out by looking
at what the bible says regarding this. First we have to understand that the
bible is indeed God's Word and the blueprint for our lives. II Timothy
chapter 3 verses 16-17 shows us that all scripture is inspired by God and gives
us the information we need. We have no need of anything else to tell us. Well
since God's Word is inspired and is all we need we can turn to God's Word, the bible
to get our information. We can turn to I John chapter 5 verses 6-13. We see here
that God the Father, Son and Holy Ghost all bear witness in heaven and on earth
and we find out about Jesus being the Christ and the verses mention that we can
indeed know that we do have eternal life because of what is written. Now the
question is just exactly what is written for us to know this? Let's look at
John chapter 3 verses 16-21. We see that God gave His only begotten Son and it
mentions that whoever believes in Him or on Him shall have eternal life. But
believing on Him goes much further than just believing that Christ existed
or was the Son of God but believing on Him requires believing and doing what He
stands for. Verse 21 mentions that he who does the truth comes to the light.
Believing on the Son of God requires us to do the truth. How can we know that it
isn't simply just believing? The bible mentions in James chapter 2 verses 14-26
that faith without works is dead, furthermore it states that even the demons
believe and tremble. Safe to say that all of us would want to be much better than
demons. Let's also notice Matthew chapter 7 verses 21-23 that not everyone who says
"Lord Lord" would enter the kingdom of heaven but only those who do God's will which
indicates that obedience is very important. We must be willing to do exactly what
God wants us to do and not just do what feels good to us or what we want. The bible
warns us that most will not enter the kingdom of heaven because the other way is easier.God's way is more difficult. Consider Matthew chapter 7 verses 13-14. I would not want to be told by Jesus Christ "depart from Me I never knew you"
So since we must do the truth, we have to find out what that truth is and what
it consists of. On believing that Jesus Christ is the Son of God we need to be willing to confess Him before mankind, in other words speaking the simple truth about Him to others that He is the Son of God and that we believe that. In Romans chapter 10 verses 8-10 it states that the word is in us and in our mouths and hearts and if we confess Him we would be saved. The heart allows us to believe and the mouth allows us to confess that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. We are also told that this is for everyone in the world not just choice people. The bible uses the term "calls on" meaning to "believe on" in verse 13. Note that the bible is full of life and death statements spiritually. We are told so far that if we believe on Him we will be saved or have eternal life. If we confess Him or call on Him we will be saved. What about if we do just the opposite? Obviously then the result will also be the opposite of being saved as well. Please notice Matthew chapter 10 verses 32-33. You'll notice that the same language is used here in verse 33 as was used in Matthew 7: 23 "Deny you before my Father" " I never knew you" Next we are also told that we must be willing to repent of our sins. But first before we can do this we have to understand what sin is. We are given a very formal definition of sin in James chapter 1 verses 12-15. We cause our own sins. No one makes us do them, not even Satan himself. You might remember Flip Wilson playing a preacher saying "THE DEVIL MADE ME DO IT!" But the truth is the devil doesn't make us do anything, but he does put temptation before us as he did with Jesus Christ in Matthew chapter 4 verses 1-11 but Christ overcame that by using God's Word and telling Satan "It is written"
We can do the same as well by dwelling into God's Word. We cannot blame others either. We will be held accountable for our own sins. This is mentioned in Romans Chapter 14 verse 12. Also notice Ezekiel chapter 18 verses 18-20.
We find in Isaiah chapter 59 verses 1-2 that God cannot look at sin and separates us
from Him. To God our sins are repulsive so much more than the worst things that are
gross to us. Because of that separation we needed a mediator who was Jesus Christ.
See Galatians chapter 3 verses 19-22
Also a child not of accountability is not able to sin nor is he or she born in sin either. Notice what Jesus Christ himself says to His disciples in Matthew chapter 18 verses 1-3 and also Matthew chapter 19 verses 13-14 showing the innocence of small children and infants. Sin comes in two forms. Sin of omission , doing what we should not be doing and sin of omission meaning not doing what we should be doing. The following verses are verses showing the sins of omission.
I Corinthians chapter 6 verses 9-10. You will notice too in verse 11 that the brethren fell into these sins at one point in the first century, however, it is mentioned that they were washed and sanctified which I'll get into later. The other verses that show sins of commission are found in Galatians chapter 5 verses 19-21. I bring to your attention that sins of commission are more than actually doing the actions but even thinking about and dwelling on it as a desire to do it. Notice in verse 21 "and the like". This wording refers to not only the action but flirting with this in mind , heart or thought or even doing something relating to those actions. What we do or say or think is equally important. A sin of omission is found in James chapter 1 verses 23-24 and verse 26, also James chapter 2 verse 17 knowing to do good and not do it. We've already discussed the sin of not being obedient to God's Word in Matthew 7:21-23. This too would definitely be a sin of omission.
Within that we can also turn to II Thessalonians chapter 1 verses 7-9. In this case here it is mentioned how God will punish those who do not know God and those who do not obey the Gospel which we'll get into further in this study. There are life and death statements mentioned regarding repentance in Luke chapter 13 verses 3 and 5 which are identical. Christ was showing and stressing the importance of repentance and the consequences for not doing it. Repentance means a turning away from doing wrong to doing what is right and then continuing in that direction of doing right. It isn't enough to just be sorry but there must be a change in our lifestyles.
Earlier I just mentioned that II Thessalonians 1:7-9 talks about the consequence of not obeying the Gospel. We are told in Romans chapter 1 verse 16 that the Gospel is the power onto salvation. We have to first understand what the Gospel is. We can't obey something if we don't know what it is. First we need to look at I Corinthians chapter 15 verses 1-4 and it gives us a formal definition of what "Gospel" means being the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This clearly tells us what Jesus Christ did for us. I might add as well that we were not deserving of this but it was done in love. Notice Romans chapter 5 verses 6-11. So now we know what the Gospel is but we still haven't talked about how we obey the Gospel. We can turn to Romans chapter 6 verses 3-6 to find out how this is done. We see that baptism is the way to obey the Gospel. As we are baptized we commemorate Christ's death, burial and resurrection. The original Greek word for baptism is "Baptizo" and means an immersion. So baptism is an immersion in water. It is definitely not sprinkling or pouring. One would never think to pour or sprinkle dirt at a funeral. The person is fully buried so likewise since we commemorate Christ's death, burial and resurrection it would stand to reason that baptism would be a burial in water. Baptism also allows us to put on Christ as mentioned in Galatians chapter 3 verse 27. This means that as we repent of our sins and we are baptized into Christ we wash away our sins and die to ourselves by becoming like Christ, living as He did and standing up for what He stood for. Paul mentions for to imitate him as he imitated Christ in I Corinthians chapter 11 verse 1.
Baptism does save us through our obedience. Notice I Peter chapter 3 verses 21-22.
The answer of a good conscience toward God is our obedience to God in this case through baptism. There is also an urgency in baptism as Paul showed in Acts chapter 22 verse 16 urging people not to wait. Baptism also allows us to enter into the kingdom of God. Notice John chapter 3 verse 5 We see in Acts chapter 8 verses 26-39 that Philip studied with the Ethiopian Eunuch about Jesus Christ. It was after the Ethiopian Eunuch was baptized in water that he rejoiced, not before. When we are baptized we come in contact with Christ's blood.
Jesus mentions a life and death statement again in the Bible regarding belief and baptism in Mark chapter 16 verses 15-16. When one is in Christ he or she becomes a new creature or creation as mentioned in II Corinthians chapter 5 verse 17.
Once we are baptized the bible tells us that we must live a faithful, self sacrificing lifestyle even if it means dying for our faith. We are to present our bodies a living sacrifice. Romans chapter 12 verses 1-2 and be faithful unto death Revelation chapter 2 verse 10.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Freeing the World of Ignorance
“Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent” (Acts 17:30). The bible is full of hard sayings like these but knowing about them does not make them any easier to accept. Some of the teens on Wednesday night found it particularly difficult to understand how simply because one never hears of the gospel than it disqualifies them from heaven.
The context of the verse we can see starts back in v. 22 as Paul is addressing the men of
Having that said on, can safely apply this verse to those who do not know the one true and living God. For just as the men of
One man that has continued to be an encouragement to me is Walter Young at the Wesconnett
This, however, does not mean all will head our message and warnings. Jesus told the parable of the sower in Mk. 4. This parable explains that not every one will listen or grow in Christ. Even the apostle Paul was rejected. Acts 25:13-26:29 tells of the Gospel message delivered to King Agrippa and ultimately the rejection of eternal life.
Don’t let the fear of being turned down discourage you from teaching the Gospel truth. “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching (emp. ADM 1Tim 4:2)
Friday, November 20, 2009
The Life and Times of Joseph, the Encourager
Many know of this man named Joseph, but know him by another name, Barnabas (Acts 4:36). We read here in Acts that Joseph was called “son of encouragement” by the apostles, which means Barnabas. Immediately, his name speaks volumes of the man’s character because it was not his given name, but a nick name given to him by the apostles of the Lord.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
“Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven”
From time to time I like to stop and take a look at the lyrics from songs that we sing in worship. This week I want to break from that tradition and look at some lyrics to a song we may sing in our cars, homes, or workplace. “Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven” is a song performed by country singer Kenney Chesney, and written by Jim Collins and Marty Dodson. The song lyrics are as follows:
I believe that this song raises some interesting points. In the last chorus of the song, Mr. Chesney adds this line, “I think I speak for the crowd.” The song writers attest that this is the majority opinion, and I believe that they are correct in that! Most people today believe that they are going to Heaven, or some other place of eternal reward. This being said, nobody seems in any hurry to get there. In the space provided I would like to address of few of the points made in this song.
Not Prepared to Go Right Now…
This individual is engaged in sinful activities. The ‘preacher’ tells him to quit: women, drinking, and carrying on all night. The Bible refers to this as: fornication, drunkenness, and revelry. This type of behavior is constantly taught against in the Bible. Paul said to, “Abstain from every appearance of evil.” (I Thes 5:17) These things certainly constitute as evil. In fact in Paul’s lists of works of the flesh and sinful actions, these things always make the list. ( I Cor 6, Gal 5) This man says that he’s, “havin’ fun down here,” and that’s the reason he’s not ready. As Christians we need to “…walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.” (Rom 13:13)
This man is not ready to go “right now.” He says, “There ain’t no hurry…I hope they don’t call today…I wouldn’t mind waiting at least hundred years or so.” He is simply having too much fun to be ready to go to heaven. This man needs to read James 4:14, “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away,” or perhaps II Peter 3:9, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” Maybe he would like to stay around for that event? I think not. As Christians we need to always live our lives in accordance with God’s will and be in a constant state of preparedness. After all we don’t know what tomorrow holds…
Paid for Reserved Seating...
This man claims that he has paid for his sins. This implies to me that he has paid for his admission into heaven, for God to ‘reserve his seat’, because he’s obviously in ho hurry. Notice the second verse.. He has placed $20.00 in the collection plate. One for the sins he committed Saturday night, the other is for the sins he may commit on Sunday. He gives the ‘preacher’ $10.00 as a bribe to God. This attitude is very reminiscent of the selling of indulgences by the Catholic Church many centuries ago. One could purchase salvation, and even remission of sins that had yet to be committed! This mans seems to think that he can purchase his salvation, and even bribe God. The Bible says that, “…God is no respecter of persons:” (Acts 10:34), no matter the money. For an example of this notice the parable of the RICH fool in Luke 12.” But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?” In regards to purchasing salvation, I remember another song that says, “He paid a debt he did not owe, I owed a debt I could not pay…Christ Jesus paid a debt that I could never pay.” Paul in a warning to the elders at Ephesus states that, “the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.” (Acts 20:28) John says that, “…the blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all sin.” (I John 1:7) So then the Bible says, that we can’t purchase our salvation, because Christ has already paid that price for us.
Everybody Wanna go to Heaven, but Nobody Wanna go now…
As Christians, this is not an attitude that we need to have. This may be the way the world views eternity, yet it flies in the face of Biblical teaching. We need have and attitude of expectation and excitement in regards to Heaven. Notice Peter’s words regarding eternity,
Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; (II Pe 3:12-15 )
So what about this song? Should we turn it off when it comes on the radio? So would say yes. I say NO. When you hear this song, turn it up, listen to the lyrics, and remember that this is how the world views your hope of heaven and eternity! This is great reminder of the condition of the world…LOST…and need of salvation. If we don’t take the Gospel to the world, who will?
---Josh Robinson
1ST VERSE
Preacher told me last Sunday mornin`
Son, you better start livin` right
You need to quit the women and
whiskey, And carrying on all night
Don`t you wanna hear him call your name When you`re standin` at the pearly gates I told the preacher, "Yes I do", But I hope they don`t call today
I ain`t ready
CHORUS
Everybody wanna go to heaven
Hallelujah, let me hear you shout
Everybody wanna go to heaven
But nobody wanna go now
2ND VERSE
Said preacher maybe you didn`t see me
Throw an extra twenty in the plate
There`s one for everything I did last night
And one to get me through today
Here`s a ten to help you remember
Next time you got the good Lord`s ear
Say I`m comin` but there ain`t no hurry
I`m havin` fun down here
Don`t you know that
BRIDGE
Someday I want to see those streets of gold
in my halo
But I wouldn`t mind waitin` at least
a hundred years or so
I believe that this song raises some interesting points. In the last chorus of the song, Mr. Chesney adds this line, “I think I speak for the crowd.” The song writers attest that this is the majority opinion, and I believe that they are correct in that! Most people today believe that they are going to Heaven, or some other place of eternal reward. This being said, nobody seems in any hurry to get there. In the space provided I would like to address of few of the points made in this song.
Not Prepared to Go Right Now…
This individual is engaged in sinful activities. The ‘preacher’ tells him to quit: women, drinking, and carrying on all night. The Bible refers to this as: fornication, drunkenness, and revelry. This type of behavior is constantly taught against in the Bible. Paul said to, “Abstain from every appearance of evil.” (I Thes 5:17) These things certainly constitute as evil. In fact in Paul’s lists of works of the flesh and sinful actions, these things always make the list. ( I Cor 6, Gal 5) This man says that he’s, “havin’ fun down here,” and that’s the reason he’s not ready. As Christians we need to “…walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.” (Rom 13:13)
This man is not ready to go “right now.” He says, “There ain’t no hurry…I hope they don’t call today…I wouldn’t mind waiting at least hundred years or so.” He is simply having too much fun to be ready to go to heaven. This man needs to read James 4:14, “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away,” or perhaps II Peter 3:9, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” Maybe he would like to stay around for that event? I think not. As Christians we need to always live our lives in accordance with God’s will and be in a constant state of preparedness. After all we don’t know what tomorrow holds…
Paid for Reserved Seating...
This man claims that he has paid for his sins. This implies to me that he has paid for his admission into heaven, for God to ‘reserve his seat’, because he’s obviously in ho hurry. Notice the second verse.. He has placed $20.00 in the collection plate. One for the sins he committed Saturday night, the other is for the sins he may commit on Sunday. He gives the ‘preacher’ $10.00 as a bribe to God. This attitude is very reminiscent of the selling of indulgences by the Catholic Church many centuries ago. One could purchase salvation, and even remission of sins that had yet to be committed! This mans seems to think that he can purchase his salvation, and even bribe God. The Bible says that, “…God is no respecter of persons:” (Acts 10:34), no matter the money. For an example of this notice the parable of the RICH fool in Luke 12.” But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?” In regards to purchasing salvation, I remember another song that says, “He paid a debt he did not owe, I owed a debt I could not pay…Christ Jesus paid a debt that I could never pay.” Paul in a warning to the elders at Ephesus states that, “the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.” (Acts 20:28) John says that, “…the blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all sin.” (I John 1:7) So then the Bible says, that we can’t purchase our salvation, because Christ has already paid that price for us.
Everybody Wanna go to Heaven, but Nobody Wanna go now…
As Christians, this is not an attitude that we need to have. This may be the way the world views eternity, yet it flies in the face of Biblical teaching. We need have and attitude of expectation and excitement in regards to Heaven. Notice Peter’s words regarding eternity,
Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; (II Pe 3:12-15 )
So what about this song? Should we turn it off when it comes on the radio? So would say yes. I say NO. When you hear this song, turn it up, listen to the lyrics, and remember that this is how the world views your hope of heaven and eternity! This is great reminder of the condition of the world…LOST…and need of salvation. If we don’t take the Gospel to the world, who will?
---Josh Robinson
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