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That "Unchangeable" Gospel

That “Unchangeable” Gospel

      As we have entered a New Year, we all await the ‘changes’ that possibly may confront us as circumstances in our country and the world vary. This is true of jobs, family, and pretty much every aspect of life.  However, not everything is subject to change.   As the time drew near for the pen of inspiration to be laid down when God would cease ‘speaking’ to Israel, for many years, the Spirit had Malachi pen the Words we read in Mal. 3:6For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.   God had made promise to Abraham and that promise was to be fulfilled, even in the face of Israel’s disobedience.    The Promises of God are ‘unchangeable’. 
     Part of the fulfillment of that promise was the sending of His Son to die and purchase the church, wherein all could be saved.  Gal. 3:26-29 shows how this Promise of God is fulfilled.   Verse 29 states:  And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.Because Christ is the “express image” of God (Heb. 1:3), He also does not change.  Heb. 13:8 provides a simple but true declaration. Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.  God does not change.  Christ does not change.  Neither will the plan God ‘purposed’ from the foundation of the world to save souls change.   This plan was first proclaimed in the Garden of Eden and will now be preached until the trumpet sounds.  
     One thing that seems to be the same this year as in the previous one, thus far, is that I lose track of time, fail to prioritize, and find myself behind schedule. Therefore, I searched through some of my wife’s father’s papers and found an article he penned many years ago that fit this week’s sermon idea but has also helped me get the bulletin out on time.   This is one of the numerous ways he has assisted me in service to God.   Perhaps like Abel of old, per Heb. 11:4, “he being dead yet speaketh”. 
       Hopefully, some will read the words of this article and wonder about God’s love for the souls of humanity and desire to know what God has declared in His unchanging gospel. 

That “Unchangeable” Gospel

The greatness in the gospel is in the ONE who gave it,
And is the “good news” that Jesus rose again.
That death has been defeated and this gospel can now save us,
From the death and consequence of sin.
The “power” of God is inherent in the gospel,
As is the “life” that’s hidden inside the “grain”.
Albeit, the gospel is not “personal”, adaptable to others,
For God has ONE plan through which ALL are born again.

This gospel has but one “form”, or “pattern of sound words”,
One “mold”, the “design” re-producing the same.
(As the “master” tape is identical with every one that’s heard),
And ONE blueprint is sufficient, and ONE name.
ONE “parenthood” genders both sisters and brothers,
And a “common” faith proclaims a “common” Lord.
Things equal to the same things are equal to each other,
And “unity” is the result, as we walk in accord.

But, ‘tho we or an angel preach to you another gospel,
Than the one that we previously preached unto you,
The anathema of God shall be “called down” upon him,
Because he “took away from”, or “added unto”.
Our Command from the Lord is to carefully “try” the spirits,
And when we find that they “walk not in the Light”,
The Lord has decreed “Do not bid them godspeed”,
Until they turn from their sins and teach what is right.

So, until the “alien” obeys the gospel from the “heart”,
By being baptized into the “death” of Jesus Christ,
There is no forgiveness of sin, in whole, or in part.
(It was in Christ’s death that He shed His blood).
And, it is “in Christ” that one is a “new creature”, “old things” gone,
(Obeyed that “form of doctrine”, death, burial, and resurrection,
Death is repentance and immersion where Christ is “put on”),
That we’re “washed in His blood” and enjoy the spiritual “connection”.

O. D. Wilson – deceased

     Don’t cling to this changing world, it will be destroyed. Why not embrace the “unchanging” gospel of Christ and live forever?

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

What Are You Looking For In 2024?

What Are You Looking For In 2024?

   I know the title of this article is not grammatically correct, but we all get the point, and besides, it rhymes.  We are on the cusp of a New Year. This is the time of year many make ‘New Years Resolutions’.   It is likely we all desire to improve ourselves in some areas during the coming year. Many of us resolve to exercise more, eat less, or to improve ourselves in some other fashion. Most of us fail to see these through for the whole year.
   Usually, these ‘resolutions’ are made to address some sort of physical need or desire such as losing weight. Most of these are often abandoned as we reach the goal, or when we become bored because it is hard, or the goal has not yet been attained. I personally have discarded several New Years Resolutions for various reasons in the past, but still make one or two annually. This is because I always see a need. What better time to address this than at the beginning of a year?   The key is to maintain the labor or exercise until the goal is attained.
   One question we might ask ourselves as we ponder which ‘resolution’ we are going to make is, “what do I need most?” We all should want to do the things that are conducive to better health. We desire that our bodies operate at maximum efficiency, and are saddened when, due to age, accident, or injury, they do not.   But should we not desire the ‘inner man’ to function at its best so the outer man can be better as well?  
   This should be something for which we all should work in the coming year. Is it not important that both parts of man be properly maintained? Even in the Old Testament, the Spirit had the psalmist declare what God desires for us all. Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.(Psa. 51:6) Is this not something we all should look for in 2024? Per 2Cor. 4:16 our bodies will fail, but our soul needn’t. For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 
     We all should be aware that physical health and well-being is extremely important, “For as the body without the spirit is dead,. . . ”, as Jas. 2:26a informs . But this is not the end of the ‘spirit’ (soul).   In Eccl. 12:7 we are shown that the soul of man continues to exist after the death of the body. Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. But this does not mean that all who die will spend eternity with God as many tend to believe.   When Jesus was on earth and while He spoke to His disciples, in Matt. 10:28, He warned them about fear. He also told them some would spend eternity separated from God. And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. 
     While we focus on what we want to make us better as we move into a New Year, perhaps we should ask what God wants for us. God has promised man a great deal since He created mankind.   2Pet. 3:9 tells us God is not “slack” when it comes to His promises. This verse also tells us what God wants for us. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. It is important that all ‘look for repentance” and become His children per His Holy Word.  
     Now, why should we ‘look for’ this in 2024? The information is provided by the Spirit to Paul to deliver to the brethren in Corinth. All Christians should “look to do well in 2024 and every year, because as 2Cor. 5:10 tells us, For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.  In the meantime, we should seek to ‘do good’ while we live our lives here so we can prepare to ‘appear before God’.   (Eccl 5:18-19)
     So, by what means are we to ‘do good’ as we look for whatever 2024 brings? Eph. 3:16 tells us that the source of our strength is provided by God Himself. He sent the Holy Spirit, Who provided Words of inspiration to Paul to write to these brethren as well as others.   In this place, we see: That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;. This strength is revealed to the ‘inner man’ by revelation of God.   Per 1Cor. 2:10-11, God sent His Spirit to reveal God’s plan so man could know the plan of God for Salvation, and that for which all should be looking in any given year to make him or herself better.  But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 
     As we enter 2024, let us not forget the most important aspect of ourselves as what is our greatest need.   To do this, we need to have the same attitude of the apostle Paul and what the Spirit had him write in Rom. 7:22. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: Should we not be looking for the same thing the Spirit had the psalmist declare in Psa. 119 10-11? He had him pen: With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. 11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. 
     What are we looking for in 2024? Should it not be that which is most pleasing to God?   Think about it.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Gifts From God

Gifts from God

 

     The present time of the year has many folks focused upon gifts. It has become a tradition for many in this country and elsewhere to purchase or make items to give to people during this ‘holiday’ season. There are also quite a few businesses that have capitalized upon this. Some have started companies to participate in and promote the ‘gift giving’ season. Much money is spent on advertising to entice the public to participate, even to the point of going into debt to procure gifts for others. Often the gifts and the giving of them are directed toward people they love. Occasionally, some even give to others out of a sense of obligation.
     It is amazing that so many are ignorant of what God has provided for all of humanity.   The list of ‘gifts’ God has given to man is too numerous to list in an article.   However, some need to be mentioned, so let’s begin at the start.   In Gen. 1:1 we are told of the first gift God gave to man. In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. To some, this may not seem to be much of a gift, but God created earth so man would have a place to live.    
     Years later when man had populated the earth, because the wickedness of man had become so great, God, in Gen. 6:5-7 determined to destroy earth and every living thing. However, because of his fidelity, in vs 8 we see that “Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.” Then we are told God gave man a great gift in 2Pet. 2:5 in that all did not perish. And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly;  Consider the gift of the fact that you and I would not even exist had all humanity been destroyed then.  
     Interestingly, in Gen. 3:15, God had already promised humanity a gift in the Garden following the sin of Adam and Eve. And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.  This is speaking of the death of Christ.
       As Christ was on earth, He taught about some gifts of God. In the Sermon on the Mount in Matt. 5:43-45we read what He taught to His disciples. This portion of the Sermon was about love. God’s love for man has Him giving all humanity gifts daily as part of His general providence for man. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. Everyone benefits from this gift from God.
       Unfortunately, not everyone benefits from every gift of God even though the gift is offered to all. God loves man to the point that He sent the great gift of His Son as John 3:16 points out. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. God provided this gift because He does not desire that any soul should be lost.   We have assurance of this in 2Pet. 3:9. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.  God’s Word has always declared the Christ and what He came to offer mankind.
       However, as John 1:11 shows, some of Christ’s own people (the Jews) rejected Him. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. Those who gladly receive Him according to John 1:12 are indeed given a wonderful gift. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Sadly, too many folks are taught that all one has to do to become a “son of God” is believe. That cannot be true, else the ‘devils’ could become ‘sons of God’. Jas. 2:19 tells us: “the devils also believe, and tremble One thing is certain. The folks who refuse to believe that Christ is the Son of God will die lost.   This is a promise from Christ Himself in John 8:24. I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.
     Many fail to realize that some of the promises of God are conditional. If one refuses to abide by God’s conditions, He will not grant the promise.    Upon the beginning of the New Testament age, the apostles addressed all the Jews that were gathered in Jerusalem for Pentecost. At the conclusion of the sermon, some of the Jews were convinced that they had condoned the killing of the Son of God. In Acts 2:37b they asked: Men and brethren, what shall we do? The Spirit had Peter provide the conditions and the available gift in verse 38. He said: Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.This gift is the ‘promise’ of eternal life. While we live on earth, we only have eternal life in promise.   This is what 1John 2:25 tells us. And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. 
      Rom. 6:23 tells us of God’s great gift to man and how it is procured. But it also shows us the ‘reward’ for iniquity. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Why not obey the gospel according to God’s conditions as laid out in His Word and become a ‘son of God’?   For one to do otherwise is to reject God’s gift and spend eternity in Hell.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

What Would You Give?

What Would You Give?

     Many are focused on the giving and getting of presents and gifts during this holiday season.   During this time of the year, it is also common to hear folks remark on the ‘commercialization’ of the season. Those who make these comments are usually accusing others of “losing the spirit” of the season. Many are rushing here or there, buying this or that, or anxiously awaiting the arrival of that precious ordered item they anticipate will bring someone joy.   Some go to great lengths and put a lot of effort into preparing and presenting foods for gatherings, all designed to make people ‘happy’ as they come together for a short time so they can have ‘joy’ or happiness, that is at best, fleeting.  
     I cannot think of anyone that does not desire happiness. But I can think of a number of folks that are refusing to ‘give up’ things of this life so they can be happy forever. As we seek to provide ‘momentary joy’ for others in providing gifts, we give our time and efforts to purchase or ‘kraft’ things for them. Folks often quote the Lord, and the Words given to the apostle Paul by the Spirit as he likely concluded his last conversation with the Ephesian elders in Acts 20:35.   He said: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.
     How often do we give of ourselves to ensure that others can ‘lay hold’ on that which is not fleeting, but lasts forever?   Also, how often do we put real effort into making sure we ourselves are preparing properly? The Spirit had Paul show how much he cared for the souls of others as He had him write: “I will very gladly spend and be spent for you;” in 2Cor. 12:15. Paul was ready to “give of himself” for the benefit of others.   Paul, and others of the past went to great lengths, gave up much, and suffered much hardship so others could know of the gospel of Christ and be saved.
     The gospel is taught so folks can make an informed choice. We are told the gospel “is the power of God unto salvation” (Rom. 1:16), but the gospel won’t save unless or until it is believed and obeyed. What are we willing to give or ‘give up’ to gain eternal joy?   The things of ‘happiness’ of this life are indeed as fleeting as life itself.   The things of this earth will pass away. But eternal things are forever.   Perhaps this was what was on the mind of my wife’s dad, O. D. Wilson, as he penned the following poem many years ago.   We should all ask ourselves what would we give to have eternal bliss? Each individual is responsible for his or her own soul. God and Christ gave all so you could have the choice. What would you give to have what they offer?

What Would You Give?

What would you give, ever to live
Free from all suff’ring and pain?
Where there’s no heartaches, wrongs to forgive,
No sad partings again.
But while we’re here things we hold dear
All must perish, vanish away.
Jesus has promised He will be near,
Walk with you all of the way.

What would you give to have a true Friend,
When you cross the Jordan so wide?
One on whom you can ever depend,
When you must cross the dark tide.
Jesus is that Friend Who will be true,
Land you safely over the foam.
All that you need He’ll give unto you,
Then you can live in that Home.

If you are lost, think of the cost,
That the Lord paid on that day.
Gave His own life to save us from Hell,
When we like sheep were astray.
Think of such love sent from above,
Now is the time to prepare.
Better obey the gospel today,
So He will welcome you there.

O. D. Wilson – deceased

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

       Unless you’ve lived under a rock, or “off the grid” for the past 50 years, when you see the title of this article, you’ll likely think of the hugely popular soul song by Aretha Franklin, the “Queen of Soul”.   Her version of the song was released in 1967 and became her signature song.  Some may not know, but it was written and originally released by Otis Redding and was a crossover hit for him in 1965.  The original version was a ballad and was rearranged by Aretha as an R & B tune, which also became a feminist anthem of the ‘70’s.   Of course, due to its popularity, the song has been ‘covered’ by many different artists.   
     I won’t provide the entire lyrics here, but a few lines of the chorus as sung by Aretha Franklin should be more than enough to cause one to remember it.  R-E-S-P-E-C-T.  Find out what it means to me.  R-E-S-P-E-C-T.  Take care, TCB.   (This abbreviation means “taking care of business").  This is the aspect of the song I wish to address.   I want to draw attention to the “respect” one is to have for God and His Word as we live our lives on this mundane sphere.   Can we not recognize all God has created and provided and have respect to Him? It is painfully evident that ‘respect for God and His Word’ is sadly absent from the lives of many today. 
     It is amazing what you’ll find about a word, topic or subject when it is looked up online.  One online dictionary gives the following about respect. 1) a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements.  2) giving due regard for the feelings, wishes, rights, or traditions of.  3) agree to recognize and abide by (a legal requirement).  The third definition here applies to the Bible and what God has “COMMANDED” in His Word.  If we have respect for God, we will do what He has commanded.  We will do it out of love and deep adoration for what God has provided to all humanity in the physical, as well as the spiritual realm.   As we live our lives, is it not “taking care of business” to respect God in every facet of life?
      The question becomes: “How do I do this?”.  As was pointed out, one of the definitions of respect is to agree to recognize and abide by (legal requirement). While researching “respect”, I find the ‘core’ of respect is about listening.   We know people feel respected when they’ve been heard and understood.   Is this any different with God?  I don’t think so.   The Spirit had Solomon pen the Words we find in Eccl. 12:13 - Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. This cannot be done unless or until one has respect to God and His Law.  God’s final Law of Salvation has been issued.   It is in the New Testament and is laid out for the benefit of all mankind.   Yet so few truly follow.   In Isa 17:7, speaking of this wonderful time, the Spirit had him prophesy: “At that day shall a man look to his Maker, and his eyes shall have respect to the Holy One of Israel.
       Surely, we now understand why so many do not respect God.  They are not listening to Him.  He ‘speaks’ to us through His Word.  In the past, God spoke by giving His Word to prophets as Heb. 1:1 shows.  God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,. But now, in these “last days”, speaks “by His Son” who has all authority.  We can read this in Heb. 1:2 - Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;. Then we see in Heb. 2:3 that this Word was “confirmed” by those apostles whom the Lord Himself chose.  How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 
      Therefore, refusal to ‘abide by’ what God has ‘spoken’ in His Word and passed down to us through inspiration is to fail to hear, or respect God.  Many would rather listen to and follow man’s “opinion” as to how to serve God.  Those who do so, fail to realize that they are ‘respecting’ man’s wishes and are refusing to show God the respect He deserves. Under both the Old and New Testaments, God, through His Holy Word, has commanded us to follow Him and not man.  In the days of Christ (under the O.T. Law of God), Jesus in Mark 7:7 said: Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.  Were they showing ‘respect’ unto God or Christ in so doing?  I think not!   Is it any different today?   Obviously not.   In fact, the Spirit, in 2Pet. 3:1-2, had Peter write: This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance:2 That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour: 
     Respect for God is “agreeing to recognize and to abide by” God’s Word.  This cannot be done while “holding to” the “old life” and old ways.  We can see in Eph. 4:21-23 how this can be accomplished.  If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation (manner of life) the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;   Fill your mind with God’s Word and His Commandments.   “Crucify the old man” and his deeds and do as God directs in His Word.  Take care of the “business of life” and prepare for life hereafter.   Respect God and His Word.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Bringing Out The Best In Us

Bringing Out The Best In Us

     We’ve all likely commented about someone who positively influences us: “So and so brings out the best in me”.   We all have folks who seem to sway us one way or the other, hopefully for the better.   This may very well be the case, but in the end, each person is totally responsible for his or her own “shaping”.   The Spirit had the psalmist state it thusly: “My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law.” (Psa 119:109)   This not only tells us our responsibility, but also the means whereby we can bring out the best in ourselves with the aid and assistance of the Word of God.  
     Perhaps we should examine this in the same way as the great sculptor and painter Michaelangelo did regarding a block of marble.   He is reported to have said: “The sculpture is already complete within the marble block before I start my work. It is already there; I just have to chisel away the superfluous material.” Some have simplified this and repeated it as: “The statue is already in the stone. I need only remove all that is not part of the statue.”  The concept is the same and applies to us as well, but not in the exact same way. Within each of us is the capacity to be the ‘best we can be’. However, there is a problem when folks ascribe to various standards rather than the one God set in His Word.
     Above, we pointed out what the Spirit had the psalmist write. Sometime in the past, people developed a ‘skewed’ idea of this. Some expect God to ‘mold’ them into what He wants them to be rather than conforming themselves into what He has stated within His Word. One hymn that seems to project this false idea is “Have Thine Own Way, Lord”, written by composer George Stebbins and lyricist Adelaide Pollard, and published in 1907. The idea in the song is a clear misapplication of Jer. 18:1-6 and God’s declaration that He would do with Israel as He chose. A reading of the remainder of the chapter clearly shows this was a warning for Israel to repent or be destroyed. God has never ‘made’ anyone, individual or nation, do anything against their will. If indeed God ‘molds’ us into something we do not desire, we don’t have ‘free will’, do we?
     Indeed, the idea for the song also comes from Isa. 64:8 where the Spirit had the prophet write: “we all are the work of thy hand.” But this indicates that all humanity is part of God’s creation, not that He ‘molds’ us or ‘makes us do His Will. The first stanza of the songs says: “Mold me and make me after Thy Will, while I am waiting, yielded and still.” True, we must “yield” to God, but we cannot “be still” (do nothing) and be pleasing to God. Jas. 4:17 makes this plain. Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. God’s Word is good and the following of it is good. To not follow it is sin.
     The second stanza of the song says: “Whiter than snow Lord wash me just now, As in Thy presence humbly I bow”. None have ever been “washed whiter than snow simply by praying.   This is Jesus doing all the work, and the individual doing nothing but asking for blessing. In some hymnals the third verse desires: “Touch me and heal me, Savior divine.” Where is our obedience in this? The fourth stanza says: “Have Thine own way Lord, Have Thine own way. Hold over my being absolute sway.” Again, this is asking Christ to ‘mold’ us, or ‘make us’ into what He wants us to be, with Him doing all the work and us being the beneficiary. God never intended this.  
     This doctrine of God, (Christ or the Holy Spirit) ‘molding us’ against our will is refuted in Rom. 12:2 as the Spirit had Paul write to the Lord’s church in Rome. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. What ‘brings out the best’ in us in this?   Surely it is not by adapting ourselves to the whims and ways of the world! 1John 2:15 commands the opposite. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.Verses 16-17 identifies these things of the world and warns that the world and its lusts will pass away. Verse 17 concludes with: “but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
     What must we do to ‘bring out the best’ in us so that we may ‘abide forever’? Seek to know God’s Will and commit ourselves to doing it daily.   In Matt. 6:33, as Jesus preached the great Sermon on the Mount, He told His Jewish audience: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” The kingdom of God is the church. We find in Psa. 119:172 that God’s Word is righteousness. My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness. It is from the Word of God we know of the love of God, and the manifestation of that love in the sending of Christ to die on the cross to purchase the church. It is from God’s Word that we can learn what it takes to ‘bring out the best’ in us.
    Gal. 6:9 tells us one way to help the Word to bring out the best in us. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.This was the same idea the Spirit had Paul convey in Phil. 3:13-14. This will require focus on our part. He wrote: Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 
     If we press forward, be not weary, and do so in accordance with God’s Word, we are promised eternity with God.   But this is not possible unless or until one obeys God’s New Testament plan of Salvation.   Obey the gospel, remain in the Word of God, do His Will, and let the Word ‘bring out the best’ in you, as you follow it daily.    

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Bravo! Bravo!

Bravo! Bravo!

     Bravo is a rather well-known exclamation used to express approval when a performer or other person has done something well. It has its origin in Italy and its original meaning is “skillful”.   It came to mean “well done”. This is likely why this word is called out during applause at the conclusion of a performance. The desire to be praised drives many in sports, entertainment, politics, and in the workplace. If we are honest, we all want to hear well done, good job, superb, or something of that sort when we’ve put forth effort to achieve or produce.
     However, not everyone who walked the earth desired to be called “good’ or sought to be praised. In Matt. 19, Mark 10, and Luke 18, we have an account of one who has become to be known as “the rich young ruler”. In the first of these accounts, Matt. 19:16-26, we have the powerful lesson taught by Christ. When this young man called Christ “good”, Jesus said: “Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God:”. He then provided the advice needed under every dispensation for one to be pleasing to God. It was: “but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.
    Before this, we find in the latter part of Mark chapter 7, Jesus was brought a deaf man that also had an impediment in his speech. They desired Christ to ‘lay hands’ on him so the man would be healed.    Rather than publicly bringing attention to Himself as He honored their request, He took the man aside and performed a miracle. After Christ uttered the Word meaning “Be opened”, verse 35 tells us: “And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain.” In verse 36 Christ “charged them that they should tell no man”. Nevertheless, they published (told it) greatly. They didn’t say “Bravo!”, but according to verse 37 they were quite impressed. In fact, we are told they were “beyond measure astonished”. Their assessment was correct on both points. They reported: “he maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak” and said: “He hath done all things well”.  Everything Christ did was to the glory of God and was “well done”!
       There have always been those who sought “acclaim” and praise of man for the things they would do on earth.   One of the earliest examples of this is the Gen. 11:4 account of the ‘tower builders’ of the plain of Shinar. Their desire for acclaim is clearly stated in the declaration of their plans. “And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.” They obviously wanted men to say to them – “Bravo!” or “Well done!” We all know how that worked out for them. Rather than being praised, we read in Gen. 11:9 - Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth. 
     Another Biblical example of one who reveled in the praise and adoration of man is king Herod in Acts 12:20-23. From the text it is apparent that Herod set up a situation, using his authority as king, wherein he would make a speech and it was evident he expected the applause and approval of the crowd. A quick reading of this account gives support to the saying: “Be careful what you ask for because you might get it.” The origin of this saying is Aesop's Fables, the world's best-known collection of morality tales.  He is credited with writing - Have you ever made a wish and got what you wanted, only for the reality to fall way short of the expectation?   What did Herod ‘wish’? The approval of the people. He got that and more - Acts 12:22-23 - And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.23 And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost. (This was still the age of miracles).
     The Spirit provided the prophet Words in Isa. 2:12 which foretell of the establishment of the church, and the requirement of all to humble themselves before God and be obedient, prophesied: For the day of the LORD of hosts shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, and upon every one that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low: This is reiterated in 1Pet. 1:24as the Spirit has the apostle write of the “new birth” brought about through obedience to the Word of God. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: The praise of men, the ‘Bravos’, the ‘attaboys’, the ‘pats on the back’, all shall pass away just as will those who offer them.  
     Rather, should we not seek God’s praise and approval? We should all seek to hear the Words of Matt. 25:20 & 23 which were spoken by the “lord of those servants” to the five and two talent men. Upon seeing the evidence of their fidelity, they received the sweet Words: “Well done . . . enter thou into the joy of thy lord”. Christ was telling the Jews of His day they would shortly have the opportunity to become part of the church for which Jesus would die.
     In Phil. 1:9-11the Spirit also had Paul write to the Philippians and say: And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; 10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; 11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. 
     Don’t seek accolades of men. Seek the approval of God. Start by obeying the gospel, then faithfully serve Him according with the New Testament the rest of your life. Do this, and when the Lord returns to receive His own, you’ll also hear the Words: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant”.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Let Your Conscience Be Your Guide?

Let Your Conscience Be Ye Your Guide?

      It is likely you’ve heard the advice that forms our title at some point in your life. This is probably because of our familiarity with the Disney character Jiminy Cricket from the 1940 Disney version of Pinocchio.  Interestingly, Pinocchio was written in 1883 by Carlo Collodi, an Italian writer. Jiminy Cricket, in the original book was a ‘talking cricket’ who was killed by Pinocchio, then returned as a ghost in this fictional story.   It is easy to see how Walt Disney could transform Jiminy Cricket into the “conscience” for a wooden boy - turned real.
   While the Disney animated version of this story was ‘innocent’ entertainment and designed for children, the underlying message in the film is misleading. The song: Give a Little Whistle in the film, written by Cliff Edwards and Dickie Jones, has Jiminy provide this advice. “When you get in trouble and you don’t know right from wrong, Give a little whistle! Give a little whistle! When you meet temptation and the urge is very strong, Give a little whistle!   Give a little whistle!  Not just a little squeak, Pucker up and blow. And if your whistle’s weak, yell “Jiminy Cricket!” Take the straight and narrow path and if you start to slide, Give a little whistle! Give a little whistle! And always let your conscience be your guide!   And always let your conscience be your guide!
    The real problem with the idea in the film is that Pinocchio had to rely upon another for his conscience. Gal. 6:7-8 makes it clear that each is responsible for his or her actions. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. 
   Humans are born with the capacity to think and to develop the capacity to reason. This will determine what their conscience is. Conscience by definition is a cognitive process that elicit emotion and rational associations based on an individual’s moral philosophy or value system.  This is another way to describe the remorse a person feels when they commit an act that conflicts with their moral values.  
     The term ‘conscience’ is not found in the Old Testament, but this does not mean that the idea is not prevalent there.   Man is really no different today than when God created him. When God made Adam of the ‘dust of the earth’, we know he had the capacity to reason. Surely something equipped Adam to state what each animal was when God presented them before him.   Gen. 2:19 makes this abundantly clear. And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof. 
       Man was also created with full ability to fear, feel shame, be angry, and a host of other feelings and emotions as Gen. 3:10; Gen. 4:5; & Gen 4:8 clearly show. We also know from previous events that man had participated in, that man has always been given a choice. This is why the Spirit had the psalmist pen the Words we read in Psa. 119. My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law.  The Spirit was having the psalmist remind us that what is in our mind is that which we will follow. This is supported by Prov. 23:6-7, as we are warned of “him that hath an evil eye”, because “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he:” In other words, if we think on things that are ‘true; honest; just; pure; lovely; of good report; things of virtue and praise, as Phil. 4:8 directs, these types of things will manifest themselves in our lives.
     Cain’s countenance fell when God’s response to his offering affirmed what Cain already knew (Gen. 4:5) – that Cain had disobeyed God. In Gen. 4:7a God told Cain: If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door.  When one does what he/she knows to be wrong, their mind (the conscience) should be deeply affected. But this is not always the case.
     There are at least two situations in which the ‘conscience’ is not a reliable guide. 1) When one is untaught, or improperly taught as the Spirit had the apostle Paul declare in Acts 23:1: “And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day. A reading of the 22nd chapter clearly shows Paul was speaking of him being properly taught by Ananias and his obedience to the gospel. In Acts 26:9 we find how Paul’s ‘conscience’ guided him before he was properly taught and before he obeyed the gospel. I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 2) When one allows his “heart” (mind or conscience) to become hardened. Both situations are as prevalent today as they have always been. 1Tim. 4:2 speaks of some, who are clearly identified as those who have departed from the faith. Their ‘conscience’ is seared as “with a hot iron;Eph. 4:19 describes such as “being past feeling” and as a result, give themselves over to all sorts of “lasciviousness”. The previous verse states: Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:(Eph 4:18).  
     One cannot enter eternity to be ever with God: 1) not taught properly, and therefore not obeying, or, 2) So “stiff necked” and hardened so they only follow their own will.   Remember the Words of Jer. 10:23 - O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps. Don’t depend on your ‘conscience’ to be your guide or save you. It won’t! Also remember the Words of Christ in Jno. 8:32 - And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. Let the Word of God (the truth) be your guide.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

Sin and Iniquity

Sin and Iniquity

      For our benefit, man has been given a great gift from God.  He sent His Son to die on the cross and He sent His Spirit to bring His Word. One might wonder why such was needed. On the other hand, many take this for granted. God has a purpose for all He has done and will do. God is omniscient, meaning He knows everything. This includes what was yet to be revealed. For instance, we are told in Mark 13:32, that while He was on earth, there were some things which had not been yet revealed to the Christ. In context, this was speaking of the fall of Jerusalem, as Christ revealed in Mark 13:30 would occur in that generation.
     However, Christ knew and revealed to Zacchaeus, His purpose for coming to earth in Luke 19:10. Christ said: “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.But what makes one lost?    We all know the story of Zacchaeus, the publican, who was a ‘wee little man’ who climbed into the Sycamore tree to see the Christ Who was to pass that way. Notice what the crowd murmured in Luke 19:7. And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner.”  From this we must all conclude that sin or iniquity makes one lost.
     This aligns perfectly with Isa. 59:2 which also shows that “lost” is separated from God, and that sin and iniquity produces such a condition. Incidentally, per this verse, if one has ‘unrepented’ sin or iniquity in their lives, God will not hear them (their prayers). But before we go on, let’s define sin and iniquity. The biblical definition of sin is found in 1John 3:4b: “for sin is the transgression of the law” (KJV).  To sin is to transgress, or break, the law of God. The Bible says a lot about sin. It tells us that all have sinned (Rom. 3:23) and that sin leads to death (Rom. 6:23).   Iniquity is a violation of the right or duty that mankind is under obligation to do.   An iniquity can also be a wicked act and immoral conduct or practice.    These are harmful or offensive to society and, especially to God.    In the bible, the terms, sin, and iniquity are often used interchangeably. Participation in either of these separates one from God.
      Sins and iniquities are usually equated with doing something contrary to what God has Commanded. Often to see if one has sinned, they look for a “thou shalt” or a “thou shalt not” such as was stated in the Old Testament.    But one can also sin against God by ‘not doing’, as Jas. 4:17 shows.   Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.    The breaking of God’s Law under either Testaments is sin, whether it is by doing what God said not to do, or if it is by not doing what God Commanded.    When one sins, they separate themselves from God and need to be ‘redeemed’ from those sins.
     In 1Cor. 15:3 we are informed that Christ died “for our sins according to the scriptures”.    Many have embraced the false idea that Christ’s Blood, which He shed willingly on Calvary’s Cross, automatically covers all man’s sins.     It is most likely they have misapplied verses such as 1John 2:2, which reads: “And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.”   Couple this with John 3:16 (which most also often misapply), and some folks contend that Christ’s blood is accessed by simply believing, and then they are ‘saved’.    This is not what that verse says or means.
     Perhaps they haven’t ever read Rom. 3:25 which reads: “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; ”   Maybe they don’t fully understand what propitiation means. It means “the action of propitiating or appeasing God”.   The blood of Christ, if/when correctly applied, appeases the wrath of God.    Because of our sin, we all rightly should suffer eternal punishment as the psalmist penned in Psa. 103:10 as the Spirit directed: He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. God has truly been gracious to man.
      This brings up the question: “How do I properly access the Blood of Christ so my sins can be forgiven?”   It’s a great question and deserves a Bible answer.   There is not a single verse that answers this, nor is there a single act that brings one into contact with Christ’s blood.    The process is found in several verses and requires several steps.   (1) Hearing (the gospel) is required per Rom. 10:17.   (2) Belief is definitely a part of the process as Jesus taught in John 8:24.      (3) Then, one must repent (turn away from their sins) – Luke 13:3.    (4) Following this, one must confess Christ as the Son of GodRom. 10:9-10.    (5) Finally, as we read in Acts 16:22, 1Pet. 3:21, Acts 2:41 & 47, folks are baptized into Christ, and their sins are washed away; they become children of God, they are saved from their past sins and are added to the church for which Jesus died.   (6) From this point forward, the Christian is to remain faithful until death – Rev. 2:10 & 1Cor. 9:27.
     What about those who have done these things and became children of God and have sinned afterward? How can these sins be remitted? Acts 8:21-22 is where this is addressed. Simon (the former sorcerer) ‘fell’ (sinned) as he offered the apostles money to buy the power conferred upon the apostles by the Spirit. He was told his “heart is not right in the sight of God.”    He was told to repent, and to pray to God for forgiveness. In so doing, per 1John 1:7, he was accessing the blood of Christ following his conversion.
     Why would one not want to seek to have their sins and iniquities addressed in accordance with what God has given in the New Testament?    Failure to do so is to be lost, remain lost, and be eternally separated from God.     All should seek to have of God, what the Spirit had penned in Heb. 10:17. “ And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

What Are We Learning, and Why?

What Are We Learning, and Why?

      If you’ve participated in any organized learning experience such as a class or a course of any duration, you perhaps have asked the question above. This may have been for various reasons. The answer should have been discovered before beginning the course or class. It is my understanding that many courses have a syllabus, which is an “outline of the subjects in a course of study or teaching”. It makes sense to me that one would “investigate” a bit to see if the course of study is one in which they desire to participate. Also, what are the costs? What are the benefits?
     Of course, if you have obeyed the gospel, and therefore are a Christian, you must have had some instruction (heard the gospel), or there is no way you could have obeyed. The Christian life is to be one of learning, and learning requires study as 2Tim. 2:15 shows. The Spirit had the apostle Paul write this admonition to the young preacher Timothy. These Words are equally applicable today. It is surely apparent that the approval we are to be seeking is that of God and not man. This is a ‘positive’ verse and requires the ‘rightly dividing’ (handling aright) the Word of God.
     Notice that the above-mentioned verse is ‘sandwiched’ between ‘negative’ verses. In the 14th verse, caution was advised to “strive not about words to no profit”. It is also pointed out that to go about striving about words is the means for “subverting of the hearers”. Therefore, we MUST be diligent in what we are learning.  Verses 16 & 17 provide the “why”. “Profane and vain babblings” are to be shunned because they “increase to more ungodliness”.    Left alone, they “eat as doth a canker” (an ulcer). Some ‘translations’ call this a cancer, and the effect is about this same, but this is a mistranslation from the original Greek.
    The point is well made. Improper teaching results in improper learning and this lends itself to false doctrine being practiced. One cannot be taught wrong and expect to obey correctly. To think otherwise is to negate the whole idea of teaching & learning as everyone could do as they wish and call it obedience.
     For one to learn they must be taught. The Lord knew this and addressed the situation in Matt 15:9. As some were ‘teaching’ the “commandments of men” as doctrine, others followed, and participated in “vain worship”. Howbeit, just before He ascended to His Heavenly Father, He instructed His apostles to “Go, teach, baptize, and teach” (much emphasis on teaching) in Matt. 28:18-20.  He had been given all authority. His ministry had been completed and His mission successful. His earthly message had been about the things of the kingdom (the church for which He died). His final instruction (teaching) to the apostles in this book’s account is given. “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:” It is apparent that what is taught and what is learned is of utmost importance.
      If the same thing is taught and the same things learned, the same thing will be put into practice. In Phil. 3:16 the Spirit had Paul state it: “Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.” Would not this “rule” be what had been taught and learned?   Paul’s ways “in Christ” were evident and also being taught and learned “every where in every church” (congregation) 1Cor. 4:17, as there is only one church per Eph. 4:4-6. The Spirit also had Paul write another young preacher and give him instruction that also applies to us in Titus 2:11-12. If we learn from this, we will be “denying ungodliness and worldly lusts” and should seek to “live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;”. If this is taught, learned, and put into daily practice, unity and fidelity among brethren and congregations would exist, and physical and spiritual growth would occur.
      Otherwise, as the Words of 1Tim 6:3-5 indicate, the teacher in question doesn’t consent to sound words, and fails to adhere to the “doctrine which is according to godliness; “, and “is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, 5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness:”. We are commanded to withdraw from such.
     In 2Tim. 2:2 we see how the Spirit had Paul direct Timothy about teaching. This shows how sound Biblical teaching is to be perpetuated. Paul received his message directly from the Holy Spirit, so Paul was teaching by inspiration. That same message was to be received and passed on to “faithful men who shall be able to teach others” the same message.  There were not to be changes due to various circumstances or situations.  God’s plan and God’s message does not change.   Any teaching in the religious realm that cannot be proven by a ‘thus sayeth the Lord’ or by searching the scriptures is false and is not to be learned or followed.  This is also supported by 1Peter 4:11. “Speaking” here is directly referencing teaching. “If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God.”   We should remember that it is God’s Word which we speak and teach and not our own.
     Another way to ensure we are seeking to learn the correct things is to ask ourselves “why” I am learning?  Am I seeking to learn to support what I’ve always been taught so I can defend it?   Or am I seeking to learn what God would have me know so I can obey Him and serve Him?   Am I seeking to learn so that I may ‘please’ others?   Perhaps we should all learn Gal. 1:10b. “ . . . or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.”  A lot depends on what we learn and why we learn it.  How we use what we learn, as well as our soul’s destiny depends on it.    Think about it!

Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ

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