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Can You Find Real Joy or Peace?
Can You Find Real Joy or Peace?
Many are looking for joy, especially during this, the holiday season. Much effort is put forth to find and retain joy. Peace and Joy are also themes for many gatherings during this time of year. Many are devoted to seeking happiness and look for it in various ways. While they seek what they deem happiness or joy, they do so based on their own definition of happiness or joy. The questions that needs to be asked is: “What is it that makes you happy?” or “What brings you joy?” and “Why do these things bring you joy, or make you happy?”
The things that make you happy, or brings you joy, are those things which are of the most importance to you. When these things happen as you desire them to happen, it causes within you a feeling of contentment or bliss. When the things you participate in to find peace or joy do not go as you desire, the opposite effect occurs. Perhaps if you look to the start of the season of a particular sporting event, and if the beginning of the season is delayed, or if at the end of the season, your “team” doesn’t win, sadness or dissatisfaction becomes the “feeling” of the moment.
In Psalm 122:1 we see what it was that made David happy. I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD. This is the same direction the Spirit had the psalmist write in Psalm 32:11 so the people of Israel could find their happiness in what the Lord had provided for those that love Him. Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart. The same is found in Habakkuk 3:18 where the prophet is praying to the God of heaven. God had provided Israel with strength through His Word. This should have caused all of Israel to praise God and have joy in their hearts. It did for Habakkuk. Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.
But one cannot, in any dispensation, have the joy of the Lord, unless His Word is taken in and applied. The Spirit had Jeremiah express it this way in Jeremiah 15:16. Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.
God’s people today are known as Christians. He has provided much more for mankind in this, the final dispensation of time than ever before. The purpose of the other dispensations of time was to bring about joy through redemption. The Spirit had the apostle Paul write in Romans 5:10-11 that reconciliation to God, and to be the recipients of the atonement Christ died for is attainable. It is also this reconciliation that should bring “joy” and “peace” to the Christian. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
Those who are Christians who have lost that joy, or no longer realize the peace that comes by being in Christ need to request as did the psalmist in Psalm 51:12 that their joy be restored. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. However, none will find the joy, or be restored to peace unless they work toward it. This is perhaps why the Spirit in Philippians 2:12 had Paul write what he did to those brethren. Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. We all have to work to maintain our joy in Christ and the peace of God.
There are many who put forth a great deal of time, money and effort in whatever endeavors they undertake while seeking joy or happiness. Often times folks will put off all the other things of life to pursue happiness. More often than not, these types of pursuits don’t deliver the happiness the person desired. Also, those seeking joy or peace from various sources are not usually inclined to take advice from others.
But, one seeking the peace and joy God offers will readily and gladly receive the advice God sent through the Spirit. In 1John 1:3-4 we find that what was delivered (the Word of God) was given that men might be in fellowship with God and that they would have abundant joy. That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. 4 And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.
One way that a Christian’s joy can remain full is if their fellow Christians, especially our own children, and other loved ones remain faithful and continue to grow and learn as they mature in the faith. In 3John verse 4 we find Words to this effect the Spirit gave John to write in the last general epistle that bears his name. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. So, for the Christian, joy can be had by following what has been written as well as when others do it. In fact, joy is listed as one of the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22, and we know that God desires that we produce fruit. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
Let’s all seek to find that real joy and peace, in the Word of God, not only during this holiday season, but throughout the entire year. If we do what God says to do in His Word we will have joy, peace and the promise of salvation. Jesus depicted this in Matthew 25:21. Read and study and rightly divide His Word. Do what is directed in His Word and that joy prepared for the obedient and faithful can be yours. His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Is There Peace In Your Life?
Is There Peace In Your Life?
Peace is something that represents various things to different people. Quite a few years ago, “peace” was a slogan to many and was often signified by a pendant worn around the neck or emblazoned on shirts, jackets or embroidered on patches to add to garments as needed to make a statement. Those who embraced this sort of peace were the ones that were rising up “against the establishment” in opposition to all they thought to be oppressive or controversial. These same folks often would greet one another with the index and middle fingers raised in “V” formation and say something like “peace man” regardless of the gender of the person being regarded.
In 1961, around the time of the “peace” movement, there was a program started named the “Peace Corps”. This is a volunteer program run by the U.S. government. Its official mission per its website is: to provide social and economic development abroad through technical assistance, while promoting mutual understanding between Americans and populations served. The organization promotes “world peace” by striving to fulfill three goals: 1) To help the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women. 2) To help promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples served. 3) To help promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of Americans.
It sounds to me that the idea of the “peace movement” of the 60’s as well as the formation of the Peace Corps, was an effort on the part of many to simply get along. It is also true that getting along is directly proportionate to the lack of friction. This is perhaps why many have sought to “go along to get along”. That is why many seem willing to sacrifice the truth in an effort to get along with others. But, this is not the idea conveyed in the Scriptures, nor is it the reason for which Christ died. Getting along is important, but forsaking truth to do so is not what God intended when He sent His Son or when He sent His Word through the Spirit.
All the Greek words translated “peace” in the New Testament carry with them the idea of a calmness, stillness or quietness. In Matthew 10:13, Jesus having sent His disciples out on the Limited Commission, directed them to bring peace to Israel by preaching Christ and the upcoming kingdom. Then in vs 14 He also instructed them as to how to respond when that Word was rejected. And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you. 14 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.
Then in the same chapter, in Matthew 10:34-35, Jesus also let them know that the peace that He offers is not simply that of an outward nature, or of that just on the surface. Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. 35 For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. He said this because not all are willing to accept His Word, His teaching, or His direction. Those that will not accept the Word of God and submit to it are not going to find the peace that is found only in Christ. In Romans 3:17-18 the Spirit had Paul write of this so that the Roman Christians could identify those without the same desire which they had. And the way of peace have they not known: 18 There is no fear of God before their eyes.
Those looking for the “surface” peace the world has to offer are much like the duck smoothly traversing a placid pond. On the surface all seems smooth and calm, but underneath or inside there is a great deal of turmoil. Under the surface those little webbed feet are churning to propel the animal toward its intended destination. We also have a destination, but turmoil, strife and confusion are not going to get us there.
The feet of the Christian are also to be prepared. Ephesians 6:15 tells us what part of the armor of God goes there. And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; The peace of God is spiritual. One that is seeking peace is to be spiritually minded as Romans 8:6 informs. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
The Spirit, through Paul, was closing his second and final letter to these brethren, in 2Corinthians 13:11, and they are instructed to be “complete” in Christ as they continue in “one mind” because this would bring them peace. Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you. Then in the 4th chapter, verses 8-9 of the Philippian letter, the Spirit has Paul tell these brethren how this peace can be attained. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. 9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. If we do those things, our hearts and minds will abide in the peace that is in Christ. Philippians 4:7 points this out to those brethren as well as to us. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
If we don’t have peace in our lives, we must first look to God and His Word; do the things taught there and be baptized into Christ. Then remain faithful. We can all be of one mind, teach the same things and dwell in unity and peace in Christ.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Our Time on Earth, What is it For?
Our Time on Earth, What is it For?
Have you ever wondered why you were put on this earth? What is your purpose while you are here? Many think it is to see how far you can go in life. Some think it is to see what they can accomplish or what they can attain. Such thinking shows that most folks do not know the Word of God. Jesus, in Luke 12:15 addressed this when one asked Him to intervene with his earthly inheritance. And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. Afterward, He spoke a parable about a man whose whole focus was on earthly gain. That man’s foolishness in this area of life becomes apparent when in vs 20 we see how God referred to Him, and told the man his time had run out. 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? After our time on earth is completed, someone else will have control of whatever it is that we have amassed while we were here.
Most folks also don’t give a great deal of thought to the fact that our time on earth is somewhat limited. The Spirit had James deal with this in James 4:13-15. Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: 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. 15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. This is why it is necessary to look into the perfect Law of Liberty to see what the Will of God is. James 1:25 tells us to receive the blessings of God one must look into the Word and continue in it. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
However, the blessings of God do not exist in just the temporal realm. True, God has blessed us with life, and all the good things of life. He has given good things to all of humanity. In the Sermon on the Mount in the latter part of Matthew 5:45, did not Jesus indicate this? He said: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. But, His blessings for man will continue beyond this life for all who are obedient and remain faithful to His Word. In 1Corinthians 15:19 the Holy Spirit had the apostle Paul tell those brethren that our time spent on this earth is not all there is. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.
Our time on this earth is to prepare for what lies beyond this life. This is because we do not cease to exist when life on this earth is over. In Hebrews 9:27 we are taught that all mankind has an appointment, and that there is also something else after that. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: Since we don’t cease to exist upon departure from this life, does it not seem that we ought to make preparation for that which lies beyond? Jesus told us in Luke 16:22-23 in the story of the rich man and Lazarus, of the two places where one will await that judgment. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;23And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. The reason each was in the place they were, was because of the way in which they spent their time while on earth. The whole story can be better understood by reading the entire account of Luke 16:19-31.
The two men of the story were both children of God as both were descendants of Abraham and lived under the Law of Moses. This should help us know that even the children of God in this, the last dispensation of time must make preparation for our existence beyond our time in this life. Jesus, in the latter part of John 10:10 spoke of the life beyond this one. He said: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. Those of us who have been obedient to the gospel are also the children of God, but we can miss what God has promised if we leave this life unprepared. The Spirit had Paul, in 1Timothy 6:18-19, speak to those of the church (children of God) that had been blessed with the riches of the world so that they would know how to prepare for that time. That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; 19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. These preparations not only bring us to the promise of eternal life, but continuance in the teachings of the Word of God helps us to remain prepared for that which lies beyond this life.
But, we cannot do this alone. In John 15:5 Jesus told His disciple this. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. He came and died so we could prepare for eternity. But, just because He came doesn’t mean that we automatically will be granted entrance into that heavenly home. He gave His blood as the Supreme Sacrifice. Jesus has done His part; now we must do ours. One place the Spirit told us how we can begin to prepare for eternity while we spend our time here on earth is 1Peter 5:6. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: The way we humble ourselves before God is to be obedient to His Word. If we do what God has commanded, He will exalt us when His Son returns and the judgment occurs. Can you think of any better way, or for any better cause on which to spend our time? Think about it !
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Our Greatest Birthday
Our Greatest Birthday
Birthdays are the celebration of the day we were born. If asked, what would you say was your greatest birthday? The answer to this question often depends on how many we have had and what happened on those days. Some might say it was their 16th, when they were allowed by law to receive a driver’s license. Some might say when they were old enough to vote. Others, when they were old enough to marry and start a family. Young children might think of some of the gifts or theme parties that occurred on their birthdays and that one would be the greatest or most memorable. Some of us have enjoyed quite a few more birthdays than others, so our answer might be harder to determine.
How many would say that the greatest “birthday” we ever had was the one in which we were re-born? Is that not a birthday? Jesus said it was. We are all familiar with the night-time conversation in John 3:5-6 that Jesus had with Nicodemus. He was speaking of one being born of the Spirit. Does that birth not constitute a “birthday” – your spiritual birthday? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
The problem with a lot of folks today is that they are unaware, or unsure how this “new birth” is to come about or that the kingdom yet exists. John 1:12-13 tells us that Jesus gave us the power to become sons of God. 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: 13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. That “power” according to what the Spirit had the apostle Paul write in Romans 1:16 is the gospel. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
But how does this power work? Some people claim that this verse teaches that all one has to is believe. Children are not born to parents in the physical realm simply by them believing they can have children. It takes more than believing in the spiritual realm as well. In Mark 16:15 Jesus explained what was to be done with this gospel.
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Then in verse 16 He tells what the gospel directs one to do. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. So, when one is baptized into Christ, they are born spiritually and at the same time become a child of God. This is their spiritual birthday. Remember that Jesus told Nicodemus that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
What does baptism do? An explanation of 1John 5:8 can help us to see how this works. And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. The Spirit brought the gospel and delivered it to those who wrote it. The gospel tells us we are to be baptized in water for the remission of sins. When one is baptized in water in accordance to the teaching of the gospel, they contact the blood of Christ, which cleanses one from sin. This is how they bear witness in earth. This is also why Christ died on the cross.
Under the O.T. Law the blood of bulls and goats was offered. But, that blood could not remit sins as Hebrews 10:4 informs. For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins. Before, in Hebrews 9:22 we are told why Christ came to die and give His blood. And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. This blood of Christ also ushers us into spiritual life. The blood of Christ must be contacted.
It is Romans 6:3-4 that points out that we are baptized into His death. And, It was in His death that Christ shed His precious blood. Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. This is also when one is “born” into the kingdom of Christ. Jesus told Nicodemus that a “re-birth” had to occur. This is when one is born again. And that birth requires the water and the Spirit.
Now that we know that the Spirit brought the Word of God, we might better understand Romans 8:14-17 as well as the benefits of being born into the kingdom of Christ. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. One can only become a “son” by being born or by being adopted. (The same thing in the N.T.)
Another benefit is found in 1John 5:4 where the Spirit tells us: For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. One must overcome the world to be with God for eternity. Have you been re-born? If so, that is indeed your greatest birthday. If not, you need to examine your beliefs and faith, then obey the gospel so you can be a child of God. This will not only be your greatest birthday, it is also the most important one you will ever have.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Are We Listening to God?
Are We Listening to God?
The word “listen” is only found once in the King James Bible. This does not mean that the idea of listening to God is not found within His Word. By definition, the word listen means “to give ear”, or to hear. God has used words and phrases such as “give heed”, “attend”, and “hear” in His Word to convey the idea that He wants His people to “listen” to Him.
Many in the world today fail to understand that God does not speak to man as He once did while His plan for humanity was being implemented and first begun to be carried out. There are those in the world even today that claim to have “heard” from God. This has been described as a “still small voice” or something like that. Some claim to hear God in nature, others in dreams, visions and in various miraculous ways. However, one cannot find or produce any evidence to support their claims that God has spoken directly to them.
God once spoke directly to men. He did so in the Garden of Eden. He did so to Noah, to Abraham, and to many others. He did so to direct them as to how they were to serve Him and to give them a choice. Man has always had the choice whether or not to listen to, or follow God. God talked to His people Israel through Moses and he passed God’s spoken Word to them. God continued to deliver His Word through the prophets (spoken and written) to tell His people Israel what to do, and how to do it. Often, they failed to listen to Moses, Joshua, the judges, the kings and the prophets, or others to whom God sent His Word.
Through the prophets, the Spirit wrote to Israel in that day, while God’s Law to them was in effect. He also wrote to His people, the church, when that New Law was decreed and put into effect. God’s Word to the church was not written until the gospel was preached at Pentecost and the church began. Therefore, the New Testament was written to Christians. Are we listening to God?
All of this is basically re-stated in Hebrews 1:1-2 as the Spirit, through the penman to the Hebrews Christians, tried to prevent them from becoming apostate in returning to Judaism. God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; This also explains how God is speaking to His people today.
In John 14:16 Jesus told His chosen apostles that He would provide them with something that would abide forever. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Many think this is the presence of the Spirit. However, if we look at what Jesus said to them in John 14:26 we can see they would be taught “all things” as well as be able to remember everything Jesus had said to them. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
Compare this to 2Peter 1:3 which is a part of a general epistle to the church and tells us what we (Christians) have been given. According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Then as we read 2Peter 1:4, surely we understand that it is God’s Word which tells of the promises He has made to those that love Him, serve Him and follow His Word. Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. It is within the Word and through the Word of God that His promises are given.
This is evidenced as that first gospel sermon in the New Testament age was preached in Acts chapter 2. Those that were gathered there were God’s physical children under the previous Law – the Law of Moses. They were now being given a choice to become “spiritual” children of God. In Acts 2:37 they were “pricked” in the heart by the message and had asked what they were to do. In Acts 2:38 they were told what to do. Then Peter said unto them, 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. Then in verse 39 we see the promise made to them and to all that were afar off. That promise was that God would speak to, and save all who would “hear” and “heed” to and obey the voice of God, His Holy Word. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. 2Thessalonians 2:14 also tells us how God “calls us”. Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. God will not speak to us as we speak to one another. He does not speak to one in a different way that He does to another as Acts 10:34 points out. God does not respect one’s person. Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: Therefore His message is the same to all. All have the same opportunity to hear and obey and all who do not will suffer the consequences and spend eternity in condemnation, separated from God. Shouldn’t we all want to “listen” to and obey God?
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Follow Me Boys
Follow Me Boys!
The title of this article is also the title of a 1966 Disney film in which Fred McMurray sets out to impress a young lady in the town where he had recently settled. He becomes a Boy Scout troop leader and then got caught up in the usual antics that accompany many a Disney movie of that era. The point of the movie is that folks look up to somebody and it is important to whom we look.
Many people seek folks to help guide them in careers, education, and in many various endeavors. There are those who have sought out “mentors”; those whom they look up to, for advice and instruction to achieve a particular goal.
Many a Christian has had the benefit of a mentor as they began their walk in the Christian life. This is the idea conveyed in 1Corinthians 4:15-16 in which the Spirit had Paul encourage the brethren there to “follow him”. For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16 Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me. This was not only because Paul had ”begotten” them through teaching and bringing them to an understanding of the truth. It was also because Paul would set a proper example before them. This was because Paul followed Christ. This is what the Spirit had Paul tell them in 1Corinthians 11:1. Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. This is what makes the difference.
We must also understand that following Christ means to follow God. In the letter to the Ephesians, The Spirit had Paul instruct them to do so because they were children of God. Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; Ephesians 5:1. One cannot follow Jehovah without following Christ and vice-versa. This is because Jehovah, Christ and the Spirit are God. 1John 5:7 informs us: For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
This brings up what I think is an excellent point. To follow God and to follow Christ is to follow the Spirit. The Thessalonian brethren were warned to not cease to follow the Spirit in 1Thessalonians 5:19 when they were told to: Quench not the Spirit. Unfortunately, many Christians do exactly that, when they fail to heed what the Spirit has delivered to us in the Bible, the Word of God. Perhaps this is what was being said in Galatians 5:5. How else would we know of the hope of eternal life without the Word of God? For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.
Christ always followed His Father’s Will. He told this to His disciples when He told them how to show their love for Him in John 15:10. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. Then in 1Peter 2:21 we read that the Lord is our perfect example. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
The question then becomes: Who is it you follow? That is the question we must ask ourselves as we continue through this life. Jesus, in Luke 16:13 said:
No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. The Christians to whom the Spirit had John write in his 3rd epistle were warned about this very thing. These people were asked to consider their choice in 3John vs 11. Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God. This warning is indeed very necessary as 2Peter 2:2 tells us that many make choice to follow the wrong things and do themselves and the church harm. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.
There are many other passages that convey the same idea without using the word follow. One such passage is Roman 6:16. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? Then as we read verses 17-18 we see that the Roman brethren had made the right choice and had chosen to follow the truth and be obedient to it. But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
Do we ever stop and consider who, or what it is that we follow? It is possible that we may try to deceive ourselves or others by saying the right things when this question comes up. The evidence of who or what we follow is in what we do. This is what Jesus said in Matthew 7:20 as He neared the end of the Sermon on the Mount. He said: Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
Now, what fruits are there in our lives that speak clearly to show we are following the Lord and His Word? To whom have we “yielded” ourselves servants to obey? Are we obedient to God, or are we following and serving sin? This is something we all should think about.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Ye Do Err
Ye Do Err
It is interesting that the word “err” is found only twenty four times in the King James Bible. Of these occurrences, only two are referencing “New Testament” people, those known as Christian. The first of these particular references is found in James 1:16 where an admonition against it is given. Do not err, my beloved brethren. The final reference to “err” is found in James 5:19. Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; . . . The other four “New Testament” references of “err”, are speaking of the Old Testament people of God. These are found in Matthew 22:29, Mark 12:24, Mark 12:27 and speak directly to Israelites during the time of Jesus, and Hebrews 3:10, speaking of the people of Israel that were slain in the wilderness for “erring” and refusing to do as God directed in His Word.
The Bible has long been recognized as the Word of God, but many fail to take it as it is, God’s Word written to His people. Think about it; would God need to write a book to tell those who are always in error that they are wrong. God’s Word was written to His people. In the Old Testament times we see that the written Word of God was delivered first to Moses in the form of the tables of stone. These are the Ten Commandments. The rest of God’s written Word was delivered by the Spirit to the prophets as Hebrews 1:1 informs. God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Are there any who would deny that the people to whom God spake by the prophets were any other than the “fathers” of the nation of Israel? Are there any that would contest that Israel was the people of God during the Old Testament times? In the eighteen O.T. occurrences of “err”, all were directed to God’s people.
Thus, it stands to reason that once “New Testament” time began, following the preaching on the day of Pentecost, when people became “Christians” through obedience to the commands, from that time forward God spoke to His “New Testament” people. To show this, we again go to Hebrews chapter 1; this time to Hebrews 1:2 we see the fact that God “hath spoken unto us by His Son. 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; The “us” here are Christians, as this was written in the “Christian age”.
The word “err” means to stray. When we consider “err”, what word comes to mind? One word is “error”. Is it possible then that these words were chosen by the Spirit to admonish the “people of God” not to stray? This is also logical. What would you call it if the wicked or evil “stray” from error or wickedness? Such is impossible as conversion requires a conscious action on the part of the one that is departing wickedness or evil to be obedient to God’s Word. The proof lies in such passages as 2Peter 2:18-19. Here we see the contrast between obedience and wickedness. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. 19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.
While the Bible in Romans 3:23 affirms that “all” have sinned, For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; this does not mean that all must remain in sin. In Acts 3:19 the Spirit had Peter speak to the people who witnessed the healing of the lame man. God wanted them to leave the error of Judaism and be converted to God’s New Testament plan of Salvation. This is the only way they could be saved. Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; When God removed the old Law to make way for the New, God’s people were expected to convert and follow that New Law.
Notice that Peter spoke the Word of God to them. This is the same thing Jesus said in Matthew 22:29 to those who tried to ensnare Him with their words about something in which they didn’t even believe. He said: Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God. Several years later the Spirit had Paul write in Romans 1:16 that the gospel is God’s power to save. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. This is what every Christian is to do. Christians are to call people out of error. If that person is not a Christian, one is to teach them the gospel plan of Salvation and if one who is a Christian errs, they are to be taught to repent and pray that they might be restored. Acts 8:22 is where Simon was so taught. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.
Don’t “err”! Apply only God’s plan. Go to His Word. Read what it teaches about how to be saved, to remain saved and follow it. Do it because you love God. To follow man’s many plans will not take you where you want to spend eternity. Even in the Old Testament, before Salvation was offered in Christ, God’s people were told this in Jeremiah 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.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Does It Matter What You Call It?
Does It Matter What You Call It?
When we were learning to talk, we were often corrected by our parents or maybe older siblings when we called something by the wrong name. That which is being taught is that the name of something matters. This is part of learning as we grow up. As we start to understand the significance of this we begin to call things as they should be called. We associate the things with the names we learn that go along with them
This is nothing new. God employed the calling of things to name the creatures of His creation. Ever wonder why animals are called what they are? Well, here’s the answer. Rather than “naming” everything as He created it, God brought them before Adam to see what he would call them. Genesis 2:19-20 is where we find this account. 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. 20 And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.
Names are obviously important. We use them to identify ourselves or others as we interact daily. For instance: “Hi, my name is: Dennis Strickland”, or “I’d like to introduce you to my wife: Linda”. Do these names matter? To me they do! I am not very likely to walk up to you and say: “Hi, my name is Tom”. Not that there is anything wrong with the name Tom. – It’s just not mine! If I am walking away from you and you call out “hey Tom!”, I am not likely to even turn back to you and ask if you are talking to me. I would probably figure that you see someone named Tom and are calling out to get his attention, not mine. To call out to me, one would use my name. The same is true with God’s people.
Why does this “name thing” seem to matter in all areas except religion? When you get someone to drive you to your place of employment, to where do you asked to be delivered? Do you just have them take you to “some street” in town? Do you not give the specific address, or name of the business at which you are employed? Then, what about the name that is on the check you expect to receive at the end of the work week? Would it matter if your paycheck was made out to me? I suspect that it would matter to you before I got to the bank.
As you go to the Doctor for a specific condition, does it matter if he or she pays no attention to the symptoms which you have, or the name of the drug given you to restore your health? Of course it matters. In fact, in any scenario I could present, most folks would point out how important it is to call things what they are. To do otherwise in many cases could cause disappointment, pain, injury, or in the most extreme cases, even death.
Why is it that many don’t realize or care if the name of the religious body with which they are associated is approved of God? Colossians 3:17 is explicit in its direction to the people of God in that location. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. The same thing applies to us today, including the name by which we are called. In the latter part of Acts 11:26 we are told that the disciples of the Lord; those doing what God authorized were given a name. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
Why is it then, that many religious people who insist on being called Christian, also insist on being called by a man made name at the same time? One that is a Christian is to wear the name of Christ and not the name of some man who started a denomination. God did not authorize those denominational names or doctrines. Through the pen of Paul in 1Corinthians 1:10-13, the Spirit was telling them to be Christian one is to be called by the name God authorized, and not by a man’s name. Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 11 For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. 12 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. 13 Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?
One cannot be approved of God and wear the name of a man’s organization or follow man made doctrine. According to Galatians 1:9-10, to wear the name of a body assigned by man, or to follow man’s doctrine is not pleasing to Christ. One who does is accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. 10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
Does it matter what you call it? To God it does. Let us strive to call things as God called them and do what God has directed in His Word. Our eternity with God depends upon it. Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Clean All Over
Clean All Over
Many a young boy has declared they are clean, to which their mother would check behind the ears or other places to ensure this to be the case. Most little boys are not fond of baths and getting clean. Nobody wants to be “scrubbed” when they think they are clean enough. I suppose that is why some mother, way back in time, with good intentions, came up with the phrase: “Cleanliness is next to Godliness”. This phrase was first recorded as being in a sermon in 1778 by John Wesley, but the idea is ancient, having been found in Babylonian and Egyptian religious tracts. (Wikipedia) Both of these points, coupled with the fact that this saying is nowhere found in the Bible, means that God has not coupled physical cleanliness with being godly.
There is however, a certain repulsiveness to one that is dirty, smelly, and who does not participate in good hygiene. The same is true “spiritually” in the eyes of God when one does not remain “clean”, which means one is not following His Word. In Luke 11:39 Jesus used the physical washing of one part of the cup and platter and the lack thereof in other parts of it to describe the kind of “filth” which characterized the Pharisees in His day. And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness. In several other places, He pointed out that they were hypocrites. They were not following God’s Word. Jesus drew the contrast between the Pharisees and His disciples in John 15:3 when He said how His disciples were clean. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. He was not speaking of bodily cleanliness in this situation.
Washing has been “symbolic” of cleanliness for many years. Pilate, in an effort to separate himself from the situation in which he cowardly felt he had no options, in Matthew 27:24 made a big production of washing his hands before the people. When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it. Pilate could not be clean of his part in this by “washing his hands” any more than his claim to be innocent made it so.
The Bible also uses “wash” and “washed” to indicate a spiritual cleanliness in several places following the beginning New Testament age. As we look to the instructions given to Saul in Acts 22:16 by Ananias, we see it was so that Saul could chose to be clean inside. And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. Then as we read 1Corinthians 6:11 we can see what the Spirit had Paul write regarding the condition these brethren were in following their obedience to the gospel. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. However, if you read vss 9-10 of the same book and chapter it is easy to see how “unclean” these people were before their conversions. Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. These folks, just like Saul, were “washed” when they were baptized into Christ. When one is baptized into Christ, he or she is as clean as they will ever be.
This is the idea being conveyed in Psalms 51:2 where the Spirit had the Psalmist express his desire to be “clean all over”. Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. Then in Psalms 119:9 the Spirit had him write how this can be accomplished. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. This has been true in the sight of God throughout time as He has directed young men, desiring their devotion and obedience.
When it comes down to it, one has to decide which type of “clean” is of most importance to them. In Matthew 15:19-20 Jesus contrasted physical and spiritual cleanliness so we could know the difference. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: 20 These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.
There once was a commercial that said: “You’re not fully clean until you’re Zestfully clean”. God’s Word tells us one is not fully clean until you’re “spiritually” clean. Now, that’s clean all over! Seek to be clean “all over” as God directs in His Word. Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ.
Self Deception
Self-Deception
If we have lived any time in this life we are aware that there are folks in the world with the intent to deceive others. The Spirit had the apostle Paul address being deceived in Titus 3:3 and has Paul include himself in this. For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. Notice that it is pointed out that being deceived is foolish. This is speaking of the time in our life prior to hearing and obeying the gospel.
God does not deceive anyone. In fact, according to 2Peter 1:3 God has given us all we need so that we need not be deceived; not even by ourselves. According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: In Ephesians 4:14 we see that the desire of God is that we be united in Christ and no longer be deceived by the doctrines of man. That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
Often, those who deceive others, do so for the benefit of the one doing the deceiving. That is why they do it. Why they feel like they need to deceive others is perhaps because of laziness, or a feeling of inadequacy or something of that nature. That being understood, it becomes a bigger mystery as to why one would deceive themselves. What benefit is there to it? The answer is none!
The fact is that self-deception is the worst kind of deception. We’ve all heard the old saying: “Fool me once, shame on you. But, fool me twice, shame on me.” But self-deception would force the changing of the saying to be: “I fooled me once, shame on me. I fooled me twice, shame on me!” Doesn’t make sense does it? It cannot make sense as one cannot “fool” themselves and gain anything from it. Then why is self-deception so prevalent in this world today? Why are people so deluded in regard to where they and their loved ones will spend eternity when they do nothing to prepare for eternity?
It is because folks are willing to lie to themselves. That is what self-deception is. When a person lies to themselves, they do so to convince themselves of things that are not so. This is the reason the Spirit had Paul warn the Ephesians of the potential of speaking “vain words” to themselves in Ephesians 5:6. The phrase “no man” would also include themselves. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. When a Christian lies to themselves, they sin and have become “children of disobedience”. If one argues that this is not as clear as it could be, they should be directed to 1Corinthians 3:18 where the idea of self-deception is dealt with directly. Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. (To become a fool as the world sees it = obeying and serving God.)
Many have deceived themselves into thinking that regardless of how they live while in this life they will end up in heaven for eternity. In 2Thessalonians 1:7-9 the Spirit had Paul state what will really happen, and no amount of self-deception is able to change this. And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, 8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; The idea that one’s loved one will “miss” heaven is a hard one for many to grasp or admit. Therefore many deceive themselves into thinking that there is no place of punishment awaiting those who are disobedient to God.
The rich man of Luke chapter 16 was one who deceived himself as he lived in abundance and enjoyed all that life had to offer, except obedience to God. When he died, he soon realized in Luke 16:23 that he had indeed deceived himself, but by then it was too late. And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. Notice that he was not in the same place as Lazarus. “Hell” here is the part of the Hadean realm where the disobedient (and the self-deceivers) will go to await the judgment; while those that were obedient to God and remained faithful to God and His Word in this life will go to a place of peace and comfort to await the judgment.
Let us not deceive ourselves into thinking that we have “made it” and are guaranteed a place in heaven as do so many “deluded” religious people. We must continue to “work” toward our salvation. Let us do as the Spirit had Paul write the brethren in Philippi so they would not deceive themselves, and would remain faithful until death or the return of the Lord. (Philippians 2:12) Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
