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An Inspired Guarantee
An Inspired Guarantee
Isn’t it a good feeling to have a guarantee? I know when we are forced to buy a new appliance, tool or even a new car, it is very comforting to know that if the product quits working properly, provided I didn’t do something to cause it, the repair or replacement would be covered by the provider. These guarantees are usually in writing and often times there are qualifications that must be met for the guarantee to remain in effect. In the case of the purchases mentioned above, the buyer must have purchased the item, or keep the payments up if it is a large purchase. The seller, or the one that provided the product is the one that offers the guarantee. With these types of guarantees, the seller or provider promises that the product will work as it should or give the service for which it was designed for a specified period of time without problem or defect.
The single greatest “purchase” ever made was made for us by Jesus Christ, the Son of God. He came to earth, born of a virgin, and lived a prefect life with one focus throughout. That focus was to do the Will of His Heavenly Father. Part of doing that Will, was to die on Calvary’s cross. It was upon the cross where He shed His life’s blood to provide Salvation for all who would follow Him and be obedient to the gospel which was first preached on Pentecost following the resurrection and ascension of Christ. When He ascended, Christ took His precious blood to the Father to purchase the church. Acts 20:28 is where the Spirit had Paul admonish the Ephesian elders, then remind them of what Christ purchased when He shed His blood on the cross and took it to His Father. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
John 1:12-13 shows that Christ’s blood gave mankind the power to become the children 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. Once the blood of Christ is contacted in baptism, one is “born again”, and they become a child of God. This is where the guarantee comes in.
When one becomes a child of God by contacting the blood of Christ, they have been given the promise of eternal life by God in 1John 2:25. And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. Then in accordance to 1John 5:13 we read that we can “know” we have eternal life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. But as we have already read, we have eternal life in promise. It is promised to us only if 1) we have been born again 2) if we remain faithful.
We also have been given instructions which, if followed, guarantee us that we will receive that which God has promised. Space here will not permit the listing all the things required of us, but they are found in 2Peter 1:5-7. Then we read in vs 8 “if these things be in us and abound” we will “neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of” Christ. If we lack them we are “blind and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten” that we were “purged from” our “old sins”. (vs 9) Then in 2Peter 1:10 we find the inspired guarantee. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: There you have it; the guarantee of God to man in writing!
As we pointed out earlier, we – the end user of the product – in our case, what God has promised, eternal life, have the responsibility to not forfeit this “inspired guarantee” by misuse or improper handling. The Christian Jews, the Hebrews were in danger of doing so when tempted to return to the Law of Moses by the Judaizing teachers. The Spirit had the writer of Hebrews admonish them in Hebrews 10:23 and also remind them that God is faithful of His promise to man. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) We are also aware from 2Timothy 1:13 that this same admonition was given to Timothy as the Spirit directed Paul to write. Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. The written “guarantee” of God is the Word of God, delivered to man as promised by Jesus, beginning when the Comforter was sent to the apostles on the day of Pentecost, A.D. 33.
If we are Christians, and if we are faithful as directed in the Word, we have that “inspired guarantee” of the promise of eternal life. If not, we are promised an eternity of destruction in accordance to 2Thessalonians 1:9. Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; This too is an “inspired guarantee”. Which guarantee do you want?
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Attitude and the Bible
Attitude and the Bible
There is not one single occurrence of the word “attitude” in the King James version of the Bible. This does not mean that attitude is not taught in the Bible or is not important. One dictionary definition of attitude is: “a position assumed for a specific purpose”. This is fitting as we have to take a position when it comes to the Word of God. Jesus made this abundantly clear in Matthew 12:30 following the time when some accused Him of casting out devils by the power of Beelzebub. He said: He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad. When Jesus said this He knew that not all would have the same attitude toward Him or His Word.
In John 12:46 Jesus stated that He came as a light into the world so that the world could make the choice as to which “position” or “attitude” they would have toward Him and His Word while in this life. Then in John 12:47 He stated His “purpose” for coming to earth and in vs 48 why having the right attitude toward His Word is so important. I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness. 47 And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. 48 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. Knowing that Jesus came to be light to man so that man could be saved may help us to understand the “position” Christ took for our benefit as Philippians 2:7-8 tells us. But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Christ had the right attitude as He came to do the Will of His Father in heaven. He also set the example for us and we are instructed in Philippians 2:5 to have this same attitude or “mind”. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
This admonition is important because not all have the proper attitude toward the Lord and the purpose for which He died. One excellent example of this is presented to us in Acts 26:9-11 in the life of Saul before his conversion. I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them.
11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.
But one that has an “honest” heart, upon hearing the truth, will be obedient to it and their life will change. Then their attitude toward the Bible should change and be as God would have it. In 2Timothy 3:10 we see the change that was made in Saul (Paul) after he was taught the truth and was obedient to it. His attitude regarding Jesus changed and he then became a diligent supporter and preacher of truth. But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,. This too was an example for all to follow that knew Paul.
God would have all to have the same attitude toward truth. The Spirit has given a number of scriptures that show that all should follow God and Christ. Ephesians 5:1 reminds those brethren they were also “dear children” so they were to follow God. Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; This means they were to have the right attitude. One cannot follow God and have a wrong attitude toward truth. In 1Thessalonians 1:6, the Thessalonian brethren became followers because they “received the word” even though it may not have been in the best of circumstances. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: There is also the inspired direction to the Corinthian Christians in the first letter the Spirit gave to Paul to write. In 1Corinthians 11:1 we see that they were also given an example in Paul the apostle. Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. That means that all should have the same attitude toward the Bible. The Bible is God’s Word.
In Jesus prayer to the Father in John 17:17 He prayed that the apostles be “sanctified” (set apart) by the Word. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. Even the apostles and all disciples or (followers) of Christ could not be sanctified through the truth if they did not maintain the proper attitude toward His Word, the Bible. If a right attitude, and obedience toward the Word is maintained, we shall all be blessed, now and when Christ returns.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Stewardship
Stewardship
Often, when the topic of stewardship comes up, folks tend to focus upon how well they handle the money with which they have been entrusted. The word “steward” is found only in two books of the New Testament portion of the Bible. Luke contains the word or title “steward” five times and in each of these as Jesus was speaking, He spoke regarding the handling of the material blessings with which God has richly blessed. Jesus used the idea of stewardship to help those He taught (Israel) see that everything God has provided should always be used as God intended that it be used.
When Jesus was here and taught these lessons, He did so that Israel might learn to properly use all with which God had blessed them. They were so taught that they might also be beneficiaries in the “Christian” age which would soon be ushered in following Christ’s death, burial, resurrection and His ascension to the Father. It is true that monies, and all other physical blessings given us of God are to be used properly, but God has “delivered” spiritual things to man as well.
The only other New Testament occurrence of “steward” is found in Titus 1:7 and conveys a deeper meaning than just properly looking out for the physical things of this life. In this passage we see part of the qualifications of an “elder” (bishop) in the church addressed. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; Notice here that an elder, serving God in that capacity, with other elders within a congregation of the Lord’s church, have a very serious obligation and responsibility toward the souls they “oversee”. They are to truly be “stewards of God” regarding God’s people - Christians.
In Hebrews 13:17 we find the Spirit having the penman instruct the Hebrew Christians to submit to those “elders” that watch for their souls. Those elders in the congregations of the Hebrew Christians had the solemn responsibility of “stewardship” over those whom God made them overseers. Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. This idea of being overseers and the stewardship of this office is also conveyed in Acts 20:28 where the Spirit had Paul address the Ephesians elders. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. Indeed, all elders, in every congregation are to be stewards.
But, lest we shirk our own responsibilities, we need to be reminded that all of God’s people are also “charged” to be good stewards. This includes all the material substance with which we are entrusted, but it also includes being good stewards of the Word of God. In 2Timothy 2:15 we read of an admonition given to Timothy, but is also applicable to all Christians. Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Study is required by all, but if we are to be “good stewards” we must also “rightly divide” or handle the Word rightly.
In the Philippian letter, the Spirit had Paul speak of the defense of the gospel. This is part of handling it aright. In Philippians 1:7 Paul was “set for the defense” of it. I don’t think any could honestly say that Paul was not a good steward of God. Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.
Part of “defending” the gospel is to “stand up” against all who are against the gospel of God, which is His Word. Jude, through inspiration, was directed to exhort us (all Christians) to “earnestly contend for the faith”. (Jude vs 3) Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. To do so is being a good steward of the Word of God, which in itself is a blessing and a treasure. He was also to tell us why this is necessary. It is because some are not good stewards of God’s Word and even deny the Son of God. (vs 4) For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.
Let’s strive to be good stewards of all God has entrusted to us. The material blessings only last through this life, but the Word endures forever. Take care of both while living here. Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Self Examination
Self Examination
Much is being said these days regarding self-examination, but most of it is of a medical nature. Warnings abound this time of year about the adverse effects of the Sun in receiving too much exposure. In addition to this we all participate in a bit of self-examination from a health standpoint (if we are wise) as we inspect our gums, teeth, etc. in our efforts to maintain good dental hygiene. Other areas of our health are equally important and there are benefits of self-examination to find any lumps, bumps, or previously unseen oddities and such that could be indicators of areas of concern or disease that may have appeared.
Now, we all (whether we like to admit it or not) take an appraising look in the mirror occasionally to determine how our clothes look, or if we think we have added a pound or two, and how this affects our appearance. Many a person has set aside, or even discarded a garment for the time being based on how they made him, or her look. I too have done this.
But how many of us follow the Bible directive found in 2Corinthians 13:15 and really take a hard look at ourselves in regard to how well we follow the Word of God? Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? Surely we are familiar with 1Corinthians 11:28 where we are told that self-examination is indeed part of our partaking of the Lord’s Supper. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. According to vs 27, failure to perform a proper, and honest self-examination before we partake and eat the bread and drink the cup unworthily renders us guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. None should desire this.
We cannot “look” inside ourselves with a device as we do this. Physically, the Doctor can view “inside” us with a myriad of scopes, devices and tools and even take pictures and images to see if some-thing is amiss, but this is not what the Spirit was alluding to when He had Paul write to the Corinthian brethren. A self-examination of our mind is what The Spirit had Paul say is required. We can only accomplish a successful internal self-examination if we are honest.
The Bible speaks of the mind as the “heart” of man. This is because what the body does is controlled by the mind of the man that possesses that body. In the Old Testament, the first part of Proverbs 23:7 tells us this. For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: We can also clearly see this from Matthew after Jesus healed the man on a bed, sick of the palsy, having uttered the Words in Matthew 9:2: Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee. Following this in vs 3 the “scribes said within themselves” that Jesus had blasphemed in saying this. As we read vs 4 we find Jesus reply and what Jesus also knew. And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? It is the mind with which one thinks, and not the “heart” or blood pump. Leave the examination of the physical heart (pump) to the physician.
Then the question becomes: “How may I do a self-examination of my mind, the spiritual heart?” To do this one must look “introspectively” or inside to examine themselves and compare what is inside with what is found in the Word of God. We should also want to look good in the “inner man” and should make frequent and honest self-examinations to ensure that we remain ”in the faith.” We then need to make the needed adjustments according to the Word. Hebews 4:12 points out for us that the Word of God is the “instrument” by which this self-examination is to occur.. For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. This is most important as the Word will also be that by which we are to be judged.
Perhaps another way of looking at “examining ourselves” is to “take heed” unto ourselves. In 1Timothy 4:16 this is what Timothy was told by Paul, and is equally applicable to us today. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. Then there is Hebrews 3:12 which tells us what a lack of “spiritual self-examination brings. Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. We cannot afford to NOT do these spiritual self-examinations, do them honestly, and make the needed changes.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
God Friended Me - REALLY?
God Friended Me – REALLY?
I was sitting in my living room the other evening and a commercial came on about an upcoming Fall 2018 CBS sitcom named “God Friended Me”. My first thought was, and how I still feel, is that such is ridiculous. I decided to look into this upcoming series to see what its premise is. (I will not be watching)
What I found was about what I expected. From Wikipedia, I found the following. It was ordered to series on May 11,2018. (And so is now in production.) It is described as a humorous, uplifting series, that explores questions of faith, existence and science. It centers on an outspoken atheist “Miles”, whose life is turned upside down when he is friended by God on Facebook. Unwittingly, he becomes an agent of change in the lives and destinies of others around him. Another character “Cara” is a leading writer for a leading online magazine who is under pressure for her next big story. Her life takes an interesting turn when she meets the main character “Miles” – get this- thanks to God’s friend suggestion.
I have seen and heard blasphemy presented in many different ways, but this is a new package entirely. This irreverence for God is a work of the devil. He started his work in the Garden of Eden and all these years later man is still falling for it and indeed – embracing it. To speak of, or speak to God as if He were “one of us” is indeed blasphemy. God is not the “man upstairs” nor is He the “big guy” or any other such nonsense. From Psalm 111:9 we read that even the name of God is set apart. . . . “holy and reverend is his name.” Even those who aspire to wear the name or title of “reverend” are participating in this same type of irreverence. Those who do so are not showing wisdom at all. Wisdom is not doing what we want or being called as we wish to be called. If we continue reading in Psalm 111:10 one can readily see that there is to be a fear of God and also where wisdom begins. Fear in this sense means utmost respect, awe and reverence. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever. Those who do participate in such irreverence and blasphemy are much like those depicted in Romans 1:28 where we also see that God will allow them to make whatever decision they want and persist in whatever activity they so desire. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
Israel, having just seen the power and glory of God in His great deliverance of them from the Egyptians, sang a song in Exodus 15. In verse 11 we find a proclamation that many have forgotten. Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders? Exodus 15:11 From this, one would think that the people of God would remain faithful and always serve God as He commanded. But, we can see from Isaiah 55:6-9 that irreverence and disobedience also affected Israel. God sent Isaiah to call Israel back to God and reminded them that He is not like we are. Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. 8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
No, God does not have a Facebook account! He does not “Tweet”! He is not a “social media” God! He does not speak directly to us, nor communicate to us in any way except through His Word. It has been this way since the miraculous ended with the completion of God’s Revelation to man. He will not contact us by telephone, e-mail, fax or through any of the modern means of communication that have likely consumed way too much of our time.
God indeed “friended” all of humanity when He sent His Son to provide the means for salvation. We are told what God’s power unto salvation is in Romans 1:16. It is 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. Perhaps we would do well to simply follow the advice of 1Timothy 4:16 where the Spirit had Paul direct Timothy. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. This is also why the Spirit had Paul instruct Timothy thusly in 2Timothy 4:2. Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
While some may think this upcoming show to be cute and some may even be so bold as to say that it will introduce people to God or cause them to think about God, let’s not get caught up in that which relegates God to the position of a mere man.
Let us know God as He is presented in His Word and seek to serve Him in accordance to His Word lest we be found to have missed the mark for which all Christians should strive. Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Is Zeal Something You Still Have?
Is Zeal Something You Still Have?
Upon reading Titus 2:14 one can see that the reasons Christ gave Himself for us are given, and included is zeal. Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. All seem to want the redemption and the promise of eternal life, but many seem to lose the zeal they had when they were first baptized into Christ.
If you are a child of God, think back to when you became a Christian. Do you remember the “fervor” you had – the fire that burned within you to speak with others about God’s Love for us and His plan for saving a soul? Is that zeal still with you? Do you still have that same enthusiasm you once had? If not, what happened to it? Where did it go?
Zeal defined: Eagerness and ardent interest in pursuit of something; Fervor. Synonyms for Zeal are: Enthusiasm, Passion, Ardor, Eagerness or Vehemence.
While it is important to have and maintain zeal, it is equally important to make sure that one’s zeal is properly directed. In Philippians 3:6 the Spirit directed the apostle Paul write concerning the zeal Paul had when he thought he was serving God under the Law of Moses. Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. One can easily see that Saul’s zeal was misdirected at that point. However, when it was properly directed in service to God, his zeal served to guide numerous folks to Christ. We know this as Acts 9:15 reveals what the Lord said to Ananias in regard to Saul. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:
Proper zeal, or zeal that is properly directed must also be in accordance to knowledge. In accordance to Romans 10:1 we are told that Paul’s desire for Israel was that “they might be saved”. He also affirmed that they had zeal in verse two, but since it was “not according to knowledge” we are told what they failed to do in verse three. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.
Now, since we have established from God’s Word that zeal is only effective if rightly directed and in accordance to teaching from God’s Word, could it be possible that if your zeal has waned that the absence of God’s Word in your life is the cause? In James 4:7 we are reminded that we are to submit ourselves to God and what will result. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. We then must determine what it takes to submit to God. How can that be done unless one does so in accordance to His Word? 2Timothy 3:16-17 tells us that all scripture comes from God and why it was given to humanity. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
Then as we read 2Timothy 2:15 we are told how that “Word of truth” will cause us to be “throughly furnished”. Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Even with all the problems the Corinthian church had, the Spirit had Paul commend them for their zeal. From 2Corinthains 9:1-2 we are told of the love of the Corinthians for those of other congregations and that their zeal provoked many. For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you: 2 For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.
Is this saying that zeal is contagious? These verses certainly indicate that one’s zeal can be a source of encouragement for others. But one thing I have noticed is that a lack of zeal does seem to contagious. It is like a virus that has afflicted the church of the Lord in many locations. If the loss of zeal can affect an individual it can certainly affect congregations. Need we be reminded of the affect a lack of zeal had on the church in Laodicea in Revelation 3:15 and what the Lord would do to them as we read in verse 16? I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. 16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Could this be you?
If we have lost our zeal for God or if it has been diminished for any reason we need to rekindle it with knowledge of God’s Word. Your soul depends upon it
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Spiritual Adultery
Spiritual Adultery
It is alarming that some Christians don’t seem to understand what spiritual adultery is or how one might be involved in it. Some of these are the same people that wouldn’t think of “cheating” on a spouse as this is considered an egregious (flagrant) sin. A good definition for Adultery is: voluntary sexual relations with a married person other than one’s spouse.
There are a number of synonyms for adultery with which we are all familiar. Some of these are: Infidelity, Disloyalty, Betrayal and Faithlessness. Of course when these words are used in regard to a marital relationship, most folks think of physical marriage. Little do some realize that such a thing as “spiritual adultery” does exist, and there may very well be Christians involved in spiritual adultery, while not actually aware that they are.
We know what Jesus said in Matthew 19:9 regarding adultery. He is speaking of physical marriage in this passage. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery. This is the understanding that most Christians have regarding this passage. In Deuteronomy 22:22 the Old Testament covenant God had with Israel, the penalty for adultery was death. The keeping of the Law of God in this case, was to put the evil away from Israel. If a man be found lying with a woman married to an husband, then they shall both of them die, both the man that lay with the woman, and the woman: so shalt thou put away evil from Israel. God has never condoned the breaking of vows. The vows a man and woman make in marriage are important. Should we think the vow we made with God is of any less importance?
In Jeremiah 3:14 we find that Israel was married to God. Turn, O backsliding children, saith the LORD; for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion: Then we find in Malachi 2:11 that after the kingdom of Israel was divided, Judah committed spiritual adultery. Judah hath dealt treacherously, and an abomination is committed in Israel and in Jerusalem; for Judah hath profaned the holiness of the LORD which he loved, and hath married the daughter of a strange god. They were not walking honestly before God. They were unfaithful.
In the New Testament, we find in Romans 7:2 the Law of God relative to marriage. When one spouse dies, the other is free to be married to another. For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. Then we see in Romans 7:4 we see to whom Christians are spiritually wed and that the Law (Old Testament) no longer bound the Jews to God. Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. And we might also consider the language of 2Corinthians 11:2 in which the Spirit had Paul explain the relationship all Christians are to have with Christ. For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, (Christ) that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.
Therefore, if we as Christians, attend services in religious organizations that are not the body of Christ, or participate with them in functions they authorize we are indeed committing spiritual adultery. By participating with them, we are also bidding them God speed. 2John 1:9-11 tells us that if we receive one that comes unto us and they “abide not in the doctrine of Christ” we are bidding them God speed. The same is true if we go to those who abide not in the doctrine of Christ. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: 11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. Those of these other religious organizations are not married to Christ, and if we bid them God speed, or participate with them, we become partakers of their evil deeds.
This is also why in 2Corinthians 6:17 the Spirit had Paul tell the Corinthian brethren it was wrong to participate in the deeds of the world, those that falsely serve God, and those that serve false gods and what to do about it. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
As faithful Christians, let’s honor the vow we made with God, and remain truly faithful as part of the bride of Christ.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
How Converted Are You?
How Converted Are You?
You must be thinking “What kind of question is that?” The question comes as a result of observations of some who “professed” to be Christians over the years.
The very definition of “converted” indicates a change has occurred, but one that is a “Christian” and continues in their previous manner of life is not converted at all. This indicates that the change the gospel should have made in them has not yet happened. We might look to the life of the apostle Paul for an inspired example of conversion and how a life is properly changed by the gospel. In the Acts 26:4-6 account of Paul’s defense before Agrippa, we see his explanation of his training as
a Jew from his youth and how that not only caused him to act as he did prior to his conversion, but also gives us the reason why he was being judged by the Jews on that occasion. My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews; 5 Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee. 6 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:
Then we see in 2Timothy 3:10-11 the Spirit had Paul remind Timothy that he had observed Paul’s manner of life and that Paul’s manner of life and his persecution was because he had truly been converted. But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, 11 Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. The persecutions Paul suffered was because He had been converted – changed – changed by the gospel. That change was apparent to all with whom he would come in contact, whether brethren or enemies of the cross of Christ.
We are also told in 2Timothy 3:12 that if we have been converted we too can fully expect persecution, albeit not necessarily the same type Paul had to endure. Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. To be godly in this world means that one has been converted and is different than the world and therefore will be persecuted by the world in one way or another. We should also understand that conversion is not a concept that is exclusive to the New Testament. As we look to Psalms 51, we can see in vss 10-13 that one who is converted will then teach others God’s Ways, and will do their best to reach others with God’s Word so they too can be converted. Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. 11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. 12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. 13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
In Matthew 13:10 while Jesus was on the earth, His apostles asked why He spoke to the people in parables. Verse 11 is His answer. He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. Then in Matthew 13:15 He explained why. For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them. Why would they not be converted? It was because they would not receive the Words of Jesus.
We should be aware that many were converted in A.D. 33 on Pentecost in Jerusalem, but who were they? Acts 2:41 identifies them for us as those that gladly received the Word. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. Only those who gladly receive the Word can be converted and only those that want to remain converted will do so if they continue to stay in the Word.
It is also important to understand that one cannot be “partially” converted. The apostle Paul, in Acts 26:24-29 in his defense before Festus and king Agrippa desired that Agrippa and all others there were “altogether as he was except his bonds. And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad. 25 But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. 26 For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest. 28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian. 29 And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds. This means that Paul desired that they were “altogether” converted. How converted are you? If not all the way converted, it is not enough. Be converted according to God’s Word before it is everlastingly too late.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
Mothers In The Church
Mothers In The Church
Today is the day set aside by our nation to remember and commemorate our mothers. There is much that is misunderstood about this “holiday” among those who observe it. It is not a day set aside by God.
Mother’s Day is a celebration honoring the mother of the family, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in our society. This is understandable as it has long been said” The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.” But this does not mean that the mother rules the world; but it means that the mother has a great deal of influence over the ones being rocked.
mThe idea of “Mother’s Day” is not specific to America alone as it is observed in many parts of the world. Like most “holidays” the idea of it may have come about due to pagan celebrations or denominational practices. The Greeks had a cult that honored Cybele; the Romans had a festival of Hilaria; and the church of England and the Catholics had “Mothering Sunday” which commemorated the “mother church” rather than motherhood.
The modern “holiday” of Mother’s Day was first celebrated in the U.S. in 1908 when Anna Jarvis held a celebration for her mother in St. Andrews Methodist church in Grafton West Virginia. She began lobbying to make Mother’s Day an official “holiday” in 1905, shortly after the death of her mother, who had cared for wounded from both sides during the American Civil War.
It was also in 1908 that the U.S. Congress rejected a proposal to make Mother’s Day an official holiday, joking they would also have to proclaim a “Mother-In-Law’s Day”. But, in 1914 Woodrow Wilson signed a declaration that the second Sunday in May as a national holiday to honor mothers. That day has been the observance from that time until the present. (info from Wikipedia)
Now that we have established the fact that “Mother’s Day” is not a celebration of the church, nor authorized by God, let us point out some of the things God has said about mothers in His Word.
We know from Genesis 3:20 that Eve was the “mother of all living” as all who came to be after the creation of Adam and Eve were born, and all who give birth are called mothers. Then as we move to the New Testament, after the establishment of the church, we have a fine example of the type of mother that is to be in the church and one that is to be truly honored. That example is found in 2Timothy 2:1-5 where Timothy’s mother Eunice is commended for instilling in Timothy a love for the truth and a desire to faithfully follow God in accordance to God’s Word. When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also. These are the kinds of godly mothers that God would have in the church.
In Titus 2:4-5 we see that the aged women were to teach the young women to conduct themselves in such a way to deserve the honor of their children and their husbands. That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. You may say: “What mother does not love her children?” No doubt most mothers love their children, but what better way is there to show that love than teaching them the way of truth so that their soul need not spend eternity in Hell? The “hand that rocks the cradle” has the most influence on the child in its most formative years, but it is not the mother alone that is to bring up the child properly in accordance to God’s Word.
The passage above in Titus 2:4-5 goes hand in hand with Ephesians 6:4, which while speaking directly to the fathers, has the mother in mind as well as the young women are to be “keepers at home” and let the fathers provide for the family. A godly mother (and fathers too) are to guide the child in God’s Word as the father provides for the family. (I know this may be a bit unpopular – but I didn’t write it, God did.) And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
The virtuous woman of Proverbs 31:10 whose price is far above rubies is explained in the verses that come afterward. From Proverbs 31:26-28 we can read of her virtue relative to being the mother God would have her be. She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. 27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. 28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. It is not wrong to remember our mothers. Let’s honor every Christian mother on every day. But, on the Lord’s Day, let us focus on honoring and serving the God of heaven as He would have it.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
When We Know Not
When We Know Not
The phrase “I know that I know nothing” is called the Socratic Paradox and is a well-known saying, but there is no record of Socrates ever speaking these words. The saying is derived from Plato’s account of the Greek philosopher Socrates. I’m not sure what this saying even means, because if you know that you know nothing – well, then you do know something.
When we don’t know, we tend to stumble along and often fail or fall. Israel was a prime example of this. This nation was known as the people of God. This is because God chose the nation of Israel to carry out His plan to bring salvation to humanity. God set things up and as His plan was being carried out Israel was to know and to follow that plan. However, we find in Jeremiah 8:5-9 that even though Israel had been informed, and had been given God’s Word, they still knew not. Why then is this people of Jerusalem slidden back by a perpetual backsliding? they hold fast deceit, they refuse to return. 6 I hearkened and heard, but they spake not aright: no man repented him of his wickedness, saying, What have I done? every one turned to his course, as the horse rusheth into the battle. 7 Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the swallow observe the time of their coming; but my people know not the judgment of the LORD. 8 How do ye say, We are wise, and the law of the LORD is with us? Lo, certainly in vain made he it; the pen of the scribes is in vain. 9 The wise men are ashamed, they are dismayed and taken: lo, they have rejected the word of the LORD; and what wisdom is in them?
This passage also shows that God’s creation, with the exception of man follows the plans set up by God. Why is it that man does not know? It was not because they were not told. In Hosea 4:6 the Spirit directed Hosea to write why God’s people were destroyed and what their own actions would bring upon them. My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.
So that we do not misunderstand – Let us be clear. God is not a respecter of persons per both the Old and New Testaments. From the O.T. we see this in the book of 2Chronicles 19:7 (to the Jewish nation only). Wherefore now let the fear of the LORD be upon you; take heed and do it: for there is no iniquity with the LORD our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts. And, from the N.T. we find this in Romans 2:11 as well as other passages. For there is no respect of persons with God. Therefore, He has given His Word to all men, if they will receive and accept it.
God’s forgetting the children of the nation of Israel would be brought on by the parents. For, if parents reject the knowledge of God and do not pass it on to their children, the children will not know God, nor follow Him. This is clearly what the Spirit had Paul write to the Roman brethren in Romans 1:28. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Even a casual reading of the verses that follow verse 28 shows the despicable activity in which many who refuse to retain God in their knowledge participate.
This is why God saw to it that the gospel was preached everywhere. There is no excuse for man not knowing God’s Will for man. The Spirit had Paul inform the Colossians brethren of this in Colossians 1:23 as well as pointing out the importance of holding fast to the truth. If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;
We also must also understand that choice is part of this equation. Everyone that is of the age of accountability must make their own choice. But, let us also acknowledge that each will be judged according to what they choose in this life. 2Corinthians 5:10 makes this abundantly clear. 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. Can we afford to not know? The grace of God has been extended to us in that we have this present time to know and to choose well. Make the best of the time you have. Read and know God’s Word, and do it.
Dennis Strickland – Mooresville church of Christ
