We are not interested in a church that is like the church Jesus built any more than we are interested in a Savior like the Son of God. He either is or He isn’t; it either is or it isn’t. A cow is like a horse in that it has four legs and a tail, but a cow is not a horse. A monkey is like a man in that it is a mammal that walks on two legs, but a man is no monkey. The worship of Cain and Abel was similar (both worshipped the same God, at the same time, in response to blessings), but Cain’s was rejected and Abel’s was accepted (Genesis 4:4-5; Hebrews 11:4). Tares and wheat were close in appearance, but one was edible and desirable, and the other was poisonous and hated (Matthew 13:24-30). We are interested in finding the same church Jesus promised Peter He would build (Matthew 16:18). On that occasion Peter did not say that Jesus was “like” the Son of God. He called Him “the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). Since it is not possible for any church to prove historically that it has existed from the time of the New Testament, is it even possible that the New Testament church still exists today? Yes, because it is not necessary to trace a line of succession back two thousand years. That possibility is easily proved by considering three simple principles. Come, “let us reason together” (Isaiah 1:18). Consider …

Since the legalization of abortion in the United States, over 49 million of them have taken place. What was originally promoted as a procedure that would only be used in emergency situations has become a commonplace occurrence. Certainly, the destruction of life in the womb has become a consequence of this practice. We know the child in the womb is a life, is a human being. Modern imaging equipment has helped us to understand this better, along with other advances in technology. However, Scripture affirmed this basic principle centuries ago. “For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:13). So many lives have been terminated by abortion that we have become desensitized to the process of death. However, are there other ways beside the death of the unborn child that abortion defiles our land? Certainly so! When sin becomes commonplace, it only leads to further and greater sin. Paul reminds us it is lawlessness that leads to more lawlessness (Romans 6:19). What are some consequences that come when abortion is viewed as a normal part of life? One can argue that a cheapening of the view of life in the womb leads to a cheapening of life outside the womb. If one can indiscriminately terminate an inconvenient life before birth, why not afterwards? What is called the Groningen Protocol, a procedure used by the University Medical Center Groningen in Groningen, Netherlands, offers guidelines for child euthanasia. One of those criteria has to do with …

A Christian is to (1) Obey civil authorities. “Obey magistrates” (Titus 3:1). “Let every soul be subject to the higher powers” (Romans 13:1). “Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man” (1 Peter 2:13). (2) Obey civil government “for the Lord’s sake” (1 Peter 2:13). Because “the powers that be are ordained of God” (Romans 13:1), resisting such authorities is equal to resisting God’s ordained arrangement (13:2). “For so is the will of God” (1 Peter 2:15). (3) Obey every aspect of civil law. “Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake” (1 Peter 2:13). “Every ordinance” would include what the civil authorities might decree about building codes, littering highways, tax obligations, the size of passport photos, how far a church building must sit away from a street, and you name it. We may be tempted to label some laws as unreasonable or ridiculous, but the law is the law. If I have the right to disregard a law that I count as inconvenient or excessively costly, then why would another person not have the right to disregard a different law? What is it that ensues when people decide to use their own gut feelings to determine with which government ordinances they will comply, and which they will disregard? The word is “chaos” or “lawlessness.” (4) Obey civil authorities at all levels. Peter’s Spirit-guided instruction to submit to civil ordinances was, “whether it be to the king, as supreme; or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evil …

A problem the church faces in each generation is the way some view the Bible. Is it inspired? It claims such (2 Timothy 3:16). A key facet of the problem is the way some look at the concept of inspiration of the Scriptures. Some hold the view that biblical inspiration is like when William Shakespeare was “inspired” to write his works. Others believe the Bible to be inspired of God, but think that much of Scripture was “culture oriented” and must be viewed in light of today’s culture. Others claim to believe in the inspiration of Scripture but would allow for things not specifically excluded. In other words, they believe silence authorizes. However, probably most who read this would say the Bible is the Word of God. If we believe that, we must respect the inherent authority of the Bible. The Bible is the will of God. His will has to be the standard by which our lives are ordered. God is Creator. By virtue of this fact, He has always had authority over His creation. God has delegated all authority in heaven and on earth to Jesus (Matthew 28:18). Since all authority rests in Christ Jesus, all we do in our Christian lives must be done by his authority (Colossians 3:17). Near the end of His earthly ministry, Jesus promised the apostles that the Holy Spirit would “bring to your remembrance all that I said unto you” (John 14:26). He also told them the Holy Spirit would “guide you …

“By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8). We learn from Genesis 12:4 that Abram was 75-years-old when he went on a journey of faith. He went from Haran to the land of Canaan, from a land he knew to a land he did not know, from what was familiar to what was unfamiliar. God had asked him, “Leave your country, your people and your father’s house and go to the land I will show you” (Genesis 12:1). God asked, he went: that is faith. Abram’s faith was a faith ready to respond to the Lord’s will, despite the unknown. If faith can see every step of the way, it is not really faith. So, let us ask a question: “What does this new year hold for you?” Health or sickness? Financial stability or financial ruin? Marriage or becoming a widow or widower? Stronger marriage or the breakup of a marriage? A loved one obeying the Gospel or leaving the Lord? The best year ever at school or work or the worst ever? The fact is, you do not know exactly what the new year holds, but you do know who holds the future, don’t you? Perhaps we need to be more like Abram: He did not know where his future was going to be exactly, but he did know who held the future, and therefore, …

Resolutions are typical this time of year. Most of us will make a resolution, promising to make changes in our lives for the better. Therefore, commitment, dedication and determination are in full swing and great abundance. Losing weight, exercising more, better financial stability and enjoying life rank high on most lists. However, as February rolls around, fires cool and steam fizzles, but it should not, especially for Christians. Resolute and resilient Christians should blaze the trail in the land called “Promises Kept,” but in what areas? In what ways will this year be any different than the previous? Resolutions are only as good as the ability and dedication of the promise maker to reach their goal. Therefore, my work is clear and ordered! I must determine to be unwavering, grounded and unmovable in my commitment to reach spiritual goals. This year is for the Lord!

Did you ever say, “If I knew then what I know now…”? There was a rich man who certainly expressed this concept. His story is found in Luke 16:19-31. He is the one that is associated with the beggar Lazarus. There are several things that he realized too late for him to change. Let us notice them. He Learned… Some say, “It is never too late to learn.” It was for the rich man, and it may become so with you.

As we begin a new year, we see many ideas on how to make our lives better: exercise more, eat healthier, silent meditation, laugh more, maintain a positive attitude, etc. All of these ideas (and others not mentioned here) are probably really good ideas and may accomplish some good outcomes for our health, so don’t disallow them. In fact, you may see fit to put some of them to good use! However, in most cases where I have seen a “to do” list for better living, nothing is mentioned about religious and eternal matters. This is usually the result of what we call “political correctness.” Those presenting the material are afraid they might offend someone by mentioning religious matters because there are so many in the world who do take exception to anything spiritual, and so they do not want to hear it. However, let’s talk about some religious matters that can create a more productive life for us and make our day-to-day lives happier and more peaceful. Even those people who take offense at religion may find some good pointers here. There is so much contention and dissatisfaction around us. Tempers flared and patience was especially short during the holidays, and one did not have to listen very hard to hear some harsh words spoken. What a waste of our tongues! We read in 1 Peter 3:10-11, “He who will love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil and his lips that they speak …

Sometimes each of us needs to hear someone say, “It’s gonna be alright.” Whatever disaster, large or small, real or simply perceived, has struck us, we need to hear those words of comfort. From someone who is in panic mode because he may have lost his cellphone, to another who has just been told that she has cancer, each needs someone calm who can sincerely say, “It’s gonna be alright.” If we tell someone that, we need to believe it ourselves. If I ever tell someone that it’s gonna be alright, I truly believe that to be true. I may not be able to say how it is going to be OK, but I believe that if I say it. How can I say it if I do not know how things will be alright? As Christians, then, we should be able to say consistently and with conviction, “It’s gonna be alright!” It is God’s promise, not ours. “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort” (2 Corinthians 1:3).

As Paul concluded the letter to the Philippians, he exhorted them to “Rejoice in the Lord alway” (Philippians 4:4). In order to do that, an individual must first set his mind to have the proper outlook, allowing one to rejoice in any situation. Because of that, Paul gave these brethren a list of things they needed to think on (Philippians 4:8). The word translated “think” comes from a word that means “to reckon, weigh the reasons, deliberate” (Thayer). Therefore, Paul called upon the Philippians to reckon on and weigh the following things. Whatsoever Things Are True These are things that are proven to be true. They are not assumptions, suppositions or wishes; instead, they are facts based upon evidence. More problems and sins have entered the body of Christ because people have stopped contemplating truth and instead followed their own suppositions than from any other cause. If we are to continue to be able to rejoice in the Lord, we must continue to think on truth. Whatsoever Things Are Honest Literally, Paul was emphasizing the need to think on the things that are honorable. There are people who seem to spend all of their time focusing on people and actions that are disreputable instead of those things that are honorable. We should not be concerned with all the celebrity gossip and worrying about all the bad things that others are doing, but instead we should focus on those things that are right and honorable in the sight of God. Whatsoever Things Are …

“The law of Jehovah is perfect, restoring the soul: The testimony of Jehovah is sure, making wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7). There are approximately 613 different laws that make up what we commonly call the Law of Moses. Few if any, save a few devout orthodox Jews, have them memorized or could even list a fraction of them. Most would struggle to get through the Ten Commandments, which are really kind of a prelude or introduction to the Law. Have you ever wondered why God gave the Jews so many laws? I guess there are a number of answers one could give. Some might say, for instance, that the ancient Jewish people lived under what you might call a Limited Theocracy, where God is not only the spiritual leader, but the civil governing body as well. Thus, He gave them not only a spiritual law, but a civil law, too. Yet, I think another very strong argument that we could make, and perhaps one that is a little more practical and perhaps not fraught with some difficulties, is the simple fact that God went out of His way to give us abundant evidence for the need of a Savior. Consider those 613 laws in light of what Paul wrote in Galatians 3:24-25. “So that the law is become our tutor to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But now faith that is come, we are no longer under a tutor.” The Law of Moses pointed …

While knocking on doors to try to set up Bible studies, I met a Unitarian with whom I had an interesting conversation. He said something like this: “I really appreciate Jesus, for he had so many human qualities. I feel that I can really relate to him when he got mad and cussed out the fig tree.” He was referring to the story in Mark 11 where it says in verse 21, “And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Rabbi, behold the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away.” I suppose the word “cuss” comes from a Southern pronunciation of “curse,” just as we hear “work” pronounced “woik.” In some sections of the country, “park” is pronounced “paak,” and apparently, the Harvard pronunciation of “Cuba” is “Cuber.” At any rate, I asked him what he thought Jesus said to the fig tree, and he responded that he did not know. I pointed out to him that the curse Jesus placed on the tree is found in Mark 11:14, “No man eat fruit from thee henceforward forever.” We need to understand that in the Bible the words “cursing” and “swearing” do not always have the same meaning that we normally apply to them. Most of my life I have assumed that when Peter began to curse and swear and say, “I know not the man” (Mark 14:71), he was using God’s name in vain and all sorts of vile and ungodly language. It is not necessarily so, although we …

A few years ago, a book was published titled, What to Say When You Don’t Know What to Say. This is a natural fear for some folks – to be in a situation where one cannot find the right word to fit the occasion. Recently, a lady resident at the local nursing facility replied, “I don’t know what to say to that.” This was undoubtedly quite an unusual circumstance for this personable lady. Some people seem never to be at a loss for words. They talk. Talk. Talk. If there is nothing else better to do, they will talk some more. Some people talk and never really say anything. Many politicians are clever at this. Some folks have a reputation for cluttering the airwaves and wearing people out by their much speaking. However, a good conversationalist can find the right words, but knows how to listen, too. Being followers of Jesus, we are to select our words carefully. Our words are powerful. They can cheer the heart and bring a glowing smile. Alternatively, they can make the tears stream down one’s cheeks as a river out of its banks. Our words can hearten and encourage; our words can wound and undermine the spirit’s vigor. Jesus chose His words wisely. He never “flew off the handle,” nor did he go into a tirade with His opponents. He never sinned through His wording. God’s infallible, living Word instructs us in the employment of our tongues: ‘There is a time to speak, and there …

No one who has ever read, even casually, the history of “Christianity” down through the ages would be so bold as to attempt to justify everything that has been done in its name. Through apostasy, ignorance and plain old politics, many things have been done in the name of Christ that not only have nothing to do with Him, but have been absolutely contrary to His will and teachings. Should Christians be ashamed of our history? Yes and no! Since not all religious bodies claiming to be Christian have engaged in such activities as “witch hunting,” “crusades,” persecution of Jews and other nationalities, these have nothing for which to apologize; however, those who have engaged in such activities should not only apologize, but deeply repent and in as much as is humanly possible do what they can to right their wrongs. Yet, it is difficult for those living a thousand years after the fact to repent of the sins of their ancestors, or make them right, for they are not the sins of this generation. Therefore, handling these things must be left up to the justice of God. However, such atheists as Richard Dawkins and his cohorts Harris and Hitchens have pronounced Christianity as being a curse to the world. They have not pronounced this sentence on Christianity alone, but on all religion in general, including the idolatry of India and other nations. No thinking person would attempt to excuse the evils of idolatry either modern or ancient, for God …

I would venture to say, if you work a lifetime, you have run into some bossy tyrants. Most of my working life was spent in the military service. I have worked for some harsh officers and enlisted men. Such people rarely get the most out of those working for them. Sadly, some leaders cannot see beyond their own self-serving. Thankfully, and for the most part, I have worked for decent, understanding people. I am reminded of the “Unmerciful Servant” who received mercy but was harsh to a fellow servant. “…O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow servant, even as I had pity on thee?” (Matthew 18:32-33). It is shameful that some in leadership positions cannot act civilly. Honesty, integrity and fairness are needed to carry out one’s responsibility. Those who have these positive character traits of one who serves to the greater degree make the finest leaders/employers. People want to do their utmost when they associate with leadership who displays the mindset of a servant. “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted” (Matthew 23:11-12). “Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the …

As I worked from my home office, something outside caught the corner of my eye. I grabbed my glasses to get a better look and saw a beautiful red fox crossing my front yard. As I watched it travel, I noticed that there was something terribly wrong. I could see that its right front leg had been very badly hurt. So much so, that the bottom half was just dangling, and I noticed a long white bone protruding from the top part of its leg. I do not know what caused this terrible loss, but I do know that it affected the fox’s mobility. As I continued to keep an eye on the fox as it found rest in my back yard, it would drink from the brook and just wade in the cool water for a while, and then lie down on the grassy bank, licking his wounds for a while. Then, it took a nap. About an hour later, it had continued on its journey, limping as it traveled, leg still hanging and no doubt in great pain. The title of this article speaks of the strength and confidence one will have when he walks or lives as God directs. The whole idea of a foot “being taken” is the very real probability of being led astray or off course from the safety of God’s way to the dangers of the devil’s way (the way of the world). Just a few verses prior to our title verse, the …

This not the usual question one asks relative to such an important matter. Often the question is raised, “Who should be baptized?” However we can, by dealing with the question, “Who Should Not Be Baptized?” give answer as to who should be baptized. First of all, infants should not be baptized. Children, while being born in a world of sin and being subject to sin are not born sinners. There is a difference. Sin is not something one inherits, but rather it is something one does: “For sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). While a child inherits the consequence of Adam’s sin, he is not born totally depraved per the teaching of John Calvin. The prophet Ezekiel explained it this way: “The soul that sinneth, it shall die: the son shall not bear the iniquity of the father…” (Ezekiel 18:20). Second, young children who are not mature enough mentally to grasp the teaching relative to Jesus, His coming, His purpose for dying, His Sonship and an awareness of right and wrong in their lives should not be baptized. The age of ‘accountability’ varies with individual children. There must be the acceptance of God’s grace in this matter. God does not impute sin to those children who are in the years of innocence. This is the time for parents to teach and train their sons and daughters in the way of the Lord (Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4; 2 Timothy 3:14-15). Brethren should be careful about moving children …

Many become confused when they read the Bible because they may open it to any book, chapter and verse, and they think that the Lord is personally speaking to them. In doing this, they may conclude that God would want them to build an ark, offer animal sacrifices or go to Jerusalem once a year to worship. Others are convinced that they are to worship on the Sabbath Day, give tithes of their income and keep the “Ten Commandments.” Of course, their problem is that they are not rightly dividing the Word. The apostle Paul said, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). If one is to know God’s will, it is a must to study His Word, but one may study the Bible and still be confused and not know what to do. As Paul said, the key is to rightly divide the Word. What does he mean?  We must realize that the Bible was written over a period of about fifteen hundred years! Surely, not all of it was written and directed to you and me — and it was not. So, let us look into this matter of ‘rightly dividing.’ To begin with, the word “Bible” means “the Book” or “the book of books.” The Bible actually consists of 66 separate books, grouped into two major divisions, the Old Testament and the New Testament. There are 39 books in the …

Consider the following four passages from the New Testament. The Preparations of the Savior (John 14:1-6). He left this earth to “prepare a place” for His disciples. Jesus contrasted the common, single room house of the time with a house containing many abiding places. He would do all this (go, come again and receive) so that we could dwell or remain with Him forever, that where our Savior is we may be also. The Reservations for the Faithful (1 Peter 1:3-5). God has made reservations for you! Where? In the beautiful place called heaven (cf. Colossians 1:5). This reservation is eternal life with God in the home He has prepared for the church of God. It is going to last; it simply does not fade away. A City Prepared by God Himself (Hebrews 11:13-16). These men of faith confessed that this was not their final place of abode. “They were strangers and pilgrims” (v. 13). People who speak and live that way proclaim clearly that they are longing for and looking for a homeland (v. 14). “They desire a better, that is, a heavenly. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them” (v. 16). “God Himself will be with them” (Revelation 21:3-4, 7). In heaven, we will dwell eternally with the God of heaven. Think about it. We will be in His awesome and holy presence (v. 3). God will be there to wipe away every tear from every eye. Because of this, there will be no …