Given mankind’s frail humanity, there are times when he fails to treat others equally. God in His infinite wisdom knew such could be the case, so God warned Christians to not be respecters of certain persons while mistreating others (cf. James 2). There is no greater example of equal treatment than that of God Himself (cf. Matthew 5:45). Peter, preaching to the household of Cornelius, learned this truth as well, “Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that fears him, and works righteousness, is accepted with him” (Acts 10:34-35). Fine houses, lands, money and clothes may win the respect of man and cause the one who has these things to be esteemed, but not so with God. The Lord is impartial, and He shows His impartiality in many ways. First, all are invited to come. The words of the Master prove this impartiality, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, emphasis added). Contrary to the false doctrine of Calvinism, which says that God only chooses certain “elect” individuals to come to Him, God invites all! At the close of New Testament cannon, this truth is explicitly stated again, “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that hears say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely” (Revelation 22:17). God is

After reassuring His disciples that He would return to take them home to be with Him for eternity, Jesus was asked by Thomas how can we know the way to that place (cf. John 14:5). Jesus comfortingly declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). What an affirmation! “He did not say that He knew the way, the truth, and the life, nor that He taught them. He did not make Himself the exponent of a new system; He declared Himself to be the final key to all mysteries” (Tenney 215). “The Bible says there’s just ‘one way’ to God. But today, postmodernists claim that ‘no one way is the right way,’ and any way is okay. To them there is no absolute truth” (MacArthur, back cover). However, Jesus’ statement settles that argument once and for all! Jesus is THE way! Just think of some of the areas wherein this exclusive Way leads. First, Jesus is the way to Pardon. The Lord’s very purpose for coming to earth was to pardon mankind (through obedience to the Gospel) from sin (cf. Matthew 1:21). If there had been another way to pardon mankind from sin, surely God would have enacted that way! Sin had separated man from God (Isaiah 59:1-2), and it was impossible to be forgiven by any other means (cf. Hebrews 10:4-10). The apostle’s statement harmonizes with this idea: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none

Socrates once said, “Envy is the daughter of pride, the author of murder, and revealer of secret sedition, the perpetual tormentor of virtue. Envy is the filthy slime of the soul; a venom, a poison which consumeth the flesh and drieth up the bones.” How true! However, interestingly indeed it is that before Socrates made this true observation, God inspired Solomon to pen, “A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones” (Proverbs 14:30). Most Bible students could attest to the fact that God hates envy and that envy causes problems for all parties involved. However, those same Bible students have never “looked into the perfect law of liberty” (cf. James 1:25) and seen envy in their own lives. Oh, we know what envy looks like in others, but are usually oblivious to it when it rears its ugly head in us. We need to seriously and openly study the sin of envy. First, ENVY’S DEFINITION. Envy is defined as “to see against, that is to look with enmity; To feel uneasiness, mortification or discontent, at the sight of superior excellence, reputation or happiness enjoyed by another; to repine at another’s prosperity; to fret or grieve one’s self at the real or supposed superiority of another” (Webster E-sword). That definition certainly does not apply to anyone of us right? Well, let’s look a little closer. Do you feel uncomfortable when another’s talents or blessings are brought to light in front of you? If

Surely, one of the most wonderful words in the English language is the word home. When we think of home, most think of a place of joy, encouragement, hope, security and fun-filled activities. God’s institution of the home is certainly one of man’s greatest blessings (cf. Genesis 2:18). In fact, it has been said, “The highest happiness on earth is marriage” (Phelps qtd. in Wilmeth 11). Although home is a great blessing indeed, some homes are not what God desires for them to be. Have you ever wondered what God and others see as they view your home from the outside in? In the long ago, an interesting, thought provoking question was asked of King Hezekiah concerning his home. “What have they seen in thine house?” (2 Kings 20:15a) was the question Isaiah, the prophet, initially asked Hezekiah. This question, as Old Testament Bible students know, was asked rhetorically to Hezekiah because of what he had shown the Babylonian embassy. Although this question was asked under a slightly different context, there is still legitimate application to be made for families today. “What have they seen in thine house?” concerning daily Bible reading and study? A grown Christian man in the congregation where I preach recalled to me recently, how he remembers his father and mother daily reading and studying the Scriptures. Consequently, by knowing this man, I can tell that particular memory had a positive influence on his life. I wonder sometimes if our children, once grown, could relate a

What makes Christianity so unique and special? While it is the case that many things could be named in this regard, certainly the resurrection of Christ makes each day for the Christian, worth living! The founder of Christianity, unlike the founders of Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Animism and all other ism’s that plague our world, is alive! Death could not hold the builder and founder of true Christianity, because He rose from the grave on the third day (cf. Matthew 16:18; 27:64 — 28:6)! Because of the resurrection from the dead, Jesus is declared and proven to be the Son of God (Romans 1:4; Ephesians 1:19-23; Revelation 1:18; et al). The resurrection of Christ from the dead is the powerful key to Christianity! What would life be like “If Christ is not raised?” If Christ is not Raised, then PREACHING IS POINTLESS (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:14a). All of the preaching of the inspired apostles is empty rhetoric if Christ was not raised from the dead! This word “vain” actually means “empty, vain, and devoid of truth” (Thayer 343). Without the resurrection, the preaching of Jesus as the Christ means nothing (cf. Romans 1:4)! If Christ is not Raised, then FAITH IS FUTILE (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:14b). Faith in the Gospel is made sure because that faith is based upon real facts (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:1-9; 2 Peter 1:16). If Christ was not raised from the dead, then what makes Christianity different from any other world religion? If Christ was not raised, then our faith

At the close of His masterful Sermon on the Mount, Jesus, speaking in the immediate context of false teachers, affirmed, “Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them” (Matthew 7:17-20 emp. added). Not only are false teachers known by their fruits, but so also are “false Christians.” Although the term “false Christian” is a contradictory term, sadly it is often a reality in the church for which Jesus died. How can we be sure that we are not the corrupt trees of which Jesus spoke? First, we must ask, what fruit should I bring forth?Every accountable person has at sometime brought forth bad fruit (Romans 3:10, 23). However, penitent believers change their fruit (Luke 3:8) and begin to bear fruit pleasing to the Lord (John 15:8). This one no longer walks after the flesh, but now after the Spirit (Romans 8:1ff). As a Christian grows and walks a more mature walk following the Word of God, he or she mortifies or puts to death the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21; Romans 8:13) and begins to bear spiritual fruit. “…the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23). By

John, the beloved apostle wrote, by inspiration, to set forth the solid case proving the Deity and Sonship of Jesus Christ (cf. John 20:30-31). Believing in Who Jesus really is and Who He claimed to be is foundational for salvation and life in Him (John 8:24). While John was guided by the Holy Spirit to write his inspired account of the Gospel (2 Peter 1:20-21), he recorded seven statements by Jesus, the first of which we will consider in this article, which certainly points to His divinity and deity. The day after (cf. John 6:22) Jesus miraculously fed the multitude with five barley loaves and two small fishes (cf. John 6:9ff), the intrigued group sought Jesus all the more. Now these seekers were not sincerely groping for Christ because of Who He was, but rather they were longing for the physical bread that filled their bellies (cf. John 6:26). Jesus continues by exhorting these would-be disciples to toil for spiritual food that only Christ can give (cf. John 6:27ff). The multitude then asks for a sign, while referring to the manna that their fathers were given in the wilderness so many centuries before (cf. John 6:30-31). This multitude obviously had physical bread in mind while Jesus was speaking of the spiritual bread of heaven (cf. John 6:32-34). The point is made crystal clear when “Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never

What would it be like to live the totality of your physical life in darkness? No doubt, we can hardly imagine what it would be like to have NO light, because we are blessed in that we are surrounded by physical light. We have the blessing of walking into a dark room only to flip a switch and dispel the darkness. We have the wonderful blessing of being illuminated by the sun by day and the moon and stars by night. We have flashlights, lanterns, oil lamps and other forms of light to help guide and enlighten our pathway. Physical light is truly a marvelous thing. However, an even greater blessing is the fact that we have spiritual light to illuminate our walk from earth to heaven. I shutter to think of the terrible feeling of doom and despair that would be ours if we had to walk in darkness, spiritually. We would have no sense of peace, direction or destination as we stumbled from day to day. However, because of Jesus, our daily walk is quite the opposite. In the eighth chapter of the Gospel according to John, Jesus, early in the morning, entered the temple and the people came to Him desiring to be taught (cf. John 8:1-2). In the midst of this important early morning teaching session, the scribes and Pharisees interrupted by bringing an adulterous woman caught in the very act of adultery (cf. John 8:3-4). They tempted Jesus by pressing Him as to His punishment

Baptism is by far one of the most controversial subjects in the religious world. In fact, not long ago a denominational person made the statement to this author that he could not understand why I place so much emphasis on baptism. The answer is simple: The reason I place so much emphasis on baptism is because God Almighty has placed great emphasis on the subject. Baptism is a line that God has drawn “in the sand.” And anyone desiring to please God today must cross that line! There are some preliminary matters that are essential in understanding the subject of baptism. What is baptism?The verb “baptize” in the New Testament literally means “to put or go under water” (Mounce 52). Bible baptism is not sprinkling or pouring! Baptism is nothing less than a burial in water (cf. Colossians 2:12; Romans 6:4). Baptism is an act of obedience that God has placed between the sinner and salvation! Why should one be baptized?First, one should be baptized because the Bible commands it! Jesus so lovingly said, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark 16:16; cf. Matthew 28:18-20). Which command(s) can one fail to do and still please God? Obviously no commands can be left undone (cf. James 2:10; 4:17)! The New Testament repeatedly commands baptism (cf. Acts 2:38; 10:33; 48; 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21, et al). One should be baptized because the Bible commands it! Also, one should be baptized because forgiveness demands it! Forgiveness of sin only comes about when

The Sweet Psalmist of Israel confidently penned, “And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee” (Psalm 39:7 emp. added). Although the background of this Psalm is unknown, “[t]he writer looks back on a time when he was troubled by three issues: the fleeting nature of life, the prosperity of the wicked, and the seeming purposelessness of human life. Perhaps he was languishing in poor health and believed that he was nearing the end of his earthly journey. He faced these tough mental struggles with his faith in God. By experiencing the discipline of God, he came to see the true meaning of life” (Cloer 539-40). The fundamental message found in this Psalm is surely, “[t]he God of the Bible is our hope” (Deaver 130). However, without God in our lives, all hope is lost and life is surely empty and useless (cf. Ecclesiastes 1:2ff; 12:8-13). For those who are faithful children of the King, real hope is ours to lay hold of daily. Truly our “hope is in thee!” Our hope is in Thee because in Thee, we have a Friend.It has been said that a man throughout his entire lifetime can count the number of true friends on one hand. While I am not sure that number is exact, it surely is close. True friends are difficult to come by! However, in Jesus we have the truest of all friends!This true friend said Himself, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life

To The diligent student of God’s Word, the above title may be a familiar phrase. The title for these thoughts is a partial quote from the inspired writer James. “…For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away” (James 4:14). In the context of this sobering verse, the Holy Spirit reminds each and every human how fragile life really is. Life passes so very quickly and must be lived to the fullest each day. We are only in this body for a comparatively short amount of time! How can the Christian make certain that he lives each day to the fullest so as to not waste his redeemed years? First, Christians must Daily Outshine the Darkness.Our lives upon this earth are so brief, and therefore, God’s child cannot waste any opportunity to illuminate this dim world. “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid” (Matthew 5:14). It is imperative that each Christian not hide his light, but rather shine brightly. How can we daily outshine the darkness? God’s child illuminates this world by being joyful! Christians have reason to be full of joy, for we know the Savior! Sometime after the birth of Jesus, it is said of the wise men, “When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy” (Matthew 2:10). Christians, like the wise men of old, should radiate with joy because we have seen

It seems as one looks around the world in which we live, during the holiday season, many seem to be focused upon the birth of the Savior. Radio songs, television programs and wonderful displays of lights prove such to be the case. While we understand as New Testament Christians that “Christmas” is not a celebration of the birth of Jesus, we, however, are inclined to still rejoice in the fact that He was born. Jesus truly is the reason to rejoice, not only during December, but each and every month of the year. Isaiah prophesied of the greatness of Jesus when he wrote, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). What magnificent names are given the Savior of the world! His name shall be “Wonderful.” This name carries with it the idea of “extraordinary” (Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew and English Lexicon or BDB, e-sword). When one contemplates the work the Savior was sent to do, what other word would be fitting of Him? Jesus is wonderful because He saved us from our sins (cf. Romans 5:8-10; 6:23). Jesus is wonderful because He saved us for an inheritance that is out of this world (cf. Ephesians 1:11). Jesus is wonderful because He saved us with His own blood (cf. Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 1:18-19). Truly, we all must sing, “A Wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord!” Jesus, what a reason to rejoice

“Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge” (Hebrews 13:4). Sadly, we live in a time when many do not view marriage as an honorable joining together of male and female. In many homes, marriage is viewed as a prison instead of precious. However, the writer of Hebrews affirmed that marriage was in fact an honorable union. Interestingly, this idea of honorable carries with it the idea of something “of great price, precious, esteemed” (Thayer, e-sword). Why would the Holy Spirit declare marriage to be honorable? First, marriage is honorable in its derivation. Simply stated, marriage originated in the mind of God! Marriage is that wonderful, sacred institution designed by an All-Wise Creator for His creation. That fact alone causes marriage to be precious! When God created Adam in the paradise of Eden, He saw that man was all alone and needed a helpmeet (cf. Genesis 2:18). In that wonderful garden so many centuries ago, God created woman, to be a helper and encourager to her husband. God instituted and regulated the honorable union of eligible male with eligible female thus creating marriage, a truly honorable relationship. Secondly, marriage is honorable in its duration. Sadly, we live in an age where many do not revere this God-given, honorable union. Marriage is ordained by God Himself, and He expects us to uphold that sacred union for life! Jesus, in His masterful teaching, gave but one reason (outside of death) for this honorable institution to ever be separated (cf. Matthew 5:31-32;

While not being able to sleep one night, this author turned on the television, which was flooded with infomercials. One infomercial was attempting to convince viewers that within just a few days they could have newfound success, thus leading to complete financial freedom. Another infomercial boasted of giving viewers a new body in just 30 days, and yet another spoke of new and radiant skin that could be “yours within just a week.” These (and many other advertisements) simply reflect the society in which we live. Americans are always looking for new and exciting things, and yet the truth of the matter reveals that these are simply fabricated. New successes, new bodies and new complexions simply do not occur in the manner as some suggest. However, there is a newness that is seen in the one who follows Jesus. Obedience to the Gospel of Christ brings about a complete and entire newness to the one who truly submits to God’s will. The apostle Paul wrote, “…if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). What “new things” are ours as Christians? In the first place, Christians have A NEW DISTINCT IDENTITY. Children of God are no longer identified as servants of sin, but rather servants of righteousness (cf. Romans 6:17-18). Once a person submits to God’s plan of salvation, he is no longer a sinner but now a saint. We are then characterized as righteous and

The world’s greatest teacher of all time was without a doubt, Jesus Christ! He always said the right thing no matter what situation confronted Him. His use of words was truly unique and unlike any other. His inimitable method and style of teaching astonished many of those who heard Him. “For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes” (Matthew 7:29). Even the enemies of the Lord were impressed with His words. On one particular occasion Jesus was in the Temple in Jerusalem during the Feast of Tabernacles (cf. John 7:14). He had been very bold, as usual, in answering the skepticism and criticism of some of the Pharisees and scribes (cf. John 7:16ff). Jesus had mentioned the fact that He and His doctrine had come from God (John 7:16-18), which was more than any unbelieving Jew could take. So, “…the Pharisees and the chief priests sent officers to take him” (John 7:32b). However, these officers did not bring the Savior back with them, and when questioned as to their reason they declared, “…Never man spake like this man” (John 7:46b). A truer statement has never been uttered!     Never man spake like this man because Jesus spoke with tender compassion. When Jesus extended an invitation for all of mankind to come to Him, His words were inundated with compassion and concern (cf. Matthew 11:28-30). Tender compassion was at the very heart of the Savior, in fact it could be rightfully said that real compassion and caring emanate from Jesus (cf. John 15:13). “But when

Often a “casual” reading of the Bible causes us to somewhat pass over inspired, important, thought-provoking phrases. During a recent “casual” reading of the Bible, this author came across a familiar phrase that is truly thought provoking. The Holy Spirit, using the pen of the great apostle Paul wrote, “Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come” (1 Corinthians 16:2, emp. added). Obviously, in the context of this verse, Paul commands regular and adequate giving on the part of the Christian. The privilege of weekly giving is truly an important part of worship that must not be taken lightly or done grudgingly (cf. 2 Corinthians 9:7; Acts 20:35). However, the phrase, “…as God hath prospered him…” causes this author to reflect upon the goodness of God and His willingness to give good gifts to His children (cf. James 1:17; Luke 11:13). Meditate upon just a few of the areas wherein God prospers you.     First, God has prospered you physically. Take, for instance, the very fact that you are able to read such an article as this and comprehend it. Would that blessing alone not prove the case that you have been blessed with a competent mind? Consider also the fact that your eyes are at least well enough to focus upon the words contained herein. Would that not confirm God’s prospering of you physically with a good (or at least decent) pair of

Someone has correctly written, “Hell is God’s justice; heaven is his love; earth, his longsuffering.” God is patiently waiting in His longsuffering while we live upon this earth. Peter affirmed, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9 emphasis added). Have you ever considered the longsuffering of the God we serve? God’s patience is seen in His seeming delay of the pending judgment and wrath to come. Why is God longsuffering and patient in His judgment?     In the first place, God is longsuffering to give all a chance to repent of his or her Old Life. God desires for all to come to repentance; that is His hope and desire for mankind (1 Timothy 2:4)! The Lord’s delay in returning is not a permit to enjoy our sins for a longer season, but rather it is an extended opportunity to get sin and worldliness out of our lives! It is God’s goodness that should lead us all to rid ourselves of sinful conduct (Romans 2:4). Everyday that we are able to be on this side of God’s wrath and judgment should be another day to cleanse ourselves of sin and spiritual impurities. As the song we often sing with our children says, “He’s still working on me, to make me what I ought to be.” Continual repentance brings us closer to being Christ-like, and that should be

One of my favorite children’s songs has always been the song that bears the same title of this article. In that wonderful, easily understood song there is part of a verse that reads, “When I see the little lilies pushing up the heavy sod, I marvel at the wisdom of my God.” Spring is such a wonderful time of the year! Precious flowers are now blooming where snow and ice recently rested. Spring frogs sing their melodious chant at dusk and birds recite their tunes early in the morning hours. What a precious privilege it is to be alive and well in this renewed season called spring. God’s wisdom in any season can be seen, but to me personally, a special part of His wisdom is witnessed during this glorious time of the year. What can we see concerning the wisdom of God during spring?     In the first place, we see God’s Wisdom is not affected by time. Although winter’s cold and gloomy days often seem unending, God’s wisdom is not affected in the least bit, no matter how long a period of time passes. In due time, the flowers still bloom, the frogs still chant and the birds still sing! Interestingly, we as humans often get the idea that God and His wisdom are affected by time. Was that not what some, during Peter’s day, were falsely affirming? “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the

The Hebrews writer commanded, “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:23-25 emphasis added). Just as the early Christians were told and expected to encourage each other, we too must learn to encourage and exhort each other as well. The words to a familiar song by Lizzie DeArmond tell how important encouragement is: “O the things we may do, you and I, you and I, O the love we can give if we try, Just a word or a song as we’re passing along, they will count in the great by and by” (emphasis added). Encouragement is essential to church growth; and so we ask how can we encourage each other as the Hebrews writer commanded?     In the first place, we can encourage each other by our good example. A good example is an encouragement to others, while a bad example is a discouragement!We see in Acts 4 that many were selling what they had to distribute to needy saints and notice what is said of Barnabas, “And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet” (Acts 4:36-37). The “Son

December 25th marks a man-made holiday where many in the religious world celebrate the day on which they believe that Jesus was born. However, there is no biblical evidence for such a religious celebration on that certain day. Christians understand that if were not for the virgin birth of Jesus, we all would be lost in sin. Sometimes, in attempting to flee the false notion that Jesus was born on December 25th, many go so far to the other side of the spectrum as to not even mention the birth of the Savior, for fear we may be like those in the denominational world. Although it is true that we must be concerned with maintaining our identity as Bible believing individuals, we must not go so far to the other side that we fail to be thankful and rejoice in the awesome birth of the one who takes away the sins of the world (Matthew 1:21). The virgin birth of Jesus teaches us many things.     In the first place, the virgin birth teaches us the promise of God. God promised to send forth His Son born of a woman that had never known a man in a sexual way. Isaiah, guided by God’s Holy Spirit, affirmed, “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). This promise was given seven centuries before its fulfillment took place. When God makes a promise, time

Is baptism really necessary for the salvation of one’s soul? This seems to be a question that is discussed frequently in the religious world. To answer such a question one must appeal to the Bible and the Bible only. The inspired writer Luke states, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). The word “name” as used in this passage refers to authority. We are saved by submitting to the authority of Jesus Christ. Submitting to the authority of Jesus Christ means obeying what He has commanded. Jesus said, “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark 16:15-16). In this passage, one can see that baptism is required by the Lord in order to be saved. This and many other statements in the New Testament are clear and understandable, and yet many in the religious world say there is nothing for one to do to be saved, only believe.     Consider what Saul of Tarsus asked Jesus on the road to Damascus; “And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do” (Acts 9:6). Saul asked the Lord what he

“We read of a place that’s called heaven, it’s made for the pure and the free; these truths in God’s Word He has given, How beautiful heaven must be.” “This world is not my home, I’m just a passing through, my treasures are laid up, somewhere beyond the blue, the angels beckon me from heaven’s open door, and I can’t feel at home in this world anymore.” What wonderful songs we sing about heaven, which bring radiant joy to our hearts as we live upon this earth. I love to think and to meditate on heaven and the glory that one day we shall behold. When I think about heaven, it reminds me how badly I desire to go home! Truly, how beautiful heaven must be! Heaven has been the hope of believers in all ages. Righteous Abraham looked forward to heaven (cf. Hebrews 11:10), and Moses of the long ago also groped for the beauties therein (cf. Hebrews 11:26). Like the righteous of old, we too look forward to heaven! What can we know about this wonderful place to which we look forward? What does the Bible have to say about our eternal dwelling place?     In the first place, the Bible gives us the Promise of Heaven. Heaven is an eternal dwelling place that is promised to those who are faithful. Just prior to His ascension back to heaven, Jesus comfortingly assured the disciples, “…In my Father’s house are many mansions…” (John 14:2a). Jesus gave a promise of which we can

When we consider the very first couple, Adam and Eve, we are made to ponder the reason for their transgression of God’s Law. Although centuries removed from that Paradise, the lessons are as relevant as the current breath on our lips. Moses records the events for us in somewhat great detail in Genesis 3:1-7. While there are many lessons one could learn from that first couple, let us consider three of great significance.     In the first place, from the first couple we learn the importance of a godly mate. How different would this narrative read if Eve would have had the support of a godly mate, or if Adam would have had Eve’s positive persuasion? When the serpent came to her and tempted her to sin (cf. Genesis 3:4), what strength could she have gained if only Adam would have stepped up and accepted his spiritual responsibility. A terrible recipe indeed is found when one mate has not the strength from the other! The importance of a godly mate cannot be over-emphasized! Young and old alike, before you make that lifelong commitment to a person of the opposite sex, ask yourself, “Will this person help me go to heaven?” We learn from the first couple the importance of a godly mate.     In the second place, from the first couple we learn the intention of the Serpent. Satan came to Eve with the very intent to cause her to succumb to temptation, thus becoming separated from God. Did Eve really believe Satan’s lie

As we look around to the wonderful sights of autumn, we continually are reminded that nothing stays the same. It seems like just yesterday that it was warming and spring was quickly approaching. However, here we are at yet another stage in life, and another season is rapidly nearing. The evenings are cool and crisp and the nights remind one to give thanks to God for the warmth of a good heating source. As I reflect on the changes that so quickly come each season, I am reminded of the words of Solomon, “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Life does not stand still for anyone; it rapidly marches on, and things change. Our physical bodies age and change; our minds loose their sharpness; our joints and muscles hurt like never before; and what used to be a thing of minimal effort soon becomes a task of great pain. There truly is for everything a season. When we are young, we feel as though we will never age, but soon that thought diminishes with the passing of time. Young and old alike must realize that change does occur, and for that reason we all must understand that the only lasting thing is our eternal soul. Many of the seasoned members in the church can think back to a time when they could run and work with little pain; they did not break as easily, and they healed much more quickly.

The above reflective and sobering statement was made to me by a sister in Christ just recently. In the midst of a trying time in her life, she said, “I wish people were more like God!” The immediate context of that statement involved forgiveness and the wonderful blessings afforded those whose sins are covered (cf. Romans 4:7). That statement is one of which, since that day, I have not forgotten. In fact, that statement keeps coming forth in my mind and is the motivation behind this article. I, too, wish people were more like God!     I wish people were more like God, when it comes to their compassion. God’s compassion is clearly seen in the parable of the Prodigal Son (cf. Luke 15:20). Although the son in this parable had committed sin and made some grave mistakes, the father still had compassion on the son, and upon his repentance the father was able to accept the son. When it comes to our daily involvement with others, do we exemplify that father’s compassion? Or is it the case that we condescendingly look down upon others who have made errors? Do we really forgive when that erring one returns? Or do we have the arrogant attitude of the elder brother (cf. Luke 15:25ff)? Oh, how I wish people were more like God when it comes to compassion!     I wish people were more like God, when it comes to their character. The very character of God is seen in his unmerited favor toward

The apostle Paul referred to a peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7). What kind of peace can you and I have that will pass all understanding? We live in a world that does not know real peace. Our world is in constant turmoil and dismay. This attitude often “rubs” off on the child of God. Peace does not come by mere accident or mistake. In order to have real peace, we must work diligently in trying to obtain inward tranquility. Peace is not the absence of problems, but rather having the proper mindset in the face of problems. It is no secret that we all face problems! Some more severe than others, but nonetheless we still all face them. How can Christians find peace in the face of problems? How can you and I learn to have the peace that passes all understanding in a world that is in complete mayhem?     I believe that in order to enjoy real peace, you must, in the first place, trust less in yourself and trust more in God. Many times, we try to handle daily struggles on our own, and it is soon apparent that we fall short. The prophet Jeremiah said, “O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps” (Jeremiah 10:23). You and I are inadequate when it comes to trying to solve all of our problems alone. We need God’s help each day to direct our steps

 “For we are laborers together with God…” (1 Corinthians 3:9a). This short statement from the inspired pen of the apostle Paul essentially sums up my sentiment. I am truly thankful and blessed for the opportunity to assist the current staff of GGO in taking the Gospel to the world (cf. Matthew 28:18-20), as the new Associate Editor. It is our continued prayer that GGO will remain a channel of blessing to those seeking spiritual help. As we labor together with our heavenly Father, may we continue to teach only the truth in love (cf. Ephesians 4:15), and continue to shine as bright lights in this dark world (cf. Philippians 2:15). We pray you, the readers, will be eternally blessed as you read this month’s Gazette.

A sign found in a church foyer read, “Do not feel totally, personally or completely responsible for everything; that’s my job!” Signed God. How often in life do we become “stressed out” and over anxious because we do feel “totally, personally and completely responsible for everything?” Do we not often feel that we must solve all of our problems ourselves, and that unless we come up with the right solution all will be lost? Of course, it is true that we must take responsibility for our own actions, but for the child of God to forget that we have a “Mighty Fortress” on which to lean is sad indeed. Oh, the anxiety we will face when we feel as though we are in this life all alone and without the providential hand of our heavenly Father to help us! Anxiety overwhelms the person who tries to handle everything on his own. Webster’s defines anxiety as, “A painful uneasiness of mind” (Webster’s Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary 93). A Christian could define undue anxiety as, “A lack of trust in God.” Anxiety is to a Christian as a cement block tied around the leg of a runner. It slows Christians down as they try to run the marathon of faith! Undue anxiety in its bare form is taking on God’s responsibility (cf. Matthew 6:25-34). How can we as Christians rid our lives of undue anxiety so that we may run the race of faith less hindered?     In the first place, undue anxiety will lessen

Most times as parents we all want what is best for our kids. We seek the best possible food and dietary needs for them as they develop and grow. When the time comes for our children to go to school, we make certain that they receive the best education they can obtain. We will sacrifice many evenings in aiding them with homework and other “out of school” activities. Parents will often make sure their children visit the doctor and dentist regularly so that they have proper physical health. We make sure that our children have regular baths and brush their teeth on a regular basis to prevent poor health. Most parents make sure their kids are happy and safe and given those things in life that they need.     However, when it comes to spiritual development, those same concerned parents often fail. While it is important to provide and care for our children physically, it should not be to the neglect of the spiritual. If, as parents, we fail to instill in our kids the importance of God and the church, my friend we have failed to the utmost degree! We owe it to our precious children’s souls to make certain that we “Seek the kingdom first” (Matthew 6:33). Our kids will be able to tell whether church is something we do on Sunday or Christianity is something we live each day. If God is first, our kids will have a greater opportunity to be faithful to the Lord themselves.

One of the great joys as parents that Julene and I have experienced is watching Joshua play church. Often times he will get one of his children’s songbooks, stand at the coffee table and begin to “lead” the congregation in songs of praise. Other times Joshua will get his little New Testament and stand at the “pulpit,” which is actually our coffee table, and preach his little heart out to anyone who will listen, while he pounds his little hand upon the table. Joshua “plays” church, and what a beautiful and encouraging sight it is to behold.     However, this same sight is sometimes reenacted by those who should not be “playing” church but actually should be involved wholeheartedly in the worship to God and the work of his church. Brethren who are redeemed by the blood of Christ and who are partakers of the Holy Spirit often become guilty of living in the world six days a week, only to slip into their Sunday clothes in order to “play” church, soothe their consciences and fool the brethren. They are like actors on a stage, learning their lines, wearing a costume and going through the motions of playing a role. Merely acting like a Christian will not make one a true Christian! Someone has well said, “Sitting in church will no more make one a Christian than sitting in a hen house will make one a chicken.” How true that is! Playing church is incredibly sweet when the player is