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This space will consistently display the online edition of

CONSIDER MAGAZINE. There have been occasional offerings of Consider Magazine via the printed page and via Email;   

dating as far back in time as 1970 - these will be included in this section

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CONSIDER MAGAZINE

----- Published Monthly -----

Editor: Publisher: Garreth L. Clair

2977 Carlsbad Drive

Hilliard, Ohio 43026

Phone: (614) 850-7252

Email: glclair@sbcglobal.net

FAX - 6148507252

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Volume 1 ------------------------ Number 3 ----------------------- December 2008

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EDITORIAL: THE CORRECT EMPHASIS

            This issue of "CONSIDER MAGAZINE" is an attempt to encourage pulpit preaching and class teaching that deliberately emphasis and glorifies Jesus Christ.  Our mission is to fill the ears of those that come to hear us preach and teach with the gospel of Jesus Christ (i.e., the good news about salvation that has been brought to mankind through the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ).  We are not suggesting that any Biblical subjects should be neglected,  we acknowledge that all the Bible teaches is the "Truth" and that it is to be taught to everyone (cf. Matt 28:18-20  1 8And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.  19Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.). Not only is it the "Truth" to be proclaimed but the Lord says that the "Truth" can make man free from sin (cf., John 8:32-36,  32And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.33They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?34Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. 36If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.).  Jesus Christ must be or must become the central figure in our preaching if we are to accomplish that which our Savior would have us accomplish for Him,  the evangelizing of our world today.

A DIFFICULT TIME:

            Today we hear a great deal about the problems of reaching the sinner with the gospel,  today there are indeed many obstacles in our path to reach the sinner - yet we are duty bound by the ethic of Christian conduct  (e.g.,  "love thy neighbor as thyself") to do all that we can to enlist the sinner into Christ's Church.  We most certainly can do the work today as it has been done in past ages, we can begin our work by preaching and teaching that which glorifies Christ.  Perhaps our day is a difficult time in history to reach the sinner, granting that to be true, that does not excuse me and you from reaching out to those in sin wherever they are found.  The glorification of Christ is a privilege in any period of time, whether it is good or bad - brethren, preach Jesus Christ (i.e. the gospel).

WE MUST CONSISTENTLY WORK:

            There has never been a time of greater need for men to teach the gospel of Christ to other people. There are great problems of unbelief in most of the countries in the world that are dominated by the Islamic religion. It extremely dangerous for Christians to work and try to worship God in many parts of the world. The continued efforts to evangelize, even in Islamic dominated countries is a necessity. Let us remember these facts as we attempt to work the works of God. Paul told Timothy long ago that the gospel must be preached even to those who will not hear it, cf. 2 Timothy 4:1-4, ”I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: 2 Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables“ (NKJV).

SOME OF THE EVENTS OF LIFE

(I.e. Thoughts about knowing God and ourselves)

            The greatest work one may accomplish in life is a work for God. There are many things that a person may do during their life time, yet there is nothing that will matter more than to choose to serve the ”One True God“. There may be temptations to ignore the call of God that tells us we need to repent of our sins and turn to God but the greatest good for ourselves and for others can truly be accomplished as a servant of the most High; God.

            While we are un-accountable to God through youth (i.e. birth to 8-12), the time comes when we began to feel a sense of guilt about our actions that are in violation to known directives of God. Indeed, many times we push the guilt feelings back somewhere within but they continue to plague us throughout life unless we make a decision to believe and obey God (Acts 2:37-41). Recognizing the calling of God on us is not too difficult but sometimes we know that it is time for us to do the will of God and become a Christian.

            The joy of becoming a Christian is overwhelming, often leading to happy tears of joy upon coming up out of the water after being immerses for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38). I often reminisce about one of the songs that were sung at the baptism of some where I attended services as a boy; the song was O Happy Day or something like that – perhaps that was one of the lines in the song. You will never regret becoming a Christian, you will always remember the time that you became a Christian and where that event took place in your life.

            One of the sad experiences that may come in your life is the time you come to realize that even though you did become a Christian some time back there, now you are caught again in the beggarly elements of the world, you have become a backslider (2 Peter 2:20-22, 20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. 21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. 22 But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.(KJV).

            Whatever state you are in at the present time, will you consider your influence on me, on your husband/wife, on your children, on your neighbors, on your own abandonment of God and unhappiness which come and ultimately leads to depression or worse? Please while you are still able to make a conscious decision about your relationship with God; ”come back to God.“ God assures us that we will be welcome back – cf. Matt 11:28, 28 Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (KJV)

            Do what you need to do about your relationship to God soon – you may not have many more good days to make that ultimate decision about your soul - Heb 3:15-4:1, 15 While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. 16 For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. 17 But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness? 18 And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not? 19 So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief. Hebrews 4, ”4:1 Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. (KJV)

glclair@aol.com

Friday, December 26, 2008

LAST ISSUE FOR 2008 ...

Consider Magazine

----- Published Monthly -----

Editor & Publisher: Garreth L. Clair

2977 Carlsbad Drive

Hilliard, Ohio 43026

Phone: (614) 850-7252

Email: glclair@sbcglobal.net

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Volume 1 ---------------------- Number 2 --------------------- November 2008

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QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

(regarding Bible subjects)

QUESTION

Garreth, please tell me how one is to deal with the mental worry and concern about questions of a personal nature that we must deal with in life?

ANSWER:

I am not sure what the question involves so I will answer the question as best I can given the nature of the question as I understand it.

WHO IS ABLE?                                                                                                                           Many have been the times in life that we ask ourselves the question, ”I can’t solve the problem and I do not know who can!“ Indeed, to many problems and terrors of life we silently ask the question, ”Who is able“ for we know that we cannot deal with the calamity that has come upon us. Another question that invades our thought processes from time to time, becoming more and more urgent as age creeps upon us is; ”Who can help me with this great trouble that I am in?“                       

Perhaps an example that many of us can relate is found in the pitiful cry of Job as he suffers in almost every way that a human could suffer --- J

ob 19:7, ”7 Behold, I cry out of wrong, but I am not heard: I cry for help, but there is no justice.“ ASV –

Job 30:24-28, ”24 Howbeit doth not one stretch out the hand in his fall? Or in his calamity therefore cry for help? 25 Did not I weep for him that was in trouble? Was not my soul grieved for the needy? 26 When I looked for good, then evil came; and when I waited for light, there came darkness. 27 My heart is troubled, and resteth not; Days of affliction are come upon me. 28 I go mourning without the sun: I stand up in the assembly, and cry for help“ ASV.

Do not be discouraged, do not give up, stand up and look for relief for there is help available for all our calamities and hurts. Indeed, if we will look to our Creator, God! We might look at the great example of David, a man who in spite of his failings and great loss always knew that he could not loose his sanity or his secure relationship with Jehovah if he continued to place his trust in Him. David understood this fact even though he stated in this Psalms, ”through the valley of the shadow of death“ that God would be with him and never abandon him. ---  Psalms 23,”            

1 Jehovah is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: He guideth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Yea, thou I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou hast anointed my head with oil; My cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and loving-kindness shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of Jehovah for ever.“ ASV             

This is the peace that God’s children possess if they will come to Him and remain faithful to His instruction, God will always give us the victory over troubles, trials, and tribulations.

Prov 21:31, ”31 The horse is prepared against the day of battle; But victory is of Jehovah.“ ASV ---

1 Cor 15:57-58, ”57 but thanks be to God, who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, un-moveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not vain in the Lord.“ ASV 

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QUESTION

Dear brother Clair, what does Paul mean in the two verse phrase in 1 Cor 15:1-2?

ANSWER:

The two verses; 1 Cor 15:1-2,

”1 Now I make known unto you brethren, the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye received, wherein also ye stand,

2 by which also ye are saved, if ye hold fast the word which I preached unto you, except ye believed in vain.“ ASV

As I understand these two verses, Paul is telling those brethren that they became Christians when they obeyed the gospel which he had preached [i.e. taught] them and that they were faithfully holding to that instruction. [verse 1].

In reference to that event [i.e. verse 1 – becoming saved from sin and faithfully abiding therein] he says that ”they are saved [”from sin“]  if they continue to faithfully serve according to the Lord’s will.

”except ye believed in vain“ ---

This phrase apparently means that it is possible that some believed ”only“ and were not converted – example;

James 2:19-20, ”19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?“

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QUESTIONS

a.         Brother Clair, I know that the Bible is a good book but would you say it is a perfect book?

b.         Garreth, I have a question about the contents of the Bible – is it all genuine or have additions by men been added?

c.         Brother Clair, does the Bible really change the lives of people or is that just a good catch phrase?

ANSWER:

I have a number of questions that are similar in nature to these three that I have listed. I want to give a general answer to these and many other questions that I have heard or been asked through the years about the Bible {I will have other answers to similar questions in this column later}, the answer follows:

HOW WE VIEW THE BIBLE [by glclair@aol.com]                                                                                                    

If the Bible is from God, as I believe it is, all people in the world are personally responsible for the way they respond to it.

If the Bible is from God, as I believe it is, someday everyone in the world will be judged by its contents.

If the Bible is from God, as I believe it is, all people in the world should look at its contents and make life choices about how they will react to it.

If the Bible is from God, as I believe it is, everyone will one day bow to Jesus Christ Who is "King of Kings and Lord of Lords."

If the Bible is from God, as I believe it is, all of humanity must follow whatever God has said about any subject named in it, unless there are exclusions contained within the instruction.

If the Bible is from God, as I believe it is, every statement and every thing in it is absolutely true and cannot be contested by any man or group of men.

If the Bible is from God, as I believe it is, the first two verses in the Book of Genesis are true. Therefore, mankind is composed of simply created beings that God has blessed beyond expression.

If the Bible is from God, as I believe it is, I will obey, live accordingly, love God, love my neighbor, and do as He instructs me. I will thank Him continually for my life; for my mind and body health; for Jesus Christ, His great gift for my sins; indeed, for everything.

I will be a Christian because I believe in God, the Bible, and everything about God's Book:

If the Bible is not from God, I will live out my life as a Christian not knowing it. I will eventually die and be buried somewhere, and my memory will finally subside so that one-thousand years from today, no one will ever know that I have lived.

If the Bible is from God, because I made a personal choice in my life to believe and obey Him, someday all the promises He has made to me will become reality. I will gain victory, the thought of which encourages me to continue faithfully day by day seeking to do God’s will.

”For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: Death is swallowed up in victory. O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory? The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.“ (1 Corinthians 15:54-58)  --- Bible Questions and Answers by glc

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QUESTION

a.         Garreth, What is the cause of sin, why do people sin? [two part  question]

b.         Preacher, please define sin in terms I can understand!

c.         Will God forgive all sin?

ANSWER:

WHAT CAUSES SIN [Editor]

            According to many honest people the wickedness of many people can be attributed to external situations that the sinner has no control over.  If sinners cannot be held responsible for their sins on this count, then God would be unjust to condemn them.  Since this is an interesting proposition let us look at this matter carefully and honestly and see if it is so.

            Man’s violation of divine law places him in sin and to escape the penalty of sin he must go to God for cleansing.

REFERENCES:

Rom 14:23,

23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. (KJV)

1 John 3:4-8,

4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.

5 And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin .

6 Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.

7 Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.

8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. (KJV)

IS A GOOD,

WHOLESOME ENVIRONMENT THE CAUSE FOR MAN'S CHOOSING TO SERVE GOD?

            According to this reasoning Adam and Eve had no excuse for their sin because they possessed the best of everything in the world.  Adam and Eve had the perfection of all that God had created to enjoy; surely this perfect environment would insure their choosing to serve God if environment is the reason for man's choosing God or failing to do so. Please read Gen. two and three, you will see that Adam and Eve sinned against God in spite of the absolutely perfect environment in which they were privileged to live and enjoy (i.e., God's perfect paradise).

            Remember the trials of Job; Job was a trial case that dictates man is not righteous because he prospers or acquires greatness but he is righteous through righteous action to serve a good God. Consider the book of job AND Job’s steadfastness in serving God regardless of the misfortune that overwhelmed him.

DOES DEPRIVATION

DETERMINE WHETHER ONE WILL CHOOSE TO SERVE GOD OR NOT?

            Some folks claim that a person's economic situation determines whether they will choose to serve God or not, is this true? Possibly the richest man in the world (i.e., Solomon, King of Israel) had everything that wealth could provide (cf. 1 Kings 10:14), yet Solomon's wealth and his environment did not prevent him from sinning against God note the following reference relating to this situation:

I King 11:4-11,

4          For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father.

5          For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites.

6          And Solomon did evil in the sight of the LORD, and went not fully after the LORD, as did David his father.

7          Then did Solomon build an high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the hill that is before Jerusalem, and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon.

8          And likewise did he for all his strange wives, which burnt incense and sacrificed unto their gods.

9          And the LORD was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the LORD God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice,

10        And had commanded him concerning this thing, that he should not go after other gods: but he kept not that which the LORD commanded.

11        Wherefore the LORD said unto Solomon, Forasmuch as this is done of thee, and thou hast not kept my covenant and my statutes, which I have commanded thee, I will surely rend the kingdom from thee, and will give it to thy servant.  (KJV)

DOES A GOOD HOME INSURE THAT ONE WILL CHOOSE TO SERVE GOD?

            The reasoning here is, if a child in raised up in a good moral and ethical home life, with a traditional family situation, that person will most likely choose to serve God.  If this reasoning were true then the Prodigal Son" surely could be depended upon to choose God, but he did not:

Luke 15:11-24,

11        And he said, A certain man had two sons:

12        And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.

13        And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.

14        And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.

15        And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.

16        And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.

17        And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!

18        I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,

19        And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.

20        And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

21        And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.

22        But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:

23        And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:

24        For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.

EVEN ANGELS HAVE CHOSEN TO SIN AGAINST GOD

            Any serious and thoughtful person will surely think that because of the angel's relationship to the Godhead, their blessed position, their environmental conditions, etc., that they would never choose to disobey God. Angels have chosen to disobey God as people have, please notice the following Scriptural reference in this regard: Jude 1:6

"And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation (i.e., sinned-glc), he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day."

CONCLUSION:

            The so-called "good environment" is not the cure-all for the sins of humanity.   Even under the very best environmental circumstance man may choose to disobey the Lord and serve the Devil. From our study we have seen that men and angels have chosen to sin against God in past ages.  If we do not consider carefully our decisions of life we may choose to disobey God as those of past ages have done.  Our ability to choose between good and evil is the factor that causes us to sin, if we are drawn away from Godly thoughts and enticed we may sin. 

NOTE THE FOLLOWING FACT:

James 1:13-16

13        Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:

14        But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

15        Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death (i.e., spiritual death - separation from God - glc).

16        Do not err, my beloved brethren.  (KJV)

            Many temptations arise when one is dissatisfied and allows those dissatisfactions to control their life: Proverbs 30:15           "The horseleach hath two daughters, crying, Give, give. There are three things that are never satisfied, yea; four things say not, It is enough"

            It is true that a "bad environment", economic circumstance, poverty, etc., may cause hardship for anyone but the decision to serve God or reject him comes from within.  Man is capable of making the right decision just as he is to make the wrong decisions in life.  The worst decision anyone could ever make is to reject Christ and reject His Church.  Please, my friend, choose to serve the Lord Jesus Christ and reject the Devil's enticements today.

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QUESTION

a.         Brother Clair, what is your view on the Crusades of the middle Ages, the war of Christians and Moslems?

b.         Garreth, why do Christians try to kill and in some cases do kill people who are involved in abortion.

c.         Garreth, what do you think about the so called Spanish explorers that first came to this country under the flag of religion only to murder and plunder the native people living here – how can you justify such atrocious actions by Christians.

Immediate response by glc:

{MURDER IS NEVER JUSTIFIED UNDER CHRIST’S LAW!}

ANSWER:

All murder is sinful; all mistreatment of those that disagree with you is sin, to kill for profit is sinful too. I do not believe the Law of Christ allows for Christians to kill their rivals, their critics, or their enemies under any situation. I appeal to the following Biblical References to collaborate my thoughts:

Matt 5:38-45,

38 Ye have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:

39 but I say unto you, resist not him that is evil: but whosoever smiteth thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

40 And if any man would go to law with thee, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also.

41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go one mile, go with him two.

42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.

43 Ye have heard that it was said; Thou shall love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy:

44 but I say unto you, love your enemies, and pray for them that persecute you;

45 that ye may be sons of your Father who is in heaven: for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and the unjust“ ASV.

Matt 5:43-45,

43 Ye have heard that it was said, Thou shall love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy:

44 but I say unto you, love your enemies, and pray for them that persecute you;

45 that ye may be sons of your Father who is in heaven: for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and the unjust“ ASV.

Luke 10:30-37,

30 Jesus made answer and said, A certain man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho; and he fell among robbers, who both stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

31 And by chance a certain priest was going down that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

32 And in like manner a Levite also, when he came to the place, and saw him, passed by on the other side.

33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he was moved with compassion,

34 and came to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring on (them) oil and wine; and he set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

35 And on the morrow he took out two shillings, and gave them to the host, and said, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, I, when I come back again, will repay thee.

36 Which of these three, thinkest thou, proved neighbor unto him that fell among the robbers?

37 And he said, He that showed mercy on him. And Jesus said unto him, Go, and do thou likewise“

Rom 13:10,

10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: love therefore is the fulfillment of the law“ ASV.

CONCLUSION:

I am of the opinion that Christians will never do anyone harm, if they do hurt another person they are guilty of sin, sin then must be corrected by the sinful person or that person cannot go to heaven. The history of religion shows many occasions where so called Christians were involved in sinful practices, the only explanation that fits the New Testament teaching Of Jesus is; the perpetuators of evil have fallen away from God’s will and will be lost eternally unless they personally repent and return to God. In this study we are looking at the subject of murder!

NOTE:  We will answer a question about abortion and related question in more detail later!  --- glc

Consider Magazine

----- Published Monthly -----

Editor & Publisher: Garreth L. Clair

2977 Carlsbad Drive

Hilliard, Ohio 43026

Phone: (614) 850-7252

Email: glclair@sbcglobal.net

========================================

EMAIL PRINTED VERSION:

Volume 1 --------------- Number 1 ------------- October 2008

========================================

Premier Issue of Email edition

            The great need to study the Bible and its value to mankind cannot be overstated. The forces of evil that influence mankind has not changed; the evil one (i.e. Satan – cf. 1 Peter 5:8, ”Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:“ (KJV) is still active and he has enlisted many disciples in this modern era to destroy the effectiveness of God’s Witten Word (i.e. the Bible). It has been my desire from the time of my first sermon more than fifty years ago to sow the good seed (i.e. the Word of God - Luke 8:11, ”Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.“ (KJV) into the hearts of honest and sincere people; I have found that the effectiveness of God’s Word has fallen increasingly upon the ears of disinterested people – people who have had  their senses for good (i.e. righteous things - Luke 6:39, ”And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind ? shall they not both fall into the ditch?“ (KJV) deadened by the advocates of evil.

WE WILL DO OUR BEST TO ENCOURAGE TRUTH:

            With whatever time that is left in this present world I will endeavor to write via this medium so that everyone will be able to understand my intention. As my father before me often said; ”Son, if your teaching is on a level that children can understand, there is no excuse for the adults in your audience misunderstanding.“; this concept has often encouraged me to ”Keep on; keeping on.“

            As we enter upon this project, we will solicit your prayers, encouragement, and help. There will be much work that Barbara and I will yet be able to accomplish; this is our constant prayer.

BIBLE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS #1

QUESTION SUBMITTED:

            The question submitted this time is a two-part question. Since it is a two-part question we will answer it as two questions.

            The question: {1} Can a person go to heaven without being baptized in water? {2} can water take away sins?

QUESTION ANSWERED:

EDITOR'S UNDERSTANDING OF THE QUESTION -- I assume that the question relates to people who have lived under the New Covenant. If that is the case then the following will shed some light on the two questions -- glc.

Answer to {1}: The only answer that I can give is whatever the Word of God has to say about it. The Word of God teaches that those that:

1.                  Hear; Romans 10:17, "So belief (cometh) of hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ."

2.                  Believe; Mark 16:15-16, "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to the whole creation. -- He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that disbelieveth shall be condemned." ASV

3.         Repent: Acts 2:38, "And Peter (said) unto them, Repent ye, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ unto the remission of your sins; and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." ASV

4.         Confess; Romans 10:9-10, "because if thou shalt confess with thy mouth Jesus (as) Lord, and shalt believe in thy heart that God raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved: -- for with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." ASV

5.         And are Baptized for the remission of sin; Acts 2:38, "And Peter (said) unto them, Repent ye, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ unto the remission of your sins; and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."

Will be saved from their sin

The Word of God also states in 1 Peter 3:21, "Corresponding to that, baptism now saves you -- not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience -- through the resurrection of Jesus Christ," NKJV

            Since the Written Word of God gives us this information about how to be saved and no other plan is suggested, we must follow these instructions about baptism in order to know surely what will be acceptable to God. I have no other reliable information on the subject.

Question {2} can water take away sins?

Answer: I know of no passage of Scripture that teaches that water saves a person or that water has some power to save one from sin. The Scriptures in question #1 indicate that salvation is attained whenever man obeys the instruction of the Lord, which instructions include baptism in water. The obedience to Divine instruction on the part of the sinner is what saves him, not the water. The water is the element that the action of immersion (i.e., baptism) requires according to God's Word -- cf., Mark 1:9-10; Acts 8:36-39; Rom 6:3-4; 1 Peter 3:21. If further study is required please contact us, we want to help. Thank you for the question, editor.

BIBLE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS #2

QUESTION SUBMITTED:

Do you really think that there is a burning hell for anyone in God's plans?

QUESTION ANSWERED:

The questioner apparently is not sure whether there is a hell for the wicked after this life is finished. Addressing this question is important because of the teaching of some religious people as well as the agnostic and the atheist that there is no hell for the wicked.

The only way to settle any religious question is to go to the source of authority for all religions; the Word of God {i.e., the Bible} is the only reliable document for the settlement of religious disputes. To appeal to any other source is useless in the settlement of religious questions. Having established this fact, let us now examine the question at hand, The Word of God does discuss events that will take place at the final judgment of all mankind, please examine the following Scriptural references: -- John 5:28-30

28        Marvel not at this: for the hour cometh, in which all that are in the tombs shall hear his voice,

29        and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of judgment.

30        I can of myself do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is righteous; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. ASV

Acts 24:25

"And as he reasoned of righteousness, and self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was terrified, and answered, Go thy way for this time; and when I have a convenient season, I will call thee unto me." ASV

Heb 10:26-27

26        For if we sin willfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more a sacrifice for sins,

27        but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and a fierceness of fire which shall devour the adversary

2 Peter 3:7

"But the heavens that now are, and the earth, by the same word have been stored up for fire, being reserved against the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men." ASV

Rev 20:12-15

12        And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne; and books were opened: and another book was opened, which is (the book) of life: and the dead were judged out of the things which were written in the books, according to their works.

13        and the sea gave up the dead that were in it; and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.

14        and death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death, (even) the lake of fire.

15        And if any was not found written in the book of life, he was cast into the lake of fire. ASV

Thank you for your question, I hope that we were helpful -- editor.

BIBLE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS #3

QUESTION SUBMITTED:

I notice that the church of Christ people take the Lord's Supper each first day (SUNDAY) of the week. Why do you do that when other churches take it once or twice a year?

ANSWER TO QUESTION:

Answer by the editor:

Many people do take the Lord's Supper at different times during the month or the year and we are aware of that. Yet we do not follow the philosophy of other religions, we follow the teaching of the Bible with regard to the Lord's Supper as well as other activities that we engage in.

We are always concerned about the instructions of the Lord with regard to any activity that we involve ourselves in as a church and even as individual Christian when we are not assembled together. The matter of our electing to meet each first day of the week and take the Lord's Supper at that time is not due to custom or tradition. Rather we partake of the Lord's Supper each first day of the week because:

1.                  The disciples of the Lord took of the Lord's Supper on the first day of each week according to Acts 20:6-7,

6          And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days, where we tarried seven days.

7                    And upon the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break

bread, Paul discoursed with them, intending to depart on the morrow; and prolonged his speech until midnight. ASV

EDITOR'S COMMENTS ON THE TEXT:

Since the apostle Paul approved of the first day of the week (i.e., SUNDAY) by his participation in the service, it is apparent that the day for observing the Lord's Supper is the first day of the week. From this action by Paul we have an APOSTOLIC EXAMPLE THAT ESTABLISHES THAT DAY AS THE SACIPTURAL TIME FOR THE SUPPER.

Further, since the first day of the week comes about each week we observe the Lord's Supper each one of them in order to remain consistent with the approved example set by Paul. To further establish this as an acceptable procedure for establishing Biblical authority we refer the reader to the nature of the Jewish understanding of keeping the Sabbath day each week under the Law of Moses. There is no statement to the Jews that reads, "KEEP ALL OF THE SABBATHS", the only instruction they had was "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy" (i.e. one of the Ten Commandments -- Exodus 20:8). Yet, even though they had no direct command to keep it each week they understood the command, so should we -- don't you think?

We appreciate your questions. If you have a Bible question let us know.

EDITOR’S NOTE:

            Hope to keep you reading as we explore questions and answers along with other important matters pertaining to Biblical understanding. We can all learn something else if we will determine to do so – glclair@sbcglobal.net

See the website at considermagazine.com

Email us at glclair@sbcglobal.net

Email us at glclair@aol.com

SEE YOU NEXT MONTH IF POSSIBLE ----

SELECTED ISSUES FROM THE PAST

CONSIDER MAGAZINE

Published quarterly by the Clair family

2977 Carlsbad

Hilliard, Ohio 43026

Editor: Garreth L. Clair

Phone: [614] 850-7252

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January 2007

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All issues of Consider Magazine

published by the editor from its beginning

CONSIDER THIS:

            The editor has been actively preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ for a number of years now; having begun to preach in the city of Chicago, IL in 1959-1960.  We will continue to present the message from God to our readers so long as we are able to do so. In our attempts to publish the truth via local church bulletins in the past, some of them have not been very appealing and some of them have not been well edited, with this effort, we hope for improvement, please bear with us. Consider magazine has been published irregular for the past 25 years.

THE MASTER TEACHER

The great work of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ is a great task that rests upon each generation of Christians. The Bible is clear about our responsibilities to go into the entire world and  preach  the  gospel, cf.,  Matthew 28:18-20.

18And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

19Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

20Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen" (KJV).

            The passage here in Matthew's gospel tells us that we are to "go into all the world…" it is my considered opinion that this authorizes each congregation of God's people to evangelize the world to the extent of their ability. There is nothing in the verses that indicate that one congregation is any more responsible to do this work than another is. All congregations are equally instructed to do this work.

            The passage also teaches us that "baptizing" of the sinners is our assignment too. Many religious people today do not consider baptism important to salvation from sin but here in the great commission Jesus encourages his disciples to practice this as they "go into all the world…" preaching the gospel.

            The passage also instructs disciples to "teach" those that have been baptized; apparently, this is in reference to the process of edification that is a part of each congregation's work. There is a great deal of misinformation available from religious leaders about the work of the church in the matter of evangelism, these three facts gleaned from Matthew 28:18-20 will assist us to a better understanding.  --- glclair@aol.com

PROBLEMS OF YOUTH            

There is no time like the time of youth in the lifetime of the Christian; each Christian ought to extend themselves in an effort to grow in knowledge and wisdom in God's service. Some of the wise thoughts revealed via the Written Word encourage young people to get started in service to God early and grow with deliberation and patience, submitting to the wise instruction of the hoary headed ones, according to God's instructions. Please note the following:

I.          SEEK GOD EARLY IN LIFE - Ecclesiastes 12:1: "Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, Before the difficult days come, And the years draw near when you say, "I have no pleasure in them" NKJV.Proverbs 20:29,  "The glory of young men is their strength, And the splendor of old men is their gray head" NKJV. 

COMMENTS:

The wise man, Solomon, surely knew of the benefits of early commitment to God. God can use the strength and enthusiasm of the young, youth is the most expedient time in life for the individual to commit to God's service. Dedication to the principles of righteousness early in ones life does not guarantee accuracy in thought or action, but the young are adaptable, they are susceptible to change, they are willing to learn. The willingness of the young to learn will surely enable many of them to mature in soundness and fidelity to the faith.

II.        THE APOSTLE PAUL'S INSTRUCTION TO YOUNG TIMOTHY

2 Timothy 2:14-26: ”14 Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers. 15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 16 But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness. 17 And their message will spread like cancer. Hymenaeus and Philetus are of this sort, 18 who have strayed concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past; and they overthrow the faith of some. 19 Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: "The Lord knows those who are His," and, "Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity." 20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. 21 Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor ,sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.22 Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 23 But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. 24 And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, 25 in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, 26 and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will"  

COMMENTS:

Several items of instruction are directed to the young, also to others:     

Not to strive about words to no profit - verse 14      Seek God's approval in thought and action - verse 15.    Correctly, apply the teaching from God - verse 15     Shun profane and idle babblings - verse 16.      Be confident, the Lord knows you are faithful - Verse 19.     Know this, everyone who claims to be worthy are not necessarily so, some are of clay value not of gold or silver value  - verse 20.      Some are valuable to God in His service - verse 21.      Do not allow your youthful passions to lead you astray, maintain faithfulness - verse 22.     Avoid foolish and ignorant disputes -  verse 23.      Do not become involved in quarrels with others - verse 24.      Confront those that are in opposition to God's teaching in a kind way, seeking their restoration - verse 25.

CONSIDER THIS:           

These instructions are worthy admonitions to all Christians, yet in this context Paul is dealing with Timothy and his work as a teacher and faithful young Christian. Young people (both male and female) consider the instruction and gauge your lives according to sound instruction, instruction like these revealed to us in 2 Timothy.

III.       HEED THE WISE INSTRUCTION FROM RELIABLE AND FAITHFUL MEN:

1.         AGE AND EXPERIENCE ARE A VALUABLE SOURCE OF INFORMATION FOR THE YOUNG CHRISTIAN:     

Leviticus 19:32, ”32 'You shall rise before the gray headed and honor the presence of an old man, and fear your God: I am the LORD"      Proverbs 16:31, ”31 The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, If it is found in the way of righteousness"     2 Timothy 2:2, “2 And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. NKJV 

2.         INSTRUCTION FOR GROWTH FROM THE APOSTLE PAUL TO THE GROWING CHRISTIAN:     

Romans 16:17-19, ”Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. 18 For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple. 19 For your obedience has become known to all.Therefore I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil" NKJV.Ø      1 Corinthians 3:10-11, ”10 According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. 11 For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ"Ø      2 Corinthians 10:12, ”12 For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise"  

IV.       THE WHOLE OF MAN (Including the young) - Ecclesiastes 12:9-14, ”9 And moreover, because the Preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yes, he pondered and sought out and set in order many proverbs. 10 The Preacher sought to find acceptable words; and what was written was upright -- words of truth. 11 The words of the wise are like goads, and the words of scholars are like well-driven nails, given by one Shepherd. 12 And further, my son, be admonished by these. Of making many books, there is no end, and much study is wearisome to the flesh. 13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is, man's all. 14 For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, Whether good or evil"  

CONSIDER THIS:             

The instructions given by God that we have discussed, have been presented to encourage the young (both young men and young women), to consider well God's instructions. The editor, while writing this article has considered himself while young, middle aged, and growing older. The thoughts are best digested by the individual while they are young for a number of reasons, as we have noted:

1.         Young people have sharp minds and are able to adjust their affections and commitments          as they are shown the reasonableness of God's requirements on their lives.

2.            The physical stamina contributes to the endurance of our young people (i.e., teachers, preachers, and young Christian ladies), as the young Christian exhibits their dedication and resolve to continue in the "narrow way" – cf., Matthew 7:13-14, "The Narrow Way" (Also –Luke 13:24): "> Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.  >  Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it" 

CONSIDER THIS:             

It is difficult to understand the different level of participation, continuation in difficult tasks, interaction with other faithful ones outside the assemblies, and generally laboring in the work of the Lord for the young preacher verses the older preacher. It may be difficult for the young person to visualize this matter but age makes a difference in strength and stamina for  service in God's vineyard. We understand that this is so after we have attained to an advanced age but while we are still young we do not dwell very much on the realities of this subject, "age" verses the "strength of youth." For the young Christians, we encourage continued faithfulness and untiring dedication and untiring service in the Lord's work. Always be steadfast in faithful service standing always for the 'TRUTH. "There will come a time in your future, when "… the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you say, "I have no pleasure in them" NKJV - (Ecclesiastes 12:1b).

 CONSIDER MAGAZINE

2 Timothy 2:7, "Consider what I say; for the Lord shall give thee understanding in all things" (ASV).

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July 2003

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--- SIN ---

A constant problem faced by everyone is the problem of sin. Sin is the great separator between God and man today as in all ages past. The reality of sin plagues the man that never attends religious services as well as those that do attend religious services. To this great problem that mankind continues to confront in daily life we direct the following comments.

DEFINING SIN:

SIN (Heb. hatta'a; Grk. hamartia, a falling away from or missing the right path). Also numerous other Heb. words.

General. The underlying idea of sin is that of law and of a lawgiver. The lawgiver is God. Hence sin is everything in the disposition and purpose and conduct of God's moral creatures that is contrary to the expressed will of God (Rom 3:20; 4:15; 7:7; James 4:12,17).

The sinfulness of sin lies in the fact that it is against God, even when the wrong we do is to others or ourselves (Gen 39:9; Ps 51:4).

The being and law of God are perfectly harmonious, for "God is love." The sum of all the commandments likewise is love; sin in its nature is egotism and selfishness. Self is put in the place of God (Rom 15:3; 1 Cor 13:5; 2 Tim 3:2,4; 2 Thess 2:3-4). Selfishness (not pure self-love, or the exaggeration of it, but in opposition to it) is at the bottom of all disobedience, and it becomes hostility to God when it collides with His law.

All sin therefore has a positive character, and the distinction between sins of commission and those of omission is only on the surface. In both cases, sin is

actual disobedience (see Matt 23:23).

(From The New Unger's Bible Dictionary. Originally published by Moody Press of Chicago, Illinois. Copyright (c) 1988.)

COMMENTARY (glc):

People in the world becomes amenable to the law of Christ whenever they reach the age of accountability. Now, the age of accountability may be different in people, some people who are born are born with brain damage so that they never in life will be able to make a choice between good and evil, still others that may be born with the ability to choose between good and evil are damaged in auto accidents, etc., so that they too, are unable to choose between good and evil --- all such people will not be amenable to God. Only those that develop normally with normal intellect in place will attain to the age of accountability (i.e., having the ability to choose good and/or evil whenever the choice is made available to them). The individual that chooses to disobey God will be considered by God as transgressor (i.e., sinner), cf., James 2:8-12,

8Howbeit if ye fulfill the royal law, according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself, ye do well:

9but if ye have respect of persons, ye commit sin, being convicted by the law as transgressors.

10For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one (point), he is become guilty of all.

11For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou dost not commit adultery, but killest, thou art become a transgressor of the law.

12So speak ye, and so do, as men that are to be judged by a law of liberty. ASV

……………………………….

CONSIDER THIS:

Here in James 2:8-12 the subject of sin (i.e., transgression) is considered from both the Law of Moses and according to the "law of liberty" (i.e., the law of Christ). In both cases one is considered to be sinful even though he/she may keep part of the commands but fail to keep other parts of the same law. In this contexts we can surely see, man's sin will separate him from the God that will eventually be his judge even though he might keep some law faithfully. The important point in this context is, man cannot keep part of the law of God and fail to keep other parts of the same law and expect God to reward him. Again, man cannot consider the good deeds he does as more important than keeping all of God's law --- cf., 1 Samuel 15.

KEEPING SOME OF GOD'S COMMANDS

            There are far too many people today involved in religious activity that are not obeying God's commands and they know that they are not. Those that keep some of God's commands are weighing their good deeds against their failures and are accepting their definition of righteousness based upon their partial obedience to God's law and simply ignoring their failures to obey God in many other areas. This self standard of determining righteousness is completely unacceptable to God --- cf., Colossians 3:24-4:1,

24knowing that from the Lord ye shall receive the recompense of the inheritance: ye serve the Lord Christ.

25For he that doeth wrong shall receive again for the wrong that he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. ASV

Matthew 6:24,

24No man can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. ASV

Consequently, no person can partially serve God and please Him. To serve God correctly let us determine to do all that God requires of us. God requires of us first that we become converted, converted from the kingdom of darkness (i.e., Satan's kingdom) into the kingdom of God's dear Son (Colossians 1:13-24). Secondly, once we have been converted to Christ's Church we then need to continue to serve God faithfully for the rest of our lives, this faithfulness is not to be a pick-and-choose type of faithfulness but an acceptance of all God's instructions continually --- cf., Revelation 2:10,

10 Fear not the things which thou art about to suffer: behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days. Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life.

2 Timothy 4:6-8

6 For I am already being offered, and the time of my departure is come.

7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith:

8 henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give to me at that day; and not to me only, but also to all them that have loved his appearing. A

SOME OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

In our lives we develop a fondness for many things, some of the things that I have found to be encouraging, pleasant, and consoling in life are:

Opportunities to discuss the gospel of Christ with other people who do not know God

Honesty

Little children

A many colored Sunset in the Western sky.

Purity

True friendship

Family get-to-gathers (including church family).

A clear, mountain, brook that is filled with fish.

Ohio State football

Kentucky basketball

Preachers and elders that have continued to be faithful to the Word of God until the end

Zeal in the elderly for the things of God

The singing of the faithful

The prayers of the faithful … more later!

DEALING WITH PROBLEM (1)

LESSON ONE --- GOD'S PEOPLE MUST DEAL WITH THE PROBLEMS LIFE

TEXT:

1 Corinthians 1:10, "Now I beseech you, brethren, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing and (that) there be no divisions among you; but (that) ye be perfected together in the same mind and in the same judgment." ASV

INTRODUCTION:

There are many problems that God's People must deal with in life. The Bible is filled with examples. Corinth had a problem with a fornicator. They also had problems over lawsuits with each other, misuse of the Lord's Supper, problems over men, and several other issues. The seven churches of Asia had problems with immorality, false teaching, compromise, laziness, and a lack of zeal. In our study today, we will see how the word of God teaches us to deal with problems.

PROBLEMS BETWEEN BRETHREN:

In many matters, the right attitude will solve the problem

Philippians 2:4 --- 4 not looking each of you to his own things, but each of you also to the things of others. ASV

Matthew 7:12 --- 12 All things therefore whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, even so do ye also unto them: for this is the law and the prophets. ASV

Matthew 5:39-48 --- 39 but I say unto you, resist not him that is evil: but whosoever smites thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. > 40 And if any man would go to law with thee, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also. > 41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go one mile, go with him two. > 42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. > 43 Ye have heard that it was said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy:  > 44 but I say unto you, love your enemies, and pray for them that persecute you;  > 45 that ye may be sons of your Father who is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sendeth rain on the just and the unjust. > 46 For if ye love them that love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? > 47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more (than others?) do not even the Gentiles the same? > 48 Ye therefore shall be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect. ASV

1 Corinthians 6:7 --- 7 Nay, already it is altogether a defect in you, that ye have lawsuits one with another. Why not rather take wrong? why not rather be defrauded?

In personal matters where sin is involved God has solutions

Matthew 18:15-18 --- 15 And if thy brother sin against thee, go, show him his fault between thee and him alone: if he hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. > 16 But if he hear (thee) not, take with thee one or two more, that at the mouth of two witnesses or three every word may be established. > 17 And if he refuse to hear them, tell it unto the church: and if he refuse to hear the church also, let him be unto thee as the Gentile and the publican. > 18 Verily I say unto you, what things soever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and what things soever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. ASV

1 Corinthians 6:1-7 --- 1 Dare any of you, having a matter against his neighbor, go to law before the unrighteous, and not before the saints? > 2 Or know ye not that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world is judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? > 3 Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more, things that pertain to this life? > 4 If then ye have to judge things pertaining to this life, do ye set them to judge who are of no account in the church? > 5 I say (this) to move you to shame. What, cannot there be (found) among

you one wise man who shall be able to decide between his brethren, > 6 but brother goeth to law with brother, and that before unbelievers? > 7 Nay, already it is altogether a defect in you, that ye have lawsuits one with another. Why not rather take wrong? why not rather be defrauded? ASV

PROBLEMS GOD ALONE SEES 

Acts 5:1-9,

1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,

2 and kept back (part) of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.

3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thy heart to lie to the Holy Spirit, and to keep back (part) of the price of the land?

4 While it remained, did it not remain thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thy power? How is it that thou hast conceived this thing in thy heart? thou has not lied unto men, but unto God.

5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down and gave up the ghost: and great fear came upon all that heard it.

6 And the young men arose and wrapped him round, and they carried him out and buried him.

7 And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in.

8 And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much. And she said, Yea, for so much.

9 But Peter (said) unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to try the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them that have buried thy husband are at the door, and they shall carry thee out. ASV

God saw the problem with Ananias and Sappira, and He solved the problem.

Some sins are evident, others are hidden. We should not worry about what others will get away with: 1 Timothy 5:19-25 --- 19 Against an elder receive not an accusation, except at (the mouth of) two or three witnesses. > 20 Them that sin reprove in the sight of all, that the rest also may be in fear. > 21 I charge (thee) in the sight of God, and Christ Jesus, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing by partiality. > 22 Lay hands hastily on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure. > 23 Be no longer a drinker of water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities. > 24 Some men's sins are evident, going before unto judgment; and some men also they follow after. > 25 In like manner also there are good works that are evident; and such as are otherwise cannot be hid. ASV --- God is just!

PROBLEMS OF PREJUDICE AND UNFAIRNESS:

Acts 6:1-4,

1 Now in these days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a murmuring of the Grecian Jews against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.

2 And the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, it is not fit that we should forsake the word of God, and serve tables.

3 Look ye out therefore, brethren, from among you seven men of good report, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.

4 But we will continue steadfastly in prayer, and in the ministry of the word. ASV

Acts 10:34-35,

34 And Peter opened his mouth and said; Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

35 but in every nation he that fears him, and works righteousness, is acceptable to him. ASV

Romans 2:11,

11 for there is no respect of persons with God. ASV

There was perceived unfairness in the Jerusalem church. It was rectified to the best of their ability.

There will be unfairness on occasion in a local church of any size. This may be due to a lack of knowledge, concern, or judgment.

PERSECUTION:

Acts 8:1-12,

1 And Saul was consenting unto his death. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church which was in Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.

2 And devout men buried Stephen, and made great lamentation over him.

3 But Saul laid waste the church, entering into every house, and dragging men and women committed them to prison.

4 They therefore that were scattered abroad, went about preaching the word.

5 And Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and proclaimed unto them the Christ.

6 And the multitudes gave heed with one accord

unto the things that were spoken by Philip, when they heard, and saw the signs which he did.

7 For (from) many of those that had unclean spirits, they came out, crying with a loud voice: and many that were palsied, and that were lame, were healed.

8 And there was much joy in that city.

9 But there was a certain man, Simon by name, who beforetime in the city used sorcery, and amazed the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:

10 to whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is that power of God which is called Great.

11 And they gave heed to him, because that of long time he had amazed them with his sorceries.

12 But when they believed Philip preaching good tidings concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. ASV

Stephen was stoned to death.

Paul continued severely persecuting Christians.

Some had to flee Jerusalem.

Their faith in God remained strong.

FALSE TEACHING CAME TO ANTIOCH:

Acts 15:1,

1 And certain men came down from Judaea and taught the brethren, (saying), Except ye be circumcised after the custom of Moses, ye cannot be saved. ASV

Some came from Jerusalem to Antioch and taught circumcision was essential.

They stirred strife.

Paul and Barnabas stood for the truth, and worked to solve the problem.

Those teaching false doctrine were commanded to stop, truth was upheld, and brethren were encouraged Acts 15:23-29, --- 23 and they wrote (thus) by them, The apostles and the elders, brethren, unto the brethren who are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, greeting: > 24 Forasmuch as we have heard that certain who went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls; to whom we gave no commandment; > 25 it seemed good unto us, having come to one accord, to choose out men and send them unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, > 26 men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. > 27 We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who themselves also shall tell you the same things by word of mouth. > 28 For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: > 29 that ye abstain from things sacrificed to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication; from which if ye keep yourselves, it shall be well with you. Fare ye well. ASV

Galatians 2:1-5, --- 1 Then after the space of fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus also with me. > 2 And I went up by revelation; and I laid before them the gospel which I preach among the Gentiles but privately before them who were of repute, lest by any means I should be running, or had run, in vain. > 3 But not even Titus who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised: > 4 and that because of the false brethren privily brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: > 5 to whom we gave place in the way of subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you. ASV

PROBLEM OF DISPUTE BETWEEN BRETHREN IN JUDGMENT:

Acts 15:36-41,

36 And after some days Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us return now and visit the brethren in every city wherein we proclaimed the word of the Lord, (and see) how they fare.

37 And Barnabas was minded to take with them John also, who was called Mark.

38 But Paul thought not good to take with them him who withdrew from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.

39 And there arose a sharp contention, so that they parted asunder one from the other, and Barnabas took Mark with him, and sailed away unto Cyprus;

40 but Paul choose Silas, and went forth, being commended by the brethren to the grace of the Lord.

41 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches. ASV

Matter of judgment.

It could not be resolved to everyone's satisfaction.

They all continued working for the Lord, in time the Lord resolved the problem.   2 Timothy 4:11 --- 11 Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee; for he is useful to me for ministering.

CONCLUSION:

We need the wisdom to see the difference between matters of judgment and matters of sin. We need to see the open sins, false teaching, and those hidden sins, and realize they often will be dealt with differently. Remember this, God has the power to work out that which we lack ability to resolve. We have a just God, and His word is just. We need faith in Him and His word.

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DEALING WITH PROBLEMS (2)

LESSON TWO --- HOME AND FAMILY

TEXT:            

Genesis 2:20-24 --- 20And the man gave names to all cattle, and to the birds of the heavens, and to every beast of the field; but for man there was not found a help meet for him. > 21And Jehovah God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof: > 22and the rib, which Jehovah God had taken from the man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. > 23And the man said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. > 24Therefore shall a man leave his father and his

mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. ASV

INTRODUCTION:

BODY:

I.          PROBLEMS IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY:

1.         Problems do arise in marriage but there can be only one reason for scriptural divorce, Matthew 5:32, --- 32 but I say unto you, that every one that putteth away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, maketh her an adulteress: and whosoever shall marry her when she is put away committeth adultery. ASV

Matthew 19:9 --- 9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and he that marrieth her when she is put away committeth adultery. ASV

2.         Surely, no problem is so great between two Christians that it cannot be worked out. Christians will put forth every effort to solve problems in their marriage without separation and divorce.

II.        PROBLEMS WITH PERSONAL FINANCES

1.         Understand the Christian's responsibility, Mark 12:17 --- 17And Jesus said unto them, Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and unto God the things that are God's. And they marveled greatly at him. ASV

2.         Christians ought to provide for their own family, 1 Timothy 5:8 --- 8But if any provideth not for his own, and specially his own household, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever.ASV

3.         Christians will not forget the financial needs of the church, 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 --- 1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I gave order to the churches of Galatia, so also do ye. > 2 Upon the first day of the week let each one of you lay by him in store, as he may prosper, that no collections be made when I come. ASV

4.         Christians will depend on God's help, Matthew 6:28-33 --- 28And why are ye anxious concerning raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: > 29yet I say unto you, that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. > 30But if God doth so clothe the grass of the field, which to-day is, and to-morrow is cast into the oven, (shall he) not much more (clothe) you, O ye of little faith? > 31Be not therefore anxious, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? > 32For after all these things do the Gentiles seek; for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. > 33But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. ASV

III.       PROBLEMS WITH CHILDREN (Discipline problems)

1.                  Seek God's will first, Matthew 6:33 --- 33 But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. ASV

2.                  Children and fathers responsibility, Ephesians 6:1-4 --- 1Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. > 2Honor thy father and mother (which is the first commandment with promise), > 3that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. > 4And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but nurture them in the chastening and admonition of the Lord. ASV

3.         Grandmothers and mothers should possess great faith, and teach their children to be faithful, 2 Timothy 1:2-5 --- 2To Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. > 3I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers in a pure conscience, how unceasing is my remembrance of thee in my supplications, night and day > 4longing to see thee, remembering thy tears, that I may be filled with joy; > 5having been reminded of the unfeigned faith that is in thee; which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and, I am persuaded, in thee also. ASV

IV.       PRIORITY PROBLEMS (Putting God first is difficult at times):

1.                  Yet, God does require first place in our lives, Matthew 6:33 --- 33 But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. ASV

2.         The world offers many distractions to us as we seek to serve God; many of the world's allurements are not sinful in and of themselves yet if we are not careful we will put worldly things before spiritual ones. To put worldly things before godly things (i.e., spiritual things) is a violation of the teaching in Matthew 6:33 and other places in the Bible.

V.        CONFLICT IN EXERCISING DISCIPLINE (no agreement on procedure

1.         Sometimes mom and dad do not agree on the method of discipline for the children, in    such a situation both parents ought to consult God's standard (i.e., the Written Word of God - BIBLE) for guidance.

2.         God's standard for discipline both in the church and in the family unit is always correct.

CONCLUSION:

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DEALING WITH PROBLEMS (3)

LESSON THREE … PERSONAL PROBLEMS:

TEXT:

1 Timothy 6:6-8 --- 6But godliness with contentment is great gain: > 7for we brought nothing into the world, for neither can we carry anything out; > 8but having food and covering we shall be therewith content. ASV

INTRODUCTION:

BODY:

I.          PROBLEMS WITH SELF CONTROL SELF-CONTROL

SELF-CONTROL (Grk. egkrateia); "temperance," KJV. The virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, especially his sensual appetites (Acts 24:25; 1 Cor 9:25; Gal 5:23; 2 Peter 1:6, where it is named as one of the Christian graces). (From the New Unger's Bible Dictionary. Originally published by Moody Press of Chicago, Illinois. Copyright (c) 1988.)

God encourages the Christian to possess self-control (i.e., temperance)

Galatians 5:23 --- 23 meekness, self-control;

against such there is no law. ASV

2 Peter 1:6 --- 6 and in (your) knowledge self-control; and in (your) self-control patience; and in (your) patience godliness;

II.        PROBLEMS WITH PRIDE

OT:208 (Strong's number) --- zadown (zaw-done'); from OT:2102; arrogance: KJV-presumptuously, pride, proud (man). (Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright (c) 1994, Biblesoft and International Bible Translators, Inc.)

God is never pleased with pride as the following verses indicate. Therefore, it is imperative that the Christian cast pride far from himself. This can be accomplished through prayer and gaining control of self (.e., developing self-control).

Proverbs 11:2 --- 2 When pride cometh, then cometh shame; But with the lowly is wisdom. ASV

Proverbs 13:10 --- 10 By pride cometh only contention; But with the well-advised is wisdom.

Proverbs 16:18 --- 18 Pride (goeth) before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall. ASV

Mark 7:22 --- 22 covetings, wickednesses, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, railing, pride, foolishness: ASV

III.       PROBLEMS WITH INABILITY TO INTERACT WITH OTHERS

1.         The very concept of "neighbor" carries with it the implication that Christians are to seek to cultivate communication with them - cf.,  James 2:8 --- 8 Howbeit if ye fulfill the royal law, according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself, ye do well: ASV

Definition --- NEIGHBOR (Heb. rea`, "associate"; Grk. plesion, "near"). Generally a person near, one connected by bonds of humanity, and whom natural regard would lead to treat with kindness and equity (Ex 20:16-17; Deut 5:20). The construction placed upon "neighbor" (Lev 19:18) was that of friend as opposed to enemy; therefore, it was held that to hate one's enemy was not forbidden by the law (Matt 5:43). But Jesus, in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29-37), taught that all the world was neighbors. Moreover, the Pharisees used the term neighbor in an exclusive sense, namely, one who observed the law in the strictest manner. They called themselves neighbors; therefore the question, "Who is my neighbor?" (From The New Unger's Bible Dictionary. Originally published by Moody Press of Chicago, Illinois. Copyright (c) 1988.)

2.         If we improve our understanding of God's will for us as relates to other people surely our interaction with others will improve.

IV.       PROBLEMS OF EDUCATION:

The problem of educational gaps between people are not nearly as great today as they were in the early years of this past century. Yet, some problems are currently created due to educational gaps between people. To this subject I suggest that the more knowledgeable people give place (temporarily), to those that need to learn. Give place with an intention of teaching the unlearned

Romans 15:1-2 --- 1Now we that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. > 2Let each one of us please his neighbor for that which is good, unto edifying. ASV

Psalms  35:10 --- 10All my bones shall say, Jehovah, who is like unto thee, who deliverest the poor from him that is too strong for him, yea, the poor and the needy from him that robbeth him? ASV

CONCLUSION:

DEALING WITH PROBLEMS (4)

LESSON FOUR --- PROBLEMS WITH BRETHREN IN THE CHURCH

I.          DEALING WITH FALSE TEACHERS

     Some false teachers are deceivers, they do not admit to being false teachers. Such are the worst of all false teachers --- Matthew 7:15, "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves" (ASV).

     Some false teachers seek to become great leaders and through deceit are sometimes successful --- 2 Corinthians 11:13-14, "For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, fashioning themselves into apostles of Christ. > And no marvel; for even Satan fashioneth himself into an angel of light" (ASV).

    Some false teachers pretend to be our brethren, thus finding it easier to deceive the very elect ---2 Corinthians 11:26, "(in) journeyings often, (in) perils of rivers, (in) perils of robbers, (in) perils from (my) countrymen, (in) perils from the Gentiles, (in) perils in the city, (in) perils in the wilderness, (in) perils in the sea, (in) perils among false brethren" (ASV).

     Some false teachers will present doctrines that are destructive to unity and peace among God's faithful --- 2 Peter 2:1, "But there arose false prophets also among the people, as among you also there shall be false teachers, who shall privily bring in destructive heresies, denying even the Master that bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction" (ASV).

Solution to this problem:

     Romans 16:17, "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them that are causing the divisions and occasions of stumbling, contrary to the doctrine which ye learned: and turn away from them" (ASV).

    2 Timothy 3:5, "holding a form of godliness, but having denied the power therefore. From these also turn away (ASV).

     Titus 1:13-16, > "13 This testimony is true. For which cause reprove them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith, > 14 not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men who turn away from the truth. > 15 To the pure all things are pure: but to them that are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but both their mind and their conscience are defiled. > 16 They profess that they know God; but by their works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate" (ASV).

II.        DEALING WITH WAYWARD MEMBERS (i.e., Disciplining problems)

            The Bible presents a solution to this problem in two parts, please note:

     To our brethren that fall, we are to exhaust every possibility to restore them back to the church family --- Galatians 6:1, "Brethren, even if a man be overtaken in any trespass, ye who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; looking to thyself, lest thou also be tempted" (ASV).

    We ought to exert our faithfulness to include the weak and the untaught, we ought to bear with them as long as possible as we attempt to restore them --- Galatians 6:2, "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ" (ASV).

     See the previous comments at Galatians 6:2 --- Romans 15:1, " Now we that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves" (ASV).

Whenever all efforts fail to restore the fallen (i.e., the backslider), we are to proceed further.

The method of procedure for correction of the backsliding Christian is clearly revealed in the following four Scripture references:

Matthew 18:14-17, > "14 Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish. > 15 And if thy brother sin against thee, go, show him his fault between thee and him alone: if he hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. > 16 But if he hear (thee) not, take with thee one or two more, that at the mouth of two witnesses or three every word may be established. > 17 And if he refuses to hear them, tell it unto the church: and if he refuses to hear the church also, let him be unto thee as the Gentile and the publican. ASV

Titus 3:10, "A factious man after a first and second admonition refuse" (ASV).

2 Thessalonians 3:6, "Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which they received of us" (ASV).    

1 Corinthians 5:1-5, > "1 It is actually reported that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not even among the Gentiles, that one (of you) hath his father's wife. > 2 And ye are puffed up, and did not rather mourn, that he that had done this deed might be taken away from among you. > 3 For I verily, being absent in body but present in spirit, have already as though I were present judged him that hath so wrought this thing, > 4 in the name of our Lord Jesus, ye being gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus, > 5 to deliver such a one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus: (ASV).

III.       GROWTH PROBLEMS (i.e., lack of growth):

2 Peter 3:18, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him (be) the glory both now and forever. Amen. ASV

Many congregations go through periods of negative growth (i.e., they do not grow in numbers). The reasons for a lack of numerical growth may vary from place to place. Some churches are not even growing spiritually and this ought not to be. As we seek, solutions to these problems of growth let me be understood, there is a great deal about all of these subjects that I do not know but I am sure that there are some solutions. My personal views about numerical and spiritual growth follow:

1.         Numerical growth --- There are many possible causes for a failure of the church to grow in physical numbers. Indeed, there may be many solutions to this problem as well, but let me suggest that perhaps the greatest solution to this problem is:

A.                To prepare and encourage each member of the congregations to learn and do personal evangelism where there is no numerical growth.

B.                  A training program by the congregation for the purpose of teaching and demonstrating a successful approach to contacting and instructing non-Christians.

C.                 Selecting someone that has the knowledge to instruct the congregation as a whole.

D.                Select a time for the class sessions that will enable the greatest number to attend.

2.         Spiritual growth --- Spiritual growth is simpler to solve than is numerical growth. Solving a lack of spiritual growth requires good, sound, and respectable teachers. Teachers need to be qualified and need to be zealous in their personal preparation to teach classes, preach, etc.

IV.       KEEPING THE CONGREGATION SPIRITUAL (i.e., problems with spirituality --- real or imaginary):

            Romans 14:17-19, > "17for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. > 18For he that herein serveth Christ is well pleasing to God, and approved of men. > 19So then let us follow after things which make for peace, and things whereby we may edify one another. ASV

Matthew 6:33-34, > "33 But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. > 34 Be not therefore anxious for the morrow: for the morrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. ASV

1 Corinthians 3:1, "1And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, as unto babes in Christ. ASV

1 Corinthians 2:13-15, >13Which things also we speak, not in words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Spirit teacheth; combining spiritual things with spiritual (words). > 14Now the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him; and he cannot know them, because they are spiritually judged. > 15But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, and he himself is judged of no man. ASV

V.        THE LIMITS OF FELLOWSHIP (i.e., Consideration of the matter of forbearance of brethren over doctrinal issues):1.         Refer to the booklet by the editor titled, "FELLOWSHIP" (March 20, 1988 - pages 6-7and appendices).                                               --- email Garreth at glclair@aol.com

CONCLUSION:

            The study that we have completed has dealt with problems faced by the Christian from time to time in everyday life. The level of knowledge that the Christian possesses will be crucial in the solving of the problem discussed therein and other problems that may not have been specifically discussed. Nearly any problem that one will encounter may be dealt with reasonably if one is familiar with the processes that we have revealed in this study. If the editor can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact him at:

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EDITOR'S SURGERY:

The editor is continuing to recuperate from open-heart-surgery that he underwent on June 2, 2003. The doctors diagnosed the problem then immediately took steps to correct  the problem through surgery. The only option that was left to us.

This issue of the magazine is a bit late because of these developments. Most of the material was complete when I discovered the problem with my heart and so we proceeded with the publishing of this issue.

As the editor continues to recuperate from the surgery, we will occasionally let you know how things are going.

LECTURE IN ELLETTSVILLE, INDIANA:

            If the editor recuperates fast enough, plans are to deliver a lecture at the annual preacher's training session presented by the brethren in Ellettsville.

            The editor has been asked. to deliver a speech by brother and good friend, Johnie Edwards. You will remember that brother Edwards was with the church here in October, 2002 for our gospel meeting.

            For those of you that do not know of the Preacher's Training Program the following advertisement is included with this issue of "CONSIDER MAGAZINE".

Ellettsville church of Christ

303 Temperance Street

Ellettsville, Indiana 47429

812-876-2285 or 812-336-2085

2003 PREACHER TRAINING PROGRAM

JULY 21 - August 1, 2003

8 A.M. - 5 P.M. Daily

CLASSES TAUGHT BY:

Johnie Edwards --- Johnie Paul Edwards, and John Isaac Edwards

If you are serious about wanting to preach the gospel of Christ, don't miss this opportunity.

CALL THE ABOVE LISTED PHONE NUMBERS FOR DETAILED INFORMATION

Space is limited,

So please register early

CONSIDER MAGAZINE

2 Timothy 2:7, "Consider what I say; for the Lord shall give thee understanding in all things" (ASV)

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October - December 2003

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INTRODUCTION TO STUDY OF "FELLOWSHIP"

Editorial: Garreth L. Clair

The study that is included in this issue of "Consider Magazine" has been revised from material that the editor has used for the past 40+ years in discussions and sermons. The new material is considered useful for the new readers that are receiving the magazine for the first time as well as for those that have requested it throughout the history of the publication. We want to assure each one that the material has been successfully used in several studies and it has always been helpful in arriving at the "truth" about the subject.

For those of you that have a desire to purchase the booklet (8 1/2 X 11, spiral bound) let me know and I will send you as many copies as you desire for $4.95 each. We do not expect to make a profit from the sale of our material; we make it available for furthering our understanding of the important spiritual problems of our day. A list of our publications is available elsewhere in this issue of "Consider Magazine."

We continue to work with the good church that meets at 4840 Cemetery Road in Hilliard, Ohio 43026, a suburb of Columbus, Ohio. When you are in the area do call or come by and see us. Brethren, you are always welcome here at the Cemetery Road church of Christ.

F E L L O W S H I P

INTRODUCTION:

This material is presented with the hope that some may use it to aid their study of this important and problematic area. Far too many have deserted the Lord's church because they failed to understand the significance and gravity of joining others in their error. A great deal has been written about this subject but in recent years, the pens of some have been silenced. I do not know what has caused some to refrain from discussing and writing about the problems among brethren and those in denominations but the problems have not subsided. Sine the problem to Biblical fellowship remain a serious problem in many places we need to continue to study this subject as we have continued to study other important subjects. To fail to instruct this generation in Biblical fellowship will surely cause compromise with regard to "truth". 

     The compiler claims no originality for the thoughts that are presented, others have written much on this subject in former times. The material is arranged by the compiler in a fashion that is completely his own.  This is the second printing of the material, there have been some things changed and rearranged or added to in this edition of the material.

PRELIMINARY CONSIDERATIONS

     The problems associated with Biblical fellowship are many; there are many people who advocate conflicting views regarding the subject. The problem among members of the Lord's church has been compounded in recent years by problems over human institutions and the sponsoring churches. Yet, certain men have done a great deal of damage because of their writings and teaching on a number of subjects, among these have been W. Carl Ketcherside, Leroy Garrett, Ed

Fudge, Charles Holt, etc.

     During more recent times, many brethren have been overcome by the soft teaching on the subject of "Biblical fellowship". The material presented here is presented in an effort to show  what the Bible teaches on the subject. In this study we will deal with the subject in an abbreviated fashion, hoping to interest the readers in a further study of the various points discussed. We desire that others will understand the subject and pass it along to others, cf., 2 Timothy 2:2 --- "And the things which thou hast heard from me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also" (ASV).

BIBLICAL FELLOWSHIP

1 John 1:6-7,

6 If we say that we have fellowship with him and walk in the darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:

7 but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanseth us from all sin. ASV

CONSIDER THIS:

Ø      Many brethren today use the term "fellowship" to include social activities, such things as, eating together (i.e.,  fellowship rooms or halls) and playing together (play grounds, ball teams, church leagues (i.e., baseball, basketball, etc.)

Ø      Many denominational people use the word the same way, and extend the hand of fellowship, to all religious people regardless of the differences in doctrine and practice; this also includes brethren that have left sound doctrine.

Ø      Ignorance of what Biblical fellowship is and the nature and amount of religious division further show its importance in the religious word.

COMMENTARY:

I. MEANING OF THE WORD "FELLOWSHIP":

Ø      Here, we want to appeal to the Greek Lexicons to examine the meaning of the word and see how it is translated, this will tell us how the word was understood in the original usage. Please notice the following usages of the word in its contexts,

Ø      FELLOWSHIP (Greek Definitions):

A. Nouns.

1. koinonia NT:2842, (a) "communion, fellowship, sharing in common" (from        koinos, "common"), is translated "communion" in 1 Cor 10:16; Philem 6, RV, "fellowship," for KJV, "communication"; it is most frequently translated "fellowship"; (b) "that which is the outcome of fellowship, a contribution," e. g., Rom 15:26; 2 Cor 8:4. See COMMUNION, CONTRIBUTION, etc.

Note: In Eph 3:9, some mss. have koinonia, instead of oikonomia, "dispensation," RV.

2. metoche NT:3352, "partnership" (akin to No. 3, under FELLOW), is translated "fellowship" in 2 Cor 6:14. In the Sept., Ps 122:3, "Jerusalem is built as a city whose fellowship is complete." The word seems to have a more restricted sense than koinonia. Cf. the verb form in Heb 2:14.

3. koinonos NT:2844 denotes "a partaker" or "partner" (akin to No. 1); in 1 Cor 10:20 it is used with ginomai, "to become," "that ye should have communion with," RV (KJV, fellowship with). See COMPANION, PARTAKER, PARTNER.

B. Verbs.

1. koinoneo NT:2841, "to have fellowship," is so translated in Phil 4:15, RV, for KJV, "did communicate." See COMMUNICATE.

2. sunkoinoneo NT:4790, "to have fellowship with or in" (sun, "with," and No. 1), is used in Eph 5:11; Phil 4:14, RV, "ye had fellowship," for KJV, "ye did communicate"; Rev 18:4, RV, "have (no) fellowship with," for KJV, "be (not) partakers of" See COMMUNICATE, PARTAKER.

(from Vine's Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words, Copyright (c)1985, Thomas Nelson Publishers)

     FELLOWSHIP (Definition in dictionaries); The Winston Simplified Dictionary, advanced Edition, pp. 355

FELLOWSHIP, 1. association, especially of a friendly character; 2. common interest, as in fraternal orders;  3. an organization of friends, etc.

Webster's Third New International Dictionary, unabridged, pp. 836:

FELLOWSHIP, 2. "To join in fellowship or to be in communion with (a church or church member).

     FURTHER DEFINITIONS OF FELLOWSHIP BY RESPECTED AND KNOWLEDGABLE WRITERS OF THIS GENERATION:

Connie W. Adams in the Enlightener, Volume 5, Number 6, January 1970:

FELLOWSHIP --- "essentially, fellowship is a divine relationship with God out of which grows the relationship between those who share God's communion. If I am in partnership with God, and you are also, then we have a share in the same thing (fellowship).

Joe Fitch in the Hickman Mills Record, October 5, 1969:

FELLOWSHIP --- "is joint participation, partnership, partaking. Thus, "withdrawing fellowship" would be dissolving the partnership and terminating the participation together."

A. Hugh Clark in the Caprock Bulletin, Article, "fellowship":

FELLOWSHIP --- "partnership; joint participation in a common enterprise. The word is active, not passive, and does not refer to abstract states but to an individual, active participation in cooperative endeavors. We have fellowship with one another in the Lord when there is an active sharing of Christian affection, matched by an equal sharing of mutual responsibilities and a regular and faithful discharge of common obligations and duties which the relationship involves us in."

CONSIDER THIS ILLUSTRATION:

Walking in the light

Fellowship between God and man is predicated upon man walking in the light,  1 John 1:3-4; John 1:6-14

Fellowship between men is predicated upon their faithfulness (i.e., continuing to walk in the light, 1 John 1:3-7

     Consequently, then, "fellowship" as it is used in the New Testament, refers to partnership, joint-participation in spiritual things.

Fellowship with God --- 1 Corinthians 3:9,

9 For we are God's fellow-workers;  ye are God's husbandry, God's building. ASV

Fellowship with the Father  and the Son --- 1 John 1:3-7,

3 that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you also, that ye also may have fellowship with us: yea, and our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ:

4 and these things we write, that our joy may be made full.

5 And this is the message which we have heard

from him and announce unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

6 If we say that we have fellowship with him and walk in the darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:

7 but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. ASV

Fellowship with the Holy Spirit --- Philippians 2:1,

1 If there is therefore any exhortation in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any tender mercies and compassions,

Fellowship with one another in the cause of Christ ---

1 John 1:3,

3 that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you also, that ye also may have fellowship with us: yea, and our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ: ASV

Acts 2:42,

42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and the prayers. ASV

Philippians 1:5,

5 for your fellowship in furtherance of the gospel from the first day until now; ASV

F E L L O W S H I P

FURTHER CONSIDERATIONS - Part 2

     FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD, CHRIST, AND THE HOLY SPIRIT:

     FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD:

 We have fellowship with God ---

 1 John 1:3,

 3 that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you also, that ye also may have     

fellowship with us: yea, and our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ:  ASV

1 John 1:7,

7 but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. ASV

We are labors together with God ---

1 Corinthians 3:9,

9 For we are God's fellow-workers: ye are God's husbandry, God's building. ASV

2 Corinthians 6:1,

1 And working together (with him) we entreat also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain

      FELLOWSHIP WITH CHRIST: Corinthians 1:9,

9 God is faithful, through whom ye were called into the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. ASV

1 John 1:3,

3 that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you also, that ye also may have fellowship with us: yea, and our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ: ASV

Christians have fellowship in Christ's suffering ---

Philippians 3:10,

10 that I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, becoming conformed unto his death; ASV

Christians have fellowship with Christ when they walk in the light ---

1 John 1:3,

3 that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you also, that ye also may have fellowship with us: yea, and our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ: ASV

1 John 1:7,

7 but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. ASV

Ephesians 3:17,

17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; to the end that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, ASV

Christians have fellowship with Christ on the first day of each week as they partake of the communion ---

1 Corinthians 10:16,

16 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not a communion (i.e., fellowship) of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not a communion of the body of Christ? ASV

FELLOWSHIP WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT:

Philippians 2:1,

1 If there is therefore any exhortation in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any tender mercies and compassions,

All Christians have fellowship with the Holy Spirit as they continue to abide in His message (i.e., the instructions digested from the Written Word) and He continues to grow within the heart  of the Christian through acquired knowledge ---

Ephesians 3:1-7,

1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus in behalf of you Gentiles, --

2 if so be that ye have heard of the dispensation of that grace of God which was given me to you-ward;

3 how that by revelation was made known unto me the mystery, as I wrote before in few words,

4 whereby, when ye read, ye can perceive my understanding in the mystery of Christ;

5 which in other generation was not made known unto the sons of men, as it hath now been revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit;

6 (to wit), that the Gentiles are fellow-heirs, and fellow-members of the body, and fellow-partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel,

7 whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of that grace of God, which was given me according to the working of his power. ASV

Acts 2:38,

38 And Peter (said) unto them, Repent ye, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ unto the remission of your sins; and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ASV

Acts 5:32,

32 And we are witnesses of these things; and (so is) the Holy Spirit, whom God hath given to them that obey him. ASV

NOTE --- See the author's booklet on the

HOLY SPIRIT, second edition, and pp. 19.

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TWELVE THINGS THAT PAUL TAUGHT

Garreth L. Clair

TEXT:

Galatians 1:8

"But though we, or an angel from heaven, should preach unto you any gospel other than that which we preached unto you, let him be anathema." ASV

INTRODUCTION:

This verse of Scripture destroys the contention by some that anything one teaches that comes from the Bible is acceptable in religion.  We must all teach the same gospel that Paul preached or we will be anathema.  This is why there is one plan of salvation, one form of worship, one name to wear, and one organizational structure to the church.

SOME THINGS THAT PAUL TAUGHT verses

THINGS THAT HE DID NOT TEACH:

1.                  Paul taught the unity of all believers:

1 Corinthians 1:10,

"Now I beseech you, brethren, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing and (that) there be no divisions among you; but (that) ye be perfected together in the same mind and in the same judgment." ASV

He did not teach, "You go to your church and I will go to mine."

2.                  Paul taught that human names and schism is sinful:

1 Corinthians 3:4-6,

4          For when one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not men?

5          What then is Apollos? and what is Paul? Ministers through whom ye believed; and each as the Lord gave to him.

6          I planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. ASV

He did not teach, "There is nothing in a name."

3.                  Paul taught that baptism is essential to salvation:

Galatians 3:27,

"For as many of you as were baptized into Christ did put on Christ." ASV

He did not teach baptism is non-essential.

4.                  Paul taught that a Christian may fall from grace:

Galatians 5:4,

"Ye are severed from Christ, ye would be justified by the law; ye are fallen away from grace." ASV

He did not teach, "It is impossible for a child of God to fall from grace.

5.                  Paul taught that baptism is a burial and a resurrection in water:

Romans 6:3-5,

3          Or are ye ignorant that all we who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?

4          We were buried therefore with him through baptism unto death: that like as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in newness of life.

5          For if we have become united with (him) in the likeness of his death, we shall be also (in the likeness) of his resurrection; ASV

He did not teach that baptism is sprinkling, pouring water upon, or immersion.

6.                  Christ is the only mediator between God and man:

1 Timothy 2:5,

"For there is one God, one mediator also between God and men, (himself) man, Christ Jesus,"

He did not teach there are many mediators (i.e., priests, Mary the mother of Jesus, Canonized Saints, etc.),

7.                  Paul taught that all teachers should be taught sound doctrine from sound teachers:

2 Timothy 2:2,

"And the things which thou hast heard from me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also." ASV

He did not teach you believe whatever you want and let others believe whatever they want to believe.

8.                  Paul taught, by example that the Lord's Supper ought to be taken each first day of the week:

Acts 20:6-7,

6          And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days, where we tarried seven days.

7          And upon the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul discoursed with them, intending to depart on the morrow; and prolonged his speech until midnight. ASV

He did not teach, "Take the Lord's Supper whenever you want."

9.                  Paul taught that being faithful to Divine instruction was important:

2 Timothy 4:5-7,

5          But be thou sober in all things, suffer hardship, do the work of an evangelist, and fulfill thy ministry.

6          For I am already being offered, and the time of my departure is come.

7          I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith:

He did not teach that it does not

matter what one does after becoming

a Christian; their salvation is still

secure, a false doctrine of the Calvinist persuasion.

10.              Paul taught that each congregation ought to have elders:

He made it adequately clear that a plurality of men ought to meet the Divine qualifications that he received from God and wrote to Timothy {1 Timothy 3:1-7} and to Titus {Titus 1:5-9}.

He did not teach that no one could ever qualify for the office.

That the pastor is in charge as our denominational neighbors teach.

That a group of bishops is to oversee a city or state, etc.

11.              Paul taught that there was a heaven for the righteous and a hell for the wicked:

1 Corinthians 15:50-58,

50        Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.

51        Behold, I tell you a mystery: We all shall not sleep, but we shall all be changed,

52        in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

53        For this corruptible must put on incorruption and this mortal must put on immortality.

54        But when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

55        O death, where is thy victory? O death, where is thy sting?

56        The sting of death is sin; and the power of sin is the law:

57        but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

58        Wherefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch, as ye know that your labor is not vain in the Lord.  ASV

He did not teach that there is no hell.

He did not teach that this earth was heaven and that when it is gone all is gone.

12.              Paul taught that the greatest characteristic that man may possess is "LOVE."

            Matt 22:37-39,

37        And he said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

38        This is the great and first commandment.

39        And a second like (unto it) is this; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.

John 14:23,

23        Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my word: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. ASV

1 Corinthians 13,

1          If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am become sounding brass, or a clanging cymbal.

2          And if I have (the gift of) prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

3          And if I bestow all my goods to feed (the poor), and if I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profited me nothing.

4          Love suffers long, (and) is kind; love envies not; love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

5          doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not its own, is not provoked, taketh not account of evil;

6          rejoices not in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth;

7          beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endures all things.

8          Love never faileth: but whether (there be) prophecies, they shall be done away; whether (there be) tongues, they shall cease; whether (there be) knowledge, it shall be done away.

9          For we know in part, and we    prophesy in part;

10        but when that which is perfect is come, that which is in part shall be done away.

11        When I was a child, I spake as a child, I felt as a child, I thought as a child: now that I am become a man, I have put away childish things.

12        For now we see in a mirror, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know fully even as also I was fully known.

13                But now abideth faith, hope, love,

these three; and the greatest of these is love. ASV

INDEED:  Galatians 1:8,

"But though we, or an angel from heaven, should preach unto you any gospel other than that which we preached unto you, let him be anathema." ASV

CONCLUSION:

            The apostle Paul taught many things, but there is one fact about the life of Paul that escapes many people. One of the great qualities that Paul possessed was his willingness to follow the instruction that he received from the Lord regardless of whatever else came upon him --- cf.,

2 Timothy 4:7-8, "… I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give to me at that day; and not to me only, but also to all them that have loved his appearing. ASV

   -------------------------------------------------------------------------

A LIST OF THINGS THAT

ALL CHRISTIANS CAN DO 

1.                  Send a Card to the sick, lonely, or bereaved.

2.                  Visit the sick, lonely, or shut-in.

3.                  Visit new members; have then in your home.

4.                  Visit the absentees and encourage them.

5.                  Worship regularly with the church.

6.                  Contribute regularly to the reverence in the assembly.

7.                  Read and study God's Word daily.

8.                  Distribute good literature (I.e., tracts, bulletins, etc.).

9.                  Use your car to bring others to service.

10.               Take flowers to the sick and shut in.

11.               Teach Bible classes or arrange them in your home.

12.               Be friendly; greet visitors to the service.

13.               Develop hospitality.

14.               Give of your money as prospered.

15.               Use your telephone to invite and encourage others.

16.               Take food to the sick, needy, and bereaved.

17.               Treat everyone fairly.

18.               Pray for one another.

19.               Pray for the preacher.

20.               Pray for the song leaders.

21.               Pray for the weak that they may become strong in the faith.

22.               Participate in the worship service, as you are able.

23.               Love you neighbor.

24.               Love your brethren.

25.               Attend gospel meetings.

26.               Support the elders of the church in their work.

27.               Contend earnestly for the faith, Jude 3.

28.               Give a copy of the bulletin to someone that will read it.

29.               Help with the ongoing cleaning, preparing the communion, maintenance, etc.

30.               Do good unto all men.

31.               Keep your promises to others.

32.               Live everyday as if everyone is watching you, everyone that counts is watching you   and learning from your actions.

Philippians 4:8,

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there

be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." (KJV)

…………………………………..

BUYERS GUIDE TO BOOKLETS,

SERMONS, AND STUDY GUIDES

CURRENTLY AVAILABLE

What kind of book is the bible?

A study of the occult

The evil of secular humanism

The Holy Spirit

Survey of the apostle Paul's life

The Book of Job

The church Jesus Built

The Lord's Supper

The contribution

Singing as an act of worship

Prayer as an act of worship

Teaching as an act of worship

The eldership

Questions about salvation from sin

Training teachers

Reply to complex questions

Class notes if 1st and 2nd Corinthians

Ecclesiology (i.e., study of the church)

Study of the Christian graces

The New Testament Church

The church of Christ

The faultless Christ (SERMON)

Organizational structure of the church

Four hundred silent years

A study of church history

The seven churches of Asia (Rev. 1:11-3:22)

God's family values

Materialism

We can understand God's Word

PUBLISHER'S NOTE:

            The booklets, sermons, and study guides that are available have been tested and tried in many settings. These booklets are useful to the teacher of the Bible for private as well as public study, these study aids are sound and they are easy to use in your teaching program.

            If you have questions about any of the publications listed, such as number of pages, contents, etc., do feel free to contact me at the contact points listed in this publication. If you are seeking answers to difficult and perplexing problems that you are experiencing in life, we may have some answers for you.  Contact: glclair@aol.com

DOING OUR VERY BEST

Often today, Christians become discouraged, troubled and filled with despair because their efforts to convert the lost and the backsliding brethren are unsuccessful. There is really no reason for despair on the part of the faithful Christian who does all that he can to convert the lost. The responsibility of the Christian has been discharged whenever he does all that he can do to teach in word and in deed the lost, one can do no more than they are capable of doing. In some cases, the Christian misunderstands his role in the conversion process. The Christian cannot make anyone serve God, he can only teach him the truth.

IT IS GOD WHO GIVES THE INCREASE

            One of the problems in the church at Corinth was a failure on the part of some to accept this fact, note -- 1 Corinthians 3:4-7, > "4 For when one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not men? > 5 What then is Apollos? and what is Paul? Ministers through whom ye believed; and each as the Lord gave to him. > 6 I planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. > 7 So then neither is he that planteth anything, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase" (ASV).

DO ALL THAT YOU ARE CAPABLE

OF DOING

Revelation 14:13,

13 And I heard the voice from heaven saying, Write, Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; for their works follow with them.

James 4:17

17 To him therefore that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. ASV

Matthew 6:33

33 But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. ASV

AS OFTEN AS WE HAVE OPPORTUNITY,

… LET US DO WHAT WE CAN …

…………………………………………….

HAPPENINGS

OPEN HEART SURGERY:

The editor underwent surgery to by-pass four blocked arteries in his heart June 2, 2003. The operation was successful and the editor is back to a full schedule of activities with the Cemetery Road church of Christ in Hilliard, Ohio.

TWO NEW GRANDCHILDREN:

            Our daughter, LeAnne has been in Russia to approve two children that they are adopting into their family. They are now in Russia for the second trip (July 10-23), they will bring the two babies home this trip. The names selected for the children are, Clare Elisabeth and Eean Parker. They already have two boys, Garreth and Grant. The grandparents are ecstatic!

GOSPEL MEETING:

The editor will be with the good church in Norwalk, Ohio September 7-12 for a series of meetings. We have been with this church several times before in gospel meetings and we look forward to seeing some of our old and dear friends in this effort. Shaun Sullivan is the capable evangelist with this church.

NEW BOOKLET:

            The editor is currently working on a book that will contain reminiscence and complete sermons that he has compiled and used during his 40+ years of preaching the gospel. We will let you know when the book is ready.

CASETTE TAPES:

The cassette tape library contains some 500 titles that are also available to our readers. The cost of $3.00 per tape covers postage and handling as well as the tape. Contact us for a list of titles or simply contact us and ask if we have a certain subject that you desire. Our points of contact are listed in the Publisher's Column.

READERS PLEASE NOTICE:

If you have a question pertaining to a Bible subject send it in, we will do our best to answer it in our "QUESTION and ANSWER COLUMN," - On the last page.

BE HAPPY AND JOYFUL

            Today as we look about us, we find that many people are filled with misery, sadness, and bewilderment. This is not just a problem that we have observed in the non-Christians we know but we have seen some of this disposition in Christians. I am amazed as I wonder why, of all people should a Christian be miserable.

            The true Christian is blessed in many ways where the non-Christian is not. Since this is a fact, let us corroborate this assumption with statements from God's Written Word.

Revelation 1:3,

3Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of the prophecy, and keep the things that are written therein: for the time is at hand.

1 Peter 3:14,

14 But even if ye should suffer for righteousness' sake, blessed (are ye:) and fear not their fear, neither be troubled; ASV

James 1:12,

12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for when he hath been approved, he shall receive the crown of life, which (the Lord) promised to them that love him. ASV

James 1:25,

25 But he that looketh into the perfect law, the (law) of liberty, and (so) continueth, being not a hearer that forgetteth but a doer that worketh, this man shall be blessed in his doing. ASV

Ephesians 1:3,

3 Blessed (be) the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly (places) in Christ: ASV

Romans 4:7.

7 (saying), Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, And whose sins are covered. ASV

WHY SHOULD WE BE UNHAPPY?

            Indeed, those of us who are faithful children of God are possessed of all spiritual blessings because we are in Christ (i.e., having been baptized into him whenever we became obedient to the gospel). Let us therefore rejoice

that we are Christians even when trial and periods of tribulation fall upon us.

PUBLISHER'S COLUMN

This publication is published for the furtherance of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The publisher and editor, Garreth L. Clair is the sole owner, writer, and is  responsible for circulation.

The Publication is free to anyone that will subscribe. We encourage those that receive this publication to help us with postage and printing costs. The publication can only proceed as often as there are available funds for printing and distribution.

We try to publish this magazine each quarter  (four times) throughout the year, there have been times that we were unable to do so because the funds were not available. If you like the magazine, send us a contribution.

We also sell tapes and study guides that are priced so that funds are available to reprint those that are sold. If there are, any funds left over after the sale of tapes and booklets we use that to purchase paper, toner, comb binders,  postage, mailing, and packaging. As you can see, we do not plan to make money - we are only interested in spreading useful materials for those that need assistance in their work of proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ.

All articles, sermons, pictures, and graphics are prepared by the editor. The editor also prints, and arranges all circulation of the publication.

… OUR CONTACT POINTS ARE …

Garreth L. Clair {Publisher & Editor}

2977 Carlsbad

Hilliard, Ohio, 43026

Phone: (614) 850-7252

Email: glclair@aol.com - glclair@sbcglobal.net

---------------------------------------------------------------

THE TIME IS SHORT

            I often reminisce about the beginning of my life as a Christian and my determination to succeed as a gospel preacher. There did not seem to be enough time back in 1969 to get done the things that I considered necessary. Even though the years have swiftly passed by, I still do not find enough time to do all the things that I need to get done. Perhaps this is the way we all are as we live out our existence here in this world. I have finally accepted the fact that there will be many things that I will not get done when finally I leave this world for heaven.

            The one thing that I want to have time to do is to serve God correctly. I fully realize that the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. Realizing this fact makes me keenly aware of my personal weaknesses and failings. Since I know myself better than anyone else (except God), I can guard my thoughts and actions so that I will not be cast into outer darkness in the last day.

            Each of us ought to know ourselves so that we can prepare as Paul says that he had at the close of his life. In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, Paul says;

6 For I am already being offered, and the time of my departure is come.

7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith:

8 henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give to me at that day; and not to me only, but also to all them that have loved his appearing. ASV

            The time of our sojourn here is short, yet many people do not act as though they believe this. The masses of humanity, worldwide are so heavily involved in the pursuit of material things that they do not have time to stop and think of their final residing place, sometime in the future, perhaps immediate. Indeed, it is important to understand the impermanence of this life and make adequate preparations for life after death - cf., Matthew 6:33.

CONSIDER MAGAZINE … 2003

CONSIDER MAGAZINE SELECTED EDITORIALS

Articles by Garreth L. Clair

5878 Yorkland Court Apt C,

Columbus, Ohio, 43232-6404

Phone (614) 751-0012

E-mail:  glclair@ao.com

=========================================================

October, 1997

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HONESTY AND GOOD MORALS IS NOT ENOUGH

      Often today we hear some sincere person exclaim,  "You know,  so and so seems to be such a good person and they seem to be such a good family, don't you think that they are saved people?"  This statement or one similar comes up very often in conversation today.  The question deserves a Biblical answer not an emotional one, as many are prone to offer.  What does the Bible say about sincerity, honesty, and good morals?

            Perhaps the best illustration in the Scriptures of God's attitude toward the honest, sincere, moral person is revealed to us in Acts 10, please read the following quotation before we discuss it further:   Acts 10:1-6,

1          There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,

2          (1)A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God always.

3          He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius.

4          And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, (2) Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.

5          And now (3) send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter:

6          He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.  (KJV)

CONSIDER THIS:

1.         Cornelius was a good, sincere, honest, moral man but he was not saved from his sin.  See his good qualities underlined above in 10:2.

2.         In 10:4 we see that God took note of his good  deeds   and morality but encouraged him by the angel to do    more than that.  There is a lesson here for all people of all ages.                 (THERE IS MORE TO SALVATION FROM SIN THAN BEING GOOD).

3.         In 10:5-6 the angel instructs Cornelius to send to Joppa and request that Simon Peter come to his   home and tell him what he needed to do further see portion underlined in verses 5-6 above.

            In this introduction to the context of chapter 10 we clearly see that Cornelius was a good, sincere, honest, moral man and yet God sends an angel to instruct him on what he needed to do further.  Today we have God's written word (i.e., the Bible) to guide us in understanding what the will of the Lord is.  But at the time contemporary with Cornelius the written word was unavailable.

            Whenever Peter received the messengers from Cornelius he acted according to his instructions from God and came to the home of Cornelius: Acts 10:17-35,

17        Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate,

18        And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there.

19        While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee.

20        Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.

21        Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come?

22        And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.

23        Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him.

24        And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.

25        And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him.

26        But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.

27        And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together.

28        And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath showed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.

29        Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?

30        And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,

31        And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.

32        Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.

33        Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.

34        Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

35        But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. 

CONSIDER THIS:

            In this portion of the 10th chapter we can see that Peter came to the home of Cornelius,  Cornelius rehearsed the things that had happened to him earlier, and Peter then exclaimed "But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is acceptable to him" (10:35) This exclamation from Peter simply indicates that Cornelius, as with everyone, may be saved from their sins by  "that feareth him, and worketh righteousness," (i.e., reverencing God and obeying him).

            Peter, after arriving at the home of Cornelius began to preach Jesus to him and his assembled family.  At the conclusion of the sermon by Peter the Cornelius and his family were baptized for the remission of sin as the Jews were on the day of Pentecost earlier, see acts 2:38.  Notice the instructions of Peter at the close of his sermon at the home of Cornelius:     Acts 10:47-48

47        Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?

48        And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.   (KJV)

CONCLUSION:

            We see that at the conclusion of the sermon in Acts 10 Cornelius and his family were baptized, but why were they baptized if their goodness, sincerity, honesty, and good morals could save them from sin?  It is a Biblical fact that salvation from sin is acquired through baptism by immersion for the remission of sins and in no other way (cf., 1 Peter 3:21).  Therefore, Cornelius and his family were saved from their sins, not by their good deeds, etc., but by their willingness to obey the instructions that came from God via Simon Peter.  Please notice the statements in the Bible that establish the necessity of obedience over all other considerations:

1 Samuel 15:22

22        And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

Job 36:10-12

10        He openeth also their ear to discipline, and commandeth that they return from iniquity.

11        If they obey and serve him, they shall spend their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures.

12        But if they obey not, they shall perish by the sword, and they shall die without knowledge.

Acts 5:29

29        Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said We ought to obey God rather than men.

2 Thessalonians 1:8

8          In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:

Hebrews 5:9

9              And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;

1 Peter 4:17-18

17           For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?

18           And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?   (KJV)

            Indeed, it is good to be honest, sincere, and morally correct, but man is instructed to obey God's instructions too if he desires salvation from sin.  Regardless of ones apparent goodness one cannot be saved from sin without coming to Christ on HIS TERMS (cf., Hebrews 5:8, 9).

 CONSIDER MAGAZINE

Published by Garreth L. Clair

5878 Yorkland Court - Apt. C

Columbus, Ohio,  43232-6404

Phone (614) 751-0012

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July-September 1997 ----- Number 2

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THINK ON THESE THINGS

Editorial by Garreth L. Clair

I.          LIFE GOES ON

            Indeed,  in spite of turmoil. tribulation, trial, and oppression life goes on for most people.  In spite of riches, recreation, entertainment, etc.?  Please let me make a few suggestions for the use of,  at least,  some of that time:

1.         BECOME A CHRISTIAN, YOU HAVE TIME NOW TO DO SO THE FUTURE MAY NOT BE AS KIND:

            Acts 17:30,

30        And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:

Revelation 3:20,

20        Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.  (KJV)

2.         PRESENT YOUR BODIES A LIVING SACRIFICE TO GOD DAILY:

Romans 12:1-2,

1          I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, (which is) your spiritual service.

2          And be not fashioned according to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, and ye may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.  (ASV)

3.         AID WORTHY SAINTS (i.e., Christians) AS OPPORTUNITY OCCURS:

2 Corinthians 9:12-13,

12        For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;

13        Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men;

4.         SERVE GOD UNDER ALL CIRCUMSTANCES,  IN BOTH GOOD AND BAD TIMES:

Ephesians 6:7,

7          With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men:  (KJV)

5.         AS A CHRISTIAN BE FAITHFUL IN YOUR ATTENDANCE AT ALL WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:

Hebrews 10:23-25,

23        let us hold fast the confession of our hope that it waver not; for he is faithful that promised:

24        and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works;

25        not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting (one another); and so much the more, as ye see the day drawing nigh.   (ASV)

II.        GOOD VALUES:

            Currently we see much and read a lot about virtues, morality, and ethics in everyday life.  Most people encouraging a return to the old virtues and morals that were present in people generally at the turn of the Century, most of which are good, moral people. The importance of moral and virtuous character is appreciated more and more in current social circles because it is apparent to most citizens in our current society that we are lacking in old fashion morals and virtues.  All kinds of crime statistics have escalated in the past 50 years and most reasonable people are suggesting that character contamination is part, if not most of the problem in our society today.  Many wise and considerate thinkers today long for the character that possessed those honest, sincere, charitable, forgiving, concerned, citizens of the past.

            Is it possible to return to those old values and live our lives consistent with them?  I believe that it is possible to return to those old pre- 1940s values because all men may know what those old values, morals, and ethics are simply by returning to the Book that contains them (i.e., the Holy Bible).  Please let me show you the values that the Bible teach in the following numbered items:

1.         7 CHARACTERISTICS THAT EVERY PERSON OUGHT TO POSSESS.

2 Peter  1:4-7, 4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;

6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;

7          And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity (i.e., love).

2.         LOVE GOD, LOVE NEIGHBORS.

            Mark 12:30-31, 30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. 31 And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.  (KJV)

3.         NO FORNICATION, NO ADULTERY.

Matthew 5:32, But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

Matthew 19:8-9, 8 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. 9 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.

1 Corinthians 6:18, Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.

Galatians 5:19, Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,   (KJV)

4.         AVOID BAD COMPANY AT ANY AGE.

1 Corinthians 15:33, Be not deceived: Evil companionships corrupt good morals.  (ASV)

1 Timothy 6:5, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.  (KJV)

NOTE:

Barbara and I are attending worship with the church meeting on Cemetery Road in Hilliard, Ohio.

CONSIDER MAGAZINE

Published by Garreth L. Clair

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January-March 1996

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Selection from 1st quarter 1996

STAND FIRM

            Today,  the willingness of Christians to "stand firm" is wanting in far too many locations.  Standing firm is simply another way of stating that Christians will not "contend earnestly for the faith" (cf., Jude 3) as they are encouraged to do by the Word of God  Far too many of us are unwilling to stand up and be counted whenever the "Truth" is challenged or trodden under foot,  those of us that value the "Truth" are required to defend it as we are pressed by evil,  we cannot stand on the side lines and do nothing or take a neutral position.

THE DEVIL IS NEVER NEUTRAL

            In all cases where the "Truth" is challenged,  the Devil and his disciples will not give up their evil purpose or compromise their evil designs.  Whenever a conflict arises between "Truth" (i.e., the Word of God) and the Devil's teaching (i.e., the apostate, sinfulness, untruth, false doctrine,  hypocrisy, error  etc.),  The Devil and his agents will insist on their way - should not the Christian "stand firm" on the Word of God in such cases?  Indeed,  the faithful  Christian has no recourse but to resist and challenge the Devil continually, 

cf.,  Ephesians  6:10-18;

10        Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

11        Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

12        For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

13        Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

14        Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

15        And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

16        Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

17        And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:   18            Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;  (KJV)

THE CHRISTIAN CAN WIN THE BATTLE

            The Word of God furnishes the Christian with all the necessary information to defeat the Devil and his agents in all things cf.,    2  Timothy  3:16-17;

16        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, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.   (KJV)

RESIST THE DEVIL

            The Christian has the power to overcome the Devil and his agents if he will keep himself in the faith and continue to resist the evil on ever point, cf., James 4:7-8;

7          Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

8          Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.  (KJV)

REMEMBER TO GUARD SELF CONTINUALLY

            The Devil is also clever and subtle,  the Christian is always to be conscious of these characteristics that the evil one possesses, 

cf.,     1 Peter  5:8-9; 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

9          Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in   (KJV)

PUT GOD FIRST

THEN RESISTING THE DEVIL WILL BE EASIER

            Matthew  6:33;   "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."   This passage refers to the things needed in life to survive, surely included in this passage is man's greatest need,  to overcome the Devil and his evil intentions in life.  Indeed,  seek the things of God first and the Christian will surely be strengthened to deal with the evil around him.

--- glclair@aol.com

Consider Magazine is an independent work by Garreth L. Clair

Garreth has over 50 years experience as a preacher, and is currently the preacher for the church that meets at 4840 Cemetery Road, in Hilliard OH.

http://www.cemeteryroadchurchofchrist.org/

Copyright 2005, All Rights Reserved.  (Please contact us for permission to reprint.)

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