Bible Study 11

KEEPING SOME OF GOD'S COMMANDS - Number 11

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., Col 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. ASV

SOME OF MY FAVORITE THINGS - Number 12

In our lives we develop a fondness for many things, some of the things that I have found to be 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.

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!

SOME WAYS THAT PEOPLE INVOLVE THEMSELVES IN SIN - Number 13

The problem of sin in the lives of people today is no less than it has been since the beginning of time. Sin is described in the Bible as, "lawlessness or unrighteousness" (1 John 3:4; 5:14), sin is also referred to as "transgression of God's Law (Romans 2:22-25; 1 John 3:4)." Actually, then, all sin is lawlessness, unrighteousness, or transgression. Having simplified the Biblical concept of sin let us now define sin in more detail.

1. FAILURE TO OBEY GOD'S INSTRUCTIONS:

Acts 5:29, "But Peter and the apostles answered and said, We must obey God rather than men."

2 Thessalonians 1:8, "rendering vengeance to them that know not God, and to them that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus:" ASV

1 Peter 4:17, "For the time (is come) for judgment to begin at the house of God: and if (it begin) first at us, what (shall be) the end of them that obey not the gospel of God?" ASV

2. DOING MORE THAN GOD INSTRUCTS:

2 John 9-11, "9 Whosoever goeth onward and abides not in the teaching of Christ, hath not Godhe that abides in the teaching, the same hath both the Father and the Son.

10 If any one cometh unto you, and bringeth not this teaching, receive him not into (your) house, and give him no greeting:

11 for he that giveth him greeting partaketh in his evil works." ASV

3. DOING LESS THAN GOD INSTRUCTS:

James 2:10-11, "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. ASV

Matthew 23:23, "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye tithe mint and anise and cummin, and have left undone the weightier matters of the law, justice, and mercy, and faith: but these ye ought to have done, and not to have left the other undone. ASV

Luke 11:42, "But woe unto you Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and every herb, and pass over justice and the love of God: but these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

4. ALTERING GOD'S INSTRUCTIONS:

2 Timothy 4:3, "For the time will come when they will not endure the sound doctrine; but, having itching ears, will heap to themselves teachers after their own lusts;" ASV

1 Timothy 6:3, "If any man teacheth a different doctrine, and consenteth not to sound words, (even) the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;"

Galatians 1:6-8, "6I marvel that ye are so quickly removing from him that called you in the grace of Christ unto a different gospel; 7which is not another (gospel) only there are some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8But 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

2 Peter 3:15-16, "15And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also, according to the wisdom given to him, wrote unto you;

16as also in all (his) epistles, speaking in them of these things; wherein are some things hard to be understood, which the ignorant and unstedfast wrest, as (they do) also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction." ASV

Matthew 15:3, "And he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition?" ASV

CONCLUSION:

The disciple of Christ will always be careful to love God and neighbor but will also make every effort to comply with God's instruction that relate to other areas of life and service also. Cf., Matthew 6:33, "But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. ASV

SIN SEPARATES MAN FROM GOD

GOD HATES ALL SIN

THE NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH - Number 14

(Defining the word church)

TEXT:

Matthew 16:13-20 (Reference also in Mark 8:27-30; Luke 9:18-20)

13 When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, "Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?"

14 So they said,” Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets."

15 He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?"

16 Simon Peter answered and said,” You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

17 Jesus answered and said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. 18 And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven."

20 Then He commanded His disciples that they should tell no one that He was Jesus the Christ” (NKJV).

INTRODUCTION:

Understanding of the church Jesus built begins with an understanding of the phrase “church”. Those of us having more than a passing interest in the church Jesus built are interested in teaching others about it. Consequently, we are, or must understand what it is in order to explain it to others. The very nature of the Christian’s commitment to Christ requires of him/her that they teach others about Christ and His Church, cf. Matthew 28:18-20, 18 “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.

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}.

DEFINING THE WORD CHURCH IN HISTORICAL PRESPECTIVE

‘The Greek word ekklesia, which came to mean church, was originally applied in the Classical period to an official assembly of citizens. In the Septuagint (Greek) translation of the Old Testament (3rd–2nd century BC), the term ekklesia is used for the general assembly of the Jewish people, especially when gathered for a religious purpose such as hearing the Law (e.g., Deuteronomy 9:10, 18:16). In the New Testament it is used of the entire body of believing Christians throughout the world (e.g., Matthew 16:18), of the believers in a particular area (e.g., Acts 5:11), and also of the congregation meeting in a particular house—the “house-church” (e.g., Romans 16:5)”. (Excerpted from Encyclopedia Britannica Online}

CHRIST USED A WORD IN COMMON USE

AT THE TIME HE PREDICTED HE WOULD BUILD HIS CHURCH, Matthew 16:18.

The selection of the word church to designate the church Jesus Built indicates that it was to be an assembly of people who had all followed His prescription to enter it as those that entered it (i.e., the first congregation), on the day of Pentecost, cf. Acts 2:37-47, “37 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" 38 Then Peter said to them,” Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call." 40 And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, "Be saved from this perverse generation." 41 Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. 42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. 44 Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, 45 and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. 46 So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved” (NKJV).

SOME FACTS ABOUT THE CHURCH JESUS BUILT

1. The church Jesus promised to build is described as a new relationship for Jews and Gentiles where they were to be united in one body --- Ephesians 2:11-22, “11 Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh — who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands — 12 that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, 15 having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, 16 and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity. 17 And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near. 18 For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father. 19 Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit” (NKJV).

2. The church Jesus promised to build is described by as a place where the citizens of it are peaceful and docile, and harmless as doves --- Isaiah 2:4, “4 He shall judge between the nations, And rebuke many people; They shall beat their swords into plowshares, And their spears into pruning hooks; Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, Neither shall they learn war anymore” (NKJV).

John 14:25-27, “25 These things I have spoken to you while being present with you. 26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

Matthew 11:28-30, “28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (NKJV).

CONSIDER THIS:

During Jesus ministry he taught the crowds that followed him about the qualities of and the nature of the people that were to make up the church (i.e., Kingdom of God) he promised to build especially is this prominent in his teaching of “The Sermon on the Mountain” cf. Matthew 5-7.

3. Jesus taught the people of his day that there would be salvation from sin for both Jews and Greeks, both slaves and freemen, and both male and female in the church he established --- 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, “12 For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. 13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body — whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free — and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For in fact the body is not one member but many.

Galatians, 3:26-29, “26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise” (NKJV)

4. Jesus set the organizational structure of the church, both in its universal sense and in its local congregational sense:

* In the universal sense the church is the Body of Christ, He is the head of it --- Ephesians 1:19-23, “19 and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power 20 which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come. 22 And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, 23 which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all” (NKJV).

** In the local, congregational sense each congregation is autonomous, self governing, having their own plurality of elders, deacons, and members --- Ephesians 4:11-16, “11 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors (i.e., elders – added by Glc) and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head — Christ — 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love” (NKJV).

Philippians 1:1, “1 Paul and Timothy, bondservants of Jesus Christ, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops {i.e., “elders – Added by Glc} and deacons” (NKJV).

CONSIDER THIS:

The Biblical organization of the church of Christ is a plurality of elders (i.e., bishops, presbyters, pastors,) in every church, with deacons serving under the oversight of the qualified elders. The qualifications of elders and deacons is found in Titus 1:5-9, “5 For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you — 6 if a man is blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of dissipation or insubordination. 7 For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, 8 but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, 9 holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict” (NKJV).

1 Timothy 3:8-13, “8 Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, 9 holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. 10 But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless. 11 Likewise, their wives must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus” (NKJV).

5. The church Jesus built has a divinely given pattern for its worship --- John 4:24, “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (NKJV).

There are five actions included in acceptable worship:

Lord’s Supper -- Acts 20:7, “Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight” ( NKJV).

Giving into a common treasury (i.e. the congregation’s treasury) -- 1 Corinthians 16:1-2, “ Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: 2 On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come” (NKJV).

Singing -- Ephesians 5:19-21, “19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, 20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another in the fear of God.”

Colossians 3:16, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord” (NKJV).

Praying – Colossians 4:2-4, “Continue earnestly in prayer , being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; 3 meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, 4 that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.”

Philippians 4:6, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (NKJV).

Ephesians 5:2, “ giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another in the fear of God” (NKJV).

Teaching (i. e. preaching) -- Acts 20:7, “Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight” (NKJV).

6. The work that the congregation is to do is also revealed by God, each congregation is to perform activities that God has authorized the congregation to do. Those authorized activities are:

Edify the congregation – Romans 14:19, “Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.”

1 Corinthians 10:23-24, “23 All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify. 24 Let no one seek his own, but each one the other's well-being.

1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.”

Ephesians 4:12, “ For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:”

Evangelize the world to the extent of the congregation’s resources – Matthew 28:18-20, “18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.

Acts 8:4-8, “4 Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word. 5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them. 6 And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. 8 And there was great joy in that city.

Acts 11:19-26, “19 Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. 20 But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord.”22 Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. 23 When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. 25 Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. 26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. “

Acts 20:7, “Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight. NKJV

CONSIDER THIS:

It is often suggested that if each congregation is limited to the extent of its ability how may the church aid in evangelizing the far off countries and their many and varied peoples? The Lord did not leave this matter to the judgment of individual Christians or to the judgment of the elders of autonomous churches; He did revealed the method for doing this type of world outreach to the Lost. Please note the following Biblical references that show how this work was done in early New Testament times:

FIRST – Notice in these passages that the preacher (i.e., Paul and his fellow preachers) in the mission field (i.e. Corinth) was supported directly by many churches:

SECOND– Notice that the large congregation in Jerusalem, after hearing of the conversion of the Gentiles in Antioch of Syria, sent Barnabus (i.e., supported him) to go and strengthen and encourage them – (see above Acts 11:22-25, underlined)

2 Corinthians 11:5-10, “5 For I consider that I am not at all inferior to the most eminent apostles. 6 Even though I am untrained in speech, yet I am not in knowledge. But we have been thoroughly manifested among you in all things. 7 Did I commit sin in humbling myself that you might be exalted, because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge? 8 I robbed other churches, taking wages from them to minister to you. 9 And when I was present with you, and in need, I was a burden to no one, for what I lacked the brethren who came from Macedonia supplied. And in everything I kept myself from being burdensome to you, and so I will keep myself.”

2 Corinthians 12:12-13, “12 Truly the signs of an apostle were accomplished among you with all perseverance, in signs and wonders and mighty deeds. 13 For what is it in which you were inferior to other churches, except that I myself was not burdensome to you? Forgive me this wrong” (NKJV)!

THIRDLY – Whenever a large, affluent congregation sees the need to assist a church either in America or a foreign country and are financially able to do so they ought to do it.

FORTHLY – Whenever a need is brought to the attention of faithful churches and evangelists in a destitute place, a church ought to send a sound man to assist the needy church. If the congregation cannot support the man alone they ought to aid him in raising whatever support that he needs from other churches and individuals and Have the support sent directly to the preacher in the field of labor. The New Testament does not give authority to do this work of evangelizing any other way.

Care for needy (i.e., destitute) Christians -- Acts 11:27-30, “27 And in these days prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 Then one of them, named Agabus, stood up and showed by the Spirit that there was going to be a great famine throughout all the world, which also happened in the days of Claudius Caesar. 29 Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea. 30 This they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.”

James 2:15-16, “15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit” (NKJV).

1 Corinthians 16:1-2, “1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: 2 On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come. NKJV

Care for widows indeed from the congregation’s treasury - 1 Timothy 5:3-16, “3 Honor widows who are really widows. 4 But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety at home and to repay their parents; for this is good and acceptable before God. 5 Now she who is really a widow, and left alone, trusts in God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day. 6 But she who lives in pleasure is dead while she lives. 7 And these things command, that they may be blameless. 8 But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 9 Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man, 10 well reported for good works: if she has brought up children, if she has lodged strangers, if she has washed the saints' feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, if she has diligently followed every good work. 11 But refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, 12 having condemnation because they have cast off their first faith. 13 And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not. 14 Therefore I desire that the younger widows marry, bear children, manage the house, give no opportunity to the adversary to speak reproachfully. 15 For some have already turned aside after Satan. 16 If any believing man or woman has widows, let them relieve them, and do not let the church be burdened, that it may relieve those who are really widows” (NKJV).

CONSIDER THIS:

Responsibilities of Christians on an individual basis examined toward the poor, destitute, orphans, and widows or widowers. Consider these following Biblical references in context:

With regard to younger widows or those widows with family -- 1 Timothy 5:14-16, “14 Therefore I desire that the younger widows marry, bear children, manage the house, give no opportunity to the adversary to speak reproachfully. 15 For some have already turned aside after Satan. 16 If any believing man or woman has widows, let them relieve them, and do not let the church be burdened, that it may relieve those who are really widows” (NKJV).

With regard to the poor -- John 12:8, “For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always.”

NOTE - There is not enough in the world today to stop all poverty, there are some people who will always be poor because of a number of social, political, economic, and personal choices. Regardless of this circumstance, Christians are to do whatever they are able to do to relieve the world's poor.

Galatians 2:10, “They desired only that we should remember the poor, the very thing which I also was eager to do.”

James 2:1-6, “My brethren, do not hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with partiality. 2 For if there should come into your assembly a man with gold rings, in fine apparel, and there should also come in a poor man in filthy clothes, 3 and you pay attention to the one wearing the fine clothes and say to him, "You sit here in a good place," and say to the poor man, "You stand there," or, "Sit here at my footstool," 4 have you not shown partiality among yourselves, and become judges with evil thoughts? 5 Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him” (NKJV).

Galatians 6:10, “10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (NKJV).

With regard to orphans and widows -- James 1:27, “Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world”.

With regard to enemies -- Matthew 5:48, “"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I say to you, love your enemies , bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? 48 Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect” (NKJV).

With regard to brethren:

Erring brethren -- James 5:19-20, “19 Brethren , if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, 20 let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins” (NKJV).

Faithful brethren -- 1 Peter 1:22-23, “22 Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren , love one another fervently with a pure heart, 23 having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever,”

1 John 3:13-18, “13 Do not marvel, my brethren , if the world hates you. 14 We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death. 15 Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. 16 By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17 But whoever has this world's goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? 18 My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth” (NKJV).

How to behave as Christians interact together in Christ (i.e., in the church) – 1 Timothy 3:14-16, “These things I write to you, though I hope to come to you shortly; 15 but if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to behave yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. 16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness”

1 Corinthians 13:1-13, “1Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. 4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. 13 And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love” (NKJV)

CONCLUSION:

The material that we have presented here is a very small portion of those things that the New Testament teaches about church membership, and the Christian’s personal responsibility. From time to time we will discuss more of the duties, privileges, and desires that the Christian ought to possess. There are many fundamental matters that are often overlooked or neglected in the life of many Christians; perhaps we can study these matters in the future in more detail. Biblical study is the most productive of all reading and personal study, there is not another source of information on earth that will effect your life more that the information that God has revealed to us via the Written Word. Study the Bible daily…

ARE YOU PUZZLED BY SOME THINGS THAT RELIGIOUS PEOPLE PRACTICE?

Do you wonder why one religious body will take the same passage of scripture and interpret it in a completely different way than another religious body does?

Have you wondered why one religious body says that baptism is a non-essential to salvation from sin and another religious body says that baptism is for remission of sin?

Have you wondered why one religious body teaches that the Lord’s Supper (i.e. communion), is taken once a year, another partakes once a month, and yet another takes it every first day of each week (i.e. every Sunday)?

Have you ever wondered why one religious body tells us that everyone can be saved from sin by faith alone and another religious body tells us that one must believe the gospel, repent of past sins, confess the divinity of Jesus, and be immersed in water for the remission of sins in order to be saved?

I WILL TELL YOU WHY!

Even though all this is accepted by many religious people as ok, God does not approve of this kind of disunity and diversity. God would have all religious people unified on a single program of Bible based and properly interpreted doctrine – cf. 2 John 9-11, “9 Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; 11 for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds” (NKJV).

RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE BIBLE BY PERIOD - Number 15

2 Timothy 2:15

1. The Antediluvian Period --- This covers from Creation to Noah's Flood. Ante means before (i.e., the great flood).

2. The Postdiluvian Period --- This covers from Noah's Flood to the call of Abraham (Genesis 12). Post means after or subsequent.

3. The Patriarchal Period --- This period covers from the call of Abraham to the descent into Egypt of Jacob's family. Earlier patriarchs had lived but we know so much more about Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob these adorns the Bible from Genesis 12 to Genesis 50.

4. The Egyptian Period --- This covers the era from the descent into Egypt to the Exodus, approximately 200 - 215 years.

5. The Period of Wandering --- This period covers 40+ years. Two miraculous water crossings adorn this period; crossing the Read Sea at the beginning of this period and crossing the flood swollen waters of the Jordan River at the end under Joshua's leadership.

6. The Period of Conquest --- This is the period from their crossing into Canaan until the appointment of the first Judge, Othniel. Canaan is conquered and parceled out among nine and one-half of the tribes at this time. Two and one-half tribes had already received their inheritance under Moses in Eastern Palestine.

7. The Period of the Judges --- This is a lengthy period and covers from Othniel's appointment as first judge to the establishment of the kingdom under Saul. There were at least 15 judges - fourteen men and one woman judge, this era constitutes the dark ages in Israel's history.

8. The Period of the United Kingdom --- This is the era that covers the three reigns of Saul, David, and Solomon. Each ruled for forty years, this period begins with Saul's inauguration and ends with the division initiated by Solomon's apostate and sad ruin.

9. The Period of the Divided Kingdom --- Covered here are the years of Judah (Southern Kingdom) and Israel (Northern Kingdom). This period lasted from 975 B.C. - 722 B.C. Each of the kingdoms had 19 kings. David's line kept the Southern Kingdom except for Athaliah's short reign. The Northern Kingdom had several dynasties, which ruled briefly then faded away.

10. The Period of Judah Alone --- This covers about 136 years from the fall of Samaria to the destruction of Jerusalem by the Assyrians in 586 B.C.

11. The Period of the Captivity --- This covers those years Judah spent in captivity in Babylon. This cured their idolatrous inclinations.

12. The Period of the Restoration --- This period covers from Cyrus' decree that they could return to Canaan to Nehemiah's rebuilding Jerusalem and the city walls and Malachi's penning the final book of the Old Testament.

13. Between the Testaments Period --- This covers the 400 years from Nehemiah and Malachi to the announced births of John and Jesus. Many otherwise knowledgeable students of the Bible know but little of this period and yet knowledge of this era enhances a greater acquaintance with many New Testaments institutions and events. The editor has published a study guide to this era titled "THE FOUR HUNDRED SILENT YEARS.

14. The Period of Jesus Incarnation --- This period covers from His birth to His ascension. Approximately 33 years are involved. The Son of God and Son of Man met and merged in Him who is our Glorious Savior and Majestic and all-powerful King.

15. The Period of the Lord's Church --- This covers from Pentecost until the end. This earth's final age. There will not be another opportunity for mankind; this is the last dispensation of time. After this the judgment will occur. Compiled by Garreth L. Clair - June 16, 2003

THE CHURCH - Number 16

(The Pillar and Ground of the Truth)

TEXT:

1 Timothy 3:15, “but if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth” (NKJV).

INTRODUCTION:

As the house depends on the pillars and foundation (i.e. ground) to support it so the church (i.e. the pillars and ground) is to the truth (i.e., God’s Word).

THE TRUTH IS DEPENDANT UPON THE CHURCH FOR ITS PROCLAMATION:

The truth has no voice of its own, with which to proclaim it’s self. It is in the hands of faithful men (i.e. earthen vessels). 2 Corinthians 4:7, “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us” (NKJV).

1. The church if God’s teaching institution; God’s missionary society; 1 Timothy 3:15, “but if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth” (NKJV).

2. God’s truth does not depend on the government to support it and proclaim it. The army, navy, or the state is not designed by God to support or proclaim the truth.

3. The Great Commission is to be carried out by the church and by faithful men sent out by the church:

Primary authority for the congregations evangelizing program - Matthew 28:18-20, “18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (NKJV).

The duty of faithful men - 2 Timothy 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).

4. The church is also to teach the truth through its members

Acts 8:1-5, “1 Now Saul was consenting to his death. At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. 2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. 3 As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison. 4 Christ Is Preached in Samaria Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word. 5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them” (NKJV)

5. The truth nay be taught publicly, privately, in the street, in the market place, in a building, indeed, “anywhere.”

Acts 17:17, “17 Therefore he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and with the Gentile worshipers, and in the marketplace daily with those who happened to be there” (NKJV).

Acts 20:10, “10 But Paul went down, fell on him, and embracing him said, "Do not trouble yourselves, for his life is in him” (NKJV).

Acts 11:26, “26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch” (NKJV).

6. The church is to train faithful and able teachers.

2 Timothy 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.”

Hebrews 5:12, “For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food” (NKJV).

7. We may use many lawful expedients in the proclamation and support of the truth:

Teaching bulletins

Scriptural tracts

Gospel meetings

Lecture programs

Correspondence course

Radio programs

Television programs

Websites on the internet

Telephone

Write letters

Audio Tapes

Video Tapes

Transpariences

Power Point Presentations

REMEMBER THIS – The command is “TEACH” (Matthew 28:19).

CONCLUSION:

As members of this congregation, it is our responsibility to be the “… pillar and ground of the truth…”

SOME THOUGHTS ABOUT

THE CHRISTIAN THAT LEAVES THE FAITH - Number 17

Possibly one of the most puzzling aspects of Christianity is the conscious decision of some that have been faithful to Christ -- to leave HIM and go back into the world. I have agonized over this matter for many years and have prepared many sermons to encourage faithfulness realizing that others who are now faithful may be the next to fall away. Indeed, we know that the New Testament teaches that a Christian may "fall away", may "fall from grace", etc. As I have consider this matter it has become evident to me that many leave the faith, that those that do leave the faith leave for many different reasons. It is never acceptable to God to leave the faith for any reason but I know through interaction and conversation with some that have left the faith that they had reasons that they considered more important than remaining faithful.

The question of keeping the faith is important as the Christian's hope rests upon his faithfulness unto death -- cf., Revelation 2:10, "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." (ASV) The question is also of great interest to those that are continuing faithful. The faithful are concerned about, "why do the faithful leave?" Is there something that we should have done or are we in some way responsible for their failure? Let us look at the Bible's teaching about the condition of the backslider.

1. First of all let us recognize that we must never become a stumbling block in the life of any Christian or anyone for that matter:

Rom 14:12-13,

"So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. 13Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother's way." NKJV

1 Cor 8:9-10,

"But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak."

Rev 2:14,

"But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality." NKJV

2. In the second place we that are faithful have a responsibility to one another to love each other and to bear one another's burdens:

Rom 12:9-10,

9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

10 In love of the brethren be tenderly affectioned one to another; in honor preferring one another; ASV

1 Cor 13:4-8,

4 Love suffereth long, (and) is kind; love envieth 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 rejoiceth not in unrighteousness, but rejoiceth with the truth;

7 beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth 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." ASV

Gal 6:2,

"Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."ASV

3. In the third place the faithful are to try to restore those that turn away from the faith (i.e., backslide):

Gal 6:1-2,

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.

2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. ASV

4. Finally, whenever the faithful have been a pattern of good works, love, patience, and possess a willingness to go to the backslider and try and restore him/her to faithfulness, surely they can do nothing else. After the faithful have exhausted all avenues of Biblical instruction in their attempt to restore such a one, the faithful ones must not blame themselves for the failure of the backslider to return to the faith. The guilt for sinning and leaving the faith belongs to him who has chosen to leave the faith and remain in the world.

CONSIDER THIS:

Ezek 18:19-21,

20 The soul who sins shall die. The son shall not bear the guilt of the father, nor the

father bear the guilt of the son. The righteousness of the righteous shall be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon himself.

21 But if a wicked man turns from all his sins which he has committed, keeps all

My statutes, and does what is lawful and right, he shall surely live; he shall not die. NKJV

THE PRECEEDING ARTICLE is presented to answer a question that was received by the editor. The question was, "Don't you think that most of the people that leave the church leave because of other church members?"

DEALING WITH MATTERS OF OPINION - Number 18

Our greatest problem is to keep the members focused on Christ and His Church rather than on themselves and their attitude toward self and other people. You see, most people are critical of others and very patient with self and those that are related to self. Whenever a number of people are engaged in a common enterprise there will always be differences of opinion about how various authorized activities are to be carried on, this difference of opinion often becomes the source of open like or dislike among brethren.

We are not discussing matters of faith (i.e., doctrinal matters), we are discussing methods and means of carrying out Divinely authorized activities. We generally understand that baptism is necessary to salvation, over this matter we have no controversy but where, and how, and what to say oftentimes becomes a source of controversy. You see, some brethren may think that it is necessary to baptize one in running water (like the Jordan River), another might disagree and charge such a one with attempting to bind where there is no Divine binding. It is therefore easy to see that matters of judgment may often become stumbling blocks to unity among brethren when such should not happen. Some of the important Biblical teaching on this matter may be found in the following texts:

Romans 14:1-15:7,

1 But him that is weak in faith receive ye, (yet) not for decision of scruples.

2 One man hath faith to eat all things: but he that is weak eateth herbs.

3 Let not him that eateth set at nought him that eateth not; and let not him that eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.

4 Who art thou that judgest the servant of another? to his own lord he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be made to stand; for the Lord hath power to make him stand.

5 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day (alike). Let each man be fully assured in his own mind.

6 He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord: and he that eateth, eateth unto the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, unto the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.

7 For none of us liveth to himself, and none dieth to himself.

8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; or whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.

9 For to this end Christ died and lived (again), that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living.

10 But thou, why dost thou judge thy brother? or thou again, why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment-seat of God.

11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, to me every knee shall bow, And every tongue shall confess to God.

12 So then each one of us shall give account of himself to God.

13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge ye this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock in his brother's way, or an occasion of falling.

14 I know, and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean of itself: save that to him who accounteth anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean.

15 For if because of meat thy brother is grieved, thou walkest no longer in love. Destroy not with thy meat him for whom Christ died.

16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of:

17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

18 For he that herein serveth Christ is well-pleasing to God, and approved of men.

19 So then let us follow after things which make for peace, and things whereby we may edify one another.

20 Overthrow not for meat's sake the work of God. All things indeed are clean; howbeit it is evil for that man who eateth with offence.

21 It is good not to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor (to do anything) whereby thy brother stumbleth.

22 The faith which thou hast, have thou to thyself before God. Happy is he that judgeth not himself in that which he approveth.

23 But he that doubteth is condemned if he eat, because (he eateth) not of faith; and whatsoever is not of faith is sin.

CHAPTER 15

1 Now we that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

2 Let each one of us please his neighbor for that which is good, unto edifying.

3 For Christ also pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell upon me.

4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that through patience and through comfort of the scriptures we might have hope.

5 Now the God of patience and of comfort grant you to be of the same mind one with another according to Christ Jesus:

6 that with one accord ye may with one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

7 Wherefore receive ye one another, even as Christ also received you, to the glory of God. (ASV)

1 Corinthians 8:1-13,

1 Now concerning things sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but love edifieth.

2 If any man thinketh that he knoweth anything, he knoweth not yet as he ought to know;

3 but if any man loveth God, the same is known by him.

4 Concerning therefore the eating of things sacrificed to idols, we know that no idol is (anything) in the world, and that there is no God but one.

5 For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or on earth; as there are gods many, and lords many;

6 yet to us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we unto him; and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and we through him.

7 Howbeit there is not in all men that knowledge: but some, being used until now to the idol, eat as (of) a thing sacrificed to an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.

8 But food will not commend us to God: neither, if we eat not, are we the worse; nor, if we eat, are we the better.

9 But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to the weak.

10 For if a man see thee who hast knowledge sitting at meat in an idol's temple, will not his conscience, if he is weak, be emboldened to eat things sacrificed to idols?

11 For through thy knowledge he that is weak perisheth, the brother for whose sake Christ died.

12 And thus, sinning against the brethren, and wounding their conscience when it is weak, ye sin against Christ.

13 Wherefore, if meat causeth my brother to stumble, I will eat no flesh for evermore, that I cause not my brother to stumble. (ASV)

In all discussions remember this: Hebrews 13:1, "Let brotherly love continue." (KJV)

DID GOD CREATE EVIL? - Number 19

Isaiah 45:7

Let us first, consider Isaiah 45:7, "I form the light, and create darkness. I make peace and create evil. I, the Lord, do all these things."

To demonstrate that "evil" in Isaiah 45:7 of the KJV does not incorporate wickedness or depravity, note the same verse in other versions. "I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster; I, the Lord, do all these things" (NIV). The English Standard Version renders the verse, "I form the light and create darkness, I make well-being and create calamity; I am the Lord who does all these things."

We do not question the truth that God has brought disaster and calamity upon various people on different occasions. As an example, he brought disaster upon the Jewish people in A. D. 67-70 when He used the Roman Army to punish them for their long-term rebellion. Many other biblical examples could be cited. But to say He created, or is the author of, wickedness and depravity —which in essence, describes evil—is simply not true. God is not the creator of evil and evil inclinations, evil comes from within the individual {cf., James 1:13-15, “13 Let no one say when he is tempted , "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. 15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death” (NKJV)}.

Evil is developed and cultivated by fallen man. In James 1:13, we read, "For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone" [with evil]. Peter says the "face of the Lord is against those who do evil" (1 Peter 3:12). To do evil is to create evil. If God created evil, He is against Himself?

I think it is fairly safe, then, to conclude that God created an avenue through which evil could make its entrance. But the author of evil itself is the devil. He is the "prince of demons" (Matt. 12:24). On earth, in the Garden of Eden, evil was not prevalent in the world until Adam and Eve disregarded God's instructions. Again, Satan was behind it all.

Hilliard, Ohio - Tuesday, November 02, 2004

Evangelism - Number 20

Matthew 28:18-20

One of the important functions of the church and of the individual Christian is to evangelize the Lost - Matthew 28:18-20, “18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (NKJV). As we recognize the need to evangelize we are often hesitant to proceed because we do not know who to evangelize. Let us look at the Bible for information regarding those that we ought to seek out and teach:

We ought to teach those that are not associated with a church of any kind; these people need the saving power that obedience to God’s plan of salvation will provide. Many people today do not profess any religious connection at all so - 2 Thessalonians 1:8, “In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ” (KJV).

We ought to teach those that belong to any church other than the church of Christ, We note in the early church that Christians taught those that belonged to the Jew’s religion, those that belonged to the pagan religions (I.e., idolaters), and all other religious people to be converted and become Christians so that they might be saved from their sin:

Jew’s religion - Acts 4:10-12, “10 let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole. 11 This is the 'stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.' 12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved”

The pagan religions (I.e., Idolaters) and with other religious peoples - Acts 17:16-17, “Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him when he saw that the city was given over to idols. 17 Therefore he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and with the Gentile worshipers, and in the marketplace daily with those who happened to be there” (NKJV).

We ought to teach those that are our relatives but are not Christians, we have an example in the New Testament that establishes the validity of this ideal - Acts 10:24-25, “And the following day they entered Caesarea. Now Cornelius was waiting for them, and had called together his relatives and close friends.”

We ought to teach our neighbors - Ephesians 4:25, “Therefore, putting away lying, Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor," for we are members of one another.”

Hebrews 8:11-12 - “11 None of them shall teach his neighbor, and none his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,' for all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them. 12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more."

We ought to teach everyone about the Lord, about those promises of God for those that obey Him.

----- What will you do with your opportunities? -----

It is so easy for us to give lip-service to God’s instruction but that is not enough. Each Christian is obligated to do whatever they can to spread the message of Christ to others. We can do whatever we want to do about this matter. Whatever we decide to do is our personal right, yet to choose not to do anything is not acceptable to God, we must do something - James 4:17, “Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin”

Example of a person's need to use their ability (i.e. in evangelism - personal work)

Matthew 25:14-28,

"For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. 15 And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. 16 Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. 17 And likewise he who had received two gained two more also. 18 But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord's money. 19 After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them.

20 "So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, 'Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.' 21 His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' 22 He also who had received two talents came and said, 'Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.' 23 His lord said to him,'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'

24 "Then he who had received the one talent came and said, 'Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.'

26 "But his lord answered and said to him, 'You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. 27 So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest. 28 So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents. NKJV

CONSIDER THE MESSAGE!

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/

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