Bible Study 31

"EDIFICATION" - Number 31

The subject, "EDIFICATION, EDIFY, BUILD UP" is a very important part of the work of each congregation of God's people today. The Greek word from which this family of words has come lets us know that the subject is of great import to God so far as the progress of his church is concerned, please look at the meaning of the word:

EDIFICATION (Grk. oikodome, "building"). Means building up. A building is therefore called an edifice. Accordingly, the work of confirming believers in the faith of the gospel and adding to their knowledge and grace is appropriately expressed by this term. Christians are said in the NT to be edified by understanding spiritual truth (1 Cor 14:3-5), by the work of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers (Eph 4:11-12, "building up"), and by good speech (4:29).

The means to be used for one's upbuilding are the study and hearing of God's Word, prayer, meditation, self-examination, and Christian work of every kind. It is our duty to edify or "build up one another" (1 Thess 5:11) by the exhibition of every grace of life and conversation.

The term is also applied to believers as "living stones" builded up into a habitation for the Lord, constituting the great spiritual temple of God (Eph 2:20-22; 1 Peter 2:5).

ONE OF THE PRIMARY FUNCTIONS OF THE CONGREGATION

It is the responsibility of each autonomous congregation to "build up itself" or make itself stronger in the qualities that God approves. The individual congregation functioning under its leadership is to work at strengthening each member in the faith -- this process of strengthening each member will result in a strong, sound, congregation. The congregation that has a scriptural eldership will see to it that the program of edification is designed to strengthen the church in every way that is consistent with the Divine pattern. Whenever we examine the Scriptural references where the word is translated edify or edification we understand that the church is to put forth the effort to grow, such as Peter says in 2 Peter 3:18, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him (be) the glory both now and for ever. Amen." {ASV} Please note some of the passages:

1 Corinthians 14:3-5,

3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men edification, and exhortation, and consolation.

4 He that speaketh in a tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.

5 Now I would have you all speak with tongues, but rather that ye should prophesy: and greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. ASV You will notice that in this context the important emphasis is placed by the writer on edification and the importance of it. Paul, even where miraculous spiritual gifts were being used encourages that edification of the congregation is of paramount importance.

Ephesians 4:11-12,

11 And he gave some (to be) apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

12 for the perfecting of the saints, unto the work of ministering, unto the building up of the body of Christ:

ASV

This passage is an important one in understanding the very purpose of the church as Christ structured it; all things are to be done with the growth of the membership as goal.

Ephesians 4:29,

29 Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for edifying as the need may be, that it may give grace to them that hear. ASV

The conversation of those that make up the congregation ought to be so structured that the church is built up by it.

1 Thessalonians 5:11,

11 Wherefore exhort one another, and build each other up, even as also ye do. ASV

The passage here is similar to the passage in Eph 4:29, in each case the writer encourages Christians to build up each other through the process of communicating with one another in a verbal way.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF THE CONCEPT OF EDIFICATION

In the assemblies the process of edification may be encouraged and demonstrated by:

The Bible Classes:

It is always building-up {i.e., edifying} to each member and those that visit if the class is well taught by the teacher and there is ample conversation from the class about the lesson texts.

The preaching service:

Ø The preacher ought to prepare his sermon well and deliver it with honesty, humbleness, and plenty of Scripture.

Ø The hearers ought to listen intently for information that will help them grow and become better Christians.

The communion service:

Ø The brother that leads the service ought to speak clearly and soundly about the purpose of the Lord's Supper.

Ø The membership ought to remain in a worshipful state during this and each phase of the service.

The singing service:

Ø The song leader for each service ought to come prepared to do the leading with devotion and zeal.

Ø The congregation ought to follow the lead of the song leader, as all are considerate of the words of each song sung.

The prayers service:

Ø Prayer is a very important part of the edification process because the man selected to lead the prayer is heard by everyone present -- the prayer will therefore edify each person that hears it.

The statements before the contribution is taken up:

Ø Statements or passages of Scripture that are read by the man leading the service will edify and inform the membership and visitors alike.

The persons communication to the assembly through the announcements:

Ø The announcer will inform the congregation about a number of things that might be useful to them about the sick, the shut-in, the plans for building cleaning or construction projects, about classes and teachers, and other coming events that are interesting to the assembled.

The discussion before the service begins:

Ø As the membership and the visitors assemble at the building, the subject matter may cover a number of things, make sure that some of that conversation and greeting of one another is spiritual in nature.

The statements at the close of the service:

Ø When the service is dismissed remember the visitors, the preacher, the song leader, and others that have participated in the service if they have done a good job, give them a pat on the back.

Ø Always be encouraging to everyone that is at the assembly, try to greet everyone.

The conversation after the congregation dismisses:

Ø As you drive home in your automobile, reflect on the good that has been accomplished today.

Ø Discuss the good qualities of the service with the family members; try to strengthen their faith.

The conversation of those that assemble around their table at home -- especially as the family discusses the quality of the service:

Ø Try to find some good thing to say about those that were involved as leaders in the worship.

IS THERE HOPE FOR THE LOST, TODAY?

The question is asked often today by a world population that has been indoctrinated with the teaching of Freud, Engle's, Kant, and Charles Darwin. I still believe that in spite of the false philosophies that have been spread by atheist, and agnostics for the past 5000 years there is a God in heaven that still loves man - cf., John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life" {ASV}. The greatest enemy to understanding of God and God's love for man is man himself, if man will open his eyes of understanding and pursue the knowledge available about God he cannot doubt the good intentions of God. - cf., Matt 11:28-30. > 28Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. > 29Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. > 30For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. ASV

Indeed, God is prepared to aid us in understanding if we will allow Him to do so. You see, God is not unconcerned about us but knows all about us and desires that we come to Him for salvation - cf.,

2 Peter 3:9, > "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some count slackness; but is longsuffering to you-ward, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" {ASV}.

Matt 10:29-31, > 29Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? and not one of them shall fall on the ground without your Father: > 30but the very hairs of your head are all numbered. > 31Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. ASV You see, God knows that we need Him and has so stated in Jer 10:23, "O Jehovah, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps" {ASV}. Garreth L. Clair

WE NEED GOD'S FORGIVENESS

GENESIS 1:1-5 and THE DAYS OF CREATION - Number 32

Garreth L. Clair - February 2004

One of the problems that arises today with the believers of the evolutionary theory (i.e., humanist philosophy) is found in Genesis 1:1-5 with the days of creation. To this subject we want to direct this study.

Genesis 1:1-5,

1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

2 And the earth was waste and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep: and the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.

3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.

4 And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.

5. And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day. (ASV)

EDITOR'S COMMENTS:

The humanist misrepresents the five verses in this text; the humanist declares that there is a great period (i.e., eons) of time between the ending of verse 1 and the beginning of verse 2. This is the first assumption of the humanist that has nothing to sustain it but the humanist's own opinion. The view expressed by the humanist about this first point is remarkably transparent, there is no stop between verse 1 and the other verses in the text. The stop (i.e., eons of time), that the humanist thinks he has found at the end of verse 1 is giant leap into darkness, there is no legitimate reason to accept such a conclusion.

COMMENTS ON THE DAYS OF CREATION:

There is no legitimate reason to impose the philosophy that the days of creation were more or less than 6 - 24 hour - days. As we examine the text with reference to the first day, discussed in verses 1-5 of the text we see that the days were referred to as having a period of darkness (i.e., night.) and a period of light (i.e., day). The text also says that these days had a morning and an evening. As we look at this text it is totally unreasonable to assume that the days of creation were anything other than 6 days of 24 hours each. In addition, it is reasonable to suggest from the account here that the day on which God rested after the creation process, were also 24 hours. Whenever we put this truly reasonable concept together we have seven days involved in the early chapters of the book of Genesis - on these days God created the universe and everything in it in 6 days and rested on day 7.

QUESTIONING GODS ABILITY:

One of the truly sad aspects to the humanist argument is the fact that he seems to question the reasonableness of creating the universe in 6 days. I can think of no greater sin than to question God's ability to do what he says that He does in 6 days. To question these concepts is to question God's ability to create as He has done, that is self-condemning for the humanist. Yet the real problem for the humanist is not that he questions God's ability, he loves his own religion (i.e., humanism) more that he respects the sovereignty of God almighty.

GROWING WEARY IN WELL DOING - DOING GOOD - Number 33

Garreth L. Clair - February 2004

Hebrews 12:1-8,

1 Therefore let us also, seeing we are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

2 looking unto Jesus the author and perfecter of (our) faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising shame, and hath sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

3 For consider him that hath endured such gainsaying of sinners against himself, that ye wax not weary, fainting in your souls.

4 Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin:

5 and ye have forgotten the exhortation which reasoneth with you as with sons, My son, regard not lightly the chastening of the Lord, Nor faint when thou art reproved of him;

6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, And scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

7 It is for chastening that ye endure; God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is there whom (his) father chasteneth not?

8 But if ye are without chastening, whereof all have been made partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. (ASV)

CONSIDER THIS:

As we practice the religion established by Jesus Christ, we repeat over and over again many of the same actions. We understand that there is a Divine Pattern for the practice of true religion, that pattern gives us direction while we live here on earth. Some of the patterns that we repeat repeatedly are:

SALVATION FROM SIN - Everyone is saved from sin the same way, following the same divine pattern.[1]

TRUE WORSHIP - All Christians worship God the same way:[2]

CONGREGATIONAL ORGANIZATION - Each congregation follows the same Divine Pattern, none deviate from the pattern.[3]

EACH CONGREGATION HAS A DIVINE PROGRAM OF WORK - Every congregation understands that the work of the church is three fold.[4]

There are other things that we do repeatedly, the good works that we do become tiresome to some folks. It is the duty of each Christian to fulfill their own responsibilities as members of the Lord's church (i.e., the family of God). We are told by God, not to become weary in well doing for in due season we will reap if we faint not.[5] Paul said to the Thessalonians, not to become weary in well doing.[6] The angel commended the church at Ephesus, by saying that they had not grown wear

[1] Belief, repentance, confession, and baptism through immersion

[2] "In spirit and in truth", assembling, singing, praying, giving, Lord's Supper, teaching

[3] Qualified elders over each congregation, deacons

[4] Evangelize, edify self, care for our needy members

[5] Galatians 6:9

[6] 2 Thessalonians 3:13

SCRIPTURAL WORSHIP - Number 34

Garreth L. Clair - January 2004

There are almost as many formulas for worship in the religious world today as there are religions. Yet, the only acceptable form of worship must have for its basis authority from God's Written Word, cf., 2 Timothy 3:16-17, > "Every scripture inspired of God (is) also profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction which is in righteousness. > That the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work" (ASV).

BASIS OF TRUE WORSHIP:

John 4:24, "God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."

It is apparent from this passage that true worship is offered in spirit and truth, as we come before God to worship we will worship Him with honor and awe. We will worship with the intention of glorifying God; we will worship God according to truth (i.e., that which God has revealed as acceptable via the Written Word).

ACTS OF TRUE WORSHIP:

Assembling - Hebrews 10:24-25 > "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. > Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

On the first day of the week - Acts 20:7, "On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the people and, because he intended to leave the next day, kept on talking until midnight."

Praying - 1 Thessalonians 5:17 < "Pray without ceasing".

Lord's Supper - Luke 22:19-20, > "And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me." > In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, > This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you."

Preaching/teaching - Acts 20:7, "On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the people and, because he intended to leave the next day, kept on talking until midnight."

Singing - Ephesians 5:19, "Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord,"

Colossians 3:16, "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God."

Giving -1 Corinthians 16:1-2, > "Now about the collection for God's people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. > On the first day of every week, each one of you should lay by him in store that there be no gatherings when I come."

CHRISTIANS MUST WORSHIP CORRECTLY:

As we examine the Holy Scriptures, we are convinced that God has revealed to us a pattern for acceptable worship. The pattern is to be followed by Christians whenever they come to God to worship. Any failure by man to follow God's pattern will result in God refusing the worship and condemning the worshipper - Example - Cain, Genesis 4:2-6 and Nadab and Abihu the two cons of Aaron the High Priest, Leviticus 10:1-4. From these scriptures and others, we find that it is always best to obey the instruction of the Lord about everything. Doing God's will, the way that God instructs is always a wise decision for the person that seeks approval from God.

DEDICATION OF ONESELF TO SERVING CHRIST - Number 35

Garreth L. Clair - March 2004

The concept of becoming a Christian and placing oneself under the Kingship, Lordship, and leadership of Jesus Christ is grossly misunderstood by many people today. Possibly, one of the most often misunderstandings that arises, is, "what is my role as a Christian in the world in which I must now live until I die (i.e., physically)?"

ANSWER TO QUESTION

After a person is converted to Christ (i.e., has conformed to the instructions of Christ, Hebrews 5:8-9) that person ought to personally strive for the "prize of the high calling in Christ Jesus" --- cf., 1 Cor 9:24-27, > "24Know ye not that they that run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? Even so

run; that ye may attain. > 25And every man that striveth in the games exerciseth self-control in all things. Now they (do it) to receive a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.

> 26I therefore so run, as not uncertainly; so fight I, as not beating the air: > 27but I buffet my body, and bring it into bondage: lest by any means, after that I have preached to others, I myself should be rejected. (ASV)"

Philippians 3:14, > "14 I press on toward the goal unto the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus"

Editor's comments:

Each person who volunteers to serve in the Lord's Church ought to do so understanding that personal loss and sacrifice might be called for. The early Christians that we read about in the New Testament after the establishment of the church on Pentecost, cf., Acts 2:38-47 surely are examples for us to imitate in these matters. The Book of Acts gives us a picture of the trials, tribulations, and difficulties that the early Christians endured. We are simply suggesting here that there is individual commitment to do the will of God after one is converted, even until the end of life.

SOME THINGS WE OUGHT TO KNOW ABOUT DEDICATION

The dedicated Christian will be observed by others as:

Ø Kind, Ephesians 4:32-5:1 --- 32 and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, even as God also in Christ forgave you.

1 Be ye therefore imitators of God, as beloved children; ASV

Ø Tenderhearted, Ephesians 4:32 --- 32 and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, even as God also in Christ forgave you. ASV

1 Peter 3:8 --- 8 Finally, (be) ye all likeminded, compassionate, loving as brethren, tenderhearted, humble minded: ASV

Ø Patient, Romans 12:12 --- 12 rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing steadfastly in prayer;

James 5:7-8 --- 7 Be patient therefore, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient over it, until it receive the early and latter rain.

8 Be ye also patient; establish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord is at hand. ASV

Ø Longsuffering, Ephesians 4:2, --- 2 with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

Colossians 1:11 --- 11 strengthened with all power, according to the might of his glory, unto all patience and longsuffering with joy; ASV

Colossians 3:12 --- 12 Put on therefore, as God's elect, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, longsuffering; ASV

Ø Loving of neighbors, Romans 13:8-10 --- 8 Owe no man anything, save to love one another: for he that loveth his neighbor hath fulfilled the law.

9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not covet, and if there be any other commandment, it is summed up in this word, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.

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

The Lord, Matthew 22:37 --- 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. ASV

Of brethren, Romans 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 affectionate one to another; in honor preferring one another;

NOTE:

There are many facets to the Christian who is dedicated to serve that are observable to other people; these listed above are merely a sampling of the good qualities that emanate from him. These good qualities have an effect upon those that observe the dedicated Christians lifestyle. This is surely true for the Lord indicates this at cf., Matthew 5:14-15,

14 Ye are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid.

15 Neither do (men) light a lamp, and put it under the bushel, but on the stand; and it shineth unto all that are in the house. ASV

It is a fact that needs to be impressed on all, the good that many Christians do is never know to them as they continue to serve God with dedication according to truth.

HAPPINESS MAY BE FOUND IN THE DEDICATED CHRISTIAN

The word faithfulness may be substituted for the word dedication as one considers the subject we are now exploring. The Word of God is full of teaching about faithfulness (i.e., dedication), please observe some of the thoughts that indicate dedication to God where the word faithfulness is used.

2 Chronicles 31:20-21,

20 And thus did Hezekiah throughout all Judah; and he wrought that which was good and right and faithful before Jehovah his God.

21 And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered. ASV

Daniel 6:4,

4 Then the presidents and the satraps sought to find occasion against Daniel as touching the kingdom; but they could find no occasion nor fault, forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him.

Ephesians 6:21-22,

21 But that ye also may know my affairs, how I do, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things:

22 whom I have sent unto you for this very purpose, that ye may know our state, and that he may comfort your hearts. ASV

TO BE FAITHFUL (i.e., dedicated) IS TO BE HAPPY

Psalms 37:37, "Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright; for there is a (happy) end to the man of peace" ASV.

Evangelism - Number 36

Garreth L. Clair

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”

GOD INTERACTS WITH HUMANITY - Number 37

(From the creation to the end)

I. FROM ADAM TO CHRIST:

1. Adam and Eve and their family, Genesis 1:1-5:32

2. The Patriarchal Age (Head of the family spiritual leader) cf., Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob

3. The Law of Moses, From the giving of the Law at Mt Sinai to the establishment of the church of Christ, cf. Acts 2:1-47

4. Prophecy of the church (i.e., the Kingdom), Isaiah 2:2-4; Daniel 2:36-46; Micah 4:1-2

5. The 400 Silent Years (I.e. between the Old and New Testaments)

From MalachI to Matthew

6. John the baptist and his mission, Matt 3:1-6, “In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!" 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: "The voice of one crying in the wilderness : 'Prepare the way of the LORD; Make His paths straight." 4 Now John himself was clothed in camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him 6 and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins” (NKJV).

7. Jesus Christ and His Church (ORIGIN), Matthew 16:18

II. FROM CHURCH ESTABLISHMENT TO THE PRESENT:

1. The church (I.e. kingdom-government), promised by Christ, Matthew 16:18

2. The establishment of the church of Christ, Acts 2:1-47

3. A departure from the faith is predicted, 2 Tim 3:1-5, “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: 2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, 4 traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away” (NKJV)!

4. The Reformation, Martin Luther, etc

5. The Restoration Movement in America, Walter Scott, Barton Stone, the Campbells, etc.

6. The Missionary Society and Instrumental Music controversy,

(Division in the church - liberal versus conservative).

7. The work and organizational structure of the church controversy,

(Division in the church - liberal versus conservative).

III. WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD (SUMMARY)?

1. The return of Christ to judge humankind, John 12:48; Acts 10:42-43, “42 And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead. 43 To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins” (NKJV).

2. Assignment of all humanity to either Heaven or Hell (I.e. the Lake of Fire), 2 Cor 5:9-11, “Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. 11 Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences” (NKJV).

3. Deliver the Kingdom to the Father, 1 Cor 15:20-28, “But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. 23 But each one in his own order: Christ the first fruits, afterward those who are Christ's at His coming. 24 Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power. 25 For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet. 26 The last enemythat will be destroyed is death. 27 For "He has put all things under His feet." But when He says "all things are put under Him," it is evident that He who put all things under Him is excepted. 28 Now when all things are made subject to Him, then the Son Himself will also be subject to Him who put all things under Him, that God may be all in all” (NKJV).

4. Eternity of Joy for the judged righteous, 1 Thess 4:16-18, “16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.”

5. Eternal torment for the wicked, Rev 20:11-15, “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. 14 Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire . This is the second death. 15 And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire” (NKJV). Glc …

GO, DO THE WORK OF EVANGELIZING - Number 38

Garreth L. Clair

Today as perhaps in no time before, people are simply turning themselves off when the question of the religion in the Bible is discussed. I do not know why this has happened but as I attempt to talk to others about the things of God (i.e. the God of the Bible), there is a sense of apathy, of disinterest, and generally an attitude that says, “I am not interested.” I do not understand why this is happening to apparently intelligent people, who surely know about God, the Bible, religion in general, the terrorists of 9-11, and the many attempts by clergymen on TV and in the printed media that have been trying to create an interest in them toward spiritual things. Perhaps the main reason that most people seem to have no interest is simply because they really do not have any interest in going to heaven. Perhaps these people do not believe in a heaven and a hell and are content to live out their lives in whatever fashion that they personally desire without considering God or the things of God. On the other hand, perhaps many of these seemingly disinterested people in the things of God are like those that the Lord described in Matt 15:10-20,

NOTE THE READING: “10 When He had called the multitude to Himself, He said to them, "Hear and understand: 11 Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man." 12 Then His disciples came and said to Him, "Do You know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying?" 13 But He answered and said, "Every plant which My heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted. 14 Let them alone. They are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch." 15 Then Peter answered and said to Him, "Explain this parable to us." 16 So Jesus said, "Are you also still without understanding? 17 Do you not yet understand that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and is eliminated? 18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. 19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. 20 These are the things which defile a man, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man” (NKJV).

While we consistently have a heart that tells us to help others understand God, His purpose, and the terror that is to overtake unrepentant mankind when Christ comes to judge all mankind, cf. John 12:48; 2 Peter 3:10-13. We are sometimes impatient, and disappointed in many, finding ourselves thinking, “I do not care anymore, if they are lost – that is just too bad.” – we cannot become despondent instead of cheerful; we must keep on doing that which the Lord has instructed us to do. We are to always spread the gospel truth to everyone and be content to do it as often as we have opportunity. We must remember, the sowing and the going are duties that we must take seriously, the Lord will give the increase in due time as stated in 1 Cor 3:5-12,

NOTE THE READING:

“5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? 6 I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. 7 So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. 8 Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor. 9 For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, you are God's building. 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” (NKJV).

Therefore, let us so conduct ourselves as is expected by God, let us go into all the world and teach the gospel to everyone – Matthew 28:18-20.

Therefore, let us go into the highways and the byways and d seek out the lost, - with the hope of converting them to Christ – Matthew 14:13-14.

Let us heed the teaching of godly preachers and teachers so that we too will be able to teach others the right way – 2 Timothy 2:2.

"I CANNOT LIVE THE LIFE" - Number 39

Recently it has become obvious to me that many in our society do not understand the value system of the true Christian. I am not sure what has created this situation; I simply have detected that it does exist with many people that I have approached in recent months. Many of these people have no idea of the Christian's philosophy, ideals, lifestyle, and are themselves caught up in discouragement, unhappiness, and disillusionment with life in general. Many of the people that are currently in the world subscribe to the following philosophy, "If I do nothing, I will loose nothing -- if I stay where I am I will be no worse off than I am now." The sad part about those that possess the above attitude is, this attitude, when applied to spiritual things creates an almost impossible obstacle for the person to overcome when they are confronted with the concept of the gospel. You see, the gospel requires that the sinner change their lifestyle. The problem is, the person possessed with such an attitude will find the challenge of the gospel more than they are willing to accept.

Many times we talk to and sometimes have discussions (i.e., even classes) with such people only to find out that they are unwilling to make the necessary change in lifestyle that the Word of God (i.e., the Lord) requires, cf., Heb 5:8-9 -- "though he was a Son, yet learned obedience by the things which he suffered; and having been made perfect, he became unto all them that obey him the author of eternal salvation;" (ASV) Many people that have this attitude feel that the standards set by the Bible are too strict for them to keep, that they cannot measure up or keep the instructions. These people are simply afraid of failure and many of them are already familiar with failing at other things and are unwilling to make an attempt at living the lifestyle that the Bible portrays, cf.,

Rom 6:1-13, "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?

2 God forbid. We who died to sin, how shall we any longer live therein?

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;

6 knowing this, that our old man was crucified with (him), that the body of sin might be done away, that so we should no longer be in bondage to sin;

7 for he that hath died is justified from sin.

8 But if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him;

9 knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death no more hath dominion over him.

10 For the death that he died, he died unto sin once: but the life that he liveth, he liveth unto God.

11 Even so reckon ye also yourselves to be dead unto sin, but alive unto God in Christ Jesus.

12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey the lusts thereof:

13 neither present your members unto sin

(as) instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves unto God, as alive from the dead, and your members (as) instruments of righteousness unto God.

WE NEED UNDERSTANDING AND PATIENCE:

In order to help these people come to Christ we must exercise great patience and understanding. We need to begin teaching them from the point that they are at and proceed patiently toward the desired goal (i.e., to break down that resistance to change, cf., 2 Tim 4:1-2,

"I charge (thee) in the sight of God, and of Christ Jesus, who shall judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be urgent in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." (ASV) We must first convince them that others fail too, that everyone makes mistakes and that even Christians sometimes fall. We must show them that mistakes do occur and that we must not quit because of mistakes but that we must learn from our mistakes and continue to serve God in spite of our imperfections. The Word of God teaches us that we may fail sometimes -- cf., Gal 6:1-2, "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. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ". (ASV)

EMPHSISE THE CHRISTIAN'S HOPE:

Teach this person that there is more to life than is obvious to those of this world, there is the Christian's hope of eternal life. The Christian is looking beyond this present world and sees something exceedingly precious and priceless -- cf., Rom 2:7, "to them that by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and incorruption, eternal life:" 2 Cor 4:17-18, "For our light affliction, which is for the moment, worketh for us more and more exceedingly an eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal." Heb 11:10, for he looked for the city which hath the foundations, whose builder and maker is God. (ASV) We ought also to teach this person that God has made allowances for His children that fall from grace -- cf., Acts 8:22-24, "Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray the Lord, if perhaps the thought of thy heart shall be forgiven thee. For I see that thou art in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity. And Simon answered and said, Pray ye for me to the Lord, that none of the things which ye have spoken come upon me." (ASV)

1 Cor 10:13, "There hath no temptation taken you but such as man can bear: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation make also the way of escape, that ye may be able to endure it." 1 John 1:9-10, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us." (ASV)

CONCLUDING THOUGHTS:

We may not convert many people with this attitude but we may convert some of them. The Lord has instructed us that we are to "sow the good seed" and HE will "give the increase."

Cf., 1 Cor 3:5-7, "Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?

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

7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase." (KJV) So then, let us labor together to convert those with this attitude just as diligently as we would with any person that is not a child of God.

REMEMBER THIS:

There are many people that are still in the world. Many of those in the world do not know us nor do they understand our motives. Because of this we must continue to approach everyone with the patience and understanding than ought to characterize all Christians while they do personal work with others. Let us never shirk or become discouraged in our efforts to convert the lost of this world, this is part of our work as Christians -- cf., Matt 28:18-19, "And Jesus came to them and spake unto them, saying, All authority hath been given unto me in heaven and on earth. Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit:"

"KEEP ON KEEPING ON"

We must understand that it is not always easy to do the right thing, yet in spite of our situation we must endeavour with all the effort of mind and body to stand firm for God’s way. We will surely put forth the effort! Garreth L. Clair

JEWS, GENTILES & THE CHURCH - Number 40

Garreth L. Clair

According to the religious philosophy of many religious theologians today, the Jews (i.e., those who claim to be descendants of ancient Israelites), have some special dispensation that qualifies them for special treatment by God. The special treatment consists of their continuing allegiance to the "Law of Moses" and those rites and rituals that pertained to it. This philosophy also states that the Jews can be saved without accepting the conditions of salvation that are plainly and consistently taught in the pages of both the Old and the New Testaments (i.e., throughout the Bible - the entire 66 books).

A FALSE RELIGIOUS PHILOSOPHY:

The contention that the Jews may be saved from their sin without submitting to the Messiah's conditions of salvation are completely without Scriptural support and must be rejected by "serious Bible students" everywhere. It is freely admitted by all reputable and honest scholars that the "Law of Moses" given to the descendants of Israel at Mount Sinai was given specifically to them, I know of no serious Bible student that would deny this. The problem we have with the present hypothesis is, the "Law of Moses" was never given to the Israelites as a permanent fixture but was to lead them to the Messianic age (i.e., the Law of Moses was a schoolmaster to bring the Israelites to Christ - cf. Galatians 3:24-26

24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.

26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.).

A NEW PRIESTHOOD, A NEW MEDIATOR, A NEW COVENANT, ETC:

The author of the book of Hebrews considers this problem and attempts to clear up any false view that his contemporary Jewish brethren had with the teaching of Christ and the newly established church (i.e., Matthew 16:18; Acts 2:1-47; etc.). Look especially at the context of Hebrews 8, there the language shows that the old law has been replaced with the law of Christ.

COMPLETE EQUALITY IN THE CHURCH OF CHRIST:

Two problem with the "Law of Moses," it was a fleshly law; it was a law that pertained to one nation. Yet, under the Messianic Kingdom (i.e., the Church of Christ) that He established on the first Pentecost after His resurrection salvation from sin was made available to all nations (i.e., all people of all races and origins - Matt 28:18-20) on the same conditions:

THE CONDITIONS STATED:

Acts 2:36-41,

36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

38 Then Peter said unto them, repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.

40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.

41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

JEWS AND GENTILES ARE ONE IN CHRIST (i.e., the Church of Christ):

Jesus Christ prayed that all of the believers, both Jew and Gentile might be one: John 17:20-21,

20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. (KJV)

Paul makes it abundantly clear, that acceptance of the gospel by either Jew or Greek (i.e., Gentile) was essential to the obtaining of salvation from sin.

Romans 1:16;

16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

PAUL MAKES IT CLEAR, BOTH JEW AND GENTILE ARE SAVED BY CHRIST:

Rom 2:28-3:12; 3:19-25;

28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:

29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God

Chapter 3

1 What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision?

2 Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.

3 For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect?

4 God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.

5 But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man)

6 God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world?

7 For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner?

8 And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just.

9 What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;

10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:

11 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.

12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one

19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.

20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.

21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;

22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

Garreth L. Clair - April 2002

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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Count from November 2008 to the present.