FROM THE PREACHER'S DESK

These studies began during the year 2011; I will add to this file from time to time as New material comes into my mind or to answer a question submitted.

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. 2 Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. 3 For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. 4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. KJV

Why then is this people of Jerusalem slidden back by a perpetual backsliding? they hold fast deceit, they refuse to return. KJV

But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.

He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. KJV

33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things

shall be added unto you. 34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow

shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. KJV

He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. KJV

For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. KJV

Matt. 13:22 - He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. KJV

37 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38 And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. KJV

The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. KJV

And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. KJV

Had not considered the cost of time and effort that is spent in faithful service.

28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?

29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, KJV

12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. 13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. 16 Do not err, my beloved brethren. KJV

14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. 16 Do not err, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. 18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. KJV

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. KJV

The Lord has encouraged His People {i.e. Christians} to assemble on the first day of each week. This assembly is to include Singing, prayer, teaching, free-will giving, and the Lord’s Supper.

You ought to attend services of the Lord’s Church each Sunday so that you might gain spiritual strength along with other Christians in worship of the One True God.

Acts 20:7 - And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.

Hebrews 10:25 - Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, KJV glclair@aol.com – May 9, 2012

Pride and prejudice among those that claim to be faithful members of Christ’s Church is one of the most divisive characteristics that exist among brethren today. There are certainly grounds upon which we must separate ourselves from those that openly advocate false doctrine {i.e. concepts and action that clearly violates the teaching of the Bible}. Indeed; there will always be disputes among the righteous and those disputes are not always resolved {i.e. they continue among brethren like cancer cells in the physical body}; to consistently be a source of distancing brethren from each other. This is a problem that seems to be consistent in the brotherhood of disciples during my lifetime.

I have seen the above alluded to situation in nearly every part of the country where it

has been my good fortune to serve our Lord as a gospel preacher. I have observed that the region of the country where one works for God does not alter the condition of the brotherhood at all; whatever is the mind set of brethren in the North; South East, or West will be found to be consistent with most of the congregations in any other section of the country. Indeed whatever problem that arises among brethren in one part of the country will soon be delivered by phone, email, or personal contact to all other allies of those involved in the dispute therefore creating a brotherhood disturbance that should not happen.

These problems often are personal disputes that become brotherhood problems resulting in gossip and tale-bearing of persons, write-ups in whatever brotherhood publication that the one of the disputants subscribes to, etc. This type of problems among brethren ought to be resolved on the personal level {i.e. by the congregation that these men or women attend}. There is no Scriptural grounds that authorize a brother or sister that have a gripe or dispute with another to disrupt and spread their hostility to others who are not involved (i.e. locally or through the brotherhood}.

1- If a brother or sister advocates a false teaching – takes a stand that is a violation of Scripture; the elders of the congregation ought to deal with this matter as soon as it become obvious that the issue exists in the congregation.

A. The elders or those selected to intercede in this matter should go to the person in sin and seek to restore him/her to faithful service.

Galatians 6:1 - 1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. KJV

Matthew 18:15-17 - 15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. 16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.

C. As a last effort to correct the sin or sinners involved in a violation of Holy Scripture;

1 Cor. 13:17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. KJV

B. 1 Corinthians 5:11-13 - 11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. 12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? 13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.

D. If a person {regardless of his/her position in the congregation} spreads false teaching about the music, Lord’s Supper, baptism, salvation from sin, the work of the church, marriage-divorce-and remarriage, etc. that should be taken care of on the local lever- the individual or individuals involved should be dealt with spiritually and quickly.

The old adage “Let sleeping dogs lie” is not appropriate when sin and false doctrine is taught, practiced, or tolerated in a congregation of God’s people. Brethren, may we do a better job of policing the members of the congregation where we worship according to the Bible’s formula than some in the past have done. This suggestion includes elders, preachers, Bible class teachers, indeed; every member in the congregation.

Editor's note: In future studies I will utilize this heading to discuss some passage of Scripture or some concept that pertains to the Bible. Our discussion this month will deal with the question of eternal punishment. Will there be eternal punishment for the people that obey not the laws and instructions of God? Some definitions need to be established as we look at this subject:

1st The concept of eternal punishment is discussed in the scriptures [i.e., the Bible -- the 66 Books of the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures]. If one does not accept the Bible as THE WORD OF GOD, establishing the validity of eternal punishment for the wicked is difficult. Because this is so many people do not accept the doctrine of eternal punishment -- they do not believe the Bible to be infallible [i.e., without error].

2nd Those that accept the Bible as the WORD OF GOD will also accept the reality of eternal punishment for the wicked. Bible believers accept the fact of eternal punishment because of the following. Definition of the word "ETERNAL" as used in the Bible follows:

"1. aion ^165^, "an age," is translated "eternal" in <Eph. 3:11>, lit., "(purpose) of the ages" (marg.), and <1 Tim. 1:17>, lit. "(king) of the ages" (marg.). See AGE.

2. aionios ^166^ "describes duration, either undefined but not endless, as in <Rom. 16:25; 2 Tim. 1:9; Titus 1:2>; or undefined because endless

"The predominant meaning of aionios, that in which it is used everywhere in the NT, save the places noted above, may be seen in <2 Cor. 4:18>, where it is set in contrast with proskairos, lit., `for season, and in <Philem. 15>, where only in the NT it is used without a noun. Moreover it is used of persons and things which are in their nature endless, as, e. g., of God, <Rom. 16:26>; of His power, <1 Tim. 6:16>, and of His glory, <1 Pet. 5:10>; of the Holy Spirit, <Heb. 9:14>; of the redemption effected by Christ, <Heb. 9:12>, and of the consequent salvation of men, <5:9>, as well as of His future rule, <2 Pet. 1:11>, which is elsewhere declared to be without end, <Luke 1:33>; of the life received by those who believe in Christ, <John 3:16>, concerning whom He said, `they shall never perish,' <10:28>, and of the resurrection body, <2 Cor. 5:1>, elsewhere said to be `immortal,' <1 Cor. 15:53>, in which that life will be finally realized, <Matt. 25:46; Titus 1:2>.

"Aionios is also used of the sin that `hath never forgiveness,' <Mark 3:29>, and of the judgment of God, from which there is no appeal, <Heb. 6:2>, and of the fire, which is one of its instruments, <Matt. 18:8; 25:41; Jude 7>, and which is elsewhere said to be `unquenchable,' <Mark 9:43>.

"The use of aionios here shows that the punishment referred to in <2 Thes. 1:9>, is no temporary, but final, and, accordingly, the phraseology shows that its purpose is not remedial but retributive." --- From Notes on Thessalonians, by Hogg and Vine, pp 232, 233.

2 In my Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I come again, and will receive you unto myself; that where I am, (there) ye may be also. 4 And whither I go, ye know the way.

5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; how know we the way? 6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no one cometh unto the Father, but by me. ASV

10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where are also the beast and the false prophet; and they shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. ASV

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

Knowledge of the realities of life, death, and what is after death is important to every person. The wise understand that now is the time to prepare the soul for eternity. The apostle Peter stated clearly in 1 Peter 1:24 the importance of understanding that life is fleeting, please note Peter's statement: "For, All flesh is as grass, And all the glory thereof as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower falleth:" ASV

2. veryone will eventually return to the dust (i.e., will die) from which they came -- cf. Ecclesiastes 12:7, “Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it." KJV

{Even though many realize that life is short and they are unsaved, many will not (i.e., CANNOT) be saved -- those that will not be saved are}

A. One must want to be saved, Acts 2:37, "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?

B. Each person is personally involved in their conversion, becoming a Christian is not a passive affair!

8 rendering vengeance to them that know not God, and to them that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus: 9 who shall suffer punishment, (even) eternal destruction from the face of

1 Now there were some present at that very season who told him of the Galilaeans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. 2 And he answered and said unto them, Think ye that these Galilaeans were sinners above all the Galilaeans, because they have suffered these things? 3 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all in like manner perish. 4 Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and killed them, think ye that they were offenders above all the men that dwell in Jerusalem? 5 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. ASV

5. THE CARELESS, THOSE THAT WILL NOT TAKE THE TIME TO KNOW THEIR RESPONSIBILITY TO GOD:

14 Let them alone: they are blind guides. And if the blind guide the blind,both

20 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, cannot love God whom he hath not seen. 21 And this commandment have we from him, that he who loveth God love

{They have no sin - They cannot be saved from something that they do not have}

1 In that hour came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven? 2 And he called to him a little child, and set him in the midst of them, 3 and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye turn, and become as little children, ye shall in no wise enter into the kingdom of heaven. ASV

{They have no sin - They cannot be saved from something that they do not have}

1 In that hour came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven? 2 And he called to him a little child, and set him in the midst of them,

3 and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye turn, and become as little children, ye shall in no wise enter into the kingdom of heaven. ASV

An infant child is born in a safe state (i.e. condition), they have no sin and therefore cannot be saved from something that they do not have.

Infant children (i.e. before they are accountable), have no sin and are therefore safe in God’s site – see, Matt 19:13-15, ”Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 But Jesus said, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven." 15 And He laid His hands on them and departed from there” (NKJV).

Mark 10:14-16, “14 But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. 15 Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it." 16 And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them” (NKJV).

A infant child cannot be saved from something that they do not have and cannot react to either positively (i.e. accept) or negatively (i.e. reject).

For a person to be guilty of sin, they must be accountable to God – they must be able to believe, repent, confess Christ, and be baptized for the remission of sin, an infant child cannot do any of these things – they are unaccountable.

If I can help you with the Galatians study, do send it to me and I will do my best.

1. Indeed, there are many people that cannot be saved from the eternal torment that is coming to the wicked.

2. Those that cannot be saved are those that will not allow God to save them for whatever reason.

3. God is willing and able to save everyone but everyone will not be saved from sin and go

4. It is a fact, the infant child cannot be saved from sin -- an infant child has no sin

16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "The just shall live by faith." 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man — and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. 24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, NKJV

The Lord has encouraged His People {i.e. Christians} to assemble on the first day of each week. This assembly is to include Singing, prayer, teaching, free-will giving, and the Lord’s Supper.

You ought to attend services of the Lord’s Church each Sunday so that you might gain spiritual strength along with other Christians in worship of the One True God.

Hebrews 10:25 - Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. {KJV}

25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, KJV glclair@aol.com - April 14, 20112

The teaching of the Bible is, perhaps the best source of information about how to conduct ones self as one interacts with other people. The Bible teaches a number of things that many people have forgotten or have no knowledge of because they refuse to open the Bible and examine its contents. Please notice the following points of character that are taught via the Bible:

8 My son, hear the instruction of thy father, And forsake not the law of thy mother: 9 For they shall be a chaplet of grace unto thy head, And chains about thy neck. ASV

22 How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? And scoffers delight them in scoffing, And fools hate knowledge?

1 My son, forget not my law; But let thy heart follow my instruction: 2 For length of days, and years of life, And peace, will they add to thee. ASV

3 Let not kindness and truth forsake thee: Bind them about thy neck; Write

7 Be not wise in thine own eyes; Fear Jehovah, and depart from evil: 8 It will be

27 Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, When it is in the power of thy hand to do it. 28 Say not unto thy neighbor, Go, and come again, And to-morrow I will give; When thou hast it by thee. 29 Devise not evil against thy neighbor, Seeing he dwelleth securely by thee. trive not with a man without cause, If he have done thee no harm. ASV

23 eep thy heart with all diligence; For out of it are the issues of life. ASV

10. Proverbs 6:16-19 16There are six things which Jehovah hates; Yea, seven which are an abomination unto him: 17 Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood; 18 A heart that deviseth wicked purposes, Feet that are swift in running to mischief, 19 false witness that uttereth lies, And he that

13 This is) the end of the matter; all hath been heard: fear God, and keep his

Preacher Clair; where do you get the church of Christ idea for salvation in view of John 3:16?

John 3:16 taken in context refers to the goodness of God by providing a sacrifice for man's sins. Sin is never forgiven by God without doing all that God requires about any subject. The source that {i.e. rightly divided} of all truth is the Bible {John 8:32}.

When the sinner hears {i.e. understands} that they are a sinner then they may become a Christian by …

By realizing they are lost - 1 John 3:4 - Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the (i.e. Divine) law.

Rom. 3:23 - For all have sinned , and come short of the glory of God; KJV

Acts 11:26 - And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. KJV

Ephesians 5:14-17 - 14 that is why God says in the Scriptures, "Awake, O sleeper, and rise up from the dead; and Christ shall give you light." 15 So be careful how you act; these are difficult days. Don't be fools; be wise: make the most of every opportunity you have for doing good. 17 Don't act thoughtlessly, but try to find out and do whatever the Lord wants you to. TLB

One of the serious misunderstandings that people accept in the world today is; “we have plenty of time to get everything done correctly later.” This mindset is the enemy of those that need to get their life corrected by God’s standard}. Indeed; many people may be possessed with good intentions to do what is right after-a-while; but their time may be limited. You see; many people will underestimate their length of time God allows them to live. Whenever a person makes plans that do not include “walking with God” (i.e. living according to God’s standard}; they are in danger of loosing their soul and of expecting any eternal joy prepared for the faithful of God {cf. - Ephesians 5:14-17 - 14 That is why God says in the Scriptures, "Awake, O sleeper, and rise up from the dead; and Christ shall give you light." 15 So be careful how you act; these are difficult days. Don't be fools; be wise: make the most of every opportunity you have for doing good. 17 Don't act thoughtlessly, but try to find out and do whatever the Lord wants you to. {TLB}

Since God has provided mankind with a roadmap to HEAVEN SOMEDAY; man ought to seek the pathway that will eventually lead to that promised eternal joy, happiness, and love discussed and revealed in the Bible. Indeed; man’s intuition, senses, hopes and desires often are elusive and difficult to find or understand without some help; indeed; God therefore provides mankind with a clear vision and understanding of those things needed to “redeem the time” and prepare for physical death, the resurrection, and that final assignment for all that live now and for all those that have lived in the past. That which God provides for man’s guidance through life and all difficulties while living here is the BIBLE. Yes; God says to mankind in Jeremiah 10:23 – “it is not in man that walks {i.e. lives} to determine his own steps” of life here on earth. Why not look diligently at God’s instruction for you? Study the contents of God’s Book and attend Bible study whenever opportunity presents itself? You must surely know that your life here is short and full of difficulty; that your life is short and all hopes for heaven in the after-a-while are dependent upon your living for God while here. Indeed; will you prepare for heaven while you have the opportunity? Only you can make your calling an election sure – cf. 2 Peter 1:3-11 - 3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; 6 and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; 7 and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. 8

for if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But he that lacks these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. 10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye

do these things, ye shall never fall: 11 For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. KJV --- glclair@aol.com --- 1-27-2012

According to the teaching of the Bible every person that has lived on the earth will one day be resurrected; to live again.

1 Cor. 15:19-30, 19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. 24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 27 For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith, all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. 28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. 29 Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead? 30 And why stand we in jeopardy every hour? (KJV)

This is a great encouragement to people living today; for if they will someday be resurrected it is beneficial to do whatever is necessary so that the new being (i.e. the resurrected being will be better than that which has died (i.e. physically) and is buried in the grave.

Indeed, the new resurrected body will be better than the old fleshly body that we currently reside in:

1 Cor. 15:42-50, 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: 43 It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: 44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. 45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit.46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. 47 The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. 48 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. (KJV)

The quality of the future, resurrected being will be determined by the decisions that are made while we live in our current body (i.e. the fleshly, earthly). The resurrected body will be different; it will be spiritual and eternal. There will never be a change from the spiritual body to something else for when the resurrected being is created that being has been perfected by Almighty God.

1 Cor. 15:22-28, 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. 24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 27 For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith, all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. 28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. (KJV)

You should prepare for the resurrection of your physical body now! You do not know how much earth time you have left; therefore it is imperative that you make your hope of that future resurrection sure Peter 1:10-11, 10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure : for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: 11 For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (KJV)

Eph. 5:14-24, 14 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. 15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, 16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. 18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; 20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; 21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. 22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body. (KJV) glclair@aol.com -

Being faithful, making a commitment are two phrases that religious people use in conversation about their response to the Bible’s teaching. Most religious people think that they are faithful or that they are committed to their religion. Although this sounds good, unless their relationship to God is based upon truth and the compliance to truth [John 8:32, “32 and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” ASV] - John 17:17, “17 Sanctify them in the truth: thy word is truth” ASV.] - John 12:48-50, “48 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my sayings, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I spoke, the same shall judge him in the last day. 49 For I spoke not from myself; but the Father that sent me, he hath given me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. 50 And I know that his commandment is life eternal: the things therefore which I speak, even as the Father hath said unto me, so I speak” ASV]. their faithfulness or commitment is vain [Matt.15:8-9, “8 This people honors me with their lips; But their heart is far from me. 9 But in vain do they worship me, Teaching (as their) doctrines the precepts of men.” ASV], for they are still in their sins and have need of being converted to Christ.

DEFINITIONS: FAITHFULNESS (Heb. 'emuna, "faithfulness, stability"). An attribute ascribed to God in many places, especially in the Psalms (Ps 36:5; 89:2,5,8; Isa 11:5; etc.), which exhibits His character as worthy of the love and confidence of man and assures us that He will certainly fulfill His promises as well as execute His threats against sin. It covers "temporal blessings (1 Tim 4:8; Ps 84:11; Isa 33:16); spiritual blessings (1 Cor 1:9); support in temptation (10:13) and persecution (1 Peter 4:12-13; Isa 41:10); sanctifying afflictions (Heb 12:4-12); directing in difficulties (2 Chron. 32:22; Ps 32:8); enabling to persevere (Jer. 32:40), and bringing to glory (1 John 2:25)." Faithfulness is also predicated of men: "he was a faithful man" (Heb. "trustworthy," Neh 7:2); "who then is the faithful and sensible steward?" (Luke 12:42; etc.). The faithful was the general and favorite name in the early church to denote baptized persons. -- (From The New Unger's Bible Dictionary. Originally published by Moody Press of Chicago, Illinois. Copyright © 1988.)

COMMITMENT: Pronunciation: k&-'mit-m&nt Function: noun1 a: an act of committing to a charge or trust: as 2 a: an agreement or pledge to do something in the future; especially: an engagement to assume a financial obligation at a future date b: something pledged c: the state or an instance of being obligated or emotionally impelled <a commitment to a cause>

CONSIDER THIS: Indeed, faithfulness and/or commitment to God and to the Divine instruction received via the Written Word are necessary qualities of the true Christian. But remember this, before one can be faithful to, or committed to God, one must be one of His Children. If you have not followed the teaching of God about conversion revealed to mankind then your commitment or acts of faithfulness are vain – see also Matt 7:22-23, “22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy by thy name, and by thy name cast out demons, and by thy name do many mighty works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity” ASV.

QUALITIES INVOLVED IN FAITHFULNESS [i.e. COMMITMENT]CREDITABILITY [i.e. Trust] IS A QUALITY OF THE FAITHFUL:

Prov. 11:13, “ He that goeth about as a tale-bearer revealeth secrets; But he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth a matter” ASV.

Prov. 14:5, “A faithful witness will not lie; But a false witness uttereth lies

THE PERSON WHO IS FAITHFUL IN GOD’S WORK WILL BE BLESSED, THE PERSON WHO PURSUES OTHER THINGS WILL BE PUNISHED: Prov. 28:20, “A faithful man shall abound with blessings; But he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be unpunished” ASV.

Luke 16:10-12, “10 He that is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much: and he that is unrighteous in a very little is unrighteous also in much. 11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true (riches)? 12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another's, who will give you that which is your own” ASV.

1 Cor 4:2, “Here, moreover, it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” Greek Definitions:

STEWARD, STEWARDSHIP- A. Nouns. 1. oikonomos NT:3623 primarily denoted "the manager of a household or estate" (oikos, "a house," nemo, "to arrange"), "a steward" (such were usually slaves or freedmen), Luke 12:42; 16:1,3,8; 1 Cor 4:2; Gal 4:2, RV (KJV, "governors"); in Rom. 16:23, the "treasurer (RV) of a city (see CHAMBERLAIN, Note); it is used metaphorically, in the wider sense, of a "steward" in general, (a) of preachers of the gospel and teachers of the Word of God, 1 Cor 4:1; (b) of elders or bishops in churches, Titus 1:7; (c) of believers generally, 1 Peter 4:10.2. epitropos NT:2012 is rendered "steward" in Matt 20:8; Luke 8:3: see GUARDIAN.3. oikonomia NT:3622 is rendered "stewardship" in Luke 16:2,3,4, and in the RV in 1 Cor 9:17: see DISPENSATION.B. Verb. oikonomeo NT:3621, akin to A, Nos. 1 and 3, signifies "to be a house steward," Luke 16:2. In the Sept., Ps 112:5. (From Vine's Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words, Copyright © 1985, Thomas Nelson Publishers.)

2 Tim. 2:2, “And the things which thou hast heard from me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also” ASV. CONCLUSION: Are you faithful {i.e. committed} in your relationship to God and to others in the Family of God? Each Christian is to be faithful in everything, not just in the things that are apparent but also in the not too visible lifestyle. Faithfulness is to permeate our whole life including thoughts, unseen plans, and hopes for the future. Christians are to be completely committed to the Biblical instructed lifestyle after initial obedience [i.e. belief, repentance, confession, and baptism]. glclair@aol.com Wednesday, December 14, 2011

One may apply these phrases to many of the members of the church where you attend?

John 3:16-17 - 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. {KJV}

Acts 2:37-39 - 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. {KJV} glclair@aol.com - December 8, 2011

2. Unless God’s revelation of Himself in Christ was a meaningless gesture, we must reach out to people.

3. Unless Jesus was mistaken when He created the church, we must reach out to people.

4. Unless the disciples misunderstood what Jesus told them to do, we must reach out to people.

5. Unless no one is presently in bondage to sin, we must reach out to people.

6. Unless the penalty for sin is no longer death, we must reach out to people.

7. Unless the gospel is no longer “good news,” we must reach out to people.

8. Unless God’s “whosoever will” invitation has been withdrawn, we must reach out to people.

9. Unless the kingdom of God has vanished from the earth, we must reach out to people.

10. Unless Christ’s second coming for His own has been canceled, we must reach out to people. --- Anonymous

James 2:8-9 - 8 If ye fulfill the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shall love thy neighbor as thyself, ye do well: 9 But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. {KJV}

Acts 5:42 - and daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ. {KJV}

baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. {KJV}

Philippians 4:8 - Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. {KJV}

Titus 1:15 - Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. {KJV}

1 Peter 1:22 - Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: {KJV}

Indeed; there is a way that is right with God for every person, we must each decide yes or no; we will faithfully serve the Lord according to His instruction {i.e. in the Bible} or we will not … John 14:23-24 - 23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me , he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. 24 He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. KJV

John 8:32 - And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. {KJV}

Finally … 1 Thessalonians 5:21-24 - 21 prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Faithful is he that calls you, who also will do it. {KJV}

glclair@aol.com - Tuesday, November 22, 2011 --- SEE – considermagazine.com

4. Avoid going from house to house for the purpose of bearing bad news and interfering with other people’s business.

5. Always turn a deaf ear to any slanderous report and lay no charge against any person until well founded.

6. If a member is in fault, tell him of it in private, before it is mentioned to several other people.

7. Be careful of avoiding someone because of some action that has the appearance of opposition or resentment.

8. If a member has offended, consider how godlike it is to forgive, and how unlike a Christian it is to seek revenge.

9. Remember that it is a giant deception of the devil to promote animosities among members of the church; do not let him succeed.

10. Consider how much more good we can do in the world and in the church in particular, when we are all united in love.

Every True Christian wants the congregation that he is a member of to be a sound and strong church, exerting good influence in the community, dwelling together in peace, etc. The only way that this can be achieved is for the membership of the congregation to continue to exert effort to be the kind of growing Christian that Peter admonishes in 2 Peter 3:18, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him (be) the glory both now and forever. Amen" {ASV}. Some things that will aid in building a strong, sound church are:

Acts 20:32, "And now I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build (you) up, and to give (you) the inheritance among all them that are sanctified"

1 Peter 5:2-3, "Tend the flock of God which is among you, exercising the oversight, not of constraint, but willingly, according to (the will of) God; nor yet for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as lording it over the charge allotted to you, but making yourselves ensamples to the flock"

Matthew 5:16, "Even so let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven" {ASV}. -- Philippians 2:15, "that ye may become blameless and harmless, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom ye are seen as lights in the world" {ASV}.

Fellowship in the church should be sweet and precious, it should be visible to the whole community, especially to those that visit the church from throughout the community.

Galatians 6:9-10, "And let us not be weary in well-doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. So then, as we have opportunity, let us work that which is good toward all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of the faith"

Acts 5:42, "And every day, in the temple and at home, they ceased not to teach and to preach Jesus (as) the Christ”. Acts 8:4, "They therefore that were scattered abroad, went about preaching the word" {ASV}.

People serving the Lord because they love Him and want to glorify Him -- not because they feel they have to do something, sometime.

8. A DISPOSITION OF HAPPINESS, FRIENDLINESS, COOPERATION, HOSPATILITY, AND CORDIALITY:

No stranger should ever come into the Lord's church without being greeted and welcomed by a happy, friendly membership!

Are we building a strong, happy, sound, friendly and God approved congregation? --- glclair@aol.com - November 1, 2011

I WILL STUDY MY BIBLE - 2 Timothy 2:15, “Give diligence to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, handling aright the word of truth.” ASV

I WILL BE PATIENT TOWARD OTHERS - Ecclesiastes 7:8, “Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof; (and) the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.” ASV

I WILL SHOW BY MY ACTIONS THAT I LOVE MY NEIGHBOR - Matthew 19:19, “Honor thy father and mother; and, Thou shall love thy neighbor as thyself.”

I WILL PRAY FOR THE SICK - James 5:15, “and the prayer of faith shall save him that is sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, it shall be forgiven him.” ASV

I WILL THANK GO MORE OFTEN - Psalms 108:3, “I will give thanks unto thee, O Jehovah, among the peoples; and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations.”

I WILL DO MY BEST TO BE A GOOD SPOUSE - Ephesians 5:25, “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it;” ASV

I WILL DO MY BEST TO BE A GOOD GRANDPARENT, “2 Timothy 1:5, “having been reminded of the unfeigned faith that is in thee; which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and, I am persuaded, in thee also.” ASV

I WILL DO MY BEST TO BE A GOOD PARENT - 2 Timothy 1:5, “having been reminded of the unfeigned faith that is in thee; which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and, I am persuaded, in thee also.” ASV

I WILL DO MY BEST TO BE AT PEACE WITH EVERYONE - Romans 12:18, “If it be possible, as much as in you lieth, be at peace with all men.”

I WILL LOVE MY BRETHREN - 1 John 4:7, “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is begotten of God, and knoweth God.” ASV

I WILL LOVE GOD - Mark 12:30, “and thou shall love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength.” ASV

I WILL BE ATTENTIVE TO THE NEEDS OF MY BRETHREN - Galatians 6:10, “So then, as we have opportunity, let us work that which is good toward all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of the faith.” ASV

Because of the continued rise of liberal and more-liberal churches today it behooves us all to determine why this is happening and seek a remedy if one is available; cf. Jeremiah 10:23 - O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps. [KJV}

Some years ago while working with a sound congregation in southern California I authored a short article that dealt with this problem and first appeared in print of Truth Magazine and photo copied and used in the local church bulletin. A great deal of time has passed since those days and today we see even more departing from the “narrow way” and taking rather the “broad way” which unless abandoned will cost those who pursue it their hope of Heaven; after awhile; cf. Matthew 7:13-20 - 13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way , that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way , which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. 15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18 a good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. {KJV}

Some advocate a large congregation at any cost; perhaps this is one of the causes of many who have adhered to “sound doctrine” in past days and who are still on the fringe of soundness but are drifting away – cf. 1 Timothy 1:5-10 - 5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: 6 From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling; 7 Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm. 8 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; 9 Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, 10 For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for men-stealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine: {KJV}

These who insist upon a mega-church are not concerned about the quality of the membership; they are only concerned with the community’s acceptance of them because they are a big church just like the denominations around them. In some of these big churches you cannot tell whether you are in a church of Christ or not; the only sign that indicates that it is a church of Christ is the sign over the door or the sign in front of the building. Whenever the leadership of a congregation stoops to the three worldly methods to build up a membership they have loose their relationship with the Godhead;

Water down the pure gospel so that no person may be offended.
Allow worldliness and ungodliness to go un-condemned among thee membership.
Become involved with programs and relationships for the express purpose of preselecting members from other congregations close to them.

just like the church at Laodicea; cf. Revelation 3:14-19 -14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; 15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. 16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth. 17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: 18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eye-salve, that thou mayest see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. {KJV}

Indeed; such tactics and others are often adopted by the advocates of large churches at any cost. The desire to increase numerically is good but the desire to increase numerically at any cost is anti-scriptural and will lead to the forming of unsound congregations where the head of the church {i.e. Christ} is ignored and unsound men and women make rules and regulations to be followed. – cf. - Hebrews 5:8-9 - 8 though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; 9 and being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; {KJV}

Ephesians 1:22-23 - 22 and hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him that fills all in all. {KJV}

Do not be drawn into apostasy by liberal philosophers or by false brethren who will pretend to believe but are nothing but wolves …

JESUS SAYS - cf. Matthew 7:15-18 - 15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18 a good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit; neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.

PAUL WRITES CLEARLY - Acts 20:29-31 - 29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. 31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. {KJV} ...

In the busy and complicated lives of most Christians in the world today {i.e. 2011} the need to provide for oneself and perhaps family {i.e. wife and children} there is a compelling impulse to pursue materialistic goals before anything else. I do not deny the fact that most of the things of life that make a person independent, stable economically, and appealing to other people is their acquired possessions. The great need that all people are apparently born with is the desire to succeed in life in whatever field of Endeavour they choose to pursue. Indeed; the drive to be successful in life in these areas is often foremost in the mind of both individuals and in the parents of youngsters as they began to grow and show ability to learn and accomplish good grades in school, excel in sports, music {i.e. band, etc.}, show signs of growth and indicate good ability to learn.

Whenever our children reach the age where they become independent and self-directed {i.e. the ability to make choices in life} we will make every attempt to assist them in their chosen field of pursuit. Often this involves the use of the parent’s savings, etc. to see that the children succeed in education and their desire to make a good living and even to assisting them as they seek a boyfriend or girlfriend. These are days of decision making for both parents and children and this will go on until their children break from the parents influence and pursue their own life as the parents have so patiently and surely prepared them to do.

Parents; are you following God’s instructions about teaching them about God and the importance of pursuing God’s instructions and wisdom – cf. Jer. 10:23 - O Lord, I know it is not within the power of man to map his life and plan his course- {TLB}

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

Ecclesiastes 11:9 - Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth ; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth , and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment. {KJV}

Ecclesiastes 12:1 - Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth , while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shall say, I have no pleasure in them;

1. Did you encourage them to pursue the lifestyle that God has revealed for mankind within the pages of His Holy Book; the “Bible”?

2. Did you tell them about the love of God for their eternal joy and happiness?

3. Did you remind them that there is evil in the world and much evil exist in some of the people they will encounter in school, sports, and other academic pursuits?

4. Did you show them that God disapproves of sex outside of marriage; that some people carry venereal diseases that may be passed on to them if they have sexual relationships outside marriage?

5. Did you tell teach them that God will forgive all their sins if they will obey Him?

6. Did you teach them that God lives them and wants only the very best in life for them?

7. Did you teach them that heaven is a beautiful place for them if they will become a Christian and live a life of faithfulness until they die - Hebrews 3:14 - 14 For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ. {NLT}

Hebrews 13:4-5 - 4 Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery. 5 Stay away from the love of money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, "I will never fail you. I will never forsake you." {NLT}

1 John 1:9 - But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong. {NLT}

One of the great problems to understanding among differing religious philosophies is the problem over interpretation. Some religious teachers approach the Bible’s teaching without careful thought of the setting under consideration. By this I mean, there are circumstances, settings, those addressed, and other factors that are to be considered as one seeks understanding of a passage of the Bible. For instance, recently I head a T.V. evangelist interpret John 14:12-14 and apply the statement of Jesus to everyone that believes for all time.

This passage is a passage that is limited by the text to the apostles that he had personally selected and who had been with him from early in his personal ministry. As one examines the greater context it is clear that this passage, [John 14:12-14, “12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater (works) than these shall he do; because I go unto the Father. 13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If ye shall ask anything in my name, that will I d” (ASV)], is limited to the work of the apostles after the Holy Spirit (i.e. the ‘Comforter’’) has come to them – having been sent by Jesus. Please notice that in this setting the apostles of Christ are being told of Christ leaving them and returning back to the Father and that Christ will himself petition the Father and the “Comforter” will come to guide them (i.e. the apostles”) into all truth.

“5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; how know we the way? 6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no one cometh unto the Father, but by me. 7 If ye had known me, ye would have known my Father also: from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. 8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. 9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and dost thou not know me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; how sayest thou, Show us the Father? 10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I say unto you I speak not from myself: but the Father abiding in me doeth his works. 11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake.12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater (works) than these shall he do; because I go unto the Father. 13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

14 If ye shall ask anything in my name, that will I do. 15 If ye love me, ye will keep my commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may be with you for ever,

17(even) the Spirit of truth: whom the world cannot receive; for it beholdeth him not, neither

19 Yet a little while, and the world beholdeth me no more; but ye behold me: because I live, ye shall live also.

20 In that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.

21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself unto him.

22 Judas (not Iscariot) saith unto him, Lord, what is come to pass that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?

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

24 He that loveth me not keepeth not my words: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's who sent me.

26 But the Comforter, (even) the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said unto you.

27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful.

28 Ye heard how I said to you, I go away, and I come unto you. If ye loved me, ye would have rejoiced, because I go unto the Father: for the Father is greater than I.

29 And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe”

This context is not a general statement that includes everyone who believes for all time, it is limited to the apostles of Christ and to their carrying out of the great commission (i.e. Matthew 28:18-20).

Many of the religious people that teach the present day miraculous working of the Holy Spirit misapply a great portion of the New Testament. This is simply one among many false views that the Pentecostal people hold regarding the matter of correctly applying Bible teaching. When one handles the New Testament as reckless as this instance, it is no wonder that there can be no serious dialogue about truth and the proper application of Bible truth with many of these religious zealots.

The subject for today is the matter of “good news” or the results of the physical death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ. The greatest event in the history of mankind took place approximately 2,000 years ago {etc.: 33 CE}; that great event included several earth shaking events – cf. Matthew 20:17-19 - 17 And Jesus going up to Jerusalem took the twelve disciples apart in the way, and said unto them, 18 Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death, 19 And shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify him: and the third day he shall rise again. {KJV}

1. Jesus Christ {i.e. God’s only Son – John 3:16} was murdered by the Jewish people and the Roman government …

Matthew 20:17-19 17 And Jesus going up to Jerusalem took the twelve disciples apart in the way, and said unto them, 18 Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death, 19 And shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify him: and the third day he shall rise again. {KJV}

Mark 15:1-3 - 1 And straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council, and bound Jesus, and carried him away, and delivered him to Pilate. 2 And Pilate asked him, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he answering said unto him, Thou sayest it. 3 And the chief priests accused him of many things: but he answered nothing.

John 19:6-8 - 6 When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him . Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him : for I find no fault in him. 7 The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God. 8 When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid; {KJV}

A. There they crucified HIM - John 19:15-18 - 15 But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him . Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priest answered, We have no king but Caesar. 16 Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away. 17 And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha: 18 Where they crucified him, and two other with him, on either side one, and Jesus in the midst. {KJV}

Luke 24:1-8 – 1 Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. 2 And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. 3 And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: 5 And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spoke unto you when he was yet in Galilee, 7 Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. 8 And they remembered his words, {KJV}

John 14:1-3 - 1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again , and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. {KJV}

3. Everything that Jesus did while He sojourned on the earth was good. Jesus made it possible for all who will to be saved from their sin. Jesus also provided the pattern for the church that was to wear His name – cf. Matthew 16:18; Romans 16:16.

John 14:25-26 - 25 These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. 26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name , he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. {KJV}

5. Today we have the Bible to guide us; the Holy Spirit revealed the Bible Message to mankind so that they might have an infallible guide to know the truth about the religion of Jesus Christ …

Note … Jeremiah 10:23 - O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps. {KJV}

John 8:32-36 - 32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. 33 They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free? 34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. 35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. 36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. {KJV}

John 12:48-49 - 48 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. 49 For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. {KJV}

The basic characteristics of all people include their ability to handle anger that is kindled in their life due to some action or circumstance that they cannot control. Many people are careful to control their anger in all situations but there are some who cannot control their anger and cause great upheavals in many families and in many communities. These are not figments of my imitation; I have seen the conduct of some people who absolutely cannot control their anger.

Whenever a person is converted from the sinful world into the church of our Lord; that person is obligated to grow in grace and in truth with personal actions designed to control their anger – Ephesians 4:31-32 - 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. {KJV}

Colossians 3:8 - but now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. {KJV}

The Bible addresses this problem as it does all human propensities. The inclinations that reside within our sub consciousness are to be brought under control as we become a Christian and proceed to develop into mature Christians - 2 Peter 3:18 - But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

Ephesians 4:26-27 - 26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 Neither give place to the devil. {KJV}

The new convert ought to be told and encouraged to bring under control these characteristics that come upon him/her occasionally without warning and put forth a herculean effort to control them. These inclinations to allow anger to surface and cause one to do something evil will eventually destroy the will of the Christian to resist – Hebrews 6:1 - Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity , not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, {NIV}

Whenever this happens the Christian has returned to the rudiments of the world {i.e. has become a back-slider} and needs to repent and come back to the Lord. Indeed; there is no place else to get forgiveness for sin of any kind without returning to the Lord for forgiveness - Hebrews 10:38-11:1 - 38 now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draws back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. 39 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. {KJV}

Anger must be put away by the Christian and brought under control - Philippians 3:20-21 - 20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. {NIV}

The old song that forms the title of this article is a beautiful song with a spiritual message. As we look into the written Word of God we find in – John 6:66-68 the following statement:

66 Upon this many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

68 Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.”

At this time in Jesus life, he was preparing himself for the ordeal of a betrayal by Judas, a mock trial rigged by the Jewish religious leadership, and a trial before Pontus Pilate where He will be condemned and finally crucified. Here in John 6 we are witness to a time when it seems that all of Christ’s disciples were to leave Him, yet He uttered these words of concern in the presence of Peter. In response to Christ’s question; “Will you leave me too?” Peter gave the answer that has stood ever since as a singular fact, indeed, there is no other place to go except to Jesus Christ.

Today, there are many religions that do not believe in Jesus Christ as the Messiah of the Jews and the Savior of mankind from sin (e.g. Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Mormonism, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mooney’s, etc.), there are many religions that do not believe that Jesus is Divine, but Jesus is everything that the Bible teaches about HIM.

Today, as in the 1st century CE, Jesus Christ is still the one to whom all sinners must go to seek salvation from sin, cf. Hebrews 5:8-9, “8 though he was a Son, yet learned obedience by the things which he suffered; 9 and having been made perfect, he became unto all them that obey him the author of eternal salvation;” {ASV}

The same thing that men and women of accountable age did to receive salvation from sin in the 1st Century is what men and women of accountable age must do today to receive salvation from sin, they must:

FROM THE PREACHER’S DESK

John 8:32, “and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

II 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

One of the problems with most of us is a lack of patience whenever we undertake a study of a difficult passage of Scripture. First, we ought to know that God would never give us a book that we cannot understand and then make our hope of heaven depend upon understanding it. There are many people connected to some man-made religious institution that will tell us certain parts of the Bible cannot be understood and that because of this problem we must be charitable toward those that do not agree with us.

Perhaps we need to look at the Bible as a book edited by an absolutely perfect source, consequently that book cannot contain error of any kind. Whenever we undertake an examination of a preconceived ideal, if our opinions conflict with the Bible we must reexamine our conclusions --- We must never charge the Bible with error. Whenever we cannot understand the Bible or a passage in it we must seek help from others in understanding, no passage is impossible of understanding. Since no passage of Holy Scripture is impossible of understanding we must patiently pursue a solution of the problem making sure that our conclusions do not contradict other passages of Scripture in another place. glclair@aol.com – Revised: August 11,

{3} I now want to move my membership to this church from my former denomination

{4} I was immersed in my former denomination; I do not need to be baptized again

{5} I was baptized as a baby {i.e. sprinkled} and I do not need to be baptized again

{6) All my relatives belong to another denomination I cannot disappoint them

{10} God loves everyone and will surely not condemn anyone to Hell {i.e. eternal punishment}. Always anticipate rejection of the Biblical truth that are disputed by various denominational religions.

[1] LAY THE FOUNDATION OF BIBLICAL AUTHORITY Establish with the person the authority of the BIBLE, Make sure that before you leave this first point of discussion you have established with the student the absolute reliability and accuracy of the Bible as a guide in all spiritual matters. Make sure that the student is aware of the many different translations of the Bible and make sure that the student knows the reasons why some translations of the Bible are inaccurate.

[2] WE LIVE UNDER THE CHRISTIAN DISPENSATION TODAY: In this part of the study show that the Bible is divided into two parts the Old and the New Testament. Next - Show the three dispensations that are found in the Bible:

[2]-The Law of Moses – From Mount Sinai to Acts 23- The Christian dispensations from Acts 2 until the second return ofChrist

[3] THE BIBLE LEADS US TO THE N. T. FOR GOD'S PLAN FOR MANKIND TODAY: In this part of your study show that the Patriarchal and the Law of Moses no longer are binding upon mankind. Show that the law of Christ or the Christian dispensation is now the method through which man is reconciled to God. Show that the establishment of the church (i.e. the Kingdom of God) was established in Jerusalem according to Acts 2:1-47. Finally in this session show that the Lord added the saved to the church for the first time in Acts 2:47.

[4] HOW CHRIST RELATES TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CHURCH: Show that Christ died for the church - Acts 20:28 - Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. KJV Show that Christ loves the church – Eph. 5:25 - Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; KJV Show that Christ is an advocate for the Christian - 1 John 2:1 - My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: KJV Show that Christ will save the church – Eph. 5:23 - For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body. KJV

[5] WHAT GOD HAS PROVIDED FOR MAN’S SALVATION FROM SIN? 1-God provides an acceptable sacrifice (i.e. Christ) – Heb. 7:27 - Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people: for this he did once, when he offered up himself. KJV 2-God provides grace (i.e. unmerited favor) – Titus 2:11-12 - 11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 3-God provides acceptance of the repented sinner - Acts 11:18 - When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life. KJV

[6] WHAT MAN CONTRIBUTES TO HIS SALVATION 1-One hears the gospel - Rom 10:17, “So belief (cometh) of hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ." ASV 2-One then believes the gospel - Rom 10:17 - “So belief (cometh) of hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ." 3-One then repents of past sin - Acts 2:38 – 4-One Confesses Christ - Rom. 10:9-10 – 9 because if thou shall confess with thy mouth Jesus (as) Lord, and shall believe in thy heart that God raised him from the dead, thou shall be saved: for with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. ASV 5-One is then Baptized - Acts 2:38

[7] WHEN MAN COMPLIES WITH THE DIVINE CONDITIONS FOR SALVATION FROM SIN, HE IS ADDED TO THE CHURCH BY JESUS CHRIST: Acts 2:47 - Praising God, and having favored with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. KJV

[8] AFTER BECOMING A CHRISTIAN, ONE MUST REMAIN FAITHFUL UNTIL THEY DIE: Rev. 2:10 - Fear none of those things which thou shall suffer: behold, the devil shall 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 a crown of life. 1 Cor. 4:2 - Moreover it is required in stewards that a man be found faithful. 2 Tim. 2:11-13 - 11 It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: 12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: 13 If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself. glclair@aol.com – August-7-2011

The Scriptures teach that each Christian is to evangelize as is demonstrated by the example of the early disciples (Acts 8:4). The Scriptures also teach that the church as a collective body is to evangelize the world (1 Thess. 1:8; Eph. 4:12). As a result of our becoming Christians and becoming members of a local assembly, we are obliged to evangelize. The responsibility to do the work of evangelization is, therefore, a responsibility not only of the local congregation as a collective body but is also a responsibility of each Christian individually. Since that is factual we present some facts for each reader to consider:

1. The chart reproduced below shows 20 of the largest urban areas in America (cf. Plain Dealer, p. 20A, 7/30/86 – See updated chart at end of article).

2. In many of those areas the church is non-existent or very small in numbers (cf. Directory of Churches of Christ, Guardian of Truth Bookstore).

3. Since there are a large number of urban areas that have no sound congregation, why not become involved in one or more of these areas either individually or collectively (encourage the elders of the congregation you attend to look into the possibility)? The work in many of these areas is very difficult yet some fruit is surely possible if the effort is expended.

4. There must be some who would be willing to sacrifice for the cause of Christ if these areas are evangelized as suggested.

5. Those that are willing to go there and put forth the effort ought to be encouraged by all of us.

6. The amount of money that has been available for difficult and slow works has diminished considerably over the past fifty years. The congregations that a few years ago were supporting other preachers in difficult areas are now seeking support for the local work (such congregations are not in the majority); these are generally churches that have seen large numbers of their members forced to relocate because of economic problems. Since this is a factor in evangelism those who decide to work in difficult areas should consider the problem that this has created.

7. There are still many sound churches that are able and willing to support good work anywhere. To those churches a great deal of credit should be paid by us all, to those who are willing to do work in such difficult places those churches would be worthwhile contacts (most of those in this category will assist a worthy man if possible).

8. There is another source of support for those who are willing to go and work in difficult areas. The members of one's family may see the prospects for growth and assist the individual in his efforts at evangelism.

9. Another area of possible support is to approach individual Christians who are financially able to assist; if you do take this approach you need to give several references of faithful members of the Body of Christ so that the individual may feel free to examine your credentials and credibility.

10. Finally, we need to be aware of these responsibilities to do all that we can in the area of evangelizing the world (Matt. 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16). As one can observe from the chart of the one hundred largest urban areas compared to the directory of churches, much work needs to be done in American cities.

2011 UPDATED CHART - With the July 1, 2006 estimates, Phoenix replaced Philadelphia as the fifth largest city in the U.S.

Today there are many people making plans for future events in their lives. I know of some who are planning vacations to far away places in the next few years, I also know of some older friends who are involved in plans to retire from their occupation and live in two different places; one in the summer and one in the winter. Indeed; many are busy with their material possessions, worldly pursuits and good times.

These friends and other are planning on future events without serious consideration or plans for the most important journey of their entire life. Yes; there is a journey that everyone must make in their life; this journey consists of making a choice between two roads; one is described as a narrow way and the other is described as a broad way – cf. Matthew 7:13-14 - 13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. {KJV}

Yes; many people do not pause in their pursuit of the things of this world to consider seriously their journey from life here on earth to death and that which comes after physical death “someday” – cf. 1 Corinthians 15:50-58 – 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed — 52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 for this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: "Death is swallowed up in victory." 55 "O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?" 56 The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. 57 but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. {NKJV}

Dear friend; consider today the importance of your journey in life that will determine your eternal destiny. Only you can make that journey and you must make it while you still have time to do so. - glclair@aol.com – August-1-2011

Throughout the years one fact that has disturbed me greatly has been the occasions when a person seeks to place membership in the congregation where I preach who want to become a member {i.e. to be accepted and placed in the church directory} even though they were never part of a church of Christ congregation; anywhere. Some have been a part of a denomination other than a church of Christ but they do not consider that it is necessary to restudy the Bible to clarify their salvation in whatever denomination they were part of.

I remember a case in point where a member of the Pentecostal Church came to visit us and continued to come regularly over a lengthy period; finally we asked that person if they would like to restudy the Bible about conversion and Scriptural baptism. We began a study with this person and several others at that point. From the beginning of the study the Pentecostal person consistently suggested that the church where they were baptized; had baptized them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. The person also stated that immersion was the manner of their baptism. When I told them that they must renounce their former teaching and relationship as false doctrine; I was amazed to find that they were under the impression that even though they were taught error they were convinced that their immersion in baptism equaled salvation from sin.

Many have been the times I have sought to undo the work of false teachers that have brought about false feelings of security to the hearts of people who have placed their hope of heaven in their false formulas of salvation. I have put together the following list that shows the Biblical formula for salvation from sin; I cannot support any other philosophy taught by denominational teachers.

God’s plan for man’s salvation from sin is not complicated; the plan is simple for those that seek and rightly divide the Holy Scriptures – {cf. 2 Timothy 3:15 - and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. NKJV - 2 Timothy 2:15 - Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. NKJV

Romans 10:14-15 - How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!"

Romans 10:17 - So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. NKJV

Mark 16:16 - He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. NKJV

Acts 2:38 - 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.

4. One must confess with the mouth “”Jesus Christ as God’s Son.” …

Romans 10:9-10 - 9 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. NKJV

Acts 2:38 - 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.

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. NKJV

After the sincere person has complied with the five points in this study; the Lord Jesus Christ will add them to the right church …

Acts 2:47 - praising God and having favor with all the people; and the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. NKJV

Mr. Clair; where do you get the idea that salvation requires more than grace through faith? Jamey C.

The basic philosophy regarding salvation from sin is clearly established whenever man takes the time to examine the New Testament’s teaching.

I know that much of the denominational world follows the teachings of Luther, Calvin, etc. rather than the Scriptures; yet their concept of “faith only” salvation cannot be sustained by the teaching of the New Testament. The teaching of the Bible regarding “salvation from sin” follows …

God’s plan for man’s salvation from sin is not complicated; the plan is simple for those that seek and rightly divide the Holy Scriptures – {cf. 2 Timothy 3:15 - and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. NKJV - 2 Timothy 2:15 - Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. NKJV

Romans 10:14-15 - How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!"

Romans 10:17 - So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. NKJV

Mark 16:16 - He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. NKJV

Acts 2:38 - 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. NKJV

Luke 13:3 - I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. NKJV

Romans 10:9-10 - 9 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. NKJV

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. NKJV

THE LORD; THEN ADDS THE SAVED TO HIS CHURCH AS THEY ARE SAVED FROM SIN … Acts 2:47 - praising God and having favor with all the people; and the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. NKJV

Email communication - Preacher Clair; please give me your view of Deuteronomy 21:17-24.

10 Female Captives "When you go out to war against your enemies, and the LORD your God delivers them into your hand, and you take them captive, 11 and you see among the captives a beautiful woman, and desire her and would take her for your wife, 12 then you shall bring her home to your house, and she shall shave her head and

trim her nails. 13 She shall put off the clothes of her captivity, remain in your house, and mourn her father and her mother a full month; after that you may go in to her and be her husband, and she shall be your wife. 14 And it shall be, if you have no delight in her, then you shall set her free, but you certainly shall not sell her for money; you shall not treat her brutally, because you have humbled her. {NKJV}

This passage of Holy Scripture taken in its proper relation to those of us in this time of history has no direct application to us under any circumstance.

This instruction was given to ancient Israel because the people in the Land of Canaan at that time in history were idolaters {i.e. practicing abominations in the sight of Almighty God}; therefore God instructed Israel {i.e. – God’s Chosen People - the people under the Law of Moses at that time} to destroy all those in the land wherever they went in to possess it for their inheritance under the Law of Moses as promised. Which possession was dependant upon the Israelites continued faithfulness to God’s

Under the present arrangement that God has with all mankind {i.e. both Jews and Gentiles; the Law of Moses is no longer God’s Law; it has been abolished in fullfilmrnt coming of the Messiah {i.e. Jesus Christ}; The Law of Moses is no longer God’s Law binding on anyone; the Law of Christ is the only law under which mankind lives {i.e. both Jews and Gentiles}.

Colossians 2:12-14 - 12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. 13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; 14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross ; {KJV}

Ephesians 2:13-17 - 13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; 15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; 16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross , having slain the enmity thereby: 17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. {KJV}

The following references show that the Law of Christ; from the establishment of

Christ’s church on the day of Pentecost {i.e. Acts 2:1-47} until the resurrection and the

judgment of God; is God’s last arrangement with mankind; both Jews and Gentiles.

Therefore from this it is understood that the laws and instructions under the old

systems {i.e. the Patriarchal Dispensation and the Jewish Dispensation no longer are

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

Romans 1:16 - The Just Live by Faith For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for

it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also

2 Timothy 2:8-10 - 8 Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from

the dead according to my gospel, 9 for which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the

point of chains; but the word of God is not chained. 10 Therefore I endure all things for

the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus

with eternal glory. {NKJV} --- glclair@aol.com - Friday, July 08, 2011

Justice in the American court system is often lacking today. This is a terrible evil for any people as God’s instruction to the civil authorities is to exercise justice and consider fair enforcement of civil law.

In the Book of Romans we find some of the Divine instruction to God’s people and to the civil authorities; please note the following Biblical passage:

Romans 13:1-7 - 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers, For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. {KJV}

Whenever a Christian violates the civil law that is fairly enforced by the authorities {i.e. laws that do not violate the rights of Christians to worship God correctly}; the Christian sins against God. In the same text God’s Word implies that governments that do not enforce laws justly will be responsible to God who is supreme in the final judgment of all – both the Christian citizen and the enforcers of the civil law must be approved by Almighty God – “SOMEDAY. glclair@aol.com - Wednesday, July 06, 2011

That “Hell” is a very real place can be adequately proven to the honest person by referring to the Bible in a number of places; some of which I will point out in this short outline study. But; regardless of what God presents in His Book; many will not accept the truthful facts about “hell” and many other true facts found therein.

1-Hell is a place where the inhabitants’ breath will be a living flame –cf. Isa. 33:11 - Ye shall conceive chaff, ye shall bring forth stubble: your breath is a fire that shall devour you. (ASV)

2-Hell is a place of everlasting burning – cf. Isa. 33:14 - The sinners in Zion are afraid; trembling hath seized the godless ones: Who among us can dwell with the devouring fire? Who among us can dwell with everlasting burnings? (ASV)

3-Hell is a place where one may never repent – cf. Matt. 12:32 - And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.

4-Hell is a furnace of fire – cf. Matt. 13:42 - And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. (KJV)

5-Hell is a place prepared for the Devil and his angels – cf. Matt. 25:41 - Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: (KJV)

6-Hell is a place of eternal punishment – cf. Matt. 25:46 - 46 and these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. (KJV)

7-Hell is a lake of fire – cf. Rev 20:15 - And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. (KJV)

8-Hell is a place from which the smoke of the inhabitants’ torment ascends up forever – cf. Rev 14:11 - And the smoke of their torment ascends up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receives the mark of his name. (KJV)

Surely no person in their right mind will have any desire to spend eternity in such a place as that described in our study today; “amen. glclair@aol.com

Divine love is often misunderstood by many people today. Divine love has been bestowed upon all people in that God has made it possible for anyone and everyone to be saved from sin and go eventually to heaven through continued faithfulness – cf. Rev. 2:10. A great problem to many people arises over the Bible teaching about eternal hell fire for the wicked {i.e. the judgment of Christ upon the righteous and the evil}.Many people of our time have been fed a diet of the love of God that makes room for everyone including the evil people; apparently there is in the mind of many a God so full of love that there is not room for retribution of the evil that people will commit in violation of God’s will. Even though God is a God of love he will not accept disobedient people who refuse to follow His Instructions. Note these following Bible verses regarding this point:

In order to benefit from the love of God man must perform as God directs – cf. “If ye love me keep my commandments – John 14:15.

Commandment keeping demonstrates to God and to man that we truly love God; but without obedience man demonstrates a lack of love for God.

5-Love must be long-suffering [i.e. not compromising}, Eph. 4:2 – 1 Cor. 13:4

In recent years the concept of my worth to others has been on my mind. I am not overly interested in parading my own accomplishments in life before others yet I seek some gauge of my benefit to other people in this life. I take this seriously because of certain passages of Holy Scripture I have recently considered; please note the following …

1-Matt. 10:30-31 - 30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows (KJV)

[But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.] Nothing is more astonishing than the care and concern of God for his followers. The least circumstances of their life are regulated, not merely by that general providence which extends to all things, but by a particular providence, which fits and directs all things to the design of their salvation, causing them all to co-operate for their present and eternal good. Rom. 5:1-5.

Matthew 10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.

[Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value] None can estimate the value of a soul, for which Christ has given his blood and life! Have confidence in his goodness.

2-Phil. 3:7-9 - 7 But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. 8 More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, 9 and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, (NASU)

[But what things were gain] The credit and respect which I had, as being zealously attached to the law, and to the traditions of the elders, I counted loss for Christ-I saw that this could stand me in no stead; that all my acts of righteousness were nothing on which I could depend for salvation; and that Christ crucified could alone profit me; for I found that it is impossible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sin.

Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

[I count all things but loss] Not only my Jewish privileges, but all others of every kind; with everything that men count valuable or gainful, or on which they usually depend for salvation.

[The excellency of the knowledge of Christ] That superior light, information, and blessedness, which come through the Gospel of Jesus Christ; justification through his blood, sanctification by his Spirit, and eternal glory through his merits and intercession. These are the blessings held out to us by the Gospel, of which, and the law, Jesus Christ is the sum and substance.

[I have suffered the loss of all things] Some translate di' hon ta panta ezeemiootheen, for whom I have thrown away all things-I have made a voluntary choice of Christ, his cross, his poverty, and his reproach; and for these I have freely sacrificed all I had from the world, and all I could expect from it.

[And do count them but dung] The word skubala means the vilest dross or refuse of anything; the worst excrement. The word shows how utterly insignificant and unavailing, in point of salvation, the apostle esteemed everything but the Gospel of Jesus. With his best things he freely parted, judging them all loss while put in the place of Christ crucified; and Christ crucified he esteemed infinite gain, when compared with all the rest. Of the utter unavailableness of anything but Christ to save the soul the Apostle Paul stands as an incontrovertible proof. Could the law have done anything, the apostle must have known it. He tried, and found it vanity; he tried the Gospel system, and found it the power of God to his salvation. By losing all that the world calls excellent, he gained Christ, and endless salvation through him. Of the glorious influence of the Gospel he is an unimpeachable witness. See the concluding observations at Acts 9, on the character of Paul.

And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

[And be found in him] Be found a believer in Christ, not having mine own righteousness-not trusting in anything I have done or could do, in order to my salvation; relying on no scheme of justification, set up either formerly by myself or by others,

[But that which is through the faith of Christ] That justification which is received by faith through the atonement made by Christ.

[The righteousness which is of God] God's method of justifying sinners through faith in his Son. (Adam Clarke's Commentary.)

3-Matt. 13:44-46 - 44 "The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and hid again; and from joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. 45 A Costly Pearl "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls, 46 and upon finding one pearl of great value , he went and sold all that he had and bought it. (NASU)

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.

[The Kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field] Theesauroo kekrummenoo, to a hidden treasure. We are not to imagine that the treasure here mentioned, and to which the Gospel salvation is likened, means a pot or chest of money hidden in the field, but rather a gold or silver mine, which he who found out could not get at, or work, without turning up the field, and for this purpose he bought it. Mr. Wakefield's observation is very just: "There is no sense in the purchase of a field for a pot of money, which he might have carried away with him very readily, and as honestly, too, as by overreaching the owner by an unjust purchase."

He hideth-i.e. he kept secret, told the discovery to no person, till he had bought the field. From this view of the subject, the translation of this verse, given above, will appear proper-a hidden treasure, when applied to a rich mine, is more proper than a treasure hid, which applies better to a pot of money deposited there, which I suppose was our translators opinion;-and kept secret, or concealed, will apply better to the subject of his discovery till he made the purchase, than hideth, for which there could be no occasion, when the pot was already hidden, and the place known only to himself.

The kingdom of heaven-the salvation provided by the Gospel-is like a treasure-something of inestimable worth-hidden in a field; it is a rich mine, the veins of which run in all directions in the Sacred Scriptures; therefore, the field must be dug up, the records of salvation diligently and carefully turned over, and searched. Which, when a man hath found-when a sinner is convinced that the promise of life eternal is to him, he kept secret-pondered the matter deeply in his heart; he examines the preciousness of the treasure, and counts the cost of purchase; for joy thereof-finding that this salvation is just what his needy soul requires, and what will make him presently and eternally happy, went and sold all that he had-renounces his sins, abandons his evil companions, and relinquishes all hope of salvation through his own righteousness; and purchased that field-not merely bought the book for the sake of the salvation it described, but, by the blood of the covenant, buys gold tried in the fire, white raiment, etc.; in a word, pardon and purity, which he receives from God for the sake of Jesus. We should consider the salvation of God,

2. Search for it in the Scriptures, till we fully understand its worth and excellence.

6. Be always convinced that it must be bought, and that no price is accepted for it but the blood of the covenant; the sufferings and death of our only Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (Adam Clarke's Commentary.)

These comments by Mr. Clark reach great understanding of the depts. of a person’s hope in that salvation that has come to mankind as a result of Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection from the grave, and His return to His Father. Once we accept that as a legitimate answer to all our human problems here in the earth; we are capable of enjoying life as never before; for our hope is bound up in this relationship that we now have with the Godhead that has led us to believe and obey the Lord’s Instruction {i.e. via. the Holy Scriptures}; indeed, what joy and what peace is ours to enjoy throughout the remaining days of our life her in this world.

What a wonderful disposition is illustrated by the great apostle Paul at the very ending of his life here on earth as he looks earnestly to that eternal home prepared for the faithful; Indeed; he, me, and you; because we are Christians who live and look for His coming with expectation for our own eternal home --- 2 Tim. 4:6-8

6 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. (KJV)

Possibly the greatest failure of mankind has been their failure to use their innate ability to understand and misunderstand. This is a most peculiar fact that man can on the one hand understand a fact yet at the same time misunderstand how to apply it. God gives man the ability and a pattern to follow to be acceptable. That ability to understand or reject (i.e. misunderstand) God’s instructions is known as “free-will”; or the innate ability to act independently of anyone else to Divine instruction regarding good and evil. You see God has distinguished clearly between good and evil so man may consciously choose to pursue the good or the evil. Yet, it is God’s will and man’s encumbered – {see definition at footnotes} choice to follow God’s Law.

God stated through the ancient prophet Jeremiah “O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walks to direct his steps. (KJV) – Jer. 10:23 Since this is a fact that has been exemplified time after time and year after year by mankind we ought to give heed to the instruction and react wisely through acceptance of God’s instruction and make application of them in our lives so as to please God; this is correct understanding and correct application of that which we have understood.

Whenever man understands God’s instructions and puts them to work in life that person will be pleasing to God and ultimately will gain that which they hope for as a result of continued faith and obedience to God’s instruction (i.e. law); in the coming judgment.

O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.

Way of man not in himself - (Prov. 16:1, "The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the Lord;" Prov. 20:24; James 4:13-14). I know, O Yahweh, that the march of the Babylonian conqueror against me (Jeremiah identifying himself with his people) is not at his own discretion, but is overruled by thee (Isa 10:5-7, "O Assyrian, the rod of mine anger ... against the people of my wrath will I give him a charge;" cf. Jer. 10:19).

To direct his steps - to give a prosperous issue to (Ps 37:23, "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and He delighteth in his way") his movement.

The prospects in our society today (cf. Thursday, January 06, 2011) for the application of these facts into the minds and lives of sinful man are difficult. I say difficult because of the great amount of false distractions that occupies the media as well as printed and video productions prepared for human consumption. With all that the world has to offer it is difficult to keep the mind of current mankind upon the things of God even after the initial contact and correct understanding has been accomplished. This is why so many former believers have left the faith.

With regard to this fact: note please the following passages of Holy Scripture that emphasize this fact:

3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:

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

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

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

8 for if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

9 But he that lacks these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.

10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: KJV

14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;

16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

17 Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness.

18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. (KJV)

HOW SHOULD THE FAITHFUL REACT WHEN ONE FALLS BACK – (i.e. backslides) into the beggarly elements of the world - 2 Peter 2:20-22 - 20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. 21 for it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. 22 but it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, the dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire. KJV

Gal. 6:1-2 - 1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

In the process of attempts to restore the fallen or encourage the weak; we must remember that these need to be safe in the arms of God. We must not be impatient or unkind as we put forth effort to bring the weak and erring back into a good relationship with God and the faithful.

The most successful method of reaching those lost or those that have fallen away (i.e. backslidden) is to be patient and longsuffering.

8 Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.

9 Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger rests in the bosom of fools. (KJV)

24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,

25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. (KJV)

7 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waits for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.

8 Be ye also patient; establish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draws nigh.

9 Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge stands before the door. (KJV)

One of the basic tenants of the Christian character is “love”. Whenever we consider the failures of others we should pray that we may be faithful continually. Often a person who judges another is similar to those mentioned in Matt. 7:2-5 - 2 for with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholds thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considers not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shall thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. (KJV)

1. to impede or hinder; hamper; retard: Red tape encumbers all our attempts at action.

2. to block up or fill with what is obstructive or superfluous: a mind encumbered with trivial and useless information.

3. to burden or weigh down: She was encumbered with a suitcase and several packages.

4. to burden with obligations, debt, etc.Use encumbered in a SentenceSee images of encumbered

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.