Everyone understands that there is something for the individual to do to acquire forgiveness for sin. It is a fact; everyone who becomes a Christian must comply with the instructions of Christ (HEBREWS 5:8, 9). The instructions of Christ are clearly revealed within the pages of the New Testament that leads the sinner to salvation. Please note the following:

1. Hearing the gospel, ROMANS 10:17 - "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."

2. Believing the gospel, MARK 16:16 - "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be condemned."

3. Repent of sins (i.e., sins), ACTS 2:38 "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."

3. Confess Christ with the mouth, ROMANS 10:10 - "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."

4. Baptism for the remission of sins (i.e., a burial in water), ROMANS 6:1-7 - Please read this text and comment in detail.

Whenever a sinner follows these Divine instructions his/her old sins are all forgiven by God and the person becomes a new Christian,

In 1st lesson of this study we examined the procedure defined in the New Testament that leads to salvation from sin for the sinner. In this 2nd lesson of "LIVING THE CHRISTIAN LIFE" let us begin by stating a general fact, after one becomes a Christian he/she must live the life prescribed in the Bible for the growing Christian ACTS 2:40 - "And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourself from this untoward generation."

A. God instructs the growing Christian to keep the body pure and undefiled, 1 CORINTHIANS 6:19 - "What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own."

B. Therefore, if we harm the body through the use of drug of any kind, we are disobeying God - Disobedience is sin, 1 JOHN 3:4 - "Whosoever committeth sin transgresses also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law."

1. Adultery is the only grounds for a Christian to divorce their mate, and remarry, MATTHEW 19:9 - "And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery."

The broad term, "fornication" applies to all sexual immorality, which would include;

"Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. -- What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have not of God, and ye are not your own."

Perhaps the greatest failing of most professed Christians is their failure to understand that their life is to be structured according to God's directions. In the first lesson in our study we showed how one may become a Christian and escape the pollution of this world, that man must follow the teachings of God or be lost, and that there is gross wickedness in following the rudiments of this world, cf. ROM 1 - 2:5

Although man can become a Christian and through the process become free from sin he must continue to live his life according to Divine instruction (i.e., he must follow the instructions of God found in the Bible - cf. Rev 2:10).

While living the Christian life each Christian must prioritize his life -- simply stated, he must place first things first in his life from the time of his conversion. He must therefore:

5. KNOW THAT THE "TRUTH" will ultimately be the "standard of judgment" in the last day, JOHN 12:48.

As we understand these facts about our relationship to God it is apparent, or should be, that those of us who are Christians are to live changed lives. Christians are truly, ”not of this world." the Christian's hope is the hope of all the saved of past ages, ”We seek a city whose builder and maker is God" - (HEBREWS 11:8-16).

While we all recognize that every New Year brings each of us to a number of circumstances, not the least of which is nearer to the coming of Jesus Christ. There are many things that we would like to see and do in the coming year and perhaps we will all be able to accomplish most of those things that are dear to our hearts. Yet, there is one matter that is paramount in our life choices, we must always patiently and faithfully serve God – cf. 1 Cor 10:12-13,

”12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. 13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as man can bear: but God is faithful , who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation make also the way of escape, that ye may be able to endure it.“ ASV

2 Tim 2:2, ”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

1 John 1:9, ”9 if we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.“ ASV

1 Peter 3:10-11, ”10 For, He that would love life, and see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: 11 And let him turn away from evil, and do good; Let him seek peace, and pursue it.“ ASV

Those of us that make up the church of Christ here at 4840 Cemetery Road in Hilliard, Ohio encourage you to come and visit us during our regular assemblies. There is always an open door to you that receive our monthly bulletin in the mail. Whatever we can do to assist you to a better knowledge of the Lord's Church will be a joy for us to provide. Some facts about the church are:

The churches of Christ had their origin approximately 33 AD in the city of Jerusalem in what is now the nation of Israel in the Holy Land.

The originator of the churches of Christ is Jesus Christ, see, Matthew 16:13-18,

13 Now when Jesus came into the parts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Who do men say that the Son of man is?

14 And they said, Some (say) John the Baptist; some, Elijah; and others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.

16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.

17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-Jonah: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father who is in heaven.

18 And I also say unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. ASV

The first congregation of the churches of Christ began meeting in Jerusalem about 33 AD, please read the 2nd chapter of the book of Acts, notice especially verses 27-47.

Churches of Christ do not have a creed, the only rule of faith and practice we recognize is the Written Word of God (i.e., the Bible).

Churches of Christ have no earthly headquarters, the headquarters of the churches of Christ is where the Lord Jesus Christ resides, see Colossians 1:13-18,

13 who delivered us out of the power of darkness, and translated us into the kingdom of the Son of his love;

16 for in him were all things created, in the heavens and upon the earth, things visible and things invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things have been created through him, and unto him;

18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn

6. The churches of Christ meet for communion and to lay by in store upon the first day of each week, note the following Biblical references, Acts 20:7,

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

1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I gave order to the churches of Galatia, so also do ye.

2 Upon the first day of the week let each one of you lay by him in store, as he may

Churches of Christ also pray, sing, and teach/preach whenever they come together in the assembly to worship God anytime. The communion and the contribution are limited by the Bible to the first day of each week.

The congregation here at 4840 Cemetery Road invites you to attend any of our scheduled services:

All of the members of churches of Christ have been born again, they have been added to the church by our Lord, notice Acts 2:47,

Churches of Christ worship God in spirit and in truth because that is the way that God wants His people to worship Him, John 4:23-24,

23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and truth: for such doth the Father seek to be his worshippers.

One of the important factors that man must take into account as he considers his relationship to other people, the government, his family, his relationship with God, etc. is his built in capacity to choose between right and wrong. Every person has the ability to choose between good and evil when they reach the age of accountability - cf., Ezekiel 18:20-21, "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. <> But if the wicked turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die." ASV -- The two verses listed here indicate that everyone will be responsible for their own personal conduct some day as they stand before God to be judged. Since everyone will be personally responsible for their sin it is imperative that each person seek and do whatever is essential so that they will be pleasing and acceptable to God when their life ends here on this earth - see Revelation 2:10 following, and notice especially the last part of the verse, "Fear not the things which thou art about to suffer: behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days. Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life." ASV

At some time in our life we need to get serious about the reality of God and our need to make that personal decision about our sins. Sins do not just go away, we must decide to eradicate them ourselves from our life - we must be born again (i.e., become a Christian). The choice to become a Christian or to remain in our sins is our personal decision to make, how long do you intend to delay before you do what you know you need to do about sin in your life? God tells us via His Written Word that "Today is the acceptable day, today is the day of salvation." - cf., 2 Cor 6:2, "(for he saith, at an acceptable time I hearkened unto thee, and in a day of salvation did I succor thee: behold, now is the acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation):" ASV --- Will you make that personal decision? I know that there are many of you that are reading this bulletin that know that you should serve the Lord; I know that you intend to do what is right some day but please, don't wait too long. You see, we do not know when the last day of our life will come so let us be wise and make things right with God today.

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

DON'T WAIT TOO LONG TO MAKE THE DECISION ABOUT YOUR ETERNAL STATE. GOD IS INDEED VERY PATIENT,

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

"For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life." ASV

Yes, God does love mankind and this great love is sometimes misunderstood, some people think that God's wrath (i.e., judgment of the wicked) is inconsistent with the concept of God's love. The Bible clearly states that God is a God of Love but to suggest that God's love excludes responsibility and consequence as it relates to God's instruction is without Biblical support. Please read the following Biblical references in this matter:

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. ASV

10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. ASV

10 For, He that would love life, And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips that they speak no guile:

11 And let him turn away from evil, and do good; Let him seek peace, and pursue it.

3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. ASV

6 And this is love, that we should walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, even as ye heard from the beginning, that ye should walk in it. ASV

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

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

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

The life of a Christian is a life of constant attention to spiritual details if it is to be successful. The Christian that does not take care to be correct in his life with regard to God's instruction will surely fail to acquire that desired goal, "Heaven." Please notice the following Scriptural references that attest to this fact:

14 For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

15 And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.

16 Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.

18 But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.

19 After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.

20 And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.

21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

22 He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.

23 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

24 Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed:

25 And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.

26 His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed:

27 Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.

28 Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.

29 For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.

30 And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (KJV)

This parable teaches us that our life as Christians is to be lived out performing service to God with whatever talents (i.e., abilities) that we possess.

10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt 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. (KJV)

Although this passage is addressed to one of the sever churches of Asia, the truth enjoined upon those Christians nearly 20 centuries ago is still applicable to us today -- "live faithful until we die."

The winter is about gone and we sure are happy to see some warm weather in the future.

Stewart and Rita Eldridge placed their membership with the congregation here during the Sunday [AM] worship service. We are happy to have them join with us in the good work for God here on Cemetery Road.

Several gospel meetings are scheduled throughout central Ohio during the next 2 months; we want to let everyone know of the location and speakers. The meeting announcements are posted on the bulletin board in the vestibule.

Do not forget our gospel meeting here on Cemetery Road – brother Mike Willis from Indianapolis, Indians will be here to proclaim the gospel message. The dates will be May 13-18, 2007. An announcement is posted on the bulletin board in the vestibule.

The fall gospel meeting planned for October is almost complete; we will have several speakers from several places. We will have a later announcement of this meeting!

Garreth L. Clair and Barbara will be away April 8-13, 2007 for a gospel meeting in Dalton, Georgia. Let us keep them in mind during their time away from us.

Garreth and Barbara will have another gospel meeting April 29-May 4, 2007 in Marion, Arkansas, Marion is just across the Mississippi River from Memphis.

Cody Archer has recently received the Eagle Scout Award. Brother Clair gave the Benediction at this event, Saturday, March 10, 2007. Congratulations Cody!

Do not forget the Ladies Bible study at the home of the Paula O’Neil on Saturday April 14..

13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:

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;

3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?

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

11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.

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

13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.

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

15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.

14 "Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch."

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

9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; (KJV)

The problem often faced by worldly people is ”what do I do next?“ Indeed, this is last resort for people who have followed the Devil all their life and suddenly find themselves in a predicament where they do not know where to go or what to say. The person who follows the worldly crowd will probably find themselves involved in, unlawful activities [i.e. drug use or selling of illegal drugs, prostitution, lying, cheating, gambling, adultery, thefts, robbery, and etc.]. Many people at this point in life have been apprehended by the local, county, state, or federal authorities and will soon face a jury on criminal charges. This is for many worldly people the first time they have given any serious thought to the decisions that brought them to this juncture in life. Yet, may such people realize at this bad time in their life that everything has gotten as bad as it can get, ”What can I do now? Where can I go? How did I get here?“ The truth of their situation is simple, they made bad decisions and choose to follow through on those decisions. This is their root problem; they chose to do those things over a period of time that led them into deeper and deeper trouble with the lawful authorities due to their choice to break established laws.

Whenever people make decisions based upon their free will to do so, they must ultimately face the consequence for their decisions. When a person has violated the laws of man and God they are surely headed toward a day of accounting for their decisions. It is true, that every decision that one makes, either good or bad carries with it the ultimate day of retribution [i.e. facing the music or being accountable]. There has never been a time in man’s existence when he was at liberty to escape retribution for his deeds. The first man and woman [i.e. Adam and Eve – Genesis 3:1-24] were not immune from accountability to God’s law and subsequent humankind has had the same problem. Apparently mankind has an inclination to make wrong decisions based upon their innate ability to choose, this does not mean that mankind is somehow born evil or totally corrupt at birth as our Calvinist friends suggest.

Since mankind does have this free will facility to choose either good or bad with everything in life, why does mankind so often choose to turn away from compliance to established law? We are at a loss generally to answer the why of man’s ability to choose to violate man and God’s laws more often than to accept them and abide therein. One of the problems that face everyone is the frailty of the human condition; man is possessed of a body and mind that requires constant care in both physical and mental preservation. If we fail to care for our body it will not serve us well very long and if we fail to be conscious of our mental choices we will descend into shame and degradation.

There is simply only one realistic decision that man must make in life, that decision ought to be made early in life yet some do not make the decision until they have created a wreck of their life. That decision is to pursue the truths revealed in God’s Book [i.e. the Bible]. God has informed mankind via Jeremiah 10:23, ”O Jehovah, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.“ ASV – From this passage of Holy Scripture we recognize that man’s condition may be unfathomable to him yet if he will pursue the wisdom from God via the Bible, God’s plan for his life can be understood and followed.

Acts 2:37-40, ”37 Now when they heard (this,) they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and the rest of the apostles, Brethren, what shall we do?

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

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

40 And with many other words he testified, and exhorted them, saying, save yourselves from this crooked generation.“ ASV

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

Eph 3:17-21, 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; to the end that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be strong to apprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge, that ye may be filled unto all the fullness of God. 20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 unto him (be) the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus unto all generations for ever and ever. Amen.“ ASV

Acts 2:47, ”47 praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to them day by day those that were

Remember this; whenever man makes the decision to proceed in life without God’s direction he will surely live a life of unlawful and unscriptural activities. Often those that live a worldly life are self destructive, bringing upon themselves many sorrows. But the person who turns to God for instruction and chooses to follow God’s instruction will surely be a credit to mankind and to God through righteous action and manner of life. The true Christian may live a life that encourages other people to live righteous lives as well. The Bible teaches us that true Christians are ”the light of the world“ and ”the salt of the earth.“ [Matthew 5:13-16]Consequently one is wise who makes a decision to faithfully serve God throughout their whole life, cf. Romans 12:1-2. February 7, 2007 --- glclair@aol.com or glclair@sbcglobal.net

problems that have divided churches of Christ in the last 60 years. He will discuss history, causes, and results of this problem that has only caused the rift to grow with the liberal element. You must be here each night to hear these good lessons on history and digression.)

Everyone is invited to join us in a period of singing beginning at 3:00 PM, Sunday May 13th.

Song leaders from other congregations will be encouraged to be here and participate with us in this event.

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

"Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, Before the difficult days come, And the years draw near when you say, "I have no pleasure in them" NKJV.

Proverbs 20:29, "The glory of young men is their strength, And the splendor of old men is their gray head" NKJV.

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

14 Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers.

15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

16 But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness.

18 who have strayed concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past;

19 Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: "The Lord knows those who are His," and, "Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity."

20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor.

21 Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.

22 Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

24 And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient,

25 in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth,

26 and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will" NKJV.

Ø Know this, everyone who claims to be worthy are not necessarily so, some are of clay value not of gold or silver value - verse 20.

Ø Do not allow your youthful passions to lead you astray, maintain faithfulness - verse 22.

Ø Confront those that are in opposition to God's teaching in a kind way, seeking their restoration - verse 25.

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

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

32 'You shall rise before the gray headed and honor the presence of an old man, and fear your God: I am the LORD" NKJV.

31 The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, If it is found in the way of righteousness"

2 And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. NKJV

Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them.

18 For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple.

19 For your obedience has become known to all. Therefore I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil" NKJV.

10 According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it.

11 For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ"

12 For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise" NKJV.

9 And moreover, because the Preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yes, he pondered and sought out and set in order many proverbs.

10 The Preacher sought to find acceptable words; and what was written was upright -- words of truth.

11 The words of the wise are like goads, and the words of scholars are like well-driven nails, given by one Shepherd.

12 And further, my son, be admonished by these. Of making many books, there is no end, and much study is wearisome to the flesh. 13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His

14 For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, Whether good or evil"

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

and are able to adjust their affections and commitments as they are shown the reasonableness of God's requirements on their lives.

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

continuation in difficult tasks, interaction with other faithful ones outside the assemblies, and generally laboring in the work of the Lord for the young preacher verses the older preacher. It may be difficult for the young person to visualize this matter but age makes a difference in strength and stamina for service in God's vineyard. We understand that this is so after we have attained to an advanced age but while we are still young we do not dwell very much on the realities of this subject, "age" verses the "strength of youth."

untiring dedication and untiring service in the Lord's work. Always be steadfast in faithful service standing always for the 'TRUTH." There will come a time in your future, when "… the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you say, "I have no pleasure in them" NKJV - (Ecclesiastes 12:1b).

Many people today do not think that it makes any difference to God whether one is a Protestant, Catholic, Buddhist, Moslem, Mormon, Hindu, Jehovah’s Witness, Witch, Voodoo believer, or any other kind of religious person, so long as you are honest and sincere. Such an open-minded approach to religion would be ok if there were no standard by which all religions were graded. You see, there is a standard by which all existing religions are graded, that standard is God’s Standard [i.e. the Bible – the 66 Books – Genesis –Revelation].

I would be the first to agree that many religious people are members of their particular religion because of honest convictions and sincere allegiance. Even though this is true of most religious people, honesty and sincerity does not exempt them from compliance to the existing standard, the Bible. The Bible is a Book that has been inspired {i.e. ”God breathed“ information} so that mankind might have a book of true standards that will always be the same for everyone, forever. Consequently, every person in all ages from the recorded beginning of the New Covenant [cf. Acts 2:1-47], have been amenable to this document and its contents.

Salvation from sin is one of the great accomplishments of God’s Son, Jesus Christ. We can see from [John 3:16, ”For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life.“ and 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] that this is a correct commentary on God’s plan for mankind. This plan of God was not designed for only a few people, it was designed for everyone ho has lived on the earth since it became effective [i.e. Acts 2].

For this cause, mankind today ought to submit to the plan that God has so graciously made available to all of us regardless of race or national origin. We can see from appealing to the Bible that God’s plan for man’s salvation is offered to the whole of mankind, cf.

Matthew 28:18-20, ”18 And Jesus came to them and spoke unto them, saying, All authority hath been given unto me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit: 20 teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.“ ASV

”38 And Peter (said) unto them, Repent ye, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ unto the remission of your sins; and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.39 For to you is the promise, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, (even) as many as the Lord our God shall call unto him.40 And with many other words he testified, and exhorted them, saying, Save yourselves from this crooked generation.“ ASV

FAITHFUL means many things to many people, yet one facet to faithfulness to God is being in worship regularly> Are you a faithful member of the church

16 times each year to hear the gospel proclaimed during 2 gospel meetings --- NOTE, our gospel meeting dates elsewhere in this issue.

2 Free Bible correspondence courses by mail for you or to enroll your friends and interested contacts

Free audio-cassette tapes on a variety of subjects to take home or hear and study with your Bible here at the building

In home Bible studies for anyone who wants to study the Bible in a private setting at home or here at the meeting-house at your request.

If you do not have a Bible and cannot get one let us know, we will provide you with a Bible ”FREE“.

The work here never ends, those of us that MAKE UP THE CHURCH HERE ARE ALWAYS BUSY DOING God’s work. There is always something that I [we] can do to promote and encourage other people to seek, live, and pursue righteousness continually, 24/7.

GOSPEL MEETING

May 13-18, 2007

Plan to be here if possible.

Info. 850-7252

The great malady that affects so many people today is a lack of real contentment. Now, contentment is the quiet acceptance of unchangeable circumstances and conditions of life that we receive naturally and a willingness to change [i.e. use our free-moral-agency] those conditions and circumstance that are themselves under our power to change.

The lack of contentment therefore in many cases is caused by our own unwillingness to change that which we are capable of changing. There are many people who could make their lives better by increasing their degree of contentment with life changes and modifications that will not do so. To these people we urgently suggest that they examine the reasons for their unhappiness and discontent and come to a radically new decision – put forth an all out effort to change the situations that are causing you discontent. The individual who suffers from unhappiness and lacks contentment may be able to become contented with their life through a change in relationship with their Creator [i.e. God].

The concept that a change in man’s relationship with God will give them a sense of contentment is grounded, not only in common sense but also in the teachings if the Bible [i.e. God’s instructions to mankind]. Please observe the following Biblical information in this regard:

God is the Creator, not only of mankind but of man’s environment - Genesis 1:1-3, ”1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 And the earth was waste and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep: and the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the water.

God created man, Genesis Gen 2:21-24, ”21 And Jehovah God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof: 22 and the rib, which Jehovah God had taken from the man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. 23 And the man said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. 24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.“ ASV

Even though God made man perfect, man was given the ability to choose between good and evil. This human quality was given to man so that man might voluntarily choose to obey God, thus glorifying him. Man has always possessed the ability to choose to serve God or to reject God, this quality is necessary for man’s very survival. Someone may say, ”Why, then did God make us so that we could commit sin?“ Thisis a good question but simple to answer from God’s perspective, if God had created man to automatically [i.e. robot fashion] to obey him, what glory would that have been? If man had been made like a robot his responses to God’s instruction would have been automatic – Since God made man with ”free-will“, man has the ability to individually submit self to the instruction of God thereby glorifying God – cf. 1 Peter 4:11, ”if any man speaketh, (speaking) as it were oracles of God; if any man ministereth, (ministering) as of the strength which God supplieth: that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, whose is the glory and the dominion for ever and ever. Amen. ”ASV

Indeed, God has provided everythingman needs to survive this world and eventually go to heaven if man chooses correctly with his innate ability. Please observe the following Biblical references: 2 Peter 1:3-4, ”3 seeing that his divine power hath granted unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that called us by his own glory and virtue; 4 whereby he hath granted unto us his precious and exceeding great promises; that through these ye may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust.“ ASV

3. MAN IS UNABLE OF HIMSELF TO FORMULATE A PROCESS THAT WILL SAVE HIM FROM HIS SINS:

Now, sin is a transgression of Divine Law – Sin is a failure to comply with Divine instruction – sin is a missing of the mark [i.e. pattern] set by God, etc. Man may know what God’s instructions for his well being are by seeking His guidance via the Written Word of instruction [i.e. the Bible]. Jeremiah 10:23, ”O Jehovah, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.“ ASV Since man cannot know without God telling him, man must go to God’s Book and seek knowledge and wisdom about surviving happily this life [i.e. physical death].

Many people today are wandering from place to place, from relationship to relationship, from church to church, seeking peace and security. Only God is able to give this to us, we must seek wisdom from above [i.e. from God’s Book] so that we might gain that which we so need in our life here, contentment“ [i.e. peace]. Notice carefully the wording of the following passage from

the Bible; Philippians 4:7-9, ”7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honorable, 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. 9 The things which ye both learned and received and heard and saw in me, these things do: and the God of peace shall be with you.“ ASV

That this statement is true cannot be denied by the student of the Bible, for the

following passages say that death is sure; 1 Corinthians 15:50-57, ”50 Now this I say,

brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I tell you a mystery: We all shall not sleep, but we shall all be changed , 52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall

sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 But when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is thy victory? O death, where is thy sting? 56 The sting of death is sin; and the power of sin is the law: 57 but thanks be to God, who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus

The powers of evil will go to great lengths to turn the honest and honorable seeker of truth to a false doctrinal concept and cause one to follow error instead of follow the truth –--

Matthew 24:23-24, ”23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is the Christ, or, Here; believe (it) not.24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.“ ASV

Mark 13:22, ”22 for there shall arise false Christs and false prophets, and shall show signs and wonders, that they may lead astray, if possible, the elect.“ ASV

With seriousness the person seeking heaven must be careful about dealing with those that would teach them about righteousness. Many are misguided and are spiritually blinded, for this reason one must seek truth that comes from God’s Written Word properly interpreted. One ought to seek out a good, word for word translation of the Holy Scriptures so that they will know what the Bible teaches and not what some person thinks it teaches. Matt 15:12-14,

”12 Then came the disciples, and said unto him, Knows thou that the Pharisees were offended, when they heard this saying? 13 but he answered and said, every plant which my heavenly Father planted not, shall be rooted up. 14 Let them alone: they are blind guides. And if the blind guide the blind, both shall fall into a pit.“ ASV

Honest truth seekers, be careful to check your sources – John 8:32, ”and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.“ Indeed, all men seek contentment,

The question in our heading is a question that the apostle Peter posed many years ago to the question from the Lord, "will you also go away?" There have been many times in my life that I have mentally asked myself the same question that Peter ask, "Lord, to whom shall we go?" The Bible reference reads, John 6:68, "Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life." ASV

The answer that Peter gave to the question that Jesus ask him indicates that Peter knew for sure that there was no other person to whom one could turn to gain the knowledge of salvation from sin. The understanding that Peter reveals to us about his estimation of Jesus knowledge indicates that he believed very deeply that Jesus was the Messiah. We can have the same kind of confidence in Jesus today because we have the completed Bible that attests to His Divinity.

There is not a person living today that does not need to be saved from their sin. Since this is man's condition he needs to hear and heed the words of Jesus. As Peter says of the Lord in the context here, "… thou hast the words of eternal life." Nothing in this world is more important than knowing to whom we must turn {i.e., heed} so that we will be able to solve the problem of sin in our life today. Jesus later says, "And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you John 8:32. We must always be aware of the fact; Jesus has the answer to sin in our life. Indeed, man can be saved from his sin if he is willing to seek it in the teaching of Christ and in his apostles teaching.

The answer that Peter gave to the question that Jesus asks him indicates Peter knew for sure that there was no other person to whom one could turn to gain the knowledge of salvation from sin. The understanding that Peter reveals to us about his estimation of Jesus knowledge indicates that he believed very deeply that Jesus IS the Messiah.

We must always be aware of the fact; Jesus has the answer to sin in our life. Indeed, man can be saved from his sin if he is willing to seek it in the teaching of Christ [i.e. the Written Word – ”BIBLE“]. glc

Many people I have known over the years have made decisions about Biblical concepts such as baptism, fellowship. Faith only, marriage, divorce, adultery, elder’s qualifications, mechanical music, institutional practices, Herald of Truth operations, and etc. I have seen some good brethren and sisters publicly sweat as they listened to Biblical teaching on some concepts that they were considering. Indeed, the ability to make choices that we possess is often a great burden, most of the time we make the right decisions but those rare times when outside and close ties are at stake [i.e. family, money, fame, position, etc.] we may stumble while making the choice between truth and error. This thought I have presented is absolutely true, many good men and women that I have known have given up the sound position [i.e. the truth] for error because of extenuating circumstance or family ties or some other pressure that was just too great.

The Bible is full of examples that show God’s people have made wrong choices many times in past history also.

Actually our first parents [i.e. Adam and Eve], had to make a choice between following God’s instructions or not. They choose to reject God’s instruction for selfish reasons. Eve wanted to know, wanted to be pleased, apparently longed for more than ”PARADISE“ --- I have often wondered where the phrase, ”Paradise Lost“ came from, I think I know after considering Eve’s fall from good relationship with God and leading her husband into sin too. Then there is Aaron, who while Moses was upon Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments he fashioned a golden calf for the Israelites to worship instead of Jehovah. Now Aaron had a choice but the people pressured him and he gave in to the pressure.

How sad is this person who turns from the truth to a false way especially later when he/she comes to their senses and weeps bitterly over their failure. The human ties that we possess may undo a lifetime of faithful service to God because it is just too devastating. Man is often influenced too greatly by friends, loved ones, or desires to hold on, he gives in to sin and then seeks to justify his sin through human reason. We must be faithful even when it is inconvenient, even when our family objects, even when we know that it will sever relationships that we have with other people; yes we must hold on to the truth --- 1 Cor 10:13, ”There hath no temptation taken you but such as man can bear: but God is faithful , who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation make also the way of escape, that ye may be able to endure it.“ ASV

13 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)

What a happy and consoling thought, "but God is faithful" This statement tells us that God is faithful to keep man from having to give in to Satan's temptations. Even when man reaches a point that seems to be his limit of endurance God will provide a means of escape. What a wonderful guarantee to the true Christian in all of his battles with the flesh, he can survive.

The test tells us that we can survive all of Satan's temptations if we will to do so. But, sometimes even though we know this truth we do yield to temptation and fall from grace (i.e., backslide). Even when we have fallen God has made arrangements for us to be restored to faithful service, Notice the following Biblical illustration: Acts 8:13-24,

13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

14 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:

15 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:

16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)

18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,

19 Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.

20 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.

21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.

22 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.

23 For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.

24 Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me. (KJV)

Simon became a Christian but after this he sinned (i.e., backslide), he was told what to do to be restored anew. Any Christian who backslides can be restored today the same way - study the passage well!

Each day that we live here in the world we are continually exposed to all that goes on in our world. The good, the bad, the disgusting, etc. are all show to us via the electronic media. Nothing happens in our world that we do not know about almost immediately. For some strange reason the electronic media and the printed media show mostly the awful, evil, side of events that occur. Perhaps these media moguls are convinced that sensationalism is the way to build ratings for their shows, apparently they believe horror, mayhem, sex, and violence sells anything.

As we consider these things let us always be aware of the potential danger that exposure to this type of media exposure may bring us. It is not too great an exaggeration to suggest that whatever we allow ourselves to imbibe within our mind will eventually influence our character. Read Matthew 15:17-20 17 Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught? 18

But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. 19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: 20 These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashed hands defiles not a man. We are all products of whatever we allow to enter our heart (i.e., seat of intellect) through our eyes and through our hearing. Because our character is established by whatever we see and hear, we must be very careful of those things that we hear and see.

Each day that we live we will occupy our time doing something. We would be ill advised to spend too much time observing media programming that is designed for our viewing, it will surely have an effect upon our character eventually. There may be some programs that will not adversely affect our character but at this particular point in time I know of no such program.

Time goes on! That is a fact for all of us to deal with day after day. Dealing with spare time may become a problem for those who have an abundance of it. Remember this: nothing is valuable if it is does not increase our faith in God, Christ, and spiritual things in general; Ecclesiastes 10:18, ”By much slothfulness the building decayeth; and through idleness of the hands the house droppeth through. (KJV) --- 1 Timothy 4:13, "Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine."

Do you think it is impossible to resist God? Since God created the universe, it would seem that the question is foolish yet the Bible teaches that man has resisted God's goodness toward him from the very beginning. Please notice the following verses of Scripture about man's capacity to resist God:

51 Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.

8 Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.

8 Now be ye not stiff-necked, as your fathers were, but yield yourselves unto the LORD, and enter into his sanctuary, which he hath sanctified for ever: and serve the LORD your God, that the fierceness of his wrath may turn away from you. (KJV)

51 Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do you. (KJV)

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

6 I hearkened and heard, but they spake not aright: no man repented him of his wickedness, saying, what have I done? Every one turned to his course, as the horse rusheth into the battle. (KJV)

7 And my people are bent to backsliding from me: though they called them to the most high, none at all would exalt him.

Dear brother Clair, how is it possible for three different opinions about things the Bible teaches in two different groups within the congregation exist? This is what is going on here with the church – can you give me some idea how to solve this problem. I have not experienced such a condition before.

The great work involved in being a member of the church of Christ is surely on the mind of each child of God continually. One of the passions of brotherhood in Christ is our concern for each other and our continued good mental [i.e. spiritual] health. We must seek to understand and encouraging one another in spiritual things as well as those things that make for healthy and maturing directions as Christians. The Word of God tells us to consider one another to provoke unto love and good works – Hebrews 10:24-25, ”24 and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works; 25 not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting (one another); and so much the more, as ye see the day drawing nigh.“ ASV

Good works may be anything authorized by God for the perfecting of the Christian in mind and body both spiritually and materially. Now, I suggest this based on the statement of Christ where he instructs disciples to be conscious of daily food and forgive us of debts as we also forgive other people of their debts, He also tells us to request help to deal with temptations [i.e. from every source – both spiritually and materially] Matt 6:9-14, ”9 After this manner therefore pray ye. Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so on earth. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And bring us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil (one.) 14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.“ ASV --- There is ample instruction throughout the New Testament that teaches Christians to interact together for the purpose of strengthening one another and assisting one another to keep walking in the true light of God’s perfect way. Cf. 2 John 9-11, ”9 Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God: he that abideth in the teaching, the same hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If any one cometh unto you, and bringeth not this teaching, receive him not into (your) house, and give him no greeting: 11 for he that giveth him greeting partaketh in his evil works.“ ASV

Since God knows us best, let us interact together in a spirit of love and fellowship together in Him. Christians work best when they work together, not in cliques. Let us always be mindful that we do not allow ourselves to be drawn into competing factions within the church. Nothing but division and factionalism will result from fragmentation of the congregation into competing factions for whatever good or otherwise purpose. Cf. Heb 10:24, ”24 and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works;“ ASV

1 John 4:5-11, ”5 They are of the world: therefore speak they (as) of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he who is not of God heareth us not. By this we know the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. 7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is begotten of God, and knoweth God. 8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. 9 Herein was the love of God manifested in us, that God hath sent his only begotten Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son (to be) the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.“ ASV

1 Peter 3:10-11, ”10 For, He that would love life, And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips that they speak no guile: 11 And let him turn away from evil, and do good; Let him seek peace, and pursue it.“ ASV

James 4:11-17, ”11 Speak not one against another, brethren. He that speaketh against a brother, or judgeth his brother, speaketh against the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judgest the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. 12 One (only) is the lawgiver and judge, (even) he who is able to save and to destroy: but who art thou that judgest thy neighbor? 13 Come now, ye that say, Today or tomorrow we will go into this city, and spend a year there, and trade, and get gain: 14 whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. What is your life? For ye are a vapor, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. 15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall both live, and do this or that. 16 But now ye glory in your vauntings: all such glorying is evil. 17 To him therefore that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.“ ASV

together in the ”spirit of unity in the bond of peace“ {i.e. Eph 4:3} as a people of God united in a common purpose and hope. Cf. Psalms133:1, ”Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! 2 It is like the precious oil upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard; that came down upon the skirt of his garments; 3 Like the dew of Hermon, that cometh down upon the mountains of Zion: for there Jehovah commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.“ ASV

Eph 4:3, ”3 giving diligence to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Eph 4:13-16, ”13 till we all attain unto the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a full-grown man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: 14 that we may be no longer children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, in craftiness, after the wiles of error; 15 but speaking truth in love, we may grow up in all things into him, who is the head, (even) Christ;16 from whom all the body fitly framed and knit together through that which every joint supplieth, according to the working in (due) measure of each several part, maketh the increase of the body unto the building up of itself in love.“ ASV

Did you ever feel that some other Christians seem to be able to do everything in the congregation but you cannot do very much? Did you feel uncomfortable because you could not do what someone else could do in God’s service? I am sure there are many faithful disciples in the church who would like to do everything just like some of the other brothers and sisters in Christ but cannot. Should you feel guilty or slighted in some way because you cannot compete with some of the members in the congregation? I am convinced that the Bible tells us that there are different abilities that different people possess.

In Matthew 25:15-27, Jesus tells a parable of different people who were given differing amounts of money [i.e. talents], to each one of these they were given something to use in God’s service the individual who had the least hid his ability [i.e. talent] and did not use it. Therefore the Lord condemned him for not using what he had not for having less that the others but because he refused to apply his ability {i.e. 1 talent} where it could

TEXT of MATTHEW 25:15-27 --- ”15 And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one; to each according to his several ability; and he went on his journey.

16 Straightway he that received the five talents went and traded with them, and made other five talents.

18 But he that received the one went away and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.

19 Now after a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and maketh a reckoning with them.

20 And he that received the five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: lo, I have gained other five talents.

21 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will set thee over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

22 And he also that (received) the two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: lo, I have gained other two talents.

23 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will set thee over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

24 And he also that had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art a hard man, reaping where thou didst not sow, and gathering where thou didst not scatter;

25 and I was afraid, and went away and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, thou hast thine own.

26 But his lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I did not scatter;

27 thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the bankers, and at my coming I should have received back mine own with interest.“ ASV

When a Christian is doing everything that they know to do to be pleasing to God regardless of their small or large talents, God will be pleased with their effort on His behalf. Everyone is different in useful qualities, therefore when we as an individual use our abilities in such a way to promote Jesus Christ and to glorify the Godhead we have done an acceptable work - Romans 8:28, ”28 And we know that to them that love God all things work together for good, (even) to them that are called according to (his) purpose.“ ASV

Matthew 22:39, ”And a second like (unto it) is this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.“ ASV

James 2:8-9, ”8 Howbeit 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 of persons, ye commit sin, being convicted by the law as transgressors.“ ASV

Whatever abilities that God has blessed us with let us use to His glory and always seek His will in everything that we do both spiritually and materially. There is so much that a Christian can find to do in God’s service that surely every one will be able to find a place where they fit in, a place or an action that will build up themselves and build up the church of which they are a member. ”Let us work the works of God!“

The normal interaction of humans will invariably include disputes between them over many and sundry points or items that are common to all. Perhaps we may better point this out by showing that this has always been true of man from the beginning of God’s creation. From a personal point of concern, I have continued to pursue God’s way in spite of opposition several times in my life as a preacher [i.e. teacher] of God’s Word. There have been many times as I have presented God’s Written Word to an audience, that after the study I have been ask to clarify [i.e. or defend] my teaching on a certain point, this is a normal interaction with an audience under normal circumstance. In my early years as a teacher of God’s Written Word I was impatient with those who would question what I had taught. This impatience often led me to improperly impugn the motives of everyone who questioned those things that I was teaching.

There are many instances where examples of disputes are revealed in the Holy Scriptures sometimes the disputants were honest and sometimes one [i.e. or more than one] of them was dishonest, please note the following example:

Eve and the Devil [i.e. the Devil disputed with Eve about God’s instruction] --- 2 Cor 11:2-3, ”2 For I am jealous over you with a godly jealousy: for I espoused you to one husband, that I might present you (as) a pure virgin to Christ. 3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve in his craftiness, your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity and the purity that is toward Christ.“ ASV

1 Tim 2:13-14, ”13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve; 14 and Adam was not beguiled, but the woman being beguiled hath fallen into transgression:“ ASV

EVE LOST HER WAY BECAUSE SHE DID NOT STAND FIRM WITH THE TRUTH THAT SHE HAD RECEIVED FROM GOD - Gen 2:16-17, ”16 And Jehovah God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: 17 but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shall not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shall surely die.“ ASV … Garreth L. Clair

There is no greater work that we could undertake than that of being a faithful Christian. There are many people today who profess to be Christians who are really so only by name, being a Christian is a full time profession. The true and faithful Christian is that person who lives their life as a Christian every day [i.e. 24/7], without regret. There are many passages of Holy Scripture that tell us faithfulness to God is a good work, a work worthy of each person. Please notice the following truth about being faithful as a servant of Jesus Christ:

Matthew 25:14-28, ”14 For (it is) as (when) a man, going into another country, called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

15 And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one; to each according to his several ability; and he went on his journey.

16 Straightway he that received the five talents went and traded with them, and made other five talents.

18 But he that received the one went away and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.

19 Now after a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and maketh a reckoning with them.

20 And he that received the five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: lo, I have gained other five talents.

21 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will set thee over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

22 And he also that (received) the two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: lo, I have gained other two talents.

23 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will set thee over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

24 And he also that had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art a hard man, reaping where thou didst not sow, and gathering where thou didst not scatter; 25 and I was afraid, and went away and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, thou hast thine own. 26 But his lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I did not scatter;

27 thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the bankers, and at my coming I should have received back mine own with interest.

28 Take ye away therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him that hath the ten talents.“ ASV ... Garreth L. Clair

Surely we can see the wisdom in warning and even nagging those in the church who are not keeping up with the services on a regular basis. The problem of being late for Gospel Meetings, Bible classes, and worship are generally a problem for those with misplaced priorities. The following drawing was taken from the pages of the bulletin for the church where Norman Fultz preaches in Kansas City.

”20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit,

21 keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.

23 and some save, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy with fear; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.

24 Now unto him that is able to guard you from stumbling, and to set you before the presence of his glory without blemish in exceeding joy,

25 to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, (be) glory, majesty, dominion and power, before all time, and now, and for evermore. Amen.“ ASV

Indeed, we need to switch cars [i.e. change our course] when we have priorities wrong.

THE FOLLOWING POINT FROM JOHN 21 GIVES US AN IDEA OF HOW MUCH WE OUGHT TO LOVE THE LORD --- John 21:15-17,

”15 So when they had broken their fast, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, (son) of John, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

”16 He saith to him again a second time, Simon, (son) of John, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Tend my sheep.

17 He saith unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my

LOVE (Agape), 2 Peter 1:7, ”and in (your) godliness brotherly kindness; and in (your) brotherly kindness love.“ ASV - DEFINITION {i.e. Greek Lexicon}, LOVE (NOUN AND VERB): 2. phileo NT: 5368 is to be distinguished from agapao in this, that phileo more nearly represents "tender affection." The two words are used for the "love" of the Father for the Son, John 3:35 (No. 1), and 5:20 (No. 2); for the believer, 14:21 (No. 1) and 16:27 (No. 2); both, of Christ's "love" for a certain disciple, 13:23 (No. 1), and 20:2 (No. 2). Yet the distinction between the two verbs remains, and they are never used indiscriminately in the same passage; if each is used with reference to the same objects, as just mentioned, each word retains its distinctive and essential character.

Phileo is never used in a command to men to "love" God; it is, however, used as a warning in 1 Cor 16:22; agapao is used instead, e. g., Matt 22:37; Luke 10:27; Rom 8:28; 1 Cor 8:3; 1 Peter 1:7; 1 John 4:21. The distinction between the two verbs finds a conspicuous instance in the narrative of John 21:15-17. The context itself indicates that agapao in the first two questions suggests the "love" that values and esteems (cf. Rev 12:11). It is an unselfish "love," ready to serve. The use of phileo in Peter's answers and the Lord's third question, conveys the thought of cherishing the Object [i.e. the Lord] above all else, of manifesting an affection characterized by constancy, from the motive of the highest veneration. See also Trench, Syn., and Sec. Xii. Again, to "love" (phileo) life, from an undue desire to preserve it, forgetful of the real object of living, meets with the Lord's reproof, John 12:25. On the contrary, to "love" life (agapao) as used in 1 Peter 3:10, is to consult the true interests of living. Here the word phileo would be quite inappropriate.

DO WE [i.e. Christians] really love the Lord whenever we without guilt miss the appointed assemblies, consistently come to meetings late, and generally show by our actions [i.e. conversation – manner of life] that we put the Lord our God and His works second or third or even further down the list of our priorities? Please note the following verses of Scripture about priorities:

32 For after all these things do the Gentiles seek; for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.33 But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 34 Be not therefore anxious for the morrow: for the morrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.“ ASV

”1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

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

11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

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

13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.“ (KJV)

We encourage everyone to participate in the visiting of the sick and the shut in as we have opportunity. Remember; we ought to visit the sick and afflicted because we want to, not because we feel it is a duty to perform. James 1:27, "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. (KJV)

Righteousness is a characteristic that each person may have but a characteristic that each person must consciously develop. The idea that someone else may stand in our stead for our righteousness is not contained in all the teaching of the Bible. The Bible does teach personal responsibility for self as in

Ezekiel 18:19-24, "Yet say ye, Why? doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live. 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 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live. Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live? But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die. (KJV)

Righteousness then, is the deliberate and considerate choice that each person makes - the person may choose to serve God and be righteous or he may choose the opposite course and continue to be in a lost condition. Every person has the power within to serve god or the Devil. Some choose not to serve God and yet they plead that they are not serving the Devil but are considering the choices. There is no gray area in our spiritual state - we are either righteous by choice or evil by choice and/or neglect.

YOU CAN BE RIGHTEOUS TODAY IF YOU HAVE A DESIRE TO BE SO. THERE IS NO PERSON SO WICKED THAT THEY CANNOT BE SAVED FROM SIN. THE ONLY PERSON WHO WILL BE LOST IS THE PERSON WHO DID NOT SEEK SALVATION ACCORDING TO GOD'S INSTRUCTIONS.

Among those congregations that Barbara and I have had the pleasure to work with in our life, the congregation here on Cemetery Road is one of the very best. The membership is generally zealous to do those things that will encourage the growth and maintain the soundness of the church; this is a characteristic that is missing in many places today.

No congregation of God's people can prosper when there is not a determined spirit within the membership to be correct with God. The concept of correctness with God is more important than anything else that Christians in any generation may be or seek to accomplish. The very idea of conforming to anything is repulsive to most of modern society and yet the very spirit of conformity to God's instructions is the condition of salvation from sin. Since conformity (i.e., allowing God's Word to lead us) is the condition necessary to salvation we find it not to be a burden but in reality a blessing as we comprehend the things of God.

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)

Anyone who has a desire to have a home Bible study (i.e., a Bible study in your home), please let Garreth know The home Bible study can be set up for the convenience of you and/or you and your prospect generally at your convenience, feel free to contact Garreth at any time.

One of the very best ways to reach the lost in your family, your friends, etc. is to plan a home Bible study and invite them to come and study God's Word with you and the preacher. You may be pleasantly surprised if you will just try to set up a Bible study this way. For any help you may need call 850-7252

John 8:32, ”And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” (KJV)

This passage of Scripture is important to the Bible student because it tells him that one can be made "free." To be made free in this verse means that one is made free "FROM SIN" through applying the "TRUTH" in his life where it is needed.

Freedom from sin is accomplished whenever one's sins are remitted; and that occurs whenever one complies with the Divine formula revealed in the Bible - please note:

Acts 2:37-38, ”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“ (KJV)

The question then about freedom form sin is settled whenever we understand the Divine formula and apply God's instructions in our sinful life. Whenever we honestly follow the Divine instructions we will come to the correct conclusions about what it is that we need to do about our sin - and then we will do it and become a Christian.

THERE ARE MANY PEOPLE IN THE WORLD WHO WILL NOT BE SAVED FROM THEIR SIN BECAUSE THEY WILL NOT AVAIL THEMSELVES OF THE BENEFITS OF GOD'S INSTRUCTION AND HUMBLY COMPLY.

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

The gospel meeting planned for October 7-12 is coming at us swiftly. Each one of us should consider plans that will enable us to be here for the meeting.

For the meeting this year we have enlisted some good men that all of us know close to the work here on Cemetery Road. We must be here as often during the meeting week to encourage the speakers, the other members, and visitors who will attend from other places.

A FULL PAGE advertisement of the meeting is included within the current bulletin. Please read it and post it somewhere where others will see it.

Garreth Clair is the speaker for a gospel meeting in Norwalk, Ohio the first week in September. Please notice the advertisement on the vestibule bulletin board at the meeting-house.

Everyone is invited to attend if you are in that part of Northwest Ohio during the dates of September 2-7 [Sunday through Friday].

The words that make up the heading are sad words when we consider their far reaching effects on the one who utters them. This is especially true of those who use the phrase in religious discussions to defend their actions. Many people today are using phrases similar to this one to avoid the consequence of their life style. Some examples follow:

2. Many people are afflicted with the "I am a victim" syndrome (i.e., every bad thing or characteristic in their life is attributed to their supposed

3. Problem solving is left to others, these people never attempt to solve any problem for themselves or

4. Many of these people will not take a positive position on any subject, including religion.

5. Many of these people would not be missed if they suddenly disappeared from the earth; they occupy no place of consequence in the world anywhere,

Most of those who have this "I know, but I won't" attitude could be assets to the cause of Christ

But they "won't do it." I wonder how these people will justify this kind of attitude in the last day. Perhaps they will be of that number recorded in;

”1 But the Spirit saith expressly, that in later times some shall fall away from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of demons,

2 through the hypocrisy of men that speak lies, branded in their own conscience as with a hot iron;“ ASV

1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, 2 through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared,

The phrase ‘In the last days’ or in the latter days’ and similar phrases in the New Testament may refer to several events or specific occurrences. The passage here in 1st Timothy surely refers to the last dispensation and events that will occur during that period of time. These last days in the text surely mean that period of time beginning with the establishment of the church or the destruction of Jerusalem. It is my opinion that this period covers the time from Pentecost of Acts 2 until the resurrection and judgment at the last Day.

I. IN THE LAST DAYS FROM Acts 2:17, ”And it shall be in the last days, saith God, I will pour forth of my Spirit upon all flesh: And your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, And your young men shall see visions, And your old men shall dream dreams:“ ASV

NOTE: Surely this refers to the establishment of the church on Pentecost day {Acts 2:1-47}.

1. Some [people] will fall away from the truth. This does not state that they will abandon religion or that they will never go to a religious service again, the passage says they will abandon the ”TRUTH“.

THE CONSEQUENCE OF LEAVING THE TRUTH IS SERIOUS: A. Without truth on cannot be free from sin – John 8:32, ”and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.“ ASV

B. Without truth we cannot know God – 2 Tim 3:7, ”ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.“ ASV

Many will be tricked by seducing philosophies originating in the mind of fallible [i.e. mortal] men.

The Roman Pope – Calls himself ”Holy Father“ --- A title reserved for God – cf. Matthew 23:9, ”And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.“ KJV

***** Some people will follow the devil’s advocates [i.e. Anton Lev – church of satan], etc.

4. The promoters of false teaching or doctrines of demons will deceive many through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared,

”1 But know this, that in the last days grievous times shall come.2 For men shall be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, haughty, railers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 without natural affection, implacable, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, no lovers of good,

4 traitors, headstrong, puffed up, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God;

5 holding a form of godliness, but having denied the power therefore. From these also turn away. 6 For of these are they that creep into houses, and take captive silly women laden with sins, led away by divers lusts, 7 ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.“ ASV

III. IN THE LAST DAYS FROM 2 Peter 3:3-4, ”3 knowing this first, that in the last days mockers shall come with mockery, walking after their own lusts, 4 and saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for, from the day that the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.“ ASV

These passages do not tell us about the timing of the judgment for no man knows when that will be.

But these passages tell us about the continuing condition of people generation after generation. For in this last dispensation of time some will come to God on His terms and many will not.

Rom 5:1-3, ”1 Being therefore justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ;

2 through whom also we have had our access by faith into this grace wherein we stand; and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

3 And not only so, but we also rejoice in our tribulations: knowing that tribulation worketh steadfastness;“ ASV

Do not forget our GOSPEL MEETING taking place the first week of October [i.e. October 7 - 12, 2007]. There will be different speakers each night during the meeting, do plan to be with us each night. A meeting announcement is inserted in this bulletin for your information.

1. It is discussing the truth with a friend or neighbors either at your home of their home.

4. It is inviting the mailman, the plumber or someone else to attend services with you

5. It is picking up your phone to inquire about some member that has not been in services for awhile.

As we finished lesson number 2 of this series it became evident that there is much more to the subject of unity than we had first thought.

Unity is impossible unless religious minded people return to the attitude that prevailed according to Gen 11:1-6, ”1 And the whole earth was of one language and of one speech. 2 And it came to pass, as they journeyed east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar. And they dwelt there. 3 And they said one to another, Come, let us make brick, and burn them thoroughly. And they had brick for stone, and slime had they for mortar. 4 And they said, Come, let us build us a city, and a tower, whose top (may reach) unto heaven, and let us make us a name. Lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth. 5 And Jehovah came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded. 6 And Jehovah said, Behold, they are one people, and they have all one language. And this is what they begin to do. And now nothing will be withholden from them, which they purpose to do.“ ASV

As we can observe by reading the account of the construction of the tower of Babel, whenever mankind unites in such a way as to cause all of the people to have one mind and one desire [i.e. hope], great accomplishments will follow. Indeed, these people united to build a tower to heaven – perhaps thinking that they could go to the place where God exist. Of course this was impossible but God saw a wicked streak in the people He had created. Apparently God understood that the kind of unity that these people possessed was contrary to HIS WILL; consequently he made a decision to stop this kind of unity –-- unauthorized unity for an unauthorized project.

From these facts we may deduct that man cannot attain to unity of religion until a decision is reached by all to work toward unity with one heart. Whenever people unite they could perhaps attain to unity but the history of mankind since the tower of Babel indicates that they will not as a whole people appeal to GOD for instruction pertaining to God approved matters.

IS IT POSSIBLE FOR 21st Century man to agree whole heartily on acceptance of the BIBLE [i.e. the Written Word of God], in all things religious with one accord.

I do not know if this is possible! Man has proven himself in past history to be stubborn and hard-headed when dealing with God’s Word [i.e. instructions]. Since God does not speak from a smoking mountain and does not communicate directly with man [example, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, etc] but communicates with mankind today through His Written Word it require all men of all nations to accept this BOOK [i.e. the BIBLE] as a standard in all religious questions. Until all of those seeking religion’s unity come to the Bible as the only rule of faith and practice there can never be a return to the Tower of Babel type of unity [i.e. where the people are of one mind]. glclair@aol.com ….. Hilliard Bulletin – October 2007 …..

18 And Jesus came to them and spake unto them, saying, All authority hath been given unto me in heaven and on earth.

19 Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit:

20 teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.“ ASV

These are the statements given by Jesus after his resurrection and appearance to his disciples for the first time.

In these three verses of Scripture we have what is referred to by commentators as the ”Great Commission“. The title indicates that Jesus is giving a Great commission [i.e. assignment] to his disciples.

The Great Commission is stated by Jesus in clear language, ”GO YE THEREFORE, and MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL NATIONS….“

Jesus also tells them in these instructions, ”TO BAPTIZE THEM INTO THE NAME OF THE FATHER AND SON AND THE HOLY SPIRIT [i.e. by the authority of God].

The instructions do not stop there, Jesus also tells them to ”teach those baptized {i.e. that are new Christians] to observe all things He has commanded“ and He reminds them that ”He will always be with them EVEN until the end of the world.“

Jesus is still with His people today, as they do His will and serve the one true God faithfully.

”5 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to the whole creation. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that disbelieveth shall be condemned.“ ASV

This passage of Scripture is simple to understand for the honest and sincere seeker of truth. The passage says that ”... He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.“ NOT: ”he that believeth shall be saved and then baptized.“ NO: the passage does not say ”He that believeth shall be saved.“

Would a person professing to be religious and possessing a good knowledge of the English Language and often with knowledge of the original language [i.e. Koine Greek] in which the Bible was written so misapply the teaching of this verse?

Many people are so blinded by a false religion established by mankind that they cannot see the truth of a simple Bible statement because they have been so conditioned through acceptance of that which is error that they are blind [i.e. spiritually], just like many of the Jewish Scholars of the 1st Century Jewish Religion –

”12 Then came the disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, when they heard this saying? 13 But he answered and said, Every plant which my heavenly Father planted not, shall be rooted up. 14 Let them alone: they are blind guides. And if the blind guide the blind , both shall fall into a pit.“ ASV

Some folks are forever studying and seemingly learning but are never able to arrive at the truth – cf. 2 Tim 3:5-7, ”5 holding a form of godliness, but having denied the power therefore. From these also turn away. 6 For of these are they that creep into houses, and take captive silly women laden with sins, led away by divers lusts, 7 ever learning , and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.“ ASV

Whenever we study the Bible or any part of it our interest in knowing has to do with our desire to know so that we will be able to have God’s approval. We do not study and seek deeper meanings to Biblical passages simply for entertainment or for some personal advantage over another person, indeed; we seek knowledge so that we may be acceptable to our God.

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

One of the important pieces of knowledge that each person needs to possess is to know themselves. Now, knowing oneself is not as easy as one might think. There are many problems that the individual must overcome before they will be able to objectively examine themselves and come up with the accurate knowledge – to really know self. As we contemplate an examination of self we must be completely honest with ourselves about many things, a list follows:

Our feelings about other races and the nationality of other people Our feelings about our current role in our chosen field of employment

Our honest feelings about God and the things HE expects of me – I know I should but I won’t.

The truth of the matter is; if we want to really know ourselves we must do an examination of ourselves with complete honesty about every thought process in our mind and body.

A personal examination of self is extremely important for the purpose of happiness and assurance of heaven someday. Indeed, God wants us to know ourselves for through knowledge of ourselves we can compare ourselves honestly with God’s Written Instructions and know if our faith is secure – cf.

2 Cor. 13:5, ”Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?“ KJV

2 John 7-11, ”7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.

9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: 11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.“

CONSIDER THIS: Is your faith secure? Note the following admonition; 2 Cor 13:5-7, ”5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? 6 But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates. 7 Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.“ KJV … Garreth L. Clair – Hilliard Bulletin November 2007 …

The Biblical cases of righteous indignation are several; I will deal with but one such case in the New Testament in this study.

The case I wish to examine in this study is found in three places; in Matthew, Mark, and John. A great lesson in love for righteousness is displayed by our Lord on this occasion. Jesus is overcome by a deep and abiding loyalty to the Father’s rights and the responsibilities of man.

”12 And Jesus entered into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money-changers, and the seats of them that sold the doves;

13 and he saith unto them, It is written, My house shall be called a house of prayer: but ye make it a den of robbers.“ ASV

”15 And they come to Jerusalem: and he entered into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and them that bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money-changers, and the seats of them that sold the doves;

16 and he would not suffer that any man should carry a vessel through the temple.

17 And he taught, and said unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations? but ye have made it a den of robbers.“ ASV

”14 And he found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting:

15 and he made a scourge of cords, and cast all out of the temple, both the sheep and the oxen; and he poured out the changers' money, and overthrew their table;

16 and to them that sold the doves he said, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house a house of merchandise.“ ASV

Jesus was overcome by desire to do the will of the Father, He exhibited a case of righteous indignation that is often overlooked in Bible study.

John 2:17, ”His disciples remembered that it was written, Zeal for thy house shall eat me up.“ ASV

One of the important functions of Christian parents with children is to teach them the way to survive in society. This training will require more than a passing interest, it will require a full time consideration by both parents if they are both available {i.e. sometimes death or divorce eliminates one of the parents] There are many things that can take time away from parents training and cause a great gap in a child’s growth pattern. Every child deserves parent’s attention as they grow up; there is no time that the children ought to be forgotten by concerned parents.

Not only is it an acceptable concept in society but is also instructed by God via the Holy Scriptures in such passage as:

The question is one that many people ask often – ”of themselves“ This method of deciding whether to comply with God’s instruction or not is not very reliable. You see, most of us are creatures of our upbringing, environment, and other circumstances that have given us the intellectual knowledge that we possess. It should not be a shock therefore when we find great difficulty in encouraging and/or establishing Biblical truth with others people. Many times our prospect has been so conditioned by his/her circumstances in life that interesting them in Biblical facts is immaterial and disinteresting to the person.

The problems that many churches are experiencing today with reaching the lost ones with the gospel [i.e. God’s Truth] is due to social as well as calculated designs by wicked people to delete God and all things religious from our lives. Some of the facts of this calculated plan to eliminate God from man’s ability to know Him or hear of Him is found in the actions of man with regard to removing any mention or references to God from the educational systems that the government controls. This is an attempt by evil persons with consent from the government to erase God and keep students in the dark about Him.

God speaks to governments regarding their duty to God and to man in this matter in such passages of Scripture as Romans 13:1-6, ”1 Let every soul be in subjection to the higher powers: for there is no power but of God; and the (powers) that be are ordained of God. 2 Therefore he that resisteth the power, withstandeth the ordinance of God: and they that withstand shall receive to themselves judgment. 3 For rulers are not a terror to the good work, but to the evil. And wouldest thou have no fear of the power? Do that which is good, and thou shall have praise from the same: 4 for he is a 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 a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore (ye) must needs be in subjection, not only because of the wrath, but also for conscience' sake. 6 for this cause ye pay tribute also; for they are ministers of God's service, attending continually upon this very thing.“ ASV

One can see from this reading in Romans, God is to be honored by the righteous action of good leaders and good government. Whenever governments fail to give God glory and recognize their place in the earth, that government is headed toward oblivion. If one simply heeds the facts of History one will see that God may use a government for His purposes but and when that government fails to acknowledge HIM or makes its citizens fear, that government is indeed headed to destruction.

Daniel 5:25-31, ”25 and this is the writing that was inscribed: MENE, MENE, TEKEL,

UPHARSIN. 26 This is the interpretation of the thing: MENE; God hath numbered thy kingdom, and brought it to an end; 27 TEKEL; thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting. 28 PERES; thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians. 29 Then commanded Belshazzar, and they clothed Daniel with purple, and put a chain of gold about his neck, and made proclamation concerning him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom. 30 In that night Belshazzar the Chaldean King was slain. 31 And Darius the Mede received the kingdom, being about threescore and two years old.“ ASV

The governmental authorities of city, county, state, and federal government ought to read the Bible so that they will know what God expects of them. Only when men return to listening to God via His Written Word [i.e. the Bible} will they heed the Lord’s will. Perhaps it will be too late for many people because God may decide that He has had enough of man’s rejection and give man over to his own devices as HE did according to Romans 1:18-32; ”Maybe, He already Has!“ --- glclair@aol.com

I recently encountered a family that at one time attended worship services that told me very soon after I arrived in their home to visit, that they no longer were regular in attendance because they had too many problems. I suppose that many Christians that do visitations in the homes of other Christians have heard this same excuse offered for poor attendance or for no attendance at all. Yet, is this a reasonable position for any Christian, faithful or unfaithful to use? Today perhaps more than in the past there are so many things to distract a person from pursuing a consistent course about any subject that many really think that they are unique so far as their problems are concerned, indeed, they think they are the only people in the church having problems to deal with in life. Actually we all suffer physical sicknesses and other medical and dental ill health at times. Yes, and we all have financial difficulties in our lives if we live very long on the earth. Yes, we all have family difficulties especially with children, relatives and in-laws. Yes, we all have problems with aging and the attendant problems of seeing, hearing, and keeping our balance. Indeed, everyone has problems.

There is sufficient teaching in the New Testament to tell everyone that problems exist in all families. It is not unusual for Christian families to experience difficulties of many kinds in their life. The problem is not that some people do not have any problems, everyone does but the families that deals with their problems and overcomes them are those that are the strength of the congregation.

Let us accept the fact that we will have problems in life and determine to solve them as Christians ought. Let us determine to maintain our faithfulness to God regardless of the problems, whether small or great or of whatever nature.

1 Peter 5:6-9, ”6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt

you in due time; 7 casting all your anxiety upon him, because he cares for you. 8 Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour, 9 whom withstand steadfast in your faith, knowing that the same sufferings are accomplished in your brethren who are in the world.“ ASV -- glclair@aol.com

Results of a recent study from Mississippi State University, working with the parents

compared the scores of children exhibiting poor or unhappy behavior and how well

they respected and worked with peers, to parents’ statements on how frequently they

attended worship, talked with their children about religion, and argued about religion in the home. Two main conclusions seemed to stand out.

1) The kids whose parents attended worship services, especially when both parents

parents and teachers as having better self-control, social skills, and approaches

2) When parents argued frequently about religion, the children were more likely to

have problems. Religion seemed to ”hurt“ if faith was a source of conflict or tension

in the family. Researchers credited the good influence of religion for three reasons.

1) Religious networks provide social support to parents, helping to improve their

parenting skills. Also, children who are brought into such networks hear the same

message from other adults that they hear in their own home, thus reaffirming the

2) The types of values that circulate in religious congregations tend to be self-sacrificing and pro-family. This is important to how parents relate to their children

3) Lastly, religious congregations impart sacred meaning and significance to parenting. Of course it doesn’t take a university study for Christians to see the importance of following God’s value system in the home, rather than the world's. Just turn the above three reasons around to see the values that most of the world is teaching today.

1) Abdicate responsibility for parenting to schools, government, and child care officials instead of learning parenting skills oneself.

2) Encourage kids to think that the family revolves around them instead of teaching them service. And,

3) mock family values by encouraging unwed parenting, divorce, materialism, and homosexual agendas.

Ephesians 6:1-4 does not say it all, but it certainly starts the relationship of parenting,

children, and spirituality on the right track for everybody involved. The one who

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.