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.

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

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"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

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

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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