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SALVATION:  EDIFICATION (FELLOWSHIP, ENCOURAGEMENT):  PART A

ONE ANOTHER
1. We are members one of another. (Eph. 4:25; I Cor. 12:12-27; Acts 2:41-47; Acts 4:32-37).
2. Attitudes toward one another.
   * Love one another. (Rom. 12:10; I John 2:4; I Cor. 13:4-8; John 13:34-35; John 15:12-17; Rom. 13:8; I Thes. 3:12; I Thes. 4:9; II Thes. 1:3; I Pet. 1:22; I John 3:11; I John 3:23; I John 4:7-12; II John 5).
   * Be of the same mind one to another. (Rom. 12:5, 16; Phili. 2:1-8).
   * In honour preferring one another. (Rom. 12:10; Phili. 2:3-4; I Pet. 5:5).
3. Actions toward one another.
  * By love, serve one another. (Gal. 5:13; John 13:1-17; I Pet. 4:10).
  * Be kind/do good to one another. (Eph. 4:32; I Thes. 5:15).
  * Honest. (Eph. 4:14, 25; Col. 3:9-10; James 5:9).
  * Have fellowship with one another. (I John 1:7; Eph. 5:1-16; I Cor. 5:1-13; Acts 2:42).
  * Be at peace with one another. (Mark 9:50).
  * Speak to one another in songs. (Eph. 5:19).
  * Receive ye/accept one another. (Rom. 14:1; Rom. 15:7).
  * Submit yourselves one to another. (Eph. 5:21; I Pet. 5:5).
  * Use hospitality toward one another without grudging. (I Pet. 4:9).
  * Have the same care for one another. (I Cor. 12:25; James 2:1-9).
  * Bear one another's burdens. (Gal. 6:2-5; Rom. 15:1; I Thes. 5:11-14; Eph. 4:2; Heb. 3:12-13).
  * Forbearing one another. (Eph. 4:2; Col. 3:13).
  * Forgiving one another. (Eph. 4:32; Col. 3:13; Matt. 18:21-35).
  * Wait for one another. (I Cor. 11:17-34).
  * Be affectionate/devoted toward one another. (Rom. 12:10).
  * Be impartial toward one another. (Rom. 12:16; James 2:1-13).
4. Spiritual development of one another.
  * Edify one another. (I Thes. 5:11; Rom. 14:19; Eph. 4:29).
  * Teach one another. (Col. 3:16; II Tim. 2:24; Eph. 5:19).
  * Admonish one another. (Col. 3:16; I Cor. 10:1-15; Rom. 15:14; II Thes. 3:14-15).
  * Exhort one another. (Heb. 3:1-19; Heb. 10:24-25).
  * Encourage one another. (I Thes. 5:11).
  * Consider one another to provoke unto love and good works. (Rom. 1:12; Heb. 10:24-25).
  * Comfort one another with these words. (I Thes. 4:13-18; I Thes. 5:6-11; I Cor. 1:3-7).
  * Confess faults one to another. (James 5:16).
  * Pray for one another. (James 5:16).
5. Salute or greet one another with a holy kiss. (Rom. 16:16; I Cor. 16:20; II Cor. 13:12; I Pet. 5:14).
6. Some Don't's
  * Provoke one another. (Gal. 5:26).
  * Envy one another. (Gal. 5:26).
  * Lie to one another. (Col. 3:9; Eph. 4:25).
  * Bite and devour one another...and be consumed one of another. (Gal. 5:13-26).
  * Speak not evil one of another. (James 4:11; I Pet. 2:1; Eph. 4:29).
  * Grudge/complain not one against another. (James 5:9).
  * Judge one another. (Rom. 14:13; James 4:11-12; Matt. 7:1-5).
  * Go to law with one another. (I Cor. 6:1-8).
  * Defraud one another. (I Cor. 7:5; I Thes. 4:3-6; Heb. 13:4).

"Thank You..."
...for sharing with me your time. Often, we blindly allow our lives to become so busy and our minds so occupied with clutter, that we get out of touch with ourselves. Therefore, when you offer me your time, you are in effect giving me time for myself.
... for sharing your innermost concerns and anxieties with me. In this way I can feel confident that I am not alone in my fears, and realizing this provides me with immeasurable comfort.
... for letting me see inside you. This serves me as a mirror because by seeing you as you really are, I can better see and come to a clearer understanding of myself.
... for admitting your failures, thereby allowing me the freedom of sometimes falling short. In a time when so much emphasis is placed on success, I need to know that my defeats do not make me a failure.
. . . for your silence when you know that no matter what you say it won't be right from my sometimes stilted point of view. I know that occasionally in your silence you are being totally honest with me.
. . . for unconditionally accepting me as I am. I am aware that my words and actions are at times a disappointment to you. However, I feel assured that I will never have to face your rejection because of my imperfect character.
. . . most of all for being the person that God made you. In a world of so much pretense and deceit, I am encouraged by, and grateful to those special people who feel free to be absolutely real and undisguised.
To all of the people who have touched my life and made mine a part of yours and yours a part of mine. Thank You.
[by Penny Roling from Christian Woman in the 1970s]

BE "SOMEONE"
What a relief and joy to see this sister return to the fold. She wandered away so gradually many never took her absence seriously. I prayed for her, now I could rejoice with her. We embraced each other and I told her of my concern for her spiritual state. I was feeling very happy and proud - then I heard her plead, "I wish someone would have come to me. I have felt so alone. I needed contact with fellow Christians." That proud feeling was quickly swept away. I realized I too had failed a sister I dearly loved, by not personally encouraging her. Prayer is a very powerful and necessary tool, but it can not replace personal contact.
Not only do we as Christians neglect to encourage the lost but we fail to consistently encourage each other. We fail to praise one another for a job well done for fear it might appear we are "blowing one another's horn." However, honest praise or encouragement for Christians is an aid in avoiding weakness. Confidence is built largely through the encouragement of those around you.
God does not condemn this activity. Paul gives special recognition to about 28 Christians at Rome by name (Rom. 16:1-16). He also called attention to five more in I Cor. 16:15-20. (I Cor. 16:18; Acts 9:36). God gave us a wonderful example of showing loving appreciation for others. John 12:2-8 gives the account of Mary's sacrificial show of appreciation for Jesus, by annointing Him with an expensive and precious ointment. Jesus was so touched by this show of love that He said...(Matt. 26:13).
Let us consider those who would need "someone." The spiritually, as well as physically, weak rely on those who are stronger. New mothers seek strength, guidance, and understanding as well. Military wives who have the added burden and extra responsibilities placed on them during separations need encouragement. A widow's only contact with the outside world may be a phone call from a concerned sister. Single Christians have difficulty at feeling accepted by fellow Christians who are married. Equally, teenage Christians must know they too have a place in Christ's Kingdom. Pressure may never be any greater upon them as during these early years as a Christian. There are so many who are in need of our talent to be that "someone" who can make a personal effort to contact them. By seasoning our Christians lives with encouragement and appreciation, we gain the strength to go on and do more. One preacher's wife said a hearty "amen" could spur her husband to preach 10 minutes longer. Mentioning a Bible Class teachers work of a decorated bulletin board can give her the incentive to do it again when the need arises.
Let's begin now to express our feelings of appreciation and encouragement. Personal contact can never be replaced. Won't you be that "someone"?
[by Nancy Young from Christian Woman p. 4-5 in the 1970s]

If you sometimes get discouraged, consider this fellow: He dropped out of grade school. Ran a country store. Went broke. Took 15 years to pay off his bills. Took a wife. Unhappy marriage. Ran for House. Lost twice. Ran for Senate. Lost twice. Delivered speech that became a classic. Audience indifferent. Attacked daily by the press and despised by half the country. Despite all this, imagine how many people all over the world have been inspired by this awkward, rumpled, brooding man who signed his name simply, A. Lincoln.
[by Wayne Kindall from Sycamore Chapel bulletin in June]

FITTING INTO THE FAMILY
A common statement made by Christians who are failing to grow or are falling away is: "I just don't fit in with the people in the congregation".
Among Christians a two-way effort is needed -
a) to please and worship God, and
b) to love and support one another.
You cannot do one without doing the other. (I John 1:9); furthermore...(I John 3:15). Harsh words, but straight-forward as, to what our relationship with others should be.
If a new Christian doesn't seem to fit in with the family of Christ, two reasons may be offered for this:
a) that person is not making the effort - due to shyness or apathy;
b) other Christians are not making the effort and love is lacking.
Individual responsibility
We cannot become a Christian and expect to remain our old self. Remember that in baptism we are born again and it is Christ who now sets the standard of our lives. He commands this -
1) Regard all Christians as our brothers. (Mark 3:35.)
2) Meet regularly with Christians. (Heb. 10:25).
The reason for this is given in the same verse, to "encourage one another". Heb. 10:24 adds: "Stimulate one another to love and good deeds".
By being encouraged, we find it easier and more enjoyable to carry out God's commands and meet with others. All of us like being with people who encourage us, and only Christians can encourage us to be a Christian.
3) Study the Bible and pray with others.
In Acts we are told that the Bereans...(Acts 17:11). We must do the same. Meeting with other Christians can help us to learn and lead to discussions which aid us in our understanding of God's Word. Prayer groups help us to become close to people. We can appreciate that, no matter how long a person has been a Christian, they are still trying to "excell more" (I Thes. 4:10). We can also appreciate that there is no better bond between men than God's love.
4) Encourage others ourselves.
Encouraging each other is a fast way to make friends. Remember to encourage the speaker, or thank someone who has helped you.
Involvement in the church in any way is noticed by people and is encouraging to them. (Matt. 5:16).
[from The Truth In Love p. 3-4]

Church sign: Come in and have your faith lifted.

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY
(Gal. 6:10).
How to Bring Cheer
Just how do we bring cheer to one another? Is it possible for all of us to do it? Yes, indeed it is; and there are many ways in which it can be done. The little child brings cheer from its infancy. Its presence, its smile, and its sweet little ways of noticing those who love and care for it brings cheer each day. By and by it begins to play and as time goes on, it is more of a joy and would be sorely missed if not present. On reaching the age of accountability, the child who has been well trained learns to do much toward bringing cheer.
The first thing is to bring cheer into the home and keep it there; for that opportunity comes to us each day. To my mind some suggestions for cheerfulness are these: be kind and considerable of others, always preferring some other person rather than ourselves. Praising others at all times instead of ourselves, possessing the spirit of unselfishness, not wanting our own way and gladly giving up to others, not becoming angry or hurt because something does not work out as we think it should; (Rom. 8:28). We should try always to see the brighter side of life, looking for something to be glad for. We should be ready at all times to speak words of comfort, do deeds of kindness, lightening burdens in whatever way that we can. Whatever we door give should be done whole heartedly, for God loveth a cheerful giver. Cheerfulness should not only be practiced at home, but should be carried with us wherever we go, and if practiced at home it is easy to let our light shine that men may see our good works and glorify our father which is in heaven. In mingling with our friends, we can make our presence a blessing. We can cheer the sick, and those who have lost hope and are discouraged, by being full of understanding and sympathy, listening to those who would want to confide in us.
Cultivating a cheerful disposition causes one to be helpful without being conscious of it. We can all do something and it does not have to be something big, for its the little things that count and the willingness of heart with which they are done. A pleasant smile, or a word of comfort goes a long ways. Letting a friend know that some one cares does much toward lifting the burden. We should be peace makers and be at peace ourselves; for Rom. l2:18 says....
We should pray earnestly, not only for ourselves, but for each other; encouraging those around us to do likewise. We learn how to bring cheer from the study of God's word; let us pass it on by trying to be more faithful each day. I humbly pray to bring cheer and to have an influence for good wherever I am, and to be found always doing that which is pleasing to God.
[by Lourie Stafford from Christian Woman p. 12-13]

AUGUST IS "I'D-LIKE-TO-GET-TO-KNOW-YOU MONTH"
I'm having a problem. (What's new, you ask?) It may even be a problem you sense as well. Perhaps we can work together to solve it for all of us.
There are too many people at Ashwood I'd like to know better but just don't have time or opportunity to talk with, have into my home, or drop by to visit them.
So I am taking it on myself to make a unilateral declaration about the month of August. And I ask you to join with me in it. Let's use the entire month to make a wider range of personal acquaintances within the congregation.
August is henceforth to be known officially as "I'd-like-to-get-to-know-you month" at Ashwood. Here are the rules for participation:
1. Invite at least two individuals/couples/families into your home sometime during the month. (Going out to lunch or dinner counts, too, but is a second-best approach.)
2. The people you invite cannot be those you would normally be having over or likely to have contact with otherwise. (Our purpose is not to reaffirm old friendships but to form new ones.)
3. Conversation and shared concerns about spiritual things are to be the focus. (A meal is fine, but why not just have dessert, popcorn, or a deli tray? It allows you to spend more time together talking than in eating and/or cleaning up from the meal.)
4. You are to initiate the process with someone rather than wait for someone to call or contact you.
Now that you know the rules of the game, what are you waiting for? Set something up Sunday for this week!
[by Rubel Shelly from Ashwood Leaves]

FELLOWSHIP
One of the greatest joys of being a Christian is the fellowship which can be enjoyed with other Christians.
When we think of "fellowship" we think of words like: communion; sharing in common; a partner or partakers, communication, to have in common, belonging equally to several and when we consider the actions of the first century Christians who "continued with one mind in the temple and breaking bread from house to houses, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart" (Acts 2:38) we, may begin to realise the implications of the meaning of fellowship.
There have been many lessons taught, many sermons preached and many articles written about this important subject, and rightly so, because fellowship is the one thing which can and does keep Christians together and growing. I don't propose to write a lengthy article or go into the subject any deeper at this particular time, except to remind each, one of us of the importance of having fellowship whether it is enjoying a worship service together or enjoying each others company on a social basis.
It is this latter part of fellowship about which I want to share a few thoughts with you. There are many reasons for using such a time of "getting together".
* To get to know each other.
* To learn how we may be able to help each other. A problem or burden shared.
* To say "good-bye" to some who are leaving.
* To welcome some one home.
* To communicate ideas.
* To share special events coming up.
* To encourage new Christians.
* To take time to talk which quite often we do not have at regular services.
It has been suggested that we use the time after service on Sunday evening for a time of fellowship and supper on a regular monthly basis, some at the building and some at the homes of members who are willing to "open their homes" for this purpose.
We would like to come to your home for a time of fellowship and singing.
[by Keith Wagner from Macquarie Messenger vol. 15, no. 11, May 30, 1982, p. 1-2]

THE CHURCH OF CHRIST
THE CHURCH - A FELLOWSHIP FOR EDIFICATION
In the New Testament the word "edification" is translated from the Greek noun "oikodome" which means literally to build a home. This expression and its meaning seem most apt in relation to the spiritual house of God, the church (I Tim. 3:15; I Pet. 2:5). Thus we see that every Christian is a part of "the edifice" in an active way. (Rom. 14:19; Rom. 15:2). What a wonderful estimate God has of his saints that he extends to them the great privilege to build each other up, to edify each other into...(I Cor. 3:9).
The work of edification is an essential prerequisite to the other works of the church which include evangelism and service. Telling the message of salvation and ministering to the needs of brethren cannot be effectively performed by the fellowship without the strong spiritual growth which edification promotes.
Questions
1. Read Rom. 15:1-7.
  a) What are all Christians expected to do? (Rom. 14:19).
  b) How is "mutual edification" within the fellowship fostered? (Rom. 15:2).
  c) Who has the greater responsibility to practise this? (Rom. 15:1).
  d) Who is our great example in such conduct? (Rom. 15:3).
  e) In working to promote "mutual edification", what help may we pray for? (Rom. 15:5).
  f) What will "a spirit of unity" within the fellowship enable it to do? (Rom. 15:6).
  g)What attitude will enable Christians to achieve mutual edification and unity? (Rom. 15:7).
  h) Notice that the Holy Spirit's advice through the apostle Paul refers us constantly to Jesus. (Rom. 15:3-7).
  i) In what three ways does mutual edification benefit the fellowship? (Rom. 15:14).
2. Read Eph. 4:1-16.
  a) What do the apostles, prophets, evangelists, and pastors and teachers prepare God's people for? (Eph. 4:11-12).
  b) Since the apostles and prophets are not with us in person today, how do they still prepare us? (II Tim. 3:16-17).
  c) What is the purpose of their preparation and our practice? (Eph. 4:12).
  d) What is the aim of being "built up" ("edified")? (Eph. 4:13).
  e) What other important effects accompany such edification? (Eph. 4:14).
  f) What will Christians in such a fellowship be fitted to do? (Eph. 4:15).
  g) Notice that we must speak the truth and we must speak in love. Not one without the other.
  h) Write down some things to be drawn from Eph. 4:16 relevant to this lesson.
3. Read I Cor. 14:1-40.
  a) First, note that the word "edification" (Greek - "oikodome) appears in verses 3, 4, 5, 12, 17 and 26. Leaving aside the special gifts of the Spirit present in the church at Corinth to which the apostle Paul addressed this letter, observe the general principles relating to the edification of church members described in this chapter -
  b) What is the purpose of prophesying or telling God's word intelligibly in the church? (I Cor. 14:3-4).
  c) What must be the aim of all that is done when we come together as a church? (I Cor. 14:26).
  d) To achieve this what must govern everything done in the meetings of the church? (I Cor. 14:40).
4. Miscellaneous scriptures
  a) What essential motive underlies the practice of edification? (I Cor. 8:1).
  b) What important lesson should preachers draw from the apostle Paul's example? (II Cor. 10:8; II Cor. 12:19; II Cor. 13:10).
  c) Christians are to be alert and self-controlled (I Thes. 5:4-10) because Christ will return unannounced. What, then, is our responsibility to one another? (I Thes. 5:11).
  d) What should Christians consider before doing anything? (I Cor. 10:23-24). (Note the illustration and principles which follow in I Cor. 10:25-11:1).
(Eph. 4:29-32).
[from The Truth In Love, p. 2-3, 12-13]

FELLOWSHIP AS A DISCIPLINE
How many times have we thought, "I really should have that new Christian couple into my home, but my carpet needs cleaning, or my apartment is so small and cramped, or maybe they've already had turkey sandwiches several times this past week."
Excuses. Excuses. Excuses. It seems there is always an excuse when it comes to extending hospitality.
The excuses we so easily utter may become a barrier causing us to fail to extend hospitality to newcomers. Consequently, congregational cliques may develop, and new Christians may leave because they are unable to break into the circle of Christian fellowship.
Hospitality, literally "love of strangers," is God's plan for preventing cliques and for continuing the growth of the Christian family. The Bible concept of hospitality gives us a practical view of two of God's characteristics - his unconditional love and his glorious grace.
Hospitality Is a Duty
Hospitality is a Christian obligation. Providing hospitality is a specific requirement for an elder (I Tim. 3:2; Titus 1:8) and a prerequisite for widows seeking support from the church (I Tim. 5:10).
Early itinerant evangelists depended upon hospitality for their livelihood. Paul assumed Philemon would prepare a room for him when he was released from prison.
First century persecutions caused the scattering of Christians. Many were deprived of physical necessities and rejected by their families and old friends. They needed food, lodging and the warm fellowship of their new family. Paul wrote concerning this practical aspect of brotherly love.
(Rom. 12:13).
Today new Christians have needs identical to those of the first century. Not all of them are starving or in need of shelter, but all have a spiritual craving. They long to know their new family in Christ and be partakers in one of the practical aspects of brotherly love, hospitality.
These new Christians, strangers to us, may be from another ethnic group or may act, dress, talk, and even smell different. We may hesitate to invite new Christians into our home because they lack "essential" social graces.
As their new family in Christ we must focus on God's forgiveness of sins and our sameness in Christ rather than on inconsequential differences. Thankfully, our Savior did not wait till we were completely acceptable before he took hospitality to the limit by giving his life to redeem us, his honored guests.
Hospitality as an Attitude
The New Testament gives another essential ingredient of Christian hospitality:
Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. . . . If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
In other translations the word "grumbling" is rendered ungrudgingly" These terms imply that the demands of hospitality may be frequent and heavy. The temptation to complain is only natural. But we can unselfishly and enthusiastically provide for the needs of others because we have received strength from the Lord.
For example, foreign missionaries receive many Christians from the States into their homes. Six or more young campaigners may invade a home for two weeks. They require food, lodging, and attention because of minor emergencies, homesickness, and cultural shock.
The Christian who ministers with practical acts of kindness reflects the grace of our God, a grace freely given. To render such unselfish service with this unusual attitude gives glory to Jesus Christ. This is the goal of Christian hospitality.
Slick publications would have us believe that a sparkling, expansive home, expensive furniture, and a gourmet meal are essentials for entertaining. But, "entertaining" and Christian hospitality are not necessarily synonymous.
Christian hospitality is based upon sharing with others what the Lord has so graciously shared with us. In his book entitled Genesis, Morgenstern gives an excellent definition of Christian hospitality:
True hospitality consists not merely in giving food and lodging to friends but in opening heart and hand to all, not asking who they are, in sharing what we have, what God has given us, with all who need, in truly loving our neighbor as ourselves.
[by Sheila Bost from 20th Century Christian p. 26-27]

FORMULA FOR FRUITFUL FELLOWSHIP
The Example of the Jerusalem Church
1. An active fellowship - getting things done. (Acts 2:42)
2. An active evangelism - getting out to people. (Acts 5:42)
3. An active encouragement - getting everybody involved. (Acts 6:2-6)
4. An active programme - getting to share with each other. (Acts 4:32)
5. An active indoctrination - getting God's word well known. (Acts 4:29; Acts 5:20; Acts 8:4).
6. An active commitment - getting closer to Jesus. (Acts 4:13).
7. An active determination - getting stronger on gospel principles. (Acts 11:23).
8. An active leadership and missionary work - getting focussed on Jesus. (Acts 8:5, 12).
The Example For Today's Churches To Follow
The instructions of our Lord and his expectations for his church in every place have not changed. What the Jerusalem church was able to do in the early years of the New Testament era is what every church can do today.
Let us encourage each other to do more to bring Jesus' gospel of love and salvation to the world around us. If we are not doing it, remember that no one else has been delegated to do it.
[from The Truth In Love no. 18, May 15, 1983, p. 1-2]

YOUTH LOOKS TO THE 21ST CENTURY
Not one of us is able to look deeply enough into the future to predict the marvelous and frightening things that will happen within the next few years, and certainly we can only hope to make an educated guess as to what the 21st Century will hold for mankind.
There may even be those who question the wisdom of considering another century when we have so much work to accomplish today, or when we do not even know if the Lord will permit our universe to exist that long. To them I would simply say that our problem has never been too much vision; rather God's people have forgotten again and again that they continue to perish for their lack of vision. It seems high time that we paid some attention to Peter's repetition of an Old Testament prophecy which be used on the day of Pentecost. "And your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams . . . . "
Who can say if our current "preacher shortage" is not in large part the result of our stubborn refusal to make the Lord's work challenging and glorious enough so that young men who are ready to see "visions" of the future growth and development of the body of Christ will not be ashamed to voice their enthusiasm.
No one knows what the next thirty or forty years will bring, but there is every indication that the changes will be so vast, so impressive, and so challenging to Christians everywhere that no worn cliches will supply the answer to man's problems. A deep knowledge of God's Word, a consecrated willingness to study, an urgent desire to reach the millions whom we have never yet considered to be within the realm of our responsibility, a better education than has ever been required, and a multitude of other concepts must be carefully considered. Otherwise, we may see Christianity turn into a voo-doo-like superstition, and our preachers into a kind of medicine men whose incantations can bring nothing but disgust from a world which needs to understand it sinfulness and learn of the salvation which lies in Christ. Preachers of that message in the 21st Century must be people who believe in the everlasting truth of God while not refusing to recognize a challenging new world which brings changes every day.
There is another side to this question, however. It used to be true that "someone else" had a "preacher problem," but with the unprecedented growth (at least since the days of the Apostles) of the church of our Lord, we now face this difficulty. What can be done to encourage young men to follow in the footsteps of earlier generations of dedicated men of God? What can we do to challenge them to give their lives and the best of their ability to the cause of Christ? I believe that one thing we can do is to recognize them. If we insist on lauding only those who have made their "mark" among us, if we forget the struggles of those who find themselves serving God under much more difficult circumstances than those who have a relatively "safe" and "easy" position, we may lose even more potential preachers.
This special issue is dedicated, therefore, to the young men who are now preparing to preach the message of salvation (and the young women who will eventually be their wives, or who already faithfully stand by their sides in this work). By reason of age they will probably live into that challenging new century, and thus be 21st Century Christians. What kind of men are they? What are their "visions"? What are their hopes and aspirations? Read what they have to say, and be encouraged by their faith and dedication. Perhaps you will find the desire in your heart to pray that your son will become a minister of the gospel, that your daughter will marry a man who is dedicated to God's service. Or perhaps, you will find it in your heart to encourage someone now preparing to preach. Perhaps you will give of your means, your experience, your love to help someone who admittedly may not yet be as far along the road of Christian maturity as you are, but who may face a more difficult challenge in the 21st Century than you and I ever dreamed.
[by Fred L. Casmir from 20th Century Christian, June, 1968, p. 2-3]

THE L.I.F.T. PROGRAMME
(James 4:10).
Christians can improve their lives by giving prayerful daily attention to the word of God and by daily carrying out his directions. Jesus said...(Matt. 6:31-34).
The letters of Jesus' apostles, from Romans to Revelation, are full of practical instructions on how to improve your living for today. These are Jesus' directions on LIFE IMPROVEMENT FOR TODAY. No matter what your problem or situation may be, you can follow Jesus' programme and improve your life for today. When tomorrow comes that will be another today to practise Jesus' L.I.F.T. programme. But concentrate, for the present, on today. Christians should...(Heb. 3:12-14).
[from The Truth In Love, p. 2]

THE COMFORTER
Could I but balm your sorrow,
Could I but numb the pain,
Could I but wipe the tears
And press your hand again.

Could I but soothe the brow
Blind agony has touched,
I'd light the spark of hope;
I long to, oh, so much!

Could I but lift your burden,
Spare a moment's grief,
Could I but solace and console,
Give one heartbeat of relief.

Could I but cheer you onward,
Back into life's flow,
Could I but life you from grief's pit
My heart would warmly glow.

Could I but shade your heart
From life's harshest fact,
Could I but moderate your hurt,
Then I would swiftly act.

But no! I cannot comfort
And I cannot console.
The Holy Spirit breathes a word
Into a grief-racked soul.

His Power, everlasting!
His Power, close as air!
His Presence quietly intrudes,
He goes where I don't dare.

Deep into the inner man
(May footsteps hesitate),
Then "Agape's Banner" gently waves
Upon your soul's estate.
[by Ann Engle]

DOES IT MATTER WHERE I SIT?
Does it really matter where I sit at worship or is attendance all that is necessary? As we try to improve our worship service to God, let us also seek to improve our edification of one another. How often on Sunday do you notice those in attendance seated scattered throughout the auditorium, especially on Sunday nights? Is this healthy for our spiritual growth? The times we come together for worship can be the most rewarding parts of our week. Yet if we sit in our own solitary pews, have we accomplished much?
In John 17, Jesus is pouring out his heart to God. In doing so, he prays for each of us (John 17:20). In his appeal to the Father, he asks for us to be united, as he and the Father are one. Christ saw the need for unity among the believers. In I Cor. 12, Paul explains that we are many members but one body and he uses the example of the human body to illustrate his point. We need to develop this attitude of unity so stressed by the New Testament. One of the strongest ways to develop this attitude is by worshipping God as one body, sitting together, unified. We are continually admonished to love one another in the scriptures. (John 13:34-35; I John 4:7.) The only way to develop love is through close and continued association. As we sit near each other, a closer kinship will result. As an example, let's assume that most families eat their meals together around a table, and usually not scattered through the house. Perhaps one member, while eating in another room, says, "I'm in the same house, why should I be at the table?" We can clearly see that the family is not in unity while eating. If they do not eat together, there can not be the sharing, communicating, or enjoying of each other as when all are one. In like manner, one member may say that "I'm in the same auditorium," but if not together as a group are we really unified? How do visitors see us as we sit throughout the auditorium? Does it not show love to one another, and to those visiting if we sit as one family? The Corinthian church was rebuked because they had divisions and factions among them. Whereas we may not be as divided as they were, even the appearance of such divisions may hurt.
What could be gained by sitting together? A unified spirit would grow because of the close association. We would then get to know each other better, thus enabling us to meet each other's needs more effectively. Because of this, our love for one another would flourish as would our love for God. The worship service would improve because we would sing as one and rejoice together. Visitors would be attracted by the close knit family of believers they see in us. Hence, God's Word would spread into the community and many souls would be reached. All this from sitting together? Not overnight, but in the long run the results would be overwhelming. So then, what have we to gain from sitting together? Everything. What to lose? Nothing, but perhaps spiritual growth if we continue at our present rate.
We can notice that the early church met in homes. (Acts 2:46; Col. 4:14.) This surely was cause for close association. Let's not let our large auditoriums take away the close fellowship that is to exist between us. We ask again, does it matter where I sit? Friend, if I come to worship I may need a smile, a joyful song or an encouraging word. If we sit pews apart, I may leave with the same need. Yes, it does matter where I sit. Forasmuch as we are all members of the one body, we cannot survive apart, but must impart strength to each other, through the love of Christ, at every opportunity. (Rom. 12:4-5.)
[by Allen Thomas, Jr. from Gospel Advocate, August 19, 1982, p. 492]

OH, TO BE A BARNABAS
I know a brother in the States who always has a smile on his face and a loving tone in his voice. But what really stands out about this man to me is that he is never short of giving encouragement to the brethren whom he leads as a shepherd. Whenever I have been around him he always finds a way to encourage me.
When I took at the scriptures I find that one cannot overtook passages that say "encourage one another" (Heb. 10:25; I Thes. 5:11). We see Paul in Acts 14:22 encouraging the disciples to continue in the faith.
The word "encourage" in a noun form is PARAKLESIS which denotes "a calling to one's aid" or "to call to a person, to the side. PARA "by the side" and KALEO "to call". We all need to be called at times to the side of a brother or sister either for encouragement, or maybe for them to rebuke our conduct or behaviour as a Christian. Several other adjectives are the words beseech, exhort, comfort, consolation.
We all need encouraging as we walk for Christ. We all have to live in a world that looks only to one's self and how much "I" can gain, instead of helping others gain. Giving encouragement will involve effort, it will mean we will have to give a little of our time. It will mean that we may have to be a good listener to see the needs of your brethren around you.
A person who encourages will try to build people up rather than belittle people or tear people down. It is easy to be destructive but takes effort to be constructive.
Here are several ways we can be an encourager.
1. We can send some flowers with a note of encouragement.
2. We can help a brother or sister who is sick by perhaps providing them with a meal or cleaning their house for them.
3. We can write a note of encouragement to a brother or sister.
4. We can express some words of encouragement when we have seen a brother or sister use their talents.
5. We can tell a brother or sister that we are praying for them.
6. We can call a brother or sister on the phone.
7. We can go and visit a brother or sister.
8. We can have a brother or sister around for a meal or a cup of tea.
I could go on with the list but I'm sure you will think of others. Try putting one of these into effect this week. You might find that not only others will benefit from it, but you will benefit from it the most.
Let's face it, we all need cheering on to the finish. It is like the fireman that was carrying a woman down the ladder in a blanket. But the flames started to surround him and he got afraid that they both would lose their life. The chief saw this and told all his men to cheer the fireman on. Of course, with the cheering on his courage came back and the man brought the woman safely through it.
Let's cheer each other on to the finish, least the deceitfulness of sin overtakes us (Heb. 3:13).
[by Chris Miller from Otumoetai Church of Christ bulletin, April 1985, p. 1]

THE FELLOWSHIP OF CHRIST
(I Cor. 1:9).
Congregational (Matt. 18:20; Heb. 10:25; Acts 2:42).
* Lord's Supper (I Cor. 10:16; Matt. 26:29; I Cor. 11:20, 33).
* Prayers (Eph. 2:18; I Cor. 14:12-17).
* Singing (Heb. 2:12; Col. 3:16).
* Giving (II Cor. 9:13; I Cor. 16:1-2).
* Sharing (II Cor. 1:7; II Cor. 8:4; Heb. 13:16).
* Teaching (Acts 2:42; Col. 4:16; Acts 20:7).
(I John 1:3).
[from The Truth In Love, p. 10]

HOW WELL DO WE JUDGE OURSELVES?
Do we as Christians "show love" or "talk love"? Do we really care? Or, are we just playing the part? When one of our brethren hurt, do we really feel the pain with them? When they are happy do we feel that joy? Are we concerned enough to find out what trials and tribulations our brethren are going through and pray for each individual? Or, are we too concerned about ourselves and our own families? Do we know each other well enough to know the different personalities. Maybe we have members that are too shy to come to us, do we realize this, go to them, and help them feel at ease? Do we care enough when someone is sick to do something about it, not sitting back thinking "oh well, Sue will take them dinner, or Mary will help with the children."
Do we visit each and every person of the congregation, or do we have our favorite few and forget the rest? Have we thought maybe some of these "left out people" may feel very unloved and leave because of our neglect?
Do we feel completely comfortable in our brethren's homes or, are we made to feel as though we had no business interrupting their schedule?
Do we get all upset when a small child makes a disturbance in worship, or Bible class and interrupts our prayer or thoughts or, do we encourage that mother? Do we visit the elderly, show them our love in any way possible or, do we leave that to someone else also?
Do we encourage those who have a non-believing mate and let them know we are praying for them? When a brother does something that hurts us do we try to hurt back, or do we pray for that person?
Do we take time to say a kind and encouraging word to our preacher, song leaders, and teachers? Do we visit the backsliders, and the non-Christians? Do we teach Gods word where ever and when ever we can?
Do we care, really care, for each and every Christian brother and sister or, just the group we're involved with?
Did Christ "show his love" on the cross at Calvary or did he just "talk love"?
If only we could be as He,
What a loving place this would be,
So, show your love and you will see
What a better person you will be.
But, talk love and you will see
The gates of heaven will not be
The resting place for you or me.
[from Christian Woman p. 26-27]

WHAT A FELLOWSHIP!
Do you like problems that already have solutions? Read Eph. 2! The problem is: "You were dead in your trespasses and sins..." (Eph. 2:1). Then the solution is: "But God ... made us alive together with Christ..." (Eph. 2:4-5).
Through books and motion pictures like Rosemary's Baby and The Exorcist thousands of people have seen a fictionalized account of the devil-possessed. But the issue of demon-possession is only a "smoke screen" for the real thing - and all who are not in Christ are involved...(Eph. 2:2). This was a spiritual reality for us, when we were without Christ.
Without Christ we are self-indulgent in body and mind. We are vengeance-seeking and worthy of God's wrath (Eph. 2:3). We have no fellowship with God's people, no agreement with God, no hope and no God.
Do you ever feel like a terrified child, lost or abandoned, not knowing where to go for help, trusting no one. Have you felt the loneliness of being in a strange city where you do not speak the language and where you are despised for the color of your skin or the way you dress? These feelings are akin to the loss of fellowship we feel without Christ. As Jesus cried, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?"
But if we are in Christ, what does this mean to us? Christians sometimes forget what a prison chaplain remembered. As he watched a condemned man being led to the gallows, he exclaimed, "There, but for the grace of God, go I." He knew that we don't need to be murderers to be as deserving of God's wrath as this condemned criminal was of man's punishment. That is why Paul interjected the breathless reminder, "By grace you have been saved" (Eph. 2:5); and again...(Eph. 2:8).
We are saved by grace! We were dead, insensitive to God and to the needs of others, out of touch with ourselves. But God brought us to life (Eph. 2:5) and put us into a relationship with his Son (Eph. 2:6) in order to shower his infinite love and kindness on us (Eph. 2:7). We were separate from God and his people, but in Christ all divisions among men and with God are broken down (Eph. 2:12-16).
This is reality! We are now God's creations, able to serve him (Eph. 2:10). We live in peace and share in the availability of his attention (Eph. 2:17-18). And to fulfill God's purpose, we are formed as a family, or household, and we fit together, as a perfectly designed and growing buildings - "temple in the Lord" and a "dwelling of God in the Spirit" (Eph. 2:19-22).
There is no need to drive ourselves into good works - we are prepared and motivated by God. There is no need to negotiate peace nor to force the doors of heaven - he has already made peace and opened a door of access through the Spirit. Unity is a free gift, a by-product, if we will allow it to prevail. He used all his resources (the fulness of God) to bring us together as the church. We belong to each other. We share the same family name of Christ.
What a fellowship!
[by Steven S. Lemley from Power For Today, p. 1-2]

HELP ONE ANOTHER
Help by teaching God's word. (Acts 18:27)
Help by supporting evangelism. (I Cor. 16:16)
Help by prayer (II Cor. 1:11)
Help by encouraging (Phili. 4:3)
Help by meeting needs. (Acts 20:35; I Thes. 5:14; Eph. 4:28).
[from The Truth In Love, p. 8]

SCRIPTURALLY SPEAKING
Now that Christmas is behind us and the New Year is but a few days away, it might be good for us to make plans for the future. Rather than resolving to lose weight, or save money, or exercise more, etc., let's make some spiritual resolutions which can work toward in 1987 in order to become closer to the Lord.
Is there a person in the congregation who seems to need more attention? Why not determine in your own mind to be a special friend to that person? In doing this, you bring two people closer to the Lord: yourself, and the friend you associate with.
Is there an area of work that you'd like to see improved? Why not encourage the workers who are involved in that area, or better yet, why not get involved in it yourself? You are bound to see at least a little improvement due to your concern in the work.
Is there a need for strong, mature leaders in the church? Why not begin preparation of yourself or of someone else in order that the church can benefit from such preparations? Remember, leaders in the church do not always have to hold the position of elder. Leaders among the young people, leaders among the women, and leaders among people in general help to influence the proper and positive direction of the church even in an informal way. So let's begin now to prepare for the future successes and achievements which the Lord will help us obtain as we follow Him.
[by Tim Binkley from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, 1987]

ENCOURAGE ONE ANOTHER
Early in this century a man named Mallory led an expedition of climbers attempting to conquer Mount Everest. The expedition failed. Mallory tried again with a second group. Again, the expedition ended in failure. Mallory then assembled a third expedition made up of the most experienced and able climbers he could find. But in spite of careful planning, the third expedition ended in disaster when an avalanche killed Mallory and most of the party. Later, when the few survivors returned home to England, they were invited to attend a banquet given as a tribute to both the deceased and surviving members.
When the leader of the survivors was introduced, he arose from his chair, looked around the room at pictures of Mallory and the other dead comrades which had been hung on the wall, he then turned his back to the audience and faced a huge picture of Mount Everest hanging behind the banquet table. Tears ran down his cheeks as he addressed the mountain in behalf of Mallory and the others. He said, "I speak to you, Mount Everest, in the name of al1 brave men 1iving and yet unborn. You defeated us once; you defeated us twice; you defeated us three times; but, Mount Everest, we shall someday defeat you because you can't get any bigger and we can!"
Don't lose heart, my friend, the world can't get any bigger, but we can.
[by Jon Jones from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Nov. 16]

IN MY NAME
(Matt. 18:20).
In this short statement, our Lord makes a great promise, offers a unique fellowship, reveals a loving concern, and assures a constant comfort for all who follow him.
A Great promise
What a wonderful God we have! He is so great and yet he "welcomes a little child" (Matt. 18:3), and searches for the one sheep that "wanders away" (Matt. 18:12). He is "not willing that any of these little ones should be lost" (Matt. 18:14). Our Lord is not too great to be with "two or three" (Matt. 18:20) as readily as with thousands who come together in his name.
A Unique fellowship
There are numerous kinds of human fellowship. But there is only one which is assured of the presence of Jesus Christ. That is when people come together "in my name". Jesus can only fellowship those who recognise and respect his authority, accept him fully and completely, and submit humbly to his whole will. (Matt. 18:5).
A Loving concern
What a truly eternal, ever-present, ever-seeing God we have. He created and sustains this great universe and all the tiny mysteries of life. Yet he is personal too, and so wants to share our frail and fickle company. He is of great compassion and does not "look down on one of these little ones" (Matt. 18:10).
A Constant comfort
As we come together to share in the Lord's Supper, let us remember the constant comfort his presence brings us as we remember his sacrifice for us. This made it possible for us to be forgiven our sins, reconciled to God, and added by him to his church. In this communion, let us praise him for making our salvation possible and let us proclaim this until he comes again.
[from The Truth In Love, p. 6]

SICK AND AILING
Be constantly aware of the needs of brethren who are sick and frail and who require our prayers, contacts, letters, phone calls and visits to encourage and sustain them. If you are aware of someone who feels neglected or requires special attention, please let the elders or deacons know.
While an individual member may not feel concerned about being left alone, and does not feel brethren are neglectful, remember that others may not feel the same way and they are entitled to our special support.
Become familiar with the aims of each of the ministry areas of the church you attend and, especially, to ask ourselves how we may be more directly involved in, one or other of these ministries for the sake of our Lord and for the encouragement of our brethren. It is not true that our Lord expects us to be present only for the "breaking of bread" one hour a week and to think we have fully discharged thereby our commitment to his work and his church. Unless we are disabled we should rearrange our priorities to ensure more involvement with our brethren in Jesus' service.
(Heb. 10:24-25).
[from The Truth In Love, p. 14]

RULES FOR A GOOD ATTITUDE
Reading an article recently reminded me of some crucia1 principles involved in a good attitude.
1. The six most important words in the world: "I admit I made a mistake."
2. Five most important words: "You did a good job!"
3. Four most important words: "What is your opinion?"
4. Three most important words: "If you please."
5. The least important word: "I".
As we look around in our assemblies, be reminded that you are not perfect; therefore, you would not fit into a congregation of perfect people, if such a congregation existed.
Instead of picking out the weak, hypocritical, or worldly members to point a finger toward, pick out the sincere, dedicated, spiritual member. And thank God for him.
When you are criticizing any leader or fellow member, take time to earnestly pray for them. One writer said: "If you are praying about an individual in private, you won't talk about them in public."
If you are old, treat the young with the consideration you desired as a young person. If you are young, treat the old with the respect you will want when you grow old.
Remember that improvements begin with you. Conscientiously look for the good qualities in every brother and sister in Christ. Constantly strive to increase your circle of loved ones in the congregation.
And when problems do occur, and they will come, constantly ask yourself: "Am I part of the problem or the solution?"
And don't, please, just be a spectator.
[from Savannah Church of Christ bulletin]

AND THEY WERE CONTINUALLY DEVOTING THEMSELVES TO...FELLOWSHIP
Restoring the church of the New Testament involves more than just a technical or doctrinal restoration - we must work just as hard at restoring the close fellowship "sharing together" aspect of the church. This can only be done by Christians getting together, being together at worship and in each others homes during the week. There are also those of our brethren who are not as able as they used to be. Why not try to spend a few minutes with someone you love each week, whether in your home or theirs. The church that Jesus died for should be known for caring (about each other) and sharing (the good news with the lost, and ourselves with each other!).
The gospel is God's power to save, Jesus draws people to Himself, but quite often the gospel is preached to those who have seen in the church of Christ a fellowship and closeness that they would like for themselves! Will you do your part to restore the devotion to fellowship that needs to be a part of the restoration of Christ's church in this place? Plan to start now by having someone in your home each week, or visiting someone each week. You may be surprised at how little you know your brethren, and how much you will receive from fellowship.
[by Mike Austin from Otumoetai church of Christ bulletin, 9 December 1984]

DEVELOP CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIPS
Even though today's world is filled with people rubbing shoulders with one another, many are very lonely. Being in the presence of others does not ensure companionship. Very fortunate indeed is the person who feels that he has several friends .. real friends with whom he can express his true feelings. "A friend is one who walks in, when the rest of the world walks out."
Christ himself knew the value of Christian companionship. Twelve men were selected as His companions for three years. During this time He was teaching and training them to carry on His work, but they also fulfilled one of His needs .. human friendship. Just as we feel closer to some of our friends than others, so did Christ feel closer to three ... Peter, James and John.
The Master knew that the Apostles themselves could do better work themselves if they had companionship; consequently, they were sent out 'two by two! (Mark 6:7).
Friends do not simply fall into our laps. Friendship must be cultivate. Emerson said: "Man surrounds himself with the true image of himself. We reflect the image which we have of ourselves. If we respect ourselves and others... love them .. and accept them, they will react to us in a friendly manner".
Centuries before Emerson lived, the writer of Proverbs said...(Prov. 18:24).
Some Christians find it difficult to identify with other Christians at the 'feeling level! There are many reasons for this. And every Christian who finds it difficult to express emotion towards others, should examine his life carefully, seeking to break the stumbling block that holds him back.
Was it unreasonable for Paul to write; in the context which he exhorted Christians to "be devoted to one another in brotherly love" ... also exhorted that we "rejoice with those that rejoice" and "mourn with those who mourn" (Rom. 12:15). All Christians must 'work' towards a better understanding of their fellow Christians.
Whatever step you want to take to improve your 'friendship'... begin to act immediately on what you know to be God's will. For instance if you have difficulty telling a fellow Christian you love him... Act on what you want to do, not on how you feel! Start by sharing with that person...a gift, a note that you appreciate him...an invitation to a meal. 'Express Your Love'.
[from Christchurch church of Christ bulletin]

FRICTION BETWEEN BRETHREN
(I Cor. 13:5A)
There are many reasons why friction may occur between some brethren and these include differences in personality and temperament, differences in spiritual growth, differences in matters of opinion, and differences in understanding of Bible teaching.
Some kinds of friction arise from reasons which are not, in themselves, sinful (Rom. 4:15). Others are demonstrably contrary to God's teaching and, therefore, are sins (I John 3:4).
It requires some spiritual maturity, gained from diligent Bible study (II Tim. 2:15), to have developed "senses trained to discern good and evil" (Heb. 5:14).
For example, when the apostle Paul wrote his first letter to the Christians at Corinth he condemned them for disregarding sin in their midst which they should have removed (I Cor. 5:1ff). They had shown bad judgement.
Magnanimity
There are some unfortunate actions which are better disregarded or overlooked:...(I Cor. 6:1-7; Matt. 5:39; Rom. 12:18).
Thus we see that there are some situations when it is best to be magnanimous and big-hearted - and decline to "stand on one's dignity" or "demand an apology". When other situations are the result of sin, we must follow the Lord's directions in dealing with sin (Matt. 18:15ff) and not choose to overlook it. (Matt. 4:15).
Forgiveness
There are other actions which are sinful [by Bible definition, not personal judgement] and must not be ignored:...(Luke 17:3).
Requires (a) A Readiness to Forgive (Eph. 4:32)
(b) A Readiness to Discuss (Matt. 18:15ff).
(c) A Readiness to Repent (Luke 15:17-18).
Detachment
And there are other situations which prudence determines are best dealt with by withdrawal for the sake of peace. This may be done when differences of opinion cannot be resolved. Rather than becoming bitter, brethren may do better to "shelve their differences" and detach themselves from further discussion.
(Acts 15:37-41).
It is important to note that no sin is implied here, unhappy as the situation was. Barnabas took his kinsman and took the gospel to his native Cyprus. Paul took Silas and went to his native country of Cilicia "strengthening the churches". Years later, Paul referred to Barnabas in commendatory terms (I Cor. 9:6) and Mark redeemed himself in Paul's estimation (II Tim. 4:11).
[from The Truth In Love, p. 10-11]

An item of interest I have run across while working with people... is the relationship factor. Here are some suggestions that might be helpful in expanding our relationships with others:
1. Dispel our expectations of others. This pitfall of putting on others what we expect of them has always hindered instead of being helpful.
2. Strive to improve our superficial relationships by cultivating and enhancing our opportunities for interaction and sharing.
3. Be open to new relationships. Only when we open up and are willing to relate will our perspective improve. Establishing a new relationship is always challenging. Welcome the challenge with excitement.
4. Be Christ-like in attitude. The apostle Paul stated it this way...(Col. 4:5-6).
[by Mike Zuniga from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Nov. 10, p. 2]

UNOBSERVED DROWNINGS
Frank Pia is a consultant on water safety in Larchmont, New York. In an article in TRIAL magazine he points out that many of the 7-8 thousand annual deaths by drowning in the U.S. occur in crowded swimming areas in the presence of one or more lifeguards. He stressed that greater care must be taken in training and surveillance to prevent swimming-related drownings. They occur when those around the person in peril are unaware of what is happening.
Pia points out that the victim cannot wave for help because he lacks the swimming skills to support himself while he waves his arms and since breathing takes precedence over speech in the respiratory system, the drowning person is rarely able to call for help.
Being alert to subtle signs of distress is the key. A 20-60 second struggle before sinking to the bottom often occurs within 10-15 feet of safety and another unnecessary accidental drowning becomes a statistic.
A church bulletin is an unlikely medium for items on water safety but in the aforementioned facts lie a striking similarity to a more relevant situation. In our midst, as in every Christian community, there are those who are very troubled -- literally drowning in problems of their own making and of origins beyond their control. For those not Christians, obedience to Christ is the first step, while others who are Christians still have personal problems that to them defy solution without our help. It is here that we need to develop the subtle ability to discern (like the trained lifeguard) and then care enough to help.
In becoming like the trained lifeguard we can give real meaning to the concept of Christian Care and to the truism that Christians care. Drownings are prevented by one on one viable, working, alert compassion. Far fetched? Not if Christ is our example. In Acts 10:31 we learn that Cornelius' prayer for guidance was answered because God remembered his gifts to the poor and that Peter's message to Cornelius' household included the fact that Jesus "went about doing good". (Acts 10:38).
[by Dallas Wiseman from Ashwood Leaves vol. 9, no. 47, Nov. 27, 1983]

EVALUATER OR AFFIRMER?
Joyce Landorf, in her new book, Balcony People, concludes that there are only two basic types of people in the world --evaluators and affirmers. She says, "I am sure, if there were a way to view a movie and see instant replays of all the strategic change points in our lives, that we'd instantly spot the people who either broke our spirits by their critical or judgmental evaluations, or who healed us by their loving, perceptive affirmations."
In looking back over my life I can indeed remember some of these people very vividly, and I'm sure you can too.
But looking back isn't the challenge. Nor is it identifying the evaluators and affirmers who are influencing our lives at present. The real challenge is identifying which one we are. Are we evaluators or affirmers? Do we look for ways to build people up or to tear them down?
The answer is quite simple. God has never given us the right to be critical evaluators, but he has charged us repeatedly to be edifying affirmers. Paul uses such phrases as, "encourage one another," "love one another," "serve one another," and "bear one another's burdens," to describe the affirming relationships that should exist between brethren.
The world is full of critical evaluators; we don't need any more of them. Our need is for more edifying affirmers. I need them and you need them. But most of all we need to become one for each other.
[by George Miller from Ashwood Leaves vol. 11, no. 4, Jan. 27, 1985]

WHERE THEY TAKE YOU IN
Robert Frost has defined home as "The place where they take you in". This reminds us of warm receptions, greetings, unhindered acceptance, and no hostility. The Lord's body should also share in this definition, it too, is a family. It is the household of God. Christians are brethren in the Lord. There is a tie that binds them, a purpose that unites them, a reception that awaits them.
In all congregations there ought to be no hostility, no suspicion, no thinly disguised animosity. Elbowing out a brother for personal advantage is unthinkable to a Christian. Sharp, cruel, thoughtless remarks are as out of place here as they are at home. Tale bearing, gossip mongering backbiting, is as distasteful to brethren in the Lord as it should be to all others. The Lord's body has its family aspect, we ought to do all we can to promote friendliness, warmth, hospitality, concern, sympathy and care. May each of us so live, so pray, and so work, as to make it true that the church is that respected body, where they "Take you in."
[from The Capital Letter, 7 October 1980s]

DEAD AS A DOORNAIL
Characters:
Mary is a young preacher's wife in a medium-sized Southwestern states town.
Problem:
Mary has been married to a young preacher only a short time. She is just now beginning to see that much of church work is trying to help people improve their lives and to settle their problems. Mary is also learning the weaknesses, ignorance prejudices and failings of human beings in the Lord's church. The young people in the church were being neglected. She was concerned.
Choices available:
1. Mary could forget the problem as not being her responsibility.
2. Mary could reason with the leaders to try to get something started for youth.
3. Mary could start a crusade for youth and do something, even if it's wrong.
4. Mary could begin on a small and private scale to help the young people.
Spiritual implications:
Christ is the answer to all mankind's needs. Young people and adults alike should look to Him for guidance in every phase of their lives. God made young people social and gregarious beings. They need social activities and recreational outlets. By staying, playing and praying with other Christians young Christians can marry and create fine Christian homes. The church can encourage some religious services and activities for youth. The homes can furnish entertainment and social outlets. Christ expects young Christians to be happy and have a wholesome good time.
Bible principles:
(Matt. 6:33; Matt. 5:3-12; I Cor. 15:33; Gal. 5:19-21; Gal. 6:7-8; Phili. 4:8.)
(A student should read each scripture and apply it to this problem situation.)
Counseling session:
Mary loved everybody, and especially young people, who to her were so fine and good. She was saddened that they were neglected and ignored, and thus often driven into the world for social activity. Mary went to the counselor to see what could be done to help channel their youth's zeal, energies and enthusiasm into wholesome activities. It became evident that the student's teachers and parents at church were willing to help provide some kind of program. The draw-back turned out to be some elderly leaders of the church who did not understand the problems of youth today. They thought youth should get together only to study the Bible and worship the Lord.
My first choice: (Select a solution and state why you chose it.)
Number_________Reason___________________________________________________________________________________________
Counsellor's Advice: Q_________, k___________ a________ p___________, a___ a C__________ c__________, h_____________ t__________ y__________ p_______________________ t_______________ w_____________ e__________ y__________ c_________.
Outcome: M_______s_________ d_________ t____________ w__________ a_________ f_________ t________ y__________ p________________. T_________ w____________ h_______ a________ s________ n_________ s____________ w_______ m______________ a________ i_____________, n_______________ o__________ s____________ t___________ c____________.
Answers: Quietly, kindly and privately, as a Christian citizen, help these young people to what ever extent you can.
Outcome: Mary started doing things with and for the young people. They were happier, and since no stir was made about it, no one seemed to care.
[Lesson 8 in Vivid stories about Youth, p. 18-19]

VISITATION
"There is, I believe, a therapeutic value in visitation. When you get out into the real world where the babies are being born and people are dying, and you visit, you are indeed in the real world. I have learned over the years that if we become a little blue and despondent the best antidote is visitation. Why don't you try it sometime? Get up and visit the shut-ins, the hospital patients, the old people.....
"We need to encourage visitation in every department and on every level. We need to visit the newcomers. We need to visit those who are new converts. We need to visit those who are absent from Sunday school. We need to visit those in our own subdivision or street who are members of the church.
"In our day and age there are some obstacles to visiting. Night time visiting is not safe by oneself in certain sections.... And yet visitation still has its power.
"I am convinced that there are at least three rules for a growing Sunday morning Bible school. (1) Visitation, (2) Visitation, (3) Visitation. Let us go back to the old fashioned way of visiting each other."
[by Ira North from Balance]

Perhaps you sent a lovely card,
Or sat quietly in a chair;
Perhaps you sent beautiful flowers,
If so, we saw them there.
Perhaps you sent or spoke kind words
As any friend could say;
Perhaps you were not there at all
Just thought of us that day.
Whatever you did to console the heart,
We thank you so much, whatever the part.
[by Betty Snow]

FAMILY ALIVE
The Need
The church family is feeling estranged. Tension and uncertainty is pulling the body apart. There are calls for concerned efforts to meet the needs of one another. But how?
A programme which has successfully met these needs was outlined.
The Family Alive Programme
A system of communication was needed to ensure all the physical and spiritual needs of each member were made to the whole church so that...(I Cor. 12:26).
Purposes
1. Develop more meaningful, personal relationships between brethren.
2. Encourage and share each other's burdens.
3. Edify the saints so they can reachout.
4. Good, positive family groups for new converts to feel part of.
5. Develop leadership.
6. Needs of the sick or bereaved etc., will be made known immediately, so the body can meet their needs.
7. Members can be aware of where each other lives and will feel more comfortable visiting one another.
8. The Men's Meeting and the church will be able to meet the spiritual needs.
Structure
1. The congregation divides into groups of 10 to 15, mixing well.
2. Group leaders are appointed who are responsible and enthusiastic. They ensure good communication within the group and make sure needs are known. The group leader also organizes the meetings and may do some teaching.
Procedure
1. Groups meet in different homes as desired from weekly to monthly, generally on Sunday night.
2. Get togethers can include Bible Study, sharing needs and blessing, a time of prayer, a meal, singing, planned outtings.
3. Planned purely social events in groups or as a whole church.
Outcome
If we run this programme, it would mean a change to Sunday night. The church could meet for a "Gospel Meeting" once a month, the service conducted by the men. Other Sundays are free for group meetings or individual family outtings or outreach to the lost.
We need to get together. We need to know each other. We need to glorify God by being a strong, loving and caring body.
This programme can work if you want it to.
[from The Acts of Parkers Rd., Sept. 30, 1984, p. 1-2]

VISITING OTHERS
(James 1:27).
Christians are in the happy position of being obliged and privileged by God to be His human visitors to those who are disadvantaged. (I Tim. 6:18; Heb. 13:16).
The opportunities for carrying out this blessed duty are so great that no Christian can be left in doubt where to be involved. (Matt. 25:34-40; I John 3:17).
We can thank God that He has made this one of the major roles for all Christians in their daily lives. We can thank Him that He has left the ways and means frequency of visiting to our discretion, ability, talents and time. We can thank God that He has made the application so general that no matter where we are, any time may be an appropriate occasion for visiting. (II Cor. 9:8; Titus 2:14).
Visiting is not a work to be left to the few, nor to "the preacher", of any congregation. Everyone is meant to be one of God's visitors. (Eph. 2:10; Heb. 10:24).
Don't just visit each other - this tends to foster an "exclusive club" attitude where gossip flourishes. Go into all the world and demonstrate the love of God to others. (Luke 6:32-36; Gal. 6:10).
[from the Truth In Love, p. 5]

LESSON ON FELLOWSHIP
What is our concept of fellowship? It should be far more than cups of tea and chit chat though that has its part. True Christian fellowship means brethren living together in unity, sharing and participation in the work. We should be fellow workers in His service, - there should be no strife between us. If we do not have true fellowship with each other can we have it with God? True fellowship means that 'we are no longer strangers and aliens, but are fellow citizens with the saints and are of God's household.
Now more than ever, true fellowship has its responsibility of sharing in the work of the Church is necessary.
[from Dunedin church of Christ bulletin]

BE POSITIVE!
Jesus brought a positive message of hope for our motivation now and for our anticipation of the future.
To the uncertain, he says...(John 14:6).
To the careless...(Matt. 7:14).
To the doubters...(John 20:27).
To the anxious...(Matt. 6:31-34).
To the remorseful...(John 5:14).
To the casual...(Luke 14:33).
To the indulgent...(Acts 20:35).
Be Positive! Jesus is the only way. Find him and have faith in him, fix your eyes on him, follow him, forget the past, fully commit yourself to him and freely give of yourself in his service.
[from The Truth In Love]

KEEP THE WAY OF THE LORD
(Gen. 18:19).
MIDLIFE CHRISTIANS
(I Tim. 5:1-2).
The quote from the apostle Paul's first letter to Timothy refers to the middle life adult, and advises on the proper attitudes and behaviour to have towards Christians older and younger than one's own self. For the purpose of this lesson, consider how we, as adults in middle life, should regard our fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters. What does the Bible teach us that we may apply to our attitude to others older and younger than ourselves?
(In the Bible the generic use of the words "men" and "brethren" refer and apply to both sexes. The context usually indicates when these words apply only to males. Hence, when the generic sense is evident in any passage of scripture, we may understand that males and females are being addressed.)
Attitude to Fathers and Mothers
Love
Joseph demonstrated his concern, care and deep affection for his aged father, Jacob, by throwing his arms around him and weeping when Jacob arrived in Egypt after so long a separation. (Gen. 46:29). We should have a like concern and care for our older Christian brethren and show affection for them because of their faithfulness and good examples in the Lord.
Obedience
Jacob "obeyed his father and mother" when they advised him where to find a suitable wife. (Gen. 28:7). Esther "continued to follow Mordecai's instructions as she had done when he was bringing her up" (Esth. 2:20). Elders are appointed in a local church to be shepherds of God's flock (I Pet. 5:l-2), and the younger members are to be "submissive to those who are older" (I Pet. 5:5) and to "obey their leaders and submit to their authority" (Heb. 13:17). Such obedience is, of course, to the guidance of older Christians in so far as it is in accord with God's word (cf. Eph. 6:1).
Honour and respect
Christians are required to "honour your father and mother" (Eph.6:1) and to respect their parents who disciplined them in early life. (Heb. 12:9-10). Since Christians are urged to treat older brethren like they should treat their own fathers and mothers (I Tim. 5:1-2), we should honour and respect our older members in the fellowship in Christ.
Appreciation and joy
Just as discerning children will appreciate their mother in time and "arise and call her blessed" (Prov. 31:28) and wise children will "bring joy" to their father's heart (Prov. 27:11), so Christians should appreciate their older brethren and bring gladness to them. An important way of doing so is by being faithful to our Lord and his gospel. Then those older than ourselves may say, with "the elder" who wrote...(III John 4). There is a deep sadness to the aged apostle Paul's regret that his former co-worker in the gospel, Demas, "has deserted me" (II Tim. 4:10). Don't do this to older brethren who have "fought the good fight" for their Lord and their brethren for many years.
Provide for needs
Joseph provided for his father and family (Gen. 45:9-11) and we are called to provide for our own families (I Tim. 5:8). To neglect to do so is to "nullify the word of God" (Matt. 15:3-6). Since Christians are required to treat their older brethren as fathers and mothers, it follows that the same obligation is upon us to provide for such needs as our brethren have.
Attitude to brothers and sisters
Love
Christians are exhorted to "keep on loving each other as brothers" (Heb. 13:1). The ways that God expects brothers to relate to each other merit our earnest consideration. "A brother is born for adversity" (Prov. 17:17) and so we too must stand by and support our younger brethren in adverse situations. The Old Covenant legislated that Israelites must "not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother; rather be openhanded and freely lend him whatever he needs" (Deut. 15:7-8). Brothers must not hate each other, as Cain hated Abel; instead, "we ought to lay down- our lives for our brothers" (I John 3:11-16).
(I John 3:11-16). Reuben urged his unheeding brothers not to sin against Joseph when they sold him into slavery (Gen. 42:22). Judah, years later, showed the same brotherly care for young Benjamin, and concern for his aged father, when he pleaded...(Gen. 44:18-34). Rahab sought an assurance from the Israelites that, when they attacked Jericho, they would...(Josh. 2:13). From such instructions and examples in God's word, we understand how Christians are to...(I Tim. 5:1-2).
Forgiveness
In Jesus' parable of the prodigal son, the older brother was harsh and unforgiving and, in displaying this attitude, he was hurtful to his father (Luke 15:25-32). Jesus taught that "if your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents forgive him" (Luke 17:3). God has assured Christians that, if they confess their sins, he will forgive them (I John 1:9) and we must be careful lest we do not forgive another Christian whom God has freely and fully forgiven! (Gal. 6:1-2).
Spiritual Welfare
Christians must exercise true "brotherly kindness" (II Pet. 1:7) by taking care that they say and do nothing which may cause a brother to be distressed or destroyed. Instead, we are required to...(Rom. 14:13ff; I Cor. 8:12).
[from The Truth in Love, p. 2-3, 12-13]

KEEP THE WAY OF THE LORD
OLD AGE
(Psa. 92:12-15).
Aged Believers
(Lev. 27:1-7). Under the Old Covenant, a scale of values, commensurate with what the person could afford, was laid down for different age groups of those who were to be dedicated to service to the Lord. It is of interest, in the context of this lesson, that "a person sixty years old or more" was considered capable of serving the Lord in Old Testament times. The idea that we should "retire" [unless ill or frail] from Christian service when we are old is not derived from the scriptures! It is recorded of' Moses that he was...(Deut. 34:7). King David...(I Chron. 29:28). The prophetess Anna is described as...(Luke 2:36-37). We should not assume that old people cannot continue to be effective in the service of their Lord and their brethren.
Aged Men
(Titus 2:2).
Temperate
The Greek work from which this is translated appears also in I Tim. 3:2, where the aspirant for eldership must be "...temporate, prudent, respectable..." The word is related to the verb form from in I Thes. 5:6 "...let us be alert and self-controlled...", in II Tim. 4:5 "Be sober in all things" and in I Pet. 4:7 "...be clear-minded and self-controlled..."
Worthy of Respect
In other passages where the Greek word from which this expression is translated we find...(I Tim. 3:4), the elder must keep...(I Tim. 3:4), and we ought to...(Titus 2:7-8)
Self-Controlled
The Greek work from which this is translated occurs in Luke 8:35 concerning the demon-possessed man healed by Jesus and found "sitting down at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind.", in Rom. 12:3 where Christians are urged to "think so as to have sound judgement", and in II Tim. 1:7 where we are reminded that "God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline."
Sound in Faith, in Love and in Endurance
Aged Christians, just like all Christians of whatever age, should be "standing firm in the faith" (I Pet. 5:9), "keeping yourselves in the love of God" (Jude 21) and maintaining "the steadfastness of Christ" (II Thes. 3:5). To be "sound" in faith, in love and in endurance is to be in "good health" (Luke 7:10; III John 2) and to be "safe and sound" (Luke 15:27). There should not be a time in our lives when we might relax our care to maintain good health in faith, love and endurance to the end.
(II Tim. 4:7).
Aged Women
(I Tim. 5:9-10).
Well-Known for her Good Deeds
1. Bringing up children
Like Timothy's grandmother, Lois and mother Eunice, godly women have the "sincere faith" (II Tim. 1:5) which prepares them to train younger women (Titus 2:4), and to train children "from infancy to know the holy scriptures which are able to make wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus." (II Tim. 3:15). What greater "good deeds" are there than leading others to Jesus?
2. Showing hospitality
Lydia in Philippi showed hospitality to the apostle Paul and Silas and others after her baptism (Acts 16:15) and after they were released from prison (Acts 16:40). The apostle Paul commended Phoebe of the church at Cenchrea for being "a great help to many people, including me" (Rom. 16:1-2).
3. Washing the feet of the saints
When Jesus washed the feet of his disciples, he said to them...(John 13:14-15). Jesus did not institute a ceremony of simply demonstrated "an example" of humble service to our brethren for us to follow. Rufus' mother, Paul said...(Rom. 16:13), indicating that she had selflessly attended to his needs when he came by.
4. Helping those in trouble.
Is there a more lovely and touching account than the example of Dorcas, who is described as...(Acts 9:36)? The widows who knew her showed the apostle Peter...(Acts 9:39).
5. Devoted to all kinds of good deeds
(Titus 3:14). There is no age at which Christians may think that they need not continue to "devote themselves to doing what is good."
[from The Truth in Love, p. 2-3, 12-13]

THE CHURCH IN JERUSALEM: FELLOWSHIP
Today the word fellowship is used to apply to just about anything and yet many times we do not realize the full implications of Christian fellowship in the church. The early church in Jerusalem saw fellowship as an important part of their Christianity, as important as the apostle's doctrine, the breaking of bread or prayer. It was said that they were continually devoted to it (Acts 2:42). The simple meaning of the word fellowship is sharing. This implies that when we make our personal commitment to following Christ we enter a family or body of people with whom we share this salvation. Our involvement with others who share this salvation in Christ is not optional but essential. Christ's work brought about reconciliation between God and man (II Cor. 5:18-19) but also between man and man (Gal. 3:28). We not only can now get on with God because our sins are forgiven but we can also get on with our fellowman because we have been forgiven by God which means we must forgive others (Matt. 6:14-15). The death of Christ therefore opens up the way to meaningful sharing of our lives as Christians.
Too often non-believers have been turned off because there is no love shown to each other by the followers of Christ. Surely this says that we need to fully get hold of this idea of Christian fellowship. To share our lives means we openly accept one another despite our different backgrounds, it means we share our blessings with those who are in need. It was said of the Jerusalem church...(Acts 4:34). That was the result of true fellowship. To share our lives means we also share our troubles and disappointments and thus ease the burden on each other (Gal. 6:2; Rom. 12:15). We also share our faith with one another, encouraging and up-lifting one another; praying for and with each other because we are member of one another.
When Christians think that they can follow a form of solitary Christianity they have missed one of the most important aspects of being a Christian. Being a Christian is not just regular attendance at worship services on Sunday and midweek classes but is a day to day fellowship with others; visiting, eating together, assisting and helping, praying for and rejoicing with others. True Christian fellowship is one of the things that creates interest in the gospel in the community. When they see our genuine love for one another they will desire to know more of our faith (John 13:34-35). Let us all strive to develop a deep Christian fellowship.
(Acts 2:46-47).
[from Auckland church of Christ bulletin, Nov. 1980s]

Nothing is so contagious as enthusiasm.

AND CHRIST LOVE ME! SO WHAT!
God wants us to be a functional member of a local church body. We can't just be a Christian at large. We have a responsibility in the local body. There is a need for Christian fellowship. Loving and treating people as they are loved. The context of I Cor. 13 was Paul showing disappointment with the Corinthians for not loving each other. Pride and conflict had set in.
(Col. 3:14; I Pet. 4:8; Rom. 12:5, 10; Rom. 15:5, 14; Rom. 16:3-16; Eph. 4:2; Eph. 5:21; I Thes. 5:11; John 13:34-35).
[by Frank Buck from sermons at Albuquerque's University church of Christ, July 11, 1982]

WILL HE CALL MY NAME - UNITY
When a person learns about Jesus and obeys, he is brought into the church. Those who received the word:
1. They were a happy people. Not critical, pessimistic, miserable. They believed in the future and present.
2. Awe filled people. God thinks about them. Jesus died for me. They couldn't take religion casually.
3. They were single-minded. They thought about one thing only. Jesus died for me.
They saw these traits reflect in their fellowship
1. A closeness to the word. Close to the apostle's doctrine. People are anxious to read their Bibles often because we love the Lord. The joy produces study.
2. The awe produces worship. God cares for me personally; I'll worship Him. Worship is an activity of reverence and adoration. Not meant to please me but meant to please God. Pouring out my affection and adoration to God. God tells me how to worship him. In Acts 2 they were meeting every day. No one had to beg them to get together.
3. Single-mindedness produces unity. A singular fellowship. They had been through problems together. The troubles they mutually experienced created a bonding. Christ prayed for unity.
[by Joe Gray, 1977]

LOCAL CHURCHES WERE ORGANIZED TO EDIFY
Not every Christian is an able teacher (I Cor. 12:29; James 3:1). Not all Christians are spiritual (Gal. 6:1). The church is constantly replenished with babes who need spiritual growth (I Pet. 2:2). Edification, therefore, was a major reason for the regular assembly of the church (I Cor. 14:26) and was to be accomplished in an orderly and well planned fashion (I Cor. 14:40). Inasmuch as not everyone was qualified for such a task, God ordained for evangelists, pastors (bishops or pastors), and teachers to edify the local church and to bring her members out of spiritual childhood into spiritual maturity (Eph. 4:11-16).
The Lord appointed regular assemblies to expedite the task and commanded the saints not to forsake them (Heb. 10:25). In these assemblies they provoked one another unto love and good works and exhorted one another (Heb. 10:24-25). Regular assemblies of the local church, special classes for Bible education, edification, leadership and preacher training, soul winning etc., as part of the development program of the local church are essential expedients for the spiritual maturation of God's people according to his purpose. The local church is God's education and training center. When it functions as God designed, it automatically becomes the very heartbeat of the Christian's active life.
[from The Star p. 7]

ENCOURAGE ONE ANOTHER
Jesus endured the cross without much support from His disciples. When Paul went on trial before Caesar he said, "No one took my part; all deserted me."
These examples remind us that mature, love-motivated Christians will remain faithful to their trust without human encouragement. They will man their post, if must be, unhelped, unappreciated, and unthanked. Without men and women of such calibre, the church could not survive.
But what of those not so mature? In his youth, John Mark failed to pull his weight on an important mission. He quit and went home. Paul wanted to discard him, Barnabas stood by him. Years later, Paul wrote, "Send Mark, for he is a faithful minister to me." What if Barnabas had not encouraged Mark, back in the days of his immaturity?
Encouragement is a spiritual gift and a ministry that makes life more pleasant for everyone. And it isn't called for just because some would fold without it. Jesus wanted it, when He took the disciples with Him into the garden. Paul yearned for it, in his lonely prison cell. Encouragement is a Christian work which beautifies the relationship between the encouraged and the encourager.
Some of us seem to get more than our share of it; others receive very little. Hardly a Sunday passes that I'm not told what a "wonderful sermon that was"...even if it wasn't! And while I'm grateful for that kind of support, I like to think I'd do my work faithfully without it. But who knows, for sure?
As I'm working on another of those wonderful sermons, I hear Ted come in, as he does every Saturday, to gas up the buses. I wonder how much encouragement he gets. But I'm too busy to say anything to him. I'm just glad that he's the kind that can meet his responsibilities without a lot of reinforcement. Then, I remember that there are others, teaching, serving, giving, working faithfully in areas essential to our survival. Do we dare gamble on their maturity? Even if we can, wouldn't it be nicer for all of us if we occasionally expressed our gratitude?
Encourage one another!
[by Ruel D. Catlett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin]

TWELVE EXCELLEMT RULES TO PROMOTE HARMONY AMONG CHURCH MEMBERS
1. To remember that we are all subject to failings of one kind or another.
2. To bear with - and not magnify -- each other's infirmities. (Gal. 6:1-2).
3. To pray one for another in our social meetings, and particularly in private. (James 5:16).
4. To avoid going from house to house, for the purpose of bearing news and interfering with other people's business.
5. Always turn a deaf ear to any slanderous report and to lay no charge against any person until well founded.
6. If a member be in fault, tell him of it in private, before it is mentioned to others.
7. To watch against shyness of each other and put the best construction on any action that has the appearance of
opposition or resentment.
8. To observe the just rules of Solomon -- That is, to leave off contention before it is meddled with. (Prov. 17:14).
9. If a member has offended, consider how Godlike it is to forgive, and how unlike a Christian it is to seek revenge.
10. Remember that it is always a giant artifice of the devil to promote distance and animosities among members of the church; and we should therefore watch against everything that furthers this end.
11. To consider how much more good we can do in the world at large, and in the church in particular, when we are all united in love, than we could do when acting alone, and indulging in a contrary spirit.
12. Lastly, to consider the express injunction of the scriptures, and the beautiful example of Christ, as to these things, (Eph. 4:32; I Pet. 2:21; John 13:5, 15)
[from Sycarmore Chapel bulletin, Nov. 8, 1992 p. 2]

THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE
While drinking in the beauty of God's creation, don't fail to appreciate the beauty of his saints.
Many Old Testament passages pointed the Jews to the Messiah who would bring in a new age. Here is one of the most familiar:
(Jer. 31:31-34).
The beautiful Prophecy
Not as familiar, but equally beautiful, is this:  (Zech. 12:8-9).
Surely David is the most beautiful of all the Old Testament characters. God said, "He is a man after my own heart." But in the new age "the feeblest of them shall be like David" - David, the brave warrior, the sweet singer, the loyal friend, the greatest of Israel's kings. David, beloved of God, will in the new age be equaled by the least of God's people.
The Prophecy Fulfilled
I could name a hundred, perhaps several hundred, saints who are as beautiful before God and man as was David. These saints radiate the Spirit and beauty of the Lord. They encourage me by their example, pray for me often, and love me without reservation. We are surrounded by Davids!
May God open our eyes to see the beauty of people around us, and open our hearts to praise him for so great a gift.
[by William H. Davis from 20th Century Christian, p. 21]

RESTORING COMMUNITY
The French have an expression for letting people do as they please. They call it "laissez faire." In effect it says "you tend to your business and I will tend to mine."
Christianity is wholly opposed to this concept. There is no such thing as being a Christian in isolation. When men and women are saved, the Lord adds them to the church (Acts 2:47). Membership in this community means fellowship with the apostles, with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ, and with one another (I John 1:1-7). In the early chapters of the Acts of the Apostles we find "all, with one accord, together." That is, fellowship, or community. A beautiful picture. The word "community" has its roots in the word "common." Thus it speaks of that which belongs or pertains equally to all. For example, a piece of ground may be called a common, meaning that this tract of ground is not appropriated to an individual, but belongs to or is used by the public.
As you begin to study the church of the first century, nothing is more impressive than the sense of community.
Material Fellowship
Luke tells us that in the beginning of the church...(Acts 2:44-45). Nothing was done by force. There was no compulsory division of property or communistic principles, for the Lord never laid down a law that all must have equal shares. That which happened in Jerusalem sprang out of brotherly love. Their fellowship was so strong that...(Acts 4:32).
Years before, the Greeks had perceived that this was the true ideal of friendship, as is shown by their proverb: "Common are the possessions of friends." But it took Christians to make such a lofty ideal into a reality.
That the selling of property was quite voluntary is clear from the special commendation bestowed upon Barnabas for so doing, and from the words of Peter to Ananias, which show that, as long as the individual retained them, both the property and its price were entirely his own (Acts 4:36-37; Acts 5:4).
Community of goods in the New Testament Church was not limited geographically. Christians in Europe contributed to the needs of their brothers in Jerusalem through the collection taken by Paul. As we grow more like the church of New Testament times, we will grow less attached to our possessions and more generous and open-handed in meeting the needs of our brothers and sisters.
Spiritual Fellowship
With such a feeling of community it was natural that these Christians would be concerned about the spiritual welfare of their brothers and sisters in Christ. There was no room for indifference for they were members "one of another."
Christians were taught to show the highest regard for those who were laboring among them admonishing them (I Thes. 5:12-13). These spiritual superintendents were daily teaching the scriptures, warning, helping and encouraging.
But Christians were expected to help one another, too. It was not just a job for the leadership. Thus the apostle Paul writes...(I Thes. 5:14-15).
For true community to exist, God's chosen ones were to put on...(Col. 3:12-14).
If a brother sinned, it became the obligation of those who were spiritual to "restore him in a spirit of gentleness" (Gal. 6:1). By bearing one another's burdens the early Christians were fulfilling the law of Christ.
They soon learned both to rejoice and weep with one another, to admonish and encourage one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, to confess their sins to one another and pray for one another. In short, they were God's family.
This tremendous sense of fellowship and community needs to be restored in our own day. To be a believer means to share with other believers the life which is in Christ. If we are truly in fellowship, in the church, we will act like it.
[by John Gibson from 20th Century Christian, p. 17-18]

ENCOURAGEMENT
February 1949, Ben Hogan, the greatest professional golfer in history, was involved in a head-on collision with a bus in which he nearly lost his life. As a result of the accident he suffered a fractured pelvis, shoulder and ribs, a shattered ankle and extreme shock and later in the hospital he suffered from blood clots. Everyone had given him up for dead, but eventually he was up and learning to walk again. He fell time after time, but he refused to give up. Until finally he made it one time around the block, but with great pain. Then he started putting, and practicing his golf strokes and in spite of the doubters, and the pain, he in 1950 entered the Los Angeles Open, which after 72 holes of golf, he lost to Sam Snead. However, in June 1950 he entered the U.S. Open Golf Tournament and won by four strokes. Ben Hogan was great to many because he refused to give up and because of his example, and encouragement, many that were handicapped went on to make themselves great, inspite of the handicap.
The word "encourage" means to "inspire with courage", "to cheer, to rally, to hearten".
One who encourages literally renovates the spiritual powers of another, and gives him strength to venture out, engenders boldness to withstand dangers, fears and difficulties.
To me there is no greater need for the church than to have brethren that can and will encourage. Truly this person renders a great service for he puts the heart back into the disheartened, lights candles that have been blown out or have been allowed to die out.
The discouraged man is a defeated man, a useless man, and it matters not if he is rich, powerful, and endowed with great ability. A lack of courage will ultimately end in him losing it all. Just as the man with one talent in Matt. 25:25 did, he went because of fear, and hid his talent in the ground.
Physically and spiritually, no other attitude does as much damage to us as individuals. It hurts our business, our health, our disposition and our outlook. We become wretched, restless, miserable, discontent, with no song, no sunshine.
Notice David, in I Sam. 30:1-6. He is an encourager.
Two phrases are important here, first: "David encouraged himself..." We can not give what we do not have, we can not sing a song we do not know. David did not ignore the difficulties he was in, nor did he encourage himself by considering his own greatness. Zig Ziglar has said, "Conceit is a weird disease, that makes everyone sick but the one that has it." David was not self centered, but was God centered. He wasn't about to throw in the towel, or run away, but sought encouragement.
He sought his encouragement, "in the Lord his God." (Psa. 39:7).
The facts are that David and his men were away from their wives and children who were in Ziklag, and while they were away, the Amalekites came and burned the city and took all captives. Everyone was tired when they got home but all they found was a burnt city. The next scene is all the army of David crying until they can cry no more. Then they blame David, they want to stone him. Certainly David's military staff offered no help. David was alone in this. But David shows his strength in depending upon God, the source of strength, the ultimate Encourager.
Certainly we can benefit from David's life. Surely we can see we are not sufficient in and of ourselves, and that we need to depend on the power of God.
In spite of all difficulties, let's be like Paul, who in jail sang and prayed, who in the tempest trusted in God (Acts 27:25).
(John 14:1).
Let's not allow anything nor anyone to shake our faith in God, realizing that He really is with us, unto the end of the world, therefore let's go with the gospel.
[by Jack Exum, Jr., p. 15-16.]

SHARING WITHIN THE BODY OF CHRIST
The telephone rang. A middle-aged Christian woman said, "You don't know me, but I know that you specialize in helping people solve problems. I am at the home of a friend who is an alcoholic. She has a bottle of Scotch and a bottle of pills and is threatening suicide. Will you come?"
A few minutes later we were in Flo's livingroom, but she was too drunk to reason. But her heart cried out in her loneliness for someone to care. The next afternoon we were back again. Flo told us, "I don't need money. My husband owned a chain of drug stores, and left me financially secure. I don't need a car. I have a $6,000 car in the driveway. I don't need clothes. I have more than enough. I don't need furs, I have more than I wear. All I need is a friend."
Sharing a Friend
Then Marie and I shared Christ with her. I asked, "Would you like a friend who would never leave you - to whom you could turn day or night . . . who would be with you always?"
Tears welled up in her eyes as she said, "Oh yes, that's what I need." We continued to talk with Flo about Christ and his love for her. After several months of study and help from God, Flo became our sister in Christ. She's so different now. She has composure and confidence and is busy learning more so she can share her faith with others.
That's what the body of Christ, the church of Christ, really is. It is a hospital for repairing the social, physical, mental and spiritual ills of every person.
Sharing Problems
God did not leave you comfortless. When you became a Christian, he added you to a problem-sharing body. You help others and receive great help yourself. You can't help others without helping yourself.
Within the body, my greatest needs are fulfilled, as I get involved in helping others:
1. I need communion with my fellows and my Lord. Jesus supplies this. (Matt. 18:19-20).
2. I need forgiveness. I receive it as I learn to forgive others, for then I can pray...(Matt. 18:21-22).
3. I need relief of the pain of my heart, mind and body. Within the body of Christ I have an outlet to...(James 5:16).
4. I need the concern of others. Jesus and my church relationship provide this. In James 5:19-20 I learn that I'm to concern myself with those that err from the Christ life. In so doing I become stronger.
5. I need love. This love is provided in the body of Christ. Christ commanded me to desire the best for all others, especially for my brothers and sisters in Christ. (John 13:34-35).
6. I need comfort in time of trial and tribulation. In the final analysis, my comfort comes from God and the godly. Paul exhorts us to...(II Cor. 1:4).
Sharing Self
Within the body of Christ is that relationship which provides opportunities for Christian ministry. Here love is manifest in that greatest manifestation of love, Christian service.
Jesus points the way by saying...(Matt. 20:25-28).
Even though the world does not accept this way of life, the world sees the source of strength. In a recent suicide note Jack wrote. "When you find me, call Maurice Hall first, he'll help you." Jack did not avail himself of the comfort that God provides through his messengers, but Jack knew the source of that comfort.
Thank God for problems. Every problem is an opportunity for service.
Get involved in helping others. You can't help others without helping yourself.
[by Maurice Hall from 20th Century Christian]

BARKING FOR AN EXCUSE
A dog hitched to a lawnmower stopped pulling to bark at a passerby. The boy who was guiding the mower said, "Don't mind the dog mister, for he's just barking for an excuse to rest."
It is easier to bark than work; easier to burn a house than to build one; easier to hinder what others are doing than help them; easier to destroy reputation than to build a character. Fault finding is as dangerous as it is easy. It is easier to be critical than correct. Anyone can grumble, criticize, and censure but it takes a great soul to go on working faithfully and rise superior to it. No, it doesn't take brains to be a grouch. Dale Carnegie said: "Only a fool will criticize, condemn, and complain ... and most fools do."
[from Savannah church of Christ bulletin]

SOMEONE WITH SKIN ON
A little girl was frightened by a storm as she lay in her bedroom alone. She called out to her father, asking him to come in and comfort her. He told her to pray about it. A few minutes later, she called out again. He told her not to worry, God was with her. She replied, "I know God is with me, but I need someone with skin on him!"
We are like that sometimes. Although our ready access to God comforts us, sometimes we need the assurance of a listening ear, an understanding touch, a sympathetic nod. That is not a sign of weakness, either. I believe God designed us this way, and that He provided the church so that we could comfort one another.
May we always be there when a brother or sister needs "someone with skin on him!"
[by Chuck Jones from Attalla Church of Christ Bulletin via Savannah church of Christ bulletin]

THE MINISTRY OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Every member of the church is to be a minister. Christianity is personal involvement with the Son of God. It is learning to serve with Christ, growing up into his likeness. The object of service is to be like Jesus and to know him better. So, he is not only our goal, but our motivation as well.
As ministers for our Lord Jesus we need to consider the various ministries of the church and discover our Christ-motivated gift for serving. All of us are involved with the ministry of encouragement. We all need encouragement and we all need to give it.
The Biblical term for encourage can be translated in various contexts as "to exhort" or "to admonish." even "beg." It is also used "to comfort" or "consolation."
The primary means of mutual encouragement is through the communication of God's truth. Elders are to encourage others with sound doctrine (Titus 1:9). Paul exhorted Timothy to preach the Word -- to correct, rebuke and to encourage with great patience and careful instruction (II Tim. 4:2).
Consider some aspect from the encouragement Paul gave to the Christians in Thessalonica:
I Thes. 2:10-13 He encouraged them as a father.
I Thes. 4:13-18 Encourage each other with these words.
I Thes. 5:8-11 We need reminding of life's purpose.
II Thes. 2:13-17 We are receivers of eternal encouragement!
Paul's motivation to encourage in heart and to unite in love was in order to reveal the mystery of God: "Christ in you, the hope of glory." (Col. 1:24-2:2, c.f. Col. 3:12-17).
Fellowship is an essential part of encouragement (Heb. 10:19-25). Christians need encouragement and are to encourage one another daily (Heb. 3:12-15). Encouragement is more than verbal, it is seen in loving service as well.
May we all participate in mutual edification of the church through the ministry of encouragement.
[by Steve Mick from The Capital Letter 29 November, p. 1]

CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
THE FOUNDATION OF FELLOWSHIP
The Greek word "koinonia" is commonly used in the New Testament to indicate some aspect of "sharing in common", or "fellowship", applied to the Christian community.
All kinds of fellowships exist in the world, and all who belong to any particular fellowship do so because they accept the constitution and meet the conditions for that fellowship.
God is the founder of the fellowship being considered in this lesson. (I Cor. 1:9).
Jesus Christ is the foundation of this fellowship, for He promised...(Matt.16:18; I Cor. 3:11).
Christians compose this fellowship, for they are...(Eph. 2:19-22).
In the New Testament writings, the apostles of Jesus...(I John 1:3). Since Jesus commissioned His apostles to...(Matt. 28:19-20), they did just that. On the day of Pentecost, the apostles declared the Founder and Foundation of the new fellowship. They outlined the conditions of admission to the fellowship and all who complied by believing, repenting and being baptized, then...(see Acts 2:14-42).
(II Cor. 13:14).
[from The Truth in Love p. 12-13]

CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
In the New Testament, the Greek noun, "koinonia", and its verb and adjectival forms, are variously translated "fellowship", "sharing", "communion", "communication", "contribution", "partaking".
The best way to learn the meaning and application of Bible words is to look up the passages where they occur and see how they are used. Hence to get an idea of what "koinonia" means, turn to the following verses:
Matt. 23:30; Luke 5:10; Acts 2:42; Rom. 12:13; Rom. 15:26-27; I Cor. 1:9; I Cor. 10:16-20; II Cor. 1:7; II Cor. 6:14; II Cor. 8:4; II Cor. 8:23; II Cor. 9:13; II Cor. 13:14; Gal. 2:9; Gal. 6:6; Eph. 3:9; Phili. 1:5; Phili. 2:1; Phili. 3:10; Phili. 4:15; I Tim. 5:22; I Tim. 6:18; Phile. 6; Phile. 17; Heb. 2:14; Heb. 10:33; Heb. 13:16; I Pet. 4:13; I Pet. 5:1; II Pet. 1:4; I John 1:3-7; II John 11.
As will be seen from these Bible readings, the word "koinonia" means a close sharing or involvement in a variety of situations. Thus Jesus quoted the Pharisees as claiming that they would not have "taken part" in the killing of the prophets (Matt. 23:30). In Luke 5:10, we see that Simon's "partners" in a fishing business were James and John. Acts 2:42 refers to the "fellowship" of Christians as something they "devoted themselves to" along with the other things mentioned in that verse.
Christians are to "share" "with God's people who are in need" (Rom. 12:13). An example of this was the way Christians in the churches of Macedonia and Achaia made "contribution" for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem (Rom. 15:26). Christians are those who have been called into "fellowship" with Jesus Christ (I Cor. 1:9). And they "participate" in the Lord's Supper (I Cor. 10:16), but not in pagan sacrifices to idols (I Cor. 10:20). Christians "share" in each other's sufferings for Christ (II Cor. 1:7). But they cannot compromise their faith by "fellowship" with unbelievers (II Cor. 6:14). The apostle Paul wrote of Titus as his "partner" in the work of the gospel (II Cor. 8:23), and he prayed that the "fellowship" of the Holy Spirit be with those to whom he wrote (II Cor. 13-14).
So, as one reads all the references listed, we get a good idea of the meaning of "koinonia", especially as it is applied to Christian fellowship.
[from The Truth in Love]

FORMULA FOR MISERY
1. Use "I" as often as possible.
2. Always be sensitive to slights.
3. Be jealous and envious.
4. Think only about yourself.
5. Talk only about yourself.
6. Trust no one.
7. Never forget a criticism.
8. Always expect to be appreciated.
9. Be suspicious.
10. Listen greedily to what others say of you.
11. Always look for faults in others.
12. Do as little as possible for others.
13. Shirk your duties if you can.
14. Never forget a service you may have rendered.
15. Sulk if people aren't grateful for your favors.
16. Insist on consideration and respect.
17. Demand agreement with your own views always.
18. Always look for a good time.
19. Love yourself first and foremost.
20. Be selfish at all times.
21. Refuse to compliment others when they excell.
22. Allow all your moods to be evident to others.
23. Confess the faults of others instead of your own.
24. Refuse to accept responsibilities.
25. Brag on all your past accomplishments.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin]

LOVE ONE ANOTHER
Greek words for love in the New Testament:
Eros - desire toward some person or thing
Philia - friendship love
Storge - the sort of natural affection felt for those closest to us.
Agape - selfless love; expecting nothing in return.
I John 3:23. What does God command us to do?
I Pet. 1:22. How are we to love one another?
return.
I John 4:7-12. Why should we love one another? What is the result of our loving one another?
return.
I John 5:1-3. For Christians, love for one another is a must and not an option.
John 15:9-17. How much are we to love one another?
Love is the basis for unity in the church.

ADMONISH ONE ANOTHER

1. Admonish means: indicate duties or obligation, express warning or disapproval, give directions, explanations or advice, earnestly, gently.
(Rom. 15:14; Col. 3:15-17;