I ASK YOU TO BE JUST A CHRISTIAN!

I ask you to be just a Christian! Not merely to put your name on some church roll, not merely to attend church occasionally or even regularly - but to be a Christian. The word actually means "belonging to Christ." In asking you this, I ask the most that any man can ask of another.

You would hesitate to ask your neighbor for a week or even a day of his time, yet in asking you to be a Christian I ask you for not less than five hours of every week in your life, for one can hardly hope to succeed as a Christian with less of a time investment than this. And that is only in the time directly spent. To be a Christian will affect what you do twenty-four hours a day. Nothing will be the same. Your job, your home, your school life, your conversation, your recreation, your reading, even your dreams will be different.

When I ask you to be a Christian, I ask you to refuse some ways of talking, some ways of playing, some friendships. I ask you to submit to a guide which you have never seen and to accept as a leader one who was executed as a traitor. I ask you to give up being your own boss, and to accept a moral code which is so demanding that no human has ever kept it perfectly. I ask you to fall in love with a God who became a man for you, who felt the pain of a whip, nails and a cross for you. I ask you to give yourself away so fully that you would die yourself, rather than deny or reproach your Master.

This is the price of being a Christian. As Christ Himself expressed it...(Luke 9:23-24.)

You may be shocked at the cost; you may wonder at how freely I can ask you for so much. Yet the very first time the offer was made, three thousand accepted it at once and other thousands soon followed and by no means considered Christianity a grievous burden to be borne or as an unpleasant duty to fulfill. They called the story of paying this price, of becoming a Christian, the good news, the gospel. Instead of another burden piled on top of their already too-heavy load, they thought of it as a relief from oppression.

Surely the unknowing must be asking, but how? How can something which asks your time, money, thought, obedience, in fact all you have, how can this make your load lighter? It must only make it harder for you to make a living and to raise your family, go to school and have friends. It takes money which could have gone on food, family, or fun. Have you ever stopped to think what Christ gave up for you? He paid a debt I could never pay.
[by Stafford North from Sycamore Chapel Newsletter, May 20, 1990]

COMMITTED, CURIOUS AND COERCED!

In any large church meeting there will be assembled those who are committed, those who are curious and those who feel they are coerced to come. The committed are there in response to their Lord's will and because they want to be there. The curious come to hear what is taught and to see what is done in the meeting. They may come for social reasons rather than for scriptural ones and be disappointed. Those who feel coerced or forced to come are neither committed to Jesus or curious about the teaching and practices of the church.

The committed pray that the curious visitor may look beyond the human weaknesses in the meeting and see the Christ whom we try to serve. The committed pray that those who feel coerced to be present may see beyond "the boring hour" and feel the presence of the Christ who died to save them. (Rom. 5:8.)
[From the Truth In Love]

THE GOSPEL IS WORTH TELLING AND HEARING

Our Lord requires faithful preachers of his gospel to be diligent to "watch your life and doctrine closely" (I Tim. 4:16). That is, preachers must be known to be exemplary in life and sound in doctrine. The Lord also requires hearers of his gospel to (James 1:22). If we hearers put as much effort into noting what is taught as the preachers put into the preparation of what they teach us, we would be well-acquainted with "the teaching about righteousness" (Heb. 5:13-14). Few of us are gifted with powers of full retention, and there is much to be said in favour of writing down notes of Bible references given during the lessons, in order to review these later. How can we "do what it says" if we don't remind ourselves of what we have heard?

KEEP THE WAY OF THE LORD : APPROACHING DEATH

(Psa. 116:15, Phili. 1:21)
Death is certain (Job 14:1-12)
Death is an equaliser (Job 3:17-19)
Death is a sleep (Acts 13:36; John 11:11-13)
In death there is no awareness (Job 14:21, Eccl. 9:5, 10; Isa. 38:18-19)
Is death the end? (Eccl. 3:19-21)
With death our destinies are fixed (Heb. 9:27, II Cor. 5:10)
The hope for the righteous (Psa. 49:13-15; Isa. 57:1-2)
The promise to the righteous (Dan. 12:13; John 11:25-26)
The confidence of the righteous (I Cor. 15:20-22; I Cor. 15:51-52; John 5:28-29)
The comfort for the righteous (I Thes. 4:13-18)
The welcome awaiting the righteous (II Tim. 4:6-8; II Pet. 1:10-11)

LOOK UP TO JESUS, REJOICE & PRAY

Two look out through the same bars; one looks down and sees the mud, the other looks up and sees the stars.

The apostle Paul was imprisoned many times for his faith (II Cor. 11:23) and yet, writing from prison, he could say, (Phili. 4:11).

On another occasion in prison, Paul and Silas were "praying and singing hymns of praise to God" (Acts 16:25). At yet another time, in prison for more than two years (Acts 24:27), Paul persuasively urged his interrogators to become Christians like himself (Acts 26:28-29). Later, under house arrest in Rome, Paul enthusiastically taught others about Jesus (Acts 28:16, 30-31).

We can be like Paul - have the same contentment, confidence, peace and joy he had, no matter what our circumstances might be.

Paul's secret was simply to look up and rejoice in and pray to God constantly. In so doing he received strength (Phili. 4:4-13). When we do likewise, "fixing our eyes on Jesus" (Heb. 12:2), we shall be strong, too. Be imitators of Paul, just as he was of Christ (I Cor. 11:1).

Rejoice in the Lord. Some church members have not learned the secret of "rejoicing in the Lord greatly" (Phili. 4:10). Yet God would not command Christians to "rejoice always" (I Thes. 5:16) if it were impossible to do so.

There is no need for any Christian to feel miserable in his or her faith, so long as he or she follows the teaching of God's word on rejoicing. We can only fail to have this joy if we don't practise God's teaching. But, remember, even Jesus can't help you to be joyful if you don't follow his advice (Matt. 19:16-22).
[from Truth in Love, Nov. 6, 1988]

GOD WANTS YOU

Be dynamic! Be Dedicated! Be dependable! "The gospel is the power (Greek 'dunamis' cf. 'dynamite') of God for the salvation of everyone who believes" (Rom. 1:16). Many people don't experience the explosive power of the gospel because they don't believe (Luke 8:12). And many people have a low-grade belief which reduces the power of the gospel in their lives to a mere fizzer (Luke 8:13-14). Some people know they need what the gospel brings and its effect to them is tremendous relief and new-found spiritual strength (Luke 8:15).

(Rom. 5:6, 9.) How many Christians really appreciate what Jesus' death saves them from and saves them to? We don't have to stamp our feet, clap our hands, shout or pump each other's arms to persuade ourselves and others that we know the power of the gospel. Its real power is proved in the kind of quiet confidence and determined perseverance which empowered the apostle Paul to say...(Phili. 4:13). This kind of spiritual power doesn't need recharging at exciting and emotional meetings. The dynamite power of the gospel is realised in our own enduring devotion to Jesus (Heb. 12:1-3), in our constant loyalty to our brethren (I Pet. 1:22) and in our daily service of good works to all (Titus 3:8).
[from Truth in Love]

BEWARE THE BEGUILEMENT OF BELIEVERS

Long-time observers of the charismatic scene find it a source of continuing concern that the same disabled and disadvantaged undiminishing crowds of exploited hopefuls present themselves to the never-ending stream of religious healers falsely promoting and claiming the name of Jesus (Matt. 7:21-23). They come under different doctrinal banners, all in conflict with the Holy Spirit's unchanging New Testament word. The sceptics of the apostles' time rejected but could not deny their miraculous powers (Acts 4:16), while the sceptics of today laughingly dismiss the claims of the charismatic healers who so cause the name of the Lord to be blasphemed in the world (Rom. 2:24). Don't throw in your lot with these preachers of unscriptural and unfulfilled promises.

It is a tragedy when some Christians are seduced by the search for the dramatic and sensational, rather than quietly applying themselves to the constant care and encouragement of the disabled and disadvantaged in the community at large. It is interesting to note that the professing followers of Jesus are going to be judged on their practice of such love (Matt. 25:31ff) and not on the gifts of the Holy Spirit (I Cor. 12:31-I Cor. 13:13). The power of God is in his word and not in ourselves (Rom. 1:16; I Cor. 3:7-8). Jesus did his mightiest miraculous works at Capernaum, but he failed to persuade many there (Luke 4:31-36; Luke 7:1-10; Luke 10:13-16). Noah was accounted a "preacher of righteousness" (II Pet. 2:5) despite few responses (cf. Luke 17:26). The apostle Paul failed at Athens (Acts 17) despite having gifts more than others (I Cor. 14:18), and many departed from the truth he taught in other places (e.g. Gal. 1:6ff).

Signs and wonders don't convert people to the Lord (Matt. 16:1-4), but honest and good hearts who respond to the word faithfully sown (Luke 8:15) will be saved (John 20:29-31). Large numbers are not the true test of faithful preaching (John 6:66; Luke 18:8). Don't be beguiled by the blandishments of Satan (II Cor. 11:14-15).
[from Truth in Love, Dec. 6, 1987, p. 1]

IGNORANCE IS NO EXCUSE!

In spite of ample opportunity and encouragement to learn God's will, some Christians still plead ignorance of what is constantly taught in the church. Our Lord challenges preachers and teachers of his word to "correct, rebuke and encourage - with great patience and careful instruction" (II Tim. 4:2). Our Lord also challenges the hearers of his word: (James 1:22). Both hearers and teachers need to be reminded of our Lord's solemn warning: "From everyone (e.g., hearers of his word) who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one (e.g. preachers and teachers) who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked" (Luke 12:48; cf Heb. 5:12; James 3:1).
[From Truth in Love]

DON'T SLANDER YOUR BRETHREN!

The composition of membership in different congregations may have a significant effect of the kinds of activities in which each can engage. There are general scriptural principles for churches of Christ which require unity in teaching content and worship practice among the churches (Matt. 28:18-20, II John 9, I Cor. 4:6, 17, Eph. 4:3-6, II Thes. 2:15, I Tim. 3:15, I Tim. 4:16, II Tim. 2:2, II Tim. 4:2, Jude 3, Rev. 22:18-19). But there are other required church activities for which the manner of execution is left to the discretion of each church's members.

Every member of every congregation is a person saved by complying with the terms the Lord has given for forgiveness of sins and for salvation (Acts 2:38; Mark 16:16; Luke 24:47; John 20:31; Gal. 3:26-27; I Pet. 3:21) and thus added by the Lord to this church (Acts 2:47; Eph. 5:23; I Cor. 12:13). All members of each congregation are required to meet together (Heb. 10:25) in order that they may "devote themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer" (Acts 2:42), and to share of their means (I Cor. 16:1-2) to supply the needs of God's people (II Cor. 8-II Cor. 9) and to support the spread of the gospel of salvation to all (I Cor. 9:7-14, II Cor. 11:8-9).

Every member of every congregation has different God-given gifts to use zealously in the common aim of the Lord's work (Rom. 12:4-8; I Cor. 12:12-27; Matt. 25:14ff). The distribution and exercise of these different gifts among members of one congregation may happen to have more members gifted in preaching and teaching than another, or more members gifted in the ability to contribute more than another, or more favourable opportunities to do things than another, or a more receptive community to work in than another. Congregational effectiveness or success should not be measured by numbers of baptisms, and it is improper for us to make gratuitous disparaging remarks about other congregations. Instead, let us lovingly encourage our brethren in faithful and steadfast service wherever they are, in whatever ways we can.
[from Truth in Love, Nov. 22, 1987, p. 1]

WORLDLINESS AND SPIRITUALITY IN THE LORD'S CHURCH

Jesus foretold, and subsequent observation confirms, a division among members of his church into those who are worldly and those who are spiritually-minded.

Addressing the Old Covenant people of God (Israel) in his own day, Jesus said some of them did not hear or understand God's word or were weak and distractible, while others were more preoccupied with worldly interests. On the other hand, there were some who did hear and understand the word (Matt. 13:18-23). Foretelling the situation among the New Covenant people of God today (Christians), Jesus said that his kingdom or church would have a mixture of weeds and wheat in it which will be sorted out at the judgement day (Matt. 13:36-43) or, put another way, in a net there would be good and bad fish which angels will separate on that last day (Matt. 13:47-50). Jesus illustrated this sad fact in his parables of the ten virgins and the talents and in his division of his people like sheep and goats at his coming (Read Matt. 25 and note Jesus' criteria for selection). The New Testament letters of the apostles to the churches are full of urgings to Christians to shun worldliness and to be spiritually-minded. Many congregations are composed of worldly and spiritually-minded members; the former are unable to discern right from wrong teachings and practices because they have little desire to learn (Heb. 5:11-14), and they cannot be addressed as spiritual because they are not ready to understand (I Cor. 3:1-3). Worldly Christians fail to differentiate between spiritual and worldly planes (Gal. 5:13-25), lack the wisdom to learn the difference (James 1:5-27), fail to replace self-indulgent aims by self-denying service (Matt. 15:31-46), and neglect to make their calling and election sure (II Pet. 1:3-11).

The sad fact is that spiritually-minded Christians will read this and understand, and feel guilty for not doing more for their Lord and his church; while worldly Christians will not read or will try to justify themselves and feel no need to repent (Rev. 2:1-7, 12-17; Rev. 3:14-22). Don't dismiss our Lord's warnings! (John 15:1-6).
[from Truth in Love, Nov. 15, 1987, p. 1]

"WHAT SHALL WE DO?"
(Acts 2:37.)
On the day of Pentecost, seven weeks after Jesus' crucifixion, his select band of apostles were surprisingly emboldened to speak to a great crowd of devout Jewish worshippers in the city of Jerusalem. On that day some remarkable things happened and some astonishing claims were made by those apostles. Acts 2 records that unique event and it continues to promise that (Acts 2:21). That record is still relevant and shows us what we should do to respond to God's invitation to be saved.

Introduction to the apostles' claims:
The Bible purpose: (John 20:31; II Tim. 3:15)
Jesus is the only Saviour for all: (John 14:6)
The apostles are Jesus' personal witnesses: (Acts 1:3, 8)
The apostles' declaration: (Acts 2:32. See also Luke 24:45-48)
Confirmation of the apostles' claims:
1. Apostles were miraculously enabled to speak in foreign languages. (Acts 2:1-12.)
2. The apostles explained the prophecy. (Acts 2:14-21 and Joel 2:28-32.)
3. The apostles reminded people that Jesus did miracles (Acts 2:22.)
Explanation of the apostles' claims:
1. Jesus' crucifixion foretold and fulfilled. (Acts 2:23; Luke 24:26-27, 44-46; Acts 8:32-35; Isa. 53.)
2. Jesus' resurrection foretold and fulfilled: (Acts 2:24-31; Psa. 16:8-11.)
3. Jesus' ascension foretold and fulfilled: (Acts 2:33-34; Psa. 110:1)
Consequences of the apostles' claims:
1. The apostles assured the people that (Acts 2:36).
2. The apostles' account caused many of the people to be convinced and to ask "What shall we do?" (Acts 2:37).
3. The apostle Peter replied...(Acts 2:38.)
4. The terms of God's forgiveness for all time are for all people who respond to his call to be saved (Acts 2:39).
5. (Acts 2:41.)
6. (Acts 2:42.)
7. (Acts 2:47.)

What shall we do? If we ask this question with the same sincerity those first questioners displayed, the Lord invites us to do the same as those responsive people did in order for him to save us and add us to the company of the saved. The New Testament shows that everyone was saved in the same way when the gospel was first proclaimed and the same terms for salvation still apply today.
[from Truth in Love, Jan., 1988, p. 10-12]

Sometimes people tell us that we should not judge the denominations. Usually they have Rom. 14:13 and Matt. 7:1 in mind. However, the passages from which these quotations are taken make different applications of judgement. The passage in Romans refers to differences between brethren on matters of opinion, and the passage in Matthew refers to the attitude of fault finding. These passages do not refer to denominations.

The very existence of denominations is opposed to the will of the Lord (John 17:22-23; Eph. 4:4), and they teach doctrines and engage in practices demonstrably different from the Lord's New Testament (Gal. 1:6; II John 9). Is it right to judge what is taught and done in the name of Jesus Christ? Yes. The Lord commands us to do so. In fact, in Matt. 7:15-27. Thus we are required to judge between false and true teachers by their teachings. Note particularly the approval given to the Bereans for judging whether or not the apostle Paul's teaching was true to the scriptures (Acts 17:11). Note also the Lord's instruction to dissociate ourselves from any who do not "abide in the teaching of Christ" (II John 9-11). Thus judgements of the teachings of others are necessary in order to know whether or not they are true to the scriptures.

It goes without saying that we too should welcome judgement of our teachings and practices. Constant review of what we say and do in the name of Jesus is little price to pay for ensuring our Lord's approval (Gal. 1:6-9).
(I John 4:1.)
[from Truth in Love]

KEEP IT SIMPLE, SAINT!
(I Cor. 2:1.)
When we seek to tell people about Jesus and his good news of love, forgiveness and salvation, we must always try to do so with a KISS (Keep It Simple, Saint).

No one would doubt the pharisee Saul's high intelligence and advanced education in the law but, when he became a Christian and an apostle of Jesus Christ, he considered his previous achievements "a loss compared to the knowledge of Christ" (Phili. 3:8). Although, as the apostle Paul, he sometimes had to write "things that are hard to understand" (II Pet. 3:15-16), yet he always kept "the elementary teachings about Christ" (Heb. 6:1) simple for the understanding of all who heard him.

Reading Paul's messages to the Jews in Pisidian Antioch (Acts 13:16-40) and to the Gentiles in Athens (Acts 17:22-31), we are struck by their directness and relevance to the different backgrounds and specific needs of his hearers. Neither group failed to understand what Paul was telling them. Their reactions were the same prompt acceptance or rejection of Jesus as Saviour so there was no misunderstanding of Paul's message. Let us learn from the apostolic example to Keep It Simple, Saint, when we tell others the wonderful gospel of Jesus.
(I Cor. 1:17-18)
[From Truth in Love, May 29, 1988, p. 1]

THE UNLOVING SPIRIT
(John 14:24.)
Let us examine some of the characteristics of the unloving spirit among the children of Israel in Joshua's day. These are suggested in Josh. 1, and exemplified in the descriptions of Israel's behaviour elsewhere in the books of the Old Testament.
(Heb. 3:18-19)
The parents of the people in Josh. 1 were denied entry into the Promised Land because of their repeated disobedience and unbelief. In this they showed the characteristics of an unloving spirit towards God and among themselves. It was against the recurrence of this unloving spirit that Israel under Joshua was warned and exhorted.

Be strong and very courageous (Josh. 1:7)

Their parents had shown weakness, timidity and fear (Num. 4), and thus displayed inadequate love for God (I John 4:18). Their unloving spirit reflected a lack of trust in God despite the fact that God had said He would bring them into the land He had promised (Exo. 6:6-8).

Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you (Josh. 1:7)

Their parents had been careless and neglectful of God's commands (Exo. 32). They lacked vigilance, and were apathetic and asleep when false teachers arose in their midst. Alert obedience to God's word is the distinctive characteristic of loving service. (John 14:21)

Get your supplies ready...go in and take possession of the land...(Josh. 1:11)

Their parents had been unprepared and unready so that when the twelve spies reported to Moses on the conditions of Canaan, they were easily demoralised and discouraged. They forgot their God.

You are to keep your brothers (Josh. 1:14)

The tribes of Reuben, Gad and Manasseh, had received their land allotments east of the Jordan and were to help their brethren of the other tribes to take the land to the west. Their parents had been uncooperative and disloyal. In this they had been an undisciplined crowd. They had grumbled repeatedly and revealed ingratitude again and again. They had easily forgotten that God saved them individually and collectively from slavery in Egypt. They had been no help to each other on their journey to the land of promise.

Then they answered Joshua, "Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go" (Josh. 1:16)

The Israelites showed confidence and support for the Lord's way through His servant Joshua such as their parents had not shown to Moses. Their parents had left things undone and had failed to go where the Lord had commanded them.
(John 15:12)
In marked contrast to the general behaviour of many of the Israelites under Moses, Joshua showed the characteristics of a loving spirit which Christians would do well to study and develop in their own lives.

Joshua was constant in his faithfulness to God. He was loyal to God's faithful servant, Moses. He never grumbled and never sowed seeds of discontent among his brethren. He was optimistic, always ready and prepared to carry out his Lord's purpose. He was always ready to serve his brethren, always generous, and always encouraged them. He was ever careful to obey God's word and in this he meditated prayerfully day and night. He never allowed the disobedience and unbelief shown by the unloving spirit of others deflect him from his love for and steadfastness to the Lord in service.
(Josh. 24:15, Deut. 6:5-7)
Here is the secret of Joshua's strength and courage. Let it be ours too!
[from the Truth in Love]

JESUS CHRIST SAID:
I am come
- to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10)
- to give life abundantly (John 10:10)
- to do God's will (Heb. 10:7)
- to receive us unto him (John 14:3)
Will you come? (John 6:37)
[from Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ bulletin, Mar. 25, 1990]

THE GREATEST SIN IN THE CHURCH TODAY

A preacher said he was asked, "What is the greatest sin in the church today?" By "greatest" it was meant what seems to be most prevalent, and what seems to be doing the most harm. Of course he was being asked for his opinion, an observation. But before that brother gave his answer I had decided on the same answer.

How would you answer? "What is the greatest sin in the church today?" The greatest sin in the church today is the sin of apathy or better known as lukewarmness. It was apathy at Ephesus (Rev. 2:4) and Laodicea (Rev. 3:15-16) that made God sick. By apathy the devil can accomplish what he is unable to accomplish by either persecution or false teaching (I Pet. 5:8). People who love the truth can answer false teachers (Phili. 1:17). The bitter persecutions of past ages did not stop the church, but apathy can bring it to ruin.

I am not afraid our Sunday or Wednesday night services will be stopped by a government edict, but apathy can make a difference. For example [any church's statistics shows a significant difference in attendance between morning and evening services]. What happened to people? I ask you to examine your heart and see if apathy is gaining the upper hand on you. (Heb. 10:25).

Apathy is a creeping paralysis. It is disguised and deceptive because it is not deliberate and malicious. Those who are guilty usually don't realize it and probably don't care. So please take a close look at yourself (II Cor. 13:5) and see if you are a part of the greatest sin in the church today.
[by Jeff Sweet from Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ bulletin, Mar. 25, 1990]

WHAT KIND OF "CHRISTIAN" ARE YOU?

Some are like wheelbarrows, not good unless pushed. Some are like canoes, they need paddling.  Some are like kites, if a string isn't kept on them they will fly away. Some are like kittens, they are more content when petted.  Some are like footballs, no one can tell which way they will bounce.  Some are like balloons, they are full of wind and ready to explode.  Some are like trailers, they must be pulled along. Some are like neon signs, they keep going on and off. Some are like a "dead" battery, they have no energy or power.  Some are like the weather, they are unstable and changeable.  Some are like the candle under a bushel, they are useless. Some are like the "hitch hiker", they are willing to let you pay the bills.  Some are like salt mixed with sand, they have no saving power.  Some are like little children, they have no sense of responsibility.  Some are like falling leaves, they are carried away with the slightest wind...of doctrine.  Fortunately, many are like the North Star, when you need them they are dependable, ever loyal, and a guide to all.  Some are like the Rock of Gibraltar, they are firm and unmoveable.
[from Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ bulletin, Apr 1, 1990 and Apr. 17, 1994, p. 3]

THANK GOD FOR STRESS

The most dedicated and productive Christians I know live with a great amount of stress. These servants of God know the peace which passes all understanding, but they still live with must stress. These saints have confessed their sin, they have made a personal commitment to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, they accept all of God's infallible word, but they still live under a great deal of stress.

The stress under which a Christian lives is not distress, but rather that profitable stress by which growth, learning, conquering and achieving are possible. Maturing Christians live with the positive stress of always pressing forward, upward and onward toward fuller, greater and more productive adventures in Jesus Christ.

Christian stress is a godly personal goal which never grows dim, is never totally reached, but is excitingly a daily challenge which demands the higher and best of one's energy, prayer, yieldedness and work. Christian stress is a sense of purpose given by Jesus Christ which wakes you up in the morning, motivates you through the day and brings you to your bed tired enough to sleep like a baby.

Too long we have viewed the Christian life as a peaceful stresslessness which never demands anything of us but sitting and waiting for our happy transition from earth to heaven. It wasn't so with Jesus. It wasn't so with the apostles. It hasn't been so with the great saints of history.

Being a Christian is learning to live with God's gift of peace but with the stress and burden of the little individual daily things we can do for Jesus as expressions of deep gratitude for His grace, peace, love and salvation.

Hans Selye is acknowledged to be the world's leading authority on stress. He says, "Contrary to public opinion, we must not-and indeed cannot-avoid stress. We can meet it efficiently and enjoy it by learning more about its mechanism and adjusting our philosophy of life accordingly. To those who are satisfied with a completely unproductive life of self-indulgence, who always drift about aimlessly, not to relax from their main pursuits, but as an ultimate aim in life, I can offer no helpful advice. As far as I can see, many of these pure spectators of life are not really happy; they merely got lost, often as adolescents, because they did not give enough thought to choosing a career and setting a steady course in their lives."

There's an application of what Hans Selye says to our Christian life. If we expect our Christian life to be totally relaxed, never stressful, always quiet, peaceful and calm, we will never know growth, maturity and productivity. It is only through the stressfulness of painfully pushing toward fulfilling His personal purpose that we become the strong, steady, fruitful saints.

The hymn writer said it, "Must I be carried to the skies on flowery beds of ease, While others fought to win the prize and sailed through bloody seas? Sure I must fight if I would reign; increase my courage, Lord; I'll bear the toil, endure the pain, supported by Thy word."

I offer you a challenge. Ask God to lay some stress on you this week. Ask Him to load you up with the fullest measure of positive, productive pressure. When He answers your prayers, handle it with dedicated hard work, grateful for the privilege and joy of thus expressing your love to Him for all His grace to you.
[by Douglas F. Parsons from the Joelton Church of Christ bulletin]

Somebody sent me a little story about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. An important job needed to be done, and Everybody was sure Somebody would do it, Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Everybody got angry about that because it was Somebody's job! Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn't do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done!
[from Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ bulletin]

HIS LOVE
It's amazing and incredible
But it's as true as it can be,
God loves and understands us all,
And that means you and me.
His grace is all sufficient
For both the young and old,
For the lonely and timid,
For the weak and for the bold.
His love holds no exceptions,
So never feel excluded,
No matter who or what you are,
You always are included.
No matter what your past has been,
Trust God to understand,
And no matter what the problem is,
Just place it in His hand.
For in all our gratefulness,
God loves us still,
He's loved us since the world began,
And remember, He always will.
[by Amy Leonard, (age 12) of Lubbock, Tex. from Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ bulletin]

THE ABC'S OF CHRISTIAN BEHAVIOR

Act instead of argue. Build instead of brag. Climb instead of criticize. Dig instead of depreciate. Encourage instead of envy. Fight instead of faint. Give instead of grumble. Help instead of harm. Invite instead of ignore. Join instead of jeer. Kneel instead of kick. Love instead of lampoon. Move instead of mold. Nurture instead of neglect. Obey instead of object. Pray instead of pout. Qualify instead of quit. Rescue instead of ridicule. Shout instead of shrink. Try instead of tremble. Undergird instead of undermine. Vindicate instead of vilify. Witness instead of wilt. Exterminate instead of excuse. Yield instead of yell. Zip instead of zigzag.
[from Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ bulletin]

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Identify my contribution to the problem. Take ownership, use "I" statements instead of "you" statements, and clarify and condense the issues of few words concisely.
Identify alternative solutions - several of them.
Decide on a mutually acceptable solution: steps of implementation, possible outcomes, and implementing new behaviors.
[from Pam and Royce Money at Blue Ridge 1991]

IMPROVING SENDING SKILLS
1. Integrate self with message. In other words make sure the word and body language match
2. Avoid questions that are not questions...rhetorical "Don't you thing that..."
Punishing questions..."Why did you do that?
Hypothetical question
Command questions...When are you going to...?
Screen questions..."what would you like to do" when you really want your own way.
Trap questions..."Is it true that you...?
3. Select specific words and statements that others can understand or appropriate
4. Speak with respect for your listener.
5. Check your message with the listener "What did you hear me say"
[from Pam and Royce Money, Blue Ridge, 1991]

ASSUMPTIONS WITH CONFLICT
1. Conflict is natural and inevitable - Normal. The outcome is a relationship strengthened or weakened involves personal values and needs
Conflict usually emerges as symptoms. The issue is not really the issue.
Most conflict is not dealt with openly because most people are not taught how.
Conflict provides opportunity for growth. Crisis is basically neutral.
Unsatisfied conflict results in greater problems
Types of words: assumptions for definitional differences
generalizations
absolutes
Silence is a major barrier to communication

Styles of conflict	relationship goals	personal goals
1. withdrawal	low response	low response
2. one wins (the one who wins by pushiness)	low response	high response because he got  his way
3. yield	medium response	medium response
4. compromise	medium response	medium response
5.  resolve (both satisfied)	high response	high response

A model to resolve conflict

1.	Recognize the issues. Don't ignore them.
2.	Listen carefully to the other person
3.	Select an appropriate time
4.	Define the conflict - what are you arguing about
	a.	how to define the conflict
	b.	how do you think the other person defines the conflict
	c.	what behaviors contribute to the conflict
	d.	how do other person's behavior contribute to conflict
	e.	What issues do we agree and disagree on

Build a common base. Most often there is much they agree on
Did we neglect this too long?
[from Pam and Royce Money Blue Ridge 1991]

WHEN WE STOP ASKING QUESTIONS

Ever notice how inquisitive children are? They are often little question boxes who want to ask about everything. "What makes it rain?" "How did Spiderman do that?" "Why did my goldfish have to die?" "How long before we get there, daddy?"

Sure it can be annoying and get on your nerves. But things are never boring when there are children around!

It can be terribly boring to be around some adults though. They never ask questions. They hold to a dull routine, ask no questions, and rock no boats. And they have lost the sense of excitement about life that little children show so naturally.

When we stop asking questions, we betray our complacency, settle for mediocrity, and stop growing!

Of course there is a certain danger in asking questions. People who are intellectually dead fear the person who asks questions, for he disturbs their mental slumber. And those who are spiritually dead actively oppose questioners, for they do not want to face the fact that they have so few answers or even admit the existence of questions outside their dull list which no one other than themselves bothers to ask any more.

The joy of asking questions far outweighs any risks involved. All of a sudden one rises out of a rut and looks around on a larger world than he has seen in a while. There is challenge and meaning to life again. The search for truth is so much more wholesome than the putrid atmosphere of dogmatism. All of a sudden, one begins to experience a strange but exhilarating feeling in his or her spiritual life - growth!

When we dare to ask life's meaningful questions, we leave boredom and emptiness behind, begin reaching for lofty goals again, and know the thrill of spiritual enrichment!

The enemies of our faith chide us for being closed-minded and pride themselves on asking "relevant" questions about the human condition. Some of us give their charge credibility. We circle the same stumps, raise the same tired issues, and chant the same memorized responses in unison. The world passes by, hears nothing of importance being said, and simply ignores us.

Jesus said his disciples should be as little children. I wonder what traits he could have had in mind?
[by Rubel Shelly from Ashwood Leaves]

THE OFFENCE OF CHRIST
(Matt. 11:6)
The story of Jesus Christ could not have been invented by the Jews (they considered him "offensive"), nor by the Gentiles (they regarded him as "foolish"), nor by his disciples (he did not match the preconceptions of the prophesied "Messiah").

Unto the Greeks foolishness (I Cor. 1:23)
The Greeks seek wisdom (I Cor. 1:22)

The Greek philosophers' ideal was "the wise man" - noble, magnanimous, great, dignified. But Jesus disappointed them.

Factors of offence:
1. Jesus' attitude to others.
Greeks expected wise men to seek honour & fame (Sophocles). Jesus said...(John 5:41)
Greeks disdained honour from ordinary people (Aristotle). Jesus gladly received homage from them (Matt. 26:7-13)
Greeks showed disdain and dignity on trial (Socrates). Jesus showed silence and submission (Matt. 27:12-14)

2. Jesus' bearing under stress
Greeks dominated or ignored the world (Stoics). Jesus, when tired, sat down (John 4:6), when hungry, he ate (Matt. 21:18ff), when thirsty, he asked for water from a Samaritan woman (John 4:7)
Greeks concealed feelings of grief (Epictetus). Jesus wept openly at other's grief (John 11:23).

Greeks said live and die gloriously (Sophocles). Jesus was troubled by approaching death (John 12:27).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 44, Nov. 10, 1991, p. 9]

THE OFFENCE OF CHRIST
(Matt. 11:6)
The story of Jesus...prophesied "Messiah" {as in above article}
1. "A stumbling block to the Jews"
(I Cor. 1:23)
The Jews were expecting the Messiah (John 7:31; John 7:41). But Jesus disappointed them.
Factors of offence
1. He was GREATER than they expected
The Jews expected Messiah to be a man; but Jesus equated himself with God (John 10:33; John 14:23; Matt. 13:41).
The Jews believed only God could forgive sins; but Jesus claimed this right (Matt. 9:2-3).
The Jews venerated Abraham and Moses; but Jesus elevated himself above them (John 8:53; John 6:32; John 6:41).
The Jews regarded the temple as sacred; but Jesus declared himself to be greater (Matt. 12:6).
2. He was LESS than they expected
The Jews expected the Messiah to be of royal origin; but Jesus came from a despised locality (John 1:46; John 7:41; John 7:52).
The Jews expected the Messiah to be assertive; but Jesus did not match their hopes (Matt. 26:52ff).
The Jews expected the Messiah to overthrow their enemies; but Jesus taught otherwise (Matt. 22:21).
The Jews expected the Messiah to prove himself by a sign from heaven; but Jesus declined (Matt. 12:38-42).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 43, Nov. 3, 1991, p. 9]

THE OFFENCE OF CHRIST
(Matt. 11:6)
The story of Jesus Christ...prophesied "Messiah"] {as above}
3. An offence to his disciples
(John 6:60-61)
His birthplace offended (John 7:41; John 7:52)
His humility offended (John 13:6)
His tolerance offended, when his disciples said:
re. Canaanite woman - "send her away" (Matt. 15:22-28)
to Blind man - "Be quiet" (Luke 18:35-43)
to Mothers of children - "Take them away!" (Mark 10:13-16)
His compassion offended, when his disciples wanted:
Samaritan village consumed by fire (Luke 9:54)
High priest's servant smitten with sword (Luke 22:49-51)
He offended John the Baptist
John expected Jesus to reap (Matt. 3:11-12)
Instead, Jesus came to sow (Matt. 13:3ff)
Hence, John's doubts (Matt. 11:2-6)
He offended Judas Iscariot
People wanted to force Jesus to be king (John 6:15)
Many disciples disillusioned (John 6:66)
Judas decided to betray him (John 6:71)
Afterward, Jesus' apostles understood. They came to understand that the Christ fulfilled obscure Old Testament references and they realised why he seemed offensive. They could not have invented the Christ from those references. Beforehand, they had been expecting a conquering King, not a suffering Servant! (John 12:16; Luke 24:26-27).
[from the Truth in Love, no. 45, Nov. 17, 1991, p. 9]

THE STRESSES OF LIFE

Oliver Cromwell is said to have instructed the artist painting his portrait to "paint me warts and all!"

This candid representation of both attractive and disfiguring features is also well-shown in the characters of the Bible. They are not depicted like some larger-than-life gods of mythology, but as people with whom we can readily identify.

Over the thousands of years the Bible stories accumulated, and since, there is little change in the way men and women respond to the stresses in life. The kind of object or situation bringing about emotional stress may be different for different times, but the stress felt, the resultant anxiety, and the ways of coping with it, are familiar to all.

When we are exposed to any threat to ourselves, whether physical or psychological, and whether from within ourselves or from outside, we usually respond by feeling anxious. Anxiety is a normal alerting device which makes us take appropriate action to reduce the threat, and so recover a relatively anxiety-free state again.

Some people experience an excessive, persistent, and distressingly "painful" level of anxiety. This may be out of proportion to the real threat, but consistent with their perception of the imagined threat.

When Jesus said "do not worry" (Matt. 6:25-34), and when Paul wrote "do not be anxious" (Phili. 4:6), we are not being told that worry and anxiety are unnatural, abnormal or sinful. What is referred to are the misplaced and misdirected worry and anxiety, the preoccupation with non-essentials, and the faulty ordering or priorities in our lives. (I Sam. 16:7).

PHYSICAL DIFFERENCES

People differ from one another and are recognised by a variety of physical characteristics. In simple terms, such features as height, body build, skin texture and colour, facial shape, hair and eyes, are determined partly by heredity (genetics), partly by environment (nurture before and after birth), and partly by individual internal factors. Thus a person grows, for example, to become a tall adult as a result of the combination of parental genes for tallness, a continuous well-balanced diet (partly by parental and partly by personal selection), and freedom from serious disease or injury during the growing period of life. To complicate matters there may be unusual and unknown factors to produce the unexpected.

PERSONALITY DIFFERENCES

In a somewhat similar way, people differ from one another and are recognised by a variety of personality traits. These traits affect the way we relate with each other and the way we cope with life. Like physical features, the personality traits are determined by heredity, developmental nurture (family and environmental influences), and by individual factors such as intelligence, physique and temperament. Again, unexpected factors can alter the course of development.

The descriptions of the thought and behaviour of some of the people of the Bible give us fascinating insights into their personalities. Sometimes we can see something of ourselves in what these people of long ago displayed. The important reason for preserving these Bible character sketches for us is that God wants us to learn from them and apply the lessons learned in our own lives. It also helps us understand other people and learn how to relate to them in a constructive way.

Take some examples at random:

Cain chose to do evil (I John 3:12), and became angry when God would not accept his offering (Gen. 4:5). In jealous rage, he murdered his good brother (Gen. 4:8).

Noah steadfastly chose to do good (Gen. 6:9), despite the prevalent evil and violence of the people of his day (Gen. 6:5-11). He was obedient to God's will (Gen. 6:22; Gen. 7:5). Yet Noah had his moment of weakness and became drunk (Gen. 9:21). This lapse allowed one of his sons, Ham, to take indecent advantage of Noah. Ham's brothers, on the other hand, preserved correct decorum and decency (Gen. 9:22-24). To suggest that the incident appears trivial is to miss the point of this brief account, because it really reveals the underlying attitudes of mind of the men concerned. Another important point is that the three sons, raised by righteous Noah and having witnessed God's punishment on the evil world by flood, did not all lead impeccable lives. Example and training do not always produce expected results - other factors may alter the course of development.

Peter, when a seasoned apostle of Christ, continued to reveal the personality characteristics he possessed earlier in his life. Thus, becoming a Christian does not mean there will be a change in the individual's basic personality. It is important to understand this so that we are not lulled into a false idea that we cannot behave again as we did before conversion.

Peter had many fine qualities and he comes through as an appealing and admirable person. However, he tends to show inconsistencies in his behaviour. Sometimes he was courageous and adventurous, if impetuous (Matt. 14:28-31; John 20:2-6; John 21:7). Sometimes he was afraid and cowardly (Matt. 26:69-75). Later, Peter showed courage and boldness in the face of his accusers and judges (Acts 4:8-20), but showed fear and hypocrisy by discriminating against Gentile brethren and consorting only with fellow-Jews in the church on a later occasion (Gal. 2:11-14). Being an apostle did not change Peter, or any of the other apostles, to superhuman or supernatural beings.

A former Australian prime minister, Malcolm Fraser, once said "Life wasn't meant to be easy!" This is a fact (Heb. 12:5-13) which too many Christians try to evade to their continuing hurt. The only way to succeed in life is to face reality and learn the self-discipline needed for true contentment (Phili. 4:11-13).
(I Pet. 2:20)
QUESTIONS
1. To what external and internal stresses did Cain react by killing his brother Abel? (Gen. 4:1-9; Heb. 11:4; I John 3:12)
2. Discuss alternative ways Cain might have responded. (Give scripture references for alternatives, e.g. Rom. 13:10)
3. How can we apply these lessons to good effect in our lives? (Consider the contrast of flesh and spirit in Gal. 5:14-25)
4. What should we learn from Noah's lapse to help us? (See Gen. 9:21; Prov. 20:1; Lam. 4:21; I Thes. 5:22; Rom. 14:21; I Pet. 5:8-9)
5. In what way was Ham subjected to stress? Why did he act the way he did? Why did his brothers behave differently? (See. Gen. 9:22-24; Lev. 18:7; Hab. 2:15-16; Prov. 4:14-15)
6. Discuss good and bad influences on the development and growth of children. How can Christian parents best help their children to choose the ways of God? (Titus 2:4b; Prov. 22:6; Prov. 29:17; Eph. 6:4; Deut. 4:10; II Tim. 3:14-15)
7. Find all the references to "Peter" in the New Testament and study these. List the facets of his personality displayed. (a few examples: Matt. 14:28; Matt. 15:15-16; Matt. 16:22; Matt. 17:4; Matt. 19:27; Matt. 26:75; John 6:68-69; Acts 4:19-20; Gal. 2:11-14)
8. Discuss how Peter's life is shown "warts and all". What help did he get to live this new life? How did he use such help? (See. Matt. 16:16-19; Mark 16:7; John 21:15-22; II Pet. 1:1-3)
9. What lessons can we apply in our own Christian development from the example of Peter?
[from The Truth in Love, no. 37, Sept. 22, 1991, p. 2-3, 12-13]

THE STRESSES OF LIFE

Sometimes we think it is exceptionally hard for us to live in this modern age. Such descriptions as "rat-race", "suburban neurosis", "generation gap" and "culture shock" suggest stresses from competition in business, from isolation at home, from misunderstandings between young and old, and from migration to another country or sudden dramatic changes in one's own country. These are some examples of familiar stresses of life, and there are many others.

However, people throughout history have had to cope with similar stresses. Perhaps the rate of change in former societies was not as bewildering as it seems to us in our own society today, but their ways of resolving the anxieties aroused were not much different from our own in essence.

Consider some ways people respond to various threats and stresses:
(i) There may be a feeling of uneasiness, apprehension, or vague fear in the face of possible physical danger.
(ii) Another expression of anxiety is the worry of insecurity in our relationship with other people.
(iii) Or we may become anxious and feel guilty about our actual behaviour if it conflicts with an accepted code or standard.

It is not unusual for us to experience combinations of these, e.g., we may feel guilty because we have wronged someone else as a result of jealousy (a form of interpersonal insecurity), and then fear that there may be reprisals.

In simple terms, we may adopt any of three ways of coping with a real or imagined threat to ourselves:
1. "fight" (i.e., confront, hit back, overcome it)
2. "flight" (i.e., avoid or run away from it), and
3. "faint" (i.e., stand still, do nothing).

Any of these may be, in fact, the appropriate action to take under the particular circumstances. The choice may be dependent on our basic personality, temperament, training and experiences.

Consider some Bible examples to illustrate these principles:

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1.	Why did Moses become "afraid" after rescuing his Hebrew brethren by killing the cruel Egyptian taskmaster? (Exo. 2:11-15)
2.	What action did Moses take as a result?
3.	Why was King Saul "afraid" of David? (I Sam. 18. Note verses 12, 14-15, 28-29)
4.	What action did Saul take as a result?
5.	Why was King David "afraid" of the Lord after Uzzah's death for toughing the ark of God? (II Sam. 6:1-10. Cf. Exo. 25:14-15; Num. 4:15)
6.	What action did David take as a result?
7.	When Queen Jezebel threatened the prophet Elijah's life, he became "afraid". Why?
8.	How did this affect Elijah and how did he recover?
9.	Why did Peter become "afraid" when he walked on the water towards Jesus? (Matt. 14:22-33)
10.	How did the people cope with their "fear" when they saw the healed man who had been demon-possessed? (Mark 5:1-20)
11.	How did Jesus' disciples respond to the stress of his arrest in the garden of Gethsemane?
	(a)	Peter (Matt. 26:51. Cf. John 18:10)
	(b)	The Others (Matt. 26:56)
12.	Why were the disciples behind closed doors when Jesus appeared to them following his resurrection? (John 20:19) What did he first say to them?
13.	When the Jewish rulers threatened the apostles Peter and John for preaching about Jesus, how did they respond? (Acts 4:1-31)
14.	What made the change in Peter and John? (Acts 10:38-42).
15.	How did the apostle Paul cope with stresses and threats? (II Cor. 11:23-33, see also II Cor. 12:9-10, Phili. 4:6ff)
16.	What is God's remedy for the Christian who is subjected to persecution for the faith? (See I Pet. 4:12-19; Heb. 12)
17.	What can we learn from the examples given to help us cope with stress?
18.	What general principles did Jesus give to help us counter the usual worries of life? (Matt. 6:25-34)

[from the Truth in Love, no. 38, Sept. 29, 1991, p. 2-3, 12-13]

THE STRESSES OF LIFE

Behavioural scientists have attempted to analyze human behaviour and, although they have devised a technical jargon to describe it, we can recognise what has been observed by perceptive people since ancient times.

For example, such terms as "id", "ego", and "superego" appear frequently in technical literature, and in the conversation of many. These described parts of our mental make-up are roughly equivalent to the unconscious, instinctive and primitive urges (the id), the largely conscious self or "I" (the ego), and the conscience (the superego).

We are born with mainly id impulses demanding immediate gratification of our basic urges. As we grow up, we develop a sense of self (ego) and a conscience (Superego). Our "self" is subjected to constant conflict between the primitive urges seeking impulsive and direct action, and the controlling and modifying influence of the conscience. For example, if I feel a need to have a particular thing, my primitive urge is just to take it. But my conscience (depending on how it has been trained) will tend to veto this urge if it involves theft. Thus a psychic stress is set up within me, and how I cope with the stress will be discussed in a future article.

As an infant, my basic urge is to eat and I may make my desire for immediate gratification of that urge noisily and insistently known until this need is met. Later in life, I learn to control my desire to satisfy hunger pangs if it is not appropriate or possible to eat straight away. After puberty, the sexual urge becomes strong but, again, I need to learn to control its expression and behave responsibly. As a Christian, I must exercise the urge according to the will of God revealed in his word.

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION

1.	How did the apostle Paul describe the inner conflict he experienced as a Christian? (Rom. 7:14-25)
2.	What divine instruction, if followed, will help us? (Gal. 5:16-25)
3.	Conscience is not a reliable guide to God's will for us. (Compare Acts 23:1; Acts 26:9-11 with I Tim. 1:13; Phili. 3:4-6)
4.	What is the only foundation for a "good conscience"? (I Tim. 1:5)
5.	If we fail to "keep...a good conscience" (I Tim. 1:19), what danger do we face?
6.	In what state is the new Christian's conscience likely to be? What is the responsibility of the mature Christian? (see I Cor. 8)
7.	What is the states of conscience of the unbeliever and of the hypocrite? (Titus 1:10-16)
8.	What will "cleanse our conscience"? (Heb. 9:14. Cf Acts 15:9; Heb. 10:22)
9.	Consider the following Bible examples of responses to internal stresses:
	(a)	Why was Jacob uneasy when he heard that his brother Esau and four hundred men were approaching his camp? (Gen. 32:6-11. Cf Gen. 27:41). What happened when they met? (Gen. 33)
	(b)	What caused Joseph to refuse seduction by Potiphar's wife? (Gen. 39:9)
	(c)	Why did King David write Psa. 51? (II Sam. 12:1-14)
	(d)	Why did Daniel refrain from eating the Babylonian king's fare? (Dan. 1:8. See Lev. 11)
	(e)	Why did Nehemiah choose to act differently from the former governors of Judah? (Neh. 5:15)
	(f)	Why was Herod the tetrarch troubled about the news of Jesus (Luke 9:7-9)
	(g)	Why did Peter weep bitterly after denying Jesus? (Matt. 26:69-75 Cf Matt. 26:33-35)
	(h)	Why did Judas hang himself? (Matt. 27:1-5)
	(i)	When the apostle Peter accused the Jews of putting Jesus to death (Acts 2:22ff), what was their reaction? (v. 37)
	(j)	Why did Peter and John refuse to comply with the Jewish Council's order to stop preaching Jesus' name? (Acts 4:19-20; Acts 5:29)
	(k)	What has happened to the conscience of a false teacher? (I Tim. 4:1-2)
	(l)	Why is nothing pure to the minds of those who are spiritually defiled and unbelieving? (Titus 1:15-16, Cf. Rom. 1:21-25)
	(m)	What should we learn from these examples for the proper training of our consciences? (Eph. 4:17-Eph. 5:17)

[from The Truth in Love, no. 39, Oct. 6, 1991, p. 2-3, 12-13]

THE STRESSES OF LIFE

Under ordinary circumstances, we are all exposed to various negative stresses in daily life which tend to threaten our "self", and we usually make adjustments to lessen the threats and so reduce anxiety. Psychoanalytic theory calls these techniques of adjustment "defence mechanisms". That is, we use these techniques or mechanisms to defend our "self" or "ego" against painful stressful reactions.

These defence mechanisms are given such technical terms as "repression", "reaction formation", "isolation", "displacement", "projection", "introjection", "denial". and so on. Some illustrations will explain these terms and you will recognize them from your own experience.

DENIAL

We drive our cars without much anxiety (most of the time!) because we deny the possibility of being involved in an accident, despite the high incidence of accidents on our roads. Mothers may say to children who have fallen and hurt themselves, "there, there, it doesn't hurt any more", thus using denial to alleviate their own anxiety. Denial is a form of self-deception.

When the Lord said to Cain, "Where is Abel your brother?" Cain replied, "I do not know. Am I my brother's keeper?" (Gen. 4:9). Here Cain tried to alleviate his anxiety both by falsehood ("I do not know") and by denial ("Am I my brother's keeper?").

Instead of denying reality we cannot change, learn to accept it (Matt. 6:25-34).

PROJECTION

This is another form of self-deception. I may have a particular unpleasant trait in my personality make-up which, when I am aware of it, causes me anxiety. For example, I may be obstinate and rigid in my views and attitude on certain topics. Another person has this same trait, so I project my unpleasant trait on to that person by calling him a "bigot" and I refer to myself as "cautious". Thus, by comparison, I am made to appear better than he, and I am relieved of my anxiety about myself!

Diotrephes (III John 9-10) is one example of a man who projected his unpleasant trait onto others, accusing the apostle John and his companions and expelling those he considered troublesome from the local church.

Instead of projecting our faults onto others, learn to modify them (Matt. 7:1-5).

REACTION FORMATION

A person with a strong aggressive streak may over-compensate by developing exaggerated meekness and politeness. A person with a severe feeling of inferiority may become arrogant and assertive. Someone with an inordinate interest in sex may appear to oppose pornography by appointment as a censor of literature, thus giving himself ample opportunity to view examples of pornography. Someone who is sadistic towards animals may support an anti-vivisection crusade, thus having opportunity to gratify their own interest in cruelty to animals while being socially-approved. (However, not all crusaders take up a cause as a result of "reaction formation"! Wrongs do need to be righted but, sometimes, others join in for less than altruistic motives.)

Belshazzar, king of Babylon, is described as normally arrogant and irreverent (Dan. 5:22-23). When God caused the handwriting to appear on the wall of the king's banquet hall, "the king's face grew pale, and his thoughts alarmed him" (Dan. 5:6). Belshazzar demonstrated reaction formation in his anxiety, and he became unusually polite and deferential to Daniel when he was brought in to interpret the writing on the wall.

Instead of deceiving ourselves through reaction formation, learn to be honest with ourselves and seek God's help to change (Matt. 6:1-18).

REPRESSION

Unpleasant experiences may be repressed by actively forgetting them, or keeping them out of consciousness and recollection. Sometimes this may be manifest in another way. For example, an adult may have an intense fear of closed spaces (claustrophobia) originating from being terrified as a child locked in a small room with feared spiders (arachnidophobia). The memory of this may have been repressed and forgotten.

Joseph's older brothers had repressed their memory of the evil done to Joseph when they sold him into slavery in his youth (Gen. 37). Many years later, when they were brought face to face with Joseph, now a ruler in Egypt, their guilt over-whelmed them. When their father Jacob died, they were terrified that Joseph would not take his revenge on them (Gen. 50:15).

Instead of repressing unpleasant experiences, learn to face them directly and so overcome them (Matt. 5:21-30).

DISPLACEMENT

If my boss bawls me out, my immediate reaction may be to retaliate, but I curb myself because I fear the consequences. I then displace my anxiety by choosing a safer target for my anger, e.g. kicking the cat, or shouting at my wife as soon as I get home.

Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea, realised that Jesus was innocent of wrong-doing worthy of punishment and tried to release him (John 19). But when the Jewish leaders alleged that he was acting as "no friend of Caesar" (John 19:12) by offering to release "one who makes himself out to be a king opposed to Caesar", Pilate became terrified of falling out of favour with Caesar. So he displaced his anxiety by relenting and sending the harmless Jesus to be crucified (John 19:16).

Instead of displacing our feelings, learn to discharge them disarmingly at the time (Matt. 5:38-48).

These are examples of some of the many defence mechanisms we usually apply in response to stresses from within ourselves or from without. Some of them are more constructive than others in reducing anxiety, but misuse of them may lead to various nervous disorders.

SCRIPTURAL APPLICATIONS

Read carefully Jesus "sermons on the mount" in Matt. 5-7. Observe his great counsel on more effective ways to cope with external and internal sources of stress. See again, the implied "defence mechanisms" dealt with in Jesus' lessons. Notice how we can make right our relationship with God and our fellow-human beings, and so be at peace within ourselves.

(Matt. 7:24-29)

Questions for discussion: What practical applications can we learn from Jesus' directions in the following passages: Matt. 6:25-34; Matt. 7:1-5; Matt. 6:1-18; Matt. 5:21-30; Matt. 5:38-48.
[from the Truth in Love, no. 40, Oct. 13, 1991, p. 2-3, 12-13]

NOTHING BUT THE BIBLE...GOD'S WORD TO MANKIND
(Rom. 1:16)
It is not surprising that most people are ashamed of the gospel, God's word to mankind. It has an unlikely author, a carpenter who was crucified. It was spread abroad by uneducated peasants. And the majority of those who believed it were poor and insignificant. It was no way to impress mankind with God's word.

A better way to get people's attention, some may think, was the option that Jesus dismissed when he was arrested. (Matt. 26:53). Now that would have attracted a lot of attention and respect. Jesus' reason for refusing to do this is out of this world! (Matt. 26:54). That's right. Six hundred years before, for example, the prophet Isaiah had foretold that Jesus would be "led like a lamb to the slaughter" (Isa. 53:7). And the real power of God in Jesus made this possible. That's why this gospel of Jesus is the "power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes". Someone who could so control current events that they fulfilled what was foretold possesses real power. No wonder the apostle Paul was "not ashamed of the gospel".
[from The Truth in Love]

AUTHORITY

In politics authority is given by vote. Religious authority comes by recognizing and establishing the authority of God. Knowing and following the proper authority. To follow the wrong religious authority is the end of the world for you...you will languish in hell. It is absolutely crucial to make the right decisions in this life.

Our authority is the New Testament. The standard we go by. The New Testament is a particular kind of authority. (Isa. 44:6.) Delegated authority to Christ. (Matt. 17; Matt. 28.) Jesus delegated authority to the apostles. (II Cor. 10:8.) The apostles also delegated authority. They had inspiration and laid hands on others for spiritual gifts. What is written down by inspiration. (II Thes. 2:15.) The New Testament is the only source of apostolic authority for today. (I Cor. 14:37; I Thes. 4:8.) To reject the Bible is rejecting God - not man.

The New Testament is absolutely perfect. (James 1:25, I Cor. 13:10). Authored by God. God is perfect, therefore the New Testament is perfect. The consequences of a perfect New Testament is:
1. Cannot change or improve it without spoiling it. (Rev. 22:18-19.)
2. That which is perfect is the best for the job. (John 16:13, II Tim. 3:16-17, II Pet. 1:3)

The challenges which face us are enormous. But when we consider that one life saved for Christ is worth all the efforts, all the heartbreak, all the trials that make our task difficult, then we cheerfully take up these challenges.
[by Batsell Barrett Baxter]

Who does God's work will get God's pay,
However long may seem the day,
However weary be the way,
He does not pay as others pay,
In gold or land or raiment gay,
In goods that perish and decay,
But God's highest wisdom knows the way:
And that is sure, let come what may,
Who does God's work will get God's pay.

IF
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give away to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breathe a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: 'Hold on!'
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with Kings - nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And - which is more - you'll be a Man, my son!
[by Rudyard Kipling]

I asked Jesus, "How much do you love me?" "This much", he answered, and he stretched out his arms and died.

Work is one of the solutions to church problems because a working church does not have time to be a fussing church.
[from Sycamore Sunbeam]

EIGHT WAYS TO HAVE A WINNING DAY

1. Believe that something fantastic will happen today.
2. Practice saying something good about everyone you meet.
3. Take advantage of every honorable opportunity.
4. Practice and believe in prayer-power.
5. Have a positive outlook on life.
6. Remember that you can't please everybody.
7. Saturate your mind with positive thoughts.
8. Practice giving yourself away; give to others.
[from Sycamore Sunbeam]

In matters of faith, unity; in matters of opinion, liberty; in all things, charity.
[from Sycamore Sunbeam]

COUNSEL FOR THE DEFENCE

When discussing the word of God with others, remember the principles given in I Pet. 3:15.
1. Be sure Christ is given first place (Col. 1:18); don't rely on human wisdom (I Cor. 1:20)
2. Be convinced of His presence (Gal. 2:20); don't fear men's arguments (Rom. 1:21-22).
3. Be set apart for His purpose (Heb. 13:15-16); don't compromise with the world (I John 2:15).
4. Be constantly studying God's word (II Tim. 2:15); don't be seduced by false teaching (Eph. 4:14).
5. Be ready to teach the one saving message (I Tim. 4:16); don't think it needs updating (Rom. 1:16).
6. Be available to teach (Col. 4:5-6); don't deter the earnest seeker (Acts 17:11).
7. Be steadfast in the hope (Col. 1:23; don't waver (Heb. 10:23).
8. Be gentle and considerate (Titus 3:2); don't be rude and quarrelsome (II Tim. 2:14).
9. Be reverent to God in everything (Heb. 12:28); don't betray Him (Heb. 6:4-6).
[from The Truth in Love]

GOING AMONG OUR NEIGHBORS

This Church is going among people in our immediate neighborhood. It is a get-acquainted, image-building, and friendship-promoting gesture. We are not going among them to get anything; we are going to give something.

We are going to give compassion to our neighbors. Abraham Lincoln once said, "I am sorry for the man who can't feel the whip when it is layed on another man's back." Compassion refers to one's ability "to feel with" other people.

As healthy people, we will try to feel with some of our neighbors who are confined to their houses because of sickness. As young people, we will try to feel with some who are old and unable to move with agility. As older people, some of us will try to remember how it feels to have the fears, doubts, and temptations of youth. We will try to feel with our neighbors who are mentally retarded, lonely, poor, and spiritually lost.

We are going to give assistance to our neighbors. We have already helped some unemployed people in this neighborhood get jobs. We have put food on the tables of a few families who would have had nothing to eat that night. We have brought several to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. There is no bragging about what "we" have done here; it is simply gratitude for the opportunity to help and letting you know what you can help do.

We have no sympathy with "Be ye warmed and filled" as a brush-off to people. We try to become involved in the lives of people with needs and help meet them.

We are going to give Christ to our neighbors. Isn't that what compassion and help add up to? Would Jesus build a church building and hide in it in Nashville? Or would he go out to find people who could benefit from his presence? To ask such a question is to answer it. We must be doing what Christ would do here, if we are to be his spiritual body.

When Jesus was among men, he appears not to have buttonholed everyone in sight with the question "Are you saved?" He took the initiative to serve their needs and to offer them salvation in the attractive context of his loving ministry.

Have you help with Good Neighbor Day before? There is something for everyone to do. There are doors to be knocked. There is office work to be done. There is lunch to be prepared. There is clean-up work around the building.

God is opening doors to us in this neighborhood. He is allowing us to be his representatives to serve and minister to these people. We must not forget why we are here, and we cannot fail to be about the most important work in the world.
[by Rubel Shelly in Ashwood leaves]

The Jewish historian, Josephus, said that when a Jewish child was five years old, he started to read the Bible. At the age of ten, he learned the Mishna. At thirteen, he was bound to the commandments. At fifteen he was to study the Talmud. When the child was fifteen years old, he had memorized the book of Deuteronomy. Josephus wrote, "From the earliest consciousness, they learned the laws so as to have them written upon their souls." I wonder how our children would "match-up" with these pre-Christian children?
[from Sycamore Sunbeam]

QUALIFIED COMPLAINERS, LICENSE TO COMPLAIN

This certifies that the bearer is properly qualified to complain about the activities and concerns of this congregation, having completed the following terms:
1. Attended all regular and special meetings.
2. Prays daily for the church and her leaders.
3. All their children take part in all activities provided for them by this congregation.
4. Always volunteers and accepts enthusiastically jobs and offices in programs of the church.
5. Visits regularly to help the saved as well as the lost.
6. Gives as God has prospered.

This licence is freely given to all who wish it, since anyone who qualifies for it will have little time to complain.
[from Del City, Okla. church bulletin]

COFFEE AND OTHER WRONG IDEAS

Drinking coffee may sound harmless to you and me, but coffee has had a dark past. Some thought it was a sin, a crime, a poison. It has been used as a means of executing murderers. King Gustav III of Sweden ordered that a convicted murderer be given large quantities of coffee daily. The Swedish officials expected this to cause him to die a terrible death.

But something strange happened. The judge who ordered the sentence died. Other government officials involved in the sentence died. And the king was assassinated at a fancy ball. The "coffee drinking murderer outlived them all." But I'm not sure how much sleep he got, or if he ever learned to like coffee.

God has brought us into His kingdom to reach the world. We are to be like yeast and affect people wherever we are (Matt. 13:33). Some ideas we have followed to accomplish this have been like sentencing a man to death via coffee drinking, they have not worked. If we are serious about taking the gospel to all the world maybe we need to re-examine some of these.

1. Negative preaching will win people. We should have known that's not on target because the gospel is "good news." A negative, critical spirit does not draw people to Christ, it repels them. Some have tried to align negativism with "sound doctrine." Recently, brother Ira North died. He was the preacher for the largest church in our brotherhood. No one ever accused him of being "weak" on sound doctrine. He always had a positive message of hope, love, and grace (His favorite songs were: Amazing Grace and Never Grow Old). His positive spirit and preaching showed how to build a great church and still be sound doctrinally.

2. Making the church for saints, not the sinners. Animal breeders call this "in breeding." To produce healthy animals new blood must be brought in regularly. We are stifled in many places by second and third generation Christians. The lethargy of Rev. 3 has hit us. What brings us strength, encouragement, and new life is when excited new Christians are brought into the family on a regular basis. We must be reaching out to the lost. If we don't bring them in, who will? We must not be satisfied with our "lovely little group" and neglect reaching out to the lost.

People have made mistakes about coffee, and other things too.
[by Dick Marcear from Sycamore Sunbeam]

TEN LITTLE CHRISTIANS

Ten little Christians came to church all the time;
One fell out with the preacher - then there were nine.
Nine little Christians stayed up late;
One overslept on Sunday - then there were eight.
Eight little Christians on their way to heaven;
One took the low road - then there were seven.
Seven little Christians, chirping like chicks;
One didn't like the singing - then there were six.
Six little Christians seemed very much alive;
One took a vacation - then there were five.
Five little Christians puffing from Heaven's shore;
One took a rest awhile - then there were four.
Four little Christians each busy as a bee;
One got his feelings hurt - then there were three.
Three little Christians steady and true;
One couldn't have his way - then there were two.
Two little Christians, each won one more;
Now don't you see - two and two makes four.
Four little Christians working early and late;
Each brought one - now there were eight.
Eight little Christians, if they doubled as before;
In just even Sundays, we'd have one thousand, twenty-four.
In this little jingle there is a lesson true...
You belong either to the BUILDING or the WRECKING CREW.
[from Sycamore Sunbeam]

THE MASTER LEADS

In our N.Z. environment of relativistic ecumenical religious thought, dogmatism is said to be unchristian. How true is this? Would Christ agree with this? Its time to look at His life to see how he related to His contemporaries on the basic questions facing us today.

1. The authority of scripture. When Satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread, his response came...(Luke 4:4). In the same context, when Satan misused scripture to set forth truth, Jesus used scripture (Luke 4:9-12), Jesus contended with the word of God.

2. The say of salvation. Jesus make it very clear from His teachings that His mission was of mercy (John 3:14-15, John 6:38-51) and a logical outcome of God's promises in scripture (Matt. 5:17-18; Matt. 26:56). The benefits of His righteous life and redemptive death are only granted to those who obey Him. (Mark 16:15-16; Heb. 5:8-9). He contended forcefully with the Pharisees who did not see Him as the Messiah, and who wished to trust their traditions and self-made righteousness, for life. (Matt. 23:2, 36; Matt. 16:6-12)

3. Worship to God. Whereas the religious contemporaries of Jesus had apparently degraded worship to external rituals and geographical location (Matt. 15:7-9; John 4:20). Jesus' call was for worship to emulate from the scripture controlled heart of man. (John 4:21-24; John 17:17; John 8:31-32) Traditions and opinions were openly condemned when they came into conflict with the plain teachings of God's word.

Our master was a loving, but uncompromising dogmatist. They gave Him the cross because He would not shut up (John 11:47-50). People will crucify you in their minds today as you stand on God's word. But, still the Master leads...
[by Rod Kyle from Capital letters, Wellington]

ASHAMED TO ASK THE KING

In Ezra 8:22 we read one of the most enchanting statements in the Old Testament! The noble scribe, Ezra, lamented the fact that some of God's people looked more to earthly rulers for help than to Almighty God whom they claimed to follow! Many times our trust is also misplaced. However, when we forget that the Lord will see us through any problem, we preach a poor sermon before the world. (Heb. 13:6; Matt. 6:33). Ezra was ashamed to ask the Persian ruler for help when trouble came instead of turning to God for needed strength.

We have a beautiful promise in Psa. 124:8 and Psa. 91:15. What a marvelous thing it would be always to have the bold confidence of the three friends of Daniel, who, in spite of the danger of the fiery furnace - calmly stated, (Dan. 3:17). And one of the most dramatic verses in the Bible is Deut. 33:27 in which Moses exclaimed....

The psalmist made it clear that from youth to old age the righteous would not be forsaken nor bereft of necessary sustenance. (Psa. 37:25) We are informed by the Lord that God provides our daily bread (Matt. 6:11) and (I Pet. 5:7), Indeed, Paul told the Philippians that (Phili. 4:19). This is a powerful insurance policy, divinely arranged, by the Ruler of the universe.

It is sad to observe many professed Christians in these modern days who act like their only help and hope is to be found in the machinery of our earthy governments! When we, who claim to serve the Lord, whine and worry over mundane matters, we ought to recall Ezra 8:22. We ought to be ashamed to seek consolation from secular pursuits when the Sovereign God is available to assist us. In the last paragraph of Rom. 8:37-39, the apostle informs us that NOTHING shall be able to separate us from the love of God. When members of the church murmur and complain and worry and fret just as the heathen do, we lose our impact of influence upon the world. We ought to be ashamed to rely upon the same source of help that the world does. Let us believe what we sing in the wonderful song: I came to Jesus as I was, Weary and worn and sad. I found in him a resting place, And he has made me glad.
[by Johnny Ramsey from Central Auckland Church of Christ bulletin]

WHICH WAY WILL YOU VIEW IT?

There are two views prevalent concerning Bible authority. One believes that whatever is done in religion must be authorised by command, statement, inference, example, or by some revealed means, otherwise it has no authority and is unauthorised. The other feels that whatever is not specifically forbidden, in some way by revelation, automatically is authorised.

This has been mans attitude toward authority all through the ages. It has brought him untold agony and suffering. Saul the first king, offered a burnt offering to the Lord without the authority to do so (I Sam. 13:11-14). The kingdom was taken from him because he acted foolishly. Again Saul was commanded (authorised) by God to destroy the Amelekites and spare neither man, woman, child, oxen, camel, sheep nor donkeys. Saul sought to save the best to offer as sacrifice for God. He attempted to do that which God had not authorised. He paid a terrible price. (I Sam. 15)

King Uzziah sought to offer incense in the house of the Lord without being authorised to do so. God smote him with leprosy all the days of his life. (II Chron. 26). A great man became a miserable failure because he sought to do that which he desired, not according to God's authority. The New Testament teaches these same great truths, (I Cor. 4:6, Rev. 22:18-19) May God help all of us to be so warned.

If any man does that he desires which is not specifically forbidden, he relegates to himself the very power of God. No man, group of men, organisation or institution has the right to make themselves equal with God. He alone is God...All authority is inherent with him. All else is delegated. Without a "Thus saith the Lord..." we are adrift of the bleakness sea of the unknown and shall be dashed to pieces on the shoals of presumption.

May God help us all to receive the word of the message, as it is in truth, "The Word of God." I Thes. 2:13
[by Rod Kyle from Capital letters, Wellington]

A NAME OF BEING ALIVE

It is possible for us to think that we are right, but be wrong. (Prov. 14:12). This possibility must never be ignored, nor must it make us timid.

This fact helps to establish the life posture which God requires, and in which we must function in order to be pleasing to God. We have not been given go-ahead permission to do just whatever we wish to do to draw crowds of people, or get huge sums of money, or to do anything else.

We will be tempted to plan and work on the basis of "will it work"? rather than to the God-given basis, "Does God approve?" We are also inclined to do what we want to do, and this is often determined by what others are doing. Of course, God does not approve this standard. Oftentimes we are more interested in quantitative rather than qualitative accomplishments. With this, we seem quite skillful in justifying whatever we may wish to do. There is much too much interest in producing the results which satisfy human desires, and not enough concern about making sure that the results are what God desires.

In Old Testament times, the people were not doing what the Lord wanted done; and he spoke to them of the futility of their efforts. (Hag. 1:5-6)

Today God is just as particular about what is taught and practiced. We get his message from such instruction as: (II Cor. 13:5)

God has limited the teaching and action which he approves. (I Thes. 5:21) This instruction is sobering enough to help us be properly concerned with being sure that we are not substituting artificial and humanistic thoughts and ways for God's thoughts and ways. This limitation will not prevent our doing any of the things which God wants done.

Here is another God-given law. We are forbidden to run rough-shod over the conscientious persons who may, with good reason, oppose what we wish to do. Even when their reasons are not justified, there is a Christian principle that may restrain us until there is more teaching and clarification. One fact is clear, God is not pleased unless we, in our association in the church, develop and maintain the God-approved consideration for each other. In the area of judgment and opinion, love for one another must be the ultimate control of our behaviour. This does not mean that the objectors will control the church.

We must also remember that opposition may be justified, that saying "no" may be biblically correct. This does not advocate the viewpoint that those who object just for the sake of objecting should be placated, but neither should they be treated as outcasts.

The peace and harmony of the church are of more value to God and to us than some of the totally humanistic notions, programs and schemes which are sometimes pushed to the extent of destroying spiritual qualities, and some congregations are destroyed by this pushing.

We are not right with God just because we are busy, and are building expensive buildings, and using the humanly devised techniques of promotion and people manipulation. God makes all of this very clear.

There is a lesson for us in Christ's evaluation of the Sardis church. "Thou hast a name that you live, and are dead." (Rev. 3:1) With the present-day influence of humanism and materialism, it is easy to make the same mistake. The high percentage of uninformed people make it very easy to do this. Let us continue to be interested in quantitative growth, but never at the expense of qualitative spiritual growth.
[by Bob Wear from Enduring Words, vol. 3, no. 6, June, 1984]

WHEN YOU ARE OLD

Amongst the effects of a little old lady who died in hospital in Scotland was found a poem which so touched the hearts of the staff, that copies were made and distributed to every nurse in the hospital.

When one of the nurses moved to another hospital, she took her copy with her and the poem - the only bequest to posterity made by the little old lady - has since appeared in several hospital publications, including the New Zealand Nursing Journal for Dec. 1973. Now here reproduced.

THE CRABBY OLD WOMAN

What do you see nurses, what do you see?
Are you thinking when you are looking at me...
A crabby old woman, not very wise.
Uncertain of habit, with far away eyes.
Who dribbles her food and makes no reply...
When you say in a loud voice "I do wish you'd try"
Who seems not to notice the things that you do.
And forever is losing a stocking or shoe.
Who unresisting or not, lets you do as you will,
with bathing and feeding the long day to fill.
Is that what you are thinking, is that what you see?
Then open your eyes nurse, you're not looking at me.
I'll tell you who I am as I sit here so still,
as I use at your bidding, as I eat at your will.
I'm a small child of ten with father and mother,
brothers and sisters who love one another.
A young girl of sixteen with wings on her feet,
dreaming that soon now a lover she'll meet.
A bride soon at twenty - my heart gives a leap,
remembering the vows that I promised to keep.
At twenty-five now I have young of my own,
who need me to build a secure happy home.
A woman of thirty, my young now grow fast,
bound to each other with ties that should last.
At forty, my young sons have grown and gone,
but my man's beside me to see I don't mourn.
At fifty once more the babies play around my knees,
again we know children, my loved one and me.
Dark days are upon me, my husband is dead,
I look at the future and shudder with dread.
For my young are all rearing young of their own,
and I think of the years and the love I have known.
I'm an old woman now and nature is cruel -
tis her jest to make old age look like a fool.
The body is crumbled, grace and vigour depart,
there is now stone where I once had a heart.
But inside this old carcase a young girl still dwells,
and now and again my battered heart swells.
I remember the joys, I remember the pain,
and I'm loving and living life over again.
I think of the years all too few - gone too fast,
and accept the stark fact, that nothing can last.
So open your eyes nurses, open and see.
Not a crabby old woman...look closer, see me.
[from Christchurch bulletin]

THE CHRISTIAN MAN IN THE WORLD

One of the major differences between a non-Christian man and a Christian man is that while both experience warm affection for some people and some things naturally (the Greek term "phileo"), only the Christian knows he must practise caring concern for the welfare of others, without regard for his own natural feelings. This is what the Greek term "agape" means. This is the term translated LOVE so frequently in the New Testament.

Noting the difference in a person before and after becoming a Christian. Now let us see what the Bible expects of the Christian man in the world, so far as "agape" is concerned.

Consider the practical applications of the following scriptures: Matt. 5:43-46; Luke 10:25-37; Rom. 12:9; Rom. 13:8-14; I Cor. 13:1-8; I Cor. 16:13-14; II Cor. 5:14ff; Eph. 5:1-20; I John 2:15-17

Note, particularly, how the Christian man should show caring concern for the welfare of non-Christians, at work and in social and other contacts. Jesus told the story of the Judgement, recorded in Matt. 25:31-46, so that each Christian may judge themselves now!
(II Cor. 5:10)
[from The Truth in Love]

The Jews were unable to formulate a valid charge against Jesus, and though men have continued from that day to this to examine closely into his life, the verdict rendered by Pilate, "I find no fault in him," has never been, nor never will be, reversed.

Choosing good, moral, and upright associates pays a large dividend.

Those who seek the best are sought by the good.

There will always be those who claim the right to share the flowers while denying any obligation to plant the seeds from which they grow.

THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE WORD

The unique feature of a faithful church of Christ, as it is described in hi New Testament, is its reverence for the Word of God.

This is understandable because Jesus himself is "the Word of God" (Rev. 19:13; John 1:1). The reason for this is that Jesus was the visible and audible expression of God on earth.
(John 1:14, 18)
Even Jesus' apostles had some difficulty grasping this fact at first. When Jesus told them...(John 14:6), Philip asked Jesus to show them the Father (John 14:8). Jesus replied, (John 14:10). Thus we can see the supreme importance of knowing Jesus' word, for it is the Father's word.

This is why Jesus emphasised the hearing and obeying of his word...(John 12:48; John 14:21).

At the end of his mission on earth, and before returning to the Father in heaven, Jesus commissioned his apostles to teach those who believed and were baptised to "obey everything I have commanded you" (Matt. 28:20). From reading the New Testament, we know the apostles did as they were required by their Lord. We know, too, that the early Christians "Devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching" (i.e., "the word", as in Acts 8:4) and to the fellowship (Acts 2:42).
(Heb. 1:1-2; Heb. 2:3)
The apostles were led by the Holy Spirit to tell and record the word they heard (John 14:26; John 15:26-27; John 16:13-14; John 17:17-20). Hence the apostle John wrote...(I John 1:1-3). Here is the fellowship of the Word in which each church of Christ should be the visible demonstration. It is composed of people who have chosen to devote themselves to Christ, the Word. No wonder, too, that the apostle Paul prayed on behalf of the elders of Christ's church at Ephesus...(Acts 20:32).

It is comforting to know that the whole Bible is the Word of God in the person of Jesus Christ himself as the apostle Peter wrote, in the context of our salvation...(I Pet. 1:10-12). Note that the Holy Spirit working with Christ inspired the prophets and the apostles to give us God's word.

The only fellowship the church should be is the fellowship of the Word, because "Christ is all, and is in all" (Col. 3:11). This is why Christians are urged to...(Col. 3:15). O, the richness and the blessing of the true fellowship of the Word, but how sad that it is so rare! May it be said of the fellowship where we are that it is indeed a fellowship of the Word.
[from The Truth in Love, no. 4, Feb. 3, 1991, p. 10-11]

WITH HIM...SENT TO PREACH
(Mark 3:14)
It is very significant that Jesus wanted his followers to be "with him" in order that they might be "sent to preach".

If we can prayerfully mediate on those who were inspired in the presence of Jesus, and if we can imagine ourselves in their place, may we too be "with him" and be fired with a renewed desire to be "sent to preach" his message of love and salvation.

Consider some examples: Luke 8:26-39; John 4:5-42; Luke 24:13-36; Mark 16:14-20

Think of other examples from the gospels and you will be blessed.
[from The Truth in Love, no. 5, Feb. 10, 1991, p. 1]

WHEN YOU COME TOGETHER AS A CHURCH
(I Cor. 11:18-26)
The apostle Paul had to take the brethren in Corinth to task for having misused the times when they came together as a church to observe the Lord's Supper and turned it into a common feast. Then he told them what the real purpose for the Supper was and how Christians ought to observe it. But there are some things we can note about Paul's directions to Christians. We must "come together as a church" to partake in "the Lord's Supper" for the purpose of proclaiming "the Lord's death until he comes". It is not something done outside the church.

It is a commonly-heard statement that one can be a christian without being in the church. This statement reveals an ignorance of God's estimation of the importance of the church revealed in his word. Consider some Bible facts about Christs's church:

Important to God
The church is part of his eternal purpose (Eph. 3:10-11)
God made his Son head of his church (Eph. 1:20-22)

Important to Christ
He gave himself for the church (Acts 20:28)
He identifies with the church (Eph. 1:22-23)
He made the church the place of reconciliation (Eph. 2:11-16)

Important to the Holy Spirit
The church is the Holy Spirit's dwelling place (Eph. 2:17-22)

Important to Christians
We are fellow-members of Christ's body (Eph. 3:1-6)
We are all part of one body, Christ's church (Eph. 4:4)
The church is the place of service (Eph. 4:12-16)

Important for Non-Christians
Christ is the Saviour of the church (Eph. 5:23-26)
We are all baptized into Christ's body (I Cor. 12:13, 17)
We must believe and be baptized into Christ (Gal. 3:26-29)
[from The Truth in Love, no. 5, Feb. 10, 1991, p. 6]

BETTER IS
(Prov. 17:1)
No matter how well off you are, in this world - no matter how much wealth and possessions you have - there is no guarantee that you are going to be contented.
(I Tim. 6:9; James 5:1-3)
The Christian, though, can be contented even without these worldly things.
(Phili. 4:11-13)
If God is for you, nothing else matters; if God is against you, nothing else can make up for it.
(Eccl. 4:6; Matt. 11:28)
(Prov. 15:16-17)
[from Truth and Love, no. 6, Feb. 17, 1991, p. 1]

CARING FOR OTHERS: LOVE IS BEING PATIENT

What does it mean to be patient? It means that we are willing to wait for something, rather than lose our temper and want it straight away.

Many times in the Bible we are told that God is patient with us. God is willing to wait for us to do what he has told us, even though we ought to do it straight away.
(II Pet. 3:9)
The Bible gives us some examples of being patient...James 5:7.

A farmer doesn't sow seed and then stand by to watch it grow straight away! He is willing to wait for it to grow slowly.

Think of some times when we ought to be willing to wait -
(a) You are sitting with your family at the dinner table. Are you willing to wait till others have their turn, or do you demand to be served first?
(b) You are playing with others in the schoolground. Are you willing to wait your turn in the game, or do you insist on having a go before others?
(c) You are at home with your brothers and sisters. Are you willing to wait your turn to use the bathroom, or do you get in first?

Think of the times when you could try to be willing to wait.
[from The Truth in Love, no. 6, Feb. 17, 1991, p. 7]

It is not what we eat, but what we digest, that makes us strong; not what we gain, but what we save, that makes us rich; not what we said, but what we remember, that makes us learned; and not what we profess, but what we practice, that makes us Christians.

Teach me that 60 minutes make an hour, 16 ounces a pound, and 100 cents a dollar. Help me to live so that I can lie down at night with a clear conscience and unhaunted by the faces of those to whom I may have brought pain. Grant that I may earn my meal ticket on the square, and in earning it I may do unto others as I would have them do unto me. Deafen me to the tingle of tainted money. Blind me to the faults of other fellows and reveal to me my own. Guide me so that each night when I look across the table at my wife, who has been a blessing to me, I have nothing to conceal. Keep me young enough to laugh with children and sympathetic so as to be considerate of old age. And comes the day of darkening shadows make the ceremony short and the epitaph simple: "Here lies a man."

Enemies are sometimes helpful to us by driving us closer to God for protection and comfort.

100 years from now, what difference will it make whether you
1. Live in a mansion or rented room?
2. Wore tailor-made clothes or budget floor bargains?
3. Vacationed in Florida or your own yard?
4. Ate steak, or a pot of beans?
5. Slept in a mahogany bed or a cot?
6. Had a million dollars or nothing at all?
But it will make a big eternal difference whether you were a saved or lost soul. Think on this!!

I CAN WHIP ANY TWO OF YOU

Twenty years ago I took a Dale Carnegie course. I still remember the first round of speeches. One guy, an oil field worker, was about 6'5" tall and must have weighted 240 pounds. When he tried to speak his chin and jaws quivered uncontrollably. For a while he stood speechless. Then he said, "I ain't gonna lie to you, I'm scared. And," he added, "I don't know why I'm scared, I can whip any two of you in the room." He didn't have any takers, either.

Know what? He was a tremendous worker, doing his job in the oil patch better than anyone. I don't think he would have been effective at the bargaining table, but he was better at his job than the company negotiators would have been.

That's the way it is in the church, too. I just read of a man who worked in the Caribbean with a religious radio station. His job was to climb 500 feet up the side of the radio transmitting tower to inspect the giant antennas. He told a missionary that the hardest thing in the world for him was to speak before a group. When he tried his legs turned to jelly. Personally, I'd rather speak before 5,000 people than climb 500 feet up the side of that tower.

One of the most generous men I've ever known recently told me that giving was all he could do. He said he couldn't preach, and couldn't talk with people.

Isn't it exciting that God has given us a variety of talents? They're all needed in proclaiming the gospel - whether climbing, speaking or giving.
[by Joe R. Barnett from Sycamore Chapel bulletin]

Blessed is he who has learned to admire but not envy, to follow but not imitate, to praise but not flatter, and to lead but not manipulate.
[from Savannah, Georgia Church of Christ bulletin]

If wisdom's ways you wisely seek
five things observe with care -
of whom you speak, to whom you speak,
and how, and when and where!
[from Savannah, Georgia Church of Christ bulletin]

CHRISTIAN MORALS AND THE LACK OF THEM IN THE WORLD

II Tim. 3:1-5 tells of the moral problems we can expect to see in the last days. All this we see about us today.

James 1:27 tells us that we must prevent ourselves from being polluted by the world and have pure religion. I Pet. 2:9 also tells us that we have as Christians been called out of the darkness and into the light. As Christians we are in the world but not part of it.

Eph. 5:1-10 tells us that in order to not be part of the world we must be imitators of God. Thanksgiving and not evilness should be in our lives.

Morals in our society are at a low ebb, due to lack of knowledge. People are being taught 3 r's but not the 5 r's. Reading, writing, arithmetic, and right and wrong. Young Christians are often confused about "right" and "wrong" because society's way and God's way are so different. We can not justify any sins.

We as Christians must be shining lights to the world and therefore need to know God's "rights" and "wrongs". We do this by looking to Jesus. (Heb. 12:1-2.)
[by David Woodrow from The Outreach, 10 March, 1991]

Don't be a faultfinding grouch; when you feel like finding fault with somebody or something stop for a moment and think; there is very apt to be something wrong within yourself. Don't permit yourself to show temper, and always remember that when you are in the right you can afford to keep your temper, and when you are in the wrong you cannot afford to lose it.
[by J.J. Reynolds from The Outreach, 24 Feb. 1991]

A USEFUL VESSEL

It's not what we keep but what we share,
Not what we have but what we spare,
Not what we clasp but what we lose,
Not what we hide but what we use.
A vessel he will make of you,
If small or great, 'twill surely do -
Great joy and peace will always fill
The one who's yielded to his will.
[from The Outreach, 30 Jan. 1991]

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