GOD IS NOT THE AUTHOR OF CONFUSION

Which one is right? Morality enough or Faith in Christ. Many ways or One way, Christ. Faith only or Obedient faith. Baptism essential or Baptism commanded. Church of choice or The Lord's church.

(I Cor. 14:33). There is such confusion in the religious world today, but God is not the author of it! People are offered a multiple choice selection of church, of faiths, of ways to be saved, of ways to worship, etc. And it is little wonder that many are confused by the babble. But the chaos results from many trying to guide themselves, instead of allowing God to chart the course...(Jer. 10:23). People today are charting their own paths in religion, as seems reasonable to them, but...(Prov. 14:12). Thus, more than confusion results from self-guidance!

The apostle Paul wrote in II Tim. 3:16-17.... Again...(James 1:21). God guides by His word, the Scriptures. And if we would avoid confusion, we must look to Him for the answers. Which One is Right? Man's answers will confuse, but...(I Cor. 1:25). Let us go to His word for the answers.

Morality enough or Faith in Christ

Nearly every day we get letters from guiltridden folk who seem to think they must "do good" in order to balance against the evil they have done. But will a good moral life atone for sins already committed? (Isa. 64:6, Rom. 3:10; Rom. 3:23). But what if one could keep the will of God perfectly, would he deserve salvation? Let Christ answer...(Luke 17:10). Even if one could obey the Lord perfectly, from this moment on, it would not atone for even one sin already committed! Our works, even works of obedience, cannot be the basis for our salvation.

But...(John 3:16). That is why we read in Eph. 2:8-9.... We must be "saved by grace through faith," or be lost! Christ died on the cross, shedding His blood for our sins. And no matter how "good" one may live, he cannot be saved without Christ. (Rom. 3:23-25). That is the reason Jesus said...(John 8:24). Many today declare, "But I live a good life, and I don't think God will condemn me for that." And they fail to realize that all their "goodness" cannot take away one sin: only the blood of Christ can do that. Morality is not enough.

Many ways or One way, Christ

Are there really "different ways that go to heaven," as some teach? How many "ways" does God reveal? Moses was God's spokesman (Num. 12:1-9), but jealousy prompted Aaron and Miriam to say, "Hath the Lord indeed spoken only by Moses?" Man often seeks "another way" than the one God reveals. Jesus used the words of God as recorded by Isaiah to apply to the people of His day...(Matt. 15:9). The teachings of men will always lead into different ways.

How can I come to God? How can you? The Lord Jesus answers in John 14:6.... Now, that is plain. There is no "way" to God except "the way" which is Jesus Christ! That is the reason the apostles said to unbelieving Jews in Acts 4:12.... There is no choice given: we must come to God through His Son, or we will be lost.

Faith only or Obedient faith

The teaching that the sinner is "saved by faith only" is in the official creed books of many different churches. But to say that we are saved "by faith" is not the same as saying we are saved "by faith only". God declares in Eph. 2:8.... Again in Rom. 5:1-2.... There can be no question that we must be saved by faith, or be lost. But what kind of faith saves, and when? (James 2:14-24). A dead faith cannot save, but God declares that faith is dead without obedience. In the listing of the great "heroes of faith" (Heb. 11), each one is blessed for his faith only when faith obeyed! Not at "the point of faith", but when faith led one to do what God said. It is still true.

The apostle Paul wrote the Roman letter as a treatise on "justification by faith". And he introduced it with the stated purpose...(Rom. 1:5), and closed it with...(Rom. 16:26). To people of His day who evidently believed in "faith only", Jesus cried: "Why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things that I say?" Would He say differently today? He is still...(Heb. 5:9). And He declares that it is by our "obedience to the truth" that we purify our souls (I Pet. 1:22). God blesses obedient faith, but there is not a blessing promised in all of God's word for "faith only".

Baptism unessential or Baptism required

A man told me recently, "I believe in John 3:16, I don't believe in water." His reasoning was that everything God required for salvation was found in that one verse! But if that is so, why was the rest of the Bible written?! I have heard debaters argue that the absence of baptism in John 3:16 proves it is not necessary. If that is true, then the absence of faith in Acts 2:38 also proves faith is not necessary! The fact is that we must take ALL of God's word to learn His truth. The question, then, is simple: "Does the Lord require baptism?" And the answer is from the lips of Jesus...(Mark 16:16). Now, simple as that is, it still confounds theologians who (in opposition to it) try to uphold "faith only".

When the apostles went forth preaching the gospel of Christ, the pattern was always the same. (Acts 2:38-41; Acts 8:12; Acts 10:48; Acts 22:16). These people, because they believed in Jesus Christ, were baptized. Why? Because He said it!! It was, and is, that simple. Paul writes later that we are...(Rom. 6:3). If (as God says) when we are baptized we are united with Christ and His death, then how can one be saved by His death while rejecting being baptized into His death?! The Lord commanded baptism, and His promise is still valid for today...(Mark 16:16). God is not the author of confusion. Let us accept His teaching on it.

Church of choice or The Lord's church

We hear many today say, "Join the church of your choice." Is that God's plan, or was it devised by man? Jesus prayed in John 17:20-21.... The system of denominationalism stands in direct opposition to that prayer! The Lord wants all believers to be one, even as He and the Father are one. (Eph. 4:4-6). That is His teaching, His plan, His plea. While men exalt many churches, offering a "choice" of faiths, etc., Jesus still pleads with us to be united. When the Lord found division (much like denominations of today) in Corinth, the apostle was instructed to write...(I Cor. 1:10-13). Such division was wrong then. It is wrong today.

Jesus promised...(Matt. 16:18). Is it too much to ask that people be members of that church? Jesus...(Acts 20:28); is it reasonable that He expect people to be in that church? When people were baptized as He directed (Acts 2:38-41), we read...(Acts 2:47). When the Lord adds those He saves to His church, is it too much to expect them to remain in it?! He offers no choice of churches: He built one, He purchased one with His blood, He adds the saved to one church. Paul writes later in Col. 1:18.... And in Eph. 4:4.... In Eph. 5:22-33 the church is pictured as the bride of Christ. God is not the author of confusion. He didn't build 300 churches, He built one; He doesn't add people to 300 churches, He adds them to one. The Lord doesn't have 300 brides, He has one! Rather than "church of your choice," He wants you to be part of the "church of the Lord's choice."

It is still true that...(Jer. 10:23). If we would please God, we must accept His direction for our lives. He doesn't confuse us, His teaching is simple. Read carefully in God's word, find what people did 1900 years to please God. Do what they did, and you will be what they were: Christians saved by the blood of Christ, members of the Lord's church.
[by Clem Thurman from Gospel Minutes, vol. 28, no. 36, Sept. 7, 1979, p. 1-3]

THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT AND THE CIVIL STATE (the civil state)
Character and nature of the civil government

Precepts applied to civil procedures

Matt. 4:8-10; Luke 3:10-14; Matt. 5:38-42; Luke 6:27-28; Matt. 26:51-52; Luke 22:35-38; John 18:36; Mark 12:13-17; Mark 12:28-31; Matt. 10:23; John 8:3-11; Rom. 13:1-7; II Cor. 10:3-4; James 2:8-12; James 4:1-2; Isa. 2:2-5

Fallacy of pacifism
Inconsistency of non-resistance
God's law on capital punishment
Conscientious patriot - go tell that fox - from the congressional record
[By Foy Wallace]

RICHES AND HOWARD HUGHES

A few months ago one of the world's richest men died. This bit of history may interest you. The grandfather of Howard Hughes was a member of the church of Christ. In fact, he was a preacher. His name was William B. Gano (1854-1913) who lived in Dallas, Texas and worshipped with the old Pearl and Bryan Street church. William B. Gano had a daughter whose name was Allene. She married Howard R. Hughes, Sr. in 1904 and in 1905 Howard R. Hughes, Jr. was born. He became rich with goods and is remembered as a rich man. His grandfather is remembered as a servant of the Lord. How do you want to be remembered?

A woman complained to her marriage counsellor about her husband's selfishness. "When he won a trip for two to Hawaii, he went twice."

A life makes a pretty worthless package if it is all wrapped up in itself.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, July 11, 1993, p. 3]

WHAT IS SUCCESS?
To laugh often and much;
To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children;
To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends;
To appreciate beauty;
To find the best in others;
To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;
To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived;
This is to have succeeded.
[by Ralph Waldo Emerson]

The closer you walk to the shepherd, the further away you are from the wolves.

Sin will take you farther than you ever wanted to go, keep you longer than you ever wanted to stay, and cost you more than you ever wanted to pay.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, July 18, 1993, p. 3]

He that never changes his opinion, and never corrects his mistakes will never be wiser on tomorrow than he is today.
[from Sycamore Chapel Bulletin, 19 Sept., 1993, p. 3 and July 31, 1994, p. 3]

DO I HAVE TO ATTEND BIBLE CLASS?

Asking this question reveals a deep lack of interest in spiritual things. It says that the things of God do not come first in day-to-day life. The attitude which tries to "just get by" or "just do the minimum" is laid bare by this question. Could such a question not reveal a desire to walk with both God and Satan?
Consider good reasons to attend Bible class:
1) It helps you put God's kingdom first.
2) It helps you gain knowledge about God.
3) It helps you possess the mind of Christ.
4) It helps you to influence others for good.
5) It helps others to influence you for good.
6) It provides fellowship with other Christians.
7) It strenthens your faith in Jesus as Lord.
8) It provides nutrition (food) for your soul.
9) It helps you obey God's command to know His will.
10) It helps you be a better guide to your family.
11) It helps you to be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks a reason for your faith.
12) It helps you to prepare for the judgement.

Attend Bible class; it can make an eternal difference in your life!
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Sept. 5, 1993, p. 3]

Fret is the little darkroom where negatives are developed.

A sharp tongue and a dull mind are usually found in the same head.

A man convinced against his will, is of the same opinion still.

Life is hard by the yard; by the inch it's a cinch.

Stop looking at the world through woes-colored glasses.

Don't pull tomorrow's clouds over today's sunshine.

Hem your day with prayer; it is less likely to ravel.

The Pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity, the optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.

I wish I were what I was when I wanted to be what I am now.

When your head doesn't work, your feet have to.

Develop a gratitude attitude.

If you think you're green, you're growing; if you think you're ripe, you're rotten.

Don't talk unless you can improve the silence.

Wisdom is hardly understood in a few minutes and also rarely learned in a lifetime.

Small deeds done are greater than great deeds planned.

The fact that silence is golden may explain why there is so little of it.

There's nothing wrong with today's teenagers that 20 years won't cure.

Worry is interest paid in advance for a debt you may never owe.

Most of the shadows of this life are caused by standing in our own sunshine.

Money will buy a fine dog, but only love will make its tail wag.

Say the best, think the rest.

Only when we walk in the dark do we see the stars.

Education should be used not to get rich, but to enrich others.

Life is a song; love is the music.

Personality is what you are when you are with other people; character is what you are when you are alone.

I would rather make my name than inherit it.

When you help someone up a hill, you find yourself closer to the top.

Happiness walks on busy feet.

When you're in a jam, a good friend will bring you bread and peanut butter.

Take time to dream; it hitches the soul to the stars.

Life was simpler back when anyone who could tie a square knot could repair a clothes dryer.

Some people are like blotters - they soak it all in but get it backwards.

The pebble flows with the stream; the rock holds its ground and makes the stream go around it.

Anger is the wind that blows out the light of the brain.

Laughter is a tranquilizer with no side effects.

I'd rather walk with a man than jog with a walkman.

Blowing out someone else's candle does not make yours shine any brighter.

If we could have half our wishes, chances are we'd double our troubles.

We grow a little every time we do not take advantage of somebody's weakness.

Too many people spend their time like it wasn't worth anything - and their money like it was.

Why is it that, the fewer the facts, the stronger the opinion?

A gem cannot be polished without friction, nor a person perfected without trials.

Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle.

The greatest ability is dependability.

It's what you learn after you know it all that counts.

To learn what money is worth, try to borrow some.

Wrinkles are hereditary. Parents get them from their children.

The older a man gets, the farther he had to walk to school as a boy.

If you scatter thorns, don't go barefoot.

Being right occasionally is not enough. A stopped clock is right twice a day.

The dollar doesn't go very far these days, but what it lacks in distance it makes up for in speed.

Humility is a strange thing - when you think you've gained it, you've lost it.

A government expert is one who can complicate simplicity.

Swallowing angry words is a lot easier than having to eat them.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 30, 1997, p. 3]

Experience is truly the best teacher. And one of its lessons is that you'll never finish your education.

A budget offers a way to go broke methodically.

When people tell you he got rich through hard work, ask them whose?

What makes life worth living is giving and forgiving.

People who wrestle with their consciences usually go for two falls out of three.

You can't be hurt by the words you don't say.

The purpose of education is to replace an empty mind with an open one.

A temper is a valuable thing. Spend it, but don't lose it.

No one wants to steal your troubles. No one can steal your good deeds.

There's nothing wrong with starting at the bottom - unless you're learning to swim.

Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time.

The problem with having leisure time is how to keep other people from using it.

An old-timer is a man who's had a lot of interesting experiences - some of them true.

If at first you don't succeed, think how many people you've made happy.

Giving is a joy: We should think, what can I share, not what can I spare.

If it wasn't for the hot water the teakettle wouldn't sing.

Honey catches more flies than vinegar.

If a man has enough horse sense to treat his wife like a thoroughbred, she will never turn into an old nag.

We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.

What you are doing is not work unless you'd rather be doing something else.

Things turn out the best for those who make the best of the way things turn out.

Your adversity is your opportunity to help others.

When it comes to eating, you can sometimes help yourself more by helping yourself less.

I'm no longer young enough to know everything.

A pessimist is someone who complains about the noise when opportunity knocks.

Always tell the truth and you won't have to remember what you say.

When flat on your back, the only place to look is up.

When you are right, no one remembers. When you are wrong, no one forgets.

Buy what thou has no need for and soon thou will sell thy necessities.

Always put off until tomorrow what you shouldn't do at all.
[by Morris Mandel in The Jewish Press]

Every minute you are angry, you lose 60 seconds of happiness.

You know you're old when you've lost all your marvels.

Anyone can count the seeds in an apple, but only God can count the apples in a seed.

Success comes in cans - I can, you can, we can - not in cannots.

When one will not, two cannot quarrel.
[by Ray Comfort over Radio Rhema]

The young look forward, the old look back.  The middle aged just look in amazement.
[Radio Rhema]

There are two ways a man can learn - one by experience, the other by expense.

After a field is plowed, then comes the harrowing details.

Age is only a matter of mind; if you don't mind, it doesn't matter.

Give nothing of yourself to others, and eventually very little of yourself will be worth having.

Nothing enters the brain through the open mouth.

Happiness isn't getting what you want; it's wanting what you have.

Never regret growing old, many are denied the privilege.

Don't find fault, find a remedy.

The world has too many cranks and not enough self-starters.

If you never stick your neck out, you'll never get your head above the crowd.

You are never fully dressed until you wear a smile.

Don't be pushed by your problems, be led by your dreams.

The only safe and sure way to destroy your enemy is to make him your friend.

The only thing wrong with doing nothing is that you never know when you are finished.

Advice is free until you put it into use. Then it may prove costly.

Failure is the line of least persistence.

Cheer up - birds have bills, too, but they keep on singing.

When God buries the hatchet, He doesn't leave the handle above the ground.

When you flee temptation, make sure you don't leave a forwarding address.

One does not make friends. One recognizes them.

Rust ruins more tools than overuse does.

Experience is what you've got when you're too old to get a job.

Today's deeds will be tomorrow's history.

How beautiful a day can be when kindness touches it.

A good neighbor will double the value of your property.

The same hammer that shatters the glass also forges the steel.

Nothing should be prized more highly than the value of each day.

Do not expect others to do for you what God has given you the ability to do for yourself.

Resentment must be uprooted if forgiveness is to flower.

Continue to do something. Eventually, everything that needs to be done will get done.

Treasure is not always a friend, but a friend is always a treasure.

Each birthday will be a gift of time, and growing old will be a gift of life.

We need old friends to help us grow old and new friends to help us stay young.

It is better to get laugh wrinkles than worry warts.

A good life is like a good watch; open face, busy hands, pure as crystal and full of good works.

The butterfly counts not months but moments and has time enough.

Horse sense is what keeps horses from betting on people.

Faith, in many ways, is like a wheelbarrow. You have to put some real push behind it.

Flattery is like chewing gum - enjoy it, but don't swallow it.

There are not shortcuts to any place worth going.

If you find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn't lead anywhere.

Children are the living messages we send to a time we will not see.

If you want your dreams to come true, don't oversleep.

I am an optimist. There doesn't seem to be too much use in being anything else.

You can't keep trouble from coming, but you needn't give it a chair to sit on.

Think big thoughts but relish small pleasures.

Today people are afraid of simple words like goodness, mercy and kindness...they don't believe in the good old words because they don't believe in the good old values anymore.

Don't expect God to use you as a lighthouse somewhere else if He can't use you as a candle where you are.

This would be a wonderful world if people showed as much patience in all things as they do in waiting for a fish to bite.

Your mind can hold only one thought at a time. Make it a positive and contructive one.

You will always remember you forgot to take out the trash when the garbage truck is two doors away.

Bring up a child in the way he should go...and go that way yourself.

The best time to try and change someone is when they're still a baby...and then frequently.

Don't miss the magic of the moment by focusing on what's to come.

Judge your success by the degree that you're enjoying peace, health and love.

People are funny - everyone wants to live a long time, but no one wants to get old.

Humor is to life what shock absorbers are to automobiles.

Lord, fill my mouth with worthwhile stuff
and nudge me when I've said enough.

True happiness comes from the knowledge that we are of some use in this world.

The riches that are in the heart cannot be stolen.

Don't give anyone a piece of your mind - you need it all yourself.

Don't waste time learning the "tricks of the trade"; instead learn the trade.

By the time you decide to look for greener pastures, you're too old to climb the fence.

Live so that when your children think of fairness, caring and integrity, they think of you.

A man is never too busy to talk about how busy he is.

Gratitude is the heart's memory.

Life is just one long vacation to people who love their work.

Try to be satisfied with your lot, even if you don't have a lot.

With all the honey a honeybee brings, it still doesn't sweeten its sting.

Instead of using the words "if only", try substituting the words "next time".

It's not how far you fall, but how high you bounce.

It matters not what you are thought to be, but what you are.

Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently.

Not what we have, but what we enjoy, constitutes our abundance.

Consideration for others is the basis of a good life, a good society.

Even if you're not brave, pretend to be. No one can tell the difference.

The surest way to be happy is to seek happiness for others.

Laugh a lot - a good sense of humor cures almost all of life's ills.

Don't expect anything original from an echo.

Not everyone repeats gossip. Some improve it.

The more we grow up the less we blow up.

Use your wit to amuse, not abuse.

Don't let your parents down. Remember, they brought you up.

Don't use time or words carelessly. Neither can be retrieved.

A real home is more than just a roof over your head - it is a foundation under your feet.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Nov. 14, 1993, p. 2]

God loves each of us as if there were only one of us to love.
[by Augustine]

The smallest deed is better than the greatest intention.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Jan. 9, 1994, p. 3]

Keep your Bible open and you will not find the door to heaven shut.

Knowledge becomes wisdom only after it has been put into practice.

People will judge you by your actions, not by your intentions. You may have a heart of gold, but so does a hard boiled egg.

Criticism should always leave the person feeling as if he or she has been helped.

Laughter is the sweetest music that ever greeted the human ear.

A boaster and a liar are first cousins.

It is possible to learn more from our enemies than we learn from our friends.

Ideals are like tuning forks. You must sound them frequently to keep your life up to pitch.

The one fleeting good deed you perform may be just the boost someone needs to help carry his load.

One minute of keeping your mouth shut is worth an hour's explanation.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Mar. 20, 1994, p. 3]

Parents need to discipline their children when they are young so they will discipline themselves when they are grown.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Mar. 13, 1994, p. 2]

Make sure the thing that you are living for - is worth dying for.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Mar. 6, 1994, p. 3]

ARE YOU A YOUTH-FRIENDLY ADULT?

You are a youth-friendly adult if you:
1. Pray for the youth, especially the teens, in both public and private prayers
2. Pray for all the parents of the congregation in both public and private prayers
3. Support the youth program by volunteering to chaperone youth events and trips
4. Encourage your children to attend ALL available youth activities
5. Bring your child to ALL available youth activities
6. Appreciate the effort given by the youth workers of the church by encouraging them and their work
7. Volunteer or be open to teach Bible classes when asked.
If you can say you do ALL of the above items, you are considered a youth-friendly adult. How friendly are you?
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Feb. 27, 1994, p. 3]

You cannot always prevent people from speaking evil of you, but you can live so that their stories will be false.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, June 26, 1994, p. 3]

DON'T JOIN A CHURCH...JUST BE A CHRISTIAN!

There is a common misconception that when one becomes a Christian it is necessary to join a church.

There is another common misconception that a Christian doesn't need to belong to a church.

The truth is that a Christian must not join a church, but does belong to a church. This sounds like a contradiction! The explanation is surprisingly simple.

Jesus began His church (Matt. 16:18) which is composed of those who choose to follow Him (disciples or Christians - Acts 11:26).

Thus the simple act of becoming a Christian (Acts 2:38-47) automatically brings that person into the church of Christ. Local groups of Christians are thus called "churches of Christ" (Rom. 16:16).

Hence by becoming a Christian one is already in Christ's church, and so cannot be outside it (Eph. 5:23-30).
[from The Outreach, 10 July 1994, p. 3]

When one man differs from another, there is opportunity for growth in love and patience.

Silence can be...deafening!
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, May 30, 1993, p. 3]

I've shut the door on yesterday and thrown the key away. Tomorrow holds no tears for me, since I have found today.
[by Vivian Laramore]

Father, answering the telephone: "No, this is not 'Dreamboat'. This is the supply ship.

The wages of sin are always paid on time.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Aug. 16, 1992, p. 3]

Smiling is happy and fun...feels good...looks nice...and costs nothing!
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin]

An inferiority complex is any teenager who feels his parents are smarter than he is.
[from The Outreach, 11 July 1993, p. 2]

Definition of a doctor: Someone who tells you if you don't cut something out, he will.
[from The Outreach, 11 July 1993, p. 2]

Tongue twister: Six sick sad snakes slip and slide off slick ski slopes.
[from The Outreach, 11 July 1993, p. 2]

Father: How dare you! What do you mean by hugging my daughter?
Boy: I was just carrying out the scriptural injunction, "Hold fast that which is good."
[from The Outreach, 11 July 1993, p. 2]

Motorist to Mechanic: "Would you fit a new dipstick in the motor please."
Mechanic: "Why, have you lost the old one?"
Motorist: "No, but it doesn't reach the oil any more."
[from The Outreach, 6 June 1993, p. 3]

Quiz-master: "Now, for $64,000, what was Ghandi's first name?"
Contestant, (hopefully): "Was it Goosey, Goosey?"
[from The Outreach, 6 June 1993, p. 3]

Foreman to apprentice: "What seems to be the problem?"
Apprentice: "Half these nails I can't seem to hammer in."
Foreman: "You're trying to hammer them in head first, you idiot. Those nails are for the other side of the house."
[from The Outreach, 6 June 1993, p. 3]

Definition of an optimist: The person who reaches for their hymn book when the preacher says "And finally".
[from The Outreach, 6 June 1993, p. 3]

Oddly enough the world's shortest sermon is preached by a traffic sign: "Keep right."
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Oct. 3, 1993, p. 3]

The strength of the opinion is inversely proportionate to the knowledge of the problem.

The soul that has once been wakened or stunned or uplifted by the desire of God will inevitably awake to the fear of losing him.
[by C.S. Lewis]

Fear does not bring about positive change. It is a mistake to provoke fear in an attempt to help others.
[by Larry Deason]

If you have a rose to give...give it today for tomorrow may be too late.
[from The Outreach, 12 June 1994, p. 3]

CONSIDER JESUS (Heb. 12:3)

1. Consider Jesus, even as a boy, showing greater interest for discussing the things of God than for his parents' anxiety for himself. (Luke 2:49). Is the word of God a consuming interest in our lives?

2. Consider Jesus, tired and hungry after a long journey, talking with a Samaritan woman at a well. His disciples disapproved, partly because they were anxious for Jesus' welfare, and pressed him to eat. (John 4:34). Do we make the most of opportunities to talk about Jesus who has sent us?

3. Consider Jesus, even when under pressure of work, making time to pray. (Mark 1:35). Is prayer as important in our daily lives as it was for Jesus?

4. As we consider Jesus' abiding interest in his Father, in his eagerness to talk about the things of God, and in his deep desire to pray to his Father continually, we will want to do the same, more and more. And as we do, "We will not grow weary and lose heart."
[from The Truth in Love, no. 15, Apr. 25, 1993, p. 7]

THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST

1.	An essential possession of the Christian (Rom. 8:9)
2.	Bear the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23)
3.	Walk in the Spirit (Gal. 5:25)
4.	Be Christ-like (Phili. 2:5)
	a.	Humility (John 13:12-17; Col. 3:12)
	b.	Compassion (Matt. 9:36; I Pet. 3:8)
	c.	Forgiveness (Matt. 5:43-44; Col. 3:13)
	d.	Obedience (Matt. 3:15; Heb. 5:8-9; I Pet. 1:14-15)
	e.	Love (John 13:34; Eph. 5:2)
	f.	Trust (John 5:30; I Pet. 5:7)
	g.	Concern (Matt. 23:37; I Thes. 3:12)
	h.	Steadfastness (Matt. 4:10; II Thes. 2:15)
5.	Be partakers of the divine nature (II Pet. 1:4)

Note the qualities of the divine nature listed in II Pet. 1:5-7, and note the observation in v. 8.
[from The Truth in Love, no. 37, Sept. 20, 1992, p. 9]

SOME CHALLENGES OF CHRIST (I Pet. 2:21-25)
1. To live as Christ lived (Gal. 2:20; John 13:15)
2. To grow as Christ grew (II Pet. 3:18; Luke 2:52; cf. Luke 4:22)
3. To behave as Christ did (Phili. 2:1-5; Matt. 11:29)
4. To obey as Christ obeyed (Heb. 5:8-9)
5. To give as Christ gave (I John 3:16)
6. To love as Christ loved (Eph. 5:2)
7. To forgive as Christ forgave (Eph. 4:32)
8. To endure as Christ endured (Heb. 12:1-3)
[from The Truth in Love, no. 23, Aug. 23, 1992, p. 9]

WALK...AS HE WALKED
(I John 2:6)
1. Walk in Jesus (Col. 2:6-8)
2. Walk by the spirit (Gal. 5:16)
3. Walk in the truth (III John 4)
4. Walk after his commandments (II John 6)
5. Walk by the same rule (Phili. 3:16)
6. Walk in love (Eph. 5:2)
7. Walk properly (Rom. 13:13)
8. Walk in a worthy manner (Eph. 4:1-3)
9. Walk carefully (Eph. 5:15-17)
10. Walk in good works (Eph. 2:10)
[from The Truth in Love, no. 21, May 31, 1992, p. 9]

GOOD NEIGHBORS

In the elevator of the apartment building where I live I saw a notice saying, "Lost - $10 bill in elevator. Finder please contact Miss Carter, Apt. 318."

I was perturbed, because Miss Carter is a little old lady who has no relatives and augments her small pension by mending for some of the tenants.

A couple of hours later I knocked at her door. When she opened it, I knew from her look that her money had been returned. "Yes," she answered to my inquiry, "it's been found. Mr. Davis on the second floor found it. Also Mr. Harvey and Mrs. West. Best of all, I found it myself in my coat pocket, before all these wonderful people came to my door."

"Please, my dear, on your way back, take the notice down for me before some more wonderful people find it."
[by Henery E. Leabo from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, April 15, 1993, p. 2]

WATCH OUT FOR ISHMAELS!

The story of Ishmael in the Old Testament is a story of disbelief and impatience. When God called Abraham into a great nation...(Gen. 12:2). For the next several years Abraham travelled up and down Canaan as we waited for God to fulfill His promise by the birth of a son.

As the years passed Abraham's faith grew weak and he became impatient. Where was the son God had promised so many years earlier? Finally, Sarah approached Abraham with a solution. It was customary in those days that if a wife could not bear children, she could give her maidservant to her husband for a wife and he could have children through her. So Abraham took Hagar for a wife and soon Ishmael was born. Now Abraham had the son God had promised. Or so he thought.

Soon after the birth of Ishmael, God appeared to Abraham to inform him of an upcoming birth. Sarah would conceive and bring forth a child in her old age. Abraham couldn't believe it. He even laughed at the absurdity of the idea. But God wasn't joking.

When Abraham realized God was serious, he pleaded for Ishmael to be the fulfillment of the promise. But God said no. Ishmael was Abraham's solution, but Isaac would be God's.

Have you ever grown impatient with God? Have you ever tried to fix things your way instead of waiting for God to help you? I suspect all of us need to watch out for Ishmaels, and learn to wait for the Isaacs.
[by Leslie Chapman from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, April 18, 1993, p. 2]

DISCOVERY

Today I smiled, and all at once
Things didn't look so bad.
Today I shared with someone else,
A bit of hope I had.
Today I sang a little song,
And felt my heart grow light,
And walked a happy little mile,
With out a cloud in sight.
Today I worked with what I had,
And longed for nothing more,
And what had seemed like only weeds,
Were flowers at my door.
Today I loved a little more,
Complained a little less,
And in giving of myself,
Forgot my weariness.
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, April 18, 1993, p. 3]

DESTROY YOUR ENEMIES

Abraham Lincoln, after becoming President fo the United States, was taken to task for his kindness toward his enemies. "Why do you try to make friends of them?" asked his associate. "You are in a position now to destroy them." Lincoln gently replied, "Am I not destroying my enemies when I make them my friends?"

Many a person lives for the day when he will be in a position to get even with those who have wronged him. But vengeance doesn't belong to me; it belongs exclusively for God. He announced...(Rom. 12:19). The sword of vengeance is too heavy for man. He stumbles stupidly when he attempts to wield it. And he usually falls on it and destroys himself.

An Oriental proverb states: "Water does not remain on the mountain, or vengeance in a great mind." Dr. Batsell Barrett Baxter told of riding in a plane beside a blind business executive. He was so impressed with the friendliness of the blind man that he couldn't refrain from asking how he lost his sight.

"A competitor of mine employed a gangster to throw acid in my face," was the reply.
"Do you know who it was?" asked Dr. Baxter.
"Yes," replied the blind man. "But I could not prove it in court."
"Don't you feel a terrible resentment?" questioned Dr. Baxter.

"I did for years, but it dawned on me that I was doing myself the real injury," said the man. "I forgave this man and have actually done him some favors in recent years."

He went on to tell how this attitude toward an enemy had changed his entire life.

He did exactly what the Lord advised. Our text states...(Rom. 12:20-21).

Spiritual maturity calls for us to return good for evil.

Benjamin Franklin said: "Doing an injury puts you below your enemy; revenging one makes you but even with him; forgiving one sets you above him."

Forgive! It will destroy your enemies.
[by Joe Barnett & John Gibson from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, Dec. 17, 1995, p. 2]

The following is a paragraph describing Jesus' baptism was written by a group from our high school class this past Wednesday night:

Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee where other people were being baptized by John. Jesus asked John to baptize Him, but John tried to stop him, saying, "I should be baptized by You." Finally, Jesus talked John into baptizing Him in the Jordan River. After He was baptized, Jesus prayed. The Heavens opened, and the Spirit of God landed upon Him in the form of a dove. A voice came from Heaven saying, "You are my beloved Son, in You I am well pleased."
[from Sycamore Chapel bulletin, April 4, 1993, p. 3]

There is a word being dropped from the English language. That word is "sin". If you have ever heard of it chances are you think it means doing something bad. Did you know that that's not the way God sees it; that you can be doing good things and still sin? The Bible says that sin is doing things our own way instead of the way God wants them done. It doesn't matter if what we are doing is good or bad. If we are doing our own thing it is sin. That's why Jesus came to take God's punishment for this in our place. Isaiah said it this way...(Isa. 53:5-6) The punishment handed out to Jesus was death and that is the punishment we deserve. It is what we get too unless we ask God to forgive us and accept what Jesus did for us. Ask him to take control of your life.

How quick we are to judge when someone has fallen. How slow to learn the golden rule to do unto others as we would have them do to us. Don't sneer at the man who is down today unless you have felt the blow that caused his fall or felt the shame that only the fallen know. You may be strong but still the blows that were his if dealt to you in the self-same way at the self-same time might cause you to stagger too. Don't be too harsh with the man whose sins all pelt him with words of stones unless you are sure yeah doubly sure that you have not sins of your own. For you know perhaps if the tempters voice should whisper as soft to you as it did to him when he went astray it would cause you to falter too. "I never forgive," said a certain General Oglethorpe to John Wesley. Quick as a flash came the reply "Then I hope, sir, you never sin."

THE THREE "BEARS"

No, not the "who's-been-sleeping-in-my-bed" variety. The New Testament speaks of three "bears" that are more crucial to the Christian than those mentioned in the fairytale. They are the sin bear, the cross bear, and the strong bear.

The sin bear. (Heb. 9:28). At His first appearance an earth, Jesus came to bear our sins on the cross. All Christians, though unworthy recipients of grace, are given a second change at happiness and ultimate meaning. And then Christ comes back again, no one knows when, He will return not to bear our sins (He's done that already), but to reward those who have lived their lives in service to Him.

The cross bear. (Luke 14:27). Have no illusions: the Christian life can be a bear. It is so difficult to persistently and consistently follow Jesus' example with the world placing tremendous pressures on you to do otherwise. But this is where the sin bear helps out. The bearer of our sins lightens our load by taking upon Himself the guilt and shame associated with our transgression. When the baggage of sin has been cast aside and we no longer have to drag around the ball and chain of guilt, we can then...(Heb. 12:1-2).

The strong bear. (Rom. 15:1). Having received from Jesus the strength to walk the narrow path, we can then impart God's strength to others. Our faith is not to be a selfish thing. If God is blessing you, use that to bless others. Rom. 15:2 tells us to please our neighbour "for his good, to his edification." This is not just the task of preachers and elders. You can get a lot of mileage out of a kind word or a pat on the back. Try it.
[by Matthew Merrick from The Outreach, 1 May, 1993, p. 3]

DON'T QUIT!

An army officer candidate was asked in an examination what he would do if he were occupying a valley with 4,000 men at his command and there were 5,000 enemy troups on the hill to his right, 7,000 on the hill to his left, and 10,000 enemy troups blocking each end of the valley. The candidate replied without hesitation, "Sir, I'd resign my commission."

Many think the solution to problems is just to quit. Preachers quit preaching because someone criticizes their sermons or the church doesn't pay them what they think they are worth. Members quit the church because someone doesn't speak to them to give them enough attention. Elders resign because the congregation has some problems facing it. But Jesus said...(Luke 9:62).

In the midst of Jesus' personal ministry, he was faced with a large scale defection from the ranks of his followers: "Many of his disciples went back, and followed him no more," the Bible says. But Jesus didn't quit.

The leaders of the people he came to save rejected him and plotted his death, but Jesus didn't quit.

One of his closest companions, one of the twelve he had personally chosen as leaders of his movement, betrayed him into the hands of the enemy for 30 pieces of silver, but Jesus didn't quit.

One of the three most loved and trusted friends denied even knowing him and cursed and swore to prove it, but Jesus didn't quit.

All of his friends deserted him, and Jesus found himself all alone, but Jesus didn't quit.

He was put through the mockery of an illegal trial, with trumped-up charges and hired witnesses, but Jesus didn't quit.

He was mocked, ridiculed, beaten, spit upon. The very mission he came to accomplish was made the object of scorn and abuse as the soldiers bowed before him in mockery and said, "Hail, King of the Jews." But Jesus didn't quit.

Finally, Jesus was nailed to the cross - crucified - made to suffer the most agonizing, terrible death that the fiendish mind of man was able to conceive. But Jesus didn't quit.

Even while he hung on the cross he practiced the love and forgiveness and concern for others that he had preached in his life: "This day shalt thou be with me in paradise;" "Son, behold thy mother;" "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do!" He didn't quit!

His very death accomplished the mission he came to perform. He conquered sin, death, hell and the grave. He didn't "give up the ghost" until his work was done and he could cry with a loud voice, "It is finished!" He didn't quit!

And he is our example. We are to follow in his steps. If what you are doing is right - be sure of that first - then go ahead. Don't quit!
[by Cecil May, Jr. from "News" Derby church, Kansas]

SLOW ME DOWN, LORD

Slow me down, Lord! Ease the pounding of my heart
By quieting my mind. Steady my harried pace
With a vision of the reach of time.
Give me the calmness of the everlasting hills. Break the tensions of my nerves
With the soothing music of singing streams. Teach me the art
Of taking minute vacations, slowing down
to look at a flower
to chat with an old friend or make a new one
to pat a stray dog
to watch a spider build a web
to smile at a child
to read a few lines from a good book. Let me look upwards,
Into the branches of the towering oak
And know that it grew great and strong
Because it grew slowly and well. Slow me down, Lord. Inspire me to send my roots deep
Into the soil of life's enduring values.
[by Wilfred A. Paterson from Currents]

WRITER REMINDS US OF OUR MORTALITY

The last thing we Americans want to think about is our mortality. But I'm dying. And so are you. In spite of all our efforts, we will never stop the aging process or cheat death.

As best science can figure it, there is a kind of built-in biological limit programmed into the cells of the human body. In laboratory experiments done in 1961, Dr. Hayflick and his colleagues studied fibroblasts from a human embryo. Even when cells were grown under optimal conditions, death followed after 50 doublings.

The average life span of humans will probably never be much greater than it is now in America, despite the longevity of some. The average age for women is about 75; men live to an average age of about 72. After they have divided about 50 times, human cells start falling apart like old jalopies! (Psa. 90:10a).

The human body is worth preserving. We are stewards of life and health, as well as of money and talents, before God. "And yet," as Philip Yancey says, "in the end, the health club stands as a pagan temple. Its members strive to preserve only one part of the person: the body, which is the least enduring part of all.... Physical training is of some value, Paul advised Timothy, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come (I Tim. 4:8). As I pedaled, straining against computer-generated hills, I had to ask myself, "What is my spiritual counterpart to the Chicago Health Club?" And then, more troubling, "How much time and energy do I devote to each?"

Thoughts about our mortality do not have to be morbid. It is simply that we need to remember where true hope lies. It is not in this world, but in the world to come. It is not with the physical body, but with the resurrected one.

Philosopher Soren Kierkegaard considered our awareness of death to be the central fact that distinguishes humans from animals. Martin Luther wrote, "Even in the best of health we should have death always before our eyes, [so that] we will not expect to remain on this earth forever, but will have one foot in the air, so to speak."

We need to take death into account lest we forget what God has done to defeat it. Mortality will be swallowed up by life through the triumph of Jesus Christ.

We're dying, but death will not have the final word, for Jesus has the keys of death and hades (Rev. 1:18).
[by Rubel Shelly from Christian Chronicle, Feb., 1992]

THE WORD OF GOD DOESN'T NEED "HELP" FROM US

We see religious periodicals in which the writers of articles attempt to support Bible teaching (and un-Bible teaching) by reference to other sources than the Bible. We hope it is not an indication of a growing trend, but it is worrying just the same.

Consider some unfortunate examples:

Appeals to subjective impressions. One writer stated "We have no hesitancy in affirming our faith in..." and mentioned a particular doctrine. If the doctrine is scriptural, his comment is superfluous: and if it is unscriptural, his comment won't make it right.

Appeals to Bible scholars. Another writer supported his argument by adding "As the scholarly J.W. McGarvey observed..." Scholars have been known to be wrong and again - what is added to the Bible teaching itself by quoting some scholar, no matter how learned?

Appeals to Greek secular language. A writer referred to a New Testament word and stated that "A (Bible) word in Greek should be understood as meaning what it would have meant to the Greek-speaking world in New Testament times." In fact, the particular Bible word referred to is well-defined in its own Bible context. It is not true that a word used in scripture always means the same as in secular usage.

Appeals to lexicographers. A writer stated that "Arndt and Gingrich also called it...and Thayer says..." Lexicographers and Bible commentators often reflect their particular denominational bias. These references may be helpful on many occasions in our Bible study, but we should be careful to see (like the Bereans - Acts 17:11) whether their statements are in accord with scripture. They should not be used to support scripture teaching - "The Bible is its own best interpreter"!

Appeal to philosophers. In another article, the writer added that "Even the agnostic Robert Ingersoll viewed immortality as an inescapable dream". Quoting a human opinion, no matter how impressive, won't make an unscriptural view correct, though it may impress the impressionable!
[from The Truth in Love, no. 30, Aug. 2, 1992]

THE KNOWLEDGE THAT IS ESSENTIAL
(II Pet. 1:3-11.)
True followers of Christ should know
(i) How they became Christians,
(ii) How to worship as Christians,
(iii) How to tell others the way to become Christians, and
(iv) How to live the life of a Christian.

Jesus Christ went to extraordinary lengths (II Cor. 8:9) to make it possible for us to be forgiven our sins and reconciled to God (II Cor. 5:17-21). He has given his followers the privilege of serving him by serving others (Matt. 25:40).

God expects Christians to know what they must do as his people and this knowledge comes from diligent study of his word and the application of his directions in their lives.

1. How to become a Christian. (I John 2:3-4). There are many things about which we may be knowledgeable, but the most important knowledge for anyone to have is the knowledge of God. As God himself tells us in his word...(II Pet. 1:3).

We learn this "true knowledge" from "hearing the word of Christ" (Rom. 10:17). Christ commanded his apostles to tell people how to be his followers (or Christians) - by believing what has been written about him (John 20:31), by turning to God (or repentance) from wanting their own way and, instead, wanting to obey him (Luke 24:47), and by humbly submitting to baptism in his name (Matt. 28:19). Those who do as the Lord commands are "forgiven their sins" (Acts 2:38) and added by the Lord to the company of the saved (Acts 2:47).

This is the only way God has given for salvation (John 14:6), and only those who have heard and acted upon this "true knowledge" can be called "Christians" by God's definition (Acts 11:26).

One may profess to be a Christian and do many good works, but not be acknowledged by God. God recognises to be true Christians only those who obey him (Matt. 7:21-23; I John 2:4-6).

2. How to worship as a Christian. (John 4:23).

Christians are required to worship God with the right attitude (I Cor. 11:27-31) and through the right knowledge (II John 9). Thus the first people to receive Christ's New Testament commands through his apostles...(Acts 2:42). When true Christians meet in any location and do the same "in spirit and truth", they are worshipping God as he desires and are, therefore, acceptable to him (Rom. 12:1-2).

The apostles' teaching is Christ's New Testament teaching which the Holy Spirit gave them to retell (John 14:26; John 15:26-27). Christians in every place must worship by devoting themselves to the same teaching (I Cor. 4:17; II Tim. 2:2), the purpose of which is to obtain our spiritual growth (Eph. 4:15-16).

The fellowship is the assembly of Christians in any location to worship God and to encourage each other (Heb. 10:24-25). Our absence from the fellowship is not good for ourselves nor for our brethren whom we abandon. Remember Christ's promise to be...(Matt. 18:20). He never forsakes the fellowship of his followers (Heb. 2:12) - where are we at such times?

The breaking of bread is the sharing in the blood and body of Christ, symbolically represented by the fruit of the vine and the unleavened bread (I Cor. 10:16) on each "first day of the week" (Acts 20:7; I Cor. 16:2), wherever we gather as a church to worship our Lord (I Cor. 11:23-26). This is a time of remembrance and thanksgiving concerning our Lord's sacrifice, and also a time of proclamation and rejoicing concerning his promised return to take us to our eternal home in heaven. We should share in this part of the worship, as in all other parts, in a manner worthy of its purpose (I Cor. 11:27).

The prayers include the petitions we make to God for all (I Tim. 2:1-2) and for each other (Eph. 6:18). When someone prays in the assembly on behalf of the brethren present, the prayer must be "according to God's will" (I John 5:14), in the way Jesus described (Matt. 6:9-13), so that all may "say 'Amen' (it's true) at your giving of thanks" (I Cor. 14:16). The prayers also include the praises we sing in...(Eph. 5:19-20; Heb. 13:15).

3. How to tell others the way to be Christians

The apostle Peter told the listening crowd in Jerusalem...(Acts 2:14), and then he told them the gospel of God's love and forgiveness. Years later, Paul is recorded as doing likewise in the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch...(Acts 13:38). No doubt at all other times, wherever the early Christians went telling people how to become Christians, they called upon them to know God's terms for forgiveness and salvation through Jesus Christ. They knew these terms well enough to be able to share them with others; and we should do likewise. How well have we prepared ourselves to tell the gospel? Those early Christians were motivated enough (Acts 5:42). What was their motivation, and what is ours?

4. How to live the life of a Christian. (Eph. 5:1-2).

So much of the apostolic letters of Christ's New Testament include his commands for Christian living. The passage quoted at the beginning of this lesson, from II Pet. 1:3-11, is an example of what we must cultivate in our lives as Christians. Then we will have the "true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ" (II Pet. 1:8).

Read, for example, other New Testament teachings on the same theme in Rom. 12-15; Gal. 5-6; Eph. 4-6; the Philippian letter; Col. 3-4; Titus 2; James 3-5; I Pet. 2-4; I John 3-5, and all the rest! Every day we can know and practise all that God wants us to do with our lives as Christians.

God has given us these directions because he knows they are good for us to do (James 1:17) and he also knows that they are not beyond our capacity to perform (James 1:18-21) - we are blessed if we choose to obey them (James 1:22-25).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 30, Aug 2, 1992, p. 2-3, 12-13]

RECEIVE THE WORD
(Acts 2:41)
To RECEIVE something is to accept something offered.
Its literal use is seen in Luke 2:28 - "(Simeon) took (the child Jesus) into his arms".
Its figurative use is seen in Eph. 6:17 - "take the helmet of salvation..."
What God offers is "THE WORD" (Christ and his message)

Bible meaning of RECEIVE:

1.	Hear the word. (Mark 4:20)
2.	Assess the word.
	a.	John 4:45
	b.	Acts 17:11
3.	Trust the word
	a.	Mark 10:15
	b.	James 1:21
4.	Believe the word (II Thes. 2:12)
5.	Accept the word (I Thes. 2:13)
6.	Obey the word (Acts 2:41)
7.	Retain the word. Not like those who "receive the word with joy...but in time of temptation fall away" (Luke 8:13). Rather, be like those who "hear the word, retain it, and bear fruit with perseverance" (Luke 8:15).

[from The Truth in Love, no. 30, Aug 2, 1992, p. 9]

A SIMPLE MESSAGE

The gospel message of Jesus is really a simple one.

God gives us - Hope of eternal life. We are made in the image of God, but our sins separated us from him. He made a way for us to be reconciled to himself so that we may share eternal life in his presence. (Titus 1:2; Heb. 6:19; I Pet. 3:15; I John 3:2-3.)

God gives us - His son. Jesus' other name ("Immanuel" = God with us) tells us that God took the initiative to rescue us from eternal death as a result of our sins. The name "Jesus" = God saves us. (John 3:16; Rom. 5:8; Rom. 6:23; Titus 3:4-7; I Pet. 2:24.)

God gives us - a new start. We sinned after our first start, but God saw our need to start afresh. He gives us the way to be born again so that we may receive the inheritance kept in heaven for us. (John 3:5; Acts 2:36-38; Rom. 6:3-4; I Pet. 1:3-4.)

God gives us - His spirit. When we heed and obey his terms for forgiveness and salvation, God gives us the Holy Spirit to indwell us. The Spirit confirms our spirit's action when we comply with God's will. (John 3:5; Acts 2:38; I Cor. 6:19; Eph. 6:17; Gal. 5:16; Rom. 8:14-16.)

God wants from us - worship. God wants his created beings to give him reverence in worship. Jesus said that this worship must be "in spirit" (i.e. with the right attitude) and "in truth" (i.e. observing the right teaching). (John 4:24; Acts 2:42; John 8:31; II John 9; I Pet. 2:5.)

God wants from us - love. Many professing believers think more of fruitless miracles for the present, or of a so-called millenium in the future. But God's word requires us to give careful attention to living lives of love - so doing looks after our present and takes care of our future. (Matt. 22:37-38; Rom. 13:8-10; Gal. 5:19-21; Gal. 5:22-23; I John 2:5-6.)

God wants from us - perseverance. Too many begin to follow Jesus with wrong expectations. When they feel disenchanted, they give up. God wants us to "fix our eyes on Jesus", and then we won't "lose heart". Be a stay fast! (Matt. 10:22; I Cor. 15:58; Heb. 10:23-25; Heb. 12:1-3.)

God wants us to tell others. Such a wonderful promise from God must be shared with others. (Matt. 28:19-20; Acts 5:42; Acts 8:1-4; Rom. 10:13-14; Mark 16:15-16.)
[from The Truth in Love, no. 13, Apr. 5, 1992, p. 1-3, 12-13]

THE WORD OF THE LORD STANDS FOREVER
(I Pet. 1:22-25)
In too many church pulpits and publications the word of God is trivialised, denigrated, ignored, diluted and adulterated. In its place many preachers are preaching their own experiences, their philosophies and their own wisdom with such "smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people" (Rom. 16:18).

This happens because too many people...(II Tim. 4:3-4).

It comes as a shock to realise that the apostle Paul was describing the existing "churches of Christ" of his day when he wrote these warnings! Thus we should not be complacent and think that such an account describes today's denominations only.

The apostle Peter emphasised the supreme importance of "the word that was preached to you" (I Pet. 1:25) which is "the living and enduring word of God". It is this truth we obey in order to be born again. Since this truth is "imperishable, living and enduring", it is inconceivable that any Christian would turn away from it and prefer "myths". Yet, sadly, this happens.

As we break bread in remembrance of our Lord's death on our behalf, let us resolve to be loyal to him and to our brethren by standing firm in the truth for which he died and which has brought us salvation through him. Be loyal to "the church of God which he bought with his own blood" (Acts 20:28).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 19, May 17, 1992, p. 7]

NOTHING BUT THE BEST!

1.	Give God our best
	(a)	The best of our aims (Matt. 6:19-20)
	(b)	The best of our love (Matt. 22:35-40)
	(c)	The best of our loyalty (Luke 9:23-26, 57-62)
	(d)	The best of our labours (John 6:27)
2.	Our best obtains God's rewards
	(a)	The highest aim is rewarded (Matt. 6:33)
	(b)	The highest compassion is rewarded (Matt. 25:31-40)
	(c)	The highest liberality is rewarded (Luke 6:38)
	(d)	The highest attitude is rewarded (Phili. 2:1-5)
3.	God's rewards are best
	(a)	An inestimable reward (I Cor. 2:9-10)
	(b)	A better and enduring substance (Heb. 10:34)
	(c)	An immovable kingdom (Heb. 12:28)
	(d)	An incorruptible inheritance (I Pet. 1:3-4)

(I Pet. 1:5-7)
[from The Truth in Love, no. 19, May 17, 1992, p. 9]

THE GOSPEL WITH POWER, THE HOLY SPIRIT, AND DEEP CONVICTION
(I Thes. 1:5-8)

We will know the gospel of Power, of the Holy Spirit, and of deep conviction when we LEARN God's word and, in turn, TEACH it to others, and live lives which are good EXAMPLES as Jesus' devoted followers.

STEPS TO LEARNING

Three interlinked steps in the learning process are teaching, example and personal application. Without teaching we would not know which examples we saw were illustrating lessons we need to learn. Without examples we might not know how to apply to ourselves what we are taught. Without the desire to be taught or to learn from examples we will not apply the teaching to ourselves. Without the desire to apply the lessons in our own lives, such teaching as we may receive and such examples as we may observe are lost upon us.

Failure to learn. The failure of many people to accept and commit themselves to Jesus Christ is often due to a breakdown in these interlinked steps of teaching, example and personal application (Acts 2:36-42).

The failure of many Christians to grow in the grace and knowledge of their Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ (II Pet. 3:18) is often due to faulty assimilation and application of his will, taught and exemplified in his New Testament (Heb. 5:11-14).

An illustration. A simple illustration from local church life may help us understand. Recently a lesson was preached which included a reference to congregational obedience to elders (Heb. 13:17). Later, a puzzled member asked what the elders had required of this church. Yet every week the elders compile a News Leaflet for the church members and every week there are suggestions and appeals in the Leaflet regarding a wide variety of things members should and may do. In fact, by their involvement in such activities, many members are good examples in the church. But the impression remains that the general response to the teaching and examples might be better. Some members are not recognising the teaching or not noticing the examples, and so they are not making the necessary personal applications.

"COME FOLLOW ME"

Remember that Jesus has given each one of us his commission to serve him in his church. (Matt. 28:18-20; I Cor. 12:12-17; Rom. 12:3-16). The teaching is in his New Testament and taught by faithful Christians. How do we hear it? The examples are also in his New Testament and in the lives of faithful Christians. How do we observe these? Everyone of us has the personal obligation to make personal application and no one should wait to be asked. We have already been called by our Master, don't wait for others to urge us (II Cor. 8:3-5).

Stimulating examples

It so happens that, in this congregation, we are all member with family responsibilities and secular obligations. No one is employed by the church to devote full time serving it. Only by a personal voluntary compulsion does anyone actively use whatever talents and gifts their Lord has given them (Matt. 25:14-30). Do we learn, for example, from the demeanour and attitudes of our deaf brethren? Although more severely disabled than appearances suggest and, perhaps, more than most of us realise, they are a continuing inspiration by their application of our Lord's teaching in worship and in Christian living and service. Their Bible study classes are not a superficial gloss of the main points of the lessons, but a painstaking and informative verse-by-verse analysis through each book of the Bible. Do we take note of what such examples among us are saying to us?

Something to learn. (John 6:45; Matt. 11:29; Col. 1:6-7; II Tim. 3:14-15.)
Something to teach and to be taught. (John 14:26; Matt. 28:19-20; Col. 3:16; II Tim. 3:16.)
Examples to observe. (John 13:15; I Cor. 11:1; I Tim. 4:11-16; Phili. 3:17.)
Things to apply and do. (Phili. 4:9; II Pet. 1:10-11; Heb. 5:13-14; Rev. 22:11).

Power, spirit and conviction

As we read the Bible accounts of the faithful people of God who boldly proclaimed the gospel of the risen Christ, we cannot help but be moved by the evident presence of God's power, of his Holy Spirit and of a deep conviction within them. These spiritual elements motivated them, even when the world was opposed to them and particularly when they had to face false accusations and suffer treachery at the hands of weak brethren.

As the apostle Paul wrote...(II Tim. 1:7). Paul had been subjected to so much opposition, and yet he showed the fearless confidence of one who walked closely in the steps of our Lord. Like him, let us...(Heb. 12:2-3).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 20, May 24, 1992, p. 2-3, 12-13]

IN KEEPING WITH GOD'S WILL
(II Cor. 8:1-5)

We may learn to our spiritual advantage the surprising double paradox which was the result of "the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches". First, they underwent "the most severe trial" and yet they demonstrated "overflowing joy". Second, they experienced "extreme poverty" and yet they showed "rich generosity". They were not restricted by the bounds set by their ability to respond to the needs of their brethren far away; they gave "even beyond their ability". They needed no urging to help; instead they took the initiative (derived from sensitivity to needs) to "plead for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints".

The Christians of the Macedonian churches were enabled to do all this because "they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will". For this reason, the grace of God was given to them.

Consider the supreme example of this "grace of giving" in Jesus...(II Cor. 8:9).

As we gather together to remember our Lord in the special memorial feast he has given us, let us remember also the examples of self-sacrifice of the faithful brethren of the Macedonian churches described in God's word. They "gave themselves first to the Lord" and this is the principle which we should remember as we partake of the bread and fruit of the vine. Think how Jesus gave himself to his Father and for us in his sacrifice, "in keeping with God's will". Let us go and do likewise.
[from The Truth in Love, no. 20, May 24, 1992, p. 7]

I WILL LIVE AMONG YOU
(Zech. 2:10-11)

Zechariah was given a vision of a man with a measuring line sent to measure Jerusalem. But the man doesn't get far with his intention because an angel intervenes to tell him that "Jerusalem will be a city without walls" and that the Lord would be its walls and its glory to a great host of inhabitants (Zech. 2:1-5). This meant that the city of God could not be measured, for it would be a spiritual home and a cause for great joy. People from many nations would be blessed because they joined with the Lord and became his people.

When Jesus was born, he was given the name the Lord gave: "Immanuel" which means "God with us" (Matt. 1:23). He would be given...(Luke 1:32). Jesus was to be...(Luke 2:32). His was...(John 1:14). He was...(John 1:29). Jesus foreshadowed a time when the true worshippers...(John 4:23). He instructed his apostles to "make disciples of all nations" (Matt. 28:19). And these disciples who worship the Lord are those who have come...(Heb. 12:22).

When Christians meet together in the Lord's name, they know that Jesus is with them (Matt. 18:20). In the same way, when we meet to partake of the Lord's Supper, we know he is present to share it with us as he promised (Matt. 26:29). Today, "the first day of the week" (Acts 20:7), is the day we meet to "do this in remembrance" of Jesus' death (I Cor. 11:23-26).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 27, July 12, 1992, p. 7]

THE JOY SET BEFORE HIM (Heb. 12:2)

The prospect of "the joy set before him" sustained Jesus in the face of his own intense sufferings approaching the cross.

1. At the last supper.

Jesus prayed to his father: (John 17:5).

God the Father heard and answered by...(Acts 5:31). After his resurrection, Jesus...(Mark 16:19), where God gave to Jesus...(Heb. 1:8). This was "the joy set before him".

2. On the way to the cross.

Jesus said to a group of women...(Luke 23:28). In effect Jesus was saying that, although he faced the immediate horror of crucifixion, he knew of "the joy set before him" beyond. On the other hand, there was to be no joy for Jerusalem and its disobedient people when the city was destroyed in AD 70, as he had forewarned (Luke 21:20-24).

3. Jesus contemplated this joy.

He thought of the joy of reunion with his Father in heaven (John 13:1-3; John 16:28). And he thought of the joy of receiving his saints in glory (John 14:3; I Thes. 4:17).

4. The joy set before us.

Christians have trials and tribulations in this life, but we can share with our Lord Jesus "the joy set before us" by "fixing our eyes on Jesus" (Heb. 12:1-3; Rom. 8:18; II Pet. 1:4).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 27, July 12, 1992, p. 9]

THE SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS OF THE SPIRITUAL LIFE
(Prov. 10:27)
The Bible consistantly teaches that there are special blessings to be obtained even in this present life, if we follow God.

Under the old covenant with Israel, God's promise was that...(Deut. 4:40). While under the new covenant with Christians, God's promise is...(Eph. 6:2-3).

However, we know that there are many times when "the fear of the Lord" does not "prolong life" in the literal sense. We are also told that...(Eccl. 7:15). The Bible gives us examples of righteous people [such as Enoch (Gen. 5:23-24) and Stephen (Acts 7:59-60)] whose lives were not prolonged.

Is there a contradiction? No, for Jesus tells us that...(Luke 12:15), and there are many spiritual blessings which we can have in the present life, even when we are distressed and persecuted: (Prov. 16:8; Mark 10:29-30).

There is another sense in which "the fear of the Lord prolongs days", regardless of how long we may remain in the present life: (Prov. 11:7); but, on the other hand...(Prov. 12:28).
(Rev. 11:18).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 16, Apr. 26, 1992, p. 1]

IS THE GOSPEL IN THE OLD TESTAMENT?
(Luke 2:10-11)
The word "GOSPEL" means "good news".

Towards the end of the Old Testament period, an angel announced the birth of Jesus as good news of a Saviour (Luke 2:10-11). Years later, Jesus proclaimed the good news of God's kingdom (Mark 1:14-15), and he said that this good news replaced "the Law and the Prophets proclaimed until John" (Luke 16:16).

The Old Testament (Covenant) was made between God and the nation of Israel (Deut. 5:2-3). Many people mistakenly equate the Old and New Testaments to the two named sections in our Bibles. But, in fact, the Old Testament began at Mount Sinai (given to Israel by God through Moses) and ended at the cross. The New Testament began at Mount Zion (Jerusalem) with Jesus on the cross and will end when Jesus returns in glory at the last day (Heb. 8:8-9, 13; Heb. 10:9-10; Heb. 12:18-24).

On earth, Jesus lived under and was obedient to the Old Testament laws (Heb. 4:15) and he fulfilled the Old Testament in his death on the cross (Matt. 5:17; John 19:30; Heb. 8:6).

Before the Old Testament was given to Israel through Moses, the gospel of Christ had been foretold to Abraham (Gal. 3:8). The gospel had been prophesied by the prophets of Old Testament times (I Pet. 1:10-12). The gospel was revealed by and fulfilled in Jesus (Luke 4:16-21). The gospel is God's means of salvation offered to all (Rom. 1:16; I Cor. 15:1-4), and it remains in force until Jesus' return (Matt. 24:14; Matt. 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16; II Thes. 1:5-10).
(Rev. 14:6-7).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 16, Apr. 26, 1992, p. 10]

DON'T BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU HEAR!
(Prov. 14:15)
Some people seem to think that Christians are the kinds of persons who believe any story, no matter how far-fetched or improbable. Even in the first century, some people thought it was silly to believe the sort of things Christians believed. The Athenians heard Paul's story and...(Acts 17:32). Governor Festus heard Paul's story and shouted...(Acts 26:24).

But, in fact, God does not want us to believe everything others tell us. If someone comes and tells us that he is a prophet from God and demands our worship, it isn't just silly to believe him; it is wrong.

Christians should not be simple-minded: they shouldn't believe "every word"; they should be as "wise as serpents", because they are living "in the midst of wolves" (Matt. 10:16). They should...(I John 4:1). They should...(I Thes. 5:21-22).

How can we tell what to believe? By comparing it with the things that God has already said...(I John 4:2). We can believe anything that agrees with the word of God. That is why the Bible states that...(Psa. 19:7); and that the Bereans...(Acts 17:11-12).

Christians should not believe everything they hear. They should examine everything carefully, and compare it with the word of God. "God cannot lie" (Titus 1:2).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 15, Apr. 19, 1992, p. 1]

WHO IS A GOD LIKE YOU?
(Micah 7:18-20)
The Old Testament prophet, Micah, concludes his book with this marvellous confession of confidence and faith in God. Despite the prolonged engagement in transgression by God's people, God desired to pardon and forgive them and to be merciful and compassionate towards them. He sent prophet after prophet to appeal to his people to turn back to him, but they continued to reject God's care and concern for them.

God's attitude to us is beautifully depicted in Jesus' parable of the prodigal son. In the parable the father represents God, and the swift readiness to demonstrate his compassion and to pardon his penitent son is a source of wonder and comfort to sorrowful sinners to this day. Again and again the message of the Bible, throughout the Old and New Testament sections, punches out this truth which we can embrace with full confidence because it is God who testifies to it - God is love and delights to show mercy. Why are we so hesitant to believe him?

The observance of the Lord's Supper each first day of the week ought to remind Christians of God's great love through the sacrifice of Jesus, his Son, on the cross. At the last supper with his apostles just before his arrest and crucifixion, Jesus promised...(Matt. 26:28).

As we partake of the Supper, let us ask that old rhetorical question again: "Who is a God like you, who pardons sin...?" And when we answer for ourselves that there is no God like our God (I Kings 8:23), let us praise and thank him for his mercy and compassion toward us.
[from The Truth in Love, no. 15, Apr. 19, 1992, p. 6]

BE CHRISTIANS IN CHRIST'S CHURCH BY CHRIST'S WAY

Be Christians. After Jesus' resurrection, and by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the apostles proclaimed God's plan of salvation and urged everyone to respond to God's call to be saved (Acts 2). Those who obeyed were called "believers" (Acts 2:44), "disciples" (Acts 6:1) or "Christians" (Acts 11:26). These are the Lord's names for his followers. Christians must not be identified by any name that is not used to them in the word of God (II John 9).

In Christ's church. Jesus established one church, his own (Matt. 16:18). He has all authority (Matt. 28:18). Jesus authorized his apostles to declare his terms for discipleship (Matt. 28:19). They faithfully did so, and...(Acts 2:47). If you have been saved, you have been added by your Lord to his church, the church of Christ, Christians must not be identified with any church that is not described in the word of God (II John 9).

By Christ's way. Jesus excluded any other way of salvation than through himself (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). His apostles revealed Christ's way to all prepared to believe him...(Acts 2:38). By Christ's way we know we are forgiven, because he guarantees it. Christians are people who, like those who accepted Christ's way in Acts 2, believed in Jesus, turned to God (repented), and submitted obediently to baptism, thus proving the sincerity of their belief in Christ (John 14:23).
(Titus 3:4-6)
[from The Truth in Love, no. 15, Apr. 19, 1992, p. 7]

CHURCH GOSSIP

In every congregation the members discuss matters affecting others in the fellowship. Much of this is an exchange of information, often intended to offer help where needed. Sometimes it is idle curiosity, but at other times it is useful for understanding another person's special situation and, therefore, possible role in the fellowship.

Regrettably, though, sometimes such information is what the Bible calls "gossip" or "slander". This is particularly so, when the information is damaging in its effects on others.

a) How is gossip different from information? To understand the difference between the "sharing of information" and "gossip" we should read the Scriptures - for example:

Exo. 23:1; Lev. 19:16; Psa. 34:13 (cf. I Pet. 3:10); Psa. 38:12; Psa. 41:6-9; Psa. 50:20; Psa. 52:2; Psa. 101:5; Psa. 102:8; Psa. 109:2-3; Prov. 4:24; Prov. 6:16-19; Prov. 10:18; Prov. 11:13; Prov. 13:3; Prov. 14:25; Prov. 15:1; Prov. 16:28; Prov. 17:9; Prov. 20:19; Prov. 26:20-28; Eze. 22:9; Matt. 12:36-37; Rom. 3:8; I Cor. 4:13; II Cor. 6:8; II Cor. 12:20; Eph. 4:25-31; Eph. 5:4; I Tim. 3:11; I Tim. 5:13; I Tim. 6:4; Titus 2:3; Titus 3:2-3; James 1:26; James 4:11; I Pet. 2:1; I Pet. 3:16; I Pet. 4:4.

b) What scripture examples are there? Some examples follow:

Gen. 31:1-2; I Sam. 22:6-19; II Sam. 10:1ff; II Sam. 16:1ff; I Kings 21:13; Ezra 4:7-16; Neh. 6:5-9; Esth. 3:8-9; Psa. 31:13; Jer. 18:18; Jer. 38:4; Dan. 3:8-12; Dan. 6:13; Matt. 11:18-19; Matt. 26:59-61; John 8:48; John 10:20; Acts 6:11; Acts 17:5-7; Acts 21:28; Acts 24:1-6; Acts 25:7; Rom. 3:8; I Cor. 4:13; II Cor. 6:8.
[from The Truth in Love, no. 15, Apr. 19, 1992, p. 11]

WHY GOD LOVES ME

I know that God loves me, but I cannot understand how he could love someone like Saul the Pharisee. It's all very well for the apostle Paul to write (many years after his conversion and change of name from Saul the Pharisee) that...(I Tim. 1:16). But what about people like me?

For as long as I can remember, even as a small child, I always believed in God. I haven't been a blasphemer or a persecutor or even a violent man. I haven't been as bad as the apostle Paul admitted he had been. No wonder God loves me; but how could he love Paul! I always go to the meetings of the church, I sing in the services, partake of the Lord's supper, and join in the prayers. I listen attentively to the sermons, I don't see myself like others who are robbers, evildoers, adulterers and the like. Those who know me will vouch for my good standing in the church and in the community. You can see why God loves me.

I must admit it was a bit of a shock to read Jesus' story about the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14). The Pharisee prayed about himself: "God, I thank you that I am not like all other men - robbers, evildoers, adulterers - or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all my income". He sounds just like me - a fine, good man who does much good in the church and in the community. Why, the tax collector even admitted: "God, have mercy on me, a sinner". He was just like the aposlte Paul had been. The amazing thing is that Jesus went on to say that the tax collector, rather than the Pharisee, "went home justified before God".

Now I'm glad God loves everybody: the self-righteous and the good people as much as the ignorant and the violent. (Rom. 3:23). That's why...(I Tim. 2:3-4). He...(Rom. 5:8). People like me need God's mercy as much as did Saul the Pharisee, and I am glad that what happened to Saul is recorded in the Bible, so that I know the real reason why God loves me - and you!
[from The Truth in Love, no. 28, July 19, 1992, p. 1]

WHY ME?
(I Tim. 1:13-16)
Often we hear Christians ask this question when some calamity or disaster has brought intense personal grief to them. We may understand this reaction in terms of our human nature and seek the explanations which may comfort us, even though the particular cause of our distress cannot be restored.

When we became Christians by believing in Jesus, turning to God in repentance, and by submitting to baptism for the forgiveness of our sins (Acts 2:36-38), we still remain bodily, emotionally, and physically the same as we were before and the same as everybody else. At conversion, no one is whisked off to heaven immediately to evade the tribulations of this world. Jesus told his apostles that...(John 16:33). He told them this in anticipation of his own suffering, death, resurrection and return to heaven - leaving them behind to carry on his work of...(Mark 1:14; cf. Matt. 28:18-20). But Jesus also told them to...(John 16:33).

Take Heart!

Notice that Jesus told his apostles to "take heart", despite remaining in a world in which they would continue to have trouble. The reason they should be buoyed up by Jesus' encouragement is that he had "overcome the world" and that, soon, he would...(Heb. 2:14-15).

The same apostles were distraught when Jesus was arrested and crucified, and each of them may have wondered, "why me?" Their beloved Master had been taken from them and killed, and it seemed that all their hopes (misguided as these were at the time - Luke 24:21) had been dashed forever. The apostles had willingly given up so much of their lives during the three years they devoted to Jesus - was it all for nothing? But, above all, they had lost the One who had come to mean so much to them.

When those apostles saw Jesus after his resurrection, they were, at first, "startled and frightened" and then they were "troubled" and "doubts arose in their minds" but, at last, they experienced "joy and amazement" (Luke 24:37-41). This transformation in the apostles never left them as they went about telling people everywhere about the risen Christ and his gospel of love and salvation.

No doubt the apostles had many occasions to remember when Jesus had told people to "take heart" despite private sufferings. Consider some such occasions recorded in the gospels:

1. Jesus told a paralysed man...(Matt. 9:2). We don't know the full circumstances of what troubled this man apart from his paralysis; but we can be sure that Jesus knew (Matt. 9:4, cf. John 2:25) what his greatest need was and dealt with it first.

2. In the same chapter (Matt. 9:22), Jesus told a chronically ill woman who sought his healing to "take heart, daughter, your faith has healed you". Her immediate need for physical relief was met, because she had the faith to trust in Jesus.

3. One night, when his apostles were terrified of the unnatural sight of Jesus walking on the water towards their boat, he reassured them by saying...(Matt. 14:27).

Jesus did not forgive everyone around him wherever he went, he did not heal everyone who was sick in the land while he was on earth, and he did not perform miracles with nature every day. The quoted examples simply illustrate the power that Jesus had over sin, sickness and nature; in other words, he was "God with us" (Matt. 1:23). No one else could do the same things Jesus did, then or at any time before and since. So, whether we are distressed by our sins (he can forgive us), or troubled by illness (he can help us), or disturbed by natural events (he can calm us), we know that God is in control.

Forgiven of sins (Matt. 9:2)

Like the apostle Paul, we may have been burdened with deep anxieties about terrible sin in our lives, and we may feel that God has turned his back on us, and that we are so bad that nothing can restore our souls (it is true, too, that many people are not concerned about sin - Rom. 1:28-32).

But we can learn from the example God has given us of the apostle Paul's experience. Paul felt he had been "the worst of sinners" and yet, in being forgiven by God (Acts 22:16), he was an example of what Christ could do for anyone else who believed on him (I Tim. 1:15-16). "Take heart!" No one is so bad that God won't forgive that person who believes (Acts 16:31), turns to God in repentance and submits to baptism (Acts 2:38) in obedience to God's will (Acts 5:32).

Help in sickness (Matt. 9:22)

Another example from the apostle Paul's life is preserved in the scriptures to help us understand God's will in sickness. Paul described the time he had "a thorn in my flesh...to torment me". It was so bad that he pleaded with God three times to take it away from him. But it was God's will not to accede to Paul's desperate pleas. God answered his prayers (as he always answers the prayers of the righteous - I John 5:14-15; James 5:16-17) by telling him...(II Cor. 12:7-10). Paul learned to accept God's will. We know that healing of sickness was used by Jesus to testify to his divine authority (John 5:36), and the healings performed by his apostles testified that...(Mark 16:20). Thus miraculous healing of sickness was not used for personal benefit (e.g., Timothy and Trophimus - I Tim. 5:23; II Tim. 4:20). God may use our sickness for good purposes, as Paul wrote to his Galatian brethren...(Gal. 4:13). In apostolic times some others were given special gifts, such as "gifts of healing" (I Cor. 12:9) which never failed to...(James 5:14-15). The period of special gifts ceased (I Cor. 13:8; cf. John 20:30-31).

Calm in all circumstances (Matt. 14:27)

Again, take the divinely-preserved example of Paul's life in which he was so often beset by external threats, either natural or man-made. He described being...(II Cor. 11:23-28).

Paul wrote from prison in Rome to his brethren in the church at Philippi and told them...(Phili. 4:11-13). He could commend these brethren that "it was good of you to share in my troubles", and say to them...(Phili. 4:14-19).

Why me?

Look at all the examples of faithful men and women in the Bible. Read again Heb. 11. Let us do as Jesus urges: "Take heart!" No matter what the circumstances may be. He forgives us when we ask him (I John 1:9). He helps us learn that his grace is sufficient for us in times of sickness and bereavement through the care of loving brethren (II Cor. 1:3-6). In all else, remember Jesus' promise...(John 16:33).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 28, July 19, 1992, p. 2-3, 12-13]

JESUS...CROWNED WITH GLORY AND HONOUR
(Heb. 2:9-10)
God said...(Gen. 1:26b). In so doing, God made man (Heb. 2:7; quoting Psa. 8:5). The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are the one name (Matt. 28:19) shared in creation (Gen. 1:1-2, 26; John 1:1-3; Heb. 1:10) and planned our salvation (I Pet. 1:2).

The Son humbled himself to appear as the man Jesus Christ (Phili. 2:5-8; Rom. 1:3; I Tim. 2:5) who also bore the name "Immanuel" which means "God with us" (Matt. 1:23). Further, we are told that...(II Cor. 8:9). The Son was made like us (Heb. 2:9). Only God could plan and execute the way of salvation for us. No man was adequate to be the Saviour of mankind, and only God becoming man could achieve our salvation (II Tim. 1:8-10; Rom. 3:21-25).

The Son (Heb. 2:14-15).

In observing the Lord's Supper we remind ourselves of the great sacrifice Jesus made, first, by becoming poor like us and, second, by tasting death for everyone. In his victory over death he has freed us from enslavement to Satan and brought us into the presence of the Father. Praise his name!
[from The Truth in Love, no. 28, July 19, 1992, p. 7]

JESUS, THE PREACHER (I Pet. 2:21-25)
1. Jesus preached with authority. (Matt. 7:29; John 7:46)
2. Jesus preached with conviction. (Matt. 5:18; John 17:4)
3. Jesus commended all good. (Matt. 22:37-39)
4. Jesus condemned all evil. (Matt. 7:17-19)
5. Jesus offered a remedy for sin. (Mark 16:16)

We should preach with Jesus' authority ("in his name") and with his conviction; commend all that he commended; condemn all that he condemned; and always point people to Jesus' remedy for sin (Acts 10:34-43).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 28, July 19, 1992, p. 9]

WAIT FOR YOUR GOD ALWAYS
(Hosea 12:1, 6)
In Palestine the east wind blows hot off the desert, the scorching 'sirocco' which withers crops and dries up streams. And so, figuratively, the people of God were seeking help in the wrong direction. Instead of relying on God's strength, they were relying on shifty neighbours and on their own resources without God's direction and guidance. Thus they would get only as much value from their efforts as they would from growing crops in the 'sirocco' season.

The people of Israel (Ephraim) tried to make alliances with both the Assyrians to their north and the Egyptians to the south. They hoped to hedge their chances against being let down by one or the other. In due time they were let down badly by both (II Kings 17:1-6).

The Bible, composed by God's writers over a period of many centuries, repeatedly gives the same message for God's favour - "Return to God, maintain love and justice, and wait for your God always" - yet how much is the Bible message respected and heeded? Have we learned that hard lesson in view of all the examples before us? How well do we practise God's principles?

The lessons from Hosea's day apply to the Christians of today also. Let us be careful to avoid relying on men and our own strength to achieve what God has already appointed. Rather, let us be patient to "wait for God always", even when things seem to be going too slowly or in the wrong direction - as our opinions might suggest. In the observance of our Lord's Supper in remembrance of him and in proclaiming his death until he comes, we may be impatient and think it won't happen (II Pet. 3:3-4), or misconstrue the scriptures to teach a past fulfillment (II Thes. 2:1-2). "Wait for God always".
[from The Truth in Love, no. 29, July 26, 1992, p. 7]

THE STRESSFUL 'TEEN' YEARS (Prov. 30:11)

A common concern among many families is the problem of those years of burgeoning adolescence which subject young people and their parents to so much stress. This is not a new affliction; it has always been - ever since young Cain killed his younger brother Abel, causing his parents so much grief (Gen. 4). For many teenagers emotions are difficult to control and immaturity makes for impulsive and unwise decisions. The advice of parents, formerly accepted without question, is often disregarded and quarrels ensue. Children accuse their parents of lack of understanding and parents, in turn, accuse their children of lack of gratitude for the years of sacrifices made for them. Children hit back, saying they did not ask to be born; and parents painfully wonder why they raised them and where did their parenting go wrong!

There is no easy, pat answer to this dilemma. While we expect bad parenting to produce bad children, it may not be possible to explain why good parenting is sometimes unfairly rewarded with problem adolescents. Godly parents, conscientiously raising their children (Eph. 6:4), may be confronted by children who do not...(Eph. 6:1).

As in the story of "The Prodigal Son" (Luke 15:11-32), young people begin to feel the call to independence and struggle against the continuing protective constraints of their parents. Inevitably, sooner or later, parents are forced to give in and let go, hoping against hope that their loved children will come to no lasting harm in experimenting with life beyond the security of home. We can imagine the unending anguish in the heart of the prodigal's father, wondering what was happening to his boy in that far country. Fortunately, while father waited, the boy came to his senses following bitter experiences and returned home. There, his father had been waiting and watching for him and received him with open arms of love. Do our children know we love them?

We have all turned away from our loving heavenly Father and he sent his only Son to call us back to him. Come home while you can and he will receive you in love (Rom. 5:6-10).
[[from The Truth in Love, no. 26, July 5, 1992, p. 1]

EAT WHAT IS GOOD
(Isa. 55:1-2)
Isa. 55 is full of marvellous promises which have comforted and encouraged a countless number of people down the ages. It flows so beautifully in the reading that any commentary on it seems superfluous. All of these promises, of course, have been made possible through the fulfillment of God's key promise in this chapter...(Isa. 55:3). In quoting this passage to the Jews in Pisidian Antioch (Acts 13:34), the apostle Paul declared that God raised Jesus from the dead in fulfillment of this assurance. And it was because of this that Paul concluded his address...(Acts 13:32-38). Long before Isaiah's day, God had made this promise to King David...(II Sam. 7).

As a consequence of what God has done through his Son, and of what he has accomplished for those who believe, we can know the fulfillment of God's word to...(Isa. 55:10). And the apostle Paul quoted this promise in writing to Christians, showing that...(II Cor. 9:8-10).

Because of what Jesus did for us on the cross, we can...(Isa. 55:12). Think on these things while we eat the break and drink the fruit of the vine around the Lord's table. In so doing, we are eating and drinking what is good for us in remembering Christ's body given for us and his blood shed for us (I Cor. 11:23-26).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 26, July 5, 1992, p. 7]

JUST TELL US ABOUT JESUS (John 12:20-21)

Sometimes the preacher is told "Just tell us about Jesus". This request may be prompted when a preacher talks about almost anything without reference to the scriptures. In this case, the request is justified (II Tim. 4:2-5). In fact, if such a preacher is in the habit of doing this regularly or will not change, he ought to be dismissed and replaced. Be sure your preacher is one who is...(I Tim. 4:6) and so gives attention to...(I Tim. 4:13).

On the other hand, faithful preachers who constantly...(II Tim. 4:2) may be told "Just tell us about Jesus" by some who don't want to hear "the whole will of God" (Acts 20:27), but rather stories about Jesus in the gospels. The reason for this request may be from ignorance or from uneasiness.

If the reason is ignorance, the preacher should explain that the whole of the word of God was caused to be written by "the Spirit of Christ within them" (prophets of the Old Testament) and...(I Pet. 1:11-12). Regrettably, the modern practice of having Bibles "with the words of Christ in red" tends to foster the mistaken notion that these are the only important parts of the Bible. In fact, the rest printed in black are also the words of Christ. So, a preacher who quotes from any part of the Bible is indeed telling us about Jesus, if we have learned how to listen.

Often the reason for saying "Just tell us about Jesus" comes from uneasiness with the messages from the rest of the Bible. Such requesters think that the stories of Jesus in the gospels are lovely and pleasant to hear. And so they are; but, the same requesters don't want the preacher to say everything that Jesus said and did which might embarrass or challenge them. Often we hear people say that we only need to hear "the Sermon on the Mount" and, usually, only those parts that don't upset them!
[from The Truth in Love, no. 25, June 28, 1992, p. 1]

CHRISTIAN LIVING
Peace
1. As Christians, will we always get on well with non-Christians? (II Tim. 3:12; Matt. 10:34-36)
2. If we don't have peace in this world, what sort of peace can we still have? (Rom. 5:1; John 16:33)
3. Should we try to live at peace with all men? (Rom. 12:18)
4. Should we obey the government? (Rom. 13:1-2; I Pet. 2:13-14)
5. Should we still obey the government even if the government orders us to do something wrong? (Acts 5:27-29)

Joy
6. Was Jesus always cheerful when he saw wicked things happening? (Luke 19:41-44)
7. As Christians, will we always be cheerful? (Rom. 9:1-3; II Cor. 11:28-29; II Cor. 2:4; Phili. 3:18)
8. As Christians, even if some things make us unhappy, what are some reasons that we can be joyful? (Luke 10:20; I Pet. 4:13; Heb. 10:34; James 1:2-3; Rom. 5:2; Rom. 5:11; Matt. 5:11-12)

Teaching
9. Why is it good to read the Scriptures? (II Tim. 3:16-17; Acts 17:11; II Tim. 2:15; Matt. 4:4; Acts 20:32; I Pet. 2:2; II Pet. 3:18)
10. Why do we need to tell other people about God's word? (Rom. 10:13-14; Rom. 10:17)
11. Does every Christian need to be ready to tell other people about God? (I Pet. 3:15; Rev. 22:17; Acts 8:4)
12. What should our attitude be, when we teach other people about God? (II Tim. 2:24-25; Col. 4:5-6; Matt. 10:16; I Thes. 2:7; Eph. 4:15; II Tim. 4:2)
13. What sorts of ways will people react, when we tell them about God? (Acts 17:32-34; Luke 8:4-8; Luke 8:11-15)
14. What other ways should we try to teach people, apart from using words? (I Pet. 3:1; I Tim. 4:12; I Thes. 1:7-8; Phili. 3:17)

Prayer
15. What are some things that we can ask for, when we pray? (Matt. 6:11; Acts 8:22; James 1:5; Acts 4:29; Rom. 10:1; I Tim. 2:1-2; Matt. 6:12; Prov. 8:17; Phili. 1:9-11; Eph. 6:18-19; Matt. 5:44)
16. If I pray asking God to provide me with food, can I just sit back and wait for it to arrive, or do I also need to do something myself? (II Thes. 3:10-12)
17. If I pray asking God to give me wisdom, can I just sit back and wait for it to arrive, or do I also need to do something myself? (II Tim. 3:15; Prov. 2:1-5; Psa. 19:7)
18. If I am a Christian, and I pray asking for things that God approves of, can I be confident that my prayers will be answered? (I John 5:14; I John 3:21-22)
19. Does God always do everything that Christians ask him to do? (II Cor. 12:7-9)
20. Does God always do what is best for us? (Matt. 7:11; James 1:17; Rom. 8:28)
21. What are some things that we can thank God for, when we pray? (I Chron. 16:41; I Cor. 15:57; Phili. 1:3-5; I Cor. 1:4)

As Christians, we can't expect to be always at peace with other people, or always joyful about the things that other people are doing; but we can always have peace with God and be joyful about our blessings from God. We should always be ready to tell other people about God; and we should pray to God in ways that will please him.
[from The Truth in Love, no. 25, June 28, 1992, p. 4-6]

MY SOUL THIRSTS FOR GOD
(Psa. 42:1-3)
The first Chapter of Genesis records that...(Gen. 1:26). And...(Rom. 1:20). But, as the rest of Rom. 1 shows, human beings have chosen to ignore God and go their own way. Jesus said to the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well...(John 4:10-14).

Though many scorn to acknowledge God (Acts 17:16-33; II Pet. 3:3-4), some are...(Luke 8:15) who...(Matt. 5:6). The apostle Paul was dismayed by the worldliness and ungodliness all around, and even among those in the church, and so he wrote...(Phili. 1:23-24).

The psalmist went on to ask...(Psa. 42:11).

As we break bread today in memory of our Lord's death we are proclaiming our trust in him who is the source of our salvation and who is the living water who sustains us spiritually. In the weekly observance of the Lord's Supper, we "put our hope in God" and encourage each other to praise him for his great love.
[from The Truth in Love, no. 25, June 28, 1992, p. 7]

REDEMPTION BY JESUS CHRIST (Rom. 3:21-24)

The Jews had an advantage by being entrusted with the word of God, but they did not put their faith in God. Instead, they tried to observe the law by personal effort and expected God to favour them. They missed the purpose of the Law which was to make them conscious of sin and to recognise that they could not be accounted righteous by working at observing the Law (Rom. 3:20). In this the Jews were no different to the Gentiles, and all are sinners (Rom. 3:9).

No one can rightly criticise God's justice nor question his faithfulness, because these divine attributes are not nullified by mankind's faithlessness and unrighteousness (Rom. 3:5-8). On the other hand, the Jews should have known (and some did) that righteousness from God comes through faith, not through works. The Law and the Prophets constantly testified to this fact (Rom. 3:21). In his forbearance, God left unpunished the sins committed before Christ's sacrifice of atonement (Rom. 3:25). He had accounted as righteous those who believed in him and their forgiveness of sins was ratified in the death of Christ (Heb. 9:15).

The salvation of the righteous who lived before Christ, and the salvation of the righteous who have lived since, are through the same faith. The righteous who died before Christ...(Heb. 11:39-40). And that "something better" was made possible only by Christ's death and resurrection. This is what we commemorate each first day of the week in the Lord's Supper, praise his name.
[from The Truth in Love, no. 23, June 14, 1992, p. 7]

WHAT SHALL I DO WITH JESUS? (Matt. 27:15-22)

1. Persecute him? The Jewish leaders felt Jesus threatened their status quo. To Pharisee Saul on the Damascus Road, Jesus said, "Why persecute me?" (Acts 9:4)
2. Ignore him? Governor Pilate tried to be neutral and indifferent. Jesus told him...(John 19:11). On another occasion Jesus said...(Matt. 12:30).
3. Forsake him? Jesus' disciples were timid followers and deserted him. In the garden, "they all left him and fled" (Matt. 26:56). Jesus had said previously...(Matt. 24:13).
4. Deny him? The apostle Peter was overconfident and impetuous. Jesus had said before...(Matt. 10:33).
5. Betray him? The apostle Judas was ambitious and thwarted. Jesus perceived that "some of you (followers) do not believe" and he knew "who would betray him" (John 6:64).
6. Reject him? The crowd was insensitive and suggestible. Jesus warned them that...(John 12:48).
7. Receive him? The crowd on the day of Pentecost were made thoughtful and reflective by the apostle Peter's appeal (Acts 2:36-41).
[from The Truth in Love, no. 23, June 14, 1992, p. 9]

JESUS, THE MAN
(Acts 17:30-31)
Thus the apostle Paul declared to the Gentile philosophers and others in the place in the ancient city of Athens, where such people were wont to meet to talk and to hear new things. What was their response to Paul's astounding statement? (Acts 17:32).

The Australia-wide newspaper, "The Australian" had an article in its issue of Saturday, May 30, announcing the release of Sydney theologian Dr. Barbara Thiering's new book, Jesus the Man. In this book she describes her research to show that Jesus was only a man from among the Essene Jewish sect who tried to open the elitist and exclusive faith to women and minority groups formerly shut out of the community. For this he was hated and persecuted by his peers. Dr. Thiering used a special translation technique to understand the gospel writings in terms of a sort of "cryptic crossword", where everything is explained, not in literal terms, but symbols. Thus Mary is called a virgin, but virgin means a "nun", betrothed to Joseph who, according to this explanation, was "the Holy Spirit". Thus Jesus' birth was not miraculous. Dr. Thiering goes on to say that though Jesus was crucified, he did not die, but recovered in the tomb under the ministration of his disciples and lived to a good old age.

These are not new assertions. They keep being "resurrected" in new guises every so often since the beginning (Matt. 27:62-66; Matt. 28:11-15). The problem with Dr. Thiering's theories is that it is implied that the original writers of the New Testament were liars. Luke, for example, who wrote both the gospel of his name and the book of Acts, makes it quite clear that the Gentiles in Athens were meant to understand Paul's reference to the resurrection of Jesus literally. Hence, Luke's gospel account of the death and resurrection of Jesus must also be understood literally. And, by association, the other gospel records must be so understood.

Science falsely so-called
(I Tim. 6:20-21)

In the same issue of "The Australian" newspaper there was an editorial concerning the errors of expert forensic scientists which had been accepted as fact and led to the conviction of Mrs. Lindy Chamberlain of the murder of her baby. Subsequently, the conviction was quashed when it was found that the so-called foetal blood under the dashboard of the Chamberlain car was really a bitumen-based sealant, and that the so-called bloodied handprint on the baby's jumpsuit was in fact imprints of red sand! The editorial commented: "The Chamberlain trial showed the weakness of ignoring eyewitnesses in favour of scientific evidence."

The same comment might be applied to Dr. Theiring's scientific study of the Dead Sea Scrolls and the scriptures. Her conclusions also show "the weakness of ignoring eyewitnesses in favour of scientific evidence".

Dr. Thiering says the "to die" means "to be excommunicated" and that "raised from the dead" means "to be reinstated". But this is not what the apostles meant when they told people...(Acts 2:32). They accused their fellow-Jews of having...(Acts 3:15). The apostle Peter told the Gentile household of the Roman centurian, Cornelius, that the Jews had put Jesus...(Acts 10:39-41). Were the apostles liars? What would a "symbolic" death and resurrection mean to Gentiles, if not to the Jews? How could a "symbolic" death and resurrection of Jesus be "proof to all men" (Acts 17:31) of anything?

When Jesus told the Jews...(John 10:30-33). The Jews did not misunderstand Jesus (cf. John 5:17-18; John 8:58-59). And the writer of this gospel was not a liar (John 21:24). Why not believe him?
[from The Truth in Love, no. 23, June 14, 1992, p. 10-11]

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