THE MARLBORO MAN IS DEAD
The handsome and rugged model for the macho smoker has succumbed to lung cancer. He was 51. You remember him. He had the patriotic eagle tattooed on his right hand and rode the range punching cows like real men once did in the Old West. And he did something else the tobacco manufacturers would have consumers think was a he-man thing to do: he smoked.

What many of us didn't know was that he spent the last three years of his life warning others of dangers of smoking. Though it was too late for him, he thought that if he could just keep one young person from starting, or get a smoker to stop, it would be worth whatever the cost. He was a convincing spokesman. He knew all too well the price to be paid for becoming enslaved to such a nasty habit, regardless of how the advertisers romanticized it.

We applaud the model's change of heart and eagerness to rectify the lie that was portrayed in all those years of ads. Implied in those commercials was the notion of freedom and enjoyment and fresh air. Fresh air indeed, no cigarette advertisers ever showed a smoke-filled room of emaciated hackers delivering up their burnt offerings to the god of tobacco.

The tragedy of the Marlboro man reminds us not to let anyone or anything have control over us except the Spirit of Christ. Our bodies are a temple. This is especially true if we are Christians. Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. As such, they should be honored and respected, not defiled or destroyed foolishly.
[from Kissimmee, Fla. church of Christ bulletin via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 14, 1995, p. 4]

A LITTLE BIT OF SUGAR INSIDE
A mother hugged her six-year-old daughter. She asked Laurie, "What makes you so sweet?" The little girl answered, "I think when God made me, He put a little bit of sugar inside."
Listen to the advice of Jesus...(Luke 6:38).
He tells us that goodness returns dividends. His thought is echoes in Prov. 21:21.
[by Betty Tucker from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 21, 1995, p. 3]

BE QUIET, AND LISTEN TO GOD!
God had the Psalmist say...(Psa. 46:10). And further, Habakkuk said...(Hab. 2:20).

To be quiet means to slow down in your life enough so that you are not dominated by human activity. Some are unable to be quiet, because they have thirty-six hours of activity packed into every twenty-four hour day! They have so filled their life with earthly activities that there is no time to take in any more messages.

To be quiet means to refuse to let your own feelings and attitudes dominate your life. This kind of person is so tuned in to himself that there is no room for openness to tune in to anything or anyone else - God included! For such a person, being tuned in to his own feelings is a thin disguise for simple selfishness.

To be quiet means to stop justifying what you are doing because you are caught by circumstances beyond your control. Blaming others, blaming circumstances, blaming God - all of these things help keep a person from being quiet before God.

To listen to God means to get into the scripture (II Tim. 3:16-17). It means to pay attention to the truth once delivered to all the saints (Jude 3). It means to reject the religious traditions and doctrines of men. It means to know His book.

To listen to God means to meditate upon His law, so that you find the practical application in daily living that God, in scripture, intends.

To listen to God means to refuse to let feelings, intuitions, and inexplicable events make the written Word void! Dreams, omens, cloud formations, and strange voices do not change the written Word. Even a good conscience does not change the Word.

To listen to God involves an openness to apply God's written will to one's life. One argues, another seeks to understand. One avoids, another seeks to apply. One delays, another seeks to implement.

To be quiet and listen to God means to get into the Bible, the Word of God, and obey it.
[by Bill Keele from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 21, 1995, p. 3]

BROKEN DREAMS
As children bring their broken toys
With tears for us to mend,
I brought my broken dreams to God
Because He was my friend.

But then instead of leaving Him
in peace to work alone
I hung around and tried to help
With ways that were my own.

At last I snatched them back
And cried, "How can You be so slow?"
"My child," He said, "what could I do?
You never did let go."
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 21, 1995, p. 3]

I THANK THEE, LORD
I thank Thee, Lord, for all the things
I take for granted every day
Please help me show my gratitude
in everything I do and say.

The very air I'm breathing now,
the flowers, birds, and trees,
the beauty that surrounds us all,
I thank Thee, Lord, for these.

For all the friends and loved ones
I met on life's pathway,
and especially for Thy endless love,
I thank Thee every day!
[by Doris A. Orth from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 21, 1995, p. 3]

WHO AM I?
Can you identify me? Read each clue and think carefully. If you guess my name after the first clue, give yourself a score of 100 points. If you know who I am only after the fifth clue, your score is 60, etc. When you are sure of my identity, look up the passages of scripture following each clue to verify the facts from God's word. I am a good example to follow as a Christian.

1. I lived in the first century A.D.
2. I was described as a wise person of good reputation (Acts 6:3).
3. I was a very godly, spiritual person, said to be "full of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5).
4. My particular work in the Jerusalem church was to look after the needs of widows (Acts 6:1).
5. At the time I was chosen to do this work, the apostles laid their hands on me, giving me special power to do miracles (Acts 6:6-8).
6. Because I preached powerfully that Jesus is the Christ of God, some Jewish leaders aroused a mob against me (Acts 6:9-12).
7. The sermon I preached in response was a review of Jewish history, showing that everything pointed to the coming of the Christ (Acts 7).
8. The mob was so angry they gnashed at me with their teeth and then picked up stones to kill me for blasphemy (Acts 7:54-57).
9. I gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God (Acts 7:55).
10. I was the first one to die for Jesus. Like our Lord, my dying prayer was, "Lord, do not charge them with this sin." The cloaks of my executioners were placed in the care of a young man called Saul (Acts 7:57-60).
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 21, 1995, p. 4]

THE CHURCH IS US
Speaking of the citizens of the Kingdom of heaven, Jesus said...(Matt. 5:13-14). He then urged His disciples...(Matt. 5:16). He urges simply that his followers function as a distinctive and saving influence in the world.

The Kingdom of God's dear Son is made up of men and women, boys and girls, that have been translated out of darkness. They have been reconciled unto God through the blood of Christ. These reconciled ones also have come to a post of duty. They are called by God to personify and to proclaim the gospel of Christ to the world.

In any community members of the body represent the Kingdom in that community. It is obvious that in a given place the body can never be more effective nor dynamic than the individuals that compose it. In simple terms, if we belong to Christ, we represent Him. Our neighbors and friends and others see us. It is our faith and our love, our devotion and our commitment that the world observes. It is only as we consistently and effectively personify and proclaim our Lord that His body is able to function effectively. In even simpler terms, if the church is a warm caring fellowship it will be so only if we are warm and caring. If the Church is growing spiritually and numerically it will be so only as we are studying, sharing, praising, following and encouraging others to do so. If it is a generous and liberal body it will be so only as you and I give liberally and sacrificially to the work of the Lord. If it is a spiritually strong, biblically sound body it will be so because you and I are, above all else, committed to the word of God. If it is a soul-winning body, it will be so because you and I are daily proclaiming and personifying Christ. The church is us.
[by Ron Bryant, Camelback Christian Chronical, Phoenix, Ariz. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Apr. 2, 1995, p. 3]

WHO AM I?
Can you identify me? Read each clue and think carefully. If you guess my name after the first clue, give yourself a score of 100 points. If you know who I am only after the fifth clue, your score is 60, etc. When you are sure of my identity, look up the passages of scripture following each clue to verify the facts from God's word. I am a good example to follow as one who was obedient to God.
1. When God called me to be His prophet, I said, "Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak for I am a youth." (Jer. 1:6).
2. During my time, the people of Israel worshipped idols, saying to a tree, "You are my father" and to a stone, "You gave birth to me." (Jer. 2:27).
3. I grieved for Israel saying, "O my soul, my soul! I am pained in my very heart...Destruction upon destruction is cried for the whole land is plundered." (Jer. 4:19-20).
4. When drought, famine, and hardship came upon the land, I said these words from God: "Your iniquities have turned these things away, and your sins have withheld good things from you. (Jer. 5:24-25).
5. God was so angry with the people of Israel because of their unfaithfulness to Him that He said to me, "Do not pray for this people, nor lift up a cry or prayer for them, nor make intercession to me: for I will not hear you." (Jer. 7:16).
6. God's words were like a burning fire, shut up in my bones, and I could not refrain from speaking (Jer. 22:9).
7. I prophesied of the new covenant God would make with His people through the Messiah (Jer. 31:31-34).
8. I prophesied of the Messiah (Jer. 23:5-6).
9. I wrote two books in the Old Testament.
10. I was known as the weeping prophet.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Apr. 2, 1995, p. 4]

15 PRINCIPLES OF CHURCH GROWTH WE OBSERVE IN THE EARLY CHURCH
To grow as God would have us to grow, we need to use the early church, the church of the New Testament, as our pattern. Below are some of the principles of growth that were present in the early church.

* The mission was to save souls.
* They sought to keep souls saved.
* There was a sense of urgency about their mission.
* There was a tremendous emphasis on prayer.
* Workers were enlisted and responsibility delegated.
* Everyone's talents were utilized.
* Leaders were appointed.
* They attracted the multitudes.
* Members were willing to work hard to overcome obstacles.
* There was great unity in the church.
* The message was spread widely.
* God was given the credit and praise.
* There was a great personal work program.
* There were outstanding soul-winning teachers and leaders.
* There were steady and continuous programs for growth.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 7, 1995, p. 3]

"I have fought the good fight; I have finished my course; I have kept the faith."

As a result a heavenly prize awaited him. But Paul did not fight alone. The Lord stood by and strengthened him (II Tim. 4:16-18). Sincere brethren like Silas, Luke, Barnabas, Titus and Timothy encouraged the Apostle to the Gentiles. Myriads of faithful brethren, like the Macedonians, bolstered Paul's enthusiasm for things divine. Truly, "each by the other's faith" (Rom. 1:11), marching shoulder to shoulder, they grew in the grace and knowledge of the Savior (II Pet. 3:18).

We do not have to cross Jordan alone, and we certainly do not walk this barren desert of life by ourselves either.

I thank God for the stout-hearted men and women of God who have encouraged me to press on as a Christian. They more than make up for the petty, shallow folk who tend to dishearten and tear down. How long has it been since you encouraged an elder or preacher or Bible teacher with a word of spiritual uplift? There is plenty of room left for encouragement.
[by Johnny Ramsey from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 7, 1995, p. 4]

A SURE WAY TO A HAPPY DAY
Happiness is something we create in our mind,
It's not something you search for and so seldom find.
It's just waking up and beginning the day,
By counting your blessings, by kneeling to pray.
It's giving up thoughts that breed discontent,
And accepting what comes as a gift heaven sent.
It's giving up wishing for things we have not,
And making the best of whatever we've got.
It's knowing our task without fret, fume or fuss,
For it's by completing what God gives us to do,
That we find real contentment and happiness too.
[by Helen Steiner Rice from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Mar. 12, 1995, p. 4]

When I have time, the friend I love so well
Shall know no more these weary toiling ways;
I'll lead her feet in pleasant paths always,
And cheer her heart with words of sweetest praise
When I have time.

Now is the time! Ah, friend, no longer wait
To scatter loving smiles and words of cheer
To those around whose lives are now so drear,
They may not meet you in the coming year
Now is the time!
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Mar. 12, 1995, p. 3]

THE POWER OF ONE RIGHTEOUS PERSON
How much the wicked owe to the righteous! For the sake of God's people, blessings have been given to the utterly undeserving, and judgments have been averted from those who otherwise would have perished. What a difference one righteous person can make! Consider these real-life cases:

Laban recognized the Lord had blessed him with many flocks because of Jacob (Gen. 30:27).
Potipher prospered because of Joseph who was charged with managing his household and all that he owned (Gen. 39:5).
God would have forgiven the sin of Jerusalem if one honest, truth-seeking person had been found (Jer. 5:1).
God rescued all who were traveling to Rome by ship with Paul because of Paul (Acts 27:24).
Due to the persistent pleas of one righteous man, Sodom and Gomorrah could have been spared if just ten righteous persons had been found in just one of those cities (Gen. 18:32).

Speaking of the wicked citizens of Sodom and Gomorrah, F.B. Meyer wrote, "Ungodly men little realize how much they owe to the presence of the children of God in their midst. Long ere now had the floods of deserved wrath swept them all away; but judgment has been restrained, because God could not do anything while the righteous were found amongst them. The impatient servants have often asked if they should not gather out the tares. But the answer of the righteous Lord has ever been: "Nay, lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up the wheat also with them." Ah, how little the world realizes that debt it owes to its saints, the salt to stay its corruption, the light to arrest the re-institution of the reign of chaos and night!"
[by Kerry W. Holton, Roswell, NM from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Mar. 12, 1995, p. 3]

WHERE DID THE DEVIL COME FROM?
(Col. 1:15-16).
What happened to the angels who sinned?
(II Pet. 2:4; Rev. 12:9). Satan and angels hurled to earth
(Jude 6).
(I Cor. 15:14). Jesus will reign until he puts all enemies under his feet.
What kind of power does the devil have? (John 14:30). Ruler of this world. (Heb. 2:8). At present we do not see everything subject to him.
(Eph. 6:12). Rulers of darkness of this age.
We wrestle against spiritual hosts of wickedness in heavenly places.
(Eph. 2:2). Prince of the power of the air, working in sons of disobedience.
(Eph. 2:3). He causes us to fulfil desires of the flesh and mind.
(II Tim. 2:26). Taking people captive to do his will...the argumentative foolish ignorant disputes.
(II Cor. 4:4). The god of this age has blinded the minds to the gospel.
(Heb. 2:14). Holds power of death.
Things scripture says Satan had people do:
(John 13:2). Caused Judas to betray Jesus.
(I Chron. 21:1). Incited David to take a census.
(Acts 5:3). Caused Ananias to lie.

Job. God allowed him to have power over all Job possessed. Robbers took away oxen, donkeys, killed servants, caused lightning to fall from heaven, burned up the sheep and servants. Took away camels, killed servants. Caused a great wind to strike the house where his children were, it fell and crushed them. Allowed Satan to strike Job with painful boils.

Asked permission to sift Peter like wheat.
(Luke 13:16). Kept a woman bound for 18 years.
(I Cor. 7:5). Tempts you to sin sexually.
(II Cor. 11:14). Masquerades as an angel of light.
(II Cor. 12:7). Gave Paul a thorn in the flesh.
(I Thes. 2:18). Kept Paul from coming to them when he wanted to.
(II Thes. 2:9). Can do counterfeit miracles, signs, wonders.
How to handle Satan
(James 4:7). Resist and he will flee.
(Eph. 6:11). Put on whole armour.
Angels appeared as men, can sleep and eat.
Plan of the silver-tongued devil. Workers for the devil say "God won't let you be sick, poor, or bad things happen"
This world is not ruled by God. Satan called the Prince of this world.
(John 14:30). Ruler of this world is coming.
(Eph. 6:12). Riches in heavenly realms.
(Eph. 2:2). Once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience.
(Col. 1:15-16). All things created by Jesus and for Him, useable and invisible, principalities, powers, made good angels and bad angels (not bad when He made them).
(Heb. 2:8). Left nothing not subject to Jesus. At present we do not see everything subject to Him.
(I Cor. 15:24). The end will come, Jesus hands over kingdom, will reign until he puts all enemies under his feet.
(Dan. 10). Prayed 24 days, angel comes, sent to bring you a message. I came opposed by the prince. Cannot kill each other, but can feel pain. They fight 21 days. Michael, archangel, was sent. They fight 3 more days.
(Rev. 12). Dragon is Satan. To devour the child, Michael sent, intercepts dragon.
Some angels turn bad, work for Satan.
(Eze. 28:11). About King of Tyre, a vain man "I am a god" Told like king was in Garden of Eden. You a model of perfection, perfect in beauty. Stand in presence of God, anointed as guardian, cherub, blameless, created till wickedness, arrogance found in you. Was expelled on account of your vanity.
(Eze. 28:17). Become proud on account of your beauty
God did not spare the angels who sinned but cast them down to hell.
(II Pet. 2:4). Led angels away from God.
(Jude 6). Angels did not keep proper domain. Left their habitation are resumed in everlasting chains under darkness for the judgment of the great day.
(II Tim. 2:26). Taken people captives to do His will.
(II Cor. 4:4). God of this age, blinded mind.
(Eph. 2:2).
(Luke 22:31). Do something to Peter - sift as wheat.
(Acts 5:3). Satan filled Ananias's heart to lie to the Holy Spirit.
Job 42 says God caused all his woes because He allowed it.

SAY IT NOW
Why wait until tomorrow to tell someone you care?
For beyond the dawn tomorrow, you may not find them there.
The past now lies behind us, and tomorrow may not come.
We only have today, my friend, to beat upon life's drum.

Friend, why not say, "I love you!" to those that you hold dear,
For time is such a fragile thing that death may soon appear.
Let others know you love them so there's never a doubt.
The best time is now, my friend, to try and work things out.

If you keep your love a secret, it cannot multiply,
For love, when it's neglected, begins to slowly die.
Go, hug your wife and children - go shed a happy tear!
And love will pay grand dividends each day throughout the year.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 30, 1995, p. 3]

WHEN IT'S BETTER TO FORGET
A news item reveals that researchers now believe that it is healthier to forget. They say that it is good to forget the trivial things of life so as to not overload the brain. That makes me feel better. I thought my forgetfulness was a problem, not I find it's a virtue. N.B. Hardeman once said, "Proper equipment in life demands a good memory, likewise the ability to forget."

1. We should forget past injuries. If one sins against us and repents, we are obliged to forgive him (Luke 17:3). There is no good to be accomplished by continually dwelling on past injuries. If we carry an accumulation of past sins remembered, is that really forgiveness?

2.  We should forget past failures (Phili. 3:13-14). Paul would not dwell on his past. He had to forget it and press on to new heights. He had to forget his opposition to the church (Acts 26:9-11). He had to forget the fact that he once made havoc of the church and was personally involved in the persecution of many Christians (Acts 8:1-3). We cannot afford to live in the past, dragging ourselves down by mistakes that we have made. Our past failures should help us see what we were and what, by God's grace, we can become.

3. We should forget past achievements. This is so that we will not become satisfied with what we once were, or what we now are. When we stop to applaud our past accomplishments, we are at a standstill for the present and likely to die in our steps. It is possible for one to hug his attainments and never go beyond what he has.

In the work of the Lord's church I have heard people boast, "We used to do this, and we used to do that," in response to which I am inclined to say, "That's fine, but what are you doing now, and more importantly, what do you intend to do in the future for the cause of Christ by your involvement and participation?" The Lord's church cannot grow on what we used to do, no matter how great the accomplishments. Others have paved the way for us by their steadfast and tireless service to Christ, but we cannot camp on it today and say our work is done. Former blessings will not suffice for the future. We, like Paul, must press on!
[by Dennis Gulledge, Sparta, Tenn. from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 30, 1995, p. 3]

A CLEAN BASKET
Emmy was 40 years old when she was baptized. She had lived all her life on a farm and had gone through the 8th grade, but Emmy never could memorize.
When she heard the teacher in Bible class tell the people they ought to memorize a certain passage, Emmy decided to try.
After several days of study, she was so discouraged she went to talk to the teacher about it.
"I want to learn the scriptures," she told her white-haired friend, "so I can have an answer ready when my neighbor asks me why I serve the Lord. But it seems I cannot do it. It does me no good to study."
For a moment the teacher was silent, then said, "Bring that basket over to the pump."
"This old dirty potato basket?"
"Yes, now fill it with water."
"Why, you know there's no use pumping water into a basket; it won't hold a drop." Emmy was puzzled by the teacher's words. "Never mind, you just do as I said."
All the while protesting, Emmy pumped water into the basket, and no matter how hard she labored, all the water ran through. After a time the teacher told her she could stop, and then told her to look into the basket.
"I don't see anything," said Emmy, "except it is clean inside."
"Then you get the lesson, Emmy. The scriptures can be like that water. Let them run through your mind, and even though they may not stay there, they will do you good. The Word of God will leave the mind clean just as the water left this basket clean.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 30, 1995, p. 3]

"DAMAGED GOODS" WHEN DID BEING SICK BECOME A SIN?
A friend told me he was having surgery on a chronic ulcer - but warned me not to mention the operation to anyone else. He didn't want his employer to find out, so he was taking two weeks' vacation instead of sick leave. He also planned to use his wife's health benefits to avoid filing an insurance claim through his office.

When I questioned the elaborate deception, my friend replied: "It's important for me to seem on top of things - and my boss wouldn't look at me the same way if he knew I'd just had major surgery. I can't afford to be seen as damaged goods."

Damaged goods. This revealing phrase embodies the widespread American belief that excellent health, physical fitness and youth are "normal" - while any sickness or other physical imperfections (including those associated with aging) are aberrations to be concealed whenever possible.

Like my friend, too many of us fear that we'll be judged and found wanting whenever our bodies fail us, as they inevitably do from time to time. We even blame ourselves - for the frailties of our flesh.

At no other time in American history has so much emphasis been placed on what people can do - from eating properly to exercising to giving up harmful habits like smoking - to improve their own health. Although it's certainly important to try to keep our bodies in the best possible repair, it's a grave error (one fostered by many self-help gurus) to believe that "living right" will guarantee good health.

The opposite of living right is, of course, living wrong - and the health police are always on the lookout for evidence of bad behavior. In this world view, accidents and bad luck just don't happen.

Last fall, I tore the cartilage in my knee when I slipped on a lettuce leaf in a grocery store. (I no longer laugh at movie scenes of people falling on banana peels.) After walking around in pain for several months, I had to have surgery.

When I mentioned the accident to one psychologically oriented acquaintance, she said, "You need to reduce your stress level so you can concentrate more on what's going on around you." Feeling attacked (after all, I had expected sympathy), I explained that I'd been carrying a bag of groceries and hadn't thought to look at the floor.

Another friend whom I told about my operation said I should have been able to fix my knee with exercise alone. But I had been doing exercises for months, I said, and they hadn't worked. The implication of these comments is clear: I was responsible for wrecking my own knee. Bad girl.

Ironically, this judgmental attitude toward people with routine health problems comes at a time when Americans are more aware than ever about the needs of citizens with serious, visible disabilities. We're willing to concede that someone in a wheelchair is entitled to assistance, but we tend to regard the walking wounded with indifference.

Many of us find it hard to believe that others are truly suffering unless they look feeble or old or sick. When my best friend was stricken with an inner-ear infection that destroyed her balance, making it impossible for her to drive or walk outdoors for two months, I picked up her daughter from school on many occasions. I soon grew tired - then outraged - at the comments of several mothers who implied that my friend was malingering to avoid her share of school-related chores and meetings.

"If you're going to get sick," said one woman, sarcastically, "you might as well do it when vacation's over. I just saw Alice in August and she looked gorgeous." I replied that Alice still looked gorgeous, but she had one little problem: She couldn't walk five steps without feeling as if buildings were about to fall on her.

So powerful is the injunction against showing any sign of weakness that some people refuse help even when it's freely offered. Pregnancy, though obviously not a disease, used to entitle a woman to a little extra pampering in the late stages. Yet today my pregnant friends feel obliged to work harder than ever to prove they can carry their share at the office.

One woman, only 10 days away from her due date, actually turned down a colleague's offer to help with a complicated project that required evening work. "I've got to show everyone that I can keep up the pace," she explained.

But no one can "keep up the pace" all the time. Although most of us experience many more periods of health and strength than of illness and weakness, we're still human. And we need to redefine "normality" to include the inevitable periods when our bodies betray us.

Above all, we must stop blaming ourselves and others for physical frailties - and learn to receive as well as to give help when needed. It's time to understand that we are not "damaged goods," we're durable used goods.
[by Susan Jacoby from Woman's Day, Mar. 15, 1994, p. 188]

THAT PEOPLE QUIT THE LORD IS NOT TO BE DENIED
The Lord is QUIT when a Christian no longer serves Him.

The Lord is QUIT when the Christian QUITS His church (Eph. 1:22-23). "Wait a minute! I want to take issue with you on that! I have just QUIT the church, I haven't QUIT the Lord!" Brother, sister, that is impossible, for the church is the body of Christ. QUITTING the church and not the Lord is about as possible as QUITTING breathing and not dying.

QUITTING is a faith problem...in every instance it is a faith problem. No one can QUIT the Lord/His church and, at the same time, maintain faith in Him. When faith is abandoned, it is impossible to please God (Heb. 11:6). Never does the New Testament speak of quitting the Lord in kind words or in an acceptable way.

While QUITTING is a faith problem, it is more complicated than that. Something has led to one's problem with his/her faith. In the New Testament there are four pictures of quitting featured which pretty well characterize what is behind any quitter's faith problem. Consider the four:

1. (Matt. 26:56)...these people quit the Lord when they felt their discipleship asked too much of them. It squelched their faith.
2. (John 6:22-66)...these quitter's faith (John 6:64) was destroyed by their own self-centeredness. Self-centeredness/selfishness and faith are incompatible.
3. (II Tim. 4:10)...this quitter's faith was destroyed by his love for the world. Worldliness and faith are incompatible.
4. (II Pet. 2:10-16)...these who quit and "have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray" (II Pet. 2:15) found their faith destroyed by their corrupt character.
From the situations just considered, we understand that quitters in New Testament days did so because they felt commitment to the Lord asked too much of them, and/or were self-centered, and/or were worldly, and/or were of poor character.

21st century quitters quit for the same reasons. Quitting cannot be anymore justified today than it was in the first century. It is impossible to divorce quitting from its devastating consequences! No one makes anyone else quit the Lord/the church. It is a matter of personal choice and for which each will be accountable to the Lord.

While elders and every Christian ought to be sincerely concerned about quitters, concerned enough to encourage them to repent and return to the Lord, quitters, in the Judgment Day, will not be able to find satisfaction in pointing fingers and saying, "he/she/they caused me to quit.", or "but Lord, no one encouraged me to repent."
Quitting is a serious matter!
[by Charlie T. Garner, church of Christ, Plymouth, Fla. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 16, 1995, p. 3]

LINCOLN'S REMEDY FOR TODAY'S PROBLEMS
Abraham Lincoln, one of our greatest Presidents, is known for his masterful use of the English language. He clearly and concisely said not only what he meant to say, but what needed to be said. He also had keen insight and was able to clearly discern the core problem facing our nation and explain what was needed as the remedy.

On April 30, 1863, Lincoln addressed the nation on something that held great weight in his heart. His words conveyed a sense of urgency and cut through any pretense to arrive at the source of what was ailing America. His words are worth hearing again for they prompt us to consider the many blessings we have and describe who rightfully deserves the credit for them. We may also find that the solution he called for to the problem of his day is equally valid today.

"We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven. We have been preserved, these many years, in peace and prosperity. We have grown in numbers, wealth and power, as no other nation has ever grown. But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us; and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become so self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us! It behooves us, then, to humble ourselves before the offended power, to confess our national sins, and to pray for clemency and forgiveness."

Are there any problems we face as a nation today where "superior wisdom and virtue of our own" have failed to bring a cure? We don't need to look very far: drugs, gangs, violent crime, divorce, to name a few. Perhaps rather than relying on our own "superior wisdom" we should renew Lincoln's prescription to "pray to the God that made us" and "seek His redeeming and preserving grace."
[by Dan Graham, Clovis N.M. from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 16, 1995, p. 4]

TWENTY RULES FOR MARRIED HAPPINESS.
1.  The very nearest approach to domestic happiness on earth is the cultivation on both sides of absolute unselfishness.
2. Never both be angry at the same time.
3. Never talk at one another, either alone or in company.
4. Never speak loud to one another, unless the house is on fire.
5. Let each one strive to yield most often to the wishes of the other.
6. Let self-denial be the daily aim and practice of each.
7. Never find fault unless it is perfectly certain that a fault exists and always speak lovingly.
8. Never taunt with a past mistake.
9. Neglect the whole world, rather than one another.
10. Never allow a request to be repeated.
11. Never make a remark at the expense of another. It is meanness.
12. Never part for a day without loving words to think of during absence.
13. Never meet without loving welcome.
14. Never let the sun go down upon any anger or grievance.
15. Never let any fault you have committed go by until you have frankly confessed it and asked for forgiveness.
16. Never forget the happy hours of early love.
17. Never sigh over what might have been, but make the best of what is.
18. Never forget that marriage is ordained of God, and that His blessing alone can make it what it should be.
19. Never be contented until you know you are both walking the narrow way.
20. Never let your hopes stop short of the eternal home.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 25, 1995, p. 3]

WHAT WILL OUR CHILDREN REMEMBER ABOUT HOME?
Will they remember...
...that their father and mother loved each other and were kind to each other?
...that home was a happy place - respected and revered by the law of love?
...that each child was treated fairly, deeply loved, and was required to obey both parents?
...that home was a place where God was loved, respected and obeyed?
...that Sunday was a happy day, looked forward to as a day when everyone went to Bible study and worship without question?
...that absolute truth abode there; no earnest questioner, however young, was put off with evasion?
...that the Bible was the law of God that settled everything - and that it was read and studied every day?
...that although father and mother worked long and hard every day, they still took time to read the Bible and pray?
...that home was a place where friends and friendships were dear, but where truth and right were dearer?
These are things that make home dear. For some it may be too late. For some it may be that the children's remembrances of home may yet be changed - for the better.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 26, 1994 and June 25, 1995, p. 3]

THE LITTLE FOXES
(S.S. 2:15).
Foxes were very numerous in Samson's day (Judg. 15:4). Jesus referred to Herod as a fox, because he was sly and cunning (Luke 13:32). The prophet Ezekiel wrote...(Eze. 13:4). Hence, the words fox and foxes are used in both a literal and figurative sense.

In our study both the groom and the bride are in view. The words of our text seem to be the words of the bride. She, likely, does not want the little annoyances and little cares to interfere with and damage their love. Their love was in full bloom, but little foxes - little sins - should not be allowed to blight, dim, and destroy it.

Throughout man's long and checkered history, man has become an expert in ignoring his major sins, while treating his minor sins as of no real consequence.

Most of us consider kidnapping, murder, bank robbery, treason, stealing, and the like major sins (Exo. 20:1-17; Gal. 5:19-21). But minor sins, such as anger, adultery or fornication, fussing and quarreling, hypocrisy, faultfinding, and the like should be excused as of no importance. Have we correctly stated the problem?? We think we have! We shall now discuss some of "the little foxes" that "spoil the vines" and the "tender grapes."

Pouting and sulking may be "little foxes," but they do great harm. One young woman got into a fight with her husband, and for a solid year refused to speak to him. Her husband died at the end of that unhappy year. While his body was in the funeral parlor, she stood by his casket for 24 hours trying to apologize for her treatment of him, but it was too late. Husbands/wives, brothers and sisters in Christ, pouting and sulking cannot solve any problems; rather, they create problems.

One "little fox" is faultfinding. We suggest that Matt. 7:1-5, be read and digested. Why do we continually see tiny specks in others but cannot recognize our own faults? The late G.C. Brewer, a wonderful pioneer preacher, in the early days of the church of Christ in Walker County, Alabama, said, "The greatest fault of all is the fault of faultfinding." A chronic faultfinder makes no friends.

Another "little fox" is the practice of constantly being in a dark, quarreling, disgruntled mood. Such always get up on the wrong side of the bed. Some seem to have been "born in the objective case and in the kickative mood." One can ever look on the dark side of life. Optimism is always in order (Matt. 6:33-34). Those who throw a wet blanket on everything are doomed to accomplish nothing.

Character assassination, suspicion, and mistrust are "little foxes" which can land one in hell. The Pharisees and the Sadducees used this method to crucify Jesus Christ (Matt. 9:34; Mark 3:3; John 11:47-57; Matt. 22:23-33). This preacher has known many elders, preachers, teachers, and other CHristians whose character and good name were slandered by Satan's agents (II Cor. 11:13-28).

In our modern day there are countless thousands who have no respect for God's marriage laws (Gen. 2:24-25; Matt. 5:27-28; Matt. 5:31-32; Matt. 19:3-9; Mark 10:11-12). These references show how sacred marriage is. Thousands think sex is a toy - something not to be taken seriously. These advocates of the sex game talk much about "safe sex," but there is no such thing, except where the man and the woman bring their virginity to the marriage altar. If either previously engaged in the sex act, either may already be a carrier of AIDS. What this crowd means when they say "safe sex," is "safe sin." In their view, one can engage in the act if one does not get caught. But the sexual act begins in the eyes, the mind, and in the heart. Here is the reason Jesus taught that if a man/woman looks on a man/woman to lust after him/her, one is already an adulterer (Matt. 5:27-28). (Heb. 13:4). Honor God's rules for marriage and escape the plague of AIDS, gonorrhea, and the like. Learn and use abstinence, continence, sobriety!

It is easy for us to allow "little foxes" to lead us away from the ancient gospel of Christ. One tiny hole punched into the dike soon grows and grows until the whole area is flooded. Many liberals are now in the brotherhood. Their aim is to modernize the church and to bring it into the twenty-first century. Many compromises are at work. These can have fellowship with the Roman Catholics, the Baptists, and other denominations. What has happened to the principles taught in Eph. 5:11; II Cor. 6:14-18; II John 9-11. The Bible says...(Jude 3). Hence, no additions or subtractions or substitutions can be permitted (Rev. 22:18-19). If we do not stand fast, we shall soon see pianos in the worship and our preachers exchanging pulpits with denominational preachers. Brethren take warning!!

Brethren's dividing over personal preferences represents a "little fox" that does great harm to the Lord's church. Let us all endeavor to "keep the unity" (Eph. 4:3-6). Never go to the assembly with your fighting clothes on. Animosity, hostility, and disagreeableness must somehow be laid aside. (Amos 3:3). May God, through the Lord Jesus Christ, save us from "the little foxes".
[by W. A. Holley, Parrish, Ala. from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 2, 1995, p. 3]

LITTLE CHILDREN
Little ears are listening;
Little minds run wild;
Trying to be like mom or dad,
Comes natural for a child.

They want to do the things you do;
And say the things you say;
They're watching and they're listening,
Even while they play!

So mom and dad, be very sure,
You're always watching too;
To say and do the things that you
Would have your children do.
[by Laina Owens from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 2, 1995, p. 4]

OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF BABES...AND DINOSAURS!
The church today is confronted by many issues: the role of women, instrumental music, the necessity of baptism, etc. One issue which will be debated with much greater frequency is: clapping during singing of religious songs. This issues can be easily resolved using the simplest of logic - common sense, and respect for the authority of the Bible.

Our singing is being increasingly polluted by the clapping of hands to the beat of particular songs, especially songs used at youth rallies, church camps, and in youth devotionals. Our young people are being taught that such does not constitute a violation of the Bible, since "mechanical instruments of music" are not being used. Many of our brethren have already embraced groups which imitate instruments, and the rhythmic clapping which we now see in worship is a direct result of that done during their concerts. Clapping during the singing of religious songs does constitute a violation of scripture: examine closely the following examples from which our title was taken.

On Sunday, June 5, 1994, my daughter Shelby was playing at home and called out to me, "Daddy, come listen while I play music on my belly!" She then proceeded to play on her stomach as one would play a bongo drum. Where did she learn that this constituted playing music? You guessed it! From the lovable purple dinosaur Barney (by the way, I really do like Barney!)

During the week of April 11-15, 1994, two incidents occurred on TV which taught Shelby that such sounds constitute music. On Barney and Friends, after Barney suggested that they sing the song again, but this time "to music". Upon seeing the children's puzzled faces, Barney told them that they carried instruments with them everywhere they went...their hands! In the same week on Cappelli and Company (A show for kids on Nichelodeon), a Mr Cappelli had a professional percussionist on his program who also explained that one's hands may be used as musical instruments.

Acts 17:25 clearly states that God is not worshipped with men's hands. Our singing is restricted to accompaniment by only one instrument: our hearts (Eph. 5:19). Why do our "mature", "open-minded," "progressive" brethren argue a point which my 3-year-old daughter can understand, a point which was taught to her by secular TV programs with no interest in the religious ramifications of this issue? The "progressive brethren" among us have taken a lesson from the secular media: "Get them while they're young." Sound familiar? That is because this lesson is biblical in principle: "Train up a child..." (Prov. 22:6). We need to apply the same principle in training our young people so that they may recognize error when they encounter it. Think about it!
[by Todd Clippard, Eastwood Church of Christ from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 9, 1995, p. 3]

GOD'S GUIDELINES FOR A RICH FULL LIFE
1. Learn to live in the present - live today.
2. Learn to be joyful, to smile much and to laugh often.
3. Learn to appreciate the friendship of others.
4. Learn to act sincerely and spontaneously rather than on the basis of how others expect you to act.
5. Spend little time and energy in judging and interpreting the actions of others.
6. Express appreciation and give praise to others often.
7. Feel for others. Be sensitive.
8. You must be willing to die for what you live for.
9. Simplify your life.
10. Learn from what most people consider to be failures.
11. Resolve to be tender and caring with the young and the aged.
12. Do not equate money with success.
13. Do not seek needless confrontation - be at peace.
14. Accept your limitations.
15. Be in control of your finances.
16. Feed your mind that which will build and strengthen you.
17. Spend some time often with people of faith and strength.
18. Work to keep your health.
19. Count your blessings.
20. Resolve to listen more and talk less.
21. Have faith in the eternal God and his promises in Jesus Christ.
[by Harvey M. Starling from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 9, 1995, p. 3]

EUREKA
Eureka (interjection, repurted exclamation). ("I have found it") uttered by Archimedes when he discovered the means of determining (by specific gravity) the proportion of base metal in King Heiro's golden crown. 2. an exulting exclamation at any discovery. (Greek heureka, 1st singular perfect active indicative of heuriskein - find). The World Book Encyclopedia, p. 679.

John 1 has been called the chapter of eurekas. Some form of the word is found a number of times in the chapter. John the Baptist introduces two of his disciples, Andrew and perhaps John, to Jesus. Having found Jesus, Andrew "first finds his own brother Simon" and said until him, (hurakaman), (John 1:41). The word "first" indicates that he found his brother Peter before John found his brother James. Finding Jesus motivated the disciples to go out and find the person that they could influence for Christ.

Jesus finds Philip and says to him, "Follow me" (John 1:43). Following Jesus motivated Philip to find Nathaniel and say "eureka" (heurakamen), (John 1:45). Many professed followers of Jesus seem to lack the excitement portrayed in the eurekas. The early followers of Christ did not wait until they understood all the questions that might be asked before bringing others to Him. When they were found, they went out and found others. When Philip was questioned by Nathaniel, "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?" Philip said, "Come and see." Jesus came to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10). A true follower of Jesus will seek others to follow Him. Like Philip, he may not have all the answers, but he can always say, "Come and see."

Finding Jesus made a lasting impression upon Andrew. Every mention of his name outside the listing of the twelve apostles is associated with bringing someone to Jesus. Andrew's appreciation for finding Jesus was demonstrated by his finding others for Jesus. He realized he was found to find. The "eureka" of Andrew in finding Jesus was not a one-time shout of exclamation but a continuing anthem. The church needs more members like Andrew.

The first and easiest step in evangelism is "come and see." The invitation to "come and see" was practiced by most Christians a number of years ago. This writer can remember an occasion many years ago in Evansville, Indiana, when in one week he personally invited 200 people to attend the services of the church of Christ. One came! That is one more than would have come if the invitations were not extended. Our clarion call must ever be, "Come and see."

One's failure to invite people to attend the assemblies of the church may disclose one's unverbalized feelings about his Christian faith and the assemblies. Is Christian service a joy to us, or is it a a burdensome duty? We encourage people to go where we enjoy going, to eat in restaurants where we enjoy eating, and to read materials that we enjoy reading. We do not encourage people to do what we look upon as a burdensome duty. Our spiritual outreach to others regarding Christianity and church services is a reflection of our own attitudes toward these matters. Many of us need to pray with the psalmist David...Psa. 51:12-13).
[by Wallace Maxwell from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 17, 1995, p. 3-4]

You are God's hands to take his Word to lost mankind. The world needs God. Men and women all around you are dying for lack of His saving message. Let your hands work for Christ.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 17, 1995, p. 4]

ALL TOO MANY WASTED YEARS
I looked upon a farm one day
That once I used to own;
The barn had fallen to the ground,
The fields were overgrown.

The house in which my children grew,
Where we had lived for years,
I turned to see it broken down,
And brushed aside the tears.

I looked upon my soul one day,
To find it, too, had grown
With thorns and thistles everywhere,
The seeds neglect had sown.

The years had passed while I had cared
For things of lesser worth;
The things of heaven I let go
While minding things of earth.

To Christ I turned with bitter tears,
And cried, "O Lord, forgive!
I haven't much time left for Thee,
Not many years to live."

The wasted years forever gone,
The days I can't recall;
If I could live those days again,
I'd make Him Lord of all.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 3, 1995, p. 4]

THE IMPORTANCE OF TEACHING
The public assemblies of the Lord's church are but a small part of the overall activity and work in the community. Much of that work involves teaching, which takes place in Bible classes, in the home, from house to house, on the job, etc. The opportunities for every Christian are unlimited - and are critically important if souls are to be saved and if the church is to grow in knowledge, in genuine spirituality, and in number.

Martin Luther termed teaching as "one of the highest virtues on earth." How did the Lord urge Peter to demonstrate his love? "Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these?...Feed my lambs" (John 21:15-17). Aristotle stated, "Those who educate children well are more to be honored than they who produce them; for these only gave them life, those the art of living well." We must qualify ourselves for this needed and significant work, and use our talents and reach our potential for our dear Lord.
The Urgency
The urgency is seen in II Tim. 2:1-2. Most regrettable to Paul was that the Hebrews did not prepare to teach (Heb. 5:12-14).

Our Lord Himself, the Master Teacher, showed personally the urgency of teaching, teaching as "one that had authority" (Mark 1:21-22), teaching wherever He went (Mark 10:1; Matt. 5:2; Matt. 7:28; Luke 5:3; John 13:13).

He showed the urgency by training His disciples to teach. They were sent forth to preach, (Matt. 10:5-7; Mark 6:7, 12; Luke 9:2; Luke 10:1); they went to the lost sheep of the house of Israel and then reported back to the Lord of "what they had taught" (Mark 6:30).

The Lord trained the apostles to teach and revealed what to teach - the truth (John 8:31-32; John 17:17-23). Guided into all truth (John 16:13; John 14:26), they did not even have to premeditate (Matt. 10:19-20). Their responsibility - and ours - was to teach all nations (Matt. 28:19-20). The apostles' doctrine was declared throughout the world (Acts 2:42; Col. 1:23) and was permanently recorded for succeeding generations (II Pet. 1:3; Jude 3; James 1:25).

The urgency of teaching the Word inviting every precious soul to the spiritual feast available only in God's house, the church/kingdom (I Tim. 3:14-15; Matt. 16:18-19), is seen in the parable of the great supper. (Luke 14:15-24). This shows the value of even one soul (Matt. 16:26; John 4:35).

Additional urgency is seen from the fact that some 80% of conversions in local congregations come through our Bible classes. If 80% of one's income were to come from one certain source, that area of income would receive much emphasis, would it not? God bless our teachers who put forth great interest and devoted efforts in teaching our youths! Let us work hard to save the approximately 50% of our children who are lost from our classes and the church by the time they are grown! And, let us work hard to lead the lost to Jesus!
[by Curtis A. Cates, Yokefellow, Memphis, Tenn. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 3, 1995, p. 3]

MY HEART GETS THERE FIRST
An elderly Christian lady, dreadfully crippled with rheumatism, used to hobble to the services of the church on two sticks. It was a great ordeal and required of her considerable toil and pain. A friend of hers observed her regularly and asked, "How do you manage to be at every service?" Her answer was classic, "My heart gets there first, and my old legs just follow after."
There is the key to faithfulness, not only in attendance at the worship assemblies, but in living a life worthy of the name "Christian".
Jesus had taught men to seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33). The greatest commandment is...(Matt. 22:37). All acceptable service to God and His Son begins in the heart - a heart filled with love. A heart filled with the love of God and His Son will show itself in external actions. Jesus said...(John 14:15). We prove ourselves to be friends of Jesus by the way we let that heart filled with love cause us to act. (John 15:14).
If Jesus truly is Lord in our hearts, our lives will be lived so that others will see Christ living in us and the hope we have in our heart (I Pet. 3:15-16).
We have all heard the expression, "their heart is not in it." I'm afraid that the Lord, who knows the hearts of all men, must be saying that about many people who profess to follow Christ. Is your heart in your service to Christ? If so, you'll be like the lady above - your heart gets there first and your legs naturally follow.
[by Lindel Doty, South Florida Ave., Lakeland, Fla. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 3, 1995, p. 3]

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS MAY SAVE YOUR MARRIAGE
Our Wednesday night classes and prayer service could save your marriage!

Why? Watch this because there is proof for it. The University of Iowa conducted a study on marital conflict and discovered that Wednesday is "spat day" for most couples. Why? Well, it is farthest from the relaxing time of weekends in both directions. The problems of work, at home with children, and boredom of midweek, make many people a little more irritable. Thursdays were found to be the most pleasant days, perhaps because Wednesday is past!

What if your Wednesday brought something to eagerly anticipate! Wouldn't Wednesdays be exciting? Sure, it might take a little more effort to get home from work, get the kids and get off to church. But it's relaxing. Try it. You'll find that you're not really tired after you get there; you just thought you were. Or, you were mentally and emotionally tired from the day's hassle.

Can you imagine a husband scratching the burnt carbon off his morning toast next week and then saying, "I don't really mind, because this is another exciting Wednesday! We get to go to Bible classes tonight!" Or Mom, picking up the smelly gym socks and stopping to say, "I can stand it. After all this is a night to go and pray together!"
[by Martel Pace from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb., 1995, p. 3]

A SUCCESSFUL SHOCK TREATMENT
(A new way to handle an old problem)
A young military officer who was travelling by train from Newark to New York City, constantly introduced profane language into his conversation, as he conversed with another passenger beside him. His profanity greatly annoyed a young lady who sat not far away.

At last unable to tolerate his language further, the offended passenger leaned over and inquired politely, "Sir, can you converse in a foreign language?" "Yes," was his reply in a slightly surprised manner. "Then," she continued, "if you wish to swear anymore, you would greatly oblige me - and, no doubt, the rest of the passengers - if you would swear in another tongue."

Astonished at her suggestion, and as well, her audacity, the young officer was speechless momentarily. However, he finally resumed his conversation, he did not swear again - neither in a "foreign language" nor in English.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb., 1995, p. 3]

PREACH THE GOSPEL
young minister in a college town was embarrassed by the thought of criticism from his cultured congregation. He sought counsel from his father, a wise old minister, saying, "Dad, I am handicapped in my ministry in the pulpit I am now serving. If I cite anything from geology, there is Prof. A., teacher of this science, right before me. If I use an illustration from Roman mythology, there is Prof. B. ready to trip me up for any little inaccuracy. If I mention something in English literature that pleases me, I am cowered by the presence of the learned man that teaches that branch. What shall I do?" The sagacious old man replied, "Do not be discouraged; preach the gospel. They probably know very little of that." How true.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb., 1995, p. 3]

Your spouse, family member, or friend is seeking to better understand who God has made him/her to be. Your perspective and observations can be helpful in that process.
Directions: Read each of the descriptions below. Using these definitions, mark one of the following letters in each of the spaces provided.
D=Definitely true, yes, certain gift.
P=Possible true, maybe, potential gift.
O=Does not have gift.
?=I don't know, have not observed.

__ Administration: The ability of working with and through followers toward achieving biblical goals and organizational objectives.
__ Apostleship/Missionary: A New Testament office, represented today by the Spirit-given ability to minister cross-culturally with the goal of planting churches.
__ Discernment: The ability to distinguish between truth and error, good and evil, the Spirit of God and satan.
__ Evangelism: The ability to act as a productive instrument of God in soul-winning.
__ Exhortation: The ability to come alongside another in need of encouragement, challenge or earnest advice.
__ Faith: An unusual ability to trust in the presence and power of God and act on this trust.
__ Giving: The ability to earn money, manage it well and wisely give for the Lord's work.
__ Helps: The ability to provide timely assistance doing everyday tasks so that others are released to use their gifts more effectively.
__ Hospitality: The ability to provide an open home to those in need of food, lodging and fellowship or refuge to a bruised individual.
__ Knowledge: The ability to discover, accumulate, analyze and clarify information and ideas that are pertinent to the growth and well-being of the body.
__ Leadership: The ability to set goals and to motivate others towards their accomplishment in the Body of Christ.
__ Mercy: The ability to give aid to the suffering or undeserving, and to spare them from punishment or penalties justly deserved.
__ Prophecy: The ability to cause the authoritative word of God's truth to shine. It includes congregational preaching, sharing, writing or otherwise explaining and applying God's word for correction and edification.
__ Serving: The ability to identify the unmet needs and to make use of available resources to meet those needs and help accomplish the desired results.
__ Shepherding: The ability to effectively guide, nurture, and protect a flock of followers in Christ.
__ Teaching: The ability to give a detailed understanding of biblical truth to those willing to learn.
__ Wisdom: The ability to use knowledge effectively coupled with a deep reverence and awe for God.

A. Do you have any other observations or insights that would help each person to understand his/her strengths or abilities?
B. List in order the top two gifts you marked with a "P". Explain why.
C. Look back at those gifts you marked "D". List them from most apparent to least apparent and explain why you think this person has these gifts.

Now you are ready to answer the following questions to help you understand your scores!

1. Gifts with three highest scores.
2. Of the gifts with lower scores, which ones had little chance for expression through my own actions?
3. Of the gifts in which I scored relatively high, which ones have been affirmed by unsolicited recognition from other Christians?
4. If I could wish for three spiritual gifts, these are the ones I would pick.
5. What ministries am I now performing (formally or informally) in the Body?
6. Of the many kinds of service and ministry roles involved in the work of the church, which ones seem most appropriate to express my gifts?

Support
1. People seem to be willing to follow my leadership without much resistance.
2. I like to proclaim God's word to fellow Christians.
3. It is a joy to proclaim God's plan of salvation to unchurched people.
4. It is enjoyable to have the responsibility of leading others in their spiritual life.
5. I'm excited in helping people discover important truths in the scriptures.
6. I feel the responsibility to lead when I am with a group.
7. I like to proclaim the word of God to comfort others.
8. It seems easy to determine when the Spirit has prepared a person to accept Jesus as Lord.
9. It is exciting to provide spiritual leadership for a congregation.
10. Teaching the Bible class is one of the most enjoyable functions of my Christian walk.
11. I have little fear in leading people where God wants them to go.
12. I enjoy relating and sharing God's word to the issues of the day.
13. I feel a burden to share the Gospel with people.
14. I like to assist people with their spiritual problems.
15. It seems that people learn when I teach them.
16. I appreciate the opportunity to proclaim God's message to others.
17. It is important to speak God's word of warning and judgment in the world today.
18. It is a joy to share what Jesus means to me with an unchurched neighbor.
19. People like to bring their troubles and concerns to me because they feel I care.
20. One of the joys of my walk with God is teaching people how to be more effective Christians.
21. I enjoy training workers in the congregation.
22. In a Bible class it seems essential to share God's word even if it bothers others.
23. I feel a deep concern for the unreached people in my community.
24. I enjoy a close relationship with people in a one to one situation.
25. I find it easy to organize materials for teaching a Bible class.

Speaking
1. It is enjoyable to motivate people to a higher spiritual commitment.
2. People with spiritual problems like to come to me to receive my advice.
3. I received excellent grades while in school.
4. It is a joy to give encouragement to people who are discouraged.
5. I enjoy providing solutions to difficult problems in life.
6. It seems easy to learn difficult truths.
7. I like to encourage inactive church members to become involved Christians again.
8. It seems that people generally follow my advice.
9. I am able to understand difficult portions of God's word.
10. People who are feeling perplexed come to me for encouragement and comfort.
11. I feel that I have a special insight in selecting the best alternative in a difficult situation.
12. I have a clear understanding of biblical doctrines.
13. I would rather call on a delinquent family in the church than an unchurched family.
14. I have a strong sense of confidence in my solution to problems.
15. It is an exciting challenge to read and study a difficult book of the Bible.

Serving
1. I find great joy in doing odd jobs around the church building.
2. I look for opportunities to assist people in their work.
3. There is great joy in leading people to accomplish group goals.
4. I like to organize people for more effective ministry.
5. There is great satisfaction in giving money for the Lord's work.
6. I feel great compassion for the problems of others.
7. It seems easy to perceive whether a person is honest or dishonest.
8. I am ready to try the impossible because I have a great trust in God.
9. There is great joy in having people in my home.
10. I enjoy doing routine tasks for the glory of God.
11. I enjoy helping with the urgent tasks around the church.
12. People seem to enjoy following me in doing an important task.
13. There is joy in making important decisions.
14. I find real joy in giving a generous portion of my money to the Lord.
15. Visiting people in retirement homes gives me great satisfaction.|
16. I seem to know very quickly whether something is right or wrong.
17. When things seem impossible, I'm ready to move forward anyway.
18. I do not feel uncomfortable when people drop in to visit unexpectedly.
19. I receive great satisfaction in doing small or unheralded tasks in the church.
20. I enjoy doing tasks which others might consider menial or unimportant.
21. It is more effective to delegate a task to someone else rather than do it myself.
22. I enjoy the responsibility for the achievement of group goals.
23. I appreciate the opportunity to financially support a critical situation.
24. I sense joy in comforting people in difficult situations.
25. The difference between truth and error is easily perceived.
26. I am often ready to believe God will lead us through when others feel it is impossible.
27. People seem to feel very comfortable in my home.
28. I find more satisfaction in doing a job than finding someone else to do it.
29. I appreciate a ministry of helping other people to bear their burdens.
30. It is a thrill to inspire others to greater involvement in church work.
31. The development of effective plans for a church ministry gives me great satisfaction.
32. It is a joy to see how much money I can give to the Lord.
33. I enjoy ministering to a person who is sick in the hospital.
34. I can judge well between the truthfulness and error of a given theological statement.
35. People seem to view me as one who believes everything is possible.
36. When missionaries come to our church I like to have them come to my home.
37. I like to do things without attracting much attention.
38. If a family is facing a serious crisis, I enjoy the opportunity to help them.
39. There is great satisfaction in having others follow me in performing a task.
40. I would rather make decisions for the group than persuade them to reach the same decision.
41. I can give sacrificially because I know that God will meet my needs.
42. It is a special satisfaction to visit people who are confined to their homes.
43. I often seek the motives of a person and look beneath the words.
44. When people are discouraged I enjoy giving them a positive vision.
45. People seem to enjoy coming to my home.

This discovery tool was developed using a combination of material from:
1. Houts Inventory of Spiritual Gifts, Fuller Theological Seminary, 1985.
2. What's My Gift? Concordia Publishing, 1979.
3. Networking, Charles E. Fuller Institute, 1989.
4. Your CHurch Can Grow, A book written by C. Peter Wagner.

What is the difference between a natural talent and a spiritual gift?
The case of a young woman can help us understand this question. She aptly puts to use a God-given strength - the ability to work with "losers," teens and others who are suffering and struggling and who frequently fail to fall short of society's standards of acceptable behavior. Why would such an ability, even though bestowed at birth, not be a spiritual gift?

Such an ability becomes a spiritual gift and special ability when it meets biblical criteria through a current God-given experience. Prior to this experience the ability either lies dormant because of unawareness, or finds expression through wrong motives and self-sufficiency. One passage of the New Testament which clearly reveals spiritual giftedness tied to proper motives and a divine dynamic is I Pet. 4:10-11.

The words in this scripture text indicate the crucial that distinguish spiritual gifts:
1. A spiritual gift is expressed with a servant motive, to minister to a local congregation or church.
2. A spiritual gift is expressed with a steward motive, recognizing and managing this special ability not as one's own, but as God's.
3. A spiritual gift is expressed as strengthened "by the strength which God supplies." A rugged individualist would neither lean upon God's power, nor believe that...(Phili. 2:13).
4. A spiritual gift is expressed to glorify God, giving Him the awe and credit due to Him.

Returning to the example of the young woman above, the biblical criteria appear to go unmet. She shows no evidence of biblical motives in exercising her ability, neither does she seem to rely on the Lord for its use. As it is she has a talent for counseling and is a merciful person, but does not possess the spiritual gift of mercy.

I was glad when they said to me Let us go into the house of the Lord. What is the house of the Lord? The kingdom, the body, the church, the bride of Christ. Christ is head of the church, savior of the body. (Psa. 122:1; I Tim. 3:15; Eph. 5:23).

GREETINGS
The Apostle Peter as he wrote to the saints who scattered abroad...(I Pet. 3:15). Our eternal salvation depends on why we have hope. If we are unable to scripturally answer for our hope, how can we be sure we have complied with that which give us hope? Peter said though we have not seen Him, yet believing we rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory, receiving the end of our faith which is the salvation of our souls. (I Pet. 1:18-19).

The Lord told the Sadducees they did error not knowing the scripture. Israel claimed Abraham as their father and Moses as their law giver, but Christ said if they had believed Moses they would have believed Him, because Moses wrote of Christ. One of the more positive statement was that in the last days, God would raise up a Prophet like him and Him would they hear.

Israel, like many people today called Christ Lord but failed to do as He instructs, and the Lord asked why? Faith is essential, but faith without works (obedience) is like no faith at all. Abraham was faithful and it was counted to him as righteousness. So you see then how that by works a man is justified and not by faith alone.
[by Alvie from the Church of Christ at Salem [bulletin], McMinnville, Sept., 1998, p. 3]

THE ART OF FRIENDLINESS
Friendliness is God's gift to a lonely world. A blind man was asked what he thought the sun was like. He said, "Like friendship." A friend is a "second half." Aristotle said, "A true friend is one soul in two bodies." Solomon said...(Prov. 18:24). Emerson said, "The only way to have a friend is to be one." Jesus gives us a commentary on friendship in John 15:13-15. Then he says that no man can be his friend without keeping his commandments. Jesus took his friends into confidence by revealing the will of the Father to them. By giving them friendship, he awakened and developed in them the capacity for friendship. Think of what such a spirit of caring meant to the early church. The atmosphere of the church is that of a great family. Their meetings are family gathering. "They are of one heart and soul."

The church must be friendly! The church grows by its relationships. The church is ecclesia "the called out"; again it is koinonia "sharing, fellowship". It is an ask - to rescue man. Paul called it "a colony of heaven" (Phili. 3:20). The Bible likens a redeemed man to the "shadow of a great rock in a weary land." Don't forget to practice Christian friendliness!
[by Newton P.Gribble from Church of Christ at Earleyville [bulletin], Sept. 6, 1998, p. 1]

SOME THINGS WE MUCH NOT COMPROMISE
The name of Christ (Acts 4:12).
The Gospel of Christ (Rom. 1:16).
The church of Christ (Eph. 3:21).
The plan of salvation (Acts 8:12).
The perfect example of Christ (I Pet. 2:21).
The sacred scriptures (II Pet. 1:21).
The authority of Christ (Matt. 28:18).
Purity of life (Titus 2:12).
The purpose of existence (Phili. 2:21).
The hope of heaven (Titus 1:2).
[from Eastside Edifier, Muskogee, OK from Christian Chapel Messenger via Church of Christ at Earleyville [bulletin], Sept. 6, 1998, p. 3]

GOD'S MARVELOUS WONDERS
OVERCOMING STRONGHOLD
Introduction

A.	God gives Jericho to Israel as a token of His ability to overcome physical strongholds.
B.	The same sign is evidence to us that God can overcome spiritual strongholds.
I.	Conquering Jericho is part of a lengthy demonstration by God. (Josh. 2-6).
	A.	Spies report the Canaanites are actually afraid of Israel. (Josh. 2:11).
		1.	This comes from Rahab.
		2.	Surely, Israel had questions about their ability.
	B.	Israel crosses Jordan miraculously. (Josh. 3:15f).
	C.	God has Israel put their trust quietly in Him.
		1.	March as directed for six days (Josh. 6:3ff).
		2.	They must not fight or respond to anything done by the Jericho-ites. (Josh. 6:10f).
		3.	Israel is to pin their hope for a moment of victory on a "shout." (Josh. 6:16).
	D.	Israel is to dedicate the city of God. (Josh. 6:17f).
		1.	This will note the victory is from Him.
		2.	This will declare their confidence that God will provide for them in other victories.
II.	What do the following passages suggest are strongholds we face today?
	A.	II Cor. 10:4-6.
	B.	Rom. 1:18-32.
III.	What do the following passages suggest are some of the weapons we face today?
	A.	Acts 5:28.
	B.	Acts 17:32f.
	C.	I Pet. 3:13-17.
IV.	We can expect walls to fall, when:
	A.	We learn the Word for ourselves (Eph. 4:11-16).
	B.	We obey the Word (Heb. 11:30).
	C.	We develop approved evangelists (II Tim. 2:2).
	D.	We confront the world in God's strength (Eph. 6:10f).

Conclusion
A. Christ has come to conquer the strongholds of men's hearts.
B. We may join Him, if we obey His instructions.

STANDING ALONE WITH GOD
Introduction

A.	Heb. 11 might be titled "They Stood Alone"
B.	Elijah is a remarkable instance of standing alone.
I.	Describe some times you have felt "alone"?
II.	Can you describe some times when you have felt "scared"?
III.	If we were in Elijah's shoes we might have felt alone and scared because of our faith. (I Kings 18).
	A.	What is his background? (I Kings 17:1ff).
	B.	What reasons might we have for feeling alone and scared? (I Kings 17-18).
		1.	From I Kings 17:1.
		2.	From I Kings 18:10.
		3.	From I Kings 18:17.
		4.	From I Kings 18:21.
IV.	What does Elijah do by faith instead of acting alone and scared? (I Kings 18).
	A.	First, in I Kings 18:20-21.
	B.	Second, in I Kings 18:22-24.
	C.	Third, in I Kings 18:25-29.
	D.	Fourth, in I Kings 18:30-35.
	E.	Fifth, in I Kings 18:36-38.
	F.	Sixth, in I Kings 18:40.
V.	What do the following imply the Lord wants us to do when His preachers face threatening circumstances?
	A.	I Kings 18:21b.
	B.	John 6, cp. vs. 60 with 67.
	C.	Heb. 13:7-9.
	D.	Titus 2:15.
	E.	II Tim. 4:2f.
	F.	II Tim. 1:16-17.

Conclusion
A. The primary application of this passage is to under stand how God's preacher needs our support when "brethren" are hostile to God's Word.
B. In a secondary sense, Elijah also is an example of living by faith in difficult days.
[by James E. Gammon, Sr. McMinnville, Tenn., 1996]

My precious friend:
I am sending you this letter by way of one of My disciples. I just wanted to let you know how much I love and care about you and how I greatly desire to become a meaningful part of your life.

This morning when you awoke, I was already there with you in the light of my beautiful sunshine that filled your room. I was hoping you would say good morning to me. You didn't. So I thought maybe it was just a little too early in the day for you to notice me.

Again, I tried to get your attention when you stepped out of your door. I kissed your face with a soft gentle breeze. I breathed upon you my fragrant sweet breath scented with flowers. Then, I gave you a love song through the birds in the trees. You just walked right past Me.

Later on in the day, I watched over you as you were talking with some of your friends. Oh, how I wished you would talk with Me, also. I waited and waited, but you just went along your way.

This afternoon I sent you a refreshing shower and glistened to you from each raindrop. I even shouted to you a time or two with thunder trying to get your attention. Then, I painted you a lovely rainbow in the midst of my fluffy white clouds. I just knew you would see me then, but you were unaware of my presence.

This evening, to close your day, I sent you a beautiful sunset. After that, I winked at you a thousand times through my stars hoping you would see Me and wink back. You never did.

Tonight, when you went to bed, I spilled moonlight upon your face to let you know that I was there with you. I was hoping you would talk to Me a little while before you went to sleep. You never said a word. It hurt Me deeply. However, I continued to watch over you all through the night thinking that, maybe, you would say hello to Me in the morning.

Each and every day, I have revealed myself to you in many strange and wondrous ways, hoping you would accept Me as your Shepherd. For I am the Only One who can supply you with all your needs. My love for you is deeper than the deepest ocean and bigger than the great blue sky. I have so very much to give to you and also share with you. Please let me hear from you soon.
Your loving Father,
God
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Sept. 29, 1996, p. 3]

SOMEONE NEEDS YOU
If you're feeling sad and lonely,
There seems nothing you can do,
Just take courage and remember
There is someone needing you.
You were created for a purpose.
For a part in God's great plan,
Bear ye one another's burdens.
So fulfill Christ's law to man.
Are you father, son or daughter?
You've a work none else can do.
Are you husband, wife or mother?
There is someone needing you.
If perhaps in bed you're lying
You can smile or press the hand
Of the one who tells his story;
He will know you understand.
There are many sad and lonely,
And discouraged, not a few,
Who a little cheer are needing,
And there's someone needing you.
Someone needs your faith and courage;
Someone needs your love and prayer;
Someone needs your inspiration,
Thus to help their cross to bear.
Do not think your work is ended,
There is much that you can do.
And as long as you're on earth,
There is someone needing you.

(John 10:10). In this day and time we hear a great deal about the American dream, this dream begins with food, raiment and shelter, and God wants us to have this, that is why He taught us to pray...(Matt. 6:11). Christ taught in the sermon on the mount...(Matt. 6:33). We must work towards that which is necessary, God told Judah when they were going into captivity, build you houses, plant you seed, grow you food and after seventy years I will bring you back to Judea. Most dreams do not stop with the necessities. Lust and pride take over. The love for money grows. Men strive for luxuries, and the rich fall into temptation. Paul wrote, having the necessities such as food and clothing let us there with be content (I Tim. 6:8). So having these things as recorded, let us set our mind on and seek those things which are above where Christ is (Col. 3:1-2).

If in this life only we have hope we have lived in vain. Let us strive to be approved of God so we can move in to houses we did not build, eat from the tree of life we did not plant, drink from the fountain that will never run dry, where there will be no pain, no sorrows, no tears in heaven.
[by Alvie from the Church of Christ at Salem [bulletin], McMinnville, July, 1998, p. 3]

WHAT IS THE CHURCH OF CHRIST
(Rom. 16:16).
The simple designation, Church of Christ, has gained great currency on the American scene, and increasingly throughout the world. The remarkable growth in this institution is causing many to inquire, "What is the Church of Christ?"

The Church of Christ is not a mere human society. It is not merely a fraternal body - a lodge. Nor is it solely a benevolent agency. It certainly is not a politico-religious organization. The church is not a denomination; not an invisible federation of all denominations. The church existed long before there was a denominational body on earth.

Christ promised to build his church. (Matt. 16:18). Fifty days after his resurrection, Christ established this holy institution; 3000 became Christians and were added to it. (Acts 2:38-47). The church was built upon Christ, the foundation. (I Cor. 3:11).

"Church" means "Called out". It refers to those who have been called out of the world by the gospel and redeemed by the blood of Christ. The church is that distinct called out body of Christ-minded people. (II Cor. 6:17).

The Church is the community of Christians. It is the society of Christian disciples. It is the fellowship of the redeemed. It is the holy fraternity of God. The church is presented as the spiritual body of Christ. Christ is the head. (Eph. 1:22-23). There is one head and one body. The term kingdom is employed to further define the church (Heb. 12:28). Christ is king. There is one kingdom: one king. The church is the bride of Christ (Eph. 5:31-32). Christ is groom. One bride: one groom. Thus Christ is inseparably connected with his church. For all practical purposes, Christ and his church are one.

The church is not a sectarian body. It is non-denominational and cohesive in its very nature. Being the "called out," it is "called together," a united brotherhood (John 17:20-21).
Wherever Christ is preached and men accept him in loving, faithful obedience, Christians are produced. (Gal. 3:27). God adds all Christians to the church, the non-denominational body of Christ.
The faithful church of Christ is the body of baptized believers who have faith in and render loving obedience to Jesus Christ.
God has promised to save this holy body. (Eph. 5:23). Eventually, Christ will come again.
It will pay you to investigate the Church of Christ.

Worship in the simplicity of the New Testament church.
(Acts 2:42; Eph. 5:19; John 4:24).

The New Testament church
(Eph. 2:20).
Founder: Christ (builder) (Matt. 16:18).
Place: Jerusalem (Isa. 2:3; Acts 2:5; Acts 2:47).
Time: A.D. 33 (Acts 2).
Head: Christ (Eph. 1:22).

Organization
1. Elders (Acts 14:23; Acts 20:17; Acts 20:28; I Pet. 5:1-3; I Tim. 3:1-7).
2. Deacons (Phili. 1:1; I Tim. 3:8-13).
3. Members (Acts 2:41-47; Rom. 12:4-5).

Name (collectively)
1. Church of God (I Cor. 1:2; Acts 20:28).
2. Church of Christ (Rom. 16:16; Matt. 16:18).
3. House of God (I Tim. 3:15).
4. Church of Firstborn (Heb. 12:23).

Name (individually)
1. Disciples (Acts 11:26; Acts 20:7).
2. Saints (I Cor. 1:2; Rom. 1:7; Phili. 1:1).
3. Brethren (Gal. 6:1; I Cor. 15:1-3; I Cor. 15:22, 36).
4. Christians (Acts 11:26; Acts 26:28; I Pet. 4:16).

Worship
1. In spirit and in truth (John 4:24).
2. Sing (Eph. 5:19).
3. Pray (I Thes. 5:17).
4. Teach (Acts 20:7).
5. Communion (Acts 20:7; I Cor. 11:23-29).
6. Contribution (I Cor. 16:2).

Creed: Jesus Christ (John 3:16; Matt. 16:16-18).
Rule of faith: Word of God (II Tim. 3:16-17; Rom. 1:16; II Pet. 1:3).
Unity (John 17:20-21; Eph. 4:3-6; I Cor. 1:10).
Mission: Save souls (Eph. 3:10; John 6:45; I Tim. 4:16).
Membership: Faith - Repentance - Confession - Baptism

KEEP PADDLING
Two frogs fell into a bucket of cream,
And had to paddle to keep afloat,
But one soon tired and sank to rest,
With a gargling sound in his throat.

The other paddled away all night,
And not a croak did he utter.
And with the coming of morning light,
He rode on an island of butter.

The flies came thick to his island home,
And made him a breakfast snappy.
The milk maid shrieked and upset the pail,
And froggie hopped away happy.

A moral can anyone find in this rhyme,
We hasten at once to apply;
Success will come in most difficult time,
If we paddle and NEVER say die.

The teaching in this poem is:
1. The two frogs represent two Christians in the church of Christ.
2. Both obeyed the gospel and started out the same.
3. One gargled (complained) and finally quit the Lord and his church.
4. The other kept right on working without complaint...year after year...doing the best he could.
5. The Lord watched over him, gave him strength and supplied his needs.
6. Finally, in God's due time, the one that kept the faith and never gave up, was eternally rewarded by God through his Son Jesus Christ.

Which frog are you?
[by Mr. C.G. Annis, Oklahoma City, OK]

WHAT DO YOU OWE?

What do you owe God, you ask?
Suppose he sent His bill;
One hundred thousand dollars
For the sun upon the hill,
Two thousand for the brook
That runs along the way,
Five hundred for the night,
And a thousand for the day;
Six hundred for tiny flowers
Which tell us of spring -
These are the bills which
Everyone forgets;
If God should charge you
What you owe,
You'd always be in debt.

Being we OWE Him so much, what can we do for Him?
Dear blessed Lord, "What would you have me do?"

Jesus, "I died for you so that you might have eternal life. I would have you believe in Me with all your heart. Then repent of all your past sins. Boldly confess me before men. Then, by faith, be baptized into Me as I have commanded you in Gal. 3:27; Acts 2:38.

Then, dear one, I expect you to serve Me and remain faithful 'til death. I will save you and add you to My church and we will be one until I come again to take you unto Myself into heaven."
(Rom. 6:23).

WORSHIP AND EVANGELISM

I.	Worship (John 4).
	A.	Jesus was the Messiah who found a ___.
	B.	Worship is a worshipper finding the One worthy of ___.
II.	Evangelism (John 17).
	A.	Let's be honest and just admit that we have not been very __ in evangelism.
	B.	And it's because we have not __ with God in our worship of Him.
	C.	John 17:6-19 - Jesus prayed for their:
		1.	Relationship with __.
		2.	Relationship with each __.
		3.	Relationship to the __.
	D.	Could it be that these are the biblical __ for the church?
	E.	The best avenue to church growth is __, which leads to real __, which leads to real __.
	F.	When a person has seen the impossible, really seen God, __ is not an option.

MYTHS ABOUT FORGIVENESS
Introduction: Too many people live in a prison cell of misery caused by a lack of forgiveness. Sadly, most of that misery is unnecessary and self-induced. It can be remedied by debunking the myths about forgiveness.

I.	Myth #1: God could never forgive me. (Rom. 5:6-8).
	A.	God forgives because it is His nature to forgive. (Rom. 5:8; I John 4:8).
	B.	He has already forgiven us! (Luke 15:11-32; John 3:16).
	C.	Forgiveness is only meaningful and recognized when it is accepted.
II.	Myth #2: I can never forgive __! Myths that fuel this myth include:
	A.	Time heals all wounds.
	B.	I must __ my __ to forgive.
	C.	Forgiveness and __ are the same things.
	D.	To forgive is to __.
III.	What is the truth about forgiveness?
	A.	First, realize that God has forgiven you.
		1.	Eph. 4:32.
		2.	Matt. 18:21-35.
	B.	Forgiveness is a choice, not an emotion.
	C.	Understand the consequences of an unforgiving heart (Matt. 18:32-33).
		1.	resentment.
		2.	damnation.
	D.	Be ready to __ the process. (Matt. 18:21-22).
IV.	Is there anybody you need to forgive? Apply these 3 tests:
	A.	The blame test.
	B.	The bitterness test.
	C.	The behavior test.

Conclusion: With regard to forgiveness, you can either rehearse or release it.

BELIEVE IT OR NOT
Introduction: There are many myths in our culture that cause great misery. We will examine a few of these.
Central to this theme is what you choose to believe. In fact, the myth we will debunk is,
"It doesn't matter what you believe as long as you are sincere.

I.	Principles about your beliefs:
	A.	You __ what you believe.
		1.	Prov. 8:10.
		2.	Rom. 1:25.
	B.	By beliefs control my __. (Prov. 4:23).
	C.	The __ bombards us with __ beliefs.
		1.	I John 4:1.
		2.	I John 2:16.
	D.	__ beliefs are the #1 source of my __. (John 8:32).
	E.	The source of absolute __ is __.
		1.	Isa. 45:19.
		2.	John 14:6.
		3.	Luke 21:33.
		4.	Psa. 119:89.
	F.	Building my life on God's __ is the key to genuine __.
II.	Commit to the following:
	A.	Commit to __ the truth.
		1.	I Tim. 4:7.
		2.	II Tim. 4:3-4.
	B.	Commit to __ the truth. (John 3:18).
	C.	Commit to __ the truth. (II Thes. 2:10).

[by Steve Flatt, July, 1997]

THEME OR ELEMENT OF CHRISTIAN FAITH

I Thes. and II Thes.	Understanding God's timetable for Christ's coming, establishing His kingdom, and the second coming.
Gal.	Clarifies the purpose of the law of Moses and its relationship to the Christian faith.
I Cor.	Dealing with life and problems in the church; transforming our human nature to a spiritual nature.
II Cor.	Paul's account of his ministry, his motives, his sacrifices, and his defense of his apostleship.
Rom.	Justification of faith the fundamental principle of man's being made right with God; power of the gospel.
Matt.	Sets forth Jesus as Messiah in fulfillment of prophecy establishing the kingdom of heaven among men.
Mark	Sets Jesus forth as Son of God to convince the Romans He has authority on earth by recording His powerful deeds.
James	A study of practical Christianity; our faith at work saving ourselves and ministering to others.
Luke	A historian's chronological, orderly view of Jesus' ministry, presenting Him as the Savior of all people, fulfilling God's purpose in redemption.
Acts	Volume II of Luke's history of the beginning of Christianity and establishment of the church and its spread throughout the whole world; the mission of God's people activated by the Holy Spirit.
Eph.	God's purpose in history fulfilled in the church; our lives blessed and transformed by sharing its life.
Phili.	A letter of love and joy in Christ shared in fellowship with Paul's spiritual family at Philippi.
Col.	The divine nature of Jesus and His pre-eminence in the church and our lives.
Phile.	A belief illustration of God's providence in the conversion of Philemon's slave, Onesimus.
Heb.	A message of encouragement to Jews who became Christians, suffered persecution and were debating giving up their faith; establishes Christ as God's greatest gift to men.
I Tim. & II Tim.	Explains the work of the evangelist, the nature of leadership in the church; Paul's sense of victory as he nears the end of his life having lived totally for Christ.
Jude	An admonition to contend earnestly for the faith against heretics and false teachers.
Titus	Provides consolation for Titus in his ministry of building up the church; teaching on God's grace and our works.
I Pet. & II Pet.	Consolation to Christians scattered by persecution, encouraging them to Christian growth and faithfulness; warning against false teachers and their efforts.
I John, II John & III John	Thoughts on life Christ as a fellowship of love; the need to follow truth not false teachers, commends Christian service and sharing of our lives.
John	Record of Jesus' ministry written to produce faith in Him as God's son; John's reflections on and the interpretations of the spiritual nature of Jesus and His church as the 1st century comes to an end.
Rev.	A testimony to the rewards of faith to provide hope and optimism for struggling Christians. A "picture book" of the security of God's people and the ultimate triumph of the Christian faith.

[by Paul Forshey]

A WISE WOMAN KNOWS:
1. Anything you do will make somebody unhappy.
2. If you agree to do it, nobody else will try.
3. God doesn't want you busy about everything, but He does want you busy about something. He even knows what it is.
4. You should always forgive your enemies. It will please some and bewilder the rest.
5. Sometimes the reason you feel guilty is because you are.
6. If you don't decide how to spend your life, somebody else will decide for you.
7. If you know what you want to be and do, you'll also know what you don't have to be or do.
8. If you don't know where you want to go, you'll never know whether you get there.
9. Planning involves praying, thinking, and writing.
10. The greatest enemy of the best you can do is not the worst you can do, but the almost-best.
11. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.
12. If you spend minutes wisely, hours and days take care of themselves.
13. You don't do goals; you do tasks to meet goals.
14. The point of planning is to decrease stress. Don't settle for anything less.
15. What I can do is what I can do, and what I can do is enough.
16. Work smarter, not harder.
17. The problem is usually not the problem itself, but what you do with the problem.
18. What I look for is not how to gain a firm hold on myself and on life, but primarily how to live a life that would deserve and invoke an eternal Amen.
[by Patricia H. Sprinkler from Women Who Do Too Much]

Why is there so many religious institutions that exist today when as the Lord said I will build My church, and as the Holy Spirit gave guidance to the establishing the Church on Pentecost? Was it because the Spirit left loopholes for man to fill in, or to the imagination of man to insert or remove as he so desired? Not at all, the word of God sorely condemns taking away or adding to God's final revelation to man. The reason unauthorized religious bodies exist is given by inspiration, saying...(Prov. 14:12). Jeremiah said...(Jer. 10:23). The Lord said...(Mark 7:6-8). We became children of God by obeying from the heart that form of doctrine which we were delivered. We are instructed to...(Acts 2:42). We are not to be tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, or by the trickery and cunning craftiness of men. If we do not abide in the doctrine of Christ we do not have God. We are not to greet or receive those who do not bring sound doctrine (II John 9-10).
The scripture given to man is complete. God has given to us all things pertaining to life and godliness. (II Tim. 3:16-17; II Pet. 1:3).
[by Alvie from the Church of Christ at Salem [bulletin], McMinnville, Dec., 1997, p. 3]

LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE
Once a traveler came to a French village, night was approaching, and the people were hurrying through the streets. The traveler noticed that each person was carrying a bronze lamp. To his inquiry about this, he received the following reply:

"These people are going to the village church. When it was built, it was decided that each member would bring his own light to the night service. There is no other way to light the church, and everyone goes to make the church brighter. Each one realized that if he is not there, the church will be darker."

The traveler went to the meeting house, and there he found that on every seat was a place to hang a lamp. As more members came, the building became brighter and brighter. Do you realize the church is darker when you stay home? Your light is needed every Sunday and every Wednesday night.
[from Church of Christ at Smyrna [bulletin], Dec. 14, 1997, p. 3]

THINGS UNDONE
There comes an hour of sadness
With the setting of the sun
Not for the sins committed
But the things I have not done.

The things I didn't do
The friends I didn't see
The words I didn't speak
Now it's too late for me.

The visits I didn't make
"I had a busy day."
Forgive my selfishness, Lord,
I don't mean to be this way.

One day I took a look at myself,
At the self that Christ can see;
I saw the person I am today,
And the one I ought to be.

I saw how little I really pray,
How little I really do:
I saw the influence of my life
How little of it was true!

I saw my faults and fears
I ought to lay on the shelf;
I had given a little to God,
But I hadn't given myself.

I came from looking at myself,
With my mind made up to be;
A Christian that Christ can use
All my life and eternally.
[from Church of Christ at Smyrna [bulletin], Dec. 14, 1997, p. 4]

ARE WE SPECTATORS?
A spectator is "one who looks on or watches" (Webster's, 1132). We are all spectators in some ways as we enjoy watching sporting events or fashion shows. But one place where we are not to be mere onlookers is our Christianity. Elijah, facing Jews who were nothing more than religious spectators, said...(I Kings 18:21). We must be careful that we are always "participators" and not "spectators".

Are we spectators in worship? Worship, as a part of speech, is usually a verb and each act requires mental energy. Jesus commanded His followers to worship...(John 4:24). When songs are led, do we listen or sing? When the lesson is preached, do we study or daydream? When the plate is passed, do we participate or "observe the passover"? For worship to be worthy of God's good pleasure, it demands our best (Mal. 1:3).

Are we spectators in service? Each Christian is to be active in serving others (Gal. 5:13). When the sick and bereaved are announced, do we pray for them, send cards, offer encouraging words and/or make visits? These things show our love to the world (John 13:34-35).

Are we spectators in soul winning? Is teaching the lost something "they" do rather than something in which "I" am engaged? The command to "teach all nations" was not just given to preachers and elders but all men (Matt. 28:19).

"There is much to do, there is work on every hand. Hark the cry for help comes ringing through the land. Jesus calls for workers, I must active be. What wilt thou O Master, here am I send me."
[from Church of Christ at Smyrna [bulletin], Dec. 14, 1997, p. 4]

SHALL THEY PREACH US THE WORD?
Time magazine runs an article on Lawmen who break the law while enforcing the law. Why do they do it? In order to convict the bad guys. Yet, as the article notes, the end does not justify the means.

Religion is plagued with this same mentality. Folk advocate programs "because they work." These are not just the liberals. The traditionalists are also engaged in it.

Whatever happened to "speaking as the oracles of God"? (I Pet. 4:11). This has become almost foreign in "churches of Christ". Many equate it with simple pasting a verse alongside of that we proposed to proclaim. No wonder it is difficult to find someone with whom you can rationally discuss scripture. More and more, folk fail to stand for principle because they argue for their prejudices. Under such circumstances, who are we to condemn another? (Rom. 2:1f).
Some faithful brethren remain who are able to lead us out of this morass. We must remove their handcuffs and let them preach us the Word.
[by Jim Gammon from The Weekly Visitor, Central church of Christ, McMinnville, vol. 18, no. 50, Dec. 14, 1997, p. 1]

HEALING PRAYER
Father, in the name of Jesus, I confess your Word concerning healing. As I do this, I believe and say that your Word will not return void, but will accomplish what it says it will. Therefore I believe, in the name of Jesus, that I am being healed. It is written in your Word, Jesus himself took our infirmities and bore our sicknesses. Therefore with great boldness and confidence I say on the Authority of the Written Word of God, that I am redeemed from the curse of sickness and I refuse to tolerate its symptoms. Satan, I speak to you in the name of Jesus and say that your principalities, powers, your spirits you have, the present darkness, and your spiritual wickedness in heavenly places are bound from operating against me in any way. I am the property of the Lord Jesus Christ, I am a Child of God, and I give you no place in me. I dwell in the secret place of the most High God, I abide, I remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty. His power is in me and no foe can withstand me. Now, Father, because I receive and worship you, I have the assurance of your Word, that the Angel of the Lord encamps around about me and delivers me from every evil work. No evil shall befall me, no plague, nor calamity shall come near my dwelling. I confess the Word of God abides in me and delivers me. Perfect delivers me, perfect sound of mind, and wholeness in body and spirit from the deepest parts of my nature, in my immortal spirit, even to the joints and marrow of my bones, that the Word of God is medication and life to my flesh. For the Law of the Spirit of Life operates in me and makes me free from the Law of Sin and Death. I have on the whole Armor of God and the Shield of Faith which protects me from all the fiery darts of the Wicked One. Jesus is my High Priest, and He is hearing my confession and I hold fast to this confession of Faith through the Word of God. I stand immovable and fixed in full assurance that I have health and healing, in the name of Jesus Christ. That my healing has been purchased through the Blood of Jesus Christ, and the anointing power of the Lord is being released into my life, it is attacking my diseases and I am being healed.
[by John Hagee from the Healing Scriptures]

10 WAYS TO FIND TIME TO READ THE BIBLE
1. Wake up ten minutes earlier each morning and read.
2. Put a Bible portion under your pillow to read each night before sleep.
3. Talk less and you will have a few more minutes to read.
4. Keep a copy on hand in the kitchen, or at the telephone to read while you "hold".
5. Carry a copy of the Bible in your purse or pocket to read while waiting for doctors, unpunctual people, etc.
6. Never go on a trip without your Bible.
7. Keep a copy in the glove compartment of the car.
8. Remember, a Bible in your hand is worth two on the table.
9. Turn the TV off and read to your children.
10. Read a verse or two at meal time when all the family is together.

Open your eyes and see the lonely of your congregation.
Open your eyes to the sister, whose mate is not a Christian.
Open your eyes to encourage the weary.
Open your eyes to the grieving parents whose children have become unfaithful to the Lord.
Open your eyes to the divorced person, to the widow.
Open your eyes to the terminally ill.
Open your eyes to the teenager who is striving to be faithful in the midst of discouragement from peers.
Open your eyes to those lost in sin, who have forsaken their first love.
Open your eyes to your brothers and sisters in your spiritual family, whose needs are crying out to you.

EVERYTHING IS GOING MY WAY
Oh I am young and filled with life, how shall I spend my day?
This morning I will play golf, then have lunch with my friends - everything is going my way.
After lunch I'll go for a walk in the park, after dinner a movie I'll see.
I'm so glad God gave me good health, to enjoy these great days with Thee.
Then suddenly I awaken from my dream, into a room of gloom.
I'm a critical care patient in a hospital bed, quickly my gleam turns to doom.
I lay there quietly, looking around, waiting for someone to come brighten my day.
But they're all too busy enjoying good health - everything is going their way.
As time passes by and no one comes, I fall into a stupor.
I search for the little girl of my dreams, for I have something I must say to her.
Oh little girl, enjoy good health, as often as you can.
But remember, God gave good health to you, so that you could help your fellow man.
Don't be self-indulging with your time; give some to those in need.
For some day you will fill this bed, it is the end of every seed.
Pure religion means putting others first, each and every day.
Put others first than then have fun - and everything will go your way.
[by David L. Reed from Eustis church of Christ bulletin]

GIFTS YOU CAN GIVE YEAR ROUND
Gift of praise. Appropriate mention, right in front of the other fellow, of superior qualities, job, or deeds well done.
Gift of consideration. Putting yourself in the other's shoes and thus providing your genuine understanding of his side of the case.
Gift of concession. Humbly saying at just the right point, "I am sorry, you are right, and I am wrong."
Gift of gratitude. Never forgetting to say "thank you," and never failing to mean it.
Gift of attention. When the other fellow speaks, listen attentively. If his words are directed to you personally, meet his eye squarely.
Gift of inspiration. Plant seeds of courage and action in the other person's heart.
Gift of your personal presence. In sickness, in trouble, or in great joy, there is nothing quite equal to your personal expression of sympathy or congratulations.
Resolve to give these gifts each day of the new year and you will be pleasantly surprised at what you receive in return.
[New Port Richey, Fla.]

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