SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
In the 1956 Abilene Christian College Bible Lectures, Judge Sam Davis Tatum, Judge of the Juvenile Court of Davidson County, Nashville, Tennessee, made the following statement.

"Since I became judge of the Juvenile Court of Davidson County on June 1, 1939, I have tried approximately 14,500 youngsters under the age of 17 for violating the law in that jurisdiction. Of that great host of children, in only two instances, did the father and mother go to Sunday School and church regularly with their children" (Abilene Christian College Bible Lectures, 1956, page 43).

Did you get what he said? He said only two out of about 14,500 parents had attended Sunday School and church regularly with their children. That point cannot be missed. And unless I misunderstand what he was saying, it is evident that regular attendance at Bible classes and worship services by the whole family makes a decided and positive difference in the character development and conduct of children. Since that is the obvious case, how can any parent place more emphasis upon preparing for college and, ultimately, a place in the world, when the soul of their child is more important than even the whole world. (Matt. 16:26).

Take a good look at your family. If you have been putting the emphasis in the wrong place, set it right! Be at all services of the church every time it meets.
[by Bruce Holt, Kennett, Missouri from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 4, 1995, p. 3]

Love is not like a reservoir. You can never drain it dry. It is more like a natural spring. The longer and farther it flows, the stronger and deeper and clearer it becomes.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 4, 1995, p. 3]

HOW TO LISTEN TO A SERMON
Do not be a criticizing listener. The minister makes mistakes as well as you; if he were perfect, he would not be here.
Do not be a sermon fitter, trying to fit the sermon to someone else. If the sermon does not fit you, let your neighbor fit it to himself.
Do not be a sermon taster. The sermon is not intended to be pleasing to your aesthetic nature or your hobbies, but to leave you a better person.
Listen with a mind prepared by prayer and expectation.
Listen with a humble mind. Let the searching light of the gospel reveal the need of your heart.
Listen with an open mind. You may disagree with the sermon, but remember one of the functions of a true sermon is to disturb your complacency.
Listen with a prayerful attitude. A sermon conceived in prayer, meeting upon sympathetic, humble, cooperative minds, will be used as seeds sown upon soil watered by the Spirit, springing up into life many-fold.
[from Minister's Monthly Jan., 1968 via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 4, 1995, p. 3]

IT ONLY TAKES A MINUTE...
...to stop and say a few words to the newcomer, that you have passing by, with a quick "hello".
...to draw a person who is obviously feeling like an outsider into a chattering group.
...to make the introduction, that may not be necessary, but that will demonstrate friendliness.
...to write a note to a person who is ill, or who has lost a member of the family.
...to really listen to what a child is earnestly telling you.
...to take the trouble to pass along the good things that you know about others.
...to build up a person who is feeling low, or seems to be worried or discouraged.
[from Gal Talk, Lubbock, Tex. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 4, 1995, p. 4]

HOW TO BE A FRIENDLY CHURCH
We have visitors every week, and I am thankful for them because they are a primary source of new growth. To be regarded as a friendly church is a precious commodity. It takes work to maintain that important trait. Here are some rules that will help us perpetuate a friendly environment.
The 30-second rule: Most guests will make a judgment about us during the first 30 seconds after they enter. Let's greet people at the doors with a handshake and a smile. "We're so glad you came!"
The front door rule: Many people need help to find their classes or a seat in the auditorium. If they find it difficult to locate a class or seat, they may choose not to return.
The aisle rule: Unless you need to be on an aisle, leave room for visitors and guests to sit on the aisles. Our long pews make it necessary for many of us to sit in the middle.
The 10-foot rule: Greet any person with whom you are not familiar who comes within ten feet of you. Make eye contact and be friendly.
The five-minute rule: Take the first five minutes after services to seek out guests and greet them. Encourage them to return and thank them for coming.
Our attitude will determine whether or not they return. They come back when they feel welcomed and appreciated. Let's do our best to see that this happens.
[by Allan Eaken, the West Side Epistle via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 28, 1995, p. 3]

WHAT IS YOUR GOAL?
In the days when Will Rogers lived, a football game was played in the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. It came to pass, at a moment of supreme importance, that a player caught a bounding ball. In the heat of the excitement, he lost the sense of direction and headed at top speed for the goal of the opposing team. Finally, just before reaching the goal, he was tackled by a teammate.

Then fell upon the poor lad an avalanche of criticism. Sportswriters - many of them - "raked him over the coals" But Will Rogers came to the player's defense. In these words or in words of similar meaning, he wrote: "Why heap criticism upon this unfortunate fellow for running with the ball in the wrong direction? Is it not a fact that a vast majority of us are headed in the wrong direction and running at top speed toward the wrong goal?"

The great humorist scored an important point. Most people are running at top speed in the wrong direction, toward the wrong goal - that of sensual pleasure, of material wealth, of personal glory. Many Christians need to be "tackled by a teammate." Like the great apostle Paul - one of God's true athletes - let us make the high calling of God our aim, Christlikeness our goal.
(Phili. 3:13-14).
[by Frank L. Cox, Sulphur Strong-Hold via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 28, 1995, p. 3]

OLD ZION
There's a stout old ship aswinging down the squallin' sea o' time.
From the arctic to the tropic, she has weathered ever' clime.
The spankin' wind o' heaven is a-boomin' in her sails;
She's outlived a thousand vessels; she's outrode a thousand gales.

They call her name Old Zion, an' she flies a flag o' love.
At her bow the spray is breakin' on the figure of a dove.
Her skipper's name is Jesus, an' He's got a hearty crew;
An' her log's the heavy record of the storms He's brought her thru'.
Aye, through many a storm He's brought her, an' by many a battered wreck,
With the black wind in her riggin' an' the gray spume on her deck;
With spoutin' at her scuttles in the high an' howlin' squall.
And He's but her through the narrows where the combers foam and crawl.
On the course that she's been chartered she has sighted many boats;
But still she tops the record of ever'thing that floats!
She left Diana's Galley, that was gleamin' like the stars,
With her ragged sheets a flappin' about her creakin' spars!
She passed a ship called Islam with a black flag at her mast;
An' she left old stately Buddha a flounderin' in the past!

Now, some mighty modern vessels are astandin' out to sea,
With their heavy guns agawkin' an' their smoke arollin' free,
But Old Zion keeps aflyin' an' she holds a' even keel;
For the Skipper's got His compass an' His hand is on the wheel.
There's a boomin' in her canvas, there's a singin' in her crew;

An' all the pirates craft o' Satan knows Old Zion's comin' through!
Aye, she's headed homeward, come calm or windy flood!
An' they'll wind her sheets forever in the quiet port o' God.
[by Lon Woodrum from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Dec. 18, 1994, p. 3]

WHAT IS SAID WHEN YOU ARE ABSENT?
Have you ever considered the comments by fellow Christians when a member of the church is absent from service? These comments, or lack of them, usually provide a good clue to the faithfulness and dependability of a church member. Note what the following remarks indicate:

"There must be something wrong." This is usually heard when a member is unexpectedly absent who is ordinarily present for every service. It indicates that he is not one who lets trivial things like a headache or even a house guest keep him from worship. He's always in his place unless something is seriously wrong.

"Oh, they're on vacation." This remark about an absent family pictures Christians who are responsible. They let others know they are going to be away. They make arrangements for the classes they teach and leave their contribution to be given as they prospered so the church can carry on its work even though they are absent.

"They are probably out of town for the week end." The impression is left that these folks are perhaps not quite as dependable. Most likely, if they are gone there is a good reason.

Nothing is said. When this occurs, it probably means that the person is absent more than they are present. He may be absent so much that no one notices it anymore, or they just assume that he is willfully forsaking the assembling as usual.

What do people say when you are absent? What does this say about you? This is food for thought for all of us!
[from Orange St. Church of Christ Nov. 20, 1994 via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Dec. 18, 1994, p. 4]

I CAN WORSHIP HIM ON THE GOLF COURSE
A few years ago I was talking to a fellow about his lack of church attendance. When asked why he didn't attend, he responded:
"Sunday is my only day off so I spend it playing golf. Besides, I can worship Him on the golf course."
I then asked him: "Yes, in a way, you can worship God on the gold course...but do you?"
The fellow was silent for a long while. Then, almost in a whisper, he said, "No, my mind is on the game."
"If your mind was on God where would you be on Sundays?" I asked.
That was all of our conversation for that day. But the next Sunday the fellow was back at church and confessed his sin of unfaithfulness.
While a person can pray to God and sing his praise outside the meeting of the congregation, if he is truly spiritual, he will assemble with the saints unless providentially hindered.
(Heb. 10:25).
[by Larry Fitzzgerald from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Dec. 11, 1994, p. 3]

A preacher tells of he and his wife's first Thanksgiving as husband and wife. They were still in college, living in a small apartment. Funds were low. Their first Thanksgiving Dinner together looked thin. Then, in a sales paper, they saw a car dealership ad offering free Thanksgiving Turkeys for test driving one of their cars. The young, almost broke, couple decided to give it a try. At the car lot, they selected a model that looked like one they could afford. They kicked the tires, walked around the car, then stood back, looking it over. Soon, a salesman joined them. After some small talk, he had them take the car for a test drive. Back at the show room, he offered them a deal. They said that they wanted to go home and think it over. On their way out, the ministerial student asked in a matter of fact manner, "what about the turkey?" With a subtle grin, the salesman said, "follow me". He took them to the back of the car lot where several live turkeys were kept in a fence. He said, "If you can catch one, you are welcome to him."

The minister did not say if he caught his Thanksgiving Turkey. However, we need to catch the Thanksgiving spirit, not just on Thanksgiving, but throughout the year. (I Thes. 5:18; Eph. 5:20).

Let us reflect upon our blessings and give thanks for them. Also, we need to express our thanks to others. Let us truly make this a Thanksgiving season.
[by Will Wilson, Waldorf, Md. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla, Dec. 11, 1994, p. 3]

MY CHILD DOESN'T LIKE BIBLE CLASS
"My child doesn't like to go to Bible School. What can I do about it?" Here are some suggestions from those who have studies this problem.
1. You can be constructive. Don't criticize or blame the teacher, the lesson, or the child. A negative attitude only complicates matters, and hardly ever helps.
2. You can be enthusiastic about the class, the teacher, the lesson, the other children, and about preparing for the Lord's day. Kindly (but firmly) ignore any negative expression by the child.
3. You can prepare through the week for the class. Do not rush, scold, or nag on Sunday morning or Wednesday night, this will only make things worse. Prepare clothes ahead of time. Get up early enough for child to leisurely finish his morning routine.
4. You can help the child participate in the class. Have him select and take flowers for the class table, or in some other way make him feel a part of the class. Participation increases interest. Present him a challenge so that he will seek to favorably respond.
5. You can try to take one or more of his neighborhood friends with you to the class. Offer to stop and pick up other children. Helping someone else to attend adds importance to the event.
6. You can expand your activities at home. Sing Bible songs as you work. Repeat Bible stories or incidents as you have opportunity. Familiarity with Bible material helps the child to respond.
7. You can help your child through prayer. Pray with him about his class, teacher, and friends. We all need to pray about the teaching of God's word.
8. Help your child to prepare his Bible school lesson for the following week. Read aloud to him each day. This will help him to establish the habit of daily Bible reading.
[by Charles Curtis, Scottsboro, Ala. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla, Dec. 11, 1994, p. 4]

LAUGHTER
"Why didn't you report the robbery at once?" an insurance agent asked a woman claimant. "Didn't you suspect something when you came home and discovered all the drawers opened and the contents scattered all over the room?" "Not really," she replied. "I thought my husband had been looking for matching socks."
[via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla, Dec. 11, 1994, p. 4]

WHERE ARE YOU?
A national survey by various religious bodies revealed the following about their membership:
10% could not be found.
20% never attend any assembly.
25% admit that they never pray.
35% admit that they never study God's word.
40% never contribute to the Lord's work.
70% never get involved in the Lord's work.
75% never attend Sunday evening services.
95% never win a soul for Christ.
but 100% expect to go to heaven for eternity!
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 26, 1995, p. 3]

THE TOUCH OF THE MASTER'S HAND
The story is told that among the objects being auctioned in a small curio shop in London many years ago was an old, dingy-looking violin. As the bidding began, the auctioneer held the instrument above his head and told the bidders that it was a genuine Stradivarius. His announcement was met with much disbelief.

The bidding began and someone offered a guinea, about two-and-a-half dollars. The auctioneer again explained that this was a very rare and valuable instrument but the crowd was unconvinced and the bidding stopped.

Meanwhile, an old man made his way to the stage and picked up the instrument. He held it up to his ear as though the old violin had some secret to whisper. He then tightened up all the strings and quietly began to play. As he did so, the crowd became silent, and the most glorious music began to pour forth from the old violin.

As the music died away the crowd became enthusiastic and the bidding resumed. This time the people offered large sums of money to purchase the instrument. The touch of a master's hand had made the difference.

This incident is said to have inspired Myra B. Welch to write the poem, "The Touch of the Master's Hand." Part of the last stanza of that poem reads:

And many a man with life out of tune
And battered and torn with sin
Is auctioned cheap to a thoughtless crowd
Much like the old violin
But the Master comes and the foolish crowd
can never quite understand
The worth of a soul and the change that is wrought
By the touch of the Master's Hand.

Everyday we meet people who have been "battered and torn with sin." Some of them may seem repulsive to our natural instincts. Let us not look on them as does the thoughtless crowd, but try to see each of them as souls that are loved by God. Visualize each one as what they may become through the touch of the Master's hand, and let Him use you to make that happen.

It is my prayer that this will be the most glorious and prosperous year of your lives.
[by Oscar Wilkie from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 26, 1995, p. 3]

EFFECTIVE PREACHING
I recently apologized to the congregation for preaching such effective sermons. "How do I know they are so effective? Simply because it only takes one per week for some, one per month for others, and only one per year for a few." Ken says for some people, "a little dab will do you."

Does it seem strange that the more active you are in the Lord's work, the more you see the need to be at every service? The stronger your faith becomes, the more active your service is. If you feel nothing or think nothing about forsaking the worship of the Lord, you can rest assured that you have a weak faith. Don't fool yourself into believing God will accept your half hearted service by giving you a home in Heaven. (James 1:22).
[by Charles Burch from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 26, 1995, p. 4]

BE AN EXAMPLE
Albert Schweitzer once said, "Example is not the main thing in influencing others - it is the only thing."

We should never underestimate the power of our example on our children. We teach what we know, but we reproduce what we are. Much of what we do today was modeled by our parents. For example, without my mother knowing it, I often listened outside my parents' room as she prayed. I learned a lot from that, and it's helped me to be intimate with God in my prayers as an adult.
[by John C. Maxwell, "Getting to Know God with your Children", Focus on the Family, May 1995, via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 28, 1995, p. 3]

HOW TO BRING UP CHILDREN
The rearing of children is probably the most difficult task on the face of this earth. All of us desperately want our children to turn out right. I certainly do not claim to have all the answers. As a matter of fact, the older I get the less I know. However, I want to make some suggestions in this article that I hope will help all of us in bringing up our children.
1. Make home the brightest and most attractive place on earth. When children grow up in a good, happy atmosphere they have a very good chance of becoming good, happy individuals.
2. Spend time with your children. Many children are literally being starved for affection because their mama and daddy do not take time for them. Many children know their baby sitters better than their own parents. Our children need us! They will soon be gone and then we will have all the time we need.
3. Make your children responsible for a limited number of duties at home. This will teach them responsibility and the importance of work.
4. Impress upon your children's minds that making character is more important than making money. (Rom. 12:17). We must teach our children the importance of integrity.
5. Realize the importance of example. The power of example is the greatest influence we have on our children. If you want your children to be like Christ, then live Christ before them.
As parents, our task is difficult, but certainly it is not impossible. With God's help we can properly rear our children. It takes a lot of prayer, wisdom and effort. May we never forget...(Psa. 127:3-5).
[by Ken Tyler, The Exhorter, Arab, Ala. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 28, 1995, p. 4]

LIVING IN A RIP TIDE
A rip tide occurs when two waves meet at just the right angle, causing a powerful current draining back into the sea. The current is so strong that swimmers caught in it are swept out into the open ocean at an alarming rate.
It is fatal to attempt to swim against a rip tide. You just simply exhaust yourself and drown.
There are two ways of escape if caught in such a tide:
* Swim with the tide until it has run its course and is swallowed up in the inertia of the vast ocean.
* Swim across it. Rip tides are only a few feet wide. On either side there is safety in calm water.
Of course even the experienced swimmer seldom thinks of these two options in his frightened state of being hurled out to sea at an ever increasing speed and is drowned in his determination to fight the irresistible force.
What can we learn from this sea side phenomenon? It is impossible to fight against God. We must go with Him, submit to Him or drown in life's struggles. Gamaliel's advice is sound...(Acts 5:39).
The more David tried to cover up his sin with Bathsheba, the deeper he was swept into sin. A fatal mistake that consumed his life.
(Acts 3:19-20).
Direction is everything. When the forces of this world seem to be beating us down, remember that calm waters are only a short distance away. Paul told the Athenians that God is never far from any of us.
Many have found God in their troubles. Jonah found God's grace in the belly of a fish. The prodigal son found Him in sin's pig pen. Where will we find Him?
David wrote...(Psa. 86:5). God is omnipotent. The rip tide is swallowed up in the vastness of the sea. There is no device of man nor Satan, no circumstance in life that can endure against God's will. (Rom. 8:31-39).
Rip tides can occur at any time. God never promised us a life free of troubles and trials, but He did promise to be with us and provide a way of escape. Remember!

Make sure our sea of trouble is not a result of our opposing God.
Turn to Him for help. God is near.
There is no sea He can not calm.
[by Randall Caselman, Lifelines, Bella Vista Church of Christ, Benttonville, Ark. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Apr. 23, 1995, p. 3]

HOW TO LOSE A CHRISTIAN
It would be a useless endeavor to set forth all those proofs that point conclusively that a saved person may be lost. For the doubtful ones we ask only that they examine very carefully the following passages of scripture: Gal. 5:4; II Pet. 3:17; Heb. 12:15. In this article my intention is to set forth some ways in which a Christian may be lost.

A Christian may be lost by trying to gain the world. It is easy to recognize most of this type. Work (to take care of the family, naturally) always comes first. If there is a choice to make between work and Christian worship, Bible classes, or some soul-saving endeavor, don't expect this type of person to be loyal to Christ. He will fail you every time. In America we have the problem of all being rich (by the world's standards). Trying to keep up with the Jones' we continue to amass our fortunes and our love for things continue to grow. In proportion our love for Christ grows cold. Oh what a sad day for the child of God when the words of Christ become words of denunciation. (Mark 10:23).

A Christian may fail to be saved by failing to give heed. I think of all the good souls I have known who were not interested in gaining the world, cared nothing for riches, and very little about ungodly pleasures of the world. Folks like this go to church regularly. The outward expression of their worship is vigorous and enthusiastic. They may very well do an outstanding job of "witnessing" if pressed by a friend, but never would they initiate such a conversation. You see they fail to give heed to those things taught them. The words of the Hebrew writer have made no impact on their sin-encrusted heart. (Heb. 2:1).

Brothers and sisters, we need to make our "calling and election sure" by seeking the treasures of heaven and giving heed to the commands of God.
[by Boyd Williams, Lifeline, Vero Beach, Fla., Mar. 22, 1995, p. 2]

HOLDING A GRUDGE
One day a visitor leaned on the old fence around a farm while he watched an old farmer plowing with a mule. After a while, the visitor said, "I don't like to tell you how to run your business, but you could save yourself a lot of work by saying, 'Gee' and 'Haw' to that mule instead of just tugging on those lines."
The old farmer pulled a big handkerchief from his pocket and wiped his face. Then he said, "Reckon you're right, but this animal kicked me five years ago and I ain't spoke to him since."
The moral of the story seems obvious. A grudge is harder on the one who holds it than the one it is held against.
The apostle Paul said that we are to forgive any man if we have a quarrel against him. Just like Christ forgave us, we are to forgive each other (Col. 3:13).
Friend, if God and Christ can extend mercy to you for your sins, surely you can be merciful to those who offend you.
[by David Sain, Carbondale, Ill. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Apr. 16, 1995, p. 3]

BEAUTIFUL
(Socrates believed beauty is a thing that "slips in and permeates our souls." That idea lives in this simple little poem, which generates of young Americans memorized from McGuffey's Second Reader.)

Beautiful faces are they that wear
The light of a pleasant spirit there;
Beautiful hands are they that do
Deeds that are noble, good and true
Beautiful feet are they that go
Swiftly to lighten another's woe.
[from The Book of Virtues via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Apr. 16, 1995, p. 3]

GROWING CHURCHES
Sometimes we are prone to complain about certain inconveniences at church. Complaints about children running, crying or talking in worship, passing notes. Complaints about space, too little parking space, seating or someone is in our place. We complain about money, too little, not enough in the church's bank account. Consider for a moment that all of these are signs of life and growth. Rather than seeing these as reasons for complaints, they should be viewed as signs of a growing church.

Growing churches are always looking for more room to grow. Dead churches do not have a lack of space problem.
Growing churches are always changing things. Dead churches do the same things over and over, year after year.
Growing churches have noisy children running in the halls, going to class, playing with each other. Dead churches have lost all of their young people from neglect and criticism.
Growing churches struggle to remember each others' names. Dead churches do not have new names, or new faces, or new souls. Just the "chosen few."
Growing churches will often overspend their budget. Dead churches seek security in maintaining a large bank account.
Growing churches are constantly seeking new and effective ways to minister to the lost and to members. Dead churches are comfortable with what they have always done. Nothing is new, and no one is encouraged or saved.

Which church do you think the Lord is pleased with? Some of the very things that are the subject of complaints are the results of the way God is blessing us. The next time you see that little one, experience a shortage of space, see something change, thank God for the opportunities and growth.
[by Russell Cook, The Christian Light, Jackson, Tenn. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Mar. 19, 1995, p. 3]

WHEN GOD'S GOODNESS FRIGHTENS/SCARES US
Jesus, in the Gospel accounts of His life, at times does strange, unsettling things. He heals, cleanses, forgives sin. He makes it possible for people who have experienced sorrow and grief to live again with joy, freedom, and well-being. Because He unsettles so much in settled lives, Jesus at times upsets and frightens people and yes, evokes hostility.

The ones who are upset accuse Jesus at being an agent of Beelzebub, the prince of demons (Mark 3:20-30). They think that anyone who upsets things much be from Satan. Jesus defends himself and counters his opponents. He points out, as everyone can see, that he is doing good. He heals, restores, forgives, and liberates. Jesus does the very things that Satan resists.

Some people get so used to fear and guilt, loneliness and rejection, that they think life is supposed to be that way. When God's power for freedom and well-being is loosed in the world, the work of God sometimes frightens us. Take care that you do not oppose God's liberating, healing work just because it disturbs you. Identify areas where God's forgiving, freeing work might frighten you or even excite you, and then welcome the action of God. Remember the words of the hymn, "The Lord Has Been Mindful of Me." "My God is the God of the living! How excellent is His name!"

Thank you Father for being mindful of me.
[by Stanley Maiden, The Way of Life from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Mar. 19, 1995, p. 3]

I CAN'T BE AT CHURCH EVERY SUNDAY!
As we make an attempt to reach people we often hear the above statement. It is not given as a denial of God's Word, nor is it given out of a desire to get by with the least amount of commitment possible. It is an indication of interest in spiritual things, but is coupled with the expectation that obligations previously made must be met. When the above statement, or one similar to it, is made, be careful how you respond. A soul hangs in the balance.

How should we respond? My experience indicates that a correct response might be, "I understand! Just remember that I only want what is best for you. Come when you can, but let's keep studying. I believe that you want to do what is right and when you see the necessity for corrections you will make them." Now what have I said to the person? I have encouraged him/her to continue making progress. I have not impugned his intentions. My experience is that the person will continue coming and continue studying.

It would have been easy to close the book and begin looking for someone more receptive to church attendance. After all, if a person will not commit to attending services up front why should we expect them to become more committed later on. But the answer is that most folks want to be sure about what they are learning before committing their time and service. We Christians must exercise patience and sound reasoning when discipling folks. Let's do it!
[by Boyd Williams, Lifeline, Vero Beach, Fla., Feb. 22, 1995, p. 2]

WHO AM I?
Adam, God made out of dust,
But thought it best to make me first
So I was made before a man,
To answer God most holy plan.
A living being I became,
And Adam gave to me my name.
I from his presence then withdrew,
And more of Adam never knew.
I did my Maker's Law obey,
Nor ever went from it astray.
Thousands of miles I go in fear
But seldom do on earth appear.
For purpose wise which God did see,
He put a living soul in me;
A souls that form me God did claim,
And took from me this soul, and then
I was the same as when first made,
And without hands, or feet, or soul,
I travel on from pole to pole.
I labor hard by day, by night,
To fallen men I give great light.
Thousands of people, young and old
Will be my death's great light behold.
No right or wrong can I conceive,
The scripture I cannot believe.
Although my name therein is found,
They are to me an empty sound.
No fear of death doth trouble me
Real happiness I'll never see.
To heaven I shall never go,
Or even down to hell below.
Now when these lines you slowly read,
Go search the Bible with all speed;
For that my name is written there,
I do honestly to you declare.
Who am I? (the answer is one word and it appears only four times in the Bible)
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Mar. 26, 1995, p. 3]

THERE'S ALWAYS A SILVER LINING
There's always a silver lining
Somewhere in the sky,
To bring your troubled soul new hope
And lift your spirits high.
When disappointments come your way
Accept them with a smile,
For deep in your heart you know
They only last awhile.
Do not believe you walk alone
Because you never do.
Hold out your hand and you will find
That God is there with you.
[by Harold Mohn from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Apr. 9, 1995, p. 3]

I'M DOING JUST FINE
There is nothing whatever the matter with me,
I'm just as healthy as I can be.
I have neuritis in both my knees,
And when I talk, I talk with a wheeze.
My pulse is weak, and my blood is thin,
But I'm awfully well for the shape I'm in.

Arch supports I have for my feet,
Or I wouldn't be able to be on the street.
Sleep is denied me, night after night,
My memory's failing, my heart's a spin,
I'm practically living on aspirin.
But I'm awfully well for the shape I'm in.

The moral is...as the tale I unfold,
For you and me, who are growing old,
It is better to say, "I'm fine," with a grin
Than to let people know the shape you are in.
[from South Florida Ave bulletin via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Apr. 9, 1995, p. 3]

CHRISTIANS ARE FOR REAL
If a man would be a soldier,
He'd expect of course to fight,
And he couldn't be an author,
If he didn't try to write.

If a man would be a hunter,
He must be among the trees,
And he couldn't be a sailor,
If he didn't sail the seas.

So it isn't common logic,
Doesn't have the right true ring,
That a man to be a Christian,
Doesn't have to do a thing.

How strange for any person,
To think perhaps that he,
Can fail to work and worship,
And a faithful Christian be.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Apr. 9, 1995, p. 3]

WHAT ARE FRIENDS FOR?
Sue felt so good inside as she shared the knowledge of the unadvertized sale with her friends. After all, hadn't Solomon charged us to "not withhold good from those who desire it"? (Prov. 3:27).

She wanted them all to be a part of such a good deal. Tom knew just how she felt. He couldn't wait to tell Jack how fast his calves were growing on the new feed. Jack was almost like a brother to him. Sue and Jack had something else in common besides being blessed with good friends. You see, both of them were Christians and their best friends weren't.

Isn't it strange how we are so anxious to share all kinds of news except the "good news"? We will give those we love everything down to the shirt off our back until it comes to the one thing they can't do without. Blessings of birth, promotions and health are heralded from the housetops, while news of redemption is kept strangely silent.

Consider the following suggestions: (1) Select the person or persons I feel closest to. (2) Pray that God will give me the courage to talk with them. (3) Pray for the wisdom to approach them in a loving and gentle way. (4) Pray that God might help open their hearts.

Remember what Exo. 33:11 says about Moses. How can I face my friends in the judgment having withheld the good news from them.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Apr. 9, 1995, p. 4]

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY
As I consider my life and it's great expanse of blessings, I thank the Giver of "...every good and perfect gift..." for His abundance. Although not the greatest gift, one of the greatest gifts this writer has been afforded was the opportunity to be the son of a woman whose "...children arise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her."

Years ago, the United States Congress passed legislation calling for a day to remember our mothers. Since that time the second Sunday of May has been designated Mother's Day. The following is dedicated to mothers both alive, and those who live in our hearts.

THE YOUNG MOTHER
The young mother set her foot on the path of life. "Is the way long?" she asked. And her guide said, "Yes, and the way is hard. And you will be old before you reach the end of it. But the end will be better than the beginning."

But the young mother was happy, and she would not believe that anything could be better than these years. So she played with her children, and gathered flowers for them along the way, and bathed them in the clear streams; and the sun shone on them, and life was good, and the young mother cried, "Nothing will ever be lovelier than this."

Then night came, and storm, and the path was dark, and the children shook with fear and cold, and the mother drew them close and covered them with her mantle, and the children said, "Oh mother, we are not afraid for you are near, and no harm can come." and the mother said, "This is better than the brightness of day, for I have taught my children courage."

And the morning came, and there was a hill ahead and the children climbed and grew weary, and the mother was weary, but at all times she said to the children, "A little patience, and we are there." So the children climbed and when they reached the top, they said, "We could not have done it without you mother." And the mother, when she lay down that night, looked up at the stars and said, "This is a better day than the last, for my children have learned fortitude in the face of hardness. Yesterday I gave them courage. Today I have given them strength."

And the next day came strange clouds, which darkened the earth - clouds of war and hate and evil - and the children groped and stumbled, and the mother said, "Look up. Lift your eyes to the light." And the children looked and saw above the clouds the everlasting glory, and it guided them and brought them beyond the darkness. And that night the mother said, "This is the best day of all, for I have shown my children God."

And the days went on, and the weeks, and the months and the years, and the mother grew old and she was little and bent. But her children were tall and strong, and walked with courage. And when the way was hard, they helped their mother; and when the way was rough, they lifted her, for she was light as a feather; and at last they came to a hill, and beyond the hill they could see a shining road and a golden gate flung wide.

And the mother said, "I have now reached the end of my journey. And now I know that the end is better than the beginning, for my children can walk alone, and their children after them."

And the children said, "You will always walk with us, mother, even when you have gone through the gates."

And they stood and watched her as she went alone, and the gates closed after her. And they said, "We cannot see her, but she is with us still. A mother like ours is more than a memory. She is a living presence."
[from The Exhorter, Hazel, Ky. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 14, 1995, p. 3]

I AM GOING TO STAY A FATHER
At a time when being a buddy to one's son is popular, I am going to stay a father. I believe it may yet prove to have been a bit of sad psychology when dads are called "Jim, Pete, Art, Tom or Jack" by their children. When Spock, Freud, Dewey and William James have conspired to make dad a minor stockholder on the home's board of directors, when women's right, civil rights, people's rights, children's rights, and property rights have made it wrong for fathers to speak with authority, I am going to stay a father.

If a gap exists between my sons and daughters, and myself, I am going to work hard to understand. But I am also going to work hard to be understood....

When they tell it like it is, I will listen, even if I like it better like it was. If old-fashioned things as prayer, Bible study, worship and faith in God ever seem to my children to be out of it, square or whatever - I trust God's help to have faith enough to yet pray for them, and I pledge with Job, to offer up additional sacrifices for them.

With love in our home I will answer their questions about the facts of life, but at nudeness and lewdness I refuse to wink. Drinking and smoking are as out of place and unwanted in my home as profanity or the plague. And if experimentation with drugs or marijuana is ever a problem, it will be in violation of my every prayer and request. No laissez faire attitude will be accepted here - even if the weed is legalized and social "tripping" becomes as acceptable as social drinking.

I want my children to know that I make mistakes, that I am foolish, proud and often inconsistent. But I will not tolerate that as an excuse for my hypocrisy. I ask them to help me change as children should, and to expect me to help them change in the methods expected of a parent. Others may look to the under 30 crowd for the wisdom to throw away the past and to say what will remain for future generations; others may let the off-spring in the house determine the foods, the music, and the spending of the household, but I am going to stay a father.
[by Paul Harvey from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 26, 1994, p. 3]

IT SOUNDS GOOD. IT FEELS GOOD. BUT, IT'S TERRIBLY WRONG!
In October 2, 1993 issue of the Montgomery Advertiser carried an article entitled, "Poll: most expect to go to heaven".

One of the statements in this article was that, "Despite denominational differences, most Christians share an optimistic view of life beyond the grave." While everyone should believe in life after the grave as the Bible teaches, they should also read and consider what John 5:28-29 has to say.

"Two surveys (one among Lutherans and another among believers in general) find both groups overwhelmingly expect to go to heaven, and only a scant few have any worries about going to hell." Now, read Matt. 7:13-14.

"Of the 78 percent of Americans who believe there is a heaven, 94 percent think their prospects for getting there are excellent, good or fair."
"Of the 60 percent of Americans generally who think there is a hell, 77 percent see little chance of going there themselves. But, 19 percent admit they're uneasy about it."

"In the general polls of American adults, those with college education and with household incomes of more than $50,000 were the most optimistic about getting to heaven. Only 1 percent saw their chances as poor."

"Less than a single percentage of blacks saw their chances of heaven as poor, but 3 percent of whites did so."

Now wouldn't it be great if these polls accurately represented what the Bible teaches? But, they don't!

Please consider the following:
1. Rom. 1:16 teaches that the gospel is God's power unto salvation.
2. Look at II Thes. 1:7-9 and see how lost those are who die without obeying the gospel.
3. Heb. 5:8-9 teaches that Jesus saves those who obey Him.
4. Remember that Paul had a good conscience (Acts 23:1) and thought that he was right (Acts 26:9) when he was making havoc of the Lord's church.
5. Consider the commands of the gospel...To be obedient, one must hear the Word (Rom. 10:17); believe it (Mark 16:16); repent (Luke 13:3; Acts 2:38); make the good confession (Acts 8:37); be baptized in water for the remission of sins (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; I Pet. 3:20-21).

The denominations do not preach the true gospel. Many believe that one does not need to be baptized to be saved as the Bible teaches. They deny the one true church that Christ founded.

The New Testament supplies everything that we need to safely guide us into heaven (II Tim. 3:16-17; II Pet. 1:3). It must not be altered (Rev. 22:18-19). Those who obey the New Testament without addition or subtraction and remain faithful to the end will be saved eternally. Those who do not will be lost.

Jesus, knowing the hearts of men...(Matt. 7:13-14). That doesn't sound like it's in harmony with these polls, does it?

These polls reveal a sad condition in our society. People have decided that they are secure and consequently are not interested in what the New Testament teaches. Others are ignorant of what it teaches and yet others choose to be rebellious. It is sorrowful that so many people have such a false sense of security. It doesn't have to be that way!
[by O.B. Porterfield, Seibles Road church of Christ, Montgomery, Ala. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 5, 1994, p. 3]

TURN IT UPSIDE DOWN
In Acts 17:1-9, there is recorded an incident that happened in the city of Thessalonica. Paul and Silas had come to town and had "upset some folks". In fact, a mob came looking to capture them and put an end to their activities. (Acts 17:6-7).

Focus on the statement: "These who have turned the world upside down have come here too." Obviously, these people had heard of Christianity and the impact it was having on the world. Now the messengers of Christ had come to Thessalonica and were turning it upside down. What did they do to make the world go "topsy-turvy" like that? It must have been something outlandish in order to engender such a response, right? I mean nothing like that could happen today, we couldn't do that sort of thing, right? Wrong!

Look again at the passage. Paul went into the synagogue and "reasoned with them from the scriptures, explaining and demonstrating that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying 'This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ.'" What was it that they were doing? Preaching Jesus as the Christ, the saviour and king. That's it, nothing else. And it turned the world upside down.

I think the application to ourselves is clear. Surveys show that we live in a world that feels that the church and Christianity have a decreasing relevance and influence. We want and need to change that trend and reassert ourselves in the world, but we need not look far to find our answer. We must preach Christ and preach Him diligently. Sure the methods might change (we don't walk into the synagogue and just start teaching anymore), but the principle remains, if we preach Christ we will turn the world upside down.
[by Dan Giles from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 5, 1994, p. 3]

RABBIS: PREMARITAL SEX CAN BE HOLY
(the following is a newspaper article)
NEW YORK - For Jewish singles unable to wait until marriage, sex can still be a holy experience if religious moral standards are followed, according to a report developing a contemporary sexual ethic for the nation's largest branch of Judaism.

"Committed, loving relationships between mature people who strive to conduct their sexual lives according to the concepts and values described above can embody a measure of holiness, even if not the full portion available in marriage," says the report "This is my beloved, This is my friend."

Marriage is still the "appropriate place" for sexual relations, but the report released Wednesday encourages Jewish leaders to consider whether even homosexual relations can be part of God's gift of sexuality if other moral standards are obeyed. (end of article)

Have you ever read anything that is more ridiculous? No amount of "reconsidering" by anyone will change the Word of God! Sex outside of marriage is a sin...period! It cannot be a "holy experience" because it has no divine authority. It's a foolish notion that "religious moral standards" can include extramarital sex.

Consider the stupidity of the concept that "homosexual relations can be a part of God's gift of sexuality" in the light of God's abhorrence of the unnatural and deviant practice (Rom. 1).
Marriage is not only the "appropriate place" for sexual relations...it is the only appropriate place.
God says so!
[by O.B. Porterfield from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 5, 1994, p. 4]

SOME CLARIFICATION ABOUT CHURCH MEMBERSHIP
One of our television viewers has written me saying, "One thing I know, God is not going to ask us if we were members of 'such and such denomination' when we stand before Him. He is going to look to see if the image of His dear Son is dwelling in us by means of the spiritual rebirth."

Of course, he's right. But that doesn't mean that God is not going to be concerned about our being in His church, because all the saved are in His church (Acts 2:47).

One of the problems we have in our generation with church membership as it relates to salvation is our confusion of the words "church" and "denomination". "Church" appears 112 times in the King James Version of the New Testament. Therefore, it is not a bad word, but a biblical one.

Seventy-six times it appears in the singular form, the singular number (church), as in Matt. 16:18 and Acts 20:28. Christ built and purchased only one church.

Twenty-six times it is plural (churches), as in Gal. 1:2, 22, where reference is made to congregations of the Lord's people in the regions of Galatia and Judea respectively. Never in the scriptures, whether in the singular or plural form, does it refer to a "denomination," but the called, redeemed, saved people of the Lord (Acts 2:47; Acts 20:28).

"Denomination" does not appear in the New Testament at all; not even once. To be denominational is "to divide and name." Our Lord does not want us to divide into warring sects and wear different names to distinguish one group from the other. He prayed that His people would all be one (John 17:20-23). He died that we might all be reconciled to God in one body, whether Jew or Greek, American, Asian, or African, bond or free, male or female. What a grand concept - unity of all believers in Jesus in one body, church (Eph. 1:22-23; Eph. 4:1-4).

When we say Jesus built but one church (Matt. 16:18), we are not referring to any denominational group. We are simply using the word "church" the way the Bible uses it. If, when we use it that way, someone thinks we are speaking of a denomination, he is sure to be confused and very often becomes angry.

Before we can be undenominational, we must clear our minds of these denominational perceptions, and it isn't easy in a world filled with denominations. That is good reason for striving diligently not to be a denomination, but in fact the church of Jesus Christ.
[by Mack Lyon from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 29, 1994, p. 3-4]

WHAT IS REALLY IMPORTANT IN LIFE?
1. Not where you were born: Winston Churchill was born in the ladies cloakroom in the castle of Blenheim. His mother was attending a dance there when she gave premature birth to her son.
2. Not your education: Did you know that nine of our presidents did not attend college? Truman, Cleveland, Andrew Johnson, Lincoln, Filmore, Taylor, Van Buren, Jackson and Washington.
3. Not your size: President William Howard Taft weighed 350 pounds. President John Adams was only 5 feet 6 inches tall. You can achieve if heavy or short.
4. Not your looks: Did you know, for example, that President U.S. Grant's wife was "cross eyed?" She wanted to have it corrected with an operation, but he said he "liked her that way."

What really counts? What is important? If you really want to enjoy life, then check:
1. Your attitude: (Prov. 18:14). Your spirit or attitude can bless you or break you.
2. Use of your time: (Eph. 5:15-16).
3. Your belief: (Eccl. 12:13; Matt. 6:33).

Center in on the things that really count - your attitude, use of your time and your faith. If these are right, then you can overcome any other obstacles that may be in your way.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 12, 1994, p. 3]

WALKING WITH GOD
Sometimes I walk in the shadow,
Sometimes in sunlight clear.
But whether in gloom or brightness
The Lord is very near.

Sometimes I walk in the valley
Sometimes, the mountain's crest:
But whether on lowland or highland,
The Lord is manifest.

Sometimes I walk in the desert,
Sometimes in waters cold:
But whether by sands or streamlets
The Lord doth me enfold.

Sometimes I walk in green pastures,
Sometimes on barren land:
But whether in peace or danger,
The Lord holds fast my hand.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 12, 1994, p. 3]

DON'T LET YOUR OFFERING TAKE A VACATION
The vacation months are soon upon us and school will be out. Many are planning trips out of town.
Please leave your offering when you are going to be away! We have many that already do this. Let's make our cooperation in this area 100%.
We are currently engaged in some great works beside our local efforts. There are also others that we need and want to help when we are able.
Thanks for remembering to not leave town until this important business has been taken care of.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 12, 1994, p. 3]

VISITATION IS THE KEY TO GROWTH!
V - Vitalizes the work of the church
I - Increases the attendance
S - Secures home cooperation
I - Inspires regular attendance
T - Ties the home close to the church
A - Affords a soul winning opportunity
T - Typifies loving interest of Christ
I - Insures growth in grace
O - Overcomes indifference
N - Nurtures friendliness and good will.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 19, 1994, p. 3]

LADDER OF SUCCESS
100% - I did
90% - I will
80% - I can
70% - I think I can
60% - I might
50% - I think I might
40% - What is it?
30% - I wish I could
20% - I don't know how
10% - I can't do it
0% - I won't do it
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 19, 1994, p. 3]

DON'T PLAY GAMES
How much would you have to spend in a video arcade before you decided your habit had become excessive? Ten dollars? Twenty? Well, how about $80,000? That's how much Lewis Smith, a 27-year old jewelry salesman from Ottumwa, Iowa lost.

Last December, Smith traveled to Metrocenter shopping mall to conduct business with several stores there. He decided to take a break and ducked into the Gold Mine Arcade, where he placed his brief case on the floor in order to free up both hands for the joy stick. While Smith devoted himself to gobbling up electric dots, destroying menacing centipedes, and sniping at enemy spacecraft, someone walked off with the sample case, containing $80,000 worth of merchandise. Police have no suspects.

Imagine that: a man lost a fortune in jewels because his attention was distracted by playing games.

The risen Lord Jesus, in Rev. 3:11, admonishes His valiant church in Philadelphia.... Christians need to understand that the gospel is a treasure worth more than all the world. It should be guarded with a vengeance and shared with a passion, but never ignored.

Sadly, many of us become distracted with the world and its games, and carelessly toss our prize to the floor at our feet. Making money, gossiping with neighbors, watching television, and pursuing hobbies make us an easy prey for the sneak-thief, Satan. Even in the church we often focus on committees and charts, programs and parties, and forget that our purpose is to share Christ with a dying world.

What a tragedy if, when the trumpet sounds, some distracted Christian should turn from his worldly games, reach for the crown he laid at his feet just a few moments ago, and find instead only emptiness and the haunting laugh of the Enemy.
[by Douglas F. Parsons from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 19, 1994, p. 3]

THE ART OF MARRIAGE
It is never being too old to hold hands.
It is remembering to say "I love you" at least once each day.
It is never going to sleep angry.
It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives.
It is standing together facing the world.
It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the whole family.
It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways.
It is having the capacity to forgive and forget.
It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow.
It is common seach for the good and the beautiful.
It is not only marrying the right person - it is being the right partner.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 19, 1994, p. 3]

TAKING AWAY HURT
There are a lot of hurts in this world. Some have suffered tremendous hurts, others smaller. But no matter how you hurt, it hurts all the same. When family or friends hurt, the compassionate want to take the pain away.

Jesus Christ spent his short life on earth taking away hurt. Of course, his objective was to take away the ultimate hurt in us all: sin. But in so doing, he took time to heal, speak, comfort, care, and cry. God in man. God among man. God reaching man.

In our quest to be the body of Christ, identifying and adopting the qualities of his Spirit, we must become a people who are committed to taking away hurt. It may be true that there are some hurts we cannot take away, but it is equally true that most hurts can be eased. We don't have the touch of instantaneous healing in our hand, but we do have the sense of compassion and empathy that allows us to facilitate healing in our hearts.

Here are some ideas for reaching out to hurting people. We may not be able to completely take away their hurts, but we can act as turning points, in their lives, helping them to have hope.

(1) Listen. The only way for hurt to begin to heal is to be verbalized. People who are hurting need to talk about what is hurting them, and how it makes them feel.
(2) Accept. When hurt is being expressed, we do not need to judge the person for the feelings he or she has. We simply let them express, in the best way they know how, what is happening in their heart.
(3) Touch. Appropriate (non-sexual) touching, such as a hug, a hand on the shoulder, a pat on the back - are all physical ways of expressing acceptance and appreciation. It is best expressed brother to brother or sister to sister when in private settings.
(4) Pray. God can change things that we cannot. Ask God to heal the hurt to grant peace and contentment.
(5) Normalize. Do something normal, away from the focus of the hurt, for a time of relief. We can spend too much time pitying ourselves. We may just need to go back to "every day" living.
[by John Dobbs from In Flight, Central church of Christ, Pascagoula, Miss. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 3, 1994, p. 3]

Dear Abby: In a recent column, a reader complained about the amount of money he was expected to give to the church. Perhaps this piece will provide an answer to that question. I regret I don't know who the author is, but I hope you feel that it's worth sharing. Bob Whitmore, Eugene, Ore.

Dear Bob Whitmore: I do, And many thanks for sending it.
Is the Church costing too much?

Last Sunday, another golfer sank the last putt on the 18th green and received a check for $50,000 for four rounds of golf, plus an automobile for himself and one for his wife. This week, the papers reported that a certain popular singer will receive $100,000 per week for her current singing engagement. Americans spend annually more on dog food than on church contributions. It is not unusual for an individual to pay more for his country club membership than he gives to the church. Is the church costing too much?

Let me share an experience with you. On June 2, 1940, a little girl was born to us. She cost us money from the moment she was born. As she grew from babyhood to girlhood she cost even more - her dresses and shoes were more expensive, and we had to have the doctor through all those childhood diseases.

She was even more expensive during her school and teen years. She needed long dresses to go to parties. When she went to college we discovered, along with other parents, that all college expenses are not listed in the catalog. Then after graduation, she fell in love and married. She was married in a church wedding and that, too, cost a lot of money.

Then, five months after her marriage, she suddenly sickened and within a week she was dead. She hasn't cost us a penny since the day we walked away from her grave.

As long as the church is alive, she will cost money. And the more alive a church is, the more money she will cost. Only a dead church, like a dead child, is no longer expensive.

Think it over. Is the church costing too much?
[from The Ledger Sunday, June 26, 1994 p. 10C via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 3, 1994, p. 4]

WHAT IS SUNDAY NIGHT?
1. Sunday night is a part of the Lord's day.
2. It is a time that is not mine, but his, in the same sense that the Lord's day morning is his.
3. It is further time of enjoying the glorious privilege of assembling in fellowship with the family of God to worship him.
4. It is a time of proving my love and loyalty to him who died for me, in spending what some would term an extra hour with him.
5. It is a time of letting our light shine by doing more than the world and many in the church consider to be necessary.
[from Family Forum, San Antonio, Tex. via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 24, 1994, p. 3]

ARE YOU GOING?
It was Sunday morning
At the breakfast table,
And my host asked
Mrs. Host -
Meaning his wife -
If she was going to church.

And I thought that was funny -
If that's the right word.
Strange is better maybe -
Or tragic - or unfortunate.

I wouldn't see why it should be a matter for debate;
Because they were members of the church.

Your children don't ask if they are going to school today.
They know they are - if they aren't sick
Or can't make You think they are.

I was wondering why going to church isn't taken for granted,
And how many fires would get put out if only the chief got there,
And the volunteers came when they felt like it.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 24, 1994, p. 3]

INWARD HAPPINESS AND CHURCH GROWTH
God intended for Christians to be happy. He even commanded that we be happy! He knew that Christians have every reason to be happy. Three times, the Philippians Christians were commanded...(Phili. 3:1; Phili. 4:4).

Only genuine Christians can be inwardly happy. Hypocrisy prevents inward happiness. It is this inward happiness that makes a Christian attractive. It silently appeals to and draws others. It builds churches!

People who are inwardly unhappy do not invite others to church and Bible school or attempt to convert others to Christ. Instead, they complain and find fault with others. No wonder God wanted Christians to be happy! A sincere, unselfish Christian can be inwardly happy. It makes a difference in the strength and growth of a church.

Inward happiness is not something that can be pretended over a long period of time. If a Christian has inward happiness, others will know it and be influenced by them for good. Inward happiness appeals to others. It builds churches!

The tenor of the New Testament is the inward happiness of Jesus Christ. He had it because of His genuine desire to please God, and to do only that which was in the best interest of others (Matt. 22:37-39). The head of the church has drawn us to Him. Genuine inward happiness has an attraction - a magnetic power to which honest people respond.

Inward happiness comes from unselfish dedication to Jesus Christ and a conscientious effort to obey all of His commands. Truly, happy Christians will strengthen and build churches.
[by Jack Ray from Greenville Messenger, Greenville, Kentucky via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., July 24, 1994, p. 4]

THE CHURCH CUSTODIAN
Consider custodians, for members are few,
Who give them the honor and praise they are due.
They seldom are mentioned by sinner or saint
Excepting when someone makes a complaint.

The temperature was never found or maintained
At a degree about which no one ever complained;
Some folks are too warm, while other folks freeze
And manage to cough, to sniffle, or sneeze.

Some feel there's a draft that will cause them to ail,
While some say the air is too stuffy and stale.
The pews and the floor must be dusted and swept,
All articles placed where they ought to be kept.

It seems that some people will never put back
The Bible or hymnal they take from the rack.
All preachers are praised for the sermons they bring,
And churches acclaimed for the music they sing.

But scanty and rare is the praise we accord
For the person who cares for the house of the Lord.
So when we give others the praise they are due,
We all should remember custodians, too.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 28, July 17, 1994, p. 2]

WHATEVER HAPPENED TO THE CLASS OF '91?
(Prov. 6:16-17).
Twenty-five percent of the high school graduating class of 1991 is dead.
They died in 1973, the year abortion was made legal. As the remaining 75% prepared for their life after graduation and their future occupations, they might stop and reflect on the significance of being members of this class.

Vague complaints are heard from the Pentagon and corporate sources that the labor pool seems to be drying up. The number of 16-year olds is forecast to decrease over the next few years. This seems to come as a surprise to those mentioning the statistics; as if some reverse Baby Boom took place from 1973 on. No mention is made that the primary reason for the decrease in 16-year olds is that they were aborted 16 years ago.

The number of abortions in this country since 1973, 25 million, exceeds the total population of Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming combined.

Why don't we as a society discuss the loss of 10% of our population in the last 16 years. If an airplane crashes with 10 people on board it is national news. But the loss of 1.5 million students from the class of 1991 goes unmentioned, as if to do so is somehow in bad taste.
[by James W. Huston, Escondido Times Advocate via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 28, July 17, 1994, p. 3]

WHO SHOULD READ THE BIBLE
The young - to learn how to live
The old - to know how to die
The ignorant - for wisdom
The learned - for humility
The rich - for compassion
The poor - for comfort
The dreamer - for enchantment
The practical - for counsel
The weak - for strength
The strong - for direction
The haughty - for warning
The humble - for exaltation
The troubled - for peace
The weary - for rest
The sinner - for salvation
The doubting - for assurance
All Christians - for guidance
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 28, July 17, 1994, p. 3 and Sept. 22, 1991, p. 4]

TO BE EXACT
The company's employment office was checking on an applicant's list of references. "How long did this man work for you?" a former employer was asked.
"About 4 hours," was the quick reply.
"Why, he told us he'd been there a long time," the astonished caller said.
"Oh, yes," answered the ex-employer, "He's been here for two years."
Many today can say, "Yes, I've been in the church for years." But we wonder, if we could check with their employer, the God of heaven, if we would find out their exact amount of service was considerably less than they had represented.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 28, July 17, 1994, p. 3]

THE DEVIL'S BIBLE
Popular 6:9 - "Go ahead, everyone else is doing it."
Cowardly 1:10 - "The best thing to do when the church and its members are criticized is to keep silent. The critic might get angry with you if you try to defend the church."
Indifference 3:4 - "I'm tired after working all day and cannot attend the service."
Excuses 1:1 - "I'm afraid to discuss the Bible with others lest I offend them. Anyway, they won't listen."
Foolishness 19:7 - "I'll try anything once."
Deceit 8:15 - "It makes no difference what one believes as long as he is sincere."
Pride 4:7 - "If someone offends you and hurt feelings result, let him come and ask your forgiveness; after all, it was his fault."
Apostasy 2:5 - "What difference does it make whether we follow the New Testament order or not?"
Hypocrisy 6:5 - "When we go home from college on weekends, we always go to church so the home folk will think we are faithful while away at school."
II Opinion 2:4 - "One church is as good as another, therefore attend the church of your choice."
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Nov. 14, 1993 and vol. 63, no. 28, July 17, 1994, p. 4]

A TRUE CONFESSION
I am a gambler! Oh, not the kind that frequents places behind closed doors in some night club. I'm not that kind of gambler. Such gambling as this is "peanuts" to the gambling that I do. You see, I gamble with my soul as the stake. I am betting that I can live a life of "do-nothing indifference, a life of neglect of those things of God," and still be saved.

I'm gambling with the souls of my children as stakes. I am betting their souls that I can let them miss Bible classes, worship services, and mid-week meetings and that I can get sufficient knowledge without attending study classes, and that I can remain indifferent to the teachings of Christ on liberal giving, and yet Christ will bless me. I am betting that I can ignore the "lost" about me, that I can "wink" at sin, and still drift into heaven.

Yes, I am a gambler - the most reckless type. I am gambling against impossible odds with my soul and the souls of my children at stake; for, you see, I am a lukewarm Christian.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 33, Aug. 21, 1994, p. 3]

CHRISTIAN CAMPING
I believe in Christian camping! The experience is far more than just a fun week in a beautiful setting. It can also help lead young people to Christ and mature those who are already Christians. Consider these 10 reasons why Christian camping is so beneficial:
1. Because of the complete Christian atmosphere - no TV, no radio, no magazines, or no undesirable friends.
2. Because kids can learn that a good time and a clean time do go together.
3. Because they learn that Christianity may be practiced away from buildings, pews, and pulpits.
4. Because the atmosphere is specifically designed to make classes and devotionals effective for young people.
5. Because teachers and counselors can concentrate totally on the unique issues and spiritual needs of our youth all day long for a week.
6. Because young people learn to take personal responsibility to make their classes and worship services a meaningful experience.
7. Because they have an entire, uninterrupted week to concentrate on their personal relationship with the Lord.
8. Because they learn "comradeship" - that is, to love, respect, and cooperate with each other.
9. Because they learn to be "soul conscious" - aware of the spiritual condition of those around them.
10. Because the camp experience lives on in their hearts even after they return home and influences their lives forever.

Convince them to go; then send them.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 33, Aug. 21, 1994, p. 4]

REMEMBERING THOSE WHO ARE SHUT-IN
We are told to help bear one another's burdens (Gal. 6:2). In Phili. 2:4, we are instructed to "look out for the things of others." Pure religion is defined by James as...(James 1:27). Paul tells us that when opportunity comes, we should...(Gal. 6:2). Then, there is Matt. 7:12, which we have called the Golden Rule. It is simply saying that we ought to treat others as we want to be treated.

In every congregation we find some members who, due to age and sickness, are no longer able to get out as they once did. They are confined at home with the family or else in a nursing home. Some are widows and widowers and all are of the household of faith. They are burdened in many ways. They have the burden of loneliness. Some burden themselves with the thoughts that they are burdens to their families and this is a great weight upon them. Every member of the church should respond to these people.

We can respond with a card if the person is able to read. A phone call will help. From time to time a visit should be made. A little gift often helps to lift their spirits with just a word to let them know that they are not forgotten. Little things mean a great deal to those who are no longer as active as they once were.

If we do not die young, we will all get old sometime. Some of us will be in nursing homes and confined within the homes of our families. We need to be reaching out to those who are shut-in that we might set the example for others to follow when we reach that point in life. Those who are young and able to go should treat those who are not as we would want to be treated in that day.

Let us not forget the shut-in.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 34, Aug. 28, 1994, p. 3]

WHAT HAVE WE DONE TODAY?
We shall do much in the years to come,
But what have we done today?
We shall give our gold in a princely sum,
But what did we give today?

We shall lift the heart and shall dry the tear,
We shall plant a hope in the place of fear,
We shall speak the words of love and cheer;
But what did we speak today?

We shall reap such joys in the by and by,
But what have we sown today?
We shall build us mansions up in the sky,
But what have we built today?

Oh, how sweet it is in fond dreams to bask,
But right here and now we must do our task.
Yes, this is the thing our souls must ask,
Just what have we done today?
[by Nixon Waterman from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 34, Aug. 28, 1994, p. 3]

DADDY HAD A LITTLE BOY
Daddy had a little boy,
His soul was white as snow.
He never went to Bible class
'Cause Daddy wouldn't go.

He never heard the stories of Jesus
That thrill the childish mind;
While other children went to class,
This child was left behind.

As as he grew from babe to youth,
Dad saw to his dismay
A soul that once was snowy white
Become a dingy gray.

Realizing his son was lost,
Dad tried to win him back,
But now the soul that once was white
Had turned an ugly black.

Dad even started back to church,
And Bible study too,
He begged the preacher, "Isn't there
A thing that you can do?"

The preacher tried, and failed, and said,
"We're just too far behind.
I tried to tell you years ago,
But you would pay no mind."

And so, another soul is lost,
That once was white as snow;
Bible study would have helped -
But Daddy wouldn't go.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 34, Aug. 28, 1994, p. 3]

BOOMER CHURCH
According to the April 15, 1993 issue of Time magazine the church will never be the same. Why? The baby boomers, the generation that forgot God, is going back to church. But it's not going to be business as usual. These returnees are "traveling from church to church or faith to faith, sampling creeds, shopping for a custom-made God."

To attract the boomers, many churches are becoming "customer oriented." For example, one church had songs one Sunday morning ranging from "Oh, What A Beautiful Morning" to "Danny Boy". The meeting climaxed in hugging as the preacher raised his arms and boomed, "Hey, God, make my day! Go for it!"

I meet more and more people who want religion shaped according to their tastes. They insist on approval and acceptance without law or sacrifice. They want a God who changes with the times, who always like what they do.

Such a God exists only in their wistful imagination. The God who is really there wants to shape us in His image.
(Mark 8:34-38).
His standards haven't changed to fit our "enlightened" age. Don't come to Jesus for approval. Come for renewal.
[by Randy Daw, Greenville, Tex. from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 34, Aug. 28, 1994, p. 4]

WHERE ARE THE OTHERS?
The Cause of Absenteeism. We are all familiar with the cleansing of the ten lepers. It is often used to teach the lesson of gratitude, but let us not overlook the lesson that it teaches on the cause of absenteeism. It was time for thanksgiving and nine were absent. Why were they absent? There was a defect in their hearts. If their hearts had been all they should have been, they would have returned with the one to give thanks. They had as much reason to return and give thanks as the one did. Let us make some present-day applications.

Bible study. It's ten o'clock Sunday morning. A number of those who have been blessed by the Lord return to the assembly to study the Bible. But as I look at the record for attendance, I see on the board a number less than the membership. I ask the question, "Where are all the others?" Were not all of them cleansed by the blood? Why did only this small number return to give glory to God? Did not the failure of the nine lepers to return to give thanks to Christ show that something was wrong with their hearts? When Christians do not show up for Bible study on Sunday morning, can anyone doubt that they have defective hearts? Is there not something wrong with one's heart who is not interested in studying the Bible? Where are those who do not return for Bible study on Sunday morning? Are they sleeping late? Are they too lazy to come? Do they not have something wrong with one's heart that will sleep too late to get to Bible study? Is there not something wrong when one claims to be a Christian and is just too lazy to come to Bible study?

Sunday night. The time is Sunday night. Some have returned to worship God. But the number has decreased considerably. Many that were here on Sunday morning have not returned to worship God. I ask, "Where are the others?" The building was nearly full this morning, but now half of the seats are empty. Where are all the others? Someone may answer, "They are not here because they could not find in the Bible a command to return on Sunday night." Did Christ command the lepers to return? No. What the nine needed was not a command, but an enlarged heart. The "others" who are not there on Sunday night do not need a command, they need to get their hearts corrected. Their hearts are too full of self and ease. They need more love for God, for the lost, and less love for self. The one leper that returned to give thanks to Christ was proof of what the other nine should have done. Those who return to worship God on Sunday night are proof of what others ought to do. Was not the one leper the best of the ten? If he needed to return to give thanks, then the nine needed to even more. Is it not likewise true that those most faithful return on Sunday night? If the most faithful need to return on Sunday night, then is this not proof that the others need to return even more?

Wednesday night. The time is Wednesday night. Those who have returned to study the Bible are still fewer in number. I ask, "Where are all the others?" The answer is: "Some are watching television; some are resting as they worked hard all day." Is there nothing wrong with one's heart who sits at home in an easy chair while Christians meet to feed on the "bread of life"? You would not try to excuse the nine for their absenteeism. Then why try to excuse yourself if you are numbered among the others that do not return?

Gospel meeting. Preparations have been made for the meeting. Sunday comes and the house is full. Monday night arrives and the attendance drops. Where are the nine? Should not the gratitude of Christians increase the attendance on Monday night in their being present and bringing friends that might not have come on Sunday? Just where are the others?

It is Friday night and there is an even greater drop in attendance. Where are the nine? This is football night. Surely one's heart is defective if football means more to him than the salvation of souls. To which group do you belong - the other or the nine?
[by Franklin Camp from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 35, Sept. 4, 1994, p. 3]

THE USE OF THE CHURCH BUILDING
The apostolic church enjoyed common meals together, called "love feasts" (I Pet. 2:13; Jude 12). Historians indicate that these meals took place immediately before or after worship and at the place of worship (as with our fellowship meals). With the advance of apostasy following the apostolic period, the concept of sacredness of the church building evolved. By A.D. 397 this idea was made "church law" as the Council of Laodicea forbade any to eat or spread tables "in the house of God" (i.e. the church building). Those today who oppose eating in the church building are not imitating the apostolic church, but the apostate church!

Those who hold such a view commit at least two faults: (1) They view the building rather than the people as the church; (2) they make a law where God has not made one. The first of these may be due to ignorance of what the church really is. The second often arises from a brazen attempt to usurp the dominion of the Lord. Whether or not by intent, such folk are governed by the traditions of men rather than the Word of God, which the Lord clearly condemned (Matt. 15:16-19).

God does not live in any kind of building, including a church building...(Acts 7:48; Acts 17:24). To eat food in a church building does not desecrate it; it is not God's temple to begin with. We, as God's people, are the temple, the dwelling place of God (I Cor. 3:16-17; I Cor. 6:19-20). To misuse the body and its abilities is to desecrate God's temple (Luke 10:27; Rom. 12:1-3).

Does not Paul's order that if one is hungry he should "eat at home" (I Cor. 11:22-34) forbid eating in the church building? If so, it would mean that Priscilla and Aquila (Rom. 16:3-5) and others in whose homes the church met would have been both commanded and forbidden to eat in their homes! Further, Paul included drinking as well as eating (I Cor. 11:22). Strangely, those who object to eating in the building never object to a water fountain. Yet, it is clear that they stand or fall together.

As honest consideration of the context will reveal that Paul is not addressing the right or wrong use of the Lord's building, but of the Lord's Supper. He directed his rebuke at the practice of making the Lord's Supper into a gluttonous physical meal, which is what we would have to do to duplicate the abuse Paul addressed.
[by Dub McClish from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 35, Sept. 4, 1994, p. 4]

GRANDCHILDREN
(Prov. 17:6).
A grandmother once said, "If I knew how much fun and enjoyment grandchildren would be, I would have had them first." Another has said, "The two greatest joys in my life is to see the headlights on my children's car coming for a visit and to see the taillights on my children's car as they leave to go home."
We love our grandchildren! They are so very precious. Granted, we love our children but the grandchildren span a totally new generation. They will live into a new and exciting world. One where those of us who are grandparents will not trod. They will represent us. They will carry our seed. We have done the planting but the harvest is still to come. What kind of harvest will it be? Have we planted well?
The wise man says...(Prov. 13:22). What have we left them? What will our children leave their children? Let me suggest some things that hopefully we have left them and they in turn will leave their children:
A strong love. May our children have seen a strong and lasting love between their mother and father. May they have seen a strong and caring love from mother and father to them. May they have a strong and continuing love for the Lord and His people.
A strong back. May our children and their children know how to work. May the husbands rise to their place of leadership in the home. May the wives be proud to be "keepers of the home" and "workers at the gate." May their home be built on the principle of hard work, fair play and reverence for God.
A strong faith. May our children and their children be firmly rooted in New Testament faith. May they search the word and use it as their only guide. May God come first in their home and in their work and in their play. May they never bow to Baal.
Hopefully, in the year 2093 my great grandchildren will be harvesting the crops we have planted. My prayer is that we have planted well and that the harvest will be one of strong love, a strong back, and strong faith.
[by Billy Joe Thrasher from Christianburg, Va. bulletin via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., vol. 63, no. 1, Jan. 2, 1994, p. 3]

MOSLEM CHAPLAIN
Last Friday (12/3/93) the first Moslem chaplain was appointed at the Pentagon for the U.S. military. He will work with the approximately 25,000 Moslems serving in the military. Islam is not only the fastest growing religion in the world, but also in the United States. Adherents of Islam are properly known as Moslems or Muslims, not Mohannedans. Islam is making great inroads primarily among black Americans. There are Islamic centers in Nashville, Chattanooga, and almost every major city in the U.S. Our guarantee of freedom of religion makes America a ripe mission field for Islam.

Bro. L.E. Cranford of Nashville reports approximately 5 million Moslems in the U.S. What does this mean to me? The same it should mean to all God's people - we must get serious about the gospel. Serious about reaching people with the truth - both in this country and abroad. Islam originated with Muhammed and had its beginning in 622 A.D. Yet six hundred years earlier Jesus said...(John 14:6). And He is the only way! Not Islam, not Buddhism, Hinduism, or Denominationalism. We need to be informed about this religion in order to help people know and follow the truth.
[by Ken Willis, Morrison, Tenn. from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Dec. 19, 1993, p. 3]

WHY CHRISTIANS GIVE
I have been asked occasionally why I do not preach tithing. On one occasion I responded by saying, "I cannot afford to preach tithing. It would cut the contribution too much." Many of our best givers where I then preached gave far more than ten percent.

Usually, of course, I point out that the New Testament does not bind ten percent as the standard of giving. One could make a better case for one hundred percent. As Mac Layton says: "The Lord has set us free from the law of the tithe so we can learn to be liberal."

Of course, not all Christians give as they should, but the faithful and mature Christians I know are often amazingly generous and sacrificial. Why? Why do they give so liberally?

They know God blesses the generous giver. They have His promise. (Luke 6:38; Acts 20:35; Prov. 11:25; II Cor. 9:7).

They want to participate in doing good. Giving is no substitute for doing what we should do personally, but giving is a way of doing many things we could not otherwise do. When we give to a work, we become a partaker, a participant in that work (II John 11). When we support faithful teachers we "do well" and become "fellow-helpers to the truth" (III John 6-8).

They know they have been blessed by the giving of others. Someone supported the means by which they were taught the gospel. Someone gave to build the building in which they worship. God blesses all of us so bountifully that we cannot give what is ours; we can only give back what has been given us (James 1:17). Why do we have that we did not receive? (John 19:11).

They want to be like God. (John 3:16). Paul's appeal to the Corinthians to give is based on the Lord's gifts to them...(II Cor. 8:9). God is a lover and a giver, and we become more like him when we give because we love.

Christians have good reasons to be generous, don't we?
[by Cecil May, Jr. from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Dec. 26, 1993, p. 3]

PERCENTAGE OF U.S. HOUSEHOLDS HEADED BY MARRIED COUPLES DECLINING
1960 = 75%
1980 = 60%
2000 = 53%
[from Felicity Barringer, "Changes in U.S. Household: Single Parent s Among Solitude", New York Times, June 7, 1991, part A. page 1, quoted in "Racing Toward 2001" by Russell Chandler via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Dec. 26, 1993, p. 3]

SOME REASONS WHY I DON'T WASH!!!
We've all heard the thread-bare excuses people give for not attending church services. Listen to these excuses for not washing:
1. My parents always made me wash as a child.
2. People who wash are hypocrites; they think they're cleaner than other people.
3. There are so many different kinds of soap, I could never decide which is right.
4. I used to wash, but it got so boring I stopped.
5. I still wash on special occasions - like Christmas and Easter.
6. None of my friends I run around with wash!!!
7. I'm still young! When I get older and need it more, I might start washing.
8. People who make soap are only interested in your money.
9. I'm so busy I just can't find the time to wash.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Dec. 26, 1993, p. 4]

TAKE INVENTORY
You won't find a Wal-Mart, Kroger, Target, etc., that does not take inventory. Even the business you work for must take inventory. Inventory is the best way to see where you've come from, how far you've come, and what areas changes need to be made in for future growth and success.

Each person on earth has 168 hours per week to use. One problem with time is that it slips so easily; for this reason, it is a good idea to sit down with pencil and paper and see just how we are spending the most valuable commodity we have on this earth.

An example is given and you are encouraged to take inventory.
Hours
56 Sleep
4 Church Services (Sun. Study, AM, PM Worship & Wed.)
3 1/2 Getting ready for and driving to church building
40 Work (or school and homework)
10 Getting ready for work or school & travel to & from
5 1/2 Meals when not at work or school
14 Household chores
2 Doing work around building and for the church
17 1/2 Watching news and television programs
4 1/2 Exercise
5 Bible study
8___ Hobbies & Recreation
168 (This is example only. Work out your own (Phili. 2:12)
No wonder Paul wrote...(Eph. 5:16). How are you spending your most valuable commodity? Are there areas in which you need to change for your future growth and success?
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Dec. 12, 1993, p. 3]

A VISION FROM WASHINGTON
I had a vision of Sodom and Gomorrah recently. Those two cities resurrected and settled in one place - Washington, D.C. I saw it on TV.

I saw thousands of homosexuals in front of the White House, kissing, fondling, suggesting sex acts; men dressed as women, women dressed as men, all brashly declaring themselves to be free and angry with anyone who would suppress their freedom to do as they please. It was sickening.

I also heard politicians pandering to this vocal assembly. The president, vice president, some congressmen, and some judges offered encouragement to the rabble. Promises of legislative protection were made. The homosexuals promised to "act up" until their demands were met.

Then I read Isa. 3:9.

The Washington parade was an intentional affront to decency. Politicians and media pandered to these degenerates. But rest assured, the God who destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah will punish all who practice the sins of those infamous cities. Isaiah said in Isa. 3:10-12.... (Rom. 1:24-28, 32; I Cor. 6:9-10).
[by Ricky Cunningham from Moody Messenger via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Jan. 16, 1994, p. 3 and Mar. 6, 1994, p. 3]

ATTRIBUTES OF CHRISTIAN WOMANHOOD
I Tim. 2:9-15 contains four attributes of a Christian woman.
* Her greatest beauty is to be found in modesty (I Tim. 2:9-10).
* Her greatest eloquence is to be found in quietness (I Tim. 2:11-12).
* Her greatest power is to be found in submission (I Tim. 2:13-14).
* Her greatest glory is to be found in motherhood (I Tim. 2:15).

Some in our contemporary culture see such attributes as demeaning to women. They don't get it. God gave these attributes to His finest and final creation.
Modesty is not a sign of ugliness. Just the opposite. A woman who possesses the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit radiates a beauty far above that of jewels and clothes. Her attractiveness is "inside out".
Quietness is not a sign of ignorance. Just the opposite. Holding your tongue, and being sure of what you speak, where you speak, when you speak, and how you speak is the greatest wisdom.
Submission is not a sign of weakness. Just the opposite. It was by submission to the will of God that Jesus was highly exalted. He did not bear the cross out of fear and duty, but because he chose to. The greatest power is found in conquering your own ego by submission.
Motherhood is not a sign of inability. Just the opposite. It is the highest position of honor and the most noble calling of service. Far above the titles of "Queen," "Princess," "Your Honor," "Madam President," and "Doctor" is the voice of a child saying "Mommie."
To change from such a ideal is degradation. Why would a butterfly ever want to be a caterpillar?
[by Jimmy Jividen from Camelback Christian Chronicle via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Jan. 16, 1994, p. 3]

FEEL LEFT OUT?
When it is announced at the assembly that someone is sick, do you:
Send them a card, or offer to help?
Organize help for them if necessary?
Visit them at the hospital or at home?
Get irritated with announcements about folks you don't know?

When a workday is planned, do you:
Arrange your plans so that you can be there?
Look for ways you can contribute to the work needed?
Look for ways to improve the building (not only on the work day)?
Always manage to be "too busy" because it is your "day off"?

When new souls are added or new folks place membership with the congregation, do you:
Introduce yourself and welcome them?
Visit and encourage them?
Help supply any physical or spiritual need?
Ignore them and hurry away as soon as possible?
Head out the door before the final "Amen"?

When you think there isn't enough social activity going on in the church, do you:
Invite groups of Christians into your home for fellowship and periods of Bible study?
Plan and carry out recreational activities for adults and children?
Offer to supply transportation for those who are unable to get to activities, worship or the grocery store?
Sit back and grumble about what they aren't doing?

When no one seems to be friendly, do you:
Become a friend to someone in need?
Make it your place to greet visitors?
Invite people who are weak into your home?

When Bible classes are provided, do you:
Attend faithfully and encourage others to do so?
Prepare your lesson?
Contribute to the class discussion with comments or by asking questions?
Sit with your mouth shut waiting for the class to become more interesting than it was the last time?

When there is a special program, do you:
Help advertise the meeting?
Invite others to come?
Invite the guest speaker into your home for a meal or Bible study?
Support the effort with your attendance or ignore the whole thing?

When people are absent from the assembly do you:
Give them a call to find out why?
Exhort and encourage them?
Let them know that you missed them and offer to help?
Sit back and wonder why the Elders aren't doing their job?

Now from just which of the above activities do you feel that you have been excluded?
[from Booth Street, Safty Harbor, Fla. via The Chapel Hill Courier, vol. 5, no. 21, May 29, 1986, p. 3 and North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Feb. 28, 1993, p. 4 and Nov. 27, 1994, p. 4]

A BETTER YEAR FOR THIS CONGREGATION
You can help this congregation enjoy its best year ever! Here are some suggestions.
1. Attend the Bible class of your age regularly. Your learning process, the enthusiasm of the class, the growth of the congregation all depend upon your regular attendance.
2. See that your children are in their proper class regularly. Regularity is vital for them too, and they need to be in the proper age group to avoid repetition of study materials next year.
3. Take into consideration the activities of the church when planning necessary trips, vacations, etc. Plan to be here for our Vacation Bible School and fall meeting especially.
4. Give generously to enable the congregation to meet its obligations and to do additional work. God has demanded first place in man's use of his possessions in every age. Put the Lord's church at the top of your family budget. You will find happiness in giving, and you will be "laying up treasures in Heaven."
5. Talk to your friends about the church. Supply them with all the information they may need. Ask them to enroll in our correspondence courses.
6. Participate in our personal work program regularly. There are visits you can make! Perhaps you should begin by visiting Christians who are ill or fellow members of the congregation whom you do not know. But, do begin! Make at least one visit each week in the interest of the church.
7. Use your membership directory to grow closer to your brethren. Choose one person each week whom you do not know so well and look for him at the service. Introduce yourself - he may not know you either!
8. Be a pusher! Enthusiasm begets enthusiasm! Do not assume the role of a constant critic who can only work for his own ideas; rather, lend your influence to every good work planned by our overseers. Don't decide that the good has all been done, but realize that our work has just begun.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Jan. 9, 1994, p. 3]

NO TIME
I knelt to pray but not for long,
I had too much to do.
Must hurry off and get to work
For bills would soon be due.
And so I said a hurried prayer,
And jumped up off my knees.
My Christian duty now was done
My soul could be at ease.
All through the day I had no time
To speak a word of cheer.
No time to speak of Christ to friends,
"They'll laugh at me," I feared.
No time, no time, too much to do
That was my constant cry.
No time to think of others,
At last, my time to die.
And when before the Lord I came,
I stood with downcast eyes.
Within His hand he held a book,
It was the Book of Life.
God looked into the Book and said,
"Your name I cannot find.
I once was going to write it down
But never found the time."
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Jan. 9, 1994, p. 3]

OPPORTUNITY
God gives the milk, but not the pail.
God gives the wood, but not the nail.
God gives the seed, but not the spade.
God gives the wheat, but not the blade.
God gives the fish, but not the hook.
God gives the food, but not the cook.
God gives the horse, but not the cart.
God gives the head, the heart, the hands
And the rest is up to me.
[from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Jan. 9, 1994, p. 3]

WHEN LIFE IS CRUEL
Life has a way of forcing us to our knees (Job 5:7; Job 14:1). But can you think of a better time to pray? When sorrow and disappointment come, isn't it easier to share our thoughts with God and deposit our future into His hands?
(Phili. 4:6-7).
(1) When life is cruel, the above passage teaches us that God is ready to help us. Are we not told to cast...(I Pet. 5:7). Even so, we are to worry about nothing and pray about everything. God will not forsake us (Heb. 15:5-6)! Therefore, "be not dismayed whatever betide, God will take care of you!"
(2) When life is cruel, the above passage teaches us to be grateful. Our supplications and requests are to be seasoned with thanksgiving. A Spanish proverb says, "When you drink from the stream, remember the spring." As Christians, we have so much to be thankful for (Eph. 1:3). To reflect on our blessings instead of our burdens, can help ease the pain we experience. "When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed, when you are discouraged thinking all is lost, count your many blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord has done."
(3) When life is cruel, the above passage teaches us how to smile amidst our sorrows. If we will but entrust our lives to God, the peace which comes from this trust will boycott fear from our hearts and thoughts. Remember the words of Jesus...(Matt. 6:25-30)!

Have you ever felt like a Psalmist...(Psa. 42:2, 5)?
Life can be cruel...but God really cares and therefore, we can face every
[by Dan Winkler from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Jan. 9, 1994, p. 4]

SHALL I MAKE MY CHILD GO TO SUNDAY SCHOOL AND CHURCH?
"Yes" replies J. Edgar Hoover, Director of the FBI.
"How would you answer Junior if he'd announced on Monday morning that he wasn't going to school any more? What do you say when he says, 'I'm not going to take a bath'? You know Junior goes to school, and Junior takes a bath. Why all this timidity then, in the realm of his spiritual guidance and growth? What shall we say when Junior says he doesn't want to go to Sunday School and church? That's easy to answer. Be consistent. Tell him, 'Junior, in our house we all go to church and Sunday School, and that includes you'.
"The parents of America can strike a blow against the forces of juvenile delinquency if they will take their children to Sunday School and church regularly."

WE HEAR EXCUSES OFFERED FOR LACK OF ATTENDANCE IN BIBLE SCHOOL
1. It is the only morning we have in the week to sleep late.
2. The time of the Bible school is too early, or too late.
3. I am not allowed to express myself.
4. I don't get anything out of it.
It may be that this last excuse has some validity to it. It has been said and truly so, "Maybe you are not bringing anything to get it in." The best excuse any of us can offer will not be acceptable to the Lord.

Don't have a wreck
Don't get the flu
Don't plan a trip
To visit Aunt Sue.

If you must have a headache
Wait until Monday!
We want you
In Bible school this Sunday!

THE BIBLE
Many years ago I entered the wonderful temple of God's revelation. I strolled through the portico of Genesis and walked down the Old Testament Art Gallery where the pictures of Adam, Noah, Abraham, Joshua, Samuel, David, and Daniel hung on the wall.

As I entered the Music Room the Spirit swept the keyboard of infinity which brought forth the wall of the weeping Jeremiah, and the grand, impassioned strains of Isaiah.
And it seemed that every reed and harp in God's great organ of nature responded to the tuneful touch of David the sweet singer of Israel.

I next found my way into the Chapel of Ecclesiastes where the voice of the preacher was heard, and passed into the Conservatory of Sharon where the Lily of the Valley's sweet scented spices filled and perfumed my life.

I lingered awhile in the Business Office of the Proverbs.

In the Observatory Room of the Prophets I saw many telescopes of various sizes; some pointing to far off events, but all concentrated upon the Bright and Morning Star which was soon to rise over the moonlit hills of Judea for our salvation.

I was conducted into the Audience Room of the King of Kings and caught a vision from the standpoint of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. On entering the Acts of Apostles I saw the Holy Spirit doing his office work in the formation of the infant church.

From the Correspondence Room where sat Paul, Peter, James, and Jude penning their epistles, I stepped into the Throne Room of Revelation, where all towered into glittering peaks, I was enraptured by the vision!

High and lifted up, mighty and terrible and surrounded by myriads of angels and white robed saints sat the King. The angel chorus which thundered and echoes through the limitless expanse of the universe was: Blessing and honor and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honor and power, and might, be unto our God forever and forever. And I cried: All hail the power of Jesus' name, Let angels prostrate fall; Bring forth the royal diadem And crown Him Lord of all!

ENCOURAGEMENT FROM HELL
Dear Ura Weakun:

I'm writing you to congratulate you and your friends for your lack of Bible study. That's one thing that makes me appreciate you so much. Sure, you keep some Bibles around the house, but you never read them, do you? A Bible is all right as long as you don't read it. Those pretty black covers and gold-edged pages kinda give a little dignity to a room.

I don't know when I've ever been in a better mood. It seems that people haven't ever known as little about the Bible as they do now. They can't fool me with their talk about how many Bibles are sold each year. I'm not worried about how many are sold, but how many are read. If people knew as little about how to handle fire as they do about how to handle the Bible, every town in the world would burn down tonight.

I just wanted to write so that you would not pay any attention to all this talk about studying the Bible. Elders, preachers, and teachers are the main ones that put out all that "study" talk.

The things that really give me a boost these days is knowing that even the church members don't even know enough to tell a non-member what to do to be saved.

Ura, if you should lose control of yourself some night and start to pick up the Bible and read, remember to turn on the TV set instead. If there aren't any good TV shows on, then try the newspaper or the latest magazine. Should you feel that you just have to do some Bible reading, do as little as you can, and make sure that you don't read long in the same place. Don't try to get the meaning of the verses. Just scan the passage and maybe the urge to read will leave.

In closing, remember this, Ura, "It pays to be ignorant." The boss is overjoyed at your stupidity on Biblical subjects.

I remain yours for a sinful world and pledged for the promotion of a lack of Bible knowledge.

Ima Drawback, Satan's Chief of Staff
Department of Ignorance,
Headquarters Torment
[from North Avenue Messenger]

THE THIEF ON THE CROSS
(Luke 23:43).
The "thief on the cross" is often used as an example to prove that one does not have to be baptized in order to be saved. After we examine this case in light of the scripture, we can readily see that the incident involving the "thief on the cross" was not recorded in order to minimize baptism.

Jesus the Testator and Mediator

(Heb. 9:16-17). A "testator" is "the (one) making a testament (or covenant)," and before the testament can be of force, the testator must die. Jesus is the testator of the same covenant of which He is the "mediator". (Heb. 9:15). A "mediator" is the "one who acts as a guarantee so as to secure something which otherwise would not be obtained. Christ is the surety of the 'better covenant, the new covenant' guaranteeing its terms for His people." Jesus, the Testator, has made the new covenant, and He being the Mediator, guarantees its terms of redemption, having sealed it with His death.

Before and After the Death of Jesus

After the death of Christ, His testament has become legally bound to us, and no one can change the terms on which He promises to save all mankind. Prior to His death, He could say to the man sick with palsy...(Luke 5:20), and to the thief...(Luke 23:43). When Jesus spoke these words, He spoke them on the other side of the cross, before His death. Prior to the death of Christ, His will was not in force, and He could so speak as He saw fitting. But, after He died, He sealed His last will and testament with His death, making it impossible for us to make any changes in regard to His terms of salvation. Since His death, and on this side of the cross, Christ cannot speak to us today as He spoke to the thief on the other side of the cross. He can only speak by way of His will, and every one has been given the same testament, revealing the same plan of salvation for every one, regardless of nationality or sex. By receiving His testament and abiding by the conditions He has stipulated therein, we have His guarantee of redemption.

In every case of conversion, after the death of Christ and under the new covenant, each convert had to be baptized. It is a perversion of the gospel to ignore these eight examples set forth in Acts requiring baptism on this side of the cross and under the new covenant, and hold up the "thief on the cross", who lived and died on the other side of the cross, under the old covenant, so as to refute baptism. We are not saved as was the thief, but as those from Pentecost on, under the New Covenant, of which baptism is a requisite.
[by William B. Kughn from The Chapel Hill Courier, vol. 7, no. 23, June 23, 1988, p. 2]

HOW MANY APPLES IN A SEED?
There is an old proverb that says, "Any fool can count the seeds in an apple, but only God can count the apples in a seed." This could be applied to Christians, also. Any one of us can count the Christians attending any particular congregation, but how many of us can accurately assess the potential of the Christians in that congregation?

Have you ever stopped to think what the true potential of the church is in your congregation? Have you ever stopped to think that the potential of the church depends on what you are willing to "let" God do with your life? It does depend to some extent upon what the elders and the preacher do, but it depends basically upon what the individual members do with their lives.

Have you ever stopped to think what your true potential is; what you can do to increase the church, not on your own, but with God's help? Whatever goals are set by the elders or the preacher, they can never be realized unless you work toward those goals with them.

The worst thing any of us can do is to underestimate our own worth and abilities. We become as the one-talent man and hide what we have, and prevent the increase that could naturally occur. The important thing is: what goals have you set for yourself? You may not agree with goals others set for you, but the goal you set for yourself is the one you will have to work toward achieving.

May each member of each congregation truly evaluate his or her potential. God can do more with us than we could ever imagine. He can count the "apples in your seed"!
[from The Chapel Hill Courier, vol. 7, no. 23, June 23, 1988, p. 2-3]

WHAT IF...?!
What if the church at Chapel Hill met every day of the week, instead of only two days a week? What if the sermon lasted four or five hours on Sunday, instead of thirty or forty minutes? What if your food was taken away for an entire day the first time you forsook the assembly? What if you were placed in stocks for six months the second time you forsook the assembly? What if you were executed for the third offense of forsaking the assembly?

Do such suggestions offend us? Well, they might some of us, especially those who feel that pure religion is something they can live just as well without as with, anyhow.

I didn't just make these things up. While visiting the site of Jamestown, Virginia, a few years ago, I learned that these very things were practiced by the Jamestown colonists who arrived from England in 1607. They were Anglicans, or members of the Church of England. They brought their religion with them, and practiced it zealously. Label it severe, or even legalistic; you cannot deny they took their religion seriously. There is one above-ground structure from the early period of Jamestown that still stands - the tower of the first brick church building they built in about 1639. There is no doubt that religion was the center of thought and activity in old Jamestown.

Another practice that seems strange to me was the burial of the dead under the floor of the church building where they sat during the assembly. Just think about being buried where you usually are when the church assembles on Sunday. Some would be buried beneath their house, right under the bed! Others would be put away under the recliner in the den. Some would be buried "at sea" in the lake where they usually fish. Still others would be laid away beneath the asphalt of some highway on which they make their pilgrimage every weekend to visit relatives.

While some would judge these practices odd, if not downright fanatical, we will do well to note that the task they performed in establishing a successful colony could likely not have been done without such discipline and devotion. If we judge them for too much discipline, let us ask if we have too little for our own good today.
[by Dub McClish from The Edifier, Denton, Tex. via The Chapel Hill Courier, vol. 7, no. 23, June 23, 1988, p. 4]

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