DEMANDS OF CHRISTIANITY
INTRODUCTION
The Hebrew letter sets forth the "better" things of Christianity. The word is found 13 times in this epistle: (Heb. 1:4; Heb. 6:9; Heb. 7:7; Heb. 7:19; Heb. 7:22; Heb. 8:6; Heb. 9:23; Heb. 10:34; Heb. 11:16; Heb. 11:35; Heb. 11:40; Heb. 12:24). That which is better makes demands upon us. It surely does not expect less of us either in quantity or quality. What then does Christianity of Heb. 1-12 demand of us in Heb. 13?

1. A sincere love that lasts. (Heb. 13:1).
"Let brotherly love continue." It is not, "let it begin" or "it ought to be". He assumes such already exists. But wouldn't you assume such from Christianity? After all, Christians are brethren. Isn't it true that brethren are to love one another? (John 13:34-35; I John 3:16). Didn't Peter talk like it? (I Pet. 1:22) What a change would take place if this were heeded! I doubt brethren would be looking for the first opportunity to chop one another to pieces. They would be more concerned with how to heal the hurt. Many are afraid now to speak a good word in support of those who don't want to see the church splintered. Neither do they intend to compromise but they know the danger of having their love for truth questioned. Such ought not deter good brethren who are not going to be carried to extremes.

2. A sympathy that helps others. (Heb. 13:2-3).
Surely one who loves his brethren can develop the ability to be sympathetic toward those in need. The need may be help extended to one who is a stranger, but that doesn't matter. Such didn't stop the Samaritan. (Luke 10:30-36).

Such causes one to feel the restrictions of a brother, or sufferings we may have. Isn't this true of our own brethren in the flesh? Don't we suffer with them? Don't we face the restrictions they do? Surely so.

3. A sacred regard for marriage. (Heb. 13:4).
Christianity demands that marriage be considered honorable in all respects. The Christian knows God's law makes it so. (Gen. 2:21-24; Matt. 19:1-9). He knows the wrath of God comes upon those who have less than a sacred regard for this honorable estate. (Col. 3:6).

One who cannot love brethren and doesn't have much sympathy for others is not apt to make a good marriage partner. If he or she won't respect God's law in one place, they are not apt to in another.

4. A satisfaction with what one has. (Heb. 13:5-6).
In a world of material things this is not easy. Remember also that these had lost some of their possessions because they were Christians. (Heb. 10:32-34). One is apt to feel cheated and deserted when this happens. Isn't that the reason God gives his assurance that he would never, never leave nor forsake them? This being true, one can be satisfied.

5. A steadfastness to the right standards. (Heb. 13:7-9).
These could know what their past leaders stood for. There was the central theme of Jesus yesterday, today, and forever. With him others had taken their stand. That is what they are to do without being moved by the false teachers that might seek to woo them.

Wouldn't one who loves brethren, is sympathetic for the needs of others, who regards God's law of marriage as he should, and is content no matter what his state, be more apt to be stable? It would be harder to move such a man.

6. A separation from entanglements. (Heb. 13:10-14).
If one were not steadfast per Heb. 13:7-8, he would not be apt to separate himself from the things he ought not be entangled with. He is more apt to allow crowd pressure to dictate his position.

A clear line of distinction is drawn in the Bible between Judaism and Christianity. Also, one is drawn between the world and the church. These are not to be overlooked by the Christian.

7. A sacrificial life of service. (Heb. 13:15-16).
Though one lives separate from the world he has a service to render. He must be willing to do all the good he can within the confines of God's law.

Jesus lived a separate life but also one of sacrificial service.

8. A submission to authority. (Heb. 13:17).
One who is a Christian is not afraid to obey elders who are truly watching in behalf of his soul. He knows that these men know they must answer to God and whatever rule they make is made with their own accountability in mind.

But show me the man who loves his brethren, who has a compassionate heart, who regards marriage as he should, who is content, and steadfast, who lives a separate life or sacrificial service, and I'll show you one you won't have to have a catalog of rules to keep him in line all the time. He will stay in the harness.

9. A show of concern. (Heb. 13:18-21).
The writer wants the people to whom he wrote to be concerned about him as he is concerned about them. But who wouldn't want such people as are described in these verses to pray for him? Surely all of us would like to have people who love brethren and are concerned about their welfare to pray for them. I wouldn't care about some loveless brother praying for me. His prayer would not get far. Neither would one who has no regard for marriage. But one who was content and stable in his service to God would surely be heard.

Also, people like that could well be prayed for that they might go on to maturity. God's will would be having its effect in every part of their lives. Their lives would be lived to the honor and glory of God.

10. A solicitation to listen patiently. (Heb. 13:22).
He asks that they take what he says as words of encouragement. That is the way they are meant.

11. A side note of interest. (Heb. 13:23).
Timothy is free and may come to see them. If so, they would both be there. This shows the brotherly concern of Heb. 13:1.

12. A salutation with warmth. (Heb. 13:24).
Conclusion - A saintly benediction. (Heb. 13:25).
This closes the chapter and the letter by wishing no less than God's favor on all of them.
[by JWC from The Word of Life, vol. 10, no. 9, Sept., 1981, p. 3-4]

THE CHURCH LESSON VII
The Church Is Under the Authority of the New Covenant/Testament of Christ, Not the Old Testament.

I.	The Old Testament has been done away, fulfilled.
	A.	II Cor. 3:5-13
		1.	Minister of a new covenant (II Cor. 3:6).
		2.	"Written and engraven in stones" (II Cor. 3:7).
		3.	Contrasts two covenants - one passing away and one remaining. (II Cor. 3:7-11).
	B.	Gal. 3:19-25
		1.	The law added till the seed should come. (Gal. 3:19).
		2.	The law was a tutor. (Gal. 3:24)
		3.	After faith has come we are no longer under tutor (the law) (Gal. 3:25).
	C.	Col. 2:14
	D.	Heb. 11:7-12
		1.	A changed priesthood made necessary a changed law.
	E.	Heb. 8:6-13
		1.	A better covenant
		2.	A first and second covenant
		3.	A new and an old covenant (obsolete)
	F.	Heb. 9:15-17
		1.	He (Christ) is the mediator of the new covenant.
		2.	A testament is in force after men are dead.
Note: Col. 2:14 The old is done away at the cross. The new is brought into effect at the cross.
II.	The New Covenant of Christ is our authority today.
	A.	We are judged by the words/teachings of Christ.
		1.	John 12:48
		2.	Eph. 1:22-23
	B.	All truth to be given to the apostles.
		1.	The spirit would bring to their memory all that Jesus taught them. (John 14:26).
		2.	The Spirit would teach them the things they were not ready to receive. (John 16:12-14).
		3.	Therefore they bound and loosed by the Spirit's authority. (Matt. 16:19).
	C.	The word as revealed is sufficient of itself, without addition or subtraction.
		1.	II Tim. 3:16-17
		2.	II Pet. 1:2-4
	D.	The word as revealed must not be perverted or added to.
		1.	Gal. 1:6-9
		2.	II John 9
	E.	We must follow in the apostles teaching because it is the teaching of Christ, the New Covenant. (Acts 2:42).

WORDS FROM THE CROSS
The dying soldier lay cradled in the arms of his friend. As he breathes his last, the friend leans closer to hear the man's final words. It could be a scene from a movie or from life. Dying words, final thoughts, last wishes, they're usually remembered by those who hear them because they are uttered when emotions are intense and the heart is easily touched.

And so it is with the dying words of Jesus. His words from the cross are powerful and moving - then - and now. They still have the ability to touch us because they are full of HIS compassion and sincerity. They are worthy of our attention because they teach us by revealing the very heart of Jesus as he hung dying on the cross. Consider....

The Prayer of Jesus...(Luke 23:34).
Jesus taught that we should forgive those who sin against us. (Matt. 6:12-15; Matt. 18:21-35). He also said...(Matt. 5:44). How appropriate that His first words from the cross should be words of forgiveness. It's ironic that those he prayed for made the very basis of their forgiveness (and ours) possible, by crucifying the one who was praying for them! Truly, they did not know what they were doing...(I Cor. 2:8; Acts 2:22).

Now what about us? How much of His compassion and love do we practice? We often pray for our loved ones, friends and Christian family, but do we pray for our enemies? I want to become more like Jesus in this area! Do you? Then we must try harder to follow His example because...(I Pet. 2:23).

The Promise of Jesus...(Luke 23:43).
Imagine the relief and joy these words of Jesus brought to the heart of the repentant thief! Christ's use of the word "paradise" is a marvelous word that would bring a beautiful picture to the mind of the thief. The word paradise in Greek is of Persian origin and refers to a wooded park or a garden with fruit trees. When a Persian king wanted to reward someone with a special honor, he made him a "companion of the garden." This person was allowed to walk in the king's garden as a companion of the king. So, Jesus was saying the thief would walk as His companion, in the garden of the King of kings. What a gracious, wonderful promise!

Sometimes this promise to the thief is used to explain away the necessity of water baptism. Many say, "The thief was saved without baptism, so baptism is not necessary to salvation. Jesus will save me like the thief on the cross." However, the promise to the thief, was to the thief, NOT us! To us, Jesus promised...(Mark 16:16). Notice, Christ said, faith AND baptism, NOT faith and prayer.

Why must we be baptized when the thief was saved without baptism? Because Jesus made baptism necessary to our salvation! The thief lived and died before the resurrection of Christ, before Jesus commanded baptism in His name, before the gospel was preached, and before the church began. Sinners are baptized because God made baptism a participation in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. (Rom. 6:3-5). At baptism, our sins are washed away by the blood of Christ because we die with Him. (Rom. 6:3-8; Acts 22:16; Rev. 1:5). When faith and obedience meet in the waters of baptism, God forgives, because that's what He promised. (Acts 2:38).

The Provision of Jesus...(John 19:26-27).
In the midst of his own suffering, Jesus saw the anguish of his mother as Simeon's prophecy about Mary was fulfilled...(Luke 2:35). His earthly father, Joseph, had probably died by this time and evidently his own brothers (Matt. 13:55; John 7:1-5) were not at the cross. So, Jesus provided for his mother by asking his beloved disciple, John, to take care of Mary.

Our society has many forgotten, neglected parents, who have grown old and need the help of their children. Unfortunately, the children are too busy with their own concerns to meet their parent's needs. However, Christians must obey the Bible (Prov. 23:22; Prov. 30:11; Matt. 15:3-5; Eph. 6:1-3) and follow the example of Jesus!

So far we have considered three of the seven statements Jesus made while on the cross. Did you notice that they share a common theme? Jesus' prayer, His promise and His provision are all examples of selflessness. Jesus' concern for people, his willingness to put the needs of others ahead of his own needs and rights, is at the heart of all he taught. Yet, we often insist on our way, our rights, and our needs. We expect others to serve us but forget our obligation to serve them. Let's try harder to imitate Jesus who...(Matt. 20:28).
[by Howard R. Birney from Seeking the Narrow Way, vol. 1, no. 10, Oct., 1994, p. 1 and 4]

WHAT'S IN A WORD: CHURCH
English spelling: ekklesia
Pronunciation: ek-klay-see'-ah
Meaning: a calling out, the called out.
What comes to mind when you think of the word church?

Many people think of a sacred building with a pulpit, pews, and stained glass windows. Yet, in scripture the church is described as having "ears" and as sending "greetings." (Acts 11:22; Rom. 16:16). So the church cannot be a building! In the New Testament, the church often met in ordinary homes for worship. (Rom. 16:5; I Cor. 16:1). The church is sacred, NOT the building or place of worship.

Others think of church as something that happens on Sunday, with special activities like hymn singing, praying, giving, etc. Now, God expects his children to worship him and so Christians assemble for worship on the first day of the week. (John 4:23-24; Acts 20:7). There is a specified worship assembly for the church. (I Cor. 16:1-2; Heb. 10:25). However, church is not over, even after the last amen is said! The worship assembly is over but the ekklesia of Christ remains because the church exists 24 hours a day, seven days a week. (Matt. 16:18; Acts 20:28; Eph. 1:22-23).

There are those who believe the church is not important. However, the church is central to the teaching of the New Testament! It's important, because God's eternal purpose was to save the lost, by building the church through the death and resurrection of Jesus. (Eph. 3:10-11; Matt. 16:18). He continues to build his ekklesia, by calling sinners out of the world and into the church, which means the called out. So the church is important because it refers to people who have been rescued "from the dominion of darkness and brought...into the kingdom" of Christ. (Col. 1:13; Acts 26:18; I Pet. 2:9).

Today, it's popular to claim a personal relationship with Christ apart from his church. But, one cannot have a "personal relationship" with Jesus apart from his church! To have a relationship with Christ, "the head," we must be part of "the church, which is his body." (Eph. 1:22-23). When sinners are baptized into the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus, they are "washed" or "freed" from sin by the blood of Christ. (Rom. 6:2-5; Acts 22:16; Rev. 1:5). At that same moment, God adds them to the church...(Acts 2:47; Acts 20:28). Sinners are saved by the Savior, in his body, the church, which he loves and for which he died! (Eph. 5:23, 25-27). Therefore, all Christians belong to the church in its universal sense. However, God expects his people to work and worship together for mutual strength and benefit. (Gal. 6:2; Heb. 10:24-25). Every faithful Christian in each locality, serves together to form the local church in a specific community. (Acts 9:13, 32; Acts 13:1; Phili. 1:1).
To God...(Eph. 3:21).
[by Howard R. Birney from Seeking the Narrow Way, vol. 1, no. 10, Oct., 1994, p. 2 and 4]

SEEING BIBLE TRUTHS IN THE NEWS
THE RETURN OF THE "gods"!
How many times have you read about the worship of false gods like Asherah (II Kings 23:4) or Diana (Acts 19:24) and thought, "That's so foolish!"? However, if you think such foolishness could never happen in our modern, scientific, enlightened society, THINK AGAIN! The Orlando Sentinel recently published a full, two page article, entitled simply, Goddess! The article details the rise of the goddess movement among women (and men) from all walks of life. Now, we're not talking about bowing down to idols, but we are talking about idolatry and the return of the gods! Consider the following excerpts from, Goddess!

About ten years ago, "Unitarian Universalist churches developed classes related to goddesses. The classes have been popular because they offer female empowerment...." "The Unitarian study group watched a filmstrip on the Canaanite goddess Asherah...the women were so moved they decided to make goddesses." ...'In honor of our ancestors, we made our own versions of our own goddesses out of clay.' "Their pursuit of knowledge about the goddesses of Celtic, Egyptian, African, Norse, Greek and other mythologies is something of a spiritual search for equal time." "Feminists don't view Aphrodite, Venus, Isis, Kali and their pals as literal beings. Rather they are representations of female experience. For example, in Greek mythology, Artemis (or Diana) personifies the independent, achievement-oriented feminine spirit." (April 7, 1994, p.4)

In a related article, the Orlando Sentinel also describes the growth of Wicca. According to the president of the Florida chapter, Wicca, "is a modern religion of the 19th and 20th centuries that has its spiritual roots in ancient worship." "Practitioners call themselves witches." It is attracting, "a growing number of men and women because of its emphasis on balancing the male and female energies."

"Practitioners celebrate both the male and female aspects of divinity, based on solar and lunar calendars. Wiccans recognize the power of the goddess every night with worship circles at least twice a month, at the new moon and the full moon." ("Wicca always goddess-centered," April 7, 1994, p.4)

We shouldn't be too surprised at the return of the gods because idolatry is always around in one form or another. It may take the form of a man made image, a natural object like the sun, or a popular singing star. Yet, idolatry is most seductive and deceptive when it takes the form of a prevailing philosophy, idea or desire that is not centered on the true God. (Gal. 4:8-10; Col. 2:8, 18; Col. 3:5). Do you really believe that Mars, "the god of war," and Aphrodite, "the goddess of lust," are dead? The truth is, whatever we put before God or whenever we serve something instead of God, that thing becomes our god and idol!

Satan is always trying to turn men and women from the worship of the true God to false gods. He promised Eve that through disobedience and sin, she could become "like God." (Gen. 3:5). Eve believed the lie, as did Adam and most of their descendants! (Rom. 1:20-25). Today, he promises the sons of Adam and the daughters of Eve that they can find "empowerment," "balance," and "spiritual roots," by admiring and imitating the false gods of ancient peoples. But, there is NOTHING to admire about Asherah or any other god or goddess. Artemis (or Diana) does not personify the "independent, achievement-oriented feminine spirit." "Diana of the Ephesians" (Acts 19:34) was a fertility goddess and was served by prostitutes!

It doesn't matter if we view "Aphrodite...and their pals as literal beings" or not. When we pursue them to find comfort, instruction, or motivation, when we "celebrate" their character and recognize their "power" in our lives, then we become idolaters. The Bible teaches God created both men and women in his "image." (Gen. 1:26-27; Gen. 5:1-2). This doesn't mean that God has a body like ours (John 4:23) or that He is both male and female. It does mean that people are different from animals because (among other things) we were created with an eternal soul for everlasting fellowship with God. (Gen. 2:7; Heb. 12:9). It also means that both male and female are equal before God although He assigned them different roles and responsibilities. (Gen. 2:18; I Cor. 11:3, 8-9). If we truly want "empowerment," "balance," and "spiritual roots" then we must look to the God who made us and "be conformed to the likeness (or image) of his Son." (Rom. 8:29).

Christians must guard themselves against idolatry. We must not "treasure" our money, possessions, time, family, retirement, or anything else before God. (Matt. 6:21, 33; Matt. 22:37). Serve him in faith, love, and obedience, opposing all things that would steal your heart away from God. The words of the apostle John are still true today. (I John 5:20-21).
[by Howard R. Birney from Seeking the Narrow Way, vol. 1, no. 10, Oct., 1994, p. 2-3]

MANY CONVINCING PROOFS
NOAH'S ARK: DOES IT MATTER?
In 1987, I spoke about the Bible's reliability to students attending the University of Dundee, Scotland. The first question, was from an Episcopal priest who asked, "Surely you don't believe in Noah's Ark?"
What about you? Did Noah's Ark really happen? Does it matter?

* It matters IF, we want to trust God's word! According to Gen. 6-9, Noah really lived and the flood was worldwide. At least that's what the text says. Can we trust God's word or not?

* It matters IF, we are to trust Isaiah, Ezekiel, Luke, I Chronicles and Hebrews because they refer to Noah as a real person. In fact, both Luke and I Chronicles list Noah as an ancestor of Christ. (I Chron. 1:4; Isa. 54:9; Eze. 14:20; Luke 3:36; Heb. 11:7).

* It matters IF, we are to trust Jesus and Peter. Both view the flood as a real, worldwide judgement, which only Noah and those in the ark escaped. (Matt. 24:38-39; I Pet. 3:20; II Pet. 3:1-10).

To deny the historical reality of Noah or to make the flood into a local flood is to deny the very plain words of scripture. Can we really trust Jesus or Peter if they were wrong about Noah? These are serious issues indeed.

Why would anyone, deny the flood of Noah? Some deny it because they want to explain everything by natural processes. They refuse to allow God or the miraculous into their thinking. As Byron Nelson observed, "What is called 'modern geology' has eclipsed Flood geology because of a dislike for those supernatural elements which are the backbone of Christianity.... It is disregard for God and the sacred record of his acts which has caused the discarding of the Flood." [footnote 1]

Others deny a worldwide flood in an attempt to harmonize the Bible and science. Some respected Bible scholars and scientists argue for restricting the Genesis Flood, to a local flood. They believe God's word is true; therefore, it must be in harmony with the facts of science. Geology doesn't support a worldwide flood, so, Noah's flood must have been a local flood! However, many respected Bible scholars and scientists argue that geology does support a worldwide flood!

What can you do when the scholars disagree? You can ignore the issue. You can go along with whatever is popular among your friends and let others do your thinking. OR you can get informed, weigh the evidence, and draw your own conclusions!

I've rejected the local flood theory for two reasons.
Reason number one: we don't need it! My reading convinces me that there is plenty of geological evidence supporting the Biblical account of the worldwide flood. (See suggested reading list.)
Reason number two; the Bible clearly teaches a worldwide flood! The local flood idea contradicts the plain teaching and intent of scripture. By trying to harmonize scripture with modem evolutionary science, the local flood theory creates problems relating to the reliability and meaning of the Bible. For example,

* A local flood contradicts the stated intent of God "to destroy all life under the heavens...." (Gen. 6:17). It contradicts the flood's result, "Only Noah was left, and those with him in the ark." (Gen. 7:23).

* Why build a huge boat and load it with food and animals for a local flood? How could a local flood take a year to completely subside and dry? (Gen. 8:14).

* In II Peter 3:1-10, Peter compares Christ's coming worldwide judgement, with the worldwide judgement of the Genesis flood. He reminds his readers that God formed the whole earth "out of water and by water." Later, he used water to destroy that same earth! Peter didn't believe Noah's flood was a local flood. I'll stand with Peter! How about you?

Re-interrupting Genesis to fit current scientific thinking places us on dangerous ground. In fact, it may lead us down the same road as those who reject the Virgin Birth and the Bodily Resurrection of Christ, simply because those teachings don't fit current intellectual thinking!
Noah's Ark: Does it matter? What do you think?

1. Nelson, Byron. The Deluge Story In Stone (Baker Book House. Grand Rapids, Mich., 1968)
Whitcomb, John C. and Morris, Henry M., The Genesis Flood (Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, Mich., 1986)
Whitcomb, John C., The World That Perished (Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, Mich., 1982)
Thompson, Bert. & Jackson, Wayne. "Reason and Revelation (Apologetics Press, Montgomery, Ala., 1984) pp.33-52.
[by Howard R. Birney from Seeking the Narrow Way, vol. 1, no. 10, Oct., 1994, p. 3-4]

GOD'S VOICE MAIL
We have all learned to live with voice mail as a necessary part of modern life. But you may have wondered: what if God decided to install voice mail?
Imagine praying and hearing this:
Thank you for calling The Lord's House. Please select from the following options:
Press 1 for GENERAL REQUESTS
Press 2 for THANKSGIVING
Press 3 for COMPLAINTS
Press 4 for HEALING
Press 5 for HELP WITH THE IRS
Press 6 for RAIN or NO RAIN
Press 7 for MIRACLES
Press 8 for LOTTERY WINNING NUMBERS
Press 9 for ALL OTHER INQUIRIES OR JUST TO SAY "HI"
Press 0 to hear this menu again
What if God used the familiar excuse:
"I'm sorry, all the angels are helping other SINNERS right now."
"Please stay on the line. Your call is important to us and will be answered in this millennium."
Can you imagine getting these kinds of responses as you call God in prayer:
"If you would like to speak to Gabriel, press 11. For Michael, press 22. For a directory of the other Archangels, press 33."
"If you would like to hear King David sing a Psalm while you are holding, please press 55, then wait for the beep and enter the number of the Psalm you wish to hear."
"To find out if a loved one has been assigned to Heaven, press 62. Enter his or her social security number, then press the pound (#) key, enter their date of birth, then press the pound (#) key twice."
"For answers to nagging questions about dinosaurs, the age of the earth, where Noah's Ark is, Darwin, Hitler, the Pope, abortion, and UFOs, please wait until you arrive here. Answers can only be understood from a 'heavenly perspective.'"
"To reach Lucifer, press 666, and your call will be automatically transferred. PLEASE be careful; your receiver may become warm."
"Our computers show that you have already called once today. Please hang up and try tomorrow."
"This office is closed for the weekend. Please call again on Monday, after 9:30 A.M., but before 4:30 ACST (Absolute Celestial Standard Time)."
"To order any religious material, enter catalog number, quantity, and a major credit card number plus expiration date."
"For emergencies, refer to your BIBLE."

THE BLESSED TEST
I woke up this morning and knew that today, the sun would not be shining and the clouds would be gray.
As I stepped outside, rain fell upon my head.
My car wouldn't start so I walked to school instead.
I forgot all of my assignments, I failed all of my tests.
I dropped my head in disgust and asked the Lord for one request.
"Lord, why is it that things won't go my way?"
He gently replied, "Dear child it is because you didn't thank me yesterday.
I woke you up and enabled you to see the sun again.
I gave you shelter, protected your family, and even let you make a new friend.
I blessed you far greater than I ever had before.
But you were too busy to thank me once more.
You didn't feel sick because I maintained your health.
You had money in your pocket because I maintained your wealth.
You had shoes on you feet and clothes to wear, too.
You had plenty of food to eat, and what did you do?
You ignored me and went about your tasks.
But when you wanted something you never hesitated to ask.
I was there when you needed me, and that wasn't too long ago.
But when things started going your way, it was me you did not know.
As if that weren't enough, I provided your favorite luxuries.
This was something I didn't have to do - they weren't even necessities
And when it was time to get on your knees and show your gratitude,
You decided that after such a fulfilling day, you weren't in the mood.
So I decided to give you just a little test.
To show you how it would feel to stop being blessed.
I began to realize what the Lord was saying.
And when I got home, I fell to my knees and started praying.
He said, "My child, you have learned and you know I do forgive.
But remember to remember this day as long as you shall live.
I love filling your life with joy, and your pain I'll alleviate it.
But just a simple thank you would show how much you appreciate it."

YOUR CROSS
Whatever your cross, whatever your pain,
There will always be sunshine after the rain.
Perhaps you may stumble, perhaps even fall,
But God's always ready to answer your call.
He knows every heartache, sees every tear,
A word from His lips can calm every fear.
Your sorrows may linger throughout the night,
But suddenly vanish at dawn's early light.
The Savior is waiting somewhere above,
To give you His grace and send you His love.
Whatever your cross, whatever your pain,
God always sends rainbows after the rain.

PRAYER:
May today there be peace within you. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content knowing that you are a child of God. Let His presence settle into your bones and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, and to bask in the sun. It is there for each and every one of you.

THE ANT AND THE CONTACT LENS
Brenda was a young woman who was invited to go rock climbing. Although she was scared to death, she went with her group to a tremendous granite cliff. In spite of her fear, she put on the gear, took a hold on the rope, and started up the face of that rock. Well, she got to a ledge where she could take a breather. As she was hanging on there, the safety rope snapped against Brenda's eye and knocked out her contact lens.

Here she is on a rock ledge, with hundreds of feet below her and hundreds of feet above her. Of course, she looked and looked and looked, hoping it had landed on the ledge, but it just wasn't there. Far from home, her sight now blurry, she was desperate and began to get upset, so she prayed to the Lord to help her to find it.

When she got to the top, a friend examined her eye and her clothing for her lens, but there was no contact lens to be found. She sat down, despondent, with the rest of the party, waiting for the rest of them to make it up the face of the cliff. She looked out across range after range of mountains, thinking of that Bible verse that says, "The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth." She thought, "Lord, You can see all these mountains. You know every stone and leaf, and You know exactly where my contact lens is. Please help me."

Finally, the group walked down the trail to the bottom. At the bottom there was a new party of climbers just starting up the face of the cliff. One of them shouted out, "Hey, you guys! Anybody lose a contact lens?"
Well, that would be startling enough, but you know why the climber saw it? An ant was moving slowly across the face of the rock, carrying it!
Brenda told me that her father is a cartoonist. When she told him the incredible story of the ant, the prayer, and the contact lens, he drew a picture of an ant lugging that contact lens with the words, "Lord, I don't know why You want me to carry this thing. I can't eat it, and it's awfully heavy. But if this is what You want me to do, I'll carry it for You."

At the risk of being accused of being philosophical, I think it would probably do some of us good to occasionally say "God, I don't know why you want me to carry this load. I can see no good in it and it's awfully heavy. But, if you want me to carry it, I will."
God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called.
[by Josh and Karen Zarandona]

THE CHURCH - A FELLOWSHIP FOR SERVICE
A Divine Service
Apart from meeting together to share in worship (Acts 2:42), every Christian has a two-fold mission to the people of the world. The first and foremost mission is the telling of the good news of salvation (Acts 5:42; Acts 6:2; Acts 8:4). The second and concurrent mission is the doing of good works of mercy (Eph. 2:10; Gal. 6:10; James 1:27).
The apostle Peter told the Gentile household of Cornelius...(Acts 10:36-38).
If the good news of Jesus means anything to the person who believes, the telling of that same good news to others follows.
If the good works of Jesus moves the believer, the doing of like good works also follows.
Thus the Christian will seek every opportunity (Eph. 5:16) to proclaim and perform the Lord's will. God's word gives us all we need to know to tell people how to be "wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus" and also to enable us to be...(II Tim. 3:15-17).
There is no more satisfying and fulfilling life role for the Christian than to continually engage in telling the good news and in doing good works. The field for such service is immense (Luke 10:2; Matt. 26:11).
Questions

1.	Consider the New Testament accounts of local churches serving those in need:
	(a)	How did the members of the church at Jerusalem help those of their fellowship who were in need? (Acts 2:44-45; Acts 4:32-35).
	(b)	What was the result of this sharing? (Acts 4:34).
	(c)	What determined the level of giving? (Acts 2:45; Acts 4:35).
	(d)	What problems were encountered in this work? (Acts 6:1).
	(e)	How did the church set about rectifying the problems? (Acts 6:2-6).
	(f)	When a wide-spread famine was predicted (Acts 11:27-28), what did the church at Antioch do? (Acts 11:29).
	(g)	What determined the level of giving? (Acts 11:29).
	(h)	How was the gift to be sent, and who were to receive and supervise its distribution? (Acts 11:30).
	(i)	What scriptural principle did this act of sharing demonstrate? (Rom. 15:27. Cf. Acts 11:22).
	(j)	What other churches were involved in this service of giving to ease the need in the Jerusalem church? (I Cor. 16:1-3; Rom. 15:26).
2.	Consider the New Testament descriptions of the attitudes commended in serving other churches in need:
	(a)	How did Paul describe the attitude of the members of the Macedonian and Achaian churches? (Rom. 15:26).
		(1)	II Cor. 8:2 (Macedonian churches)
		(2)	II Cor. 9:2 (Achaian churches, including Corinth)
	(b)	How did the Macedonian Christians view the appeal to help others? (II Cor. 8:4).
	(c)	What motivated their giving to others? (II Cor. 8:5).
	(d)	What did Paul urge the Corinthian brethren to abound in? (II Cor. 8:7).
	(e)	What does true Christian giving demonstrate? (II Cor. 8:8).
	(f)	Who set the paramount example of giving? (II Cor. 8:9)
	(g)	When a work is started what should be done? (II Cor. 8:6, 11).
	(h)	What makes such a gift acceptable in God's eyes? (II Cor. 8:12. Cf. Mark 12:41-44; Phili. 4:18b).
	(i)	What prudent test determines how sharing ought to be done between churches? (II Cor. 8:13).
	(j)	What care should be taken with such gifts? (II Cor. 8:18-21).
3.	General spiritual principles in giving
	(a)	What is God's proportionate promise in giving? (II Cor. 9:6).
	(b)	How should one give? (II Cor. 9:7).
	(c)	What is God's promise to the cheerful giver? (II Cor. 9:8, 10).
	(d)	What is the purpose for God's beneficence to us? (II Cor. 9:8, 11).
	(e)	What are the dual effects of the service of giving? (II Cor. 9:12ff).
	(f)	To whom are we also rendering service when we attend to the needs of others? (Matt. 25:35-40).
	(g)	What is the greatest quality which promotes the greatest self-sacrifice in service to others? (I Cor. 13:3-8).
	(h)	What words of Jesus should we remember when helping the weak? (Acts 20:35).
	(i)	To whom should each Christian do good? (Gal. 6:10).
	(j)	What attitude must the Christian have towards relatives? (I Tim. 5:8).
	(k)	What should wealthy Christians do? (I Tim. 6:17-19).
	(l)	What should we not forget? Why? (Heb. 13:16).
	(m)	What must accompany good will? (James 2:15-16; I John 3:18).

[from The Truth In Love, p. 2-3, 12-13]

MISSING THE MESSIAH
The prophets of the Old Testament constantly warned ancient Israel of God's coming judgement against their sin. Yet even in Israel's darkest days, God gave his people hope through the promise of a coming Messiah, specially anointed or chosen, to deliver his people! (Messiah comes from a Hebrew word that means "anointed one.") This hope of a coming deliverer helped the Jews through the long years of captivity and occupation by foreign powers. (Isa. 11:1-4; Jer. 23:5-6; Dan. 9:25; Micah 5:2). By New Testament times, Jews everywhere were eagerly anticipating this coming Messiah. (Luke 2:25-26, 36-38; John 1:19-20, 41 etc.). Even the Samaritans were looking for the Christ - "Could this be the Christ?" (John 4:29, 25). (The Greek word Christos -"Christ"- means "anointed.") However, most of Israel ended up missing the Messiah, even though they were looking for him! WHY?

Most Jews missed the Messiah, while he was on earth, because Jesus didn't fit their expectations.

* They expected their Messiah to be a military leader and king who would defeat their enemies and bring them prosperity. Yet, Jesus rejected their idea of kingship since his kingdom was, "not of this world" (John 18:36; John 6:15). It had a different nature from earthly kingdoms because Jesus established his rule through love, humility, and service, not with the sword! (Matt. 20:25-28; Matt. 26:51-55).

* They knew the Christ would be, "The son of David" (Matt. 22:42) but they were surprised and offended at his claim to be "the Son of God" (John 10:29-33; Matt. 26:63-65). Their hard hearts even caused them to explain away the evidence of his oneness with the Father! (Matt. 12:24; Luke 16:30-31; John 10:24-25; John 14:11).

* They anticipated the "wisdom," "understanding," and "knowledge" of the Messiah (Isa. 11:2; John 4:25) but they were not prepared for his authority or his condemnation of their vain religious traditions and hypocritical lives. (Matt. 7:21-29; Matt. 15:1-14; Matt. 23).

* They believed "the Christ" would, "remain forever." That's why "the crowd" asked Jesus, "how can you say, 'The Son of Man must be lifted up'?" (John 12:34) This idea of a crucified Messiah made Peter "rebuke" Jesus, and caused many to reject him (Mark 8:27-33; I Cor. 1:23). However, they missed the Messiah because they misread the scriptures; they saw only what they wanted to see! (John 5:39-40). That's why Jesus rebuked his disciples saying...(Luke 24:25).

Paul summed up Israel's tragedy in these words, "they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge." Their ignorance of "God's righteousness" caused them "to establish their own" righteousness, and so they ended up missing the Messiah! (Rom. 10:1-3).

Now let's suppose Jesus was born today and lived among us, without a "halo," special religious clothing or anything else that would distinguish him from an ordinary man. Would the people of today treat him with respect or scorn? Would today's "believers" oppose Jesus like the religious people, the "believers" of his time?

* Many would still reject the Christ because of his supernatural credentials. Jesus, the great teacher and social reformer is acceptable; but Jesus, the Son of God is not! However, his virgin birth, (Matt. 1:18-25) his miracles, (John 20:30-31) and his empty tomb, (John 20:24-28) prove his oneness with God (John 10:30-33; John 20:28)! Yet, many claim Christ while denying his Deity. IF we will not accept the supernatural Jesus, we will miss the Messiah!

* Some would refuse Jesus because he believed in the inspiration of the entire Old Testament. He viewed the creation, Adam and Eve, Noah, the flood, the destruction of Sodom, and Lot's wife, as real, historical, people and events (Mark 10:6; Matt. 19:4; Matt. 24:37-39; Luke 17:29-32). Yet, many people, and much of "Christianity," view the things mentioned above as myth or symbolic stories. If we can't trust Jesus with historical events, how can we trust him as "Lord and Christ"? (Acts 2:36).

* Others would reject the Messiah because some of his teachings are "hard" (John 6:60, 66). For example, many find Christ's teaching on the reality of hell's eternal punishment hard to accept (Matt. 25:41, 46; Luke 12:5). Remarkably, some who claim to follow Jesus, try the hardest to explain hell away! Some teach that God will save everybody, even Satan! Many proclaim that unbelievers stay forever dead, but faithful witnesses will live on the new earth or in heaven. Others insist that penitent sinners are purified from their sins in purgatory and escape hell. Yet, when we reject or modify any of the Christ's doctrines, we reject both the Father and the Son (John 12:48-49; II John 1:9).

* Sometimes the Messiah offended "believers" by condemning their vain religious traditions and hypocritical lives (Matt. 5:1-14). Suppose the Christ came to church one Sunday and began rebuking "believers" who practice their religion only on Sundays? (Matt. 23; Matt. 25). Wouldn't the existence of denominations and the "have it your way" attitude of modern "Christianity" earn his condemnation? (John 17:20-21; I Cor. 1:10-13). Would Jesus find fault with some "Christian" traditions like infant baptism? Yes! Infant baptism substitutes sprinkling for the baptism Christ commanded, immersion of believers in water, "for the remission of sins" (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38). No doubt Jesus would offend many, all over again.

* Many today are like the disciples who were rebuked for being "slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken!" (Luke 24:25). This is especially true when the subject is salvation! Some quote John 3:16 or Rom. 10:9-10 and ignore Acts 2:38 or Rom. 6:2-7. Others say one must believe, repent, and pray, (invite Jesus into your heart) but the scriptures say believe, repent and be baptized. We must not be like the Jews of old misreading the scriptures, seeing only what we want to see. Then we will miss the Messiah!

Are you missing the Messiah? You don't need to talk to the Christ personally, because He will tell you through His word! Look into the New Testament which contains all of Jesus' will for anyone living after the Cross (John 12:48; II Pet. 1:3). Don't trust your feelings or the opinions of another person; compare your beliefs and practices with his standard (I Cor. 14:37; Eph. 3:3-5; Jude 3)! Then you will know if you are following the Messiah or missing him!
[by Howard R. Birney from Seeking the Narrow Way, vol. 2, no. 2, Feb., 1995, p. 1, 4]

WHAT'S IN A WORD?: PEACE
Greek Word: eirene
Pronunciation: i-ray'-nay
Meaning: "To join;" (by implication) - "prosperity;" (includes the ideas of) - "rest, contentment, harmony, safety, quietness" (from Strong's & Thayer's)

The Bible's message of peace calls to a world filled with troubles. Isaiah promised the "prince of peace" would come to establish a government of "peace" (Isa. 9:6-7) while Jeremiah and Ezekiel spoke about a "new," "everlasting covenant," of "peace" (Jer. 31:31-34; Eze. 37:26). To fulfill these promises "the God of love and peace" (II Cor. 13:11) sent Jesus who was born as angels announced "peace" in his name (Luke 2:14). Indeed, Paul summarizes the work of Jesus in these words, "He came and preached peace" (Eph. 2:17). His message promotes peace in three key areas of life.

1. Peace With God. This is our greatest and most basic need! When we follow Satan, we are at war with God. (Col. 1:21). However, when we trust Jesus enough to be "baptized into his death," burial, and resurrection, (Rom. 6:3-5) then we are "justified through faith," and "have peace with God" (Rom. 5:1). We also gain the assurance of lasting peace with God, because his grace continually removes the guilt of sin as "we walk in the light" (I John 1:7-10). Peace with God forms the foundation of peace now and for eternity.

2. Peace Within Ourselves. Life's uncertainties and fears often fill our hearts with anxiety, and take our joy and peace - but they don't have to! Jesus told his disciples...(John 14:27). Notice, Jesus promised to give his peace. His peace allowed him to sleep in the storm, face his enemies, and endure the cross (Matt. 8:24; John 18; Heb. 12:2)! This kind of peace comes from a deep, abiding trust and an unwavering conviction that God rules (Rev. 1:5). It does not depend on circumstances or appearances, but on the living God (Rom. 8:28). We can have that same inner calm and confidence for living, if we will trust God more and refuse to listen to our fears (Phili. 4:6-7).

3. Peace With Others. Conflicts between people are common and always destroy peace.

Sometimes they arise because of our faith in Christ. Jesus said...(Matt. 10:34). He knew that Satan would continually stir up war and promote trouble between the disciples of darkness and light. However, most conflicts between people come because we allow Satan to rule through anger, pride, unkind words, or unloving actions. Whenever we see conflict, we see Satan at work, because God "is not a God of disorder but of peace" (I Cor. 14:33). This being true, his children must "pursue peace," (Psa. 34:14) and be "peacemakers" (Matt. 5:9) by being...(Eph. 4:32). We must work for peace because Paul tells us...(Rom. 12:18).

Politicians promise peace; nations sign peace treaties; police officers try to keep the peace and people wear peace symbols. Yet, real peace begins when we obey the "God of peace" and allow "the peace of Christ" to "rule in" our "hearts" (Col. 3:15). Then we can have peace regardless of circumstances!
[by Howard R. Birney from Seeking the Narrow Way, vol. 2, no. 2, Feb., 1995, p. 2, 4]

MEN & WOMEN OF HONOR: LOIS AND EUNICE - WOMEN OF FAITH
(II Tim. 1:5).
Paul wrote these words of brotherly love and encouragement to Timothy, "his dear son" - "in the faith," (II Tim. 1:21; I Tim. 1:2) about 68 A.D. The great apostle knew his life would soon end and he also knew Timothy's faith needed reassuring (II Tim. 1:6-8; I Tim. 4:6). So, Paul writes his "son" and begins his letter by reminding him of their mutual love and concern for each other (II Tim. 1:3-4). Then, he reminds Timothy that the roots of his faith are found in the lives of two great women of faith, Lois and Eunice (II Tim. 1:5).

What does scripture say about these women? We know Eunice (name meaning victorious) had a Greek name and her husband was a Gentile (Acts 16:1). However, both Eunice and her mother Lois (name meaning agreeable desirable) were devout Jews who knew the Old Testament (II Tim. 3:15). We also know that both women became Christians as a result of Paul's first missionary journey, 46-48 A.D., because they were already believers' when he returned in 49-52 A.D. (Acts 16:1). Finally, we know from Acts 16:1 that Eunice and (probably) Lois lived in the city of Lystra (in modern day Turkey).

What does scripture say about their faith?
Lois and Eunice had "sincere faith"! Sincere faith combines three ingredients into a life that pleases God. First: sincere faith is genuine; it does not pretend. Some people "honor" God "with their lips, but their hearts are far from" him (Matt. 15:7-8; II Tim. 3:5). Second: sincere faith has proper motives. Some people use faith to gain the praise of men, or to suit their own desires. (Matt. 6:1-5; II Tim. 4:3). But sincere faith "earnestly" seeks the living God, wanting only to please him and receive his "rewards" (Heb. 11:6). Third: sincere faith obeys Jesus, because faith that does not act "is dead" and cannot save (James 2:17; Luke 6:46). When sinners "wholeheartedly obey" (sincerely trust) the gospel through their death, burial, and resurrection with Jesus, in baptism, then they are set free from sin (Rom. 6:1-6, 17, 18).

Lois and Eunice had a sincere faith that "lived" in them! This means faith in Christ ruled every aspect of their lives. Faith guided their actions, instructed their thoughts, and protected them from Satan's "flaming arrows" (Col. 3:14; Eph. 6:16). Their trust in Christ gave them strength for today and confidence for tomorrow (II Tim. 1:12). Paul summed up this kind of living faith in these words...(Gal. 2:20). This kind of faith does not happen by accident. If we will hear God's word, respond to it honestly, and patiently apply it to life, then we will produce the "fruit" of a living faith! (Rom. 10:17; Luke 8:11, 15).

Lois and Eunice had a sincere faith that lived in them and influenced others! II Tim. 1:5 shows a progression of faith; it "first lived in" Lois, then Eunice, and finally Timothy. Yet, the foundation for their faith in Jesus was laid long before Paul came to Lystra! Evidently, the godly Lois instructed her daughter and then helped train her grandson in the Old Testament. The devout Eunice trained Timothy "from infancy" in "the holy scriptures" with her daily example, her prayers, and her careful teaching (II Tim. 3:15). Even the name Timothy, reflects her faith and the direction she desired for his life, because Timothy means "one who fears or honors God." It was their knowledge of the Old Testament that made them "wise for salvation through faith in Christ," when Paul came preaching Jesus as the Christ.

What does their faith say to us?
Their faith affirms the benefit of the Old Testament! Many Christians neglect to study the Old because they live under the New (Rom. 7:4) - this a mistake! We should study the Old so we can see (and show others) how the New fulfills the Old (Acts 8:30-35). By neglecting the Old, we miss the "warnings" and "encouragement" that God intended us to have (Rom. 15:4; I Cor. 10:6, 11).

Their faith declares the importance of a godly home! Lois, Eunice, and Timothy were nurtured in homes where God was feared, his word was respected, and faith was applied to life (Deut. 6:4-7). Bringing our children to Sunday school and worship is good; but doing that, AND training them at home to love God, is better (Prov. 1:8; Eph. 6:1-4)! Lois and Eunice used their homes as powerful "sermons" to accomplish eternal results. May God help us to do the same.

Their faith proclaims the value of serving God! When Paul wrote Timothy in 68 A.D., the faith of Lois and Eunice was about twenty years old. Think about the impact for good that twenty years of sincere faith produces! Remember, God takes our small efforts and produces a bountiful harvest. Here are just three examples. First: they share in the fruit of every soul won through Timothy's efforts because they were faithful in his early training. Second: they share in the fruit of intercessory prayer because God listens to his children (I Tim. 2:1-4; James 5:16). Paul believed the prayers of faithful Christians helped him (II Cor. 1:10-11). How many were helped through the prayers of these faithful women during twenty years of prayer? Perhaps God will reveal it in heaven. Third: they share in "the fruit of the Spirit" because their sincere faith reveals his presence in their lives (Gal. 5:22-25). What an asset these godly women must have been to the church in Lystra because faithful women are essential to the work of any congregation!

The faith of these two women of God still speaks today! Our homes, our churches, and our communities, desperately need women (and men) who will imitate the faith of Lois and Eunice. Will you?
[by Howard R. Birney from Seeking the Narrow Way, vol. 2, no. 2, Feb., 1995, p. 2-3]

MANY CONVINCING PROOFS: NOAH'S ARK: THE NEW WORLD
"The Flood marks the end of a world of transcendent beauty, created by God as a perfect abode for man, and the beginning of a 'new world,' a mere shadowy replica of its original glory. In all recorded history there is no other event except the Fall, which has had such a revolutionary effect upon the topography and condition of this earth, and which has so profoundly affected human history and every phase of life as it now exists in its manifold forms in the world..." (Professor Alfred M. Rehwinkel, The Flood, Concordia. 1961, p. xv.)

As we have seen, the fossil evidence reveals the entire globe once had a tropical type climate (see the Dec. 1994 & Jan 1995 issues). Even evolutionists speak conclusively of the earth's one time, warm climate and conclude, "The land was low and there were no high mountains forming physical or climatic barriers." (E.H. Colbeit Scientific Monthly. August 1949, Vol. 69, p.71.) Many scientists believe the warm climate came from a combination of low mountains and the presence of a great water vapor canopy (Gen. l:6-8). This canopy caused a greenhouse effect, trapping the reflection of solar heat, which produced a warm climate even in the polar regions. (See, The Waters Above by Dr. Joseph Di Liow, Moody, 1981.) How did the Flood change the original world created by God into a "new world"?

The new climate! When God opened "the floodgates of the heavens" torrential rains fell for "forty" days and nights (Gen. 7:11-12). This collapse of the vapor canopy in the early weeks of the flood, caused rapid cooling of the earth and produced snow and ice in the higher latitudes. It also allowed huge glaciers to form in the polar regions, and may explain the sudden freezing of mammoths and other creatures. (Many mammoths have been found frozen in their flesh, with warm weather plants in their mouths and stomachs. Some were found sunken into mud and then frozen in that position.) Without the vapor canopy, the earth became subject to temperature extremes between the poles and equator. This, along with broader oceans and higher mountains resulted in new zones of climate, weather patterns and seasons. (Gen. 8:22).

The new oceans! A larger proportion of the earth's surface is now taken up in ocean basins and water surface areas. These new basins serve as reservoirs for the waters released when...(Gen. 7:11). Remember, God originally caused the "dry ground" to "appear" out of the waters that covered the earth (Gen. 1:9-10, in one, 24 hour day). At that time he set limits on the oceans saying to the waters...(Job 38:l1). Now, after flooding the earth in judgement, God stopped the "fountains of the deep" so that "water receded steadily from the earth" (Gen. 8:2-3). Once more, God made boundaries for the oceans, promising Noah...(Gen. 9:11). Or in the words of the Psalms...(Psa. 104:9).

The "new" mountains! Mountain ranges in our present world are different from those before the Flood in at least two ways. First: they are packed with the fossilized remains of billions of plants and animals that were rapidly buried to great depths by the swirling waters of the Flood. (Mountains before the Flood had no fossils, for they were uplifted by God before living things were created, Gen. 1:9-10, 20-22). Second: Many geologists estimate the mountains are as much as four times higher in elevation. The presence of multiplied millions of marine fossils at high elevations, show that the mountains were once under sea water. During the Flood, and after, God used the tremendous hydrologic energies and earth moving forces, unleashed by the Flood, to raise the mountains and other land areas from the waters of the Flood.

The "new" promise! After Noah left the ark God promised him...(Gen. 9:11. This promise is without meaning, IF the flood was not worldwide.). The "rainbow" is the "sign of this covenant" God made with "the earth" and "all life on the earth" (Gen. 9:12-17). This sign is so important that God uses the rainbow to stand as a symbol for his glory and mercy (Isa. 54:9; Eze. 1:28; Rev. 4:3; Rev. 10:1). One day however, his mercy will end and God will forever destroy this world, not by water (as he promised) but by fire! (II Pet. 3:3-10).

God has preserved the record of the Flood, in the earth and in his word, as a warning of the coming worldwide judgement! Are you ready; or are you one of the, "mockers" Peter spoke of?
[by Howard R. Birney from Seeking the Narrow Way, vol. 2, no. 2, Feb., 1995, p. 3-4]

THE CHRISTIAN'S HOPE
(I Pet. 1:3). In contrast to the "rest of men, who have no hope," (I Thes. 4:13) Christians have a living hope that resides within them (I Pet. 3:15)! What is the Christian's hope?

The New Testament describes our hope as "good," "blessed," "better" and "living" (II Thes. 2:16; Titus 2:13; Heb. 7:19). As Christians we look forward to seeing Christ and receiving his "glory" (I John 3:2-3; Col. 1:27). We eagerly anticipate our complete "salvation" that comes at the "resurrection" from the grave into "eternal life" (I Thes. 5:8; Acts 23:6-8; Rom. 8:23-25; Titus 1:2). Like God's people of old, Christians admit that they are "aliens" (foreigners) "and strangers on earth" because they view heaven as their native land. We are "longing" for our "heavenly country" and the "city prepared" by God for us (Heb. 11:13-16). So hope sustains us in this life by pointing the way to eternal life. But what is hope?

Webster's defines hope as, "the feeling that what is wanted can be had..." So hope combines our desire for the future, "what is wanted," with expectation, "can be had." However, the dictionary also attaches an element of doubt or uncertainty to hope by adding, "...or the feeling that events may turn out for the best." (Random House, 1983, p. 683.) And this is the way we use the word many times. We "hope everything will be all right," but we cannot be certain. Students often say, "I hope to get a good grade on the test." They desire a good grade but they are uncertain about the final outcome. Unfortunately, some Christians understand their hope in the same way - they desire eternal life, but they are not sure of the outcome! When asked if they are going to heaven, these Christians reply, "I hope to!" They desire heaven but they're uncertain about being there. However, Biblical hope combines desiring what God promised, with the certainly that we will receive our desire.

The Greek word for hope (elpis, el-pece') means, "joyful and confident expectation," concerning the "unseen and the future." (Thayer's & Vines) That is what the Holy Spirit meant when He inspired Paul to write...(Rom. 8:24-25). Notice, our hope is future and certain - "we wait for it patiently"! Peter describes our hope as...(I Pet. 1:4). The author of Hebrews calls it...(Heb. 6:19). So, the Christian's hope is something that is both future and certain. The confidence of Paul beautifully illustrates our hope.

How would Paul reply to the question, "Are you going to heaven?" I'm sure his answer would have been a confident "Yes!" That was his answer in A.D. 62-63 when he wrote the Philippians from a Roman prison. Paul wrote...(Phili. 1:21). Consider the confidence found in the words, "to die is gain." Death is the greatest fear for the worldly minded individual because he does not know what lies beyond the grave. But Paul knew! His conviction is expressed in these words...(Phili. 1:23). He viewed death with confidence because he was certain in his hope. This confident hope sustained Paul when he faced death for the final time in 68 A.D. Listen to the confidence that echos from his words...(II Tim. 4:6-8).

We can have the same confidence as Paul - if we view life as he did. For Paul, the purpose of life was living for Christ - "For to me, to live is Christ...." This means, "the glory of Christ ought to be the end of our life, the grace of Christ the principle of our life, and the word of Christ the rule of it." (Matthew Henry's Commentary, "PC Study Bible," Biblesoft, 1993).

Living for Christ produces confidence because...
* Jesus becomes "our hope" (I Tim. 1:1). Jesus became Paul's hope when was he "baptized" to "wash (his) sins away" (Acts 22:16). He wasn't baptized to earn salvation; he was immersed in water, trusting Christ's death, burial, and resurrection for salvation (Rom. 6:3-5). With Christ as our hope, we don't have to worry if we are "faithful enough" or if we're "doing enough," because no Christian is ever faithful enough! Instead, we trust the finished work of Jesus, who by the grace of God, fully paid the price for sin (Eph. 2:8; Heb. 1:3; Heb. 10:12). (I Pet. 1:21)...- not in our faithfulness.

*Our "hope" stimulates our "faith and love" (Col. 1:5). Together these three virtues produce a...(Col. 1:10). Paul knew he could never be faithful enough to earn salvation, but he could be "faithful" (Rev. 2:10). That's why he...(II Tim. 4:7). We must also keep "the faith." Christians are saved by grace, but we must obey the requirements of grace. Living by grace requires us to live lives that "say 'No' to ungodliness" and "yes to godliness"...(Titus 2:11-13).

How do we know that we are keeping the faith? The apostle John tells us...(I John 3:21). Now this confidence comes from testing our hearts against the written word of God. Do you...(I John 5:13)? Are you obeying "his commands" (I John 2:3-6)? Do you "love" your brothers and sisters "with actions and in truth" (I John 3:14-18)? Then your heart won't condemn you and this produces confidence before God. What do we do when our hearts condemn us for sin? We humbly "confess our sins" to God and confidently trust his promise to "forgive our sins" (I John 1:7-10).

The Christian's hope rings out in the words of my favorite hymn. "This world is not my home, I'm just a-passing thru..." (A.E. Brumley, Sacred Selections For The Church, 1960, p. 361). May God help us to live by the hope found in His testimony about Jesus!
(I John 5:11-12).
Do you have "the Son"?
[by Howard R. Birney from Seeking the Narrow Way, vol. 2, no. 3, Mar., 1995, p. 1, 4]

WHAT'S IN A WORD? : FAITH
Greek Word: pistis
Pronunciation: pis'- tis
Meaning: "'firm persuasion,' conviction based upon hearing." - "... trust conjoined with obedience." (From Vine's and Thayer's)

Faith, and the corresponding verb believe, (pisteuo; pist-yoo'-o) are used over 450 times in the New Testament to define our relationship with God. For example, we are "sanctified" and "justified by faith," "live" and "walk by faith" and are "saved through faith" (Acts 26:18; Rom. 5:1; Rom. 1:17; II Cor. 5:7; Eph. 2:8).

What is Faith? Faith that pleases God can be defined as trust that obeys. It is to be so firmly persuaded of God's reliability as revealed in Christ that one willingly commits his or her life to God. (II Tim. 1:12). This commitment always includes obedience because faith is an action word. Paul spoke of "the obedience that comes from faith" ("the obedience of faith" - N.A.S.) and Jesus asked...(Rom. 1:5; Rom. 16:26; Luke 6:46).

How Does Faith Begin? We come to trust God in the same way that we come to trust any stranger, we get to know them! We get to know God through his word.

Paul explains...(Rom. 10:17; John 8:30-31). His word is the "seed" that produces faith - if - it is planted into the "good soil" of a heart that carefully listens to understand and obey (Luke 8:11-15; James 1:18, 21-25; I Pet. 1:23).

When Does Faith Save? In the New Testament, "faith" describes various degrees of trust. Jesus speaks of "little faith," shallow faith, and fruitless faith, while John describes people whose faith didn't continue, and those with fearful faith (Matt. 8:26; Luke x8:13-14; John 8:30-44; John 9:22; John 12:42-43). James declares "faith without works is dead" and compares it to the faith of "demons" (James 2:14-20). And the book of Hebrews warns believers against...(Heb. 3:1, 6, 12-14). Obviously these kinds of faith cannot save; so when does faith save?

Faith saves when we trust Jesus enough to obey him (Rom. 6:15-17). Of course, neither faith nor its requirements actually save us - Jesus is the Savior (Matt. 1:21). However, faith is the channel through which God brings salvation. Acts 2 perfectly illustrates this principle of salvation by "grace ... through faith" (Eph. 2:8).

Acts 2 reveals God bringing 3000 unbelievers to saving faith through the "message of Christ" (Rom. 10:17; Acts 2:14, 22, 29, 37, 40, 41). After considering the evidence of fulfilled prophecy, eyewitness testimony, and confirming miracles, many in the crowd were persuaded to believe (Acts 2:22-35). (We have the same evidence in the New Testament, John 20:30-31, etc.) Thousands now believed that the "Jesus" they "crucified" was "both Lord and Christ" (Acts 2:36). They were "cut to the heart" and asked, "what shall we do?" (Acts 2:37). Although they had faith, they were not yet saved, because they were still not forgiven. Peter's answer to their question reveals God's required response of faith. (Acts 2:38). Acts 2:41 shows sinners being saved by grace through faith.

Faith saves when it fully trusts in and sincerely responds to the finished work of Christ. Faith initially responds by repentance and baptism into the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (Acts 2:38; Rom. 6:1-7). It continues to respond by trusting the "blood of Jesus" for daily cleansing from sin by "walk(ing) in the light" (I John 1:7). Praise God for the gospel! (Rom. 1:17).
[by Howard R. Birney from Seeking the Narrow Way, vol. 2, no. 3, Mar., 1995, p. 2, 4]

MEN & WOMEN OF HONOR : ANTIPAS...THE FAITHFUL WITNESS
In the second half of the first century, Christians were confronted with a wave of persecution from Roman authorities, which threatened their very existence. Among those brethren that paid the ultimate price was Antipas (an-tee'-pas) of Pergamum. Antipas was probably named after his earthly father; yet his name, which means "likeness of his father," well describes a faithful Christian (Matt. 5:48; Matt. 6:9; Gal. 4:6). And Christ affirmed his faithfulness by describing him as...(Rev. 2:13).

The City Where He Lived!
Antipas lived and died in Pergamum or Pergamos (both names were used). It was the capital of the Roman province of Asia, the center of Rome's authority and power for that area. Pergamum was also a city of education and culture. It had a library containing over 200,000 items, second only to the one in Alexandria, Egypt. The scholars of Pergamum, due to an embargo of Egyptian papyrus, developed a new form of writing material, "Pergamena charta" or parchment (vellum, polished animal skin). God used the city "where Satan lives" to develop the writing material that helped preserve the great Greek manuscripts that are the basis of today's New Testament! It was also the city "where Satan has his throne" (Rev. 2:13). Why did Jesus say this about Pergamum?

He may be referring to the altar of Zeus, which showed him defeating snakelike giants. This 45-foot high altar, was 800 feet up a hillside and stood over the city, looking "exactly like a great throne on the hillside." Jesus may have Asclepius, (uh-sklee,-pee-uhs) Greek god of medicine and healing in mind. Sick people from all over the Roman empire would come to his temple at Pergamum. There, worshipers would bow before a huge serpent and ask "Asclepius the Savior" to heal them. However, Jesus was probably referring to Pergamum's role as the regional seat for emperor worship. Each citizen was expected annually at the Emperor's temple, to burn a pinch of incense and confess publicly "Caesar is Lord." Of course, faithful Christians could not confess Caesar's divinity, so they were considered disloyal citizens and often suffered persecution and death. Being a Christian in Pergamum, or anywhere else in the Roman empire, was not easy! (Information on Pergamum from W. Barclay, Revelation, vol. l. pp.87-90.)

The Testimony for Which He Died!
Remember, Antipas was Christ's "witness" or martus (Rev. 2:13). The Greek word martus doesn't mean martyr, it means witness, one who testifies "to what he sees or hears or knows" (Vines). (Compare the KJV, ASV, NAS, and NIV in Matt. 18:16; Acts 22:20; Rev. 2:3; Rev. 11:3; Rev. 17:6). Can one be a faithful witness without becoming a martyr? (Matt. 24:14; Heb. 11:4; Rev. 11:3). However, we must always be prepared to suffer and die for what we believe, or our witness to Jesus becomes worthless (Rev. 2:10)! Antipas testified for Christ in life and in death because he was willing to die rather than deny the Lord! He suffered martyrdom simply because he was a Christian and so Jesus gave Antipas His own name, "faithful witness" (Rev. 1:5; Rev. 3:14). What then was the testimony for which he died?

Antipas Testified to the Person of Christ!
Christians believe that "Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God" and they confess this conviction "before men" (John 20:31; Matt. 10:32). Antipas knew that Jesus, NOT Zeus, defeated the "snakelike," "god of this world" (II Cor. 4:4; Rev. 12:9, 14-15; Rev. 20:2; Gen. 3:1-5, 15). When others looked to "Asclepius the Savior" he pointed them to the true "Savior" and healer of mankind (Titus 1:4; I Pet. 2:24). And while his neighbors proclaimed "Caesar is Lord," Antipas confessed Jesus as "(his) Lord and (his) God!" (John 20:28).

Antipas Testified to the Power of Christ!
Satan's power and influence brought tremendous pressures upon the Christians of Pergamum. The city was wholly given over to idolatry and all the vices of paganism flourished there. The temptation to follow the crowd and participate in idolatrous festivals, including the eating of the sacrificial meal and ritual fornication, was powerful (Rev. 2:14). Yet, Antipas found "power" in the grace of God to say "No to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly" in Pergamum (Rom. 1:16; Titus 2:11-12; II Pet. 1:3). In Christ, he found the strength to "resist the devil" and escape the lure of sin (James 4:7; I Cor. 10:13). His holy and courageous life, in the presence of powerful temptation and persecution, testified to the infinite "power" of God "at work within" him (Eph. 3:20; II Tim. 1:7).

Antipas Testified to the Presence of Christ!
Antipas other disciples testified for Jesus by their willingness to die for him. They could face persecution and overcome their fear of death because they had the peace, courage, comfort, and confident hope that comes from the presence of Jesus (Matt. 28:20; Acts 4:13; Heb. 2:15; II Tim. 4:6-8; I Thes. 4:13-18). About 150 years after Antipas, a Christian wrote, "Bassious is in the metal mines (slave labor), Malpalicus under torture, Fortunio in the dungeon. Paulus has been tortured, Victor and Julia were put to death in prison by hunger. In a few days you will hear that I have died the same." Another wrote, "the brave Saturnius, would not deny Christ even when they tore him with pieces of iron." (The History and Teachings of the Early Church)

Let us be like Antipas, a faithful witness for Jesus. May our lives also testify to the Person, Power, and Presence of Christ! Then the words of Rev. 12:11 will also apply to us.
[by Howard R. Birney from Seeking the Narrow Way, vol. 2, no. 3, Mar., 1995, p. 2-3]

MANY CONVINCING PROOFS: QUESTIONS ON THE FLOOD & THE ARK
Everybody who reads the Biblical account of Noah has questions about various aspects of the flood. This article will attempt to answer some of the most common questions.

What wood did Noah use to build the Ark? Many translations say "gopher wood," taken from the Hebrew word "goper," (Gen. 6:14) but nobody really knows. However, many scholars believe gopher wood is "cypress," (NIV) which was later used extensively in shipbuilding, by the Phoenicians because of its lightness, strength, and durability. We may not be sure of the wood used, but Noah was, and God directed him to use a wood suitable for the mission of the Ark (Gen. 6:18-19).

How long did it take Noah's family to build the Ark? We don't know for sure, but scripture suggests an upper limit of 120 years. This is based on the statement of Gen. 6:3, which may refer to the time remaining before the flood or to mankind's future longevity. However, scripture names many individuals, born after the flood, who lived much longer than 120 years (Gen. 11:13, 15, 17, etc.). This fact (for me) weakens the view that Gen. 6:3 refers to man's future life span. Therefore, the 120 years mark the period of God's "patience" when the "Spirit", through Noah, warned the disobedient of the coming flood, that some might "come to repentance" (I Pet. 3:18-20; II Pet. 3:9). Unfortunately, nobody listened!

How was Noah able to fit all the animals and birds on the ark? For example, there are over 200 different kinds of domesticated dogs today and that's just the dogs! The answer is in two parts.

* All of the varieties of dogs we have today came from the "dog kind" which God originally created (Gen. 1) and result from breeding within the dog kind. Noah didn't need to take hundreds of varieties, just two of the "dog kind." The same was true for every "kind" of animal and bird. He had to take two (or seven) of every "kind" - not species! (The Genesis "kind," is different from the biologists' "species" of today.)

* The size of the ark gave Noah plenty of room! The ark was about "450 feet long, 75 feet wide and 45 feet high" - if we use an 18-inch cubit. (The ancient cubit had a variety of sizes, from 24 to 17.5 inches long.) With its three decks (Gen. 6:16) the ark had over 95,000 square feet of floor space and a total volume of 1,396,000 cubic feet (using the small cubit)! That is the equivalent of 520 modern railroad box cars! Noah's ark could easily carry two of every kind of species of air breathing animal in the world today, and the five pairs of the few kinds of clean animals, Noah's family, and food for all with room to spare! (The Genesis Flood, Morris & Whitcomb, 1961, pp. 65-69.)

The ark was the "largest ship on record ever built until 1858!" Yet, we should not picture the ark as a typical ship with pointed bow, sloping sides and rudder. It was built like a barge to float upon the waters, not to sail (there was no shore to sail to). Also, the dimensions of the ark made it "exceedingly stable" and "almost impossible to capsize." (The Genesis record, Morris, 1980, p. 181.)

How did the various animals from different climates (like kangaroos and elephants) get to the ark? We must remember that Noah's world was probably quite different from the present world. The fossil record clearly shows the entire earth once had a tropical type climate. It also suggests that the animals were widely distributed over the globe. For example, camels and rhinoceros once lived in North America and elephants in Siberia! (See "Seeking The Narrow Way," Dec. 1994 & Jan. 1995, p. 3.) So, it seems reasonable to assume the various kinds of air-breathing animals, including kangaroos, lived on the same continent as the ark.

We must also point out that Gen. 6:20 makes it clear that God caused the animals, etc. to "come to" Noah. He did not have to go after all the various animals. The same God that "brought" the animals to Adam to be named (Gen. 2:19) also brought the animals to Noah that they might be saved.
[by Howard R. Birney from Seeking the Narrow Way, vol. 2, no. 3, Mar., 1995, p. 3-4]

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 a bit of sad psychology when dads are called "Jim, Peter, or Jack" by their children. When Spock, Freud, and William James have conspired to make dad a minor stockholder on the home's board of directors, when women's rights, civil rights, people's rights, children's rights and property rights have made it wrong for father 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 be understood. I shall try to understand why long hair when kept clean and trimmed, does not identify one as a hippy, or radical, any more than short hair identifies one as a clean, moral, upright citizen. But I shall not ape my sons. I will abide by an older distinction, when long hair was a fitting symbol of womanliness.

The young, may refer me to Samson, or to medieval pictures of Jesus, or to the powder wigs or braided locks of the fathers of our country... but I shall refer them to Paul, who said...(I Cor. 11:14).

When they tell it like it is, I'll 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 or 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 or request. Even if the weed is legalized and social "tripping" becomes as accepted as social drinking, it will not be accepted here.

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 hypocrisy. I ask them to help me change as children should, and to expect me to help them to change as I should in the methods expected of a parent. Others may look to the under 30 crowd for wisdom to throw away the past, and to say what will remain for future generations; others may let the offspring in the house determine the food, the music, and the spending of the household money, but I am going to stay a father.
[The Eastside Church of Christ Bulletin, Muskogee, OK - Paul Harvey via North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Dec. 5, 1993, p. 3]

WHATEVER HAPPENED TO "LEAVE IT TO BEAVER"
As a boy, I enjoyed coming in from school, and turning on the television, to rest my weary mind from my long day of studies. I remember relaxing to such great reruns as Leave it to Beaver, Father Knows Best, and My Three Sons, etc., all of which exemplified the best in quality entertainment and in extolling the virtues that make families, cultures, and nations great. I suppose, that if you search your TV Guide carefully, you may still find these programs, however, for most young people today they are tuning in to something else.

Recently, I heard of a cartoon on MTV called Beavis and ___Head (the name is so crude I will not print it in this bulletin). Obviously, because of my connection with the MTV generation and as a young gospel preacher, I became concerned and decided to do some investigating. This past weekend, the sordid music channel called MTV, held a Beavis and ____Head marathon. As I watched this garbage emanating from my television screen, I could not help but think of the new low MTV had descended to.

It constantly amazes me that while society bemoans our current cultural and social demise, the television industry seems bent on producing the ugliest and raunchiest programs that contribute to violence, sexual immorality, and shameful conduct. Certainly, Beavis and ____Head is such a program. In the August 1993 issue of Parental Guidance, a publication of Focus on the Family, editor Bob Demoss, Jr. speaks of a new warning label that would read as follows, "WARNING, the following program is a pointless waste of time, contains graphic stupidity and will explicitly insult your intelligence." Mr. DeMoss goes on to say "while many programs on television today would qualify, the first show to which I would assign this special sticker is MTV's Beavis and ___Head Show." I certainly concur.

These two bumbling idiots which are typified by their names, consistently use graphic, vulgar language to describe the most slovenly behavior. Many young people are constantly feeding their minds with this barrage of obscenity and think its "cool." When television promotes an image that condones abusiveness to others and rebellion against authority, those who are watching these programs will throw family values and wholesome living put the window. That is exactly what has been done.

The only way to attack these seemingly unending mediums of Satan's influence is to attack them with God's divine truth, the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (Eph. 6:17). Elders, preachers, parents, and youth workers must be aware of these enemies, who have overtaken what was once a great culture in America, and who seek to destroy the lives of our children.

Young people, remember the words of the Psalmist...(Psa. 90:12). Believe me, watching Beavis and ___Head is not inclining one's heart unto wisdom, as I quickly learned. After my mind and stomach could take no more of this hideous program, I turned my television off and decided I'll stick with Leave it to Beaver, or even the Brady Bunch, for that matter.
[by Barry Grider from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., Dec. 5, 1993, p. 3]

THE BIBLE HEART
A man thinks with his heart. (Gen. 6:5). Man reasons with his heart. (Mark 2:8). We love with our heart. (Matt. 22:36). We believe with the heart. (Rom. 9:10). Faith comes by hearing. (Rom. 10:17). Hearing is a mental process. The denominational world calls this "historical faith." They say what you believe about the word of God will send a "faith" - separate and apart from the word of God that they call "saving faith." That is simply a theological dodge to avoid what God says. God says there is only one faith. (Eph. 4:5). We understand with our hearts. (Matt. 13:15). We desire with our hearts. (Rom. 10:2). We think with our hearts. (Heb. 4:12). We purpose with our hearts. (II Cor. 9:7). Since we think, imagine, reason, believe, understand, and purpose with our hearts, how did anyone ever come to the conclusion that the Bible heart is a blood pump? If you had a heart transplant, and someone else's blood pump is given to you, would you have to be converted again? If not why not? But you say, "brother Wallace, I do not agree with you". That is all in your head is it not? If you want to change my heart why do you work on my head -- understanding? There is a lot of religion in the world that sets aside what God says for so called "inner leading". The Hindo, the Muslin, the idol worshipper feels just as good as you do. What is wrong with him? His heart (understanding, reasoning, faith, and thinking) need to be changed. Would you work on his head to change his heart? If not, why not! There is a lot of religion among us that borders on Voodooism.
[by G.K. Wallace from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 10, 1992, p. 3]

FORGIVEN
(Luke 7:37-38).
What kind of sinner was this woman? Imagination runs wild. I don't know. She repented. Jesus stated...(Luke 7:48, 50).
God forgives. Men often do not. Some will not forget. How many fingers were pointed at this woman years later as some pious individual informed another of her past indiscretions? Loose tongues cannot be stopped. Inquirer minds are society's cancer. We can only pray for them and thank God through Jesus that he forgives sins. He forgave ours, whether others do or not!
[by Ray Hawk from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., May 10, 1992, p. 3]

THE CHURCH'S WARFARE
(Eph. 6:10-20).
Sound the battle cry! See, the foe is nigh;
Raise the standard high for the Lord;
Gird your armor on, stand firm, ev'ry one,
Rest your cause upon His holy word.
Rouse then, soldiers! Rally round the banner!
Ready, steady, pass the word along;
Onward, forward, shout aloud, Hosanna!
Christ is Captain of the mighty throng.
Sound The Battle Cry

(Eph. 6:14). The identical Greek word "stand" (stete, Gk.), found in Eph. 6:14, is found only in one other passage of the Bible (Exo. 14:13). This word means "resist," and carries with it the idea that they (the Christians) have not yet started resisting, but are under positive command to do so.

It is obvious from the context that their ability to stand would be contingent upon their having put on the panoply (whole armor) of God. The arming of the Christian is now described in detail: "having your loins girt about with the truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness."

Truth and righteousness are both mentioned in Isa. 11:5 with reference to the Lord. Truth (alethia, Gk.) is not to be understood as the gospel message or the word of God in this text. The sword, later mentioned in Eph. 6:17, "is the word of God," so stated. "Having your loins girt about with the truth," pictures a belt about the waist, binding the soldier's tunic tightly to his body, giving him freedom of movement. Thus, the Christian soldier is to gird himself with the virtues of truthfulness, sincerity, and candor in relation to the objective truths of Christianity. Human traditions, man-made creeds, and vain philosophies will crumble under the stress of battle, but the word of God, believed and applied to one's life, will not fail!

The next article of battle gear Paul admonishes the Christian to put on is "the breastplate of righteousness." The figure of righteousness as a breastplate is found first in Isa. 59:17. The breastplate defends the heart and lungs, the vital organs of the man's thorax. In like manner, righteousness (dikaiosyne, Gk.) defends everything on which the man's spiritual existence depends. Righteousness is gained by doing...(I John 3:17; I John 2:29).

Remembering that the armor the Christian is to put on is God's armor, the righteousness man is to do is the righteousness of God. A man is clothed in the righteousness of God by walking in obedience. By walking in the way God has ordained, the Christian of necessity abandons his own self-righteousness, "for all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags" (Isa. 64:6).
Christian soldier, stand firm in the Lord. Begin today to gird your armor on; you'll be glad you did, in the heat of battle.
[by David Gibson from the Chapel Hill Courier, vol. 7, no. 17, May 12, 1988, p. 2]

HOW LOUD THE CRY
Have you taken time, when studying God's word, to listen to the "ouches" that are preserved for your reading? The Bible is full of illustrated outbursts of people in situations where they are desirous of someone's interests. Since the world began, cries have been heard, and the circumstances lend a different tone as to situations or problems.

Cries of despondency, despair, dejection, and demoralization are heard of those who followed Him. Please be sensitive to the wails and tones of the cries we will survey in the chosen texts.

The Cry Of The Pharisees
(Matt. 9:12). The Pharisees were questioning Jesus eating with the publicans and sinners. As a very wise teacher, Jesus answered, declaring that the publicans and sinners were sick, soul sick, and in need of a physician. The cries of the Pharisees were loud and penetrating to the ears of the merciful Saviour who said...(Matt. 9:13). Would a situation as this cause you to be like Jesus? Suppose someone confronted you as you were dining and teaching the gospel to the lost, saying, "You have no business to be with these people. What will people say about you? Can any good come from this visit?" You could reason, "Well, that may be true, so I'll just go home and not go back," or "These people do not know the truth and are void of scriptures! They are sick in sin and lost; therefore, I will teach them God's word and not lose this opportunity."

The Cry Of A Certain Ruler
(Matt. 9:18). Jesus proceeded to the house where death was seen by many mourners. As He approached the place where the funeral pageantry was begun, Jesus announced...(Matt. 9:24). The people "laughed him to scorn" (Matt. 9:24). They treated Him derisively with hurting ridicule. When anyone does you this way, you know they are making fun and laughing so as to ridicule. Jesus, picking up on this elementary and ignorant device of theirs, did not stop and yell, "Hear ye, stick around, and I will put your laughter on the other side of your face!" No! The scripture says...(Matt. 9:25). The fame of this event went abroad, as daily conversation among the people.

The Cries Of Two Blind Men
(Matt. 20:30). How fitting were their cries to Jesus who had said, "I will have mercy." The multitude was fretfully agitated by these monotonous insistent cries, and tried to get them to be quiet, but, they could not. Opportunities sometimes come only once, so they could not be restrained to stop their begging cries for help. It is a terrible thing to be blind. You have to recognize family and friends by voice, not sight. When Jesus heard their appealing cries, He stood still, and asked them...(Matt. 20:32). They said unto Him...(Matt. 20:33). Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes...(Matt. 20:34). Suppose Jesus had listened to the multitudes and continued walking. The two blind men would have remained blind, and Jesus would have had two less followers. It behooves us to "stand still" and listen to the needs of those around us. Jesus did not do all the talking, but listened to their reply. Suppose you are in a situation where you are teaching God's word, and someone comes bursting in unannounced saying, "A lady has fallen outside and is hurt." You could curtly say, "I have another point or verse to explain, so go tell her to call a doctor," or, you could think, "I happened to be here at the right time! Maybe a new contact can be made through the help I can administer, and I will be happy over the good deed I have done." May the Lord help us not to be so vain as to think of ourselves first in every situation, but be able to say, "I will do what I can now." We cannot give miraculous help, but as Jesus touched the eyes of the blind, we can lend our human touch and mercy in situations where help is needed. Interruptions can happen any time.

The Cry Of The Lord
(Matt. 27:45-46, 50). As I read this heart-rending love of the Saviour enduring all these blastful deeds, I am reminded that this scourging was suffered for me and you. The "thorned-crown" inflicted fierce and throbbing pain in His head. His aching, outstretched body, with dried spittle, on the cross, became a spectacle to the crying mob. No love can be described by mouth or pen that remained so pure to the very end of life as the love of Jesus Christ. He faced every good thing in life, every discouragement, entanglement, sacrifice of needed rest, trials, mockery, and even death with the most "pure in heart" attitude ever presented by mortal life. O To Be Like Him leaves us with a vast, working area in our lives. Oh, that we might recognize and admit the need for help, and humbly make that dedication to perfect the weak points. He will help us.

The Cries Of Today
Having listened to biblical examples of cries heard in Jesus' lifetime, let's listen to some cries we have in our own day. Crying is a part of our make-up, but should not be the end of things facing us. As a fever is indicative of something wrong in the body, cries are warning bells telling us that a problem is present. The alcohol and drug problems cause cries from families and communities. Just as the blind men sought help to restore their vision, be same helplessness of victims of drugs seeks a way of restoration to a full normal life. The frailties of the caregivers cause tears in that their own mortal bodies are not as strong as they should be to give the amount of physical attention needed.

Our recent world news brought bulletins of the Dow Jones investors of 1987. The financial markets from Tokyo to Australia were hitting bottom. Investors in worldly goods and pleasures screamed and cried, jamming telephone lines of communications with cries of despair. Many had entertained the thought of taking their own lives, in fear of facing the outcome. A real great crash in their lives! This special interest had been the old "everything to give, nothing to lose attitude." The cry of, "I've worked hard with long hours to build up fortunes for an easy climax of life." The cries of "what if," and "what am I going to do?" began to exercise the vocal cords of friends, businessmen, and communication wires across the country.

Is it wrong to work hard and be successful in business ventures? Not if we keep our heads on straight, so to speak. Priorities can be the proving ground of loyalties. Jesus expects Christians to be servants. The parable of the talents in Matt. 25 emphasizes the need to be busy and invest. In the book of Matt. 6:19-21, an admonition of greatest worth is called to our attention...(Matt. 6:29-30). In a nutshell, Jesus offers us spiritual interests that neither rust nor moth can destroy or the thief can steal from us. Build up investments of "study growth" by investing in Bible study, teaching God's word, and watching for sick souls. The work of Jesus in the church will be paid in eternal dividends. The servants in the church should use their talents, doubling, if possible, what they had in the beginning of the Christian life. This is real profit! To be watchful of our souls and others is the most precious work or investment on earth. It is more important than our money, friends, family, or jobs. All these things will perish in time, but the soul will live forever somewhere. Give of your best to the Master, and lay up treasures in heaven. Your relationship with God in this life will be the relationship you have with Him in the judgment. No "ouches" will be heard in that eternal city. There will be no need of policemen to stand guard over the heavenly reward. Do not neglect obeying the gospel. Hear and believe, repent of your sins, confessing the sweetest name on mortal tongues, that Jesus...(Matt. 16:16). Be baptized...(Matt. 28:19; Acts 2:38). This puts you into Christ. Upon entering Christ, God adds you to the church (Acts 2:47). You will be a "new creature" (II Cor. 5:17) in the service of God. Make things right with the church and your fellowman, if you have erred from your labor as a Christian. Protect your soul from eternal cries that will live throughout eternity, by listening to the cries around you today. In the sweet bye and bye, your voice will not carry cries of despair, but the song of praise to "Him" who provided the final dividends.
[by Louise R. Kughn from the Chapel Hill Courier, vol. 7, no. 17, May 12, 1988, p. 2-4]

THE CHURCH'S WARFARE
(Eph. 6:10-20).
Stand then in His great might,
With all His strength endued;
But take, to arm you for the fight,
But take, to arm you for the fight,
The panoply of God.
Soldiers Of Christ, Arise
Paul encouraged his readers to put on the panoply, a complete suit of armor, of God (Eph. 6:10-12). This spiritual armor is to be donned that the Christian might stand against the realm of "darkness" (Col. 1:13) that is opposed to the "light" (Eph. 5:8), which is in "the kingdom of His dear Son" (Col. 1:13).

(Eph. 6:13). "Wherefore" is the apostle Paul's way of impressing upon his readers the application of his previous statements. In effect, he says, "Having now considered the strength and tenacity of the adversary, take unto you the whole armor of God." The enemy of the soul is truly a strong adversary. His strength and determination can only be resisted by one who has put on the entire armor of God.

God's army is a volunteer army; no on is drafted. It is not an army of "slackers" and "goldbrickers," but one composed of courageous soldiers, mighty men and women of valor. Each soldier, has been provided a full armor that they may be victorious over their adversary, the devil. Yet, many Christian soldiers fall in battle, defeated. Why? Because they have foolishly dispensed with part of the battle gear, thinking it needless, or they carelessly enter into battle forgotten it. The armor of God is available to every enlistee, but it must be diligently put on, and this "putting on" does require effort.

The purpose of this armor is "that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day." To "withstand" (antistenai, Gk.) introduces a stronger idea than "stand" (stenai, Gk.) previously mentioned. To "withstand" means to set oneself against, oppose, or resist (Arndt & Gingrich). Having already been warned of the "wiles of the devil" (Eph. 6:11), we are to be "set for a defense of the gospel" (Phili. 1:16), ready to "contend earnestly for the faith" (Jude 3).

The Christians are to do this withstanding "in the evil day." Many varied explanations have been offered as to the identity of this "day." Some suppose it to be the "day of the Lord," or the Battle of Armageddon, but neither of these answers are appropriate. The "day of the Lord" (II Pet. 3:10) is spoken of as a day of joy (I Thes. 4:16-17) for the Christians, not a day of evil. The Bible nowhere makes mention of "The Battle of Armageddon," literally or figuratively. "The evil day" is best understood as the day of trial, temptation, and opposition each Christian experiences as he takes up his cross daily and follows after Jesus (Luke 9:23).

Paul's optimism shows as he exhorts the victorious Christian "having done all, to stand." This is a military phrase and is best understood, "having conquered all, stand." Paul never contemplates the possibility of the Christian's defeat who has put on the panoply of God.
[by David Gibson from the Chapel Hill Courier, vol. 7, no. 16, May 5, 1988, p. 2]

DARE WE BE COWARDS?
(John 12:48).
The past eight weeks, we have noticed three different groups in our study. They were: 1. preachers; 2. elders; 3. members. We haven't exhausted all that could be noticed about each, but for our consideration at this time, we want to notice everyone, the world as a whole, and contemplate how we must conduct our lives in order to be able to stand in that last great day before the One who will judge us before God.

Are the words in John 12:48 the words of Jesus? We all know they are. Let us consider the things written in Mark 16:15. Are these the words of Jesus? Yes, they are. What is the difference between "the word" of John 12:48, and "the gospel" of Mark 16:15? There is none; they are both the same thing. Since the word that Jesus has spoken is the word that will judge us, and since the gospel was to be preached to every person, what does our believing and obeying the gospel do for us? In Rom. 1:16, Paul says this.... The gospel, then, is what we must believe, and obey, to be saved.

There are commands given in the gospel that we must first believe, then obey, in order to be saved. I heard a preacher for a denomination that is located in our city refer to the "Old Testament" and the "New Testament." In that, he is right. The new testament is the gospel of Christ. There are so many examples given in the old testament that would prove that one must believe, then obey, in order for God's will to be accomplished. Two examples we will use: 1. Jonah 3:5-8; 2. II Kings 5:8-14. Let us now ask a question. When was Ninevah spared? When was Naaman cured of his leprosy? Was it when each believed? Or, was it after believing, when they obeyed? There is no one, probably, who would say that, at the point of faith Ninevah was spared, or Naaman was cured. Why? Because God's word is plain in its explanation of the events that occurred.

We read from Mark 16:15 earlier in this discussion; we now want to notice Mark 16:16. According to this verse of scripture, when is one saved? After he believes and is baptized. But, someone will say, "No, it is when one believes, because it says, 'He that believeth not shall be damned.'" Let us notice the example of Naaman. (Possibly you have heard your preacher state that leprosy is representative of sin.) When was Naaman cleansed of his leprosy? Was it when he believed, after those with him convinced him to obey, or was it after he obeyed? Every one knows it was after he obeyed. If he had refused to dip seven times in the Jordan, would he have been cleansed? No, he would not. How about you who are reading this article now? Have you obeyed the command of the Lord Jesus, stated in Mark 16:16? It could not be any more plain. We are to believe the gospel of Christ, and be baptized for the remission of our sins (Acts 2:38), at which time we are saved. It will be these words that will judge you at the final judgment. Don't be a coward, and hold to family and friends who are teaching things contrary to the gospel of Christ. Dare we be cowards?
[by Howell Lasseter from the Chapel Hill Courier, vol. 7, no. 16, May 5, 1988, p. 2-3]

SOLOMON'S DEFINITION OF A GOOD TEACHER
(Eccl. 12:9-12).
What are some of the characteristics of a good teacher? Who among us are truly qualified to take on the tremendous responsibility of imparting the teachings of our Lord to others? What are some of the attitudes and actions of a teacher approved by God? Usually when we ponder such questions, we turn to Paul's statement to Timothy instructing him to "entrust to FAITHFUL men, who will be able to teach others also," the Good News. The ability to teach others, and faithfulness to God and His Word, are without doubt two of the greatest qualifications of a godly teacher.

However, in Eccl. 12:9-12, Solomon gives us eight additional qualities of a good teacher that we would all do well to seriously consider, qualities that if implemented in our lives and teaching, can make us more effective in the Kingdom of our Lord.

1. Wisdom. Specifically: the wisdom that utilizes knowledge to the benefit of others. Some accumulate knowledge for personal gain or status, others impart knowledge so that the lives of those around them may be enriched. He who is truly wise imparts the knowledge of God to others (Prov. 11:30).

2. The good teacher "ponders; weighs carefully, thinks deeply about; meditates over" the subject matter at hand. The good teacher also weighs his/her conclusions very carefully so that they are in accord with the Word of God. Psa. 119 emphasizes this concept of meditation upon Truth quite well.

3. The good teacher also "scrutinizes; searches out; studies" the subject matter to be taught. Classes are not taught "off the top of the head," or with last minute preparation, or worse; none at all! Diligence and study are both needed if we are to...(II Tim. 2:15).

4. The effective teacher also arranges, or sets in a logical order, the materials to be presented to the class. It is not a "hit or miss," or poorly thought out and arranged, presentation. It is logical, orderly and effective.

5. Good teachers will also choose their words carefully, and attempt to present their information in a way that will hold the listener's attention and interest. Their teaching will be gracious, stimulating, and edifying.

6. At the same time, however, they will not detract from the Truth itself. Truth will be conveyed accurately, plainly, and fully. The presentation of God's Word need not be dull and lifeless, but at the same time it need not be embellished with gimmicks to try and "bring it to life."

7. The lessons of a good teacher will be like "goads" and "firmly embedded nails." They will prod people into paying attention, pursuing Truth and taking action. In other words, they will be motivating. They will also "nail things down" and make sense. A good teacher motivates the students, and also presents the subject in a way that makes sense to them.

8. Finally, the good teacher places the scriptures and the writings of mere uninspired men in their proper perspectives. Excessive devotion to the thoughts and writings of men can be a wearying experience, not to mention it shifts the focus from where it rightly belongs: The Word of God. The insight of others may indeed be helpful and enlightening at times, but the good teacher realizes that in the "school of life" the best "textbook" of all is the Bible, which is given to us by the "one Shepherd."
[by Al Maxey from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 14, 1992, p. 3]

WE ARE OUR BROTHER'S KEEPER!
Back at the dawn of man's existence, Cain asked: "Am I my brother's keeper?" The reply of the centuries has been an absolute: "Yes, Cain, and all others, you are your brother's keeper. Because you are your brother's brother."

Imagine a family with several children. One child doesn't come home from school one day. How would the family react? Would they hold tightly to the remaining children and talk about how glad they were to still have them? No! They would immediately begin an intense search until they found the child.

God is equally concerned when even one of his children strays away from the family. He doesn't want to lose any! He paid too high a price for each soul. But, God makes his search for wandering sheep through his people. He expects you and me to be concerned in this search and involved in it.

So, it is our responsibility, not only to stay on the program, to stay in faithful touch with Jesus Christ, but also to work with him in reclaiming and reaching and encouraging others in the way of Christ. We are our brother's keeper. So, we need to pray for one another, encourage one another, and set the right example before each other.

We should ask God to help us to have a loving concern not only in living the Christian life, but also in encouraging others to do so.
[by Joe Goodspeed from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 28, 1992, p. 3]

WEEDS AND A RUSTY HOE
There are two things in my garden I don't want there: weeds and a rusty hoe. Once I begin using the hoe again, both the rust and the weeds will disappear.
The same principle is true in our spiritual growth. The Bible is the "sword of the Spirit." The more we study God's Word and put it to use in our lives, the more "weeds," or unwanted things, we'll get rid of. But once we stop studying the Bible, or when God's Word is no longer active in our lives, the sword becomes rusty, and sin takes over.
Jesus was able to overcome every temptation by saying, "It is written," and then quoted from the scriptures.
We are never too young or too old to study the Bible. It is the great weapon that God has given us to overcome sin. It is a precious gift that we can all take with us through eternity. Don't let it get rusty!
[by Dick Cupp from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 28, 1992, p. 3]

IF I HAD MORE, I'D...
The statistical abstract of the United States, published by the U.S. Department of Commerce, is full of all sorts of information about us. The 1991 edition was recently published.
I saw some figures from it the other day that I thought were interesting. They told how much of our income was used for "charitable contributions."
In the table below, various ranges of income are on the left. The percentage given to charity is on the right.
0 - $10,000 5.5%
$10,000 -$19,000 3.2%
$20,000 - $29,000 2.9%
$30,000 - $39,000 2.6%
$40,000 - $49,000 1.8%
The table is not complete. All levels of income are not included, but there is a disturbing pattern.
It seems that many of us who say. "If I had more, I'd give more" find ourselves practicing a lifestyle that says, "When I get more, I keep more."
[by Jim Faughn from North Jackson Ave. church of Christ newsletter, Bartow, Fla., June 28, 1992, p. 3]

BURIED DYNAMITE
In 1974, three teenage boys somehow managed to get hold of 22 pounds of dynamite. They must have been very excited at first, but the thrill soon turned to worry. How do you get rid of 22 pounds of dynamite? Secretly they buried it only three inches deep in a vacant lot near a shopping mall.

The dynamite rested quietly for four years, but one of the trio did not. He could not escape the thought that some day some innocent person might be hurt by what he had done. He had now become a man, and he decided to try to correct his mistake while there was still time. He reported the situation to the fire department, and with his help, they located the dynamite. They very carefully dug it up and later destroyed it.

Can you imagine how much better that man rested that night? When we have wronged someone, we are tempted to cover it up with excuses or bu