.: Church Of Christ :.

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2012-02-16T11:10:00.001-06:00

Why ME? | Tiffany Malone

Devotional

2012-02-16T11:08:00.000-06:00

If Jesus Couldn't, Why Do We Think We Can?
by Steve Higginbotha,
Wooddale Church of Christ

Expectations have much to do with our contentment.

Those who place unrealistic expectations upon themselves are generally discouraged, and feel as though they are a failure.

I’m convinced that if people had proper expectations, they would not be so soon moved to discouragement, depression, and despair.

An obvious step to “reeling in” our expectations is to understand the fact that “if Jesus couldn’t do something, we need to stop believing we can.

Consider:

Jesus couldn’t make his own family believe that he was the Son of God (John 7:1-6), so why then do we beat ourselves up for sometimes failing to do the same?

Jesus couldn’t avoid sadness and sorrow (Isaiah 53:5), so why do we sometimes act as though we expect life to be a bed of roses?

Jesus couldn’t go without rest (Mark 6:31), so why do we feel guilty if we aren’t on the go 24/7?

Jesus couldn’t avoid making enemies (John 15:18), so why are we so surprised when people hate us for our faith?

Jesus couldn’t cause all men to repent (Matthew 23:37), so let’s be content with our best efforts. We can’t obey for others.

Jesus couldn’t even forgive all men of their sins though he was willing (John 8:24; Luke 17:3), so why do we think we can forgive those who will not repent?

Maybe the first step to contentment is in shedding the guilt that comes from the unrealistic expectations we place upon ourselves.

After all, if Jesus couldn’t do it, why do we think we can?

Question of the Day

2012-02-16T10:59:00.005-06:00

Does praying for someone negate their exercise of free will?

Topic(s): Prayer
Todd Clippard

Yours is a very difficult question. All men do indeed possess free moral agency. But I'm not sure how praying for an individual would supplant or interfere in the exercise thereof. For example, when I pray, I pray for what is best for an individual. At the same time I pray for God's will to be done in all things. I think it best to pray that an individual will act in accordance with God's will, instead of praying for a specific course of action.

So long as we pray for what is best for an individual, and pray for understanding and the courage to accept God's will, I believe we ought to pray for others. In 1 Timothy 2:1-5, we are commanded to pray for our leaders that we might live quiet and peaceable lives. I don't think this is an attempt to usurp their free moral agency, any more than praying for myself is an attempt to have God intervene without my personal exercise of free moral agency.

Part of the difficulty is not knowing HOW God works in the lives of men. I believe prayer changes things, and I believe God works in the lives of men. However, it is difficult, if not impossible, for me to immediately point to any specific event and say, "This is the providence of God." An older, wiser, preacher-friend of mine once told me, "Always wait at least 15 years before crediting God with anything." What he meant was that sometimes we give God credit for things that end up hurting us in the long run, when our own poor decisions are the cause of the difficulty.

[ SOURCE ]

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2012-02-14T13:33:00.000-06:00

Let The Spirit of The Lord

Chris Turner

Upcoming Events Around the Brotherhood

2012-02-06T15:39:00.002-06:00

Youth Revival

Where: Missouri City Church of Christ

2019 Bright Meadows Drive

Missouri City, TX 77489

When: February 5-8, 2012

Time: 7pm Nightly

Theme: "Reaching a Generation for God"

Guest Speaker: Bro. Freddie Anderson

______________________________________________________________________

City-Wide Lectureship

Where: Kashmere Gardens Church of Christ

4315 Leffingwell St.

Houston, TX 77026

When: February 12-17

Time: 7pm Nightly

Theme: "Divine Provision for Present Day Problems"

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2012-01-31T14:54:00.002-06:00

All Away | Southside Singers

Food for Thought

2012-01-31T14:51:00.000-06:00

Sometimes it's nice to just say "thank you" as opposed to asking for something.

Ask any parent out there.

It's nice when a child will come to a parent not with any ulterior motive, not to ask for anything, but to just say "thank you." Usually, the parent will give something just for the simple fact their child showed a bit of appreciation.

But if a child is always asking for things like they're parent is supposed to give into their every desire and they don't know how to be thankful, soon enough the parent will get tired and will stop giving into their every single selfish want.

Same can be applied to our Heavenly Father.

If the only time we go to Him is when we want something, sooner or later, He won't listen.

We should learn to be thankful for what we have.
We should learn to just go to Him sometimes and just say "thank you."
Not because we want something, but because of how good of a Father He is to us,
and because of how good a Father He will continue to be.

If we learn to gain a spirit of thankfulness as opposed to a spirit of "wantfulness" (yes, I invented a word ..lol) watch and see how our Father will shower us with so many things we won't be able to receive them.

Think about it...
- B.

Food for Thought

2012-01-27T12:42:00.000-06:00

1 Corinthians 3:6

King James Version (KJV)

⁶I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.

Just like back in Bible times, this still stands true today; God can't give the increase to anything unless we do our part.

Many of us complain about how people aren't coming to worship anymore. We say how there aren't as many people coming and seeking Christ as there were back in the day.

Well, ask yourselves, have we done our part?

Have we reached out to those we haven't seen in a while?
Have we walked the neighborhoods spreading the good news of Christ and inviting people to worship?
Have we lived our lives as examples to those we are around?

We're expecting God to work a miracle but that's not going to happen.

He expects us to do our part, then in His own time and way He'll give the increase.

Look at it this way.

You want to plant a rose garden, so what do you do?
You buy the soil, seeds, and water like you're supposed to;
eventually, roses will bloom.

Do you think you'll get the same result if you just walk outside and say,
"Now look here, I wanna see some roses, so start blooming!"

Doesn't work that way.

If we want the Lord's church to grow by leaps and bounds, we need to do something.
If we want to reach more people, we have to go out and do the work.

You want God to move?

Step out on faith and watch Him show up and show out!

Think about it
- B.

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2012-01-13T08:45:00.000-06:00

Live It On Up In Glory - Friends in Christ

Question of the Day

2012-01-13T08:30:00.000-06:00

Will those who never hear the gospel be lost?

Bob Prichard

Topic(s): Evangelism, Nature of Man, Salvation

Gods loves all people. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance<. He desires that none should perish, But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up (2 Peter 3:9-10).

Even in our day of sophisticated communications, many live and die without hearing the saving gospel of Christ. Some reason that a loving God will save those who have no chance to receive or reject the gospel. Christ said, however, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned (Mark 16:15-16). He made no distinction between those who openly reject His gospel, and those who have not heard.

Paul warned that Jesus and His angels shall be revealed, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power (2 Thessalonians 1:8-9). Vengeance is on them that know not God and that obey not the gospel.

Paul asserted that because of the evidence of creation men should know God and are thus without excuse. However, Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator. Because the heathen world rejected God and worshipped the creature rather than the Creator, God gave them up unto vile affections (Romans 1:20-26). If God will save the heathen in their sins, rather than from their sins, then Jesus died in vain. God would save ALL in their sins. Peter said, however, there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12). If the heathen are not really lost, why did Christ command, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15)?

Since all must obey the gospel, each who hears and understands should obey the gospel immediately, and work to share the gospel with the world. Paul warned, the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead (Acts 17:30-31). David warned, The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God (Psalm 9:17). Our lost world needs the gospel of Christ.

[ SOURCE ]

Devotional

2012-01-13T08:15:00.000-06:00

Life is a one-time Shot
By: Tom Smith,
Wooddale Church of Christ

James 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.

So often, we get bogged down in the day to day activities of life, we lose sight of not only its' brevity, but the fact life is a one-time shot.

I hate to break the bad news to those who buy into the complete stupidity of reincarnation, but we were created in the image of God for this one and only journey called life.

When it is over, we will have an eternal home, either with our creator, if we come to know His Son Jesus Christ by faith, or eternally separated from our Creator if we reject Christ.

The point I want to drive home today is that this is it.

This is our life.

This is not a dress rehearsal, there are no do-overs, we need to make the most of this time God has given us.

It is human nature not to think much about death, our own mortality.

We tend to dwell on it more as we get older, since it becomes more of a reality.

As we go through life, we see our grandparents die, our parents, other family members, friends, and those we know pass away. At those times, we are reminded that we too will one day die, though we try not to think about it very long.

In addition to being reminded at times how brief life is, we often pause at different points to see where we are in life, look back to where we have been, and look ahead to where we want to go.

Again, as we get older, we become aware that this time on earth, this life, really does pass quickly.

It is at these times of reflection when it becomes apparent how much of our life we squander and don't take advantage of.

Remember this: today is a day like none other, and when it is gone, it is never coming back.

Take the time needed to reflect on your life today.

Take the time to see where you are at, and where you want to go.

Look at those things in your life each day that are positive, and those that are negative.

The fact is, life is short.

Only God knows when our time here is over.

We have no control over that.

What we DO have control over is how we use each day.

I don't care where you live, what ethnic background you are, what your social or financial status is, the one thing all of us have in common is 24 hours.

Nobody gets a second more or a second less.

How we use that 24 hours becomes the key decisions we must make each day.

God has a perfect plan and purpose for your life.

Allowing that plan and purpose to unfold each day is the challenge we all face.

Life is a one time shot.

We won't get another chance.

Make the most of each and every day God gives you.

It is your life, the only one you will get, so make the most of it.

Scripture of the Day

2012-01-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

Romans 8:32

He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all--how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2012-01-12T08:45:00.000-06:00

Where The Soul Of Man Never Dies

To Canaan's land, I'm on my way,
Where the soul of man never dies.
My darkest night will turn to day,
Where the soul of man never dies.

No sad farewells. (Dear friends there'll be no sad farewells.)
No tear dimmed eyes (There'll be no tear dimmed eyes.)
Where all is love, (Where all is peace and joy and love.)
And the soul never dies. (And the soul of man never dies.)

The rose is blooming there for me,
Where the soul of man never dies.
And I will spend eternity,
Where the soul of man never dies.

No sad farewells. (Dear friends there'll be no sad farewells.)
No tear dimmed eyes (There'll be no tear dimmed eyes.)
Where all is love, (Where all is peace and joy and love.)
And the soul never dies. (And the soul of man never dies.)

Question of the Day

2012-01-12T08:30:00.000-06:00

If I have sinned or fallen away after becoming a Christian, should I be baptized again?

Todd Clippard

Topic(s): Christian Life, Salvation, Forgiveness, Prayer

As a Christian, one need not be baptized again to receive forgiveness. You must be willing to repent of your sin, confess it to God, and ask for forgiveness.

Simon the Sorcerer was a Christians who tried to buy the gift of the Holy Spirit. Peter told him to repent and pray for forgiveness (Acts 8:9-22).

John said if we (Christians) confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from ALL unrighteousness - 1 John 1:9.

When Christians walk in the light, they enjoy fellowship with God and fellow Christians, and Jesus' blood cleanses them from all sin - 1 John 1:7. This means we will sin even though we are doing our best. What is important is to recognize that we do sin and be ready to repent whenever necessary.

You need to trust in God and His promise to forgive. God can and will forgive any penitent Christian.

[ SOURCE ]

Devotional

2012-01-12T08:15:00.000-06:00

The Cross of Christ
(Part Two)
By: J. Raymond Pecoraro, Wooddale Church of Christ

In Part One of this article on the cross of our Lord, I discussed the meaning of the cross to believers. I wrote that the cross means love and peace. I would like to continue this line of reasoning for your perusal. It is the sincere prayer of the Wooddale Church of Christ that all of our articles in some small way able to lift you to a higher plain, both in encouragement & in your spirituality!

Let us continue:

3. The Cross means Life: The idea that life could come from death was reason for unbelievers to scoff at the cross. (I Cor. 15). Again Paul stated, “And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.” (Rom. 1:4). The gospel brings us back to life from the dead. We were all dead to sin and it was God’s plan to redeem us from the “wages of sin’ via the cross. Paul is a great example of the change in his life that the cross made. He wrecked havoc upon the Lord’s church & placed Christians in prison for practicing their faith. (Acts 8:3; I Tim. 1:13). “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life.” (I John 5:13). Paul suffered for the cause of Christ (II Tim. 1:12) but he did it proudly. He said, “For me to live is Christ, & to die is gain.” (Phil. 1:21).

4. The Cross means Victory: The cross is the means for our victory over Satan. God told Satan, “He (Christ) shall bruise thy head (devil); thou (devil) shall bruise His (Christ’s) heel.” (Gen. 3:15). The devil bruised the heel of Christ by crucifying Him upon the cruel cross where Jesus gave His life for the sins of the world. But when Jesus broke the bonds of death through His resurrection from the dead, Satan was delivered a blow to his head that he cannot ever recover! The wages of sin is death (Rom. 6:23), but by the grace of God He (Christ) “tasted death for every man.” (Heb. 2:9; See I Cor. 15:57). We have the victory in Christ Jesus. He tasted death for every person!

There are no “crown wearers” in heaven that were not “cross bearers’ here on earth! Make no mistake about this, friends. The problem is that most people want a padded, light weight, comfortable, and inconspicuous cross to bear! Jesus said in Luke 9:23, “If any man will come after me, Let him deny himself, & take up his cross daily & follow Me.” (Read Hebrews 10:29).

In conclusion, what does the cross mean to you?

Does it mean foolishness to you?

Or does it mean “Love of God, Peace with God & self, Life in the hereafter, & Victory through Christ?”

The choice you make today will determine the answer to these questions.

God is served in action; not mere words!

Footnote:

What was the physical reason for Christ’s death?

Recent medical studies have sought an answer to this age old question.

When a person is suspended by his two hands, the blood sinks rapidly into the lower extremities of the body. Within six to twelve minutes blood pressure has dropped by 50 percent, while the rate of the pulse has doubled. The heart is deprived of blood & fainting follows. This leads to an orthorastic collapse through insufficient circulation.

Death by crucifixion is due to heart failure.

Victims of crucifixion did not generally succumb for two or three days.

Death was hastened by the “crucifragium” or “the breaking of the legs.”

When they came to Jesus & saw that He was dead “already, they break not his legs”(John 19:33). Sometimes a fire was built beneath the cross so that the fumes might suffocate the sufferer. Among the Jews, a stupefying potion was prepared by the merciful women of Jerusalem, a drink that Christ refused. (Mark 15:23). To such a death, the One who was Co-equal with God descended. (Phil. 2:5).

We know what Jesus the Christ did for you, now what will you do for Jesus the Christ?

If you have not summited your will to the Will of the Father in heaven, then the question begs for the answer …why not, dear friends?

Heaven is a prepared place (John 14:1-6) for a prepared people. (Gal. 3:26, 27).

It is never too late to render obedience to the Lord!

One day it will be too late!

Scripture of the Day

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

Psalm 119:165

Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2012-01-11T08:45:00.000-06:00

The Great Redeemer

How I love the great Redeemer
Who is doing so much for me;
With what joy I'll tell the story
Of the love that makes men free.
Till my earthly life is ended,
I will send songs above,
Then beside the crystal sea
More and more my soul shall be
Praising Jesus and His love.

(He is ev'rything to me to me)

He is ev'rything to me,
And ev'rything shall always be;
I will never cease to raise a song of gladness in His praise;
Here, and in the world above,
My soul shall sing of saving love;
Life and light and joy is He,
The precious friend who died for me.

Glory be to Him forever!
Endless praises to Christ the Lamb!
He has filled my life with sunshine,
He has made me what I am.
O that ev'ryone would know Him,
O that all would adore!
O that all would trust the love
Of the mighty Friend above
And be His forever more.

(He is ev'rything to me to me)

Question of the Day

2012-01-11T08:30:00.000-06:00

Does each person have a particular appointed time to die?

Bob Prichard

Topic(s): Death, Eternity & Judgment, Time

Many believe that since He is all powerful and all knowing, God takes people at their appointed time to die, and there is nothing that man may do to change or affect this. This concept of fate is not biblical, however. According to Greek mythology, there are three goddesses, or fates, who determine the destiny of men, and men have no control over the course life will take. People express the idea of fate as they say of someone who has died, It was just his time to go, or It was her time to die, nothing could be done for her, and she would have died no matter what anyone did.

There is no question that death is inevitable for all people, but the inevitability of death does not mean that either the fates have determined a particular time for individuals to die, or that God has predetermined a particular time when He has ordained a person must die. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation (Hebrews 9:27-28). These verses do not teach that man has a fateful, specific appointed time to die, but that death is inevitable for all mankind, and just as surely as death is inevitable, judgment must follow. The key is for each person to prepare for the judgment by accepting the salvation offered by God through the sacrifice of Christ.

The false idea of a predetermined fate conflicts with the teaching of scripture that each person has the free will to choose how to live, and whether to respond to God's will. God chooses to love and redeem us. He has free will. We, created in His image (Genesis 1:27), also have free will. John writes, Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law (1 John 3:4). Since man sins and separates himself from God by choosing to transgress the law, he also has the free will to choose righteousness. The actions of others may influence when we die, but we have much control over when we will die. If we choose to risk our lives by abusing alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, speeding on the interstate, or engaging in other risky behavior, then we take our lives into our own hands. Along with the free will He gives us, God also makes us responsible for the consequences of our actions. He doesn't just take us [kill us] at some time He has appointed. We can choose to live as we should.

Since no one knows when he or she may die, each person needs to be ready to die at any moment. Paul recognized that in his service as an apostle, he had to be ready to die. For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men (1 Corinthians 4:9). He was ready to accept this death sentence, because he had already committed all he had to Christ. He said, I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me (Galatians 2:20).

[ SOURCE ]

Devotional

2012-01-11T08:15:00.000-06:00

The Cross of Christ
(Part One)
By: J. Raymond Pecoraro,
Wooddale Church of Christ

What does the Cross mean to you?

To the people 2000 years ago, it meant shame!

The cross was one of the cruelest forms of execution ever devised by mankind.

The Greek word “STAUROS” means “A CROSS” or “THE CRUCIFIXION.” Another Greek word “SKOLOPS” means “A STAKE” or “A POLE.” We get our English word from the Latin word “CRUX.”

There are at least four different forms of the Cross:

1. Crux Immissa: (Matthew 27:37). This is the type of cross that the Saviour was crucified upon.

2. Crux Commissa: (T-shaped cross or also known as St. Anthony’s cross.

3. Crux Decussata: (X-shaped cross or also known as St. Andrew’s cross.

4. Greek Cross: The two pieces of wood are equal in length.

The use of the cross as a form of punishment was adopted by the Greeks & Romans from the Phoenicians, Persians, & Carthaginians. This was a barbarous form of death! The Romans used it for noted criminals because they thought the public display of torture would prevent insurrection & further crimes. The cross meant that “a criminal got just what he deserved!”

In Gal. 3:13, Paul said, “Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, curseth is every one that hangeth upon a tree (cross). (See Deut. 21:22, 23 … all under the law are under condemnation for violating it). Before we can begin to understand what the cross means to us, we must first see what it meant for Jesus! (Remember that Jesus was labeled a malefactor & a blasphemer by His accusers although He was innocent).

The agony of the crucified victim was brought about by a number of factors:

1. The victim literally died a 1000 deaths while upon the cross!

2. The pain from the wounds inflicted by the metal spikes driven through the hands & feet was unbearable!

3. The abnormal position of the body would make the slightest movement excruciating!

4. Suspension upon the cross would cause high fever as well as the heat from the hot sun!

5. The blood would rapidly drop into the lower extremities of the body within 6 – 12 minutes by 50%!

6. The pulse rate doubles; the heart deprived of blood causes fainting & then death!

7. Death would come as a final result of severe heart failure. It normally took 2-3 days to die, so death by “crucifragium” i.e. “the breaking of the legs” was done on the individual!

8. In Mark 15:23 we read where Jesus refused to take any stupefying portions that could help in dulling His pain! In Matthew 27:23, Jesus cried: “My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me!”

The Hebrew writing stated, “Looking unto Jesus the author & finisher (perfector) of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, & is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Heb. 12:2). When the apostles came preaching “Christ & Him crucified; the world considered it foolishness. (Cp. Luke 10:21). And that a dead man could save others when he couldn’t save himself would be ridiculous enough, but to preach that an executed criminal is really “God made flesh” would really be preposterous indeed! Therefore the unbeliever considers the preaching of the cross foolishness at best. The Jews detested it because how could one accused of God be their “Messiah.” But Paul said to the believer that it is ‘the power of God unto salvation.” (Rom. 1:16).

Paul certainly wasn’t ashamed to preach it!

Let us look at some characteristics for which the Cross means to believers:

1. The Cross means Love: In John 3:16, Jesus said, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever beleiveth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” The Hallmark Card Company’s motto is “When you care enough, you send the very best.” This is exactly what our Heavenly Father did … He cared enough that He sent the very best gift He had to make the ultimate payment for our, not His, but our sins! John stated, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, & sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” (I John 4:10; Cp. Eph. 5:2).

Illustration:

None ever came as far as He,

None ever bore such agony,

None ever gave as liberally,

As Christ who died for me.

No love so great has e’er been known,

No grace so vast was ever shown,

No blood for sin could e’er atone,

But Christ’s who died for me!

2. The Cross means Peace: Paul tells us that the Prince of Peace went to the cross that we might have peace “through the blood of His cross.” (Col. 1:20). The Jewish & Gentile races can now be at peace with each other because of the cross! “For He is our peace, who hath made both one … to make in himself of the two one new man, so making peace; and that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby.” (Eph. 2:14-16; See Isa. 59:1, 2). And mankind now has the same privileges concerning eternal life. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you.’ (John 14:27).

Illustration:

The geographical heart of London is Charing Cross. All distances are measured by it. This spot is referred to simply “as the cross.” A lost child was picked up one day by the London police. The child was unable to tell them where she lived. Finally, in response to the repeated questions of the officers, & amid her sobs & tears, the little girl said, “If you will take me to the cross I can find my way from there.”

The cross is the point where mankind can become reconciled to God. If we find our way to God & our heavenly home we must first come to the cross! “I must needs go home by way of the cross, there’s no other way but this; I shall ne’er get sight of the gates of light if the way of the cross I miss.”

Scripture of the Day

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

Isaiah 2:22

Stop trusting in mere humans, who have but a breath in their nostrils.

Why hold them in esteem?

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2012-01-10T08:45:00.000-06:00

Salvation Has Been Brought Down
Jesus gave His life a ransom yonder on Calvary.
On Mount Calvary, cruel Calvary.
Paved the way by blood
That we might win a bright shining crown.
Praise the Lord! Salvation has been brought down.

Chorus:
Praise (the Lord) the Lord (blessed Lord),
Salvation has been brought down.
Go (and shout) and shout (go and shout),
And tell it to the world around.
Tell it today (to people in sorrow).
Tell it today (and tell it tomorrow).
Preach the word of God
That we might win a shining crown.
Tell (the lost) the lost (all the lost) salvation is full and free.
Spread (the news) the news (blessed news)
All over the land and sea.
Tell it afar (in every nation).
Tell it afar (all over creation).
Praise (the Lord) the Lord (blessed Lord),
Salvation has been brought down.

All alone without a friend, He suffered to pay it all.
Yes, He paid it all, Jesus paid it all.
In His blessed promises sweet victory can be found.
Praise the Lord! Salvation has been brought down.
Chorus:
Praise (the Lord) the Lord (blessed Lord),
Salvation has been brought down.
Go (and shout) and shout (go and shout),
And tell it to the world around.
Tell it today (to people in sorrow).
Tell it today (and tell it tomorrow).
Preach the word of God
That we might win a shining crown.
Tell (the lost) the lost (all the lost) salvation is full and free.
Spread (the news) the news (blessed news)
All over the land and sea.
Tell it afar (in every nation).
Tell it afar (all over creation).
Praise (the Lord) the Lord (blessed Lord),
Salvation has been brought down.

There's a blessed home prepared way over in Gloryland
In bright Gloryland, blessed Gloryland.
I have trusted in His love and now I am Heaven bound
Praise the Lord! Salvation has been brought down.

Chorus:
Praise (the Lord) the Lord (blessed Lord),
Salvation has been brought down.
Go (and shout) and shout (go and shout),
And tell it to the world around.
Tell it today (to people in sorrow).
Tell it today (and tell it tomorrow).
Preach the word of God
That we might win a shining crown.
Tell (the lost) the lost (all the lost) salvation is full and free.
Spread (the news) the news (blessed news)
All over the land and sea.
Tell it afar (in every nation).
Tell it afar (all over creation).
Praise (the Lord) the Lord (blessed Lord),
Salvation has been brought down.

Question of the Day

2012-01-10T08:30:00.000-06:00

What about ordaining ministers? How does one know if he's been called into the ministry?

Topic(s): Bible Study, Christian Life, Church

Todd Clippard

This is a difficult question to answer due to all the religious confusion surrounding the terms ordain and called.

The word "ordain" is never used in the New Testament in reference to preachers or ministers of any type. In Titus 1:5 it is applied to the selection of elders according to the qualifications given in that chapter. It is used in 2 Peter 1:10 in reference to all Christians being diligent in making their calling and election sure, which brings me to the second point.

The word call or calling is not used in any sense of God appointing someone to a particular work. All men are called to God by the preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14). Men answer that call by obeying the commands of the gospel (Acts 2:36-41). One's calling may be used to refer to various things:

1) his lot in life when he becomes a Christian -- 1 Corinthians 7:27-24

2) the exalted lifestyle demanded of a Christian - Ephesians 4:1-3;
Philippians 3:13-14; 2 Timothy 1:9; 1 Corinthians 1:26

All Christians are commanded by God to be teachers of the gospel (Matthew 28:19-20). The early church went everywhere preaching the word (Acts 8:4). We would do well to abandon all denominational terminology and call Bible things by Bible names, and do Bible things in Bible ways.

[ SOURCE ]

Devotional

2012-01-10T08:15:00.000-06:00

The Lord Asks,
“Do You Love Me?”

By: Bill Bryant, Wooddale Church of Christ

Have you ever truly hurt someone so deeply that it caused tremendous anguish afterwards?

If so, then you can perhaps identify somewhat with Peter following his denial of the Lord.

The Lord had told an arrogant Peter that he would deny Him three times, but Peter would not believe Him.

But he did (Matt. 26:69-75).

It would be hard for us to imagine the mental anguish that Peter had to endure as he witnessed the events surrounding the crucifixion of the Lord as a coward. When the initial report of the Lord’s resurrection came from Mary Magdalene to the disciples, the first response by the disciples was of disbelief (Luke 24:10-11).

But Peter wanted so very much to believe in her report (Luke 24:12).

Immediately following the resurrection, the disciples were given the message to go to Galilee (Matt. 28:1-10). But the Lord met most of the disciples that same evening and again eight days later (John 20:19ff.). Then the disciples left for Galilee to meet the Lord again (John 21:1-2).

Can you imagine Peter’s thoughts and concerns?

I’m sure he went down “Memory Lane” often of his time with the Lord.

There had been a lot of “highs and lows” in his time with the Lord. But the lingering thought in his mind was what the Lord was going to say and do with him.

Did he have a future with the Lord in the coming kingdom?

Would the Lord soon pull him over to the side and have the “talk” and let him know that he would be better off back in Galilee fishing and supporting the movement locally?

What and when would “it” happen?

Most are aware of the amazing result.

The Lord asked Peter a probing question about his true love for Him, but the end result was forgiveness and the charge to “tend to and feed His sheep” (John 21:15-17).

Peter would never forget this lesson on forgiveness.

Unlike the world, we are not demoted to a far lesser place, placed on a spiritual probation and consigned to medial work for years to come when the Savior forgives.

We still have important work to do and the Lord knows that the tremendous gratitude that comes from this kind of forgiveness can be a tremendous motivation for us and those sinners down the road who hear our story who are also seeking desperately true forgiveness (I Tim. 1:12-17).

Are you seeking the kind and measure of forgiveness the Lord granted Peter?

It remains there for you.

Seek it, learn it, and then respond in loving obedience to the greatest kind of forgiveness the world could ever know – the one that Jesus, the Son of God offers.

The Lord is still asking, "Do you love Me?"

Do you?

Scripture of the Day

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

Matthew 6:19-21 NIV

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2012-01-05T14:04:00.004-06:00

We Don't Need No Music - Straight Company

Question of the Day

2012-01-05T14:02:00.003-06:00

Should a woman be a pastor?

Topics à Church, Bible Study, Women, Worship

Todd Clippard

There are three issues that need to be addressed in your question.

First, we need to define what the Bible calls a pastor. Once this is done, it will answer the first part of your question, "Can a female be a pastor?". Then we will address the final part of your question, which really pertains to the subject of female preachers. This will be a fairly lengthy discussion, but one that is certainly necessary to a proper understanding of the Scriptures in this matter.

I am a preacher in Marion County, Alabama. Hardly a week goes by that I do not receive at least one call asking, "Are you the pastor?" I generally respond, "No, I am the preacher." This sometimes confuses the caller, but because they usually have some business to discuss, they ignore my reply and go on.

You may be wondering, "If you are the preacher, then why aren't you the pastor?" The answer is simple; the Bible never refers to a preacher as being synonymous with being a pastor. I know this confuses many because the religious world has erroneously conceived the idea that the preacher is "in charge" of the church. What does the Bible say about pastors? Who may be rightfully called a pastor? These are the questions that must be answered first, and then the answer to your question will be evident.

The word "pastor" is found only once in the King James Bible (Eph 4:11). It is translated from the Greek wordpoimane. However, a verb form of the same Greek word is elsewhere translated "feed" (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2). In these contexts, it describes a function of the eldership. This concept is also foreign to most of the religious world, but we shall shed some light on it later in this article.

In Acts 20:17, Paul called the elders of the Ephesian church to meet him in Miletus. In that meeting he gave the following charge in verse 28, "Take heed to yourselves, and to all the flock, over which the Holy Spirit hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God which He hath purchased with His own blood." "Feed" is the verb form of the same Greek word translated "pastors" in Ephesians 4:11.

In 1 Peter 5:1, Peter gives an exhortation to the elders. In this exhortation is the command to "feed the flock of God which is among you" (1 Peter 5:2). "Feed" is the same as that appearing in Acts 20:28. Thus, the charge to feed or pastor the flock (local church) is given to the elders, and not to the preacher. Now we must answer the question, "what is an elder or pastor?"

The word "elder" is translated from the Greek word presbuteros. Of this word, Vine's dictionary says these "were appointed to have the spiritual care of, and to exercise oversight over, the churches. To these, the term "bishops," or "overseers," is also applied (Acts 20:17, 28; Titus 1:5-7)." Paul writes of a bishop and elder as being synonymous in Titus 1:5-7. For a man to serve as an elder (or bishop), he must meet the qualifications given in the scriptures, specifically 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. Notice I said "a man." One of the qualifications for elders, or pastors, is that he must be the "husband of one wife" (1 Tim 3:2; Titus 1:6). This excludes women from serving in this capacity.

Also, one never reads in the Bible of one man "pastoring" a church. Each congregation was always overseen by a plurality of elders (Acts 14:23, Acts 20:17; Philippians 1:1; Titus 1:5; Hebrews 13:7, 17; 1 Peter 5:1).

In reference to elders, Paul told Titus he left him in Crete to "set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city, as I had appointed thee" (Titus 1:5)According to scripture, a congregation without elders is lacking.

Finally, women should not serve as preachers or church leaders. The Bible reserves the role of leadership in the church (and in the home) to men. A key text in this discussion in 1 Timothy 2:8-15. The apostle Paul wrote in 1 Timothy 2:8: "I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting" (NKJV).

This is the first of several verses delineating the varying roles of men and women in the local body. This particular discussion ends at the conclusion of 1 Timothy 3. (The discussion in chapter 3 also includes the qualifications given for bishops/elders and also for deacons. These qualifications restrict these God-given roles to men.)

The word "men" in verse 8 is gender specific, coming from the Greek aner or andras (Strong's #435). Thayer's Lexicon identifies the word as being "with a reference to sex, and so to distinguish a man from a woman" (p 45). It also has bearing on the maturity of the male, and is used in Matthew 15:38 to distinguish a man from a woman (gunaikos -Strong's 1135) or a child (paidion - Strong's 3813).

In verse 9, Paul begins with, "in like manner also," a reference back to the holy hands i.e., pure lives and motives, of verse 8, "that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works." So Paul makes a clear distinction between men and women.

Now to verses 11-12 -- "Let a woman learn in silence with all submission. And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence." The phrase "usurp authority" in the KJV implies something different than the text actually teaches. The silence in 1 Timothy 2:11-12 is to be carried out "with all subjection." Subjection comes from a Greek compound meaning "under appointment" (Strong's 5293). It is by the appointment of God that women are to learn in silence in the assembly, neither are they at liberty to exercise authority over men in the assembly.

What follows is a specific and in-depth discussion of the silence demanded of women in the public assemblies of the church. I think you will be interested to study this.

To the Corinthians, Paul wrote, "Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says" (1 Cor 14:34). Though this is a different word for silence than is found in 1 Timothy 2:11, they are nonetheless the same though their relationship to Divine appointment. In 1 Corinthians, a woman's silence is said to be with submissiveness in connection with the Divine instruction of the Law, but which law?

There is no specific Mosaic injunction for women to keep silence. In 1 Timothy 2:11, her silence is connection with the Divine order of creation and the fall of man (vv 13-14). Thus, one should understand the silence commanded in the law is a reference back to Genesis 2-3, and 3:16 in particular.

A quick look at silence in 1 Corinthians 14:28, 30, and 34. The demand for silence in 1 Corinthians 14:34 is not absolute. It must be understood contextually. The Greek word translated silence in verse 34 appears three times in the chapter (vv 28, 30, and 34), and nowhere indicates absolute silence. Rather, the word must be understood in its immediate context.

In verse 28, one who is speaking in a different language is to keep silence if there is no interpreter. The silence regulates his public speaking in a tongue, but not from speaking in a tongue understood by all present. In verse 30, if one prophet is speaking and another sitting nearby receives a word of prophecy, the first is to keep silence (hold his peace) while the second speaks. And in verse 34, the woman is to keep silence in such a way so as not to go beyond her authority. This is consistent with Paul's inspired restriction placed upon women exercising authority over men in 1 Timothy 2:8-15 (cf vv 11-12).

In answer to your question, there is no authority for a woman to be called a pastor because only men can serve in that capacity, and because only men are authorized to teach and preach in the public assembly.

[ SOURCE ]

Devotional

2012-01-05T13:51:00.005-06:00

Past, Present, Future
by Tom Smith, Wooddale Church of Christ

Philippians 3:14-17 "I press toward the goal. . . . Brethren, join in following my example.

In his painting "An Allegory of Prudence," the 16th-century Venetian artist Titian portrayed Prudence as a man with three heads. One head was of a youth facing the future, another of a mature man eyeing the present, and the third, a wise old man gazing at the past. Over their heads Titian wrote a Latin phrase that means, "From the example of the past, the man of the present acts prudently so as not to imperil the future."

We need that kind of wisdom to overcome the anxiety created by our past failures and the fear of repeating them in the future, an anxiety that can keep us from enjoying life to the fullest right now.

Paul was able to "forget" his past and anticipate his future (Phil. 3:13-14). This doesn't mean that his memory was erased; it means that because God had forgiven him, Paul was free of any guilt he may have felt from his past. As he lived in daily fellowship with Christ, trials could only make him more like his Savior. So he had one driving passion--to know Christ better.

As we close out the chapter of 2011, let's rededicate ourselves to Christ in 2012 and follow Paul's example.

Jesus will enable us to live fully in the present as we gain wisdom from the past and face the future with courage.

Never let a bleak past cloud a bright future.

Scripture of the Day

2012-01-05T13:47:00.002-06:00

Luke 12:6-7

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2012-01-03T17:28:00.003-06:00

Old Church Songs | Committed

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2011-11-15T13:20:00.001-06:00

Give It To Jesus | Southside Singers

Devotional

2011-11-15T13:18:00.000-06:00

The Church Name

by: Tom Smith, Wooddale Church of Christ

It is common to hear people speak of "my church" or "your church" as they speak of a particular religious group.

Such terminology suggests to many that the church is just an organization which man devised for his own needs. Thus, if society and custom change man can alter the church to fit those needs.

From this kind of thinking comes a "justification" for "many churches" so that the needs of various people will be met. Then we are urged to "join the church of your choice," with the implication that all churches are equal in the sight of God and only personal preference should govern your decision about choosing a church.

But whose church is it, anyway?

Did God say nothing in His word about the church?

Did Jesus never address the subject?

Did the apostles refuse to teach on the subject?

Anyone who has even casually read the Scriptures knows that the Bible has much to say about the church. If we are to learn the value (or lack of it) of the church, we must go to the Bible to find it.

When Peter confessed to Jesus, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God," the Lord replied, "Upon this rock I will build my church " (Matt. 16:16-18).

Founders of this nation made America a great nation, a founder of a business often determines the value of the business.

So it is with the church of which we read in the Bible.

Jesus Christ is the builder of it, He founded the church.

Man has since built many churches, and we can easily agree that these are not really important. But that church which Jesus built is important, simply because it is built by God's "only begotten Son."

The word "church" literally means, "called out."

Peter writes, "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light" (1 Pet. 2:9). Christ has called us "by the gospel" (John 6:44-45; 2 Thes. 2:13-14), out of sin and into righteousness (Rom. 1:16-17; 2 Cor. 5:21). Those who respond to His call through the gospel (Mark 16:15-16) are "the called out" or "the church." That means the value of the church is determined by the value of the call, and the One who calls is Lord of those who are called.

The churches which have been begun by men are usually governed by synods, councils, conventions or some other such organization in which men determine the course of that church. But when He gave the "great commission" to the apostles, Christ said, " All authority hath been given unto me in heaven and on earth " (Matt. 28:18).

Jesus doesn't share His headship over the church with man.

Notice again, "He is the head of the body, the church. ..that in all things he might have the pre-eminence" (Col. 1:18).

Paul wrote that God has "put all things in subjection under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things to the church, which is his body" (Eph. 1:22-23).

Man might govern his own church, if he had the right to have one.

But it is not up to a man, nor to a group of men, to govern the church of Christ, for only Christ is head of it and only Christ has authority over it.

Scripture of the Day

2011-11-15T13:01:00.000-06:00

Galatians 5:13

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2011-11-11T12:38:00.000-06:00

Sometimes | Chris Turner

Devotional

2011-11-10T13:35:00.000-06:00

Thy Will Be Done

by Tom Smith, Wooddale Church of Christ

The whole Christian journey for those who obey Christ can be boiled down to one prayer.

It was that prayer Jesus prayed in the Garden after eating with his disciples.

At the end of his prayer, He said these words. "Not my will, but thy will be done".

In our day to day walk with Christ, those 8 words sum up what our life in Christ is all about. Not our will, but HIS will.

The fact is when we accept Christ and obey, the Bible says that it is no longer our life any longer.

We have surrendered our life to Him.

It doesn't belong to us any more, it belongs to Him.

It is no longer our life to do with as we please, but is now HIS life to do with as HE pleases.

This is the one big element of the Christian journey so many never understand, and it is why so many Christians live unfulfilled lives. This is also the reason why so many, after being baptized into Christ, backslide and end up in the same traps, the same bondage as before they were saved.

When a person acknowledges Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, there is not only a spiritual work that is done, but that spiritual work then must translate into the real day to day life of that person.

A newly saved person needs a seasoned Christian to help them understand that their life is now different, to walk with them in those early days of their Christian journey, to help them in their new walk with Christ. Whereas before they did exactly what they wanted, how they wanted, when they wanted, that is no longer the case. Their lives now belong to the Lord. It is no longer what they want to do, but what God wants them to do.

Of course this change does not come overnight.

It is a process.

Day by day, week by week, month by month, year by year.

Spending time in the Word, in prayer.

The act of dying to self is something we all must do daily.

We can never forget whose life it now is.

Each day we must be open to what God is wanting to do in our life.

He has a plan and purpose for each one of us.

However, we can block that plan and purpose by imposing our will over His. That is our God-given freewill choice. But in doing that, we not only miss out on so many blessings, but forfeit the peace, joy and abundance this life can offer since that is only known when we are in His perfect will.

God, who came to this earth as a man sacrificing His life on the cross for the sins of the world.

God confirming all Christ said and did by raising Him from the dead.

From the night prior to His death, we get the greatest example of all about what the Christian life is all about. Being totally yielded to the will of God in our life. Setting aside our will for God's will.

My friend, there is no better place to be than in the will of God.

He loves you.

He cares about you.

This is where our faith is put to the test.

Faith is believing God can and will do exactly what He promised in His Word.

We spend so much of our life trying never to have to see if it really works. But there will come times when you have nothing else but your faith in the Lord. Those are the special times in life when we put our faith to the test.

He won't let you down.

He loves you too much.

Christ, throughout His life was the perfect example of how to live this life.

Just hours before His life was to end, he gave us this incredible lesson that really sums up our life as Christians.

The surrender of our will for God's will.

I have to admit, it is by far the hardest lesson to learn.

We become so good throughout our life in doing it "our way".

It is the ultimate act of surrender.

However, let me assure you that your way will never be better than His way.

Today, let this simple 8 word prayer be your prayer today...."not my will, but thy will be done".

Question of the Day

2011-11-10T13:20:00.000-06:00

Should God get the "credit" when bad things happen?

Todd Clippard

Topic(s): Christian Life, God's Will, Pain & Suffering

We are to be thankful in ALL things, good and bad. Consider the following scriptures:

"In every thing <give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." 1 Thess 5:18 KJV

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." Phil 4:6 KJV

"Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Eph 5:20 KJV

When men succumb to and suffer for sin, God cannot be blamed for such, "for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither does He tempt any man" (James 1:13). Four verses later, James writes, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights."

Some things, both good and bad, happen through no credit or fault of our own. Some things happen because of the laws of nature (tornado, flood, etc). Some things happen due to sins of others (death at the hands of a drunk driver, etc). We must trust that the will of God will be done in all things.

[ SOURCE ]

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2011-11-10T13:12:00.000-06:00

Answer My Prayer | ACAPPELLA

Scripture of the Day

2011-11-10T13:09:00.000-06:00

Acts 20:24

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2011-11-07T15:39:00.003-06:00

Nothing Too Hard For God | Southside Singers

Question of the Day

2011-11-07T15:13:00.001-06:00

Does it really matter why one is baptized?

Bob Prichard

Topic(s): Baptism, Salvation

The second chapter of Acts describes the beginning of the Lord's church almost two thousand years ago on the day of Pentecost.

Hearing Peter's words, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38), they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls (Acts 2:41). According to Acts 2:47, the Lord added to the church daily such as should be [or, those who were being] saved. Thus the Lord added three thousand people to His church as they obeyed the teachings of the apostles by being baptized.

While the administrator of baptism is unimportant, the purpose in baptism is of the utmost importance. Anyone properly baptized, as those three thousand were on the day of Pentecost, is added unto the Lord's church. A person baptized for the wrong purpose, however, has no assurance that the Lord will add him to His church. For example, if a man was baptized simply because his wife wanted him to be baptized, and he made no real commitment to the Lord, then the Lord certainly would not add that man to His church, because pleasing or obeying a wife is not the Lord's purpose in baptism. We see, then, that it is important to know and understand the Lord's purposes in baptism.

Jesus commissioned his disciples, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned (Mark 16:15-16). The purpose of baptism, then, as stated by Christ, is to save the believer. Scriptural baptism then, is preceded by belief in Christ. Peter told those gathered on Pentecost, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38). So Peter said that the purpose of baptism of the penitent believer is for the remission (forgiveness) of sins.

Ananias commanded Saul of Tarsus, And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord (Acts 22:16). Here again the purpose of baptism is stated, to wash away sins. Paul declared to the Galatians, as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ (Galatians 3:27). Thus baptism puts the obedient believer into Christ, where there is salvation. Peter compared baptism to Noah's ark, saying, The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 3:21). Peter clearly said, baptism doth also now save us. The scriptures show that baptism is an immersion in water for the forgiveness of sins, upon which the Lord adds that penitent and obedient believer to His church. A baptism administered merely as a denominational ordinance to those who have already been saved, or to a child that is unaware of the significance of baptism, does not fit the New Testament pattern for baptism.

[ SOURCE ]

The Book of Life

2011-11-07T15:09:00.001-06:00

by J. Raymond Pecoraro, Wooddale Church of Christ
“And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, & the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life.” (Phil. 4:3).

These words are from the pen of the great apostle Paul.

This article is about God’s Book of Life where He records the faithful because He knows that they are His people.

There are many books in the world.

In fact, Solomon said, “that there is no end to book making.” (Eccl. 12:12).

There are works of fiction, novels, technical books, self-help books, textbooks, and many, many more covering almost any subject imaginable!

But the greatest, best-selling book ever written is the Bible.
It contains answers to life's simple and most complex questions ever asked by man! (II Tim. 3:16, 17).

Through the ages there have been legions of people who tried to dispute the validity of the Bible, yet to no avail!

In Luke 2:1-5, Joseph & Mary were required by Roman law to register for taxation! Courthouses have large books containing the name of its citizens who own property, pay taxes, owe taxes, births & deaths. The government records the census of all citizens of the U.S.A. Paul tells us that our citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20). Therefore the Christian’s name is written in God’s “Book of Life.”

The Heavenly Registry: “Notwithstanding, in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:20).

The early disciples had the ability to work miracles & they thought this was great. They rejoiced because they had this power over the serpents, scorpions, & even their enemies. (V.17). Yet Jesus said it was a greater blessing to have your name enrolled in heaven! Paul’s challenge to “rejoice in the Lord: always immediately follows the statement about the “Book of Life.” (Phil. 4:4).

Whose Names Are Enrolled In Heaven?
“But ye are come unto mount Sion, & unto the city of the living God, the Heavenly Jerusalem, & to an innumerable company of Angels. To the general assembly & church of the first born, & to God the Judge of all, & to the spirits of just men made perfect.” Heb. 12:22, 23 …the Redeemed).

The triumphant of the church of the Lord:
1. Those “called out” of the world (Ekklesia).
2. People who belong to God. (I Cor. 1:2).
3. People who are sanctified (set apart from the world). (I Cor. 1:2).
4. Those who are “in Christ” …God’s children through baptism. (Gal. 3:26, 27).
5. People who are called by the gospel. (I Cor. 1:2).
6. Those who “call upon the name of the Lord. (Rom. 10:13-17).

“He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; & I will not blot his name out of the Book of Life, but I will confess his name before My Father, & before His angels.” (Rev. 3:5).

Paul said, “For I am now ready to be offered, & the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” (II Tim. 6, 7).

We must keep the commandments of the Lord & our names will be there come Judgment Day!
Make no mistake about this, friends!

The Tragedy Of Not Having One’s Name In The Lamb’s Book of Life:
“And whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.” (Rev. 20:15).

There won’t be any computer errors come the judgment!
God is the Divine bookkeeper. (Read Daniel 12:1-3).

All jokes about heaven will cease because it won’t be funny.

In John 11:25, Jesus said, “I am the resurrection, & the life: he that believeth in Me, though he die, yet shall he live.”

If you haven’t yet made preparations to have your name written in God’s Book of Life, there may not be a better opportunity than now!

“One day when heaven was filled with His praises,
One day when sin was as black as could be,
Jesus came forth to be born of a virgin,
Dwelled among men,
my Example is He.

Living He loved me,
dying He saved me,
Rising He carried my sins far away.

One day He is coming,
O Glorious Day.”

When the roll is called up yonder, will you hear your name?
Heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people!

Scripture of the Day

2011-11-07T14:56:00.004-06:00

James 1:2-18

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.

Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.

Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2011-11-02T14:15:00.000-05:00

No Greater Love | The Soul Influence

Devotional

2011-11-02T14:13:00.000-05:00

I Need Patience to be Patient
by J. Raymond Pecoraro

I remember the time I spent in ministerial school as I studied to be a gospel preacher. It seemed that the time to graduate was in the distance …far distance.

I had to learn patience before I could learn anything else.

But we all see impatience on a daily basis, especially if you have small children!

They want things now!

They want to know when we are going to get there if we are traveling!

They are constantly asking if we are there yet & it seems they ask every five minutes or so!

But as we get older, we learn patience, maybe just not to the extent we would like too.

Our timeless Lord requires that we learn to be patient as our faith increases.

Delays & trials for the things we really want or really need are worth the waiting.

Waiting helps to develop patience and as we add patience to God’s virtues we get better!

It is a marker that we are growing into mature Christians.

Time is the source for our faith to mature!

And a wise Christian isn’t shy about asking God to grand him patience.

The Psalmist stated, “Out of the depths I have cried to You, O Lord; Lord hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. If You, Lord, should mark my iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with You, That You may be feared. I wait for the Lord, my soul waits. And in His word I do hope. My soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning. O Israel, hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is mercy, And with Him is abundant redemption. And He shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.” (Psalm 130:1-8).

If we look at the brighter side of waiting, we will understand that many prayers go up to our Father during the interim of our waiting!

We have many examples of patience in the Old Testament alone:

1. Jacob waited seven years for a wife & then he worked another seven years after her father tricked him. (Gen.29:15-20)

2. The Israelites waited 400 years for deliverance to come their way.

3. Moses waited 40 years before God called upon him to rescue God’s people from Egyptian bondage.

4. Moses also waited 40 more years for the Promised Land, of which he could not enter.

“My soul waits for the Lord more than the watchmen wait for the morning.” (Ps. 130:6).

The image depicted here of the watchmen would be they are nearing their shift’s end & they are counting the minutes before they can return home!

We ought to pray for patience that is needed so we may be able to handle the difficult times.

We must never become discouraged & give up!

We must keep on hoping, anticipating, believing because the patience God grants unto us will ultimately see us through.

The joy that crosses our faces when we have what we waited for is now come to fruition is beyond explaining!

The great prophet Isaiah in the Bible book by his name has one of my favorite sayings, “Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run & not be weary; they shall walk & not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31). I have this verse inscribed on a pedestal with a brass eagle sitting proudly & majestically on top. Every time I see it & read the inscription of Isaiah 40:31, I am reminded of the patience I must constantly pray for & put into practice!

We must constantly be reminded that God seldom does great things in a hurry!

But these great things from God far exceeds the waiting period.

The most valuable thing that should never be put off is one’s salvation!

The Bible tells us “today is the day of salvation; now is the acceptable time.”

Christ died for our sins by shedding His precious blood upon the cross.

The Gospel is the answer (the only answer) for anyone to receive eternal life.

(Romans 1:16; Luke 13:3, 5).

Scripture of the Day

2011-11-02T13:57:00.001-05:00

Psalm 121

I lift up my eyes to the hills-
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

He will not let your foot slip-
he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

The LORD watches over you-
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.

The LORD will keep you from all harm-
he will watch over your life;
the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore..

What's Cooking?

2011-10-28T15:47:00.001-05:00

(source)

Question of the Day

2011-10-27T10:33:00.003-05:00

Since the Devil can't be everyone at once, does he use demons to tempt people?

Todd Clippard
Topic(s): Eternity & Judgment, Satan, Hell

In 2 Corinthians 4:4, the Devil is described as "the god of this world." Other scriptures giving similar designations are: John 12:31; John 14:30; John 16:11; Ephesians 2:2; and Ephesians 6:12.

We are warned to "be sober, be vigilant, because our adversary, the Devil, as a roaring lion roameth about, seeking whom he may devour" 1 Peter 5:8. This confirms the devil cannot be all places at all times. However, this is not to say he commands his minions to do his bidding around the world. Demon possession is no longer a reality in today's world (Zech 13:2).

The influence of the devil is found everywhere. When one chooses not to do the will of God, there is only one other who is left to be served, and that is the devil (Romans 6:12-18). When we sin, it is not demons messing with out minds. We all have free will, and God always provides a way of escape when we are tempted to sin (1 Cor 10:13).
At death, all souls go the hadean world (Luke 16:19-31). It is here they reside until the Day of Judgment (Rev 20:12-15). Disembodied spirits ("ghosts") do not roam restlessly around the world.

[ SOURCE ]

Devotional

2011-10-27T10:29:00.001-05:00

Doubting Thomas, Really?
by Steve Higginbotham

How would you like for me to survey your entire life, pick one of your weakest moments, and choose to identify from that point on by that moment?

I don't think any of us would want this done to us, but it may precisely be what we have done with the apostle, Thomas.

We are very familiar with the doubts that Thomas expressed in John 20 when he said that he needed to see the wounds in Jesus' hands and side to believe he had resurrected.

However, what we fail to consider is that Thomas was not the only unbelieving apostle. Jesus abraded all the apostles for their unbelief following his resurrection and had them all examine his wounds.

That being the case, why don't we ever refer to doubting Peter or doubting John?
Why just pick on Thomas?

There was much more to Thomas than his moment of doubt.

In fact, in John 11, when the other apostles were hesitant to follow Jesus, it was Thomas who boldly spoke up and encouraged the rest to follow Jesus to their deaths!

No, there was much more to Thomas than his moment of doubt.
He was more than a doubter, he was a hand selected, faithful apostle of Jesus Christ.

Next time you're tempted to dismiss a co-worker, an acquaintance, or a fellow church member that you witnessed having a "bad moment," be fair with them.

Don't measure their entire life by their one act of weakness.
Give them the opportunity to redeem themselves.
After all, doesn't the "Golden Rule" demand such? (Matthew 7:12).

Scripture of the Day

2011-10-27T10:13:00.002-05:00

Psalm 119:160

All your words are true; all your righteous laws are eternal.

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2011-10-26T13:06:00.000-05:00

The Right Church?

2011-10-26T12:59:00.002-05:00

(photo credit: here)by Tom Smith, Wooddale Church of Christ
This is a good, timely question.

Many "church-goers" today do not even consider the rightness or wrongness of their religion. They belong to a particular church because such is convenient or they simply "like it."

Not many are looking for a "scriptural church" today.
They want a church to satisfy their own desires.

Many of the current denominations do not even claim to go by the scriptures. In fact, they advertise their modernism and "any-thing-goism."
They believe churches which do submit to Jesus authority are "out-of-date" and legalistic.

Notwithstanding Jesus church submits to his headship (Eph. 1: 22,23, Matt. 28:18).
This means the right church does what the scriptures teach (2 Jn. 9-11).
She is designed by a scriptural designation (Rom. 16: 16), teaches the true plan of salvation (Jn. 8:24, Acts 17:31, Rom. 10:10, Acts 2:38), and worships God in spirit and in truth (Jn. 4:24).

I kindly challenge you to take God’s word and find the right church.

You can easily eliminate modernistic, liberal, selfish churches and clearly establish the identity of the Lord’s church, by using God’s word.
Be a member of the Lord’s house and not Man’s (Heb. 3:1-6).
Enjoy answered prayer, the cleaning of Jesus blood, and heaven for an eternity (I Jn. 3:22, 5:11).

Remember, "Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up" (Matt. 15:13).
Jesus said this regarding false religions (Matt. 15: 1-14).
Come out of Babylon (false religion) and bask in God’s truth which will make you free (Rev. 18:3,4, Jun. 8:32).

Jesus built his church (Matt. 16:16, Acts 2:47).
He built only one (not denominations, teaching different doctrines, Eph. 4:4-6, 1:22,23).
Jesus shed his blood for his church (Acts 20:28).
Hence, it behooves us to be part of Jesus church, the right church.

The scriptural church had its beginning in Acts 2, A.D. 30, on the first Pentecost after Jesus resurrection.

It was to this church the Lord added the saved (Acts 2:47, 5:14).
Local churches (congregations), in New Testament days, were governmentally independent one of another. Each local congregation, ideally, possessed its own elders (Acts 14:23).
These elders only had oversight in the local congregation where they served (I Pet. 5:1-2). In other words, there was no denominational structure.
These local churches believed and taught the same thing (I Cor. 1:10).
This is because there was only one faith, the doctrine of Christ (new Testament, Eph. 4:4; 2 Jn. 9).
They taught a plan of salvation for the alien consisting of faith, repentance, confession and baptism for remission of sin (Jn. 8:24; Acts 17:30; Rom. 10:9,10; Acts 2:38).
The overseers or elders, to whom we have referred (always a plurality), met certain qualifications found in I Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9.
The early church guarded the purity of the truth, not fellowshipping those who taught error (Eph. 5:10,11; 2 Jn. 9-11).
The Lord’s church withdrew from members who did not live right (2 Thes. 3:6).
Early churches did not wear human names (see Romans 16:16).

One can employ the process of elimination to simplify the search for the scriptural church.

There are churches today which are scriptural, but you must "seek" (Matt. 7:7,8; Jn. 7:17).
The true church has a spiritual mission and is genuinely interested in assisting you in spiritual matters (I Tim. 3:15).

Why not find the church today which corresponds to the First Century church?

Scripture of the Day

2011-10-26T12:46:00.002-05:00

Psalm 116:1-2

I love the LORD, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2011-10-24T14:30:00.000-05:00

He's My Joy | Chris Turner

"What do I say?"

2011-10-24T13:42:00.000-05:00

Sometimes when it comes to sharing the good news of Jesus with others, we're stumped on what exactly we are to say.

We may feel as though since we're not as well-versed in the scriptures as other people,
that we can't tell anyone about Jesus.

That is not the case.

This is what Satan wants us to believe.

It's a trap he sets before us making us think we're incapable of talking to others.

Don't fall for it.

We may not be able to quote as well as the next person,
but there are things we can do to reach someone and tell them about Jesus.

A) Do what you can and God will give the increase. | You may not be able to convert someone in that first conversation, and that's okay. Just do your part by planting the seed and telling them about Jesus. God will fix it so someone else can come along and water the seed. Then someone else will come along and do the rest. Just as long as you start the process, God will do the rest!

B) Tell someone what the Lord has done for you. | We all have had something that's happened in our life where the Lord delivered us; we need to be willing to share that with someone else. If we do that we are more likely to lead others to Christ.

C) The life we live says more than any words we could ever say. | Don't just speak one thing and do something else. People are more likely to want to hear more from you if you're putting into practice what you're trying to convey to them. Simply put: don't just talk about it, be about it! "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

So you see, there is no reason for us NOT to be able to tell someone about Christ.

We come into contact with a variety of people on a daily basis;
and before they leave our space, we should slip Jesus in there.

You never know, the small part that we do can help lead a lost soul
to the Lord.

Think about it...
- B.

Something to Remember:

2011-10-24T13:07:00.000-05:00

Doesn't matter what we have or don't have,

as long as we're connected to God

we are STILL BLESSED!

Luke 12:6-7

2011-10-16T20:57:00.000-05:00

What kind of heart do you have?

2011-10-16T15:44:00.004-05:00

[ Notes taken from the sermon preached
by Bro. Richard Washington ]

The text was taken from Mark 4:13-20:

¹³ Then Jesus said to them, “Don’t you understand this parable? How then will you understand any parable? ¹⁴ The farmer sows the word. ¹⁵ Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. ¹⁶Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. ¹⁷ But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. ¹⁸ Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; ¹⁹ but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. ²⁰ Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.”

There are four types of hearts:
Rejectful Heart
Retractful Heart
Restricted Heart
and
Reproductive Heart

Rejectful Heart: word of God went on it but didn't go in it (v. 15)

II Corinthians 4:3-4 -> ³ And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. ⁴ The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.
I Corinthians 4:6 -> ⁶ Now, brothers and sisters, I have applied these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit, so that you may learn from us the meaning of the saying, “Do not go beyond what is written.” Then you will not be puffed up in being a follower of one of us over against the other.

Retractful Heart: obeyed the word and then turned their back on God (v. 16 & 17)

II Peter 2:20-22 -> ²⁰ If they have escaped the corruption of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and are again entangled in it and are overcome, they are worse off at the end than they were at the beginning. ²¹ It would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than to have known it and then to turn their backs on the sacred command that was passed on to them. ²² Of them the proverbs are true: “A dog returns to its vomit,”^[a] and, “A sow that is washed returns to her wallowing in the mud.”

Restricted Heart: word of God went on it, in it, down, but didn't come back up (v. 18 & 19)

Luke 10:38-40 -> ³⁸ As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. ³⁹ She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. ⁴⁰ But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”
We have to be careful not to get caught up in what we have or it will have us. We can't allow duties, dollars and evil desires to stop us from being and becoming who God wants us to be.

Reproductive Heart: word fell on good ground; went on, in, down and came up (v. 20)

Now that we know the different kinds of hearts, I have a question for you...

What kind of heart do YOU have?

We have to be honest with ourselves.

If we don't have a Reproductive Heart, it's about time for us to allow God to perform

a spiritual heart transplant on us...wouldn't you agree?

Think about it...

- B.

Always Remember:

2011-10-13T15:58:00.002-05:00

A Traveler's Guide to Heaven

2011-10-10T15:53:00.001-05:00

By: Evan Pigman

Accommodations: Arrangement for accommodations must be made in advance (John 14:2).

Passports: Persons seeking entry will not be permitted past the gates without having proper credentials and having their names registered with the ruling authority (Revelations 21:27).

Departure Time: The exact date of departure has not been announced. Travelers are advised to be prepared to leave on short notice (I Corinthians 15:52).

Tickets: Your ticket was purchased by a Friend named Jesus. It should be claimed by hearing the gospel, believing in Christ, repenting of sins, confessing Jesus, and having sins washed away in baptism (Romans 10:17; Acts 2:38; Matthew 10:32; Acts 22:16) Keep its promises firmly in hand (John 5:24; Hebrews 5:8, 9).

Luggage: No luggage whatsoever is needed or allowed (I Timothy 6:7).

Immigration: All passengers are classified as immigrants, since they are taking up permanent residence in a new country. There is no maximum quota, so all are invited to come (Hebrews 11:16; Revelation 22:17).

Air Passage: Travelers going directly by air (I Thessalonians 4:17).

Vaccinations: Not needed, as there are no diseases there (Revelation 21:4).

Currency: Deposits may be forwarded to await passenger's arrival. Make deposits as large as possible (Matthew 6:20, 21).

Clothing: A complete and appropriate new wardrobe is provided for each traveler (Isaiah 61: 10).

Reservations: Booking is now open. Since departure time is unknown you should apply at once, if you wait, it may be too late (II Corinthians 6:2).

To learn more, please consult the Holy Bible.

Keep a Song in your Heart

2011-10-10T15:04:00.004-05:00

Jesus Christ is Love

Morality

2011-10-10T15:01:00.001-05:00

Morality

It is contended by some that persons with good morals, respectable citizens with clean lives, can go to heaven regardless of their relationship to Christianity.

We briefly note that if this were true:

Man could have been saved without Christ's coming into the world; but he came to save (John 3:17 -> For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.)
One could be saved apart from Christ's stripes; but we are healed by his stripes (I Peter 2:24 -> who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness-by whose stripes you were healed)
A person could have been saved without the death of Christ; but he died for our sins (I Corinthians 15:3 ->For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures)
Man could have been justified without he resurrection of Christ; but he was raised for our Justification ( Romans 4:25 ->who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification)
We could be redeemed apart from the blood; but we have our redemption through his blood (Ephesians 1:7 -> In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace)
Men could please God without faith; but without faith it's impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6 ->But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.)
One could be saved without repenting; but those who repent not shall perish (Luke 13:3-> I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish)
Man could deny Christ and be saved; but those who deny Christ shall be denied before the Father (Matthew 10:32-> Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven)
A person could be saved without baptism; but baptism saves (I Peter 3:20, 21-> who formerly were disobedient, when once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water. There is also an antitype which now saves us-baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ)
Men could be saved without being born again; but men must be born again to see the kingdom of God (John 3:5 ->Jesus answered, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.")
We could be saved without obeying the gospel; but Christ will render vengeance to them that obey not the gospel ( II Thessalonians 1:8 -> in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.)
Man could be saved without being converted; but he must be converted to enter into the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3 -> and said, "Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.)

Promise #273

2011-09-30T14:52:00.000-05:00

This is an amazing picture of one man’s simple faith in the faithfulness of his God. Just prior to these verses in Romans 4, Paul is talking about Abraham and how he hoped against hope in the face of impossible circumstances. God had promised Abraham a son to be born by his 90 year old wife, Sarah. Though Abraham himself was nearing 100 years old, and his aged body was hardly in the right condition to have children, he believed what God had promised.

The NIV Bible says verses 20-21 this way… 20 Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21 being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. NIV

Abraham didn’t waver in his unbelief but was fully persuaded that God had the power to do all that He promised. Always remember that when God makes a promise to us, He has the power to perform what He has promised no matter how impossible the circumstances!

Who would have thought that this simple act of faith by an old man and an old woman so many thousand of years ago would have such ripple effects throughout history! Because of Abraham’s faith that God was who He said He was, we are reaping the benefits the benefits today.

What has God promised you? You never know what ripple effects there might be because of your simple obedience to believe that God has power to do all that He has promised! Don’t waver through unbelief today, but believe with all your heart in the faithfulness and power of the One who made the promise.

[ SOURCE ]

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2011-09-27T16:21:00.000-05:00

Good Life | Revelation

Gospel Meeting

2011-09-25T16:16:00.000-05:00

When: September 25-29, 2011

Where: Fidelity Church of Christ

140 Fidelity St.

Houston, TX 77029

(713) 674-3403

Time: 6pm Sunday; 7pm Monday - Thursday

Guest Speaker: Bro. Jack Evans, Sr. - President of Southwestern Christian College

How to Worship when You're Wounded (The Example of Job)

2011-09-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

Grieving: Tell God exactly how you feel

Job 1:20
Job 7:11

Honor God in the middle of your pain

Job 1:21-22

Invoke the name of one greater than ourselves

Job 5:8
Job 12:13
Psalm 37:39

Join with others for support

Job 36:18-24
Psalm 63:2

Keep on with diligence and determination

Job 2:9-10
Job 13:15
Job 19:25

Always Remember...

2011-09-06T14:15:00.000-05:00

How to Worship instead of Worry

2011-09-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

"Go to the Lord for help and worship Him continually." Psalm 105:4

Worship is:

Asking
Believing
Confessing
Depending
Expressing
Finding

Ask God for help

II Chronicles 20:3
II Chronicels 20:4

Believe God can handle our situations
(Remind yourself who god is and what He has done)

II Chronicles 20:5-6

Confess your inadequacy
(Depend on God to save you)

II Chronicles 20:12-13
II Chronicles 20:15
II Chronicles 20:17

Express thanks to God in advance

II Chronicles 20:21-22

Find the blessing in the battle

II Chronicles 20:24-27

Question of the Day

2011-09-05T16:31:00.001-05:00

Does the Bible teach that miracles occur today?

Bob Prichard
Topic(s): Holy Spirit, Miracles

To answer this question, we must consider the real issue.

There is no question that Christ and His apostles performed miracles, because the Bible clearly says that they did. There is also no question whether God is powerful enough to perform miracles, because we know that He has infinite power. It is also not a question of whether there is value in prayer for the sick, because the Bible tells us to pray for the sick. The question is not one of what we think we have seen, but what does the Bible teach about miracles today?

Why were miracles given in the first place?
In the beginning, God created by His miraculous power, speaking things into existence, but then after the creation, things continued according to the natural laws that God established. God spoke through inspired men and His Son, but He now speaks through the inspired written scripture, the Bible, and no longer needs inspired men to speak for Him.

Miraculous powers exhibited in the early church confirmed the truth of their words, but today we have the Bible, and no longer need miracles to confirm the truth of the word.

Jesus said, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me (John 10:25). The disciples went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following (Mark 16:20).

Miracles have not continued to the present, because the Bible said they would cease.
1 Corinthians 12 lists nine miraculous spiritual gifts, such as the gifts of wisdom, tongues, and prophecy. Paul reminded the Corinthians that not every Christian had the gifts, and then proceeded to show them the more excellent way (12:31) of love in chapter thirteen. Paul said that Charity [love] never faileth: but whether there be prophecies [the miraculous gift of prophecy], they shall fail; whether there be tongues [the miraculous gift of tongues], they shall cease; whether there be knowledge [the miraculous gift of knowledge], it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away (1 Corinthians 13:8-10). The time when these gifts would cease is when that which is perfect is come, referring to the completion of God's written revelation of the Bible, what James called the perfect law of liberty (James 1:25).

The New Testament shows that the Lord never failed when He attempted to heal anyone. The only exception to the principle was the lunatic the apostles could not heal because they, the healers, did not have enough faith.

We also find that the cures of Christ were immediate and were 100% effective.
Those who claim the power to heal and perform miracles today are selective in whom they heal and do not heal immediately, and are not 100% effective. They appear to be successful because their followers believe they are healed, whether or not it has actually happened.

Many marvelous and unexplainable things happen today, but they are not miracles, even if we cannot explain how they happened.
Miracles have ended as the Bible predicted.

[ SOURCE ]