The Folly of “Following Your Heart” - Chase Green
“It’s my life and I’ll do what I want!” Perhaps the tune reverberates through your mind as you recall the 1965 song recorded by the Animals, or several newer renditions covered by various bands. Or maybe you’re more familiar with the much newer “The Heart Wants What it Wants” by Selena Gomez? But do these hit singles really reflect the truth?
“It’s my life and I’ll do what I want!” Perhaps the tune reverberates through your mind as you recall the 1965 song recorded by the Animals, or several newer renditions covered by various bands. Or maybe you’re more familiar with the much newer “The Heart Wants What it Wants” by Selena Gomez? But do these hit singles really reflect the truth?
“Follow your heart.” “Let your conscience be your guide.” These overused Disneyesque clichés have become mainstay philosophy for much of the masses. But are these thoughts Biblical?
Let me start by saying that only if one guides his heart with the Bible do the statements “follow your heart” and “let your conscience be your guide” become acceptable. Again, that’s a tremendous qualifier to the statement – one must only follow his heart (or conscience) if his heart and conscience are properly trained by the Word of God. Ezra 7:10 says that Ezra “prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel” (emphasis mine throughout). First Timothy 1:5, 1:19, and 3:9 emphasize the importance of a “pure heart,” a “good conscience,” and “sincere faith.” First Timothy 4:2 says that the conscience can be “seared with a hot iron,” Titus 1:15 indicates that the conscience can be “defiled,” and Hebrews 9:14 tells us that the blood of Christ purges our consciences from dead works toward serving the living God.
To use the expression, none of this comes “through osmosis.” One must dedicate himself to diligent study of God’s Word in order to discover God’s eternal truths that, when applied, will make one accepted in God’s sight.
The fact of the matter is that most individual’s hearts, if followed, will lead them down the path of destruction. The Bible says in Prov. 4:23 that we are to keep our hearts with all diligence, because out of our hearts spring the issues of life. Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it?” Jeremiah 10:23 says, “O Lord, I know the way of man is not in himself; It is not in man who walks to direct his own steps.”
Even a cursory reading of the book of Jeremiah surely impresses upon the reader that the human heart, left to its own devices, only brings sin and sorrow. Proverbs 29:15 similarly shows that “a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.” Children must be brought up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Eph. 6:4) if they are to have hearts molded by Scripture.
While it is true that young people have free will, thus, the ability to choose their own path, it is also true that rearing children with knowledge of God’s will for their lives greatly increases the likelihood of spiritual success (Deut. 6:1-9; Prov. 22:6). The bottom line, though, is this – we must ensure that young people understand that “following your heart,” generally-speaking and without molding one’s heart by the Word of God, only leads to disaster because the human heart left to its own devices is desperately wicked. Who can know it?
The Christian Influence - Ben Bailey
To illustrate the power of our influence an Old Korean Proverb says, “Power lasts ten years, influence not more than a hundred.” Sometimes we may think, “Am I influencing anyone? The question asked is really a faulty one. It’s not IF we are influencing anyone, but HOW are we influencing them. All of us are an influence on others either for good, bad, or indifference. What type of influence should a Christian possess? Let’s notice what God says.
The Christian Influence....
To illustrate the power of our influence an Old Korean Proverb says, “Power lasts ten years, influence not more than a hundred.” Sometimes we may think, “Am I influencing anyone? The question asked is really a faulty one. It’s not IF we are influencing anyone, but HOW are we influencing them. All of us are an influence on others either for good, bad, or indifference. What type of influence should a Christian possess? Let’s notice what God says.
Concerning our influence, Jesus said, "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Mt. 5:13-16). Jesus likened our influence to two powerful examples in this text: salt & light. All of us can see the value and effect of these in our everyday life. For example, think back to the blandest and most boring meal that you have eaten. Don’t you remember thinking to yourself, “This needs some spice?”. Our influence is that “spice” that adds flavor to life. Oh, how we need to add good “spice” to this life. Then, think about the effects of light. When you walk into a room at night the very first thing you do is…turn on the light. Why? Light helps us to see and adds beauty, vividness, and life to all it touches. The same is true of our example. Our “light” must shine in such a vivid and beautiful way that others can see it and glorify our God!
Parents especially have an influence on their children. Henry Ward Beecher so eloquently said, “What a mother sings to the cradle goes all the way down to the coffin.” How parents need to be a good example to set a principle for their children’s lives. Of the lasting effect of parents upon children, the Holy Spirit said, “…bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4). As the old hymn says, “God give us Christian homes” and especially Christian influence in the home!
As we think about influence may our question not be, “Am I influencing anyone?” But rather, “How am I influencing everyone I come in contact with?” May God help us to be influential for Him!
When Enough is Enough, or is it Enough? - Joey Ferrell
A few months ago, I posted an article regarding the method of evangelism seen in the gospels. In particular, we talked about the efforts of those that Jesus had taught and sent out…and the reward of evangelism that they saw in that Jesus told them to “Rejoice not in these things, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” What a beautiful passage…but there is more to learn.
A few months ago, I posted an article regarding the method of evangelism seen in the gospels. In particular, we talked about the efforts of those that Jesus had taught and sent out…and the reward of evangelism that they saw in that Jesus told them to “Rejoice not in these things, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” What a beautiful passage…but there is more to learn.
In Luke 10, the 70 are sent out into the fields for teaching to those that Jesus would soon come to their area. This was a precursor of His teaching in order to prepare the way and to soften hearts that were willing to listen. And much good obviously would come from this. However, we have to remember something VERY important in this passage as well. Look at what is said in Luke 10:10-11:
“But whatever city you enter, and they do not receive you, go out into its streets and say, ‘The very dust of your city which clings to us we wipe off against you. Nevertheless know this, that the kingdom of God has come near you.’”
(Luke 10:10–11)
You see, even in the wisdom of spreading the message of the Lord Christ Jesus, there would still be times in which we will fail. It won’t be our own failure, but the failure of those with dishonest or hardened hearts that will not receive the word of God, act upon it, and be obedient to it. Jesus said it would happen! He certainly experienced this on His own level as well. He was rejected by many. He was turned away. He was the recipient of quite a bit of animosity and even had stones thrown at Him while he taught.
Certainly, we must do what is required of us in spreading the gospel message; however, wisdom needs to prevail in some discussions. What do I mean? You have probably seen them…maybe even been involved in them…public arguments, social media debates through keyboards, and maybe even one on one bible studies that just don’t go like they should! Just yesterday, I found myself in one of these conversations on social media…and I let my guard down. I allowed someone to get the better of me instead of following Jesus’ words. I realize this is a little different scenario…but is it really?
In a fairly parallel passage in Matthew, the words of Jesus in Matthew 9-10 also tell us to be as cunning as a serpent, but as wise as doves! What does that mean? I truly believe it means to be stern, but also to be kind. Ephesians 4 gives us several passages about how we should act in kindness and I believe it would be a good attribute in order to have in our arsenal when it comes to defending the truth…and doing it in love!
After all, will we win souls if all we are concerned with is winning arguments? I think not.
So, when is the right time to shake the dust off? That is a question that is extremely difficult to even consider answering. I think it would be up to the individual to determine. Jesus did give some aspect of it though - “if they do not receive you…”. To me, that would mean you try to teach truth at least once and test the “spirits” to see where the truth lands. If a relatively good discussion comes from it, then keep on! But…if it does not, maybe try once or twice more…and then it may be time to shake the dust and move on.
Here’s the thing though that I have missed in the past, and I hope to do better in the future….those areas that the dust is shaken off? Well, they are still possibly fertile soil. Maybe not for us…maybe not for today, but if you remember, these 70 men that were sent out were to go into areas in which Jesus would be following. Maybe when Jesus came on the scene…some of those hearts were fertile enough to listen, even after dust blowing in their faces after the 70 left. I was also reminded when listening to a sermon from a lectureship that the text does not tell me to never return…and that is what I must do better personally. What about you?
It is much better to focus on winning souls than winning arguments. Most, if not all times, a “religious” argument does not have a winner…except Satan when souls walk away from truth.
May God bless your efforts in evangelizing and sharing the truth, and certainly in your own quest for truth. We would always love to hear from you if you have questions about your own understanding or salvation.
~Joey
God Knows You! - Jameson Steward
“O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, And are acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word on my tongue, But behold, O LORD, You know it altogether” (Psalm 139:1-4).
God Knows You
“O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, And are acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word on my tongue, But behold, O LORD, You know it altogether” (Psalm 139:1-4).
One of the most significant challenges for anyone who teaches or preaches is that you don’t know some people who are listening all that well. I may know some things about you and try to make an application that I think will be helpful – but sometimes it’s just a shot in the dark.
Very few people – if any – may know of your deepest, darkest struggles with temptation. Few people may know of the difficulties you are facing in your life. Maybe no one on this earth knows about the tears you’ve cried. However, there is One who knows everything that goes on in your life.
David wrote that the LORD had searched him and knew him. This refers to profoundly personal and intimate knowledge. The LORD knew things about David that no one else knew or could have known.
David went on to say that the LORD knew what he was doing – and even knew and understood what he was thinking. David emphasizes that not only does the LORD know what you are doing, but He understands fully why you acted that way. He understands your thoughts, and He understands how you think.
The LORD fully understands and sees the path we are traveling in life, even when we may not be able to see where a particular decision will lead us. Even when you feel alone, He sees you. The LORD is “acquainted with” (or familiar with) all your ways.
David wrote that the LORD knew and understood the words he would say before he even said them. God knows and perfectly understands how your mind works and knows the words that come to your mind before you ever say them. It’s safe to say that the LORD knows us better than we even know ourselves.
The reason the LORD knows everything about us is because He made us. “For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well” (Psalm 139:13-14).
Because God knows everything about us and is our Creator, His word ought to be precious to us (Psalm 139:17-18). He tells us everything we need to know (2 Timothy 3:16-17). This is why it is so crucial for preachers and teachers to proclaim God’s word (2 Timothy 4:2). I may not know you all that well – but God does, and His word is precisely what you need to hear.
Jameson Steward
"A new year...a new YOU? - It is time!" - Joey Ferrell
Here we are…once again at the end of a year. A year that may have been prosperous for you individually…or it may have been challenging in one way or another. In some ways, all of us can say that we have been prosperous, can we not? We have lived yet another day on this earth and we are alive and somewhat well enough to even read this article. And then…some of us may have had the absolute worst financial, emotional, physical…and maybe even spiritual years we have ever had.
Here we are…once again at the end of a year. A year that may have been prosperous for you individually…or it may have been challenging in one way or another. In some ways, all of us can say that we have been prosperous, can we not? We have lived yet another day on this earth and we are alive and somewhat well enough to even read this article. And then…some of us may have had the absolute worst financial, emotional, physical…and maybe even spiritual years we have ever had.
For this author, this year has been a tough mixture of both…but GOD is GREAT all the time! Here I am on the next to the last day of the year looking out the window at what appears to be a warming day after an intense cold spell with record temperatures watching the animals in my own and in my neighbor’s farm. God has truly blessed me beyond measure…in the good times, and in the bad.
I can’t help but think about what James wrote concerning our trials. You may remember in the first chapter, starting in verse 2, James says this:
Brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience, but let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete…”
James goes on to tell us some much more needed wisdom in how we seek out this perfection that we can afford while on this earth, and what a great reading it is.
So…even though we have all had some challenging times….and we have all had some joyous times…we get a “virtual” do-over by changing the calendar in a day or two. Isn’t that an interesting concept? Some days I think that is the silliest concept in the world since all we are doing is writing a different date on things…but then I get it. The paradigm is the underlying idea…not the calendar. Maybe you have had a tough physical year. Unfortunately, I have. Maybe you have lost some very close friends and loved ones. Unfortunately, I have. Maybe some of your closest relationships have become strained. Unfortunately, mine have. Maybe your financial situation changed through a job change, inflation or other things. Both fortunately…and unfortunately, mine has. But look at what we have to look forward to! John records the words of Jesus in Revelation 21 talking about the beauty of eternity in which none of these things will matter as long as we are on the “right side” of eternity.
Let me leave you with some verses that may help us all in the coming year to be better in our patience, our love, our spiritual being, and ourselves. We hope you have had a great year in 2022…and here is to an even better year in 2023!! (Translations vary)
Isaiah 43:18-19 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.
19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”Exodus 12:2 “This month shall be unto you the beginning of months: it shall be the first month of the year to you.”
2 Chronicles 15:7 “But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.”
Psalm 27:1 “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?”Psalm 103:2 “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget all His kind deeds.”
James 1:17 “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
Psalm 68:19 “Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden, The God who is our salvation.”
Isaiah 43:25 “I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins.”
1 Corinthians 9:24 “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.”
Lamentations 3:40 “Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the Lord.”
Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Ezekiel 36:26 “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.”
2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”
May God bless each of you and we are so thankful for you all!
Until 2023!
~Joey
From the field and around the www…
It has been a great year for both. We have seen some ups and some downs in our budget, our broadcast footprint, and our field rep visits.
We thought you would like to know though that at the end of the year, we have these analytics to share:
We have had over 278,000 pages viewed on our website from hundreds of countries
There have been over 204,000 visitors to the website (a new record)
3,616 downloads of our app have occurred this year
Scott and Joey visited a total of 50 congregations (including three lectureships) in 7 different states
At year end, we have over 90 local broadcasts on mostly major networks like CBS, ABC, NBC, Fox, MyTv, CW as well as some independent stations
We measured over 43,000 households watching each week BEFORE adding CW Plus in October
And…thankfully to our generous contributors, we went from a major deficit in October to being on budget at the end of December
May God ALWAYS have all the glory! Can we come and visit with you in 2023? Please let us know where you are. We would love to talk with you.
Where is Your Treasure? - Ben Bailey
"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matt. 6:19-21). With these words our Lord teaches us the folly of material wealth and the splendor of heavenly riches. There are many worldly temptations that the Devil throws before us each day: money, power, luxuries, etc,. Jesus clearly teaches us that none of these are more important than our eternal soul. Jesus said, “What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and looses his own soul? Or, what shall a man give in exchange for his soul” (Mk. 8:36-37). Nothing is more important than your soul! Notice several reasons why we must not put our focus on earthly treasures.
Where is Your Treasure?
"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matt. 6:19-21). With these words our Lord teaches us the folly of material wealth and the splendor of heavenly riches. There are many worldly temptations that the Devil throws before us each day: money, power, luxuries, etc,. Jesus clearly teaches us that none of these are more important than our eternal soul. Jesus said, “What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and looses his own soul? Or, what shall a man give in exchange for his soul” (Mk. 8:36-37). Nothing is more important than your soul! Notice several reasons why we must not put our focus on earthly treasures.
Worldly Treasures Decay. No matter how big a home you build, it will one day rot and decay into debris. No matter how much money you horde up, you will one day die and your money cannot go with you. In reality, all that exists or ever will exist will one day be destroyed by fire (See 2 Peter 3:9-12). Why would you want to put your focus on earthly things that will fade away and amount to nothing?
Wordly Treasures Darken. One of the major problems with a worldly focus is it blocks our view of what is really important. Howard Hughes is a modern example of this. Although he was a multi-millionaire, history reveals to us in his last days he was a sad recluse with no real self-worth. Jesus teaches us not to let anything get in our way of going to Heaven when he says, “Seek first the kingdom of God…” (Matt. 6:33). Are worldly treasures obstructing your view of what’s really important?
Wordly Treasures Divide. One thing is certain about worldly treasures and God; you can’t have the best of both. Worldly treasures definitely divide your allegiance. Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon” (Matt. 6:24). The reason a person cannot have the best of both worlds is because Jesus will take nothing less than 100% of your devotion (Mark 12:30ff). Are the treasures of this world dividing you from God?
Please understand that we are not saying having nicer things is wrong. That is not the point. Rather, our focus, passion, and desire cannot be first and foremost on worldly treasures. May God help each of us to focus on spiritual things first!
What is Evangelism and Why is it Important? - Joey Ferrell
Evangelism. You may have heard this word many times and not really understand the meaning behind it. After all, you will not find the word evangelism in your Bibles. But, the concept is definitely there, and we must understand the significance and the importance of utilizing evangelism in our day and time.
Evangelism. You may have heard this word many times and not really understand the meaning behind it. After all, you will not find the word evangelism in your Bibles. But, the concept is definitely there, and we must understand the significance and the importance of utilizing evangelism in our day and time.
Definition
Evangelism is derived from the Greek noun that is used for “good tidings” or “messenger.” The Greek word looks very similar to the spelling that we have in evangelism. It is euangelion. You can notice the similarity pretty quickly.
What does it really mean? In brief, it means to tell the Good News of Jesus Christ.
While it would take a very lengthy article and time to fully expound on all of the ways that we can evangelize, what we can look at today is just a touch of how we can jump start a few ideas in which to grow upon.
The Bible clearly has multiple examples of evangelism, especially in the great commission of Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:15-16, Luke 8 & 10, Proverbs 11:30, and many more. The “how” isn’t always as clear as they “why.” Here are a few suggestions of how to evangelize in your local area.
Card programs - if you know of people in the community who have had sickness, lost loved ones, had life changes, and so on…a nice greeting card in a timely manner may be more than enough to open a door of opportunity.
Social Media invites - There are many local area groups on Facebook in particular. In our area, there is hardly a week that goes by that someone does not post asking about a “good church” in the area. This is a great way to make an acquaintance. Just don’t be overpowering with the conversation. The goal would be to invite them to visit.
New mover and visitor bags - There are different ways to acquire new mover contacts. One of these is through the House to House mail out program. When you may receive a list of contacts, make up a small gift bag with a couple of tracts, maybe a DVD (you can order some from our website for free), a couple of small goodies like a pen/pencil, not pad, etc. and deliver it to their door step. Even if they are not at home, the bag can be left…just make sure the contact information is there for the church! These are also great for visitors that come to your building for services.
Personal invitation cards - Have some cards printed up with the church name, address, and meeting times only on the front side. On the back of the card, have a place that says “you are invited to come and visit with us. Please show this card to someone to let them know you are looking for me. My name is __________________________. My phone number is (optional) ___________. We look forward to seeing you!” Hand these cards out anywhere and everywhere you come into contact with people.
Example - Make sure that in your daily life that people see Christ within you. Christians should be happy people, and we should be people that want to tell everyone that we can about our happiness and our salvation. We should want to be “messengers of the Good News”….euangelion.
Why is evangelism important? Well, if you have read this far, you probably already have some indication of the importance. The main emphasis is simple…we are commanded by our Lord to tell others, but, the motivation should be that we love our neighbor as much as ourselves…and want to see our neighbor (friend, loved one, etc) in heaven with us.
Let’s get busy! There are souls that need us today…right now!
Our main emphasis at The Gospel of Christ is to Take the Whole Gospel to the Whole World. This is the basis of our evangelistic efforts. We pray that you will see many great resources that you can also use in your own evangelistic efforts from The Gospel of Christ including through our television broadcasts, field representative visits, free media items and our website.
We are currently reaching over 50,000 households each week through our broadcasts across the country, thousands of website visitors each week and hundreds of free media items sent out via mail and digital downloads. This is all made possible by individuals and congregations of the Lord’s church. We hope you will visit a congregation near you soon. Find our supporting congregations at www.findthelordschurch.com.
Until next time…
Joey
Praying - Amy Lawrence
As I write this, I am thinking how unqualified I am to be discussing something I struggle with myself. Don’t get me wrong, the desire to pray is not the trouble. God’s command to pray is for our benefit, not His, Phil. 4:6-7. The struggle is remembering to talk to God without making it nothing but a check in a box. Communication - real, deep communication - is one of my shortcomings. There is only so much of myself that I let be seen. I have my reasons, but I tend to be reserved in any relationship. Rare is the person that can get me to feel comfortable enough to fully open up. I’ve built that habit in my communication with God as well. When I remember (but not as frequently as I should) that my shortcomings shouldn’t keep me from talking to God, I pray. He knows me better than anybody already. There is nothing that is hidden from Him - not even our insecurities - and He still loves us all. That knowledge makes me speak from my heart to the only One that can see the picture in my head before I utter a single word.
Praying
A Study on Communication
Amy Lawrence
As I write this, I am thinking how unqualified I am to be discussing something I struggle with myself. Don’t get me wrong, the desire to pray is not the trouble. God’s command to pray is for our benefit, not His, Phil. 4:6-7. The struggle is remembering to talk to God without making it nothing but a check in a box. Communication - real, deep communication - is one of my shortcomings. There is only so much of myself that I let be seen. I have my reasons, but I tend to be reserved in any relationship. Rare is the person that can get me to feel comfortable enough to fully open up. I’ve built that habit in my communication with God as well. When I remember (but not as frequently as I should) that my shortcomings shouldn’t keep me from talking to God, I pray. He knows me better than anybody already. There is nothing that is hidden from Him - not even our insecurities - and He still loves us all. That knowledge makes me speak from my heart to the only One that can see the picture in my head before I utter a single word.
As we study together, my desire is that we have a better understanding of prayer that will make us see it for what God intended it to be in our lives and put that into practice. As part of the introduction to this study, let me ask some questions. Does it matter who prays? What should be the quality of our prayers? Where should we pray? How often should we pray? Is there a right or wrong way to pray? The word of God can answer.
Let’s begin with defining the idea of prayer. Before we can define what prayer is, we must first establish what prayer isn’t. It is a common belief that God is this magical force that exists only to grant our wishes. Too many don’t believe or stop believing in God because they pray and think they don’t get an answer, ignoring or dismissing the possibility that God’s answer was “no”. David prayed. God’s answer was no, 2 Sam. 12. He continued to be a servant of God. Jesus prayed. God’s answer was no, Mt. 26. He continued to the cross. Paul prayed. God’s answer was
no, 2 Cor. 12:7-10. He continued in a life of poverty, pain, and peril, 2 Cor. 11:22-29, knowing that it would in the end lead to rest, 2 Tim. 4:6-8. God is not an ATM that fulfills our selfish desires. He is our Creator and knows better than we do what we want and need. Praying is our form of communication with God. It is the avenue created by the Almighty to make our requests known to Him, Phil. 4:6. (Does this mean God doesn’t already know? Absolutely not, Mt. 6:8. He still requires we ASK, Mt. 7:7-8.) It is the method we have of thanking God for giving us what we need - and many times what we want, Col. 3:17, Phil. 4:6, and it is the place our hearts go when we are overwhelmed, Ps. 61:2, Rom. 8:26.
Does it matter who prays? Paul wrote to Timothy that only men are to pray aloud in a worship assembly, 1 Tim. 2:8. Does this mean women cannot pray at all in the assembly? We can pray in worship services - just not out loud, 1 Cor. 14:34. James wrote that the “fervent prayer of the righteous” is the most beneficial, James 5:16…but what about the unrighteous? Recorded in Proverbs 15:29, God’s ear is “far from the wicked”. Isaiah wrote that God “will not hear” the unrighteous, Is. 59:1-2. God told Jeremiah not to pray for Judah, Jeremiah 14:11-12. Why? The answer is found in verse 10. They had no desire to follow God and His commandments, therefore God refused to hear them. It matters who prays. Let’s be clear here, though. We should pray for all; including the unrighteous, that they find their way to God, 1 Tim. 2:1. What God disallowed Jeremiah to pray for (and disallows us today, 1 Jn. 5:16) was for God to forgive the sins of the unrepentant. A person that is made aware of sin and still refuses to make their life right in the sight of God is one who has made the choice to remain beyond reach, Is. 59:1-2, 1 Pet. 3:12.
What should be the quality of our prayers? The quality is as important as the quantity. In my personal experience, my prayers vary. Sometimes it is a brief prayer, Jn. 11:41-42, sometimes it is an intense hour of talking with God, Mt. 14:23-25. I talk differently in private versus leading a prayer in the ladies’ Bible class, i.e. personal details and mannerisms compared with general topics concerning the church as a whole to a public audience. It would not be appropriate for me to make a personal, individual prayer when leading others in prayer, nor should my prayers be routine and practiced to the point of robotic habit, Mt. 6:7. There are many factors to be considered in prayer. First and foremost, the condition of the heart determines if a prayer is received, Ps. 51:15-17. One that has the right kind of heart will keep God’s commandments, 1 Jn. 3:22. Respect and honor are also due the One to whom we speak, Jude 24-25. He has earned it. Emotions also play a large part in the quality of prayers, Phil. 1:3-4, Rom. 15:30, Mk.
14:32-34. My most frequent emotions are joy and thankfulness, Phil. 4:4, Col. 3:15, but there have been times when confusion, frustration, anger, and overwhelming sadness were a part of my prayers. Paul was confused, Acts 9:4-6. Moses was frustrated, Ex. 15:23-26, and angry, Num.
16:12-15. Job was overwhelmed with sadness, Job 3, as was Jesus, Lk. 22:44. What these all have in common is that they talked to God about it. We must remember that we can always talk with God…but sometimes we need help. This is a job for the Helper, Jn. 14:16. Who is this? The Holy Spirit! As Christ intercedes for us through sacrifice, Heb. 7:25-28, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us through prayer, Rom. 8:26-27, Eph. 6:18. Our prayers can be spoken with the assurance that the One listening has all the answers, Rom. 8:28.
Where should we pray? There is no wifi on the planet like prayer. We can pray from anywhere, and there is no interference or disconnection. Solomon prayed from a scaffold, 2 Chr. 6:13. Elijah sat beneath a juniper tree as he talked with God, 1 Kings 19:4. Paul and Silas lifted up prayer while in prison, Acts 16:25. Nowhere is beyond God’s ability to hear, not even our own minds, 1 Sam. 1:9-15. It is no wonder; God is everywhere, 2 Chr. 16:9, Ps. 34:15. (It is up to our good sense to know if where we are is a good place to pray out loud or not.)
How often should we pray? I will first admit that my prayers are not as frequent as they should be. On days when I am on point, I pray intermittently from the time I wake until the time I lay back down to sleep, 1 Thess. 5:17. There is no wrong time to pray and no such thing as praying too much. We must, however, be careful if we are not praying enough.
Is there a right or wrong way to pray?1 Jn. 5:14 “And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to His will, he hears us…” Anything we ask of God must be in congruence with both the will of God and the laws that He has established by which we must live. One cannot pray according to God’s will if one does not know God’s will. Once there exists in Christians a knowledge of the commands and nature of God, this allows us to pray as we ought - fervently, unselfishly, and in accordance with God’s purpose, Lk. 11:1-4.
When we bare our souls to God through prayer regularly, this allows the peace Christ offers to settle in and take up residence in our hearts, Phil. 4:6-7. No such peace is found anywhere else. I hope this study has brought as much enlightenment to your prayer life as it has to mine.
Thanksgiving to God - Ben Bailey
“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations” (Psalm 100:4-5). With the recent Thanksgiving holiday upon us, many are counting their blessings. But shouldn’t thanksgiving be an everyday event instead of a once a year holiday. To the child of God, everyday is a day of thanksgiving. But, what should we thank God for?
Thanksgiving to God
Ben Bailey
“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations” (Psalm 100:4-5). With the recent Thanksgiving holiday upon us, many are counting their blessings. But shouldn’t thanksgiving be an everyday event instead of a once a year holiday. To the child of God, everyday is a day of thanksgiving. But, what should we thank God for?
“…Proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving, And tell of all Your wondrous works” (Psalm 26:7). Christians should be thankful for all that God has done for them. These works would include: God’s love (Rom. 5:6-8), God’s mercy (Lam. 3:21-22), God sacrifice (Isa. 53:10, Matt. 27:46), and God’s salvation (Eph. 2:8-10). Truly, Christians are the most blessed people in the entire world.
“For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer” (1 Tim. 4:4-5). The Christian should be thankful for the necessities of life that God provides. God is the one who provides all our needs (Phil 4:19). If we are seeking first God’s kingdom and His righteousness, then all else will be provided for us (Matt. 6:33). Aren’t you thankful you don’t have to worry about such things as where your next meal will come from or what clothes you will wear?
“Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms” (Psalm 95:2). In this context the psalmist is elated that He can be in the presence of the God of the Universe. Today, we should be thankful that we are able to have a relationship with God. We should be thankful that we can call Him father (Matt. 6:9). We should be grateful that we are part of His family (1 Tim. 3:15). Truly, it is an awesome privilege to have a relationship with Jehovah!
“ Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving” (Col. 4:2). May every day of our lives be filled with prayers of thanksgiving to God. If there is a time when we become unthankful, may we stop for just a moment and think about those who are less fortunate than us. “ I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving, And will call upon the name of the LORD” (Psalm 116:17).
"A War Worth Winning!" - Parker Webster
Each and every day, we are faced with battles, trials and temptations. Some wars we engage in are against ourselves, others, or even circumstances that exist around us. Many times, we can feel like we are losing our battles. Whether they be emotional, spiritual, or even moral battles we cans often feel vulnerable and desperate. The good news is that we have someone on our side who helps us in every battle that we face. We have someone who is "able to deliver" and someone who "helps in time of need."
Each and every day, we are faced with battles, trials and temptations. Some wars we engage in are against ourselves, others, or even circumstances that exist around us. Many times, we can feel like we are losing our battles. Whether they be emotional, spiritual, or even moral battles we cans often feel vulnerable and desperate. The good news is that we have someone on our side who helps us in every battle that we face. We have someone who is "able to deliver" and someone who "helps in time of need."
I constantly take challenges and comforts from book of Revelation. It is a book with signs and symbols, but it is also a book of victory. For the one who seems to be experiencing life failures and spiritual roadblocks, the book of Revelation is a great place to go. This final book of the New Testament chronicles the age-old struggle between good and evil. It is a story of a war with twists and turns, and even casualties. Yet, there is an overwhelming consolation that the author affords the reader.
In chapter 17, we are given an image of war, and we find our Lord and His followers victorious! John writes, "These will wage war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, because He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those who are with Him are the called and chosen and faithful" (Rev. 17:14).
Consider that this teaches us a Reality--We will have difficulties and adversaries in this life. Paul would write of the war schemes the devil uses against us each day. We must be prepared for this reality.
This verse also teaches us about our Leader--Jesus is described in three ways here. First he is described as a lamb. An average student of the Old Testament would see the significance of this description from Isaiah 53. Our lord would be "...Like a lamb that is led to slaughter, And like a sheep that is silent before its shearers, So He did not open His mouth" (Isa. 53:7). This shows us the willingness of our leader to go into battle and sacrifice even His own life. Second, Jesus is describes as the Lord of Lords. This description shows us that He should be our only master. He sees what needs to be done, He provides what is necessary to complete the job, and he cares for his servants. Another description given here of Jesus is the king of kings. It shows Jesus's divine authority over all things. It is to show that He is the sovereign ruler over heaven and earth and that there is no other like Him!
In final considerations, this verse teaches a grand message of hope. In the war that wages against the Lamb, the Lord of Lords, and the King of Kings, He is victorious. John says, "...the Lamb will overcome them." Yet, we must also recognize that we can be joined to that victory on certain contingencies. John says, "...and those who are with Him are the called and chosen and faithful." Each battle you face in life will only become harder without the greatest power to exist in all the universe. We each need the protection of God, and we need our Savior, Jesus Christ. Holding this company, we can be assured that we will eventually overcome. With Christ, each war we face is a war we can win!
"Sojourner or Settler?" - G. Scott Furniss
There is a popular hymn entitled “This world is not my Home” with the words, “This world is not my home. I am just a passing through.” I hear preachers speaking of a renewed earth as if this is our world. I listen to Christians talking about politics, elections, and other worldly things more than spiritual things and I am worried too many Christians are becoming settlers in this world instead of sojourners just passing through. They speak more of this world and fight harder to keep things in order in this country than they speak of their home and fight for Christ and His kingdom.
There is a popular hymn entitled “This world is not my Home” with the words, “This world is not my home. I am just a passing through.” I hear preachers speaking of a renewed earth as if this is our world. I listen to Christians talking about politics, elections, and other worldly things more than spiritual things and I am worried too many Christians are becoming settlers in this world instead of sojourners just passing through. They speak more of this world and fight harder to keep things in order in this country than they speak of their home and fight for Christ and His kingdom. We need to remember we are aliens and pilgrims in this world and are supposed to be sojourners and not settlers. “ These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off [e]were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 14 For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. 15 And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them” (Hebrews 11:13-16 NKJV).
The sojourner declares he is an alien and a pilgrim in this world making it clear they are seeking a country of their own so God is not ashamed to be our God. They also abstain from fleshly lusts which war against our souls.
Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation (1 Peter 2:11-12 NKJV).
When we think of these things let us look at three tests of whether we are sojourners or settlers. First, where Is Your Citizenship? “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.” (Philippians 3:20-21 NKJV).
While Daniel, Ezra, and Nehemiah show us we should be good citizens of whatever country we find ourselves in this world, but we have to be careful how entangled we get with the affairs of this life as we engage in the warfare of the kingdom. The settler’s concern is their earthly country and rulers, the sojourner’s concern is their heavenly country and king?
The second test is where is Your Treasure? Jesus told us to be careful of our attitude towards the things of this life. “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21 NKJV).
We need to have the attitude of Job. “Then Job arose, tore his robe, and shaved his head; and he fell to the ground and worshiped. 21 And he said: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked shall I return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord.” 22 In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong (Job 1:20-22 NKJV). We must heed the warning of Paul. “Now godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, [d]and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. 9 But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows (1 Timothy 6:6-10 NKJV).
The Settler’s concern is his savings, the sojourner’s concern is his salvation?
The third test is where is your home. “For we know that if our earthly [a]house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our [b]habitation which is from heaven, 3 if indeed, having been clothed, we shall not be found naked. 4 For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life. 5 Now He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the Spirit as [c]a guarantee. 6 So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. 7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. 9 Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.(2 Corinthians 5:1-10 NASB). Are you more concerned with staying here or do you have the desire to go home? “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 [u]But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know [v]which to choose. 23 But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; 24 yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sakes. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy [w]in the faith, 26 so that your pride in Christ Jesus may be abundant because of me by my coming to you again” (Philippians 1:21-26). The settler wants to stay the sojourner wants to go home.
What is your concern? Country or Kingdom? Savings or Salvation? Stay or go home? So the question we must ask ourselves, is this world your home or are you just passing through? Are your treasures here on earth or are they laid up somewhere beyond the blue? Have you settled in the land or are you a sojourner, a stranger and an alien looking for a city not made with hands, so God is not ashamed to be called your God? God encourages us not to settle down in this world but continue as strangers and aliens here knowing our citizenship is in heaven, serving our king in whatever land we reside, laying up our treasure in heaven so our heart will be there.
G. Scott Furniss
Once Saved, Always Saved? - Ben Bailey
One of the most destructive doctrines to the Bible and Christian character is the man-made teaching that once a person has been saved he can never loose his salvation. This doctrine is destructive to the Bible because it twists the Scriptures to their own destruction (2 Pet. 3:16). But, it is also destructive to Christian character because it provides a license for sin. Does the Bible really teach that once a person is saved he can never again be lost? Let us consider two passages of Scripture.
Once Saved Always Saved
Ben Bailey
One of the most destructive doctrines to the Bible and Christian character is the man-made teaching that once a person has been saved he can never loose his salvation. This doctrine is destructive to the Bible because it twists the Scriptures to their own destruction (2 Pet. 3:16). But, it is also destructive to Christian character because it provides a license for sin. Does the Bible really teach that once a person is saved he can never again be lost? Let us consider two passages of Scripture.
Galatians 5:4 “You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace.” The teaching of Galatians 5:4 absolutely repudiates the idea of “Once Saved Always Saved.” In the letter to the Galatians, Paul is writing to “the churches of Galatia” (Gal. 1:2), which represents all those who have already been saved. This is very significant because some have tried to say that these people really weren’t saved in the first place. By saying this, they are saying that Paul, an inspired man of God, didn’t really know who was and who wasn’t in the church. Friend, Galatians 5:4 clearly teaches that some were at one point saved and in the church and then they later fell out of grace with God. Others have objected to this verse by saying that these people had not fallen out of grace, they had merely fallen from within the center of God’s grace. First, what difference is there? Both are without God’s richest grace. Secondly, the Greek Testament will not accept this rendering. The literal word for fallen from is the Greek preposition that means “out of”. Paul is not only saying they have just fallen from God’s grace, but that they have literally fallen out of the realm of God’s grace. Friend, the Bible does not teach once saved always saved, it clearly refutes it!
Acts 8:20 “But Peter said to him, "Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money!” If Galatians 5:4 teaches by principle that the doctrine of once saved always saved is false, then Acts 8:20 teaches it is false by case example. Here is a man who has been converted to the gospel by inspired teacher. He then tries to buy the gift of miracles and is found in sin. Then, Peter says to him “That’s okay you’re once saved always saved.” NOT SO! Peter told Simon that his money was would perish with him. Peter told Simon he was about to perish spiritually. Remember, here is a man who has just become a Christian and then Peter told him he was about to be lost. There could be no more convincing example than this that a person can become a Christian and shortly after that be lost. Friend, the Bible does not teach once saved always saved, it clearly refutes it!
Dear reader, please do not be deceived. Once saved always saved is not taught at all in the Bible. In fact, it is clearly refuted. Please do not let yourself get caught in the modern teachings of men, but return to the Bible.
The doctrine of once saved, always saved teaches that a Christian can never so sin as to be completely lost for all eternity. Regardless of how bad your sin is or how evil you act, you cannot be lost once you are saved. No doubt, this is a very comforting teaching but it is not taught anywhere in the Bible. In fact, it is explicitly condemned in Galatians 5:4. Let us notice two other passages in the Bible that teach once saved always saved is not biblical.
1 Corinthians 10:12 “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” In this passage Paul clearly teaches that the Corinthian Christians could fall away from God. Corinth was a very wicked city and the church was becoming wicked in some ways as well. They had division, idolatry, immorality, adultery and other problems that were about to cause them to be lost. However, some might object to this passage by saying “fall doesn’t mean to be lost forever.” Let’s let the context determine the meaning. Those whom Paul is speaking about were involved in the following sins: lust, sexual immorality, idolatry, tempting Christ, and complaining (1 Cor. 10:1-11). Can anyone with these sins in their life go to Heaven? No! In fact, the context defines “fall” as “being destroyed by the destroyer” (1 Cor. 10:10). When Paul says fall he means to be lost for all eternity from God. Truly, these Christians were about to be destroyed spiritually by God and so can we if we are not careful.
2 Peter 1:10 “Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall.” Once again, Peter tells Christians they can so sin as to be lost. Why must a Christian make sure he stays saved if he can never be lost to begin with? Once saved always saved is in total contradiction with this passage of Scripture. There is no need to make sure if you are eternally secure. But, someone might object by saying “These people were never saved in the first place.” Are we willing to say Peter didn’t know who his “brothers” (2 Pet 1:10) were? Peter knew who was and wasn’t a child of God and he also knew that they could be lost if they were not careful. Truly, this passage teaches that the possibility exists for Christians to be lost and fall from grace.
After considering these passages, as well as last week’s, one wonders why those who claim to believe the whole Bible teach this doctrine. Could it be because of the comfort it brings? Possibly, but it is a pseudo-comfort. Could it be because it is what we have always heard? Very likely, but we will not be judged by what we have heard but by God’s Word (Jn. 12:48). Could it be because we have not studied the Bible to find the truth? Yes! It is time for all of us to go back to the Bible and find the truth instead of letting our denominational party tell us what to believe.
In the Bible, there are clear-cut passages that teach a Christian can so sin as to be eternally lost (See Gal. 5:4; 2 Pet 1:10, 1 Cor. 10:12, Acts 8:20). However, some have tried to distort certain passages to make them teach once saved always. Let us take a moment to examine a few of these distorted passages.
1 John 3:9 “Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God.” To the destruction of John’s overall message, some have tried to make this teach that a person cannot sin after he has become a child of God. First, this is in direct contradiction with what John has already said. In 1 John 1:8, John tells Christians “if we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. Also, in 1 John 2:1-2 John tells Christians that when they do sin they have an advocate for their sin Jesus Christ. In these passages it is evident John realized Christians would sin and would need help with their sin. What is 1 Jn. 3:9 trying to teach? John is teaching that a Christian cannot stay saved and continue in sin. The Greek word for sin is continual in its action. All Greek scholars and lexicons agree that John is saying a Christian cannot continue in sin and be pleasing to God. John is not envisioning a one-time act, but a continual lifestyle of sin. The NIV translates 1 Jn 3:9 accurately by saying “No one who is born of God will continue to sin…he cannot go on sinning.” Isn’t it interesting that the verse that some have used to prove once saved, always saved actually teaches a Christian can be lost. John is teaching that a Christian cannot continue in sin and still be pleasing in God’s sight. But, a Christian can sin and a Christian can fall away.
In writing articles of this nature, some might think my purpose is to make fun of or anger other religious groups. Dear reader, that is not at all my purpose. In fact, while I write the truth of these articles with confidence in the Bible’s teaching, I also write with a love for your soul. If it were the case that this doctrine is not true and I never said anything about it, would I really love you? No! Please understand that I am always open to reader questions and comments. If you have a question or comment about what I say, please write to me at 607 McLish Ave., Ardmore, OK 73401. And, stay tuned next week as I answer two more alleged proof text for this doctrine.
A denominational preacher in Louisville, KY has made this statement concerning once saved always saved. "If I killed my wife and mother and debauched a thousand women I couldn't go to hell--in fact, I couldn't go to hell if I wanted to." While many who hold to this teaching would not take it this far, this has to be the logical conclusion of once saved always saved. No matter what you do, or how bad you live, you cannot go to Hell even if you want to! Let us examine another passage that some believe teach once saved always saved.
John 6:37 “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.” Some claim this passage teaches that once you are in Christ, you can never leave Him. In context, this is not at all what Jesus is teaching. Jesus is teaching the exact opposite of that. Jesus is saying that nothing can remove him from you, not you from Him. This is very, very important to recognize. Jesus is teaching us that nothing externally (world, devil, persecution, etc,.) can take you out of his care and protection. But, you can get up and remove yourself out of Christ’s love by living a life of sin. Nothing can force you to leave Christ, but you can freely choose to leave Him and be lost. Jesus clarified this idea in John 10:2 by saying “…no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.” Those who believe John 6:37 teaches eternal security must believe that we are mere robots and drones. If nothing can remove us from eternal life, not even our own decisions to leave, then we do not have a free will. The Bible teaches that we do have the free will to choose (Josh. 24:15). Dear reader, John 6:37 teaches that Jesus does not want you to be lost and has done all He can to protect you, but you can turn you back on His protection and be lost.
The Bible does not teach a person can never be lost once he is saved. In fact, the Prodigal Son is a perfect example of a son who left the Father and was dead and lost (Lk. 15:24). The younger son chooses to leave the safety of his father’s house to lead a life of sin and waste. To return to the father, the son must make a decision to repent and turn back to his father. While the son is leading an ungodly life, he is considered lost by his father. The application for us is that once we are Christians we can choose to leave the security of the house of God and be lost to our heavenly Father.
Silence is Loud - Amy Lawrence
What God leaves unsaid speaks volumes.
I had a friend (…and when I say friend, I mean my wonderful, loving mother…) request that I write an article on the silence of scripture. It is important to discuss such matters, and anyone who is striving to be pleasing to God knows the necessity of studying and understanding these principles. There are still many today, some closer than others, that do not have an understanding of scripture - where it speaks, and where it doesn’t speak. This doesn’t have to be permanent. A study of scripture under the right circumstances can garner a stronger knowledge of what God’s will truly is.
Some, however, lack an understanding even after studying. They cannot see what is there and have a tendency of inventing things that are not there. Paul the apostle describes those that would “twist” the scripture, “to their own destruction”, 2 Pet. 3:16, “…always learning but never to able to come to the Truth”, 2 Tim. 3:1-7. Some of these also try to teach their twisted versions of scripture, 2 Tim. 4:3-4. One of these twisted teachings is presented in the idea that when God is “silent”, He has given us an open door. Please allow me to illustrate the idea; my daughter and I frequent Walmart. Sometimes I wait in the car and send her in to get one or two items. Let’s say I hand her a $20 bill and say, “Please, get me a 2-liter of Pepsi and a single-serving bag of Planter’s peanuts.” My daughter understands the Law of Silence. She knows that she has been asked to get those two items and nothing more. Even though she has another $16.83 in her possession, she knows. Those that argue against this scriptural principle hold to the idea that if my daughter came back to the car with my two items in one arm and more items of her choosing in the other arm, giving me only $0.32 back, she has done nothing wrong because I didn’t say, “Don’t get chapstick, a Snickers bar, nail polish, new shoestrings, a beach towel, or sunscreen.” They feel they should be allowed to go beyond the silence. However, their argument is often dropped when the silence works in their favor. I may ask my daughter to empty the dishwasher. Because I didn’t ask her to also fold a load of laundry and clean the bathroom, they are quick to defend the Law of Silence.
There are many factors to be considered when gaining an understanding of principles such as this and how/when/where it applies. It requires logical reason, study, subsequent knowledge, and hopefully as an end result, wisdom. In this article, I hope to discuss the matter so that we have a stronger knowledge of God’s Word and our part in His will.
The first thing that must be addressed in any such subject of behavior is the heart and its current condition. Understanding of topics such as the Law of Silence will primarily depend on the level of a person’s selfishness. I use the term “level” because we are all human. We all have some degree of selfishness in us. If we didn’t, we would never sin, James 1:14. It is a part of us that we must defeat on a daily basis, Rom. 7:18. The goal of every Christian should be that they strive to be pleasing to God. As unfortunate as it is, not every Christian has that goal. Selfishness often wins. What determines the battle is the soil on which it is fought. Not all hearts have the right soil. Only in an honest heart that has good soil can the Word of God grow and produce fruit, Lk. 8:1-15. There are 2 types of Bible readers: the ones that read to change God’s word and the ones that read so that God’s word can change them. The only one that can be righteous in God’s sight is the one that sacrifices themselves to the change only God’s word can bring about, Rom. 1:16-17;10:1-3;12:1-2.
Secondly, there are indeed many subjects in scripture that are difficult to understand. There is a prerequisite in any gaining of knowledge. One must begin by learning the basics. The writer of Hebrews addressed an issue the Hebrews had; they had not only neglected to grow in knowledge but had done so for so long that they actually had to be retaught the basics, Heb. 5:11-15. The writer reprimanded them because they had so much time and opportunity to grow in knowledge that they should have been able to not only understand the tough concepts, vs. 11, but should have been able to teach them, vs. 12. There are fundamental truths that one must learn before one can move on to heavier matters.
The best place to start is in the beginning. One of the basics of the Law of Silence came about in the very first giving of the very first law. Adam and Eve were told that they could eat of every tree in the garden…except one, Gen. 2:16-17;3:2-3. Satan used the silence of God to convince Eve to sin. God never gave Eve an explanation of the law, and He didn’t have to. He’s God. He doesn’t owe anyone an explanation. He gave but one rule, Gen. 3:3. He expected it to be followed. Satan used this opportunity to tempt Eve by “filling in the blanks” and creating a scenario; one that depicted God as an uninformative, stingy power hog and knowing the difference between good and evil as a thing to be coveted, Gen. 3:5. The Devil’s finger was pointing at God’s silence and planted the seed of distrust into Eve. The first rule of the Law of Silence is trust. To follow God means to trust Him, to know that even though God doesn’t give us details about where we’re going, He is holding our hand and leading us to where He has already been, Heb. 13:5. This is a trust Abram had. When Abram met God, he was asked to leave his country, his people, his family and go to a place that God didn’t even name, Gen. 12:1. A covenant was struck between God and now Abraham, the father of many nations, Gen. 17:1-5. Later, without any explanation, God commanded Abraham to sacrifice the son He promised to Abraham, Gen. 17:19; 22:1-19. He obeyed. Even though he made mistakes as all humans do, his eyes were on God - Who later calls Abraham His friend, James 2:23…because he believed God with limited information and without question.
Another tenet of the Law of Silence is authority. God set boundaries to His Word. In the books of Deuteronomy, Proverbs, and Revelation, warnings are recorded for anyone who dares go beyond the boundaries God has set, Deut. 18:18-22, Prov. 30:6. John details the punishment, Rev. 22:18-19. Paul, when addressing the Corinthians, discusses the responsibilities of a steward in the house of God in 1 Cor. 4. Notice what he uses as the standard in verse 6: scripture. Paul examples himself and Apollos as physical illustrations of the humility that is required to keep from going “beyond what is written”. It is a natural inclination for humans in lofty positions to let it go to their head. God’s word keeps us in check - if used properly. Adding to or taking away denotes: 1.) A lack of trust that God gave us everything we need to know, and 2.) An arrogance that defies the fact that no human is qualified to add to or take away from scripture.
God’s will is only available to us today in its written form, 2 Tim. 3:16-17. Reading comprehension is also a must as a building block for understanding scriptural principles. Philip’s question to the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8 is a good example of the importance of this skill. He asked the eunuch, “Do you understand what you are reading?”, vs. 30. Paul wrote to the Corinthians that there were many that still didn’t understand that Jesus was the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies because their “veil remains unlifted in the reading of the Old Testament”, 2 Cor. 3:14. They didn’t understand what they were reading! When contending with the lawyer in Luke 10, Jesus didn’t just give him the answers he sought. Instead, He placed the burden of proof upon the lawyer, asking him the questions, “What is written? What is your reading of it?” in verse 26. The word for “reading” is the Greek word ἀναγινώσκω which is defined as: “to gather exact knowledge of, recognize, discern; especially, to read” (Mounce Greek Dictionary). Reading and comprehending. This lawyer answered the question in verse 27, but Jesus confirmed that the lawyer was correct, vs. 28. That little detail is important. Because Jesus said he had answered correctly, this introduced by default that the lawyer was also capable of answering incorrectly. Who determines whether or not a person’s understanding of scripture is the right interpretation or the wrong interpretation? That responsibility falls to the One Who wrote it, 2 Pet. 1:19-21.
Now, let’s tie all of this into the Law of Silence. We must establish a certainty first; the Almighty Creator needs nothing from us, Acts 17:25. It is we that need Him. David, during his reign as king of Judah, saw that he enjoyed the comforts of his own home but felt ashamed that he hadn’t built a house for God. He began making plans to do so, 2 Sam. 7:1-2. He told this to Nathan the prophet. Nathan returned to David with a message from God. In a nutshell, God told David, “I didn’t ask you to build Me a house.”, vss. 5-7. This makes it clear to readers that when God wants something, He’ll ask for it. If He doesn’t ask for it, He doesn’t want it. This concept is applicable in several passages. The writer of Hebrews used the phrase “spoke nothing” in Heb. 7:14, further standardizing God’s silence as an absence of permission and not an open door. When the children of Israel sacrificed their children to the Ammonite god Molech, Jeremiah recorded God’s words: “…I did not command or speak, nor did it come into My mind.”, Jer. 19:5. Nadab and Abihu offered a type of fire before God which He “commanded them not.”, Lev. 10:1. One can see the seriousness of God’s silence in these passages.
There are several New Testament commands that are followed with silence. When Christ established the Lord’s Supper during the Passover Feast, He used fruit of the vine and unleavened bread, Mt. 26:26-30. As far as I have observed, no church I’ve visited has used pizza as the bread and cantelope juice as the fruit of the vine. This is one silence that has never been contested…but there is one that has been deeply contested: “sing.” Both the Ephesian letter and the Colossian letter make singing a part of worship, Eph. 5:19, Col. 3:16. No other form of music is mentioned in the New Testament in reference to worship. God’s silence on the matter makes singing and only singing the form of music God requested in worship to Him.
There is another “twist” to the false teaching concerning the silence of God. Some contend that if scripture doesn’t record the punishment for a particular person’s action, then that action is not sin and therefore permissible. Scripture was “silent” when Rahab told her lie, Josh. 2:3-6. Because scripture does not record whether or not she was reprimanded/punished for her lie, there are those that argue lying is allowed under particular circumstances. Before I counter that notion, let me point out two very important aspects of God. 1.) God is no respecter of persons. He is not partial, Rom. 2:11, and He commands that we neither be partial, 1 Tim. 5:21. Lying is a sin that comes with a punishment, Rev. 21:8. Rahab will suffer the consequences of lying just as anyone else will. 2.) God cannot lie, Titus 1:2. This is one of many things that make God the Almighty and what marks the difference between God and Satan. Lies are a tool in Satan’s arsenal, Jn. 8:44, and to suggest that God would allow us to use Satan’s resources and still call us righteous is ludicrous. One must also look at scripture as one continuous document. From Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21, the journey of the children of God through this world is recorded. In this journey, the Lawmaker is God. He is the only One that has the power to establish and take away, to make any changes to His law. If anywhere in this journey a law is established that lying is sin, unless it is changed or taken away by God, it remains law everywhere in scripture. Lying is called sin throughout both the Old Testament and New, Prov. 6:16-19, Col. 3:9, Rev. 21:8. This law cannot be dismissed using this context any more than the sin of Rahab’s harlotry can be dismissed simply because the reprimand/punishment is not included in the account.
Are there exceptions? Before this can be discussed, we first have to define a couple of things: closed commands and open commands. I’m going to use my daughter as an example (she just loves when I do this). If I tell her to “go” to “the store” and do not specify how and where, it is an open command. She can choose whether to go by foot, by bicycle, by hang-glider, her choice. She can prefer Kroger over Walmart. If I tell her to take my car and go to Walmart, I’ve given her a closed command. Her mode of transportation is limited to my car. I’ve also limited her destination. Jesus gave His disciples an open command in how they may “go” when He committed to them the task of spreading the gospel, Mt. 28:19-20. He gave a closed command in what could be used to represent His flesh and His blood as a remembrance every week, 1 Cor. 11:23-25. To say there are exceptions usually involves Christian everyday living. Nowhere in scripture is it recorded whether or not I am allowed to brush my teeth twice a day or what toothpaste I can or cannot use. If to do this I would be required to steal toothpaste or toothbrush, then it would fall under the purview of scripture. I don’t have to steal my toothpaste or toothbrush. Therefore, brushing my teeth is a choice God has given completely to me. Some bring this into a worship setting, such as what color the carpet should be inside a building erected specifically for worship service. Nowhere in scripture will you find precedence for the color of carpet. Neither will you find precedence for a church building at all. The first century church met in homes, upper rooms, at riversides, a variation of settings that housed a congregation of the Lord’s church. Open command. The requirement of meeting every Sunday - closed command, Acts 2:1;20:7, 1 Cor. 11:20;16:1-2. “Exceptions” within scripture are usually either undefined or created by those that have a selfish desire to have what they shouldn’t even want.
It’s easy to obey when we love the One we obey. We as humans are naturally selfish creatures, Rom. 7:4-5. John categorizes sin under three different categories; lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, or pride of life, 1 Jn. 11:15-17. All three are rooted in pleasing ourselves. But when we trust our heart to God, we spend our efforts doing what is pleasing to Him. Sometimes it’s easy. Sometimes it’s difficult. Always it’s His will - not ours. When we follow our own will, it takes us on dangerous paths that are away from God. This is where the silence comes in handy. It’s simple to understand, really. The Christian road is flanked by darkness. God’s road signs are our guide to keeping us in the light, 1 Jn. 1:7. Putting signs where God has not will get us lost. “Beware of false knowledge. It is more dangerous than ignorance.” -George Bernard Shaw
What Must I Do to Be Saved?
What Must I Do to Be Saved?
The Bible says that our Lord and Savior came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). If we are honest with ourselves, we will realize that Jesus came to seek and save each one of us. Scripture tells us we, “All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23). God also tells us that our sins separate us from Him and bring about spiritual death (Isa. 59:1-2, Rom. 6:23). The good news is that God does not want anyone to be lost. God wants all people to be saved (1 Tim. 2:4). Jesus Christ gave Himself as a sacrifice for all people to be saved (Heb. 2:9; 1 John 2:1-2). And, the Bible tells us that we can know the truth about salvation and be saved (John 8:32; 1 John 5:13). That being true, each person must ask a very important question: “What must I do to be saved?” In this lesson we are going to examine in detail exactly what the Bible teaches one must do to be saved. As we do this, may we aim to honestly examine ourselves and see if we have been saved the way the Bible teaches (2 Cor. 13:5). Let’s notice the first step in God’s plan of salvation.
Step #1: Hear God’s Word
The Bible says, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Rom 10:17). And, “without faith it is impossible to please God” (Heb. 11:6). In the past I am afraid that we have under emphasized the importance of hearing God’s word. What does it mean to really hear God’s word? Please understand that hearing God’s word does not mean you just accept anything someone says, even if they say it is from the Bible. By hearing God’s word, two very important principles are taught.
First, hearing God’s word means that we recognize its authority. As God said on the Mount of Transfiguration, “This is My Beloved Son in whom I am well pleased, hear Him” (Mk. 9:7). The Bible is the ultimate and final authority in all matters of religion (Matt. 28:18ff, Col. 3:17, Jn. 12:48). When there is a bible question or when someone needs to know what to do to be saved, we must let the voice of God be the final authority. The question of Romans 5:4 should stand out in our minds. “What do the Scriptures says?” Too many times we hear the voice of other men or commentaries or church manuals over the voice of God. When we decide to hear God’s Word we are saying we will let God have the final and only say in this matter.
Second, hearing God’s word means that we give a diligent effort to study, search, seek and test. In the process of hearing, one must use the reasoning capabilities God has given him to discern truth from error (1 Thess. 5:21). We need to be good hearers like the noble Bereans who “…received the word with all readiness of mind, examining the Scriptures daily whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11, ASV). Let us be careful and intelligent in how we hear (Lk. 8:18), what we hear (Mk. 4:24), and Who we hear (Mk. 9:7). To hear God’s word requires that we engage our ears and our mind and make an intellectual decision about what is said based on the Bible as our authority. The question we must answer is “who have you been listening to on the matter of salvation? Do we listen to God alone? Or, do we listen to God and someone else’s opinion or teaching? Remember, only the voice of God and His Word will matter on The Judgment Day (John 12:48).
Step #2: Believe in Jesus Christ
The second step in the plan of salvation is belief. Jesus said, “If you do not believe that I am He, you will surely die in your sins” (Jn. 8:24). True belief is always an active obedient faith in God. Jesus taught the multitudes not to just call him “Lord” but to also do the things He said (Matt. 7:21; Rom. 1:5, 16:26). Believing in Jesus means that we are willing to trust and follow him with our whole heart. A beautiful example of this is seen in Acts 8. Phillip has just started teaching the Ethiopian Nobleman the gospel plan of salvation. As he teaches him about Christ the Bible tells us they came to a certain water and the nobleman wanted to be immersed. Phillip then tells him, “if you believe with all your heart you may” (Acts 8:37). From this text, we learn that belief is a conviction that Jesus is the Christ the Savior of our life. We also learn that we must be willing to do whatever Jesus says if we really believe in Him (Acts 8:38ff).
While we do not want to underemphasize the importance of belief, please understand that belief alone will never save anyone. In fact, the word belief never means mental acceptance only. Belief always means an active, obedient trust in God (Gal 5:6). You and I understand this in everyday life. For example, imagine I am out in the middle of the lake about to drown and a person comes along and throws me a life preserver. If I just believe that life preserver will save me and never do anything to “be saved” (Acts 2:40), will I be saved? Absolutely not! Just believing the life preserver would save me would have got me no closer to being saved. I must take steps of action such as reaching for the preserver, holding on and helping pull myself in. Likewise, there are steps of action associated with belief that one must take to be saved. It is so sad that there are thousands of denominational people who teach that all one must do to be saved is believe in Jesus and accept Him as your personal Savior. Nothing could be further than the truth. Did you know that the Bible never says faith only will save? In fact, the only time belief/faith only is ever used in the Bible, James says faith alone will not save a person (James 2:24). Isn’t it interesting that we say “faith only saves” and the Bible says the exact opposite. May we say with Paul, “Let God be true and every man a liar” (Romans 3:4).
Step #3: Repent of Sins
The third step in God’s plan of salvation is repentance. In Luke 13:3 Jesus expressed the necessity of repentance when He said, “unless you repent you shall all likewise perish.” Peter preached to the Jews that they needed to repent and be converted that their sins might be blotted out (Acts 3:19). Since repentance is such an important step in the plan of salvation, let’s examine what the Bible says repentance is.
Not Sorrow Alone. Many in our modern word equate repentance with crying and tears. While that may be part of repentance, it is not repentance in and of itself. For example, Paul stated that Godly sorrow produces repentance, but that it was not repentance alone (2 Cor. 7:10). Part of repentance is telling God how sorrowful we are for our sins, but it must go beyond that.
A Changed Will. Repentance is best defined as a changed will that leads to a changed way. In Matthew 21:28-30, Jesus tells us of a man who had two sons. To each of us his sons the father makes the request that they come and help him work in the field. The first son said he would but never did. The second son said he wouldn’t but then changed his mind and went and worked in the father’s field. Jesus then asked, “Which of these two did the will of the father”. They rightly said the latter. What made these two sons different? One repented: He changed his will and changed his way! Joel encouraged the Israelites to mend their hearts and not just their garments (Joel 2:13). The point Joel is making is very clear. We must not just have an outward sign of repentance, but a changed heart. One version renders Joel 2:13 as “tear your hearts not your garments”. True repentance implies that I must first be willing to change the way I think.
A Changed Way. The second part of repentance demands that we show our repentance by a changed life. John told the hypocritical Jews to “bring forth fruits worthy of repentance…” (Matt 3:8). Baptized believers are commanded to walk in a newness of life (Romans 6:4). Paul reminded the Corinthian Christians that they had once lived a sinful life, but were not living that way anymore (1 Cor. 6:9ff). To truly repent, one must change the way he thinks and the way he acts.
Step #4: Confess Jesus as Lord
In The fourth step in God’s plan of salvation is confession. The Apostle Paul reminded the Roman Christians that “with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation” (Rom. 10:10). From this text it evident that confession is an important part in the plan of salvation. Let’s take just a moment to see exactly what confession is.
A Confession of Faith in Christ. When one confesses that Jesus is the Christ, he is confessing his faith in the Son of God to save. A true follower of Christ will not be ashamed to be called a Christian in any situation. Paul said, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ…” (Rom. 1:16). When I confess my faith in Christ, it is a faithfulness I will never deny even if my life is at stake (Rev. 2:10). During the first century Christians often faced death by affirming their faith in Christ. One such story is that of Polycarp. Polycarp was taken before the Roman counsel and asked to deny faith in Christ. With great boldness Polycarp looked at the counsel that held his life in their hands and responded, “For Eighty and six years my Lord has not denied me, how can I then deny Him?” How great it would be if all Christian made the great confession with this much conviction!
A Confession of Faithfulness to Christ. An individual’s confession of Christ also means that he is willing to faithfully follow the Lord every day of his life. Jesus said, "Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven” (Mt. 10:32-33). The confession Jesus is speaking of here is not just simply naming the name of Christ. Jesus had already told many of these people that just simply saying “Lord” would not save anyone. Jesus is here speaking of a confession of faith in Christ through one’s actions. When I confess Jesus is the Son of God, I am confessing to follow him faithfully all the days of my life. Confession is more than a onetime act, it is a continual walk in the steps of the Savior (1 Peter 2:21).
Step #5: Be Immersed For the Remission of Sins
The final step in the plan of salvation that is overlooked by so many is the act of baptism. Most in our modern religious world would agree that a person needs to believe, repent, and confess Jesus as Lord to be saved. However, they would not teach or believe that a person must be baptized to be saved. Let’s let the Bible teach us on the necessity of being immersed into Christ. Notice the following New Testament passages.
In our religious world people often view the mode of baptism as sprinkling, pouring or immersion. Does the Bible allow for all three of these modes or any of these modes? Not at all! The Bible teaches that true baptism can only be performed by full body immersion. There are four passages that teach this to be true.
The first passage is Mark 1:9-10. This is Mark’s account of the baptism of Jesus. Mark records, “And immediately coming up from the water, He saw the heavens parting and the Spirit descending upon Him like a dove” (Mark 1:10, emph. mine). In the first part of this verse, Mark records that Jesus came up from the water. Question: What do you first have to do in order to come up out of the water? You must first go down into the water to come up out of it. It is clear from this passage that Jesus was immersed.
The second passage that proves baptism to be immersion is Acts 8:38. This is the account of the Ethiopian eunuch’s conversion. Luke records, “And he commanded the chariot to stand still. And both Phillip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him” (Acts 8:38, emph. mine). The mode of baptism under consideration here required Phillip and the eunuch to go down into the water. Why did they both have to go down into the water? If sprinkling were the mode in this case, there would have been no need for both of them to go down into the water. Either Phillip or the eunuch could have gone and retrieved the water.
A third passage that teaches baptism to be immersion is John 3:23. In this passage the Bible records that “…John also was baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there… (John 3:23, emph. mine). When reading this passage one must honestly ask himself, “Why did John need to be baptizing where there was much water?” Gospel Preacher Guy N. Woods has succinctly stated that this verse “…evidences the fact that ‘much water’ is essential to the act which John performed. Here is incidental mention of that which shows that baptism must have been by immersion since ‘much water’ is not needed for either sprinkling or pouring” (70).
A fourth passage that proves baptism to be immersion is Romans 6:1-4. In this context, baptism is likened to a burial. Stop and think back to the last time you went to a funeral. Do you remember what they did with the body after the services were over? Did they sprinkle a little dirt on the body? No. They buried the entire body under the ground, completely covering it on all sides. Likewise, the linking of baptism with the idea of a burial clearly shows that Paul, the inspired voice of God, recognized that baptism was by immersion.
If baptism in Scripture is always immersion, the next question is “What is the Purpose of Baptism?” Jesus clearly taught us the purpose of baptism when He said, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:16). It is clear from this text that Jesus believed and taught that baptism was essential to one’s salvation. A parallel to this language might be: He who eats and drinks will be filled. If a person eats only is he filled? No. If he only gets a drink is he filled? No. He is not filled until he eats and drinks. The same is true for baptism. Unless a person is willing to do all that God says, he will not be saved.
The Holy Spirit also confirmed the essential nature of baptism when He said, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:38). This is one of the clearest verses on the importance of baptism. The people on Pentecost asked what they needed to do to be saved from their sin. Peter responded to their question (how do we get rid of our sin problem?) by saying “you must repent and be baptized to have your sins forgiven. Peter clearly taught that baptism was FOR the remission of past sins.
At Paul’s conversion he was commanded to do the following. “And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16). From this text, we learn that the purpose of baptism is to wash away one’s sins. If baptism is the point at which one’s sins have been washed away, then those who have not been baptized have not had their sins washed away. Also, we learn how a person calls on the Lord’s name. Like Paul, a person calls on the Lord’s name by being baptized into Christ.
The Apostle Peter clearly stated, “baptism does now also save us” (1 Peter 3:21). One of the key words here is the little word also. Not alone. Combined with hearing God’s Word (Heb. 11:6), believing in Jesus Christ (John 8:24), Repenting of one’s past sins (Luke 13:3) and confessing Jesus as Lord (Rom. 10:10) one is saved. Truly, as the final condition of salvation baptism does wash one’s sins away. If the Apostle Peter said baptism does save us, how can we say baptism is not necessary for salvation?
Have you truly obeyed the gospel as the Bible teaches? There are many who will teach all you have to do to be saved is believe in Christ. That’s all. Nothing more is required. That is not the full plan of salvation. The Bible teaches that we are not saved “by faith only” (James 2:24). It is our prayer to God that you will study these very important matters and obey the will of God.
Study Questions
Who needs to be saved & What are the effects of sin on mankind?
Can you know you are saved? How can you know you are saved?
Does hearing the word of God mean you just accept whatever you hear as the gospel truth? List the two things that hearing really means?
Does the phrase “faith alone” occur in the New Testament? How many times does it occur? Does this passage support or refute the idea of faith only salvation?
What passage teaches us that repentance is not sorrow only?
Biblical repentance is defined as a changed will that leads to a changed way. List the verses offered to support this biblical definition.
The 4th step in God’s plan of salvation is confession. Is this a confession of sin? What does confession mean?
List and discuss the four verses offered to teach that baptism is full body immersion.
What are the purposes of baptism? Can you think of any additional purposes of baptism mentioned in the New Testament?
Does the Scripture say, “Baptism saves us”? What Scripture teaches this?
Heaven, Our Forever Home - Ben Bailey
“There remains therefore a rest for the people of God” (Heb. 4:9). With these words the Hebrews writer reminds us of our forever home—Heaven. Unlike the Israelites who were heading toward the physical home of Canaan, Christians are journeying toward our final destination of Heaven. As we think about that forever home each of us are probably made to ask, “What will Heaven really be like?” Notice how the Bible describes the beauty of Heaven.
Heaven, Our Forever Home
“There remains therefore a rest for the people of God” (Heb. 4:9). With these words the Hebrews writer reminds us of our forever home—Heaven. Unlike the Israelites who were heading toward the physical home of Canaan, Christians are journeying toward our final destination of Heaven. As we think about that forever home each of us are probably made to ask, “What will Heaven really be like?” Notice how the Bible describes the beauty of Heaven.
Our forever home will be a wonderful place of rest after the struggles of this life have ended. Each one of us gets tired after a long hard day of work. We enjoy putting up our feet at the end of a long day and relaxing. While earthly rest will not begin to compare to heavenly rest, what a joy it is to know that Heaven is a place of rest. There will be no more labor, toil, and striving against sin. The writer of Hebrews describes it in this way. “There remains a rest for the people of God” (Heb. 4:9). This rest contrasted with and was greater than the promise rest Joshua had given the people of Israel in Canaan (Heb. 4:1ff).
Our forever home will be great because it will be a place where we can worship God fully. Someone has said, “If you don’t enjoy worship here on earth, you probably won’t enjoy Heaven either.” Why? Because much of what we see going on in Heaven is worship to Almighty God. For example, in Revelation 4&5 those in Heaven are throwing down their crowns and worshipping God in song. This gives us insight as to what will happen in Heaven (Rev. 4:9-10).
Our forever home will be amazing because it is described as a place of endless joy. One of the great things about Heaven will be the absolute joy that God’s people possess. All of us will admit that one of the worst things about this life is sadness. Isn’t it wonderful to know that Heaven is a place of infinite joy? To the servant who used his talents to the glory of God Jesus said, “…enter into the joy of your Lord” (Matt. 25:21).
How wonderful it is to know that when the toils and struggles of this life are over and we hear the Words, “Well done, good and faithful servant enter into the joys of your Lord” that we can partake in all the wonder and beauty of our Heavenly Home. May God help each of us to life in such a way that Heaven will be our forever home! --Ben Bailey
5 Steps to A Stable Relationship with God from Psalm 15 - Ben Bailey
1. The Person Who is Concerned About Living with God Will Have a Stable Relationship with Him. Notice what was on the Psalmist's mind when He asked, “Lord, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy Hill?” (Psalm 15:1). If a person is concerned about His soul and living with God for eternity, He is not only going to be thinking about that regularly but working toward achieving that goal (Col. 3:1-3).
5 Steps to A Stable Relationship with God from Psalm 15
1. The Person Who is Concerned About Living with God Will Have a Stable Relationship with Him. Notice what was on the Psalmist's mind when He asked, “Lord, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy Hill?” (Psalm 15:1). If a person is concerned about His soul and living with God for eternity, He is not only going to be thinking about that regularly but working toward achieving that goal (Col. 3:1-3).
2. The Person of Integrity Will have a Stable Relationship with God. The Psalmist answers his own question by stating, “He who walks uprightly, And works righteousness, And speaks the truth in his heart” (Psalm 15:2). Joseph reminds us of real integrity when he was in the house with Potiphar's wife and no one was watching he still said, “How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” (Gen. 39:9). If you have the integrity to do right simply because it’s the right thing to do, you are on the right track to a stable relationship with God.
3. The Person Who Really Loves His Neighbor As Himself will have a Stable Relationship with God. The Psalmist emphasized our need to love our neighbor when He said, “He who does not backbite with his tongue, Nor does evil to his neighbor, Nor does he take up a reproach against his friend” (Psalm 15:3). How we treat other people is a direct indicator of how much we love God and are concerned about our relationship with Him. The Apostle John reminds us, “If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen” (1 John 4:20).
4. The Person Who is Honorable will Have a Stable Relationship with God. David noted that the honorable person is one “In whose eyes a vile person is despised, But he honors those who fear the Lord; He who swears to his own hurt and does not change” (Psalm 15:4). Jules Renard reminds us of the challenge to be honorable when he said, “It is more difficult to be an honorable man for a week than to be a hero for fifteen minutes.”
5. The Person who is Honest in His Dealings will have a Stable Relationship with God. The Holy Spirit encourages each of us to be honest when He says, “He who does not put out his money at usury, Nor does he take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never be moved” (Psalm 15:5). Not only is honesty the “best policy” it is God’s policy. As each of us strives to live with God forever may these 5 guiding principles help us to one day make God’s tabernacle our permanent dwelling place!
--Ben Bailey
Christ’s Death, Burial, and Resurrection—And Ours - Ben Bailey
“What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:1-4). At the heart and core of the Gospel are the Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 15:1-3). This blockbuster event is the greatest expression of love and sacrifice anyone has ever known (Rom. 5:6-8). Yet, these events also parallel the Christian’s conversion and commitment to the Savior who died for them (2 Cor. 5:14-15). Notice Christ’s Death, Burial, and Resurrection and ours.
Christ’s Death, Burial, and Resurrection—And Ours
“What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:1-4). At the heart and core of the Gospel are the Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 15:1-3). This blockbuster event is the greatest expression of love and sacrifice anyone has ever known (Rom. 5:6-8). Yet, these events also parallel the Christian’s conversion and commitment to the Savior who died for them (2 Cor. 5:14-15). Notice Christ’s Death, Burial, and Resurrection and ours.
Christ’s Death & Mine. The Scriptures teach that Jesus died for sin (2 Cor. 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24). He suffered in his physical body so that we don’t have to face the spiritual penalty of sin (John 3:16; Isa. 53:4). The agony, torment, and pain he suffered was to free men from the slavery of sin (Rom. 6:17). In parallel to that, the Christian dies to sin when he obeys the Gospel. Paul asked the rhetorical question, “How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it” (Romans 6:2)? Of course, the answer is You Can Not. When I make the decision to obey the Gospel, I put to death my “members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry” (Col 3:5). When we repent of sin, we turn from it and turn to God (1 Thess. 1:9-10). At this point, I have reenacted Christ’s death for sin by putting sin to death in my life.
Christ’s Burial & Mine. As we read the story of Jesus' death, the Scriptures next emphasize His burial. Jesus prophesied that he would not only die but be buried in the grave for three days (Mt. 12:40). And the Scriptures record that is exactly what happened (Mark 15:42-47). With this event in mind, Paul now draws a parallel between Jesus’ burial and ours when He says, “Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death” (Rom. 6:4). In fact, Paul would say it is at the point of our burial in water when we contact the saving death of Jesus Christ. Notice these words: “Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?” (Rom. 6:3). Just as it was necessary for Christ to be buried in the earth to show His power over death, we must be buried with Him in water to contact His death that saves (Mark 16:16; 1 Peter 3:21; Acts 2:38). With this truth in mind, why would anyone ever want to deny the essentiality of baptism and its correlation to Jesus’ death?
Christ’s Resurrection & Mine. The climax of the Gospel story is found in Jesus’ resurrection and ultimate victory over death. The Scriptures teach this is the point at which Jesus dealt the ultimate death blow to death itself and overcame its power over mankind (Heb. 2:14-15). When Christ arose from the grave, He gave living proof to all men that He is the Resurrection and the life and whoever believes in Him will never really die (John 11:25). Just as Christ rose from the dead, the Christian also reenacts the resurrection in His obedience to the Gospel. The Holy Spirit says, “just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so, we also should walk in newness of life” (Rom. 6:4). When one comes out of the water as a new creature (2 Cor. 5:17) he now has a new outlook and a new purpose in life (Phil. 1:19-21). And, just as Jesus vanquished death through His resurrection, we have been set from the bonds of sin and death by obeying the Gospel (Rom. 6:17-18).
So What/Now What? How wonderful it is that every person who has obeyed the Gospel is a living and breathing testament to the Death, Burial, and Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Truly, we should let our light so shine before men that they may see our good works and glorify our Father who is in Heaven (Mt. 5:16). Like the Macedonians, may it be said of us “You are our epistle…known and read by all men” (2 Cor. 3:2). Also, my friend, if you have not obeyed the Gospel then the Death, Burial, and Resurrection of our Lord has not become a part of your life yet, and you are still lost in sin (Rom. 6:23). But the good news is you can do something about that today. Won’t you submit to God’s will by dying to sin (Luke 13:3), being buried with Christ in baptism (Rom. 6:1-4), and rising out of the watery grave victorious over sin and death with a new outlook on life? We hope and pray that each of us will treasure our Lord’s sacrifice by living in such a way that it brings honor to Him every day! –Ben Bailey
Principles for Good Christian Living - Ben Bailey
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.” (1 Thess. 5:16-22). To encourage Christians in their faith, Paul concludes his letter to the Thessalonians with some final admonitions for Christian Living. Notice these 4 principles for good Christian living.
Principles for Good Christian Living
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.” (1 Thess. 5:16-22). To encourage Christians in their faith, Paul concludes his letter to the Thessalonians with some final admonitions for Christian Living. Notice these 4 principles for good Christian living.
Principle #1: Be Joyful (1 Thess. 5:16). Joy should be a hallmark characteristic of every Christian’s life. Paul encouraged us to “rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice” (Phil. 4:4). Everyone wants to find joy and having joy always makes a person’s life better. Solomon taught us in the Book of Proverbs that a happy spirit is good for the soul. He said, “A merry heart does good, like medicine” (Prov. 17:22). If we are going to win the world to Jesus, we need to show people the joyous life of a Christian.
Principle #2: Be Prayerful (1 Thess. 5:17). Isn’t it great to know you are not in the fight of faith alone (1 Tim. 6:12; Phil. 4:13)? As a child of God, we have one of the most powerful spiritual tools you could ever imagine—We can communicate with the All-Powerful Creator of the Universe, and we know He hears us and knows our needs. The Apostle John said, “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us” (1 John 5:14). Remember, “the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man overcomes much” (James 5:16).
Principle #3: Be Thankful (1 Thess. 5:18). Eli Wiesel once said, “When a person doesn’t have gratitude, something is missing in his or her humanity.” How true this statement is for a Christian! God wants us to have a thankful heart. Do you remember the haunting question Jesus asked the one leper who returned to give thanks? “Where are the nine?” (Luke 17:17). A thankful person will always make a greater impact on the world, the lost, and in the kingdom of God than one who simply takes things for granted. We could all learn a lot from the word of Zig Ziglar on ingratitude, "Be grateful for what you have and stop complaining -- it bores everybody else, does you no good, and doesn't solve any problems."
Principle #4: Be Careful (1 Thess. 5:19-22). In this section of Scripture Paul mentions 4 areas in which the Christian must be careful. Be careful… (1) Not to quench the spirit (vs. 19)—don’t put out the spirit’s fire in our lives (Jer. 20:9) (2) Not to Reject the Word of God (vs. 20)—Don’t stop listening to God’s Word (Heb. 4:12) (3) To test everything (vs. 21)—Be like the Bereans and search the Scriptures daily (Acts 17:11) (4) To Abstain from every type of evil—Hate what is evil cling to what is good (Rom. 12:9).
In a world that is filled with so much hypocrisy and so many things that are for lack of a better word “fake” let’s be the real thing! Let’s put these 4 principles for good Christian living to use and be the best Christian we can be every day! --Ben Bailey
God Hates Strife in the Body - Ben Bailey
The Psalmist issued a challenge to all of God’s people when he said, “behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity” (Ps. 133:1). In the New Testament Christians are encouraged by Paul to “endeavor to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:3). While unity and peace is God’s ideal standard, sometimes, Christians don't act the way they should and strife is created. What is it that causes this strife and how do we deal with strife in the body of Christ?
God Hates Strife in the Body
The Psalmist issued a challenge to all of God’s people when he said, “behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity” (Ps. 133:1). In the New Testament Christians are encouraged by Paul to “endeavor to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:3). While unity and peace is God’s ideal standard, sometimes, Christians don't act the way they should and strife is created. What is it that causes this strife and how do we deal with strife in the body of Christ?
One of the chief causes of strife among God’s people is evil or perversion in one’s heart. Since sin is a heart problem, it should come as no surprise that strife is generated in the heart of man. The Proverbs writer said, “A perverse man sows strife…” (Prov. 16:28). When someone is not following the Spirit of Christ in their life, strife is going to come.
A failure to control the tongue is another cause of strife. In fact, this may be the chief reason for strife in the body of Christ today. Solomon said, “A fool’s lips walk into a fight, and his mouth invites a beating” (Prov. 18:6). When we are so busy talking that we forget to think about what we are saying, chances are we may be saying things we shouldn’t.
How then do you stop strife? People who are always belittling or making fun of others must be silenced. The Proverbs writer said, “Cast out the scoffer, and contention will leave; Yes, strife and reproach will cease” (Prov. 22:10). To avoid strife—mind your own business! The Bible says, “He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own Is like who takes a dog by the ears” (Prov. 26:17). To stop strife, gossip must be stopped. Scripture says, “Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; And where there is no talebearer, strife ceases” (Prov. 26:20).
Another main cause of strife in the Body of Christ is pride. When people think they are better than others and look down on or belittle other people to make themselves feel better, it is guaranteed to create strife. The Wise sage said, “By pride comes nothing but strife, But with the well-advised is wisdom” (Prov. 13:10).
May each of us remember that God hates it when people cause strife in His church. “These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren” (Prov. 6:16-19). Just as Jesus prayed for unity in His church, may we make it or aim to only say and do those things that build up the body of Christ (John 17:20-21).
God's All-Sufficient Grace - Ben Bailey
Like many of us today, Paul had a “thorn in the flesh”. This was a trial of some kind that gave him much grief. This “thorn in the flesh” bothered Paul so much that he prayed to the Lord three times to remove it. To Paul’s request, God responded by saying, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" (2 Cor 12:9).
God’s All-Sufficient Grace
Like many of us today, Paul had a “thorn in the flesh”. This was a trial of some kind that gave him much grief. This “thorn in the flesh” bothered Paul so much that he prayed to the Lord three times to remove it. To Paul’s request, God responded by saying, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" (2 Cor 12:9). Instead of removing Paul’s infirmity, God reminds Paul of the all-sufficiency of His grace. This same strength that God promised Paul should also apply directly to us when we face difficulty. Instead of dwelling on our problems, we should be able to look beyond those problems to the grace and love of God. Here is how we can do just that.
Look beyond your problems. The Apostle Paul eloquently stated, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Rom. 8:18). Instead of getting discouraged and down about our problems and difficulties, we need to realize that our problems are not even a drop in the bucket compared to the beauty of Heaven. Too many times we focus on the physical world of suffering and forget that we are headed to Heaven. Let’s move beyond our physical problems and see the joy of Heaven.
Look above your problems. The brother of the Lord reminded us of the benefit of suffering when he said, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4). Instead of focusing on the negative aspects of suffering, we must be able to look above our problems to the good they can bring us. Imagine how closely attached to this world we might be if there were no suffering. James reminds us that we must be able to rejoice at the difficulties we have because they help us grow as Christians.
While trials are going to come to each of us, we must remember that God’s grace is sufficient to help us deal with our trials. When we remember that Heaven will be worth it all and that suffering helps us grow, we can overcome our suffering with God’s grace. May God give us the strength to remain faithful to His all-sufficient grace.