We welcome into the membership of the congregation any scripturally baptized and faithful Christian who wants to work and worship under the leadership or qualified elders of this congregation. 

 

Scriptural baptism is immersion of a penitent believer who has been taught the truth and who after confession of faith in Christ obeys in baptism in order to have forgiveness of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Acts 8:37-39; 22:16; Romans 6:3-4; et al.)  It is important to declare membership in a local congregation.

 

Why Declare Membership At A Local Congregation? - By Kevin Cauley

 

This question recently came up in some of my Internet studies with online friends. The question centers on whether or not it is necessary to be identified as a member of a local congregation. The Bible doesn't have a process whereby one may "join" the church such as are followed in the denominational world. However, the Bible does authorize individual Christians to be members of local congregations (1 Corinthians 12:27

For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. 13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For the body is not one member, but many.

15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. 19 And if they were all one member, where were the body? 20 But now are they many members, yet but one body. 21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. 22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. 24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked.

25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. 26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. 27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.). So there must be some way for Christians to be members of local congregations. And there is. 

 

Let me state up front that for someone who is not a Christian, to become a member of the church of Christ, one must be added by the Lord to the church (Acts 2:47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.). Upon baptism, provided the individual lives within the local community, it is right and proper to assume the individual to be a member of the local congregation. This was the general practice within the New Testament ( Acts 2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls., 47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.; 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.). Our question is more appropriately asked when a person moves from his home congregation to another. Must that individual place membership with a local congregation? Let's note some reasons why the answer to this question should be "yes."

 

First, the individual Christian ought to declare membership in a local congregation to assure the leaders that he is subject to their authority. Hebrews 13:17 states, "Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you." The rulers of the local congregation have a responsibility to watch for the souls of individual Christians. Individual Christians have the responsibility to make their job easier by submitting to their judgment. There should be no doubt as to the status of the individual Christian in relationship to the rulers. However, if someone does not declare membership, this creates doubt and uncertainty in the minds of the rulers as to whether they have the appropriate authority. Why? Because rulers only have authority over members of the local congregation; they do not have authority over those who are not members of the local congregation. If the individual Christian seeks to please God in obeying Hebrews 13:17, he will declare membership in a local congregation.

 

Second, the individual Christian ought to declare membership in a local congregation to let his fellow Christians know that he is there to work with them. The church is to be involved in doing the work of the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.). And each individual contributes to that work as he has ability (1 Peter 4:11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.). The local congregation is thus expected to do the Lord's work (2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:, Colossians 1:10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God (KJV); 10 so that you might live in a manner worthy of the Lord and be fully pleasing to him[a] as you bear fruit while doing all kinds of good things and growing in the full knowledge of God. (ISV)) and the individual is expected to do his work heartily (Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, work at it wholeheartedly as though you were doing it[a]for the Lord and not merely for people.). Without declaring such membership, other members wonder whether or not one has the intentions of involving oneself in the work of the local church, and thus, in the work of the Lord as well. Declaring one's membership with a local congregation, lets that congregation know that one is available and ready to do the work that needs to be done in the local church. Declaring membership exhibits the "heartiness" that the Lord desires us to have regarding his work.

 

Finally, the individual Christian ought to declare membership in a local congregation to indicate his full fellowship with the local congregation. Fellowship isn't merely having a meal together or playing games together. Fellowship is participation within the activities of the congregation, regardless what those activities may be (Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.). We have fellowship when we study God's word together in our Bible classes, when we worship God in our assembly, when we visit the nursing home together, or when we support a particular work with our finances. The individual Christian should want to have full fellowship with other Christians (1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.). Without declaring membership at a local congregation, an individual's intentions aren't fully known. However, when one declares membership one indicates full fellowship with the local congregation.

 

The individual Christian certainly has the God given right to faithfully congregate with a particular congregation of his choice (Acts 9:26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.).

However, it is also God's desire for a Christian to be a member of the local church (1 Corinthians 12:18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.).

Combining those two facts together with the above reasons we can conclude that it is biblical and necessary for the individual Christian to declare membership at a local, faithful, congregation of his choice.

 

 

 

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PASTOR APPRECIATION?

 

 

 

THIS ARTICLE WAS USED FROM SOUTH SIDE CHURCH OF CHRIST IN ILLINOIS

 

klziegler ♦ December 28, 2006 ♦ Leave Your Comment

 

I want to use this column to show my appreciation for our “pastors” here at South Side. Before I do, let me deal with several thoughts that may already be running through your mind.

 

Maybe you are thinking—I thought that “Pastor Appreciation” was October. Well, it might be in the denominational world, but we are anti-denominational. If you don’t know what that means, ask me later. We should appreciate “pastors” ALL year long!

 

Then you may also be thinking that I am simply writing an article to appreciate myself. That wouldn’t be a very humble attitude to have! But according to the New Testament, I am not a “pastor”. And if that isn’t shocking enough to you, read on.

 

You may be thinking also—I thought South Side only had one “pastor”. Even if I was a “pastor”, I would not be THE “pastor”. At South Side we don’t have just one “pastor”, we have six! Yes, you read that number right—SIX! In fact, if we only had one “pastor”, we would not be biblical. In the New Testament church, there was always a plurality of “pastors”.

 

South Side is a people of the Book. South Side calls Bible things by Bible names; and does Bible things in Bible ways. That is why at South Side, we do not follow the popular view of “THE pastor” run church. Just because everyone else is doing it, does not make it biblical! Rather at South Side we try to go back and restore the pattern for church leadership from the New Testament. That is why we have six “pastors”. These “pastors” are the shepherds of the flock. These “pastors” are the overseers of the body of Christ. These “pastors” are, if you haven’t guessed it already, the elders of the church.

 

So when I think of “pastor appreciation”, I think of our group of elders. I think of how much they should be appreciated by us (and not just during the month of October).

 

The New Testament is very clear on the subject of the eldership in the church. These “pastors” are best described by the terms used in the New Testament.

 

* Elders—

 

Acts 11:30 Which also they did , and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.;

Acts 14:23 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed .; Acts 15:2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.;

I Timothy 5:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.;

Titus 1:5 For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting , and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee:; James 5:14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:;

I Peter 5:1 The elders which are among you I exhort , who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed :

 

* Bishops (Overseers)—

 

Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.;

Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:;

I Timothy 3:2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;;

I Peter 2:25 For ye were as sheep going astray ; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

 

* Pastors (Shepherds)—

 

Ephesians 4:11 'And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastorsand teachers;

 

All of these terms are referring to the same function! I love the way Luke describes the function of the “pastors” from Ephesus. In Acts 20:17, Luke writes, “From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called to him the elders of the church.” Notice he calls the “pastors” “elders” in the text. Then talking to the same group of men (the elders from Ephesus), Luke records for us in Acts 20:28, “Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd (or pastor) the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.” In this verse Luke records the words of the Apostle Paul as he refers to the elders as “overseers” who are to “shepherd” (or pastor) the church of God.

 

The Apostle Peter then uses all three terms in his first epistle to describe the elders. Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed, shepherd (or pastor) the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock. (I Peter 5:1–3)

With all that said, I am very thankful for all six of our “pastors”. They are very godly men. I am very honored to serve with them at South Side. I take advantage of every opportunity that I can to spend time with them. We are all very blessed to have them as our “pastors”, “elders”, and “overseers”.

 

Let me encourage you to show your appreciation for our “pastors” also. Here are a few things that you can do:

 

* Pray for them DAILY!

* Encourage them every chance you get!

* Remember, they are mere men, and do make mistakes.

* Allow them to pastor the flock—they have the desire to do so!

* Remember they are a team—a group. They are united. No one elder is the “head” elder. The chief “pastor” is Jesus (I Peter 5:4).

Lawrence, Larry, Denny, Dick, Myreon and Len: Thanks for your service for the Lord here at South Side. Thank you for leading us by your examples. We appreciate all of you men serving as our “pastors”.

 

Your evangelist (Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;),

Kevin 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Bible Only makes Christians Only! http://www.restorationplea.com

 

Used from http://deaconspeakin.blogspot.com/search/label/First%20John

 

Deacon Speakin

 

Though this is primarily intended to address matters of faith I may from time to time include thoughts on other subjects. It is after all my personal bit of the internet so I reserve that right. Regardless I hope you enjoy your time here. Comments are welcomed.

 

Sunday, January 13, 2013

 

 

Mark 9:38-40 Explained

 

 

Wayne Jackson authored this piece which appeared in the May, 1975 edition of The Christian Courier which was published by the East Main Street Church of Christ in Stockton, California and edited by Jackson. 

Q. Please explain Mark 9:38-40. Could this teach in principle that there are Christians outside of the body of Christ?

A. Certainly not. Salvation is found only in Christ. (II Timothy 2:10) And those who are "in Christ" are in His spiritual body, the church. (Colossians 1:18) Jesus has promised to save no except those who are in His body (Ephesians 5:23) and this should settle the matter for all who respect the authority of the Bible. It is true however, that some are frequently appealing to the passage cited above in an attempt to justify sincere denominationalists. Let us therefore, carefully examine these verses.

"Now John answered Him, saying, 'Teacher, we saw someone who does not follow us casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow us.' But Jesus said, 'Do not forbid him, for no one who works a miracle in My name can soon afterward speak evil of Me. For he who is not against us in on our side.'" (Cf. Luke 9:49-50)

Now from this incident the following case is built. Here was a man not with Jesus and the disciples, but he was doing good; hence, the disciples were not to oppose him. Similarly, there are many good people today who are not with us (i.e., not members of the Church of Christ but are within other religious groups). We must therefore, not oppose them for even thought they are not "with us" they are nevertheless serving the Lord in their own way. This is a gross perversion of the truth! It not only ignores the very language of this specific context, it also disregards the general teaching of the Bible on the necessity of dealing with error. The facts are as follows.

JOHN'S TESTIMONY - Since John was an eye witness to this situation, his testimony is critical in determining the facts of the case. The apostle affirms concerning this unknown exorcist: (a) he was casting out demons; (b) he was doing such in Christ's name. We have no reason to doubt John's statement. In fact, since he was complaining about the man, his testimony to the genuineness of the miracles becomes all the more valuable. Viewing the matter from another angle, it is important to note: (a) John does not charge the man with teaching error; (b) he does not contend that the man falsely claimed the ability to expel demons (as in the case mentioned by the Lord in Matthew 7:22-23); (c) nor does the apostle suggest that the exorcism was a mere pretense. Demons were perfectly capable of discerning the difference between those who were true exorcists and those who merely feigned such; see Acts 19:13-16. Finally, John does not accuse the man of misappropriating Christ's name. His sole charge is, "he does not follow us."

THE LORD'S REPLY - Jesus declared, "Do not forbid him." The force of the Greek text is literally, "stop hindering him." The Savior then revealed exactly why the man was not to be hindered. "For no one who works a miracle in My name can soon afterward speak evil of Me." An analysis of this statement reveals the following details: (a) Christ acknowledges that the man is performing mighty works, i.e., genuine miracles; (b) these miracles were being done "in" (Greek: epi) the Lord's name, meaning "on the ground of My authority," (Vine, Expository Dictionary, III, p. 100.) and (c) the man was obviously teaching the truth since his message was supported by a spiritual gift.

SOME CONCLUSIONS: In view of the foregoing facts, certain conclusions are clear. This exorcist had been commissioned by Jesus to both teach and cast out demons. This is evident from the fact that supernatural signs were always connected with teaching. They were never simply works of compassion per se. Since the performance of miracles (including demon expulsion) was to CONFIRM the message being proclaimed (Mark 16:17-20; Hebrews 2:3-4) this man was most certainly not teaching error. Rather, he was accurately instructing his contemporaries regarding Jesus Christ.

Moreover, Jesus plainly indicated that though this man was not "with" them (in their immediate company) he was nevertheless "for" them as far as unity of labor was concerned. The Master's argument, logically arranged, would be as follows. (a) No man, performing genuine miracles, is able to quickly speak evil of Christ. (b) But this man was performing genuine miracles. (c) He thus was not speaking evil against the Lord. Furthermore, (a) Those not against the Lord were obviously for Him. (b) But this man was not against Him. (c) He was therefore, FOR Christ and this is precisely why the disciples were not to hinder his work. 

These facts being clearly seen, it is evident that there is absolutely no parallel between this Biblical incident and modern day attempts to countenance error in sectarian bodies. This is true first of all, because denominational groups are not now nor have they ever been FOR CHRIST. They had their origin without His authority and have been perpetuated in rebellion to Him. Secondly, they do not teach uncorrupted truth, but defile His gospel with human dogma. The Savior would never have condoned that exorcist's activity had he been preaching unsound words. And we cannot uphold those who peddle Satan's doctrine today. Rather, we must oppose such teaching and in kindness attempt to lead its exponents into a knowledge of God's truth.

 

 

Posted by J. L. at 11:06 PM 

Why not believe in the eternal existence of God in three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? 

 

(John 1:1-3 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made .,

John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.; Matthew 28:18-20 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying , All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo , I am with you alway , even unto the end of the world. Amen.;

2 Corinthians 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.). 

 

Why not believe in the deity of Christ and the redemptive work of His cross?  

 

Why not believe in His literal resurrection, which serves as the anchor of our hope of everlasting life? 

 

(Matthew 16:16 And Simon Peter answered and said , Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.;

Ephesians 2:14-16 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; 15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; 16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby :;

Matthew 28:1-6 In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. 2 And, behold , there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. 3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: 4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake , and became as dead men. 5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified . 6 He is not here: for he is risen , as he said . Come , see the place where the Lord lay . ;

2 Corinthians 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.). 

 

Why not believe that the Holy Spirit indwells each Christian and is providentially active in the life of every true follower of Christ? 

 

(Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent , and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.; 

Galatians 4:6  And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying , Abba, Father.;

Romans 8:9-14 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. 10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. 12 Therefore , brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die : but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live . 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.). 

 

Why not believe that  the Bible is God's divinely inspired and all-sufficient Word and therefore our guide for life, conduct, and doctrine?

 

(2 Timothy 3:16, 17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughlyfurnished unto all good 

works.). 

 

Why not believe that salvation results from the grace and mercy of God who calls us to obedience, accountability to Him, and union with Him.  

 

(Ephesians 2:8, 9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast .;

Matthew 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.; Hebrews 5:8, 9 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered ; 9 And being made perfect , he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;;

Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:,

Ephesians 1:7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

 2 Timothy 2:10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.). 

 

Why not believe that we establish a relationship with Christ through faith, repentance, and baptism? 

 

Why not believe that baptism is immersion, based on one's personal affirmation that Jesus Christ is the Son of God?

 

(Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is , and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.;

John 8:24 I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.;

Luke 13:3 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent , ye shall all likewise perish .;

Mark 16:15, 16 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved ; but he that believeth not shall be damned .;

Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent , and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.;

Acts 8:35-39 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. 36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said , See , here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized ? 37 And Philip said , If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said , I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. 38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still : and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. 39 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip , that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing .;

Romans 6:1-7 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound ? 2 God forbid . How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein ? 3 Know ye not , that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed , that henceforth we should not serve sin. 7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.;  Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.)

Colossians 2:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

 

We believe that every soul will be resurrected to appear before God in judgment, resulting in either eternal life in heaven or eternal punishment in hell?

 

(John 5:28, 29  Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming , in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, 29 And shall come forth ; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.;

Matthew 25:45, 46 Then shall he answer them, saying , Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. 46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.;

2 Corinthians 5:10  For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done ,whether it be good or bad.). 

 

Why not believe that the church established by Christ is undenominational and that undenominational Christianity exists today wherever people believe and obey the pure and unadulterated teaching of the New Testament?  

 

( Matthew 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.;

John 17:20, 21 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.;

1 Corinthians 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.;

Ephesians 4:1-6 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called , 2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; 3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.). 

 

Why not believe that all people are free to read and study God's Word for themselves, to form conclusions based on their study of that Word, and to hold those conclusions without the fear of human intimidation?  

 

(2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.). 

 

Why not believe that certain patterns evident among first century Christians are standards for the work and worship of today's church?   

 

These include: 

 

Weekly observance of the Lord's Supper on the first day of the week.

 

(Acts 20:7 And upon the first day of the week, when 

the disciples came together to break bread, Paulpreached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.)

 

Weekly freewill offerings collected on the first day of the week.

 

(1 Corinthians 16:1, 2 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia,even so do ye. 2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store , as Godhath prospered him , that there be no gatherings when I come .).

 

 

A cappella (vocal) music in public worship.

(Ephesians 5:19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;

 

Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. ;

 

Hebrews 13:15

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is , the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

 

Revelation 22:18, 19

For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: 19And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.).

 

Congregational leadership by biblically qualified elders and congregational service by biblically qualified deacons.  

 

(Acts 14:23 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed;

 

I Timothy 3:1-13 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. 2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; 4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) 6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

 8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; 9 Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.

10 And let these also first be proved ; then let them use the office of a deacon , being found blameless. 11 Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. 12 Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.;

 

Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:).  

 

Preaching of the word of God in the assembly

 

Acts 20:7 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.

 

2 Timothy 4:1-5  

1 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;

2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.

3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.

 

Romans 10:14 

How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

 

Prayer

 

I Timothy 2:8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.

 

Why not believe all of this neighbor, because the BIBLE reveals in scripture how we are to practice by faith and believe these things that were written in the word of God and seek to have no divisions or patterns of worship according to scripture.

 

John 6:45 It is written in the prophets, And they  shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard , and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. 

 

Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

 

 

 

 

 

When You Willfully Miss A Church Service

 

 

Originally printed in Matter of Fact, this is copied from the August 27, 1872 edition ofReminders, which was published by the Moundsville Church of Christ in Moundsville, West Virginia. Paul C. Keller was the editor.

Despite what you may tell yourself and others, your actions prove that God and Christ are not first in your life. You claim to be like Christ but there is one way you are very unlike Him. He loved the church enough to die for it. You do not love it enough to sacrifice anything so that you may attend its services.

You tear down the teaching done to new converts and become a poor example for them to follow. If they get to heaven some day, it will be in spite of you and not because of you. You disappoint Jesus, who is present every time two or three gather in His name. He knows you aren't there and He knows why you are not there.

You leave no doubt in the minds of your faithful brethren that there are other things that you enjoy more than worship and that there are earthly pleasures that you prefer more than Christian fellowship.

You weaken you soul, put yourself on the side of the devil, hurt the influence of the church, discourage the preacher and those in charge of teaching Bible classes and make it impossible to teach your child and your neighbors how important church really is.

"And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' teaching and in fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in prayers." (Acts 2:42).

"Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together as the manner of some is." (Hebrews 10:25)

 

 

Posted by J. L. at 3:52 AM No comments: 

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Wednesday, March 19, 2014

 

 

 

IF?

 

 

This was written by Clovis Caudle and appeared in the November 28, 1971 edition ofReminders which was published by the Moudsville Church of Christ in Moundsville, West Virginia. Paul C. Keller was the editor.

 

IF God promised to give faith when asked for it, without conditions, why did Paul tell us that faith comes by hearing the word of God? (Romans 10:17)

 

IF faith alone is a most wholesome doctrine and very full of comfort, why did James say faith without works is dead? (James 2:20)

 

IF God has promised to save man regardless of the kind of faith he has, why did Paul make it so plain that there is ONE faith? (Ephesians 4:5)

 

IF one becomes a Christian when he believes, why was King Agrippa not a Christian? (Acts 26:27-28)

 

IF one can be saved without wholehearted obedience to the Lord, why did Paul say, "...obeyed from the heart"? (Romans 6:17-18)

 

IF sprinkling and pouring are scriptural baptism, why did Paul say there is ONE baptism? (Ephesians 4:5)

 

IF the Lord has promised salvation without baptism, why did Peter say it saves? (1 Peter 3:21)

 

IF we can receive remission of sins without baptism, why did Peter say that baptism is for the remission of sins? (Acts 2:38)

 

IF we can get into Christ without baptism, why did Paul say that we are baptized into Christ? (Galatians 3:27)

 

IF we are born again of the Spirit only, why did Christ say be born of the water and the Spirit? (John 3:5)

 

IF infant baptism is scriptural, why did Christ command to baptize those who believe? (Mark 16:16) An infant cannot believe!

 

IF infants are sinners, why did Christ teach that we must become like them to be saved? (Matthew 18:3)

 

IF God has promised salvation out of the church, why did Christ die for it? (Acts 20:28)

 

IF the church has nothing to do with our salvation, why does the Lord add the saved to the church? (Acts 2:47)

 

IF the kingdom of Christ is yet to be built, why did Paul say he was in the kingdom? (Colossians 1:13)

 

IF Christ is coming to earth to set up a kingdom, why did Paul make it so plain that Christ is coming for it and deliver it to the Father? (1 Corinthians 15:24)

 

IF the word of God is able to save man, what need have we for another saving power? (John 8:32)

 

IF musical instruments are to be used in connection with the worship in songs, why did Paul omit the and teach us to sing? (Colossians 3:16)

 

IF there is nothing in a name, why did the writer of the book of Acts say that salvation is in the name of Christ? (Acts 4:12)

 

IF a child of God cannot be lost eternally, why did Paul, when writing to the church at Corinth, tell them that no fornicator or adulterer shall inherit the kingdom of God? (1 Corinthians 6:9-11)

 

IF God has promised to save man without a condition on man's part, why did Jesus say, "I tell you, nay, but except you repent, you shall all likewise perish? (Luke 13:3)

 

 

Are We Under the Ten Commandments?

 

 

W. R. Jones wrote this article which appeared in the September 30, 1973 edition ofReminders. The paper was published by the Moundsville Church of Christ in Moundsville, West Virginia.

Many people believe that the Ten Commandments compose the law for guidance in religious conduct today. No doubt, you have heard people say, "What we need to do is return to the Ten Commandments" or, "If we keep the Ten Commandments, we are sure to be saved."

These laws were the best code of laws ever given to men, prior to the laws of Christ. They served admirably in the place and time for which they were designed by Jehovah. The law of God given to Moses, called the law of Moses (including the Ten Commandments) was not God's final will to man. It was perfect for the purpose for which it was given, "as a schoolmaster" to bring the Jews to God (Galatians 3:24).

It was temporary in that it was to continue only until Christ made His laws effective (Galatians 3:16, 19).

A person today could keep the Ten Commandments to the letter and still not be a Christian. One who does not believe in Christ could keep the moral principles of the Ten Commandments but certainly, one who does not believe in Christ could not be a Christian.

"For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ" (John 1:17). The law given by Jehovah through Moses, dealt with the act that was wrong. The truth of God given through Christ deals with the wrong thought behind the act that is wrong. The law of Moses pointed sin out but offered no complete forgiveness. The law of Christ points sin out and gives the remedy for absolute remission of sins.

Note: The sixth commandment said, "Thou shalt not kill" (Exodus 20:13). Jesus said, "Whosoever hates his brother is a murderer...(1 John 3:15). The seventh commandment said, "Thou shalt not commit adultery" (Exodus 20:14). Jesus said, "Whosoever looks upon a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). This illustrates the fact that the law of God given by Christ is far above the limitations of the law of God given by Moses. Christ deals with the higher aspects of Godliness in purifying the heart of man.

God has given a better covenant through Christ than He gave through Moses. The book of Hebrews was written almost wholly to show this to be so. The law of God given by Moses, including the Ten Commandments, falls far short of the better law revealed through Jesus Christ.

The law of God given through Moses (including the Ten Commandments), says nothing about the following:
1. Christ as Savior
2. The saving blood of Christ shed for remission of sins
3. The church and its worship
4. The gospel of Christ
5. The cross of Christ
Christ fulfilled the law of Moses (Matthew 5:17) and took it out of the way, nailing it to the cross (Colossians 2:14). He brought in a, "better covenant with better promises" (Hebrews 8:6).

The Ten Commandments were done away with. Paul wrote that the, "ministrations of death, written and engraved in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away" (2 Corinthians 3:7). He further states concerning that which was "glorious" which was "written and engraved in stones" that it has been done away with. "For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remains is glorious" (2 Corinthians 3:11).

But how can we know that the things written and engraved on stones was the Ten Commandments? Let us take notice of Exodus 34:1. "And the Lord said unto Moses, 'hew thee two tablets of stone like unto the first; and I will write upon these tables the words that were in the first tables which thou broke.'" Then again, in Exodus 34:28, "And he was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights; he did neither eat bread, nor drink water. And he wrote upon the tables the words of the covenant, the ten commandments." So, we must conclude that the Ten Commandments which were written on tables of stone, were done away.

If the Ten Commandments have been abolished, then are we free to steal, kill, bear false witness, commit adultery, dishonor our parents, bow before other gods, covet or take the name of the Lord in vain? Absolutely not! Why? Because these are forbidden in the New Testament, by which we are guided in this dispensation. All these principles set forth in the Ten Commandments are also taught in the New Testament; except one. This one exception is the command to, "keep the Sabbath." In the New Covenant, we are not commanded to keep the Sabbath (the seventh day of the week) but we are taught to worship God the "Lord's day" (the first day of the week (Acts 20:7). Sabbath keeping was not included in the New Testament law.

When I keep those principles which we read about in nine of the Ten Commandments, I keep them because Christ taught them in His new covenant, and not because Moses taught them to the Jews long ago. "For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ" (John 1:17).

Is the Old Testament of any value? Yes! It proves the New Testament. It shows us how God had dealt with man in the past. It helps us to understand the true meaning of faith. Hebrews chapter 11 wouldn't mean as much if we could not turn back to the Old Testament and read about holy men of old as they demonstrated what it means to be faithful to God. Paul wrote, "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope" (Romans 15:4).

Excerpt from

Wooddale Church of Christ wooddale.faithsite.com 

Church of Christ serving the Knoxville, Tennessee area 

 

Does God Hear the Sinner Pray?

 

Daily Devotional for Friday January 28, 2011 

Tom Smith 

Recently I received a e-mail asking me "Would you please explain John 9:31 and Acts 10:31 ? Does God hear the sinner's prayer or not?" 

 

To answer this question, let us first notice the two passages, which some claim contradict each other. "We know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshiper of God, and do his will, him he heareth" (John 9:31). "Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God" (Acts 10:31), In the passage in John 9:31, the blind man who had been healed by Jesus was speaking of the Lord. The Jews had accused Jesus of being a sinner, and the blind man simply stated what they already knew: "God will not hear sinners." In the other passage, Cornelius, a Gentile, was not a Christian, yet the record says his prayer was heard. But how is the term, "sinner," used in the Scriptures?

 

"Sinner" sometimes is used to mean one who is not a Christian: "If a man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this name. For the time (is come) for judgment to begin at the house of God: and if it begin first at us, what shall be the end of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous is scarcely saved, where shall the ungodly and sinner appear?" (1 Pet. 4:16-18

 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?

18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?). Note that "Christian " and "sinner" are set as opposites. The Christian is one who is in a saved state and in fellowship with God. In this sense then, the sinner is one who is not a child of God, an alien to God's Kingdom (Eph. 2:11-12

Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;

12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:).

However, the more common use of "sinner" in the Scriptures is that of one who rebels against the will of God, refusing to do the Lord's will. This is the way the term "sinner" is used in John 9:31.

 

God told the people of Israel, "Behold, Jehovah's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: but your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, so that he will not hear" (lsa. 59:1-2).

 

This was simply another way of saying that when folk rebel against the will of God and will not listen to Him, then He will not listen to them. 

 

This principle is firmly based in all of God's dealing with mankind. Note this passage: "Because I have called, and ye have refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man hath regarded; but ye have set at nought all my counsel, And would none of my reproof. ..Then will they call upon me, but I will not answer; they will seek me diligently, but they shall not find me" (Prov. 1:24-28). No matter what a man may claim, until he submits to the will of God for his life, his prayer will not avail: "He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, Even his prayer is an abomination" (Prov. 28:9). 

 

It was to this principle that the blind man referred in John 9:31. If Jesus had been a sinner (a rebel against God), then God would not have heard his prayer and granted Him the power to heal the blindness. But Jesus was a Jew, a citizen of God's kingdom, according to the law. So were those in Isa. 59:1-2, Prov. 1 and Prov. 28. This use of "sinner" does not mean an alien sinner, but one who is a citizen in God's kingdom, but who is in rebellion against God by refusing to obey Him. 

 

Now to answer the question. "The prayer of a righteous man availeth much" (James 5:16), and "If any man be a worshiper of God, and do his will, him he heareth" (John 9:31).

In other words, when one is willing to listen to God, then God will listen to him. That is the point with Cornelius. Even though he was not a Christian, Cornelius was willing to hear God. Therefore, God was willing to hear him. It is important, however, to recognize that prayer is not a substitute for obedience. 

 

Some contend that all a person must do to be saved is believe and ask God to save him. But, no matter what a person may do, the principle is still true: "To obey is better than sacrifice" (1 Sam. 15:22). Jesus had said, "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved" (Mark 16:16).

So, even though the prayer of Cornelius was heard, his prayer did not save him. He still had to "believe and be baptized" (Mark 16:16), and he was: "Then answered Peter, can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized. ..And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ" (Acts 10:46-48). 

 

When one will listen to God, God will hear his prayer. But He will not violate His own will in order to answer that prayer. Obeying God is the basis for His hearing our prayer. "And whatsoever we ask we receive of him, because we keep his commandments and do the things that are pleasing in his sight" (1 John 3:22). Saul's prayer was heard (Acts 9) before he became a Christian, but that prayer did not save him (Acts 22:16). The same was true with Cornelius, and the same is true with all today. Prayer is not a substitute for doing what God said to do to become a Christian. No matter how much one may pray, it is clear that such a person still must "believe and be baptized" in order to be saved and become a Christian. 

 

If we at the Wooddale Church of Christ can be of any spiritual assistance to you, please contact us by E-mail at Bill Bryant, Tom Smith , J. Raymond Pecoraro

 

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