Forgivenss: What does the Bible say about forgiveness?

Should we forgive people? Does God require us to forgive people? How many times should we forgive someone?  Are there times when we are not obligated to forgive someone? What about forgiving someone part way?

 

Learn what the Bible says about forgiveness with this new Bible study lesson on forgiveness:  http://www.abiblecommentary.com/forgivenessinmatthew18

 

Ubaldo Jimenez

           Whether you are a Colorado Rockies fan or not, you probably heard about the amazing feat pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez accomplished not long ago.  He became the first Rockies pitcher to throw a no-hitter.  That's right, he threw 128 pitches without a single opponent getting a hit.  Since 1875, there have been less than 270 no-hitters, so this is quite rare.

            Despite what an incredible success this was, in reality, Jimenez was not the person who achieved the no-hitter, but the entire team as a whole.  If it were not for many awesome plays made by the team around him, he would not have accomplished a no-hitter.  Not matter how good he may be, without the team that surrounded him, a no-hitter would have been virtually impossible.

            As we continue to strive towards our ultimate goal to be with the Lord in heaven, let's remember that we need each other and to help each other.  This is the reason the Lord gave us the church (1 Corinthians 12:14f).  Every church has leaders, and usually these are the elders (Acts 20:28; Titus 1:5).  Most of the time the elders function as the pillars of the church and handle more then their far share of the burden and responsibilities.  However, no matter how wonderful our elders may be, they still need the individual members around them for support and encouragement.  Just as Jimenez needed his team, the elders, deacons, ministers, and every individual member needs each other.  As we continue striving for the goal, let's make sure we give special attention and support to our elders, but also to each other.  Together we are a team and the body of Christ.  Let's always strive to work together and support each other, especially our elders who watch over our souls (Hebrews 13:17).

Brett Petrillo

 

Do chosa a thabhairt duit nuair a bhfuil do chroí

"Do chosa a thabhairt duit nuair a bhfuil do chroí."

"Your feet will bring you where your heart is."

 

Cathy Rigby, a member of the U.S. Women's Gymnastics Team

Cathy Rigby was a member of the U.S. Women's Gymnastics Team in the 1972 Olympics at Munich, and she had only one goal in mind – to win a gold medal. She had trained hard over a long period. On the day she was scheduled to perform, she prayed for the strength and the control to get through her routine without making mistakes. She was tense with determination not to let herself or her country down. She performed well, but when it was all over and the winners were announced, her name was not among them. Cathy was crushed. Afterward, she joined her parents in the stands all set for a good cry. As she sat down, she could barely manage to say, "I'm sorry. I did my best."

"You know that, and I know that," her mother said, "and I'm sure God knows that too."

Then, Cathy recalls, her mother said 10 words that she has never forgotten:

"Doing your best is more important than being the best."

Despite our best efforts, we ALL stumble and fall, many times.  In fact, the Scriptures teach that "ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).  Because of our sins, we "lose": we are separated from God (Isaiah 59:1-2) 
and destined for destruction (Matthew 7:13-14).

But because of His great love for us, God gave His Very Best – His Son, Jesus – to die on the cross for our sins (John 3:16).  Only the sinless Son of God could pay the price for our redemption from sin (John 1:29; 1 Peter 1:18-20; Hebrews 2:17-18).  "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace" (Ephesians 1:7).

In response to His great love demonstrated on the cross of Christ, God desires that each of us give of his/her very best to Him.  He wants each of us to respond to Him in faith (Acts 16:30-31), turning from our sins in repentance (Acts 17:30-31), confessing Jesus before men (Romans 10:9-10), and being baptized (immersed) into Christ for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38; Galatians 3:26-27).  
Then He promises that if we "do our very best" to continue to walk in the light of His Word that He will continue to cleanse us from all sin (1 John 1:7).

God has given His Very Best to us so that we might be saved.

In return, won't YOU give your very best back to Him through your trusting obedience to His will?

David A. Sargent

Sermon notes

I am not so naïve as to believe we do not have young people in our number who pass notes to each other, doodle, draw pictures, and write stories and poems on non-Bible subjects when they were old enough to pay attention.  That is a matter of parental guidance and training that deserves attention.  Sometimes, what young people write down they forget and leave behind.  This morning, as I was putting up the songbooks from our Sunday night fellowship, I found something one of our teens left on the pew.

I feel sure it was a teenager's paper, as it was found on one of the front rows where the teens sit.  Parents, I don't know who wrote it, but I am pretty sure it was one of the girls.  We do not have any young men with handwriting this good.  It was carefully written and copious in detail.  It was notes from last Sunday night's sermon.  From the looks of it, very little of the sermon was missed.  The spelling was as impeccable as the handwriting, though that is not what is important.  What is important is something we observe too often and say too little.  We have a great many young people who are very "tuned in" to worship.  You hear it in the enthusiastic way they join in the singing.  You see it in their reverent attitude and their eager participation.  You can tell they want to be there.  I can see it when I am preaching, as they give me far better attention than I merit.  That is also a matter of parental guidance and training which deserves not only our attention, but our profuse praise.  Every Bible class and worship service is a training ground.  They are becoming now, right in our midst, what they will some day fully be. 

Parents, may I encourage you as you engage yourselves in worship to take note of your young people.  They are likely either "tuned in" or "tuned out" during worship.  They are either "cutting up" or "cutting their teeth" on the Word.  Are they passing notes or taking notes?  Thank God that a great majority of our youth "get" what a thrill and privilege it is to be in the presence of the Great I Am.  They humble and challenge me! 

 

Neal Pollard

 

Arthur Somers Roche

"Worry is a thin stream of fear trickling through the mind.  If encouraged, it cuts a channel into which all other thoughts are drained."

Arthur Somers Roche, American screen writer (1883-1935)

 

Good advice for parents

PARENT TO CHILD:  "What you think of me now doesn't matter. It's what your opinion of me will be in 25 years that really counts."

 

Violence in high schools

Today's editorial is going to be comprised of several thoughts of mine that, taken singly, would not be enough for a complete editorial, but combined, we can have enough "mini lessons" that will fill our allotted space and provide you with several thoughts to consider.

First - we've been experiencing some recent acts of violence in our local high schools lately and our local school authorities and editorial commentators have been concerned about where this violence comes from. Well, I've got a little information for them, violence has been a part of man's existence in this world since the very beginning.

It's all around us and always has been throughout man's history. It's nothing new. You need look no further than the written record or just about any form of literature to see that violence is a fact of life. The Bible itself is replete with the acts of violence showing how people treat others. It's central message, the death of God's Son, our Savior, was brought about by the violent acts surrounding His crucifixion.

Shakespeare's writings are full of violence and tragedy. Even fairy tales depict acts of violence. And, I don't think we have to even discuss what's shown in our theaters and on our televisions. But, we have to accept the fact that violence is a part of this world whether we like it or not. And, I'm relatively sure that Christians do not like it.

There's a segment of our society that abhors violence to the degree that they want no mention or reporting of it. Just ignore it and pretend that it doesn't happen. That's not a realistic point of view. Don't glamorize it as do many of today's movies, but it does happen and we should be made aware of it and can thereby take precautions to avoid it or not be caught up in it.

And lastly on this thought, those who have the opinion that violence should never be reported fail to realize that they live in a country where they have the freedom to express that opinion because others were (and are) willing to fight (read - be violent) for that freedom. That includes our military forces who are trained and willing to use violence for freedom's sake, and those who patrol our streets at night who sometimes have to use violence in order to combat it.

Second thought. This little saying caused me to think about how things that are part of our world have a tendency to carry over into religion. Specifically, a common aspect seen in "retirement packages." "IN REGARDS TO THE JUDGMENT, GOD JUDGES OUR FAITH WHEN OUR BODIES DIE. HE WILL NOT CONSIDER OUR TOP 3 FAITHFUL YEARS."

Third thought. In the 7^th chapter of Matthew, in the sermon on the mount, Christ talked about the "two ways" (Verses 13-14). You know, the one way that led to "destruction" and the other way that led to "life." I happened across something said by a famous author the other day that caused me to think about those verses.

The author is Louis L'Amour, primarily known as a writer of "westerns" but actually wrote about a lot of subjects and was also a poet. This statement by him was not from one of his novels, but rather from a book he wrote about his life and the things he learned from his vast travels. He said: "Too often, the way taken is the wrong way, with too much emphasis on what we want to have, rather than what we wish to become." Amen!

Last thought. I was looking through my "files," which is a nice way of describing the folders, boxes, drawers, notebooks and numerous piles of papers wherein I "file" things that I may someday wish to use editorially-wise. To think of this as a "system" would be giving it far too much credit.

Anyway, I did not find the piece of "inspiration" which I was seeking, but I did unearth something that has lain dormant for lo these many years. So, even though I included this in an editorial a long time ago, I thought that many of you may not have seen it, or if you recall it, you might like to reconsider it. It's a beautiful prayer penned by an anonymous Confederate soldier during the Civil War.

                   "I asked God for strength that I might achieve.

                    And I was made weak that I might humbly learn to obey.

                    And I asked for help that I might do greater things.

                    And I was given infirmity that I might do 'greater things.'

                    And I asked for riches that I might be happy.

                    And I was given poverty that I might be wise.

                    I asked for all things that I might enjoy life.

                    And I was given a beautiful life that I might enjoy all things.

                    I received nothing that I asked for, but got everything that

                    I had ever hoped for. Despite myself, all my prayers were

                    answered. I am, among all men, most richly blessed."

Ron Covey

What must I do to be saved?

My dad pointed me to an article snippet that quickly caught my attention.  It said, "While 80 percent of American's say they believe in heaven, few people agree on...how we will get there."  The reason I found this interesting is because of how ironic this statement really is.  Many times people make answers so much more difficult then they really need to be.  If I wanted to go to a restaurant called "The Melting Pot," how would I find out where to go?  Naturally I would look for an address, look at a map, and get directions.  If I wanted to go to the Grand Canyon, how would I know where to go?  Again, I would look at something that would tell me where I am, and which direction I need to go to reach my destination.  What would I do if I wanted to go to China, Japan, Paris, or any other location?  I do not wish to belabor this point, but obviously I would seek some sort of direction and guidance in order to reach the destination.  I might even rely on others who know how to get there.

Today, most people would probably say something to the effect of, "If you just do more good things then bad things, if you are a good person overall, then God will probably let you into heaven."  Some may even say that we need to believe in God.  Beyond all of this, there are so many different denominations, creeds, interpretations, and opinions about heaven that it can become very confusing.  So which way is right?  While there are many different ways to get to the Grand Canyon or most other locations, it is wrong to apply the same logic to a place no person alive today has been to yet.  However, it is logical to look for directions from the Supreme Being who actually made everything, and even wrote down everything people need to know.

So, if people want to find out how to get to heaven, why not just look at the best map directions that were ever given.  This is, of course, the Bible.  God has literally "mapped" out what people need to do in order to reach this glorious place.  He does not give several ways to get there or leave it to someone else's opinion.  We find the only set of reliable direction is from Him.  There are even several "landmarks" that let us know we are moving in the right direction.  They are:

 

(1) Hear the good news about Jesus Christ (John 6:45; Romans 10:17; etc).

(2) Believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God (John 8:24; Romans 10:17; etc).

(3) Repent of sins (Acts 17:30-31; 2 Cor. 7:10; etc).  This means to turn away from a life of sin to a life committed to the Lord.

(4) Confess that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matt 16:13-16; Romans 10:9-10; etc).

(5) Be Baptized for the forgiveness of sins (Galatians 3:26-27; Mark 16:15-16; 1 Peter 3:21; etc).

(6) Remain Faithful until the end (Revelation 2:10; 1 John 1:5-7; etc).  We do this by obeying the commands He has given in the Bible.

 

            This is what God's directions say.  Taking one out or leaving one off would lead a person off course.  We must be very careful following directions from anything or anyone else which says something different than God.  In fact, do not even take my word for it; study God's word for yourself.  God has given us everything we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3).  Many people may disagree on how to get to heaven, but let's not make the answer harder than it needs to be.  God has clearly mapped out the answer for us.  All we have to do is follow the best map directions ever given.

 

Brett Petrillo

Bookmasters Group - review of Bookmasters

Have you or someone you know used "Bookmasters Group," the company with this web site address:  http://www.bookmasters.com/?ibp-camp=g-brand&gclid=CJbunOv9pKECFQzxDAod-GK0zQ

On its home page Bookmasters says:  "With nearly 40 years of experience, BookMasters can handle every step of the publishing process — from initial documentation and developmental editing to text and cover design, book printing, warehousing, fulfillment, and distribution.

BookMasters is the source that provides you with the most comprehensive menu of integrated services available in the publishing industry today, all from our facility in Ashland, Ohio."

Give you review of Bookmasters here to help othes make a good decision about how to promote their books.

Steve Irwin Crocodile Hunter

 

No Crocodiles in Heaven

 

This week's "pen" has been some time in developing, as you might conclude from the title and gist of the article.  It has been more than a year since the famous "Crocodile Hunter," Steve Irwin was killed by a stingray during a diving expedition off the coast of Australia.  Though I was no big fan of Mr. Irwin, I did have an occasion to watch his program from time to time, or to catch an interview by some well known celebrity.  With his trademark khaki shorts, chirpy manner and an obvious love of wildlife, Steve Irwin was known to television viewers around the world simply as "the crocodile hunter."  As with the death of any well known celebrity, the world mourned the loss and sought to speak well of the deceased.  Mr. Irwin has been called "a genuine conservationist," "a lover of animals," and the "champion of animal rights" in Australia, and around the world.  One news commentator made the remark that the "Crocodile Hunter" has gone to that great "Crocodile reserve in the sky."  Of course we are all aware that there is no such place as some "Crocodile reserve in the sky," or "happy hunting land" where "seldom is heard a discouraging word and the skies are not cloudy all day."

 

But the Bible does speak of a place called "heaven," "Abraham's bossom," and the "New Jerusalem."  It is a place of "no death," "no tears," and "no sorrow."  Absent will be "the fearful, and unbelieving, and abominable, and murders, and fornicators, and sorcerers, and idolators, and all liars."  That wonderful home of the soul will never be tainted by the temptations from the evil one, nor will it be invaded by death's dark shadow.   It is a prepared place for a prepared people, whose priorities were focused upon the eternal rather than the temporal.   It is a city four-square, whose walls are made of jasper, and the city itself like unto pure glass.  Twelve gates will usher the saints of every generation into that celestial city, accompanied by angels, and welcomed by the Father.  In the midst of the city we will find the tree of life, bearing twelve manner of fruits – adequate provisions for those who have hungered after righteousness.  A river will flow from the throne of God, quenching our spiritual thirst.  That river will not be muddy, nor will it be polluted by the ravages of time and the filth of sin.  Instead it will be bright as crystal, with a purity beyond our wildest imagination.   In the midst of the city we will find our Father, sitting upon the throne.  At His side will be the Lord, in all His glory and majesty – and we will be permitted to look upon the face of the Lamb who redeemed us, and the Father who loves us.   John's description of that heavenly Jerusalem tickles our imagination and stirs our hearts.   Oh, how beautiful heaven must be!    No wonder Paul encouraged us to endure the trials and tribulations that might come our way: "For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed to us-ward…Wherefore we faint not; but though our outward man is decaying, yet our inward man is renewed day by day.  For our light affliction, which is for the moment, worketh for us more and more exceedingly an eternal weight of glory" (Rom. 8:18, 2 Cor. 4:16-17).   I do not know who wrote this poem, but it expresses the same sentiment as the inspired apostle:

 

The Tapestry of Life

 

Tis said that old Time is a shuttle,

Swift weaving the web of our days;

In and out fly the fast speeding moments

Thro' the warp and the wool of earth's maze.

 

At times all the colors seem sombre,

Again there are dashes of bright;

Anon all life's threads knot and tangle,

And only defects meet our sight.

 

Full often we stand and in wonder

We gaze at the unresting loom,

Which hides the design of the fabric

Until we have reached the dark tomb.

 

Only this do we know that the groundwork,

Thro' which the bright colors are twined,

Is woven of charity's fibers,

Which serve the threads closely to bind.

 

And when the last thread has been broken,

And the loom is forever at rest,

We shall see that our life's great Designer

Knew what for His children  was best.

--author unknown

 

If all a person can envision in that final abode of the soul is some "Crocodile reserve in the sky," his concept of heaven is warped, to say the least.   Whether it be the Muslim who envisions some harem with sensual pleasures for all eternity, or the Mormons with their eternal celestial marriages, the simple truth is, there will be none of that in heaven.   And no Virginia - there are no Crocodiles in Heaven!

 

by Tom Wacaster

 

Will Rogers

 

Well, I'm going to revert to my "Will Rogers" format for editorial writing today. I can hear many of our younger readers saying, "Who?" Will Rogers was a very astute commentator who used comedy to get his point across. He was often referred to as the "Cowboy Philosopher" due to his dress, mannerisms and his rope twirling while giving his comedic lectures. If you were to listen to his comments on the events of today, they would be very appropriate to the time and occasion. Especially when he talked about the government and politics.

But, the reason I'm using Will as a catalyst for today's editorial is because he was fond of saying that, in order to get material for his act, all he had to do was read the newspaper. I echo that thought - all I have to do many times, to gain inspiration for an editorial, is read the newspapers or listen to broadcast news. And, I might add, there is a never-ending supply of material therein. So, my thoughts here today all stem from news items I've run across that made me think and I'm going to share my thoughts in this forum for you to consider.

First item: There is a phrase written or spoken in the news every now and then that I detest and it literally "chaps my hide." It just fires me up and almost makes my teeth itch. That phrase is; "The world again is in mourning." This phrase is then followed by the announcement of the death of someone and more often than not, it's some entertainment figure or personality.

Fairly recently I heard this phrase used regarding the death of a Hollywood producer and also in regards to a member of a rock band (who died of an overdose of drugs, I might add). I had heard of the producer, but I have no clue as to who the rock star was. And, names are not important to our thoughts here.

I've got news for Hollywood; that phrase is way over used. I think that is so because Hollywood seems to think that "the world" hangs on everything they do, and because of their massive egos, they believe that "the world" goes into mourning when a member of their community passes from the earth. I've got more news for Hollywood - I'm part of "the world" and I'm not in mourning over some licentious, drug-abusing rock band performer who chose a manner of life that brought about his death.

What has any Hollywood personality ever done to warrant the mourning of "the world?" How about we mourn the loss of our soldiers in combat or our police and firemen in the performance of their duties. Their duties involved making "the world" a safer place for mankind. Hollywood performers' duties involve entertaining people and making a lot of money by doing it.

Summation thought on this item: "The world" should be in mourning over the condition it has gotten itself into. It has done everything in its power to remove God from society. If they would only read what God says about man's final end, and would believe His Word, they would truly mourn over its condition.

Item number two: one of the things we hear a lot about in the news is that people are not to be "judgmental." It's not politically correct. The word "judgment" is pretty much out of favor these days. They tell us that we're "not to judge." I do not agree with this premise and here is why.

We make judgments every day. We have to. We make a judgment about the things that we do, whether they are "right or wrong." And I know, that's one of the reasons that we're not supposed to be judgmental - that by being so we're, in essence, telling someone they're wrong. We also make judgments about who we associate with, at least we should be doing so, and even to who to vote for.

There is nothing wrong with being judgmental, it's a responsibility each one of us has. What we have to watch for, is that we judge "righteously." (John 7:24) As used there, it simply means that we are to discern correctly and then judge correctly. Here's the kicker to this thought. We are to judge, but we are to judge according to the proper "standards." Our judgment is based upon our "standards."

It's what our "standards" are based on that determines whether we judge "righteously" or properly. God has always set standards for man to live by and thus judge by. Christians' "standards" are set by Christ's teachings in the Gospel. "Standards" determine our morals, our ethics and our judging ability. Let me ask you this in closing this item - has society's standards gone up or down? What do you think?

Item three: We've read and heard a lot recently about "parole" and "parolees." Most everyone is familiar with this concept, law enforcement people more than anyone. The concept of "parole" is basically, releasing someone from custody for an offense/s back into the community. Perhaps sort of like a "second chance." In California any more, it's more likely their 3^rd, 4^th or 5^th chance. But, we understand the concept of this system - you get another chance.

Here's a another concept for you to absorb - God does not have a "parole system" in the way that man thinks of it. See, there are religions out there that promote that very concept. Like "purgatory," for example. As in, one can live however they want to, die in their sins and then be "prayed out of purgatory." IE: released on parole to be given a second chance. Of course, some amount of money usually changes hands for this "prayer based parole." The "Rapture" and the "1000 year reign" are also examples of man trying to place a "parole system" in the Word of God.

Here's the thought bringing this item to its close: If one dies in his sins, is unrepentant during his life, there IS NO PAROLE from torment. I am not the one who says this. I would suggest that you read the words of Jesus Christ found in Luke 16:19-31 where He explains that there is "no coming back" after sentencing. Thus, no "parole."

Ron Covey

 

Riding on a street car

GETTING A FIRM GRIP

Have you ever felt like you are missing something in your life? You try the best you can, yet you can't seem to find the power to make the right decisions or to stand up and be counted as a Christian. We know that God has promised to be with us always, yet somehow we just can't make the connection. We all struggle with those things at times and we may not understand why it is so hard for us to touch God, especially when we want so badly to tap into God's power.

A man tells of riding on a street car some time ago. It was one of those cars with an underground trolley cable. He observed that the motorman could easily make the car go slowly or make it go fast. When they would come to a cross street he noticed that by touch of the handle the car would almost stop, and yet would not quite stop, but just go creeping along like a snail. Then all at once the motorman would touch the handle again and the car would speed up again.

He got curious to know how the thing was done, so he ventured to the platform and ask the motorman how it worked. "Why, when I squeeze this handle I open the mouth that grips the trolley cable (where the power comes from). When I want to go slow, I open the mouth and just barely grip the cable. WE CALL THAT SKINNING THE WIRE." (Author unknown)

The problem with many people today, is that they are just skinning the wire. They have never tapped into or gotten a firm grip on the power of God. Much of the Apostle Paul's writings to the early church contained encouragement to get a strong grip on God. We often are content to hold loosely onto God, barely keeping in touch, skinning the wire so to speak. The problem with that is, when the need for God's power in our lives surprises us, the handle is frozen in the loose position and we can't seem to free it to connect completely to the power.

Paul wrote the young man Timothy, both warning and encouraging him in 1 Timothy 6:12. He tells him: "Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses."

Holding on to God (and eternal life) is a constant fight, a constant struggle to maintain a strong grip. When we slack off, relax our grip (skin the wire) we are doing exactly what Satan wants us to do. How far do we move from the source of power before we suddenly find it is no longer within our reach?

Perhaps it is time for you to take a firm grip on eternal life while you still can. If you are struggling with your Christian walk, maybe it is time to 'Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called," and stop just letting life slip through your fingers.

Russ Lawson

 

EARTH DAY

If you did not know, today is "Earth Day."  I understand that Earth Day is a politically-charged event, and there are strong feelings on both sides.  There is no doubt that zealous environmentalists were involved in its initial organization and development.  Ironically, as reported in today's New York Times, organizers at the first annual event in 1970 held tech-ins "to challenge corporate and government leaders" but today corporations have their finger prints all over the activities of Earth Day (see www.nytimes.com/2010/04/22/science/earth/22earth.html).  Interestingly, too, that New York Mayor John Lindsay likened an earth day gathering to a "secular revival meeting" (ibid.), since environmentalism has become a religion to many and even has become a cause championed by a growing number in Christendom.

May I remind you of a few important facts as the world observes "Earth Day"?

First, "The earth is the Lord's, and all it contains" (Ps. 24:1; 1 Cor. 10:26).  This idea was first spoken in scripture by Moses to Pharaoh as part of the explanation for the ten plagues (Ex. 9:29).  David is focused on the Messiah in Psalm 24 as the third part of three looks at Him as Sufferer (Ps. 22), Shepherd (Ps. 23), and Sovereign (Ps. 24).  This Lord of creation holds ownership rights to it all.  Paul quotes this Psalm to help a troubled church fighting over inconsequentials and reminds them that meat is a part of all things on earth owned by the Lord.  God writes the rules about its usage and intent, which includes the use of trees for houses and buildings (Dt. 20:19-20; 1 Kings 4:33), the use of animals for meat (Gen. 9:2-3; Acts 10:13ff), and the use of mined ores, precious stones, and similar materials (Gen. 24:53; 2 Chr. 32:27).  As the brilliant Designer, God has made the earth a vast repository of natural resources for man's use while here.

Second, "The earth is ours" (Gen. 1:26). Man was created to rule "over all the earth."  We are stewards of its resources, but we should remember that it is here for our use.  Christians will not overly obsess over the earth, nor will we make environmentalism our chief cause.  May we never forget that our top priority is to "seek and save the lost" (cf. Lk. 19:10) and not to "save the planet."

Finally, "The earth is temporary" (cf. 2 Pet. 3:10ff).  These passages above remind us that the God who made it all has the right and has made the promise that some day He will bring it all to an end (cf. 2 Pet. 3:10ff).  It is His to do with as He pleases.  Let us not get so fixated on it that we lose sight of the endless home of the soul where we all will undoubtedly go (cf. Ecc. 12:5).

What will you do on "Earth Day"?  A lot of that is simply up to you.  But, today and every day, make sure you are preparing yourself for that great and final day for which there is no day that compares (2 Pet. 3:10).

Neal Pollard

The "social gospel"

What is the "social gospel"?  Interestingly, Wikipedia has a concise, accurate definition on its site.  They define it as a "Protestant Christian intellectual movement that was prominent in the late 19th century and early 20th century.  The movement applied Christian ethics to social problems, especially justice, inequality, liquor, crime, racial tensions, slums, bad hygiene, child labor, weak labor unions, poor schools, and the danger of war" (Social_Gospel).  USA Today ran an article in their "The Forum" section on March 2, 2010, indicating that mainline Protestant denominations are in serious decline and searching for the reasons why.  Half of Protestant churches have fewer than 100 members "and in nearly six out of 10 congregations, it's the Church of the Blue Hair. Or No Hair. A quarter or more of their congregants are 65 or older.  That's three times the number for their more conservative Evangelical cousins" (10A).  This newspaper article pointed to the same "social gospel" accomplishments as did Wikipedia, trumpeting and praising their deeds of the past.  But, now, this once majority is now a minority (ibid.).  Their answer is to delve further into social issues, broadening their "reach" by championing gay and lesbian clergy, environmental issues, and postmodernism.  But is it broadening or a further watering down of their message?

May I suggest that the ultimate result of the social gospel is death.  As it is usually associated with changing the changeless message, it is certainly spiritual death.  But a toothless, conviction-less message also leads to its earthly demise.  The social gospel concerns itself with feeding and clothing the body,  but it avoids matters of the soul.  It is un-evangelistic such that it is extremely averse to "proselytizing" anyone who is a "person of faith" and shy about reaching out to unbelievers.

The first century church was interested in its community and "doing good unto all men" (cf. Gal. 6:10).  But, Jesus left them their primary mission in what we often call "The Great Commission" (Matt. 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:46-47).  The first and greatest order of business was to teach the gospel to the lost, and they did so even at great personal risk and ostracism.  Their communities often misunderstood them and rejected them, though the early Christians did such deeply impacting work that they were said to "turn the whole world upside down" (Acts 17:6).  The gospel was preached to every creature under heaven (Col. 1:23).  Peter and John told a beggar they could not address his physical needs, but what they gave him was eternally better (Acts 3:6).

We need to reach out further and deeper into our communities, but to what end?  Let us meet benevolent needs as we can, but let us remember our mission is to seek and save the lost.  That was Jesus' (Lk. 19:10).  Otherwise, we will gradually rust and crumble from decay until we are dead and gone.  If we doubt it, let us consider Protestant denominations as "Exhibit A."

Neal Pollard

 

http://www.kaboodle.com/abible

http://www.kaboodle.com is a MUST VISIT web site.  If you have not checked it out, look at it today.  You can create a free profile like http://www.kaboodle.com/abible in just minutes!

I'll Watch My Language

 

           My brother and I went golfing in-between morning and evening services this last Sunday.  As it turned out, we were paired up with two other guys in order to make a party of four.  Naturally we were not thrilled with this but they seemed like decent guys.  However, not too long after we began playing, a lot of bad words and inappropriate topics were discussed between the two guys.  A little later, we were asked what our jobs were and I explained that I was a youth minister.  The man just simply said, "Oh sorry...I will watch my language."

            I found this whole situation interesting.  Up until that point, the man had absolutely no hesitation as to what he was saying.  Why did this man only now feel the need to watch the words he said and the topics he was discussing since a minister was around?  As I thought more about this, I came to several conclusions about many people in our society.

1.  He knew his language was morally wrong.  Why would he feel the need to apologize for his language and try to refrain if he did not think it was wrong in the first place?  This man knew there are certain things God disapproves of.  God has placed in us morals and a conscience in order to help us make the right decisions (1 Samuel 24:5f; Romans 2:14-16; etc).  Overall, people know what is ethically right and wrong, but too often people suppress this "moral code" to fulfill their own desires.           

2.  He wanted to put on a "good front."  Since a minister was around, he wanted to appear like he was better than he actually was.  Minister or not, you have probably had something similar to this happen to you as well.  People simply want to appear to be better then they actually are when religion is involved (Matthew 6:1-7; 15:8-9; etc).  In fact, Christ even called these type of people hypocrites.

3. He was reminded (at least on some level) that God expects different behavior.  All I did was tell him my occupation, but that alone was enough to remind this man that God is alive and He expects better.  While it may seem like God is being purged out of our society, most people still seem to have some type of fear and respect for God.  Let's remember we are to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13-14), and remind people about God's expectations.

No matter what situation we find ourselves in, let's always strive to remind people about God and what He expects of us.  People tend to know what is right and wrong.  We can be that light to help show them where they need to be walking.  Let this also serve as a reminder to Christians, that we need to be genuine and follow God all the time, not just when other Christians are around.  Colossians 3:9 provides a fitting conclusion, "Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father."

 

Brett Petrillo

Robert Lynd, Irish writer

"I sometimes suspect that half of our difficulties are imaginary and that if we kept quiet about them they would disappear."

Robert Lynd, Irish writer (1879-1949)

 

The Ten Cannots

Today's editorial is based upon a word that most of us don't like to hear. Especially when it's directed towards ourselves. It's the word "cannot," as in you "cannot do _____?_____." Human nature being what it is, whatever it is that we're told we "cannot do" just seems to make us want to do it even more, doesn't it?

I'm going to couple that thought with the current election season we're in the midst of and cite to you something written by a minister in 1916 that I feel fits very well with all the political campaign speeches we're bombarded with daily. He entitled his article: "The Ten Cannots." I think you'll find it applicable.

"You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift."

"You cannot help small men by tearing down big men."

"You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong."

"You cannot lift the wage earner by pulling down the wage payer."

"You cannot help the poor man by destroying the rich."

"You cannot keep out of trouble by spending more than your income."

"You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred."

"You cannot establish security on borrowed money."

"You cannot build character and courage by taking away men's initiative and independence."

"You cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they could and should do for themselves."

In looking at those "cannots" I see just about every one of them being violated by the words and promises of those running for polital office.  And, they're not restricted to just the Federal venue, but apply to the state government and on down to the local city leadership.

Basically the candidates seem to be operating on the premise that the electorate, the citizens of whichever venue fits, all have "itching ears." (2 Tim. 4:3) As in, they are going to say and promise anything that sounds good, especially if it's promising to "soak the rich" and give it (welfare, etc.) to the poor. And, of course, we all see ourselves as "the poor."

And now, I'd like to add my version of Ten Biblical Cannots for you to consider.

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid." (Mt. 5:14)

"Ye cannot serve God and mammon." (Mt. 6:24)

"A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, nor a corrupt tree good fruit." (Mt. 7:18)

Both a kingdom or a house "divided against itself cannot stand." (Mark 3:24-25)

"And whosoever doth not bear his cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple." (Luke 14:27)

"Verily, verily I say unto thee, except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." (John 3:3, speaking of the "water and the spirit" in vs. 5)

"As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me." (John 15:4)

"So they that are in the flesh cannot please God." (Rom. 8:8)

"Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, neither corruption inherit incorruption." (1 Cor. 15:50)

"In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began. (Titus 1:3)

In closing our thoughts for today I'm going to add one more biblical "cannot" to our list and it's based upon our "7^th cannot" wherein Jesus said that if we did not abide in Him we'd be an unproductive branch. If we look a little further we see in verse 6 that if we don't "abide" in Christ we, as an unproductive ("withered") branch, will be cast out and be burned.

Let's lay that thought alongside something said by the Apostle Paul while being taken to Rome for trial. The ship he was on was caught in a violent storm and about to go down will all hands. Paul told them that God had told him that he and all who were with him would be saved from the storm and Paul said "I believe God." The crew then decided to abandon ship in a lifeboat and Paul uttered the words that have a great parabolic meaning to us and the lesson today. He told them: "Except ye abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved." (Acts 27:31)

Ron Covey

What if?

-People began with the assumption that the mind of God rather than the minds of men was responsible for Scripture?
-People assumed that a God powerful enough to create everything in such intricate and amazing detail could preserve that Scripture throughout the wear and tear of the ages and the varied attacks of men?
-People assumed that Scripture constructed in just such a way was the sole authority for all religious matters?
-People tried trusting the simple, repeated claims Scripture makes for its own inspiration and authority?
-People treated Scripture as the breathed out message from God and not like it was a comic book, on a par with the works of Homer, Aristotle, or Shakespeare, or a literary work to be sliced and diced with condescending contempt?
-People read and studied that Scripture reverently and submissively rather than looking for ways to attack, mock, and undermine it?
-People approached Scripture as their guide for living and sought to have it reshape their thinking, renew their mind, and remake their character?
-People had such confidence is Scripture that they felt compelled to gently, persistently, and zealously share it with people in the world around them?
-People spent less time debating the authenticity of Scripture and more time demonstrating the altering ability of Scripture?
-People simply lived the Scripture rather than lumping it?

What would happen?  Would we generate a society full of hypocrites and charlatans? Would there be anarchy, chaos, and evil?  Would there be an epidemic of despair and unhappiness?  Would we be a people racked with guilt and emptiness?  If our premise was that the Bible is what it claims to be and we thus gave it the place such a premise deserves and demands, what impact would we have on this world and those whose lives we touch and influence?  What if?

Neal Pollard

First Corinthians commentary:  Get the new First Corinthians commentary from www.abiblecommentary.com.  Preview the First Corinthians commentary through Google books at http://bit.ly/dfw86d.  Other Bible commentary material from www.abiblecommentary.com includes a FREE on-line Romans commentary:  http://bit.ly/3MRU5I  

 

JESUS AND THE ANGELS

 

    Jesus is vastly superior to the angels. He has a "more excellent name" than the Angels (Heb. 1:4). The Hebrew writer said, "God never designated an Angel as 'My Son'" (1:5). In Heb. 1:6 we read, "Let all the Angels worship Him." In other words, Angels are God's messengers, but Jesus is God's Son.

    However, it is interesting to note that in the Gospel accounts, the Angels were very much involved with Jesus throughout His earthly ministry.

    When God's plan began to unfold for the coming of His only begotten Son, the work of preparation was done by Angels. In Luke 1:26-33, a single Angel, Gabriel, appeared to Mary with the message that she, a virgin, would bear a child, and He would be the Son of God. The Angel told her about the birth, the name, and the mission of her yet unborn Son.

    Later, a single unnamed Angel appeared to Joseph, to whom Mary was betrothed, to assure him that Mary's pregnancy was nothing to be ashamed of, and "that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit" (Matt. 1:20). This time, the Angel offered evidence with the ancient prophecy given by Isaiah (7:14).

    On that great night when Jesus was born, the event was announced to a few shepherds who were watching their flocks in a field by an Angel. That one Angel was joined with a heavenly host of Angels giving glory to God and proclaiming the coming of peace and goodwill to men.

    After Jesus successfully defeated Satan in the wilderness temptations, the Scriptures tell us, "Angels came and ministered to Him (Matt. 4:11). Here again we see Angels prevalent in the life of Jesus, reminiscent of Psalm 34:7.

    In the Garden of Gethsemane, with the stress of the Cross directly in front of Him, Jesus prayed so fervently that, "He sweated, as it were, great drops of blood," and an Angel came and strengthened Him (Luke 22:43-44).

    After Jesus was crucified and buried, early on the first day of the week, an Angel came and rolled the stone away from the grave and sat on it (Matt. 28:2). The countenance of the Angel was such that it threw the guards into a comatose state (vs.. 3 & 4). The Angel spoke to the women who had come to the tomb and told them the good news of the resurrection.

    Fifty days later, Jesus was upon the Mount of Olives and ascended into Heaven. As He ascended, the Angels were once again on the scene, and told the disciples that this same Jesus will one day return (Acts 1:10-11).

    Angels announced His birth -- They announced His resurrection -- They announced His return.

    In the Bible, Angels are mentioned 289 times. In the NT, Angels are mentioned 180 times. In the Gospels, they are mentioned 52 times; and from Acts 1:1 to Rev. 22:21, they are mentioned 128 times. Angels are very real. However, the worship of them is sinful (Col. 2:18; Rev. 22:9).

    I keep thinking that there must be a reason that God has told us so much about the work of angels. They are present when the Gospel is preached (Luke 15:10); they are present at the death of the righteous (Luke 16:22); and they are sent forth to minister to those who will inherit salvation (Heb. 1:14). Hebrews 13:2, even informs us that some have "unknowingly" entertained Angels.

    However, we must also be aware that Satan can transform himself into an "angel of light" (2Cor. 11:14) for the purpose of deceiving people. Therefore, there must be "good" Angels, and "bad" angels. The only way to know the difference is by a knowledge of God's Word (cf. Deut. 13:1-5).        

 

                                                                                                       Toby Miller

                                                    

The danger of false teachers

The Bible says false teachers underestimate God and the seriousness of spiritual things (2 Pet. 2:12). False teachers often proclaim a message of grace but they often pervert God's grace (Gal. 1:6-7) and have persuasive speech (2 Pet. 2:18a). They often profess liberty (2 Pet. 2:19a), but they are bondservants of corruption. In fact, many false teachers are guilty of greed (2 Pet. 2:3). False teachers will destroy individual Christians as well as congregations (1 Tim. 6:4b) so they cannot be tolerated (1 Jn. 4:1). False teachers may try to appear as righteous people (Mt. 7:15-16) and may lead many astray (Mt. 24:11), sometimes through false promises (2 Pet. 2:17), but God says we must not have fellowship with them and their doctrines (2 Jn. 9-11).