Month: November 2004

In 1 Corinthians 16, the apostle Paul ended his epistle with various exhortations to the Christians at Corinth. In light of the tone and purpose of the letter, these exhortations are understandable. The church at Corinth was a struggling church, divided, and in the midst of much controversy.

A short list of their problems includes: Continue reading ““Watch, Stand Fast in the Faith”” →

The phenomenon of “tongue speaking” is widespread among the various denominations in our time. Adherents can be found in just about every sect, including Catholicism, and one writer rightly observed, “Instead of glossolalia (tongue speaking) being interpreted as a sign from heaven, it could more appropriately be interpreted as a sign of the times.” (1) A common aspect of denominational religious experience is a rejection of an external standard of truth. Phrases such as “I know in my heart I am saved”; and “All that matters is sincerity”; and “I have had an experience better felt than told”; have replaced the sentiment “What does the Bible say?” The Charismatic practice of “tongue speaking” naturally dovetails with this experiential profession of faith. Continue reading “Speaking in Tongues Today” →

The historical account of Josiah’s reign as king of Juda (640-609 BC) is a wonderful read. Josiah became king of Judah at the age of 8, at the death of Amon. In contrast to Amon’s idolatrous reign, (cf. 2 Chronicles 33:21-24), Josiah early in his life turned to serve God. 2 Chronicles 34:3 says, “For in the eighth year of his reign, while he was still young, he began to seek the God of his father David; and in the twelfth year he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem of the high places, the wooden images, the carved images, and the molded images.” Continue reading “Take a Stand Like Josiah” →

The Lord’s Supper is a very important aspect of our worship as we come together upon the first day of the week. I would like for you to consider the following six points concerning our observation of this commandment.

It Is Observed In Spirit And In Truth

Partaking of the Supper is a part of our worship, and as such falls under the direction of our Lord in John 4:24. He states there, “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” In effect, we must partake in a way that is authorized by God (i.e. follow the biblical instructions), and do so with a proper spirit. Continue reading “Observing the Lord’s Supper” →