You may ask, what is the hardest part of gaining knowledge? The answer, “Opening the book!” Open it up, and begin reading. Pay attention, ask questions, be curious. It will take time, but once your Bible is open, you will never want to close it again. “When you read, you may understand…” (cf. Eph. 3:4).
Our understanding of Christ, and our relationship with Him depends upon His written word. It is the “word of life” we are to be “holding fast” (cf Philippians 2:16). It is that which perfects a man (2 Timothy 3:16-17). It must be known and obeyed.
It’s great to be an American. But, it can’t compare to the freedom we have in Christ!
We are fortunate in our day to receive the protection of the state as we practice our faith. However, too often Christians in our time lack the virtue to stand for God’s word, without compromise, no matter the cost. This is what God requires, and each of us must count that cost as we live for Christ.
Some idiots agree with us. We can’t help that, but we must be sure that we are not one of them! Truth sets man free (cf. John 8:32). It uplifts and ultimately saves mankind. It is also commonly wrested by men “to their own destruction” (2 Peter 3:16). The moral is… Don’t be a complete idiot!
So the question isn’t whether you want to be free to do your own will. The question is who do you want to be a slave of — a slave of “sin, leading to death”; or a slave of “obedience, leading to righteousness.” The freedom to flout God’s will, thus “self-dominion” is an illusion — one that will be shattered at the judgment day.
It is our lot in life to suffer. It happens to us all. The question is, will we have sufficient patience under such duress to prove us worthy of eternity?
Edification is “soul maintenance.” Paul encouraged the Thessalonians, “Therefore comfort each other, and edify one another, just as you also are doing” (1 Thess. 5;11). Our upcoming meeting is a good opportunity for such edification.
The practice of hospitality is emphasized as an important part of the Christian walk. Gaius was commended by the apostle John for his expressions of hospitality for “the brethren and for strangers” (3 John 4).
The apostle Paul wrote, “And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it” (1 Corinthians 12:26).
We certainly had cause to rejoice yesterday. And, we are so grateful that our brethren were there to rejoice with us!
Are you living a properly holy life?
It doesn’t make sense to claim to be a Christian unless you are willing to live the life you claim!
One interesting area of Bible Evidences is Archaeology. Archaeology helps to provide a background for the characters and events described in the Bible. It serves to corroborate the Bible as a dependable and inspired text.
It has been said that familiarity breeds contempt. Our singings have been going on now for some time. Were you there last night? Did you forget, or have something “better” to do? Please consider whether your time could be spent in doing anything better than offering praise to God!
What we have preserved for us today is the true, complete and inspired word of God!
