Sound Teaching  This is the teaching site of the West Side church of Christ in Fort Worth, TX. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials were written and prepared by Stan Cox |
By Stan Cox, on June 28th, 2011
The appropriate response of Philemon to Paul’s petition on behalf of the slave Onesimus would be to receive him back, and treat him as a brother in Christ. Paul encouraged him to receive him, “that is, my own heart” (12); and “as you would me” (17).
Further, Paul’s purpose was to have Philemon act out of good will rather than necessity. This is a common theme in scripture. God does not want his children to act appropriately merely out of necessity. He wants his children to do so out of a sense of right, and willingly.
Finally, Paul appealed to the possibility of divine providence in the actions of Onesimus. Paul didn’t deny that the slave was wrong in running away, but believed that God has used that as an opportunity for the man to be taught the truth: “perhaps he departed for a while for this purpose, that you might receive him forever” (15).
The relationship of Onesimus to Philemon had now changed. They were brothers in Christ. Such a relationship demands fraternal devotion and a recognition of common heritage and equality (cf. Galatians 3:28).
By Stan Cox, on October 25th, 2010
This sermon by Josh Cox examines the text of 2 Peter 1:5-11 to determine the characteristics that make for Spiritual Maturity. (Virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love).
Sermon Powerpoint: Click Here .
Sermon Audio: Click Here .
By Stan Cox, on March 15th, 2010
My family had a wonderful day yesterday (and the Davis family did as well, I trust). I am so proud for Josh and Rachel, and I sincerely believe that they will have a long and happy life together.
I am thankful for my children, and for my family, and for my brethren in Christ. Things were very hectic at the wedding, and the reception following, and I didn’t get an opportunity to thank those who were able to come.
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!
By Stan Cox, on March 14th, 2009
 With this bulletin I am beginning a new front page feature, “From the Preacher’s Pen.” It will not be weekly, from time to time we will follow the previous template. However, this allows me to teach, and exhort on a more intimate and casual level.
Consider these missives to be a direct conversation between me and you, as brethren here at West Side. Kind of like a short note, penned as a reminder, or an encouragement, or as a simple celebration of our faith together. Hence, the handwriting font. This is my own printing, transformed into a computer font. I certainly do not have the prettiest writing, but I trust you can read this without too much strain.
Brethren, we are blessed to be members together here at West Side. It is good to be part of such a loving family. I pray this new feature will help us to celebrate that fact.
Stan
(Note: The handwriting font used can’t be duplicated on the web site).
By Stan Cox, on June 28th, 2007
AOTS Number 63
God is ultimately the source of all strength. However, we as His children can strengthen others through sympathetic practices.
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By Stan Cox, on June 15th, 2007
It was F.B. Meyer, I believe, who once said that when we  see a brother or sister in sin, there are two things we do not know: First, we do not know how hard he or she tried not to sin. And second, we do not know the power of the forces that assailed him or her. We also do not know what we would have done in the same circumstances.
Stephen Brown, Christianity Today, April 5, 1993, p. 17.
The point is not to ignore or tolerate the sin of a brother. Paul admonished the Corinthians for their acceptance of immorality into the church, (cf. 1 Corinthians 5), and instructed them to “deliver such a one to Satan.”
However, that same individual, upon his repentance, received Paul’s pity. “Therefore I urge you to reaffirm your love to him” (2 Corinthians 2:8).
Our approach to the sinner should be one of humility and compassion, even as we seek to discipline him in his sin. “Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted” (Galatians 6:1).
By Stan Cox, on May 31st, 2007
AOTS Number 44
Exaltation in the kingdom of God is found in service. It is our responsibility as God’s children to do good, that God might be glorified.
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By Stan Cox, on May 15th, 2007
AOTS Number 32
The apostle Paul in his letter to the Thessalonians gives an admonition to deal patiently with those who are weak. It is one we must all heed carefully.
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By Stan Cox, on November 12th, 2006
Podcast Number 26
One way to express love for our brethren, as revealed by James in James 5:19-20, is to turn back one who has fallen in sin to a life of righteousness.
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By Stan Cox, on September 20th, 2006
A love and affection for one’s brothers and sisters in Christ leads a Christian to seek their well begin and eternal welfare.
Sermon Audio: Click Here .
By Stan Cox, on September 10th, 2006
The Apostle Paul exhorted the Ephesian elders while in Miletus in Acts 20. His address is full of application with regard to personal responsibility and love for brethren.
Sermon Audio: Click Here .
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