Tri-Annual Singing!
October 17, 2026
7:00pm - 8:30pm
Author: Stan Cox
Minister, West Side church of Christ since August of 1989 ........ Editor of Watchman Magazine (1999-2018 Archives available online @ http://watchmanmag.com) ........ Writer, The Patternists: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatternists
The Patternists: You Who Desire to be Under the Law
Some who claim to be disciples of Jesus will seek to justify their doctrinal positions by an appeal to the Old Testament. For example, why do people advocate tithing, or Sabbath keeping, or the use of instruments to accompany the hymns they sing in congregational worship? The only appeal that can be made is to the Old Law. “David did it!”
In Galatians 4:21, Paul wrote, “Tell me, you who desire to be under the law, do you not hear the law?” His point was that the law spoke of its own end, and that the children of promise would be free through faith in Christ Jesus. As Paul concluded, “So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman but of the free” (Galatians 4:31). By extension, one can’t argue from the Law to justify his practice as a Christian.
Consider these truths as examples:
- Christians don’t tithe, they give as prospered (cf. 1 Corinthians 16:1-2)
- Christians don’t keep the Sabbath, they worship on the first day of the week (Sunday) (cf. Acts 20:7)
- Christians don’t worship with instruments, they sing songs (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16)
The warning is severe: “You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have follen from grace” (Galatians 5:4).
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FB: The Worst Decision Ever!
In Mark 10, Jesus spoke with a young man who had many possessions. The man was obedient to the law, but his material goods held too much sway in his heart. Jesus promised the young man treasure in heaven in exchange for his giving up all he owned. It seems hard to believe, but the man chose to keep what he had rather than take what Jesus offered. Mark reveals that he “went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions” (22).
There are a few things peculiar things here. First, the man was dedicated to serving the Lord, but he wasn’t willing to serve Him with all his heart, soul and mind. Second, his specific question was, “what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” When he was told what it would take, his interest waned, despite the value of the prize.
The question is, “Why?”
Perhaps he didn’t understand that the soul was of more value than his possessions (cf. Matthew 16:26). Perhaps he didn’t have the spiritual maturity to keep his eye on the prize (cf. 2 Peter 1:9). Regardless, his choice was unwise and shortsighted.
Actually, his choice is the same choice that the majority make today. While all theoretically like the idea of inheriting eternal life, when it comes down to a choice between now and eternity, now too often wins out!
May we all heed the words of Peter, “Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:10-11).
Click below to…
Invitation: Satan Transforms Himself
Invitation delivered by: Stan Cox
In 2 Corinthians 11:12-14 Paul warns of false teachers who seem to be ministers of righteousness. This teaches us to test all teaching by the Word of God, and also to test ourselves to ensure we are teaching only truth.
Sermon: Building a Christ-Like Character
Using the text of Colossiansa 3:1-17, the lesson discusses how to build a character that emulates that of the Lord. Such a character stands fast in the face of adversity, trial and temptation.
Sermon: The Law of Moses
The Lesson discusses weaknesses inherent in the Law of Moses. (Not mistakes made by God, but limitations of the law, by design). Also, the Purpose the Law of Moses serves in the redemption of man.
An Anchor of the Soul
David, as the anointed King of Israel, had many enemies. Among them was Saul, who remained enthroned as King. Saul was jealous of David, and sought his life. However, scripture reveals that God providentially protected David. In 2 Samuel 22, David acknowledged that help:
“The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; The God of my strength, in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge; my Savior, You save me from violence” (2-3).
Invitation: Escaping the Bondage of Sin
Invitation delivered by: Stan Cox
Through God’s redemptive work, we are able to escape the bondage of sin, and inherit eternal life.
Sermon: The Church and Politics
There are civil laws governing how involved churches may become in the political arena. More importantly, there are guidelines that the church and individual Christians are given by God. These must be respected and obeyed!
God Hears, and Answers!
People generally recognize the positive impact of prayer. What is not always understood is why prayer is such a positive thing. Our national leaders during tragic times call for and express thanks for prayers offered. Many of those same leaders do not believe in God, or have no faith that God intercedes in men’s affairs. For many, prayer is simply a way of saying, “I’m thinking about you.” It is an expression of sympathy, and is appreciated for that reason alone. Caregivers may go so far as to suggest that prayers offered can have a placebo effect; a bit like chicken soup, it can’t hurt.
Our Caged Canary
This past week I posted a short video about the use of profanity that came as close to going “viral” as probably anything I will ever submit to Facebook. Since Tuesday the video has been viewed about 2,200 times, shared by over 50 people, and liked and commented upon in much greater numbers than typical. It seems the article touched a nerve. I thought I would reprise the general message in this article, and offer a few more thoughts.
First, note that profanity is defined by Webster as “an offensive word” or “offensive language.” Cussing has become much more common in our society. This is a symptom of the coarsening of our culture, and does not excuse the use of such words. Any individual who considers himself polite and respectful should refrain from using profanity. When speaking in “mixed company” or in the presence of those you do not know well, it is very possible that profane words will offend.
Invitation: A Doorkeeper in the House of My God
Invitation delivered by: Stan Cox
In Psalm 84:10-11, the Psalmist describes beautifully the advantages to having a relationship with the Almighty.
Sermon: Teaching Our Children
This sermon deals with the concept of accountability to God, and explains how important it is to teach our children. So, when God holds them accountable for their actions, they will live righteously before Him.
