Stan Cox

From the Preacher’s Pen: Respect for “Our” Soldiers

Tuesday was Veterans Day, and many expressed their appreciation for the service and sacrifices of the many members of our armed forces. I say many, because unfortunately not all show the proper respect due these brave men and women. Our soldiers put themselves in harm’s way, dutiful in their response to their superiors, defending our nation from those who have made themselves our enemies. For this they are reviled by some. This is shameful. Recognizing that not all wars are popular, there remains the necessity that liberty be defended. Our debt to them is large, and they deserve our admiration.

The same lack of respect is sometimes seen among God’s people, expressed toward those who contend with error. Though our warfare is spiritual rather than carnal (2 Corinthians 10:3-5), there is a parallel need for men to stand in the breech, “contend for the faith” (Jude 3), “convict those who contradict” (Titus 1:9), and “endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ” (2 Timothy 2:3).

Just like those who have no stomach for carnal conflict, some among God’s people are unwilling to uphold those who “wage the good warfare” (1 Timothy 1:18). Fortunately, the soldier of Christ is seldom motivated by the praise of men. He soldiers on, recognizing that while men may criticize him for his militant defense of truth, his purpose as a “bondservant of Christ” is to please his Lord (Galatians 1:10).

Sermon: Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth

The sermon is in two parts. Part 1 reviews the concept of patternism in scripture. Part 2 shows the need for common sense in interpreting scripture.

Audio 1

Audio 2

Powerpoint Slides

From the Preacher’s Pen: Offering the Invitation

It is our practice at the end of every sermon to offer an invitation to those in attendance to come forward, and express any spiritual need they may have. It may be that they desire to be baptized in water “for the remission of sins” (cf. Acts 2:38). It may be that they wish to acknowledge some public sin, and show their penitent spirit to the brethren (cf. 2 Corinthians 7:11). It may be that they need the prayers of the saints for comfort and strength (cf. James 5:16). Frankly, I couldn’t bring myself to step down after giving an exhortation from God’s word without offering an opportunity for those who heard it to respond to the message.

I don’t understand why some others have ceased the practice. Surely when we preach our desire is to elicit a response from our listeners? Even if a particular message is designed more for edification than exhortation, it may be that one of which we are not aware has a need to unburden his soul.

A favorite scripture is God’s tender invitation to close the New Testament. Coupled with the promise of the Lord’s second coming, and the further promise of a reward to the faithful (cf. vs. 12), the apostle John pens these stirring words, “And the Spirit and the bride say ‘Come!’ And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’ And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely” (Revelation 22:17). The words express the intent of every lesson I preach. May the Lord come quickly, and may we all be prepared for that day!