Author: Stan Cox

Webster’s Dictionary defines progressive as, (a) of, relating to, or characterized by progress; (b) making use of or interested in new ideas, findings, or opportunities. In relation to politics and societal trends, a progressive is interested in change. He wants to try new ideas, take advantage of new technologies, and is always trying to make the world a better place by replacing old ideas and ways with new ones.

One antonym of progressive, as supplied by Webster, is the word conservative. Again, speaking politically and societally, the conservative is wary of change. He embraces the way things have been done in the past, declaring them tried and true. He does not believe that change is for the better, and rejects new ideas and technologies as merely novel, fearing unknown consequences should they be adopted.

Continue reading “Progressive VS Conservative” →

In Exodus 14:13, Moses told the people of God to, “Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord.” We must be discerning to know when to press forward, and when to stand still. The phrase is used several times in scripture.

No audio was recorded of this lesson.

Powerpoint Slides

The conversion of Lydia and her household (Acts 16) is contrasted with a modern, evangelical example of Baptism.

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Powerpoint Slides

The other day I came across a motivational message for exercise and weight loss. The message was one of “tough love”, stating, “If you’re tired of starting over… stop giving up!”

As someone who has struggled with my weight most of my adult life, (and is trying yet again to get down to a healthy number), the message resonated. The sentiment is rather harsh, but anyone who has tried and failed to lose weight, stop smoking, or break any bad habit knows that ultimately, the success that some enjoy is directly attributable to their will. While challenging, the message gives hope as well. If this time you can stick to it, you can overcome previous disappointments and achieve your goal. While education, strategies and support all may be integral — in the end it takes perseverance to accomplish your goals.

The lesson is an important one as it applies to our spiritual standing with God. The Christian walk is a lifetime endeavor, and some do not exercise the will to live it consistently and zealously. They may become apathetic, or may be overcome by temptation. Some may become weary of “starting over” even to the point of chucking it all and returning to the world. We may understand and empathize about the difficulties of living our lives for God, but ultimately there is no excuse for failing. In the end, it is a simple matter of will.

Paul wrote, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:9-10). In other words, “stop giving up!”

Invitation delivered by: Stan Cox

The talk contrasts the wisdom of God with the words of men. (cf. 1 Corinthians 2:1-5).

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The Psalmist asked in Psalm 11:3, “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” The lesson seeks to answer the question, by suggesting that the righteous can:

• Continue to keep faith in God
• Continue to pray
• Be careful not to be consumed by anger
• Overcome evil with good
• Remember that they are living for heaven
• Obey God rather than men

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Powerpoint Slides

The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those who are planted in the house of the Lord Shall flourish in the courts of our God” (Psalm 92:12-13).

I recently read an article by Keith Barclay, in Think on These Things (Volume 44, Number 2). He suggested that faithfulness to God demands much more than is contemplated in the phrase “going to church.” That phrase could simply indicate someone who shows up to a weekly assembly. The verses above indicate a person who truly understands “the significance of God’s steadfast love, faithfulness and work.”

I can’t improve on his thoughts, so carefully consider his application of Psalm 92.

“As a result they [the righteous] firmly plant themselves (the tree metaphors of the text) in God’s house. It is where they reside, not someplace they visit. They relish their place there because there is no other place they would rather be. Morning and evening they praise their God and give Him thanks. As you look into this Psalm does it reflect similarly your attitude toward God and His house today—the church? Are you planted there and do you flourish?”

A long time ago I heard a wise preacher say, “Missing one worship service or class may not condemn your soul, but the attitude that leads to that absence most assuredly could!” Those words have stuck with me for over 30 years, and I remembered them again while reading brother Barclay’s words. What is your attitude toward God?
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“Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:24).

June 26, 2013 was a day of infamy for the United States of America. On that day, on both the state (Texas), and the federal level, events transpired that will further degrade our moral standing before the Almighty God of heaven.

Continue reading “In the News: A Day of Infamy” →

The apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 4, explains how, though the outward man is perishing, the inward man is renewed each day.

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The lesson gives a concise history and description of the ark of the covenant. Examining Israel’s dealing with the ark, several applications come to mind:

• God’s instructions are to be followed
• What happens when the glory of God departs
• The concept of Sanctification
• The consequences of disobedience

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Powerpoint Slides

Invitation delivered by: Stan Cox

Using Ephesians 6:12, Stan explains why the armor of God is needed.

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Invitation delivered by: Justin Carrell

Justin gives a paraphrase of Colossians 3, as Paul describes the character of the new man of Christ.

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Luke 9 is the text considered in this lesson. Self denial is the subject, as indicated in verse 24 of the text. The importance and benefits of self control and denial are considered.

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Invitation delivered by: Ben Schmidt

Ben read from Matthew 25, Mark 9 and Revelation 20 to show the difference between everlasting destruction, and everlasting reward. He made the point that our obedience, or lack thereof will determine whether our names are written in the book of life, as he called for needed repentance and obedience to the gospel.

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I read this past week of a student in Calgary who was punished with in-school suspension for coming to the aid of a classmate who was being threatened with a knife.

According to the article, Briar MacLean stepped between a bully and his victim, pushed the knife brandishing boy away, and shortly after the aggressor was subdued. Briar was thanked by the victim, and went about his school day until being called into the office where he was required to remain until the end of the day, and was questioned by school officials and police. His locker was also searched.

Continue reading “In the News: “We Don’t Condone Heroics”” →