Author: Stan Cox

The term militant is defined in the English language as—1) engaged in warfare or combat : FIGHTING; 2) aggressively active (as in a cause) : COMBATIVE. (Merriam-Webster).

Interestingly, the term has a bit of a negative connotation in our day and time. To be militant in anything is frowned upon. That is why militance is paired with words like extremism, dogmatism, radicalism, and intolerance. Today a large section of our society looks askance at full devotion to any cause. Continue reading “Militance in the Faith” →

As Paul expresses his admiration for the example of the Thessalonians, he expresses the part the gospel played in their good conduct.

The gospel first of all showed Paul and his companions to be legitimate servants of God. The demonstration of power, given through the intervention of the Holy Spirit allowed those who heard Paul to acknowledge his legitimacy as an apostle.

“Then all the multitude kept silent and listened to Barnabas and Paul declaring how many miracles and wonders God had worked through them among the Gentiles” (Acts 15:12).

Additionally, there was power in the words themselves because they were inspired, from the Holy Spirit. They did not originate from Paul himself (2 Peter 3:16).

Their acceptance of the gospel was not without cost, as Paul notes they were afflicted for their faith. Regardless, they were joyful in their service (Galatians 5:22-23). And, their steadfastness in faith served as a wonderful example to other Christians.

There are three initial illustrations that are used to describe the nature of the tongue in James 3.  Interestingly, the first two illustrations are positive in nature.  The first, “Indeed we put bits in horses mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body” (3). The second, “Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires” (4). Continue reading “The Tongue – Controlled and Uncontrolled” →

An interesting illustration is used by the writer of Hebrews to describe the danger of a Christian losing his standing with God. Yes, I know that many deny it is a possibility, but both the direct words (Hebrews 6:4-6), and the illustration that follows (6:7-8) clearly teaches it is true.

“For the earth which drinks in the rain that often comes upon it, and bears herbs useful for those by whom it is cultivated, receives blessing from God; but if it bears thorns and briers, it is rejected and near to being cursed, whose end is being burned.”

Ultimately, the illustration establishes that our continued standing with God is determined by how we respond to the redemptive blessing He has granted to us. We celebrate the fruitful land that brings us sustaining crops. But if the same rain brings only thorns and briers, it is not only not useful, but not accepted. Consider the phrase, “it is rejected and near to being cursed, whose end is being burned.”

There is hope for the unfaithful. The illustration shows, “near to being cursed,” that God’s judgment for Christians bearing thorns and briers instead of good fruit is not yet certain.  It is near, but there is time for repentance, at least until a day comes where the time is ended.  “…whose end is being burned.”

The Hebrew writer was hopeful that his warning would bring change and renewal (6:9-12). If so, diligence will bring reward. If not, rejection will be final.

There is no more important, beautiful and momentous message ever spoken by man than the Gospel message. It is God’s message to save mankind.

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Josh Cox explains the worthy walk exhorted by Paul in Ephesians 4:1-6

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Paul here gives a wonderful description of our Lord, expressing His preeminence.  He is the visible manifestation of God (John 14:9). He is the firstborn over all creation – not first created, but the preexisting Creator (John 1:3). The creation was created “for” Him as our Lord and God (Revelation 5:13). He is “before all things”, the preeminent One. In effect, His standing with relation to creation is supreme. He preceded it in eternity.  He is the Creator.

He also holds creation together.  That is the meaning of the word “consist.” In Hebrews 1:3, the writer affirms that the Son upholds “all things by the word of His power.” As such, the universe will continue until such time as He determines to bring it to an end (2 Peter 3:10-12).

Finally, He is the head of the church. He has all authority (Ephesians 5:23-24). The church is His creation (Matthew 16:18), and its hope comes from His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20-23).  So He is  peerless, unique, and supreme, in all things. Praise Him!

In Deuteronomy 18, Moses told the people that prophets other than Moses would rise from the nation to “speak to them” all God required of them, (cf. 18:15-18). This, of course, is seen in the history of the nation. The most significant voices that followed, men like Elijah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, etc., have had their voices recorded in the canon of the Old Testament. The Hebrew writer spoke of these men. “God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets…” (Hebrews 1:1).

An obvious question arises. How were they to know the prophet was from God? Consider Moses words, “And if you say in your heart, ‘How shall we know the word which the Lord has not spoken?’— when a prophet speaks in the name of the Lord, if the thing does not happen or come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord has not spoken; the prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you shall not be afraid of him” (Deuteronomy 18:21-22). Continue reading “The Presumptuous Prophet” →

Peter had instructions for women married to non-Christians. “Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, ² when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear” (1 Peter 3:1-2).

It is an interesting concept, winning souls to Christ “without a word.”  Of course, this doesn’t mean that there is another way of saving souls other than through the preaching of the gospel (cf. Romans 1:16). Rather, it is a strong statement about the efficacy of good influence.

Many men are not swayed by the words of a preacher. However, if they see Christian principles in action — morality, integrity, kindness, mercy and love — they may become convinced that there is “something to” being a Christian.  Then, when the gospel is shared, their heart is fertile and responsive to the truth.

It works when wives show a good example to their husbands, and when husbands show that same type of example to their wives. It also is effective in other familial relationships (an important principle for parents to consider), with friendships, and any others you may impact in the day to day exercise of your faith.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

An examination of Calvinism, especially as it pertains to the redemption of men. Referenced in the Lesson is the Acrostic TULIP, which is commonly used to summarize the tenets.

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A discussion of the text of Ecclesiastes, learning from the wise man how to live a balanced life.

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