Category: From the Preacher’s Pen

In the last issue of the Electronic Gospel , Jeff Smith wrote about the practice of most Christian denominations to celebrate religiously the birth of Jesus on December 25th. The date is actually an example of the Catholic church appropriating a pagan celebration (the winter solstice celebration of the sun god). Jeff commented:

“It probably seemed logical to keep the holiday and dedicate it to the son of God instead, but a number of assumptions are necessary to add Christmas to a sparse biblical calendar.”

I like the phrase “sparse biblical calendar.” Jeff later pointed out, “The danger, then, is in going beyond what the New Testament does say, but also in minimizing the significance of the one ritual that really is on the church’s calendar. The first day of the week, without regard to season…”

God determined that we come together on Sunday to worship him. One Sunday is no more important than another, but they all are extremely important. It is on that day we celebrate the Lord, with a memorial feast commemorating his death. We do this because it is God’s will. The only authority for the elevation of some days above others, and the observance of Christmas day as the birthday of Jesus in particular, is the tradition of man. This is simply not sufficient (cf. Matthew 7:21-23).

As I am writing this short article, the Texas Rangers are 10 runs ahead, and about to secure their second straight trip to the World Series. A good portion of the Fort Worth/Dallas area is giddy with the pleasure of witnessing such a momentous event.

Those last few words are written a bit “tongue-in-cheek.” While it is certainly exciting, our society goes a bit far in describing an annual sporting event as “momentous.” And yet, such hyperbole will be the norm for the next couple of weeks, as the Texas Rangers try to join the Dallas Mavericks as champions this year.

There is nothing wrong with the excitement of the moment, and me and my boys were jumping up and down as the Rangers were building their early lead. But, I long for Christians to have the “first love” (cf. Revelation 2:4) that is shown by so many fanatical followers of sports in our nation.

How do you feel about God? Perhaps we should feel as the Psalmist did, as recorded in Psalm 42:1-2, “As the deer pants for the water brooks, So pants my soul for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?”

Alexander Campbell believed that as Christians in his generation sought to restore the ancient order of the Christian faith, it would lead to a golden age of God’s blessings in the world at large. The title of his paper, The Millennial Harbinger represented this sentiment.

In the Prospectus issue of the Harbinger, Campbell wrote:

THIS work shall be devoted to the destruction of Sectarianism, Infidelity, and Antichristian doctrine and practice. It shall have for its object the developement, and introduction of that political and religious order of society called THE MILLENNIUM, which will be the consummation of that ultimate amelioration of society proposed in the Christian Scriptures.

Some postulate that it was Campbell’s disillusionment at the lack of progress toward his goal that led him to adopt the innovation of the Missionary Society.

Campbell was misguided in his views. The restoration of the ancient order has no great impact upon society in general, any more than the establishment of the Lord’s kingdom 2,000 years ago led to virtue in the Roman world. What is accomplished, as the sincere gospel is preached to the world at large, is the salvation of good and honest souls. Social change is fine, but the Lord’s focus was never on the here and now, it has always been on eternity. And, that should be the primary focus and directed efforts of His disciples as well.

A problem common to our time is an inappropriately casual attitude toward worship. I recently came across a quote from a preacher, dating to 1985. I do not know of him apart from the tract, titled A Burning Fire. His name is James W. Boyd:

It makes my blood nearly boil to hear the smart-aleck liberals castigate what they call “traditionalism” in such flippant terms. One describe dour worship to God as two songs, prayer, another song, “juice and crackers.” That man proved that all fools aren’t dead. The very idea of speaking of the divinely ordained memorial to the sacrifice of the Son of God as “Juice and crackers.” You can see the level of his respect for God and His will!

The man’s purpose in writing was to encourage preachers to be careful in the language they use in and out of the pulpit. He further wrote:

Reverence and respect for that which is divine and of divine order is mandatory lest we sin by being sacrilegious and blasphemous.

It is probable that the problems with such casual and unthinking attitudes have grown greater in the 35 years since this was written. It certainly is something for us to think about!

Today we have reached the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade center in New York , and the Pentagon.

No doubt you (as do I) remember where you were and what you were doing when you got the news of the attacks. All of America watched the television, thrilled to the bravery of our firefighters and police, and mourned the loss of American lives. Voices were raised as one in condemning the cowardly attacks against our nation, and in the call for retribution against our enemy.

An important lesson seemed to be learned by our nation, as so many turned to God in the midst of the crisis. A call to righteousness was heard, and prayers were offered in the realization that our greatest help comes from the Almighty.

Unfortunately, the focus on God was short lived. As time passed, most lost the ardor and virtue that was so prevalent among Americans in the weeks following the attacks. Partisan politics returned as the parties sought to capitalize from the event. An easily distracted populace returned to its pattern of conspicuous consumption and pursuit of worldly pleasures.

As we contemplate the attacks a decade later, may we realize the importance of turning to God as our help and stay. “Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34).

On September 3, 1989 a 27 year old preacher from Odessa, TX preached his first sermon for the West Side congregation in Fort Worth, TX. He had a beautiful young wife, a 4 year old son, and a little girl just two months shy of her 3rd birthday.

Today marks the 22nd anniversary of that first sermon. In the intervening years there have been two more children, a lot of laughter and tears, the appearance of not a few grey hairs… and hopefully the seasoning and maturity of a preacher.

As we begin our 23rd year together, I wanted to take this opportunity to express my love for each of you. I appreciate the confidence you have shown in me, and the stand for truth you have taken through the years. During conflict and tribulation you have consistently shown a willingness to do what is right. You have never chafed at the preaching of God’s word, nor objected to the declaration of the “whole counsel of God” (cf. Acts 20:27). You have been kind to my wife and children, and allowed me to raise them in a stable environment that too few preachers enjoy.

In short, this congregation is in many ways exemplary. That is not to say that we have not had our share of troubles, nor that there is not much improvement that can be made—but in a day where too many have heaped to “themselves teachers, having itching ears” (cf. 2 Timothy 4:3) you are to be commended for your love for truth.

I thank God every day for you, my brethren. I pray I will have many more years and opportunities to share with you my understanding of the treasures of God’s will.

I recently read a novel that contained a passage describing gamblers playing slot machines at a casino in Las Vegas. The description noted that the gamblers were not having a particularly good time. In the author’s words, “There were no smiles, no backslapping, just intense manic concentration, as if by so focusing, the winning bars would magically line up and pay off.” The author’s conclusion? “Greed was supposed to be fun, but apparently it was only fun if you were winning.”

As usual, the world grasps the truth of a vice, while some Christians who struggle with worldly desires can only rationalize. The appeal of gambling is in the winning of filthy lucre. It is popular because of the greed of men. Those who gamble entertain the basest motives, and contribute to what is a drain and scourge on our nation and it’s culture.

There is a reason that Las Vegas is known as “Sin City.” Gambling is not the only sin to be found there, but it is certainly the most prominent. As Christians, we have spent enough of our past lifetime engaging in profane activities (cf. 1 Peter 4:3), and should now aspire to holiness.

“Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry ” (Colossians 3:5).

It is commonly recognized that proficiency in any pursuit comes as a result of focus and effort. A mother insists that a child do his best and work hard in school, promising that if he will, he will get good grades. A coach demands that his team pay attention, and give 110% and assures that success will follow.

The same is true with regard to success in spiritual pursuits. Proficiency in the knowledge of God’s word takes focus and effort. Paul instructed Timothy, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). The phrase “Be diligent” is translated in the KJV as “Study.” We study to know God’s word, this takes diligence (focus and effort).

It takes diligence and effort to “add to your faith” (cf. 2 Peter 1:5-8). It takes diligence and effort to “Walk in the Spirit” (cf. Galatians 5:16-26). These examples suffice to prove the point.

If you want to please the Heavenly Father, you must make an effort! Sluggards are simply not acceptable to Him. The wise man of Proverbs asks the question, “How long will you slumber, O sluggard? When will you rise from your sleep?” (Proverbs 6:9). Something to think about!

Consider the following admonition given at the beginning of the book of Haggai.

“Then the word of the LORD came by Haggai the prophet, saying, “Is it time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, and this temple to lie in ruins? Now therefore, thus says the LORD of hosts: ‘Consider your ways!’” (Haggai 1:3-5)

The application of this admonition should not be found exclusively with regard to the rebuilding of God’s temple, or the obvious present day application of caring for the building and grounds where we assemble. (Although that certainly would apply).

The question is, where do your interests and attention lie. Are you living selfishly, concerned primarily with your own comfort and concerns? Or, are you (first of all) concerned about the things of God?

Look around! The brethren at West Side have obligations. Toward God, toward one another, toward the lost. There are sick people, physical needs, preaching to be done — and, yes, work to be done on the building and grounds where we assemble.

Each of us need to “Consider” our ways, to make sure God is being put first!

In 1 Kings 19:10, Elijah lamented to God, “I have been very zealous for the LORD God of hosts; for the children of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars, and killed Your prophets with the sword. I alone am left; and they seek to take my life.” He had in rapid order celebrated a great victory over the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, and experienced the terror of Jezebel’s mortal threat, as she vowed to have his head by the next day.

Elijah was a great man, but this was a moment of weakness and despair. While we do not wish to judge him harshly, his despair led to self-pity. His belief that he alone remained faithful to God was mistaken. The Lord later appeared to Elijah, and said, “Yet I have reserved seven thousand in Israel, all whose knees have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him” (vs. 18).

This is a good lesson for us, as we sometimes may despair in our service to God. In our difficulties, it may seem that our trial is unique, and it simply is not. In a similar vein, Paul wrote, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man” (1 Corinthians 10:13). In reality, our circumstance is similar to that of other men, and especially of fellow Christians. This knowledge should give us both strength and comfort.

We are not alone, God and His people are with us. May we faithfully labor in His vineyard!

The following is a poem written by Tracy Gallman. Sister Gallman prepared the children’s curriculum for our recent Family Bible Study Week. The poem appeared in that material. I commend it to you!

The Path
“Walking in Sunlight”

There is a Path we are called to walk on;
By faith and not by sight.
A path where Jesus is
A Path that reveals His light.

His light will guide you and teach you
About His love and care,
The Path will never be lonely
As long as Jesus is there.

The Path may at times become rocky
And full of weeds, but…
Don’t lean on your own understanding –
Look to Jesus – Trust Him –
And with new eyes you will see
The path that Jesus sees.

Jesus calls all who hear
To follow Him along their way,
He promises to guide, guard and Save you
If in His Path you will stay.

Tracy Gallman

Many in the congregation are familiar with social networking on the computer. The most prominent example of this is Facebook, where “friends” share pictures, videos, internet links, and personal information online.

Some Facebook denizens have hundreds and hundreds of “friends”, which are in reality often merely acquaintances, schoolmates, and friends of friends. With such a large and varied “audience” reading the posts you send out, it is important to ask yourself how your Christian influence will be impacted, before posting any message, picture or other link.

Last week, I came across a beneficial quote regarding Facebook, attributed to David Lanius.

“We do need to always remember that our posts are a reflection of who and how we are. To those traveling on an honest, earnest, and genuine path of faith — diligence in purpose should always reflect His Holiness (1 Peter 1:15, Ephesians 4:29) lest we become the cause for others to sin or remain in it.”

Think about it!

Debbie and I are beginning a new stage of our lives about now, as Jeremiah graduated from high school yesterday evening. Kaleigh is leaving for school (in Nacogdoches) in August, so things will definitely be different around the Cox house.

Jeremiah is staying at home at least for the first couple of years, but will be going to school and working (if he can find a job)! So, the hatchlings are all about out of the nest.

If you see Debbie dabbing at her eyes from time to time, it is definitely at least a mild case of empty nest syndrome. As for me, I am excited about what is to come, Lord willing. Change can be good!

I am proud of my kids, and I think they know that. (I try not to tell them that too often, as I don’t want their heads to swell). I am most proud of the fact that they are all here this morning (assuming no sickness, since they are all healthy at the time of this writing), and are striving to serve God. I also am proud of what they are doing with their lives.

“Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; They shall not be ashamed, But shall speak with their enemies in the gate” (Psalm 127:3-5).

There are a couple of intervals of time each year that I identify as “meeting season”. Most congregations have their gospel meetings in the spring and fall. It can be a busy time, but there is much opportunity for edification.

While most of the area meetings are over, we still have an opportunity for spiritual growth with our upcoming Vacation Bible School (June 20-24). The adults will have a class, with curriculum mirroring the material studied by the children. We are scheduled to meet from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm each evening during this summer series.

Consider this your special invitation from me to come. The elders, in their wisdom, have included the entire congregation in their plans for edification through this effort. You will be blessed, both by seeing the enthusiasm and growth of the children, and by your participation in the studies.

There are so few opportunities to meet together in the course of a year. Each one is precious, and should be experienced if at all possible. So, can I count on seeing you there? Mark your calendars!

Meeting season has begun. As mentioned last Wednesday evening, the Old Granbury Road congregation is having brother Jimmy Stevens in a gospel meeting that begins today. Weeknight meeting time is 7:30 pm, through Friday.
Also, the Woodmont congregation has a meeting starting with brother Terrell Bunting next Sunday. If you are of a mind to travel that far, the Hewitt congregation (the Waco area) is having brother Maurice Barnett, also starting next Sunday.

Our own meeting begins in three weeks, and we need to begin our efforts in inviting others to come hear brother Kris Braddock preach the gospel. Area congregations will be more likely to attend our meeting if you have already been to theirs.

There is absolutely no better way to spend a weekday evening than in worship. You will be edified by the preaching efforts. So how about it? Will you be going to the meetings this season?