By: T. Sean Sullivan
You and I are standing at the brink of untold opportunities. Each of us has been blessed with a new day in a brand new year. A day in which, we need to set aside the weights of last year and take on the fresh newness of this year. There is something great about the unframed future in that we can set a course to follow and there is nothing out there to say we can’t achieve our goals. So shed the baggage of yesterday and begin anew today. We need to set our course for a better tomorrow.
Throughout the New Testament we are instructed to build: we are to build our own lives (Acts 20:32) and build up one another in this life (1 Thessalonians 5:11). In my experience “bricks” make strong buildings. That is handy considering the fact that I was looking for something that rhymed with our new year of 2006. So with that in mind let’s look at some “building bricks” that we need to incorporate into our life structure in “2006”.
Faith
Faith is absolutely the foundation of our action and intention. We cannot even begin to please our Creator without faith (Hebrews 11:6). We cannot conduct our lives, as we should, without faith (2 Peter 1:5-10). Faith is the first course; rested on the foundation— Jesus Christ and the structure on which the remainder of our attributes must rest. Without faith we lack the virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love that keeps one bound to proper conduct and makes a person a true disciple of Christ. Without these necessary attribute we will not survive the difficult way, which leads to life (Matthew 7:13-14).
We need strong faith. We must go to “faith’s source”. Romans 10:17 tells us that faith comes by hearing the word of God. Certainly this must be understood to also mean that application of that word is a necessary action. Even as Paul instructed Timothy to read, study and “give himself entirely” to the word (1 Timothy 4:13,15-16).
Faith is developed. It grows through increased knowledge of our Creator (Hebrews 11:6b): Who He is (Genesis 1. 2; Psalm 19:1-11; Acts 17:24-27); What He has done for us (John 3:16; Romans 5:6-8); What He continues to do for us (Romans 1:16); What He expects from us (Matthew 7:21; James 1:17-22); Knowledge of His rewards (Hebrews 11:6c); His daily help (Matthew 6:25-33; 1 Corinthians 10:13); His constant care (1 Peter 5:7); His promise of everlasting life in His glory (John 14:1-6; Revelation 21:22-27).
With strong faith we can accomplish great things. We can be better servants of God and we will bring more souls to God.
Kindness
The Greek term for brotherly kindness is philos-storgio. It is a “self-less care” for the welfare of others. It is described by the admonitions of Romans 12:9-11. The care described in that passage toward our brethren certainly covers material things, but it is also about the spiritual well-being of our brethren.
Sometimes it is easy to slip into “oblivion” where we are not thinking about anything or anyone other than ourselves. When we choose to live in oblivion we fail to be what we need to be for everyone around us. Let’s just run through the epistles looking for specific mention of things we must do for each other: Romans 12:10-16 “Be kindly affectionate to one another”; Romans 13:8 “love one another”; Romans 15:5 “Be patience and comfort one another”; Romans 15:7 “Receive one another”; Romans 15:14 “Admonish one another”; Ephesians 4:2 “Bear with one another in love”; Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving”; Colossians 3:13 “Bear with one another, and forgive one another”; 1 Thessalonians 3:12 “Abound in love to one another”; 1 Thessalonians 4:9 “Love one another”; 1 Thessalonians 4:18 “Comfort one another”; Hebrews 3:13 “Exhort one another daily”; Hebrews 10:24 “Consider one another”; James 5:16 “Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray”; 1 Peter 1:22 “Love one another fervently with a pure heart”; 1 Peter 3:8 “Compassion for one another”; 1 Peter 4:8 “Fervent love for one another”; 1 Peter 4:9 “Be hospitable to one another”.
Those examples are eighteen references in seven books that require us to pay attention to our brethren. Accomplishing all of these things simply requires kindness—Selfless concern for another’s well-being. With a strong measure of kindness we can accomplish great things. We can be better servants of God and we can bring more souls to God.
Zeal
Zeal is excitement. Zeal is strong desire. It is interesting to see how people can achieve great things when they get excited. There have been many stories of great accomplishments, all of which were achieved by those who simply became excited with a certain goal.
A great example would be 1849, in this country, a year in which farmers, storekeepers, soldiers, even school boys became gold miners. The Gold Rush of 1849 set a spark of excitement in the hearts many Americans and they, for the hope of some gold, left everything behind and began a trek across America to the west. Zeal kept those people going through the difficult terrain and hardships.
We need zeal to lay hold of the hope that Jesus promises. Jesus told us plainly that the way, which leads to life, is difficult but we will make it if we add the right amount of zeal to the equation. The Bible provides plenty of motivation to fuel our zeal. The terrifying descriptions of Hell motivate us to avoid that place (Matthew 25:30,41,46; Mark 9:44,46,48). The beautiful descriptions of Heaven motivate us that make that place our own (Matthew 25:21,23,34; Revelation 21:10-27). The picture of our loving Creator who offers His care motivates us to seek that Divine care (1 Peter 5:7).
We keep our zeal strong by recognizing our role in the success of this work. There is no more zealous worker than one who knows that the work will never be the same without their help (Ephesians 4:16). Every member of this congregation is needed. We are not the same without your abilities. With a strong zeal we can accomplish great things. We can be better servants of God and we can bring more souls to God.
Conclusion: There is something great about the unframed future in that we can set a course to follow and there is nothing out there to say we can’t achieve our goals. We have a great goal of spending everlasting life in Heaven. We have to “do” some things to reach that goal that “doing” is framed by faith, aided by kindness, and accomplished through zeal. Let’s determine to make this new year the best year of our life as a servant of God through Christ. Are you ready? ~tss
By: T. Sean Sullivan
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another…" (John 13:34). The 'you' in this verse are all who are followers of Christ, true disciples, those who are committed to living within the boundaries of His doctrine. The commandment is that we “love one another”. I suppose there are as many concepts of what “love” is, as there are people. Which way should we love one another? Jesus did not allow this “love” to be subjective—decided by all sorts of standards. He continued His statement in John 14:34 to tell us exactly what kind of love He intended in this new commandment. He clarified by adding, "as I have loved you, that you also love one another." We are to love one another in the same way that Christ loved us. .
How much did Christ love us? The immediate response might be, "Enough to give His life for us" (Matthew 27:46-54). This is absolutely true and this should stir our hearts at its very mentioning. However, it is possible to miss the rest of the picture if we focus on just that singular event. The life of Christ is full of loving examples. In this article let's take some time to consider three different periods during Christ's life here on earth in which His love is exemplified.
His Compassion
The compassion demonstrated by Jesus Christ is a tremendous expression of His love. The fullest expression of Christ's compassion is found in the fact that He saw fit to come to earth and give Himself for us. Consider where we were in relationship to God before He came (Romans 3:23). We were alienated from God by our own doing (Isaiah 59:1-2). We had all rebelled against God causing ourselves to be hopeless without Him. Christ had compassion on us and came to give us that hope that we so desperately needed (Romans 5:6-11).
Beyond that fact, we also have many specific examples that allow us to see Christ's compassion on those in need. In Matthew 9:35-36 we read that Christ had compassion on the masses because He saw them as, "sheep having no shepherd." It was His leadership that they needed. The world, without Christ's direction, wanders aimlessly--helplessly. He is our only hope. The hope we need in this life and for the life beyond. .
Another example of Christ's compassion is seen when He raises the only son of a widow woman in Nain. Luke records the event for us in Luke 7:11-13. She was left alone and without help in this world. Unlike today, with our large variety of social services that will attempt to provide for those in need, she was living in the first century and would likely not survive without someone to supply her needs. Christ did not ignore her plight and He supplied what she needed. He had compassion on her situation.
Whether we are willing to admit it or not we too are helpless and are in need of compassion. Jesus had compassion on all generations to come. He offers a way to return to God for all those who are willing (John 14:6). He allows them a way in which they can be acceptable to God (Hebrews 9:27-28), .
His Kind Understanding
It is important to make note of this specific example of Christ's love. We should always be thankful of Christ’s loving understanding. We live each day striving to be found faithful to God. Knowing that He has loving kindness—that He understands—is important for us because we also know that we make mistakes and sin.
We are not looking to take advantage of His loving understanding. We should not expect Him to look past our sins. Much rather we seek His loving kindness to offer us an opportunity to try again. This understanding is found in the message of the prodigal son. He returned to his father and the father had loving kindness toward him (Luke 15:11-20). The father did not find pleasure in the sins of his son. It was his son's willingness to return that pleased him. We must be willing to return to our Father and Christ makes that return available.
His Constant Concern For Others Above Himself
One example of Christ's love that should be imprinted on our hearts is His constant concern for others. We have a catchall of love in Christ's willingness to go to the cross. We have seen that it demonstrates His compassion and His understanding of our needs. We now can also look at it as an example of putting others before Himself.
During His prayer to the Father in John 17 we find one of the greatest specific example of Christ putting others before Himself. Consider the circumstances surrounding the situation. Jesus knew that the time had come for His death (17:1). As He prayed Judas was traveling toward Him with the mob sent from the chief priests (18:1-12). This was the last recorded prayer of Jesus before being arrested, before being falsely accused, and crucified. A time when it might be expected of Him to pray for Himself alone knowing the tremendous stress He must have been under. But, no, Jesus prays for His immediate disciples and then also for all those who would believe in Him in the time to come.
In this prayer before going to the cross Jesus prayed for you and Jesus prayed for me. From the beginning to the end Jesus knew that He was the only hope for all mankind. He did all this for others. He put us first and gave Himself to die on the cross.
One other example that so clearly depicts this selfless care is when He was already on the cross. He was suffering and close to death yet He still thought of others. He sees his birth mother nearby Him and makes arrangements for her continued care. He told John to care for her (John 19:25-27). .
Conclusion: We have a loving, caring, compassionate Savior. Jesus Christ demonstrated time and again that He cares for us. By going to the cross Jesus did not gain anything for Himself. It was all about our salvation from sins. The cross, however, was not the end of His care. Through His death He established a plan of salvation so that He could be the Savior of all who will come to God through Him. This morning, are you a follower of Christ? Are you found in His love? What is holding you back? Jesus, through His love, has made the way ready. Will you walk it today? ~tss
By: T. Sean Sullivan
Truth is a never changing fact even in an ever-changing world. Truth, by definition, is absolute and without question. It is puzzling how today’s world can disregard definitions of words like “truth” on a whim. Too many, today, believe that truth is entirely relative, or subjective. In other words, you have your truth and I have my truth, and everybody is happy. Whenever we come up with mixed answers we must find a resolve; we must find a standard of what is right and base our judgments on that standard. The standard we recognize is the Word of God—the Bible.
How does this idea of “subjective truth” stand in the light of the Bible? We could draw out many different passages to use as a text but Matthew 7:21-23 seems to hit this argument the best since we are dealing with people who want to serve God according to their own will. So, how does that stand up in comparison to the clear teaching of Matthew 7:21-23? In this passage the people were very religious; they were religious about Jesus. They certainly believed that they were right and truthful in their conduct. Jesus, however, points out that they were not doing the truth. According to Jesus, “truth” is “doing” the Heavenly Father’s will; not your own.
We apparently cannot decide what is acceptable to us and then expect that God will adjust Himself to come to us. The fact is: God created us with the desire that we should find Him and worship Him—that we would go to Him (Acts 17:27). He also in fact revealed His will to us: So that we would follow His will not our own (Hebrews 1:1-2; James 1:17-22). It is that revealed will that gives us the standard of absolute truth (John 17:17), the directions toward true salvation (John 8:31-32; John 14:6), and the standard by which we will be ultimately judged (John 12:48).
The scriptures declare that truth is specific. We are told that truth is absolute and also necessary for salvation. Every one of us here today should desire salvation and therefore the absolute truth.
We Need Open Eyes To See The Need For Truth
One of the hardest people to honestly look at is our self. We need to open our eyes to the reality of our own condition—lost without Christ. Before one will change they must see the necessity of that change. Before one will obey God they must first realize that they are lost and that they need to be saved. So where are you?
Every person, who has reached a place of accountability, needs the salvation that is found through the obedience of the truth (Romans 3:23; 6:23). Jesus quotes Isaiah’s prophecy concerning this lack of sight (Matthew 13:14-16). His final proclamation is, “Blessed are your eyes for they see…” (v.16).
When we open our eyes to the Gospel it opens our understanding. Truth causes a reaction just as it did when Peter preached in Jerusalem (Acts 2). Just as it did when Philip preached Jesus to the Eunuch (Acts 8). Just as it did when Ananias preached to Saul of Tarsus in Damascus (Acts 22:12-16). One who is willing to admit their sins and lost condition will truly understand the importance of salvation.
We Need Open Ears To Hear The Truth
Once we realize where we are our work is not over, neither is God’s help. God has delivered the required knowledge. When we see that we need to find God, He continues to help by giving us direction. We must open our ears to both hear and listen to what He says. In His word we find the message of salvation. We learn that we must be obedient to God’s will alone (Matthew 7:21). We learn that we must change our lives to conform to the example of His Son (1 Peter 2:21-23). We learn that we must maintain this change through continual faithfulness all the days of our life (Hebrews 10:35-39). All of these things require a willingness to actually listen—open ears.
Jesus used a fitting statement upon finishing a parable, He said, “He that has ears to hear, let him hear” (Matthew 13:9). In other words, “you have ears so… use them.” We must be willing to open our ears to the truth. There are times when this is not as easy as it sounds. There are passages that challenge us to change our life, and that is difficult at best. Consider Romans 12:1-2, which instructs us to change from being like the world to being different than the world. A similar passage would be 1 John 2:15-17, which instructs us to deny the world and the things of the world. This is not easy especially for anyone who has grown accustomed to worldly things. But Jesus’ finishing statement would fit into both of these passages: “He that has ears to hear, let him hear”. If we desire the benefits of the truth, we will open our ears to the Word.
We Need To Open Our Mouth With The Truth
We have looked into our selves to see that change was needed in our life. We have opened our ears to hear the truth and actually proved we were listening by making the necessary changes in order to live the truth. We are now bound ethically to share the truth. When is the last time that we spoke the name Jesus outside these walls? Have we been telling anyone at work or others in our family what Jesus has done in our life? Have we explained how we heard the gospel—the good news of salvation? Have we explained what we did and are doing to obey that gospel? Have we told them that it is available for them? We must be aware of the souls in need around us.
Once we understand the peril of sin and the hope of salvation through Jesus we will not be able to ignore the fact that others need to know. Our eyes should look upon sinners with great concern (Matthew 9:36). That concern should be taken further and we should strive to bring them to repentance and salvation (2 Peter 3:9). By talking to others about the Gospel we give them an opportunity to share in the greatest gift (Romans 5:8) and we may save a soul from eternal condemnation.
Conclusion: Do you desire the truth this morning? The truth is a never changing standard even in this ever-changing world. Jesus said, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." Are you looking for the freedom that Christ promises? Open you eyes, and your ears to the truth. Once you have obeyed, then you can join our voice in sounding the message of truth to others. ~tss
By: T. Sean Sullivan
Are you familiar with, or have you ever heard any of these terms: Raffle, bingo, chances, scratch n’ win, lottery, or gaming? Have you ever made a “wager” on the outcome of a sports event? The Super Bowl is coming up in a couple weeks. It is one of the most gambled events of the year. Our country is overwhelmed with the opportunities to gamble: The top three addictions in our society are alcohol, drugs, and gambling. The promises are “thousands” here, and “millions” there, and you know “somebody’s got to win”—however the reality is that millions of dollars are gambled and lost before anyone ever walks away with money.
Gambling is everywhere. Gambling is a hard word that is softened by the term lottery. There are several “State Lotteries” that promise big things for the population and actually the only big thing is their profit. For example: The Ohio State lottery has six “games” the 2004 ticket revenue was 2 Billion 154.2 million dollars. To put that into perspective there are 11.4 million people living in the state of Ohio. There ticket sales would equal each person in Ohio buying $189 dollars worth of tickets. Now let’s say that only one in three adults actually plays that $567 dollars worth of tickets. That is a lot of money to throw in the garbage, isn’t it? When you really open your eyes, it isn’t just a dollar any more.
Does the Bible condemn such activities? We must search the scriptures and then we will know what God expects of us in this and any other situation. Not every sin has a “thou shall not”, but the Bible does tell us how to develop our senses in order to discern both good and evil (Hebrews 5:12-14).
“The Bible Doesn’t Say, ‘Thou Shall Not Play The Lottery’ ”
Perhaps not specifically but the Bible does, however, condemn gambling on its principles. What is the agenda of gambling? On the part of the Lottery Business: to feed on the public’s greed and to have more ticket revenue, than prize payout (barely more than half of the ticket revenue is ever paid out in winnings). Then on the part of the public: to get something for nothing and to get as much money as possible for as little effort as possible.
The Bible speaks clearly on these things. Greed is covetousness, look at greed in the light of the scriptures: Romans 1:28-32 “such a little sin?” Tt is mentioned here along with “haters of God”. Ephesians 4:17-24 instructs us to no longer walk as those that are given over to greediness. 1 Timothy 6:10, to pursue “greediness” is to “stray from the faith”.
What about getting something for nothing? The picture of the lottery is getting everything you ever wanted without any effort. From the time that man was driven out of the garden we were told that we must work for our sustenance (Genesis 3:19). If a man does not work, he shouldn’t eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12). There are people in this life that get things that they do not work for by taking advantage of others. They are called thieves. We are to work and receive our livelihood (1 Thessalonians 4:11)
We Must Learn To Be Content
Why do you think that you need that much money? Are you not content with what God has given you? Do you think you deserve more? Not all of us are ten talent people (Matthew 25:14-30 “Each was given a measure according to their ability”). We are given according to our ability. We need to have the wise attitude of Agar in Proverbs 30: 7-9
Become content: Learn to find your happiness in Christ, like Paul (Philippians 4:9-13). Also consider 1 Timothy 6:6 and Hebrews 13:5.
We Must Learn To Trust In God
When a person desires to win the lottery they silently, but surely, proclaim: They have needs that God cannot meet (Matthew 6:25-34). They want their treasures now on earth and not in Heaven (Matthew 6:19-21). They don’t trust God (1Timothy 6:17).
We must develop our trust in God. The God of Heaven who, with the words of His mouth, spoke all things into existence. Who, by His own great power, was able to make this world from nothing, has promised to never forsake you or leave you (Hebrews 13:5).
Examine all the things that God has done for you in this life: your home, your health, your talents. As long as we have not wasted our talents or buried them we all should be doing the best we can. God knows our needs Matthew 6:32, if we do not appreciate what we have been given we will squander it away and will not be able to meet our needs. The things that we waste are what we have received from God in order to meet those needs.
Conclusion: Is gambling a sin? Is covetousness a sin? Is greed a sin? Is materialism a sin? Is the love of money the root of all kinds of evil? So an activity that involves all of those things is certainly a sin. That “Innocent one dollar ticket” says, “Buy me, one dollar is not going to break you”. Is that the point? Just because you do not go broke, is wasteful, covetous, greedy behavior approved. If you think that five hundred dollars doesn’t make a difference to your life and you can therefore use it any way you want consider this: Forget the lottery give it to the Lord and see what great things can be accomplished.
We must trust in God to take care of us according to His will. And no, God does not will that you make personal gain through immoral, or inappropriate means. It simply boils down to a statement Jesus made one time in a garden, “Your will, not my own be done.” Let’s start living that way. ~tss.
By: T. Sean Sullivan
"As Christians, we are wholly dependant upon truth. We have changed our lives to conform to the statutes of God’s word as “THE TRUTH.” We seek salvation through Jesus Christ as, “THE WAY, THE TRUTH, and THE LIFE.” Truth is absolute, and to say that we practice the truth is to say that it is a constant action in our lives. We cannot claim to have the truth then only be willing to live it on certain days.
There are many pressures in this life. There are situations in which we find it is hard to practice the truth. We need to consider these difficulties before we face them so that we might be prepared.
The Truth Can Be Hard To Admit
Sometimes it is hard to admit the truth. Especially when someone catches you in the wrong. In that place many would rather rationalize then admit their failure. We seem to fall back on old tricks like “passing the buck”. These excuses have been circulating since the time of Cain (Genesis 4:8-10). Most would rather deny the truth, like Peter, then admit it (Matthew 26:29-74). We also find it hard to admit the truth when we find ourselves in the wrong like the rich young ruler (Luke 18:18-23) or the mob that stoned Stephen (Acts 7:54-58). Many who think that they are religiously right react this way when they are faced with the truth. They clap their hands over their ears and they do not want to hear the truth. Many today are in that position.
The Truth Can Be Hard To Share
Sometimes the truth is hard to share when we think more of relationships than souls. We often worry about hurt feelings or making anyone uncomfortable. Jesus teaches us the importance of truth no matter who is in need of correction. Think of His relationship with Peter, even though they were friends Jesus still rebuked him for his wrongful attitude and misunderstandings (Matthew 16:23). Again, Jesus tells us the number one priority is the soul, and not the relationship, by His words in Matthew 10:22, 28, 34-39.
The truth is also hard to share when we lack faith. How will we ever convince others if we, ourselves, lack faith? It was fervent faith that, in the first century, caused the gospel to spread. It was fervent faith demonstrated by Christians that caused others to want to be Christians. Matthew 5: 14-16 says, "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” You can increase your faith by going to its source (Romans 10:17).
The Truth Can Be Hard To Live
Sometimes the truth is hard to live. When we surround ourselves with the wrong influences. Peer pressure is not just for the young. Anytime we allow others to enter into our circle of acquaintances, we allow them to influence us (Proverbs 12:26; 1 Corinthians 15:33). It is hard to live the truth when you can’t wear what is popular or do popular things that are not right. More and more of today's fashions call for immodest clothes and not only for the girls. Sometimes, depending on the crowd, other things that declare popularity are smoking, drinking, partying, and dancing. A Christian has no business with smoking and drinking. Some parents however are very permissive in allowing their children to attend "parties." These seemingly innocent gatherings are a breeding ground for rebellion and sinful activities. When a group of young people get together without adult supervision it just takes one bad idea to bring about an activity that can potentially ruin their souls and their lives.
The truth is hard to live when we try to have God and the world. We cannot have the world and have the truth too. We must choose—the world or God (James 4:4-7). God’s standards are higher and better. If we choose God we choose the more difficult way but in the end the more rewarding way (Matthew 7:13-14; Hebrews 10:35-39). Followers of the truth are to be different from the world (Romans 12:1-2). It is hard to be different.
Conclusion: Regardless of the situation and how hard it seems there is only one way to Heaven —“THE TRUTH” (John 14:6). We can prevent a lot of the hardships associated with the truth by choosing wisely: “where we are”, “who we are with”, and “what we are doing.” Today, there is a difficult situation that you may be facing. If you are not a Christian, will you become one? If you are and have not been living right, will you make it right?
We can know and do the truth. Truth is a livable way. If we take a stand for God and His will in this life, we will gain the benefits that God Himself promises. The truth is hard but we can do it. ~tss
Attitudes That Hinder Obedience
By: T. Sean Sullivan
If you have lived very long in this life, you have likely heard an excuse or two. You might have even made excuses yourself. People tend to make excuses when they are scared, when they do not know, when they just don’t want to change, or when they just don’t like what you are offering.
One time in particular, when excuses come up, is when we try to talk about the Bible with our friends, co-workers, or family. It seems like there are as many excuses as there are people. Many are very uncomfortable with the subject of God, or religion.
When speaking to any one else about religion, “An uncomfortable ear is always attached to an uncertain heart.” We need to take a few minutes to consider some excuses that I have encountered so that all of us may be better prepared to deal with them ourselves.
The—“I’m Okay: Just The Way I Am.” Attitude
There are too many who think they are just “okay”. Somehow, they have twisted their thinking to believe that God should accept them just the way they are. They “feel” like they are doing pretty good even though they totally disregard His will in their lives. They feeling are wrong since Jesus clearly stated you are either for God or against God (Matthew 12:30).
We need to share some very basic principals with an individual who has this attitude. Namely, the reality of sin; they need to know that they have a real problem and that problem is sin. Many people actually think that sin is something that religious leaders have dreamed up to squash other people’s fun. Sin is real (James 1:13-15). Sin is doing anything outside of God’s law (1 John 3:4).
Since God has delivered His will to man through Christ, (Hebrews 1:2) we are all accountable. God holds all men everywhere accountable to the new covenant (Acts 17:30-31 “Now commands all men everywhere to repent”). We are clearly told God will “judge the [whole] world in righteousness”. Jesus said that even those who do not believe would be judged (John 12:48 “My word will judge them”). The apostle Paul, through inspiration says that both believers and non-believers will stand before the judgment seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10). Because God has given man a law, all men are accountable to keep that law.
They need to know that they have sinned, you have, and they have (Romans 3:23). If we take this to the next step we have all died spiritually (James 1:14-15). When we desire to do wrong, and do it, we sin. Sin brings forth death —spiritual death—separation from God—Romans 6:23a “The wages of sin is death” [spiritual death].
We must also share the fact that there is hope. The hope we share is in Jesus Christ (Romans 5:8 “While we were still sinners Christ died for us”). John 3:16 also declares, “Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” Of course we know that “believe” means “full belief” and “obedience”. Thinking that you are okay without God, is not okay at all!
The “I Am Unacceptable” Attitude
What a sad place to be, what a hopeless attitude. Thinking, “I cannot be accepted by God.” The twist to our response is that they are right, to a certain extent. God will not accept them in their current state.
Our sins separate us from God (Isaiah 59:2; Romans 3:23). Our sins make us unacceptable to Him (Revelation 21:27). We, therefore, cannot expect God to accept us with the baggage of sins that we carry. We can however be set free from those sins.
The hope is in the fact that anyone can be made “acceptable” if they want to be.
Examples of sinners who turned to God: Saul of Tarsus (Acts 26:9-12; Acts 22:16) who was a persecutor and executor of Christians became a Christian. The Corinthian brethren (1 Corinthians 6:9-11) who were living in the pits of sin were able to be brought up and was cleansed by the blood of Christ. Ephesians 1:6 declares, “We are made acceptable”...in Christ.
No one is beyond the reach of Christ’s cleansing power. Anyone who is willing to be cleansed can be cleansed through submission to God’s will. One who is humble enough to believe they are unacceptable, is on the right track to make their life right. We need to help them.
The, “God’s Way Is Impossible” Attitude.
There are many misconceptions concerning Christianity. Some think that it is too easy. Some think that it is way too hard—even impossible. It is true that God’s way is difficult. Jesus Himself said, “Difficult is the way that leads to life” (Matthew 7:13-14). It is difficult! Not impossible. God’s expectations, according to the apostle Paul’s inspired epistle, are reasonable (Romans 12:1-2). We are to offer our bodies as living sacrifices. This means we give our lives over to service for God (Galatians 5:24). We give up (do not do) the things of the world. This is difficult but also very do-able.
God has given us the instructions in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16-17). God’s word is designed to be enabling (James 1:23-25). In fact, we must do His will, if we want to be saved (Matthew 7:21-23).
Conclusion: The more we try to talk to others about the gospel the more we will hear attitudes and excuses. Sometimes those excuses will be slamming doors. Others will be doors of opportunity. We need to listen carefully for the cries for help.
One more attitude that we all want to see is the, “What Must I Do” attitude. This is a rare but wonderful attitude to encounter. It is an open door to show someone the way. When a soul comes to the realization that they are lost and they are willing to do whatever God expects, show them the way of the word.
We need to prepare for those occasions through study and prayer. We cannot answer every attitude but we may be able to turn an excuse into a study and help someone obey the gospel. If you are not a Christian today are you going to make excuses or will you obey God. ~tss
By: T. Sean Sullivan
Baptism is one the most misunderstood subjects. There are a tremendous variety of beliefs associated with baptism and just as many doctrines. Some teach that baptism is pouring and some say sprinkling. Some teach that baptism is for infants, some say adults. Others consider baptism non-essential and disregard its practice.
Whenever there are differences and varied opinions we must go to the truth to know the truth. When we run into a topic as important as baptism, and the answers are so varied, we have turn away from man’s ideas and seek God’s direction. The Bible is clear on the subject of baptism. Unmistakeably clear! With a little searching through the words of God, we will come to the truthful conclusion.
What Is Baptism?
This is the greatest point of confusion on the whole subject. Is it pouring? Is it sprinkling? Or is it immersion? First, let’s look at the word ‘baptism’ with some comparative sentences to see if we can determine its meaning. The word ‘baptism’ is a verb (an action word), so fill in the word that best fits this blank, “Last night Zeke was ____________.” We cannot take the action of pouring Zeke. We cannot take the action of sprinkling Zeke. The only verb that correctly fits the sentence is immersion. We can immerse Zeke. From that list of options the word itself must mean immersion.
What about the actual word ‘baptism’: It is from the Greek “baptisma”. That word was a common term meaning to bury. I could say in Greek, “I have baptized (baptisma) my treasure in the field.” I am not a Greek scholar but those who study the Greek language agree. Bagster says, “To immerse”. Bloomfield says, “to immerse, to sink”. Greenfield says, “to immerse, to submerge”. Liddell and Scott say, “to immerse, to sink”. Robinson says, “to immerse, to sink” Sophecles says, “to immerse, to sink”.
The Bible example verifies that immersion was the practice intended. Romans 6:4 “Buried with Him through baptism”. Acts 8:38 “Both Philip and the Eunuch went down into the water”.
Why Be Baptized?
The “why” is simple. There is no other way to be freed from sin. Peter declared that we are baptized for the remission of our sins (Acts 2:38). Having our sins remitted is a must. We cannot enter Heaven with sins against us (Revelation 21:27). There is no other way to be saved (Mark 16:16), there is no other way to get into Christ (Galatians 3:27; Romans 6:3), and only those in Christ are made acceptable (Ephesians 1: 3-10).
One point of clarification before we move on: According to the example of Acts 18:24-26 and Acts 19:3-5, baptism for the remission of sins is the only baptism. Any other purpose is apparently unaccepatable and does not qualify for being that “one baptism” (Ephesians 4:5).
Where Can One Be Baptized
Is there a special place? The Bible doesn’t order a specific place. The right place is any place wherever there is enough water (Acts 8:36 “…see here is water’). The scriptures speak of some being baptized in the wilderness, in a river, etc. The place of baptism is our choice. We are commanded to be baptized in water, but not specific water. You could be baptized in a pool, a lake, a river, a large horse-watering trough.
Because we are allowed to do it anywhere; we have a baptistery tank right here in the building. We even heat the water for your comfort. The place where you are baptized, for the remission of sins, is the least significant part.
Who Should Be Baptized?
This has been, and is, a controversial subject. Many would teach that baptism is for infants. I simply ask, “Where is the Bible authority?” There is none! Many others teach that at a set age (10, 13, 15) when baptism is to be enforced. Again, I ask, “Where is the Bible authority?” There is none!
The Bible does, however, clearly tells us “who” should be baptized—those who are capable of belief and do believe (Mark 16:16). The example is also clear in Acts 2:37-41 as Peter finished his sermon and those who believed were “cut to the heart”. This demonstrates their true understanding. Then one additional example is found in the record of the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:37). Philip told the Eunuch “If you believe with all your heart, you may…” be baptized. All these examples sum up the fact that understanding is essential to being baptized. This excludes the very young or those who are not capable of understanding. This also excludes any thought of a set age since we all develop at different rates.
When Should I Be Baptized?
Again, there are those who have set an age in their doctrines. We know that the scriptures do not set an age. Nor can a “set-age doctrine” line up with the true requirements. There are some guidelines that may help to determine when you are ready. When you are convicted of your own sins like those in Acts 2:37. When you are convinced that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and your only hope (John 14:6). Then you are ready.
In the first century, when the gospel was preached, people were saved through obedience and baptism. The same day they were taught, they believed, and they were baptized (Acts 2:31-41). In another place we are told in the same hour they believed (Acts 16:33). There is no time for hesitation when we are dealing with avoiding eternal condemnation. There is no bad time for helping one make their life right with God. There is a certain and absolute urgency with it. (1 Thessalonians 5:1-3; Mark 16:16).
Conclusion: Do you have a soul? Are you included in Romans 3:23, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”? These are questions I can answer for you…Yes and Yes. Here are some questions you must answer for yourself. Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God? Will you confess that belief? Will you repent of you sins? Will you be baptized in water today—for the remission of your sins? Do not let another day go by—the opportunity to make your life right is now. ~tss
By: T. Sean Sullivan
What is a Christian supposed to be like? There are many ideas that may be presented to answer this question. If you ask the average person in the world, they may suggest that a Christian is any “church goer”. Some have an opinion that is so loose that it includes anyone and everyone. Others have determined a standard so incredibly tight that it hedges out even willing souls. One sad indication that more teaching is needed, is that those same responses are heard from people who are supposed to be “true Christians”—members of the Lord’s church. We must cut through the clutter and get to a more reliable source of information. We need to put away the conclusions of man and seek God's answers.
Is there a passage of scripture that answers this question? One may be able to find many passages. One may even say that the entire New Testament could be used to secure an answer to our question. One good place to start is in the inspired writings of Peter, in his first epistle. An example of how Peter helps us find an answer is 1 Peter 2:2 "As new born babes desire the sincere milk of the word." In this passage, we are told to emulate a baby’s desire for milk, with our desire for God's word. So, in essence, to be as we should be, we would need to develop a strong desire for God's word.
There are several examples of what Christians should be like in this short epistle. Each of us should read the entire epistle. For now, we will focus our attention on 1 Peter 1:13-15. In verse thirteen and the two that follow we are going to be admonished to become, "as we should be".
Being Sober
Our first admonition, "Gird up the loins of your mind, be sober." Just what is Peter asking us to do? We don't normally use this term "gird." When you hear "gird" I want you to think of the more common terms "gather" and "tighten." This term “gird” used to be much more common. There was a time when women and some men voluntarily inflicted themselves with the use of “girdles”. They were a stiff undergarment that was tightened around the mid-section to make its wearing appear thinner.
To “gird up” is to gather and tighten. The readers in the first century, and Peter himself, knew exactly what “to gird up” meant since they all wore clothing that resembled very long loose night shirts. When they intended to move about during the day they would gather the looseness of those garments at their waist with a belt so as to free their feet from tripping on the material. So where is the lesson in this? The parallel would be to gather up our loose thoughts and tighten them so that we might think soberly. In other words gather your mind and focus.
Sobriety is not only associated with the lack of drunkenness. Although it means the same either way, “sober” means clear thought or focus. We must avoid any intentional lack of sobriety. A Christian must be able to focus and stand prepared for Christ at all times (1 Thessalonians 4:1-9). In other words gather your mind and focus.
This world provides many distractions pulling our thoughts in many directions. As the world runs their rat race we, as Christians, are supposed to be different (Romans 12:1-2). By renewing our minds we find new and better thoughts. James states, "Purify your hearts you double-minded" (James 4:8). We must stay focused on the one and only direction that leads to life (Matthew 7:13-14).
Being Obedient
The second admonition in this passage is: be as obedient children. I have known the rewards of being an obedient child; I am also very familiar with the punishments for disobedience. As an obedient child I heard what my parents were saying and I listened. When I listened, I submitted and did what they asked. This is what must be done in order to be an obedient child.
The Bible recognizes only two types of children. Disobedient children who are consider fools—bringing shame to their parents (Proverbs 10:1) and obedient who are wise and bring happiness to their parents (Proverbs 10:1). Peter tells us to be as "obedient children" and he is speaking in regard to our relationship with God our Father (1 John 3:1-2). As an obedient child we will heed the instructions of our Father in Heaven. We will willingly submit to His direction. The action of obedience in this verse is perpetual it is a continual process. To say, "be as obedient children" does not in itself set a time limit of obedience. It must, therefore, be understood that our obedience is constantly and continuously expected. The same goes with the previous admonition, "be sober."
Being Like Christ
The third admonition, in this passage, is what Peter uses to sum up what he has been trying to get across in the last couple of verses. The answer to our original question, "What is a Christian supposed to be like?" is also summed up in this one statement, "Be…as He who called you". We are to be like Christ.
As Christians, we are followers of Christ (1 Peter 2:21) therefore our example should be His example (1 Corinthians 11:1). "He is Holy you also be holy in all conduct". Our conduct is to be unquestionable. We must strive to be pure lights, shining in the world (Matthew 5:14-16). To be like Christ we must know Christ. The words of the New Testament record for us His life, His work, and His way. We need to study to know what Jesus would do or how Jesus would react to the various encounters in this life. With this knowledge we will be able to be like Him, more and more everyday. The goal that we all share, given by God, recorded by Paul, is being the “measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13).
Conclusion: What should a Christian be like? A Christian should be like Christ. Christ willingly submits to God the Father. When we submit we will focus on the direction of His word and will. Peter delivered this admonition to encourage the brethren to reach for the grace that will be delivered at the revelation of Jesus Christ--in other words reach for Heaven. Do you want to go Heaven? Are you willing to submit to God's will, put away the cares of the world and put on the example of Christ? Are you willing to be as you should be? ~tss
By: T. Sean Sullivan
Many times the scriptures use an analogy of “running a race” or “walking a pathway” to bring understanding about our course of our lives. In this life there is a course that demands endurance, diligence and ultimately survival. We are, at times, confronted on all sides with those who try to pull us off course away from our goal. To guard us and help us to stand against these dangers God has given us a safety net—our brothers and sisters in Christ in our local congregation. We are here, helping one another, to achieve the greatest of goals. I end my sermons with an invitation to come forward to make your life right, “So that you can join together with us and help us get to Heaven as we help you.” It is this type of relationship that we need to think on together. In order to sustain this relationship we must meet the needs of our brethren. We need to supply our brethren with some things.
We Must Give A Sense of Reliability
One thing is a sense of reliability. Reliability is…trustworthiness: We all know that trust is not instilled in an instant. Trust must be developed. Sometimes we do misplace our trust. There are those who place their trust in the empty riches of this life (Matthew 16:26 “what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”). Some others place their trust in something other than the gospel (Galatians 1:6-9). Our trust will never fail us if we trust “the living God” (1 Timothy 6:17) Trusting in His word and will, not seeking any other. This same trustworthiness should be found in our brethren. We need to readily demonstrate this trustworthiness.
You may ask, “How can I establish this reliability?” “What can I do to instill in my brethren that I can be trusted?” The easiest way: BE HERE! Be here to exhort one another, to stir up love and good works (Hebrews 10:24-25). If you can be counted on to be at every service that speaks well of you and your reliability.
We shouldn’t need to ask this but “Why do we need to be reliable?” Because among the world we are the few and they are the many (Matthew 7:13-14)! A few can be strong if they are what Paul commended, “of one mind” (Philippians 2:1-2). If the few, even one, is with God there is great strength (Romans 8:31). Consider young David as he went into battle against the “mighty” Goliath (1 Samuel 17). His triumph was found in his single-minded faith in God. We need to be able to rely on each other for strength, encouragement and help.
We Must Give The Benefit of The Doubt
Another thing we must give is, “The benefit of the doubt”. We have already established that we are in this together as brothers and sisters in Christ. With the same goal we are on the same road. It should go without saying that we would give each other this benefit. When we constantly doubt or second-guess our brethren we drive a spitting wedge down the middle of our relationship. All too often we are suspicious and we, ourselves, develop an attitude that would say, “They aren’t as strong as me so they will fail” or “They don’t know enough”. The Bible warns against those who would have these “evil suspicions” (1 Timothy 6:3-5). It is easy to fall into this trap. So often we find ourselves reacting without a true knowledge of the situation. We base our conclusions on hearsay and half-truths instead on finding out the whole truth. When we have a problem with a brother or sister we need to go to that one and first make sure we understood them correctly (Matthew 18:15-18 Go to that one privately and work it out).
When we provide the benefit of the doubt three great benefits are known. First, it forces us to bond together, to get to know each other. We rarely place our trust in a stranger. So we will become acquainted with our brethren in order to know and trust them. Second, it forces us to deal with situations expeditiously and efficiently (Ephesians 4:25-26). Third, it puts the reality of our responsibility to one another in our minds. If I know that you will believe me and not doubt me then I will not take advantage of your trust. I am going to strive to live in such away that you will never be ashamed for trusting me.
We Must Give Love
Another thing that we must give our brethren is love. Love is all encompassing (John 13:14-35). I could have started and ended this article on this one point. The things that we have discussed so far are things that come with love. Trust comes because we love one another and have earned one another’s trust. I can rely on you because you love me.
Our love is brotherly love—strong and caring (1 Corinthians 13:4-8). The love of brethren is not to be conjured and canned. Anyone can fake a hug, our love must be true not just when it is popular but through thick and thin. Truly loving one another is an essential ingredient in our success as a Christian (2 Peter 1:5-10).
LIKEWISE: (Love is for you and me)
When I am down you pick me up…
Likewise I for you.
When I am in need you supply…
Likewise I for you.
When I am weakened you exhort and edify me…
Likewise I for you.
When I am sinning you correct me…
Likewise I for you.
When I am walking the pathway of duty you help me…
Likewise I for you.
When we, together, love God, He says…
Likewise I love you.
Conclusion: So often we are of the mindset that wants to know, “What will I profit from this.” As brethren we are concerned with other's well-being and not personal profit. When we all have this mind-set and follow through with our actions every one of us will profit equally. Remember, we are in this together and I rely on you. You can rely on me. Together, we can and will reach our goals. ~tss
Three Questions Every Christian Should Ask
By: T. Sean Sullivan
The ability to question or reason is solely ours; no other creature of God’s creation has this ability. We question and decide many times every day. Most of our daily decisions are small and their significance is temporary. Occasionally though, we are confronted with large questions that we must study and reason through. One such “large question” that we must face and certainly requires careful study is the question of our salvation. We must question our place with God. We must ask, “Am I saved; am I doing all that I can to please Him?” The answers to these questions are found in careful examination of our life in comparison to the standard of God’s word. We are exhorted to read, to study, to meditate, to give ourselves entirely to the word of God (1 Timothy 4:13. 15-16). One way of studying is simply to ask a question and then search the answer. With the two previously mentioned questions we can learn a lot by searching the Word for the answers. The Bible is full of answers to help us all the days that we live.
As Christians we need to be asking questions. There may be many questions that one could ask but I think these three are a good beginning.
Question: What Am I?
A short answer would be two words, “a Christian”. It is a short answer but it means much more than can be seen in one glance. Christians are followers of Christ. He has left behind a pathway for us that will lead us home (2 Peter 1:21-23). As I Christian I am also “a redeemed soul”. I was once lost in sin; sold out, separated from God. Now, as a Christian, I have been bought back at a great price—The shed blood of the Son of God (Hebrews 9:22-28).
I also may be described as “a soldier of the cross.” Like soldiers we are to hold the line. Our line is the line of truth. We are trained to stand strong by the word of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). We are immoveable if we do as we are trained (Psalm 16:5-8).
“The light of the world” is also a fitting description for a Christian. Jesus spoke of us being examples of good in this otherwise dark world. We are to be living examples of the effects of Christ on one’s life (Matthew 5:14-16). When we shine brightly we draw other’s attentions to God. Knowing what we are will help to focus on what we should be doing.
Question: Can I Do More?
Can I do more personally? We all have room for improvement; we need to examine our own work looking for the areas that need improvement enabling success and rejoicing (Galatians 6:4-5). The goal that shows us all that we need more is found in another question. “Am I comparable to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ?” (Ephesians 4:13). Yes, we have some room to grow and yes we can achieve this goal.
Can I do more for our congregation? There are many talented members here. This does not mean that a few can do the work for all. We all need to find a role and take up our share of the load (Ephesians 4:16). We also need to train up others behind us so that the truth will be maintained for generations to come. We need to look for opportunities to do…we are all in this work together for the cause of Christ.
Can I do more for others? There are many souls who need to hear the gospel. Jesus said the fields are ready for harvest (John 4:35). That is as true today as the day that He first called His disciples attention to looking out for souls in need. As Christians we have what everyone needs. We have one consistent truth (John 17:17). We have contentment in this life (Philippians 4:6-7). We have confidence in the truth to save us (Hebrews 3:14). We need to share what we have with others, it is what they are looking for; it is what they need.
Knowing that our examples speak louder than words, we must live what we teach if we expect others to listen. We are to influence others by reflecting Christ (Ephesians 4:13). The gospel’s effect in our life will radiate on to others. The gospel is the power of God to salvation (Romans 1:16) and the life that it leads us to is one of contentment, joy, and confident peace. These factors will influence others toward you and you will direct them toward their salvation through Jesus Christ (John 14:6).
Question: Can I Be Certain of Heaven?
Everyone “in Christ” can be. Those in Christ are those who have been baptized into Him (Galatians 3:27; Romans 6:4) and who have carefully maintained the relationship of “in Christ” by faithful service (Hebrews 3:12-14). Paul speaks of this continual effort (Philippians 3:13-14). Jesus Christ, Himself, speaks of our great reward being found only after our continual faithfulness (Revelation 2:10). Can we be certain of our reward? Yes, Christ promised it to His faithful—to all those who love His appearing: a crown of life (2 Timothy 4:8).
Conclusion: We need to reflect on our own situation and make sure that we are doing what we need to be doing. If you are a Christian then you have. at some point, questioned your stand before God and have changed in order to please Him. This change was the answer to your question. This question was the first, but not likely the last in your relationship with God through Christ. As we grow, we should question our service and make the appropriate changes. ~tss
Why Did God Give Us The Bible?
By: T. Sean Sullivan
Have you ever stopped to consider why we have this book—the Bible? There have been many speculations about the Bible. There are some who disregard this book, claiming that it is a hoax. Others see the Bible as a big book of unliveable rules. Some speculate that we would have more peace without the Bible. There is a far greater point to this collection of words for those who open its cover and read it (1 Timothy 4:13). For those who see its value and trust it, the word of God is their guide (Romans 10:17; James 1:17-18). For those who willingly change their lives to match it, the word of God is their pattern for life and their hope (James 1:22; 1 Peter 2:21-23).
The purpose of God’s revealed word is clearly stated in 1 Timothy 1:5. There are three specific points drawn for us in this verse. They reveal the purpose—true motive of God’s word: a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith. These three things are wrapped up in love. God gave us direction because He loves us. He desires that we love Him and keep His word (John 14:15).
Let’s take the time to consider these three great changes that are purposed in the word of God. As we look deeper into each point remember that their end result is becoming what God desires—loving, pure, good, and sincere.
A Pure Heart
The heart of a man is the absolute of who he is. It has been said, “A man can never rise above the level of his own heart”. The goodness of one’s heart betters his whole being (Matthew 6:22). The corruption of one’s heart affects the total of his being (Matthew 6:23). Think about the reason God brought the flood on the people of Noah’s day—every intent of their hearts was evil (Genesis 6:5).
The Wise Preacher, in Proverbs 4:23, says it this way, “Keep your heart with all diligence for out of it spring the issues of life.” Jesus, speaking of the heart, tell us that our words betray our hearts (Matthew 15:18-20a). You do not “say” or “do” anything that you have not first conceived in your heart.
We must guard our hearts from evil influence. If we can never rise above our own heart, we must keep our heart where we need to be—with God. Avoid the pollutions of the world: Find true friends, those who help you be a Christian, not those who resist you (Proverbs 12:26; 1 Corinthians 15:33). Never underestimate the wonderful comfort and help of the right friends or the negative influence of the wrong friends. Find true happiness: God wants you to be righteous and righteousness results in happiness (Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord”). Today’s world offers “happiness” through sin: drugs, alcohol, sex, and materialism. The sins of the world are not “happiness” they will potentially kill you and they will certainly bar you from Heaven (Galatians 5:19-21). Find the right pathway: The way of the world is corrupt. We must not walk in those things (Psalm 119:105; Ephesians 4:17-23).
God has designed His instructions for you. So that you can know He loves you and so that you will choose to love Him. With His word you can find the way to purifying your heart and having a better life.
A Good Conscience
The conscience is the most important of our senses. It is not typically on the list of the five major senses (Hearing, Touch, Smell, Sight, and Taste). These senses aid our decision making and so does the conscience. We can be compelled, or halted, by our conscience. Some relate it to a “little voice” inside us. Our conscience can cause emotional and physical results. We can do something against our conscience and be rapt with guilt and even feel physically ill over it. We must remember that, on the other hand, all of these senses are only “feelings” and they can be refused—callused over and hardened (1 Timothy 4:2). Some say, “Let your conscience be your guide.” That is not exactly good advice, since its guidance is dependant on its training.
We must train our conscience with truth. Parents are to “bring up their children “in the training and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). The gospel can powerfully influence a conscience, consider the reactions in Acts 2:36-42. Those who had served God according to their conscience were then confronted with the truth and it cut them to the heart. Sin clouds the conscience; forgiveness of sin clears the conscience (1 Peter 3:21). Baptism is said to be the answer of a good conscience toward God. Once we have cleansed our conscience of our past sins, we must continue to study and train our consciences to aid us in discerning between good and evil (Hebrews 5:14).
God has designed His instructions for you. So that you can know He loves you and so that you will choose to love Him. With His word you can find the way to cleansing your conscience and having a better life.
A Sincere Faith
Faith is belief, direction, and hope. The scriptures define it as “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”—faith is the tangible proof of the unseen. There are so many “faiths” today. Even in the first century there were multiplicities of faiths to choose from: idolatry, paganism, Romanism, Judaism, Christianity, etc. In a world full of faiths, which should we choose?
God’s word provides sincere faith. The word sincere means; pure, true, unadulterated. Our faith must be based on truth to be sincere. The word of God is truth (John 17:17; Titus 1:2). Jesus promised that if we abide in His word we would know the truth (John 8:31-32). It is the word that supplies truth and enables faith (Romans 10:17).
The commands of God always prove themselves true and worthy of faith. If we do them we will prosper (Psalm 1:1-6; James 1:17-25). If we do them we will endure to the end (1 Peter 1:6-9). If we do them we will be welcomed home (Matthew 7:21).
God has designed His instructions for you. So that you can know He loves you and so that you will choose to love Him. With His word you can find the way to having sincere faith in Him and having a better life.
Conclusion: It was not God intention to keep us from anything that is good for us. The Bible is not just a big bunch of rules. It was not God’s intention that we have a dreadful life. The Bible is the guide to the best life (Galatians 5:22-23) and must not be disregarded. It was not God’s intention that men would devise their own religions and go to war over them. The Bible is not the cause of war—the truth, if followed by all, is the ultimate in peacemaking.
We have the most important book on the planet in our hands today. It is designed to show you the way to love from the purity of heart, goodness of conscience, and sincerity of faith. Are you following the word?
Great Things About A Gospel Meeting
By: T. Sean Sullivan
Gospel meeting attendance is a great thing for everyone. It helps you and it helps your brethren. The lessons will inform, encourage, and direct our lives with the truth of God’s word. Gospel meetings can help others too.
Let’s really determine to be here every night during our meeting. This opportunity is not just a tradition is has been planned by our Elders to provide us with spiritual nutrition. Gospel meetings are great!
A Great Time To Invite Others
We know that we ought to talk to others, our friends, family, and people in general, about the gospel. We have known this for a long time. It is definitely not a lack of knowledge, only a lack of courage. So we grit our teeth, swallow hard, and speak the words, “Why don’t your come to church with me, sometime?” There, you said it. It is out there. All of that build up, expectation, and fear, has resulted in hearing another excuse. “I have my own church” or “I am busy on Sundays”. One excuse or another is said.
This is the disappointing thing about trying to share the gospel with others. However, there is a great opportunity to try again. Try asking, as many as you can, if they will come to services with you the first Sunday of our gospel meeting. When the excuses start to fly about “busy Sunday”, reply with, “Perfect! We are meeting Monday evening as well”.
Gospel meetings are great times to invite others. We are given opportunity to have services on days that others will be able to fit into their schedules. Try asking someone again, or bravely ask someone new.
A Great Spiritual Boost
Zeal (excitement for worship and service to God) is a flame of fire. Like a flame, zeal must be fueled. We need to get a boost every once in a while. Our regular service times are certainly able to refuel our zeal. The Bible studies times are very important because of the practicality of the material and the availability of question asking that makes these opportunities essential to our development. The worship times are opportunities for us to refocus our lives and truly reflect on why we do what we do. Our remembrance of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection is key to the realities that we face and hope for (1 Corinthians 11:23-29). The Sunday morning sermon is to encourage and uplift our lives (2 Timothy 4:1-5). The Sunday evening sermons are typically reserved for more in-depth teaching (Nehemiah 8:8). Whereas, we may take several sermons to fully consider a topic. All of these efforts coordinated by the Elders to help you grow spiritually in this life.
Gospel meetings are great times to get a spiritual boost since we have the opportunity to come together more often than normal to consider the word of God and learn from it rich treasures.
A Great Way To Study More
With any sermon there are opportunities for further study. It is a good study habit to make simple notes during any learning session, sermons included. There is an art to writing good notes—ones that you can understand and relate to later. With the understanding that there is no way the preacher is going to cover every verse and explain every possible reference on any given subject in the time allotted for his sermon you need to take the time to study further on your own. As you listen, make note of the passages and their associate points so you will later be able to consider them in more detail. Follow-through study is certainly essential to growing in knowledge. Remember it is our duty to be doers of the word, not hearers only (James 1:17-25). We cannot do what we do not know. We cannot know what we do not study (1 Timothy 4:13, 15-16).
Gospel meetings are great times to study since we are going to cover so much scripture in a short period of time. We are likely going to have enough study material for a month or two after one week of a meeting. The more we have opportunity to listen and learn, the more we have opportunity to study and learn.
A Great Way To Encourage Your Brethren
Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” We are responsible for the great and necessary work of stirring up the love of our brethren. We are told to ‘consider one another’; this combination of words enforces a mutual goal—what I do for you, you are doing for me. With that in mind, I am supposed to be here to consider you and you are here to consider me.
But what does ‘consider’ mean? Simply, “observe”. Watch one another. Get to know each other. Be aware of how well one another is doing. Look for opportunities to encourage. Be prepared to help when asked. All these things are found in our consideration of ‘one another’.
This work is something that pays for itself over and over again for those who use it well. One of the necessities of this responsibility is spending time with your brethren. The convenient time when you know where they will be and you can be with them is during our regularly scheduled services. But a gospel meeting provides more opportunities for each of us to consider one another in order to stir up love and good works in each other.
Conclusion: Gospel meetings enable you to grow more, in knowledge and zeal. They provide you with a prime opportunity to invite others to see what the church is all about—the truth. We should look forward to these wonderful and exciting times when we can become more for God, others, and ourselves. ~tss
By: T. Sean Sullivan
On March 17th the Lord blessed me with the healthy arrival of my son Hayden. As I have mentioned to a number of you already: the whole responsibility of being a parent finally hit home. This, for some reason unknown to me, did not happen when Haylee arrived, but it sure came knocking this time. The first night that we were all at home I hardly slept a wink. I was laying there in bed with a hundred million thoughts coursing their way through my mind. There were so many things to consider—the reality of my influence, my example, and my necessary direction—all these hit me at one time.
After a number of hours and a number of prayers I began to get a grip on this whole situation. Life is “one day at a time” even for parents (that is a comforting truth). God certainly is willing to provide our daily needs and worry is a fallback when faith fails. So I have resigned my cares to God and have left my distractions, my cares, and my fears with Him (1 Peter 5:7). We cannot continue borrowing from the unknown future to fuel our present worries.
I have many desires for my children in this life—goals and directions that I must carefully chart out in my life and theirs, things that will bring them to God and His ultimate reward. I want us to consider just a few of them today.
I Desire My Children To Be Happy:
Happiness is absence of distress, worry, anxiety, pressure, and discontent. Happiness is a great way to be, and we need to seek it with a strong desire to find it. This happiness is not worthy to be compared to the “temporary fixes” of sin. Too many search for happiness on the wrong road. We all need to know that happiness, true happiness, can be found and is both allowed and achievable.
True Happiness can be found if you seek it from the right source. In Psalm 1:1-6, we are instructed in how to be “Blessed”. “Blessed” means happy and content. We are told that happiness and contentment do not come from the world’s ways, or their advice. True happiness and contentment is found by those who walk is God’s counsel. The great source of happiness (delight) is in the Law of the Lord (vs. 1). Happiness is desirous and worthy of our time and effort toward receiving that happiness (vs. 2).
In the New Testament, in Galatians 5:22-23, we are told that the “Fruit of the Spirit” is happiness. The “fruit” of the Spirit is proof that you have found the benefits of the Spirit’s teachings. All the goodness that this life holds is provided in the proof of the Spirit’s influence. The source of His influence is the word (John 16:12-15; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). For my children to be truly happy they will have to know the word of God.
I Want My Children To Be Successful:
“Success” a place of security, and provision that meets their important wants and all of their true needs. There remains a lot of confusion in regard to success. There are those who are determined to have their children successful in the world’s standard of success. Many, because of this desire for success, supplant their true needs—their spiritual needs with wants that distract, delay, or destroy the true needs. Achievements in this world are not all wrong, they are just not as important as the necessities of true success (1 Corinthians 1:20-29). Education is fine, a good job is fine, until that education or job alienates my children from God.
True success for my children is them both being raised, as they should—in the training and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:1-4). I cannot allow the world to raise my children; I am responsible to raise them. I must direct my own children toward God. I must also temper my direction with an understanding that it is possible to drive them away. I must lead them so they can follow.
True success is seeing both of my children as Christians—obedient to the one gospel message (Romans 1:16-17). I understand that there is no other way for them to be saved from their own sins; there is only one way (John 14:6). There is only one gospel (Galatians 1:6-8). I cannot allow false teachings to prevail over the truth in their lives. I my