Sermon from May 2014, Stewardship & Technology

Stewardship & Technology

May 11, 2014

Church of Christ at Earleyville

I Corinthians 4:1-5

Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. 3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man’s judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. 4 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. 5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.

Consider our duty

How does technology fit in?

Social media- Facebook, Google+, Twitter, Instagram, etc

Considering the great commission shouldn’t we use all the tools at our disposal?

Be in control

Should we protect ourselves?

How?

OpenDNS

TV Guardian

Privacy settings

Awareness

Control your exposure

TV Guardian and like technology can help block/filter the media you allow in your home

Other options include Clearplay, TVSafe, & Family Safe

Control your exposure

Consider the internet, the tool we are discussing, as being similar to a city. There are good areas and bad areas. Consider Baltimore. We should use caution and treat it accordingly. We need to stay aware and alert.

Control your exposure

Check your settings on all social media

Do you control what’s posted under your wall?

Do you control who can see what you put up? Keep in mind private versus public (and never forget that these companies can change their policies at the drop of a hat so stay alert!)

As parents, are we monitoring our children? Do we check their walls, their feeds? Do we keep track of their friends and where they are going?

Control your exposure

Consider an option like OpenDNS

They have paid and free options

I use the free OpenDNS Family Shield

Family Shield does the following:

Blocks adult websites (including mail spam pictures)

Built-in anti-fraud & phishing protection

May make your connections faster

OpenDNS

Go to OpenDNS.org

Choose Web Filtering

Choose Home

Choose OpenDNS Family Shield

Then follow the instructions provided!

Use the tool!

Like most tools, some will be better than others at using a tool. Some people are good with power tools, and can help repair storm damage. Some men are good speakers and make good Gospel preachers. Other people are good with computers and social media and can use that to help share the Gospel. If you have the ability, shouldn’t you use it?

What can we do?

VBS promotion

Lesson mentions- Johnny posts what’s going to be preached a month in advance; if you see a topic that might be on point for another discussion you are having, you can mention his lesson. Maybe they will visit or request a CD!

Gospel meeting promotions

Look for opportunities! 

The Great Commission

Matthew 28:19-20

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen

Sermon from Terry Mitchell, 6/22/14

JUST WHO OR WHAT IS AN ‘ANTI’? 


        We are in a war against liberalism. Liberalism has launched its forces against the truth of God’s word and against the blood-bought church of our Lord. No true Christian can afford to be neutral or silent when such a war is raging. 
        Liberalism is the effort to cast off the obligations God has placed on us. It looks at the law of Christ and declares it is not a law, just a love-letter. Rom. 8:2; For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. It looks at the demand that sinners be baptized for the remission of sins and questions whether they really have to be baptized, and whether or not they really have to be baptized for the purpose of having their sins forgiven Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.. Liberalism allows people to remarry who have no such right from God (Matt. 19:9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
Liberalism allows practices in worship — instrumental music, hand-clapping, special singing groups, drama presentations, etc. — none of which are authorized by God (Col. 3:16-17 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. 
       These are serious matters, and the war is taking its toll in lost souls. But in the midst of such a war, we need to remember there are other ways to depart from God’s law than just through liberalism. God has given a pattern Rom. 6:17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
II Tim. 1:13,14 Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. 14 That good thing which was committed unto thee, keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.
That pattern (and all patterns) includes things we must do, things we must not do, and options. 
        “Liberalism” is the effort to take the “binding” things of the pattern and “unbind” them — to take the things we must or must not do and put them into the category of options. 

        Anti-ism, on the other hand, is the effort to bind things God has not bound, to take the options in God’s pattern (which is the New Testament) and put them into the category of obligation. Liberalism seeks to loose the law God has bound. Anti-ism seeks to make laws that God has not bound. As one preacher used to say — if you drive off the bridge or back off the bridge, you’re still off the bridge. 
        Why is it called “anti-ism?” Because it is against — it is against the freedom God has allowed. And make no mistake about it — anti-ism is just as sinful as liberalism. 
BIBLICAL EXAMPLES
        II Peter 2 deals with false teachers who were largely given to liberalism. One phrase in verse 19 and 20 is descriptive of liberalism, While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. 20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.
This is the hallmark of liberalism, to give liberty where God has given obligation. 
        In I Timothy 4, Paul deals with false teachers. In verse 3 he mentions two specific false doctrines that represent a departure from the faith: 1) forbidding to marry, and 2) commanding to abstain from meats. Marriage (so long as one is free to marry) and the eating of meats are options (I Cor. 7:2; Rom. 14). To forbid these things is to be “anti” or against the things God has allowed. In I Timothy 4:1, Paul says these attempts to make laws God has not made are “doctrines of devils.” 
        In Matthew 15, Jesus deals with people who were both liberal and anti. The scribes and Pharisees wanted to condemn the disciples for not washing their hands before they ate. This was not a law of God, it was a law of men. Men had no right to make such laws and Jesus condemns them for teaching the commandments of men 9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. But he also condemns them for making the commandment of God of no effect (v.6). Their sin in this matter was in disregarding or unloosing the law God had bound on them. They were obligated by God’s law to honor (take care of) their father and mother. They found what they thought was a loophole, and so freed themselves from the obligation God had put them under. Liberalism and anti-ism both come from a lack of respect for God’s pattern and from a misunderstanding of the pattern concept. So, they are not mutually exclusive. One can be both liberal and anti at the same time. 
EXAMPLES OF ANTI-ISM
        In the last several decades, the church has been plagued, sometimes more severely than others, by those who want to bind things God has not bound. Following is a partial list of some things some brethren are “against” because they try to turn options into obligations: 

        1. Anti Bible classes — This teaching declares that dividing into classes divides the assembly and is not authorized by God’s word. This is heresy — setting up a law that small groups of Christians cannot come together and study the Bible (Bible study). Paul taught both publicly and from house to house (Acts 20:20). We learn by example that brethren in the first century met together on the first day of the week to worship (Acts 20:7; I Cor. 14) and from that example we learn we must assemble together for worship also. However, in addition to worshiping together, it is also appropriate that we study the Bible in smaller groups (cf. II Tim. 2:15). Who would declare that it is sinful for brethren to study the Bible together? 

        2. Anti women teachers — This doctrine says that women cannot teach children or other women. For the answer to this false doctrine see Titus 2:3-5 3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; 4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

        3. Anti multiple cups in the Lord’s Supper — This teaching demands that only one cup be used in partaking of the Lord’s Supper. (Interestingly enough, my father attended a congregation where they opposed multiple cups, but they actually had two cups, one for each side of the aisle.) This heresy places emphasis on the word “cup” (singular) and fails to recognize that it is actually the contents of the cup that is being referred to. Paul quotes Jesus as saying, this cup is the New Testament in my blood (I Cor. 11:25 25 After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. — an obvious reference to the contents rather than the cup. In the next verse, Paul refers to drinking the cup. This is a physical impossibility unless he is referring to the contents of the cup. 

        4. Anti located preachers — This teaching says it is a sin for a preacher to work with a congregation that has elders or to work with a congregation for an extended period of time. The obvious error of this is seen in Acts 20 when Paul declared to the Ephesian elders (v.17) that he had taught them publicly and from house to house (v.20), and that he had worked with them for three years. 

        5. Anti Bible colleges — This heresy teaches it is solely the work of the church to teach the truth (the scriptures) and that Bible colleges try to take over this work. Of course, Paul taught in a school in Ephesus for two years (Acts 19:9-10 9 But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus. 10 And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.
If Paul taught in a school, it surely would have been proper for him to have a school and teach in his own school. And, why would it have been improper for him to invite some other faithful brethren to teach in his school also? However, while it is scriptural for a school to exist, there are at least two other concerns that need to be addressed. The first is whether or not church funds should be used to support a ‘Christian’ college. To say that a Christian college is scriptural in its existence is not to say that it is scriptural to support that work from the Lord’s treasury. A hot dog stand is scriptural in its existence, but it should not be supported by church funds. A place for young people to receive an education from Christian teachers in a Christian environment is a good concept. But it is no part of the work and mission of the church to give people a liberal arts education. Training preachers is the work of the church, but the liberal arts education of our children is not. The second issue of concern about Christian colleges is that in recent years, Christian colleges and universities have led many into the error of liberalism. They have been and continue to be the source of so much digression and apostasy today. This reminds us that the church can not and must not count on any secular institution to do its job. Such schools are the work of the home, not the church. We should not blindly follow any man or school. The Lord’s church is not dependent upon the schools. We must remember that the Lord died for the church, not the schools! They could all close their doors and the church of our Lord would still be the beautiful bride of Christ. The church certainly is sufficient to do the work God designed it to do. 

        6. Anti Cooperation — This doctrine teaches that a church cannot take money from its treasury and assist another congregation in doing the Lord’s work. Taken to its logical conclusion, this doctrine asserts that one congregation could not use the baptistery of another congregation because it was paid for out of the church treasury. Furthermore, one church could not give another church song books or even Bibles! We find congregations cooperated with each other in the New Testament (Rom. 15:26). Paul (by inspiration) wrote to the church in Corinth (as he taught other churches) and instructed Christians to give a weekly contribution into a treasury (I Cor. 16:1-2). A good portion of this money (if not all of it) was taken to the elders of the church in Jerusalem for distribution (Acts 11:30; see also II Cor. 9:12-13). Furthermore, when Paul left Philippi, he traveled to Athens and then to Corinth (Acts 16-18). He later wrote the Philippians that no other church had supported him (communicated — giving and receiving) except the congregation in Philippi (Phil. 4:15). However, he wrote to the Corinthians that while he was with them, he robbed other churches (plural) in taking wages from them, but not from Corinth (II Cor. 11:8). If no one but Philippi communicated with him in giving and receiving, but he was getting wages from other churches, Philippi must have been receiving contributions from other congregations and forwarding them to Paul. This is a clear example of church cooperation. 

        7. Anti children’s homes. The argument is made that the responsibility to care for orphans (James 1:27 27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.) is the individual responsibility of each Christian, and therefore the church cannot be charged with such care. This is clearly wrong, for the same verse enjoins taking care of widows, and the church can be charged for widows (if they are widows indeed — I Tim. 5:9-16). If the church can be charged for the care of widows, then it can be charged for the care of needy children. There are too many different flavors and brands of this anti doctrine to explain or reply to them all here. 

        8. Anti aid to non-Christians. This doctrine says that the contributions made in the New Testament were for the saints (Christians) only. They conclude from this that it is wrong to take money from the church treasury to help those who are not Christians. But, Galatians 6:10 says, “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” They argue that Galatians 6:10 commands individuals, not churches, to help all men, and that the contribution is for the saints. This too can easily be proven false. For one, the instructions given in Galatians was for the “churches of Galatia” (Gal. 1:2). And, two, the contribution commanded in I Corinthians 16:1-2 was used for Christians and non-Christians. Paul says in II Corinthians 9:12 that the contributions had supplied the want of the saints and in verse 13 refers to the distribution unto them (saints), and unto all men (non-saints). 
CONCLUSION
        There is a pattern for us as Christians (II Tim. 1:13 13 Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. 14 That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us. We do not want to throw off that pattern in any way. When we examine something, we must be careful not to take away freedom that God has extended, and we must be careful not to preach or practice freedom in that which God has bound or not extended. 
        Are anti brethren part of our brotherhood? Some groups still seem to consider themselves so, while others seem to consider themselves a separate brotherhood. One thing is clear, if they are binding where God has not bound, they are false teachers, and if rebuke and admonitions are given and rejected, God’s faithful people will take note of them and avoid them (Rom. 16:17-18 17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. 18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.

NHC devotional outline, June 2014

NHC 
June 5, 2014

Romans 1:16-20—For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ:for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith:as it is written, The just shall live by faith.
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

From the creation itself, we should all understand that there’s a Creator; our path to salvation is in acceptance of the Gospel of Christ.

Romans 8:13-17—For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die:but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint- heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

We are heirs- sons of God! See also

James 2:5—Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him.

&

Titus 3:4-7—But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

So what do we have to look forward to as heirs?
I Corinthians 15:47-57—The first man is of the earth, earthy:the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy:and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump:for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
& I Peter 1:3-5—Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

I Thessalonians 4:13-18—But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.
For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God:and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air:and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

II Thessalonians 1:6-10—Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.

Revelation 21:1-8—And I saw a new heaven and a new earth:for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain:for the former things are passed away.
And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write:for these words are true and faithful.
And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone:which is the second death.

We know what we can expect- salvation or damnation. The choice is ours. We can accept the Gospel which means accepting Christ as the Son of God. We can repent, confess our belief in Christ, be baptized for the remission of our sins. Then we strive to live faithfully, looking forward to our time in heaven.

Bulletin article from June 2014, Good Works

Good Works

As we consider our stewardship responsibilities, such as described in I Corinthians 4:2, consider what our Wednesday Ladies Bible Class has done over the last session.

Study of the Bible weekly (Acts 17:11, Psalms 1:1-2)
&
3 large quilts; one for Johnny & Lisa, 2 for burn outs in area
3 embroidered pillow cases to children of congregation
211 baby diaper shirts and 28 light weight blankets to Nicaragua
200 stuffed animals to sheriff’s office, Dr. Offices, ER. Health Dept. & Guyana
74 dresses to Guyana
155 cards, get well, sympathy, and encouragement

When you consider that Bible study is a good thing in and of itself, the additional works that the ladies involve themselves in are a demonstration of what the Bible teaches. Consider the following passages:

Titus 2:2 That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. 3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; 4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
&
I Timothy 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
&
Galatians 6:6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. 7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked:for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. 8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. 9 And let us not be weary in well doing:for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. 10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Our ladies’ class takes what they have studied and apply it in their lives. Considering James 1:22, our ladies are doers and not hearers only. We are blessed to have such active women in the congregation and I encourage those that haven’t participated in the class to seriously consider it when they restart this fall.

–Brandon Potter

Bulletin article early 2014, Contentment

Contentment

Consider Philippians 4:11- Not that I speak in respect of want:for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

It was an epiphany for me when I realized that it said learned. Being content is a learned state. We have to work at it and strive for it.

When one looks at our society there are so many things pulling at our attention that when one steps back and considers the situation it becomes obvious that Satan is using our blessings against us. How many are caught up in a rat race, trying to have more than their neighbor, never realizing their sin of envy and greed and where that leads (theft, embezzling, working extra at the expense of family, idolizing money, etc)?

We have so much in America but many have no appreciation for what they have. We take for granted we have access to an electrical grid that’s always there. Maybe if money’s tight, it might get cut off. Not like much of the world where electricity may or may not be available regardless of personal circumstance. We take for granted the ability to have running water, whether it’s city water or well water. Our country is so much richer than most of the world that it’s hard to fathom.

Let us take a step back and really look at all the physical blessings God has allowed us. Let us be careful and cautious to not let Satan use those blessings against us. Rather, let us learn to be content with our blessings and let us be good stewards (I Corinthians 4:1-2) of those blessings.

Brandon Potter

Counting with the Bible, part one (updated 4/2/14)

COUNTING with the BIBLE

ONE.

GENESIS 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

First a word study utilizing Strong’s—

Beginning:

h7225. ראשׁית re’siyt; from the same as 7218; the first, in place, time, order or rank (specifically, a firstfruit):— beginning, chief (- est), first (- fruits, part, time), principal thing.

AV (51)- beginning 18, firstfruits 11, first 9, chief 8, misc 5;

 first, beginning, best, chief beginning first chief choice part

God:

h0430. אלהימ ’ lohiym; plural of 433; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme God; occasionally applied by way of deference to magistrates; and sometimes as a superlative:— angels, x exceeding, God (gods) (- dess,- ly), x (very) great, judges, x mighty.

AV (2606)- God 2346, god 244, judge 5, GOD 1, goddess 2, great 2, mighty 2, angels 1, exceeding 1, God- ward +h4136 1, godly 1;

( plural) rulers, judgesdivine ones angels gods (plural intensive- singular meaning) god, goddess godlike one works or special possessions of God the ( true) God God

h0431.

Created:

h1254. ברא bara’; a primitive root; ( absolutely) to create; ( qualified) to cut down ( a wood), select, feed ( as formative processes): — choose, create ( creator), cut down, dispatch, do, make ( fat).

 AV ( 54)- create 42, creator 3, choose 2, make 2, cut down 2, dispatch 1, done 1, make fat 1;

 to create, shape, form (Qal) to shape, fashion, create (always with God as subject) of heaven and earth of individual man of new conditions and circumstances of transformations ( Niphal) to be created of heaven and earth of birth of something new of miracles

Heaven:

samaiym; dual of an unused singular שׁמה shameh; from an unused root meaning to be lofty; the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies revolve):— air, x astrologer, heaven (- s).

AV (420)- heaven 398, air 21, astrologers +h1895 1;

 heaven, heavens, sky visible heavens, sky as abode of the stars as the visible universe, the sky, atmosphere, etc Heaven (as the abode of God)

Earth:

 h0776. ארצ ’eres; from an unused root probably meaning to be firm; the earth ( at large, or partitively a land): — x common, country, earth, field, ground, land, x natins, way, + wilderness, world.

 AV ( 2504)- land 1543, earth 712, country 140, ground 98, world 4, way 3, common 1, field 1, nations 1, wilderness + h4057 1;

 land, earth earth whole earth ( as opposed to a part) earth ( as opposed to heaven) earth (inhabitants) land country, territory district, region tribal territory piece of ground land of Canaan, Israel inhabitants of land Sheol, land without return, ( under) world city (- state) ground, surface of the earth ground soil (in phrases) people of the land space or distance of country ( in measurements of distance) level or plain country land of the living end(s) of the earth ( almost wholly late in usage) lands, countries often in contrast to Canaan

So why is this important? What if it is just a story, a fable? Does it matter? The answer is: Yes! God as Creator gives us the foundation. We are the created so we answer to the Creator. Evolutionist and atheists and humanists attack this foundation. If you concede to them and do not accept the Word from the beginning, you have no basis for the rest. Consider the theory of absolute truth & it’s fallacies. 

Proverbs 14:34–Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.

Malachi 2:10–Have we not all one father? hath not one God created us? why do we deal treacherously every man against his brother, by profaning the covenant of our fathers?

John 1:1-3–In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

Hebrews 1:10–And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:

Mark 10:6–But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female.

Ephesians 2:10–For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. 

2:20And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

Acts 17:24-31–God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; 25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; 26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; 27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. 29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device. 30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.

Psalms 90:10–10 The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.

Psalms 137:7-19–7 Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? 8 If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. 9 If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; 10 Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. 11 If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. 12 Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. 13 For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. 14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. 15 My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. 16 Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. 17 How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God!

how great is the sum of them! 18 If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.

Exodus 21:22-23–22 If men strive, and hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart from her, and yet no mischief follow:he shall be surely punished, according as the woman’s husband will lay upon him; and he shall pay as the judges determine. 23 And if any mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life, 24 Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, 25 Burning for burning, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.

Genesis 8:21-22–21 And the Lord smelled a sweet savour; and the Lord said in his heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for man’s sake; for the imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth; neither will I again smite any more every thing living, as I have done. 22 While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease

Romans 1:20–For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

12:1-2–I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service, 2And be not conformed to this world:but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

13:1-7–Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God:the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God:and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain:for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also:for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues:tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

Colossians 1:16-19–For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:all things were created by him, and for him:17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church:who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;

3:10–And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

Ecclesiastes 12:1–Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;

Genesis chapter 1 through 3

True faith requires action

True faith requires action

Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.
Martin Luther King, Jr. From brainy quote

Niagra falls story..from creative Bible study
The amazing Charles Blondin story is that of the famous French tightrope walker crossing Niagara Falls.
Blondin’s greatest fame came in June of 1859 when he attempted to become the first person to cross a tightrope stretched over a quarter of a mile across the mighty Niagara Falls.
He walked across 160 feet above falls several times, each time with a different daring feat - once in a sack, on stilts, on a bicycle, in the dark, and once he even carried a stove and cooked an omelet!
On one occasion though, he asked for the participation of a volunteer.
A large crowd gathered and a buzz of excitement ran along both sides of the river bank. The crowd “Oooohed!” and “Aaaaahed!” as Blondin carefully walked across one dangerous step after another – blindfolded and pushing a wheelbarrow.
Upon reaching the other side, the crowd’s applause was louder than the roar of the falls! Blondin suddenly stopped and addressed his audience: “Do you believe I can carry a person across in this wheelbarrow?” The crowd enthusiastically shouted, “Yes, yes, yes. You are the greatest tightrope walker in the world. You can do anything!”
“Okay,” said Blondin, “Get in the wheelbarrow…..”
The Blondin story goes that no one did!
——————
(Later in August of 1859, his manager, Harry Colcord, did ride on Blondin’s back across the Falls.)

True faith involves belief and trust and action.

Biblical Examples include:

Abraham and Isaac
Hebrews 11:17-19
By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac:and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, 18 Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:19 Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.

Hebrews 11:6 is the classic text:
But without faith it is impossible to please him:for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Noah
Hebrews 11:7
King James Version (KJV)
7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

And finally,
James 2:14-26
14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, 16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? 17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works:shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. 19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well:the devils also believe, and tremble. 20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? 22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? 23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness:and he was called the Friend of God. 24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?
26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

Cody Robinson & Brandon Potter

Devotional on service

We looked at the great commission from Christ at the end of Matthew’s Gospel. We then discussed ways we can observe His commands by serving. Some of the ideas the teens had were:
1) teach class, whether it be Sunday school, Wednesday night. Bible Study or VBS (KC, IE, CL, HY, & MY).
2) help those in need through clothing drives, food/pantry assistance, or counseling (BD).
3) learn foreign language to assist in foreign mission work (MD).
4) preaching (JL).
5) host small group Bible studies, whether it be worldly friends or fellow Christians (SD).
6) lead singing (SM).
Overall I believe we had a good discussion on service. I also believe the teens have good thoughts & plans for the future.

God as King (from September 2012)

God as King

Sometimes we get so comfortable with the concept of grace that we neglect or lose perspective on our relationship with God.

The Lord God Almighty; as we begin this study keep in mind that yes, we are fellow heirs (Romans 8:17) and it’s through His grace we are saved (Romans 5:15-17). But we should not lose sight of God as Creator of all (Romans 1:20,21- everyone will be expected to understand the concept of something greater)- blessed be the feet that bring the gospel (Romans 10:14-15). If we have recognized through His creation that there is something more, then when we hear the Gospel we should be eager to learn more and do as the Creator has set in order.

If we look at the Old Testament as a schoolmaster (Galatians 3:24), then let us see how God is described- (multiple scriptures, OT & Revelation).

We often criticize 1st Century Jews (John 18) for expecting a warrior king like David, but if we look at how the Lord is described, are we actually going to the opposite extreme? Are we too “familiar” with the Lord, or are we too casual, lacking the proper respect? He is the Creator, Lord of lords, God of gods, King of kings…

We are part of the creation. What He says, goes. Period. We are offered salvation through His grace, not our sinless perfection, yes, but we should be striving to do the best we can through our love and respect for our Creator. Paul explained this to the Romans as well (Romans 6:15-18).

I’ve seen disrespect- Compare what Paul describes in Romans 8:15 versus the “daddy” public prayer in worship. Private prayer life is far different from public leading of prayer, but even in private prayer life we should mind our Ps & Qs.

So what’s the point? We should strive to do what the Lord wants because He is in charge, not us! He has told us what we should do so we should do it! Hear, believe, confess our belief, turn from our old life of sin, and be baptized. After that we should continue to study and do as He has in instructed in the Bible. As we sing the song, “None of Self, All of Thee”, think about it.

Can you look in the mirror honestly? (I Corinthians 13:11,12) The previous verses describe that which was in part, the spiritual gifts, being done away when the perfect, or complete, is come. My understanding is that describes the scriptures we have. We have access to that which the Creator has given us. When we look the in mirror, we see ourselves. We have the Scriptures to compare against. Several questions are then raised. Do we need to obey the gospel? Do we need the prayers of the Church? Do we need to make ourselves right with our Creator? While we sing our invitation song, please reflect on this. If one of these actions needs to taken, please come forward while we stand and sing.

<<<Now the scriptures & definition from the presentation>>>

Romans 8

17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

Romans 5

15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. 16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. 17 For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.

Romans 1

20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

Romans 10

14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

Galatians 3

24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

I Samuel 8

7 And the Lord said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them.

Psalms 10

16 The Lord is King for ever and ever: the heathen are perished out of his land.

Psalms 24

1 The earth is the Lord ’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein

Psalms 29

10 The Lord sitteth upon the flood; yea, the Lord sitteth King for ever.

Psalms 47

1 O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph.

2 For the Lord most high is terrible; he is a great King over all the earth.

3 He shall subdue the people under us, and the nations under our feet.

Psalms 95

3 For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.

Psalms 136

2 O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever.

3 O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever.

Psalms 145

1 I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever.

Revelation 17

14 These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.

John 18

10 Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus. 

11 Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?

Romans 6

15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. 16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? 17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

Romans 8

15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

Abba

ABBA

New Testament

Noun: αββα (abba), GK 5 (S 5), 3x. abba is an Aramaic word that means “father”; it is a term of endearment used within the family circle (not unlike our word “dad”); its degree of familiarity toward God was unknown in Judaism. Jesus uses this term in reference to his heavenly Father in his prayer in Gethsemane (Mk. 14: 36). Paul uses this term twice in his letters, both times with reference to what the Spirit inspires us do when we become believers in Jesus and so become children of God: we begin to cry out to God as “Abba, Father” (Rom. 8: 15; Gal. 4: 6). *

-from Mounce’s Complete Expository

I Corinthians 13

11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

Marriage (from July 2013)

Marriage

Miriam-Webster defines marriage as

noun

1 a (1) : the state of being united to a person of the opposite sex as husband or wife in a consensual and contractual relationship recognized by law (2) : the state of being united to a person of the same sex in a relationship like that of a traditional marriage <same-sex marriage> 

b : the mutual relation of married persons : wedlock 

c : the institution whereby individuals are joined in a marriage

2 : an act of marrying or the rite by which the married status is effected; especially : the wedding ceremony and attendant festivities or formalities

3 : an intimate or close union <the marriage of painting and poetry — J. T. Shawcross>

“Same sex marriage”?????

Romans 1:24-27 King James Version (KJV) 

24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.

What about a Christian choosing a spouse?

2 Corinthians 6:14-18

King James Version (KJV)

14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?

16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.

18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

Is this really that big a deal? It’s covenant between husband, wife and God.  Look at the description of the adulterous woman…. 

Proverbs 2:16-19

King James Version (KJV)

16 To deliver thee from the strange woman, even from the stranger which flattereth with her words;

17 Which forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forgetteth the covenant of her God.

18 For her house inclineth unto death, and her paths unto the dead.

19 None that go unto her return again, neither take they hold of the paths of life.

What else does the Word tell us about marriage and non-believers?

Deuteronomy 7:2-4

King James Version (KJV)

2 And when the Lord thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them:

3 Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son.

4 For they will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly.

And then we have the example of what occurred in Ezra chapters 9 & 10. Then return to the new testament and consider what Paul tells us in I Corinthians chapter 7.

Divorce? Pretty plain when we let the Bible speak for itself.

Matthew 5:31-32

King James Version (KJV)

31 It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:

32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

As we consider marriage, we need to avoid worldly influence and instead look to the Word. 

Romans 12:1-2

King James Version (KJV)

1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

– G Brandon Potter, July 2013