Child of God

Isn’t it great to be able to say that “I am a child of God?” Everyone should long to be recognized as a faithful child of His. God made it possible for us to become His children by His deep love for us. John writes: “Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!” (1 John 3:1). God cares so much for those that He has created in His image, that He wants all to be saved. “who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4). Unfortunately, not everyone will be saved because not everyone is God’s child. Only the children of God will have the opportunity to have eternal salvation.

Who Is a Child of God?

Since only a child of God will be saved, it is very important to know who a child of God is. Only those that receive Jesus Christ will be His. In John 1:12 it says: “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name:” One only has the “right” to become God’s child when one believes on Jesus Christ. When one believes on Christ then one will repent of their sins (Acts 2:38; 17:30), confess Jesus as being the Son of God (Acts 8:37; Matthew 10:32; Romans 10:10), and then be baptized into Jesus Christ for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38; Galatians 3:27; 1 Peter 3:21; Mark 16:16). When one follows these steps then one is born into the family of God and one becomes His child. Yes, one must be “born again” into the family of God, the “kingdom of God” in order to be a child of God. Jesus said: “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). How precious it is to be a child of God!

Why Be a Child of God?

The apostle Paul writes: “and if children, then heirs--heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together” (Romans 8:17). We learn from this verse that it is God’s children that are heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. Only the heirs of God will be allowed entrance into heaven. Luke writes: “But those who are counted worthy to attain that age, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry nor are given in marriage; nor can they die anymore, for they are equal to the angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection” (Luke 20:35-36). In order for us to enjoy the glories of heaven we must be a child of God. Only His children will gain an inheritance to heaven which is achieved by being led by the Spirit here on earth. Paul clearly writes that “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God” (Romans 8:14). Every child of God and a true disciple of Christ understands that they must keep themselves pure and holy in His sight as they labor and toil upon this earth, knowing that one day they will be with the Lord if they remain faithful until death (Revelation 2:10).

What is the Duty of the Child of God?

Every individual who puts on Christ in baptism understands that they have certain duties that they must now fulfill in their life and service for God. Every Christian strives to imitate God. The apostle Paul writes: “Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma” (Ephesians 5:1). The way one learns to imitate God is to learn about God, which can only come through the reading and studying of His word, the Bible. The child of God learns that God means more to them than anyone or anything (Matthew 10:32-39). A child of God should be so thankful that Jesus came and gave His life for them that they would want nothing more than to live for Him, letting their lights shine brightly for Him each and every day. Jesus Himself said: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). May every Christian strive to always let their lights shine brightly in the world around them as they live FOR Jesus and God the Father each and every day of their life.

Our influence is something we possess, and others use. Do you know who is watching you? Do you know how big of an influence that you have on other people? No, you don’t. And because of that we must be very careful how we conduct ourselves every minute of every day because we don’t know who is watching --- besides God. Our influence is represented in different ways. In the book of Matthew alone, Jesus points out three ways that indicate how strong our influence is. First of all, our influence is represented by light. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14,16). This passage tells us that we will be seen no matter what. Therefore, we must be the kind of influence or example that others will be able to see Jesus Christ in us. Our influence may only seem like such a little thing to us, but Jesus says, “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three pecks of meal, until it was all leavened” (Matthew 13:33). It doesn’t take much influence to make a BIG impression on someone else who is watching you without you even knowing it. The third way that our influence is represented is stated again by Jesus in Matthew 5:13 when He says “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how will it be made salty again? It is good for nothing anymore, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men”.

As we know from our experiences in tasting salt that it is only as good as it is salty. Once it has lost its saltiness, then it is good for nothing! We also know that just a little bit of salt will add spice to many different foods. Is our life characteristic of the light, leaven, and salt? We may not have all the knowledge and wisdom that we would like to have, but there are a lot of little things that we can do to be the RIGHT influence for others to follow. Because it is the little things that others see in us that may make the difference in their eternal salvation.

The three different influences represented above could be good or bad. We know from reading 1 Corinthians 5:6-7 that we should not have a corrupting influence but rather one as Paul describes in Romans 14:21 when he says, “It is good not to eat meat or to drink wine, or to do anything by which your brother stumbles”. To be able to truly do this as a Christian we must first have the attitude that we “DO CARE” about what kind of influence that others see in us and then to do all we can to keep our brothers and sisters from seeing something in us that would lead them to fall away from the truth. We have a responsibility to ensure that we do EVERYTHING according to the will of God!

We should never try to influence others by physical force (Philemon 14), or by bribery (Acts 8:20; 24:26). But rather by our words (Acts 11:14) and by the example that we lead (Titus 2:7-8; Romans 14:21). We can see from the scriptures that each individual Christian has the responsibility to have a good influence on others (Matthew 5:13-16).

Each Christian should want to influence others in a positive way ALL THE TIME. We need to influence the world (Matthew 5:16), the other brethren (Romans 14:21; 1 Timothy 4:12), our companions (1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Peter 3:1) and of course our children. Our children see us every day and know what we are really like. If you want to know what your children think is the most important thing in your life just ask them - they’ll tell you. But hang on, it may surprise you also. That’s where your influence is showing, either in a good way or a bad way. And this is the type of influence that will be “A LASTING INFLUENCE”. We all need to ensure that our influence is a godly influence.

We Need God

We need God to help us make it through this life. Nonetheless, there are many of us who feel that we can take care of ourselves, and we don't need God. We're big and brave until the adversities and sorrows of life come upon us. When we lose loved ones, our health, or all that we own, we then realize our own inadequacy and insufficiency. It's then that we desire to go to One greater than ourselves. 

Our God is a God of comfort and consolation. Listen to 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” 

We can find assurance in the fact that we can cast all our care upon God, knowing He cares for us and is ever ready to assist His children. Philippians 4:6 tells us, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God…” Again, in 1 Peter 5:6-7 we read, “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” 

Man cannot live this life successfully without God leading him. Solomon in Proverbs 14:12 said, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” Moreover, Jeremiah 10:23 tells us, “O LORD, I know the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps.” 

Yes, we need God. Let's keep that fact in mind, and let's serve Him faithfully. 

Our Purpose in Life

We need God to give substance and meaning to our lives. Apart from God, man would not know his origin, purpose, or destiny. Knowing these things is essential to man's experiencing the substance, and understanding the meaning, of life.

God, in Genesis chapter 1, tells us of our origin. He said in verse 27, "Then God said, 'Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.' So, God created man in His own image; in the image of God, He created him; male and female He created them." 

God has also told us why we're here. Solomon declared in Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man's all. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil." This declaration was made after Solomon had explored all the avenues and indulgences of life in an effort to discover substance and true pleasure. He found it only in God. 

Thus, the whole (the essence or substance) of man is to fear God and keep his commandments. Obeying God out of dependence upon Him results in having a good foundation upon which to build. Doing God's will result in living a satisfying, rewarding and fulfilling life here, and gives the promise of being in heaven with Him when this life is over. 

How about you? What's your purpose in life? Serving God and keeping His commandments is what life is all about. 

The Life of a Christian

Every Christian should strive to live the life that they have been raised to live. The apostle Paul said in the latter part of Romans 6:4 that “even so we also should walk in newness of life.” The life of a Christian is a life of faith (Romans 1:17). Our old life was buried and now we serve the Lord in “newness of life.” Paul said in Galatians 2:20: “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” The “true” Christian realizes that the “old man” was crucified with Christ and now lives a “new”, pure life before God. John wrote: “And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure” (1 John 3:3).

The life of a Christian is also a life of self-denial. Jesus said that “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it” (Matthew 16:24-25). Some have trouble living the Christian life because they have NOT determined to really let Jesus rule their life, denying anything that would stand between them and their service to the Savior.

Peter writes: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world” (1 Peter 5:8). The Christian realizes that Satan is active and working to destroy all those that try to do good. The Christian life is not an easy life. The apostle Paul told Timothy: “all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12). If we feel that we are suffering some type of persecution as we live our Christian life, then we must be doing something right. “Count it all joy when you encounter various trials and tribulations” (James 1:2). 

The life of a Christian is also a life of prayer. Every Christian should be spending time talking to God every day (Matthew 26:41). God wants and expects us to pray to Him (1 Timothy 2:8). Are we spending time talking to God? When we talk to God, it shows Him that we are trying to do His will and we are seeking his help and guidance, along with praising Him for all that He has done for us. The Christian life is a life of obedience to God, knowing that Jesus is the “author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him” (Hebrews 5:9).

In addition to all these things, the life of a Christian is a life of growth (1 Peter 2:2), and a life of abiding in Christ (John 15:5-6). May we all strive to live the life of a Christian because after all, we are wearing Christ’s name, aren’t we? Are we really living the kind of life that our Savior Jesus Christ would be pleased with? 

Godly Living

In 1 Timothy 4:8 it says: “For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.” From this verse we can learn that it is godliness that is the most profitable for us because it is through godliness that we have the promise of eternal life. Therefore, knowing this, we should strive diligently to ensure that we are doing everything we can to live our lives in a godly manner which is formal (2 Timothy 3:5) and true (1 Timothy 6:3, 11). 

Finding True Godliness

We can find true godliness only in the gospel. In 2 Peter 1:4, Peter writes: “by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” When we open the pages of the New Testament, we find what God expects of each of us as we journey through this life. He fully expects that we live our life in accordance with His will (Matthew 7:21). When we are determined to live godly then it will show in our daily walk, which everyone in the world will be able to see (Titus 2:12). 

Why Live Godly?

There are several reasons why we must strive to live a godly life. The Bible teaches that ungodliness is condemned (Jude 4:15). When we live an ungodly life, we will NOT get the opportunity to live forever with God. We need to live a righteous life because it is profitable (1 Timothy 4:8), and commanded (2 Peter 1:6). We can live godly by denying sin (Titus 2:12), professing our faith before others (1 Timothy 2:10), and by practicing living a Christian life daily (1 Timothy 4:7).

The Results of Living Godly

First of all, when we live a godly life, doing all of God’s will, be ready to suffer some persecution. Paul told Timothy: “Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” (2 Timothy 3:12). Understanding that this will happen, we should gain strength through His Word because godliness will result in great gain (1 Timothy 6:6), and the promise of eternal life (1 Timothy 4:8). Are we living our life in such a way that it “professes godliness?”

Where's the Bible?

Have you ever found yourself asking at the conclusion of a church service “where’s the Bible?” Have you gone to church services, taken your Bible with you, and then realized after leaving that you never were asked to open it? In many churches today, sermons are given with little to no scripture included. Many times, lessons are developed and presented around the events of the day. This can help us to learn to deal with life, but it does not teach us, from the Bible, how to live our life. 

In our society, many churches have tried all kinds of things in an effort to bring people to church services. The one thing that is usually missing in most of these efforts is an appeal for people to come and learn more about the Bible. You may have even felt that churches seem to emphasize how the Bible should be made to fit our lives, rather than how our lives should be made to fit the Bible. Many churches today practice various doctrines and traditions that are not found anywhere in the Bible (Matthew 15:8-9). It would seem that if one is trying to please God in all aspects of their life, then one would want to make sure that everything that they are doing religiously is in accordance with the Bible — the Word of God (Matthew 7:21).

If you are interested in knowing this wonderful book of God, the Bible, we encourage you to visit the Poudre (Pooh-der) Valley church of Christ where only the Bible is preached, taught, and practiced. Many people today are interested in church sponsored entertainment to fulfill their needs. We, however, emphasize the necessity of learning and knowing the Bible; we emphasize the need for Christ in our life based upon His Word. We teach only the Bible because we understand the importance of what Jesus said in John 12:48: “He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him — the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day.”

The Poudre Valley church of Christ is a place where you can attend and learn the Bible. In our Bible classes, we study the words of Jesus and the inspired apostles. In this way, we can learn what individuals had to do back in the first century in order to be saved and then make those same applications to our lives. Today, most denominations trace the establishment of their church to a specific person on a specific date: anywhere from 600 A.D. to present time. However, Christ promised to build His church (Matthew 16:18), and we learn from the Bible that His church was established on the first Pentecost after His resurrection (Acts 2). The church of Christ is the church in which we belong; therefore, we strive diligently to practice only that which is authorized by God in His Holy inspired Word, the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16-17). 

We want to encourage you to come and visit the Poudre Valley church of Christ where you will quickly realize that the Bible is emphasized above all else. You will leave feeling loved and appreciated, not having to ask yourself “where’s the Bible?”

Satan - The Great Deceiver

In the past I have written several articles on the blessings of being a Christian and the wonderful love of God. But there is another force that we need to be seriously aware of and that is Satan himself. Matthew 4:1 says, “Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.” It is Satan that temps us and every day that goes by we can see the hand of Satan somewhere in it. That is why the Apostle Paul wrote “Stop depriving one another, except by agreement for a time that you may devote yourselves to prayer and come together again lest Satan tempt you because of your lack of self-control” (1 Corinthians 7:15). Paul was giving this advice to those that are married because he knew that Satan is always standing ready to tempt all with fleshly desires. One must understand that Satan is a very strong force, and we cannot let our guard down for an instant because if we do, we will be tempted by him in an instant. Peter stressed this in his writing of 1 Peter 5:8 when he said “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” Brethren, we must see Satan as an active force just waiting for us. Satan has been called a “murderer from the beginning” and “does not stand for truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature; for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). Not only is he a murderer and full of lies - the father of lies, but he is a sinner, John says “the one who practices sin is of the devil; for the devil has sinned from the beginning. The Son of God appeared for this purpose, that He might destroy the works of the devil” (1 John 3:8).

Don’t Give Satan the Advantage

We can see from all the above passages that Satan is “no good” and we need to be very cautious of him. At this point you may be asking “what should I do with him?” First of all, don’t give him the advantage. Paul said “...that no advantage be taken of us by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his schemes.” Once he gets the advantage it becomes harder and harder for us to overcome him. We must continually watch out for him (1 Peter 5:8) and resist him as James says in James 4:7 “Submit therefore to God, Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” As Christians, we should be confident that when we do resist Satan that he will flee from us. 

Put on the Armor of God

So how do we keep from giving him the advantage, to watch for him, and to resist him? By living a life that is sober as mentioned in 1 Peter 5:8. Another way to do this is to put the armor of God on us. Paul told the Ephesians “Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11). We need to study the Word of God and dwell on Godly things while practicing a life of Godliness all the time. When we do so, there will be much less opportunity for Satan to tempt us.

Satan - The Great Deceiver

Here are just a few things that Satan does that hasn’t been mentioned earlier. He entraps (1 Timothy 3:7; 2 Timothy 2:26), blinds (2 Corinthians 4:4), takes the truth away (Luke 8:12), resists good (Zechariah 3:1; Revelation 2:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:18), promotes evil (Luke 22:3; Acts 5:3), transforms himself (2 Corinthians 11:14), and he deceives as stated in the book of Revelation 12:9 “And the great dragon was thrown down, the serpent of old who is called the devil and Satan, who deceives the world; he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.”

There will come a time when Satan will no longer be a factor for the Christian. Do you know when that will occur? When this world comes to an end and all the righteous Christians are with God for all eternity. However, all mankind who have not believed and have not been baptized into Jesus Christ (Mark 16:16) and those who are in the church who have not remained faithful to the end (Revelation 2:10) will spend an eternity with the Devil! BEWARE OF SATAN and BELIEVE IN JESUS - Our eternity with God depends on it!

Defending Jesus to Others

In Acts 26:18, we find the Apostle Paul before Agrippa, defending his faith. He explains to Agrippa what happened to him on his journey to Damascus. He then explains the words of Jesus and that he is to tell others about Jesus so that others can be saved through Him. “To open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, in order that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me” (Acts 26:18).

We too can have life if we live up to what Jesus told Paul. We must first turn from darkness (sin) to the light (walking with God). “For you were formerly darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8). “For He delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son” (Colossians 1:13). We must then set our sights on having our domain with God and not with Satan. “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, {even} to those who believe in His name” (John 1:12). Through our obedience to the Word of God we will be moved to turn around so that our sins can be forgiven. Only those who determine to follow God, not Satan, can have forgiveness of sins. “And that repentance for forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in His name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem” (Luke 24:47). The Apostle Peter wrote, “.... repent, and let each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:38).

Once we have been forgiven of our sins and continue to follow God, then we will receive an inheritance! “And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build {you} up and to give {you} the inheritance among all those who are sanctified” (Acts 20:32). That inheritance is everlasting life with God our Father to those who are sanctified (which is set apart from sin and drawn near to Jesus)! Paul understood that for someone to do those things, they would have to have faith in Jesus. We will not put aside the world and draw near to Christ unless we have a true faith in Him. “But let him ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea driven and tossed by the wind” (James 1:6). Thomas would not believe in Jesus until he felt the scars of His wounds and realized that he really was looking at Jesus! We must believe in Jesus with a true faith - even though we have not personally seen Him. “Jesus said to him, "Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed {are} they who did not see, and {yet} believed. Many other signs therefore Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name” (John 20:29-31). Are we really defending Jesus to others as Paul did in his day? If so, we can praise God.

Abundant Living In Christ

Science has found ways and continues to search for ways to add to life, but the problems with most of us is, “how to add life to our years.” Abundant living is an art, and many do not find fulfilment and beauty in life regardless of years.

Abundant living is not found in materialism. A long existence does not guarantee happiness or success. The oldest man who ever lived was Methuselah and he was 969 years old. Even so, he probably did not accomplish as great things as others such as Moses, David and Paul who lived a much shorter time. Little is said of his accomplishments, but books are written on Paul and Moses. Furthermore, the abundant life is not found in secular knowledge. Solomon was one of the wisest men who ever lived, but much more is said of David, the great king of Israel, and the father of Solomon. In fact, Solomon himself said, “In much wisdom is much grief” (Ecclesiastes 1:18). Furthermore, the abundant life is not accomplished by wealth. The wise man also said of this: “It is vanity and vexation of the Spirit” (Ecclesiastes 2:11).

Jesus came to this earth so man can have and enjoy that abundant life. In John 10:10 he said: “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” I ask that you think about the seriousness of life. If we would first strive to serve Jesus, then the other things will fall into place. We can’t do it alone - we need Jesus Christ. The prophet Jeremiah said: “O LORD, I know the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps" (Jeremiah 10:23). You are encouraged to live your life for Christ. It is only when we “seek first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33), that all these things shall be added to our life. 

Strive to Be Optimistic

Also, to be successful in life, there must be optimism and to have an abundant life, there must be optimism centered in Christ. The Christian and the Bible calls it Faith. So often people think it strange that Christ would require something for which they can see no reason. Paul answers: “We walk by faith, not by sight” 2 Corinthians 5:7), and “I can do all things in him that strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). I cannot do all things by myself, but with His help, yes with faith, that is also optimism in Him, I can keep going and expect to receive the crown. Without Christ, how could one be optimistic about world affairs? How could one be optimistic about the moral breakdown of this country? But if one is in Christ, we can say, regardless of what happens in this life, my future is assured - in perfect happiness afterwards! Jesus tells us to “...be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.”

The Blessings of Being a Christian

The Forgiveness of Sins

When I entered my earthly family by natural birth, there were certain privileges and blessings which came with this birth. Once I was born others knew what my family name would be. No one had to ask if the other 2 children in the family were my siblings. That was understood. They did not vote me into the family. Being a child of my parents and receiving the blessings and privileges of the family were mine. It was something that was understood.

When I became a child of God, I received certain blessings also. In Ephesians 1:3 it says: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.” Every spiritual blessing that man has can only be if one is in Christ and one gets into Christ through baptism. Again, notice what Paul says in Galatians 3:26-27: “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” When I was baptized into Christ God also promised to forgive me of all my sins. In Acts 2:38 it says: “Repent and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.” I never had to wonder if they were forgiven, for He promised me that they would be and I simply believed it. What a wonderful thing it is to know that I did not have the burden of sin any longer. I was in God’s family, and remission of sins came also.

Fellowship with Christ

A Christian has, as one blessing of being a Christian, the fellowship with God and Christ. 1 Corinthians 1:9 says: “God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” These very same Corinthians had been baptized into Christ, and therefore had forgiveness of sins as is stated in Acts 2:38, and now fellowship with Christ. On Pentecost those that were baptized, having their sins completely forgiven understood that they were now in full fellowship with Christ.

They were so happy, Peter writes: “Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. So, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:41-42,46-47). What a wonderful thought! Remission of sins; fellowship with God and His Son and membership in the Lord’s body. Having fellowship with God is saying that one is right with God and participates with God in the blessings that only He can give to an individual. To be eternally saved we MUST be IN Christ. 

Fellowship with Other Saints

Another beauty of the Christian life is the fellowship in the local church with those of like faith. This also brings the hope of eternal life. One terrible thought of eternal hell is that we will have to spend eternity with the thieves, the whoremongers, the liars, adulterers, murders and all the other wicked people of all ages. There are many wonderful experiences we gain by being in fellowship with good people. And where is this fellowship found? In Christ - in the body of Christ, or the church of Christ. Fellowship means joint participation, and to have this mutual participation in the work of the Lord with other saints is a privilege indeed. If you have not yet been baptized into Christ, you are missing one of the greatest blessings in the world!

Heaven

When we obey the doctrine of Christ in all things, then the greatest blessing of all for the Christian is where we will spend eternity. The Apostle Paul comforts the Thessalonian brethren with this very thought. Paul says: “But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Only Christians can have this comfort - the comfort of knowing that our eternal resting place will be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Thanksgiving - More Than a Holiday

This coming Thursday the nation will celebrate together a time of "Thanksgiving" for this country that we live in. The word "thanksgiving" is mentioned several times in the New Testament. We would not get a chance to celebrate the upcoming "Thanksgiving" holiday if God had not created earth and man to begin with. Paul writes to the Corinthians and says, "you will be enriched in everything for all liberality, which through us is producing thanksgiving to God" (1 Corinthians 9:11). Paul was stressing to the Corinthians that the true reason why wealth was bestowed was not for self-gratification, but in such a way as to cause thanksgiving to God. Yes, we should always want to have a spirit of thankfulness in our hearts to our God. We are told in Philippians that we are to be "anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God" (Philippians 4:6). We are also told to have "...an attitude of thanksgiving;" (Colossians 4:2). The true attitude of thanksgiving is an attitude from our heart that says, "I am truly thankful to God for everything that He has given me to enjoy and use while on this earth". Yes, "Thanksgiving" is more than just a holiday, it's an attitude. An attitude Christians should always have on their heart year-round, realizing that all that one has is from God. We can truly be thankful for that!

Tradition and "I Think"

In regard to tradition, have you ever heard someone say, "that which is good enough for mother and father is good enough for me?" This has been said many times when it comes to family religions. When it comes to religion, any excuse that one uses to do what they want to do seems to be a good excuse as far as they are concerned. But let’s look at this same reasoning when it comes to other areas of our life. Are the farm tools used by our father and grandfather good enough for us? Is the office equipment of a hundred years ago good enough for you? If it is, then why do we have the modern machinery, computers, and electronic devices that are used today? Is the model “T” Ford good enough for us, or do we prefer the modern, faster, more convenient automobile?

So why is this true in religion? Here’s a question for us to ponder: “Could it possibly be that mother and father did not learn all about the truth of God?” If not, would it be wise to hold to their “tradition” of religion if such is not found in God’s Word, the Bible? If we really are as honest as they, will we not accept any new truth we learn? The apostle Paul wrote: “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ” (Colossians 2:8). And Peter said: “knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot” (1 Peter 1:18-19). Jesus Himself said: “He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me” (Matthew 10:37-38). When it comes down to tradition, we better make sure that we are following the tradition of Christ, and not our family, friends and other loved ones. 

Besides tradition, many have an “I think” philosophy. I have often heard people say, “I think that one religion is just as good as another.” When I’ve heard that, I must say that it honestly set me back on my heels for I was thinking, now where in the world did he read or hear that? Certainly not from the Bible that I read. In the judgment, will God judge, or will I be my own judge? Will He decide whether I go to Hell, or will I? The answer is obvious. Yet many think themselves to be the judge - or whether they are NOW saved. Just as I will have to meet with God’s approval then, so must I do so now. Yet, I hear this: “I think I am saved.” Or I've heard: “I'm satisfied with my baptism or the church of which I am a member of.”

These type of statements are alarming to me. When I hear them, it makes me think that we have just missed the whole point of religion and the Bible. The questions we should be asking are these: “Will God find me righteous at the judgment? Do I know for certain, based upon God’s written Word, that I am saved? Can I read in the Bible about the church in which I am a member of? Is God really satisfied with my baptism?” We must make sure that our answers are determined by what God has said, not what man has said. God is the judge of present and future righteousness and is the one that has set the standard of the things we must do in order to be saved and go into heaven. God has to be satisfied with what we are doing, not me, or anyone else. Knowing then that God is our judge we better be striving to do all we can to please Him because our eternal destiny depends on it (John 12:48).

The Hebrew writer wrote: “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” and “having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him” (Hebrews 9:27;5:9). Only those that obey Christ will be able to enter into heaven. Many today think that they can ride the coat tails of their fathers, mothers, grandparents, or friends into heaven. Matthew 7:21 says that only those that do the will of the Father will enter heaven. Let us all live daily, letting God’s inspired Holy Word guide us, being obedient and faithful to His Word, so that we can know that we will have an eternity with Him in heaven. Remember, Jesus also said “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). 

The Bible is Needed, and It Directs Our Way

Are we in need of any additional revelation from God today? Or is the Bible complete? I have been told that there have been and still are divine revelations from God since the Bible has been written. As a student of God's Word, I want to know whether everything I need to know is contained in the Bible as I now have it. Therefore, to find out whether the Bible is complete or not, let us go to the source, and that is the Bible itself for the answer. We can turn over to Jude 3 and read where it says: "Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints." The Greek scholars are quick to point out that the expression "once for all" means, "Once, one time ....used of what is so done as to be of perpetual validity and never needs repetition" (Thayer). This says that the scriptures (that which is written from God) were given one time - one time for all time- and there is never a need for repetition. Therefore, any claim of inspiration from anyone since the inspired men died during the first century is a false claim.

The apostle Paul speaking to Timothy tells us that "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness," (2 Timothy 3:16). That seems to say it all right there. Every piece of Scripture that we have was given to us through God's inspiration for the purpose of providing doctrine, reproof, correction, and instructing in all righteousness. Don't let anyone tell you differently, nothing but the Bible is needed because the Bible is our complete and perfect guide providing us with everything we need to know on how to be saved. 

The world without the Bible would be worse than a trip through Carlsbad Caverns without a lantern. David said, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." The Psalmist also wrote, "The entrance of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple" (Psalms 119:105, 130). The Bible stands as a complete and final revelation from God giving spiritual light to dispel darkness in our individual lives as well as in the world. The Bible lights our way here and shines to show the way to heaven. Truly then, it is a lamp shining in darkness. In the midst of wickedness, sin and selfishness, the Bible shines as a giant beacon showing the way of God like a lighthouse, standing proudly on shore, shining its bright rays to the lost ship at sea.

However, we have got to let the Bible be that shining light for us. It is only going to be able to show us the way if we open it and read what God's Word tells us (Romans 10:17). We must be determined to let God direct our every step through life. The prophet Jeremiah wrote: "O LORD, I know the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps" (Jeremiah 10:23). When we let the Bible direct our way in our daily life, we are in essence letting God direct our steps because the Bible is God's inspired revelation to man. Have you turned to God's Word, the Bible, to direct your life here on earth? If not, why not? There's no better time to start letting God lead your life, than today. Having an eternity with God depends upon it!

The Bible is Relevant to Our Needs

The Bible's relevancy to human needs stands as mighty evidence that the Bible is from God. Man is spirit and body. Both have needs, and the Bible outlines how God supplies these needs. Every need that man has whether it is physical, mental, moral, or psychological, the need is supplied and anticipated by God in His Word, the Bible. He tells us how to care for our human body. In Romans 12:1-2 the Bible says: "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." It is through the gospel of Christ, the Bible, that tells us how we are to present our body, the body that God gave us in the first place, to Him. The Bible also gives us the formula for peace of mind and peace with God, along with how to get along with others. What a wonderful book that anticipates and supplies all of our needs! This is clearly stated in Philippians 4:19 which says: "And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."

Man desires to know his origin; the Bible supplies that knowledge. Man wants to know his purpose in life; the Bible supplies that knowledge. Man wants to know his destiny; the Bible answers what will become of man. Man desires to worship; the Bible points to the true God and true worship of God. John 4:24 says; "God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." Can this be the product of mere man? We think not, but agree with the Psalmist, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalms 119:105). If man is to know his origin, purpose in life, destiny, and how to worship in spirit and in truth, then man must take up the Word of God, the Bible, and let it light the way for his life. I encourage everyone to think on these things because this is absolute “Bible Truth.”

Living a Faithful Life

We can read in the second book of Timothy where the apostle Paul exhorted young Timothy to live a faithful life unto the Lord. The instructions that he gave him are inspired instructions for us today. Let’s look at this passage of scripture and then I’ll make some comments regarding some of the things that Paul points out. “You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. The hard-working farmer must be first to partake of the crops. Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things. 22) Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will” (2 Timothy 2:1-7, 22-26).

Endure Hardship

When we are determined to study God’s Word and to apply His teaching in our life, then we will be able to endure hardship. No matter what Satan throws our way, we will be able to overcome. We can never walk in the steps of the Savior if we don’t learn what it is that we must do to walk in His steps. Jesus said: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). He has promised us that if we will take up His yoke, and learn about Him, then we will find rest for our souls. The faithful man of God is the one that really trusts in the Lord and counts on Him to deliver the faithful from the Devil.

Paul explains to Timothy (and to us), that we must endure hardship if we are to be counted worthy of Christ. A soldier of Christ is one that will do whatever it takes to please Him. If we are honestly, sincerely striving to please Jesus, then we WILL NOT get involved with the various affairs of this life which do not promote good, honest, Christian living. We should be busy pleasing our Lord!

Pursue Righteousness

We are encouraged to “pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace”. I just don’t understand why it is that individuals become Christians, and yet never really want to live as a Christian. I used to play baseball and I loved to play baseball from the time I was ten until my mid-thirties. When I put on that uniform and took the field, I was determined to do the very best I could for the team and myself. I practiced hard and played hard as I tried to become the best player I possibly could be. Here’s my point; If I was not determined to do the best I could in baseball, why play? Why should I pretend to want to play baseball if my heart was not really into it? When I became a Christian, I decided to live my life the very best I could for the Lord. In order to do that, to pursue righteousness, and the love of God, it meant that there were some things in this life that I could not do. Being a disciple of Christ means that I have to be careful where I go, what I watch, what I do, what I wear, what I say, and what I think. Paul said in Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-- meditate on these things.” 

Correct Those Who Are In Opposition

A faithful Christian who cares about the souls of others will do what they can to correct those who are in opposition to the truth. Sometimes this is not pleasant but must be done so that they may see their error, repent, and escape the snare of the Devil. Remember, if you are ever corrected by a loving saint, count it a blessing, because they care for your soul.

Keeping Your Christian Charge!

In 1 Timothy 1:5 we read "But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith". That one verse pretty much sums up what the Christian charge is all about. If we would all learn to love with a pure heart accompanied with a good conscience before God with an unwaiverable faith, we would possess some fine Christian virtues. The Lord has given us this charge and it was given to preachers (2 Timothy 4:1-2), Elders (1 Peter 5:1-4), the rich (1 Timothy 6:17) and to all (1 Timothy 1:5). The Christian has a big responsibility to God. Among the things we are charged with is "not to teach strange doctrines" (1 Timothy 1:3). However, today we can see man making up new religious rules and changing the doctrine that God has given us in scripture to fit into their individual needs and wants. This is wrong and we are going to be held personally responsible for changing God's word!

We are also told not to trust in riches of this world. Paul told Timothy to "Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy" (1 Timothy 6:17). There is nothing wrong with being wealthy, but when one lets the wealth rule their life instead of allowing God to have that place, then it is wrong and we will be held responsible for it. Those are two things we are charged not to do. But what are we charged "to do" as Christians?

The apostle Paul sent his letter to the Thessalonians and in 1 Thessalonians 5:27 we can read where the Lord was willing for the letter to be read to "all the brethren". Likewise, we are to read the scriptures and put into practice the things that God tells us to do in our own lives. We can further learn from our opening scripture of 1 Timothy 1:5 that we are to have faith in God. This is further stressed in verse 19 where it says "keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith". It is such a wonderful thing to see Christians that possess a deep and abiding faith! No matter what happens they realize that God is with them and they will stay faithful to God to the very end of their days on this earth. But we are not done yet.

The Christian charge continues in that we are to do good (1 Timothy 6:17-18), to love (1 Timothy 1:5), tell others about Christ as Paul instructed young Timothy to do in 2 Timothy 4:1-2, to war a good warfare (1 Timothy 1:18), and to give of our means (1 Timothy 6:17-18). Some Christians have an even deeper responsibility if they hold the position of Elder. Peter said to "shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock. And when the chief shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory" (1 Peter 5:2-4). Men who serve in the position of an Elder in their local congregation have a responsibility to ensure that all Christians that meet together in that local work are instructed in righteousness and must ensure that no false doctrines are preached or taught within the local congregation.

We need to understand how important our Christian charge is to serve God. It is essential to heed the commands of God in order for us to lay a good foundation in which to build upon as Paul instructed in 1 Timothy 6:19 when he said "storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed". Material things of this life will pass away. We brought nothing into the world and can't take anything out of it either (1 Timothy 6:7). We must strive to live a life with God eternally (1 Timothy 6:17-19), and to receive the crown of righteousness that is reserved for us (1 Peter 5:2-4). Won't you keep your Christian charge? 

Our Conscience

No doubt you have heard things like "let your conscience be your guide," or "if it seems right then it must be right," or "no one can have a good conscience while doing something wrong." To find out if these statements are true we must go to the source of all authority and that is the teaching of Jesus Christ and His inspired Word, the Bible. I believe it is true that our conscience should help guide us through life but we need to understand that our conscience is only as accurate as it has been taught. Just because we think something is right, it may not necessarily be so. The apostle Paul said: "Indeed, I myself thought I must do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth" (Acts 26:9). We know that while he was doing these contrary things that he was doing them in "good conscience". "Then Paul, looking earnestly at the council, said, "Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day" (Acts 23:1). Therefore, just because something seems right to us, this does not make it absolutely so and we can also do things without it offending our conscience. 

Our Conscience Must Be Trained By the Word of God

Our conscience must be trained to discern between right and wrong. If it has only been trained by our parents, then we will develop a conscience that will consist of values that we have learned from our parents. We need to ask ourselves, "where did my parents get their values?" If their values came from God’s Word then they have passed on values based upon God’s teaching and that is good. However, if they received their values of life from other sources, then you have received your values of life from your parents based on sources other than the Word of God. Why is this important? Because when our earthly life is over we are going to be judged by the words of Jesus. Jesus said: "He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him — the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day" (John 12:48). We need to understand that we must live our life on this earth with a good conscience that is based solely on the words of Jesus Christ and the authority that He gave to His inspired apostles. Peter wrote: "knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit" (2 Peter 1:20-21).
 

The Bible Is Our Inspired Guide

The apostle Paul plainly taught that the Bible is the true source wherein man can be made perfect in God’s sight. He said: "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:16-17). It is only through scripture that we can truly learn what God wants us to do in order to be pleasing to Him. The Bible must be our guide throughout life, not our conscience. Unfortunately most people go through life living for the moment and basing just about everything they do on how it makes them feel. As long as their conscience does not bother them, then they continue to partake of all the pleasures of life without any regard to what awaits them after this earthly life comes to an end. I urge you to do as the Bereans did back in the first century as they "….received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so" (Acts 17:11). Remember, your conscience is only as good as it has been taught. 

Being Imitators of Christ

As a Christian and preacher of the gospel of Christ, it is so refreshing to see Christians standing up for what they know is right based on the Word of God. It is encouraging to see Christians who are truly dedicated and consistent in their stand for truth, wanting to please God in all manner of life. In the society that we live in today this is not an easy task. Christians who read and study the Word of God know that it is very important to stay the course of righteousness and faithfulness in able to receive the crown of life. The apostle Paul encouraged us to “….be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). A dedicated Christian is one who understands this because living in eternity with Christ is their goal (Revelation 2:10). In writing to the Christians in Ephesus, Paul said for them to “….have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them” (Ephesians 5:11). There are many Christians today that need to read and then make application of what Paul has said here. Christians are to be a special, or peculiar people, set apart for service to God (1 Peter 2:9). This is not the case when one becomes engaged with anything that God has called unrighteous. We are to “expose them,” not fellowship them.

Christians know what God wants. Christians know that God is righteous and that people who do things contrary to His teaching are deserving of an eternal death. Yet, many Christians still engage themselves in unrighteous practices and give approval of others who may also practice them. Paul wrote: “who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them” (Romans 1:32). Jesus said that we must “watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41). Christians, we must be determined first and foremost to live for God in all manner of our life. A failure to do so will result in an eternal separation from Him forever more. Stand up and let God and others see that we are imitators of Christ, not the people of this world (1 Corinthians 11:1)!

"Make No Provision for the Flesh, to Fulfill Its Lusts"

Most of us probably have several Bible verses that have been among our favorites for many years. I can recall as a teenager one particular verse that helped me make good decisions in my life and service to Jesus. The verse for me was and continues to be Romans 13:14. “But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts.” Once I put on Christ in baptism (Galatians 3:27), this verse helped me tremendously in making the right choices as a young Christian. I was determined to remove myself from any situation that may cause me to succumb to sin. This verse should help every Christian in so many ways to do the same. If we don’t want to be a slave to alcohol, tobacco, drugs, etc., then we will not take that first drink, smoke that first cigarette, or begin using any illegal or dangerous drugs. We will not have to be concerned with fulfilling our lusts if we do not make any provision for those things in the first place.

In the 12th verse of the 13th chapter of Romans Paul begins the verse by saying "Let us walk properly, as in the day….” When we are walking properly, in the footsteps of Christ, then we will strive to not let anything cause us to fulfill our lusts and cause us to sin. Peter wrote, “For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps” (1 Peter 1:21). What would Jesus do? That is THE question that should be in our head constantly. When we are determined to follow in His steps, allowing Him to be our priority in life, then we will have peace of mind and a good conscience toward God, knowing that we are truly doing His will (Matthew 7:21-23). Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). We must be determined to let our light shine brightly for Christ, making no provision for the flesh to fulfill its lusts!