J. Randal Matheny
Richard Mansel
Barbara Ann Oliver
mtmcvb
Weylan Deaver
Mike Riley
philsanders
jajenkins5
Don Ruhl
jimnewy
Richard Hill
Laura
Ron Thomas
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Glenda Williams
John Henson
Troy Spradlin
Stephen R. Bradd
Larry Miles
Ed Boggess
joyjensen
drkenney
paulaharington
Chad Dollahite
John T. Polk II
Richard S. Reinhardt, Jr.
The Old Cowboy
BrotherhoodNews.com Religion News News
Check out Oran Burt’s article, “Searching for Understanding,” in the attached pdf file. He ponders how to reach younger generations influenced by postmodernism. Oran is preacher and elder with the Somers Ave. congregation in N. Little Rock AR. The church needs more thoughtful research like this as we face the new challenges before us to presenting Christ to people with different philosophies.
Observer January 29.2012.pdf
A bad plan is better than no plan at all. A bad plan has a chance, however small, of going somewhere. No plan guarantees going nowhere. Likely, perfectionists will be the main objectors to this.
• “… one who makes light of small matters will gradually sink,” says Ecclesiasticus (not Ecclesiastes) 19:1 NJB. Methinks there’s a truth here, applicable to the slippery slope where men slowly slide into false doctrine. (All that alliteration was unintended.) Remember the old illustration (which is almost certainly false) of the frog in the pan?
• Epaphroditus was sent by the Philippian church to minister to Paul’s needs, besides carrying some financial help (Php 2:25-29). Instead, he got deathly sick. When he returned to Philippi, the saints might have thought him a failure, since instead of his ministering to Paul, Paul would have had to take care of him. But the apostle will have none of that. He gives him a rousing recommendation as he sends him home. Even shares his title of “apostle” with Epaphroditus, though of course in a different sense, of being the Philippians’ messenger or envoy. Some scholars think this passage is the heart of the book.
• The envoy who looks like a failure is really a success. Sound familiar? Read earlier in the chapter, verses 5-8.
• Anybody done any real work on the meaning of “work out” in Philippians 2:12? Obviously, it must relate to the obedience mentioned in the same verse. NLT has a definite twist in its rendering, making one wonder if this is accurate or slanted by evangelical faith-only doctrine. NCV sounds better to my ears (“Keep on working to complete your salvation”), but either might be right. Got an insight here into the contextual meaning?
• People love Fridays so much, because they can flee work for a couple of days. Is it a sign that work is not considered a legitimate means of service to God? Makes one wonder.
• Finally, a scrap of poetry, on a matter not so small.
Never did a human hope
Take quicker wing to headier heights,
Nor did a hand reach greater scope
Or covetous eyes see grander flights,Than Eve before the Knowledge Tree
Of good and evil in Eden’s midst—
No harm so deep to humanity,
That fruit in her rebellious fist. —JRM
As many of you know, I maintain web sites of my own and for both congregations and individuals. I am getting ready to create a website so a brother in the Midwest can present his sermon outlines, articles, and probably some audio sermons. It is his desire that they reach as many as possible. I will link to it from some of my sites and hope you will also.
He asked me to investigate some Sermon Outline sites. Do any of you know of any where he/we might feature the outlines? He asked about sermon outline Webrings. Any suggestions you might have will be appreciated. I also plan to promote it on my social media sites
Well The Old Cowboy got rid of the BitDefender Virus Software and I am back. In the last couple of days I have gone back and looked over some of the early newspaper articles of Oklahoma native Will Rogers. One statement he made sticks out; “The road to success is potted with many tempting parking spaces.” Nothing like some good advice from another true Oklahoma cowboy, and he was a roper too.
The Church of Christ is convinced that they have the precisely correct understanding of the Bible. But critics say that they have strayed from their original purpose of Christian unity. They accuse the Church of Christ of having a different gospel, being divisive and sectarian, legalistic, and ignoring or explaining away passages of Scripture that do no fit their presuppositional interpretation. Church of Christ author K. C. Moser accused his brothers of preaching A PLAN instead of THE MAN. By this he meant that they belittle the finished work of Jesus while elevating man’s role in salvation. Could any of these charges against such a biblically based group be at all true?
Here is an article by a Church of Christ insider offering a candid look at their exclusive thinking. See chapter 18 of Heritage. It appears, however, that the legalistic patternist segment of the Church of Christ is dwindling, as indicated by this article: Ephiphanies.
RT- I suppose if Leroy Garret, Carl Ketcherside, and Al Maxey are your sources of information then there is no telling what might be “learned” falsely about the Lord’s church in the various communities. They are not sources of authority, and they are outside the “mainstream;” thus, not representative of what is taught by the majority. With that said, however, it can’t be underscored enough that each local congregation teaches in accordance with their understanding of the New Testament – there is no “headquarter” (or an equivalent word) that gives “marching orders.”
QUESTION: If you are a Church of Christ person reading this, let us describe a situation that might be revealing. Let’s say that you are introduced to a preacher or elder of conservative denomination (not Church of Christ). How do you feel inside? Do you greet this person with love and a feeling of warmth to be with another believer and servant of the Lord? Or do you immediately feel a sense of distance, antagonism, uneasiness, or superiority?
RT – What kind of substantive series of questions are these? Any time one interacts with another Matthew 7:12 and 22:37-40 applies. To answer precisely: I feel fine inside and with regard to another status in relation to the Lord I am not so presumptuous to judge. The fact that a person is a servant or not a servant of the Lord is immaterial to how I will approach him (or her). On the other hand, if in conversation more is learned then perhaps we can pursue that topic. Nope, I feel no distance, antagonism, and most certainly, no superiority.
What is the Gospel? Please see our article What is the Gospel.
1. Doesn’t 1 Cor 15:1-11 give the clearest and principle definition of the gospel as being something to be believed about Christ dying for our sins? Doesn’t gospel mean “good news” in Greek (as the ancients used the word for events such as the birth of an emperor or a major military victory)? We fear that a non-believer visiting a Church of Christ and hearing that the “good news” is a list of things that they have to do, would not see it as good news. Is it not ultimately found in the grace of God (Acts 20:24 and Col 1:3-6)?
RT – One might say that the Corinthians passage gives a succinct idea, but is this exclusive of the “gospel” in Ephesians 4? To attempt to give a succinct idea without substance to that idea is futile. Paul said he delivered first of all the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. Does this mean that while the Lord lived one ought not to include that in the gospel? What did the Lord read and preach in Luke 4:18 – but the gospel! Moreover, is it not the case that others things are also included (1 Timothy 6:3; Romans 15:18)? The “gospel” is the good news, message of Jesus Christ. Your third question in this series is perplexing to me, especially in relation to your lead in. in any case, I will answer Titus 2:11-14. Perhaps I should ask: did Jesus require anything of a person if that person would be saved?
2. According to Rom 1:16 and 1 Cor 1:18, by whose power is the gospel—God’s or man’s? Don’t these passages teach that the gospel is the power of God unto salvation, not the power of man?
RT – The answer to the first question is the former, the second, YES.
On a group discussion list, a good brother asked in his sincere study of the Word,
If we say that “children” (in the qualification for elders) can mean one or multiple children, then would the same rule apply to the word “elders”? Would it be Scriptural to have just one elder if he truly met the qualifications laid out in Scriptures?
Ron T. replied,
I would suggest not on the basis of Philippians 1:1, Titus 1:5, Acts 14:23. The plurality in these verses will not allow for a singularity of application.
I liked Ron’s expression here, besides agreeing with him. I might add Acts 15:2, 4 to the list.
I’m beginning a study of the eldership in preparation for a study in another state, at the request of a congregation now in the process of selecting supervisors and servants, so this exchange got my attention.
Congrats to Weylan Deaver, who has an article published in Bulletin Digest, January’s issue, I think. I don’t have the copy with me at the moment. The article is “No Matter What … God Is Not Mad at You.”
My print copy came in the mail, with December 2011′s issue, a couple of days ago.
I had no idea, but hope it it helpful to someone.
It was in our bulletin.
This morning while looking through some old quotes, I found this one from Thomas Jefferson; “When ever you do a thing, act as it the world were watching.” He was right, the world was watching him.
Actually the answers to our problems do not exist within mankind. Only in Christ can we find what we seek as human beings. Sin will continue to be here and everything that comes with it (1 Peter 5:8). We cannot stop it no matter what we do. All we can do is give ourselves to the Lord, so He can help us deal with them (Romans 5:6-11; Acts 2:37-38; Acts 22:16).
“A silly idea is current that good people do not know what temptation means. This is an obvious lie. Only those who try to resist temptation know how strong it is… A man who gives in to temptation after five minutes simply does not know what it would have been like an hour later. That is why bad people, in one sense, know very little about badness. They have lived a sheltered life by always giving in.” [C.S. Lewis].
An excellent post!
Yes, Lewis was a thought-provoker. I don’t remember if it was he, or another writer, who made the point that Jesus knew temptation’s power even more than any of us, since, by resisting till he conquered, he always experienced temptation’s full force.
The mount of transfiguration is interesting and perplexing. It is interesting because of what transpired; it is perplexing because for what reason do we read it? In Matthew we read of its occurrence after Jesus’s discussion of His own death and resurrection; more than this, though, we have the Lord’s exhortation to His disciples that each needs to take up the cross and follow Him (also in Mark and Luke). For whose benefit was this “change of form” for? It could not have been for Jesus – at least it does not appear so – but then why only three of the twelve were present? For that matter, why was it that only the prophets Elijah and Moses were present with Jesus? Moses was the great law-giver that God chose for the great occasion of deliverance, and Elijah never saw death. Luke tells us that the conversation between the three was in regards to the death Jesus was about to experience (Luke 9:31). Interestingly enough, the Greek word in Luke 9:31 is exodon (exodus). As Peter spoke there was a “bright cloud” that overshadowed them; thus Moses, Elijah (Peter, James and John?) were in the presence of God, as the shekinah enveloped them (cf. Exodus 40:34-38).
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Elijah must come first, and the disciples saw him on the mount with Jesus and Moses. Was the prophetic word of that which the scribes taught (as recorded in Malachi 4:5-6) come to pass (be fulfilled)? In the Hebrew Bible there is no Malachi 4; it is 3:23-24. The teaching of the rabbis have varied between (1) Elijah will be the first resurrected, (2) he will come from Gan Eden in both body and soul (that is, he is still alive; he did not die), (3) to the fact that for assurance of his return Jacob (Israel) took a letter from Elijah’s name as “security that Elijah will come and herald the redemption of the children of Jacob” (ArtScroll, volume 2 (The Twelve Prophets), p. 338). From all this we learn that the Jews are still waiting and looking.
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How much faith do you have? Is it something to be measured in quantity? Jesus spoke of having faith as little as a mustard seed – if the disciple had it a mountain could be moved. Really? We learn from the disciples that there were two things necessary before they could expel the demon (or heal the boy). It was not a matter of simply the boy being harmed by some physical ailment, because Jesus rebuked the demon within the child (v. 18). The two things needed were authority and faith. Did they have either? Presumably they had the former, but it was the latter that was lacking. In v. 21 (NKJV; also in Mark 9:29), Jesus said there were two others things missing: prayer and fasting. The disciples had three strikes against them! If they just had a “little bit of faith” then a mountain could be moved. The mountain in this context was the rebuking of the demon. Just like those of that day, we also use a proverbial saying to make a greater point.
Enjoyed your good thoughts!!
Thank you, Doug.
The book of Proverbs is full of wise sayings. The Holy Spirit, especially in this book, has packed a lot of wisdom into few words. Proverbs 20:24 is a succinct verse I’ve been contemplating recently – “A man’s steps are of the LORD; how then can a man understand his own way?”
Although God has granted free will to every human being, man is not in a position to adequately guide himself alone. Man (whether righteous or wicked) cannot understand all the long-term consequences of his daily choices (in both word and deed), but God certainly does understand and is very much involved in the lives of those made in His image. He is Master over everything–including that which we do not understand and cannot presently perceive. I believe that this verse addresses the providential guiding of Almighty God. God knows the end from the beginning; He knows how to work out things for good in the ultimate sense for those who love Him (cf. Rom. 8:28).
So, what should we do in light of these truths? We should wait upon the Lord! We should confess our own ignorance and insufficiency before God and trust Him–even when it feels like He has forgotten us or is working against us. We should serve God to the best of our ability, even when we do not understand why certain things are or are not happening in our lives presently. I have compiled a list of verses from the Old Testament on this theme that I’d like to read at this time:
Psalm 25:1-5 – “To You, O LORD, I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in You; let me not be ashamed; let not my enemies triumph over me. Indeed, let no one who waits on You be ashamed; let those be ashamed who deal treacherously without cause. Show me Your ways, O LORD; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; on You I wait all the day.”
Psalm 37:1-7 – “Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass. He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him.”
Psalm 52:8,9 – “I trust in the mercy of God forever and ever. I will praise You forever, because You have done it; and in the presence of Your saints I will wait on Your name for it is good.”
Proverbs 20:22 – “Wait for the LORD, and He will save you.”
Isaiah 30:18 – “For the LORD is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for Him.”
Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.”
Jeremiah 14:22 – “Are there any among the idols of the nations that can cause rain? Or can the heavens give showers? Are You not He, O LORD our God? Therefore we will wait for You, since You have made all these.”
Zephaniah 3:8 – “‘Therefore wait for Me,’ says the LORD…”
Although the contexts vary from which these verses are taken, the general theme is very clear. Wait on the Lord–in other words, trust Him enough to serve Him and rely upon Him in crisis and in the good times. He will take care of you and see you through! Is there something you strongly desire to be added to your life but God has not blessed you with yet (like a godly mate, for example; cf. Prov. 18:22)? Wait on the Lord; He knows what is best for you and His timing is perfect. Is there something you strongly desire to have removed from your life but God has not done so yet (like a thorn in the flesh, for example; cf. II Cor. 12:7ff)? Wait on the Lord; He knows what is best for you and His timing is perfect. Indeed, “a man’s steps are of the Lord” (Prov. 20:24). There is nothing better for a Christian to do than to trust and obey God, no matter what. Such a course will lead to joy and peace that passes understanding.
Tim Tebow did it again. He threw the winning touchdown in his first playoff game during overtime. In spite of pundit’s and naysayers, Tebow has led his team to success. Why do the media experts so oppose Tebow? I think it is because he openly declares his faith in Jesus. He wears his faith on openly and many cannot stand it. However, most Americans realize the value of someone of Tebow’s openness and honesty. When the fifth annual Celebrity Neighbor survey was taken Tebow was named the most desirable neighbor, edging out such stars as Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. But the biggest winner of all was “none of the above” with 42% saying they would prefer not having a celebrity neighbor. At least, in spite of a declining morality and religious climate, many Americans still see the value of honest and open Christian faith. This is Just-a-Minute with Ed Boggess
The Old Cowboy had a few minutes to read a little about the 9 signs of loosing organizations.
1. Fuzzy Vision: Corporate vision and mission don’t inspire people, and people don’t know where the organization is going and what it is trying to achieve in the future.
2. Lack of Leadership Skills: Fear of changes, management is either too directive or too hands off.
3. Discouraging Cluture – The cluture does not inspire people, no shared values, lack of trust, people lose confidence in their leaders and systems.
4. High Bureaucracy: An organizational structure with too many layers.
5. Lack of Initiative: Poor motivation and encouragement. People do not feel their their contributions make a difference.
6. Poor Vertical Communication: People have no clue what the big picture is, and there is too much uncertainity. People don’t know what top-managers are thnking and planning.
7. Poor Cross-functional Collaboration: Lack of cross-functional goals and cross-functional collaboration spirit.
8. Poor Teamwork: No organizational commitment to team culture, a lack of shared and worthwhile goals.
9. Poor Idea and Knowledge Management: Cross-pollination of ideas is not facilitated.
The list was a part of one produced by 1000 Ventures. Why Organizations Fail. Think about it a bit, does this describe any organizations you are a part of? They are all around us.
Early in my preaching, it was my belief that my successes should be shared with everyone. Even now, I sometimes catch myself trying to impress someone with my pride in what I’m able to do.
Wow, what a foolish thing! The last thing I need is to justify my work by showing others how well I think I’m doing it!
Have you ever thought that one of the things God’s word does better than anything is its ability to hold up our motives and put them on public display. All the Lord has to do is say, “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves ; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others,” (Philippians 2:3-4 NASB).
OUCH!
Paul defines selfishness and empty conceit as the way I’m conducting myself when I try to show others what a great preacher I am. Not only has he defined my shortcoming, but he has shown how he wants me to improve. It isn’t necessary for people to get the headlines of my success. It is more important for me “to regard another as more important.”
Shouldn’t it be enough for me to glorify God, who already knows about my successes and failures? He’s the one for whom these labors are made. We are obeying his commands.
Besides, my reason for doing this job is not so I can become the one everybody wants to turn to and glorify. The reason is so that people will hear the gospel so that the power of God will save them. If I preach the truth, then I’ve done what God wants (Matthew 28:18-20; 1 Corinthians 1:17, 18).
Thank you, Lord God, for your word that cuts through our pretense and lays our motives bare before your eyes.
Perhaps there are some, John, who can’t relate with your words. I am one of them who can. Fortunately I learned the humbling lesson about 20 years ago. I have never forgotten it.
Here’s a Nudge for you, peeps. From today’s reading in Php 2, the NLT renders a thought in verse 3 this way, “don’t try to impress others.” I’m not here to discuss the accuracy of that rending, but it leads me to the nudging question.
Share an embarrassing moment when you witnessed someone (yourself, even?) trying to impress others. No names, please.
Or, if you prefer, when someone could have taken advantage of a moment to impress others, but showed the humility to which verse 3 urges us.
Just a thought, also: Is there an instance in Scripture of someone trying to impress others?
Fellows, please reply in separate posts. Visitors, feel free to reply in the comment area.
Oh, man. You REALLY don’t want me to get started on this!
It seems as if the Amalekite in 2nd Samuel ch 1 was trying to impress David with his story of “killing Saul.” It didn’t work out too well for him.
John, that was a great post. Responses on FB to it back me up on that.
Eugene, great connection there, with the case of the Amalekite.
How many times have you ever said, “If I knew then, what I know now, I’d certainly do things differently?”
Job is saying this in the last chapter of his book. Surely, Job regrets many of the things he said about God and is ready to repent and do those works “meet for repentance,” (Acts 26:20).
Some of the things Job learned from his trial included:
One of the significant things I learned in this study of Job was something Don Shackleford wrote in his “Truth for Today” commentary. He said Job’s office as intercessor brackets the book. God made mention of it in Job 1:5 and it is in this final chapter as Job was instructed to make sacrifices for his three friends.
We have an intercessor, Christ the righteous, “who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works,” (Titus 2:14).
Have we taken the time today to thank God for our Lord and Savior Jesus, who gave himself for us? If not, then why not take time right now?
An Old Cowboy observation today that has been on my mind for a bit. It likely has its roots in my Oklahoma oil field brat background, or simply the cowboy in me. Recently from several folks I have heard a constant stream of; we’ll if thus and so happens, just maybe if, I think if, well maybe if I am right…if. Now friends when you you plan on inspiring anyone you have got to develop a little confidence and hope in yourself. In life if you aren’t failing every now and then, you must not be doing anything, You must be wasting all your time thinking about getting to work. If you do fail, just pick your hat up and put it on your head, brush the dust off your jeans, cowboy up and crawl back on that bronk, and try agin.
Some good advice, Roy!
How would you illustrate, say, for a magazine cover, the theme of the Christian name? I went with this idea for our Brazilian mag, delivered today to the printer.
• Sometimes I dream of a Forthright print magazine, with news articles pulled from BNc, devotionals, and articles from our online zine. Then on days like today, after wrapping up the Brazilian mag, I give thanks we don’t have one in English.
• Several challenges lately on some of our websites. I don’t consider it down-time, just part of the process to keep everything working smoothly. But Murphy’s Law guarantees that it all happens at once.
• Say a prayer for the family of the nephew of our neighbors, who happen to be also The Maiden’s (former) music school teacher. The young man was killed by a gunshot to the head, in front of his house, apparently, by robbers. He was 26, engaged to be married.
• In years past, and some this year, I’ve traveled across the country to speak. A lot. My dream is to say no to all travel, stay in my little region of the country (with some 3 million people) to write, publish, and evangelize around here. Can I start today, with future invitations? Can I?
• Last Sunday, a young dating couple showed up at church. They’re from the greater São Paulo area, were up in the mountains on vacation with the girl’s mother, who’s not a Christian. The two of them, in their early 20s, made the hour trip to come to church. They’ve been Christians for three or four years. What an example!
• Since the church’s mission is to teach the gospel to the whole world, which scenario should we be seeing: churches lined up to find missionaries to support, or missionaries scrambling and crisscrossing the country trying to find support? You know which one we see. What does that say about us?
Randal, regarding your last comment and question about the church lining up to find missionaries to support. That will more than likely never happen because (1) many members are not willing to “deny self” (Matthew 16:24) and (2) creature comforts (nice church building, etc.) are more important.than sending monies to someone members may or may not know in a foreign land.
We sing, “This World Is Not My Home” but we act like it is………
Too true, Mike. Too true.
The Old Cowboy recently has been amazed at the number of words that have been uttered and written, about what is wrong with the church, the nation, the world in general, our kids and the other guy. The more I read and hear I am reminded of the words of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin native Doug Larson; “The reason people blame things on the previous generation is that there’s ony one other choice.”
Unfortunately, the blame game has seemingly been the game of choice since Adam and Eve.
It has been a busy week, so here is a medley of 3 illustrations on humility that I plan to use this Sunday in my sermon. Oh, how our world needs more humble, selfless servants of God! May He help each of us so to be!
Winston Churchill was once asked, “Doesn’t it thrill you to know that every time you make a speech, the hall is packed to overflowing?” “It’s quite flattering,” replied Sir Winston. “But, whenever I feel that way, I always remember that if, instead of making a political speech, I was being hanged, the crowd would be twice as big.”
Norman McGowan, My Years With Winston Churchill, Souvenir Press, London.
Lincoln once got caught up in a situation where he wanted to please a politician, so he issued a command to transfer certain regiments. When the secretary of war, Edwin Stanton, received the order, he refused to carry it out. He said that the President was a fool. Lincoln was told what Stanton had said, and he replied, “If Stanton said I’m a fool, then I must be, for he is nearly always right. I’ll see for myself.” As the two men talked, the President quickly realized that his decision was a serious mistake and, without hesitation, he withdrew it.
Source Unknown
A truly humble man is hard to find, yet God delights to honor such selfless people. Booker T. Washington, the renowned black educator, was an outstanding example of this truth. Shortly after he took over the presidency of Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, he was walking in an exclusive section of town when he was stopped by a wealthy white woman. Not knowing the famous Mr. Washington by sight, she asked if he would like to earn a few dollars by chopping wood for her. Because he had no pressing business at the moment, Professor Washington smiled, rolled up his sleeves, and proceeded to do the humble chore she had requested. When he was finished, he carried the logs into the house and stacked them by the fireplace. A little girl recognized him and later revealed his identity to the lady.
The next morning the embarrassed woman went to see Mr. Washington in his office at the Institute and apologized profusely. “It’s perfectly all right, Madam,” he replied. “Occasionally I enjoy a little manual labor. Besides, it’s always a delight to do something for a friend.” She shook his hand warmly and assured him that his meek and gracious attitude had endeared him and his work to her heart. Not long afterward, she showed her admiration by persuading some wealthy acquaintances to join her in donating thousands of dollars to the Tuskegee Institute.
Our Daily Bread
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up (James 4:10)
…be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time (1 Peter 5:5-6)
According to historian Richard Hughes (see bibliography), grace is understood by the CC as something that God is obligated to give the believer who is obedient—though they would not phrase it this way. They would more likely say that God’s grace provides a “way” to salvation, but it’s up to us to save ourselves. They do not see grace as the regeneration of our dead spirits, as a work of God apart from anything we do or can do. They may also believe that grace is what God bestows to one who has done everything he can to be obedient. Again, while they may not state it in exactly these terms, we think that it is a necessary inference from their theology; thus grace is the small remaining step that remains toward salvation after one is correctly obedient. God fills the gap with his grace. (Interestingly, this is the same view of grace held by Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses.)
RT – What Richard Hughes said, if the sentiment attributed to him is accurate, is flat false. God is under obligation to no one. If God said He will do something and someone complied with that something (as God required it), then we might ask the author of this treatise whether or not God will fulfill His promise? Has God obligated Himself to do that something? No man saves himself; to so ascribe is a lie. What is “grace”? Perhaps our author ought to read Titus 2:11-14 in order to see what “grace” does. Is it true that “grace” is the actual “regeneration of our dead spirits”? It is not so defined by an English dictionary, and neither is it defined in a Bible dictionary this way. What shall we say of the author of this treatise who defined it this way? At best, I would suggest there is a tremendous mistake in what the author understands with regard to what he reads. At worst, this is a false view and, not far removed from a lie.
The role of Christ, and thus the atonement, was merely for the purpose of displaying God’s love for man and giving him a law to obey that would bring life. Christ is said to save by furnishing man an example. He simply showed man how to save himself. Their theology is either semi-Pelagian (salvation by works plus God’s grace) or full-Pelagian (God’s grace and the righteousness of Christ may be nice to have, but are not necessary for salvation because one can save himself by obedience).
RT – The false ascriptions and characterizations is blatant in these words.
The Holy Spirit is not well defined and is limited in his activities. The Holy Spirit is often said to be either not active today, or the Holy Spirit’s activities may be limited to the words of the New Testament, or that the Spirit’s activities are limited to helping us understand the Bible. In any case, they see the Holy Spirit’s activities in a much more confined role than other Christians. So the Holy Spirit becomes, in a sense, the same as the Bible. There is little or no place for the Holy Spirit in regeneration or sanctification. Some even reject the notion that the Holy Spirit indwells a person.
They deny (vehemently) the historic Christian doctrine of Original Sin. Thus man sins, not because of any corruption in his nature, but because of his lack of understanding or simple stubbornness. This is a view they share with non-Christian groups: Muslims, communists, eastern religions, Mormons, and Jehovah’s Witnesses.
RT – It is rather unfortunate that some brethren respond to others the way they do with regard to the topic of the Holy Spirit. Thus, there may be some warrant in the criticisms relative to the Holy Spirit; some brothers disagree amongst themselves, and see how quick lines can be drawn. Fortunately, those who are so quick to divide are getting smaller and smaller in number; they are seen as radicals.
It is true that the man-made doctrine of original sin as taught by many is flat false and can be demonstrated. It may be “historic”, but it is not biblical. If man’s nature is corrupt (contaminated with sin) – even at birth, then Jesus who was is all points like a man was also corrupted at birth. If this is not the case, why is it not the case?
Associations, if there are similar ways of thinking on the same topic, does not make the particular view false. The last statement has one purpose – guilt by similarity.
They refuse to fellowship with other Christians, even other conservative Christians.
RT – Fellowship is in accordance with the Lord’s teachings. 1 John 1:1-3; 4:1, 6; 1 Peter 4:11, etc.
Question for the Church of Christ: Have we summarized your views correctly?
RT – THE ANSWER IS NO. THE CHURCH OF CHRIST, HOWEVER, IS AUTONOMOUS. ONE BODY DOES NOT ANSWER FOR ANOTHER. TO ASK WHETHER OR NOT YOU SUMMARIZED “YOUR VIEWS” CORRECTLY IS FLAWED IN THE VERY QUESTION.
“It is true that the man-made doctrine of original sin as taught by many is flat false and can be demonstrated. It may be “historic”, but it is not biblical.”
I believe you hit upon the nail that so many do not see in many of the areas that divide us. Some try to place “historically practiced/believed” on the same level as “scripturally supported.”
I appreciate your remark, Eugene.
Ron, What do you know about the author(s) of this article? I’ve been at their website but unable to understand their background or purpose.
I actually do not know anything about them at all, Steve. I, too, tried to ascertain, but all I am able to tell is that they (presumably) are evangelical in thought. Apart from that, I do not know.
The Old cowboy over the last couple of days has been reading a couple of books written by Dr. Marshal Goldsmith. One statement he makes is a good one to repeat here; “After living with their dysfunctional behavior for so many years, people become invested in defending their dysfunctions rather than changing them.” Take a little time to sit back and consider your own behavior this week.
“Harry’s Law” is a TV weekly series on NBC. Last week Harry (Harriet Corn, attorney) defended a person who had taken in an escaped Giant Gorilla. The zoo claimed ownership and Harry’s client sought to retain control so she could send it to some wildlife preserve. The line of argument Harry pursued was what provokes my writing: she argued for the “personhood” of the Giant Ape! The ape has intelligence (in face it is smarter than some people who suffer from some handicap), emotions, etc. and to deny it “personhood” is to practice discriminatory “specie-ism”. In this episode Harry lost the case but it was presented so as to encourage sympathy towards her case and the ape’s plight in returning to the zoo. Here is how Satan works! Slowly, subtly and with sinister effect Satan inundates us with worldly wisdom. In this case it is based on the theory of evolution: if apes are our cousins, why deny them personhood? Worldly wisdom may sound reasonable, but it omits revealed truth from God: we are not animals but divinely unique and created in God’s image. Besides this, think of the consequences. We would have to add all the apes to welfare, unemployment, medicare; on and on!
Ed,
Well done! Incremental disbelief is what has produced the abundance of sin in our day. Here’s a chart of how this happened: http://doverchurchofchrist.info/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Chart-Fruit-of-a-Godless-People.pdf
Note: Though Hugh has his own blog now, we share this email from him to ask you how you might have answered the lady’s question.
It happened again just recently. My wife and I were inter-facing with a woman regarding a business matter. Early in our conversation the lady asked what kind of work I did. I suppose I should have felt flattered since I would think that most folks would assume that I am retired. I responded, "I am a semi-retired minister." She immediately asked, "What denomination?" Given the setting we were in at the moment the best answer I could give was: "I am a member of the church of Christ."
It always bothers me to know that such an answer is extremely inadequate. While she heard my words she really did not understand what I said. When I said, "I am a member of the church of Christ," I had in mind the spiritual body of Christ. But she heard me saying that I am a member of a denomination called the Church of Christ. She said, "My grandfather was a member of the Church of Christ." (Here I wrote "church" as she intended it, with an upper case "C," as the proper name of a denomination; not as I intended it, with a lower case "c," simply a descriptive of the spiritual body of Christ. To the person who has studied the matter thoughtfully, there is a huge difference.)
I deeply regret that—given our religious climate today—it is virtually impossible to communicate to people a religious position that is undenominational. Not only do people not comprehend one’s words, most of them will not sit still long enough to hear—really hear—a simple, biblical explanation for one’s position as an undenominational Christian. It is assumed by nearly everyone that if a person is a Christian, he/she must also be a member of some denomination. It is virtually impossible to get people to think in terms of undenominational Christianity.
The New Testament reveals that "the disciples were first called Christians at Antioch" (Acts 11:26). What kind of Christians? No kind! Just Christians! Can one be just a Christian today? If not, why not? In Romans 16:16, the apostle Paul said, "The churches of Christ greet you." Were those churches of Christ a denomination? It is admitted by all that they were not. Can we have undenominational churches of Christ today? If not, why not?
Jesus said, "The seed is the word of God" (Luke 8:11). In New Testament times, the word of God produced undenominational Christians and undenominational churches. Seed always reproduce after their kind. A peach tree always produces peaches—never pears, plums, or pomegranates. If the word of God—unmixed with the religious doctrines and traditions that have arisen this side of the New Testament—is "planted" today in the hearts of people, it will produce today exactly what it produced at the beginning of Christianity—undenominational Christians and undenominational churches of Christ.
It is to being simply a Christian and a member of the New Testament church that I am committed. After all, if I am going to be religious, why should I not be just a Christian as were people in New Testament times? If I am going to be a member of a church, why should I not be just a member of the undenominational church of which I can read in the New Testament?
When I tell you that I am a member of the church of Christ, please try to hear what I am saying—and what I am not saying. After all, some effort is required of a hearer and/or reader to understand what a speaker and/or writer is saying. (Incidentally, what kind of preacher am I? Just a preacher of the simple, beautiful, and life-changing gospel of Christ.)
hugh’s news & Views
Hugh Fulford
January 24, 2012
Rick writes: Mom’s kidney transplant has been postponed. My sister’s liver enzymes were elevated today. They did an ultrasound on her today, will run more tests on her tomorrow; they are optimistic that they can re-schedule the procedure for Thursday. Thanks for praying. We’ll keep you posted.
Please take time to check out the e-mail newsletter I send out each Monday– please pray for the outreach and thanks to any of you who have subscribed– hope more will do so.
Renewing Your Mind Spiritually - http://eepurl.com/iD4L1
Please add me to your weekly list. I enjoy your monthly bulletin and the Fellowship Room items.
I have always been intrigued by the Lord’s rebuke of the disciples because of their lack of perception with regard to something they should have; they failed to understand an important lesson. In the first four verses the Lord rebukes the religious leaders because they could interpret the physical realm, but failed in their efforts toward the spiritual realm. This failing, it will be noted, was not something the Lord accepted. Thus, when they disciples interpreted their immediate physical surrounding like they did, they also failed to understand the spiritual. How guilty are we?
****
The gates of hell (hades) shall not prevail against it! The Lord’s church will be victorious no matter what it is that Satan throws against it. As you look at Revelation 12 and 13 you will note that the full force of evil will come crashing into it and try to get through the “doors of the church.” The doors, however, are so strong that the only force strong enough to open them up will be the Lord Himself (cf. Revelation 3:20). While the local body might have its “candlestick” removed if there is a consistent failing to live by the light of God’s life, we can be sure that those in Christ (2 Timothy 2:19) will receive that for which they long. Are you faithful to Christ? Then by necessity you are faithful to His body, which is the church. Have you tried to make a distinction in your mind between Christ and the church? The Lord did not.
In the spirit of the season, here’s a fresh poem from my oldest teen daughter, Lacey, on getting a cold: http://ivorykeys94.wordpress.com/2012/01/21/a-cold-got-a-hold-of-me/
Very well done.
An Old Cowboy observation this morning. It was Tom Flores who wrote; “a total commitment is paramont to reaching the ultimate in performance.” I recon what he was really trying to say is that if you are going to get the job done you’ve got to get off the tailgate and get your hands dirty. Have a good week y’all.
In the first epistle of John we are exhorted to do many things. We are to love our brother, we are to have no fear, we are to walk in the light of God’s word, we are exhorted to beware of false teachers; and these are just some things we are to do. One other thing that deserves mention is that we are encouraged to have assurance. Those who walk in the light have the assurance that God will save that person who so walks. Believing God is trusting and relying on Him who saved us. We can’t know we are saved unless we take note of what He said, and live our life in accordance with what He said (Romans 10:17; 2 Corinthians 5:7). When we do this all fear is removed (I John 4:18). If we have a bit of uncertainty, we might ask ourselves why.
The OIld Cowboy has been thinking a bit, this morning. As I sit here looking out at this Sunday moring, it is easy to see that I am not alone. I am however lonely when you and the kids aren’t close by. I’ll save a seat next to me in the pew for y’all. Bring your Bibles we’ll study from God’s Word together.
There are a number of ways to approach the question, obviously. But how do you (I don’t ask “would,” since you have probably answered it by now) answer when someone asks, “What do I do to become a part of the church?”
I’m thinking of writing on this for next Sunday, so I’d like to get some perspective. Not that I don’t have one or haven’t answered it before. But it’s no trick question. Always looking to learn more from experienced saints.
Fellows, feel free to make a separate post. Tag it as “church membership,” I guess.
I will generally reword their question to this: “What do I need to do to become a member of the body of Christ?” From there I continue on with the relevant Biblical passages. I sometimes answer this way: “To become a member of the Lord’s body one needs to become a Christian.” And then, finally, I have answered it this way also: “What do you mean by ‘church’?” These replies come according to the context of the conversation.
My answer: Ask the Lord, listen to his answer and let him take care of it (Acts 2:47).
The replies from Ron & Eugene are very good.
It has been my observation that some are prone, in my opinion, to require MORE of a potential convert than the Lord Himself does (at that point in their walk). Let me clarify: If those on Pentecost could learn enough in 1 sermon and if the eunuch & jailor could learn enough in 1 Bible study to obey the gospel & be added to the family of God, then let us be careful not to require more knowledge than those did who were guided by the Holy Spirit into all the truth. After one becomes a disciple, then there is much more learning to take place (Matt. 28:19,20). If one is willing to commit Himself to Christ and to living by His word, he is ready to be immersed for the remission of His sins. God will add such a one to His church–even if there may be some misunderstandings to be dealt with on some of the finer matters of NT doctrine.
The Old Cowboy has been pondering a lesson from Science 101. As we stumble through life most of us learn that a lot of things, items, people, body parts and organizations shrink when they get cold enough. Think about that a moment or two, don’t just run past it.
From Rick Kelley: I ask you all to say a special prayer for my mother and sister. On Tuesday, my sister Tammy will be donating a kidney to my mother. They will be having surgery @ Tulane University hospital in New Orleans. Thank you very much.
Bro. Rick, Will keep your mother and your sister in our prayers. May the kidney transplant be successful.
Mike
Rick, know that you are all in my prayers. God bless you, my brother.
doug Post are discussing. 
stevelucas, and 
Royce Pendergrass is discussing. 
Bob Tackett, and 
Stephen R. Bradd 11:08 am on January 27, 2012 Permalink |
I, too, agree that Ron’s answer is correct. However, for the sake of discussion, is it not the case that there are small congregations (perhaps many) that are “shepherded” by one man primarily (often the preacher but not always)? It is true that we do not call the leader an “elder” in that case, though he may very well be functioning as one (merely without the formal “title”).
We had 3 elders in Clinton 20+ years ago. 2 died within 6 months. The 3rd man formally resigned and the eldership dissolved. However, for the next 12 years or so, this man still behaved as a shepherd in most ways until he passed away. He let go of the title but still, in a practical sense, was a shepherd. I think such is good and proper.
The work of a shepherd is necessary in every congregation–and it needs to get done. This is true no matter how many or how few men there are that could formally qualify to serve as “elders.”
John Henson 12:14 pm on January 27, 2012 Permalink |
I love ya, Stephen, but I disagree. As Ron said, a plurality of elders is biblical. They call a single leader a “Pope.” Do we wish to do what the Bible says, or do we allow for the situation to dictate what we’ll do?
Stephen R. Bradd 2:15 pm on January 27, 2012 Permalink |
Hi John. I don’t think I advocated anything above that is outside the parameters of NT authority. Perhaps I have been unclear.
There is no doubt that a plurality of elders is biblical. But, what about when there isn’t an eldership in place (which is sadly the case in many congregations)? What then? Should no one do any “shepherding” because no one has been formally appointed to the office? I would answer that question in the negative. Does Gal. 6:1 only apply where there are elders? Of course not.
What is “shepherding”? It is many things, but it includes feeding, protecting, & caring for the flock. These are things that I do currently, and I have not been appointed to the office of bishop. Should I not feed the flock since I am not an elder? Should I not go after the brother who is drifting since I am not an elder? Should I not provide some spiritual leadership since there are no elders here currently? I believe I should (because of what the Bible says)–and I do so (without being a “Pope”).
You stated that “they call a single leader a ‘Pope.’” My question to you is: Was Titus a “Pope” since he behaved as a leader and did some spiritual shepherding in a congregation where there were no elders yet appointed? If you say “no,” then you must acknowledge that someone today could follow Titus’ example and not be a “Pope”–which is precisely what I am arguing for.
John Henson 3:16 pm on January 27, 2012 Permalink
TItus was acting under the authority of Paul, an apostle, one who was sent with authority, brother. I’ve helped established congregations and worked with them in all circumstances and I realize there are times as you described, but I do not support the idea of one person in charge. I have never found authority for that. Have you?
Ron Thomas 3:22 pm on January 27, 2012 Permalink
In my view, if there are no elders because men are not qualified, then spiritual leadership will reside in the men who are spiritually in tune with the Lord’s will. That said, I think there is a “default” position of leadership in the congregation, and that will be the preacher. This may not be ideal, but it may be necessary until men are trained to serve in the capacity of elders. Simply because the preacher is a leader in this capacity does not mean that bad things happen. I am not of the opinion that just because men are present in the local coingregation they are spiritually interested in the well-being of the local church. They could be, but this will be demonstrated by their actions. If so, then there will be a collection of men, but if not, where will spiritual leadership reside?
Stephen R. Bradd 5:20 pm on January 27, 2012 Permalink
Hi John. I am not in favor of one person being “in charge,” and it has not been my intent to argue for such. I am in favor of the flock being fed, tended to, and cared for–even if there are no appointed elders to do such. If that means a preacher and/or any other spiritually-minded men take the initiative to do so, they I believe such is good. Serving the church in that capacity doesn’t make one “in charge,” though some will look to such a one for leadership.