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  • Richard Mansel 9:16 am on April 27, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Tidbits and Prayer Requests 

    Hello! I hope all of our readers are doing well. I wanted to share a potpourri of thoughts with you this Friday morning. We appreciate you very much.

    • It is a beautiful sunny day in Southeast Georgia. We ask your prayers that we can get some rain. Our drought is nothing like the Southwest has suffered, but we are double digits below normal for three years. It is sad to see so many ponds dry. Also, continue to pray for rain in the Southwest, they desperately need it.
    • I also ask your prayers for me as I continue battling a neurological condition. The pain has been especially bad, lately. I see a new neurologist in two weeks.
    • I read that the Baptists in Kentucky are having a symposium on Calvinism. They say that only one of the speakers is a Five-Point Calvinist. I wish they would figure out that the Baptist doctrine of salvation is Calvinist-Lite and return to the truth of Scripture on how to be saved.

    BTW, here is a shameless plug for my book on how to be saved.

    • On a lighter note, the 17 year-old son of one of my cousins didn’t know who John Wayne was. Moments like these seriously make you feel old. Likewise, I recently realized that in 2014 it will have been 20 years since I finished graduate school at Freed-Hardeman University. Time flies much too quickly.
    • I am listening to the Bible on digital audio. As I write, I am listening to Acts 11.
    • I am privileged to develop a manuscript on John 21 for the Southeast Georgia Lectureship at Richmond Hill. The lectureship is October 27-28. The last chapter of John is a fascinating study and I look forward to taking it apart and finding the treasures there.

    This Sunday morning I will be speaking on James 3:1, “My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment.”

    Of this passage, Burton Coffman writes:

    “James did not seek to discourage any who might have been qualified for such work. As Harper suggested, ‘His words were meant to remind us of our responsibilities, rather than to deter us from our duties.’”

    We must not allow this passage to be a path of rationalization to avoid evangelism. We must all become more knowledgeable about Scripture. What thoughts do you have on this verse?

    For your reading:

     

    • J. Randal Matheny 12:57 pm on April 30, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      Enjoyed this. Good quote there, too. Is the lectureship on the book of John? Will there be a book to come out of it?

      • Richard Mansel 1:03 pm on April 30, 2012 Permalink | Reply

        Thank you. The congregation does put together a book of all the manuscripts. This year it will be on the last few chapters of John, looking at the last few days of Christ’s life. I think this will be the 8th or 9th year I’ve spoken there. Looking forward to it.

  • Richard Mansel 7:49 am on March 13, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    Where Does Evil Come From? 

    In my article today I examine the darkness of evil as illustrated by the Nazis. I hope you will read it and share it with others. The tagline for my Facebook post is, “Evil enters our hearts when we leave the door open.”

    We see the evil in our world and we have to wonder where all of it comes from. No one is born evil (Ezekiel 18), so it comes from somewhere.

    I like the line from the Woody Allen film, “Hannah and her Sisters.” Max von Sydow plays a professor who was discussing a show where historians wondered why the Holocaust happened.

    Sydow’s character said, “The reason they can’t find the answer is because they are asking the wrong question. The question is not how did it happen but why doesn’t it happen more often?”

    We focus on the Jewish Holocaust as if it is the only one in history. However, genocide has existed since time began in one form of another. Ask the Serbs.

    Evil has an origin and it enters the hearts of men if we allow it. Read the chilling illustration I use today and you won’t likely forget it any time soon.

     

    • ELYSEE ALEXANDER 6:26 am on March 14, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      Dear people of God,
      i m verry sad to say you the haitian church of christ in dominican republic will be close, next week
      because we can not pay the rent bulding worship,so we dept 15 mil pesos or 400 dollares ,i m very tired to beg any friendly hands support for this ministry. in this contry there are 1.8 thousand immigrant haitian so i have 3 years i still payed his bill but to day i have one years ago alose my job. i can not continuo to pay that. please help me to save his peoplein the darckness of vodoo. i still preach against the vodoo culture.
      your minster ELYSEE ALEXANDER,
      CHURCH OF CHRIST IN DOMINICAN REPUBLIC.
      OF HAITI.809 442 71 09

  • Richard Mansel 9:16 am on January 3, 2012 Permalink | Reply
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    The Limited, Unlimited 

    Christmas is over and the wrapping paper is discarded. The toys are being ignored and Christmas cards are in garbage bags.

    The things of this world fade with time. Man’s idols and empires are dead and false messiahs are in their graves. Money is shredded and material wealth is languishing in landfills. Everything in this world will expire because the fleshly is temporal (2 Peter 3:7-11).

    If we desire a gift that will be timeless, we must turn to the spiritual for answers. It is the only thing that lasts (Matthew 25:31-34, Matthew 25:46).

    Read More

    So, why is Jesus the limited, unlimited? What does He provide for us?

     

  • Richard Mansel 9:14 am on August 31, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: apostsy, forthright, , impossibility of apostasy, , , ,   

    Once Saved, Always Saved? 

    Once we become a Christian, immersed in the waters of baptism (Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3-4), cleansed in the blood of Christ (1 John 1:7), and sanctified from the world by the grace of God (Ephesians 2:8-9), can we ever be lost?

    We know that if we walk in Christ, bringing glory to God, as we find in Scripture, we will remain in the arms of God (Ephesian 2:19; 3:20-21; 4:1).

    There are those who teach that a true Christian can never be lost. I agree (Romans 8:1).

    However, the question remains as to whether we can leave the Lord by exercising our freewill? Scripture says that we can (Hebrews 6:4-6; 10:26-31).

    The following articles examine this very important question:

    No Condemnation in Christ

    Once Saved, Always Saved 1

    Once Saved, Always Saved 2

    Once Saved, Always Saved 3

    I hope you will diligently study these passages and pray about them.

     

     

  • Richard Mansel 8:59 am on August 30, 2011 Permalink | Reply
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    Can We Be Saved by Works? 

    My article today at Forthright is the second in a series of articles on the Catholic doctrine of Purgatory. They base their doctrine on works salvation, which is completely foreign to the Gospel.

    If we can be saved because of works, we are ostensibly saying that we can live perfectly enough that God would be forced to save us or be shamed before the world. That is laughable but is exactly the idea behind Catholic salvation.

    I hope you will read Purgatory 2 and give your thoughts on their false claims.

     

    • Doug Post 10:38 am on August 31, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Works are as necessary as faith – if you believe in Him, then you must also obey and do the works He has commanded. Of course, we also know that faith is a work, and yet without faith it is impossible to please God (Heb.11:6). Doing what our Lord has asked never obligates Him to us but not doing works separates us from Him. Therefore, what kind of works are should we consider doing? Not works of the law (of Moses), not works of boasting, not works of my own devising, not works of the flesh, etc. However, the works we are to do are the works associated with faith, and those works are simply obeying the positive and negative commands of the Lord.
      Another thought: when it comes to sin, no one has to sin. There is not a soul who will stand before God and tell Him that on certain occasions he or she just had to sin. That won’t fly, especially since our Lord provides everyone with an escape for every temptation that comes down the pike (1 Cor.10:13). Paul says it like this, “Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound?” Yes, Christ died for sin, but that does not mean we must, therefore, sin. Those who say we must sin due to our humanity are forgetting Christ. Jesus was totally human like we and He did not sin. Yes, He was totally God too, but Satan tempted Christ’s human side. What good would it have done to tempt His God side? God cannot be tempted, but man can. God cannot sin, but man can. God is not vulnerable, man is. Therefore, Satan tempted the vulnerable side of Christ – His human side. This illustrates the point that since Christ did not sin, then it’s possible for us not to sin. This also clearly demonstrates the fact that we do not need direct help from the Holy Spirit, or any other member of the Godhead, to keep from sinning. Jesus didn’t receive any help in not sinning and neither do we.

  • Richard Mansel 10:36 am on August 23, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: forthright, grace faith, ,   

    Strange Doctrine of Purgatory 

    Today at Forthright, I began a series of articles on the complex and confusing Catholic doctrine of Purgatory. After doing a study of the subject and delivering two sermons on the subject, I still find it convoluted.

    What it actually says about Christ and his sacrifice on the cross is offensive.  Your input on the article will be appreciated.

    I list several quotes today that help the reader get an idea of what the doctrine claims. One of the quotes, which will be covered more in the second installment just astounds me. It stands completely opposed to all of the study I did for my book on salvation.

    Ponder this amazing quote from those who teach purgatory:

    “The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “All who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven.”

    What thoughts do you have on this admission? My thoughts will come next week but I look forward to reading yours, in the meantime.

     

     

     

     

    • Mike Riley 12:05 pm on August 23, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Richard, my question is, “How can folks die in God’s grace and friendship, but still be imperfectly purified?”

      The New Testament teaches that believers are purified when we “obey the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren” (1 Peter 1:22; cf. 1 Timothy 1:4-5). Since we’ve been provided “all things that pertain to life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3), what need would there be to have to “undergo purification, so as to achieve holiness?”

      • Mike Riley 12:07 pm on August 23, 2011 Permalink | Reply

        Their doctrine on Purgatory must have originated from the twisted mind of some man, certainly not in the mind of God.

      • Richard Mansel 12:07 pm on August 23, 2011 Permalink | Reply

        Yeah, that is a shocking twisting of Scripture. Works-oriented Christianity is always bizarre.

  • Richard Mansel 3:38 pm on August 20, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: fellowship room, forthright, , ,   

    Keeping Our Readers in Mind 

    As a writer and editor, I always need to have my audience in mind when I write, design, select photos and create titles. What can best serve the reader while maintaining the integrity of the message?

    That is always a challenge. If there is something about our product that turns readers/viewers away, we must eradicate it immediately and arrive at a better design.

    With that in mind, I wonder how many people have stopped reading the “Spiritual Sword” because they can no longer see the microscopic print. I admit I have a hard time seeing it and it requires a lot of work to make it through such a large issue.  I expect the font is so small to keep printing costs low. But, that must be weighed against losing readers. I guess I can stop reading it or get a magnifier.

    Randal and I always want your input about Forthright — what you like and do not like. Your input is like gold to us. We maintain the site but it exists for you. Therefore, you always need to be in the equation.

    As always thank you for your patronage of Forthright and at the Fellowship Room.

     

    • Sandra Moore 3:46 pm on August 20, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Have you talked to the editors about the print being too fine? I had not noticed that it was. A few months ago THINK changed the font of their magazine and I let them know right away that it was a problem. I knew it couldn’t be to save space, because they were using a lot of space for graphics. Saundra, in the Focus Press office, told me they would be changing it back, and within the next couple of issues they did. She said it actually wasn’t smaller print, just a different font they had tried.

      Sandra

      • Richard Mansel 3:56 pm on August 20, 2011 Permalink | Reply

        I’ve sent them a message but I’ve not heard back, yet. Thanks for your input.

  • Richard Mansel 9:10 am on July 19, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: forthright, , , , ,   

    Prayer, Pride and Purgatory 

    These three items in the title are on my mind this morning. Let me explain:

    • We all have problems and pains in this world. They are a part of the human condition. As a Christian, we hear that we should give our problems to the  Lord. But what does that mean in a practical sense? How do we accomplish that? Read my discussion and comment, please.
    • I am so proud of the new Forthright Magazine page! It is gorgeous and I pray much good is done in the Lord’s kingdom, as a result. Remember, if you  were a subscriber before, nothing has changed. We hope even more people will subscribe and that our readership will increase. Please pray about this work and frequent the page. And of course, please promote us on your website and add a link, if that would be appropriate.
    • In mid-August, I am to speak on the doctrine of Purgatory for a lectureship. I am reading Dante’s Divine Comedy, where much of the doctrine originates. Your input and information on the false doctrine of Purgatory would be appreciated.  By the way, if you have a major doctrine in your denomination and it isn’t even discussed in the International  Standard Bible Encyclopedia, that is a bad sign. :)
     

  • Richard Mansel 9:40 am on June 28, 2011 Permalink | Reply
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    Fresh Way to Present the Word 

    I am enjoying using Christian fiction to teach the Word of God in a personal, intimate way.  Today’s story is about Jose, whose courage, faith and love led him to his physical limits to reach someone whose soul was in need. If we only had his resolve and persistence in the area of evangelism. I hope you will read, The Road to Valencia and that you will be moved by Jose’s story.

     

  • Richard Mansel 8:47 pm on June 25, 2011 Permalink | Reply
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    Christian Short Fiction 

    My interest in using Christian short fiction to teach Bible lessons is growing. Read my thoughts on the subject and get a listing of my stories so far. I have another one coming on Tuesday.

     

  • Richard Mansel 8:57 am on April 19, 2011 Permalink | Reply
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    More Lessons From the Civil War 

    My article today examines the Civil War and the lessons we can learn from that terrible conflict. We examine the effects of racism, prejudice, hatred and division.

    The sesquicentennial of the Civil War began on April 12th. In the intervening years, have we learned the major lessons from the war? We can quickly say that we have, because we have not had another internal war on our own soil. Yet, our speedy answer may betray us.

    The Civil War was not an isolated event occurring in a vacuum. It happened because of reasons and motivations. If we have the same attitudes today, even without engaging in combat, we have learned nothing.

    As an avid student of the Civil War, I see many more lessons than I described in the article.

    For example, on both sides of the conflict, completely unqualified men were given the responsibility to lead troops when they did not possess one iota of ability to do so. It was a hopeless situation for the troops and countless numbers of men died, as a result. Why were they installed as high officers? They were successful businessmen, so certainly they could lead troops. The folly of such a decision had fatal results.

    The implications for the church are obvious. How many churches have installed men as elders simply because they were successful businessmen? These congregations overlooked the qualifications for a man to be an elder and made a political appointment, instead. The results, sadly, are the same. The army loses its way and people die.

    Another lesson we learn from the Civil War is that without the proper tools, no Army can succeed. In the second half of the War, the Confederate troops were constantly in survival mode. They routinely ran out of supplies as the Union cut off their supply routes. In time, they were without shoes, clothes, food and weapons.

    As God’s people, if we do not utilize the tools/weapons God has given to us, we will run out of supplies, as well. We will be defenseless if we fail to wear our spiritual armor (Ephesians 6:10-17). We need the fruits of the Spirit and the lessons of God’s Word with us all the time. When we leave them behind, we haven’t a chance. Moreover, if the pulpit is bereft of Godly teaching and it is missing from our homes, then we find ourselves without any means to defend ourselves.

    Finally, the Confederates fought with extraordinary courage and did things that they had no right to do with their emaciated bodies, tattered clothes and poor supplies. They fought with everything that they had. If we can separate ourselves from why they were fighting, they are an astonishing example or what courage, strength and resolve can accomplish.

    We need that resolve as Christians because we face an Army that APPEARS to be an overwhelming foe. Naturally, there is a difference because we have the Lord fighting for us (Hebrews 13:5).

    On the other hand, the Union Army suffered defeats in the beginning because they were overconfident and under-prepared. We can find ourselves in the same position if we do not arm ourselves with God’s Word. We must be humble before God, understanding our weaknesses, and committed to righteousness and evangelism. God’s grace and mercy cannot help us, if we try to fight Satan on our own (Ephesians 2:8-9). Allow God to empower you and fight ahead of you every day (Romans 12:1-2).

    What other lessons can we remember?

     

    • nick gill 9:15 am on April 19, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Don’t assume God is on your side because your reading of Scripture seems to support your endeavor. Come to Scripture humbly, and seek to be on God’s side, rather than trying to recruit Him for your endeavors.

    • Dave Dugan 10:26 am on April 19, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Richard what about some of our brethren that are still
      fighting the civil war. I went to a brother’s home and there was a bust of Andrew Jackson on top of the TV. I thought that was interesting and asked him about it; I got an earful of “the south shall rise again” from this brother. Some never learn the lessons of war. Some never learn the lessons of Christianity either.

    • Tim Hester 12:26 pm on April 19, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Dave, I know many Christians who display pictures, plaques, statuettes, etc… of War Between The States themes but they don’t look for the south to rise again. Is one wrong for remembering his heritage and the things his forefathers for which his forefathers died? Although as Richard pointed out many officers who were not leaders plaqued both the north and the south but on the other hand some of the greatest military minds in history were on both sides. I have a small figurine of Stonewall Jackson by my bed because I admire him as a person and a leader of men.

    • Weylan Deaver 3:20 pm on April 19, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      I’ve done a bit of study on the War–even took an undergraduate class on it at FHU. My great-great grandfather, Benjamin Franklin Truesdell, fought for the Union in Company D, 47th Missouri Infantry. But I’m from the South, and my distant cousin, Confederate Lt. Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest, and I share the same great(x)-grandfather in Shadrack Forrest. Relatively speaking, I’d say the Civil War was civil–at least to a degree (Gen. Sherman, excepted)–compared to the way wars are prosecuted today (e.g. with terrorist bombers, I.E.D.s, and the outrageous killing of civilians, women, children). At least back then you had men trying to abide by codes of honor and wage campaigns according to standards of behavior emanating from a society in large part closer to the Scriptures than 21st century America. Many on both sides held to high moral ideals, though I suspect gallantry and chivalry were weighted more heavily on the Southern side. As you pointed out, neither side had a godly attitude toward blacks, and that is inexcusable. But, to me, the Confederate view on states’ rights is increasingly vindicated as we are, today, subjected to an ever encroaching government that runs roughshod over the Constitution. That the North won does not mean they had everything (or even most things) right. I’ve got no problem with either side paying tribute to its heritage with a picture of Stonewall Jackson or Lee or Grant or Lincoln. No problem with statues, parks and schools named in their honor, or Confederate flags flying, etc. I named my youngest son Forrest, after the Southern general. I’m no racist. I’m not re-fighting the Civil War. I take no responsibility or blame for the way blacks were treated by either side back then. Neither am I accepting unconstitutional mandates from today’s Washington. I would not doubt divine providence was involved in the war’s result, to the further outworking of God’s greater plan for the good of the church, though it is interesting to imagine how things might be different today had it gone the other way. I assume slavery would have played out, even had the South won.

  • Richard Mansel 5:53 am on March 29, 2011 Permalink | Reply
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    When Our Community Burned 

    “On March 24, 2011, a controlled burn in Ludowici, Georgia spreads on the wings of high winds. Exceedingly dry conditions and the fuel of Georgia Pines accelerate the conflagration. Fire trucks and emergency services swiftly move into action. Smoke billows into the sky sounding the alarm for miles around.”

    Read More

     

  • Richard Mansel 8:12 am on March 22, 2011 Permalink | Reply
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    Lessons From the Garden of Eden 

    My Forthright article today uses the story of the Garden of Eden (Genesis 1-3) as a backdrop to teach some valuable lessons about  Biblical authority. The failures of Adam and Eve are cautionary tales for us as we move through our own lives.  I hope you will read, Biblical Authority and the Garden of Eden and gain a deeper appreciation for God’s will and our relationship to His divine utterances.

     

  • Richard Mansel 6:25 am on March 15, 2011 Permalink | Reply
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    Scaling the Mountains of Our Lives 

    “In our lives, we travel on smooth ground until we turn a bend and suddenly a mountain looms before us. We step back intimidated, wondering how we will overcome this incredible obstacle. Yet, we can face it bravely or turn and surrender.

    These mountains constitute the formidable challenges we face in our lives. More than annoyances or conflicts, they are the ones that alter our lives and threaten to spin us out of control. They may be marital problems, car accidents, legal, financial, family or health issues. In their specific contexts, all of them can be devastating.”

    Read  More

     

  • Richard Mansel 7:14 am on March 12, 2011 Permalink | Reply
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    Technology Makes the World Smaller 

    Michael Brooks’ article this morning at Forthright coalesced nicely with what was on my mind. Michael wrote about his travels to Asia for mission trips.

    He wrote:

    It is more than 10,000 miles by air from my home in Alabama to South Asia, to where I have traveled this past week. There is twelve hours difference (twelve time zones) between Alabama time and Bangladesh time. In other words they are exactly on opposite sides of the earth.

    Jet lag is a concept with which I am very familiar. After flying for about 26 hours of actual time in the air over an elapsed total time of 36 to 42 hours on average, I am always tired and physically confused. My mind may say “It is morning, let’s get to work.” My body however responds, “I am tired; it is time to sleep.”


    I remember my second trip home from New Zealand. We left Wellington at 3:00 PM on Friday afternoon. We landed in Memphis on Friday night at 9:00 PM. That was such a strange experience! You fly around the world and it is actually only a few hours later because of the international date line.

    Of course, it may have only been six hours later, in one respect, to my body it seemed to be several days. I was exhausted.

    (More …)

     

    • Mike Riley 10:39 am on March 12, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Jet lag does make one very tired. I experienced the same when I was in the US Air Force flying to Okinawa. Upon my return to the states, I slept for three days, only waking long enough to eat something.

  • Richard Mansel 9:57 am on March 8, 2011 Permalink | Reply
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    Understanding Salvation 

    As writers and teachers, we struggle to find word pictures that elucidate the truth for our readers/hearers.  Of course, the most important thing we can teach is salvation and how we can attain it as sinful human beings (Romans 3:23). Today, I offer a fictional account of a young boy lost in the snow that illustrates what God offers us as sinners in need of salvation. I hope you will be edified by the article.

     

    • Mike Riley 2:13 pm on March 8, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Richard, I really did enjoy reading the narrative as well as the spiritual application at the end. May the Lord continue to bless your exceptional writing ability for His glory.

  • Richard Mansel 7:16 am on February 15, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: forthright, ,   

    How Can He Save His Marriage? 

    Raymond visits his old home place and learns a very valuable lesson on marriage, in the process. I hope you will stop by and read his story and see what you can learn about your own marriage.

     

  • Richard Mansel 6:09 am on February 5, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: forthright, , ,   

    The Bible’s Simple Plan for Sex 

    Scripture speaks often and favorably about sex. God loves humanity and provides sexual fulfillment as a rewarding way to bring marriages closer together and to produce offspring. In the proper context, it is a powerful and beautiful thing.

    We will briefly consider the proper role of sex in our lives. God’s plan is simple and wholesome. However, the world ridicules it as being old-fashioned, outdated and repressive. These false charges are proof of how sexually depraved the world has become.

    Read More

     

    • Mike Riley 10:15 am on February 5, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      I like what you state here, Richard: “Remember that God’s plan requires humility and selflessness,which dooms most people.”

      Yes, those two qualities of character definitely dooms most people – they are neither humble or selfless – their only criteria is, “What’s in it for me?”

  • Richard Mansel 6:52 am on February 1, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , forthright, , spiritual lives,   

    The Terrible Problem of Stress 

    Stress attacks all of us and how we deal with it can determine the state of our spiritual lives. It is imperative that we start realizing the effect stress has on our spiritual lives.

    When we give our lives to Christ, we give Him more than our spiritual lives. He wants everything so we need a more holistic approach to our Christian walk.

    Read More

     

  • Richard Mansel 5:52 am on January 11, 2011 Permalink | Reply
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    What Does it Mean to Love Our Enemies? 

    Loving our enemies is one of the most challenging things God has asked of us. What does it mean and not mean? Today, I have an examination of this important command.

     

  • Richard Mansel 8:41 am on January 7, 2011 Permalink | Reply
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    Great Article on Missions by Mike Benson 

    Mike Benson give us some very challenging thoughts in relation to the greatest need of the starving in Tanzania. I hope you will read and share this article.

     

  • Richard Mansel 7:10 am on December 7, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: forthright, ,   

    Planning For the Future 

    How can we plan for the future when Scripture tells us that we cannot be certain there will even be a tomorrow? Find out the answer.

    Also, this  week marks 300 consecutive weeks my columns have run at Forthright. This includes the unknown neurological problem I currently battle, two surgeries, burned hands and a trip to the  Mayo Clinic. I am humbled and proud by how God has blessed me. Thanks to Forthright for all they have done for me. God bless them all.

     

     

     

    • Mike Riley 3:31 pm on December 7, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Richard, according to my calculations, that’s almost 5.8 years in sharing your Forthright columns. A great testimony to your commitment and consistency!

      May God grant you many more years in writing articles that are faithful to the Book!

    • Don Ruhl 9:32 am on December 8, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Good job, Brother!

  • Richard Mansel 10:31 am on October 26, 2010 Permalink | Reply
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    A Godly Woman 

    I hope you will read my tribute to the life of my mother, Carolyn Mansel. She was a godly example for all of us.  I point out three lessons from her life that will edify all of our lives.

     

    • stevelucas 11:11 am on October 26, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Richard, You are most fortunate to have had such a Christ-like mother! I really appreciate your perspective of being joyous! Though we all do grieve, as humans, over the loss of our loved ones, it is for eternity that we must focus. This is merely a journey, and for others like you, it includes being surrounded by a parent that desired a heavenly home. Steve

    • Tina Cutsinger 6:40 pm on October 26, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Your mother sounds like she was a wonderful christian wife, mother, sister and friend. I know you all will miss her. My sympathy to your family and you.

  • Richard Mansel 12:27 pm on October 12, 2010 Permalink | Reply
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    Restlessness of Youth 

    My article today discusses the restless nature of youth and how it can ruin their lives. We also need to consider what it can mean to our congregations.

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    • Mike Riley 3:05 pm on October 12, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      The energy that the young possess must be channeled in the right direction. One suggestion: Put them to work doing good deeds for seniors in the community.

      Example: While I was assisting in conducting our monthly devotional at our local Veterans Home about two weeks ago, I noticed some high school students who had voluntarily come there to visit and eat lunch with the residents. It was an uplifting experience, not only for the veterans who reside there, but also for the students in learning to care for others.

  • Richard Mansel 8:53 am on October 5, 2010 Permalink | Reply
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    What About the Unwanted? 

    Why are people in the church so disdainful of those who are different, through no fault of their own? What about the disabled? What about the child who needs special care? What about the depressed? Do we ignore them and hope they go away?

    I hope you will read and share my article today, Do We Accept the Unacceptable? There are a lot of hurting people out there and the sooner we accept that, the better off we and the kingdom will be!

     

  • Richard Mansel 8:33 am on September 13, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: forthright,   

    Randal’s Visit 

    Randal and Vicki  Matheny spent the weekend with us and we heard a wonderful sermon from him on Sunday morning and a stirring account of their mission work on Sunday night. They have headed out to further visits. It was an extraordinary blessing to spend time with them. Read his thoughts on the trip.

     

  • Richard Mansel 8:56 am on September 11, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: burning the quran, forthright,   

    A Missionary Perspective on Burning Qurans 

    Mike Brooks is a missionary in a Muslim country. He shares his perspective on the plans that people in the United States have to burn Qurans. He writes that we should offer the gospel and love, rather than bombs and fires. Read his excellent thoughts.

     

  • Richard Mansel 7:25 am on September 7, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , forthright, mourn,   

    Beatitudes 

    Do you want to know more about the Beatitudes? The Sermon on the Mount is a breathtaking sermon. Today is Blessed are they that Mourn.

    Earlier Articles:

    Blessed are the Poor in Spirit

    The Shot Heard Round the World

     

  • Richard Mansel 9:54 pm on September 5, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: forthright, ,   

    Richard Hill’s Article at Forthright 

    Someone indicated that they were having problems with an earlier link. Here it is again. Richard wrote a good article on the “Dangerous ‘They’” and how they threaten the Lord’s Church.

     

  • Richard Mansel 9:46 am on September 4, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: forthright,   

    Serious Threat to the Lord’s Church 

    Other than false teachers, no one does more damage to the Lord’s work than “THEY.” Richard Hill gives us a good reminder today at  Forthright.

     

  • Richard Mansel 7:04 am on September 1, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: forthright, , ,   

    The Resurrection is Easier to Believe 

    Barry Newton provides some excellent food for thought this morning on the believability of the Resurrection of Christ.

     

  • Richard Mansel 6:37 am on August 31, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , forthright, poor in spirit,   

    Beatitudes 

    I am beginning a series of articles on the Beatitudes and I hope you will read and share them. Today, we look at why Jesus used, “Blessed are the poor in spirit” first. It is so profound and practical. I hope you will read the article and give feedback. Share your thoughts because they are different from mine and I can learn from you.

     

  • Richard Mansel 8:57 am on August 19, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: forthright,   

    Don’t Pick a Fight 

    Mike Benson’s excellent article on being combative as a preacher is a must read.

     

  • Richard Mansel 8:51 am on August 17, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , forthright,   

    Helping the Poor 

    Considering my article today about the insistence in Scripture that we help the poor, what does your congregation do to accomplish this goal?

    Helping the poor is more complex than it ought to be. The reality of scammers and those who want handouts, but refuse to take care of themselves, makes this unnecessarily difficult. We can help the poor, but we cannot change the person.

    However, we must remember that helping the poor is a command. Yet, we are also commanded to be good stewards and to be wise. With all of these factors in mind, how can we help the needy?

     

    • Gerald Austin 12:12 pm on August 17, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Though I do not want to support or encourage laziness I would rather be guilty of helping someone who didn’t need than passing over someone who did.

      I am a poor steward of money in some eyes. It has little value as far as saving any.
      However I try to be a good steward of the love Christ has shown to me. It is never wasted as long as its given freely. I fail in this often and am by no means an expert but try to be an enthusiastic apprentice. I try too err on the side of love as opposed to wisdom.

  • Richard Mansel 8:44 am on August 17, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , forthright, helping,   

    Seeing Jesus Through a Helping Hand 

    Justin Imel tells about a disabled boy years ago who sold items on the platform as passengers exited a commuter train. One day, a businessman rushes from the train to meet an appointment and crashes into the boy, spilling the contents of his basket. He leaves, never even looking down. As other passengers pass, trampling his goods, another man stopped. He offered his hand, helped the boy up and gathered his things together. Wiping away tears and dusting himself off, the boy, in a quivering voice, asked, “Mister, are you Jesus?”

    Read More

     

  • Richard Mansel 10:58 am on August 14, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , forthright, ,   

    An Unforgettable Story of Faith 

    Mike Brooks has given us an unforgettable story of faith, courage and resolve in Bangladesh. Destitute brethren refuse to back down after their meeting place is repeatedly burned. Read this amazing story and share with others.

     

  • Richard Mansel 11:19 am on August 10, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: forthright, , ,   

    I’ve Not Been Active 

    Greetings. I have not been active here lately. As  you know, I have been working on getting my website and mission started helping people become better writers. That has taken a lot of my time. It is like trying to raise a baby. I am proud of the progress so far.

    My question at the blog today is where your ideas for articles come from. Share your stories.

    Today is three months since I began these health challenges. I am somewhat better and learning how to cope with everything. Overcoming self-reliance, so I can accept help from others was a challenge. I expect that is true of most men. My family has been extraordinary.

    My article today is called Peace in His Pocket and looks at one man’s life and how he remains calm amidst chaos.

    I had the privilege to vote today, which is always an extraordinary opportunity.

    We plan to have Randal and his family with us in Georgia in September. It will be glorious to see them again and to hear him preach!

    Daniel’s recent nudge turns our minds to sanctification, which is one of the most vital and overlooked topics in the New Testament. Thanks, Daniel, for reminding us.

    On Wednesday, I plan to start a series on the Sermon on the Mount. That should be a lot of fun.

     

    • Daniel Haynes 12:09 pm on August 10, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Richard,

      In preparation for your series, “The Sermon on the Mount”, I would recommend considering how the Early Christians understood Jesus and how they put his message into practice. Very interesting, challenging, and eye-opening.

      I am about to start a series entitled, “What the Early Christians Believed About…” I plan to take a look at a several subjects. I pray that it will be rewarding to those who hear.

      • Richard Mansel 3:19 pm on August 10, 2010 Permalink | Reply

        Thanks for the advice, Daniel and I know those in your class will be blessed by your material.

  • Richard Mansel 8:18 am on August 4, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , forthright,   

    Apologetics 

    John Henson reports today on Forthright about a new Apologetics Center that is planned. It will be named after Thomas B. Warren, that great warrior for the faith. Read the story here.

     

  • Richard Mansel 7:47 am on July 27, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , forthright, , , ,   

    Trusting Our Loved Ones 

    I hope you will read my new article, Trusting Our Loved Ones It is advanced relationship training. It solves a key problem related to how we communicate with one another. Should we have to start over every day or does our history together matter?

    As I discussed with Randal, the ability to write fiction is allowing me to dig deeper on some subjects. That is the power of prose. I look forward to your insight on this challenging aspect of our relationships.

     

    • Mike Riley 7:09 pm on July 27, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Richard, I definitely believe history together matters. Many of the things we do and say have to do with our own selfishness – thinking of ourselves before thinking of others. The New Testament teaches a different concept (Philippians 2:3-5; cf. 1 Corinthians 13:5).

  • Richard Mansel 5:56 am on July 20, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , forthright, , ,   

    The Savior of the Undesirables 

    “I once preached for a congregation with a shameful past. In previous years, a man would stand in the door and not allow anyone of a different skin color to enter. Yet, Christ is the Savior of those man rejects.”

    Read More

     

    • Tim Hester 4:10 pm on July 20, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Several years ago in a little church in Mississippi one of the members was also the county sheriff. When visitors would come in whom he did not think belonged (usually skin color) he would go out to his car, strap on his gun belt, and then sit on the pew right next to them. It is heart warming to know now that this congregation does not hold this same attitude.

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