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What role does social media have in Biblical fellowship? More specifically, what does it do to the lines between sound and unsound brethren? In the past, I have received Facebook friendship requests from false teachers who have dozens of sound brethren as “friends.”
Should we be Facebook friends with false teachers? Do we need to examine the Scriptures on fellowship through the prism of social media? I look forward to the discussion.
Does one seek the welfare of the country when he preaches political and national loyalty? That’s what some thought during Jeremiah’s day (Jeremiah 38:4). “Jeremiah! You are weakening the people with your constant preaching. You need to stop, or we will make you stop!”
What did Paul say, “Have I become your enemy by telling you the truth?” (Galatians 4:16). Certainly Jeremiah could have said the same things (perhaps he did), but when loyalty is to something other than the Lord no word from the Lord will make a difference until the one who refuses it pays a tremendous price.
What does a person have to pay before he learns?
Well said, Ron. Just because the world wants to entwine religion and politics doesn’t mean that we have to do the same. What about putting the kingdom of God and his righteousness first?
Thank you, John, for your kind words.
One of Judah’s most serious problems was it worshipped God ritualistically, not with the heart.
By inspiration, Isaiah gave voice to God’s complaint against them. He wrote, “Yet they seek me daily and delight to know my ways, as if they were a nation that did righteousness and did not forsake the judgment of their God; they ask of me righteous judgments; they delight to draw near to God,” (Isaiah 58:2).
(Read the remainder of this article at http://wp.me/p11jAq-29.)
No divine truth fails to apply to man’s need and service. All doctrine finds usefulness in daily faith. What God says always makes a difference to his creatures. “Every Scripture is … useful.” As well, no faith can be exercised apart from truth. Every spiritual movement springs from an oracle of the Lord. We are God’s evangelists, all of us, and his words, all of them, bring life, create meaning, provide strength, establish purpose, and issue forth in fellowship with his glorious presence.
A false doctrine, no matter how artfully constructed, is still a false doctrine. No building can be successfully built with a shoddy foundation.
Paul said our faith should be “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone” (Ephesians 2:20).
We each have a sobering responsibility to pore over the Word of God (2 Timothy 2:15), to see if we are truly living as God’s people (Ephesians 4:1).
We build the foundation of our faith on the rock of Jesus, so we can withstand the forces of sin.
” Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall” (Matthew 7:24-27).
We must have the courage to examine our doctrines and be certain they are Biblical, so as to please God. False doctrines have no transformative power, in that it does not elevate us into the arms of God (Romans 12:1-2). Rather, it drags us down into the displeasure of our Lord (Galatians 1:7-9).
We must beware what we teach because it DOES carry a heavy price (John 12:48) on our souls and those of the world (Matthew 28:18-20). Build carefully by the Lord’ building codes.
Dr. Thomas Sowell has another masterful column about politics and the economy today. He makes more salient points that Americans need to consider. His premise is that we cannot use reality to understand politicians, because they most often act contrary to all normal conventions.
It is hard to understand politics if you are hung up on reality. Politicians leave reality to others. What matters in politics is what you can get the voters to believe, whether it bears any resemblance to reality or not.
Not only among politicians, but also among much of the media, and even among some of the public, the quest is not for truth about reality but for talking points that fit a vision or advance an agenda. Some seem to see it as a personal contest about who is best at fencing with words.
He discusses some examples such as taxes on the rich. There is solid, verifiable proof of what happens when you cut taxes or raise taxes on the rich. Yet, Sowell writes, they do not care at all about these statistics, only their talking points. If it doesn’t fit the script, it must go. They must always choose emotion/popularity over reason and facts.
I realized that this is a good way to understand the current state of Christianity in America. Those who falsely call themselves Christians have their own talking points and they will push them with all of their abilities. If they conflict with what Scripture says, they will choose emotion/popularity every time.
For example, there is not one example or iota of proof in the New Testament that infant baptism is Scriptural. Yet, millions persist in this doctrine out of tradition. They get angry if you point out their fallacy and treat you like you are a heathen. They can’t allow facts to get in the way.
On so many doctrines, the will of God –like the will of the people to politicians–carry no weight when compared to popularity and filling their coffers –or getting re-elected.
We just have to continue to study and proclaim the Word (2 Timothy 4:2) and stand for truth in every way. We cannot succumb to the fleshly ideal that man’s will trumps God’s because we can’t bear to face the former.
Let us ALWAYS exist in the reality that God’s will is the only one that matters. Outside of His reality, there is only fantasy and death. Only in Christ will we find life and truth (John 10:10).
Great thoughts!
Dr. Sowell’s premise is “right on!”
“We cannot use reality to understand politicians, because they most often act contrary to all normal conventions.”
When you have an “agenda” of furthering your own philosophies, ideologies and bank account, you will more than likely “act contrary to all normal conventions.”
A liar and thief doesn’t possess any “normal conventions” of morality.
I agree, I mainly blame the media for out current political climate. They are the filters for which we get most of the information about politicians and policies, etc.
“If Jesus was a liar, a con man, and therefore an evil, foolish man, then how can we explain the fact that He left us with the most profound moral instruction and powerful moral examples that anyone ever has left? Could a deceiver–an imposter of monstrous proportions–teach such unselfish ethical truths and live such a morally exemplary life as Jesus did? The very notion is incredulous.”
Josh McDowell, “More Evidence That Demands a Verdict,” page 159.
• Tonight at Taubaté Humberto preached on why we don’t follow the Old Testament as the church’s guide. Good job he did. We need sermons like his to help us make the proper distinctions for “teaching the message of truth accurately” (2 Tim 2.15 NET).
• Sent tonight from my personal Twitter account: Political pundits say personnel is policy. It’s true of the church too. Fellowship with false teachers sets church policy to approve error.
• Does your Sunday Bible school have good participation? Do people study ahead of time? Or is it one-man-talking? Anybody have good suggestions for helping people prepare ahead of time and for helping teachers to encourage enlightened participation?
• Also, does your congregation have an approach to evangelism that everyone is able to participate in? If so, please describe it. We’re always looking for good ideas. If not, why not?
• Truth is not “interesting,” as if it were another nifty or cool idea to entertain, until the next one comes along. Rather, truth is the reality of what is, the record of what was, the promise of what is to come. Only by embracing truth in its fullness, may we become free.
• The first part of an alarm clock to wear out is the snooze button.
• I’ve mentioned it somewhere before, but Brazilians have a saying roughly equivalent to our “A word to the wise is sufficient.” My somewhat literal translation: “For the one who understands, half a word is enough.” My paraphrase: “For the one who gets it, half a word does it.” Would that I could be so in relation to the word of God!
Help me to understand what your precepts mean! Then I can meditate on your marvelous teachings. Psalm 119.27 NET
Taking advantage of jean’s driving home from evening services. Can I scream AMEN loud enough for everyone to agree with your second point? Congregation & Evangelism: for us, one component includes Monday night for the Master. We regularly have 7 or more Evangelical items taking place, such as, follow up cards, visitations, snacks freshly naked and taken to previous day visitors, FriendSpeak, prepping material for upcoming local Vbs and 2 summer mission VBS’s. This probably gives you a general idea: everyone evangelizes in some manner.
BAKED, sorry, bumpy road.
Thanks, Steve. When I saw that phrase on a political blog, it really walloped me that this is what happens spiritually as well.
I was really concerned about those naked snacks. ;-)
Christianity is a religion of action. We take what the Bible teaches and put it into practice in our lives. We make application to and from God’s Word in our daily lives. If we are truly living for the Lord a change in our lifestyle must be evident. Others, Christians and non-Christians alike must be able to ascertain that difference. We must be found “practicing what we preach (believe).
One of the words used for the Christian’s life is the word “walk.” Walking denotes that we are making progress. In the spiritual realm it denotes growing in Jesus. All of us grow up in Christ differently. What the Lord desires is spiritual growth.
The Apostle John writes about spiritual growth in 2 John 4-6 where he stresses “walking in Christ’s commandments.” He says that there must be evidences of our conversion that is visible to others.
John rejoiced greatly when he found some of the “Elect Lady’s” children walking in the way of truth. This shows that these folks were growing in Christ and were active in His service.
John MacArthur writes, “The word ‘walking’ has reference to continual walking in the truth, i.e., making obedience to the truth a habit in one’s life.”
The Word of God continually tells parents that it is their responsibility to teach the Bible principles to their children. It also exhorts all Christians to study and obey God”s Word and to teach others about the importance of the Scriptures.
In 2 John 5 we read John’s words ofcommendation to the way the Elect Lady had raised her children. She had led them in the way if truth. But they had to continue to walk in truth even when they were outside her influence.
This is the passage where John talks in verse 6 about making the Christian life a continued way of love, establishing habits that will last us eternally and enable us to live for Him in all situations we come across.
I John 5:2-3 reads as follows: “By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God that we keep His commandments: and His commandments are not grievous.” So, let’s always strive to “grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus!” Let’s be found as a people who look to God”s Word for our guidance and always be living for Him!
-Larry Miles, May 18, 2011
The word “truth” is one of the Apostle John’s favorite words. It is used 27 times in the Gospel of John; 10 times in I John; 5 times in 2 John and 5 times in 3 John.
John had a passion for the truth. The word “passion” simply refers to string feelings or emotions. John had a passion or great love for truth. Of course, this was transferred to those who loved truth as he did. He loved the truth and hated every false way (Psalm 119:138). He loved those who loved truth and hated those who didn’t (Psalm 139:21-22).
In 2 John we have the account of the “Elect Lady.” This is either referring to an individual or to the Church. It is my view that it is an individual or it could refer to both.
John had a great love or this sister and her children because they loved the truth as he did. He loved them because of the common love they shared.
We must love the truth of the Scriptures. We must, as God told Joshua back in Joshua 1 not only to read the Word of God, but to study it, meditate upon it, and live in it and be able to share it with others. Let’s make it a practice to regularly read and study God’s Word.
-Larry Miles, May 18, 2011
One of this year’s premier commencement speeches has the rapt attention of the media.
Speaker John Boehner, of Ohio, a graduate of Catholic schools and Xavier University, will speak at the Catholic University of America’s graduation ceremonies, even after several professors protested his appointment.
A letter from several university faculty members complained about Boehner’s budget which supports cuts in spending for several programs that benefit the poor. According to the letter, the professors charged, “a proposed 2012 budget Boehner steered to passage in the House of Representatives cuts Medicare, Medicaid and social welfare programs while carving out $3 trillion in new tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy.”
The Speaker, a skilled politician, will probably please his listeners and make some noteworthy pronouncements for reporters. In my opinion, however, he probably won’t give graduates good advice for true success.
The best advice they could receive would be to read the truth of the Bible and obey its commands. Obey the gospel and start living faithful lives would be the most important information these graduates could ever get.
Worldly wisdom demands students hear jokes, stories and an emotional appeal. Of course, the world by wisdom knew not God (1 Corinthians 1:21). Worldly wisdom killed the Lord of glory (1 Corinthians 2:8).
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the Speaker and all other speakers at commencements all over the world would give graduates what is really needed for a successful life?
The inspired Apostle Paul wrote, “so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without blemish though you live in a crooked and perverse society, in which you shine as lights in the world by holding on to the word of life so that on the day of Christ I will have a reason to boast that I did not run in vain nor labor in vain, (Philippians 2:15-16 NET).
We need to remember we live in a “crooked and perverse society.” The reason why we need to remember is so we won’t become like it. If we’re not careful, the influence of the world will overcome us and we church members will become more worldly. Then, our lights will start going out.
We have a responsibility to create a difference within ourselves so people can see the contrast of us and the world. Without that contrast, many will never see the light, will they?
A road sign said, “If you were accused of being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?” Jesus said, “They do not belong to the world just as I do not belong to the world. Set them apart in the truth; your word is truth, (John 17:16-17 NET). Is there enough evidence of a difference?
Paul’s inspired directions for living are simple and direct.
“Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying,” (Romans 12:12 NLT). The entire 12th chapter of Romans is filled with this kind of simple truth from beginning to end. But, let’s magnify this one pair of sentences for the beauty they impart.
“Rejoice in our confident hope.” Does it occur to you there is little of this? We must do more! Christians have much to be happy about, but our confident hope of heaven should be right at the top of the list, shouldn’t it?
“Be patient in trouble,” Paul says. Whenever trouble happens, bear up underneath it. Don’t let the troubles of the world crush you. Push up against it.
“Keep on praying.” Nothing in this world can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:37-39). If we keep on praying, we keep our spiritual balance.
Such a simple triad of principles, yet they’re so rich in truth, aren’t they?
In a world that seems to be bombarded with decadence and
degradation of values, I am reminded of the saying that my
grandmother used. I finally was able to trace it to another
grandmother:
There is nothing so kingly as kindness, and nothing so royal as truth.
… Alice Cary
(Prov 23:23) Buy the truth, and do not sell it, Also wisdom and
instruction and understanding.
If you want to start a restoration, seek truth above all else…
"Thoughts For Today to Brighten Your Day" by Glenn Hitchcock
The personal development truth that I chose is: “There’s no such thing as ‘risk free.’ Everything you do or don’t do has an inherent risk.”
Indeed true.
There’s even a “risk” in being a disciple of Christ: http://mbriley.preachersfiles.com/2006/01/09/the-risk-of-being-a-disciple-of-christ/
The question is, Are we willing to take the “risk”?
In a discussion on Facebook, I posted the following and I want to share it with you. I said, “I have no reason to accept man’s ignorant knowledge when I can accept God’s infinite knowledge.”
We cannot conceive of any idea too bizarre that it does not already have defenders. Their theories will be banded about and given validity by someone. However, in the field of ideas on God’s Word, man can have his own views, but they will amount to nothing. In fact, in terms of these ideas, it doesn’t matter who is right or wrong, it only matters that God is right (Psalm 119:89).
Let us always stand firm with Him, because we have no choice if we wish to be right in the end (Revelation 20:11-15). “Indeed, let God be true but every man a liar” (Romans 3:4).
Amen and Amen, brother Richard. Romans 3:4 says it all.
“Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior” (2 Peter 3:1-2 NKJV).
Americans seem predisposed to be suspicious and always looking for “hidden meanings.” The plethora of Crime Scene Investigative TV shows, hidden psychological explanations of behaviors, and movies like “The Da Vinci Code,” and political platitudes have so fostered a climate of doubt, disgust, and distrust, that many, if not, most Americans rarely accept anything “at face value.” But this honesty with truth is exactly what Peter is calling for: “be mindful of the words” of the holy prophets and apostles of the Lord. Many today approach the Bible with their same daily doubt so that they look off the pages, between the lines, or beneath the words for some “code,” and are bereft of the faith that comes from reading and accepting the word of God “at face value.” The Devil has disciples by causing people to look for God’s Truth everywhere else but at the words, themselves.
Our task as Christians and Teachers is to convince everyone of the absolute truth of the Word of God “as it is in truth” (1 Thessalonians 2:13). To do that, we must: “let your “Yes,” be “Yes,” and your “No,” “No,” lest you fall into judgment” (James 5:12). Let’s keep all eyes clearly focused upon “the words” of the Scriptures that God has given to all.
Johnny. Thanks for these thoughts about how we must stad upon the Word of God. May we always “contend for the faith once for all delivered to the saints.” we have a reliable sat dats to follow that will lead us n our walk for the Risen Lord.
Have you embraced your parent’s religion, and do you know whether or not it is right? This is a question that each of us should ask (cf. Matthew 10:34-39). We should ask it because what does truth have to fear? It has to fear nothing. If there is nothing to fear in searching for truth, after having learned the truth, why should one stay where the truth is not located? We are not speaking of where truth is located in part, but the truth in total.
Parents are a powerful influence on children. Those who are fortunate to be raised in a loving home especially have a hard time accepting anything different than what the parents have believed. However, Jesus said that if one loved parent more than Him, the ones who love parents more are not worthy of the Lord (Luke 14:26, cf. Luke 12:53). It does not matter what your parents believe (believed) or where they are at in relation to eternity. What matters is the truth. Does it matter to you? RT
Good thoughts, Ron. My mother grew up in a Congregationalist church. She played the piano for them. She married, moved to Clinton, and “happened” to visit the Lord’s church once at the invitation of an Amway contact. She was given a tract focusing on salvation. She read it and was mad. She argued with it with an open Bible for a couple weeks and finally could not resist the truth it contained. Her parents’ religion was wrong. She obeyed the gospel and the rest is history!
Thank you, Stephen. Appreciate the kind words.
Good thoughts regarding your mother, Stephen! If individuals are true to themselves, they cannot resist God’s truth.
How important is telling the truth to you? The fact is people lie! In fact recent research in Great Britain by the Science Museum of London revealed that Brits average from two to three lies a day: men three a day and women two a day. Before you wag your finger and cluck your tongue at our friends across the sea, consider that over 70% of Americans told CNN on George Washington’s birthday this year that surely George did indeed tell lies. The fact is that lying has become a way of life with many. But its prevalence does not justify its practice! Lying is a sin, a scourge and a curse. This is Just-A-Minute with Ed Boggess
Did you know that the majority of American teenagers seventeen and younger believe that lying and cheating is a necessary ingredient of a successful career? That is the finding of the Josephson Institute of Ethics last year. Truth is fallen in the street. There was a day when honesty was revered, when contracts were sealed with a handshake, when front doors were left unlocked, when lost billfolds were returned with the contents in tact; but today honesty has been mugged in the alley and left for dead. In its place we are left with a pack of hoodlums: lies, cheats, distortions, exaggerations, tales, gossip; all led by the Devil himself! This is Just-A-Minute with Ed Boggess
The stereotype is that Christians are the most narrow-minded people on the planet. Yet, the real truth is that atheists are the true champions of intolerance. No contest. No one is more harsh to opposing views than those who hate the idea of God. Then again, contemplate where their ideas originated (John 8:44).
Christians are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians. 4:15) and be people of love (1 John 4:7-12). We need to show love even to those who are rude and cruel (Matthew 5:43-48). We have a higher calling than, what C.S. Lewis called, “Our Father below.” Satan goes for the low blow and the cheap shot. Christ offers love and kindness. Satan shoots you in the back, while Christ takes your hand and gives you a hug, The contrast could not be any clearer.
I enjoy commentaries, but sometimes I read things that irritate me. Here is one example. I am preaching on Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5 this Sunday. F.F. Bruce writes about how Peter handled the situation. He says, “At this stage Peter had not had much experience in pastoral ministry; otherwise he would probably have broken in the news of Ananias’ death to her before he questioned her, and the result may have been happier.”
God was the one in charge of the situation, not Peter. This reminds me of commentators who say that if John the Immerser had had some tact, he would not have lost his head.
Maybe this says more about the attitude today about the forcefulness of truth than anything. What do you think of Bruce’s comments?
Surprising that this would come from Bruce. One might expect it of, say, Wm. Barclay.
Sounds like Bruce is being influenced by some of his colleagues that doubt inspiration.
If we get restless inside God’s Word, and decide to go exploring, Christ will NOT go with us! (Hebrew 6:4-6; Hebrews 10:26-31; Galatians 1:8-9; et al).
If you want to teach the truth to people who desperately need it, then “like” the major news networks’ Facebook pages and when they post moral topics, which is often, teach the truth to the humanists and doubters. Remain calm and stay in the book and show love to all. You might lead someone to Christ.
Thanks for this post Richard. I couldn’t agree with you more that we must “remain calm and stay in the book.” These are words we need to teach to all Christians. There are so many who have good hearts and great intentions, but lose sight of that one simple principle. It’s a balance that we should all learn. Blessings! – Troy
In a very real sense, right and wrong are NOT up for discussion.
There aren’t any dead atheists.
Amen.
Yes there are.
I would say more, but one sentence deserves one sentence. :)
No dead a theists exist, because they now know for certain that God exists. They know they were wrong and are paying the price.
That’s a lovely assertion. But as you have no evidence to back it up, that’s all it is. And there’s no good reason to believe it or agree with it.
Morsecode, I can’t make you accept anything. The evidence for God is all throughout nature, the universe and in Scripture. God exists whether people believe in Him or not. If you disagree, that is your right, but it doesn’t change the certainty of a judgment (Hebrews 9:27) and a test of what we have believed, lived and professed.
A detail of Jesus’ trials? There was no trial to it, just some trumped up charges by false witnesses who perverted the truth (Matthew 26:57-63).
Brother Wayne Jackson lists other violations of Jesus’ right to a fair and unbiased trial:
See Jackson, Part 1: http://www.christiancourier.com/articles/701-the-theological-implications-of-the-trial-of-jesus-part-1
See Jackson, Part 2: http://www.christiancourier.com/articles/705-the-theological-implications-of-the-trial-of-jesus-part-2
I’ve enjoyed reading everyone’s comments today. So many good thoughts. Here’s what I like about the whole interaction between Jesus and the Samaritan woman.
We read this story thinking how well the conversation is going. Suddenly, Jesus leads the discussion into her marital problems and shortly after that casts dispersions on the way Samaritans worship. Wow! What manual on evangelism did he get that from?? Is this the way we evangelize?
Here’s the clincher. She doesn’t recoil. She doesn’t walk away mad. She listens. Why?
Notice Jesus very deliberately, without fear or regret, exposes the truth. Again, how can he get away with these blunt comments? Maybe it’s because he’s been exposing truth all along.
By his actions he shows her the way our cultures treat women is wrong. The way Jews treat Samaritans is wrong. The way people treat sinners is wrong. These things made the difference. She saw Jesus as one who exhibited truth. He didn’t care who might be upset–like his disciples–or what anyone else might think. It was clear to her. It should be clear to us. You can’t distinguish between Jesus and Truth. They are one and the same. She was listening because he was not afraid to be and speak truth in both a vulnerable and authoritative way.
Still, not everyone reacts well to the truth. She does. She reacts with humility, wisdom, and zeal. For this reason her story stands out in Scripture.
How many times have we left people “truthless” in our wake? Afraid to be vulnerable. Afraid to speak God’s truth with confident and without apology. Afraid sometimes to even say a word.
Without Jesus, the disciples would have passed these people by without so much as a single word about the good news of the Kingdom.
In our daily interactions with people do we act as if we’re without Jesus?
Great points as usual, Richard!
Time, whose tooth gnaws away at everything else, is powerless against truth.
Thomas Henry Huxley, English biologist and essayist (1825-1895)
Whatever Happened to Truth? is an excellent article written by Mike Vestal. The article offers three practical points from Proverbs 23:23.
I think the biggest question that has made a difference for me is, “How do you know that is true?” “That” can be anything regarding religious teachings or things in the secular world. It has caused me to always question and seek evidence to back up claims made, whether they be claims about some aspect of the gospel, claims about a person that might defame his/her character, or claims about some new diet pill or similar. I want to make sure that any decision I make is based on truth.
Along these lines, we had a gospel meeting several years back entitled, Great Questions of the Bible.
Good one, Laura. That series looks interesting. I’ve spent a number of sermon series on different things that Jesus did or said. A couple of series were the compliments Jesus paid people and the rebukes he gave. Maybe a series on the questions Jesus asked are in order. Anyway, your question is one that needs to be heard more and more, but that fewer want to ask.
Belief is truth held in the mind; faith is a fire in the heart.
Joseph Fort Newton
Brethren, I hope we’re all availing ourselves of the opportunities to teach the truth to those in Catholicism in light of the recent headlines concerning pedophilic priests. There is a whale of debate going on the news Web site message boards about it, and people in the Catholic church are at the least upset and at most ready to leave. They’re looking for the truth, and we have an opportunity to give it to them. I’ve posted some of the news articles on Facebook, because I wanted my Catholic friends to see what was going on warts and all. They don’t like it, and a couple have clicked me “off,” but if they can see the inconsistency and evil involved, perhaps they can search for and find the truth.
John, the Montana St. congregation has a 30 minute evangelistic television program here in El Paso every Friday evening, in which the Bible is taught by a preacher and an elder who are members of the church. The program reaches to all of El Paso County (approximately 750,000), most of the residents being of the Catholic faith. After almost a year since it began, we’ve had no responses to the gospel call, but we are still hopeful for some to respond.
However, since this recent episode concerning the pedophilic priests, there may be those Catholic folks who are looking for the truth. We pray that you are correct and that God will provide us the opportunity to teach these truth seekers.
Once we are loosed from Biblical authority, we find it very easy to mistake our beliefs for God’s.
This is definitely the case!
“I think God…” or something like “I don’t think God…”
When a person begins a sentence or incorporates this sentiment anywhere within the sentence, then we know more about that person’s knowledge of the Lord’s will than they wanted to be known.
Would it not be better to say, “The Scriptures says…”
Thought-provoking, Ron.
Richard and Ron, you have zeroed in on the hearts of men. Well said.
The most frequently heard “I think God” statement at least for me is “I think God wants me to be happy.” People are usually referring to some kind of personal sinful situation.
They rationalize that a good God wants good things to happen to them. They also rationalize the direct clear command they are breaking is negated by this overriding principle.
To suggest the blessedness God promises comes to those who trust and obey seems to fall on deaf ears.
Good words fellows. God is more concerned about our faithfulness (which He commands) than our happiness.
For what it is worth, here is an article of mine entitled, “God Wants Me to Be Happy!”
http://www.forthright.net/square_one/god_wants_me_to_be_happy.html
Which proverb?
Cite your favorite proverb from Scripture and explain why it’s nearest and dearest to your heart, goes this Daily Nudge. This week, we’re doing several favorites, again, but no repetitions from past days.
A proverb, says Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary, is “a short, pithy statement about human nature and life.” It packs a lot of wisdom in a small space. I like pithy. As such, this literary device is “designed to make God’s truth accessible to all people, so they might direct their lives in accordance with His will.” Another means, then, of divine revelation, so we dull and simple folk might get it. Isn’t it wonderful that the Lord doesn’t write for scholars?
Obviously, anything from the compilation we call the Book of Proverbs qualifies. But other proverbs are scattered throughout Scripture, so you’ll lose no points if you cite one from elsewhere than the 31 chapters of the book of wisdom by Solomon and other pithy writers.
With the modern’s short attention span and social networks like Twitter, one would think that the proverb would be a wonderful device for communicating truth today.
Am I late today? I stayed up working on an article on my neglected blog, about three rules for approaching the Bible, using Acts 1, which should go up later this morning. Being my day off, I slept in this morning and was able to snooze until 8 a.m., which I’ve not done in ages and ages. But enough of my personal habits.
I’ve not answered the Nudge in several days, so here goes my choice of proverb. It’s a word of Jesus’, in Matt. 11:17 and Luke 7:32. I quote from Luke, in the NET Bible:
They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling out to one another,
‘We played the flute for you, yet you did not dance;
we wailed in mourning, yet you did not weep.’
I like it because it reminds us of human inconsistency in people who, like the Jews of that generation (v. 31), unhappy with anything that didn’t fit their preconceived ideas, discount wisdom whenever it appears in any of her children (v. 35), be it John the Baptist or Jesus himself (v. 33-34) or a saint today.
Who’s got news today?
If I were to start my life in Christ over again, what would I do differently? I would try to be more attuned to other people seeking God’s truth in their lives as I was, realizing that we’re all in the same boat of life. We all have to learn to row together instead of rowing opposite one another in order to achieve the spiritual goals that God has placed before us.
The greatest truths are the simplest, and so are the greatest men.
J.C. Hare, English clergyman and writer (1796-1855)
Tiger Woods recently repented before national television cameras for his serial infidelities. He hopes to restore his reputation, marriage, family and career. The problem is that, as a celebrity, his forgiveness will not be accepted by most people. They will either refuse to believe him or just ignore his pleas altogether.
This serves as further proof of why forgiveness is such a challenging endeavor. Forgiveness is very difficult because we wrap it up in a shroud of emotion and pride. Sadly, it allows others an opportunity to feel superior. Moreover, we hold others to a higher standard than we hold ourselves. They don’t have to follow the same rules as we follow.
Comments will be appreciated on my article bearing the same name as this post.
We have a church of some kind across the street from our church building. When we arrive on Sunday morning, they are in full bloom with their loud instruments. Their auditorium is very small, yet their preacher needs a loud sound system and preaches to the drummer’s back beat. We can hear most of what they say and sing all the way across the street, even if we can’t understand the words. The people inside must be nearly deaf. For the record, false doctrine isn’t any more true if shouted.
We also have a billboard less than a mile away boasting a start-up church where their husband and wife pastor team proclaim their motto for the year: “No Sin in 2010.”
How long do you think that lasted? (Romans 3:23; 1 Peter 5:8).
It is heartbreaking how confused people are in the religious world. *sigh*
Stan Mitchell wonders if we would deceive others to make more money or gain an advantage. Read more.
Rick Kelley are discussing. 
Stevelucas are discussing. 
Larry Miles is discussing. 
Chris Gallagher 7:53 am on March 8, 2012 Permalink |
Richard,
What an interesting question, I will open the flood gates of discussion regarding this question. There are people on my Facebook and Twitter list with whom I strongly disagree. I go further and have joined groups with those in which I strongly disagree for a couple reasons:
(1) I want to see how I can influence them for good through posting articles, links, material and even joining in discussions.
(2) I want keep up with the current thoughts of those with whom I disagree. I learned growing up that examining the others side of an issue many times will aid me in strengthening my foundation for my beliefs.
I appreciate the discussion and look forward to it.
Thanks,
Chris
John T. Polk II 10:58 am on March 8, 2012 Permalink |
Richard, thanks for bringing up the point for discussion. What Paul bound in 1 Corinthians 5 deals with (1) a local situation known to the local brethren; (2) involved purging out the “leaven” of observing our “Passover” (in the Lord’s Supper?); (3) and dealing with brethren who refused to repent when chastised; then surely we must deal with those whom we know to be in sin in such a way as to try to bring them to repentance.
What then is impressed by Paul on Timothy (and us!) in dealing with false teachers is not designed to bring them to repentance as much as it is to preserve us from the error of their doctrine(s) in 1 Timothy 6:1-5. This tells us (1) the doctrine is set; (2) anyone teaching anything contrariwise is false; (3) we must remain “withdrawn” from them.
That said, “social networking” blurs this distinction by allowing false teachers to continue to have influence over their acolytes. However, this electronic media works both ways! That’s why I have posted my debate charts with two false teachers on our website to keep the “marked” and refute their unscriptural doctrines that divide churches of Christ. One of these advocates the false doctrine that church-funded benevolence is for “saints only” (http://doverchurchofchrist.info/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/RELIGIOUS-DISCUSSION-At-Northside-Church-of-Chri3.swf), the other advocates the false doctrine that brethren cannot eat meals in the church building (http://doverchurchofchrist.info/wpcontent/uploads/2011/10/PolkDonahueDebate.swf).
This permits false teachers and their false doctrine(s) to be easily identified and refuted!
Thus, when “social media” continually keeps the error of their doctrine before them (which is why I post these links on my “Facebook” page), others may be warned, also.
God help us to maintain the Biblical lines clearly drawn by the Bible in our “postmodern” age! “Preach the word.”
John T. Polk II
John T. Polk II 10:47 am on March 9, 2012 Permalink |
Correction: the weblinks have been corrected and should work, now. Sorry for the inconvenience.
Richard, thanks for bringing up the point for discussion. What Paul bound in 1 Corinthians 5 deals with (1) a local situation known to the local brethren; (2) involved purging out the “leaven” of observing our “Passover” (in the Lord’s Supper?); (3) and dealing with brethren who refused to repent when chastised; then surely we must deal with those whom we know to be in sin in such a way as to try to bring them to repentance.
What then is impressed by Paul on Timothy (and us!) in dealing with false teachers is not designed to bring them to repentance as much as it is to preserve us from the error of their doctrine(s) in 1 Timothy 6:1-5. This tells us (1) the doctrine is set; (2) anyone teaching anything contrariwise is false; (3) we must remain “withdrawn” from them.
That said, “social networking” blurs this distinction by allowing false teachers to continue to have influence over their acolytes. However, this electronic media works both ways! That’s why I have posted my debate charts with two false teachers on our website to keep the “marked” and refute their unscriptural doctrines that divide churches of Christ. One of these advocates the false doctrine that church-funded benevolence is for “saints only” (http://doverchurchofchrist.info/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/RELIGIOUS-DISCUSSION-At-Northside-Church-of-Chri3.swf), the other advocates the false doctrine that brethren cannot eat meals in the church building (http://doverchurchofchrist.info/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/PolkDonahueDebate.swf).
This permits false teachers and their false doctrine(s) to be easily identified and refuted!
Thus, when “social media” continually keeps the error of their doctrine before them (which is why I post these links on my “Facebook” page), others may be warned, also.
God help us to maintain the Biblical lines clearly drawn by the Bible in our “postmodern” age! “Preach the word.”
John T. Polk II
Stevelucas 5:41 pm on March 8, 2012 Permalink |
Chris,
You are so spot on with your thoughts. If we do not engage those with whom we disagree, then before long we simply love those who love us and never know what are the concerns or issues of those who have yet to put on Christ. And oh yes, occasionally we learn a more perfect understanding of God’s Word which otherwise may never have been discovered.
Eugene Adkins 6:04 pm on March 8, 2012 Permalink |
Great questions, Richard.
This is something that I’ve thought about before. I believe that one can be a “friend” to someone without “fellowshipping” with them. For the most part I enjoy talking to others about things even when I do not agree with them biblically or socially. I think that’s all a part of our dialouge process…at least if we wish to have one.
Jesus definitely at with people that He did not agree with. While I know that a distinction can be made between “friending” someone and having a conversation with them, I also know that a person will never hear what you have to say if we always keep them at arms-length.
While there are no doubt exceptions to what I’ve said, I believe if a person can show themsleves friendly in the “real” world then they should be able to do the same in the “digital” one.
Just for clarification sake, I don’t have a face book account :)
J. Randal Matheny 5:05 am on March 9, 2012 Permalink |
I try to avoid the pushers, those who actively promote progressive doctrine. I don’t want to give them access to people. Others, I may befriend in hopes of influencing.
Eugene Adkins 6:58 am on March 9, 2012 Permalink |
I believe that would be one of my “exceptions” that I referred to, but I often take the chance to use it for a discussion without the use of the “like” button on the wordpress side of things.