"What Is Dying?"

I found the following statement quite interesting when thinking about the subject of dying. I hope you benfit from this reading.

What Is Dying?

I am standing upon the seashore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength and I stand and watch her until at length she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come down to mingle with each other. And then one at my side says: “THERE! She’s gone!”

Gone where? Gone from my sight – that’s all. She is just as large in mast and hull and spar as she was when she left my side, and just as able to bear her load of living freight to the place of destination. Her diminished size is in me, not in her; and just at the moment when someone at my side says, “There! She’s gone,” there are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout. “THERE! She comes!” And that is dying.

The Portales Teller, May 17, 1957 (Vol. 1, # 33). Albert McInroe, editor

“A Study Of Nehemiah 2:18”

Reading the book of Nehemiah will “fire up” and excite you. Reading this book will encourage us to stand up and do what is right in our community just as Nehemiah did for his people. Nehemiah is one of, if not the, most courageous Bible character, and his example will encourage us in our daily lives. His courage is apparent when we consider all the problems he had to overcome in his effort to lead the people to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. He did not “drive the people” into obedience, but patiently led them by word and example. His concern for the destroyed walls of Jerusalem motivated him to leave the courts of Artaxerxes, and face enemies and other challenges in order to accomplish his goal. He truly is a godly example for us (Rom. 15:4).

In the early part of the book of Nehemiah, we see him leaving his station as “the king’s cupbearer” (Neh. 1:11) and entering into Jerusalem to encourage the people and lead them in rebuilding Jerusalem’s wall. Bear in mind, that Nehemiah is no general, or holder of political power. He is just a man who, when he saw something needed to be done, “strengthened his hands” (a phrase repeated often in this book) to do the work, and went to it. In taking action, we find him in prayer often, and also being active in convincing the people that this project could be done. When starting this work, Nehemiah told the rulers of the city, “Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach. Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king’s words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work” (Neh. 2:17-18).

I’d like to examine a phrase from verse 18 that ought to encourage and motivate us to greater service in the Lord. This phrase is, “Let us rise up and build.” Let us study this phrase together.

“Let Us”
Please note that this phrase was stated by the rulers of the city to Nehemiah. In stating, “Let us rise up and build,” they were declaring that a united people would rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. It took a great man like Nehemiah to lead the people and motivate them, but Nehemiah could not rebuild the wall on his own! It took the combined efforts of each one doing the work necessary. Later on, we see that because of their efforts (Neh. 3-6) Jerusalem’s wall was finished in fifty-two days (6:15)!

In like manner, when the Lord’s work is to be done today, we need to be a united people. It does Christians in a local church no good to speak in terms of “them” and “their.” When it is concerning the local body of saints to which we are affiliated, we need to think and speak in terms of “we” and “our,” for “we” are all involved in the work!! “Let us” then be active and united in spreading God’s word, growing spiritually, and numerically, and in helping each other go to Heaven. This need for unity is made clear in the first letter to the Corinthians. There, we read, “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Cor. 1:10). Unity was not only needed among the Corinthians, but also among the Philippians (1:27, 2:2; etc.), and others. How much more is it needed today in the local church, when we, like those first century Christians, come from various backgrounds, and are different ages from one another? Yet, like those in Nehemiah’s time, WE can say, “Let us …”!


“Rise Up”
“Rise” is a verb which calls for action. The statement made by the rulers shows us that they were motivated and were ready to take action in order to rebuild Jerusalem’s wall. The degree of their commitment to this work is seen as the people worked, and finished the wall in fifty-two days. Their commitment is also seen when we read Nehemiah 2-6, and see them overcome enemies from without (2:19-20, 4:1-6, 11, 6:1-14), the fighting from within (ch. 5), as well as the actual toil and effort required in building (ch. 3, 4:10, 15-23, etc.), to accomplish the goal. The commitment to “rise up and build” resulted in a completed wall after years of it sitting in ruins (1:3).

In like manner, let us as Christians recognize that we need to “rise up” and put our hands to “the work of the Lord” (1 Cor. 15:58)! The Christian has much to do in service to God, but nothing will get done if we refuse to “rise”. No, we have no physical walls to build, but we do have a spiritual work to accomplish in building the house of God! In 1 Corinthians 15:58, we read, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” If this was the only passage we had, we would already be aware of the fact that a Christian has much to do in service to God! It is not enough for one to simply obey the Lord’s plan of salvation of believing on Him, repenting of sins, confessing Christ, and being baptized (Jn. 8:24; Acts 17:30; Rom. 10:10; Mk. 16:16). One must also “continue in my word” (Jn. 8:31), being “faithful unto death” (Rev. 2:10). We, like Paul, must fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith (2 Tim. 4:6-8); and this demands our “rising” to the occasion and being active in service to God.

Too often, we see Christians who wish for others to do their work. If the Jews had been like this, they would have not finished the walls. In like manner, when we look to others to do our work, then we will not accomplish what God wants done! In the first century, the apostles recognized the need for staying focused and doing the Lord’s will (Acts 6:2; 1 Cor. 9:16b; etc.). We need to recognize this same truth and be active. “Let us rise up ...”!

“And Build”
As “let us” shows their unity, and “rise up” shows their action; the phase “and build” shows us what they were going to do! Notice please that the Jews were not rising up to tear down even more! They were not rising up to kick Nehemiah out of town! They were going to “rise up” so that they could build! Building is a special work. I am reminded of the old poem about a young man who saw a crew tearing down a building. When he asked the foreman if they would also build, he said, “No”, for he had another crew to do that. His point was that anyone can tear something down, but it takes someone special to be able to build. In like manner, the Babylonian army tore down the wall of Jerusalem, and burned the gates, the Temple, and the palaces with fire (2 Chron. 36:19; Neh. 1:3, 2:17). These men, skilled with the ability to kill people and break things, were able to destroy much. Yet, when it came time to rebuild, the Babylonian army, Persian army, and others were not asked to help. Rather, it took this special group of people, under the leadership of Nehemiah, to rebuild the wall, the Temple, and the city. (Read: Ezra and Nehemiah for complete accounts of this.)

Can we see the parallel today when it comes to the spiritual work of God? We have a great and grave work ahead of us, and we need to be about it! Christ (our leader) needs folks who are committed to His work, and are ready to use skilled and strong hands in the work!

In studying the New Testament, we see that this “building up” takes place in a number of ways. For example, we need to be building one another up when we speak to them. This is evident when we read Ephesians 4:29. Paul wrote, “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” To “edify” in this text, means to build up! There is an expectation that we build our brethren up as we speak with them. To the Thessalonians, it is stated, “Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do” (1 Thess. 5:11). Thus, we see that we have the responsibility of building, or edifying one another as we live from day to day. Any idiot can tear down!! It takes someone special, like a child of God, to build up!! “Let us rise up and build”!

Conclusion
Think about it: If folks like Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah had not been interested in rebuilding Jerusalem, who would have taken the lead? If the Israelites didn’t build up the city, the wall and the Temple, who would have done it? Sure, someone may have built a city over Jerusalem, but no one would have rebuilt Jerusalem if the Lord’s people weren’t interested!

In like manner, if the Christians (spiritual Israel) do not build up the Lord’s church, who will?

“Let us rise up and build”!!

Selfishness On Display

A news report concerning the October issue of “Ms.” magazine caught my attention. According to the news, this upcoming issue will list 1,016 of the over 5,000 signatures of women who signed confessions saying that they took part in the murder of their children. Those who were interviewed justified the murder of their children by saying things like, “I wanted to do something bigger than myself — I didn’t want to be stopped by anything” (signatory Tyffine Jones, 27). Look again at her statement. Was she not stating clearly that she considers motherhood as something that is “less” than what she wanted to be? She was wanting to do something “bigger than herself” so she murdered her child, and has now confessed to the murder in “Ms.” magazine.

Debbie Findling, another signatory in “Ms.” confessed to killing her baby boy last year because he had Down’s Syndrome. She said, “I felt like it was my right to make the decision ….” Later, she added, “I don't regret my decision.” Debbie is a 42 year-old married woman who has plans for writing a book detailing her experiences in killing her baby boy. Currently, she has a 5 year-old girl, and is trying to get pregnant again. Her profession? She is a: philanthropic foundation executive!! (Think: brotherly love, or charitable work toward the needy) Perhaps after this article comes out, she will be fired for not living up to her profession! Certainly, she did something quite “un-philanthropic” (is that a word?) in killing her baby boy. Other murderers who signed confessions in “Ms.” magazine include: Gloria Steinem, Carol Leifer, Kathy Najimy, and Amy Brenneman.

Eleanor Smeal, the president of the Feminist Majority Foundation, which publishes “Ms.” magazine, said that this issue of the magazine was prompted by concern for how the Supreme Court might decide in the coming years relative to mothers killing their children; as well as legislation currently pending in South Dakota where the citizens could vote to have murder outlawed completely in their state. Eleanor is displeased at the possibilities, and in fact, said, “All this seems very dire.” She went on to say, “We have to get away from what the politicians are saying, and get women’s lives back in the picture.” What is left unsaid by Eleanor is: “...Unless these women are killing their daughters, for in those cases, the female child needs to have her voice silenced, too …. That is, unless her mother wants her to live.”

The news report goes on to say that the 5000+ total signatures in “Ms.” magazine will be sent in a petition to Congress, the White House, and state legislators. The reason is not stated, but perhaps the purpose of sending such a petition is so that our country’s legislators and leaders will have the signed confessions of murderers in their hands, so they can see just how many women in this country have little or no respect for human life.

Friends, let us open our eyes to the actions of the world and make sure we do not get caught up in such sin, nor have our children think that this is justified behavior! Paul wrote, “be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom. 12:2). Let us strive to act and live like Christ in all things (Col. 3:17; I Pet. 4:11)!


Selfishness And Murder Often Walk Hand-In-Hand
No, not every selfish person will commit murder. However, “Ms.” magazine has cataloged over 5,000 examples of selfish people who did! Pay careful attention to those who speak of their “right” to take the life of their own child. They must have given themselves the “right” through their selfishness, for God certainly gave no man or woman the right to kill innocent children. I believe such people as are glamorized in this magazine are close relatives to those folks mentioned in Romans 1, whom God said were “without natural affection” and “did not like to retain God in their knowledge” (Rom. 1:31, 28).

At the very least, the October issue of “Ms.” is nothing more than selfishness on display. The women who signed those confessions, and consented to interviews, are declaring their “freedom,” “rights,” etc., to kill their children! How messed up can we be? Sadly, while many women get to confess their crimes in this issue of “Ms.” there is no one speaking up for the dead children! What a tragedy, and how appalling that our nation would have a magazine which defends and promotes selfishness and murder.

“Abortion” = Murder
Some may wonder why I used the term “murder” consistently in the above section, rather than the politically correct term, “abortion.” First, I wrote “murder” because that is what it is. “Abortion” of children is “aborting”, or stopping the pregnancy. Of course, the only way one can “stop” a pregnancy is to deliver the child, living or dead. Yes, there is such a thing as a miscarriage, but those 5000+ women did not sign their names to having miscarriages! They signed their names in confession to actively and willfully stopping their pregnancy by killing their child and delivering a dead baby. Their active pursuit of a child’s death constitutes murder. This is why I wrote “murder” in the above section.

Calling the active and willful taking of a baby’s life “murder” is not unique with me. When we read the Bible, we see God’s view of unborn children. He considers these children just that: human, living, children! We see this in Old Testament days when God spoke to Rebekah, telling her that she was carrying “twins in her womb” (Gen. 21:23-24). She delivered twin boys, the Bible says, that would become fathers of two nations (Gen. 21:26-27, 23). We see God’s attitude toward the unborn children when He proclaimed the death penalty for someone responsible for the death of the unborn child (Ex. 21:12-22). David, the sweet psalmist of Israel, wrote by inspiration that God knew him even before he was born (Ps. 139:15-16). Jeremiah said a similar thing in relation to God knowing him before birth (Jer. 1:5). Solomon wrote that God hates “hands that shed innocent blood” (Prov. 6:17). Can we find anything on earth more innocent than an unborn child? Such passages show us that the unborn babies are alive, human children. Therefore, we need to respect their lives!

When we study the New Testament, we see Luke, a physician inspired of God, wrote about a baby in the womb (Lk. 1:41-44). The words chosen are significant, for he did not call this child “unviable tissue mass” or something akin to that. The original word Luke used was a term specifically used to describe a baby, an infant, or a child! Luke used this term to describe the child Elizabeth was carrying within her (Lk. 1:41). Soon after, her cousin Mary would be pregnant, and Luke used the same word to describe the unborn Christ-child (Lk. 1:26-38; ch. 2)!

Another reason I chose the word “murder” is because the word “abortion” just “white-washes” what has actually taken place. It helps to soothe a bothered conscience when we say “abortion” instead of “murder.” If you are not sure about this, just say the word “abortion” aloud. Then say “murder”. One word actually makes you feel different, doesn’t it? That’s the point! It is high time we felt the concern, worry, and even anger at the sin of murdering one’s own offspring. Let us raise our children up to understand that there is no excuse or reason for murdering their children — in or out of the womb!!

Conclusion
The practice of killing the unborn is not the only example of selfishness on display. We could speak of sodomy (Rom. 1:26-27; I Cor. 6:9-10; etc.), drinking, drug use, and numerous other things. However, it is the murdering of the unborn that is the topic in the magazine, so we include it here to compare that practice and those women’s attitudes with what the Bible says.

In conclusion to our study, let us also understand that folks engaged in such a selfish sin can be forgiven. Christ said that all people can be forgiven through Him. He died for all (Matt. 20:28; II Cor. 5:15; I Jn. 2:2). However, in order to be forgiven of this sin, or of any sin, it demands our faith in Christ (Jn. 8:32; Heb. 11:6), repentance of sin (not staying in sin, Lk. 13:3; Acts 17:30), confessing Christ (Rom. 10:10; Acts 8:37), and being baptized for the remission of sins (Mk. 16:16; Acts 2:38, 22:16). If anyone who has ever been responsible for the death of her child reads this article, I hope she understands the sin that has occurred, and then will turn to Christ for forgiveness. One doing such, is not a selfish person, but has humbly sought forgiveness at the Master’s feet, and the Bible says she will get it! All those who signed the confession in “Ms.” can have forgiveness, too if they will follow the Lord’s plan.

Christ Is Better
The book of Hebrews is a book I enjoy reading and studying. One main thought found within the book of Hebrews is that Christ is “better.” As we read the epistle to the Hebrew Christians, we see that this book is written to keep those Christians from returning to the practices of the old law (Heb. 6:4-6; etc.). These folks had a unique problem, in that they were not only persecuted by Rome for being Christians; but they were also persecuted by their families and fellow Jews for renouncing Judaism! Therefore, this book encourages them to remain faithful to the end by showing how Christ and their relationship to Him is better than anything else (Heb. 3:14, 10:32-39).

He Is Better Than Angels
As we read the book of Hebrews, we find that one way in which these people were encouraged to continue in faithfulness was by showing them that as Christians, when they forsook family and friends to follow Christ (Matt. 10:34-39), they were following One not only better than any man; but One better than angels! Therefore, the book of Hebrews begins by stating that Christ is “so much better than the angels” (Heb. 1:4). God had not fulfilled His plan of salvation through an angel or a plurality of angels, but through One even “better” than angels — Christ (Jn. 3:16; Heb. 1:2-4)!

He Is Better Than Moses
In Hebrews, we find Christ contrasted with Moses. In fact, Jesus is better than Moses (“worthy of more glory than Moses,” 3:3). Yet, while Moses was a “faithful servant” in God’s house, we see Jesus described as “a son over his own house” (Heb. 3:5-6). In fact, Jesus made the point of telling people that Moses wrote of Him (Jn. 5:46-47) and they needed to “search the scriptures” in order to find out this truth (Jn. 5:39). In the Hebrew letter, we see that Jesus is in fact better than Moses in many ways. This will be made clearer as we continue our study.

He Has A Better Priesthood Than Aaron’s
In chapter five, Christ is contrasted with Aaron. At this time, we are shown how Christ’s priesthood is a better priesthood than Aaron’s. In contrast with Aaron who was born into the family of Levi and became a high priest, Jesus’ priesthood is an everlasting priesthood “after the order of Melchizedek” (Heb. 5:6, 10, 6:20, 7:17, 21). The explanation of Christ’s priesthood continues into the seventh chapter of Hebrews. In chapter five, though, we are reminded of the incident in Genesis 14 where after the battle of the kings and the rescue of Lot, Abraham gave tithes to Melchizedek (Gen. 14:20). In Hebrews 7, the Holy Spirit notes how the Levites received tithes of the people (7:5). Yet, in Genesis 14, it was Abraham (Levi’s great-grandfather) who gave tithes to Melchizedek (Heb. 7:6)! God made the point that due to Abraham paying tithes to Melchizedek, by extension, it was also Levi paying tithes to Melchizedek (7:9-10). So, for Jesus to be a “priest forever after the order of Melchizedek” actually gives Him a “better” priesthood, for “the less is blessed of the better” (7:7). This was also a better priesthood than Aaron’s, for Christ was made a priest by God’s oath; whereas the Levites became priests without an oath (7:20-21). Christ could not be a priest on earth, for He was of the tribe of Judah (Heb. 7:14). Yet, God was able through a change of the law, to make Him a better priest with an unchangeable priesthood!

He Gives A Better Hope
Within Hebrews 7, we also read of the “better hope” in Christ (7:19). That verse shows us that the Law of Moses could not provide for a “better hope,” but Jesus could! Through this “better hope,” folks are then able to “draw nigh to God”! This becomes yet one more reason for the Hebrew people to continue in their service and faithfulness to Christ. If they tried to return to the Old Law, they would have no access to that better hope, for it is only found in Christ! For this same reason, James is able to write to Christians and tell them, “draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you...” (Jas. 4:8). When Christ brought a “better hope,” men were then able to “draw nigh to God”!

He Has A Better Testament
Another “better” thing found in Hebrews 7 is that in Christ, we have a “better testament” (7:22). This is repeated in Hebrews 8:6 and said that Christ is “the mediator of a better covenant established upon better promises”! What a beautiful thought! The new covenant that Christ brought into being is actually better than the previous covenant; and those of us living after Christ’s crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension can take full advantage of this “better covenant”!

He Offered Better Sacrifices
While continuing to convince the Hebrew Christians to remain faithful to the Lord, they were also reminded of the “better sacrifices” offered in Christ. In Old Testament days, sacrifices of bulls, goats, turtledoves, sheep, etc., were offered to God. Blood from sacrificial animals was sprinkled for the people, for “almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission” (Heb. 9:22). Yet, Christ offered “better sacrifices”! In this case, our high priest became the sacrifice for sins (Heb. 9:14, 26). He offered Himself once and for all (Heb. 10:10, 12), and applied His blood in Heaven for us (Heb. 9:24, 10:19). Hebrews 12:24 says Christ’s blood “speaks better things than that of Abel”! Truly, His sacrifice became the better sacrifice by which we can obtain salvation and look forward to Heaven when this life is over!

He Gives A Better And Enduring Substance
This is the promise to all the redeemed! Read Hebrews 10:34, and realize that in context, these people had suffered much for Christ. They had “endured a great fight of affliction”, “were made a gazingstock”, “became companions of them that were so used”, and “took joyfully the spoiling of your goods” (Heb. 10:32-34). Yet, as bad as this was, they were encouraged to continue in Christ, for in Him, there is a “better and enduring substance” awaiting them. He continues by saying they had “great recompence of reward” (Heb. 10:35). What encouragement! Such things ought to have helped them see past the terrible, but momentary problems in this life and focus upon Heaven. Hebrews 11 says that it was to Heaven, the “better country”, that those great faith heroes looked while they endured hardships and suffered (Heb. 11:16). The same words of encouragement given to the Hebrews ought to encourage us. As Jesus said, “he that endureth to the end shall be saved” (Matt. 10:22). This promise is made not only to the Jewish Christians, but to anyone who belongs to Christ! Therefore, let us be ready to endure our problems and temptations, and remember, “where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matt. 6:19-21). The apostle Peter also wrote about this, telling Christians that they have, “an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in Heaven for you” (I Pet. 1:4). Truly, it is a “better and enduring substance” that awaits the child of God in eternity!

He Promised A Better Resurrection
Continuing to read in Hebrews 11, we find some folks who truly suffered terrible tortures for God. In their suffering, we see folks who did not flinch, nor try to run from the pain and suffering. Rather, “... others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection” (Heb. 11:35). This passage touches my heart in many ways. Notice that there were folks who endured trial and tortures, including death, because they knew there was a “better resurrection” to come. Friends, can we understand that because of Christ, those who have obeyed His plan of salvation can also look forward to that “better resurrection”?!? There is something far better than being released from a prison cell, or even from a torturer’s whip. At most, all those people can do is kill you (Matt. 10:28). There is a better resurrection to come. Jesus guaranteed that it is going to happen one day (I Cor. 15:20-24).

He Is The Better Thing
Don’t forget to read Hebrews 11:40! The “better thing” of this passage ties together the above passages we have studied, and prepares us for the description of Christ in Hebrews 12:1-2!!

Conclusion
Based upon this study, can we see why it was so important that the Jewish Christians remained faithful to God? Friend, remember that Christ needs to be the focus of all we do! We Christians are recipients of these blessings in Christ. Can you think of anything “better” than being a Christian? I can’t!

Samuel Johnson's Quote

The following is a quote I like. Don't know anything about the author, but giving credit where credit is due, I am letting you know Sam Johnson wrote it. He said...

"The fountain of contentment must spring up in the mind. He who hath so little knowledge of human nature as to seek happiness by changing anything but his own disposition, will waste his life in fruitless efforts and multiply the grief he proposes to remove."

In other words, the only way we will be content is when we spend time trying to improve ourselves, instead of trying to change everyone else! Sounds like a good "life-lesson" to me. Trying to change everyone else just makes you miserable.

“Longing For God’s Word”


Psalm 119:20 and 40 state very interesting thoughts that I think are worth studying. In verse 20 we read, “My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times.” Verse 40 says, “Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in thy righteousness.”

Go back and read these verses again, for they reveal much. Notice that David did not merely say he longed for God’s word. He longed for it “at all times” (v. 20). This verse is similar to Psalm 1:2 which tells us that the wise man meditates upon God’s word “day and night”! Verse 40 says he recognizes that it is God’s word that has life-giving (“quickening”) power. On seven other occasions in Psalm 119 alone, David repeats his praise for the life-giving power of God’s word.

As I read those statements, I thought about myself. Can I say that I truly long for God’s word? Can I say that my soul breaks for longing for His word, and that I want to hear it “at all times”? Friends, do we see what a high priority David placed upon God’s word? What priority do we give God’s word? Within the Bible, we find the instructions for salvation from sin (i.e., new life). We also find sustaining power within the Scripture, for the Bible is our soul’s sustenance (I Pet. 2:2; Heb. 5:14).

In our society, we recognize our dependence upon food. We know that eating a proper diet has life-sustaining power for our bodies. But, are we ready to admit that the Bible has life-giving and sustaining power for our souls? David, the king of Israel, recognized it! Though a mighty king, a great warrior, and though he had power over a nation, he readily confessed his dependence upon the word of God. Jesus stated this as well when He said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matt. 4:4). How much more ought we confess such when we understand that we are in need of that life-sustaining power today?

When we appreciate God’s word the way David did, we will not want to hear the experiences, philosophies, and creeds of men. We will only want to hear the pure, unadulterated, complete, and simple word of God (Acts 10:33). We will readily say as Paul did, “Preach the word” (II Tim. 4:2)!! When we humble ourselves as David, we will understand the words of Job who said, “I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food” (Job 23:12). Let us read the Bible again “for the first time” and glean the blessings!

The Adoption Of Sons

I have had the privilege to witness families adopt precious children into their families. How wonderful this is. No doubt you know folks who have adopted children in times past, and have been witnesses to their joy upon the completion of the adoption process. These parents now have a child that is “theirs.” We certainly rejoice in such actions, and pray God’s blessings on those families who adopt children and want to “bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4). Adoption is a special situation that ought to make those who have been adopted feel loved and needed. Why say this?

1) No child who is adopted into a family could be said to have been “unwanted.”

2) The adopted child was specifically chosen by the adoptive parents.
a) In some cases, the children to be adopted are old enough to make their choice known that they wish to have Mr. and Mrs. “X” as parents. Therefore, in some cases, not only have the parents chosen their child, but the child chose the parents!

3) Regardless of what the child’s surname might have been before the adoption, after the adoption, that child takes his/her new parents’ name.

4) This adopted child now has rights and an inheritance in the family just like what would be enjoyed by a “biological” child.

As I thought about parents who adopt children, I thought about how when one becomes a Christian, the New Testament compares that to an adoption. For example, Paul said that Christ came to this world in “the fulness of time” with a purpose: “to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons” (Gal. 4:4-5). Paul wrote to the Roman Christians and said, “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father” (Rom. 8:15). Not only do we read about “adoption” in Galatians 4 and Romans 8, but also Romans 9, and Ephesians 1. The word “adoption” as is used in the KJV means basically what we would think it means: “the placing as a son, i.e. adoption (figuratively, Christian sonship in respect to God)” (Strong’s). Some Bible versions use the terms: “sonship,” or “the place of a son,” in addition to “adoption.” This certainly gets the point across when “adoption” is equated to “the place of a son!” From these passages, we see that those who are Christians are considered “adopted children” of God. Why might this be so? It is because there is only one who is called the “only begotten” son of God, and that is Christ (Jn. 3:16)!

In thinking about adoption, can we see how spiritual adoption and physical adoption are similar? I believe I see several similarities.

1) Every child of God is “wanted.” Anyone who has become a Christian did not do so without God’s (as well as their own) consent! Anyone who will become a child of God had to hear God’s word, believe it, repent of sins, confess Christ, and be baptized (Rom. 10:17; Mk. 16:16; Acts 2:38; Rom. 10:10; I Pet. 3:21). When one did this, the Bible said they were saved by (God’s) grace, through faith (Eph. 2:8-9; Titus 2:11-12). God wants all men saved from sins (II Pet. 3:9; I Tim. 2:4), and added to the Lord’s body (Acts 2:47).

2) Every one who would be a Christian is chosen by God, and every one who would be a Christian chooses God. This point varies somewhat from a physical adoption because when folks adopt an infant, that infant did not “choose,” like an older child might have. Yet, for each Christian, he/she is old enough to make that decision. We see God’s choice in the matter when we learn of God’s plan for redeeming man by sending His Son to die for us (Gen. 3:15; Isa. 53; Jn. 3:16; etc.). The salvation of both Jews and Gentiles was in God’s “eternal purpose” (Eph. 3:11)! Seeing God has done all He is going to do to save us, it is then up to each individual to choose to respond to God’s plan in love and obedience (Jn. 14:15). When we make this choice, we are going to be a part of God’s family, His “adopted sons.”

3) Every child of God takes on His name. In Acts 11:26, we read, “...and the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.” This verse is a fulfillment of a prophecy spoken by Isaiah. Some 700 years before Christ came to this earth, God said, “Even unto them will I give in mine house and within my walls a place and a name better than of sons and of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off” (Isa. 56:5). Later in the book of Isaiah, it is said, “And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory: and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the LORD shall name” (Isa. 62:2). The third passage stating this fact is found in Isaiah 65:15. All of these prophecies show that the “name” the disciples were called (Christians) was a name given by divine inspiration!

Therefore, when one is baptized for the remission of sins, that person becomes a Christian (Acts 11:26; I Pet. 4:16). If someone wishes to be called by another name, then we know that this person is not a child of God! What would we think if an adopted child so loved by adoptive parents, and so cared for by them would not take their name? What ingratitude! How much more is this the case when folks claim to be God’s children, but take the names of men (Wesleyan, Lutheran, etc.), of practices (Baptist, Methodist, etc.), of systems (Orthodox, etc.), of days (Pentecostal, etc.), instead of taking the name of Christ!

4) Every child of God has rights and a spiritual inheritance with God. If you are not sure about this, please read what Paul said in Romans 8:17. “And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” A similar statement is made in Galatians 4:7 as well. In fact, when Christ spoke to Paul on the road to Damascus, He said one of Paul’s responsibility was to “open (the Gentiles’) eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me” (Acts 26:18).

A Christian’s blessings of prayer (I Thess. 5:17), of fellowship with God and Christ (II Jn. 9), of having an advocate (I Jn. 2:1), of fellowship with saints, of being “more than conquerors” (Rom. 8:37), of having redemption from sins, of having an “inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven...” (I Pet. 1:4) etc., is all due to the fact that we are adopted children of God. All of these great blessings, privileges, and this great inheritance belongs to all of those in God’s family, and belongs to none of those outside of God’s family!

Conclusion

What a great blessing it is when one can be a child of God. May we never take this privilege for granted, but show our gratitude to God for all He has done to make our salvation possible. One becoming a Christian is a great change in his life. Just as one who is physically adopted into a family changes his/her “family tree,” so is this true with those who are Christians. They are no longer in the kingdom of darkness, but in the kingdom of His dear son (Col. 1:13). No longer is a Christian a servant to sin, but a servant to God (Rom. 6:16-18).

Are you a child of God? If not, why not? If you are a Christian, does this not give you a greater appreciation for God?

The Story Of Mike Brown's Conversion

On April 12, 2006, I was first introduced to Mike Brown. Our brother Dale Barnes (currently preaching in Caneyville, KY) had known him for over 10 years, as Mike worked at his deer processing plant in those years. Dale asked me to go with him and to talk with Mike about being baptized because he recently discovered he had cancer (severe), and Dale thought such a visit would get him to thinking about his soul.

We went to Mike’s house around 10:00 a.m. and talked with this kind soul, who was already feeling the effects of cancer. He was thin, and already having “good and bad days,” but this day was a good one (and soon to get better). I met one of Mike’s sisters and after exchanging pleasantries (including learning that we HAD BEEN TO HIS HOUSE IN NOVEMBER, when we passed through inviting people in the neighborhood to church), Dale began to speak. As Dale led the conversation, he asked Mike about his conversion and if he had ever been baptized for the remission of sins. Mike said, “No,” and Dale continued. He read from Mark 16:16 (“He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.”), Acts 2:38 (“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”), then Acts 22:16 (“And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”), and I Peter 3:21 (“The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ”). He wove those verses together, showing how they all pointed to the necessity of being baptized for the remission of sins if he wanted to go to Heaven.

As he continued, Dale asked Mike if he’d be interested in being baptized, and Mike said “Yes.” Dale asked, “When?” and Mike said, “Now!” When asked, “Why?” He said to be forgiven of his sins. Based upon what we had discussed, such questions and answers showed Dale, and me that Mike knew what he was doing and was ready.

His sister stopped us to ask if we thought we should call someone from the Bellevue Baptist church, and Dale answered, “No. This is Mike’s decision, and not theirs. If Mike wants to be baptized, then we will go right now.” Mike again consented, and we all headed over to the church building. Yes, this was a “good day” health-wise for Mike, and was going to get better. Before leaving, we called for Don Barnes to come with us, and he was there in a moment, ready to assist in any way he could.
Upon entering the church building, we talked for a moment and then we discussed who would do the baptizing. I deferred to Dale, but Dale insisted that I do it. We talked some more, and then asked Mike to make the “Good Confession” before his baptism (The confession of one’s faith: “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God”, Acts 8:36-38; Matt. 16:16; Rom. 10:10). Then Mike changed into another garment so he would have dry clothes to wear home, and I put on the waders in preparation for following the Bible pattern where he would be baptized (immersed in water) so his sins would be forgiven. In a few moments, I baptized Mike into Christ for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38). According to Scripture, he was added to the Lord’s church at that time (Acts 2:41, 47). Before leaving, Don Barnes led a prayer, and then Mike went home, exhausted and happy.

I made a point to see him on Friday (April 14), and he was sitting outside on his porch swing. He was having a good day again, and commented upon how great he felt and how happy he was. He was glad for his baptism, and was glowing as I looked upon him that day. As we talked, I learned that Mike had had a visitor Wednesday evening following his baptism. A Catholic priest stopped by to visit, and upon telling him about his baptism that day, the priest basically said it was fine for him to do, but it wasn’t necessary. Mike said that it was necessary, and referred him to the very passages that Dale had cited earlier in the day. The priest said no more! We talked some more on that Friday, and he told me his plans for being with us in the worship services that following Sunday (April 16).

Sadly, Mike would never gather with the saints on earth. His health began to quickly deteriorate. I came to visit him at different times, and to pray with him. One day in April Mike made the point of telling me that he had subscribed to cable just so he could watch our television program (channel 52). He knew he could not assemble with the saints due to his failing health, but also knew he could sit and study from God’s word a few nights a week as he watched the program. At different times in the following days, we talked of the day he was baptized, including the final Sunday I saw him alive (May 14, 2006). By this time, Mike was emaciated, but told me he was “ready to go.” His girlfriend was present, and I told him (in front of her) how I also knew he was ready, and then recounted the story of the day of his conversion on April 12. He said, “Yes, Yes” in agreement at times, and I then led a prayer before I left. He died on Friday, May 19, 2006, at 3 a.m.

I was asked to speak at the graveside service on Monday, May 22, and told the story of his conversion to those present. They were mostly Baptist people, satisfied that Mike was “saved” at the point of faith alone some 10+ years ago. At the graveside, I recounted the events of April 12, 2006, quoting the passages Dale used concerning baptism, and showed “why” Mike had hope, and that it was due to his following what the Lord said and being baptized for the remission of sins. I concluded by going back to Ecclesiastes and the words of the wise man, “Fear God and keep his commandments … this is the whole duty of man” (Ecc. 12:13).

I did not know Mike for very long, but feel blessed for the time I had with him. This experience has taught me the need for getting to folks and teaching them the truth while we have the chance!! If we had been a week later, perhaps Mike wouldn’t have been baptized – due to health reasons – too weak to move, etc. This is my motivation for talking with folks and trying to win more folks for the Lord before it is too late – for me or for them (II Cor. 6:2, “...behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”)!!!

Why the title "The Old Paths"?

"The Old Paths" is a title that has been near and dear to my heart from some time. It comes from Jeremiah 6:16 where the prophet said, "Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein." I have used this title for the bulletins I have written for better than 12 years, and thought this would be a good title for the "blog" I am starting. I hope this work will help point folks back to the Bible and back to "the old paths" established by God. I hope this work will be encouraging, challenging, and be used to give God the glory and lead folks to Him.