"I MADE A PROMISE!"    back to topics

Many years ago we were in the midst of a Bible School attendance drive. I visited a nearby home where there was a third grade girl. I asked her if she would be in Bible School next Sunday morning. She replied, "I have to be. I made a promise!"

Somewhere this child had picked up on the idea that one must keep his promises. How refreshing!

There is an old saying about "a man's word as good as his bond.' It should be that way but likely never has been.

Recall the story about Jesus and his disciples on the night of his betrayal. He said they would all forsake him.

"Peter answered and said unto him, If all shall be offended in thee, I will never be offended. Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, that this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. Peter saith unto him, Even if I must die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples." Matthew 26:33-35.

Likewise also said all the disciples. Yes, they all made a promise! They promised their loyalty, their courage, and their determination to go with Jesus through danger and even death, if need be.

They made a promise when feeling was high and emotions were strong. No doubt but that each was sincere in his promise. In the shelter of the upper room, in the solemnity of the Passover feast, in the strength of Jesus' example of love and humility, each found courage to make his promise.

"Promises are easier made than kept." How true. When the disciples found themselves surrounded by a bloodthirsty mob in the darkness of the garden, their courage failed them. 'They all forsook him and fled." Jesus was the same friend and the disciples were the same men but circumstances had changed.

What about your promise to the Lord? Did you promise to be faithful, obedient to every command? Did you mean to be faithful in your attendance in worship and active in his church?

Remember how clean and pure you felt when you became a Christian? You made a promise. Be faithful in keeping it.

      IDENTIFYING THE CHURCH     back to topics

It is not enough to know that church makes a difference. Nor is it enough to know that which church makes a difference. Knowing those two things make it very important that we know how to identify that church which does make a difference. I believe the Bible makes it clear as to how we can tell when a church is a truly New Testament church.

I have friends who sincerely believe it is impossible to have a New Testament church today. We can have it today just like they did when the church first began. We hear what they heard. We believe what they believed. We do what they did. It will make us what it made them!

A New Testament church will have these identifying marks:

1. Right builder. Christ said, "I will build my church." Matt. 16;18.

If a church was started by John the Baptist, John Calvin, John Knox, John Wesley, Martin Luther or Alexander Campbell, it is not the church of the New Testament.

2. It started at the right time. The church is the kingdom, Matt. 16;18-20. The kingdom came when the Holy Spirit was given, Mark 9:1. The Holy Spirit was given on Pentecost, Acts 1:6;2:1-4. Modern churches can trace their beginning and it is not Pentecost!

3. Its members will wear the right name. That alone does not certify an identity. You could put "Cadillac" on a Ford automobile and it would still be a Ford. However, God=s people will wear a scriptural name. See Romans 16:16. As individuals, they were called "Christian", Acts 11:26; 1 Peter 4:16.

4. Organization. Some churches have earthly headquarters, organized by districts, synods, dioceses, etc. Churches in the New Testament were strictly independent of each other, each governed by its elders (1 Tim. 3. Titus 1). There were no denominational ties.

5. Terms of Membership. They heard the gospel, repented of their sins, confessed the name of Jesus and were baptized for remissions of sins. They were at once added to the church. If you do this, so will you be.

The New World Dictionary defines ‘Immaculate Conception’ as, the doctrine that the Virgin Mary, though conceived naturally, was from the moment of conception free from any stain of original sin; sometimes confused with Virgin Birth. This doctrine is not that Mary immaculately conceived Jesus, but, that Anna, Mary’s mother, immaculately conceived Mary.

To understand this doctrine, one must first understand the doctrine of Original Sin. That is the idea that all descendants of Adam are born into this world contaminated by the sin of Adam. It also teaches that God’s Spirit must work a work of grace in the heart to remove the guilt of Original Sin before one can even believe the gospel. But, what does that have to to do with Mary?

Since Jesus Christ was born in the flesh, how did he escape inheriting Original Sin? Their solution is simple: Mary never inherited Original Sin to pass it on to Jesus! But, Mary was born in the flesh. How did she escape Original Sin? This is where the doctrine of Immaculate Conception comes in. Again the answer is simple: her conception was immaculate!

Where does this parody end? How did Mary’s mother manage to escape Original Sin, and her mother, and grandmother . . . . all the way back to Eve! Their answers just prompt more questions.

The truth of the matter is this: the doctrine of Original Sin is false. It is nowhere taught in scripture. Was there an original sin, a first sin? Of course there was. Was it inherited by the descendants of Adam? No. Let those who teach this give us the word of God for it.

God decreed, "The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, neither shall the children be put to death for the fathers: every man shall be put to death for his own sin." Deut. 24:16. Also, "The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son." Ezek. 18;20.

Man is born having done neither good nor evil, Rom. 9:11.

      IS THE BIBLE SUFFICIENT?     back to topics

The past two weeks we have examined some of the false claims of Mormonism, one being that the Bible as we know it is not the complete word of God. They believe that the Book of Mormon stands on an equal footing with the Bible. Others, as the church of Rome, believe that oral tradition is even more important than the writings found in Holy Scripture.

Does the Bible claim for itself that it is completely sufficient as a guide for mankind?

2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." "Scripture" means that which is written, not just spoken. Notice that what is written will make the man of God complete. How much more does one need than that? Also, that which is written (scripture) will thoroughly furnish the man of God unto all good works. Every good work is taught in the Bible.

"But," one objects, "much of what was delivered to people was given orally." That is true. But it was given by inspired men. No man has a right to speak for God on his own. Read 2 Peter 1:20-21, "No prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit." Notice that what was scripture to be read was first spoken by men who were moved by the Holy Spirit.

Political correctness has made a great effort to give Islam the appearance of being a peaceful religion. Very few in high places have the courage to tell it like it is. Cal Thomas had a most discerning and revealing column in The Daily Oklahoman on Wednesday, October 14, 2001. It should be read by all Americans.

Franklin Graham, son of the famous Billy Graham, had the courage to speak up and is receiving flack from those in high political circles.

What does history reveal about Islam and peace?

In 620 A.D., Mohammed claimed to have a vision from heaven. He began the Koran, the bible of the Muslims.

In 624 A.D., they conquered and expelled a Jewish tribe.

In 627 they exterminated another Jewish tribe. In 629, all the Jews of Khaybar were killed.

Three centuries witnessed Moslem wars as they swept over Arabia, North Africa, the Middle East, Turkey, Cyprus, Spain, Portugal, Mesopotamia and Rhodes.

Were these atrocities in keeping with the teachings of the Koran? Notice these quotes:

"Believers, make war on the infidels [that is anyone who does not believe and accept Mohammed as God’s prophet] who dwell around you." 9:123.

"The unbelievers are your sworn enemies . . . Seek out your enemies relentlessly." 4:101, 104.

"Mohammed is Allah’s apostle. Those who follow him are ruthless to the unbelievers but merciful to one another." 48:29.

      IT’S FRIDAY, BUT SUNDAY’S COMING     back to topics

When Jesus was crucified, it was a dark, dark Friday, both literally and figuratively. For three hours the sun refused to shine. It seemed as if nature itself was too ashamed to behold humanity’s inhumanity to the Son of God. It was a dark day for the disciples. All their hopes that Jesus was the Messiah seemed dashed to the earth. They thought it was over.

Earlier, Jesus told the disciples that he would die and be raised again the third day. Peter said, "Lord, it will never happen!" Jesus rebuked him by saying, "Get behind me, Satan." What now seems so clear to us was an absolute enigma to his disciples. We generally do not hear what we do not want to hear.

But that terrible Friday (or Wednesday or Thursday as some would have it) was not here to stay. The first day of the week was coming. We call it Sunday. "Easter" is not resurrection day; the first day of the week is resurrection day. Disciples did not commemorate his resurrection annually but weekly. Disciples came together on the first day of the week to break bread, Acts 20:7. Jesus had said, "This do in remembrance of me." Luke 22:19.

All the gloom and despair of the disciples was replaced with joy and celebration by the resurrection of Jesus. It was a dark and dreary Friday; it was a bright and glorious Sunday!

We all have our Fridays in life. Bitter disappointments and tears are the lot of us all, at times. But they are not here to stay. If you are in Christ, you can bear anything. Phil. 4:13. Friday may indeed be here, but, thank God Sunday is coming! It will not always be gloom and despair. There is hope before us. Joy awaits.

Do not nurse the hurts and disappointments of the past. Even if no relief comes in this life, "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life." Rev. 2:10.

The greatest "Sunday" of all will be our glorious resurrection when we will see our Savior face to face and be made like him, for we shall see him as he is. 1 John 3:2. Are you ready for that "Sunday"?

     JESUS' GREATEST DESIRE     back to topics

One of the most prominent teachings of the New Testament is that we should imitate Jesus in our daily lives. Paul had so absorbed this idea that he could say, "I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me." Gal. 2:20.

He told the same people that when they entered into union with Christ "as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ." Gal. 3:27. It is as if our whole being is clothed with Christ.

We can never truly be like Christ until his attitudes and his way of life become ours. One of his most important attitudes was manifested on the night of his betrayal and shortly before his crucifixion the next day.

Christ had gone to the garden of Gethsemane with his disciples. He went there to pray. He asked Peter, James and John to watch and pray with him while he went a little further to pray alone. Three times our Lord passionately prayed that "if possible, let this cup pass from me.' Whatever ordeal he had in mind, it was causing him great anguish of soul. His sweat was like great drops of blood. He said, "My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death." Mark 14:34. One cannot read this sad story without knowing that Jesus wanted so much to be spared from "this cup'. However, as much as he desired this, there was something else that he desired even more. He also prayed, 'O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done." Matthew 26:42.

This is in perfect keeping with what Christ taught his disciples to pray. "Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven." Matthew 6:10. He lived what he taught others to do.

Think how this would revolutionize churches if everyone who claims to be a Christian would place the will of God above his own desires and will. When it comes to salvation, men have their ideas of what will save sinners. When it comes to worship, men have their own wishes as to what worship should be like. It would be wonderful if we would simply say, "Not my will, but thine be done" and then do it! But, how can we know what the will of God is in any particular matter? There is only one way to know. Go to the Bible, the word of God, and follow its teachings.

     JUDGING OTHERS     back to topics

If you are ever inclined to point out error, you will likely be confronted with a quote from the Lord, "Judge not, that you be not judged." That statement was made by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, Matt. 7:1. Most people do not bother to read the rest of his message. He did not forbid us from trying to help others by making needed corrections.

Jesus immediately said that before trying to get a small speck out of another=s eye, first remove the large object from your own eye so that you can see clearly to remove the speck from your brother=s eye. He does want you to get the speck out. He wants you to do something else first!

People often tell me, "I never criticize another person's religion. I don't believe in that." They need to read the story of the ministry of Jesus. He often said, "Woe unto you Pharisees and scribes." Why do you think his own nation put him to death? They hated him because he exposed their hypocrisy. Read the life story of the apostle Paul. It is hard to imagine the persecutions he endured. Every one of them was brought on him because of what he preached.

It must never be our aim to antagonize people. We need to preach the gospel in love. Our manner must not be offensive. If the message itself is offensive, I cannot apologize for the word of God. The gospel itself is offensive to those who reject it. I do not need to add insults of my own.

I am no man=s judge, nor do I wish to be. However, I know what the Bible says men must do to be saved and I know many people who have never done what the word of God teaches us to do to be saved.

As a preacher and teacher of God's word, I do not have the right to offer men hope where God does not. In fact, I would not be your friend if I know you are in error and fail to tell you the truth. Jesus said, "You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." Lies may be comforting for the present but also cost you your soul eternally.

If you stand for truth and right, you may be called narrow, unkind, and judgmental. Preach the truth in love and stand by it.

    LAW AND GOSPEL     back to topics

One of the most fundamental principles of under-standing the Bible is to know the difference in the Law of Moses and the gospel of Christ. "For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ." John 1:17. As great and important as the Law was, it was never intended to be permanent. From the very beginning, God planned to replace the Old Covenant with a New Covenant. Jer. 3:31; Hebrews 8:6-13.

The Law of Moses was delivered by God to Moses at Mt. Sinai shortly after the children of Israel were freed from their slavery in Egypt. It is plainly stated that it had not been given to their fathers but those present and alive that very day. Deut. 5:3, 22. Paul specifically stated that it was not given to Gentiles. Romans 2:14.

The sacrifices of the Law were inadequate to take away sin. In fact, in their repeated sacrifices, they had a constant reminder that they were still sinners. Hebrews 10:1-3. The blood of bulls and goats could never take away sins.

The high priests who officiated under the Law were sinners the same as the people they served. In making sacrifice for sin, the high priest had to offer first for himself and then for the sins of the people. In the gospel, Christ is our High Priest. He was sinless and had no need to offer for himself but his offering of himself was for our sins. He is not a priest after the order of Aaron. There was a change of priesthood. "For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law." Hebrews 7:12. Christ does not officiate as priest under the Law but under the gospel.

Many people try to justify their religious practices by appealing to things done by people living under the Law. We are under a different covenant and whatever we do must be authorized by the gospel of Christ. "Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus." Colossians 3:17. In giving the Great Commission, Jesus told the apostles to teach their converts to "observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you." Matt. 28:18-20.

     LED BY A STAR     back to topics

Countless thousands have thrilled to the story of the wise men who came in search of the newborn king. They not only searched but they found him. And how did they find him? They were led by a star. However, it seems that the star must have disappeared for a time. So, where would you look for a newborn king of the Jews? Probably the Jewish capital, Jerusalem.

Well, that is where they looked, but in vain. When they inquired in Jerusalem, the final resort was the scriptures. He was to be born in Bethlehem, but where in Bethlehem? The star reappeared and led them to the exact spot in Bethlehem.

We have no literal "star" to lead us to the Christ today. Our star is the word of God itself.

Red Stegall has a song about a cattle drive through plains where there were no landmarks. Each night "Cookie" would take the chuck wagon tongue and point it to the north star to make sure the next morning they would know their directions. One dark and stormy night the north star could not be seen. They next day they traveled in the wrong direction.

When we lose sight of our "star", we also lose our direction. Many souls will be lost because they have abandoned the Bible, the word of God, in favor of the doctrines and commandments of men. Jesus said this will make vain, invalidate, our worship of God. Matthew 15:9.

It has been said that the Bible is annually the best-seller and at the same time the least read of all books.

Our nation is in turmoil at present. There are people who would destroy us and our way of life. There are world leaders who are afraid to open their mail. Postal workers are afraid to handle the mail. Passengers are afraid to fly. To this extent, terrorists have succeeded in destroying our peace. If we are determined to get on with our lives, they cannot make us afraid nor intimidate us. Paul spoke of his afflictions, the physical abuse he suffered, the hunger and thirst. He also said, "In whatsoever state I am, I have learned to be content." Philippians 4:11.

If you want to know how to be saved, go to the Bible. If you want to know about the church, go to the Bible. Be led by the "star".

     "LORD, LORD . . . ."     back to topics

There is a common misconception concerning calling on the name of the Lord. It is true that "Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved." Acts 2:21. After being told this, they still asked "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" They seemed to under-stand that they did not know what to do to call on the name of the Lord. Peter then told them how they could do that: repent and be baptized. Acts 2;38.

Jesus said, "Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom on heaven, but, he that doeth the will of my Father who is in heaven." Matt. 7:21. Again, he asked, "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?" Luke 6:46.

To be a lord means to have the rule or dominion over others. A lord is a master. Unless Christ rules our lives, he is not our lord.

"If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." Romans 10:9. We would like for Jesus to be our savior. Not many want him to be their lord. We cannot have Christ as our lord and yet fail to follow him. If we truly call on the name of the Lord, we will serve him with one consent. Zeph. 3:9.

Calling on the name of the Lord involves much more than crying out or praying Whatever we DO in word or deed must be done in the name of the Lord. Col. 3:17.

When Saul of Tarsus went into the city of Damascus to be told what he must do, he prayed and fasted three days and nights. If ever a sinner had a chance to "pray through", Saul did. Yet, when Ananias came to him, he said "Arise and be baptized and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." His calling on the name of the Lord included being baptized. Calling on the name of the Lord means we make our appeal to God rather than to false gods. The "whosoever" means that whether Jew or Gentile, male or female, slave or free, we have the opportunity to call on the name of the Lord. He will not accept our lip service. He wants our whole-hearted obedience to him in all things.