I Just Want to Fit in

The need to be socially accepted can play a significant role with how we act to fit in with our society.  Television commercials encourage us to buy their product because “everyone is using it.”  Clothing departments encourage us to wear the name brands because that is the “in thing to do.”  And those that don’t participate in the popular choice aren’t considered to be a part of the “in crowd.”

Teenagers often face peer pressure from their peers in this way.  They are often pressured by their peers to do certain things to be accepted – have sex outside of marriage, use fowl language, lie, participate in the use of drugs and alcohol, etc.  In the minds of most, fitting in with the popular crowd brings happiness and an ease to life.  Even though society believes it controls the popular choice, does that make the popular choice right?  Our society is simply trying to persuade us to be something that we are not.

As Christians, we are to shine as lights unto the entire world (Mt. 6:13-16).  The Scriptures teach that people must see a difference in our lives compared to the lives of the world.  Often, because we are different, the world will bring social persecution upon those shining as lights.  Even though our world sees us as social outcasts, consider the outcome for the Christian.

Choosing to shine as lights in this world will do two things.  First, it will either cause those who are of the darkness – those of the world – to abstain from the light or provoke them to become a part of it.  In other words, those who participate in ungodly activities will flee from the presence of those participating in godliness.  Light is known for exposing the things that are hidden in the darkness.  And for that, a person might become embarrassed and regretful of his actions.  If he is truly attracted to the light, his conscious will work together to produce godly sorrow leading to repentance (II Cor. 7:10).

Second, those who shine as lights will attract others who are trying to shine their light as well.  “When we walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Jesus, His Son, cleanses us from all sin” (1 Jn. 1:7).

The saying, “opposites attract” is not true with light and darkness.  As Christians, we don’t have to give ourselves over to the ways of the world to be a part of the “in crowd.”  Jesus Christ shed His blood so that we could be a part of His crowd (Jn. 3:16)!  Jesus distinguished that people are either in the church or outside of the church (Mt. 16:18; Mt. 7:21-23).

Christianity isn’t the popular decision of most today.  Jesus Christ wasn’t a popular choice in His day either.  Peter, an apostle of Christ who knew that Jesus was the Christ and the Son of God, denied any accusation that linked him to Jesus.  He understood that being with Jesus could have caused him pain or even death.  The most common incident that declares Jesus’ unpopularity was His suffering a horrific and painful death because people chose to be against Him – the true Light (Jn. 1:9).

How do we overcome the peer pressure and the thoughts of believing we do not fit in?  Understanding there is more than this earthly life is the beginning of it all.  Most things our peers pressure us to do are often things that God does not want us to participate in.  These actions often cause us to put Christ through open shame yet again (Heb. 6:6).

It doesn’t matter what our peers say we should do, or how society says we should act and respond toward others.  But what does matter is the plan that God has laid out for us and the pattern by which we are to live.

Jesus declared,

‘Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.  In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you.  I go to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.  And where I go you know and they way you know.’  Thomas said to Him, ‘Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?’  Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through Me’ (Jn. 14:1-6).

The words of Jesus reveal it clearly.  Society might decide the popular choice for the world.  But the true choice has already been laid out before us.  Jesus Christ is the Way, Truth, and Life.

TEK

 

What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos & Body Piercings?

Tattoos and body piercings have been discussed greatly over the past several years.  People wonder, “Is it right or wrong for a Christian to have a tattoo or multiple body piercings?”  What is simply being asked is if the Bible speaks in approval or disapproval of such actions?

When approaching the Scriptures, we must first ask, “Does the Bible specifically say, ‘Thou shalt not get a tattoo?’” Nowhere in the Scriptures does the Bible use these words.  Some have tried to apply a couple Old Testament passages to explain that tattoos are wrong.

For instance, Leviticus 19:28: “You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the LORD.”  The warning to those in this context was to abstain from heathen practices.  This was a custom that was also practiced by those who worshiped Baal in I Kings 18:28.  As Christians, we must also remember that we are under the New Testament law (Col. 2:14).  The only principle from this passage in Leviticus that can apply to our society is not to associate ourselves with things that are representative of the world.

With that being said, our influence and reputation are things that we must consider before making decisions.  Our choices can affect us for a lifetime.  For instance, I have watched interviews of those that have tattoos and more times than not, they explain how difficult it is for them to be taken seriously.  When they are out to eat, they aren’t given the best of service and the nicest seats.  Renting or buying a home is even difficult because people look at them as a rough character.  And some even said how hard it was for them to get a job because of the visibility of their tattoos.

Also consider the places that one would have to go to get these tattoos.  Does it portray a Christian environment?  Is it a place that is going to hinder or help my reputation as a Christian?  Is this going to glorify God?

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God, just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved (I Cor. 10:31-33).

Jesus came “to seek and to save those which are lost” (Lk. 19:10).  As Christians, we have been given the Great Commission to seek and save the lost of this world (Mt. 28:18-20).  We must ask if these things are going to glorify God and save souls?

Modesty is another principle that one should consider before getting tattoos or multiple body piercings.  The issue with modesty isn’t with the dressing of men or women, but the elaborate and showy character that tattoos and piercings can produce.  I Timothy 2:9 and I Peter 3:3 teach that we shouldn’t be flashy or gaudy in our appearance.  Christians aren’t to draw attention to themselves just to promote self.  Multiple piercings and tattoos often draw attention.

Saying that the Bible condemns those with tattoos and multiple body piercings would be going too far.  The Bible doesn’t give any indication that we can condemn such practices.  We must always remember to speak where the Bible speaks and be silent where the Bible is silent.

This does not mean that there are passages in the Scriptures that we shouldn’t consider before acting in these ways.  While it appears that there is nothing inherently sinful with tattoos and body piercings, there are many things that one would need to consider to avoid evil.

This article was written in response to answer a question that was asked about this subject.  My goal is to write and teach on things that are applicable to the audience that receives this information.  If you have questions that you would like to see addressed, please feel free to let me know.  May all things be done to the glory and honor of God.

TEK

 

Are We Once Saved Always Saved?

The Scriptures clearly show that God wants all men to be saved (I Tim. 2:3-4; Lk. 13:3,5). We learn also that God set in motion His plan of salvation to be available to man as a choice (Jn. 3:16; Rom. 6:3-4). And after man obeys the commands to have salvation, he must live in the light rather than the darkness (I Jn. 1:7).

Is it possible to be saved through the watery grave of baptism and to always be saved? The Scriptures are the only way for us to have the God-given authority to know these things. What does the Bible teach about salvation and its assurance?

The Bible does show that it is possible for a Christian (baptized believer in Christ) to revert back to sin and be in a lost state. James warns the brethren that it is possible for one to turn from the truth. The brethren’s responsibility then is to bring him back to cover a multitude of sins (5:19-20). The Bible even shows that it is possible to sin against an individual and what we must do to restore them in the eyes of God (Mt. 18:15-17). Paul also warns the brethren that if a man has been overtaken in any trespass, “you who are spiritual RESTORE such a one in a spirit of gentleness, consider yourself lest you also be tempted” (Gal. 6:1).

In addition, the Bible shows examples of faithful Christians reverting back to the ways of the world. The church in Corinth was guilty of allowing an inappropriate relationship to continue. Paul tells the brethren in Corinth that not even the Gentiles would allow this to go on (I Cor. 5:1-5). Paul gives them instruction that this individual must be delivered over to Satan (5:5). Even though this individual had fallen, he still had the opportunity to come back to the church. In 2 Corinthians 2:8 this man restores his relationship with God and the church.

Paul also tells Timothy that Demas has forsaken the faith (II Tim. 4:10). When we love this present world more than we love God, we have fallen from the faith. We can’t have the best of both worlds, and must chose who we will serve (Mt. 6:24).

If it is not possible for a Christian to fall away from the faith, why did the Hebrews writer warn of such things.

Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away. For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast and every transgression and disobedience received a just reward, how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him, God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to His own will (Heb. 2:1-4)?

In Hebrews 6, he says that it is impossible for them to come back due to their unbelief. Even to this day we could fall away because of unbelief.

The Scriptures teach that we are not once saved always saved, but warns us constantly to be on guard for our souls. We do learn that the assurance of salvation comes to them that love the Lord, fear Him, and keep His commandments (Rom. 8:28; Eccl. 12:13-14; I Jn. 2:3-4).

The full assurance of salvation only comes when we live faithfully for Him.

1. Revelation 2:10 – “…remain faithful til death and I will give you a crown of righteousness.”

2. I John 2:5-6 - “But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfect in him. By this we know that we are in Him. He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.”

3. I John 1:7 – “But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.”

4. The faithful promise of eternal life: John 14:1-4 – “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.”

We must always let the Bible speak on these matters of importance. Have a wonderful week!

TEK

 

How to Recognize the True Church

There are many “churches” that claim the authentic nature of Christ’s church.  In fact, most churches will state that the Scriptures are the sole authority by which they live.  But do the teachings and actions of these churches truly match what the Scriptures teach?

As we discussed last week, our society feels that it is alright to “Pick a church, any church”.  How can there be so many churches that teach different doctrines and each of them be the true church Jesus built (Mt. 16:18)?  With the establishment of other churches and the mass confusion this has caused in our society, how do we recognize the true church when we see it?

Already establishing that Christ has built His church, we can conclude some things that are false in our society today.  The church that Jesus built was established by Jesus Christ.  The true church today will recognize Him as the founder of that truth.  Many churches in the religious world will say that Jesus is their founder, but in reality other men serve that purpose.  The true church from God’s word is not established by another man’s name.  The Bible clearly recognizes that Christ is the head of the church (Eph. 1:22-23).

When the church was established on the Day of Pentecost, notice who was responsible for adding those souls to the church after they had been baptized for the forgiveness of sins.  “And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47).

This poses at least two problems for some churches in today’s society.  First, any church that was established after the Day of Pentecost can not be recognized as the true church.  Second, the Lord adds those souls that obey His commands to the church.  Nowhere throughout the Scriptures do we see that the people are responsible for adding souls to the church, but only the Lord.  This would particularly affect those who vote their members into their “church”.

Once we have recognized and understood these things, what are some further indications that will help us recognize Christ’s church today?  Remember Christ said that not even the gates of Hades (death) would prevail against His church.  After Christ’s death and ascension, the beginning of the church came into fruition in Acts chapter two.  Neither His death, nor the death of His followers would affect the coming of the church or its end (Mt. 16:18; Heb. 12:22-23).  The church even went through multiple persecutions, but was not hindered by them.

The church that Jesus built is still in existence today and teaches the truth.  Paul instructed Timothy that “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 complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (II Tim. 3:16-17). The true church will hold fast to these teachings and never let go of them (II Tim. 1:13).  We must look for the church that teaches truth and truth only.

The true church will also worship God in the way that He has instructed each man to worship Him.  We are to worship the Father “in spirit and in truth” (Jn. 4:34).  Many have decided that they will worship God however they choose – the use of mechanical instruments, using ladies to serve in the service, taking the Lord’s Supper only once a year – when the Bible gives specific instruction on these subjects in the context of worship (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16; I Tim. 2:11; Acts 20:7; I Cor. 11:23-29; I Cor. 16:1-2).  In Mark’s account of the gospels, people were trying to follow the traditions of the elders over the wisdom of God (Mark 7:1-7).  Sadly, sometimes traditions of men are emphasized over the authority that God gives throughout the Scriptures.  The true church will worship the Father as He pleases.

The church that Jesus built will also instruct others concerning the way of salvation.  God desires to have a relationship with every man (I Tim. 2:3-4),  and has given us instruction through His word.  On the Day of Pentecost, the people asked what they must do to be saved and Peter told them to “Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:37-38).  Salvation is only offered through Christ’s blood and baptism is the link to our salvation (Eph. 1:7; Rom. 6:3-4).

Would you like to be a true child of God and become a part of the church that Jesus built?  We would be glad to study further with you over these things if there are any questions.  I hope that each of you has a wonderful week!

TEK

 

Pick a Church, Any Church

Over the past six months of living in this area, I have noticed a sign that has been placed in many front yards that encourage the idea of attending the church of your choice.  Even though many in other states don’t have these signs in their yards, there is still a great deal of people that believe this is alright in the eyes of God.  In fact, a statement that is often made by those that believe in choosing the church of your choice is that we are all going to the same place, but through different avenues.

Even though we do have a choice in the matter of what church we attend, does that mean that it is right for us to do so?  Just as the Bible instructs us of how we must live, we are also instructed of which church we must attend for it to be pleasing in the eyes of God.

Before the beginning of time, God had a plan that involved the details of the church and its foundation (Eph. 3:10-12).  From the beginning stages in Genesis to the first chapter in the book of Acts, God had put in place the plan for the church’s existence.  If we look at the genealogy of Christ found in Matthew chapter one and Luke chapter three and study the history of those prophecies made in the Old Testament, we can see that Jesus’ lineage came through that of Judah (Gen. 49:10; Mt. 1:2-3).

Jesus’ entrance into the world was the answer for the misunderstood prophecies of the Old Testament and solution to those things to come.  When Jesus began His earthly ministry He preached that the Kingdom of God was at hand (Mark 1:14-15).  John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, was preaching this before Jesus even entered the picture (Mark 1:1-8).  Even though Jesus and others preached the coming of the Kingdom, many still didn’t understand what the meaning was for it and how it was related to them.

Jesus first mentioned in Matthew’s account that upon Peter’s confession that He (Jesus) is the Son of God, His church would be built (Mt. 16:18).  The emphasis is upon the singular church that Jesus is going to build.  In the context of Matthew, this church had not yet been established.  In Mark’s account, the people were given an idea of when this Kingdom would be established.  Some who were still living at that moment would be alive to see the Kingdom come with power (Mark 9:1).

God, also knowing that man would need redemption for the sins that he has committed, sent Jesus to serve as the Savior for humanity.  For God so loved the world that He gave His only Begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him, should not perish but have everlasting life (Jn. 3:16).

Before the church could be established, Christ had to die on the Cross.  The blood of Jesus that was shed on the Cross is important for those who desire to enter into the Kingdom that Christ would establish.  Jesus Christ’s shed blood is what gives us redemption and allows us to be added to the church that He built.  His blood is what makes us acceptable to the Father and gives us forgiveness for the sins we have committed (Eph. 1:4-7).

After Christ’s death on the Cross and His ascension into Heaven, the beginning of the church comes in Acts chapter two.  Just as the Scriptures had said, the church came in Jerusalem and with power (Acts 2:1-5; Luke 24:49; Mark 9:1; Acts 1:8).  Peter and the other apostles preached an outstanding sermon that led men and women alike to call upon the name of the Lord through repentance and the watery grave of baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of their sins (Acts 2:37-38, 41).

The Scriptures tell us that there is only one body  in which we can be a part of (Eph. 4:4).  The word body is representative of the church (Eph. 1:22-23).  And the only body that we read of through the Scriptures is the church that Jesus built (Mt. 16:18; Acts 2).

The Bible only gives us authority to be a baptized believer of that one true church.  Those that are a part of that body will see the eternal life that Jesus has promised when He told the brethren in Revelation chapter two to remain faithful until death and they would be crowned with a crown of righteousness (2:10).

Have you been added to the true church?  We do have the choice to choose where we will worship, but the question is, “Is it truly the one that Jesus built?”

TEK

 

Is There Need for Extra Revelation?

There are many misunderstandings that have developed throughout the religious society.  A common misunderstanding that has increased is the need to have another revelation from God.  Making such a claim denies that the Bible is the inspired word of God and is full of contradictions.  The ultimate result in this claim creates a doubt in the Holy Scriptures.

There is a problem when we begin to doubt the Scriptures that have been given to us through the inspiration of God (II Tim. 3:16).  Those who hold to such a view are asserting that other revelations from God have been given to them and without these ‘truths’, we don’t have God’s full understanding for mankind’s existence.  However, these claims are false beliefs that exist to impose doubt in the minds of Christians.  God’s word is the inspired truth.  There is no reason for further revelation from God.

We need to first understand that God has given us His words for a purpose.  Paul tells young Timothy that the Scriptures are profitable for “teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (II Tim. 3:16-17).  God has given mankind everything he needs pertaining to life and godliness (II Pt. 1:3).  If this is not true, then God would not be the loving and just God that He is and the Bible states for Him to be.

Only men moved by the Holy Spirit were given the inspiration of Scriptures because their message came from God.  God’s will wasn’t determined by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit (II Pt. 1:20-21).  Paul explains how the Spirit of God worked through him as an inspired writer (I Cor. 2:6-13).  He describes that only the spirit of man can tell the mind of man.  And the same is true for God — only the Spirit of God can tell the mind of God.  The Spirit of God has revealed the truths to  inspired men such as Paul.  Nothing from the Scriptures has come from words taught by human wisdom.

Consider also the unchangeable nature of the Scriptures.  The Bible contains sixty-six books.  Yet, in all these books and the years of their existence, not one time have these words been altered to say that God had revealed a ‘better revelation’.  They have stayed the same.  The Hebrews writer says that Christ is the same today, yesterday, and forever (Heb. 13:8).  The gospel of Christ has not changed nor will it.  All things man needs can be found within the Scriptures.

God has also given authority to His Son.  God first spoke to the fathers through the prophets in many ways, but in these last days — that is, the Christian Dispensation — has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things through whom also He made the world (Heb. 1:1-2).  In Matthew, the apostles were given the authority in the regeneration — The Christian Age —  to tell the truths of what God’s people, the church, was supposed to do (19:28).  The apostles never had the authority to pass the authority given to them to someone else (Acts 8:17-24) because once the last apostle died, all had come to completion.  The only authority given to the apostles were instructions of what to do (Jn. 16:13).

The gospel had been preached and delivered throughout the entire world.“Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3).   Why would Paul tell the church in Galatia to not depart from that one gospel (Gal. 1:7-9)?  Paul told the church in Thessalonica to hold to the same teachings that were taught by Paul and his companions (II Thess. 2:15).  Paul’s missionary journey’s throughout the book of Acts show detail that the gospel was preached to many nations.

Today, we must remember that the Bible is the all inspired message given to us by God through the men moved by the Holy Spirit.  His message to us is complete and will be all that mankind will ever need to know what he must do to have a relationship with God that will last for eternity.  We must never doubt the importance of these words given to us by God, and always use them as strength to endure to the very end.

TEK

 

Curing an Anxious Heart

Sometimes emotions can cause a person to worry themselves half to death. Every person at some time or another has had an anxious heart. But how do we overcome these anxious emotions and not let them overcome us?

First, ponder over the things that God has blessed us with. He has supplied us with the necessities of life, given us the beauty of nature to surround us daily, and if we’re completely honest with ourselves, He has granted us even those things that aren’t of necessity. One conclusion that can be made is that God takes care of us.

In further exploration, the Bible tells us that we aren’t to worry about the things of this earth (Mt. 6:25- 30). Jesus states, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away” (Mt. 24:35).

Whether it is the promise of the Earth melting in fervent heat (II Pt. 3:12) or we pass through death caused by other means (James 4:14), life on earth is short and it will pass away. About three years ago while my wife and I were living in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, a nine-year- old girl was shot and killed in Harrisburg (20 minutes from us). We aren’t promised a specific time on earth. The importance of life is not to be focused on material things, but on things set above.

Our priorities as followers of Christ must be placed upon Christ’s Kingdom and His righteousness (Mt. 6:33). Earlier in the context of this same chapter Matthew says,

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Mt. 6:19-21).

Jesus knew that His focus had to be on the things above because that was His Father’s dwelling place. At the age of twelve, Jesus was going about His Father’s business in the temples with men of more mature stature (Lk. 2:41-43). In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus asked the Father, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will” (Mt. 26:39).

Paul, a bond-servant of Christ Jesus, understood the priorities of life were all about the Kingdom of Christ. In his missionary journeys, Paul was only out for the betterment of souls. His desire was to bring others to Christ through the preaching of the glorious gospel (I Cor. 9:16-18; Rom. 10:1-5). Paul writes in Colossians 3:2, “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”

With an anxious heart, we must remember that there is a better place prepared for the righteous after life into eternity. In the gospel of John, Jesus tells His disciples that He has prepared a special dwelling place for them to dwell with Him for eternity (Jn. 14:1-4). When heaven is our reward, we can’t help but to rejoice in a matter of joy (Mt. 5:12).

Once we conclude that the things on this earth aren’t worth worrying over and our priorities must be set upon the things above, we must not worry about tomorrow. When we become a Christian, we are a child of God (Gal. 2:26ff). As sons of God, we are on our way to the better place that has been prepared specifically for us. We aren’t to fear what happens today or tomorrow because at life’s end, Jesus Christ will reward us with a crown of righteousness if we remain faithful (Rev. 2:10). God is truly the rewarder of those who diligently seek after Him (Heb. 11:6).

The only people that need to worry or have a fear of what will happen today or tomorrow are those who have not found the truth. Jesus states, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man comes unto the Father, but by Me” (Jn. 14:6). Many will call upon the name of the Lord, but will not be rewarded due to heart issues (Mt. 7:21-23). When we have put Christ on in baptism, we are completely dedicating our lives to a full submission to His will. We are to take up our cross and follow after Him (Mt. 10:38-39).

Life is going to vanish away, but the true priorities of Earth will take away our worries when we are truly focused on the things of Heaven. As long as we are true followers of Christ, we have no need to worry about the things of tomorrow. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Phil. 4:6). I hope that each of you have a blessed week!

TEK

 

Hot or Cold?

The average person speaks between 7,000 to 9,000 words a day.  Of course, this depends on how many people we might come in contact with each day.  But consider the extent of our conversations with these people.

What are the most common conversations we have with others on a daily basis?  We might ask them how they are doing.  We often discuss how the weather is and what we hope for it to do in the next few days.  The latest news often springs into our discussion with others as well.  But stop and ask, “Where do these conversations go after that?”

Most conversations do not extend beyond “Hi, how are you today?” or “That weather sure is nice today isn’t it?”  Part of the reason exists because we are a closed society.  In other words, we are afraid to let others into our lives because we are scared of what they might find out about us or what we might find out about them.  These conversations can simply be defined as cold conversations.

But what constitutes a hot conversation?  These conversations are generally classified by words that are worthwhile.  Discussions developing relationships, understanding backgrounds, and sometimes even religious beliefs.  In the religious context, where do our conversations typically lead us?  Hot or cold?

As we look throughout the Scriptures, Jesus clearly defines the notion of a religious hot conversation.  In John chapter four, Jesus approaches a woman in which He has never had any contact.  Yet, immediately after asking for water, Jesus starts to inquire of her spiritual state.  In fact, the woman later states that Jesus told her everything that she ever did (Jn. 4:29).  But notice the result of this more intense conversation.  Many of the Samaritans became believers that day based upon the testimony of the woman and the very words that Jesus had spoken to them (Jn. 4:39-42).

Jesus’ conversation led to further evangelistic outreach for His Kingdom, but not all conversations as such come to that point.  Sometimes we might need to correct the teachings that aren’t as accurate as they should be in connection with the Lord’s will.

In fact, Acts 18:24ff teaches of a brother named Apollos who had been instructed in the way of the Lord, fervent in spirit, and taught accurately the things of the Lord, yet needed further guidance concerning baptism.  When he began speaking in the synagogue, he was boldly professing the baptism of John the Baptist.  But when Aquila and Priscilla heard him teaching that baptism, they taught him the way of the Lord more correctly.

Hot conversations can even mean expressing great concern for the hearts of men.  Jesus expresses Himself to the Scribes and Pharisees with some words of condemnation.  He calls them hypocrites and blind guides (Mt. 23).  When the hearts of men are clearly revealing a lack of concern for God’s will, then we must be ready to boldly stand opposed to them.

We must also use these conversations to stir up the brethren to love and good works (Heb. 10:23ff) through words of encouragement.  Paul, in writing to various congregations and sometimes individuals, would use words of encouragement that were worthwhile.  In I Thessalonians, Paul tells the brethren that he gives thanks to God always mentioning them in prayer.  He even expresses his joy for their work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope (1:3).

Paul also knew that young Timothy was going to be standing opposed to men that wouldn’t listen as easily.  These men were concerned with endless genealogies and strange doctrines.  So, Paul writes instruction and encouragement to Timothy in how he should react to these things.

What would have happened on the day of Pentecost if Peter and the other Apostles had never spoke before the crowd concerning Jesus being the Son of God?  How would the Corinthian brethren reacted if Paul never taught them the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ in I Corinthians 15?  For that matter, how would anyone know what to do if we don’t speak to them concerning these matters that are hot in nature?

To answer these questions, no one would respond because there would be  no words that would spark them to react.  As we continue to live, I challenge each of us to make the most of every conversation we have.  Make it a worthwhile discussion, and challenge the minds of men to do the will of the Lord.  After all, the Scriptures ultimate reaction is to convince, convict, and convert.  I hope that each of you have a blessed week and do the work of the Lord heartily.

TEK

 

What Does the Bible Teach about Baptism?

Religiously speaking, there are many misconceptions concerning the definition and clarification of water baptism with its connection to salvation.  It is probably the most controversial of all religious subjects.  Therefore, it must be examined.

The problem at hand is when some believe that one can be saved before baptism occurs.  They further exclaim that baptism is only an outward confession of an inward experience.  And when baptism occurs, we are simply showing others our identification with the Lord.  However, we can clearly notice that the authority of the Scriptures teach that we are not saved until the act of baptism.

Part and parcel to the misconceptions of baptism’s link to salvation might be the Scripture’s discussion of multiple baptisms.  To examine the baptism that brings salvation, it is important to clarify the extent of these other baptisms first.

John’s baptism, found throughout the gospel accounts, was administered by John the Baptist and his disciples (Mt. 21:25; Mk. 1:4; Jn. 4:1).  John’s purpose was to prepare the way of the Lord and make His paths straight (Mal. 3:1; Mt. 3:1-3).  This baptism was active up until the point of Pentecost (Acts 19:1-5) and the Jews were the subjects to receive this baptism (Lk. 1:16).  The design of John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins (Mk. 1:4).

The baptism of fire is a baptism that has not yet transpired.  In Matthew’s gospel account, we note that Christ will be the administrator for this baptism (3:11).  He will use the element of fire (II Pt. 3:7; Mt. 3:11) and its subjects are those who are wicked (Mt. 3:10; Rev. 21:8).  This baptism will obviously occur in the future when the Lord returns (I Thess. 5:2).

The baptism of the Holy Spirit was administered by Christ between 33-41 AD.  The Apostles (Acts 2) and Cornelius (Acts 10) served as the subjects for this baptism.  The purpose of the Holy Spirit coming down upon them was to reveal the truth (Jn. 16:13), confirm the word (Heb. 2:1-4), and witness the acceptance of Gentiles to salvation (Acts 15:7-9).

Like John’s baptism, the Great Commission baptism uses the element of water.  However, John’s baptism was not valid after Christ’s death on the Cross (Acts 19:1-5).  Unlike the other baptisms, this baptism had a completely different emphasis.  The subjects of this baptism are for those who are true, penitent believers and their outcome is to receive full forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38; Acts 8:38).

Which baptism is the one that now saves us?  The Bible clearly states that there is only one baptism (Eph. 4:5).  Exploring the options at hand, the “one baptism” cannot be John’s baptism because it was not valid after Pentecost (Acts 19) and John was to prepare the way before Christ.  The “one baptism” cannot be the baptism of fire, for it serves as punishment to those who are wicked and is to be administered on the last day (Rev. 21:8).  The “one baptism” cannot be the baptism of the Holy Spirit because it was administered by Jesus Christ Himself and only given to the Apostles and Cornelius (Mt. 3:11; Acts 2:33).  Therefore, the Great Commission baptism is the “one baptism” to be applied today until the end of time (Mt. 28:20).  This water baptism is the only baptism that can be administered by men (Mt. 28:19).

It is questioned further by some whether this baptism is legitimate.  How do we know that water baptism is correct?  A strong connection is made when the dates for Ephesians and I Peter are examined — both written around 64 AD.  Paul states in Ephesians that there is one baptism and Peters states that water baptism serves as a good conscience toward God and now saves us (Eph. 4:5; I Pt. 3:20-22).

Without water baptism, we are lost eternally.  There is no salvation granted to us without the contact of Jesus’ blood (Jn 3:16; Rom. 6:23).  But with the blood of Jesus, we have everything to gain (Eph. 1:7), which must be gained through water baptism (Rom. 6:3-4).

It is not the water that saves you, but God chose this action as a part of our obedience.  For the whole duty of man is to “Fear God and keep His commandments” (Eccl. 12:13).

TEK

 

This Time It’s the End of the World

Headlines scream it, search engines find it, and people believe it.  The end of the world is only two days away according to Herald Camping at Family Radio.

At the beginning of this year, this same man was responsible for leading many people to believe that May 21, 2011 would be the beginning of the judgment for the world.  Now that it has come and gone, he poorly excuses the signs for the end of time and explains why they did not happen.  But now he proclaims the end of time, earthquakes, rapture, and the earth melting with fervent heat will all happen on October 21, 2011.

Camping isn’t the only one who has attempted to predict the end of time.  In 1969, Charles Manson predicted that an apocalyptic race war would occur.  He took matters into his own hands and started the war himself.  In 1975, the Jehovah’s Witnesses predicted that creation would come to an end.  Hal Lindsey wrote a book, The 1980s: Countdown to Armageddon, suggesting that the Bible heavily showed the end of the world in this decade by a surprise Soviet nuclear attack on America.

The puzzling matter of it all seems to show all of these events taking place in America.  In other words, it appears that when America falls, the end of the world will too.  But no where throughout Scripture is this principle taught.  In fact, all the world will come to an end at the same time (Mt. 25:31-46; I Thess. 4:13-5:6; II Thess. 1:6-10).

What does the Bible teach about men knowing the outcome for the end of time?  Matthew says that we must keep watch because no man knows the day nor the hour (25:13).  He even states in an earlier passage that not even the Son of God — Jesus Christ — knows the time, nor the angels (24:36), but only the Father.

Other passages prove that Jesus’ return in the sky for the second coming will occur as a thief in the night (I Thess. 5:2; II Pt. 3:10).  Again, emphasizing the idea that no one, but the Father knows when that day will be.  A thief comes unexpectedly and so will the second coming of Christ.

Why do many feel they can predict the end of time?  Most misunderstand Peter’s statement in II Peter 3:8, “…with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.”  This statement is not to be taken literally.  Contextually speaking, Peter was emphasizing that these false teachers were wrong about Christ’s coming.  God is not slow about His promises.  In Eric Lyons article, With God One Day is a Thousand Years?, he says this,

Regardless of what the scoffers alleged about the Second Coming, Peter wanted the church to know that “the Lord is not slack concerning His promise [of a return], as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (vs. 9). Sandwiched between these thoughts is the fact that the passing of time does not affect God’s promises, specifically the promise of His return. If Jesus promised to return 1,000 or 2,000 years ago, it is as good as if He made the promise yesterday. Indeed, “with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.” With men, the passing of long periods of time generally affects their keeping of promises, but not with God. Time has no bearing on whether He will do what He said He would do: “a thousand years are like a day”.  (Lyons, Apologeticspress.org)

Most conclude with the proper calculations, combined with the reign of certain nations in Daniel, and the ‘signs’ for the end of time, this date can be predicted.

     There will be a day of judgment in the end, and it will happen all on the same day that our Lord returns.  There will never be a thousand year kingdom of our Lord established on this Earth because the Lord’s Kingdom is the church (Mt. 16:18-19; Eph. 1:22-23).

The Scriptures do teach that we must always be ready for the day of the Lord because we are uncertain when He will come.  There are many who have tried to pervert the doctrine of the end of time and many that are currently doing so.  But as Christians, we must not let these false teachers stand in our way of proclaiming what we do know about our Father and the judgment at hand.  Whether the Lord returns in our lifetime or not, we must always be looking to Jesus, which will aid us in our preparation for that day (Heb. 12:1-2).

TEK