The Truth Shall Set You Free — Part II

2 Corinthians 11:13-15 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. (14) And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. (15) Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

The Truth is in Jesus Christ

Christians must speak out that the only hope for any person is in the Lord Jesus Christ. The word of God declares that “Christ is all.” When one considers the need of man and the person of the Lord Jesus Christ, it becomes abundantly clear that anything which leads away from the Lord is evil. All men, whether lost or redeemed, need the Lord Jesus Christ.

The need of man is Jesus Christ. The Bible reveals the darkness and depravity of man’s natural state. For example, Romans 7:18 states, “…In me (that is, in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing….” There is nothing good about man’s fallen nature. Also, the Isaiah 64:6 states, “…All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags….” Apart from the Lord, man can do nothing worthy before the Lord. The apostle Paul understood this truth, for it led him to cry out, “O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” His answer is given in Romans 7:25, as Paul writes, “I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Man is totally destitute without God. Man’s only hope is Jesus Christ.

The person of the Lord reveals His power to save man. The Bible is a revelation of Jesus Christ. For example, Colossians 2:9 states, “For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.” Also, Isaiah 9:6 says, “…His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.” When the Lord worked in His earthly ministry, people referred to him as a friend of sinners. James 5:11 states, “…The Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.” Paul understood something of Christ when he said, “…The Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” The world could not contain all of the books that could be written concerning the person of the Lord. He is man’s only hope and greatest need.

If the Lord is all and man is needy of Christ, then anything that leads away from the Lord Jesus is evil. Modern societies have been filled with godless philosophies and wicked ideas that parade under the banner of godliness and truth. Television and radio broadcasts are filled with people who offer guidance apart from Jesus Christ. If man truly needs the Lord, then it is wicked to teach him that he can live a good life without yielding to the Saviour. Bookstores are filled with self-help material and church-growth tactics that speak nothing of being humble before Christ and seeking Him daily in prayer and study of the Bible. Men are not to focus on having a balanced life; men are to look unto Jesus, repenting of sin and trusting Him as their Guide and Saviour. Colossians 2:10 makes this point as it states, “And ye are complete in him….” No man has power to help another, only Jesus has that power.

Christ said, “…For without me, ye can do nothing.” Every man would do well to remember that truth. There is no deliverance from sin, no freedom to serve the Lord, no Christian life, no hope, and no joy without Him. Jesus Christ loves sinners, and He desires to give them eternal life and enable them to live the Christian life. This reason is why Christians must be careful to speak against anything that directs men to any other source than Jesus Christ.

The Truth is Lived Through Biblical Principles

There is a difference between what is moral, legal, and biblical. The standard of the Christ-like individual has never been, nor shall ever be, the standard of the world. God’s people are to live by what is Biblical, following the principles found in the word of God for their lives. Through understanding the differences between these three standards, one may be better equipped to serve the Lord.

The Bible way is the only way for God’s children. The Bible teaches that there is no substitute for God’s inerrant word. For example, Psalm 119:33 states, “Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end.” Also, the Scriptures do not change. It is written in Psalm 119:89, “For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.” There must be a standard by which one may live his life; if the standard constantly changed, so would one’s direction and path. God’s word never changes, for the God of the Bible never changes (Hebrews 13:8). The Bible is the only rule of faith and practice for the Christian.

God’s people must never allow their lives to be governed by morals. The Bible teaches that it is God’s word that is to mold the lives of God’s people. Mores, or moral teachings and standards, are not always biblical and can change. For example, many years ago, abortion was not moral. Though that evil is not considered to be moral by true Christians, it has found much more acceptance in society, yet its acceptance with man does not equal acceptance with God. Again, it was inconceivable to previous generations that people would openly dress immodestly, yet this practice has become accepted as part of American culture. God’s Word must be the guide, for it declares what is found beautiful in the eyes of God.

What is legal is not to be the guide for the practices of God’s people. The Word of God is clear that Christians ought to be law-abiding citizens, faithful to their country and to the laws of the land. Romans 13:1 states, “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.” However, all that is legal is not righteous before the Lord, as laws are formed to reflect the moral standards of a society. For instance, it is legal to consume alcoholic beverages, but drunkenness is clearly condemned in God’s word. Furthermore, pornography is legal in America, yet according to the Scriptures, it is hated by God. What man considers being legal is not the rule by which Christians live.

“Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.” The Christian belongs to Jesus Christ and only to Him (I Corinthians 6:19-20). God’s people are to be law-abiding, upstanding citizens, for it is commanded by the Lord. However, the laws of the land and the standards of society do not always reflect what the Lord desires. The only unchanging, uncompromising authority is the word of God. There is a great difference between that which is biblical, that which is moral, and that which is legal. Let every child of God seek out what is found in God’s word and hold fast to, “Thus saith the LORD.”

Conclusion

Truth is found in God, and it alone can help sinners. Satan’s desire is to keep people from the deliverance that is in Jesus Christ. His wicked devices are set to prevent the Lord’s glorious truth from being heard and received. The Devil does not want people to understand their need of Christ; he does not want people to realize how subtle he truly is; he does not want men to live their lives solely by the word of God; and he does not want Christians to be salt and light to a dark world. The words of Jesus must not be forgotten and must be believed, for He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life, no man cometh unto the Father but by me.”

The Bible tells a story of a good and devout man. His name was Cornelius, and he was a person who feared God and gave alms. However, even though he performed many good deeds, he was still lost and bound of Hell. God sent Peter to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to Cornelius, who believed when he heard the word. It was then that Cornelius’ life was forever changed, and he was brought into a relationship with God. The Devil will use religion and morals to keep people bound in sin, for those works cannot save a soul. Only Jesus Christ can redeem and help.

The world needs truth! The truth is that Jesus Christ alone can make the difference in the lives of people. If a Christian is not pointing others to Christ, he is disobedient. God’s people must witness with a holy passion of the miraculous power of Jesus Christ, and His willingness to free those in bondage. Christian people must encourage others to shun anything that offers help and guidance apart from Jesus Christ. Let there be Christians on every street, in every market, and in every country side telling men the truth of God’s Word, ready to help people become more like Jesus Christ! The only way to be saved and to live a holy life is through the Lord.

– CL

The Truth Shall Set You Free – Part I

2 Corinthians 11:13-15 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. (14) And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. (15) Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

Introduction

The Twenty-first Century is characterized by great technology and much learning. There is more information available to people at this moment than at any other time in history. The Internet, television entertainment, radio programs, and printed publications are means of conveying data. The great tragedy is that, even though there is much information, the world is starving for truth.

People are looking for help. When one considers the masses who seek out counsel and advice from various personalities and programs, it is clear that millions of people recognize their need of guidance. Is there deliverance to be found in those sources? Information is rampant, but truth is the need of the hour! Christians must know God’s word and speak the truth in love. Only the truth can set men free.

God reveals that the accuser of our brethren is deceptive and subtle. Eve learned well this lesson. The old serpent seeks to break the heart of God by blinding the lost to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and by leading God’s people into sin. Key teachings from God’s word must be heeded to combat the Devil’s agenda. For example, it is the Christian’s responsibility to look unto Jesus and declare the truth of God’s word everyday. Also, simply because something is moral and legal does not mean that it is biblical. Furthermore, the Devil is very knowledgeable and uses that which many would consider to be good to accomplish his goals. Finally, the only help for people is in the Lord Jesus Christ. Only the truth can set men free.

The Devil’s Desire is to Keep Men from the Truth

The Devil is revealed in the Bible as being subtle and deceitful (Genesis 3:1; Revelation 20:10). He is the enemy of God and of God’s people, and his desire is to prevent people from coming to the Lord, whether for salvation or any other need. He attempts to accomplish this goal through blinding the lost to the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ, through destroying confidence in the word of God, through infiltrating churches with unbelief and godless methods, and through offering substitutes for the power of God. Satan is as a roaring lion walking about seeking whom he may devour.

The Devil labors to prevent men from coming to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. II Corinthians 4:4 states, “…the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not….” For example, godless philosophies have flooded the world, particularly in education and psychology. Also, materialism and prosperity have become an epidemic; goods become idols when savored. Furthermore, many people believe they can claim to be Christians yet live unholy lives. This is a lie of the Devil, and it leaves others with no respect for the message of God. The Devil is glad to give men anything that will keep them from looking unto Son of God.

The old Accuser has worked tirelessly to destroy confidence in the word of God. In the Garden of Eden, the Serpent said, “Yea, hath God said…?” Satan knows if the Bible is not the only rule for faith and practice, churches will continue to be powerless, and more souls will go into an eternal Hell. The father of lies knows that good advice and moral standards apart from the authority of God’s word, will do nothing more than keep people from the liberty in Jesus Christ. Many preachers no longer preach the fiery truth of the Bible. Rather, they speak almost exactly like modern radio and television personalities, declaring prosperous lives, morality, and conservative principles all apart from the word of God. The Bible alone makes a person “perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (II Timothy 3:17).

The apostle Paul warned that there would be those who are guilty of “having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” It is evident through moral living apart from the Lord. This reason is why most philosophies behind public schools, self-help books, and therapy are deadly. There are sincere people who desire to help children, the mentally unsound, and those who have grave problems in their homes, yet it is all vain unless it grows out of God’s word. The devil has led men to believe that they can have their best lives now without giving preeminence to Christ. He promoted this idea to Eve when he said, “…Your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing GOOD and evil.” (Genesis 3:5, emphasis added) There is no power and there is no help without the Bible! Joshua 1:8 says that man’s goal ought to be obedience to God. One cannot be spiritual without being Scriptural!

The Devil walks by the door of a person’s life a thousand times, just to find it cracked open once. The Accuser floods the world with a form of godliness which contains no truth. He works to destroy confidence in God’s word, leading them to find truth from other sources. He labors to keep men from knowing Christ. He is not foolish; he is subtle. God’s people must awake to earnestly contend for the faith.

Christians Are Responsible for Giving the Truth to the World

Every Christian must be aware that it is his responsibility to look solely to the Lord and speak the truth in love. Hebrews 12:1-3 states,

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

The Lord uses the expression, “Looking unto Jesus.” How is the Christian life to be lived? It is to be lived by “looking unto Jesus,” which involves daily meditation in the word of God and earnest prayer before the throne of God. If a man has a need, should it not be the Saviour who is sought for the answer? It is the word of God which is our only rule for faith and practice. The Lord gives witness of His word’s power when he states, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” The Lord, though, does not end at that point; rather, he drives home the extent of the power of the word of God when he says, “That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”

The Creator knows everything that it is in man; He is to have the preeminence in every Christian’s life. This principle means that before the telephone is used or the television viewed, the prayer closed ought to first be consulted. The Bible declares in John 2:24-25, “But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, and needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.” Opinions and advice can be most helpful, and it is not wrong to seek them out. The Proverbs state, “In the multitude of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 24:6). However, let it always be godly counsel that is sought.

Counsel from radio and television personalities, among others, would not be necessary if more Christians practiced the admonition, “speaking the truth in love. (Ephesians 4:15).” The Devil has deceived many by influencing Christians to think that Bible teaching is only done by Pastors, preachers, and Sunday School teachers. God’s word is clear that all of His people are to be salt and light in the dark world in which they live (Matthew 5:1-15). This exhortation means that as a member of God’s family goes into the work place, school, the doctor’s office, or the restaurant, he ought to be seeking with the compassion of Christ other people that can be helped from the word of the Lord, regardless of the day of the week. Matthew 10:7 states, “And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Clearly, It is the responsibility of God’s people to unwaveringly declare the truth to the world

People are looking for help. When one considers the masses who seek out counsel and advice from various personalities and programs, it is clear that millions of people recognize their need of guidance. Is there deliverance to be found in those sources? Deliverance does not come from good advice and sharp thinking; it comes only from Jesus Christ and His truth. Truth is the need of the hour!

– CL

It is Enough for Me to Know

Habakkuk 1:1-4 The burden which Habakkuk the prophet did see. (2) O LORD, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! even cry out unto thee of violence, and thou wilt not save! (3) Why dost thou show me iniquity, and cause me to behold grievance? for spoiling and violence are before me: and there are that raise up strife and contention. (4) Therefore the law is slacked, and judgment doth never go forth: for the wicked doth compass about the righteous; therefore wrong judgment proceedeth.

Sometimes news is received that is not wanted, and painful truths are discovered that one does not wish to bear. Often, people try to hide from such matters, even wishing that certain days had never existed. Perhaps these were some of the feelings of Habakkuk. God told His prophet of the righteous judgment of the LORD upon the sins of the Jewish people. The Lord spoke of destruction that would come to the nation and of griefs that would be shared. For a patriot like Habakkuk, this was news that he wished he had never received.

Many people can relate to the feelings of the man of God as he asked a serious question in the third verse of Habakkuk. The prophet asked the question, “Why?” Why was God allowing such chaos? Why would God bring death and suffering? Many, many people have asked the same question. It is asked when one battles an illness, such as cancer; it is asked when a loved one passes away; it is asked when great destruction comes to a city; and it is asked when a child loses his life through an act of cruelty. There are countless moments when the question is asked, and the answer lies in the heart of God.

Through recent events in my life and the lives of my family members, God has dealt with me over this matter. In His graciousness, He has taught me that it is not for me to know why. It is only for me to know that the LORD is God. The Lord has reminded me that what He has given me is enough. I do not hold all of the answers to the question, for God has chosen to reserve them unto Himself. However, I am not troubled, and I have purposed not to demand an answer of the Almighty. What God has told me is enough for me to know.

1 – It is Enough for Me to Know that God is Sovereign (Ephesians 1:11)

The Scriptures clearly teach that God worketh all things after the counsel of His own will. Nothing is beyond His control, whether great or small. He doeth all things well and by His will. Every blade of grass is where the Lord would have it be. Every bird is in the place of God’s choosing. Everything is worked according to God’s plan and not my own. Men often quote Romans 8:28, yet the good of which the verse speaks is not what I think to be good but what God declares to be good. Men tremble at the thought of God’s sovereignty, as well they should, but they would be terrified if it was possible that something should be beyond the control of God. I do not know “why,” but I know that He is sovereign.

2 – It is Enough for Me to Know that God Would Have All Men to be Saved (I Timothy 2:3-6)

God’s desire is for all men to come to know Him and be forgiven of sin. Not every man will repent of his sin and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and many are even now in Hell. Yet, God is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. This means that my family and my friends are under the eye of God, as He would have them to be saved. I long for my children and my family to be saved. It is an unbearable thought that any of them would spend eternity without Christ, damned by their own sins. Yet, I am comforted beyond words to know that God desires their salvation more than I ever have or will. In fact, my desire to see them saved comes from God. I do not know “why,” but I know that God desires for all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.

3 – It is Enough for Me to Know that God Loves All Men (John 3:16; Romans 8:35-39)

What joy to know that God loves all men! No man has ever yet lived that did not have the beautiful love of Jesus Christ. I have done such awful wickedness in my life. I am guilty of sin, but my God loves me still. He has no delight in my wickedness, but He loves me, sinful though I be. There are people in my life I love so dearly. I laugh with them, and I cry with them. Yet, my great God loves them with a love I could not begin to understand or describe. There is no power that could ever separate men from the love of God. I do not know why some endure pain, heartache, and suffering, but I know God loves them. A moment or a life of grief cannot compare to the love of God. I do not know “why,” but I know that He loves all men.

4 – It Is Enough for Me to Know that God is Praying for Me (Romans 8:26; Romans 8:34)

It is so encouraging when someone tells me, “I am praying for you.” I am glad people do pray for me, but I want it to sink into my heart and soul that Jesus Christ is praying for me. The Bible says that the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us. The Bible says that Christ rose again and also maketh intercession for us. Every fault, every weakness, every burden, every joy, every path, every decision, every valley, and every mountain in my life is brought before the throne of God by the prayers of my Saviour. I do not know “why,” but I know that I have the prayers of He who knows why.

5 – It Is Enough for Me to Know that God is Merciful to Me (Job 2:10-11)

As Job watched everything in his life stripped away from him, including his cattle, his wealth, his children, and his health, he still believed that God had been merciful unto him. When Job’s wife told him to curse God and die, Job’s reply was simply, “…Shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil?” In other words, who am I to think that I do not deserve that which I do not want? Who am I to think I should not have to deal with trouble? At this moment, I am not in Hell for my own sins; God has been merciful to me. Maybe the rest of my days on earth will be filled with heartache and grief, but God has been merciful to me. If men estimate my life to be hopeless, useless, and worthless, yet my God has been merciful to me a sinner. I do not know “why,” but I know that He is merciful.

People ask, “Why?” At times, I have done the same. God has reminded me, though, that there are some secrets which God has chosen to keep unto Himself. Who am I to demand an answer of God? What God has taught me is enough for me. How shall I live each day? By His grace, I shall live each day walking in faith, not knowing what tomorrow holds but knowing who holds tomorrow.

Habakkuk asked, “Why?” in the third verse. God’s answer in the fifth verse should be well heeded. God said, “I will work a work in your days….” God is at work. The Lord is God, and that is enough for me to know. — CL

Waiting in the Will of God

One lesson which God’s people must learn is waiting on the Lord. Most people want everything to happen their way and on their time table, but God does not work that way. God has His own way and His own time table. Therefore, all men must wait on the Lord.
In I Samuel 26, the Bible illustrates this great truth in the lives of David and Saul. As one examines the conflict between the two men, he will learn of the Lord and His perfect timing.

1 Samuel 26:1-7 And the Ziphites came unto Saul to Gibeah, saying, Doth not David hide himself in the hill of Hachilah, which is before Jeshimon? (2) Then Saul arose, and went down to the wilderness of Ziph, having three thousand chosen men of Israel with him, to seek David in the wilderness of Ziph. (3) And Saul pitched in the hill of Hachilah, which is before Jeshimon, by the way. But David abode in the wilderness, and he saw that Saul came after him into the wilderness. (4) David therefore sent out spies, and understood that Saul was come in very deed. (5) And David arose, and came to the place where Saul had pitched: and David beheld the place where Saul lay, and Abner the son of Ner, the captain of his host: and Saul lay in the trench, and the people pitched round about him. (6) Then answered David and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah, brother to Joab, saying, Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp? And Abishai said, I will go down with thee. (7) So David and Abishai came to the people by night: and, behold, Saul lay sleeping within the trench, and his spear stuck in the ground at his bolster: but Abner and the people lay round about him.

In these opening versus, we read about how Saul had gathered 3,000 chosen men of Israel and had went after David, hoping to take the young man’s life. Saul was the king of Israel and also David’s father-in-law. This is a sad scene in the Bible of a broken home, a home wrecked by pride, and the product of living for the flesh. “But thanks be to God who giveth us the victory through Lord Jesus Christ.” The story does not end that way. David had previously been anointed king of Israel by Samuel. Saul was still on the throne of Israel but was rejected of God. David was on his way to being a king, but while he was on his way, he had to wait on the Lord. In this chapter, God delivers David’s enemy to him, yet David dealt with Saul by waiting on the Lord.

1. David knew his place in the will of God

1 Samuel 26:7-11 So David and Abishai came to the people by night: and, behold, Saul lay sleeping within the trench, and his spear stuck in the ground at his bolster: but Abner and the people lay round about him. (8) Then said Abishai to David, God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand this day: now therefore let me smite him, I pray thee, with the spear even to the earth at once, and I will not smite him the second time. (9) And David said to Abishai, Destroy him not: for who can stretch forth his hand against the LORD’s anointed, and be guiltless? (10) David said furthermore, As the LORD liveth, the LORD shall smite him; or his day shall come to die; or he shall descend into battle, and perish. (11) The LORD forbid that I should stretch forth mine hand against the LORD’s anointed: but, I pray thee, take thou now the spear that is at his bolster, and the cruse of water, and let us go.

Saul had been delivered into David’s hands! Saul and all 3,000 men were asleep. What a picture given in the Bible! Saul is asleep with his speak stuck in the ground near him. Also, Abner and the soldiers lay round about Saul. That may not have seemed big until it is learned that Abishai and David were within arm’s reach of Saul. The Bible says in I Samuel 26:8 that God had delivered Saul into David’s hand. David’s moment had seemingly come. He was anointed to be king, and his heart’s desire was to do what God wanted him to do. Here was his chance to kill. How did David respond? What should he do? What did he do?

I Samuel 26:9-11 tells of David’s decision. The young man understood that it was not his choice of whether or not Saul was going to die. It was God’s choice. The Bible says that Saul was God’s anointed, and David understood that whoever put his hand against the Lord’s man would be guilty before God.
I Samuel 26:10 states that David knew that God would deal with Saul in God’s own way and in God’s own time. God’s children must learn that choices like David’s are for learning and good. God shall remove the barriers and direct the lives of His children. This work belongs solely to God. David waited on God to do His work; Christians must do the same today.

2. David displayed love to his enemy.

1 Samuel 26:12-23 So David took the spear and the cruse of water from Saul’s bolster; and they got them away, and no man saw it, nor knew it, neither awaked: for they were all asleep; because a deep sleep from the LORD was fallen upon them. (13) Then David went over to the other side, and stood on the top of a hill afar off; a great space being between them: (14) And David cried to the people, and to Abner the son of Ner, saying, Answerest thou not, Abner? Then Abner answered and said, Who art thou that criest to the king? (15) And David said to Abner, Art not thou a valiant man? and who is like to thee in Israel? wherefore then hast thou not kept thy lord the king? for there came one of the people in to destroy the king thy lord. (16) This thing is not good that thou hast done. As the LORD liveth, ye are worthy to die, because ye have not kept your master, the LORD’s anointed. And now see where the king’s spear is, and the cruse of water that was at his bolster. (17) And Saul knew David’s voice, and said, Is this thy voice, my son David? And David said, It is my voice, my lord, O king. (18) And he said, Wherefore doth my lord thus pursue after his servant? for what have I done? or what evil is in mine hand? (19) Now therefore, I pray thee, let my lord the king hear the words of his servant. If the LORD have stirred thee up against me, let him accept an offering: but if they be the children of men, cursed be they before the LORD; for they have driven me out this day from abiding in the inheritance of the LORD, saying, Go, serve other gods. (20) Now therefore, let not my blood fall to the earth before the face of the LORD: for the king of Israel is come out to seek a flea, as when one doth hunt a partridge in the mountains. (21) Then said Saul, I have sinned: return, my son David: for I will no more do thee harm, because my soul was precious in thine eyes this day: behold, I have played the fool, and have erred exceedingly. (22) And David answered and said, Behold the king’s spear! and let one of the young men come over and fetch it. (23) The LORD render to every man his righteousness and his faithfulness: for the LORD delivered thee into my hand today, but I would not stretch forth mine hand against the LORD’s anointed.

How easy to speak of loving an enemy, but how hard to practice such a great commandment! David had the opportunity to kill his enemy, but, instead, he merely took Saul’s spear and cruise of water. David and Abishai then left Saul’s camp and moved quietly to the top of a hill, on the other side of Saul’s company. Then, David began shouting to Abner from a distance. As he spoke to Abner, Saul knew it was David’s voice, so Saul responded to David. From their conversation, it is seen that David was kind and respectful to the man who would be his enemy. David reacted with love, compassion, and mercy. David’s actions are exemplary of the way God’s people should love their enemies.
I Peter 2:19-24 states that Christ is the example. Just as Christ was reviled but did not revile again, so, too, must God’s people. When Christians suffer, they are not to threaten. They are to be kind one to another, loving others even when they receive nothing in return.
I Peter 2:20 states, “…When ye do well and suffer for it, ye shall take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.” This verse describes what David illustrated. David held great patience, waiting on God’s will to be done. David waited for God to handle Saul.

3. David put his life in God’s hands

David’s trust in God was the crux of the matter. Here, the rubber meets the road. The only way for David to react in a way that pleased God was by putting his life into God’s hands. As did David, so must God’s people do today.
David’s words are recorded in I Samuel 26:24. The young man states, “let him deliver me out of all tribulation.” David did not reserve part of his life for himself and give only part to the Lord. David gave all to the LORD, and in the LORD did David rest. In complete submission David rested. What problems do Christians face today? What enemy seems to be in the way? One must give his all to Jesus. By trusting the Lord and waiting on the Lord, one shall find rest. All people must learn these lessons, such as preachers, who have no church to pastor; students, who have no money for Bible college; new Christian, who does not seem to understand his Bible studies. In all of these matters and in so much more, one must wait on God.
I Peter 2:23 speaks of Christ by saying, “Who when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously.”
I Peter 2 declares that Christ is the example. The Bible says that Christ committed himself. Christians must deposit their lives into the mighty hands of God. In that deposit, they will find that God will work in the lives. God will put His people where they need to be and when they need to be there. God is always on time, and His ways are always perfect. Amen. — JS

How to Be Saved – I Corinthians 15:1-4

What does the Word of God say about being saved?  The word, saved, is used so flippantly that it seems to have lost much of its biblical meanings in everyday conversation.  In other words, if one asked most people, especially in the southern parts of the United States, he would find that everyone is “saved.”  The Bible says in II Corinthians 13:5, “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith….”  The most important matter in any person’s life is this:   Have I been born again?

Becoming a Christian is not about going to church or being involved in religious activities.  It is about Jesus Christ. It is not knowing about the Lord; it is knowing the Lord.  To be born again, one must repent (change his mind – i.e. I am wrong, and God is right about me being a sinner) and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who died for our sins, was buried, rose from the dead. He ascended to Heaven and is at the right hand of the Father. There is no other way to be saved except by Him (Acts 4:12; John 14:6).

When God saves a man, He makes Him into a new creature; the man is not the same anymore (II Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:1).  God does not give a man a new suit of clothes; he puts a new man into the suit.  A man who claims to be saved and can live in sin and darkness is NOT saved (I John 3:9-10); he is a liar.

The following video is a brief message from I Corinthians 15:1-4.  The earnest plea of the Scriptures is that people would hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ and trust Him as Saviour.   

If you have doubts and fear about whether or not you know Christ, or you know for certain that you have never been born again, please feel free to contact our church.  We will do everything possible to show you from God’s word what it is to be saved.  You may reach our church at baptisttabernacle@mbt-church.com or at (423)-581-8370.

CL

The Word of God, As It Is in Truth

“For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.” — I Thessalonians 2:13

How many times have preachers proclaimed the great need for Christians to simply read and study their Bibles?  God’s people speak of it, and they claim to give it a high regard. Yet, when all of the Sunday-suited hypocrisy is laid aside, many Christians are ready to lay aside the Bible for other matters. The flesh absolutely hates and despises the reading of God’s word. If not for God working in men both to will and to do of His good pleasure (Phil. 2:13), they would not look to the Scriptures at all. The very thing men seek to lay aside by flesh is the very thing they need more than the breath they breathe.

What is the Bible? According to this verse, it is that which worketh IN men. How is it that a sinful creature can be used of God for His work?  How is it that God can change a man’s life?  This verse is encouraging, for it tells Christians that God’s word is at work IN them. Yes, the word of God is still able to work in one who is filled with pride and one who has a great history of failures! It cuts through pretenses, efforts, and ambitions. It works IN those who hear - in the aspects of their lives that are open and that which they scramble to keep secret. It makes men more like Christ; it guides them in decisions that need to be made. It comforts men when they are broken, and it breaks men that He might comfort them. It enables God’s people to see more clearly the sin that they hold. It opens their hearts to intimacy with God. It is the Word of God.

The LORD declares that His word is to be received as it is — the Word of God. People are not to simply read a few chapters each day as a chore; they are to receive it as it is — the Word of God. When the Bible is preached, one must be careful to receive it as it is — the Word of God. God wants Christians to see the Bible as it is — the Word of God.

I Thessalonians 2:14 speaks of people that the word of God transformed into followers of the churches of God and who were willing to suffer for Christ’s sake.  Can all believers now say that they are willing to follow and to suffer like these believers did?  Whether one is ready or is not ready, it is a matter of his relationship to the Word of God.  All that one is for Christ, he owes to Christ and to His quickening Word.  All that one is not for Christ, he owes only to himself and to his lack of the Word of God (John 15:1-8).

No doubt, Christians have heard for a long time of the need of the Word of God.  May they be a people who have that knowledge not only in their heads but in their hearts.   — CL

It Was Jesus

This beautiful story in John 5:1-18 of the lame man who was healed by the Lord at the pool of Bethesda is encouraging.  Bethesda means, “House of Kindness,” or, “Mercy.” What a wonderful truth God reveals; Jesus is still the house of kindness where sinners can be healed.

This particular man was one among many who had diseases and infirmities. He had been in his condition for thirty-eight years. In verse six, the Bible says, “When Jesus saw him lie.”  This man’s life did not change when he went to the pool of Bethesda; he had been doing that for thirty-eight years. His life did not change when other people were healed at these waters, nor did it change because he bemoaned his condition. His life forever changed when Jesus saw him.  There is nothing that anyone can do to help his own sinful case.  One’s life is forever touched and change when Jesus sees him.

There was a precious statement made by the man who was healed.  He told the Jews, “It was Jesus, which had made him whole.” How simple, yet how glorious is this great testimony. He said nothing of the pool of Bethesda. He said nothing of angel which troubled the waters. All he said was that there was a man who had made him whole. It was Jesus. So often, Christians try to explain what God has done for them through so many man-made and confusing terms. Other times, they sheepishly give the credit and praise to other circumstances or peope for the differences made in their hearts and lives. The truth is that every Christian’s testimony is only this: It was Jesus which made him whole.

No one else could do what Jesus did. No one else could remove the stain of sin from man’s record. No one else could wash sinners whiter than snow and make them whole in the sight of God. It was Jesus! How encouraging is this precious reminder of God’s grace, yet receipients of this grace so often fail to declare to the world Who it was that has done everything for them. May God help His people to simply say, “It was Jesus.”                                                  — CL

The Glory of Children Are Their Fathers

“Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.”

                                                                                                            – Proverbs 17:6

           

            An old man’s glory is his grandchildren.        Proverbs 17:6

 

            A child’s glory is his father.    Proverbs 17:6

 

            A young man’s glory is his strength.    Proverbs 20:29

 

            A man’s glory is his woman.    1Corinthians  11:7

 

            A woman’s glory is her hair.    1Corinthians  11:15

 

 

            We all glory in something, and the Bible says that the glory of children are their fathers.  This truth should make every father grateful to be one.  Yet, let us be fathers our children can glory in.  Sadly, so many children have fathers in whom they can take no glory.  Their glory has become shame.  In some cases, their fathers left them or abused them; in other situations, their fathers are involved in open sin.  Perhaps the saddest of all is that some have fathers who are decent, upstanding, moral men, but they do not follow Jesus Christ and teach their sons the same.

 

One third of all children conceived today are aborted.  Another third of all children conceived today are raised in a home without a father.  The last third of all children conceived today are raised in a home with a mother and father, but as we all know, not all of them are good ones.

 

If a child cannot glory in his father, in what will he glory?  We grieve over the condition of today’s young people.  Perhaps our youth are simply looking for substitutes for what their fathers should have been.

 

As fathers, let us be fathers our children can glory in.  Let us love their mothers, and provide for our homes.  Let us be honest men.  Let us be men who love God and demonstrate that love before our sons.

                                                                                                                        – CD

Abiding in Christ

 “Abide in me, and I in you.  As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.  I am the vine, ye are the branches:  He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit:  for without me ye can do nothing.”  –  John 15:4-5

 

 

The number one requirement of Christ to His disciples was to abide in Him.  As Christians we are powerless and useless in ourselves apart from Christ.  But, as we abide in Him, He does a work through us to reach and affect others. 

 

            The word abide means “to dwell there; to stay connected.” 

 

 

He refers to us as branches and Himself as the vine.  All we must do is stay connected, and He’ll bring forth fruit in us abundant and full. 

 

 

To abide in Him is to read the Word of God each day, and to commune back with Him in prayer.  It is to have no known sin unconfessed.  The abiding one will bring all burdens unto Him, and will live a life in which Christ is welcomed and pleased. 

 

Christ says that in this, is where fruit is brought forth. 

 

The fruits are referring to:

1. the fruits of the Spirit
2. the fruits of our good works
3. the fruits of souls

And He concludes with “for without me ye can do nothing.”

 

May God help us to “abide in Him” and be the Christians he would have us to be.

 

                                                                                                                                        — CD

 

 

 

 

Whom Discretion Preserves and Understanding Keeps

Proverbs 2:10-11 When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:

The book of Proverbs is a book of God’s wisdom. Much of it was written by the wisest man that ever lived: King Solomon. Solomon often speaks in the book as a father would to his son, even using expressions like, “My son.” He often compares the wise and the foolish, the simple and the subtile, and the godly and ungodly. The Lord reveals that man may live life by the wisdom of God, or he may live life foolishly and of his own knowledge.

In Proverbs 2:10-22, Solomon speaks of being preserved by discretion and kept by understanding. This should be desired by all people who know the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour. The word, discretion, has the idea of, “purpose,” or, “plan.” Discretion is that discernment which enables one to act according to God’s will. Understanding carries the idea of, “intelligence.” Understanding relates to an intelligence in the things of God.

Many people have lost their godly influence and their testimony of love and zeal for God because they were not preserved by discretion and kept by understanding. The child of God cannot hope to live the Christian life in a manner that is well-pleasing to God apart from the wisdom of the LORD. Without seeking and obeying the counsels of God, man will fail. Because of the evil lurking inside of each person, whether Christian or lost, each man naturally follows after evil and that which pleases the flesh. It takes God and the power of His word to preserve and keep those who will live the Christian life and enable men to live apart from fleshly lusts.

The Scriptures are very clear about the man whom discretion preserves and understanding keeps.

1. He Will Be Delivered from the Way of the Evil Man (Proverbs 2:12-15)

God’s word issues a strong warning. There is a path known as “the way of the evil man.” It may not be openly labeled as such by the world, but it is the way of the evil man. It may be a way that is beautifully painted by the world, but God’s face is turned against this way.

The way of the evil man is characterized by speaking froward things, or things not complying with that which is godly (Proverbs 2:12). The idea of perverseness is often associated with frowardness. There is no doubt that so-called Christians often give little to no thought about speaking froward things. The way of the evil man is also labeled by leaving the paths of uprightness (Proverbs 2:13). It is a turning from that which is known to be right. For example, many professed Christians willingly yield themselves to the evil of pornography only hours after attending a service dedicated to the worship of God. The way of the evil man also is a path in which men rejoice and delight in the wickedness of themselves and others (Proverbs 2:14-15). It is a path in which the things of God are rejected for that which delights the sinfulness of man. Every Christian should ask himself, “in what am I delighting?” God’s people are to be preserved by discretion and kept by understanding.

 

2. He Will Be Delivered From the Strange Woman (Proverbs 2:16-19)

Another warning is given to men from the Bible; it concerns the way of the strange woman. One could think of a “strange woman” as any person God has not given him. For example, to a married woman, every man apart from her husband is strange to her in the context of sexual relations. The Bible speaks very sharply regarding this way.

The stranger, or the way of the strange woman, is said to flatter with words (Proverbs 2:16). Every Christian should desire sexual purity unto the Lord; therefore, they must realize that words can be snares. It is not pleasing to God to give ear to the sweet, charming words that come from the lips of one who is not a God-given spouse. Many people use words of promise and comfort, only to snare and entrap a child of God and rob him or her of purity. No man who has yielded to the flattering words of the strange woman will ever be able to look at his wife or his children in the same way again.

The stranger also forsakes the guide of her youth (Proverbs 2:17). This strange woman cares nothing for the husband she married in her youth, who became her authority and her guide. She promises to give pleasure to another, all the while abandoning her husband for her own selfish ends. If she will forsake her husband, she will forsake the lovers that she only compares to her husband.

Furthermore, the stranger forgets the covenant of her God (Proverbs 2:17). Sin is never unseen by the eye of God. The stranger disregards the commandments of God. Those who follow the way of the strange woman do not merely bring shame to other men; they invite the wrath and anger of the eternal God upon their wicked lives (Hebrews 13:4).

God’s people are to be preserved by discretion and kept by understanding.

3. He Will Walk in the Way of Good Men (Proverbs 2:20-22)

God’s word declares that there is a way of good men. In Scripture, good men are not merely those who perform charitable acts and offer kind words to others. They are men who obey God, regardless of the outcome in the eyes of the world.

Discretion and understanding may not lead God’s child into a path which is decorated with earthly comforts and pleasures; but they will lead the Christian in the way of good men. The Christian who lives yielded to God will strive only to keep that which is right before God (Proverbs 2:20). The Christian lives by faith, believing that God’s word is true and knowing that it is the upright who shall dwell in the land of God’s promise (Proverbs 2:21). God’s blessings are not poured out upon disobedience. Discretion and understanding will not offer all of the desires of men’s hearts, but they will always lead in paths upon which God delights and blesses. However, those who refuse to bow before the Lord and seek His face will find that no matter how deeply entrenched they may are in comforts, pleasures, and favors before men, God will root them out (Proverbs 2:22).

God’s people are to be preserved by discretion and kept by understanding.

If a man desire to live by discretion and understanding, how will he obtain these treasures? The answer lies in Proverbs 2:10: “When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul.” Scripture is clear that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). To live a life given to the Lord, it must begin with the Lord. It does not come from making a list and following certain practices each day; it comes from a communion with Jesus Christ in prayer and meditation of God’s word. It comes through an abiding with Christ and a confession of sins. It comes through humility before the Lord and reverence unto His name in one’s own personal life on a daily basis.

The first word of Proverbs 2:10 is the word, when. Every Christian should determine that his “when” will be today. Every Christian should purpose to not live another moment apart from this beautiful “when” of Scripture.

God’s people are to be preserved by discretion and kept by understanding.

                                                                                                                                        — CL