Category Archives: Salvation

God’s Wisdom in the Cross

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The cross is such a fundamental part of what Christianity professes that it can become all too easy for us to pass it over without much thought. The cross? Of course it is vital. Of course we must preach it. Yet how often do we let the power and wisdom of the cross sink in and affect us in a practical way? Take another look at the first two chapters of 1 Corinthians.

Writing within 25 years of the actual events, Paul writes, “The word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1:18). “God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe” (1:21). To the Jews, the cross is a stumbling block; to Greeks it is foolishness. But to those who are called, whether Jew or Greek, “Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men” (1:24-25). He continues into chapter two with the same theme. It is a theme that runs consistently through Scripture: God chooses that which appears to be weak and makes it strong so that all may see that God is ultimately to be glorified.

But the cross? How does this manifest His wisdom and power? While there may be a number of ways to answer this question, please think about the following:

1. The cross shows God’s wisdom through a demonstration of the horror of sin on the one hand, and the power of His love on the other. The crucifixion of Jesus is the “show and tell” of what God thinks about sin. It is also the strongest demonstration of His love for a lost world (Rom 5:6-11). God abhors sins, and Jesus despised the shame associated with the cross, but it is due to sin that Jesus went to the cross. Hatred and love are equally demonstrated. What greater way to show both to a world that needs to understand both? Such a display shows the foolishness of mankind in taking part in sin, but also shows the extent to which God goes to show His love and bring us back to Him.

2. The cross shows God’s wisdom in that it demonstrates that the message really did come from Him. This point actually serves an apologetic purpose. Think about it. Who in the world would have dreamed up the idea of a Savior of the world dying on a cross? This is a not a message that the Jews would have concocted or accepted, for “cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree” (Deut 21:23; Gal 3:13). The idea that a few Jews just made the story up and were then able to sell it so successfully is beyond credulity. Further, this is not a message that Gentiles would have made up. To think that pagan Gentiles would dream up a story of a crucified Jewish Savior is ludicrous. Neither the Jewish culture nor the Greek culture of the time can explain the story of Jesus as the crucified King who can save the whole world from sin. This is a message that can find plausible explanation only in the wisdom of God.

3. The cross displays the wisdom and power of God because it is only the first part to the story. Implied in the idea of God’s power is the resurrection. Paul did not only preach a dead Jesus. He preached a Jesus who overcame death. He preached a Jesus who “became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption” (1:30). “Christ and Him crucified” does not end at the cross itself, as if the cross, and the cross alone, did the job. God wanted to demonstrate His power in a way that could not be feasibly denied. Jesus didn’t just faint. He didn’t die in His sleep. He was violently executed in the worst and bloodiest manner. To be raised up after that would indeed be a great display of power. By the end of Paul’s epistle, the resurrection is exactly what he argues (ch. 15). God’s wisdom and power are vindicated through the death and resurrection of Jesus!

The cross is not made up by mere men. If men concocted the story of salvation we would undoubtedly see something very different from a Roman cross. We might see something akin to the pagan myths. Yet contrary to what we sometimes hear, the story of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus is not the stuff that make up the myths. It is much simpler and based in actual time and space history. The wisdom of God displayed through the cross is a demonstration of God Himself breaking into history to deal directly with sin and evil, and to show His creation how much He desires for us to be in His fellowship.

By Doy Moyer

We Preach Christ Crucified

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“We preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness” (I Corinthians 1:23). Let there be no mistake: Preaching “Christ crucified” is gospel preaching. The “word of the cross” is the power of God to save the lost (I Corinthians 1:18, 21; Romans 1:16). It reveals how God forgives sinners and what sinners must do to receive God’s forgiveness (Romans 1:17; 3:21-26; Acts 2:37). It must be preached.

The apostle Paul observed that when he preached at Corinth he“ determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified” (I Corinthians 2:2). Some hastily conclude that to preach Jesus is to preach only the life and death of Jesus and not the doctrine recorded in the inspired epistles by Christ’s apostles and prophets. We are told, in effect, that Jesus is more important than His doctrine. Yet, He is “the Truth,” which indisputably involves His doctrine (John 14:6; 7:16-17). Such minimizing of doctrine allows for the subjective interpretation of Scripture (“choose the doctrine of your choice”). Such a view affirms that Jesus approves of each person deciding what doctrine is important and what is unimportant. We are scolded when we teach there is one body of doctrine (teaching) that is truth for all (John 17:17). “Just preach Christ and leave others alone,” we are told.

In order to preach the “message of the cross” we must know what that preaching includes (I Corinthians 1:18, 21). Does it include the plan of salvation? Does it include principles of divine authority? Does it include the work and organization of the church? Does it include teaching about sin? Does it include instruction on human obedience? Does it include preaching the fulfillment of prophecy? The Scriptures answer“yes” to each of these questions. Let us see what it means to “preach Christ crucified.”

In Acts 8:5, Philip “preached Christ” to the city of Samaria. What did that entail? In Acts 8:12 we learn that he preached the “things concerning the kingdom of God.” Without question, preaching Christ is preaching about His kingdom, the church of Christ (Matthew 16:18-19). After all, the church is His body and fullness (Ephesians 1:22-23). How can one preach Christ and not preach about His body, the church? How can one preach Christ and not preach that He is the savior of His body, the church (Ephesians 5:23)?

When Philip “preached Christ” he preached concerning “the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 8:12). He proclaimed Christ’s authority; His right to rule our lives (Matthew 28:18-19; Ephesians 1:20-23). To fully preach Christ we must preach His authority. Preaching how the authority of Christ is established and applied in Scripture should not be denounced as not preaching Jesus. Just the opposite is true; we will preach about Bible authority when we preach Christ. Whatever we say and do must be supported by His authority (Colossians 3:17). And, by the way, His authority is revealed to us in “the word of His power,” His New Testament – “the word of the truth of the gospel” (Colossians 1:5; Hebrews 1:1-3; John 16:13; II Timothy 3:16-17).

When Philip “preached Christ” he preached baptism, since “both men and women were baptized” (Acts 8:12). This means he preached about sin and how sinners are saved (Acts 2:37-38, 40). This means he taught the plan of salvation when he preached Christ to the Samaritans (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 1:8; 8:1, 4). Those who believed the gospel obeyed it and were saved (Acts 8:12-13). We conclude that Philip preached the continuing responsibilities of faithful, obedient discipleship (Acts 8:13). None should object to preaching the responsibilities of discipleship (such as moral purity, Romans 12:1-2) as not preaching Christ. “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving” (Colossians 2:6-7).

When Philip “preached Christ” he preached fulfilled prophecy. In Acts 8:35, Philip “preached Jesus” from Isaiah 53:7-8, instructing the Ethiopian that Jesus fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy. The Jesus whom we preach is the suffering Christ of Old Testament prophecy (Acts 17:2-3).

The New Testament of Christ is the apostles’ doctrine that was preached in the first century (Romans 16:25). It is what lost souls heard, believed and obeyed in order to be saved from their sins (Acts 2:40-41). The gospel they preached was not their own; it was revealed to them by the Spirit of God (John 16:12-15; Galatians 1:11-12; I Thessalonians 2:13). It was the “word of the cross” then, and it continues to be the “word of the cross” today (I Corinthians 1:18; I Peter 1:22-25).

We will not make distinctions in God’s word where there are none. To “preach Christ crucified” includes preaching that Jesus fulfilled God’s prophetic plan to save sinners. It includes His life, death, resurrection and exaltation; it includes man’s faith and obedience; it includes the church of Christ and the authority of Christ over our lives. We must preach the “whole counsel of God,” the inspired Scriptures (II Timothy 3:16-4:2; Acts 20:27). To do less is not preaching Christ crucified to the world.

 

By Joe Price

The Lord’s Supper

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Christians seeking to follow the New Testament pattern gather each first day of the week to eat the Lord’s Supper (Acts 20:7). They also realize that this Supper is to be eaten in remembrance of Jesus’ death and with a full awareness of what they are doing (1 Corinthians 11:23- 29). Since those who eat and drink in an unworthy manner become weak, sick and even spiritually dead (1 Corinthians 11:30), the disciple who does the opposite and partakes in a worthy manner finds in the Lord’s Supper and its communion with the body and blood of Jesus (1 Corinthians 10:16) an opportunity to be strengthened spiritually.

The following thoughts are intended to help each to examine himself and partake of this divinely given feast in a way that will please God and at the same time be beneficial to him. In the following meditations the greatest benefits will be obtained by those who can personalize each thought as Paul did in Galatians 2:20 when he wrote of Jesus “who loved me and gave himself for me.” Please read each mediation as having direct and personal reference to you.

Meditate on the Following…

Jesus left the glories of heaven. What kind of love was required to move One to leave a place of perfection and come to this world,

especially when He knew the suffering He would face? “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.” (2 Corinthians 8:9)

See Him as He was “exceedingly sorrowful” at Gethsemane. Appreciate the agony as He prayed that the cup might pass from Him, but insisted that He would carry through with the Father’s will so that sinners might be saved. (Matthew 26:36-44)

Imagine the pain and disappointment as Judas betrays Him; the other disciples forsake Him and flee; and Peter denies three times that he even knows Him. (Matthew 26:47-56, 69-75)

Go with Jesus as He is mocked, blindfolded (Mark 14:65), spat on, and slapped. (Matthew 26:67, 68)

Try to feel some of the pain He experienced when the brutal scourging cut the flesh of His back. Think about the humiliation of the scarlet robe, crown of thorns, and reed scepter. And don’t forget why He did it. (Matthew 27:26-31)

See Him carrying His cross to Calvary (John 18:17) and remember that bearing your cross for Him (Luke 9:23) is a reasonable request from One who literally bore His cross for you.

At Calvary the Lord was subjected to shame and humiliation as His clothes were stripped from Him and divided among the soldiers. Insults continued to be hurled at Him. And of course He suffered that horrible, incredibly painful death on the cross (Matthew 27:35-51). “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5)

All these thoughts are deserving of consideration during the Lord’s Supper, but there is more. While this memorial is intended to be a time of serious reflection, it is not intended to be a depressing experience. Consider a few more meditations celebrating the victory Jesus has gained for all who accept His grace.

Travel with Mary Magdalene and the other women to the tomb on Sunday morning and see their joy when they learn that He has risen. Watch Thomas’ doubts disappear as he proclaims, “My Lord and My God!” (John 20:28)

Walk with the apostles out to the Mount of Olives and see the risen Savior ascend into heaven (Acts 1:4-12) to be highly exalted and given the “name which is above every name.” (Philippians 2:8-11)

Rejoice in the fact that while in heaven He serves as a sympathizing mediator, knowing the struggles you face. (Hebrews 4:14-16)

Allow the Lord’s Supper to remind you that He is coming again to deliver His people and allow them to live with Him forever. “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18). Also see 2 Thessalonians 2:6-10; 1 Peter 1:3-9; et al.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

Think on these things.

By John Gibson

Good News, Bad News Postings

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A couple of months ago we announced that we would begin to run a series titled, “Good News, Bad News” on the social media site, Facebook. While making the announcement, we also encouraged our own members to like and share the posts (of course, only if they truly agreed with the post) on their own walls as the extra likes and shares help create additional traffic for our social media site and potential visitors to our website. (Of course, the church is not in the “business” of creating viral posts, however, by reaching a greater audience we give others a better opportunity to be exposed to the word of God.)

The purpose behind the series “Good News, Bad News” was to show that in the darkest moments humans will experience in this lifetime, there is a beacon of hope if one will turn to God. The purpose of the series was intended to highlight the fact that apart from God man is nothing, but with Him man has the opportunity to live life as God intended it to be lived. The purpose of the series was to emphasize that without God there is only bad news, but with God we can see the Good News while surrounded by bad news.

I am happy to report that the series “Good News, Bad News” has been received favorably. Everyone’s efforts in helping spread the Good News of Jesus Christ are appreciated. Lord willing, the plan is to continue with the series.

Below is a compilation of four of our postings on Facebook. These are shared with the intention that those who are not on Facebook may feel a part of the work and may be encouraged by them. Hopefully those who have seen these before can also benefit from them

Troubles of Life: the Bad News and the Good News

The Bad News: The reality is that from the cradle to the grave we will all experience troubles and difficulties.

The Good News: God cares! “…Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

The Tree of Life: the Bad News and the Good News

The Bad News: When Adam and Eve were disobedient to God as recorded in Genesis 3, one of the consequences of this sin was the prohibition to the tree of life. An omnidirectional flaming sword was set to guard it (Genesis 3:24).

The Good News: When you come to the last chapter of the last book of the Bible, we are told that access to the tree of life can be ours! “Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14).

The Younger Son of Luke 15: the Bad News and the Good News

The Bad News: The parable that is often referred to as the parable of the “prodigal son” begins with the younger son demanding his portion of his inheritance from his father and journeying to a far country where he wastes his possessions with prodigal living (Luke 15:12, 13). So bleak does his future appear that “he would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods which the swine ate” (15:16).

The Good News: The father was a father of compassion, mercy, and second opportunities. In Luke 15:20-24 we read of one of the most tender exchanges in all of Scripture. The good news of this parable is that just as the father of the younger son eagerly received his wayward son, so does our Father anticipate our turning away from sin and coming to His arms for a joyous reunion!

Confusion Surrounding the Bible: the Bad News and the Good News

The Bad News: Religious confusion exists. For example, if you were to ask about how someone is saved today, you will, without a doubt, receive many, varied answers to your question. Such confusion is disheartening and frustrating.

The Good News: It is possible to understand God’s will (Ephesians 5:17). God has revealed His mind in such a way that anyone can come to know it! The words of Ephesians 3:3-5 are truly good news: “how that by revelation He made known to me the mystery (as I have briefly written already, by which, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ), which in other ages was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets.”

Isaac Muñoz

Jesus and Pilate’s Wife

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By Fanning Yater Tant

Pilate was in a dilemma. An innocent man stood before him for judgment; Pilate knew that for envy he had been delivered up, and there was no evidence of wrong doing which would justify a sentence against him. Yet the mob was howling for blood. It was a ticklish situation, a nasty mess. Pilate must have wished with all his heart that he could be relieved of the necessity of handling this case. Either way he went, he was certain to have regrets. His sense of Roman justice was outraged at the thought of condemning an innocent man; yet his political sagacity told him that he dare not antagonize the mob.

At this crucial juncture his wife sent an urgent message: “Have thou nothing to do with that righteous man; for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.” How pleasant that would be! What a relief just to wash his hands of the whole affair, bow gracefully out of the picture, and refuse to render a verdict. In a sense that was what Pilate tried to do. He even called for water and symbolically “washed his hands” of the matter, avowing his innocence. Yet Pilate found that it was impossible to side-step his moral responsibility. The verdict of history, repeated endlessly in that earliest of all creedal statements, is that Christ was “crucified under Pontius Pilate.”

As it was with Pilate, so is it with everyone who has knowledge of Jesus. Neutrality is an impossibility. The advice of Pilate’s wife is incredible. Pilate’s very failure to declare himself was a declaration. Had he been familiar with the teachings of the prisoner he would have recalled his words, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” (Matt. 12:30) The long story of the years has demonstrated the inexorable truth which Jesus put into words, “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” His advent into the world has brought to mankind the necessity of making a choice regarding him. In theory they may postpone the choice, or try to evade it or avoid it; in practice the choice is made every day, and in every act or word or thought. Pilate’s theory was that he could avert the choice; his practice was that he delivered Christ to be crucified.

A hundred years ago the Church of Christ stood at the crossroads. For multiplied thousands of Christians an inescapable choice loomed up. They did not ask for this problem; they did not want it; they did not like it. But it was there. In theory multitudes of them tried to shut their eyes to the problem, and ignore it; in practice every last one of them made a choice. Apparently in any such circumstances there are three choices possible: a positive choice for, a positive choice against, and a neutral choice. But as the years unfold, it has been demonstrated over and over again that the “neutral” choice disappears in the cold, hard logic of practice. Men can be neutral in theory only; in practice they are compelled to declare themselves.

In national affairs, when a nation is engaged in a struggle to the death for her very existence, neutrality is regarded as treason. In spiritual affairs, it is true that the Lord’s church is perpetually engaged in a warfare that knows no respite. When a matter of truth or error is up for decision, any attempt at “neutrality” is treason to the truth!

“Have thou nothing to do with that righteous man,” said Pilate’s wife. Attempting to follow that advice, Pilate turned Christ over to his tormenters. “Have thou nothing to do with that righteous man,” is the unexpressed, but none-the-less real, determination of thousands upon thousands of our contemporaries and acquaintances. Yet every such effort at “neutrality” is disastrous to the one attempting it. For Christ cannot be ignored. He makes positive claims and demands on the life of every individual. A failure to acknowledge those claims, a refusal to yield to those demands places one squarely in opposition and rebellion against God.

In theory a man can decide to be “neutral” on the subject of baptism; he is neither “for” it, nor “against” it. But in practice he either will be baptized, or he will not be. There is no neutrality in practice. In theory a man may be “neutral” on the subject of instrumental music in the worship; he is neither “for” it, nor is he “against” it. But in practice he cannot be neutral. He will either worship with it; or refuse to worship with it. The choice may not be forced upon him all at once; but sooner or later it will come. Perhaps he thinks himself against instrumental music; but he never speaks against it; never points out to any man the error of it; refuses to discuss it either publicly or privately. He is neutral in theory only; he is not neutral in practice. His influence is on the side of those who advocate the organ.

In theory, a man can decide to be “neutral” as to the regularity of observance of the Lord’s Supper; in practice he cannot be neutral. A failure to be for a weekly observance of it inevitably puts him in the class of those who are NOT for a weekly observance of it.

“Have thou nothing to do with that righteous man.” Yes, that is what Pilate devoutly wished could be so. But it was impossible for him. And it is impossible for anybody. It is impossible for YOU! When right and wrong are involved, when truth and error are in combat, neutrality is not only treason, it is impossible. Even an attempt at neutrality marks one as disloyal to Christ. There is no middle ground between Christ and Satan.

Priorities and the End of the Year

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Is there a better time of year than the one we are currently entering? It’s hard to think of a season in which so many things are happening that can appeal to almost everybody!

Think about how many things there are to do now that the leaves have changed colors. If the outdoors is where you find your comfort-zone, then the beginning of deer season is a welcome sight for you. If you’d rather enjoy athletic adventures from the comfort of your own living room, then there can surely be no better time as the bowl season of collegiate football draws near. Some folks find little appeal in hunting or sports, but anticipate this time of year for the family gatherings and other social occasions this time of year seems to invite. You certainly can’t talk about this time of year without discussing food! Food! It’s truly a remarkable time to have an appetite, isn’t it? And, lastly, others look forward to these days because of the opportunity that a new year represents. A new year means new chances and new chances mean we can make things right!

With so many fantastic days ahead and our calendars quickly filling up, this would be a good time to remember our priorities.

Two notes before proceeding:

1) None of the activities mentioned above are bad. They are all good and fun and add to the pleasantness of our lives while on this earth. Like many other things, activities and hobbies are good, add value to our lives, and can be used to draw us closer to each other. However, this time of year, because of how hectic schedules tend to become, has a tendency to overshadow our true priority in life.

2) I use the word “remember” in the admonishment to remember our priorities. This word was chosen because I am confident that those who will be reading this are fully aware that are lives are to be completely dedicated to God and need no new teaching on this subject. Thus, the point of this article is simply to remind of the lessons we already know.

For the remainder of this article, let’s simply read, think on, and remember several verses that would be good to keep in mind as a fun, yet busy time of the year approaches.

“You shall have no other gods before Me.” Exodus 20:3

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.” Deuteronomy 6:5

“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all.” Ecclesiastes 12:13

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21

“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” Matthew 6:24

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33

“For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” Matthew 16:26

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:2

“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” Colossians 3:1, 2

“No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.” 2 Timothy 2:4

Isaac Muñoz

Reacting to Immorality

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There have been many words put to print lately about various trends of immorality in the world around us. In particular, our state has recently been involved in the ongoing debate surrounding homosexual marriage and there is a movie recently released that further glorifies other forms of sexual deviancy. What is the Christian to make of all of this? Shall we take up some political campaign or protest to show our dismay? Perhaps we should go along making no comment at all because all of this “really has nothing to do with us.” It is easy to get swept into one extreme reaction or another when such extreme positions are at play but let us not look to the world for our guide but to God’s word.

In the first place, we do want to recognize that the world is always going to be at odds with the will of God. Men of all points in history have believed in their own capacity to “make the world a better place.” If we are not careful, we can get swept up in the notion that the right leader, the right law, or the right political system can save mankind. When God speaks of the world, He never speaks with the view that it will be saved but always to the view that the majority have always and will always turn away from Him (Matt. 7:13). That is not pessimism, that is reality of the history of God’s word and faith in what He says of the future. So, to some degree we must not allow ourselves too much shock and dismay when the world acts like…the world.

In addition to the recognition that the world is lost and dying, we also need to recognize the limitations of our place in this world. God has not called Christians to become political world leaders but to become quiet and consistent influences wherever they are. We influence by living lives that glorify God not ones that glorify a political party (Matt. 5:16). Our authority over those who defy God’s will is limited to those who are of our number and even that is only a matter of limiting our own contact with those persons (1 Cor. 5:9-12). So, while we may want to take some forceful action, that is simply not what God has called for. In fact, in a world that was at least as immoral as our own time, Paul called for Christians to pray for leaders to the end that we may live a “tranquil and quiet life” (1 Tim. 2:2).

Yet, while we should recognize the world for what it is and our limited capacity to bring about change, we don’t want to fall into the trap of thinking that such digressions in morality as we have seen in the last several decades are of no consequence to the Christian. In the first place, it is and should be a sorrowful thing to see immorality exalted. Some might say, “I am not surprised to see this.” Do you suppose the Lord was shocked to see the world digress into the state in which we find it in Genesis 6? The omniscient God is not shocked, but He is filled with sorrow (Gen. 6:6). We don’t need to become so calloused to sin that it fails to cause in us the reaction that it causes in God who has seen all the sin that has ever been committed and yet grieves. Many will mock us for our sorrow and even view our sorrow as another form of judgment. And yet like “righteous Lot” we are increasingly living in a world surrounded by sin and therefore our souls will be “tormented day after day by their lawless deeds” (2 Pet. 2:8). But take heart, God has promised that those who mourn are blessed, “for they shall be comforted” (Matt. 5:4).

The other thing that we must do in the face of such tremendous opposition is keep the faith. When we look at the numbers we can begin to question the rightness of our beliefs or the effectiveness of our efforts to influence. But consider the influence of men of God in other ages of debauchery. Noah is said to have been a “preacher of righteousness” and would have been so for at least 100 years. Yet the result of his preaching was the preservation of only eight souls (2 Pet. 2:5). Isaiah is told to prophesy to the people not so that they would listen and change their hearts, but to, “Render the hearts of this people insensitive, Their ears dull, And their eyes dim, Otherwise they might see with their eyes, Hear with their ears, Understand with their hearts, And return and be healed” (Isa. 6:10). Can you imagine being told that no one would listen but that you must go and preach anyway. The response to truth may not be what we would wish it to be in a world so full of sin. But if Isaiah could continue to proclaim the truth in the face of such opposition as that, then surely we can continue to proclaim it in face of what we see today.

It is a sinful world we live in. Let it break your heart, but let God also lift it back up. Don’t get carried away with the tactics of the world in trying to fight the world. But take up the armor of God and keep fighting on God’s terms (Eph. 6:12-18). And if you will do that, you will not win the world, but you and all those blessed few who will do likewise will most assuredly win the crown of righteousness (2 Tim. 4:8).

By Stephen Russell

Barabbas and Us

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Pilate had a decision to make. And, it turns out, this decision would have the biggest impact on the world in which he lived and in every generation since. Even casual readers of the Bible know what Pilate ultimately decided: to condemn Jesus to death. That fateful choice ensured not only that Jesus would die, but that He would die one of the cruelest and most painful deaths one can imagine.

Pilate made a choice to end Jesus’ life. Had he elected to go another route, Barabbas would have died, and justice would have been served. Barabbas was a notorious prisoner (Matthew 27:16) who had committed murder in the rebellion (Mark 15:7; Luke 23:19). If there was ever a man deserving of the death penalty it was Barabbas; after all, he had taken the life of a human. If there was ever a man who was underserving of the death penalty or any type of rebuke it was Jesus. In the place of taking life, He gave life (Lazarus in John 11). In the place of promoting rebellion against the Roman Empire, He taught others to pay taxes to Caesar (Matthew 22:21).

Pilate had a decision to make, but it should not have been a difficult one. His two options could not be more different and Pilate was aware of these differences (Matthew 27:23). By Pilate’s decision to wash his hands clean of the decision (Matthew 27:24, 25) he elected to take the coward’s way out and had Jesus crucified.

What must Barabbas have thought? Could a heart where rage and hate formerly dwelt have felt gratitude at this moment, or at the very least felt a sigh of relief? An exoneration did not take place here, for he was a guilty man, but that he enjoyed all the freedoms of someone formerly unjustly incarcerated cannot be denied.

Personally, I have a very difficult time attempting to understand how Barabbas felt: I have never been to prison (at least, not on the other side of the bars) and my life has never before hung on the whim of blood-thirsty crowd, so I struggle to relate with this notorious felon. I am sure most reading this understand my plight.

Yet, as I look more carefully at his situation, I begin to see some similarities of which I am none too proud. Just as Barabbas was rebellious, I have been rebellious. Just as Barabbas was a murderer, I have been a murderer.

Barabbas rebelled against the Roman Empire through the insurrection. I have been rebellious against God. Romans 3:9, 10 speaks of my rebellion. “What then? Are we better than they? Not at all. For we have previously charged both Jews and Greeks that they are all under sin. As it is written: ‘There is none righteous, no, not one.’”

Barabbas took precious human life. I have taken precious life. Acts 2:36 was spoken to the Jews of Peter’s day, but could easily apply to myself as well. “Let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.”

Do you see yourself in Barabbas too? Have you rebelled against God? Are you guilty of putting Jesus on the cross because of your sins (Hebrews 6:6)? If you can see yourself in Barabbas, and I think you can, then you also can see what the penalties for these transgressions are. Like Barabbas, we were on death row, simply waiting for the day of our execution.

This is where the story changes. Yes, Pilate helped along the decision, but the decision to save us from our sins was made long before Pilate. This is the story of salvation. An innocent man (Jesus) takes the penalty for the guilty man (Barabbas). Romans 5:8 summarizes our salvation very well. “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while were still sinners, Christ died for us.” The innocent One who gives life to all, dies for the guilty one who takes life. What a marvelous story of love!

I hope we all praise God for what He has done for us and what He does for us! We cannot repay such love.

As you ponder the story of Barabbas, please don’t fail to see your own guilt as well. We scorn at the likes of men like Barabbas, but when we compare ourselves to him see more similarities than differences. Of course, the most obvious similarity is our need for a Savior who can remove our sin. Also, let us never allow the death of Jesus to become commonplace. May we all live with the gratitude He is owed and the love He deserves.

Isaac Muñoz

Top 10 Reasons Not To Be A Christian

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Are you a Christian yet? If not, why not? Here are the top 10 reasons why some people delay in becoming a Christian, along with a brief response:

10. “A lot of Christians are hypocrites.” – This is a true statement. Many Christians are hypocrites. This should not be too surprising, because there are bad apples in every basket. The standard to which God calls us should not be judged by a few bad apples. Besides, would you rather spend a few years, putting up with a few hypocrites in church, or spend eternity with all of them in hell? (Matthew 13:24-43)

9. “I am not good enough.” – When one becomes a Christian, it is not because he, or she is good. In fact, we become Christians because we recognize that we are not good. We are sinners. The redemption of the Christian is based on grace and faith, not one’s own righteousness (Romans 3:21-28). If it was based on righteousness, nobody would be a Christian, much less be saved (Romans 3:23; James 2:10-11).

8. “I do not know enough.” – Do you believe there is a God? Do you believe that Jesus is His Son, who died on the cross to save us from our sins, and was resurrected to give us hope? Are you willing to accept Him as your Lord and Savior, to follow Him wherever He leads you? His commands are simple: After hearing the gospel, you must believe, repent from your sins, confess Him, and be immersed in water into His body (Romans 10:8-18; Acts 2:38; Galatians 3:26-27). The rest will come with time and diligence (I Peter 5:10; Hebrews 5:12-14). Trust Him.

7. “It is too hard.” – Being a Christian is hard work. Before one becomes a Christian they should count the cost, and commit themselves to Christ, whatever the cost (Luke 9:57-62; 14:26-35). However, you should know that choosing not to be a Christian will produce a life that is even harder (Matthew 11:28-30). To help us, God has provided spiritual tools that enable us to grow as a Christian and overcome this life (II Corinthians 10:3-5; Ephesians 6:10-18). These tools are only available to Christians (Ephesians 1:3). If we run away from the difficulties of being a Christian, we will run straight into a trapped life of ruin and misery, which will bring insurmountable and eternal difficulties.

6. “I am too wicked. God could not forgive me.” – What have you done? Have you persecuted Christians? Forcing them to blaspheme their own Savior through slow and painful torture? Have you persecuted them to the point of death? If God can accept Saul, the persecutor of Jesus and Christians (I Timothy 1:13-16; Acts 8:1-3; 9:1-22), and if He can forgive those who crucified His own Son (Luke 23:33-34; Acts 2:36-47), then will He not readily accept you (Luke 15:1-32)? Jesus died for the sins of the whole world, including yours (I John 2:2; I Timothy 2:5-6).

5. “But, that means my family is going to hell!” – Once someone realizes the truth of his condemned state, it does not take long before he considers the fate of his loved ones. This realization often produces much worry and heartache. Such a person may allow this concern to overpower his desire to save himself. However, denying the truth will not change their true state before God (I Corinthians 4:1-5). The only real hope of saving your loved ones is to first become a Christian, and then you can reach out to them with the gospel. Ignoring the judgment to come does not make it go away. Turning a blind eye only makes condemnation inevitable (Romans 11:7-10).

4. “God is merciful. He would not condemn me.” – God truly is merciful. He does not want any to be lost (II Peter 3:9). That is why He gave His Son to be sacrificed upon the cross, thereby giving us an opportunity to be saved (John 3:16). However, the Lord is also just, and He will one day return unexpectedly, as a “thief in the night” (I Thessalonians 5:1-3). Then the door of opportunity will be closed, and only those who are prepared will be saved (Matthew 25:1-13). At that time, He will be “revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (II Thessalonians 1:7-8). This is God’s promise and warning. Will you ignore the warning?

3. “I am a good, moral person. God would not condemn me.” – On that last great day, there will be many surprised people, whom we might would consider good, moral people. Many might have even acknowledged Him as Lord (Matthew 7:21). Some might have gone so far as to have performed many great works in His name (Matthew 7:22). However, if they have not obeyed and performed according to the Lord’s command, then Jesus will not recognize them, and they will be eternally condemned (Luke 13:23-27; Matthew 7:21-23). Are you obeying the Lord’s command (Mark 16:15-16)?

2. “I’m not ready yet. Maybe tomorrow?” – Some people want to finish sowing their wild oats. Once they have had their full of sin and its pleasures, then they plan to offer their ragged life to God, just before they expire. Such people underestimate God. He will not be tricked, or mocked (Galatians 6:7-8). You will reap what you sow. In reality, the race is not to become a Christian before you die, but to repent before your heart becomes hardened through the deceitfulness of sin, unable to hear the word and repent (Hebrews 3:13; Luke 8:4-15).

1. Me, myself, and I – Few, if any, would readily admit this is the reason for delaying their conversion. However, at some point, all of the nine above reasons cease to be barriers, and they become excuses, masking their own selfish, stubborn rebellion as the true reason (Romans 1:18-32). However, such people will one day find themselves surrounded by all the selfish beings that ever lived, angels and people (Matthew 25:41-46). How effectively will you be able to serve yourself and find happiness in that realm of eternal evil, darkness, and suffering, where nothing good dwells?

Conclusion

If you are delaying becoming a Christian, then please answer the question, “Why?” What stands in your way between you and the Lord? Why will you not do what you know to be right? How do you know this is not your last chance before you either die or your conscience becomes so hardened that it can no longer be pricked by the truth? If something still stands in your way, please talk to me, or any Christian, about it. There is nothing worth losing your one and only eternal soul (Mark 8:34-38)!
Trevor Bowen

Patience

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By L.A. Stauffer

My dictionary lists more than 60 English words that begin with the prefix “hypo,” which means “under.” A “hypodermic” needle, for example, is inserted under (“hypo”) the skin (“derma”) to inject medicine into the body. “Hypo” is used with a number of Greek words by writers of the New Testament. They use it with the Greek word mone, a noun that comes from a verb that means “to abide, remain, or dwell.” It is translated “patience” or “steadfastness” in our English New Testaments.

The meaning of “patience,” when translated from this word, suggests an abiding or remaining under a heavy load or beneath burdensome circumstances. It portrays the thought of being firm and steadfast—able to endure under the weight of trials in the midst of difficult and adverse times. But beyond this, it calls on Christians to be faithful to God at all times.

James in his epistle thought of the “prophets” and “Job” when he wrote to brethren about patience. Old Testament prophets steadfastly proclaimed the message of God even when they suffered persecution by Israel and Judah for telling them the truth about their sinfulness and the judgment that was to come. And Job, like so many, struggled, questioned, and debated in search of “why” he suffered, yet he remained steadfast and his patience in time was rewarded by God.

Patience, to begin with, is a quality of mind and life that, along with knowledge, virtue, self-control, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love, must be added to a Christian’s faith. It is “these things” Peter reveals that make our calling and election sure and will richly supply us with an abundant entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (see 2 Pet 1:5-11) This endurance, steadfastness, and perseverance grow out of hope that is unseen but itself is sure and steadfast (see Rom 8:25; Heb 6:19-20).

Patience will do three things for us as God’s people. First, it will enable us through steadfastness to produce the good fruit of the Spirit—whether 30, 60 or 100 fold. This comes to all who with “honest and good hearts” receive the word of God and assimilate it into the inward man (see Luke 8:15; Matt 13:23; Rom 2:7).

Second, it will insulate us over long periods of time against spiritual weariness and faintheartedness. The Ephesians had some spiritual issues that had to be dealt with, but when it came to false teachers who sought to lead them astray, they with steadfastness defended the name of Jesus and refused to become weary in maintaining this important work (Rev 2:3).

Third, it will, as with the prophets and Job, embolden and strengthen us in times of trials and persecution. It is tempting when times get tough to shrink back from bodily harm, but Paul commended the Thessalonians for “their patience and faith in all your persecutions and in the affliction which ye endure” (2 Thess 1:4; see 2 Cor 1:6; 6:4). They suffered bodily harm and remained unmovably faithful to their Lord.

When Paul wrote to Timothy about his work as an evangelist and told him to “follow,” among many things, “patience,” he used a strong word that means “to pursue” it. This fits the image of the writer of Hebrews who urged the brethren “to run” with “patience” the race set before them. Those who do run with steadfastness will not shrink back to perdition but will endure, run steadfastly, and receive the promise to reign with Christ (see 1 Tim 6:11; Heb 12:1; 2 Tim 3:10; Heb 10:36-38).

So, brethren, remember Job and note how in the end the Lord was full of pity and mercy (James 5:11). That assurance strengthens our resolve to “be ye steadfast, unmovable, always about in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Cor 15:58).