3/7/10

TRUST IN THE LORD

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and He Will make your paths straight"
(Proverbs 3:5,6).

What does it mean to "trust in the Lord"?

It means we "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness" (Matthew 6:33).
It means we "seek the things that are above where Christ is" (Colossians3:1).
It means we "in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord" (1 Peter 3:15).
It means we "renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in the present age" (Titus 2:12).
It means we "turn away from evil and do good" (1 Peter 3:11).
It means we imitate the godly life of the Old Testament King Hezekiah, who reminded God "Remember O Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion, and have done what is good in your eyes" (Isaiah 38:3).

If you want God to "make your paths straight," then "trust in the Lord with all your heart." 

Clinton Storm, Merced church of Christ 8/23/09

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2/28/10

I Will… 

Like Paul, forget those things which are behind, and press onward (Philippians 3:13);
Like David, lift up mine eyes unto the hills from whence comes my help (Psalm 121:1);
Like Abraham, trust implicitly in my God (James 2:23);
Like Enoch, walk daily in fellowship with my heavenly Father (Genesis 5:22);
Like Jehoshaphat, prepare my heart to seek God (2 Chronicles 19:2-3);
Like Moses, choose rather to suffer, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season (Hebrews 11:24-25);
Like Daniel, commune with God at all times (Daniel 6:10);
Like Job, be patient under all circumstances (Job 13:15-16; James 5:11).
Like Caleb and Joshua, refuse to be discouraged because of superior numbers (Numbers 13:30; 14:6-9);
Like Gideon, advance even though my friends be few (Judges 7:7);
Like Aaron and Hur, uphold the hands of the leaders of the church with prayer and support (Exodus 17:12);
Like Andrew, strive to lead my brother to Christ (John 1:40-42);
Like Stephen, manifest a forgiving spirit toward all who seek my hurt (Acts 7:60).

-Author Unknown; House to House Heart to Heart Vol.15 #1 http://www.housetohouse.com/



An exasperated mother, whose son was always getting into mischief, finally asked him, “How do you expect to get into heaven?” The boy thought it over and said, “Well, I’ll just run in and out and in and out and keep slamming the door until St. Peter says, ‘For Heaven’s sake, Jimmy, come in or stay out!’”                              Bulletin Digest October 2009
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2/21/10

 It Really Does Make a Difference

Many folks live completely oblivious to God’s commands. They think that it doesn’t matter how one worships, if one worships, or where one worships God, just as long as he/she is sincere. However, the Bible says that God is a jealous God (Exodus 20:5), and all who wish to please Him must hold in reverence what He says. Just a casual scan of the Bible will reveal that indifference to things sacred has brought tragedy to many sincere people.

1. It made a difference in things offered. Cain’s sacrifice was rejected but Abel’s was accepted (Genesis 4). Why? “Faith cometh by hearing . . . the word of God” (Romans 10:17), and since Abel’s offering was “by faith” (Hebrews 11:4), we know that God had spoken to them about making an offering. But Cain disrespected God’s word and worshipped in vain. The same thing can happen today (Matthew 15:9); that’s why we must worship God only as He directs (John 4:24). No matter how sincere we may be, obedience to God is required (2 John 9; 1 Samuel 15:22). It makes a difference!

2. It made a difference if Moses struck or spoke. God’s command to Moses was understandable. But Moses struck the rock instead of speaking to it as God had said (Numbers 20). This may seem like a little thing, but we must remember, “It is not in man that walketh to direct his own steps” (Jeremiah 10:23). It may seem all right to practice things unauthorized in worship, but these things could lead to our spiritual death, for “there is a way that seemeth right unto man, but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12). It makes a difference!

3. It made a difference to Jesus about which church. He lived in a time and place where there were many religious groups. In the face of criticism, he said: “In vain do they worship me teaching for doctrine the commandments of men” (Matthews 15:9). He could have taken a more politically correct view by saying, “One church is as good as another,” or “There are saved people in all faiths.” But He pushed politics aside and said: “Upon this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). Just think: if “my car” or “my house” means these things belong to me, then when Christ said “my church” it must mean it belongs to Him. He purchased it with His own blood (Acts 20:28; Ephesians 5:25-27); He is its head (Ephesians 1:22-23); it is His bride and wears His name (Romans 7; Ephesians 5).

So it makes a difference! No matter where one looks in the Bible, he cannot find a single example where failure to worship God as He authorizes was acceptable to Him. The first thing a person must do to be Christ’s disciple is to deny himself (Luke 9:23). This cannot be done by following the paths of least resistance. Search the Scriptures daily to make sure (Acts 17:11; 2 Timothy 2:15). Why? Because it really does make a difference!

—Ferman Carpenter, Austin, Texas

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2/14/10

DO IT NOW 

Many years ago I remember reading this statement: "The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and the lightning bug." Words are important. By them we communicate. Words can bless or injure, promote good or incite evil.

Consider the three little words, "God Loves You." Or "I Love You." These words understood and practiced could change the world.

Three more little words that have served me well in life are these: "Do It Now."

How often we postpone what should be done immediately. Can you remember times in your life when you procrastinated, putting things off until you were the loser or fretting about some item that long ago should have been resolved?

In this new year, try this little motto: "Do It Now.' You will be blessed.

The same three little words will bless us in the spiritual realm. Do you need to change your life, repent of your sinful way and turn to God in repentance and baptism? "Do It Now." The Bible exhorts, "Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation" (2 Cor. 6:2).

Do you need to drop a bad" habit? "Do It Now:

Do you need to begin a regular period of Bible study and prayer? "Do It Now."

Do you need to invite some loved one to worship services or to talk to someone about the Lord "Do It Now."

Clinton Storm, Merced church of Christ 1/24/10

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2/7/10

STARS

In the car this morning I heard a commercial I hadn't heard since I was a kid. The Star Registry was advertising that you could "buy a star" for someone you loved. Apparently they send you a map of some type, you pick a yet "unnamed star" and for a small fee you get to name that star for someone special.
That's right, then from here to eternity that star "belongs" to them.

I remember as a child thinking how cool this sounded! I also remember as a teen thinking how goofy this sounded. Today I had a new thought: How arrogant this sounded! Who is man that we think we have the right to claim a star? Who are we to stake ownership in the infinite creation of God? How arrogant to think we can map the stars, yet alone name them.

Only God can make such a claim. Psalm 147:4 says "He counts the number of the stars; He gives names to all of them." Do you know how big that is? In 1993 scientists said that there were 70 sextillion stars in the visible universe, or some 70 thousand million million million. That’s a 7 followed by 22 zeros! And those are just the ones within range of our telescopes.

Can you grasp that? We serve a HUGE God. SO big in fact that He actually knows the number of stars and has each one named! That puts everything in perspective for me. There are days when I feel so small. There are times I feel alone. There are times that we all feel helpless. But we should not! The God and creator of the stars also knows OUR name and stands behind us, holding us up and pressing us forward.

Next time you look into the heavens on a clear Oregon night and you gaze upon the North Star, the Big Dipper or even Orion, remember who put them there. Remember who named them. Remember how big your God is. And then, remember that He is right there beside you, in your life, and in your heart.

Brian Pannell, West Main church of Christ, Medford 5/6/09 

JUST A GLIMPSE
We've all seen poor people begging for money from the rich. How often do you see the rich following after the poor trying to stuff money into the poor's pocket? That's what God has done throughout the ages.
In the New Testament, Zaccheus just wanted to get a glimpse of Jesus. What did he get? Christ's attention, friendship and salvation! All we ask for is a gentle glance - we get God's arm around us! We would be happy being Christ's servant - He makes us His friend. We come staggering home from a pig-pen lifestyle with a broken heart and a well-rehearsed confession, and He gives us a robe, a ring, shoes and a royal welcome. God loves us beyond our comprehension.
Doesn't He amaze you? (from World Bible School: wbschool.org)

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1/31/10

BREAKING DOWN OBSTACLES TO INTIMACY WITH GOD-CONTENTMENT

The Hebrew writer ended his Epistle with many practical words to live by. In verses five and six, he mentions three things that serve as obstacles to true intimacy with God. The first of these is the concept of discontentment.
I remember about a dozen years ago when the Beanie Baby craze hit the part of the country that I lived in. I don't know if it hit out here, but I remember how driven some people were to get the newest "Beanies" as they were being introduced each month. In Little Rock, there were some people who would follow UPS trucks around town, then, when one pulled into a Hallmark store, they would park and race in and fight to get whatever was being delivered. Does that sound silly to you? Sure! But we all have something in our lives that we seem to have to get more of.

American consumerism is a complex thing. It is part of what has made this world what it now is. Many foreign countries, like China, are absolutely dependent upon our preoccupation with consumption. Our consumption drives many world economies. Our consumption helps drive our own economy. Yet, the key to ever growing consumption, which seems to be essential to everyone's economic health, is being discontent with what we have. Our discontentment leads to our desire for more, and that desire drives us to purchase more.

I Timothy 6:6 says: ''But godliness with contentment is great gain." Too often people live like the verse really says: "But godliness with great gain brings contentment." We too often feel the need to have more in order to feel contentment, even saying things like, "I would be content if I only had (fill in the blank)." Then, as we grow in our earning and accumulating, we find that the amount that we once thought was sufficient is no longer.

The reality is that there is nothing of this world that is eternal. It all comes and goes. It all ages and goes from new and "I can't believe that there is anything I'd like more", to old and "I wish I could replace it." Understanding that even the best of this world is temporal is the key to contentment. Paul understood it when he said: "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." (Philippians 4:12)

Contentment is not the same as being satisfied with mediocrity. Laziness can lead one to settle for a lot less than could or should be realized, and calling it contentment doesn't change the fact that it is still laziness. However, our inability to be content with those things we do enjoy will create an obstacle between us and God - destroying intimacy with the one we most need it with.

-It means we "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness" (Matthew 6:33).

-It means we "seek the things that are above where Christ is" (Colossians3:1).

-It means we "in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord" (1 Peter 3:15). It means we "renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in the present age" (Titus 2:12).

-It means we "turn away from evil and do good" (1 Peter 3:11).

-It means we imitate the godly life of the Old Testament King Hezekiah, who reminded God "Remember O Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion, and have done what is good in your eyes" (Isaiah 38:3). 

If you want God to "make your paths straight," then "trust in the Lord with all your heart."
Clinton Storm, Merced church of Christ 8/23/09

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” Hebrews 13:5-6
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Subject: 5th Grade assignment

A fifth grade teacher in a Christian school asked her class to look at TV commercials and see if they could use them in some way to communicate ideas about God. Here are some of the results.

God is like: BAYER ASPIRIN - He works miracles.
God is like: A FORD - He's got a better idea.
God is like: COKE - He's the real thing.
God is like: HALLMARK CARDS - He cares enough to send His very best.
God is like: TIDE - He gets the stains out that others leave behind.
God is like: GENERAL ELECTRIC - He brings good things to life.
God is like: SEARS - He has everything.
God is like: ALKA-SELTZER - Try Him, you'll like Him.
God is like: SCOTCH TAPE - You can't see Him, but you know He's there.
God is like: DELTA - He's ready when you are.
God is like: ALLSTATE - You're in good hands with Him.
God is like: VO-5 HAIR SPRAY - He holds through all kinds of weather.
God is like: DIAL SOAP - Aren't you glad you have Him? Don't you wish everybody did?
God is like: the U.S. POST OFFICE - Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet nor ice will keep Him from His appointed destination.
God is like: CHEVROLET - the heart beat of America.
God is like: MAXWELL HOUSE - Good to the very last drop.
God is like: BOUNTY - He is the quicker picker upper. . can handle the tough jobs. .. and He won't fall apart on you.

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As we begin the year 2010 with all the problems the world is facing, it can be unsettling to the mind. Let me share with you ten predictions that will come true this year!
Top 10 Predictions for 2010
1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still be the most powerful thing on Earth.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still honor the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love you.
10. Jesus will still forgive the sinners when they come to Him.

"The Word of the Lord endures forever." (1 Peter 1:25)

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1/24/10

A TWO KNEE SOLUTION

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Have you been troubled about the moral decay in our nation, including national leaders, white and blue collar workers and the older teaching the younger? Do you even despair that the "slippery slope" has become an unstoppable avalanche? Do you feel there is little you can do except keep your own house in order? And, even that sometimes gets beyond your reach?

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Well, it is back to the future in the repetition of history. There are few nations that have had more than a century or so of moral supremacy. Back across the centuries, circumstances at hinge times looked worse than bleak. Even irremediable. The history of Israel is a story of moral bankruptcies followed by a period of renewal. Only to plunge again into unbridled living. It was a sad litany of bad judges or evil kings or greedy shepherds, followed periodically by a call to repentance and spiritual renewal.

God has always relied on three things:
1. His people renewing their personal pledges to holiness because He is Holy.
2. His people fervently beseeching Him to intervene and heal the land. He promised in II Chronicles 7:14: "If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
3. Godly men rising up and speaking with prophetic authority against the common practices in a dark world. As long as good men remain silent, the world will seldom ever know what is the best way to live and what is best for them.
Speaking a good word for the Master is the beginning of hope. Going to our knees in confession and prayer, intervening for a lost world wallowing and drowning in sin, and rising to speak and share the truth with those around us is the best solution God gives us to make a difference in our world. God invites us to be a crucial part of His intent to heal the land and save the world.

---Truman Scott, Elder, West Main church of Christ, Medford, OR 1/6/10 


A Word of Advice
An old evangelist was telling another man how he might improve his lifestyle. “You know,” answered the wayward fellow, “I’ve been aiming to do that.”
“Well,” said the preacher, “quit aiming and start shooting.”
(bulletin Digest January 2010)
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1/17/10

THE SUNRISE

This morning’s sunrise was an awesome sight, just one little reminder among a countless number of God’s majesty and power. God’s hand in nature is a comfort to us, but that He works such in splendor and beauty are benevolent extras from His gracious nature. Noah’s rainbow was a covenant and sign, but the sunrise is one of many natural phenomena that God has applied to the appearance, work, or nature of His Son. In Luke one, the Holy Spirit through the writer reveals Zacharias’ prophesy about John’s work as the harbinger of a Messiah who was about to appear to their generation. In part, Zacharias says, “For you will go on before the Lord to prepare His ways; to give to His people the knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, with which the Sunrise from on high will visit us, to shine upon those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace” (1:76b-79). Of ten New Testament occurrences, only here is anatole translated “dayspring” or “sunrise.” The other nine occurrences, found in either Matthew, Luke, or Revelation, render it “east” (the place from which the sun rises each day).

Zacharias had not been able to speak since encountering the angel while performing his priestly duties in the temple (Luke 1:10). His mouth had been shut since the time Gabriel had told him that the son he had just learned he and Elizabeth would bear would be the forerunner of Jesus (Luke 1:19). Zacharias did not believe the revelation Gabriel gave to be true, and for this his lips were sealed until Elizabeth gave untimely birth. Zacharias was instructed to call their newborn “John” rather than name him after himself. That day, his lips were loosed and he prophesied about both John and Jesus.

Zacharias proclaimed Jesus “the Sunrise.” Why? Jesus would pay mankind a visit, appearing as the sun that starts a brand new day. He would illuminate (cf. John 8:12), the way the morning sun dispels and chases away the darkness. He would bring peace, the way the coming of the day often chases away the fears and insecurities of the night. No more beautiful sunrise ever appeared than He who appeared in Bethlehem 2000 years ago. He brought endless peace and offers endless hope. Nothing is more beautiful!
Neal Pollard, Bear Valley church of Christ, Denver, CO 1/10/10

Indestructible Book

Many men have tried to destroy the Bible. In a.d. 303, the Roman Emperor Diocletian issued an edict to destroy Christians and their Bibles. Over a burned Bible, he built a monument on which he wrote these words, Extincto momene Christianorum (meaning “the name Christian is extinguished”). Twenty years later, Diocletian was dead and the new Emperor Constantine commissioned fifty copies of the Bible to be prepared at government expense.
In 1776, the French philosopher Voltaire said, “One hundred years from my day, there will not be a Bible in the earth except one that is looked upon by some antique seeker.” One hundred years from the day of Voltaire’s prediction,
the first edition of his works sold for eleven cents in Paris, but the British government paid Russia half a million dollars for an ancient Bible manuscript.
It truly is interesting to read what men have tried to do with God’s Word, which shall stand forever. “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away” (Matthew 24:35). —Author Unknown

“The word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.” 1 Peter 1:25

House to House Heart to Heart Vol 14 #6

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1/10/10

Examples

God desires that we be examples to others in our speech and conduct.

Note the following lessons:

To the Corinthians God used Israel as an example of evil which Christian should avoid. "Now these things took place as example for us, that we might not desire evil as they did" (1 Cor. 10:6). He then specifies idolatry (vs. 7), sexual immorality (vs. 8) and grumbling (vs. 10), as sins to avoid, and then adds: "Now these things happened to them as an example. but they were written down for instruction" (vs. 11).

The prophets were examples. James writes: "As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord" (James 5:10). The writer then mentions Job as an example of patience.

The apostles of Christ are examples. Paul urges believers to "be imitators of me, as I am of Christ" (1 Cor.11:1).

Preachers are to be examples and Paul writing to Timothy specifies five areas: "but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity" (1 Tim. 4:12).

Jesus is the perfect example, having never sinned (1 Peter 2:22). Note the reading of the text: "For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps" (1 Peter 2:21). And again: "For I have given you an example, that you also should do just I have done to you" (John 13:15).

May God help us all to be the examples we need to be to a lost and dying world.
~ Clinton Storm Merced church of Christ
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A 7-year old boy proudly tells his father: "I finally know what the Bible means!" Surprised the father replied: "What do you mean, you "know" what the Bible means? What does it mean?" "That's easy, dad.......It stands for Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth."

Switches control everything in the home - except the children!
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1/3/2010

A "BOLD" NEW YEAR John C. Robertson (modified for 2010)

What if we could see into the future? What if we knew every physical injury we will sustain this year? What if we knew every emotional pain that we will face in 2010? What if we knew all our successes and failures that will unfold? What if we could see a picture of the church here at as it will be at the end of 2010? The fact of the matter is, we don’t know any of these things. What we do know it that God commands the Christian to approach the days of our life with "boldness."

To be a child of God is to be "bold." The lexicons define the “boldness” (parrhesia) as "freespokenness, openness, frankness, confidence, assurance." the Scriptures are not advocating a manner of arrogance, a cocky, overconfident, and conceited personality, but a disposition that says, "I am not ashamed of the gospel.. ." the word parrheisa is found 31 times in the NT and appears to uniformly indicate one who speaks and approaches life in such a way of confidence that says "I have nothing to hide."

Sometimes people are hasty with their confidence in a man, a corporation, or a sports team. When these entities falter, such a one is left in shame. The child of God confidently approaches life with hope because, unlike these worldly entities, God will not fail him.

Precise areas of boldness revealed in the Scriptures:
The Christian is bold in the hope of salvation through Christ (Heb. 3;5-6.)
The Christian is bold to approach God in prayer knowing that He hears and understands our pleas (Heb. 4:16; 1 John 5:14.)
The Christian is bold to approach God in fellowship now and into eternity because our sins are forgiven (Heb. 10:19.)
The Christian will have boldness to face Jesus when He comes again rather than being filled with shame (1 John 2:28.)
The Christian is not ashamed of the gospel message of Christ (Eph. 6:19; Phil. 1:20.)
Without shame or fear the Christian boldly proclaims the gospel message (Acts 4:31; 28:31; 2 Cor. 3:12.)
The Christian is bold (confident) in his fellow Christian's faith (2 Cor. 7:4.)
The Christian faces those who would treat us shamefully for our faith with boldness (Heb. 10:32-35.) .

Where will this kind of boldness lead Christians in 2010? Only the Lord knows, but for those so bold, the Lord will protect and bless. No matter what awaits us in the coming year, God tells us to approach every day with boldness. Let us not be fearful of failures, pain, nor strife but let us boldly live the Christian life and tell the gospel message.
Highway church of Christ, LANTERN Sullivan,IL January 2009

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12/27/09

 TREES

Once, there were three trees on a hill in a woods. They were discussing their hopes and dreams, when the first tree said, "Someday, I hope to be a treasure chest. I could be filled with gold, silver, and precious gems. I could be decorated with intricate carvings, and everyone would see the beauty."

Then, the second tree said, "Someday, I will be a mighty ship. I will take kings and queens across the waters and sail to the corners of the world. Everyone will feel safe in me, because of the strength of my hull."

Finally, the third tree said, "I want to grow to be the tallest and straightest tree in the forest. People will see me on top of the hill, and look up to my branches, and think of the heavens and God, and see how close to them I am when I am reaching. I will be the greatest tree of all time, and people will always remember me."

After a few years of praying that their dreams would come true, a group of woodsmen came upon the trees. When one came to the first tree he said, "This looks like a strong tree. I think I should be able to sell the wood to a carpenter," and he began cutting it down. The tree was happy, because he knew that the carpenter would make him into a treasure chest.

At the second tree, a woodsman said, "This looks like a strong tree. I should be able to sell it to the shipyard." The second tree was happy, because he knew he was on his way to becoming a mighty ship.

When the woodsmen came upon the third tree, the tree was frightened, because he knew that if they cut him down, his dreams would not come true. One of the woodsmen said, "I don't need anything special from my tree, so I'll take this one," and he cut it down.

When the first tree arrived at the carpenters, he was made into a feed box for animals. He was then placed in a barn and filled with hay. This was not at all what he had prayed for. The second tree was cut and made into a small fishing boat. His dreams of being a mighty ship and carrying kings had come to an end. The third tree was cut into large planks and left alone in the dark.

The years went by, and the trees forgot about their dreams. Then one day,
a man and women came to the barn. She gave birth, and they placed the baby in the hay in the feed box that was made from the first tree. The man wished that he could have made a crib for the baby, but this manger would have to do. The tree could feel the importance of this event and knew that it had held the greatest treasure of all time.

Years later, a group of men got in the fishing boat made from the second tree. One of them was tired and went to sleep. While they were out on the water, a great storm arose, and the tree didn't think it was strong enough to keep the men safe. The men woke the sleeping man, and he stood and said, "peace," and the storm stopped. At this time, the tree knew that it had carried the king of kings in its boat.

Finally, someone came and got the third tree. It was carried through the streets, as the people mocked the man who was carrying it. When they came to a stop, the man was nailed to the tree and raised in the air to die at the top of a hill. When Sunday came, the tree came to realize that it was strong enough to stand at the top of the hill and be as close to God as was possible, because Jesus had been crucified on it.

The moral of this story is that when things don't seem to be going your way, always know that God has a plan for you. He will give you great gifts. Each of the trees got what they wanted - just not in the way they had imagined.

We don't always know what God's plans are for us. We just know that His ways are not our ways, but His ways are always best. (shared by Dan & Michelle Talburt)

What Are the Chances?
There are more than three hundred prophecies from the Old Testament fulfilled in the life of Jesus of Nazareth. The prophecies were made centuries before He was born and contain startling details (e.g., the name of the city of His birth, how He would die). In the book Science Speaks, Peter Stoner writes of the probability that only eight of these prophecies were fulfilled accidentally in the life of Jesus. The odds here are 1 in 10 to the 17th power, or 100,000,000,000,000,000 to 1. Stoner illustrates this impossible number by suggesting that if one covers the state of Texas with that many silver dollars, the entire state would be covered in coins two feet deep. If you mark one of the coins, mix the coins thoroughly, and then blindfold a man and tell him to pick up the marked coin on the first try, that would be the same probability of just eight of the messianic prophecies coming true by coincidence.

[Peter Stoner, Science Speaks (1963), p. 175].

"Had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. "
JOHN 5:46

From House to House Heart to Heart Vol. 14 No. 6 http://www.housetohouse.com/

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12/20/09

 Luke 2:1-16

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.



Genealogies and the Virgin Birth of Christ ~ by Eric Lyons, M.Min.

Rarely (if ever) have I read the words “genealogy” and “exciting” in the same sentence. It seems most people consider the genealogies of Christ as some of the Bible’s dullest reading. They frequently are described as boring, dry, and monotonous—full of “begets” that many would just as soon “forget.” In reality, however, exciting pearls of truth often are overlooked. One of these truths that escapes the reader who simply skims (or skips) the genealogies is the virgin birth of Christ.

In Matthew’s genealogy of Christ, it may be that one fails to see how the verb “begot” is used 39 times between Abraham and Joseph (verses 2-16a). And yet, instead of claiming that Joseph begot Jesus, Matthew wrote: “…and Jacob begot Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus who is called Christ” (1:16, emp. added). This wording stands in stark contrast to the format in the preceding verses (“Abraham begot Isaac, Isaac begot Jacob, etc.”). Joseph did not beget Jesus; rather, he is referred to as “the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus.” The Holy Spirit was emphasizing the fact that Jesus was not conceived as the result of anything Joseph did. Rather, Mary “was found with child of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:18, emp. added). An angel even informed Joseph that he was not the father of Jesus, rather that which was conceived [literally, “begotten”] in her was “of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:20).

Matthew gave us a second “hint” of the virgin birth of Christ when he wrote: “…and Jacob begot Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus who is called Christ” (1:16, emp. added). One might assume that the “whom” in this verse refers to Joseph as Jesus’ father. Others may think it is talking about both Joseph and Mary as His parents. An English teacher likely would point out that we cannot tell to whom the word “whom” belongs in this verse, because when the English word “whom” is used in a sentence it can refer to either men or women; or, it can refer to both. Though usually we can tell the meaning by the context in which the word is found, such is not the case in Matthew 1:16. Our English translations simply do not reveal the marvelous truth concealed in this verse. In order to unveil this “Gospel gem,” one must consult the language in which the New Testament was written originally—Greek. The English phrase “of whom was born Jesus” is translated from the Greek relative feminine pronoun (hes). In this verse, the feminine gender can refer only to Mary. Biblical genealogies regularly emphasize the fathers who sire a child, but here Matthew indicates that Jesus received His humanity only from His mother. Thus, Joseph is excluded from any involvement in the birth of Christ, the Son of God.

While Matthew’s genealogy clearly establishes Christ as the legal heir to the throne by tracing His ancestry down through the royal line of the kings of Israel all the way to Joseph the carpenter (and to Jesus), he still emphasizes Mary as the biological parent “of whom” Jesus was born. What accuracy! What precision! What a wonderful truth found within a genealogy so often overlooked.

Copyright © 2002 Apologetics Press, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.apologeticspress.org/

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12/13/09

 A Message in Song Titles

This Is My Father's World, I will Praise Him, Praise Him for all He has done for me. Love Lifted Me from the depths of sin there At the Cross. Because of this, I can go Anywhere with Jesus, for I know He will be there because I'm in the Gloryland Way! Life is so much Sweeter as the Years Go By, for I know that in Paradise Valley, There's a Land That Is Fairer than Day, a place Where the Soul Never Dies; moreover, I know that This World Is Not My Home, so when I Kneel at the Cross in prayer I can truly say, my God, How Great Thou Art!

When I think of His Amazing Grace, and what He has done for me, I know that Our God, He Is Alive! For all these reasons, someday My God and I will live together with all those who have gone on before me, in the beautiful Ivory Palaces that God has prepared for me. Yes, it was On a Hill Far Away that our blessed Lord. the Rock of Ages, gave His life that I might have Victory in Jesus. Because of these Precious Memories of His life and His death on the cross, I'm Living by Faith and I will always give Glory to His Name as I sing that wonderful old song, Whispering Hope.

What a song of praise will be outpoured When He Comes in Glory By and By. Yes, some day I'll Fly Away to my home on high; Just Beyond the Rolling River of death I Will Meet You at the River of life with the redeemed of all ages. But while here on earth, I Will Sing of My Redeemer until I reach the land, where In Heaven They're Singing a wonderful song, a theme that shall never grow old. Because of His loving grace I now can sing It Is Well with My Soul; and I can also sing, All Will Be Well Just Over in the Gloryland. So Meet Me There.

The grandest of all great days will be When all of God's Singers Get Home, and they'll dwell in The Summerland of Bliss with our Lord for an endless eternity, and there experience No Tears in Heaven, yea No Disappointments in Heaven. How Beautiful Heaven Must Be. There He Keeps Me Singing.

Friends, because Swiftly We're Turning life's daily pages, Prepare to Meet Thy God. Trust and Obey, Sing and Be Happy, Pray All the Time, Sing to Me of Heaven, and Ring Out the Message. Proclaim O What a Savior! And ponder two important questions: Do You Know My Jesus, and What Will You Do with Jesus?

Live that others too will say O I Want to See Him, and look upon His face. There to sing forever of His saving grace; On the streets of glory let me lift my voice; Cares all past, home at last, ever to rejoice.

-Authur Pigman, Evans, Georgia from Glad Tiding of Good Things, 5/21/09 Jacksonville church of Christ

12/6/09

 GOD AND THE SPIDER

During World War II, a US marine was separated from his unit on a Pacific Island. The fighting had been intense, and in the smoke and the crossfire he had lost touch with his comrades.

Alone in the jungle, he could hear enemy soldiers coming in his direction. Scrambling for cover, he found his way up a high ridge to several small caves in the rock. Quickly he crawled inside one of the caves. Although safe for the moment, he realized that once the enemy soldiers looking for him swept up the ridge, they would quickly search all the caves and he would be killed.

As he waited, he prayed, "Lord, if it be your-will, please protect me. Whatever your will though, I love you and trust you. In Jesus name, Amen." After praying, he lay quietly listening to the enemy begin to draw close. He thought, "Well, I guess the Lord isn't going to help me out of this one." Then he saw a spider begin to build a web over the front of the cave. As he watched, listening to the enemy searching for him all the while, the spider layered strand after strand of web across the opening of the cave.

"Hah", he thought. "What I need is a brick wall and what the Lord has sent me is a spider web. God does have a sense of humor."

As the enemy drew closer he watched from the darkness of his hideout and could see them searching one cave after another. As they came to his, he got ready to make his last stand. To his amazement, however, after glancing in the direction of his cave, they moved on. Suddenly, he realized that with the spider web over the entrance, his cave looked as if no one had entered for quite a while.

"Lord, forgive me," prayed the young man. "I had forgotten that in you a spider's web is stronger than a brick wall."

Pray to God for help and comfort - then -look for God to help you and bless you in ways that you never imagined. Always remember what Jesus said in Mark 10:27, "With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible."

Skaggs church of Christ, Pocahontas, Arkansas, shared by Neva Haley

God measures our service, not just by our ability, but also by our willingness.

11/29/09

Giving to Thee
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As I progress through my life,
more clearly do I see,
it is not what I gather, Lord,
but what I give to thee.

I give to thee by pouring out,
my body, heart, and soul,
in glory and devotion,
trusting Thee to make me whole.

I give to Thee by kindly helping,
all others great and small,
humbly loving, serving, forgiving,
not with part, but with all.

I give to Thee by giving free,
not expecting in return,
knowing my full reward will come,
at the end of my sojourn.

As I progress through my life,
more clearly do I see,
the more I give to you, Dear Lord,
the more You give to me.

Edd Sterchi, Jackson church of Christ, Jackson, MO via Bulletin Digest 10/09

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Just Checking Up

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A young boy walked into a drug store and asked to use the telephone. He asked the operator to give him a certain number.

“Hello, Dr. Anderson. Do you want to hire a boy to cut the grass and run errands for you? Are you completely satisfied with the boy you have? O.K. then, goodbye Doctor.” As the boy thanked the druggist, the druggist said, “Just a minute, son. If you are looking for work, I could use a boy like you.” The boy replied, “Thank you sir, but I have a job.”

“Didn’t I just hear you trying to get a job from Dr. Anderson?”

“No sir,” said the lad, “you see I’m the boy who is working for Dr. Anderson, and I was just checking up on myself.”

It might do us all good to check up on ourselves once in a while to see if God is pleased with our attendance, our giving, our worship, and all the work in His vineyard.

“Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith” 2 Corinthians 13:5.

Findlay church of Christ, Sparta TN via Bulletin Digest October 2009.

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11/22/09

"What Shall I Wear?"

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Do you have trouble each morning deciding what to wear, how to dress? Many in our world do not have this problem for they only have one outfit they can wear. But we in America usually have many choices.

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Paul instructs Christian women in this way: "I also want women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God" (1 Tim. 2:9,10 NIV).

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Even more importantly regarding our dress, the scriptures instruct us that having been baptized we “have clothed ourselves with Christ,” or as the ASV translates: “put on Christ” (Gal. 3:27).

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Then in Romans 13:14 we are commanded “Rather clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ” (NIV), we are to display outwardly what has already taken place inwardly, practicing all the virtues associated with Christ.

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When we are so dressed with Christ a godly, righteous life will follow and we will not be guilty of violating this instruction: “Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissention and jealousy” (Rom. 13:13 NIV). 

Now we know WHO to wear! God helps us all to dress according to the will of God.

Clinton Storm, Merced CA church of Christ 10/25/09

Best Sermon I Ever Heard

As the mother was completing the purchase of two new suits for sons Charles and Arthur, Charles said proudly to his brother, “Won’t I look nice in Bible school Sunday?” A friendly lady standing near overheard him and asked, “Do you go to Bible school?” And the smaller brother, Arthur, only five, giving her a withering glance, inquired, “Where else would I go Sunday morning?” Blushing, the lady remarked, “That’s the best sermon I ever heard.”

The most precious gift we can give our children is not a trip to the beach, a shiny new toy, or a new suit of clothes, but the opportunity to study the God in whose image they are created. Plan to be present with your children for all Bible classes; in this you can give them a gift that will neither grow old nor wear out.

Author unknown, Bulletin Digest November 2009.