The "E" List:

The "E" List: to help with finding a topic look at the words in BOLD print.

Five Short Articles On Jesus’ Kingdom And Reign Here are five articles that were written for our local newspaper. Look below to see if some or all may be of benefit to you or to another you might know.

1. Jesus Is King Of The Jews And Of All Men!

2. The Israel of God Today (With Additional Comments on Zionism).

3. Christianity Does Not Teach Another Temple In Jerusalem!

4. The One Thousand Year Reign Is Not On EARTH!

5. The Battle of “Armageddon.”

Selected Newspaper Articles Here are four newspaper articles presented to the community with a love for the truth. The intent is to present God’s truths without incorporating the emotional flavor so popular with other religious bodies. “When You’re Promised You’ll Like It!” exposes “pitches” for attracting visitors contrasted with what God’s word should produce in those who hear. As one in town put it, “I hate to admit it but going where I go I think at times I’m looking at Ken and Barbie.” Ken and Barbie productions are made to please men not God! (cf. Gal. 1:10). Be aware that God’s word teaches that the fault lies with “both” the listeners and the teachers. Listeners who desire to have their EARS tickled accumulate teachers who will allow them all manner of immoralities. Read about them!

After Baptism, Then What? One important point in this article instructs new Christians to recognize Paul's instruction in I Cor. 5:11 and not EAT with any Christian that does not lead a faithful life. The material offers appropriate encouragement and warnings for those recently baptized for the remission of their sins.

God Turns The Way Of The Wicked Upside Down This lesson considers the path of the wicked that is a familiar topic throughout the Psalms. You will learn about the wicked by the following: (1) God thwarts the way of the wicked (Ps. 146:9); (2) God puts the wicked in great fear because He despises them! (Ps. 53; Lev. 26:14-33); (3) Accusers are filled with their own ways (Ps. 109). This section tells you exactly what will happen to the wicked. They will EAT the fruit of their own ways (sins), and be filled with their own fancies (Pr. 1:31); (4) You will learn about the purpose of their traps they set for the righteous; (5) God overthrows the best of secret counsel (Ps. 64).

After Baptism, Then What? A main point in the article is that new Christians now have the responsibility along with all others to EDIFY and ENCOURAGE others. The material offers appropriate encouragement and warnings for those recently baptized for the remission of their sins.

9-11-2001 ~ Things I Can Count On Today (America was attacked by terrorists on this date. This is a “time” when people thrive upon inappropriate statements, and misleading applications of God’s Word. Illustrations of such would be, “Nostradamas said…,” “Armageddon has come,“ “the Mark of the Beast.“ An important part of this study shows when men have questions as to "Why?" or "What is the future?," that Christians have a limited number of precious things that they can depend upon. These few but precious things are where a christian's life really is any day, and any place that they might be. One of these is that EDIFICATION in its various forms (individual and collective) sustains us at all times. Several points are made as to what edification and the importance of reading the scriptures in order to know God's will.

The Worship of the Church. This is Lesson Five in our Series: "Fundamental Lessons on the Church." Lesson Five: "The Worship of the Church." In this lesson you will be studying the items of worship for the church:

1. The Lord's Supper upon the first day of the week.

2. Instruction in God's word.

3. Singing.

4. Prayer.

5. Giving.

By studying these items of worship you can learn what "EDIFICATION" means and how it was practiced in the assemblies of the first century church.

9-11-2001 ~ Things I Can Count On Today (America was attacked by terrorists on this date. This is a “time” when people thrive upon inappropriate statements, and misleading applications of God’s Word. Many love to “go with the flow,” and jump on the bandwagon! Illustrations of such would be, “Nostradamas said…,” “Armageddon has come,“ “the Mark of the Beast.“ One important point in this presentation is the resolve of nations to rebuild in time past - how it worked and did not work. EDOM will ever stand as a nation with a resolve to rebuild that did not come to pass. (Prov. 14:34; Malachi 1:4)

What You Can And Will Do In Christ This brief study should offer assuramce to Christians that their EFFORTS to serve God faithfully are attainable, as well as being greatly aided by others' prayers on their behalf. What one can and will do by remaining faithful in Christ is declared through the words of Paul's prayer for the church at Colossae in Col. 1:9-12. Here are the key thoughts: A. Be filled with knowledge, all wisdom and spiritual understanding. B. Walk worthy, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. To further describe our EFFORTS, the diligence Peter mentions in his list of virtues is paralleled (2 Peter 5:1-11). C. Strengthened for attaining all steadfastness and patience, with Joy. D. Joyously giving thanks to the Father. Following is a "Check Your Spiritual Growth With Self-Test Questions" giving further emphasis to our growth and development into mature children of God. The stated "goal" of our efforts is seen in Philippians 1:10-11.

God's Divine Organization ~ The Local Church, Part Two of Two This is Lesson Four (Part Two of Two) in our Series: "Fundamental Lessons on the Church." Lesson Four, Part Two: "God's Divine Organization ~ The Local Church, Part Two of Two." In this lesson you will be studying the local church as the organization that God gave for the collective work of Christians in evangelism, edification, worship and benevolence to needy saints. You will take an in depth look at the organization of the local church according to God's pattern in the New Testament. There is abundant material on the fact that each local church had its own ELDERS as overseers or bishops, also called pastors or shepherds. There was always a plurality (more than one) of elders appointed over each local church, Acts 14:23. The qualifications for a man who serves as a bishop or ELDER in Christ's church are present right from the Bible. You can study this lesson and see the difference in the church of Christ and Catholic, denominational and community church organization today!

Local Church Autonomy This is Lesson Six in our Series: "Fundamental Lessons on the Church." Lesson Six: "Local Church Autonomy." Scriptures emphasizing local church autonomy or independence are presented, along with the needed applications for the present day. The works of the local church that ELDERS are responsible for overseeing are listed so that you learn more about the local church and elders.

The Catholic rule of faith is not the New Testament This article discusses the "additions" of Catholicism along with its frank admission that the New Testament scriptures are not its sole authority. These additions, the Catholic hierarchy claims have equal authority to the sacred Scriptures. It is through these "additions" that the hierarchy of the Catholic church maintains and exercises its control over its people. At the end of the article Christ's scriptural qualifications for a bishop or ELDER (also called overseers and pastors) in His church is contrasted with a so-called Bishop in Catholicism. You will be able to see the difference between the two

The Degraded State of the Anglican Church Read the verses in this article about bishops or ELDERS in Christ's church and then consider the various council meetings, emergency meeting, etc., along with the human credentials and advanced technology used to present to the world their stress of trying to decide if homosexuality is sin that cannot be tolerated by their church. Please now, try not to laugh out loud. Why cannot they simply read the Bible?

Spreading Emotionalism Via E-Mails The important warning given on EMOTIONALISM in this article is introduced by, “Dear reader, beware of the appeal of a cute religious story, poem or prose. People love to be told they are the greatest, receive unwarranted sympathy, hear they have surprise coming, etc., and thus be made to feel secure in spite of their ungodliness.” …With a click of a button an EMOTIONALLY charged email can be passed on via one’s mailing list with some kind of careless not attached such as, “Enjoy!”

Selected Newspaper Articles These are selected articles that appeared in our local newspaper, The Sun. The intent of these articles is that each shows a love for and desire to present the Truth without incorporating the emotional flavor so popular with other religious bodies today. Included is “Coming To Worship ~ A Spectator Sport!.” Because laughter is one of the easiest responses to induce it is being used for deception. Laughter keeps one’s EMOTIONS foremost rather than reason; it shuts out thoughts of fearing God, eternity, human frailty, either reward or punishing following one’s death. The sinner is made to feel good when they should feel bad! Moreover, religious counterfeits have seduced the simple minded into accepting the social as the spiritual and worship.

Things Often Missing During Afflictions The applications in this brief study will deal with those who are in affliction. Dear reader, you will notice that with some of these God has no pleasure. For others, they see God’s faithfulness during their afflictions. One must ENDURE afflictions and persecutions and not cast away their confidence! Why not read this either for your self or with a view to being able to help another?

The Way of Integrity Psalms 119 This Psalm is often avoided because of its length. This study begins with eight points on integrity with God. Follow these application is made from each of the remaining sections. Understand that it is on the grounds of your integrity that you may plead to God for protective care against the wicked (Ps. 119:121-128). Because he did not want to wander from God the scriptures would be his counselors (lit., the men of his counsel) to establish his ways. It is God’s word alone that can make you wise, even wiser than your ENEMIES, teachers, and the aged! Those who forget God’s word will become your ENEMY though you considered them a friend! These are but a few of the good lesson presented through studying this Psalm. Why not read the article and while doing so read it along with your Bible?

God Turns The Way Of The Wicked Upside Down This lesson considers the path of the wicked that is a familiar topic throughout the Psalms. You will learn about the wicked by the following: (1) God thwarts the way of the wicked (Ps. 146:9); (2) God puts the wicked in great fear (Ps. 53); (3) Accusers are filled with their own ways (Ps. 109). This section tells you exactly what will happen to the wicked; (4) You will learn about the purpose of their traps they set for the righteous; (5) God overthrows the best of secret counsel. They are bold and ENCOURAGE one another as they talk about their plans (Ps. 64).

Bible Endings For Torn Relationships Five important Bible relationships are presented while giving emphasis to the importance of ENTREATY and reconciliation. The relationships discussed in this article include Cain & Abel, Esau & Jacob, Saul & David, Paul & Barnabas and Euodia & Syntyche. Stated goals for ENTREATING are: 1. To be of the same mind, Phil. 2:2; 2. To be at peace, I Th. 5:13; 3. To understand the outcome of dissension. It strengthens the enemy of the gospel; the weak when pulled in to dissensions are caused to stumble; 4. To repent and return to the work, Rev. 3:19-20; 5. To use with older men, I Tim. 5:1; 6. To implement with God's wisdom which is easy to be entreated, Ja. 3:17-18. Thus one is to be both approachable and easily persuaded to do that which is right.

What You Can And Will Do In Christ This brief study should offer assuramce to Christians that their efforts to serve God faithfully are attainable, as well as being greatly aided by others' prayers on their behalf. What one can and will do by remaining faithful in Christ is declared through the words of Paul's prayer for the church at Colossae in Col. 1:9-12. Here are the key thoughts: A. Be filled with knowledge, all wisdom and spiritual understanding. B. Walk worthy, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. C. Strengthened for attaining all stedfastness and patience, with Joy. D. Joyously giving thanks to the Father. Following is a "Check Your Spiritual Growth With Self-Test Questions" giving further emphasis to our growth in knowledge and ability to discern both good and evil. To do this the Christian must get past carnality and the works of the flesh that make us dull of hearing, and spiteful (ENVY, STRIFE, divisions) of one another (I Cor. 3:1-3). The stated "goal" of our efforts is seen in Philippians 1:10-11.

A Simple Biblical Pattern For Explaining “Why?” A respondent who questioned the matter of judging those who live together without marriage stated, “I think these days it can be a good thing to live together before getting married.... This obviously goes against your feelings, but they're just your feelings, not everyone's." Last of all she stated, "As far as your last sentence, it's not an idea that it's acceptable and normal, these days, IT IS acceptable and normal.... If you don't like it, then don't do it.... I wouldn't criticize you...why do you judge about people who choose to live together?"
This individual wants to know “Why” I would determine that people who choose to live together are wrong in doing so? I presumed this to be an honest question deserving of an answer.

In part, one must understand that following a desire to know God's will as one reads the Bible they must learn to make the proper applications. Proper applications necessitate distinguishing between what is "right" and what is "wrong." Paul said concerning God’s word, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: [17] That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). This article presents the profit of God’s word as seen in Doctrine, Reproof, Correction, Instruction In Righteousness and in EQUIPPING the christian unto every good work.

You saw it so deal with it! You can read about the "immediate" approach of our Lord in correcting ERROR. This is followed with scriptures depicting the responsibility all members have to do the same.

Bible Endings For Torn Relationships Five important Bible relationships are presented while giving emphasis to the importance of entreaty and reconciliation. The relationships discussed in this article include Cain & Abel, ESAU & Jacob, Saul & David, Paul & Barnabas and Euodia & Syntyche. Stated goals for entreating are: 1. To be of the same mind, Phil. 2:2; 2. To be at peace, I Th. 5:13; 3. To understand the outcome of dissension. It strengthens the enemy of the gospel; the weak when pulled in to dissensions are caused to stumble; 4. To repent and return to the work, Rev. 3:19-20; 5. To use with older men, I Tim. 5:1; 6. To implement with God's wisdom which is easy to be entreated, Ja. 3:17-18. Thus one is to be both approachable and easily persuaded to do that which is right.

What To Tell Your Mate When They Are Guilty of Wrath Christians need to study and then be honest and make the right applications to one another, all family members, and especially with their own mates (Cf. I Th. 5:14). Those given to wrath and anger forget that God is not partial.. They are wrong in thinking they will ESCAPE eternal death. God’s forbearance doesn’t mean weakness (connected with their despising or ignoring Him), nor does his longsuffering equal forgiveness! Paul demands repentance!

Reply to a response on "Questions on Witchcraft" (A respondent has present the idea that there was race upon earth who did not have Adam and EVE for their genealogy. She claims to be of this so called "OTHER PEOPLE." The reply shows how her claim doesn't fit with the scriptures in the Bible. EVE was the mother of all living!)

Membership Requirements According to the First Century Revelation This lesson is Lesson Three in our Series: "Fundamental Lessons on the Church." Lesson Three: "Membership Requirements According to the First Century Revelation." In this lesson you will learn about what one must do to be saved and become a member of Christ's church. A full discussion of the conversion of the Ethiopian EUNUCH leads the way as an introduction to the study of the accounts of conversion recorded in the book of Acts. The question, "What must I do to be saved?" is fully answered.

Baptism As Taught From The Bible In this article the example of the baptism of the Ethiopian EUNUCH in the first century is set in contrast with teaching from the Catholic Encylopedia, "Baptism, Sacrament of." The explanation that the Catholic Encyclopedia gives simply does not equate with what the New Testament teaches about baptism being an immersion. The mode of baptism taught in the New Testament is immersion and not "pouring." Concerning John's baptism which preceded the baptism "into Christ" the Bible says, "And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much WATER there: and they came, and were baptized" (John 3:23). Thus with the mention of "much water" one sees the clear idea of the physical act of immersion (being overwhelmed or completely covered). Neither does the New Testament teach a blessing of the water before baptism! Above all the New Testament does not teach infant baptism.

A Request: Pray For Me! This article deals with Christians who request prayer on their behalf. One part of the article stresses things often neglected and overlooked by such a one. Namely, that "the face of the Lord is against those who do EVIL" (I Peter 3:12), and just having someone pray for you without your repentance does not change your standing before God! Additional points are applied concerning the one making the request. It also presents the need for repentance and confession of one's sin as well as an appropriate rebuke at times (I Pet. 3:12, Acts 8:22-24, James 4:4, I John 1:9).

In part, one must understand that following a desire to know God's will as one reads the Bible they must learn to make the proper applications. Proper applications necessitate distinguishing between what is "right" and what is "wrong." Paul said concerning God’s word, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: [17] That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). This article presents the profit of God’s word as seen in Doctrine, Reproof, Correction, Instruction In Righteousness, that he might be perfect, thus throughly equipped unto EVERY GOOD WORK.

Bible Endings For Torn Relationships Five important Bible relationships are presented while giving emphasis to the importance of entreaty and reconciliation. The relationships discussed in this article include Cain & Abel, Esau & Jacob, Saul & David, Paul & Barnabas and EUODIA & Syntyche. Stated goals for entreating are: 1. To be of the same mind, Phil. 2:2; 2. To be at peace, I Th. 5:13; 3. To understand the outcome of dissension. It strengthens the enemy of the gospel; the weak when pulled in to dissensions are caused to stumble; 4. To repent and return to the work, Rev. 3:19-20; 5. To use with older men, I Tim. 5:1; 6. To implement with God's wisdom which is easy to be entreated, Ja. 3:17-18. Thus one is to be both approachable and easily persuaded to do that which is right.

The Local Church And Evangelism Lesson Eight is the final lesson in our Series: "Fundamental Lessons on the Church." This lesson presents the patterns for the local church in the work of supporting EVANGELISTS. It shows how the autonomy of the local church is maintained along with needed applications for the present day. A warning is issued on the kind of promotional letters sent out by the unscriptural sponsoring church arrangement. Emphasis is given to the fact that churches in the New Testament did not attach themselves to human societies in order to be able to do their work. They sent no contributions to human societies and received no donations from human societies. Moreover there were no human societies or foundations set up by brethren for the support of churches of Christ!

What You Can And Will Do In Christ This brief study should offer assuramce to Christians that their efforts to serve God faithfully are attainable, as well as being greatly aided by others' prayers on their behalf. What one can and will do by remaining faithful in Christ is declared through the words of Paul's prayer for the church at Colossae in Col. 1:9-12. Here are the key thoughts: A. Be filled with knowledge, all wisdom and spiritual understanding. B. Walk worthy, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. C. Strengthened for attaining all stedfastness and patience, with Joy. D. Joyously giving thanks to the Father. Following is a "Check Your Spiritual Growth With Self-Test Questions" giving further emphasis to our growth in knowledge and ability to discern both good and EVIL. The stated "goal" of our efforts is seen in Philippians 1:10-11.

Let Us Get You A New Kind Of Preacher! Those full of carnality (works of the flesh) accuse the faithful unjustly with wicked intent, spread strife with their mouths, and set an example of EVIL for others to imitate (cf. 3 John 10-11). They have a goal, an objective, and will sacrifice the truth and brethren to achieve it! These are looking forward to and working towards division in order that they might have their own way, and that with the “kind of preaching” that lacks application and pleases the ungodly (cf. 2 Tim. 4:1-5). Understand that the longer the church postpones dealing with them scripturally the closer they get to their unscriptural goals (cf. Rev. 2:20). There is nothing more carnal, and full of the works of the flesh, that I can think of at this age in my life than brethren who work to stop applicable preaching and teaching. They will stop at nothing to get the “new kind” of preacher. Old warnings need to be issued! As in the past there will always be bigger churches somewhere ready to aid the pattern of apostasy and provide the “new kind” of teachers and preachers. That is how apostasy is able to continue. Brethren beware! It is quite possible that you know of such things happening among us.

The Lies Of Apostasies The full title of this article is “The Pattern Of Lies Producing And Sustaining Apostasies.”. Read this article to study what Jeroboam did wrong when he said in his heart that God’s established order would not work. Besides Jeroboam’s apostasy, the article presents in detail the pattern of lies producing apostasies from the book of Jeremiah. Some important questions answered are: Why do lies prevail? How has the truth been affected? What Lies? What will God do in the end? Here is an excerpt: Why do lies sustaining apostasies prevail? Because they are shrewd to do EVIL (Jer. 4:22). This includes strengthening the hands of EVIL doers so none will turn back (Jer. 23:14). When apostasies go on and continue it is proof that they are shrewd to do evil! Just like Jeroboam above.

After Baptism, Then What? The article discusses the importance of one's EXAMPLE following their baptism. The material offers appropriate encouragement and warnings for those recently baptized for the remission of their sins.

Let Us Get You A New Kind Of Preacher! Those full of carnality (works of the flesh) accuse the faithful unjustly with wicked intent, spread strife with their mouths, and set an EXAMPLE OF EVIL for others to imitate (cf. 3 John 10-11). They have a goal, an objective, and will sacrifice the truth and brethren to achieve it! These are looking forward to and working towards division in order that they might have their own way, and that with the “kind of preaching” that lacks application and pleases the ungodly (cf. 2 Tim. 4:1-5). Understand that the longer the church postpones dealing with them scripturally the closer they get to their unscriptural goals (cf. Rev. 2:20). There is nothing more carnal, and full of the works of the flesh, that I can think of at this age in my life than brethren who work to stop applicable preaching and teaching. They will stop at nothing to get the “new kind” of preacher. Old warnings need to be issued! As in the past there will always be bigger churches somewhere ready to aid the pattern of apostasy and provide the “new kind” of teachers and preachers. That is how apostasy is able to continue. Brethren beware! It is quite possible that you know of such things happening among us.

The Majority Know Another Jesus The church at Corinth gladly tolerated fools who taught another Jesus and different gospel, Paul said (cf. 2 Cor. 11:4, 19). It is possible for one to read the trifling literature of fools and possess a completely false view of Jesus. Read the Gospels for your self and see what He really did do and teach. Here’s a start with applications from the Gospels themselves that show the stark differences between what most think Jesus taught and what He really did teach! Verses are presented that deal with: (10) having heard you HAVE NO EXCUSE FOR SIN…

A Case Study of Mourning Sin: This article explains in detail what it truly means to mourn the sins we see others commit. For example, one point given is we mourn the sins of another when we tell one his or her EXCUSES have come to an end, I Samuel 15:22-23. Several applicable points are presented.

Age Old Sayings Of Complacency We often speak of “age old philosophies” in the context of them being man’s flimsy EXCUSES wherein he justifies himself in ungodliness. Solomon said there is nothing new under the sun. Why not take a trip through the ages and look at some age old sayings of complacency along with the type of individuals who make them?

Telling Members They Are Sinning In Deliberately Missing Church This article is one of the most needed and necessary lessons of our day. Beginning with a list of well known EXCUSES offered by brethren from all over, the blame is placed where it should be and this is with the unfaithfulness of the church as a “whole.” Local churches are failing miserably in making certain of any particular member’s faithfulness, and thus not to be guilty of allowing unfaithfulness. That “fear” is the main reason there is an obvious (manifest) attendance problem in so many churches is plainly stated. Members themselves are afraid of disciplining for fear of losing numbers, finances, status, etc. God’s people should be told their sins! Are you afraid to do that?

God Turns The Way Of The Wicked Upside Down This lesson considers the path of the wicked that is a familiar topic throughout the Psalms. You will learn about the wicked by the following: (1) God thwarts the way of the wicked (Ps. 146:9); (2) God puts the wicked in great fear because He despises them! (Ps. 53; Lev. 26:14-33); (3) Accusers are filled with their own ways (Ps. 109). This section tells you exactly what will happen to the wicked; (4) You will learn about the purpose of their traps they set for the righteous. Their wicked plots and devices are in order that they might EXHALT themselves!; (5) God overthrows the best of secret counsel (Ps. 64).

Selected Newspaper Articles Here are four newspaper articles presented to the community with a love for the truth. The intent is to present God’s truths without incorporating the emotional flavor so popular with other religious bodies: (4) “Justifying Self By Saying Church Responsibility Is Not Necessary” answers four popular self justifications offered for not studying and seeking to worship in a scriptural church. The oft repeated self justification based on the kingdom is: 2. “Jesus said the kingdom of God is within you.” Answer: Christ dwells in the heart of true Christians (Eph. 3:17), and they will not disobey this command to not forsake assembling themselves together: “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but EXHORTING ONE ANOTHER: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Heb. 10:25). Why not read the pitiful self justifications along with their scriptural answers?

The Paths of Mercy The subject of God’s great mercy is connected with the things that He delights in. God delights in Loving-kindness, Justice and Righteousness, thus the necessity of our glorying in these things in order that we might receive His mercy! Moreover, God’s mercy is for those who fear Him (Ps. 103:17-18). We must remember that it is in the practice of mercy itself that we receive back from God (Ps. 18:25-27). Along with these there is a checklist of applications on God’s kindness that includes the EXPECTATION that I will see it.

The Beginning Point Leading To Salvation This article should help anyone today who has come to realize that the variety of explanations offered today due to diverse human philosophies and beliefs have left many frustrated concerning the important matter of salvation. Three such beliefs, the PENTECOSTAL EXPERIENCE, adults baptizing infants, and professing belief without required obedience are examined in the light of God's word and found wanting! If you will take your Bible and read each scripture in this brief study it will enable you to be honest with yourself (see Acts 17:11) about your own salvation. Moreover, it will help prevent the all too common occurrence of many misleading others by that with which they were lead astray themselves.

Why We Rejoice With One Another God delights over His people to do them good (De. 28:63). The Psalmist said, “Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart” (Ps. 97:11). We are commanded to rejoice with those who rejoice, and to weep with those who weep, being of the same mind one toward another (Rom. 12:15-16). Our being sorrowful when one is arrogant and suffers is different from sharing joy and sorrow as Paul spoke of. If one of us suffers because we remain arrogant and obstinate then our tears will be the tears of Jeremiah if we love them (cf. Jer. 13:17). However, you will find such “rejoice with” applications in this article as (1) I Can Rejoice With One Who Is Faithful Whom I Know God Delights Over To Do Good; (2) I Can’t Rejoice With Another When I See The Vanity Of The World; (3) I Can Rejoice With One Who Rejoice In Truth; (4) I Can Rejoice With One Who Wants God’s Instruction, Counsel, And EYE Upon Them.

A Case Of Compromise The primary part of this study concerns Jehoshaphat (the king of Judah) and his compromise with wicked Ahab the king of Israel (the northern kingdom). It compares Ahab's religion with the description of Jehoshaphat who did not let the Levitical service and the Temple deteriorate, but was diligent in having the law of God taught in Judah (2 Ch. 17:6-9). A secondary point is that we should follow the example of EZRA in the book of Ezra and make sure that our actions match our statements we make about God's goodness, providence and power in our lives (Ezra 8:21-32). This simple lesson shows why people compromise the Truth along with the attendant consequences for doing such.

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