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

Messianic Jewish churches ~ A critique of one of the newer movements (denominations) today, Messianic Judaism. These are Jews who profess belief in Jesus of Nazareth as the Messiah. Their worship appears to be a combination of Old and New Testament items. They look for a return of Christ, whom they do believe is the Messiah, back to the earth in order to reign from Jerusalem. One point made concerns assembling on the SABBATH.

Things in Christ not found in Islam One simple but effective way of explaining the difference between a major “world” religion and the gospel of Christ (the New Testament, Matt. 26:28) is to show the things found “in Christ” that are not found elsewhere. The following are things found in Jesus Christ that are not found in Islam; one these being that God Himself declares Christ's death to be an acceptable SACRIFICE for sin.

"What went you out…to see?" This is a lesson on dress. The study first looks at Jesus' teaching concerning "anxiety" and dress (Matt. 6, the Sermon on the Mount). Following this, application is drawn from the use of "clothing" as a metaphor in warning against false religious teachers (Matt. 7:15). A very important lesson is drawn from His teaching concerning the hypocritical Jewish leaders who were skilled in identifying their "own" holy signs of dress, yet so unskilled in listening to God's word and identifying "proper" conduct. What it means to present one's self as A LIVING SACRIFICE , holy, acceptable to God (Rom. 12:1-2), is viewed in the light of proper dress and conduct. The kind of conduct that shows respect for oneself, for others, and manifests one's self control (I Tim. 2:8-9).

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.“ And 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 the New Testament emphasis is that we are spiritually SAFE (SAFETY) in Christ (Luke 21:16-19). Several points are made to show that through perseverance and patience we gain eternal life.

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. You can read about how Christians in the local church at Philippi were called "SAINTS." The word obviously does not refer to one who has been dead for a long time, who then must go through a rigorous rite of passage contrived by mere "men" in order to be pronounced a "saint" long after they have died!

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.

Who Can Forgive Sins But God Alone? The various accounts of Jesus’ power to forgive sins during His personal ministry testified to Him being God. He forgave sins for both men and women. In Matt. 9:1-8 when Jesus healed the paralytic He wanted them to know that the Son of Man had authority to forgive sins. The simple point is He had the authority do so because He was God. We must accept that and keep it in the “time” period in which it occurred. This article explains the purpose of John’s baptism, as well as the forgiveness and SALVATION of the thief who was crucified with Jesus (Lk. 23:43). The Lord said that He came to seek and to save the lost (Lk. 19:10). Thus He forgave sins as one of the blessings of His presence among men.

A Study On Mercy A fourfold distinction is presented concerning God’s great mercy: (1) The General Mercy of God to his creation and creatures; (2) We Are SAVED By God’s Mercy; (3) There Is A Mercy For Those who HAVE BEEN SAVED; (4) Mercy As Practiced BY THE SAVED. The great danger is that man, for the most part, chooses to presume upon God’s mercy to the neglect of meeting the conditions that He laid down as necessary in obedience to the Gospel that they might be saved!

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. She claims SATAN is a Christian ideal and not theirs. The reply shows that man has known SATAN since the beginning of time. He is a real spiritual being! There are but two kingdoms spiritually. The kingdom of Christ, and the kingdom of SATAN.

Things in Christ not found in Islam One simple but effective way of explaining the difference between a major “world” religion and the gospel of Christ (the New Testament, Matt. 26:28) is to show the things found “in Christ” that are not found elsewhere. One point developed is that Jesus through His death and resurrection destroyed SATAN'S power over death (Heb. 2:14; I Cor. 15:56-57).

The Appreciation Of Godly Sisters In Christ The tremendous value of our sisters in Christ is set forth in this article. Beginning with the honor that is due to faithful women in Christ, the study sets forth the various duties enjoined upon them in regards to their family and service rendered to the church that Christ built. They are to be ready unto every good work (Eph. 2:10, I Tim. 5:10, Titus 3:1, 2:14). We are all to stay ready unto every good work (Titus 3:1). Consider by contrast that the sisters are not among the unappreciated mentioned in I Timothy 5. The first thing said about the unappreciated sister(s) is she gives herself to wanton pleasure and is dead while she lives (I Tim. 5:6). Sensual desires lead to her casting off the faith (I Tim. 5:10-13). Paul implores with the duties in I Tim. 5:14 that come with marriage, bearing children, managing the household, and giving no occasion to adversary for reproach. He warns that others would follow what some had already done in TURNING ASIDE AFTER SATAN (I Tim. 5:15). Why not study the nine points of application directed towards their being scripturally appreciated?

Has Someone Pulled The Plug From Your Life? Read this article if you are concerned for those, possibly yourself, who never understand how to find SATISFACTION (Happiness) in life.

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 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: (8) QUIT SAYING YOU UNDERSTAND Christ’s word when you don’t accept and do it when you hear it…

"What went you out…to see?" This is a lesson on dress. The study first looks at Jesus' teaching concerning "anxiety" and dress (Matt. 6, the Sermon on the Mount). Following this, application is drawn from the use of "clothing" as a metaphor in warning against false religious teachers (Matt. 7:15). A very important lesson is drawn from His teaching concerning the hypocritical Jewish leaders (SCRIBES and Pharisees) who were skilled in identifying their "own" holy signs of dress, yet so unskilled in listening to God's word and identifying "proper" conduct. What it means to present one's self as a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God (Rom. 12:1-2), is viewed in the light of proper dress and conduct. The kind of conduct that shows respect for oneself, for others, and manifests one's self control (I Tim. 2:8-9).

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 Christians believe all SCRIPTURE is inspired of God (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Following one’s 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 the SCRIPTURES as seen in Doctrine, Reproof, Correction, Instruction In Righteousness and in Equipping the Christian unto every good work.

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. You will note that our inconsistencies are often our reproach in life. And that there is boldness in serving God when there are no inconsistencies. 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). He did not want to wander from God therefore the SCRIPTUIRES would be his counselors (lit., the men of his counsel) to establish his ways. 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 (Ps. 64). They shoot from “concealment” (SECRET) and without fear of God but only for a while, Ps. 64:2-4.

How Will God Feel About You When You Ask Him For Help? This article deals with those times when man SEEKS God’s help. Do you know someone who is in trouble and needs God’s help? In this brief study the scriptures are related to three important questions dealing with those times when we need, desire, and ask for God’s help: (1) When you want God’s help how fast do you want Him there? (2) When we need Him to deliver us how far do we want Him from us? (3) How do you want God to feel about you when you ask Him to help you?

Selected Newspaper Articles From The Valley Church of Christ What is the local church to present to one who should be SEEKING God for salvation? Simply stated, the church has the responsibility to be the pillar and support of the truth as revealed in the New Testament, Paul said (I Tim. 3:15). This involves presenting “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). Thus there will be no holding back in order to impress and attract visitors. It should never be as one explained in saying that the district had sent their church notice not to teach on divorce, for that would keep them from being “SEEKER FRIENDLY.” Why not read this short article titled “Holding Back Truth To Be A ‘SEEKER FRIENDLY’ Church?

"What went you out…to see?" This is a lesson on dress and modesty, emphasizing one's SELF CONTROL. The brief study first looks at what Jesus said about clothing. An application is drawn from His use of "clothing" as a metaphor in warning against false religious teachers, Matt. 7:15. A very important lesson is drawn from His teaching concerning the hypocritical Jewish leaders who were skilled in identifying their "own" holy signs of dress, yet so unskilled in listening to God's word and identifying "proper" conduct. What it means to present one's self as a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God (Rom. 12:1-2), is viewed in the light of proper dress and conduct. The kind of conduct that shows respect for oneself, for others, and manifests one's modesty and self control (I Tim. 2:8-9).

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). These must be told about their rage against faithful preachers and teachers when the Truth spoken hits their pocket books! They are “SELFISHLY AMBITIOUS” when they refuse to obey the precepts on giving spite and strife!

The Appreciation Of Godly Sisters In Christ The tremendous value of our sisters in Christ is set forth in this article. Beginning with the honor that is due to faithful women in Christ, the study sets forth the various duties enjoined upon them in regards to their family and service rendered to the church that Christ built. They are to be ready unto every good work (Eph. 2:10, I Tim. 5:10, Titus 3:1, 2:14). We are all to stay ready unto every good work (Titus 3:1). Consider by contrast that the sisters are not among the unappreciated mentioned in I Timothy 5. The first thing said about the unappreciated sister(s) is she gives herself to wanton pleasure and is dead while she lives (I Tim. 5:6). SENSUAL DESIRES lead to her casting off the faith (I Tim. 5:10-13). That is followed by the duties in I Tim. 5:14 that come with marriage, bearing children, managing the household, and giving no occasion to adversary for reproach. Paul adds that others would follow what some had already done in turning aside after Satan (I Tim. 5:15). Why not study the nine points of application directed towards their being scripturally appreciated?

"What went you out…to see?" This is a lesson on dress. The study first looks at Jesus' teaching concerning "anxiety" and dress (Matt. 6, the Sermon on the Mount). Following this, application is drawn from the use of "clothing" as a metaphor in warning against false religious teachers (Matt. 7:15). A very important lesson is drawn from His teaching concerning the hypocritical Jewish leaders who were skilled in identifying their "own" holy signs of dress, yet so unskilled in listening to God's word and identifying "proper" conduct. What it means to present one's self as a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God which is one's reasonable SERVICE (Rom. 12:1-2), is viewed in the light of proper dress and conduct. The kind of conduct that shows respect for oneself, for others, and manifests one's self control (I Tim. 2:8-9).

A Consideration of I Cor. 14:34-35 Women’s conduct in both learning and teaching. The role of women in the church is of such a nature that they are to learn in quietness with all submission. They must not teach, nor usurp authority the man, but be in quietness ( I Tim. 2:11-12).The necessity of this role prompted the following statement to the church at Corinth: "Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. [35] And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a SHAME for women to speak in the church" ( I Cor. 14:34-35).

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. God clothes the wicked with SHAME and dishonor! (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). He fills their faces with SHAME, that they might seek Him! Some can be brought to the Lord by the defeat of their own wicked schemes and the attendant SHAME! Those who are not will be put to SHAME and perish in their SHAME! (Ps. 83:16-18).

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 SHEPHERDS as pastors, also called elders, bishops and overseers. The qualifications for a man who serves as a bishop or overseer 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!

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 SHOOT from “concealment” (secret) and without fear of God. When they think their plan is perfected and complete, then God will SHOOT at them! God SHOOTS back! Suddenly they are wounded and distressed! (Ps.64).

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 craftsmen forming a well thought out plan (SHREWD) carefully perfected (Ps. 64).

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. We are not to be among those who SHRINK BACK to perdition! For others, they see God’s faithfulness during their afflictions. Why not read this either for your self or with a view to being able to help another?

The Foolishness In Forgetting God’s Word Trials should not cause us to forget God’s law! We can receive strength in remembering past trials we persevered in (Cf. Heb. 10:32-34). The one who perseveres does not SHRINK BACK! Why not read this article and acquaint yourself with what is happening when one forgets God’s law?

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 SICKNESS. The pattern for the SICK is that they call for brethren to pray for them, James 5:14-15. Why not read this either for your self or with a view to being able to help another?

A Consideration of I Cor. 14:34-35 Women’s conduct in both learning and teaching. The role of women in the church is of such a nature that they are to learn in quietness with all submission. They must not teach, nor usurp authority the man, but be in quietness ( I Tim. 2:11-12).The necessity of this role prompted the following statement to the church at Corinth: "Let your women KEEP SILENCE in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. [35] And if they will learn anything, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church." I Cor. 14:34-35

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 in these short articles is “War Protesters.” This article is about the great spiritual warfare that is being waged against Satan today. Those on Satan’s side protest with “Peace, peace, when there is no peace” (cf. Ezek. 13:10). For such war protesters the only evil is another’s intolerance! These protesters brag on themselves, with their fleshly wisdom, while speaking against those who are striving to please God and not man (cf. Jo. 5:44; 12:43). They are cowards who fear man and not God! They compromise with Satan being driven by their own lusts to gain wealth, status, power and acceptance with man, not God (cf. Ja. 3:14). Their carnal wisdom tells them their SILENCE in speaking for the truth will render them the approval they seek from men. Moreover, they love to hear one another speak! (cf. I Tim. 4:1-4).

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. You will note that our inconsistencies are often our reproach in life. And that there is boldness in serving God when there are no inconsistencies. Understand that it is God’s word sought and treasured in our heart that keeps us from SIN (Ps. 119:9-16). Restraining the feet from SIN is the result of knowledge applied! In answer to his prayers, his hope of deliverance from man’s oppression was founded upon his freedom from SIN’S dominion over him! Why not read the article and while doing so read it along with your Bible?

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: (2) “Politics Does Not Make Evil To Be Good!” presents the fear associated with “political correctness” in our society contrasted with true Christians’ desire to tell people they are wrong morally, i.e. religiously. Politicians, like so called ministers, who tell others they don’t believe “for