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

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. Moreover, you can study how afflictions cause one to want to learn and KEEP God’s precepts! Why not read this either for yourself 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. The writer desired the kind of blessings in life that would enable him to KEEP God’s commandments. 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). We ask God to revive us in order that we might KEEP His testimonies! At times afflictions are a part of God making us to understand and KEEP His precepts.

Casting Down Eloquence & Sophistry Series (2 Cor. 10:4-5) While professing love and understanding false teachers make a mockery of Christ’s teaching in “how” they use Matt. 22:39 – they twist “love thy neighbor as thyself.” They fail to put it properly with the preceding first and greatest commandment – to love God with one’s “all” (cf. Matt. 22:37-38). This love (agapao) is found in both the Old and New Testaments (cp. Rom. 13:8-10). It carries with it the idea of duty and obedience to God. If you love God you will KEEP His commandments (cf. Jo. 14:15, 21, 23; I Jo. 5:6). To “not” love God is to “not” keep His commandments (Jo. 14:24). Loving your neighbor is not allowing your friend to sin and not reproving him!

“All You Really Have To Do Is Believe In God” Jesus said, “Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven” (Matt. 7:21). See below for KEEPING the Father’s Word which is Christ’s Commandments.

Points made concerning both the Father’s will and JESUS are:

1. Jesus did the will of the father who sent Him (cf. John 6:37-38).

2. Jesus’ words are the Father’s (John 17:14, 17).

3. Jesus was seeking the Father’s glory not His own (Jo. 7:17-18).

4. Jesus’ authority was the Father’s! (Read John 12:48-50).

5. Jesus gave us the Father’s word which is truth (John 17:14, 17).

6. One cannot come to Christ except by the will of the Father (Jo. 6:37).

7. The Father’s will is that you believe in Jesus His Son (Jo. 6:45).

8. The “work of God,” or requirement of God is that one believes in Jesus whom He has sent (John 6:26-29).

9. The Father’s will is that eternal life comes through belief in Christ (John 6:40).

10. Eternal life is gained by knowing His Father and the Son whom He sent (Jo. 17:3).

11. Jesus is the only way to the Father (Jo. 14:6).

12. The doing of the Father’s will establishes one’s relationship with Christ (Matt. 12:50).

13. Those who do believe will not perish (Jo.3:16).

14. The belief in Christ that saves is a belief that obeys Him, else the wrath of God abides upon one (cf. Matt. 7:21; Jo. 3:36; Heb. 5:9).

15. The one who doesn’t believe God has given us eternal life in His Son makes God a liar ( I John 5:10-11).

16. This is all based in the Scriptures (John 5:39; De. 18:18-19).

17. Jesus didn’t say that they “can’t” believe and obey but they “would not” (John 8:24).

18. His word which was the Father’s necessitates baptism for initial obedience in order that one might be saved (cf. Matt. 28:18-20 “all” authority for “all” nations; Mk. 16:15-16; Acts 16:31; Acts 22:16 an example of Saul obeying the Son of God).

19. Christ was “end of the Law” (Rom. 10:4). Both Jew and Gentile are saved the same way by obeying the Gospel (Rom. 1:16, 17, Rom. 3:29-30).

20. To believe in Christ is to believe in the Father (cf. John 12:44-45). Of course, for that is the Father’s will! (see above)

21. To reject Christ is to reject the Father’s word (cf. John 12:48-50, 14:24). Read the boldness of Peter and John in the newspaper article above (Acts 4:12-13).

22. To receive Christ is to receive the Father (cf. John 13:20). Jesus told why some do not receive Him (cf. John 5:43-44).

23. If you don’t love Christ you don’t keep the Father’s words (cf. John 14:24).

24. If you keep the Father’s will you will keep Christ’s commandments (cf. John 14:15, 24, 12:49).

25. To abide in Jesus’ love is to abide in the Father’s love (cf. John 14:21, 15:9-10; I John 4:16).

26. To be in Christ is to be in the Father (cf. I John 4:15-16).

27. Knowing the Son is knowing the Father (cf. John 14:7-10, 1:18, 10:15; Matt. 11:27 Plain!).

28. If you deny the Son you do not have the Father (cf. I John 2:23). You’ve called God a liar! (I John 5:10). You will die in your sins (John 8:24). Those who deny the Son are in the power of Satan (I John 5:19-20).

29. Whoever confesses the Son has the Father (cf. I John 2:23).

30. Does the Father’s will really say all that one must do is believe in God in a very general way? No!

This becomes, when we understand the expression “the will of My Father,” the very lesson people need who say Jesus is Lord and then profess there are other religions that lead to the Father that don’t believe Jesus is Lord (cp. Lk. 6:46). And again, notice in our study what knowing and doing “the will of My Father” does to the statement often heard, i.e. all you have to do is believe in God.

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 the New Testament emphasis is primarily a spiritual KEEPING (Luke 21:16-19). Several points are made to show that through perseverance and patience we gain eternal life.

Selected Newspaper Articles for “The Sun,” Yuma, AZ. These four articles appeared in our local newspaper, “The Sun,” Yuma, AZ.: (1) “We’re Just A Bunch Of KIDS Here!” presents the frivolous attitude manifested by both adults and young adults in churches today that fails to properly warn young people to “trust in the Lord; lean not unto thine own understanding” (Cf. Prov. 3:5-6; 22:15; 19:18); (2) “Scriptural Warnings For Grad Night”; (3) “Much Is Lacking In The Sinner’s Prayer”; (4) “Tell Me I’m A Great Guy!” ~ This brief article deals with winter visitors and the disgusting way in which churches vie with other churches for both numerical and financial advantage. As the topic suggests, “I’m back and now you may get your chance at telling me what a great guy I am.”

Selected Newspaper Articles Dear reader the following titles are selected newspaper articles that appeared in our local newspaper the Yuma 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. The topics are: “The Buyer Is Like The Seller; The Creditor Is Like The Debtor” (What God’s word says about liars, cheats and murderers applies to all – the rich and poor!); “WICKED Kids, Teens, Beating & Stomping Others” This exposes the lie, “Oh they’re just too young to know better!”; “Some Wrights Are So Wrong” (When so called “Pastors” are asked if John 14:6 is true and if they think Islam is another way to salvation, and then suggest that there is another path to the Father they deny what Jesus and the apostles taught! (cf. John 12:48).

Selected Newspaper Articles The following are selected newspaper articles ran by the Valley church of Christ for 2009-2010. We put some together periodically in order to post them on our website. Both churches and preachers would do well to consider that just offering a few scriptural points on important topics can go a long way in helping others. Consider the following points on (1) Why Pentecostal / Charismatic Tactics Easily Deceive; (2) Complaining With No Intention Of Making Things Scriptural; (3) Stupid KID’S GAMES Draw Customers; (4) Liberation Theology & Marxist Ideology; (5) Human Creeds & Statements of Faith.

The Conduct God Expects From Our Members Read this article and it should help you to better understand the "unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Eph. 4:1-3; Col. 3:12-14). These 7 Virtues are discussed as being necessary for each member of the local church: Lowliness (Humility), Meekness (Gentleness), Longsuffering (Patience), Forebearing (Showing Tolerance), Tender Mercies (Heart of Compassion), KINDNESS and Forgiving one another. Understanding these in this context answers such important questions as: Whom can I talk to? When do I go to another? Can I speak publicly in rebuking to thus maintain this unity? What would a refusal to listen indicate? And what happens to one who does not forgive if one repents?

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). The stubborn and unrepentant heart despises the riches of God’s KINDNESS, forbearance and longsuffering!

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.

Be Sure to Keep Christ at New Years! Here us application on drinking. The words of KING Lemuel present an appropriate lesson for Government Officials, Kings, those in high places who rule.

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. This ignores the plain declaration that Jesus is KING today! (I Tim. 6:13-16).

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. The first of these things is that Christ Jesus (God) reigns as "KING of kings" over all things in heaven and on earth (Matt. 28:18-20).

(1) Jesus Is King of the Jews And All Men; (2) The Israel Of God Today Here are two short newspaper articles. Jesus is not only the KING over the Jews today but He is everyone’s KING. He rules today from heaven and has all authority in heaven and upon earth (Read and understand ~ Lk. 10:22; John 3:35; 5:22-27;17:2,10; Matt. 28:18-20; Eph. 1:19-23). The modern state of Israel is not like the Biblical theocracy that the Israel of old at one time was. Moreover, the spiritual Israel of God today is the church that consists of both Jews and Gentiles serving God by faith in Jesus as the Son of God. Why not read these two articles and begin to learn more about Jesus Christ as our KING?

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.”

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. There are but two kingdoms spiritually. The KINGDOM of Christ, and the KINGDOM of Satan.

The mark of the beast, 666, Rev. 13:16-17 Among other things this articles shows the fulfillment of Daniel's prophecy (Daniel 2:44) that the KINGDOM of Christ would be established during the days of the Roman Empire.

The Establishment of the Church of Christ Series: "Fundamental Lessons on the Church." Lesson One. This is the first of eight lessons on the church Christ built. This lessons presents prophecies foretelling the establishment of the KINGDOM and the church. The church was planned in eternity before the world began. Lesson One presents the following truths: 1. God sent His Son. 2. The Jews, His own people, rejected Him. 3. The KINGDOM "was" established in spite of His rejection and the efforts of His enemies (Ps. 2; Matt. 16:18-19; 18:18; Mark 9:1; John 18:36; Col. 1:12-14 where Christians were "in" the kingdom). What people fail to understand is the place of Christ's church in relation to His kingdom.

Selected Newspaper Articles Here are four newspaper articles presented to the community with a love for the truth. Number (4) “Justifying Self By Saying Church Responsibility Is Not Necessary” answers self-justifications offered for failing to assemble and worship with a scriptural local church of Christ. One excuse is that 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 the command to not forsake assembling themselves together in Heb. 10:25. Why not read the pitiful self justifications along with their scriptural answers?

The Quran On Jesus (Series) This series presents basic teachings about the present REIGN & KINGDOM OF CHRIST all people need to hear! You will often hear that Islam honors all prophets, including Jesus. Just what “kind” of honor does Islam give to the Lord Jesus Christ? It is certainly not that they believe in His deity because they do not. The truth is Islam repeatedly denies that Jesus is God. Islam also denies the basic tenants of the New Testament teaching about Jesus and salvation. How do you supposedly honor Him when the honor you give to Him is the dishonor of saying He was not who He said He was? Why not follow this series and see the many truths that Islam denies about Jesus that the New Testament teaches and Christians believe?

Should “Grass Roots” Pol. Movements Address Local Churches of Christ This is election year and I’m hearing that a pastor (denominational usage) is afraid if he doesn’t allow his church to have a requested political presentation from our grass root political movement. It never dawned on such that all members of a local church of Christ would be in scriptural agreement that such is not authorized as part of an assembly of the church. Read this study to understand why all the members of the local church are in agreement, and make no apologies for respecting the authorized work of the assemblies of the church.

INCLUDED:

1. Christ’s KINGDOM is a Spiritual Kingdom, Col. 1:13.

2. The Local Church With It’s Own Oversight & Collective Work.

3. Assemblies are the Collective Function of the particular Local “Body” as an Organization.

4. Some Scripturally Authorized Purposes for the Assemblies of the Local Church.

5. Christians as Individuals Participated in Government.

6. God did not Give the Gospel to Civil Government.

7. A Civil or State Religion.

8. Concerning Political Movements & Organizations.

9. Man’s Ways are not God’s Ways (Isa. 55:8-9).

10. It is Not a Matter of Just Losing One’s Tax Exempt Status.

What Every Politician Needs to Know Applicable lessons based upon David’s addresses, and of course God’s, to Solomon concerning his reign upon David’s throne form the background of this particular article. Read about Solomon’s throne and exemplification of one of his own proverbs: “It is an abomination to KINGS to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness” (Prov. 6:12). This article states what KINGS, rulers, officials, presidents, congressmen, mayors and councilmen need to hear. Applications are also made from the book of Jeremiah and the Psalms denouncing oppression, fraud, extortion, cruelty and the destruction of the foundation of society.

The Correct Delight of Kings “The appreciation of “the delight of KINGS” of Israel --- kept in proper context under the Old Covenant --- is seen in their fear of God and obedience to His commands given to Israel. The commands for them to love truth and righteousness, and some doing so, stands in contrast to the wickedness of rulers and magistrates today!”

Aids & Additions (Expediencies Reviewed) Most churches never speak out on the necessity of having “scriptural authority” for what one believes and practices. In fact, most are not willing to deal with the subject because of the lack of authority for things they are doing. It is important to know the difference between “aids” used to carry out what is authorized versus “additions” which are things not authorized. This lesson should help with that distinction. Before brethren justify something based upon expediency they must first state the authorized work, need or thing commanded to be done and then proceed to expediencies to carry out the specific thing commanded. Sadly, some brethren will reason on the basis of what they “like” or “enjoy” and seek to incorporate it into the work and worship of the local church while not having scriptural authority to do so. Applications are made to these important topics: (1) Instruction to Assemble; (2) The Example of a Treasury; (3) Why the church building is authorized; (4) Social Functions: KITCHENS, Fellowship Halls & Game Rooms On Church Grounds; (5) The Assemblies of the church in I Cor. 11, 14; (6) Acts 2:42-46; (7) The Serving of the Widows, Acts 6:1-6.

“All You Really Have To Do Is Believe In God” Jesus said, “Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven” (Matt. 7:21). See below to understand that KNOWING the Son is KNOWING the Father.