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

A Lesson On Being Fleeceable For The Naïve (Gullible) And Simple Minded Some are amazed at just how NAÏVE (gullible) Christians can be. At least that’s what some say. This response was written to concur with such amazement. Why not read it and learn why some believe everything they are told?

For the Naïve, Scoffers and Fools In Proverbs chapter one “Wisdom” shouts publicly to all including the simple minded (NAÏVE), scorners (scoffers) and fools. Religious and scriptural applications are made with propaganda techniques. God doesn’t Name Call. If God says someone or some group is stupid then they are stupid! God does not use Glittering Generalities. He did not choose words and phrases with always favorable implications! God does not use the Plain Folks approach. God is not just one of us! God Used “True” Guilt By Association. The three mentioned in the title are grouped and belong together, God says. God did not use the Band Wagon. Accepting God’s law and obeying it will not put you in the majority!

Rule of Law Points From the authority implied in the “NAME” of Jesus Christ, who has all authority, several points are made concerning the Gospel as the power of God unto salvation for all men, Jesus’ authority to judge by His law, Sin as a violation of Christ’s law and how His law convicts of sin. Major emphasis is also given to the RULE OF LAW of law being attacked by ignorance, wrongful intent, good intentions, sincerity, carelessness, ignoring, impulse and inconsistency, showing partiality, outright defiance, distortion of one’s words and partial narratives of the Word (to neglect to teach the whole counsel of God, Acts 20:27, 32.). Applications include God is no respecter of persons, to show respect of persons is sin, the kind of judgment that condemns oneself, and the one who boasts in God’s law but dishonors God through breaking the law.

Identity Theft  Here is a lesson based upon the prevalence of “identity theft.” This lesson answers the questions, What is identity theft? How do thieves steal an identity? What do thieves do with a stolen identity? How can you find out if your identity was stolen? And what can you do to help fight identity theft? --- All with a spiritual view as to the use of Christ’s NAME without proper permission and how Christ name theft crimes take many forms. It is important that both of the names “Christian” and “brethren” be carefully guarded. Spiritually the unity of belief and practice of the one Gospel is the means by which we fight identity theft and protect against those who wear Christ’s NAME who are frauds. You will find twelve scriptural and helpful applications for detecting these impostors who preach another Gospel. Such will “rob” you of your prize if you let them (Col. 2:18-19).

The Name “Christian” and the “Churches of Christ” Concerning the NAMES “Christian” and the “Churches of Christ” (Rom. 16:16). By the early 1900s the clear distinction between the Church of Christ and the Disciples of Christ had been drawn: Concerning churches that opposed the use of instrumental music in the worship, and missionary organizations: “In 1906, J.W. Shepherd and others had representations to the Census Bureau of the United States government that churches of this persuasion should no longer be listed with the Disciples of Christ but be designated as Church of Christ.” (Murch, pg. 218) “By 1909…some three hundred thousand members were listed under “Churches of Christ,” in comparison with 1, 300,000 listed as “Disciples of Christ.” (Murch, pg. 218)

The Centennial Celebration of Thomas Campbell’s Declaration and Address & “Casual Listeners” Concerning the NAMES “Christian” and the “Churches of Christ” (Rom. 16:16). This article presents once again the difference in the “Churches of Christ” and the “Disciples of Christ” --- further shown with a brief discussion of what is called “The Great Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Gathering of 1909” when the Disciples celebrated the centennial celebration of Thomas Campbell’s Declaration and Address.

For the Naïve, Scoffers and Fools In Proverbs chapter one “Wisdom” shouts publicly to all including the simple minded (naïve), scorners (scoffers) and fools. Religious and scriptural applications are made with propaganda techniques. God doesn’t NAME CALL. If God says someone or some group is stupid then they are stupid! God does not use Glittering Generalities. He did not choose words and phrases with always favorable implications! God does not us the Plain Folks approach. God is not just one of us! God Used “True” Guilt By Association. The three mentioned in the title are grouped and belong together, God says. God did not use the Band Wagon. Accepting God’s law and obeying it will not put you in the majority!

How to Deal With Issues While Loving and Following Jesus Those who deal with issues that come up concerning sound doctrine are often called arrogant for doing so. But think of the arrogance that exempts from the task. Brethren (including all members) don’t get to decide “which issues” they’ll deal with for the “issue” comes to you and your church by evil men entering in among you, and from within i.e. from among yourselves men arise speaking perverse things. It is sheer arrogance for one to think they are so important that they do not have to deal with any issue that involves sound doctrine. Moreover when issues and apostasies are dealt – shut mouths, reprove severely when needed, NAME THEM when they persist in error and take souls with them, name the ones whose souls they overthrew and remember both of them as examples in bible classes and sermons; there is nothing new under the sun and a different face but the same error will show up again and again, sooner or later.

You Were Pagans Carried Away Unto Dumb Idols (I Cor. 12:2) Many are simply not aware of the various “other” designations for the Gentiles – such as “pagans,” “heathens,” “infidels” and “unbelievers.” This is especially true when some of these refer to idolaters. The world is divided into two divisions: Christians and the whole world that lies in the power of the evil one, Satan (I Jo. 5:19). Notice the emphasis given to one either being “in Christ” or “without” i.e. “outside” of Christ (Col. 4:5). The church is presented here as it is – a HOLY NATION (I Pet. 2:9) – the spiritual Israel, citizenship is in heaven – the church made up of both Jews and Gentiles. There is no praise here for “man” from a physical, ethnic or national background (cf. Rom. 2:28-29).

In The House of Public Issues Here is information on the NATIONAL CATHEDRAL in D.C. hosting same-sex nuptials. It presents a present example of the fallacy of human conventions making man made laws and binding them on their church. Such displays how corrupt churches really are! This includes a brief history of the Episcopal Church and it progression into gay marriage.

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. The NATIONS were divided after the Flood!

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 (Prov. 14:34; Malachi 1:4).

Aliens and National Ignorance: The concerns of space aliens and extraterrestrial activity in recent balloon intercepts, present A TOTALLY WRONG PERSPECTIVE OF THE EARTH, LIFE HERE, AND MANKIND HAVING BEEN GIVEN THE EARTH AS A DWELLING PLACE (Gen. 1:26; Ps. 115:16). There are no space aliens! That’s the title: Aliens and NATIONAL IGNORANCE.

WHILE NATIONS HAVE THE RIGHT OF SOVEREIGNTY (ROM 13), IT IS ULTIMATELY GOD WHO OVERSEES THE RISE AND FALL OF NATIONS.

• Read Dn. 2:21; 4:17,25, 34-35; 5:18-21.

• Christ is KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS (Rev 19:11-16).

THE FOCUS SHOULD BE ON EACH INDIVIDUAL, WITH THE GOSPEL AS THE POWER OF GOD UNTO SALVATION (MK. 16:15-16; ROM. 1:16), AND NOT A “NATION” THAT MIGHT HAVE TO FIGHT ALIENS FROM OUTER SPACE! FOR CRYING OUT LOUD!

•Mar 16:15 And He said to them, "Go into all the world and

preach the gospel to every creature.

•Mar 16:16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved;

but he who does not believe will be condemned.

HAVE “YOU” EARTHLING OBEYED ACTS 2:38? THERE IS NO SECOND CHANCE AFTER YOUR DEATH, OR SHOULD HE COME BEFORE YOU DIE.

When Political Views Commandeer the Truth of God’s Word “A Mistaken View ~ When Teaching God’s Word You Are Just Stating Your Political View (Parts One Through Four).” This brief series, parts one through four, appeared in the church’s newspaper articles.

“One should never become so politicized in their thinking that for them a rejection of a biblical truth is considered OK in view of their personal political stand.” The “NATURAL MAN” of the world i.e. the man as presented in I Cor. 1:26-27 (the wise according to the flesh, the mighty, powerful and capable, the noble or well born) being uninterested in God’s revelation sees it as foolishness. Several wrongful views are presented. As things are today another’s politicizing your belief in and statement of a truth in God’s Word in their mind is often, if they should agree with your statement, equal in their thinking both of you have equal “standing” before Christ. This is a dangerous assumption carried out I believe multiple times every day.

Why I Am Not A Nazarene This article written by B.J. Bronger explains, as one who at one time was in the Nazarene church, the injustices done to the Lord’s plan of salvation by the CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE. We invite you to read this carefully for many find themselves in either his or similar circumstances found in denominationalism.

How Can One Understand the Word of God? (A Brief Study of Scriptural Authority) 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. Here is a brief study on how to establish scriptural authority by using Statements, Commands, Examples, and NECESSARY INFERENCES found in the Word of God. Each person is expected to read and understand God’s Word, just the same as if someone gave them an important set of instruction dealing with their work, or health, to read for their benefit.

Memory #3 of 3 This is the third portion of a brief series on “Memory” (April, May and June 2016). This article’s emphasis is on not using memory to prevent spiritual danger and destruction, letting greed overpower remembering God’s presence in times past, using memory to correct one’s life and the necessity of being reminded to be ready for every good work. God’s people are to maintain good works for NECESSARY USES (to meet urgent needs), that they be not unfruitful (Titus 3:14). Israel’s Complaining / Murmuring towards Moses and Aaron, and thus towards God Himself, that they had been brought out into the wilderness to be killed by thirst and starvation led to the destruction of many (cf. Nu. 11:1 Taberah; 11:33-34 Kibrothhathtaava). Letting “greed” (lust) overpower remembering God’s presence in times past resulted in a great plague upon the people (Nu. 11:33-34).

Memory #1 Hopefully this will be the first of three articles. Memory is brought to light with such words as “remember,” “remind,” “forget” and “NEGLECT.” The antonym means to forget, and at times intentionally thus implying culpability. Those who want to remember the applicable lessons from God’s Word are the ones who are “doers of the word” (Ja.1:22). The one who deceives himself hears God’s word as it gives him the right view of himself -- but “immediately” i.e. at once, very soon upon departing from the word he forgets what he really is – his mind turns to what pleases himself once again. The proper use of memory is presented in the light of using it to repent, and using the past where brethren sought to corrupt or even destroy the congregation.

“Thank you for the strong words.” The title is also a quotation from a visitor. She said, “I want you to know it is good to hear strong words used. Back home we don’t get that.” The thing that bothers too many brethren today, and it sadly lacking because of that, is proper application to the brotherhood, the local church, other local churches, and individual lives. She made some good “application” herself – a wonderfully strong statement concerning a member who isn’t coming. She said they had a member who says she’s sick, but sets at home and watches that “dribble” from the fake T.V. evangelists on healing, and then when we admonish her we’re not loving enough and too hard.” Sound familiar? Has your church placed being patient to the point of BEING NEGLIGENT in church discipline above the Lord’s disciplinary commands as is so common among our churches? Does this saying fit? “At what point does the church stop being too patient and STOP NEGLECTING church discipline?”

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 Nehemiah and state publicly the sins of those who continue to COMPROMISE God's word (Nehemiah 13). This simple lesson shows why people COMPROMISE the Truth along with the attendant consequences for doing such.

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.” Great deceivers are using “love your NEIGHBOR” to put their own stamps of approval on iniquity! They teach the local church is accept and fellowship heterosexual couples living together in fornication (sin, Gal. 5:19), accept those in homosexual and lesbian relationships (sin, I Cor. 6:9, Rom. 1:26-27), as well as condone and fellowship adulterous marriages (Matt. 19:9).These deceivers are guilty of rejoicing in iniquity, not loving God, and being religiously injurious to all in their wicked deceptions! Their churches are full of iniquity and their members love to have it so (2 Tim. 3:1-5, 4:3).

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 can fall into their own snares and NETS they set for others; (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).

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. In the NEW TESTAMENT God has given us "all things" (not some or just part) that pertain to life and godliness through the knowledge of Christ. (2 Pet. 1:2-3).

The Head And Authority of the Church This is Lesson Two in our Series: "Fundamental Lessons on the Church." Lesson Two: "The Head And Authority of the Church." In this lesson you will learn about the church with Jesus Christ as the one and only head. The church has the responsibility to hold to, uphold, and proclaim the NEW TESTAMENT as Christ's Word and the authority He gave to the church. The church is not the authority. The revealed word is the authority Christ gave for the church to uphold and proclaim.

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. Christians believe the NEW TESTAMENT is God’s law whereby man will be judged (John 12:48). “Instruction” in the Word plainly states that fornication as described above is a work of the flesh that leads to eternal destruction if not repented of (I Cor. 6:9; Gal. 5:19-21).

Casting Down Eloquence & Sophistry Series (2 Cor. 10:4-5) This series is aimed at the eloquence and sophistry of false teachers. Modern teachers love to emphasize some of the teaching of Jesus while discounting the teaching of His apostles. This “discount” includes all prophets who wrote the New Testament. Their prejudice against the “whole” of the NEW TESTAMENT scriptures makes it easy to identify them. It is the Scriptures themselves that expose their unwillingness to accept the “whole” of the New Testament teaching as the revealed will of Christ. Why not take time to read the exposure of such false teachers in these newspaper articles.

Casting Down Eloquence & Sophistry Series (2 Cor. 10:4-5) Modern teachers, atheists, and mockers often portray God in the Old Testament as being ruthless and unloving. A common tactic is to present the idea that God in the Old Testament is different from God in the NEW TESTAMENT. Such seek to bypass the fact that the judgments of God brought upon the world, as recorded in the Old Testament, were indeed left as warnings for us today. People love the deception in being told that God today just isn’t like that (cf. Rom.16:17). But God will punish the wicked in hades and eternally in hell (cf. Lk.16:22-26; Matt. 10:28).

Casting Down Eloquence & Sophistry Series (2 Cor. 10:4-5) False teachers are getting away with things warned of in this series. In conclusion here are IMPORTANT ASPECTS OF JESUS’ TEACHING DURING HIS MINISTRY:

1. Jesus correctly explained the Law of Moses (cf. Matt. 12:12). A scribe understood and stated that Jesus had rightly explained the greatest commandments of the Law (cf. Mk. 12:28-34).

2. Christ exposed the empty “traditions” (man’s not God’s) of the Scribes, Pharisees and Sadducees – religious leaders of His day (cf. Matt.15:1-10; 22:23-33).

3. Some of His teachings contained teaching to be used under the NEW COVENANT that replaced the Old Mosaic Covenant (cf. Mk. 16:15-16; Matt. 18:15-18, 19:3-9; cp. Col. 2:14-17).

4. There is the necessity of identifying when the NEW COVENANT came into effect. Jesus spoke of the church as yet in the future when He said, “I will build My church…” (Matt. 16:18). In giving instruction on His Supper, the fruit of the vine is said to represent His blood of the New Testament (Matt. 26:28). His priesthood necessitated that the law changed from the Old to the NEW TESTAMENT (cf. Heb. 7:12). The apostles preached the New Testament on Pentecost as recorded in Acts 2.

5. No portion of His teaching denies that the judgments of God brought upon the world, as recorded in the Old Testament, were indeed left as warnings for us today! (See Lesson Four). People love the deception in being told that God today just isn’t like that (cf. Rom.16:17). But God will punish the wicked in Hades and eternally in Hell (cf. Lk.16:22-26; Matt. 10:28).

Loving Israel for the Wrong Reasons The history of Israel goes back to God’s promise of Christ through Abraham’s seed (Gen 12:1-3). It was through Christ, Abraham’s seed, that all nations (all men everywhere) would have the offer of eternal salvation (Rom 1:16-17; Gal 3:26-29). Read this and you will see the fulfillment and understand that THE NEW TESTAMENT is God’s will for all of mankind today. Here is a contrast of Israel under the OLD TESTAMENT for a definite period which has passed, and salvation for all men through the gospel of Christ as revealed in the NEW TESTAMENT. When you study the salvation of Jews or Gentiles (including Arabs) the New Testament points to their baptisms into Christ for the remission of their sins (Mk 16:15-16; Gal 3:26-29). Read this article and you will see the difference between contending for political and national interests, and contending for salvation offered through Christ for all men.

1. The name Israel applied to the nation that developed in Egypt.

2. That nation, Israel, was given the OLD COVENANT LAW for a definite period, which has ended, with a view to Christ being the end of the law (see Rom 10:4 “end”) --- the Old Covenant kept them together and brought them to Christ. THE NEW COVENANT is for all men today, both Jews and Gentiles.

3. Blindness of the Jews is seen in those who reject Christ and the NEW TESTAMENT.

4. ANY TRUE CHRISTIAN DESIRES THE SALVATION OF ALL MEN REGARDLESS OF RACE OR NATIONALITY.

5. The offer of salvation through the gospel of Christ is not antisemitic – both Jews and Gentiles are equal in Christ’s church.

6. The offer of salvation through the gospel of Christ does not favor Arabs or Gentiles over others – all are equal in Christ’s church.

7. WHEN YOU STUDY THE JEWS’ SALVATION > THE NEW TESTAMENT POINTS TO THEIR BAPTISMS.

8. WHEN YOU STUDY THE JEWS’ LEVITICAL PRIESTHOOD UNDER THE OLD TESTAMENT > THE NEW TESTAMENT TEACHES THE PRIESTHOOD CHANGED FOR THE JEWS TO CHRIST AS THE ETERNAL HIGH PRIEST.

9. WHEN YOU STUDY THE JEWS’ O.T. LAW > THE NEW TESTAMENT TEACHES IT WAS TAKEN OUT OF THE WAY HAVING BEEN NAILED TO THE CROSS.

10. WHEN YOU STUDY OLD COVENANT WORSHIP FOR JEWS > THE NEW TESTAMENT TEACHES IT “VANISHED,” AND THEY COULD BE GOD’S PEOPLE UNDER THE NEW COVENANT (JER. 31:31-34).

11. WHEN YOU STUDY THE JEWS’ TEMPLE IN JERUSALEM > THE NEW TESTAMENT TEACHES ITS DESTRUCTION BY GOD WHICH CAME IN AD 70.

12. WHEN YOU STUDY THE JEWS AS A NATION > THE NEW TESTAMENT CONFIRMS THEY ABUSED THE BLESSING OF BEING CHOSEN BY GOD – THEY LOVED THE IDOLS AND FALSE GODS OF THE NATIONS, BEING A STIFF-NECKED REBELLIOUS PEOPLE (CF. STEPHEN’S SPEECH TO FELLOW JEWS, ACTS 7; READ DE 9:6-7, 24).

13. WHEN YOU STUDY THE JEWS’ HUMAN TRADITIONS AS A NATION > THE NEW TESTAMENT TEACHES THEIR HUMAN TRADITIONS WERE “VAIN WORSHIP” (CF. MATT 15:3-9; MAR 7:5-9).

14. THAT GOD CHOSE ISRAEL THROUGH WHOM CHRIST CAME ACCORDING TO THE FLESH, AND THEN MOST JEWS REJECTED JESUS CHRIST WAS A GRIEF TO PAUL, HIMSELF A JEW.

15. PARTIAL BLINDNESS OF ISRAEL IS SEEN IN THEIR REJECTING THE NEW COVENANT, AND BECOMING ENEMIES OF THE TRUTH OF THE GOSPEL (ROM 11:25-32). PAUL (A JEW HIMSELF) IS TRUTHFUL AND IMPARTIAL IN STATING THIS. BUT THERE IS ALSO A REMINDER TO THE GENTILE CHRISTIANS THAT THEY MUST REMEMBER THEY WERE ONCE DISOBEDIENT TO GOD, AND SO THE HOPE REMAINS THAT MORE AMONG THE JEWS WILL BE CONVERTED TO CHRIST THROUGH THE GOSPEL, I.E., THE NEW COVENANT. IT IS THE NEW COVENANT THAT IS GIVEN TO BOTH JEWS AND GENTILES THAT IS SPOKEN OF HERE.

16. PAUL QUOTED ISAIAH’S TRUTHFUL AND HONEST STATEMENT TO FELLOW JEWS WHO IN UNBELIEF REJECTED THE PREACHING OF THE GOSPEL (ACTS 28:17-31).

17. JESUS WILL APPEAR “A SECOND TIME” TO AWARD SALVATION ON THE DAY OF JUDGMENT.

18. EVERY PERSON OF EVERY RACE INDIVIDUALLY WILL STAND BEFORE CHRIST ON THAT DAY.

19. CHRISTIANS ARE NOT TO BE IGNORANT ABOUT THAT DAY!

20. STUDY INTERNATIONAL POLITICS AND YOU ARE NOT STUDYING SALVATION IN CHRIST!

21. HE COMES IN THAT DAY TO BE GLORIFIED IN HIS SAINTS.

22. THE DAY OF THE LORD WILL COME AS A THIEF IN THE NIGHT.

23. WHEN CHRIST JUDGES “ALL” ON THAT DAY ANYONE NOT FOUND IN THE BOOK OF LIFE IS CAST INTO HELL.

24. WHO DO CHRISTIANS THANK GOD FOR WHO GIVES US THE VICTORY? GOD WHO GIVES US CHRIST.

25. STUDY THE NEW TESTAMENT AND THE ISRAEL OF GOD IN GAL 6:16 IS THE CHURCH OF CHRIST.

26. THE RECOGNIZED “JEW” RELIGIOUSLY BY GOD IS NOT IN PHYSICAL OUTWARD APPEARANCE, OR BY PHYSICAL CIRCUMCISION, BUT INWARDLY HAVING OBEYED THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST -- WHOSE PRAISE IS NOT FROM MAN BUT GOD.

Jesus Came to Fulfill the Law (Matt. 5:17-18) People are quick to quote these passages to justify using a combination of the Mosaic Law along with the NEW COVENANT. This is used for any number of things, but especially for items of worship that they particularly like that cannot be justified by the New Testament teaching concerning the church of Christ. The attraction of special clothing (cf. Ex. 28) for ministers and priests, along with the use of instruments, candles, incense, etc. would be examples. Demanding circumcision along with wanting to bind the Old Covenant upon the church is refuted by Paul as an example of seeking justification by the Law and falling from grace (Gal.5:1-4). Paul said the Jews blinded by the Law were holding to a ministry of death and condemnation (2 Cor. 3:4-16). But when they turned to Christ and His NEW COVENANT that blindness would cease (I Cor. 3:12-16).

Be Sure to Keep Christ at New Years! Professions of love for the “baby” Jesus at Christmas time are often nothing more than hypocrisy. Such are often followed within a very short period of time with drinking and revelry at NEW YEARS. Here is a description of what the drunkard brings upon himself.

Selected Newspaper Articles from 2016 These four newspaper articles include: (1) Surely Such Beautiful People (In this article “Beautiful people are just everywhere here!” People, and especially our youth, do not understand the vanity that is evil and destructive). (2) Surely Correct Thinking ~ Although It Does Not Begin With the Fear of the Lord (In this article “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” (Pr. 1:9) – “beginning” meaning the first step in acquiring and then applying God’s revealed word. This is not your own “I think” or “I believe.” Four important applications display what men are willing to do when they lack the fear of the Lord. (3) Surely Not Their Kind of Preacher ~ Hired to Protect the Ungodly (Based upon I Tim. 3:16-17 it is the members themselves who are responsible for maintaining such preachers; these men pleasers are standing in line to take the place of those who preach the truth and are dismissed or cast out for doing so. (4) Surely Displays Great Love for Jesus ~ Cancelling Church for Sunday Dec. 25 (Lk. 2:11 says “For you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” That’s right, all we have is “this day” --- thus the obvious flaw in saying that anyone today knows the exact day Jesus was born. Since no one knows then how can “cancelling” church figure in at all on “Christmas”? Put this with the command not to forsake assembling and you see that love of the Traditions of men, not God’s Word, is all important and mighty self-serving. Some might even be thinking why not for NEW YEAR’S DAY too.

Selected Newspaper Articles Selected NEWSPAPER articles: "Disclaimers for Fortunetellers," "Mothers of a Different Kind," "Alternative Lifestyles," "Fornication Kit."

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. Why not read these short truthful articles titled “Has Someone Pulled The Plug From Your Life?,” “Holding Back Truth To Be A Seeker Friendly Church,” “Among The Apostles There Was No Pope,” and “Scriptural Warnings Appropriate For Grad Night.”

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. Why not read these short truthful articles titled “Coming To Worship ~ A Spectator Sport!,” “King Solomon And Child Murder,” “An Old Fear And Shame ~ Easter,” “War Protesters.”

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!” ~ Much is lacking in worship today. This article presents the frivolous attitude manifested by both adults and young adults that fails to fulfill the Biblical duty of warning 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.

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: (1) “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. (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. (3) “God Knows When Men Conceal The Truth” presents a scriptural view of those who claim to preach God’s word while restraining their lips for covetousness sake. These help the ungodly and love those who hate the Lord! (4) “Justifying Self By Saying Church Responsibility Is Not Necessary” answers four popular self justifications offered for not studying and seeking a scriptural church.

Selected Newspaper Articles Dear reader the following bold headings are selected 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 first of four articles titled “I’m Mr. Positive!” bespeaks of the empty, vain, teaching and preaching done today by popular speakers who serve themselves and not the Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 16:17). Consider that the last three articles aim at giving concerned people some idea of what Jesus really did say. We encourage you to read each of scriptures referenced to understand your own accountability (Jo. 12:48; Matt. 7:21-27).

Selected Newspaper Articles Dear reader the following titles are selected NEWSPAPER articles that appeared in our local newspaper the Yuma Sun. Advertizing for many churches tends to follow the current trend for advertizing in general and has an emotional “pitch” to possibly interest the reader. 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 On Civil Government This is a series of NEWSPAPER Articles titled “Civil Government Out Of Control” (Numbers 1-6) listed elsewhere that ran in the Yuma Sun in 2009. Since I have put it into our newsletter format I am listing it again. There are six short article based upon activities in the life of the apostle Paul. These present where government officials either failed or succeeded in doing their work. Actually there is a great deal of information here about civil rulers, workers, and politicians dealing with such things as motives, consequences, civil harassment, rumors and lies, hatred, mob violence, intent to murder, greed and man pleasing – the desire and advantage for political figures as they work at pleasing others.

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.

Selected Newspaper Articles on Political Correctness You might enjoy reading these NEWSPAPER articles as they are grouped together: (1) Politics Does Not Make Evil to be Good. (2) What Presidents Do When They Promote Abortion and Gay Marriage. (3) When the Governing Powers Refuse to Listen. (4) Women Bishops And Gay Marriage Are Both Sinful.

Selected Newspaper Articles from 2016 These four NEWSPAPER articles include: (1) Surely Such Beautiful People (In this article “Beautiful people are just everywhere here!” People, and especially our youth, do not understand the vanity that is evil and destructive). (2) Surely Correct Thinking ~ Although It Does Not Begin With the Fear of the Lord (In this article “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” (Pr. 1:9) – “beginning” meaning the first step in acquiring and then applying God’s revealed word. This is not your own “I think” or “I believe.” Four important applications display what men are willing to do when they lack the fear of the Lord. (3) Surely Not Their Kind of Preacher ~ Hired to Protect the Ungodly (Based upon I Tim. 3:16-17 it is the members themselves who are responsible for maintaining such preachers; these men pleasers are standing in line to take the place of those who preach the truth and are dismissed or cast out for doing so. (4) Surely Displays Great Love for Jesus ~ Cancelling Church for Sunday Dec. 25 (Lk. 2:11 says “For you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” That’s right, all we have is “this day” --- thus the obvious flaw in saying that anyone today knows the exact day Jesus was born. Since no one knows then how can “cancelling” church figure in at all on “Christmas”? Put this with the command not to forsake assembling and you see that love of the Traditions of men, not God’s Word, is all important and mighty self-serving. Some might even be thinking why not for New Year’s Day too.

Selected Newspaper Articles from 2017 These four NEWSPAPER articles include: (1) Surely All the Men’s Fault ~ So Called “Forced Heterosexuality”; (2) Surely Empowerment and Courage ~ Abortion; (3) Surely the Ends of the World ~ But Don’t Quit Your Job!; (4) Surely Not the Time for Two Drinking Parties ~ Christmas & New Years.

Various Newspaper Articles from 2018 There are four NEWSPAPER articles selected from 2018: (1) Jezebel A Woman Politician ~ Surely Quality Skills, Empathy with Honor (2) Surely God Had No Place in the Creation ~ But If You Could Only Talk to Stephen Hawking Now! (3) Surely Very Beneficial ~ The “Virtues” of Vulgar Language (4) The “Y” Chromosome ~ Surely “Men” Disappear in less than 5 Million Years.

Various Newspaper Articles from 2018 #2 Here are three NEWSPAPER articles from 2018: (1) Surely Know What A Pharisee Is ~ When Charging Others As One! (2) Surely Friends of Jesus! Those Who Accuse Others of “Legalism” for Obeying Christ’s Commandments (3) Surely Farfetched ~ The Church Can’t Be About Religion Or It Is A Cult.

Newspaper Articles Series: “For the Greatly Exploited Generation Z” These NEWSPAPER articles identify spiritual exploitations of the “Z” generation (2019-2020). Beginning with the truthful statement that God’s Word will not exploit you the way political correctness does --- these present God’s wisdom and power that exists far beyond mankind’s own wisdom and power. You must believe in a Creator to learn to put your life into His perspective and purpose for mankind (Ps. 89:11; Eccl. 12:13). You may read about the various ways generations, actually, have been deceived and thus think and act contrary to God’s revealed Word.

The Real Sin In Sodom This article is a reply to a respondent who was delighted with the error that was presented in NEWS WEEK’S Dec. 15^ths feature article “Gay Marriage: Our Mutual Joy.” I wasn’t delighted and had something to say scripturally concerning those who justify the wicked as being an abomination to the Lord (cf. Prov. 17:15). The following presented ensued as he replied to what I had said. And I in turn to what he said. As I said it centered around the article on gay marriage. There is a great of deal scriptural information here concerning what Jesus and inspired writers said about the sin of homosexuality. There are descriptions of Sodom both from the Old and New Testaments.

News Week’s Blunder on the Bible & Gay Marriage NEWS WEEK’S Dec. 15^th issue’s cover has “Gay Marriage: Our Mutual Joy” as its top article. The author says: “Opponents of gay marriage often cite Scripture. But what the Bible teaches about love argues for the other side.” It is evident that the author didn’t know what she was talking about. These short newspaper articles expose a great deal of the error presented in this widely circulated article.

News Week’s Blunder on the Bible & Gay Marriage, #2 In this “The Truth In Print” publication for Feb. 2009 you will find mention of a Mr. Knapp who has taken issue with the church’s articles in our local newspaper titled “NEWS WEEK’S Biblical Blunder On The Bible & Gay Marriage.” Included is what he chose to say about us in the opinion column of our newspaper. He has accused our church of using selective scriptures, the effect of which he says is to marginalize and demonize gays and lesbians. There are certain things presented we’d like for others to note concerning his disapproval of our teaching the truth about gay sex. Mr. Knapp is illustrative of how confidence in the social scientific theories of the “present” can lead one. It is obvious as one reads his last paragraph that this confidence has led him to say the opposite of what the Scriptures really do say. For example compare what his last paragraph says with our fourth newspaper article, “News Week’s Biblical Blunder On The Bible & Gay Marriage #4.” The New Testament scriptures do not teach that those who practice gay sex are to be included in fellowship with members of the local church.

Unitarian / Universalists Having been criticized by a Unitarian / Universalist (See articles titled: “NEWS WEEK’S Biblical Blunder On The Bible & Gay Marriage”) for our series on Newsweek’s blunder --- this article states what Unitarians are all about. You will find that you don’t have to believe in God to be a part of their man made religion!

A Safe Deposit For My Treasures Do you really want to go to heaven? This article contrasts the physical setbacks besetting those who suffered during the fires of 2003 with the eternal setbacks of not heeding Jesus instruction in Matt. 6:19-20. Why not refresh your mind by reading about heaven as a safe deposit for your treasures? You can read and understand that Heaven is a place where there will be NO MORE death, sorrow, tears and crying, pain, curse or NIGHT - just eternal day (Rev. 21:1-4, 21:25-22:5).

Noah Got Drunk, But That’s Not Me! There is a look here at NOAH in failing as all righteous men will do. This also shows the foolishness of thinking too lightly of one’s sin. There is scripture on drinking and drunkenness, and application made directly to brethren who separate themselves from their brethren in order to seek their own sinful desires.

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" and they are first mentioned in Gen. 4:16 when Cain left Eden and dwelt in the land of NOD east of Eden. The reply shows how her claim doesn't fit with the scriptures in the Bible.

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 “Nostradamus said…,” “Armageddon has come,” “the Mark of the Beast.” When men ask, Why? or What is the future? then Christians know ...

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 and love (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. Without love one is NOTHING (I Cor. 13:1-3). 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?

Many and Few by Contrast It is better to have few than to have the human organizations our brethren have formed that intrude into the work God gave the local churches to do. God’s blessings come for the few as well as many who are willing to respect scriptural authority. Here are some applications as to why a church may be SMALL IN NUMBER.

The mark of the beast, 666, Rev. 13:16-17 A respondent has stated that people are going around preaching the NUMBER 666 from the book of Revelation about everything. He states that people are even looking for the "mark" on the foreheads of others and requests that something be said about this. The material puts the "mark" in the context (historical setting) where it belongs!

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