Eight Fundamental Truths About The Word of God

First, it is authored by the One True God! “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

Second, this world we live in was created by it! “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear” (Heb. 11:3; cf. Gen. 1:3, 6, 9, 11, 14, 20, 24, 26, 28, 29).

Third, it will make one “wise unto salvation”! “And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 3:15).

Fourth, it will cause one to believe! So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Rom. 10:17).

Fifth, it reveals the heart of man! “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Heb. 4:12).

Sixth, it will bring blessings! “...blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it” (Lk. 11:28).

Seventh, it will save the young and old from the evil one! “I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one” (1 Jn. 2:14).

Eighth, it is more important than physical food! “And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God” (Lk. 4:4; cf. Jn. 6:22-35, 48, 58).

Do you read, study, and apply God’s Word to yourself regularly? If you do, you won’t go wrong! If you don’t, you are on the wrong road – the road that leads to everlasting destruction (Matt. 7:13-14)! – tgmc 

The Kind of Church Some Need
By Johnie Edwards

I just thought of the kind of church some folks need. Take a look and see if you agree and know anyone like this:

1. Allows its members to come and go as they like: This church never mentions Hebrews 10:25 where we can read about “forsaking the assembling of yourselves together...” It lets its members know that they can come and go as they please. This church shows no concern about whether or not its members attend.

2. Encourages the members to put everything else ahead of the Church: If you make a list of priorities, the church goes at the bottom of the list. Oh, I know the Bible says: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God...” (Matthew 6:33).

3. Has appropriate sermons: The sermons preached in this church are about love, grace, funny stories that make one laugh, kid skits and drama, and news events. The preacher doesn’t always quote Scripture; and he says nothing about sin and hell. Who wants to hear that old stuff? The modesty taught in the New Testament was for those who lived back in the first century (1 Timothy 2:9).

4.  Allows social drinking: Oh, I don’t mean getting drunk! A church that understands that “a little wine is good for the stomach” is my kind of church (1 Timothy 5:23). Everyone knows that Jesus turned water into wine (John 2).

5. Knows that sports build character: A church that doesn’t know this is simply out of touch. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, you know. I know what Paul said about exercise, but remember, he didn’t have any kids (1 Timothy 4:7-8). A church should not expect my son/daughter to leave a Wednesday night game to attend Bible study. Children get enough studying at school!

6. Does not withdraw from unruly members: Oh, I know the apostle Paul said “withdraw from those who walk disorderly” (2 Thessalonians 3:6-15); but that just makes folks mad, and they may withdraw themselves from the church. After all, not many churches today are following this old command!

7. Quotes less scripture: People need a church that is fun to attend—one where they can hear funny stories, watch kids’ skits, and participate in book/movie reviews. Most church members do not want to hear so much Scripture; they want to leave with a fuzzy feeling.

This sounds like the kind of church for which many people are searching—my kind of church! What do you think? 

RECOMMEND THIS CHURCH TWICE EACH WEEK
By Greg Gwin

Those who study “church growth” tell us that our best opportunity for increase arises out of every member recommending their own congregation to people they know or with whom they have contact. Such recommendations should be brief, to-the-point statements that are designed to appeal to the specific individual. Here are some examples:

To a new family that has recently moved into your neighborhood: “It’s great to meet you. If you ever think about looking for a new church here in our area, I'd like to recommend the Church of Christ. We’ve got some good families there, and we’ve got great classes for the kids. We’d love to have you visit.”

To someone you work with who may be going through a difficult time: “I know it’s tough right now, but in times like this I’ve always gained a lot of strength from the people at church. Why don’t you come to church with me this Sunday?”

To someone you meet at the grocery who gives you an “opening” by something that is said: “I attend the Church of Christ, and I really love it there. If there’s ever a time when you’re looking for a church, I’d like to recommend this one.”

See how easy it is! You can do this! We ALL can do this! And, it should be emphasized that we’re all obligated to do this. Revelation 22:17 says: “... the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” 

Let’s get busy recommending this church – simply telling folks to “come. If each of us will make this recommendation twice each week, every one of us will have invited 100 people in a year. Just do it!!!