Month October 2024

The Power of the Tongue

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The way we speak to and about each other carries significant weight in shaping our relationships. Scripture offers guidance on this topic.

Speak Truthfully: The foundation of all godly communication is truth. Proverbs 12:22 tells us, “Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.” Truthfulness honors God and fosters trust between people. Ephesians 4:25 reinforces this, saying, “Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.” The bond between believers, and even in families or friendships, grows strongest when it is built on honesty.

Truth-telling, however, must go hand in hand with wisdom. We are not to speak everything on our minds recklessly but what is helpful and necessary. Some have excused their rudeness by saying, “I told the truth.” Proverbs 15:28 says, “The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.” Speaking truth without care can do harm, but truth delivered thoughtfully builds others up.

Assume the Best in Others: Too often, we are quick to judge motives, which leads to misunderstanding and division. We ought to give others the benefit of the doubt. Colossians 3:12-13 encourages, “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any.” Assuming the best about someone promotes unity, while assuming the worst can lead to resentment. Proverbs 18:13 reminds us, “He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.” Taking time to understand is a reflection of wisdom and humility.

Speak Lovingly: Speaking the truth without love can damage relationships. Ephesians 4:15 instructs us to be “speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.” When we speak lovingly, we are using our words to edify and encourage rather than tear down.

Proverbs 16:24 describes the power of loving words: “Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” The way we say something can have a profound impact. Loving speech heals, uplifts, and brings peace to those who hear it.

Speak Kindly: Kindness should be evident in the way we communicate. Colossians 4:6 says, “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” Graceful speech is kind, considerate, and thoughtful, seeking to bless others rather than cause harm.

Proverbs 15:1 underscores the power of kind words, noting, “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” When we speak kindly, we can defuse tension, ease conflict, and promote harmony. It is often through a gentle, kind word that we can turn situations around and make peace where there was previously strife.

The Bible clearly teaches that our speech matters. These principles, when applied, strengthen relationships and reflect our relationship in Christ. In a world where words are often used to divide, we have the opportunity to use ours to build others up, promote unity, and spread the love of God.

Agape,

Spencer

Spencer is an evangelist for the Franklin & Juniper St church of Christ in Borger Texas. We invite you to visit with us to learn about what God wants for our lives.

Duties of Saints, pt4. SERVE

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Living the Christian Life:

In Colossians 3:1-4:6, Paul encourages Christians to live in a way that reflects their new identity in Christ. He challenges us to seek things above, focusing on heavenly things while living responsibly here on earth. The principles laid out by Paul guide our daily actions as individuals and members of one another.

These verses remind us that living as Christians involves things we can do, you and I, to embody these teachings.

1) Submit. Submission is a key theme in the Christian life, and it touches various aspects of our relationships and responsibilities. Here are several areas where Paul tells us to SUBMIT To:

a) Spouses (Colossians 3:18-19; Ephesians 5:22; 1 Peter 3:1-7)

The first place where submission begins is in the home. Wives to submit to their husbands, while husbands are to love their wives and not be harsh with them. This mutual submission creates a loving and harmonious household, reflecting Christ’s relationship with the church (Ephesians 5:22-33). If we’re married, you and I are to build marriages that mirror this sacred love and respect.

b) Unity with One Another (Ephesians 5:21; 4:1-6)

Submission doesn’t stop in the home—it extends to the church. There is mutual submission among believers out of reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:21). Unity requires humility, patience, and bearing with one another in love (Ephesians 4:2). In a world where division often reigns, you and I can stand out as peacemakers, fostering unity and love in our relationships.

c) Children (Ephesians 6:1-2; Colossians 3:20; Matthew 15:4; Mark 7:10)

Children are instructed to obey their parents, honoring them as God has commanded (Ephesians 6:1-2; Colossians 3:20). Parents, on the other hand, should not provoke their children but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. As parents, grandparents, or caregivers, you and I have a responsibility to raise the next generation with wisdom, love, and guidance according to God’s word.

d) Masters (Ephesians 6:5; 1 Timothy 6:1; Titus 2:9; Colossians 3:22; 1 Peter 2:18)

In the workplace, Christians are to submit to their employers, working wholeheartedly as if serving the Lord (Colossians 3:22). This principle applies whether you are an employee or in a position of leadership. You and I are to treat those we work with or for with integrity and respect, always reflecting Christ in our actions.

e) In the Church (1 Peter 5:5; Hebrews 13:7, 17)

Within the church, submission to spiritual leaders is essential for maintaining order and spiritual growth. We are to respect and follow those who watch over our souls, submitting to their leadership as they guide us in our walk with Christ (Hebrews 13:7, 17). You and I can contribute to the health of the church by being humble, teachable, and respectful.

f) Territory (Romans 13:1-7)

Submission also extends to governing authorities. Paul reminds us that all authority is established by God, and as Christians, we are to be law-abiding citizens (Romans 13:1-7). Whether we agree with every decision or not, you and I are to respect authority, as long as it doesn’t conflict with God’s commands, knowing that our ultimate allegiance is to Christ.

2) Earn for Our Needs (Ephesians 4:28; 6:5; Colossians 3:22)

Work is a gift from God, and earning an honest living is part of our responsibilities as saints. Paul encourages believers to work hard, not just for themselves but so they can help those in need (Ephesians 4:28). You and I are to be diligent and faithful in our work, providing for our families and contributing to the well-being of others.

3) Relieve the Afflicted (1 Timothy 5:10; 1 Peter 4:9)

Hospitality and care for the afflicted are essential aspects of Christian love. Peter exhorts us to show hospitality without grumbling (1 Peter 4:9). Whether through financial support, emotional encouragement, or practical assistance, you and I can bring comfort to those who are suffering, offering a tangible expression of Christ’s love.

4) Visit the Widows and Orphans in Their Need (James 1:27)

True religion, according to James, is marked by care for the most vulnerable: widows and orphans. Visiting and helping them in their distress is a way to practice our faith in action (James 1:27). You and I can look for opportunities to serve those who are often overlooked, offering them hope and support in their times of need.

5) Edify the Saints (1 Timothy 1:4; Ephesians 4:12, 16, 29; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Romans 14:19, 15:2)

Finally, Christians are to build one another up. Whether through words of encouragement, teaching, or acts of service, our goal is to strengthen the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:12). You and I can help fellow believers grow in their faith and love for God.

Conclusion

In summary, Paul’s teaching in Colossians 3:1–4:6 provides a clear path for how you and I can live as Christians. By submitting in various relationships, working diligently, caring for the afflicted, and edifying the church, we embody the character of Christ and reflect His love to the world. These are practical actions we can take every day to live out our faith and bring glory to God.

Agape,

spencer

This is part 4 of a series of lessons on the Duties of Saints, pt1

Here is part 2 on the Duties of Saints.

What do you want me to do for you?

The Preacher 1 Comment

(Mark 10:51a)

Do you want what’s different from the bible? You Can’t. In Mark 10:1-12, the Pharisees challenge Jesus about divorce, hoping to trap Him into contradicting Moses’ law. Jesus responds by affirming the unchanging authority of God’s Word, pointing back to the original design of marriage at the beginning of creation (Genesis 2:24). This illustrates the point: you can’t want something different from what the Bible says because God’s Word is eternal and unchanging. People often desire the convenience of twisting scripture to fit modern preferences, but God’s truth stands firm regardless of societal trends. Psalm 119:89 says, “For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.” Galatians 1:8 warns, “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.” The Bible is not subject to personal modification or preference. Just like in Mark 10, any attempt to change or soften the Word for comfort or convenience fails, because God’s standards do not shift with the tide.

Do you want acceptance without sacrifice? You Can’t. When the rich young ruler approached Jesus in Mark 10:17-22, he wanted the assurance of eternal life without relinquishing his wealth. He desired acceptance into the Kingdom of God without the cost of giving up what held his heart. Jesus’ response is clear: it’s not possible. True discipleship requires sacrifice. We cannot hold on to worldly attachments and still fully follow Christ, as Luke 14:33 reminds us, “So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” Jesus didn’t just ask the rich man to part with his wealth; He asked for his full surrender. 1 Samuel 15:22 echoes this: “To obey is better than sacrifice.” There is no path to genuine acceptance by God without the willingness to sacrifice earthly treasures, desires, or comforts. Christ demands full allegiance and obedience, not half-hearted commitment.

Do you want notoriety with the Lord above your brethren? You Can’t. James and John sought glory and prestige above their fellow apostles in Mark 10:35-45. They asked for seats of honor beside Jesus in His Kingdom, not realizing that true greatness in God’s eyes comes through humble service, not self-exaltation. Jesus rebuked their request by explaining that greatness in the Kingdom of God is measured by serving others, not by claiming superior status (Mark 10:43). Philippians 2:3 teaches, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” Seeking prominence for oneself contradicts Christ’s example of humility. 1 Peter 5:6 instructs, “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.” Notoriety is not a competition among believers; it is an outgrowth of genuine servanthood.

We must take up our cross (sacrifice our life to Christ) to be worthy to follow Him. In Mark 10:21, Jesus told the rich young man, “Go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.” This call to take up the cross means more than just bearing hardship; it’s a call to die to oneself daily, surrendering our lives entirely to Christ. Jesus made it clear in Luke 9:23, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” Taking up our cross is not optional—it’s the only way to be worthy of Christ. Romans 6:6 reminds us, “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed.” To follow Jesus means we must sacrifice our desires, ambitions, and even our comfort for the sake of the gospel. It’s a life of surrender, where the only goal is to glorify God through obedience and faith.

Agape,

Spencer

This article is from a series of sermons on the Gospel of Mark. Click here for the list of available articles on the Gospel of Mark.