Category Religious Error

Evidence for our Faith: I Ain’t ‘fraid of no Ghosts

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Comfort in Christ: I aint ‘fraid of no Ghosts. The Ghost of Jacob Marley vs. the Truth of Luke 16:19-31

Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” paints a vivid picture of Jacob Marley’s ghost returning from the dead to warn Ebenezer Scrooge of his selfish ways, hoping to spare him a grim afterlife. Marley’s clanking chains and desperate plea grip our imaginations, but how does this fictional tale stack up against the truth of God’s Word in Luke 16:19-31, the story of Lazarus and the rich man? The Bible offers a different, more comforting reality for believers: Neither the faithful nor the lost return as ghosts.

In “A Christmas Carol”, Marley’s ghost is a restless spirit, burdened by chains forged from his greed and indifference in life. He returns to haunt Scrooge, warning him to change his ways to avoid eternal torment. The story suggests the dead can cross back to the living (or never cross over to the realm of the dead), intervening to deliver messages of repentance or hope. This makes for a compelling plot, stirring Scrooge to transform, but it leans on a cultural idea of ghosts lingering to settle unfinished business. Marley’s return implies the afterlife allows such spectral visits, with the dead actively influencing the living. This concept has enriched Hollywood with movies like “Ghost” and “The sixth sense.”

Contrast this with Luke 16:19-31, where Jesus tells of Lazarus, a poor man, and a rich man who die. Lazarus rests in peace at Abraham’s side, while the rich man suffers in torment. The rich man begs Abraham to send Lazarus back to warn his brothers, hoping to save them from his fate. Abraham says, “They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them” (Luke 16:29). When the rich man insists a return from the dead would convince them, Abraham replies, “If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead” (Luke 16:31). Unlike Marley, Lazarus doesn’t haunt the earth (nor does the rich man); he’s at rest, and the rich man’s plea for a ghostly messenger is denied. God’s Word, not supernatural visits, is sufficient for guidance. Ironically, a man named Lazarus did come back from the dead, “But the chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus also to death; Because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus” (John 12:10-11). So also did ANOTHER come back from the dead and it’s HIS WORD that either warns or haunts us today. “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day” (John 12:48). The message today is the same; if we hear not Christ, neither will we be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

Marley’s story fuels the idea that the dead roam to fix past wrongs, reflecting a human longing for second chances or closure. But this clashes with Scripture’s truth: the faithful, like Lazarus, are immediately in comfort, not wandering as spirits. Hebrews 9:27 states, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment,” with no provision for ghostly returns. For believers, this is a warm comfort; the faithful in Christ aren’t trapped or restless but safe with God.

Dickens’ tale captivates, but it’s fiction. Luke 16:19-31 grounds us in truth: God’s Word guides the living, and the faithful find eternal rest, not a ghostly mission.

agape

Sources:

  • Holy Bible KJV.
  • Dickens, Charles. “A Christmas Carol” (1843).

Final Thought: Marley’s ghost makes a great story, but God’s Word assures us there are no ghosts haunting the earth. I aint ‘fraid of no Ghosts.

Beware of False Teacher: 4 Lessons from Colossians 2

The Preacher 1 Comment

In Colossians 2, Paul issues a powerful warning to believers: “Stop letting people disqualify you” (Colossians 2:18). He urges the church to stand firm against deceptive influences that threaten to lead them astray from the truth of Christ. Paul identifies four types of false teachers, each with distinct tactics that remain relevant today. By understanding these dangers, we can guard our faith against those who distort the gospel.

1. Enticing Speech (Colossians 2:4-7)

False teachers often wield persuasive language to deceive. Paul warns against those who use “enticing words” to sway believers (Colossians 2:4). This tactic echoes Romans 16:18, where smooth talk and flattery manipulate the unsuspecting, and Ephesians 4:14, which describes cunning words that toss believers like waves. In our digital age, TikTok influencers, online preachers, and charismatic personalities can charm audiences with polished rhetoric, much like Satan’s subtle deception in Genesis 3 and Matthew 4. These voices may sound convincing, promising quick spiritual fixes or worldly success, but they often lead away from Christ’s sufficiency. Believers must root themselves in the truth of Scripture, as Paul encourages in Colossians 2:6-7, to discern and resist such deception.

2. Traditions of Men and the World (Colossians 2:8-10)

Another group of false teachers promotes human traditions and worldly philosophies over Christ’s authority. Paul cautions against being captivated by “philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition” (Colossians 2:8). Jesus confronted similar issues in Matthew 15:2, where religious leaders prioritized their traditions over God’s commands. Today, this manifests in appeals to “the way we’ve always done it” or the approval of experts, organizations, or governments. Philosophies like those Paul encountered in Acts 17 (stoicism, epicureanism, or modern ideologies) can subtly infiltrate the church. These traditions and ideas may seem appealing, but they lack the fullness of Christ, who is “the head of all rule and authority” (Colossians 2:10). Believers must test every teaching against the gospel, rejecting what elevates human wisdom over divine truth.

3. Judgments About the Old Law (Colossians 2:16-17)

Paul also warns against those who judge believers based on adherence to the Old Testament law, such as dietary rules or festivals (Colossians 2:16). Romans 14:2-3 and Galatians 4:10 highlight the danger of imposing outdated regulations, while Hebrews 8:13 declares the old covenant “obsolete.” False teachers may pressure Christians to follow Old Testament practices, claiming they are essential for righteousness (see Acts 15). Yet, Paul emphasizes that these are mere “shadows” of Christ, the true substance (Colossians 2:17). Some modern churches continue to impose the Law of Moses upon people. Why return to the shadows when the true Light has come into the world?

4. Puffed-Up Wisdom and Will Worship (Colossians 2:18-23)

The final type of false teacher Paul warns against is those who promote self-made spirituality and “puffed-up” wisdom (Colossians 2:18). These individuals boast of esoteric knowledge or mystical experiences, such as worshipping angels or embracing strange beliefs like sun gods or witchcraft. Paul describes such practices as “self-imposed worship” and “false humility” (Colossians 2:18, 23), which appear spiritual but lack true substance. Romans 6:3-6 and Ephesians 2:15 emphasize that believers are freed from such elemental principles through Christ’s death and resurrection. Paul warns against turning to weak and worthless spiritual systems. Today, this might look like New Age mysticism, occult practices, or prideful claims of exclusive spiritual insight. These teachings inflate human ego rather than exalting Christ, who alone is sufficient (Colossians 2:10). Paul urges believers to reject such distractions and cling to the gospel’s simplicity.

Guarding Against Deception

The common thread among these false teachers is their attempt to disqualify believers by shifting focus from Christ’s all-sufficient work. Whether through persuasive speech, human traditions, Old Testament practices, or puffed-up mysticism, they undermine the gospel’s power. Colossians 2 reminds us that Christ is the fullness of God, in whom all wisdom and knowledge reside (Colossians 2:3, 9-10). Believers are complete in Him, needing no additional rituals or philosophies to earn God’s favor.

In our modern context, these warnings are strikingly relevant. Social media amplifies enticing voices, from influencers peddling self-help spirituality to charismatic leaders pushing personal or mystical agendas. Cultural traditions (like prioritizing societal norms or “expert” consensus over biblical truth) can subtly erode faith. The Law of Moses persists in churches that impose Old Testament rules, while puffed-up wisdom appears in trendy spiritual fads that promise enlightenment apart from Christ.

To avoid being disqualified, believers must remain rooted in Christ (Colossians 2:6-7). This means immersing ourselves in Scripture and testing every teaching against God’s Word. Assembling with other believers provides accountability, helping us stay anchored in truth. Prayer is also vital, as we seek God’s wisdom in matters of truth.

Paul’s exhortation in Colossians 2 is a reminder for vigilance. False teachers will always arise, but we are not defenseless. By holding fast to Christ as our head, we can stand firm against enticing words, worldly traditions, Old Testament judgments, and prideful spirituality. Let us walk in the freedom and fullness of Christ, rejecting anything that seeks to disqualify us from the truth of His gospel.

agape

spencer

Evidence for our Faith: Free Will

The Preacher 1 Comment

Let’s talk about this Calvinist idea of predestination. Basically, that God pulls every string, deciding who’s in and who’s out, with free will just a side note because God’s Sovereignty demands it. Sounds tidy, right? But the Bible keeps pushing back, shouting from the rooftops that we’ve got real choices to make. It’s not some robotic rerun; it’s a dynamic story where God hands us the reins and says, “Your move.”

God repeatedly tells individuals to make choices, implying free will. In Joshua 24:15, Joshua exhorts the Israelites, “Choose this day whom you will serve,” presenting a clear decision between serving God or idols. This command assumes the ability to choose freely, not a predetermined outcome. Similarly, Deuteronomy 30:19 declares, “I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life.” The imperative to “choose” underscores human responsibility to respond to God’s call, incompatible with a view where every decision is divinely dictated.

In the New Testament, Jesus’ invitations affirm free will. Matthew 11:28 says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” This open invite requires a voluntary response, suggesting individuals can accept or reject it. Likewise, John 7:17 states, “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” Jesus emphasizes choice as central to faith, countering the idea that God irresistibly determines belief.

Calvinists often cite Romans 9:16-18, which highlights God’s sovereignty in showing mercy, to support predestination. However, Paul’s broader argument in Romans emphasizes human responsibility. Romans 10:9 declares, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart… you will be saved.” (Paul will continue on in the text pointing to baptism & faith). The conditional “if” implies that salvation hinges on personal choice, not divine coercion. Furthermore, 2 Peter 3:9 reveals God’s desire that “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance,” suggesting universal opportunity for salvation through free response, not selective predetermination.

Ephesians 1:4-5, another Calvinist cornerstone, states God chose believers “before the foundation of the world.” Yet, this should be understood corporately; God predestining the church as a body for salvation, while individuals freely choose to obey the Gospel and are added to the church through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9; Acts 2:38,41,47). This harmonizes with passages like Revelation 3:20, where Jesus says, “I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in.” The imagery of opening the door underscores human agency in responding to divine initiative.

Moreover, Calvinism’s strict determinism raises concerns about God’s character. If God ordains all actions, including sin, it conflicts with James 1:13, which states, “God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone.” Free will allows humans to bear responsibility for sin, preserving God’s holiness and justice. Neither the devil nor God made us do it. Scripture consistently portrays God as inviting, not compelling, human response. Scripture paints God as the ultimate pursuer, not puppet-master. Free will aligns with a God who desires genuine relationship over robotic obedience.

agape

spencer

Let’s talk Legalism

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LEGALISM

ILLEGAL-ISM

PERVERSION-ISM

Do not ADD to God’s Word.

The principles governing the handling of God’s Word can be framed through three pairs of terms: add (legalism), diminish (Illegal-ism), and distort (Perversion-ism).

“Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.” (Deuteronomy 4:2)

“Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” (Proverbs 30:6)

Add (Legalism) To add to God’s Word, known as legalism, involves imposing human rules or traditions as divine mandates, distorting Scripture’s intent (Deuteronomy 4:2, Proverbs 30:6). Legalism burdens believers with extra-biblical requirements, as seen in the Pharisees’ elevation of oral traditions, which Jesus rebuked (Mark 7:8-13). This practice fosters self-righteousness, shifting focus from God’s grace to man-made standards.

Legalism risks idolatry by prioritizing human additions over divine authority, creating confusion and division. Believers must discern between God’s commands and cultural preferences, ensuring worship remains rooted in Scripture’s sufficiency. Adding to God’s Word undermines its purity, leading to a faith that exalts human effort over divine truth. The antidote is humility, trusting Scripture’s completeness without supplementation. By avoiding legalism, believers honor God’s Word as the sole guide, fostering genuine faith free from the weight of unnecessary rules. Doing what God commands by faith is never legalism.

Diminish (Illegal-ism) To diminish God’s Word, termed Illegal-ism, involves selectively ignoring or downplaying Scripture to suit personal or cultural preferences (Deuteronomy 4:2, Revelation 22:19). Illegal-ism manifests when believers dismiss challenging teachings, such as those on baptism, to avoid obedience. This practice dilutes faith, creating a superficial spirituality that lacks trust in God. Scripture declares all its contents inspired and profitable (2 Timothy 3:16), demanding adherence to its entirety. Illegal-ism risks spiritual malnourishment, as believers miss God’s full counsel, and opens the door to moral relativism, where truth bends to human desires. Unlike legalism’s excess, Illegal-ism subtracts from divine revelation, equally undermining its authority. Faithfulness requires embracing both comforting and convicting passages, trusting God’s wisdom. By rejecting Illegal-ism, believers uphold the whole counsel of God (acts 20:27), ensuring a balanced faith that honors God’s perfect Word without selective omission.

Distort (Perversion-ism) To distort God’s Word, I call Perversion-ism, means twisting or misrepresenting its intended meaning to align with human agendas, cultural trends, or personal biases (Galatians 1:7, 2 Peter 3:16). “…in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.” Perversion-ism occurs when Scripture is reinterpreted to justify sin or compromise, as when Israel blended idolatry with worship (1 Kings 12:28-33). Unlike legalism’s additions or illegal-ism’s subtractions, Perversion-ism corrupts the text’s essence, altering its truth. This distortion undermines God’s authority, leading believers astray into false teachings or worldly conformity. Combatting Perversion-ism requires discernment to preserve Scripture’s intended message and courage to resist pressures to conform. It’s a subtle yet grave error, as it masquerades as faithfulness while perverting divine truth. By rejecting perversion-ism, believers stay aligned with God’s unchanging Word, ensuring obedience reflects His heart. This principle completes the framework: legalism adds, illegal-ism diminishes, and Perversion-ism distorts, guiding believers to honor Scripture faithfully.

AGAPE

SPENCER

any OTHER gospel? Galatians 1:6-9

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“6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:
7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.
8 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.
9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.” (Galatians 1:6-9)

The Uncompromising Gospel: A Warning Against Deviation

The Apostle Paul’s words in Galatians 1:8 are a thunderous declaration of the exclusivity and purity of the gospel: “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.” This verse is not merely a caution but a divine boundary, safeguarding the truth of Christ’s gospel against distortion. Paul’s warning underscores the danger of deviating from the apostolic teaching, structure, and practice of the church as revealed in Scripture. Any alteration, whether in organization, doctrine, hierarchy, mission, or worship, risks leading souls astray. Let us explore this verse through the lens of biblical fidelity, examining why deviations are perilous and why Paul’s response is so severe.

No Other Centralized Organization Beyond the Local Church
Scripture establishes the local church as the sole earthly organization for God’s people, with Christ as the head and heaven as its headquarters (1 Corinthians 11:3). The New Testament knows no centralized authority—such as denominations, synods, or councils—beyond the autonomous local congregation. Each church, under the oversight of its elders, answers directly to Christ, who reigns from heaven. Introducing hierarchical structures or external governing bodies usurps Christ’s authority and distorts the simplicity of His design. Paul’s warning in Galatians 1:8 condemns such innovations as a departure from the gospel, for they shift allegiance from Christ to human institutions.

No Other Doctrine of Christ
The gospel is singular and unchangeable, rooted in the teachings of Christ and His apostles. Second John 9 warns, “Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God.” To preach “another gospel” is to introduce teachings foreign to the New Testament—whether adding human traditions, altering the plan of salvation, or diluting the truth with cultural compromises. The doctrine of Christ encompasses His deity, His sacrifice, His resurrection, and His commands for obedience (e.g., faith, repentance, baptism, and perseverance). Any deviation risks severing fellowship with God, making Paul’s curse a necessary defense of eternal truth.

No Other Hierarchy Beyond Elders, Deacons, and Saints
The New Testament prescribes a simple leadership structure for the church: elders (overseers), deacons, and saints (Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3:1-10). Elders shepherd the flock, deacons serve practical needs, and all members are saints, called to holiness. No additional offices—such as popes, cardinals, or regional bishops—are authorized. Introducing such hierarchies elevates human authority above Scripture and undermines the priesthood of all believers. Paul’s anathema in Galatians 1:8 applies to those who impose unbiblical structures, as they distort the gospel’s call to humility and submission to Christ alone.

No Other Work Beyond Making, Teaching, and Helping Saints
The mission of the church is clear: make disciples, teach them, and provide limited benevolence to saints in need (Matthew 28:18-20). The church is not a social club, political organization, or community activity center. Its work is spiritual—evangelizing the lost, edifying believers, and assisting struggling Christians (e.g., widows, as in 1 Timothy 5:16). Romans 16:16 identifies congregations as “churches of Christ,” not entertainment hubs or welfare agencies. When churches prioritize secular goals over spiritual ones, they preach “another gospel” by redefining the church’s purpose, incurring Paul’s curse.

No Other Worship Practices
True worship is regulated by Scripture, limited to specific acts that honor God and edify the church. Acts 2:42, Ephesians 5:19, Colossians 3:16, and 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 outline these practices: partaking in Communion, hearing biblical preaching, singing understandable vocal songs, praying for God’s help, contributing financially to the church’s work, and encouraging one another to love and good deeds. Adding instrumental music, theatrical performances, or other innovations introduces “strange fire” into worship, akin to Nadab and Abihu’s unauthorized offering (Leviticus 10:1-2). Such practices deviate from the gospel’s pattern, inviting the condemnation of Galatians 1:8.

Why Was Paul So Harsh?
Paul’s pronouncement—“let him be accursed”—is jarring, but its severity reflects the stakes involved. The Greek word for “accursed” (anathema) denotes something devoted to destruction, cut off from God. Paul’s harshness stems from the eternal consequences of a corrupted gospel. The true gospel saves souls (Romans 1:16); a false gospel damns them. By invoking this curse, Paul emphasizes that no one—not even an apostle or an angel—has the authority to alter the message delivered once for all (Jude 3). His zeal mirrors Christ’s cleansing of the temple (John 2:17), protecting the purity of God’s truth from human tampering.

The Galatian churches were being swayed by Judaizers, who added circumcision and Mosaic law to the gospel (Galatians 1:6-7). This distortion threatened to enslave believers and nullify Christ’s sacrifice (Galatians 5:4). Paul’s curse is not vindictive but protective, urging believers to cling to the unaltered gospel. For modern readers, this serves as a sobering reminder: deviations in organization, doctrine, hierarchy, mission, or worship are not mere preferences but assaults on the truth that saves.

Galatians 1:8 is a blaring trumpet call to preserve the gospel in its pristine form. The church must remain a local, autonomous body under Christ’s headship, teaching only His doctrine, led by elders and deacons, focused on making and nurturing saints, and worshipping according to Scripture’s pattern. Any deviation risks preaching “another gospel,” leading souls to ruin. Paul’s harsh curse underscores the gravity of this truth: the gospel is not ours to modify. Let us heed his warning, holding fast to the faith delivered to the saints, ensuring that our churches reflect Christ’s design and our worship glorifies Him alone.

agape

A Plea to Our Catholic Friends

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A Passionate Plea to My Catholic Friends: Turn to the True Gospel

MY DEAR CATHOLIC FRIENDS, I come to you with a heart overflowing with love and urgency, pleading with you to hear the truth about the dangers of the Catholic faith. As your friend, I cannot stay silent when I see you entangled in a system that strays from the pure gospel of Christ. With Scripture as our guide, here are five critical warnings, praying they will open your eyes to the truth and lead you to the freedom found in Jesus alone.

FIRST, Jesus Himself warned us in Matthew 23:9, “Call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.” Yet the Catholic Church exalts the Pope, calling him “Holy Father” or “Papa,” a title reserved for God alone. This is no minor mistake—it elevates a man to a position that belongs only to our Heavenly Father. Paul referenced himself “as a father” but never took on the title as “Holy Father.” He often used humbling language and pleaded with people not to bow down to him. “Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:” (Acts 14:15). I implore you to reject this practice and honor God alone as your Father.

SECOND, the organization of the Catholic Church, with its hierarchy of popes, cardinals, and priests, contradicts the biblical model for the church. In 1 Timothy 3:1-10, Paul outlines the qualifications for elders and deacons—humble, local leaders who serve the local body of Christ, not a global institution with supreme rulers. The Catholic structure, centered in the Vatican, adds layers of human authority that Scripture never endorses. The largest organization of the Lord’s church on earth is the local church with autonomy from any other. Please, compare this to God’s Word and see the difference for yourselves!

THIRD, the Catholic religion preaches a perverted gospel, which Paul condemns in Galatians 1:6-10. The Catholic Church distorts the biblical gospel by adding human inventions like infant baptism, the granting of indulgences, an infallible Pope, and purgatory, which obscure the truth of salvation. Scripture teaches that salvation comes through faith in Christ, expressed in obedience to His commands, such as believing and being baptized, as Jesus declared in Mark 16:16: “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved.” In Acts 19:1-5, Paul taught the Ephesians to believe and be baptized, and they demonstrated repentance by burning their magic books, showing fruits worthy of their faith. While Ephesians 2:8-9 affirms salvation is by grace through faith, not by works of human merit, this faith is active and obedient, not a mere mental assent. By contrast, Catholicism’s reliance on sacraments, human mediators to forgive sins, and man-made doctrines perverts the gospel’s simplicity. Paul warns, “If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed!” My friends, this is a matter of eternal life—reject these false teachings and embrace the true gospel of Christ’s grace and obedient faith!

FOURTH, the Catholic Church elevates men above what is proper, violating 1 Corinthians 4:6, which warns us “not to think of men above that which is written.” The veneration of Mary, the canonization of saints, and the authority given to priests and popes place mere humans on pedestals that belong to God alone. Mary was a humble servant, not a co-redeemer; saints are all believers, not an elite class; and no man can stand between you and Christ as your mediator (1 Timothy 2:5). I plead with you to humble yourselves before God and reject these man-made traditions!

FINALLY, the Catholic Church promotes false signs and a misunderstanding of saints, contradicting 1 Corinthians 1:2 and 13:8-11. In 1 Corinthians 1:2, Paul calls all Christians saints, not just those canonized by the Church. The Catholic obsession with miracles, apparitions, and relics often borders on idolatry, and 1 Corinthians 13:8-11 tells us that miraculous signs were temporary, meant to confirm the gospel in the early church, not to be sought after today. Turn away from these deceptive signs and embrace the sufficiency of Christ and His Word!

MY FRIENDS, I know these words may be hard to hear, but they come from a heart that loves you and longs for you to know the freedom of the true gospel. The traditions of Catholicism may feel comforting, but they are a trap, leading you away from the simplicity and purity of Christ. I beg you, search the Scriptures for yourselves, test what I’ve said, and turn to Jesus alone for salvation. He is enough! May God open your eyes and draw you to His truth. With all my love, I pray for you.

—Anon

If I met the Pope

Calling on the name of the Lord: What is it really?

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Calling on the name of the Lord:

Prayer or obedience?

Acts 22:16 (KJV) states:

“And now why tarriest thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”

This verse records Ananias’ instructions to Saul (later Paul) regarding his conversion. To understand what it means to “call on the name of the Lord,” we must look at how the Bible defines and uses this phrase.

1. Calling on the Name of the Lord Involves Obedience

Acts 22:16 ties “calling on the name of the Lord” directly to baptism, which is the moment when Saul’s sins were washed away. This aligns with Jesus’ own words in Mark 16:16:

“He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.”

Calling on the name of the Lord, then, is not merely a verbal plea but involves obedient action. This is further clarified by Romans 10:13-14:

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?”

Paul, writing later, shows that calling on the Lord’s name requires hearing the gospel, believing, and responding in obedience.

2. Calling on the Name of the Lord Is Not Just Prayer

Some assume that calling on the Lord’s name is merely saying a prayer for salvation, but Scripture does not support this idea. Consider Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:21:

“Not every one 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.”

Merely addressing Jesus as Lord does not save—doing His will does. This is consistent with Acts 22:16, where Paul had already been praying (Acts 9:11), yet he still needed to be baptized to wash away his sins.

3. Biblical Examples of Calling on the Name of the Lord

The phrase “call on the name of the Lord” is used throughout Scripture in connection with worship and obedience.

• Genesis 4:26 – “Then began men to call upon the name of the LORD.” This refers to worship and devotion to God.

• Joel 2:32 (quoted in Acts 2:21) – “Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered.” This was fulfilled in Acts 2, where Peter preached that repentance and baptism in Jesus’ name were necessary for salvation (Acts 2:38).

In Acts 2, the people called upon the Lord by obeying Peter’s command to repent and be baptized. This directly parallels Acts 22:16, where Paul was instructed to do the same.

So what now?

To “call on the name of the Lord” is to appeal to Him for salvation by faithful obedience to His commands. Acts 22:16 shows that Saul (Paul) did this when he was baptized, at which point his sins were washed away. This is consistent with how the phrase is used throughout the Bible—faith in action, not merely words.

Spencer

Franklin & Juniper St

church of Christ

Borger, Tx

the Way of the Lord

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The story of the man of God in 1Kings 13:1-26 is one of the Bible’s most sobering narratives about obedience. This account teaches timeless lessons about the seriousness of following God’s Word without compromise. Let us examine these lessons in light of Scripture.

God gave the man of God specific instructions (1Kings 13:9): not to eat, drink, or return by the same way. These commands were obvious, straightforward, and easy to understand. God’s Word consistently provides clear guidance for those who seek it. “For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off. It is not in heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it? Neither is it beyond the sea, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it? But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it.” (Deut 30:11-14).

In the example of the flood story, Noah’s adherence to God’s precise instructions for building the ark (Genesis 6:14-22) saved his family from the flood. Ignoring or altering God’s commands would have led to disaster.

The man of God told Jeroboam that there would be no variation to God’s command (v8-10). “And the man of God said unto the king, If thou wilt give me half thine house, I will not go in with thee, neither will I eat bread nor drink water in this place.” Galatians 1:8-9 warns that even an angel preaching a different gospel is accursed. Nadab and Abihu’s offering of “strange fire” resulted in their immediate death (Leviticus 10:1-2). Their unauthorized act highlights the danger of altering God’s instructions.

No matter how sincere or convincing, error cannot produce righteousness. The old prophet’s lie (v18-19) did not excuse the man of God’s disobedience. King Saul’s partial obedience when sparing Amalekite spoils led to his rejection by God (1Samuel 15:22-23). Obedience requires following God’s commands completely.

The man of God believed the old prophet’s lie, and it led to his death. Sincerity alone cannot excuse disobedience to God’s truth. 2Thessalonians 2:10-12 teaches that those who reject the truth and believe lies will be condemned. “In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:”

The man of God’s failure to obey all of God’s instructions cost him his life. Every command of God is significant and deserves our attention. Luke 16:10 emphasizes that faithfulness in small matters reflects overall faithfulness. Uzzah’s touching the Ark of the Covenant (2 Samuel 6:6-7) highlights that even seemingly minor acts of disobedience are significant to God.

The account of the man of God from Judah serves as a solemn reminder: God’s way is clear, unchanging, and demands our full obedience. We must respect His commands, rejecting lies and half-truths. By adhering to His Word, we honor Him and secure our eternal reward. Believing lies or compromising His commands leads to spiritual ruin. Let us resolve to honor God by faithfully following His Word in every aspect of our lives.

Agape,
Spencer

Hear Him

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In a world filled with a myriad of voices, opinions, and influences, it can be challenging to discern the truth. As Christians, we are to hear and follow the voice of Jesus above all others. The Bible provides the clear words of Jesus and how we should prioritize hearing Him over other voices that compete for our attention. Let’s explore why it’s essential to hear Jesus and how we can overcome the distractions that often lead us away from His teachings.

Listening to Self.
In our modern culture, self-reliance and personal wisdom are often exalted. We’re told to “trust our gut” and “follow our hearts.” However, the Bible warns against leaning on our own understanding. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

    Imagine a ship’s captain in the middle of the ocean who ignores his navigational charts and instruments, relying solely on his instincts. Despite his confidence, he quickly becomes lost, unable to find his way through the vast and treacherous waters. In the same way, when we rely solely on our own understanding and desires, we can easily lose our way spiritually.

    Our hearts can be deceptive, leading us into paths that seem right but ultimately end in destruction. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it” (Jeremiah 17:9)? Instead of placing our trust in ourselves, we are urged to submit to God and trust in His wisdom. When we choose to hear Jesus, we are placing our confidence in the One who knows all, sees all, and loves us all. By aligning our thoughts with His teachings, we find guidance and direction that are far beyond our limited human understanding.

    Listening to Relationships Like Family & Friends.
    Family and friends often have a significant influence on our lives. While these relationships are important, they must not take precedence over our relationship with Christ. In Matthew 10:37, Jesus makes a bold statement: “Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.”

      This scripture isn’t a call to neglect our loved ones but rather a reminder to keep Jesus as our primary focus. When we elevate the opinions, traditions, and desires of others above the teachings of Christ, we risk compromising our faith. When we prioritize the voices of our loved ones over God’s Word, we become confused and unfocused in our walk with Christ

      Our love for Jesus should surpass all other affections, ensuring that His voice is the loudest in our lives. By hearing Jesus first, we can love and serve our families better, rooted in the truth of the Gospel.

      Listening to Authority Figures Without Verification.
      We live in a world where authority figures—be they religious leaders, politicians, or cultural icons—can significantly shape our beliefs. However, it’s crucial to remember that no human authority is infallible. Acts 17:11 praises the Bereans for their diligence in verifying Paul’s teachings: “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”

        This passage encourages us to be discerning listeners. We should respect authority but also verify their words against the ultimate authority—the Word of God. Hearing Jesus requires us to examine everything through the lens of Scripture, ensuring that we remain grounded in truth (see 1John 4:1; 1Thess 5:21).

        Listening to Evil Spirits, Tarot Cards, Mediums, Psychics, and Astrology.
        In a quest for guidance and answers, some people turn to supernatural sources like tarot cards, mediums, psychics, and astrology. However, the Bible explicitly warns against such practices. Isaiah 8:19-20 says, “And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”

          Imagine a traveler, seeking guidance, consults a broken compass, believing it will lead them to their destination. Instead, it leads them further into danger. When we turn to tarot cards, psychics, or astrology, we are like that traveler, misguided and led astray. These sources cannot truly communicate with us or guide us because they are not from God.

          These practices are dangerous because they open the door to deception and spiritual harm. Instead of seeking answers from these sources, we are called to seek God directly. Jesus is the ultimate source of truth, and when we hear Him, we receive the guidance and wisdom that leads to life.

          Hearing Jesus.
          Amidst all these competing voices, God’s command is clear: we must hear Jesus. In Matthew 17:5, during the Transfiguration, God the Father declares, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him!” This directive emphasizes the authority and importance of Jesus’ teachings. When we listen to Jesus, we are hearing the voice of God Himself.

            Jesus affirms this in John 14:6, where He states, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” By hearing and following Jesus, we find the true path to salvation and eternal life. His voice leads us to the Father, guiding us through the complexities of life with divine wisdom and love. We hear Jesus through the words that have been recorded for us in the New Testament. “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day” (John 12:48; cf. John 20:30-31).

            Hearing Jesus above all others is not just a command; it is a necessity for every believer. By prioritizing His voice, we can navigate the challenges of life with clarity, purpose, and peace. Let us commit to tuning our ears to His teachings, allowing His words to shape our hearts and guide our steps.

            “If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord”

            (1Corinthians 14:37).

            Agape,
            spencer

            Illustrating Colossians 3:17.

            The Preacher 1 Comment

            Doing All in the NAME of the Lord.

            “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” (Col 3:17)

            This verse encapsulates the essence of living a life fully devoted to Christ. It means more than just offering lip service or superficial honor to God; it demands genuine obedience to His commands in every aspect of our lives. To fully understand this, let us explore scriptural examples where individuals desired to honor God but failed to keep His commandments, thus illustrating the true meaning of doing all in the name of the Lord.

            Nadab & Abihu:

            A Cautionary Tale. Leviticus 10:1-2 provides a stark example of what happens when individuals seek to honor God without adhering to His explicit instructions. Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, offered “strange fire before the Lord, which he commanded them not.” Despite their likely intentions to honor God, their offering was contrary to His command, and as a result, fire came out from the Lord and consumed them. This incident underscores the critical importance of obedience. Honoring God is not just about good intentions; it requires strict adherence to His directives.

            Saul’s Amalekite Error.

            Another poignant example is King Saul’s disobedience in 1 Samuel 15. God commanded Saul to utterly destroy the Amalekites and all their possessions. Instead, Saul spared King Agag and kept the best of the livestock, justifying his actions by claiming that the animals were preserved for sacrifice to the Lord (1Samuel 15:15). However, Saul’s partial obedience was deemed rebellion. Samuel rebuked him, stating, “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams” (1Samuel 15:22). Saul’s failure highlights that honoring God involves complete obedience to His commands, not selective adherence.

            Well Meaning Uzzah.

            In 2 Samuel 6, we read about Uzzah, who, in a well-meaning effort to honor God, reached out to steady the Ark of the Covenant when the oxen stumbled. Despite his intentions, he violated God’s command that no one should touch the Ark (Numbers 4:15). As a result, Uzzah was struck dead by God (2Samuel 6:7). This account demonstrates that good intentions are not enough when they lead to disobedience. Honoring God requires respecting and following His specific instructions even under extreme circumstance.

            The Errors of the Pharisees.

            The Pharisees in the New Testament provide a further illustration of misplaced honor. They meticulously followed traditions and outward rituals, believing they were honoring God. However, Jesus criticized them for neglecting the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). Their focus on external observance rather than heartfelt obedience and adherence to God’s true commands showed that they were not truly honoring God in their actions.

            Jesus Himself addressed the importance of true worship in Matthew 15:8-9, quoting Isaiah: “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” Here, Jesus condemns those who appear to honor God outwardly but fail to adhere to His commands, substituting human traditions for divine instructions. True worship, according to Jesus, is rooted in obedience to God’s word.

            Applying Colossians 3:17 Today.

            For believers today, Colossians 3:17 is a call to full obedience. It challenges us to ensure that every word and deed aligns with God’s will as revealed in Scripture. It is not enough to perform acts of worship or service with good intentions if those acts are not grounded in obedience to God’s commands.

            For instance, when it comes to worship practices, evangelism, or daily living, our actions must be rooted in biblical directives. Doing everything in the name of the Lord means we act under His authority and guidance, ensuring our lives reflect His teachings and commands.

            Colossians 3:17 reminds us that honoring God involves more than mere intention or lip service. It requires a heart and life fully committed to obeying His will. True honor to God is found in faithful obedience to His word. Let us strive to do all in the name of the Lord, giving thanks to God and living in full submission to His divine will.

            Agape,

            Spencer

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

            Here is part 4 on the Duties of Saints.