We need to know enough to be able to speak the SAME things.
Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the SAME thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the SAME mind and in the SAME judgment. (1Cor1:10)
Can you know too much about…
How to ASSEMBLE with the saints?
What does the bible say about what we do when we come together as a CHURCH?
1) we COMMUNE at the Lord’s table. 1Cor 11:17-34. Not a common meal.
2) we HEAR a message from the word. Acts 20:7.
3) we sing with UNDERSTANDING. 1Cor 14:15; Eph 5:19; Col 3:16. Singing is specified which eliminates all other friends of music.
4) we make REQUESTS known unto God. Phil 4:6; Acts 2:42
5) we CHEERFULLY CONTRIBUTE to the work of the church. Free will, as we purposed and prospered. 1Cor 16:1-2; 2Cor 9:1-7
6) we meet together in person with our HEARTS to PROVOKE one another to Love and good works. Heb 10:24-25
This is a lesson on AUTHORITY, about how to know what God wants.
Which can you add, change, or remove and still be speaking the SAME thing as Jesus, Peter, Philip, Paul & the rest of the NT?
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6)
Since Jesus is the only way to the Father, it stands to reason that we ought to know what He has said on the matter.
“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth” (Matt 28:18).
Since Jesus has all power (authority), it stands to reason that we ought to know what He has commanded.
“And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matt 7:23).
Since Jesus will reject those that practice iniquity (lawlessness), it stands to reason that we ought to know what He considers lawful.
We’ll only know these things when we READ His word.
The things we’ve seen so far about how to READ the bible are, 1) Rightly dividing the word, which means to handle it accurately. 2) Examine the bible carefully; Examine ourselves by it, and Examine the teaching of others with it. In this article we’ll notice that the bible contains the Commands of the Lord.
One of the ice-breakers I use to talk with others about the bible is this question; “How do we know what God wants?” Over and over again people answer by saying, “you have to be quiet and listen,” “pray and ask,” “If God opens a way for something or closes a door at something, that’s how you’ll know.” After listing several of these, they may sometimes say, “oh, and the Bible.”
Ask any Christian this question and they will immediately say, “The Bible, specifically the New Testament.” Christians know and understand that “holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” (1Pet 1:21b). Holy Spirit inspiration of God’s will was revealed to holy men, who then revealed it orally at the beginning, and then written for perpetuity. (1Cor 2:9-13; Joh 20:30-31; Eph 3:3-4; 2Tim 3:15-17). The New Testament is the will of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Here are 3 things to consider about the New Testament.
First, the New Testament writings ARE THE COMMANDMENTS of the Lord. “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 [emphasis added]” (1Cor 14:37). After you read this, note what Jesus said during His time on earth.
“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). These two verses together are very impactful, but consider what will happen on the last day. “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works” (Rev 20:12).
What Books you ask? It’s clear that one of the books will be the words of Christ. Then, on that day, Jesus will say to some, “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say” (Luke 6:46)? To those who have read His word, and done His will (Matt 7:24) shall hear these words, “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (Matt 25:34). The New Testament is the will of our Lord.
Second, before we can do His will, we must LOOK into His Law. James wrote, “But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed” (James 1:25). He then wrote in chapter two, “So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty” (2:12). James repeats what we’ve just learned, we shall be judged by the words, law of Christ. If we don’t know His will, we ought to LOOK into it.
Think about what King Josiah learned upon reading the will of God for His time. “And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the book of the law, that he rent his clothes. And the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Achbor the son of Michaiah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asahiah a servant of the king’s, saying, Go ye, enquire of the LORD for me, and for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words of this book that is found: for great is the wrath of the LORD that is kindled against us, because our fathers have not hearkened unto the words of this book, to do according unto all that which is written concerning us” (2Kings 22:11-13). The New Testament is the will of our Lord.
Lastly, we need to LET His word dwell in our hearts. This speaks to reading, and learning. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom” Colossians 3:16a). Note again what James wrote, “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetfulhearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed” (James 1:22-25) [emphasis added]. We need to read, understand, and apply it.
Peter, in his second letter to the Saints, repeatedly said that he wrote to “REMIND” them. To “put you always in remembrance of” (1:12), “putting you in remembrance” (1:13), “always in remembrance” (1:15), “by way of remembrance” (3:1). He was very direct about this point, “But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins” (2Pet 1:9).
O’ that we never FORGET the great things the Lord has done!!!
The New Testament is the will of our Lord. The things that are written ARE His commands. We ought to LOOK into His Law of Liberty. We must LET the word of Christ dwell in our hearts.
Agape,
Spencer
The Franklin & Juniper st church of Christ in Borger is very much involved in Bible reading and study. You’re invited to attend one of our services to hear the Gospel preached in plainness of speech easy to understand.
We need to know enough to be able to speak the SAME things.
Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the SAME thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the SAME mind and in the SAME judgment. (1Cor1:10)
Can you know too much about SALVATION? Are all churches teaching the SAME thing as The Bible? Are we teaching the SAME thing as Jesus.
What did Jesus say about SALVATION?
Matthew 7:24 KJV
Therefore whosoever HEARS these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
John 8:24 KJV
I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye BELIEVE not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.
Luke 13:3,5 KJV
I tell you, Nay: but, except ye REPENT, ye shall all likewise perish. [5] I tell you, Nay: but, except ye REPENT, ye shall all likewise perish.
Matthew 10:32-33 KJV
Whosoever therefore shall CONFESS me before men, him will I CONFESS also before my Father which is in heaven. [33] But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.
Mark 16:16 KJV
He that believeth and is BAPTIZED shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
It’s water baptism. Notice what the first Christian evangelists taught.
Acts 8:35-36 KJV
Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him JESUS. [36] And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain WATER: and the eunuch said, See, here is WATER; what doth hinder me to be BAPTIZED?
Baptism is a burial in water.
Colossians 2:12 KJV
BURIED with him in BAPTISM, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.
Matthew 28:20 KJV
Teaching them to OBSERVE ALL THINGS whatsoever I have COMMANDED you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Does your church teach the SAME as Jesus about how to be saved? Does it teach the SAME purpose?
Hear, Believe, Repent, Confess, water Baptism, & Faithfulness.
Which can you add, change, or remove and still be speaking the SAME thing as Jesus, Peter, Philip, Paul & the rest of the NT?
For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
Luke 6:46 KJV
And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?
Matthew 7:21 KJV
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.
How to be a DOER…
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
Be DILIGENT to search the word.
OBEY the commands of Christ.
rise EARLY to obey. EXPEDITE His will.
REPENT & RETURN when you stumble, He is faithful.
Agape,
Spencer
The Franklin & Juniper st church of Christ in Borger is very much involved in Bible reading and study. You’re invited to attend one of our services to hear the Gospel preached in plainness of speech easy to understand.
1) RIGHTLY divide the word. (Handle it accurately)
2) EXAMINE. Examine to learn, Examine Ourselves, Examine Other’s teaching, Examine to Know the Love of God.
NOW FOR PART 3: ALL AUTHORITY of Christ is in the Bible
3) AUTHORITY of Christ is found in the Bible. People claim that God speaks to them personal, & miraculously. This is a contradiction to Scripture.
God speaks to us by His Son, and the commands of Christ are in the New Testament.
Hebrews 1:1-2 KJV
God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, [2] Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;
And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. (Matt 28:18)
1 Corinthians 14:37 KJV
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.
Colossians 3:17 KJV
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.
Matthew 7:28-29 KJV
And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: [29] For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
Do you want to know what God wants? Read the Bible. Attend a service of the church of Christ. Check out what is being taught with your copy of the Bible.
If someone claims they know the will of God but cannot show it to you in book, chapter, and verse then run away.
Agape,
spencer
The Franklin & Juniper st church of Christ in Borger is very much involved in Bible reading and study. You’re invited to attend one of our services to hear the Gospel preached in plainness of speech easy to understand.
“Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.” (1Peter 1:12)
“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Rom 10:17)
The New Testament has 260 chapters, 7959 verses, and 181,253 words. For the whole Bible the total is 1189 chapters, 31,173 verses, and 773,746 words.
The size of the Bible intimidates some and is one reason people don’t read it. Others have said they have trouble understanding it. This is talking about application to their lives and not the ability to know the words, because the Bible is written on a high school level.
Two of the excuses given as to why we’re not reading it is size (difficulty) and application. The third, boredom, is related to the first two.
The Bible is written for all; from the PHD to the GED. We can read and we can understand it. “Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)” (Eph 3:4).
Last week’s tip was for us to RIGHTLY divide the Bible (2Tim 2:15). This meant we need to correctly handle it, and know its parts. This first tip helps to solve the problem of the size and relevance. Today we look at another tip.
Tip #2 of the 4 Tips on how to READ the Bible. We need to make careful EXAMINATION of the bible. There are 4 things we need to EXAMINE as we look into this great book; The Language (defining words as they were originally used), Ourselves whether we’re doers of the word, what Others are teaching, and to Know the love of the Lord Jesus Christ.
First, we need to EXAMINE the text to Learn what is the will of the Lord. “Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is” (Eph 5:17). The bible informs us about sin, and educates us about how to avoid the penalty of sin through Christ. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom 6:23).
The Old Testament is for our Learning, “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” (Rom 15:4). In The New Testament we Learn the will of the Lord for all mankind today. “Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith” (Rom 16:25-26).
The bible is written for understanding, and contains the commandments of the Lord. “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). Therefore, after we know what the text says, the next step is to…
EXAMINE OURSELVES to see if we’re doing what the Lord commands. “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say” (Luke 6:46)?
Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ wrote, “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves” (2Cor 13:5a). The bible is to be read so we can learn how to live in a way that is pleasing to God and to be with Him in heaven. When we recognize that God has revealed to us the solution to death, then we instantly realize its relevance.
The theme of the whole bible is about Jesus the Christ. “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?” (John 5:39, 46-47). From Genesis to Revelation is about salvation in Christ Jesus. Therefore, we read to learn how to be saved from our sins. “And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls” (Acts 2:40-41).
Therefore, we read to examine ourselves to know how to be saved. Since we can examine our own selves when we read, it also means that we can examine OTHER’S TEACHING to know if it’s true. When Paul preached to those in Berea, they examined the bible to see if what was being taught was accurate. “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” (Acts 17:11).
There are some denominations that say the average person cannot read the bible themselves and understand it. They claim that only their special clergy can tell you what it means. The Bible says the exact opposite. In addition to what Paul wrote in Ephesians 3, John wrote, “And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name” (John 20:30-31). Not only can we know what the text means, we can know if we’re in compliance, and we can know if what OTHERS are saying is true.
Lastly, we examine the bible to KNOW the depth of Christ’s love for us. “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen” (2Peter 3:18). Paul’s prayer for the saints in Ephesus, and for us, “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (Eph 3:14-19).
In conclusion, we read to EXAMINE the Learn the will of the Lord.
We read to EXAMINE Ourselves.
We read to EXAMINE what Others are teaching, and
we read to EXAMINE so we may Know the breadth, and length, and depth, and height of God’s Love in Christ.
Agape,
Spencer
The Franklin & Juniper st church of Christ in Borger is very much involved in Bible reading and study. You’re invited to attend one of our services to hear the Gospel preached in plainness of speech easy to understand.
Recently, someone asked me why I got into preaching. I gave an answer that had two main motivations. Afterward, I got to thinking about why we preach at all. From this study I came up with 4 more reasons why we preach.
Why do we PREACH?
HEARING requires preaching. Rom 10:14) 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? Hearing is the first step in God’s plan to save mankind. There will be no “zapping” of the Holy Spirit to save us. We must Seek Him through a study of His word.
CHRIST commanded preaching. Mark 16:15) And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Before He ascended into heaven, Christ commanded that the Gospel be preached. Who am I to go against a command of Christ?
Luke 6:46) And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?
ANGELS are looking into it. 1Pet 1:10-2) Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: 11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. 12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into. The gospel that was preached by the Apostles, then recorded for us in the written word, was searched out by Angels. That’s amazing to me. Yet we often don’t read it, much less to search through it diligently.
EVERYONE I know needs it. Matt 28:19; Col 1:27-28) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: 28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Every person needs Christ and to obey His gospel. The gospel is about the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. (cf 2Thess 1:7-8; 2Pet 3:9)
I’m REQUIRED to preach. 1Cor 9:16) For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! Now it gets a little more personal. Since I’ve become an evangelist, one who’s main work is to preach the gospel, woe unto me if I don’t. This is what I do, spread the gospel. I’ve become that guy who needs to talk about Jesus anytime I’m in the presence of another person.
PERSONAL REASONS Luke 16:19-31) And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; 23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. The last reason, and maybe the most emotional reason, is that those that I love the most are dying OUTSIDE of Christ. They have not all obeyed the Gospel and are in jeopardy of their souls. All of us need to take this seriously. In the story of the Rich man & Lazarus, the Rich man became very evangelistic upon discovery of his fate. This motivates me to be evangelistic in life!!
This is why I PREACH the Gospel.
Agape,
Spencer
Spencer is a gospel preacher for the church of Christ at Franklin & Juniper in Borger, Texas.
“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Rom 10:17)
One of the chief complaints I hear about reading the Bible is that people find it hard to read.
I’ve wondered why? Is it because of the genealogies, the narrative of the divided kingdom, or difficult concepts? Perhaps it’s a combination of all of these or some other. Perhaps, people are just intimidated by its size and don’t know where to begin?
The average word count for adult fiction is between 70,000 to 120,000 words. Whereas the Old Testament has 929 chapters, 33,214 verses, and 503,493 words.
The New Testament has 260 chapters, 7959 verses, and 181,253 words. For the whole Bible the total is 1189 chapters, 31,173 verses, and 773,746 words.
Maybe it’s a combination of factors. I believe that the main reason folks don’t read the Bible is that they don’t see any relevance for their lives. One man told me, “Sometimes I just real-life help, and not the Bible.” It’s funny that I was giving him real life help at the time along with encouragement to read the bible to avoid future trouble. It’s not either or, it’s both.
The Bible has direct relevance to everyone for the here and now, but especially in the there and then of eternity. Peter writes about the relevant word.
“According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue” (2Pet 1:3). God’s word contains advice on LIFE, the earthly application, and GODLINESS, the spiritual application. Paul reminded Timothy that the “holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2Tim 3:15-17). The Bible has relevance!
To those that are still intimidated about reading the Bible, I ask you; Has anyone ever shown you how to READ the Bible? You may be better equipped if you knew 4 simple things about how to READ the Bible.
4 Tips on how to READ the Bible.
First, you need to RIGHTLY DIVIDE the word. “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2Tim 2:15). To “rightly divide” means to handle it accurately and correctly. Besides knowing that there’s an Old and New Testament, one needs to know what that means for application.
Handling the word accurately one needs to know that we are under the law of Christ, the New Testament, and are no longer under the law of Moses, the Old Testament. Neither are we a law to ourselves. “In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away” (Heb 8:13). The Apostle John wrote, “Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son” (2John 1:9)
While we are under the New Testament that in no way tells us to ignore the Old. The Apostle Paul, in writing about the Old Testament said this, “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” (Rom 15:4).
The Old Testament is for our learning about sin, sacrifice, and a future Messiah (Jesus). The New Testament tells us the Messiah has arrived. “Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator” (Galatians 3:19).
If you’re just getting started in Reading the Bible, allow me to recommend that you begin in the New Testament. Here is a breakdown…
The GOSPELS. Matthew, Mark, Luke, John. These are the books about the life of the Messiah who is being predicted and foreshadowed in the Old Testament.
I recommend you Read LUKE first.
ACTS. This book is written through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit by the same author of the Gospel of Luke. It covers the beginning of the church of Christ that Jesus promised to build (Matt 16:18). This book is the textbook on how to become a Christian.
I recommend you read ACTS next after the Gospel of LUKE.
The rest of the New Testament is written to Christians, who are also called Saints. These are letters written to Christians about being faithful. They also contain warnings about false teachers, and the possibility of falling.
The letters of the Apostle PAUL. Romans, 1&2Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1&2Thessalonians, 1&2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon. These letters are addressed to specific local congregations or individual evangelists. They have application for us today.
The GENERAL letters. Hebrews, James, 1&2Peter, 1,2&3John, Jude. These are letters by various authors written to Christians in general. A few are addressed to individuals. The contents are still very much applicable.
The REVELATION. This oft abused book is full of figurative language. It has a message relevant for us today, but much of it is historic. Having a strong understanding of the Old Testament will help you understand the figurative language in this book.
Next week we’ll look at another tip on how to READ the Bible.
Agape,
Spencer
The Franklin & Juniper st church of Christ in Borger is very much involved in Bible reading and study. You’re invited to attend one of our services to hear the Gospel preached in plainness of speech easy to understand.
“Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.” (1Cor 15:1-2)
In part one we noted that those that are SAVED go out SPREADING the Gospel. “Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word” (Acts 8:4). Their changed behavior is just one of the ways they Spread the tidings round (cf. 1Pet 3:1-6).
They also ASSEMBLE with the Saints in person on the first day of the week to worship. “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25; cf. 1Cor 11:17-34; 16:1-2; Acts 2:42).
In part two we will notice 3 more things the SAVED do.
In the beginning of the church, the Saints gave generously to aid the needy Saints. “Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, And laid them down at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need” (Acts 4:34-35; cf. 11:29; 1Cor 16:1-2).
The SAVED are very generous. They help needy Saints* (individually or through the local church; 1Tim 5:8-10; Matt 25:36), and they, from their own personal treasure, help those outside of the church among their family, friends, and neighbors (cf. Gal 6:10; Eph 4:28). *the funds collected in the local church (1Cor 16:1-2) are limited to Saints only for Making Saints, Teaching Saints, and Helping Saints.
The saved also spend time in self-EXAMINATION. “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates” (2Cor 13:5)? Another way of saying this is we JUDGE ourselves. “For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged” (1Cor 11:31). When we are proactive about looking within ourselves first, we will have no worry about those looking at us from outside.
We do this EXAMINATION of ourselves through studying the New Testament. “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” (2Tim 3:16-17). It’s this way we find assurance of our salvation (cf 1John 2:12-14). If there is any doubt about ourselves, we will learn from the Bible what to change.
John gave the purpose of the written word, which requires us to read it, and examine ourselves with it to know whether we’re following it. “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not” (1John 2:1).
Emphasis mine seb.
Lastly (in our list), the saved are DILIGENT to present themselves approved into God. “Be DILIGENT to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2Tim 2:15). The word “diligent” (study in the KJV) means that the Saints endeavor, or labor to be well pleasing to God by keeping His commands.
Jesus said, “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock” (Matt 7:24-25).
Jesus did the same. “And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him” (John 8:29). He gave us an example in Himself of the thing He commands. At the Judgment, Jesus will ask about our faithfulness, “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say” (Luke 6:46)?
One of the areas that DILIGENCE shows up is when we discover an area of error from which we must repent (see EXAMINATION in the previous point). “For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What DILIGENCE it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter” (2Cor 7:11).
Back to John’s writing in 1John 2, we have hope in repentance because we have an Advocate in Christ. “And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked” (1John 2:2-6).
Becoming one of the SAVED in hope is the beginning of our eternal life. It’s no wonder that the saved Spread the word, Assemble with other Saints, Visit the needs of the poor, Examine themselves, and are Diligent to show themselves approved to God. The Saints are saved by grace, and they exemplify salvation by living a life of Grace.
“Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.” (1Cor 15:1-2)
Whereas mainstream denominations teach that salvation is the end of the matter through their false doctrine of Once Saved Always Saved, the Bible teaches that it’s the beginning of our New Life in Christ.
“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. 16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? 17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.” (Rom 6:3,15-16).
Those that have OBEYED the gospel are among the saved. They have…
Heard the word. (Matt 7:24)
Believed that Jesus is the Christ. (John 8:24)
Repented of their sins. (Luke 13:3)
Confessed before men that Jesus is the Christ. (Matt 10:32)
Baptized in water for the washing away of their sins. (Acts 2:38)
And they begin their new life of faithfulness. (Matt 28:20)
Now that we’ve obeyed the Gospel, what do we do next? While there may be some details an individual must do in their new life as it deals with the fruits of repentance, this article will address 5 general actions every Christian must do all the days of their life in Christ.
It’s well known that one of the first things that new converts do is they go out SPREADING the gospel. “Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word” (Acts 8:4). The gospel is the good news and it is how they were SAVED and they want to tell their loved ones about this Good News. “[1] Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; [2] By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. [3] For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; [4] And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
They change their behavior, and they change the way they talk to the point that those most familiar with them recognize a dramatic change. “For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries; Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you” (1Peter 4:3-4). Some of their friends and family won’t like it, but they’ve been converted and they’re determined to remain faithful to the One that saved them. (Mat 10:22; 24:13; Jas 1:12; Rev 2:10)
Another one of the major changes the newly converted SAVED makes is that they ASSEMBLE with the saints on Sunday (and usually mid-week for bible study). “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is ; but exhorting one another : and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25).
“And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight” (Acts 20:7). They ASSEMBLE together IN PERSON (1Cor 11:17-34) to worship, and to fellowship in the work of the church. “Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come” (1 Corinthians 16:2).
They ASSEMBLE together to learn of Him, and pray through Him who saved them; “And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers (Acts 2:42).
From these verses (Acts 2:42; 20:7; 1Cor 11:17-34; 16:1-2; Eph 5:19; Col 3:16; Heb 10:24-25), the SAVED will ASSEMBLE with the church in person to do these 5 things.
They will have COMMUNION in the observation of the Lord’s Supper, proclaiming the Lord’s death till He comes. (1Cor 11:17-34).
They will HEAR a message from God’s word that was once for all delivered to the saints through the Apostles, who spoke and wrote them for us today. (Acts 2:42; John 16:13; 20:30-31; 1Cor 2:9-13; Eph 3:1-4; 4:11-12; Jude 3).
They will sing with UNDERSTANDING to one another, “teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” (1Cor 14:15; Eph 5:19; Col 3:16).
They will make REQUESTS to God in Prayer for one another. They will pray for boldness to spread the gospel (Acts 4:29). They will pray for one another (Phil 4:6). They will pray giving thanks to God (1Thess 5:17-18). They will pray and watching in anticipation of the Lord’s return (Rom 12:12; Eph 6:18; Col 4:2; 1Pet 4:7).
They will CONTRIBUTE to the work of the local church through the giving of their means which is true biblical fellowship. (Acts 2:42; 1Cor 16:1-2; 2Cor 8-9; Phil 1:5, 4:14-15).
They will provoke one another’s HEART to love and good works. (Heb 10:24-25). This is accomplished in person through their songs, their prayers, the teaching, the Lord’s supper and their contributions.
These are the first two of the five things the SAVED do. Next article will be 3 more things the saved do.
Agape,
Spencer
You’re invited to visit with us and check out one of the assemblies at the Franklin and Juniper St church of Christ.
Borger church of Christ @ Franklin & Juniper 