Category Christian Living

Lest we DRIFT away, Heb 2:1-3

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Avoiding Spiritual DRIFT

“Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things that were heard, lest haply we drift away from them. For if the word spoken through angels proved stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; how shall we escape, if we neglect so great a salvation?” (Heb 2:1-3a ASV)

In the swiftly changing currents of life, it is all too easy to drift away from the secure anchor of hope, “which we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and stedfast and entering into that which is within the veil” (Heb 6:19).

Let us explore five guiding principles from the book of Hebrews that can help us avoid spiritual drift and ensure our steadfastness in the faith.

DILIGENCE.

The first one is found in Hebrews 6:11, “And we desire that each one of you may show the same diligence unto the fulness of hope even to the end.”

Think of diligence as the steady hand guiding the helm of a ship through treacherous waters. It is not enough to start well; we must persist, with our eyes fixed on the horizon of God’s promises.

Hebrews 4:11 exhorts us, “Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.” The necessity of constant effort to avoid spiritual shipwreck is a recurring theme (Hebrews 10:22; 12:1). Are we laboring earnestly, or merely drifting along?

READ & STUDY.

Reading and studying the Bible is the second way we will be able to remain on course, avoiding drift. The writer reminds us, “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword” (Heb 4:12). To avoid drift we must become skilled in the word. Hebrews 5:12-6:8 reveals the peril of spiritual immaturity and the dire consequences of neglecting the deeper teachings of Christ. Is our Bible a well-worn map or an unused artifact?

IMITATE THE FAITHFUL.

Another aid in avoiding drift is imitation which calls us to follow the examples of those who have walked the path of faith before us. Hebrews 6:12 instructs us to be “followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” We should emulate the faithful who have demonstrated unwavering trust in God. Consider the heroes of faith outlined in Hebrews 11. Their lives serve as beacons, illuminating the way for us to follow. By imitating their faith and perseverance, we reinforce our commitment to Christ. Whose shipping lane are we following today? (1Cor 11:1; 3John 11)

FEAR GOD.

A healthy reverence for God is the fourth in our efforts to maintain our spiritual course. Hebrews 4:1 warns, “Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.” Godly fear keeps us vigilant. It reminds us of the gravity of our salvation and the importance of living in a manner worthy of our calling. Does our reverence for God inspire vigilance or apathy?

TAKE HEED.

Finally, we ought to take heed. Taking heed requires self-awareness and caution. Hebrews 3:12 cautions, “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.” The vigilance of the watchman who stands in the crow’s nest of the ship is akin to the spiritual alertness we must maintain to remain on course. By taking heed, we guard against the drift caused by doubt and sin. Are we watchful or wandering?

Let us heed the wisdom of Hebrews and apply these principles diligently. Through our earnest efforts we anchor our souls firmly in Christ, avoiding the perilous drift that leads away from so great a salvation.

Agape,

Spencer

Joseph: the man God chose to raise His Son.

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The Man God chose to Raise His Son.

Joseph’s life and actions, as depicted in the Gospels, offer an example of virtue and obedience, qualities that emphasize his critical role in the life of Jesus.

Described in the Gospel of Matthew as a “just man” (Matthew 1:19), Joseph’s character is first revealed through his merciful reaction to Mary’s unexpected pregnancy. Engaged to Mary, he discovers she is pregnant before they have come together, and knowing the child is not his, he faces a societal and personal crossroad. He chooses a path of kindness, intending to spare Mary from possible humiliation or harm, which alone sets a significant tone for his character.

Later, He is visited by an angel in a dream, instructing him to not fear taking Mary as his wife because the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:20). His response to this divine intervention highlights another of his virtues: obedience. Matthew 1:24-25 tells us that Joseph did as the angel of the Lord commanded; he took Mary as his wife and named the child Jesus. This act of faith and submission to God’s will shows him as a man deeply committed to following God’s direction without hesitation.

Later, he and Mary bring Jesus to the temple to present Him to the Lord as prescribed in the Law of Moses (Luke 2:22-24), and they make the annual pilgrimage to Jerusalem for Passover, demonstrating his commitment to his faith and his role as a spiritual guide to his family (Luke 2:41-43).

Joseph’s profession as a carpenter, mentioned in Matthew 13:55, underscores his role as a provider who earns a living for his family. Moreover, the offering described in Luke 2:24, “a pair of doves or two young pigeons,” which was allowed for those who could not afford a lamb, indicates that Joseph’s means were limited, yet he did what was necessary within his resources to fulfill his service to God (cf. 1Tim 5:8).

When Herod seeks to kill the newborn Jesus in Matthew 2:13-23, Joseph again heeds an angelic warning in a dream, this time to flee to Egypt, and later, to return to Nazareth, safeguarding his family from harm. These episodes not only portray him as a decisive protector but also as a man of action who places the safety and well-being of Mary and Jesus above his own comfort and security.

Lastly, Joseph’s honorable acceptance to adopt Jesus as his own son seals his legacy as a man of immense faith and virtue. This act of adoption was not merely a legal formality but a wholehearted acceptance of Jesus into his life, treating Him as his own and providing for Him as any father would, so that all knew Jesus as the son of Joseph and Mary. “And they said, Is not this Joseph’s son” (Luke 4:22; cf; John 6:42)?

Joseph’s life, therefore, offers a remarkable model of justice, obedience, scriptural fidelity, diligent earning, protection, and honor. In the grand narrative of Christianity, Joseph might often be seen in the background, but his influence and guidance were surely foreground in the early life of Jesus, the Savior of mankind. Through Joseph’s exemplary character, we see the qualities that God values in those He chooses.

Agape,

Spencer

What do we GAIN if we GAIN the whole world?

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Matthew 16:26 says, “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”

The world often tells us that success is measured by our wealth, our status, our accomplishments. But Jesus flips this notion on its head. He asks us to consider the value of our soul. What good is it if we gain everything the world offers, but lose the most precious thing we have—our eternal soul?

We Give up our Soul

Our soul is so valuable that God gave His own Son that we have the opportunity to be saved. Jesus died on the cross not to make us rich or famous, but to save our souls. He paid the ultimate price so that we might have eternal life. This is the greatest treasure, far surpassing anything the world can offer. (Rom 5:8-10)

We gain the affection of the World

When we set our affections on worldly gains over our spiritual well-being, we risk losing our soul. We can become so consumed by the pursuit of success, wealth, and approval that we neglect what is pleasing to God. We might find temporary happiness, but it’s fleeting and shallow compared to the deep, abiding joy that comes from knowing Christ. Romans 12:2 tells us, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” We are to live differently, to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things.

The Illusion of Worldly Gain

The world tells us to chase after material wealth, to seek power and fame. It tells us that the more we have, the happier we will be. But how often have we seen people who seem to have it all, yet are deeply unhappy, unfulfilled, and lost? They’ve gained the world but lost their soul’s true purpose and joy.

Jesus reminds us that our souls are eternal, while the things of this world are temporary. In 1 Timothy 6:7, we are reminded, “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” No amount of money, fame, or power can accompany us beyond this life. What truly matters is the condition of our soul.

We gain nothing except what we deserve

So, what do we win if we win the world but lose our soul? We gain nothing of true value. But when we seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, all these things will be added unto us (Matthew 6:33). When we focus on serving God, we find true peace, joy, and fulfillment.

Revelation 3:21 promises, “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.” This is the ultimate reward—eternity with Jesus, reigning with Him in glory. This is worth far more than anything the world can offer.

Let’s not be deceived by the lure of worldly success. Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Let’s treasure our relationship with Him above all else, knowing that our soul is of infinite worth. . “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you” (John 15:14).

Agape,

Spencer

This article is part 1 of a series titled, God’s Moral Law. click here for part one.

You’re invited to attend one of our services at the church of Christ on Franklin and Juniper in Borger Texas.

Do MORALS Matter? Not according to the WORLD.

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“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).

This passage highlights the contrast between the behaviors of Christians and those of the secular world.

It describes a past life indulged in excesses and immoral activities such as lust, drunkenness, revelry, and idolatry.

Upon turning to a Christian way of life, believers abstain from these practices, leading to a stark difference in conduct.

This transformation often confounds non-believers, who find it strange that Christians no longer join in their excessive and riotous behaviors. As a result, Christians might face criticism or slander for their newfound restraint and moral discipline.

In our secular society, there is a growing trend to sideline morality, with the world often asserting that ethical standards are subjective and unimportant. The Bible warns against this destructive philosophy.

The idea that wrong is relative is exemplified by the biblical account of Pharaoh’s defiance in Exodus 5:2: “And Pharaoh said, Who is the LORD, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the LORD, neither will I let Israel go.” Pharaoh’s stance reflects a broader modern sentiment that moral obligations are negotiable based on personal belief systems or the lack thereof. This relativism undermines the concept of an absolute moral authority.

The pursuit of personal gain often overrides moral considerations. In Luke 12:13-21, Jesus tells the parable of the rich fool, who hoards wealth without regard for others or his spiritual well-being. This story highlights how the quest for material success can eclipse ethical responsibilities, leading individuals to prioritize self-interest over faithfulness to God.

Doing what is “right in one’s own eyes” epitomizes the relativistic approach to morality. Judges 21:25 states, “In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” This verse illustrates the chaos and moral decay that arise when subjective judgments replace universal ethical standards.

Contemporary society often masks moral deviations under the guise of love. This rationalization can be seen in the acceptance of various forms of relationships, such as living together, polyamory, and other more controversial issues. By framing these practices as expressions of love, societal norms shift, challenging biblical moral frameworks.

The belief that death is the end and therefore morality is inconsequential is a profound reflection of nihilistic thought. If life has no ultimate purpose beyond physical existence, ethical considerations may seem futile. This outlook fosters a disregard for moral behavior, as the finality of death negates the perceived need for a moral compass.

The world’s dismissal of morality poses significant contrast to sound ethical standards. This is why we must be on guard against such flawed reasoning.

Agape,

Spencer

The Problem of SUGAR

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Howdy, brothers and sisters! Today, I want to talk to you about a little thing called “SUGAR.” Now, I know what you’re thinking – sugar is sweet and delightful, a treat for the taste buds. But what if I told you that sugar can be a grave and serious danger to our health?

Sugar is Sneaky

Sugar has a sneaky way of creeping into almost everything we eat. Even when we’re not expecting it, there it is, hidden in plain sight. eating and drinking too many added sugars, which can contribute to health problems such as weight gain and obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

We must always be on guard, and watchful, to recognize and resist its sneaky influences.

Sugar is Ubiquitous

Sugar is everywhere. It’s in our breakfast cereals, our sauces, and even our bread. We find it all around us in our daily lives – at work, in our homes, and even in our health food! Sugar often sneaks up on us when we’re not looking. It can be found in the most unexpected places, subtly influencing our health and wellbeing. It’s an omnipresent problem that we must be constantly alert.

Sugar is Gradual

The effects of consuming too much sugar aren’t immediate. It’s a gradual process where we might not notice the damage until it’s too late – the extra pounds, the sluggishness, or the health issues. This gradual erosion, small compromises, and seemingly insignificant choices can lead us far from our intended path over time. We must be diligent and committed, recognizing that small steps lead to poor health and tooth decay.

Sugar is Addictive

Sugar can be highly addictive. The more we consume, the more our bodies crave it. It creates a cycle that’s hard to break. This little treat is harmful to our bodies and we love killing ourselves with it. Some studies have suggested that sugar is as addictive as Cocaine. People often enjoy the dopamine release that sugar brings. But due to the addictive nature of sugar, it’s difficult to quit.

Recognizing this addictive nature is the first step in breaking free from its hold.

Sugar is Ruinous

Over time, excessive sugar can ruin our health, leading to diabetes, heart disease, and other serious conditions. It affects our relationships, our personal well-being, and our ability to interact with others, in particular, our children and grandchildren.

The ultimate ruin comes when we let these challenges dominate our lives, but there’s hope through changing habits, eating real food, and regular activity.

The Sweet Deception of Sin.

Friends, you’ve probably guessed by now that SUGAR is a metaphor for sin. Just as sugar sneaks into our diet, sin sneaks into our lives. It’s ubiquitous, gradual, addictive, and ultimately ruinous. But here’s the good news: we have a Savior who offers us freedom from this cycle.

By recognizing and addressing these issues head-on, we can live a life that truly honors God. Let’s be vigilant, stay rooted in scripture, and support one another in our walk of faith.

Sin is Sneaky

Remember what Jesus said in Matthew 26:41: “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” We must always be on guard, watchful and prayerful, to recognize and resist these sneaky influences.

Sin is Ubiquitous

In 1Peter 5:8, we are warned, “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” Just like sugar is found in the most unexpected places, so are the snares that can lead us astray.

Sin is Gradual

James 1:14-15 explains this well: “But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.” We must stay diligent and committed, recognizing that small, faithful steps lead to a righteous life, just as small missteps can lead to spiritual decay.

Sin is Addictive

In Hebrews 11:24-26 we see the powerful pull of sin. “By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.” Recognizing this addictive nature and having a desire to be with Christ is the first step in breaking free from its hold.

Sin is Ruinous

Romans 6:23 warns us, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” None are immune, all fall short. The ultimate ruin comes when we let these challenges dominate our lives, but there’s hope and redemption through Christ.

“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. 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.” (1John 1:8-2:3).

Stay sweet in the spirit, but mindful of the pitfalls, dear ones!

Agape,

spencer is an evangelist for the church of Christ on Franklin and Juniper in Borger Texas. If you’re in the Borger area, stop in a see us at one of our regular services.

Just a Christian

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The word “CHRISTIAN” is used only three times in the bible, and they tell us volumes about what it means to be one.

In a world filled with denominations, doctrines, and religious labels, the concept of simply being just “Christians” can be both refreshing and thought-provoking. This idea challenges individuals to strip away the layers of man-made traditions and sectarian divisions, focusing solely on the teachings of Jesus Christ and the early church. Embracing the identity of being just “Christian” emphasizes a return to the core principles of faith, love, and unity found in the New Testament.

It encourages believers to seek a shared commitment to following Christ without the barriers created by denominational affiliations.

Through this lens, being just “Christians” emphasizes a simple yet profound approach to live out the teachings of Jesus in a world that often complicates true faith.

“And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch” (Acts 11:26).

When we are baptized into Christ through faith we are added to the church (Acts 2:38-47). A disciple in the Lord’s church is an adherent of the doctrines of Christ. In this passage we learn that a CHRISTIAN is synonymous with being a disciple who had been added to the church by God when they obeyed the gospel. Many who claim to be Christian are neither adherent to the doctrine of Christ, and have not been added to the church not having obeyed the Gospel.

“Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian” (Acts 26:28).

In this passage, Agrippa demonstrates his understanding that the name CHRISTIAN involves doing something to become one. Here, “CHRISTIAN” is used interchangeably with what Paul taught and what he had done. Agrippa was being taught about Christ. What did Paul teach and what had he done? He was a Christian because he had been baptized into Christ (Acts 22:16), and he was a disciple (adherent to the doctrine) of Christ. “Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision” (Act 26:19).

“Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” (1Peter 4:16,17).

CHRISTIAN can be used interchangeably with “HOUSE of GOD.” A Christian is a member of the house of God. It can also be noted that Christian stands in contrast to “them that obey not the gospel.” As adherents to the teaching of Christ, and obedience to the gospel, we are not ashamed to bear the name “CHRISTIAN.”

There was no ‘church of your choice’ in New Testament times. Division was condemned (1Cor 1:10-13). When individuals obeyed the gospel of God by believing in Jesus, repenting of their sins, confessing their faith in Jesus and being baptized to wash away their sins, they were ADDED TO THE CHURCH by the Lord and were known by Him as His true disciples, (Acts 2:38,47). They were CHRISTIANS.

Agape,

Spencer

Here’s a link to another article about being a CHRISTIAN.

You’re invited to visit one of our assembly times or bible studies to see for yourself what we do and say.

Messages of Hope: Insights into the Minor Prophets

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In the Old Testament, a collection of writings from twelve individuals collectively forms what is known as the “Minor Prophets.”

These books might be brief, but their messages are profoundly significant, providing lessons, that resonate deeply with the human experience.

As stated in Romans 15:4, “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.”

The minor prophets might occupy a small section in the Bible, but their teachings echo through centuries, resonating with timeless truths about justice, repentance, and hope. Through a study of these texts, believers today can deepen their understanding of God’s character and His desires for humanity, leading lives that look to Him for how to live.

The minor prophets consistently call for moral integrity. Amos vehemently condemns the exploitation of the poor and the perversion of justice under the Law of Moses, while Micah famously declares, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). This push towards Moral Integrity and Justice is as relevant today as it was then, reminding us that God requires a morally upright people under the covenant of Christ (2Pet 1:5-11).

The minor prophets powerfully illustrate the immutability of God’s word—His unchanging truth and unwavering promises. Figures like Hosea and Malachi declared God’s steadfast love and justice amidst Israel’s unfaithfulness, underscoring His consistent character and eternal decrees. In the New Testament, this theme resonates in Matthew 24:35, where Jesus affirms, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”

A significant portion of the prophetic messages involves warnings about impending judgments due to the people’s unfaithfulness and idolatry. Prophets like Hosea and Zephaniah offer vivid descriptions of the consequences that await if the nation does not turn back to God. Yet, even within the stark warnings, there is always a call to repentance—a plea for turning away from wrong and returning to God. This pattern underscores a profound truth about God’s character: His justice is tempered with mercy, and His corrections are aimed at restoration, not destruction. “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2Peter 3:9).

Despite the frequent messages of doom, the minor prophets are also vehicles of incredible hope. They foretell the coming of a Messiah, and the establishment of a kingdom characterized by peace and mercy. For example, Zechariah speaks of a future King who will rule in righteousness and bring peace to the nations (Zechariah 9:9-10). These prophecies provide evidence that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, and that the church He built has always been in the plan of God.

The minor prophets, like Micah and Zechariah, emphasize the righteousness and holiness of God, calling for justice and moral purity among His people. They highlight that God detests sin because it is contrary to His holy nature. In the New Testament, this theme is echoed in 1Peter 1:15-16, where believers are exhorted to be holy in all their conduct because God is holy.

Agape,

Spencer

What Can We Say Shen We Don’t Know What to Say?

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“And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:15).

Being a personal worker is hard. Not only does the personal worker need to be able to present the truth with love, we must also combat error. I’ll admit it, I’ve often taken the “you’re wrong here’s why” approach to evangelism.

 Almost on a daily basis, especially Since I started preaching in Borger, I am told fantastic stories of how folks claim to have been saved. At no point is there ever a “thus saith the Lord” with a bible book, chapter, verse reference.

What do we say after those kinds of tales? It’s too easy to shake your head and close off the conversation because we don’t know how to respond.

I’ve discovered a better way, and I want to share it with you. Instead of running away, I see it as an opportunity to share the true Gospel, (Romans 1:16).

It’s called the “As for me…” principle as found in Joshua 24:15. The Apostle Paul used a similar tactic on Mars Hill. “Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you. God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands” (Acts 17:22-24).

Here’s how it works. First, I ASK if I can open up to them about my own salvation. I then tell them how I was SAVED according to the commands of God. I had to Hear the gospel (Matt 7:23-29). I Believe that Jesus is the Christ (John 8:24). I Repented and continue to live a penitent life (Luke 13:3). I have Confessed and continue to Confess Jesus before all (Matt 10:32). I was Baptized in Water, just as the Lord commands to have my sins washed away (Mar 16:16; Acts 2:38), and I strive to be Faithful to the Lord all the days of my life even if doing so causes me hurt (Mat 28:20; Rev 2:10). “I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day” (2Tim 1:12).       

Sometimes there are questions about what I’ve said. I answer by saying, “I’ve FOUND that there are many discrepancies between what people say and what God teaches in His word. This next part is important. I ask if I can show them what I did. Then OPEN an actual printed bible for them to see and read for themselves.

I READ to them, (or let them read) those passages that I saw when I first learned the truth. Sometimes I need a few MARGIN notes to remind me where they are. I let the gospel be the power of God unto salvation and not myself for the converting of the soul. Whenever I’ve relied on my own ability to quote scripture, I’ve been met with resistance. One person said, “Satan quoted scripture too.” That push back was helpful because it revealed to me what people are thinking whenever I have quoted verses (even if accurately). It’s hard for people to argue against the Word. They’ll try, but they’ll fail.

Finally, I have no EXPECTATIONS of them. Certainly, my desire is that they come to the knowledge of the truth and be saved, but that’s God’s work. My job is to scatter the seed on the ground of the heart (see Mark 4:14-20). “I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase” (1Cor 3:6).

Agape,

Spencer

Go here For some helps with scripture when sharing the gospel.

Who are we? We are just CHRISTIANS.

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WE ARE JUST CHRISTIANS

“Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian. And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.” (Acts 26:28,29).

We’re often asked to show our ID’s. From getting on a plane, to buying things on credit, or to the police officer that pulled me over looking for my autograph.

We use identification to gain access to banking accounts, safety deposit boxes, and the like.

When we speak about locating the Lord’s church, we look for its identifying marks. What does it teach about salvation, assembling together for worship, morality, and eschatology.

The Christian has an identity also. It’s interesting to note that our identity is in relationship to our God and to fellow Christians.

Let us explore our multifaceted identity as outlined in God’s Word.

When viewed in relation to God we are His children. “And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” (2Cor 6:18)

When viewed in relation of hope we are heirs. “And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” (Rom. 8:17)

When viewed in relation to each other we are brethren. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” (Rom. 12:1)

When viewed in relation to character we are saints. “To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Rom. 1:7)

If viewed as fighters we are soldiers. “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” (2Tim. 2:3)

When viewed in relation to our abode upon earth we are pilgrims. “Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.” (1Pet. 2:11.)

When viewed as the Image of Christ we are persecuted. “But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” (1Pet 4:13; cf. Matt 10:24,25; 2Tim 3:12).

When viewed as learners of Christ we are disciples (adherents). “Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matt. 28:19 ASV).

When viewed in relation to Christ we have a name; we are called Christians. “And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.” (Acts 11:26b).

When viewed as workers for the Lord we are servants of Christ. “For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.” (Gal. 5:13).

Agape,

Spencer

We are striving to be undenominational and non-sectarian. We plead for a restoration of New Testament Christianity. It is our sincere conviction that one cannot be right in the sight of God by ignoring and disregarding the teaching of God’s word. Let us strive to “do all in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Col. 3:17).

Remembering the Example of the Thessalonians

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“Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father.” (1Thessalonians 1:3).

The book of 1 Thessalonians, nestled in the New Testament, provides a profound and insightful guide for living a faithful life. In its five chapters, this epistle imparts at least five principles that resonates through the ages.

From turning away from idols to seeking to do good, 1 Thessalonians offers a roadmap for spiritual growth.

It is the first Epistle of the New Testament (after the letter in Acts 15), and is recommended to be read by all the Saints, and especially those new to the faith.

Let us delve into each principle, exploring their depth and relevance, while drawing inspiration from additional New Testament scriptures.

The first principle emphasizes a decisive turning point in the lives of the Thessalonian believers — the abandonment of idols in favor of embracing the one true God (1Thess 1:9). This echoes the broader biblical theme of avoiding false gods and worshiping the Almighty. In Matthew 4:10, Jesus reiterates this, stating, “Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.” Thus, turning away from idols is not merely a historical narrative but a timeless call to prioritize God in our lives.

The second principle underscores the importance of not just hearing the Word but receiving it as divine revelation (1Thess 2:13). This aligns with the New Testament teachings in 1 Corinthians 2:9-13.

The third principle involves how our example of faithfulness edifies and encourages fellow believers (1Thess 3:6). 2 & 3John reinforces this concept of encouragement coming from hearing of others’ faithfulness to the truth. The Thessalonians’ faithfulness not only strengthened their personal connection with God but also served as a source of inspiration and support for their brothers and sisters in Christ.

The fourth principle addresses the Christian hope of seeing the Lord someday (1Thess 4:13-18). This passage has provided comfort to believers through centuries, assuring them of the reunion with loved ones who have passed away in Christ. It resonates with Paul’s words in 1Corinthians 15:51-52, where he describes the transformation that will occur at the last trumpet, emphasizing the victory over death through Jesus Christ.

The final principle encapsulates the essence of Christian living – the continuous pursuit of goodness (1Thess 5:15). Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruits of the Spirit, with goodness being a key element. In a world marred by strife and discord, seeking to do good stands as a testament to a transformed heart. It echoes Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:16, encouraging believers to let their light shine through good deeds, glorifying God.

Conclusion:
The principles outlined in 1 Thessalonians offer a comprehensive guide for living a faithful and purposeful life. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us draw inspiration from these principles, anchoring our faith in the unchanging truths found in the Word of God.

Agape,
Spencer