Tag the Word

My Sheep KNOW My Voice John 10:4

The Preacher 1 Comment

Knowing the Voice of Jesus: The Written Word as the Sole Means

In John 10:4, Jesus, the Good Shepherd, declares, “And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.” Believers today do not hear an audible voice nor witness the signs Jesus performed during His earthly ministry, as those signs, per John 20:30-31, were recorded so that we might believe without seeing them firsthand: “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.” The implication is that the signs done then will not be repeated; instead, we know Jesus’ voice through the written word. The apostles’ teaching, the New Testament history of Jesus, and obedience to Christ all converge in the written word as the sole means to know His voice and the truth.

We will know His voice by keeping the apostles’ teaching. The apostles, guided by the Holy Spirit, delivered Jesus’ teachings, preserved in Scripture. John 16:13 promises, “When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.” Their doctrine, recorded in the written word, allows us to hear Jesus. Later Jesus prays for the apostles in John 17:20, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;” This shows us that people will believe through their inspired preaching and teaching which is now recorded for all in the New Testament.  Acts 2:42 shows early believers “continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine,” while Galatians 1:11-12 clarifies, “The gospel which was preached of me is not after man… but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.” These inspired writings are our access to His voice today.

We will know His voice by the New Testament history of Jesus Christ. The Gospels record Jesus’ life and works, but the signs He performed were for those who saw them personally. John 20:29 reinforces this: “Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” We know Him through the written record, as Luke 1:1-4 states: “To set forth in order a declaration… that thou mightest know the certainty of those things.” The written history in Scripture conveys His voice to us. John 20:31a, “But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God;”

We will know His voice by obedience to Christ. Obeying Jesus’ commands, found in Scripture, confirms we hear His voice. John 10:27 says, “My sheep hear my voice… and they follow me.” 1 John 2:4 warns, “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” John 14:23 adds, “If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him.” Obedience to the written word ensures we know Him.

The written word is the only means by which we know Jesus’ voice and the truth. The signs Jesus performed, as recorded in John 20:30-31, were for those who saw them, but we believe through what is written. Jesus’ life is in the word (John 5:39: “Search the scriptures… they are they which testify of me”). The apostles’ teachings come from the word (2 Peter 1:21). The Holy Spirit revealed the word (2 Timothy 3:16). While preachers may proclaim the gospel (Romans 10:14), they must teach from the written word. 2 John 1:9 emphasizes, “He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.” The written word alone enables us to hear and follow the Good Shepherd.

We will know His voice by keeping the apostles’ teaching. The apostles, guided by the Holy Spirit, delivered Jesus’ teachings, preserved in Scripture. John 16:13 promises, “When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.” Their doctrine, recorded in the written word, allows us to hear Jesus. After Jesus then prays for the apostles, He then prays this in John 17:20, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;” This shows us that people will believe through their inspired preaching and teaching which is now recorded for all in the New Testament.  Acts 2:42 shows early believers “continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine,” while Galatians 1:11-12 clarifies, “The gospel which was preached of me is not after man… but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.” These inspired writings are our access to His voice today.

We will know His voice by the New Testament history of Jesus Christ. The Gospels record Jesus’ life and works, but the signs He performed were for those who saw them personally. John 20:29 reinforces this: “Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” We know Him through the written record, as Luke 1:1-4 states: “To set forth in order a declaration… that thou mightest know the certainty of those things.” The written history in Scripture conveys His voice to us.

We will know His voice by obedience to Christ. Obeying Jesus’ commands, found in Scripture, confirms we hear His voice. John 10:27 says, “My sheep hear my voice… and they follow me.” 1 John 2:4 warns, “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” John 14:23 adds, “If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him.” Obedience to the written word ensures we know Him.

In conclusion, the written word is the only means by which we know Jesus’ voice and the truth. The signs Jesus performed, as recorded in John 20:30-31, were for those who saw them, but we believe through what is written. Jesus’ life is in the word (John 5:39: “Search the scriptures… they are they which testify of me”). The apostles’ teachings come from the word (2 Peter 1:21). The Holy Spirit revealed the word (2 Timothy 3:16). While preachers may proclaim the gospel (Romans 10:14), they must teach from the written word. 2 John 1:9 emphasizes, “He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.” The written word alone enables us to hear and follow the Good Shepherd.

Agape

Seeking God; Aspiring to Excel

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Aspiring to Excellence (Godliness and Holiness)

In my walk with Christ, I’m learning to aspire to excellence through godliness and holiness, though I often feel unworthy of such a high calling. 1 Timothy 6:11 urges me to pursue godliness, a life of devotion to God, while Hebrews 12:14 calls me to “pursue… holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” These virtues connect to the righteousness and faith in 1 Timothy 6:11 and 2 Timothy 2:22, and they echo the call to seek “things above” in Colossians 3:1-2. I’m far from perfect, but I long to reflect God’s character more each day.

This pursuit is crucial because it draws me closer to God Himself. Godliness means living with reverence, seeking His will in every decision, but I often get distracted by worldly concerns. Holiness, too, challenges me to stand apart from sin and selfishness, as Hebrews 12:14 warns that without it, I won’t see God. This sobers me, reminding me that my efforts matter, not to earn salvation but to honor the One who saved me. These virtues shape my heart, teaching me to love what God loves and hate what He hates, aligning with the righteousness of both Timothy passages.

Aspiring to godliness and holiness is a humbling journey. I need the support of other saint, as 2 Timothy 2:22 suggests, pursuing these virtues “with those who call on the Lord.” Through prayer, Scripture, and accountability, I’m slowly growing, learning to forgive quickly, speak truthfully, and serve humbly. Each step feels like a battle, but it’s worth it to become more like Christ. As a saint, I seek this treasure of excellence, trusting God to refine me into His image, one faltering step at a time.

to what shall we compare the WORD?

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The Bible is filled with powerful imagery to describe the Word of God, using metaphors that reflect its dynamic and life-altering nature. From being a weapon in spiritual warfare to our daily spiritual sustenance, the scriptures portray the Word as essential for life, growth, and transformation.

1. The Word as a Weapon: Sword and Hammer

The Word of God is often depicted as a tool of immense power, capable of cutting through deception and breaking down barriers. In Ephesians 6:17, the Apostle Paul describes the Word as “the sword of the Spirit,” a crucial part of the armor of God. This sword is not just any weapon but one that can pierce deeply, exposing the truth and confronting the lies and temptations of the enemy.

Similarly, Hebrews 4:12 emphasizes that “the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword,” underscoring its ability to discern “the thoughts and intents of the heart.” This sharpness reflects the way God’s Word penetrates to the deepest levels of human existence, challenging us, revealing sin, and guiding us toward righteousness.

In Jeremiah 23:29, God says, “Is not my word like a fire? saith the Lord; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces?” The image of a hammer conveys the sheer strength of the Word, which can break through even the hardest heart, bringing about conviction, repentance, and transformation.

2. The Word as Our Daily Food: Bread, Milk, Meat, & Honey

The Bible also presents the Word of God as essential nourishment for our spiritual lives. In Matthew 4:4, Jesus declares, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” Here, the Word is compared to bread, the basic sustenance for life. Just as physical bread nourishes the body, the Word of God nourishes the soul, giving us the strength we need to grow and thrive spiritually.

For those new in their faith, the Bible compares the Word to milk. 1 Peter 2:2 encourages believers, “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.” Just as infants need milk to grow strong and healthy, new believers need the simple truths of the Word to mature in their faith.

As we grow, the Bible encourages us to go beyond the milk of the Word to the deeper, richer truths that are compared to meat. Hebrews 5:14 says, “Strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age.” This metaphor emphasizes that the Word is not only for the spiritual beginner but also for the mature believer seeking deeper spiritual understanding.

In Psalm 19:10, the Word of God is described as “sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.” Honey represents sweetness and pleasure, highlighting how the Word brings delight, satisfaction, and joy to those who meditate on it and apply its teachings.

3. The Word as Life-Giving Rain and Snow

The Bible uses natural cycles like rain and snow to symbolize the life-giving impact of God’s Word. In Isaiah 55:10-11, God compares His Word to rain and snow that water the earth and make it fruitful: “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please.” Just as rain and snow nourish the ground, causing plants to grow and produce fruit, the Word of God accomplishes its purpose, bringing growth and fruitfulness to our spiritual lives.

4. The Word as Light in Darkness

Finally, the Word of God is described as light, providing guidance and clarity in a dark world. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Without the Word, we would stumble in spiritual darkness, unable to see the right way forward. The Word reveals the truth, showing us the path of righteousness and helping us navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and discernment.

The Word of God is a powerful weapon, an essential source of nourishment, a life-giving force, and a guiding light. Its metaphors reflect its multifaceted role as it confronts, sustains, renews, and leads us closer to God. As we embrace the Word, we experience its transforming power and its ability to equip us for every good work.

Agape

spencer

Reasons I Read the BIBLE pt3

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Reasons I read the BIBLE. #3

To BE ONE with God.

John 17:20-21 KJV

“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; [21] That they all may BE ONE; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may BE ONE in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.”

Jesus prayed for us that we would believe through the word of the Apostles which has been written for our understanding (Eph 3:3–4). He then stated the reason, that we all may BE ONE in God and in Christ as they are one.

If we’re not reading then we’re unable to find that unity in Christ.

“There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.”

(Eph 4:4-6)

When we READ and STUDY we can all be on the same sheet.

“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.”

(1Cor 1:10)

That’s why I read the Bible. To BE ONE with God, Jesus, and the church.

Let’s read the bible through in 2023

Here’s a link to some printable Bible reading Bookmarks.

If you live in the Borger area and would like to study the bible better, we invite you to one of our services with the church of Christ on Franklin and Juniper.

8 Reasons to be GRATEFUL

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“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

(1Thess 5:18)

People talk a lot about what God wants for them, usually inaccurately. Paul wrote the above passage clearly stating at least one thing God wants for us to do, be GRATEFUL.

In these tumultuous times it’s sometimes difficult to find some reasons to be GRATEFUL. However, when we have a specific command, we need to figure out how to complete it.

If GRATEFUL we should, then GRATEFUL we could.

What follows in this article are just a few things from scripture for which we can give thanks. It need not be very hard, for God says, “Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.” (Psalm 40:3)

Since every good gift comes from above, these are just a sampling of the perfect gifts from God. We could expand upon this list every day for the rest of our lives. (cf. James 1:17)

8 things for which I am GRATEFUL.

I’m grateful for God’s Grace. “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,” (Titus 2:11). “But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost” (Titus 3:4-5).

I’m grateful for God’s Revealed word. “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). “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: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” 2Peter 1:3-4).

I’m grateful for Adoption. “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons and because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father” (Gal 4:4-6).

I’m grateful for Trying times. “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing” (James 1:2-4).

I’m grateful for Everything that Everyone gets. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning” (James 1:17). “Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness” (Acts 14:17). “That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matt 5:45).

I’m grateful for Faithful Brethren. “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” (Phil 1:3-6)

I’m grateful for the ability to Understand God’s word, and to know wisdom. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.  For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways” (James 1:5-8).

I’m grateful for the Love of God for me, you, and all. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life” (Rom 5:8-10). “In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another” (1John 4:9-11).

Spencer

Spencer is an evangelist for the church of Christ at Franklin & Juniper in Borger Texas.

If we have time, preach the Gospel

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THIS IS NOT another article on being busy, or wasting time. Neither is this article going to tell you never to help the needy. No, this article looks at some complicated issues facing the church. Below are two questions that get to the heart of the matter…

  • Why did Jesus come to Earth?
  • What is the work of His church?

Answering these questions incorrectly can lead to a misunderstanding of the work of the church. We must know the answer, we’ve got to get it right. To do otherwise will cause a lot of us to be lost.

Recently, a brother in Christ stated, “In my Bible, Jesus spent His life helping poor and the needy.” It is statements like this that have led to a complete departure from the God given work of the church. Many denominations have deprecated the work of the church and turned it into a benevolent organization. If that is what God wants us to do, we had better do it. However, what if He gave the church, that He built, a different task?

To find out what our work is, we need to answer those two questions.

Why did Jesus come to Earth?

Looking to what Jesus Himself said on the matter, we find a few passages…

And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business? [Luke 2:49] Did Jesus say this as the carpenter’s son or as the Son of God? Clearly, He spoke as Emmanuel, God with us.

And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent. [Luke 4:43] In this passage, Jesus is plainly saying why He came to earth, TO PREACH THE KINGDOM OF GOD.

When people came to Jesus in John 6, He perceived that they only came for the physical food. What He says to them speaks volumes about why He was here. Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. [John 6:26-27] If Jesus’ job was to provide for the physical needs of the poor, why didn’t He feed them again? If you didn’t get it, read vs 29; Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. The work of God, the job Jesus came to do, was to teach people about the Kingdom of God, to pay the penalty for sin so that we could be reconciled back with God. He did the miracles of feeding and healing to CONFIRM that this message, which was alluded to in the OT, was from God [John 20:30-31].

When we look at other passages, we learn what others thought of Our Lord’s work. The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. [John 1:29, 36] John the baptizer knew why Jesus had come, it was to reconcile man back to God.

At the circumcision of Jesus, Zacharias said, “And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins,” [Luke 1:76-77]. We are separated because of sin and need a Savior. If we understand the principles of sacrifice from the scripture, then we will have a better understanding of why Jesus came to earth. He came to bring salvation from sin.

Lastly, when we look at the last command He gave while still on this earth, we learn the answer to question two.

What is the work of His church?

What was the last command Jesus gave while still on earth? He gave it after His DEATH, BURIAL & RESURRECTION.

And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 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. [Mat 28:18-20; cr. Mark 16:15-16]

Jesus, the founder and builder of the church which bears His name, gave very clear instructions; PREACH THE GOSPEL, MAKE DISCIPLES (through hearing, believing, confession, repentance & baptism) and to TEACH those disciples to obey His commandments. THIS IS THE WORK OF THE CHURCH! Can people feed the poor, YES. Should people feed the poor, once again, YES. And the bible gives us instruction on how and who. It also limits the church collective to needy saints [1Tim 5:16]. We need to focus on preaching the Gospel, to do anything less is to place salvation as a secondary activity to physical concerns, something we do IF WE GET TIME.