There is much confusion, in the religious world regarding the Holy Spirit-His person, work, influence, etc. The denominations have for years claimed that the Holy Spirit is working among them in any number of ways, from miraculous healing to occasions of uncontrollable laughter as evidence of His presence to “speaking in tongues,” and on and on the list could go. However, all these claims are merely accusations which have absolutely no basis in fact. Such false accusations display a great misunderstanding of the purpose and duration of miracles, the nature of miraculous healing, and quite simply a gross misconception of the person and work of the Holy Spirit in general. The assertion that the Holy Spirit is working among these denominational groups attracts many who likewise misunderstand the Holy Spirit and His work. The sensationalism and emotionalism which characterize this religious craze has attracted mass numbers of people to these false religions. The thinking among many is that with all these people flocking to hear and see the Holy Spirit working among these groups, then they must be doing something right.

As is the case with all popular false doctrine, these teachings have found their way into the Lord’s church. For many years the consensus and established teaching among members of the church of Christ was that the Holy Spirit operated upon the hearts of individuals in conviction and conversion solely through the medium of the word of God. With the onset of “Holy Spirit-mania” sweeping through the denominational world, throngs of people affiliated themselves with all such groups that were teaching the miraculous operation of the Spirit among them. As a result, many preachers and teachers within the Lord’s church began to “reevaluate” their teaching regarding the indwelling and work of the Holy Spirit. It is not uncommon today to find Christians who assert that the Holy Spirit operates upon the human heart by means other than the word of God. This teaching calls for a direct operation of the Holy Spirit upon the human heart, separate and apart from the word of God.

I am convinced that much of the problem we face today in the Lord’s church with such false teaching concerning the Holy Spirit revolves around our teaching concerning the indwelling of the Spirit. Many faithful preachers taught, and many more continue to teach, that the Holy Spirit dwells in the Christian representatively, by means of the word. Other faithful preachers taught, and many continue to do so, that the Holy Spirit literally dwells in the child of God, but operates only through the medium of His word. So long as both sides agreed that the Holy Spirit operated only through the word, there was harmony and peace among brethren. However, some came along with the question, “If the Holy Spirit literally dwells in the child of God, then what is He doing?” The idea that the Spirit was in the Christian, but not doing anything that the word of God could not accomplish, seemed to favor those who taught a representative indwelling. Not willing to give up the idea that the Spirit literally indwells the child of God, some began teaching that the Holy Spirit indeed was doing something separate from His word. This is not an indictment against all who hold to the literal, personal indwelling of the Spirit, but against those who would create division among brethren by claiming and teaching that the Spirit works apart from the word upon the human heart. To claim this is to denigrate the word of God. Claiming that the Christian must have a direct operation of the Holy Spirit in order to overcome sin is contradictory to the words of David in Psalm 199:11, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee” (emphasis mine, SPM).

- Patrick Morrison

I can remember at times when I was a very small boy that an adult would sometimes allow me to sip coffee that they had poured from their cup into a saucer. This was such a treat for me. It made me feel as though as was a big boy, getting to drink coffee like the adults did. Most of us don’t use saucers very often any more, but it was a far more common practice years back. The saucer was placed underneath the cup in order to catch any overflow or spills.

Have you ever stopped to consider that God blesses us so much that we get to sip from the overflow? Our God is so good and gracious to us that He goes beyond simply providing those things that we need. He is the giver of every good and perfect gift (James 1:17) and blesses us above all that we can ask or think (Eph.3:20). The Psalmist put it this way: “My cup runneth over” (Psa.23:5). God had proven Himself time and time again to David in caring for his every need. David was so confident in the providence of God that he could say he would never lack (Psa.23:1). The image of his cup running over tells me that God blesses beyond what is needed, even beyond filling us up. He gives until there is simply no more room and the blessings overflow! To His own people God issued a challenge through the prophet Malachi: “Bring ye all the tithes into my storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it” (Mal.3:10). Someone once said of this passage in particular and of God’s giving in general that His shovel is bigger than ours. We cannot out-give God! “Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation” (Psa.68:19). He piles on the blessings.

Some may question where this abundance of blessings is to be found. They may look at their lives and see financial struggles and hardships and wonder where God is and why He isn’t blessing them. We must remember that God can bless our lives in so many ways beyond mere material gain! As we reflect on His goodness toward us, it ought to motivate us to give to others so that they, too, can come to know our benevolent, giving God! We are challenged: “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again” (Luke 6:38). The more that we learn to give of ourselves, our time, our talents, and our treasures, the more God causes the cup to overflow and we get to sip from the saucer!

- Patrick Morrison

Many will look at Lydia’s conversion as a direct operation of God upon her heart to save her, owing to the fact that the Lord is said to have opened her heart so that she could attend unto the things spoken of by Paul. Many hold the Calvanistic line in the case of Lydia’s conversion. Calvinists would assert that Lydia was born totally depraved (total hereditary depravity—inheriting the sin of Adam), so she then needed a direct operation of the Holy Spirit upon her heart in order for her to even desire salvation. God then acted upon her to open her heart so she could receive the word and obey it. The trouble with this is two-fold. First, Calvinism is false from its very outset, basing an entire system of doctrine on the assertion that all men and women inherit the sins of Adam. God’s word makes clear that each person will answer for his/her own sin, not the sins of others (Eze.18:20). Read More »

The book of Acts could rightfully be called the book of Conversions. The inspired writer Luke chronicles the beginning of the Lord’s church as well as the evangelistic fervor that engulfed the first-century saints. Acts traces the beginning of the gospel message in the city of Jerusalem to Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the earth (Acts 1:8). The early church grew at an unprecedented rate because they were convinced of the power of the gospel message (Rom.1:16). Everywhere they went, they preached the word (Acts 8:4) and multitudes obeyed. Only a few of the conversions are recorded for us in the book of Acts, but each account of conversion is vital to our understanding of God’s plan to redeem man from his sins. It is to the account of the conversion of Lydia that we turn our attention.

While spreading the gospel in Asia Minor, Paul received a vision that we commonly refer to as the “Macedonian call” (Acts 16:9). Paul, Silas, Luke, and others immediately set course for Philippi, the chief port of the Macedonian region. Upon arrival in Philippi, Paul found a group of devout women praying down by the riverside (vs.13), among whom was a woman by the name of Lydia. This speaks volumes about the faith of these women, as it is likely the case that there were not enough Jewish heads of families to warrant the construction of a synagogue in the city. They were determined to remain faithful in worship and service to their God. Lydia’s narrative is comprised of only two verses of Scripture (vv.14-15), but her example and influence are monumental. All that we know of her is contained in this short passage of Scripture. Lydia counted Thyatira as her home but likely chose to sell her wares in Philippi since it was a very busy port city. She was a seller of purple, a very expensive dye which only the wealthy could afford. Lydia may well have been a lady of wealth and prominence. We also know that she was very religious, one who “worshipped God.” In all likelihood she was a proselyte to the Jewish faith, well acquainted with the Old Testament Scriptures, and one who was eagerly anticipating the coming of the Messiah. Immediately upon hearing the gospel preached by Paul, she obeyed the gospel, along with those of accountable age in her household (vs.15). The conversion of Lydia seems very much like the other conversions we study in the book of Acts. Here is one who hears the gospel, believes the gospel, and obeys the gospel by being baptized into Christ for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38).

- Patrick Morrison

I will be the first to admit that I am a bit frugal (some would call me cheap, but I prefer frugal). The winter months generally find me running the thermostat down to near uncomfortable levels as I tell my family to put on warm clothes in the house. Summer time finds me sliding the thermostat to once again near uncomfortable levels, but this time on the opposing end of the spectrum and calling for my kids to find a fan under which to lie. Needless to say, I am constantly on my young children to turn off lights and any other electricity-draining devices while not in use. I have been known to remark that we are not Motel 6 (In case you don’t know, there motto is, “We’ll leave the light on for you”) or that it does not require every light in the house to be on in order to function in whatever capacity they may choose at the moment.

What is not good for the power bill is good for the church. The Master taught, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matt.5:14-16). We have been given a very grave responsibility to shine forth the light of God into the lives of others so that they may come to know Him as their Father. We are to be “blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world” (Phil.2:15). Christ is the source of light (John 8:12), and we are to reflect that light to a lost and dying world. A world enshrouded in the darkness of depravity and sin desperately needs us to let our lights shine! There are those who have allowed their lights to grow dim, having distanced themselves from the source of power (Eph.6:10). Many Christians are growing weak and their influence for good is quickly eroding. Perhaps because of discouragement, disappointment, the deceitfulness of sin, or any other number of reasons these have allowed their Christian lights to come dangerously close to being snuffed out. Let us exhort our brethren who may be in danger of slipping away to continue in the faith (Acts 14:22). Some have quit allowing their lights to shine altogether, having abandoned the way of the Lord to return to the pigpen of riotous living (2 Pet.2:20-22). These need to be snatched from the fire (Jude 23). Their lights are no longer shining in the house of the Lord. Sadly, there are still others who want everyone else’s lights to shine upon them so that they might receive the accolades and applause of men. Rather than pointing souls to the light of Jesus Christ, some want only for the glory to fall upon them. These need to be reminded that we are to let our lights shine so that God might receive the glory!

How tragic it is when every light is not on in the house of God! Every member of the Lord’s church has a responsibility to shine the light of God’s love, mercy, grace, longsuffering, and forgiveness into the lives of those who need to be brought to Jesus before it is eternally too late! Is your little Christian light still shining? Are you hiding it under a bushel? Have you allowed Satan to snuff it out? Is it shining all around the neighborhood? Let us do all that we can to ensure that every light in God’s house remains on!

- Patrick Morrison

Jesus is Rabbi (John 3:2), the Master Teacher (Matthew 19:16), the teachers’ teacher. No man spoke as he spoke or taught as he taught (Matthew 7:28-29). On numerous occasions his foes sought to ensnare Jesus in his own words (see Matthew 16:1; 19:3; 22:35; Mark 12:13; John 8:6), but his masterful use of logic and reasoning left his detractors unable to answer (Matthew 22:46). It is in the course of one of these “trials” that the question in the title is posed (Matthew 22:28). Initially, the Pharisees and the Herodians (more a political sect than a religious one) came to Jesus with the intent to trap Jesus in his words. Read More »

As Paul concludes these introductory thoughts of the character of true love, he writes, “and though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing” (13:3). Read More »

The church at Corinth was rife with problems and squabbles of every conceivable type. There were open divisions in the church (1 Corinthians 1:10ff). One brother in the church at Corinth had taken his father’s wife as his own, and the church refused to discipline him in order to save his soul (chapter 5). They were taking one another to court (chapter 6). They were guilty of abusing the Lord’s Supper (chapter 11). They were being led astray regarding the truth of the resurrection of Christ (chapter 15). Perhaps the most glaring strife in the church at Corinth was their constant bickering concerning the nature of spiritual (miraculous) gifts (chapters 12-14). Some were elevating one gift above another, particularly the miraculous ability to speak in tongues. In the midst of his discussion of these matters, Paul points the Corinthian brethren to the solution to all problems they were currently experiencing—true love (chapter 13). If only they would learn to love after this manner, then would their problems cease, and peace and harmony would reign in the church at Corinth. Though Paul sought to correct their thinking regarding the nature of their miraculous abilities, he pointed them to what he called “a more excellent way” (12:31). This is the way of agape love which he goes on to describe in great detail in chapter 13.

It is of the utmost importance that we take note of the absolute necessity of agape love in all that we think, say, and do in matters of a spiritual nature. Paul relates to the Corinthian brethren that even the noblest of tasks undertaken without this most supreme virtue were void of meaning and were to be counted as worthless, no matter how far reaching their effects nor how great the number of those who might benefit from such efforts. Paul states that “though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal” (13:1). Some in the church at Corinth were patting themselves on the back for their ability to speak in tongues, looking down their noses at those who possessed what they considered inferior miraculous abilities. That these paraded their gift before the church as a badge of honor smacked of arrogance and selfish ambition for the accolades of men. Without love as their motivation for exercising this God-given ability, their voices were as a cowbell in the midst of an orchestra. In comparing their sound to that of sounding brass and tinkling cymbal, Paul was likely showing that their speaking in tongues accomplished as much good as a pagan worship service (which was characterized by the banging of gongs or dull cymbals, and the sounding of brass horns). There also seems to be some sarcasm in the words of Paul in this verse, for not only did he have the miraculous ability to speak in tongues (14:18), but he may also have known the tongues of angels, having been caught up to the third heaven, hearing things unlawful to be uttered (2 Corinthians 12:3ff). In essence, Paul was stating that though they were bragging of their abilities, his were far greater. But this meant nothing if their talents were not used for the glory of God and for the good of the church!

Paul goes on to say that “though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing” (13:2). Though some had the coveted ability to speak in tongues, Paul states that it would not matter should they have all of the miraculous abilities imparted to those in the first-century church if they were unwilling to temper their use with the greater good of others in mind (charity, or agape love). Again, Paul uses a bit of sarcasm, as he had the ability to perform all miracles, far above the limited abilities of the Corinthian brethren. Any motivation other than true love for God and for the brethren causes even the most awe-inspiring exercise of religion to be totally devoid of meaning and worth. Paul states further that not only are these efforts futile when done apart from love, but the person undertaking these efforts is nothing. Such a description was a far cry from the over-inflated idea of self the Corinthian brethren had.

-Patrick Morrison

In a nation built upon freedom and liberty, we often take for granted the great privileges afforded us in this country. Our Constitution guarantees us certain freedoms, among these being the freedom of religion. We are able to run out and buy a Bible for next to nothing in our nation, and most families have two, three, four or more Bibles in their possession. We often take for granted this magnificent blessing. Because the Bible is so abundant in our land, we may never have stopped to consider how we came to have the Bible in the first place. Is the Bible I have really God’s word? How can I rest assured that the copy of the Bible I have in my hands has truly been delivered faithfully from God to man? Is the Bible just a product of man’s contrivance, or is it in truth the word of God, a revelation of Divine wisdom which will lead all who follow it to eternal bliss in heaven?
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Our world is sorely lacking in the virtue of true and lasting joy. Many pursue happiness with reckless abandon, only to have it elude them at every turn. Society has been brainwashed to think that happiness can be found in alcohol, sex, drugs, more money, new cars, the latest fashions, etc. Myriads greedily grab hold of these things that promise happiness only to find that their pursuits have been in vain. Things cannot bring happiness—never have, never will! I am grateful that my Lord came that we may have a full, abundant life (John 10:10). The religion of Christ is a religion of real happiness. Read More »

As we study the New Testament and gain greater insight into the daily life of the early church, we have to be impressed with their faithfulness and courage in the face of great adversity and persecution. Paul was quick to remind the first century saints that, “we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22). The assurance of suffering for the cause of Christ was to them just as real and as certain as any other promise God had ever made: “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2 Tim.3:12). Peter points out the fiery trials through which these precious children of God were soon to pass (1 Pet.4:12). These obeyed the gospel knowing full well the price that they would have to pay for so doing. They gladly suffered the loss of all things that they might win Christ (Phil.3:7-8). Most of these early Christians were unafraid of the threats of man, knowing that the God of heaven stood with them and for them (2 Tim.1:7; Heb.13:5-6). Armed with the confidence of their convictions, these valiant soldiers of the cross lived and proclaimed their faith with unwavering fidelity. When threatened with punishment for preaching the gospel, the early church simply prayed for greater boldness (Acts 4:29). When the punishment was carried out, they rejoiced to be counted worthy to suffer for the cause of their Lord (Acts 5:41). As the persecutions and trials grew even more severe and widespread, these stalwart saints kept the faith (Jude 3). When Rome sought to stamp out Christianity, threatening shunning, punishment, even death to those they discovered meeting to worship, the early church met any way! Even though they were relegated to meeting in caves and catacombs, they worshipped God through it and in spite of it all!
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How should we react when our brethren fail us and fall away from the Lord? We must remember that they have frailties and weaknesses just as we do. “There is none that doeth good, no, not one” (Romans 3:12). We should pray fervently for those who have gone astray: “Confess your faults one to another, and pray for one another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16). We must also do everything we can to help restore the erring to the way of right: “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted” (Galatians 6:1). Read More »

God, in His infinite wisdom and foresight, surrounded us with a spiritual family to help us on our journey toward heaven (1 Timothy 3:15). It would be near impossible for us to remain faithful to the Lord without the encouragement and support of a loving church family. God put us in the midst of those who can sympathize with our struggles, who can admonish us to leave behind our sins, who can lend us strength to fight the temptations around us, and who can rejoice in our victories. Truly, the wisdom of God is seen in the church: “To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God” (Ephesians 3:10). How many brethren have been on the verge of giving up on the Lord, only to be encouraged by the good examples and kind words of loving brethren? How many brethren have wandered away from the Father’s house, only to find their way home because of the efforts of their concerned brothers and sisters? How many brethren felt they were all alone in the battles they were facing, only to have an arm around their shoulder or a hug or a gentle word from those of their brethren who had faced similar circumstances? No child of God could put a value on being a part of the family of God! Brethren who serve as marvelous examples of godly living and who continually encourage those around them by word and deed are an asset to the church of our Lord. One of the great blessings of being a part of the body of Christ is the ability to lean upon and to count on the faithful.
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What is it that brings you to the Lord’s house upon the first day of the week as the saints assemble to worship God in spirit and in truth (John 4:24)? The religious world is vying for the attention of would-be worshippers, hoping to win the affections of those who are enamored with the glitz and glamour rather than that which is truly substantive. Sadly, many choose the place of worship based upon the physical edifice itself. The more opulent and grandiose the building, the more men seem to be attracted to such. Some families look around to find a place of worship, judging solely on the facilities. Do they have a gym? Do they have a day-care facility? Do they an area devoted to children? Such are very superficial means by which to gauge the atmosphere in which the congregants work and worship. No matter how lavish a building might be, and no matter how much of the physical structure is designed to cater to man’s “felt-needs,” we must remember that God is not at all impressed with our church buildings/facilities/plants/campuses. The Almighty created this entire universe and everything therein! He does not dwell in temples made with hands (Acts 17:24). While bragging about your new ten million dollar worship complex may impress some and lure them to such a monument, is this really what we want to draw us to worship? What happens when the place down the road builds something even more magnificent?
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God has always been concerned with the tenor of man’s heart. While we as humans are often enamored with the outward man—its looks, condition, adornments, etc.—to determine the worth of an individual, God has always looked to the inward man to see the true value of His creation. In the long ago, God told Samuel concerning the selection of a new king whom He would choose to rule over His people, “Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). Read More »

The first-century saints to whom Peter wrote were about to experience a great deal of suffering because of their faith. He warned them of a fiery trial, or test, to come (1 Pet.4:12). No doubt, these early Christians were already starting to feel the heat of various persecutions and were now being cautioned that things were going to grow even more difficult. Many view trials as troublesome inconveniences and necessary evils, but Peter, by the inspiration of God, paints a portrait of trials as tests of faith by which one can be purified and made stronger (1 Pet.1:7). Read More »

strong>Vision to Soar

The early church grew rapidly because they were not satisfied in their evangelistic endeavors. They had embraced the divine perspective concerning the value of lost souls (Matthew 16:26). Like the eagle in flight, the first-century church soared higher and higher, allowing them to see more and be more. Jesus came that we might live the abundant life (John 10:10). Why is it, then, that we often settle for less than the best when it comes to our spiritual lives? Mediocrity should have no place in the life of the child of God. Resting on our laurels, settling on our lees, leads to lukewarm, half-hearted service. Such is revolting to our Savior (Revelation 3:15-16). Are we satisfied to stir the waters of the baptistery only a few times each year, or do we desire to see them stirred on a daily basis (Acts 2:47)? Are we content to erect a church building and put up a sign advertising that the church meets in this particular location, expecting those who hunger and thirst after righteousness to come to us, or are we going from house to house with the message of salvation (Acts 20:20)? Are we happy to have ninety-nine in the fold, while one wanders away, or are we prepared to make every effort to reclaim that wandering lamb (Luke 15:4-7)? The first-century church mounted up on eagle’s wings, and refused to settle for mediocrity. Excellence in evangelism was their mantra, and from the evidence we conclude that they were very adept at leading souls to Jesus. It is time for the twenty-first century church to snap out of our lethargy, to repent of our complacency, and to soar to new heights in taking the gospel to the world.

Vision to Stay the Course

The early church embraced her mission with unparalleled zeal. When Jesus commanded those steadfast saints to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature (Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15), they took these marching orders to heart, and were soon turning the world upside down for the cause of their Master. They refused to be defeated by what must have seemed at the outset to be a rather daunting, if not altogether impossible, task. The first-century church was so committed to evangelizing the world that achieved their goal: “If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister” (Colossians 1:23). We live in the midst of amazing technology, when we can send a message around the globe in a matter of seconds. Yet, we often will not even walk next door to talk to our neighbor about Jesus! We can beam satellite transmissions into the remotest regions of our world, yet a sizable majority of souls in our world have never heard the gospel message! The early church would not be turned aside from her mission to take the gospel to every nation. A message that started in the hands and hearts of twelve men soon became known to every creature under heaven. Don’t tell me that we cannot evangelize the world for Jesus today! Could it be that we allow trials and tribulations to cause us to give up too easily? Have we not fully counted the cost of following the Lord, realizing that faithfulness to God requires that we be soul-winners for Jesus (2 Timothy 2:2)? If we want the church to grow today as it did in the first century, then we must be fully committed to evangelizing at every opportunity.

-Patrick Morrison

The early church was a growing church, aided not by games, gadgets, or gimmicks, but fueled simply by a desire to teach the gospel to the lost. When we consult the manual for church growth (the book of Acts), we read often about the astounding growth of the first-century church: “…and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls” (2:41); “…and the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved” (2:47); “And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women” (5:14); “…and much people was added unto the Lord” (11:24); “…when the number of the disciples was multiplied” (6:1); “And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith” (6:7); “…the churches…were multiplied” (9:31). Read More »

When Jesus was twelve years of age, he and his parents made their annual pilgrimage to Jerusalem to observe the Passover (Luke 2:41-42). Upon completing their observance of the feast, Joseph and Mary began the journey back to Nazareth, unaware that Jesus was not with them or the rest of the entourage (vs.43). It was only after they had travelled a day’s journey from Jerusalem that they realized the child Jesus was not among them (vs.44). How could they go so far without their son? Did they fail to realize how valuable the Christ was, and how important it was to keep him in their midst? Before we come down to hard on Joseph and Mary, consider how many people today are journeying without Jesus. Let us note a few important lessons from this text.

Joseph and Mary supposed Jesus was with them and the group that was leaving Jerusalem (vs.44). They merely assumed he was in their midst! It is likely the case that a large group had journeyed together. Some seem to think the custom of that time was for the women and young children to travel together, the men would travel with the men, and the older children would travel together. This might explain why his parents supposed Jesus was in the group. Perhaps they had seen him with the group as they prepared to leave Jerusalem, but now he was not among them. Whatever the case, trouble usually follows when we simply assume things. How many are journeying through this life under the assumption that Jesus is with them? Many are very sincere and devout in their religious convictions, and suppose that Jesus walks with them even though they have not stopped to check! We are instructed to look unto Jesus (Heb.12:2). He will walk with us so long as we walk with him (1 John 1:7). It is not enough to assume he is with us; we must know!

When they could not find the child, they searched among their kinsfolk and acquaintances (vs.44). Perhaps panic is starting to build in Joseph and Mary as they search for Jesus. Trying to maintain level heads, they probably tell themselves that if he is not right here, then he must be among friends and family. Alas, that assumption is, too, false. How many assume the very same thing religiously? Maybe some take the time to search for Jesus in their lives, and realizing he is not there, then assume that he must be among their religious friends and family. Sadly, many follow the religion of mom and dad without ever stopping to see if Jesus is walking with them. Notice how much heartache and confusion was caused by these false assumptions. Though they journeyed one day without Jesus, it took them three days to find him (vs.46)! If we would but take the time to make sure Jesus is walking with us, we could save ourselves from so much anguish and heartbreak!

Finally, when Joseph and Mary could not find Jesus in the group of travelers, they retraced their steps to Jerusalem, and found Jesus in the temple (vv.45-46). If only they had done this to begin with! If you are journeying without Jesus in your life, don’t assume he is among your family or friends simply because they are religiously sincere and devout. Search for Jesus. Trace his steps through the Scriptures (1 Pet.2:21). You will find that the footprints of Jesus lead to the temple of God today, the church (Eph.2:21). He is in his church, and has been since he ascended to the right hand of the Father. If you want to find Jesus, then find his church (Matt.16:18-19). Don’t journey without Jesus any longer! Seek him while he may be found (Isa.55:6)!

- Patrick Morrison

To summarize, the Catholics teach that Purgatory is the realm of the dead to which the faithful saints must go in order to purge them of their sins before they are able to enter the joy of heaven. Prayers, masses, and alms may be offered on the behalf of the souls in Purgatory by living friends and relatives in order to hasten their entrance into heaven. On what does the Catholic Church base such a doctrine? Again, I invite you to listen to some of their own. One writer states, “This (purgatory, SPM) is one of the teachings of the church (Catholic Church, SPM) that is not directly in the Bible.” (Anthony Marinelli, The Word Made Flesh: An Overview Of The Catholic Faith). Yet another writer says, “We would appeal to these general principles of Scriptures, rather than to particular texts often alleged in proof of Purgatory. Read More »

Perhaps no other false doctrine is as perverse and devilish as the humanly contrived teaching deemed Purgatory. While this doctrine is not widespread among the denominations, it certainly deserves our consideration since it is a cardinal teaching of the largest denomination in the world, the Roman Catholic Church. Lest I be accused of bigotry and bias, I will allow the Catholic Church and her adherents to speak regarding the doctrine of Purgatory. Their catechism states: Read More »

It is time for our annual Vacation Bible School! Just a little over a week remains until we start our VBS. We hope that each of you are planning to be here each night July 18th through the 21sth, and that you are working hard to invite and bring others with you. We will have classes for all ages, including adults, so there is no excuse for not being here for VBS. From the outset, I would like to thank Danny, Shelya, and Amy Latham for being the driving force behind our VBS. Without them, this would not be possible. Thanks also to the many who have helped with the props, decorations, refreshments, readying classrooms, and those who will teach and assist our teachers throughout the course of Vacation Bible School. There are many I have already seen working on VBS, as well as many that I know are involved with it in some way. That being said, there are likely some I don’t even know about who are busy helping us get things ready. We love and appreciate each of you! What does VBS mean to you? Below are some things that come to mind as I think about what VBS is.
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The church has a responsibility to pursue peace. In a world that is increasingly threatened with unspeakable atrocities at the hands of overly- zealous religious fanatics, the message of true peace found in Christ Jesus (Rom.5:1) grows more and more desirable with each passing day to a world that lives in constant fear and insecurity. It is the case that the church of our Lord is depicted as the army of God (Ephesians 6:10-18; 2 Timothy 2:3-4, etc.), marching forth under the blood-stained banner of the cross, led to victory (1 Corinthians 15:57) by the Captain of our salvation (Hebrews 2:10). However, the army of God does not wage a carnal warfare (2 Corinthians 10:3-4), bent on forcing those who do not or will not believe to comply with God’s commands or face threats unimaginable to their physical person. The church of Jesus Christ is waging war for men’s souls (Ephesians 6:12) by carrying forth and proclaiming the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15) in an attempt to persuade men (2 Corinthians 5:11) to follow the Prince of peace (Isaiah 9:6). We as Christians are charged that “if it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men” (Romans 12:18), and to “seek peace, and ensue it” (1 Peter 3:11). True peace will only come to those in the world when they respond in whole-hearted obedience to God’s word. Sadly, many are proclaiming “peace, peace, when there is no peace” (Jeremiah 6:14) by compromising the truth of God’s word. Such will never lead one to the “peace of God which passeth all understanding” (Philippians 4:7). We have an obligation to model a religion of true peace before the world. Read More »

Paul stated in Romans 1:14 that he was “debtor both to the Greeks and the Barbarians; both to the wise and the unwise.” He felt a great debt of gratitude to God for saving him from his sins and allowing him to preach the unsearchable riches of Christ (Ephesians 3:8). He felt a grave responsibility to the church and to the world as he went about to proclaim the good news of salvation through the blood of Jesus. Those who comprise the church of Christ today should feel no less of an obligation to the world around us. Not only are we indebted to God for His love and mercy He has so abundantly showered upon us, and not only are we indebted to faithful saints who have lived before us and encouraged us to walk in the paths of right, but we also have a weighty responsibility to those lost souls outside of the Lord’s church. Just what do we owe the world? What is the responsibility of the church when it comes to those in the world?

The church has a responsibility to preserve a godly influence in the world. As the world around us becomes more and more unsavory, Christians are charged with being the “salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13). The idea here presented by the master Teacher is that of being a preservative of godliness in a world that is anything but godly. With each passing day, Satan seems to be gaining a greater foothold among the hearts and minds of men. As “evil men wax worse and worse” (2 Timothy 3:13), Christians must preserve a faithful remnant of godliness. We must commit to living for the Lord. We must raise our children in the “nurture and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4) so that subsequent generations may carry forth the seeds of godliness. If we fail to hold on to that which is good and right, then our world will fall further and further into the doldrums of sin.

The church has a responsibility to provide light in an ever- darkening world. Sin is further enshrouding the world in darkness. Day by day the light of goodness and godliness seems to grow dimmer and dimmer amidst the blackness and bleakness of iniquity. While this problem is not new, the magnitude of man’s trouble with sin appears to grow worse with each passing day. “Men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19). The darker the night of sin becomes, the brighter the light of the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ will shine. Christians are “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14), and, therefore, we are instructed to “let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Though we live in “the midst of a crooked and perverse generation,” we are to “shine as lights in the world” by “holding forth the word of life” (Philippians 2:15-16). The light provided by the godly living of God’s children is not produced by the followers of God. Rather, we reflect the light of Christ (John 8:12) and the glorious light of His holy word (Psalm 119:105) by living according to the commands of God. As we do, the world is able to see the Son shining in and through us (Galatians 2:20).

- Patrick Morrison Read More »

On one occasion as Jesus was passing through Samaria and Galilee, ten lepers cried out to him for mercy and healing (Luke 17:12- 13). With his usual magnanimous compassion Jesus healed them and instructed them to go show themselves to the priests so that they might be pronounced clean (vs.14). Only one of the ten returned to give thanks, a Samaritan who fell at the feet of Jesus to exhibit his gratitude (vv.15-16). It is then that Jesus asks a rather pointed question: “Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger” (vv.17-18). The implication of Jesus’ observation is that the nine who did not return were Jews who in their covenant relationship with God should have been expected to give glory to God for His mercy and healing. This account provides a rather scathing rebuke of God’s own people who were guilty of gross ingratitude. Add to this the insult of a despised and religiously-wrong Samaritan who displayed the thanksgiving that the nine refused to express. The question, “Where are the nine?” reflects a sad, yet all too common occurrence both then and now. Read More »