The Church and the World walked far apart
On the changing shores of time,
The World was singing a giddy song,
And the Church a hymn sublime.
"Come, give me your hand," said the merry World
"And walk with me this way!"
But the good Church hid her snowy hands
And solemnly answered "Nay,
I will not give you my hand at all,
And I will not walk with you;
Your way is the way that leads to death;
Your words are all untrue."
"Nay, walk with me but a little space,"
Said the World with a kindly air;
"The road I walk is a pleasant road,
And the sun shines always there;
Your path is thorny and rough and rude
But mine is broad and plain;
My way is paved with flowers and dew
And yours with tears and pain;
The sky to me is always blue,
No want, no toil I know;
The sky above you is always dark,
Your lot is a lot of woe;
There's room enough for you and me
To travel side by side."
Half shyly the Church approached the World
And gave him her hand of snow;
And the old World grasped it and walked along,
Saying, in accents low,
"Your dress is too simple to please my taste;
I will give you pearls to wear,
Rich velvets and silks for your graceful form,
And diamonds to deck your hair."
The Church looked down at her plain white robes,
And then at the dazzling World,
And blushed as she saw his handsome lip
With a smile contemptuous curled.
"I will change my dress for a costlier one,"
Said the Church, with a smile of grace;
Then her pure white garments drifted away,
And the World gave, in their place,
Beautiful satins and shining silks,
Roses and gems and costly pearls;
While over her forehead her bright hair fell
Crimped in a thousand curls.
"Your house is too plain," said the proud old World,
"I'll build you one like mine;
With walls of marble and towers of gold,
And furniture ever so fine."
So he built her a costly and beautiful house;
Most splendid it was to behold;
Her sons and her beautiful daughters dwelt there
Gleaming in purple and gold;
Rich fairs and shows in the halls were held,
And the World and his children were there.
Laughter and music and feasts were heard
In the place that was meant for prayer.
There were cushioned seats for the rich and the gay,
To sit in their pomp and pride;
But the poor who were clad in shabby array,
Sat meekly down outside.
"You give too much to the poor," said the World.
"Far more than you ought to do;
If they are in need of shelter and food,
Why need it trouble you?
Go, take your money and buy rich robes,
Buy horses and carriages fine;
Buy pearls and jewels and dainty food,
Buy the rarest and costliest wine;
My children, they dote on all these things,
And if you their love would win
You must do as they do, and walk in the ways
That they are walking in."
So the poor were turned from her door in scorn,
And she heard not the orphan's cry;
But she drew her beautiful robes aside,
As the widows went weeping by.
Then the sons of the World and the Sons of the Church
Walked closely hand and heart,
And only the Master, who knoweth all,
Could tell the two apart.
Then the Church sat down at her ease, and said,
"I am rich and my goods increase;
I have need of nothing, or aught to do,
But to laugh, and dance, and feast.
"The sly World heard, and he laughed in his sleeve,
And mockingly said, aside
"The Church is fallen, the beautiful Church;
And her shame is her boast and her pride."
The angel drew near to the mercy seat,
And whispered in sighs her name;
Then the loud anthems of rapture were hushed
And heads were covered with shame;
And a voice was heard at last by the Church
From Him who sat on the throne,
"I know thy works, and how thou hast said,
`I am rich, and hast not known
That thou art naked, poor and blind,
And wretched before my face;'
Therefore from my presence cast I thee out,
And blot thy name from its place."
-- MATILDA C. EDWARDS
Friday, May 29, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Antidote for Anxiety
A look at today's headlines can produce anxiety -- fear and uncertainty as to the future. Recession, depression, socialism, atheism, nuclear development, terrorism, the list goes on...
How should a child of God react? How to cope with all these depressing and anxiety-producing statistics?
Isaiah 25 tells us: "Therefore shall the strong people glorify thee, the city of the terrible nations shall fear thee. For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall." (vs. 3-4)
This is the Lord our God. When we are needy and in distress, when terrible ones and terrible nations come against us in a blast -- He is our strength.
Isaiah 26:3 prescribes for us the antidote for anxiety: "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Yes, we can have perfect peace in the midst of all the turmoil in this world, IF we STAY our minds on HIM. If we trust only in HIM.
How should a child of God react? How to cope with all these depressing and anxiety-producing statistics?
Isaiah 25 tells us: "Therefore shall the strong people glorify thee, the city of the terrible nations shall fear thee. For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall." (vs. 3-4)
This is the Lord our God. When we are needy and in distress, when terrible ones and terrible nations come against us in a blast -- He is our strength.
Isaiah 26:3 prescribes for us the antidote for anxiety: "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Yes, we can have perfect peace in the midst of all the turmoil in this world, IF we STAY our minds on HIM. If we trust only in HIM.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Doctrinal Unity
“To argue that the Bible is authoritative, but to be unable to come to anything like agreement on what it says even with those who share an evangelical commitment is self-defeating. After about so much acceptance of doctrinal disunity and all kinds of interpretations, doesn’t even common sense tell us that it becomes a fallacy to stand and wave our hands on the inerrancy of the Scripture when we can’t even come close to agreeing on what it says? Brethren, we can’t give up! We cannot put aside the Scriptural requirement of doctrinal unity. Because the next step is doubts about the Word.”
--Sermon Excerpt: Elder Bro. N.S.
--Sermon Excerpt: Elder Bro. N.S.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
The Cross is not Greater than His Grace
The cross that He gave may be heavy,
But it ne’er outweighs His grace;
The storm that I feared may surround me,
But it ne’er excludes His face.
The thorns in my path are not sharper
Than composed His crown for me;
The cup that I drink not more bitter
Than He drank in Gethsemane.
The light of His love shineth brighter,
As it falls on paths of woe;
The toil of my work groweth lighter,
As I stoop to raise the low.
His will have I joy in fulfilling,
As I’m walking in His sight;
My all to the blood I am bringing,
It alone can keep me right.
Refrain:
The cross is not greater than His grace,
The storm cannot hide His blessed face;
I am satisfied to know
That with Jesus here below,
I can conquer every foe.
Tabernacle Hymns
--Ballington Booth
But it ne’er outweighs His grace;
The storm that I feared may surround me,
But it ne’er excludes His face.
The thorns in my path are not sharper
Than composed His crown for me;
The cup that I drink not more bitter
Than He drank in Gethsemane.
The light of His love shineth brighter,
As it falls on paths of woe;
The toil of my work groweth lighter,
As I stoop to raise the low.
His will have I joy in fulfilling,
As I’m walking in His sight;
My all to the blood I am bringing,
It alone can keep me right.
Refrain:
The cross is not greater than His grace,
The storm cannot hide His blessed face;
I am satisfied to know
That with Jesus here below,
I can conquer every foe.
Tabernacle Hymns
--Ballington Booth
Monday, May 25, 2009
Cross-Bearing
It says, if any man will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. Sometimes we think of a cross as maybe the death of a loved one or a health problem. That’s not the cross He is speaking about here. The cross He is speaking about here is a daily cross of denying our self. It is something that for us to nail self to.
There’s three things that Paul said needs to be nailed to that cross. I’d like to just elaborate for a moment on this cross bearing. Because again, this is another message that is getting lost today. Paul said in Romans 6:6, that, first of all, we have to nail sin to the cross. In Galatians 2:20, Paul said we have to put self on the cross. In Galatians 6:14, he said we have to crucify the world on the cross. Sin, self and the world.
Why? It’s because Jesus wants the focus to be on Him and not on sin, self or the world. When we put sin, self and the world on the cross, we are an open vessel for Him to work and to express Himself, for He is our life. He is a part of our life.
How do we do that? Through faith, through prayer, through a close relationship with Christ, we focus on Him and ask Him, could Thou please put self on the cross and nail him solid? Could Thou please put this part of the world that wants to be a part of my life, nail it to the cross?
Is the cross that we carry heavy enough? Today there’s materials that are light and easy to carry – like Styrofoam. It looks good. It looks like we are walking the right way. But you try to nail something to it and it just falls off. So it has to be the cross of Christ. It is something that is heavy. We have to recognize there is self-denial. That there is a cost associated with following Christ. It is putting aside sin, self and the world on a daily basis. But Christ will help us. It is a beautiful thing when He’s in control. That’s when the peace comes. That’s the cross that we come to when we repent.
--Sermon Excerpt: Elder Bro. J.S.
There’s three things that Paul said needs to be nailed to that cross. I’d like to just elaborate for a moment on this cross bearing. Because again, this is another message that is getting lost today. Paul said in Romans 6:6, that, first of all, we have to nail sin to the cross. In Galatians 2:20, Paul said we have to put self on the cross. In Galatians 6:14, he said we have to crucify the world on the cross. Sin, self and the world.
Why? It’s because Jesus wants the focus to be on Him and not on sin, self or the world. When we put sin, self and the world on the cross, we are an open vessel for Him to work and to express Himself, for He is our life. He is a part of our life.
How do we do that? Through faith, through prayer, through a close relationship with Christ, we focus on Him and ask Him, could Thou please put self on the cross and nail him solid? Could Thou please put this part of the world that wants to be a part of my life, nail it to the cross?
Is the cross that we carry heavy enough? Today there’s materials that are light and easy to carry – like Styrofoam. It looks good. It looks like we are walking the right way. But you try to nail something to it and it just falls off. So it has to be the cross of Christ. It is something that is heavy. We have to recognize there is self-denial. That there is a cost associated with following Christ. It is putting aside sin, self and the world on a daily basis. But Christ will help us. It is a beautiful thing when He’s in control. That’s when the peace comes. That’s the cross that we come to when we repent.
--Sermon Excerpt: Elder Bro. J.S.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Even If Alone We Stand
Arm us with Thy true discernment
As Elijah, in these days
When men, led by superstition,
To false idols altars raise.
Let us shun the mere profession
Common in our days and land,
Witnessing a good profession
Even if alone we stand.
--Zion's Harp #175 vs. 6
As Elijah, in these days
When men, led by superstition,
To false idols altars raise.
Let us shun the mere profession
Common in our days and land,
Witnessing a good profession
Even if alone we stand.
--Zion's Harp #175 vs. 6
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Traits of the Self-life
Traits of the Self-life
The following are some of the features and manifestations of the self-life. The Holy Spirit alone can interpret and apply these to your individual case.
As you read, examine yourself in the very presence of God. Are you demonstrating the self-life? It shows itself as:
#1. A spirit of pride. Do you have an exalted feeling because of your success or position, because of your good training or your appearance, or because of your natural gifts and abilities? Do you show an important, independent spirit?
#2. Love of praise. Do you have a secret fondness to be noticed, a love of supremacy? Do you draw attention to yourself in conversation? Does your self swell out when you have had a time to speak or pray in the presence of others?
#3. Stirrings of anger. Are you irritable, and do you cover it over by calling it nervousness or holy indignation? Do you have a touchy spirit, a disposition to resent and retaliate when disapproved of or contradicted? Do you throw sharp words at others?
#4. Self-will. Do you show a stubborn, unteachable spirit? Do you argue? Are you harsh, sarcastic, driving, or demanding? Do you come through as unyielding or headstrong? Do you have a disposition to criticize and pick flaws when you are ignored or decisions don't go your way? Do you have a peevish spirit that loves to be coaxed and humored?
#5. Carnal fear. Are you controlled by a man-fearing spirit, that causes you to shrink from duty? Do you reason around your cross? Are you afraid your commitment to righteousness will cause some prominent person to think less of you? Do you compromise principle to please others?
#6. Jealousy. Do you hide a spirit of envy in your heart? Do you harbor an unpleasant sensation in view of the prosperity and success of another? When someone is more talented or appreciated than you, are you disposed to speak of his faults rather than his virtues?
#7. Dishonesty. Do you evade or cover the truth? Do you hide or minimize your real faults and attempt to leave a better impression of yourself than is strictly true? Do you show false humility? Do you exaggerate, straining the truth? Do you show one face to one person and quite the opposite to another?
#8. Unbelief. Do you demonstrate a spirit of discouragement in times of pressure and opposition? In your heart, is there a lack of quietness and confidence in God, a lack of settled trust? Do you have a disposition to worry and complain in the midst of pain, poverty, or trials that God allows? Are you overanxious about whether situations will turn out all right?
#9. Religious formality. Are you complacent about the lost? Is your relationship with God characterized by dryness and indifference? Does your life lack spiritual power? Do you regularly meet God?
#10. Selfishness. Are you drawn to a love of ease, a catering to your appetites, a repeated hankering for short-lived pleasure? Do your joys and sorrows fluctuate around personal interests? Is there a yearning for money and earthly possessions?
These are some of the traits that generally indicate a carnal heart. By prayer, hold your heart open to the searchlight of God until nothing is hidden. "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." (Psalm 139:23, 24).
The Holy Spirit will enable you, by confession and faith, to bring this self-life to the death. Do not patch over, but be thorough. Nothing else will avail.
Oh, to be saved from my self, dear Lord,
Oh, to be lost in Thee;
Oh, that it might be no more I,
But Christ that lives in me.
"Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me" (Psalm 51:10).
--E. E. Shelhamer, adapted
© Copyright, Christian Light Publications
The following are some of the features and manifestations of the self-life. The Holy Spirit alone can interpret and apply these to your individual case.
As you read, examine yourself in the very presence of God. Are you demonstrating the self-life? It shows itself as:
#1. A spirit of pride. Do you have an exalted feeling because of your success or position, because of your good training or your appearance, or because of your natural gifts and abilities? Do you show an important, independent spirit?
#2. Love of praise. Do you have a secret fondness to be noticed, a love of supremacy? Do you draw attention to yourself in conversation? Does your self swell out when you have had a time to speak or pray in the presence of others?
#3. Stirrings of anger. Are you irritable, and do you cover it over by calling it nervousness or holy indignation? Do you have a touchy spirit, a disposition to resent and retaliate when disapproved of or contradicted? Do you throw sharp words at others?
#4. Self-will. Do you show a stubborn, unteachable spirit? Do you argue? Are you harsh, sarcastic, driving, or demanding? Do you come through as unyielding or headstrong? Do you have a disposition to criticize and pick flaws when you are ignored or decisions don't go your way? Do you have a peevish spirit that loves to be coaxed and humored?
#5. Carnal fear. Are you controlled by a man-fearing spirit, that causes you to shrink from duty? Do you reason around your cross? Are you afraid your commitment to righteousness will cause some prominent person to think less of you? Do you compromise principle to please others?
#6. Jealousy. Do you hide a spirit of envy in your heart? Do you harbor an unpleasant sensation in view of the prosperity and success of another? When someone is more talented or appreciated than you, are you disposed to speak of his faults rather than his virtues?
#7. Dishonesty. Do you evade or cover the truth? Do you hide or minimize your real faults and attempt to leave a better impression of yourself than is strictly true? Do you show false humility? Do you exaggerate, straining the truth? Do you show one face to one person and quite the opposite to another?
#8. Unbelief. Do you demonstrate a spirit of discouragement in times of pressure and opposition? In your heart, is there a lack of quietness and confidence in God, a lack of settled trust? Do you have a disposition to worry and complain in the midst of pain, poverty, or trials that God allows? Are you overanxious about whether situations will turn out all right?
#9. Religious formality. Are you complacent about the lost? Is your relationship with God characterized by dryness and indifference? Does your life lack spiritual power? Do you regularly meet God?
#10. Selfishness. Are you drawn to a love of ease, a catering to your appetites, a repeated hankering for short-lived pleasure? Do your joys and sorrows fluctuate around personal interests? Is there a yearning for money and earthly possessions?
These are some of the traits that generally indicate a carnal heart. By prayer, hold your heart open to the searchlight of God until nothing is hidden. "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." (Psalm 139:23, 24).
The Holy Spirit will enable you, by confession and faith, to bring this self-life to the death. Do not patch over, but be thorough. Nothing else will avail.
Oh, to be saved from my self, dear Lord,
Oh, to be lost in Thee;
Oh, that it might be no more I,
But Christ that lives in me.
"Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me" (Psalm 51:10).
--E. E. Shelhamer, adapted
© Copyright, Christian Light Publications
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Why Do I Drift on a Storm-Tossed Sea?
Why do I drift on a storm-tossed sea,
With neither compass, nor star, nor chart,
When, as I drift, God’s own plan for me
Waits at the door of my slow-trusting heart?
Down from the heavens it drops like a scroll,
Each day a bit will the Master unroll.
Each day a mite of the veil will He lift.
Why do I falter? Why wander and drift?
Drifting, while God’s at the helm to steer;
Groping, when God lays the course so clear;
Swerving, though straight into port I might sail;
Wrecking, when heaven lies just within hail.
Help me, O God, in the plan to believe;
Help me my fragment each day to receive.
Oh, that my will may with Thine have no strife!
God-yielded wills find the God-planned life.
--James McConkey
With neither compass, nor star, nor chart,
When, as I drift, God’s own plan for me
Waits at the door of my slow-trusting heart?
Down from the heavens it drops like a scroll,
Each day a bit will the Master unroll.
Each day a mite of the veil will He lift.
Why do I falter? Why wander and drift?
Drifting, while God’s at the helm to steer;
Groping, when God lays the course so clear;
Swerving, though straight into port I might sail;
Wrecking, when heaven lies just within hail.
Help me, O God, in the plan to believe;
Help me my fragment each day to receive.
Oh, that my will may with Thine have no strife!
God-yielded wills find the God-planned life.
--James McConkey
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Global Warming
Global Warming is one of the most popular topics in today's current events.
We may question the scientific "evidence" which is being advanced, claiming that humans have so much power that they are able to effect change in the earth's atmosphere.
But the interesting truth is that, according to the Scripture, there will be "global warming" some day, by means quite unexpected to most scientists and journalists.
"But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same Word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
"But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
"Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat..."
–II Peter 3:7, 10, 12
Peter then asks us the very pertinent question: "Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness?" (vs. 11)
And the question is answered very clearly in the remainder of the chapter: "Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.
"Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." (vs. 14, 17-18).
We may question the scientific "evidence" which is being advanced, claiming that humans have so much power that they are able to effect change in the earth's atmosphere.
But the interesting truth is that, according to the Scripture, there will be "global warming" some day, by means quite unexpected to most scientists and journalists.
"But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same Word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
"But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
"Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat..."
–II Peter 3:7, 10, 12
Peter then asks us the very pertinent question: "Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness?" (vs. 11)
And the question is answered very clearly in the remainder of the chapter: "Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.
"Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." (vs. 14, 17-18).
True Christians or Anti-Christians
Now as is the seed of the Word, so also the fruit that comes forth of it, and the fruit declares the seed. If men are ungodly, it is proof that they have a falsified gospel, have heard an anti-Christian teacher and accordingly are deceived. But if holy and godly and just and conform to the example and likeness of Jesus Christ Who came for that purpose, it is proof that they have heard and believed the true gospel.
We have now to look upon and take into consideration not the populace or most people, for they are always on the broad way to destruction and only few are on the narrow way to life everlasting. So today, all around us, the world is full of anti-Christians. True Christians who conform to Christ and who follow Him in mind and life as children of God reborn of the seed of His word are indeed scarce and they are afraid to accept anything new, i.e. anything that the spirit of anti-Christ (the lie) has taught and propagated in the world since the apostles' time.
Even in his time, by saying that "many deceivers are entered into the world," John meant neither the Jews nor the Greeks (for they confess not as and for themselves Jesus Christ come in the flesh). John came to know in the church of Christ itself the nature or character of false teachers who practised deception with the gospel.
--S.H. Froehlich
Excerpt: Epistles of John Volume IV
We have now to look upon and take into consideration not the populace or most people, for they are always on the broad way to destruction and only few are on the narrow way to life everlasting. So today, all around us, the world is full of anti-Christians. True Christians who conform to Christ and who follow Him in mind and life as children of God reborn of the seed of His word are indeed scarce and they are afraid to accept anything new, i.e. anything that the spirit of anti-Christ (the lie) has taught and propagated in the world since the apostles' time.
Even in his time, by saying that "many deceivers are entered into the world," John meant neither the Jews nor the Greeks (for they confess not as and for themselves Jesus Christ come in the flesh). John came to know in the church of Christ itself the nature or character of false teachers who practised deception with the gospel.
--S.H. Froehlich
Excerpt: Epistles of John Volume IV
Monday, May 18, 2009
Are We Ready?
"So the question is: Are we ready? Ready for the sounding of the trumpet? Ready for the appearance of Jesus Christ? Does it cause fear and trembling? Or will there be rejoicing with outstretched arms to reach this Saviour who died for us and shed His blood that we would have a hope?"
--Sermon Excerpt: Bro. P.S.
Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. --Matthew 24:44
Do you think it will be today? Do you think it will be this week?
We only know in the hour when we think not -- the Lord will return!
Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.
Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.
--Matthew 24:42, 46
--Sermon Excerpt: Bro. P.S.
Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. --Matthew 24:44
Do you think it will be today? Do you think it will be this week?
We only know in the hour when we think not -- the Lord will return!
Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.
Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.
--Matthew 24:42, 46
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Stony Places
"Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower...
But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended."
--Matthew 13:18, 20-21
It has often struck me that this Scripture does not say how long "a while" is.
Is it a few months? A year? Five years? 10 or 20 years?
By not quoting a specific time frame, the Scripture implies that this scenario can be fulfilled at any time in our lives.
How dismaying to think that after a while of receiving God's Word with joy and seeming faithfulness, we would become unfruitful because, deeper down, our heart is stony! We must put forth all effort to keep our hearts softened, tilled with the plowshare of God's Word, and our roots deep in Him at all times.
And when tribulation or persecution arises (as they surely will, for "all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution" --II Tim. 3:12), then we must pray diligently to understand God's Heart and Purpose that we not become offended and leave Him.
"For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them." --II Peter 2:21
But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended."
--Matthew 13:18, 20-21
It has often struck me that this Scripture does not say how long "a while" is.
Is it a few months? A year? Five years? 10 or 20 years?
By not quoting a specific time frame, the Scripture implies that this scenario can be fulfilled at any time in our lives.
How dismaying to think that after a while of receiving God's Word with joy and seeming faithfulness, we would become unfruitful because, deeper down, our heart is stony! We must put forth all effort to keep our hearts softened, tilled with the plowshare of God's Word, and our roots deep in Him at all times.
And when tribulation or persecution arises (as they surely will, for "all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution" --II Tim. 3:12), then we must pray diligently to understand God's Heart and Purpose that we not become offended and leave Him.
"For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them." --II Peter 2:21
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Great Trials = Great Faith
Great Faith that Smiles is Born of Great Trials
It's easy to say "in God we trust"
When life is radiant and fair,
But the test of faith is only found
When there are burdens to bear --
For our claim to faith in the sunshine
Is really no faith at all,
For when roads are smooth and days are bright
Our need for God is so small,
And no one discovers the fulness
Or the greatness of God's love
Unless they have walked in the darkness
With only a Light from Above --
For the faith to endure whatever comes
Is born of sorrow and trials,
And strengthened only by discipline
And nurtured by self-denials --
So be not disheartened by troubles,
For trials are the building blocks
On which to erect a fortress of faith,
Secure on God's ageless rocks.
--Helen Steiner Rice
It's easy to say "in God we trust"
When life is radiant and fair,
But the test of faith is only found
When there are burdens to bear --
For our claim to faith in the sunshine
Is really no faith at all,
For when roads are smooth and days are bright
Our need for God is so small,
And no one discovers the fulness
Or the greatness of God's love
Unless they have walked in the darkness
With only a Light from Above --
For the faith to endure whatever comes
Is born of sorrow and trials,
And strengthened only by discipline
And nurtured by self-denials --
So be not disheartened by troubles,
For trials are the building blocks
On which to erect a fortress of faith,
Secure on God's ageless rocks.
--Helen Steiner Rice
Earnestly Contend for the Faith
"Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints." -Jude 3
Brethren, there is a doctrine that is quickly creeping in upon us that we need to stand up and fight against. The word ‘contend’ means fight. We don’t fight in a carnal, earthly nature. But we fight clothed with the fruits of the Holy Spirit, brethren. We don’t contend like the world contends. But we contend in the fruits of the Spirit.
But it says we need to earnestly contend. And, I’ll tell you, some of those doctrines that are coming in … the faith that we are losing is that faith of holiness and sanctification in a believer’s life. That’s something that we are quickly losing. And if we’re not careful, if we do not stand up as brothers and sisters and earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints, it’s going to be gone. And the thing that we’ve taken for granted, our children are not even going to know it ever even existed. Because one generation loses it, and then the next generation … it’s gone. Until there is a renewal, until the Lord’s Spirit comes back upon the people, as He did so many times.
But, brethren, it says here we need to earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. That there is not – as is being commonly promoted today – that you can live in the world and that you can still live in the church. That you can live in the world and still be a Christian.
Brethren, that’s not the faith that was once delivered to the saints. And we need to take a stance as brothers and sisters and we need to fight against those false doctrines. Not fighting in the sense of the way that the world does it. But we need to fight with the Scripture. We need to have the Sword of the Spirit which is the Word. Because this doctrine that is coming in that we can be a part of the world and part of the church is false. We cannot be a part of the world and a part of the church.
--Sermon Excerpt: Bro. D.D.
Brethren, there is a doctrine that is quickly creeping in upon us that we need to stand up and fight against. The word ‘contend’ means fight. We don’t fight in a carnal, earthly nature. But we fight clothed with the fruits of the Holy Spirit, brethren. We don’t contend like the world contends. But we contend in the fruits of the Spirit.
But it says we need to earnestly contend. And, I’ll tell you, some of those doctrines that are coming in … the faith that we are losing is that faith of holiness and sanctification in a believer’s life. That’s something that we are quickly losing. And if we’re not careful, if we do not stand up as brothers and sisters and earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints, it’s going to be gone. And the thing that we’ve taken for granted, our children are not even going to know it ever even existed. Because one generation loses it, and then the next generation … it’s gone. Until there is a renewal, until the Lord’s Spirit comes back upon the people, as He did so many times.
But, brethren, it says here we need to earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. That there is not – as is being commonly promoted today – that you can live in the world and that you can still live in the church. That you can live in the world and still be a Christian.
Brethren, that’s not the faith that was once delivered to the saints. And we need to take a stance as brothers and sisters and we need to fight against those false doctrines. Not fighting in the sense of the way that the world does it. But we need to fight with the Scripture. We need to have the Sword of the Spirit which is the Word. Because this doctrine that is coming in that we can be a part of the world and part of the church is false. We cannot be a part of the world and a part of the church.
--Sermon Excerpt: Bro. D.D.
Friday, May 15, 2009
There's A Reason
For every burden that we bear,
For every sorrow, every care,
There’s a reason.
For every grief that bows the head,
For every teardrop that is shed,
There’s a reason.
For every hurt, for every plight,
For every lonely pain-racked night,
There’s a reason.
But if we trust God as we should,
All must work out for our good.
He knows the reason.
--Author Unknown
For every sorrow, every care,
There’s a reason.
For every grief that bows the head,
For every teardrop that is shed,
There’s a reason.
For every hurt, for every plight,
For every lonely pain-racked night,
There’s a reason.
But if we trust God as we should,
All must work out for our good.
He knows the reason.
--Author Unknown
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
How Much Time is in The Hourglass?
The time flies on, and death draws nigh;
Unite us, Lord, with Thee on high!
Prepare us now to live with Thee
For ever in eternity!
-Zion's Harp #188 vs. 1
Time is kind of an expanse. It is a period during which actions take place or something occurs. If you ever think about time, in one sense we could consider it our most limited resource. If you ever think about it, you can't buy time. You can't trade anyone for time. You can't barter for time. Every day God gives us twenty-four precious hours and it will be consumed. When that day is gone, it's gone for good and we can't recover it.
Time is like we can picture that hourglass with little grains of sand in it that fall through. Once they flow through that little hourglass, they are never recovered. You can't put them back. It's like the second hand on this little clock on the pulpit here that continues to move. Every second that goes past is gone forever. It will never ever be recovered.
So every one of us have some supply of time; some supply of little grains of sand that is falling through the glass. The thing is that none of us know what our supply is. None of us can see our own hourglass and know how much time we have.
--Sermon Excerpt: Bro. D.S.
Unite us, Lord, with Thee on high!
Prepare us now to live with Thee
For ever in eternity!
-Zion's Harp #188 vs. 1
Time is kind of an expanse. It is a period during which actions take place or something occurs. If you ever think about time, in one sense we could consider it our most limited resource. If you ever think about it, you can't buy time. You can't trade anyone for time. You can't barter for time. Every day God gives us twenty-four precious hours and it will be consumed. When that day is gone, it's gone for good and we can't recover it.
Time is like we can picture that hourglass with little grains of sand in it that fall through. Once they flow through that little hourglass, they are never recovered. You can't put them back. It's like the second hand on this little clock on the pulpit here that continues to move. Every second that goes past is gone forever. It will never ever be recovered.
So every one of us have some supply of time; some supply of little grains of sand that is falling through the glass. The thing is that none of us know what our supply is. None of us can see our own hourglass and know how much time we have.
--Sermon Excerpt: Bro. D.S.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Sermons We See
Sermons We See
I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day;
I’d rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way.
The eye’s a better pupil and more willing than the ear,
Fine counsel is confusing, but example’s always clear;
And the best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds,
For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.
I soon can learn to do it if you’ll let me see it done;
I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run.
And the lecture you deliver may be very wise and true,
But I’d rather get my lessons by observing what you do;
For I might misunderstand you and the high advice you give,
But there’s no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.
When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind.
When a weaker brother stumbles and a strong man stays behind
Just to see if he can help him, then the wish grows strong in me
To become as big and thoughtful as I know that friend to be.
And all travelers can witness that the best of guides today
Is not the one who tells them, but the one who shows the way.
One good man teaches many, men believe what they behold;
One deed of kindness noticed is worth forty that are told.
Who stands with men of honor learns to hold his honor dear,
For right living speaks a language which to every one is clear.
Though an able speaker charms me with his eloquence, I say,
I’d rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day.
--Edgar Guest
I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day;
I’d rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way.
The eye’s a better pupil and more willing than the ear,
Fine counsel is confusing, but example’s always clear;
And the best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds,
For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.
I soon can learn to do it if you’ll let me see it done;
I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run.
And the lecture you deliver may be very wise and true,
But I’d rather get my lessons by observing what you do;
For I might misunderstand you and the high advice you give,
But there’s no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.
When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind.
When a weaker brother stumbles and a strong man stays behind
Just to see if he can help him, then the wish grows strong in me
To become as big and thoughtful as I know that friend to be.
And all travelers can witness that the best of guides today
Is not the one who tells them, but the one who shows the way.
One good man teaches many, men believe what they behold;
One deed of kindness noticed is worth forty that are told.
Who stands with men of honor learns to hold his honor dear,
For right living speaks a language which to every one is clear.
Though an able speaker charms me with his eloquence, I say,
I’d rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day.
--Edgar Guest
Stand Fast in the Lord
"I beseech Euodias and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord (Phil. 4:2)
Beloved, if there is ever a time to hold fast, it is today. Stand fast with the same mind, the same thinking, the same faith, the same love and the same fellowship. Be the same!
Why is it today that people can repent and become a member of the church and all of a sudden they are dissatisfied and unhappy? What is wrong? What happened to the likemindedness? The same mind? Paul was telling them to be of the same mind in the Lord.
Oh, yes, those that depart from the faith will say they are not leaving the Lord. Aren't they?
Stand fast in the Lord and be of the same mind in the Lord. It is in the Lord, and once we become in the Lord, how can we depart from something if we are not in it? If men are departing from the faith and the truth, they have to be in it before they can depart from it.
So let's stay in it ... and in the same mind. Stand fast in the Lord.
The Lord means everything to me. Doesn't He to you? Without Him, we can do nothing. With Him, we can do everything. Without Him, we are lost. With Him we are saved. We can't really emphasize enough the importance of that truth. Let's not waver. Let's be steadfast and unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord for we know that our labor is not in vain in the Lord. (I Cor. 15:58).
--Sermon Excerpt: Bro. C.G.
Beloved, if there is ever a time to hold fast, it is today. Stand fast with the same mind, the same thinking, the same faith, the same love and the same fellowship. Be the same!
Why is it today that people can repent and become a member of the church and all of a sudden they are dissatisfied and unhappy? What is wrong? What happened to the likemindedness? The same mind? Paul was telling them to be of the same mind in the Lord.
Oh, yes, those that depart from the faith will say they are not leaving the Lord. Aren't they?
Stand fast in the Lord and be of the same mind in the Lord. It is in the Lord, and once we become in the Lord, how can we depart from something if we are not in it? If men are departing from the faith and the truth, they have to be in it before they can depart from it.
So let's stay in it ... and in the same mind. Stand fast in the Lord.
The Lord means everything to me. Doesn't He to you? Without Him, we can do nothing. With Him, we can do everything. Without Him, we are lost. With Him we are saved. We can't really emphasize enough the importance of that truth. Let's not waver. Let's be steadfast and unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord for we know that our labor is not in vain in the Lord. (I Cor. 15:58).
--Sermon Excerpt: Bro. C.G.
Encouragement to Faith's Battle
Who, then, would not from this Babel,
From this world's confusion flee?
There to rest in Zion's pastures,
Its glad citizen to be?
There we shall be out of danger,
'Neath the Father's safe retreat;
And we'll find on that blest morning
Heaven's bliss for strife and heat.
Cheer up, then, and strive, ye ransomed,
In this toilsome, trying time;
God will comfort and reward us
With eternal rest sublime!
Only he who is victorious
Shall the crown of life receive;
Then prevail in prayerful watching,
Love, endure, hope and believe!
-Zion's Harp #51 vs. 6&7
From this world's confusion flee?
There to rest in Zion's pastures,
Its glad citizen to be?
There we shall be out of danger,
'Neath the Father's safe retreat;
And we'll find on that blest morning
Heaven's bliss for strife and heat.
Cheer up, then, and strive, ye ransomed,
In this toilsome, trying time;
God will comfort and reward us
With eternal rest sublime!
Only he who is victorious
Shall the crown of life receive;
Then prevail in prayerful watching,
Love, endure, hope and believe!
-Zion's Harp #51 vs. 6&7
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Change
The word "change" is very popular these days. We have only to look at the last presidential election to see that. It was evident that some people did not even understand the true beliefs of the candidate they were supporting, only that they were supporting "change." And even though they didn't realize what "changes" would occur, they voted for "change," simply for the sake of "change."
This mindset has its impact upon the church as well. Among certain believers, there is also a compulsion for "change." An assault is being carried out that purposes to change the Scriptural way of life which has endured for generations. Because the culture of the world around us is changing, we are told that believers are compelled to change also for our spiritual lives to be relevant.
But what says the Scripture?
"For I am the LORD, I change not" -Malachi 3:6
God, His Word and His expectations of mankind have not changed throughout thousands of years and many varied cultures.
"My son, fear thou the Lord and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change: For their calamity shall rise suddenly; and who knoweth the ruin of them both?" -Proverbs 24:21-22
"Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever." And then, in the very next verse, the Scripture warns us: "Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines." --Hebrews 13:8-9
The change that God delights in is that which occurs when we surrender our filthy, sinful hearts and lives to Him in repentance. HE then changes us through conversion and baptism to become a new creature in Christ and we live a radically changed life of sanctification and holiness by His grace. And, if we are submissive to Him, He changes us day by day through trials and persecutions to mold us more into His image. We grow in love and fellowship with one another as we open our hearts to the changes God makes in us as He fashions our lives.
"That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ" -Ephesians 4:14-15
Until the moment comes for our final change!
We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump... -I Corinthians 15:51-52
This mindset has its impact upon the church as well. Among certain believers, there is also a compulsion for "change." An assault is being carried out that purposes to change the Scriptural way of life which has endured for generations. Because the culture of the world around us is changing, we are told that believers are compelled to change also for our spiritual lives to be relevant.
But what says the Scripture?
"For I am the LORD, I change not" -Malachi 3:6
God, His Word and His expectations of mankind have not changed throughout thousands of years and many varied cultures.
"My son, fear thou the Lord and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change: For their calamity shall rise suddenly; and who knoweth the ruin of them both?" -Proverbs 24:21-22
"Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever." And then, in the very next verse, the Scripture warns us: "Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines." --Hebrews 13:8-9
The change that God delights in is that which occurs when we surrender our filthy, sinful hearts and lives to Him in repentance. HE then changes us through conversion and baptism to become a new creature in Christ and we live a radically changed life of sanctification and holiness by His grace. And, if we are submissive to Him, He changes us day by day through trials and persecutions to mold us more into His image. We grow in love and fellowship with one another as we open our hearts to the changes God makes in us as He fashions our lives.
"That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ" -Ephesians 4:14-15
Until the moment comes for our final change!
We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump... -I Corinthians 15:51-52
Speak Often One to Another
Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.
And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.
Malachi 3:16-17
And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.
Malachi 3:16-17
Friday, May 8, 2009
Warning for the Sheep
‘Twas a Sheep, Not A Lamb
‘Twas a sheep, not a lamb, that strayed away,
In the parable Jesus told---
A grown-up sheep that had gone astray
From the ninety and nine in the fold.
Out in the meadows, out in the cold,
‘Twas a sheep the good shepherd sought,
And back in the flock, safe into the fold,
‘Twas a sheep the good shepherd brought.
And why for the sheep should we earnestly long,
And as earnestly hope and pray?
Because there is danger, if they go wrong,
They will lead the young lambs astray.
For the lambs will follow the sheep, you know,
Wherever the sheep may stray:
If the sheep go wrong, it will not be long
‘Til the lambs are as wrong as they.
And so with the sheep we earnestly plead,
For the sake of the lambs today:
If the lambs are lost, what a terrible cost
The sheep will have to pay!
- Minnie Lee Bovender
‘Twas a sheep, not a lamb, that strayed away,
In the parable Jesus told---
A grown-up sheep that had gone astray
From the ninety and nine in the fold.
Out in the meadows, out in the cold,
‘Twas a sheep the good shepherd sought,
And back in the flock, safe into the fold,
‘Twas a sheep the good shepherd brought.
And why for the sheep should we earnestly long,
And as earnestly hope and pray?
Because there is danger, if they go wrong,
They will lead the young lambs astray.
For the lambs will follow the sheep, you know,
Wherever the sheep may stray:
If the sheep go wrong, it will not be long
‘Til the lambs are as wrong as they.
And so with the sheep we earnestly plead,
For the sake of the lambs today:
If the lambs are lost, what a terrible cost
The sheep will have to pay!
- Minnie Lee Bovender
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Two Witnesses
And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.
These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.
And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed.
These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.
And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.
And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.
And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves.
And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.
And after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.
And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them. –Revelation 11:3-12
Two hundred years ago, it was inconceivable how this Scripture would be fulfilled. To those who relied on mail delivery as their only means of long-distance communication, it was impossible to foresee how people of all nations could, all at the same time, see the bodies of God’s two witnesses for three and a half days. Today, of course, with mass communication, we can clearly understand how this can occur – through the Internet, webcam, TV, cell phones, etc.
Dear ones, we may very well be trembling on the brink of the fulfillment of these prophecies. Let’s exhort one another to more faithfulness and obedience to God and His Word.
And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. –Luke 21:28
These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.
And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed.
These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.
And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.
And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.
And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves.
And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.
And after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.
And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them. –Revelation 11:3-12
Two hundred years ago, it was inconceivable how this Scripture would be fulfilled. To those who relied on mail delivery as their only means of long-distance communication, it was impossible to foresee how people of all nations could, all at the same time, see the bodies of God’s two witnesses for three and a half days. Today, of course, with mass communication, we can clearly understand how this can occur – through the Internet, webcam, TV, cell phones, etc.
Dear ones, we may very well be trembling on the brink of the fulfillment of these prophecies. Let’s exhort one another to more faithfulness and obedience to God and His Word.
And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. –Luke 21:28
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Comfort in Distress
Though the tears and sorrows often
Be thy food and daily drink;
And thy sighs and lamentations
With thy songs and praises link;
Grief and envy press thy heart,
And thy earthly goods depart;
Zion, do not fear nor waver!
Thou shalt see God's help and favor.
If with anguish thou art shaken,
If men bind and torture thee,
Thou wilt never be forsaken--
Think upon eternity!
Stand in faith and do not fear,
For thy Lord is ever near.
Zion, let His hand direct thee;
He will strengthen and protect thee!
Then rejoice! The end is coming
And the evening draweth nigh;
Yield to God in true submission;
He will free you from on high.
For your sorrow, grief, and strife,
He'll bestow the crown of life;
God, thy shield, will watch and cherish;
But the world in shame will perish.
-Zion's Harp #38 vs. 4-6
Be thy food and daily drink;
And thy sighs and lamentations
With thy songs and praises link;
Grief and envy press thy heart,
And thy earthly goods depart;
Zion, do not fear nor waver!
Thou shalt see God's help and favor.
If with anguish thou art shaken,
If men bind and torture thee,
Thou wilt never be forsaken--
Think upon eternity!
Stand in faith and do not fear,
For thy Lord is ever near.
Zion, let His hand direct thee;
He will strengthen and protect thee!
Then rejoice! The end is coming
And the evening draweth nigh;
Yield to God in true submission;
He will free you from on high.
For your sorrow, grief, and strife,
He'll bestow the crown of life;
God, thy shield, will watch and cherish;
But the world in shame will perish.
-Zion's Harp #38 vs. 4-6
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Demas
Demas was a believer whom the Apostle Paul lovingly called a "fellowlabourer." He conveyed greetings to the brethren in Colosse from Demas.
"Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers." -Philemon
"Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you." -Colossians 4:14
Demas' name appears one other time in the Scriptures. It is when Paul is nearing the end of his life. In II Timothy 4, he writes that he has "fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness." Then he urges Timothy to come to him soon. "For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica ... Only Luke is with me." --II Timothy 4:10-11
Can we feel the grief and sorrow in the Apostle Paul's words when he writes of this dear brother, a former fellow-laborer, who has been deceived into forsaking the cause of Christ through returning to the love of the present world? No doubt the Apostle Paul felt the loss of Demas' prayers and companionship very keenly as, at that time, he was a prisoner for his faith in Christ and soon would be martyred.
Can we not identify with Paul's grief? When those we love and were formerly joined together with in the cause of Christ have again fallen in love with this present world and have turned back to sin or to the broad way, it brings deep sorrow. We fear lest we become deceived likewise.
"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him." --I John 2:15 & 17
We cannot love the present world and also love God. Constantly we must remind ourselves that our hearts and our treasure are in Heaven. We must exhort each other that we do not love this world, its pleasures and treasures so much that we, like Demas, forsake Christ and the brethren who are counting on us to uphold them and pray for them in their trials.
"Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers." -Philemon
"Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you." -Colossians 4:14
Demas' name appears one other time in the Scriptures. It is when Paul is nearing the end of his life. In II Timothy 4, he writes that he has "fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness." Then he urges Timothy to come to him soon. "For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica ... Only Luke is with me." --II Timothy 4:10-11
Can we feel the grief and sorrow in the Apostle Paul's words when he writes of this dear brother, a former fellow-laborer, who has been deceived into forsaking the cause of Christ through returning to the love of the present world? No doubt the Apostle Paul felt the loss of Demas' prayers and companionship very keenly as, at that time, he was a prisoner for his faith in Christ and soon would be martyred.
Can we not identify with Paul's grief? When those we love and were formerly joined together with in the cause of Christ have again fallen in love with this present world and have turned back to sin or to the broad way, it brings deep sorrow. We fear lest we become deceived likewise.
"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him." --I John 2:15 & 17
We cannot love the present world and also love God. Constantly we must remind ourselves that our hearts and our treasure are in Heaven. We must exhort each other that we do not love this world, its pleasures and treasures so much that we, like Demas, forsake Christ and the brethren who are counting on us to uphold them and pray for them in their trials.
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