What The Bible Says

Vol. VI - No. 26 / May 5, 2024

THE LORD'S CHURCH IS NOT...

    The Lord’s church is not a social institution! Many institutions of this world cater to the social side of man, emphasizing one particular aspect over another. The church does not have the responsibility to run orphans homes, colleges, homes for unwed mothers, etc. The church is to show forth God's wisdom. Ephesians 2:10 teaches "To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God." The church is to uphold and support the truth. 1 Tim. 3:15 says, "But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth." We know that Christ's blood was shed to purchase the church (Acts 20:28) . Yet, not one drop of His blood was necessary to purchase a social institution where the physical needs of mankind are made the primary consideration. 

    The Lord’s church is not a recreation center! You cannot come together as the church to enjoy a game of basketball as you might do so at the YMCA. The church assembles to worship God in spirit and in truth (Heb. 10:25; John 4:24). Where is Bible authority, either expressed or implied, for the church of our Lord to have ball teams, pool tables, and such like? 

    The Lord’s church is not a material building! Too many people today worship some building or structure. The church of the New Testament is made up, not of stone or wood, but of "living stones". Not a material building but a “spiritual house". (1 Peter 2:5) . The church, then, are the pure, dedicated Christians that make up the assembly. When such statements as, " ...when ye are gathered together... " (1 Cor. 5:4) and "If therefore the whole church be come together into one place... "(1 Cor. 14:23) are read, we can understand that the church exists only when there is an assemblying together. (Let it also be understood that we are speaking of the church in the sense of the local congregation like that of Corinth, Ephesus, Colossi, and etc. as found in the New Testament.) Therefore, if a church decides to meet in a regular, specified place, that place is NOT the church but only the place where the church meets. 

    The Lord’s church is not one member! Often times, Christians can talk and behave so as to leave the impression that they, as an individual person, are the church. Some may even be quick to quote Matthew 18:20 which says, "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am in the midst of them." and conclude that two or three Christians constitute the church. This is done in an effort to justify many things. Some Christians might want to go away on vacations, fishing trips, trips to visit relatives, and etc. and excuse themselves from assembyling with the church. Yet to soothe their conscience, they might pause long enough on Sunday to pull their car over to the side of the road or drop anchor on their boat to take the Lord's Supper. Some might even simply stay at home with relatives and "worship". I have personally known of this taking place due to sicknesses, funerals, or inclement weather and in more recent times during the Covid pandemic. The question that must be answered is: Is this the church? Certainly, two or three Christians might be all the Christians in a locality. If that is the case, then that number would constitute the church. Yet when I fail to seek out other faithful Christians who are engaged in the work that the Lord has authorized for His church to do, then I am demeaning the church and what the Lord has assigned it to do. The local church is to carry the gospel through teaching and preaching in all the various ways which that can be accomplished, edify and strengthen itself, and see to the needs of its' destitute members. (Ephesians 4:12). That can only come about through an established work in that locality; an established work that has a designated place and time to meet, and a treasury from which it can carry out its God given functions. Surely, can we not see that a family simply passing through, who decides to "worship" and take the Lord's Supper on the side of the road, is not the church which we have described in the New Testament. Neither is the family who decides to stay at home on a given Sunday regardless of the circumstances. The disciples in Troas "came together". Paul knew of them and their whereabouts and was a part with them in their breaking bread on the first day of the week. (Acts 20:6,7). Can we not be content with this Bible example, and stop finding excuses and saying, "But what if ... "? Can we not see that we are reducing divine things down to our own level, when we try to make things convenient for ourselves? No, I am not the church. (1 Cor. 12:12-14 “For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. For in fact the body is not one member but many.”). I am a member of the church. (v. 20). I trust that we can see the difference and adjust our thinking and actions accordingly. 

    The Lord’s church is not a denomination! A denomination is a group that is a part of another group. The Lord's church is not a religious sect. If it were, it would be no better than churches which men have established after their own creeds and doctrines. Thus all churches would be right and a person could, indeed, "just join the church of his choice”.   —E.R. Hall, Jr.

SOME "IFS" AND "WHYS" ABOUT BAPTISM

IF baptism is not necessary to salvation, WHY did Peter say that "baptism doth also now save us”?  (1 Pet. 3:21) 

IF one can be forgiven of his sins without baptism, WHY did Peter command "be baptized… for the remission of your sins”? (Acts 2:38)

IF sins are taken away before baptism, WHY was Saul of Tarsus told by Ananias to "arise, and be baptized and wash away thy sins calling on the name of the Lord”? (Acts 22:16)

IF one is a child of God without being baptized, WHY did Paul say that the Galatians were children of God when they were baptized into Christ?  (Gal. 3:26,27)

IF baptism is of no importance in one's service to God, WHY was Cornelius and his household told to be baptized in water? (Acts 10:48)

IF baptism is not essential to one's salvation, WHY did Jesus say, "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved”?  (Mk. 16:16)

IF one becomes a member of the body of Christ, the church of Christ, without baptism, WHY did Paul write to the Corinthians saying: "by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body”? (1 Cor. 12:13) 

IF baptism is for the remission of sins, to wash away sins, to put one into Christ, a command of God, in order to salvation, WHY will men refuse to obey God in being baptized?

    Paul wrote to the Ephesians and said, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace." 1:7. Jesus shed His blood to redeem us from our sins. 

QUESTION:  Where and at what time did Jesus shed His blood? He shed His blood when He died upon the cross. Paul says that we are baptized into His death (Rom. 6:3,4). He goes on to say in that very same chapter that when we are baptized into Christ, we obey that form of doctrine that is presented in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. (Rom. 6:16-18). So, we urge you to humbly submit your life to Christ by being baptized into Him, into His body, the church of Christ. 
—Cecil F. Cox
The Gospel Power,
Vol. 17, No. 3, March 2010

    When you are told by the attending physician that you have only a little while left to live, you will not regret one moment you have spent in the study of your Bible. After all books are laid aside, this Word will still face you in that great day of judgment! We plead with you to carefully use this sacred volume in this life! It is God's revealed will to you. Don't ignore nor neglect it!

    If we can assist you in the study of God's book, let us know. We would be glad to come into your home and study. We also offer a free Bible correspondence course on our website that you can find on this page. We would welcome the opportunity to study with you.

"And now I commend you to God, and to the Word of His grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them that are santified." (Acts 20:32) 

"What The Bible Says” is e-mailed twice a month. If you know of others who might benefit from the articles contained in this bulletin, we would be glad to have you submit their e-mail addresses and we will include them in the next mailing. If you are receiving this bulletin and do not wish to continue to do so, please e-mail us with your desire to be removed from the mailing list and you will be removed promptly. Continue to the bottom of this page for further instructions as to how you may contact us.
--- E.R. Hall, Jr. 

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES
For The East Albertville Church Of Christ
meeting at
4777 U.S. Highway 431
Albertville, AL 35950
Sunday
Bible Classes …………..….……………     9:30 AM
Morning Worship ……..…….….………  10:30 AM
Evening Worship   …………………........ 5:00 PM
Wednesday
Bible Classes …………..………........... 7:00 PM
 

Radio Program
Sunday
WBSA 93.5 FM/1300 AM …………………………..  8:30 AM
Monday - Saturday
WBSA 93.5 FM/1300 AM ………………………….. 11:15 AM
 

Website: www. EastAlbertville.org

What The Bible Says

Vol. VI - No. 25 / April 21, 2024

DESIRE, WHAT IS YOURS

1 Peter 3:10 “For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile 11 Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.” Do you desire to live a righteous life? THEN: 
1 Peter 2:1 “Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.”
James 4:1 “From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members7 2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. 3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.” 
Proverbs 11:23 “The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.”
Isaiah 26:8 "Yea, in the way of thy judgments, 0 Lord, have we waited for thee; the desire of our soul is to thy name, and to the remembrance of thee. 9 With my soul have I desired thee in the night; yea, with my spirit within me will I seek thee early: for when thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness. “
Proverbs 10:24 “The fear of the wicked, it shall come upon him: but the desire of the righteous shall be granted. 25 As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more: but the righteous is an everlasting foundation.”
Proverbs 10:27 "The fear of the Lord prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.” 
ONE WHO DESIRES THE GRACE, MERCY, AND ALL THE BLESSINGS OF GOD SHOULD BECOME AWARE OF AND USE EVERYTHING THE BIBLE GIVES US TO IMPROVE OURSELVES IN THE SIGHT OF GOD.
Psalm 119:5 “I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies. 5 I made haste, and delayed not to keep thy commandments.”
2 Corinthians 13:5 “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?”  —George Leath

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR THE LORD'S CHURCH?

    If you are you can find it. What you need to be looking for is:
    A church built by Jesus - not Wesley, not Luther, not John the Baptist, or any other man or group of men. (Matthew 16:18 “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”)
    A church named for Christ - not Protestantism, not Catholicism, or any other "-ism" or "schism". (Romans 16:16 “…The churches of Christ greet you.”; Ephesians 3:14,15 “For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,”)
    A church preaching and practicing faith, repentance, confession, and baptism for remission of sins and godly living - not "getting religion” before obeying the gospel and living like the devil between Sundays. (Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”; Romans 10:17 “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”; Luke 13:3,5 “I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. 5 I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.”; Romans 10:10 “For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”; Acts 8:37 “Then Philip said, ‘If you believe with all your heart, you may.’ And he answered and said, ‘I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.’”; 2:38 “Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’'”; Romans 6:3-6 “Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection,”; 2 Peter 1:5-11 “But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, 6 to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, 7 to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. 8 For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; 11 for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”)
    A church entered by being "added" by the Lord when conditions of the new birth - "of water and spirit" - have been met, - not by "joining" or being voted in by members. (John 3:3-5 “Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.’ 4 Nicodemus said to Him, ‘How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?’ 5 Jesus answered, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.’”; Acts 2:37-47 “Please Take Time To Read!”)
    A church continuing "steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers" and singing, - not human creeds, monthly or quarterly communion, denominational programs, and money-raising entertainments, instrumental music, etc. (Acts 2:42 “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.”; Ephesians 5:19 “speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord,”; Colossians 3:16,17 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”; 2 Timothy 3:16,17 “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”)
    A church congregationaly independent in government and discipline presided over by a plurality of elders (bishops, pastors, shepherds: they are the same) - no super organization dictating through popes, priests, presiding bishop, pastor (singular), or "official board". (Acts 14:23 “So when they had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed.”: Titus 1:5-9 “For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you—6 if a man is blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of dissipation or insubordination. 7 For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, 8 but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, 9 holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.”; Acts 20:28-32 “Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. 29 For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. 31 Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears. 32 So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.”; 1 Timothy 2:5 “For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus,”).
    Have you found the Lord's church yet? Have you truly examined the church of Christ in the light of the above scriptures? NO OTHER INSTITUTION CAN BEAR SUCH SCRIPTURAL INVESTIGATION! —E.R. Hall, Jr.

SENTENCE SERMONS

If what you're working for really matters, you'll give it all you've got.
***
"Don't measure yourself by what you have accomplished, but by what you should have accomplished with your ability.”
--John Wooden
***
This is true greatness: to serve unnoticed and to work unseen. 

"What The Bible Says” is e-mailed twice a month. If you know of others who might benefit from the articles contained in this bulletin, we would be glad to have you submit their e-mail addresses and we will include them in the next mailing. If you are receiving this bulletin and do not wish to continue to do so, please e-mail us with your desire to be removed from the mailing list and you will be removed promptly. Continue to the bottom of this page for further instructions as to how you may contact us.
--- E.R. Hall, Jr. 

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES
For The East Albertville Church Of Christ
meeting at
4777 U.S. Highway 431
Albertville, AL 35950
Sunday
Bible Classes …………..….……………     9:30 AM
Morning Worship ……..…….….………  10:30 AM
Evening Worship   …………………........ 5:00 PM
Wednesday
Bible Classes …………..………........... 7:00 PM
 

Radio Program
Sunday
WBSA 93.5 FM/1300 AM …………………………..  8:30 AM
Monday - Saturday
WBSA 93.5 FM/1300 AM ………………………….. 11:15 AM
 

Website: www. EastAlbertville.org

What The Bible Says

Vol. VI - No. 24 / April 7, 2024

GOD'S WAY VERSUS MAN'S WAY

    When it comes to what a person must do to be saved, man's way always conflicts with God's way. Jesus said in Mark 16:16, "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." God's way is for man to believe and be baptized in order to be saved. Man's way is that a person is saved when he believes and can be baptized later thus eliminating the part baptism has in salvation. 

    Acts 2:38 states: "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." God's way is repent and be baptized for the remission of sins. Man's way is to repent and be saved then be baptized.

    Romans 6:2-4 teaches we are dead in sin, buried in baptism, and raised to walk in a new life. This is God's way but man's way teaches we are dead in sin, arise to a new life, and then are baptized. 

    Galatians 3:27 states: "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ." God's way is that we are baptized into Christ. Man's way is that we put on Christ by simply believing and then we are baptized.

    Jesus said in John 3:5, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." God's way is to be born again by water and Spirit. Man's way is to be born again by the Spirit and the water can come later.

    Colossians 2:12 says, "Buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead.” God's way is for the operation of God to take place in baptism. Man's way is for the operation to take place before baptism.

    Not once in these verses or any other verses does God put baptism after the blessing of salvation. God always puts baptism before and thus make baptism a condition of salvation.

    Man presumes to change every verse in God's word that deals with baptism just because it contradicts his own theory.

    Now which way do we believe is the right way: God's or man's? They both cannot be right. Only one of the ways in the scriptures above is right. If you say baptism is not essential to salvation, you will have to say God's way is wrong every time. If you say God’s way is right, you will have to admit that every one not baptized for the remission of sins is still not saved and out of Christ. —E.R. Hall, Jr.

GOOD PEOPLE NEED TO BE SAVED TOO!

    What will be the eternal destiny of good people? By "good" I mean kind, decent, caring, morally upright folks. They may or may not be religious. Nevertheless, you won't find finer folks: your helpful neighbor, your kind friend, your sweet grandmother. It is easy to assume they will be in heaven; indeed, is hard to think anything else. But will that be the case? All we know about anyone's eternal destiny is what God says in Scripture. A case recorded in Acts 10 sheds considerable light on the question.

Good People Need to Be Saved

    The focus of this text is a man named Cornelius. He is pictured in the finest way (vv. 1, 2, 22). He was a devout man, one who feared God. (Fearing God was a technical expression used to denote Gentiles who accepted the Jewish religion in part.) He feared God with all his household, including one of his soldiers (v. 7), indicating that he was spiritually-minded enough to influence others to follow his example. He gave many alms to the Jewish people, not just the token gestures that are the common marks of "generosity." He prayed to God continually. In the story, we find him praying at 3:00 in the afternoon. He was a righteous or just man, dealing fairly with his fellow-man. He was well spoken of by the entire Jewish nation. That would be a remarkable reputation for any man, but is especially so in this case because Cornelius was a Roman centurion!

    Could there be a finer man? How many of us measure up to this description? How many would view Cornelius as lost in sin and headed for hell? That is precisely what he was. As he was praying, an angel appeared to him and gave him a single instruction: "Send to Joppa, and have Simon, who is also called Peter, brought here; and he shall speak words to you by which you will be saved, you and all your household" (11:14-15).

Why Good People Need to Be Saved

    It is almost startling for the Bible to present this man as one in need of salvation. Yet he was. The problem was not his goodness; it was his sin. What sins had he committed? We do not know. But he was guilty of some. All are. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). And the consequence of sin for Cornelius was death. "For the wages of sin is death..." (Romans 6:23). So it is for all. People's "goodness" has nothing to do with their being lost. Sin is the problem.

    What is the solution to sin? Too many think good works will somehow make up for their wrongs. That was not the message Peter brought to Cornelius. Oh, he mentioned the essentiality of doing what is right (v. 35), but that is not enough. Peter preached that peace with God is through Jesus Christ (v. 36), that forgiveness of sins is in His name (v. 43). His sermon spoke of the proofs that Jesus offered to sustain the claim that He alone is the way to God: His miracles (v. 38), especially His resurrection from the dead (vv. 40-42), and countless Old Testament prophecies that He fulfilled (v. 43).

    All have sinned, sin separates us from God, and salvation is only in Christ. These are the facts, no matter what we might like to believe. We must come to grips with them. Our failure to do so explains why we struggle so with the concept of good people being lost.

How Good People Are Saved

    The text identifies four components of Cornelius salvation (and ours):

ONE, he had to hear the gospel. The words by which he and his household would be saved were Peter's message that Jesus died for our sins.

TWO, he had to believe that message, put his trust in Jesus as the means of being right with God. "Of Him all the prophets bear witness that through His name everyone who believes receives forgiveness of sins" (v. 43). This is so foundational that it is often stated as the summary of man's response, just as "grace" is for God's provisions (Ephesians 2:8).

THREE, he had to repent (11:18). Repentance leads to life. It is a change of heart that says I will live as God directs from now on. Of course, to be genuine it must be demonstrated in a change of life. One has not repented who persists in the same sinful way of living.

FOUR, he had to be baptized in water. "...Then Peter answered, 'Surely no one can refuse the water for these to be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we did, can he? And he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ" (vv. 46-48). In his first sermon, Peter explained that baptism is for forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38).

     Knowing what you now know, do you want to stand before the Lord in judgment based solely on your own "goodness," or would you rather be there having accepted His offer of salvation in Christ? —Frank Himmel

SENTENCE SERMONS

You’re always responsible for how you act, no matter how you feel – remember that!
***
Your eternal destiny will not be the result of chance but of choice.
***
Do not misinterpret God's patience for God's permission. 

"What The Bible Says” is e-mailed twice a month. If you know of others who might benefit from the articles contained in this bulletin, we would be glad to have you submit their e-mail addresses and we will include them in the next mailing. If you are receiving this bulletin and do not wish to continue to do so, please e-mail us with your desire to be removed from the mailing list and you will be removed promptly. Continue to the bottom of this page for further instructions as to how you may contact us.
--- E.R. Hall, Jr. 

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES
For The East Albertville Church Of Christ
meeting at
4777 U.S. Highway 431
Albertville, AL 35950
Sunday
Bible Classes …………..….……………     9:30 AM
Morning Worship ……..…….….………  10:30 AM
Evening Worship   …………………........ 5:00 PM
Wednesday
Bible Classes …………..………........... 7:00 PM
 

Radio Program
Sunday
WBSA 93.5 FM/1300 AM …………………………..  8:30 AM
Monday - Saturday
WBSA 93.5 FM/1300 AM ………………………….. 11:15 AM
 

Website: www. EastAlbertville.org

What The Bible Says

Vol. VI - No. 23 / March 24, 2024

THE ENTIRETY OF GOD'S WORD

    Is it alright for religious people to choose which scriptures we prefer between passages that give differing information on a given subject or do we have to harmonize the truth of all passages on a particular subject?

    Let's notice a few scriptures to shed some light. Ps 119:160 says "The entirety of your word is truth ..." Mt 4:4 states " ... It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." We can see from these two passages that no scriptures can be interpreted to put the meaning of one scripture in conflict with another. In Isaiah 28:9-10, our principle is further refined: "Whom will he teach knowledge? And whom will he make to understand the message? ... For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept, Line upon line, line upon line, Here a little, they’re a little."

    Truth is found in searching all of God's word on any subject, finding some here and some there, and building the case by stacking all those lines and precepts upon each other. Proverbs 30:5-6 reads: “Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. Do not add to His words, Lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar.” Rev 22:18 has similar wording and also adds that we are not to "take away from the words of the book", so if we make a point at the expense of excluding other inspired writing; we do it at our own peril. "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." - II Tim 2:15.

    In Jn 12:48, Jesus says, "He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him - the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day." Let us always remember II Tim 3:16: "AII scripture is given by the inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for instruction in righteousness that the man of God may be complete."  —Sid Rowe

CAN WE TRUST THE BIBLE?

    The Bible is the most circulated and read book but it is also the most criticized. Atheists and evolutionist are always calling into question its integrity. Do we have reason to believe (trust) the Bible or is it a case of blind faith, as some are willing to charge?

    This question is of extreme importance for if the Bible is not the Word of God, then faith in the Bible is a hoax. If the Bible is not true then it is a lie and not worth following. This question is also important because if the Bible is not trustworthy, there is no standard of right and wrong. Either the Bible is "INSPIRED" and “INFALLIBLE" or it is not!

    The Bible makes certain claims for itself. It claims to be inspired. 2 Timothy 3:16 says, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God,… ". "Inspiration" means “God breathed". This means the very words themselves are inspired. In 1 Corinthians 2:13 we read: "Which things also we speak, not in words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Spirit teacheth; combining spiritual things with spiritual words.”(ASV). We see in Jeremiah 1:9 further claims of the words themselves being put into the mouths of His servants the prophets: "Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth.” Also the Scriptures claim for themselves to last forever. In Matthew 24:35, Jesus said, "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away." Also read 1 Peter 1:23-25.

    Just claiming to be inspired doesn't make it so. If that be the case, our modern day "faith-healers" would be correct in what they claim. Whenever a claim is made, it must measure up and the same is true for the claims that the Bible makes for itself. The Bible must measure up to its claims with EVIDENCE! If sufficient evidence cannot be given, the Bible is a fraud. If the evidence supports the claims, the Bible is then true and we are accountable for what it teaches.  

    The historical references made by the Bible often come under attack. It must be admitted that Bible history is incomplete but this doesn't take away the infallibility of the Scriptures. The Bible deals with nations and events that have a bearing on God’s plan of redemption therefore every detail of history is not included.

    Quite often the charge is make that the Bible is not scientifically correct. It is true that things in the Bible often run opposite of modern day opinion such as the ongoing controversy involving creation and the THEORY of evolution. A frequent problem with science is that conclusions are quickly reached before all the evidence has been examined. The Bible is not a history textbook nor a science textbook but when references are made they are accurate and reliable. True science has never disproved the Bible. Most certainly neither will theories and opinions disprove it.

    The Bible is truly unique in its continuity. A book containing sixty-six books, it was written over a 1500-1600 year period (40 generations). The Bible was written by forty different inspired men from different social and political backgrounds living on three continents (Asia, Africa, Europe).Yet despite all this, it is truly remarkable in its continuity. The only account to give reason for this is found in 2 Peter 1:20-21: "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”

    The Bible is also unique in its survival. No ancient document is as well substantiated than the Bible. It has more manuscript evidence than any ten pieces of classical literature combined. In fact, to question the authenticity of the Bible is to call into question every ancient writing in existence. For its survival and endurance we have God's promise: "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my word shall not pass away." (Matthew 24:35).

    When all evidence is considered, it is reasonable to conclude that the Bible is what it claims to be: The inspired word of God. There is no reason to doubt its authenticity and it is with confidence that we can defend the integrity of the scriptures. We stand in defense of something that is infinitely precious. —E.R. Hall, Jr.

SENTENCE SERMONS

“Criticism is easy; achievement is more difficult."  --Winston Churchill
***
Some are 'setting on the premises' instead of 'standing on the promises’.
***
Patience: the ability to count down before blasting off.
***
Eternity is a long time to think about what you should have done.
***
Christianity is most often judged by what others see of it in you. 

"What The Bible Says” is e-mailed twice a month. If you know of others who might benefit from the articles contained in this bulletin, we would be glad to have you submit their e-mail addresses and we will include them in the next mailing. If you are receiving this bulletin and do not wish to continue to do so, please e-mail us with your desire to be removed from the mailing list and you will be removed promptly. Continue to the bottom of this page for further instructions as to how you may contact us.
--- E.R. Hall, Jr. 

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES
For The East Albertville Church Of Christ
meeting at
4777 U.S. Highway 431
Albertville, AL 35950
Sunday
Bible Classes …………..….……………     9:30 AM
Morning Worship ……..…….….………  10:30 AM
Evening Worship   …………………........ 5:00 PM
Wednesday
Bible Classes …………..………........... 7:00 PM
 

Radio Program
Sunday
WBSA 93.5 FM/1300 AM …………………………..  8:30 AM
Monday - Saturday
WBSA 93.5 FM/1300 AM ………………………….. 11:15 AM
 

Website: www. EastAlbertville.org

What The Bible Says

Vol. VI - No. 22 / February 25, 2024

TEACHERS ARE QUITTING

    I saw a report that 42 teachers and 8 bus drivers have quit in Orlando County schools in Florida since August of 2023. A report by CNN claims teachers are quitting across the United States in record numbers (May 31, 2023, CNN, see also usatoday.com March 6, 2023). While some teachers quit because of low salaries, the report from Orlando retired teachers is they quit because they are worn down spending excessive amounts of time dealing with students misbehaving.

    When they say students misbehaving, they are not talking about mere talking or lack of attention in the class, the increase in violence among students and toward teachers and bus drivers is increasing. One former teacher expressed how, in his school, a student could curse the teacher or even the principal without consequences. He went on to say that it got to the point where he could not wait for weekends and holidays to get away from the stress and pressure of teaching under these circumstances.

    It is interesting to listen to the "experts" try to explain what is wrong. One school psychologist claimed that some students lash out because of "a lack of school supplies." She did say, "Some of it might be a problem at home, but they would have to investigate that further." Yes, right... 
I am no psychologist, but I can tell you misbehavior is not caused by a lack of school supplies! I put the blame squarely on the shoulders of fathers first, then mothers.

    Ephesians 6:4 says, "And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord." As the head of the wife and leader of the family (1 Corinthians 11: 3), the father answers for the behavior of his children. Remember the days when the school would report to the father of the family? Fathers must get their wives (and grandparents) on board with a plan to consistently train the children in the way of the Lord, and to correct and discipline the children when they get out of line.

    Discipline includes correcting by sitting down and discussing a matter and it can include physical punishment. The Bible does not mince words on the matter of physical correction of children when it is necessary.  Proverbs 22:15 in the ESV says, "Folly is bound up in the heart of the child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him." The purpose of discipline is to create an orderly and behaved attitude in the child. Discipline will make life easier for parents, the child, and everyone else! "The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother" (Proverbs 29:15, ESV). The promise is rest for the parents who are consistent with disciplining their children. "Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart" (Proverbs 29:17, ESV). The fact is that parents who allow children to go uncontrolled and unrestrained hate their children! "He who spares his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him promptly" (Proverbs 13:24, NKJV).They hate them because they fail to turn them away from attitudes and behaviors which will result in disappointment and trouble in this life and, eventually, land them in a devil's hell! Parents only have a small window of time to set their children on the proper path for life. Correction must be done promptly and when the offense happens (Ecclesiastes 8:11).

    Parents who follow certain modern methods fail to make "believers" out of their misbehaving children, refusing to follow the "old paths of discipline." I do not know everything about new child rearing methods, but from what I am seeing, it does not resemble the Bible method of discipling children!

    Only in this "new age," about the last 15 to 20 years, have we heard about school shootings, students being confused about their gender, increasing unpatriotic behavior and extreme disrespect for parents and teachers. What has changed? God is not welcomed in the schools and not in the many homes today. The structure of the home has certainly gone Hollywood! Because of moral decay such as having children out of wedlock and easy divorce, the home is often governed by a single parent or adults living together. We are seeing increasingly among the married a home that functions as a democracy. God did not set the home up to be a democracy (Genesis 3:16; Ephesians 5:22).

    What is needed is responsible fathers who will wear the pants again. Those claiming to be Christians must work at structuring the home after God's order. Husbands and wives cannot function in the same roles and the family succeed at being "God's home." Children need order in their home where the father is a leader and authority in the home who teaches and corrects as needed. Mothers need to be on board with their husbands and work together working for the same positive outcome for the children (Ephesians 5:22-6:4; Titus 2:5). What is that outcome? The outcome should be responsible, polite, and orderly children who will be an asset to the school and society in general (Proverbs 22:6). Most of all, parents should work hard to bring up children who will have a firm belief in God and follow Jesus Christ (Ephesians 6:4).

    Lack of proper training in morals, peers, social media, television, and selfishness have contributed to unruly and sometimes violent children. The bottom line is fault lies in the dysfunctional home and the laissez-faire style of bringing up children. It is time to restore the home to God's original order. When children have homes with fathers and mothers who love them, teach them to respect others, and who discipline them, children will function better in schools, follow government laws, and be responsible adults. Parents are you disciplining your children? —Michael R. Baggett

IS THE SABBATH STILL BINDING TODAY?

    The Bible teaches the Sabbath was a day of rest for the Jews (Deuteronomy 5:13-14; Exodus 34: 27-28). God never gave this command to the Gentiles. However there are those who believe and teach the Sabbath is to be observed by Christians today.

    During the first 2500 years of man's existence there was no Sabbath day observance. The first mention of the word is found after the children of lsrael (Jews) had been led out of bondage in Egypt by Moses. In fact, the command to observe the Sabbath was not given until Moses received the ten commandments on Mount Sinai (Exodus 20). The fourth of those commandments stated the law concerning the Sabbath. Nehemiah 9: 13-14 also confirms that it was on Mount Sinai that God made known unto them the Sabbath.

    When we understand the purpose of the Sabbath, it should also help us to realize it is not for us to observe today. In Deuteronomy 5:15 we read that God gave the Sabbath to the Israelites (Jews) for them to remember their bondage in Egypt. Also in verses 1-3 of this chapter, we see language that could be no simpler in explaining the Sabbath had not been observed in previous times.

    The Sabbath is not binding today. When Christ died on the cross, the law given on Mount Sinai was removed (Colossians 2:14-16). The law we have today, the New Testament, is a better covenant based upon better promises (Hebrews 8:6). For anyone to want to go back under the Old Testament and bind laws and commandments today, the Bible teaches they have “fallen from grace” (Galatians 5:4). —E.R. Hall, Jr.

SENTENCE SERMONS

If we understood the power of our thoughts, we would guard them more closely.
***
Treat each day as your last; one day you will be right.
***
Whatever is begun in anger ends in shame.
***
No matter how big your house is, how recent your car is, or how big your bank account is — your grave will always be the same size. Stay humble.

"What The Bible Says” is e-mailed twice a month. If you know of others who might benefit from the articles contained in this bulletin, we would be glad to have you submit their e-mail addresses and we will include them in the next mailing. If you are receiving this bulletin and do not wish to continue to do so, please e-mail us with your desire to be removed from the mailing list and you will be removed promptly. Continue to the bottom of this page for further instructions as to how you may contact us.
--- E.R. Hall, Jr. 

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES
For The East Albertville Church Of Christ
meeting at
4777 U.S. Highway 431
Albertville, AL 35950
Sunday
Bible Classes …………..….……………     9:30 AM
Morning Worship ……..…….….………  10:30 AM
Evening Worship   …………………........ 5:00 PM
Wednesday
Bible Classes …………..………........... 7:00 PM
 

Radio Program
Sunday
WBSA 93.5 FM/1300 AM …………………………..  8:30 AM
Monday - Saturday
WBSA 93.5 FM/1300 AM ………………………….. 11:15 AM
 

Website: www. EastAlbertville.org