What The Bible Says

Vol. IV - No. 21 / March 13, 2022

WHAT DID JESUS LOOK LIKE?

The Bible's Answer

    No one knows exactly what Jesus looked like, since his physical appearance is not totally described in the Bible. This indicates that Jesus’ physical features are not important. However, the Bible does give us some idea of Jesus’ general appearance.

Features: Jesus was a Jew. (Hebrews 7:​14) It is unlikely that his features were especially distinctive. On one occasion he was able to travel in secret from Galilee to Jerusalem without being recognized. (John 7:​10,11) And he apparently did not stand out even among his closest disciples. Judas Iscariot had to identify Jesus to the armed crowd that arrested him.​—Matthew 26:47-​49.

Hair length: It is unlikely that Jesus’ hair was long, because the Bible says that “long hair is a dishonor to a man.”​—1 Corinthians 11:14. Jesus would not have bought dishonor to himself and especially to His Father in Heaven.

Beard: Jesus followed Jewish law so he would have had a beard. The Jewish law prohibited adult males from ‘disfiguring the edges of their beard.’ (Leviticus 19:27; Galatians 4:4). 

Body: Many indications in the Scriptures bare out that Jesus was physically healthy. During His ministry, He traveled many miles. (Matthew 9:​35) He cleansed the Jewish temple twice, overturning the tables of money changers, and once drove out livestock with a whip. (Luke 19:45- 46; John 2:​14, 15). Mark 6:3 – Tells us Jesus was a carpenter: Is not this the carpenter the son of Mary. Jesus was not a weak or frail man by physical means at all based on what we can read about him in these verses.

Humanity: Jesus was warm and compassionate, (Matthew 11: 28: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest 29, Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” People sought Him out for comfort and help. (Luke 5:​12-13). Even children felt at ease in His presence.​—Matthew 19:13-​15; Mark 9:​35-​37.

    Let us consider what the Scriptures say about Jesus and His teachings. One day we will have to face Him in The Judgement!           —David Maddox

"I DON'T WANT TO CHANGE MY RELIGION"

    When this statement is made, the implied meaning is that “I don’t want to  change what I believe” or “I don’t want to change what I’m practicing”. The saddest thing is when people make this statement after being shown the Bible contradicts what they believe or practice. To make this reply, under those circumstances, is merely a convenient way to dodge the truth and feel justified in continuing what they are doing in religious matters.

    If Saul had made this reply to Ananias, he would have continued to believe he was right in doing “many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth” (Acts 26:9). There is no question of his being religious and sincere in his persecution of Christians, but that did not make him right. To be right he had to change from the religion of the Pharisees and count all things as loss (Phil. 3:4-9).

    The disciples of John are examples of those who had to ‘change their religion’. Even though they had been baptized by John, they were made to realize John’s baptism was no longer valid and “were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Acts 19:1-7). What if they would have replied to Paul, “We don’t want to change our religion”? Would they have been baptized in the name of Christ? More than likely they would not have done so. That statement is more than a statement. It’s an attitude that “I am not going to change regardless of what the Scriptures teach”.

    The Jews of Acts 18:4-8 are another case to consider. Some Jews blasphemed (spoke against) what Paul was teaching. Can you not image that some of them were telling Paul, “We don’t want to change our religion” and they were satisfied with what they were? Other Jews, even a chief ruler of the synagogue, “believed and were baptized”. They were willing to change when shown to be wrong in what they had formerly believed.

    We need to be willing to do the same. Regardless of the religion of our forefathers or how long we have been doing something or regardless of whatever loss we may have to suffer, we need to be willing to change. When shown from the Scriptures that what we are doing is contrary to what the word of God teaches, we don’t need to excuse ourselves by saying,”I don’t want to change my religion”. Don’t misunderstand, don’t change for the sake of change but change to conform to what God’s word reveals.
—E.R. Hall, Jr.

WHY I GO TO EVERY SERVICE OF THE CHURCH!

A. I Go To Every Service Of The Church Because I Am Made Stronger. Power is given in worship to live a nobler life (Acts 20:32). There is the sweetest fellowship on earth. Why should I want to miss ANY service?
 
B. I Go To Every Service Of The Church Because God Wants The Church To Grow (cf. Acts 2:47; 4:4). The church always grows when members put God first by loyal attendance. Here is a way all can help in the finest work on earth.
 
C. I Go To Every Service Of The Church To Set A Good Example. Many look my way and follow in my steps (Matthew 5:14-16). Influence is either good or bad. Any hour the church meets, my influence is with or against Christ.
 
D. I Go To Every Service Of The Church To Prove My Love And Gratitude. One who truly loves God does not ask if he must attend all services. His love compels him to! If I show love to God by attendance, I show lack of love by absence (Matthew 22:37-39).
 
E. I Go To Every Service Of The Church To Obey God. The Bible says, "forsake not the assembling of yourselves together" (Hebrews 10:25). Any service where the Bible is taught, prayer is made, and God is worshipped, is good, and "to him that knoweth to do good and doeth it not to him it is sin" (James 4:17). If it is good to be present for all services, it is bad to be absent from any. 

F. I Go To Every Service Of The Church To Put First Things First. "Seek ye FIRST His kingdom" (Matthew 6:33). Jesus said the church must be first to the Christian, even before seeking food, clothing or drink.

G. I Go To Every Service Of The Church Because It Is Safe To Do So. All who forsake an assembly wonder if they sin, but I know I am safe in attending EVERY service (Romans 14:21-23).
 
H. I Go To Every Service Of The Church To Abound In The Lord's Work (1 Corinthians 15:58). A true Christian wants to do ALL he can and not as LITTLE as he can. Since the assemblies of the church are vital, I must abound in attendance.
—Selected

SENTENCE SERMONS

We cannot become what we need to be by remaining what we are.
 ***
Don't use time or words carelessly. Neither can be retrieved.

"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. IV - No. 20 / February 27, 2022

WHAT'S YOUR QUESTION?

(Editor’s Note: In this issue of WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS, we would like to deal with two often asked questions. These questions may have also been on your mind. If there should be other questions you would like to have answered, why not write or email us and ask them? We would try and do our best to give you a Bible answer, and only a Bible answer, to any Bible question you would ask. Let us hear from you.)

How and where do we learn the church of Christ is the only church?

     Not everything that calls itself a church of Christ is such. There are many who go by that designation which do not follow the New Testament pattern. The term “church of Christ” is a scriptural designation for the church as can be seen from Romans 16:16 - “The churches of Christ salute you”. However, having the right name is only one requirement of the church. It must also be scriptural in work, worship, and all other things Christ has authorized the church to do. Christ, through the New Testament, must authorize every aspect of the church if He is truly to be the Head of it (Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:23).

     Churches of Christ which follow the New Testament pattern are the only church because they constitute the only church which was bought by the blood of Christ and which was built by Christ (Matthew 16:18; Acts 20:28). No other church is mentioned in or sanctioned by the New Testament. As stated already, ‘churches of Christ’ is one scriptural designation for God’s people. There are others such as: “church of God” (1 Corinthians 1:2). Any church that goes by a name or designation other than one found in the New Testament, is not the church the Lord established. How can a church be the church of the New Testament when it wears an unscriptural name? Of course there are many who say, “There’s nothing in a name” but God’s word teaches, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

     Also, for churches to wear such names as Methodist, Baptist, Catholic, Mormon, etc. is to have names not found in the New Testament to designate the church of the Lord. In addition to unscriptural names, they also teach doctrines and engage in practices not found in the New Testament. Those who say their doctrines and practices are acceptable to God need to tell us for what purpose God gave us the Bible. If we are at liberty to go our own way and do as we please, the Bible is of no use to us whatsoever. If we have this kind of liberty in religious matters, we need to throw our Bibles away like the Modernist and Humanist have been trying to get us to do!

Why aren’t members of all churches along with those who never learn the Bible but live good lives not saved?

     God’s demands a strict following of His word. “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.” (Galatians 1:8-9). “Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son.” (2 John 9). Salvation is not one time promised to those who disobey His word. This is what we believe and practice at the East Albertville church of Christ because this is the only fair and proper attitude toward God’s word. As to those who never learn the Bible but live good moral lives, the Bible teaches Jesus died for our sins (Matthew 26:28). It also teaches all are sinners (Romans 3:23; 6:23). To have forgiveness of sins one must contact the blood of Christ. This is done by hearing God’s word and believing it (Romans 10:17), repenting of our sins (Luke 13:,5; Acts 2:38), confessing Christ to be God’s Son (Romans 10:10; Acts 8:37), and being buried with Christ in baptism (Romans 6:3-6; Acts 2:38). If the good moral person can be saved by his good works and not obey these commands, he can be saved without the blood of Christ. Baptism is the act which puts us in contact with Christ’s blood. Thus, Christ died in vain if just being a good moral person is all it takes to be saved.     —E.R. Hall, Jr.

"...WE WALK BY FAITH..."

"Therefore, being always of good courage, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord - for we walk by faith, not by sight"; (2 Corinthians 5:6-7).

     The Bible often uses "walk" as a metaphor for one's manner of conduct. Life is a journey; we are merely "sojourners and pilgrims" here. An old hymn says, "this world is not my home; I'm just a passing through..." In the body we are "absent from the Lord," but like Paul, we "walk by faith..." and "make it our aim to always be well-pleasing" to God (2 Corinthians 5:2-9). Our choices are made with respect to things, which are unseen, rather than to those which are seen (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).

     Although we cannot see God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, and Heaven with our eyes, we have complete confidence that they are real, and we act accordingly.

     Whether we see or do not see does not alter their nature or importance, nor does it make it improper to act with reference to them.

     Faith enables us to see when the eye cannot. It makes easy the most self-sacrificial service required of us (cf. Abraham, Gen. 22). It enables us to endure sore trials without murmuring. When dangers arise, it lights our path and gives us courage. It enables us to overcome doubt and temptations for we believe that "Faith is the victory that overcomes the world!"

     We do not "walk by sight." One walks by sight when he is motivated only by the approval of other people. He walks by sight when he makes mammon his god...when he lives for getting and hoarding, or spending and squandering ... when he estimates worth by wealth, or property. A man walks by sight when he cannot control his appetite or passion; when he cannot put aside things "good for food and pleasant to the eyes" for the sake of tomorrow's sickness, or a life of disgrace; when he finds himself again and again yielding to the same temptation from which he has suffered. Weakly lives and miserably dies the one who is a slave of what his better nature condemns and despises, but to which his fleshly appetite, long made a tyrant by yielding to it, ties and binds him.
—James E. Cooper

SENTENCE SERMONS

What a pity human beings cannot exchange problems. Everyone knows exactly how to solve the other fellow's.
 ***
If you want to set the world right, start with yourself.
 ***
Christianity is often judged by what others
see of it in you.
 ***
Bitterness corrodes the spirit. 

"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. IV - No. 19 / February 13, 2022

"ALMOST THOU PERSUADEST ME TO BE A CHRISTIAN"

    “King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest. Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian. And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.” (Acts 26:27-29)

    The word “almost” is the saddest word in the English language. “Almost” can change a lot of things. Let’s examine this statement.

“ALMOST” defeats the doctrine of salvation by faith only. Faith alone did not save Agrippa. In John 12:42-43 we read of the chief rulers who believed would they were not saved. Faith without works is dead according to James 2:14-24. Yet a good number of religious people would try to have you believe that faith alone will save. They are quick to point out the thief on the cross and as if he was baptized. The answer is, “No, he was not!” but the thief was also living under the Old Testament and before Christ died on the cross. Christ’s blood and not been shed. You and I live after Christ’s death and under the New Testament. Can we not see that the the case of the thief is altogether different from us?

“THOU” refers to the apostle Paul for he was the one trying to persuade Agrippa.Since Agrippa refers to Paul having a part in persuading him, this defeats the doctrine of salvation by miraculous works of the Holy Spirit. There is no other power in force to save mankind from sin than the pure simple gospel of Christ (Romans 1:16). Some may be quick to point out Saul’s conversion in Acts 9 as proof of the need for miraculous events to happen in conversion. Indeed, a great light shined about him and he fell to the ground and heard the voice of Jesus. Yet, when he asked Jesus, “What wilt thou have me to do?”, Jesus replied, “Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.” (Acts 9:6) Saul went to the city of Damascus and when Ananias came to him he said, “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” (Acts 22:16) If Saul was saved because Jesus spoke to him, Saul didn’t know it, Christ didn’t know it, and Ananias didn’t know it! Too, if Saul was saved on the road to Damascus, as some claim, he still had his sins because Ananias told him to wash his sins away!

“PERSUADEST ME” destroys the concept of the mourner’s bench. Long ago, John Calvin said we must persuade God to save us and many denominations have accepted his doctrine. Thus, if you were to go to the services of  many churches you would hear a call made for anyone that is a sinner to come and kneel down at the altar to pray their sins away. In doing this they plead with God to forgive them of their sins. The problem with all this is that you cannot find anyone doing this in the Bible! No alien sinner ever prayed their sins away! If they did, where is the book, chapter, and verse that teaches such? Agrippa knew who had to be persuaded and it was him and not God! In 2 Peter 3:8-9 we see how God is willing that all men should come to repentance. Peter told people in Acts 2:40 to “save yourselves from this untoward generation”. God had done His part by providing His only begotten Son and man must do what God requires in order to be saved. Thus those in Acts 2 that “gladly received his word were baptized” (Acts 2:41).

“TO BE” is not the same as ‘to feel’ or ‘to get’. Religion is not something ‘you get’ but it is something “to be”. Neither is it an ‘experience’ because when you begin to hear people explain how they know they are saved, no two ‘experiences’ are the same. Yet, denominational creeds rely upon ‘experiences’ as evidence of salvation and, therefore, acceptance into the membership of their churches. However, in the book of Acts we have people being saved from their sins but there is a striking similarity in every case: the word of God was preached, they heard, believed, and were baptized. We don’t read in the Bible what we hear so much talk about today where people are told to “just accept Jesus as your personal Savior”, “Jesus come into my heart”, or “Lord save me”! Jesus said, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21)

“A CHRISTIAN” The name is important and there is something in a name. The word “Christian” refers to “one who belongs to Christ”. Calling yourself a Christian doesn’t make you one. If I were to call myself a mechanic and sit in a garage all day, that would not make me one. It makes a difference what name we wear religiously. Acts 4:12 states: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” If we can be saved by no other than Christ, does it make any sense to call ourselves by any other name other than a Christian? Then what justification can there be for people calling themselves Baptist? Was John crucified for them? This can be done to all the names that people were religiously. Why not BE A CHRISTIAN, nothing more and nothing less, instead of “almost”.    —E.R. Hall, Jr.

INTEGRITY

Required Under the Law
• Deuteronomy 16:19: Thou shalt not wrest judgement; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.
• Deuteronomy 16:20: That which is altogether just shalt thou follow, that thou mayest live, and inherhit the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.

The Just Man Described
• Proverbs 20:7: The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are  blessed after him.

Job’s Resolve
• Job 27:4: My lips shall not speak wickedness, nor my tongue utter  deceit.
• Job 27:5: God forbid that I should justify you: till I die I will not remove mine integrity from me.

Is Open to Inspection
• John 3:21: But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his  deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

HOW IS YOURS?
—George Leath

SENTENCE SERMONS
If you will get on the right road and go straight, you will not get lost. 
***
Common sense is one of the most uncommon things around.
***
You may need false teeth but be sure that your tongue is always true.
***
It takes far more effort to make a good life thana good living.
 ***
Often the chains of bad habits are two small to be felt until they are too strong to be broken.
***
To be sound, an argument must be true.

"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. IV - No. 18 / January 30, 2022

"HOW TO LEAD SOMEONE TO CHRIST"

    The above title was taken from a Bible correspondence course being offered by a denominational church. It goes on to give five steps: “1. I have sinned. 2. God loves me. 3. Christ died for me. 4. I receive Him. 5. I have everlasting life.” The Bible definitely teaches there are five steps a person must take to come to Christ but they differ drastically from the five just mentioned.

1. A person must HEAR. The fact that we have sinned, God loves us, and Christ died for us is learned when the gospel is preached    . In EVERY case of conversion found in the book of Acts, people first had to HEAR (Acts 2:37; 8:6,35; 9:6; 10:33; 16:14,32; 19:5) As we hear we learn that we have sinned (Romans 3:23), that God loves us (John 3:16), and that Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). Without hearing the gospel, we cannot come to Christ (John 6:44-45).

2. Upon hearing God’s word, we must BELIEVE. This is another way of saying we must have FAITH. Jesus in John 8:24 said, “…if ye believe not that I am He, ye shall die in your sins.” Some denominations teach a person is saved the moment he believes. If that be true, why was Agrippa just “almost” a Christian? He believed (Acts 26:27-28)! Why are the devils saved? They believe (James 2:19)! No, it takes more than just faith only (James 2:24).

3.  A person must also REPENT. Jesus taught repentance was absolutely necessary in Luke 13:3 and 5 or else “perish”. That’s why Peter commanded people in Acts 2 to repent. Repentance is a turning: a turning FROM sin and turning TO God.

4.   If, upon hearing and believing God’s word, we are willing to repent, we must then CONFESS Christ to be the Son of God (Matthew 16:16; Acts 8:37). Confession is made with the mouth unto (in the direction of) salvation as stated in Romans 10:10.

5.  After confessing Christ to be the Son of God, all that stands between us and our being “in Christ” is BAPTISM (Galatians 3:27). Baptism is the final step that “saves us” (1 Peter 3:21) because baptism in the Bible is “for (in order to have) the remission (forgiveness) of sins” (Acts 2:38). Let our salvation be patterned after those we read about in the book of Acts!  —E.R. Hall, Jr.

"A THOUSAND TIMES, NO!"

    Ever notice that you can say "no" a thousand times, but all those no's are canceled by one "yes"? "No, you can't have a cookie, can't have a cookie, can't have a cookie! Okay, yes!" The cookie will be eaten! To concede and fail you don't have to say yes as many times as you must say no to remain steadfast and succeed.

    A thousand no's to fornication are deleted by one yes that robs one of his virtue and virginity. A thousand no's to adultery are swept away by a yes that destroys family, home and soul. A thousand no's to drugs are erased by a yes that opens the door to all kinds of destruction and excess. A thousand no's to stealing are forgotten by a yes on our record when we stand before the law. A thousand no's to pornography are overwhelmed by a yes that writes indelible images in the mind. It applies across the board to all sin.

    While it is certainly true that forgiveness in Christ is available for any sinful yes decision we make, this must not be seen as license to make that errant decision even once. We are called to completely die to sin (Rom. 6) -- it is to have no part in us, or us in it.

    Parents often tire of the "May I have a cookie?" question and finally concede with a yes. Kids know this. Satan knows this. We tire of saying no and looking different from others. We tire of our "no" answer causing abstinence from activities that appear pleasurable and fun. We tire of always being the one to say “no". In time, sin nags us to the point where we finally want to say, "Okay, yes, just this time!" How much more can God expect us to resist -- how many more times must we say no?

    The Hebrew writer reminds us, "You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin" (Heb. 12:4). We're not just talking about saying no to the point of alienation and missing out on some of life's pleasures. Resisting "to bloodshed, striving against sin" means saying no to sin until it kills us! That means a thousand times no to the sin that tempts us from within and from without. And when we have said no a thousand times it is then time to say it a thousand and one times, and more!
—David Diestelkamp

ARE YOU FAITHFUL?

    It was a sunny morning when James stepped outside to get his morning paper. Only a moment later James returned with a disgusted look on his face. No paper! James said, "I'm gonna have to get me a new paper boy. He's just not faithful." The problem was that James' paperboy would deliver about 1 out of every 3 days.

    Fred was in a hurry to get to work, but it happened again. His car wouldn't start. He had hoped this used second vehicle would be just what he needed, but about 1 out of every 3 turns of the ignition, the car wouldn't start. Fred told his wife, "I'm gonna have to trade that car in. I just need one that's more faithful.”

    Are James and Fred right to call the paperboy and the car unfaithful? Would you be pleased with a paperboy who delivered I day out of 3? Would you be pleased with a car that only started 2 out of 3 times? Certainly not!

    The apostle Paul was chosen by God to carry the gospel because God counted him faithful. "And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry" (1 Tim. 1:12). Paul was trustworthy. God could count on him when He needed him. Paul would never fail in his duty to God.

    What about me and my attendance to the assemblies of God's people? My brethren are counting on me to be there. I need to consider the impact of my absence upon them. My presence helps to stir up my brothers and sisters to love and good works. Furthermore, I am drawing near to God and holding fast to my faith (Heb. 10:23-25). Am I faithful if I hit one out of every 3 services? Am I faithful if I hit 2 out of 3? Does God consider me reliable and trustworthy? Is he pleased with such performance?

    It's something to think about, isn't it? If I wouldn't call the paperboy faithful and the used car faithful then why do I consider myself faithful in my service to God if my performance is no better? All of us need to realize our obligations to God and to our brethren regarding our attendance. We grow weaker through our absence. Someone once compared this to an automobile: "Brethren are often like cars. They 'sputter' before they 'miss' and they 'miss' before they 'quit.'"  —Jeff May

"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. IV - No. 17 / January 16, 2022

RIGHTLY DIVIDE THE WORD

    What does it mean to rightly divide God’s word as found in 2nd Timothy 2:15? There are many people who believe that the Old Testament scriptures are applicable today for law/salvation! What do the scriptures teach? We understand from a study of the Bible that the old law, the law given to the Israelite nation through Moses, was to last until Christ came. Read Matthew 5:17.18. We understand that Christ, upon His death, fulfilled that law, nailed it to the cross. Read Colossians 2:14. Thus ending that law-making way for the law of Christ. Read Hebrews 10:9. We are now under law to Christ. Please read Hebrews 9:13-17.

    All but one of the Ten commandments in the old law were restated in the law of Christ which is found in the new testament. The one that commands to “remember the sabbath day to keep it holy” is not restated therefore this one does not apply today. There is not a scripture in the new testament, after Christ established His church in Acts chapter 2 that demands us to remember the sabbath day to keep it holy. So how do we use the old testament scriptures today? Romans 15:4 teaches us: These scriptures were written for our learning. There are numerous things we learn. Prophesies of the coming of Christ, how God spoke to others in olden times, how God has always expected obedience from his children, blessed those who obeyed and punished those who were disobedient.

    We learn of God’s love, mercy and long suffering and many things too numerous to mention in this short article. We need to understand that we must not go back to the Old Law today to follow its teaching for our law/salvation today. We are to rightly divide God’s word! Please read all references and be aware many others can be given. Please, read and study the Bible for yourself! 
—Byron Pledger

HOLY SPIRIT BAPTISM

    There are many today who claim to have received Holy Spirit baptism. Numerous preachers from pulpits, radio, and television are preaching you must receive Holy Spirit baptism to be saved or as evidence of salvation. Did Jesus or His apostles ever teach these things about Holy Spirit baptism? Let’s look at some facts about Holy Spirit baptism. (1) We see from such passages as Matthew 3:11, Mark 1:8, Luke 3:16, and John 1:33 that Holy Spirit baptism was always a PROMISE but NEVER A COMMAND! When Holy Spirit baptism was promised, it was always promised to the apostles (John 14-16; Acts 1:5). (2) There are only two recorded cases of Holy Spirit baptism: one in Acts 2 and the other was seven years later in Acts 10. Those who received Holy Spirit baptism in Acts 2 were Jews and the ones in Acts 10 were Gentiles. Both cases fulfilled Joel’s prophesy of Joel 2:28 concerning God’s Spirit being poured out on “all flesh”. (Joel’s prophesy was quoted by Peter in Acts 2 to explain the occasion of Holy Spirit baptism upon the apostles.) (3) Every time the Scriptures refer to the Holy Spirit, it is not referring to baptism. A dollar is money but not all money is a dollar. If we can understand this, we should likewise understand the Holy Spirit can be mentioned in the Scriptures and it not always refer to Holy Spirit baptism. (4) When the Holy Spirit fell on the Gentiles in Acts 10, Peter had to go all the way back to Pentecost in Acts 2 to find another case (Acts 11:15). This shows it was not a common thing to happen as it is tried to be made into today.

    The PURPOSE of Holy Spirit baptism was to guide the apostles into “all truth” (John 14:26; 15:26-27; 16:13). The “you” in these passages refer to the apostles. The other purpose was to confirm to the Jews that the Gentiles were accepted under the same terms of the gospel (Acts 10:45,47; 11:15-18).

    In Ephesians 4:5 we read there is “ONE BAPTISM”. At one time there was Moses’ baptism (1 Corinthians 10:2) and the baptism of John (Mark 1:4). After the Judgment Day there will be the baptism of fire (Matthew 3:11). In the first century, there was Holy Spirit baptism to serve the purpose of the things we’ve already stated. Today, there is but “one baptism” and it is commanded to be done in water for the purpose of remitting sins (Acts 2:38; 8:36; 10:48). No, there is no Holy Spirit baptism and water baptism for that would make TWO BAPTISMS! The Scriptures teach there is only ONE just as there is only ONE God, ONE Lord, ONE Spirit, ONE faith, ONE body, and ONE hope (Ephesians 4:4-6).

    There is no need for Holy Spirit baptism today. God’s Word has been revealed in its total truth so that we have the “perfect law of liberty” (James 1:25; Jude 3). If people today have received Holy Spirit baptism, why don’t they preach what the Holy Spirit says about salvation, worship, and the Lord’s church?
—E.R. Hall, Jr.

MARITAL FAITHFULNESS

    A recent report revealed that "thirty-five percent of the people who use personal ads for dating are already married?" For years we've preached against and bemoaned the high rate of divorce in this country. But divorce doesn't just happen. There are any number of attitudes and actions that lead up to it. Wrong attitudes toward God, toward spouses, and toward the institution of marriage itself lead to foolish and harmful actions that destroy homes and condemn souls.

    God created the institution of marriage. It is He who joins man and woman together in the bonds of matrimony, and He intends for them to stay that way until separated by death (Romans 7:2). Jesus said that man is not to separate what God has joined together (Matthew 19:6). In Malachi 2:16, God literally says that He "hates divorce." Any married person with an ounce of respect for God and His will, will not take out a personal ad for a date or engage in any other activity that could lead to a divorce. It's a matter of having the right attitude toward God.

    It is also a matter of having the right attitude toward one's spouse. Spouses are to be loved, honored and cherished. A husband who is enraptured with the love of his spouse will not "be enraptured by an immoral woman" (Proverbs 5:19-20). He will honor his wife as the weaker vessel, and cherish her as he does his own flesh (1 Peter 3:7; Ephesians 5:28-29). The wife who loves her husband will "see that she respects" him (Ephesians 6:23). "An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, But she who causes shame is like rottenness in his bones" (Proverbs 12:4). This mutual love and respect between marriage partners leaves no room for activities which bring pain, shame and dishonor to one's spouse. Simply put, divorce and its painful consequences are often the result of being unfaithful to God and to one's spouse. Truly, "the way of the unfaithful is hard" (Proverbs 13:15, NKJV)

—Steve Klein

QUOTABLE QUOTES

    "I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can do, or any kindness or abilities that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer it or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.” - William Penn

    "It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself.” - Unknown

"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