We've reached that time of the year when the majority of the "Christianized" world is particularly aware of the coming of our Lord. Most particularly are they interested in celebrating His birth -- as the slogans describe it, "He's the reason for the season." We can understand the desire of man to honor King Jesus. This is natural and should be compelling to those who know of His marvelous sacrifice for our hope. While we cannot find Biblical reason to set one day apart above other days for celebrating the birthday of Jesus, we are at least thankful that men are willing to acknowledge His coming. We certainly must not conduct ourselves hatefully, resentfully, or in any other way that would make the world think we avoided showing or love for the Lord during this one season just to prove a point. I am thankful every day that Christ was born! I'd hate to live in a world where they would not acknowledge this wonderful event in history.
As opposed to one special day, and one very special "high sabbath," we are very much aware in the Bible of the need for daily meditation, and every Lord's Day observance of the communion of the body and blood of the Lord. No, the church doesn't set the "Christmas" season apart as a special holy day, but we who are Christians can rejoice while others rejoice that Christ has come, and hopefully lead them to a fuller awareness of what this world would be like if Christ had not come. Yet we must not give them the impression that, as the church, we set apart days that the Lord Himself did not set apart. That's why we don't have special "Christmas" services, or programs-dramas-concerts, or manger scenes, etc within the church. These are of men and not of the Bible.
I want us to think very practically about our title question. What a difference his coming has made in MY life!!! We would not have the chart or compass that helps us measure some fundamental values: for example, good homes are the fences that God has put around the nation, and Christ has given us the standard for good homes: The standard of monogamy; The standard of Loving as one's own self; The standard of purity.
We would not adequately understand the Fatherhood of God. Jesus has shown us the Father. When asked to "show us the Father" Jesus responded that if any man hath seen me he hath seen the Father. In the Old Testament the concept of the Fatherhood of God was less pronounced with only a few references. It is, however, a frequent theme after Christ came. Now we view Him through very personal eyes.
We would not understand mercy and grace. I would not be a very nice person. He has changed my life personally in: Who I married; How we raised our children; How we entertained ourselves; What my priorities and commitments are. Without Jesus we would not have the close family tie of the Broad Street Church of Christ. He is the tie that binds our hearts together in love.
. Without Him, I would be nothing; Without Him I'd surely fail.
Without Him, I would be drifting, Like a ship without a sail.
Jesus, oh Jesus, do you know him today,
Please don't turn him away.
Oh, Jesus, My Jesus, Without him, how lost I would be.
..... Terry Broome
I heard the story of a preacher who phoned the home of some recent church visitors. A voice answered with a whispered "Hello." The preacher asked, "Who is this?" and heard the Whisper: "Jimmy." The conversation went sort of as follows: Preacher: "How old are you, Jimmy." Whisper: "Four" Preacher: "Jimmy, may I please speak to your mom?" Whisper: "She's busy." Preacher: "Then may I speak to your dad?" Whisper: "He's busy." Preacher: "Are; there any other adults at your home?" Whisper: "The Police." Preacher: "Then let me speak to one of the police officers." Whisper: "They're busy." Preacher: "Who else is there?" Whisper: "Firemen." Preacher: "Well, put one of the firemen on the phone." Whisper: "They're busy." Preacher: "Jimmy, what are they all busy doing?" Whisper: "They're looking for me." Just like Jimmy, a lot of people are hiding, not only from parents and police, but from God. And there is nothing funny about hiding from the ONE who loves us most and the ONE we need the most. Adam tried to hide from God in the Garden of Eden because he was ashamed of what he had done, and of the consequence of what he had done. Now Adam knew that he was naked so he hid himself. But friends, God cannot be hidden from. David said in Psa 139:7-17: "Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!" Furthermore, We Should Not Want To Hide From God. Paul speaks of God who made the heavens and the earth, and declares "For in Him we live and move and have our being." (Acts 17:28). In Psalms 63:1-7 David declares: "....O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary. Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips: When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches. Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice."
..... Terry Broome
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age" (Mt 28:18-20).
The above statement was made by Jesus to His apostles shortly before He ascended to heaven. It's commonly called The Great Commission." Notice the main thought of Jesus' command: "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations..." To "make disciples," therefore, is the GOAL of evangelizing the world for Christ.
Are you a disciple of Jesus? More than likely you believe in Jesus. You might even be one to attend church services regularly -- But is that what it means to be His disciple? Take a closer look at what is involved in being a true disciple of Jesus Christ. The word "disciple" literally means A LEARNER. According to Vine's Expository Dictionary Of New Testament Words, it denotes "one who follows another's teaching." But a disciple was not only a learner, he was also AN ADHERENT to the teachings of Christ. For this reason disciples are often spoken of as IMITATORS of their teachers. Jesus gives us this picture in Luke 6:40. To be Christ's disciple, then, is to strive to be like Him!
According to the apostle Paul, this coincides with God's goal in the redemption of mankind, that they be conformed to the image of His Son - Romans 8:29. Do you have a strong desire to follow Jesus and become like Him? Unless you do, it cannot be said that you are truly His disciple!
A disciple is also one who abides in Jesus' words - Jn 8:31. This would imply being a diligent student of the teachings of Christ. It also requires one to be a "doer" of the Word - Matt. 7:21-27; James 1:21-25. In view of this, a true disciple would not fail to study the Bible diligently, nor would he willingly refrain from opportunities to study with others (e.g., Bible classes, church services, gospel meetings).
A Disciple is also one who loves the brethren John 13:34-35 with a love patterned after the love of Jesus ("as I have loved you"). This is a love that is visible to the world ("by this all will know"). Therefore, a true disciple would make every effort to get to know his brethren and take advantage of occasions to encourage and grow closer to them.
A disciple is, furthermore, one who bears much fruit - John 15:8. Notice the word "much." Jesus is not talking about an occasional good deed, but a lifestyle which prompts people to glorify God! - Matt. 5:16. This is so important as evidenced by the fact that failure to bear much fruit will result in being severed from Christ - John 15:1-2.
The point should be clear: to be a disciple of Jesus Christ means more than being just a casual church member. It requires COMMITMENT, especially in regards to: The teachings of Christ, the love of brethren, and bearing fruit to the glory of God. This kind of commitment involves a "high cost" of discipleship as demanded by Jesus in Luke 14:25-33. This kind of "high cost" of discipleship demanded by Jesus caused many people to turn away from following Him. But Jesus wasn't trying to attract large crowds, He wanted disciples! Is the cost worth it? I believe so when we consider the rewards of such discipleship.
..... Terry Broome
Some people have perceived of a "no-strings attached" version of Christianity. This concept is not Biblical and it never has been Biblical. Our freedom as a nation has especially contributed to a sense of independence that seems to foster an attitude of "You can't tell me what to do." "Don't crowd my space." "Give me my liberty."
Along with this sense of independence comes less dependence on a supreme God in whom we live and move and have our being. The prevailing reaction to God is, "He's nice to have around for emergencies, but when everything's alright, I don't really need to be bothered with all the religious red-tape."
If you doubt that this is true, then consider the thousands, perhaps millions of people that turn very religious when they have an illness, death in the family, financial crisis, or some other major calamity, but who we fail to see again in churches for months or years after the crisis has settled down. Sadly, we must admit that most congregations have such a list of names of individuals; and no matter how hard we strive to enlist their faithfulness, in spite of the few successes we enjoy, others step into their place and the list never seems to get any smaller.
Somehow we have failed to convince people that the most important thing is to do the will of God. "The whole duty of man is to fear God and keep His commandments." We've tried sermons on God's love for us joy, peace, the beauties of heaven, and all sorts of "positive" messages about hope in Christ Jesus, but, still, we have lengthy lists of individuals who just simply are not faithful to the Lord.
I make that statement at risk of being accused of being judgmental. One brother who had not assembled with the saints in nearly two years said we had no right to say he was unfaithful. Another who hadn't attended in 6 months said, "Even though I haven't been attending, I haven't been unfaithful to my Lord. I pray to Him every day." This sounds a lot like the "Jesus, Yes the church, No" philosophy.
The Lord requires faithfulness in all our service which includes attendance. "Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful" (1 Corinthians 4:2). As with Israel of old, the primary reason people are unfaithful is because of unbelief. In Hebrews chapter 3, verse 7 through chapter 4, verse 11 we learn that unbelief caused them to fall in the wilderness. The same unbelief will cause many not to follow through with their commitment to God and thus fail to enter His rest. Unfortunately, when people lose their belief in God's promises, they quit fearing God's condemnation! People quit believing that God means what He says, and therefore they quit revering Him or being afraid of His wrath. "Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief" (Hebrews 4:11).
..... Terry Broome
"As the deer pants for the water brooks,
So pants my soul for You, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When shall I come and appear before God?"
(Ps. 42:1-2, NKJV)
Have you ever been thirsty, really thirsty? The kind of thirst that demands relief? Israel knew what it was to have very little water available. When was the last time you were "thirsty" for God? When being close to Him, meeting with Him, listening to Him, was an immediate demand? It is so easy at times to forget what we have right before us, to take for granted that God is always there, always cares, and to have no need for Him. Just like a marriage or any relationship can grow stale, so our love and thirst for God can grow dull over time.
There are some things we can do to enhance this closer walk with God. For example, we can START PAYING ATTENTION TO GOD. It is amazing how we often ignore God until we need Him. Our passion and feelings die as we remove ourselves from God. I don't think we intend to get away from God; we simply drift unconsciously. Desperate circumstances lead us to God; we have no one else. Abraham Lincoln is reported to have said: "I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go."
It is reassuring to remember that God can do things men cannot. We draw close to God by making Him a priority in our lives everyday. This we can do through: Bible study: 1 Pet. 2:1; prayer: 1 Thess 5:17; private devotions: (James 5:13). Good relationships are worked at everyday; they are made.
Secondly, we need to COUNT OUR BLESSINGS. We mustn't lose sight of the blessings of the past. It is easy to lose touch with the significance that God saved me from sin, delivered me from the domain of darkness into the kingdom of His beloved Son. It is easy to take our focus off the cross, the pain He suffered for me. It's easy to forget the answered prayers, the Scriptures of hope and comfort, and the strength God has given us through the years. I need to counting the blessings of my present (Phil. 4:8). When we concentrate on the negative, we lose sight of God. When we concentrate on the positive, we grow more thankful of God.
The energy I give to distractions takes away from God. It's hard to be a good spouse in a marriage if you allow everything else to rob your time from the marriage. It is hard to be a good parent if the children are low in our priorities. Its difficult to be a good Christian if God is preempted by our whims and desires. Remember the lesson of Luke 8:14. The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. Is there anything in your life that keeps you from being with God? Is there anything in your life that robs your energy and time, so that you are so overly tired you don't have time for Him? God loves you and wants to give you an abundant life (John 10:10). Don't allow your passion for Him to drain, so that you miss the joy He wants you to know.
..... Terry Broome
Friends, if this generation is brought to Christ, this generation must bring them! Nearly 2000 years after Christ gave the Great Commission, however, Christianity remains a minority religion in the world. I've heard missionaries--especially in the Far-East, in cities of millions of people-- tell of seeing giant Coca-Cola signs, yet where many have never heard of Jesus of Nazareth. The Beatles were more correct than we cared to admit back in the 60's when they claimed to be more popular than Jesus Christ.
Bro. Charles Coil, some 32 years ago at the Oklahoma Christian College Lectures, deeply affected me as a young student there. He told of a student at International Bible College in Florence, Alabama (now Heritage Christian University) who came from a strong denominational background who was converted while at IBC. He proudly informed his family of his obeying the Gospel, only to be told by a preaching aunt, "George (name has been changed), tell me you've joined any church besides the Church of Christ. George, you're an evangelist, and your people are evangelists. George, the churches of Christ are not Evangelistic people!" Bro. Coil relates that George dropped his head momentarily, and then with confidence declared, "They may not be, but by the grace of God they're going to be!!!"
Brethren, by the grace of God, we've got to be!!! Jesus parted with the urgent words of Matt. 28:19-20. These words set in motion a plan that, if diligently followed, could assure that His coming, His work, His death, burial and resurrection would not be in vain, but every man would know His grace, and mercy, and have opportunity to obey Him and serve Him.
The Church of Christ is not just a saved fraternity---we have a reason for being the church of our Lord. Our existence is for a mission just as Christ's life had a mission: John 17:18 -- "As thou didst send me into the world, even so sent I them into the world." Jesus suggests in Luke 19:10 that His life was a mission "...to seek and to save that which was lost."
We have a mission, a sending into our times with the message "To make known the Manifold wisdom of God according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus." (Eph. 3:10). Here is the beginning and the end of why the church came into being at God's command, certainly not just to be a saved fraternity, but to carry out the "ministry of reconciliation" (2 Cor. 5:18-21). A church that is not "mission- minded" has lost sight of her reason for existing. Let there be no mistake about it, IF THE CHURCH FAILS IN HER MISSION, THE WORLD DIES LOST!! "IF THIS GENERATION IS BROUGHT TO CHRIST, THIS GENERATION MUST BRING THEM!" Yes, George, we may not be evangelistic, but by the grace of God, we're going to be!!!
The Task Before Us Is Enormous! The world's population is around 6+ billion people and growing rapidly. The death rate in the U.S. is 2,162,000 per year. That's one every 15 seconds!! Hundreds are dying every second around the world!!! According to a 1991 report on World Missions published by Abilene Christian University, there are 1,626,000 members of the church in 13,375 congregations in the U.S. There are 2,235,013 in 36,942 congregations of the church in 224 countries world wide. 4/100 of 1% of the world's population are New Testament Christians.
Brethren, If We Don't Win These People, Who Will?? Sadly, the religions of the world intend to. We must have the same goal in mind.
..... Terry Broome
It is an honor to be called upon to serve God's people in any capacity. Psalms 84:10, "For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness." Our Lord Himself came to minister unto man, Matthew 20:28, "Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many."
Every Christian should long to be a servant, yet in spite of our faithfulness to serve, there are some things that would go unattended if they are left to everybody's business. In reality they would become nobody's business. Thus God ordained that special servants (diakonoi -- table waiters) be appointed in the church. This is a broad word and refers to everything from "ministering angels" in Matt 4:11 to Martha serving supper in John 12:2. But it has special significance in 1 Timothy 3 when a distinctive set of servants are to be appointed in the churches.
Not every Christian is suited for this office. One must first be proven. Proven what? Dependable, faithful, willing. A man should not be expected to be made a deacon for the honor of office but for the specific assignment of work. You ruin a man to make a deacon of him and not have a work for him to do. Their work can be both spiritual, as with Stephen and Phillip in Acts 7 and 8, or it can be of a material nature, as in Acts 6.
Our elders have set before the congregation a group of 8 men who have now been accepted to serve in this special way. This speaks highly of each one of them. These 8 will be installed into the office of deacon at the morning service of this coming Lord's Day. They are: Al Evett, Jim Flowers, Ernie Foster, Roger Kime, C. B. Laney, Sonny Robertson, Phillip Street, and Brad Wilhelm. Gentlemen, the congregation has demonstrated that they respect you and trust you as spiritually minded men who can represent the church well in the many daily administrations. It is a serious challenge and a tremendous responsibility. Others are watching you for leadership attitudes. These eight will join our existing body of deacons bringing the number to 22. The other deacons are: Jim Anderson, Rick Baird, Jo Reed Brumley, Leroy Gist, Gene Hale, Tom Hancock, LarryHolland, Ed Jones, Bill Parks, Bob Rice, James Rice, Pat Russell, J. A. Sharp, and Ralph Sheppard.
Among all the things that are needed in the Lord's church at large, and at Broad Street as a local congregation, are spiritually minded leaders -- Men who will put an emphasis on evangelism in every detail of their job description. Jesus said that if we deliver even a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple we will not lose our reward (Matthew 10:42).
We ask you to view your roles with seriousness and dignity, even if they are as door keepers in the house of God, or maintenance experts, or benevolent crews, or advertising, or youth, or missions, or worship, or counting money, whatever it may be. Be a good steward. We are living in the greatest of times as for opportunity to serve. A world all around us is crying out with needs. You can just throw a dart and hit a need somewhere. So be faithful MINISTERS -- STEWARDS of the grace of life. "As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God." (1 Peter 4:10).
..... Terry Broome
I heard it on the television so it must be so! The preacher said that baptism was more important than some folks say it is, and less important than others say it is. This was a prominent tele-evangelist, and a whole panel of men agreed with him. But what did he mean?? He never explained. It was just a neutral statement leaving it up to the listeners to figure it out.
I don't know of any religious topic that has been more controversial than that of baptism -- Questions like: "Who should be baptized?" "Why should they be baptized?" "How should they be baptized?" "What kind of baptism are we to experience?" "What happens to those who are not baptized?" It's obvious that it's a religious subject because so many religions practice some form of baptism. But in all fairness, if you ask representatives from all these various groups why one is baptized we would have many conflicting reasons.
Several years ago a deputy general of a major denominational hierarchy visited the city where I preached and was interviewed for our local newspaper. He was part of an ecumenical effort to merge seven major denominations into one, but the merger was in trouble as there were seven conflicting doctrines about baptism to be dealt with. It seems that some compromise was needed and the merger never took place.
Can the reader see the irony of this? The Apostle Paul wrote in Ephesians 4, verses 3 through 6, "Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all."
Did you catch the thought? Unity is desirable, even necessary and attainable; and one doesn't have to compromise on seven different baptisms because there is only one baptism. One doesn't have to be confused about baptism in the Bible. While it is true that there are many baptisms talked about in the Scriptures (viz. with Moses in the cloud and in the sea; fire; Holy Spirit; John's baptism; and water baptism) the text indicates there is one baptism for the Christian age.
Israel of old was totally immersed with Moses in the cloud and in the Red Sea. John's baptism was preparatory for the coming Kingdom of our Lord. After John, that baptism was no longer practiced (see Acts 19:1-5). The baptism of fire is our Lord's description of judgement and condemnation -- a warning instead of a command to be obeyed. The baptism of the Holy Spirit was a pouring out from Heaven in fulfillment of a promise. It was never given as a command to be obeyed; it was a fulfilled promise that has happened; and it is not something one can expect to receive miraculously today.
Water baptism (immersion) for the remission of sins is commanded by Peter in Acts 2:38. There is no room for controversy or misunderstanding. One has to totally rewrite the Scriptures to remove baptism from the subject of becoming a Christian. With love for the Truth in our hearts. . . .
..... Terry Broome
There is a good deal of evidence that the family unit as we once knew it is breaking up, and many of us have had to redefine what we mean by the word "family." Single parents make up a significant percentage of today's family units. Many grandparents are being forced into raising grandchildren where their own parents have abdicated responsibility.
Many children are being raised in broken homes from divorce. Many children may come to be raised in homes of lesbian and homosexual unions. These are not Biblical families, but society is being bombarded by propaganda to make this relationship acceptable.
Now more than ever in the history of our nation, we need to re-examine God's focus on the family: The strength of the nation -- in fact the welfare of the world -- as well as the survival of the church -- is bound up within families. Thayer has written: "As are families, so is society. National greatness springs from well-ordered ones."
Madam D'Estelle is reported to have responded to Napoleon Bonaparte's inquiry: "What does France need the most?" with a single word answer that we all love to hear, "Mothers." It's the same today. The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world.
God's love has always been centered on the family, both the spiritual family, his church, and the physical family, the home. From the beginning, God ordained families, and then used the home as the basis for his communication and work with mankind. He worked through Noah and his family both in saving them and in providing for the repopulation of the earth. He worked through Abraham's family to bring about a great nation of Israel, and eventually the blessing upon the whole world in the birth of Christ. In Gen 18:19, speaking of Abraham, we find the first glimpse of the importance of family teaching and instruction in pleasing God: "For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgement; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him." And who can forget Joshua's bold declaration on behalf of his entire family, "...as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" (Josh. 24:15).
In five lessons from Sunday morning through Wednesday night we will be dealing with "The Home As God Would Have It." Broad Street members need to plug the dates October 27-30 into your schedule and be at each service. Furthermore, this material will be helpful to all your friends, neighbors, and relatives. Let's do some personal preparation for a great Gospel Meeting!! We will conduct an aggressive advertising campaign, but nothing replaces your one on one encounters.
..... Terry Broome
Did you ever feel that way? Are you tired of the confusion, and all the choice making? "I Just Want To Be A Christian! Will someone please tell me how?" We're convinced that many people have ended their search because of the religious confusion that "addles the brain."
God is infinite in wisdom, and perfect in all His ways. From eternity He purposed a Purpose that all men should be united in Christ Jesus. This gathering of people were to be His separated or called-out ones (the ecclesia) -- the church! (Ephesians 3:9-11). Disciples were taught the Gospel in keeping with the Great Commission of Matthew 28:18-20: "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen."
Those who heeded the call were baptized, and the Lord added them to this "ecclesia" -- the church -- (Acts 2:38-47). In Acts 11:26 we learn that "...the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch." That's it! That's what I want to be! -- JUST A CHRISTIAN!
If God, in His wisdom, had willed it so, men would have been instructed in the fine art of establishing "new churches" and in "how to be different kinds of Christians". This writer is convinced that an honest inquirer can see from the Bible that it was never, even in the remotest way, in God's plan for man to so divide Christianity. Even though our religious world practices exactly that, we're convinced that it is a Biblical plea to call ALL men back to the Bible and invite them to just be Christians only, nothing more and nothing less. Why should a man have to put a tag in front of his religious name to explain which "kind" of Christian he is?
We need to take a look at this very basic need of man spiritually -- to be JUST A CHRISTIAN. Our plea should be that of Jesus Himself in the garden in John 17:20-21: "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me."
For years I have believed that this plea was both valid and attainable. Now I'm told by some Ph.D. that it is not, and in fact that those of us who are working toward this goal are merely deluding ourselves into thinking that we are not a part of religious division. Well, I just don't believe it! If I do what the Lord says to do to be a Christian, why does it follow that I must choose which "kind" of Christian I want to be? Why can He not just add me to the church as He did in the First Century? In truth, it does not so follow!! Don't be ashamed of your plea, or your spiritual birthright in Christ. I am not a part of a church that Alexander Campbell founded. In fact, he did not found one. Remember, "Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain" (Psa 127:1). I AM just a Christian!
..... Terry Broome
We can understand man's need for authority in every walk of life. We drive a car by the authority of a driver's license. We write checks by the authority of a previously made deposit. We get married by the authority of a marriage license. Little can be done in life without proper authorization. Isn't it reasonable that in religion man must also have the proper authorization for what he does?
In Matthew 21:23, the chief priests and elders approached Christ with this same fundamental question. "By what authority doest thou these things?" In their case, they were threatened by His claims to Divinity, His teachings, His miracles, and His act of overturning the money changers' tables and driving those out of the temple who made a mockery of its use. It was absolutely essential that His authority be established and that they learn to submit to it. Even so must we learn to submit.
The diversity of religious doctrines and feelings rampant today forces us to ask, "By what authority do you do those things which you do?" and, "Does it really make any difference?" Every religious person should welcome these questions and the opportunity they bring to give "a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear," (I Pet. 3:15).
Colossians 3:17 teaches us, "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.." "In the name of" suggests "by the authority of." This is consistent with Peter's admonition in 1 Peter 4:11, "If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God..."
We have an obligation to speak a "thus sayeth the Lord" when it comes to religious matters. Frankly, my opinion is no better, and I'd like to think no worse than the next man's. There certainly are some areas where I might respect one man's opinion over another based on his expertise in a given field. But no "expert" has the right to define policy for God or put words in the mouth of Jesus.
Study carefully the text of 2 Peter 1:20 - 2:3, "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...." It is very possible that many of us take a lot for granted in our religious practices. We should be certain if we are doing the will of the Lord or of man. What is your AUTHORITY?"
..... Terry Broome
Walking In The Light is tantamount to walking in Jesus, walking with Jesus, doing what Jesus would have us to do. Friends, if we're not walking in the light, there are some very serious consequences. The obvious one is that we lose fellowship with one another and with the blood of Christ. Fellowship is contingent on walking in the light. "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin" (1 John 1:7).
A flashlight at night, a beacon in the dark, a search light for the lost, all show us the importance of being in the light. Our lives often hinge on it. Light is necessary for growth. The plant kingdom reminds us of this very graphically. This makes the text of John 1:4 all the more meaningful to us when we realize: "In him was life; and the life was the light of men. . ."
Our Theme Question is: ARE YOU WALKING IN THE LIGHT??? The initial response might be: "Well, yes, I believe in God, and Christ," or "I may not be coming to church like I should, but I haven't give up my personal relationship with the Lord," or "I hope so."
What about a resounding, "Yes! I walk with Him as closely as I possibly can by reading His Word every day, by praying for His wisdom and direction, and by heeding His words of counsel. Plus I stay as far away from the evil one as I can.
Most children when called upon to sing a "big people's" song out of the hymn book select "Trust and Obey." "When we walk with the Lord, in the light of His Word, what a glory he sheds on our way. While we do His good will, He abides with us still, and with all who will Trust and Obey." That's the key: To know that we're walking in the light of Jesus, we must Trust and Obey!!!
Friends, It's Impossible To Walk In The Light And In Darkness At the Same Time: "Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life (John 8:12).
"And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil" (John 3:19).
How can it be said that we are walking in the light when we have to be begged to attend worship services? When we don't attend Bible classes at all? When we say to the elders or preacher, "Show me in the Bible where I HAVE to "go to church" on Sunday nights. When we have no prayer life other than at meals and perhaps when some great tragedy strikes and we happen to think of God? When we don't find time to read the Bible which is a road map to heaven? When we selfishly hold back from God, the fruits of our labors, both monetarily in cheerful giving, and in bearing precious fruit for him through our influence and teaching? When we sneak around behind the church and our families to drink, curse, read porno, go to filthy movies, dress immodestly? When we don't love the Lord enough to stand up for Him in discussions with friends? When we have no compassion on those the Lord was moved with compassion for? When we have hate in our hearts for our fellowman? Are you -- am I -- walking in the light?
..... Terry Broome
In response to interest expressed by our deacons at the last meeting on Sunday afternoon, our elders decided Monday night to move ahead with plans for a Fall Gospel Meeting instead of waiting until 2003. Instead, they've set October 27-30, Sunday through Wednesday, as the dates. This is timed to match the Saturday, October 26 Fall Festival and Vacation Bible School Reunion we announced earlier this year as a planned follow-up to VBS. Ideally, parents and students will be at our building for several hours on Saturday renewing friendships, reviewing some great VBS lessons and songs, and then enjoying a festival of fun activities planned for the boys and girls in the multi-purpose room.
The next morning we'll kick off the Gospel Meeting with your minister as the speaker by way of introduction to the Scottsboro area. We're focusing on the theme "The Home As God Would Have It" at each service. We feel this will be an inviting series of lessons as most families are focused on ways of improving relations within their individual homes.
We'll be flooding the area with advertisements, and we'll enlist the help of the entire congregation to "wake the town and tell the people." Someone asked me recently if I believed the day of Gospel Meetings was gone. My answer then and now is that it all depends on how hard we work to make them a success. When we diligently get out there and recruit attendees, and when we faithfully work on getting the entire congregation committed to participate at each service, we can indeed have a dynamic Gospel Meeting. When we go, they come!
This meeting should set the tone for an all out effort on the part of Broad Street congregation to evangelize this community. Our renewed energies with the youth work along with a new focus on the Bible school, supported by a strong image in the community for benevolent relief are strong factors in church growth. The bottom line remains, however, that we must think "evangelism." Unless we have a passion for souls, not many "fish" are just going to jump into the boat.
It's hard to market a product we don't believe in and fail to use ourselves. It's time for every member of Broad Street to commit to being faithful and zealous in the work of the Lord. A number of members only come on rare occasions. A different number come more frequently but rarely make it for the second service on Sunday. Many do not make it to any of our Bible classes. Then there are those who we can depend on every time the door is open.
The apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 4:2 "Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful." It's time we quit kidding ourselves. We are either for the Lord or we are an obstacle and thus work against the Lord. "He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad" (Matt. 12:30). "No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon" (Matt. 6:24).
..... Terry Broome
Our young people have a devotional song that declares these wonderful words of praise to God. Indeed He is an awesome God. There are qualities about Him that compel our most reverential respect for His power and glory. What a striking personality He is! Our loving Heavenly Father is not a tyrant or impersonal being, but rather one who urges us to come to Him. He's made it easy and provided the way to approach Him through Jesus Christ. We can now come reverentially as well as boldly or confidently before His throne of grace to petition for His help in our times of need. Heb. 4:14-16, "Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."
That approach is only made possible through Jesus Christ. One cannot expect a hearing from this loving, Heavenly Father, who is not in a covenant relationship with Jesus Christ. We are, afterall, children of God "through faith in Christ Jesus," (Gal. 3:26). For all of us who are so eager to ask God's help during a stressful time in our lives, we should ponder the significance of being in the right relationship with Him which entitles us to call Him Father. Unfaithfulness in one's Christian life voids our guarantee of His listening ear. "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:" (Psalms 66:18).
Ponder these great words of comfort for those who are in the right relationship with Him: The message of Psalms 31 is that we can find our refuge in God. David triumphantly proclaims in Psalms 116:1 that God "has heard my voice". In turn he was willing to "wait for the Lord" in Psalms 130:5. After Habakkuk cried out to the Lord, "how long wilt thou not hear?" (1:1), he resolves in 2:1 to "watch to see what he will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved." In essence he resolves to listen to the answer that God makes to him.
In the New Testament, the colors and traits of God are clearly seen in the form of Jesus Christ. John 14:9 "...he that hath seen me hath seen the Father." There is clarity in Jesus saying "For God so loved the world..." (John 3:16). Jesus reasons with gentleness and penetrating power in Matthew 6:26, "Behold the fowls of the air...." and "consider the lilies of the field...." (3:28). God provides for them. Will He not much more provide for you? "Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? (Mat 6:30). Why be so faithless? We must understand how much God cares for us. He knows our needs and supplies our wants (Matt. 6:32).
The personality of God reveals that He is searching for you. Jesus died for each of us on the cross. It's the Father who cares who calls us, "Come Home."
..... Terry Broome
The subject of worship should not be a controversial one, and yet it has always been so. From the beginning of time men have sought out ways of expressing themselves to deity that involved everything from boiling children in the milk of a goat to offering them in fire to appease their "gods" (II Kings 23:10).
The reality is that man is going to worship something! While a humanist might accuse believers in God of being unenlightened and superstitious, the truth is that a good humanist merely worships a different force -- that being man himself as the center of his own universe.
We're not surprised at this concept. Indeed the heathen of our Lord's day were guilty of worshipping the creature more than the Creator (Romans 1:25). This text calls to mind a drawing force that should compel all the creation to worship God, Romans 1: 20, "For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead. . ."
The hymnist is correct, "There is a God! He is alive! In Him we live and we abide." The heavens cry out of His being and call forth an expression of praise from all His creation. Only foolish man stubbornly refuses to praise Him yet not all of mankind. The Psalmist had an inner longing for God as Christians do today: Psalms 42:1 "... As the hart (deer) panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God."
We declare with David in Psa 95:1-7 "O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is his also. The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land. O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker. For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand..."
The beautiful thing is that the Father is pleased with our humble efforts to approach Him. It has nothing to do with pageantry, or riches, or works of our hands. John 4:23-24, "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth."
Someone has said, "The ideal without worship is empty, powerless theology." The converse is also true, "Worship without the ideal' (God) is idolatry." And so, most of the world lies in idolatry of one sort or another.
How grateful we should be that God has shown us appropriate ways of expressing our love and adoration for Him. The Bible clearly maps out ways of honoring God that are spiritual, uplifting, and that are pleasing to the Father. It is very important that man reach up to God in spiritual praise in a manner that is acceptable to the One who alone is worthy to be praised. Will you join us in spiritual worship to the Father this Lord's Day?
..... Terry Broome
No, we're not referring to some charismatic Holy Spirit experience. Rather, I look forward each Fall to a renewal of human spirit; a time to refocus on the local church program. After all, summer vacations are nearly over with Labor Day just around the corner. Hopefully this means more stay at home time for the entire congregation. If we can focus on being back at Broad Street for worship services on Sunday morning even when we have to be out of town for some of the weekends, we should see a tremendous boost in all our attendances.
It was very encouraging to see 354 in worship Sunday morning. We counted a score of regular attendees who were not present, and a number of new faces in the audience. It's time to press forward and leave the 285 to 301 attendances behind us and see this church grow as I know it is the will of God that we grow. In fact, for the entire summer we consistently stayed in the 330's to 340's with only a few exceptions. Even the Bible Study and evening attendances are improving.
All of this leads me to want to say to the church, we must seize the moment of opportunity when it serves. There is great potential at Broad Street for growth from three areas: we need to restore many who have totally turned away from serving the Lord; we need to actively pursue the weak and faint-hearted to encourage faithfulness; we need to enlist numerous friends and relatives in home Bible studies that will lead to the potential of seeing souls added to the Lord daily.
Our education, youth, evangelism and benevolence programs should focus on objectives of 1) saving the lost; 2) keeping the saved saved. Classes, programs of activity, and direct attempts to interest others in soul-saving Bible study will keep us moving forward.
When we mention that we know it is the will of God that we grow, we are not trying to play God. We are merely looking at His purpose for the church, visualize: to make known His manifold wisdom before principalities and powers (Eph. 3:10) and to carry the Gospel to every soul we can reach (Acts 8:4). His design is such that thousands were added to the Lord beginning at Pentecost and running throughout the remainder of the First Century.
I want to encourage each member at Broad Street to begin a personal campaign of restoring our lost brethren, and of personally speaking to someone who is not a Christian about studying the Bible together. Our committees will be presenting special outreach projects and goals, but the bottom line is that each one of us must say something to those we hope to reach. "Let the redeemed of the LORD say so . . . " (Psalms 107:2).
..... Terry Broome
Famed orators of all generations have stood out for their special abilities to stir their audiences -- men like Churchill, and even Adolph Hitler. Through oratory Sir Winston Churchill gave ceaseless encouragement to the masses of his despondent countrymen. Adolf Hitler, with his hypnotic oratory, built the National Socialist party to the largest in Germany by 1932. If one were to search for the master spokesman, however, a lone figure from the first century would have to be placed far ahead of them all -- these men whose movements lasted for so short a time.
Early in the Gospel according to Mark we learn of Jesus, the man who astonished the people with His doctrine, "...for he taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes" (Mark 1:22). "...For with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him" (Mark 1:27). "And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee" (Mark 1:28).
Here was a man who spoke powerful, convicting words, but with a note of authority not heard before. His words were accompanied with powerful evidence: "...what manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?" the disciples pondered (Mark 4:41).
Jesus as spokesman attracted the masses all around Galilee. Matthew 4:23 tells of His teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom. "And his fame went throughout all Syria." This occasioned what we fondly call the "Sermon on the Mount." Here the master orator sat, as a teacher of His time would, with the learners at His feet. He taught them, not with a hypnotic voice or with catchy peace slogans and campaign slogans, but with a kind compassionate voice. "When he was come down from the mountains, great multitudes followed him" (Matt. 8:1).
This man spoke to the masses and they followed Him, and He offered them life. It was His mission to shepherd a shepherdless flock, and His speeches reflected this. "And the people saw them departing, and many knew him, and ran afoot thither out of all cities, and outwent them, and came together unto him. And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things" (Mark 6:33-34).
On the occasion of Mark 8:1,2 when he fed those who had followed him for three days, we learn that Jesus not only was a man of powerful words, but that He had a genuine love for His followers. Here was one who would ultimately lay down His life for them. This distinguishes Him from other great orators who have motivated large numbers of people to die for them and for "their" cause. Instead, Jesus died for the masses!
The prophecy of Isaiah 2:1-3 saw fulfillment as people turned to the Messiah to be taught. We can enjoy the blessings of its fulfillment even today. Isaiah pictured the Kingdom established and all nations flowing unto it to be taught by the Lord.
We are so privileged to have the recorded words of the Master to lead us to life today. "The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life" (John 6:63). May we grow closer to our Heavenly Father as we study Jesus' teachings, for truly, "...never man spake like this man" (John 7:46).
..... Terry Broome
Children are so precious, and so open about their feelings. You never have to wonder how they feel about a thing. Their faces and their questions tell all; and in some cases, children stay children for a very long time. For instance: Johnnie and Suzie were busy playing their favorite game when Mother interrupted them to remind Johnnie that he was supposed to wash the supper dishes. His face contorted in pain, and his voice almost screamed his disgust as he cried, "Ah, Mom, what about Suzie? Why do I have to always be the one?" Of course you can imagine Mom's answer: "Never mind about Suzie! You do as I say or I'll dust your breeches."
The odd thing is that Johnnie and Suzie could pretty well be any age, and one could still expect the same reaction---whether 4 years old or 17!!. In some ways, even adults are pronged to whine, "But what about him? Or her?" Soon after Jesus was resurrected, Peter and the rest of the apostles went fishing (as recorded in John 21). Jesus took advantage of this day and this setting to spend some valuable time with them before going back to heaven. This was the occasion when they fished all night and caught nothing, until Jesus came along and instructed them to cast their nets on the right side of the ship. That's when they caught their nets full---153 fish! After building a fire and feasting on the fish, our Lord quizzed Simon three times whether he loved Jesus. Peter began to see that genuine love for the master involved service as he was told all three times: "Feed my lambs (sheep)."
Then the Lord laid down a startling measure of service for which Peter wasn't ready to commit just yet. It was a picture of total commitment (John 21: 18-19). Peter would eventually die for the faith! Much like the story of the Hen and the Pig. The hen said to the pig, "The farmer is very low. We've had this great drought. He's had a loss of crops. Let's cheer him up. I'll provide the eggs, You provide the ham, and we'll prepare a great breakfast for him. The pig saw a flaw in the plan and replied, "It seems to me that you're willing to make a sacrifice for the farmer, but you're asking me to make a total commitment!!"
The Lord wasn't just asking Peter to serve -- to sacrifice -- but to make a total commitment!! Peter was so human one could almost predict how he would react (21:20-21) "Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do?"
Can't you just picture it. Peter has his own private conversation with Jesus, but when he finds out how difficult "service" really is, and what a price he'll have to pay, he wants to know: "What about Him?" "Why Me Lord?" "It isn't fair!" The chilling answer in verse 22 reminds us all that their comes a time when we must step forward and answer the call to follow Jesus AND QUIT WORRYING ABOUT WHAT THE OTHER FELLOW IS GOING TO DO! "Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? Follow THOU me." The call to follow Jesus is a call to be willing to pay the ultimate price EVEN IF NO ONE ELSE DOES!
..... Terry Broome
I read a fable once concerning a mouse which lived in the home of a magician. The mouse was in constant fear of cats. Taking pity on the mouse, the magician changed it into a cat, but immediately it developed a fear of dogs. Then the magician turned the mouse / cat into a dog, only to observe that it now feared lions. The magician mercifully turned the mouse / cat / dog into a lion, but in the form of a lion it trembled at the sight of hunters. Thereupon the magician bellowed, "Out upon you! Be a mouse again! You have only the heart of a mouse!"
Perhaps the magician learned what we all need to know -- Even if we have the "magic" to change the outer form (like cosmetic surgery does) if the heart isn't changed, one's true nature still comes through. There was still a mouse's heart in the lion. We can't help but remember the words of sacred Scripture: Prov. 23:7 "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he." Also Prov. 4:23, "For out of the heart are the issues of life."
One cannot become a lion in the Kingdom of Heaven if he maintains the heart of a mouse! The fainthearted, fearful, doubtful, and unbelieving are spoken of in Rev. 21:8 along with the abominable, idolaters, and liars, that they "shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone..." The writer of Hebrews (3:19) states that the reason Israel did not inherit the promised land sooner was for "unbelief"!
To become the kind of conqueror that Paul described in Romans 8:35-37, radical surgery must be performed -- a virtual heart transplant!! If we just had a genie or magician to blink us into a state of change!! But there are no magicians -- Only Christ can give us the heart of a lion!! He can equip us to be "more than conquerors through Him that loved us." (Rom. 8:37).
Yes, a conqueror must have a "heart" change (Romans 12:1-2). The lion was just a "mouse" at heart. Some professed Christians still have the sinners heart. Some still have a heart in love with the world, 1 Jno. 2:15b "...if any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in Him." Some still have fearful and unbelieving hearts. Heb. 4:11 "Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief."
There is no room for "Faint-Hearted Christians." Jesus never intended that we be fearful. 2 Tim 1:7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear....."
However, for those of us who have a heart changing surgery by Jesus Christ: 2 Cor 4:16 "For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day." Christ wants us to be conquerors in His army! Overcomers of the world!! He has equipped us to become just that as Christians, and to overcome the sin that so easily besets us. "We are more than conquerors -- Overcomers in this life; We've been made victorious: through the blood of Jesus Christ.
..... Terry Broome
"Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind" (Matthew 22:37) -- The greatest commandment in all the world, and one that might be fairly easy to fulfill if it weren't for that one little word -- ALL. Most of our readers would eagerly proclaim that we love the Lord, but might cringe a bit when we're asked to be truthful as to whether we love Him with ALL our hearts, souls, and minds. This all-consuming love would surely change the complexion of our brotherhood today. This is TRUE dedication!
When one thinks of loving God with all the heart, we're reminded of Col. 3:1, "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above...." We must set our affections on the heavenly and spiritual things to love God that way. Furthermore, we would have to enthrone God in the heart, 1 Peter 3:15, "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts; and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear." Anyway you look at it, God has to take first place in our affections and our meditations.
When our Lord speaks of heart, soul, and mind, we might struggle to understand the sense in which He uses these words. Certainly "all the heart" must regard all our affections. "All the soul" encompasses our spiritual nature; and "all our mind" speaks to all our thoughts and intellectual processes that must be brought into submission to His Truths. He leaves nothing out. When one sings "All to Jesus, I Surrender," he is echoing the spirit and intent of Matthew 22:37.
Someone has suggested that this kind of dedication is the missing ingredient to personal Christianity. In the First Century, the disciples went everywhere preaching the Word. During their generation, the Gospel was preached "to every creature which is under heaven" (Col 1:23). Contemporaries of First Century Christians (such as the Romans) were largely indifferent to religion, yet Christians had a tremendous influence on these lives. In Acts 17:6 they were described as "having turned the world upside down."
You and I must say "Yes" to Jesus. We must submit to His will. We must be dedicated to His truths in prayer, compassion, and service. The fate of billions of people on planet Earth hinges on their being introduced to the Lord Jesus Christ. The hope of that ever happening lies within our hands. "Into our hands the Gospel is given. Into our hands is given the light. Haste, let us carry God's precious message, guiding the erring back to the right."
..... Terry Broome
What do you suppose is the most misunderstood page in all the Bible? There are, no doubt, many different answers. Some would argue that one of the pages from Revelation, Daniel or Zechariah with images and prophecies must certainly be the hardest. Others would choose pages containing some of the many doctrinal passages that seem to generate such controversy visualize: baptism, the incarnation of "God in the flesh," and such like.
This writer has found a much simpler page to actually be equally as confusing to the casual reader. It's the page at the end of Malachi and prior to Matthew chapter 1 that is inscribed "The New Testament of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."
There is much misunderstanding as to what this actually means. Most folks think that Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are actually New Testament books, but in reality they describe a time very much in the latter portion of the Old Testament period or Covenant of God with His people the Jews. It's not until one gets to the cross of Christ at the end of these records that he actually moves into the New Testament or covenant time period. Note Hebrews 9:16-17: "For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth."
The four Gospel accounts of the life of Christ find Him living and dying in the Old Testament time period, faithful to all the Law of Moses; preparing His disciples for the coming Kingdom and New Covenant; and fulfilling both the prophecies and the purpose of the Old Testament. It was necessary for Him to die for His New Testament Will to come into effect.
One significance of this is that I cannot go to episodes like the thief on the cross to discount specific commandments of the Lord in the New Testament such as "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins," (Acts 2:38). Christ was very much alive at the point of speaking to the thief, "today thou shalt be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43). Whether the thief was or was not baptized has no bearing at all on Acts 2:38 and it's relevance to you and me. The thief lived AND DIED under the old covenant. You and I live under the terms of His New Testament.
A misunderstanding of this change from the Old to the New Covenant has also caused men to use the Old Testament to justify many practices that were not ordained by the Lord for the New Testament church. Examples of these would be: Sabbath Day observance, instruments of music, ceremonial worship, and a separate priesthood.
Paul admonishes us to "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (II Timothy 2:15).
..... Terry Broome
While Paul and Silas sang praises to God from within the Roman jail at midnight, a jailer slept while on guard-duty, unaware, no doubt, of the importance of the hour. Little did he realize that he would soon encounter the mighty power of God. This man understood authority, power, responsibility. He was answerable with his very life for the prisoners in this dungeon to those who had authority over him. Soon he was to witness a power that superceded that of Roman emperors, Roman idols, and Roman chains. In response to this power he would eagerly do whatever it took for salvation.
When this Philippian jailer of Acts 16 felt the earthquake, saw the jail cells opened and the chains removed from his prisoners -- but that they had not escaped, he recognized he was not dealing with ordinary people or ordinary powers. We cannot understand that he immediately knew all the answers. I doubt seriously if he even understood all the questions. He just knew that he had experienced an encounter with a genuine and ultimate authority -- the real thing. He was at least vaguely aware that he was dealing with a power greater than the Roman government and all the Roman "gods" combined.
Whatever he knew, whatever he meant by the question, he immediately sought the answer to what has no doubt brought more sermons to their conclusion than any other, "What Must I Do To Be Saved?" Undoubtedly, this is the most important question ever asked in the whole existence of mankind. The answer to this question will determine where one spends eternity.
The answer recorded in Acts 16:31 is the hope of the world: "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house." This man did not already, and could not start believing in one whom he did not even know. He had to be introduced to Jesus. "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?" (Romans 10:13-14). So verse 32 of Acts 16 continues the message of salvation: "And they spake unto him the word of the Lord..." He was so convinced of this "word of the Lord" that he was baptized into Jesus that very same hour of the night.
How can there be so much disagreement in the religious world on such an important subject as salvation. We can only wish that everyone would be as sincere as the jailer was. In essence his message was, "Lord, I'll do anything it takes." There was no argument about it. He was baptized that very same hour of the night. Let us all maintain that same open and willing mind in our search for salvation.
..... Terry Broome
On July 4, 1776, our forefathers penned what has become the benchmark document of our nation's history. The Declaration of Independence has stood for two plus centuries as a representation of every good and noble thought in the heart of those who were establishing a nation where all men could be treated equally; where men could express without fear of reprisal their faith in God; where "all men were endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights."
Ours' was a nation founded on principles that our fathers believed were guaranteed by God Himself!! It was not their desire to impose a forced state religion on any man, but that all men would be free to express their religion without fear of the state. Instead of a "separation of church and state" where the state is protected from the influence of an individual's religion, individuals were guaranteed a protection of the church from the state. The phrase "separation of church and state" is more an interpretation than a quote from the Constitution. It is a faulty interpretation. Our founding fathers never intended to isolate the state from the influence of religious people and from God.
Just this past week, courts have been heard to strike a blow at the phrase "One Nation Under God" in our pledge of allegiance. Threats have been made to challenge "In God We Trust" on our currency. It remains to be seen how this will all play out in the highest court in the land, but we can know full well that a nation has weakened it's foundation who bans God from it's claim to a right of existence.
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance" (Psalms 33:12).
"Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain" (Psalms 127:1).
Not only does the dollar bill and the pledge of allegiance proclaim these mottos, but another besides. The little phrase "Annuit Coeptis" which appears over the eye in the triangle of the dollar bill has a rich meaning as well. Literally, the meaning is that "it" (the eye of Providence) is favorable to our undertakings. Providence, or God, has favored our undertakings.
Our concept of independence and freedom came from, and are best understood in the context of, creation and a Creator. Our Declaration of Independence insists there are "unalienable rights" which means rights that are undeniably and irrevocably ours. They recognized that these came from our Creator. If the state gives us rights, the state also has the power to take them away. The only force in the world that can give us rights that are irrevocable and cannot be taken away from us by a mere decree of a state is the Creator who has the power to give such rights. Our founding fathers new this. May we pray that our courts will learn it before it is too late.
..... Terry Broome
Early in the history of our great nation, President John Quincy Adams called both Houses of Congress together for a special meeting. He brought with him two "bushel" baskets, one from South Carolina, the other from New York. In comparing the measures, one bushel had 68 cubic inches more than the other one.
After allowing the implications of this discrepancy to sink in, he then produced two one-pound weights, one from Massachusetts, the other from Maine. There was nearly a full ounce difference between them. "Gentlemen," he said, "we need a standard measurement and a standard weight for the United States of America." The result was the establishment of the "Bureau of Weights and Measures." We now can know that if we buy a pound of meat, we will all get the same number of ounces, whether in Georgia, California, Texas or Maine.
There is a serious religious implication for us in this illustration. When an individual consults men of one "faith" about religious questions, he will find a totally different set of answers than upon consulting another. No wonder we cannot all speak alike, and be one in "the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ." We all have consulted different standards of measurements! The truth is that we are very much in need of a standard measuring stick that each one can consult---something by which we can measure ourselves to see if we are living as God desires. Without a proper measurement, we each are left to determine for ourselves what is acceptable. The wise prophet of old indicated that "it is not in man that walketh to direct his own steps," (Jer. 10:23). We need a guide, a road map.
God's standard measurement for mankind is His inspired Word. From the declarations of the Psalmist David in Psalms 119:105, to the very words of our Lord in John 17:17, God's Word is heralded as "Truth." "Sanctify them through thy truth. Thy Word is Truth." Men may have different opinions, thoughts, and ideas, but more importantly to a truth seeker is, "What does God say about the matter?"
In Matthew 21:23-27, the chief priests and elders of the people inquired of Jesus, "By what authority doest thou these things?" His response is a masterpiece for our consideration: "The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven or from men?" (v.25). These brilliant scholars were dumbfounded! The best answer they could offer was, "We cannot tell," (verse 27). Why was that? "If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why did ye not then believe him? But if we shall say, Of men; we fear the people; for all hold John as a prophet" (verses 25-26).
The question was more than just about John's baptism, but about basic Bible authority. They were forced to acknowledge, or reject, the teaching based on whether it was "from heaven or from men." They didn't like their choices, but choices had to be made nonetheless.
We fear that too many people today take things for granted, and have not paused to consider the origin and authority of their convictions and practices. For instance, the worship in which you engage: is it "from heaven or from men?" The baptism by which you were baptized, is it "from heaven or from men?" The religious name by which you are called, is it "from heaven or from men?" When we stand before the judgment bar of God, we shall not be judged by the decisions of religious councils and doctrines of men . "He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day," (John 12:48).
..... Terry Broome
To do the work that the Lord has given us to do, we have a strong need for one another. The church is particularly set up in such a way as to meet the heart-felt needs of each other. We must not limit ourselves to a "go-it-alone" philosophy when that route is already destined to failure. The wise man Solomon wrote in the long ago: "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up." (Eccl 4:9 KJV)
I believe the Apostle Paul was reinforcing this attitude among the churches when he wrote in 1 Corinthians 3:9, "For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building." Then again, he writes in 2 Corinthians 6:1, "We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain."
Our family concept, or team concept is vital to the success of this great congregation. It fosters an atmosphere of love and "one another" service. Those of you who have signed up to be members of the various work teams will play an instrumental role in what takes place in the near future of Broad Street. It's thrilling that during this very week 3 such team meetings are to be conducted and a fourth one is being announced out of the 6 areas of work you have volunteered for. Remember that there is a Biblical basis for group efforts in church matters. 1 Corinthians 3:9 teaches that "We are labourers." "We are labourers together." "We are labourers together with God."
To work as a family, we must learn how to treat one another. Evangelism is most effective in a church atmosphere full of love and service. "Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another." (Romans 12:10). When Christians are kind and patient with each other, they protray the Spirit of Christ to the world. Our world will not be won unless Christians love each other.
There are some key points to remember about all the service areas that are being activated. They provide us with a closer circle of friends within the church than we might ordinarily experience. They help strengthen weak members. They help us to unite as the family of god. They help us to minister to the needs of our fellow-man. They help us to be steadfast in the Lord's business. They help us to go to heaven and encourage as many people as we can to go with us. Be diligent in your commitment to serving God in this family. Let's enjoy growing together. There is much to do, there's work on every hand!!!! Thank the Lord there are also so many willing workers in this place!
..... Terry Broome
Some of my happiest childhood memories are of attending Vacation Bible School. I'm not sure I can even remember the first one I went to, but I distinctly remember that by 4th Grade I was a regular attender. Dad preached in Resaca, Georgia and took all our family plus those who would go with us to Dalton for VBS. Elbert Henry was the preacher there at that time and now lives in the Huntsville area. He came through and visited us at Broad Street a few weeks ago and it was a sweet reunion.
The next distinct memory of VBS was up in Battle Creek, Michigan while in the 5th - 6th Grade, and then in Albany, Georgia the summer before the 7th Grade. Well you get the idea. VBS stands out in my mind both with the year and the place. What I won't bore you with are the exciting details I can remember of each one of the VBS's. I can, however, remember even today, some of the lessons we were taught back then. I first became interested in Paul's missionary journeys through VBS one summer when I was just 11 years old.
No, this article is not about me. It's about the benefit of enrolling children in Vacation Bible School. Students will learn lessons there which will follow them for a lifetime. There are at least three streams of attitudes about having VBS this day and time. One says that we are just much too busy and should lighten the schedule by leaving them off. The other says that we must have one because we always have and we don't want to be accused of being the generation that "dropped the ball." The third is a new breed of VBS planners who truly believe these are life formative experiences and that we ought to go to great extents in our efforts to create learning situations for our children. Thanks be to God there is a renewed energy and zeal that I'm witnessing in churches from Mobile, Alabama to Franklin, Tennessee, and parts unknown to me, to provide the most memorable of experiences for the children.
I'm so happy to find that spirit prevailing at Broad Street. I don't know when I've seen so much energy by so many people, carefully organized, and sharing a common love for the boys and girls. Parents, YOU ARE IN FOR A TREAT AS YOU BRING YOUR BOYS AND GIRLS TO OUR VBS!! The theme is entitled, "ARE WE THERE YET?" And takes our students on a journey from "grumble" to "humble." Lessons from the Israelites will give our teachers ample opportunity to demonstrate how to turn life's difficult moments into a realization of the way God blesses us. Our students will learn many Bible verses, and many Bible precepts that should affect how they view the hard times as well as the good times in their lives.
Please support our Vacation Bible School this next week from 9 A.M. until Noon, and come to the special Friday night program from 6:30 P.M. til 7:15 with an ice cream supper to follow. I'll be seeing you down front each morning!!
..... Terry Broome
These words suggest many thoughts to me this morning as I sit in a finally completely unpacked office and review what's taken place over the past several weeks. For me personally, and I hope for the church at Broad Street, we have been given a clean slate a new beginning in our work together. It's up to us what we will record on that slate. There is something exhilarating about a fresh start that I hope we can seize and build on. There is an "air" of expectancy surrounding us. We should each one of us focus on what we will do with this marvelous time in our history. I've often thought back on Esther and Mordecai's charge to her in Esther 4:14, "For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Emphasis mine, TLB). I choose to believe that we've been brought together for this very special time in our work.
The church here has a colorful history. You've been guided throughout the years by men of vision, many already departed into eternity. Great preachers have filled this pulpit and wonderful works have been accomplished for the glory of God. We all have our history to look back on with either gratification or disappointment. The point is that we cannot live in that past. God has given us "such a time as this" to live in and continue to pursue great things for His glory. We can build on that past; learn from the successes and failures; receive motivation to want to do even better; or we can be satisfied with the journey we've taken and fail to see the excitement of really living in the present. I for one choose to press on. I believe that is the spirit I see present at Broad Street.
There is an "air" of enthusiasm here that caught my attention. Nine elders are excited about the upcoming Work Plan. Many members have signed up to be a part of various important roles in ministry to one another. Worship services are uplifting. The singing has been absolutely beautiful. There has been an enthusiastic response to fellowships. We have enjoyed 4 already since arriving here the first of May. They have encouraged me that there is much love in this church. The voices of 100+ singers in our devotional out at the lake last Saturday in spite of the cold wind was a highlight of the month for me. The workers who prepared all that marvelous food for the fish supper were fantastic in their volunteer spirit.
Our very first "kick-off" Sunday on May 5 was another highlight of extended fellowship (both during and beyond worship). I don't know when I've seen so much food for the luncheon, and the great majority of the church stayed for the fellowship meal after the morning services. Then this past Sunday evening a large number of friends and family stayed to honor our graduates. We had a wonderful time and were especially blessed by Sarah Cunningham's selection of "Memories."
A couple of weeks before that we had a marvelous turn out for the young adults fellowship at the home of Philip and Bridget Street. I think about 27 were present. Kathy and I were thrilled to begin learning more about the younger families in the church. We hated to miss the very first of the "Classics" get-togethers that Ralph and Tammy Cook put together. This is certainly a loving and caring church.
I cannot say enough about the enthusiasm of the VBS committee. These ladies who are planning a spectacular production are to be commended for both vision, skill, and energy. They have it all!!
Thank you for the chance to have "a new beginning." I pray that the Father will help us take fullest advantage of every opportunity to build, grow, wins souls, and secure eternal salvation. "Father, please bless our coming to Scottsboro, Alabama "for such a time as this."
..... Terry Broome
The subject of worship should not be a controversial one, and yet it has always been so. From the beginning of time men have sought out ways of expressing themselves to deity that involved everything from boiling children in the milk of a goat to offering them in fire to appease their "gods" (II Kings 23:10).
The reality is that man is going to worship something! While a humanist might accuse believers in God of being unenlightened and superstitious, the truth is that a good humanist merely worships a different force -- that being man himself as the center of his own universe.
We're not surprised at this concept. Indeed the heathen of our Lord's day were guilty of worshipping the creature more than the Creator (Romans 1:25). This text calls to mind a drawing force that should compel all the creation to worship God, Romans 1: 20, "For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead. . ."
The hymnist is correct, "There is a God! He is alive! In Him we live and we abide." The heavens cry out of His being and call forth an expression of praise from all His creation. Only foolish man stubbornly refuses to praise Him, yet not all of mankind. The Psalmist had an inner longing for God as Christians do today: Psalms 42:1 "... As the hart (deer) panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God."
We declare with David in Psa 95:1-7 "O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is his also. The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land. O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker. For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand..."
The beautiful thing is that the Father is pleased with our humble efforts to approach Him. It has nothing to do with pageantry, or riches, or works of our hands. John 4:23-24, "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth."
Someone has said, "The ideal without worship is empty, powerless theology." The converse is also true, "Worship without the ideal' (God) is idolatry." And so, most of the world lies in idolatry of one sort or another.
How grateful we should be that God has shown us appropriate ways of expressing our love and adoration for Him. The Bible clearly maps out ways of honoring God that are spiritual, uplifting, and that are pleasing to the Father. It is very important that man reach up to God in spiritual praise in a manner that is acceptable to the One who alone is worthy to be praised.
I look forward to seeing each of the Broad Street family and sharing in worship services at each service this Lord's Day.
..... Terry Broome
The Broad Street congregation has honored us very highly in asking us to move to Scottsboro and work with you. We have been extremely impressed with the friendliness of this congregation and we thank you from the depths of our hearts for your warm reception of the Broome family. We will strive to live before you in such a manner that you will never have reason to doubt or regret your decision to invite us into your lives. We are only too human and will need your tender mercies along the way, but you can count on it that we will never take our responsibilities lightly.
We are eager for moving day this coming Monday, April 29, with our scheduled arrival on Tuesday morning, April 30. Kathy will be in and out of town for the first three weeks as she finishes her school year on May 24 at Mars Hill Bible School where she teaches in the pre-school department. As we get settled in we look forward to coming into your homes, and most certainly welcome you into ours.
We're also very anxious for you to meet the rest of our immediate family. Tera is married to Chris Pressnell. They work with the Flint congregation in Decatur, Alabama where Chris serves as minister. She's a wife, mother of two girls and a boy, school teacher, and faithful Christian. David is our oldest son. He and Sharon have a beautiful Christian family with a son and a daughter. Sharon is a former High School Biology teacher who prefers her role as mother and homemaker. They live in Thompson Station just outside of Franklin, Tennessee where David is a computer program writer. Michael has recently married Christie, both students at Freed Hardeman University. He will graduate on May 11 and she in early August. They plan to move back into the Nashville area where he will pursue a career in Public Relations and Communications, she in marketing. We hope the children and their families will drop in at Broad Street from time to time to share in your wonderful hospitality and the spiritually uplifting worship services.
From the earliest memories that flood my soul, Gospel preaching thrilled and challenged my heart. Great men of God who knew, loved and proclaimed the Word of God inspired me to search the Scriptures for myself and to proclaim the unsearchable riches of Christ (Ephesians 3:8). I've had the good fortune of being raised around preachers who loved their work and helped me gain a passion for preaching. My father is a dedicated Gospel preacher with a faithful wife by his side. Together they've worked for the Lord's cause for 47 years.
I've been convinced and I've witnessed it over and over again, "Faith comes by hearing....the Word of God" (Romans 10:17). To produce faith, the Word must be preached and taught. I accept the challenge and welcome the opportunity to preach God's Word to those who are in Scottsboro, Alabama. Let us be "laborers together with God" (1 Corinthians 3:9).
..... Terry Broome