What The Bible Says

Vol. I - No. 19 / February 10, 2019

"NOT OF WORKS..." (Eph. 2:9)

    Many people believe and teach very strongly that the salvation of our souls is not dependent whatsoever on works. They are quick to quote Ephesians 2:8,9 as their proof. Yet, verse 10 says, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." How can our salvation not be dependent on works when God has created us unto GOOD WORKS and has ordained (decreed) that we should WALK IN THEM? Could it be that the "works" mentioned in verse nine are of a certain kind or type of works that will not save us? This must be so or else the Scriptures contradict themselves. Therefore, it is for us to search out what the Scriptures teach concerning the works that will not save us as opposed to the good works that God has created us to walk (live) in. To simply make a blanket statement that "works have nothing to do with saving us" is a doctrine of man and not founded upon the pages of God's word.

    The Scriptures are very clear to point out the type of works that will NOT SAVE us:

   WORKS OF THE LAW OF MOSES. "And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses." (Acts 13:39). "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.” (Galatians 2:16). To justify such works as observing the Sabbath or using mechanical instruments of music in worship to God based on Old Testament teaching are works that will not save us despite our sincerity.

   WORKS OF OUR OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS. "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;” (Titus 3:5). "For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God." (Romans 10:3). Anything you, I, or anyone else concocts and makes it a matter of faith, is our “own righteousness". Only God's commandments are righteousness (Psalms 119:172). In Jesus' day, the Pharisees made the washing of hands a religious act. This was of their own righteousness and Jesus sternly rebuked them for it (Matthew 15:1,2). Whenever we establish our own righteousness, we likewise transgress the commandment of God. Again, doing works of our own righteousness will never save us regardless of how long we’ve done them or how sincere we may be.

   DEAD/WICKED WORKS. "Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God," (Hebrews 6:1) "How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?" (Hebrews 9:14). "And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled.” (Colossians 1:21). Dead/wicked works are the "evil deeds" that are spoken of in such passages as John 3:19, 20 and 2 John 1:11. Dead/wicked works will never save us even though "everybody is doing it" is sometimes given as justification.

    At the same time, the Scriptures teach the kind of works that are pleasing to God:

   THE WORKS OF GOD. "Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent." (John 6:28,29). These folks must have had a better understanding about the necessity of works than some people today. Those who teach "works have nothing to do with saving us" would have never asked this question. Why ask such a question when works aren't important, according to them? There are things that God commands or requires. When we do those things, we are doing a work but it is not a work of our own righteousness nor is it a dead or wicked work. It is a work of God because it originated from God. These two verses also point out something very strange. The same folks that say "works have nothing to do with saving you", teach that you must have faith. Well, these verses tell us that faith is a work! Oh, but, if I hear them correctly, they're saying, "Works don't save us!" If that is true, we can be saved without faith because faith is a work. Do you see the dilemma that is created when we begin to use one scripture against another? The Scriptures harmonize! They do not contradict!

   GOOD WORKS. "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10). God's design, when He created us, was for us to engage in good works. That is what He wants us to "walk in" or, in other words, that is how He wants us to live. The Holy Scriptures have been given to us so that we might know what these "good works" are. "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto ALL GOOD WORKS."

    If "works have nothing to do with saving us" as so many people believe, why did Jesus command His disciples to "Let your light so shine before men, that they may SEE YOUR GOOD WORKS, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)? Why did He teach: "For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall REWARD EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO HIS WORKS." (Matthew 16:27)? Why are we commanded to "...walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in EVERY GOOD WORK, and increasing in the knowledge of God;" (Colossians 1:10)? Why was Titus instructed to tell Christians: "Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to BE READY TO EVERY GOOD WORK," (Titus 3:1)? We must not just be hearers of God's Word but doers. "But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a DOER OF THE WORK, this man shall be blessed in his deed." (James 1:21).

    If "works have nothing to do with saving us", why are we told to be careful to maintain good works? "This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might BE CAREFUL TO MAINTAIN GOOD WORKS. These things are good and profitable unto men." (Titus 3:8). "And let ours also LEARN TO MAINTAIN GOOD WORKS for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful." (Titus 3:14).

    If works isn’t necessary, what about these verses that have to do with the Judgement Day: "Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; WHOSE END SHALL BE ACCORDING TO THEIR WORKS." (2 Cor. 11:15). "Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord REWARD HIM ACCORDING TO HIS WORKS:" (2 Tim. 4:14). "And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and THEIR WORKS DO FOLLOW THEM." (Rev. 14:13).

    Let no one misunderstand; the Scriptures teach salvation is by grace (Eph. 2:5), by the blood of Christ (Matthew 26:26), by faith (Romans 5:1), and by hope (Romans 8:24). Salvation is also by works. "Ye see then how that BY WORKS A MAN IS JUSTIFIED, and not by faith only." (James 2:24). Let's understand the Scriptures so that they harmonize. Truth will always harmonize! Error will always contradict! Study and see for yourself.
—E.R. Hall, Jr.

"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. I - No. 17 / January 27, 2019

DO YOU PRAY DURING THE WORSHIP SERVICES?

    The worshipper who would pray in the assembly must do more than bow his head and close his eyes. He must pray. "Otherwise, if you bless with the spirit, how will he who occupies the place of  the uniformed say 'Amen' at your giving of thanks, since he does not understand what you say?" (I Corinthians 14:16). This verse suggests four requirements if one is to enter into a prayer. 

1. He must listen to the prayer. One cannot legitimately say "Amen" at the conclusion of a prayer if he has not listened to the prayer. "Mind-wandering" is an ever-present problem. We sing, but we don't observe the words of the song. We bow our heads, but we don't listen to the prayer. We sit through the sermon, but our minds wander to things of an earthly nature. Consequently, we attend worship periods, but we don't worship as we ought. If one is to pray, with the congregation, he must listen to the prayer. 
2. He must understand the prayer. When a man in the first century led a prayer in an unknown tongue, the worshiper could not say "Amen," for he could not understand the language in which the prayer was spoken. Neither could the worshiper say "Amen" today if the leader has not spoken loudly enough to be heard or if he has used words or phrases which the worshiper does not understand. Those who lead prayers in the assembly should be conscious of the needs of the whole congregation, speaking up where all can hear and using words which all can understand. 
3. He must agree with the prayer. A number of years ago, while sitting beside an older preacher, I observed his saying "Yes" or "Yes, Lord" at the conclusion of each separate phrase of the prayer as it was being led. He spoke the words softly enough that I was probably the only one in the assembly who could hear them, but I was impressed. Obviously, this brother was listening to every phrase, determining whether or not he agreed with the phrase, and was then softly speaking his agreement. He was not just sitting through a prayer; he was praying. Occasionally, we hear sentiments expressed in prayer with which we do not agree. To these sentiments we cannot say "Amen."
4. He must say "Amen." The word "Amen" means "so let it be." We long to hear the strong, resounding "Amen" at the close of prayers which we used to hear. We fear that the move away from this practice is just another step toward cold, lifeless formality in our worship periods. We are not contending, however, that one must say the word "Amen" audibly; but we are suggesting that at least in his mind he should say "Amen," thus making the prayer his own prayer. He has listened to the prayer; he has understood the prayer; he has agreed with the prayer; now he speaks to God his "Amen" or approval of the prayer as his prayer. In this manner, he unites with other worshipers in common prayer unto God. 

—Bill Hall

IF ONLY...

    If only my boss wouldn't be so rude and domineering, I would be more cooperative at work. "Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable" (1 Pet. 2:18).

    If only my husband weren't so lazy and self-centered, if only he would learn to control his temper better, I would live with him. "...wives, be submissive to your husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior" (1 Pet. 3:1-2).

    If only the brethren were friendlier and that preacher not so dry, I would go to church more often. "...let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another..." (Heb. 10:24-25).

    If only I had more income and less bills, I would give a lot more. "...in the churches of Macedonia...in a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality" (2 Cor. 8:1-2).

    If only my family would be more supportive, I would become a Christian. "He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me..." (Mt. 10:37).

    Do you notice that what God expects of us, He expects regardless of our particular circumstances? Instead of excusing our-selves due to adverse conditions, let us commit ourselves to our Creator and Benefactor. If only we would be like Jesus, who said, "...I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me" (Jn. 5:30). He not only said it, He lived it - even to the point of death.

—Frank Himmel

ALEXANDER CAMPBELL AND THE CHURCH

    I have been asked if I knew that Alexander Campbell started the church of Christ. I always reply, "No! I didn't know that and apparently the apostle Paul didn't know it either because in Romans 16:16 he said, ‘...The churches of Christ salute you.'"

    How could Paul have written the book of Romans in approximately 60 AD and refer to the Lord's church as "the churches of Christ" and Alexander Campbell wasn't born until 1788 AD?

    Something else of interest is a picture I have in my possession. It is the tomb rock of a "William Rogers born in Campbell Co. Va. July 7, 1784, removed with his father to Cane Ridge Bourbon Co. April 1798. United with the church of Christ at Cane Ridge in 1807. Died Feb. 15, 1862. In the 78th year of his age." Alexander Campbell would have only been 19 years of age when Mr. Rogers became a member of the church of Christ at Cane Ridge, Ky. The truth: Alexander Campbell did not start the church that is of Christ.
—E.R. Hall, Jr.

SENTENCE SERMONS

In trying times -- don't quit trying!
***
Every crisis in life makes us bitter or better -- it's our choice.
***
He who angers you controls you.
***
Example is a language that anyone can read.

"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. I - No. 17 / January 13, 2019

HOW TO EVALUATE A CONGREGATION

    How do you evaluate a congregation? We all do it. We decide that a particular church is "good", another is "so-so", and yet another is not what we like at all. While we understand that such judgments are natural and necessary, our concern is about the basis upon which we make these choices. We have heard Christians who make comments like:

    a. “That church is not friendly.”
    b. “The preacher preaches too long."
    c. “They keep the building too hot/cold."

Or, on the positive side:

    1. “They have activities for young folks.”
    2. “They have a lot of get-togethers."
    3. "We like to hear that song leader."
 
    Would you like to know the true basis for determining a "good" church? Let Jesus show you. Read the letters to the seven church of Asia (Revelation 2 & 3). Two of those seven churches (Smyrna and Philadelphia) receive high praise and no rebuke. Both of those churches were commended for their dedicated stand for the truth, even in the face of persecution. There's no hint of the superficial social activity that so many people are looking for. These were simply congregations that took a strong stand for the truth and demonstrated a die-hard conviction for what was right.

    Would you have been happy as a member at Smyrna or Philadelphia? We can't guarantee that the folks there were overtly "friendly" or that there were lots of "get-togethers" or that the singing was topnotch. They were just dedicated Christians doing their spiritual work. Would this be enough for you? It was for Jesus!
—Greg Gwin
Via THE BEACON 1-8-19

CHURCH MARQUES

   The outdoor signs, which many churches have in front of their buildings, reveal much about their beliefs and practices. One I passed the other day said, "By The Authority Of God's Word, I Am A Blood Bought Child Of The King". If I understand the meaning, they are saying that what they did to become a child of the King is authorized by God in His word. That is, indeed, a wonderful and beautiful statement; IF IT IS TRUE!

    Being familiar with the denomination which made this statement, here is what they practice in the matter of becoming a child of the King: "The repentance which the Gospel requires includes a deep conviction, a penitential sorrow, an open confession, a decided hatred, and an entire forsaking of all sin. This repentance God has enjoined on all men; and without it in this life the sinner must perish eternally.” THE FREE WILL BAPTIST TREATISE, Chapter IX, Article 106,107. "All men are required to believe in Christ, and those who yield obedience to this requirement become the children of God by faith." Ibid, Chapter X, Article 114. Thus, their belief and practice is to be saved by repentance and faith.

    Indeed, the Scriptures teach repentance and faith as a part of becoming a child of the King. Peter told those in Acts 2:36 "Therefore let all the house of Israel, KNOW ASSUREDLY that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ." Believing or knowing assuredly that Jesus was, indeed, "Lord and Christ", they replied in verse 37, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?". To which Peter replied in verse 38, "Repent". Thus far we see and have "authority of God's word" for repenting and believing in order to become a child of the King. This is what the church, which had the marque, believes and practices: repentance and faith to become a child of the King.

    However, is faith and repentance ALL that Peter told them to do? Let's read verse 38 again: "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." In this statement, Peter is telling those who believe that Jesus is Lord and Christ to "repent, AND be baptized" for the remission (forgiveness) of sins. Whatever relationship repentance has to the “remission of sins", so does baptism!

    It's the same thing expressed by Jesus in Mark 16:16: "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved." Whatever relationship "believeth" has to being saved, so does being "baptized". Thus we have Jesus and Peter joining baptism to faith and repentance. In order to be “saved" and to have "remission of sins", God's word teaches faith and repentance and baptism are necessary.

    You cannot be saved before believing. Neither can you be saved before baptism. Belief and baptism come BEFORE a person is saved (Mark 16:16). You cannot have the remission (forgiveness) of sins before repenting. Neither can you have remission (forgiveness) of sins before baptism. Repentance and baptism come BEFORE the remission (forgiveness) of sins.

    Therefore, we are not a child of the King before we believe, repent, and are baptized. For anyone to teach that a person can become a child of the King by JUST believing on Christ and repenting of their sins is not teaching by the authority of God's word. God’s word nowhere teaches that sins are forgiven by just believing and repenting. 

    No one, since the resurrection of Christ, has become a child of the King without: (1) HEARING God's word. For "faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God" (Rom. 10:17); (2) FAITH in Christ. "Without faith it is impossible to please Him" (Hebrews 11:6); (3) REPENTING of sins. "I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:3) (Also, Acts 2:38, quoted above.); (4) CONFESSING Christ to be God's Son. "And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." (Acts 8:37); and (5) being BAPTIZED for the remission of sins. (Acts 2:38, already quoted).

    Therefore, by the authority of God's word, we must sincerely declare those who believe they are children of the King by repenting and believing are not His children. The reason why this must be said? They are unwilling to take ALL that God has said on the subject. Therefore, they are without authority from God.

- E.R. Hall, Jr. 

SENTENCE SERMONS

A mind with no spiritual inclinations makes no sense.
***
He who is waiting for something to turn up might start with his own shirt sleeves.
***
Your temper is like a fire.  It gets very destructive when it gets out of control.
***
Conscience is God's built-in warning system.  Be very happy when it hurts you.  Be very worried when it doesn’t.
***
Although the tongue weighs very little, few people are able to hold it.

"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. I - No. 16 / December 30, 2018

THE LAST DAY

      The last day of the year is a day to remind us that everything comes to an end. Each year has a beginning and an end as does each month, each week and each day. The new year is only the beginning of twelve months that end on December 31. Life is expressed in the cycle of time that has a beginning and has an end. “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8).

    As we begin to reflect upon the new horizon of 2019 we should also pause to reflect the sober reminder that we are mortal creatures that have a beginning and at least on this earth – an end. Yet the irony of this message is that we still exist beyond death. Our ending here is a beginning in eternity and upon the frail time of space we share in life eternity depends. “It is appointed unto men once to die, and after this cometh judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). “This is the end of the matter; all hath been heard: fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every hidden thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).

    The last day of the year is a day of reflection. It reminds us that time does not stand still. We grow older with each passing year and draw nearer to our eternal abode. Paul looked at his life near its end and said, “For I am already being offered, and the time of my departure is come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give to me at that day: and not only to me, but also to all them that have loved his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:6-8). He looked back on his life and forward to the life to come. The apostle had confidence in his life in service to Christ. His last day was fast approaching and he could see the fight coming to an end; the race nearly completed; the maturing of his faith in God as nearly complete. Can we have the same hope as Paul on this last day?

    He also looked forward to a new day coming. This hope was built upon faithful service to the Kingdom of God. Paul knew that his last day on earth would propel him to that eternal home with God. What vision to live with faith in this life that will guide us across the final day. The final day for the Christian is the beginning of the eternal day with the Father. The last day of mortality will be the beginning of our immortal joy. “Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. But when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory” (1 Corinthians 15:51-54).

    The last day is a day of victory. It will be a time when all the grace of God is revealed and the joy of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ will be revealed in the resurrection. The last day of this year should be a time of victory to see how we have grown in our faith toward God - looking forward to that final last day of our life; whether in death or in the glorious coming of our Savior. December 31 – the last day! What a great day to reflect and enjoy the blessings of God. The new year gives opportunity to strive with more zeal to live for the last day. It will not be a day of sadness but a day of awakening. The last day is a day that will last in eternity when we are found faithful. 
—Kent Heaton

A REALLY "BIG" WORD

    We are saved, "IF" we keep in memory God's Word. "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, IF ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. “(1 Corinthians 15:1,2)

    We are the house of God, "IF" we hold fast to the end. "And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after; But Christ as a son over his own house; who house we are, IF we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end." (Hebrews 3:5,6)

    We are holy, "IF" we continue in the faith. “And you, that were sometimes alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreprovable in His sight: IF ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;" (Colossians 1:21-23)

    We are cleansed by His blood, "IF" we walk 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)

    We will never fall, "IF" we do these things. "And besides this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For IF these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for IF ye do these things, ye shall never fall:" (2 Peter 1:5-10) 
—E.R. Hall, Jr.

SENTENCE SERMONS

 If a child isn’t taught to obey a parent who is visible, he’ll never learn to obey a God who isn’t.
***
If you want a spiritually healthy family,

you must make sure that every member has a steady diet of the Word of God.
***
Preparation is essential, no matter the project; how much more essential regarding eternal matters.
***
It doesn’t make sense to regulate your actions by any other standard than that by which you will be judged

– the Word of God.

"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. I - No. 15 / December 15, 2018

MAKING IT EASY

“WORKS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH
GETTING TO HEAVEN...TITUS 3:5
BAPTISM AND HOLDING OUT FAITHFUL TO
THE END ARE WORKS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
AND THEREFORE HAVE
NOTHING TO DO WITH GETTING SAVED
DON'T BE DECEIVED, YOU DON'T HAVE TO
WAIT TILL YOU DIE TO KNOW THAT
YOU'RE GOING TO HEAVEN
You Can Be 100% Sure Of Heaven Right Now!!"
DICKENSON STAR Newspaper, Jan. 21,1998 

    Yes, everybody is interested in having things made easy and it is no different in religious matters.This advertisement, printed in a local newspaper when I lived in Virginia, is proof. You will note that the only passage of scripture given as proof was Titus 3:5. Before we can come to a conclusion of truth from one verse, we must be sure that verse has been kept in context. How many times have you had someone to take a word or sentence of something you said out of context and make it mean something that you did not intend? This can be true of verses and words that are used from the Bible. We must always keep them in context.

    Titus 3:5 is a verse found in the midst of teaching by the apostle Paul which actually began back in verse 3 and continues through verse 8. "For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another." (Verse 3). The apostle is showing the sinful state of mankind. Truly, "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23, also Galatians 3:22). "But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared," (Verse 4). Yes, God so loved the world, He gave His Son (John 3:16) and "while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). Therefore, "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;" (Verse 5). Mankind was in sin, separated from God by their own choosing. The context clearly shows man was not responsible for the plan of salvation; the plan was a show of mercy and grace (verse 7) on the part of God. God never owed us salvation! We were the SINNERS! We did nothing to deserve what God has done for us. However, this ad would have us to believe that God has given us nothing to do concerning this plan He has made. This ad would have us to believe that God has make it easy because there's nothing for us to do! That is not the context!

    Don't get me wrong. God has made it easy but not in the way this ad would have us believe. God has made possible something that otherwise would have been impossible: SALVATION!

    The ad states: "Works of righteousness have nothing to do with going to heaven". Another simple rule of Bible study which must always be observed is: Don't draw a conclusion from one verse that clearly contradicts another verse. The Scriptures harmonize; they do not contradict. If the statement of this ad is correct, these verses are definitely contradicted:

• Acts 10:34,35 "Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth Him, and WORKETH RIGHTEOUSNESS, is accepted with Him.” 
• 1 John 2:29 "If we know that He (Christ) is righteous, ye know that every one that DOETH RIGHTEOUSNESS  is born of Him."
• 1 John 3:10 "In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: WHOSOEVER DOETH NOT RIGHTEOUSNESS IS NOT OF GOD, neither he that loveth not his brother."

    The ad also states "Baptism and holding out faithful to the end are works of righteousness and therefore have nothing to do with getting saved". I wonder if the one placing this ad would say a person must BELIEVE to be saved? If so, what will he do with Romans 10:10 "For with the heart man BELIEVETH UNTO RIGHTEOUSNESS;...". If all works are excluded in our being saved, what is he going to do with John 6:28,29 and 2 Thessalonians 1:11 which say that BELIEVING IS A WORK?

    There are certain works of righteousness which will not save. In Romans 10:1-4, Paul spoke of his fellow Jews who were lost and needed to be saved. Yet to be saved, they were going to have to submit to the righteousness of God and stop going about establishing their own righteousness. This is exactly what denominations are doing today. They are establishing their own righteousness by devising their own systems of religion, their own plan of salvation, their own churches, their own worship, etc., etc. Book, chapter, and verse cannot be given for what they believe and practice while rightly dividing God's word at the same time.

    The ad is right on one point: “You don't have to wait before you die to know if you are going to heaven. You can be 100% sure of heaven”. "Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And besides this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence TO MAKE YOUR CALLING AND ELECTION SURE: FOR IF YE DO THESE THINGS, YE SHALL NEVER FALL: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." (2 Peter 1:4-11). 

    It is unavoidable: We must work the righteousness of God in order to be saved and go to heaven.
—E.R. Hall, Jr.

DO YOU ACT OR REACT?

    I walked with my friend, a Quaker, to the newsstand the other night, and he bought a paper, thanking the newsie politely. The newsie didn't even acknowledge it. "A sullen fellow, isn't he?" I commented.  "Oh, he's that way every night," shrugged my friend. "Then why do you continue to be so polite to him?" I asked. "Why not?" inquired my friend. "Why should I let him decide how I'm going to act?" 

    As I thought about this incident later, it occurred to me that the important word was "act." My friend acts toward people; most of us react toward them. He has a sense of inner balance which is lacking in most of us; he knows who he is, what he stands for, how he should behave. He refuses to return incivility for incivility, because then he would no longer be in command of his own conduct. When we are enjoined in the Bible to return good for evil, we look upon this as a moral injunction - which it is. But it is also a psychological prescription for our emotional health. 

    Nobody is unhappier than the perpetual reactor. His center of emotional gravity is not rooted within himself, where it belongs, but in the world outside him. His spiritual temperature is always being raised or lowered by the social climate around him, and he is a mere creature at the mercy of these elements. 

    Praise gives him a feeling of euphoria, which is false, because it does not last and it does not come from self-approval. Criticism depresses him more than it should, because it confirms his own secret shaky opinion of himself. Snubs hurt him, and the merest suspicion of unpopularity in any quarter rouses him to bitterness. 

    A serenity of spirit cannot be achieved until we become the masters of our own actions and attitudes. To let someone else determine whether we shall be rude or gracious, elated or depressed, is to relinquish control over our own personalities, which is ultimately all we possess....The only true possession is self-possession. 
—-Sidney Harris

SENTENCE SERMONS

 A sharp tongue does not necessarily indicate keen thinking. 
***
True wealth is not determined by the size of a man's bank account. 
***
When compared to the burden of sin, the yoke of Christ is easy and His burden is light. 
***
It is not what you think, but what God's Word says that will judge you at the last day. 

"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