What The Bible Says

Vol. V - No. 13 / December 4, 2022

WHERE DID THE RELIGIOUS OBSERVANCE OF CHRISTMAS ORIGINATE?

       To answer this question it is necessary to go outside the New Testament:

        - The Encyclopedia Americana says, "The Christmas celebration was not observed in the first centuries of the church.”

        - The Catholic Encyclopedia says, "Christmas was not among the early festivals of the church.”

    Therefore, if we cannot find the Christmas observance in the New Testament, and a secular encyclopedia says that it was not observed in the first centuries of the church, and a religious encyclopedia says that it was nonexistent in the early church, then we must conclude that it did not originate with the apostles.

    So, where did this December observance originate?  Colliers Encyclopedia tells us that Lyberius, the Bishop of Rome, whom the Catholics regard as one of the early Popes, ordered in 354 A.D. that "December 25th be observed as the birthday of Christ.” December 25th had formerly been used by the Romans as a feast day for their Sun-God, Mithra. The Roman Saturnalia (riotous festival of Saturn) also came at this time. "The indications are that the church in this way grasped an opportunity to turn the people away from a purely pagan observance of the winter solstice to a day of adoration of Christ the Lord. Both Saint Cyprian and Saint John Chrysostom allude to this thought in their writings." (Colliers Encyclopedia) "December 25th was already a festive day for the sun god, Mithra, and appealed to the Christians as an appropriate day to commemorate the birth of Jesus, the light of the world." (Lincoln Library of Essential Information)

    From these statements by reliable sources it is easy to see that the date of Christmas had its origin in a pre-Christian age among the pagans. It was adopted into a so-called "Christian" holiday by the Roman Catholic Church. Furthermore, the word "Christmas" is of Catholic origin. The word is derived from the medieval "Christes Masse," the mass of Christ, which is a corruption of the Lord's Supper. On December 25th, even until this day, the Catholics hold a special Mass for Christ. In time, "Christes Masse" came to be shortened to "Christmas." Christmas, then, had its origin as a special religious observance in the Roman Catholic Church. —David Padfield

JESUS BORN OF DECEMBER 25?

Luke 2:7ff "And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger … And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.  And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and … said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord..."

"The climate was mild, and, to keep their flocks from straying, they spent the night with them  . . . The Jews sent out their flocks into the mountains and desert regions during the summer months, and took them up in the latter part of October or the first of November, when the cold weather commenced . . . It is probable from this that our Saviour was born before the 25th of December . . . At that time it is cold, especially in the high and mountainous regions about Bethlehem."   —Albert Barnes

SHOPPING AROUND

    Many people think religion is like shopping. When we are interested in purchasing a vehicle, we go to different places looking for the vehicle with the most features and the best deal. When shopping for groceries, we look for a store with the largest selection and the cheapest prices. When shopping for clothes, we look for name brands at the lowest prices.

    When people think in terms of religion, they continue to have this “shopping around” mentality. “After all”, they will say, “look at all the choices there are!” In making the choice, names are important only to the extent that the church must be “well-known”. Otherwise, the thinking that persist is, “There’s nothing in a name!” The Scriptures refutes this thinking: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). There is no salvation in any name other than Jesus Christ. He is the One that shed His blood for the remission/forgiveness of our sins (Matthew 26:28). With that same blood He purchased the church (Acts 20:28). Does any church have the right to wear any other name? Do those who have had their sins forgiven have a right to wear any name other than or another name in addition to Christian? Does the authority by which we do things religiously come from the Scriptures or are they the commandments of men? Jesus tells us worship which is done according to the commandments of men is vain (Matthew 15:9).

    It is sad to say though it is true: Most people have no regard for what the Scriptures teach when it comes to deciding which church they want to be affiliated with. Many have let their parents decide for them which church and they will continue to follow that tradition down through the generations. To others their choice is simply a matter of which church is located the closet to them. Other are looking for a church with the friendliest people or maybe the most people. Some are shopping for a church based on what social and recreational programs they offer for themselves and their children. Some are drawn to a church because it has the prettiest building in the community. Some want to be a part of a church where the town mayor, members of the city council, or other local government officials attend.

    Yes, a lot of people at one time or another are shopping for a church and maybe you are one of them. What is the criteria you are using to determine the choice you make — a church that follows the Scriptures or a church that has a fellowship hall or a beautiful steeple on the roof?   —E.R. Hall, Jr. 

SENTENCE SERMONS

Trouble is merely opportunity in work clothes.
 ***
When they discover the center of the universe, a lot of people will be disappointed to discover they are not it.
*** 
The greatest of faults, I should say, is to be conscious of none.
 ***
The most significant change in a person's life is a change of attitude. Right attitudes produce right actions.

"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. V - No. 11 / October 23, 2022

DOES GOD'S LAW ON MARRIAGE APPLY TO SINNERS?

    Some take the position that alien sinners are amenable to all of the law of Christ except those laws dealing with marriage. Others take the position that alien sinners are not under any of the laws of Christ. Some even take the position that Christians, being saved by grace, are not under law. All of these positions are wrong.

    The Bible teaches that Christians are not under the law of Moses (Col. 2:14·17; Romans 7:1·4); however, Christians are under the law of Christ (1 Cor. 9:20-21). Christians must answer to the law of Christ and be judged by it (James 1:21-25; 2:12; 2 Cor. 5:10). Alien sinners are also under the law of Christ in that it applies to them, they are amenable to it, and must answer to it. If this were not so, they would not be sinners. "Sin is the transgression of the law" (1 John 3:4). "For where no law is, there is no transgression" (Romans 4:15). Therefore, if alien sinners are not under the law of Christ, they could not transgress it and thus would not be sinners.

    Some claim they are sinners because they transgress civil law and not because they transgress the law of Christ. Transgression of civil law makes one a sinner only because Christ's law is violated when we violate civil law (Romans 13:1-2). Murder is a violation of both a specific civil law and a specific law of Christ. However, hunting out of season violates only certain specific civil laws. Hunting out of season is sinful because we violate the law of Christ when we violate civil law (Romans 13:1-2).

    Some of the Corinthians, before becoming Christians, had been guilty of being fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, effeminate, and homosexuals. (1 Cor. 6:9-11). They were guilty of these sins because they transgressed the law of Christ and not because they transgressed some civil law in Corinth. There were no civil laws in Corinth against idolatry and most of these other sins.

    Some would agree that all of this is true, but then they turn around and argue that with marriage it is different. I wonder why it is different? Why would Christ's law on idolatry apply to alien sinners and His law on marriage not apply? Some argue that God does not recognize a sinner's marriage. Paul said a man can have a wife who is an alien sinner. (1 Cor. 7:12). The Holy Spirit tells us Pilate had a wife. (Matthew 27:19). Pilate and his wife were alien sinners. The Holy Spirit tells us Felix had a wife named Drusilla. (Acts 24:24). Felix and Drusilla were not Christians. They were alien sinners. (Acts 24:25).

    John the Baptist believed that God's laws on marriage applied to alien sinners like Herod the King and Herodias the woman he married (Mark 6:17), but had no right to marry, because she was Philip's wife. (Matthew 14:3-4). What Herod had done did not violate any civil law he was under. However, John said "It is not lawful... " It is not lawful according to God's law. Was John telling them to separate??? You better believe that was the message and they understood it properly!!! This is the reason why John was thrown into prison and later beheaded. (Matthew 14:3-12). If what some brethren teach is so, then John could have encouraged them to be baptized and continue to live together. This sort of teaching would have made them happy and saved John from going to prison. It would also have saved Herod from the trouble of having John beheaded. The kind of preaching John did will bring similar results today. If they don't kill you, they will make you wish you were dead!!!  —Windell Wiser

RESPECTABLE WORLDLINESS

    Whenever we hear the word "worldliness" we often think of lying, drunkenness, adultery, and other such sins. There is no doubt that God's word condemns such things from verses like Revelation 21:8: "But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone:”.

    Yet there is another kind of worldliness that we possibly do not recognize because it is so widely accepted. Let's call it 'respectable worldliness' because it has to do with good things like our families, our jobs, recreation, etc. Many of our material blessings come to us through these things and none of us would deny the rightful place which they have in our lives. However ANYTHING that we put more emphasis on than serving God and doing His will becomes a sin. We are to “...love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength" (Mark 12:30). This verse is telling us that everything is to be secondary to God.

    Many Christians are guilty of 'respectable worldliness'. No, they do not commit fornication or adultery. They are not drunkards or drug abusers. What they are guilty of is letting the good and decent things of this life totally engulf them. As a result, things of the Lord are being pushed to the side little by little, more and more. How often have we used the words, "I don't have the time" when it comes to justifying ourselves for not visiting the sick, studying our Bibles at home, attending all the services, or teaching someone the gospel? What we are saying is that we are too busy working on our jobs or doing for our families to have enough time to do the Lord's bidding. We mean no harm because we realize the importance of our jobs and families and we understand that God has required us to work and care for our families. Could it be that even though we say we love the Lord, we might just love our jobs and families more. The way we live definitely demonstrates a misplaced affection.

    The blessings we have in this country are a curse to the spirituality of the church. Take a look at ourselves. We have no time for in-depth study of the Bible, some prefer sermonettes during worship services, we drive several miles to attend a ball game or other events but cannot go to the next town to attend a gospel meeting, and we hardly blink an eye at the debt we assume in order to buy a new color TV or automobile, but we would suggest a psychiatrist for the man who would make the same sort of debt to support gospel preaching in a needy area. This kind of worldliness has given us a "ho-hum" attitude especially in view of the fact that everyone in society places job and family at the head of the list of priorities.

    We all know the drunkard, drug addict, fornicator, etc. are going to hell. We help to amen the preacher who steps on their toes. Let's consider this: Can a person be lost because he worked too many hours making an "honest living" or will one be condemned for attending ball games, or relaxing with friends, or for buying a new TV or car? The answer to these questions can be found in Jesus' parable in Luke 14:16-24: "A certain man made a great supper, and bade many: and sent his servants at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready. And they all wi th one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused. And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused. And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come. So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the mained, and the halt, and the blind. And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room. And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.”

    Notice the men that would not taste of the supper were not drunks, adulterers, homosexuals, or even liars. They were lost over "a piece of ground", "five yoke of oxen", and "a wife". The lesson is simple! PUT GOD FIRST! "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Matthew 6:33).  —E.R. Hall, Jr.

SENTENCE SERMONS

Your bank account does not Indicate your true worth.
*** 
Criticizing the faults of others does not remove your own. 
*** 
Before you say what you think - you should THINK!

"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. V - No. 10 / October 9, 2022

THE SINNERS PRAYER

    In this world today, we see many denominations scattered around the world that seem to have a different approach to what they call the sinner’s prayer. The prayer is commonly promoted at the end of a service as an avenue to salvation, which the person is asked to repeat. The assurance is given that if one says the words sincerely and one trusts in God, all will be forgiven and God will save that individual. We must ask the questions “What is in the Prayer? Is there anything else I should do? What does the bible say?”

Here is a simple and short Sinner’s Prayer taken from Wikipedia:

“Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and I ask Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior.”

    First, what is in this prayer is “Faith”. For without faith it is impossible to please Him... Hebrews 11:6, and the only way to receive faith is by hearing the word of God... Romans 10:17. Acts 8:37 ”...If you believe with all your heart, it is lawful.” And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” Though this prayer does not contain these words, I have seen others that do.

    Some denominations say that all baptism “is just an outward sign of an inward change” but according to Mark 16:16 “He who believes and is baptized will be saved”... Acts 2:38 “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins...., Galatians 3:27 “For as many as were baptized into Christ, you put on Christ." Rom 6:3 "Do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death?" Rom 6:4 "Therefore we were buried with Him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father; even so we also should walk in newness of life.”

   Our Saviour died and shed His own blood for our sins, was laid into the tomb and was risen from the dead to ascend to heaven to be our Saviour and King. We all are dead, spiritually dead to Christ. Through baptism we come in contact with Christ’s blood while in the watery grave to rise out of the grave to a new life.

   Baptism is not an outward sign, it is the act of obeying His word. After Christ rose from the grave while speaking to His apostles Matthew 28:19 “Therefore go and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

   So we must conclude hearing, believing, confessing and baptism are all necessary to be saved and being faithful until death to receive a crown of life. Revelation 2:10  —Phillip Henson

WHERE ARE THE MEN?

    Surely no one can deny that the role of men in society has changed. The "norms" of the day are "househusbands". It is not the purpose of this article to go into detail on what might be contributing to these role changes but no doubt the Women's Liberation Movement of the '70's, Humanism, and Materialism have each donated a part. With the help of advertising, radio, television, and our political system they have been able to make deep inroads into our thinking and way of life. Whatever and however many factors there are can all be summed up by saying: There is a lack of respect for God's word and a general failure in teaching what the Bible says. 

    The reason man is to be the "head" of woman is found in Genesis 2:7-23; 3:16 and 1 Corinthians 11:3-12. The word "head" means "authority or direction". Being "head" of woman is not a man's "right" but "responsibility". Yet, simply mentioning the word "subjection" causes many to think of "inferiority" because that is the way we are being conditioned to think. This role of leadership is to be consistently maintained in the home, in the church, and in society. 

    God has given the man the "responsibility" of being the provider (Genesis 3:17-19; 1 Timothy 5:8). However, today there are 64% of married women who work and a fourth of them are mothers with children under six years of age. 

    Can we not see that when we change God's order of things we are leaving ourselves open for whatever consequences will follow? Marriages are strained, the trend is to become more independent, and the temptation becomes greater for both men and women when they are spending more time with the opposite sex on the job than at home. A man cannot be a mother! This is a role that God has not given to a man. He is to be a father (Ephesians 6:4). When it comes to being a mother, a woman has no equal for she is supreme. But once a pattern of working outside the home is established, it is hard for a woman to break. 

    We can know what God's order is to be in society. His word is clear in spelling out the role and relationships between men and women. When we go beyond the rules, where do we stop? Let's be content to follow God's word.  —E.R. Hall, Jr.

WHERE ARE THE WOMEN NOW?

    No one can deny that the role of women in society has changed. Change does not have to be necessarily good or bad. However, current attitudes in society must not control our understanding of the Scriptures and neither should attitudes of the past generation. It is just as wrong to elevate 1955 American lifestyles to the same level as the Scriptures as it is to allow the present values of society distort God's teaching. 

    In today's society the role of women has changed from "submission" (Ephesians 5:22-33) to being in positions of authority. In this area of "headship" we can see an equalizing effect taking place. In the area of providing or "breadwinning", we see women leaving the home instead of being "keepers at home" (Titus 2:4-5) and becoming more involved in the work place. Thus we see a role reversal taking place wherein women are become the principle provider. In the area of rearing children (1 Timothy 5:14) we see this role being substituted with day care. 

   Instead of God's word being commonplace we hear such statements as: "The word 'subjection' is demeaning and degrading." "A woman who is a homemaker is wasting her mind for she is a slave chained to the stove, hearing nothing but children's voices." We have been told this repeatedly through television and magazines and we are being affected by it more than we are willing to admit. 

   Very few preachers are willing to teach what God's word says about the role of women for fear of being labeled as bigots or sexists. It is not that God's word is out of step with the times; the times are out of step with God's word! In fact, we have gotten so far out of step that it seems strange to hear what God's word does teach on this subject.   —E.R. Hall, Jr.

Trends:
For the first time, a new survey has found that most Christians in the United States believe that worshiping alone or only with one's family can be a valid substitute for going to church (a possible effect of widespread closures during the COVID-19 pandemic). The survey showed that 66% of Americans agreed that "Worshiping alone or with one’s family is a valid replacement for regularly attending church."
- via The Christian Post, 9/3/22

Hebrews 10:25 “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”
—Taken from The Beacon - Electronic Edition 10/4/22
Collegeview church of Christ
Columbia, TN

"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. V - No. 9 / September 25, 2022

ARE CHRISTIANS AUTHORIZED TO MISS CHURCH SERVICES TO WORK?

       The question raised in this article is an important one we all must consider. Let's establish two points of truth before answering this question. First, assembling ("going to church") is undoubtedly required by God. The Hebrew writer exhorts, "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:24-25). Second, Christians are commanded to work. For example, Paul commands in 2 Thessalonians 3:10, "If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat." Paul would also go on to describe one who refuses to work by saying, "If anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever" (1 Timothy 5:8). As we can see, both attending the church services and working in order to provide for our families are both of great importance and are commands we are bound to keep. But what if our employer expects us to work when the church is called together to assemble? The Bible provides us with the answer through multiple forms of binding Biblical authority.

DIRECT COMMAND (Matthew 6:19-21; 31-33)

    During His sermon on the mount, Jesus expressly commands, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:19-21). If we choose to work instead of attending the assembly of the saints, then we are guilty of laying up "treasures on earth" as opposed to storing "treasures in heaven.” 

    Some will point out that we will likely lose our jobs if we do not work when our employer has told to us perform our duties. The person who makes this statement is probably right, which simply means we need to find another job. The other job might not pay as well and may not have great benefits (insurance, retirement package, etc.), but if we trust God to fulfill what He has promised, then a new job that fits our worship schedule but does not pay as well as our current job should not be an issue - "Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you" (Matthew 6:31-33). God promises to provide our necessities, but that promise is conditional on putting Him first. What are we putting first - the Kingdom of God or our secular jobs?

APPROVED EXAMPLE (Mark 1:16-18)

    One of the key ways we establish Bible authority is through approved example. It is by approved example that we know the Lord's Supper is to be administered on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7). Likewise, we can also find an approved example in Mark 1:16-18 to help us determine if we have authority to miss church services due to our secular work duties.

    As Jesus began His ministry, he called Peter, Andrew, James, and John to serve as His disciples. All four of these men were in the middle of working their secular jobs as fishermen when Jesus appeared to them, and their response serves as an example for us today. Mark records, "And as He walked by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. Then Jesus said to them, 'Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men.' They immediately left their nets and followed Him. When He had gone a little farther from there, He saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the boat mending their nets. And immediately He called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants, and went after Him." The text should speak for itself, friends. Let’s follow this approved example by casting our work “nets” aside when it is time to focus on spiritual matters.

CONDITIONAL STATEMENT (Hebrews 10:24-27)

    Do you recall the full context of the command to assemble that we find in Hebrews 10:24-25? Remember, the Hebrew writer urges, "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:24-25). I think we sometimes stop reading at verse 25 without considering the next two verses which put forth a conditional statement directly connected with the command to assemble. After giving the command to assemble, the Hebrew writer explains, "For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries" (Hebrews 10:26-27). When we choose to forsake "the assembling of ourselves together" due to our secular jobs, we are sinning willfully, meaning we are choosing to go directly against something God has commanded, and thus come under the condemnation given in Hebrews 10:26-27. We should never deliberately choose to sin, and we should never willfully put secular work ahead of the church services.

CONCLUSION

   At minimum, we have three forms of binding Biblical authority which provide us the answer as to whether we have the right to miss church services in order to perform our secular work duties. Of course, the answer is no, we have no such authority. In John 6:27, Jesus makes it very clear what our selection should be when faced with the choice of going to our secular jobs or attending the church services. Jesus says, "Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him." As an immature Christian, I was guilty of missing the church services for work. I was wrong and I sinned by putting work rather than God first. Please, learn from my mistakes and don't commit the same sins I committed.  —Dylan Stewart

YOU ARE LOST UNLESS...

YOU HAVE OBEYED THE GOSPEL! “Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21). “But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered.” (Romans 6:17). The “form of doctrine” that’s needed to be obeyed is our being dead in sin, buried with Christ in baptism, and raised to walk in a newness of life which is the “form” of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. (Romans 6:1-6)

YOU ARE IN CHRIST! Salvation is IN Christ (2 Timothy 2:10; Acts 4:12). Redemption is IN Christ (Colossians 1:13-14). Eternal life in IN Christ (1 John 5:11). We are new creatures IN Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). How do we get IN Christ? Are we willing to let the Scriptures give us the answer to that important question? “For as many of you as were BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST have put on Christ.” (Galatians 3:27). Remember, we do not have salvation, redemption, eternal life, nor are we new creatures until we have been baptized. Are we going to believe the Scriptures or someone else?

YOU ARE IN THE LORD’S CHURCH! Can we not see the importance of the church when Acts 20:28 tells us Christ died for it and Ephesians 5:25 tells us He gave Himself for it? For this reason, the Lord adds those who are saved to the church (Acts 2:47) and He is the Savior of it (Ephesians 5:23). How do we get into the Lord’s church? “For by one Spirit we are all baptized into one body…” (1 Corinthians 12:13). We see from passages like Ephesians 1:22-23 and Colossians 1:18 that the “body” is the “church”.

YOU ARE A FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN! As a Christian we must not be neglectful of our duties before God (Hebrews 2:1-4). We must be spiritually, no carnally, minded (Galatians 5:19-21). Our faithfulness must be “unto death” (Revelation 2:10). —E.R. Hall, Jr.

GOD IS NO RESPECTOR OF PERSONS

    The Scriptures teach “there is no respect of persons with God” (Romans 2:11). This can be seen in that God hath concluded ALL under sin. Though some do not accept this, the Bible tells us clearly “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). If we die in our sins we cannot enter Heaven for nothing can enter Heaven “that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” (Revelation 21:27).

    The fact God is no respecter of persons can also be seen in that Christ died for ALL. “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.” (Hebrews 2:9). When Jesus gave the ‘great commission’ in Mark 16:15 he said, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” The invitation is extended to all. “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28).

    There is also ONE plan of salvation for ALL. Since God is no respecter of persons, He requires the same thing of everybody. All through the book of Acts we see EVERYONE doing the SAME thing. The gospel was preached, those who heard the Word had to believe it, repent of their sins, confess Christ to be the Son of God, and be baptized for the remission of sins.

    Upon their obedience to the gospel, the Lord continues to show He is no respecter of persons for He adds ALL the saved to ONE church (Acts 2:47; Ephesians 4:4; 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18). We are not at liberty to “join the church of our choice” for God has not given us a choice. The only reason there are so many churches is the result of creeds and doctrines of men and we must not have any part with them that render “vain worship” (Matthew 15:9).

    In the Judgment Day, God will be no respecter of persons. ALL of us will be there (Romans 14:10) and He will “render to every man according to his deeds” (Romans 2:6; 2 Corinthians 5:10). “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” (Revelations 20:12). —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. V - No. 8 / September, 2022

OUR GOSPEL MEETING

       O Have you spent any time thinking about the benefits to be derived from our gospel meeting? Here are some things that we believe can result:
-   You can worship and glorify God.
-   You can help to support the teaching of truth.
-   You can deepen your understanding of the Scriptures.
-   You can strengthen your faith.
-   You can be encouraged by your association with fellow Christians and you can accomplish your duty to edify your brethren.
-  You can help to teach a lost person by inviting them to attend with you. 

    Of course, there are some other things you could do this week instead of attending each service of the gospel meeting:
-  You could stay home and watch TV.
-  You could neglect your duty to God and show a greater love for the things of this world (1 John 2:15-17).
-  You could forget about learning more of God’s truth.
-  You could turn your back on your brethren and choose instead to associate with worldly friends.
-  You could simply forsake your spiritual obligations and serve your carnal desires.

     Now, look at those two lists. At the end of this week, which course will you have followed? Think! —Greg Gwin

WAS JESUS NARROW-MINDED?

    Christians are often referred to as "narrow-minded". When we refuse to agree with the viewpoint or doctrine of another, this term may be used to describe us. While we should always be willing to listen to what others have to say, we are in no way obligated to accept or condone it. We are however called upon to seek the truth.

    Truth by its very nature is narrow. Two plus two equals four. Would a math teacher be considered narrow-minded for not accepting three, five or seven as the correct answer? If using the standard of some today, they most certainly would. Christ says in Mat. 7:13-14: "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it." Our minds must be narrow enough to enter the gate which leads to life which means being narrow enough to accept only the truth. When two things contradict, one or both of them must be false. In an attempt to be broad-minded and accepting, some have made it impossible for themselves to enter the narrow gate. Those who wish to accept all viewpoints as truth are doomed to travel the road to destruction with many others. 

    Our refusal to seek or recognize the truth does not affect its existence. While we may struggle with truth, our responsibility to seek it is not lessened. Often times we may feel the truth about many things here on earth evades us. This however does not mean truth does not or cannot exist. We can take heart in knowing the truth about what is most important is readily available. Christ said: "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (Mat. 8:31-32). True freedom is only experienced when we know and understand the real truth as revealed in The Scriptures. It originates with God. The Psalmist said: "You are near, 0 Lord, And all Your commandments are truth" (Ps. 119:151). Christ prays in John 17:17: "Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth". Truth was at the core of Christ's mission on earth. In John 18:37 He says: "For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice". While on earth, Christ was only as broad as the truth would allow. This resulted in much condemnation from those who were considered wise. 

    Truth and understanding are important. Prov. 23:23 says: "Buy the truth, and do not sell it, Also wisdom and instruction and understanding". As previously stated, God's Word is Truth. It is only by abiding in His Gospel that we can be saved. When writing to the Romans Paul said: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek" (Rom. 1: 16) . Are we brave enough to stand for the truth at the cost of be considered narrow-minded by the world? —Shane Pack

GOD IS NO RESPECTOR OF PERSONS

    The Scriptures teach “there is no respect of persons with God” (Romans 2:11). This can be seen in that God hath concluded ALL under sin. Though some do not accept this, the Bible tells us clearly “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). If we die in our sins we cannot enter Heaven for nothing can enter Heaven “that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” (Revelation 21:27).

    The fact God is no respecter of persons can also be seen in that Christ died for ALL. “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.” (Hebrews 2:9). When Jesus gave the ‘great commission’ in Mark 16:15 he said, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” The invitation is extended to all. “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28).

    There is also ONE plan of salvation for ALL. Since God is no respecter of persons, He requires the same thing of everybody. All through the book of Acts we see EVERYONE doing the SAME thing. The gospel was preached, those who heard the Word had to believe it, repent of their sins, confess Christ to be the Son of God, and be baptized for the remission of sins.

    Upon their obedience to the gospel, the Lord continues to show He is no respecter of persons for He adds ALL the saved to ONE church (Acts 2:47; Ephesians 4:4; 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18). We are not at liberty to “join the church of our choice” for God has not given us a choice. The only reason there are so many churches is the result of creeds and doctrines of men and we must not have any part with them that render “vain worship” (Matthew 15:9).

    In the Judgment Day, God will be no respecter of persons. ALL of us will be there (Romans 14:10) and He will “render to every man according to his deeds” (Romans 2:6; 2 Corinthians 5:10). “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” (Revelations 20:12). —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