What The Bible Says

Vol. VII - No. 14   November 24, 2024

HOW TO ESTABLISH BIBLE AUTHORITY

    "Authority" is the right to command, enforce obedience, and administer punishment. The beginning point with authority is to understand that ALL authority resides in God. Knowing that all authority resides in God, we must then understand that God has delegated or entrusted His authority to Christ. Jesus stated in Matthew 28:18 "...All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." That's why He is "...head over all things to the church..." (Ephesians 1:22) and "...that in all things he might have the pre-eminence” (Colossians 1:18). Can we not see then the importance of abiding in His word? "Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God...." (2 John 9).

    Christ, while on earth, taught twelve apostles and gave them binding and loosing authority. "And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." (Matthew 16:19). The apostles would have the Holy Ghost to teach them all things and bring all things to their remembrance that Jesus had said unto them (John 14:26). Therefore, respect for the authority of Christ is shown by our respecting the authority of the apostles. "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that receiveth whomsoever I send receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth me receiveth him that sent me." (John 13:20). That is why the apostle John stated: "We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us...." (1 John 4:6). 

    Is there a need to have Bible authority for what we do today in religion? Some say, "No! We don't have or need authority." Some say, "We do many things for which we have no authority!". However, we are no more on our own to do things than Moses was and he was told: "See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shown to thee in the mount." (Hebrews 8:5). We are commanded to "...walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing." (Philippians 3:16). How can we do this if there is no rule or pattern?

    No better way can be found to establish Bible authority than to see an example of it being done in the Scriptures themselves. In Acts 15 we have the apostles and elders of the church in Jerusalem considering the teaching which was being done concerning whether the Gentiles were to be circumcised as a part of salvation. "And certain men which came down from Judea taught the brethren, and said, ‘Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.’" (verse 1). In order to establish whether such a practice was authorized by God or not, we find in verses 14 and 15 the words of Simeon and the prophets were appealed to that it might be shown that God had the same plan of salvation for the Gentiles as He did for the Jews. Thus, we are given DIRECT COMMANDS or statements to establish the fact in the matter. In verse 12 Paul and Barnabas showed that the miracles and wonders God done among the Gentiles evidenced that God approved of the Gentiles. Therefore, we have given APPROVED EXAMPLES by which divine authority was established to decide the matter. In verses 7-11, Peter tells of the conversion of Cornelius, a Gentile, and thus reaches the NECESSARY CONCLUSION that God had "put no difference between us and them" (verse 9) and therefore it would not be right "to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples…” (verse 10). "We shall be saved, even as they". (verse 11).

    The letters that were written to the church in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia stated: "Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment:" (verse 24). Why was there no such commandment? Because there was no direct command, approved apostolic example, nor necessary conclusion authorizing such a practice that involved circumcision being a part of salvation!

    Today, the only way we know if we are authorized by God in what we do religiously is to find either a direct command or approved example or being able to draw a necessary conclusion from either the command or example. Are mechanical instruments of music authorized in worship unto God? If so, where is the passage of scripture giving the direct command authorizing it? Or the passage of scripture showing the apostles or early church engaged in their use? There are no such passages! What does this mean? Some think that if the Scriptures do not expressly forbid a certain practice, it is all right to go ahead and do it. Not so! We are commanded to "sing" (Ephesian 5:19; Colossians 3:16). Therefore, knowing what we are commanded to do eliminates all the other forms of music there might be. If Ephesians 5:19 and Colossians 3:16 had said ‘make music’, we would have authority for singing AND playing on a mechanical instrument: either vocal music or mechanical music. However, by God commanding "singing" that excludes all other forms of music and He did not have to give us the long list of things excluded for us to know they are unauthorized.

    God has authorized unleavened bread and the fruit of the vine to be used in the Lord’s Supper (Matthew 26:26-29). Because we cannot find a passage that expressly forbids cornbread and buttermilk does not therefore authorized their use on the Lord's table. When God has been specific, as in the case of singing in worship and the use of unleavened bread and the fruit of the vine in the Lord's Supper, that eliminates all other things for consideration.

    Is what you did to become a Christian authorized in God's word? Is the name of the church you are member, its worship, organization, and work authorized in the Scriptures? Or are there many things you do for which you have no authority? —E.R. Hall, Jr.

WHOSE ORDERS?

    Years ago I read notice of a horrible train wreck in which many people died painfully amid the twisted burning wreckage. The engineer was killed as well. But as he lay near death he showed those nearby a paper, saying, "Take this. It will show I was given the wrong orders." And, they were the wrong orders. He had been on the wrong track, yet he was still dying, along with many others.

    Friend, you have an eternal soul. Whose orders are you following: God's or man's idea of religion? Make sure, because sincerity is not enough!  —Bob Hines

SENTENCE SERMONS

We cannot become what we need to be by remaining what we are.
 ***
Don't use time or words carelessly. Neither can be retrieved.
 ***
"Well done is better than well said." - Benjamin Franklin
 ***
Always do more than is expected of you.
 ***
Do the best you can. The people who count will know that about you.

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

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

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

Website: www. EastAlbertville.org

What The Bible Says

Vol. VII - No. 1      November 10, 2024

AUTHORITY IN RELIGION

    ''And when He (Jesus) was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto Him as He was teaching, and said, By what authority doest Thou these things? and who gave Thee this authority?" (Matthew 21:23). 

    There has always been the recognized need for authority. In civil and criminal disputes, the courts appeal to the law as authority. There is the desperate need for authority in schools and in the home. Even on the ball field there is the need for authority or else chaos will result. Religion is no exception although it is sometimes thought to be the exception. The teaching that Jesus did while on earth was called into question in the above passage. His authority came from God, the Father, the ultimate source for all authority.

    There are different theories concerning authority in religion. Modernist places reason above the Bible. This places man's wisdom on equal footing with God's wisdom, thus the individual becomes the source of authority. It is more important what you or I think rather than what God has said. This what has given rise to all the man-made creeds of denominational churches along with their conferences, conventions, and councils where laws and by-laws are formulated. The result of these theories is division which is the meaning of the word "denominations". Authority varies as the individual or organization varies when man's wisdom becomes supreme.

    However, the Scriptures teach that man and his wisdom is not dependable as a source for authority. "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; but the end thereof are the ways of death." (Proverbs 14:12). "O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his own steps." (Jeremiah 10:23).

    When you are questioned, as Jesus was, about why you do certain things religiously, what answer will you give: "We've always done it that way!", "We like it therefore we do it!", or “That’s what the preacher says!”.

    It’s far more important that you give book, chapter, and verse. “And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.” (1 Corinthians 4:6). —E.R. Hall, Jr.

DO WE HAVE SCRIPTURAL AUTHORITY FOR A VIRTUAL LORD'S SUPPER?

    When the COVID-19 worldwide pandemic hit a few years ago, Christians faced the difficult challenge of attending worship services when local and federal mandates advised (and on many occasions required) us to not leave our homes. Due to these mandates, many churches shut their doors and stopped physically assembling due to the fear of catching and spreading the illness. As a means for combating not being able to attend the Sunday worship service in-person, some churches started offering the Lord's Supper via Zoom, Skype, or some other virtual live video streaming/sharing platform. While I commend these people for recognizing the importance of partaking of the Lord's Supper every Sunday (Acts 20:7), I will simply ask: Do we have scriptural authority to partake of the Lord's Supper virtually? 

    In 1 Corinthians 11, five times Paul refers to the fact that we are to celebrate the Lord’s Supper as a church (the whole church) who has "come together" in one assembly, meeting in "one place," with everyone partaking at the same appointed time (1 Corinthians 11:17, 18, 20, 33, & 34). Paul's command to the Corinthians (and us today [1 Corinthians 1:2]) to "come together" is supported by Acts 20:7. It is recorded here, "Upon the first day of the week . . . the disciples came together to break bread." The disciples came together all in one place and with the same purpose to partake of the Lord's Supper. Since Acts 20:7 is the verse which gives us authority to partake of the Lord's Supper on Sunday, we must also recognize the second requirement laid out in the verse to "come together" as a church in one place to partake of the Lord's Supper. Either both conditions are required, or neither are necessary – that is the only consistent conclusion we can draw. Of course, the only consistently accurate conclusion to draw is that both conditions are required. The Lord’s Supper can only be administered on the first day of the week and it can only be dispensed when the whole church is together in one place, meaning a virtual Lord’s Supper is unauthorized.

    It is scripturally impossible for the Lord’s Supper to be a private event. It is not something that can be done from our homes physically away from the whole church via Zoom or some other video platform. The intimacy and togetherness of the Lord’s Supper was on full display when Jesus instituted it before His death (Matthew 26:26-29). The disciples were physically present and "together" when they partook of the bread and fruit of the vine with Christ. The act is defined clearly in the gospel accounts and Paul reminds us of the requirements in his letter to the Corinthians that in order to partake of the Lord's Supper in a scripturally authorized manner, we must:  

•     Only partake on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7).
•     Be assembled together with the whole church (1 Corinthians 11:18).
•     Be physically present with the whole church assembled together in the same place (1 Corinthians 11:20).
•     Offer the Lord’s Supper to the whole congregation at the same time (1 Corinthians 11:18 & 33). 

Conclusion:

    Does the Bible grant us authority to administer a virtual Lord’s Supper? No, we have no such authority. And why does this matter? 1 Corinthians 11:27 gives us the answer: “Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.” Administering and partaking of the Lord’s Supper improperly carries severe eternal consequences. —Dylan Stewart 
https://thegoodnewsofgod.org/bible-blog/f/

SENTENCE SERMONS

“Truth ever gains, and error uniformly loses, by discussion.” - Alexander Campbell
 ***
We cannot hold a light for another’s path without brightening our own way.
 *** 
He who hates punishes only himself.
 ***
A poor listener seldom hears a good sermon.
 ***
Attitudes are nothing more than habits of thought – and habits can be acquired.

"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. VII - No. 12      Octobert 27, 2024

BUTTERFLIES AND CHRISTIANS

    Though they seem quite different, butterflies and Christians have many similarities. Let me first suggest that they have the same Creator as Gen. 1:24 records “living creature according to its kind.” Later in verse 26 of Genesis 1, God makes man in His image. Both made on day 6 with God as Creator, the butterfly being the eldest as being made before man.

    They both experience metamorphosis during their lives. The butterfly changes from its early larvae stages, then as a caterpillar, until it finally becomes a beautiful, graceful adult. The Christian too undergoes metamorphosis when he transforms his life through obedience to the Gospel and the renewing of his mind as Rom. 12:2 records. Also, man is a “new creature” if he is in Christ, 2 Cor. 5:17. The Christian’s final life stage here is one of maturity, no longer being impressionable children, “but grown up in all things into him who is the head, Christ.” Eph. 4:13-15 

     The butterfly and the Christian each have multiple hearts. The butterfly has a heart for the thorax/main body, and a heart for the wings to regulate temperature and see to the overall health of the wing. The Christian, as well, has a different heart as an obedient believer in comparison to the former man. God promises in Ezekiel 11:19 to give new spirits, and a new heart after removing their stony hearts. God states in Heb. 8:6 that He would put His laws into their minds and write them on their hearts.

    Butterflies come in various sizes, shapes and colors, as do Christians. Butterflies go about their work in different ways. Some are high flying distance workers, encompassing land and sea, while some are more regional or local, Christians are the same.

    Some butterflies are quite erratic, flying about causing commotion, seemingly to endlessly fly, never getting anywhere, as some Christians do. Some experts suggest this erratic behavior is somewhat territorial. I guess Christians are territorial at times in positive and sometimes not so positive ways.

    Butterflies and insects with exoskeletons can carry enormous weight in comparison to body size. Some 50 times their weight. Some Christian’s burdens are very heavy. Jesus said whoever would be His disciple, “must take up his cross daily” Luke 9:23. Cross here would be like that of an obstacle or a challenge or a burden. The burdens that Christians at times bear are enormous. Paul the apostle describes his burdens in his summation of 2 Cor. 11:23-28 this way “besides the other things, what comes upon me daily; my deep concern for all the churches.”

    The butterflies’ eyes have upward of 6000 lenses; they can discern friend, foe, danger, color, habitat. Within their various senses lies their ability to survive. With their feet they can sense the suitability of the object that they are standing on for food. In 1 Cor. 10:12 Christians are warned to take heed to their stance lest they fall. This requires good sensibility and discernment.

    Heb. 5:14 describes the mature Christian and his ability to discern both good and evil. We realize that this sense comes to those who exercise and put into practice all that is provided in God’s work as food for the Christian to grow, 1 Pet. 2:2 “pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.”

    We, Christians and our butterfly counterparts, even travel together at times, all be it on different sides of our car’s windshields. There are other similarities that could be listed here.

    God, in His infinite wisdom and ability, has created thousands of variations of beautiful and unique butterflies for the earth, each with their own special work. He in turn has also created untold number of beautiful, amazing Christians. 1 Pet. 2:9 describes them as a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people. 

     These special ones, Christians, are the ones He has created as new creatures to live with Him eternally in Heaven. What a blessing. Obey God while you have opportunity. Stop resisting…  —Blind Bartimaeus 23

WHAT IF IT'S NOT IN THE SCRIPTURES?

    We must have divine authority for all we do (Colossians 3:17 “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.”). That authority is founded upon the pages of God’s revealed word, the Bible. But what if that which we believe and practice cannot be found in the Scriptures? 

If it’s not in the Scriptures...

1. It is not a good work! The Scriptures furnishes us to ALL good works. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”)

2. It does not pertain to life and godliness! Again, ALL things that pertain to life and godliness are found in the Scriptures. (2 Peter 1:3 “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:”)

3. It causes one to not have God! We must not transgress and fail to go according to the teaching of Christ as set forth in the Scriptures. (2 John 9-11 “Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.”)

4. It is going beyond what is written! (1 Corinthians 4:6 “And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.”)

5. It cannot be done by faith! Since “faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17), we are commanded to “walk by faith and not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). Thus, “whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” (Romans 14:23)

6. It is not authorized by Christ! Only if it is in the Scriptures can we do it in His name, that is, by His authority. (Colossians 3:17 “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.”)

7. It is iniquity! Iniquity means lawlessness. Christ has given us His law. To not follow it is to be a worker of iniquity. (Matthew 7:22-23 “Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”)

8. It is not as the oracles of God! Oracles means words, thus, the words of God. Therefore, if we speak it must it must be the words of God that we are speaking as we are trying to teach others. (1 Peter 4:11 “If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”)

9. It is of men! If it is not found in the Scriptures, the oracles of God, then it is of man! Whatever is of men will render our worship “vain”. (Matthew 15:9 “But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”)

10. It's another gospel! Stop and consider the fact that the majority of what is preached and practiced today comes from a perverted gospel. (Galatians 1:6-9 “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.”) 
—E.R. Hall, Jr.

SENTENCE SERMONS

Spend your life for something which will outlast it.
***
Fall seven times and stand up eight.
***
Though a good motive cannot sanction a bad action, a bad motive will always corrupt a good action.
***
It takes a great deal of character strength to apologize quickly when you are in the wrong.

"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. VII - No. 11      Octobert 13, 2024

FACEBOOK: FAITH OR FOLLY?

    Facebook (FB) is a social networking website that connects 500 million people worldwide. Many Christians have FB pages (including this writer). As with most other things, FB can be a benefit to or blight upon one’s spiritual life. Please carefully consider your use of FB (or any other social networking site) to see if you have chosen to be God’s friend (Jn. 15:14).

    Faith on Facebook. Some brethren are using FB as an effective tool to advance the gospel of Christ. I know brethren who post daily Scripture readings, spiritual songs with comments, and regular Bible study articles. Some post links to Bible study material and their congregation’s website. There are Bible study groups on FB, too. All of these shows FB can be a great tool to help you spread the gospel of Christ and have a godly influence for truth and righteousness. We commend these efforts to you.

    Folly on Facebook. Sadly, there is also a great deal of sin and danger on FB. Christians are not immune to its temptations. Pride and arrogance, anger and hate, gossip and backbiting, immodesty and profanity – all these and more are among the sins that can be observed and participated in on FB.

    Why is FB so popular?  What makes people post things on FB they would not otherwise say or do?  What are some of the follies of FB?

    1) FB presents a false sense of freedom from accountability. Typing away on a keyboard can lull you into thinking that whatever you write and post is just “keeping it real” and that you are “just being yourself” – and “that’s always a good thing”. Well, not if the “words of (your) mouth and the meditation of (your) heart” are not acceptable to God (Psa. 19:14). Some things should neither be thought nor spoken (Matt. 12:35). We must remember Jesus said, “every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matt. 12:36-37). That goes for FB postings, too.

    2) FB offers an apparent removal of moral restraints. I’m not sure whether FB gives one the feeling that moral restraints do not apply when posting, or if the postings on FB indicate that one’s moral restraints have already been removed. Probably both. Either way, the result is sin and disgrace. Photos of Christians immodestly dressed provocatively display attitudes of worldliness. We are not to love the world (1 Jn. 2:15-17). Christians must deny ungodliness and worldly lusts to live “soberly, righteously and godly in this present world” (Titus 2:12). FB reveals that some Christians are failing to use moral restraint in word and deed. FB is seen as a tempting “escape” from the bonds of morality imposed by the gospel. Brother or sister in Christ, if you are on FB, be sure your speech is pure and your photos are decent! And, that those posted on your page are, too. You should have zero tolerance here. Delete the offensive postings and remove “friends” who are not decent. Guard your influence (1 Cor. 15:33).

    3) FB holds up privacy to public display and discussion. Some of the things on FB are, frankly, mundane. Who in the world is interested that I “ate my Wheaties” or am “headed to bed”? God’s word says, “He who has knowledge spares his words, and a man of understanding is of a calm spirit. Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; When he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive” (Prov. 17:27-28). It may be time for some Christians to sign off of FB and at least be considered perceptive.

    4) FB provides the perfect venue for those without tongue control.  FB makes it easy to exercise “loose lips” (or in this case, loose fingers). All kinds of disruptions, distortions, evil surmising, gossip and rumor mongering has found its way onto FB. And that means these sins have already found their way into the hearts, the thinking, the attitudes, the language and the conduct of those who post such destructive words. Instead of carefully choosing words, FB makes it easy to post before you think. And that gets you into trouble. Remember, great forest fires begin with a small spark (Jas. 3:5). So, don’t light the match; Post the truth in love (Eph. 4:15).

    5) FB lends itself to mindless chatter – and worse. As someone who writes for public consumption and criticism, I am aware of the effect and the reach of written words. Once written and published, words can do much good or great harm. I try to be thoughtful and careful with what and how I write, knowing my words will outlive me. FB (along with all the other social networking sites – plus email, for that matter), makes it very easy to thoughtlessly write without considering the consequences. Mothers used to tell their daughters not to write anything in your diary you don’t want others to read. Now, everyone’s diary is open to everyone else on FB!

    If you ridicule someone you have become arrogant and unloving. If you post profanity and join in coarse joking you have lowered yourself to join the world in the sewer of vulgarity (Eph. 4:29; 5:3-4). If you post unfounded rumors, malicious gossip and tale bearing you have left the land of brotherly love and crossed over into the land of bitterness and malice (Eph. 4:31-32).

    6) FB can consume your time. We must be good stewards of our time (Eph. 5:16). FB can be addicting; stealing away hours of productivity in school, on the job and in the kingdom of Christ.  The next time you feel the urge to post a message to a friend, why not call them up instead? I’m sure they would love to hear your voice. Now that’s a novel idea! (Prov. 27:17).

    A word to parents. Do you know what your child is posting on FB? If not, find out. You wouldn’t let your child bring a stranger into your home with your knowledge and permission. Do not let them indiscriminately bring strangers into their lives on FB. Adolescent brains are not fully developed yet to be able to completely assess actions and consequences. Don’t be naive, don’t make assumptions, but get the facts. Such knowledge is vital in order to train your children in the way they should go (Prov. 22:6).   —Joe R. Price

A MORBID SUBJECT

    Death is not a subject that is frequently talked about like the weather. Yet death is something we should talk about and consider for it is certain. Life is full of choices but there are two things in life that we do not choose. We did not choose to live for that was decided by our parents. We must live! Neither will we choose to die but we must die. "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment" (Hebrews 9:27).

    Whether we realize it or not, death is an appointment. Appointments with our hairdresser or doctor are ones that we set. The appointment of death is one that has been set for us. The appointments we make are set for a certain time on a certain day. The only uncertainty about death is the time and day when it will occur.

    Death should help us to see that we are better than the animals which God created. In death, it is the body that dies but man has a spirit that continues to live. "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” (James 2:26). "Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it." (Ecclesiastes 12:7). God created us with a soul (spirit) that is in His image (Genesis 1:27). Death is only the end of our fleshly body and earthly existence. Our eternal spirit will be resurrected with a spiritual body to stand and be judged (1 Corinthians 15:35-58; Hebrews 9:27).

    In the Judgement, we will be judged according to truth (Romans 2:2) and God's word is truth (John 17:17). This will serve as the standard of comparison. Our works will be compared to what God's word teaches (Romans 2:6; Revelation 20:13). In the judgment we will not have to concern ourselves with a Judge which might be bribed or prejudiced "for there is no respect of persons with God” (Romans 2:11). Nor do we need to fear that evidence will be kept secret because that will be "the day when God shall judge the secrets of men" (Romans 2:16). "Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do." (Hebrews 4:13).

    Yes, death is certain and I know of no one who will argue otherwise. However, judgment is just as sure and death is certain. In that day, Jesus will come "in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ" (2 Thessalonians 1:8). Have you obeyed the gospel? —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. VII - No. 10      September 29, 2024

SODOM WAS NOT DESTROYED FOR HOMOSEXUALITY?

    In Gen. 19:1-24, we can read of God’s wrath orchestrated against two ancient cities - Sodom and Gomorrah. In v. 4-5, we can see why God destroyed these cities. The ISV translates this passage thusly: “Before they could lie down, all the men of Sodom and its outskirts, both young and old, surrounded the house. They called out to Lot and asked, ‘Where are the men who came to visit you tonight? Bring them out to us so we can have sex with them!’” (also consider the NASB, CSB, GNT, NIV, CEB, GW, and CEV translations). Clearly, these cities were guilty of homosexuality, which brought about the Lord’s swift and utter destruction. Throughout the Bible, God uses Sodom and Gomorrah as evidence to not transgress His laws (see Deut. 29:23; Isa. 3:9, 13:19; Jer. 23:14; Lam. 4:6; Amos 4:11; Matt. 10:15, 11:23- 24; Luke 10:12, 17:28-30). Peter illustrated the danger of living like those citizens by describing God’s destruction against these cities, saying, “By turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes he condemned them to extinction, making them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly” (2 Pet. 2:6). Yet, those who claim homosexuality is not a sin often point to Ezek. 16:49-50 to argue that Sodom was not destroyed for their homosexuality. Since this argument is a common talking point for those claiming homosexuality is not a sin, let’s consider if this argument is rooted in truth or error.

    Ezek.16:49-50 reads, “Behold, this was the guilt of your sister Sodom: she and her daughters had pride, excess of food, and prosperous ease, but did not aid the poor and needy. They were haughty and did an abomination before me. So I removed them, when I saw it.” It is clear, based on these verses, that Sodom was destroyed for a wide range of sins, such as pride and a blatant disregard for the poor and needy. However, we can also clearly and easily understand from God’s Word that another sin contributed to Sodom’s destruction - the sin of sexual immorality.

    Recounting the reason for Sodom and Gomorrah’s destruction, Jude explains, “Just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire” (Jude 7). As if the original account in Gen. 19:1-24 was not already abundantly clear that these people committed sexual immorality through acts of homosexuality, Jude 7 verifies this eternal truth. Thus, Sodom was, in fact, guilty of homosexuality, which - along with their pride and disregard for the needy - contributed to their utter destruction by God.

CONCLUSION

    Sodom fell to various temptations, and the Bible is clear they were guilty of homosexuality. Homosexuality was a transgression of the Law of Moses (Lev. 18:22; 20:13) and continues to stand in contrast to Christ’s law under the New Testament today (1 Cor. 6:9-10; 1 Tim. 1:9-10; Rom. 1:26-27; Rev. 21:8). Let us learn from the example of Sodom, who were described as “great sinners against the Lord” (Gen. 13:13), committing “very grave” sins (Gen. 18:20). Let us all resist the temptations to grow prideful and ignore the needs of the poor, as well as resist the sin of homosexuality.

 —Dylan Stewart
Taken from The Whole Counsel Of God,
May 2024 Vol. I, Number 5

MASONRY IS A RELIGION

    In consideration of false religions, we must of necessity consider Freemasonry. This may seem odd, even to those who are involved in this organization because most people do not know that Masonry is a religion. In Morals and Dogma, by Albert Pike, 1932 edition, page 196 we read: "The religious faith thus taught by Masonry is indispensable to the attainments of the great ends of life". On page 213: "Every Masonic Lodge is a temple of religion; and its teachings are instruction in religion". In fact, Masonry claims for itself to be the "true religion": "This is the true religion revealed to the ancient patriarchs; which Masonry has taught for many centuries, and which it will continue to teach as long as time endures." (Ibid., page 214). "That Rite raises a corner of the veil, even in the Degree of Apprentice; for it there declares that Masonry is a worship." (Ibid., page 219). "Masonry is a worship;... " (Ibid., page 526).

    Masonry, while trying to maintain respect for the Bible, makes statements that cast doubtful reflections on it's divine inspiration. On pages 99,100, and 252, Albert Pike states that the apostles John and Paul wrote in the language of Philo. Yet, Paul says the things he wrote were the "commandments of the Lord" (1 Corinthians 14:37). In fact, Masonry sees inspiration in many things other than the Bible: "The Gospel is preached from many a book and painting, from many a poem and fiction, and review and newspaper; and it is a painful error and miserable narrowness, not to recognize these widespread agencies of Heaven's providing; not to see and welcome these many-handed coadjutors to the great and good cause. The oracles of God do not speak from the pulpit alone." (Ibid., pages 212-213). Concerning truth, Masonry says, "All truths are Truths of Period, and not truths for eternity." (Ibid., page 37).

    Masonry is a universal religion. Dr. Albert Mackey in the Encyclopedia of Freemasonry (1929 Edition, Revised and Enlarged by Robert Clegg), page 847, says, “No disbeliever in the existence of a God can be made a Freemason.". Though this may sound noble we must notice he said, "a God". Being a universal religion, it must and does recognize other gods. "If Freemasonry were simply a Christian institution, the Jew and the Moslem, the Braham and the Buddhist could not conscientiously partake of its illumination; but its universality is its boast" (Ibid., page 579).

    Like all religions, Masonry offers salvation. "It is the Theocratic Philosophy of Freemasonry that commands our unqualified esteem, and seals in our heart that love for the Institution which will produce an active religious faith and practice, and leads
in the end to 'a building not made with hands, eternal in the heavens’... (Ibid., page 1035).

    Yes, Masonry is a religion; a false religion.  —E.R. Hall, Jr.

PERIHELION

    Perihelion in Astronomy is a moment in time that is measured and determined by a mathematical calculation. It is the point in the orbit of a planet, or an asteroid, or a comet at which it is the nearest to the sun. Perihelion is derived in its meaning by two parts in Latin. Peri meaning around and Helios meaning the sun. Peri in Greek would imply closeness. Perihelion for our planet occurred on January 4th of 2023 at 11:17 AM Eastern Standard Time. Perihelion occurs about two weeks after the winter solstice, which is the shortest day of the year. People are often puzzled by this fact and question is validity because this January date is in the winter, the coldest part of the year. How can it be that we are at our nearest point to the sun, but it is our coldest season. To add even more confusion to this matter, consider that Aphelion, which is the point at which we are the greatest distance from the sun, occurs in July. This would normally be about two weeks after the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. How can all of this be true? Well… It's all about the angle.

    The earth is tilted on its rotational axis at an angle of about 23.5 degrees. One rotation on this axis gives us one day. The earth makes an orbit around the sun every 365 days or so; one orbit gives us one year. It is this angle in the earth's rotational axis that causes our seasons. All these variables that we've discussed are part of the original design that was implemented by God and are sustained by Him, Hebrews 1:3 “…and upholding all things by the word of His power”. This tilting of the earth on its rotational axis is what determines how efficiently the Sun's radiation will be absorbed by the earth, causing a warming effect. During the winter months, the northern hemisphere where we live experiences more deflection and less absorption of radiation from the sun than in the summer months. Hence the difference in temperature despite the change in distance from the sun. The change in distance from the sun from the winter to the summer, though significant, about 3,100,000 miles, cannot overcome the change of temperature caused by this angle.

    When you consider the word angle and words that are synonymous to it, you come up with words like perspective, or point of view.  Approach and slant might also be listed. When you look for words for which angle would be a synonym, one word that you frequently might see would be attitude. For something that travels in flight, attitude is of the utmost importance because it helps govern the direction of flight, but also it impacts our position relative to our horizon line / our point of focus.

    As God's children we know that we are sojourners and travelers in this life under the sun. We also know that our attitude has everything to do with our relationship to the Son of God. Peter pleads with the beloved in 1 Peter 2: 11 “…as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul”. These fleshly wars that we experience have eternal implications that will affect us long after this life is over, whether their effects be good or bad.

    But we, unlike planets, comets, and asteroids, whose trajectory and plane are governed by another; can decide to change our attitude and be closer to the Son. James 4:8 says it this way, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you”. The warming and nourishing effects of us drawing nearer to our God can and will have a positive, eternal, effect on our souls.

    Let me suggest to you that Christians, as travelers in God's creation, have seasons to their lives, and our attitude and relationship to the Son will have a determining effect on the fruitfulness of these seasons .The spring season for the child of God could be when we are newborn babes as 1 Pet. 2:2 describes “as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby”.  In John 15:5 Jesus with the use of these words describes a close relationship to Him that could be viewed as our summertime or growing season, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing”. Paul when writing to the church at Galatia wrote these words by inspiration “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not loose heart”, Gal 6:9. Clearly the harvest season for the Christian is what is being pictured here. Paul again writing to Timothy describes what might be summed up as the winter season of his life in 2 Tim. 4:6-7, “For I am already being poured out as an drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith”.

    We are created in the image and likeness of our God and Father and are by our very nature eternal beings Gen. 1:26. This time of our sojourning under the sun as Solomon describes it is only the very beginning of our journey. When our life here ends, eternity begins. That thought I know is a daunting one. We can be in control of the trajectory and outcome of our final, eternal journey. To quote an old Star Trek line “We are at the helm”. We are in control of our lives and the path we choose on this journey is one of great consequence.  Choose the strait and narrow path that is difficult, that few find but is the one that leads to eternal life. Obey God while you have opportunity. Stop resisting…  —Blind Bartimaeus 23

"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