What The Bible Says

Vol. VII - No. 25   May 11, 2025

THE LOUDEST SOUND

    Sound is one of the five main senses. Listed they include sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. Some refer to these as the big five. There are other senses like pain, temperature, or pressure and many more like this. Some have concluded there might be as many as 21 senses. Have you considered that pressure can be measured and experienced physically, as well as psychologically? There can be no doubt that mankind's sensory abilities are a gift from God and worthy of admiration.

    As we consider sound in this writing let us understand this is not intended to be a technical article but rather an awakening. Sound is an auditory perception. It is our ability to detect vibrations as periodic changes in the pressure of a surrounding medium. Sound travels as a wave, and can be propelled via a gas, liquid or a solid. Sound is a form of energy traveling through substances in longitudinal waves. Sound waves are measurable and predictable. Sound waves are very diverse and technical. Amplitude is a measurement of the amount of energy transferred by a sound wave.

    Amplitude is loudness or volume. High amplitude is loud, low amplitude is quiet. We measure loudness in decibels. The louder the sound, the more energy required to create that high amplitude, high decibel sound.

    There has been much written and speculated about the loudest sound and it is largely believed to be a sound heard on August 27th, 1883. On this date, there was a volcanic eruption on the Indonesian island of Krakatoa. This explosion was heard over 3000 miles away. That would be like standing in New York City and hearing an explosion in Ireland. This sound was measured on barometers as a pressure wave that traveled around the entire globe multiple times in the subsequent 5 days. The amplitude or loudness of this eruption was measured between 178 and 190 decibels 100 miles away in Jakarta. Scientists estimate that the decibel level at the site of this explosion would be somewhere in the 310 DB range. It is believed to be the loudest sound ever heard on the face of our planet.

    By way of comparison a 12-gauge shotgun is about 165 decibels. Our hearing tissue becomes damaged at 180 decibels and above. The loudest audible sound possible is measured at 194 decibels, after that sound no longer travels on air, but rather pushes it in the form of a shockwave.

    The immense power unleashed at Krakatoa in 1883 is certainly something to marvel at. Consider also that there was a tidal wave emanating from the site that some estimates put at around 30 meters or 100 ft. The energy released also hurled rocks to a height of 34 miles into our atmosphere.

    I have contemplated this subject for a while now and use historical documents in my consideration just as the experts do. I think it would be to the chagrin of most who study this topic, but I believe the loudest sound has yet to be heard. Consider from God's word what is recorded in first Thessalonians 4:16 “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then those who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord”. This event has been further described in a reading in first Corinthians 15:51-52 “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 trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed”.

    Would you consider for a moment that this shout and this trumpet sound, and the voice of an archangel is what happens at the announcement of the coming of Jesus Christ in the Glory of His Father? In Matthew 17:27 “For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels and then He will reward each according to his works”. There's another reading that comes from Revelation 1:7 which reads “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen”.

    In Gods revealed word there are many scenes of awe and wonderment pictured. There are many depictions of His might and grandeur. One such is in Psa. 29:3-9 “The voice of the Lord is over the waters; The God of glory thunders: The Lord is over many waters. The voice of the Lord is powerful; The voice of the Lord is full of majesty. The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars, Yes, the Lord splinters the cedars of Lebanon. He makes them also skip like a calf, Lebanon and Sirion like a young wild ox. The voice of the Lord divides the flames of fire. The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness; The Lord shakes the wilderness of Kadesh. The voice of the Lord makes the deer give birth and strips the forest bare; And in His temple everyone says “Glory!”. In Genesis 1:3 the passage begins with “Then God said”. The God of heaven is the only true and living God and He is the power behind the trumpet and the shout. It will be at His command that the archangel will speak. Matt.24:36 records “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only”. I hope you will consider the loudest sound and tune your ear to the correct frequency because it is in all our futures. Obey God while you have opportunity. Stop resisting…  --Blind Bartimaeus 23

ARE YOU WILLING TO ACCEPT ALL THE TRUTH?

    Many folks think that everything they need to know on any Bible subject can be found in one verse. When they think they have found that verse, they are unwilling to accept any other verse that might explain the full meaning or give additional instructions concerning the matter. While nearly all would agree with the title of this article, is that really the case? Are we willing to search for all the truth and accept it when it is found?

    Not all truth on a Bible subject or Bible question can be found in one verse. Take, for example, the incident in Jesus' life recorded in Mark 10:17. There "came one running" to Jesus. Who was this person? Were they male or female? It is not until we look in the parallel account of Matthew 19:20 that we learn it was a "young man". What do we know about this young man who came running to Jesus? When we look in Luke 18:18 we find he was a "ruler" and verse 23 tells us he was "very rich". After looking in three books and four verses we conclude the "one" who came running to Jesus was a man who was a rich young ruler. I admit, this is not a matter of eternal consequences but the point is this: not everything we could learn about this man was found in one verse.

    There are Bible subjects and Bible questions that have serious eternal consequences. For example: What must I do to be saved? Many people think John 3:16 gives the all sufficient answer: “believe" or have faith. Is this all the truth in the Scriptures that gives answer to this vital question? How do we "believe" or have faith? Romans 10:17 says, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Also, Jesus said, "It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me."(John 6:45). In order to have faith we must hear and learn the word of God. Is hearing and knowing all there is? Jesus said in Matthew 7:2, "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." But Jesus also said, "Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish" (Luke 13:3) and "Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 10:32). We learn what confessing is from Romans 10:10: "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." Thus we learn that we confess with our mouth what we have been taught and believe from the word of God. But concerning being saved Jesus had something else to say: "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." (Mark 16:16).

    So, from four books and eight verses we learn all the truth concerning what to do to be saved from sin. The conclusion is that we must hear, believe, repent, confess, and be baptized. Are we willing to accept all the truth on this vital subject? —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. 23   April 13, 2025

DOES GOD SHOW PARTIALITY?

We can read in Acts 10:34-35 that God is not a respecter of persons but everyone who fears God and works righteousness is accepted by him. From verse 34 we learn that God does not show respect toward anyone due to their nationality, social status, financial standing or any other related criteria. However, verse 35 states that God conditionally accepts everyone that fears Him and works righteousness. Let's consider some bible principals.
    First, we need to understand the concept of working righteousness. Romans 1:16-17 teaches us that righteousness is found in the word of God. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 teaches us that all scripture is inspired of God and is able to make us complete, equipped for every good work. Therefore, when we work righteousness, we are doing what is taught in the word of God.
Question: When someone says that God speaks to them directly apart and in addition to the word of God is this working righteousness? No, because this goes beyond and adds to the word of God.
Mark 16:16 Jesus said He that believes and is baptized shall be saved. Acts 2:37 Peter answers those who are convicted of their sins as to what they must do to receive forgiveness. In Acts 2:38 Peter tells them to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
Question: When someone teaches that we are saved by faith alone are they working righteousness when they fail to teach all the source of righteousness reveals concerning salvation? —Gerald White

"REMEMBERING HIS RESURRECTION ANNUALLY"

    The calendar reads "Easter Sunday." As a result, many people throughout the world will be attending the "church of their choice" to remember the resurrection of Jesus. It won't be the "normal" service, but rather a "special" service of remembering the resurrection of our Lord that no doubt will include different plays, skits, and dramas. The world calls this day "Easter Sunday” the day of our Lord's resurrection from the grave. But is it really?

    I don't recall reading anywhere in the Bible of the day nor the special celebration of the resurrection mentioned. Yet many "good intentioned people", honestly believing that they are commemorating the resurrection of Christ, celebrate this "holy day" having no biblical authority whatsoever for the practice. Because of tradition, most people today believe that Easter has always been observed from apostolic times and is authorized in the scriptures. But how could they get such an idea?

    There is an unfortunate translation in the King James Version of the New Testament which has, perhaps, led some astray. The Greek, PASCHA, is translated by the word, "Easter" in Acts 12:4.

    This same word is properly translated in other versions and in every other passage where it is used in the King James Version, as “Passover". Undoubtedly it was mistranslated here in Acts. And even if the word was properly translated, there is still no authority here for the observance of anything.

    That is why "Easter" as we know it, is celebrated without proper Bible authority. The text of Acts 12:4 was in regard to the apostle Peter when he was put into prison during the days of "Unleavened Bread" or "Passover" as the NKJV, ASV, NASV, & NIV indicates. It is obvious that this passage of scripture is referring to the seven-day Passover festival. There is no place indicated in the New Testament that a "yearly" celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ was ever practiced. Yet today, thousands of people remember Him only this one day per year and they make it a grand festival.

Where Did Easter Come From Anyway?

    The word "Easter" is derived from the Anglo-Saxon word "Eostre," the name of the goddess of Spring. Sacrifices were offered in her honor at the first full moon that came at the time of the vernal equinox. By the 8th century, the term came to be applied to the anniversary of Christ’s resurrection (ISBE, Vol 2, page 6). There has been much controversy about the time of this celebration. The Jewish Christians and Gentiles could not agree on a set date. But as time passed an increasing number of people celebrated the anniversary of the resurrection on the first day of the week annually. By the 7th century the practice of religious groups had become universally uniform. The agreed upon time is now the first Sunday following the full moon that comes on or after the vernal equinox and that date was set as March 21st. This is why there is a variation in Easter dates from March 22nd through April 25th. There has even been talk among the different religions as setting the date permanently on one Sunday between March 21st and April 25th.

The Proper Remembrance Of Jesus

    I've filled you in on the history of this word "Easter" so that you will understand that it originated as a pagan holiday festival and later became a yearly festival to remember the resurrection of Christ among different religious groups across the world.

    The Lord's church does not celebrate "Easter." Members of the Lord's church celebrate the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ on the first day of every week as we are instructed in the New Testament. We can turn to the book of Acts and read: "Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread..." (Acts 20:7). We have an approved example from this text that lets every Christian know when one is to partake of the emblems which represent Christ's shed body for us. It says the "first day of the week". It does not say “The first day of the week, once a year!" In 1 Corinthians 11:23-29, we can further understand the significance of this memorial feast that we partake of weekly. We learn that it represents the body and blood of Jesus and it says: "For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death till He comes." Again, how often should a Christian eat the bread and drink the cup? The first day of the week! 

    There are many religious denominations out there today that do not partake of the Lord's Supper once per week. Some will do it bi-monthly, others monthly, still others just once or twice per year. Any individual that is striving to do "all the oracles of God" (1 Pet 4:11), must understand that God sets the standard (rules) that we must go by today - not man (Acts 5:29). The New Testament is our standard. I urge you to examine the Bible, and then look at what you may be practicing in your religion, and then determine whether it is from God or from man.   —Richard Thetford

BIBLE READING IS DESTRUCTIVE

    Conversion means turning or changing. We convert water to ice, a log to lumber, and wood to paper. From such examples we can understand what conversion means - it is a changing process wherein something is changed from one form into another. While the end result is the goal, the process is essential in order for the end result to be an achieved. As little as you may have thought about it, the above statement is true. There is destruction in reading the Bible because such reading will destroy certain things as far as that particular person is concerned.

    Denominational theories are destroyed by Bible reading. My father destroyed his own denominational teaching because he read the Bible. He had preached for eighteen years and had been told the Lord must “lay the message on your heart or else it has no power”. Yet, he realized the words were not coming to him “directly from the Lord” so he began studying the Bible and found the things he was preaching from his heart was not in the Bible. Things which he had preached like: “Come down to the old-fashion altar and pray your sins away” and “A person is saved before he is baptized”, he soon discovered were destroyed by the Bible because of such verses he read like John 9:31 and Mark 16:16.

    His Bible reading also destroyed the denominational organization he had been a member of for many years. In the first place, the Bible did not mention the name of the organization. Not only could he not find the Baptist church mentioned in the Bible neither could he find other common names such as the Methodist church, Catholic Church, or Christian church. As he read, the Bible also destroyed the worship and practices of such organizations. The use of solos, duets, and quartets for singing and mechanical instruments of music in worship were destroyed by the Bible from verses he read like Ephesians 5:19 and Colossians 3:16. The semi-annual or annual observance of the Lord’s supper was also destroyed by his reading the Bible and finding Acts 20:7.

    Let us read the Bible like he did: with an open mind. Let us believe and practice what God says and not what we might have believed or practiced in the past. He who reads for himself with an open mind will derive benefits untold from the Word of the Lord!  —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. 23   April 13, 2025

DO MEN HAVE THE POWER FROM GOD TO PERFORM MIRACLES?

    There are many people who believe and teach that people today receive from God and exercise miraculous power as the apostles (and some upon whom the apostles laid their hands-Acts 8:18) did in the first century. QUESTION: Is there any Scriptural proof that anyone today receives miraculous power from God as some did in the first century?

    Holy Spirit baptism and other gifts of the Holy Spirit along with signs, wonders, and divers miracles were necessary in the first century for the revelation and confirmation of the Word of God unto man. (Read carefully John 14:25-26; 16:13; Hebrews 2:3-4; Mark 16:20). Once the Word of God was completely revealed to inspired men, confirmed and given to the world in written form, there would be no further need of miracle working power in the church! The apostle Paul declared: "...though it be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto." (Galatians 3:15). NOTE: By the close of the first century God's Word had been completely revealed, confirmed, and given in written form. (See 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:3; 1 Corinthians 4:6; 2 John 9; Revelation 22:18-19, and Jude 3). In James 1:25 we read: "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." It is obvious from this passage that we have a perfect law of liberty! No more revelation is needed!

These additional observations may help clarify the truth. 

1. When the need for the revelation and confirmation of God's Word ceased because it was fulfilled, the baptism of the Holy Spirit and other gifts of the Holy Spirit that were needed to accomplish the revelation and confirmation of the Word of God ceased! NOTE: Cornelius (and others) received Holy Spirit baptism to assure the Gentiles and convince the Jews that God had to the Gentiles granted "repentance unto life". (See Acts 10 and 11). This was a one time event that did not need to be repeated. 

2. After the pouring out of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost in Acts 2 there is no evidence that the apostles (or those on whom they laid their hands) ever tried to perform a miracle and failed! (Acts 5:16). NOTE: The apostles had been told that they would receive power after the Holy Ghost came upon them. (Acts 1:8). Obviously they did receive power! They could even raise the dead! (Peter in Acts 9:36-42 and Paul in Acts 20:7-12).

3. The fact that Jesus Christ performed miracles in the first century is no proof that He is doing the same thing today. Although Jesus is "the same yesterday, today, and forever" as Hebrews 13:8 says is no proof that He is now performing miracles as He did in the first century. Consider the following:
A. Although Jesus Christ is the same He is NOT creating the earth and all things therein as He once did! (See Colossians 1:16-17; John 1:1-14; Hebrews 1:1-2; Revelation 3:14).
B. Although Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever, He is not turning water into wine, or miraculously multiplying a few loaves and a few fishes, or raising the dead as He did in the first century (John 2:1-11; Matthew 14:15-21; John 11:30-46)
C. Neither is Jesus Christ NOW personally walking on the shores of Galilee nor dying on the cross NOW as He once did! No!

    Men today do not have power from God to perform miracles as some had in the first century!   —Carroll R. Sutton

CONVERSION

    Conversion means turning or changing. We convert water to ice, a log to lumber, and wood to paper. From such examples we can understand what conversion means - it is a changing process wherein something is changed from one form into another. While the end result is the goal, the process is essential in order for the end result to be an achieved.

    Conversion is also a Bible word and is used primarily of converting a sinner to a Christian; from a lost condition to a saved condition. While this is the end result, the process by which conversion is done is absolutely essential. The process is necessary in order for the full conversion to take place. The conversion of a sinner to a Christian demands a complete change that includes three areas: (1) A change of mind (heart) which is accomplished by the teaching of God's word. (2) A change of conduct. A change of heart must lead to a change in the way we live. In the Scriptures this is called "repentance". (3) A change in relationship. As in all conversions, there is a final act that makes the conversion complete. So it is in becoming a Christian. The final act that transfers one from the world and puts them into Christ is baptism. "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ." (Galatians 3:27). "Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Christ were baptized into His death?” (Romans 6:3).

    Conversion begins with the preaching and teaching of God's word and ends with baptism. It is from the waters of baptism that we rise to "walk in newness of life" (Romans 6:3-4). If we are to be converted like those we read about in the New Testament, specifically those recorded in the book of Acts, we must examine their conversion and do no more nor no less than they did. When we add up the totality of what the New Testament reveals about the conversions, we can have the complete picture of what we need to do to be converted from a sinner to a Christian; from one who is in sin and lost to one who's sins are forgiven and is a child of God.

    Study carefully each conversion. Read the scriptures again and again to notice what was done. This will reveal the process by which conversion took place. Certainly there will be things that are incidental from one case to another but, particularly, note the similarities in each example.

    Surely we can see that our conversion to God depends upon our hearing, believing, repenting, confessing, and being baptized. Our change must be of heart, life, and relationship. Men may, and often do, present other rules of conversion but such are not from God and will not reconcile man to God. "There is a way which seemeth right unto man; But the end thereof are the ways of death" (Prov. 14:12). God has given the process. Let us be content with accepting, obeying, and teaching only that which God has revealed.
 —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. 22   March 30, 2025

CAN A MAN SAVE HIMSELF?

    There is a great deal of emphasis being put on a man-made doctrine which teaches it is impossible for a person to do anything towards salvation from sin. This doctrine sets forth the idea that any action, on the part of a person, nullifies the grace of God.

    The Bible teaches that salvation is dependent upon both DIVINE and HUMAN action. It shows very clearly what God does to save the sinner and what the sinner must do to save himself. God's part in our salvation is comprehended in the word "GRACE". Our part in our salvation is comprehended in the word "FAITH". Our faith is shown by our obedience to the will of God. "For by grace are ye saved through faith..."(Ephesians 2:8).

THE DIVINE SIDE. God conceived the plan of salvation, Christ made it possible by His death, and the Holy Spirit revealed it through inspired men. Thus God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit play a most vital part in our salvation. We are saved by grace (Eph. 2:8) as we are cleansed by the blood of Christ (1 John 1:7). We have no righteousness or merit with which to boast ourselves to God and He is under no obligation to save us. We must depend upon God's mercy and upon Christ's atoning blood.  

THE HUMAN SIDE. When the gospel is preached, we must hear it with an open mind and receptive heart (Romans 10:17; Ephesians 1:13). We must repent of all sins, for this God has commanded us to do (Acts 17:30). We must confess Jesus as the Son of God (Acts 8:37; Romans 10:9-10). Then we must be baptized (Mark 16:16; Acts 8:37-39). Baptism is always "for the remission of sins" (Acts 2:38), to "wash away sins" (Acts 22:16), to put us "into Christ“ (Galatians 3:27), and to "save us“ (1 Peter 3:21). These are actions which WE, you and I, must take. God cannot believe for us nor repent for us nor confess for us nor be baptized for us. We are commanded to do these things in obedience to HIS requirements. When we do that which God has commanded we have not earned nor have we merited salvation. This is how we benefit from the grace of God or else everybody will be saved and no one will be lost.

    If it is true that we cannot do anything to save ourselves, then it follows that our salvation is wholly dependent upon God and it will be the fault of God if anybody is lost! If not, why not? However, God is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9). If a person is lost, it will be because THEY CHOSE to be lost. The same is true if we are to be saved; WE MUST CHOOSE to do what God commands. The Bible says, "...save yourselves from this untoward generation" (Acts 2:40). Again, "...work out your own salvation with fear and trembling" (Philippians 2:12). Christ is the "author of eternal salvation unto all that obey Him" (Hebrews 5:9). —E.R. Hall, Jr.

KINDS OF WORKS

    The Scriptures have a good deal to say about works. Since they have both positive and negative things to say about works, it is necessary to identify the particular kinds of works of which the Scriptures speak. It is obvious that the works of Christ are very different from Satan's works. It should also be obvious that works of human wisdom originating with men are very different from works of God's righteousness performed by people for the purposes that God has for them.

    The works of God are the things that God has done (Psa. 111:2-6; Heb. 4:4). The works of God are also works that God has instructed people to do (Jn. 6:28,29; 9:4; Rom. 14:20). These are not works of lawlessness, and those who do them are not workers of iniquity (Mt. 7:21-23). People will be rewarded with eternal life in the Day of Judgment through their works (that is, through doing the works of God) (Rom. 2:5-11; 2 Cor. 11:15; Rev. 20:12-13).

    Works of righteousness are deeds of goodness and kindness in obedience to God. Under the Law of Moses, they consisted of doing what was right according to the commandment of the law (Ezek. 18; Rom. 10:5; Gal. 3:12). These works do not atone for one's sins of omission and commission. Sacrifices of atonement were the means by which the Jews were to deal with their sins (Heb. 9:7; Lev. 4-6). Yet it was not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins (Heb. 10:4). These things were a shadow of the true sacrifice, the Lamb of God who died for us and for them by the grace of God (Heb. 10:1-18).

    Works of faith are the doing (obedience) which faith requires of us and for the purposes that faith reveals. Listening receptively (Mt. 11:15; 13:9,43), believing through the persuasion of the evidence (Jn. 14:10,11; Heb. 11:1), repenting of one's sins at the command of the faith (Acts 17:30), confessing Christ (Rom. 10:9-10), and being baptized for salvation through the blood of Christ (Mk. 16:16; Col. 2:12) are works of faith for the purpose of obtaining remission of sins. Living as children of God by the instruction in righteousness given by the Holy Spirit in the New Testament is also doing the works of faith by which we remain in fellowship with God and have our sins which we have committed (as children of God) cleansed by the blood of Christ (1 Jn. 1:6-10). Do works of faith save? Yes, they save because they are an essential part of saving faith (Jas. 2:14-26). "What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him?" How would you answer these questions?

    The works of the flesh are the sinful deeds done to gratify the appetites of the flesh (Gal. 5:19-26). We must exercise self-control, bringing our bodies into subjection to righteousness if we expect to be accepted with God (2 Pet. 1:5-11; 1 Cor. 9:27; 2 Tim. 3:16,17; Acts 10:34,35; Jas. 3:13). We must crucify the flesh with its affections and lusts (Gal. 2:20; 5:24), having died to sin and risen to walk in newness of life (Rom. 6:1-23). —Gilbert Alexander

TRENDS...

    Belief in absolute standards for right and wrong by religious group:  Catholic, 30%; Mainline Protestant, 32%; Evangelical Protestant, 50%; Jehovah’s Witness, 57%; Mormon, 57%           

SENTENCE SERMONS

A poor listener seldom hears a good sermon.
 ***
Attitudes are nothing more than habits of thought – and habits can be acquired.
***
Don’t confuse God’s patience with His final response.
*** 
Many people ignore God and then blame Him for the chaos that results.
 ***
You can fool yourself and others, but you can never fool 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. VII - No. 21   March 16, 2025

THE SINNER'S PRAYER

    Quite often in reading religious material or engaging in religious conversation with others, the reference is made to "the sinner's prayer". What is being referred to is the parable Jesus taught in Luke 18:9-14. By referring to this parable, many people would have you believe this is what a person must do to be saved. However, what was Jesus attempting to teach by means of this parable? Was it, what to do to be saved or was there another lesson He was teaching?

    Verse 9 says, "And he spake this parable UNTO CERTAIN WHICH TRUSTED IN THEMSELVES THAT THEY WERE RIGHTEOUS, AND DESPISED OTHERS:". Jesus concluded the parable in verse 14 by making the statement: "...for everyone that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted." We, therefore, learn that Jesus is using this parable to teach humility. Humbleness will avail far more in God's sight than a high and haughty attitude.

    All of us stand before God having sinned. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" (Romans 3:23). "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”; "If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” (1 John 1:8,10). Realizing we have sinned, we must never approach God in any manner other than that of humility. Also, realizing that sin is the common lot of us all, we must not despise others.

    Jesus said that both the Pharisee and publican had went up to the temple to pray. What is to make us believe that the Pharisee was a child of God and the publican was not? Nothing in the parable states this to be the case. In fact, from the parable it would be no injustice to conclude that both these men were children of God. Though publicans had the reputation of being greedy because of their profession of being tax collectors, this is not to conclude that all publicans were ruthless and covetous. One of Jesus' apostles was a publican: Matthew (Matthew 9:9). Neither let us forget Zaccheus who was chief among the publicans (Luke 19:1-10).

    There is nothing in the parable to teach us that the Pharisee was saved and the publican was lost. Both men were obviously children of God for both had went to the temple and both were praying. The point of the parable was that the Pharisee's prayer was unacceptable to God because he exalted himself, he trusted in himself that he was righteous, and he despised others. The publican, on the other hand, was justified in his prayer for he had not exalted himself but rather realized he had sinned and always stood in need of God's mercy.

    Friends, this is not a prayer that alien sinners must/should pray in order to have their sins forgiven. Saul of Tarsus was praying when Ananias came to him to tell him what to do to be saved. However, the record does not reveal that Ananias told Saul to continue to pray until he had "prayed through" to salvation as some religious groups teach. Instead, Ananias said, "And now why tarriest thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Acts 22:16).

    In addition to people being told today to pray the sinner's prayer, they are being told to pray their sins away. Friends, we do not find, in the Scriptures, where an alien sinner was ever told to pray their sins away but we do read where they were told to "wash away thy sins" by the act of baptism. Baptism is the final step which one must take in order to have their sins washed away and to be "in Christ" (Galatians 3:27).

    Many teach sins are already taken away before baptism and a person is in Christ without ever being baptized. However, to find the basis of such teaching we have to turn to the doctrines of men for these are not things we can find taught in the Bible.

    There is no "sinner's prayer" that an alien sinner can pray and have their sins forgiven. As sure as "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God", God has one plan of salvation for all. "He that BELIEVETH and is BAPTIZED shall be saved; but HE THAT BELIEVETH NOT SHALL BE DAMNED." (Mark 16:16). "...REPENT, and be BAPTIZED every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins,..." (Acts 2:38).  —E.R. Hall, Jr.

FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE

    More and more we hear folks deciding to attend a certain ‘church’ because “there are lots of good activities for the young people”. Often it is the sole basis for making this important determination. ‘Pro­grams’, ‘activities’, and ‘groups’ for the young people – that’s the drawing card.

    And, what activities are these folks searching for? Are we talking here about carefully arranged Bible classes that seek to instill an understanding of God’s word in the hearts of our young people? Is it sound teaching from the pulpit and scrip­tural practice in the way the church does its business so that the young folks can learn respect for Bible authority? Is it love between brethren that manifests it­self by each individual demonstrating “hospitality one to another” (1 Pet. 4:9)?

    Sadly, the answer is no. Instead, the activities that are desired “for the young people” are fun and games – ‘youth groups’ that sponsor parties, retreats, outings, camps, softball and basketball leagues, etc. ‘’The bigger the better’ and ‘the more the merrier’ seem to be the rule.

    Lest anyone misunderstand, let it be known that we love basketball, baseball, camping, parties . . . and fun and food in general! We strongly favor such things being provided as an avenue of ‘good, clean fun’ for our young folks. But we insist that there is no authority in the Bible for the church to provide such. Let parents who really care see to it that the kids have these needed diversions, and let the church keep to its important authorized work. There’s nothing better for our young people than this.
—Greg Gwin  Via The Beacon, 5/4/21

EXALTING CHRIST

    How do we exalt Christ?  We exalt Christ when we preach His word, when we follow His teaching, when we do only that which He authorizes, when we wear only His name, when we make Him the center of our affection and adoration, when we recognize Him as our only Head, Lord, and King. To do otherwise is to fail to exalt Him.  —Bill Hall

SENTENCE SERMONS

God speaks to all who take time to listen. Have you read His word lately?
***
Following Christ is not an escape from life — it is life!
***
Even folks on the level will have their ups and downs.
***
The easiest road to travel is the one that goes down.
***
The strongest evidence of love is sacrifice.
***
Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.

"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