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

What The Bible Says

Vol. V - No. 7 / August 28, 2022

FOR SUCH IS THE KINGDOM OF GOD

       Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God” (Mk. 10:19). This was in response to His disciples rebuking them.

    This shows us that God and man have two different ways of looking at things. The disciples, mere men, thought the children were a nuisance; Jesus, God, thought they were precious. God’s ways are neither our ways, nor His thoughts our thoughts (Isa. 55:8,9). We also learn the nature of those who make up the Kingdom. They are child-like in character and quality.

Children are humble. They rarely think themselves to be something they are not. They do not put on airs for others. Just look at those who have mud or chocolate smeared on their clothes and have no shame whatsoever. Many proudly wear a milk mustache. To be a part of the Kingdom, we must have such a humble attitude (Prov. 16:18, 19).

Children are also tenderhearted. When their friend is hurt, it bothers them. If a baby is crying, they often ask why and want it fixed for the baby’s sake—not their nerves. When mommy or daddy is down, a child will give them a hug or snuggle up to them. They care about others. How many children have wanted to take home that “sad looking” kitty cat, puppy, or turtle? The Lord commands us to be tenderhearted toward one another (Eph. 4:32). Without this disposition, we cannot be part of the Kingdom.

Purity is another quality children possess. Their minds may have some mischief every once in a while (I can hear a mother protesting now, “every once in a while”?!?). However, their little hearts are not thinking about doing evil to others. They do not devise plans to rob banks, cheat the store owner, or destroy the life of their neighbor. Rather, they think of what they can play next; cars, dolls, tag, etc. I am convinced one of the reasons God gives us babies who grow into children is for us to see there is purity in this world and how sweet it is—as opposed to giving us teens that are “difficult.” Purity is needed to be a child of God (Phil. 4:8).

Another quality of the young is trust. They inherently trust their parents. Think of the baby or toddler whose parent throws her into the air. Would you let someone else do that to you? It is hard for me at times to ride in a car with others. Yet, children rarely think twice about their own safety because of the trust they have. It is amazing and a great example for us; not necessarily to trust in others, but to put our faith in God. A Christian is to trust God implicitly (2 Cor. 1:8-10). He does and will take care of us.

    Is your character more like a child or a cranky, grumpy, cynical old man? It will impact your joy in this life, not to mention your eternal destiny.  —Author Unknown

ENTERING THE CHURCH?

    The Scriptures reveal that the church displays the wisdom of God (Ephesians 3:10) and was a part of His eternal purpose (Ephesians 2:11). The church’s origin, organization, worship, and work are clearly set forth in the Scriptures. So, also, are the requirements for a person to enter into the church. How does one become a member of the church that belongs to  Christ? What does the Holy Scriptures, namely the New Testament, teach?

WE MUST BE “BORN AGAIN”. “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3,5). In Acts 2 we see this rebirth take place. Peter said, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:38).

WE MUST BE “CONVERTED”. “Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3). Since “the kingdom” is “the church” (Matthew  16:18-19), conversion puts one into the church. “Converted” means changed. When we are “converted” we have a change of heart that leads to a change in our behavior and actions. We believe with our heart (mind) (Romans 10:10) and this comes about by hearing God’s word (Romans 10:17). Our life is to change. This happens when we repent (Luke 13:3,5) which is a turning from sin to God. Likewise, our relationship changes from being a sinner to a Christian. This happens when we are baptized for baptism puts us “into Christ” (Galatians 3:26-27).

WE MUST DO THE WILL OF THE FATHER. Jesus said, “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” (Mt. 7:21). The will of the Father, as we have shown, is to hear His word, believe, repent, confess, and be baptized. Upon the completion of these commands, the Lord will then add us to His church: “…And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” (Acts 2:47). Doing the will of the Father must become a way of life for the new born Christian. From Matthew 28:19-20 we learn after becoming a Christian, we must “continue to observe all things” that have been commanded.

    The same thing that makes us a Christian also adds us to the Lord’s church. Many denominations teach you must do one thing to be a Christian and something else to be a church member. However the Scriptures do not bear out such a distinction. Membership in the Lord’s church is not an option to being a Christian. You are either both or you are neither. You cannot be one or the other. According to the Scriptures, being a Christian and a member of the Lord’s church is inseparable. If the church you are a member of has one set of requirements for salvation and another for church membership, maybe you are in a denomination instead of the Lord’s church!  —E.R. Hall, Jr.

KEEPING OUR WORD AND PAYING OUR DEBTS

    The Bible is very strong on (1) keeping our promises and (2) paying our debts (Ecclesiastes 5:2, 4-5; Numbers 30:2; Romans 13:8; Ephesians 4:25; Colossians 3:9). We are not to go back on our word or fail to repay that which we have borrowed.

    We should strive to keep our word. A track record of broken promises or unkept commitments is a very bad track record.

    There is nothing sinful or shameful in borrowing money. It may be embarrassing to have to do so, but we can recover from that. If our folly or carelessness put us into a situation in which we had to borrow, we should work on that and endeavor not to repeat the mistake. But the mere step of borrowing money is not in itself either sinful or shameful. What is both sinful and shameful is a deliberate or careless failure to pay back what we have borrowed, and the world is full of people who have done and continue to do that. Many of them profess to be Christians. To use the words of James: “My brethren, these things ought not so to be” (James 3:10).  —Bill Crews

SENTENCE SERMONS

It's never too late to improve yourself.
 ***
The best tranquilizer is a clear conscience.
*** 
 It doesn't cost anything to be nice.
 ***
Being a success at the office is not worth it if it means being a failure at home.
*** 
If you stay focused on yourself, you are guaranteed to be miserable

"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. 6 / August 14, 2022

FATHERS, ARE YOU HOMESCHOOLING?

       On March 12, 1983, in a radio address to the nation, then President Ronald Reagan said "education begins at home". The scriptures clearly teach and support this statement. And contrary to what many parents In reality practice, the scriptures also command and teach that parents (especially fathers) are given the responsibility to "train up a child in the way that he should go" (Eph. 6:4, Col. 3:21, Prov. 22:6, Col. 3:21, Titus 2:4) 

    Contrary to all the scapegoating and the popular idea that teachers, coaches, religious leaders and baby sitters have a responsibility to help raise our children, God has actually given fathers the primary responsibility to raise their children and teach them the all-important things God would have them know. The scriptures both command and teach this 

1. Eph. 6:4 "And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.

1. Prov. 3:12 “For whom the Lord loves He corrects, Just as a father the son in whom he delights.”

1. Col. 3:21 "Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.”

1. Heb. 12:9 "Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live?”

1. Prov. 17:6 “Children's children are the crown of old men, And the glory of children Is their father.”

    I hasten to add that the above bible verses do not suggest that educators or others outside the nuclear family should not play a very limited role in our children's lives, they do. However, fathers (and mothers) must not shun or neglect their God given duty to raise their children properly and this beginsat home (Eph. 6:4, 1 Tim. 5: 14, Prov. 22:6). There are grave consequences of neglecting our children by allowing the children to basically raise themselves or by relying on society's institutions to, in effect, raise our children for us. There are many God inspired proverbs that speaks to this parental neglect:

1. Prov. 29:15 "The rod and rebuke give wisdom, But a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.”

2. Prov. 29:17 "Correct your son, and he will give you rest; Yes, he will give delight to your soul.”

3. Prov. 13:24 "He who spares his rod hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines him promptly.”

4. Prov. 1:8-9 "My son, hear the instruction of your father, And do not forsake the law of your mother; For they will be a graceful ornament on your head, And chains about your neck.”

    So, fathers (this applies to me also), are you meeting your God given responsibility to truly "homeschool" your children? Yours kids and society are counting on you! (Eph. 6:4, Col. 3:21, Heb. 12:7,9, Prov. 22:6) —Rodney Hampton

HOW DO WE PERCEIVE THE CHURCH?

    Many people think of the building when they hear the word "church''. Nowhere in the Bible is the word church used to describe a physical building. The building is the place where the church meets. Likewise, the nature and purpose of the church is misunderstood by many. Only the Scriptures can truthfully reveal the purpose which God has assigned the church to fulfill. As always, let us tum to God's divinely inspired word, respect and obey what it teaches, and honor the silence of the Scriptures. 

    Many perceive the church as another welfare agency primarily concerned with the care and relief of human suffering. To them the worth of the church is measured in the amount of money and relief given to others. Is this the primary purpose of the church? Upon examining the Scriptures, it is only the church's responsibility to see to the care of destitute saints (Christians) (Acts 4 :3 2-3 5; 6: 1-7; 11: 29; 2 Corinthians 9: 1, 12, 13). Individual Christians are to "do good unto all men" as they have the ability and opportunity. (Galatians 6: 10). 

    Many perceive the church as a purely social organization. Just mentioning the word "fellowship" causes most people to envision coffee and doughnuts or a potluck dinner. Thus many denominational churches have, as a part of their facility, kitchens and dining rooms in which to conduct this type of "fellowship". More and more the concept of the church is changing from a spiritual, worship atmosphere to a carnal, festival atmosphere. Does the church have a responsibility in providing these type things? 1 Corinthians 11 : 22, 34 teaches: "What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise ye not. And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation.” 

    Many perceive the church being devoted to the training and entertaining of young people. They justify this by saying it helps keep the young people out of trouble. The New Testament says nothing of this being the church's responsibility but it does teach that this duty belongs to parents. "Children, obey your parents in the Lord for this is right. Honor thy father and mother; ... And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord" (Ephesians 6: 1-4). 

    How do you perceive the church whenever the word is mentioned? Let the Scriptures guide you that you may perceive the truth on this subject and all other Bible subjects.  —E.R. Hall, Jr.

WRONG IS ALWAYS WRONG

Wrong is wrong, even if you don't get caught. The eyes of the Lord are in every place.

Wrong is wrong, even if you do it for a good cause. The end never justifies the means. The honorable purpose does not justify a dishonorable deed or action.

Wrong is wrong, even if it doesn't bother the conscience. The conscience can be trained or educated to accept wrong‑doing; even an honest sin or an evil done in sincerity is sinful in the sight of God. Whatsoever a man sows, that shall he also reap."

Wrong is wrong, even if it is commonly considered Acceptable. The bible says "Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil."

Wrong is always wrong despite our efforts to excuse our actions.

Remember, there is never a right way to do 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. V - No. 5 / July 31, 2022

INFLUENCING GENDER CONFUSION

       The New York Times reports: "About 1.6 million people in the United States are transgender, and 43 percent of them are young adults or teenagers, according to a report providing the most recent national estimates of this population.

    The analysis, relying on government health surveys conducted from 2017 to 2020, estimated that 1.4 percent of 13- to 17-year-olds and 1.3 percent of 18- to 24-years old were transgender, compared with about 0.5 percent of all adults.

    Those figures revealed a significant rise among younger people: The estimate of transgender people 13 to 25 nearly doubled since the researcher's previous report, published in 2017, though the reports used different methods.”

    Why is there a supposed increase in transgender people? Do you think the 24 hour a day news media celebrating gender confusion has anything to do with it? How about elementary schools and universities celebrating this movement across the country? The fact is, over the past 10 years, efforts have been beefed up to condition young children and teenagers to not only view gender confusion as normal, but as something to be desired! The current trend is to make sexual confusion a "cool" thing or an "in thing.”

    Now, some states have set aside June as "gay pride month." Most Americans do not approve of this lifestyle; yet our leaders insist on forcing this ideology on our children in classrooms, television, animated movies, and children's theme parks such as Disney.

    What is all of this celebrating anyway? It has been well said that the celebration of gay pride month is "perversity dressed up as diversity." Let that statement sink in a moment. Not all diversity is good and wholesome.

    One drag queen personality has admitted that the gay movement is no longer about equality; it is about recruiting younger people! It is not enough for these people to have gained their right to live together in a perverted fashion, but now they feel they must parade their lifestyle in front of children doing dances and reading story books dressed as drag queens! It is happening across the country. Get this, since 2018 the city of New York reportedly has spent $207,000 funding drag queens, men dressed up as harlot women, to read stories to kids in public schools! Did you know that one day in June is ‘take your child to a gay celebration’ day? I watched a video in which one man took his 7-year-old son to watch drag queens march back and forth parading in front of everyone. The boy was taken by the hand by one of the drag queens and walked back and forth in front of everyone. The child was then handed a $5 bill and instructed to insert it in the scantily dressed man's upper panty hose!

    God has never approved of these alternate lifestyles. "In the beginning God made them male and female" (Matthew 19:4). Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed for going after "strange flesh" (Jude 7). Men dressing in women's clothes and women dressing in men's clothes is a practice that made men and women an abomination to God (Deuteronomy 22:5). In the Christian age, long hair belongs on a woman (1 Corinthians 11:14-15)! In Romans chapter 1 it tells us that men with men and women with women in sexual relationships is "against nature." Homosexuals and effeminate men “shall not inherit the kingdom of God” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10). Is this too difficult to understand?

    Did you know there may be some who read this article who will say that I'm being unloving talking about these things? The unloving objection is thrown out like the race card which is thrown whenever someone disagrees with what is being taught. The god of this world, Satan, is blinding the eyes of many, including some who profess to be Christians; yet refuse to see the evil around them (2 Corinthians 4:4).

    If it were 30 or 40 years ago, pulpits across the country would light up echoing the message in the article. Today, preachers fall under fire if they start really condemning sin and pointing out the offenders. It is a sad day when entertaining lessons with pretty pictures all presented in a conversational preaching tone is almost all you hear from most pulpits. We need to address problems! We need to point out the offenders! Jesus, Himself, called the scribes and Pharisees “vipers”! I guess someone would accuse Jesus of being unloving, right? (Matthew 23:14). Everyone needs to ask themselves just whose side they are on today. The fact is if our views line up more with our society than with God's, then we are on the wrong side.

    Lastly, if parents don't use this window of opportunity, that is quickly drawing closed, to train up their young children in the way they should go, you can be sure the social media, movies, some schools, and political pressure will point your children in the way they should not go! (Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4). Our society is influencing our children and grandchildren to be gender confused. If we just ignore it, perversion will steal the hearts of our children. —Michael R. Baggett

JOHN 3:16

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

    This verse is sometimes called the “Golden Text” like Matthew 7:12 is sometimes called the “Golden Rule”. John 3:16 is often used to prove salvation is by ‘faith only’. Does this verse tell all that is necessary to be saved? Does it teach ‘faith only’?

    The words ‘faith only’ are obviously not stated in the passage. In fact, the doctrine of ‘faith only’ began with a man named Martin Luther who lived in the 16 century. He inserted the word ‘solo’ (alone) after the word “faith” and went on to say the book of James was uninspired. HIs reason for this declaration was because James taught “by works a man is justified, and not by faith only” (James 2:24).

    The word “believeth” in John 3:16 is a ‘comprehensive’ word. By this we mean it is a word that takes everything into account that pertains to salvation. The word “gave” is another word like “believeth” in John 3:16. “Gave” does not specifically tell about the birth, life, death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of Christ and yet this is how God “gave His only begotten Son”.

    Thus, “believeth” includes faith, repentance, confession, and baptism. In Acts 16:30-34 we read of the conversion of the jailer who was told to “believe”. Yet, he still needed to HEAR the word of the Lord. By washing their stripes, he indicated his REPENTANCE and verse 33 tells us he was BAPTIZED. Upon completion of these things, verse 34 tells us he “rejoiced, believing in God with all his house”.

     Have you done what the jailer and all others in the book of Acts did to become “believers”? If not, your “faith only” will not save you.  —E.R. Hall, Jr.

SENTENCE SERMONS

He who is too busy to pray is far busier than God ever intended him to be.
 ***
Money is not required to buy even one necessity of the soul.
***
Worthwhile things require time, patience, and hard work.

"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