The Obituary God Wrote…April 5th

At the death of a loved one we gather together and listen to an obituary. A story, a short re-account of the birth, life and death of the one who has passed. There have even been times when the one who has died is able to write his own obituary, but more often than not, a family member pens the words to commemorate the loss. But if you were at a funeral, and God were to write the obituary, what do you think He say?

In actuality, God has written an obituary. The story, the obituary, begins in the early pages of the book of Genesis as God introduces the birth of ‘Death’ as man falls from grace in the garden. Separating mankind from God, spiritual death grows, matures and continues to dominates the life of all men. But as Christ comes into the world, spiritual death is put to death (Romans 6:9), and it’s then when we can better understand the obituary as spiritual death is conquered. “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death is your sting?” (I Corinthians 15:55) Join us Sunday morning as we look at the obituary God wrote…

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, April 5, 2015

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Our God, He Is Alive” – 23

God is not dead! The title of a popular Christian movie this past year is the basis for our opening song this morning. “There is beyond the azure blue, a God concealed from human sight. He tinted skies with heavenly hue and framed the worlds with His great might. There is a God, He is alive…” He is risen and death has been conquered…Amen!

“Here I Am to Worship” – no book

A ‘contemporary hymn’ for this morning, but one that exemplifies our purpose today. We don’t come because we have to. And we don’t come to worship because we’ve ‘nothing better to do.’ We come…to worship! We come to bow down and to say publicly, “Jehovah is our God!”

“It Is Finished” – 369

Written by William & Gloria Gaithers, this song of resurrection is a strong depiction of the end of Christ’s life as He puts to defeats spiritual death. The battle between heaven and hell is clearly described in verses two and three; “On one side march the forces of evil, all the demons and devils of hell. On the other the angels of glory, and they meet on Golgotha’s hill. The earth shakes with the force of the conflict, and the sun refuses to shine. For there hangs God’s Son in the balance, and then thru the darkness He cries. ‘It is finished!’ “ As Jesus breaths His last, death glories in a hollow victory, only to see Jesus resurrection three days later. Certainly there is a double meaning in Christ’s last words…It IS finished!

“The Old Rugged Cross” – 313

What do you cherish in this life? Is there something you love and hold in the highest regard? More than 100 years ago, George Bennard wrote the words to this old spiritual song directing the reader to the cross of Christ. His words of encouragement were for us to cling to the cross of Christ as our hope for eternal salvation. Why? “For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above to bear it to dark Calvary!”

“A New Creature” – 619

Are you a ‘new creature?’ Have you been ‘buried with Christ?’ The song before our lesson will remind us that in Him, we no longer live for ourselves but for our God. You and I are ‘dead to the world to voices that call me…’ We are ‘living a new, obedient but free’ life. As a baptized believer I am, ‘dead to the joys that once did enthrall (hold spellbound) me, yet it is not me (I), but Christ that lives in me.”

“Only a Step” – 940

At our invitation we’ll sing, “Hear the sweet voice of Jesus say, “Come unto Me, I am the way.” What does it take to come to Him? How do I start this walk with Christ? Like a child, we begin with the first step. To come we need only to take a step in the right direction. “Come, for He loves you so” much!

“He Lives” – 346

Walking out of services this morning my hope is for you to have this tune on your heart. “He lives! He lives! Christ Jesus lives today. He walks with me, He talks with me along life’s narrow way. He lives, He lives! Salvation to impart! You ask me how I know He lives, He lives within my heart.”

1, January 22, 20151, January 22, 2015

Preaching-Before, During and After…Jan. 25th

The scripture, through Paul’s inspired pen, gives this firm proclamation, “I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with great patience and instruction.” (II Timothy 4: 1, 2) Preach the word! We’ve known this command and for years many of us have listened to the preacher ‘preach the word.’ But from the audience’s point of view, as ‘spectators,’ what goes into ‘preaching?’

This coming Sunday morning Christians across our nation (the globe actually) will attend worship services to hear the gospel preached. They will walk into the auditorium, find their seat, and worship together. But what will happen after the preaching? How will each member sitting in the crowd react to the message? Some, undoubtedly will listen intently, then walk out unaffected by the message. Others, content with their presence, will sit quietly, and not listen to the message at all. And still others will hear the message and be moved to respond. But what about those who listen to the message, are moved to respond, but never do. Their hearts have been pricked, like those in Acts 2, but the step forward never comes. They have done everything necessary before and during the preaching but the final step. What comes after the preaching is left in the pew. Join us Sunday morning as we consider preaching…before, during and after!

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, January 25, 2015

You’ll notice the following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Our God, He Is Alive” – 23

Remember when this was found on page 728B? Few may still have this song book, but most of us will never forget this ‘church of Christ Anthem.’ The men lead the chorus as we proclaim, “There is a God, He is alive, in Him we live and we survive…”

“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” – 315

Taking this old spiritual song/hymn from Isaac Watts, we sing the poetry of Christ’s death. When I survey the cross, I see His head, His hands and His feet. One of the ‘lost’ verses we’ll be singing on Sunday includes these words; “His dying crimson, like a robe, spreads o’er His body on the tree. Then am I dead to all the globe, and all the globe is dead to me.” This morning we’ll sing verse 1-3 before the bread, verse 4 before the fruit of the vine and verse 5 before the contribution. Notice the message with each verse and you’ll see how well they fit together.

“Christ Above Me” – no book

During the passing of the collection plate we’ll sing this new, contemporary song about the all encompassing role Christ plays in our life. “Christ above me, Christ beside me, Christ within me, ever guiding. Christ behind me (not subordinate but rather supportive), Christ before, Christ my love, my life, my Lord.”

“Sing to Me of Heaven” – 716

Our song before the lesson is one that dates back 100 years. But the timeless message of this spiritual song calls us to encourage one another with songs of heaven. Notice each verse is a reminder of how and when we sing of heaven. How, “…tenderly and low, till the shadows over me rise and swiftly go…” And when, “…as I walk alone, dreaming of the comrades (a fellow soldier of Christ who has gone on to his reward) that so long have gone.” These songs of heaven are ‘songs of peace’ that will release us from the toils (a net to trap something) that bind us. Let’s sing of heaven!

“Almost Persuaded” – no book

Our invitation song is one we don’t sing often, but some find it’s basis in Acts 26 when Paul asked, “King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do.” Reading verse 28 in the King James Version we find our theme for this morning’s lesson, “Almost persuaded, now to believe. Almost persuaded, Christ to receive…” . Robert’s ‘preaching’ this morning will include a before, during and after. What are you doing before he preaches, while (during) he’s preaching and after he preaches? When the invitation is offered, will you almost be persuaded?

“Let Me Live Close to Thee” – 831

This is one of my favorite proclamations of how I want to live my life! Perhaps it’s the second verse that strikes me so clearly as we consider it’s correlation to Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men…” Notice the words from verse 2; “Not the crown nor renown that the world might see, I would work, never shirk, blessed Lord, for Thee. But to know where I go that my soul is free, let me live close to Thee each day.”

1, December 5, 20141, December 5, 2014

You Can’t Fool Me…Dec. 7th

Perhaps you’ve heard the saying; “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.” Where it originated isn’t known, but the sentiment is clear, ‘I might be tricked once, but it won’t happen again.’ At the same time there are those who say, ‘You can’t fool me…I know better.’ But some believe a truth not knowing they’ve been fooled. What kind of scoundrel would play such a dirty trick? No wonder we say, “…shame on you.”

But could we be guilty of fooling others as well as fooling ourselves? We look in the mirror and see what we want to see, not what is really there. We talk ourselves into something that’s not. Could it be that we tell ourselves “I’m OK,” when deep down we know we’re not? Are we doing the very thing we consider a ‘dirty trick?’ This Sunday morning might be a good time to consider your stance if you’re one to say, “You Can’t Fool Me!”

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, December 7, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Living By Faith” – 560

Written almost 100 years ago, this spiritual song reiterates the message found in Hebrews chapter 11, “All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance…” (NIV) In our own Christian walk, how are we doing? Do we live by faith, or do we want substantiated confirmation? And yet that’s exactly how the Hebrew writer began this chapter, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Concerned about being fooled? God will never fail us, never deceive us and never fool us. Therefore we can say, “I care not today what the morrow may bring, if shadow or sunshine or rain. (why…because) The Lord I know ruleth over everything, and all of my worry is vain. I’m Living by faith in Jesus above…”

“Sweet Hour of Prayer” – 827

How do you deal with ‘seasons of distress and grief?’ Do you have a burning desire for Christ to return? Do you ‘hasten’ to God in prayer? W. W. Walford wrote about the power of prayer, and this morning we’ll sing about it. What a great escape from the ‘tempter’s snare,’ and those who believe in Him will ‘cast on Him their every care, and wait for Him…sweet hour of prayer.’ How foolish would we be to reject this hour of prayer.

“A Hill Called Mount Calvary” – 373

This song is new to some, but it has been around for almost 50 years. Made famous by the Gaither family, the message is one we should believe in. Some might say you are being fooled if you believe in a resurrection. And though I might be fooled by a lot of things, there is one thing I know and I believe with all my heart. “I believe in a hill called Mount Calvary. I’ll believe whatever the cost; and when time has surrender and earth is no more, I’ll still cling to the old rugged cross.” The video begins with the 3rd verse…you’ll want to listen to this one!

“Father, I Adore You” – 53

A simple hymn that is sung to our God and Father. As we sing, notice the unified message. “Father, we adore You, lay our lives before You, How we love You.” It’s easy to sing as a group, but will you, can you, sing it in the first person? “Father, I adore You, lay my life before You, How I love You!”

“Open Our Eyes, Lord” – 766

While the collection plate is being passed we’ll ask our Father for a blessing. In this simple hymn we sing, “Open our eyes, Lord we want to see Jesus, to reach out and touch Him, and say that we love Him. Open our ears, Lord and help us to listen…” Don’t be fooled into thinking God isn’t involved in your life. He’s alive and well and listening to your pleas!

“He Leadeth Me” – 410

If you’re concerned about being fooled, your best bet is to take a look at who is leading you. What are they telling you and where are they going? For that matter…what are you telling yourself? Before Sunday morning’s lesson we’ll sing about the One who leads us, it is ‘God’s hand that leadeth me.’ But before you think that’s all there is to it, finish the chorus. “His faithful follower I would be…” He’ll never fool you if you’ll follow Him. Unconditional-Surrender-Maxwell-JM
“All to Jesus I Surrender” – 662

Question; how much is all? We sing a beautiful song of surrender, but will you give up everything for Him? Think about what you’ll be singing, “All to Jesus I surrender, all to Him I freely give. I will ever love and trust Him in His presence daily live…” If we sing all three verses and the chorus with each verse, you’ll be saying “ALL” seventeen times (23 if you count the echo). Will do, do you, surrender your all to Him…or are you just fooling yourself into thinking you do?

“A Common Love” – 705

This ‘youth song’ is taken from the book of John as Jesus spoke to His disciples, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another…” Take note of the emphasis in this spiritual song, “A common love…a common gift…a common bond…a common strength…a common hope…a common joy.” Don’t be deceived, without the truth of God’s Word, we’ll never begin to find strength or hope in this sinful world.

1, October 11, 20141, October 11, 2014

Life on the Battlefield…Oct. 12th

A soldier’s job is defined by struggle. When conflicts arise, these men and women put to practice all their training. A soldier, by definition, fights. Even in peace time, he is preparing himself for the inevitable battle. But what causes some in the heat of the battle to fight and die on the battlefield, while others will literally drop their weapons, strip off their uniform and run? Why do some stand with their fellow soldiers, supporting each other, while others don’t?

Understanding God’s word, the Christian realizes there is a daily struggle (Ephesians 5:10-17) in this life. We are in a battle against the wrong for the right. But the question remains, will we stay loyal or turn and run when the fight becomes fierce? Will we stand for what is right or crumble without a fight? Reader, know this…without a moral compass, without a ‘standard operating procedure,’ you will be left to guess and hope. Millions are trying to manage life, on their own. And yet Christians know the adversary is ‘on the prowl’ (I Peter 5), and without God’s word, we are ill-prepared. Rest assured, the devil, our adversary, is not waiting for us to step into battle, for this life is a battle. To be clear, we’re living life on the battlefield!

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, Oct. 12, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Doxology” – 66

Opening our worship this morning we’ll sing a basic hymn from years gone by. “Praise God from whom all blessings flow…” Before we even think about fighting the battles in life, we must draw strength from the One who gives us hope for our battles. Let’s praise the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

“The Glory-Land Way” – 535

Keeping the same key signature (musically), we’ll transition to another old favorite that echos the journey we’ve all chosen to take. A journey home to glory. Encouraging each other will give us added support for our individual battles. When we hear our family singing, “…heaven is nearer, and the way groweth (grows) clearer…” we find strength to keep on fighting for the goal.

“In Loving-Kindness Jesus Came” – 504

Focus on the third verse of this song as we consider our purpose in life on the battlefield, ‘”His brow was pierced with many a thorn, His hands by cruel nails were torn. When from my guilt and grief forlorn, in love He lifted me…” We are in battle, and there will be days we feel like we’re losing. After all, Christ was abused, beaten, mocked, disdained and killed on the cross. But never forget that He conquered death in His resurrection! So what does that mean me? In our daily battles, standing up for what is right and living with Christ as our guide..we have already won!

“Spirit of the Living God” – 422

A short, contemporary hymn that has a very interesting progression for the Christian. If we are to be the soldiers God calls us to be, there is a process we should consider. To be useful in battle we need to be melted down, and molded into what He wants us to be. Then we must be filled with His word and used for His glory. We sing, “Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me…melt me, mold me, fill me, use me…” A soldier fights for His commander and chief. We must answer the question, on the battlefields of life, who do we fight for?

“Christ Above Me” – no book

This hymn will likely be new to most, but the message is one we must learn and hold dear in our hearts. As a soldier of God, how do we visualize Christ in our life? Is He a Kevlar vest we put on for battle? Is His word a sword we pick up when we ‘go into a fight?’ Sing this song and follow the words as we recall how Christ is more than just part of our life…He IS our life. “Christ above me, Christ beside me, Christ within me ever guiding. Christ behind me, Christ before. Christ my love, my life, my Lord!”

“Faith is the Victory” – 469

Where are we ‘camping’ in this life? Is it on the battlefield, or do we prefer the ‘hills of light’ where there is peace and comfort. This old hymn, which you’ve sung for years, is a reminder that there is a war being fought for the soul of mankind. An obscure verse, which we’ll sing on Sunday, reminds us of the battle and how we should prepare for it. “On every hand the foe we find drawn up in dread array (they can look pretty intimidating), let tents of ease be left behind and onward to the fray (the battle). Salvation’s helmet on each head, and truth all girt about (Ephesians 5), the earth shall tremble ‘neath our tread, and echo with our shout…Faith is the victory!”

“I Am Resolved” – 948

Our invitation is a confirmation of our resolve in this battle, I’ll never quit! However, though most of us will sing that resolve, many will lay their weapons down when the fighting gets fierce. To stay faithful to Him, we have to remember what we sing in the chorus, “I will hasten (hurry) to Him.”

“To Christ Be True” – 736

What better way to finish off a lesson on life in the battlefield than to sing of our faithfulness to the battle. Soldiers must demonstrate loyalty in times of peace as well as times of battle. Just remember, “…To Christ, the Lord, be true and He will go with you. And help you through all your conflicts, to Christ the Lord be true!”

1, October 3, 20141, October 3, 2014

The Antioch Experience…Oct. 5th

A great leader in the church has been viciously ‘attacked’ and killed for preaching the gospel of Christ. With his death comes a violent persecution of the church and a sub-sequential fleeing of God’s people. In this ‘disbursement’, a congregation began meeting (and growing) in a large Syrian town known as Antioch. An interesting statement is made in the 20th verse of Acts chapter 11 regarding this growth, “But there were some…men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who came to Antioch and began speaking to the Greeks also, preaching the Lord Jesus…and a large number who believed turned to the Lord.” Consider for a time who these men where and how far they came? We might call them ‘missionaries,’ but the distance they traveled is remarkable.

From Cyprus to Antioch is less than 100 miles and that mostly crossing the Great Sea (Mediterranean Sea). But to travel from Cyrene to Antioch you’ll need to plan for a trip of more than 800 miles. Even by today’s standard that is quite a distance. So why Antioch? What was so important that ‘some men’ traversed the peril of the sea and long days ‘on the road’ to spread the word of God? Join us Sunday morning as Robert Taylor, one of our associate ministers, shares with us, “the Antioch Experience.”

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, October 5, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Come, Thou Almighty King” – 19

We sing this song (hymn) as a prayer to God. Notice the ‘prayer’ you’ll be singing Sunday morning; “Come, Thou almighty King, help us Thy name to sing, help us to praise! Father all glorious, over all victorious, come and reign over us, Ancient of Days.” But I’m amazed at the words we sing (have sung for years) in the next verse. “Come, Thou Incarnate Word (Christ), gird on Thy mighty sword, our prayer attend (pay attention to)! Come, and Thy people bless, and give Thy word success: Spirit of holiness, on us descend!” If we sing with understanding we’ll know the power of this prayer.

“Great Are You Lord” – no book

Do you proclaim the holiness of God in your life? We sing freely that our God is Holy, and we recognize Him as being Great, but what does that look like in your daily walk? This morning we’ll sing, “…worthy of praise. Holy and true, Great are You Lord, most Holy Lord!” But each day live so that the world will see us and say, “Holy Lord, most holy Lord, You alone are worthy of my praise…”

“How Deep the Father’s Love” – no book

Daily our minds should reflect on the gospel; the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. And each first day of the week we pause to memorialize Jesus in taking the Lord’s Supper. This spiritual song captures the essence of His sacrifice for us. If you truly consider what happened on the cross, you’ll better understand this song; “How deep the Father’s love for us, how vast beyond all measure…” As we sing, we encourage each other to take a look at the cross and ‘behold the man…, (and) my sin upon His shoulders.’ Can you hear the crowd shouting and the mocking voices? Personalize it as you sing, ‘…ashamed, I hear my mocking voice cry out among the scoffers…’

“Ten Thousand Angels” – 349

Following Christ’s memorial, we sing an old spiritual song that references (in part) scripture. But was it 10,000 angels that our Lord could have called? Actually, a literal look at the text (Matthew 26) and a historical application, it’s closer to say, “He could have called 72,000 angels.” Matthew records Christ’s exact words, “…do you think that I cannot appeal to My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than 12 legions of angels?” By all historical accounts, a legion of soldiers numbered 6,000. So perhaps we should sing…“He could have called seventy-two thousand angels…either way, He died alone for you and me.”

“Have Thine Own Way Lord” – 552

This hymn/prayer is a call for God to take hold of our lives. But is it even an option? Isn’t God always in control? Even the first verse reference scripture as we sing the words of Isaiah, “Thou art the Potter, I am the clay…” Still, God has given us the status of free agents. We can choose to go or stay. We can either do His will or go it alone. Thus we sing, ‘…hold over my being (keep before me/my very life) absolute sway (complete and sovereign power).’

“True-Hearted, Whole-Hearted” – 629

Before the lesson we sing of our faithfulness to spread the message of salvation. So, will we be true-hearted to Him? Will our lives whole-heartedly be serving Him? If so we will certainly ‘peal out the watch word.’ But what is the ‘watch word?’ By definition, this a phrase used my members of the same group. Christians, perhaps our ‘watchword’ is Matthew 28:19, 20. Or maybe it’s Acts 2:38? Both are a call to be whole-heartedly living and serving Him?

“There is Power in the Blood” – 903

When we better understand the Antioch experience, we’ll share the power of salvation with those we meet. Whether across the street or across the global, the world needs to know about His wonder working power that is found in blood of the Lamb. Let’s be better about telling the world how they can be free from the burden of sin!

“I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” – 509

“I will sing the wondrous story of the Christ Who died for me. How He left His home in glory for the cross of Calvary…” If you can’t sing the wondrous story, you’ll ever be able to tell it. Nor will you ever travel hundreds of miles to tell others of His saving grace. So have you been to ‘Antioch?’ Not the one in Syria, but the one here at home. Take them the message of Christ!

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Bible Study Flashbacks…July 13th

“A memory revisited” is one of the definitions given for a flashback. And most likely you’ve experienced such an event. Remembering something back in time, a flashback to the past. But what kinds of ‘flashbacks’ do I have with Bible study? Are there examples of such things found within scripture?

Look no further than Luke chapter 1, as ‘the angel’ spoke to Zacharias about his soon to be born son; “…you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth….and he will turn many of the sons of Israel back to the Lord their God. It is he who will go as a forerunner before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers back to the children,’ (Malachi 4:6) and the disobedient to the attitude of righteousness, so as to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” A flashback in Bible study to be sure, but join us Sunday as we consider more…

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, July 13, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“O Worship the King” – 144

Joining together we’ll sing; “O worship the King, all glorious above, and gratefully sing His wonderful love…” But take a moment to consider the words of the second verse; “Thy bountiful care, what tongue can recite? It (His bountiful care) breathes in the air, it shines in the light; It (His care) streams from the hills, it descends to the plain, and sweetly distills in the dew and the rain.” God’s abundant care is every where! It’s in the air we breath and the sun that shines, the rain that falls and even in the early morning dew. Before you sing this song, remember He is your King; but He is also your Maker, Defender, Redeemer and Friend.

“Worthy Art Thou” – 230

Another hymn we sing to Him as we lift up the voice in praise and devotion… “Worthy art Thou!” Will you come before Him with singing?

“O Sacred Head” – 318

The words and music of this classic old hymn date back to the mid-1600’s. But for a moment, look at these words from a different angle; “…Now scornfully surrounded with thorns, Thine only crown; How art Thou pale with anguish, with sore abuse and scorn…” The word ‘pale’ can mean ‘light in color,’ and may very well mean that here. But perhaps the author chose an alternate meaning to the word pale, ‘to be enclosed or surrounded.’ Like the crown of thorns on His head, isn’t it clear that He was encircled by anguish, abuse and scorn?

“The Lord is in His Holy Temple” – 108

A simple message and a song you’ve sung countless times before, and we find it’s basis in the book of Habakkuk. The context of the passage enlightens us to understand that man-made gods, idols of wood and stone, are unable to rise up, speak out or communicate with people. They are silent. But people of the world are to be silent before the Living God. Read Habakkuk 2:18-20 and see the inspiration for this old ‘psalm.’ Gordon's Calvary

“He Paid a Debt” – 376

A contemporary song, written in the mid-1970’s, serves us well as we conclude the Lord’s Supper…‘He paid that debt at Calvary (Latin for ‘the Skull’), He cleansed my soul and set me free…!’ This picture, taken in the mid-1930’s, shows a hill outside Jerusalem that may very well have been ‘the Skull.’

“Faith of Our Fathers” – 754

Singing this spiritual song isn’t a praise to our heritage. We don’t sing to honor our forefathers, but we sing of the living faith of those who have gone before. Faithful men who stood for Christ and His church. Men who were thrown in dungeons, suffered death by the sword, and died in the flame. Men chained in prisons, but free in Christ. In the chorus we sing, “…we will be true to Thee (God) till death!” But will we, in spite of our trials, still remain faithful? “How sweet would be their children’s fate, if they (us), like them (our fore fathers), could die for Thee (our God)!”

“Ancient Words” – no book

‘Ancient words, ever true, changing me and changing you!’ Perhaps the next line of this contemporary song is the challenge for you and I today. Can we honestly sing what comes next? Have you come with an open heart? Are you ready for the word of God to be imparted to you? If so, when this lesson is concluded and ‘He gently knocks,’ will you be ready to keep the door open for Him. What a blessing that these “Holy words” have been long preserved so we can see and experience first hand…a Bible Study Flashback.

“Behold a Stranger at the Door” – 919

Considering your response to the lesson, does Jesus live in you or is He still outside your heart (your life)? Christ’s own words in Revelation 3:20 serve as the foundation for this invitation song, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.” We sing knowing that He doesn’t demand that we open the door, nor does He beg for our affection. Jesus ‘gently knocks and has waited long’ for those who hear the gospel to open the door of their heart and let Him in!

“A Mansion, Robe and Crown” – no book

“I’m gonna trade my earthly home for a better one bright and fair. Christ left to prepare a mansion for His children in the air…” One of our contemporary songs that references the promise made by Jesus in John chapter 14. Don’t let the newness of this hymn discourage you from finding the joy in a promise of eternal life with our Heavenly Father.

1, July 3, 20141, July 3, 2014

The Mystery of Forgiveness…July 6th

According to the scriptures, if someone sins against me I should forgive him 490 times! At least as a kid that’s what I thought when I read the words of Jesus in Matthew chapter 18. Peter asked Him, “…how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times? But Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but up to seventy times seven (70×7=490).”

Maybe we need to consider our motivation when it comes to forgiveness. In the Bible we recognize the number 7 as a ‘perfect’ number, so is Jesus trying to say perfection is found in forgiveness? Join us Sunday morning as we consider, “the Mystery of Forgiveness.”

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, July 6, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Let God Arise” – 471

Taken from the words of King David (Psalm 68), we sing the text; “Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered, and let those who hate Him flee before Him.” Our God is mighty to save and this song is a great way to sing that reminder of His power and strength. Interestingly enough our second verse, “Our God arose and His enemies were scattered…” gets it’s basis from the 76th Psalm, “…the earth feared and was still when God arose to judgment…”

“Faith is the Victory” – 469

One of my favorite spiritual songs that is more of a call to battle then we might think. Notice verse one; “…ye Christian soldiers, rise, and press the battle…against the foe…let all our strength be hurled…” And then verse two; “…our sword the Word of God…” Verse three; “To him that overcomes the foe…we’ll vanquish all the host of night…” But this extra, less known verse; “On every hand the foe we find drawn up in dread array. Let tents of ease be left behind and onward to the fray. Salvation’s helmet on each head with truth all girt about, the earth shall tremble ‘neath our tread and echo with our shout…Faith is the Victory!” God’s people realize this is a battle against the forces of darkness. So the question comes, are you ready and willing to fight?

“If I Have Wounded Any Soul Today” – no book

This old hymn (it is indeed a prayer) dates back to the turn of the century and fits well with our lesson this morning, ‘forgiveness.’ How often do we live each day in ‘our own willful way’ not concerned about the needs of others. Perhaps the third verse strikes me the hardest; “If I have been perverse, or hard or cold, if I have longed for shelter in Thy fold, when Thou hast given me some fort to hold, Dear Lord, forgive.” It’s not just intentional sins that we need to seek His forgiveness, but also the thoughtless, careless sin in our lives.

“In Loving-Kindness” – 504

The second verse of this song captures our thoughts for the Lord’s Supper; “His brow was pierced with many a thorn, His hands by cruel nails were torn, when from my guilt and grief, forlorn (my feeling of desperation), in love He lifted me…” Let’s take this opportunity as we remember His sacrifice. Singing this verse, we will do just that.

“Nearer, My God to Thee” – 684

(The first video is a traditional arrangement, the second is from Vocal Point, both are great!) Sung between the Lord’s Supper and the Contribution, this hymn/psalm retells the story of Jacob as he flees from the wrath of his brother Esau. Using a pillow for a stone (Genesis 28:11) and dreaming of ‘a ladder reaching to heaven,’ we translate that Old Testament account to present day. (Verse two; “Tho like a wanderer, the sun gone down, darkness be over me, my rest a stone; Yet in my dreams I’d be nearer my God, to Thee…”

“Did You Think to Pray?” – 848

‘Before you left your room this morning, ‘Did you think to pray?’ It’s a simple question…As you started the morning, was God included in your waking hours? Drawing from the third verse we’ll bear in mind our theme for this morning’s lesson; “When your heart is filled with anger, did you think to pray? Did you plead for grace, my brother, that you might forgive another who has crossed your way?” Prayer…don’t leave home without it!

“Jesus Is Coming Soon” – 712

In the quiet morning hours of December 7th, 1941 thousands of lives were shattered as Pearl Harbor was bombed, and America stood at the threshold of war. It’s no wonder that within a matter of months R.E. Winsett penned the words, “Troublesome times are here, filling men’s hearts with fear, freedom we all hold dear now is at stake…” Christians, we must ‘awake,’ stand against the spiritual onslaught of the devil and humble our hearts to God. Why…because Jesus has said, “Behold! I am coming quickly…” (Revelation 22:12)

“I Need Thee Every Hour” – 837

Not your typical invitation song, but one that we must use to come to understand how helpless we are with out God. In life we strive to prove that we are self-sufficient, ‘I don’t need anything.’ Or do we? As we sing the third verse we proclaim, ‘come quickly and abide, or life is vain…‘ We do need Him if we are to make it through life, but the questions is…are we willing to go to the Savior? “O bless me now, my Savior; I come to Thee!”

“Sing to Me of Heaven” – 716

This popular spiritual song, written 100 years ago, is a call for Christians to encourage one another with the promise of heaven. As we forgive one another, we share a commonality with our Savior. “Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32). Singing to each other about heaven will help lift the ‘burdens…that are pressing so…‘. The mystery of forgiveness is great, and reflects the glory of our Father in heaven.

1, May 15, 20141, May 15, 2014

Would You Choose to be Hated?…May 18th

If you had the choice of walking down the road where everyone loved and admired you, or walking the path of rejection and hatred…which road would you choose? Some say that’s easy, of course I’ll take the more pleasant path. Love and respect always trumps rejection, doesn’t it? Why would anyone want to be hated?

Paul tells the church in Corinth to consider their ‘calling’ (I Cor. 1:26), that they might not be wise according to the world, because God has chosen the foolish things to shame the wise. He continues reminding us that God chooses the weak to shame the strong. But notice Paul’s admonition in verse 28, “and the base (lowest) things of the world and the despised (hated) God has chosen…” So maybe we should ask ourselves, would you choose to be hated?

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, May 18, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“To Christ Be Loyal and Be True” – 736

Opening with a song of admonition we encourage each other to be faithful in our walk with Christ. To be noble in our service. Together we strive to be true to our Lord; to Christ, the Lord, be true…why? We sing the answer in the chorus; “…for He will go with you and help you through your conflicts…”

“A Hill Called Mount Calvary” – 373

How do you handle things that don’t seem to make sense in this life? Reject them and go on, search for truth and understanding, or believe? “There are things as we travel this earth’s shifting sands that transcend all the reason of man; but the things that matter the most in this world, they can never be held in our hand. I believe in a hill called Mount Calvary…” When it comes to the cross of Christ…what do you believe?

“The Old Rugged Cross” – 313

Following the thought between this song and the one we’ll sing just before it; “…and when time has surrendered and earth is no more, I’ll still cling to the old rugged cross.” “…so I’ll cherish the old rugged cross, till my trophies at last I lay down.” Putting our mind on our Savior’s death, burial and resurrection you can’t help but think of the cross.

“Does Jesus Care” – 507

A song title with a question many have asked through the centuries. With so much pain and sorrow; with troubles and sickness and war and death…does God see our suffering? Does Jesus care? We look no further then the chorus of this spiritual song written in 1901, “O yes, He cares, I know He cares…”

“Follow Me” – 395

What will it take to follow our Savior? Jesus said to His disciples in Matthew 16, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.” We receive that same admonition and sing the same sentiment; “…Be faithful, weary pilgrim, the morning I can see, Just lift your cross and follow close to Me.”

“What Shall It Be?” – 944

We all have a choice; to accept God’s will and give our lives completely to Him, or not. It’s really pretty simple. So the answer comes clearly to you and me…”What Shall It Be?” What is your decision, not just today, but for the rest of your life; what will you do with Jesus?

“God Bless You, Go with God” – 752

No song gives me more edification, it seems, than this assurance that brothers and sisters are singing “…in spite of all the lies that some may hurl, Christ is the only hope of all the world; God bless you, go with God.’ That should be our daily prayer for each other.

1, May 2, 20141, May 2, 2014

Die Empty…May 4th

What a helpless feeling as your car sputters to a stop, leaving you to look down and see the gas gauge on EMPTY. With nothing left, your gas tank is dried up. It’s one thing to accidentally ‘run out of gas,’ but it is something entirely different to purposely drain your tank. So the question is, who would do such a thing? Why would you empty your tank? Could this be something we aspire for…to die on empty?

Robert Taylor, associate minister with Waterview church of Christ, will bring our Sunday morning lesson. Let’s join him as we look at Christ’s life (and death) to see if we can understand why Jesus, would ’empty Himself.’ Philippians 2:5-8

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.”
I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, May 4, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“I Stand in Awe” 96

“You are beautiful beyond description. Too marvelous for words. Too wonderful for comprehension, like nothing ever seen or heard. Who can grasp Your infinite wisdom, who can fathom the depth of Your love? You are beautiful beyond description, majesty enthroned above…And I stand in awe of You!” A beautiful, contemporary song (hymn) of praise. But I encourage you to do more than physically stand in awe of Him. In your life live so that others know He is awesome in power and might. Live so that nothing else compares to His majesty. Sing this song to God, but honor Him with your life.

“I Am Thine, O Lord” – 666

This hymn (we sing to the Lord) is one that dates back to 1875 as Fanny J. Crosby penned these timeless words. Notice the last phrase in the second verse; “…Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, and my will be lost in Thine.” How blessed would we be if our will was one with God’s will? The Christian knows it should be, but is it? Let Him ‘draw you nearer’ to His precious bleeding side…

“Beneath the Cross of Jesus” – 314

As we prepare our minds for this moment of remembering the Lord’s death, burial and resurrection let’s poetically (and gladly) take our stand beneath His cross. Notice the third verse, ‘Upon that cross of Jesus mine eye at times can see the very dying form of One who suffered there for me…’ As you look upon the cross, through tears of the heart, realize His death was for you. Now, will you confess His glorious love, and your own worthlessness? You can see more clearly from beneath the cross of Jesus.

“I Gave My Life for Thee” – 354

As we give back during the time of collection let’s sing about how He gave to us first. Each verse focuses on what Christ did for us. He gave His life; He left heaven’s glory; He suffered agony and He brings us the free gift of eternal life. What have you given for the cause of Christ? What have you abandoned to follow Him? Do you suffer for His name? Will you bring any gift to Christ? Just remember…He gave His life for thee!

“Poured Out Like Wine” – 655

Paul wrote to the church in Philippi and said, “…even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.” Philippians 2:17 This gives us the basis for this spiritual song. Paul was willing to be poured out (emptied). Will we do the same?

“Our God, He Is Alive” – 23

Before our lesson this morning we’ll sing an old favorite. But don’t be drawn into singing it by rote. This spiritual song calls us to praise our God with every voice. The men take the lead in the refrain while the ladies echo. Notice what the ladies sing “…From dust, our God created man…” God created Adam from dust, but the woman from Adam’s side. She sings about the man’s creation. Nice poetic touch. He is indeed, “the Great I Am!”

“All to Jesus I Surrender” – 662

Not under compulsion, but willingly do we sing this invitation song? “I surrender all!” Really? Can you sing that with a clear conscience? Do you (will you) give everything over to God? Whether this is poetic or if you truly aspire it personally, one day we will all bow at His feet and surrender to Him. Might as well strive for that now. “All to Jesus I surrender, all to Him I freely give. I will ever love and trust Him, in His presence daily live…”

“Days of Elijah” – no book

Will you sing, have you sung this contemporary, spiritual song? Notice the Biblical references that are woven throughout; “These are the days of Elijah…” as he stood up for God against the prophets of Baal. The days of Moses striving to restore God’s people to righteousness. The days of Ezekiel as God raised an army from dry bones and David as we rebuild our bodies (temples) to praise God. All the while we see trials, famine, darkness and the ‘sword.’ But take courage, salvation comes through Jesus. We sing Revelation 1:7 as we join in the chorus, “Behold, He is coming with the clouds…”

1, April 14, 20141, April 15, 2014

Tax Relief

What a great feeling we have when we finally fulfill our civic duty and file our annual income taxes. Is this a great time of year or what? Maybe not so much, but don’t forget Romans 13:7; “Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.” Even God commanded His people to, “Levy a tax for the Lord from the men of war who went out to battle…” Numbers 31:28 (read that in it’s entirety, you’ll find it interesting.)

So surely each of us have taken care of this little chore and have not put it off until the last minute (which, by the way, is tomorrow, April 15th). But to be honest, this is a tough reality to face. Even as we understand the expectation from God’s word, and even if we anticipate a return, we still have to go through the process of filing our taxes. In the last several years different sources (software) have helped us step through each question. Still we have to pull together the information, log in the data and keep accurate records. Let’s face it; tax season can bring about stress. It would be so much easier to turn that burden over to someone else who has the expertise to answer each question. Someone to worry about the details, the stress of “getting it right.” Just to have someone take the ‘stress’ and sort it all out. What a relief to have that burden, that time intensive focus, taken off our shoulders. To give the trouble of filing taxes to an expert who is qualified and capable of taking care of the future.

The parallel for Christians is obvious. What would you do to have someone carry the burden of life and sort out all your ‘messy details.’ We all have lives that are fraught (filled) with questions like, “Am I doing it right?” “Did I leave something out?” “I know there are mistakes, but how do I figure this out?” For the child of God we have someone who is capable and qualified to handle our needs. He answers our questions and (if you will) files our taxes. Paying our debts and giving us an unparalleled return. Jesus is our ‘accountant’ who can take the details of life and sort them out. Though we don’t know in life when ‘taxes are due,’ our April 15th will be when Christ returns…judgment day. It can’t be found on any calendar but we know it is near. James 5:8 states, “You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.”We focus our life on being ready to “file,” but it’s refreshing to know that we have someone who can take care of all the paper work. We don’t live under stress or frustration. We follow God’s word and let Christ rule in our hearts. God has given us His only Son to take the burden, and to pay the price. But to understand this, we must live as children of God. Rest assured, He is keeping accurate records of our life and knows what is due. But He also has given us hope so that when “Tax Day” comes, we will be ready to file.