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, June 27, 20141, June 27, 2014

Fixing the Pharisees…June 29th

Perhaps you’ve heard the phrase, “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.” But the reverse could be true; if it is broken, it needs to be fixed. Your car doesn’t start so you find out what’s wrong with it and fix it. Your computer is running slow, so do some checking and then get it fixed. Evaluate what you are having problems with, and then see what needs to be done to fix it.

The Pharisees in Jesus’ day had their idea of how best to ‘worship’ God. But a quick study of the text shows they were missing the mark. Their practices were selfish and based on political partiality. In short, the religious leaders during Christ’s time were broken and needed to be fixed. But how about you and your worship to God? Are you ‘doing it right?’ Join us on Sunday morning as we consider, ‘fixing the Pharisees.’

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

Sunday morning, June 29, 2014

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

“To God Be the Glory” – 2

“Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Let the earth hear His voice…” What a great song of praise as we open our worship time together.

“God Has Smiled on Me” – 118

A song typically sung slowly to emphasize the blessings we have as God ‘smiles’ us. But this morning we’ll sing this song with a faster tempo to match the level of energy with the previous song. Notice the connection: “…O come to the Father, through Jesus the Son, and give Him the glory great things He hath done.” “God has smiled on me, He has set me free…” Praise the Lord!

“Great is Thy Faithfulness” – 57

Written in the early 1900’s, this hymn of praise echoes our thankfulness to God for His faithfulness. How do we know God is faithful; “…morning by morning new mercies I see…” Verse two gives even more for the Christian to hold on to; “Summer and winter and spring time and harvest, sun, moon and stars in their courses above join with all nature in manifold (multiple) witness to Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.”

“Tis Set the Feast Divine” – no book

“It is set, the feast divine..” We come together on the first day of the week to commemorate our Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. We do that when we partake of the Lord’s Supper, the ‘feast divine.’ But what is being served for this feast? We sing what we read from the scripture, “the bread and the fruit of the vine.”

“Til My Faith Becomes Sight” – 836

A song which I would call a contemporary hymn, written just 23 years ago, provides us with six names for our Lord, Jesus Christ; 1) Bread of Life (John 6:35), 2) Living Water (John 4:10), 3) Lover of my soul (Romans 8:39), 4) Lamb of God (John 1:36), 5) Hope of Glory (Colossians 1:27), 6) Savior crucified (Acts 2:36).

“When This Passing World is Done” – 259

Do you understand all that Jesus has done for you? Can you comprehend the vastness of His compassion on His people? This hymn (prayer) sung to God has been around for more than 150 years, and yet it still holds a true message for us today. When this life is over, when I stand before judgment, when I hear the thunderous praise of heaven…then I’ll know how much I owe for the gift of my salvation. But notice the scripture reference in verse 4; “…for now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face, for I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” (I Cor. 13:12). So we sing, “E’en on earth as through a glass, darkly let Thy glory pass.” Don’t wait until you stand before the throne of God, consider all that God has done for you, even while you are here on earth…

“More About Jesus” – 678

Before our lesson we sing this spiritual song about desiring to know ‘more about Jesus.’ If we think we have it ‘all figured out,’ and if we think we’re NOT broken, we run the risk of being Pharisaical…never thinking we need to be fixed.

“Purer in Heart, O God” – 671

Oh to be like Christ (that’s what Christian means), “…we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is. And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” We sing this song as our invitation song, calling for us to have pure hearts. How can that be? We sing, “May I devote my life wholly to Thee…”

“Light the Fire” – no book

A contemporary song that calls us to be ‘on fire’ for God. We are all broken and need to be fixed, and one way we can do that is to stand and praise our God. Understanding my position, I should fall to my knees in humility. And so we sing, “…Lord, You know where I’ve been (I’m broken), so light the fire in my heart again (fix me).” Jesus tried to ‘fix’ the Pharisees in their stubborn, broken state, but they resisted. So what about you, will you let Him fix you?

1, June 13, 20141, June 17, 2014

A Letter to My Father…June 15th

What do you remember about your father? Is he still with you, or has he passed away? There are some who will say, ‘I never knew him.’ Others will remember how he taught them to ride a bike or throw a ball. Still others will remember how he disciplined with hands of steel, but encouraged with hands of love. Perhaps you can remember your father teaching you to fold your hands in prayer.

All too often we reflect on our lives and realize how quickly life is passing us by. Whether we agree with the way our fathers raised us or not, many of us have memories about him. But if you were to pen him a letter, what would you say? Do you know what you’d thank him for or would you be at a loss for words? Sunday, June 15th will be Father’s Day. Enjoy time with your father, if he’s still with you, or give him a call. Better yet, pen him a letter and share some of your memories with him.

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

Sunday morning, June 15, 2014

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

“Hallelujah! Praise Jehovah” – 3

Taken from the 148th Psalm we see a list of those who are called upon to praise Jehovah. Angels, sun and moon, sea creatures, fire and hail, beast and cattle, kings, maidens, young men, aged men, children; all created things are to praise the Creator! The reason why is found in the 13th verse, “…for His name alone is exalted.” Do you praise God or, in your life, do you have other things that are exalted?

“Worthy Is the Lamb” – no book

Sung to the tune of Just As I Am we find the thoughts of this song coming from the book of Revelation. Chapter 5 verse 9 reads, “Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation.” Then we sing, “You alone are worthy to open its seals, because you were slain and gave Your blood. You purchased every man for God, O worthy is the Lamb.”

“Remind Me, Dear Lord” – 315

We sing this song following the Lord’s Supper and during the contribution. Notice the 2nd verse, “Nothing good have I done to deserve God’s own Son; I’m not worthy of the scars in His hands yet He chose the road to Calvary to die in my stead; why He loved me, I can’t understand…” Sometimes we need to be reminded, even to write a letter.

“Amazing Grace” – 129 & “Holy Ground” – 101

A medley before our lesson that blends the traditional with the contemporary. We choose it for the words of the first verse in Amazing Grace and how appropriately they match with our scripture reading. Reading about the prodigal son’s return in Luke 15 the scripture says, “…for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.” The son returns to his father who has been waiting with open arms. Amazing grace…

“Softly and Tenderly” – 934

An invitation song that we’ve song for years (more than 130 to be exact) calls the wandering sinner to turn back to God. Visions of the stubborn child who has run away from home are seen as we plea for those who are weary to ‘come home.’ A Father with tender compassion is waiting to welcome you back; will you come home?

“The Christian’s Welcome Home” – no book

“How sweet will be the welcome home…” An older spiritual song that encourages the singer to look toward heaven. But don’t forget the admonishment in the 3rd verse; “If we are faithful we shall gain, the land of promised rest…” We have a Father who is waiting for us to come home.

1, April 4, 20141, April 5, 2014

From the Beginning to the End…April 6th

There’s a simple little pamphlet that provides ‘expert commentary on major themes, plots, characters, and (the) historical background’ of many literary works. This study guide, CliffsNotes, has provided students with the opportunity to learn about a specific book. A useful means by which some find an amazing summary of some great works of literature.

In similar form, the book of Revelation sketches the entire sweep of humanity. The church Christ died for and her epic struggle to remain faithful to Him. The spiritual war between God and Satan, and a figurative look at that final battle. But these ‘notes’ are more than just a summary. And Sunday morning’s lesson will be more than just CliffsNotes; in a few short minutes we’ll go from…the beginning to the end!

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

Sunday morning, April 6, 2014

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

“Great Are You Lord” – no book

Opening our hearts and voices we’ll sing the praise of God in this short, contemporary hymn. ‘Holy Lord, Most Holy Lord! You alone are worthy of my praise…’ Join us in singing a song of praise unto the Lord Most High!

“How Great Thou Art” – 76

Transitioning from this recently written song of praise (Great Are You Lord), we’ll continue the thought of praise with a hynm that was penned 65 years previously. But don’t think this song has it’s origin in the mid-1900’s. It’s inspiration comes from a poem written by Carl Boberg in the late 1880’s. Seeing the majesty and power of a thunderstorm reminded him of the power and majesty of our God. He was moved to pen the thoughts that we sing today. “…I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed. Then sings my soul…How great Thou art!”

“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” – 315

Taking all five verses of this song we’ll sing before, during and after the Lord’s Supper. Before the partaking of the bread we’ll sing a verse not found in many of our hymnals, “His dying crimson like a robe, spreads o’er His body on the tree. Then I am dead to all the globe and all the globe is dead to me.” Notice the reference to his blood-soaked body and the message of Paul to the church in Colossae; “Since you died with Christ to the elemental spiritual forces of this world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules?” (NIV) Colossians 2:20. During this time of meditation, let me encourage you to focus on the Savior and ‘survey’ the cross.

“I Come to the Garden Alone” – 595

Written from the perspective of Mary Magdalen as she came to the tomb of Christ we sing; “I come to the garden alone while the dew is still on the roses…and the voice I hear falling on my ear, the Son of God discloses…” Perhaps after reading John 20:15, we can better understand the ‘voice I hear.’ “Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping?’” Understanding the context of the songs we sing will strengthen our songs of praise and edification.

“Doxology” – 66

Have you ever considered what this word means? Doxology comes from two Greek words, δόξα, (doxa) meaning “glory” and –λογία, (-logia) meaning “saying.” So translated, when we sing “Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!” We are actually…”Saying Glory!” A simple hymn with an obscure title giving us a noble message.

“Step by Step” – 15

“O God, You are my God and I will ever praise You!” Ask yourself, do you seek Him in the morning, and do you honestly strive to walk in His way? We sing the song and many will see our walk, but only you know whether or not you are seeking Him at the dawning of every day. It’s a walk that takes one step at a time…step by step He WILL lead me.

“Just As I Am” – 924

A beautiful invitation song we have sung since the mid-1800’s. Singing this song of encouragement (though it is actually a song we sing to HIM) we proclaim that we will indeed come to God, to the Lamb of God who shed His blood!

“When We All Get to Heaven” – 853

When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus, we’ll sing and shout the victory.” WOW…consider that message we’ll sing as our closing song on Sunday morning. Are we ready to see Jesus? Are you ready to ‘shout the victory?’ Only if we come to him and walk with Him (step by step) will we ‘get to heaven.’ We can learn about our Savior and come to know and love Him as we study from ‘the beginning to the end.’

1, February 14, 20141, March 10, 2014

Marrying a Stranger…Feb. 16th

The formal wedding ceremony is one we are all familiar with. But this morning we’ll look at a very different ‘wedding’ found within the pages of God’s word. Consider this thought; would you marry someone you’ve never met? It’s one thing to have an arranged marriage, but what if the first look you have at your wife is her coming to you behind a veil? (Maybe this is where we get the idea of the wedding veil.)

In Genesis 24, following the death of his wife Sarah, Abraham gives directions to his ‘oldest’ servant to go back to his homeland (Ur of the Chaldeans) and look for a wife for his son, Issac. The instructions are clear and God’s providential work is amazing to read. But the faith of these men is something to consider. To make a long story short; a girl is found, Rebecca, and she goes along with a stranger, Abraham’s servant, to meet a stranger, Issac, whom she will marry on sight, no pun intended. Reading the whole account in Genesis 24:1-67 gives new meaning to…’marrying a stranger.’

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

Sunday morning, February 16, 2014

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

“All Things Praise Thee” – 43

“All things praise Thee, Lord most high, heaven and earth and sea and sky…All things praise Thee night to night…and day by day…All things praise Thee, heaven’s high shrine (seraph & archangels)…” This song identifies those who praise God from within His creation. Each verse, therefore, concludes with the saints singing, “…All things praise Thee – Lord, my we!”

“O Worship the King” – 144

As a continuation of this medley we go from singing, “…This their (heaven’s high shrine’s) highest bliss (greatest joy is) to be, ever praising – Lord may we!” to “O worship the King…”! Humbling yourself to worship God allows you to see how ‘feeble’ you (we) really are. We are children of dust, but we know Who we trust!

“When My Love to Christ Grows Weak” – 350

All five verses of this song build in progression as we remember the Lord’s Supper. 1) When I start to lose my love for Christ, I need to look no further than His last few hours in the Garden of Gethsemane. 2) Then, in thought, I walk through that garden, to see Him weeping and praying alone. 3) This scene helps me stop and think about those times when my love for my fellowman is weak (which is more often than I’d like to admit). How can I love my brother better? Looking to the cross on Golgotha (Calvary) I find strength for my faith. 4) Reflectively, in this fourth verse, I stand at the cross and see “…His agony…His anguish…His faith.” 5) And finally we turn from death, to life with a new lesson learned. We are stronger after we suffer, and there is a power sacrifice. Thanks be to God for His self-sacrifice! May we learn from Him.

“Behold a Stranger” – 919

An invitation song we may recognize, but this morning we’ll sing it after the Lord’s Supper. Our reason is found in the second verse. But notice how verse one builds upon verse two; “Behold a Stranger at the door! He gently knocks, has knocked before, has waited long, is waiting still; you treat no other friend so ill (unkindly). But will He prove a Friend indeed? He will! The very Friend you need! The Man of Nazareth, it is He, with garments dyed (stained) at Calvary.”

“In His Presence” – 99

A beautiful contemporary song that is simple in word as well as musical structure. “In His presence there is comfort, in His presence there is peace. When we seek the Father’s heart we find such blessed assurance…”

“O Thou Fount of Every Blessing” – 226

Perhaps one of my favorite hymns (we’re singing to Him) as we consider the Old English wording. Notice especially verse two; “Here I raise my Ebenezer…” my stone of help, my reminder because, ‘thus far the Lord has helped me.’ Or as the KJV reads, ‘Hither by Thy help I’ve come.’ A clear reference from I Samuel 7:12. Yet verse three also is one to note; “O to grace how great a debtor daily I’m constrained to be! Let Thy goodness like a fetter bind my wandering heart to Thee…” Translated, “Every day I’m in debt to God for the grace He has given me. Lord, let Your goodness chain my wandering heart to You.” But here’s why, “(I am) Prone to wander, Lord I feel it. (I am) Prone to leave the God I love.” We have wandering hearts and wandering eyes. Would that God chain us up with His goodness.

“There’s a Stranger at the Door” – 908

With our lesson being about ‘marrying a stranger’, I thought we’d sing again about the Stranger at the door. But this time we will be offering an invitation to those who might ‘let the Savior in.’ Again, a reference from the scriptures as we read the words of Christ in Revelation 3:19, 20; ‘Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock.’ Will you, have you, let Him into your heart?

Wait for a few seconds before this song begins…

“Faithful Love” – no book

Marriage is all about love. As Christ loves His bride, so we ought to love our spouse. The scripture states plainly, Issac loved Rebecca (Genesis 24:67). He married a stranger, but he loved and cherished her. Our Savior is faithful and His love is unequaled. In faithful love He came to earth to show the Father’s love to us. And in so doing, thanks be to God, the groom and the bride will never be strangers.

1, February 4, 20141, March 10, 2014

Rejoice in the Lord…Always?

This week is the Freed-Hardeman’s Lectureship in Henderson, Tennessee. For seventy-eight years this noble institution has invited strong, Bible-based speakers across the nation to share their thoughts and understanding from God’s word. This year’s lectureship has been focused on I & II Thessalonians and men like David Shannon, Ralph Gilmore, Bruce McLarty and Bill Watkins have taken the pulpit and presented the truth.

Perhaps one of the most encouraging messages I’ve heard at this point in the week came on Monday morning in chapel. Craig Evans, from Spring Hill, Tennessee, brought the lesson focusing on I Thess. 5:16. “Rejoice always…” The message was simple as we considered when and why we rejoice. Often we find it easy to ‘be happy’ and understand the times of rejoicing, but Paul tells the church in Thessalonica to rejoice ALL the time (always). How do I do that? How can I ‘be happy’ when times are sad and dreary? Is there reason to rejoice in the face of disaster, misery and death? It’s easy to show excitement when you’re feeling well, and any of us can be happy when we’re celebrating. But how can we keep the command of I Thess. 5:16? How can I possibly, rejoice ALWAYS?

Perhaps James offers a bit of understanding as we read the second verse of the first chapter of James, “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials…” When you despair and see nothing but cloudy skies, rejoice. When heartaches fill your days, rejoice. When dangers threaten your very existence, rejoice. But still the question haunts me…how do I do that? How can I rejoice in time of dire distress? The answer may be best found in God’s Word. Do we spend time in His word letting Him ‘teach me’ the joy of His salvation? King David understood that joy as he wrote Psalm 51. Perhaps this hymn from the early 1900’s will help us understand and appreciate the joy that comes through God’s holy word. We can know HOW to rejoice when we learn and follow His way.

“Teach me Thy way, O Lord, teach me Thy way! Thy guiding grace afford, teach me Thy way! Help me to walk aright, more by faith, less by sight; Lead me with heav’nly light, teach me Thy way!

When I am sad at heart, teach me Thy way! When earthly joys depart, teach me Thy way! In hours of loneliness, in times of dire distress, In failure or success, teach me Thy way!

When doubts and fears arise, teach me Thy way! When storms o’erspread the skies, teach me Thy way! Shine through the cloud and rain, through sorrow, toil and pain; Make Thou my pathway plain, teach me Thy way!

Long as my life shall last, teach me Thy way! Where’er my lot be cast, teach me Thy way! Until the race is run, until the journey’s done, Until the crown is won, teach me Thy way!”

1, December 4, 20131, December 4, 2013

O Come, O Come Emmanuel

As we consider this hymn many call a ‘Christmas song,’ we find it ancient in not only its text, but in the music as well. The tune you most certainly know it by (made popular in the 1800’s) actually finds its origin from the medieval times. The lack of strict rhythmic measures gives the tune a free-flowing style. You can almost hear the simple intervals as they echo through an old, stone cathedral.

Like many hymns of worship, the text of this song provides a rich source for Christian meditation as we notice that each stanza concentrates on a specific Biblical name for Christ. Jesus is God with us, “Emmanuel.” He is the “Wisdom from on high” and the “the Lord of might.” We read in the scripture He is called “the Rod of Jesse” (Isaiah 11:1) and the “Key of David” (Isaiah 22:22) “…and the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open.” Jesus is the ‘Dayspring’ (17: 76-79); “…And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; to give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, to give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Certainly, our Savior is the “Desire of Nations” (Haggai 2:7) “…and I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come: and I will fill this house with glory, saith the Lord of hosts.” The prophets of old wrote and today we sing of our Savior, Emmanuel.

Consider this old, ‘Christmas Hymn’ as we take this month to look at and explore some familiar favorites. The “Song of the Day”…O Come, O Come Emmanuel.

O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel,

that mourns in lonely exile here until the Son of God appear.

Chorus: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel,

shall come to thee o Israel!

O come, Thou Wisdom, from on high, and order all things far and nigh;

to us the path of knowledge show, and teach us in her ways to go.

O come, o come, Thou Lord of might, who to thy tribes on Sinai’s height

in ancient times did give the law, in cloud, and majesty, and awe.

O come, Thou Rod of Jesse’s stem, from ev’ry foe deliver them

that trust Thy mighty power to save, and give them vict’ry o’er the grave.

O come, Thou Key of David, come, and open wide our heav’nly home,

make safe the way that leads on high, that we no more have cause to sigh.

O come, Thou Dayspring from on high, and cheer us by thy drawing nigh;

disperse the gloomy clouds of night and death’s dark shadow put to flight.

O come, Desire of the nations, bind in one the hearts of all mankind;

bid every strife and quarrel cease and fill the world with heaven’s peace.

1, August 30, 20131, August 30, 2013

The Opportunity of a Life Time…September 1st

Some things only come around ‘once in a life time.’ We look forward to those opportunities when we can ‘make our mark’ or share some level of expertise that will effect that one-time, life-changing event. So what would you do when that time comes? Do you know when that moment will be?

Maybe we should ask, ‘can we prepare for that once in a life time event?’ How much training would it take to be ready? Then again, you would need to know what to train for and how to prepare for that opportunity. So consider this…what if someone asks you about Christ? Could that be ‘the opportunity of a life time’ and would you be ready?

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

Sunday morning, September 1, 2013

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

“Doxology” 66
“I Sing Praises” – 97

A simple medley that combines a traditional hymn (1709) with a contemporary hymn (1989). The key signature is the same, but the message is what makes this a powerful duo. As the congregation sings, “Praise God from whom all blessings flow…”, we continue with the assurance that we will “…sing praises to Thy name, O, Lord…” A beautiful combination of praise to our God.

“Tell Me the Story of Jesus” – 387

Many have sung this old spiritual song their whole life (written in 1880), and we have heard the singer tell about Christ on the Cross. But not just the cross, we also tell about the grave were Christ was ‘buried’. Yet without the next line our song would come to a sad conclusion. But then, as the Son rises, we sing, “tell that He lives again…” (Notice, we are singing the gospel; the death, burial and resurrection.) The third verse holds an emotional plea to, “…stay, let me weep while you whisper, ‘Love paid the ransom for me…” Think for a minute, when was the last time you cried when you considered Christ’s sacrifice?

“My Eyes are Dry” – 792

Listen to the message from this rather recent spiritual song/hymn; “My eyes are dry, my faith is old, my heart is hard, my prayers are cold…” A fearful situation to be sure, but how true is it for those who come together every Sunday morning? How many just go through the motions of being a Christian and never take inventory of their spiritual well-being. Without Jesus…we are lost. We all need to be ‘softened up’ with the spirit of His love and ‘washed anew’ in His blood. So…when was the last time you cried when you thought about His love?

“A Charge to Keep I Have” – 58
“People Need the Lord” – 660

Another medley we’ll sing before our lesson that combines the traditional (1832) with the contemporary (1983). In a dangerously lost world, it doesn’t take much to see that people need Jesus. And we, as children of God, have a charge, a responsibility to tell the world about Him. We may realize, but do we care that, “people need the Lord?”

“I Love to Tell the Story” – 659

We talk about all the things we love in life, but before our lesson we’ll sing about ‘loving to tell’ the story of Jesus Christ. You have certainly sung the song, but will you do what you sing? Each of these verses are filled with the reason we should not only sing about our Savior, but look forward to telling others about Him too. You can never tell when that ‘opportunity of a life time’ will come to you.

“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543

Let’s stand and sing this familiar melody from the late 1800′s. Not a typical invitation song, but the message couldn’t be clearer, “…sinner, list to the loving call,” “Wonderful words of Life; offer pardon and peace to all…” How eager are you to ‘Sweetly echo the gospel call…?” You never know when someone might be ready to listen to those wonderful words of life.

“Will You Not Tell It Today” – 628

As we leave the auditorium Sunday morning we’ll sing the question that has be asked for generations, “If the name of the Savior is precious to you…will you tell it (the good news) today?” But notice the ending to each of the three verses; “…will you not tell of your gladness today?”, “…will you not, my brother, the story repeat (the story of salvation)?” “…will you not tell them (the lost) the cheer-bringing word?” If you’re honest with yourself, every day you have the opportunity of a life-time.

1, July 26, 20131, July 25, 2013

Sermons from an Empty Pew…July 28th

You might be familiar with the adage, “Actions speak louder than words.” A smile might tell you someone is happy while a frown expresses disappointment or frustration. But honestly, what sermon could we possible hear from an empty seat? Is anything to be learned when someone is missing from church services. Is it that big of a deal when someone is ‘MIA’ from the assembly?

Each Sunday morning God’s people come together to worship, edify, study and commemorate Christ’s sacrifice on Calvary. But what are the consequences when a Christian doesn’t come? What is the lesson we can learn from ‘an empty pew?’

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

Sunday morning, July 28, 2013

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

“O Worship the King” -144

A great song of praise and that many are familiar with. But with familiarity comes an opportunity for laziness. We know some songs so well we sing them without given them much thought, a dangerous maneuver. For example; we sing the third verse with energy, “O worship the King, all glorious above, And gratefully sing His wonderful love; (no problem so far, we understand what we’re saying) Our Shield and Defender, the Ancient of Days, pavilion-ed in splendor and girded with praise.” When you sing this song recognize that as God is covered with brilliancy (magnificence), He is also surrounded (enthroned) with praise!”

“I’m Not Ashamed to Own My Lord” – 609

Are there things you are ashamed of? Things you’d rather not have ‘in the open?’ Is your faith in Jesus one of those things? Without hesitation we would say “NO”, but how many of your peers on the job or in your circle of influence know how important Jesus is to you? Some might say they are not ashamed of Christ, but the question comes in the next line…will you defend His cause?

“Til My Faith Becomes Sight” – 836

“Tho they slay me, tho I fall; in darkness You are light, Jesus. I will keep my eyes on You till my faith becomes sight.” Dennis Jernigan writes this song and some may wonder, who would slay me; I know there’s times I fall, but how can I keep my eyes on Jesus when it’s dark? Remember the battle and keep in mind, our falling and the darkness of this world is not physical, but spiritual. Keep your eyes on Christ as your faith is strengthened in Him.

“Take Time to Be Holy” – 731

The message of this song is simple, but extremely thorough. Notice what happens when we take the time to be holy. We will speak often with our Lord. We will feed on His word (read the Bible). We’ll make friends of God’s children, the family of God, and we’ll help those who are weak. Then above everything else (in all that we do), we will seek His blessings. And to think, that’s just the first verse!

“We Gather Together” – no book

Some might remember this old hymn (spiritual song) as one we sang in November, around Thanksgiving time. It does lean toward being thankful for all God has given us, but my intention is for us to consider this first line; “We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing…” As a congregation of God’s people we need to be ready, willing and eager to gather together.

“How Firm a Foundation” – 457

Ask any engineer and you’ll hear that your structure is only a solid as the foundation it’s built upon. In Christ we have a firm foundation, one that won’t crack, shift or crumble throughout the years. A foundation with a guarantee, a seal as Paul says when writing to Timothy, “…the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, ‘The Lord knows those who are His,’ and “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness.’ “ So, how is your foundation? Or maybe you should ask, how’s your seal?

“Great Are You, Lord” – no book

Before our lesson this morning we’ll praise God with this hymn of praise. ‘Holy Lord, most holy Lord! You alone are worth of our praise!’ He is great and He is worthy. Lift up your voice and give God the praise. This morning, tomorrow morning, every morning we should be ready to proclaim, “GREAT ARE YOU LORD!”

“I Am Resolved” – 948

Every January 1st you find people making their ‘new year’s resolutions.’ A time when you say you fix your mind toward accomplishing your goals. A time when you promise yourself personal achievement. A new year, a new start, a new goal. But this invitation song is more than just a first of the year promise. As we sing, we sing to confirm a promise. We are resolved no longer to linger, to go to the Savior, to follow the Savior, and ultimately, to enter the kingdom. In your resolution do you hasten to Him or just take your time?

“Will Jesus Find Us Watching” – no book

When Jesus comes back to receive His own where will you be? What will you be doing? This spiritual song is one I remember from my child-hood. Standing in the auditorium at 1st Street church of Christ in Dumas, Texas I remember standing beside my brother and singing the chorus of this song, “O can we say we are ready, brother? Ready for the souls bright home? Say, will He find you and me still watching, waiting, waiting when the Lord shall come?” So…how about it; are you ready, are you watching?