As Christians, we must constantly be aware of our influence and the impact that it has on others.  However, the works and responsibilities for one to become a Christian and to live a faithful Christian life are more than “for show.” The Bible teaches that one must be baptized to be saved (Mark 16:16).  It is more than “for show.”  The Bible…

In last night’s sermon, I made up a statistic that I figured was pretty close and was trying to illustrate a point.  (By the way, have you read that 79% of statistics are made up on the spot?)  For those who were not there, I admitted during the lesson that I was making it up (because I wanted to be honest, and…

It is a humbling and sobering thought to spend time reflecting upon and considering the implications of Psalm 24:1 – “The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein.”  There is nothing, NOTHING that I can see, touch, pick up, borrow, own, sell, break or give away that does not already belong to God.  There…

Christians are reminded in the New Testament that “whatever a man sows, that he will also reap” (Gal. 6:7; cf. 2 Cor. 9:6).  In lessons today about the Christian’s responsibility to give, that principle is often included, with the emphasis usually being placed on the need for “sowing.”  But, when it comes to the “reaping,” what do you do (or will you…

Eleven of the 150 psalms begin with these three words, “Praise the LORD!” (including the last five psalms, 146-150).  The word “praise” is found over 150 times in the book.  Oftentimes, the word “praise” and the word “sing” are used synonymously (cf. Psa. 7:17; 57:9; 104:33; 135:3; 146:2).  Study Psalm 147:1 and you’ll find three reasons why we should sing praise to…

I recognize that the Bible teaches that Christians must “love one another” (1 Pet. 4:8), “care for one another” (1 Cor. 12:24), “serve one another” (Gal. 5:13) and have “compassion for one another” (1 Pet. 3:8).  We have a responsibility to “do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Gal. 6:10).  But, as brethren, we also…

I ran across this quote yesterday and found it very interesting:  “Effective 24 January 2006, the NAC has changed its position on Holy Baptism…. A specially scheduled information evening in Uster (Switzerland) was transmitted via satellite to all NAC congregations around the world.” At least two things stand out in this announcement.  First, someone (or some ones) felt it was necessary to…

It is not a popular idea in some religious circles, but as one reads through the Bible he will not be able to escape the truth that work is inextricably tied to our salvation.  Philippians 2:12-13 is just one of those plain passages:  “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in…