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…

In Genesis 3, the Lord came to the Garden of Eden and called to Adam, “Where are you?”  Were Adam and God playing hide-and-seek and God really didn’t know where Adam was hiding?  No, God knew where Adam was – “there is no creature hidden from His sight” (Heb. 4:13).  His words were intended to test and challenge Adam. On another occasion…

If you ever get into a study with a Jehovah’s Witness, one thing you will find out is that they believe, “To die is to go out of existence.”  How morbid!  How sad!  So, when I die, I will cease to exist?  I will have no consciousness at all?  But, wait a minute!  The Bible says… “The spirit will return to God…

In a feeble attempt to dismiss the necessity of baptism in order to obtain remission of sins, some have argued that baptism is a work and that the Bible says we are not saved by works.  Space prevents a full discussion of works, but the summary of Scriptural teaching is that man cannot be saved by his own boastful works of merit…