WHERE DOES THE CONGREGATION STAND?

TAKING SOUND GOSPEL PREACHING FOR GRANTED

Sometimes those of us who have been privileged to routinely hear sound gospel preaching come to take it for granted. To those who have had the “other kind” of preaching, the plain unvarnished truth boldly proclaimed and defended is a cool, uplifting, and refreshing draft of essential spiritual nourishment. I assure you that is not what many churches that continue to have church of Christ “above the door” are hearing. Many of the churches that are not openly promoting false doctrines, refrain from dealing with the first principles and fundamentals of Christianity that set the church of our Lord far apart from denominational sectarian churches founded and sustained on the commandments and doctrines of men.

“AS THE PULPIT GOES . . .”

Someone has well said that “as the pulpit goes, so goes the church.” I may also add that “as the eldership goes, so goes the pulpit.” But, that is not the end to “what and when” and “where they go.” If the church members do not respect Bible authority in all things (Colossians 3:17; II Timothy 3:16-17; 2:15; Hebrews 4:12; Luke 8:11,15; Ephesians 6:17; James 1:25; John 12:48), they will not tolerate scriptural elders who superintend the church according to God’s will. Such a rebellious church will raise up elders who are “men pleasers.” When this happens and is not corrected, gone is “the faithful spiritual neighborhood that is the church.”

A FABLE LOVING AND FORGETFUL PEOPLE

As noted, one of the first things to go when such rebellion permeates the bride of Christ is the faithful courageous gospel preacher. “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables” (II Timothy 4:3-4).

Indeed, today we are in the midst of a “fable” loving people. Furthermore, we are living among “forgetful” people. As good Jeremiah declared of apostate fleshly Israel, so it is with spiritual Israel, the church. “Can a maid forget her ornaments or a bride her attire? yet my people have forgotten me days without number” (Jeremiah 2:32). Because so many in the church love “fables,” they have replaced the truth of the gospel with them. In general brethren have forgotten that…:

1. “God is not man that he should lie” (Numbers 23:19);
2. To rebellious man “it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God” (Hebrews 10:31);
3. “God is not mocked” (Galatians 6:7)―man shall reap what he sows.
4. “The conclusion of the whole matter…” for man “is to fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecclesiastes 12:13);
5. The love of God always manifests itself in faithful obedience to God’s commandments (John 14:15; I John 2:5; 5:3).
6. Christ saves only those who obey him (John 14:6; Hebrews 5:9; Romans 6:3-4; 17-18; Acts 10:48);
7. There is only one plan of salvation (Romans 10:17; Acts 17:30; Romans 10:10; Acts 22:16);
8. There is only one church acceptable to God and she contains all those who are saved by Christ (Acts 2:38; 47; Ephesians 4:4; 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18; 5:25-27).
9. The Lord’s church exists any time and any where men will obey the gospel and “continue stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Mark 16:15; Romans 1:16; Acts 2:42).
10. The church of Christ is not a denomination; that is, she is not a part of the whole church, but she is the whole church or realm of the saved (Matthew 16:18; Acts 20:28; Ephesians 4:4; Colossians 1:18; Ephesians 5:23);
11. The kingdom of Christ and the church of Christ are one and the same institution (Matthew 16:18-19; Mark 9:1; Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8; 2:4, 41-42, 47; Colossians 1:13; Revelation 1:9; II Corinthians 15:24-28).                                                                         

WE MUST PREACH THE WHOLE COUNSEL OF GOD

While there are other marks of identity of the Lord’s church found on the pages of the New Testament, the above are sufficient to set forth those gospel truths that are not being taught by certain brethren. Yet, to be a faithful gospel preacher one must, with the apostle Paul, be able to declare: “For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God” (Acts 20:27).~

with a question. “Why do ye transgress the commandment omind. It was the commandment having to do with honoring father and mother (Matthew 15:4). But how were they reacting to this word?

David P. Brown

ONCE A WEEK IS NOT ENOUGH

It’s a long step from Sunday to Sunday! There is surely more to being faithful to the Lord of heaven and earth than “church attendance,” but can one be faithful to Him without? Is it necessary (to please God, to grow spiritually, to be saved) for one to assemble faithfully with the saints? If the New Testament teaches anything, it answers “yes”! We are obviously not speaking of the sick and shut-ins and others who are hindered beyond their control, but those who able to come. We aren’t merely asking if the preacher or elders care, but does God care? Consider the following:

Lord’s Day Assembly

Saints are commanded to partake of the Lord’s Supper to remember Christ (I Corinthians 11:24). The apostolic example (Acts 20:7) and uninspired early church history confirm that the church ate the Lord’s Supper on the first day of the week (cf. I Corinthians 16:1-2). These things were to be done “everywhere in every church” (I Corinthians 4:17). To willfully miss the Lord’s day assembly is to disregard these commands.

Other Assemblies

What about Sunday evening, Sunday morning Bible school or Wednesday night? Are such meetings Scriptural or unscriptural? Various meetings besides Sunday were held in the early church with apostolic approval (Acts 2:46; 4:23; 12:12, etc). It is certain that such additional meetings for study, worship and fellowship (Gospel meetings series, vacation Bible schools, workshops, etc.) greatly strength-en those who attend them and do untold good. In spite of Scriptural precedent and practical need for these meetings, some still weakly cling to the “Lord’s Supper only” approach to church attendance.

A Direct Command

As clearly as the New Testament teaches us not to commit adultery, not to steal or not to murder, it teaches “not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together” (Hebrews 10:25). To forsake is not merely to be absent. The sick man will be absent without forsaking the assembly if he would have been there except for sick-ness. To forsake is to abandon for something deemed more important. It is mere speculation to limit this command only to the Lord’s day assembly. Whenever there is a meeting of the saints at which we could be exhorted to pure living, we ought to be there. Moreover, we ought to want to be there!

Miscellaneous Principles

Lovers of God have always cherished worship and study opportunities (Psalms 42:1-4; 84:1-2, 10; Matthew 5:6). Can one “seek first the kingdom” while forsaking its assemblies? (Matthew 6:33). Does God care where we are when the saints meet?

Author Unknown

An Acrostic of the Word “Church”

C

Stands for Christ’s. The church belongs to Christ by right of purchase, Acts 20:28. “Take heed unto yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit hath made you overseers, to feed the church of the Lord which he purchased with His own blood.” The church is peculiarly Christ’s.

H

Stands for Head. The we read about in the Bible has only one head – that head is Christ. Ephesians 1:22f, “…and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is his body….”

U

Stands for Unity. The church must be found in unity – Christ prayed that “…they may all be one…” (John 17:20ff). Compare: Acts 4:32; I Corinthians 12:20; 1:10; 12:13. Unity!

R

Stands for Revealed. The kingdom the prophets wrote about and foretold was made known, hence revealed in Acts 2 – a fulfillment of Daniel 2 and Isaiah 2 and others. Acts 2:16, “This is that….”

C

Stands for the Cross. We have noted that Christ paid the price. He died on the cross for the sins of the world – Romans 5:8; Galatians 5:24; John 3:16. Song: “I Gave My Life for Thee,” “He Paid It All.”

H

Stands for Haven. The church is a haven for the saved. The Bible tells us that Christ is the Savior of the body (Ephesians 5:23); that means the body is made up of the saved. Acts 2 tells us “…the Lord added to the church those that were saved….” It is our haven now; our hope for the future in a place reserved for the faithful in Christ, our Heavenly Home. Haven – Hope – Heaven!

Jess Whitlock

“ACQUAINT NOW THYSELF WITH HIM, AND BE AT PEACE” Job 22:21

Men have sought for centuries to define peace, and it can be a difficult task. Some define peace as the absence of war, but it is more properly described as the presence of the Lord with one, whether war is present or not. Peace is a much discussed subject in the Bible, and it would be good for us to pause for a few moments from our daily pursuits and notice some of the biblical references concerning it.

The Psalmist wrote, “I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety” (Psalm 4:8). For those who faithfully follow Him, peace is a constant companion, “Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them” (Psalm 119:165). This does not mean that those who faithfully follow Him will never see adversity, but that despite the adversity peace is within them, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee” (Isaiah 26:3). We determine, in large part, whether we walk in peace or not, as Paul wished for the Colossians, “let the peace of God rule in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15).

The Christian age, in which we now live, was spoken of in prophecy as a time of peace, “they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more” (Isaiah 2:4). Again Isaiah wrote, “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid” (Isaiah 11:6). Paul said, “to be spiritually minded is life and peace” (Rom. 8:6). Those who are Christians, who have been justified by Christ, were said to “have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).

Christ knew the importance of peace, and He said, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). The peace which comes from above is a preserving peace. It will take us through the difficult periods of life and preserve us safely into the arms of the Lord, “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). As the gallant warrior of the Lord surveys the carnage and destruction round about him, as he sees all of the lost souls thrust into eternity without hope, as he sees his words fall on deaf ears, and as he sees his deeds of godliness go unappreciated, and as he sees his efforts “fail,” he nevertheless takes with him the knowledge mat God is with him, and helping him, and is most pleased with him. This leads to the realization that in the last day, when the judge of all the earth shall give out the eternal sentences for all men, his efforts will not be forgotten (I Corinthians 15:58). As the grand announcement to the world declares, where Christ is, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14). You can make this peace yours by obeying the Lord and walking faith-fully in Him.

Are you a Christian? Have you heard and believed the Gospel (Hebrews 11:6, Romans 10:17); repented of sins (Acts 17:30-31, Luke 13:3); confessed Him before men (Matthew 10:32-33, Acts 8:37); and been immersed in water for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38; 22:16)? Are you being faithful in all things (Revelation 2:10)?

Tim Smith

WHAT IS THE “STANCE” OF THE CONGREGATION?

That is a good question, and one especially appropriate in our day. It has been shown, time and time again, that a person baptized can grow and develop into a knowledgeable, working, and faithful child of God due, to a great extent, to the congregation wherein he has his membership. The opposite has been shown also. In fact, it is seen in the movement that some members must make, through job transfer, etc. Leave one sound and faithful congregation, and then place membership with and serve with a congregation known for “what it will tolerate,” and that child of God will change also. The individual will accept and blend in with the congregation. It depends on the congregation’s “stance.”

Be sure, a congregation will have a name, a reputation, based on its work and its “stance.” Rome was known for having a faith spoken of throughout the world (Romans 1:8). Thessalonica was known for its sounding out the word into far distant areas (1 Thessalonians 1:8). The churches of Macedonia were known for their liberal giving (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). Sardis, once having a good name, and with some of that still lingering in the minds of men, nevertheless was told by the Lord that “thou are dead” (Revelation 3:1). We recall hearing of one person saying, “This congregation is known for its love and that congregation is known for its doctrine!” That, brethren, is tragedy? Love and doctrine are combined within the system of the Lord. Jesus combined them in his statement in John 14:15.

What, by the way, wherever this is received, is the “stance” of the congregation where you are? Is the doctrine of God sounded forth powerfully and plainly, and without modification, addition, subtraction or dilution? Is the congregation a “disciplinary” one, in that sin is rebuked, and the wayward and disobedient are seen to with dispatch? Are the Bible classes known for their emphasis on the word of God, or are the classes given to playtime and waste-time? Have the elders led the congregation in taking a stand against worldliness, sectarianism and every other form of error that will weaken and finally kill the church? Is the emphasis of the congregation’s work that of preaching and teaching rather than entertainment and social work? Are those in the congregation content to abide in God’s will, rather than always having a desire for something new and appealing that they can borrow from sectarianism? Are those who stand up to preach and teach grounded in the faith, with no disposition to traipse off into liberalism, anti-ism, Crossroadism or any other “ism”? Oh yes, a congregation has a “stance”―a name―a reputation.         

Preachers can help it be known for what it is, good or bad. Elders can do the same. So can Bible class teachers. So can the members. What is entered into the eternal record books, under our names, will be those things we did/failed to do while members of the congregations where we lived. We will partake of, support, condone, and further whatever “stance” the congregation has taken. Now, the question again: How is it where you are? Are you ready to face God concerning it?

Bill Jackson

I Don’t Understand

Some things I don’t understand:

• I don’t understand how men who were once faithful Gospel preachers can preach a perverted “gospel” based on fantasy instead of fact (II Timothy 4:2; Galatians 1:6–9).
• I don’t understand why congregations put up with or fellowship preachers who have left the faith (I John 1:6–10; II John 9–11).
• I don’t understand how anyone can think that instrumental music in worship is authorized (or more beautiful) than singing that comes from our hearts (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16).
• I don’t understand how anyone can think that God’s Word changes just because his—or a family member’s—situation in life changes (Matthew 5:32; 19:3–9).
• I don’t understand how anyone can believe that the Spirit works directly on the heart of some unless he believes that God is a respecter of persons (Proverbs 24:23; John 7:24; Acts 10:34–35).
• I don’t understand why faithful Gospel preachers are ridiculed, abused, and even fired for doing what God has told them to do (I Corinthians 1:23; II Timothy 4:2).
• I don’t understand how anyone can love the things of this world and expect to be loved by the Father (I John 2:15–17).
• I don’t understand how God could love such a one as I and be willing to give up His Son to die as a sacrifice for me (John 3:16; Romans 5:8).
• I don’t understand pain, suffering, and death, but I do know that one day these will be no more (Revelation 21:3).

I don’t understand such things, but I know that if I endure faithfully to the end, God the Father will explain it all to me on that Day (II Timothy 4:7–8)!

Danny Box

The Christian Life

The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch (Acts 11:26). “Then Agrippa said unto Paul, ‘Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian’” (Acts 26:28). “Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed: but let him glorify God on this behalf” (I Peter 4:16).

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A CHRISTIAN

1. It means remission of past sins (Acts 2:38).
2. Membership in the church, the Body of Christ (Acts 2:47).
3. He can call God, Father (Romans 8:15).
4. He can worship and serve God acceptably (John 9:31).
5. He has the hope of eternal life in Christ (Revelation 2:10).

HOW DOES ONE BECOME A CHRISTIAN?

1. He believes unto righteousness (Romans 10:10).
2. He repents unto life (Acts 11:18).
3. He confesses unto salvation (Romans 10:10).
4. He is baptized into Christ (Galatians 3:27; Romans. 6:3). He is born again (John 3:5). See also I Peter 1:23.
5. A Christian must live like Christ; must follow Him.

WHY WEAR THE NAME CHRISTIAN?

1. It honors Christ who died for us (Hebrews 2:9).
2. We were baptized in the name of Christ (Acts 19:5).
3. Paul condemned human names (I Corinthians 1:10).
4. We are married to Christ (Romans 7:4). Therefore, we should wear His name.
5. There is salvation in no other name (Acts 4:12).
6. We are His children (Galatians 3:26). Hence, we are in His family, and should wear His name and no other.

BECOME AND REMAIN A TRUE CHRISTIAN!

WHAT MUST ONE DO TO KEEP SAVED?

A. This great question implies:

1. Man was once lost in sin.
2. That he has been saved.
3. There is a danger of falling.
4. Something must be done to remain saved.

B. There is a danger of falling.

1. Demas hath forsaken me . . .” (II Timothy 4:10).
2. Simon was commanded to repent and pray (Acts 8:22).
3. The last state was worse than the first (II Peter 2:20).

C. Christians have the power to stand.

1. Give all diligence and add the Christian graces (II Peter 1:5-10).
2. Make your calling and election sure (II Peter 1:10).
3. Then, “Ye shall never fall” (II Peter 1:10).

D. Four safe rules to follow:

1. Read the Bible daily. The Bereans were more noble than those in Thessalonica because they searched the scriptures daily (Acts 17:11). Newborn babes desire the sincere milk of the word that they may grow thereby (I Peter 2:2). The engrafted word will save (James 1:21). We will be judged by it (John 12:48).
2. Pray to God every day. Pray Without ceasing – have a regular time for prayer (Ephesians 6:18).
3. Attend all the services of the church. Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together (Hebrews 10:25). The disciples met upon the first day of the week.(Acts 20:7). Christians need this spiritual food.
4. Give liberally of time, talents and means. See I Corinthians 16:2 and 2 Cor. 9:7. “Where your treasure is there will your heart be also.”

MAKE IT AS SURE AS YOU CAN!

OUR RELATIONS ONE TO ANOTHER

A. Love one another.

1. “This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12).
2. “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35).
3. One cannot love God whom he hath not seen and hate his brother whom he hath seen (I John 4:20).

B. Bear one another’s burdens.

1. “Bear ye one another’s burdens [the crushing burden beyond one’s ability to carry, John Rose] and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2).
2. “For every man shall bear his own burden [any load one can carry, himself; John Rose]” (Galatians 6:5).
3. Each individual must bear his own responsibility to God.

One cannot obey God for another person. However, we can help one another bear the infirmities of the flesh.

C. Forgive one another.

1. "But if ye forgive not men their trespasses neither will your father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:15).
2. How often shall we forgive? Jesus said to Peter: “Until seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22).
3. “And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him” (Luke 17:4).

D. Pray for one another.

1. Paul said: “Brethren pray for us” (I Thessalonian 5:25).
2. “Confess your faults one to another and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16).
3. Samuel said: “God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you” (I Samuel 12:23).

LET US HELP ONE ANOTHER

(above adapted by John Rose from a tract)