New Site!

We are happy to announce that the Eimai Christianos blog has been relocated to a better and more user accessible site at http://thegospelisforall.wordpress.com.

It is my hope and prayer that the aim of this site will be better served under a new name that hopefully will better describe the purpose of the blog.  Our goal is to spread the Gospel, and I want to be sure we are advertising ourselves the best we can so that we can accomplish that goal.  I look forward to seeing you on our new site!

Kevin & the Eimai Christianos team

Are You Sound?

By: Bruce Higdon (Murfreesboro, TN)

If you asked that question several years ago, the answer might come back, “I’m as sound as a dollar.” Today, that might mean you are one step closer to the end.

But, ask yourself that question about your spiritual life. Do you feel good about yourself and your progress? Are you doing a good enough job? Or, do you need to give yourself a close examination of your condition?

Well, if the truth be told, we could all use a daily examination of just where we are in relationship to our walk with God. There are areas of our spirituality that need to checked, continuously, as we seek to grow and work in the service of God and Christ.

Let’s make a little checklist of some of these life-giving systems in our spiritual body:

1. Is our faith sound? Has it been scarred by false teachers, emotionalism, laziness, or worldly cares? “Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith.” (Tit. 1:13)

2. Is our love sound? Are we able to love only those who love us, or can the strength of our love allow us to forgive those who do and wish ill toward us? Are we actively praying for forgiveness for those things they might have done or said? Do we truly show our love for God by loving our fellow man, especially those of the household of faith? “Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness.” (Tit. 2:2)

3. Is our patience sound? As referenced in the previous section, is our steadfastness, or patience allowing us to progress in our spiritual growth? Patience is not just applied to situations with our friends or family. It is also necessary to apply it to patience in the faith that what God has said, He will do. What God has asked us to do, he will supply both opportunity and means, if we remain steadfast in patience and faith.

4. Is our speech sound? We live in an age where foul language is spoken at the drop of the hat. Language that is not only foul, but threatening, and angry is being learned by our younger folks and used openly toward parents and teachers, alike.

What about the speech we use, daily, about Jesus and God? Is it seasoned with meekness and knowledge? Or, is it weakened with political correctness to avoid discussions of doctrine that is contrary to the truth?

“Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” (Tit. 2:8)

“If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing.” (I Tim. 6:3, 4a)

5. Is our heart sound? What checkup would be complete without a look at the heart. Whatever may dwell within our secret heart is fully and openly displayed before God. “He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts.” (Luke 16:15a)

The wise man, Solomon gave wonderful advice for a strong, healthy heart, “Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.” (Prov. 23:12)

The reason for a humble, contrite heart that is willing to receive instruction is also noted, “A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.” (Prov. 14:30)

6. Is our doctrine sound? After everything else is strengthened and exercised, we must apply faith, love, patience, speech, and heart to teaching the doctrine of Christ in truth and sincerity. “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.” (2 Tim. 4:3, 4)

That sounds like the environment we live in, today, doesn’t it? Those seeking the office of elder are charged to ensure the gospel remains sound. “He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” (Tit. 1:9)

Preachers are commanded to keep the doctrine of Christ sound. “But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine.” (Tit. 2:1)

We, too, are commanded to keep ourselves and our doctrine sound, through study and application. If we weaken in any portion of our service, we fail as ministers of the gospel. “For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food” (Heb. 5:12)

May God continue to bless us with sound learning, understanding and teaching. And may He exercise us with abundant opportunity.

A Few Notable Chapters to Consider

By: Bruce Higdon
(adapted from a lesson by Don Martin)

The Old Testament contains 929 chapters. The New Testament contains 260 chapters. These are according to the literary division, in 1240 A.D., by a man named Hugo. While great wisdom is found in verse and book, some of these 1189 chapters contain great and wonderful instruction for Christians and Christian families

The Ten Commandment Chapter: Exo. 20. Here, the very foundation of God’s Law is laid out before Israel. Within the ten commandments are man’s duty to God and man’s duty to man. Out of the ten laws, four apply directly to God and six to man’s responsibility to man, vs. 3-8, 12-17, respectively. Nine of these laws are found in the New Testament with attendant spiritual amplification (Rom. 13; Jas. 2).

The Word of God Chapter. Psa. 119. “My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness,” declared the writer (vs. 172). It is in this Psalm that the following famous words are found: “How sweet are thy words unto my taste! Yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth. Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (vs. 103-105).

The Wisdom Chapter. Pro. 8. “For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it” (vs. 11). Wisdom is seen as available and inviting, above all, practical (vs. 2-18). The consequences of wisdom are wonderfully desirable, “My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver” (vs. 19).

The Beatitudes Chapter. Matt. 5. For example, “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” (vs. 4-7) The Sermon on the Mount (including chapter five) has been said to form a foundation to Jesus’ New Covenant as the Ten Commandments served to the Old Covenant.

The Marriage Chapter. I Corinthians 7. The chapter has seven topic divisions. They are: The rights and duties of married life (vs. 1-7), teaching for the unmarried (vs. 8, 9), commandments for the married (vs. 10-16, 12-16 addresses mixed marriages between believers and unbelievers), the principle of remaining in the same state (vs. 17-24), teaching regarding the unmarried, especially in view of the prevailing circumstances (vs. 25-35, see vs. 26), instructions to fathers in the “present distress” (vs. 36-38), and teaching regarding the marriage of widows (vs. 39, 40). Some of the teaching is influenced by the “present distress” (vs. 26).

The Love Chapter. I Corinthians 13. It is in this chapter that Paul presents the characteristics and accomplishments of true love. He also presents the lack of accomplishments of biblical love (vs. 4-8). Love is seen as active and producing good. Evil acts are not associated with true love. Love is an absolute necessity (vs. 1-3).

The Resurrection Chapter. I Corinthians 15. Christianity does not simply pertain to this life, Paul taught (vs. 19). However, the hope of another life rests on Jesus’ resurrection. “But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept,” Paul assures us (vs. 20). He also provides proof of Jesus’ resurrection (vs. 1 ff)

The Tongue Chapter. James 3. James starts out in specific references to the abuse of the tongue regarding false teaching (vs. 1). In view of the serious consequences of teaching error, James urges that few be teachers. He then appears to expand his teaching regarding the tongue to include more general matters.

The Fellowship Chapter. I Jno. 1. Fellowship is a vital Bible subject. Biblical fellowship is essentially approval and joint participation in spiritual matters. The Bible is explicit regarding those whom the Christian is to fellowship.

The teaching found in the Bible transcends all teaching known to man. The great teaching is explained by the nature of the Bible itself, inspired of God (2 Tim. 3: 16, 17). These are but a few chapter-length lessons on various aspects of the Christian life. Won’t you begin to read and search the scriptures, daily, and find more chapters of instruction for yourself and your family?

Two Kinds of Fear

By: Brian Walsh

In II Peter chapter 1, verse 3, Peter tells us that we can be partakers of “great and precious promises…”, escaping the corruption that is in the world. To do this we must be fruitful servants of our Lord Jesus Christ and diligently strive to build on our foundation of faith. One of the things that Peter tells us to add is self control. Let us take some time to study this idea.

What is self control? Rendered “temperance” in the KJV, the word means to exercise the power of one’s own will. The word in the Greek is enkrateia, which has the root word kratos, literally meaning strength. One who studies God’s word and seeks after knowledge can come to an understanding of what to do or not to do. However, it takes strength to control one’s will and to apply that knowledge in our lives. One may even argue that this is one of the most important characteristics a Christian should posses. We could be a great Bible scholar, but if we do not apply that knowledge it is useless. We could be a loving father or mother, but if we do not control our emotions we will set a bad example. We could be a young man or woman who is zealous in seeking after God, but if we cannot control our sexual desires we will be lost. In every situation we think of, a Christian without temperance places themself in a dangerous position. So, how do we foster self control in our lives?

It starts by realizing that this is a personal battle; one that will be won or lost based on your actions. “And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection…” (I Corinthians 9:25-27) In this passage Paul does not seek to avoid the race, nor pass it off to another. He understands what we must do if we are to obtain that imperishable crown. We must discipline our bodies and bring them under our control. What is interesting is that for the Christian, the way we control ourselves is to give our life to someone else. The only way to conquer the wants, desires and urges is to completely let God rule in life. “But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You our potter; and all we are the work of Your hand” (Isaiah 64:8). The Savior tells us in Mark 8:34 that to come after Him, we must first deny ourselves. We can no longer be slaves of sin leading unto death, but must become slaves of obedience! While self control is a personal battle God has promised to help us overcome if we will trust in Him, and look to the strength, encouragement and love that He has provided for us in His scriptures. When we look to those scriptures we find several characteristics that help us to control ourselves.

The first is a total commitment. We must be willing to pay whatever price and make whatever sacrifice is necessary to stand justified before God. We have to be totally committed because the task before us is great. God does not tell us to control ourselves some of the time, or to control just our actions, or to control ourselves when it is easy; He demands our all. He demands that we “bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ” (II Corinthians 10:5). When it comes to commitment we can look to the example of our Lord and Savior. In Matthew’s account we read that on the night He was betrayed Jesus was deeply distressed and sorrowful, knowing what He was about to endure. Despite this, He prayed to the Father, “O My Father, if it possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will” (Matthew 26:39). Is there any doubting the level of commitment that Jesus had? We must ask ourselves if we would be willing to do the same. When we are placed in a situation of temptation, far too many of us react like King David, instead of like Joseph. When Joseph was tempted by Potiphar’s wife he disregarded the pleasure of sleeping with his master’s wife. He was willing to sacrifice his status and position because he was totally committed. We often fall into the same trap that David did, and instead of fleeing temptation we indulge in it. Part of being totally committed is a willingness to sacrifice. “If your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut if off and cast it from you. It is better for you to enter into life lame or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet, to be cast into everlasting fire” (Matthew 18:8).

Something else that will help us is knowledge of our opponent. Athletes spend hours watching video and reading scouting reports on other teams and players. Why? So that they can know how to beat them! If a pitcher knows that a certain batter can’t catch up to a fastball, you can bet he’s going to give him a steady diet of fastballs. We too must know our opponent, and our opponent in this case is our own selves. “But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed” (James 1:14). If we want to control ourselves, we need to know how we are going to act or react in certain situations. Think about it, if you know you are tempted by alcohol and dancing ought you to spend your time at bars or parties? No. If you have a problem controlling your anger should you engage in an activity that might get you upset? No. If a young couple is having a hard time refraining from fornication, should they put themselves in a situation where they are alone together? No. Yet people do all of these day in and day out. If we will honestly look at ourselves and know our weaknesses, we will better control our lives and stay away from sin.

Finally, we must prepare ourselves for a life long battle with temptation. Self control must be a constant in our life, and it is going to take endurance and a willingness to follow through. One of the best ways to prepare ourselves for this battle is to develop good habits. Old or young, developing good habits will support us and give us a ready answer in the moment of trial. So many people expect to spontaneously find self control in a moment of strong temptation. What makes us think that we can live a life seeking our own pleasure, surrounding ourselves with any and every kind of ungodly influence, make no sacrifices to follow Christ, and then find an inner strength at a moment’s notice? It is not so brethren. Christ prepared for temptation by constant prayer and study of God’s word. That is why He was able to overcome when Satan himself challenged Him (Matthew 4:1-11). If we recognize that this is a personal battle that can be won with preparation, knowledge and the help of God, we can endure. We can control our lives when it comes to dating, finances, relationships with friends, marriage and parenthood. So brethren, “for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self control…” (II Peter 1:5,6).

Self Control

By: Brian Walsh (Murfreesboro, TN)

(This article was adapted from a lesson by Tim Richter)

In II Peter chapter 1, verse 3, Peter tells us that we can be partakers of “great and precious promises…”, escaping the corruption that is in the world. To do this we must be fruitful servants of our Lord Jesus Christ and diligently strive to build on our foundation of faith. One of the things that Peter tells us to add is self control. Let us take some time to study this idea.

What is self control? Rendered “temperance” in the KJV, the word means to exercise the power of one’s own will. The word in the Greek is enkrateia, which has the root word kratos, literally meaning strength. One who studies God’s word and seeks after knowledge can come to an understanding of what to do or not to do. However, it takes strength to control one’s will and to apply that knowledge in our lives. One may even argue that this is one of the most important characteristics a Christian should posses. We could be a great Bible scholar, but if we do not apply that knowledge it is useless. We could be a loving father or mother, but if we do not control our emotions we will set a bad example. We could be a young man or woman who is zealous in seeking after God, but if we cannot control our sexual desires we will be lost. In every situation we think of, a Christian without temperance places themself in a dangerous position. So, how do we foster self control in our lives?

It starts by realizing that this is a personal battle; one that will be won or lost based on your actions. “And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection…” (I Corinthians 9:25-27) In this passage Paul does not seek to avoid the race, nor pass it off to another. He understands what we must do if we are to obtain that imperishable crown. We must discipline our bodies and bring them under our control. What is interesting is that for the Christian, the way we control ourselves is to give our life to someone else. The only way to conquer the wants, desires and urges is to completely let God rule in life. “But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You our potter; and all we are the work of Your hand” (Isaiah 64:8). The Savior tells us in Mark 8:34 that to come after Him, we must first deny ourselves. We can no longer be slaves of sin leading unto death, but must become slaves of obedience! While self control is a personal battle God has promised to help us overcome if we will trust in Him, and look to the strength, encouragement and love that He has provided for us in His scriptures. When we look to those scriptures we find several characteristics that help us to control ourselves.

The first is a total commitment. We must be willing to pay whatever price and make whatever sacrifice is necessary to stand justified before God. We have to be totally committed because the task before us is great. God does not tell us to control ourselves some of the time, or to control just our actions, or to control ourselves when it is easy; He demands our all. He demands that we “bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ” (II Corinthians 10:5). When it comes to commitment we can look to the example of our Lord and Savior. In Matthew’s account we read that on the night He was betrayed Jesus was deeply distressed and sorrowful, knowing what He was about to endure. Despite this, He prayed to the Father, “O My Father, if it possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will” (Matthew 26:39). Is there any doubting the level of commitment that Jesus had? We must ask ourselves if we would be willing to do the same. When we are placed in a situation of temptation, far too many of us react like King David, instead of like Joseph. When Joseph was tempted by Potiphar’s wife he disregarded the pleasure of sleeping with his master’s wife. He was willing to sacrifice his status and position because he was totally committed. We often fall into the same trap that David did, and instead of fleeing temptation we indulge in it. Part of being totally committed is a willingness to sacrifice. “If your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut if off and cast it from you. It is better for you to enter into life lame or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet, to be cast into everlasting fire” (Matthew 18:8).

Something else that will help us is knowledge of our opponent. Athletes spend hours watching video and reading scouting reports on other teams and players. Why? So that they can know how to beat them! If a pitcher knows that a certain batter can’t catch up to a fastball, you can bet he’s going to give him a steady diet of fastballs. We too must know our opponent, and our opponent in this case is our own selves. “But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed” (James 1:14). If we want to control ourselves, we need to know how we are going to act or react in certain situations. Think about it, if you know you are tempted by alcohol and dancing ought you to spend your time at bars or parties? No. If you have a problem controlling your anger should you engage in an activity that might get you upset? No. If a young couple is having a hard time refraining from fornication, should they put themselves in a situation where they are alone together? No. Yet people do all of these day in and day out. If we will honestly look at ourselves and know our weaknesses, we will better control our lives and stay away from sin.

Finally, we must prepare ourselves for a life long battle with temptation. Self control must be a constant in our life, and it is going to take endurance and a willingness to follow through. One of the best ways to prepare ourselves for this battle is to develop good habits. Old or young, developing good habits will support us and give us a ready answer in the moment of trial. So many people expect to spontaneously find self control in a moment of strong temptation. What makes us think that we can live a life seeking our own pleasure, surrounding ourselves with any and every kind of ungodly influence, make no sacrifices to follow Christ, and then find an inner strength at a moment’s notice? It is not so brethren. Christ prepared for temptation by constant prayer and study of God’s word. That is why He was able to overcome when Satan himself challenged Him (Matthew 4:1-11). If we recognize that this is a personal battle that can be won with preparation, knowledge and the help of God, we can endure. We can control our lives when it comes to dating, finances, relationships with friends, marriage and parenthood. So brethren, “for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self control…” (II Peter 1:5,6).

“I Think…”

By: Brian Walsh (Murfreesboro, TN)

As our children grow older we often encourage them to think for themselves. We want them to understand that they do not have to do something simply because all of their friends are doing so. Our teachers in the schools promote creativity and reward students who “think outside the box”. Some of the greatest inventions have come about because men and women went against the conventions of their time and thought of a new and better way to do something. Our culture prizes innovation and rewards ingenuity. From the beginning, people have wanted to use this same approach when it comes to studying the Bible. They read the plain truth presented in the scripture only to say, “I know it says this, but I think it really means this…” After all, God did not create mindless automatons; He purposely made us different than the animals with the ability to think and reason (Gen. 1:26, 27). So why then is it wrong to apply this reasoning and interpret the scriptures to fit our lives today?

The first reason is that the scriptures are unlike earthly (man made) methods and ideas. A process for pasteurizing milk can always be improved because it is not yet perfect. A thoughtful man or woman with study has the ability make the process faster, cleaner, etc… The Bible however, is already perfect. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (II Tim. 3:16, 17). It is perfect because it has the power to make us complete and thoroughly equipped. Those words “complete”, “thoroughly”, and “every” are absolutes. If we are complete than no more can be added; if we are thoroughly equipped than we are given everything we need for any and all good works. No situation or circumstance is excluded, and all possibilities are accounted for.

Further, the Scriptures are perfect because they come from a perfect source. The word “inspiration” in the Greek is theopneustos, which means “God breathed”. While we recognize the various authors of the different books, we must understand that their writings are not their opinions or views. God did not give them the general idea with the liberty to express it as they wished. We are assured that every word and every thought is exactly as God would have it. “…that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” (II Pet. 1:20-21). In talking about the proper manner in which to partake of the Lord’s Supper Paul even said, “For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you…” (I Cor. 11:23). The scriptures we have come from God who is perfect, faithful, without darkness, and without change. That is why they were given to us “once for all” (Jude 3), there was no need for further change or revision.

Why then do men seek to interpret them differently today? Why is the “I think…” phrase found so often among our friends and even our brethren on issues of homosexuality, fornication, marriage and divorce, the instrument, etc…? So many today choose to “exchange the truth of God for the lie” (Rom. 1:25) because they feel it is easier. It allows them to justify their actions or those that they care about. However, that is not the answer. It may seem easier at the time, but the end result is a departure from God’s word, and a separation from Him. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Prov. 3:5-6).

A Sea Turtle More Valuable Than A Baby?

By: Jeremy Jones

On August 4, 1998 Franklin Reid was arrested and convicted of smuggling endangered sea turtle eggs into the United States. Reid was fined $250,000 and received a 5 year jail sentence for the infraction. The United States government cracks down hard on the destruction of endangered animals before they are born, yet since the landmark Roe V. Wade case in 1973 that legalized abortion, over 46 million American children have been aborted! Certainly God must be furious about this!

David says that God’s hand was with his growth and development since the moment he was conceived (Psa. 139:15-16). God had a plan for both Jeremiah (Jer. 1:5) and Paul (Gal. 1:15) even while they were still in the womb. God gave the death penalty for one who would accidentally cause the death of an unborn child (Ex. 21:22-25). The Bible teaches that children are a precious gift from the Lord (Psa. 127:3-5). Many in our society, however, look upon children as a burden or a problem. Some people refer to unintended pregnancies as “accidents” or “mistakes.” One of the main reasons for the destruction of Judah was the killing of their infants in sacrifice to their pagan gods (Jer. 7:30-31). In a sense, American society is killing many children in sacrifice to the “gods” of materialism and selfishness. One of the God’s most important requirements is that the innocent be protected, for He will plead their case (Prov. 22:22). Also, one of the things the Lord hates most is the shedding of innocent blood (Prov. 6:17).

So what is the Christian to do in a world that kills 1.6 million innocent babies every year? Blowing up abortion clinics and violent acts like this are certainly not the answer. The Lord commands that we all be subject to even the most wicked of governments (Rom. 13:1-8). Our Kingdom is not of this earth (Jn. 18:36) and our warfare is not of this world (2 Cor. 10:3-6). The Christian’s battle is spiritual and our weapons are words to bring down lofty ideas set against God’s commands. Christians have a duty to expose acts of darkness and tell their neighbors what the will of God is (Eph. 5:11).

Teaching about the importance of keeping a child instead of aborting him will lead to some children being born that can simply not be taken care of by the parents. Many people are quick to say that Christians cannot support orphans homes out of the church treasury (and rightfully so). Christians, however, have a divinely commanded obligation to take care of orphans (Jas. 1:27). Whether this means that one personally adopts a child, or whether they find other ways to help those who are adopting or otherwise taking care of orphans, Christians if possible HAVE to follow this command. How a nation takes care of its most helpless of citizens is an indicator of which direction God will take that nation in.

Unfortunately for now the Roe v. Wade decision will probably stand for many years to come. We live in a country that respects the rights of unborn sea turtle more than it does unborn human children. The only bright spot in this whole disgusting mess is that any child who dies is innocent and goes to Heaven (2 Sam. 12:23). Children who were unloved by their parents on earth will go to be in the arms of God who is love (1 Jn. 4:8). A baby is so much more valuable than a sea turtle and hopefully by the influence of Christians the world can start to see it that way!

The Homosexual Problem

By: Jeremy Jones

Modern society attempts to make homosexuality something as natural as the color of one’s skin. In the past any American would have laughed at the idea of legalized homosexual marriage, yet today 6 US states have legalized it. It started off being introduced by the civil rights movements of the 1960’s and 1970’s. The media then started portraying homosexuality in a funny and humorous way. Through the subtlety of humor and the persistence of homosexual supporters the practice of homosexuality has become almost normal in modern society. This is not how God wants it!

Marriage is God’s oldest institution, being defined by Him in the second chapter of the Bible. The first ceremony being between Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden with God as their witness (Gen. 2:21-25). The Hebrew writer says that the sanctity and purity of this relationship is to be respected by all (Heb. 13:4). Any time in Scripture that people were involved in homosexual behavior they violated the institution of marriage. God was not pleased and He judged them harshly. Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen. 19) were utterly destroyed because of their perverse lifestyle. The Law of Moses specifically forbade homosexuality and as punishment for it required the death penalty (Lev. 20:13). King Jehoshaphat removed all of the sodomites in his kingdom during his reign (1 Kgs. 22:46). The Old Testament is not unique in it’s condemnation of homosexuality. Paul tells the Christians in Rome that homosexuality is a perversion and is unnatural (Rom. 1:24-32).

So why all of the confusion in society today? God makes His thoughts on homosexuality explicitly clear. Some say that they are merely acting on the urges that they were born with. This argument doesn’t stand up. Being a child of God is all about denying the wrong kind of fleshly urges (Gal. 6:16-26). If this logic that is used to justify homosexuality is carried to its furthest conclusion, than why would rape, child molestation, or bestiality not be justified as well? Just because someone has an urge does not mean they have liberty to act on it. God was very particular about where He wanted sexual urges to be fulfilled…in a monogamous heterosexual marriage (1 Cor. 7:1-5)!

Some people say, “Well you can live your life how you want, and I can live mine how I want.” This attitude is contrary to the very nature of scripture though. Christians have a responsibility to preach the truth even when it isn’t popular (2 Tim. 3:16- 4:5). As children of light, Christians have a responsibility to expose and speak out against all forms of darkness (Eph. 5:6-13).

So what is a follower of Christ to do about the serious problem of homosexuality? Christians should avoid humor and jokes that poke fun at homosexuality. Many comedy shows and sitcoms treat this serious sin like it is something to be laughed at. Christians also need to avoid going to the other extreme and making homosexuality into some sort of “unpardonable sin.” Many of the Corinthian brethren had been homosexual at one time and had reformed their lives and repented to come back to God (1 Cor. 6:9-11). Jesus died to save homosexuals as much as He did any other sinners. The blood of Christ can wash away the sins of anyone who truly makes a change in their life. Let us be lights to the world even as it is becoming harder to speak against the sin of homosexuality. This problem will not go away any time soon and the Gospel needs to be preached everywhere so that those practicing homosexuality have a chance to be saved.

Note from the Editor:
Jeremy has discussed a topic in this article that is a very popular subject in our modern times.  It is a topic that Christians are loosening up on and compromising.  Jeremy has made it clear that God’s law is not compromised.  Homosexuality is a sin that is a fulfillment in fleshly lusts just like rape, child molestation, pornography, and beastiality…but sadly our society has diminished the shame and the evil of this type of behavior.  Study this topic against God’s word and see if you don’t come to the same conclusion.

The Good Things

By: Bruce Higdon (Murfreesboro, TN)

“Your iniquities have turned away these things, and your sins have withholden good things from you.” (Jer. 5:25)

Throughout man’s short history, God has sought to give us only the good things in life. Beginning in the garden, man was pampered with the finest of living conditions spoken into being by the Creator. God even saw loneliness in man’s life and created woman to provide a help suitable for him.

Yet, all of paradise could not stop man’s heart from searching for something better. In man’s neglect of the good things from God, he inevitably lost Eden, and gained a terrible burden to be carried from generation to generation, until Perfection was given to man in the form of Jesus the Christ.

The book of Revelation tells us that Paradise will be restored to the man who overcomes the evil in this life. Once again, the Tree of Life, or eternal life, will be restored to the saints who are victorious. With the burden of sin being lifted through Christ, we must begin to, once again, recognize and embrace the good things God has set before us:

To be with the Lord: “And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good that we are here.” (Matt. 17:4a)

To establish our hearts: “Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace.” (Heb. 13:9a)

To draw near to God: “But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.” (Psa. 73:28)

To dwell in unity: “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!” (Psa. 133:1)

To be afflicted: “It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes.” (Psa. 119:71)

To hope: “It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.” (Lam. 3:26)

To give thanks: “It is good to give thanks to the LORD, to sing praises to your name, O Most High.” (Psa. 92:1)

To sing praises: “Praise the LORD! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and a song of praise is fitting.” (Psa. 147:1)

To fear God and keep His commandments: “The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” (Ecc. 12:13)

To rejoice and do good: “I perceived that there is nothing better for them than to be joyful and to do good as long as they live; “ (Ecc. 3:12)

To maintain good works: “The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people.” (Tit. 3:8)

To overcome the world and enter into eternal life: “And if your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life crippled or lame than with two hands or two feet to be thrown into the eternal fire. And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into the hell of fire.” (Matt. 18:8, 9)

Most certainly, if the world were to fill out a list of good things, very few of the above would make it to the paper. The world sees temporary power, wealth, and glory as the only good things worth pursuing.

But those of us who yearn for that which is truly good remember the words of Peter, quoting David (Psa. 34:12-16): “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” (I Pet. 3:10-12)

The good things that lead to eternal life must be sought. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.” (Matt. 6:33a) Once they are found, we need to hold on to them. “Hold fast what is good.” (I Thes. 5:21)

Fight on, fellow soldiers! The very best is yet to come. “No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever. Jesus Is Coming and he said to me, “These words are trustworthy and true. And the Lord, the God of the spirits of the prophets, has sent his angel to show his servants what must soon take

Wait on the Lord

By: Brian Walsh (Murfreesboro, TN)

Waiting can be such a negative thing in our day and time. Minutes feel like hours to little children awaiting Christmas or their birthday. Adults dread the lines at grocery stores and the time spent sitting in the doctor’s office. The thought of sending a letter through the mail and waiting a week or more for a response has become foreign to us. We even become upset when someone does not have a cell phone and we cannot instantly contact them! Our attitudes and even our technology reflect a lack of patience in our lives. However, if as humble servants of our Lord we wish to be “mature and complete, lacking nothing” we must “let patience have its perfect work” (James 1:3).

So how can we let patience have its perfect work? First, we must realize that being patient is not just an option. Often, we commend those that are and simply dismiss those that are not as being strong willed, “go-getters”, or driven. Some are even praised when we laud their hard nosed tactics and ability to get what they want when they want it. We excuse a lack of patience in our youth by assuming that they will somehow grow into it or acquire it as they grow older and settle down. The Lord presents a very different idea in the scriptures when He seeks to impress upon us just how important patience is, “By your patience, possess your souls” (Lk. 21:19). In the first chapter of II Peter he lists several things that with all diligence we must add to our faith, among them patience. After writing that these things will make us fruitful he continues, “But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins” (II Pet. 1:9). A lack of patience is far more than a character flaw and something that we must diligently seek to fix!

But how do we become more patient? It helps to look to the perfect example of patience; God. Paul refers to Him as “the God of patience…” (Rom. 15:5) and we can see that truly is the case. God’s longsuffering is evidenced time and again in the Old Testament in His dealing with the children of Israel. He would rescue them from captivity or destruction only to watch them turn aside to worship lifeless, powerless idols. They would fall away and He would send them the judges or the prophets to bring them back. It is much the same with us today. We sin and separate ourselves from God, yet He is always there to rejoice at our return. We may boldly proclaim His word one week and the next doubt His power or love; and yet He is still there for us. No matter how many times we disappoint Him, His love and His patience is greater than our weakness. When we look to this perfect example of patience we see that the bar is set high for us, yet we have no excuse but to strive to attain unto it.

As we realize that God is patience it may help us to understand the rewards of waiting upon Him. In our efficiency driven world, waiting often equals wasted time, or time not spent working. However, we must change this mentality and begin to think in God’s time; not ours. When we wait on Him, and allow our lives to unfold according to His plan, in His time, we can experience the blessings that come from Him and Him alone. We can experience strength and a peace that is uniquely from God if we would but trust in Him. The Psalmist wrote, “Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait I say on the Lord!” (Ps. 27:14). “To You, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God I trust in You; let me not be ashamed; let not my enemies triumph over me. Indeed let no one who waits on You be ashamed…You are the God of my salvation; on You I will wait all the day” (Ps. 25:1-5). Let us make a determined effort as soldiers of the cross to patiently wait on Him, and trust that the God of patience will provide for us, bless us, and save us in the Day of Judgment.