November 2013 – Seek The Old Paths 81

Vol. 24, No. 11 November 2013 BIBLICAL AUTHORITY Stephen Wiggins

uke begins his Gospel account by it is sinful to deviate from what God biblically oriented. We believe God referring to “those things which instructs his church to do. We believe offers divine direction by what he Lare most surely believed among worship “must” be “in truth” or it is revealed and wrote down through his us” (Luke 1:1). Of “those things” unacceptable to God (John 4:24). God apostles and prophets. God left noth - believed by God’s people today, one is said to “sing” and “make melody” with ing out of the Bible that we need to that churches of Christ believe we the instrument of the “heart” and that believe or obey today in order to must have biblical authority for what is exactly what the faithful in the become and remain a faithful Chris - we do and say in worship (cf. Col. 3:17, Lord’s church do. tian. All the information one needs i.e., we must have book, chapter and Many who fail to appreciate this pertaining to life and godliness is con - verse). For example, the Bible author - principle of authority will reply that tained within Scripture (1 Peter 1:3). izes the weekly observance of the the Bible nowhere explicitly prohibits There are no exceptions. The entirety Lord’s Supper along with the Giving of mechanical instruments in worship. In of God’s revelation has already been our financial means every first day of other words, the Bible never says “you revealed. This is what is commonly the week (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:1-2). shall not use a piano in worship.” But called the “all sufficiency” of the Scrip - Another example of worship that is this line of argumentation misses the tures. This concept is based on pas - biblically authorized is when Scripture significance of HOW the Bible author - sages like 2 Timothy 3:16-17 where we directs us in “speaking one to another” izes. God does not have to explicitly for - learn that the inspired Scriptures are by “singing and making melody in bid something for it to be wrong. The able to render one complete in the sight your heart to the Lord” (Eph. 5:19). fact that he does not authorize a par - of God. Here, the Bible authorizes congrega - ticular act is enough. For example, God Consequently, churches of Christ tional singing within the weekly wor - nowhere specifically condemns Pepsi today do not claim to have any inspired ship assemblies. How else could the and Pizza for the Lord’s Supper, but apostles or prophets among us. There entire church “speak one to another” in such would be a presumptuous addi - are no miraculously endowed preach - song? Another consideration is that tion to his word and therefore sinful. ers as there were in the first century the Bible authorizes a cappella Why? Because the only elements church during the time in which God singing. This means singing without authorized for Communion is “unleav - was revealing his truth to mankind. the accompaniment of mechanical ened bread” and “fruit of the vine” Divine inspiration in men and instruments of music such as a piano (Matt. 26:26-29; Luke 22:14-20; 1 Cor. miracle working preachers no longer or guitar. The Bible authorizes the 11:23-29). Churches of Christ apply exists among God’s people. Further - “instrument” to be used when inspira - this same reasoning to music in wor - more, we believe that those who make tion tells us to make meolody with ship. God said to make melody with the modern claim to be inspired “your heart.” Notice that the music is your heart by “speaking” and “singing” prophets or miracle workers are fakes to come from the inner, spiritual part in worship to the Lord. This is what who are practicing deception. We do of an individual and not from a man- the Bible authorizes. Any kind of not believe they can substantiate their made instrument. music in worship other than “a cappel - claims by working a genuine miracle The practical application of this la” is without biblical authority. like the apostles in the first century Biblical principle is that churches of Churches of Christ believe God did. Our conviction in this regard is Christ do not employ mechanical speaks to mankind today throughout based on such passages as 1 Corinthi - instruments of music in worship. This the inspired Scriptures. There is no ans 13:8-10 where Paul speaks of the is a matter of Biblical authority. It is other way in which he relates his will time when miraculous activity would taught in the Scriptures; and, there - except through this written medium. (Continued on page 87) fore commonly believed among us that Therefore, churches of Christ are very Biblical Authority … 82 Seek The Old Paths – November 2013

that “God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him” (Acts 10:34-35). In Romans 2:4 we read, “Or despisest thou the riches of his good - DESPISE YE THE CHURCH OF GOD ? ness and forbearance and longsuffer - Garland M. Robinson ing; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?” In 2 Peter 3:15 we are to “account that the espite the belief of many, the among the number who reject Jesus longsuffering of our Lord is salva - church is not outdated. It the Christ, the Lord and Savior. We tion....” Every day that God delays Dnever has been nor ever will must not cause hurt and trouble in his coming in judgment is another be. The church of Christ is the beau - the body of Christ. However, in I day that the ungodly have to repent tiful bride of Christ (Rev. 21:2; Eph. Corinthians 11:22 , we read about and obey the Gospel. We surely must 5:22-32). It is the pillar and ground of how even brethren can do so. The not despise God’s goodness. the truth (1 Tim. 3:15). The Lord’s church at Corinth was struggling First Timothy 4:12 says, “Let church is the body of Christ (Eph. with a number of problems, one of no man despise thy youth; but be 1:22-23; Col. 1:18). Our beloved Sav - which was their abuse of the Lord’s thou an example of the believers, in ior, Jesus the Christ, is the owner and supper by turning it into a common word, in conversation, in charity, in head of the church (Matt. 16:18-19). meal and not allowing the participa - spirit, in faith, in purity.” I have been The church of Christ was purchased tion of all the brethren. As a result, so treated in times past and person - with His own blood (Acts 20:28). It is we read verse 22, “What? have ye not ally know of others that have as well. the eternal kingdom of God (Matt. houses to eat and to drink in? or Truth is truth, whether it comes from 16:18-19; cf. Eph. 3:10-11). despise ye the church of God, and the mouth of babes or from a wise old It is through the church of Christ shame them that have not? What soldier of the cross. Some try to belit - that God has chosen to make known shall I say to you? shall I praise you tle any statement from the young his manifold (multiplied) wisdom in this? I praise [you] not.” saying “they are not old enough” or (Eph. 3:10). What a blessing it is to be What a terrible thing of which to “you will learn better when you get a member of God’s eternal kingdom, be guilty — despising the church older.” The false teachers and ungod - the church. Countless numbers of of God (1 Cor. 1:2; the church of ly members of the church do this people have enjoyed the blessings of Christ, Rom. 16:16)! The Greek word when they are confronted with the being “in Christ” (Eph. 1:3). That translated “despise” (kataphroneo) truth. They always try to find some same number know what it is to be appears nine times in the New Testa - way to circumvent “the right way.” made free from the law of sin and ment. Thayer says it means “to con - First Timothy 6:2, “And they death (Rom. 8:2). Those under the tempt, despise, disdain, think little or that have believing masters, let them altar “cried out with a loud voice, say - nothing of” (p.338). Vine says, “to not despise [them], because they are ing, How long, O Lord, holy and true, think down upon or against anyone, brethren; but rather do [them] serv - doest thou not judge and avenge our hence, signifies to think slightly of” ice, because they are faithful and blood on them that dwell on the (p.301). Strong’s says, “to think beloved, partakers of the benefit. earth?” (Rev. 6:10). against, disesteem.” These things teach and exhort.” Ser - These are but a few verses that Jesus used the word in Matthew vants (slaves) were commanded to could be cited to point toward the 6:24 when he said, “No man can not despise their masters because church of our Lord. However, there serve two masters: for either he will they are fellow servants (slaves) of are those in every generation who hate the one, and love the other; or God. care little to nothing about the body else he will hold to the one, and Hebrews 12:2, “Looking unto of Christ. It was no different in the despise the other. Ye cannot serve Jesus the author and finisher of [our] first century. There were those who God and mammon.” A parallel faith; who for the joy that was set refused to listen to the Gospel, think - account of this verse is found in before him endured the cross, despis - ing it was foolishness to speak of the Luke 16:13. ing the shame, and is set down at the resurrection of one from the dead It is used in Matthew 18:10 right hand of the throne of God.” The (Acts 17:32). John 12:42-43 records where Jesus said, “Take heed that ye world counts many things as shame - that “among the chief rulers also despise not one of these little ones; for ful, but to the child of God, we are many believed on him; but because of I say unto you, That in heaven their happy to endure suffering and the Pharisees they did not confess angels do always behold the face of ridicule for the cause of Christ. We [him], lest they should be put out of my Father which is in heaven.” The feel sorry for the worldly who don’t the synagogue: For they loved the “little ones” no doubt refers to anyone know the truth in Christ Jesus. We praise of men more than the praise of who has become a child of God. We must be more concerned about what God.” There were even many of the must never look down upon an indi - the Lord thinks than what the world Lord’s disciples who “went back, and vidual who is obedient to “the faith.” thinks. walked no more with him” (John Through the ages, racism has been a Second Peter 2:10, “But chiefly 6:66). problem in some areas. This should them that walk after the flesh in the Our purpose and goal is to not be never be! Peter revealed to Cornelius lust of uncleanness, and despise gov - November 2013 – Seek The Old Paths 83 ernment. Presumptuous [are they], is understandable, but from within, it the church and count as nothing that selfwilled, they are not afraid to is reprehensible and intolerable! We holy calling wherein we were called speak evil of dignities.” Christians are never to despise that which God (2 Tim. 1:9). Woe unto the individual are commanded to respect govern - has given. When we do, we stand that despises the church of God! ment and authority, not look down on against Him. We bring reproach upon it. “The powers that be are ordained of God” (Rom. 13:1). The law enforce - ment agencies are for our protection. “He is a minister of God to thee for good...a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil” (Rom. OVERCOMING DEPRESSION 13:4). We must never despise author - never cease to be amazed how easily, and under what circumstances, ity or those in authority. depression sets in upon the child of God. Elijah experienced depres - Let’s think of some who sion shortly after his victory over the 450 prophets of Baal (1 Kings “despised” the church in the first cen - I 18). One would think that following such a wonderful “high” he would tury. have been able to dwell on the mountain for the foreseeable future. But Demas left the church “having such was not the case. loved this present world” (2 Tim. Once upon a time there was a man who felt he’d reached the end of 4:10). All today who forsake the his rope. It seemed that all interest had vanished from his life. His old Lord’s church likewise despise, hold friend, the family doctor, saw his depression and said, “Alright, you must in low esteem, the precious body of do exactly as I tell you. I want you to find a lonely stretch of beach and Christ. “...It had been better for them spend all day at the shore. Take nothing to read. I’m going to give you not to have known the way of right - four prescriptions. Take the first one at nine, the second one at twelve, eousness, than, after they have the third at three, and the last at six. Don’t look at them now. Wait until known [it], to turn from the holy com - you arrive at the shore.” Arriving a little before nine, he parked his car mandment delivered unto them” (2 on a lonely stretch of beach, walked to a sand dune and sat down. He Peter 2:21). opened prescription number one and read it. It said, “Listen.” And so for There were those such as three hours that’s all he did. He listened to the song of the buffeting wind Hymenaeus and Alexander who and the lonely cries of the gulls. At noon he read the second prescription. blasphemed the precious name It said, “Reach back.” And so for the next three hours he let his mind go wherein they were called (1 Tim. back as far as it could, and thought of all the incidents of his life — the 1:20). There were others who taught happy times, good times, struggles, and successes. At three o’clock he tore false doctrine (just like many today) open the third prescription. It read, “Re -examine your motives.” He such as Hymenaeus and Philetus : thought through his reasons for living, clarifying and stating his goals. “who concerning the truth have erred, Finally, at six o’clock, under a grey, darkening sky and with a taste of salt saying that the resurrection is past in the wind, he read the fourth and final prescription. It read, “Write already...” (2 Tim. 2:17-18). We must your worries in the sand.” And so he did. Within a short period of time he not forget Diotrephes who was rep - watched as those worries were washed away by the tide. The young man resented as being resentful of inspi - turned homeward with a renewed attitude. ration’s authority and as “loving to I wonder how often we allow the circumstances around us to chip have the preeminence” (3 John 9-10). away at our faith and lead us down the path into depression. If you are There are many who think of them - suffering from depression, may I make a couple of suggestions? Unplug selves as “somewhat” (Gal. 2:6). The your TV for 30 days. Dwell on things that are good, things that are of good book condemns those who think good report, and things that will restore your confidence in God and His they are above others (Rom. 2:11). providential watch care over us. Focus on that wonderful promise in There were scores of others who Hebrews 13:5: “[Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] cared little or nothing about the content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave church of our Lord. There was the thee, nor forsake thee.” There are no less than four keys contained within man who had his father’s wife (1 that passage for defeating depression. First, “Be free from the love of Cor. 5). Fortunately, after being disci - money.” Mammon is not your master; Christ is! Second, be content with plined, he repented and was restored such things as ye have. The mad race for things has destroyed the faith to fellowship (2 Cor. 2). There was of many a man and plunged him into despair and destruction. Third, Simon who tried to buy the power of remember that God will not fail thee. This speaks of our Father’s power laying on of hands to impart spiritu - and ability to care for us. Finally, remember that God will not forsake al gifts (Acts. 8:18-19). Even the apos - you. This speaks of His will to care for you. tle Peter at one time sinned in refus - If you are depressed, discouraged, disappointed, or simply down and ing to eat (fellowship) with the Gen - out, take some time to mediate on the word of God. Therein lies the tiles (Gal. 2:11-14). Ananias and power for overcoming depression. Sapphira despised the church when Tom Wacaster they lied about their giving in Acts PO Box 8733 5:1-11. Ft. Worth, TX 76124 All of the above were members of the church. Opposition from without 84 Seek The Old Paths – November 2013

RESTORATION IS POSSIBLE Victor M. Eskew

y inspiration, the apostle Paul believed that if the New Testament inquire of the Lord for me, and for the prophesied that the church (as were closely followed, the church of people, and for all Judah, concerning Bit was in the first century) the first century could be reproduced. the words of this book that is found: would fall away from the truth. To There are some who are skepti - for great is the wrath of the Lord that the elders of Ephesus, he spoke these cal about restoration. They are not is kindled against us, because our words: “For I know this, that after my certain that the restoration of the fathers have not hearkened unto the departing shall grievous wolves enter early church is really possible. We words of this book, to do according in among you, not sparing the flock. want to show that restoration of the unto all that which is written con - Also of your own selves shall men first century church is possible today. cerning us” (2 Kings 22:11-13). arise, speaking perverse things, to Our study is going to take us back In these words to his advisors, draw away disciples after them” into the Old Testament. We will Josiah sets forth the simple princi - (Acts 20:29-30). This same church examine something that happened ples of restoration: HEED and DO was again warned of a falling away during the reign of one of the kings of the words of the book of the law. In in Paul’s first letter to Timothy. “Now Judah, King Josiah. chapter 23 of II Kings, the restora - the Spirit speaketh expressly that in The days of the kings were not tion process is carried out. All that the latter times some shall depart the glory days of Israel. The northern was corrupt and vile and sinful was from the faith, giving heed to seduc - kingdom had no righteous kings to destroyed. The evil was replaced with ing spirits, and doctrines of devils” (1 reign over them. The southern king - the things found in the law of God. Tim. 4:1). The church in Thessalonica dom only had a handful of kings that Josiah’s efforts at restoration are had also been warned of a great served God. Most of the time, the concluded with these words: “...that falling away. “Let no man deceive you Law of Moses was set aside and the he might perform the word of the law by any means: for that day shall not worship of false gods was promoted. which were written in the book that come, except there come a falling The temple in Jerusalem stood, but it Hilkiah the priest found in the house away first, and that man of sin be was in need of major repairs. Worship of the Lord” (2 Kings 22:24b). Josiah revealed, the son of perdition; who was perverted. The sacrifices were performed the word of the law. When opposeth and exalteth himself above perverted. The Feast Days were this happens, restoration takes place. all that is called God, or that is wor - ignored. The priesthood was corrupt - Is restoration in any generation shipped; so that he as God sitteth in ed. There was hardly any part of the possible? Yes. The reign of King Josi - the temple of God, shewing himself Law of Moses that was carried out ah in Judah is proof that it can be that he is God” (2 Thess. 2:3-4). during the times of apostasy. done. Had Moses been resurrected A study of church history reveals When Josiah took his position as from the grave in the days of Josiah, that the departure did come. The king at the age of eight years old (2 he would have recognized, appreciat - writings of the “church fathers” in Kings 22:1), he gave orders for ed, and commended the efforts of this the second and third centuries reveal repairs to be made to the temple (2 righteous king. He would have been some strange teachings that began to Kings 22:4-6). During this time, proud that the temple was restored, surface within the body of Christ. Hilkiah the high priest found the the priesthood was reestablished, the Many of the things did not reflect the book of the law in the house of God (2 Passover was implemented, and all teachings of the New Testament at Kings 22:8). It had been some fifty- the elements of the law were being all. The culmination of the apostasy seven years since a righteous king practiced. Moses would have told was the formation of the Roman had reigned in Israel. The practice of Josiah: “You have truly restored the Catholic Church. This church was the Law of Moses had been complete - law!” both a religious group and a political ly set aside. If God’s law was going to In the late 1,700s and early establishment. The Catholic Church be followed, there would have to be a 1,800s, a restoration movement established itself both by teaching restoration in Judah. began to arise in the religious world. and by force throughout the world. Hilkiah gave the book of the law The men who headed this movement After some 1,100 years of tyran - to Shaphan the scribe. He, in turn, knew that the Law of Christ had ny and oppression in the religious took it, and read it unto king Josiah. been set aside for many many years. world, men began to see that the “And it came to pass, when the king Men had given ear to the Pope of Catholic Church and the New Testa - had heard the words of the book of the Rome and to the creed books of ment did not harmonize. At first, law, that he rent his clothes. And the denominations. These men, like Josi - there was a call for reformation. king commanded Hilkiah the priest, ah, understood the need to go back to Eventually, it was seen that a and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and the original document, the Law of restoration was needed. Many Achbor the son of Michaiah, and God, the Bible. One of their cries was: desired to restore the church of the Shaphan the scribe, and Asahiah a “Back to the Bible!” Another motto Bible to its original condition. It was servant of the king’s, saying, Go ye, was: “Where the Bible speaks, we will November 2013 – Seek The Old Paths 85 speak; where the Bible is silent, we are silent.” They were convinced that WHAT KIND OF CHURCH ATTENDER ARE YOU ? if they heard and obeyed the words of the New Testament, the original Jerry Joseph church of the first century would be nd let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works; Not restored. They, like Josiah, labored diligently to do this. Thankfully, the forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; church found in the pages of God’s “A but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as ye see the day Word can be easily found today. That approaching” (Heb. 10:24-25). church, dear reader, is the church of There are some in the church who believe it is not important to attend worship Christ. services. For them, attending church services are good if there is not anything else Let us close this article with two to do or someplace else to visit or some other activity to engage in. With some, as verses from God’s Word. One is from long as they show up occasionally or especially on Sunday morning, that is all that the Old Testament. The other is from really counts. the New Testament. Both of these Let us realize that even when we attend as we should, we must do so with the verses set forth the concepts needed right purpose, motive and attitude. You see, if our motive and attitude are not for restoration. “To the law and to the right, then it matters not how many worship services we may attend. testimony: if they speak not according It is evident that our attitude toward God, His Word and Worship itself will to this word, it is because there is no determine the kind of “attender” we’ll be. What kind of attender are you? Are you light in them” (Isa. 8:20). And again: a... “If any man speak, let him speak as 1) Special occasion attender? Some believe that whenever there is a spe - the oracles of God” (1 Peter 4:11). cial occasion, a holiday, etc., that’s the time to be in attendance. To them, other reg - 13695 Covington Creek Dr. ular times for worship services are not important. Jacksonville, FL 32224 2) Seasonal attender? This attitude toward attendance is that it depends on the season of the year. If it is “camping season”, “deer-hunting season”, “baseball season”, “football season”, etc., then being in attendance for the services is not as important. These so-called “seasons” should never hinder us from being faithful to CONTRIBUTIONS the Lord, including the attendance of the services. Thomas Newberry ...... $50 Linda Shanks ...... $50 3) Spasmodic attender? Some come for a while, then miss for a while. With Anonymous ...... $125 them, this becomes a way of life. You can never rely or depend upon them to take Harold Langley ...... $25 an active part in the work of the church. Bettye Lane ...... $20 4) Suit-your-self attender? These attend only when it “suits them” and it Anonymous ...... $70 Anonymous ...... $50 does not interfere with doing something else they want to do. To them, attending Joe C. Turbeville ...... $48 the services is not a spiritual priority. Thurman Bennett ...... $100 5) Sunday morning only attender? These do not see the need for Sunday Larry & Debbie Kirby ...... $200 Gregory Rd. C/C, Columbus, MS ...... $100 night or Wednesday night services; and, most of the time, Sunday morning Bible Del Brantley ...... $50 class either. They think like the old Brylcream commercial, “a little dab will do Arlington C/C, McMinnville, TN ...... $50 you.” They are the ones who are always asking, “How many services do I have to Mrs. W. T. Wall ...... $150 Dortha Johnson ...... $20 attend?” Their attitude of mind is “how little can I do and get by with it?” Tommy Muirhead ...... $50 6) Seeking-a-companion attender? These only attend services seeking Victor Gonzales ...... $20 someone they can date and perhaps eventually marry. So, when they visit a con - Mrs. Earl Webb ...... $20 Anonymous ...... $100 gregation and no one is available, then they will move on to another congregation. Anonymous ...... $75 They are not seeking the Truth and the Lord, neither are they looking for a place Baker C/C, Baker, FL ...... $25 where they can worship scripturally and be blessed spiritually, but they’re just Berea C/C, Rock Island, TN ...... $100 looking for a companion. That is their only motive for attending services. Wood C/C, Woodbury, TN ...... $50 C. L. Williams ...... $25 7) Sleeping attender? These use the worship services as a time to catch up Anonymous ...... $25 on their sleep that they didn’t get the night before. They did not use that time to Jean Ware ...... $40 prepare themselves to worship God acceptably on Sunday morning. To them, wor - North Pickens C/C, Reform, AL ...... $25 Marian Tillman ...... $25 ship services are not valuable and vital to their spiritual well -being. Clear Creek C/C, Corinth, MS ...... $50 8) Sorehead attender? These enter the church building “mad” and “upset” Anonymous ...... $10 and are just waiting for someone to say or do something they can attack and then Anonymous ...... $30 Anonymous ...... $25 they are ready to give them “a piece of their mind.” They don’t want to participate In memory of Jim Coffey ...... $20 in worship nor anything else that might help them spiritually. They are in the Anonymous ...... $100 “kick-a-tive mood.” They feel compelled to try to stir-up trouble. Jesse O. Cruz ...... $50 Bradford C/C, Bradford, TN ...... $100 Do you see yourself among any of these groups? If so, change your attitude and Tiftonia C/C, Chattanooga, TN ...... $100 action, “Repent!” Yes, it is sinful to willfully forsake the services of the church (Heb. Berea C/C, Rives, TN ...... $100 10:24-25); and, it is sinful to not have the proper motive and attitude (John 4:24). Jackson St. C/C, Alexandria, LA ...... $100 When our actions and attitudes toward church attendance are not right, we Beginning Balance ...... $9,011.97 demonstrate a lack of love for God, for the Word of God, for the church, for ourselves Contributions ...... $2,373.00 and others (John 14:15; Heb. 10:24 -26; Col. 3:1-3; Rev. 22:14; 2 Peter 3:18). Debits Let us develop an attitude of mind as David, when he said, “I was glad when Postage ...... $ 1,878.02 Supplies ...... $460.83 they said unto me, Let us go unto the house of the Lord” (Psa. 122:1). Ending Balance ...... $9,046.12 PO Box 1385, St. Peters, MO 63376 86 Seek The Old Paths – November 2013 PAUL ’S PREACHING IN THESSALONICA Roger D. Campbell

robably a little less than twenty preaching the Gospel (Acts “they were cut to the heart” and killed years after the Lord established 8:4,5,14,25,35). Preaching the Christ him (Acts 7:51 -60). Let us never apol - PHis church on Pentecost, the means preaching what the Bible says ogize for the soul -saving truth, even apostle Paul, accompanied by other about Him, but it also includes when people become angry at the mes - disciples, went to the European city of preaching the message that comes sage, the messenger, or the Almighty Thessalonica and preached the from Him about what one must do in source of the message. Gospel. The history of their work there order to become and remain a saved Consider these points about is recorded in the early portion of Acts person. When you read the Book of preaching the Gospel causing an 17. Hear the message of the first six Acts, you never find the apostles uproar: Preaching one God stirs the verses: “Now when they had passed preaching themselves. Here was idolater and atheist. Preaching divine through Amphipolis and Apollonia, Paul’s outlook: “For we preach not our - creation stirs the evolutionists. they came to Thessalonica, where was selves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and Preaching immortality stirs the mate - a synagogue of the Jews: And Paul, as ourselves your servants for Jesus’ rialists. Preaching the authority of his manner was, went in unto them, sake” (2 Cor. 4:5). Scriptures stirs the modernist. and three sabbath days reasoned with 3) Some who heard Paul’s preach - Preaching one church stirs the denom - them out of the scriptures, Opening ing believed, while others did not inationalists. Preaching on love stirs and alleging, that Christ must needs believe (Acts 17:4,5). Seldom is it the those who hate. Preaching the head - have suffered, and risen again from case that all of those in a particular ship of the Christ stirs the Catholic. the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I crowd that hear the word obey it. “The Preaching on liquor stirs the drunk - preach unto you, is Christ. And some rule” for people’s response to Gospel ard/social drinker. Preaching on mod - of them believed, and consorted with preaching is summarized in Acts esty stirs the immodest. Preaching on Paul and Silas; and of the devout 28:24: “And some believed the things work stirs the lazy. Preaching on Greeks a great multitude, and of the which were spoken, and some believed attendance stirs the neglectful. chief women not a few. But the Jews not.” Yes, we are well aware that not Preaching on proper speech stirs the which believed not, moved with envy, all hearers become obedient believers. gossiper. Preaching on faithfulness took unto them certain lewd fellows of Jesus’ parable of the sower reminds us stirs the unfaithful. Preaching on ded - the baser sort, and gathered a compa - of this fact (Luke 8:4 -15). Let us ication stirs the uncommitted. Preach - ny, and set all the city on an uproar, remember, however, that we never ing on giving stirs the covetous. and assaulted the house of Jason, and know in advance which hearers will Preaching on honesty stirs the hyp - sought to bring them out to the people. receive the word of the Lord and ocrite. Preaching on morality stirs the And when they found them not, they which ones will not receive the word of immoral. [borrowed from “Banner of drew Jason and certain brethren unto the Lord. Let us work diligently to get Truth” 5/11/2003] the rulers of the city, crying, These folks to hear “the words of eternal life” 5) By preaching God’s truth, Paul that have turned the world upside (John 6:68). It will then be up to them and his fellow -laborers were accused of down are come hither also.” to become doers of the word and not turning the world upside down (Acts Let’s notice some aspects of Paul’s hearers only (James 1:22). Let us not 17:6). The exact accusation was, preaching in Thessalonica. be guilty of prejudging people’s “These that have turned the world 1) Paul’s message was “out of the responses. upside down are come hither also.” scriptures” (Acts 17:3). That is exactly 4) Paul’s preaching caused an There is no doubt about it, preaching what must be demanded in every ser - uproar (Acts 17:5). This certainly does the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27) mon today. We should not have it any not mean he was in any way guilty of can cause division and bring about other way! What is it that God wants wrongdoing. In fact, the Bible indi - changes in people’s lives which others an evangelist to do? “Preach the word” cates that the uproar came about adamantly oppose. Our intent in (2 Tim. 4:2) and “speak as the oracles because of the impure motive (called teaching the truth is not to cause divi - of God” (1 Peter 4:11). You can attend “envy”) of some of the unbelieving sion, turmoil, or heartache. Yet, some - some gatherings nowadays and hear a Jews. Brethren, the preaching of the times that is the consequence of lot of stories and nonsense, but not truth, combined with clear words that Gospel preaching. Remember, Paul’s much Bible. We must always demand show the contrast between light and charge was to preach the Gospel was book, chapter, and verse preaching. darkness, gets people fired up! It hap - for a purpose: “To open their eyes, and Folks may look at us as the old pened when Jesus taught, when the to turn them from darkness to light, out -of -touch, conservative country first century disciples taught, and it and from the power of Satan unto church, but preaching the Scriptures happens today. The truth pricked the God, that they may receive forgive - is always in fashion with Jehovah, hearts of the Jews assembled on the ness of sins, and inheritance among whether we are in the farmland or in Day of Pentecost and led to the obedi - them which are sanctified by faith a heavily populated city. ence of about 3,000 souls that day that is in me” (Acts 26:18). People 2) Paul preached Jesus as the (Acts 2:36 -41). However, when sometimes react with animosity when Christ (Acts 17:3). Biblically speaking, Stephen later preached the truth to they see others enter the light of God’s to preach the Christ is the same as his brethren according to the flesh, Son. November 2013 – Seek The Old Paths 87

There is, brethren, a good sense in be busy “turning the world upside preached the Christ (8:5), and that which we need to be turning the world down.” included preaching His kingdom upside down. We need to be so zealous 6) Paul preached Jesus as King (8:12). in trying to teach the Gospel to the (Acts 17:7). The unbelievers of Thessa - The apostle Paul’s part of preach - lost that the community knows about lonica declared that Paul and those ing the Gospel in Thessalonica was a us! We need to be so uncompromising with him were saying “that there is success. Why? Because he did his part. with immorality that the world knows another king, one Jesus.” Because He could not control the response of us! We need to be so strong in preach - Jesus is King, He has a kingdom, those that heard the Gospel, but he ing repentance that the darkness -lov - which is His church (Col. 1:13,14). did what the Lord expected of him. ing rebels of society know us! We need Because Jesus is King, He has a law Can the Lord count on us to do the to be so staunch in our opposition to for people to follow, which is His teach - same? Let’s pray for the spread of the man -made religion that the denomi - ing or doctrine (2 John 9). When one Gospel. Let’s invite others to attend nationalists know us! We are not out truly preaches the Christ, then his church services. Let’s all support the to make a name for ourselves, but preaching includes God’s message preaching of the truth. when we teach the truth without fear about the kingdom of the Christ. 120 Will Lewis Dr. SE or apology, we will be noticed. Let us When Philip preached in Samaria, he Cleveland, TN 37323

and followers of His will. This was Paul’s wish for King Agrippa, “Paul BE AS I A M said, I would to God, that not only John D. Cotham thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such he apostle Paul introduced the tern he followed would also be an as I am, except these bonds” (Acts Gospel of Christ to the Gentiles example of Christian living. 26:29). Notice that Paul would not Tof the Roman province of Gala - Paul admonished the preacher wish his chains upon anyone, but he tia, and as a result, there were church - Timothy to be an example, “Let no man would hope that all could be saved in es established throughout the region. despise thy youth; but be thou an exam - Christ as he was. We should hope for They had their ups and downs (Gal. ple of the believers, in word, in conver - the same. 1:7), but part of Paul’s instruction was sation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in First, we should be as confident in to encourage them. In Galatians 4:12 purity” (1 Tim. 4:12). Elders, as well as our salvation as Paul was. Second, we he exhorted, “Brethren, I beseech you, every Christian, are also to be good should have the same love for the souls be as I am.” Was this the statement of examples. Therefore it is not wrong nor of others as Paul did. In order to do so, an arrogant person? NO! It wasn’t arrogant for one to say “Follow me, as I we must live the life of Christ. arrogance. Was it right for Paul to follow Christ.” Brethren, let us live the proper make such a statement? YES! It had In many cases such an admonition example and then let us encourage everything to do with that which was is understood: “And ye became follow - others to “be as we are.” right. Can you and I rightfully make ers of us, and of the Lord, having 23466 Highway 49 such a statement to others today? received the word in much affliction, Saucier, MS 39574 YES! You and I can make such a state - with joy of the Holy Ghost” (1 Thess. ment IF we mean what Paul meant, 1:6). It is implied that the Christians and IF we are the example that Paul at Thessalonica began to watch and Biblical Authority… was. follow the example of Paul and those (Continued from page 81) Paul was simply pointing out that workers traveling with him. Paul puts cease. The cessation of this miraculous “example” is a powerful way to teach forth Christ as the prime example phenomenon would happen “when and persuade others. Paul also used when he says “and of the Lord.” Peter that which is perfect is come.” The “per - this lesson in another incidence. To the also held Christ up as the ultimate fect” or complete in this passage refers Corinthians he said, “Be ye followers of example, “For even hereunto were ye to the completed revelation of God’s me, even as I also am of Christ” (1 Cor. called: because Christ also suffered for word. When God revealed the entirety 11:1). Here, he clarifies the statement us, leaving us an example, that ye of his revelation, all miracles would with “even as I also am of Christ.” The should follow his steps” (1 Peter 2:21). cease. This took place sometime by the pattern of example (Christ) makes the God would have us understand end of the first century. With the difference. that we must be “living examples.” We entirety of God’s will revealed and Certainly none of us should be so must practice what we preach. We can - committed to written form, there is no arrogant as to try to influence anyone not say that we belong to Christ and longer any need for miraculous inspi - to follow our human ways. To the live as if we belong to the Devil. When ration to be in men. Philippians Paul noted, “Brethren, be one becomes a Christian, he is saying Therefore, if any religious practice followers together of me, and mark to God that he is willing to live in a is without biblical authority, such as them which walk so as ye have us for glass house. We should understand the use of mechanical instruments of an ensample” (Phil. 3:17). The word that the eyes of the world will be upon music, their employment in worship is “mark” means to observe or look to. He us. sinful. is showing that not only an apostle, Christians must desire that others 105 East Planters but anyone who followed the same pat - will become as they are, lovers of God San Augustine, TX 75972 88 Seek The Old Paths – November 2013

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