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1. You may be surprised that everyone in the assembly is invited to participate in the singing portion of the worship services. We have no choirs, special groups or solos. We use no pianos, drums, organs or guitars, etc. All music is a capella (vocal) as the New Testament indicates it was in the apostolic days (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16). Contrary to what you may have heard, the singing is good singing, soul stirring and encouraging! 2. You may be surprised that visitors are NOT requested to make a contribution. Local members contribute on the first day of the week, each and every week. This is done without demand in the form of "dues" or "assessments." Free-will giving on the basis of other New Testament principles is impressed as the plan of scriptural giving. No pie-suppers, crab feeds, raffles, or money raising schemes are used! We do not bum or beg from those outside the Lord’s own family. All contributions, if the Lord’s will is respected, are freely given. 3. If you visit with us on any Lord's Day (the "first day of the week"), you may be surprised to find that we commemorate the death of Christ by partaking of the Lord's supper, which was instituted by Christ and commanded and taught by Paul, the Apostle (Matt. 26:26-29;1 Cor. 11:23-26). In the first century, "upon the first day of the week the disciples came together to break bread" (Acts 20:7). Therefore, since every week has a first day, it follows that the Lord's death must be commemorated every week! Not once every six months, or only on "Easter Sunday"! 4. You may be surprised that no hyper-emotional appeals are made. You will not be urged to act or move in response to the invitation of the Lord until you have sufficient knowledge of the Truth, to serve as a basis for your faith (John 20:30-31; Acts 16:32). 5. It may surprise you that most Christians attend every assembly of the church because they want to, enjoy it, know it is commanded and because they realize that assembling to worship is vital to their spiritual growth and service to God (Acts 2:42; Heb. 10:25). 6. You may be surprised to know that we have no man-made prayer book, no church-authorized discipline, manual, or creed, and no ritualistic worship (2 Tim. 3:16-17 & 4:1-4). 7. You may be surprised at the manner of our services. You will not hear shouting, screaming, or any other manifestation of unbridled emotions. No one will fall out in a faint, roll around on the floor, or speak in "unknown" tongues. You will see that the admonition of the apostle Paul that all things "be done decently and in order," is sincerely observed (1 Cor. 14:40). 8. You may be surprised that the service is NOT conducted by a man claiming to be a part of a special priesthood. Since the Lord Jesus Christ is our High Priest and all Christians now make up a general priesthood and can themselves approach God and offer their prayers and sacrifices, it should be evident that no special earthly priesthood is necessary today (1 Peter 2:5, 9; Heb. 4:14-16). 9. With virtually all denominations having earthly headquarters, it may surprise you that the church of Christ has neither earthly headquarters nor an earthly head. Christ alone is head of His body and the church’s headquarters is in heaven, where Christ now sits and rules with ALL authority (Col. 1:18; Eph. 1:22-23; Phil. 3:20-21). 10. Contrary to what you may have heard, you may be surprised to know that the church of Christ is not intent on condemning everyone to Hell, but invites all to come to our Lord in obedient faith, in faithful service and worship and in Godly living, that one may enjoy the benefits of His grace and strive for the hope of eternal life (Titus 2:11-12; 1 John 2:25). 11. Finally, you may be surprised to learn that the Lord’s church is neither Catholic, Protestant, sectarian, nor denominational. The Lord’s church in the first century was obviously none of these. If we are correct in our claim that we follow His Word alone (admitting that not all "churches of Christ" can honestly make this claim) and in every way seek to be simple New Testament Christians, then we are the same as it was in the first century. Being of the same head, doctrine, and practice results in being the same body the Lord purchased or built and therefore antedates both Catholicism and all Protestant denominations (Acts 20:28; Matt. 16:18). We greatly desire the unity for which Jesus prayed, but, we believe that scriptural unity is found only in Christ (John 17:20-21). Both Catholicism and denominational sectarianism stands opposed to this unity. We stand upon the Word of our Lord alone, respecting His authority in everything and speaking only as He directs us if we "all be one" in Christ as He so fervently prayed (Matt. 28:18; 1 Peter 4:11).
Have you ever had an unwelcome visitor? No, I’m not talking about someone knocking on your door who you didn’t want to see that day. I’m talking about something different. I experienced an unwelcome visitor just a few days ago while traveling down the road. It was such a beautiful spring day, I decided to roll the windows down and enjoy the crisp, spring air. Suddenly, a bee flew in my window and hit me in the shoulder. At first, I didn’t think anything about it, because, at the time, I didn’t know what had just hit me. As I continued down the road, I realized what had just hit me on the shoulder. It was a huge bee! It was crawling across my truck seat. I immediately took a newspaper and removed the bee from my truck. Why did I remove the bee? Why didn’t I just allow it to remain in my truck? The bee posed a threat to me. If I had left him alone, there was the possibility that he could have stung me and caused me to have a wreck. That bee was simply an “unwelcome visitor” in my vehicle. As I think about this experience, it reminds me of another “unwelcome visitor,” who often finds a way to slip into our lives. You and I know him as Satan. If there has ever been an unwelcome visitor in our lives, it’s the devil! He’s always watching and waiting for an opportunity to fly into your life. When the time is right and you least expect it, he usually jumps right in. This is why we are warned not to give place to the devil (Eph. 4:27). “To give place to” means to give in to or to yield to. The idea is that we should not make ways or open doors wherein the devil may enter our lives. Regardless of our efforts, sometimes he still finds a way in. As soon as we recognize that he has slipped in, our main goal should be to remove him. Why? His ultimate goal is to cause us harm spiritually and eventually destroy us. Such is why we are warned, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Pet. 5:8) How do we keep this unwelcome visitor from entering our lives? We must submit to God. James states, “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” (Jam. 4:7) The word “submit” means to yield to one's admonition or advice. Why must we submit to God? Satan is a very powerful and deceptive being. Paul described him as having the ability to transform into an angel of light (2 Cor. 11:14). The apostle John states that “the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one.” (1 Jn. 5:19) Satan is an adversary who we battle daily. We are only fooling ourselves if we think that we can defeat him on our own. We need greater power. When we submit to God, we are admitting that we cannot make it on our one and we certainly can’t defeat Satan. Submission to God equips us with the power to resist Satan and as a result, he will flee. “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 Jn. 4:4; See also Phil. 4:13) We will never successfully remove the devil from our lives if we do not submit to God. We must appeal to Scripture. Consider the temptation of Jesus. When Satan tried to slip into the life of Jesus, our Savior appealed to scripture (Matt. 4:1-10). When Jesus kept using scripture, the devil eventually fled. The implication is if we appeal to Scripture, the devil will flee from us. Therefore, let us read the Bible, study it, meditate upon it, memorize it, and make it a daily part of our lives (Psa. 1:1-2; 2 Tim. 2:15). We must Pray. Jesus said to Peter, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat.” (Lk. 22:31) Jesus continued by saying to Peter, “…I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail.” (vs. 32) What’s the implication of this passage? Prayer aids us in escaping the clutches of Satan. Such is one of the many reasons why Jesus encouraged his disciples to pray. “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation.” (Matt. 26:41) Satan is truly an unwelcome visitor, but his goal is not to just visit. He wants to dwell, rule, and dominate our lives. Let’s always be on the lookout for him and never let him in! -David E. Paden
Have you ever wondered what happens immediately following death? Most of us have thought about this at some time or other. There is an account in the New Testament which supplies us with much information about what happens to our souls immediately following death. This account was given by Jesus. It is recorded in Luke 16:19-31. Jesus told about two men. One man was very rich. He had everything he desired. The other man, Lazarus, was very poor. He was also sick. He lay at the gate of the rich man’s house and begged for the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. After a time Lazarus died. The rich man also died. Just as there was a great difference in life between the two men, so there is also a great difference in death. However, the situation is now reversed. Lazarus was “carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom.” But the rich man “lifted up his eyes in torment.” There are many very valuable lessons which we can learn from this account. One lesson is that wealth, power, and social position do not extend beyond life on earth. The rich man had all of these, but he went to a place of torment. Lazarus had none of these things in this life, but he was in a place of happiness after death. Another lesson is that consciousness continues beyond the grave. Some think that when one dies, he is simply unconscious until the resurrection. This is not true! The body sleeps in the grave. The soul does not. Memory also continues beyond the grave. The rich man was fully conscious. He recognized Lazarus. He remembered he had five brothers back on the earth. He was concerned about them, and begged Abraham to send Lazarus back to preach to them, so that they would not come to the place of torment where he was. Many fathers and mothers after death will remember their children and how they failed to teach them about God when they had the opportunity. They will long for someone to teach them so that they will not come to be with them in torment. Many will remember with deep regret the opportunities they had to prepare for death while on earth, but did not take advantage of them. Still another lesson that Jesus taught in this account is that after death, there is no second chance. The rich man begged for Abraham to “send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue,” but Abraham refused. He pointed out that “there is a great gulf fixed” and that none could cross over it. God has given us the time that we have on this earth so that we can prepare for death: “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is long-suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). Once death comes, it is too late! There are only two possible places to go when we die. There is the place of the blessed where Lazarus went. This is the place where God’s faithful children go to await the resurrection and the Judgment. There is also the place of torment where the rich man went. This is the place where people go at death who have taken no thought for God and for doing His will during their lifetime on earth. What about you? Are you prepared for death? Life on earth is uncertain! We have no assurance that we will live to see tomorrow. Death is certain! The Bible warns: “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit’ whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away” (James 4:13,14). The Bible also says, “Behold now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). Begin today while there is time. Believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God (John 8:24). He alone is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Only through Christ can we be saved eternally (Acts 4:11,12). Repent of all your past sins (Acts 17:30,31). Confess your faith in Christ as the Son of God (Acts 8:37). Be buried with Him in baptism to have your sins washed away (Romans 6:4; Acts 22:16). Then serve Christ faithfully in His church for the rest of your life, and you will be blessed throughout all eternity. “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. . . . Be faithful until death, and I will give you a crown of life” (Revelation 2:10). A place of peace and rest awaits faithful children of God at death.
As the holiday season approaches, many of us find joy in giving and receiving gifts. Whether it’s a thoughtful present, spending quality time with loved ones, or serving others through acts of kindness, this time of year brings out the spirit of generosity. While these gifts brighten our days and strengthen our relationships, there is one gift that surpasses all others—the gift of Jesus Christ. The Bible tells us in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Jesus is the ultimate gift, given freely by God out of His immense love for each of us. This gift brings forgiveness, hope, and the promise of eternal life. Unlike any earthly gift, the love and salvation of Jesus have eternal value and can transform our hearts and lives. However, while this is a free gift from God, it must be received through our obedience to the gospel. The Bible outlines the steps we must take to accept this gift: hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17), believing that Jesus is the Son of God (Mark 16:16), confessing our faith in Him (Romans 10:9-10), repenting of our sins (Acts 2:38), being baptized by immersion for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 22:16), and living faithfully unto death (Revelation 2:10). These steps are not acts of earning salvation but a demonstration of our faith and obedience to God’s plan for receiving this extraordinary gift. A gift can only be enjoyed if it is received. The same is true for the gift of Jesus Christ. While God’s love and grace are freely offered to all, we must take the steps necessary to accept and embrace this gift. This Christmas season, as we exchange gifts and celebrate with loved ones, let us also reflect on the greatest gift of all—Jesus Christ. Let us honor His sacrifice by living lives of obedience, faith, and love, sharing His message with others, and allowing His light to shine through us. Truly, there is no greater gift than the salvation offered through Jesus Christ, and there is no better time than now to accept and rejoice in it.
A very common and popular statement among religious people today is, “There are Christians in all churches.” Too often people believe this to be a true statement without ever examining the Scriptures to see if it is true. Most do not follow the command of the Bible to “Prove all things and hold fast to that which is good.” (1 Thess. 5:21). Most religious people are not like the Bereans, who searched the Scriptures daily to see if the things that are taught are true (Acts 17:11). For a conclusion to be drawn, we must honestly ask the question, “Are there Christians in all churches?” and let the Bible determine our answer. To begin with, most people would be surprised to learn the statement, “There are Christians in all churches,” cannot be found in the Bible. Since the Bible commands, “Prove all things…” (1 Thess. 5:21), and the Bible does not state there are Christians in all churches, one should immediately be concerned. On judgment day, we will be judged by the Bible (Jn. 12:48; Rev. 20:12). Why should one believe and promote a statement that cannot be found in the Bible? Second, to state that there are Christians in all churches is to imply that all churches are pleasing to God. Such is not the teaching of the Bible. The Bible teaches that Jesus built only “one Church.” Christ promised to build "His" Church. (Mat. 16:18) Christ did "not" promise, I will build "a" church, or I will build my "churches," or I will build "one" of my churches. Christ promised “I will build my Church,” in the singular. The apostle Paul taught there is only one true Church. In numerous passages, he taught there is only one body. “There is one body and one Spirit…” (Eph. 4:4; See also Rom. 12:4-5; I Cor. 12:12; I Cor. 12:20; Col. 3:15). The body is identified as the Church. “And he is the head of the body, the Church...” (Col. 1:18; See also Eph. 1:22-23). Since the body is the Church, and there is only one body, the logical explanation is, that there is only one Church. That one Church is identified in the Bible as the Church of Christ. “Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you.” (Rom. 16:16) Why did Paul identify the church as “the churches of Christ?” It wasn’t because that just happened to be the denominational church that he was addressing. He addressed the Church as “the churches of Christ” because that was the only Church that existed in his day. If one would do a careful historical study, he/she would be surprised to learn that all of the different denominational churches that exist today didn’t exist in Paul’s day. They are all churches that were established by man and therefore, they are not the one Church that one can read about in the Bible. Finally, to state that there are Christians in all the churches is to imply that there are many ways in which one can become a Christian. If you were to randomly call each religious group in the phone book and ask the question, “What must I do to be saved?” You would get several different answers when the Bible gives only one answer. Salvation is dependent on God’s grace (Eph. 2:8) and our obedience to His will. Jesus has promised salvation only to those who are willing to obey Him. “Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him.” (Heb. 5:8-9; See also Matt. 7:21-23). Obedience requires faith in God (Heb. 11:6), repentance of sins (Acts 17:30), confession of faith in Christ (Matt. 10:32-33), and baptism for the remission of sins (Mk. 16:16; Acts 2:38). Only by taking these steps can one become a Christian. If one or more is left out, one is not a Christian. While God desires that all mankind be saved (1 Tim. 2:4) and become Christians (Acts 26:28-29), the Bible does not teach that there are Christians in all the churches. This teaching is a doctrine that is foreign to the Bible.
A name carries great significance, especially when it represents our identity as Christians. The title "Christian" is more than just a label—it signifies that we belong to Christ and strive to reflect His teachings and example. In Acts 11:26, we read, “And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.” This name was given to those who followed Jesus, marking them as people who lived and spoke in a way that pointed to Him. As Christians, we carry the name of Christ, and with that comes the responsibility to honor Him in our actions and words. Our daily lives should be a testament to the One we represent. Colossians 3:17 instructs us, “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” This means that everything we do should reflect the values and love of Christ. When we act with kindness, speak truthfully, and extend grace, we uphold the reputation of the name we bear. Keeping our conduct pure and true to His teachings helps ensure that the name "Christian" is associated with integrity, compassion, and godliness. However, when we falter or behave in ways that do not align with Christ’s example, we risk tarnishing the name. We must remember the solemn words of Romans 2:24: “For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you.” When our actions contradict our faith, it not only damages our witness but also affects how others perceive the Lord we represent. Maintaining a lifestyle that honors Christ means being mindful of our choices and seeking to show love, patience, and humility. Let us strive to keep the name "Christian" worthy of its meaning. When others see us, may they be reminded of Jesus and be drawn to His light. As we go about our lives, let us hold fast to the wisdom of 1 Peter 4:16: “Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.” By living with purpose and reflecting Christ in all we do, we can bring glory to God and show the world the true beauty of following Jesus. Our name, "Christian," is a gift and a calling. May we wear it with pride, humility, and a heart full of love, always reflecting the Savior who gave His life for us.
Years ago, I drew the assignment to teach a Ladies’ Bible Class on the subject of motherhood. I felt imminently qualified! After all—I had a mother! I had also observed my wife being a mother to my two children. Now, all I had to do was to go to the appropriate verses in the Bible and I could advise all the mothers in the class on how to do their jobs better! Naturally, I turned to Proverbs 31. "The Worthy Woman." Even as I announced the text, a young woman in our class audibly groaned. Her reaction surprised me. She was a very faithful and dedicated Christian. She was a preacher’s daughter and a deacon’s wife. She had two pre-school-aged children and was working a part-time job outside the home. In the eyes of many—she had it all and did it all! When I inquired about her reaction she said, "Whenever I study that passage it makes me feel like a failure." Immediately, the rest of the class chimed in! "The expectations are too high." "The work is too demanding." We don’t get any help from our husbands!" "Our friends who work outside the home look down on us." "Stay-at-home-moms get stuck with all the volunteer jobs at school and in the church." All of a sudden, I realized just how unqualified I was to teach this class. It was exactly the reason that Paul instructed "older women to teach the younger women." (Titus 2:3-5) You can study it in a class, but until you "walk the walk" you aren’t prepared to "talk the talk." In the years since I have grown through the study of scripture and life to more fully understand the importance of the role played both by mothers and fathers. Several things about Proverbs 31 need to be understood for it to be fully appreciated. First, these words were written by a mother to her son (King Lemuel)! (Proverbs 31:1) They were written to guide him in his quest for a wife. So we know, right away, she was speaking of an ideal wife. Few women could live up to every quality described in this passage. Second, most scholars believe this description to be a summary of the life role of a mother and a wife. There are times in our lives when the most "pressing" needs take the greatest "precedence." A woman with small children doesn’t have time to "make sashes" or "plant a vineyard!" At other times in her life, she is more free to "buy a field and stretch out her hand to the poor!" Paul gives credence to this view when he lists the qualities of a widow who is worthy to be supported by the church. She was to be "well reported for good works; having brought up children, lodged strangers, washed the saint’s feet, relieved the afflicted, and followed every good work." To qualify—she had to be at least 60! (I Timothy 5:9-10) What I do believe that Proverbs 31 does emphasize is relationships. A wife and a mother’s true virtue is revealed in how she deals with the relationships God entrusts her with. Relationships that can and should be prioritized! They are—in order of importance: First, her relationship to God. "A woman who fears the Lord shall be praised." Second, her relationship with her husband. "The heart of her husband safely trusts in her. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life." Third, her relationship with her children and in making a home for her family. "She brings her food from afar. She is not afraid of snow for her household. Fourth, her relationship to those she serves as she serves God. "She stretches out her hands to the poor. She opens her mouth with kindness and wisdom." Fifthly, she takes care of herself. "She makes tapestry for herself; her clothing is fine linen." The truth is all of these relationships emanate from one. She loves God! Her love of God shows itself in the fruit of her good works. So, to all wives and mothers, there is good news to be had. God doesn't expect you to "have it all" or be able to "do it all." Do what you can—when you can. Enjoy each season of your life. In doing so, God will be pleased and those who are most important in your life, your family, will be blessed. "Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her." (Proverbs 31:28)
God has always worked through His people who say, “With God’s Help, I can!” For forty years the Israelites wandered in the wilderness because ten men said, “We can’t.” The wilderness of Arabia was scattered with the bones of thousands of Israelites who agreed with those two men who said, “We can’t.” “We can’t” makes excuses and challenges every attempt. Out of those thousands of Israelites who came out of Egypt, only two went into the land of Cannan, we still remember those two men: Joshua and Caleb. These men had faith in God and said, “We can, with God’s help!” “We can” make a way! “We can” attempts every challenge! Paul was another man of faith who said, “I can.” In Php. 4:13 Paul stated, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Paul like Joshua and Caleb is remembered for saying, “I can with God’s help!” Today, Christ calls His church to action. We are commanded to “go” into all the world, to seek, save, and serve. We too are given a choice as those Israelites were given. We will either be remembered as a person who said, “I can with Christ's help” or forgotten because we responded to God with “I can’t.” Which one will you be?
Caring for the elderly and widows in our church family is more than just a responsibility; it is a heartfelt commitment that reflects our love and compassion as Christians. The Bible speaks clearly about the importance of this duty, reminding us that caring for those who are older and for widows is a way to honor God and follow His commands. Let’s explore what it truly means to care for the elderly and widows in our church and how we can make a meaningful difference in their lives. Biblical Foundation The Bible provides a strong foundation for caring for the elderly and widows. In James 1:27 (KJV), it says, "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." This verse emphasizes that true faith includes caring for those who are vulnerable and in need. Similarly, in 1 Timothy 5:3, Paul instructs the church to "honor widows that are widows indeed." These passages remind us that caring for the elderly and widows is not just a kind gesture but a vital part of our faith. Understanding Their Needs To care for the elderly and widows effectively, we must first understand their needs. Many elderly people face challenges such as loneliness, health issues, and limited mobility. Widows, on the other hand, may struggle with grief, financial difficulties, and a sense of isolation. By recognizing these challenges, we can offer the appropriate support and comfort. Emotional Support One of the most important ways to care for the elderly and widows is by providing emotional support. This can be as simple as spending time with them, listening to their stories, and offering a shoulder to lean on. Loneliness is a common issue among the elderly and widows, and regular visits or phone calls can make a significant difference in their lives. Church members can organize visitation schedules to ensure that no one feels forgotten or neglected. Practical Assistance In addition to emotional support, practical assistance is crucial. Many elderly individuals and widows need help with daily tasks such as grocery shopping, cleaning, and transportation to medical appointments. Offering to run errands, help with household chores, or provide rides can greatly ease their burdens. These small acts of kindness show them that they are valued and loved. Spiritual Encouragement Caring for the elderly and widows also involves providing spiritual encouragement. Regularly inviting them to church services, Bible studies, and prayer meetings helps them stay connected to the church community and grow in their faith. Additionally, sharing scripture, praying with them, and discussing spiritual matters can bring comfort and hope. Ensuring that they have access to religious materials, such as Bibles and devotional books, can also be a source of great encouragement. Creating a Supportive Community A strong church family is essential for supporting the elderly and widows. Creating a culture of care and compassion within the church encourages everyone to participate in this important ministry. This can be achieved by organizing church events that include the elderly and widows, such as potlucks, game nights, and holiday celebrations. These events provide opportunities for fellowship and help build strong relationships within the church. Involving Younger Generations Involving younger generations in caring for the elderly and widows is beneficial for both groups. Young people can learn valuable lessons about empathy, compassion, and respect for their elders. Encouraging Bible classes to participate in service projects, such as yard work or delivering meals, fosters a sense of community and teaches important life skills. This intergenerational interaction also brings joy and a sense of purpose to the elderly and widows. A Lasting Impact Caring for the elderly and widows in our church family has a lasting impact on both the caregivers and the recipients. It strengthens the bonds within the church, fosters a sense of unity, and demonstrates the love of Christ in a tangible way. When we care for those who are often overlooked or forgotten, we embody the teachings of Jesus and bring glory to God. In conclusion, caring for the elderly and widows is a vital and rewarding ministry that reflects our faith and love as Christians. By providing emotional support, practical assistance, spiritual encouragement, and creating a supportive community, we can make a significant difference in their lives. Let us embrace this responsibility with joy and compassion, knowing that in doing so, we are serving God and honoring His commands. Together, we can create a church family where everyone feels valued, loved, and supported.
Vacation Bible School (VBS) is a highlight of the summer for many churches and their communities. It's a time filled with fun, learning, and spiritual growth for children of all ages. While it might seem like just a week of activities, VBS holds a much deeper significance. Let's explore why Vacation Bible School is so important for children and how it impacts their lives and the broader church community. Engaging and Fun Learning Environment One of the biggest benefits of VBS is that it makes learning about God fun and engaging. Unlike traditional Sunday school, VBS often includes themes that bring Bible stories to life. These themes can range from jungle adventures to space explorations, all designed to capture the imagination of children. Through creative crafts, songs, interactive games, and dramatic storytelling, children learn biblical truths in a way that is exciting and memorable. This engaging environment helps children retain what they learn and apply it to their daily lives. Building a Strong Foundation of Faith Vacation Bible School is more than just fun and games; it's a vital tool for laying a strong foundation of faith in young lives. During VBS, children learn about God's love, the teachings of Jesus, and important biblical principles. These lessons are crucial as they help shape a child's understanding of who God is and how He wants us to live. By planting these seeds of faith early, VBS helps children develop a relationship with God that can grow and flourish throughout their lives. Fostering a Sense of Community and Belonging VBS provides a unique opportunity for children to build friendships and feel a sense of belonging within the church community. It's a time when children can come together and make new friends. This sense of community is important because it helps children feel supported and valued. They learn that they are part of a family that cares about them and is there to help them grow in their faith. Encouraging Active Participation in Church Life Attending church services every Sunday is important, but it’s not enough to fully engage children in the life of the church. Vacation Bible School encourages children and their families to be more involved in church activities beyond the Sunday service. By participating in VBS, children see that church is a place where they can learn, have fun, and build relationships. This active participation helps children and their families become more connected to the church community, which is vital for the church’s growth and longevity. Developing Leadership and Service Skills VBS is not just beneficial for the younger children who attend; it also provides valuable opportunities for older children, teens, and adults to develop leadership and service skills. Teens and adults often serve as group leaders, teachers, and helpers during VBS, learning how to plan and organize activities, lead small groups, and serve others. These experiences help them grow personally and spiritually, and they also teach the importance of serving within the church. This service-oriented mindset is crucial for the health and growth of the church community. Creating Lasting Memories The memories created during Vacation Bible School often last a lifetime. Children remember the fun activities, the exciting stories, and the friendships they formed. These positive memories can have a lasting impact on a child's Christian life. When they look back on their time at VBS, they remember a place where they felt loved, learned about God, and had fun. These memories can help reinforce their faith and encourage them to stay connected to the church as they grow older. Strengthening the Church Community For a church to thrive, it must invest in the spiritual growth of its youngest members. Vacation Bible School is a key part of this investment. By providing a fun and engaging environment for children to learn about God, VBS helps nurture their faith and encourages them to become active participants in the church community. When children are excited about their faith and feel connected to the church, they inspire their families and peers to become more involved as well. This collective engagement strengthens the church community and ensures its vitality for future generations. A Call to Action In conclusion, Vacation Bible School is an essential part of nurturing the spiritual growth of children and strengthening the church community. It goes beyond just a week of fun and games; it’s about creating an engaging learning environment, building a strong foundation of faith, fostering a sense of community, and encouraging active participation in church life. By making VBS a priority, churches can invest in the spiritual development of their children and ensure the health and growth of their community for years to come. Let's recognize the importance of VBS and commit to supporting and participating in this vital ministry. Mark your calendars for 2024 VBS which will be held Monday-Thursday, June 17-20, 2024 from 5:30-7:30 PM.
1. You may be surprised that everyone in the assembly is invited to participate in the singing portion of the worship services. We have no choirs, special groups or solos. We use no pianos, drums, organs or guitars, etc. All music is a capella (vocal) as the New Testament indicates it was in the apostolic days (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16). Contrary to what you may have heard, the singing is good singing, soul stirring and encouraging! 2. You may be surprised that visitors are NOT requested to make a contribution. Local members contribute on the first day of the week, each and every week. This is done without demand in the form of "dues" or "assessments." Free-will giving on the basis of other New Testament principles is impressed as the plan of scriptural giving. No pie-suppers, crab feeds, raffles, or money raising schemes are used! We do not bum or beg from those outside the Lord’s own family. All contributions, if the Lord’s will is respected, are freely given. 3. If you visit with us on any Lord's Day (the "first day of the week"), you may be surprised to find that we commemorate the death of Christ by partaking of the Lord's supper, which was instituted by Christ and commanded and taught by Paul, the Apostle (Matt. 26:26-29;1 Cor. 11:23-26). In the first century, "upon the first day of the week the disciples came together to break bread" (Acts 20:7). Therefore, since every week has a first day, it follows that the Lord's death must be commemorated every week! Not once every six months, or only on "Easter Sunday"! 4. You may be surprised that no hyper-emotional appeals are made. You will not be urged to act or move in response to the invitation of the Lord until you have sufficient knowledge of the Truth, to serve as a basis for your faith (John 20:30-31; Acts 16:32). 5. It may surprise you that most Christians attend every assembly of the church because they want to, enjoy it, know it is commanded and because they realize that assembling to worship is vital to their spiritual growth and service to God (Acts 2:42; Heb. 10:25). 6. You may be surprised to know that we have no man-made prayer book, no church-authorized discipline, manual, or creed, and no ritualistic worship (2 Tim. 3:16-17 & 4:1-4). 7. You may be surprised at the manner of our services. You will not hear shouting, screaming, or any other manifestation of unbridled emotions. No one will fall out in a faint, roll around on the floor, or speak in "unknown" tongues. You will see that the admonition of the apostle Paul that all things "be done decently and in order," is sincerely observed (1 Cor. 14:40). 8. You may be surprised that the service is NOT conducted by a man claiming to be a part of a special priesthood. Since the Lord Jesus Christ is our High Priest and all Christians now make up a general priesthood and can themselves approach God and offer their prayers and sacrifices, it should be evident that no special earthly priesthood is necessary today (1 Peter 2:5, 9; Heb. 4:14-16). 9. With virtually all denominations having earthly headquarters, it may surprise you that the church of Christ has neither earthly headquarters nor an earthly head. Christ alone is head of His body and the church’s headquarters is in heaven, where Christ now sits and rules with ALL authority (Col. 1:18; Eph. 1:22-23; Phil. 3:20-21). 10. Contrary to what you may have heard, you may be surprised to know that the church of Christ is not intent on condemning everyone to Hell, but invites all to come to our Lord in obedient faith, in faithful service and worship and in Godly living, that one may enjoy the benefits of His grace and strive for the hope of eternal life (Titus 2:11-12; 1 John 2:25). 11. Finally, you may be surprised to learn that the Lord’s church is neither Catholic, Protestant, sectarian, nor denominational. The Lord’s church in the first century was obviously none of these. If we are correct in our claim that we follow His Word alone (admitting that not all "churches of Christ" can honestly make this claim) and in every way seek to be simple New Testament Christians, then we are the same as it was in the first century. Being of the same head, doctrine, and practice results in being the same body the Lord purchased or built and therefore antedates both Catholicism and all Protestant denominations (Acts 20:28; Matt. 16:18). We greatly desire the unity for which Jesus prayed, but, we believe that scriptural unity is found only in Christ (John 17:20-21). Both Catholicism and denominational sectarianism stands opposed to this unity. We stand upon the Word of our Lord alone, respecting His authority in everything and speaking only as He directs us if we "all be one" in Christ as He so fervently prayed (Matt. 28:18; 1 Peter 4:11).
Have you ever had an unwelcome visitor? No, I’m not talking about someone knocking on your door who you didn’t want to see that day. I’m talking about something different. I experienced an unwelcome visitor just a few days ago while traveling down the road. It was such a beautiful spring day, I decided to roll the windows down and enjoy the crisp, spring air. Suddenly, a bee flew in my window and hit me in the shoulder. At first, I didn’t think anything about it, because, at the time, I didn’t know what had just hit me. As I continued down the road, I realized what had just hit me on the shoulder. It was a huge bee! It was crawling across my truck seat. I immediately took a newspaper and removed the bee from my truck. Why did I remove the bee? Why didn’t I just allow it to remain in my truck? The bee posed a threat to me. If I had left him alone, there was the possibility that he could have stung me and caused me to have a wreck. That bee was simply an “unwelcome visitor” in my vehicle. As I think about this experience, it reminds me of another “unwelcome visitor,” who often finds a way to slip into our lives. You and I know him as Satan. If there has ever been an unwelcome visitor in our lives, it’s the devil! He’s always watching and waiting for an opportunity to fly into your life. When the time is right and you least expect it, he usually jumps right in. This is why we are warned not to give place to the devil (Eph. 4:27). “To give place to” means to give in to or to yield to. The idea is that we should not make ways or open doors wherein the devil may enter our lives. Regardless of our efforts, sometimes he still finds a way in. As soon as we recognize that he has slipped in, our main goal should be to remove him. Why? His ultimate goal is to cause us harm spiritually and eventually destroy us. Such is why we are warned, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Pet. 5:8) How do we keep this unwelcome visitor from entering our lives? We must submit to God. James states, “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” (Jam. 4:7) The word “submit” means to yield to one's admonition or advice. Why must we submit to God? Satan is a very powerful and deceptive being. Paul described him as having the ability to transform into an angel of light (2 Cor. 11:14). The apostle John states that “the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one.” (1 Jn. 5:19) Satan is an adversary who we battle daily. We are only fooling ourselves if we think that we can defeat him on our own. We need greater power. When we submit to God, we are admitting that we cannot make it on our one and we certainly can’t defeat Satan. Submission to God equips us with the power to resist Satan and as a result, he will flee. “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 Jn. 4:4; See also Phil. 4:13) We will never successfully remove the devil from our lives if we do not submit to God. We must appeal to Scripture. Consider the temptation of Jesus. When Satan tried to slip into the life of Jesus, our Savior appealed to scripture (Matt. 4:1-10). When Jesus kept using scripture, the devil eventually fled. The implication is if we appeal to Scripture, the devil will flee from us. Therefore, let us read the Bible, study it, meditate upon it, memorize it, and make it a daily part of our lives (Psa. 1:1-2; 2 Tim. 2:15). We must Pray. Jesus said to Peter, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat.” (Lk. 22:31) Jesus continued by saying to Peter, “…I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail.” (vs. 32) What’s the implication of this passage? Prayer aids us in escaping the clutches of Satan. Such is one of the many reasons why Jesus encouraged his disciples to pray. “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation.” (Matt. 26:41) Satan is truly an unwelcome visitor, but his goal is not to just visit. He wants to dwell, rule, and dominate our lives. Let’s always be on the lookout for him and never let him in! -David E. Paden
Have you ever wondered what happens immediately following death? Most of us have thought about this at some time or other. There is an account in the New Testament which supplies us with much information about what happens to our souls immediately following death. This account was given by Jesus. It is recorded in Luke 16:19-31. Jesus told about two men. One man was very rich. He had everything he desired. The other man, Lazarus, was very poor. He was also sick. He lay at the gate of the rich man’s house and begged for the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. After a time Lazarus died. The rich man also died. Just as there was a great difference in life between the two men, so there is also a great difference in death. However, the situation is now reversed. Lazarus was “carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom.” But the rich man “lifted up his eyes in torment.” There are many very valuable lessons which we can learn from this account. One lesson is that wealth, power, and social position do not extend beyond life on earth. The rich man had all of these, but he went to a place of torment. Lazarus had none of these things in this life, but he was in a place of happiness after death. Another lesson is that consciousness continues beyond the grave. Some think that when one dies, he is simply unconscious until the resurrection. This is not true! The body sleeps in the grave. The soul does not. Memory also continues beyond the grave. The rich man was fully conscious. He recognized Lazarus. He remembered he had five brothers back on the earth. He was concerned about them, and begged Abraham to send Lazarus back to preach to them, so that they would not come to the place of torment where he was. Many fathers and mothers after death will remember their children and how they failed to teach them about God when they had the opportunity. They will long for someone to teach them so that they will not come to be with them in torment. Many will remember with deep regret the opportunities they had to prepare for death while on earth, but did not take advantage of them. Still another lesson that Jesus taught in this account is that after death, there is no second chance. The rich man begged for Abraham to “send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue,” but Abraham refused. He pointed out that “there is a great gulf fixed” and that none could cross over it. God has given us the time that we have on this earth so that we can prepare for death: “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is long-suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). Once death comes, it is too late! There are only two possible places to go when we die. There is the place of the blessed where Lazarus went. This is the place where God’s faithful children go to await the resurrection and the Judgment. There is also the place of torment where the rich man went. This is the place where people go at death who have taken no thought for God and for doing His will during their lifetime on earth. What about you? Are you prepared for death? Life on earth is uncertain! We have no assurance that we will live to see tomorrow. Death is certain! The Bible warns: “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit’ whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away” (James 4:13,14). The Bible also says, “Behold now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). Begin today while there is time. Believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God (John 8:24). He alone is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Only through Christ can we be saved eternally (Acts 4:11,12). Repent of all your past sins (Acts 17:30,31). Confess your faith in Christ as the Son of God (Acts 8:37). Be buried with Him in baptism to have your sins washed away (Romans 6:4; Acts 22:16). Then serve Christ faithfully in His church for the rest of your life, and you will be blessed throughout all eternity. “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. . . . Be faithful until death, and I will give you a crown of life” (Revelation 2:10). A place of peace and rest awaits faithful children of God at death.
