Tag: judgment

Absolutely Subjective

Gary Pollard

Carl sourced several of the most commonly asked questions and gave me 70 of them to write about. So I’ll try to tackle a question or three every week for a while (or until something more interesting grabs my attention). This week’s question is, “Are all morals absolute? Where does morality come from?”

Morality concerns itself with the difference between right and wrong. Some things are always wrong: murder, sexual sin, theft, neglecting people in need, etc.

But are all morals absolute? 

Some things are wrong, but forgivable. Jesus used David as an example of this. Leviticus 24.9 said that a special kind of bread was for “Aaron’s descendants only.” In I Samuel, David (left with no other options) ate that bread. This was a sin. Jesus used this incident to prove God’s desire for “mercy over sacrifice” (cf. Mt 12.5-7). Rahab flat out lied about keeping Israelite spies in her home, but was praised as an example of faith because of her actions (Hb 11.31). Then, of course, there’s I John 5.16-17: There’s a type of sin that doesn’t lead to death, and a type that does.

The Bible also teaches — unambiguously — that some things are wrong for some people, and not wrong for others (Rom 14.23; I Cor 8.7-8). The message of those texts is: 1. “Keep your beliefs about these things a secret between you and God, because it’s a blessing to be able to do what you think is right without feeling guilty” (Rom 14.22). 2. “Never do anything that would cause a weaker Christian to mess up” (Rom 14.13, I Cor 8.9, cf. Mt 18.7). 

Where does humanity’s sense of right and wrong come from? 

Some things are self-evident to most people. Most people understand that killing someone for no good reason is morally wrong. Most people understand that taking something that belongs to someone else is wrong. Not everyone is this regulated, though — I Timothy 1.9 says that the law was made for people inclined to harm others. 

On the flip side, “sin gets its power from law” (I Cor 15.56, Rom 3.20, 5.20, 7.7-8), so we should be careful not to emphasize the regulation side of Christianity with people who are generally inclined to do the right thing. 

But some things are not second nature. Not everyone understands that chasing happiness (which is often conflated with euphoria, pleasure, and dopamine) at the expense of someone else’s character or feelings is wrong. Fornication and adultery fall into this category. There are many (often understandable) reasons someone might fall for these, but none of them are ultimately justifiable. Not everyone understands that ordering their lives around anything other than God, or giving immense adoration and respect to a human over God, is wrong (this is idolatry). Our understanding of what is morally right in these (and other related) areas comes from God. 

God’s standard of what’s right has always existed to benefit humanity, prevent abuse of the vulnerable, to give us the most fulfilling life here, and to make us eligible for rescue when Jesus returns. Morality is an extension of God’s existence. It is the first and last line of defense against darkness. This Earth is still around, so bad people and bad things still exist. God gave us a standard of right and wrong that we can’t always live up to, and that’s where grace comes in. But some things are always very wrong and can’t be practiced by anyone who wants to live forever. 

Passive Prayer

Carl Pollard

Far too often we believe (or act) as though once we pray about something, we don’t have to do anything more. It’s almost as if we see devotion to God and helping others as being mutually exclusive. We will pray for someone who is hurting, sick, or hungry and then do nothing more. Jesus prayed often, for long periods of time, but He was never passive. He didn’t separate faith from action. Jesus would pray, then heal. He believed, then acted. He would preach, then live what He taught. 

Why do we think it would be any different? 

Could it be that we are the answer to our prayers more often than we realize? Maybe we are the ones to comfort those who are mourning. Maybe we are the ones who are supposed to feed the hungry. Maybe we are the ones who need to study with the lost. 

It’s important we pray for others, but we cannot be passive and expect our prayers to be answered. 

Jesus warned against being passive. 

In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus is teaching about the final judgment we will all face in the end. 

Notice how Jesus rejects those who aren’t concerned for the physical well-being of others. He will have nothing to do with Christians who fail to have an active prayer life. Verses 33-40 say, “And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’” 

A prayer by itself won’t clothe someone. 

Prayer by itself won’t fill an empty stomach

A prayer with no action will never give someone a drink. Jesus accepts those who DO SOMETHING. Prayer should open our eyes to the needs of those around us. If we have a say in the matter, if we have the ability to change someone’s circumstances WE ARE THE ANSWER TO OUR PRAYERS. 

Then, in verses 41-46, Jesus says, “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ Then they also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?’ Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’ And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”“

Jesus will reject a spirituality that is not concerned for the tangible needs of those around us. People matter to God, so much so that our eternity depends on how we care for anyone we may meet. Don’t get me wrong, God expects us to pray for others (Jesus’ example of prayer included praying for our enemies and those we love), but He also expects us to be His hands and feet. 

James 2:14-17 says, “What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”

Unfortunately, we often use prayer as a substitute for action. In fact, it sounds so spiritual to say that we will pray about it; but highly hypocritical to have the tools and resources to do something about it but not act. Wives, how would you feel if you went to your husbands and asked them to put together that piece of furniture you bought from the store and they answered by saying, “I’ll be praying about it.” Maybe you need the oil changed on your car and they say, “I’ll definitely be praying that gets taken care of.” How frustrating would that be? 

At some point our prayers should open our eyes to the works we should be doing!

Like Jesus, we should pray as though it all depended on God, but act responsibly and obediently as though it all depended on us.

He prayed over big decisions, then did something. In His prayers, He was never passive. We would do well to imitate His example! 

Endurance

Carl Pollard

“But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath; but your yes is to be yes, and your no, no, so that you may not fall under judgment” (James 5:12).

Keeping this verse in the context of what James has been talking about in chapter 5, 

If you agree to work for the rich, and then don’t, you have stopped being righteous. The rich have been dishonest (see the beginning of chapter 5). They are not letting their “yes be yes.” It would be tempting as a poor person who was being taken advantage of to make the same decision. 

Often when we are tempted to compromise our character we do it for someone else. These Christians who were being mistreated most likely had families, a spouse and children who needed to eat. Can’t we compromise to help our family? If our integrity goes out the window in suffering, what does that say about our faith in God? Do we truly believe that He will reward the upright? But it’s easy to see how tempting it would be to stoop to their employer’s level. 

If they are dishonest, why should we be any different? 

This is how the world thinks. Someone cuts you off in traffic you need to get even. 

Your spouse insults you, you give one right back. It is human nature to try and repay evil for evil. 

Verse 12 says, “do not swear either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath.” 

Matthew 5:34-36, Jesus in His sermon on the mount says, “But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black.” 

To understand this section we need to recognize that the Jews had “Lesser” and “Greater” oaths. It was their way of making a commitment while leaving a way out if you needed one. If you swore by Jerusalem you were basically saying yes, but there’s a 40 percent chance I mean “no.” Jesus tells the Jews that no matter what kind of oath you make, God will hold you accountable. There is no greater or lesser oath. There is only yes or no. Applying this to James five, and these christians are being told to just wait on God. 

He will make it right in the end. The dishonest employers will be dealt with; just hold on and stay faithful. 

It won’t end well for these rich men. So don’t do something you will later regret because the Judge is near. God didn’t save Lazarus from his poverty on earth. The reward came after his life was over. We need to realize that James is not saying to not make oaths in general. In fact, Jesus and Paul both made oaths (Matt. 26:63; 1 Thes. 5:27; 2 Cor. 1:23). The point is not to make an oath that you knowingly might break. That’s like making plans to go out to eat with your spouse, knowing that you’ll make up an excuse to get out of it later. 

In suffering, we can be tempted to lose our integrity in order to try and save ourselves. 

When we face trials, we must keep our integrity. That is when it is needed most. 

“Let your yes be yes and your no, no so that you will not fall under judgement.” Remain righteous, have wisdom enough to stay the course until the very end.

Why You Must Repent

Carl Pollard

There’s a story told of a man who came forward every Sunday to ask for prayers. 

He continued responding every week for several months. Every time he would confess this same sin he would say, “Lord, take the cobwebs out of my life.” 

Finally, one Sunday, the man responded again with the same sin, and asked for the cobwebs to be taken out of his life. To which the preacher responded, “just kill the spider already.” Often, we come to God asking for forgiveness from the same sin time and time again, and yet we continue to leave the source of temptation in our lives. 

Sin always requires forgiveness. Forgiveness requires repentance. Repentance requires change! Repentance is a topic we are all familiar with. The word repent/repentance is used over 170 times in the Bible It is stressed as a part of the process by which we are forgiven of our sin. Verses like Acts 2:38 come to mind when we hear this word. To repent means to change your mind which leads to a change in direction. It means to feel remorse for sin, and it includes a change in lifestyle. 

When faced with temptation, true repentance is choosing not to sin. When caught in sin, repentance is a godly remorse. It is sincerity in your desire to “go and sin no more.” We understand this. It’s important for the born again Christian, but also for those who are wanting to be immersed and added to the body of Christ. 

We know what it is, but we also need to realize what it isn’t. Repentance isn’t just feeling sad. Paul tells us that worldly remorse is just feeling sorry that you were caught. 2 Corinthians 7:10 says, “For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.” Godly grief that leads to repentance is remorse that you have sinned against the God of our salvation. 

Worldly repentance is hollow and empty. 

It isn’t feeling remorse just because you were caught doing what you shouldn’t. True repentance is so much more. True repentance does not regret parting with sin, false repentance does. True repentance hates sin, false repentance hates the consequences of sin. True repentance accepts godly counsel and accountability, false repentance avoids accountability. 

Our goal must be to practice true repentance, and we can’t fool ourselves. We are ALL in need of forgiveness, but we must be willing to confess our sins, to hate the sin, and change our lives to mirror Christ. 

Why Is repentance needed? Whether it is in relationships, in the church or in the world, God will not forgive us if we are unwilling to change sinful behavior.

Repentance isn’t just guilt, although guilt can sometimes motivate us to repent. 

In Luke 13:3,5, Jesus tells those who come to him to repent or they will perish. In this section several people come to Jesus to talk not about their own sins, but the sins of others. It’s a whole lot easier to see the faults in others rather than the blatantly obvious faults we have in our own lives. 

Here the people have done exactly what we continue to do today, talk about the sins of others rather than their own. But Jesus tells them they are horribly mistaken. There is power in repentance, and twice in this one conversation Jesus tells them to repent.

If I am honest, there have been far too many times I have failed to just “kill the spider.” I am ashamed of the sin I continued to feed all the while pointing out sin in everyone else’s lives. God will look at each and every one of us. He sees our sins and there is no one to blame but ourselves. Repent. Before your conscience is seared or the end comes. Repent.

Not Our Problem

Gary Pollard

If I had a dollar for every time the world was supposed to have ended in my lifetime alone, I could probably fill my gas tank. Most recently, the eclipse was supposed to mark “the end.” In Graham Hancock’s 1995 book Fingerprints of the Gods, he puts great stock in the Mayan prophecy concerning the world’s end (supposedly Dec 23, 2012, conveniently revised to “no later than 2040” in Magicians of the Gods, 2015). Y2K was supposed to be a disaster. 

Just since I was born (1993), here are a few of the times the world was supposed to end (from Wikipedia, sorry): 

  1. David Berg claimed that the earth would end in 1993. 
  2. 05.02.1994 — Neal Chase’s claim that New York City would be struck by a nuclear bomb, followed shortly by the second coming. 
  3. 09.06, 09.29, 10.2.1994 — Harold Camping’s three consecutive failed predictions that the rapture would occur on these dates. 
  4. 10.23.1997 — The date, according to 17th century bishop James Ussher, that the world was supposed to end. 
  5. 03.31.1998 — Hon-Ming Chen claimed that God would come to earth in a flying saucer at 10:00 AM. 
  6. 08.18.1999 — World was supposed to end on this day, according to the psychic The Amazing Criswell. 
  7. 09.11.1999 — Earth was supposed to burn on this date, according to Philip Berg. 
  8. At least a dozen different public figures claimed the earth would end in the year 2000 (Jerry Falwell, Tim LaHaye, Jerry B. Jenkins, James Harmston, Ruth Montgomery, Edgar Cayce, Sun Myung Moon, Ed Dobson, Lester Sumrall, and others). 
  9. Some 22 other predictions between 2000 and 2024 claimed that the end of earth was imminent. 

Does earth have an expiration date? Of course! But it makes us (understandably) look ridiculous when we fall for the doomsday-predictors’ nonsense. To comfort the churches at Thessalonica, Paul made it clear that we can’t miss the second coming. A few things have to take place first: 

  1. Lawlessness runs the entire world (2.3)
  2. The majority of Christians all around the world abandon God (II Thess 2.3). 
  3. Religion is discarded (2.4). 

We aren’t there yet. The church is still doing great things all over the world! The world is chaotic, but nowhere near as bad as it could be. Rather than discarding religion, we’re now seeing people pursue it, fed up with hedonism and its best friend nihilism. This may change in our lifetime, it may not. 

I’m writing this in light of what’s happened over the last few days in the Middle East. Already we’re seeing people claim that “Armageddon” is coming because Iran attacked Israel. The point is this: we simply don’t know when Jesus will return. Of all people, we’re the ones who are supposed to be least concerned about it! Rather than portraying an image of gullibility, let’s showcase Jesus’s love to our fellow people. If he returns, great! If not, we have much better things to do than share, post, re-post, or otherwise buy into doomsday speculations. 

1 Corinthians: That There Be No Divisions Among You (IX)

Unity And Lawsuits (6:1-6)

Neal Pollard

Apparently, brethren suing one another was a problem plaguing the church of the first century. James asks his audience, “Is it not the rich who oppress you and personally drag you into court?” (2:6). In context, these are not the rich from the community but rich Christians taking their brethren to court. It was a problem for the church at Corinth, and Paul takes the time to address it. 

This Practice Was Audacious (1)

“Neighbor” in this verse is “Christian neighbor,” which is clear from verses five and six. Paul shows his disbelief at this practice, using the word “dare.” We might say, “How dare you do this?” To take a matter of disagreement or division between ourselves “before the unrighteous and not before the saints” damages the image of the Lord’s church in the community. 

This Practice Was Ignorant (2-3)

Often, we get so off track and err because we “do not know” God’s Word (Paul says “do you not know” twice in these verses). I have known of Christians suing Christians, and it is the height of ignorance of the worst kind! When challenged by the Sadducees, Jesus responded, “You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God” (Mat. 22:29). When we are ignorant of Scripture, we will wind up violating the will of God and breaking the heart of God.

This Practice Was An Abdication (4-6)

God has a definitive system for His family to handle whatever challenges it faces. If our brother offends us, He has a plan (Mat. 18:15-17). If our brother is overtaken in a fault, He has a plan (Gal. 6:1-2). If we offend our brother, He has a plan (Mat. 5:23-24). If we have seemingly irreconcilable difference, He has a plan. The plan is not to use earthly courts, but to solicit “a wise man” from “among you” (5). 

This Practice Was Damaging (6)

Paul’s bottom-line concern is inviting interference and unflattering insight into the precious bride of Christ. To have the world see the church’s “dirty laundry” can do untold harm to her ability to win souls to Christ. Incidentally, this is not about covering up abuses or crimes, but rather personal grievances brethren have between each other. If we act like the world in such circumstances, we offer the world absolutely nothing different from what it already believes and does. The world is hopelessly divided already. They should be able to look to the church and see a higher law! 

1 Corinthians: “That There Be No Divisions Among You” (II)

THE PURPOSE OF THE LETTER (1:1-17)

Neal Pollard

When I was in elementary school, we had a teacher who taught us how to properly write a letter. Miss Crews, my fourth grade teacher, told us it included the heading, greeting, body, complimentary closing, and signature. Isn’t it interesting what we retain (or fail to retain) from childhood?

Applying that basic analysis to the New Testament epistles, we are greatly helped. In addition to reading who it is from (1:1) and who it is to (1:2), we have a heading (helped by the information in verse 2), greeting (1:3), body (1:4-16:18), complimentary closing (16:19-20, 22-24), and signature (16:21). It is also in this first section of the letter (1:1-17) that we find the purpose of the letter. Notice some key aspects of these first several verses.

PAUL REMINDS THEM OF WHO THEY ARE (1:2-3)

In the daily grind, I can be apt to forget exactly who I am and who God has called me to be. It seems this had happened to the entire congregation at Corinth. Paul starts out this letter by reminding them they belong to God, set apart, and recipients of grace and peace. 

PAUL TELLS THEM WHAT GOD HAS DONE FOR THEM (1:4-9)

Except for Galatians, Paul begins his letters with a prayer, blessing, or thanksgiving. Here, Paul reminds them of how blessed they are–with grace (1:4), riches (1:5), confirmation (1:6), various blessings (1:7), hope (1:8), and fellowship with the Father and Son (1:9). I don’t know about you, but I often need to be reminded of how mindful the Lord has been of me. I need to reflect on my blessings so I won’t obsess over my problems. Paul is going to be addressing a serious problem in their lives, but he starts by centering their focus on their spiritual treasures. 

PAUL URGES SOMETHING OF THEM (1:10-17)

One of the ways a New Testament writer indicated the purpose of his writing is through petition verbs. While Paul actually uses a petition verb three times in this letter (1:10, 4:16, and 16:15), there’s no doubt that his first usage sets the tone for the rest of the letter. They have a big problem at Corinth: division. We will see this in greater detail as we walk through the letter, but their division was seen in their allegiances to men instead of Christ, in their worship services, in their exercise of spiritual gifts, in their exercise of their Christian liberties, in their view on various sins, and more. So, Paul brings them into focus here.

  • He urges them to be complete, by being of the same mind and judgment (1:10).
  • He urges them to see the true nature of Christ (1:11-13).
  • He urges them to focus on the gospel and the cross (1:14-17). 

Keep in mind, as we read through this letter, that God had something He wanted Corinth and all subsequent churches and Christians facing the same general struggle to understand. It requires us to keep sight of our identity, blessings, and purpose. Otherwise, we open the door to division which can be the gateway to “disorder and every evil thing” (Jas. 3:16). 

The Heavenly Lifeboat

Art Shannon

In Belfast, Ireland, in the Spring of 1909, approximately 20000 workers began construction on a ship for the White Star Company of which U.S. mogul J.P. Morgan was a major stockholder. This vessel was designed to be bigger and better than anything currently out there on the market. When completed three years later, it would measure an impressive 10 decks high and three football fields long. 

This ship was named the RMS Titanic and was lauded worldwide for its grandeur. Superlatives such as opulent, luxurious, elegant, lavish, grand, and elegant were used to describe it. Ticket prices ranged from $35-$4300. It could accommodate 1500 passengers and 750 crew members. 

On April 10, 1912, it set out on its maiden voyage from England to New York. Within three hours, the bow was submerged and chaos ensued as people were scrambling to get on one of the 16 lifeboats or four collapsible boats. Only one ship, The Carpathia, responded to distress signals in those early morning hours and it picked up as many Titanic passengers as possible. The rough waters and frigid temps made survival difficult.

By daybreak on April 15, 1912, the world was waking up to news of the worst maritime disaster in history. The New York Times headline read: “Saved–866  Probably Drowned–1254.” In the days that followed, final estimates recorded 32% survivors and 68% fatalities. 

I would imagine that 99% of the 2200 souls onboard the Titanic thought they were totally safe before the iceberg pierced the right side of the hull just below the waterline. How many of the 2200 were spiritually prepared for possible death? How many of us are?

If there were to be a newspaper headline following Judgment Day, which column do you want your name? Saved or lost? I think of the Book of Life somewhat as a headline. Revelation 20:12-13 says that those whose name is not written there are cast into a lake of fire. Matthew 7:13-14 tells us about the broad gate that leads to destruction or the narrow gate that leads to life. 

Later, in Matthew 7:21, it tells us that not everyone who thinks they are going to heaven will enter the kingdom, but those who do the will of the Father. Jesus says in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” We are not promised tomorrow, but we do have the here and now. 

God offers each of us a “lifeboat” like no other with His Holy Word. It is up to us and our free will if we will accept His invitation and desire for us to be part of His heavenly home. The good news is each of us, as long as we have breath, have the ability to “write” our final headline of lost or saved. 2 Peter 1:10 tells us to make our calling and election sure, whether the need is to get into our heavenly lifeboat or adjust our life vest. 

The Meat

Gary Pollard

There were some members of the early church who had difficulty accepting some of the basic teachings of Christianity. The Hebrews writer told them, “We have many things to tell you about this. But it’s hard to explain because you’ve stopped trying to understand. You’ve had enough time by now that you should be teachers. But you need someone to teach you again the first lessons of God’s teaching. You still need the teaching that is like milk. … Anyone who lives on this is still a baby and not able to understand much about living right. But solid food is for people who have grown up. From their experience they’ve learned to see the difference between good and evil” (Hb 5.11-14). 

What’s the basic stuff that prevents us from being mature? 

6.2 — Baptisms. This is probably Jewish washings and other irrelevant customs from the old system. They should’ve been past this by now. 

6.2 — This one doesn’t really apply to us today, but “laying hands on people”, usually to give them God’s blessing or supernatural power. 

6.2 — The resurrection of the dead and final judgment. 

These basics should be a given for every Christian. The Hebrews writer’s audience had “had enough time by now to become teachers” only a couple decades after Jesus’s work. It’s been about 2,000 years for us. We have no excuse to be stuck in the basics! 

So what should we be doing? 

Hebrews 7-10 — Understand that Jesus is far superior to any other system of belief, he’s in the highest position of power in the universe, he lives to serve as our perfect high priest, the old system (Old Law) is irrelevant now (8.13), that Jesus’s sacrifice cleared humanity of how the Old Law convicted us of sin (9.15), understand that his return means rescue for those of us who are waiting for him (9.28), to think about and encourage each other to show love and do good things for other people (10.24-39), and to never lose our confidence in the power of our king (10-11). 

This is a very simplified list for the sake of brevity, but a mature Christian tries hard to be like Jesus in how they live. They don’t give in when pressured by circumstance to deny Jesus through bad behavior. They accept suffering with grace and patience. Their confidence in who Jesus is and what he will do for us is never severely shaken. Their love for Christian family compels them to do good for them, and to encourage them by living like Jesus. 

Let God Work

Gary Pollard

I often wonder why the country seems to be falling apart, despite what most people want. There is no popular support for many of those things, or for the people causing those problems. What happened to competence and pride in our work? Why does everything cost more while quality has tanked? Why does it seem like so many people care only about themselves now? We have a space program, but the average high schooler is nearly illiterate. Where did this two-tier justice system come from? Why can government agencies lose trillions of dollars (and fail six audits) and be ok, but the average citizen loses their freedom for many orders of magnitude less? On that note, where did all of our freedom go?! Why are taxes, bloated regulatory codes, and constitutional violations the norm? I’m still pretty young — why is the divorce rate in my generation so staggeringly high? 

Most people I’ve talked to seem to feel the same way: it’s going to take serious upheaval to correct this problem. For awhile, I agreed. But I think I’ve been looking at our problems incorrectly this whole time. These may not be problems we can fix, but I don’t mean this in a pessimistic sense. 

Look at Isaiah, draw your own conclusions. This was a message specifically to ancient Judah/Jerusalem, but the narrative and methods God uses have not changed. Replace the towns in these statements with your own country’s name. 

“This is what the Lord says: ‘I raised my children and helped them grow up, but they have turned against me’” (1.2). 

“When you raise your arms to pray to me, I will refuse to look at you. You will say more and more prayers, but I will refuse to listen because your hands are covered with blood. Wash yourselves and make yourselves clean. Stop doing the evil things I see you do. Stop doing wrong. Learn to do good. Treat people fairly. Punish those who hurt others. Speak up for the widows and orphans. Argue their cases for them in court” (1.15-17). 

“Look at [insert your city here]. She was a faithful city. What made her become like a prostitute? In the past, [she] was filled with justice, and goodness should live there now. Instead, there are murderers” (1.21). I recommend reading all of chapters one through three. 

“The Lord God All-Powerful will take away everything [your cities] depend on. He will take away all the food and water. He will take away all the heroes and soldiers. He will take away all the judges, the prophets, the fortunetellers, and the elders. He will take away the army officers and important officials. He will take away the skilled counselors, the magicians, and those who try to tell the future. He says, ‘I will put young boys in charge of you. They will be your leaders. The people will turn against each other. Young people will not respect those who are older. The common people will not respect important leaders’” (3.1-5). 

All hope is not lost, though: “I, the Lord, am the one speaking to you. Come, let’s discuss this. Even if your sins are as dark as red dye, that stain can be removed and you will be as pure as wool that is as white as snow” (1.18). 

The problems in our country (and every country) are not ones we can necessarily fix with policy changes or better political leaders or societal upheaval. We have a systemic sin problem, and God only ever does the right thing. Judah and Jerusalem suffered because they constantly harmed the innocent with their business and legal practices. They suffered because their people left God. There are still many good people in this country who want to do what God wants! But if God is punishing us, we may want to think twice about attempting to block his justice.  

Christian Basics (II)

Gary Pollard
  • It doesn’t matter how much bible knowledge a person has — if they don’t love other people, their knowledge is worthless (cf. I Cor 8.1; 13.1-3). 
  • Hating a Christian brother or sister disqualifies a person from eternal life (I Jn 4.20). 
  • Christianity has many gray-area freedoms that make some people uncomfortable. For either side of an issue: “Be willing to accept those who still have doubts about what believers can do. And don’t argue with them about their different ideas” (Rom 14.1).
    • And, “Why do you judge your brother or sister in Christ? Or why do you think that you are better than they are? We will all stand before God, and he will judge us all … So each of us will have to explain to God about the things we do” (Rom 14.10, 12). 
    • And, “So we should stop judging each other. Let’s decide not to do anything that will cause a problem for a brother or sister or hurt their faith” (14.13). 
    • And, “Don’t allow what is good for you to become something they say is evil” (16). 
    • And, “Let’s try as hard as we can to do what will bring peace. Let’s do whatever will help each other grow stronger in faith” (19). 
    • Finally, “You should keep your beliefs about these things a secret between yourself and God. It is a blessing to be able to do what you think is right without feeling guilty” (Rom 14.22). 
  • Perhaps the biggest aspect of Jesus’s sacrifice was to become human and stay that way for our sake (cf. I Tim 2.5; Phil 3.20-21; I Jn 3.2-3). He is still human now, though in the kind of perfect body we’ll enjoy when he comes back for us. 
  • God never calls Christians to publicly protest the evil behavior practiced by the world. In fact, he expects the opposite from his children (I Tim 2.1-4; I Cor 6.2; Rom 13.2; I Pt 2.11-17). 

Planning And Preparing

Brady Baughman

Usually, people fall into 1 of 2 categories: List makers and everyone else and I don’t know what their collective is since I’ve never seen it written down. Now, myself being an introvert, I fall into the list maker category. I’m not obsessive about keeping a physical list, but a mental list is always there to almost a point of paranoia. But this list is necessary.

Me being an introvert, I need to have mentally prepared myself for what is going to happen. If there is a surprise I could freeze up. In order for me to be productive and effective I have to be prepared and anticipate all that is going to happen that day. This leads us into the lesson of being prepared for our future, specifically, by our past planning and future execution with our decisions at a high level overview.

Look with me in 1 Corinthians‬ ‭15:12-18.
[12] Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? [13] But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. [14] And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain. [15] We are even found to be misrepresenting God, because we testified about God that he raised Christ, whom he did not raise if it is true that the dead are not raised. [16] For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised. [17] And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. [18] Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished.

The part that I want to key in on is in vs 17. Now let’s look at vs 17 again with another lens. vs 17, if Christ has not been raised then your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. The other lens would say that a life of sin and without Christ is futile. Our whole existence, purpose, importance, any other strong words that you would want to add to that list, is futile.

Mounce defines futile as idle, ineffective, worthless, 1Co 3:20; groundless, deceptive, fallacious, 1Co 15:17; useless, fruitless, unprofitable. Reinforcing the idea throughout Scripture that without Christ what we do is useless.

If we continue reading the rest of 1 Corinthians 15 we see the importance of being baptized in ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15:22‬, “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.” And in verse 29 we see Paul asking the question if Jesus was dead what would be the benefit of baptism. It is Christ’s resurrection that gives us victory over death as we see Paul saying in 54 and 55 which is also a quote from Hosanna 13:14. Verse 56 explains briefly the relationship between law and sin, but Christ gives us victory.

So back to verse 17. If we believe in Christ then our life has and is a purpose. Whether it be our past selves or our current selves we know how our plans and preparedness set us up for our future. Are we prepared and ready? Have we done what is needed to secure our plans and not be surprised by our eternity. The great thing about this is we hold all the control in what we decide to do. We are running the race and all we have to do is finish, not be first.

The Profound Power of Forgiveness

Brent Pollard

Recently, I received fantastic news that the Department of Education has wiped out my massive student debt. Like millions of other people, I was still making payments on my student loans. So, my debt wasn’t unique. However, my inability to work due to my disability has made it difficult to make progress toward paying off that debt. I have been participating in the gig economy since 2013, and I must ensure that my assets stay within a specific limit to maintain my health insurance coverage.

When you are on a fixed income, you cannot afford to pay the DOE several hundred dollars monthly. Your loan quickly becomes delinquent. Thus, you can imagine my elation when I recently received an email stating, “The Biden-Harris Administration has forgiven your federal student loan.” My mom joked that the DOE included this information so I would know who to thank in 2024. Whatever the case, her words reminded me of Jesus’ Parable of the Two Debtors. 

And Jesus responded and said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he replied, “Say it, Teacher.” “A moneylender had two debtors: the one owed five hundred denarii, and the other, fifty. When they were unable to repay, he canceled the debts of both. So which of them will love him more?” Simon answered and said, “I assume the one for whom he canceled the greater debt.” And He said to him, “You have judged correctly.” (Luke 7.40-43 NASB)

The Humanity of Judgment

Let’s analyze this parable in its original setting of Luke 7.36-50 and draw some conclusions. The action takes place in the house of a Pharisee. During the meal, a woman notorious for her sins comes up to Jesus and offers Him a profoundly loving and humbling gesture. Simon, a Pharisee, interrupts this moving scene because he cannot overlook the woman’s sins. This reaction serves as a sobering reminder that it’s easy to become like Simon—quick to judge and blind to the splendor of the present because we’re stuck in our preconceived notions.

The Parable of Two Debtors 

Knowing that people were passing judgment on the woman, Jesus tells a simple parable. Two debtors, unable to make payments, have their balances wiped clean by their moneylender. Jesus’ question, “Which of them will love him more?” is profound. Gratitude is the topic of this inquiry. It’s about acknowledging our complete dependence on God and the immensity of His grace toward us. If someone fully comprehends the magnitude of their debt, receiving forgiveness can often overwhelm them with emotion.

The Depth of Love

The unidentified woman showed Jesus not only love but also profound comprehension and gratitude. Grace was something she realized she needed. Her tears reveal her sorrow, and her deeds reveal her love. Unlike Simon, who failed to extend basic courtesies, this woman lavished love on Jesus. She did this not because she felt like she should but because she deeply understood who Jesus is and what He offers.

Forgiveness, the Heart of the Gospel

The words Jesus spoke to the woman, “Your sins have been forgiven,” capture the essence of the Gospel and its power. The love of God brings restoration and redemption. Our faith in Jesus enables us to experience transformative forgiveness as a reminder. The guests’ question, “Who is this man who even forgives sins?” exemplifies the revolutionary nature of Jesus’ message and mission.

A Call to Love and Recognize

The story concludes with a decisive mandate: “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” It’s a call to reckon with our debts, comprehend the immensity of God’s mercy, and respond with profound, genuine, and transformative love.

In Conclusion

Do we love with the same depth and enthusiasm demonstrated by the woman in the Gospel? Or do we hastily pass judgment like Simon? Simon could not recognize the vastness of his debt but was acutely aware of the woman’s transgressions. His narrow perspective caused him to overlook the basic courtesies expected of a host. On the other hand, the woman was mindful of her need for grace, which led her to make a costly sacrifice by anointing Jesus.

Let us pray that Christ’s boundless love and forgiveness reshape us. May we recognize our need for grace and be ever receptive to His love, becoming instruments of His grace for all around us.

Calling On The Name Of The Lord

Carl Pollard

Growing up our parents had a hard time calling us. I’d be in the living room and dad would say, “Gary-Er Dale-I mean Carl!” This would happen almost every time they would call for us. I don’t think this is a problem unique to our family. This is a problem that almost every parent has, and I know that once our daughter is born I’ll get Rich and Amara mixed up. 

Similar to our parents calling for us, there’s a phrase used in scripture that sounds almost identical. In various texts throughout scripture you’ll come across the phrase, “call on the name of the Lord.” There’s a lot of confusion surrounding this phrase, so let’s take a few moments to figure out what it means, and what it looks like to call on the name of the Lord. 

In Acts 2:21 Peter uses this phrase, but to get a better idea of the context and meaning we need to start in the book of Joel. In this short book there are a few important facts we need to recognize. Not much is said about Joel, but many believe that he ministered to those in Judah. In this prophecy to Israel He speaks of a plague of locusts and tells the people that it represented the coming day of the Lord.

These locust would bring complete and total destruction. The day of the Lord was a time greatly anticipated by Israel because they believed that God would then judge the nations and restore Israel to her former glory. But Joel says that God would punish not only the nations but unfaithful Israel as well. This day of the Lord was going to be like nothing they were expecting. Joel urges everyone to repent, and told of a day when God would “pour out [his] Spirit on all flesh” (2:28). That day arrived on Pentecost (Acts 2:17). In the middle of the book Joel arrives at the peak of his writing and in verse 32 he says this, “And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” 

Peter uses this exact quote In his sermon on the day of Pentecost. We read the same phrase in Romans 10:13 when Paul says, “For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” We now know the origin of this phrase, but what does it mean? How do we call on the name of the Lord? Some believe that in order to be saved all you need to do is literally call out the Lords name. Others say that calling on the name of the Lord means praying a certain prayer in order to be saved.

In Acts 2, we can see an example of what it means to call on the name of the Lord.

It Requires a Proper Attitude. The Israelites thought that the Lord was theirs to control. They thought He would bend to their wills and wishes. They wanted the day of the Lord to be a day that would liberate Israel. And so they spun this phrase to fit their narrative, to the point that their meaning for the day of the Lord was the exact opposite of its true meaning. Joel and Peter clear up the air and explain who God really is. He’s not a gene, he’s not our puppet, He has a will of his own that we are to conform to. Calling on the name of the Lord requires a proper attitude. An attitude of submission to God and His will. An attitude of humility, recognizing our failures, and understanding Gods perfection. 

The Israelites had it all wrong, and sadly sometimes we are the same way. We want God to make us happy. To grant every request we bring to him. We go to Him in prayer with everything that is wrong in our lives and say, “Okay God, fix it.” If what we pray for doesn’t happen, we think God didn’t answer. God always answers us, but the answer is sometimes “no.” Jesus in the garden asked God to take away His responsibility of going to the cross, but He was still crucified. Paul asked God to remove the thorn in his flesh, and the answer was no. God knows just what we need, what is best for us in the long term. We should never treat prayer as a gene in a lamp. 

This is not what calling on the name of the Lord means. The Greek word for call is Kaleo, in this context it is the act of calling upon deity. The reason we call upon deity is because we understand our own imperfection. We need help seeing God’s will. Not our own like Israel did. 

Calling on the name of the Lord requires a proper attitude, one of humility and understanding. And now more than ever we need to call on the Lord in order to find salvation.

Such A Sharp Disagreement!

Neal Pollard

How many times has it happened that two Christians had such different ideas and drew such different conclusions that it affected their ability to work together? Often, this rift permanently affects the relationship. They don’t speak to each other and even speak poorly of each other. Such a reaction actually hurts the influence and progress of the church, and it contradicts the biblical remedy (Rom. 12:17-18; Mat. 5:23-24). 

In Acts 15, as is often the case when these schisms occur, the parties involved are actually trying to do good for the Lord. After the Jerusalem meeting (15:1-35), Paul suggests to Barnabas that they “return and visit the brethren in every city in which we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are” (36). Barnabas loved the idea. These men had obviously worked well together (ch. 13-14). From the earliest days of his conversion, Paul had had an advocate and supporter in Barnabas (9:26-31). They had been in some difficult trenches on the first journey. In other words, they had forged a strong bond.

But, trouble arose! “Barnabas wanted to take John, called Mark, along with them also. But Paul kept insisting that they should not take him along who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work” (37-38). Barnabas was ever the encourager (4:36). John Mark was his cousin (Col. 4:10), which had to have complicated the situation for him. Paul was a tenacious go-getter, willing to risk his neck for the gospel. Did he see John Mark as soft, unreliable, or immature? 

There is no doubt that this created so much friction that the Holy Spirit through Luke calls it a “sharp disagreement” (39). This word, when used physically, described an attack of fever at its highest point–which often causes delirium! It was an irritation that reached exasperation. It was so bad that they separated from one another. This could have been the pathetic ending of so much global evangelism. They could have gotten out their competing scrolls and “written each other up” across the brotherhood, or posted on some ancient equivalent of social media about how much of a victim they were or how evil each other was. We have seen such small-mindedness in our own day. But, what did they do?

Barnabas went ahead and took Mark and they sailed to Cyprus (39). Paul took Silas with him, sent by the Antioch church and “strengthening the churches” (40-41). Luke traces the rest of Paul’s heroic, faithful mission work throughout the rest of the book of Acts. What about Barnabas? It appears that the Holy Spirit is pretty silent about his activity after their parting of the ways (1 Cor. 9:6; Gal. 2:1ff seem to record events during the first missionary journey or before). Yet, his legacy is implied through the mention of John Mark. When Paul was in prison, after his missionary journeys are done, he calls him “my fellow worker” (Phile. 24). He recommends Mark to the church at Colossae about the same time (4:10). Some of Paul’s last recorded words are, “Pick up Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for service” (2 Tim. 4:11). 

Does that sound like the Hatfields and McCoys? Does it sound like competitors and enemies? They could not resolve their difference and they went their separate ways, but they remained brethren. Apparently, they continued to work together even if in different ways. Perhaps they might say they regretted letting this disagreement get so sharp, but they did not let it distract them from the mission. May that spirit live in you and me today! 

Revelation’s Resounding Relevance In A Changing World

Brent Pollard

Historically, I’ve seen the Book of Revelation as rooted in a bygone era, primarily relevant to the early Christians of the first and second centuries. Therefore, Revelation 2.10, which urged faithfulness to achieve eternal life, crystallized the central message for contemporary Christians. Earlier readings of Revelation painted it as a cryptic missive, but recent interactions, set against the backdrop of current news and social media, have reshaped my understanding of its relevance to our times. (And, no, I’m not referring to premillennial notions of the end times.)

Faith & Integrity:

Revelation emphasizes the importance of unwavering allegiance to one’s beliefs. Individuals today frequently navigate the turbulent waters of societal expectations and political correctness, just as early Christians did with the imposing orthodoxy of the Roman Empire. The letters to the seven churches can be read as a call to fortitude, warning against surrendering one’s values to the winds of societal change.

Furthermore, the church in Pergamum, which Jesus chastised for its flirtation with idolatrous teachings, serves as a stark warning against even seemingly minor compromises. Deviating from long-held Biblical teachings for modern ideologies can resemble the ancient seduction of the Imperial Cult.

Perseverance & Opposition:

Revelation encourages perseverance, especially when faced with persecution. Like their forefathers, modern Christians may face scorn or disdain for their steadfast adherence to biblical values. On the other hand, Revelation offers solace by promising rewards for unwavering faith.

Hope & Future:

In the grand narrative, Revelation emphasizes the transient nature of earthly regimes. The predicted demise of “Babylon” (Rome) is a powerful reminder of the transient nature of societal norms and structures. Current political correctness or societal mores are fleeting, particularly when viewed through eternity.

Revelation’s resounding theme is hope despite its occasionally bleak portrayals. Regardless of current challenges, the promise of the New Jerusalem and God’s ultimate triumph herald a brighter horizon.

Discernment & Judgment:

The rich tapestry of symbols and visions in Revelation invites discernment. This challenge reflects today’s environment, which is rife with competing narratives and information overload. The imperative is to cut through the noise and identify truths that align with biblical beliefs.

In conclusion, Revelation is not limited to the period in which John wrote it. It sends an enduring message, urging believers throughout the ages to remain steadfast in the face of external pressures and to cherish the eternal promise. This message emphasizes Revelation’s continuing relevance, encouraging our forefathers and current believers to consider its teachings.

For even more on the book of Revelation, we highly recommend Hiram Kemp’s study of Revelation at Lehman Avenue church of Christ (all archives are on our YouTube page and the class is a little over halfway done.

“You Thought That I Was One Like Yourself”

Neal Pollard

Asaph was a spiritual Renaissance man, a musician (1 Chron. 15:17-19), a worship leader (1 Chron. 16:4-15), a prophet (2 Chron. 29:30), and a poet, whose inspired work is found in twelve of the psalms in the book of Psalms. In numerical order, Psalm 50 comes first. In that psalm, he addresses the whole earth (1-6), His people (7-15), and the wicked (16-23). He establishes His right and power to judge “His people” (4)…”for God Himself is judge” (6). He tells His people that He wants their true worship (7-13), and by giving it they would find a responsive, protecting God (14-15).

How He ends the chapter is jarring! He addresses “the wicked” presumably from among His people. They tell of His statutes and His covenant is in their mouths (16), but they are worldly to the core. They hate His teaching and His Words (17). They love to hang out with dishonest, dishonorable people (18). Their tongue is an unruly evil (19-20). This is a comprehensive and graphic picture of the hypocrite. What emboldened them to live in such an audacious way? God’s silence (21). They thought they were getting away with it because God did not respond to this as He did with Nadab and Abihu (Lev. 10:1-3), Korah and his clan (Num. 16), and Uzzah (2 Sam. 6:7). He says, “These things have you done and I kept silence….” (21a). God explains how one can perceive the lack of immediate punishment as an endorsement of a lifestyle or a mindset, saying, “Because the sentence against an evil deed is not executed quickly, therefore the hearts of the sons of men among them are given fully to do evil” (Ecc. 8:11).

This can cause us to bring God down to our level, to think that He thinks like we think and that He feels like we feel. “You thought I was just like you” (21b). If one is tolerant of sin and permissive of a sinful situation, he or she may naturally think God will overlook it. If one is willing to accept in fellowship a person who is living in rebellion against God’s will, he or she may conclude that God does too. This leads to rationalizing and embracing things God, in His Word, has already declared His thoughts and feelings about. That is why He says, “Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the Lord, and He will have compassion on him, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon” (Isa. 55:7). Like in Psalm 50:21, Isaiah reminds us God’s thoughts and ways are not ours (Isa. 55:8-9).

God longs for a relationship with His people (22-23), but it will be on His terms. If we forget God, the result is frightening (22), but if we honor Him with righteous living He shall “show the salvation of God” (23). For this to occur, we cannot bring God down to our level and think that because we want to endorse willful sin He does, too. There is an enormous difference between wrestling with sin and wallowing in it. The one He sees with compassion, the other He sees with condemnation.

Handed Over To Satan?

Gary Pollard

I Timothy one ends with 19, “Continue to trust God and do what you know is right. Some people haven’t done this and their faith is now in ruins. Hymenaeus and Alexander are men like that. I have given them to Satan so they will learn not to speak against God.” 

This is a difficult passage, but not the only time Paul has used the phrase “given them to Satan.” He also said this in I Corinthians 5.5, which gives us more insight into what this might mean. 

The member in I Corinthians 5 was handed over to Satan for physical punishment so that he could be saved at the end. This appears to be very similar to what Satan was allowed to do in the book of Job — though in these situations, it appears that he has the power to punish Christians physically when they have one foot in the world and one in Christianity, but with a lot more weight on the foot that’s in the world. 

This obviously doesn’t happen to every — or probably even most — Christians who fall away, but I Corinthians 5.5 gives us at least some hope for those who end up in Satan’s hands. This passage uses a phrase that likely means, “I have given Satan permission to kill this person.” But it doesn’t end there: “…so that their spirit will be rescued in the day of the Lord.” The original word used here (ινα or hina) means, “Resulting in,” or, “So that”. It’s used to describe the purpose or intended result of something. 

Perhaps this means that God’s grace will allow some Christians’ physical lives to be lost before they reach the point of no return, ultimately saving their soul. After all, God doesn’t want anyone to die spiritually, but for everyone to be converted (II Pt 3.9), something repeated by Paul in I Timothy 2.4. Even in judgment God shows mercy! 

Christian, Strengthen Your Heart

Carl Pollard

“You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.” James 5:8 

The heart has been a topic that James has mentioned several times in his letter. 

  • 1:26 We can deceive our hearts
  • 3:14 We can fill our hearts with “bitter jealousy and selfish ambition.” 
  • 4:8 We are called to “purify our hearts” 
  • 5:5 Self-indulgence can fatten our hearts for the day of slaughter

But now in contrast, James tells us to strengthen our hearts. He’s not telling us to start a cardio regimen, eat cheerios and take CoQ10. The heart is the center of our thinking. It is what influences our actions. 

When we strengthen our center of thinking, there is a direct correlation to what we will focus on in this life. 

What should be our focus? The coming of the Lord! James tells them that this day was near. Not that the end of the world was at hand, but that through death, the suffering Christian’s he is writing to would be standing before the throne of God very soon. 

This gives us a glimpse into the extent of their suffering. They were so mistreated that they were at the point of death. Rather than worry about self-preservation, think about where you will be the moment you pass from this life. 

We are told that our life is a vapor (James 4:14), here one minute and gone the next. So don’t get so focused on the suffering that you face to the detriment of your soul. If we lose focus on the eternal, what’s the point of prolonging the temporal? 

These poor Christians would have been tempted to do anything they could to take care of their families. James says in verse 9, “Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you yourselves may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing right at the door.”

If you make plans to go over to a friend’s house, your journey begins at home, you get in your car, drive the route, arrive at their home, get out of your car, and go to the door. Entering through the door is the last step before you are in their home. That the Judge is standing right at the door paints the picture that our judgment is right in front of us. Judgment is near, our life is a vapor. Don’t do something in this life that will put you in the same boat as the unrighteous. 

James began his letter with a statement on suffering, and he ends by talking about trials. Suffering can produce endurance (1:2). Suffering can also give us a stronger heart. As Christians in the 21st century we might be tempted to act as though judgment is far off in the future. 

Does the thought of Christ coming back in 30 seconds scare you? If we knew for certain that Christ was coming back in 30 seconds, what would you be thinking?

…Do you feel relieved that it didn’t happen? If so, why? Are you disappointed? The coming of the Lord is near for each one of us. At any moment we could be standing before God. We should live with this thought in mind every day. 

For those who have strengthened their hearts there will be a reward beyond comprehension. When suffering comes, strengthen your heart.

Seeing The Future With Our Family

Carl (and Rich) Pollard

 On February 3, 2018, Robert Meilhammer, 51, of Crapo, Maryland, was struck in the head by a dead Canada goose. The bird that hit him was 14 pounds and had a nearly 6 foot wingspan. It plunged from the sky after a fellow waterfowl hunter fired a blind shot on a flock overhead. Meilhammer was in the midst of a hunting party with three friends in Easton, Maryland. The goose fell about 90 feet, knocking the hunter out instantly and causing head and facial injuries. If you could see what was coming you would prepare. Odds are, if Robert Meilhammer would’ve known about the goose coming he could’ve taken a step forward to keep from getting knocked out. 

If we knew what was coming, we would prepare. Thankfully, we know! God in His love and grace has revealed what is coming and what needs to be done in order to prepare. 

That’s why as a church we come together to remind each other of the day that is coming in the future. We come together to encourage our church family to fight the good fight, keep the faith, and to stay the course. 

Mark 16:16, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. The judgement day is coming and God is clear on what we should be doing. Get prepared and stay prepared through constant fellowship with likeminded brothers and sisters. 

2 Peter 2:9, “then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment.” Does going to church make us more godly or unrighteous? Which one do we want to be on that day of judgment? 

In 2 Timothy 4:7-8 Paul says, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.”

We go to church so we can say what Paul once said. God has revealed to us the future event that is going to take place. Have we fought the good fight? Have we kept the faith? Fighting and faith are strengthened with our church family.