Brief Exhortations And Applications From Various Verses

(Second One Hundred)

Written and/or Compiled by David J. Riggs

Note: These are also available in verse-by-verse format at:

http://mywebpages.comcast.net/davidriggs01/briefvs.htm

101. "Do not let your adornment be merely outward; arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel; rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God." (1 Pet. 3:3-4)

The world puts emphasis on one's outward appearance. Millions of dollars are spent each year on diet, exercise, clothing, and cosmetics, most of which are designed to improve one's outward appearance. Many of those things are superficial measures to make people appear more beautiful than they really are. It is empty and vain to beautify only the outward person. Prov. 31:30 says, "Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised." 1 Sam. 16:7 says, "...The Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."

102. "Wealth makes many friends, but the poor is separated from his friend." (Prov. 19:4) "The sleep of a laboring man is sweet, whether he eats little or much; but the abundance of the rich will not permit him to sleep." (Eccl. 5:12)

Bill Curry of south Boston worked most of his life as a cafeteria cook for the Merit Food Company on a modest income by which he managed to provide for his wife, son, and daughter. When Bill Curry won the state lottery, 3.6 million dollars, his first thought was to buy a Dalmatian puppy for the youngsters. That was the extent of the celebration, but when the parasites converged -- lawyers, investment advisers, accountants, and financial analysts -- he was overwhelmed by them, and by people wanting handouts for all manner of charities. He returned to his job in the cafeteria, but even there financial advisers were everywhere. His nearest relative says there's no doubt about it, in the weeks since he won the lottery, it was not the money that caused his stress but it was all of those people who wanted to deal themselves in. Bill Curry died of a heart attack at age 37. (Associated Press, 9-25-90)

103. "...Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful..." (Rom 1:31)

Paul, in the above passages, is describing the extreme wickedness of the Gentiles. Among other things, he said they were "without natural affection." This phrase comes from one word in the Greek, and means, literally, "to cherish affectionately" but with the negative; thus, "to not cherish affectionately." It is found only in Rom. 1:31 and 2 Tim. 3:3 and is translated "unloving" in the New King James Version, and "inhuman" in the Revised Standard Version.

The word well describes the temperament of many people in our time. Many do not have affection, not even that which is naturally expected of a parent toward a child. God, speaking through Isaiah, said, "Can a woman forget her nursing child, and not have compassion on the son of her womb? Surely they may forget, yet I will not forget you." (Isa. 49:15)

Let us seek to have natural affection toward all, and especially toward those of our own family.

104. "But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people's matters." (1 Pet. 4:15)

The phrase, "busybody in other people's matters" if from a single Greek word, "allotriepishopos" ("allotrious" - "belonging to another person," and "episkopos" - "bishop or overseer"); thus, "an overseer of that which belongs to another."

Let us not be endeavoring to oversee the affairs of others, but tend to our own business. Gal. 6:4 says, "But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another." James 3:13 says, "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom."

105. "And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.' Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, 'Lord, do not charge them with this sin.' And when he had said this, he fell asleep." (Acts 7:59-60)

The above verse says that when Stephen was stoned, he "fell asleep." Our English word "cemetery" comes from this same Greek word which means "the sleeping of the dead." To label "death" as "falling asleep" is a wholesome thought about death rather than the usual harshness men associate with it. Psalm 116:15 says, "Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints." Rev. 14:13 says, "Write: 'Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.' 'Yes,' says the Spirit, 'that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.'"

There have been many unjust killings since the beginning of the world, as was Stephen's. The thing, however, that made Stephen great was not that he was unjustly murdered, but that he died in the Lord. Let us proclaim along with the prophet of old: "Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my end be like his!" (Num. 23:10)

106. "Why then did you not obey the voice of the LORD? Why did you swoop down on the spoil, and do evil in the sight of the LORD? And Saul said to Samuel, 'But I have obeyed the voice of the LORD, and gone on the mission on which the LORD sent me, and brought back Agag king of Amalek; I have utterly destroyed the Amalekites. But the people took of the plunder, sheep and oxen, the best of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice to the LORD your God in Gilgal.'" (1 Sam. 15:19-21)

A cartoon in the New Yorker well illustrates how people want to blame others for their faults. It showed a father scowling over a very bad report card while his little boy stood by, asking, "What do you think it is, Dad? Heredity or environment?"

Let us accept full responsibility for our own sins, repenting of them and striving to do better.

107. "For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." (Heb. 4:12)

By the aid of a new scientific instrument, the ophthalmoscope, with its condensing mirror and myriad of little lenses, the ophthalmologist can look into a person's eye and not only determine approximately the necessary strength of glass required to give perfect vision, but also the existence of tumors pressing on the brain tissue, the conditions of the general nervous system, the presence of disease in various organs, and the richness of the blood current as they are clearly traced on the sensitive plate of natures's camera. (From "Illustrations of Bible Truths," p. 10)

What the ophthalmoscope is to the ophthalmologist, the word of God is much more to our higher nature. The word of God has the vitality and power to determine and repair our spiritual health. Let us study and meditate on it daily because it has the ability and power to mold us into what we ought to be.

108. "...In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works..." (Titus 2:7)

The power of example is seen in this illustration:

A mother and father decided to use psychology in raising their children. For example, at bedtime they would say to the children, "Would you like to take your doll to bed or your teddy bear to bed?" You see, the beauty of this is that in either case the child is choosing to go to bed. The whole system collapsed, however, when the three-year-old, who was never allowed to go out after supper, said to her parents one evening, "Do you want me to go out the back door or should I go out the front?"

Let us remember that our children will follow our ways.

109. "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil." (Eph. 5:15-16)

Twelve things to remember:

1. The value of time.

2. The success of perseverance.

3. The pleasure of working.

4. The dignity of simplicity.

5. The worth of character.

6. The power of kindness.

7. The influence of example.

8. The obligation of duty.

9. The wisdom of economy.

10. The virtue of patience.

11. The improvement of talent.

12. The joy of originating.

(From Marshall Field)

110. "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life." (Gal. 6:7-8)

A farmer posted a "No Trespassing" sign to keep the neighborhood boys from crossing his property. One embittered young man vowed revenge. One night he walked all over the man's farm with a sack of Johnson Grass seed and sowed it in every field. Johnson Grass spreads rapidly and is a weed that is almost impossible to eradicate.

A few years later, the boy married the farmer's only daughter. In a short time, the old man died, and the boy inherited the farm. He spent the rest of his life fighting Johnson Grass.

We reap what we sow both physically and spiritually, both now and in eternity.

111. "He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him." (Psalm 126:6)

There is a story about a man who was treated kindly by people in a remote village in Africa. The man, wanting to show his appreciation, sent the natives a gift. He sent them a sundial thinking that it would help all the people in the village to determine the time of day. The natives were so appreciative of the gift that they built a hut over it to protect it from the elements. Naturally, by thus treating the sundial, they rendered it useless for its designed purpose.

Likewise, we need to show our appreciation of truth by diligently teaching it to others. Seed left in the barn does not produce a crop.

112. "Pray without ceasing." (1 Thess. 5:17) "...Continuing instant in prayer." (Rom. 12:12)

Three people were talking about the "best" position for prayer. One thought it was important to hold one's hands together as he prayed. The second advocated that prayer was best when one was kneeling. The third insisted that standing was a suitable position. As they talked, a telephone repairman listened as he worked on a nearby phone system. Finally, he couldn't contain himself any longer and interjected, "I have found that the most powerful prayer I ever made was while I was dangling upside down from a power pole, suspended 40 feet above the ground!"

113. "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." (Rom. 12:2)

The word "transformed" is from the Greek word "metamorphe," (to transform or change) and is found only in the above verse and in Matt. 17:2 and Mark 9:2 where it is used of the transfiguration of Jesus. It is used in biology with reference to the change of the worm to the butterfly.

Once I put a huge ugly green worm, which I had found in the garden, into a jar. I did this to teach my small daughters the lesson of how a Christian is to be transformed from the world. The worm spun itself into a cocoon, and stayed there several days. One morning we looked into the jar, and there was a very beautiful butterfly. We released it, and it flew away. My girls were so impressed by my illustration that they filled the whole house with jars, with worms in them!

In biology the emphasis is on the outward transformation; but in Christianity, it is on the inward.

114. "...From whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love." (Eph. 4:16)

There is a very old illustration which shows that each one must do his part. There were four brothers who once decided they would give a feast for their friends. Wine in those days was expensive, and the boys decided that each one would buy a certain amount of wine, bring it to the feast, pour it into a large container, and it would be served to their guests. One of the boys thought that instead of buying wine he would just bring water and pour it into the large container. He knew it would weaken the wine somewhat, but since the wine would only be one fourth water, no one would know the difference. The story goes that when the wine was taken out of the large container to be served to the guests, it was all water. None of the boys had done their part in buying wine for their guests.

The growth and edification of the body of Christ depends on the effective working of each and every member.

115. "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." (Heb. 10:24-25)

Some time ago, Paul Harvey reported of a 73-year old man who had been pinned beneath his farm tractor for four days and nights in driving rain and a terrible storm. Concerned friends went to see about him just in time. He survived the ordeal, but lost a leg below the knee. Several newspapers picked up on the story and centered on the amazing fact that a 73-year old man could live after being pinned beneath a tractor for four days and nights in such bad weather.

What is even more amazing about this news report is the reason his friends were compelled to check on him. One fellow said it best: "He missed worship services on Wednesday night!" That's all? Yes! He was always so faithful in attendance that simply missing one worship service caused his brethren to check on him. Not only should the older brother be commended for His faithfulness, but his brethren need to also be praised for their genuine concern for their brother.

116. "But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes." (2 Tim. 2:23)

While Abraham Lincoln was a lawyer, he was called on to be the arbitrator in many disputes. On one occasion, two men had been arguing for hours about the correct proportion of the length of a man's legs to the size of his body. They finally called on Lincoln to settle the question. After listening intently to the points on both sides, he stated that it seemed to him that this was a question of the utmost significance and one that had caused much bloodshed in the past and would doubtless do so again in the future. He concluded by saying, "It is my opinion, all side issues being swept aside, that a man's lower limbs, in order to preserve harmony of proportion, should be at least long enough to reach from his body to the ground."

"But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless." (Titus 3:9)

117. "Take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given. For whoever has, to him more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him." (Mark 4:24-25)

The expression, "Use it or lose it" is often heard in regard to physical exercise. Muscles must be used in order to insure their greater use in the future. To fail to use one's muscles will lead to the loss of strength one presently has.

The same is true concerning spiritual things. Regarding hearing and understanding God's word, the Lord warns, more or less, "Use it or lose it." Matthew's account says, "For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him." (Matt. 13:12)

118. "If the ax is dull, and one does not sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; but wisdom brings success." (Eccl. 10:10)

In accord with the above verse there is an old illustration regarding Bible study which says, "The woodsmen who sharpens his ax is not wasting his time, nor is the one who sharpens his senses on the Word of God before he attempts to teach."

Let us be diligent in our efforts in studying and teaching the Word of God.

119. "Because the LORD has been witness between you and the wife of your youth, with whom you have dealt treacherously; yet she is your companion and your wife by covenant." (Mal. 2:14)

Children are more likely to suffer from depression when they grow up if their parents divorce, than if one dies. (University of Michigan, Survey of 2,867 people)

"For the LORD God of Israel says that He hates divorce, for it covers one's garment with violence, says the LORD of hosts." (Mal. 2:16) "Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband." (Eph. 5:33)

Let us work at making our marriages as God intended them to be.

120. "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled." (2 Cor. 10:3-6)

Please notice that Paul uses the word "weapon" in the plural (not "weapon," but "weapons"). Thus, the Christian has, not just one, but numerous weapons at his disposal in his spiritual warfare. Some of those weapons are: prayer, love, truth, example, etc. Please notice also that the Christian's main battle begins, and should end, in his own mind; e.g., "bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ." Jesus said, "What comes out of a man, that defiles a man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within and defile a man." (Mark 7:20-21)

Let us keep our hearts with all diligence for out of it are the issues of life. (Prov. 4:23)

121. "In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace..." (Eph. 1:7)

Suppose that a man rented a large field from another and promised to pay a thousand dollars for the rental at the end of the year. The agreement is signed. If the harvest has been poor because of drought, pests, storms, poor fertilizing, or whatever, the man who rented the field may wish he had never signed the agreement. He may wish that the owner take half of the harvest instead of demanding cash. However, the agreement had been signed and there is nothing to do but abide by it.

If, however, the owner should say that he would accept fifty bushels of corn instead of the money, compliance would put an end to the agreement. If the owner should say he would accept twenty bushels of grain, that is the end of the matter. If the owner should say that he would free the man from his debt if he would sing him a song, that ends the matter. It is the owner who must be satisfied.

God must be satisfied in the matter of our sin. When one believes and obeys the Lord, God declares a man free from his sin. God declares Himself fully satisfied because of what the Lord has done for us. Thanks be to God for His unspeakable gift.

122. "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection." (Col. 3:12-14)

It is said that in Polynesia, where the natives spend so much time fighting, it is customary for each man to keep some reminders of his hatred. Articles are suspended from the roofs of their huts to keep alive the memories of the wrongs they have suffered.

Love demands that Christians forgive and forget. "And above all things have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins." (1 Pet. 4:8)

123. "And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? I tell you that He will avenge them speedily." (Luke 18:7-8)

When the road of life is so steep that it causes us to weep, prayer in the action that gives us traction.

124. "He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned." (Mark 16:16)

People often ask, "Is a man lost just because he is not baptized?" Actually, he is lost because he is a sinner. If a man who can't swim falls into a lake and a boat is sent, but he won't get into the boat, is he drowning because he won't get into the boat? No, he is drowning because he is in the water. Likewise, a man is not lost just because he is not baptized, but is lost because he is in sin. Just as the boat is the means of rescue and one must get into it, the gospel is the means of salvation and must be obeyed (baptism included) to rescue from sin.

125. "All too well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition." (Mark 7:9) "Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ." (Col. 2:8)

A young married lady was fixing a fancy ham dinner for her husband. As she was about to place the ham into the oven, she took a knife and cut off the end of the ham. Her husband asked, "Why did you cut the end off of the ham?" She replied, "I don't know; that's the way mamma always did it." Later, at the family reunion the young couple asked mother why she always cut off the end of the ham. She answered, "That's the way mamma always did it." They went to grandmother and asked her why she cut off the end of her hams. She likewise replied, "That's the way mother always did it." They then found great-grandmother who was still living at the time, and asked her why she always cut the ham's end off, and she said, "I cut the end of the ham off because my pan was too small!"

Likewise, in religion many follow the traditions and doctrines of men without question or investigation and, friends, it is of far more serious consequence than losing the end of hams.

126. "Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband." (Eph. 5:33)

A marriage may be "made in heaven" but its maintenance must be done on earth. A wife once said, "It takes both of us to take out the garbage. I can't carry it, and my husband can't remember it." Marriage is man and woman pulling together, not in competition, but with mutual love and respect for each other. Being happily married in the "maintenance" of love.

127. "And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord." (Eph. 6:4)

Dr. James Dobson reports the findings of an interesting study done on school children recently in his film series "Focus on the Family." He said, "A group of educators decided to remove the chain-link fences from around the school playgrounds. They believed the fences promoted feelings of confinement and restraint. The curious thing they noticed, however, was that as soon as the fences were removed, the children huddled in the center of the playground to play. Conclusion: Children need boundaries."

"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." (Prov. 22:6)

128. "And this occurred because of false brethren secretly brought in (who came in by stealth to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage)..." (Gal. 2:4)

The word "stealth" (in the above verse, NKJV) means "having or providing the capacity to evade detection; e.g, a thief, or an airplane." (Webster) The "stealth bomber" has the ability to evade radar and from this its gets its name. Error can slip in by stealth, secretly and undetected. Peter warned, "But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies..." (2 Pet. 2:1)

129. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." (2 Cor. 5:17)

The program committee for a national barber's convention came up with a startling means of demonstrating the effectiveness of their profession. They found an old man, a social derelict on skid row, with long, dirty hair. His face was unshaven, and his clothes were ragged and filthy. His body reeked with odors of cheap liquor and filth. The barbers cleaned him up, gave him a bath, shampoo, shave, haircut, and manicure. They liberally sprinkled talcum powder on him and added spicy cologne. He was dressed in a new suit and was presented before the convention as a changed man. He certainly looked the part. However, within a week the man was back on skid row, back in the gutter, and back in his former pattern of life. The barbers altered his outward appearance, but their services had not changed his inward nature. Anyone who has money can put an old man in a new suit, but only Christ can put a new man in an old suit.

130. "...Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord..." (Eph. 5:19)

A television documentary on foreign countries showed a family that had a rotating wheel in their home, which was used with praying. Supposedly, when the wheel was spun, it sent the worshiper's prayers up to God. In one's worship, there is no difference in praying and singing with an instrument. Both violate the principles of faith (2 Cor. 5:7), make void the word of God (Mark 7:13), and reject Christ's authority (Col. 3:17).

131. "Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul..." (1 Pet. 2:11)

The word "pilgrims" in the Greek is "parepidemos" which is a combination of three words: para - (alongside of), epi - (upon), demos - (people of a foreign country or city). Thayer defines it: "One who comes from a foreign country into a city or land to reside there by the side of the natives...in the NT metaph. in reference to heaven as the native country, one who sojourns on earth..." Zondervan Pictorial Encyclopedia Of The Bible says of the word, "One who stays in a place as a stranger or visitor; to describe Christians whose final citizenship is in heaven and who are regarded as temporary dwellers on earth."

With reference to life on this earth, we are but strangers and pilgrims, passing through, and we will not let earthly lusts take control or win the battle for our souls.

132. "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up." (2 Pet. 3:10)

The word "elements" means "the substance of the material world" (Vine's Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words, p. 196). Some try to evade the teaching of 2 Pet. 3:10 by saying that the word "earth" in the verse is simply talking about ungodly men as in verse 6. However, please notice that verses 6 and 10 do not use the same words, e.g., "world" and "earth."

Some try to evade the truth of the verse by translating the last word "burned up" as, "discovered." (See the New World Translation). Remember, Peter had already said that the elements would melt with fervent heat. This includes the earth. The original Greek word found in a few manuscripts and falsely translated "discovered" means "discovered for destruction." "...Shall be found for destruction." (Thayer's Greek English Lexicon, p. 261)

There's coming a great day when the earth and all its works will be burned up. Let us not let that day overtake us unprepared.

133. "Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them." (Eph. 5:10-11) "...That you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." (Rom. 12:2)

After a particular department store had taken in several counterfeit bills, law officials asked the manager if he was willing to go to Washington on an all-expense-paid trip for a two week study on counterfeit. After the manager had gone to Washington, taken the course, and returned home, his friends asked him, "How much counterfeit did they show you?" He answered, "None. The entire course consisted of a detailed study of the real money." He added, "The teachers worked on the principle that people could easily spot a counterfeit if they knew the genuine well."

Today, there are a host of different churches teaching conflicting and contradictory doctrines. To find the truth within this maze of confusion, one must know the genuine well. With a thorough knowledge of the New Testament, one can easily identify the Lord's church. Without it, invariably, he will accept a counterfeit.

134. "I went out full, and the LORD has brought me home again empty. Why do you call me Naomi, since the LORD has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me?" (Ruth 1:21)

Naomi mourned over her situation when she returned from Moab to her homeland. She said that she went out full but came home empty.

The prodigal son went out full but came home empty. He said, "How many of my father's hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!" (Luke 15:17)

Many leave the true spiritual riches looking for happiness and pleasure in the things of this world only to return home empty. Let us seek "that good part which shall never be taken away." (Luke 10:42).

135. "But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away." (1 Cor. 13:8-10)

A gospel preacher in a religious debate on miraculous gifts, after citing Mark 16:20; 1 Cor. 13:8-10 and other passages, illustrated the purpose and passing of supernatural gifts by the scaffold. He said that the gifts were to the written New Testament as a scaffold is to a new building. When a building is being built, the scaffold is used in aiding its construction, but once it is completed, the scaffold is removed. Similarly, once the written New Testament was completed, being duly confirmed as the word of God, the miraculous gifts were no longer needed and were done away.

His opponent, when it was his time to speak, replied by saying that it would be perfectly suitable to replace the scaffold from time to time to make repairs on the building. He said that scaffolds are often replaced and, likewise, miraculous gifts often reappear from time to time. The gospel preacher, at his time, responded by saying that he would gladly grant his opponent's affirmation, if there ever came a time when the written New Testament needed repairs!

136. "God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." (Gal. 6:14)

An old familiar hymn begins by saying, "When I survey the wondrous cross." Thus, let us briefly survey the cross of Christ." By the cross, men are reconciled to God. "...That He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross" (Eph. 2:16). Christ "...made peace through the blood of His cross" (Col. 1:20). Thereupon He bore our sins. "...Who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness; by whose stripes you were healed." (1 Pet. 2:24) Therein He "through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God" (Heb. 9:14), and "obtained eternal redemption" (Heb. 9:12).

The hymn closes by saying, "Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all." Let us take up our cross daily and follow Him.

137. "...Just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself..." (Eph. 1:4-5)

Some do not understand the above passage on predestination. They think that if a person is not of those predestinated, he is just out of luck, is eternally damned, and there is nothing he can do about it. However, it is a particular group or class of people that God chose before the foundation of the world and not individuals. It is up to us to be part of that class (of those "in Him") if we want to be of the chosen.

A school teacher on the first day of class told his students that some would pass and some would fail the course they were about to take. He then described the things necessary for one to be of those who would pass. At the end of the school year, just as the teacher had said, some passed and some failed. Since the teacher had predestinated the outcome before he began, does it mean that he caused each individual to either pass or fail and there was nothing they could do about it? Certainly not! It was up to each student to be of whichever group he desired. Likewise, God predetermined before He made the world that He would choose those "in Christ" and now it is up to us to be of those in Christ.

138. "And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years." (Rev. 20:4)

Premillennialists claim that Rev. 20:4-6 teaches the following: "At the Second Coming, Christ is coming back to the earth to reign on the throne of David in Jerusalem with all the saints for a thousand years." It is strange indeed that the millennialists can see all of those things in a text which mentions none of them!

Old time gospel preachers often put the premillennial theory on the blackboard and then erased the things that are not found in Rev. 20:4-6. For example, the verses say nothing about the Second Coming of Christ (they erased it). They say nothing about Christ coming back to the earth (no passage in the New Testament teaches that Christ will set foot on the earth again (they erased it). They say nothing about the throne of David (erased). They say nothing about Jerusalem (erased). They say nothing about the saints reigning (only that souls reigned - erased). Thus, they showed by this simple illustration that the great proof text of the millennialists does not teach their theory at all. It doesn't mention it, touch on it, nor give the slightest hint about it.

139. "Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband." (Eph. 5:33)

In the early pioneer days there was an older couple who seemingly could not get along because they fought and quarreled continually, and had done so for many years. A new preacher moved into the area and, when he heard of their evil habit, paid them a visit. He said to them, "If you will cooperate, I will teach you a simple lesson that will help you." When they had agreed, he threw a rope up over a tree limb and asked each one to pull on the end of the rope. After they had pulled hard against each other for a while, he asked them to stop, and said, "Now, I want each of you to pull on the same end of the rope." When they did so, they very easily pulled the rope over the tree limb. The preacher said, "Pull together, and not against each other!" He then jumped in his buggy and rode off.

140. "He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, 'to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,' and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." (Luke 1:17)

Part of the work of John the baptist was to turn the disobedient to the wisdom of the just. The people of his day had drifted from God and disobedience was prevalent. John had to teach them the wisdom of the righteous who obey God. This would prepare them for the kingdom.

Likewise, today, man has drifted from God and needs to be taught the importance of obedience. Jesus said, "But why do you call Me 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do the things which I say?" (Luke 6:46). The Hebrew writer said, "And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him..." (Heb. 5:9). Obedience is an important part of the kingdom.

141. "In that day I will perform against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house, from beginning to end. For I have told him that I will judge his house forever for the iniquity which he knows, because his sons made themselves vile, and he did not restrain them. (1 Sam. 3:12-13)

Some say, "We will not influence our children in making choices and decisions in matters of religion." But why not? The TV will! The movies will! The neighbors will! The music will! The video games will! The press will! The magazines will! The politicians will! Their friends will! The forces of sin will!

"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." (Prov. 22:6)

142. "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man's all. For God will bring every work into judgment, Including every secret thing, Whether good or evil." (Eccl. 12:13-14)

At one time, Daniel Webster was considered the greatest of all living Americans. He was outstanding as a statesman, lawyer, orator, and leader of men. Twenty-five national leaders attended a select banquet in his honor. One man at the banquet asked Mr. Webster, "Sir, what is the greatest thought that ever entered your mind?" Without hesitation, Webster replied, "The greatest thought that ever entered my mind was the thought of my responsibility to God." As he spoke, he wept, excused himself from the banquet, and went outside to get control of his emotions. When he returned, he talked for thirty minutes about man's responsibility to God. (From Carl G. Johnson, Bethany Fellowship Press)

143. "...And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." (Luke 24:47)

Because of the intense competition in the automobile industry, car makers try to keep their design breakthroughs secret. A company that can offer a new and desirable feature on its cars gains a coveted selling edge in a tough market. That's why it was surprising when a Mercedes-Benz ad showed one of their cars being crashed into a brick wall during a safety test. The way it withstood the impact revealed that its energy-absorbing construction could save lives. Even though Mercedes-Benz holds the patent on the safety design, competitors were free to use it because the company does not enforce its claim. When asked why, the automaker's spokesman replied, "Because some things in life are too important not to share."

Likewise, the good news of forgiveness through Christ is too important not to share.

144. "Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life." (Prov. 4:23)

A teenage girl walked into the kitchen and asked her mother, "Can I go to an adult movie with my friends tonight?" She pleaded, "Their parents let them go, and if they can go, why can't I go?" Her mother was preparing a salad for the evening meal, and as she said, "Yes, you can go," she took a handful of pealings and cuttings from the vegetables and threw them into the salad. Her daughter said excitedly, "Mother, why did you do that?" She answered, "I thought if you didn't care about garbage in your mind, you wouldn't object to a little garbage in you stomach!" As the teenager carefully picked the refuse out of the salad, she said, "I think I'll tell my friends that I'll stay home tonight."

145. "Then the serpent said to the woman, 'You will not surely die. For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.' So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate." (Gen. 3:4-6)

Involved in Eve's disobedience was hearing a lie, believing a lie, and acting upon a lie. When the Serpent told her that eating the forbidden fruit would make her like God, knowing good and evil, she actually believed it, but her belief alone in this instance did not constitute disobedience. When she acted upon her faith, her disobedience was then consummated. Similarly, for one to become a Christian, he must hear the truth, believe the truth, and act upon the truth. Believing alone is not enough; one must act upon what he believes.

146. "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps..." (1 Pet. 2:21)

"To help enhance the experience of tourists who want to retrace Jesus' steps through the Holy Land, Israel's National Parks Authority has approved plans for a slightly submerged bridge in the Sea of Galilee at Capernaum so that visitors can 'walk on water' at the site Jesus supposedly did 2000 years ago. The bridge will not have rails, but lifeguards and rescue boats will be stationed nearby in case of accident." (From Associated Press)

We should seek to walk in the steps of Jesus by living as He did, and not by some worthless endeavor which clearly demonstrates that we don't have the power or ability to do it in the first place.

147. "...Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." (Heb. 10:25)

There was once a pioneer preacher who was holding a Gospel Meeting, and knowing the membership, and seeing the very poor attendance on the first night, he stayed away the second night. When the brethren asked him where he was, he replied, "If some can stay home, so can I." After this was circulated in the community, the attendance was very good for the rest of the Meeting.

148. "For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it." (Matt. 16:25) "He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life." (John 12:25)

In the movie "The Poseidon Adventure," the ocean liner S.S. Poseidon is on the open sea when it hits a huge storm. Lights go out, smoke pours into rooms and, amid all the confusion, the ship flips over. Because of the air trapped inside the ocean liner, it floats upside down. In the confusion, the passengers can't figure out what's going on. They scramble to get out, mostly by following the steps to the top deck. The problem is, the top deck is now 100 feet under water. In trying to get to the top of the ship, they drown. The only survivors are the few who do what doesn't make sense. They did the opposite of what everyone else was doing and climbed up into the dark belly of the ship until they reach the hull. Rescuers hear them banging and cut them free. (From "Men of Integrity," Vol. 1, No. 2)

There are a few good people who do what makes no sense. They empty themselves in order to be full; admit they are wrong so they can be declared right; die so they can live; forsake in order to have; give so they can keep.

149. "Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." (Acts 2:38)

Sometimes when we consider what a passage does not say, God's truth is vividly impressed on our minds. When those Jews on the day of Pentecost asked Peter and the rest of the apostles what to do to be saved, Peter did not say, "You are already saved since you have faith." He did not say, "Pray through to be saved," or, "Come to the mourner's bench or prayer altar." He did not say, "Accept Christ as your personal Savior," or "Just call on the name of the Lord." He did not say, "Confess that God for Christ's sake has pardoned your sins." Instead, Peter said, "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."

150. "Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity." (1 Tim. 4:12)

The November 1991 edition of Smithsonian describes the life of a red squirrel which had taken up residence in a bat house attached to the side of a tree. Once, when a youngster climbed out and fell to the ground, the mother rescued him and brought him back up to the house and repeatedly tried to stuff him back into the hole. However, it resisted her every attempt. It clung to the sides of the hole, wriggled in protest, and flattened its body. Finally, the mother tried another tactic. She jumped in and out of the hole several times. Finally, the youngster followed her.

Likewise, let us exemplify Christianity in our thoughts, speech, and conduct.

151. "...Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus..." (Rom. 3:24)

There is a "cheap grace" that is being emphasized in the religious world today. "Cheap grace" is the grace one bestows on himself. "Cheap grace" is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without commitment, and fellowship without obedience. "Cheap grace" is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, and grace without Christ.

"Costly grace" is the rule of Christ in one's heart. "Costly grace" causes one to take up his cross daily and follow the Lord. "Costly grace" causes one to deny ungodliness and worldly lust, and live soberly, righteously and godly in this present world.

152. "Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door." (James 5:9)

Renowned British novelists William Thackeray and Charles Dickens once had a vicious quarrel. Just before Christmas in 1863 they met in London, but refused to speak with one another. Pricked in his conscience, Thackeray turned back and seized the hand of his friend, saying he couldn't bear the coldness between them. Dickens was touched, and the old anger and jealousy gave way to reconciliation. Shortly afterward, Thackeray suddenly died. Reflecting on this incident, a man who knew both Thackeray and Dickens wrote in his memoirs, "The next time I saw Dickens he was standing at the grave of his rival. He must have rejoiced, I thought, that he had shaken hands so warmly a few days before."

"You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself..." (Lev. 19:18)

153. "You ran well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth?" (Gal. 5:7)

The Galatian Christians had started the race well but had not continued. There are many hindrances to running the Christian race well. Satan hinders the sinner from becoming a Christian, and the Christian from living a faithful, consecrated life. We will be judged in the last day on the basis of our success in overcoming the hindrances. Let us lay aside all encumbrances, leave every sinful vice, and run with patience the race that is set before us.

154. "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 'Honor your father and mother,' which is the first commandment with promise: 'that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.'" (Eph. 6:1-3)

Ancient history records that a certain city was besieged, and at length was obliged to surrender. In the city there were two brothers, who had, in some way, obligated the conquering general and, consequently, received permission to leave the city before it was set on fire, taking with them as much of their property as each could carry. Accordingly, the two young men appeared at the gate of the city, one of them carrying their father, and the other their mother.

155. "Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. He laid hold of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years..." (Rev. 20:1-2)

The above verses speak of Satan being bound; however, 1 Pet. 5:8 speaks of Satan walking about as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Satan is bound in much the same way as a dog chained to a wire between two trees. The dog can manipulate only within the limited distance between the trees and to the length of the chain from side to side. Likewise, Satan is bound and cannot tempt men above that which they are able to bear (1 Cor. 10:13).

156. "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil." (Eph. 5:15-16)

It's difficult to comprehend the waste from watching television. By the age of 20, the average American will have been exposed to at least 20,000 hours of television. Calculate for a moment what could be done with even a part of those hours. 5,000 hours are what a typical college undergraduate spends working on a bachelor's degree. In 10,000 hours, you could have learned enough to become a doctor, lawyer, or an engineer. In that time, you could have learned to speak several languages fluently. You could have learned to read the Bible in both the original Greek and Hebrew. You would have had enough time to walk completely around the world and written two books about it.

We will give an account to our Creator as to how we have used our time. Let us use it wisely.

157. "For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life." (2 Cor. 2:15-16)

"The same sun that melts the wax hardens the clay." The preaching of the gospel softens the hearts of some, but hardens the hearts of others. The hardening and softening effect is seen in the reaction of the two thieves on the crosses. One was not touched as he witnessed the suffering and dying Savior. He continued to multiply his sins by railing on the Lord. He refused to listen to his fellow thief, and went to his death with an hardened and impenitent heart. The other thief is moved and touched by the sight of the suffering Savior. He rebuked his dying comrade, acknowledged his own sinfulness, proclaimed the innocence of the Lord, and made a humble plea to the Lord to remember him. Thus, he went to his death with the kind of heart that brings marvelous and glorious rewards.

What is your reaction to the gospel of Christ?

158. "For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another!" (Gal. 5:13-15)

Well trained bird dogs are a marvelous sight to behold as they work the brushy fields. They work hard at sniffing out the game birds. They are trained so that when they eventually find the birds, they will freeze in a pointing stance. Often, the dogs shake and tremble as they are in their frozen position. It is against their nature to stand and do nothing. When the hunter gets into position, he gives the command and the dogs flush out the birds. The hunter shoots the birds as they fly off, and the dogs find the dead ones and bring them to the hunter. Well trained bird dogs all work together in their task of hunting birds. However, when the dogs are back in their pens, they often bark and growl at one another. With no birds to hunt, they often turn to bite and snap at each another.

Likewise, when Christians are not busy in the Lord's work, they often bite and devour one another. Let us, through love, be busy in our service to one another, and in reaching lost souls for Christ. Biting and devouring leads to self destruction.

159. "Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: on the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come." (1 Cor. 16:1-2)

1 Cor. 16:1-2 gives authority for the church to have a treasury. The word, "in store" "storing up" is from the root word "treasury" in the original Greek. Some have raised the question, "Doesn't 1 Cor. 16:1-2 give authority ONLY regarding collections for poor saints?" We answer: It gives authority for collections for poor saints; however, Psalm 119:160 shows that the entirety ("sum" ASV) of God's Word is truth. In as much as 1 Cor. 16:1-2 are the only verses in the N.T. which describe how the church is to obtain its funds, they constitute God's will regarding how church funds are to be raised.

A certain Christian was heard complaining, "The church costs too much. They are always asking for money." Another lady answered, "Some time ago, a little boy was born in our home. He cost us a lot of money from the very beginning; he had a big appetite, he needed clothes, medicine, and toys. Then he went to school, and that cost a lot more. Later he went away to college, and that cost us a small fortune. But in his senior year at college he died, and since the funeral, he hasn't cost us a penny. Now which situation do you think we would rather have?"

160. "Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them." (Heb. 7:25)

When we see the above passage, we usually think of the Lord's ability to save the lost sinner from sin. Yes, He is more than able to save every penitent believer. He can and will save every human being who draws night to God through obedience to Him. However, the Lord is able to do much more. He is able to prefect and complete our salvation. He is able to carry us through all temptations, trials, persecutions, and conflicts until He presents us faultless before the throne.

Let us look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Indeed, He is able to save to the uttermost those who draw nigh to God through Him.

161. "There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His. Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest..." (Heb. 4:9-11)

There is nothing better than a time to rest after a long, laborious and strenuous day. In our fast-moving, rat-race type of society, the simple things become precious. We look forward to times when we can have peace and relaxation for ourselves.

There is a better rest that remains for the people of God. God Himself rested on the seventh day after He had created all things and has been resting ever since. Those who are faithful to the Lord will someday cease from their works as God did from His, and enter into the eternal rest. Let us be diligent to enter into that rest.

162. "For when they say, 'Peace and safety!' then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape." (1 Thess. 5:3)

Some time ago a scientific magazine published an article concerning a certain species of alligator. Being lazy beasts, they seldom hunt for their dinner but just wait for their unwary victims to come to them. They lie near the bank with open mouths, acting as if they are dead. Soon flies begin to light on their moist tongues, and several other insects gather. This crowd attracts bigger game. A lizard will crawl up to the alligator to feed on the bugs, then a frog joins the party, and before long the whole zoological garden is there. Suddenly, there is a great "earthquake" -- WHAM -- the giant jaws come together and the party is over!

Many people in this world are enjoying the pleasures of sin, trying to squeeze all the gusto they can out of life, without regard to God or His commandments. However, one day as they are assuming "peace and safety," sudden destruction will overtake them, and the party will be over.

163. "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy; meditate on these things." (Phil. 4:8)

Some good things to think about:

The greatest handicap - FEAR

The best day - TODAY

Hardest thing to do - TO BEGIN

Easiest thing to do - FIND FAULT

Most useless asset - PRIDE

Most useful asset - HUMILITY

The greatest mistake - GIVING UP

The greatest stumbling block - EGOTISM

The greatest comfort - WORK WELL DONE

Most disagreeable person - THE COMPLAINER

Worst bankruptcy - LOSS OF ENTHUSIASM

Greatest need - COMMON SENSE

Meanest feeling - REGRET AT ANOTHER'S SUCCESS

Best gift - FORGIVENESS

The hardest and most painful to accept - DEFEAT

The greatest moment - DEATH

The greatest knowledge - GOD

The greatest thing - LOVE

The greatest success in the world - PEACE OF MIND.

(Author Unknown)

164. "The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you." (Phil. 4:9) "Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ." (1 Cor. 11:1)

Some years ago, musicians noted that errand boys in a certain part of London all whistled out of tune as they went about their work. Someone suggested that it was because the bells of Westminster were slightly out of tune. Something had gone wrong with the chimes and they were not in harmony. The boys did not know anything was wrong with the bells, and had unconsciously copied their pitch.

It is only natural that we, to some degree, mimic those with whom we associate; however, let us not imitate those who are out of tune with Christ.

165. "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God." (Rom. 5:1-2)

One night a house caught fire and a young boy was forced to flee to the roof. The father stood on the ground below with outstretched arms, calling to his son, "Jump! I'll catch you." He knew the boy had to jump to save his life. However, the boy could only see flames, smoke, and blackness. He was afraid to leave the roof. His father kept yelling: "Jump! I will catch you." The boy protested, "Daddy, I can't see you." The father replied, "But I can see you and that's what matters." The boy then jumped and his father caught him gently in his arms.

Faith is "the evidence of things not seen." (Heb. 11:1). In other words, because of the evidence, we believe in that which we have not seen. Jesus said to Thomas, "Because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." (John 20:29). The very next verses say, "And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name" (John 20:30-31).

166. "And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen." (Mark 16:20)

There are many today who claim to have the supernatural gifts of tongues and healings. This cannot be true, because the purpose of the miraculous gifts in that early age was to "confirm" the word of God. The word "confirm" means to "establish...to prove its (the word's) truth and divinity" (Thayer, p. 99).

The U.S. Constitution was confirmed, Sept. 17, 1787, by the signatures of George Washington and 38 other statesmen. That document was confirmed over 200 years ago, and no one can reconfirm (re-sign) it today.

Just as our nation stands on the foundation of the Constitution, the church of our Lord is founded on the New Testament. Both documents were confirmed in their beginning. The very nature of "confirming" takes place at its beginning and not throughout its existence.

The miraculous gifts of the first century are to the New Testament what the signatures of the fathers are to our Constitution, and neither can be duplicated or reproduced today.

167. "For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just reward, how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation...?" (Heb. 2:2-3)

Many years ago, I heard an older preacher say, "It is right to become a Christian, and wrong not to." Truly, it is wise and right to become a Christian and most wrong and foolish not to become one. The one who diligently prepares himself for eternity is doing right, and the one who does not is doing wrong. The one who fears God, obeys Christ, and loves others will be rewarded. The one who neglects the great salvation will be severely punished.

Will you not become a Christian by obeying the gospel today? It is right to do it and wrong not to. You will not escape if you neglect the great salvation!

168. "So they took Joseph's tunic, killed a kid of the goats, and dipped the tunic in the blood. Then they sent the tunic of many colors, and they brought it to their father and said, 'We have found this. Do you know whether it is your son's tunic or not?' And he recognized it and said, 'It is my son's tunic. A wild beast has devoured him. Without doubt Joseph is torn to pieces.' Then Jacob tore his clothes, put sackcloth on his waist, and mourned for his son many days. And all his sons and all his daughters arose to comfort him; but he refused to be comforted, and he said, 'For I shall go down into the grave to my son in mourning.' Thus his father wept for him." (Gen. 37:31-35)

A lady, in trying to prove her salvation by her feelings, said, "I knew I was saved because I felt so light I thought I could have flown like a bird." A gospel preacher asked her, "Could you have flown like a bird?" She said, "No, but I felt like I could have." He answered, "If your feelings deceived you into thinking you could fly when you couldn't, perhaps your feelings deceived you into thinking you were saved when you weren't!"

We cannot prove our salvation by our feelings. Jacob concluded that a wild beast had devoured his son Joseph, and he had the same feelings as if Joseph had been truly dead. Only by complying with the things written in the word of God can we be certain of our salvation. John said, "These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life..." (1 John 5:13)

169. "And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light." (Rom. 13:11-12)

"Think about people who find themselves in religious ruts. They discover a number of things about themselves. They will find that they are getting older but not getting any holier. Time is their enemy, not their friend. The time they trusted and looked to is betraying them, for they often said to themselves, 'The passing of time will help me. I know some good old saints, so as I get older I'll get holier and better. Time will help me, purify me and revive me.' They said that the year before last, but they were not helped any last year. Time betrayed them. They were not any better last year than they had been the year before." (From in "Rut, Rot or Revival," by A.W. Tozer in Christianity Today, Vol. 38, No. 3)

"Therefore He says: 'Awake, you who sleep, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.'" (Eph. 5:14)

170. "...That you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ." (Phil. 1:10)

The word "sincere" has an interesting history. It comes from two Latin words which mean "without wax." Artificers of Middle Eastern countries fashioned highly expensive statuettes out of very fine porcelain. It was of such fragile nature that extreme care had to be taken when firing the figurines to keep them from cracking. Dishonest dealers would accept the cracked figurines at a much lower price and then fill the cracks with wax before offering them for sale. Honest merchants would display their uncracked porcelain wares with signs that read, "sine cera," that is, "without wax." (From "How to Succeed with Your Money," by George M. Bowman)

Let us be sincere (without wax - pure, unsullied, genuine) in our service to the Lord.

171. "A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher." (Luke 6:40)

Someone was talking to a scholar about a young man. He said, "So and so tells me that he was one of your students." The teacher answered devastatingly, "He may have attended my lectures, but he was not one of my students."

There is a world of difference between attending lectures and being a student. One of the supreme handicaps of the Lord's church today is that there are many distant followers of Jesus and too few real disciples.

172. "The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them." (Prov. 11:3)

In ancient China, the people desired security from the barbaric hordes to the north; so they built the great Chinese wall. It was so high they knew no one could climb over it and so thick that nothing could break it down. They settled back to enjoy their security. During the first hundred years of the wall's existence, China was invaded three times. Not once did the barbaric hordes break down the wall or climb over the top. Each time they bribed a gatekeeper and then marched right through the gates. The Chinese were so busy building and relying on walls of stone, they forgot to teach integrity to their people.

"Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for You." (Psalm 25:21)

173. "And He said to them, 'Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father's business?'" (Luke 2:49) "I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work." (John 9:4)

Following in the steps of Jesus, we suggests some personal "musts" for all Christians.

- I must be willing to stand alone if necessary.

- I must be willing to go against public opinion in order to promote truth.

- I must be willing to risk failure in converting most people.

- I must become master of my emotions.

- I must strive to remain above reproach.

- I must be willing to make decisions others don't want to make.

- I must be willing to say "no" at times, even when I would like to say "yes."

- I must be willing to sacrifice personal interests for the good of the local church.

- I must never be content with the average, but must strive for excellence.

- I must always place people above possessions.

- I must always be abounding in the work of the Lord.

174. "For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves." (Acts 20:29-30)

Damage to the body of Christ usually comes from within rather than from without. When one cuts into an apple or, worse, bites into it, and finds a worm, the worm did not come from outside the apple but from the inside. An adult moth laid an egg in the heart of the flower. The egg was then incorporated into the ovary, and finally into the mature flower's fruit, the apple. Thus, when you find a worm's hole in the rind of the apple, the worm has already done its damage, and is off to pupate into an adult moth which lays more eggs in future flowers the same way. And, until the cycle can be broken by the farmer, much fruit will continue to be damaged.

Paul continued, "Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears. So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified." (Acts 20:31-32)

175. "Let your father and your mother be glad, and let her who bore you rejoice." (Prov. 23:25)

4 years of Age - My Mommy can do anything.

8 years of Age - My Mom knows a lot, a whole lot.

12 years of Age - My Mother doesn't know quite everything.

14 years of Age - Mother doesn't know anything.

16 years of Age - Mom is hopelessly old-fashioned.

18 years of Age - I know so much more than Mom does.

25 years of Age - It's amazing how Mom has gotten wiser.

35 years of Age - Before we decide, let's get Mom's opinion.

45 years of Age - What would Mom have thought about it?

65 years of Age - Wish I could talk it over with Mom. (Author Unknown, Slightly Adapted)

"Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 'Many daughters have done well, but you excel them all.' Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised." (Prov. 31:28-30)

176. "Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord..." (Acts 3:19)

For years, the opening of "The Wide World of Sports" television program illustrated "the agony of defeat" with a painful ending to an attempted ski jump. The skier appeared in good form as he headed down the jump, but then, for no apparent reason, he tumbled head over heels off the side of the jump, bouncing off the supporting structure.

What viewers didn't know was that he chose to fall rather than finish the jump. Why? As he explained later, the jump surface had become too fast, and midway down the ramp, he realized if he completed the jump, he would land on the level ground, beyond the safe slope landing area, which could have been fatal. As it was, the skier suffered no more than a headache from the tumble.

To change one's course in life can be a dramatic and sometimes painful undertaking, but change is better than a fatal landing at the end. (From "Illustrations for Preaching and Teaching," p. 21)

177. "...That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive..." (Eph. 4:14)

The word "sleight" is from the Greek word, "kubos," which meant "cube" and referred literally to "dice-playing." It was used metaphorically for "deception" because dice players often cheated and defrauded their fellow players.

Like people who find themselves victims of professional gamblers, so are the untaught before the winds of error. Dishonesty and trickery are the name of the game for false teachers. They use an assortment of trickery, craftiness, and deceit to disguise their teaching as divine truth.

Let us be on guard against those who lie in wait to deceive.

178. "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." (1 Cor. 15:58)

Dressed as a rag doll, Melody Schick, 24, sat on a revolving platform with a teddy bear cradled in her left arm and stared into space. Only her eyes moved. After five hours and forty-three boring minutes, she arose slowly and tried to smile. Miss Schick was seeking to beat the world record for sitting still. The previous record was five hours and thirty-two minutes. The record attempt took place at a Dallas shopping center as hundreds of shoppers watched.

Sadly, there are some members of the church who could compete for that record. They have been "sitting still," in the Lord's work, not only for hours, but for years.

Let us be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.

179. "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear..." (1 Pet. 3:15) "Then the master said to the servant, 'Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.'" (Luke 14:23) "...He who wins souls is wise." (Prov. 11:30)

The attitude of some brethren toward personal work brings to mind the story of two salesman who in the 1800's were sent from this country on separate missions to Africa to view the possibilities of selling shoes. One salesman wrote back to the company and said, "The prospects for selling shoes in this country is absolutely no good because everyone goes barefooted." The other salesman wrote back and said, "The prospects for selling shoes here is fantastic because everyone needs shoes."

How is your attitude toward personal work?

180. "By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren." (1 John 3:16)

One summer morning as Ray Blankenship was preparing his breakfast, he gazed out the window and saw a small girl being swept along in the rain-flooded drainage ditch beside his Andover, Ohio home. He knew that farther downstream the ditch disappeared with a roar underneath a road and then emptied into the main culvert. Blankenship had to make a choice. He could remain in the safety of his home or risk his life in a rescue attempt. Immediately he dashed out the door and raced along the ditch. Once he was ahead of the floundering child, he leaped into the water and grabbed her. The two tumbled end over end. When they were about to enter the culvert, Blankenship's free hand grabbed a rock on the bank. A short time later he pulled the girl to safety.

Thanks be to God that Jesus Christ has pulled us to safety. "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends." (John 15:13)

181. "Little children, keep yourselves from idols." (1 John 5:21. "Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry." (1 Cor. 10:14)

Years ago, men took pieces of wood or metal and carved or fashioned them into gods. They literally fashioned gods to meet their own fancy.

Today, men in their own minds shape and fashion the true God into the god they prefer. They mentally chisel and carve away His wrath and severity making Him a god of love only. They mold and shape Him into a god that accepts the very things He once rejected.

Thus, modern men in their own minds have fashioned their own god, and are no less guilty of idolatry than the people of long ago. Let us flee from all gods of our own devising.

182. "And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you." (Eph. 4:32)

A young soldier was given an important commission and as result was invited to a formal officer's dinner. When ice was passed, he obviously was confused and dropped the ice into his hot soup. As others prepared to laugh, the commanding officer calmly did the same. This was kindness.

A Christian is to be considerate, thoughtful, not harsh, but easy to be entreated. He should be tenderhearted, easy going, and likable. James said, "But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy" (James 3:17).

183. "We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed." (2 Cor. 6:3)

The apostle Paul always considered what his actions communicated about his ministry. There is power in influence. Careless, undisciplined action can cause someone to reject Christ or become unfaithful. Faithful, energetic service leads others to the Lord. The best way to impact the lives of others is to demonstrate in practice what we believe.

Jesus said, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matt. 5:16)

184. "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil." (Eph. 5:15-16) A footnote on "redeeming the time" in the ASV says, "Gr. buying up the opportunity."

"The idea is that we make the most of every opportunity. The word 'opportuntiy' comes from the Latin and means 'toward the port.' There is a familiar saying that 'if the pilot does not know which port he is headed for, no wind is the right wind.' If one walks wisely, he will not drift with the wind and tide, but he will give proper thought, make plans, and then set his sail!" (From "A Study Workbook on Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon" by Robert Harkrider)

185. "...And the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful." (Mark 4:19)

Several years ago, newspapers carried the story regarding a new Navy jet fighter which shot itself down. Flying at supersonic speed, it ran into cannon shells it had fired only a few seconds before. The jet was traveling too fast and ran into its own cannon fire and thereby destroyed itself.

Perhaps you, too, are traveling far too fast in this life. If you don't have time to worship God, study the Bible, and pray, surely you are going too fast. If you can't find time to do the Lord's work, visit the sick and needy, and teach your friends and neighbors, truly your desire and love for other things has over accelerated. If you have allowed the things of this world to choke your spiritual life, you need to slow yourself down or, like the jet, you will destroy yourself.

186. "Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away." (Heb. 2:1)

"To young men were fishing above a low dam on a river near their hometown. As they were concentrating on catching fish, they were unaware that they had drifted until they were not far from the water flowing over the dam. When they realized their situation, the current near the dam had become too powerful for them to keep their boat from going over. Below the dam the water was dashing with strong force over great boulders and through crevices in the rocks. Caught by the swirling waters under the rocks, they never came to the surface. After days of relentless searching, the divers finally found one body, and then, two or three days later, the other. It was a sad occasion when these two young men lost their lives in the bloom of youth. It was also a sad occasion -- one tempered with hope and thanksgiving -- when I preached the funeral of one of them, the one whom I had baptized only a week before." (By Billy Norris, from "Gospel Guide")

Let us take heed lest we be slowly drifting away from God.

187. "Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her the product of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates." (Prov. 31:30-31)

The following was written by a 12-year-old girl, and well illustrates that judging by appearance is instilled in the hearts of people from a very early age.

"To be enormously gorgeous, Sarah says you need to have beautiful, long, curly hair like she has. I don't. To be enormously gorgeous, Justin says you must have perfectly straight white teeth like he has. I don't. To be enormously gorgeous, Jessica says you can't have any of those little brown dots on your face called freckles. I do. To be enormously gorgeous, Mark says you have to be the smartest kid in the seventh-grade class. I'm not. To be enormously gorgeous, Stephen says you have to be able to tell the funniest jokes in the school. I'm not. To be enormously gorgeous, Lauren says you need to live in the nicest neighborhood in town and in the prettiest house. I don't. To be enormously gorgeous, Matthew says you can only wear the coolest clothes and the most popular shoes. I don't. To be enormously gorgeous, Samantha says you need to come from a perfect family. I don't. But every night at bedtime my dad gives me a big hug and says, 'You are enormously gorgeous, and I love you.' My dad must know something my friends don't."

188. "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." (Prov. 16:18)

While campaigning for the presidency in August 1928, Herbert Hoover said, "We are nearer to the final triumph over poverty than ever before in the history of any land. The poorhouse is vanishing from among us. We have not yet reached the goal, but we shall soon be in sight of the day when poverty will be banished from this nation." Americans found Hoover's words highly gratifying, and he was elected by a landslide. Less than a year later, however, the stock market crashed, beginning the Great Depression.

189. "But they all with one accord began to make excuses..." (Luke 14:18)

Some say they won't become Christians because there are hypocrites in the church. Others say they can't be faithful because they are discouraged by the hypocrites in the church. There is no sound reasoning to this excuse. Certainly, there are hypocrites in the church, but there are more out of the church!

If one needed a job, and was offered one in a factory, he wouldn't say, "I won't work there because there are hypocrites there." Or, if he needed some groceries, and had the money to buy them, he wouldn't say, "I won't go to the store because there are hypocrites there."

The "hypocrites in the church" excuse will be a very weak one in the day of judgment. Does one expect to be given heaven because of the wickedness of others? Will he say, "Lord, I didn't serve you because of the hypocrites and therefore I deserve heaven?" It is far better to put up with a few hypocrites in the church for a little time than to dwell with all hypocrites forever!

190. "I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish." (Luke 13:3)

Jesus does not force the sinner to repent, but enjoins and beseeches him to do so. The choice is ours: "repent or perish," "turn or be lost"; it's that simple.

Repentance is not despair, remorse, or regret, but is a change of mind coupled with a change of conduct. The first son repented and went (Matt. 21:28-29); the jailer washed their stripes (Acts 16:33); the Ephesians burned their evil books (Acts 19:19); and the prodigal son came home (Luke 15:20). We should repent and be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38) and, thereafter, continue to repent as the need arises. We need to daily strive to meet the Lord's requirements so that we can continue to have our sins forgiven. (1 John 1:7-9).

What is your choice? Will you repent or will you perish?

191. "Oh, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day." (Psalm 119:97) "Through Your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way. Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." (Psalm 119:104-105)

John Bunyan wrote his immortal allegory "Pilgrim's Progress" after mastering the Scriptures and sensing that God had spoken to him again and again through its pages. He said, "Although you may have no commentaries at hand, continue to read the Word and pray; for a little from God is better than a great deal received from a man. Too many are content to listen to what comes from men's mouths, without searching and kneeling before God to know the real truth. That which we receive directly from the Lord through the study of His Word is from the 'minting house' itself. Even old truths are new if they come to us with the smell of heaven upon them." (From Bible Illustrator)

Let us open our eyes and behold wondrous things from God's holy word.

192. "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things..." (Matt. 12:35)

There is a story regarding a country school who's principal thought it would be good to take up donations for destitute children at Christmas time. There was not much interest among the students. However, there was one boy who struggled to save a few pennies for the project. He had saved fifteen cents and planned to turn it in at the school on the Friday before the Christmas vacation. Nevertheless, a furious blizzard blasted the area that Friday and the school buses were not able to run. Consequently, the boy waded a great distance through deep snow to give his fifteen cents to the school principal. The principal found it difficult to control his emotions as he accepted the gift, for the youngster was one of the destitute children listed to receive a donation from the proceeds.

193. "...That we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting..." (Eph. 4:14) "But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived." (2 Tim. 3:13)

High waves on the sea were giving a ship great difficulty as it was being slowly guided into a rocky harbor. The Captain of the ship standing on the bow with binoculars was carefully watching every rock that intruded out of the water. One of the passengers being sorely frightened came to the Captain and said, "Sir, do you know where all the rocks are?" The Captain answered, "No, I don't know where all the rocks are." The passenger replied, "If you don't know where all the rocks are, what's to keep us from shipwreck?" The Captain answered, "I know where the safe channel is."

Likewise, regarding the religions of our time, we don't need to know where all the rocks are. There are hundreds, even thousands, of false doctrines being taught and practiced today, and we don't need to familiarize ourselves with them, nor waste our time studying them. After using up a lifetime in acquainting ourselves with them, evil men would only have that many more for us to learn. However, we do need to know where the safe channel is. We need to be thoroughly acquainted with the safe channel (the holy Scriptures) so that we can follow in the Way that leads to life.

194. "Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you that you should not eat? Then the man said, 'The woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I ate.' And the LORD God said to the woman, 'What is this you have done?' The woman said, 'The serpent deceived me, and I ate.'" (Gen. 3:11-13)

Man often wants to blame others for his faults. This is well illustrated in a Peanuts cartoon. It showed Peppermint Patty talking to Charlie Brown. She said, "Guess what, Chuck. The first day of school, and I got sent to the principal's office. It was your fault, Chuck." He said, "My fault? How could it be my fault? Why do you say everything is my fault?" She said, "You're my friend, aren't you, Chuck? You should have been a better influence on me."

The person who accepts responsibility for his own sins is the one who is pleasing to God. "He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy." (Prov. 28:13)

195. "So it shall be, when the LORD your God brings you into the land of which He swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give you large and beautiful cities which you did not build, houses full of all good things, which you did not fill, hewn-out wells which you did not dig, vineyards and olive trees which you did not plant; when you have eaten and are full; then beware, lest you forget the LORD who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage." (Deut. 6:10-12)

"We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven. We have been preserved, for many years, in peace and prosperity. We have grown in numbers, wealth and power, as no other nation has ever grown. But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us; and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to God that made us! It behooves us, then, to humble ourselves before the offended Power, to confess our national sins, and to pray for clemency and forgiveness." (President Abraham Lincoln, April 30, 1863)

Let us beware lest we, too, forget the Lord who has so richly blessed us.

196. "Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said, 'See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?' Then Philip said, 'If you believe with all your heart, you may.' And he answered and said, 'I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.' So he commanded the chariot to stand still. And both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him." (Acts 8:36-38)

A man who was mute had attended services for a long time. After one of the sermons, as the invitation was being sung, he came forward and set on the front pew with an open Bible in his hand. The preacher, knowing that the man was unable to state his desire, was very perplexed as to what to do. After the song was finished, the dumb man approached the preacher and pointed to the verse which says, "See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?" The preacher simply pointed to the next verse, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." The man quickly pointed to the next verse, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." The preacher then repeated the things in the verses to the congregation, and they took the man and baptized him into Christ.

Have you been baptized into Christ as was the Ethiopian eunuch, and the man who was mute?

197. "...That by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us. This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil, where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus, having become High Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek." (Heb. 6:18-20)

God set up cities of refuge in the Old Testament age so that if anyone accidentally killed another person, he could flee to those cities for safety (Ex. 21:13; Num. 35:6-29; Deut. 19:1-10; Joshua 20:1-9). One was not safe from the avenger of blood until he was within the place of safety, and he had to make haste lest the pursuer overtake and slay him.

Just as a person who had accidently killed his neighbor was assured of safety if he gained entrance into a city of refuge, the one who is in Christ has refuge from sin and condemnation. Those of us who have obeyed Christ, and are living faithfully in Him, are the ones, "who have fled for refuge to lay hold on the hope set before us."

Will you not also flee for refuge in Christ today?

198. "...That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God..." (Col. 1:10)

I heard a discussion between two Christians who hadn't met for some time. One asked the other how the church where he attended was doing, and he answered, "The church is growing tremendously; as a matter of fact, it is doing better now than it has ever done." His friend asked, "How many have you baptized?" He said, "None! We recently withdrew from ten!" He explained, "This action of purifying the church has made the church stronger and the members are studying and working together better now than they ever have."

This inward growth of the members is the kind of growth in the early churches the inspired writers stressed, and is the kind strongly needed today.

199. "And Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying, 'Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored to you, and you shall be clean.'" (2 Kings 5:10)

To be cleansed of his leprosy, Naaman had to wash seven times in the river Jordan. After some hesitation, he obeyed and was made clean. (2 Kings 5:14). To be cleansed of past sins, you must "Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Acts 22:16; see also Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Col. 2:12; Gal. 3:26-27; 1 Pet. 3:21). There is no power in the water in baptism exactly as there was no power in the water of Jordan for Naaman. The power is of the Lord, but one must go to the water to be blessed of the Lord. If Naaman had not obeyed, he would not have been cleansed. If one does not obey the Lord in baptism, he will not be cleansed of his sins.

200. "And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Acts 22:16)

Many object to baptism for the remission of sins by saying, "There's no power in the water." Jesus healed a blind man by anointing his eyes and saying, "Go wash in the pool of Siloam." (John 9:6-7). The blind man did not object by saying, "There's no power in the water." He knew the power was of the Lord and he had to obey the Lord to receive the blessing. He promptly obeyed and received his sight. Likewise, there is no power in the water of baptism. The power is of the Lord, but one must go to the water to receive the blessing.