What must I do to be saved?

Is the church of Christ a denomination? I recently spoke with someone who made the statement, “I’m no respecter of denominations.” He was trying to let me know that he thought I was “okay” even though he did not worship in a church of Christ. I read the website of a modern hymn writer who boasted that her works were sung in “many denominations” “including the Church of Christ.”

To answer our original question, we have to get a better understanding of what the church of Christ is, and what a denomination is. In this article we will define denomination. In the next we will discuss the church of Christ. The verb denominate means “to give a name to.” The noun denomination has at least three definitions: 1. A large group of religious congregations united under a common faith and name, usually organized under a single administrative and legal hierarchy. 2. One of a series of kinds, values, or sizes, as in a system of currency or weights. 3. A name or designation, especially for a class or group. The first definition helps us most when seeking to answer our question.

Note that many religious groups deny that they are denominations. Both the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church consider themselves pre-denominational. Churches that are most likely to embrace the identity of denomination are those that trace their history to the Protestant Reformation and its after effects.

In my experience, denominationalism has a few identifying features. As the definition suggests, a denomination is a grouping of people who share a similar set of beliefs. They rally under a particular name. They are organized under a set structure. Yet, in each of these cases, they have gone beyond Scripture. For example, their beliefs may be verbalized in a creed: the Apostles’ Creed, or the Nicene Creed, or the Baptist Confession of Faith. No matter how well-meaning, all of these are human attempts to summarize or distill what the Bible says instead of simply insisting on Scripture. In nearly every case, the name used does not come from the Bible, but is of human origin. Likewise, the organization of denominations always includes some kind of leadership structure not found in Scripture (this includes the Roman Catholic Church).

I have found at least one more feature of denominationalism, at least among those that embrace the identity: they generally do not believe that denominational differences are matters of salvation. While Presbyterians may sprinkle babies, Baptists may immerse adults, and Methodists may not baptize at all, they all believe the others are Christians, and the differences between them are matters more of judgment than anything else. Thus, to embrace the concept of denominationalism typically also means that one has embraced the concept of ecumenism.

When I read the New Testament, I do not find denominationalism. In fact, the New Testament writers seem to avoid any formal naming altogether. They use many descriptions: the body of Christ, the bride of Christ, the temple of God, the household of God, the way (Ephesians 4:12; Revelation 21:2, 9; 2 Corinthians 6:16; 1 Timothy 3:15; Acts 9:2). Furthermore, I find many places where the inspired writers insist on unity of both doctrine and practice (1 Corinthians 1:10, 11:2; Philippians 2:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:15, 3:6; Titus 3:8).

We do not find denominationalism in the New Testament. We find the inspired men actively teaching against the tenets of modern denominationalism. Is there a God-honoring alternative, and if so, what does it look like? This we hope to explore in the next article, in which we will discuss the church of Christ.

Clay Leonard

An auction took place last month in New York at Sotheby’s, an agency famed for auctioning rare and valuable objects.  When the closing gavel fell only six minutes into the bidding, the Codex Sassoon had sold for $33.5 million.  That put this codex among the highest-selling objects of all time (a copy of the U.S. Constitution’s first printing sold for over $43 million in 2021).

A codex is similar to our modern-day book, an advancement over the scroll.  The Codex Sassoon has been described as the earliest most complete Hebrew Bible in existence.  Dating from the 10th century A.D., it has all but eight pages of the books of the Bible, 782 pages in all.  It is bound in leather and is handwritten on sheepskin pages.  As you might expect, it’s a large book.

The Codex Sassoon was last sold in 1989 to a banker for $3.19 million.  The new owner has vowed to keep this treasure in Israel where it will be on public display.  It can truly be called a national treasure.

I have beside me a leather-bound Bible that has not just the Old Testament but the New as well.  I purchased it about 20 years ago for around $50.  I have other Bibles in my possession that I purchased for even less money.  But each one I regard as a treasure, not because of what they might bring at auction, but because of the value they have for me personally.

In 2 Timothy 3:16,17 we learn the value of Scripture, whether contained in a scroll, a codex, or in electronic characters: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”  That one statement shows the Bible’s immense value.

First, this Book is from God.  Paul noted that it is the product of inspiration, a word which means “God-breathed”.  This is no ordinary book, but one that has come directly from God to each of us.  The second point Paul makes is this: it will show us how to live righteous lives that please the Father.  Without this book we will stumble in the darkness; as Jeremiah 10:23 states, “O Lord, I know the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps.”

So here’s my question to you: What value do you place on your Bible?  Sotheby’s would never consider my budget-priced volumes, but do I?  I should, based on what Jesus said in Matthew 16:26: “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?  Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”

Regardless of what we paid for our Bibles, here’s how we should view them: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105).  Even if I only have a weathered paperback Bible, it can shine divine light on my path and show me the way to heaven.

Come to the light God offers!  Study His word, the Bible.  Worship Him in spirit and truth (John 4:24).  Get in touch with us if you’d like to discuss these ideas further.

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Copyright, 2023, Timothy D. Hall

After giving those who have died for our freedom one “memorial” day, our country will now devote an entire month to “Pride Month” for the LGBTQ+ agenda.

Pride parades will be held in most major cities, exposing children to rank debauchery. Companies will demonstrate their support by incorporating the rainbow into their corporate logos. Some like Target and Kohl’s will even promote pride clothing to infants and toddlers. Television and media outlets will feature homosexual films, actors, and interviews all month long as they deceivingly promote sinful behavior as a celebration.

For thirty days our nation will be saturated with the LGBTQ+ agenda, as they further desensitize our children and push tolerance and diversity.

At the same time, Christians who oppose this “celebration” will be cast as hate-mongers. We will be called unloving, intolerant, homophobes, or bigots. Emotional and passionate arguments will be made as LGBTQ+ activists try to recruit more supporters for their cause.

No, this is not a celebration of love. It’s a celebration of debauchery, sodomy, and sin.

Some Christians have suggested we join hands with this movement as a demonstration of Christian love. They believe that if we are more sensitive to this cause—demonstrating a spirit of unity and love—that maybe we can influence the lost to Christ. However, Christians should strongly consider what the Bible actually says about pride before we blindly accept and embrace this pagan celebration.

Consider the following Scriptures that God-breathed:

• Proverbs 6:16-17, “These six things the Lord hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood,…”

• Psalm 10:4, “The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts.”

• Proverbs 16:5, “Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; Though they join forces, none will go unpunished.”

• Proverbs 11:2, “When pride comes, then comes shame; but with the humble is wisdom.”

• Proverbs 16:18-19, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.“

• James 4:6, “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: ‘God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

• Proverbs 29:2, “A man’s pride will bring him low, but the humble in spirit will retain honor.”

Pride is not something to celebrate. It’s an abomination to God—something He hates. Christians, if we really care and love the lost in this world, then we will teach them the Truth—a Truth that will ultimately set them free from all that ensnares them. John wrote, “For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world” (1 John 2:16).

I encourage everyone to stop supporting “pride month” and stop trying to please the world, but instead seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness! Help those around us to see what is truly pleasing to God.

Brad Harrub

As the young child was walking through the shopping mall with his mother, he got very excited and began shouting, “That’s my teacher! That’s my teacher!” The teacher was accustomed to such salutations from her young students. She waved at the child and gave the embarrassed mother an understanding smile. The child could hardly wait to get home to tell his friends about seeing his teacher at the mall. He just could not imagine his teacher going shopping, just like a “real person”.

“Be not many of you teachers, my brethren, knowing that we shall receive heavier judgment. For in many things we all stumble” (James 3:1-2a). Brethren expect some degree of faithfulness and maturity in the man who stands behind the rostrum and teaches the adult Bible class. At the same time, those students in the class well understand the distinction between maturity and sinless perfection. No matter who stands before the class to teach – he is just a man, subject to the same frailties and handicaps as others. If the teacher makes a slip of the tongue, or misses the point in a lesson, or even stumbles in his daily living – mature Christians can keep things in perspective while addressing the problem.

But what about the kids? When their Bible class teacher behaves carelessly or indifferently in regard to truth, the implications and consequences are severe. The child does not operate from a basis of spiritual maturity – he is in the process of acquiring it. The faith and zeal of the youngster can be shaken drastically by inconsistent and confusing behavior he sees in his teacher.

Why would a mature man or woman spend several hours preparing to teach the children about the importance of worship – and then the same teacher forsake the assembly on Sunday night? “Mom, where’s my teacher tonight?” Why would a teacher emphasize the importance of “our gospel meeting” to a group of eager children, and then miss the meeting himself? And what would the little girl think, if after the Wednesday night lesson on modest apparel, she saw her teacher at the park on Saturday dressed quite immodestly? “Hey Mom, that’s my teacher!”

“And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me: but whoso shall cause one of these little ones that believe on me to stumble, it is profitable for him that a great millstone should be hanged about his neck, and that he should be sunk in the depth of the sea” (Matthew 18:5-6) .

We are certainly blessed with some excellent teachers for the children’s Bible classes.  Hours and hours are spent in lesson preparation.  Let’s be mindful, however, that with all the attention given to preparing and delivering a lesson – there are some accompanying responsibilities which are quite significant.

– by David Thomley

This is an examination of 1 Peter 2:13-17 and its applications to us. It is an interesting text and context, out of an interesting letter. Peter’s audience was not a single church. Instead, he addressed his letter to…

God’s elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia. (1 Peter 1:10)

As addressed, the original recipients of this letter were Christians living in various parts of the Roman Empire. The purpose of the writing was to offer encouragement and fortification for the trials they all faced, which Peter acknowledged first in 1:6. That Peter would address them as “strangers” set the agenda for the letter. He would pick up this idea again in 2:11-12 (immediately before the text of our study).

Overall, his teaching focused on their calling as God’s chosen people. This calling led to an understanding that the world offered no lasting home. Here Christians are just “aliens and strangers”. Peter would detail what that looked like lived out within a hostile world. One point of emphasis within this involved living in such a way to counter criticism. One way to do that would be to submit to governing authorities.

THE TEXT

Submission to all governing authorities—specifically to kings and governors—is called upon “for the Lord’s sake.” This qualifier is significant. Remember the type of government under which these Christians lived. It was not at all favorable to Christian faith. It was often oppressive, unjust and cruel. Why submit to such an immoral governmental system? That is what God asks of his people. He asks because even such evil governments are used to “punish those who do wrong and commend those who do right.” He asks because it is his will for his people—these strangers—to demonstrate their heavenly citizenship by “doing good” everywhere they happened to live and not to become involved in civil disobedience. Compare this text to both Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Timothy 2:1-5 and there is remarkable consistency of message.

Each of these contexts (and in ours) it is taught that Christians becoming involved in rebellion against those in governmental authority would be counterproductive to the spread of the gospel of Christ. Peter further explains why it is vital for Christians to submit to their rulers—to counter criticism or as he states, “silence the ignorant talk of foolish men.” Christians were subjects of incredible rumors and misinformation—blamed for incidents not their doing. So, it was crucial for Christians to not add any fuel to the false flames. “Peaceful and quiet” lives were the apostle’s mandates.

This could be accomplished four ways:

• Showing proper respect to everyone
• Loving each other—the brotherhood of believers
• Fearing God
• Honoring the king

But what if everyone was not worthy of respect? Even in the church? What if the king was corrupt? According to Peter, that does not matter. This approach is coming out of a respect first of God and his will. This is all done first “for the Lord’s sake.” It is a kingdom first perspective, which takes maturity to understand and practice. Just consider the next section of teaching—to Christian slaves. They were instructed to submit, obey and respect their masters—even the “harsh” ones. Why? Because it was “commendable before God.” Why? Because “to this you were called.”

It is the same principle. Christians are not to rebel but to respect and submit to those in authority even if that authority is unjust—because in so doing the principles and message of God’s kingdom are furthered. It is exactly why Christ endured the insults and sufferings without retaliation. We benefit from his submission. Others will benefit from ours. Ultimately the kingdom of God will triumph. We have to think more broadly than just the here and now. So, we honor the king (even if he is Nero), we pray for him, we do our best to live at peace with everyone by living out the kingdom values as aliens and strangers in our world. This is God’s calling and will for us.

21^st CENTURY APPLICATION

So how does all of this connect to us living in a democratic form of government in the 21^st century USA? To answer this—again we must remember that the NT texts were not written specifically to us or to directly answer our questions. Understanding that and doing our best to apply the teachings of these texts to our situation, here are some consistent principles to consider:

• Do our best—regardless of the type of government under which we live to submit and live at peace. Do not engage in civil disobedience or unrest. Our kingdom citizenship supersedes any earthly citizenship and living that out is paramount.
• Pay our taxes and our debts. Give no one the chance to slander Christ in this regard.
• If forced obey God rather than man—just like the apostles in Acts 5:29. But remember this still does not give permission to engage in anarchy. Persecuted Christians in the first century died not fighting but praising. Eventually their example won the world.
• We are called to “honor the king” with no qualifications—even if we do not like his politics.
• Christians can participate in the governmental process and use their rights of citizenship in peaceful and lawful ways (as Paul did—Acts 22-29) and in ways lawfully beneficial to the spread of the kingdom. Christians should not however partner with politics in any unequal way (2 Corinthians 6:14) nor should we expect the government to be “about the Father’s business.”
• The latter is our call and that is why the NT so emphasizes living as strangers and aliens; living peaceful lives that are in submission to those who govern us. It is not through ballots or bullets that the kingdom of God will spread. It is through quiet and determined faith lived out—consistently upholding the values of God’s kingdom.

God’s call is unchanged regardless of the type of governmental system under which we live. Live first the kingdom of God. Be the best citizen possible in demonstrating what it means to be first a citizen of heaven

Danny Dodd

Disguising the Bad

A nearby bakery shop has a reputation for making some absolutely incredible cinnamon rolls. These rolls are huge, and are literally packed with brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter, and are topped with thick, gooey icing. The very thought of these can make one’s mouth water.

But, alas, the health food craze has surely taken its toll on the cinnamon roll business. And though we love our sweets, we’ve been warned about all those calories – and we shutter to think of the cholesterol!  What’s a baker to do when cinnamon rolls are getting so much bad press?

The answer, of course, is to offer people an option that appeals to their health conscious sensitivities. And so, the baker of those delectable cinnamon rolls is now selling an oat bran muffin. Well, everyone has heard of the great benefits of oat bran. It has been touted as the remedy to a whole host of health problems. Surely then an oat bran muffin is just what the doctor ordered. Never mind that these particular muffins are as big as a softball, have more than a fair share of sugar, butter, calories, and even contain a huge dose of cholesterol! Which simply proves that if we can hide something bad behind a name that sounds good, most folks will “swallow it”.

This same trick is being used by Satan in the spiritual realm. Homosexuality is now an “alternate lifestyle” and no longer no longer called an “abomination” (Lev. 18:22).   Alcoholism sounds better than drunkenness, and it is easier to “swallow” if we call it a disease rather than a sin. You get the idea. But, remember, calling something bad by a good name does not change the outcome.

– by Greg Gwin

More and more, it seems the attitude of the world is, “If you want something, get it for yourself.” As Christians, we know that we should not confuse our wants with our needs; we also know that sometimes our wants run counter to our identity in Christ. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak (cf. Matthew 26:41). Scripture tells us that we can overcome this weakness with God’s help (cf. 1 Corinthians 10:12–13; James 4:7). Here are five guidelines that can help us say no to temptations and sins.

1. Don’t experiment with sin. You can’t get addicted to pills, alcohol, marijuana, lying, gossip, or any other sinful substance if you never try it. It is easier to say ‘no’ to something one thousand times in a row than it is to say ‘no’ after having said ‘yes’ once. Sin will always take us further than we want to go. Sin is always destructive. It leads to death (cf. James 1:15).

2. Avoid tempting situations as much as possible. Proverbs 6:27 says, “Can a man carry fire next to his chest and his clothes not be burned?” Part of overcoming sin is knowing our own weaknesses. While all temptations and sins fall into three basic categories (lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, 1 John 2:16), we do not all experience the same temptations. If we know our weaknesses, we can avoid situations that will amplify our temptations and put us at greater risk of sinning.

3. Fill your heart and mind with Scripture. The psalmist said, “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you” (Psalm 119:11). Jesus answered each of the adversary’s temptations with Scripture (cf. Matthew 4:1–11; Luke 4:1–13). When we fill our hearts and minds with God’s Word, we grow in our love for Him, we grow in our understanding of the ugliness of sin, and we grow in our ability to measure the temporary against the eternal.

4. Make a habit of detailed confession in prayer. Proverbs 28:13 says, “He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy.” In our private prayers to God, we should take the time to evaluate our actions according to His standards. When we practice detailed confession, we are forced to confront the ugliness and gravity of what we have done instead of glossing over it.

5. Practice accountability with fellow Christians. As Christians, we need no mediator but Jesus (cf. 1 Timothy 2:5). Nevertheless, James writes, “confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed” (James 5:16). When we share our struggles with fellow Christians, we find new strength in our common goal to live holy lives. We also find the added support of prayer. When we ignore James’ words, we ignore a powerful God has given us for the fight against sin.

God has provided the way of escape. Will you take it?

Clay Leonard

What do you have planned for today? What about tomorrow? What about next year? Read James 4:13-17 and let’s talk about it and talk about us.

A common thread throughout this chapter (as well as beyond and before) is the need for humility. Arrogance leads to conflict with both man and God (see vv. 1-3). Humility is the cure for both, as it is related to purity of heart with God and peace with man (see vv. 8 and 11-12).

In the text of 4:13-17 James considers an additional way in which arrogance can manifest itself. The somewhat subtle symptom of this arrogance is an improper consideration of one’s control of life. At the heart of the matter is the fragile nature of life and the sovereign will of All-Mighty God.

The text addresses the business man (in verse 13) that has planned to go to a certain city and make a profit over the course of a year’s time. The problem here is not one of making money. The problem is not in planning for the future. The problem is the spirit of arrogance that does not take into consideration the uncertainties of this life, and even one’s own life. (Compare this with the parable Jesus told about the man who was going to tear down barns and build bigger one’s – Lk. 12:16-21.)

There are many things we simply do not know (v. 14). Although all reasonable people understand their own mortality to some degree, it is amazingly easy to live without much thought of it. This man has planned a year in advance, yet in reality, he does not know what will happen tomorrow (or even today!) He has need, as all do, of living with the most basic question in mind: “What is life?” (v. 14). Living with an understanding of the answer to this question in one’s heart and mind can change life and even eternity.

James describes life as a “mist” (“vapor” – KJV). One could hardly imagine a more fleeting description of life! Life can be here for a moment and then gone the next, sometimes with little or no warning. (See Job’s description of life’s brevity – Job 7:6-10. See also Prov. 27:1.)

Proper humility before the Lord, the Giver and Sustainer of our lives, requires us to plan and live daily knowing that we are certainly not in full control. James says, “you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we live and do this or that’” (v. 15). The idea is not that we must pronounce this formula with every step we intend to take, but that we “ought” (must) to live humbly in this temporary abode. There is nothing we will do that God does not allow us to do. And, of course, Christians will most certainly only desire to do things which are in accordance with the will of God.

In the final verse of the text, James says, “So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin” (v. 17). The word “So” certainly indicates a connection with the previous verses. The right thing to do is to live humbly, dependently and prayerfully with our God as we seek to honor Him in this brief journey of life.

Daren Schroeder

JESUS WAS OPTIMISTIC:

Turn with me to Matthew 9:27ff. Jesus is going around, healing people, teaching them the gospel of God. Two blind men come up to Him and call on for mercy from this, the Son of David. Jesus entered the house and the blind men practically followed Him inside. “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” He asked. “Are you optimistic?” “Are you positive that I can do this?” Do you see how all these concepts are parallel?

They respond optimistically, “Yes, Lord.” So, in verse 29, Jesus touched their eyes, and said, “It shall be done to you according to your faith.” And their eyes were opened (vs 30).

Take another example. In John 9, Jesus heals the man who was born blind. This was the man who was kicked out of the synagogue because he was willing to give Jesus credit for it. Once he was excommunicated, Jesus found him and asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” That is, “Are you optimistic that the Messiah is coming?” “Who is He, Lord, that Immay be optimistic, that I may believe in Him?” And Jesus said, “You have both seen Him, and He is the one who is talking with you.” “Ah,” the healed blind man said. “Lord, I believe.”

When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, a similar dialogue occurs between Jesus and  Lazarus’ sister, Martha. She called out Jesus, affirming that if Jesus had been there earlier, Lazarus would not have died. Jesus responds, famously, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” (11:25). In essence, Jesus is asking Martha, “Are you optimistic that I have the ability to share life with you, with Lazarus?” She said, in words of strong and deep conviction: “Yes, Lord; I have believed that You are the Christ, the Son of God, even He who comes into the world.”

Again, when Paul was on trial and standing before King Agrippa, Paul asked him, Paul challenged him, “Do you believe the prophets?” (Acts 26:27) That is, “Are you optimistic that the prophets are telling the truth?”

Can we see that optimistic and a positive attitude are synonymous with faith in God? So, what does that have to do with us being positive as leaders in Christ’s church?

Martyn Lloyd-Jones was a heart surgeon and said, “Most unhappiness in life is due to the fact that you are listening to yourself rather than talking to yourself.” I would adjust that and say we are not listening to God nearly as much as we should. What kind of voices do we hear on a daily basis? When we meet people, do we tell ourselves they’ll let us down? When we face new experiences, does the voice in our head say that we’re going to fail? If we’re hearing negative messages, we need to learn to give ourselves a mental pep talk. The best way to retrain our attitude is to prevent our mind from going down any negative forks in the road.

To be a leader, be optimistic.

Paul Holland