Ang Anak ba sa Dios pwedeng mobiya sa pagtoo ug masinilotan?

Mga butang nga pwedeng mabuhat sa mga anak na sa Dios:

1. Mapakyas sa pagkab-ot sa grasya sa Dios -  Heb. 12:15 - Tan-awa ninyo nga walay bisan kinsa nga mapakyas sa pagkab-ot sa grasya sa Dios; nga walay "gamut sa kapaitan" nga mogitib ug magahimog kasamok ug tungod niini ang daghan mahitakdan sa kahugaw;
2. Madaldal ngadto sa kasaypanan ug mahulog - 2 Ped. 3:17 - Busa, mga hinigugma, sa nasayud na kamong daan niini, magbantay kamo basi bayag madaldal kamo sa kasaypanan sa mga tawong masupilon ug mangahulog kamo ug mawad-an kamo sa inyong kalig-on.
3. Mahisalaag gikan sa kamatuoran - Santiago 5:19 - Mga igsoon ko, kon aduna kaninyoy mahisalaag gikan sa kamatuoran ug may usa nga makapabalik kaniya,
4. Mahisalaag ug musunod kang Satanas - 1 Tim. 5: 14-15 - Busa buot ko nga managpamana ang mga babayeng balo nga mga baton-on pa, managpanganak sila, managdumala sa ilang mga panimalay, ug dili sila maghatag sa kaaway sa higayon sa pagsultig mga pagdaut kanato.15 Kay aduna nay pipila kanila nga nanghisalaag ngadto sa pagsunod kang Satanas.
5. Mawad-an sa kalig-on - 2 Ped. 3:17 - Busa, mga hinigugma, sa nasayud na kamong daan niini, magbantay kamo basi bayag madaldal kamo sa kasaypanan sa mga tawong masupilon ug mangahulog kamo ug mawad-an kamo sa inyong kalig-on.
6. Makapandol ang maluya nga igsoon -  1 Cor. 8:10 -11 - Kay kon ikaw nga may kahibalo makita sa usa ka tawo nga ikaw nagalingkod tambong sa kan-anan sa sulod sa templo sa diosdios, dili ba siya lagmit nga madasig, kon mahuyang ang iyang kaisipan, sa pagkaon sa kalan-on nga gihalad ngadto sa mga diosdios?11 Sa ingon niana, tungod sa imong kahibalo nadaut hinoon kining maong tawong mahuyang, nga imong igsoon nga alang kaniya si Cristo nagpakamatay.
7. Motalikod gikan sa balaang sugo - 2Ped. 2:19 – 21 - Kay kon tapus sila makaikyas gikan sa mga kahugawan sa kalibutan pinaagi sa ilang kahibalo sa atong Ginoo ug Manluluwas nga si Jesu-Cristo,-- kon tapus niini sila magapusgapos pag-usab diha kanila ug pagabuntugon, ang ulahing kahimtang nila labi pa unyang mangil-ad kay sa nahauna. 21 Kay alang kanila maayo pa lamang unta hinoon nga wala sila mahibalo sa dalan sa pagkamatarung kay sa motalikod sila tapus mahibalo niini,-- motalikod gikan sa balaang sugo nga gitugyan kanila.22 Sila hingmatud-an sa tinuod nga sanglitanan nga nagaingon, "Gibalikan sa iro ang iyang kaugalingong suka; ug tapus madigo ang anay, sa yanang mobalik siya sa paglunang."
8. Mahi-agum sa silot - Santiago 5:12 - Apan labaw sa tanan, mga igsoon, ayaw gayud kamo pagpanumpa, bisan pa kon ipasikad sa langit o sa yuta o sa bisan unsa pang panumpaa, hinonoa ang inyong oo himoa nga oo ra, ug ang inyong dili himoa nga dili ra, aron dili kamo mahiagum sa hukom sa silot.
9. Mahinukman sa Silot - 1 Cor. 9:27 - hinonoa ginabun-og ko ang akong lawas ug ginapanton ko kini, basi unya nga sa tapus ako makasangyaw ngadto sa uban, ako pagahukman na hinoon nga dili diay takus sa pag-apil sa bangga.
10. Pwede siyang putlon sama sa sanga nga walay bunga - Juan 15:1-6 - "Ako mao ang tinuod nga tanum nga parsas, ug ang akong Amahan mao ang tig-alima.2 Ang tanan kong sanga nga dili mamunga, kini iyang pamutlon; ug ang tanang sanga nga mamunga, kini iyang pagahinloan aron mamungag labi pang daghan.3 Kamo nangahinlo na tungod sa pulong nga akong gisulti kaninyo.4 Pabilin kamo kanako, ug pabilin ako kaninyo. Maingon nga ang sanga sa iya rang kaugalingon dili makabunga, gawas kon magapabilin kini sa tanum, sa ingon usab kamo dili makapamunga gawas kon magpabilini kamo kanako.5 Ako mao ang tanum nga parras, kamo mao ang mga sanga. Ang magapabilin kanako, kang kinsa magapabilin ako, mao siya ang magapamungag daghan, kay gawas kanako wala gayud kamoy arang mahimo. 6 Ang tawo nga dili magapabilin kanako, igasalibay siya sama sa sanga ug malaya; ug ang mga sanga pamuniton ug igaitsa ngadto sa kalayo ug mangasunog sila.
11. Dili bugnaw – dili usab init –  isuka - Pinadayag 3:14-18 - "Ug ngadto sa manolunda sa iglesia sa Laodicea, isulat mo kini: `Mao kini ang mga pulong sa Amen, ang kasaligan ug tinuod nga saksi, ang sugdanan sa mga binuhat sa Dios:15 "`Nasayud ako sa imong mga nabuhat, nga ikaw dili mabugnaw ug dili usab mainit. Kon mabugnaw ka pa unta o mainit!16 Ug kay ikaw dagaang man lamang, dili mabugnaw ug dili usab mainit, isuka ko ikaw gikan sa akong baba.17 Kay ikaw magakanayon, Ako dato, ako mauswagon, ug walay nakulang kanako; sa walay pagpanghibalo nga ikaw alaut, makalolooy, kabus, buta ug hubo.18 Busa tambagan ko ikaw nga gikan kanako magpalit kag bulawan nga inulay sa kalayo, aron madato ka; ug mga maputing bisti nga imong ikasul-ob aron dili magdayag ang pagkamakauulaw sa imong pagkahubo; ug tambal nga ikapadapat sa imong mga mata aron ikaw makakita.
12. Magbantay basig mabihag - Col. 2:8 - Bantayi ninyo nga walay bisan kinsa nga magabihag kaninyo pinaagi sa pilosopiya ug sa malimbongon nga pagpatootoo, sumala sa tawhanong kalagdaan nga gikabilinbilin, sumala sa mga paninugdan nga tinoohan sa kalibutan, ug dili sumala ni Cristo.
13. Pwedeng mabulag sa paglaum kon magpasaway ug magpabadlong. - Col 1:22 -23 - karon iya nang napasig-uli ngadto kaniya diha sa iyang tawhanon nga lawas pinaagi sa iyang kamatayon, aron iya kamong ikapaatubang nga binalaan ug dili masaway ug dili mabadlong diha sa iyang atubangan,23 kon kamo magapadayon gayud sa pagtoo, dili matarug, malig-on, dili mobulag sa paglaum sa Maayong Balita nga inyong gipatalinghugan, nga gikawali ngadto sa tanang mga binuhat sa silong sa langit, ug nga niini ako, si Pablo, nahimong ministro.
14. Pinalit na apan nagpanghimakak sa Agalong nagpalit - 2 Ped. 2:1 – 2 - Apan diha usab ing mga mini nga profeta sa taliwala sa katawhan, maingon nga sa taliwala ninyo aduna usab gayuy mobarug nga mga mini nga magtutudlo nga sa tago magapasulod sa makapadaut nga mga herejia, ug magapanghimakak pa gani sa Agalon nga maoy nagpalit kanila, ug busa magpahimutang sa kalit nga pagkalaglag diha sa ilang kaugalingon.2 Ug daghan ang managsunod sa ilang pagpatuyang sa kaulag, ug tungod kanila pagapasipad-an ang dalan sa kamatuoran.
15. Gibalaan na apan nagayatak sa anak sa Dios – Silotan sa mabug-at gayod! -Heb, 10:29 - Sa inyong paghunahuna, unsa ka labi pa ka mabug-at gayud sa silot nga mahiaguman sa tawo nga magayatak sa Anak sa Dios, ug magapakawalay bili sa dugo sa pakigsaad nga pinaagi niini gibalaan siya, ug magapanamastamas sa Espiritu sa grasya?
16. Mobiya sa buhi nga Dios - Heb. 3:12 - Magmatngon kamo, mga igsoon, basi nga diha kang bisan kinsa kaninyo maanaa unyay dautan ug dili matinoohong kasingkasing, nga magataral kaninyo sa pagpamiya gikan sa buhi nga Dios.
17. Dunay dili makakab-ot sa kapahulayang dayon tungod sa pagkawalay kahadlok sa Dios - Heb. 4:1 - Busa, samtang nagapadayon pa ang saad sa atong pagpakasulod sa iyang kapahulayan, batonan ta ang kahadlok basi unya hinoon aduna kaninyoy maisip nga wala makakab-ot niini.
18. Ang Taphaw ug pagtoo dili maluwas - 1 Cor. 15:1-3 - Mga igsoon, buot kong ipahinumdom kaninyo ang Maayong Balita nga akong giwali kaninyo, nga inyong gipanagdawat, nga niini nanagbarug kamo karon,2 ug nga pinaagi niini kamo ginaluwas kon inyo kining kuptan pag-ayo-- gawas kon taphaw ra ang inyong pagtoo.3 Kay gihatag ko kaninyo ingon nga labing hinungdanon ang nadawat ko ra usab, nga si Cristo namatay tungod sa atong mga sala sumala sa kasulatan,

Prepared by: Carlito L. Abella Jr.          

                                                                                                         

                                                                                                         

"AUTONOMY!" by David Hicks

"AUTONOMY!"

The word, ‘autonomy' means self-government. This was the Lord's intent for each of His local bodies. Each local church is subject to Christ, His authority, and is independent of each other for the work that the Lord gave them to do. This rule is predicated on two very important things:

1) The principle of independence of each local church.

2) The equality of all the churches of Christ.

 

I. The Lord Gave His Church a Congregational Form of Government.

The Lord designed for there to be elders in each church to shepherd and protect the individual flocks.

Acts 14:23 “So when they had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed.”

Acts 20:28 “Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.”

Philippians 1:1 “Paul and Timothy, bondservants of Jesus Christ,
To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons”

1 Peter 5:2 “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly”

 

These elders, who shepherd the flock according to the doctrine of Christ, only have authority over each local church (“flock” singular, “among you”). In this we see that they have absolutely no jurisdiction in any other location than over those who are among them, and cannot by design extend it any further!

In this we see the Divine order from the Lord for a local church. There is nothing smaller than a local church and nothing larger than a local church. This specific design excludes any other organizational form. It was also given to enhance the individual Christian's role and importance, note:

Ephesians 4:15-16 “but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16 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.”

 

Each body of Christ (singular), through the participation of all its members causes the fulfillment of everything the Lord gave His church (individually – “itself”) to complete (Ephesians 4:12).

As the Lord dealt with His knowledge of each of the seven churches of Asia; He said, “I know your works”individually to each church (Revelation 2:2, 9, 13, 19, 3:1, 8, 15). The Lord closely watched each of His local churches and saw them as individual entities, each working to fulfill the role of an individual body of Christ (some successfully, some not).

 

II. Each Local Church Carried Out the Mission of the Church.

Each congregation did its own work supervised by its own elders. This work included the spread of the Gospel.

1 Thessalonians 1:2-8 “We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, 3 remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father, 4 knowing, beloved brethren, your election by God. 5 For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake. 6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, 7 so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. 8 For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything.”

 

Each local church supported preachers laboring in the field.

Philippians 4:15-18 “Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. 18Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sentfrom you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.”

 

Each church made up its own funds for benevolent work and sent it by its own representatives to see it to the right hands for proper distribution.

Acts 11:29-30 “Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea. 30 This they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.”

 

The disciples of the church in Antioch of Syria, each gave according to their ability, sent the funds via their own chosen ambassadors (Barnabas and Saul), and had it delivered to the elders for proper distribution to truly needy saints.

1 Corinthians 16:1-4 “Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: 2 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. 3 And when I come, whomever you approve by your letters I will send to bear your gift to Jerusalem. 4 But if it is fitting that I go also, they will go with me.”

 

By the order of Paul to the church of Christ at Corinth , the pattern is repeated, just as it was to each of the churches of Galatia . Each church sending its own representative who traveled all the way to the destination to see the benevolence delivered to the elders in Jerusalem (see: Acts 20:4; 21:15-17), each individual disciple giving as they had been prospered.

 

What is conspicuously missing in all of these illustrations is an institutional approach where churches band together in cooperation to fulfill the work that the Lord gave each local church. This due to the fact that the church is not institutional, it is organic! Each local body of Christ is made up of individuals who have been called out of darkness and into the light of the doctrine of Christ (Acts 26:18; Ephesians 3:8-12).

There is nothing given the collective work of the church that cannot be completed by each of the local bodies of Christ independently of one another. Fellowship (joint participation to a common goal) in each church towards completion of each churches work, is done by its individual members working in conjunction with each other.

Romans 12:3-5 “For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. 4 For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.”

 

Each body of Christ shared in many of the same functions independently; such as worship on the first day of the week, partaking of the Lord's supper each first day of the week, collections on the first day of the week, praying, singing, etc…

Acts 2:42; 20:7, 1 Corinthians 11:17-34; 16:1-4; Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16.

However, the only universal thing they shared was a kindred relationship to the Christ as the head of the body.

Colossians 1:18 “And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.”

 

No inter-congregational alliances, no corporate organization, no earthly headquarters, none becoming agents of others. Each church was completely equal and completely equipped to do all that the Lord had given; if it sought the wisdom of the Lord.

Since Christ is the only one to have preeminence in the church, we must avoid at all costs the undermining forces that destroy the autonomous nature of the Lord's church. Where are the local members individually completing the work of the church when community councils decide the work of the church; or presidents, boards of directors, headquarter churches, etc…???

 

God's wisdom must prevail!

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.John 14:6

CHART OF STEVE HUDGINS

                                                  courtesy from Mark Copeland

chart of Steve Hudgins

                                                           courtesy from Mark Copeland

teaching the gospel through visual

THE UNITY OF THE SPIRIT (Jim McDonald, P.O. Box 155032, Lufkin, TX 75915-5032)

"Giving diligence to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:3).

 

This appeal to the Ephesians followed Paul’s urge that they “walk worthily of the calling wherewith ye were called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another  in love” (Eph. 4:1f). By observing the aforementioned things, the Ephesians would “walk worthily of their calling” and also would be giving diligence to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace!

 

Unity in doctrine does not always signify unity in spirit. The fusing together of two hostile segments of society, Jew and Gentile, was not always accomplished peacefully. Even when men are of the same race but exposed to different cultures (such as Hebrew and Grecian Jews), differences arise.  Example, the problem in Acts six where the widows of Grecian Jews were neglected in “the daily ministration.”  Amos’ question “Can two walk together except they have agreed?” is certainly true, whether it be that agreement is upon doctrine or non-doctrinal matters (Amos 3:3).

 

Disputes often arise. The herdsmen of Lot and Abraham quarreled over pastures (Gen. 13:6-8). Barnabas and Paul quarreled over Mark (Acts 15:37-40). The disciples of Jesus quarreled about which of them was the greatest on the very eve of Jesus’ betrayal (Lk. 22:24). It took the lowly task of Jesus washing their feet to shock them back to proper sense of who truly is greatest (Jn. 13:3-11). And the list of things which brethren and congregations quarrel about seems endless. Often separations come and one or the other will intimate the separation was “doctrinal,” thereby offering “justification” for separation. But often the issue was not really doctrine, just a case where brethren had differences in judgment, over likes and dislikes.

 

Separations are not always wrong: Abraham suggested separation to Lot to prevent even more conflict in the future which was sure to come as their herds and flocks increased. But the separation appeared amiable: even after it, Abraham rushed to the aid of Lot, rescuing him from marauders who took Lot and others of Sodom captive (Gen. 11:11-24). When the stench of wickedness in Sodom became so great God determined to destroy it and Gomorrah and revealed those plans to Abraham, the passionate plea of Abraham for Sodom’s preservation was no doubt rooted in his care for Lot.

 

Our care for brethren and the welfare of other congregations should be real and earnest. Paul wrote the Corinthians, “Now if Timothy come, see that he be with you without fear, for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do” (1 Cor. 16:10). The prosperity of other brethren are not for themselves but the for the cause of Christ whom both them and we serve. Therefore, rejoice when other brethren prosper, even though we may not – visibly.

 

Within a local church, if unity of spirit prevails, it will be when brethren walk with lowliness, meekness, and long-suffering toward each other: when they have reached the position they have because all have determined “to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace.” Oh, how difficult it is sometimes to yield to the desires of others, especially when we are certain (and when circumstances later prove) we are right! Oh, how hard to remember Christ’s rule, “As ye would therefore that men should do unto you, do ye also unto them” (Mt. 7:12). Only when every disciples of Christ has this spirit, will peace prevail. Alas, not all have this disposition of heart!

 

The Psalmist wrote: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity” (Ps. 133:11). Jesus said, “Every kingdom divided against itself shall be brought to desolation and every city or house divided against itself shall fall” (Mt. 12:25). We have a formidable foe who seeks our destruction. We need all our efforts to be directed against him, not against each other! Thus we are urged: “Be at peace among yourselves.” 

To access some good sermons at the Kingston Springs Church of Christ in Kingston Springs, Tennessee, go to their website: the website (www.kscoc.com),

 

Ron Halbrook & Harry Osborne Lectured to a Baptist Congregation at Calinan Davao City

we were able to reach landan inspite of the bumpy and rocky road just to share the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ

	Mattew 28:19-20"Go ye therefore, and teach    all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
	Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen."

The False Teacher

By Robertson, John, on March 30th, 2010

The word “false Teacher” is found only one time in the Bible at 2 Peter 2:1.  The apostle Peter wrote, “But there arose false prophets also among the people, as among you also there shall be false teachers…”  Unsuspecting brethren are often amazed that the subject of false teachers is taught from the pulpit with regularity when it is only found this one time in the Bible.  The objective of this article will be instructive regarding the actual frequency of this subject in both the Old and New Testament. The very words “false teacher” suggest a standard of teaching that is violated.  Let us consider the identity, work, effects and the faithful Christian’s responsibility toward false teachers.  Preventative measures are ordained of God that we be not infected with their error (2 Timothy 2:17).

Identity of False Teachers

The Greek word representing “false teacher” is pseudodidaskaloi which is defined as “a false teacher, one who inculcates (to teach by frequent repetition; to instill…) false doctrines” (Moulton’s Greek English Lexicon pp. 441).  One who teaches or instills doctrines that oppose divine revelation is a false teacher.  There are few books in our Bibles that do not deal with this subject in some form or fashion.  To illustrate this point let us connect some associated words.  Peter refers to false teachers as those who “deny the master” (2 Peter 1).  The apostle John identifies those who deny the master as liars and antichrist who “hath not God” (2 John 2:22-23).  Those who “hath not God” are those who teach doctrines that are opposed to divine revelation (2 John 9ff).  Paul warned  the Galatians (Galatians 1:6ff) and Timothy (1 Timothy 6:3ff) of those who would teach a different doctrine.  Due to the frequent attacks against God’s divine revelation Paul pleaded with Timothy to guard the purity of truth (1 Timothy 6:20-21; 2 Timothy 1:12-13).  These verses are all interconnected and reveal the actual frequency that the subject is dealt with in our Bibles.

Jesus warned against false prophets saying that you would know them by their fruit (Matthew 7:15).  Paul said that they “pervert the right ways of truth” (Acts 13:6-10), “beguile the hearts of the innocent” (Romans 16:18), and teach fleshly wisdom as opposed to divine revelation (2 Corinthians 1:12-14).  A clear identifying characteristic of the false teacher is that they “despise dominion and rail at dignities” (2 Peter 2:10).  Those who do not honor people in positions of authority have the germ of a false teacher working within them.  The word of God commands us to honor Jehovah (1 Timothy 1:17; 6:15-16), our parents (Ephesians 6:1ff), elders in the church (1 Timothy 5:17), our employers (1 Timothy 6:1), and government officials (Romans 13:7; 1 Peter 2:17).
During Bible days there were false teachers who had gained a religious following.  Luke identifies the sect of the Pharisees that believed in Jesus yet taught the binding necessity of circumcision and Mosaic Law keeping (Acts 15:1ff).  Paul spoke of the ascetics who bound “the precepts and doctrines of men” (Colossians 2:20ff).  John exposed the Gnostics (those who supposed that they had special knowledge) (1 John 2:20-21, 27).  The apostle John also exposed those who were obviously teaching a once saved always saved doctrine (1 John 1:8-10), that not all God’s commands were binding (1 John 2:4), and the idea that man could sin and somehow remain in fellowship with God (1 John 1:5-7).  The book of Revelation speaks of the erring “teachings of Balaam” (Revelation 2:14) and “the Nicolaitans” (Revelation 2:15).
Peter equates the false teachers to false prophets at 2 Peter 2:1.  A study of false prophets in the Old Testament reveals people who taught religious doctrines that had not been revealed by the Holy Spirit (see Deuteronomy 13:1ff).   Jeremiah warned against the false prophets of his day saying that such men have no shame about themselves as they mislead people with their erring doctrines (Jeremiah 6:13-15 etc.).  Ezekiel said that the false prophets follow their own spirit when they teach things that God had not revealed (Ezekiel 13:1-7).  Habakkuk said that the false prophets spoke lies (Habakkuk 2:18-20) and Zechariah said that they would be made to feel the sting of their shame when the gospel of the kingdom of God was revealed (Zechariah 13:4-6).

The Standard of Truth

People are comforted by things that they can rely on.  When we go to Walmart for a quick stop we know exactly where things are because of our previous visits.  Dog food, for example, is always in the same place.  The same can be said about the word of God.  If I want to learn about baptism, God’s grace, redemption, or the covenants I know where to go.  Book, chapter, and verse its there in the same place saying the same thing year in and year out.  The word of God is also a consistent factor in our lives that never changes.  The prophet Zechariah (1:5-6) and Jesus (Matthew 24:35) tell us that truth does not change.  Truth is indeed a divinely revealed standard identified as a scale that men are weighed by (Daniel 5:27).  Truth separates the wicked from the righteous (Matthew 7:22ff).  Hosea referred to the standard of truth as an unchanging landmark (Hosea 5:10-11).  Amos looked to God’s standard as a plumb-line (Amos 7:7-8).  The Bible tells us that there is only one truth and one faith (Ephesians 4:1ff).
God revealed this unchanging standard of truth to the apostles and prophets by divinely moving them to speak (2 Peter 1:21).  At times, God sent these people divine visions and other times He delivered His message through dreams (see Daniel 7:1; Joel 2:28ff; Amos 1:1; Zechariah 1:7ff etc.).  When these men were moved to write, through divine guidance, it represented God’s standard (see Galatians 1:11-12; 1 Corinthians 14:37).  God commands that men guard the purity of divine revelation so that the standard may remain constant and unchanging (1 Timothy 6:12-14, 20; 2 Timothy 1:12-13).  This standard is recognized as a law (Galatians 6:2) and those who violate it sin (1 John 3:4).  To teach another doctrine that God has not revealed is to pervert the standard (Galatians 1:6ff) and to set oneself up as a god; i.e., a law giver (2 Thessalonians 2:4).
Notice that the apostle Peter begins 2 Peter chapter 2 with the conjunction word “but.” Conjunctions connect and combine things together.  The word “but” demands that we understand that what was said in the first chapter is associated with the subject of false teachers.  Peter sets forth the objective in this epistle at chapter 1:4 saying, “He (God) hath granted unto us his precious and exceeding great promises; that through these ye may become partakers of the (a) divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust.“  The divine nature is altogether opposed to sin and is directly associated with God’s eternal glory (1 Peter 5:10) and man’s equivalent “exaltation” (1 Peter 5:6).  The “divine nature” is the essential characteristics of deity.  When one obeys the gospel he or she is in a state of perfection (Hebrews 7:18-19) and must thereby maintain said perfection (i.e., attain and maintain the divine nature) (see Matthew 5:48; 1 Peter 1:15-16).  This means that we are to think like God (His divine Revelation brings us to a divine nature; see 2 Peter 1:16-21).  When I hear words from man that do not measure up to divine revelation it will give rise to a passionate hatred for the doctrine being peddled because I know that it will destroy the souls of men (see Deuteronomy 14:1-2; Romans 12:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:22; Jude 23; Revelation 2:6).

The Effects of False Teaching

The apostle Peter tells us that one of the effects of false teaching is that “the way of the truth shall be evil spoken of” (2 Peter 2:2).  The truth hurts many.  People don’t like it when someone calls out the name of a false teacher.  People are troubled when someone tells them they are in sin.  These people are bothered by an eldership that tries to do all things by the authority of Jesus Christ.  They speak evil of the truth because it convicts and condemns their teachings and actions.  Their attitude spreads like a gangrene to other members of the body of Christ (2 Timothy 2:17).  Other members of the church will begin to have problems with the eldership.  Members will form factious clicks within the church (1 Timothy 6:3-5).  The function of 2 Timothy 2 is to illustrate the trouble that false teachers bring to the table.  When trouble occurs in the church is not because people are trying to follow God’s authorized words, its because someone is not doing that.  We need to point the finger in the right direction when identifying the trouble people in the church (see Galatians 4:17; 5:10).
Furthermore, false teachers offer a false sense of security (Genesis 3:4; Jeremiah 8:11-13; 2 Peter 2:19).  Such lies “hinder, trouble, and unsettle” the people of God (Galatians 5:7-12).  Truly said teachers are “zealously seeking you in no good way” (Galatians 4:17).  Peter concludes his second epistle by saying, “Ye therefore, beloved, knowing these things beforehand, beware lest, being carried away with the error of the wicked, ye fall from your own steadfastness” (2 Peter 3:17).
The apostle also Peter points out another effect of false teaching and erring doctrines at 2 Peter 2:2-3.  False teachers make merchandise of many Christians.  The ESV and NASV Bibles uses the word “exploit” rather than merchandise.  To “exploit” someone is to “make use of selfishly or unethically… the utilization of another person for selfish purposes” (American Heritage Dictionary pp. 478).    They make merchandise of you by causing not only you but also themselves to feel good about the error they are representing (see also 2 Timothy 3:5-7).  Many who hold to erring doctrines revolving around the marriage, divorce, and remarriage controversy do so because they have loved ones in marriages that violate the standard of truth.  Others hold to these doctrines because they don’t want to be “put out of the synagogue” (on the outs with popular brethren or exposed as different) (see John 12:42-43; 15:20ff; Galatians 6:12-13).
Today, false teachers are hard at work for the same merchandising reasons.  Just look around you.  How many different denominational bodies do you see just in your city?  How many different churches of Christ are there?  It is estimated that there are currently “more than 10,000 separate religions being practiced in the world today.  Within Christianity alone, there are said to be more than 30,000 different denominations” (World Religions – Annual Editions pp. iv).
While the thousands of different religious bodies are teaching a multitude of doctrines the Bible tells us that there is only one God, one faith, and one church (Ephesians 4:1ff).  Surely anyone who is honest with themselves must see that there is something not right with this current religious picture.  The apostle Paul wrote, “Now I beseech you, brethren, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfected together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10).  Again, Paul writes, “Now the God of patience and of comfort grant you to be of the same mind one with another according to Christ Jesus: that with one accord ye may with one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 15:5-6).  Paul commands the Philippian brethren saying, “stand fast in one spirit, with one soul, striving for the faith of the gospel” (Philippians 1:27).
We hear more and more today the phrase, “Attend the church of your choice.”  What that means is go where you feel comfortable.  If you feel more comfortable believing that you have been saved and there is nothing that can cause you to fall from grace then go to many of the Baptists churches.  If you have a loved one that has died yet never obeyed the gospel then join with the Mormons and you can be baptized for that lost loved one.  If you really love this earth and could never fathom it dissolving in fervent heat then join with the Jehovah’s Witnesses who believe that the earth’s existence will never end and God’s people will always dwell here.  If you are sensual you might want to join ranks with the Muslims who teach that a man can have as many as four wives and that when you die you shall have all your sensual desires fulfilled.  If your not satisfied with God’s standard of truth and want something divine that you can put your eyes on and actually feel then join with the Catholics.  World religious statistics reveal millions upon millions of people who have been exploited by these groups.  Worst yet are the millions that have been exploited by unfaithful churches of Christ.

Where is the Fear of God among Men?

The apostle Peter mentions the “swift destruction” that these men bring upon themselves (2 Peter 2:1).  Peter states that God will not “spare” those who teach a different doctrine (2 Peter 2:4-5).  Peter then mentions the examples that God set to prevent people from living and teaching ungodly things such as the great flood of Genesis 6-7 and the overthrow of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 13:13ff) (2 Peter 2:4-6).  There are other things for man to consider.  Man ought to consider God’s thunderous voice at Sinai when God spoke directly to the people and it terrified them (Exodus 20:18-21).  We ought to consider the example of Nadab and Abihu (Leviticus 10:1-4).  We ought to consider the 50,000 people who died because they foolishly gazed upon the Ark of the Covenant (1 Samuel 6:19).  We ought to consider the death of Uzzah (2 Samuel 6:6ff).  We ought to consider God’s thunderous voice as He routed the Philistines at 1 Samuel 7.  God’s people ought to be filled great fear and awe when looking to Jehovah.  The Lord asked Aaron and Miriam where their fear was when they spoke against His sovereign choice of Moses (Numbers 12:1ff).  David asked the Amalekite where his fear was when he killed Jehovah’s anointed King Saul (2 Samuel 1:14).  Where is man’s fear of God today?

What is the Christian’s Responsibility when faced with a False Teacher?

God’s people can do nothing more or less than the Lord and His apostles (Philippians 4:9).  If the Lord does not “spare” neither can we as his beloved saints (2 Peter 2:4).  Recall that Zechariah had prophesied of a day that false teachers would be shamed by the gospel message (Zechariah 13:1-6).  God’s view of false prophets and teachers has never been a secret.  Moses commanded that the people of God were not to pity, spare, or conceal these people in any way (Deuteronomy 13:4-5, 8-9; 20:16-18).  Deborah displayed her conviction against the ungodly by saying, “So let thine enemies perish, O Jehovah” (Judges 5:31).  Those today who give said teachers the right hand of fellowship have greatly erred (2 John 9-11).  God’s people ought to be united, rather than annoyed, at the exposing and calling out the names of those men and women who teach error.  Yes said event will be shameful and embarrassing to that individual and this is as God would have it that they may turn from their error.  Consider the fact that Jeremiah named 5 false prophets (teachers):  Hananiah, Pashhur, Ahab, Zedekiah, and Shemaiah.  Micah named Balaam, Omri, and Ahab (Micah 6:5, 12-16).  The apostle Paul exposed Hymenaeus and Alexander (1 Timothy 1:20), Hymenaeus and Philetus (2 Timothy 2:17-18), and Jannes and Jambres (2 Timothy 3:8).  Jesus called the names of the scribes and Pharisees with regularity (Matthew 5:20; 16:11-12).  We ought to contend with these people because souls are at stake (Jude 3; Revelation 2:6).  Paul refers to this contending with false teachers as “fighting the good fight of faith” (1 Timothy 6:12).

What can I do to Prevent myself from being made Merchandise of by False Teachers:

The best defense against a false teacher’s poison is spiritual growth (2 Peter 3:18).  The word of God reveals the serious nature of erring doctrines (see Deuteronomy 20:16-18).  Therefore all doctrines presented must stand the test of the standard of truth.  We must put to test all doctrines we hear (Galatians 1:8-9; 1 John 4:1ff).  Those doctrines that do not measure up to the Lord’s divine revelation are to be rejected.

Gospel Meeting At Glan,Sarangani Province

 

Doing the First Works: The Mission of Christ and His Church

By Smith, Marc, on April 7th, 2011

What Exactly IS the Mission of Christ and His Church? This seems like such an obvious question, yet there is so much confusion about such a simple and straight forward question. Is it possible to quickly walk through the clear steps listed in scripture, the book, chapter and verse, so to speak, to make easy understanding of this subject? I believe it is easy to do, if we give it even a few minutes of thought. Remember, every Christian is supposed to be able to describe this (1 Peter 3:15). Have you felt guilty because you never gave this even a little time to work this out?
Remove the guilt right now! Here is the solution: Let us attempt to clear the cobwebs of misunderstanding brought on by the practices of the religious world and focus right now only on what the word of God actually says. Go with me step by step so that you can follow what God has told us is the truth about this subject. About 15 minutes of your time is really all you need. If you want to avoid any confusion DO NOT Google this subject! Your New Testament is the only source you will need to establish the truth of God’s word in your understanding.
A. It all starts with Jesus and His original purpose in coming in the way He did, born as a human being (declared by God – Matthew 17:5, Jesus is to be heard – remember, Jesus is the “Word” – John 1:1-5; 1 John 1:1-7, He came into this world to save mankind from being lost in sin. He is also the Creator who spoke all things into existence in Genesis 1, and amazingly, at the judgment He is to be our judge as well – John 5:22). Enduring the same temptations as any man, yet without sinning (Hebrews 4:15), He was to be the perfect sacrifice, ending the old law which required animal sacrifices every year to put away the sins of the Jews under the old law (the law of Moses which was for the Jews only but is “nailed to the cross” and a new law is now in effect – Colossians 2:11-14). This is also why the New Testament is THE ONLY LAW to which all of mankind is now responsible. The old law, i.e. the Old Testament is only for our learning and is not applicable for law or prophecy in our age.
B. By His death, burial and resurrection from the dead, Christ had accomplished His goal to save the souls of all of mankind by the means of hearing the word of God, having faith in Christ, to turn from sins, confessing the name of Christ and be baptized for the remission of sins. – Acts 2:36-41; 8:35-39; 1 Peter 3:21. In this way the mission of Christ has been achieved: the only way for the souls of man to be saved from eternal damnation – Acts 4:12; 14:27
C. The beginning of the Church of Christ – Acts 2:42-46.  Once we have met the conditions to receive salvation we are added by the Lord Himself – Acts 2:47; 1 Peter 2:5.
D. Membership in a local church is required, following the example of Saul of Tarsus – Acts 9:27-29. We are to worship every first day of the week with the local church – Acts 20:7, and we are to submit to the leadership of the local church we are members of and help in this way to maintain the discipline of the church – Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2-3
E. Many of us are constantly amazed at the way religion in the name of Christ is shown all around us. The religious world of our time evidently does not know what the mission of the New Testament Church is to be. What is now the established order and what we see everywhere we look are denominational groups enthusiastically being involved in and funding literally everything they can imagine and doing these things in the name of God without ever seeming to worry about whether their efforts are actually of God or not. Without the authorized will of God from His word, such religions (invented at the whims of men), still claim that “their God” would endorse them – Colossians 2:20-23.
F. But what IS the mission of the church of Christ? Flying in the face of contemporary denominational religions is that the Lord wants the work of the local church to be limited and focused on just three things. The apostle Paul set out to inform the congregations of God’s people what the mission or work of the Lord’s church was to be.
The Mission of the Church is:

1. Preach the Gospel – Ephesians 3:10-12
2. Perfecting the Saints – Ephesians 4:11-16; Hebrews 10
3. Caring for the Needy – 2 Corinthians 8:4

G. How Long Do We Continue This? This might be the simplest of all of these points: Jesus said, “..occupy till I come” (Luke 19:13)! Christians have been doing this since the church was established in Acts 2. Christ will return someday in the same manner as He departed – Acts 1:9-11, “Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, 11 who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”

Bulakanon Davao Del Sur VBS and Gospel Meeting

                 The Sin of Complaining

                       By Rogers, Heath,

James said that the tongue is “a world of iniquity” (James 3:6). Indeed, there are numerous sins that can be committed by or aided with the misuse of the tongue. When one thinks of the sins that are committed with the tongue, he often thinks of things such as lying, speaking blasphemies, using profanity, and gossip. However, we rarely consider complaining to be a sin.
Americans are granted the freedom of speech, and many of us exercise this right with pride and passion. We think very little of voicing a criticism or complaint about another’s driving on the highway or service at a restaurant. We see it as our civic duty to complain about our elected officials. We feel that the price we paid for admission to a sporting event gives us the right to let the players, coaches, and umpires know if they are doing a lousy job. We even have careers that are based upon the practice of criticism (restaurant critic, movie critic, etc.). Our society abounds with criticism. For this reason, some Christians have a difficult time viewing complaining and criticizing as a sin.


Complaining is a Sin
In First Corinthians chapter ten, Paul used the negative example of the Children of Israel as a means of admonishing the Corinthians to faithful service.

6 Now these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted.
7 And do not become idolaters as were some of them. As it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.”
8 Nor let us commit sexual immorality, as some of them did, and in one day twenty-three thousand fell;
9 nor let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed by serpents;
10 nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer.
11 Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.
1 Corinthians 10:6-11

The Children of Israel committed many sins as they made their way from Egypt, and these sins had severe consequences. We may not think much of complaining, but it is listed along with lusting after evil things, idolatry, fornication, and tempting Christ. While most Christians would never dream of lusting after evil, bowing down to an idol, fornicating, or tempting Christ, many of us are often heard complaining.
The complaining that was done by the Children of Israel was a sin that was deserving of God’s wrath. They were destroyed by the destroyer. We are told to take heed to their example and not “complain, as some of them also complained.” Thus, we can rightly understand that complaining is a sin.
The New Testament contains additional passages which condemn the sin of complaining. James warned, “Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!” (James 5:9). While the Children of Israel were destroyed for complaining against God, this passage warns that we will be condemned for complaining against our brethren. The Judge is “at the door,” and He hears the way that we talk about one another. Grumbling and complaining against brethren is a sin that is worthy of condemnation.
Peter admonished Christians to “be hospitable to one another without grumbling” (1 Peter 4:9). Hospitality requires a sacrifice on our part, but any good that is accomplished by our hospitality is undone by our complaints.
Paul said, “Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:14-15). “All things” is a very inclusive statement, leaving no area available for complaints. If a Christian who refrains from complaining is “blameless and harmless,” then what does that say about the Christian who is complaining? It is unfitting for the children of God to be complaining. When we complain like those in the world, we lose our distinctiveness (our “light” goes out) and we blend in with the rest of the world.
Jude said that the heretics of his day were characterized by grumbling and complaining. “These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage” (Jude 16). Complaining is characteristic of those who are wicked, not those who are righteous. It is characteristic of those who God destroys, not those who receive His blessings.

Why Complaining is Such a Serious Sin
1. There is a place for legitimate complaints. A complaint arose in the early church (Acts 6:1). The Greek speaking widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of benevolence. The apostles did not condemn those who were voicing the complaint. They took steps to correct the injustice and make sure that it never happened again.
Injustices need to be exposed in order to be corrected. It is not a sin to point out faults and errors that pose a threat to the wellbeing of others. However, most complaints are not legitimate. They are efforts to vent frustrations, intimidate others, cast off blame on others, etc.
2. We are to bear with one another, not complain about and find fault with one another.

“I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:1-3).

Complaining and fault finding is not conduct that is worthy of the gospel of Christ. We were “called” while we were sinners. Who are we, after we have been saved by the grace and mercy of God, to turn and find fault with our own brethren? We are to walk in humility, patiently bearing with our brethren, not complaining about them. It is impossible for brethren to maintain unity while they are casting complaints against one another.
3. We are to walk in love towards one another.

“Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma” (Ephesians 5:1-2).

We are to “love one another fervently with a pure heart” (1 Peter 1:22), not find fault with one another. It is impossible to complain sinfully about our brethren if we are walking in love towards them. Love, by its very nature, does not lend itself to complaining.
“Love suffers long and is kind,” but complainers are not. “Love does not envy,” but complainers are often envious of others. “Love does not parade itself, is not puffed up,” but complainers desire to draw attention to themselves. Love “does not behave rudely,” but complainers do not hesitate to be rude in making their point to others. Love “does not seek its own,” but complainers are often self-focused. Love “is not provoked,” but complaints come from those who are easily provoked. Love “thinks no evil,” but complainers often see evil motives and intentions in everything that is done by others, and they keep a record of evil deeds done by others to use in future complaints. Love “does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth.” Complainers never rejoice about anything. Love “bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” Complainers are not willing to give their brethren the benefit of the doubt (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
4. Complaining against God is an offense to God; it is a great sin! Complaining denies God of His sovereignty and make us His judge. “But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, ‘Why have you made me like this?’ Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor?” (Romans 9:20-21). Complaining denies God’s care and provision for our physical lives (Mark 4:38, Matthew 6:32, 7:11).
None of us is in a position to complain against God, His ways, or His law. “‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,’ says the LORD. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts’” (Isaiah 55:8-9). God gives us life and breath and all good things (Acts 17:25, James 1:17). His commandments are not burdensome (1 John 5:3). His yoke is easy and His burden is light (Matthew 11:28-30).
5. Complaining takes the place of prayer. The time that we wasted hopelessly complaining about our problems is time that we could have spent in prayer unto God. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (James 5:16), but complaining never accomplished anything.
6. We are to count our blessings, not voice our complaints. We have many spiritual blessings in Christ. We are adopted as children of God, we receive the forgiveness of our sins, and we stand to obtain an eternal inheritance in Heaven (Ephesians 1:3, 5, 7, 11). God has promised that we have His continual care. “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we may boldly say: ‘The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?’” (Hebrews 13:5-6). Paul says that “we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us” (Romans 8:37). When was the last time that you heard a conqueror complain? If we would spend more time counting our blessings, we would have less time to complain and would find less things about which to complain.
7. We are to learn to be content, not complain.

“Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:11-13).

Paul said, “I can do all things,” but many of us seem to complain about all things. We need to learn to be grateful for what we have, as opposed to complaining about what we do not have.
8. Complaining does not advance the cause of Christ. In fact, it distracts from the cause of Christ. In Philippians 2:14-15, Paul said that we are to do all things without complaining and disputing. By doing so, we become blameless, harmless, and without fault, shining as lights in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. However, when we complain, that light goes out. There is no longer a beacon drawing men unto Christ. Perhaps the best thing we can do to help the church to grow is to stop complaining about how the church is not growing.
Complaining discourages brethren. The complaints of the Israelites made Moses want to die (Numbers 11:11-15). How many elders, deacons, Bible class teachers, and preachers have wanted to step down because of the continual complaints of their brethren? One of the most discouraging facts about complaining is that complainers rarely do anything other than complain. When given the opportunity to make a positive contribution to the cause of Christ, they often don’t – either because they do not know how, or they are not willing to subject themselves to the criticism of others.
9. We need to get busy. God did not call us to complain, but to work (Ephesians 2:10). If we have the time and energy to complain, we have time and energy to do things that are constructive and productive – things that will bring glory unto God. Remember the old saying: “The person rowing the boat is too busy to rock it!”

Conclusion. Complaining does not accomplish any good for our spiritual lives or for the cause of Christ. It brings down efforts, stifles enthusiasm, causes dissatisfaction, discontent, and division. Complaints directed toward God are a sin on par with idolatry and fornication. Christians are not to grumble against one another lest we be condemned. Instead, we are to do all things without complaining and disputing. Let us strive to be more like Barnabas, the Son of Encouragement, and less like the complaining Children of Israel who failed to enter the Promised Land.

The Meaning of the Church that Christ Built

Sitio Toril New Dumangas Gospel Preaching

Lemlahak Lake Sebu,South Cotabato Gospel Meeting

Gospel Meeting at Malapatan Sarangani Province

Meaning of Baptism

MARK 16:16"He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned."