Home | Christian Resources | Christian Links | Links | Site Map
June, 2001
By Bernie Parsons - June 1, 2001
This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. 1 Timothy 3:1 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible mentions elders (also known as bishops), deacons, and many others who actively participate in the growth and function of the church, the body of Christ. In fact, all members are to be active participants. God has given us different duties to discharge. The ruling elders are to have oversight, and their qualifications and duties are spelled out in the scriptures, especially by the Apostle Paul. (Some think that Timothy wanted to be an elder, and Paul was telling him how to become one. However, based upon what Paul wrote to Titus, it is likely that Timothy, like Titus, was also appointing elders.)
1 Timothy 3:1-7 "This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil."
Titus 1:5-11 "For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake."
Some pertinent observations: some say that a church cannot exist without ruling elders. Yet Paul left Titus in Crete to ordain elders in every city where the church existed. If the church cannot exist without ruling elders, how did the Cretan churches exist without such elders? Next, note that elders were ordained by the evangelists, not by church vote as many do today. I see importance in this fact. The evangelists appointed men who were capable, mature, and respected. A local congregation might choose a man for his wealth or standing in the community at large, or kinship, rather than for spiritual considerations. Apparently the elders were paid for their services. They were not to be swayed by "filthy lucre", or reward money given for handing down a favorable decision. Yet, they were "worthy of their reward", to be compensated for their services.
1 Timothy 5:17-19 "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward. Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses"
They were not to be "lords" over the church, severely ordering people about. Instead, they were to lead by example, as a shepherd leads a flock of sheep to pasture.
1 Peter 5-3."The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away."
James 5:14-15 "Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him."
The duties of a ruling elder are demanding. Elders are charged with teaching the congregation, seeing to the needs--both spiritual and material--of the members, setting the tone for the local church, and persuading non-believing members of the community to become Christians. There are a plurality of these pastors, or elders, in each congregation--not just one as we often have today that we usually refer to as "the minister", or "the preacher".
In the church I see in the Bible, the elders are mature, spiritual, respected members of the church who oversee the flock of God. They grow the church by persuading others to become Christians, and then nurturing those born again Christians to spiritual maturity.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 4, 2001
And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. Colossians 1:18 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
In the church of the Bible, there are no earthly headquarters, no single man or group of men who decide what the church believes and practices. In the church of the Bible, Christ is the head of the church, which is described in scripture as His body. The Apostle Paul declared that Christ has authority over us. God said we are to listen to Jesus.
Matthew 17:5 "While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him."
1 Corinthians 11:1"Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ."
1 Corinthians 11:3 "But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God."
After all, Jesus is Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, the author and finisher of our faith!
Revelation 1:8 "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty."
Hebrews 12:2 "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Mark 16:19 "So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God."
Romans 8:34 "Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us."
If Christ is in heaven, then how can we hear Him? Does He speak to us in a still, small voice? Does He speak to us through some man, like the Pope? Before sitting at the right hand of God, He first revealed the will and word of God to us, which word we still have to study and learn.
Hebrews 1:1-3 "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high:"
The gospel is written down, describing the life and teachings of Jesus. This word was carried into all the world. This is the word of God.
Acts 1:1-3 "The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen: To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:"
Mark 1:1 "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;"
Mark 16:15 "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature."
John 3:31-34 "He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony. He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him."
Acts 4:19-20 "But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard."
Acts 22:14-15 "And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard."
1 John 1:1-5 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all."
The church that I see in the Bible takes her doctrine and orders from God through Jesus, as recorded by His apostles and disciples--which is the Bible, the written word of God.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 5, 2001
Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: Philippians 1:1 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
In the church of the Bible, holy men called deacons assist in the leadership of the
church.
1 Timothy 3:8-13 "Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to
much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure
conscience. And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon,
being found blameless. Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful
in all things. Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and
their own houses well. For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to
themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus."
There are not many details on the functions of deacons in the early church. Some have said
that ruling elders (bishops) look after the spiritual matters of the church, while the deacons
look to the material matters. However, the word deacon derives from roots that mean
"servant", or "messenger". This carries with it the idea of one who
bears word, and who meets the needs of others. These are still spiritual matters. Note
that while elders are said to have oversight of the members, the same is not said of
deacons. Rather than building a "church hierarchy" as most religions do, I see
these roles as different, but one no more important than the other. Such impartiality is
in keeping with the teachings of Christ and the apostles.
1 Timothy 5:21 "I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect
angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing
nothing by partiality."
James 2:1-4 "My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of
glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold
ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have
respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good
place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not
then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?"
Mark 9:33 "And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was
it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? But they held their peace: for by the way
they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest. And he sat down, and
called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be
last of all, and servant of all."
1 Corinthians 12:18-20 "But now hath God set the members every one of them in the
body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body? But
now are they many members, yet but one body."
All other roles and functions within the body of Christ are vital to the success of the
body, the church.
The church that I see in the Bible has elders to oversee and teach the members,
and deacons to teach and serve the congregation.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 6, 2001
Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. 1 Corinthians 12:27 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
In the church of the Bible, evey member has a function, and is therefore important to
the body, the church, of Christ.
I Corinthians 12:27-31 "Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And
God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers,
after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have
all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly
the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way."
1 Corinthians 7:7 "For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath
his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that."
Romans 12:3-8 "For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among
you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly,
according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. For as we have many members
in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in
Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the
grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion
of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he
that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness."
One member is not more important than the other.
I Corinthians 12:14-19 "For the body is not one member, but many.
If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore
not of the body? And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body;
is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If
the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every
one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where
were the body?"
There is to be no division, no crack, no split in the body resulting from one person, or
group, thinking that they are more valuable or more important than the others.
I Corinthians 12:25 "That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members
should have the same care one for another."
We must understand that the health of the human body relies upon the health of all its
members--its parts and organs. In like manner, the body of Christ, the church, depends
upon the health of all its members.
I Corinthians 12:26-27 "And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with
it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of
Christ, and members in particular."
Romans 12:15-16 "Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be
of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low
estate. Be not wise in your own conceits."
Ephesians 4:16 "From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that
which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every
part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love."
In the church I see in the Bible, we all have a job to do to ensure a healthy,
growing body of Jesus.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 8, 2001
Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. John 5:39 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
Since the church leadership is in heaven--not on earth--the elders, deacons, and other
church leaders can only require of the congregation what God requires, and can only allow
what God allows. Since God has spoken through His son, Jesus, and Jesus taught the will of
God to His apostles and disciples, who subsequently wrote down the teachings of Christ,
then it is vitally important that we study those writings.
The church of the Bible encourages every individual to study the Bible as the written
description of the will of God. Study is more than merely reading the scriptures. We must
also ask what they mean, who wrote each document, to whom, and when? What salient point
was being made, or what spiritual attribute was being cultivated?
John 5:39 "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they
are they which testify of me."
Luke 24:32 "And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he
talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?"
Acts 17:11 "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received
the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those
things were so."
2 Timothy 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not
to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
2 Timothy 3:14-17 "But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast
been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast
known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith
which is in Christ Jesus. 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 perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."
1 Peter 4:11: "If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man
minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be
glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever.
Amen."
Jesus was the Word of God made flesh.
John 1:1 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was
God."
John 1:1-14 "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of
God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will
of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt
among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full
of grace and truth."
That living word of God was passed on to the apostles.
Matthew 28:18-20 "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto
me in heaven and in earth. 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 church that I see in the Bible studies the Bible, learns the will of God,
practices it on a daily basis (in every aspect of life), and teaches others the will of
God.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 11, 2001
If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour. John 12:26 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible walks after Jesus and keeps the will of God in every way.
Matthew 16:24 "Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me."
Romans 6:4 "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."
Romans 8:1 "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit."
Romans 8:4-5 "That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit."
Galatians 5:16 "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh."
Ephesians 2:10 "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."
Ephesians 4:1-3 "I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
Ephesians 5:1-2 "Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour."
Ephesians 5:8-10 "For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord."
Ephesians 5:14-17 "Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is."
Philippians 3:16-17 "Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample."
1 John 2:4-6 "He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked."
The church that I see in the Bible is one that walks in the way of Jesus and in the will of God.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 12, 2001
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Mark 16:15 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible carries the gospel of Christ out to the world.
Mark 16:15 "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned."
This indicates that the church is to take the gospel to the world. Christians often do just the opposite, trying to persuade the world to come to the church building where we can preach at them. Jesus met the people on their turf, so to speak.
Luke 15:1-2 "Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them."
Matthew 9:11-12 And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."
Luke 7:39 "Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner."
The gospel is for all, especially for those who are in the worst condition.
Matthew 11:4-5 "Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see: The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them."
1 Corinthians 1:26 "For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:"
Luke 7:41-43 "There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged."
The Apostle Paul tackled the lost on their own home court, as it were.
Acts 17:22-23 "Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you."
The parable of the sower, presented by Jesus, shows that we are to broadcast the seed (the word of God) without regard to what we surmise is good soil. The word is to be spread everywhere.
Matthew 13:3-8 "And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold."
Acts 8:4 "Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word."
The church that I see in the Bible takes the gospel into all the world instead of trying to drag the world into the church building to hear it!
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 13, 2001
Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Matthew 5:13 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible also teaches by living godly before the world.
Matthew 5:13-16 "Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Colossians 4:5-6 "Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man."
The church of our Lord Jesus Christ is the salt of the earth. It is that which enhances and preserves.
Romans 12:17-18 "Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men."
1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1 "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved. Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ."
2 Corintihans 8:21 "Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men."
1 Thessalonians 3:12 "And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:"
1 Thessalonians 5:14-15 "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men."
1 Timothy 3:7 "Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil."
The church that I see in the Bible sets a good example before unbelievers, expressing love of the brotherhood and love for those on the outside.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 14, 2001
Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? 1 Corinthians 5:6 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The Bible church, the body of Christ, seeks the loving restoration of members in error, as one part of the human body responds to another part of the body that is in need of healing. Sometimes, these members are so alienated from the body that they do not respond to loving restoration and must be dealt with more harshly. Sometimes the unresponsive member is simply ignored.
Romans 16:17-18 "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."
In other situations an ongoing problem is dealt with by an ongoing treatment.
2 Thessalonians 3:10-15 "For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.
And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother."
Sometimes the afflicted member completely resists the healing influences, much like a cancer growing out of control. The Bible church takes more severe measures in such instances, like a surgeon removes a cancer.
1 Corinthians 5:1-12 "It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife. And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you.
"For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
"Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.
"I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?"
This is in keeping with the instructions of Jesus.
Matthew 18:15-17 "Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican."
Ephesians 5:25-27 "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish."
The church that I see in the Bible is mature, healthy, and holy. Offending members are restored or removed.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 15, 2001
I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. 1 Timothy 5:21 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible does not show partiality. Salvation is for everyone. The church is for everyone. All members are vital members of the same body.
2 Peter 3:9 "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."
Partiality sows strife in the body of Christ, creating envy and pride. It cultivates a "holier than thou" attitude among the elevated and a feeling of resentment and rejection among the scorned.
James 3:17-18 "But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."
1 Timothy 5:21 "I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality."
For peace in the body of Christ, there must not be partiality.
James 2:1-6 "My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:
"Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?
"Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?"
Those likely to be most celebrated and honored are usually the most selfish and oppressive. Those usually overlooked or reviled are the humble folks of ill means who wish only to serve the Lord. The Lord does not permit the perversion of judgment for money, prestige, or power.
Leviticus 19:15: "Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour."
Deuteronomy 1:17: "Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall
hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of
man; for the judgment is God's: and the cause that is too hard for you,
bring it unto me, and I will hear it."
Deuteronomy 16:19: "Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect
persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise,
and pervert the words of the righteous."
In the church that I see in the Bible, there is no partiality. Honor and power are not given to someone because of their wealth or standing in the community. Everyone is treated with equal respect and honor.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 19, 2001
But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. Romans 7:6 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible seeks to keep the spirit, or intent, of God's teachings, and not merely the "letter of the law". We are not to be as the Jewish Pharisees, who proclaimed the word of God, but did not follow it.
Matthew 23:1-4 "Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, Saying The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not. For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers."
Romans 2:28-29 "For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God."
2 Corinthians 3:5-8 "Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?"
Jesus issued warnings to this effect in several of His teachings.
Matthew 5:27-28 "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart."
Matthew 15:18-20 "But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man."
The church that I see in the Bible devotes itself to understanding and obeying the will of God, rather than just going through the motions, or following traditional rituals.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 21, 2001
But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. Matthew 15:9 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible does not substitute tradition for the will of God, and does not teach traditions as church doctrine.
Matthew 15:7-9 "Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men."
Matthew 15:1-3 "Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?"
Many religions are founded upon the beliefs and opinions of men. The Lord's church is founded upon the Lord. Therefore, we must not live by words of men, but by the word of God.
Romans 10:1 "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
Matthew 4:4 "But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."
Men bind burdens upon others that are unreasonable and ungodly.
Colossians 2:20-3:1 "Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, (Touch not; taste not; handle not; Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men? Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body: not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh. If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God."
Matthew 23:4 "For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers."
We need to be rooted and grounded in God's truth, not in man's tradition. Those who teach otherwise are to be avoided, for they serve not God, but themselves.
2 Timothy 3:13-17 "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 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 perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."
Romans 16:17-18 "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."
The church that I see in the Bible does not replace the will of God with the traditions of men.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 22, 2001
And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith. Luke 17:5 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible consists of believing people who trust Jesus, and God, His father.
Matthew 17:20 "And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you."
John 20:29-31 "Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name."
Matthew 21:21-22 "Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive."
Can you imagine how much Christians can accomplish if they trust God, and believe in what He can do?
Hebrews 10:38-11:1 "Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."
Hebews 11:6 "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."
1 Peter 1:6-9 "Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls."
The church that I see in the Bible is full of faith.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 25, 2001
So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Romans 12:5 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible is non-denoninational--that is, it does not purport to be a faction or sect of the church, but seeks to become the church, as described in the Bible. Many proclaim that denominationalism is fine, because we are all members of the body of Christ, regardless of our "church affiliation". Yet these same groups often follow traditions as doctrine, substitute the commandments of men for the commandments of God, follow the opinions of a particular "prophet" or "leader", and look to men to decide issues of faith, rather than looking to God.
Matthew 16:18 "And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it."
John 10:27-28 "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand."
1 Corinthians 1:12-13 "Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?"
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 might have the preeminence."
Colossians 1:24 "Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:"
Colossians 3:15 "And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful."
Any serious student of the Bible must acknowledge that there is only one church, and that church belongs to Christ--therefore, it is the church of Christ. Any attempt to splinter off into sects or factions is against the plan of God for the church.
1 Corinthians 12:25 "That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another."
Mark 3:24-25 "And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand."
If the kingdom of God is divided, it cannot stand. Yet, the kingdom of God is everlasting.
2 Peter 1:11 "For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."
1 John 2:19 "They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us."
The church that I see in the Bible is a single, non-denominational entity, known as the body--that is, the church--of Christ.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 26, 2001
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Mark 16:15 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible is engages in preaching the gospel to the lost.
Acts 8:4 "Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word."
Acts 11:19-21 "Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the LORD Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord."
Acts 2:5-11 "And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God."
Colossians 1:5-6 "For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:"
Colossians 1:23 "If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;"
Romans 10:13-17 "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
The church that I see in the Bible works incessantly to carry the gospel to the lost.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 27, 2001
And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. Acts 2:46-47 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible is aware of the condition of its members, and works to meet their needs while teaching them about the truth of God's word. Are any without proper food, shelter, clothing, or medical care? Are any weak in the spirit, in need of encouragement? The church must be aware of these needs of its members, then must work to meet those needs. If we neglect to do so, we are not the church found in the Bible.
Acts 2:44-47 "And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved."
By meeting from house to house, we become aware of the needs and conditions of our members. So many of us only see our fellow Christians at the place of assembly, the "church building".
Acts 20:18-21 "And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, Serving the LORD with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews: And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ."
James 1:27 "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."
This word visit as used in this passage means to meet the needs of the fatherless and widows, not merely to show up and say, "Hello". How can we bear one another's burdens, if we are unaware of each person's burdens?
Galatians 6:2 "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."
Philippians 2:4-5 "Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:"
Do we have this mind that Christ had? After all, does not the name Christian imply that we are like Christ? We need to turn off the television, the music device, the game machine, the computer, and the video player, and get out and mix among the people. If we don't, we will never be the Christians that we claim to be.
Matthew 25:34-40 "Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
The church that I see in the Bible is aware of its members' needs, and works to encourage and support them.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 28, 2001
Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. Acts 5:29 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible doesn't compromise the truth.
John 18:37-38 "Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice. Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all."
John 17:17 "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth."
Hebrews 6:18 "That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:"
Matthew 4:4 "But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."
Since Jesus brought the word of God to us, and God has all truth, and God never lies, then it is important that the church learn all the teachings of God. Once learned, those instructions must be followed entirely and without regard for man's contrary opinions.
Acts 5:27-29 "And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us. Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men."
John 16:1-3 "These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me."
Matthew 10:38-39 "And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it."
2 Timothy 4:2-4 "Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables."
James 1:17-18 "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures."
Ephesians 4:13-15 "Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 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; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:"
Hebrews 13:8-9 "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein."
The church that I see in the Bible learns the truth of God's will, and stands by it, no matter what the consequences may be.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
By Bernie Parsons - June 29, 2001
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12 KJV
Hello, Family & Friends,
The church of the Bible will suffer persecution.
2 Timothy 3:10-13 "But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived."
Evil people hate and fear righteous people, because the life of the righteous leaves no excuse for the sins of the wicked. The wicked basically argue that it is impossible to live righteously, therefore they are excused for their ungodliness; or, it doesn't matter how you live life, because feeling good at the time of pleasure is what life is all about. The righteous prove them wrong on both counts.
Titus 2:11-14 "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works."
Romans 1:18-21 "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened."
John 3:17-21 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God."
Ephesians 5:11-13 "And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light."
1 Peter 4:12-14 "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified."
The church that I see in the Bible suffers persecution because those who live in darkness (in sin, and of the world) reject the light of God's truth.
God bless all!
Love, in Christ,
Bernie
