What follows is a series of brief studies from God's word about various subjects that we grapple with today. Originally published in our local paper, we have reproduced them here to give you a wealth of food for thought. Remember, God's word has given us "all things that pertain unto life and godliness" (2 Pet 1:3). So if you've got questions, God's word has all the answers! Just click on one of the topics below and prepare to be amazed by what the Bible has to say.
"Action speaks louder than words!" The Lord Jesus referred many times to this common expression. Of the religious crowd in His day He said, "This people honoureth me with their lips but their heart is far from me." (Mark 7:6) Today, much is spoken of the "silent majority" that are strong and moral in belief, but weak in action. Many times a crime is committed against an individual and passive on-lookers take no action to stop the criminal. If there is one central request that the Bible presents to mankind, it may very well be "Take action!"
When the children of Israel were captives in Egypt, God determined to save them from their bondage. He brought a series of horrible judgments upon their captors to show His power over their idol gods. The final judgment would be the death of every first born child in every home in Egypt. But God had shown the Jews the only way this judgment could be avoided. They were to shed the blood of a lamb and apply its blood to the posts and lintel of their door. God promised that when He saw the blood over their door, the angel of death would pass over them. But A-C-T-I-O-N was required! It was not enough to just believe Moses, or understand the instructions, or appreciate God's mercy. A-C-T-I-O-N was the only remedy. Faith had to result in A-C-T-I-O-N! By faith the blood had to be APPLIED to the door. Other examples: By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice. By faith Noah prepared an ark to the saving of his house. By faith Abraham obeyed God and went out of Mesopotamia on his spiritual sojourn.
When Adam and Eve sinned in the garden, fell from grace, and became separated from God, taking the whole human race with them, our Lord took action. The Lord Jesus Christ became a man, walked on this earth for 33 years, and died upon a cruel cross that you and I might be saved from sin. That was A-C-T-I-O-N! When our Lord arose from the grave to give mankind life everlasting-that was A-C-T-I-O-N! When you become a born-again Christian, the Holy Spirit of God immediately comes to dwell within your heart. That is A-C-T-I-O-N! For over 4,000 years God has preserved His Word for you in His Holy Scriptures-The Bible-that you and I might find life and direction for our lives. That is A-C-T-I-O-N!
Reading these articles, being impressed with their approach, noting the truth that is being stated, remarking to a friend how touched you are by God's truth will not give you eternal life! You need to take A-C-T-I-O-N! Just like our Lord and Savior did!
This is the action to take: "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." (Romans 10:9) After you have repented of your sin, and trusted by faith the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, it is important that you receive proper Bible teaching and training. Do not be deceived, you need to be a part of a Bible-preaching, Bible-teaching, Christian-training church. Take A-C-T-I-O-N!
We are looking forward to seeing you at our next service. Be a "doer of the word" not a hearer or reader only.
The Lord Jesus had much to say about adultery. He went so far as to say that even the very thought of adultery is sin. The Bible teaches us that those who practice this and other types of immorality will surely come under the judgment of God. "Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, no idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God." (I Corinthians 6:9-10)
In the Old Testament, someone caught in the act of adultery was to be put to death. What a difference there is between how God looks at adultery and the way we exalt it on television and in the movies. Our promiscuous society will not escape the penalty for their sins. The Bible says, "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." (Galatians 6:7)
For any one that has been overtaken in this sin, there is only one hope-it is the forgiveness that Christ offers to all who repent of their sinful condition and believe on Him for eternal life! Whether you are a man or a woman, it makes no difference. God is ready to forgive you if you will only ask Him to. The Bible says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (I John 1:9) Isn't it wonderful to know God loves us so? Will you pray this prayer, "O, God, forgive me of my sin. I believe that Jesus Christ died for me and rose again the third day. I receive Him now as my only hope of salvation."?
The Lord Jesus warns us in the above scripture verse, that as this world draws closer and closer to Judgment Day people will grow more and more insensitive to one another. Having been so taken up with pursuits of self-pleasure, we now find ourselves living in this "ice cold" condition. We have become unconcerned, inconsiderate, and intolerant toward each other. The great upsurge in local neighborhood violence is evidence to this truth. Family murders, child abuse, child molestation, rape, and kidnapping cover the front pages of every newspaper.
Our immoral society, allowing profanity and vulgarity on television, illicit sex at the movies, and gross pornography in magazines, has victimized us and "chilled" us away from wholesome values. Loss of warm emotions and natural affections have brought our feelings below the freezing point. Taking care of "number one" has made us apathetic.
Children are unruly and rebellious, being victims of insufficient parental love. It is nearly impossible to keep the family together. One of every two marriages is headed for the divorce courts. We have lost the war for the pursuit of happiness. Victory is beyond us. Genuine love that brings compassion, loyalty, fidelity, and self-sacrifice seems gone forever!
Even though man has fallen into this cold and apathetic condition, the fervor of god's love has continued to remain constant. Amid all this confusion, the Bible says, God, in longsuffering patience and tender loving kindness, has His hand "stretched out and still." The Lord Jesus says, "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." (Revelation 3:20) His invitation is: "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Isaiah 1:18)
Although the world may be heading toward disaster, God is calling all, as individuals to repent of sin, ask Christ for forgiveness, and trust Him as the only hope of salvation. Do not be cold, insensitive, and apathetic to the loving call of the beckoning Savior.
"I have loved you, saith the Lord." Malachi 1:2
For centuries men have gazed into the sky with wonder at its vastness and its mysteries. Volumes have been written, theories have been formulated, all attempting to unlock the secrets of the origin and the purpose of the heavens. Yet, God’s Word is crystal clear concerning the origin and purpose of the heavens and the earth: "Of old has thou laid the foundation of the earth: and the heavens are the work of thy hands." (Psalm 102:25)
"He hath made the earth by his power, he hath established the world by his wisdom, and hath stretched out the heavens by his discretion." (Jeremiah 10:12)
"When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; …O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!" (Psalm 8:3,9) God is the divine creator of the heavens and they declare His glory!
Concerning the "heavens", God’s Word reveals a great number of scientific truths that were hidden within its pages for many centuries.
For many hundreds of years, astronomers thought that the moon gave off its own light. The book of Job—the oldest book in the Bible—in Chapter 25, Verse 5 says, "Behold even to the moon, and it shineth not;".
It wasn’t until after Columbus that the world decided to catch up with the Bible on the fact that the earth is round. Isaiah 40:22 says, "It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth,". The Bible has always had the answer!
For centuries astronomers tried to number the stars—Ptolemy counted 1,056; Brahe, 777; Kepler, 1,005. Eventually this scientists came to agree with Jeremiah 33:22, "...the host of heaven cannot be numbered,".
As amazing and powerful as God, the Creator, is, He is also just as personal and loving. While mortal man is not capable of even counting the stars, look at God’s personal knowledge and concern for every distinct part of His creation. Psalm 147:4 says, "He telleth [counts] the number of the stars; he calleth them all by their names." God also knows your name and is concerned about your spiritual condition. God, the Lord Jesus Christ, is so interested in you that He gave His life on the cross so that you could be saved from sin. If you will admit that you are a sinner, repent of that sinful condition and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Redeemer, you can be saved today! Just as the verses above are remarkably accurate and true in regard to the heavens, the following Bible verse is true in regard to God’s concern for you. II 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."
Contrary to popular tradition, baptism is an ordinance, not a sacrament. The word "sacrament" can not be found anywhere in the Bible. The Bible says, "Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you." (I Corinthians 11:2)
Baptism pictures our union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. It is an action taken after a person has been saved. Water does not nor can not save anyone. The Bible says, "the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." (I John 1:7) When we stand in the water to be baptized, we picture the fact that we have been crucified with Christ; when we are placed under the water, we picture our burial with Him; and when we are lifted up out of the water, we picture our resurrection with Him. (Romans 6:4) Hence, baptism is only a picture which gives public testimony to the fact that a man belongs to the Lord Jesus and is identifying with Him in His death, burial, and resurrection. The Bible says that baptism not only gives public testimony but also is "the answer of a good conscience toward God." (I Peter 3:21)
If you have been saved, it is our desire to show you that the Bible commands you to be baptized. Your responsibility is to give a public testimony that you have been saved. If you have never been saved, no amount of water in the world will be able to save you. You must admit that you are a sinner, confess that sin to the Lord Jesus Christ, (not any man!) and trust in Him as your Savior. It is a free gift. You cannot earn salvation. You cannot be good enough to be saved. You must come as a sinner and accept God's free gift. The Bible says, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." (Romans 10:13)
The most popular name in all the world is the blessed name of Jesus Christ. People have spoken His beautiful and holy name more than any other name in history. His name is called upon in times of prayer, in times of sorrow, and in times of thanksgiving. His name is praised and exalted, worshipped and admired, by all those who have experienced His love and forgiveness. A multitude of hymns and spiritual songs have been written to magnify His name. Congregations of Bible-believing Christians across the face of the earth have sung glory to His blessed and holy name in every language known to man.
Blessed be the name of the Lord Jesus Christ!
The name of the Lord Jesus Christ is so blessed and so holy that any one who ever spoke of Him blasphemously, or in vain shall one day give account to God in judgment. Imagine the horror of the hour, bowing before the fierce anger of God, guilty of trodding under foot the Precious Name of His only begotten Son. The Bible says, "Every idle world that men shall speak they shall give account thereof at the day of judgment." (Matthew 12:36) There will come a day when all those who have used His name in vulgarity and shame shall weep and mourn because of it. The Bible says, "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:9-11)
The salvation which God offers to man is available to all who will admit that they are sinners. Whether you have taken the Lord's name in vain, lied, or even stolen, (whatever your sin may be) Christ is willing to forgive and pardon you. With forgiveness and pardon comes the gift of eternal life. Call upon His holy name today and be saved.
Nearly 4,000 years ago, when God delivered the Jewish people from their bondage in Egypt, He told each of them to take the blood of an innocent lamb and place it on the doorpost of their home. He said, "when I see the blood, I will pass over you," (Exodus 12:13). God did not say when I see your good works, I will pass over you. He said, "when I see the blood, I will pass over you." The salvation of the nation of Israel that night was dependent solely on the shedding and applying of the blood of the lamb.
The Bible teaches that every man and woman is under a much greater bondage than were those Jews in Egypt. This greater bondage is the bondage of sin. The only deliverance from this bondage is the blood of Jesus Christ which He shed for us on the Cross of Calvary. Speaking of Christ, the Bible says, "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." (John 1:29)
God's love was so great that He was willing to send His only begotten Son into the world to die for us, release us from this terrible bondage of sin, and give us eternal life. Have you admitted your guilt of sin, repented of that sin of God, and accepted God's Lamb as the only Salvation from the bondage of sin?
The Bible tells us you can be forgiven by the blood of Christ. "In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: (Colossians 1:14).
The Bible tells us you can be cleansed by the Blood of Christ-"the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." (I John 1:7)
The Bible tells us you can be justified (freed from blame) by the Blood of Christ. "Much more then, being justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him." (Romans 5:9)
Have you been forgiven, cleansed and justified? Are you ready to meet with God?
Consider the many times we all have looked around only to see the general lack of concern and respect most people show towards each other. In view of this we would have to repeat the words of David-"no one cares!" How many times have you made the comment "who cares?". First Bible Church would consider it a privilege in a "who cares" society to show you who really does care.
God the Father cares-God's Holy Spirit is concerned that you will not reject the invitation to heaven through the Lord Jesus Christ. "Wherefore as the Holy Ghost saith, To-day if ye will hear his (God's) voice, Harden not your hearts," (Hebrews 3:7, 8).
The angels care-There is rejoicing in heaven when one sinner becomes saved. "...there is joy I the presence on the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth." (Luke 15:10)
Jesus Christ cares-No one could care more for you than the Lord Jesus. He laid down His life on the cross, suffered the torment of hell, that you might be saved. "For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich." (II Corinthians 8:9) "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," (Hebrews 12:2).
First Bible Church cares-The purpose of all our articles is to show the people of Staten Island that there are some who really do care about them. In this mixed-up, "who cares" society, won't you realize that the Lord has provided a perfect plan of salvation so that you might have eternal life. He has revealed this plan in His Book of Life-the Bible-to prove that He cares for you. Won't you admit that you are a sinner, repent of your sin, and ask Jesus Christ to come into your heart and be your Savior? This salvation comes from Someone who cares!
If we were to stop and analyze our definition of the word Christian, I wonder, could we come up with a clear-cut meaning of this very important word? To the early Apostles, being called a Christian did not imply that one had a comfortable, moral, and religious way of looking at life. Unfortunately, this is the way scores of people view Christianity today. To the early Apostles, being a Christian meant trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior by faith alone. Then, after being saved, the Christian faith meant the denouncing of any other religion, cult, or way of life, and living exactly as the Lord Jesus Christ taught. This often meant persecution and death. It was a 24-hour a day, 7-days a week life. It was clear in those days that Christianity was not a religion; it was faith in a Man, the God-Man, Jesus Christ. Belief in the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior made it worthwhile for the early Christians to obey their Lord's Word and walk a godly, Christ-honoring life. While this article's definition of Christianity is not a popular definition, nor is it a popular message, nevertheless, the definition and message are the same for today. Malachi 3:6 says, "For I am the Lord, I change not;". Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came to this earth for one reason-to give life to the lost! The Lord says He came, "To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance (eternal life) among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me." (Acts 26:18) Christianity is faith and trust in a Person and His Message; and this is His message-"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." (John 20:31)
Do not be fooled by empty, watered-down, modernized religions that call themselves "Christian." Trust the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior today, continue in His Word, and seek a Bible-believing church for direction in your real Christian walk! Remember, salvation is a free gift, but upon being saved the Christian walk is, "your reasonable service." (Romans 12:1)
As sure as you are reading these words, it is inevitable that you will one day die. Have you ever stopped and asked yourself why? The Bible has the answer: "...as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:" (Romans 5:12).
It is because of the disobedience of one man, Adam, that we are all born sinners. Therefore, because we are all sinners we must all die. "For the wages of sin is death;..." (Romans 6:23). Since death is sure and absolutely certain to overtake all of us, it becomes life's most frightening anticipation. But why is death so dreadfully fearful? The Bible has the answer: "He that believeth on him (the Lord Jesus Christ) 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." (John 3:18)
Death is so frightening because Man, as a sinner, stands condemned before the Almighty, Holy, Righteous God. If we measure ourselves against God's perfect standard, the Lord Jesus Christ, we see our condemned condition. What has God done to reverse our plight? The Bible has the answer: "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8)
The Lord Jesus Christ lived a perfect life for us. Having done this, He then died on the cross for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day. God in His infinite love made a way for you to stand uncondemned before Him. Now, what must you do about your sinful plight? The Bible has the answer: "...Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved,.." (Acts 16:31).
Now may we at First Bible Church invite you to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior? Once you've received Him into your heart, there is no more fear of death, for he has "...the keys of hell and of death." (Revelation 1:18)
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24)
Duty is a word that has practically been erased from the minds of the average American. In 1828, when America was still standing firm on Biblical principles, duty was defined as, "that which a person owes to another; that which a person is bound, by any natural, moral or legal obligation to pay, do or perform." Obedience and respect to parents is the DUTY of their children. The training and instructing of their children is the DUTY of all parents. Kindness and consideration to neighbors is a DUTY in all cultures. Adhering to city, state, and federal laws is the DUTY of all citizens. Yet, there lies this great and so often forgotten foundational obligation which supports all of the above duties-our supreme DUTY to God.
The Bible tells us "...Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man." (Ecclesiastes 12:13) Unable to keep the high moral requirements of the Law of God, man sinned. This failure of fulfilling our DUTY to Almighty God has left us perishing in condemnation. The just condemnation for sin is eternal separation from God in hell. "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8) By His death on the cross the Lord Jesus Christ paid our debt of condemnation. The just, perfect, holy Son of God took our place and our punishment. It was a great debt to pay, but the Lord Jesus Christ loved us that much!
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved" (John 3:16, 17)
The Lord Jesus Christ fulfilled His DUTY to God the Father by His perfect life, death, burial, and resurrection. For Jesus said, "...I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me." (John 6:38) It is our prayer at First Bible Church that you will fulfill your DUTY to God by receiving the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior from sin and condemnation.
Although there are sorted types of religious leaders who set themselves up, high upon their perches, receiving praise and even worship from innocent people, the emphatic cry from the pages of God's Holy Word is "...there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" (Romans 3:22-23). Do not be fooled by the pious mask of these religious hypocrites. From cover to cover, the Bible consistently, without room for exception, declares that the heart in every man (rich or poor, honored or despised) is wretched and evil. In Jeremiah 17:9, the Scriptures declare, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked:".
There is nothing more evil than the hypocrite. Long robes and fancy vestments only add to the hypocrisy of the religious deceiver. The Bible says that they "by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple." (Romans 16:18) The hypocrites tell people that good works can lead a man to heaven. They say a man can please God through church attendance, keeping church rituals, or merely by living a moral life. Jesus called them vipers, children of the devil. He said they themselves shall not "escape the damnation of hell." Speaking face to face with the religious hypocrite of His day, Jesus said, "But woe unto you,..., hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in." (Matthew 23:13)
Don't follow religious hypocrites who set themselves up as infallible, sinless beings and tell you that their religion is the key to heaven. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6)
The only righteous one that ever lived was our Blessed Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The Bible says He alone was "...holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners," (Hebrews 7:26). The Lord Jesus was the only one, "Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:" (I Peter 2:22).
Jesus Christ paid for your salvation on the cross of Calvary when He cried, "It is finished." He did all the work! All you need to do is call unto Him. You must admit that you are a sinner, repent of your sinful condition, and t5rust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone as your Savior.
"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." Romans 10:13
We have mentioned previously in an article that excuse-making is a way of life. Many people are willing to expend more time, money, and energy to make up an excuse for their wrong doing than to actually do what was honest and right in the first place. It "seems to be" an easy, convenient, natural way to get out of trouble. Yet, the Lord God makes it very clear that when any person stands before Him, that person will have no excuse for not knowing the truth about God and His marvelous plan of salvation.
"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:" (Romans 1:18-20).
With our articles, First Bible Church has attempted to show people the marvelous truths of God as written in His Holy Word. All these truths have led every person to this one fact: God is interested in man. So interested, that God became flesh, in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ, lived on this earth that He created, preached a message of power and love to a people that He created, and then died on the cross at the hands of an unloving creation. All this Jesus Christ did that we might be saved from our sin. He then arose from the grave that you and I might have eternal life.
Any person that might read this or any other of our articles is now without excuse. The plan of salvation is plain and clear: Admit-that you are a sinner and that Christ died for sinners; Trust-by faith in the death of Jesus Christ for forgiveness of sin; Believe-by faith that Jesus Christ arose from the grave to conquer death and give you eternal life! This is Bible salvation and any other way to eternal life is a perversion of the truth. Don't make an excuse today that you will be sorry for when you meet God. In that day there will be no excuses!
"How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation;" Hebrews 2:3.
There is coming a day when God Almighty-the Lord Jesus Christ-shall judge the world for all their sin. (Revelation 20:11-15) The Bible declares that there is coming a day, "...when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ..." (Romans 2:16). Are YOU ready to have your secrets judged? The omniscient eyes of God have been watching YOU since the day of your birth-"The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good." (Proverbs 15:3)
God sees everything you are doing, have done, and ever will do. No matter how secretive, no matter how dark the night, "they eyes of the Lord are in every place" and God has seen that evil deed.
"Thou has set our iniquities before thee, our secrets sins in the light of thy countenance." (Psalm 90:8)
God has said that He, "shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil." (Ecclesiastes 12:14) One day you will stand before "the Son of God, who hath his EYES like unto a flame of fire..." (Revelation 2:18). How will it be in that day? Will you face the eyes of the Lord Jesus Christ as a condemned sinner or as a forgiven sinner? The Lord Jesus Christ died on the cross for your sins, was buried, and rose again the third day for you. (I Corinthians 15:1-4) Now, will you...???
By putting faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you will be forgiven of your sins and stand uncondemned in the eyes of God the Father.
Who is your god? What is his name? How do you worship him, and where can he be found? Is he the God of the Bible, the Lord Jesus Christ, or is your god the god of your imagination, framed by your own thoughts and designs?
Is your god the god of pleasure? The man whose god is the god of pleasure soon finds his god never satisfies. The god of pleasure is a god that promises great thrills and excitement but delivers only sorrow and tragedy in the end. The god of pleasure eventually entraps men and enslaves them in drunkenness, drug addiction, and wicked obsessions.
Is your god the god of success? The man whose god is the god of success soon finds that his god will fail him. The god of success drives men to the depths of tension and stress. He forces sacrifices that are shameful and unbearable. The god of success demands more and more and leaves men inwardly hollow and spiritually bankrupt.
Is your god the god of public opinion? The man whose god is the god of public opinion soon finds that his god is vain and worthless. The god of public opinion changes like the weather. It tosses men to and fro in its winds and never takes them anywhere. The god of public opinion is a carrousel of foolishness.
Is your god the God of the Bible? The God of the Bible is the only True God; He is the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe. He is the God whose tender hand reaches out to all who have been victimized by the false gods of pleasure, success, and public opinion. The God of the Bible is near to all that call upon Him. He is willing and able to save all those who would turn to Him. The God of the Bible is the Lord Jesus Christ who died for our sin and rose again from the dead for our deliverance. He now calls all men to repentance and faith in Him. Will you pray this prayer; "Lord Jesus, I am a sinner and I am caught in the web of my sin. I can not escape. I believe you died for me and that you rose again. Forgive me and save me."
"There is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me. Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else." Isaiah 45:21-22
With the enormous number of divorces, desertions, and runaway children destroying the unity of family life, it is a comfort to know that there is a family that will never be broken up. A vibrant, growing family that has already endured for centuries and promises to continue to remain complete and whole for time and eternity.
The Father of this family is a faithful and gracious provider and has never failed in any promise. He watches, guides, and cares for all His children and is never too busy to consider their requests. He comforts them in every sorrow and gives strength and encouragement day after day. No one but the Father Himself knows the exact number of children in this family because so many new sons and daughters are born every day.
Who is this Father we speak of, and does such a family like this exist? The Father is God, the Lord of heaven and earth, and the family is the spiritual family of born-again Christians.
The only way to enter this spiritual family of God is to be born of God's Holy Spirit. The Lord Jesus said, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God...That which is born of flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again." (John 3:3, 6-7) There are no exceptions, whatsoever, for the Bible clearly states, "Now, if any man have not the spirit of Christ, he is none of his." (Romans 8:9)
The reason husbands fight with their wives and children rebel against their parents is because the cancer of sin lives within the heart of each and every one of us. It is sin, living within us, that makes us impatient, stubborn, inconsiderate, and selfish. Only Christ can take away our sin and give us a new heart. The Bible teaches, that if you would repent of your sin and ask the Lord Jesus Christ to forgive you, God the Father will give you His Holy Spirit and place you into His loving family.
Famine is a very real, very serious problem that faces our world in this troublesome time. Starvation is not a pleasant thought and is a plague that should be stamped out. However, the Bible is very clear that a famine of food as terrible as it may be, is not nearly as terrible as a famine "of hearing the words of the LORD."
Physical food may feed the mortal body, but once life has passed, mortal man is faced with the reality of eternity. What will you do with the eternal future of your soul?
It is written in John 6:35, "And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst."
This world is in need of spiritual food and that nourishment comes only from the Lord Jesus Christ, the True Bread of Life. First Bible Church counts it a privilege to present the message of Life, the gospel of Jesus Christ. This gospel is recorded in I Corinthians 15:3-4-"...how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:."
When was the last time you heard this gospel message? Is there not then a true famine "of hearing the words of the LORD?" Won't you consider these words of Life and by faith trust in Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?
Of major concern to God is helping people overcome their fears. The only true way to overcome our fears is to realize God's loving concern for us, and His ability to meet our every need. Consider the following examples of fears and God's provision for them.
The Bible teaches that while on the cross, the Lord Jesus Christ fearlessly tasted death for every man as He hung in utter darkness. He was separated from God His Father, and paid the price for our sins-the fiery judgment of a Holy God! He is the author and finisher of our faith, and the conqueror of all our greatest fears. Won't you trust in Him today and be saved? "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him."
In a day and age when it is easy for a person to become fooled, tricked, or even swindled, it pays to be cautious before you venture into an agreement with someone. A wise man will study about a product before he purchases it. A wise man will read and research a contract before he signs it. A wise man will carefully evaluate the character of a man before he makes an agreement with him. These are all very wise habits to practice when considering any type of arrangement with any individual or group of individuals.
With so many different religions around, and each one making their own claims, the Lord has given us a fool-proof means of judging them.
"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
The Way-Does your religion or belief give you the exact way to live your life and the exact way to know how to go to heaven? If it doesn't, don't be foolish; shun it. The Bible says you can know the way. "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." (John 3:3)
The Truth-Does your religion or belief have an absolute authority of truth to base its doctrine upon? If it doesn't, don't be foolish; avoid it. For the Bible says, you can find the truth. "Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth forever." (Psalm 119:160)
The Life-Does your religion or belief guarantee you eternal life when death takes you? If it doesn't, don't be foolish; discard it. For the Bible says, you can have life. "Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:" (John 11:25).
Consider the wise way of salvation, and eternal life the Lord Jesus Christ has to offer you, and be saved today. Salvation is a free gift of God and can be had by simply repenting of your sin and receiving Jesus Christ as your personal Savior.
The Lord Jesus Christ knows what it is like to be forsaken. The Bible tells us that in His most trying moments all His disciples, "forsook him, and fled" (Matthew 26:56). The crowds who had so joyously praised Him crying, "Hosanna, Hosanna" on Palm Sunday soon became the angry mob that yelled, "Crucify Him, Crucify him." Yes! Jesus knows what it is like to be forsaken. The Bible calls Him, "a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief" (Isaiah 53:3). As He hung on the cross Jesus cried, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46) Jesus was forsaken by His heavenly Father because at that moment He was dying for the sins of the world. It is our sin that keeps us separated from God.
We are in despair and sorrow because our sin has separated us from God. The Lord Jesus Christ is ready to forgive you and take away your sin. He is ready to give peace, joy, happiness, and comfort to any one who calls upon Him in humbleness and contrition. "The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart: and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit." (Psalm 34:18) Jesus said, "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28) Those who repent of their sin and trust the Lord Jesus Christ receive eternal life. Having eternal life, you will know your sins are forgiven and that you will go to heaven when you die. Jesus said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."
There have been many dark and gloomy days in the history of mankind. One could write volumes on the subject. But the darkest, most horrendous day this world has every known was the day the human race nailed their Creator to an old rugged cross. The Bible says He was, "taken, and by wicked hands," was "crucified and slain:..." (Acts 2:23).
While so much needs to be said of the actual nailing of Christ to the cross, (for by His death, salvation has come upon all men) let us focus for a moment on the infamous act that led to His crucifixion.
It was late at night and the Lord Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane. His disciples had fallen asleep as he knelt there praying to His heavenly Father. Suddenly, without warning, an angry mob rushed in with swords and staves to take Him. In the darkness of that night as this angry mob seized Him, a burning torch revealed the familiar face of Judas Iscariot. Jesus looking upon him said, "Friend, wherefore art thou come?" (Matthew 26:50) Judas cold heartedly leaned closer and placed the kiss of betrayal upon the face of the Master. Jesus said, "Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?" (Luke 22:48) The Bible says it was Judas who, "was guide to them that took Jesus."(Acts 1:16) Jesus was betrayed, betrayed by His friend and for what? The Bible says Judas betrayed his master and friend for 30 pieces of silver. What a paltry sum.
In marked contrast to the unfaithful friendship of Judas, the Bible tells us, Jesus is "a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." (Proverbs 18:24) It says in the Gospel of John (speaking of Jesus' relationship to His friends), "he loved them unto the end." (John 13:1) Jesus is called the "friend of sinners." The Bible says he, "gave himself for our sins." (Galatians 1:4) While on the cross, Jesus died for us. The Bible says, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13) Jesus said, "Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you." (John 15:14)
Don't betray the friendship of Christ. Fulfill His commandment and trust Him today to save you from your sin.
This world has been very successful in its attempt to disguise the true meaning of the word love. Today, most people use the word "love" when they actually mean lust, desire, affection, or even admiration. All of these words are attached with strong feelings; nevertheless, they all fall very short of God's meaning of the word "love." God's love was an act of mercy with no thought of repayment for His kindness. His manifestation of love to mankind was the single most powerful act that this universe will ever encounter. For when the Law of God--Justice--said that sinful man must die for his sins, the Love of God went into action and sent His Son to pay the price for the sins of man. Death on the cross and hell, was the price we should have paid, but the Lord Jesus took our place, because He loved us. The Bible says that the Lord Jesus Christ, "gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world," (Galatians 1:4). The Bible also says, "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8) Have you ever met anyone that ever loved you as much as the Lord Jesus?
Friend, consider the love of God. Consider how short life on this earth actually is. Won't you agree there is more to life than just making money, getting ahead, or looking forward to retirement? When you consider that God loved us enough to make a way for us to go to heaven, the so-called important things of this world are surely nothing in comparison! Accept God's love today and be saved. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
If the average reader of this article was to examine his own personal status, he would realize that he, like the majority of Americans today, is relatively well off. Our citizens are blessed people. Our constitution provides the average American citizen with certain freedoms, liberties, and responsibilities that make this country the greatest. In spite of some national problems, these statements still remain true. Ours is a blessed nation.
The Bible states that when a nation is blessed, it is God that blesses her. When an individual person is blessed, it is also God that blesses him. The above scripture provides the reason for God's blessing upon your life. Look at your own life. Can you not see the "riches of God's goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering"? Your personal possessions; your health; your position; your wealth (at whatever level it might be) were all given to you as a blessing from God to lead you to Him!
The miracles that the Lord Jesus did while on this earth were to show His people the goodness of God. His walk, His talk, all His deeds, were to manifest one thing-the goodness of God. Finally, the Lord Jesus died on a cruel cross. He took the pain, punishment, and suffered anguish from the hands of angry men. They ripped Him down from that cross and placed Him in a borrowed tomb. Jesus Christ went through all this for one reason-to show you the goodness of God that you might be saved!
"For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich." II Corinthians 8:9
One more thing-Jesus Christ did not stay in that borrowed tomb-He arose from the dead!! He did this to give you life, eternal! Do not despise the riches and goodness of God. Thank God for His blessings, recognize your sin and guilt, repent and be saved today.
The Gospel message is that God became a man, was born in a lowly manger, born of a peasant-virgin without the assistance of a physician. Jesus came to this earth as the son of a carpenter, and lived 30 years in obscurity. Even during the ministry of Jesus Christ, He sought no throne nor crown. He came to wash feet, heal the sick, and give life to the hopeless. The Bible says He, "took upon himself the form of a servant." He was taken one day before the authorities and accused of crimes that He had never committed. He was sinless, but still He was willing to give His life without incident or even rebuttal. The Bible says He was "brought as a lamb to the slaughter...so he openeth not his mouth." The authorities whipped Him, stripped Him, planted a crown of thorns upon His head in mockery, and placed a cross upon His back. That day He was crucified with two criminals and yet, in the midst of such a travesty, He looked about and prayed, "Father forgive them for they know not what they do." They took that lifeless body off the cross that day and placed it in a borrowed tomb. A giant stone was rolled in front of it. Roman guards were placed at the entrance to ward off zealots who would steal Jesus Christ's body to falsely proclaim that He had risen.
The authorities were relieved that they had gotten rid of another rebel. Satan and his spirits were also ecstatic that Jesus Christ has been taken out of the way. Now, they thought, man would have no hope but to spend an eternity in hell.
But the third day at the tomb brought bad news for Satan and the authorities and good news for you and I. God rolled the stone away and Jesus Christ arose from the grave with victory over death and Satan! Now Jesus proclaims, "I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore." The Lord Jesus Christ now sits at the right hand of the throne of God and offers eternal life and forgiveness of sin. If you will admit that you are a sinner, believe in the gospel message written above, and let the Lord Jesus Christ be you Savior, and you can be saved today!
To many people grace is nothing more than a short prayer before dinner. Yet grace, according to the Bible, is the goodness of God bestowed upon lost and dying sinners. It has its origin in the very heart of God. Grace is unmerited favor, totally undeserved by us, yet graciously bestowed upon us by God through-and only through-the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Bible says that Jesus Christ, by the grace of God, tasted death for every man. God's simple plan of salvation is that His only begotten Son should enter into the world to save sinners. This the Lord accomplished by tasting the death of the cross, once for all.
Eternal life is given to us by receiving the person of the Lord Jesus Christ through faith. He was our substitute on the cross for our sins, and His blood is our redemption. That payment for sin was His work and His work alone.
The Bible says in Titus 3:5, "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, ...".
Also, in Romans 3:24-25, "Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation (satisfactory payment) through faith in his blood...".
In Romans 11:6, "And if by grace, then is it no more of works:...".
Before you take your next meal, consider the free grace of God, for this is the true meaning of grace.
Our prayer at First Bible Church is that you will realize and acknowledge that you are a sinner, repent of your sins, and accept the resurrected Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior.
Come look with us at the Bible's description of heaven and God's heavenly city, the "New Jerusalem," as recorded in Revelation 21.
"And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes;...And he carried me away...and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem,...Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;...And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. And the foundations of the wall of the city wee garnished wit all manner of precious stones...And the twelve gates were twelve pearls;...and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass...And the city had no need of the sun,...for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof."
Contrary to popular belief, not all people will dwell in the celestial city described above. We, by our sinful nature, are unworthy to dwell in the presence of a Holy God. Only be recognizing your unworthiness, (for all have sinned), and trusting in the sacrificial death of the Lord Jesus Christ for those sins, can your eternal residence in this heavenly abode be assured.
The Book of Life is open. The Lamb, the Lord Jesus, is waiting, ready to record your name. Trust Him today. Eternally in hell without God, or a home in heaven with God, the choice is yours.
The portion of scripture to the left is a true account, not a parable. It is the tragic description of a man that had everything, yet lost all at death. His wealth, his status, even his good works were not enough to keep him from a burning hell.
You may ask this question-How can God be so cruel as to send a man to hell? The answer is simple-hell was created for the devil and his angels, not for men. If a man goes to hell, he sends himself there, by rejecting God's love. Friend, you need not go to hell.
You may ask this question-Who will go to hell? Because of sin, the Bible teaches us that all are bound for hell. But friend, you need not go to hell.
You may ask this question-If I am bound for hell, how do I keep from going to hell? The answer is simple. The Bible teaches us in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
The Lord Jesus Christ tasted death for every man, suffering the agony of hell while on the cross. By realizing we are sinners destined for hell, and by placing simple faith in Him as our substitute, we will escape the judgment of hell.
"How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation;..." Hebrews 2:3
Friend, you need not go to hell!
This world in which we live offers many things, but does not offer hope. Sorrow, pain, disease and death knock on every door. Heartaches, disappointments and despair visit every home. Victories never last and joy is but for a fleeting moment. New things become stale and bright things become faded. The Bible says, "For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:" (I Peter 1:24).
For Christians our hope is in the Lord Jesus Christ. In Him we have eternal life. Through the power of His resurrection we know that everlasting blessedness awaits us beyond the grave. Job was looking forward to life after death when he said, "Though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God."
When any man, by faith, trusts in the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior, he receives the certainty of this wonderful hope. The Bible says he is "passed from death unto life" (John 5:24). Jesus Christ firmly stated, "I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:" (John 11:25).
Though Christians suffer all of this world's trials and pains, our comfort in time of trouble is the knowledge of this great hope, "Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast," (Hebrews 6:19).
Friend, you also may have this hope of eternal life which transcends the grave. Simply admit that you are a sinner, repent of your sins and trust in Jesus Christ, the Eternal Son of God, as your payment for those sins. Upon believing this in your heart and confessing this with your mouth, the Lord God, will immediately give you hope-eternal life!
Many people, sensing their need to reach God, sometimes begin to bow down to carved statues and images, worshipping and praying to them. These so-called "aids to worship," along with all other religious articles, are strictly forbidden in the Bible. The religious exercises of this sort not only fail to reach and impress God, but also are an abomination in His sight.
The Bible clearly teaches us that there is one and only one way to God the Father. That way is through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. There is no other mediator. The Bible firmly declares, "There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; who gave himself a ransom for all," (I Timothy 2:5-6). Therefore, praying to the departed dead, whether they are in heaven or hell is totally of no avail. This is why the Lord Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6) It is to Christ alone that we must pray. It is Christ alone who died for you. It is Christ alone who arose from the dead. It is Christ alone who can take away your sins. It is Christ alone who gives eternal life.
The Bible tells us that Christ left Heaven to become our Savior. "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners;" (I Timothy 1:15). You can reach God only through the Lord Jesus Christ and you can freely come to Him at any time. The Bible says, "Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them." (Hebrews 7:25)
If you want your sins forgiven, their guilty stain removed, peace with God, and eternal life, your only hope is in the Lord Jesus Christ. You must pray this prayer, "God be merciful to me a sinner. I believe that Christ died for me, rose again, and by faith I believe he alone can save me. Have mercy on me and save me for Christ's sake."
The facts of salvation for eternal life are quite clear. The reason the Word of God was given to man was to present the clear cut message of salvation-called the gospel of Jesus Christ.
AND THIS IS THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST
"Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel...how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:" I Corinthians 15:1,3,4
"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." Romans 10:9, 13
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." John 5:24
Regardless of anything anyone could possibly tell you, the most important, crucial, critical, immediate question you need to ask yourself is: Where will I spend eternity, heaven (eternal life) or hell (eternal death)? Considering our relatively short life span and comparing it to the longevity of eternity, you would have to agree on the importance of an answer. Considering the unpredictable nature and timing of death, you would have to agree on the immediacy of an answer. Considering the true nature of a just and unchanging God, you would have to agree on the cruciality of an answer. It is time for you to answer this great question-Where will you spend eternity? Salvation, according to the above verses, offers eternal life, and with it peace of mind. Any other decision offers death! The decision is yours. Will you make it right now? REMEMBER-indecision is a decision-the wrong decision!
"And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life." John 5:40
Four centuries ago a very religious priest was sitting in a monastery stooped over an open Bible. He was a good man, of the highest moral fiber. He was a man that had given up all material wealth to serve his God. He was proud, and deservedly so, of the dedicated life that he led. Frankly, there were few that could have matched his devoted work for the church and his Lord. Yet, it was a shocked man that day who read in Romans 1:7, "The just shall live by faith." Martin Luther had suddenly realized that he, though a just man, was living a life of works, deeds, and tradition. His intentions were admirable, but this stunned priest, as the Word of God began to show him, came to see that all his human efforts fell short in the eyes of a Holy God. The Bible said that salvation and eternal life came by faith alone, and not the collection of good works. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
There are thousands of good, honest, and very just people on Staten Island today who are of the same high moral fiber. Many of them are perhaps reading these very words. Yet all people must come to the reality, just as Martin Luther did, that the Bible, not a church or a religion, is the final authority on eternal life and God. Eternal life in heaven comes only by faith in the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ on the cross as atonement for sin.
Friend, the devil will do all that he can to make this gospel seem too simple, or too cultic, or even make you feel (as good a person as you might be) that you can work your way to heaven. But the simple fact is "The just shall live by faith." The devil will try to make you follow a religion, philosophy, or even your own set of values (and they may be virtuous); anything so that you won't heed the real authority, the Bible, which states: The just shall live by faith."
Come out of the dark ages of superstition and tradition, just as Martin Luther, and be saved by faith today; for this is the hope of eternal life with God.
Today, as always man is ever pursuing a better life. Scientists, doctors, and inventors are working seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day to make this life better. They are discovering new uses for the laser beam, they are developing new micro-computers, and they are studying the DNA molecule to unlock the mystery of life. They are working hard to make this life longer, better, and more abundant. Yet, without the true life that comes from God alone, these advancements are temporary and futile at best.
As man works diligently to attain a more abundant life, we hear a still small voice in the background of this hustle and bustle saying "...I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." (John 10:10) As usual, man is off and running searching philosophy, religion, and science; but to no avail. As he searches we hear again that still small voice saying, "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of me. And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life." (John 5:39-40) The still small voice that we hear today is the very same voice that men heard almost two thousand years ago when God became a man in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ. This abundant life that everyone is looking for is not found in a religion, a philosophy, or a science; but in a person-the Lord Jesus Christ. It was His voice that cried, "It is finished." on the cross of Calvary thus putting an end to all of mankind's futile attempts at temporary solutions for abundant life. In John 14:6, "Jesus saith...I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Will you repent of your sin, and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved today? If so, you can then begin to enjoy a more abundant life here and hereafter.
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." John 5:24
Never has a word and its true meaning been more misrepresented and abused in the last few decades than the word "love." Many acts of lust and ventures of greed are committed in the name of love. Multitudes have tried to cover their guilty consciences by performing justifying deeds of "love." It is reassuring to know in confusing times that the Bible still has all the answers, and its definition of love remains unchanged. "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation (payment) for our sins." (I John 4:10)
According to God's Word, love demands a sacrifice from the giver. The more sacrificial the giving, the greater the love. The sacrifice of God's love for us was the giving of His Son to pay the price for our sin. The sacrifice of this true love was death. With a Holy God, the greatest gift of love for us required the greatest of sacrifices. Here is the good news of God's gift of love: John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."; Romans 5:8, "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
If you have been searching for true love, won't you consider the true God and His great gift of love for you-salvation from sin and an eternal home in heaven. This gift cost God much to give, it costs you nothing to receive.
Perhaps the noblest of all virtues a person could possess would be to be the possessor of an honest tongue. What a different world this would be indeed if we could count 100 percent on the words of any man at any time in any situation. Unfortunately, no man in history, apart from the Lord Jesus Christ, could claim this finest of qualities. Little white lies, as they are called, are now considered a way of life. They are used to cover up secret sins, to manipulate unsuspecting people, to deceive others, or simply as a hypocritical tool. The convenience of a swift and easy movement of the tongue to breeze through tight situations is too great a temptation to resist. Even little children are quick to learn the art. When caught in a wrongful act they can immediately conjure up the most incredible of imaginative stories.
Where did lying originate, and does God forgive liars?
The Bible tells us that lying was an invention of the Devil and this sin, along with all other sins, has become part of everyone's sinful nature. The Lord Jesus Christ, when speaking of the dastardly character of Satan, said "for he is a liar, and the father of it." (John 8:44) Later on the Bible tells us of the utter helplessness of controlling ourselves, "But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison." This is not to say that all men habitually practice lying, but it tells us that, certainly, no man has escaped the experience. David, the great King of Israel and even Peter, the Apostle, have their lies recorded in the Bible.
God understands the exact reasons why we lie, and although He is compassionate toward us, He cannot excuse the act. He judges all lies as sinful, no matter how small. Because of the Lord Jesus Christ, God is able to forgive us for this and all sin. No matter who you are or what you have done, God will forgive you if you trust His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, as your all sufficient Savior. How can I be sure I will be forgiven? The Bible says so and God cannot lie!
The Bible overflows with truth about mercy. Mercy is receiving pardon from the penalty of sin. It is provided for through the death, the burial, and the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ, as He mercifully took our place and paid the price for our sins. His mercy is spoken of as great, rich, and tender. This mercy, found in the Lord God of the Bible, springs forth out of His love and His goodness. It is an intrinsic part of His very being.
Many people miss the "Mercy of Christ" simply because they fail to recognize their need of it. Mercy, in its very meaning, presumes there is a guilty part. We need to acknowledge that we are that guilty party.
Why are we guilty? Because the Bible teaches us:
"For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God;" Romans 3:23.
"For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good and sinneth not." Ecclesiastes 7:20.
"As it is written, There is none righteous, no not one:" Romans 3:10.
When comparing oneself to the Holiness of the sinless Son of God, one has to admit his guiltiness before Him. In doing this it becomes apparent that we all are in need of Christ's mercy. To receive this mercy, we must recognize we are sinners (guilty party); repent of our sins (personal guilt); and receive, by faith, the Lord Jesus Christ.
"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us,..." Titus 3:5.
We, at First Bible Church, encourage you to pray a simple prayer of faith to the Lord Jesus Christ, asking Him to be "...merciful to me a sinner."
God bless you.
Abraham Lincoln said, "All that I am and ever hope to be I owe to my mother." One of the main ingredients that made America a great nation was God-fearing mothers. Let us examine seven Biblical characteristics of a God-fearing mother that are found in Proverbs 31.
Trustworthy: "The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, s o that he shall have no need of spoil."
Faithful: "She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life."
Industrious: "She worketh willingly with her hands."
Diligent: "She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night."
Charitable: "She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy."
Wise and Kind: "She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness."
Virtuous: "She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised."
What America needs today is God-fearing mothers with the above Biblical characteristics who will believe and teach their child their ABC's:
A-Admit that you are a sinner. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" (Romans 3:23).
B-Believe on the risen Lord Jesus Christ. "...Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;...he was buried, and...rose again the third day according to the scriptures:" (I Corinthians 15:3-4).
C-Call upon Him in repentance. "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." (Romans 10:13)
Under the Constitution of God the penalty for premeditated murder is capital punishment. At no time is provision made for a murderer to be imprisoned. The Law of Moses says, "Moreover ye shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which is guilty of death: but he shall be surely put to death." (Numbers 35:31)
Many people are under the false impression that because they have never killed anyone they will some day go to heaven. This is not true! The Bible teaches us that "All unrighteousness is sin:" (I John 5:17), and "the soul that sinneth, it shall die." (Ezekiel 18:4) You may have never committed murder, but if you have ever harbored hatred or resentment against anyone, you are as guilty as a murder in the eyes of God. The Bible says, "Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer:" (I John 3:15.). People will go to hell because of a unforgiving spirit as surely as a murderer will. The Bible teaches us that all sins come from the heart. The Lord Jesus said, "For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:" (Matthew 1:19). It is no wonder the Bible says, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?" (Jeremiah 17;9) Because we all have deceitful hearts, the Bible declares, "all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" (Romans 3:23).
The Lord Jesus Christ died on the cross and paid the death penalty for all of us. He rose again that we might have hope of eternal life. If you repent of your sins and by faith accept the Lord Jesus Christ you will be forgiven. To all of us, whether we are murderers or not, the resurrected Lord Jesus Christ is ready and willing to forgive.
The first and most basic institution of life is the family. Whenever there is a breakdown of the family, there will also follow the destruction of society. Today we are on the brink of global disaster, not only from external conflicts, but also because of the internal disruption of the home. Families are falling apart by the thousands every year all across America and the world. Married men are failing in their roles as husbands. Women are failing as wives. Fathers and mothers are failing in their responsibility as parents. No wonder we see so many of our children running away, committing suicide, turning to drug and alcohol abuse, and dropping out of school. The parents are failing and the children are retaliating. Improper parental guidance is the cause and children wandering off course is the result.
The Bible teaches us that children are to obey their parents. It tells us that children are also supposed to honor them. If God commands children to love, honor, and obey their parents, it stands to reason that the parents should show qualities that would warrant that kind of respect.
Our society tolerates and even applauds godless conduct and impure lifestyles. That disrespect for the Lord Jesus Christ and His Bible is taking its toll by causing misery and unhappiness among children and parents alike. There can not be honor earned by parents until parents first learn to honor the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Lord Jesus Christ has great concern for families, but He must first deal with you as an individual sinner. The Lord Jesus Christ is first and foremost desirous to forgive you and take away the sin bound in your heart before He can begin to deal with your family. You, as an individual sinner, must realize your sinful condition, repent of your sin, and trust Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. We, and First Bible Church, are praying for your soul and the soul of your family members.
Our hearts cannot help but ache over the sad condition of this man. He was more than just a misfit of society. His life was destroyed, his home was broken, his possessions were gone, and he was living a tortured life of agony and madness. In despair and utter hopelessness he would cry out night and day in pain. He was confused and sorrowful. The shackles of sin and the heavy burden of guilt had gripped his heart until sanity fled like a bird from the fowler. "Lost, Lost, all is Lost" was his cry.
You can be in a crowded room and still feel the loneliness that this man felt. You can have a smile on your face and carry a broken heart like his. You may be able to carry out all your responsibilities in life, yet feel as desperate and hopeless as this man in the mountains living among the tombs. Sin and the guilt it brings robs the heart of peace and joy. It separates us all from God and causes that constant cry within us, seeking for someone to help. Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27) The Bible says when this man, "saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him." He realized that Jesus Christ alone could forgive him and take away his sins. With the burden of his sin removed by the loving Savior, the loneliness, desperation, and hopelessness he experienced also vanished. Our prayer at First Bible Church is that you too will look to the Lord Jesus Christ and receive the same great deliverance from the burden and guilt of sin. Trust Him today to save you.
As the Lord Jesus Christ healed the sick, cleansed the lepers, gave sight to the blind and raised the dead, multitudes followed Him just to see the mighty works which He could do. All His miracles certainly demonstrated great and magnificent power. Yet, Jesus did not have to leave His throne in heaven to exercise these powers. Surely from His majestic seat in glory He could have done the same. When a man sick of the palsy was brought to Him for healing, before giving strength to the weakened body, Jesus looked on him and said, "...Son, thy sins be forgiven thee." This is the reason God became a man. This is the reason the Son of God walked among men; to forgive and take away sins. The Bible teaches this in I John 3:5; "And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin."
This is no ordinary man; no ordinary man, preacher, priest, or rabbi has the power to do what only God alone came down to do-to forgive and take away our sins. The power to forgive and take away sins cost God's Son much-His life. Hebrews 10:11-12 explains this truth: "And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;".
This is the heart of the gospel, and this gospel is the power of God unto salvation (forgiveness of sin and eternal life in heaven).
We at First Bible Church now ask you to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior.
"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:" I John 1:12
Think about the prayers you have offered to God in the last year. Weren't they a bit one-sided? You needed something from God. Didn't you? The reason why many of you are discouraged and disheartened is because you have not had your prayers answered. God loves you and is very interested in your prayers, but in his best condition, Man, is not able to stand nor speak before a Holy, Righteous God. We need a priest to speak for us! "But Christ being come an high priest...by his own blood...obtained eternal redemption for us." (Hebrews 9:11-12) In Verse 24 of the same chapter it says, "...Christ...now to appear in the presence of God fur us;". Christ is our only priest. Any other man will fail you, Jesus Christ will not. I Timothy 2:5 says, "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;".
The Word of God is very clear that God only hears one prayer from a person that is not born again..."God be merciful to me a sinner". This is the prayer of repentance and leads a person to salvation.
Once you have accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, you have become a Christian (born again), a member of the family of God, and now have the right, through Jesus Christ, your priest, to offer your prayers to God. The Lord God now hears them, and according to His perfect will desires to answer them. There is confidence and comfort in knowing God will hear your prayers. "Seeing then that we have a great high priest...Jesus the Son of God,...Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:14-16)
The most difficult three words to speak in any language are, "I was wrong." To admit we have been in error is damaging to our self-image and hurtful to our ego. Stubborn insistence and refusal to face the truth about ourselves (especially when we are wrong) is inherent in all of us in one degree or another. Excuse making is a way of life. The Word of God, like a mirror, reveals to anyone who would read it the absolute truth about ourselves and our society; it leaves no room for evading the truth by excuses. Our pride, therefore, makes it difficult to realign our preconceived ideas and thoughts when Bible truth confronts us.
Pride can be a deadly ruling force in directing our will. It is pride that keeps a man from admitting he is a sinner (the Bible says we all are); "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" (Romans 3:23). It is pride that keeps a man from repenting of his sins (The Bible says we must); "The Lord is...not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." (II Peter 3:9) It is pride that stops a man from trusting the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior from hell and condemnation because of those sins. "How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation;" (Hebrews 2:3).
Do not let a proud heart deceive you into thinking you are not a sinner, and therefore, not guilty before God. Do not let a proud heart keep you from accepting the Lord Jesus Christ as your only hope of salvation. Our prayer at First Bible Church is that you would, "receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls." (James 1:21)
At one time or another for over 5,000 years mankind has set its sights on heaven. There is an inherent fascination that we possess which drives us to search for the secrets of the "unknown." Some men in the past tried to build a mammoth tower called Babel, that they might reach Heaven's gate. Greek mythology is filled with legends of gods and humans soaring to Olympus and back. The Wright brothers risked life and limb to elevate their bodies into the air. Astronauts catapult beyond our earth's atmosphere, far into space to search for the secrets of the "unknown."
In the same light, man has also set his sights on finding the keys to the mystery of eternal life. Although the Bible has always revealed the answers to this "mystery," man continues to drive on down his own path. Religions were created to satisfy man's obsession with going any way but God's way. In ancient times religion included stone images and mystical gods on great mountains. Soon religion became more modernized and included exaltation of human priests, trusting tradition over the Bible, masochism as a means of over coming the flesh, penance as a bargaining tool, and even the buying of indulgences to secure eternal life. Today many of the same rituals are still taking place all over this land. Religion proclaims that being good will get you to God. Some religions teach that you must be baptized to get to God. Others declare that you must confess your sins to a priest and then receive communion to receive eternal life. Religion's ways to eternal life are many and various for this one reason-they were created by the imagination of man.
Don't let the subtle grip of religion keep you from knowing the truth about eternal life. All the above ways will lead to destruction because they do not come from God but from man's imagination. The Bible says, "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man." (Psalm 118:8) According to the Bible, eternal life comes freely by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior. You must come to Christ one way-as a sinner-and He will save you and give you eternal life. Won't you ring out this prayer, "God be merciful to me a sinner, and save me for the Lord Jesus' sake," and be saved today?
"And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is his son." I John 5:11
In our fast paced, high pressure society, the aggressive, hard working go-getter has a tremendous chance to gain much financial wealth. This zealous man can establish such a strong financial base that economic cares could be distant memories. Economic security-a common goal that drives men to expend countless hours of energy. Economic security-a common goal that when reached, can satisfy the immediate and short-ranged needs of this most demanding society.
The drive for wealth can fill the void of uselessness, dependency, and passivity. That drive for wealth can fill you life with luxuries, securities, new acquaintances, social prestige, and possibly, political power. The drive for wealth can fulfill your youthful dreams, your adolescent desires. Your drive to wealth may even make you rich, yes, richer than you could have ever imagined; but without Jesus Christ as your Savior, you will be one of the richest in hell! Wealth is fine, but it will not buy your eternal life!
"And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments,...and he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he many dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame." Luke 16:22-24
Being rich does not send a man to hell, just as being poor does not guarantee heaven. All men and women must call the same prayer, "God be merciful to me, a sinner." (Luke 18:13) Admitting your guilt of sin, repenting of that sin to the Lord Jesus Christ, then trusting in Him as your Savior is God's only way to eternal life. Remember, "Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth." (Colossians 3:2) Friend, hell will be filled with rich and poor alike who did not think of their eternal destiny. Be saved today and settle your destiny forever!
One of the Ten Commandments which God gave Israel was, "Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy." (Exodus 20:8) In giving to the Jewish people this particular commandment, the Lord God had three reasons.
In the New Testament there is a type of rest spoken of that is much greater than the physical rest of the Old Testament Sabbath. It may be referred to as inner spiritual rest. The Bible says it is the result of having "peace with God" (Romans 5:1), and it comes by receiving the peace of God within your heart. The Lord Jesus was referring to this type of rest when He said, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls." (Matthew 11:28-29)
Because the Bible describes sin as a burden bound upon a man’s back, there can be no rest for any soul that carries it. The terrible weight of sin, with its heavy load of guilt, can only be taken away by Jesus Christ Himself. When any person acknowledges the fact that he is a sinner, repents of his sin to God, and by faith trusts in the Lord Jesus Christ to save him, immediately, the burden of sin is lifted. Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled," (John 14:27). What a peaceful rest!
It is shameful the way some people have trampled underfoot the Salvation of God. Shameful, indeed, when considering the sorrow and grief our Lord endured in order that men could be saved. Shameful, indeed, when considering His constant beckoning today for lost sinners! Shameful indeed, when considering the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, who, though He was rich, yet for our sakes became poor, that we through his poverty might be rich. He "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." (Philippians 2:7,8) Shameful indeed that men accept Him as a good man, accept Him as a prophet, accept Him as a teacher sent from God, but reject Him as a Saviour. He came to SEEK and to SAVE that which was lost. He came not to condemn the world but that the world THROUGH HIM might be saved. The Bible says, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
Why do people put off the salvation of God? Why do men presume upon the longsuffering of God as if they could get saved whenever they wish? The Bible says, "now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." (2 Corinthians 6:2) Why do men reject the Saviour, Jesus Christ as if there were someone else to trust, or some other way to gain eternal life? The Bible says, "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12) and again, "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) Why do men continue to reject God's FREE gift of eternal life, as if they could EARN eternal life through their own efforts, good works, or obedience to religious laws? The Bible says, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
How about you? Will you also turn away from His salvation? The Savior, Jesus Christ suffered your shame and agony on the cross, like a common criminal, so that you would not have to be treated like a criminal in God's court of eternal justice! The Bible says, "For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh," (I Peter 3:18). He now holds out His nail-pierced hands, calling to sinners, "whosoever will may come!"
REMEMBER! "Now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." Friend, one day the beckoning voice of God will be quieted and your hope for eternal life will vanish. Do not put off a decision for salvation any longer. Admit your guilt, confess to God that you are a sinner, and trust the Savior, Jesus Christ, who was your substitute on the cross! Be saved today before it is eternally too late!
"Now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation."
Satan is very real, very alive, and very deadly. He destroys men by the millions. The fiery flames of hell are fueled with the souls of the deceived and the damned. Countless numbers are caught within the grasp of his jaws and ripped to shreds every day. In the arena of life, man is no match against so great an adversary. He drives men to murder, rape, and suicide. What many call psychosis today is often a central nervous system invaded by the devil. Lying, cheating, and stealing are the evidence of his early seductions as he relentlessly pecks away at the mind to erode resistance to his will.
So powerful is his sway upon mankind that Satan is called in the Bible, "the god of this world [who] hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." (2 Corinthians 4:4) So convincing are his lies that Satan has power to deceive the whole world - and has! Even the very religious of Jesus' day were unaware of his corrupting influence in their lives. When the Pharisees, a cult of orthodox Jews, taunted the Lord Jesus in John chapter eight, he said to them, "Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it." (John 8:44)
So devious are his religious deceptions that millions are convinced they are worshipping God when in fact they are worshipping a false god, a false Christ, and not the Lord's Christ. Jesus said in John 4:22, "Ye worship ye know not what…." So subtle are his ways, like those of a serpent, that he was able to enter into the Garden of Eden and seduce Adam's queen, the first woman, beguiling her through his subtlety, knowing she would cause Adam to sin and thus condemn the human race to destruction! But Jesus Christ came from heaven to redeem mankind from destruction. He came to pay the price for the sin of the world and to break Satan's power over the descendants of Adam.
So intense is his hatred for the Son of God, that Satan would rather see everything destroyed, even himself, than to let Jesus Christ receive honor and glory in Heaven. But Satan's destruction is as sure as the prophecies concerning it, nearly 3,000 years old! "Hell from beneath is moved for thee to meet thee at thy coming: it stirreth up the dead for thee, even all the chief ones of the earth; it hath raised up from their thrones all the kings of the nations…How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit. They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms; That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof; that opened not the house of his prisoners?" (Isaiah 14:9,12-17) Though he glories now in his power to cause such mayhem, he will suffer an unimaginable agony forever in the very hell that was created for him and his angels. "And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever." (Revelation 20:10)
But here is the most amazing thing about Satan. He is more of a believer than many who call themselves Christians. He KNOWS that only Jesus Christ can save men from sin. He KNOWS that there is no other way to be saved. He KNOWS that any man who trusts in religion or good works and not in Christ alone for salvation, will spend eternity in hell! So certain is he of these truths, that all his efforts are directed at keeping people from understanding that the Lord Jesus Christ is their only hope! He has lied so well that most of the world has believed his lies. "There are many ways to get to heaven," he says. "If there is a God, he would never send anyone to hell," he says. "There is no hell, hell is here on earth," he says. "Just do the best you can, and you'll be fine," he says. "The Bible was written by men. You can't trust it," he says. "You have plenty of time to think about your soul later," he says. It is Satan that makes you put off the decision to trust the Lord Jesus for the saving of your soul. DON’T BE DECEIVED; DON’T BE FOOLED; DON’T BE DAMNED. Jesus Christ conquered death and hell and won the victory over Satan on the cross of Calvary. The Bible tells us, "For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil." (I John 3:8)
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
While many scientific facts are not recorded in the Bible at all, true science is never in contradiction to the Holy Word of God. Science that opposes the truth of Scripture is a "science falsely so called" (1 Timothy 6:20) and until very recently most scientists were at least 500 to 1000 years behind the Bible!
On the Science of Meteorology
Although meteorology is a relatively new field of science, the "water cycle" (evaporation and precipitation) is strikingly explained in the book of Ecclesiastes (written 3,000 years ago). "All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full unto the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return again." (Ecclesiastes 1:7)
Solomon described a similar "cycle" of air currents two thousand years before scientists "discovered" them. "The wind goeth toward the south, and turneth about unto the north; it whirleth about continually, and the wind returneth again according to his circuits." (Ecclesiastes 1:6)
On the Science of Biology
The great truth concerning the importance of blood in our body’s mechanism has only been fully comprehended within recent years. Yet, Leviticus 17:11 says, "For the life of the flesh is in the blood."
During the Dark Ages in Europe, the Black Plague killed millions of people. It was caused primarily by the unsanitary conditions in medieval towns. The Jews however suffered very few casualties (and were blamed for the plague because of it). The truth was that in addition to their Biblical dietary laws there were the laws of cleansing written in Leviticus. "And when he that hath an issue is cleansed of his issue; then he shall number to himself seven days for his cleansing, and wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in running water, and shall be clean." (Lev. 15:13). It wasn't until the 19th century that surgeons learned the importance of cleansing germs in "running water" instead of washing their hands in a basin.
On the Science of Philosophy
Of the twenty or more major philosophies upon which culture, action, and thought are based in this present world (such as: Epicureanism, Hedonism, Socialism, Stoicism, Capitalism, Materialism, Existentialism, etc.), every one of them is contained and explained in the twenty-first book of the Bible—Ecclesiastes!
It is important to point out here, that in spite of all the scientific truths revealed within the pages of God’s Word, the Bible deals much more with man’s heart than with his head. Your mind can easily perceive the facts of God’s existence and the infallibility of His Word. It is your heart that should recognize our Lord’s concern and love for a lost and self-centered creation—man. "My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways." (Proverbs 23:26) "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." (Romans 10:9-10)
Jesus Christ paid the price, death on the cross, for your sin. He then arose from the grave that you might have eternal life. If you will admit today that you are a sinner and accept by faith, in your heart, that Jesus Christ took your place and died for you, you can be saved. "For he hath made him (Jesus) to be sin for us, who knew no sin: that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." (II Corinthians 5:21) Won’t you give your heart to God today? "Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts," (Hebrews 3:15).
Today, many people in our society are constantly looking for an easy way through life and its problems. Our Lord Jesus Christ was confronted with His own death as the solution for the salvation of men and women from hell. He chose not an easy way, but, the difficult, shameful path. The Bible ways that He, "for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame,".
It is written, "Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:" (Galatians 3:13). Hanging as a cursed man on the cross, the Lord Jesus Christ endured all the shame for the salvation of your soul. The Bible says in Isaiah 50:6, "I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting." The Lord Jesus was "despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth:" (Isaiah 53:3,5,7). This shame, this reproach, affliction, sorrow, grief, rejection, oppression, chastisement, and bruising, the Creator of the Universe, the Lord Jesus Christ, took willingly and joyfully that you and I might be saved from hell. It was the price that we had to pay, because of our sin; but the Creator took our place on the cross, that we might have life through Him!
How dare any one substitute any other way to heaven. The Bible says, "the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:23) Only God's free gift to man-salvation by faith in the loving Savior Jesus Christ-can give you eternal life! It was the price He paid once. It is a decision you must make right now! Oh friend, "consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself," for you!
Everyone is aware of the gentleness and harmlessness of sheep. We are all familiar with the wool sweaters and blankets they provide. But it is "getting lost" which is their most remarkable characteristic. They wander aimlessly about having absolutely no ability to find their way back home.
The Bible tells us in Isaiah 53:6, "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way;...". We, like sheep, have wandered away from our Creator. Our sins have left us lost, separated from God, without hope, and unable to return. Just as any good shepherd looks lovingly for his wandering sheep until he finds them, the Lord Jesus Christ said He came, "...to seek and to save that which was lost." (Luke 19:19)
The price to regain lost sheep (held captive in sin by Satan) was the willing sacrificial death of the Good Shepherd. Jesus said, "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep." (John 10:11) This is the reason Jesus Christ, God Almighty, came into the world made in the likeness of men, to give His life a ransom for all. Hebrews 2:14-15 tell us, "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage."
By His death on the cross of Calvary the Lord Jesus rescued us from the clutches of Satan, forgave our sin and then conquered death by His resurrection. To them that trust in Him He promises, "...because I live, ye shall live also." (John 14:19)
The only way to salvation and rest from the clutches of sin is to obey the voice of the Good Shepherd, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28) If you are as a sheep going astray, heavy laden with your own sins, you can be saved today; trusting in the Good shepherd and His promise of life and rest.
There is a tremendous misconception in the hearts and minds of millions of people concerning the simple three-letter word SIN. Most people think SINS come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. They assume that the gray ones are unrecognizable. This sad misunderstanding has fooled multitudes into believing certain SINS are harmless, unimportant or even justifiable.
The Bible warns us in I John 5:17 that, "All unrighteousness is sin:". It teaches us that SIN is not limited to action only, but also to any neglect of duty, any evil thought, ill purpose, idle word or wrongful desire.
SIN is not measured by man's flexible standards, but according to the Holy perfection of God. Whether great or small, mortal or venial, all SINS are committed directly against the character and integrity of our divine, righteous God. Regardless of what certain religions teach, all sin is punished by death. In Romans 6:23 it says, "the wages of sin is death;". The Bible also teaches in Ezekiel 18:4 that, "...the soul that sinneth, it shall die."
According to God's Word SIN is never dismissed, it is never excused. No matter how small or seemingly insignificant, SIN is SIN. No SIN goes unnoticed. No SIN remains "secret." No SIN escapes the holy eye of God. We are told in Proverbs 15:3, "The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good."
No SIN can be committed without consequences. No SIN will remain unpunished. No one can get away with SIN. Numbers 32:23 says, "...be sure your sin will find you out."
It is time to straighten out your misconception of SIN. It is time your realize its seriousness in the sight of God. It is time to look to the Lord Jesus Christ, God's only remedy for SIN, so that you may be forgiven, escape death, and receive eternal life. The Bible teaches us in I Timothy 1:15 that, "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners;" and again in Romans 5:8 it says, "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
If you will pray this simple prayer, "God be merciful to me a sinner.", and accept by faith the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior, you will be saved.
"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." Romans 10:9
"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23
A sober-minded man is a man who possesses a well-balanced personality. He is a person who can maintain his equilibrium under varying tensions and strains. A sober-minded man is one who does not charge ahead impulsively or stagger around aimlessly. He is a man with a purpose and a goal.
A sober-minded man is a rational and objective thinker. He does not live his life in a prejudiced state but proves all things, reasoning logically and honestly. A sober-minded man does not dismiss the Bible as a mere work of men, but reads it through to consider if it is what it claims to be-the true Word of God. A sober-minded man will not carelessly believe that all religions lead to heaven, but will earnestly evaluate the Words of Christ who said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6) A sober-minded man does not stubbornly try to work his own way to heaven when the Bible says salvation is a free gift given to us by God through the Lord Jesus Christ. A sober-minded man refuses to be fooled or deceived when it comes to matters of eternal proportions, but prays to Christ for forgiveness of sin and trusts in Him as his only hope of everlasting life. A sober-minded man does not procrastinate when decisions need to be made, but acts immediately.
To the sober-minded man the Bible says, "come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Isaiah 1:16) "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." (Romans 10:13)
When the Lord Jesus Christ hung on the cross of Calvary we are told in the Bible, "Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left." (Matthew 27:38) At first, both of these thieves began mocking Christ, but not long after, one thief had a change of mind. This thief, as he hung there condemned, realized that this One next to him was not a sinner at all but the very Son of God. The Gospel of Luke records for us this account: "And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise." (Luke 23:39-43)
It is true that not all people are guilty of the wrongful taking of money or property from others, but that is not the only kind of theft. There is also theft of non-material things. For instance, we are guilty of theft when we take credit for accomplishments that are not really ours. We are guilty of theft when we don't give to God the glory and honor due to Him. The Bible says, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23) When we sin in any way we steal from God the purity and holiness He desires in His Universe.
The important teaching we find in the above Bible account is that God forgives sinners if they will only admit their guilt and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ to save them. The Bible says, "Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:" (I Corinthians 15:3-4). The dying thief received eternal life from the Lord Jesus Christ. God will do the same for you right now! If you will humble your heart to God and turn to the Lord Jesus Christ for forgiveness, you too will be saved from condemnation and receive a home in heaven.
In the autumn of 1621, Massachusetts Bay Governor William Bradford invited some neighboring Indians for a three-day festival in gratitude for the bounty of the season. Since that time, Americans have been annually setting aside a day of Thanksgiving. It is at this time that we pause, with our loved ones, and reflect on the previous year, and count our blessings. We are thankful for our health, our financial security, our families-but oh, how we need to pause and behold what God has done for us in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ.
"Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." John 1:29
"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
"Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:" I Corinthians 15:3-4
God, in His love and mercy, saw us lost in our sin. The end result of sin is eternal separation from the life and love of God. The Lord Jesus Christ lived a holy and perfect life for us and then became our substitutionary Lamb dying in our stead. On the third day, He rose from the grave showing his triumphant victory over death. He now stands at your heart's door waiting for a personal invitation to enter. Will you repent of your sin and trust the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior? If so, you will be able to have the greatest Thanksgiving of all as you come to a full realization that "God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
May you and your family have a blessed Thanksgiving and may our "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift." (II Corinthians 9:15)
Philosophers have explained space, but they have not been able to explain time. Time is the inexplicable raw material of everything. With it all is possible, without it nothing is possible. The supply of time is truly a daily miracle, an affair genuinely astonishing when one examines it. You wake up in the morning; and lo, your purse is filled with twenty-four hours of the unmanufactured tissue of the universe of your life. It is yours! It is the most precious of possessions. As with most precious commodities, time is in limited supply. The Bible says, "...the time is short:...for the fashion of this world passeth away." (I Corinthians 7:29, 31) The Bible tells us that our life is a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away (James 4:14). God, in His goodness, has given man time in which to prepare for eternity. In light of the fact that God is Holy, man must do something about his sin. Romans 3:23 tells us that, "all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;". We are all in a dilemma; what can we do with our sin? The Bible, God's Holy Word, has the solution! We must repent of our sin and put our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ who died on the cross for our sins and rose again the third day (I Corinthians 15:1-4). If we do not repent of our sin and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, the Bible says the wrath of God will abide on us forever. "He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him." (John 3:36) One day time will be no more (Revelation 10:6) and you will stand before Almighty God. Romans 14:12 says, "So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God."
Are you ready to face a Holy God? Have you received God's payment for your sin-the Lord Jesus Christ? Are you saved? II Corinthians 6:2 says, "...behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." Will you make today our day of salvation?
One day the Lord Jesus stood before a group of religious men. These men had been waiting for their Messiah to come, but were so caught up and swept away with their religious rituals and man-made traditions that when the very Creator of the Universe stood before them as their Lord and King, they rejected Him. Because of their rejection, Jesus spoke these sad words of death, not only to them, but to any man that may be led by tradition rather than God's Word
"This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered:" Mark 7:6-9, 13.
Consider your present condition. Do you attend a church or belong to a religion that tries to mystify your and hand you rules to live by, creeds to memorize, or rituals to perform? Then consider this: the same Lord and King, who stood before the religious leaders, stand before you through the miracle of the written Word of God. He offers you eternal life, not by creeds, rituals or good works, but by faith in Him as your savior. His Words are your assurance, no the words of the clergy. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6)
Jesus Christ said, "The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life." (John 6:63) Won't you be saved today?
Every one of us has, at some time or another, been lied to, mistreated, or just plain swindled. It is nearly impossible to get through an average day without being on the defensive against those who are out to deceive us. For this reason, we have all been taught early in life not to talk to strangers. The common expression is, "You just can't trust anyone these days!" While this statement may be true among men today, it is not true of the Word of God. The Bible says, "As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all that trust in him." (II Samuel 22:31)
The Bible is our absolute authority and trustworthy guide in all matters of faith and practice. With full confidence we can put our trust in God and wholly depend upon His Word. The Bible encourages us when it says, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." (Proverbs 3:5)
When we trust in God we are not gambling with uncertain fate or taking some chance or risk. God's Word is, "an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast," (Hebrews 6:19). The Bible says, "It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man." (Psalm 118:8) God has given us His perfect Word as a written record of pure and holy truth. "And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life." (I John 5:11-12)
According to the Word of God, if you have never received the Lord Jesus Christ into your heart as your own personal Savior, you do not have eternal life. Without eternal life you are doomed to spend eternity in hell. The Bible declares-"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:23) You may be asking yourself this question, "What must I do to be saved from the damnation of hell and receive this eternal life?" You must repent of your sin and trust the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior.
Modern society is being presented with a colorful, aromatic picture of truth in a carefully swaddled bouquet of religion. The cry beckons from the hearts of millions: What is truth? Men scamper and scramble to answer this question with sorted philosophies and religious extravaganzas. Yet people are still searching for truth!
The answer to the people today is the same answer the Lord Jesus supplied one chapter earlier in John 17:17. Jesus said, "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." Even earlier He said, "...I am the way, the truth and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6)
First Bible Church considers it a great honor indeed to be able to present truth to people. TRUTH is the Lord Jesus Christ as He is revealed in His TRUE Word. It is not found by following church tradition, ritual, or men's philosophy. Truth is found in a person, and First Bible Church believes that thousands of people in this world need this Person, the Lord Jesus, as their Savior.
If you have never been saved from sin according to the Word of God, we invite you to embrace this promise. I Timothy 1:15, "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners;...".
Water is the only substance necessary to all life; many organisms can live without oxygen, but none can live without water. Man is not exempt from this rule; he can not live with out water.
In Jeremiah 2:13 the LORD says, "...they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters,". Friend, the reason you have no peace, no joy, and no satisfaction is because you are spiritually dying of thirst. Your soul is thirsting for God, for good works, sacraments, and prayers; but all to no avail. You still sit there with parched tongue thirsting for God. Why not open up the pages of God's Holy Word-the Bible-and drink at the fountain of living waters. The Bible says that you are in this condition of thirst because your sin has separated you from God. Isaiah 59:2 says, "But your iniquities have separated between you and your God,". To receive everlasting life, which is the spiritual thirst quencher of the soul, you must come God's way-the Bible way. The Lord Jesus Christ came and lived a sinless life for you, died on the cross and paid your penalty for sin, was buried and rose again the third day. He alone is the fountain of living water. The Lord Jesus Christ said in John 7:37, "...If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink." Friend, won't you right now consider your condition of dehydration before it is too late? Repent of your sin, and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as your all-sufficient Savior. The Lord Jesus Christ said in Revelation 21:6, "...It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely." Again in Revelation 22:17 He said, "...let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely." Will you come and quench your insatiable thirst and drink of the water of life freely?
Regardless of man's egocentric attempt to place his own origin in the hands of mere chance-evolution, God's own will in the creation of mankind remains unchanged and unchallenged. God created Adam in His image, according to His own likeness, by His very breath of Life, to worship and glorify Him. While God is Holy, He also is altogether loving. He gave Man a free will-to choose to worship and glorify Him as Creator or to go his own separate way. Upon Adam's first major exercise of this free will, he chose to sin and to go his separate, disobedient way. This meant death for the human race. "Wherefore, as by one man (Adam) sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:" (Romans 5:12).
In spite of Adam's disobedience, God's love remained ever present, ever near. The Son of God came to lay down His life for us according to the will of His heavenly Father that we might have life through His death. "For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one (Jesus Christ) shall many be made righteous." (Romans 5:19)
God's will is apparent; His love is far reaching. II Peter 3:9 says, "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering toward us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."
Now your will comes into focus. It is your choice! If you will admit that you are a sinner, repent of your sinful condition, and trust the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior, you will be saved today! Sinners being saved glorifies God. Whosoever will may come!
"Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:" Isaiah 1:18-19
Although the Bible-believing Christian throughout the ages has been a much maligned, much persecuted, much belittled figure, one startling statement has always been true concerning him-God has been for him and none have been able to successfully stand against him! The true Christian's statement of faith has always been: "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us." (Romans 8:35, 37)
Christians have been burned at the stake during inquisitions, tortured for believing in God's Word, and excommunicated for accepting salvation by faith alone (not by works or sacraments); yet, "in all these things" Christians have always been "more than conquerors."
Eternal life comes from the victorious resurrection of Jesus Christ from the grave! Its very foundation springs forth from victory! "Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead, dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him." (Romans 6:9)
Bible Christianity has been cast as a "negative religion;" nothing can be further from the truth. Bible-believing Christians have been called "smug," always "so sure of themselves." This so-called "smugness" has been misinterpreted for confidence. This confidence comes from the assurance that nothing can separate the born-again Christian from God's love. "For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38) This confidence can be yours today. Salvation is a free gift. In it contains one negative aspect-you must admit that you are a sinner. Next believe that God is merciful enough to save you. Trust by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior and you too can be on the winning side! Rejection of this salvation is defeat-an eternity in hell. Choose victory today!
"How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation." Hebrews 2:3
Wisdom, by definition, is the proper application of knowledge. It is the ability to utilize facts in a practical and profitable fashion.
We know that wisdom was the foundational architecture which God used in creation, for the Bible says in Jeremiah 10:12, "He hath made the earth by his power, he hath established the world by his wisdom, and hath stretched out the heavens by his discretion."
God's very own opinion of the high value to be placed on wisdom is expressed for us in Proverbs 3:13-18, "Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her."
Where can wisdom be found? The simple answer is from the Lord God Himself. Proverbs 2:6 says, "For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding."
The Word of God, the Holy Scriptures, is wonderfully designed to give us the most important wisdom of all-the knowledge that we are sinners and the way to be saved. Romans 3:23 says, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"
II Timothy 3:15 says it plainly, "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."
God's greatest wisdom is found in the "simplicity of the Cross of His Son." By wisely placing simple HEART faith in the death, the burial, and the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ as a substitute for your sins, you can and will be saved today.
Many a man has made the sad and fatal statement that the Bible is not true, because it was written by men. Sad indeed is this statement, for no other book could survive the storms and tempests of time as God's Book has. The reason for its success is because the Bible is in truth, "the word of our God." It is His revelation of life. God's Word is a treasure chest filled with: light for the darkness, direction for the lost, and life for the dead. No other book can claim these treasures.
The universe was formed by His Word. "Through faith we understand the worlds were framed by the word of God." (Hebrews 11:3) Yet, not only is the power of God's Word shown in the creation of the universe, but also in the lives of men and women. "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word." (Psalm 119:9)
For Comfort: "This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me." Psalm 119:50
In Stress: "My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according to thy word." Psalm 119:28
In Confusing Times: "The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple." Psalm 119:130
For Direction: "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." Psalm 119:11
For Eternal Life: "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." Romans 10:9
Take heed to the very words of God, call out this simple prayer, "God be merciful to me a sinner and save me for the Lord Jesus' sake," and all the treasures of God's Word and eternal life can be yours! You have His Word on it!
"Thy Word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever." Psalm 119:160
In spite of fruitless attempts down through the ages to disprove or even discredit the Bible, the old Book (The Word of God) has weathered the storms and remains a glorious beacon of undimmable illumination. Religion can try to supersede it with tradition. Thieves, dressed in religious garb, can try to extract its power and replace it with watered-down interpretations and superstitious rituals. Men can try to hide the Bible; pitch it in the corner; or even let it lay on the living room coffee table to be untouched for countless years. Yet, that old Book-the Word of God-will still remain intact, truthful, pure, full of power, with words that can save the souls of men and women. Look with us at the power and purpose of the Holy Scriptures. "Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever...the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you." (I Peter 1:23, 25)
God's concern for you is that you might be saved from hell. His truthful, pure, powerful Word makes this concern very clear. "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, (that is you!) but that all should come to repentance." (I Peter 3:9) "Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else." (Isaiah 45:22)
Not only is God concerned about your eternal destiny, but He is also willing to forgive you of your sin. Isaiah 43:25 says of our Lord, "I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins."
Where will you spend eternity, in heaven or hell? Jesus Christ died that you might be saved. God gave you His Word that you might be saved. You have been shown His Word that you might be saved. Repent of your sin to God, ask Him for mercy and forgiveness, and then trust in the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and you will be saved today, for sure! You have His Word on it!
This world is terminally ill. It is not getting better; it is not improving. You may see now and then what might appear to be small rays of hope, but these tiny sparks of light fly off to nowhere and burn out quickly. When they are gone, the suffering, hunger, sickness, and pain of this present world lingers on.
But it shall not be like this forever. The Bible teaches that there will be a great day when God will destroy this world and all its evils. The Lord Jesus promises to make a new earth with no more suffering and no more pain. The Bible tells us He will make, "a new heaven and a new earth" (Revelation 21:1). And in it shall be peace and tranquillity, joy and happiness. The Word of God says, "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away." (Revelation 21:4)
Are you ready for this great day? Are you waiting for the moment when, God will say, "Behold, I make all things new." (Revelation 21:5)
The Bible tells us that only those who have trusted the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior will enjoy this future bliss. Christ died on the cross for our sins and if you ask Him to, He will forgive you of your sins, take them away, and you will receive His gift of eternal life. With eternal life as your possession, you have God's Word that you will be with Him forever in His soon-coming heavenly kingdom.
Many times in the Bible, the Lord God likens men to animals. Some men He calls sheep because of their meekness. Some He calls goats because of their stubbornness. In the above passage of the Scripture, He likens some men to wolves because of their deceptive and destructive nature. The Lord Jesus Himself, warns us again in Matthew 7:15, "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."
The Lord Jesus has never hid His love for truth nor His disdain for anything else but truth. He said of Himself, "I am the way, the truth, and the life:". His displeasure for those who preach, teach, or speak anything but the truth is equally as apparent-He likens them to wolves. The wolf is notoriously a destructive, carnivorous animal that is extremely dangerous to any flock. Put all of this together and you will begin to see your Lord's concern with false prophets and their devastating words and deeds.
Matthew 24:4, 24 say, "...Take heed that no man deceive you. For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders;". The Bible mentions in II Peter 2:1-2, "...even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies,...And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of." What is the way of truth that false prophets and wolves speak evil of?
Beware of wolves, for they teach the way of error-religion, church tradition, ritual, baptism, confirmation, communion, or good works will not give you eternal life! First Bible Church warns people to beware of any man that teaches these heresies and does not speak the way of truth! Salvation and eternal life come only by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Matthew 10:16-17 say, "Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. But beware of men:"!
God's most wonderful creation is you. Every part of your body is a testimony to the infinite wisdom and skill of the One who created it. We can truly say with the psalmist, "I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made..." (Psalm 139:14). Look with us at our human body, for it is truly a combination of many marvels.
God made your human ear somewhat like a grand piano except that it is a million times smaller and has a hundred times as many "strings." These nerves enable your ear to distinguish between thousands of sounds. How tiny is the hearing mechanism, and yet, how perfect!
God made your human eye so that it is more remarkable than any elaborate camera ever made. It has truly been called, "the wonder of wonders."
God made your heart so that it could beat 100,000 times a day and work a lifetime without requiring replacement. It is truly a machine designed supernaturally!
God made your brain so that it could do what multiple tons of complicated computers cannot do. Your human brain contains more nerve lines than all the telephone lines of the world put together, and yet, it weights less than 3 pounds.
God made you with a free will, which makes you, therefore, responsible for your choices in life. You are "wonderfully made" so that you might recognize and choose to worship the Creator and Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Choose the Savior, ask Him for mercy, as a sinner, and claim this verse as your only means of salvation. The Bible says, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him (Jesus Christ) from the dead, thou shalt be saved." (Romans 10:9) Your choice to be saved guarantees you eternal life in Heaven; willfully refusing this free gift of God brings you damnation in hell. Choose the Savior today!
The Bible teaches us that every man and woman on earth suffers from the sickness of an evil heart. We are all born in this horrible condition, and because of it we do things that we know are wrong. Many of us lie, cheat, and steal when we would rather not. Some of us become angry, fierce, and even violent only to soon regret it. Others of us are greedy, inconsiderate, and unfriendly when we wish we were the opposite. The pain of doing things we really do not want to do often leaves us guilty and sorrowful. The Word of God says it is our heart that causes us to sin. It is, "deceitful above all things and desperately wicked." (Jeremiah 17:9) The Lord Jesus Christ understood our sad condition when He said, "For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, and evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: all these things come from within, and defile the man." (Mark 7:21-23) Just as those who suffer from physical ailments of the body need to go to a physician, the Bible tells us that the entire human race, infested with bad spiritual hearts, must turn to the Lord Jesus Christ.
It makes no difference who you are or what you have done, God promises that all who call upon Jesus Christ for forgiveness of sin shall receive pardon and cleansing of heart. Christ died on the cross of Calvary to pay the price of our sin. Now, by trusting Christ as your Savior, He will create in you a new heart. The Bible declares this great and faithful promise, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." (Romans 10:9-10) Will you pray this prayer, "Lord Jesus, I know my heart is sinful; please forgive me and save me."?
The most valuable item you possess is not your home, car, or bank book. Your most valuable possession is your soul. The Bible tells us in Genesis 2:7, "And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul." To become the richest man in all the world would be of no profit if you would, in the process, lose your soul. The Lord Jesus warns us, "a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth." (Luke 12:15) When your life is over, your possessions will be left behind. Your body will go to the grave. But your soul shall pass on into Eternity.
The Bible tells us of a man who did not make proper provision for his soul. He was planning only for this life. He was very successful. His prosperity forced him to expand his properties and warehouses. The man said to himself, "Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink and be merry." (Luke 12:19) But as he lay one night upon his bed the voice of God said to him, "Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee:" (Luke 12:20).
A man or woman is a fool, if, in the process of living this short life, he or she does not make provision for eternity. The Bible teaches that you are a sinner and because of your sin your soul is bound for hell. God warns, "the soul that sinneth, it shall die." (Ezekiel 18:4) The reason Christ left heaven and came to earth was to save our soul from eternal damnation. Christ died on the cross to deliver our soul from hell. We are taught in the Word of God that the Lord Jesus, though perfect, spotless, and sinless, died in our place for us. The Bible says that, "he by the grace of God should taste death for every man." (Hebrews 2:9) "For God sent not his son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved." (John 3:17)
God loves you and wants you to spend eternity with Him in heaven. He does not want you to go to hell. But, unless you repent of your sin and believe on His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, that is exactly where you will go! Only Christ can forgive you, cleanse your soul from sin, and bring you safely inside the gates of heaven, forever in the presence of God.
