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The Lord Is Near (Psalm 34:18-19) Mike Johnson According to its title, David wrote Psalm 34 when he was experiencing much affliction. He was fleeing from King Saul and went to Gath where, to protect his life, he faked insanity. Leaving there, he fled to the cave of Adullam (1 Sam. 22:1). While experiencing such […]
Boasting in the Lord Mike Johnson (Psalm 34:2) David probably wrote Psalm 34 during the time he was fleeing from King Saul. During this time, he was facing great adversity. Yet, despite this, he declares in verse 2, “My soul shall make its boast in the Lord; the humble shall hear of it […]
That Preacher Offended Me! Harry Osborne What would you think of a preacher whose sermons offended people and were taken as insulting by the hearers? What if a preacher caused the audience to be filled with anger because of the hard things he said? What if he went so far as to mock false beliefs? […]
WHY I PRAY Warren Berkley I pray because I believe God listens. “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14). I pray because God has told me that He cares and is able to help. “Casting all your care upon Him, […]
Gather Around Me Children (Psalm 34:11-14) Mike Johnson According to its title, David wrote Psalm 34 during the time he was fleeing from Saul. He sought refuge in Gath and, to protect himself, faked insanity. Eventually, he left there and went to the cave of Adullam, where his family and 400 loyalists joined him (1 […]
The Sinner’s Prayer Mike Johnson Many say the only thing needed to obtain salvation is to pray a simple prayer known as a sinner’s prayer. There are variations, but typically, this is a short prayer where people express their need for salvation, asking Jesus to come into their hearts. They confirm their belief that Jesus […]
Magnify & Exalt God (Psalm 34) Mike Johnson Our study is from Psalm 34. The title comes from verse 3, which says, “Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together.” We are to magnify and exalt the name of God, and this psalm tells us how and why we should […]
The Thief on the Cross Mike Johnson The Bible teaches that baptism is for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38), washes away sins (Acts 22:16), saves (1 Pet. 3:21, Mk. 16:16), and puts people into Christ (Rom. 6:3, Gal. 3:27). After listening to this teaching, some may ask, “What about the thief on the cross?” […]
How Jesus Faced Temptation Mike Johnson Christians often face temptations, and new Christians are especially vulnerable to the “schemes” of the devil (Eph. 6:17). The Bible describes Satan in John 8:44, saying, “. . . He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in […]
Jesus: Intolerant, Confrontational, and Exclusionary Dan Gatlin The typical denominational view of both Father and Son is that “God is love,” and only love. What is so easily forgotten is His severity (Romans 11:22) and wrath (II Thessalonians 1:3-10). Jesus is depicted as quiet, soft-spoken, harmless, almost a wimp (nothing could be further from the […]
ARE YOU RICH? They huddled inside the storm door . . . two children in ragged, outgrown coats. “Any old papers, lady?” I was busy, I wanted to say no . . . until I looked down at their feet . . . their little sandals sopped with sleet. “Come in, and I’ll make you […]
HOW JOSEPH RESISTED TEMPTATION Dan Richardson Temptation is something we all have in common. Scripture admonishes young people to “flee youthful lusts…” (2 Timothy 2:22), but young and old alike need to consider the temptations they face. How we respond to it is extremely important to our welfare and happiness in life, but also eternally […]
Beware of Satan’s Counterfeits! E.R. Hall, Jr. The Devil uses every means available to bewitch and deceive people. He has imitated everything pertaining to God and has been quite effective at passing around the counterfeit as being the real thing. The degree of his effectiveness can be seen in that there are many people who […]
Friendship Carl Witty Jesus was a master at friendship. He did not condescend to His disciples; He called them friends. In John 15:11-15 Jesus spoke to His friends, the twelve disciples, and revealed the basis of their (and our) friendship with Him: “… Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life […]
How the Holy Spirit Converts Mark White Conversion to Christ involves the work of the Holy Spirit. Of this we have much scriptural testimony. In fact, the Holy Spirit is essential to conversion. Hardly anyone would deny this. However, there is much dispute over the way in which the Holy Spirit assists in the conversion […]
Was Jesus a Vegetarian? Did Jesus Eat Meat? Jeffrey W. Hamilton On March 17, 1999, the Omaha World Herald reprinted a hilarious article by Bill Broadway of the Washington Post. It seems the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) have launched a campaign to claim that Jesus was a vegetarian. Billboards stating “Jesus […]
You May be Surprised to Learn . . . Doy Moyer Have you ever taken for granted certain things and believed them, just because that is what you have been told? Perhaps you find yourself in that situation now, believing and doing things because that is what you were told. Religious people sometimes believe and […]
The Lamb’s Book of Life Bobby L. Graham This register or list of the saved, thus designated because of the sacrifice of the Lamb making it possible and the life secured thereby (2 Timothy 1:10; John 14:6; 2 Peter 1:19), comprehends all redeemed from all covenants, because the sacrifice of Jesus Christ was designed to effect […]
Distinctive Preaching W. Curtis Porter I cannot conceive of their having ever been a time in all of the history of the church that distinctive preaching was not needed. Perhaps there have been periods of that history in which such preaching was more sorely needed than at other times; but if so, the failure of […]
The Need for Distinctive Preaching Jim Deason The role of the teacher is to hold back nothing profitable, but to teach the whole purpose of God (Acts 20:20, 27). That is the key to faithfully fulfilling the work of an elder or evangelist, i.e., that we hold back nothing that is profitable to the people. Preaching on the love of […]
God’s Everlasting Mercy (Psalm 118) Mike Johnson “Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” This verse is from Psalm 118:1. It also appears at the end and serves as part of a “bookend” for the Psalm. Between these two verses, we find illustrated the everlasting mercy (love […]
Simon the Sorcerer W. Curtis Porter A number of “Simons” are mentioned in the New Testament. There was Simon, whose surname was Peter, also called Cephas, who was one of the twelve apostles of the Lord. In the list of apostles, there is also Simon the Canaanite, or Simon the Zealot, as he is also […]
Differences in Bible Miracles & Modern Miracles Hiram Hutto While Jesus was on earth he made some very startling claims. He claimed to be divine, and the Jews so understood him (Jn. 5:18; 10:33). He claimed to be the Son of God (Jn. 10:35-37). He claimed to be the Messiah (Jn. 4:25-26) and the […]
Waiting For the Lord (Psalm 27) Mike Johnson “Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord!” (Ps. 27:14) This verse tells us about the focus of Psalm 27, which is a psalm that describes the author’s undaunting faith. The heading in my Bible […]
TRUSTING GOD (Psalm 31) Mike Johnson Psalm 31 is different from most psalms in that it consists of multiple peaks and valleys. The psalm changes in mood as it goes from assurance (1-8) to anguish (9-18), and then back to assurance (19-24). It has in verse 5, the last words Christ uttered on the cross, […]
Seek and Ye Shall Find Barney L. Keith “Many false prophets have gone out into the world” (1 Jn. 4:1, 2). One should not be blinded to the existence of error but should seek TRUTH. Jesus promised, “The truth will make you free” (Jn. 8:32). Truth is the only antidote for error. This truth is […]
The Burial of Jesus Walton Weaver The Hebrew custom of providing a burial place for the dead is first introduced in Scripture with Abraham’s purchase of a cave in the land of Canaan for the burial of Sarah (Gen. 23:1ff.). Although Joseph was first embalmed and put in a “coffin” in Egypt (Gen. 50:26), because […]
“What If” You Were the Last Remaining Christian? Greg Gwin A tired and discouraged Elijah proclaimed to God, “I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life to take it away” (1 Kings 19:10). He was wrong, of course. The Lord explained that He had 7,000 who remained faithful (vs. 18). But, what […]
Respecting Our Elders Joe R. Price The Bible says, “Do not rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers…” (1 Tim. 5:1-2). How we treat our elders says something about our values. And, it says something about our regard for God. Our nation is obsessed […]
“Dear Lord, I Am Growing Older“ (Selected and Adapted) Dear Lord, The years have sped by so rapidly, and I find I am no longer young. As I grow older, Lord, I truly need Thy help to keep me close to Thy house of prayer. Satan would have me think about my aching bones and […]
The Glory of Old Age Lord, keep me from the fatal habit of thinking that I must say something on every subject and on every occasion. Release me from craving to straighten out everybody’s affairs. Make me thoughtful but not moody; helpful but not bossy. With my vast store of wisdom, it seems a pity […]
Calling All “Aged” Christians Greg Gwin Paul indicated to Titus that certain duties are to be enjoined upon those who older. They are to teach the younger people by word and deed. Notice: {1}But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: {2} That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in […]
Will You Still Love Me? Will you still love me if I don’t know your name, When my eyes have failed and nothing’s the same? When I don’t know the date or even my age, Or what is this book and where is the page? Will you take time to remember and cherish our past […]
ASHES AND FLAMES Oftentimes we look with forebodings to the time of old age, forgetful that at eventide it shall be light. To many saints of old age it is the choicest season in their lives. A balmier air fans the mariner’s cheek as he nears the shore of immortality; fewer waves ruffle his sea, […]
Barzillai David Smitherman The name “Barzillai” is not familiar to most Bible students; it never comes up in “Bible Drill” classes. And what a shame. In an era when many worship at the shrine of youth, those who are aged and those who will become such someday unless death gets us first (i.e., everyone), need […]
THE LOST BOY Once a little boy was lost in the woods. The alarm was sounded, a church meeting was broken up, the whole neighborhood aroused. Fishermen abandoned their nets, and merchants closed their shops. Plows were left in the fields and washings in the tubs. Everyone turned out to look for the little fellow. […]
What Is Our Standard of Authority? Carrol R. Sutton In every phase of human activity, we constantly see the need for recognizing a standard of authority. In time, weights, and measures, we accept certain standards. Otherwise, there would be confusion. Our honesty and sincerity is not sufficient when it comes to determining the time of […]
What a Privilege to Pray Donnie V. Rader When we realize what a privilege prayer is, we like the disciples of old will plead, “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1). I am afraid that many of us take prayer for granted. We are not as prayerful as we ought to be simply because we […]
Your Own Version You are writing a Gospel, A chapter each day, By deeds that you do, By words that you say, Men read what you write, Whether faithless or true; Say, what is the Gospel According to YOU?
The Word of God For feelings come and feelings go, And feelings are deceiving; My warrant is the Word of God Nought else is worth believing. I’ll trust in God’s unchanging Word Till soul and body sever: For, though all things shall pass away, His Word shall stand forever.
Gifts To your enemy, FORGIVENESS, To an opponent, TOLERANCE, To a friend, YOUR HEART, To a customer, SERVICE, To all men, CHARITY, To every child, A GOOD EXAMPLE, To yourself, RESPECT.
If you wouldn’t write it and sign it, don’t say it. It is better to remain silent and appear dumb than to speak and remove all doubt. When people speak ill of you, so live that no one will believe them. If the Lord intended for us to live in a permissive society, wouldn’t the […]
“Bless the Lord, O My Soul” (Psalm 103) Mike Johnson There are 150 psalms in the Bible. David wrote most of them, but there are other writers, such as Asaph, Korah, Moses, and Solomon. There are many psalms classified as psalms of praise. A well-known psalm of praise is Psalm 103. Highly extolled, it is […]
Teach Us to Number Our Days (Psalm 90) Mike Johnson Moses is thought to be the writer of Psalm 90. The basis for this conclusion is due to his name being in the superscription (title) of the psalm. The title is not part of the inspired text, so there is no certainty that he is […]
Some Day… Netagene Kirkpatrick I’ve studied God’s Word. I guess that it’s true. Depending on self – usually will do. I live fairly well. What more can I say? I’ll follow this Jesus – Some day. There’s all kinds of sins, some big and some small, like little white lies – that don’t matter at […]
Mental Attitudes Author Unknown Tom Jones and Sam Brown went to a church service on Sunday morning. They entered side by side. They sat in the same pew. After the last song and benediction, they arose and departed as they had come. Said Tom Jones to Sam Brown, “The service was a soul-feast. The songs […]
Cleaning Out the Barn Mark McCrary Growing up, this was the job I hated the most (and, hated is not too strong a word). Three times a week I had to clean out the feed room in the barn. That includes everything you think would be included. It was a stinky, unpleasant job. I did […]
SEEKING THINGS ABOVE “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. “(Col. 3:1) Volume I Number 1 April 2020 ================================================== Table of Contents A Hymn of Faith (Habakkuk’s Prayer) —– Habakkuk Surviving the Financial Crisis ————- Kent Heaton Lift Up Your […]
THE LAND OF PRETTY SOON Selected “I know a land where the streets are paved With things we meant to achieve; Walled with money we meant to have saved And the pleasures for which we grieve, Kind words unspoken, promises broken, And many a coveted boon Are gathered there in that land somewhere, The Land […]
========================================= SEEKING THINGS ABOVE “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. “(Col. 3:1) Volume II Number 12 March 2022 ========================================= Dorcas, a Fond Remembrance by Friends Bill Feist She was married to a non-Christian. I met her years after […]
COMMIT YOUR WAY TO THE LORD (Psalm 37:5) Mike Johnson Psalm 37:5 says, “Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass.” Psalm 37 is an admonition to followers of God to retain their confidence in Him and not be discouraged when facing the hardships in life. […]
PRAISING GOD’S WORKS (Psalm 111) Mike Johnson Psalm 111 starts with the exclamation, “Praise the Lord!” This psalm fits into a category of psalms known as “Hallelujah Psalms.” These psalms start and end, or start or end, with “hallelujah” or “praise the Lord.” Psalm 111 is the first in a trilogy of Hallelujah Psalms. This Psalm fits into another […]
It Just Slipped Out … Of What? Bryan Matthew Dockens When excusing themselves for uttering profanities or curses, the kind of words which should never escape our mouths (Ephesians 4:29), many will say, “I’m sorry; it just slipped out”. But what did those corrupt words slip out of, exactly? Jesus explained, “For out of the […]
The Drive Through Sheldon Smith This morning on the way to work, I decided to stop by McDonald’s. It was one of those newly designed restaurants with the double drive-through. There were several cars in each line. The normal process is for cars to form a single line after putting in their order. It’s kind […]
Acceptance by Our Rock and Redeemer (Psalm 19:14) Mike Johnson Psalm 19:14 says, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.” This verse is at the end of a magnificent Psalm. In verses 1-6, the writer spoke about the […]
More Valuable Than Gold (Psalm 19:10) Mike Johnson Psalm 19:10 (thought to be written by David) says the Word of God is “… more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.” (NASB) Wealth, whether in the form of gold or some other type of […]
“The Heavens Declare the Glory of God” (Psalm 19) Mike Johnson Psalm 19 is beautifully written and has been revered by many people over the years. From it, many conclude that there is a God who created the universe, and He has revealed Himself to mankind through the Scriptures. From verses 12-14, the awesomeness of […]
Shady Lane, the Preacher & the Boy Ken McDaniel During a recent gospel meeting that I preached, the local evangelist and I went calling on a few individuals in hopes of motivating some to faithfulness and setting up Bible studies with others who have not yet been saved. As is often the case, we struck […]
Introduction to the Parables Mike Johnson “All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them.” (Mt. 13:34) This passage speaks of the beginning of Christ’s teaching by parables. It also indicates that one of the primary methods employed by Him in his instruction was […]
The Parable of the Best Seats Mike Johnson “When you are invited by anyone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in the best place, lest one more honorable than you be invited by him; and he who invited you and him come and say to you, ‘Give place to this man,’ and then […]
The Parable of the Dragnet Mike Johnson In Matthew 13, there are several parables recorded. One is the “Parable of the Net,” recorded in verses 47-50. Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like a dragnet that was cast into the sea and gathered some of every kind, which, when it was full, they drew to […]
The Parable of the Fig Tree Mike Johnson The Bible mentions fig trees several times. For example, Matthew 21:19 speaks of a withered fig tree; John 1:48 tells about a person under a fig tree, while James 3:12 asks a question about a fig tree. There is an interesting parable about a fig tree recorded in […]
The Parable of the Good Samaritan Mike Johnson In Luke 10:25, we read about a lawyer who tested Jesus with a question. The question was, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus responded by asking the lawyer to tell Him the teaching of the law. This question should have been easy to answer […]
The Parable of the Great Supper Mike Johnson The “Parable of the Great Supper” is in Luke 14:16-24. Jesus taught this parable in the house of one of the chief Pharisees. Verse 1 indicates that Jesus had gone there on the Sabbath day to eat bread. While there, Jesus healed a man and taught about […]
The Parable of the Hidden Treasure Mike Johnson Matthew 13:44 records the Parable of the Hidden Treasure. It says, “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” This […]
The Parable of the Lost Sheep Mike Johnson In Luke 15, three parables teach the same general lesson. They are the parables of the “Lost Sheep,” the “Lost Coin,” and the “Prodigal Son.” In this article, we will discuss the “Parable of the Lost Sheep” is in verses 4-7. What man of you, having a […]
The Parable of the Lost Son Mike Johnson There are three very well know parables recorded in Luke 15. They are the parables of the “Lost Sheep,” the “Lost Coin,” and the “Lost Son.” The setting in which Jesus presented these parables is in verses 1-2. The publicans and sinners had drawn near Christ, prompting the Pharisees and scribes […]
The Parable of the Marriage Feast Mike Johnson In Matthew 21, Jesus presented the “Parable of the Two Sons” and the “Parable of the Wicked Husbandman” after certain chief priests and elders questioned His authority (21:23). After hearing these parables, they perceived that Jesus was talking about them (21:45) and wanted to arrest Him, but […]
The Parable of the Mustard Seed Mike Johnson Matthew 13:31-32 is one of the accounts where “The Parable of the Mustard Seed” is found, and it tells us about the growth of the kingdom. The passage says: Another parable He put forth to them, saying: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which […]
The Parable of the Rich Fool Mike Johnson The Parable of the Rich Fool is in Luke 12:16-21. Here, Jesus said: Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store […]
The Parable of the Pharisee & the Tax Collector Mike Johnson The “Parable of the Pharisee and Tax Collector” is only found in Luke 18:9-14. Jesus pointed out that a Pharisee and a tax collector went to the temple to pray. He then contrasted their prayers and attitudes. He addresses the parable “to some who […]
The Parable of the Unworthy Servant Mike Johnson The Parable of the Unworthy Servant is found in Luke 17:7-10. And which of you, having a servant plowing or tending sheep, will say to him when he has come in from the field, ‘Come at once and sit down to eat’? But will he not rather […]
The Parable of the Sower Mike Johnson One of the most familiar parables taught by Christ is the “Parable of the Sower.” We know that a teacher has an important responsibility. This parable, however, makes the essential point that hearers have a critical obligation also. The Parable of the Sower is in three of the […]
The Parable of the Ten Virgins Mike Johnson The “Parable of the Ten Virgins” is recorded in Matthew 25:1-13. The passage says that ten virgins were waiting for the return of a bridegroom who did not arrive on time. Consequently, five of the virgins (referred to as foolish) ran out of oil for their lamps and […]
THE PARABLE OF THE TOWER Mike Johnson The “Parable of the Tower” is in Luke 14:28-30. A similar parable, The “Parable of the King,” is recorded in verses 31-32. Both of these parables show the importance of “counting the cost.” The focus of this article will be the first parable. It reads: “For which of […]
The Parable of the Two Builders (Mt. 7:24-27, Lk. 6:47-49) Mike Johnson From time to time, a great deal of damage occurs throughout our country and the world due to extensive rainfall. Floodwaters, as well as mudslides, can cause death and destruction. Likewise, a house can topple down a hillside. Such events, although tragic, brings to […]
THE PARABLE OF THE TWO SONS Mike Johnson This intriguing parable is recorded in Matthew 21:28-32. At this point, Jesus’ enemies were intensely trying to discredit Him. After their attempt, He presented “The Parable of the Two Sons.” Verses 23-27 reveal the circumstances surrounding this parable. The chief priests and elders had asked Jesus, “By […]
The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant (Matthew 18:21-35) Mike Johnson On one occasion, during the ministry of Jesus, Peter asked Him this question, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Peter probably felt the number which he mentioned was very generous. Seven times would have […]
The Wicked Vine-dressers Mike Johnson The Bible indicates that Jesus taught a great deal by parables. He would take something the people were familiar with and compare it to a spiritual truth to educate them. In His parables, Jesus discussed such things as planting seeds, baking bread, finding a hidden treasure, going fishing, and losing sheep. […]
SEEKING THINGS ABOVE “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. “(Col. 3:1) Volume I Number 2 May 2020 ================================================== Table of Contents Failure to Get Back to Basics ————— Connie W. Adams Now Is the Time to Obey God—————- Author […]
EXAGGERATION Shane Williams I heard a story recently of a woman who was talking to her preacher. She said, “I have a habit that I know is hurting my example — the habit of exaggeration. I start to tell something and I go on and on enlarging the story. People suspect that it’s not true. […]
THINGS WE’VE LEARNED Bob Craig First anniversary! We’ve learned what marriage is all about, We’re ready to testify, It’s huggin’ and kissin’ and makin’ out, That’s what marriage is all about. Tenth anniversary! We’ve learned more than we knew before, We’re experts in our line, It’s kids and bills and maybe a doubt, That […]
Trust in God & Do Good (Psalm 37:3) Mike Johnson Psalm 37:3 says, “Trust in the Lord, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.” Psalm 37 encourages God’s people to avoid being upset about the prosperity and, seemingly, good life of evildoers. Instead, the Psalmist encourages various positive endeavors. Among […]
BIBLICAL AUTHORITY Mike Johnson “For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.” (1 Thess. […]
Church Growth (1) Introduction to Church Growth Mike Johnson What can we do to make our congregation grow? Church members often ask this question. It is essential for a church to grow. First, to even continue to exist, it must grow. A church that is not increasing over a period of time is dying. Second, […]
CHURCH GROWTH (02) Concepts of Growth Mike Johnson There are two ways a church can grow. Generally, when people speak of the growth of a church, they are talking about numerical growth. The reason for this is that we can easily observe the numerical increase, and we tend to look at this type of growth […]
CHURCH GROWTH (3) Improper Methods of Growth Mike Johnson For some congregations, numerical growth is the most crucial issue. They will do almost anything to obtain new members or retain those they already have. They take great pride in the size of their congregation, showing little concern about whether their growth methods are pleasing to […]
CHURCH GROWTH (4) Factors in Church Growth (1) Location of the Building Mike Johnson When a church does not grow, or even declines in membership, people may ask why this occurs. Why do some churches grow while others drop in numbers? Several factors can come into play. One factor can be the location of the building. […]
CHURCH GROWTH 05 Factors in Church Growth (2) “The Times We Are Living In” Mike Johnson There are many factors, which can affect church growth. Sometimes, we explain the lack of growth in a congregation by the “times we are living in.” The moral and religious climate of today can have a negative bearing on […]
CHURCH GROWTH (6) Factors in Church Growth (3) Christians Who Move into the Area Mike Johnson A church may grow for various reasons. Some churches grow because they are located in a city or in an area where many people are moving. Some of these people may be members of the Lord’s church, so the […]
CHURCH GROWTH (7) Factors in Church Growth (4) Young People Mike Johnson There are many congregations today, which have very few young people. When a group starts to dwindle, it is often left with very few children. Some young people grow up, get married, and move to another area. Others remain in the area but […]
CHURCH GROWTH (8) Why Churches Die (1) Lack of Proper Teaching Mike Johnson There are many external factors, which can contribute to a congregation’s demise. Such factors as the location of a building, the “wicked times in which we are living,” an inability to attract Christians who move into the area, and a lack of […]
CHURCH GROWTH (9) Why Churches Die (2) Not Having Needed Leadership Mike Johnson There are many external factors, which can contribute to a congregation’s demise. Such factors as the location of the building, the wicked times in which we are living, an inability to attract Christians who move into the area, and a lack of […]
CHURCH GROWTH (10) Why Churches Die (3) A Failure to Evangelize Mike Johnson There are many external factors, which can contribute to a congregation’s demise. Such factors as the location of the building, wicked times in which we are living, an inability to attract Christians who move into the area, and a lack of young […]
CHURCH GROWTH (11) Why Churches Die (4) Lukewarmness/Unfaithfulness Mike Johnson There are many negative factors, which may exist in a congregation, which pertain to the spirituality of its members. Over time, these factors will cause the congregation to die. For example, a group may die because it does not receive sound preaching and teaching. It […]
SEEKING THINGS ABOVE “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. “(Col. 3:1) Volume I Number 3 June 2020 ============================================== Table of Contents “Bless the Lord, O My Soul!” (Ps. 19) ————— Mike Johnson “Lord, I’m Just too Busy” (Audio) —————– […]
BIBLICAL AUTHORITY (1) The Need for Divine Authority (Introduction) Mike Johnson “By what authority are You doing these things? And who gave You this authority?” These questions were asked of Jesus in the Jerusalem temple by certain Jewish chief priests and elders (Mt. 21:23). Although not sincerely motivated, these questions bring out two vital principles. […]
A Study of Bible Authority (2) THE AUTHORITY OF GOD Mike Johnson Everyone is subject to authority today. Employees, for example, are subject to the rule of their employers. We are all under the laws of our government, whether we want to be or not. There is authority we put ourselves under by choice, and […]
Biblical Authority (3) The Authority of Christ Mike Johnson Many people today do not understand the importance of having Bible authority. In previous articles, we have noted that we must follow divine authority instead of trying to direct our own steps. Next, we discussed the authority of God and noted that God certainly has the […]
Biblical Authority (4) The Authority of the Apostles Mike Johnson Many acknowledge the authority of God and Christ but do not accept or understand the Apostles’ authority. Some people today say we only need the words of Jesus to guide us. Some who take this position place a great deal of emphasis on the red-letter edition of the […]
A Study of Bible AUTHORITY (5) Obedience and the Old Testament Mike Johnson One of the most vital questions in studying Christianity is the question of authority. As was noted earlier, during the life of Christ, the chief priests and elders raised this question when they asked Jesus (Mt. 21:23), “By what authority are You doing […]
BIBLICAL AUTHORITY (6) Authority and the New Testament Mike Johnson The Scriptures teach the authority of God, Christ, and the apostles (Ps. 50:10-12; Heb. 1:1-2; Mt. 16:19, 17:5, 18:18; 2 Cor. 5:20; Phil. 4:9). Also, the Holy Spirit played a role as He guided the apostles “unto all truth.” Consider now the authority of the […]
Biblical Authority (7) Adhering to the Gospel Message Mike Johnson From the Old Testament, it is clear that God intends for the Scriptures to be followed and not deviated from in any way (Deut 4:1-4, 5:32-33; Josh. 1:7; Num. 22:18, 24:13; Pb. 4:26-27, 30:5-6; Lev. 18:4-5). Consider now the same concept from the New Testament. Jude (v. […]
Biblical Authority (8) Direct Command Mike Johnson How do we establish Bible authority? It seems clear from the Scriptures that God intends for us to determine biblical authority in four ways. These are direct command, direct statement, approved apostolic example, and necessary inference. (Sometimes, direct command and direct statement are combined.) A broader classification of […]
Biblical Authority (9) Direct Statement Mike Johnson The Bible teaches direct command is one form of Bible authority. (Others are approved example and necessary inference). However, other kinds of statements do not occur in the command form but still serve as our guide. They have the same force of authority as a direct command. Consider the […]
Biblical Authority (10) Approved Example Mike Johnson What should be our attitude toward the concept of “example” as an acceptable form of Bible authority? There are three possible attitudes one might have. First, a person might say that all examples are binding. However, this attitude is unlikely, and, as we will see later, this would be a […]
BIBLICAL AUTHORITY (11) Necessary Inference Mike Johnson Three forms of Bible authority govern us today. These are direct commands or statements, approved examples, and necessary inferences or conclusions. Most are willing to accept direct commands or statements as Bible authority. However, some may question the concept of approved examples, and a growing number challenge the […]
BIBLICAL AUTHORITY (12) Generic & Specific Authority Mike Johnson Many have failed to understand the concept of generic and specific authority. These people may realize the need for a direct command or statement, approved example, and necessary inference for Bible authority. However, confusion can undoubtedly result if they do not understand the concept of generic […]
BIBLICAL AUTHORITY (13) The Silence of the Scriptures Mike Johnson What should be our attitude regarding the silence of the Scriptures? What should we do regarding situations in which the Lord says nothing? These questions are critical. Disagreement on how to regard the silence of the Scriptures has caused much division over the years. If […]
BIBLICAL AUTHORITY (14) FALSE STANDARDS Mike Johnson Why is there so much division and confusion today in the religious world? Why are there so many different doctrines and so many religious groups? One reason is that many have never learned the importance of Bible authority. Some may acknowledge the need for guidance from the Bible, […]
============================================== SEEKING THINGS ABOVE “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. “(Col. 3:1) Volume I Number 4 July 2020 ============================================== Table of Contents What a Privilege to Pray ——————— Donnie V. Rader What Is Truth —————————————– Mike Johnson What Is […]
Benefits from God (Psalm 103:3-7) Mike Johnson Speaking about God, Psalm 103:3-7 says, “Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The Lord […]
Five Steps to Peace (Psalm 37:3-8) Mike Johnson “Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb (Ps. 37:1-2).” When we think of the word “fret,” we may think of someone continuously or excessively […]
MAKE A JOYFUL SHOUT! (Psalm 100) Mike Johnson A very well known and oft-quoted poem, Psalm 100 centers on worshiping and knowing God. Although it contains only five verses, the psalm has essential and relevant information. Some think David is the author, although there is uncertainty. The speculation is that the Jews used this psalm […]
The Possibility of Apostasy (2) (Galatians 5:4) Mike Johnson Can a child of God fall from grace? Galatians 5:4 plainly says to those who are Christians that they can fall from grace. It seems some were teaching it was necessary to obey certain aspects of the old law to be saved, such as circumcision. Paul […]
The Possibility of Apostasy (3) (II Peter 2:20-22) Mike Johnson 2 Peter 2 describes particular false teachers. Not only did they teach false doctrine (v. 1), but they were very immoral. Please read the entire chapter for a full description of these ungodly people. Undoubtedly, they were in a lost state at the time of […]
The Possibility of Apostasy (4) (2 Peter 1:5-11) Mike Johnson Many passages in the Scriptures teach that a child of God can fall from grace. Advocates of the doctrine of the impossibility of apostasy often approach these passages in one of two ways. First, they say that a particular passage speaks about Christians, but it […]
The Possibility of Apostasy (5) (John 15:1-6) Mike Johnson John 15:1-6 records the Parable of the Vine and the Branches. It says: I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that […]
The Possibility of Apostasy (6) (Acts 8:5-25) Mike Johnson Many passages teach that a child of God can fall from grace. Among them is Acts 8:5-25, which describes the conversion of the people of Samaria and a sorcerer named Simon. Many responded to Philip’s preaching and became Christians. Verse 12 says they believed, and Philip […]
The Possibility of Apostasy (7) (I Corinthians 10:12) Mike Johnson Many teach that once people become Christians, they cannot possibly be lost. This doctrine is known as “Once Saved, Always Saved,” “The Impossibility of Apostasy,” and “The Perseverance of the Saints.” However, this teaching is contrary to many passages in God’s Word; among these is […]
The Possibility of Apostasy (8) (I Corinthians 9:27) Mike Johnson In this series, we have been looking at passages that show the possibility of apostasy. Many passages teach that a child of God can fall from grace. Among them is 1 Corinthians 9:27, which says, “But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, […]
The Possibility of Apostasy (9) (1 & 2 Timothy) Mike Johnson In 1 and 2 Timothy, Paul calls Timothy’s attention to many things that can happen to a person’s faith. Those who teach “once saved, always saved” usually teach that people are saved by “faith only.” It should be no trouble to see if people […]
The Possibility of Apostasy (10) (Hebrews 3:4-13) Mike Johnson The inspired writer wrote the book of Hebrews to the Hebrews (or Jews). Many of them had become Christians, and there was a tendency to return to the religion they formally practiced. They wanted to return to the Law of Moses and observe the various ceremonies […]
The Possibility of Apostasy (11) (Hebrews 6:4-6) Mike Johnson Many passages teach that a child of God can fall from grace. One such passage is in Hebrews 6:1-3. Here, the writer urges certain ones (who he had characterized earlier as “babes” in Christ- v. 13) to “go on unto perfection.” He wanted them to become mature; […]
The Possibility of Apostasy (12) (Hebrews 10:26-31) Mike Johnson We are continuing to examine passages that show the possibility of apostasy. Consider a very familiar context in the book of Hebrews. Hebrews 10:26 says, “For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for […]
The Possibility of Apostasy (13) (James 5:19-20) Mike Johnson James 5:19-20 says, “Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.” He is […]