"Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil" (Eph. 5:15-16) ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
NOVEMBER 2019 | NO. 11 | VOLUME 63
THE INTERNET
GENERATION
“Therefore be careful how
you walk, not as unwise
men but as wise, making
the most of your time,
because the days are evil”
(Eph. 5:15-16).
NOVEMBER 2019 | NO. 11 | VOLUME 63
Features
(ISSN 1538-0793) is published once a month O Be Careful
by Truth Publications, Inc., 220 S. Marion, by Mark Mayberry pg 4
Athens, AL 35611. Postage paid at Bowling
Green, KY and additional mailing offices. Oh, be careful, little eyes, what you see, Oh, be careful, little eyes, what you see.
There’s a Father up above looking down in tender love, Oh, be careful, little eyes,
Manuscripts should be sent to the editor:
Mark Mayberry (mark@truthpublications.com) what you see.
Subscriptions, renewals & other
correspondence should be sent to: “Be Angry and Do Not Sin”
Truth Magazine
220 S. Marion
by Kyle Pope pg 6
Athens, AL 35611 The sacredness or sinfulness of anger/wrath is determined by its motivation,
Book orders should be sent to: intent, and expression. It is not wrong to feel passionately about something.
CEI Bookstore However, such strong emotions must be given proper channel and expression.
220 S. Marion
Athens, AL 35611
Phone: (855) 492-6657
truthbooks.com The Principle of the Teaching Process (Part 1)
by Aleta Samford pg 8
Online Website:
truthmagazine.com “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire”—William Butler Yeats.
Send change of address to Postmaster at:
220 S. Marion
Athens, AL 35611 Whose Image and Inscription Is on the Coin?
Graphic Designer:
by David Flatt pg 10
Kelly McCombs
Let us consider the deeper meaning of Jesus’ encounter with the Herodians. This
KMCimage@gmail.com • (615) 210-8599
famous scene has far more meaning than merely our obligation to pay taxes.
DISCLAIMER:
Books in ads are screened but an ad does not
mean unqualified endorsement. All books should
be tested by Scripture. We appreciate readers
Cultivating Diligence in Our Children
notifying us if they find some glaring fault in ads. by Daniel Mayberry pg 14
pg 35 Diligence is demanded in the word of God. How do we cultivate this quality in
ourselves and our children?
Question & Answer
by Bobby L. Graham pg 16
Beginning in 1952, the Herald of Truth has used mass media (radio, television,
and now, the internet) to share the gospel. However, two problems exist: they
solicit funds from churches of Christ, and they have drifted far from biblical truth.
Haran, Home of the Patriarchs
by Leon Mauldin pg 18
Let us look at the Haran of the patriarchs and note its importance in the Genesis
account of the history of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the sons of Israel.
2 November 2019 | truthmagazine.com
The Internet Generation
■■
Social Un-Networking ■■
Virtual vs. Real Relationships ■■
Digital Distractions
by Zachery Henry pg 22 by Bruce Reeves pg 24 by Jesse Flowers pg 26
Since the dawn of time, man’s chosen In an age of easy communication Christians today live in a world that is
means of communication have consisted and constant connectivity, one must filled with digital distractions; therefore,
of words, letters, and signs. We still use ask, “Whatever happened to real it is vitally important that we refocus our
these same forms of communication relationships?” attention on Christ and His unchanging,
to convey our thoughts and messages, eternal truths.
albeit with very different tools.
■■
A World of Knowledge ■■
Influence and Influencers ■■
Overcoming Digital Temptations
by Danny Linden pg 28 by Shane Carrington pg 30 by Heath Rogers pg 32
How can Christians effectively use the Social and entertainment media Christians must remain alert while
world of knowledge that available on dramatically impact our lifestyles online, knowing that the devil effectively
the internet without falling prey to and influence, so let us use these in uses advancing technology to entice,
misinformation or worse? discerning ways to further godliness, not entrap, and destroy us in sin.
worldliness.
November 2019 | truthmagazine.com 3
Editorial
O Be Careful
by Mark Mayberry
Oh, be careful, little eyes, what you see, Oh, be careful, little eyes, what you see. There’s a Father up above looking
down in tender love, Oh, be careful, little eyes, what you see.
Profound truths can be shared with Heart evil” (Prov. 1:10-19, esp. v. 15). Our Lord
simple words. Consider the familiar offers a similar warning (Mark 9:45-46).
We must be careful with our hearts.
children’s song, “Oh Be Careful.” The
Proverbs 4:23 says, “Watch over your Therefore, may we live with purpose,
Bible repeatedly warns the people
heart with all diligence, For from it watching the paths we trod (Prov. 4:20-
of God to “be careful” (Deut. 6:1-9;
flow the springs of life.” In saying, 27), making straight paths for our feet
Ezek. 36:22-32; 1 Cor. 3:10; Eph. 5:15-
“That which proceeds out of the man, (Heb. 12:12-13). Be prepared. Although
16; Titus 3:8). Prudence is required
that is what defiles the man,” Jesus frequently overlooked, proper footwear
with our hearts, hands, and feet.
echoed this theme (Mark 7:20-23). is essential. Running and rock-climbing
Don’t forget your eyes, ears, and
mouth. In every aspect of life, let us shoes serve different needs. So also
God commanded the nation of
remember that God is watching. flip-flops and work boots. Have you
Israel, “Only give heed to yourself and
shod your feet with the preparation
keep your soul diligently, so that you
When Paul says, “Be careful” (1 Cor. of the gospel of peace (Eph. 6:15)?
do not forget the things which your
3:10; Eph. 5:15-16), he uses the Greek Are you conducting yourself as a
eyes have seen and they do not depart
word blepō, which means “to look vessel for honor, sanctified, useful
from your heart all the days of your
at, observe, or see.” In other words, to the Master, prepared for every
life; but make them known to your
“Watch what you are doing!” There good work (2 Tim. 2:20-21)?
sons and your grandsons” (Deut. 4:9).
is a difference between mindlessly
Solomon said, “Incline your heart to Eyes
staring at a page, and actively trying
understanding” (Prov. 2:1-6, esp. v. 2).
to comprehend the text. Used in this We must be careful with our eyes.
sense, “to see” means “to process Hands Jesus said, “The eye is the lamp of the
information by giving thought, direct body; so then if your eye is clear, your
one’s attention to something” (BDAG, We must be careful with our hands.
whole body will be full of light. But
179). Bible study requires mental Jesus said, “If your hand or your foot
if your eye is bad, your whole body
discipline. Spiritually speaking, we causes you to stumble, cut it off and
will be full of darkness. If then the
must not “sleepwalk” through life. throw it from you; it is better for you
light that is in you is darkness, how
In Matthew 24 and Mark 13, Jesus to enter life crippled or lame, than
great is the darkness!” (Matt. 6:22-23).
discusses signs of the end, making to have two hands or two feet and
He soberly warned against allowing
application to the destruction of be cast into the eternal fire” (Matt.
our eyes to cause us to stumble
Jerusalem (which occurred in AD 70) 18:8; Mark 9:43-44). May we keep our
(Matt. 5:27-29; 18:9; Mark 9:47-48).
and the end of time (which remains hands spiritually clean (1 Tim. 2:8; Jas.
in the future). He ends both sections 4:8) and actively dedicated to doing May we allow morality to govern
by saying, “Take heed” (Mark 13:23, good (Eccl. 9:10; 1 Thess. 4:9-12). the gift of sight. Job said, “I have made
33). In other words, “Heads up!” Paul a covenant with my eyes; How then
Feet could I gaze at a virgin?” (Job 31:1).
shows similar seriousness in warning
the Philippians, “Beware of the dogs, We must be careful with our feet. Failure in focus can be catastrophic:
beware of the evil workers, beware of Sinners may say, “Come with us. Let Remember David’s folly (2 Sam. 11:2-
the false circumcision” (Phil. 3:2-3). us share the spoils of wrongdoing.” 5; Prov. 6:23-29). Instead of being
In other words, “Pay attention!” Wisdom entreats, “My son, do not walk captured by the eyes of a seductress
in the way with them. Keep your feet (Prov. 6:23-29), search for a spiritually-
from their path, for their feet run to minded spouse who will be a loving
4 November 2019 | truthmagazine.com
and life-long companion (Song of Sol. those who were indifferent but divulge 12:36-37), and deeds (Matt. 16:27;
4:1, 8-9; 7:4). Wait patiently until the the truth to those who are discerning Rom. 2:4-11). God will judge our
time is right (Song of Sol. 2:7; 8:4). (Matt. 13:10-17). When God’s word secret sins, along with those that are
challenges our preconceptions, may we brazenly public (Eccl. 12:13-14; Rom.
Ears heed Jesus’ warning, “Let these words 2:16; 1 Pet. 4:3-6). Are you prepared
We must be careful with our ears. sink into your ears…” (Luke 9:37-45). to stand before Him in judgment (2
In ancient Greek mythology, Sirens Cor. 5:10-11; Rev. 20:11-15)?
enticed sailors with their sweet voices, Mouth
luring them close to the rocky coasts We must be careful with our Sources
of their island, leading to shipwreck mouths. David said, “I will guard BDAG = Bauer, Walter, Frederick W.
and ruin. Potiphar’s wife looked my ways that I may not sin with Danker, William Arndt and F. Wilbur
with desire at Joseph, and said, “Lie my tongue; I will guard my mouth Gingrich. A Greek-English Lexicon of
with me.” Although she entreated as with a muzzle…” (Ps. 39:1). May the New Testament and Other Early
him day after day, Joseph did not we speak truth, not falsehood (Ps. Christian Literature. 3rd ed. Chicago:
listen to her to lie beside her or be 34:11-16; Eph. 4:25), bless and not University of Chicago Press, 2000.
with her (Gen. 39:5-13, esp. v. 10). curse (Eph. 4:29-32; Jas. 3:2-12).
Mark and Sherelyn have labored
Positively, we must be attentive to Conclusion with the Adoue Street church
of Christ in Alvin, TX since 1998,
wisdom and receptive to truth. God
Remember, God is watching (Ps. where he serves as the evangelist
says, “Listen, O my people, to my and an elder. The church website
11:4-7; 139:1-12, 23-24). We will give
instruction; incline your ears to the is ascoc.org. His website is
an account of our thoughts (Jer. markmayberry.net and his email
words of my mouth…” (Ps. 78:1-4; Prov. Mark Mayberry
17:10; Heb. 4:12-13), words (Matt. is mark@truthpublications.com.
23:12). Parables cloak the truth from Editor
November 2019 | truthmagazine.com 5
Meditations
“Be Angry and Do Not Sin”
by Kyle Pope
The sacredness or sinfulness of anger/wrath is determined by its motivation, intent, and expression. It is not wrong to
feel passionately about something. However, such strong emotions must be given proper channel and expression.
In the fourth Psalm, David charges angry and resentful that someone These applications of this text
the reader, “Be angry, and do not has taken advantage of us. Perhaps, are valid, but they do not address
sin. Meditate within your heart on it is an unkind and hurtful word that all that Psalm 4:4 would teach us.
your bed, and be still” (Ps. 4:4, NKJV). was spoken to us—our blood boils, The Hebrew word translated “angry”
The apostle Paul quotes the first the pressure rises, and anger builds is ragaz, defined, “to be agitated,
part of this verse in his epistle to the within. In such cases, we look at the quiver, quake, be excited, perturbed”
Ephesians, and offers either additional instruction of the psalmist and the (BDB, 919). While the New Testament,
instruction or a paraphrase of the last apostle as warnings not to allow this in Ephesians 4:26 uses a word that
part of the verse, declaring, “Be angry, sudden anger to lead us to sin. more narrowly addresses anger,
and do not sin: do not let the sun go ragaz is used variously in Scripture
down on your wrath” (Eph. 4:26). Secondly, we also use this text as a in reference to fear (Exod. 15:14),
justification for righteous indignation. earthquake (1 Sam. 14:15), dislocation
This text is often applied in one of We consider the fact that Jesus, on (2 Sam. 7:10), tumultuous waters (Ps.
two ways. First, we understand it to occasion, was angered by sinful and 77:16), and rage (Isa. 37:29). The New
refer to our behavior when something hypocritical behavior. He drove out American Standard Bible renders
makes us angry. For example, a car the moneychangers with a whip (John this, “Tremble, and do not sin.”
pulls out in front of us on the highway, 2:15-16), yet Scripture tells us Jesus
and in our fear of an accident, we was “without sin” (Heb. 4:15). From Many things in life lead us to
get angry. A repairman cheats us by Jesus’ example and the words of the agitation and uneasiness. These
charging too much, leaving the job psalmist and the apostle, we see that might include fear, worry, frustration,
undone, or lying to us about work anger alone is not sin but must be persecution, hardship, weakness,
that was done. This makes us feel controlled, lest it lead us to commit sin. or anger. What do we do when we
have such an unsettled feeling? It is
so easy to allow agitation, anxiety,
or distress to make us sin! We allow
ourselves to see sin as justified.
We might say to ourselves, “They
wronged me; I’ll wrong them.” Or, we
lose our self-control. The trembling
agitation of the moment robs us of
the good sense we would normally
use to avoid sin. Although it is easy
at such times to sin, the psalmist
tells us, “Don’t do it!” Instead, do two
other things: (1) “Meditate within
your heart” (i.e., think about it and
carefully consider the situation); and
(2) “Be still.” This is not apathy or a
refusal to address a problem. It is
simply a matter of calming the raging
emotion of the moment to allow a
6 November 2019 | truthmagazine.com
cool evaluation of the situation. How He explains, “What comes out of a Sources
often are the good motives of the man, that defiles a man” (Mark 7:20).
BDB = Brown, Francis, Samuel Rolles
heart short-circuited by the hasty Listing a variety of sins, Jesus says,
Driver, and Charles Augustus Briggs.
movement of the tongue or body, as “All these evil things come from within
Enhanced Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew
the mind has become disengaged and defile a man” (Mark 7:23).
and English Lexicon. Oxford: Clarendon
in the process of rash anger?
We will face many things in life Press, 1977.
James says the same thing in that lead us to feel unsettled. The
charging us, “Be swift to hear, slow Lord calls us to realize that when we
to speak, slow to wrath” (Jas. 1:19). experience these things, the challenge Kyle preaches for the Olsen Park
Only a few verses before this, he for us, as God’s children, is not to let church of Christ in Amarillo, TX.
He has written several books
taught that all sin has an internal them lead us to sin. We will tremble, published by Truth Publications,
beginning in the desires of the heart shake, be agitated, be angry, or including How We Got the Bible.
(Jas. 1:15). Jesus addresses this in its perturbed, but it can and must be that The church website is olsenpark.
broadest terms. To those who were we “tremble, and do not sin.” Kyle Pope com. He can be reached at
kmpope@att.net.
interested only in external cleanliness,
November 2019 | truthmagazine.com 7
Women’s Insights
The Principle of the Teaching
Process (Part 1)
By Aleta Samford
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire”—William Butler Yeats.
To review, “the law of the lesson” (which we concluded perspective, he must know for himself and use his powers.
in August’s article), emphasized the importance of finding Students will resent you answering for them all the time.
where the student is in his knowledge before introducing
more material. Our goal is to help them feel empowered to “The eye must do its own seeing, the ear its own hearing,
learn more. It is unwise to think that we can start at a random, and the mind its own thinking” (Gregory, 27). It takes patience
unfamiliar place without losing the attention of our students. to allow children time to think, but it’s something we must
allow. Why? Because they will one day have to work out
We move now to “the law of the teaching process,” which their own salvation, just as we will. We must think of them as
states, “Excite and direct the self-activities of the pupil and as soldiers in training who are learning how to don the spiritual
a rule, tell him nothing that he can learn himself.” armor of God, so they can get used to relying on it. Satan is
prowling for their souls, and they need to be ready to stand
Once you’ve found where to begin with your students, against him.
it’s time to nudge them to learn more. Now is the time for
motivation. “Make your students discoverers of truth. Make Also, like us, they have a race to run! They need to get and
them find out for themselves. Wake up your students’ minds. stay in shape. While they are little, our goal is to motivate
Set your students to thinking. Arouse the spirit of inquiry” them to want to search out the answers and to obey on their
(Gregory, 85). own.
Do you remember this quote by Dwight D. Eisenhower: God reveals the principle of the teaching process in this
“Motivation is the art of getting people to do what you familiar verse: “But solid food belongs to those who are of
want them to do because they want to do it”? President full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses
Eisenhower said that motivation is an art. Some may think exercised to discern both good and evil” (Heb. 5:14).
that means having the knack, as in, “Yes, but it just comes
naturally for her!” Paul chose similar words in writing to Timothy: “Exercise
yourselves toward godliness” (1 Tim. 4:7). This is beginning
However, that’s not always the case. If you have been to sound like a workout, isn’t it? That’s exactly what it is:
taking all the Laws seriously, you’re on your way to perfecting a workout of the heart, soul, and mind. It is the teacher’s
the art, to becoming natural motivators. Just as you feel responsibility to prompt the children in this workout.
confident that, when fertile soil, water, and sun are present,
your flowers will grow, so, when all the principles of teaching One of my favorite places to start is by appealing to the
are applied, you can be confident that the seed will grow in senses of my students. What do they smell, taste, feel, hear, or
the hearts of your students and the desire (motivation) to act see in the lives of the Bible characters for themselves? For the
upon what they have learned will blossom. youngest children, bright colors and things in motion serve
as sense-exercisers, pulling them into the story. For the older
We want our children to dig out the information for students, appeal to their thoughts and feelings. Please join
themselves. Only then will it become a permanent part me in February’s article as we look at this law further.
of their thinking. Under special circumstances, you can
disregard this part of the Law: “tell him nothing that he can
Aleta is the wife of Gene Samford, who preaches for the
learn himself.” Those special circumstances may be (1) to save church that meets in Kemp, TX. She has taught Bible classes
time, like when you’re trying to beat the bell, (2) if a child is for forty-four years and, to help other women join the
discouraged, or (3) when their interest is high, and there’s a ranks, presents a series of lessons based on God’s word,
The Seven Laws of Teaching, and her own experiences.
demand for quick information. All in all, from each student’s She may be reached at aletas10@sbcglobal.net.
Aleta Samford
8 November 2019 | truthmagazine.com
November 2019 | truthmagazine.com 9
Doctrine
Whose Image and Inscription Is
on the Coin?
By David Flatt
Let us consider the deeper meaning of Jesus’ encounter with the Herodians. This famous scene has far more meaning
than merely our obligation to pay taxes.
In Matthew 21, a strange and Jesus Goes to the Temple past with the Roman Empire. The
unusual scene is described. Combining Herodians’ support of Herod made
As the events of Passover unfolded,
the symbols of Hanukah and Passover, them supporters of Rome. The scenario
Jesus went to the temple. Surprisingly,
Jesus is paraded through Jerusalem they presented was precisely stated.
the various Jewish sects conspired in
to the chant, “Hosanna to the Son of This legal question presented Jesus
an alliance against Jesus. Different
David! Blessed is he who comes in with a legal and moral dilemma.
Jewish groups were in constant
the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the
competition with one another; yet, The Herodians asked Jesus whether
highest!” (Matt. 21:9). The celebration
they found common ground in their or not it was lawful to pay tax to Caesar.
of Hanukah, or the Feast of Dedication,
hatred of Jesus. Each group asked a What did the Herodians mean by
was a commemoration of the victory of
question, attempting to discredit and “lawful”? If Jesus said it was lawful to
Judas Maccabaeus. The people waved
embarrass Him. Like any skilled lawyer, pay taxes to Rome, some might accuse
palm branches as they praised Judah.
these carefully crafted questions were Him of being a Roman sympathizer. If
Each year, Israel remembered their
intended to destroy His reputation. He said it was not lawful to pay taxes
independence and the rededication of
the temple. Yet, Hanukah was not just to Caesar (which was probably what
The Herodians were the first to
about the past, but also focused on the Herodians expected), they could
approach Jesus. Along with the
the future—anticipating the time when accuse Him of treason. No matter
Pharisees, they plotted how to
Israel’s real King would be enthroned. how Jesus answered, the Herodians
entangle Him in His words. They said,
thought He would be discredited.
“Teacher, we know that you are true
The Passover commemorated
and teach the way of God truthfully. Now, the Herodians were right
the Exodus: the time when Jehovah
You do not care about anyone’s about one part of their analysis. Jesus
rescued Israel from Egyptian slavery.
opinion, nor are you swayed by was an impartial teacher of God. His
However, like Hanukah, Passover
appearances. Tell us, then, what you impartiality and justice resulted in His
was not just about remembering the
think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, correct assessment of the Herodians:
past. This celebration was about the
or not?” Jesus, aware of their malice, they were brazen hypocrites. Little
future—anticipating the time when God
said, “Why put me to the test, you did they realize how He was about
would rescue Israel by the Messiah.
hypocrites? Show me the coin for the to expose their corruption.
In this scene depicted in Matthew tax.” And they brought him a denarius.
21, symbols of Hanukah and Passover And Jesus said to them, “Whose The Master Teacher’s answer to their
are combined and connected to Jesus. likeness and inscription is this?” question was surprising. Jesus asked
He was Israel’s king come to save them They said, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to for a coin. He asked the Herodians
from oppression; albeit, He would them, “Therefore render to Caesar the whose image and inscription were on
save Israel and the world in a way things that are Caesar’s, and to God the coin. Of course, Caesar’s image
completely unanticipated. Little did the things that are God’s.” When they was graven on it. Roman coins from
the multitudes know how differently heard it, they marveled. And they left this period had the image of Emperor
Jesus would be paraded through those him and went away (Matt. 22:15-22). Tiberius with the inscription, “Caesar
same streets in a few short days. Tiberius, son of the divine Augustus.”
As their name indicates, the After receiving the coin, Jesus told
Herodians had aligned themselves the Herodians to give to Caesar what
politically with the house of Herod. was his and to God what was His.
Herod’s dynasty had a storied The answer of Jesus created quite
10 November 2019 | truthmagazine.coma dilemma for the Herodians. They deceived themselves into thinking away: anger, wrath, malice, slander,
needed to make a moral judgment as to they could gain favor with both Herod/ and obscene talk from your mouth.
what belonged to the God they claimed Rome and God. Their desire to court Do not lie to one another, seeing
to know and serve. The Herodians the favor of the existing political that you have put off the old self
with its practices and have put on
were astonished and amazed by establishment led them to reject the
the new self, which is being renewed
Jesus’ response. Why was that? Messiah sent by the true and living God. in knowledge after the image of
its Creator (Col. 3:5-10, ESV).
Taking a Closer Look If we are not careful, we can also
become idolaters. We often elect to Sins that arise from our hearts are
Perhaps we have not given this
serve the gods of this world: the gods evidence of our idolatry. God’s wrath
passage the attention it deserves. If
of money, sex, and power (1 John will be poured out upon idolaters. This
all we take away from this teaching
2:16). We can deceive ourselves into has been demonstrated in the past
is that, in addition to serving God,
thinking we can gain the favor of this when Israel would turn aside to idols.
Christians need to pay their taxes,
world and the Creator. Such balance is Paul warns against the punishment
we miss the point. Jesus’ teaching is
not possible. Ultimately, our idolatry that will be poured out on idolaters:
not limited to the issue of taxation.
is expressed through specific acts
Yes, Christians must pay their taxes; Seeing it is a righteous thing with
of sin (Rom. 1:18-25). Idolatry and
however, the message is much more God to recompense tribulation to
transgression will keep us from our
profound. Taxation is not what them that trouble you; And to you
Creator in this life and the next. The who are troubled rest with us, when
left the Herodians speechless.
only hope we have is to allow Jesus the Lord Jesus shall be revealed
First and foremost, this teaching is to reveal, examine, and expose our from heaven with his mighty angels,
a warning against idolatry. The coin hearts. If we let Jesus question our In flaming fire taking vengeance on
that was handed to Jesus was a symbol hearts, we might be shocked at what them that know not God, and that
of idolatry. The very inscriptions on the examination might reveal. obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus
the coinage declared man to be a god. Christ: Who shall be punished with
Secondly, this encounter between everlasting destruction from the
The politically-minded Herodians
Jesus and the Herodians teaches presence of the Lord, and from the
had aligned themselves with the
us the importance of our image. glory of his power (2 Thess. 1:6-9).
rulers of this world. The Herodians
The image of Caesar was not just
had compromised their loyalty to the God’s image needed to be restored
on the coin. The image of Caesar
Creator and become idolaters. Do you in the hearts of the Herodians. If
was inscribed on the hearts of the
remember the first commandment? we heed this warning, God’s image
Herodians. This had to change.
It was a prohibition against idolatry: can be restored in us. Jesus can
And God spake all these words, We would be wise to consider whose transform our hearts, making us
saying, I am the Lord thy God, which image and inscription is on our hearts. into useful vessels of honor (2 Tim.
have brought thee out of the land of God endowed us with His image (Gen. 2:21). In so doing, we can become
Egypt, out of the house of bondage. 1:27), thus distinguishing us from the symbols of the Creator pointing to a
Thou shalt have no other gods before rest of His creation. As God’s image- bright, glorious eternity with Him.
me. Thou shalt not make unto thee bearers, we should reflect His glory into
any graven image or any likeness of the world. An idolater cannot reflect the Lastly, this account of Jesus and
anything that is in heaven above, or glory of the Creator. Rather than being the Herodians teaches us an important
that is in the earth beneath, or that
a symbol of the Giver of Life, idolaters lesson about order. What did the
is in the water under the earth: Thou Herodians owe Caesar? What did the
shalt not bow down thyself to them, are symbols of death. Thankfully, our
image can be restored and renewed Herodians owe God? The Herodians
nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God knew they owed everything to God.
am a jealous God… (Exod. 20:1-5). by faith in the Messiah. Note how
Paul described renewing our image: Regrettably, this truth was not being
This commandment was first reflected in their lives. After all, here
Put to death, therefore, what is they stood, rejecting the Savior that
for a reason. Without following the
earthly in you: sexual immorality, God had sent to rescue them.
first, one could not obey the second impurity, passion, evil desire, and
or any other command. Much to covetousness, which is idolatry. On Similarly, we accept that everything
their surprise, Jesus exposed the account of these the wrath of God belongs to God, but often do not reflect
Herodians for having broken the first is coming. In these you too once this truth in our lives. How we choose
commandment. Yes, the Herodians walked, when you were living in
to order our life greatly matters. While
had become idolaters. They had them. But now you must put them all
November 2019 | truthmagazine.com 11prioritizing our life is not easy, we Conclusion
must continuously evaluate what is
This encounter with Jesus and David and his family began
most important to our families and laboring with the Fry Road
the Herodians is deep and rich with
us, and sacrifice accordingly. Putting church of Christ in Houston, TX
meaning. It represents a clash between in 2019. The church website is
God and His kingdom first in our lives
the Creator and Caesar—the kingdoms fryroad.org. He can be reached
means using our lives, abilities, and
of this world and the kingdom of at dflatt85@yahoo.com.
possessions to His glory. We are to David Flatt
heaven—a clash in which we are in
use who we are and what we have
the middle. Who will we choose to
to serve the Creator and help others.
worship? Whose image and inscription
Only self-giving love is to characterize
is engraved upon our hearts?
the lives of those who bear the image
of the Creator and bring Him glory.
12 November 2019 | truthmagazine.comDavid and his family began
laboring with the Fry Road
Church of Christ in Houston, TX
in 2019. The church website is
fryroad.org. He can be reached
at dflatt85@yahoo.com.
David Flatt
November 2019 | truthmagazine.com 13Family
Cultivating Diligence
in Our Children
by Daniel Mayberry
Diligence is demanded in the word of God. How do we cultivate this quality in ourselves and our children?
You may have heard the saying, “If stay in that condition, so that we may again, “make every effort to come
a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing ultimately inherit God’s blessings. before winter” (2 Tim. 4:9, 21). If we
well.” The first recorded use of this are making every effort to accomplish
expression was in a letter from Philip What is involved when we talk about an important goal, we will not
Stanhope, Fourth Earl of Chesterfield, diligence? Look at different ways it procrastinate but will respond quickly.
to his son in 1746. He wrote, “In truth, is used in Scripture. To start, it is the
whatever is worth doing at all, is opposite of being lazy. In Hebrews 6, Diligence is connected with
worth doing well; and nothing can the writer encourages Jewish brethren, growth. In 2 Timothy 2:14-15, Paul
be done without attention.” Perhaps some of whom were in danger of admonished Timothy, and by
you were told this at some point returning to Judaism. In verse 11, he extension, all believers, “Be diligent
in your life. Similar thoughts are states, “We desire that each one of to present yourself approved to God
expressed in the Bible. For example, you show the same diligence so as as a workman who does not need
the writer of Ecclesiastes affirmed: to realize the full assurance of hope to be ashamed, accurately handling
until the end, so that you will not be the word of truth.” We must not be
Whatever your hand finds to sluggish, but imitators of those who content with casually reading the
do, do it with all your might; for through faith and patience inherit Bible, but should exert ourselves to
there is no activity or planning or
the promises.” Disciples need to be accurate handling of the word.
knowledge or wisdom in Sheol
where you are going (Eccl. 9:10). diligent not to let go of the perfect
law of Christ. Sluggish is descriptive Applying all diligence, Christians
The term “diligence” is frequently of one who is lazy. Many proverbs should grow in faith, moral excellence,
used in the Scriptures and suggests contrast diligence with laziness. For knowledge, self-control, perseverance,
this idea of making a great effort to example, “The soul of the sluggard godliness, brotherly kindness, and love
accomplish something. It occurs in craves and gets nothing, but the soul of (2 Pet. 1:5-11). Since these qualities
many forms in the New Testament, the diligent is made fat” (Prov. 13:4). must be ours and increasing, diligence
but looking at the verb speudō, it in these areas is not optional. Does our
means “(1) to be in a hurry, hurry, In Luke 15:8, Jesus told a parable parental example show our children
hasten; (b) go in haste; (2) to cause about a woman who possessed ten that this is our most important goal? Do
something to happen or come into coins, but lost one. She swept the we surround them with other faithful
being by exercising special effort; (3) house and searched carefully until she Christians who care about them and
to be very interested in discharging an found it. She showed diligence. We’ve will encourage them to serve God? The
obligation, be zealous, exert oneself, all been in this situation, searching encouragement and positive example
be industrious” (BDAG, 937-938). for something of value that we have of brethren can push our children to
misplaced, like our cell phone or reach deeper in their service to God.
Sacred Scripture associates keys. If the lost object is valuable,
diligence with other desirable qualities. we will search for it with diligence. Diligence should also be seen
In 2 Peter 1:10, the apostle discusses in benevolence. In writing to the
the salvation that his readers enjoy: Diligence communicates the Corinthians, Paul instructed Christians
“Therefore beloved, give all diligence concept of physical haste. When Paul to contribute on the first day of each
to make your calling and election sure.” was imprisoned in Rome, likely facing week to assist the needy saints in
As Christians, we have received the death and knowing that his end was Jerusalem (1 Cor. 16:1-2; 2 Cor. 8:7-8,
gift of salvation. Let us be careful to near, he urged Timothy, saying, “Make 16, 22). The time was getting close
every effort to come to me soon” and when the apostle would come and
14 November 2019 | truthmagazine.comcollect their contribution. Would it followed up by saying, “Behold what
be ready? Did the Corinthians care earnestness this very thing, this godly
deeply about helping their brethren? sorrow, has produced in you” (2 Cor.
They needed to put their promises 7:8-13, esp. v. 11). When we recognize
into practice. Do you know Christians that changes are required, we should
today who, when they see a need, quickly repent. When we make
don’t have to be told, but just act? mistakes as parents, are we diligent
Let’s all have that attitude! Do our in repenting and making whatever
children see us practice benevolence? changes are necessary for our lives?
Are we, as parents, providing our
children with opportunities of helping Finally, faithful Christians will
others who are less fortunate? diligently strive to enter God’s
promised rest (Heb. 4:11). They
Proverbs 4:23 says, “Watch over will labor so as to realize the full
your heart with all diligence, for from assurance of hope to the end (Heb.
it flow the springs of life.” It is critically 6:11). They eagerly anticipate the
important for all disciples, especially coming of God (2 Pet. 3:12) and will
the young, to guard their hearts. This strive to be found in Him in peace,
doesn’t just happen; it requires us to spotless and blameless (2 Pet. 3:14).
turn away from temptations as they
present themselves. We cannot walk We have looked at several areas
blindly through life, but must keep our where we should show diligence.
eyes focused—watching our steps and Further applications can be made
making good choices along the way. from God’s word. The best teachers
May we diligently guard our hearts. for our children are godly parents
who recognize the need for diligence
Moses emphasized the parental in all areas of life. May our lives
responsibility of teaching one’s reflect this quality every day.
children: “These words, which I am
commanding you today, shall be So how do we cultivate diligence
on your heart. You shall teach them in our children? They need to know
diligently to your sons and shall talk what diligence is, see it being
of them when you sit in your house lived out in others, and ultimately
and when you walk by the way and recognize the benefit in exercising
when you lie down and when you diligence themselves.
rise up” (Deut. 6:6-7). Let us abide by Sources
this command. As parents, we have
a limited window of opportunity to BDAG = Bauer, Walter, Frederick W.
teach our children. In a few short Danker, William Arndt and F. Wilbur
years, they will be grown and gone. Gingrich. A Greek-English Lexicon of
This duty cannot take second place the New Testament and Other Early
to entertainment, sports, or even our Christian Literature. 3rd ed. Chicago:
children’s education. Have our children University of Chicago Press, 2000.
witnessed such an effort by their
parents? If so, it will help stress the
importance for them to teach others.
Another critical area where Daniel works for GAF, the leading
we should manifest diligence is roofing manufacturer in North
when repentance is required. Paul America. He also serves as
an elder at the Warfield Blvd
commended the Corinthians for their church of Christ in Clarksville,
swift change. After pointing out the TN. He can be reached at
need for change in his first letter, he Daniel Mayberry danielmayberry@icloud.com.
November 2019 | truthmagazine.com 15Bobby actively
participates in
fill-in preaching,
Belize trips,
teaching an
hour each
Bobby L. Graham day at Athens
Bible School,
and in gospel meeting work. He
and his wife, Karen, have three
children. He can be reached
at bobbylgraham@pclnet.
Someone invited a representative from the Herald of Truth to give us
a presentation on a program they have for personal ministry. The man
had some interesting things to say, but I heard things that gave me
pause. Do you know anything about them and their program?
This question was received recently from a brother in My Letter to the Inquirer:
Christ who now lives in a distant state. I have known him
Hello brother, you asked a question that could require
since he was a small child here in North Alabama. Because
several pages to answer. I will spare you the long answer
I covered the complete nature of a sponsoring church
and give you the short one for now. The Herald of Truth
organization in an earlier column, I will not here include
started many years ago in the early 1950s as a local radio
much of what I then wrote, only my initial response. I
program, later became a nationwide radio program, and still
provided enough in my answer so that he might consider for
later became a television program. Sadly, it served to divide
the present. If he has sufficient concern about this matter,
congregations of the Lord’s people all across the nation.
he will ask more. From that earlier column, I quote here one
paragraph which summarizes what needs to be said: Its divisive nature is because it is a missionary society,
The Catholics, Presbyterians, Methodists, and other another organization besides the local church serving to do
groups have placed their local churches under some the local church’s evangelistic work/preaching the gospel.
central coordinating agency, some to a greater degree In other words, it takes the place of a local church in its
than others. What makes their organizational scheme organization and its function, all the while receiving funds
unscriptural but the sponsoring church scheme scriptural? from local churches all over the country.
In both instances, there is a clear deviation from the New
Testament model of local church operation, oversight, Many congregations, which once supported it, no longer
and autonomy. If one deviation is right, then the others do so because it has increased in its liberalism. It has come
are; if one is wrong, then the others are just as wrong! under the control of very far out, liberal, even progressive
16 November 2019 | truthmagazine.compeople. Their convictions concerning truth and biblical nationwide organization. They make all decisions regarding
authority are quite weak. what to spend, whom to support, what evangelistic efforts
to make, etc. As you surely can see, this is not consistent
I will cite two passages showing that the Herald of Truth with New Testament teaching. There is no New Testament
cannot function scripturally. Acts 20:28 instructs elders to authority for such a scheme as this. If you can find this
tend the flock of God among them. 1 Peter 5:4 also tells authority, you’re reading a different Bible than I am.
elders to do the same thing. The set up of this organization
is people who are not local elders tending to the work of Brother, I urge you to take a stand against this. If the
other local churches (those who send the money). All that congregation will not stand for the truth and insists on
the local elders in the sending churches are doing in this spending funds on such unauthorized works and you cannot
particular endeavor is overseeing the money before it is sent. convince them to change, then you need to leave and find a
After it arrives in Abilene, its oversight changes from elders congregation where you can conscientiously participate in
in sending churches to whatever staff are set up over this full fellowship with the work that is being done.
November 2019 | truthmagazine.com 17Archaeology
Haran, Home of the Patriarchs
by Leon Mauldin
Let us look at the Haran of the patriarchs and note its importance in the Genesis account of the history of Abraham,
Isaac, Jacob, and the sons of Israel.
Haran was located in upper (Gen. 11:31; “settled,” Acts 7:4, NASB; (Gen. 24:3). He made his faithful
Mesopotamia and occupied an spelled “Charran,” KJV). Abraham’s servant swear to this, and that he “go
important role in the history of father, Terah, died in Haran (v. 32). to my country and to my kindred, and
the patriarchs. By faith (Heb. 11:8), take a wife for my son Isaac” (v. 4). “And
Abraham (still called Abram) left Ur When Abraham was seventy-five he arose and went to Mesopotamia,
of the Chaldeans, with extended years old, he obediently departed to the city of Nahor” (v. 10).
family traveling with him. Haran was from Haran (Gen. 12:4), leaving his
not just a stopping place along the family behind. Years passed. When the Although there was a city called
journey to Canaan; instead, “they time came for Isaac to be wed, it was Nahor, which was near Haran, the
came to Haran and dwelt there” important to Abraham that his son not phrase here more likely means
marry one of the pagan Canaanites “the home of Nahor,” i.e., Haran
18 November 2019 | truthmagazine.com(cf. Wenham in WBC). God granted this was no problem: he could also Sin, which brings to mind Joshua’s
Abraham’s servant success, showing marry Rachel (after waiting one week reference to “the gods your fathers
him that, indeed, Rebekah (daughter in deference to Leah), and then work worshiped beyond the Euphrates
of Bethuel, son of Nahor, brother to seven more years for her. He did so, River” (Josh. 24:15, HCSB).
Abraham, Gen. 22:20-23) was to be laboring six more for wages. Only then
the wife of Isaac. The family said, did he return to Canaan (Gen. 28-31). Sources
“We will call the young woman and HCSB = The Holy Bible: Holman Christian
ask her personally.” Then they called The site of Haran has geographical
Standard Version. Nashville: Holman
Rebekah and said to her, “Will you and historical significance. The
Bible Publishers, 2009.
go with this man?” And she said, “I name Haran means “highway,”
will go” (Gen. 24:56-57). Afterward, and was strategically “situated on NIV Archaeological Study Bible: An
Isaac “took Rebekah and she became the historic east-west trade route Illustrated Walk through Biblical
his wife, and he loved her” (v. 67). that linked the Tigris River with the History and Culture. Grand Rapids:
Mediterranean Sea,” and was “one of Zondervan, 2005.
Haran factors a third time in northern Mesopotamia’s important
patriarchal history. Rebekah told commercial and religious centers, Wenham, Gordon J. Word Biblical
her son Jacob to “flee to my brother widely known for its dedicated Commentary: Genesis 16–50, Vol. 2.
Laban in Haran” (Gen. 27:43), ironically worship of the moon god, Sin” (NIV Dallas: Word, Incorporated, 1994.
thinking this would only be “a few Archaeological Study Bible, 47).
days” (v. 44). It turned out to be Leon has worked with the
twenty years! He worked seven years The photos included here show
Hanceville church of Christ in
ostensibly for marriage to Laban’s the bee-hived structures that served Hanceville, AL for twenty-nine
daughter, Rachel. Yet, the morning after as housing in Haran. These are said to years. He and his wife, Linda,
the wedding, Jacob discovered, to his be about 200 years old, but are built have three children and eight
grandchildren. His websites
great dismay, that he was married to like those in the time of Abraham. Also are leonmauldin.blog and
Leon Mauldin
her sister, Leah. Laban assured him pictured is the temple site associated mauldinbiblelandtours.com.
with the worship of the Moon god He can be reached at leon.mauldin@gmail.com.
November 2019 | truthmagazine.com 19Archaeology 01_ Author - of article 02_Author - of article 03_Sypnosis -of article 20 November 2019 | truthmagazine.com
Barry Britnell is the founder
of Exploring Bible Lands, LLC
(exploringbiblelands.com)
and leads Bible study tours
to the land of Israel. He also
works with Appian Media
Barry Britnell (appianmedia.org) to produce
Biblically-sound videos used
in teaching others about the Bible. Barry and his
wife, Tabatha, have three children, live in Athens, AL,
and worship with the Capshaw church of Christ.
November 2019 | truthmagazine.com 21The Internet Generation
Social Un-Networking
by Zachery Henry
Since the dawn of time, man’s chosen means of communication have consisted of words, letters, and signs. We still use
these same forms of communication to convey our thoughts and messages, albeit with very different tools.
In our technologically advanced Bringing the World It Feels Good to Be Liked
world, billions of people now have Closer Together In a June 2019 article in Psychology
access to social media platforms.
On June 22, 2017, Facebook CEO Today, psychologist Loren Soeiro,
Only a little more than a decade
Mark Zuckerberg posted a note Ph.D., writes, “More time spent on
ago, this term would have failed to
entitled, “Bringing the World Closer the most commonly used social
register with most people; however,
Together,” in which he states the “most networks correlates to higher feelings
fast forward to 2019, and social
important thing” the social media giant of loneliness and isolation.” Citing
media platforms like YouTube,
can do is “bring people closer together.” additional independent studies, Soeiro
Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram,
Zuckerberg wrote at the time that maintains that “higher social media use
have become household names.
he would “change Facebook’s whole is associated with higher anxiety” and
Social media platforms are mission” to ensure that it happened. “the ability to feel good about oneself—
convenient tools for communicating to have healthy self-esteem—may be
with our friends, co-workers, and Upon reading this statement, I compromised by social media use.”
relatives. Yet, few realize that these recall thinking how odd it seemed
that the CEO of a significant social Another study of teens ages thirteen
“networking” sites present a significant
media platform would say such a to eighteen, commissioned by the
risk to our health, our relationships,
thing, especially considering that UCLA Brain Mapping Center, found
and our spiritual well-being.
Facebook’s original mission statement that receiving a high number of “likes”
As of 2018, the average daily was “to give people the power to on photos showed increased activity
social media usage of internet users share and make the world more open in the reward center of the brain. The
worldwide amounted to 136 minutes and connected.” One has to ask: If study also reported young adults
per day, according to Statista.com. the largest social media platform’s were influenced to “like” images,
Just imagine what we could instead corporate mission for more than a regardless of content, based on high
be doing with those two hours. Time decade was to “make the world more numbers of “likes.” Psychologist
spent online is oft disconnected open and connected,” why would it Katie Hurley may have put it best
from the happenings of real-life. have to change its defined mission when she astutely observed: “It
to “bring people closer together?” feels good to be ‘liked’ and ‘herd
Please don’t misunderstand: There’s mentality’ is big on social media.
nothing wrong with expanding your It’s evident—even to the founders Like what others like and you’re in.”
network. Soliciting career advice from of these social media platforms—that
industry leaders, reconnecting with old their products contain a serious flaw. Consider the rhetorical questions
friends, and reading life updates from While there are significant advantages posed by Paul to the churches of
a family member are all good things. and benefits to connecting with Galatia: “For am I now seeking the
anybody, anywhere in the world, there approval of man, or of God? Or am
This is not where the danger lies. I trying to please man? If I were still
is also a staggering drawback when this
Instead, the risk is in how we interact trying to please man, I would not
becomes mainstream practice—our
with others on these social media be a servant of Christ” (Gal. 1:10).
personal, daily connections suffer.
platforms, and the amount of time
we spend developing social media Our goal in life should not be
connections, rather than investing that to accumulate the most “likes” or
time in building “real connections.” have the most Facebook “friends.” It
22 November 2019 | truthmagazine.comshould be to fear God and follow His on what really matters, and our Sources
commandments (Eccl. 12:13). Instead spiritual lives suffer as a result.
“Global Time Spent on Social Media
of chasing the praise of men, we should
Christians who purposely walk Daily 2018.” Statista. January
be seeking the approval of our Lord.
headlong into debates or arguments 2019. https://www.statista.com/
The time and energy that we should remember and heed the statistics/433871/daily-social-media-
spend on social media can often admonishment of James: “Let usage-worldwide.
be better spent elsewhere. Along every person be quick to hear, slow
Hurley, Katie. “Social Media and
with avoiding contentious online to speak, slow to anger; for the
Teens: How Does Social Media Affect
arguments, this could lead to improved anger of man does not produce the
Teenagers’ Mental Health.” Psycom.
mental health, happier lives, and righteousness of God” (Jas. 1:19-20).
March 7, 2019. https://www.psycom.
stronger personal relationships.
Face to Face net/social-media-teen-mental-health.
Ignorant Controversies Consider the words of Paul: Soeiro, Loren. Ph.D. “Is Social Media Bad
Because today’s news travels fast, “Therefore watch carefully how you for You?” Psychology Today. June 21,
we are constantly bombarded with walk, not as unwise, but as wise; 2019. https://www.psychologytoday.
stories that provoke an emotional redeeming the time, because the com/us/blog/i-hear-you/201906/is-
response. It is tempting to turn to the days are evil” (Eph. 5:15-16). Are we social-media-bad-you.
platforms at our fingertips and opine better off spending hours following
on “breaking news.” Disregarding other people’s lives and engaging in Zuckerberg, Mark. “Bringing the World
the importance of the news itself, it fruitless debates on social media, or Closer Together.” Facebook. June
seems significant to us at the time, investing effort in fostering personal 22, 2017. https://www.facebook.
and so we feel obligated to share our relationships with those around us and com/notes/mark-zuckerberg/
thoughts with the world. Humans focusing on sharing the gospel with bringing-the-world-closer-
love to receive praise and validation strangers? The answer is obvious. together/10154944663901634.
from others—and what better place Zachery worships at the
to spout off our opinion than a Social media is an incredible tool.
Monte Vista church of Christ
platform that offers a global pulpit? It allows us to stay connected with in Phoenix, AZ and serves as
fellow Christians whom we may go the Communications Director
It’s a pattern we’ve seen time and long periods without seeing, it lets for the Arizona Republican
Party. He can be reached at
time again: A person receives critical us share our faith with non-believers zacheryhenry1@gmail.com.
Zachery Henry
feedback from someone who doesn’t with the click of a button, and it
share their opinion, leading to a provides an ever-increasing audience
debate between both parties, where to whom we can reach out and teach
each morph into “keyboard warriors,” from the comfort of our living room.
squabbling over whose opinion is
right. If the two parties aren’t careful, Nevertheless, let’s not forget the
the debate can quickly spiral out of feelings John expressed when he
control, and before you know it, what wrote to the church: “Though I have
began as a difference of opinion can much to write to you, I would rather
become a heated and contentious not use paper and ink. Instead, I hope
argument. It is even worse when to come to you and talk face to face,
this occurs between Christians. so that our joy may be complete”
(2 John 12). Nothing can replace
The apostle Paul instructed seeing and speaking with someone
Timothy to avoid “foolish, ignorant in person. There is no substitute for
controversies” because “they taking time out of one’s day to stop
breed quarrels” (2 Tim. 2:23). As and ask a friend or relative how they
Christians, our attention should be are doing. The genuineness of such
on pursuing spiritual things. If we an act can’t be replicated any other
become distracted by the trivialities way. Let’s look for more opportunities
of this world, we cease to focus to talk face to face. It’s worth it.
November 2019 | truthmagazine.com 23The Internet Generation
Virtual vs. Real Relationships
by Bruce Reeves
In an age of easy communication and constant connectivity, one must ask, “Whatever happened to real relationships?”
The Genesis account vividly who serve as an integral part of our on a regular basis. Early Christians
describes God’s divine purpose in fellowship. However, just the other relied on each other for encouragement
the creation of humanity: “Then God day, we had a new college student who and edification in a very personal
said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, began to attend with us. When asked and uplifting way (Acts 2:42-47; 4:32).
according to Our likeness…’ God about his plans to attend all of the Our worship is optimally experienced
created man in His own image, in the worship services, he told one of our when we are personally present with
image of God He created him; male elders that he would just watch online our brothers and sisters in the Lord,
and female He created them” (Gen. from his dorm room during the other jointly offering adoration to God (1
1:26-27). Among the attributes that we times of services. The elder responded, Cor. 14:23-26). The worship assembly
share with our Creator is relationality. “You mean you do not want to be is not merely a spectator sport, but
The Godhead reveals that the Father, with us on Sunday and Wednesday joins us with one another and leads to
Son, and Holy Spirit have enjoyed evenings?” The young man replied, spiritual interaction with our God as we
divine fellowship eternally (John “Come on! It’s the twenty-first century.” meet Him at His word (1 Thess. 2:13).
1:1-3; 17:24; Heb. 1:1-3). Humanity Moreover, we partake of the Lord’s
has been created to glorify God, not This is disturbing on several levels, Supper each first day of the week in
only in sharing a relationship with our especially as we consider the true the assembly of the saints (Acts 20:7; 1
heavenly Father (Eccl. 12:13-14; Matt. nature of relationships, connections, Cor. 11:23-26). There is power in God’s
6:9-13; Eph. 3:15) but also through sharing, and fellowship. Reflect upon people praying together (Acts 12:5;
our fellowship with one another the function and blessings of being 1 Tim. 2:1-3). The Scriptures refer to
(John 13:34-35; 1 John 1:1-4). These a part of a local congregation that believers “speaking to one another
truths are as vital and significant is committed to Christ. First, we are in psalms and hymns and spiritual
today as they have ever been! thankful for godly shepherds who songs, singing and making melody”
“keep watch” over our souls and care with our hearts to the Lord (Eph. 5:19).
We live in the “Internet Generation,” for the believers who are among them
or “I-Gen,” as some express it. Thanks (Heb. 13:17). These men strive to set All these concepts speak of
to modern technology, there are many a faithful example for those whom reciprocal action. We are to hold
benefits and even opportunities to they oversee (1 Pet. 5:1-4). How is one another accountable in real
connect with friends and share the this possible if we remove ourselves relationships to encourage true
gospel of Christ. Few people today from actual relationships with our spiritual growth. My mother passed
operate “off the grid.” Yet, for all the spiritual shepherds? Paul writes, “But away a couple of years ago with a rare
blessings that instant communication we request of you, brethren, that terminal disease. One of the difficult
has brought to us, there are plenty of you appreciate those who diligently aspects of her illness was that she
pitfalls of which we must be cautious. labor among you, and have charge could not assemble with the saints.
over you in the Lord and give you She enjoyed hearing sermons and
Is “Virtual Church” Really instruction, and that you esteem the singing through our website,
the Same As Being There? them very highly in love because but had you asked her whether she
I have been blessed to preach for the of their work. Live in peace with preferred being with her brethren in
Highway 65 church of Christ in Conway, one another” (1 Thess. 5:12-13). the assembly or watching online—the
Arkansas for twenty years. We have had answer would have been obvious.
Consider also the relationship we
the privilege of working with many very are to share with our fellow-believers
zealous and convicted young Christians
24 November 2019 | truthmagazine.comYou can also read
