Author Archives: Gary Davenport

As we came into the year and began our series of lessons on Culture and its Influence Upon the Church, I wasn’t quite sure how I was going to end the series. I wanted to be realistic, practical, and relevant throughout the series of lessons but end on a positive note.

I’ve decided to borrow some words from Howard Norton, to accomplish that task. We must begin by taking a look back to the date: January 1, 1901. What would a speaker on that date say as he tried to prepare his congregation for the coming century:

We must begin by taking a look back to the date: January 1, 1901. What would a speaker on that date say as he tried to prepare his congregation for the coming century:

• “theory of relativity” (1905) observations of an obscure patent clerk in Zurick, Switzerland named Albert Einstein?
• World War 1? Rise and fall of communism?
• Wealth and decadence of the 1920’s?
• Depression of the 40’s? World War II? Adolph Hitler? Halocaust?
• Korean War? Vietnam War? Generational strife of the 60’s?
• AIDS? Man walking on the moon? Computers? Internet?
• The change cars and TV had on our society?

You realize, as I do, that it would have been impossible for any speaker to talk of any of these events because they were simply “impossible” when the century began!

It’s no different now as we move to the end of the century (Dec. 31, 2000) and truly begin a new century (Jan. 1, 2001).

We want to go back to some principles: Not what but HOW they reacted to troublesome events of their lives…we have a long list of people who lived during many of those dreadful events and are now faithful Christians…they lived in the midst of the conditions and couldn’t change the circumstances but were able to decide how they would live under those circumstances.

What is it that will help us live faithful at all times under any circumstances?

2 Timothy 1:7: “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.”

It’s not what might happen in the next few years but how we deal with what happens; not so much what comes “at us” but the gifts God gives us to deal with those circumstances.

Context of verse 7:

• Paul’s time and circumstances would not excite any of us
• this was his 2^nd Roman emprisonment…A.D. 66-67 and Nero “had all the power” (he thought)
• In a dungeon….cold….dark…in chains
• Paul gives us a glimpse of what he thinks is happening to him: 2 Timothy 4:6: “For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure.”

• I am the sacrifice….optimistic: 2 Timothy 4:18: “The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”

When we experience terrible times as Christians, we need to look at his attitude and actions:

2 Timothy 1:6: “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.”

Many times when it would be much easier to crawl under the bed than to do the things needed for God….we must display this kind of attitude!

Timothy was likely being tempted to be less than he ought to be for God:

2 Timothy 1:8-9a: “So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, {9a} who has saved us and called us to a holy life–not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace…”

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity. The word translated timidity could also have been translated cowardice. There is never a time to run and hide! Then and now!

Think of the people who have been in the midst of difficulties and cried out for courage…how great is their influence!

Winston Churchill’s first speech, speaking to the House of Commons on May 13, 1940, challenging the people of England to rise up and defend the free world: “I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat (and it didn’t discourage England—it inspired England! They braced themselves for the battle).

June 4, 1940: “We shall not flag or fail…we shall go on to the end…we shall fight in France…we shall fight on the seas and oceans…we shall fight with growing confidence, gaining strength in the air…we shall defend our island…whatever the cost may be, we shall fight on the beaches…we shall fight on the landing grounds…we shall fight in the fields and in the streets…we shall fight in the hills…we shall never surrender.” (and England listened because they understood the danger he personally was in because of his statements).

That’s what Paul is saying to Timothy: Paul, a prisoner in chains…drink offering…Be what you can be…not timid…not cowards.

I have been repulsed by the negative, fear-inducing talk that was part of this country as we approached the year 2000. Dooms day predictions! God’s left us alone! So much nonsense.

It really doesn’t matter what happens in coming years if we’ll remember what God has done and is doing for us! God didn’t give us a spirit of timidity!

Crouching and cowering never comes from God. God gives us a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

J.C. Bailey, missionary to several areas of our world. In Canada, many years ago, a woman came wanting to be baptized…word came that her husband would kill him if he baptized his wife…went to the river and husband was there with a rifle…J. C. Bailey walked to the edge of the water, took the arm of the man’s wife…led her into the water and baptized her…what if he’d been killed? What a waste…some would think?

Paul’s statement applies:

2 Timothy 4:18: “The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”

I am thankful for all those who live their life “out from under the bed.”

Ephesians 3:14-21: “For this reason I kneel before the Father, {15} from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. {16} I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, {17} so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, {18} may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, {19} and to know this love that surpasses knowledge–that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. {20} Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, {21} to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”

We don’t know what the future holds—God can give us and our children a spirit of courage, love, power, and self-control. That will enable us to grow and thrive in this life and in the years and decades to come!

Life may be tough but will never become overwhelming!

“SHINING AS LIGHTS IN THE WORLD” In The Midst Of A Crooked And Perverse Generation (Ph 2:12-16)

A grave concern to any thoughtful Christian is how quickly our society is changing, and clearly for the worse. As some theologians would describe it, we now live in a “post-Christian culture. ” This simply means that the old norms once held true are no longer accepted by the majority. How are Christians to react to this change in our society? What can we do to change the direction in which our society is heading?

Should we form “political action committees” and try to change it using the organizational powers of the church? Should we resort to boycotts, picketing, or other forms of “economic blackmail”? Should we resort to violence, both verbal and physical, if necessary? What can we do to protect ourselves, and our children?

Should we simply change our views to conform to those of society? Should we isolate ourselves, or form communes?

I believe that the Scriptures provide the correct answer, in a letter written by Paul to a church which, like many others in New Testament times, lived in a “PRE-Christian culture.” The letter is the Epistle to the Philippians.

Written to Christians living in city heavily influenced by the Roman culture, with its paganism, intellectualism, and immorality. What Paul wrote to them, is very likely the sort of things he would write today.

Especially the things mentioned in Philippians 2:12-16: “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed–not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence–continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, {13} for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. {14} Do everything without complaining or arguing, {15} so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe {16} as you hold out the word of life–in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing.”

Providing directions, hope, and warnings which will help us to “shine as lights in the world”

I. BY WORKING OUT OUR OWN SALVATION FIRST! (12a)

AS JESUS PUT IT, “FIRST REMOVE THE PLANK FROM YOUR OWN EYE” – Matt. 7:1-6: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. {2} For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. {3} “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? {4} How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? {5} You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye. {6} “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.”

IF WE ARE NOT CAREFUL, WE MAY LOSE OUR SALVATION IN THE WAY WE REACT TO OTHERS! Many people go about trying to change society for the better, using methods that will keep themselves out of the kingdom of God!

II. WITH “FEAR AND TREMBLING” (12b)

THE WORD “FEAR” IN CONNECTION WITH GOD IS NOT POPULAR TODAY… perhaps a reaction to the “hell, fire and brimstone” preaching of another generation. But could it be that we have gone to the other extreme? Have we diluted the concept of the “fear of the Lord” by our definitions?

III. BY LETTING GOD WORK IN US (13) TO SUCCEED AS “LIGHTS IN THE WORLD”…It will be essential to let God do His work, something He is able to do beyond our ability to comprehend – Ep 3:20-21. He is there “working in you”! – cf. Ph 1:6. How? Both…

a. To “will” – helping us in our motivation

b. To “do” – helping us in our ability

BUT IF WE ARE NOT CAREFUL, WE CAN EASILY…Quench God’s efforts to work in us or prevent God from using us altogether (at least for doing things for our own good)!

IV. WITHOUT MURMURING AND DISPUTING (14)

BY MAINTAINING A POSITIVE ATTITUDE…Living in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation can easily get us down, where we can become constant complainers. But allowing that to happen will render us less effective and as with Israel, “murmuring” can lead to our own downfall 1 Cor. 10:10-12

BY GETTING ALONG WITH YOUR BRETHREN…

Unity among brethren is extremely important as we try to convince the world concerning Jesus – Jn 17:20-23. Disputing with one another simply reveals we have some growing up to do! – 1 Cor 3:1-4. If the “body of Christ” is going to influence the world the way it should, it cannot be devouring itself through such destructive forces like “murmuring” and “disputing” among themselves.

V. AS CHILDREN OF GOD WITHOUT FAULT (15) WHICH REQUIRES US TO BECOME “BLAMELESS”…not that we are perfect, but like elders are to be blameless, we are to be “above reproach.” We may be sinners, but we quickly confess our sins and make amends when it is called for we should live in such a way that we have no “outstanding faults” that are clearly evident to others. Nothing hinders our ability to “shine as lights” like inconsistency and hypocrisy, especially that which is evident to all!

IT ALSO REQUIRES US TO BE “HARMLESS”…

Though we may firmly oppose sin in all forms, sinners should never fear bodily harm from us! – again cf. 2 Ti 2:24-26. Sadly, many so-called “Christians” appear to be using “Old Covenant” methods in their efforts to change others, and come across as likely to produce great bodily harm! Jesus said, we are to be “wise as serpents and harmless as doves” – Matt. 10:16

VI. HOLDING FAST THE WORD OF LIFE (16)

REMEMBER, THE WORD OF GOD IS THE “SWORD OF THE SPIRIT”! It is the ONLY “offensive weapon” we have in the armor of God Eph. 6:10-17. It is the instrument by which the Spirit convicts the world of sin, produces repentance and brings about the new birth – James 1:18; 1 Peter 1:23; Rom. 1:16. Thus it is truly the “word of life”!

Check out this great series by David Chadwell

Culture and the Church: Sexual Perceptions (The X-Rated Series) by David Chadwell

On the first Pentecost following the resurrection of the Lord, the church exploded into existence.

Under the supernatural influence of the Holy Spirit, the apostles, for the very first time, proclaimed the full facts of the gospel message—namely, that Jesus of Nazareth had been crucified and buried, but that he had been raised from the dead and was now in heaven.

When the Jews who were assembled on that auspicious occasion heard these glad tidings, they exclaimed: “What shall we do?”, expressing an interest in obtaining pardon for their complicity in the death of the Messiah. The inspired response was: “Repent and be baptized, everyone of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:38).

We are subsequently informed that those who happily embraced the apostolic message were immersed, and “there were added in that day about three thousand souls” (2:41). Since the Greek text is a bit ambiguous here, it cannot be affirmed absolutely that the entire 3,000 were immersed that day. It is possible that this total included those who had been baptized earlier by John the Baptist and the Lord’s disciples (cf. Mt. 3:5; Mk.1:4; Jn 4:1-2).

Be that as it may, the church was off to a roaring start. In fact, the body of the saved grew “day by day” (2:47). Within a very short time, the number of men alone was about 5,000 (Acts 4:4). It is a thrilling exercise to trace the amazing growth of the primitive church as that expansion is revealed in the book of Acts. It has been estimated that by the end of the second century A.D., those who professed Christianity in the Roman empire numbered some 60 million souls (Hurlbut, 68). Whether many of these were genuine Christians might be questioned. Nevertheless, it is beyond dispute that the early church experienced a phenomenal growth.

As one reflects upon the rapid spread of the gospel in the apostolic era and compares that excitement with the almost snail-like pace of the current church (at least as it is in America), one is bound to wonder: “What are we doing wrong?” “Why isn’t Christianity growing today as it did in the 1st century?” We fervently long to see the church dramatically expand today. What on earth can we do to remedy this situation?

It is at this point that a certain disposition develops in some—that almost borders on panic. We are so desperate to see the church move forward with great momentum that we become vulnerable to high pressure tactics and bizarre methods of evangelism; methods that actually do not effect genuine church growth. They are, in fact, harmful. Ultimately they leave us disillusioned and in a state of disarray. Perhaps it would not be inappropriate to illustrate this point with a couple of current examples.

Modern Examples of Church Growth Gimmickry

Several years ago, a number of congregations that sensed a greater need for evangelistic fervor became enchanted with a fad commonly known as the “Crossroads Movement.” Without going into detail (there is much good literature available which analyzes the system), it is sufficient to note that this movement boasted of a tremendous number of conversions, which naturally made it appealing.

What many failed to recognize, however, was that this concept was a humanly devised bondage system of regimented church growth which robbed its devotees of both personal and evangelistic liberty in a number of ways. In many respects it was similar to the Watchtower system in its methodology. Its destructive thrust is clearly revealed in the fruit it has produced—scores of churches were left in a state of shambles! This is a terrible price to pay for misguided zeal.

Another ideology in vogue these days is the “ministering-to-the-whole-man” concept. It is really the subtle notion that the gospel is not intriguing enough to capture the honest person’s attention. We need more—some new angle—to elicit public interest. Hence, some churches are implementing multifaceted programs which provide a variety of community services. One can read of churches offering aerobic exercise classes, weight-loss clinics, art sessions, community movies, sports activities, odd entertainment, such as “Quack, quack” theology, etc. Such programs are designed to serve as “bait” for the gospel.

There are two observations that can be made concerning such matters. First, there is not the remotest indication that the original disciples, under the leadership of inspired teachers, resorted to this type of gimmickry in an attempt to facilitate the spread of Christ’s message.
Second, it has become painfully apparent that the “gospel” these groups are preaching is but a thin veneer of solid truth. Considerable sound doctrine has been filtered out, and a new denomination is being evolved. Some of these brethren obviously mean well, but their biblical ignorance is rendering a great disservice to the cause of Christ.

What Is the Solution to Church Growth?

What, then, is the solution to our growth problems? There is, of course, no single, simple answer. We believe, however, that the matter can be partially addressed as follows.

First, there is certainly no denying the fact that we have fallen far short of the “evangelistic zeal” that we should have. As a general rule, there is precious little emphasis upon “learning and teaching” the Word of God. Many Christians are not even slightly burdened about proclaiming the saving word—either at home or abroad. We “clock in” and “clock out” on the Lord’s day, and our religion is mostly on the shelf at other times. We are not kindly militant in challenging the errors (pagan or sectarian) of those around us. We have snuggled down with a comfortable Christianity. We absolutely must work more diligently to correct this evil in the kingdom of Christ. We must rekindle a passion for the lost!

Second, the idea has been advocated in some sectors that God will not hold accountable those who are never exposed to the gospel. Allegedly, they will be judged simply by whatever “light” they possess. It hardly seems necessary to observe that such a concept is totally at variance with the New Testament, and it can do nothing but retard church growth. Nevertheless, it has made an impact upon the thinking of some.

Third, a disposition that is sympathetic to sectarianism has invaded the mentality of many church members in recent years. Some are just not sure whether people outside the church are lost or not—provided they are at least nominally “religious.” The notion that “there are Christians in all churches” has become rather common due to the influence of several leading preachers. When this type of attitude sets in, the spirit of evangelism dies.

We would not, therefore, excuse the apathy of the modern church. We can do better at winning those who are estranged from the Creator; and we must!

That aside, however, we absolutely must recognize that there will never be another Pentecost! We should be aware of the fact that the unique conditions which existed at the time of the church’s birth will never be duplicated. It is highly unlikely that the body of Christ will ever again experience the rapid growth rate which the early Christians witnessed. This is not resigned fatalism; it is informed realism. Please consider the following factors.

The Explosion of First Century Church Growth

God’s system of redemption, so gloriously made manifest on the day of Pentecost, had been in the planning since the dawn of creation. With Genesis, the protevangelium (first gospel) [cf. 3:15] was announced. Thereafter, by means of Jehovah’s direct activity, providential intervention, gradually unfolding revelation (prophecy, typology), etc., the world was carefully cultivated for the coming of the Savior. Paul notes that “when the fulness of time came, God sent forth his Son” (Gal. 4:4). That suggests there was a precise chronology designed to insure the successful inauguration of the Christian movement.

Jesus acknowledged the divine schedule of events by His frequent references to “mine hour is not yet come” (Jn. 2:4; etc.), and similar expressions. The point is, there was never a time in the history of the world when humanity was as ripe for the gospel harvest as that era into which the church was born. Those exact ideal conditions simply do not exist today.

Second, the church came forth in an age of the supernatural. Surely it will be conceded that the miracles of the first century, which attracted vast multitudes, created more immediate and dramatic interest than the written Word does today. This is not to minimize the power of the Scriptures in any way; it does, though, recognize the nature of human beings.

Third, it should be noted that the gospel’s reception can greatly vary from time to time, and from place to place, depending upon societal conditions. For instance, there is clearly a greater inclination to accept religious values when times are “hard” as opposed to economically prosperous periods.

This is repeatedly illustrated in the history of Israel. In eras of great ease, the people waxed fat and ignored God. In times of rigor, the tendency was to look upward for divine assistance. This has been illustrated even in our own nation. The church probably grew more vigorously back in the depression era of the 1930s than at any time since.

Too, even today, reception of the gospel seems to be much more accelerated in countries like India and Africa than in wealthy America. Social and economic factors can either facilitate or hinder the acceptance of the gospel. There is a contrast between the generally impoverished first century Mediterranean world, and the sleek, sassy environment of modern America.

What then are we saying? Merely this—let us be evangelistically militant, but let us also be realistic. Let us have confidence in the power of the Word, hence, sow the seed as richly and abundantly as we are able. But let us remember that, “God gives the increase” (1 Cor.3:7). Let us not become so frustrated (because we are not getting sensational results) that we resort to cheap techniques which do nothing but detract from the pristine beauty of the gospel message.

References

Hurlbut, Jesse Lyman. The Story of the Christian Church. Philadelphia: John C. Winston Co.

Thank you for your positive response to articles given to aid in providing solutions in our homes. This is part two of our guidance on obedience.

Start teaching obedience early. It is important that parents of youngsters 5-6 months old learn that children have different ‘cries.’ Some are there because they are wet, hungry, sleepy, frightened, or in pain. At other times, they are angry and will let their tempers show by stiffening, turning red in the face, and screaming with a loud cry. It is during these little displays of frustration that those parents who are ‘winners’ must give them a slight shake or a firm swat to register your disapproval.

 The first word a child must learn is “no!” It usually begins occurring when they are 6-7 months old and is vital because you must teach them that objects are dangerous and that your no is for their protection.
Another early lesson: “come to mother” are also important words that save lives and thousands of steps over the years. When the time comes (and it will) that the toddler begins to run, this is a time when your discipline comes into play and you must win this little confrontation. If you don’t win when they are little, you will not win when they become bigger. Remember, what might be viewed as “cute” by some is rebellion, pure and simple, if they have heard the facts and choose to do something else!

Conquer your child’s will and do it early. “In order to form the minds of children, the first thing to be done is to conquer their wills and bring them to an obedient temper.” Wise words? At some point, your child is going to match his will against yours….you better win! And you must not allow the temper tantrum to win, either. The majority of mothers have thrown in the towel, given up, saying “this isn’t working.” I am thankful that some follow the Lord’s words and won’t allow the child to dictate the facts to her.

Spanking is an event….steps to an event:

• Get a rod.
• Take the child to a private place. The goal is to teach, not embarrass. His self-esteem is also being molded.
• Express disapproval of the action. Say “I love you too much to allow this kind of behavior. This is to help you remember not to let it happen again.”
• Let them ‘feel your disapproval.’ Give them 30-45 seconds of your silence to feel your disapproval before moving on.
• Administer the rod thoroughly on the bottom or legs.
• Take the child back to finish your spoken words. Never drop the subject or switch until the child yields to whatever you asked them to do.
• After sufficient time has elapsed and your child has a yielding spirit, take him into your arms and communicate your love. Taking a child into your arms to quickly leaves him with the idea that you feel you were wrong instead of him.
• Forgive the transgression (that means forget and bring up no more) and go on with living.  

The switch also sweetens sour attitudes. With any age child, you may have to watch the attitude. They may yield in body to your requests, but express sarcasm and disrespect with a nasty attitude. They may slouch around, pout, slam doors, kick the cat, or go into seclusion for an excessive amount of time. Don’t put up with this kind of attitude. There is nothing that will sweeten a sour attitude faster than your actions.

Use the rod in the same manner when your child refuses to obey a physical request. A final word about excessive crying: you know the proper time needed to recover from the punishment…it’s OK to say “you hush that crying right now or I’ll give you something else to cry about.”

Trouble With Junior — Junior bit the meter man; Junior kicked the cook. Junior’s anti-social now — (according to the book); Junior smashed the clock and lamp, Junior hacked the tree. (Destructive trends are treated In chapters two and three!)  Junior threw the milk at Mom. Junior screamed for more. (Notes on self-assertiveness. Are found in chapter four.)  Junior tossed his shoes and socks Out into the rain. (Negation, that, and normal — Disregard the same.)  Junior set Dad’s shirt afire, Salted Grandpop’s tea; (That’s to gain attention, see p. 163). Grandpop seized a rod, Yanked Junior across his knee! (Grandpop hasn’t read a book Since 1893).

(Condensed from Harmony Among the Heirs of Heaven, by Dan Winkler)

In recent months, several natural and unnatural calamities have struck our country and community. Terrorists destroy buildings and lives; planes fall from the sky; evil people have given ‘hate mail’ a new meaning. Periodically, hurricanes ‘huff, and puff, and blow our East Coast houses down,’ and earthquakes ‘shake, rattle, and roll’ our West Coast structures. A little closer to home, fires often destroy neighborhood houses, storms ‘leave us in the dark,’ and auto accidents injure those we know.

Usually, upon finding out that no one was injured, we immediately ask, ‘Were they covered?’ We are interested in whether victims had insurance and sympathize the more with those who did not. It multiplies the sorrow of misfortune if there is no ‘starting over’ check.

Insurance companies provide a valuable service and most of us have been wisely counseled by informed agents. They always advise people to ‘take out some coverage-you never know when you might need it.’  Though we do not like to pay the premiums, most of us realize that the potential benefits are worth the price to be ‘covered.’ We often advise our children to take out a policy ‘just in case.’

There is a spiritual angle to the ‘insurance business.’

GOD IS IN THE INSURANCE BUSINESS.

There is a sense in which God is in the insurance business. He promised Moses that He would ‘cover’ him as He passed by (Ex. 33:22), and Moses promised the tribe of Benjamin, ‘…the Lord shall cover him all the day long, and he shall dwell between his shoulders’ (Deut. 33:12). In a beautiful word picture, the Psalmist describes God’s protection:  ‘Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler’ (Psa. 91:3, 4).

From His vantage point, God can see an impending disaster worse than any hurricane or earthquake. It will not destroy just one house, or even town-but the whole earth (2 Pet. 3:10). It will not involve only a few hundred or thousand people, but all the people of the whole earth (2 Cor. 5:10). God is providing coverage for those willing to ‘pay the premiums.’ Jesus put it this way:

For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace. So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple (Lk. 14:28-33).

CHRISTIANS ARE INSURANCE AGENTS.

If God is in the insurance business, then we are His agents. We seek to ‘cover’ our friends, relatives, neighbors, co-workers, fellow citizens, and, actually, all our ‘brothers come down from Adam.’ Love motivates us. Gratitude sends us. When Noah was uncovered in his tent, Shem and Japheth took a garment and went backwards to cover their father’s shame (Gen. 9:23). They did what love always does-cover the shame of sinners. The Bible teaches us to do just that:

•  ‘Hatred stirreth up strifes; but love covereth all sins’ (Prov.10:12).
• ‘A fool’s wrath is presently known; but a prudent man covered shame’ (Prov. 12:16).
• ‘He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends’ (Prov. 17:9).
• ‘And above all things have fervent charity among your-selves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins’ (1 Pet. 4:8).

Love does not ‘sweep sin under the rug.’  In younger days, our older brothers or buddies from school occasionally pressed us to ‘cover for them’ to keep them from the wrath of parents or teachers. It never worked. The truth came out and then we looked as bad as they did. Sin is like a rubber tire-it won’t stay buried (Num. 32:23; 1 Tim. 5:24, 25). So, then, what does the Bible mean when it says that ‘love covereth all sins?’ We cover sins by assisting sinners in getting rid of them. James wrote: ‘Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins’ (5:20).

ARE YOU COVERED?

It does no good to cover one’s sins so that others do not know of them. Children may hide things from their parents, husbands and wives may hide things from each other, and workers may hide things from their employers, but no one hides anything from God (Heb. 4:13). ‘He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy’ (Prov. 28:13).

The only way to cover one’s sins is to have them erased from the mind of God (Heb. 8:12). For sinners this is done through faith in His Son (Jn. 3:16), repentance (turning from sinful behavior) (Lk. 13:3), confession of faith (Rm. 10:9, 10), and immersion in water to have sins blotted out (Acts 2:38). For erring Christians, sins are covered by repentance, confession, and prayer (Acts 8:22).

‘Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered’ (Psa. 32:1).

Answer the Prayer of Jesus

A little fellow wished to pray but had never been taught how. He, thus, began to recite his ABCs as he knelt. A man passing by overheard the lad and inquired, ‘Son, what’s going on?’ ‘I’m saying my prayers,’ replied the boy. ‘But why the ABCs?’ the man asked. ‘Sir,’ came the answer, ‘I don’t know how to go about praying, so I thought if I said my ABCs God would take what he needed and spell out the words to match my wants.’ With childlike innocence, this little fellow believed in prayer.

  Jesus also believed in prayer. In fact, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John compositely recorded several occasions where Jesus went apart to pray. For example, all of John 17 projects a prayer of Jesus which may be divided into four segments: (1) For Himself (17:1-5); (2) For the apostles (17:6-19); (3) For the church (17:20-23); and again, (4) For the apostles (17:24-26).

  Let’s focus on ‘Christ’s prayer for the church’ (17:20-23). ‘Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.’ This pulsates with a plea for harmony.

  According to ‘Christ’s prayer for the church,’ harmony is a challenging possibility. He prayed that all who believe on him through the apostles’ word might ‘be one…be one in us….be one…be made perfect in one.’ In each of these petitions, the subjunctive mood of the Greek language was used, indicating an objective reality! Harmony among Christians is more than an illusive dream or noble sentiment. Encouragingly, it is a very real possibility. A case in point to prove such would be the first century church of Jerusalem (Acts 2:42, 44-46). They were united in their support of fearless Gospel preaching (4:24-29). They were united in their benevolent spirit and sacrificial care (4:32). They were also united in their support of church discipline (5:1-12). By example, they established the possibility of harmony existing in the church.

  Therefore, the subject of harmony among Christians should be approached with a positive attitude. When it comes to unity in the church, negative slurs [‘Well, that sounds good,’ or ‘It would be nice,’ or ‘That is just youthful idealism’] should be CANNED. After all, success comes in CANS not CAN’TS! If Jesus’ prayer for the church implied the possibility of harmony in the church, it is a possibility; yea, it is a possibility that challenges every congregation and heart of the church.

Ron Humphrey, in his book entitled, Hearts on Fire, noted a most sobering statistic: “The average member of the church of Christ has heard 4,000 sermons, sung 20,000 songs, participated in 8,000 public prayers and converted zero sinners.”  One cannot help but ask: What are we thinking? What are we doing? Where are we headed? More importantly, what can be done to correct such a pattern?

Maintenance Mentality — With this in mind, consider, what Ron Humphrey calls the “maintenance mentality” (p.5). One doesn’t have to look too far to see it. Once in a men’s business meeting, in a context in the which church discipline was being discussed, after having lessons and a special speaker to answer questions on the subject, it was time to put the Lord’s will into action. One brother, who unfortunately wielded much influence, said, “I have been told if we do this there are some who will leave. It takes people to give the money and it takes money to pay the bills.” Another man, whose only input in the past was the status of the “gas bill,” also expressed his concern.

After some discussion, some in favor and some in opposition, I asked, “Are we going to allow the weak and/or disobedient brethren to determine which commands we are going to keep and which commands we are going to ignore?” “Oh, no, no, no….” was the response. In spite of such an emphatic denial, rest assured that was exactly what was happening!

What was the problem? It was the “maintenance mentality”! Numbers and bills were more important than souls and commands. It is a frightening thing to think that God’s people can become so numb that they actually seem to perceive the mission of the church as keeping the lights on, the carpet clean and the gas bill paid. It’s as if God is pleased so long as you keep the building structurally sound and have an occasional fellowship dinner.

Forgive me, but I don’t think God is all that impressed with clean carpet and continental breakfasts! What impresses him is seeing the church respecting the word and keeping all of the commands – one of which is evangelism. May God keep us from the maintenance mentality!

Friendship Evangelism — “Friendship Evangelism” is the practice of becoming friends with someone in order to introduce them to the truth. One may ask, “How can that possibly be perceived as an enemy of evangelism?” Who among us has not, in efforts to convert someone, befriended a sinner? This writer most certainly has and will continue to so do. What then is the problem? The trouble with “Friendship Evangelism” resides not in its basic concept, but rather in abuses in its implementation. There are, at least from this writer’s perspective, two major abuses of “Friendship Evangelism.”

First, “Friendship Evangelism” is not aggressive, let alone as aggressive as God demands we be! When Jesus commissioned the disciples, He did not say: “Go make friends”; he said: “Go make disciples” (Matt. 28:19-20). The primary responsibility of the Lord’s people is not to befriend sinners. The responsibility is to teach truth! May we never equate our having become friends with someone who needs the gospel to our having worked to evangelize their soul!

Second, “Friendship Evangelism” is used as an excuse for inactivity. When asked, “Have you talked to them about their soul yet,” it is common to hear as an answer: “Well, we’re not good enough friends yet.” Where does it say one must be “good enough friends” with someone to teach them the gospel? What unfortunately happens is the fear of “loosing them” causes the Lord’s command to preach the gospel to be either postponed or completely circumvented. A friendship, even with a potential convert, should never be placed above the determination one has to keep the Lord’s commands (Luke 14:26).

Lethargic Dual — A preacher was going to speak on the two greatest enemies of the Lord’s church. He ran the topic by a brother and asked: “Joe, I think the two greatest enemies are ignorance and apathy. What do you think?” To which Joe answered, “I don’t know and I don’t care.” Joe, while oblivious to it, was a personification of the problem plaguing the church.

First, consider that of ignorance. Do people really understand that God means what He says? The God of the Bible will not lie. In fact, He cannot lie (Titus 1:2; Heb. 6:18)! Such is contrary to His very nature. Consequently, God means what He says. That means that accountable people who do die without having obeyed the Gospel will be lost (Matt. 7:21). Contrary to what some teach, there are no exceptions, no ulterior plans and no second chances! One has rightly stated, “The only surprise about the Judgment is that there won’t be any surprises!” Paul said: “Knowing therefore the fear of the Lord, we persuade men” (II Cor. 5:11). Surely there are not many, if any among us, who are unaware of the church’s responsibility to save the lost. It would seem that anyone who has a remote clue about God’s Good Book, would know that to claim ignorance of evangelistic responsibility in the Judgment would be futile. May God help us to be aware of our responsibility!

   Second, consider the topic of apathy. Three words aptly capture the gist of “apathy”: indifference and no interest. The apathetic Christian is the one who can hear a lesson on evangelism and feel little or no compulsion to do something. He is virtually “numb” to God’s command to evangelize the lost. He might talk about it, or make announcements concerning it, yet he personally never does it. Evangelism to the apathetic is always “someone else’s business.” Whenever a Christian is numb to a command of God, he is “lukewarm” at best. Remember the church of Laodicea: “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So because thou art lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spew thee out of my mouth.” (Rev. 3:14-16). Is there a more graphic description of the Lord’s disgust for his people?

May we be ever aware of our responsibility to save the lost and may we have the willingness to do something about it. Again, it was Jesus Christ who said: “Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world” (Matt. 28:18-19).

Our children sing a song that goes like this: The church is not a building; The church is not a steeple; The church is not a resting place; The church IS the people.

Too often in our society, religion is confused with the worship of buildings and programs. We believe that God cares very little for either of those things. God did not send a shrine or a new program to redeem lost humanity. God sent his son so we may be saved through him and so we may learn of his love for us. God’s agenda has always been people-centered. 

We hope you find us to be a group that cares about people. Our goal is that all people, of all races and backgrounds, of all levels of health or handicap, of all nationalities and age groups feel welcome in our Church family. 

You will hear us talk about our Church family. This is more than talk. God uses images of the family in His Word to speak of the Church. For us, these images are very real. God speaks of Christians as his sons or children, the heirs of his promise– all images are taken from the family. God speaks of himself as our father and the Church as his household. Those who help others believe in Christ and live more like him speak of these new Christians as their spiritual children in the faith. Fellow Christians are known as brothers and sisters in Christ. 

The more we are together and share in each other’s needs, rejoice in each other’s triumphs, minister to each other’s pain, and share in each other’s joys, the more we truly feel like real family. The talk becomes more than empty words and the reality becomes a much more precious gift than anything money could buy. 

Now as a family, we are not perfect, but then few families are. We just know we have a perfect Father. We want you to know him too! We hope will decide to be part of the Sunset Avenue family with us. The following pages tell you a little bit more about who we are, what we believe, and what we do when we get together. 

I JUST WANT TO BE A CHRISTIAN
As the church of Christ meeting in Sunset Avenue; we are a group of people who just want to be Christians. Our desire is not to be another church denomination. There are already too many divisions among those who believe in Jesus. We want to be obedient to God’s word and be Christians like the original Christians we read about in the New Testament. There are several things about which we feel very strongly. These strong feelings will also tell you a little more about us as a Church. 

INDEPENDENT–we are independent of any denominational structure. We are not bound by any denominational creeds, written traditions, or regional/national organization. We want to be undenominational! We are completely independent and autonomous in terms of our doctrine, practice, and church government. We do have a group of men who are our spiritual guides and leaders. These men are called elders, bishops (overseers), or pastors (shepherds). These men are all members of our congregation and have been chosen by us based upon the qualifications listed in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. They guide us as a church body and they are responsible to God for our spiritual lives. 

BIBLE BASED–we believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God which tells us how to live and also how to conduct our life as a Church (2 Timothy 3:16-17). We also believe there is only one way to unify all the many different divisions among those seeking to honor Jesus Christ as Lord: John 3:16) Jesus died on the cross to bring salvation to all kinds of people (1 John 2:2). The Holy Spirit was promised as a gift to all who responded obediently to the call of God (Acts 2:38-39). Christians are to do good deeds for all people, Christians and non-Christians (Galatians 6:10). We try to practice these principles through the various ministries of the church and through our personal lives. 

MISSION MINDED— The purpose of the Church of Jesus has always been to reach the lost of every nation, language, and culture with the message of salvation. We want to do our part in this great task.

HOW DO I BECOME A PART OF THIS CHURCH? We hope this is the question you want to ask. In a city like Madera, where there are so many opportunities and so many needs, we can use all the help we can get to do the Lord’s work. 

If you are already a Christian, all you need to do to be a part of the Sunset Avenue church family is to let us know of your desire to work with this congregation and to serve the Lord in this place. By doing this, you also show your willingness to minister and to worship under the spiritual guidance of our elders. You can do this in one of the following ways: during one of our Church assemblies, come to the front during our invitation song and let us know of your desire to be a member at Sunset Avenue; speak to one of the Elders and let them know personally of your desire; or put on your visitors card that you want to be a member. We would love to have you as a part of our Church family! 

BUT HOW DOES ONE REALLY KNOW IF HE OR SHE IS REALLY A CHRISTIAN?  This is the most important question that anyone could ever ask! Despite all the confusion in the religious world, God’s teaching in the Bible is very clear. The only thing that truly saves a person and allows that person to become a Christian is the saving death of Jesus Christ. The Bible tells us there is nothing, no work or deed, that can bring us salvation. Salvation rests on the love and grace of God (Romans 5:6-8; John 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9). 

The real question is, “How do I come in contact with the grace of God and receive this salvation?” 

The New Testament tells us over and over again that we come into contact with the grace of God and receive salvation through faith in the saving work of Jesus Christ (Romans 3:21-26). Remember it is the grace of God shown in the life of Christ which saves us. Our role is to accept this gift through saving faith. 

True faith involves several specific actions. It involves confessing aloud that Jesus is Lord and believing in our hearts that God raised him from the dead (Romans 10:9-10). Faith involves repentance, the changing of our heart and life to do the things of God (Acts 2:38; 3:19-20). Faith involves surrendering our lives in baptism to the will of God for the forgiveness of our sins (Galatians 3:26-27; Acts 2:38; 16:29-34; 22:16). Faith also involves living with commitment toward God and with compassion toward those around us (Galatians 5:6; James 2:14-16). While we submit to God’s will in these actions, God is at work bringing us into his kingdom, his Church, forgiving and cleansing us of all our past sins, and placing his Holy Spirit in us (Colossians 1:13-14; Acts 2:38-41; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Titus 3:3-7; Romans 8:9-17, 26-27). We become new people (2 Corinthians 5:17), born of God to begin a new spiritual life of service
for him (John 1:10-13; 3:1-5). 

It is important to remember there is not one thing we can do to earn our salvation. These several actions do not cause our salvation to happen, they are simply the ways that God has provided for us to receive the salvation given us in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This point is clearly shown in Romans 6 where Paul talks about baptism. Notice that the whole discussion on baptism is framed by the concept of grace (verses 3 & 14)! Notice also that baptism is not some arbitrary act that is done to be saved, but is actually a participation, a sharing, in the saving death of Jesus Christ so that we can share in his new life (verses 3-10). It is sharing in what Christ has done, through our faith, that allows us to receive the grace of God already provided for us in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

We would love to have you be a part of our Sunset Avenue Church Family. If you are a Christian, please let us know you want to be a part of our Church family. If you are not a Christian, then we would encourage you to become one today so you can share in our hope and joy found only in the Lord. If you have further questions about any of these matters, we would be happy to visit with you. Let us know by telling one of us personally, or checking the little box on the visitors card. If you have further questions, please feel free to call us, our staff ministers or any of our elders would be willing to visit with you at your convenience. We are so glad you chose to spend time on our web site. God bless you as you seek to honor him with your life! 

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN CHRISTIANS MEET TOGETHER? When the woman at the well asked Jesus where the proper place to worship God was located, Jesus responded by saying, “You will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem…a time is coming and now has come when the true worshippers will worship the Father in Spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshippers the Father seeks. God is Spirit, and his worshippers must worship him in Spirit and truth”. (John 4:21, 23-24). 

By saying these things, Jesus is sharing with us several very important concepts about worship: first, he tells us that worshipping God is not place centered–the thing that makes worship important is not the place where it happens; second, he tells us that worship is directed to God who shows himself as our Father–we worship from the perspective of a family; third, true worship comes from those who have the Holy Spirit, because God is Spirit, and true worship is worship in Spirit; fourth, true worship involves truth–it must be done how God wants it done and done by people whose lives are in tune with the worship they offer; fifth, God our father, actively seeks those who will worship him in these ways. 

Why is it so important to understand all this? Jesus’ five principles about true worship tell you a great deal about what we do when we assemble together as Christians. 

First, we know that while part of our worship to God occurs when we come together Sundays, Wednesdays, or other special occasions, a large part of our worship occurs at home, on the job, or while we are with friends. Our church building is just a convenient tool that lets us meet  together, butit is not a special “holy place.” What we do in our daily lives is every bit as important in worshipping God as is our singing and praying (See Romans 12:1-2 or 1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This does not mean our meeting together at church assemblies is unimportant (see Hebrews 10:25). We just recognize that all of life is part of our worship to him. 

Second, we come together as a family to honor our Father in Heaven. As a family, we have hurts and pains and illnesses that bother us. We speak plainly about them to each other and to our Father. We believe sharing and praying to our Father about these spiritual and physical needs is a very vital part of our worship that pleases God. We have seen God mightily answer our prayers to meet both spiritual and physical needs in our church family. We also share a family “meal” when we come together on Sundays. Each Sunday we gather as one body, as one family, remembering the death of Christ in the Lord’s Supper and proclaiming to all that he
is coming again to take us to our home (1 Corinthians 11:27-34). 

Third, because worship involves the work of the Holy Spirit (Philippians 3:3), we understand that it is a privilege to worship God. As Christians who have received the Holy Spirit, we are reminded of the grace of God that saved us and of his precious presence in us that he gave us when we were saved (Acts 2:38). We know that our prayers are made even more precious to our Father because of the work of the Holy Spirit interceding for us according to the will of God (Romans 8:26-27; Jude 20). Our singing is joyful and full of praise because the Spirit fills us as we speak of our hope and teach one another in our singing (Ephesians 5:18-20). We recognize in the blending of the many voices and the sharing of our different backgrounds the work of the Holy Spirit drawing us into closer fellowship (2 Corinthians 13:13; Philippians 2:1; Ephesians 4:3-6). 

Fourth, God is Ruler and King of our lives and is worthy of our devotion and praise. When we meet together, we worship God to please and honor him. Worship must be offered in ways that truly please Him–in ways he has told us please him! He has given us his grace and has generously blessed us by making us his people, so we joyfully try to please him by being obedient to his will in our worship of him. But right forms and right words do not make God happy when they come from hypocritical hearts and lives that belie the words spoken in church services. So we try to worship God as he has revealed to us in His Word, the Bible. We also try
to live lives that are consistent with the words we proclaim. This doesn’t mean we are always right or perfect. We still live in a real world and are imperfect people, but we are trying to have our worship words and our daily lives be consistent with the will of our Holy God. This is why much of what we do when we come together involves encouraging and building up one another so that we can better live to please our God (Hebrews 10:24-25; 1 Corinthians 14:26). 

Fifth, God yearns for and seeks out men and women who long to live for him and worship him. God is a Father longing to draw his children back into that special relationship which brings joy to both Father and child. As the apostle Paul said, God wants us to “seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. For in him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:27-28). As his children, we invite you to join us in honoring God as your Father. 

To sum it all up, we meet together to share in our common life in the Spirit by praising, honoring, and seeking God. Since this is directly tied to the way we live the rest of the week, we also speak to one another and seek to meet each other’s needs, encouraging one another to a more dynamic life lived for God. He has done so much for us and is fully worthy of our worship! 

Please let us know if we can be of help in any way. We want you to have a place you can come and worship the Father, remember the Son and his sacrifice for us, and be filled with his Spirit as you sing, pray, and share in encouragement. We hope you will want to come and join us so we can all honor him as one big family, the church of Christ in Sunset Avenue.