Proud to be TJ's man

(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.

 

 

       

I. It is difficult to preach on an unpopular subject–conviction.
A. Our age is opposed, this is an age of toleration.
1. In man’s misguided quest for freedom, he misses the meaning.

B. Perhaps this mistake is most evident in the religious world.
1. To the most radical, any religious practice is acceptable.
a. A recent ecumenical meeting had representatives of Protestant
denominations. The Catholics, both Roman and Orthodox were also present.
Most startling, a leader in the Native American religions was asked to
lead a prayer. He did not believe in either the Father or the Son.

II. This toleration in religion is so different from what is found in the
Scriptures.
A. Daniel went to the lion’s den instead of changing his prayer schedule.

B. The apostles in the early church
(Acts 4:7-13) “And when they had placed them in the center, they began
to inquire, “By what power, or in what name, have you done this?” {8}
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers and elders
of the people, {9} if we are on trial today for a benefit done to a sick
man, as to how this man has been made well, {10} let it be known to all
of you, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ
the Nazarene, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead– by this
name this man stands here before you in good health. {11} “He is the
STONE WHICH WAS REJECTED by you, THE BUILDERS, but WHICH
BECAME THE VERY CORNER stone. {12} “And there is salvation in no
one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among
men, by which we must be saved.” {13} Now as they observed the confidence
of Peter and John, and understood that they were uneducated and untrained
men, they were marveling, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus.”

(Acts 4:18-20) “And when they had summoned them, they commanded them not
to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. {19} But Peter and John
answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to
give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge; {20} for we cannot
stop speaking what we have seen and heard.””

(Acts 5:28-29) “saying, “We gave you strict orders not to continue
teaching in this name, and behold, you have filled Jerusalem with your
teaching, and intend to bring this man’s blood upon us.” {29} But Peter
and the apostles answered and said, “We must obey God rather than men.”

C. Jesus’ message to the churches of Asia was to be strong. His promises
were to “. . . him that
overcomes.”

III. Which should we follow–the spirit of the age or the example God’s
people?
A. Is it really necessary to hold a belief against all opposition?
B. Ask yourself t these two questions
1. If no one stood for anything, if the spirit of the age seen in many
churches prevailed,
Would the world be a better place?
a. Would more love, compassion and patience exist?
b. Would crime, illegitimate births, abortions and deaths from AIDS
decrease?

c. The trend of our times is that all of these are increasing as the
spirit of the age
prevails.
2. On the other had, if all followed the Biblical teaching,
would the world be worse?
a. If people held to Biblical traditions on love and
morality, would we be so worse off?

DISCUSSION
I. THE REASON FOR CONFLICT–OUR CONCEPTION OF TRUTH
A. Few will deny a change in the world’s view of right and wrong.
1. Some of us have seen a extreme shift in a concept of absolute
truth.
a. In the past, right and wrong were based on principles of law and
morality based on the Bible.
2. This we can document.
a. This began first in philosophy. One’s feelings, his non-rational
experience was superior to demonstrated facts.
b. Art became confused. All expressions were acceptable. No wonder that
a gallery once had a picture hung for a week before someone realized
it was upside down.
c. This then infiltrated the music and culture. “There are many media
for killing men . . . today. They all operate in the same direction: no
truth, no morality. You do not have to go to art galleries or listen to
the more sophisticated music to be influenced by their message. The
common media of cinema and television will do it effectively for you.”

—from The God Who Is There p. 41

B. Is it possible there are no absolutes, that nothing is right or wrong?
1. Absolutes are a part of much of our lives. We have absolutes in
math, science, medicine, etc.
2. We have them in our everyday lives. If I wanted to go Melbourne, I
would not take Interstate 75 because I liked the number. If I did, I
would wonder why I was in Naples.
3. There are some absolutes in our lives that are extremely
important.
a. If I go and buy two shirts at $20 a piece, I will have strong
convictions if I am charged $50. To me, 2 + 2 +4 is an absolute I will defend.

C. If we are willing to accept that God’s word is absolute truth, we must
be willing to accept the results. (1 Pet 1:24-25) “For, “ALL FLESH IS
LIKE GRASS, AND ALL ITS GLORY LIKE THE FLOWER OF GRASS.
THE GRASS WITHERS, AND THE FLOWER FALLS OFF, {25} BUT
THE WORD OF THE LORD ABIDES FOREVER.” And this is the word
which was preached to you.”
1. We must believe that Jesus is all He claimed to be.
2. We must accept the reality of sin and the need of salvation.
3. Life, death and the judgment are real.

II. THOSE WHO HOLD THESE CONVICTIONS MUST REALIZE THEY
ARE IN A WAR.
A. Paul described this conflict. (Eph 6:10-13) “Finally, be strong in
the Lord, and in the strength of His might. {11} Put on the full armor of
God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.
{12} For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the
rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness,
against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. {13}
Therefore, take up the full armor of God, that you may be able to resist
in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.”

1. We face the devil’s schemes.
2. We struggle with the powers of the dark world and the spiritual
forces of evil.
3. We face the devil’s flaming arrows.

B. We must know our enemies–the devil, the world and the flesh.
1. The devil is a cosmic force constantly opposed to man.
a. He has helpers Ephesians 6:12
b. The devil has one goal–to cause as many as possible to be
lost.

2. We face the world as our enemy.
a. The world is a mindset opposed to God.
b. Its goal is to get all to conform.
c. J. B. Philip’s translation of Romans 12:2 “Don’t let the world
squeeze you into its own mold.”
d. The world calls us to be correct and offend none. (We are to give no
place offense unless our stand for truth offends someone).. The
compelling cry of the world is You have hurt my feelings.”
e. The call is to be politically correct.
f. So often we hear, ,”I don’t want to be judgmental…”

3. Our third enemy is the flesh.
a. This is our desires. The goal of the flesh is for us to give in to
selfishness. A woman once called a talk show. She said she had been
married for six months. Her husband had three children by his former
wife, 16, 14 and 1. The woman had dated her husband while his wife was
still expecting. The moderator asked how she could live with a man who
had deserted his family. She said, “He makes me feel good.”

C. If we are right to hold convictions, we must oppose our enemies.

III. IS THERE ANY HOPE?
A. We must first realize we live in a counter-culture. Christianity
is a culture within a culture.
1. We are aliens (Heb 11:13) “All these died in faith, without
receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them
from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles
on the earth.”

(1 Pet 2:11) “Beloved, I urge you as aliens and strangers to abstain
from fleshly lusts, which wage war against the soul.”

2. We live in a culture and seemingly are no different. Yet we do
not belong here. Like E. T., we want to go home.
3. We endure what is necessary to get back to where we belong.

B. There is hope because God is able. (Rev 3:8) “‘I know your
deeds. Behold, I have put before you an open door which no one can shut,
because you have a little power, and have kept My word, and have not
denied My name.”
a. Jesus holds the keys.
b. He opens a door none can shut.
c. Though we are weak, we will overcome.

C. We can hear some say, “Won’t this destroy the church?”
1. How valuable is the church which will to accommodate almost every
worldly practice? One which becomes just as preoccupied in material
things.
One that joins the world’s craze for entertainment instead
of worship and service. One that loves its sexual standards to attempt to attract
the world. If the church will not stand for truth and oppose the
world’s mind set, it should be destroyed. Every time the church has
lowered itself to meet the world, the church has lost.

“Prayer only makes sense when you have quit trying to do ministry alone.
I’ve learned that as things go smoothly, I pray less. As our goals
shrink, I pray less. As things become more manageable, I pray less. But
as we reach out, stretch ourselves, and tackle God-sized dreams, I pray
more.”

There are over thirty references to prayer in the Book of Acts. The
following five passages were selected to provide a window into the prayer
life of the early church.

While there is not time to look at any of these passages at length, we
will use them like a scrapbook to look through in order to get an idea of
how and why they prayed.

Acts 2:42
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship,
to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”

The first fellowship was eagerly and persistently engaged in the critical
duty of prayer. Understanding the sense of loss His disciples were
feelings as they anticipated His leaving, the Lord Jesus Christ had
promised in John 14:13-14 that “whatever you ask in My name, that will I
do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. if you ask me anything
in My name, I will do it.”

The early church took that promise as the source of God’s provision for
all their needs, and they relentlessly pursued divine help. Praying
together was a hallmark of the early church:

(Acts 1:14) “They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with
the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.”

(Acts 1:24) “Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us
which of these two you have chosen”

(Acts 4:24-37) “When they heard this, they raised their voices together
in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heaven and
the earth and the sea, and everything in them. {25} You spoke by the Holy
Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: “‘Why do the
nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? {26} The kings of the earth
take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and
against his Anointed One.’ {27} Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met
together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to
conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. {28} They
did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. {29}
Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your
word with great boldness. {30} Stretch out your hand to heal and perform
miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant
Jesus.”

Acts 4:24-31 Notice the four parts of the believers’ prayer…
THEIR PRAISE v. 24 Sovereign Lord…you made the heaven and the earth and
the sea…
It is always appropriate to remember Who God is before we address
any situation.

SCRIPTURE w. 25-26 Quote from Psalm 2:1-2. They were comforted in that
their opposition had been foretold by David. They were, in fact, a
fulfillment of prophecy. Satan’s efforts only succeeded in fulfilling
God’s eternal plan.

THE PROBLEM w. 27-28 Their opposition was because they belonged to Jesus.

THEIR REQUEST w. 29-30 They did not ask for protection or a place to
hide, but instead asked for even more courage to boldly proclaim God’s
truth – the very thing they had been ordered not to do.

GOD’S RESPONSE v.31 God’s answer was not long in coming for the building
was shaken and they spoke the word of God more boldly.

Acts 6:1-4
“In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian
Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows
were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. {2} So the
Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be
right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait
on tables. {3} Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to
be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over
to them {4} and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the
word.””

Prayer and ministry of the word were inseparably linked. God’s people
must always seek that marvelous harmony of Bible study and prayer.

Bible study without prayer can lead to self-righteousness and spiritual
dryness;
Prayer without Bible study can lead to a perpetual condition of spiritual
immaturity.

The apostles wisely recognized:
· that hurry and over commitment are the enemies of spirituality
· that we can do more than pray after we have prayed, but we cannot do
more than pray until we have prayed!

Still for most of us there is a great feeling that when we pray we are
doing nothing, and this feeling makes us give undue importance to work,
sometimes even to the hurrying over or even to the neglect of prayer.

Like the early church, we must remember not to rest too much on the arm
of flesh and to make of first Importance the practice of relying first
and foremost upon the arm of God.

In the words of A.W. Tozer, “God wants us to take care of the depth of
our ministry; He will take care of the breadth of our ministry.”

Acts 9:40-41
“Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and
prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, “Tabitha, get up.” She
opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up. {41} He took her by the
hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called the believers and the
widows and presented her to them alive.”

As he had seen the Lord do when He raised Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5:40),
Peter sent them all out of the room where Dorcas’ body lay. He would not
put on a display before the crowd that would draw all attention to him;
and wanted a quiet place to pray.

Some might think that Peter, who had been involved m many healings should
simply have commanded Dorcas to rise. He knew, however, the source of his
power and presumed nothing about the will of God.

Acts 12:1-12
(Acts 12:1-12) “It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who
belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. {2} He had James,
the brother of John, put to death with the sword. {3} When he saw that
this pleased the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened
during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. {4} After arresting him, he put him
in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers
each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the
Passover. {5} So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly
praying to God for him. {6} The night before Herod was to bring him to
trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains,
and sentries stood guard at the entrance. {7} Suddenly an angel of the
Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side
and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off
Peter’s wrists. {8} Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and
sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,”
the angel told him. {9} Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had
no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he
was seeing a vision. {10} They passed the first and second guards and
came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself,
and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street,
suddenly the angel left him. {11} Then Peter came to himself and said,
“Now I know without a doubt that the Lord sent his angel and rescued me
from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were
anticipating.” {12} When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of
Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered
and were praying.”

While Peter was kept in prison, the church responded as they usually did
when facing persecution: fervent prayer. They knew the battle was
spiritual in nature and that only God had the power to release Peter.

The church poured the maximum effort they were capable of into their
prayers for Peter. They knew the truth James was later to express, that
“the prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective” (James 5:16).

What would you conclude to be some of their basic beliefs about God and
about prayer?
1. They relentlessly pursued divine help according to the promise of
Jesus.
2. They believed God would protect them, so they prayed for boldness
instead!
3. They understood the premier importance of both prayer and the
Apostles’ words.
4. They knew God was the source of power and prayer was not for the sake
of show.
5. They prayed with maximum effort, knowing their battle was truly a
spiritual one.

· Stephen prayed as he was being stoned (Acts 7:55-60).
· Peter and John prayed for the Samaritans (Acts 8:14-17)
· Saul of Tarsus prayed after his conversion (Acts 9:11).
· Cornelius prayed that God would show him how to be saved (Acts 10:1-4)
· Peter was on the housetop praying when God told him how to be the
answer to Cornelius’ prayers (Acts 10:9).
· The church at Antioch fasted and prayed before sending out Barnabas and
Paul (Acts 13:1-3; and note 14:23).
· It was at a prayer meeting in Philippi that God opened Lydia’s heart
(Acts 16:13)
· another prayer meeting in Philippi opened the prison doors (Acts
16:25ff).
· Paul prayed for his friends before leaving them (Acts 20:36; 21:5).
· In the midst of a storm, he prayed for God’s blessing (Acts 27:35)
· and after a storm, he prayed that God would heal a sick man (Acts
28:8).

In almost every chapter in Acts you find a reference to prayer, and the
book makes it very clear that something happens when God’s people pray.

This is certainly a good lesson for the church today. Prayer is both the
thermometer and the thermostat of the local church; for the “spiritual
temperature” either goes up or down, depending on how God’s people pray.

John Bunyan, author of Pilgrim’s Progress, said, “Prayer is a shield to
the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge to Satan.” In the Book of
Acts, you see prayer accomplishing all of these things.

In 1917 as the American “Doughboys” were preparing to take their places on the battlefields of France and Belgium, the New York Bible Society asked Theodore Roosevelt to pen a brief message in the New Testaments that each soldier would be given.

 

Roosevelt wrote the following which demonstrated his superb character.

The teaching of the New Testament is foreshadowed in Micah’s verse: “what more doth the Lord require of thee than to do justice, and to love mercy, and  to walk humbly with thy God.” Do Justice; and therefore fight valiantly against those that stand for the reign of Moloch and Beelzebub on this earth. Love mercy; treat your enemies well; succor the afflicted; treat every woman as if she were your sister; care for the little children; and be tender with the old and helpless. Walk humbly; you will do so if you study the life and teachings of the Savior, walking in His steps. And remember: the most perfect machinery of government will not keep us as a nation from destruction if there is not within us a soul. No abounding of material prosperity shall avail us if our spiritual senses atrophy. The foes of our own household will surely prevail against us unless there be in our people an inner life which finds its outward expression in a morality like unto that preached by the seers and prophets of God when the grandeur that was Greece and the glory that was Rome still lay in the future. [1]

 

President Roosevelt was quite correct in his assessment that a nation’s survival is intricately connected to its ethical basis. Without the compass of an ethical foundation a society quickly dissolves into chaos and anarchy. Such is proven by history as great nations rise to peak of supremacy and then fall into corrupt chaos because its ethical footing has been lost. This sobering fact exposes the final weakness of Atheism that will be examined in this study. Atheism is a philosophy void of any ethicism! As such it can only lead to futility and despair.

 

Is there any hope for a society permeated with the poison of Atheistic tenets? This question is addressed by the peasant prophet Micah. The dreadful plight of Micah 7:1,2 is common today. Micah prophesied with Isaiah. These two prophets lived in a society controlled by avarice, injustice, and falsehood. Corruption was found from the priests to the magistrates to the false prophets.  Their society was without respect for God and His will.

 

Micah paints a clear picture of what an Atheistic society is like. A nation that refuses God will be blind to Jehovah’s mercies (6:3); demonstrate selfishness in pursuing materialism at the expense of their  fellow man (6:10‑11); have cities filled with evil, violence, and sickness (6:12‑13); its security will vanish and satisfaction will not be found (6:14); destruction and derision are its future prospects (6:16). The horrible summary of Micah 7:1‑6 presents the tragedy of the atheistic philosophy. Who wants to live in a society like this?

 

The modern American society unfortunately shares a number of similarities with the Israel of Micah’s time. In our day violence is rampant, corruption is pervasive, and one’s fellow men are seen as expendable for selfish pleasures. Israel tried a number of “band aid” cures of her ills but none was successful (Mic 6:1‑7). Our society recognizes that it too is beset with many “ills.” We too are offered a number of “band aid” cures. But like Israel, modern America faces a cancer that cannot be remedied with secular cures. Modern society is struggling with a disease just as Israel (Is 1:4‑6). This disease will destroy unless it is quickly checked. There is hope for our society! Even as bad as ancient Israel was the nation had the prospect of hope. In the midst of Micah’s tragic passage there is offered hope. Micah 6:8 offered a “cure” to Israel’s illness and that cure is prescribed for society’s illness in the modern times.

 

The Cure Proposed

In this brief text Micah says that the security of men and nations depends upon faithful adherence to three factors. Look at each and see how it helps “cure” the disease that will destroy.

 

First, “do justice”! This mandates an unyielding commitment to the just application of laws that are designed to bring fairness and equity to the land. Justice is a concept that is frequently mentioned in Scripture (cf Ro 2:11‑24; Jas 2:8‑13). Those who abuse, prejudice, and extort justice will not go unpunished. All citizens cry for “justice.” This is an inalienable right of humans. But this “justice” is not possible unless one acknowledges “righteousness.” We can only define “justice” in regard to “right” doing. Apart from righteousness there can be no justice! This is why God urges, “Preserve justice, and do righteousness … how blessed is the man who does this” (Is 56:1,2; cf Amos 5:24).

 

Roosevelt understood the imperative of “justice” and he urged it upon our soldiers of W.W.I. No society can endure unless it upholds both the just and the good. This is a simple point that is often ignored – “justice” can only be defined by “goodness.” But Atheism removes “goodness” as an ethical basis when it rejects God. Atheism thus leaves us without any basis for “justice.”

 

This realm of “justice” is often skirted by believers. It seems that most Christians have convinced themselves that they have no business being involved in matters of legal justice, legislation of civil laws, and events within the political arena. Consequently, “We have not only rendered unto Caesar what is Caesar’s, we have rendered unto him what is God’s as well” [Grant, p. 133]. This “ostrich” mentality is unbiblical. The Holy Scriptures teach that man was created to “rule” (superintend) earthly matters (Gn 1:28); believers are to leaven society for good (1 Pt 1:13‑16; 2:11); and we should pursue righteousness and justice in governmental ways (1 Ki 10:9). The Bible is clear – God does not want His followers to be isolated and dumb regarding society.

 

The consequences of Christians failing to pursue “justice” are shocking. Because of Christian silence society has reshaped morality and values; the pursuit of happiness has become lust achieved; the unborn are slaughtered; the family is redefined; and, the sacred is ridiculed! If our modern society is to be cured from a destructive illness, we must uphold biblical justice! (Job 29:14).

 

Second, “love mercy.” This is a practical concern for those unfortunate in this life. It is the tender regard that was urged by Roosevelt, “treat your enemies well; succor the afflicted; treat every woman as if she was your sister; care for the old and helpless.” It is this mercy that distinguishes “pure” religion (Jas 1:27), subdues selfishness (Philip 2:4), and extends “comfort” (2 Co 1:3‑7). But, again the philosophy of Atheism erases this necessary factor in curing society’s illness. Atheism upholds basic tenets that deny God and thus removes any basis for morality. Atheism, when practically applied, denies the validity of mercy. Its advocation of “mercy killing” is a misnomer for it possesses no mercy! “Mercy” is the quality which has strengthened America. It has built hospitals and orphanages. It has brought about the establishment of charitable services, rescue missions, and all others services that benefit man. All that is good springs from this mercy that is found in Theism but is missing in Atheism!

 

Third, “walk humbly with God.” This refers to an admission of man’s weakness and God’s omnipotence (cf Ac 10:34,35; Pr 1:7). A civilization that refuses to acknowledge God’s power will soon vanish. History has proven true that “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord” and “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people” (Ps 33:12; Pr 14:34). A nation who honors God will find these rewards: suffer no want (Ps 34:9); be ever blessed (Ps 115:13); and, be set above all nations (Dt 28:1). The exalted role which America has played in world history hangs in judgement at the present. Society’s illness will lead to ruin unless this “humility” is rekindled.

 

The necessity of humility is emphasized by this comment of George Washington, “It is the first duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and to humbly implore His protection and favor in holy fear” (Programs And Papers, Washington, D.C.: United States George Washington Bicentennial Commission, 1932, p. 33).  Atheism will never allow a civilization to ennoble itself with this humility for the Almighty!  Atheism rejects humility for pride. Such a practice leads only to madness and despair as proud Nebuchadnezzar discovered when he spurned humility and followed pride (Da 4:30‑33). A like disaster awaits all who fail to “walk humbly with thy God.”

 

The Cure Realized

Having observed the cause of the illness and observing the prescribed cure, Micah’s words now help us understand that hope for a cure does exist!  The hopeless pit of despair can be escaped! The prophet held hope for Israel and in his words modern man finds a glimmer of light as well. Micah’s closing chapter encouraged the wayward nation to live with a practical faith in God, “But as for me, I will watch expectantly for the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation. My God will hear me” (7:7). Those who follow the threefold formula of 6:8 will find vindication and satisfaction, “He pleads my case and executes justice for me. He will bring me out to the light” (7:9). Those who refuse the cure by denying God will face shame, “And shame will cover her who said to me, ‘Where is the Lord your God?’ My eyes will look on her; at that time she will be trampled down, like mire in the streets” (7:10). The possibility of escaping from hopeless despair is illustrated in Nebuchadnezzar. He had spurned Jehovah’s counsel and turned to pride. This led him to total despair until he turned his face upward and admitted God’s sovereignty (Da 4:34‑37).

 

To be cured from a tragic illness is wonderful. To have the opportunity to escape from the dismal despair of atheism is the most wonderful news modern man can possibly hear. But this escape will come only to those who are willing to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God! When this prescription is followed a wonderful “cure” is realized (Micah 7:17b‑19).

 

Concluding Thoughts

In our world of violence and evil, there is only one viable hope – faith and obedience in God! If we are to live in a society marked with justice, mercy, and humility we must begin with ourselves and our families first. Therefore it is essential that we take a long, honest look at our attitudes toward Jehovah God. Let us respect the Almighty’s will and there will be justice, mercy, and humility in our lives.

 

In one of his final addresses to the newborn nation, our Founding Father remarked,

I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind, which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, for without an humble imitation and example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy nation. (Evan Davis, Our Greatest President, New York: Bedford Co., Pub., 1861, p.  366). [2]

 

Let all recognize what Roosevelt understood as he penned those words to our troops heading to the European front lines in W.W.I. He understood that a nation’s greatness is found only in its criteria of justice, practice of mercy, and attitude of dependance upon the Almighty’s power. These three factors are sadly missing in our current world view. They have been displaced by the deceptive tenets of Atheism. Let us recognize the futility of Atheism. Many will reject “intellectual” atheism ‑ they admit that there is a God. But many will accept a “practical” atheism ‑ they refuse to humble themselves in obedience to the Almighty’s will! May all recognize the Almighty and follow His commands.

He has told you, O man what is good; and what does the Lord

require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
[1] (The Foes Of Our Own Household, New York: Chas. Scribner’s Sons, 1917, p. 132).

 

[2] For further reading and research on this lesson:

Grant, George, Trial And Error: The American Civil Liberties Union And Its Impact On Your Family. Wolgemuth & Hyatt, Publishers Inc., 1989.

Machen, J. Gresham, Christianity And Liberalism. Grand Rapids: Wm. B Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1923.

       

Napoleon Bonaparte put a man by the name of Charney into prison. A little flower grew within the enclosed prison yard. Above this flower was written, “All things come by chance.” (A concise commentary on the philosophy of the French Revolutionaries.) But day by day, as Charney took his lonely walk this flower was teaching him lessons of trust.

He made a frame to support it and a shelter to protect it. He felt that all things could not come by chance, “there is One who made this flower so wonderfully beautiful and keeps it alive.” He brushed the lying words from the wall and in his heart he felt “he who made all things is God.” The Empress Josephine, hearing of Charney’s love for the flower, became interested in his plight.

She thought, “a man that loves and tends to a flower cannot be a bad man.” She persuaded the Emperor to set him free. Charney carried the little flower home and carefully tended it in his own greenhouse. It had taught him to believe in God and had also delivered him from prison. [1]

 

There is another illustration of this transition. His story is found in 2 Kings 5. Naaman’s life is the account of a practical atheist whose life of total loss turned to great gain through faith. Read his transition from atheism to faith in 2 Kings 5:15‑17:

(2 Kings 5:15-17 NIV)  Then Naaman and all his attendants went back to the man of God. He stood before him and said, “Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel. Please accept now a gift from your servant.” {16} The prophet answered, “As surely as the LORD lives, whom I serve, I will not accept a thing.” And even though Naaman urged him, he refused. {17} “If you will not,” said Naaman, “please let me, your servant, be given as much earth as a pair of mules can carry, for your servant will never again make burnt offerings and sacrifices to any other god but the LORD.

 

The honest seeker of Truth has to wrestle with the question of God’s existence. One cannot blithely dance through life and evade the question. God’s existence, or absence, has a direct bearing on our everyday lives. Modern man faces two options regarding God – Atheism or Theism. Honest investigation must give each option close scrutiny – nothing should be glossed over; integrity in study is the rule.  In previous lessons we have given an honest examination of Atheism’s option and have seen that it is a philosophy with defense. It has erected a system of belief that is based upon bias and hatred.

 

Study has revealed that for Atheistic philosophy to be consistent it must “make sense out of a random first cause, denounce as immoral all moral denunciations, express meaningfully all meaninglessness, and find security in hopelessness. This is a tall order, even for a wizard with word” [Zacharias, p. 112]. This exposure of Atheism forces the honest searcher to reject it as a viable pattern for life. After Atheism is discounted only Theism is left as a philosophy of life. This is the conclusion which Charney, Naaman, and countless multitudes accepted. And they are right for Theism is the only reasonable conclusion!

 

With these thoughts in mind look now and observe how the honest searcher of Truth will turn from the total loss of Atheism to the rewards of great faith in Theism!

 

A Review Of Atheism’s Basic Tenets

Throughout this series we have seen how Atheism voids earthly life of any purpose, meaning, and value. As a reminder look again at these points.

 

First, there is a TOTAL LOSS OF ORIGIN.

According to Atheistic thought God is regarded as a residue of a dark, ignorant past. It suggests that any connection of our origin with God is absurd. According to Atheistic philosophy, human origin can be traced back to non‑living matter. All life becomes “non‑living” matter in motion! Consistent with this suggestion is the theory that all life originated in “slime” – every living structure, even those of the greatest complexity, was systematically assembled by natural processes! But this concept of origin is not justified. Science asserts that all [even non‑living matter] had a beginning point! Not one particle of evidence exists for the concept of evolution which is necessary to Atheism.

 

Second, there is a TOTAL LOSS OF MORALITY.

According to Atheism, man is a creature of instinct and impulse. He is a higher animal that is capable of choice, but nonetheless still an animal. Atheism thus denies absolute morality. Its advocates claim that right or wrong are relative issues that must be modified by each generation. Atheism consigns humans to an existence that is incapable of moral behavior. But this tenet leads to great loss; a pit of despair such as awaits only animals. Instant gratification from instinct and impulse “digs mudholes that nurture progressive filth. Animals have no choice. For them mudholes are the only alternative possible, and so their filth remains. But humans are capable of moral decisions that impose ‘mudhole’ accountability to which the Bible imparts eternal consequences” [Gange, p. 147].

 

Third, there is TOTAL LOSS OF MEANING.

Atheism can identify no purpose for earthly existence. We are here by chance; live by instinct; and, die for extinction! What a morbid philosophy! Since life has no spiritual meaning man feeds upon the scum of fleshly appetites and slides into the mudhole of despair. By denying humans the purpose for life’s meaning, Atheism has forced us to an existence of utter despondency.

 

Fourth, there is TOTAL LOSS OF HOPE.

Even though Atheism postulates that evolution will ultimately bring the utopia of man’s goodness, it fails. But the goal of Atheism is well beyond the reality of existence. Man without God is incapable of “goodness.” Brilliant mortal minds may devise the most complex engineering machines but mortal brilliance cannot engineer a hopeful existence for earthly life without God! Atheism’s loss of hope is keenly felt by its devotees. Listen to this mournful resignation of the total loss of hope . . .

Self‑exiled Harold wanders forth again, With nought of Hope left, but with less of gloom;

The very knowledge that he lived in vain, That all was over this side of the tomb,

Had made Despair a smilingness assume. –Childe Harold, Byron

 

Having exiled hope by its basic tenets, Atheism seeks to destroy it for all humanity. Today, through its influence, millions regard the Bible as sprinkled with fantasy and myth; Christianity is suited only for children; faith is seen as the activity of fools; biblical promises are a psychological crutch. By publishing these statements Atheism has prevented many from possessing hope. And why not? Having exiled hope for itself, Atheism seeks to prevent any from possessing it!

 

Fifth, there is a TOTAL LOSS OF REASON.

Atheism screams for a verification of God’s existence by rational certainty. Since it cannot verify God by sight, sound, or touch, it claims that “reason justifies” the rejection of Deity. But such is error. Atheism claims that there is no God, but it does not offer any “reasonable justification” for its claim! “One can jump off a high building and all the way down shout that there’s no such thing as gravity, but eventually the bottom must come and with it the price of such folly” [Gange, p.152]. Such is likewise true with Atheism’s protestations that “reasonable” evidence is not found for God’s existence.

 

A Response – Theism Brings Great Faith!

The pitiless void of Atheism is set in stark contrast to the option of Theism. All that is lacking in Atheism is abundantly supplied in the belief that a great God does exist! Two inescapable points support the rationale for accepting Theism and rejecting Atheism.

 

First, Theism provides the only acceptable “world view.”

One’s “world view” prescribes behavior, ideas, experiences, and purposes in life. The “world view” interprets all of life’s choices and acts. Everyone is directed by a world view. Common sense mandates that we reason through the many world views and select the one that will bring the greatest joy and satisfaction to earthly life. But how do we select a world view that will bring joy and satisfaction?  The following criteria offers a suitable guide [Zacharias, p. 189].

 

(1) Look for factual support that refuses false and arbitrary conclusions. This means that the facts are not based upon a biased view.

 

(2) Make sure that it maintains a high degree of internal consistency. Truth is always consistent. A truthful world view cannot rest upon tenets that are contradictory.

 

(3) Look for good explanatory powers. As the view looks at life question how it compiles facts, how its deductions lead to theories, and how sensible are the laws which prescribe behavior patterns.

 

(4) Be sure to avoid the extremes of being either too simple or too complex in its theories.

 

(5) Make sure it possesses more than one live of evidence. Evidence should emerge from several sources and all evidence should consistently relate to theories.

 

(6) It should be able to refute contradictory world views. Its consistency should enable it to possess a foundation of Truth that causes it to rise above all other world views.

 

Whenever one has decided upon a world view, s/he is able to explain earthly existence so that meaning and purpose are found. Such a world view passes three critical questions: Is it logically consistent in all it postulates? Is it founded upon adequate data? Is it livable, or relevant to modern man?

 

After all possible world views are scrutinized with these criterion it will be seen that only Theism offers a world view that is satisfactory. Atheism is repeatedly unable to pass these criterion! Thus, Theism offers the only logical, consistent, and systematic world view.

 

Second, Theism provides the philosophy of life that is best suited to man’s needs.

Any conclusion (decision for action) is reached by following a three step method that first examines assumptions, then sets forth arguments, and finally dictates application to life. Atheism’s vulnerability is exposed and Theism’s strength is magnified with this process. Notice how these three steps unite to form a strong foundation for Theistic Philosophy.

 

It begins with logic that offers consistent reasoning. The goal is to strive toward Truth and reject error. This first step helps one understand why a fact is believed and why the belief system should be maintained.

 

After grasping the logical facts, it then looks beyond reason and focuses upon imagination and feeling (i.e. it has the ability to “dream”). With this step mortal minds are able to perceive future satisfaction because basic needs are met. But there is a danger in this second step – one can allow feelings to create an absolute that rejects reason. When this happens the mortal mind ignores the logical facts and follows a delusion. Often those who follow feelings after ignoring logic create incredible perverted practices or fall prey to agony. A fitting quote illustrates – “One who marries on the strength of ‘puppy‑love’ will live a ‘dog’s life’!” Or, “Many a man in love with a dimple makes the mistake of marrying the whole girl.” But when this step is exercised with the logical facts, it enables the mortal mind to imagine and strive toward the noble and right and make the world a better place. It is unfortunate that many who follow Theism fail to guard themselves against the temptation of allowing feelings to overrule facts. This is just as dangerous as the Atheist disclaiming God’s existence because of emotions. “The person who takes emotions as a starting point for determining truth in clutching the finger of feeling thinks he has grabbed the fist of truth” [Zacharias, p. 181].

 

After facts are accepted and reinforced by emotions, a third step is taken – patterns for daily living are prescribed. This is where the “Whys?” of life are given. Here is the test of reality. This is where moral opinions are tested for one’s practices will be judged on the consistency of the first two points.

 

Theism is able to prescribe the best philosophy for earthly life because it is able to provide three basic facts for modern minds. It can offer a reasonable pattern for life. This reasonable pattern is workable in daily life. And, its precepts can be transferred to other generations without modification. As such, Theism is the only philosophy, able to offer man consistent arguments as to what he must believe, illustrate those beliefs by appealing to imaginations that are firmly rooted in factual promises, and finally apply those beliefs to a prescribed pattern of behavior and urge all to comply in that lifestyle!

 

This ability of Theism highlights the inability of Atheism to do the same thing. If Atheism uses feelings/emotions to direct one’s lifestyle it faces multiple contradictions. Atheism cannot appeal to life’s experiences as a rule for living because human experiences only lead to the dilemma of contradictions. Atheism cannot begin with factual data for it has none. The only beginning point is with Truth that can be proven, experienced, and prescribed. But Atheistic philosophy is utterly incapable of presenting such “Truth.”

 

Look back to 2 Kings 5 and observe how the Syrian General found Theism as the only workable philosophy in life. Naaman tried these basic steps in looking for an answer to the empty void and hopeless plight of his life. Notice how he illustrates this process.

 

He came to Israel with a world view that accepted all religions. He was basically a pragmatic atheist for he did not have an absolute faith in God but accepted any “god” as long as it worked for his best interest. But after he was cleansed from his leprosy Naaman was convinced that there was only one God (2 Ki 5:15).

 

What accounts for this dramatic shift in such a brief time? The answer is simple ‑ Naaman utilized the process of reasoning described above and concluded that there was but one God. This is evident from the following observations: He possessed factual evidence of God’s power apart from an emotional/feeling basis (v. 11,15).  He then found a consistency about that factual data and this consistency could not be denied (v.13‑14). He next arrived at an explanation, from the facts and experiences, that prescribed a certain behavior (v.15‑17).

 

Prior to a belief in Jehovah God, Naaman struggled with the emptiness and void of Atheistic philosophy. But after he changed his world view his life was full and satisfying. He could leave “in peace” (v. 19) because he had found the one true God. Such a transition from total loss to great gain remains possible for all honest searchers today!

 

The Results And Consequences Of This Series

The issue of Atheism and Theism is not a matter for intellectuals to bandy about in debates. This issue touches every human being. The far‑reaching scope of this series is evident in three points . . .

 

First, in choosing between these two philosophies, one chooses between the essential dignity and ultimate destiny of mankind!

Atheism has only the dreariest prospect for humanity. Theism holds the only hope for mankind. Here is where the atheist  must face the honest cruelty of his position!

 

Second, one’s choice between these two philosophies will decide the potential for either irretrievable loss or inestimatable gain.

Should one choose Atheism there is no hope, meaning, or significance. How can a reasonable mind make such a choice?

 

Third, this choice reflect either the willingness or reluctance to admit one’s need for God.

The atheist often rejects God not because of intellectual reasoning or factual evidence, but because of a self‑willed arrogance. History epitomizes such in the “Romantic” Poets. Ironically their writings portray the hollowness of their positions. Shelly’s “Ozymandias” depicts the futility of atheistic arrogance. The statue speaks these disconcerting words :

‘My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings: Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!’
Nothing besides remains. Round the decay Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away.

 

Shelly’s portrayal of arrogant atheism is true. The choice of God’s existence or absence reveals a willingness or reluctance to humble self in acknowledging the need for God’s strength.

 

Concluding Thoughts

Man’s worldview decides his purpose and happiness in life. The only reasonable worldview is that which sees earthly life as a preparation period for heavenly splendor. This leads one to see God’s handiwork in earth (Ac 17:24‑28). It leads us to see that God does exist (Da 2:28a). It prescribes the need for all humans to view their world from the philosophy of Theism. Such a program is illustrated in haughty Nebuchadnezzar who finally changed his worldview to admit Theism (cf Da 2:47; 4:34‑37).

 

Viewing earthly life with a God‑centered view allows us to see the Almighty’s compassion, desire to be known by mortals, and willingness to restore fallen man (cf Ac 17:27; Jn 3:16). From the Christian worldview it is not accidental that in the beginning a compassionate God created man for fellowship in the bliss of Eden. Is not accidental that a compassionate God closes the last Book of the Bible with the same compassion exhorting man to “Come!” (Rv 22:17).  [2]
[1] (Elon Foster, New Cyclopedia Of Prose Illustrations. New York: Funk & Wagnalls, 1877, p. 52). Charney is an excellent illustration of how Atheism’s “total loss” can become Faith’s “great gain”!

 

[2] For further reading and research on this lesson

Origins And Destiny, Dr. Robert Gange. Word Publishing, 1986.

Christianity And Liberalism, J. Gresham Machen. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1923.

A Shattered Visage: The Real Face Of Atheism, Ravi Zacharias.  Wolgemuth & Hyatt, Publishers, Inc., 1990.

[1] (Elon Foster, New Cyclopedia Of Prose Illustrations. New York: Funk & Wagnalls, 1877, p. 52). Charney is an excellent illustration of how Atheism’s “total loss” can become Faith’s “great gain”!

 

[2] For further reading and research on this lesson

Origins And Destiny, Dr. Robert Gange. Word Publishing, 1986.

Christianity And Liberalism, J. Gresham Machen. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1923.

A Shattered Visage: The Real Face Of Atheism, Ravi Zacharias.  Wolgemuth & Hyatt, Publishers, Inc., 1990.

       

Napoleon Bonaparte put a man by the name of Charney into prison. A little flower grew within the enclosed prison yard. Above this flower was written, “All things come by chance.” (A concise commentary on the philosophy of the French Revolutionaries.) But day by day, as Charney took his lonely walk this flower was teaching him lessons of trust. He made a frame to support it and a shelter to protect it. He felt that all things could not come by chance, “there is One who made this flower so wonderfully beautiful and keeps it alive.” He brushed the lying words from the wall and in his heart he felt “he who made all things is God.” The Empress Josephine, hearing of Charney’s love for the flower, became interested in his plight. She thought, “a man that loves and tends to a flower cannot be a bad man.” She persuaded the Emperor to set him free. Charney carried the little flower home and carefully tended it in his own greenhouse. It had taught him to believe in God and had also delivered him from prison. [1]

There is another illustration of this transition. His story is found in 2 Kings 5. Naaman’s life is the account of a practical atheist whose life of total loss turned to great gain through faith. Read his transition from atheism to faith in 2 Kings 5:15‑17:

(2 Kings 5:15-17 NIV)  Then Naaman and all his attendants went back to the man of God. He stood before him and said, “Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel. Please accept now a gift from your servant.” {16} The prophet answered, “As surely as the LORD lives, whom I serve, I will not accept a thing.” And even though Naaman urged him, he refused. {17} “If you will not,” said Naaman, “please let me, your servant, be given as much earth as a pair of mules can carry, for your servant will never again make burnt offerings and sacrifices to any other god but the LORD.

The honest seeker of Truth has to wrestle with the question of God’s existence. One cannot blithely dance through life and evade the question. God’s existence, or absence, has a direct bearing on our everyday lives. Modern man faces two options regarding God – Atheism or Theism. Honest investigation must give each option close scrutiny – nothing should be glossed over; integrity in study is the rule.  In previous lessons we have given an honest examination of Atheism’s option and have seen that it is a philosophy with defense. It has erected a system of belief that is based upon bias and hatred.

Study has revealed that for Atheistic philosophy to be consistent it must “make sense out of a random first cause, denounce as immoral all moral denunciations, express meaningfully all meaninglessness, and find security in hopelessness. This is a tall order, even for a wizard with word” [Zacharias, p. 112]. This exposure of Atheism forces the honest searcher to reject it as a viable pattern for life. After Atheism is discounted only Theism is left as a philosophy of life. This is the conclusion which Charney, Naaman, and countless multitudes accepted. And they are right for Theism is the only reasonable conclusion!

With these thoughts in mind look now and observe how the honest searcher of Truth will turn from the total loss of Atheism to the rewards of great faith in Theism!

A Review Of Atheism’s Basic Tenets

Throughout this series we have seen how Atheism voids earthly life of any purpose, meaning, and value. As a reminder look again at these points.

First, there is a TOTAL LOSS OF ORIGIN.

According to Atheistic thought God is regarded as a residue of a dark, ignorant past. It suggests that any connection of our origin with God is absurd. According to Atheistic philosophy, human origin can be traced back to non‑living matter. All life becomes “non‑living” matter in motion! Consistent with this suggestion is the theory that all life originated in “slime” – every living structure, even those of the greatest complexity, was systematically assembled by natural processes! But this concept of origin is not justified. Science asserts that all [even non‑living matter] had a beginning point! Not one particle of evidence exists for the concept of evolution which is necessary to Atheism.

Second, there is a TOTAL LOSS OF MORALITY.

According to Atheism, man is a creature of instinct and impulse. He is a higher animal that is capable of choice, but nonetheless still an animal. Atheism thus denies absolute morality. Its advocates claim that right or wrong are relative issues that must be modified by each generation. Atheism consigns humans to an existence that is incapable of moral behavior. But this tenet leads to great loss; a pit of despair such as awaits only animals. Instant gratification from instinct and impulse “digs mudholes that nurture progressive filth. Animals have no choice. For them mudholes are the only alternative possible, and so their filth remains. But humans are capable of moral decisions that impose ‘mudhole’ accountability to which the Bible imparts eternal consequences” [Gange, p. 147].

Third, there is TOTAL LOSS OF MEANING.

Atheism can identify no purpose for earthly existence. We are here by chance; live by instinct; and, die for extinction! What a morbid philosophy! Since life has no spiritual meaning man feeds upon the scum of fleshly appetites and slides into the mudhole of despair. By denying humans the purpose for life’s meaning, Atheism has forced us to an existence of utter despondency.

Fourth, there is TOTAL LOSS OF HOPE.

Even though Atheism postulates that evolution will ultimately bring the utopia of man’s goodness, it fails. But the goal of Atheism is well beyond the reality of existence. Man without God is incapable of “goodness.” Brilliant mortal minds may devise the most complex engineering machines but mortal brilliance cannot engineer a hopeful existence for earthly life without God! Atheism’s loss of hope is keenly felt by its devotees. Listen to this mournful resignation of the total loss of hope . . .

Self‑exiled Harold wanders forth again, With nought of Hope left, but with less of gloom;

The very knowledge that he lived in vain, That all was over this side of the tomb,

Had made Despair a smilingness assume. –Childe Harold, Byron

Having exiled hope by its basic tenets, Atheism seeks to destroy it for all humanity. Today, through its influence, millions regard the Bible as sprinkled with fantasy and myth; Christianity is suited only for children; faith is seen as the activity of fools; biblical promises are a psychological crutch. By publishing these statements Atheism has prevented many from possessing hope. And why not? Having exiled hope for itself, Atheism seeks to prevent any from possessing it!

Fifth, there is a TOTAL LOSS OF REASON.

Atheism screams for a verification of God’s existence by rational certainty. Since it cannot verify God by sight, sound, or touch, it claims that “reason justifies” the rejection of Deity. But such is error. Atheism claims that there is no God, but it does not offer any “reasonable justification” for its claim! “One can jump off a high building and all the way down shout that there’s no such thing as gravity, but eventually the bottom must come and with it the price of such folly” [Gange, p.152]. Such is likewise true with Atheism’s protestations that “reasonable” evidence is not found for God’s existence.

A Response – Theism Brings Great Faith!

The pitiless void of Atheism is set in stark contrast to the option of Theism. All that is lacking in Atheism is abundantly supplied in the belief that a great God does exist! Two inescapable points support the rationale for accepting Theism and rejecting Atheism.

First, Theism provides the only acceptable “world view.”

One’s “world view” prescribes behavior, ideas, experiences, and purposes in life. The “world view” interprets all of life’s choices and acts. Everyone is directed by a world view. Common sense mandates that we reason through the many world views and select the one that will bring the greatest joy and satisfaction to earthly life. But how do we select a world view that will bring joy and satisfaction?  The following criteria offers a suitable guide [Zacharias, p. 189].

(1) Look for factual support that refuses false and arbitrary conclusions. This means that the facts are not based upon a biased view.

(2) Make sure that it maintains a high degree of internal consistency. Truth is always consistent. A truthful world view cannot rest upon tenets that are contradictory.

(3) Look for good explanatory powers. As the view looks at life question how it compiles facts, how its deductions lead to theories, and how sensible are the laws which prescribe behavior patterns.

(4) Be sure to avoid the extremes of being either too simple or too complex in its theories.

(5) Make sure it possesses more than one live of evidence. Evidence should emerge from several sources and all evidence should consistently relate to theories.

(6) It should be able to refute contradictory world views. Its consistency should enable it to possess a foundation of Truth that causes it to rise above all other world views.

Whenever one has decided upon a world view, s/he is able to explain earthly existence so that meaning and purpose are found. Such a world view passes three critical questions: Is it logically consistent in all it postulates? Is it founded upon adequate data? Is it livable, or relevant to modern man?

After all possible world views are scrutinized with these criterion it will be seen that only Theism offers a world view that is satisfactory. Atheism is repeatedly unable to pass these criterion! Thus, Theism offers the only logical, consistent, and systematic world view.

Second, Theism provides the philosophy of life that is best suited to man’s needs.

Any conclusion (decision for action) is reached by following a three step method that first examines assumptions, then sets forth arguments, and finally dictates application to life. Atheism’s vulnerability is exposed and Theism’s strength is magnified with this process. Notice how these three steps unite to form a strong foundation for Theistic Philosophy.

It begins with logic that offers consistent reasoning. The goal is to strive toward Truth and reject error. This first step helps one understand why a fact is believed and why the belief system should be maintained.

After grasping the logical facts, it then looks beyond reason and focuses upon imagination and feeling (i.e. it has the ability to “dream”). With this step mortal minds are able to perceive future satisfaction because basic needs are met. But there is a danger in this second step – one can allow feelings to create an absolute that rejects reason. When this happens the mortal mind ignores the logical facts and follows a delusion. Often those who follow feelings after ignoring logic create incredible perverted practices or fall prey to agony. A fitting quote illustrates – “One who marries on the strength of ‘puppy‑love’ will live a ‘dog’s life’!” Or, “Many a man in love with a dimple makes the mistake of marrying the whole girl.” But when this step is exercised with the logical facts, it enables the mortal mind to imagine and strive toward the noble and right and make the world a better place. It is unfortunate that many who follow Theism fail to guard themselves against the temptation of allowing feelings to overrule facts. This is just as dangerous as the Atheist disclaiming God’s existence because of emotions. “The person who takes emotions as a starting point for determining truth in clutching the finger of feeling thinks he has grabbed the fist of truth” [Zacharias, p. 181].

After facts are accepted and reinforced by emotions, a third step is taken – patterns for daily living are prescribed. This is where the “Whys?” of life are given. Here is the test of reality. This is where moral opinions are tested for one’s practices will be judged on the consistency of the first two points.

Theism is able to prescribe the best philosophy for earthly life because it is able to provide three basic facts for modern minds. It can offer a reasonable pattern for life. This reasonable pattern is workable in daily life. And, its precepts can be transferred to other generations without modification. As such, Theism is the only philosophy, able to offer man consistent arguments as to what he must believe, illustrate those beliefs by appealing to imaginations that are firmly rooted in factual promises, and finally apply those beliefs to a prescribed pattern of behavior and urge all to comply in that lifestyle!

This ability of Theism highlights the inability of Atheism to do the same thing. If Atheism uses feelings/emotions to direct one’s lifestyle it faces multiple contradictions. Atheism cannot appeal to life’s experiences as a rule for living because human experiences only lead to the dilemma of contradictions. Atheism cannot begin with factual data for it has none. The only beginning point is with Truth that can be proven, experienced, and prescribed. But Atheistic philosophy is utterly incapable of presenting such “Truth.”

Look back to 2 Kings 5 and observe how the Syrian General found Theism as the only workable philosophy in life. Naaman tried these basic steps in looking for an answer to the empty void and hopeless plight of his life. Notice how he illustrates this process.

He came to Israel with a world view that accepted all religions. He was basically a pragmatic atheist for he did not have an absolute faith in God but accepted any “god” as long as it worked for his best interest. But after he was cleansed from his leprosy Naaman was convinced that there was only one God (2 Ki 5:15).

What accounts for this dramatic shift in such a brief time? The answer is simple ‑ Naaman utilized the process of reasoning described above and concluded that there was but one God. This is evident from the following observations: He possessed factual evidence of God’s power apart from an emotional/feeling basis (v. 11,15).  He then found a consistency about that factual data and this consistency could not be denied (v.13‑14). He next arrived at an explanation, from the facts and experiences, that prescribed a certain behavior (v.15‑17).

Prior to a belief in Jehovah God, Naaman struggled with the emptiness and void of Atheistic philosophy. But after he changed his world view his life was full and satisfying. He could leave “in peace” (v. 19) because he had found the one true God. Such a transition from total loss to great gain remains possible for all honest searchers today!

The Results And Consequences Of This Series

The issue of Atheism and Theism is not a matter for intellectuals to bandy about in debates. This issue touches every human being. The far‑reaching scope of this series is evident in three points . . .

First, in choosing between these two philosophies, one chooses between the essential dignity and ultimate destiny of mankind!

Atheism has only the dreariest prospect for humanity. Theism holds the only hope for mankind. Here is where the atheist  must face the honest cruelty of his position!

Second, one’s choice between these two philosophies will decide the potential for either irretrievable loss or inestimatable gain.

Should one choose Atheism there is no hope, meaning, or significance. How can a reasonable mind make such a choice?

Third, this choice reflect either the willingness or reluctance to admit one’s need for God.

The atheist often rejects God not because of intellectual reasoning or factual evidence, but because of a self‑willed arrogance. History epitomizes such in the “Romantic” Poets. Ironically their writings portray the hollowness of their positions. Shelly’s “Ozymandias” depicts the futility of atheistic arrogance. The statue speaks these disconcerting words :

‘My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings: Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!’
Nothing besides remains. Round the decay Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away.

Shelly’s portrayal of arrogant atheism is true. The choice of God’s existence or absence reveals a willingness or reluctance to humble self in acknowledging the need for God’s strength.

Concluding Thoughts

Man’s worldview decides his purpose and happiness in life. The only reasonable worldview is that which sees earthly life as a preparation period for heavenly splendor. This leads one to see God’s handiwork in earth (Ac 17:24‑28). It leads us to see that God does exist (Da 2:28a). It prescribes the need for all humans to view their world from the philosophy of Theism. Such a program is illustrated in haughty Nebuchadnezzar who finally changed his worldview to admit Theism (cf Da 2:47; 4:34‑37).

Viewing earthly life with a God‑centered view allows us to see the Almighty’s compassion, desire to be known by mortals, and willingness to restore fallen man (cf Ac 17:27; Jn 3:16). From the Christian worldview it is not accidental that in the beginning a compassionate God created man for fellowship in the bliss of Eden. Is not accidental that a compassionate God closes the last Book of the Bible with the same compassion exhorting man to “Come!” (Rv 22:17).  [2]
[1] (Elon Foster, New Cyclopedia Of Prose Illustrations. New York: Funk & Wagnalls, 1877, p. 52). Charney is an excellent illustration of how Atheism’s “total loss” can become Faith’s “great gain”!

[2] For further reading and research on this lesson

Origins And Destiny, Dr. Robert Gange. Word Publishing, 1986.

Christianity And Liberalism, J. Gresham Machen. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1923.

A Shattered Visage: The Real Face Of Atheism, Ravi Zacharias.  Wolgemuth & Hyatt, Publishers, Inc., 1990.

[1] (Elon Foster, New Cyclopedia Of Prose Illustrations. New York: Funk & Wagnalls, 1877, p. 52). Charney is an excellent illustration of how Atheism’s “total loss” can become Faith’s “great gain”!

[2] For further reading and research on this lesson

Origins And Destiny, Dr. Robert Gange. Word Publishing, 1986.

Christianity And Liberalism, J. Gresham Machen. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1923.

A Shattered Visage: The Real Face Of Atheism, Ravi Zacharias.  Wolgemuth & Hyatt, Publishers, Inc., 1990.

Rousseau’s atheism is well known. Also well known is the despair which clouded his later years. Evidence of this is found in this quotation.

“I now found myself, in the decline of life, a prey to tormenting maladies, and believing myself at the close of my career without having once tasted the sublime pleasures after which my heart panted. Why was it that, with a soul naturally expansive, whose very existence was benevolence, I never found one single friend with feelings like my own? A prey to the cravings of a heart which have never been satisfied, I perceived myself arrived at the confines of old age, and dying ere I had begun to live. I considered destiny as in my debt for promises which she had never realized. Why was I created with faculties so refined, yet which were never intended to be adequately employed? I felt my own value, and revenged myself of my fate by recollecting and shedding tears for its injustice.”

 

The search for meaningful existence is what Rousseau vainly strove to discover. His empty conclusion has been the lot of millions who tried to explain life’s meaning apart from God’s existence. This search for “meaning” has long plagued man.

 

In recent years the radical 60’s brought this into clear focus. Numerous “encounters” were suggested to a gullible generation as the means to discover meaning and purpose in life. Others retreated to groups who attempted to explain “meaning” in absurd terms (the “beatnicks” or the “hippies”). Still others tried psychedelia only finding a greater emptiness in their search for a reason of meaningful existence on Earth.

 

These futile efforts illustrate another tragic failure of Atheism – it leads to existence with no purpose or meaning! Atheism cannot tell us the meaning of life for it has rejected God who alone gives meaning to life. In the end Atheism offers a view of life which results in monotony, tediousness, and futility!

 

The tragic meaninglessness of Atheism is found in Lord Byron’s last poem, written three months before his

death. It is titled, “On This Day I Completed My Thirty‑Sixth Year.” His devotion to atheistic principles led him to despair of life at the young age of thirty‑six.  Listen to his dispirited words,

My days are in the yellow leaf; The flowers and fruits of Love are gone;

The worm, the canker, and the grief Are mine alone!

 

However  man does not have to face the gloom of Byron and Rosseau as life on Earth is lived. There is another option which gives life meaning and makes it rich, rewarding, and pleasurable. It is a belief that there is a God in heaven. It is a life lived with assurance in the Almighty’s existence, sovereignty, and lovingkindness.

 

Consider these two options as one considers the question of life’s meaning. Common sense will dictate the foolishness of Atheism and the promise of Theism.

 

The Futile Option ‑ ATHEISM!

First, we are told to change our attitudes and meaning will be found in life!

The old cliche orders us, “If life gives you a lemon, make lemonade!” This is the only prescription offered by Atheism. It suggests that our thought process will change everything that is uncomfortable in life. We are told that our inner‑vision can lift us above life’s petty ills. But there is a big problem with this counsel – changing one’s attitude does not erase the haunting question, “Why am I here?” A change of attitude does not replace aimless existence with a defined agenda for living. The monotony and pointlessness of life remains no matter how successful we become at ignoring this real question!

 

Trying to find meaning to life without God by changing your attitude makes about as much sense as changing the deck chairs on the Titanic! Man needs more than an adjusted attitude to make life meaningful. He needs more than a change in scenery to tranquilize his cancerous boredom!

 

Second, it is suggested that we avoid questioning life’s meaning.

This approach encourages us to ignore the issue. Atheism claims that real “meaning” in life is subjective and cannot be measured with objectivity. But then how can Atheism contend that some lives are not “worth” living (i.e.  those born impaired, the aged, the incurable, or others that Atheism justifies as subjects for euthanasia)?  How can Atheism contend that some lives are “worth” living while others are “worthless” if we cannot ask for meaning?  Again, ignoring this issue does not give life meaning and value. Ignoring the question requires humans to live as unthinking robots. Voltaire’s remark reveals the absurdity of Atheism trying to ignore the question of life’s meaning. “Man is a stranger to his own research. He knows not whence he comes, nor whither he goes. Tormented atoms in a bed of mud, devoured by death, a mockery of fate.” (Quoted by Zacharias, p. 81). Trying to answer the question of life’s meaning by ignoring it only brings great despair!

 

Third, pursuing pleasure will give meaning to life.

We are told that the panacea of all trials, futility, tediousness, and frustration is pleasure. But this answer is lacking satisfaction. Some will party through life and find compounded emptiness. Pleasure alone cannot free us from the agony of meaningless existence. Our modern society has access to all that should make life pleasurable – labors are lightened, medical advances are astonishing, and entertainment is abundant.  Modern man is freed from the thousands of tyrannies that once spoiled happiness. You would think that those living in our modern age would be the most contented of all civilizations.  But even with access to these wonderful advancements, modern man finds greater apathy, terrifying fears, and agonizing emptiness.  His chains of meaningless existence have not been broken!  Why? “When the pleasure button is repeatedly pressed and can no longer deliver or sustain, the emptiness that results is terrifying” [Zacharias, p. 86]. While Atheism advises us that when we find pleasure we will find meaning, the tragic reality is that meaningful existence is never found!

 

Fourth, success in life brings meaning.

It is suggested that once we “have made it” then life will have meaning. But this is another of Atheism’s lies. Millions of lives testify to the fact that success in business, riches in material goods, fame and glory do not bring meaning to life. The best illustration of this is found in the acclaimed film “Chariots Of Fire” which chronicled the British 1924 Olympic Track team. Two men (Eric Liddle and H.S. Abrahams) provided and amazing contrast. Liddle, later a missionary to China, had purpose and meaning in life. He ran to bring God the glory. But Abrahams had no real purpose or meaning in life.  He struggled with the nagging question of existence.  In the movie he confessed, just before winning the gold, “I have ten seconds to prove the reason for my existence, and even then, I’m not sure I will.” He won the gold. He became the “world’s fastest man.” But his meaning for existence was no clearer!

 

Wall Street and Hollywood are filled with illustrations of how success does not bring meaning to life. Again Atheism fails to answer the pressing issue.  Atheism thus tells us that life’s meaning can be found in an attitude change, pleasure, success, or creativity. But these things only bring feelings of greater futility! Meaning and purpose in life cannot be found in these phantoms of hope.  Our society is wandering aimlessly and drowning in despair because it has followed the piping of Atheism.

 

The Other Option ‑ GOD!

Thankfully we are not left with the futility of Atheism to explain life’s meaning. Belief in God is able to offer meaning and purpose to life. The Book of Ecclesiastes holds the explanation to the pressing question of life’s meaning.

 

Ecclesiastes is a book about life that was written by a realist. Solomon is the author and he discusses all aspects of life in an effort to explain the purpose and meaning for living. Throughout this marvelous book one will find discussions about life’s frustrations, pseudo‑success, sexuality, jobs, justice, friends, religion, joy, suffering, and emptiness. We are told that some people will find earthly life void of meaning and they become cynical. Others will view life as refreshing and fulfilling. What is the difference between these two groups? How can some see the same existence in such diverse ways? The difference is in one’s view of God. Those who have a belief in God are drastically different from those who reject God’s existence. This difference is especially visible as the two groups look at life’s meaning.

 

Those who reject God will find life empty. Such will live selfishly and never find satisfaction. Solomon portrays this group in tragic terms.

(1) They utter a groan of abject futility ‑”Futility of futilities! All is futility” (1:2). They find no meaning, only despair.

 

(2) Their lives are unable to find meaning in success. In 2:1‑11 Solomon describes how success was impotent. He had it all ‑ “all that my eyes desired I did not refuse them. I did not withhold my heart from any pleasure” (2:10). After he had immersed himself in all desires; after his success had brought him to the pinnacle of fame, “I considered all my activities which my hands had done and the labor which I had exerted, and behold all was futility and striving after wind and there was no profit under the sun” (2:11).

 

(3) They rest upon knowledge and wisdom to bring meaning but it too fails them (2:12‑17). After Solomon experienced the emptiness of materialism he sought to find meaning through wisdom (2:17). But that too failed.  “So I hated life, for the work which had been done under the sun was grievous to me; because everything is futility and striving after wind” (2:17).

 

(4) The utter ruin of a meaningless existence awaited for those who rejected God.  “Therefore I completely despaired of all the fruit of my labor for which I had labored under the sun” (2:20; cf 5:15).

 

This is how Ecclesiastes depicts those who live by Atheism’s tenets. They will find no joy in life and have no hope in death. Such an existence is pointless. No wonder Solomon emphatically pronounced it as “Futility!

 

Ecclesiastes emphatically states that life has meaning. But meaning is only possible when one believes in God.  12:13 announces this joyful news. “Duty” has been added to our English text to fill the sentence. Literally the verses reads, “This is every man;” “This is the whole of man.” Thus Solomon is saying that fearing God and obeying the Sovereign’s will “is that which makes man whole, complete, or full.” No one is complete, whole, full without a proper relationship with God. This relationship comes only by fearing God and keeping His commands.

 

According to Ecclesiastes, if you live life without God, then it is not worth living! Life without God is filled with monotony, vain wisdom, future wrath, and certain death! Those who live life with God find a very different end. Living in fear and obedience to God makes earthly existence valuable and rich! (cf 2:24,25; 3:12,13,22; 5:19; 8:15; 9:7‑9; 11:9). The key to finding meaning and purpose in life is to fear God and keep His commands. Solomon’s investigation found this to be “the conclusion.” There is not other answer.

 

A most interesting fact emerges from Ecclesiastes. Everything that increases the emptiness of Atheism’s philosophy, adds joy to those who believe and obey God. Remember we are told that Atheism urges us to change our attitudes to find meaning in life, but a change of attitude does not answer the issue of existence. But when God is factored into the question we are told that attitude changes will bring great joy! (cf 11:5,8; 7:16,17,21). We are told to ignore the question of life’s meaning by Atheism only to discover that it cannot be ignored. But when God is factored into the question we discover that life’s meaning can be found ‑ “this is the whole of man” (12:13b). We were told by Atheism that pleasure pursued will bring meaning only to discover that pleasure pursued brings emptiness. But when God is factored into the issue pleasure enhances earthly joy (9:7‑9). Atheism told us that success would bring meaning to life. But success brought only grief and despair. However when God is factored into the question, success compounds joy and purpose (11:1).

 

Concluding Thoughts

What makes human existence meaningful? According to William Glasser, “There are two qualities which add meaning to life: the need to love and be loved and, the need to feel that we are worthwhile to ourselves and others.” (Reality Therapy. New York: Harper & Row Pub., 1965, p. 9). Solomon told us this long ago in Ecclesiastes 12:13,14!

 

A life that has meaning in existence also possesses great value. This is possible because of the following points.  First, a fear of God brings one into a proper relationship with Him. This “fear” is an awe and reverence. This “fear” puts God in a proper place of authority for guiding earthly life. Second, keeping His commands reveals a consistent lifestyle and assures of great joy (cf Ps 119:97). Third, life will be lived with a view to God’s Judgement. Every deed will be judged by the Holy Father. This reveals that God is concerned enough about me to inspect all of my life. His concern about every aspect of my life underscores the fact that my life has meaning and value!

 

Those who ignore and reject God will face earthly existence with a fear that life holds neither value or meaning. Honesty compels them to view themselves as “Tormented atoms in a bed of mud, devoured by death, a mockery of fate.” The Atheist must face “The Conclusion” of Ecclesiastes 12:13. The choice for all is clear – it is either Ecclesiastes 1:2 or Ecclesiates 12:13. What is your purpose and meaning for earthly existence?

       

New Sunday morning class 9:30 a.m.

Combining this study with Psalm study