Church Blogs (Page 2)

There is one baptism commanded of all accountable people (Ephesians 4:5).  That is the correct, true baptism of the New Testament to last until the end of time (Matthew 28:18-20).  Peter wrote of making one’s calling and election sure, and we certainly want to make baptism sure.  The matter is too important to be otherwise.  One cannot afford to be wrong about it.  This baptism puts one into Christ (Galatians 3:27), puts one in contact with the blood of Christ…

The treasurer of a local congregation was disgusted and resigned. The church asked another person to take the position. He managed a local grain elevator. He agreed to take the position on two conditions. One, that no report from the treasurer be given for a whole year, and two, that no one ask him any questions concerning the finances of the church during that time. The church members gulped, but finally agreed, since he was a very trustworthy man in…

During the war between the states, a young woman learned the truth and obeyed the gospel.  Her sweetheart, J. H. Halbrook, was a confederate soldier.  He was captured by the union army and kept a prisoner in Michigan until the war was over.  He was given a ticket to Nashville, Tennessee and $2.50.  From there, he returned to Centerville and found what was left of his home and family.  He found his girlfriend and they were married.  His wife studied…

A praying church is a growing church. That’s just the way it works. Jesus prayed (Mark 1:35; Luke 6:12); Paul prayed (Philippians 1:3, 4; I Thessalonians 1:2); Cornelius prayed (Acts 10:2). Great people and great congregations pray. This is the reason Prayer is the Practice of a Great Congregation. I. We must believe in prayer. A. Jesus taught we should believe in prayer (Matthew 21:22). B. James emphasized that we are to pray in faith (James 1:5-7; 5:15). C. John…

It is said that Cyrus, the founder of the Persian Empire, once captured a prince and his family. When they came before him, the monarch asked the prisoner, “What will you give me if I release you?” “The half of my wealth,” was his reply. “And if I release your children?” “Everything I possess.” “And if I release your wife?” “Your Majesty, I will give myself.” Cyrus was so moved by his devotion that he freed them all. As they…

All of us should be concerned about being faithful to God. It is easy to get sidetracked. Here are a few identifying marks of a backslider: A backslider forgets to read his Bible. Previously, it had a vital place in his life. Now he cuts himself off from his spiritual nourishment. He says he is too busy. A backslider ceases to pray. No longer does he ask God for wisdom and guidance-or to bless others and to forgive his sins.…

Introduction: In a busy world it is easy to lose our focus. For example, most parents are running their children to one sport’s activity after another. There seems to be little time for anything else. It takes special effort to maintain and improve our spirituality. I want to give five simple ways to help you improve the spirituality of your family. I. It begins with desire (II Chronicles 15:15; I Peter 2:2). A. You must want to improve the spirituality…

Purpose: To point out the need to return to the New Testament and be members of the Lord’s church. 1. It was built by Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church…” (Matthew 16:18). 2. It is scriptural in name. Paul said, “…the churches of Christ salute you” (Romans 16:16). 3. Christ is its only head. Paul said, “And hath put all things under his…

Introduction: We live in a society where many are saying it is vain to serve God. Our study today will show the great rewards of serving God.    I. God rewards those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). See also Matthew 6:6. II. God rewards those who do good (Ephesians 6:8). See also Luke 6:35; Matthew 25:34-40. III. God rewards those who are obedient (Psalm 19:11). See also Hebrews 5:8, 9. IV. God rewards those who practice self-denial (Mark 10:28-30).…

Purpose: To cause us to appreciate the Cross of Christ more. I. The cross was both ugly and beautiful.    A. It was ugly because our sins were hanging there in the person of Jesus        (Matthew 1:21; I Peter 2:24; II Corinthians 5:21).    B. It was beautiful because it was our savior hanging there, dying for our sins       (Titus 2:14; I John 4:14; Revelation 1:5).    C. It was ugly in that it…