the need of loyalty to jesus christ n throughout history men have had a resistance to listening and...

The Need of Loyalty to Jesus ChristThe Need of Loyalty to Jesus Christ

Throughout history men have had a Throughout history men have had a resistance to listening and obeying.resistance to listening and obeying.



Men have found it easier to substitute other Men have found it easier to substitute other things for a careful study of His word. things for a careful study of His word.



Men have found it easier to substitute other Men have found it easier to substitute other things for a careful study of His word. things for a careful study of His word.

When we find the truth we must stand for it When we find the truth we must stand for it lest we give it up because of pressures from lest we give it up because of pressures from men.men.


We realize that God's way is not easy, but it We realize that God's way is not easy, but it is the only way God can work with us and is the only way God can work with us and make us right with Him. make us right with Him. (Luke 6:46‑49)(Luke 6:46‑49)



Men have substituted their loyalty for God Men have substituted their loyalty for God for loyalty with other things. for loyalty with other things.



Men have substituted their loyalty for God Men have substituted their loyalty for God for loyalty with other things. for loyalty with other things.

Consider some common substitutions.Consider some common substitutions.


Loyalty to a churchLoyalty to a church ‑ Often church ‑ Often church traditions and church doctrines will not be traditions and church doctrines will not be given up or even be tested by a study of the given up or even be tested by a study of the Bible.Bible.


Loyalty to a churchLoyalty to a church ‑ Often church ‑ Often church traditions and church doctrines will not be traditions and church doctrines will not be given up or even be tested by a study of the given up or even be tested by a study of the Bible.Bible.

Loyalty to a manLoyalty to a man ‑ Sometimes devotion to ‑ Sometimes devotion to a famous preacher, a close friend, or a a famous preacher, a close friend, or a famous editor causes one to refuse to test or famous editor causes one to refuse to test or go against their teachings.go against their teachings.


Loyalty to familyLoyalty to family ‑ Many simply follow in ‑ Many simply follow in the way they were raised without a the way they were raised without a willingness to test their religion. In some willingness to test their religion. In some cases if the family makes a change, loyalty cases if the family makes a change, loyalty to the family means following without to the family means following without question.question.


Loyalty to selfLoyalty to self ‑ Without question this is ‑ Without question this is the most common loyalty that keeps men the most common loyalty that keeps men from listening to God. Study and change is from listening to God. Study and change is time consuming, often emotionally time consuming, often emotionally draining, and requires strong faith and love draining, and requires strong faith and love for God and His word. It is usually easier to for God and His word. It is usually easier to follow the established pattern. follow the established pattern.


Loyalty to selfLoyalty to self ‑ Without question this is the ‑ Without question this is the most common loyalty that keeps men from most common loyalty that keeps men from listening to God. Study and change is time listening to God. Study and change is time consuming, often emotionally draining, and consuming, often emotionally draining, and requires strong faith and love for God and His requires strong faith and love for God and His word. It is usually easier to follow the established word. It is usually easier to follow the established pattern. pattern.

The question each of us must face: "Am I willing The question each of us must face: "Am I willing to listen to Jesus Christ?“to listen to Jesus Christ?“


The focus of this study will be "What saith The focus of this study will be "What saith the Lord?".the Lord?".


The focus of this study will be "What saith The focus of this study will be "What saith the Lord".the Lord".

Since we will be dealing with controversial Since we will be dealing with controversial issues, it will be necessary to constantly issues, it will be necessary to constantly examine and be sure our focus is on the examine and be sure our focus is on the scriptures and not away from them.scriptures and not away from them.


The focus of this study will be "What saith The focus of this study will be "What saith the Lord".the Lord".

Since we will be dealing with controversial Since we will be dealing with controversial issues, it will be necessary to constantly issues, it will be necessary to constantly examine and be sure our focus is on the examine and be sure our focus is on the scriptures and not away from them.scriptures and not away from them.

Let us be careful to keep listening to the Lord, Let us be careful to keep listening to the Lord, and show respect for each other as we study.and show respect for each other as we study.

How to Realize the Unity Which God Commands.How to Realize the Unity Which God Commands.

We need to place importance upon the We need to place importance upon the things which were important to our things which were important to our Lord. Lord. (John 17:20‑23)(John 17:20‑23)



Is unity possible?Is unity possible?



Is unity possible?Is unity possible? Yes, for those who listen to Christ!Yes, for those who listen to Christ!



Is unity possible?Is unity possible? Yes, for those who listen to Christ!Yes, for those who listen to Christ! What kind of unity does Christ expect? What kind of unity does Christ expect?

(1 Cor 1: 10)(1 Cor 1: 10)


Not just a vague belief in the deity of Not just a vague belief in the deity of Christ, but rather "speak the same thing", Christ, but rather "speak the same thing", "be of the same mind"."be of the same mind".


Not just a vague belief in the deity of Not just a vague belief in the deity of Christ, but rather "speak the same thing", Christ, but rather "speak the same thing", "be of the same mind"."be of the same mind".

Again this is only possible for those willing Again this is only possible for those willing to make the effort, to study, pray, listen and to make the effort, to study, pray, listen and forbear with others!forbear with others!


Not just a vague belief in the deity of Christ, Not just a vague belief in the deity of Christ, but rather "speak the same thing", "be of the but rather "speak the same thing", "be of the same mind".same mind".

Again this is only possible for those willing Again this is only possible for those willing to make the effort, to study, pray, listen and to make the effort, to study, pray, listen and forbear with others!forbear with others!

We cannot delegate our responsibility to We cannot delegate our responsibility to preachers through their public efforts. preachers through their public efforts.


While such studies are good, we still must While such studies are good, we still must always be willing to open our Bibles with always be willing to open our Bibles with others.others.



Unity is accomplished one individual at a Unity is accomplished one individual at a time! time!



Unity is accomplished one individual at a time! Unity is accomplished one individual at a time! While I cannot change what others may do, I While I cannot change what others may do, I

can be sure I am following the Lord. This will can be sure I am following the Lord. This will produce unity among those of the same mind.produce unity among those of the same mind.


The greatest hindrance to unity today in the The greatest hindrance to unity today in the church is the general unwillingness to open church is the general unwillingness to open the Bible in the home with family, brethren, the Bible in the home with family, brethren, the lost, or anyone else!the lost, or anyone else!


The greatest hindrance to unity today in the The greatest hindrance to unity today in the church is the general unwillingness to open church is the general unwillingness to open the Bible in the home with family, brethren, the Bible in the home with family, brethren, the lost, or anyone else!the lost, or anyone else!

Let us identify things that do not produce Let us identify things that do not produce unity.unity.


The greatest hindrance to unity today in the The greatest hindrance to unity today in the church is the general unwillingness to open the church is the general unwillingness to open the Bible in the home with family, brethren, the Bible in the home with family, brethren, the lost, or anyone else!lost, or anyone else!

Let us identify things that do not produce unity.Let us identify things that do not produce unity. Ignoring the fact division existsIgnoring the fact division exists ‑ Like the ‑ Like the

ostrich, some put their heads into the ground ostrich, some put their heads into the ground and hope problems go away.and hope problems go away.


Many try to redefine the gospel to rule out Many try to redefine the gospel to rule out the need of study. the need of study.


Many try to redefine the gospel to rule out Many try to redefine the gospel to rule out the need of study. the need of study.

Some things are "essential" and should be Some things are "essential" and should be studied, while others are "non‑essential" studied, while others are "non‑essential" and need not be studied.and need not be studied.


The question of what God expects of us is The question of what God expects of us is determined by the scriptures. If a subject is determined by the scriptures. If a subject is either "essential" or "non‑essential" this either "essential" or "non‑essential" this can only be determined by getting the Bible can only be determined by getting the Bible opened.opened.


Sadly, the purpose of this argument with Sadly, the purpose of this argument with some is to keep brethren from studying over some is to keep brethren from studying over an open Bible, the very thing that will an open Bible, the very thing that will produce unity.produce unity.


Sadly the purpose of this argument with Sadly the purpose of this argument with some is to keep brethren from studying over some is to keep brethren from studying over an open Bible, the very thing that will an open Bible, the very thing that will produce unity.produce unity.

Representing brethren as unworthy of Representing brethren as unworthy of studystudy ‑ Normally this is accomplished by ‑ Normally this is accomplished by name calling with the goal of arousing name calling with the goal of arousing prejudice. prejudice.


Some common names are; "Anti", Some common names are; "Anti", "Liberal", "extremist", "moss back", etc..."Liberal", "extremist", "moss back", etc...


Some common names are; "Anti", Some common names are; "Anti", "Liberal", "extremist", "moss back", etc..."Liberal", "extremist", "moss back", etc...

What do we mean by these names? Are we What do we mean by these names? Are we trying to communicate truth and understand trying to communicate truth and understand each other better? Or are we trying to each other better? Or are we trying to produce prejudice and build barriers to an produce prejudice and build barriers to an open study of the Bible?open study of the Bible?


Some common names are; "Anti", "Liberal", Some common names are; "Anti", "Liberal", "extremist", "moss back", etc..."extremist", "moss back", etc...

What do we mean by these names? Are we trying What do we mean by these names? Are we trying to communicate truth and understand each other to communicate truth and understand each other better? Or are we trying to produce prejudice better? Or are we trying to produce prejudice and build barriers to an open study of the Bible?and build barriers to an open study of the Bible?

Please treat each brother as an individual as Please treat each brother as an individual as worthy of study until he proves otherwise. worthy of study until he proves otherwise.


It is an unfair approach to block out a It is an unfair approach to block out a brother from consideration because of the brother from consideration because of the actions and bad attitudes of another. This is actions and bad attitudes of another. This is like getting mad at the dog and kicking the like getting mad at the dog and kicking the cat!cat!


It is an unfair approach to block out a It is an unfair approach to block out a brother from consideration because of the brother from consideration because of the actions and bad attitudes of another. This is actions and bad attitudes of another. This is like getting mad at the dog and kicking the like getting mad at the dog and kicking the cat!cat!

Listen to another before assuming you Listen to another before assuming you know what he believes. You may be know what he believes. You may be surprised at what you find out.surprised at what you find out.


Trying to browbeat or force your view by Trying to browbeat or force your view by a quick bombastic statement concerning a quick bombastic statement concerning one or two issuesone or two issues ‑ Some memorize a few ‑ Some memorize a few clichés and arguments and then feel that by clichés and arguments and then feel that by stating them, this satisfies responsibility for stating them, this satisfies responsibility for study.study.


Trying to browbeat or force your view by Trying to browbeat or force your view by a quick bombastic statement concerning a quick bombastic statement concerning one or two issuesone or two issues ‑ Some memorize a few ‑ Some memorize a few clichés and arguments and then feel that by clichés and arguments and then feel that by stating them, this satisfies responsibility for stating them, this satisfies responsibility for study.study.

Normally the Bible is never opened or at Normally the Bible is never opened or at most a brief look.most a brief look.


This approach will leave real differences This approach will leave real differences untouched. More heat than light is shed untouched. More heat than light is shed upon the "study". upon the "study".


This approach will leave real differences This approach will leave real differences untouched. More heat than light is shed untouched. More heat than light is shed upon the "study". upon the "study".

Remember that true unity is accomplished Remember that true unity is accomplished by carefully identifying each others by carefully identifying each others positions mid then going to the scriptures to positions mid then going to the scriptures to conform to the truth.conform to the truth.


This will take time! Because of this This will take time! Because of this patience, love and understanding are patience, love and understanding are essential to become of one mind.essential to become of one mind.


This will take time! Because of this This will take time! Because of this patience, love and understanding are patience, love and understanding are essential to become of one mind.essential to become of one mind.

The best approach is to begin the study The best approach is to begin the study from "common ground,” that is, areas in from "common ground,” that is, areas in which we agree. Then we can proceed to which we agree. Then we can proceed to the areas of disagreement.the areas of disagreement.

What Are the Issues?What Are the Issues?

In this section we wish to identify specific In this section we wish to identify specific issues that divide us.issues that divide us.



It is a serious mistake to represent only one It is a serious mistake to represent only one or two issues as the cause of division! or two issues as the cause of division!



It is a serious mistake to represent only one It is a serious mistake to represent only one or two issues as the cause of division! or two issues as the cause of division!

There are many areas of disagreement There are many areas of disagreement which must be recognized. which must be recognized.


In this section we wish to identify specific issues In this section we wish to identify specific issues that divide us.that divide us.

It is a serious mistake to represent only one or two It is a serious mistake to represent only one or two issues as the cause of division! issues as the cause of division!

There are many areas of disagreement which must There are many areas of disagreement which must be recognized. be recognized.

These differences will vary from individual to These differences will vary from individual to individual. Let us now attempt to identify some individual. Let us now attempt to identify some issues.issues.


At this point of our study we only want to At this point of our study we only want to recognize the differences and not to prove recognize the differences and not to prove what is right or wrong. By dealing with what is right or wrong. By dealing with these subjects in an orderly way, one at a these subjects in an orderly way, one at a time, we will be able to calmly study each time, we will be able to calmly study each subject. subject.


At this point of our study we only want to At this point of our study we only want to recognize the differences and not to prove recognize the differences and not to prove what is right or wrong. By dealing with these what is right or wrong. By dealing with these subjects in an orderly way, one at a time, we subjects in an orderly way, one at a time, we will be able to calmly study each subject. will be able to calmly study each subject.

One problem we must avoid is trying to One problem we must avoid is trying to create a cloud of dust and confusion by create a cloud of dust and confusion by jumping from subject to subject.jumping from subject to subject.


As an aid to identifying some issues let us As an aid to identifying some issues let us examine an article written by Floyd Decker examine an article written by Floyd Decker written in 1944. This article is not proof written in 1944. This article is not proof concerning right or wrong but it does show concerning right or wrong but it does show the changes that have occurred since that the changes that have occurred since that time.time.


"WHY I LEFT THE CHRISTIAN "WHY I LEFT THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH“ by Floyd A. Decker (1944)CHURCH“ by Floyd A. Decker (1944)


"WHY I LEFT THE CHRISTIAN "WHY I LEFT THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH“ by Floyd A. Decker (1944)CHURCH“ by Floyd A. Decker (1944)

The Christian Church has women The Christian Church has women Counselors, Directors, and Lecturers; the Counselors, Directors, and Lecturers; the church of Christ does not church of Christ does not (1 Tim 2:11,12;1 Cor 14:34).(1 Tim 2:11,12;1 Cor 14:34).


The Christian Church has educational The Christian Church has educational Directors, Associate Ministers and Youth Directors, Associate Ministers and Youth Directors; the church of Christ has elders, Directors; the church of Christ has elders, deacons, evangelists and teachers deacons, evangelists and teachers (Eph 4:11; Phil 1:1).(Eph 4:11; Phil 1:1).


The Christian Church has educational Directors, The Christian Church has educational Directors, Associate Ministers and Youth Directors; the Associate Ministers and Youth Directors; the church of Christ has elders, deacons, evangelists church of Christ has elders, deacons, evangelists and teachers and teachers (Eph 4:11; Phil 1:1).(Eph 4:11; Phil 1:1).

The Christian Church has Missionary, Benevolent, The Christian Church has Missionary, Benevolent, and Educational organizations to execute the work and Educational organizations to execute the work of the church; the church of Christ does not of the church; the church of Christ does not (Eph 4:4; 3:10,21).(Eph 4:4; 3:10,21).


The Christian Church celebrates days of The Christian Church celebrates days of heathen worship, such as Easter, Mother's heathen worship, such as Easter, Mother's Day, and Christmas; the church of Christ Day, and Christmas; the church of Christ does not does not (Gal 4:10).(Gal 4:10).


The Christian Church celebrates days of heathen The Christian Church celebrates days of heathen worship, such as Easter, Mother's Day, and worship, such as Easter, Mother's Day, and Christmas; the church of Christ does not Christmas; the church of Christ does not (Gal (Gal 4:10).4:10).

The Christian Church fellowships various The Christian Church fellowships various denominations in their activities, leaving the denominations in their activities, leaving the impression that all are brethren; the church of impression that all are brethren; the church of Christ does not.Christ does not. (Rom 1:16; 2 Jn 9‑11; Gal 1:6‑10)(Rom 1:16; 2 Jn 9‑11; Gal 1:6‑10)


The Christian Church seeks to get crowds The Christian Church seeks to get crowds with Youth Meetings, Campaigns for with Youth Meetings, Campaigns for Christ, Rallies, Drives and Promotions; the Christ, Rallies, Drives and Promotions; the church of Christ does not church of Christ does not (Rev 22:18‑19).(Rev 22:18‑19).


The Christian Church emphasizes society The Christian Church emphasizes society and the physical man by appealing to the and the physical man by appealing to the carnal nature‑‑with church carnivals, bands, carnal nature‑‑with church carnivals, bands, plays, choruses, dramatics, church kitchens, plays, choruses, dramatics, church kitchens, church camps, and elaborate fellowship church camps, and elaborate fellowship halls; the church of Christ does not halls; the church of Christ does not (1 Cor 10:7; 11:22‑34; Rom 14:17).(1 Cor 10:7; 11:22‑34; Rom 14:17).


The Christian Church elevates its preachers The Christian Church elevates its preachers above the rest of the members by using above the rest of the members by using such titles as Pastor, Superintendent, such titles as Pastor, Superintendent, President, Doctor, and Reverend; the church President, Doctor, and Reverend; the church of Christ does not of Christ does not (Mt 23:5‑12; Job 32:21, (Mt 23:5‑12; Job 32:21, 22).22).


The Christian Church takes up collections at The Christian Church takes up collections at services other than on the first day of the week, services other than on the first day of the week, and uses unscriptural means such as suppers, and uses unscriptural means such as suppers, property rentals, and special collections to property rentals, and special collections to raise money for the church; the church of raise money for the church; the church of Christ follows 1Christ follows 1 Cor 16:1‑2 Cor 16:1‑2 by having each by having each member lay by in store on the first day of the member lay by in store on the first day of the week. This is the only way of raising money.week. This is the only way of raising money.


The Christian church misuses the name The Christian church misuses the name "Christian" (a noun) by speaking of "Christian" (a noun) by speaking of "Christian nations", "Christian schools", "Christian nations", "Christian schools", and the "Christian Church "; the church of and the "Christian Church "; the church of Christ does not Christ does not (Acts 11:26; 26:28; 1 Pt 4:16).(Acts 11:26; 26:28; 1 Pt 4:16).


The Christian Church owns and operates The Christian Church owns and operates publishing houses, radio stations, hospitals, publishing houses, radio stations, hospitals, and other Benevolent Societies,' the church and other Benevolent Societies,' the church of Christ build nothing but churches of Christ build nothing but churches (Eph 3:21).(Eph 3:21).


The Christian Church owns, supports, and The Christian Church owns, supports, and operates schools for secular education, operates schools for secular education, beginning with kindergartens and going all beginning with kindergartens and going all the way through theological seminaries; the the way through theological seminaries; the church of Christ does not church of Christ does not (1 Tim 3:15).(1 Tim 3:15).


The Christian Church has a compromising attitude The Christian Church has a compromising attitude and spirit, will not defend its doctrine, is nothing but and spirit, will not defend its doctrine, is nothing but a man‑made denomination, has no regard for the a man‑made denomination, has no regard for the authority of the Bible, bases its practice on the authority of the Bible, bases its practice on the silence of the scriptures, and appeals to the silence of the scriptures, and appeals to the traditions of the elders rather than the simple traditions of the elders rather than the simple unadulterated gospel of Jesus Christ. the Christian unadulterated gospel of Jesus Christ. the Christian Church is no part of the N. T church, and should not Church is no part of the N. T church, and should not be regarded as a friend of Christ nor of the truth.be regarded as a friend of Christ nor of the truth.


Be sure your understand not just what name Be sure your understand not just what name the issues go by but what they mean!the issues go by but what they mean!


Be sure your understand not just what name Be sure your understand not just what name the issues go by but what they mean!the issues go by but what they mean!

On one occasion after reading this article On one occasion after reading this article publicly, a young lady left the services publicly, a young lady left the services believing I was against supporting believing I was against supporting "missionaries" because of the article "missionaries" because of the article mentioned missionary societies!mentioned missionary societies!


I recommend reading concerning the issues I recommend reading concerning the issues and attitudes that brought about the division and attitudes that brought about the division producing the Christian Church around the producing the Christian Church around the turn of the century (1900).turn of the century (1900).


I recommend reading concerning the issues I recommend reading concerning the issues and attitudes that brought about the division and attitudes that brought about the division producing the Christian Church around the producing the Christian Church around the turn of the century (1900).turn of the century (1900).

There may be other areas of study to add to There may be other areas of study to add to this list. One other area I would add is the this list. One other area I would add is the arrangement called "the Sponsoring arrangement called "the Sponsoring Church."Church."

The Attitude God Requires of Us Toward The BibleThe Attitude God Requires of Us Toward The Bible

The Bible Is Complete The Bible Is Complete (2 Tim 3:16‑17)(2 Tim 3:16‑17)


The Bible Is Complete The Bible Is Complete (2 Tim 3:16‑17)(2 Tim 3:16‑17) The Bible is a product of the Spirit of God. The Bible is a product of the Spirit of God.

(John 16:13)(John 16:13)



(John 16:13)(John 16:13) God's provisions are always complete and God's provisions are always complete and

sufficient for the purpose He wills. sufficient for the purpose He wills.



(John 16:13)(John 16:13) God's provisions are always complete and God's provisions are always complete and

sufficient for the purpose He wills. sufficient for the purpose He wills. To reflect upon the completeness of the To reflect upon the completeness of the

scriptures is to reflect upon God Himself. scriptures is to reflect upon God Himself. (2 Peter 1:3)(2 Peter 1:3)


The Bible can and must be understood by The Bible can and must be understood by each of us. Would God command us to each of us. Would God command us to understand a book that is beyond our ability understand a book that is beyond our ability to understand? The answer we give reveals to understand? The answer we give reveals our understanding of God.our understanding of God.(Eph 3:3‑5; 5:17)(Eph 3:3‑5; 5:17)


The Bible can and must be understood by The Bible can and must be understood by each of us. Would God command us to each of us. Would God command us to understand a book that is beyond our ability understand a book that is beyond our ability to understand? The answer we give reveals to understand? The answer we give reveals our understanding of God.our understanding of God.(Eph 3:3‑5; 5:17)(Eph 3:3‑5; 5:17)

Let us then not fear understanding but Let us then not fear understanding but rather seek it.rather seek it.


The Bible can and must be understood by each of The Bible can and must be understood by each of us. Would God command us to understand a book us. Would God command us to understand a book that is beyond our ability to understand? The that is beyond our ability to understand? The answer we give reveals our understanding of God.answer we give reveals our understanding of God.(Eph 3:3‑5; 5:17)(Eph 3:3‑5; 5:17)

Let us then not fear understanding but rather seek Let us then not fear understanding but rather seek it.it.

Respect Is Demanded For God's WordRespect Is Demanded For God's Word


Some say "I love Jesus", but refuse to be Some say "I love Jesus", but refuse to be examined by His word. Again your attitude examined by His word. Again your attitude towards God's word is your attitude towards towards God's word is your attitude towards Jesus! Jesus! (John 12:48)(John 12:48)


Some say "I love Jesus", but refuse to be Some say "I love Jesus", but refuse to be examined by His word. Again your attitude examined by His word. Again your attitude towards God's word is your attitude towards towards God's word is your attitude towards Jesus! Jesus! (John 12:48)(John 12:48)

Since I have that confidence in God I will Since I have that confidence in God I will not be afraid to stand upon God's word not be afraid to stand upon God's word alone.alone.


God will not tolerate anyone tampering God will not tolerate anyone tampering with His word. The principle taught in this with His word. The principle taught in this verse is also taught in verses throughout the verse is also taught in verses throughout the Bible. Bible. (Rev 22:18-19)(Rev 22:18-19)


God will not tolerate anyone tampering God will not tolerate anyone tampering with His word. The principle taught in this with His word. The principle taught in this verse is also taught in verses throughout the verse is also taught in verses throughout the Bible. Bible. (Rev 22:18-19)(Rev 22:18-19)

No stronger language is found in the No stronger language is found in the scriptures than to condemn those who will scriptures than to condemn those who will tamper with His word. tamper with His word. (Gal 1:6-10)(Gal 1:6-10)


God will not tolerate anyone tampering with God will not tolerate anyone tampering with His word. The principle taught in this verse is His word. The principle taught in this verse is also taught in verses throughout the Bible. also taught in verses throughout the Bible. (Rev 22:18-19)(Rev 22:18-19)

No stronger language is found in the No stronger language is found in the scriptures than to condemn those who will scriptures than to condemn those who will tamper with His word. tamper with His word. (Gal 1:6-10)(Gal 1:6-10)

Two questions we need to ask: Two questions we need to ask: (Mt 15:3-9)(Mt 15:3-9)


How do we take away from the scriptures?How do we take away from the scriptures?


How do we take away from the scriptures?How do we take away from the scriptures? As an example, how does the use of As an example, how does the use of

instrumental music in worship fit into the instrumental music in worship fit into the above questions? Why? above questions? Why? (2 John 9-11)(2 John 9-11)




Notice the ASV version of this scripture: Notice the ASV version of this scripture: "Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not "Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God..." in the teaching of Christ, hath not God..."




Notice the ASV version of this scripture: Notice the ASV version of this scripture: "Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in "Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God..." the teaching of Christ, hath not God..."

How does one "goeth onward"? How does one "goeth onward"?


Do you see how our attitude toward the Do you see how our attitude toward the completeness of scripture and our completeness of scripture and our willingness to abide only in what it teaches willingness to abide only in what it teaches is essential to our salvation? Notice the is essential to our salvation? Notice the consequences, "Whosoever .... hath not consequences, "Whosoever .... hath not God".God".


What is our response? To trust God and test What is our response? To trust God and test every practice by the scripture is the only every practice by the scripture is the only response of saving faith. "Speak Lord thy response of saving faith. "Speak Lord thy servant heareth" servant heareth"


Consider some old testament examples of Consider some old testament examples of wrong attitudes.wrong attitudes.



Notice that the Devil added only one word.Notice that the Devil added only one word. (Gen 2:17; 3:4) (Gen 2:17; 3:4)




Consider several questions concerning Consider several questions concerning Nadab and Abihu. Nadab and Abihu. (Lev 10:1-4)(Lev 10:1-4)




Consider several questions concerning Nadab Consider several questions concerning Nadab and Abihu. and Abihu. (Lev 10:1-4)(Lev 10:1-4)

Were these two young men worshiping the Were these two young men worshiping the one true God?one true God?


Was offering incense something God had Was offering incense something God had commanded? commanded? (Lev 16:12‑13) (Lev 16:12‑13)



What then is "strange fire" (KJV) or What then is "strange fire" (KJV) or "profane fire" (NKJV)?"profane fire" (NKJV)?



What then is "strange fire" (KJV) or What then is "strange fire" (KJV) or "profane fire" (NKJV)?"profane fire" (NKJV)?

What did Aaron understand about the death What did Aaron understand about the death of his sons?of his sons?


It is important to see that God does not have It is important to see that God does not have to say: "Thou shall not.." in order for to say: "Thou shall not.." in order for something to be wrong. They had no something to be wrong. They had no commandment or authority from God, commandment or authority from God, therefore it was sin.therefore it was sin.


Look at all the arguments Saul made against Look at all the arguments Saul made against doing exactly what God has said. doing exactly what God has said. (1 Sam 15:1‑4, 18‑24) (1 Sam 15:1‑4, 18‑24)


Look at all the arguments Saul made against Look at all the arguments Saul made against doing exactly what God has said. doing exactly what God has said. (1 Sam 15:1‑4, 18‑24) (1 Sam 15:1‑4, 18‑24)

Was Saul excused because of the peer Was Saul excused because of the peer pressure he felt? pressure he felt? (v15, 21, 24)(v15, 21, 24)


Does this mean that God may hold me Does this mean that God may hold me accountable if I go along with unscriptural accountable if I go along with unscriptural teachings and practices at my local church?teachings and practices at my local church?



Does the end justify the means? Does the end justify the means? (v15, 21, (v15, 21, 22)22) That is, can I do evil that good may That is, can I do evil that good may come? come? (Rom 3:8)(Rom 3:8)



Does the end justify the means? Does the end justify the means? (v15, 21, 22)(v15, 21, 22) That That is, can I do evil that good may come? is, can I do evil that good may come? (Rom 3:8)(Rom 3:8)

If a teaching or practice is unscriptural but it If a teaching or practice is unscriptural but it brings more people to services, should we go brings more people to services, should we go along because it "does good"?along because it "does good"?


If Saul was graded on a percentage basis, If Saul was graded on a percentage basis, what grade would he get..95? ..98? Did this what grade would he get..95? ..98? Did this mean he had obeyed the Lord?mean he had obeyed the Lord?



Some Important Applications and Some Important Applications and Principles To Consider.Principles To Consider.



Some Important Applications and Principles Some Important Applications and Principles To Consider.To Consider.

Our confidence in the scriptures covers Our confidence in the scriptures covers "whatever you do in word or deed" "whatever you do in word or deed" (Col 3:17)(Col 3:17). .


Only a complete, sufficient revelation can Only a complete, sufficient revelation can make this claim!make this claim!


Only a complete, sufficient revelation can Only a complete, sufficient revelation can make this claim!make this claim!

"In the name of' means by the authority of "In the name of' means by the authority of In other words we need authority from In other words we need authority from Jesus Christ in everything we do.Jesus Christ in everything we do.


Only a complete, sufficient revelation can make Only a complete, sufficient revelation can make this claim!this claim!

"In the name of' means by the authority of In "In the name of' means by the authority of In other words we need authority from Jesus Christ other words we need authority from Jesus Christ in everything we do.in everything we do.

Since Christ speaks to us through the scriptures, Since Christ speaks to us through the scriptures, we must have scripture, that is, BOOK, we must have scripture, that is, BOOK, CHAPTER, and VERSE for all that we do. CHAPTER, and VERSE for all that we do.


As we have already seen the scriptures As we have already seen the scriptures furnish us with "every good work" furnish us with "every good work" (2 Tim 3:16‑17)(2 Tim 3:16‑17)


As we have already seen the scriptures As we have already seen the scriptures furnish us with "every good work" furnish us with "every good work" (2 Tim 3:16‑17)(2 Tim 3:16‑17)

Everything we teach and practice will be Everything we teach and practice will be based on the scripture. We would not based on the scripture. We would not hesitate to give scripture supporting any hesitate to give scripture supporting any practice. practice. (1 Pet 4:11)(1 Pet 4:11)


When the scriptures are silent, that is give When the scriptures are silent, that is give no authority for a practice, then we must not no authority for a practice, then we must not assume the right to act anyway! assume the right to act anyway! (Acts 15:24, Heb 7:14)(Acts 15:24, Heb 7:14)


When the scriptures are silent, that is give no When the scriptures are silent, that is give no authority for a practice, then we must not authority for a practice, then we must not assume the right to act anyway! assume the right to act anyway! (Acts 15:24, Heb 7:14)(Acts 15:24, Heb 7:14)

NEVER reply when someone questions your NEVER reply when someone questions your practice by saying "Show me where the Bible practice by saying "Show me where the Bible says NOT TO". Instead always give scripture says NOT TO". Instead always give scripture for your practice or give up your practice!for your practice or give up your practice!


Consider the mass of denominational Consider the mass of denominational doctrines based on the silence of the doctrines based on the silence of the scriptures: special priesthood, the pope, scriptures: special priesthood, the pope, church businesses, church political efforts, church businesses, church political efforts, altar call, infant baptism, church diocese, altar call, infant baptism, church diocese, and church creeds. and church creeds.


Consider the mass of denominational doctrines Consider the mass of denominational doctrines based on the silence of the scriptures: special based on the silence of the scriptures: special priesthood, the pope, church businesses, priesthood, the pope, church businesses, church political efforts, altar call, infant church political efforts, altar call, infant baptism, church diocese, and church creeds. baptism, church diocese, and church creeds.

Without an understanding of this principle we Without an understanding of this principle we could not logically oppose these practices. could not logically oppose these practices.


Can you find where the Bible says "thou Can you find where the Bible says "thou shalt not have a special priesthood, a shalt not have a special priesthood, a pope…?”pope…?”


Can you find where the Bible says "thou Can you find where the Bible says "thou shalt not have a special priesthood, a shalt not have a special priesthood, a pope…?“pope…?“

How then do we apply Bible authority to How then do we apply Bible authority to everyday actions?everyday actions?


Can you find where the Bible says "thou Can you find where the Bible says "thou shalt not have a special priesthood, a shalt not have a special priesthood, a pope…?“pope…?“

How then do we apply Bible authority to How then do we apply Bible authority to everyday actions?everyday actions?

We need to recognize the various ways God We need to recognize the various ways God shows His approval of actions in the shows His approval of actions in the scripture. scripture.


Whatever names you wish to use to Whatever names you wish to use to describe these ways are not important as describe these ways are not important as long as you understand these are principles long as you understand these are principles by which all language is understood.by which all language is understood.


Whatever names you wish to use to Whatever names you wish to use to describe these ways are not important as describe these ways are not important as long as you understand these are principles long as you understand these are principles by which all language is understood.by which all language is understood.

Direct Command or StatementDirect Command or Statement ‑ God ‑ God commands are to be heeded! An example of commands are to be heeded! An example of a command of God is found in a command of God is found in Acts 2:38Acts 2:38, , "Repent and be baptized...”"Repent and be baptized...”


Approved ExampleApproved Example ‑ When an example is ‑ When an example is recorded in the scriptures with God's recorded in the scriptures with God's approval we know that action may be approval we know that action may be followed. followed. (1 Pet 2:21; 1 Cor 11:1; Acts 20:7)(1 Pet 2:21; 1 Cor 11:1; Acts 20:7)


Inescapable ConclusionInescapable Conclusion or as some or as some describe as "Necessary inference" When describe as "Necessary inference" When there is Only one possible conclusion from there is Only one possible conclusion from the scripture, then it is to be followed as the scripture, then it is to be followed as God's will. God's will.


Please remember there is a major difference Please remember there is a major difference between a possible conclusion and an between a possible conclusion and an inescapable one. inescapable one.


Please remember there is a major difference Please remember there is a major difference between a possible conclusion and an between a possible conclusion and an inescapable one. inescapable one.

Some inescapable conclusions are: Some inescapable conclusions are: ----“If “If Jesus came up out of the water, then he Jesus came up out of the water, then he must have gone down into the water.” must have gone down into the water.” (Mt 3:16)(Mt 3:16)


Please remember there is a major difference Please remember there is a major difference between a possible conclusion and an inescapable between a possible conclusion and an inescapable one. one.

Some inescapable conclusions are: Some inescapable conclusions are: ----“If Jesus “If Jesus came up out of the water, then he must have gone came up out of the water, then he must have gone down into the water.” down into the water.” (Mt 3:16)(Mt 3:16)

““God is the God of the living.” God is the God of the living.” (Mark 12:26‑27) (Mark 12:26‑27)


Jesus expected the Pharisees to conclude Jesus expected the Pharisees to conclude from a verb tense, "I Am" instead of "I from a verb tense, "I Am" instead of "I Was", that God is the God of the living.Was", that God is the God of the living.


Jesus expected the Pharisees to conclude Jesus expected the Pharisees to conclude from a verb tense, "I Am" instead of "I from a verb tense, "I Am" instead of "I Was", that God is the God of the living.Was", that God is the God of the living.

Realize that while we must have authority Realize that while we must have authority for everything we do, we do not have to for everything we do, we do not have to find everything specifically named. What I find everything specifically named. What I mean is that the Bible authorizes in two mean is that the Bible authorizes in two ways.ways.


By General AuthorityBy General Authority ‑ everything ‑ everything essential for carrying out a command (or essential for carrying out a command (or authorized action) is allowed by God. As an authorized action) is allowed by God. As an example we are told to baptize which example we are told to baptize which would require a place that has sufficient would require a place that has sufficient water. The creek, lake or a man made water. The creek, lake or a man made baptistery would all be authorized but not baptistery would all be authorized but not specifically named. specifically named. (Mt 28:18‑20)(Mt 28:18‑20)


By Specific AuthorityBy Specific Authority ‑ when God ‑ when God specifies an action we are not at liberty to specifies an action we are not at liberty to substitute anything else. As an example substitute anything else. As an example God specified that Christians use God specified that Christians use unleavened bread and fruit of the vine in the unleavened bread and fruit of the vine in the Lord's supper. Those who would use a Lord's supper. Those who would use a sandwich and a soft drink (another food) sandwich and a soft drink (another food) substitute for what God has specified.substitute for what God has specified.


Take time to consider the implication and Take time to consider the implication and applications of these truths. In lesson three applications of these truths. In lesson three we will go into detail considering what God we will go into detail considering what God has authorized concerning the local church.has authorized concerning the local church.


God has given us a complete, perfect God has given us a complete, perfect revelation to guide us in every aspect of revelation to guide us in every aspect of life. Only by walking by faith, that is life. Only by walking by faith, that is having BOOK, CHAPTER, and VERSE for having BOOK, CHAPTER, and VERSE for my teaching and actions, can I be pleasing my teaching and actions, can I be pleasing to God. Be sure to take note of any to God. Be sure to take note of any questions you may have and bring them to questions you may have and bring them to the next class! the next class!

the need of loyalty to jesus christ n throughout history men have had a resistance to listening and...

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