STRETCH FORWARD .......

STRETCH FORWARD TO THOSE NEW THINGS WHICH LIE AHEAD

December 21st came and went and the television shows said nothing further about the fact that the world did not end on that date. A day earlier I lost count of the number of times it was mentioned. Was that a surprise to you? It should not have been for even our Lord Jesus long ago said that only His Father knows when this will be, but that it will come like a thief in the night; that is unexpectedly. No one can predict the “day nor the hour” that a thief is going to strike, neither can we know when the Lord may come again. As I watched the “count down” starting hours ahead of time by thousands, if not millions all over the world, I could not help thinking, “I would hate to be in one of those crowds if the Lord chose to come right now.” The news reported that people were complaining as far away as three miles from the Dallas celebration of the noise. One wonders of the many accidents and loss of lives world wide because of drunken drivers heading home after such gatherings. The whole point is to know that He is coming and to live every day in readiness. I can guarantee from experience that just not knowing the time a thief will come takes a toll. The last few years we lived in South Africa, I actually slept in dread of hearing a thief trying to steal our car or break in. We took every precaution by enclosing the cars in an iron fence with a double locked gate, and a roll of razor wire at the top, yet there were, by count, six attempts to break and steal from it. The cost of repairing damaged glass and interiors mounted! and sleep was restless. I dreaded the hours between two and four a.m. the most. An ancient V.W. Beetle car out side the fence, belonging to a resident, was stolen.

On another occasion, I was awaken by a car which pulled up to our Bible shop door. It was quickly joined by a second one, that was parked nearby, and several men began to attach our security gate to the first car with a heavy chain. I knew instantly that they intended to carry away everything they wanted and that our very lives would be in danger as we had no cash. Since they were directly under my window, I spoke to them saying, “I suggest you leave immediately before I start shooting.” They did not know I had no gun, most people did have, so they dropped the chain, jumped into their cars and fled the scene.

Philippians 3:12-16 King James Version (KJV)

12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.

We can never think that we have completely finished the course. We have not attained our goal until we have entered into the reward. As we grow older, we may not be able to physically do what we once did, but there is much to be done that we can do.

13 I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,

14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Life is like a Marathon Race, until we cross that finishing line, it is not over. South Africa hosted an annual Marathon which dominated the television on the public holiday that it was always run. What anxious moments when a runner collapses only a few feet from the coal!. What cheers rang out from the stands when another runner stops and leads him that last few feet!. Some teams run holding the hand of a weaker companion risking their own reward. Let us hold the hand of a weaker brother in the faith.

15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.

 Being in the wrong, thieves are likely to come at any time of weakness. But being Christians, let us seek to always be ready, for our Lord’s coming. Forget that which went before, and stretch eagerly to be always ready when ever it may be. I could have told the Television commentators, I would not be December 21st, but that does not mean He is not coming. He is, always be alert. If I had not been alert and heard the car drive in and the chain rattling, we might not ever be here today. But, I was and we are, what can I do for Him?

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READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2013

JANUARY

6th Sunday - Genesis 11, 12, Matthew :5:27-48, Psalm 5
7th. Monday - Genesis 13, 14, 15, Matthew 6, Psalm 6
8th. Tuesday - Genesis 16, 17, 18, Matthew 7, Proverbs 1:8-19
9th. Wednesday - Genesis 19, 20, Matthew 8, Psalm 7:1-9
10th Thursday - Genesis 21, 22, 23, Matthew 9:1-17, Psalm 7:10-17
11th. Friday - Genesis 24, Matthew 9:18-30, Psalm 8
12th Saturday - Genesis 25, 26, Matthew 10:1-23, Proverbs 1:20-33

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THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. - Philippians 4:8

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My grandson arrived home from Sunday School and he asked me "Grandpa were you in the Ark with Noah? I was surprised but I said " No, I wasn't in the Ark with Noah" "Oh" he said "Why weren't you DROWNED?"

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GIFT SUGGESTIONS ALL

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WE WISH YOU A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS & MAY HE BLESS THE NEW YEAR

WHY WAS THE LAW GIVEN TO MOSES?

Newsletter 313 September 23, 2012 _______________________________________________________________ Galatians 3:13, 19-29 WHY PAUL CALLED IT A “CURSE” The very first portion of the opening verse of our study uses two words that just stand out. The first one is that Christ redeemed us. The word in the original text that has been translated “redeemed” is the same word used to describe the purchase of a slave. When I was a child, I remember that many stores gave green stamps as a sort of bonus for purchases. Those stamps were placed in a book, which you could use to purchase items from a catalog. You “redeemed” them. Jesus gave his own life to “redeem” his followers. In so doing, we, who had been bond servants of Satan, became servants of the Lord Jesus. He bought us back. The other word is the word “curse.” He willingly, because of his love, died upon a cross, to save us from eternal death in Hell. Because he had no sin of his own, he could do that, and only he. Death by crucifixion was not only the worst that the Romans could do, but it was also called a curse. Before this time there was no identification of what sin was. The Children of Israel needed it to be made clear what was sin in God’s sight. We speak of a naughty child when a small child does things that we would react much more negatively to when he is a teen age youth. The difference is that the teen age youth has a lot more knowledge and understanding. Thus, the law of Moses is sometimes called a school-master. I remember vividly how, as I was finishing high school, I would be free from the class room, not realizing I still had another five years, in classrooms and two in the military ahead of me., and even after that there was still much to be learned. 13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is everyone that hangeth on a tree: .. .. .. .. (Galatians 4:5, Deuteronomy 21:23, Acts 5:30) WHAT WAS ITS PURPOSE? Its purpose then was to define sin, to make us realize that we have all sinner, but that there is hope. The wages of sin is death, but there is a redeemer, if we will just let him help us. In the Navy, our worship hymns used a lot of the time centered upon nautical themes. “Let the Lower Lights be Burning,”, “Throw out the Lifeline” and similar. We were still learning. There is a redeemer, and only a fool would not grab hold of the life line when he realizes that is the only hope. The law was given because of transgressions, sin. 19 Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. (Romans 5:20, Acts 7:53, Exodus 20:19, Deuteronomy 5:5, Galatians 3:16) WHO IS THE MEDIATOR? 20 Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one. (1 Timothy 2:5, Hebrews 8:6, Hebrews 9:15, Hebrews 12:24) 21 Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. (Luke 20:16, Galatians 2:17, Galatians 2:21) VIOLATING A LAW REVEALS GUILT 22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. Cain Killed his brother Abel. The law had not been given, but I am sure that he knew this was a sin. When Eve took her first bite of the forbidden fruit, she was aware that she had been told not to do that, but when God gave the law to Moses, there was no more excuse. God had engraved it upon stone. But Jesus Christ paid the price for the guilty, all of us, and we are now saved because of his grace. His grace is totally undeserved. We all deserve the death penalty, under the law, but because of Jesus Christ, we can have that sin removed and not receive that punishment. Proverbs tells us, “The fool hath said in his heart ‘there is no God’.” We would prove this, if we saw and rejected the lifeline, the Messiah. ’ (Romans 11:32) 23 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. (Romans 11:32) HOW THE LAW IS A SCHOOLMASTER 24 Therefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. (1 Corinthians 4:15, Galatians 2:16) Now, we have finished with that formal education, the law is fulfilled. It has served its purpose, The courtrooms of the land used to have the ten commandments written on the wall, but really, because, of Christ, we are not under the law. It no longer a written decree, it is now written in our hearts. We have matured, and we know right from wrong. THE PURPOSE OF THE LAW IS COMPLETED IN CHRIST JESUS 25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. (1 Corinthians 4:15) NOT CHILDREN OF LAW, BUT OF FAITH 26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:14, Galatians 4:5, Romans 8:1, Galatians 3:28, Galatians 4:14, Galatians 5:6, Galatians 5:24, Ephesians 1:1, Philippians 1:1, Colossians 1:4, 1 Timothy 1:12, 2 Timothy 1:1, Titus 1:4) Unfortunately knowing, and doing are different things. Knowing the speed limits, and staying within them, are two different things. Where is the driver who can honestly say he has never broken a traffic law? Just once, makes us guilty. I can honestly say, I can only remember four traffic tickets in my lifetime, two of those were parking offenses. But, I have to admit more that weren’t seen. God sees all. FAITH RESULTS IN OBEDIENCE 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. Catch that lifeline! (Matthew 26:19, Romans 6:3, 1 Corinthians 10:2, Romans 13:14) IN GOD’S SIGHT, ONE 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (Romans 3:22, 1 Corinthians 12:13, Colossians 3:11, John 17:11, Ephesians 2:15, Romans 8:1, Galatians 3:26, Galatians 4:14, Galatians 5:24, Ephesians 1:1, Philippians 1:1, Colossians 1:4, 1 Timothy 1:12, 2 Timothy 1:1, Titus 1:4) HIS HEIRS 29 And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Romans 4:13, 1 Corinthians 3:23, Romans 9:8, Galatians 3:18, Galatians 4:28) __________ READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN THIS YEAR SEPTEMBER 23rd Sunday - Isaiah 57, 58, 59, Ephesians 1, Psalm 110 24th Monday - Isaiah 60, 61, 62, Ephesians 2, Psalm 111 25th Tuesday - Isaiah 63, 64, Ephesians 3, Proverbs 23:19-27 26th Wednesday - Isaiah 65, 66, Ephesians 4:1-16, Psalm 112 27th Thursday - Micah 1, 2, Ephesians 4:17-32, Psalm 113 28th Friday - Micah 3, 4, 5, Ephesians 5:1-16, Psalm 114 29th Saturday - Micah 6, 7, Ephesians 5:17-33, Proverbs 23:28-35 __________ LINKS TO OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SITES http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com Biographical, with photos http://ebooksbybob.blogsport.com They can be read directly on your computer http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com This weekly newsletter in a different format http://whatdosthebiblesayaboutthis.blogspot.com Answers to your questions http://scripturegems.blogspot.com Favorite Scripture Quotations http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com These represent 70 of the world’s languages http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com Short Bible studies http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com Several pages in length http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com The opening chapters to her nine books in print __________ THE MEMORY VERSE FOR TODAY “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.” - John 15:12 (Remember, He Died for our Sins) WHAT DO YOU HAVE ON THIS MORNING? Our of the mouths of babes we often hear a strictly non-adult point of view. For instance, a mother took her little daughter to her very first wedding, and the little girl was filled with curiosity about everything she saw. When she saw the bride, she asked her mother why the bride was dressed in white. Her mother said, “That’s because white is the color of happiness, and today is the happiest day of her life.” Quick as a flash the curious little girl asked, “So why is the groom wearing black?” Church Bulletin - Waterview Church of Christ

CHRIST OUR HIGH PRIEST

Newsletter 320 November 18, 2012 ____________________________________________________ Hebrews 5:1-14 There is no certainty concerning the authorship of this book written to the “Hebrews.” Some think, Paul was the author, but it does not open with a claim of authorship as he often begins. While it makes comparisons to the Levitical priesthood, it also shows evidence of familiarity with the Greek translation of the Old Testament, and the Greek thought process, not usually linking it to Paul. It was highly regarded by the early church. A SACRIFICE FOR SINS The first qualification of the priesthood was they be born of the tribe of Levi. They could serve in many activities of the tabernacle and later of the temple, but there was one portion into which they could never enter. They could not enter into the presence of God in the Holy of Holies. From among the people, that would be the priests, God would select one to serve as High Priest, and he would be set aside for that task by one of the prophets on God’s instructions. Only the High priest could carry the blood of the slain lamb, on the day of Atonement, into the Holy of Holies and offer it for his own sins and those of the people. Those sins were then transferred to the scapegoat which was released Far in the wilderness. Only in this sense were these sins removed, and then only by the High Priest, and only once a year. . 1 For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, and that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sin. (Exodus 28:1, Hebrews 2:17, Hebrews 7:27, Hebrews 8:3, Hebrews 9:9, Hebrews 10:11, 1 Corinthians 15:3, Hebrews 7:27, Hebrews 10:12) 2 Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed about with infirmity. (Hebrews 2:18, Hebrews 4:15, Ephesians 4:18, Hebrews 9:7, James 5:19, 1 Peter 2:25, Hebrews 7:28) 3 And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins. (1 Corinthians 15:3, Hebrews 7:27, Hebrews 10:12, Leviticus 9:7, Leviticus 16:6, Hebrews 7:27, Hebrews 9:7) CALLED BY GOD The office of High Priest was not one that anyone could seek. It was always an honour bestowed by God, Because of our correspondence Bible lessons years ago, I often received letters from self appointed persons listing their “titles” after their names. Even Jesus did not set himself aside. He was sent of the Father, and said of himself that what he taught was not of him, but of his Father, God. Like the High Priest who entered the Holy of Holies once each year with a sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins, Christ was sent to make that one sacrifice for the sins of the world. But how could this be? Christ was of the tribe of Judah, not Levi. Because of love and grace. John 3:16-17. “For God so love the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” 4 And no man taketh this honour upon himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. (Numbers 16:40, Numbers 18:7, 2 Chronicles 26:18, Exodus 28:1, 1 Chronicles 23:13) 5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, today have I begotten thee. (John 8:54, Hebrews 2:17, Hebrews 5:10, Hebrews 1:1, Hebrews 1:5, Psalm 2:7) 6 As he said also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisadec. (Psalm 110:4, Hebrews 7:17, Hebrews 5:10, Hebrews 6:20, Hebrews 7:11, Hebrews 7:17) ETERNAL SALVATION A High Priest could only roll back sin for a short time, but Jesus, the Son of God, who made this world (John 1:2-3), who was made High Priest, under the order of Melchisadec, was able to save eternally a sinless people. Luke tells us, “Saying “Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will , but thine, be done’ And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” (Luke 22:42-44 7 Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; (Matthew 26:39, Matthew 26:42, Matthew 26:44, Mark 14:36, Mark 14:39, Luke 22:41, Luke 22:44, Matthew 27:46, Matthew 27:50, Mark 15:34, Mark 15:37, Luke 23:46, Mark 14:46, Hebrews 17”27, Hebrews 12:28) 8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by he things which he suffered; (Hebrews 1:2, Philippians 2:8) 9 And being perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all that obey him; (Hebrews 2:10) NOT OF AARON 10 Called of God as high priest after the order of Melchisedec. (Hebrews 2:17, Hebrews 5:5, Hebrews 5:6) LISTEN AND GROW IN THE FAITH All his followers are called priests, in that they may approach God in prayer. Let us seek and listen to his Word that we may be able to teach others to find, and follow the Lord. Let us move on to stronger food than just the milk of the Gospel. 11 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. 12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. (Galatians 4:3, Hebrews 6:1, Acts 7:38, 1 Corinthians 3:2, 1 Corinthians 14:20, 1 Peter 2:2) 13 For everyone that useth milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. (1 Corinthians 3:1, 1 Corinthians 14:20, 1 Peter 2:2) 14 But strong meat belonged to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. (1 Corinthians 2:6, Ephesians 4:13, Hebrews 6:1, 1 Timothy 4:7, Romans 14:1) __________ READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN EACH YEAR NOVEMBER 11th Sunday - Ezekiel 17, 18, Hebrews 10:1-18, Psalm 123 12th Monday - Ezekiel 19, 20, Hebrews 10:19-39, Proverbs 27:11-20 13th Tuesday - Ezekiel 21, 22, Hebrews 11:1-22, Psalm 124 14th Wednesday - Ezekiel 23, Hebrews 11:23-40, Psalm 125 15th Thursday - Ezekiel 24, 25, 26, Hebrews 12:1-11, Psalm 126 16th Friday - Ezekiel 27, 28, Hebrews 12:12-29, Proverbs 27:21-27 17th Saturday - Ezekiel 29, 30, Hebrews 13, Psalm 127 __________ LINKS TO OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SITES http://47yersinafrica.blogspot.com Biographical, with photos http://ebooksbybob.blogspot.com E-books that can be read directly on your computer http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com This weekly newsletter in a different format http://whatdoesgodswordsayaboutthis.blogspot.com Answers to your questions http://scripturegems.blogspot.com Favorite Scripture Quotations http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com The represent70 of the world’s languages. http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com Short Bible studies http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com Several pages in length http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com The opening chapters of her nine books in print __________ MEMORY VERSE FOR TODAY “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let hold fast or profession.” - Hebrews 4:14 __________ BEGIN YOUR DAY BY READING DAILY SITE __________ HOW WAS THAT? In the middle of a long-winded sermon, a small child was overheard asking his mother in a whisper that was heard for pews around. “Mommy, are you sure this is the only way we can get to heaven?” __________ When the new minister moved into own, one of the first people he met said, I certainly hope you are not one of those narrow-minded ministers who think that only the members of your congregation are going to heaven.“ “I’m even more narrow-minded than that “ the preacher answered, “I’m pretty sure that some of the members of my congregation aren’t going to make it.“ __________

WHY PAUL CALLED IT A "CURSE"

Newsletter 313 September 23, 2012 _______________________________________________________________ Galatians 3:13, 19-29 The very first portion of the opening verse of our study uses two words that just stand out. The first one is that Christ redeemed us. The word in the original text that has been translated “redeemed” is the same word used to describe the purchase of a slave. When I was a child, I remember that many stores gave green stamps as a sort of bonus for purchases. Those stamps were placed in a book, which you could use to purchase items from a catalog. You “redeemed” them. Jesus gave his own life to “redeem” his followers. In so doing, we, who had been bond servants of Satan, became servants of the Lord Jesus. He bought us back. The other word is the word “curse.” He willingly, because of his love, died upon a cross, to save us from eternal death in Hell. Because he had no sin of his own, he could do that, and only he. Death by crucifixion was not only the worst that the Romans could do, but it was also called a curse. Before this time there was no identification of what sin was. The Children of Israel needed it to be made clear what was sin in God’s sight. We speak of a naughty child when a small child does things that we would react much more negatively to when he is a teen age youth. The difference is that the teen age youth has a lot more knowledge and understanding. Thus, the law of Moses is sometimes called a school-master. I remember vividly how, as I was finishing high school, I would be free from the class room, not realizing I still had another five years, in classrooms and two in the military ahead of me., and even after that there was still much to be learned. 13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is everyone that hangeth on a tree: .. .. .. .. (Galatians 4:5, Deuteronomy 21:23, Acts 5:30) WHAT WAS ITS PURPOSE? Its purpose then was to define sin, to make us realize that we have all sinner, but that there is hope. The wages of sin is death, but there is a redeemer, if we will just let him help us. In the Navy, our worship hymns used a lot of the time centered upon nautical themes. “Let the Lower Lights be Burning,”, “Throw out the Lifeline” and similar. We were still learning. There is a redeemer, and only a fool would not grab hold of the life line when he realizes that is the only hope. The law was given because of transgressions, sin. 19 Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. (Romans 5:20, Acts 7:53, Exodus 20:19, Deuteronomy 5:5, Galatians 3:16) WHO IS THE MEDIATOR? 20 Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one. (1 Timothy 2:5, Hebrews 8:6, Hebrews 9:15, Hebrews 12:24) 21 Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. (Luke 20:16, Galatians 2:17, Galatians 2:21) VIOLATING A LAW REVEALS GUILT 22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. Cain Killed his brother Abel. The law had not been given, but I am sure that he knew this was a sin. When Eve took her first bite of the forbidden fruit, she was aware that she had been told not to do that, but when God gave the law to Moses, there was no more excuse. God had engraved it upon stone. But Jesus Christ paid the price for the guilty, all of us, and we are now saved because of his grace. His grace is totally undeserved. We all deserve the death penalty, under the law, but because of Jesus Christ, we can have that sin removed and not receive that punishment. Proverbs tells us, “The fool hath said in his heart ‘there is no God’.” We would prove this, if we saw and rejected the lifeline, the Messiah. ’ (Romans 11:32) 23 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. (Romans 11:32) HOW THE LAW IS A SCHOOLMASTER 24 Therefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. (1 Corinthians 4:15, Galatians 2:16) Now, we have finished with that formal education, the law is fulfilled. It has served its purpose, The courtrooms of the land used to have the ten commandments written on the wall, but really, because, of Christ, we are not under the law. It no longer a written decree, it is now written in our hearts. We have matured, and we know right from wrong. THE PURPOSE OF THE LAW IS COMPLETED IN CHRIST JESUS 25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. (1 Corinthians 4:15) NOT CHILDREN OF LAW, BUT OF FAITH 26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:14, Galatians 4:5, Romans 8:1, Galatians 3:28, Galatians 4:14, Galatians 5:6, Galatians 5:24, Ephesians 1:1, Philippians 1:1, Colossians 1:4, 1 Timothy 1:12, 2 Timothy 1:1, Titus 1:4) Unfortunately knowing, and doing are different things. Knowing the speed limits, and staying within them, are two different things. Where is the driver who can honestly say he has never broken a traffic law? Just once, makes us guilty. I can honestly say, I can only remember four traffic tickets in my lifetime, two of those were parking offenses. But, I have to admit more that weren’t seen. God sees all. FAITH RESULTS IN OBEDIENCE 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. Catch that lifeline! (Matthew 26:19, Romans 6:3, 1 Corinthians 10:2, Romans 13:14) IN GOD’S SIGHT, ONE 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (Romans 3:22, 1 Corinthians 12:13, Colossians 3:11, John 17:11, Ephesians 2:15, Romans 8:1, Galatians 3:26, Galatians 4:14, Galatians 5:24, Ephesians 1:1, Philippians 1:1, Colossians 1:4, 1 Timothy 1:12, 2 Timothy 1:1, Titus 1:4) HIS HEIRS 29 And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Romans 4:13, 1 Corinthians 3:23, Romans 9:8, Galatians 3:18, Galatians 4:28) __________ READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN THIS YEAR SEPTEMBER 23rd Sunday - Isaiah 57, 58, 59, Ephesians 1, Psalm 110 24th Monday - Isaiah 60, 61, 62, Ephesians 2, Psalm 111 25th Tuesday - Isaiah 63, 64, Ephesians 3, Proverbs 23:19-27 26th Wednesday - Isaiah 65, 66, Ephesians 4:1-16, Psalm 112 27th Thursday - Micah 1, 2, Ephesians 4:17-32, Psalm 113 28th Friday - Micah 3, 4, 5, Ephesians 5:1-16, Psalm 114 29th Saturday - Micah 6, 7, Ephesians 5:17-33, Proverbs 23:28-35 __________ LINKS TO OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SITES http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com Biographical, with photos http://ebooksbybob.blogsport.com They can be read directly on your computer http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com This weekly newsletter in a different format http://whatdosthebiblesayaboutthis.blogspot.com Answers to your questions http://scripturegems.blogspot.com Favorite Scripture Quotations http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com These represent 70 of the world’s languages http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com Short Bible studies http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com Several pages in length http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com The opening chapters to her nine books in print __________ THE MEMORY VERSE FOR TODAY “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.” - John 15:12 (Remember, He Died for our Sins) WHAT DO YOU HAVE ON THIS MORNING? Our of the mouths of babes we often hear a strictly non-adult point of view. For instance, a mother took her little daughter to her very first wedding, and the little girl was filled with curiosity about everything she saw. When she saw the bride, she asked her mother why the bride was dressed in white. Her mother said, “That’s because white is the color of happiness, and today is the happiest day of her life.” Quick as a flash the curious little girl asked, “So why is the groom wearing black?” Church Bulletin - Waterview Church of Christ

THE CHRISTMAS ACCOUNT

Newsletter 327 December 22, 2012 Luke 2:1-20 (King James Version) 1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (Matthew 22:17, Matthew 24:14) 2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) (Matthew 4:24) 3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) (Luke 1:27) 5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. 6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. (Matthew 1:25) 8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. (Luke 1:11, Acts 5:19, Luke 24:4, Acts 12:7) 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. (Matthew 14:27) 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. (Matthew 1:21, John 4:42, Acts 5:31, Matthew 1:16, Matthew 16:16, Matthew 16:20, John 11:27, Luke 1:43, Acts 2:36, Acts 10:36) 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. (1 Samuel 2:24, 2 Kings 19:29, 2 Kings 20:8, Isaiah 7:11, Isaiah 7:14) 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, (Matthew 21:9, Luke 19:38, Ephesians 1:9, Philippians 2:13 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. 15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. 16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. 17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. 18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. (Luke 2:51) 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. (Matthew 9:8) __________ READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2013 (Please pardon my error, this does not match last week’s days) DECEMBER 30th Sunday - Zechariah 12, 13, 14, Revelation 22:1-9, Proverbs 31:21-31 31st Monday - Malachi 1, 2, 3, 4, Revelation 22:10-21, Psalm 150 JANUARY 1st Tuesday - Genesis 1, 2, Matthew 1, Psalm 1 2nd Wednesday - Genesis 3, 4, Matthew 2, Psalm 2 3rd Thursday - Genesis 5, 6, Matthew 3, Psalm 3 4th Friday - Genesis 7, 8, Matthew 4, Proverbs 1:1-7 5th Saturday - 9, 10, Matthew 5:1-26, Psalm 4 ____________ OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS http://ebooksbybob.blogspot.com These can be read on your own computer monitor. http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com Our weekly Bible Letter http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com Biographical, with photos http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com Questions and discussions http://scripturegems.blogspot.com Favorite Scripture Quotation http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com Representing 70 world languages http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com Short Bible studies http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com Several pages in length http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come ____________ THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” Genesis 1:1 __________ SEND FREE CHRISTIAN EMAIL GREETINGS FROM: ecards@dayspring.com 3-movies@dayspring.com ________________ My grandson arrived home from Sunday School and he asked me "Grandpa were you in the Ark with Noah? I was surprised but I said " No, I wasn't in the Ark with Noah" "Oh" he said "Why weren't you DROWNED?" _______________ GIFT SUGGESTIONS ALL Phyllis’ books are available from Amazon. All but the first, “Some of God’s Children,” are available as e-books for your reader. Feet of Clay is the first of a series of six fictional missionary books. The latest is “Mary’s Letters.” WE WISH YOU A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS & MAY HE BLESS THE NEW YEAR

LET HIM BE ACCURSED

          SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES WITH BOB

Newsletter 312                                                                                     September ==================================================================

                                        LET HIM BE ACCURSED

Galatians 1:3-9

3  Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ.

(Romans 1:7)

4  Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:

(Galatians 2:20, Matthew 13:22, Romans 12:2, 2 Corinthians 4:4, Philippians 4:20)

5  To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

(Romans 11:36)

6  I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel.

(Romans 8:28, Galatians 1:15, Galatians 5:8, 2 Corinthians 11:4, Galatians 1:7, Galatians 1:11, Galatians 2:2, Galatians 2:7, Galatians 5:14, 1 Timothy 1:3)

7  Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.

(Acts 15:24, Galatians 5:0)

8  But though we or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

(2 Corinthians 11:14, Romans 9:3)

9  As I said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

(Acts 18:23, Romans 16:17, Romans 9:3)

The meaning of the word “gospel” is simply “good news”, and the source of this good news is found in the New Testament and revealed in the fulfillment of many Old Testament prophecies dating many years before. The book of Matthew was written with the Jewish nation particularly in mind. It begins with the genealogy of Jesus. This would have been vital information for Jewish readers. The birth of Christ, a virgin birth, and many facts, impossible to stage, were foretold from many years and recorded, in their scriptures. Matthew, writing specially for them, recorded these facts; the virgin birth, where the Messiah would be born, that he would be taken to Egypt, that his home would be Nazareth. The facts of his coming death, his burial, and resurrection were also foretold, and none of these could have been planned and executed by him, unless he was, as he said, the Messiah. Christians, the world over, remember these facts every time that they observe the communion memorial service.

Early in church history, there began to rise up men who were preaching “another gospel.”  This began to happen even while the Apostles were still living and preaching. Paul struggled with many of these departures from the gospel and many of his letters to the churches. Since he was the evangelist to the Gentiles, he was deeply concerned by pressure from his Jewish brethren who felt that it was necessary for Gentile converts to become Jews before they could become Christians. This doctrine is called of the Judaizers. He dealt with another doctrine which singled out the gift of tongues and tried to make it a command, because the Spirit understands when we are so overcome that we can only groan and he backs up our prayers for us. Paul’s letters to the churches are a sure and reliable guide for us. Paul so deal with these problems that he is a safe guide for us when we must deal with the same sort of things today. On a personal level, he dealt with every kind of sin imagination can thing of; sexulal, modesty, adictions, alcoholism, theft, murder. If i can happen today, he dealt with it at one or more times, even with the more common sins of, lies, gossip, and meddling in the affairs of others.

Not all false prophets are charlatans, preaching one thing while they do the same. Others teach that “God wants to make you rich.” or “name it, and claim it.” In reality, Jesus said that if he suffered, and he did, we must expect to suffer the same sort of rejection. Jesus pointed ou that it is very difficult for a rich man to go to heaven. He wants us to become a Christian with our eyes open that we may have to suffer. We need to think carefully, we can not seek both riches and Jesus.  Whatever blessings we may accumulate, we are still stewards to God who owns it all. If he gives money to our use, there is a reason. We are handling it for him.

The heart of our worship is expressed in our music and prayers. It all centers on Jesus, but during my Navy years, I often attended churches where that did not seem to be so. Some never mentioned the scriptures at all in the sermon. Some were so emotional that simple reasoning, was laid aside till afterwards, if at all. Then, there were those that seemed to be there to entertain, or to compete with the country club. It always makes me uneasy when an author’s books replace the book of books.

Christ commanded that we teach all nations whatsoever he has taught us. We don’t do that if he and his word are not central, central in our prayers, in our songs, in our observance of the Lords memorial table, and in our giving.

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READ THE BIBLE THROUGH THIS YEAR

9th  Sunday    -    Isaiah 21, 22, 23,    2 Corinthians 9,    Proverbs 22:1-16
10th  Monday    -   Isaiah 24, 25, 26,    2 Corinthians 10,    Psalm 106:32-39
11th  Tuesday    -    Isaiah 27, 28,    2 Corinthians 11:1-15,    Psalm 106:40-48
12th  Wednesday    -    Isaiah 29, 30,    2 Corinthians 11:16-33,    Psalm 107:1-9
13th  Thursday    -    Isaiah 31, 32, 33,    2 Corinthians  12,    Proverbs 22:17-29
14th  Friday    -    Isaiah 34, 35, 36,    2 Corinthians 13,    Psalm 107:10-22
15th  Saturday    -    Isaiah 37, 38,    Galatians 1,    Psalm 107:23-32

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LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES

     (hits to date - 36,058)

http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://ebooksbybob.blogspot.com
Ebooks you can read on your computer
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
This weekly newsletter
http://whatdoesgodswordsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Your questions answered
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture quotations
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Send to your readers abroad, 70 languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies, one or two pages
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Booklet studies up to fifty pages
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
A chapter from each of her nine published books

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MEMORY VERSE

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endures for ever.”  -  Psalm 111:10

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An elderly gentleman, (mid nineties,) very well dressed, hair well groomed, great looking suit, flower in his lapel, smelling slightly of good aftershave, presenting a well looked after image, walked in to the church senior group meeting. Seated at a table is an elderly lady, (mid-eighties.) The gentleman walks over, sits along side her, with his cup of coffee and donut, takes a sip, turns to her and asks, “So tell me, do you come here often?”

THE CHURCH IN LAODICEA, IS IT TODAY'S CHURCH FORETOLD?

Newsletter 325 † December 9, 2012

______________________________________________________________

Some people never read the book of Revelation, saying that it is too difficult, but there are portions that cannot be more clear. They are missing the blessing of God given through John who wrote:

“Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is the hand.” Revelation 1:3.

If you make a habit of following a “through the Bible in one year reading guide,” such as the one we include in our weekly mailings, you will read Revelation through every year, and you will be greatly blessed even if there are parts that it is best not to be dogmatic in your interpretion.

I used to have in my library a book written by the founder of a highly respected American Bible College. He felt that the letters to the seven churches of Asia were symbolic of the church universal’s condition in seven periods through the ages from Pentecost to the return of Christ. Whether or not that is the case may or may not be so, but two of the seven churches do stand out, and they are the final two in the series. The church at Philadelphia stands tall being the only one of the seven that has no negative criticism. The last one, Laodicea has grown cold and self satisfied. Even though it has some who are faithful. Let us look at it a little closer. If it represents the church at the time of the Lord’s second coming, studying it should tell us why he comes just then, assuming the order has been chronologically arranged. That may or may not be so. Even if it is not, the Laodicean church has much to teach us.

“And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou are neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wreched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me  gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich: and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eye-salve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: If any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear to hear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” Revelation 3:14-22.

Sadly, this text describes a lukewarm church which thinks herself blessed, rich, and very active, but is blind that so much of this activity is of the world, material, and not of God, spiritual. It is blind to its own nakedness, something like the emperor in the story of “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” In five of the other churches, He calls for the church to repent, but notice that in this case repentance is directed to the individual members (any man). Because He loves, he does not give up on the individuals, but one gets the impression that He has given up on the church as a body and is determined to save from it the genuine, repentant individuals, whom He will bless with the invitation to sit with Him.

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READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN EACH YEAR

DECEMBER

9th.. Sunday - Ezra 4, 5, Revelation 7, Psalm 140:1-5
10th. Monday - Ezra 6, 7, Revelation 8, Proverbs 30:1-10
11th. Tuesday - Ezra 8, 9, Revelation 9:1-11, Psalm 140:6-13
12th. Wednesday - Ezra 10, Revelation 9:12-21, Psalm 141
13th. Thursday - Nehemiah 1, 2, Revelation 10, Psalm 142
14th. Friday - Nehemiah 3, 4, Revelation 11, Proverbs 30:11-23
15th. Saturday - Nehemiah 5, 6, Revelation 12, Psalm 143

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LINKS TO OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SITES


http://47yersinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://ebooksbybob.blogspot.com
E-books that can be read directly on your computer
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
This weekly newsletter in a different format
http://whatdoesgodswordsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Answers to your questions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotations
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
The represent70 of the world’s languages.
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
The opening chapters of her nine books in print

__________

MEMORY VERSE FOR TODAY

“Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” - Revelation 1:3.

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YOU WILL LOVE THIS DAILY SITE

I open my working day with it.

__________


GONE FISHING

A man who can swap horses or catch fish, and not lie about it, is just about pious as men ever get to be in this world.

__________

It is against the law to catch fish in some waters and a miracle in others.

__________

Fishing is not a matter of life or death. It is more important than that.

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SHARE A GOOD BOOK AT CHRISTMAS.

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click books and look for PJ Mills. Most of her Paper backs, and e-books are less than $10. Just remember the series starts with “Feet of Clay” then follow the list on the last page of the book to stay in order as you read. “The Call to Africa,” and “Mary’s Letters“, stand alone.

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