By Larry Fitzgerald

Cisco Church of Christ

Philippians 3:17-21

Have you ever been so excited about something that was going to happen that it just made your entire day?

More than a few years ago, I had the privilege to travel to Sacramento, California, to speak at the Northern California Bible teacher’s seminar. The organizer of the event was a friend of mine from Abilene. I stayed in his home. Spoke Friday and Saturday. Preached Sunday. It was a tremendous weekend.

But instead of flying home on Monday morning, My boss had given me permission to stay an extra day. But we did not sleep in Monday morning. Instead, we got up at 4:30 in the morning to make a long trip in the snow, through a treacherous pass to Squaw Valley.

Why did we do this? Because both of us loved to ski.

For us, it was a great little vacation. We were both so excited about going that we didn’t mind getting up early and shaking the cob webs out of our brains to make the trip.

This is what I call the vacation attitude.

Now, the perfect vacation is different for different people. For some the perfect vacation is spent shopping. "Shop til you drop" is their motto. Others, it might be going on a cruise or scuba diving off the coast of New Zealand or going to a ballgame. Or simply staying at home doing quiet things you enjoy.

But whatever your favorite vacation is, aren’t you in a better mood when you know that you are about to have such a rest? And don’t you handle the things of life a little better at those times?

But the problem is we don’t always have a vacation to look forward to. Therefore our attitude is not always that positive. Things are not always that easy to handle and we are not always that cheerful as we live this life.

Sometimes there is not much joy seen in our eyes or heard in our voice.

For me … for you … for us … to make it through this life with a bounce in our step - we need something to keep us going... we need something to look forward to... we need what the Bible calls: "a living hope..." (1 Peter 1:3). We need a hope that can never perish, spoil or fade away.

And friends it is possible for us to have this kind of hope – every day! The words, "rejoice in the lord always, I will say it again. Rejoice!" were not written by a man whose life was going great, but rather by a man who was in prison, a man who had in his life been beaten, flogged, stoned and betrayed (Phil. 4:4).

But he was not the first to use this power of a future hope to press on and endure in this life...

Listen to Hebrews 11:13,16

"All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised they only saw and welcomed them from a distance...they were longing for a better country - a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them...".

They were still living by faith - they didn’t have the things promised - but they could see them in the distance and they knew that someday this promise would be theirs. They knew that someday they would possess the promise. They would possess heaven.

Today, if you are a Christian, here is something to look forward to. Here is a "before vacation" attitude about your life. Hopefully you will re-kindle, anew, the fires of your hope. And today if you are not a Christian I pray that the hope that those who are in Christ will move you to be baptized into Christ -- in order that you to may be born again into a living hope.

Brother’s and sisters we are at this very moment "Marching to Zion, beautiful, beautiful Zion - we are marching upward to Zion the beautiful city of God." (Old Hymn). Do you believe that? Really believe that? This world is not our home we are just passing through.

We are headed home - we are going to heaven - and let me tell you heaven is going to be wonderful! It’s going to be the best experience in your life!

Today, I’d like to briefly share with you some of the many reasons why I think heaven is going to be the best trip you’ve ever taken.

Reason # 1 heaven is going to be the best trip you’ve ever taken is because when we get to heaven WE WILL GET A NEW BODY

1 Cor 15:50-54 tells us that when Christ comes again, he will change our pain-filled bodies into glorious, beautiful, immortal bodies.

And we are given a glimpse of what those bodies will be like. For the Bible tells us, "….but we know that when (Christ) appears we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is..." (1 JOHN 3:3).

And …

"While we live in this earthly tent, we groan with a feeling of oppression; it is not that we want to get rid of our earthly body, but that we want to have the heavenly one put on over us, so that what is mortal will be transformed by life..." (2 COR 5:4)

Phil 3:21 tells us that Jesus will change our bodies to be just like his glorious body".

In heaven we get a new body... And if we’re honest we’d have to admit that living in this body is not so great. Our earthly bodies get tired, feel pain, get sick, and our bodies grow older; move slower. They sag, our eyes dim, our ears dull, and things falls out (eg hair & teeth).

And most People are not really happy with their body anyway , billions are spent every year to cover up, make up, lift up and change the flaws in our bodies.

Well, in heaven we won’t need to do that anymore because -- we get a new body, a better one, an eternal one; one that doesn’t get tired, feel pain, get sick, sag or fall out...

Getting a new body is one reason that heaven is going to be the best trip you ever took.

JOHN 14:1-3 Jesus told his disciples (and us) that he was going to prepare a home for us. A great mansion.

HEBREWS 11:10 calls it the city whose builder and maker is God, himself.
Over the years, Lynn and I, because of finances (or other circumstances) have stayed in some pretty run-down motels (Tell story of Zane Grey motel). {Lynn and I once had to stay in a run down old motel that was accessed by a dirt road. When we turned off the lights, we could hear the roaches running across the floor. Our feet stuck to the floor when we walked barefoot.}

But heaven is not like that! Heaven is the perfect house. Because it was planned and built by the best builder in the business. God himself!

Yes, heaven is going to be the best trip you’ve ever taken because of the home we will live in.

This weekend we’ve had a good school reunion. Many of the classes have met together. One of the graduating classes met in our fellowship hall. But those reunions are sometimes bittersweet. Because they remind us of our age.* And they remind us of who is not there. Each year, a high class grows smaller. And the same goes for our family reunions.

But when we all meet together in heaven, it won’t be that way!
Read 1 THESSALONIANS 4:13-17

When Christ comes back to this earth, the dead in Christ will arise and those who "ARE STILL alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever." (1 Thess. 4:16-17).

I am looking forward to being with my friends and relatives again. Aren’t you?

What a great family reunion!

#4. Heaven is going to be the best trip you’ve ever taken because of what will not be there.

NO MORE: hunger, thirst, scorching heat, no more tears, no more pain. no more bad guys , no more bullies, no more hate, no more sickness, no more old age, no more death! (Read Revelation 7: 16-17; and Rev. 21:4).

Every friend and relative who died in Christ will be waiting for you in heaven (see Revelation 7:9ff). Don’t you know that there will be a great party when you get there! Every Christian who meant a lot to you in this life will be waiting to greet you and celebrate with you. And with one voice we will all praise God from whom all blessings flow.

Conclusion

There is a story told about an 11-year-old boy. He was dying of lung cancer. (I have been around far too many friends and relatives who have experienced this disease.)

It is a terrifying disease in its final stages. The lungs fill with fluid, and the patient is unable to breathe. It is terribly claustrophobic, especially for a young child who really couldn’t understand what was happening to him. But that boy had two things that many adults do not have. First, that young boy was a Christian. (Just before he came down will his illness, he obeyed the Lord in baptism. He put on Christ, calling on his name.)

And, second, this little boy had a Christian mother who loved him and stayed by his side through the long ordeal. She cradled him on her lap and talked softly about the Lord. Instinctively, the woman was preparing her son for the final hours to come. One day as death approached, and the nurse heard this lad talking about a wonderful Chorus singing. "They’re singing, Mom," he said. "I can hear them."

The nurse thought he was hallucinating because he was already slipping away. She left and returned a few minutes later and again heard him talking about hearing the great song. The nurse said to his mother, 'I'm sure you know your boy is hearing things that aren't there. He is hallucinating because of the sickness."

The mother pulled her son closer to her chest, smiled and said, "No, he is not hallucinating. I told him … when he was frightened — when he couldn't breathe — if he would listen carefully, he could hear the angels of heaven singing for him. That is what he's been talking about all day." That precious child died on his mother's lap later that evening, and he was still talking about the songs of heaven when the angels came to take him.

"They sing in heaven a new song of Moses and the Lamb."

Therefore….

"Sing to me of heaven, let me fondly dream, of its golden glory, of its pearly gleam. Sing to me when shadows of the evening fall, sing to me of heaven. Sing the sweetest song of all" (Another old hymn).

If you are ready for heaven … then rejoice. If you are not, then I urge you to come forward today. Know the joy of being prepared for the most important trip you will ever take!

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By Larry Fitzgerald

Cisco Church of Christ

Exodus 20:12

"Honor your (father and) mother." This is a command from God. It was part of the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20: 12. But it is more than a command. It is a command with a promise. As Paul points out, "that it may be well with you and so your days may be long upon this earth" (Eph. 6:3).

Jesus honored his mother, Mary. She was quite a lady … quite a woman of God.

This is a photo album.

You can learn a lot from photo albums. Today, I propose that we look at an album from the family of Jesus. As we look through this photo album, we see seven reasons why Jesus honored Mary as his mother – and seven reasons why we should honor our mothers.

# 1. On the first page of our photo album, we see Mary … traveling with Joseph to Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-7). You will note that Mary is about to have a baby. And why did she do this even though it was obviously difficult for her? Because, a good mother does whatever is necessary for her family.

A few years ago, when the volcano, Mount St. Helens erupted it left destruction in its wake. After the most series eruption and the forest fire that followed, a fireman was walking through the aftermath of the fire. He looked down and noticed a bird on the ground. The bird had been burned to death but she stood there – like a charcoal statue. The sight made the fireman sick to his stomach so he kicked at the body. It broke into ashes. But suddenly three little chicks ran out. When the little mother bird saw the fire coming, she could have flown and saved her own life. Instead, she gathered her children under her wing and protected them with her own. She gave her life to save her own children.

And I put it to you that what God has instilled in nature by instinct is found in the best mothers of all time. Our mothers are due honor because she will do whatever is necessary for her family … her husband, her children and her grandchildren – to keep them safe and to help them in their lives.

Most of us can truly make this statement: "Our mothers sacrificed so much for our sakes."

No wonder the Bible commands us to honor our mothers.

#2. On the second page of our photo album we see a picture of Mary and Joseph going from Bethlehem to Jerusalem. Jesus has been born. Angels have sung about his birth. Shepherds have come to honor him. A month passes, and his parents are taking the baby Jesus to the temple to be dedicated, as prescribed by the Old Testament (Luke 2:41-52). Why did they do this? For one reason. A good mother (and father) tries to instill in her children faith in God. That’s what Mary did for Jesus. Her faith and her obedience were an example for him.

Throughout the ages, many great people of faith had the example of Godly mothers. In the Bible, we are told that the young evangelist Timothy was a man of great faith. Paul tells us that he inherited that faith. It came from a Godly mother and grandmother (2 Timothy 1:5).

Children need good examples in their life. They have plenty of people willing to be bad examples. J. W. Chapman tells the story about when he was holding a gospel meeting in a town in Texas. The first night of the meeting, a lady came up to him and said, "My son is in prison in the next city. Would you go and visit him and try to win him to Christ?"

J.W. said he would. A few days later he went to the prison during visitation hours. The young man came out and J.W. introduced himself and said, "Your mom wanted me to visit you and to ask you to become a Christian."

The young man laughed, and then with sarcasm in his voice he said, "My mother is the reason I’m in this place!"

Why is that?

"Because when I was little she was always treasurer for the Little League and PTA. I would watch her as she would swindle the organizations out of money. I learned how she got away with it. But I didn’t learn well enough. Because when I tried it at my company, I got caught."

The truth is, mothers are examples whether they want to be or not. The only question is: "what type of example do they choose to be?" Mary was a good example to Jesus. In her, Jesus saw a mother’s love for him and her God. And when you think of your mother, you should remember all the good things she taught you by her example. Especially remember how she took you to church and read Bible stories to you.

Yes, a good mother is worthy of honor because she tries to instill faith in her children.

#3. On the third page of our photo album, we see Mary (and Joseph) fleeing to the foreign land of Egypt (Matthew 2). You know the story. The wise men came to Jerusalem, asking: "where is he who is born king of the Jews?" King Herod heard about this. And in his insanity tried to have all the young babies in Bethlehem murdered. He was afraid that a little baby might depose him as king. But God warned Joseph in a dream. Joseph woke from that dream and told Mary and they immediately obeyed God’s command to leave the country. There was no hesitation. That’s because a good mother protects her children.

#4. On the fourth page of our photo album, we see Mary searching for her lost 12 year-old son. You see, when Jesus was 12, his parents took him to the temple for their annual pilgrimage. When Jesus’ family went back home, his mom and dad thought that he was with one of the other relatives. We they realized that Jesus was gone, they frantically went back to Jerusalem and searched for their son. This picture is of Mary searching everywhere for him. That’s because, a good mother worries about her children – especially when they are lost.

Throughout the years that I have been a preacher, one of the most common worries that any mother has had for her children – whether they are teenagers or adults – is their soul’s condition. The best mothers are concerned for their children’s spiritual welfare.

On a tombstone in Pennsylvania, we find this inscription from a mother who lived in the 1700s. "Here lies Martha with a prayer that her children will follow her to heaven."

Is your Mom concerned about your spiritual welfare? Then thank God that you were given such a wonderful mother. She is worthy of honor.

#5. On the fifth page of our photo album, we see Mary at a wedding feast in Cana. It was Mary who asked Jesus to perform his first miracle (John 2:1-12). Mary knew that Jesus could perform a miracle and save the wedding feast. And later, when people were saying that Jesus was insane, even when her other four sons were thinking this, Mary still believed in Jesus.

A good mother believes in her children. (Likewise, a good grandmother believes in her grandchildren … knowing that they can do great things with the right encouragement.) Discouragement is one of the great barriers of all time. It is a wall between you and success. One of the greatest affirmations of all time came from the Apostle Paul who said, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Phil. 4:13). Mary encouraged Jesus. She knew he could save the wedding. And thus, he started the work that he was sent to this earth to do.

Whenever your mother encourages you to be the best that you can be, honor her! Why? Because, a good mother believes in her children.

#6. On the sixth page of our photo album, we see Mary standing at the foot of a cross. Tears are streaming down her eyes. Pain is evident in every wrinkle of her aged face. Her son is dying a horrible death. One of the most painful deaths man has ever devised. You see, when Jesus was a baby, it was predicted by a prophet, that a sword would pierce Mary’s heart (Luke 2:35). This was fulfilled when she had to watch her son die for the world. When others abandoned Jesus, Mary was at the foot of the cross … despite the threat from the Romans. A good mother sticks by her children when times are difficult.

Pauline Pearson was a young lady who lived in Florida. She was a bright, loving young lady with a great future ahead of her. She had just graduated from college with a degree in business ... she took a new job. Her company was so impressed with her that she started right away. But she had 90 days to go before her health insurance became effective. She went to a dentist and was infected with a highly contagious disease. Within a few weeks, Pauline was horribly ill. She lost her job and had no health insurance. But her mother moved Pauline into her home and cared for her – day after day. Several times, they thought Pauline wasn’t going to make it. Her mother paid all of Pauline’s bills. She even risked infection from the deadly disease. Today, Pauline is cured. And she will tell you that she knows a mother’s love. She is alive because her mother never quit. Mrs. Pearson is a mother who sticks by her family when times are difficult.

And if your mother is that type of person, she is due honor from her family. Just as Mary stuck by Jesus when he was nailed to the Roman cross.

#7. On the 7^th page of our photo album, we see Mary with her hands in the air. A joy has transformed her face into a great smile. In the distant background, there is an ancient tomb … a cave with a giant stone for a door. But this tomb is different from all others. The stone has been rolled back. The tomb is empty. Jesus lives. He has conquered the grave. He has shown himself alive to his many followers.

From Acts 1:14, we know that Mary became a Christian. She was present with the disciples when the church was born. And when it came her time to leave this world there was waiting … her son. What a great family reunion that was.

That’s because a good mother is a Christian. For only with this commitment is there the possibility of living throughout eternity with our children, and grandchildren … and for that matter all of our loved ones.

Yes, we should honor our mothers. It is commanded. And it is a good thing to do. But the greatest honor we could ever show our mothers and our fathers – is by becoming Christians ourselves.

Some people, at times, refuse to make this commitment because their parents were not members of God’s kingdom here on this earth. Jesus has an answer to that. Take a look at the story of Lazarus and the rich man in Luke 16. When the rich man lived upon this world his only thought was about his business. But as soon as he died, he was concerned about his relative’s salvation. It didn’t matter what he said or did on this earth. What he wanted was someone to tell his brothers the gospel, the good news so they would spend eternity with God.

And the truth is, no matter what your parents said to you about the Lord’s church or salvation on this world, even if they did not reach heaven (and we are not their judges), it is their deepest desire that you be saved now. Don’t ask, what did your mother want you to do when she was on this earth. Do ask, what does she want you to do, now? The story of Lazarus and the rich man teaches us the answer. She wants you to become a dedicated member of the Lord’s church.

Mary loved Jesus with all her heart (Luke 2:41-52). Every good thing that was said about him … every good thing that he did … she "treasured in her heart." A good mother loves her family.

Who is the antichrist?  3

By Larry Fitzgerald

It always amazes me that many writers and preachers, who talk about a “future” antichrist will go to passages in the books of Revelation, Matthew and Daniel, etc. However, you will note that none of these passages uses the term “antichrist.” There are four passages in the Bible that use this term. So why don’t these teachers refer to these passages?

Maybe it’s because they don’t say what they want!

These four passages are found in 1 & 2 John.*

#1. 1 John 2:18 – Here John tells us that not only is this the era known as “the last days” but this is “the last hour.” He says, “you have heard that antichrist is coming.” Now “many antichrists have come.” (Wait a minute, John, don’t you know that “Brother XYZ” of the first united sacramental denominational church has spent years writing and preaching that “the Antichrist” is a future person with 666 tattooed to his noggin?) So who is the antichrist? The plain, simple answer is revealed in the scriptures, below.

#2. 1 John 2:22 – Here is John’s plain and simple answer. “This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and Son.” Anyone who speaks against Jehovah or Jesus is the antichrist. That’s what the word means. “Anti” (Against) + Christ. Nothing mystical about this! Anyone who refuses to acknowledge that Jesus is God or that Jehovah is God is the antichrist. This flies in the face of the current American philosophy of accepting any religion as long as the followers are sincere. If they practice Islam, Native American (Indian) Animism, oriental mysticism – they are antichrists. This also applies to the “Christian Cults” which deny the god-hood of Christ (John 20:28). What role does Satan and his demons play in the antichrist? That’s found in the third reference that uses the term “antichrist.”

#3. 1 John 4:1-3 – Here John warns his readers to “test the spirits” of prophets because many false prophets have gone out into the world. Satan has his own realm of spirits and these demons are constantly at work … trying to hurt you. John says that every spirit which does not confess the truth about Jesus is not “of God.” Then in verse 3, he plainly says “every spirit which does not confess Jesus is not of God. This is the spirit of antichrist.” And note how he concludes this verse. You have heard that THE ANTICHRIST is coming … it is now in the world, already. The Satanic spirit known as “The Antichrist” came in the first century A.D. It has been tormenting Christians ever since. Any religious group that does not teach this truth is blind to the clear teachings of the Bible and obviously blinded to the actions of the world around us.

#4. 2 John 7 – is the fourth and final verse in the Bible that uses the term, “antichrist.” Here John re-emphasizes what has already been taught. Many deceivers had gone out into the first century world. They were teaching against Christ … denying that he came in the flesh. Such a deceiver, says John, is the antichrist.

Four clear passages use the term “antichrist.” So why do so many teachers not write about these verses? Could it be that they, too, are falling into the trap that John was warning about? They have an agenda and these verses don’t fit into their scheme of things. Any religious scheme that cannot even get the identity correct about who is the antichrist must be full of error.

Yes, the antichrist is here. Has been here for 20 centuries. But thank God that he has given us the power to overcome the evil one by the plain teachings of the Lord’s word (see 2 John 9).

What does the New Testament mean by "not saved by works of the law?"

by Larry Fitzgerald

Cisco Church of Christ

What does the Bible (both Old and New Testament) mean by the phrase, "the law?" (Using the definite article, THE, what did Paul, Jesus, and all the others mean by this phrase?)

The Jews divided their Bible (what we call the Old Testament) into three sections: The law, The Prophets, and The Writings (or Psalms). Jesus used that three-fold division in Luke 24:44. Often they just referred to the first two divisions (The Law and The Prophets) (i.e. Matthew 5:17). I have a Jewish Bible that still has these three-fold divisions.

To the Jew, and later to the readers of the New Testament, "The law" was the Old Covenant or what we call "The Old Testament." That covenant/testament/contract is what Jesus nailed to the cross (Colossians 2:14-17; Hebrews chs. 8-10). In Paul’s extensive discussion of the way of faith (the New Testament) vs. the law, in Galatians, Paul quotes Deuteronomy 27:26, when he says, "For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written ‘Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the book of the law, and do them’" (Galatians 3:10). When you look at the context of that quote in Deuteronomy 27, you discover that Moses was renewing the (old) covenant with the Jews (Deut. 27:1-14). Note particularly Deut. 27:3 (when you go into the Promised Land, "you shall write upon (stone pillars) all the words of this law"…. And, Deut. 27: 8, "And you shall write upon the stones all the words of this law very plainly." Then in Deut. 27:15-25, Moses repeats, and elaborates on, the Ten Commandments (the highest part of the Old Testament law). V. 15 – no idols; v. 16 -- honor parents; v. 17 -- landmark laws (no stealing); etc., etc. Then in v. 26 (the end of the chapter) Moses says, "Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the book of the law, and do them."

The use of the phrase, the law, as meaning the Old Testament, is seen in such New Testament passages as Hebrews 8:4, "Now if he were on earth, he would not be a priest at all, since there are priests who offer gifts according to the law." Hebrews 9:21-22, "And in the same way he sprinkled with the blood both the tent and all the vessels used in worship. Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood…". Hebrews 10:1, "For since the law has but a shadow of the good things to come instead of the true form of these realities, it can never, by the same sacrifices which are continually offered year after year, make perfect those who draw near."

The book of Romans deals extensively with "works of the law." Note Romans 7:1, "Do you not know brethren – for I am speaking to those who know the law – that the law is binding on a person only during his life?" Romans 7:6, "But now we are discharged from the law, dead to that which held us captive, so that we serve not under the old written code but in the new life of the Spirit." Romans 2:25, 27, "Circumcision indeed is of value if you obey the law; but if you break the law, your circumcision becomes uncircumcision … Then those who are physically uncircumcised but keep the law will condemn you who have the written code and circumcision but break the law." {Also note the used of the "written code in 2 Corinthians 3:6, "… who has made us to be ministers of a new covenant (New Testament) not in a written code but in the Spirit; for the written code kills, but the Spirit gives life."}

Galatians 4:21, "Tell me, you who desire to be under the law, do you not hear the law? For it is written that Abraham had two sons…".

One of the main problems that Paul had to face was the problem of the Judaizers. These were the first Christian legalists who insisted that Gentile converts had to adhere to part of the law (the Old Testament) – specifically circumcision, keeping of the Old Testament holy days, food requirements, etc. Acts 15 records the Jerusalem conference in which these issues were considered. Also, Paul talks about them in Colossians 2:16-23; Galatians 4:8-10; Galatians 5:1-6, etc.). It is to these Judaizers that Paul wrote: "You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen from grace. "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is of any avail, but faith working in love" (Galatians 5:4, 6).

Does this mean that there is no law under the New Testament? Of course not! The writers of the New Testament indicate that there is a law. In fact, they give it new names like "The Law Of The Spirit of life in Christ Jesus" (which has set me free from the law of sin death – the Old Testament) (Romans 8:2). The Royal law (James 2:8); The Law Of Liberty (James 2:12); "The Law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2); etc.

When Paul tells us that we are not under the law, he does not mean that we don’t have to keep God’s NEW TESTAMENT commandments.

Jesus said, "If you love me you will keep my commandments" (John 13:35). Thus obedience is required of love.

James said, "You see that a man is justified works and not by faith alone" (James 2:24) [the only use of the phrase ‘faith alone’ in the Bible]. "For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so faith apart from works is dead." (James 2:26).

Paul tells us in the beginning and in the end of Romans that his aim is to bring the "obedience of faith" (Romans 1:5; Romans 16:26). And he tells us what is of value is "faith working in love" (Galatians 5:6, RSV).

It was Martin Luther, reacting against the Roman Catholic form of legalism, who interpreted Romans 4 and Galatians 2:16 to mean that we are justified by only our belief (or faith) in God. However, up to that point in the history of Christianity, we do not find that belief. Luther, then, excluded the book of James from the Bible – calling it a "straw epistle." Some historical legends say that he took a penknife and cut the book out of his Bible. This is interesting because one of the marks of a cult or cult leader is the rejection of part (or all) of the Bible (A. A. Hoekema, The Four Major Cults, Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, pp. 2-3). I’m not implying that Luther was a cult leader, though.

However, it is plain, when you understand what Paul meant by "the law," what he was saying. Also, the context of each of these passages is clear – Paul is talking about justifying your salvation by the works of the Old Testament. In each instance in which Paul talks about being saved by faith and not works of the law, he is always referring to some form of Judaism … usually the act of circumcision. Some examples of this are: Romans 4:10-12; Galatians 5:2; Ephesians 2:11; and Colossians 2:11-23.

Furthermore, there are some actions --which are not works -- but are essential to salvation. Sometimes, these actions are called "works" but they are not. An example of this is baptism. Baptism is not a work of man. In it, the recipient does nothing. (Even the physical act of plunging is done by someone else.) In baptism, the recipient pleads with God for a clear conscience and God grants to him that clear conscience. Hence, Peter says, "Baptism, which corresponds to (the flood of Noah) now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a clear conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 3:21, RSV).

Galatians 5:6 is a very important verse in the understanding of this topic. "… in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is of any avail, but faith working through love." Unfortunately, the NIV did not do a good job of translating the verse. The NIV says what counts is "faith expressing itself in love." Following are some more accurate translations of that verse.

"… faith which worketh by love" (KJV).

… faith working through love" (ASV).

… faith working through love" (NASV).

… faith working through love" (NKJV).

… faith working through love" (RSV).

"The important thing is faith – the kind that works through love" (ERV).

As you can see, the term "expressing" was a commentary made by the NIV translators not a translation.

All people were made in the image of God (Genesis 1:26). Therefore, all people have an inward longing to be in fellowship with God. Paul mentions this longing in his sermon on Mars Hill. He also notes that even in the pagan religions there is some religious truth expressed since he quotes Epimenides and Aratus (Pagan Greek poets) in Acts 17:28-29. This does not make the pagans correct in all their teachings. However, even many non-Christians lead lives of service and devotion. Yet, they cannot be said to be "Spirit led." Notwithstanding, they feel good about their religion and claim to be led by their ‘spirits.’ The truth is, our feelings are important. We are to be emotional creatures practicing love, etc. But our feelings are poor leaders. Instead, we should search the scriptures to see if the things we believe are true, just as the Borean Christians did (Acts 17:11).

Now, concerning THE Law. Any rule or regulation is "A law." However, if we say "THE law," we are referring to a specific legal system. If I travel to Canada and I say, I do not have my rifle in my car because THE law prevented me from crossing the border with a gun, then I am not referring to U.S. law. I am referring to Canadian law. When Jesus said, "Think not that I have come to abolish THE law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them but to fulfill them" (Matthew 5:17), he was referring to a specific law.

Baptist commentator, Alvah Hovey, wrote about this phrase in His Commentary on Matthew, published by the American Baptist Publication Society, 1886, p.99.

Dr. Hovey wrote: "… ‘the law’ being the five books of Moses, and ‘the prophets’ the remainder." "In some other cases ‘the law’ denotes the whole (Old Testament)." For this last statement, Dr. Hovey lists 1 Cor. 14:21 as an example. "In THE law it is written…".

John tells us: "For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ" (John 1:17). Thus it is obvious that when the Bible uses the phrase "the law" it refers to the Old Testament, as Dr. Hovey points out. Hence, "THE law was a shadow of the good things to come instead of the true form of these realities" (Hebrews 10:1). "Therefore he is a mediator of a new covenant…" (Hebrews 9:15).

Therefore, when Paul uses the term "works" he adds the phrase "of the law" meaning "works of the law of Moses" as the basis of justification. Notice Galatians 2:16; 3:11; 5:4. He insists that Abraham’s justification (in Romans 4) is apart from works of THE law because Abraham came before Moses’ law of circumcision. The obvious conclusion is this: when Paul says, "we are not saved by works of THE law," he is telling us that the Old Testament does not save us.

By Larry Fitzgerald

Cisco Church of Christ

The Bible tells us that the spiritually mature will obey God out of love. This is the ideal. However, babes in Christ sometimes do their works out of a fear of punishment. This is true of any religious group. {"Those who love me will keep my commandments" (John 14:15). Vs. "… let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God…" (Hebrews 6:1).}

However, I would like to point that throughout the New Testament there is the constant warning (threat) of punishment (ie 1 Peter 4:18:Revelation 21:8, etc.). So maybe the threat of punishment is not that bad, either.

By Larry Fitzgerald

Cisco Church of Christ

Some people assign things as "works of man" when they are really works of God. Baptism is one such "work of God." Read 1 Peter 3:21. (Even the NIV cannot mess it up.) "…this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also – not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ…". It does not say, "we are saved by the resurrection of Jesus Christ and then we are baptized." It does say, "… baptism that now saves you…".

When a sailor throws a life preserver to a drowning man what saves him? The answer is threefold. First, it is the sailor who throws the preserver. The sailor does not have to do it. It is his free gift to the drowning man. Second, it is the preserver, itself. Third, it is the man grasping the preserver. The second and third things do not nullify the gift of the first. And the action of grasping the preserver does not constitute earning the gift – merely accepting it. Jesus is the sailor. The preserver is baptism. Our appeal is the grasping of the preserver.

Concerning baptism, please note the similar language used by Jesus in Matthew and Peter in Acts. "… this is the blood of the new covenant which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins" (Matthew 26:27). "Repent and be baptized everyone one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…". The exact same wording and phrases are used. It is at the point of baptism that our sins are washed away (Acts 22:16). It is at the point of baptism that we are put "in Christ" (Romans 6:3; Galatians 3:27).

Some people say that "to be saved all we have to do is ask Christ into our hearts." Baptism is how we ask Christ into our hearts … it is "prayer manifested in action." That is why we are told "baptism … now saves you … as an appeal to God for a clear conscience" (1 Peter 3:21).

It is at baptism that the Holy Spirit comes into our hearts. That is the gift of the Holy Spirit that we receive at baptism (Acts 2:38). If it is not the Holy Spirit, himself, what then is the gift? And if baptism is the point when the Holy Spirit indwells us, then baptism must be the point of salvation because "anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him" (Romans 8:9).

By Larry Fitzgerald

Cisco Church of Christ

There is not one instance of praying to Jesus in the New Testament. Why not?

In the New Testament, the only time people spoke directly to Jesus (after his ascension) is when he appeared to them (Stephen, Paul and John). Jesus is our mediator. A mediator is a legal term for "advocate." He is our "go-between" between Jehovah and us. Moses was the mediator between the Israelites and Jehovah (Galatians 3:19) but Jews did not pray to Moses.

Now, here is a little exercise for you. Go back in the early Christian literature and try to find any reference that says that we are saved prior to Baptism. You cannot find it earlier than Martin Luther and the Reformation leaders.

Why?

If it is was true why don’t you find it among the writers who sat at the feet of John the Apostle or Paul’s "grandchildren in the faith?" I know that these writers are not inspired but isn’t strange that within one generation no one has heard of "baptism after salvation?" Included is a list of second century A.D. Christian leaders in the church. Note what they say concerning baptism and salvation.

By Larry Fitzgerald

Cisco Church of Christ

Q: When did the Holy Spirit stop being active in God’s church?

A: The Holy Spirit never stopped being active in God’s church. Wherever did you get that idea? Sure, there are a lot of feelings associated with being "in the Spirit." And that is part of how He acts in the church – producing love, joy and peace (see Galatians 5:22-24). However, I am quick to point out that people of non-Christ-based religions also lay claim to these feelings.

One of the Holy Spirit’s greatest tools is the word, which He inspired. Through the Bible, He convicts (John 16:7-11 compared to 2 Timothy 3:16-17 and 4:2). Through the Bible, He convicts us of sin (John 3:18 compared to 8:24). Through the Bible, He convicts us of righteousness (Acts 2:22-23, 33; 3:14; 7:52; 1 Peter 3:18; 1 John 2:1). Through the Bible, He convicts us of Judgment (John 12:31-32; Hebrews 2:14-15). Great joy comes from hearing this word which tells us of Jesus and God’s dealings with man. And it is by this word, we are assured of the presence of the Holy Spirit.

The seal of our salvation is the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14). We receive the Holy Spirit at our Repentance and Baptism (Acts 2:38) following our initial faith in God (Ephesians 1:13). This seal is our guarantee of our salvation. The Holy Spirit is our seal. A feeling is not the seal.

The Holy Spirit is the author of the scriptures but he doesn’t give different interpretations to different people. That is a philosophy born out of existentialism – not the Bible. God, in his providence, may help us understand the scriptures better. But God makes it plain that:

1. We do not have the right to read meaning into scripture (2 Peter 1:20-21, best read in the RSV).
2. Not all interpretations are correct no matter how sincere a person is (example, Matthew 22:29).
3. The best way to understand meaning is to use the Bible to interpret itself as Jesus did in Matthew 4:6-7.

If the Holy Spirit does guide and council certain religious leaders why is there such a split right now among such religious leaders? Is God the author of confusion?

By Larry Fitzgerald

Cisco Church of Christ

Q: "Isn’t insisting on our own doctrine just another thing that results in foolish, sinful controversies?"

A: By "our own doctrine," I hope you mean "what the Bible teaches" because we should never create our own doctrine – just follow the Bible. In answer to your question, when Paul was telling Titus to avoid foolish controversies … he was not telling him not to defend the truth … especially the truth of the plan of salvation. In fact, he was speaking about the law (see notes on "The Law") and those who tried going back to the lineage (genealogies) and other quarrels concerning first century Judaism. "For a bishop, as God’s steward … must hold firm to the sure word as taught, so that he might be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to confute those who contradict it" (Titus 1:7a, 9). "Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith, instead of giving head to Jewish myths or to commands of men who reject the truth" (Titus 1:13-14). Defending the truth is the responsibility of all true Christians. This should always be done in love (Ephesians 4:15). And in speaking the truth, we should never forget that we are commanded to be courteous to every person at all times. "… show perfect courtesy toward all (people)" (Titus 3:2). "Telling it like it is" … does not justify rudeness or a lack of courtesy. Courtesy is as much a command as "do not commit adultery" or "do not steal."

Bulletin Article

By Larry Fitzgerald

Cisco Church of Christ

Like most churches, we've had a Vacation Bible School each summer for decades. It’s one of the main things we do each summer to minister to children (and teens and adults). VBS requires months of planning, dozens of volunteers (it takes about 50 adults in Cisco), and major amounts of church resources to make it happen. VBS is a large investment of time, energy and money.

So the question is: Is VBS worth it?

In an age where many things in our churches are being changed (and even discarded), it’s interesting to see the enduring value of Vacation Bible School. Although the basic organization of the VBS has evolved, the use of Bible stories, singing, Bible story telling and crafts have essentially unchanged.

And for very good reason! VBS is probably one of the church’s most effective means of teaching children about Jesus, the church, and Christian ethics. In the final analysis, its purpose is not to entertain children but to introduce them to the truth about Jesus and the joys of our faith.

Is VBS worth the effort? Yes! For a variety of reasons.

#1. VBS draws many children and young people (and even some adults) who have had little to no exposure to the Lord’s church. Every person has the right to hear the gospel message. VBS gives us that opportunity.

#2. VBS is a wonderful opportunity to do intensive Bible teaching and training. Children attend secular school around 7 hours a day – not counting the time they spend on extra curricular activities. That’s 35 hours a week for 10 months. That’s approximately 1500 hours per year of secular training. If they go to Bible school both Wednesday and Sunday, they get only 2 hours of Bible per week (around 100 hours per year). Since our final soul’s destination is worth more than any secular training then why do our kids study secular subjects far more (on a 15 to 1 basis)? VBS gives our children a better exposure.

#3. VBS also gives us an opportunity to teach our adults, as well, in our seminar-style class.

A couple of years ago, I heard a missionary speak. In his lesson he mentioned that his first exposure to the gospel plan of salvation came because he attended a VBS at a nearby church of Christ. "The reason that both my wife and I are Christians today," he said. "Is because someone in their town cared enough to invite them to a VBS." In both instances, of and on throughout their lives, they would attend various churches of Christ. Then when they were contemplating marriage and raising a family, they went to a nearby congregation and were baptized. Today, they have devoted their lives to doing foreign missions work … all because a congregation of people believed that doing a VBS was worth the effort.

Bulletin Article

Children need Godly parents 11
By Larry Fitzgerald

Cisco Church of Christ

A couple of years ago, some young people were arrested in a little town east of Dallas, Texas. One of the kids was a 16 year-old by the name of Tommy. The boys were being held in jail until they could be released into the custody of their parents. Tommy’s red-faced father stormed into the police station and when his son came out of the lock-up he yelled, "where did you learn to do drugs like this?"

To which the boy, with defiance in his voice, said in very clear tones, "From you, Dad."

His father and mother had been doing drugs in their living room for years – thinking they were hiding it from their kids. But teenagers have a way of seeing through their parents’ sin.

And the truth is, they need parents who are good examples. I didn’t say perfect parents, but each kid needs a mother and a father who can be looked up to.

And when they have that type of example, then teenagers and young children are called upon to squash their natural tendencies to rebel. Instead, God asks them to obey and honor their parents. The Bible says: "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right … And fathers (parents) … bring your children up in the training and admonition of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:1,4b).

When our children have grown up, may we be able to say with Solomon, "When I was a son with my father … he taught me, and said to me, "Let your heart hold fast my words; keep my commandments, and live." (Proverbs 4:3-4).

What are you doing to bring your children up, right? (One of the most important things you could ever do for your children is to bring them to church and Bible school.)

A Sample Wedding Ceremony (Unity Candle) 12

Jim ____ and Judy _____

Second song; One verse, then Judy enters. Hands rose to mother.

1. "We are gathered together at this special time to witness the uniting of Jim ____ and Judy _______ in the enduring bonds of Christian marriage."
2. "In the beginning, God created man and woman. He then brought the first woman, Eve, to Adam. That was the first wedding ceremony. We don’t know what was said, then. But the Bible does add this comment to this first wedding, it says, ‘therefore a man will leave his father and mother and cleave to his wife.’

1. When a man and a woman become husband and wife, they leave their families and ‘cleave to each other.’
2. This does not mean that we stop loving our parents, our brothers and sisters (and others). But we are to cleave to our spouses. And they become 2^nd only to God himself, in our lives.
3. This takes love. The Bible says: "Husbands love your wives as Jesus loved the church and gave himself up for her." And the Bible commands the older women to teach the younger women how to love their husbands.
4. Love is the chief emotion. It is so very important, that we are told that God is love.
5. Love comes from God. In fact, we inherited love from the Heavenly Father who made us in his image.
6. The Bible tells us what love is. 1 Cor. 13 is a partial description of love.

1. Read 1 Cor. 13:1-7.
2. Love is the greatest emotion. In fact, the Bible tells us here in the concluding verses of this chapter, that of the three greatest things of this universe – faith, hope and love – the greatest is love.
3. Love is patient. Even when one gets on the others’ nerves, love understands. It is patient.
4. Love is kind. Because of your love, you will strive not to say hurtful things. But be considerate of each other. Love is not rude.
5. Love is not jealous. Jealousy can destroy a relationship. When something goes right for the other, rejoice in their happiness.
6. Love is not boastful. Arrogance and conceit has no place in a marriage. But in humility count the other as better than yourself.
7. Love does not insist on its own way. Always be thinking of the other. Put the other’s desires above your own.
8. Love does not rejoice in the wrong but rejoices in the right. Make this the banner of your marriage.
9. Love bears all things. Believes all things. Hopes all things. Endures all things.

1. But the greatest aspect of love is that it is willing to sacrifice. God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son." "Greater love has no man than this that he should die for his friends." Love sacrifices.
2. In the years to come, you will be called upon to sacrifice for each other. Some say that marriage is a 50-50 situation. That is not true. It is 100-100. Jim, You give 100% to your wife. And Judy, you give 100% to your husband.
3. I charge you to build your marriage on two great principles. 1. Love each other like Christ loves you, with an attitude of sacrifice. 2. Do not leave God out of your family. If HE comes 1^st in your life, then that will make your marriage better – far better than anything else.
4. Jim, you are now entering into a relationship with many privileges … but many obligations, as well. The woman you love is about to become your wife. In no way could she so tell of her love for you as by her willingness to turn from her home and loved ones and friends to make you her number one person in her life.
5. Judy, you, too are entering into a relationship with many privileges and obligations. Jim tells the world of his desire to turn from all others to you for the rest of life ahead. You love will be his inspiration and your prayers his tower of strength.

(Let us pray).

1. Now, we come to the time in which I ask you to pledge your love to each other.

1. Jim, do you take Judy to be your lawfully wedded wife? To live together after God’s ordinances? Will you love her, comfort her, honor her and provide for her, in sickness and in health; forsaking all others as long as you both shall live?
2. Judy, do you take Jim to be your lawfully wedded husband? To live together after God’s ordinances? Will you love him, comfort him, and honor him, in sickness and in health; forsaking all others as long as you both shall live?

1. Please take the ring for Judy.

1. The ring is a symbol. It is a circle because a circle is never broken. Marriage is intended to last your lifetime, until death do you part.
2. Jim, please place the ring on Judy’s finger, and repeat after me: "With this ring, I thee wed."

1. Please the ring for Jim?

1. Wedding rings are often made of gold – because gold is a symbol of purity. You are to keep yourselves pure in your relationship to each other. The gold of this ring should remind each of you of this pledge.
2. Now, Judy, place the ring on Jim’s finger and repeat after me. "With this ring, I thee wed."

1. Jim and Judy have chosen to light a unity candle. A marriage is the unity of many things. Two families become one. Two sets of friends become. But most of all, two hearts become one. At this time you may light your candle."
2. (3^rd Song starts) (Candle is lit)

 

3. "Now, by the authority vested in me by the state of Texas and by the higher authority of God, I now pronounce you husband and wife. And what God has joined together, let not man put asunder.
4. You may kiss the bride.
5. It is my honor to present to you Mr. and Mrs. Jim ____. And what God has joined together, let no man put asunder."
6. (4^th song starts/ Judy hands rose to mother in law.) (Recessional)

*All songs are a cappella

Jay ____ and Karen ______

1. "Who gives Karen to be Jay’s wife?" (Father answers: "Her mother and I." Father takes seat.)
2. "In the beginning, God created man and woman. He then brought the first woman, Eve, to Adam. That was the first wedding ceremony. We don’t know what was said, then. But the Bible does add this comment to this first wedding, it says, "therefore a man will leave his father and mother and cleave to his wife."

1. When a man and a woman become husband and wife, they leave their families and cleave to each other.
2. This does not mean that we stop loving our parents, our brothers and sisters (and others). But we are to cleave to our spouses. And they become 2^nd only to God himself, in our lives.
3. This takes love. The Bible says: "Husbands love your wives as Jesus loved the church and gave himself up for her." And the Bible commands the older women to teach the younger women how to love their husbands.
4. Love is the chief emotion. It is so very important, that we are told that God is love.
5. Love comes from God. In fact, we inherited love from the Heavenly Father who made us in his image.
6. The Bible tells us what love is. 1 Cor. 13 is a partial description of love."

(Read 1 Cor. 13:1-7.)

1. "Love is the greatest emotion. In fact, the Bible tells us (here in the concluding verses of this chapter), that of the three greatest things of this universe – faith, hope and love – the greatest is love.
2. Love is patient. Even when one gets on the others’ nerves, love understands. It is patient.
3. Love is kind. Because of your love, you will strive not to say hurtful things. But be considerate of each other. Love is not rude.
4. Love is not jealous. Jealousy can destroy a relationship. When something goes right for the other, rejoice in their happiness.
5. Love is not boastful. Arrogance and conceit has no place in a marriage. But in humility count the other as better than yourself.
6. Love does not insist on its own way. Always be thinking of the other. Put the other’s desires above your own.
7. Love does not rejoice in the wrong but rejoices in the right. Make this the banner of your marriage.
8. Love bears all things. Believes all things. Hopes all things. Endures all things.

1. But the greatest aspect of love is that it is willing to sacrifice. ‘God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son.’ ‘Greater love has no man than this that he should die for his friends.’ Love sacrifices.
2. In the years to come, you will be called upon to sacrifice for each other. Some say that marriage is a 50-50 situation. That is not true. It is 100-100. Jay, You give 100% to your wife. And Karen, you give 100% to your husband.
3. I charge you to build your marriage on two great principles. 1. Love each other like Christ loves you, with an attitude of sacrifice. 2. Do not leave God out of your family. If HE comes 1^st in your life, then that will make your marriage better – far better than anything else.

1. Now, we come to the time in which I ask you to pledge your love to each other.

1. Jay, do you take Karen to be your lawfully wedded wife? To live together after God’s ordinances? Will you love her, comfort her, honor her and provide for her, in sickness and in health; forsaking all others as long as you both shall live?
2. Karen, do you take Jay to be your lawfully wedded husband? To live together after God’s ordinances? Will you love him, comfort him, and honor him, in sickness and in health; forsaking all others as long as you both shall live?

1. May I see the ring for Karen?

1. The ring is a symbol. It is a circle because a circle is never broken. Marriage is intended to last your lifetime, until death do you part.
2. Jay, please place the ring on Karen’s finger, and repeat after me: ‘With this ring, I thee wed.’

1. May I see the ring for Jay?

1. Wedding rings are often made of gold – because gold is a symbol of purity. You are to keep yourselves pure in your relationship to each other. The gold of this ring should remind each of you of this pledge.
2. Now, Karen, place the ring on Jay’s finger and repeat after me. ‘With this ring, I thee wed.’

1. Let us conclude this ceremony with a prayer of praise and joy. (Let us pray)
2. Now, by the authority vested in me by the state of Texas and by the higher authority of God, I now pronounce you husband and wife. And what God has joined together, let not man put asunder."
3. You may kiss the bride. It is my honor to present to you Mr. and Mrs. Jay ________."