IRON SHARPENS IRON

Proverbs 27:17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

Iron tools, rubbed against similar hard materials, such as a file or whetstone, will sharpen their edge, making them more effective. Without that friction, resistance, or whetting, they remain dull and will become useless. In the same way, Christians through fellowship and wholesome exchange of ideas increase their effectiveness and improve their walk with Christ. The absence of this kind of relationship with other Christians will eventually cause our spiritual effectiveness to suffer. There are reasons the Bible puts such an emphasis on God’s people having the right kind of fellowship. We need each other. We need the influence of other godly Christians in our lives. This is one benefit of friendship. The counsel and opinions of good friends can help us. Through the right kind of fellowship, “a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.” The right kind of friendships and fellowship will make us better servants of the Lord. Of course, the opposite is also true. The wrong kind of associations or friendships can have a negative affect on us. The Bible tells us that, “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed” (Proverbs 13:20). Friends who constantly undermine our faith and tempt us to compromise are not the type of friends that we need. We need friends who will contribute to our spiritual progress and help us reach our potential for Christ. Christians who are not engaged in the right kind of fellowship are missing out on one of the more important influences we can have in our Christian growth. This verse not only speaks of one of the benefits of friendship, but it also identifies the responsibility of Christian friends. We are to share or exchange ideas with others. Many times, those of us who are Christians enjoy visiting with other believers and having social times together, but without the spiritual conversations and input that contribute to meaningful fellowship. Just spending time together as Christians will not necessarily produce the improved character that this verse speaks of. We need the kind of fellowship that includes discussion about our spiritual journey and opportunities to share with friends what Christ means to us and what He is doing in our lives.

A devotional thought by Pastor Smith of Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Personal Thanksgiving Praise

Deut. 26:11a And thou shalt rejoice in every good thing which the LORD thy God hath given unto thee...

Here are some things I am thankful for as I reflect on this past year:

1. First, I’m thankful I was born in America where there is freedom to preach the Gospel so people can be saved.
2. I’m thankful God allowed me to live long enough to hear the Gospel and trust the Lord Jesus Christ as my Savior. 2 Cor. 9:15 Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.
3. I’m thankful God has given me the Bible, the perfect Word of God, for many people in this world do not have a copy. Psalm 56:10 In God will I praise his word: in the LORD will I praise his word. 1 Thess. 2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
4. I’m thankful for the line of channel of prayer whereby I can bring my petitions, supplications, and intercessions to God 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Psalm 28:6 Blessed be the LORD, because he hath heard the voice of my supplications.
5. I’m thankful for God giving me a godly wife / helpmeet who loves and cares for me, prays for me, and serves the Lord with me. Prov. 31:28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
6. I’m thankful God gave me three Christian sons, three Christian daughters, one Christian son-in-law and one future Christian daughter-in-law who are all actively serving the Lord. Heb. 2:13 And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me.
7. I thankful for the opportunity to serve the Lord through various ministries at the local church which my family and I attend; a church which preaches the Gospel to evangelise both locally and around the world, which edifies and instructs believers, and which glorifies the Lord in all its ministries and activities. 1 Tim. 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;
8. I’m thankful for all the times the Lord has kept me from doing something stupid I would have regretted later. 1 Sam. 25:39 And when David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, Blessed be the LORD, that hath pleaded the cause of my reproach from the hand of Nabal, and hath kept his servant from evil: for the LORD hath returned the wickedness of Nabal upon his own head.
9. I’m thankful for the trials and hardships of life God is using to make me more like Christ. Psalm 119:71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes.
10. I’m thankful for faithful friends who love me, pray for me, and, like iron, sharpen me. Prov. 27:17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

Psalm 89:52 Blessed be the LORD for evermore. Amen, and Amen.

CONSIDER YOUR LATTER END

Deuteronomy 32:29 O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end!

Moses, the aged prophet, had rehearsed God’s dealings with Israel, placed before them a challenge to obey God, and publicly charged Joshua to be his successor. He then taught the children of Israel a song. The verse of Scripture we are considering is actually part of the song that Moses is leaving his people. In speaking of a shortcoming of his beloved people, Moses describes a mistake that is all too familiar today: “O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end!” Moses laments the fact that they were too shortsighted in their vision. They did not consider where their present decisions and choices might lead them. This is good advice for each of us. CONSIDER YOUR LATTER END. If people “would consider their latter end,” it might serve as a strong deterrent to disobedience and an incentive to resist temptations. Israel was guilty of disobeying God’s commandments. They had made marriages with the heathen in defiance of the Word of God. Rather than separating from the ungodly worship of their neighbors, Israelites participated in their idolatrous practices. Where did they think these decisions would lead them? What might be their “latter end”? Are there not consequences for rebellion and disobedience? Chastisement would surely come. The sins of the fathers would invite greater abominations by their children. Idolatry accepted in the high places would open the door for idolatry in the house of God. Eventually, the nation would be overcome by its enemies, the temple destroyed, Jerusalem ravaged, and the people taken captive. They would not “consider their latter end.” Satan wants us to believe that willful disobedience will bring no consequences. He wants us to think only of the immediate, with no regard for the future. God wants us to think about where our journey will lead us. What will be the “latter end”? Where will a life of selfishness end up? Will we be thankful we lived for self rather than for God? Will our children be left with a good example of what Christian living is supposed to be? What about that appointment we all have at the Judgment Seat of Christ? Many heartaches and disappointments could be avoided if people would “consider their latter end.”

A devotional thought by Pastor Smith of Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Why Should A Christian Go to Church?

No attendance at any church is the way to heaven, but it is essential once you are a Christian. If one is truly saved, one should:

1. Wanna Go – The hungry, born-again soul has a desire to be fed from the Word of God as put on the heart of the church’s man of God. It also desires fellowship with like-minded people. “My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God.” Psalm 84:2 “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;” Ephesians 2:19 “That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.” I Corinthians 12:25
2. Wanna Grow – Church is one of the most important places where a Christian can hear God’s word, to find out how he can improve himself, obey God, and learn what God has for him to do. “Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God.” Psalm 92:13
3. Wanna Obey – We are commanded to go. “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Hebrews 10:25
4. Wanna Pray – Although it is not the only place a Christian can pray, it is a good place. “And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.” Matthew 21:13

It makes one wonder when a person who claims to be saved does not want to attend a church and finds excuses for avoiding it. Not regularly attending is contrary to scripture.

This article was posted by Bill Brinkworth in The Bible View newsletter.

SEVEN MARKS OF A GREAT CHURCH

Acts 2:40-47 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

INTRODUCTION: A lot of churches claim to be great churches. I am afraid often times their greatness is only a figment of their own imagination. God gives us His definition or description of a great church in Acts 2.

1. A GOSPEL preaching church. v. 40 - A church where lives are being changed. Not a monument to the saints but an emergency room for sinners. 2 Cor. 4:5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. 2 Tim. 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 1 Cor. 15:1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;
2. A GROWING church. v. 41, 47 - Fulfilling all three parts of the Great Commission (A growing church is always in transition).
3. A GROUNDED church. v. 42, 46a - (At least 10 references in Acts to God’s people continuing faithfully.) a. In doctrine (Doctrine is the glue that holds us together) b. In fellowship (Showed up every time doors were open v. 46a) together v. 44, one accord & singleness of heart v. 46 c. In Bible study (in the church, in the temple, and from house to house v. 46) d. In prayer (mentioned 30 times in Acts).
4. A GLEANING church. v. 43 - a. (FEAR = reverence or awe) Godly worship (To ascribe worth). Respect for God and the things of God should cause us to live a separated, holy lifestyle. b. (PRAISING GOD) They did not take the blessings of God for granted.
5. A GIVING church. v. 44-45 - 1 Cor. 16:1-3 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem.
6. A GOING church v. 46b - Soul winning church. Acts 20:20 vision. (And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,).
7. A GLAD church v. 46c-47, 41 - Someone said the mark of a spiritually strong church is not how long the preacher preaches but how long the people stay after the preaching. Neh. 8:10b for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength. Psalm 32:11 Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.

A sermon outline submitted by Pastor Jim Preston of Lighthouse Baptist Church, Moreno Valley, California

THE WORD OF GOD IS NOT BOUND

II Timothy 2:9 Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.

Paul knew what it was like to be persecuted for righteousness’ sake. From the very beginning and throughout his ministry, he was criticized and assaulted for his message of hope through Jesus Christ. Our text says that he suffered “trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds.” He wrote these words to Timothy from prison where he was awaiting his execution. He was jailed on a number of occasions. He knew what it was like to be bound by chains and prison walls, unable to come and go as he desired. In spite of these hindrances and restrictions, Paul triumphantly declared, “but the word of God is not bound.” The Word of God may be assaulted, criticized, and denied, but it cannot be bound. Just as the Living Word, Jesus Christ, was crucified and then raised from the dead, God’s Word cannot be contained. The Bible is not an ordinary Book; it is the very Word of God. Because of the miraculous power of Scripture, the Bible needs to be distributed in every available place, in every available nation, in every available language. Many people today are being reached, taught, and helped by the circulation of Scripture in countries that are theoretically closed to missionary activity. Tons of Bible literature is being shipped to those who live in spiritual darkness. We personally know of people who are actively serving the Lord who were converted by reading a gospel tract or portion of Scripture when there was no personal worker present to lead them to salvation. The “word of God is not bound.” This underscores the need to give out gospel tracts and share the Word of God to those we have the opportunity to reach. Not only do we need to get God’s Word into the hands of those who need it, we also need to get God’s Word into our hearts and the hearts of those we care for. God’s Word has the power to work in the lives of those who hear it. His Word is not bound. We have known of those who were reared in a Christian family and attended church as a child, who then turned to the world and a life of sin. They no longer attended church and did not read the Bible. But they later testified that the Scriptures they heard as a child began to convict them in their minds and drew them back to a place of repentance. The “word of God is not bound.”

A devotional thought by Pastor Smith of Mt. Zion Baptist Church

THE NEGATIVE AND POSITIVE OF MY CHURCH ATTENDANCE

Heb. 10:23-26 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,

WHAT MY ABSENCE FROM CHURCH DID

1. It caused some people to question the reality of my faith.
2. It made some think that I was a pretender.
3. It made many think that I consider my spiritual welfare and that of others a matter of small concern.
4. It weakened the effect of the church service.
5. It made it harder for the preacher to preach.
6. It discouraged other church members and robbed them of a blessing.
7. It made it harder for me to resist the temptation of the devil.
8. It gave the devil more power and influence over lost people.
9. It encouraged me to become more irregular in church attendance.

WHAT MY PRESENCE AT CHURCH DID

1. It caused people to have confidence in me.
2. It made people realize that I regard my spiritual welfare and that of others, matters of great importance.
3. It had a good effect on the services.
4. It made my friends feel more welcome.
5. It encouraged other church members and helped the pastor in his work.
6. It caused others to come to Christ.
7. It made my life stronger for another week.
8. It removed stumbling blocks from the sinner's path.
9. It pleased God.
10. It caused others to say, "He practiced what he preaches."

These notes were posted by Pastor Mike Walls of Freedom Baptist Church, Smithfield, NC on an email mailing list Saturday, November 15.

The Sovereignty of God in the Affairs of Human Government

Dan. 2:21 And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:

Dan. 4:17, 25, 32 .... the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.

Observations:

1. God is sovereign in the affairs of men.
2. He sets up rulers and removes them.
3. God makes all events of history including all of the decisions of rulers, kings, presidents, parliaments, and all of the actions of human governments including military advancements to serve His will. Eph 1:11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
4. Caesar Augustus was an instrument of God's will when he decreed a taxation should be taken. Compare Luke 2:1 with Micah 5:2.
5. Numerous times in Matthew 2:14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 governmental action directly affected Jesus and in so doing fulfilled prophecy. In each case, the people involved acted freely, doing what they intended to do, yet, in each instance, they did exactly what God had planned for them to do.
6. Herod and Pilate were instruments of God's divine will. Acts 4:27-28 For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.
7. We should put our trust in God and not in the decision-making power of politicians, governmental officials, and supreme courts. God can direct the heart of our leaders. Prov. 21:1 The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.
8. God not only determines who governs, He also rules in the decisions that they make. Prov. 16:33 The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD.
9. Some of the greatest Christians lived under some of the most wicked rulers. a) Paul under Nero - Romans 13 b) Daniel under Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, Darius, and Cyrus c) God can use wicked men to serve His purpose - Jer. 25:9 Behold, I will send and take all the families of the north, saith the LORD, and Nebuchadrezzar the king of Babylon, my servant, and will bring them against this land, and against the inhabitants thereof, and against all these nations round about, and will utterly destroy them, and make them an astonishment, and an hissing, and perpetual desolations.
10. Some of the greatest miracles took place under some of the most wicked regimes. a) Jesus Christ was slain by "religious" men. Matt. 26:3-4 Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas, And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill him. b) Acts 4:27-28 For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.
11. Some of the greatest revivals took place under some of the most wicked rulers; i.e. Jonah in Ninevah.
12. Those in authority need our prayers - 1 Tim. 2:1-4 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

Christians are Commanded to Pray for Our Governmental Leaders

1 Tim. 2:1-3 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;

Romans 13:1-6 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.

Key Government Leaders each Christian should pray for:

1. The President of the USA
2. The nine members of the Supreme Court
3. The two Senators from your home state
4. The Congressional Representative for your home district
5. The state Senators or Representatives for your home district
6. The Governor of your home state
7. The Mayor of your local town
8. The City Council of your local town
9. The County Commisioners of your local county
10. The members of the school board in your local area, whether city or county

How do I pray for these governmental leaders???

1. Pray that they will fear God
2. Pray that they will have faith in God
3. Pray that they will walk with God
4. Pray that they will be a friend to God's people
5. Pray that they will reject ungodly counsel
6. Pray that they will resist wrong pressure
7. Pray that they will do what is right for the country over personal ambition
8. Pray for God to bless their homes and marriages

Pray that the Lord will raise up God-fearing men to hold public office!!!!!

GOD’S WORD IS NOT TO BE ALTERED

Deut. 4:1-2 Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them, that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers giveth you. Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.

Israel was to be governed by the laws of God. His statutes and judgments were not subject to their vote or approval. They were to “hearken” or “listen intently, paying close attention to” what His Word taught. These holy commandments and principles were to be learned and then obeyed. The success of God’s people was dependent on their obedience to His Word. It has never been possible for the people of God to prosper and be blessed when they are leading disobedient lives. However, as long as they would let God’s Word guide them and faithfully follow His commands, no enemy could prevail against them. Therefore, God strictly forbids the altering of His Word. Our text clearly states, “Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it.” There have always been temptations to tamper with the Word. When the serpent came into the Garden of Eden, he was casting doubt on the Word of God. The devil hates the Bible. He despises the authority of the Scripture and fears the power of the Bible. Israel was to resist every tendency to alter the truth of God. This restriction regarding the Word of God has never been rescinded. God’s Word is never to be changed. The Bible is not the words of men, it is the Word of God. It will never be outdated. It will never need to be revised. The modern translations of the past century are direct violations of this clear command of Scripture. It is the height of arrogance for Bible publishers to assume they have the authority to add to or diminish from the Words of God. When the Bible is added to or subtracted from, God’s Holy Word is profaned. God’s Word is to be revered, it is to be feared, and it is to be obeyed. We live in a day when those who should be proclaiming the truth are diluting the truth and claiming that the Bible as it is, is no longer relevant. The Holy Scriptures shall always be the unchanging standard of truth.

A devotional thought by Pastor Smith of Mt. Zion Baptist Church

EIGHT REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD STUDY THE BIBLE

2 Tim. 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

2 Tim. 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

1. You should study the Bible for a biblical foundation on which to grow. 2 Peter 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
2. You should study the Bible for spiritual strength and power for this life as a believer in a world under the curse of sin.
3. You should study the Bible that may grow in Bible knowledge.
4. You should study the Bible that you be a success to the glory of God. Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
5. You should study the Bible in that you give the Holy Spirit the opportunity to motivate you to greater things for the Lord.
6. You should study the Bible that you may know God's perfect will for your life. Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
7. You should study the Bible that you may be an effective soul winner.
8. You should study the Bible so that you may "sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear."

Survival or Revival?

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. ―2 Timothy 1:7

The bad economic times and perilous times we are living in have lead to many shifting into a survival mode. They are dominated by a spirit of fear that they must endure at least some portion of the tribulation period prophesied in the Bible. Many who hold this unscriptural position are advocating storing up food, supplies, guns, and ammo to survive during the reign of the anti-christ. Never in the writings of Paul to do you find him admonishing believers to buy weapons and hunker down in fear. Paul’s message to Christians was not one of gloom and doom and the impending mark of the beast. We don’t look for the anti-christ, but we are exhorted to look “for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13).

Our duty is out in the harvest field of lost souls, reaching as many as we can with the Gospel of Jesus Christ before the trumpet sounds. We’re not to be hiding out in “bunkers.” There is a world going to hell that need the Gospel. It is nothing but selfishness to be so concerned about your own well-being, that you forsake your duty of going after that one lost sheep until you find it (Luke 15:1-10).

The story is told of Colonel Davenport, the Speaker of the Connecticut House of Representatives: “On May 19, 1780, the sky of Hartford darkened ominously and some of the representatives, glancing out the windows, feared the end was at hand. Quelling a clamor for immediate adjournment, Davenport rose and said, ‘The Day of Judgment is either approaching or it is not. If it is not, there is no cause for adjournment. If it is, I choose to be found doing my duty. Therefore, I wish that candles be brought.’”

Christ is coming again! The Bible never specifies a date when Christ will return so we as His children must be ready for Him to come at any time. We must be busy doing the work He has left us, not hiding behind locked doors with full pantries and guns cocked.

It’s a question of “survival” or “revival.” I choose REVIVAL!

Jesus said, “The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves.” ―Luke 10:2-3

A devotional thought by Preacher Al Hughes

Guard The Landmarks

In the early history of the Nation of Israel, God blessed His people by allowing them to possess the Promised Land. The Lord divided the land into territories for each of the twelve tribes. The boundaries of these divine land grants were identified by landmarks. The primitive landmarks were usually a post, a tree, or a pile of stones at the corners of the property. The Biblical landmark was instituted to designate boundaries. The Law was very specific in commanding that these landmarks be left alone!

Deut. 19:14 Thou shalt not remove thy neighbour's landmark, which they of old time have set in thine inheritance, which thou shalt inherit in the land that the LORD thy God giveth thee to possess it.

Deut. 27:17 Cursed be he that removeth his neighbour's landmark. And all the people shall say, Amen.

Prov. 22:28 Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.

Prov. 23:10 Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless:

The Founding Fathers of America firmly believed that the United States should be governed by Scriptural landmarks!

"Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other." -John Adams (2nd President)

"It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians, not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ!" -Patrick Henry (1776)

"The highest glory of the American Revolution was this: It connected in one indissoluble bond the principles of civil government with the principles of Christianity." -John Quincy Adams (6th President)

Landmarks are what make us who we are. To remove them would be to change our identity. Yet, many in our society today are fervent in their cause to remove these moral boundaries.

May God help every Bible Believer to recognize and respond to their duty to guard these Godly landmarks!

1. The Landmark of SCRIPTURE!

• The Founding upon this Landmark. a) Immediately after creating the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Congress voted to purchase and import 20,000 copies of the Bible for the people of this nation. b) In 1782, the United States Congress voted this resolution: "The congress of the United States recommends and approves the Holy Bible for use in all schools." c) "It is impossible to govern the world without God and the Bible..."
  -George Washington (Farewell Speech on September 19, 1796) d) "The Bible is the rock upon which our Republic rests." -Andrew Jackson (June 8, 1845)
• The Fighting against this Landmark. a) On June 25, 1962, the United States Supreme Court effectively removed public prayer from our nation's classrooms. Millions of students were forbidden to do what their predecessors had done since the founding of our nation. b) In 1963, the Supreme Court ruled that devotional Bible reading in public schools was unconstitutional. c) Since the removal of public prayer and devotional Bible reading in schools, SAT scores have plummeted, crime has escalated, and alcohol consumption has increased. d) The most dangerous threat that America faces is not from terrorists across the sea but rather from liberals who dwell inside our country. Terrorists like the ACLU are trying to remove the landmark of Scripture!
• The Future of this Landmark. a) Some will Change It! - Rom. 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. b) Some will Corrupt It! - 2 Cor. 2:17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ. c) Some will Cherish It! - Psalm 119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

2. The Landmark of the SANCTITY of LIFE! America was founded upon the premise of "Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness..." Our forefathers believed in a Sovereign Creator who brought LIFE into existence.

• The Vote of Abortion. - On January 22, 1973, seven black-robed men declared WAR ON THE UNBORN! The infamous Roe v. Wade decision set the stage for the grossest form of child abuse in history. In all the wars fought by the United States, there have been an estimated 1.3 million soldiers killed. However, in Satan's war against the unborn, over 50 million innocent babies have been murdered.
• The Victims of Abortion. a) The Victims are Human! - Jer. 1:5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. b) The Victims are Harmless! - Deut. 1:39 Moreover your little ones, which ye said should be a prey, and your children, which in that day had no knowledge between good and evil, they shall go in thither, and unto them will I give it, and they shall possess it. c) The Victims are Helpless! - Psalm 139:16 Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.
• The Voice of Abortion. God's people need to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves. Our silence equals their suffering!

3. The Landmark of the SACREDNESS of MARRIAGE! Traditional Marriage is the most ancient of all landmarks. The institution of marriage dates back to Genesis Chapter Two. Modern society is guilty of secularizing this sacred institution. The approval and promotion of the sickening sin of Sodomy has been inviting the judgment of God upon our land. Sodomy is the Goliath of Satan's sinful army! God views Sodomy as wicked because it seeks to destroy His most precious institution, the FAMILY! Marriage has always been between a MAN and a WOMAN! It has never been the will of God for men to marry men or for women to marry women. JESUS CHRIST validated this sacred Landmark with these words, "Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?" (Matthew 19:4 - 5) JESUS CHRIST would not approve of same-sex marriages! God's people should also be resolved to stand against it. Christians should never vote for any political candidate who seeks to aid in tearing down this ancient landmark of God. We must protect the landmark of traditional marriage.

• The Wickedness of Sodomy. a) It is Morally Degenerating! Lev. 18:22 Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination. b) It is Mentally Deteriorating! Rom. 1:28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
• The Warning about Sodomy. a) It Corrupts Nature! Rom. 1:27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. b) It Condemns Nations! Lev. 18:25 And the land is defiled: therefore I do visit the iniquity thereof upon it, and the land itself vomiteth out her inhabitants.

WHAT CAN GOD'S PEOPLE DO TO GUARD THE LANDMARKS?

1. We can PRAY CONSTANTLY for our LEADERS!
2. We can PRACTICE CHRISTIANITY in our LIVES!
3. We can PREACH CHRIST to the LOST!

(Sermon notes as posted by Evg. Jeremiah Dixon of Knoxville, TN)

Some Reasons to Read Your Bible

I want to provide you with some reasons to study, and to read God’s Word.

1. The Lord commands it - 1 Tim. 4:15-16 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
2. I want real life - John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
3. I want to know true doctrine - John 8:31-32 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
4. I want to be clean - John 15:3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
5. I want to be fruitful - John 15:4-5 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
6. I want my prayers answered - John 15:7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
7. I want to be prosperous and successful - Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
8. I don't want to backslide - Psalm 37:31 The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.
9. I want my soul fed - Deut. 8:3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.
10. I want to grow - 1 Peter 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
11. I want understanding - Psalm 119:99 I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation.
12. I want to be throughly furnished unto every good work - 2 Tim. 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

By Mrs. Arnold Pent, from pages 173-174 of the book, “Ten P’s in a Pod”