In pursuit, a Christian is a follower of Christ. “Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Matt. 16:24). Thus, our ultimate and primary ambition of life is to follow Jesus.
In knowledge, a Christian is a disciple or learner. “And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch” (Acts 11:26). We today, must also learn of the Word.
In character, a Christian is a saint. “Paul…unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints…” (1 Cor. 1:1,2). Those in the church are expected to live a sanctified, a saintly life. This means that a Christian has been set aside from the rest of the world in that we are to be specially used for God. We are to serve Him, live for Him, and do His will.
In relationship of Him whose name we wear, each Christian is a branch in the vine. “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” (John 15:5). As the branch lives off of the vine, we too, must get our spiritual nourishment from Jesus.
In transformation, a Christian is a new creature. “Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: Old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Cor. 5:17). Many miserable and aching lives have been blessed with a new life. Some of which are seen in 1 Corinthians 6:9-11.
In illumination, a Christian is light. “Ye are the light of the world…Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matt. 5:14-16). Thus, as Christians, we are a light. One aspect of a light is to show the way to those who are lost. By the way we live, we can show those around us that there is a reason for the hope that is in us (1 Pet. 3:15).
In combat, a Christian is a soldier. “Thou therefore endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ” (2 Tim. 2:3). Jesus gave us a weapon and a full suit of armor of which He said that we need in our battles with Satan (Eph. 6:11-17). Thus, we are expected to fight.
In alertness, a Christian is a watchman. “But watch thou in all things” (2 Tim. 4:5). We must be watchful for Satan’s encroachment into all facets of our lives. He probably will not advance in the areas in which we are strongest, but will attack where we are weak, and do just as much damage. “Watch therefore” (Matt. 24:42).
Certainly, there are many other ways in which the Bible answers the question: “Who is a Christian?” But truly, a Christian is one who is a follower of Christ, a learner of the Word, a saint, a branch in the vine, a new creature, a light, a soldier and a watchman. Since these are what describe a Christian, let us constantly examine ourselves to see if we fit the description.
Gary Henson

It is impossible to overstate the importance of the Bible class teacher. There are those who can teach and impart certain skills, trades and knowledge. There are those who run large corporations, and those who rule countries. Yet, if a list were somehow composed of all positions of the world being arranged in order of importance, the Bible class teacher would be above them all. Why is this the case? When one is teaching the Bible, he/she is fulfilling the very means by which one may be drawn near to God (Jn. 6:44, 45). It is the Gospel that is the power of God unto salvation (Rom. 1:16), which is only able to act when it is presented (Rom. 10:13-14). Furthermore, it is through the teaching of God’s Word that the Christian may be thoroughly furnished unto all good works (2 Tim. 3:16-17), and then, by acting upon that knowledge his calling and election is made sure (2 Pet. 1:10). Thus, the efforts of the Bible class teacher are supremely important.
Not only can we see the eternal results of the labor of the Bible teacher, we also can see the immediate results. When the parents are overjoyed to hear their child’s first recital of the Bible lesson–we can thank the teacher. When we see our children grow in the admonition of the Lord, when we see our children developing good morals, when we see our members abstaining from doing that which is evil and cleaving to that which is good–we can thank the teacher. When we see men who faithfully preach the Gospel, men who stand up to defend the truth, men who serve as God-fearing elders, deacons and teachers, and women who teach and help the church in any way they can–we can thank the teacher for their vital part in their instruction and influence.
Teachers, your effect can be felt into eternity, and it just might be the case that your efforts will help raise up strong, faithful leaders of the church of the future. Surely, it is impossible to overstate the importance of the Bible class teacher!
Gary Henson

If you are a disciple of Jesus, then certainly you would want to know the meaning of “take up his cross.” Why? Because these words “said Jesus unto his disciples.”
What does it mean, then, to take up your cross? A glimpse of history during the life and times of Jesus will cast some light on this subject. J.W. McGarvey, in his commentary, mentions that the cross was not only a means of criminal execution, but also a symbol of dishonor. Barnes adds that part of their sentence was to carry the cross to the place of execution. In doing such, it was burdensome, disgraceful and trying to the feelings.
Thus, “to carry the cross” is a figurative expression of which denotes that we must endure whatever is burdensome, or trying, or considered as disgraceful in following Jesus. It consists of simply living the Christian life and doing our Christian duty. No matter what others may think, say or do to us, we must bear these things and continue on.
The context of this passage (vs:24-27) bears this out. Jesus said that if anyone will come after Him, he must deny himself. When one falls under the weight of the ridicule of the world, he has not denied himself and, thus, did not bear his cross. The next verse (:25) describes the end result of those who could and those who could not carry the cross or the “shame.” The one who tries to “save his life” (:25), that is, tries to “save face” in the eyes of the world (:26) by dropping the cross and forsake the following of Jesus, shall lose his life (:25), his soul (:26) and his good reward (:27).
God knows that there is and always will be pressure, ridicule, mockery and tribulation placed upon Christians from the people of the world. When we refuse to take part in some unwholesome activity, they ridicule us. When we preach the resurrected Christ, they mock us (Acts 17:32). When we follow Christ, they inflict tribulations upon us (Acts 14:22). This is one reason why Jesus told us to count the cost of following Him (Luke 14:28). The price of that cost is to forsake all (Luke 24:33) which includes, as our text says, denying ourselves and bearing up under these burdens.
If we wish to overcome this pressure, then let us ever keep on our minds that there is a God (Heb. 11:6), that the Bible is written by His inspiration (2 Tim. 3:16), that the Bible teaches that there is a coming judgment (Heb. 9:27), that those who believe, love and obey God will be saved (Gal. 5:6) and those who “take up his cross” shall have his reward (Mat. 16:24-27).

Gary Henson

It is erroneously advanced by some who are pro-instrument that the Greek word for “making melody” in Ephesians 5:19, inherently means to play an instrument. In other words, they say that psallo is defined as, “to touch the chords of a musical instrument.”
Reply. While it is true that many lexicons give psallo such a definition, it is NOT the case that this is the only definition given, NOR is it the case that this was the definition of this word during the time of the writing of the New Testament! Words change meanings throughout the years. One needs only to look at some of our English words to see that such is the case. For example, in the past “prevent” had meant, “to go before; to precede;” however, that word now means “to hinder.” For one to argue that we can use mechanical instruments because that is what psallo meant numerous years before the New Testament was written, is like a driver arguing with a highway patrol officer that he can legally drive 75 mph because that is what the speed limit used to be before it was lowered to 70.
Psallo has carried five different meanings at five different times. One of those meanings is “to touch the chords of the human heart.” One only needs to look at Ephesians 5:19 to see which definition was in use during the time of the writing of the New Testament. God knew what the word for a stringed instrument was (Rev. 5:8) and would have used it if “touching the chords of a musical instrument” was what He meant.
Furthermore, notice the difficulty in which such a position finds itself by affirming that psallo means to play an instrument. Ephesians 5:19 is a command, not an option; and, it is a command to each and every individual. Thus, if psallo means to play an instrument, then each and every individual is commanded to play an instrument while they sing!
It should be observed if psallo means (and thus demands) the use of mechanical instruments when singing “psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,” then: (1) Paul and Silas sinned when they only sung (humneo, not psallo) a hymn without the instrument (Acts 16:25); (2) the apostolic church never obeyed the teaching for they never sung to the accompaniment of a mechanical instrument.
Conclusion. Those who appeal to the “Psallo Argument” appeal to evidence which is not there. In the first century, psallo meant to sing with your heart. Consider the parallel verse of Colossians 3:16 (which does not use psallo) which puts it this way: “singing with grace in your hearts to God.”
Brethren, no matter who may utilize the instrument, may we never be found offering up “strange fire” (Lev. 10:1-2), but do only what God has authorized (Col. 3:16).
Gary Henson

Hebrews 4:12 states quite simply, “The word of God is powerful”–and what a powerful statement that is! To help arrive at a proper comprehension of the power of God’s Word, one should seriously think about what is mentioned in the following: “The worlds were framed by the Word of God” (Heb. 11:3). If one has any doubt of the power that is needed to speak things into existence, he has but only to try it himself. Furthermore, Jesus accomplished great miracles while on earth by merely speaking His Word (Mark 1:41-42; 2:11-12). Yes, there is amazing power in the Word of God.
What then, can that same Word of God do today for you?

God’s Word Has COMFORTING POWER.

1. The Christians in Thessalonica were grieving over those who had passed away. Yet, God, through Paul, explained the matter of death and resurrection, concluding with these assuring words: “Wherefore, comfort one another with these words” (1 Thes. 4:18).
2. Upon one intensely trying moment, Jesus uplifted His disciples, “Let not your hearts be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me” (John 14:1-4).
3. And again in Romans 15:4; “For whatsoever things were written aforetime [OT] were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” Thus, in times of sorrow and uncertainty, God’s Word can comfort your heart–for it is powerful.

God’s Word Has CONVICTING POWER.

1. This is seen the very first time the Gospel was preached. In Acts 2, God was speaking to the people through inspired Peter, and “when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said… what shall we do? (:37). Yes, God’s Word convicted them of their sin, and having done so they were now receptive to salvation.
2. This is also observed when God used Nathan the prophet to speak to and thereby convicting David of his sins (2 Sam. 12:1-7). If His Word had not confronted and convicted David, he evidently never would have repented.
   Although it hurts, we are grateful to God’s Word as it can convict us of sin–for it is powerful.
   God’s Word Has TRANSFORMING POWER.
   1 “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. (Rom. 12:2).
3. God’s transforming power is also seen in 1 Thessalonians !:5-9. [Please read].
   Yes, God’s Word can transform us into a holy and righteous person-for it is powerful.

God’s Word Has SAVING POWER.

1. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” (Rom. 1:16).
   2 “Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your soul.” (Jam. 1:21).
   Yes, God’s Word can even save your soul from hell–for it is powerful.

God’s Word Has GROWING POWER.

1. After one becomes a Christian, the Word of God enables one to grow: “As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.” (1 Pet. 2:2).
2. “But He answered and said, ‘It is written, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”’” (Mat. 4:4).
   Yes, the Word of God enables the Christian to grow–because it is powerful.
   All of these are important: comfort; conviction; transformation; salvation; growth. And the same word which spoke a universe into existence, is the same Word which can do these five things for you–if you but whole-heartedly heed.
   Gary Henson

Since we are to ask God to not lead us into temptation (Mat. 6:13), then it must be the case that God does lead us into temptation (otherwise, Jesus has instructed us to pray a meaningless prayer–which amounts to praying without faith). How then can it be said that God leads us into temptation when James 1:13 clearly states that He does not tempt us?
Vine’s Greek dictionary of NT words reveals that the word, peirasmos [temptation], is used in two ways: it “is used of (1) ‘trials’ with a beneficial purpose and effect,” and “(2) of ‘trial’ definitely designed to lead to wrong doing, ‘temptation’.” It is within the first category he includes Matthew 6:13. Thus, while God does not act in accordance to the second meaning of the word (i.e., trying to lead us into the actual wrong doing [Jam. 1:13; Luke 4:13]), He does allow us to be put into situations in which we are tested and thus, tempted (the first meaning). In harmony with this, notice carefully how peirasmos is used in 1 Peter 1:6-7, “Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, ye have been put to grief in manifold trials [peirasomos], that the proof of your faith, (being) more precious than gold that perishes though it is proved by fire, may be found unto praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” Thus, there is a benefit to one’s trial/temptation [peirasomos] because it is a test of one’s faith and worthiness of eternal reward. In this we see, while God has lead us into a situation in which we will be tested, yea tempted, He has not tried to entice us to do wrong.
Thus, while God does not attempt to persuade us to sin (Jam. 1:13), He does put us in trying circumstances in which we are tested. It is these trying situations of which we are permitted to pray for avoidance [as did Jesus in the garden (Mat. 26:39, “if it be possible let this cup [trying situation of the cross] pass from me”)]. However, it must be understood that not all trying circumstances are avoidable [note Jesus’ prayer: “if it be possible…”]. Furthermore, the very purpose of life itself is to encounter such tests to see whether or not the individual will obey God (Deut. 8:1-3; 1 Pet. 1:6-7). Thus, one cannot expect to “pray away” every difficulty of life. Also, those who are Christians are going to encounter trying situations simply by the virtue of living the godly Christian life (2 Tim. 3:12).
As we live our lives, we shall encounter difficult conditions in which we will be tempted to choose wrong [such as: peer pressure; illness; accidents; domestic problems; financial problems; etc.]. Let us pray to God that we can be spared from such-if it be possible (Mat. 26:39), yea, if it be according to His Will (1 John 5:14). However, since not all are avoidable, when such times come, may we ever keep indelibly upon our minds His precious promises: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as man can bear: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation make also the way of escape, that ye may be able to endure it” (1 Cor. 10:13), and “the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptation” (2 Pet 2:9).
The Christian must also be cognizant of the fact that some of the responsibility of avoiding some of the trying situations is his own. Jesus charged us to “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation” (Mat 26:41). So, coupled with our prayer, we are also to watch. That is, fortified with the knowledge of God’s Word, we know we are to: avoid evil companionship (1 Cor. 15:33); obey the laws of the land (Rom. 13:1-7); clothe ourselves modestly (1 Tim. 2:9); avoid unhealthy life styles (Rom. 12:2); love our spouse (Eph.5:25); rear our children in the Word of God (Eph. 6:4); and on and on are the words whereby we significantly increase our percentage of enjoying a better life (1 Tim. 4:8; Phil 4:19; Mat. 6:33; Mark 10:30) by avoiding roads which lead to trying situations.
May we watch and pray that God, if it can be in accordance to His Will, spare us of difficult times which try us sorely. Yet, if such be not possible, be assured that we are able to overcome as God knows how to deliver us out of temptation with a way of escape.
Gary Henson

Many are they who believe on both sides of this issue. However, both cannot be true; yet one must be true. What saith the Scriptures of God?
(1) “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth the law: for sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). What does this verse say sin is? Sin is the transgression of the law. What is “transgression”? To transgress is “to act in violation of (the law)” (American Heritage Dictionary). Thus, to sin is to act in violation of God’s law. For example, if man “A” told a lie, then he would be committing an act that violated God’s law prohibiting lying (Rev. 21:8). Now the obvious question is, what act did the infant commit that violated God’s law? Did he commit the act of lying? Did he steal? Commit murder? Arson? Just what action did the pre-born or the one-second-old child commit that was an act in violation of God’s law? None. Thus, since “sin is the transgression of the law” and since the newborn has not transgressed God’s law, then the newborn is not guilty of any sin.
(2) “The soul that sinneth it shall die: the son shall not bear the iniquity of the father” (Ezek. 18:20). First, who “shall die”? “The soul that sinneth.” Has the newborn sinned (committed an act that violated God’s law [1 John 3:4])? No. Thus, the newborn is not the one being condemned in this verse. Second, (in the second part of the verse), who committed the iniquity (sin)? The father. Was the son to bear the sin of the father? No. Thus, the child certainly does not inherit sin from his parents.
(3) “And the dust returneth to the earth as it was, and the spirit returneth unto God who gave it” (Eccl. 12:7). From whence does our physical body come? From the earth (Note: the body of our original parent came from the dust of the earth [Gen. 2:7]). From whence does our spirit come? From God. Thus, to make the claim that our soul inherits (and therefore is born with) sin from that which our soul came, is to make the blasphemous claim that we inherited sin from God. However, since God has no sin, and since our soul came from God, then our soul did not inherit sin nor were we born with sin.
(4) “But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven” (Mat. 19:14). To what kingdom was Jesus referring? Heaven. Who did Jesus say are of those who are in the kingdom of heaven? Little children. Is the kingdom of heaven made up of sinners or sinless? Sinless. Thus, Jesus is making clear that little children are sinless.
Gary Henson

One of the wonderful aspects of humanity that occurs year-round without end is that of giving. People give of their finances, time and attention to others in their birthdays, weddings, graduations, births, illnesses, charities and at Christmas. Giving is one of the attributes which distinguishes humans from animals–they basically take; people give.
In the language in which the NT was written, there are seventeen different words used to describe giving–a giving which God has done, and a giving which man is to do. Consider the giving of God, and the giving of man:

THE GIVING OF GOD:
I will give you rest (Mat 11:28).
My peace I give unto you (John 14:27).
To give light to them that sit in darkness (Luke 1:79).
To give knowledge of salvation (Luke 1:77).
The Son of man came…to give his life a ransom for many (Mat 20:28).
To give…forgiveness of sins (Acts 5:31).
I give unto them eternal life (John 10:28).

THE GIVING OF MAN:
Give to him that needeth (Eph 4:28).
Give to the poor (Mat 19:21).
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver (2 Cor 9:7).
Giving thanks always for all things unto God (Eph 5:20).

As we consider that which God has given us, we are truly in debt and no amount of giving on our part could ever begin to “pay back” that which we have received. Nevertheless, as “freely [as] ye have received, [we are to] freely give” (Mat 10:8 ), while we “…remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
Gary Henson