Barnes church of Christ

Jesus was a Hebrew, raised in the Jewish religion, and well versed in the Scriptures. He knew the following: “But flesh with the life thereof, which is the blood thereof, shall ye not eat” (Gen. 9:4). “Moreover ye shall eat no manner of blood, whether it be of fowl or of beast, in any of your dwellings. Whatsoever soul it be that eateth any manner of blood, even that soul shall be cut off from his people” (Lev. 7:26-27). “Only thou shalt not eat the blood thereof; thou shalt pour it upon the ground as water” (Deut. 15:23). Yet, some have taken some words which Jesus spoke to imply, if not explicitly teach, that one is to eat his literal flesh and to drink his literal blood.
What words did Jesus utter that might bring one to conclude that he was teaching “cannibalism?” The context is where Jesus said: “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst” (John 6:35). From here it went on, “For I came down from heaven” (verse 38). This caused the people to question among them: “ Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven?” (verse 42). Finally, after much talk they had another question: “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” (verse 52). It is here that Jesus uttered the words of debate: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day” (verses 53-54). The question is, just to what is the Lord referring?
Is he referring to the Lord’s Supper? There are some who think so. However, two key words should get the reader’s attention, which would remove their thinking from this context being about the Lord’s Supper. What two words, “eternal life!” Jesus said, “Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life.” Does taking the Lord’s Supper, even faithfully for many years mean that one has “eternal life?” No, it does not! Anyone can come to the assembly of worship, take the Lord’s Supper for a lifetime, but never obey the gospel of Christ; or may live a totally unfaithful life outside the assembly of worship. It is easy to see, even though he has faithfully taken the Lord’s Supper for years, he is not prepared to receive eternal life. Obeying faithfully the word of life, of which taking the Lord’s super is a part, produces eternal life. Jesus’ words in verse 53 and in the larger context, do not refer to the Lord’s Supper!
However, there are some who believe and teach that the bread and the fruit of the vine used in the Lord’s Supper do become the literal flesh and blood of Jesus. This teaching is called transubstantiation, which means, the bread and fruit of the vine is changed into the literal body and blood of Christ. Now, if this were true, you can see how someone just might charge you with cannibalism! Well, there are some who so teach! Here is the teaching: “the consecration of the bread and wine there takes place a change of the whole substance of the bread into the substance of the body of Christ our Lord and of the whole substance of the wine into the substance of his blood. This change the holy Catholic Church has fittingly and properly called transubstantiation.” It goes into more detail, “it is transformed into the actual flesh of Christ (though it retains the appearance, odor, and taste of bread); and when he blesses the wine, it is transformed into the actual blood of Christ (though it retains the appearance, odor, and taste of wine).” So, the question of cannibalism is legitimate, if you so teach and believe this!
However, the question remains, just what was Jesus teaching when he uttered the words: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day”? It appears he was referring to his identity as the promised Christ, the Son of God, and his approaching death on the cross; and only those who believed and obeyed his gospel; thus, the figurative eating of his flesh and drinking of his blood.
It is as Peter said: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12)! Jesus came to give what the physical manna old Israel ate in the wilderness could not give, but which he could give: eternal life. Jesus’ use of the words “eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood” in John chapter five is figurative and is a reference to “eating” and “drinking” of the word of life, and it is done by obeying it; thus, ending in eternal life!
Jesus was not teaching cannibalism in John chapter five, nor did he teach it in giving the Lord’s Supper, nor elsewhere in Christianity!

— Frank R. Williams

Local congregations are made up of Christians! Christians are people who have obeyed the gospel of Christ! In simple terms, they are those who have obeyed the gospel of Christ, which means: that one has understood the gospel enough to believe it (Mark 16:16); has believed it enough to change his mind about the life he is living and is determined to walk in the teaching of Christ, he has repented (Acts 17:30); has believed it enough that he has rooted in his heart the courage to devote his life to Christ, so he confesses his loyalty to Christ (Rom. 10:9-10); has believed enough to surrender to the forgiveness of past sins to God through being baptized into Christ and raised to walk in newness of life (Rom. 6:3-4). At this point, we were all just alike! Children of God, Christians! However, it is also shortly after this point that differences begin to appear among us.
Well do I remember shortly after obeying the gospel when an elder asked me to lead a prayer during the Sunday assembly of worship and without one thought, I answered, “No!” It was fear, to be sure, but hardly had that one little negative word gone out of my mouth, when a question entered my mind. “Who am I to say that I will not pray to God?” Right there, without taking another step, I said to myself, “Never again will I say no, when asked to pray.” I also remember the second time I was asked to lead prayer, and even though I had not thought about leading prayer; as it was at Bible camp and my group of young boys had just washed the dishes and I had entered the outside class area totally unprepared to lead prayer as I was running late for class, but without a word, I lead the class in prayer. However, through the years, there have been a few times when I have had to say “no” when asked to lead prayer, but it was because my health was so bad, that I thought my mind was not clear enough to lead the mind of others in prayer. The point here is that growth took place after obeying the gospel. However, this is not the case with everyone who obeys the gospel. Leading prayer is not the only way that spiritual growth is seen, but it is one way.
Another way is to be in Bible class. This also brings back memories of my early spiritual childhood. The congregation I was a member of was having a Vacation Bible School and I was going to help another person, as he taught the young people’s class. Well, after the first class it became very clear, the other young man was not able to hold the class together. So, help was needed and it somehow fell on me, and this somehow is yet unknown to me, but I found myself teaching the class. Another step in spiritual growth was taken! This was not to be the last time something like this happened to me either. At that Bible camp of which I wrote above, I was going to be a helper in one cabin. There were twelve to thirteen boys of about ten to thirteen years old. The director of the camp let it be known after the first two nights, that our cabin was the nosiest and most unclean of all the cabins. So he removed the young man I was to help and put me in charge. No, I was not prepared, had not given it one thought, but I was asked, so I answered “yes.” My Army training helped here, and before the week was up my cabin was the best. I did not go to camp to be a cabin leader, but when asked, I answered “yes!” It was another step in spiritual growth.
So, you are wondering, just what is the point of all this personal writing about? The point is, are you ready for spiritual growth? How do you know if you are ready for spiritual growth, or not? One way to know is how you answer questions! Now don’t get me wrong, the question does not have to be about something big! For some reason, we humans have a tenancy to think about “big” things. Big things are made of up a lot of little things and if the little things are not done, the one big thing will never be done either. Spiritual growth is much the same way, it is one little spiritual step at a time, but spiritual growth is the result. It is our responsibility as Peter wrote: “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 Pet. 3:18).
Are you as a member of the local congregation willing to grow spiritually, by taking one little step at a time? By answering “yes” when asked, “Will you do this or that?” What you are asked to do may not be as “showy” as what someone else is asked to do, but when it is all done, the local congregation will work more smoothly, like a well-oiled machine.

— Frank R. Williams

The New Year 2015 has arrived; it gives us the opportunity to look backward, or to look forward. As one who serves as an elder of this congregation, I prefer to look forward. Yet, the New Year does not stand alone disconnected from the year just past, no, it stands upon it. What we plan to do will have roots that reach back into the years that have gone before; both in our failures and in our successes. Wise people learn both from failures and successes. Therefore, may the Barnes church of Christ be wise!
It is the responsibilities of elders to lead wisely; while staying within the limitations of the teaching of Christ (2 John 9). While it is popular to follow after innovations, to go after “culture,” as some today are teaching that any number of New Testament teachings was just “culture” of the time, therefore, not blinding today; elders are required neither to turn to the right nor to the left. Therefore, before the elders of the Barnes congregation put anything before the congregation, it must pass the test of the New Testament! As Paul wrote: “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him” (Col. 3:17). No faithful child of God would ever think of giving thanks to God for an action not authorized by Christ! Yet, throughout what is called “Christendom,” and at times even within some churches of Christ, it is done year after year! Things are justified by the words, “God led me to do this!” or, “I feel this is what God wants me to do.” Just where is the authority in any such words? Yes, to study and stay within the authority of Christ may mean that things move a little slowly, but better slowly than moving without authority! First question of the year, are we as a local church of Christ ready to face the challenges of 2015?
One new thing, the Barnes congregation will start out the New Year with deacons! As the plans are for three men to be appointed to serve this congregation as deacons on this the first Sunday of the New Year, 2015! This will give the elders much help in getting things done! These men will be responsible for certain areas of work and they will be asking other members to help them in doing the work. We will need a way to learn what each member has the ability to do, so your talents can be used. No matter how small, or how unimportant you may think your talent may be, we would like to know about it. Remember, do what you can do and do it now! It appears that the best way to find out what you are willing to do, is to hand out a sheet of paper with works on it, and have you check what you are willing to do. So, be looking for such a paper in the near future!
We have members who are working quietly; such as Minnie Patterson, who sends out cards to those who are ill and miss worship. Then, Earline Austin who sends out the bulletin, a hard copy, to our shut-ins and others not members of the Barnes congregation but desire to receive it. These are the type of things that need to be done. Of course, the elders are very grateful to all of those who are teaching our young. Week after week you prepare and teach without any fanfare, but please understand, the elders and the parents and grandparents are most grateful for your labor of love. If I may, plans are at this time for Jerry Gore to teach the Wednesday night Bible class, once Rick Sumner completes Proverbs. Jerry will be teaching Daniel.
Then, it must not be overlooked, even though little thought is generally given to it. Those men who serve each Sunday morning and evening that keep our worship both “decently and in order,” we are most thankful. We now have more men serving than in a long time. This is a good area to start in serving and from here, growth can take place. It must not be overlooked the many hours that Mark and Barbara Mills put in, as they keep the building clean, and Mark does any number of other things which no one knows about.
We are starting the New Year with a victory! For more than one year we have talked about, and even put hands on, trying to repair, or redo our baptistery, but each time it was met with failure. Finally, the elders determined it was just beyond the abilities of our men to do themselves; therefore, the work was put into the hands of Van Daggs. He went out and got the right people to do the work and today we have a working baptistery! Thank you Van Daggs! Paul Moisant is continuing to work on the speaker and the power-point sermon systems! The aim is that all problems can be handled from the back, rather than having someone come to the pulpit area when a problem appears. This is an example of what we trust will take place with the deacons, the right person leading, right people helping, and the work is done! However, it will not happen unless each member is willing to use the abilities you have!
Now, just what are the plans for the New Year 2015? Some of our plans are not new, but carry-over plans which have not been completed. Well, let me be honest! The major part of these plans has not even started, though we have tried; we have worked with one architect, who just did not give us what we wanted. Therefore, a second one was sought and found, thanks to Van Daggs. We are now waiting on his plans. He told us that he could give us plans for the restrooms we desire. After talking with him, I do believe we will be happy with his work. He has built a number of church buildings in the area. This will take time, as he is a busy person! Van has talked with him and he will start on the drawings shortly. As to the remodeling of the kitchen area, the elders will look at this area after getting the cost of the first stage. The first stage, the restrooms, can be done without the second stage, the kitchen area. However, it seems that it might be easier to start the work on the second stage, the kitchen, as the first stage is nearly completed as the contractor will be on site. However, money is a big question!
We also desire to build a room (Maybe two, one on each side.) at the back of the auditorium which will reach the top of the present ceiling. This will cut down on the open space; thus, less to heat and cool. One room will be for a sound room and a library. We are hoping to move the present library to the new room. This will free up the present Library room for a class room. This will mean that Jerry Gore will have a class room to teach the teenagers in their own room. Right now, the Oklahoma City School of Biblical Studies uses the same room as does Jerry Gore and the teenagers. This will also make the back of the auditorium look a lot better. The elders are asking for your ideas on this change! John Bellah will be in charge of the Library and the sound system, etc. He will be working with the elders as these plans are worked out.
We are also trying to work out a plan(s) to get our sermons, and even our school classes, so they can be viewed on “you-tube,” etc. John Williams has been recording the power-point sermons. However, it takes hours to prepare them; to change them over. This is an area where my understanding is most lacking.
Well, this gives you a few ideas as we look at the New Year 2015! May each member of the Barnes church of Christ commit themselves to take part, to be active, in every way you have ability! Look around, the Barnes church is growing!

— Frank R. Williams

His mission was to change the world by changing the mind of mankind. He desired to conquer the world with no bloodshed, but his own! How different from all those before him and all those to follow him, who desired to conquer the world. His greatest teaching was done from the side of a mountain, “And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: and he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,” (Matt. 5:1-2).
Throughout history, great men have given what men rightfully call great speeches; here are a few words from one such speech from Winston Churchill given in 1940: “…we shall defend our Island, whatever the cost may be, we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender, and even if, which I do not for a moment believe, this Island or a large part of it were subjugated and starving, then our Empire beyond the seas, armed and guarded by the British Fleet, would carry on the struggle, until, in God’s good time, the New World, with all its power and might, steps forth to the rescue and the liberation of the old.” This speech is considered one of the great speeches of all time, and it roused the spirit of the English people during World War II. But, it was a call to arms; it was a call for bloodshed, necessary bloodshed to be sure.
Now, notice how different the humble words of the Master Teacher are, which he spoke from the side of a mountain: “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth” (Matt. 5:3-5). Did you notice the key words? They are: “poor in spirit” “mourn,” and “meek.” Not words generally associated with conquering the world, but these are the very words that Jesus intended to do just that; he intended to conquer the minds, and to redirect the spirits of the meek. At the same time, he taught that these would be the truly “blessed!” No, he is not teaching “happy,” as “happy” depends on circumstances. If the circumstances are good, you are happy, but if the circumstances bad, you are not happy. But the “blessed” of which Jesus spoke does not depend on circumstances, as one is truly “blessed” in all circumstances; just as James wrote: “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation (trials, frw): for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him” (James 1:12). Yes, the word “blessed” is the same Greek word in both texts and the word happy falls much too short of what Jesus and James are addressing. They are addressing a spiritual relationship with God, even our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. A blessedness which allows us to: “count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations (trial, frw)” (James 1:2). Yes, even in the midst of trials we are blessed!
The key words of Jesus’ teaching, “poor in spirit,” “mourn,” and “meek,” point to the inner qualities of man, and this is what Jesus came to change and through this change, he would change the world. Unlike others, the men who tried to conquer the world and did conquer much of the world by force and bloodshed; such as: Genghis Khan, who was one of the most brutal leaders the world has ever seen, but he was one of the most successful and founded the Mongol Empire, yet, where is it now? Then, there was Napoleon, a prominent military and political leader of France who basically dominated continental Europe through superior military tactics, with bloodshed, but we all remember his Waterloo! Finally, there was Hitler the leader of Germany who committed mass genocide during World War II and who convinced the German people they could conquer the world through shedding of blood. But, we all know the result.
But look, there is Jesus sitting on the side of a mountain talking about: “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake” (Matt. 5:7-11).
Jesus, so unlike others, yet, so like us all! The difference is as he said: “My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence” (John 18:36). His kingdom still stands; he is still changing the world one mind at a time through the gospel of Christ!

— Frank R. Williams

As a historical character Jesus stands alone, even though his life was but thirty-three and a half years. His work was only three and a half years, yet he changed the world! His life was viewed so important to the world, that the way we refer to time was changed, in the year of our Lord 2014; people of every nation and language have an opinion about him; and his teaching has been translated into, if not every language, nearly every language; and men and women around the globe have obeyed his teaching and become his followers.
So, who might one compare Jesus to in history? Just for the sake of it, let us look at Alexander III of Macedon, better known as Alexander the Great, who lived nearly thirty-three years. He is well known throughout the world and considered a military genius. In fact, most of his life is seen as in unprecedented military action. His military campaign through Asia and northeast Africa created one of the largest empires of the ancient world and this before the age of thirty. His empire reached from Greece to Egypt into northwest India. Alexander the Great was undefeated in battle and is even today, considered one of world’s most successful military commanders. It is believed, that his death was at the hand of one who knew him well, like Jesus’ death. But, unlike the kingdom of Christ, the kingdom of Alexander has long been lost; while to the kingdom of Christ is now worldwide. While Alexander was conquering lands and nations, the gospel of Christ was/is changing minds and saving souls. While Alexander was putting people to death, Jesus was giving people eternal life.
Yet, it is most interesting that only eighty-nine chapters were written about Jesus by four writers. Three of the writers cover much of the same material; these being Matthew, Mark, and Luke. John, the fourth writer, tells us that the greater of what Jesus did was not written, while at the same time revealing why what was written was done so: “And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. (John 20:30 –31). John also wrote: “And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written” (John 21:25). Clearly, Jesus did more in the three and a half years than the four writers wrote, yet, as they wrote by inspiration, it is fully sufficient for the purpose.
The purpose being announced by John, “that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing ye might have life through his name.” Notice the word “that,” as it appears three times in these few words. First, “that ye might believe,” second, “that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God,” and third, “that believing ye might have life through his name.” The gospel is sufficient for these three purposes! The gospel accounts, one gospel in four accounts, is sufficient evidence to create a faith that stands upon a solid rock of evidence. Notice: “Now faith is the substance (hupostasis – foundation) of things hoped for, the evidence (elegchos – proof – conviction) of things not seen” (11:1). The “faith” God requires is never a “leap in the dark!” Just as God does not ask us put our faith in his existence as a “leap in the dark:” “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork” (Psa. 19:1). Neither does he do so in the gospel of our salvation.
Therefore, God gave us Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John; to reveal to the world the greatest one who ever lived upon this earth: Jesus; the one who came to change man from the inside, to change the mind, then, to the change the actions on the outside. So Paul wrote: “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 2:5). By this, one mind at a time is changed, one soul at a time is saved and so the world is changed and souls are prepared for heaven. Of all the world’s great leaders, both good and evil, Jesus stands alone, doing what no one else has been able to do!
The real question, why is it that so few of the 7.125 billion people that are living today, fail to embrace the highest standard of daily life, which has the hope of eternal life? When using the word “few” remember this is the word Peter used in referring to those saved by water the days of Noah (I Peter 3:20-21). My friend, only you can answer this question for yourself!

— Frank R. Williams

When the subject is “Jesus of Nazareth” many things may be written and said, but the key word is “savior.” Before his birth “the angel of the Lord” appeared to Joseph and said to him: “fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. (21) And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins” (Matt. 1:20-21). There is his mission on this earth announced! The name “Jesus” in its shortest form means “savior!”
Yet, there is more to be learned about “Jesus of Nazareth!” He is the one born of a virgin. Though folks like to debate the subject, the prophet Isaiah said it: “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel” (Isa. 7:14), and Matthew the apostle of Christ quoted him: “Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, (23) Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us” (Matt. 1:22-23). It should be noted as these two verses are read, that Isaiah used the Hebrew word “almáh” when referring to the “virgin” Mary” and may be translated into the English, damsel, maid, virgin. (Strong); while Matthew used the Greek “Parthenos” and may be translated into the English, maiden; by implication an unmarried daughter, virgin. Whatever the debate may be, whatever may be said about the Hebrew and the Greek words, the next word which must be addressed is the word “sign.” The Hebrew is “oth” and may be translated: as a flag, beacon, monument, omen, prodigy, evidence, mark, and miracle. A virgin is the only woman that will go with the words “evidence,” and “miracle” (This is also true of the other words.) For it is so true that there is no evidence from God in a married woman having a child, nor is there any evidence in an unmarried woman having a child other than the evidence of fornication. Neither of which is the subject of Isaiah! The “virgin” conceiving and bearing a son is the “sign!” It is the proof that is in the name “Immanuel:” God is with us! Take away the “virgin” and there is no proof, there is no “sign,” there is no “Immanuel,” and there is “no God with us!”
When the two words are put together, “Immanuel” and “Jesus,” we have God with us in salvation. God is with us in the person of Jesus to save us! There is no question why John 3:16 is called “the golden text of the Bible,” as it reads: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Or as Paul wrote when writing of God: “who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim. 2:4). Yet, it was not just through the birth of the virgin Mary that salvation came; no, the glad tidings of salvation runs through the sinless life of Jesus, who was tempted in all points as we. As it is written in Hebrews: “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (Heb. 4:15 -16). The sinless one became our High Priest to whom we may go at any moment in time of need and find mercy, as mercy is part of our salvation. So, hear the words of Hebrews once more in view of the above: “Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high” (Heb. 1:3). While on earth, he lived as the “brightness,” and “the express image” of God while being temped in all points as we, yet he without sin; in his death he “purged our sins;” thus, he made our salvation possible through his blood, then, he was seated as our “high priest at the right hand of the Majesty on High,” so we may come to him in time of need and find mercy.
This being part of what is in the word “gospel,” no one is surprised to read some of the last words Jesus said to his apostles as he prepared to depart from this earth: “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Spirit is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Being true to their commission, Paul wrote: “… the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; …” (Col. 1:23).
Yet, there is more to learn about “Jesus,” so we shall continue to write in this series of articles.

— Frank R. Williams

What do you know about Jesus? Would it surprise you to read, that he is the most famous person to have ever lived? Then, how about these thoughts: that more songs have been written about him than any other; that more paintings of him, as mankind portrays him to look, have been made of him than any other historical figure; and that more books have been written about him than anyone who ever lived; finally, even our time is based on his birth as “Before Christ” and “in the year of our Lord” (A.D.).
Most of our information, as it relates to Jesus’ personal life, comes from the Gospel Accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The name Jesus appears 983 times in the King James Version of the Bible, as found in “Word Counts;” however, it does not always refer to Jesus of whom we write. The reason for this is simple. The Greek word translated Jesus is “Iésous,” and it is also translated into our English “Joshua” and at other times, it does not refer to Jesus of whom we write. The Greek word means, “Jehovah is salvation.” At least two times it is translated “Jesus” when it should have been translated “Joshua;” who lead Israel across the Jordan River, such as: Acts 7:45 “Which also our fathers that came after brought in with Jesus into the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drave out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David.” Clearly, Stephen is talking about when “Joshua” brought Israel into land of the Gentiles. Then, second, in Hebrews: “For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day” (Heb. 4:8). Once more, the name “Jesus” should be Joshua, as it was Joshua that had not given Israel “the rest,” as he “spoke of another day” and not Jesus.
Yet, there is more as it relates to the name Jesus and is an interesting part of the study. It is said that Barabbas, the robber whom the Jews desired that Pilate release instead of Jesus was named, “Jesus Barabbas.” This is based on some ancient manuscripts of Matthew 27:16–17 which has the full name of Barabbas as “Jesus Barabbas” and it is said this is the name which was originally written in the text. Early it was said that Origen a “church father,” “was troubled by the fact that his copies of the gospels gave Barabbas’ name as ‘Jesus Barabbas’ and declared that since it was impossible he could have had such a holy name, ‘Jesus’ must have been added to Barabbas’ name by a heretic. It is highly likely that later scribes, copying the passage, removed the name ‘Jesus’ from ‘Jesus Barabbas’ to avoid dishonour to the name of Jesus the Messiah.”
In some translations in the genealogy given by Luke (3:29), where the King James Version has “Jose,” the American Standard Version has Jesus. This is “the son of Eliezer. The New International Version and New American Standard translations have Joshua. The Greek word means: “he will be sustained of Jehovah.” Next, in the New Testament there was one Justus, a Hebrew Christian, an associate of the apostle Paul, who wrote of him: “And Jesus, which is called Justus” (Col. 4:11). Finally, the Roman-Jewish historian Josephus mentions at least twenty different people named Jesus in his works. However, in this series of articles, our subject is “Jesus of Nazareth,” whose mother was Mary.
Matthew wrote: “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit” (Matt. 1:18). Joseph being told by the heavenly messenger: “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins” (Matt.1:21). Therefore, the name given to the son of Mary, the divinely ordained name, and through the name itself, announcement was made of his mission on earth. The name Jesus means: “Jehovah is salvation” or as the text says, “he shall save his people form their sins.”
With this in mind, attention is here called to the words of Peter: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). It is not the name alone, but the person who was so named, as we have seen, there were others names Jesus; but there is but one “Jesus of Nazareth” and in him is salvation!

— Frank R. Williams

It was forty-eight years ago that I first heard of Jude chapter two. It was in a Bible class in the Linda church of Christ in Marysville, CA. The preacher/teacher was Clint Lovelady and someone had asked him where something was in the Bible. He answered, “It is in Jude chapter two.” Being a very young Christian of only a few months, I started looking for Jude, then, chapter two. Of course, I finally found Jude, but not chapter two. This was his way of saying; it is not in the Bible. Through the years I have adopted this fun way of answering such questions.
I have been amazed through the years to see folks who have been Christians for many years, once I have told them something is in Jude chapter two, to see them start thumbing through the New Testament looking for Jude chapter two. You should see their faces when finally they realize what has just happened to them. How many times have you heard, “God moves in mysterious ways and has wonders to perform” or something like it? Do you know where these words appear in the Bible? Yes, they are found in Jude chapter two. Just “Google” the words and see what you find. You will find something, but no book, chapter, and verse.
In fact, I found these words as the heading of a page: “God moves in a mysterious ways his wonders to perform.” Of course, the page never gave book, chapter and verse for the words! Yet, they were put forth as though they were as sure as God himself! How does something become so strongly believed, that it becomes the basic thought of a religion? The implication behind the words appears to be, that God’s plans (whatever is happening at the present time) are beyond human understanding, but God has a reason for everything that happens, however strange they may appear to man. These words also take us beyond the Bible, thus, the events themselves become the authority! But don’t forget, the “mysterious” and “wonders” are beyond the human mind’s ability to comprehend.
Here is a good point to unveil the origin of the words, “God moves in mysterious ways and has wonders to perform.” Well, the words have undergone change through the years as many phrases do. The nearest words to those heard today come from a hymn written by William Cowper in 1774. He wrote: “God moves in mysterious ways / His wonders to perform. / He plants his footsteps in the sea / And rides upon the storm.” Cowper struggled with depression and doubt through the years. The story goes that he decided to commit suicide by drowning himself, so one night he called a cab telling the driver to take him to the Thames River. There is two versions to the story, one is that as they drove toward the Thames a heavy fog came in and the cab driver got lost and could not find the river, while the other says the driver deliberately drove around; at last, whichever the case, Cowper was most surprised to find himself at the steps of his own house when the cab stopped to let him out. Surely God had sent the fog, or at least the cab driver to keep him from killing himself. The conclusion was reached: “Even in our blackest moments, God watches over us!”
It must be asked, what is wrong with this story? First, what do you say to the father and mother whose son or daughter just committed suicide? Where was God? Did God have no plan for him/her? Was God not watching over him/her? Have you not read that God: “… maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matt. 5:45). What arrogance to think that I am better than others, that God has a better plan for me than others, or that God has a special plan for me, but not for you! What book, chapter, and verse, do I give for such? Oh, I forgot, we are not talking about the inspired word of God: “God moves in a mysterious way his wonders to perform” is our authority!
Before concluding, do not get the wrong idea, the Christian has blessings the lost do not have, but they are spiritual not physical. Paul wrote: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ” (Eph. 1:3). Then, when it comes to salvation, God is no respect of person: “Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: (35) But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him” (Acts 10:34-35).
Finally, let these words settle into your mind, as Paul wrote of God: “Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim. 2:4). It is not mysterious, but it is so wonderful!

— Frank R. Williams

The religion of today and for years past is expressed in the title of this article: “Sit still, God will do it for you.” Truth is, God will not do it for you! God loves you and he has done for all of us what we could not do for ourselves; and this is evidenced in the words of the “golden text:” “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Did you notice the two words, “should not?” Many people have so firmly planted in their belief system, once saved, always saved, that they read this verse as though it reads “shall not perish.” I remember a story told by a beloved old preacher who was preaching when a woman who stood up, and read this verse, but she read the words “shall not perish” as she did so. He asked her to read the verse a second time, she did so, but once more read into the verse the same words; so he had her read it a third time and when she read the same words, he stopped her and asked her look at the words. She looked at the word of the text and just set down without another word. Many folks are just like this dear lady, they read into the text what they believe.
The Greek word used in the text is “me” and Strong says it is, “A primary particle of qualified negation. It is not an absolute negation as so many believe. Had the Holy Spirit desired to express an absolute negation, as “shall not,” he would have used the Greek “ou,” which Strong says, “expresses an absolute denial.” The translators got it right, but many readers get it wrong! But, the point being made in this article is that God has done for us what we could not, and here we would use the Greek “ou,” an absolute denial, do for ourselves; we could not and we cannot give that which brings about salvation, as that required the blood of the sinless “only begotten Son of God.” However, this being true, it does not change the truth, God does not do for us what he requires of us.
The Greek language has what is called the “middle voice,” which English does not have. When the Greek middle voice verb form is used, the subject of the verb is seen as acting upon itself or for its own benefit. Here is a case in point, Ananias came to Saul and said: “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 16:22). In the middle voice, it is like Ananias is saying to Saul, “arise, and get yourself baptized.” This would also be for Saul’s own benefit, as getting himself baptized would be unto the remission of his sins (Acts 2:38), or here, “wash away thy sins.” God will not forgive one’s sins without the required action on the part of the person in need of forgiveness. My friends, don’t sit around and wait for God to do it for you, he will not!
God requires that we put off the “old man” and put on the “new man” as Paul wrote: “Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; (10) And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him” (Col. 3:9-10). This is like taking off and an old coat and putting on a new one. It is a requirement and God will not do it for us! Notice some of the sins which Paul identifies with the “old man:” anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication, fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness (verses 5-8). God will not remove these sins from us, as we must stop committing the sins ourselves and for ourselves. Yes, it is true, God will forgive us, he will remove the “wages of sins” from us (Rom. 6:23) once we obey the gospel of Christ! However, he will not stop us from sinning! This we must do it ourselves and for ourselves!
Here is a question, why is so offensive to so many, for someone to write that one must obey in order to have his sins forgiven? When Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane, he prayed, “not my will, but thine, be done.” Now read these words: “though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered” (Heb. 5:8). Are we better than the Son? What if Jesus had just sat and looked at the cross waiting for God to die for him? What about our means of salvation?
Friends, don’t sit and wait for God to do it for you! God is waiting on you; he is eagerly waiting to forgive you when you stop sinning, but he will not stop you from sinning! He will not repent for you! Think of it this way, if God would stop you from sinning, who would continue to sin? No, don’t sit and wait, get up and do it yourself and for yourself!

— Frank R. Williams