Barnes church of Christ

How would you answer the title of this article: “Why people reject the word of God?” Your writer does not claim to have more knowledge than others in trying to give answers, maybe not but a few efforts will be made to answer but one or two will bring a little insight! To claim to know all the answers would mean to the readers that I have totally nullified any of the answers I might give.
Let us start off by asking the readers to stop and see how “you” would answer the question. Your answers might be better than that of this writer. So, really stop and think about how “you” would answer!
First, some would answer, “I don’t believe that God exists!” Therefore, the Bible is nothing more than a man-written book. This reveals a lot in common sense with our question, as it relates to with the subject. If one does not believe that God exists; therefore, the Bible cannot be the word of God, as “I” do not believe that God exists! To this person one must back up and prove that God does exist! Only then would such a person give anytime to the question: “Why do people reject the word of God?” Of course, honesty is required in handling our subject. If the person that we are talking with is dishonest, this person would have to be shown their dishonesty! Many people do not like to come “face-to-face” with their own weakness of character. On the other hand, if we are talking with an honest person, there are many proofs that reveal that God does exist! No effort will be given here, as that is not our subject.
Second, if the person we are talking with, does believe that God exists, then, your efforts would be to show such a person what God requires of the person who does believe that God exists. How about this, start with the fact that God loves him/her? There are few people who have not heard these words: “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). It is hard to reject someone who loves them but some people do. It is hard to reject someone who really loves, as does God the Father! In God’s plan, he had the “Word” -God- becoming flesh and blood. John also reveals this great truth to us: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). God in his perfection, laid out his plan in “time,” that is “time” is something we humans need, so God waited as the years passed; nevertheless, as Paul wrote: “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law” (Gal. 4:4). “The fulness of the time” is time as it relates to man, not God, as God is eternal, as in “present,” having no behind time nor future time, as he is! This is a most interesting subject, but it is not for now. So, “when the fulness of the time was come,” in the years of humanity; from the garden of Eden when man first sinned, God announced: “And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel” (Gen. 3:15). Therefore, man waited as “time” passed year by year and finally, “the fulness of the time” came and God sent forth his “only begotten Son,” to redeem man, as John wrote: “the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.” Allow me to digress just here; the pronoun “us” in John’s statement is not us today but “us” as in the time of John! It refers to the time of John, and his fellows, when Jesus walked upon the earth. Thus, “when the fulness of the time was come” refers to the time when “the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us,” and the “us” were those who were living at that time! It is my opinion, that a person who is lost, first must start his/her “love” of God before starting his obedience! Little good would come from teaching a person that he is lost and that he must believe that God is, if he first does not love God! Therefore, first teach the lost that God loves him/her! Then, when he/she loves God, for God loves them, then, teach them what is required.
We have not gotten far in addressing our subject, but we have covered an area of study that is so often over-looked. Why should I believe in “God” who does not love me and who I do not love?
Therefore, we must teach the lost that God does love them! Teach the lost, that he/she must love God! Then, the words of Hebrews will mean something: “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Heb. 11:6). Do you see why people reject the word of God? First, show them that God loves them!

Frank R. Williams

Covid-19, “the China virus,” has been the disease that has moved the world in directions no one desired to go; it is to the point that we hear the daily count of those who have this disease and the number who have died each day from it; thus, we have no desire to leave our houses and get out in the public. This is true “world” wide and individually at the same time.
It has “hit” our own lives. It used to be those who wore mask robbed banks, the ‘bad guys were behind the mask, but this is not true now! We all have masks on when going out! The mask has us questioning ourselves, are we going to “catch” the “deadly” virus and there is “fear” in our eyes, all of us? We older folks have a greater “fear” simply because we are older; then, we older people may have body elements which put us at higher risk yet; thus, we have a greater reason for staying home. With this staying home, we are forced to stay away for our fellows. This has its own social “illnesses!” that hits many of us!
We must not over-look our children! Our child needs the “social” activities that can only come with others their own age. As a “personal” opinion, children need other children, children need to interact with those their own age; they need to play games with those their own age; and they need to talk with those their own age; thus, children need children as they grow up and “tackle” problems that come from being with others their own age. This is another reason for the family! Paul wrote: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” (Eph. 6:1- 4). God did not forget the family and the responsibilities of “children” nor “fathers!” While writing on this subject, allow me to put in a few words about the family! There is a “war” going on against the family as designed by God: father, mother, and offspring! Please note this: the number of live births to unmarried women hit 1,503,361.” And let us go on; “Fewer than half (46%) of America’s. kids younger than 18 years of age are living in a home with two married heterosexual parents in their first marriage. “This is a marked change from 1960s, when 73% of children fit this description, …”
Yes, we may have gone in “circles” but the “Covid-19” has truly hit us hard! Nationally, there has been 3,106,932 cases. Then, there has been 132,855 deaths. These numbers are too great for “me” to get my mind around! Nevertheless, let us get closer home; in the state of Oklahoma, there have been 19,092 confirmed cases and 416 deaths. These are not just numbers but grandfathers and grandmothers, and fathers and mothers. Sometimes it is hard to look at the world we live in! Yes, we are all wearing our mask and we are not bank robbers, but many are denied their lives!
Yet, Christians have much to count when looking at our blessings! Look around you, you can see blessings! Just this morning (July 10th) the sun came “up” and not much later we got a rain that will nourish the earth, cause things to grow, this also means that we will have to continue to mow our yards but we like the green grass and the flowers that are blooming “Count your blessings!” The sun and the rain tells us that we will have more food growing in the sunshine and with the rain.
Of course, our “spiritual blessings” mean more to us, who are Christians! By “spiritual blessings” I refer to these things that are “spiritual.” There is our salvation at the top of the list; this is followed by the fact that God is our father and at his righthand is our high-priest, the Lord Jesus Christ, and here I love to recall the words of the apostle Paul: “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. Just knowing this allows us to smile when others have no just such reasons!” (Heb. 4:15).
Covid-19 or not, our God does not change, our Lord does not change, our salvation need not change, this depending on our faithfulness, our high priest does not change, but we should be changing daily as we grow “nearer to the heart of God!”

Frank R. Williams

Our nation is and has been the greatest that has ever been! The “founding fathers” were unequaled in the world. The “Declaration of Independence” is unlike any other document in all of history; that is other than the inspired book, the Bible, which was written by men who were guided by the Holy Spirit!
The statement within this document is as follows: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” This statement acknowledges the “Creator” this is the God of the Bible. It reaches back to the opening statement of the Bible: “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth” (Gen. 1:1), coupled with this verse, also in the first chapter of the Bible: “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: ..” (verse 26). The “Declaration of Independence” acknowledged the opening words of the Bible! No “document” that does not acknowledge God, is a most inferior “document!” Thus, the greatnesss of the “Declaration of Independence!”
The “unalienable Rights” of this great document were attributed to “their Creator” – the God of the Bible! Any document that does not acknowledge the God of the Bible is less, it is inferior, and does not come close to reaching the greatness of the “Declaration of Independence!” I believe that it stands first under the inspirited Bible of all other writings of man! It was followed with the “U.S. Constitution.” The Preamble reads as follows: “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and the secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.” Has there ever been such a document that has words in it? No! Notice the words, “to form a more perfect Union.” The Constitution was not about the writers, it was about the people of this United States of America!
Why would people desire to establish another document, as any other document would be less, in behalf of the people who live under it? Second, notice these words which are found in the greatest document ever written by men: “promote the general welfare of the people.” What other document written by men, is there that calls for promoting the general welfare of people? Oh, have we failed, have we “the people” fallen short of these words, Yes, we have! However, the only way for man to improve themselves, is to turn to the New Testament, “the teaching of Christ!” The verse that expresses the heart of “the teaching of Christ is: “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: …” (Matt. 7:12). As it relates to people, as with one another, there is no greater statement than these words of Jesus! So, if “we the people” are ever to be a great nation, greater than we have been, we must follow the words of Jesus! Friends; there is just no other way! However, do not hold your breath!
As one citizen of “These United States of America,” I wish nothing better, than, to have America, not as a law, but from the heart of “We the people” turn to the New Testament as our guide to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness! Back in “the day,” before World War II, more Americans believed the Bible, through most never truly followed it; nevertheless, living closer to the principles of the Bible made us a better people! It is my personal opinion, that following World War II, that our nation has more and more moved away from “the teaching of Christ!” As you read this, give some thought to this idea.
Therefore, as one lonely man, who has seen seventy-nine years of the America, following the “Second great War,” the role of men and women have changed; thus, the family has changed and not for the better. Here are two verses that have long ago been discarded from America: “Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for her” (Eph. 5:24-25).

Frank R. Williams

Due to what has been taking place in “Our Nation,” it seemed right to address the subject. Let me say first, the best citizens of our nation should be Christians! The best fathers in this nation should be Christians; the best mothers of this nation should be Christians; and the best children of this nation should be Christians! Let us do a brief study of the “Our Nation!”
Our nation is founded upon the “Constitution of these United States of America” and the “Bill of Rights” These “founders” wrote far beyond their time, as things were not as they wrote! Here let us notice that Thomas Jefferson wrote the first draft of “The Declaration of Independence” but John Adams and Benjamin Franklin took Jefferson’s draft and edited it and incorporated what became the “The Declaration of Independence.” Their wisdom and knowledge reached for beyond their years!
Who has not thrilled as they read these words:
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.–That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.”
The words “their Creator” refers to God, the God of the Bible! There are no greater words found in any document written by mankind! The wisdom that is demonstrated in this document shows that those who wrote the document were men of the Bible. No, I am not saying these men lived, or even believed in the Bible, or laid claim of being Christians, but that the Bible was in truth the word of God. What I am saying is that these men used the Bible as their guide in writing “The Declaration of Independence!” They attributed more than their own wisdom, as they wrote about the rights of men, that they came from God and not man! Notice once more their words: “that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights;” Looking now at the words “their Creator.” What does the word “unalienable” mean?
Let us call attention to this word, unalienable.” It is not a word that is used every day. It is better understood by the word “inalienable.” First it means “ absolute” and infrangible, inviolable, and not capable of being violated or infringed.” But as we look at the word “inalienable,” maybe this will help our understanding: “Something that is yours forever, that can’t be taken away and given to your little brother instead? That something would be called “inalienable,” as the word refers to a natural right that cannot be revoked by an outside force.” Something that is a “natural right that cannot be revoked by an outside force” can only come from God!
Our nation was founded upon the idea that God was the real source of the power of our “natural right(s)” and not man! From time to time some elected person may give “lip service” to the idea but it is just that “lip service;” but we have those today who have this mind set.
Let us, as Christians, be the best citizens of the United States of America!

— Frank R. Williams

If civilization stands or falls based upon the family, and it does, then, the father is the foundation of the family; it is correct to say, that civilization stands or falls based upon fathers! The definition of the word “father” is: “(1) a male parent; (2) a man who has begotten a child” (Merriam-Webster). On the-other-hand, the Greek word translated “father” is “pater” and means: “generator or male ancestor.” (Thayer). Maybe, it is best for us today, to look at a dictionary. A little deeper into the word: “Father” comes from the Proto-Indo-European “pater” and Old English ‘fæder,’ meaning “he who begets a child,” reflecting the baby-talk sound “pa” as well as a phonetic shift from ‘p’ to ‘f’ in Middle English.” Then, “a man who has begotten a child.” But even this does not give us what we need in understanding what a “real” father is! Paul, the apostle of Christ, wrote these most awesome words: “And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4). These words should put “fear” in the heart of every man who is to be a father! Here we have the responsibility of one who is a “father!” However, so many “men” who become a physical “father” has no thought to be a real “father” of the child he “begets!” This maybe said to be the first real problem we have with “fathers” today!
A little information! The word “father” appears 627 times in the Old Testament and 352 times in the New Testament (King James Version). The first time God identifies himself as “father” is in Exodus 4:22-23, where the word “father” does not appear but is implied: 1) Ex. 4:22-23: “And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD, Israel is my son, even my firstborn: And I say unto thee, Let my son go, that he may serve me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn.” Here God presents himself as “father” to Israel. This happened after God called Moses and commissions him to deliver the Israelite people out of “bondage.” To the best of my abilities, there are only ten verses in all the Old Testament where God refers to himself as “father.”
It is important to note, that “Abba Father,” which you might think appears often, only appears two times in the Old Testament (Deut. 32:6 and Isa. 64:8) and three times in the New Testament (Mark 14:36, by Jesus; Rom. 8:15 and Gal. 4:6, by Paul). The dictionary says: “Abba” is the defining term for father in the Aramaic language” (Dictionary.com). Reading the verses: “And He [Jesus] said, ‘Abba Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.’” (Mark 14:36); “For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’” (Rom. 8:15); and “And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, ‘Abba Father!’” (Gal. 4:6). Now, with this information, let us continue our study.
More to the present point in time! Not only has the family been under attack but “fathers” perhaps even more so. Being a good “father” is not an easy thing to do! If a man did not have a “good” father, it is hard for him to be a “good,” in that he missed that “good” example. Thus, being a “good” father is something that he must learn. He may pick up “good” qualities from watching those fathers that he believes are “good” examples. This means, a little here and a little there; but much is missed! A “good” father starts first with, loving his wife, who is to be the mother of his child(ren). Many children today, have a “father” who only had sex with his mother; thus, no love for the mother of his child. Every year about one million more children are born into fatherless families. May this number reach into the deepest part of our hearts!
Let me say, the “best” of fathers, miss the mark so often! We do our “best” but our “best” somehow just does not get it done! Much of this is due to the “mind” or the “tone” that each child has, as the child is influenced by so many people other than his/her “father.” This we can safely say: The best father may lose his child(ren) in the end! Just give the child the best example you can give and then realize, the final judgement rests on the child.
Finally, keep the world outside the “door” of your family! Every effort that the world can make is being made to destroy “fatherhood!” As “fatherhood” is the foundation of a civilized nation! Kill the importance of the “father,” and you have weakened the home, and thus, a nation!

Frank R. Williams

Just think of it, “The Bible,” the greatest book, if it may be called a book, as it is in truth, “The Word of God!” Just to say it is a book, may put it in the same class of all the other “books” that have been printed around the globe we live on! It is not! As Peter put it as he addressed that, if we are a child of God, then we have been “born again” and he continued: “not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever” (1 Pet. 1:2.3). The Greek word translated “not,” is as Strong put it: “the absolutely negative.” There is no other writing like it and there is “absolutely” nothing about it that is “corruptible!” Men may, and have through the years attacked it, they have burnt it, but it still stands! It still does what it did in the first century; it is able to give life; it is able to see us through death and take us to the resurrection at the return of Christ and deliver us into eternal life with God the Father in heaven!
So, take another look at that Bible on the “coffee table” (I put the words “coffee table” in quotes, as I am not sure those words are still used!), but wherever your Bible maybe, pick it up and read it. In your hand is a “book” that is the “word of life!” Not just here and now, but eternal life that awaits those who have been “born (the Greek word “anagennao” “beget) again.” We have all been “begat” by an earthly father but this ends in death, while those who have been “begat” by the “incorruptible word (seed) of God,” have the promise of everlasting life in heaven; if life on this earth is lived in faithfulness to God. One more thought just here, “faithfulness” to the word of God is so often over looked and people think, if they just give “lip” services to whatever they think is “right,” it is the same as being faithful to the living word of God. Friends, it is not! Only the “incorruptible” word gives real life! Soul be careful what you hear and what you read!
Now, let us go back and read the text again: “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you” (1 Pet. 1:23-25). This is what we call “the Bible,” and it is what we have been writing about through sixteen articles! Did you notice these words: “this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you?” So, what is my point? Peter says, by the Holy Spirit, “this is the word,” but what “word?” The “word of the Lord” which “endureth for ever;” and then he wrote: “which by the gospel is preached unto you.” Have you ever heard someone ask: “What is the gospel?” Sure, you have! Well, what did Peter say, he said, when referring back to the words he had just wrote: “the word of the Lord which by the gospel is preached unto you.” Is it possible to preach “the gospel” and not preach “the word of the Lord?” Did you put your “thinking cap” on?
We sometimes say, that is remarkable, this is amazing, but “the word of the Lord” is none of these; it is the inspired living word of God! No! By the use of the word “living,” does not mean what some have used when referring to “The Constitution of these United States!’” These folks mean, that it is every changing and never means the same thing to the next generation; but neither is this true of the “Constitution” nor the “Word of God! It is impossible to say, that the gospel is the “incorruptible word (seed) of God,” then, claim that it is ever changing! When something “changes,” it is no longer what it was before the changes were made!
Before ending this long series of articles, I would like to conclude with the words Paul wrote to Timothy: “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” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Not one word more, not one word less; but “all scripture is given by inspiration of God!” The word “inspiration of God” comes from one compound word, “theopneustos,” which means: “divinely breathed in” (Strong). This is true of no other “book,” of no other words!
Friends, when you hold the Bible in your hand, you are holding the treasure of life! So, what will you do with it?

Frank R. Williams

Put your eyes on the New Testament Library and look at the shelves and the books that are found there. Keeping in mind, that there are twenty-seven books, found on the six shelves (If I have not used this number of shelves, in the other articles in this series, please forgive this humble writer!). Just for a review, the first shelf has the four gospel accounts written by Mathew, Mark, Luke, and John; the second shelf has but one book, “Acts of the Apostles,” which was written by Luke; the third shelf is that which has the letters to the churches and there are nine books located on this shelf; the fourth shelf holds the letters to preachers and there are but three such books: 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus. We have now arrived at the books, that I call the “General Letters” and as we count them, we notice that there are nine books located on this shelf. These are the most diverse books; starting with Philemon with the last being Jude; on either end, if you will notice, both of these are one “chapter” letters but Hebrews has thirteen chapters. The final shelf, the sixth shelf, has but one book on it. It is like no other book in the New Testament. It is: “The Revelation of Jesus Christ.” Now, I would be amiss, if I did not notice these words: “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand” (Rev. 1:3). With this review, we now move on.
This article will cover the “Letters to the Churches.” So, what should we notice while doing our little study of these books? The first point that needs our attention are Paul’s words to the Corinthians: “If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord” (1 Cor. 14:37). Many people miss this clear and pointed text! Paul was not just writing things that had no “authority” but what he wrote, things which the Holy Spirit delivered to him, were in fact, “the commandments of the Lord!” He was not writing his “opinions!” He was not writing things that were to be taken as “options!” Once more notice his words: “let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.” The word “commandments” is the Greek “entole” and has the following meanings: “1) an order, command, charge, precept, injunction 1a) that which is prescribed to one by reason of his office 2) a commandment 2a) a prescribed rule in accordance with which a thing is done” (Thayer). Strong gives: “injunction, that is, an authoritative prescription: – commandment, precept.” If there was any question as to what Paul meant, Thayer and Strong should have removed any such!
The first thing we learn is in the first chapter of Romans: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” (Rom. 1:16). God has but one “power” unto salvation! In the Second Letter to the Thessalonians, verses four and six, Paul used the Greek word “paraggello,” which is translated “command” but is not the same Greek word used in the Corinthians verse. Here Paul wrote: “… that ye both do and will do the things which we command you” and “Now we command you, …” The Greek word used in these two verses means: “1) to transmit a message along from one to another, to declare, announce 2) to command, order, charge” (Thayer). Once more we must notice, that Paul is not writing his “opinions” but “commands!” The same authority which Paul is using in all of his writings is as one of the “ambassador of Christ (2 Cor 5:30). Now, with this thought in mind, notice what Paul wrote to the church in Colosse: “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth” (Col. 3: 2). Is this a “suggestion” (a proposal) or a “command?” Is it something that must be done, as in obeyed, if one is to be pleasing to God? Notice, just where we are, if we obey the words in verse two; as Paul wrote that, “For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God” (Col. 3:3). First, Paul says, “For” the Greek “gar,” “A primary particle; properly assigning a reason”- Strong) ye are (presently) dead (separated).” Separated from what? Friends, separated from the “world,” from “sin!” Now look at Paul’s next words: “and your life is hid.” The word “hid” is the Greek, “krupto” and is “A primary verb; to conceal (properly by covering).” (Strong). Finally, notice this: “with Christ in God.”
Friends, may God never see us outside of Christ! Outside of the blood of Christ! Salvation is in Christ!

Frank R. Williams

No writing is equal to the Bible! Why is this true? Simply because the Bible is the inspirited word, each word, has been “breathed out” by the Holy Spirit! Peter put it this way: “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” (2 Pet. 1:21).
Let us here notice two words: “moved.” Strong says: “to move by bearing; move or, to be conveyed or borne, with the suggestion of force or speed.” The “suggestion of force or speed” implies urgency.” But also notice that Strong used the word “borne.” This is most interesting! The word “borne:” “which is a “past participle of bear” and when used as an “adjective,” it means: “carried or transported by the thing.” So, what is “the thing” that transported the words of the Bible? It was the Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit was not slow in delivering the word of God! Now, let us add a second passage; “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16). The word used that needs our attention is the Greek, “theopneustos” and means: “inspired by God.” No, there is no contradiction between what Peter wrote and what Paul wrote. The Holy Spirit was used by Peter and Paul’s use of the word “God,” as the Holy Spirit is God. No, the Holy Spirit is not “God the Father,” nor is he “God the Son.” But he is God the Holy Spirit! It was the third member of the Godhead that delivered the words of the Bible!
With these truths in mind, let us move on with our subject, “The Bible.” It is the purpose of the four gospel accounts, as delivered by the Holy Spirit, to create faith, belief in us, that Jesus of Nazareth is the Son of God. Stop right here! The words of Jesus are needed just here. He said: “Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world.” Now why are these truths so important? Jesus continued: “I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins” (John 8:23-24). It is imperative, soul saving, that we believe that the Son of God was from “above,” and not of this world as you and I are! The “he” of the text is the one promised throughout the Old Testament and the “he” who came to this earth: the Son of God! Here recalling the words of John: “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). It is very important, in answering why four accounts of the life of Jesus. Matthew wrote to the Jewish reader; Mark wrote to the Roman, while Luke wrote with the Greek in mind; and John wrote with all folks in mind.
With the above firmly in mind, let us return to the fifth book of the New Testament, “Acts of the Apostles.” The book of Acts is the book that answers the most important question that has ever come forth from the mouth of man! The question is: “What must I do in order to be saved?” There are many great things in this world, but not one of them, in and of itself, give mankind the answer to the greatest question: “What must I do in order to be saved?” You may sit on the highest mountain top and view some of the wonders of God in what he created, but you will not get the answer to the greatest question! This is here pointed out, as some report after returning from the mountain top, “I felt so close to God!” No mountain on earth, or elsewhere, as nation is now pointing to the moon and Mars! But, should a human stand on Mars, he will not be any closer to God, than sitting in his recliner! Being “close” to God only comes from being in fellowship with God. Here John: “Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son” Did you get it? “Fellowship” with God and the Son of God, only can be found, realized as truth: “the doctrine of Christ!!”
This is what the Acts of the Apostles reveals! The answer that is received, depends on where a person is, as he moves toward being saved. Let us take the case of those in Samaria: “Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them” (Acts 8:5). The gospel of Christ must come first, as it produces faith. But what next? Let Philip continue: “And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did” (verse 6). It was Philip’s purpose that the people of Samaria be saved. What did these folks do? Luke wrote: “But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women” (verse 12). Oh! The people of Samara, upon hearing the gospel did that most hated act! Yes, once they “believed,” they were “baptized unto salvation!”
Nothing had changed from Pentecost, when the people were told: “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:28). One more case, even as Saul prayed, he was told to: “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16). In this case, Saul was “calling on the name of the Lord” as he was baptized, as his sins were washed away!

–Frank R. Williams

“Why are there four accounts of the same events?” This is a good question and needs an answer. I will simply let the apostle John answer the question. He wrote “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 20:31-31). What John wrote, while being guided by the Holy Spirit, is also true of all four accounts.
“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him“ (Hebrews 11:6). Now we have both the reason and the answer for the four accounts of the life, death, burial, resurrection and the ascension of Jesus, the Son of God. Therefore, let us say it this way, the four accounts are to build faith, as it would be totally outside the realm of logic for God to require something, then, fail to give us the means to have it! Thus, God has given us the means to arise from the state of unbelief, and through study of the four gospel accounts, we have faith that Jesus is the Son of God. Upon this, newly build within us, and we obey the gospel. How important is “obeying the gospel? Paul one of the thirteen “ambassadors for Christ” (2 Cor. 5:20), wrote: “obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: “Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power” (2 Thess. 1:8-9). Yet, there are so many who refuse to take heed to Paul’s words. Now, we have looked at the requirement of “faith,” the means of building “faith,” and what is going to happen to all of those who do not “obey the gospel.” Therefore, the four accounts of the one Jesus, who is the Son of God. Therefore, as we look at the first four books on the first shelf, on the New Testament side of our library, we have four books, that are designed by God, to build “faith” the hearts/mind of all humanity! But we must keep in mind, that it is never “faith only,” but “only by faith!” As “faith” is the requirement that opens the door of salvation, but it is never the end but the beginning!
Now, let us move to the second shelf of our library. On it there is but one book! We may search the world over, reading this book and that book, but it is “The Acts of Apostles of Christ,” that reveals the answer to the greatest question upon the lips of man. What is the question? We shall allow the apostle Peter to answer our question. As Luke recorded the events of that great Pentecost day! When some of those standing before the apostles, asked, once “faith” was built within their hearts/minds, the great question: “Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37). Have you ever asked this question; if not, why not? Are you still standing, having heard/read the gospel accounts, which the loving God has given us, that we can build the required faith: “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Heb 11:6), the “faith” within our hearts/minds but are you still rejecting the whole subject? Have you for whatever “reason” you have but you still stand having only taken the first step? Oh, ye of “little’ faith!
As we look at the fifth book of the New Testament, we have not yet answered the question of “faith,” that comes from the New Testament: “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37). These souls now understood that they were lost! They were seeking salvation for their soul/spirit! The apostles of Christ, who were given the greatest charge ever given to any group of men. Jesus said unto them: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:14). Mark recorded their actions in one statement at the end of his book but it would be Luke , who not only wrote the “Gospel according to Luke” but “The Acts of the Apostles, would write the more complete record! When those on the day of Pentecost ask that all important question; “what shall we do,,” the apostles answered in these words: “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for (Greek word is “ice” and means: “into, unto, to, towards” – Thayer) the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” Acts 238).
The “world” heeds these words, but on that day Luke wrote this: “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls” (Acts 2:41). Oh, for men/women with honest hearts today! Do you have such a heart?

Frank R. Williams

One of the sweetest words, in any language, is “mother.” Then, how sweet is the word “mommy” when said to the mother for the first time? Have you ever thought about the influence Mary had on Jesus? On-the-other hand, what about the influence Jesus had on Mary. The following number speaks volumes, the number is 141 million, this is how many Mother’s Day cards were sent out last year. As impressive as that number is, this is even more staggering, the number, 82.5 million, and this how many mothers there are in the U.S.A.
Here are a few sayings about mother:
1. “Always my mother; forever my friend.”
2. “Motherhood is the greatest thing and the hardest thing.” – Ricki Lake.
3. “A mother’s love endures through all.” – Washington Irving.
4. “If I know what love is, it’s because of you.”
5. “The natural state of motherhood is unselfishness.” – Jessica Lange.

Then, there are these:
1. “A mother is your first friend, your best friend, your forever friend.” – Unknown
2. “Mother is a verb. It’s something you do. Not just who you are.” – Dorothy Canfield Fisher
3. “Moms are the people who know us the best and love us the most.” – Unknown
4. “A mother’s love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible” – Marion C. Garretty.
5. “Mother’s love is peace. It need not be acquired, it need not be deserved.” – Erich Fromm
6. “For a mother is the only person on earth who can divide her love among 10 children and each child still have all her love.” – Unknown
How is that for a start on the subject, “Mother?” I think each one has something to give to the subject; if we will take the time to do so. Once a year this nation honors “mother” but those who love their “mother,” honors her every day! Here are the greatest words ever said about mother: “Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women” (Luke 1:28). These are the words of the angel who spoke to Mary. No human being can utter these few words and have them mean what they meant as spoken by the angel. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are the words of the angel to man. Mary would be the mother of Jesus, the Christ, the Son of God. You mothers, just think what you would think if an angel were to say these words to you? No, of course, this is never going to happen today, and I sure do not what to leave any room for err.
Its not the “flowery” words that we may use, to describe “mothers,” that makes the word “mother” great, however. It is the mother who lives up to the “mother” as God would have her, that makes “mother” so great! Let man say and write all they desire about “mother,” but it is not what makes “mother,” so great. No, “mother” as God would have her is the greatest! Here is an interesting thought! If you (mothers) were living back in the time of Mary, could you be the kind of woman that “the angel” could say these words to you: “Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women?” I don’t know, is that really fair? Well, if it is not fair, would you please tell me, “Why not?” Mary was no “super” woman! But what a model she must have been to other women of her day. Then, just think for a moment, what a “spot” God put her in, when the angel spoke these words. Here was a young woman with a good reputation, and she turns up to be “with child;” and she must live nine months this way. What did the other women say, if not to her face, then, behind her back!
Mary must be considered a “model” for young and older women! What do you really know about Mary? If you could put all the New Testament says about Mary in paper, how many pages would it take? Maybe less than one of my “major” sermons?

Frank R. Williams