Barnes church of Christ

The question may come to the readers’ mind: Why so many articles on this subject?” It is because we have some within the churches of Christ who are leaving “the teaching of Christ;” that is, if they have not already departed from the churches of Christ! In so doing this, they are trying to make the churches of Christ into a denomination!
How are they doing this? First, as the title article of the reveals, they are trying very hard to convince us that we are trying to be “too rightness!” Second, allow me to once more to call attention to the words in the article under review: “What does an over-emphasis on our rightness look like?” Let the writer answer his own question: “It looks like a constant dwelling on the doctrines that set us apart from others, like baptism, music, women’s roles, and the like.” These are some of the teaching (doctrine) that separate “the churches of Christ” from denominational churches. When these teachings are removed, we are fully on our way to becoming a denomination. Here is a thought that some miss when addressing these subjects. No man, who teaches the gospel of Christ or anything else for that matter, knows the mind and the understanding of those who are seated before him. Is it not the case, that some, who were baptized in their youth, have concluded that they were too young and did not understand what they were doing? Yes, we have seen such cases! Then, there are visitors who have never obeyed the gospel and who have never heard the gospel in its truth. It is a same that any preacher, who calls himself a preacher of the gospel, who fails to understand these two points and not give God’s plan of salvation! One more thought just here, just how much time does it take to cover God’s plan of salvation? A minute or two?
When the writer questions: “What does an over-emphasis on our rightness look like?” He continues: “It also looks like condescension toward outsiders who disagree.” First, there is no room for “condescension” in the heart of any Christian! Here is what the word means: “an attitude of patronizing superiority; disdain.” No Christian should have any problem understanding that “an attitude of patronizing,” (Which means: “to adopt an air of condescension toward”) superiority” toward others has any place is the heart of a Christian, or among Christians as they worship God “in spirit and in truth”! But, to teach the truth is not showing “an attitude of patronizing superiority!” If so, then Jesus did it and so did the apostles of Christ! Who can believe such? Certainly not a Christian! Before leaving this subject, let us look at the word “disdain” which is the word “condescension.” It means: “a feeling of strong dislike or disapproval of someone or something you think does not deserve respect.” Once more there is no place in the heart of a Christian for sure. It should be remembered, that God loves all of us, Christian or not! Finally, to teach the truth is not showing “an attitude of patronizing superiority!” Jesus taught the truth and he was not showing “an attitude of patronizing superiority! Though he was superior!
The writer continues the same subject, as he wrote: “Additionally, it looks like unfriendliness and unwelcomeness toward any one who dare to question.” As one who has preached the truth for forty-nine years, I resent anyone who would call my preaching sounding “like unfriendliness and unwelcomeness” toward anyone! But the writer did not stop here, but wrote: “The implication is fairly common in the church today that all of the major doctrines (and minor ones, for that matter) were decided once and for all decades ago and we don’t need to revisit or discuss them anymore beyond a memorized defense.” Let me say here, that the writer did not go back far enough; as Jude wrote: “Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3). It may be true, and more than likely is, that some among us stopped their studying and learning at some point! I also freely write, that some preachers are lazy and refuse to learn and all such are a danger to the body of Christ!
In conclusion, all this, written by the writer of the article, is an effort to destroy the teaching that separates the churches of Christ from denominational churches! Call it whatever you like, but the churches of Christ are built upon the truth! We are not perfect, that is, without our faults! But, teaching the truth in love of God and for the lost, is not one of them!

Frank R. Williams

As we continue this series of articles, that we are reviewing an article entitled, “A dangerous trend in the churches of Christ.” In the article the writer is questioning our “rightness,” as though we have too much “rightness!”
Here is the jest of the article, as stated in the writer’s own words: “… but if we’ve come to the place that our rightness outranks Jesus in terms of where we direct our attention (and I believe we have), we have a problem.” Allow me to make a critical point in this whole series of articles: “Just where does this writer and a growing number of others, think we find Jesus?” It is true that some, though not generally among churches of Christ, think they have seen Jesus; let me just say, they are delusional! So we have come back to the question: “Just where do we find Jesus?” The only place we will ever, in this life, locate Jesus, it will be in “the gospel of Christ,” it will be in “the teaching of Christ, it will be in “The New Testament!” Thomas asked Jesus a question: “Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? (John 14:5). Jesus answers Thomas in these words: “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (verse 6). Therefore, it is clear that if we are to know “the way,” “the truth,” and “the life,” we must understand it will be through Jesus! Thus, we must know Jesus!
However, this brings us back to the original question: “how do we know Jesus,” or “how and where do we find Jesus?” Friends, if it is not in “the teaching (doctrine) of Christ,” we will never know Jesus! To minimize “the doctrine (teaching) of Christ,” is to minimize Jesus! Here the apostle 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” (2 John 9). Just how important does John, inspired by the Holy Spirit, put “the doctrine (teaching) of Christ?” John points out, the person who does “abideth not in the doctrine of Christ,” “hath not God!” On the other hand, John also points out, “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.” Now, allow me to ask, is there one of the inspired writers of the New Testament who minimizes “the doctrine of Christ?” No, no not one!
Most us have sung the song: “Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me;” the words to this song are most interesting as they relate to the point we are making. Here are the words to the first verse: “Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me, All His wonderful passion and purity, My His Spirit divine all my being refine, Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me.” (Written by Albert Orsborn). Now, here are my questions: 1) Just where to we learn about the beauty of Jesus? 2) Just where do we learn about his wonderful passion and purity? And 3) Just how does His Spirit divine all my being refine? Each of these questions are answered in the words: “the teaching (doctrine) of Christ!” It is our deepest wish, that the words of the song be true of each of us! But, they never will be true, unless we first fill our spirit/mind with “the teaching (doctrine) of Christ!” No one can be filled with the mind of Christ (Phil 2:5), thus, be filled with Jesus unless, until he is filled with the New Testament; for there is the only place we can be sure we have Jesus!
It is my trust, that each of those who read this series of articles, will understand at least this truth: Jesus is in “the teaching of Christ,” the New Testament! If we are looking elsewhere to find “the mind of Christ,” we are looking in the wrong place! It is truly a blessing to “see the beauty of Jesus” in each of us but it will always be less than the perfect “teaching of Christ!” At the same time, this only shows us how important to others that we be filled with “the beauty of Jesus” let the beauty of Jesus be found in each of us!
Therefore, I ask: “Can others see the beauty of Jesus in each of us?”

Frank R. Williams

The title of the article which provoked this series of articles is: “A dangerous trend in the churches of Christ.” First, let me give the writer credit for using a small “c” in the word “church.” Some of our most “highly” educated have failed to understand that the word “church” is not a proper noun! However, he appears to be willfully unaware that what he writes is not new! In getting right to his point, he wrote: “we put far too much emphasis on our own rightness.” Then, he continued with these words: “Right doctrine that leads to right actions is critically important, BUT (capitalized and bold, added, frw) if we’ve come to the place that our rightness outranks Jesus in terms of where we direct our attention (and I believe we have), we have a problem.” It should not take one with a Doctorate Degree to understand that there is no “rightness” without Jesus and no Jesus without “rightness!” Here is a good place to recall the words of God through Samuel to King Saul: “And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken (The Hebrew, kaw-shab’, which is, “A primitive root; to prick up the ears, that is, hearken: – attend, (cause to) hear (-ken), give heed, incline, mark (well), regard.” (Strong) than the fat of rams” (1 Sam. 15:22). “Rightness” comes through obeying the commandments of God! Worship while disobeying God is enmity, it is unacceptable and vain!
The writer wrote this: “We’re saved by God’s grace as long as our faith is continually placed in Jesus.” May I point out that Paul wrote: “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Rom. 10:17). Here one needs to understand that the word “hearing” is a noun, not a verb; and it comes from the Greek word “akoē” and means: “report;” and is so translated in verse 16: “But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report (akoē)?” Therefore, I state, if our “faith” is not built by the “report,” “the gospel of Christ,” “the teaching of Christ,” It has no saving power whatsoever! We must not forget Paul’s words: “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). We are saved, as Paul wrote, by “the gospel of Christ,” “for (the Greek, gar, “A primary particle; properly assigning a reason,” Strong) it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; …” Now, notice with me, Paul’s next words: “For therein is the righteousness of God revealed …” (verse 17). Once more attention is called to the word “for” and that it is the Greek “gar.” So, why is “the gospel of Christ” God’s power unto salvation? It is because within it, is “the righteousness of God revealed.” Now here is a simple question: “Is Jesus not in “the gospel of Christ,” which is “the teaching of Christ” (2 John 9)?” Give thought to this question: “Is Jesus not in “the gospel of Christ?” Then, if Jesus is within “the teaching of Christ,” “the gospel of Christ,” wherein is “the righteousness of God” is revealed;” can a person have “too much righteousness?” Remember, “rightness” is within “righteousness!” So, how can we have “too much rightness?”
The writer continued with these words: “How do we know if this (Having to much rightness, frw) is a problem? What does an over-emphasis on our rightness look like?” We shall allow the writer to answer the question, himself: “It looks like a constant dwelling on the doctrines that set us apart from others, like baptism, music, women’s roles, and the like.” Let it be known, that the subjects, the ones the writer pointed out, are indeed, some of and may be the major teachings “that set us apart from others!” There have always been those who would destroy the marks of separation; as they try to remake “the churches of Christ,” as they try to denominationalize the churches of Christ! It takes another gospel/teaching to make a denomination; as Paul wrote to the churches of Galatia: “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ” (Gal. 1:6-7).
Friends, there is no salvation, there is no rightness, in another gospel! So, the question to each of us: “Where do we stand?” Is it within “the gospel of Christ;” within “the teaching of Christ?” Do you think you have “too much rightness?”

Frank R. Williams

It is time to get the words from the article that provoked this series of articles. We need to see the author’s own words, so those who read this series of articles, will see that we are handling his words in honesty! It is never the intent of this writer to deal with any article written by another, in any way but with honesty!
In this series of articles, we have, first, proven that no one can love God and not love righteousness! Righteousness is in the breathed-out words of God. Here is what Paul wrote: “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). Notice with me, the words: “inspiration of God” which is translated from the Greek word “theopneustos.” This Greek word means: “divinely breathed in” (Strong). It is most often said that the Greek word, “theopneustos”,” means “divinely breathed out.” There is no problem as it may be expressed either way; as “divinely breathed in,” is viewing it as God breathing the word into the mind of the one who is to speak or write; while “divinely breathed out” is seeing the word coming out of the mind of God. The point being, that “all scripture,” both the Old and the New Testaments, come to the mind of man from the mind of God! Peter put it this way: “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 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. 1:20-21). Here let us notice the words that are so often misunderstood. The words are these? First, the word “private,” which is the Greek “idios” and means: “pertaining to one’s self, one’s own, belonging to one’s self.” Second, the word “interpretation” which is the Greek, “epilusis,” means: “a loosening, unloosing.” This verse teaches that the “loosening” of the “prophecy” was not done from the mind or the tongue of man, but men “in old time” wrote and spoke as “they were moved by the Holy Spirit.”
Second, notice the little word “for” the first word in verse 21. It is the Greek “gar,” which may be the most unnoticed word in the inspired scripture! This little word is: “A primary particle; properly assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation …” (Thayer). In other words, the word “for” is “assigning a reason” to what has just been written. So, what had just been written? Peter had just written: “no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation;” and the reason this is true, is that “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.” In short, the prophecy did not come from man but was given “to holy men of God,” who “spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit!” This is not a passage that teaches, that we (humans) have no divine right to interpret the meaning of the inspired scripture. If so, I just committed sin, but I did not do so! This passage is teaching that “holy men of God” “spake (the prophecy) as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” and it was not their own interpretation! They were not “loosing” from their own minds but the “loosing” was done “by the Holy Spirit!”
Get this please, it is impossible to love God and not love righteousness! Rightness is within the word righteousness, therefore to teach that we have “too much rightness,” is to teach that we have “too much God!” Here is our first quote from the article that we are using from which we get the term, “rightness:” “Right doctrine that leads to right actions is critically important, BUT (capital, added, the word “but” generally negates what was just written. frw) if we’ve come to the place that our RIGHTNESS (capital, added, frw) outranks Jesus in terms of where we direct our attention (and I believe we have), we have a problem.” If you study the history of the churches of Christ in America, then, you have heard words like this several times! Why it is that some believe you can have Jesus outside his teaching (doctrine) I have no idea! Think on this, can Jesus be located outside “the teaching of Christ?”

Frank R. Williams

Songs sometimes say it better than most of us are able. It appears a few years before 1925, Lela B. Long took pencil in hand and wrote words to a song that thrills our hearts even today. There was another who had the same thought but expressed it differently. They had the same central thought. It was, “Jesus is the Sweetest Name I Know.” Lela Long wrote her song using the following words, under the title, “Jesus is the Sweetest Name I Know.”
“There have been names that I loved to hear – But never has there been a name so dear – To this heart of mine, as the Name divine – The precious, precious Name of Jesus. – Jesus is the sweetest name I know – And he’s just the same as his lovely name – And that’s the reason why I love him so – Oh, Jesus is the sweetest name I know. – There is no name in earth or Heav’n abov – That we should give such honor and such love – As the blessed name, let us all acclaim – That wondrous, glorious name of Jesus. … And some day I shall see him face to face – To thank and praise him for his wondrous grace – Which he gave to me, when he made me free – The blessed son of God called Jesus – Jesus is the sweetest name I know – And he’s just the same as his lovely name – And that’s the reason why I love him so – Oh, Jesus is the sweetest name I know.”
Not much is known of Lela B. Long but the words to the song, “Jesus is the sweetest name I know!” This may have been the way she wanted it. What better way to be remembered, than, “Jesus is the sweetest name I know?” If you could choose how you will be remembered after death; just what would it be? Friends, you are now writing the words to your song, the way you will be remembered!
There is another song, written by Bart Millard, with the same thoughts: “Sweetest Name I Know.” The words are: “There’s within my heart a melody – Jesus whispers sweet and low – Fear not, I am with thee, peace, be still – In all of life’s ebb and flow – Though sometimes he leads through waters deep -Trials fall across the way – Though sometimes the path seems rough and steep – See his footprints all the way – Jesus, Jesus, Jesus – Sweetest name I know – Fills my every longing – Keeps me singing as I go – Feasting on the riches of his grace – Resting ‘neath the sheltering wing – Always looking on his smiling face – That is why I shout and sing – All my life was wrecked by sin and strife – Discord filled my heart with pain – Jesus swept across these broken strings – And stirred these chords again – Jesus, Jesus, Jesus – Sweetest name I know – Fills my ever longing – Keeps me singing as I go.” I was not able to find information about Bart Millard.
Both of these songs express the thoughts that should be on the minds all those who are celebrating this time of year. As the words thrill the heart and express such beautiful truths! Yet, it never enters the mind of those today, that the followers of Jesus, believing and obeying “the teaching of Christ,” never, no, not one time ever celebrated the birthday of Jesus. No effort was given to the time of Jesus’ birthday, outside the gospel accounts of Matthew, Mark, and Luke; and John does not even write of the birth of Jesus. Yet, the modern worshippers of “the day,” Christmas, of which no one even knows; will stand and debate and call you an unbeliever, if you should be so brave to say it has nothing to do with Christianity, “the teaching of Christ!”
These same folks will tell you the New Testament does not teach that the Christian must take of the Lord’s Supper every “first day of the week!” So, what do we have? We have a day, “the first day of the week,” which rests in the authority of Christ and a manmade day, Christmas; to which do most folks adhere to? Better yet, which day to you adhere to: the day which rests in the authority of Christ, or to the man-made day?

Frank R. Williams

John, the apostle who is called, “the apostle of love;” wrote: “All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death” (1 John 5:17). Our challenge now is to find out what is “righteousness;” as we know that “all unrighteousness is sin!” Here we turn to the Psalm, where we read: “My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.” (Psa. 119:172). No person who claims to love truth, would never encourage anyone to disobey, even one commandment of God! To do so would be encouraging this person to sin! Even in this short introduction, we know of the importance of “righteousness!”
In looking at the word “righteousness,” the following words were found as part of what the word “righteousness” means: 1) virtue, 2) morality, and 3) justice. How sweet are these three words that fit within the word righteousness! To discourage righteousness, would also be discouraging virtue, morality, and justice. It is not hard to see, just in these three words, how important righteousness is! Read this: “To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice” (Pro. 21:3). Why is it “more acceptable to the LORD” to “do justice and judgment?” Is it not that to fail “to do justice and judgment” negates our sacrifice? Our “sacrifice” today is our worship; read the words of Peter: “Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ” (1 Pet.2:5). Our “spiritual sacrifice” starts with the giving of ourselves to God, in believing the gospel, repenting of our sins, confessing the Lordship of Christ, and in being baptized into Christ. Then, being “in Christ” (Gal. 3:26-27) we can offer up “spiritual sacrifices” (worship) “acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.” As in the Old Testament time, so in the age of Christ, the New Testament age, our failure to do virtue, morality, and justice, which is part of “righteousness,” negates our “spiritual sacrifices!” Therefore, it is not hard to understand the importance of doing righteousness, which consists of God’s commandments!
Now, here is our question: Where would you look for “rightness?” Would “rightness” be found outside of “righteousness?” If we think, that too much attention is being paid to “rightness,” in all honesty, is this not saying that too much attention is being paid to “righteousness?” Keep in mind, all of God’s commandments are righteousness (Psa. 119:172). Another important question: Just which commandment or commandments of God are we putting too much importance? Generally, it is the case, the charge is made that we spend, teach/preach, too much on: 1) mechanical music, 2) baptism, and 3) taking the Lord’s Supper every first day of the week. For us “old” preachers, who have studied the history of the churches of Christ in America, there is nothing new in any of these charges! Yes, different words have been used through the years; as there has been the debate over the subject of the “silence of the scripture” giving authority to act, which is at least as old as Martin Luther; therefore, to preach/teach on this subject is giving too much attention too “rightness!” Then, we are hearing that we, the churches of Christ, are trying to be to “rightness” in regard to those with whom we disagree! Take the subject of what one must do in order to be saved from past sins. The New Testament clearly teaches that a person must: 1) hear/understand “the teaching of Christ” as it relates to the fundamentals of this teaching; 2) believe the gospel, which includes that God exists and that Jesus of Nazareth is the Christ; 3) repent of sin, having a change of mind about the manner of living; 4) confessing that Jesus is Lord to the glory of God, which is making a covenant with God; 5) that one must be baptized with a view to having sins forgiven; and 6) determining to live faithful to God through Christ until death. Yes, these may be worded differently, even as the inspired writers did; but the basics are necessary to be saved and to remain saved. These fundamental truths cannot be changed, and to preach/teach them is not being too “rightness!”
So, in concluding this article, to charge us with preaching/teaching too much “rightness” is also to charge the inspired writers of the New Testament with being too “rightness!” Who among us can know the mind and the needs of those who are assembled on the first day of the week?

Frank R. Williams

Have you ever thought that you, that any person, could somehow “love God and not love righteousness?” There is a somewhat “new” trend among some, that they think, that they really believe, it is possible to love God without loving righteousness. No, in their “higher” learning, in their “mind’ above the rest of us; they have dropped part of the work “righteousness” to just “rightness!” Of course, when these folks of “higher” learning order something, by using the internet, or even “slow mail,” they get very upset if what they ordered is not what they received! They want “rightness!”
Therefore, let us look at the word “righteousness.” In general, “righteousness” is the state of being righteous! But, to see the word more fully, we turn to Thayer, who gives: ”1) in a broad sense: state of him who is as he ought to be, righteousness, the condition acceptable to God 1a) the doctrine concerning the way in which man may attain a state approved of God 1b) integrity, virtue, purity of life, rightness, correctness of thinking feeling, and acting 2) in a narrower sense, justice or the virtue which gives each his due.” Did you see the word “rightness” is what Thayer wrote? It is within the words: “1b) integrity, virtue, purity of life, rightness.” But, let us go the second “mile;” Strong gives: “equity (of character or act); specifically (Christian) justification: – righteousness.” Taking some of these one at a time; we have this: 1) “in a broad sense: state of him who is as he ought to be, righteousness, the condition acceptable to God,” and we must not leave out the word “rightness” (Thayer); 2) “specifically (Christian) justification: – righteousness” (Strong). Two more points, these from the inspired scripture! Frist, David wrote: “My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness” (Psa. 119:172). Earlier David had written: “Blessed are they that keep judgment, and he that doeth righteousness at all times (Psa. 106:3). On and on we could go with this but turning our attention to the New Testament, John wrote: ““Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he (God frw) is righteous” (1 John 3:7). Of course, we need to ask the question, why is John so concerned with “righteousness?” Let John, himself answer our question: “even as he (God, frw) is righteous!” Let me dare you to be “righteous,” without having “rightness!” How blind are the blind?
Is it true, that the above verses do not have the word “rightness” in them? Here is meant that the word “rightness” does appear in the word “righteousness.” Calling upon Thayer once more, he wrote: “integrity, virtue, purity of life, rightness.” So, it is not honest to conclude that the word “rightness” is not therein! As some of the “old time” preachers were somewhat fond of saying, “If you can see through a ladder, you can see this.” In other words, if you cannot see the word “rightness” within the word “righteousness,” don’t look at the ladder! While you are looking at the subject, it might be good to think on this: “All unrighteousness is sin: …” (1 John 5:17). Are we wrong to conclude, that “all unrightness is sin?” It is so glaringly wrong, to think/ teach, that we are giving too much time to the necessity of “rightness!”
It might help to look at the other side of “rightness.” Would the other side of “rightness” be “wrongness” or would it be “unrghtness?” Once more I recall the words of the “old time” preachers; who like to say, “If not, why not?” If the other side of “rightness” is not “wrongness,” or “un–rightness,” just what would you call it? At least it is less than “rightness!” If there is some area between “rightness” and “wrongness,” (un-rightness) the high learned among us have found what Jesus knew nothing of! When confronted by “the chief priests and the elders of the people,” they questioned him about his authority, he asked them: “The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or of men? (Matt. 21:23-25); Jesus recognized but two areas, “from heaven” “or of men!” Therefore, the conclusion is reached, there is no area between “rightness,” and “un-rightness” (wrongness)!
The conclusion is reached, to teach/preach that we have given too much time to “rightness” is to encourage men to sin! By what right do such men call themselves, “preachers of the gospel?” Take down the sign, “gospel preacher!” Do you really think that you can love God without loving “rightness?”

Frank R. Williams

In this article we will be looking at “The New Age” religion and a few of its beliefs. First, it is NOT related to Christianity! It is said that this religion promotes the development of the person’s own power or divinity. Divinity is the quality or state of being Divine! Being Divine is the same as being God! In the New Testament there is one Greek word translated both “Godhead” and “divine.” First, when Paul was at Athens, he declares to them what they worshipped what they called “the unknown God.” In doing so, he said: “God (theos) that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord (kurios) of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; (Acts 17:24-25). He then followed with: “For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring” (verse 28). This brings us to verse 29: “Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God (theos), we ought not to think that the Godhead (theios) is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.” Just a point here before moving on, Paul’s argument is: 1) we are not made of gold, silver, and graven by art and man’s device, therefore, 2) neither is the God of who we are his offspring! No, man is much more than these physical items; as he who made us and whose “offspring” we are, is not such!
It is the Greek word “theios,” translated “Godhead” that we are here interested in. The reason is that Peter also used this same Greek word: “According as his divine (theios) power hath given unto us (the apostles, frw) all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue” (2 Pet. 1:3). Then, Peter informs us that he gave to the apostles, “all things that pertain unto life and godliness,” in order that we “might be partakers of the divine (theios) nature” (verse 4). We, who obey the gospel of Christ, do not become God, but we do become “partakers of the divine nature!” It is the natural order of becoming “partakers of the divine nature,” that our “nature” becomes like the “nature” of God. The word “nature” is the Greek “phusis” which means: “growth (by germination or expansion), that is, (by implication) natural production (lineal descent).” Here it would be good to recall the way God created man in the beginning: “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: …” (Gen. 1:26). In obeying the gospel of Christ, we have the opportunity to become once more, what we were as made by God in the beginning! Man was in the beginning, germinated by God and in obeying the gospel, we are, in a sense, re-germinated by God; as Peter wrote: “Being born again (begotten, frw), not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever” (1 Pet. 1:23).
Now, with these thoughts in our mind, let us return to what is called: “The New Age” religion. Remember from our opening statement: “It is said that this religion promotes the development of the person’s own power or divinity.” Divinity is the quality or state of being Divine!” Having now looked at the word “Divine,” and the word “Godhead,” both being the same Greek word, which is “spoken of the only and true God” (Thayer). For the “New Age” folks which “promotes the development of the person’s own power or divinity,” is to declare they are “gods!” There is a great difference between being “made in the image and likeness” of God and claiming to be god! Here I quote: “A person in New Age would see themselves as deity, the cosmos, the universe” (EveryStudent.com). This reminds me of a woman I heard on a FOX NEWS program, as the woman said, “We are whatever we want to be.” She went as far to say; a white American male can be an Hawaiian female. Here is a good answer to such: “Each of the major religions doesn’t have a different path up the same mountain — they are not even on the same mountain!”
“The teaching of Christ” is the one true religion; as it has within of, the one true and living God! In “the teaching of Christ,” no one is what he just says so! Peter wrote: “Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: Being born (begotten, frw) again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever” (1 Pet. 1:22-23).

Frank R. Williams

Is there anything that is without controversy? Not likely these days! I can remember being taught certain things about Thanksgiving Day in the early years of my schooling. Today, like so many other things, things I was taught are now challenged by this one and that one! It is true, that many facts get lost through the years, and no one living today was present for what we call the first ‘Thanksgiving” in America; therefore, for the sake of the fact that America has a day, one day of the year, which is called “Thanksgiving Day,” let us forgo the controversies.
Here is a little “history” about the unique day in America, that we call Thanksgiving Day. Here is what I found; “Thanksgiving, or Thanksgiving Day, is a public holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States. It originated as a harvest festival. Thanksgiving has been celebrated nationally on and off since 1789, after Congress requested a proclamation by George Washington. It has been celebrated as a federal holiday every year since 1863, when, during the American Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national day of “Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens,” to be celebrated on the last Thursday in November (Wikipedia, underlines and bold in the quote).
Whatever the case maybe, America has a unique “Thanksgiving Day!” At least this is true in my “eyes!” We can debate and debate, as some are prone to do but America has a “Thanksgiving Day!” This is the result of America’s willingness to see that there is reason to set aside one day of the year, enjoy the bounty, or even the scarcity of the year now present, and be thankful! To the Christian, there is nothing unreasonable about this attitude! This is one “Holiday” that in and of itself, has no religious background; such as Christmas, which is “Christ” “mas,” of which the New Testament knows nothing and came to the world through the Roman Catholic Church. The “teaching of Christ” knows nothing of “mass!” The Latin term “missa” itself was in use by the 6th century; this is like a confession, that it is not of the New Testament! The New Testament being completed by 70 A.D. (To those who hold that the New Testament was not completed until 96 A.D; this is still too early for the “missa” that which was in use by the 6th century!).
Thanksgiving is at the heart of Christianity! When Paul wrote, “be filled with the Spirit” (Eph. 5:18), he then reveals the results, or the means of: “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord” (verse 19). Then, he continued with the thought, still revealing what it means to “be filled with the Spirt;” “Giving thanks always for all things unto God and (Greek word “kai,” which can mean, “even”) the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (verse 20). Therefore, giving thanks, having a thankful attitude is natural to the Christian! It is part of the character of a Christian! Paul also wrote: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God” (Phil. 4:6). Here, let us take advantage of the fact that we are looking at this verse, to note what some fail to understand. It is the words “be careful for nothing.” The word “careful” (merimnaō) meaning “to be anxious about” “nothing!” This may help: “very concerned about something .” Now for the words, 1) “supplication (deēsis) which means: “a petition” and “request;” 2) “prayer,” the Greek “proseuchē” means: “prayer (worship); and these two works are followed with our word, “thanksgiving;” which is the Greek “eucharistia” and means: “gratitude; actually grateful language (to God, as an act of worship)” (Strong).
It is good that America, at least once a year, stops and has a day of Thanksgiving! I am not deceived, that most of Americans even think of God on this day, but it is still good that America, nevertheless, has such a day! Therefore, as a Christian, let us be grateful to God and give him our thanks for all the blessings we so enjoy both physical and spiritual!

Frank R. Williams

The question, does Hinduism have a “god” is most interesting! Here is one statement dealing with the subject: “Hinduism cannot be described as an organized religion. It is not founded by any individual. Hinduism is God centred and therefore one can call Hinduism as founded by God, because the answer to the question ‘Who is behind the eternal principles and who makes them work?’ will have to be ‘Cosmic power, Divine power, God.” (Tawfik Hamid). One might ask, “Do you know any more than you did to start with?” Just how unorganized is Hinduism? It is said that Hindus, can in fact, choose to be polytheistic, pantheistic, monotheistic, agnostic and even atheistic! It is most difficult to arrive at any comprehensive definition as to just what Hinduism is. The general answer is, Hinduism is whatever the individual person determines for himself, this is “Hinduism!” Nevertheless, there are some practices; such as: 1) Yoga, 2) meditations, 3) a pilgrimage to what they call, “holy cities,” as in more than one, and 4) they live according to “one’s dharma (purpose/role), or as one determines. But in the end, Hinduism is whatever the individual mind says it is!!
Is the Hinduism religion just as good as all other religions and no worse? Yes and no! One may debate just how Hinduism is measured alongside all other religions but when tested by the religion of Christ, it falls deeply short and in fact, it’s moral base is very weak and this a real understatement! As one writer put it: “The greatest problem for Hinduism is its lack of a moral foundation. Recall that in a Hindu universe, good and evil are equal opposites, created by the mind of Brahma. In such a worldview, it cannot be said that there is anything wrong with evil.” (An Essay By Hannah D. // 9/6/2013). It is, therefore, a most convenient religion!
Without any hesitation, it maybe concluded that Hinduism is a religion that is not the equal to Christianity; and not only so, but it is harmful to those who follow it! Hinduism came, largely, through the minds of unknown men! One of the more interesting things about Hinduism is that it has no founder, neither does it have a date of origin. The writers of what is known as “sacred” texts are largely unknown! It is believed that Hinduism started as early as 1,500 B.C. and their oldest text is the Vedas. In our study, it is most important to note that there is no one core teaching; thus, it is removed from controversies, as in “proof text” debates! It is mostly cultural and not creedal. Hindus consider the Vedas to be apauruseya, which means ‘not of a man, superhuman’ and ‘impersonal, authorless” (From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia). Also from Wikipedia, this: “Vedas are also called śruti (“what is heard”) literature,[8] distinguishing them from other religious texts, which are called smrti (“what is remembered”).” Nevertheless, whatever written material Hinduism has, it is all from the weak minds of men!
However, this is not the end, these writing also are divided. “There are four Vedas: the Rigveda, the Yajurveda, the Samaveda and the Atharvaveda.” Each Veda has been subclassified into four major text types – the Samhitas (mantras and benedictions), the Aranyakas(text on rituals, ceremonies, sacrifices and symbolic-sacrifices), the Brahmanas (commentaries on rituals, ceremonies and sacrifices), and the Upanishads (texts discussing meditation, philosophy and spiritual knowledge). Yet, Hinduism is still largely just what a person says it is, more or less! I was unable to find information about disfellowship or excommunication! This certainly goes along with the individuality, the nature of Hinduism!
When the question is asked: “Is one religion as good as any other religion?” The answer, despite “pluralism” which has become the religion of the “Politically Correct,” Hinduism is not as good as, nor anywhere near “the teaching of Christ,” which was given by the Holy Spirit through inspired men! There is no salvation in Hinduism!

Frank R. Williams