Barnes church of Christ

So, just what part of “hades” do you think the spirit of Jesus went to? It was with this question that we ended the first article under the above heading. We learned that “Hades” has three parts: 1) “Abraham’s bosom,” where Lazarus was comforted; 2) the “great gulf” through which no one could pass; and 3) “torments” where the rich man found himself. Now, just think for a moment, Jesus was without sin, he did everything his Father desired of him, he was righteous; therefore, just where would his spirit fit in a place of “torments, or in place of “comfort?”
To answer the question, biblically, let us go to “Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull,” where Jesus is being crucified with two malefactors, one on the right and one on the left. One of these spoke words of honesty, which also might indicate repentance, to the other: “Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss” (Luke 23:40-41). Then, he also spoke to Jesus some most remarkable words: “Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom” (Luke 23:42). Remarkable in that he is speaking to a dying man, but talking about his coming into “thy kingdom.” This robber, being a dying man himself, speaking to a dying man, about a kingdom that does not yet exist, but will exist in the near future. But, back to our question, “what part of Hades did the spirit of Jesus go at his death?” Jesus’ following words will answer the question, as he said to this man: “Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). Now, which goes together, “torments” and “paradise,” or “Abraham’s bosom” and “paradise?” You don’t have to be a “Rocket Scientist” to answer this question, but you do have to be honest! It is clear that “paradise” and “Abraham’s bosom” are the same place; therefore, the part of Hades that the spirit of Jesus went to was the same place Lazarus, the beggar, went, “Abraham’s bosom” is equal to “paradise!”
Let us not forget how we got to this subject in the first place. It is a misunderstanding of Peter’s quote from Psalms 16:10, in Acts 2:27 – “Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell (hades, frw), neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.” Note that the King James word “hell” in this verse is the Greek “hades,” which clears up one false idea, that Jesus went into “hell,” meaning eternal hell, the Greek “geenna” (Gehenna). But, is there another passage that some use to teach this same doctrine? Yes there is and it is time to look at it. The passage reads: “For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water” (1 Pet. 3:18-20). First, please notice that the word “hell” is not to be found in the passage! It was “by the Spirit” that Jesus is said to have “went and preached unto the spirits in prison.” The conclusion reached by some is that the word “prison” refers to “hell.” However, let us notice just who these “spirits in prison” are; Peter identifies them “which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the day of Noah,” then he hit the nail on the head, “while the ark was a preparing.” So, there are the “spirits in prison.” In what “prison” were they in? How about “prison” of sin? Let us remember Noah was a “preacher of righteousness;” as Peter wrote on the same subject: “And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly” (2 Pet. 2:5). Therefore, it may be concluded that Jesus, through the same spirit by which he was quickened, preached through Noah to those during the time the ark was being prepared. The time the preaching was being done, was “when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah.” No, Jesus did not go into “Gehenna,” eternal hell, giving people a second chance. Ask yourself this question: “How many souls would be left in hell, if they had a chance to get out?”
One last thought by way of conclusion. When viewing eternal hell, “Gehenna,” Jesus taught that it is eternal, in fact, he used the word to describe both heaven and hell: “And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal” (Matt. 25:46). The English words “everlasting” and “eternal” in this verse are the same Greek word, “aionios.” Therefore, whatever it means in one, it means in both!
This leaves us with the third word which is translated “hell” in the New Testament. This will be the subject of the third and final article in this series.

–Frank R. Williams

One thing most people know about “hell” is that they do not want to go there! Just how, or what is necessary to avoid going to “hell” may be a most unknown to these same people, however. It is known by many that Jesus went to “hell” after death. This comes from the words of Peter on the day of Pentecost, as he quoted from the Psalms: “thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption” (Acts 2:26; Psa. 16:10).
It is from the Psalms, which Peter quoted, that a false doctrine arose, and it came about because people did not know that in the New Testament the inspired writers used three different Greek words which are unfortunately translated in the King James Version into our one English word “hell.” Therefore, the first thing a person needs to know about the word “hell” is that there are three Greek words translated “hell.” A person is never going to really understand the subject without this knowledge. Without this knowledge, a person may conclude that Jesus did in fact go into the place known as eternal “hell.” However, the Bible never teaches such!
The first thing we need to know, what are the three Greek words and to what do they refer? First, let us take the Greek word “geenna” which better known as “Gehenna.” Thayer says of this word: “This was originally the valley of Hinnom, south of Jerusalem, where the filth and dead animals of the city were cast out and burned; a fit symbol of the wicked and their future destruction.” However, the valley of Hinnom has a history which is most unpleasant as it relates to the Jews. The Valley of Hinnom had a very horrendous history in ancient times. It was used as a place where the pagan worshipers did all sorts of vile and wicked things – including burning children alive as sacrifices to the idol Moloch. Worse yet, it appears that there was a time when even Israel offered their children as a sacrifice to the idol Moloch in the Valley of Hinnom. In the time of Jesus, it truly was a place, “Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched” (Mark 9:48). This is the place Jesus used as a figure of eternal “hell.” The New Testament never says that Jesus went to this place!
Second, let us look at the Greek word “hades,” which is also translated “hell.” This is the word that so many fail to understand; in fact, many read the New Testament as though this word does not appear at all. This is the word used by Peter as he quoted from Psalms 16:10, in Acts 2:26: “thou wilt not leave my soul in hell (Hades, frw), neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.” Yes, this is the place Jesus’ spirit went when his spirit departed his body. Remember here the word of James: “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also” (James 2:26). When Jesus died on the cross, his spirit departed his body and his spirit went to Hades. However, this is only part of the story when it comes to Hades!
When looking at Jesus’ death, keep in mind his body was taken by Joseph of Arimathaea: “And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed” (Matt. 27:60). His spirit, on the other hand, went into Hades, as God would not “leave” his “soul,” his “spirit” in “hades.” His body was not in the sepulcher long enough to “see corruption,” not long enough to“stinketh” (as in the case of Lazarus) (John 11:39). To understand “hades,” we need to study of the “rich man and the beggar Lazarus. This is not the Lazarus whose body “stinketh.” The story is in Luke chapter sixteen. There was a rich man who died, whose body was buried and his spirit went to “hades,” which was in “torments.” On the other hand, Lazarus the beggar was in “Abraham’s bosom” a place of comfort. The “rich man” being in “torments,” was told, when he desired that Lazarus might come and comfort him, “there is a great gulf fixed” between “Abraham’s bosom” and the place of “torments,” and that no one could pass. Therefore, Hades is a place of departed “spirits” which has three parts: 1) “Abraham’s bosom,” 2) the “great gulf,” and 3) “torments.”
Now, here is the question, “The spirit of Jesus went into Hades, but what part did his spirit go?” Before going on, just what part of hades do you think the spirit of Jesus went? In the story above, it is clear the “rich man” was an evil man. Why you ask? Well, there was Lazarus, a beggar in need and the “rich man” who never offered to help him; no, not even with the “crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table.” He went to the part of “hades” describes by the word “torments,” while “Lazarus” was comforted in “Abraham’s bosom.” So, just what part of “hades” do you think the spirit of Jesus went?
We will answer the question as we study more on subject in the second article, “What do you know about hell?”

— Frank R. Williams

If a person believes in “fate,” it will affect the way he lives! Let us say, you are going into battle, if you believe in “fate,” “whatever will be, will be,” then, you enter the battle with reckless abandonment; for whether you live or die, has already been predetermined. Putting your life in danger, does not change “fate!”
Let us say, you have done all within your power to stay alive through a great battle; does this mean you will not be killed in battle? No! There are innumerable occurrences that could adversely affect you and bring about your death. Believing in “fate,” you recklessly abandoned all caution, throwing yourself into battle. Why? Because you are a Muslim, which means, one who submits to the will of Allah. By accepting Allah’s power, knowledge and control of your destiny, you have learned to submit to what he has prescribed for you; be it life or death, “whatever will be, will be!”
The Muslim term for “fate” or as they would say, “divine destiny,” is Qadar. This belief keeps the Muslim from becoming too boastful or too despondent, be things good or evil; as it is the will of Allah! If tragedy strikes, the Muslim understands it is the will of Allah. This way he has learned to accept it with patience and humility; not with despair and frustration. You see, “whatever will be, will be!” Therefore, the Muslim believes that “Qadar,” “divine destiny,” or as we are using it in this series of articles, “fate,” will keep him from becoming too boastful or arrogant.
The idea of “fate” translates itself into “fatalism,” which is the belief that all events are predetermined in advance and cannot be changed; therefore inevitable. The Bible does not teach “fate;” thus, it does not teach “fatalism.” However, the Bible does teach that certain actions do lead to certain results; as in cause and effect. Therefore, give thought to the following. First, “He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the rod of his anger shall fail” (Pro. 22:8). Is this generally true? Yes! It is not “fate,” but a general principle of life. Second, “But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul“ (Pro. 6:32). Is this “fatalism?” No! But it is another general principle of life. Third, “The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the LORD” (Pro. 19:3). Is this “fate” as generally understood? No! But it is biblical truth! Now, it is important to notice the difference in the words of the third point and the other two. The first two are general principles of life, while the third one is a spiritual truth in our relationship with God. The Bible does not teach “fate,” neither does it teach “fatalism!”
So, what does the Bible teach? The Bible teaches the free will of man; the free moral agency of man. It is clear that God created man as a free moral agency and this is seen in the commandment which God gave to Adam: “Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die” (Gen. 2:16-17). Was Adam free to eat of “tree of the knowledge of good and evil?” Yes, he was and he did! Both Adam and Eve ate of the tree and they both suffered the consequences of their action, which action was sin! They were spiritually separated from God, spiritual death; and their physical bodies became subject to physical death. This is not “fatalism,” but cause and effect; “fatalism” does not recognize the free moral agency of man, as it does not matter what man does, “fatalism” says the result will be the same! If it is your “fate” to die at a certain time, no matter what you are doing, “fate” says you are going to die at that time. If you turn to the right, if you turn to the left, if you go straight ahead, if you turn around, you are going to die anyway!
Let us be grateful for Jesus’ words: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matt. 11:28-30). These words express and recognize the free moral agency of man! My friends, it is your choice, it is a choice that only you can make! It has not been made for you a head of time; no “fate” in it!
The gospel was given to be taught so you can believe it, repent of your sins, confess your faith in Jesus as Lord, and be baptized in order have your sins forgiven; and to arise out of the water into newness of life (Rom. 6:3-4). Thus, you are free to act; it is not “fate,” but action of your free will as the Bible does not teach “fate,” neither does it teach “fatalism!”

— – Frank R. Williams

Some of you have heard, “Que sera, sera,” but do you know what the words mean? Well, the words go back a few years, in fact, they go back to when we older folks were young folks. They are the opening words of a song, sung by Doris Day in 1956, written by the team of Jay Livingston and Ray Evans. The song was introduced in the Alfred Hitchcock movie, “The Man Who Knew Too Much,” starring Doris Day and James Stewart. This information does not, of course, tell us what the words mean. Well, they mean, “Whatever will be, will be,” and the song goes on with the words, “The future’s not ours to see, Que sera, sera, What will be, will be.”
So why are we writing about this? The words express an idea which is often heard today. They express a philosophy (The most basic beliefs, concepts, and attitudes by which a person lives.) which is much embraced today. It is called, “fate,” and means: “the development of events beyond a person’s control, regarded as determined by a supernatural power; to predetermine, as by decree of fate.” In other words, “what will be, will be!” It carries with it the idea that there is nothing you can do that will change the future; it will be! In one respect, it is a deadend way of looking at life! It relieves one of all responsibility; it removes cause and effect from one’s life. One is free to do whatever, it will not change the future, it will not change the result; as “whatever will be, will be!”
A little history might be useful in this study. Just where and when did this idea first appear? John Russell, 1st Earl of Bedford, first adopted the “Italian” form of the words as a family motto in 1525. This was done after his experience at the Battle of Pavia. On the other hand, the “Spanish” form of the words appeared on a brass plaque in the Church of St. Nicholas, dated 1559. Just as note of interest, no history in Spain or France on these words, and in fact, is ungrammatical in these Romance languages. So, how do the words get from this background, to Doris Day? Livingston and Evans had some knowledge of Spanish, and early in their career they worked together as musicians on cruise ships to the Caribbean and South America. Composer Jay Livingston had seen the 1954 Hollywood film The Barefoot Contessa, in which a fictional Italian family has the motto “Che sarà sarà” carved in stone at their ancestral mansion. He immediately wrote it down as a possible song title, and he and lyricist Ray Evans later gave it a Spanish spelling “because there are so many Spanish-speaking people in the world.” (From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia).
This way of thinking, which becomes a way of living, is somewhat, if not all together hopeless! It removes all reason to hope; hope meaning, expectation of good. If your life is going bad, “whatever will be, will be;” and you cannot change it, where is hope! You might just think, “Life is not worth living!” It is interesting to learn, that in America, in 2013, 41,149 suicides were reported, making suicide the 10th leading cause of death in America. The number one reason for suicide is hopelessness! It is expressed in the word: depression! If there is nothing you can do to change the future of your life, as in “whatever will be, will be,” depression just may result!
However, this is not the teaching of Christ! This teaching, first teaches forgiveness through obeying the gospel of Christ: believing, repenting, confessing, and being baptized unto the forgiveness of sins! Second, it teaches newness of life: “therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Rom. 6:4). This all started in God’s love; therefore, the gospel teaches that God loves us, this love is so great that he gave his “only begotten Son” to die on the cross that we might have life, and have it more abundantly (John 3:16, & 10:10).
My friends, the teaching of Christ does not teach “fate,” but it does teach that you can change your life; you can change it now and eternally.

— Frank R. Williams

So who uses the term “Judeo-Christian?” For the most part, it is denominational preachers, who are called “pastors.” Generally speaking, they are addressing the moral values of the “Ten Commandments,” the law God gave to Israel at Mount Sinai and the moral values of the teaching of Christ found in the New Testament. It is true, nine of the Ten Commandments are found in the New Testament, but this does not make them “Judeo-Christian!” It makes them the teaching of Christ! Of course, there are others, not “pastors” who use the term “Judeo-Christian.” Yes, the term is heard in politics.
The truth of the matter is, it was not the “Judeo-Christian” ideas that America was founded upon, but biblical principles. It was Alexis de Tocqueville in his most influential book, “Democracy in America,” (if you have not read this book, you should) who first described and popularized the distinctive religious basis for American democracy and culture in the 1840’s. His analysis showed the Puritans, in their biblical views, as providing the foundational values of America. These views included earthly political justice, emphasis on laws and education, and a moral dimension which was lacking elsewhere. De Tocqueville believed these biblical values led this nation to its unique institutions of religious tolerance, public education, equalitarianism, and democracy. (Ideas from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia). The point here is that the Bible did play a major role in the founding values, the morals, of America, but it was not “Judeo-Christian!” Judaism and Christianity are different, in fact, they are rival religions! Judaism rejects Jesus is the Christ, while Christianity stands upon it! Judaism rejects the New Testament as being the inspired word of God, while Christianity lives and breathes its inspired truth. Judaism lives in an earthly kingdom, while Christianity exists in the spiritual kingdom of the dear son of God.
The truth is, the concept of a common “Judeo-Christian” tradition has more to do with post-1945 politics and a certain ‘public relations’ than it does with any historical and Biblical reality. One writer put it this way: “Liberal Jews fear most religion. They identify religion — especially fundamentalist religion and especially Christianity — with anti-Semitism. Jews are taught from birth about the horrors of the Holocaust, and of nearly 2,000 years of European, meaning Christian, anti-Semitism. They therefore tend to fear Christianity and believe that secularism guarantees their physical security. That is what animates the ACLU and its disproportionately Jewish membership, under the guise of concern with the Constitution and “separation of church and state” (words that do not appear in the Constitution), to fight all public expressions of Christianity in America.” It should be easy to see, the idea of “Judeo-Christian” is very one sided, “Christian” and totally non-Jewish. Therefore, it is hard to understand why some are so determined to promote the idea of “Judeo-Christian!”
Is it possible that much of the idea in the words “Judeo-Christian” is a belief in a future earthly kingdom in Jerusalem? A future earthly kingdom in Jerusalem, the homeland of Israel, the Jews, would require that both Jews and Christians come together as one earthly kingdom. Of course, it would also require that the Jews, who reject Jesus is the Christ, would have to confess him as Christ and king. Thus, the importance of the words “Judeo-Christian” in the politics of today is easy to be understood, as much of the denominational world believes in pre- millennialism: the belief that Jesus will literally and physically return to the earth and reign as king in Jerusalem. Therefore, America must defend the nation of Israel; we must be pro-Israel!
However, one does not have to believe in “pre-millennialism,” or any other “millennialism” to be pro-Israel. They are the only true, freedom loving, democracy in that part of the earth. They are a very congruous people; they are a very small nation, surrounded by other nations and peoples who would like to destroy them. At the same time, this “Judeo-Christian” term is false! Arthur A. Cohen, in his book “The Myth of the Judeo-Christian Tradition” pointed out: “The Jews expected a redeemer to come out of Zion; Christianity affirmed that a redeemer had come out of Zion, but that he had come for all mankind. Judaism denied that claim.” Then, Israeli Orthodox Jewish Theologian Eliezer Berkovitz said it even more clearly: “Judaism is Judaism because it rejects Christianity and Christianity is Christianity because it rejects Judaism.” So much for “Judeo-Christianity,” but it will not go away!

— Frank R. Williams

Do you remember the first time you heard the words, ”Judeo-Christian?” Do you remember ever not hearing the words, “Judeo-Christian?” If you are under thirty years of age, then you have heard these words all your life. On the other hand, if you are older than sixty, you might remember there was a time in your life when you did not hear these words. So, what is the point? Denominational preachers throw these words around as though they are New Testament in nature. They deserve a study.
The area these words are most often heard is in the context of, “This nation was founded upon ‘Judeo-Christian’ principles.” The first question that needs an answer, is when was the first time these two words were used and second, what is the history? To the best of my research, it was Alexander M’Caul in a letter dated October 17, 1821, who first used the phrase. This was followed in 1829 by Joseph Wolff, who writing in a missionary journal used the words. However, neither used the words as they are used today, but used the words to refer to Jews converted to Christianity. The words are not used this way today!
Today, the phrase, “Judeo-Christian,” is used to refer to the ethics of the two religions: Judaism and Christianity. It first appeared in this form in July 27, 1939, in the “New English Weekly” and continued to grow in use from the 1940’s to the present. However, from its early use there has been an effort to change history. It is common to hear today, America was founded upon “Judeo-Christian principles.” It is interesting to note that in 1776 – 1790, the Jewish population in America was less 3,000, while the total population was 2.5 million. Therefore, the Jewish influence in writing the Constitution and the Bill of Rights was near zero, if not zero all together. In the 1940’s, groups evolved, such as the National Conference of Christians and Jews, to fight anti-Semitism which promoted the idea of “Judeo-Christian.” The fact that the new meaning had grown may be seen in the words of Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States, who looking at the “Founding Fathers” said: “all men are endowed by their Creator.” In other words, “our form of government has no sense unless it is founded in a deeply felt religious faith, and I don’t care what it is. With us of course it is the Judeo-Christian concept, but it must be a religion with all men created equal”. From the 1950’s the use of the term would become more common and more political. During the 1950’s, “conservatives” in America started emphasizing the “Judeo-Christian” values, then, through the 60’s and 70’s efforts were made to restore “Judeo-Christian” values to a country that was deep in moral decline.
By the 1990’s the words “Judeo-Christian” became especially significant in the political field. Here it was the “Judeo-Christian” values and it was at the heart of the “culture wars.” It is of interest to note, that only America identifies itself by the words “Judeo-Christian.” But, this is not the only use of the term. Included in the term “Judeo-Christian” is the growth of anti-Semitism, the rise of Hitler in the 1930’s and World War II; thus, the growth of support for the nation of Israel in 1948 became included, which continues today!
It is easy to see that the words “Judeo-Christian” is a complicated phrase which has continued to change in how it has been used through the years. Yet, today it is used in an effort to bring about a kinship between two religions: Judaism and Christianity. Denominationalism has always had a major problem in understanding that Christianity is not an extension of Judaism, but a new religion. The words of Jewish author S. Levin express the difference well: “’After all, we worship the same God’, the Christian always says to the Jew and the Jew never to the Christian. The Jew knows that he does not worship the Christ-God but the Christian orphan needs to worship the God of Israel and so, his standard gambit rolls easily and thoughtlessly from his lips. It is a strictly unilateral affirmation, limited to making a claim on the God of Israel…” If the Christian doesn’t know the difference, the Jew does!
In Hebrews, having quoted Jeremiah (31:31-34) where God promised to make a new covenant, the writer said: “In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away” (Heb. 8:13). In the day God promised Israel, to make a new covenant, he made the first old; thus, he made way for the second covenant! A Christian is made by the New Covenant, and is not a “Judeo-Christian,” but a Christian! He is not part Jew and part Christian, but 100 precent Christian, or he is not Christian at all.

— Frank R. Williams

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