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

— Frank R. Williams

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

— Frank R. Williams

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

— Frank R. Williams

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

— Frank R. Williams

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

— Frank R. Williams

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

— Frank R. Williams

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

— Frank R. Williams

It must be understood that some laws are universal truths. In Genesis God gave the law of kind; in that he said: “And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good”(Gen.1:12) . We depend on this law; otherwise, the farmer would have no idea what kind of fruit might be the result of planting an apple seed. Without the law of kind, the farmer would have to wait for the seed he planted to produce fruit to know what to expect from the tree which grew from the planted seed. Look at it this way, suppose the world was in need of corn, but without the law of kind, the farmer would never know if he was going to help the world’s need for corn by the seed he planted. The seed might produce beans while the world was overrun with beans.
It is a truth; the gospel of Christ produces only Christians and the only Christians! The gospel of Christ is the spiritual seed of God; hear Peter just here: “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. (24) … (25) But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you” (1 Pet. 1:23-25). Notice the “incorruptible” seed is “the word of God,” which equals “the gospel” preached unto you. So, the seed of God produces only children of God and the only children of God. It is the law of kind at work in the spiritual realm. If we can understand this truth in the physical realm, then, we should be able to understand in the spiritual realm! So, it is truth or nothing in the area of how a child of God is produced.
The above helps us see why Jesus said to the apostles: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). The gospel of Christ is the only word that has the ability to save the lost. But, the gospel is the only word that has the ability to bring forth a child of God! If one is “born again” of the incorruptible “seed,” then, he is saved and he is a child of God. As the “seed” brings forth after its own kind; therefore, what the gospel produces is a child of God. The gospel is God’s spiritual seed! How did you think you could become a child of God? Surely it was not without the gospel; the seed of God. It is truth or nothing!
This brings us to a natural question: “Will just any teaching bring forth fellowship with God?” If you read the above with any thought at all, you should know the answer to the question. Hear John as he addressed this subject: “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). Notice that John uses the word “abideth” two times in these few words. The Greek word is “meno” and means among other things, “to continue to be present.” These words express “fellowship,” do they not? So, the person who “abideth not in the doctrine – teaching – of Christ” is a person who does not “continue to be present” with the teaching of Christ. Now, the same thing is true with God and Christ; for John wrote: “He that abideth – continues to be present – in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.” One could translate this verse like this: “Whosoever transgresseth, and does not continue to be present in the teaching of Christ, has no fellowship with God. He that continues to be present in the teaching of Christ, he hath fellowship with the Father and the Son.” Though this would not be a word for word translation, it fully expresses John. It is the truth or nothing!
So, just how important is “the teaching of Christ?” It is the only teaching that brings about fellowship with the Father and the Son. If, if we have fellowship with the Father, then, we are a child of God! “The teaching of Christ” is simply another way of expressing “the word of God,” which is the “seed” of God and it only produces a child of God and the only children of God!
Friends, what do you say about “truth or nothing?” In this series of articles, it has been the objective to bring before your eyes the importance of the truth as nothing else will do what truth can. It can, it has the ability, to save your soul and nothing else has such ability. Therefore, “And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified” (Acts 20:32). Yes my friends, it is “truth or nothing!” Just as my beloved aunt said, “It will marriage or nothing,” so we must say, “It is truth, or nothing!”

— Frank R. Williams.

The importance of “the truth” may be seen in Solomon’s words: “Buy the truth, and sell it not; ..” Whatever you may be thinking of buying, if it cost you “the truth;” don’t do it, but hold on to “the truth!” You see, “the truth” can make you free from “the wages of sin” (Rom. 6:23). It is just as Jesus said: “ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32). To know in our case requires many hours of study; but it first starts with honesty! Truth never gets into the heart/mind that is not honest! Thus, it is “truth or nothing!”
Have you ever noticed the words which Solomon followed with, “buy the truth, and sell it not?” They are very important to the subject! The words are: wisdom, instruction, and understanding. Solomon is saying, “Buy wisdom, and sell it not;” “buy instruction, and sell it not; and “buy understanding, and sell it not.” Therefore, Solomon is telling us, wisdom, instruction, and understanding, travel in the same container as “the truth.” Solomon also wrote: “For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding” (Pro. 2:6). The inspired word, which comes from the mouth of the LORD, is wisdom, knowledge, instruction, and understanding. In the New Testament, Paul wrote: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (17) That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Though the words are different, they stand together. So, you cannot truthfully separate: wisdom, instruction, knowledge, and understanding, from “the truth.” Therefore, it is “truth or nothing!”
Every teaching, which is not “the teaching of Christ,” is not “the truth!” Not one of these “teachings” that are not “the teaching of Christ” has the ability to bring salvation to the lost soul. Yes, there are many such teachings; as each denomination has its own teaching and in this case, the plural teachings can never be one. Yet, Paul wrote there is “one faith” (Eph. 4:5). In the denominations, there are just as many teachings as there are denominations. So you are asking, “How do you know this?” If two denominational churches had the same teaching, they would not be two, but one. The teaching is identified by the name of the denominational church. Many of these denominational churches wear the name of the teaching, or a word that identifies them with a teaching fostered by a man. Here is a good time to recall the words of the apostle Paul: “Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. (13) Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?” (I Cor. 1:12-13). Clearly wearing the name of any other than that of Christ is commended! So, how do you answer the question: “What are you religiously?” Go ahead and identify yourself!
Friends, why would you desire to wear any name, but Christ? It is manifestly clear, that no one but Christ was crucified for you. At the same time, if you were baptized into another, go ahead and honestly wear the name! However, it must be known, that Peter said, speaking of Jesus: “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). So, to wear the name, or to be identified with the teaching of anyone, but Christ, is to be lost! John, as referred to above, pointed out that there is no fellowship with God and Christ, but to abide in “the teaching of Christ.” The word of God’s grace, by which so many desire to be justified, but refuse to abide in the “one faith!”
Here is a simple test. So you are determined that the teaching you believe in and put your salvation in, is “the teaching of Christ.” What does this teaching say about salvation and baptism? Teaching after teaching says that baptism has nothing, is not necessary, to salvation, but Peter wrote, after pointing out that Noah was saved by water: “The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us, …” (1 Pet. 3:21). Of course, you do not believe these words! Commentary after commentary says something like: “As with any single verse or passage, we discern what it teaches by first filtering it through what we know the Bible teaches on the subject at hand. In the case of baptism and salvation, the Bible is clear that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works of any kind, including baptism (Ephesians 2:8-9). So, any interpretation which comes to the conclusion that baptism, or any other act, is necessary for salvation, is a faulty interpretation.”
Friends, first the New Testament never refers to baptism as a work. It is an act of obedience; these words will clarify the necessity of obeying: “And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him” (Heb. 5:9). So, did Jesus state that baptism stands before being saved? Here is what he said: “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark 16:16). Here we could quote from the same writer above, but space will not allow it just now. Needless to say, the writer illogically tries to prove what Jesus said was not, “he that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” Remember, it is “truth or nothing” that saves!

— Frank R. Williams