Friday, December 11, 2009

UpDate

My Friends, I Would Like to Welcome you, as My Honor Guest to What I have Called The Place Of "Food For Thought"

For Its my Hope and Prayer, that you will take a minute out, to review some of the topics that I have chosen to Write On! For In them my friends I Pray you will gain much knowledge, and wisdom. I Pray also you may find it necessary to perhaps share them with others. For I've been told that much knowledge and wisdom is gained, when they are read in the order that I published them.

I Feel truly blessed, and honored am very grateful to you, for your visit. Please be sure to ask any question, or make any comments that your thinking as a result of these "Food For Thoughts".

I Assure you, much prayer, and time, has been placed on my writings, prior to me sharing them with you. For In them you will just get the Truth, the Whole Truth, and Nothing But the Truth from The Word of God.

For I will be "Writing" additional "Food For Thoughts" Weekly for This Site, (Lord Willing)! Feel Free to Come back and visit at every opportunity.

It's My Prayer and Hope you will truly Gain From These Efforts, and too, share them with Loved Ones, and thus invest and show support in the future of this Lord's Work, here on our site.


And Finally, my friends, If there is a subject matter, or topic that is of concern to you, that you would like to know more about from God's Word, I would like to encourage you, to make me aware of it, in so that I may prepare a lesson (Food For Thought) on it, for you! Feel Free and spend a moment if u will, reading the comments listed below from others such as yourself.

Glad Your Here!

Thank You Much!

Jim

How To Study The Bible (Part III)

Study Diligently:


My friends, There are no short cuts to learning, And this fact comes from a "Slow Learner" (Me). Who Got kicked out of kindergarden, because I refused to play at recess, (Jim Doesnt Play) and Flunked the 3rd Grade, And drank the ink, from my pen, And received a "F" in my typing class, and in my Biology class, and in my chemistry class, and in my Math classes, And, And, And... You get my Point!




Whether a book of science, history or religion, it can only be comprehended by unyielding mental industry. The Bible is no exception!

Moses enjoined Israel: " And these words, which I command thee ths day, shall be upon thy heart; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto they children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thy house, and when thy walkest by the way, and when thou liest down and when thou risest up" (Deut: 6:6,7).

God commanded Joshua: "This book of the law shall not depart out of they mouth, but thous shalt meditate there-on day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein" (Josh. 1:8)

For "A fourth part of the day Ezra read in the book, in the law of God distinctly: and they gave the sense so that they understood the reading" (Neh: 9:3; 8:8).

The Psalmist declared: "And on his aw doth he meditate day and night" (1:2); "Oh how love I thy law: it is my meditation all the day" (119:97); "I have more understanding than all my teachers for thy testimonies are my meditation" (119:99). Paul charge Timothy: "Til I come, give heed to reading, to exhortation, to teaching" (1 Tim: 4:13).

My friends, The Bible does not accomplish its purpose by its mere presence like an amulet, a charm, a fetish. It is not to be used as the supersitious use a horse-shoe, a rabbit's foot, a medicine bag, a relic or a rosary, or even a crucifix.

When a wanderer is in a desert, my friends, he locates a fountain of water, well he must drink of it as well as find it, right? if he is to quench his thirst. Even so, one who possesses a Bible must receive the implanted or engrafted Word if it is to save his soul. (James 1:21).
Only thru diligent study can this be achieved. Trust Me, I Know! Remember, this comes from the "Slow Leaner" "Me"!

Study Methodically:


My friends, I've found it, to be wise, to have a definite, workable, sound study plan, and stick to it. Avoid "Desultory Reading", a chapter or verse here or there. Study all of the Bible, not just your favorite book or verses.

It is best to begin with an overall survey of the Bible. Make an outline of prominent persons and events, from beginning to end, in a chronological order.. Be sure to keep in mind the scheme of redemption, which is the Bible's central theme, and notice how it gradually unfolds, thru out.

After obtaining a good bird's eye view of the Bible you will then be prepard to study each book chapter by chapter. Learn something of the author, time and circumstances of writing, and purpose of the book. Jot down the main points in each chapter. Refer to any accounts of the same events that may be recorded in another book.

When a thorough chapter by chapter study has been completed it is good to make a careful paragraph by paragraph, and then a verse by verse, study of each book. This is especially true of the New Testament. (Stay organized) !

Another method is to study subjects or topics. Gather all that the Bible says on a particular subject. It could be a person, command, principle or ordinance. Use a reference Bible or concordance. (They come in real handy)
Outline your findings, listing each item under its proper heading. This will give a comprenhensive analysis of each topic studied.

Underline key passages for easy reference. Memorize those verse that are most frequently used. Practice expressing in your own words(out loud) what you have just learned.


Regard The Divisions Of The Bible:


The major division of the Bible is between the Old Testament and the New Testament. There are 39 books in the Old Testament Begining with the book of Genesis, and ending with the book of Malachi. And there are 27 books in the New Testament Begining with the Book of Matthew, and ending with the Book of Revelation. There were 40 different writers, over a 1500 year period.

The Jews divided their Testament into the Pentateuch or (Law), (5 books of Moses); then the Prophets: (historic and prophetic books) and then the Psalms or simply the "writings". (5 poetical books, plus Ruth, Lamentations, Daniel, Esther , Ezra, Nehemiah and Chronicles). Jesus recognized this divison (Luke 24:44)

The Old Testament embraces two dispensations: The Patriarchal, and The Mosaic. The patriarchal age is so-called because in it family worship was conducted under the leadership of the Chief Father or patriarch.

During this period, which began at creation, God dealt "Directly" with man. He promised to bless all families of the earth through Abraham's seed (Gen. 12:3; 22:18). This was fulfilled in Christ (Gal: 3:8, 16).

Four hundred and thirty years(430) after this promise God gave unto the children of Israel at Mount Sinai, a law through Moses, or also known, and the "Law" of Moses: (Gal:3:17). Because of transgressions it was added to the promise "Til the seed should come" (v 19). None are any longer under the Law of Moses. (v.24, 25; Eph. 2:14-18; Col: 2:14ff-17; Rom.7:4, 6; Heb. 7:12; 10:9) It was never given to Gentiles as such, only fleshy Israel (Deut. 4:8; 5: 1-3; Neh. 9:13, 14; Rom:2:14).

The New Testament is not like the Old Testament. (Jer. 31:31ff-34). It was not added to anything. (John 1:17). Under it we have not only a new covenant (Heb: 8: 6-13) but also a new mediator (Christ) (1 Tim. 2:15), A New Church, (Matt: 16:18) called the Church of Christ Rom: 16:16, and a New promise (Acts 2:38) Christ only Built One Church..HIS!

For there are nearly over 1500 Man Made denominational churches in the world today. None authorize or approve by God or Christ, in there Written Word to Man. For Foolish Man, chose to "Add too, and Take Away" God's Word. For God's Word Was Not enough for them, they needed to create there own creed books/by-laws, and other Man Made Books, and so-forth, thus rebelling against God, and Christ Himself. (sad) For No Where in God's Word are they authorized to exists. But Man being Man, continues to rebel against God's Word. Oh Foolish Man. Good news to that, Heaven Wont Be to Crowded.

Although we are not under The Law, of Moses, we may profit much from studying it and encourage to do so in the New Testament: For Paul declared that "These things happened unto them by way of example; and they were written for our learning" (1 Cor: 10:6, 11) (Rom. 15:4). It foreshadow Christ and the New Covenant (Luke 24:44; John 5:39; Col: 2:17; Heb. 10:1).

My friends, One cannot fully appreciate and comprehend the New Testament with some knowledge of the Old Testament. When One observes scriptures quoted, as thru my writing, what you are seeing: ie.. Matt: 6: 33, That is the name of the book then the chapter, then the verse.

Consider The Context

Webster. New 20th Cen Dictionary, defines Context: as to weave together. 1. The parts of a sentence, paragraph, discourse, etc. that occur just before and after a specified word or passage, and determine its exact meaning; as it is unfair to quote this remark out of its context. 2. The whole situation, background, or environment relevant to some happening or personality".

My friends, each book, chapter and verse should be studied in view of its own surroundings. A word, phrase or sentence taken out of its setting may appear to have a very different meaning. When examinded in it context the meaning should be evident.

Observe who is speaking. Was it God or Satan? If a man, was he inspired? If an uninspired person was he unbiased and truthful?

The Bible records the words of the devil and his agents as well as those of God and His messenger. The serpent said to Eve, "Ye shall not surely die" (Gen 3:4) Rabshakeh asserted that God could not deliver Jerusalem out of the hand of Assyria (2 Kings 18:19-35); and the Pharisees blasphemously accused Jesus of casting out demons "by Beelzebub the prince of the demons" (Matt: 12:24). What these said was untrue but it is a fact that they said it.

Next, see who is addressed. Did they live under the Law of Moses or the Law of Christ? Were they Jews or Gentiles; saints or sinners? Was the command or promise given to a particular persons or to all mankind?

God charged Israel, whom he had brought out of Egypt, to "Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy (Ex. 20:2, 8). They were to keep it thru out their generation as signs between them and God (Ex. 31: 12ff-17) This IS NOT a New Testament command. But some men/man even today doesnt Believe That! Oh Foolish Man.

Peter ordered Simon to "Repent" and pray for forgiveness (Acts 8:22). A careful study of the context will show that Simon like others in Samaria, had already Believed and were Baptized (v. 13, Mark 16:16). Peter's words, then, were directed to an "Erring Saint" rather than the "Alien Sinner".
God commanded Noah to build "An Ark of gopher wood" (Gen 6:14). No ones else was enjoined to do this. Jesus promised His apostles that they would "Be baptized in the Holy Spirit not many days hence" (Acts: 1:5). This promise does not apply to all disciples.

Next; Find out what is being discussed. What is the topic under consideration? The Roman letter will be more easily comprehended by one who is aware that Paul is seeking to show that salvaton for both Jew and Gentile is by the gospel of Christ, or by the "Law of Christ" and Not by the Law of Moses. ( Romans 1:16:17).


In Part IV: How To Study The Bible:

Accept All That is Given On Each Subject
Accept Only What is Given On Each Subject
Take The Bible For What It Says. (Dont "Add To" His Word, Nor "Take Away")
Use Common Sense
Grow In Understanding

Stay Tuned My Friends !

Jim

How To Study The Bible (Part II)

Desire To Do God's Will:


My friends, Truth will not be found by those who read the Bible, with no intention of followig its precepts. For a moment the precious seed reposes upon their hardened hearts only to be quickly shaken off. They may even erect a mental barrier against that which they do not wish to do. It is as difficult for such persons to see the Truth as it was for the prodigal son to see the blessings of his fathers' house.

Jesus said: "If any man willeth to do his will, he shall know of the teaching, whether, it is of God, or whether I speak from myself" (John 7:17)

Without this willingness one is unprepared to receive an understanding of God's Word. He may be reading to gain an academic familiarity with its contents but fail to comprehend its true origin and prupose. Like those described by Paul, he is "ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth" (2 Tim 3:7).

There is today a wide-spread indifference about divine authority. Many feel that it is good to do what God has commanded but not essential. Others, like Balaam, are ready to do His Will as long as it pleases them. It matters not, they think, whether one does exactly what God appointed. They labor under the misconception that He will accept them while they do as they wish. Those who entertain such views can not possible understand the scriptures.

Have An Open Mind


An open mind is an honest heart (Luke 8:15) " One that is receptive to all the words of this Life" (Acts 5:20). This does not mean that one should be gullible or even credulous, but that he be willing to consider fairly that which is read. Like the noble Bereans he ought to receive, "The Word with all readiness of mind, examining the scriptures Daily, wheter these things were so". (Acts 17:11)

My friends, It is very difficult to be altogether unbiased in everything. This is expecially true in religious matters. Many approach the Bible with their minds made up. Their thinking is colored by the influence of parents, friends, religious teachers or some human creed book. As a result they often fail to see what is in a passage because it is contrary to what they have believed; or they read their opinion into a passage because it is contrary to what they have believed; or they read their opinion into a passage even though it is not there. Some have even read plain declarations and then replied, "Well it says it but I still dont believe it". Such closed-mindedness is prejudice and prejudice is sin. (Proverbs 18:13) And Sin separates us from God.

No Man would be so foolish as to asert that he knows everything, to include this writer. However; If one chooses to closes his mind to all that does not agree with what he has learned, then he will never know any more than what he knows, and the very thing that he refuses to learn maybe what he really needs.

The Jews of Jesus' day furnish a very vivid illustration of closed-minds. "And unto them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, "which saith by hearing ye shall hear and shall in no wise understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall in no wise perceive: for this peoples heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest haply they should perceive with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand that their heart, and should turn again, and I should heal them" (Matt: 13:14ff) Cornelius and the eunuch, like the Bereans, had open minds. (Acts 10:33; 8:31)

Study For The Right Motive


Jesus accused certain Jews of seeking him "Not because ye saw signs, but because ye ate of the loaves, and were filled" (John 6:26). They followed from wrong motives and were unable to discern the true bread out of the heaven. For the smae reason many now fail to understand the scriptures which they read.

Skeptics search the Bible to find mistakes, and inconsistencies but rarely for "Truth". Invariably they find, to their own satisfaction, that for which they were looking. If they would study correctly it would become evident that the apparent contradictions were due to their own lack of perception.

Many read the Bible to prove what they already believe. Like the skeptic, they succeed by finding in nearly every word and sentence what appears to them to be that proof. We should recognize that the Bible is not a book of proofs for doctrines but is itself the doctrine of God, to Foolish Man. It should be studied to ascertain God's will for Man, Not to try to find our own views therein.

Others when questioned about a practice run to the Bible in an effort to justify it. They did not begin the practice because the Bible taught it, but began it, and then searched for a passage that could be construed as approval. This attitude has blinded so many to the Truth.

Some read the Bible to find that which is quaint or novel. They delight in quoting scripture and reciting genealogies. Such persons wish to be known as of of the great learning. This thirst for distinction and exaltation will hinder one from seeing the plain simple gospel message.

For they will even be foolish enough to refer to themselves as a "Prophet"! Jesus warned against such types. "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A Good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down, and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them. Not everyone who says to Me, "Lord, Lord", shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in Heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, "Lord, Lord< have we not prophesied in Your Name, cast out demons in Your Name, and done many wonders in Your Name"? And then I will declare to them, "I NEVER knew you, DEPART from Me, you who practice lawlessness!". (Matt 7:15-23)

If one's motive in Bible study is to know God's Will that he may do all things commanded then it becomes easier to understand.


In Part III Of How To Study The Bible:
I Will Be Talking About:

Study Diligently
Study Methodically
Regards The Divisions Of The Bible
Consider The Context.


Stay Tuned My Friends
Jim

Thursday, December 10, 2009

How To Study The Bible (Part l)

I Thank God Always, for allowing me the opportunity to share His Word, and His Ways, to Man. For recently I was blessed to have had the privilige to conduct "Personal Work" for Him, in the country of South Africa. Which I am in the midst of winding down, as I prepare this "Food For Thought"!

For I have had the privilge of working with all age groups, in there country. I had recieved numerous request from all of them and too, received many a fine personal and special, and heart warming, touching, emails from them. For many had asked me, "Mr Jim, How do we study God's Word, the Bible?" That question from them just pricked my heart!

But to be honest, at that moment, I could not help but to hear my Big Brothers's Words ringing (loudly) thru my ears, and something I'll never forget, and will always be grateful to Him, for that. For he said, in a kind loving gentle caring, (Loud) manner, and yes too, of course some of his well seasoned, (salt and pepper) type of his favorite metaphors that only he can sprinkle on a point he's attempting to stress or make known.

However; I havent gotten His permission to use them here, So now I Thank God, I dont have too! For He said, in the "Edited Editon" ; "Jim, how many times do I have to Tell You, Read The Book"! (Just Loved How He Said That). For my friends I once again Thanked God, for the wisdom, of not responding to the South Africans question with that answer.(Sorry Big Brother, Couldnt Quote You)

Thus I prepared a lesson for them, there in South Africa, as a result of there willingness to learn what God would have them to do, in order to become a New Testament Christian and be saved, and yes too, Pleasing to Him. So now too my friends, I feel inclined to share it with you!


How To Study The Bible:


My Friends, God speaks to men, in the Bible. It is a book of divine instruction. In it alone man's greatest questions are answered: "Who Am I?" "Why am I here?" "Where am I going?" For no other book reveals the truth about God, explains the origin of man, diagnoses the problem of sin, and shows the only way of salvation unto eternal life.

Man's eternal destiny depends, upon his Obedience to God and His Words. "And this is life Eternal, that they should know thee, the only true God, and him whom thou didst, send, even Jesus Christ". (John 17:3). "Not every one that said unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father who is in heaven".(Matt 7:21). "Fear God, and keep His commandments; for this is the whole duty of Man." (Eccl. 12:13)

My friends, no-one, can OBEY, that which he does not understand nor perceive what he has not considered. In order for man to know God's will he must study His Word. The importance of Bible Study can not be emphasized enough, and I would like to encourage you, my friend, to begin to do just that. For Remember always my Friend, when you choose to Study God's Word(Bible), you are literally spending time with Him. Yes, One on One, Just You and Him! What better company can you choose than being with Him?

A great many who read the Bible my friends do not study it. They open it at random, hastily read a chapter, usually with little thought, and then do not look at it again for weeks. It is not suprising to hear such persons complain, "I cant get anything out of the Bible". (Daaa)!

If this precious book is ever to be understood, rules and principles used in the study of other books must be observed, while studying it. The following a basic rules if applied, will enable anyone, to include Me the (Slow Learner) to better understand the Word of God.

Accept The Bible
As The Word Of God

My friends, this is not to say that an infidel cannot know anything revealed in God's Word. This he must do to be save. (John 8:32, 24;20:31). Yet one who regards the Bible as a book of myths and inaccuracies is not likely to make a thorough investigation of its teaching. He may read it out of mere curiosity or to find fault, but hardly with a design to understand.
The greater one's faith the more diligent will be his search for understanding of this divine message. When he accepts it "as it is in truth, the word of God" (1 Thess: 2:13, he will be able to see it more clearly.

Expect To Understand The Bible

"Attitude is Everything"

Many regard the Bible as a sealed book, beyond the comprehension of an average person. (Wrong)!!!! They suppose that one must have a special gift from God, before he can unravel, its "dark sayings" (NOT)!!! Usually the "Clergy" reserve for themselves this right to interpret the scriptures for others. (example of the arrogance of Foolish Man). In this way they they destroy confidence in the Bible and place it, in themselves.

The Bible is a revelation from God. Since it is a revelation it is designed to be understood. If it is unintelligible then,it is no revelation at all. The Bible was given to men through men, in human language, By God. The same familiar words were employed as were used to communicate with one another in other matters. Since they understood words spoken or written by "uninspired" men, then surely they could understand the same words when used by "Inspired" men! (Daaa)!

God's commandments have always been expressed in words that men could understand. Adam and Eve knew that they were not to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. They were aware of the penalty for disobedience. (Gen. 2:17; 3:3). Noah understood and did all that God commanded him concerning the ark. (Gen: 6:22). Likewise, Abraham, Moses, David, and others understood fully the Word of God.

Jesus preached in the synagogues, the temple, in the market places, by the sea and on a mountain; and the common people heard him gladly. (Mark 12:37). There was no one to interpret His words for the masses.

Paul's letter were addressed to "all the saints" at a particular place. (Rom 1:7; Eph 1:1, Phil. 1:1, Col: 1:2). The epistle to Thessalonica was to "Be read unto all the brethren" (1 Thess: 5:27). He charged the Chruch of Christ at Colossae: "And when this epistle hath been read amoung you, cause that it be read also in the Chruch of Christ of Laodiceans; and that ye also read the epistle from Laodicea (Col 4:16). . The fact that these letters were both written and read to all the brethren shows that they were intended to be understood by all. (Dont tell the Catholics that though!)

Some think that the Bible itself teaches that the scriptures can not be understood. Paul does refer to the many blessings of the Gospel of Christ, prior to their being revealed, as a mystery. "How that by revelation was made known unto me, the mystery, as I wrote before in few words, whereby, when ye read, ye can perceive my understanding in the mystery of Christ; which in other generations was not make known unto the sons of Men".. (Eph 3: 3-5). He then added: "Unto me... was this grace given to preach unto the Gentiles, the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men SEE what is the dispensation of the mystery which for ages, hath been hid in God"(vs. 8, 9) That which was a mystery has now been revealed and men can see it. The Bible nowhere suggest that what has been reveal, cannot be understood: (No-Where)! My friends, we are plainly told to "understand the will of the Lord" (Eph 5:17) .. (Dont tell the Catholics that, ok?)

Love The Truth

Paul wrote : "That some were perishing because they received Not the Love of the Truth, that they might be saved" (2 Thess 2:10). If one is to be saved he must Love the Truth.

That which one loves, he seeks and, if he can, obtains. If he hungers and thirsts after righteousness he shall be filled" (Matt: 5:6) If her preferes error to truth that is what he will pursue and find. "And for this cause God sendeth them a working of error, that they should believe a like; that they might be judged who believe not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness" (2 Thess. 2:11, 12).

One who love the Truth will accept it no matter where it is found or how much it differs from what he and those about him have believed. To Him nothing is more important than Truth (cf. Prov 23:23). He had rather be right than consistent. He desires the approval of God above the plaudits of men. He is ready to "Let God be true, but every man a liar" (Romans 3:4).

In Part II of How to Study The Bible:
I Will Be Discussing:

Desire to Do God's Will
Have An Open Mind
Study for the Right Motive

In Part III of How to Study The Bible:
I Will Be Discussing:

Study Diligently
Study Methodically
Regard the Divisions of the Bible
Consider the Context

In My Final "Food For Thoughts" (Conclusion)
I Will Be Discussing:

Accept All That is Given On Each Subject.
Accept Only What Is Given On Each Subject
Take The Bible For What It Says. (Dont Add To His Word Nor Take From It)
Use Common Sense
Grow In Understanding.

Stay Tune My Friends,

Jim

Pray And Try Again

REMEMBER ALWAYS My Friends;


Life is a long and bumpy road.
We each carry our troubles, like a heavy load.
There are many hard turns and some dead ends.
But whenever we're stuck, We must Pray, and Try Again.

No One's got an easy ride.
But failure can be pushed aside.
When we give up hope nothing good can happen.
So, when all seems lost, Remember my friend, you must Pray, and Try Again.

You can't have a meal, if you dont sit at a table.
You wont learn the moral, if u dont read the fable.
You cant take control, if you are plagued by inaction.
And you wont overcome loss, if you dont Pray and Try Again.

When the coins in the air, if you dont pick heads or tails,
Having not made a choice, you are bound to Fail.
But if you choose wrong, you can always still Win,
Because on the next flip my friend, you cant still Pray, and Try Again.

Those who Succeed seem to have it made.
Basking in the sunshine or lying in the shade.
But they've been down too, my friend, and it was just then
That they picked themselves up, so they could Pray, and Try Again.

So, my friends, when your spirit is Weak and you need to Cry
And you want to be Happy, but you have to Sigh.
When things seem bleakest, that's the time my freind, when
you MUST shrug it all off, and then just Pray, and Try, Try, Again!

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Is The Bible From God or Men (Conclusion)

EXTERNAL EVIDENCES:


Influence: My friends, the teaching of the Bible "Always" Enobles, Elevates, and Purifies. There is a universally accepted principle stated by Christ which can be applied to the Scriptures: "By their fruits ye shall know them" (Matt: 7:16). Think of the fruit the Bible has borne and is bearing today. Whever this Book has gone, civilization has been lifted to a higher plane. It has made better husbands and wives, better sons and daughters, better employees and employers, better neighbors and nations.

Its "Truth" sweetens the home, exalts womanhood, sanctifies childhood, and redeems man. The spirit of this Book is the spirit of Love, Kindness, and Goodwill. Without the Bible's influence for good, our world would be a tragic place in which to live. Surely this influence does not come from a source which is itself a collection of false claims and fables.

My frineds, some have claimed, and still do, even today, that human culture, philosophy, and science are better for man than the Bible.. If so, the map of the world should show it. But when one looks at the history of the nations, he sees that "Human Wisdom" Fails, to purify and build up the morals of the people. Look where the Word of God has gone, been loved and "Obeyed", and there we find the noblest men, the purest women, the greatest liberty, and the best government. Especially, do we see woman, so often the degraded beast of burden, or loved and honored as mother, wife, sister, or daughter.

My friends, lets name the nations of the earth that have been more advanced than others, such as America and Great Britain. There one would fine an open Bible and a ministry that upheld the Christ in all of His glory and excellence of character.

Now name the countries of the world where the people have long been "Half Enlightened", such as China, North Korea, India, South Africa, and Russia. There one will find that the Bible is being either not read, or understood, or even mis-applied, or even in some cases not allowed. Think of the large portions of the earth now in darkness of sin and paganism. There the Word of God is not being read, loved or "Obeyed" and often times misapplied, thus teaching "Error" by the people. Which The Lord warned Man, against such practices.

However as we've seen thru out the world, Man being Made full of Pride, and being "Puffed Up" and too, being foolish, continues to try to "Add To" and "Take Away" From the Word of God! And Man does so, at there own eternal peril, along with all those that follow such false and foolish ways.

The Bible contains the only teaching that can lead mankind to the highest forms of conduct. No height of worldly wisdom and culture can purify the heart and make people what they ought to be. The Bible is worth more to man's spiritual progress and the happiness of the human family than all other books that have ever been written; it has done more to change man's nature for good than all the philosophies of men.

My Friends, every "Baby Step" away from the moral teaching of this Book is in essence a "Baby Step", not forward, but backwards, to materialism, animalism, and barbarism. For he who tries to lessen the influence of the Bible over the nations and of families, are an "Enemy" of God, in this writers subjective view!

Further, any nation on the face of God's earth that neglects teaching the Bible to her children, or who foolishly chooses to "Add To" or "Take Away" from what God haith said, (As is largely being done in America today) will sooner or later reap the horrible results of it. (Eternal punishment).

Example: My Freinds, Is Sin, now legal, in America?(homosexuality).
Is it now illegal in America to point out sin? Are your children being Forced to accept sin as thee Norm? Do you know any parents in America, that now encourages Sin, to there Children and GrandChildren? And choose to turn their backs to what God hath said!?(Live with those of thee opposite sex outside of marriage).

Hence, the very teaching itself is proof of the Bible's divine origin, and we dont hesitate to say that we believe the Bible "IS THE WORD OF GOD" because of the great good it has done and continues to do thru out the world, when read and "Obeyed"!


INDESTRUCTIBILITY:


My friends, the Bible has been in the world in its complete form now for almost two thousand years, yet it is unlike all other books in that it has not become obsolete. It is today more highly respected and more widely printed and sold than any book in all the world. It has been translated into more languages than any other book.. Books, like men, are born, have their day, die, and are soon forgotten. They were once useful, but better books have taken their place and they have become outdated. Not so with the Bible. Age has failed to affect its power; as always, it vibrates with life. (Hebrews 4:12; Romans 1:16).

The Bible has always been fiercely attacked by those foolish men who do not wish to obey it, but it has withstood its furious foes and false friends. Never has there been a book like the Bible that has incurred the hatred of man. It has been the anvil on which many a hammer has been worn out. It has passed through many fiery trials in its course of history as foolish men have attempt to destroy, and "Add To", and "Take Away" from what it says.

For there are now over 1500 Man Made denominational churches thru out the world, None, mind You, are to be found in the Word Of God. Christ built One Church, His! Period! (Matt 16:18, Romans 16:16:)

For Example, the Roman Emperor Diocletian in A.D. 303 issued an edict to destroy the Bible. He thought he had accomplished his goal! But twenty five years later Constantine, the new emperor, commissioned fifty copies of the Bible to be prepared at government expense. Voltaire, the French infidel, in 1776 predicted that in one hundred years the Bible would be lost. But about twenty five years after his death the British and Foreighn Bible Society was founded, and this one Society alone has given to the world millions of copies of the Bible in several hundred different languages. One hundread years later, Voltaire's own printing press, on which his infidelic literature had been printed, was used to print Bibles. The very house in which he had lived was use as a storage room for the Word of God ! Thomas Jefferson, in his book on "Western Virginia", published about the time of Voltaire's death, predicted that fifty years from then there would not be a Bible in America unless found in some curiosity shop.

Likewise, Thomas Paine, in his book "The Age of Reason", predicted the end of the Bible. These men, too, have gone the way of all men of the flesh, but the Word of God still lives. The American Bible Society in New York City has, for many years, been printing and distributing millions of copies of the Bible and portions of God's Word all over America.

Today it would be hard to find a home in the United States where there is not at least one copy of the Scriptures. Also, Robert G. Ingersoll (1833-1899), another infidel in America, highly criticized the Bible. He gave lectures on the "Mistakes of Moses." Today we can turn to the books of Moses and learn of the "Mistakes of Ingersoll"!.

Indeed, my friends, a relentless warfare has for centuries been waged against the Bible, by foolish man. Yet in spite of what these and many others have done in their attacks to destroy it, the Bible is still here. After all the storms of persecution that have been and are hurled against it by atheists, infidels, and higher critics, it lives! God has providentially preserved His Book through all the centuries.

Jesus once said, "Heaven and Earth shall pass away, but My Words, shall NOT pass away" (Matt:24:35). Peter wrote: "The Word of God... Liveth and Abideth Forever." (1 Peter: 1: 23-25). Critics have come and gone, nations have been born and passed away since the Bible was written, but it still stands! The Bible will live to the end of time. Nothing can destroy it, though foolish man will continue to attempt to "Add to", and "Take Away" from it. All the power that could be brought to bear to blot it from the earth has benn tried, and yet it survies. The poet has beautifully expressed this truth in these words:

" Century follows century----There it stands.
Empires rise and fall and are forgotten, There it stands!
Atheists rail against it, There it stands!
Agnostics smile cynically. There it stands!
Profane prayerless punsters caricature it. There it stands!
Unbelief abandons it. There it stands!
Higher critics deny its claim to inspiration. There it stands!
The Flames are kindled against it. There it stands!
The tooth of time gnaws but makes no dent in it. There is stands!
Infidels predict its abandonment. There it stands!
THE WORD OF GOD, WHICH LIVETH AND ABIDETH FOREVER.
(A.Z. Conrad).


CONCLUSION:


These are some of the indisputable proofs that the Bible is the infallible Word, of the Living God: (I) Inerrancy, (2) Fulfilled prophecies.(3)Scientific accuracy.(4)Miracles. (5) High moral and ethical teaching.(6)Great influence for good.(7) Indestructibility.

My Friends, since the Bible is Perfect, Complete, Infallible, and an inerrant Revelation from God to man, needing no Revision, we should Love and Obey its precepts, and NOT, "Add to" or "Take Away" from it. As Foolish man, continues to do, even til today. 1500 Man Made Churches in the world, and growing, None authorized or approved by God, in His Written to to Man.

God alone knows what is right for man, and the Bible is just as relevant to people today as it was in the first century. It is a guide for all men and for all time.

The inspired Scriptures are able to furnish us completely "unto all good works." (2 Tim: 3:17; cf. 2 Peter 1:3) The Bible is our only authoritative rule of faith and conduct, the only rightful creed and book of discipline for the church, the only basis of unity which the Lord has authorized, the only Book that reveals God's plan of human redemption through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 3:23; John 3:16), and the only Book that will judge us in the last day (John 12:48; Revelation 20: 11-13; 2 Corinthians 5:10).

My Friends, not only does the Bible reveal man's origin, nature, and duty, it is the only telescope that reveals the world beyond the grave. We all know that we face imminent departure from this life, but what then?

Scripture declares that this life is but the morning of existence. In John's apocalyptic vision we have a picture of man, redeemed by the blood of the Lamb, and of Heaven, the eternal home of the soul (Revelation 7: 9-17); chapters 21 and 22).

My Friends, If our confidence in the Bible as a divine Book is destroyed, then the future we must face is all darkness; we would have no hope! For only in the words of Scripture are to be found the message of "Life and Immortality" (2 Tim: 1:10; cf. Psalm 23).

Therefore, its believe that no group of men, unaided by a higher power, could have written the Bible, for man cannot write such a perfect book. The Bible is, without exception, the world's most wonderful Book (Psalms 119:129). It is preminently the "Book of Books", the one Book forever outshining all other books in the literary firmament, as the sun outshines all planets that move in their orbits. If we my friends will respect and "Obey" its commands, some sweet day heaven will be our home.

"This old Book conatins the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its histories are true, its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you.

It is the traveler's map, the pilgrim's staff, the sailor's compass, the soldier's sword, and the Christians's charter. Here Paradise is restored, Heaven opened, and the gates of hell disclosed. Christ is its grand object, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. My friend, I would like to encourage you, to Read it slowly, Frequently, and Prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgement, and will be remembered forever! It involves the highest responsibilities, will reward the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents. (Author Unknown)

My Friends I would like to encourage you , to stay tune!

For I've been asked to share and prepare a "Food For Thought" (lesson) on the topic of "One's Feelings Are they a Safe Guide?


I Thank God Always, for His Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, and Brother Cotham for all that they've done, and continue to do, for all of Man.