Are Christians Under Grace Or Law?

Roger D. Campbell

Let us begin with some definitions: "Christian -- a follower of Christ (Acts 11:26; 26:28; 1 Peter 4:16). "Grace" -- unmerited favor. Thus, the grace of God means unmerited favor that comes from God. "Law" -- a rule of conduct or action. Let us now restate our question in different words: Are followers of Jesus obligated to follow some rule(s) of conduct or action, or do they simply receive God's unmerited favor and live by it? Is it possible that Christians are under both grace and law? What does the Bible say?

WHAT ABOUT JOHN 1:17?

"For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ." Sometimes people make false conclusions when they read this verse. For example, it is sometimes said that John 1:17 shows there was no grace before Christ came into the world. That is not true. Genesis 6:8 plainly says, "But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD." By walking by faith and with God (Heb. 11:7; Gen. 6:9), Noah found grace in the eyes of Jehovah. But that would be impossible if no grace was shown before the coming of Jesus. Later, when the law of Moses was in effect, it was written, "For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD will give grace and glory" (Psalm 84:11). Yes, the Lord was showing His grace even when the law of Moses was in effect. Thus, to claim that where there is law there can be no grace, or where there is grace there can be no law, is certainly a false idea.
"Truth came by Jesus Christ," but does this mean that there was no truth before Jesus came into the world? In Psalm 86:11 we read, "Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth." That was written about one thousand years before Jesus was born. We understand that full truth came through Jesus Christ (John 14:6), but it would be false to say that no truth at all was given to man before Jesus came.

ARE WE SAVED BY GRACE?

Yes! No person can earn his salvation. No one can say to the Lord, "You owe me salvation because of what I have done." No one who believes the Bible can doubt that we are saved by God's grace, for the Scriptures often speak of this truth. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God" (Eph. 2:8). "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men" (Titus 2:11). "But we see Jesus...that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man" (Heb. 2:9). Praise God for His marvelous grace which makes our salvation possible!
It really bothers me to hear some members of the church accuse faithful preachers and faithful congregations of not teaching about God's grace, or of saying that denominations understand better the Bible doctrine of grace more than we do. I deny the charge!

ARE WE SAVED BY GRACE ONLY?

Look closely. What is the difference between this question and the one asked in the heading of the previous section? That's right, the word "only." "Saved by grace" and "saved by grace only" are not the same. The Bible teaches we are saved by "grace," but it does not teach we are saved by "grace only." If we say that we are saved by grace "only," then that is 100% by grace, and the word "only" would exclude everything else. The theory of salvation by grace only contradicts Ephesians 2:8, which says, "For by grace are ye saved through faith." That verse shows that salvation comes as a result of grace plus faith. If salvation is by grace plus anything else, then it is false to say that salvation is by grace only. The Holy Spirit said, "Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus" (Rom. 3:24). Two chapters later it is written, "Therefore being justified by faith" (Rom. 5:1). Which is it? Is man justified by grace or by faith? By both! Thus, it is the doctrine of Satan to teach either that man is saved by "faith only" or by "grace only." Grace is God's part of our salvation and demonstrating faith is man's part.

ARE CHRISTIANS UNDER LAW?

That is, does God have a law for Christians to keep? Remember, we defined "law" as a rule of conduct or action. Suppose we say that Christians do not live under law. What would be the consequence of that? It would mean that it would be impossible for Christians to sin. How did we reach that conclusion? It is written, "Because the law worketh wrath; for where no law is there is no transgression" (Rom. 4:15). It is very simple: no law means no transgression. But, if do not sin, then we could truthfully claim that we do not sin. However that contradicts what is said in 1 John 1:8: "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." The Bible says that Christians sin. Sin is transgression of God's law (1 John 3:4). However, one cannot transgress a law to which he is not accountable. Thus, to say that Christians break God's law means that He has a law by which we must live. Yes, Christians are under law.
What is the law under which Christians live? It is not the law of Moses, for Jesus abolished that law by His death (Eph. 2:14,15). The law under which we live is called "the law of Christ." "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ" (Gal. 6:2). It is called "the perfect law of liberty." "But whosoever looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed" (James 1:25). So, blessed is one who looks into the perfect law of liberty and obeys it. This is very similar to what the Lord Jesus said: "Yea, rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it" (Luke 11:28). God's law is His Word, and for people today, that means His law is the New Testament. God's law is also called "the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus." This reference is found in Romans 8:2: "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." Notice also what the apostle Paul wrote: "To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law" (1 Cor. 9:21).
Do you still remember the main question to which we wanted to find an answer? The question was: "Are Christians under grace or law?" We have already shown that the Bible teaches that Christians are under BOTH grace and law. One can disagree with that conclusion if he chooses, but that is what the Bible teaches.

MUST CHRISTIANS OBEY?

Christ is the author of salvation. He is the author of salvation to those that obey Him (Heb. 5:9). Does that not sound like obedience is necessary in order to be saved? Jesus said, "Not every one that saith unto me Lord, Lord shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven" (Matt. 7:21). Does that not sound like doing the Father's will or obeying Him is a condition of entering the kingdom? Perhaps someone will say these passages apply only to what one must do in order to become a Christian, but after becoming a member of the church, obedience is not necessary.
Did not Jesus say to those who were already His apostles, "If ye love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15)? Was it not written to Christians, "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments, and his commandments are not grievous" (1 John 5:3)? Was it not written to Christians, "And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments" (1 John 2:3)? To Christians in Thessalonica the Holy Spirit said, "And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed" (2 Thess. 3:14). Do not all of these verses plainly show that in order to please God, Christians must obey His Word, that is, obey His commands? They surely do! I cannot understand why today some members of the church are so much against the idea of "keeping God's commands." Please tell me, if Jesus and His apostles talk about the necessity of keeping commands, then why is it bad for us to keep them?
We understand that even when we keep the Lord's commands, we are still "unprofitable servants" (Luke 17:10). But, that fact does not take away the necessity of obeying what the Lord commands us in His New Testament. With love from our whole heart we must obey the Lord Jesus. How do we obey Jesus? By obeying His commands. If we strive to do that, then some will call us legalists, command keepers, or keepers of the letter of the law. Please do not let such accusations hinder you from faithfully serving and obeying the Lord who died for you!
Are we under grace? Yes. Are we under law? Yes. Thank God for revealing His will to us in the Bible. May He bless you as you live for Him.
Church Of Christ
P.O. Box 828
Kiev 25206 .

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.

Guest Editorial... Make Up Your Mind

Charles Blair

It is time for people to make some hard choices. What do we want the church to be in the future?

How long does it take to make a decision? One might rightly conclude that it depends on the importance of the decision. The soul is the most valuable thing that any of us has in our possession (Matt. 16:26). Decisions which affect the outcome of the soul truly are important. Hence, why would we delay making a decision when our very souls hang in the balance?
Joshua, the good servant of the Lord, challenged Israel to make a decision (Joshua 24:15). In short, he told them to make up their minds about who they would serve. It had reached a point that the decision for God or against God needed to be made. The evidence is that as long as Joshua and the elders lived, Israel remained faithful to the promise they made on this day. It all began because the leader of the people made a decision for himself and his family. Others inspired by this effort did the same.
Elijah was preparing to do battle with the prophets of Baal. It was a battle for the minds of God's people. God would show His superiority over the false god of Baal. Before the battle was ever engaged, Elijah went to their hearts. He asked a very tough question. How long will ye halt between two opinions (1 Kings 18:21)? It is important to note that the people did not answer until after the contest was over. They needed to have aligned themselves with God before the battle, but they did not. When the soul is being fought for, decisions need to be made before it's too late.
We have some preachers who cannot make up their mind about where they stand. They move easily with whichever group they are with at the time. Such movement does not speak about taking a stand, rather, it indicates a person has not yet made up their mind where they are in their relationship with God. When one chooses to walk in the light, he of necessity must reprove the darkness (1 John 1:7; Eph. 5:11). Standing with the agents of darkness does not show an individual has made up his mind as of yet. Now is the time to make the right decision for the Lord in these matters.
However, not only preachers, but there are some congregations which cannot make up their minds either. They do not want error being taught in their pulpits, but will use their bulletins to announce workshops, meetings and lectureships where false teachers are working their wares. How long can they have it both ways? At some point, decisions need to and must be made. Where do we stand? Are we on the Lord's side (Exodus 32:26)? Congregations in this town (Indianapolis, Indiana) who continue to support Heartland are making up their mind. They are choosing, by their support of this event, departure from God.
It is time for people to make some hard choices. What do we want the church to be in the future? Do we want it to be a church where women preach, choruses sing in worship, clapping and losing control of one's spirit and emotions, disregard for the written Word, and broad acceptance of the religious world? If that is the kind of church we want, then make the decision now. However, if we want what the Lord wants, then let us go back to the Bible and find the church there and bring it into our lives through the Word.
2842 Shelby St.
Indianapolis, IN 46203 .

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. There Will Be No Compromises

Al Macias

In the book of Exodus we are able to find many great lessons that we can apply to our lives even today. One of these lessons is found in the beginning of the book where Moses and Aaron were sent by the Lord to deliver the people from Egyptian bondage. Moses and Aaron confronted the Pharaoh and requested that he let the people of God go so that they might celebrate a feast unto the Lord in the desert. When Pharaoh was first confronted with this request, he asked Moses and Aaron, "Who is the Lord that I should obey his voice and let Israel go?" It is from Pharaoh's response that the Lord did indeed show, not only Pharaoh, but Israel as well, who He was. Pharaoh soon knew, without a doubt, about the omnipotence of the Lord.
Pharaoh reasoned that if the people had the time to go and worship the Lord in the desert, then they must have the time to do even more work than they had been doing. Pharaoh believed that perhaps the way to keep the Israelites under control was to make them work harder. He gave instructions to his taskmasters to no longer provide straw to Israel for the making of brick. Despite this, Pharaoh still expected the people to continue making the same amount of bricks as they had made previously. When the people complained about it, Pharaoh blamed Moses for their problems. Moses immediately went to the Lord, and the Lord told him that He would deliver the people from Egypt with a strong hand. Thus, God performed various miracles to help Israel be set free.
As the plagues began to come over Egypt, Pharaoh reacted by hardening his heart even more. Through these calamities, Pharaoh learned that the Lord would be obeyed one way or another. Each plague that came over Egypt helped Pharaoh to be persuaded to do as the Lord had commanded him. Eventually, Pharaoh realized that the God of Israel was too powerful to be resisted and decided to let the people go, but he tried to set the conditions. At this point, we learned that God will accept compromises from no one!
The first compromise we see that the Pharaoh tried to make is found in Exodus 8:25, where Pharaoh told Moses that the people could go and sacrifice to the Lord, but they were to stay in the land. Moses would not accept this. Pharaoh later said that they could go and sacrifice, but not very far (Exodus 8:28). In Exodus 10:11, Pharaoh told Moses that they could go, but only the men. Moses would not accept this; and the final compromise that the Pharaoh tired to make is found in Exodus 10:24. Pharaoh told Moses all could go and serve the Lord, but they were not to take any animals. Again, Moses would not accept the Pharaoh's conditions. The conclusion that we must draw from this Biblical account: Once God has told us what to do and how to do it, there is no room for compromise by anyone.
8900 Manchaca Rd.
Austin, TX 78748 .

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The Kingdom And The Church

Earl Case

Thanks to each of you that responded to the February 1997 elders column on the questions we use at East Corinth to guard the flock from false teaching that is being spread among many that are in the kingdom of Christ today. I will be replying to each of your letters as soon as possible. I recently retired from the railroad, after nearly 46 years, and have been busy setting up an office in my home. I now can look forward to serving the Lord without any interference from secular work.
Most of the letters have been very complimentary and some have been to some degree critical. Most were interested enough to fill out the answers to the questions and make remarks like: "I am afraid I would fail your questionnaire miserably." Let me state here that this questionnaire is for the purpose of teaching the Word in the correct way without any innovations and to help those who are in error to come to a knowledge of the truth. One letter explains what is needed when a young man said he some day wanted to be able to retire and preach or perhaps serve as an elder. I can associate with that since that is the road I have traveled for the last 46 years.
The questionnaire printed in the February 1997 issue of Seek The Old Paths is used by the elders at East Corinth to determine if a person is grounded in the truth enough to teach a Bible class, preach from the pulpit, serve as an elder or deacon or any phase of the work of the local church. These questions alert us to the fact that some need further teaching and study. This questionnaire is certainly not exhaustive and many more questions could be added depending upon certain doctrines and/or practices that different geographic areas face.
Paul warned the elders at Ephesus, "For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock" (Acts 20:29). Departure from the Faith was already at work in the first century (2 Thess. 2:7), is still at work today and will continue to work until the end of time.
When it comes to writing, I can only express the Lord's Word in a simple and loving way. In formal education I graduated from Bardwell High School in Kentucky. I have been blessed by having Christian parents who brought me up in the Bardwell church of Christ. I was taught to respect and walk in the ways of the Lord. I have always, since those days, loved to preach the Gospel and still preach at every opportunity. The greatest privilege I have is to serve with Ed King and Wallace Benjamin as fellow elders at East Corinth. Serving as an elder restricts me from preaching full time.
Some of you have requested I write on a certain subject and I will write on these when we finish dealing with the questionnaire.
Now we will deal with a question that seems to give the most trouble to some that have answered the questionnaire and written me letters. Question 2 is the one we will deal with in this issue of S.T.O.P. The question "Do you believe the kingdom and the church are one and the same or different?" Take the question just as stated and answer it "same" or "different" according to the truth and Bible authority. Some have tried to go beyond or short of the actual question.
One letter received, signed "Several Faithful Gospel Preachers" (no names listed, the postmark was Bakersfield, CA), took issue with the question by making the following statement. "To present the kingdom as ALWAYS being equal to the church, as your questionnaire does, is false doctrine." In the first place, the letter mis-quotes the question by adding the word "always." The question, as we ask it, does not make a statement of Bible teaching one way or the other. This simple question, of itself, is not teaching anything. If someone feels they need to clarify their answer, then they are at liberty to do so. In the second place, it is difficult to answer questions when the letter isn't even signed with names and address. What does the writer(s) have to gain by the cover-up? It is sad when brethren are too prejudiced to be willing to seek the truth.
Another letter written for the purpose of learning more of the truth answered the question correctly. Jesus warned the apostles in Mark 8:7 against false teaching. "Why reason ye, because ye have no bread? perceive ye not yet, neither understand? have ye your heart yet hardened?" All we want to do is to be able to teach the truth and guard the flock against false teachers. When questions are answered incorrectly, we then have the opportunity to point out error and teach the way of the Lord. When letters are not signed, the only way we can point out error is through the pages of S.T.O.P.
Now let us consider the very simple question with Bible in hand. In Daniel 2:44, Micah 4:1-4 and Isaiah 2:1-4 and 9:6-7, we find prophecies concerning the Lord's kingdom. In Matthew 16:16-19 we read where Jesus promised the kingdom and in verse 28 He said that some standing there would not taste death until they saw HIS kingdom come. Acts 2 reveals that great event -- the establishment of the Lord's kingdom which is the church. This is the general use of the word kingdom in the New Testament. It refers to the Lord's church. We realize, however, that in some places the kingdom refers to the eternal abode of heaven (cf. Matt. 25:34; 2 Peter 1:11); but in many others, the kingdom of heaven refers to the church (Matt. 3:2; 4:17). We know on the other side of this question there is another kingdom and it belongs to Satan. He offered it to Christ in Matthew 4:8 but Christ refused it and the devil left Him.
The answer to question 2 is a simple, SAME. We realize there is a lot of error being taught on the Lord's kingdom and any good elder would guard the flock from such error. The question is intended, therefore, to help determine if one believes or leans toward premillennialism (a 1,000 year reign of Christ on earth on David's literal throne). If he didn't know what the preacher believed or the Bible teacher was going to teach, how could he guard the flock against the wolves?
There is much more that could be taught concerning the kingdom which is the same and not different from the church. We hope you have a much better understanding of the question. We will take up the questions dealing with fellowship with denominations in a future issue of S.T.O.P.
2009 Liddon Lake Rd.
Corinth, MS 38834 .

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Place the scripture which authorizes women interpreters here.
Still Waiting... ?

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. "New World Translation"
And 2 Peter 3:10

Jesse Whitlock

Judge Rutherford, successor of Charles Taze Russell, the founder of Jehovah's Witnesses, attempted to explain away 2 Peter 3:10 by saying that "...The apostle is here using symbolic language. The passage states that "...The earth and the works that are therein shall be burned up" [Emphasis mine -- jlw]. The New World Translation (NWT) has corrupted the text to read, "yet Jehovah's day will come as a thief. In which the heavens will pass away with a hissing noise, but the elements being intensely hot will be dissolved and the earth and the works in it will be discovered [Emphasis mine -- jlw]. Now let me say that there is a world of difference in a thing being "burned up" and a thing being "discovered!" Which had you rather hear: "Our dinner just got burned up!" or "Our dinner was just discovered!?"
I recall the first time I read this perversion of God's Word in 2 Peter 3. The words that immediately came to my mind were the words recorded in Isaiah 8:20, "To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them."
Later, it dawned on me that this is the same error made by those who cling to the A.D. 70 heresy introduced from denominationalism to the Lord's church by Max R. King. Jehovah's Witnesses and the followers of Max King both have made the same error of judgment as pertains to 2 Peter 3.
The words "burned up" are taken from the Greek katakaio which means to burn up, to consume with fire. The Greek for "discovered" is katanoeo. The scholars have stated, "...Discovered is strange and improbable" (Thayer). Also, "...Discovered obviously makes utter nonsense of the place" (Burgon). The evidence is highly in deference to "burned up."
The New World Translation, like the current A.D. 70 heresy, is not even consistent. The same Greek phrase is used elsewhere in the scripture. Matthew 3:12, "...But the chaff he will burn up with fire..." (NWT). Revelation 8:7, "...A third of the earth was burned up, and a third of the trees was burned up. And all the green vegetation was burned up..." (NWT) [All emphasis mine -- jlw]. Why would they translate correctly in these four instances and then incorrectly in the only other occurrence of the phrase? Why, because 2 Peter 3:10 stands diametrically opposed to Jehovah's Witness' doctrine. This same place also stands diametrically opposed to the A.D. 70 error.
Not only is the New World Translation inconsistent in its translation (or mistranslation!), it also contradicts itself on this very matter. Consider the wording of Hebrews 1:10 in the NWT: "...You at the beginning, O lord, laid the foundations of the earth itself, and the heavens are the works of your hands, they themselves will perish..." [emphasis mine -- jlw]. Then, within the context itself notice 2 Peter 3:7 in the NWT: "...By the same word the heavens and the earth that are now stored up for fire..." [Emphasis mine -- jlw]. Shades of contradiction -- what shall it be? The A.D. 70 Errorists are in league with the doctrine of Jehovah's Witnesses. Paul warned in 1 Corinthians 15:33, "be not deceived. Evil companionships corrupt good morals."
809 Pershing Dr. E
Ardmore, OK 73401 .

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. The Biblical Doctrine Of Predestination

Dennis Gulledge

There have been many doctrines in the Bible that men have corrupted by their efforts to make them teach something completely alien to the truth. Predestination is one such doctrine.
Thrilling and heart touching is Paul's description of God's chosen people, "predestinated," (foreordained," ASV), "unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself" (Eph. 1:3-5, 11). However, this doctrine has been twisted, perverted and wrenched so that its true meaning is largely distorted in the eyes of truth seeking people. The conflict which exists over this principle centers between the advocates of human free-will, and the advocates of deterministic predestination.
The position of the latter is given in the Presbyterian Confession Of Faith, Chapter 3, sections 3-5, which say, in part:

"By the decree of God, for the manifestations of his glory, some men and angels are predestinated unto everlasting life, and others foreordained to everlasting death. These angels and men thus predestinated and foreordained are particularly and unchangeably designed, and their number is so certain and definite that it can not be either increased or diminished..."

Most influential in spreading this view has been John Calvin (1509-1564). His theology, known as Calvinism, which still wields a strong influence in the religious world, holds that God, from eternity has predetermined every individual who will ever be saved or lost, and absolutely denies the free will of man, that is, if you are among the "non-elect" you cannot be saved, and if you are among the "elect" you cannot be lost.
Did God arbitrarily predetermine the eternal destiny of every person? Many insist that he did and that man can do absolutely nothing to save his own soul. I must insist, however, that God does not work that way and that the Bible teaches that salvation is conditioned upon our obedience to God's will (Matt. 7:21; Mark 16:16; Heb. 5:9).
Three Calvinistic Proof Texts: There are many Scriptures used by those who believe in arbitrary salvation. Among them are:
Romans 8:28-30. "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified."
This section of scripture is often relied upon by those who wish to insist that God foreknew those individuals who would be saved, and he accepted them by arbitrary predetermination.
The simple truth of this passage is that God foresaw in his purpose (v.28) that certain persons would obey him; that they would comply with the conditions of justification through Christ, and be saved according to God's redemptive plan. He knew that there would be an obedient class of individuals, as there always has been, and thus, Biblical predestination is of character and not of persons arbitrarily selected.
Romans 9:10-13. "And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated."
Calvinists are proud to know that God chose Jacob over Esau. To them, such an act of the Divine will bolsters their whole contention.
There is no hint here, however, of individual predetermination as pertaining to personal salvation. It is simply a description of God's sovereign right to choose Israel over Edom through whom the Redeemer should come.
Acts 13:48. "And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed."
The word, "ordained" may also mean, "determined, or, wanted." That is, these are those who wanted eternal life. The context shows that Paul is contrasting the unbelieving Jews (vs.45-46) with the open minded Gentiles (v.48). It simply means that the Gentiles were interested in God's system of salvation through Christ, whereas, many of the Jews and the Judaizinig teachers were not.
The effort of some to make these, and other New Testament texts, teach an arbitrary salvation technique employed by God is to completely miss the point of Biblical predestination. It is an effort to force a false doctrine in contradiction to what the Bible says in other places about the free-will of man. It is a doctrine out of harmony with the fact that God is no face receiver (Rom. 2:11).
No serious student of the Bible denies Biblical predestination. It is denied, however, that God elected certain ones regardless of character to be saved, and others to be lost, denying human freedom.
P.O. Box 345
Mabelvale, AR 72103 .

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. 12th Annual
Seek The Old Paths Lectureship

July 27-31, 1997
Always the 4th Sunday in July

Theme:
The Church at Colosse
. SUNDAY, JULY 27 . . . .

9:45	The History Of The City Of Colosse Along With The Occasion And Setting Of The Church, 1:1-2 . . . . . . . . . . Windell Fikes
10:30	Conversion In Colossians . . . . . . . . . . Nat Evans
7:00	Exposition Of 1:3-8 . . . . . . . . . . Charles Blair
8:00	A Faithful Minister, 1:7; 4:7 . . . . . . . . . . Garland Robinson

MONDAY, JULY 28 ...... .

9:00	Exposition Of 1:9-20 . . . . . . . . . . Wayne Cox
10:00	Let No Man Deceive You, 1:23; 2:4,8,16,18,20-23 . . . . . . . . . . Brian Hodge
11:00	Being Fruitful In Every Good Work, 1:10 . . . . . . . . . . Ted Horn
1:30	Exposition Of 1:21--2:3 . . . . . . . . . . Dean Fugett
2:30	Redeeming The Time, 4:5 . . . . . . . . . . John Grubb
7:00	Dead In Sins, 2:13 . . . . . . . . . . Charles Leonard
8:00	Alive In Christ, 2:13 . . . . . . . . . . Melvin Sapp

TUESDAY, JULY 29 ...... .

9:00	Exposition Of 2:4-12 . . . . . . . . . . Ben Vick
10:00	The Nature & Preeminence Of Christ, 1:15-19 . . . . . . . . . . Robin Haley
11:00	The Kingdom Of God's Dear Son, 1:13 . . . . . . . . . . Chuck Northrop
1:30	Exposition Of 3:16 . . . . . . . . . . Charles Pledge
2:30	Exposition Of 3:17 . . . . . . . . . . Ken Burleson
7:00	Punishment Of The Wicked, 3:25 . . . . . . . . . . Ron Cosby
8:00	Redemption Through His Blood, The Forgiveness Of Sins, 1:14 . . . . . . . . . . Gilbert Gough

WEDNESDAY, JULY 30 ...... .

9:00	Exposition Of 2:13-23 . . . . . . . . . . Wayne Coats
10:00	The Mystery Of The Gospel, 1:26-27; 2:2; 4:3 . . . . . . . . . . Melvin Elliott
11:00	Worshipping Of Angels, 2:18 . . . . . . . . . . Walter Pigg
1:30	Exposition Of 3:1-15 . . . . . . . . . . Alan Adams
2:30	Give Thanks To God -- Gratitude, 1:3,12; 2:7; 3:15,17; 4:2 . . . . . . . . . . H. D. Simmons
7:00	Grounded And Settled, 1:23 . . . . . . . . . . Virgil Hale
8:00	The Wrath Of God, 3:6 . . . . . . . . . . Terry Joe Kee

THURSDAY, JULY 31 ......

9:00	Exposition Of 3:18--4:1 . . . . . . . . . . Bill Crossno
10:00	Love To All The Saints, 1:4 . . . . . . . . . . Don Tate
11:00	Let Your Speech Be Seasoned With Salt, 4:6 . . . . . . . . . . Arthur Burnett
1:30	Exposition Of 4:2-18 . . . . . . . . . . Jimmy Bates
2:30	Laboring Fervently -- Zeal, 4:12 . . . . . . . . . . Jimmy Young
7:00	The Priorities Of Life, 3:1-2 . . . . . . . . . . Ed Casteel
8:00	The Hope Which Is Laid Up For You In Heaven, 1:5 . . . . . . . . . . Ronnie Whittemore

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East Corinth Church of Christ
1801 Cruise St., Corinth, MS 38834
Voice (601) 286-2040 or 286-6575 / Fax (601) 286-2040
Email: Contact Us

MOTELS:
Comfort Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 228-5150
Executive Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 354-3932
Executive Inn has both "Economy" and "Executive" Lodging.
Comfort Inn does not have a dining room.

Limited housing is available in member's homes. Contact the church office for reservations. Water and electrical hook-ups (no sewer) are available for RVs. We would like to know in advance of your arrival to reserve you a space.

BOOK, VIDEO & AUDIO TAPES ARE AVAILABLE
A book of the lessons will be available for $5.00. If your mail order is postmarked before August 1, 1997 we will pay the postage. If it is after August 1, 1997, add $1.30 postage. Cassette audio tapes are $20 for the complete set (add $2 for postage). Make checks (for books and cassette tapes) payable to Old Paths Publishing, 304 Ripley St., Corinth, MS 38834. The set of video tapes is $50. Order from: Jim Green, 2711 Spring Meade Blvd, Columbia, TN 38401. The church is not involved in the sale of any of these materials.

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"I want you to know that I appreciate your efforts and work in Seek The Old Paths. In a day and time when there is such a great apostasy in the brotherhood, and yet the world must be reached with the Gospel, I believe it is important to have as many good and reliable resources as possible to both refute error and reach the lost. I consider your paper such a resource. May the Lord bless your work in as much as you proclaim and defend his Truth" ...James Nash, Rising Star, TX. "Just a note to say how much I appreciate Seek The Old Paths. I'm writing to see if it would be possible to get a copy of #1 Editorial on Kingism. I have the ones 2-6. I serve as an elder in the Lord's church here in Farmington, AR. We would like to put all copies together for teaching. We are striving very hard and plan to stay a sound church. Many churches in this area are becoming very liberal. How sad" ...Jack Carter, Farmington, AR. "We have been receiving Seek The Old Paths since Sep/96. We enjoy reading it and really appreciate the good work you are doing. Enclosed is a small contribution to help defray expenses" ...Fish Hatchery Rd. Church of Christ, Huntsville, TX. "I'd like for you to take my name off the mailing list. I receive other bulletins. Have about all the reading material I can handle now. I do appreciate you sending me the old paths. I have a friend who gets it also. She will share hers with me. Thank you very much" ...Geneva Bates, Booneville, MS. "Put me on your mailing list. It is good to know that some still stand for the truth. Thank you" ...Lelon Estes, St. Louis, MO. "I have had opportunity to read your fine paper and would appreciate very much being added to your mailing list" ...Carl Brown, New Johnsonville, TN. "We enjoy receiving and studying from your paper" ...Stanley Kirk, Louisville, MS. "Keep me on your mailing list" ...J. T. Smith, Booneville, MS. "I see more and more of seeking our own paths. The future of many congregations looks dim. Keep up the good work. Your publication helps a great deal in the classes I teach" ...H. Dean Leuch, Anadarko, OK. "Please take my name from your mailing list. Thank you" ...Vertie Westfall, Crystal River, FL. "I'm sorry I don't get to attend the lectures, but I hear from my preacher friends they are great. You are doing GREAT with Seek The Old Paths. Keep up the good work. I enjoy and can't wait for each issue" ...Daryl Busby, Sullivan, MO. "Thanks so much for your support of the truth. For the past few months I've been on your mailing list and do appreciate receiving Seek The Old Paths. I've shown it to three of my long time Christian brothers and thy want to receive your paper. Maybe the small check will help spread the truth" ...Claud Estep, Bisbee, AZ. "I have enclosed a small donation towards the endeavor of your edifying work. Let's press onward" ...Cathy White, Pell City, AL. "I very much appreciate your sending Seek The Old Paths and want you to continue to do so" ...Bill Noblin, Hartville, MO. "I do not know how my name got on your list. Please remove it. Thank you" ...M/M Eddy Tipton, Elk City, OK. "We would like to have the publication Seek The Old Paths mailed to our home. We had a chance to read it from one of our brothers here in Rochester and thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks for all your help" ...John & Debbie McFadden, Pittsford, NY. "Please place me on your mailing list. I read a copy and liked the articles" ...Elbert Wiley, Ashville, OH. "Thank God someone is standing for the truth. Enclosed is a check for $10. Keep up the good work" ...Flora Lanham, Pascagoula, MS. "In appreciation of Seek The Old Paths" ...Irvin Williams, Louisville, KY. "Thanks for publishing such an informing publication. This helps us to know and understand how certain things are effecting the Lord's church. False teachers and their false beliefs need to be exposed. You do a very good job in doing so. We thank God for you brethren for doing the work set before you. May we always hold to the true gospel of our Lord Jesus" ...Eddie Green, Smithville, TN. "Refused" ...Wally Dawkins, Tyler, TX. "Keep up the good work. May the Lord continue to bless your work to His glory" ...Travis Quertermous, Pacific, MO. "It states on the back of your publication that it is sent free upon request. We did not request this publication. Would you kindly respect our request and do not send any more of your publication to us" ...Don & Melba Andrews, Tyler, TX. "I am glad I'm on your mailing list" ...Harold Denney, Atlanta, GA. "Please add my name to your mailing list. I preach for the Salem Church of Christ in Lawrenceburg, Tenn. The liberal movement is all around us. We are doing what we can to keep it out of Lawrence County. Your periodical does a fine job in refuting this liberal movement and at the same time the truth is being taught in love. May our God, who is the God of Truth, bless your efforts" ...Bill Brazier, Lawrenceburg, TN. "I wouldn't won't to miss an issue. I enjoy the paper so much" ...Wilda Burner, Philippi, WV. "Please add my name to your mailing list for your excellent publication. Thank you for your good work for God and his people" ...Wellington Smith, Jr., Monroe, NC. "Attached is a check to help with the good work you are doing there" ...M/M Thomas Robinson, McKenzie, TN. "I love Seek The Old Paths. Please continue your stand for God's Word and please continue my subscription. I look forward every month to your fine publication" ...Robert Allen, Maxville, FL. "Keep up the good work" ...Bryan & Melinda Hodge, Savannah, TN. "I enjoy your paper" ...Gertrude Bray, Hernando, MS. "Please cancel subscription. Thank you" ...Kenneth Furlong, Madison, OH. "One of my friends loaned me Seek The Old Paths. It is great. Thank you for helping to teach the correct word. Your paper is worth millions. We will share it with other friends" ...OK. "We think your newsletter is excellent. The best we receive" ...Frank Bauman, Pottsboro, TX. "I appreciate the fine bulletin. It's a great help and blessing to the upbuilding of the kingdom of heaven. May God continue his blessings on the work you are doing. To the elders, preacher, deacons and members of East Corinth" ...John Stevens, Corinth, MS. "I have been familiar with your publication for some time and have been enriched and encouraged by the riches of the scripture that saturates the articles. I presently have access to your publication through the library of Freed-Hardeman University but because of time and distance this is becoming more and more inaccessible. If you would, please put me on your mailing list. Thank you for your bold stand for the truth. May God bless you as you seek to conserve God's precious word" ...Mark Simons, Lexington, TN.

We look forward to seeing you at the Lectureship July 27-31. This period of study and fellowship will be most uplifting. Please come and join us. You will be glad you did!

1996 Bound Volume of
Seek The Old Paths
$5 (includes postage)

Make check payable to
Old Paths Publishing
304 Ripley St.
Corinth, MS 38834

Only 200 available!
The 1996 Volume has been sold out

BOOKS AVAILABLE

1997 -- The Church At Colosse, $5
1996 -- The Seven Churches of Asia, $5
1995 -- The Church at Corinth, $4
1994 -- Immorality, $3.50
1990 -- New Testament Questions, $3.00
1989 -- Old Testament Questions, $2.00
Preparing For The Eldership, $2.00
The Race That Is Set Before Us, $8.00

Shipping/Handling -- 1 book, $1.50
2-3 books, $2.25
For each additional book, add 50 cents.

All books are sold by Old Paths Publishing, not the church.

Send order to:
Old Paths Publishing
304 Ripley St.
Corinth, MS 38834

12th Annual
Seek The Old Paths
Lectureship
July 27-31, 1997
"The Church At Colosse"
Held at the East Corinth Church of Christ

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