Month: October 2026

The BIBLE VIEW #1070 — Changed

In This Issue:
New Things
Things Will Be Different
Are You A Peculiar Person?

Volume: 1070   November 2, 2026
Theme:  Change

New Things
Bill Brinkworth

Living a biblical lifestyle is certainly the old way; the way much of mankind has lived for over 6,000 years.  Living that way may be “old-fashioned” today, but many new things can happen in one’s life when one obeys and lives biblically.

Here are some of the new things God offers and desires all to have and experience:

A new birth.  When one becomes a child of God, he experiences a spiritual birth.  One becomes a new, different person.
“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3
“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.” I Peter 1:23
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” II Corinthians 5:17

A new joy, happiness, and purpose.  Being born again is wonderful.  When one is saved, one will experience joy and happiness.
“O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth.  Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day.  Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people.  For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods.”  Psalm 96:1-3
“And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.” Psalm 40:3   Also: Psalm 98:1.

A new “heart.”  God gives, along with salvation, a new “heart” that has new desires, purposes, and hopes.
“Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will even gather you from the people, and assemble you out of the countries where ye have been scattered, and I will give you the land of Israel.  And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh: That they may walk in my statutes, and keep mine ordinances, and do them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God.” Ezekiel 11: 17-20 These verses were written about the people of Israel, but the principle can be applied to us.
“A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.” Ezekiel 36:26

 A new outlook; life is seen differently.  When one is saved, educated from the Word of God, and obedient to it, life looks a lot different.  Activities and actions of the past now may appear contrary to God’s commandments and harmful rather than “fun”.  The “old, dead” Bible now becomes alive and helpful.
“Thou hast heard, see all this; and will not ye declare it?  I have shewed thee new things from this time, even hidden things, and thou didst not know them.” Isaiah 46: 6

 A new life (a new mind).  Along with other new blessings comes the “mind of Christ” that thinks much differently than it did before the new birth.
“That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.  Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.  Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.” Ephesians 4:22-27
“And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:” Colossians 3:10

A new day filled with second chances and other opportunities.  Just as a new day brings fresh opportunities and expectations, God gives the born-again soul a second chance in life.
“It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.  They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23

A new testament; a new covenant.  A “testament” is a document declaring the will and desires of a person.  The New Testament that God gave man is not only part of the Bible, but it is His will and the new covenant (commitments or promises) He made with man.  It tells of God’s will for man in this church age.
“And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” Mat.  26:27-28
“And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.” Mark 14: 24

 A new world.  One day God will destroy this world and a new one will descend.
“For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered.” Isaiah 65:7
“And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.” Revelation 21:1  Also: II Peter 3:3.



Things Will Be Different
Bill Brinkworth

When one trusts Christ as Saviour it often appears to be a quiet, sober event. Sometimes, the person getting saved may shed tears of joy as they call out to God for salvation.  A person sharing the moment with the one being saved may become excited, but there is always a lot more happening than anyone could ever observe. 

Here are some of the events and changes that occur when a lost person gains God’s promise of Heaven:

One is in Christ.  A person is forgiven, and now has new priorities and a desire to please the Saviour.
“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”  Romans 8:1   Also: Psalm 103:12, Mat.  26:28, Mat.  28:19-20, Mark 3:28, Rom. 4:7, I John 2:12.

One has their eternal destination changed.  A person is not going to Hell, but to Heaven.
“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

One has peace, that they never had before.
“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 4:7

One will be a changed person!
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” II Corinthians 5:17 

One has a new spiritual Father and a large spiritual family.  Many biblical references when talking about God refer to Him as “your” or “our” Father.
“That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” Matthew  5:45
“For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.” Matthew  12:50

One can now pray and have prayers answered.
“I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.” Psalm 40:1

One’s thinking will change.  He will have the mind of Christ.
“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:” Philippians 2:5

Angels in Heaven rejoiced when one is saved:
“Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:10

One has their name written in the Lamb’s Book of Life:
“And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Rev.  20:15

“While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”  II Corinthians 4:18



Are You A Peculiar Person?
Bill Brinkworth

“Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” Titus 2:14

“Peculiar” is “beyond usual,”  If you claim you are a Christian, are you different than the unsaved  or do you think, act, talk, and cherish the same things the unsaved do?

If you are born-again then:

  • You should be “zealous of good works.” (What God identifies as good works).  Are you doing something for the cause of Christ?
  • Are you a holy example: 
    “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:” I Peter 2:9

If you are “peculiar” then you are a “treasure unto the Lord as Jacob and Israel were.
“For the LORD hath chosen Jacob unto himself, and Israel for his peculiar treasure.” Psalm 135:4

“Don’t look back to your past.  If you are saved, you should not be going in that direction anymore!”    — Author Unknown

The BIBLE VIEW #1069 — Obedience

In This Issue:
Obedience
Have A Clear Conscience
Our Benefits

Volume: 1069   October 26, 2026
Theme:  Obedience

Obedience
Bill Brinkworth

Unfortunately, most people naturally do not want to obey any authority.  Often, it is a challenge to humble themselves to submit to a power over them.

In many lives, a power struggle rages as children do not want to obey parents, employees resist obeying employers, and even citizens refuse to obey laws.  To some, obedience is no longer a struggle, as they have made up their minds a long time ago not to obey anyone but themselves, and certainly not to let anyone have any rule or reign over them.

Like it or not, all of us have to obey someone or an authority over us for the rest of our lives.  Without order, anarchy and disorder will follow, as is evident in many communities today.

Ever since the Garden of Eden, man has struggled with whom he will obey.  Someone pointed out that a main theme of the Bible is government: who will govern whom?  Will it be God who rules and reigns in our lives, or will we not even obey Him, and instead be our own masters?

No matter what we have convinced ourselves to believe or what has been drummed into our heads, there are godly commandments to obey.  Here is some of what God’s Word has to say about obedience:

  • All have a command to submit to God’s law.
    “Thou shalt therefore obey the voice of the LORD thy God, and do his commandments and his statutes, which I command thee this day.” Deuteronomy 27:10  Also: Psalm 18:44.
  • Obedience to His commandments is very important to God.  
    “And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD?  Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.” I Samuel 15:22  The context of this verse concerns Israel, but it reveals God’s heart for obedience to Him.
  • Because of Adam and Eve’s refusal to obey one of God’s commands, all are now born as sinners and will have to battle sin’s control the rest of their lives.  
    “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.” Romans 5:19
  • Many things in this world obey God.  His word mentions that the weather, waves, animals, and the rest of His creation obey Him.  It is a shame when we, who are created in His image, do not obey Him at all times.  
    “… for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.” Mark 1:27 Also: Matthew 8:27, Mark 4:41.
  • Whether or not one admits it, one is obeying someone all the time.  All are servants to one master, be it the Master of the universe or the master of one’s own selfish desires.  
    “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.” Romans 6:12 Also: Rom.  6:16.
  • God reminds us throughout the Bible that life will be easier and more blessed if we obey what He tells us to do.
    “A blessing, if ye obey the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you this day: And a curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of the LORD your God, but turn aside out of the way which I command you this day, to go after other gods, which ye have not known.” Deut. 11:27-28  Although the context is a command to Israel, the principle applies to the believer today when he obeys the Lord.  Also I Sam.  12:14-15.
  • All will have to obey someone sometime.  If they do not learn obedience at a younger age, they may struggle to obey authority later.  That is one reason God commands children to submit to their parents’ authority.  
    “Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.” Ephesians 6:1  Also: Colossians 3:20, Prov. 30:17, Exodus 20:12.
  • People need to obey God.  That is part of God’s plan for the hierarchy of leadership.  
    “But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.” I Corinthians 11:3
  • Wives are to obey their husbands.
    “Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.” Ephesians 5:24  Also: I Peter 3:1.
  • We need to obey our employer.
    “Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:” Colossians 3:22 Also: Titus 2:9.
  • We are to obey authorities over us.  This includes teachers, police, and government.  Not obeying the authority over us is disobeying God.
    “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.” Hebrews 13:7  Also: Titus 3:1.  However, when the commands and laws of the government or our authority contradict what God commands us to do, we should always obey God first: “… We ought to obey God rather than men.” Acts 5:29
  • The local church should obey God’s commands.  
    “Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ …” Eph. 5:24

Again, no one wants to obey anyone.  It is a very difficult thing to do.  God, however, has laid out a leadership hierarchy that will work.  We may not like the order of people that we are to submit to, but it is God’s plan.  His plan works: choosing whom we will obey usually does not.

God’s commands are for our benefit.  Father knows best!  As Israel told Joshua, after they learned this truth the hard way, so should our heart’s desire be: “… The LORD our God will we serve, and his voice will we obey.” Joshua 24:24

“Obedience and respect at home prepare the way for obedience to the employer, and they are joined with other virtues that help assure a prosperous career, crowned with a ripe, honored old age.  Disrespect for parents is often the first step in the downward track.” — D. L Moody

 

Have A Clear Conscience
Bill Brinkworth

A conscience is the sense of moral correctness that influences or controls one’s behavior and thoughts.  For a Christian, that sense of right or wrong is often the imprint of biblical principles on one’s  mind.  The result of having a conscience free of nagging reminders is when one has peace, not guilt.
“And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.” Acts 24:16 
“And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.” Acts 23:1
“Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.” Hebrews 13:18
“Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.” I Peter 3:16 

When we ignore what our conscience reminds us of, the result is often a hardened heart to righteousness and the things of God.
“Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;” I Timothy 4:2

Keep your conscience clear from wrong, troubling, and guilty thoughts and actions.  Obey what God has laid on your heart and has shown you to do.


“Obedience to God is the most infallible evidence of sincere and supreme love for him.”  — Emmons

Our Benefits
Watson — 1696

God commands nothing but what is beneficial.”
“And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul,” Deuteronomy 10:12

To obey God is not so much our duty as our privilege and is the wise thing to do.  His commandments help us. He bids us repent, and why? that our sins may be blotted out.
“Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;” Acts 3:19

He commands us to believe, and why? that we may be saved.
“And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.” Acts 16:31

There is love in every one of His commandments.  

“It is not enough to understand God’s Word or to talk about and dispute its teachings. The Bible’s commandments and principles must be obeyed.” 
— Manton, 1620-1667

The BIBLE VIEW #1068 — Halloween

In This Issue:
Halloween

Volume: 1068   September 15, 2025
Theme:  Halloween

Sunday School Teachers & Preachers: Hundreds of free lessons and Bible View bulletin inserts/handouts are available at http://www.openthoumineeyes.com/index.html and http://www.devotionsfromthebible.com/.  The commentaries for each New Testament chapter can also be used for lessons at http://www.openthoumineeyes.com/blog/.  You can be assured that all material uses only the KJV (most Sunday School material cannot claim that)!



Halloween
Bill Brinkworth

More than 2,000 years ago, the pagan Celts celebrated the end of the summer and the arrival of cold winter.  The day was celebrated on November 1, the beginning of their new year1. 

The celebration served as a poignant reminder that winter would claim many lives.  On the night before their New Year, October 31, the Celts believed that on that day, Samhain, the dead returned to the Earth.  It was believed that those spirits would create trouble and destruction.  Death was the theme of that day2.

It was also believed that the Druids, the Celtic priests, could make prophecies about the future on that day.  The priests built huge fires where people burnt crops and sacrificed animals to the Celtic “gods.”  Festival attendees wore costumes, often featuring animal heads and skins, and tried to tell others’ futures. 

Around A.D. 43, the Romans took control of the Celtic territories.  Over time, they combined the days commemorating the Roman Day of the Dead and their day honoring their false goddess of fruit and trees (Pomona, which was symbolized by apples) with the celebration of Samhain. 

In 60 A. D., Catholic Pope Boniface IV established the feast of All Martyrs Day, honoring Christian martyrs.  Later, Pope Gregory III expanded the feast to include all saints and martyrs and moved it from May 13 to November 12. 

The influence of Catholic ”Christianity” spread to Celtic areas.  As Catholicism has done throughout history, it absorbed pagan beliefs into Catholic teachings to make the religion more encompassing and powerful. 

Later, November 1 became “All Souls Day,” “All Saints Day,” and “All Hallows’ Eve” to honor the dead.  Eventually, the day became “Halloween” and is celebrated much like Celtic Samhain.  Bonfires, costumes, and parades were part of the celebration.  Some dressed up as saints and devils.  It was soon celebrated on October 312.

As immigrants who upheld the Catholic/Celtic tradition of Halloween came to America, the practice spread.  It was not accepted in New England because the Bible’s influence was too profound, and they recognized it as an ungodly event.  However, it did thrive in Maryland (“Mary Land, named after Mary in the Bible, whom Catholics venerated.”)

As Halloween spread across America, that day’s traditions evolved.  However, many of the early practices remain, including bobbing for apples, giving treats, scaring people, costumes, and concern for the dead in the afterlife.

Today, in many areas, people celebrate Halloween more than Christmas.  The day often glorifies things God is against, including the occult and the theme of fear. 

Scary things, such as ghosts, devils, and unwholesome things are emphasized on that day.  Professing witches commemorate Halloween more than their other festivals and days they remember.

Halloween is a day that remembers and celebrates traditional pagan beliefs.  It should have no business being observed by professing Christians.  It glorifies everything a Christian should avoid.

Halloween:
Incites fear.  We are to respect and rely on God.  We are not to fear what could happen in this world.  Fear breeds trust in oneself.  Our eyes and reliance should be on Him, not on the things of this world or those that God opposes.
“And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28
“But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Luke 12:7
“Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” Luke 12:32
“Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.” Psalm 37:7   Also: Proverbs 24:19.

Glorifies death and makes it appealing.  But, for many, death will be eternal agony in Hell and later in the everlasting Lake of Fire.  Halloween desensitizes many so that they will not fear death, which they should if they are not saved (John 3:3).
“And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire.  This is the second death.” Revelation 20:14
“And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:15  Also: Rev. 20:10.

Fills one’s mind with wicked, ungodly thoughts and actions.
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8
“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” Colossians 3:2
“The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.” Proverbs 15:26

Witchcraft.
“Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.” Exodus 22:18   In the Old Testament, they were to put witches to death.  Today, many dress up as witches and even venerate them.  God hated the sin then and hates it today.
“For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.  Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.” I Samuel 15:23.  Witchcraft is a sin, and we are to stay away from it.  We should not venerate it or make it appealing, as Halloween, movies, and other forms of entertainment do.

Fortune tellers  and talking to spirits:
“A man also or woman that hath a familiar spirit, or that is a wizard, shall surely be put to death: they shall stone them with stones: their blood shall be upon them.” Leviticus 20:2
“Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I am the LORD your God.” Leviticus 19:31
“A man also or woman that hath a familiar spirit, or that is a wizard, shall surely be put to death: they shall stone them with stones: their blood shall be upon them.” Leviticus 20:27 
“And I will cut off witchcrafts out of thine hand; and thou shalt have no more soothsayers.” Micah 5:12  A soothsayer makes futuristic predictions, often from supernatural sources.
Read: Deuteronomy 18:10-11, Leviticus 20:6.

Wizards:
“And the soul that turneth after such as have familiar spirits, and after wizards, to go a whoring after them, I will even set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people.” Leviticus 20:6
“And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts.” Malachi 3:5    Also: Leviticus 19:31, I Samuel 28:3, 9.

God commands not to have any part with the occult.
“There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, 11 Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer (sorcery, divination).” Deuterobomy 18:10-11
“Ye shall not eat any thing with the blood: neither shall ye use enchantment, nor observe times.” Leviticus 19:26


Halloween has origins in ungodly behaviors and practices.  Christians should not elevate it by using it as entertainment or celebrating what God forbids.
“Abstain from all appearance of evil.” I Thessalonians 5:22  Also: Philippians 4:8.
“Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils.” I Corinthians 10:21

Many justify participating in the celebration of Halloween by claiming, “It’s just harmless fun.  We are not encouraging people to be involved in those sins.”  Maybe so, but it shows people, especially the youth, that it is an acceptable activity. 

Many folks have their first exposure to the occult from the “innocent” participation of glorifying things that God is against.  Halloween can plant ungodly ideas in minds to consider later.  If it is okay to do things God hates on one day of the year, do not be surprised if that exposure to those things becomes more than a thought in someone’s mind.  Do not celebrate a day that glorifies activities God is against!

1 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halloween

2 https://www.history.com/articles/history-of-halloween

“Christian, you are on the winning side.  Why are you doing what the losing side does?”  — Brinkworth
“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,” II Corinthians 6:17
“Abstain from all appearance of evil.” I Thessalonians 5:22

The BIBLE VIEW #1067 — Look Out!

In This Issue:
Watch Out
Challenges
Another Jesus

Volume: 1067   October 12, 2026
Theme: Look Out!

Watch Out
Bill Brinkworth

The most important things a person should be wary of is not being saved, spending eternity in Hell, and eventually ending up in the Lake of Fire.  Trusting Jesus’ death on the cross to rescue one’s lost soul will keep one from a tormenting eternity.  One is then “born again” into the family of God and becomes a Christian.
“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3

As Christians, we need not fear much.  But, the Bible cautions us of many spiritual circumstances we should be wary of.  They include to:

Beware, as God warned Israel, that worldly things and blessings from God may make one forget that it was God’s hand on your life that allowed you to receive those things.
“And houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full;  12 Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.” Deuteronomy  6:11-12  Also: Deut. 8:11-12, 15:6-9
“And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.” Luke 12:15

Beware of disobeying what God has laid on your heart, as many Old Testament believers were cautioned. Manoah was reminded of some of God’s commandments and warned against breaking them.  We should also be careful not to violate what God has forbidden.
“And the angel of the LORD said unto Manoah, Of all that I said unto the woman let her beware. Beware 14 She may not eat of any thing that cometh of the vine, neither let her drink wine or strong drink, nor eat any unclean thing: all that I commanded her let her observe.” Judges 13:13-14

Beware of going against God’s emissary, including pastors or ministry leaders, as Old Testament saints were warned.
“And the man said unto Joab, Though I should receive a thousand shekels of silver in mine hand, yet would I not put forth mine hand against the king’s son: for in our hearing the king charged thee and Abishai and Ittai, saying, Beware that none touch the young man Absalom.” II Samuel 18:12

Beware of false biblical teachings.  They may seem innocent, but they can destroy one’s life, testimony, and fellowship with God.
“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” Matthew 7:15
“Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.” Mat. 16:6   As leaven, or yeast, can change a loaf of flour, false teachings can spread and change hearts.
“Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Colossians 2:8  Also:II Peter 3:17.

Beware of ministry leaders who serve religion for their own gain, pride, or other wrong reasons.
“And he said unto them in his doctrine, Beware of the scribes, which love to go in long clothing, and love salutations in the marketplaces,” Mark 12:38
“Beware of dogs [non-believers], beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. [short speeches which often leaves out much truth].” Philippians 3:2


Challenges
Bill Brinkworth

When one gets saved, they are expected to serve the Lord who saved them. No one is to sit and lazily soak up God’s goodness. 

One is to do what God commands in His Word, tell others the messages from God’s Word, feed oneself spiritually, have a relationship with the Lord, and do what the Lord lays on one’s heart to do for Him. These tasks may seem simple to some, but they can cause great grief when one decides to do them.

Matthew 10 is primarily about the disciples that Jesus hand-picked. Those men were to reach the Jews with God’s truths. They were warned that telling others what they had learned from Christ would not be easy. 

Although it was addressed to the disciples, who were reaching the people of Israel, they faced much that we, as we try to live and do right, can also expect to encounter. That may include persecution and resistance. 

Here is what may be encountered by those striving to be a good Christian and be obedient to God’s commandments even today:

  • Many will not receive the Scriptural messages. Not everyone will jump for joy when told what the Word of God says. We probably were not excited the first time we heard the truths from God’s Word, either.
    “And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.” Matthew 10:14
  • There will be problems from the “religious.” Not everyone who has a “form of godliness” is a Christian. It was a religious group that tried the hardest to silence Christ. They did not want anyone exposing that their “religion” was contrary to what was taught in God’s Word (Matthew 10:16-17). Many of the “religious” today also do not want to hear the truth. They choose to believe only their traditions, doctrines, and interpretations of Scripture.
  • The secular government may also oppose efforts to tell the world about God’s way of living. Many government officials think their rules and laws are what the world needs. They do not understand how a good Christian life can provide man’s needs and solve many of his problems.  They were among Christ’s greatest opponents and can still be a roadblock for many serving the Lord today.
  • There may be conflicts in a family when a member gets saved and lives differently than He did before (Matthew 10:21).
  • A Christian may be hated for how he lives (Matthew 10:22). It is incredible how the world “understands” and tolerates criminals and those in outright sin, but those who are living right often get more criticism and hatred than those purposely doing wrong. Perhaps the godly example convicts and troubles their consciences. The only way they can silence their nagging guilt is to get rid of the messenger rather than change themselves!

It was difficult for these men to stand and live for Christ. Today, it is also difficult to live as the Bible commands. That may be why so many do not live righteously. They quit when things get tough. Do not quit! Do right no matter what others say or do!

“Following God’s directions is the only way to get safely home.”   
— Author Unkbnown



Another Jesus
Bill Brinkworth

One of Paul’s concerns for the church at Corinth was that it would fall for false teachings (II Corinthians 11:3). He was troubled that someone would preach “another Jesus” (II Corinthians 11:4).

The preacher knew there was only one Jesus. His sarcastic remark was meant to alert the Corinthians to be wary of anyone preaching anything other than what Paul had taught them. Paul taught them the truth, undefiled and often directly from God. 

Even then, others were corrupting the truth. Those teaching their ideas and not what the Word of God said were not of God (II Corinthians 11:13-14).

Paul warned the church that those teachers were motivated by Satan (II Corinthians 11:14). They may have sounded or even looked “Christian”; however, their purpose was not to glorify God but to separate and weaken the believers.

Satan’s ploy in that way is still going strong today. He does not have much imagination. Perhaps the enemy of God figures that if it worked in Paul’s day, it will also work today. Unfortunately, that thinking is correct.

Today, people often give the preacher more credence than God’s Word. They are often more interested in whether he is articulate, educated, or friendly than if he is true to the teaching of God’s Word. In many cases, they would leave the church if he preached everything the Bible says. That is why so many preachers watch what they preach. 

Too many will not preach against adultery, false bibles, Hell, and sin because they don’t want to offend anyone. It’s a shame, because one purpose of preaching the truth is to “offend” people into not sinning.

After preaching a watered-down philosophy, it is not far-fetched to preach “another Jesus.” The clues that this is going on are often, “the Bible doesn’t mean…”, “the Bible was mistranslated, and it doesn’t really say…”, or even “Jesus meant….”

What Paul warned the early church about is still a frightening reality today. Beware of teachers who do not preach all the truths from God’s Word. 

“The Truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth; anything else is a lie.”  — Author Unknown

The BIBLE VIEW #1,066 — The Holy Spirit

In This Issue:
Why Don’t They Understand?
Too Late
The Power of the Holy Spirit
Amazing Grace

Volume: 1066   October 4, 2026
Theme: The Holy Spirit

Why Don’t They Understand?
Bill Brinkworth

“In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” II Cor. 4:4

After more than 40 years of telling others what the Bible says one must do to have the promise of Heaven, I still wish there were something I could say or do that would instantly get someone saved and on the way to eternity.  Unfortunately, there is no such way! 

One can give the clearest Bible verses one knows to show another the way to Heaven, but the unsaved listener often politely stares back at the soul-winner and does not appear to be stirred.  Even the best stories of how the Lord has changed the soul-winner’s life often end in empty stares also.  

Sharing the Bible’s scariest verses about the eternal home for the lost in a tormenting Hell often does not even raise an eyebrow.  Scripture about standing before the final judgment for the lost at the Great White Throne Judgment does not even seem to concern them.  They just do not seem to understand.

Soul winners may have to deal with hardened hearts, not-ready-yet souls, and those ignorant of God’s truths.  Often, without knowing why, it seems the Holy Spirit is not involved, and He is the only One who wins a soul to Christ. 

Another very serious obstacle keeps many from being saved.  That reason may be the root cause of previously mentioned excuses for one’s not getting saved.  They are spiritually blinded.  Often the blindness is caused by Satanic intervention.  All other excuses may just have been the device that Satan used to keep a soul from being born again.

Spiritual blindness has always been a stumbling block for one to get saved, and it is especially a barrier in these days.  Perhaps a person has heard so much negativity about being saved that they have not sought it out honestly for themselves.  They heard that “salvation is forced down one’s throat” without experiencing someone aggressively showing them the way to Heaven. 

Others are turned off to being born-again as they fear they will not have a mind or will of their own and will have to do things they do not like or believe in.  Some fear their freedoms will be stripped from them.  Many have been so entrenched and addicted to sin that they have no interest or concern for anything that would change their lifestyle.

Talking to so many spiritually blinded people can be frustrating to one concerned about the souls of others.  The Holy Spirit and we seem to do everything we can to alter their eternal destination from Hell with seemingly no results.  Then, when we least expect it, we have the honor to lead one “easily” to salvation.  What is the difference?

When somebody readily accepts Christ as Savior, we do not know all the work, trials, and tribulations the Holy Spirit has done in their lives.  It is His work that prepares them for when a soul-winner can talk to them.  When their heart is ready, only the Holy Spirit can remove their spiritual blinders.

With this in mind, we should see the importance of “sowing the seeds” of the Gospel.  One day those thoughts, verses, and biblical principles Christians planted may grow. 

On that day, the Holy Spirit may open the eyes of the sinner, and he will no longer be blind to the things of God.  It may be the day when one gets saved.  It may be the beginning when one understands more of the things of God.  That is why we must keep on sowing God’s truth, because one day the “seeds” may sprout.
“Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed.” Isa. 6:10
“Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, 40 He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.” John 12:39-40

“When men surrender themselves to the Spirit of God, they will learn more concerning God and Christ and the atonement and immortality in a week, than they would learn in a lifetime, apart from the Spirit.”   — Brown

Too Late
R. A. Torrey

One evening when Mr. Alexander and I were in Brighton, England, one of the workers went out from the afternoon meeting to a restaurant for his evening meal.  His attention was drawn toward the man who waited upon him.  A strong impression came to his heart that he should speak to the waiter about his soul, but it seemed so unusual that he kept putting it off.

When the meal was ended and the bill paid, he stepped out of the restaurant, but felt so strongly that he should speak to that waiter that he decided to wait outside until the waiter came out.

A little while later, the proprietor came out and asked why he was waiting.  He replied that he was waiting to speak with the man who had waited on him at the table.

The proprietor replied, “You will never speak to that man again.  After waiting on you, he went to his room and shot himself.”

Oh, men and women, there are opportunities open to us that will be gone, and gone forever.  When the Holy Spirit speaks to your heart, do as he urges you; as there may never be another opportunity.  His timing is always perfect!

The Power of the Holy Spirit
John Bate, 1871

The same wind that tosses the Atlantic into restless mountains of water can gently fan it into a tranquil calm.  Similarly does the Holy Spirit.  His influence agitates and tosses the conscience of the guilty sinner into a thousand fears and concerns.  He can also soothe one into blessed peace. 

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.  30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.”    Ephesians 4:29-30

Amazing Grace
A Hymn by John Newton, 1779

  1. Amazing grace!  How sweet the sound
    That saved a wretch like me!
    I once was lost, but now am found;
    Was blind, but now I see.
  2. ’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
    And grace my fears relieved;
    How precious did that grace appear
    The hour I first believed.
  3. Through many dangers, toils and snares,
    I have already come;
    ’Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,
    And grace will lead me home.
  4. The Lord has promised good to me,
    His Word my hope secures;
    He will my Shield and Portion be,
    As long as life endures.
  5. Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
    And mortal life shall cease,
    I shall possess, within the veil,
    A life of joy and peace.
  6. The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
    The sun forbear to shine;
    But God, who called me here below,
    Will be forever mine.
  7. When we’ve been there ten thousand years,
    Bright shining as the sun,
    We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
    Than when we’d first begun.

“Unless there is within us that which is above us, we shall soon yield to that which is about us.”  — Upper Room