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The BIBLE VIEW #1071 — Politics

In This Issue:
Irreparable Damage
The Damage They Have Done

Volume: 1071   November 9, 2026
Theme:  Politics

Irreparable Damage
Bill Brinkworth

One reads in I and II Kings that after King Solomon’s death, the kings that succeeded him were often less than desirable.  At least 26 leaders were remembered as: “…they walked in the sins” of another person, “… sinned and made Israel to sin …”, “… did evil in the sight of God…”, or “… did worse than all that were before him.”  Poor leadership has always been a problem for any country, including Israel.

Sadly, at that time, only six leaders were recorded as doing “… right in the eyes of the Lord …”, “right in the sight of the Lord,” or even “… according to all his father (a godly man) did.” Further investigation of those six reveals that not all of them did all that was right.  They tolerated some sin to continue in their country and did not halt all that was plaguing the nation.  Early Israel showed that godly leadership is rare.

Of all the kings that wanted to lead their country in the direction God commanded, Josiah  (II Kings 22-23) was the most determined to please God and have Him bless his country.  King Josiah rebuilt the temple so the country could return to proper worship of the one God and urged the priests to inquire of the Lord what must be done.  When Josiah heard God’s truths from the Word of God, he was convicted, repented of his sins, and was even more determined to remove sin from his country so God’s hand would be on it.

The young king committed himself, and the people also agreed, to obey God.  He cleaned out idolatry from all over the country.  Even the places of false worship were destroyed.  Priests of false religions were killed.  Houses of sodomites (II Kings 23:7) were destroyed.  Witchcraft and occult practices (II Kings 23:24) were also “put away,” along with many other practices that were abominable in the sight of God.

After all the “good” this king brought about in Israel, I expected to read that God would spare the country His due wrath, as He had done graciously many times in the past.  Although there “… was no king before him, that turned to the Lord with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his might …” (II Kings 23:25), God did not stay His hand of vengeance on the land, all because of the great wickedness of a previous king, King Manasseh (II Kings 21).
“Notwithstanding the LORD turned not from the fierceness of his great wrath, wherewith his anger was kindled against Judah, because of all the provocations that Manasseh had provoked him withal.” II Kings 23:26

Horrified, I related that time in history to what is happening in so many countries today.  Leaders, like the wicked King Manasseh, are also ignoring God’s laws.  They allow false worship to continue, and in many ways even give it preferential treatment.  There is no effort to turn to God.  Abominations that are forbidden by God are allowed and encouraged to continue.  God is mocked, ignored, or forgotten.

Even more frightening is that if a godly leader did take the reins of a country and do all he could to turn the country to God and even have results, it might be too late!  Irreparable damage may have been done that has angered a Holy God!  The sins of past leaders may have angered God so much that no matter what moral and biblical changes are made, it may be too late!

What can one do when God is so angered at what was done by previous leaders and the people?  There is nothing that can be done if it is anything like what happened before King Josiah’s reign.  A nation will reap what was sown by wicked rulers.  Only God can turn His wrath away.  We certainly cannot make Him.

If a nation finds itself in the hopeless situation Israel faced in II Kings 23, individuals still must not give up and succumb to what everyone else is doing.  Christians must still stand for what is right, live righteously, and do all they can to change what is going on around them.  

Although nations may crumble, individuals must still determine in their heart to do what is right according to God’s Word.  We must do right, no matter what happens around us.
“So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” Rom. 14:12  Also: Eph.  6:13.

“No one gets away with sin!” — B. B.

The Damage They Have Done
Bill Brinkworth

A liberal philosophy has existed throughout history, but rarely has it done as much damage to society as it has done in the last fifty years.  Many boast and are not ashamed of having such a philosophy, but its destruction to individuals and the populace is far-reaching.

Webster’s dictionary (1828) defines “liberal” in many ways.  The definitions applied to a liberal philosophy include “not literal or strict, licentious, lacking decorum, unseemly beliefs, favoring changes, progressive, tolerant of other views.”

Liberal thinking is usually a value system that deviates from what is traditionally considered normal and moral.  From a Christian’s perspective, it includes beliefs that reject and want to change moral truths preserved by God in His Word, the Bible.

Any variance from how God wants man to believe and live will only lead to an individual or society becoming more immoral and living a lifestyle further from God’s demands.  The outcome of accepting biblical immorality has never been good for past cultures.  Societies deviating from following God’s guidelines have suffered, whereas those abiding by His commandments have flourished.

Over the years, we have not discouraged these philosophies contrary to God’s Word.  In too many cases, liberal thinking has even been encouraged. 

Liberal philosophers, politicians, preachers, professors, and teachers, whose beliefs kept them from being employed in the past, are now sometimes given preferential treatment in getting a job.  Although their thinking is often accepted, the price it has cost society is immeasurable.

Here are some of the negative changes liberalism has caused in our society:

  • Where the morality of the majority of society was in line with scriptural teachings, the Bible has been banned in many institutions, societies, and even in conversation.  In doing so, the standard that says lying, stealing, taking of lives, adultery, homosexuality, worshipping other gods, and other moral limitations has been removed.

    Without God’s standards, it is acceptable to tell “little” white lies, take things that do not belong to you if you are needy, kill unborn babies because they are unwanted, commit homosexuality, and worship anything you want because you feel better when you do so.  Without God’s measuring tool, the Bible, anything goes.
  • Leaders who once could not get a job or be elected if their character or beliefs strayed from biblical teachings are now elected to positions that make decisions that alter society’s morals.  Elected leaders in the United States have passed laws that allow over 4,000 murders of unborn babies every day.  They have also removed mentions of anything about God or His Word in public situations (including the Ten Commandments that were posted in many public buildings), encouraged public acceptance of homosexuality, making it a crime if anything is said contrary to their beliefs (“hate crimes”), and countless other anti-scriptural laws.
  • Liberal religious schools have produced preachers and leaders brainwashed to question and doubt God’s Word.  When they preach, they instill those doubts in their congregations, and now few under their preaching know what the Bible says, believe it, or follow His Word.  Because of the liberal infiltration of pulpits, “thus saith the Lord” is no longer instilled in minds.  The “fear of God” has been removed from many churches!
  • Tolerance of anything, including others’ beliefs, has allowed unscriptural, damaging lifestyles to breed.  Humanity’s depravity is now laughed at and accepted most times, as there are no longer any standards that say that anything is wrong.
  • Teachers and professors with little biblical character and standards are allowed to guide and direct young minds during most of their students’ day.  How do you think a student’s thinking will be after 12 years of liberal propaganda?


As an old ad said, “We have come a long way, baby.”  Unfortunately, the way we have gone is morally downhill, and it is not good — in God’s eyes!

Just because the liberals are confused, have few biblical standards, and, in many cases, are rebellious against God does not mean that we have to follow and conform to their way of life that we are forced to live!  We, as Christians, know where the Truth is. 

Our responsibility is to be examples many will want to follow.  Christians are to be a light in this dark, sinful world.  We need to lead biblically, not follow unscriptural pathways.  If, one by one, we each live our lives according to what God has preserved in His written Word, it will again be unpopular to think and live contrary to what God’s Word says to do.

“Usually, the liberal tries to camouflage his true identity.”
— Dr. Harold Sightler

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

The BIBLE VIEW #1065 — Being A Christian Example

In This Issue:
Be A Worthy Example
A Christian Home
An Encouraging Example
An Encouraging, Cleaned Example
Showing Hope and Love

Volume: 1065   September 28, 2026
Theme: Being A Christian Example

Be A Worthy Example
Bill Brinkworth

“Neither did we eat any man’s bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: 9 Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.”
II Thess. 3:8-9

One very important task every Christian is responsible for is to be a good, Christian example (“ensample”) to others.  Many do not read the Word of God for themselves, have not learned what God has for them to do, and rely more on a godly example than they should.  It is dangerous to their spirituality to totally follow someone else, but it does happen.

For this reason, Paul the Apostle was very aware of eyes attuned to his behavior and actions.  He wrote some important points to be “… an ensample unto you to follow …”.  In II Thessalonians 3, he pointed some of them out:

  1. That obedience and understanding of God’s Word would be seen in his life, and that God would get the glory.  If we are a godly example for someone, God and His work should always get the glory, not us!
    “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:” II Thes. 3:1
  2. Keep your distance from others who are not doing right (“disorderly”), even if they are Christians (“brethren”).  He defines “disorderly” in verse 11 as those who are lazy, not working, and those who are meddling in other people’s business (“busybodies”).  Associating with those types of people may give others the impression that you are like the crowd you are with.
    “Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.” II Thes. 3:6
  3. Do not stop living and doing right.  Others around you, even Christians, may act worldly, disobey God, or not be involved in reaching others for Christ, but that is no reason for you to abandon your post!  Keep on keepin’ on, no matter what others are doing.  Do not get tired of doing it alone.
    “But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.” II Thes. 3:13

It would be better for all if each Christian would faithfully read God’s Word and obey all that he is shown in its preserved pages, but not many do that.  They often follow the actions and behavior of those they associate with.  With this reality in mind, our responsibility to be a proper, godly “ensample” is thrust on us.  Lead those who are watching or following your example down the right paths.  There are eyes on your testimony — constantly!

“A godly, virtuous man shines the purity of his righteous life.  He is a lighthouse set by the seaside, whereby both the mariners sail safely and avoid danger.  But, he that lives in noted sins is a false lantern, which shipwrecks those that trust him and follow his example.”  — Fellthan, 1668

A Christian Home
D. L. Moody

A godly house should be the best proof of true Christianity.  It is not my church; it is my house that knows me best.  It is not my pastor; it is my home-companion who can best judge me.  It is the servant, the child, the wife, and the friend that can discern most of my real character.

A good man will improve his household.  Rowland Hill once said he would not believe a man to be a true Christian if his wife, his children, the servants, and even the dog and cat, were not the better for it.  That is being a good Christian.

If your household is not the better for your Christianity; if men cannot say, “This is a better house than others”, then be not deceived, ye have nothing of the grace of God.  Let not your servant on leaving your employ, say, “Well, this is an odd sort of a Christian family.  There was no prayer in the morning, and I saw there was no prayer at night.  I was kept at their home all Sunday working.  Once a fortnight, perhaps, I was allowed to go out in the afternoon, when there was nowhere for them to go so that I could hear a Gospel sermon.  My master and mistress went to a place where, of course, they heard the blessed Gospel of God; as for me, I had to work.”

Surely, Christians should not act that way.  Carry out your godliness in the heart of your own family.

An Encouraging Example
Bates, 1625-1699

Precepts instruct us what our duties are, but examples assure us they are possible.  Examples resemble a clear stream wherein we may not only discover our spots and sins, but also be encouraged to wash and clean them.

When we see men like ourselves, who are united to frail flesh and in the same condition as us, but they overcome the most glorious and glittering temptations, we are encouraged in our spiritual warfare.  We are encouraged that we too can get the victory over such temptations and sin.

“Men can ‘live’ long after they are dead.  They can outlive their memory, and may be more enduring than any monument of brass or marble.

“Their example may prove to be like the circles that rise around a sinking stone.  The waves it makes grow wider and wider, embracing a larger and larger sphere, until it dies in gentle wavelets on a distant beach.  Likewise, your example can also reach a distant time.  Take care, then, how you live now.” — Guthrie

An Encouraging, Cleaned Example
Talmage

A child, coming from a filthy home, was taught at school to wash his face.  He went home so much improved in appearance that his mother washed her face.  When the father of the household came home, and saw the improvement in domestic appearances, he washed his face also.

The visiting neighbors also saw the change and tried the same experiment, until the whole street was purified; and the next street copied their example.  Soon, the whole city felt the result of one school-boy washing his face.

This tale illustrates what may happen if the world stopped its sin and pollution.  A person with grace on his happy face, Christian cheerfulness in his heart, and consistency in his behavior is a sermon that many will see and will impact so many lives.  Your godly Christian behavior and attitude will make a difference.

“The flower blossom cannot tell what happens to its fragrance.  Neither can any man tell what becomes of his influence and example.”  — Unknown

Showing Hope and Love
Deb McCoy

Recognizing hope in unexpected places,
Displaying courage and character that shines forth on our faces.
Joy unrestrained in heartfelt authenticity,
Facing challenges without sinking to fleshly complicity.

Persevering by faith against all odds,
Battling exhaustion through the lenses of facades.
’Tis grace that is unleashed from Heaven above,
Telling the story of our Father’s great love.

Beyond the most painful chapters in each of our lives,
We are met by the mercies of God as our hearts He revives.
This pathway of hope strengthens our testimony in the Lord.
Growth and vitality permeate our hearts and minds as we lift up His Sword.

Our commitment to God will reveal our willingness to obey,
May we always be mindful that salvation was costly as on Calvary’s cross He did pay.
Whatever your circumstances Christ is your truest and most loving friend,
Hope is assured as you receive God’s favor and victoriously run the race to the end.

“One watch kept on time is good to set the time of others.  On the other hand, if one is not on time, it will be a poor example for others to set their time by.  Christian, be careful by whom you set your ‘time’.”  — E. Cook

The BIBLEVIEW #1064 — Zeal

In This Issue:
The Empty, Front-row Seats
Impatient Zeal
True Zeal
Why We Should Be Zealous
Zeal Without Knowledge
A False Zeal

Volume: 1064   September 14, 2026
Theme: Zeal

The Empty, Front-row Seats
Bill Brinkworth

“For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescents to Galatia, Titus unto Dalamatia.  11 Only Luke is with me…” II Timothy 4:10-11

After I was saved in 1979, I was excited about going to church, especially after finding the church I felt God wanted me to join.  I was very shy, so like many, I sat towards the back of the church.

I listened intently and learned a lot.  Attending church was like sitting at a table and eating a steak dinner.  I was fed spiritually, and I did not want to miss a meal.

However, something changed where I sat.  One Sunday, as the preacher began to preach, the woman sitting next to me reached under the pew and pulled out a good-sized paper bag.  She opened the distracting, noisy bag, pulled out her lunch, and  opened a Thermos and poured herself a hot cup of coffee. 

Between eating her sandwich, loudly slurping her java, and crunching on a crispy apple, I was so distracted that I got little from the much-wanted message from God.  I was determined that I would not be robbed of hearing the message God had for me again, so after that service, I changed where I sat.  Whenever the seat was available, I sat in the first row.  I did not want to miss a word God had given the preacher to deliver to me. 

While sitting on the first row, I observed something very encouraging.  Many others, mostly new converts, would also get serious about wanting to hear God’s message, and they soon sat in the front row.  Many sat next to me.  I got friendly with many of them, and even went on Thursday night, church-wide visitation with some of them.  They also fervently wanted to obey and do something for the Lord.

However, their love for the service and hearing God’s Word changed.  They no longer commented on how it was a great service and how God spoke to their heart about a matter in their life.  Soon they had all kinds of excuses for not wanting to join me in the visitation ministry.

It was not long before they started missing services, and soon they stopped coming to church completely.  I visited them at their houses to encourage them to come back, but ultimately their seat next to me in the front row remained empty.

I miss those friends, but most of all I miss seeing others get excited about their salvation and being eager to serve the Lord.  Paul, in II Tim.  4, experienced the same feelings when Demas, and possibly others, no longer “sat in the front row” with him, so to speak.  I am sure he was grieved to see that the temporary things of this world had a greater meaning to Demas than obeying and serving the Lord.  Although forsaken by Demas and others, Paul continued and was greatly used of God.

Have you been discouraged that another Christian is not serving the Lord as he used to?  Do not be.  Encourage them if you can.  Pray for them, but keep “sitting in the front row.”  I’m still there, and I saved you a seat.
“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”  Hebrews 12:1-2

Impatient Zeal
John Bate

Some Christians are very earnest to do good, but they are impatient.  They ask for results.  They search for results.  They make themselves unhappy and sometimes obtrusive as they wait to see the fruit of what they have done.

I am reminded of a boy who wanted a little wheat field in one corner of his father’s garden.  The first morning came, but nothing appeared to have grown.  The second day came, and still no growth showed.

His patience was worn so thin that he took his knife, and later a rake, to scratch the earth to see if the seed was growing.  His impatience retarded, and even killed, some germinating seeds, rather than helping their growth.  If he patiently waited after sowing the kernels, he would have seen blades of wheat in the proper time.

So it is with many Christians.  Let them be zealously affected to do good, and patiently wait for results.  Their impatience will slow success more than it helps it.

“Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.” Psalms 27:14



True Zeal
Cudworth

Let us take heed we do not call it zeal for God and His Gospel when it is nothing else but our own tempestuous and stormy passion.  True zeal is a sweet heavenly, and gentle flame, which makes us active for God, but always within the sphere of love.  It never calls for fire from Heaven to consume those that differ a little from us in their understandings.  It is like that kind of lightning, which philosophers speak of, that melts the sword within, but burns not the scabbard.  Righteous zeal strives to save the soul, but hurts not the body.

Why We Should be Zealous
John Bate

  1. It is the desire of Christ for us.
    “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   Also: Rev. 3:19.
  2. Because Christ was zealous.
  3. It shows Christ’s love in our hearts.
  4. It was shown in the lives of the apostles and other Christians.  Read also: Acts 22:3.
  5. Personal advantages can be derived from it.
  6. The good it may accomplish will help others and spread the truths of God’s Word.


Zeal Without Knowledge
John Bate

Zeal without knowledge of God’s Word is like a sword without a hilt to wield it by.  It is also like a high-bred horse without a bridle to guide it, and like an uncontained fire.

Zeal without knowledge speaks without thinking, acts without planning, seeks to accomplish a good end without thinking how to start it properly.  It often does one thing when it should have done another.  It is often boasting, vain, self-righteous, and stubborn.  It seeks to establish its own righteousness, rather than submitting to the righteousness of God.

“You want to do something marvelous for the Lord?  Wonderful!  Pray about it, faithfully study and search the Scriptures, and let God guide you in the direction He desires for you.” — Author Unknown



A False Zeal
Bonnar, 1871

A false zeal in religion is always, in one respect or other, a misdirected zeal, or a zeal not according to knowledge.  It is a zeal seeking some false end, or, while proposing to itself a good end, seeking its promotion in some unauthorized way.

Jehu had a good zeal, which he called zeal for the Lord of Hosts.  His fault was not that he was too zealous, but that his zeal was directed to his own advancement.

The Jews, in the days of Christ, had a zeal for God, but it was so misdirected as to fire them with a frenzy to destroy the Son of God and extinguish the Light of the world.

There are countless examples of false zeal now at work; but in all cases, they sin not by excess, but by misdirection.  Some are flaming with a zeal to spread some of the corruptions of a weakened Christianity, and to carry men away from Christianity’s great truths.  Some are equally zealous to build up a sect or a party on other foundations than those which God has laid in Zion; and that which taints their zeal is the purpose to which they employ it, and not any excessive fervor of their zeal itself.

“Blind zeal can only do harm.”  — Lichtwer

The BIBLE VIEW #1063 — A Secure Salvation

In This Issue:
If One Could Get Unsaved …
How Can I Know I Am Saved?
Eternally Secure?
So, You Want Proof

Volume: 1063   September 14, 2026
Theme: A Secure Salvation

If One Could Get Unsaved …
Bill Brinkworth

The Bible clearly teaches that when one is saved, one cannot lose their salvation.  No one certainly deserves such a wonderful gift as eternal life. Still, God gives salvation to those who trust Christ’s payment was enough for their sins.  

Many, however, think they can lose their salvation.  Logically, this does not make sense, and that idea is also not biblical.  If one really could lose his salvation, it would mean that:

Jesus did not die for all your sins.  We know Jesus did die for all our sins: the sins of our great, great grandfather, our sins, and our great grandchildren’s. The iniquities Christ paid on the cross were for all our trespasses; including the sins we did before we were saved, the ones that we have committed today, and the ones we will commit next year — all sins!  God’s Word says:
“For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;” I Corinthians 15:3
“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5

Jesus’ payment for sins was not enough for the sins we did today.  If one thinks he can lose his salvation, then he implies that Jesus’ payment on the cross was not sufficient payment.  God’s Word says:
“Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.” I Peter 2:24
“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9
“Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.” Romans 4:25

His death was in vain.  If one believes that Jesus’ death alone was not enough to save him, then His death on the cross was unnecessary and for naught!  However, the Bible says: Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,” II Timothy 1:9

They are doing something to keep their salvation.  Opinions of this nature usually follow with thoughts of doing good things to earn or keep their salvation.  Salvation is a gift; it cannot be earned.  God’s Word says:
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast” Ephesians 2:8-9

God is a liar!  If one thinks he can lose his salvation, then he is proving that he does not believe what God’s Word says about receiving eternal salvation.  He would be implying God is a liar.  Perish the thought.  It is impossible for God to lie (Hebrews 6:18).  God’s Word says:
“And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.  My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” John 10:28-29

“We are saved by Jesus’ doing for us what we cannot do for ourselves.”
— Lester

How Can I Know I Am Saved?
Bill Brinkworth

A person can surely know if he is saved.  If he has done what the Scripture says to receive salvation through trusting in Christ’s death for his sins as the only way to Heaven, he will see changes in his life.  He will see new things happen in his life.  Here is an examination of some of those new things:

A NEW belief
I John 5:10 “He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.  11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.  12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.  13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”

A NEW interest in God’s people
I John 3:14 “We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren.  He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.  15 Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.  16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” The “brethren” are other “saved” people.

A NEW Master
John 10:25 “Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness of me.  26 But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you.  27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.  29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.”

A NEW Life
II Cor. 5:17 “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” The new life will include things that you never thought you would do.  You will also find you no longer have a desire to do many of the wrong things you used to do, or even have a conviction against doing them.

A NEW Trust
II Timothy 1:12 “For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.”

A NEW fruit — NEW interests
Galatians 5:22 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.  25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” When the Spirit of God indwells us, there are some things He wants done in our lives and around us.  These changes that we allow Him to do in us and with us, are proofs of our salvation.

“Human nature’s way of salvation is, “Do, do, do.” God’s way of salvation is, “Done!  Done!  It is all done.” You have but to rely by faith on the atonement that Christ accomplished on the cross.” — Spurgeon

Eternally Secure?
J. B. Hall, www.liferayministries.com

“And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” Ephesians 4:30

Are we eternally secure?  Once we are saved, must we then hold on to our salvation?  Must we endure to the end to really be saved?  According to the verse above, when we are saved, God seals us with the Holy Spirit, preserving us. 

While some believe we must persevere, Scripture teaches that we are preserved.  The responsibility of our keeping then falls to God, not to us, not even to God-assisted self-effort.  Dr. Tony Evans explains that the error in thinking we must keep ourselves is that we receive salvation by faith and then turn to our works or some other experience for assurance.  In other words, we trust God to save us, but depend upon ourselves to keep us.

 If you are saved, rest under the seal of God’s secure keeping.


So, You Want Proof?
D. L. Moody

Now, I find many people who want evidence that they have accepted the Son of God.  My friends, if you want any evidence, take God’s Word for it.  You cannot find better evidence than that.  

When the angel Gabriel came down and told Zachariah he should have a son, Zachariah wanted a further token than the angel’s word.  He asked Gabriel for it, and the angel answered, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of the Lord.”  He had never been doubted, and he thundered out that to Zachariah.  Still Zachariah wanted a further token, and Gabriel said, “You shall have a token; you shall be dumb till your son shall be given you.”

“What we mean by salvation is this: deliverance from the love of sin, rescue from the habit of sin, and setting one free from the desire to sin.”
— Spurgeon

The BIBLE VIEW #1062 — Standing Firm

In This Issue:
Stand Firm!
So Great A Heritage
Giving It All

Volume: 1062   August 31, 2026
Theme: Standing Firm



Stand Firm!
Bill Brinkworth

Being a faithful, obedient Christian has never been easy. Our early forefathers battled Satanic opposition that most modern Christians cannot even imagine. Yet, many of them persevered and stayed their course.
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:” II Timothy  4:7

It was, and often still is, difficult and a sacrifice to stand against worldliness, godlessness, and ever-changing popular unbiblical social trends. Those determined to be a godly example and do right, no matter the obstacles or consequences, often face embarrassment, being demeaned, and even danger. 

However, many in those situations value righteousness more, and they will still stand no matter the humiliation and consequences they may face. Many have even lost their lives rather than surrendering the standards and beliefs they held.

Paul relayed how believers in his time were troubled, persecuted,  and “cast down.”  But, through all their trials and testings, they were “not distressed,” “not in despair,” “not forsaken,” and “not destroyed.” They endured it all and kept going forward for the cause of Christ, no matter the outcome. 

What would their example be if they succumbed to the enemy’s pressure?  Their testimony and example to the world would be destroyed, and evilness would triumph! They stood firm on biblical principles and became the light that will shine and be remembered through spiritual darkness.
“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed… 12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you.” II Corinthians 4:8-12

Those suffering saints understood that standing for what Christ died for was worth all they would suffer and give so that others could have the promise of Heaven and the opportunity to live righteously. They stood firm under pressure to stand for righteousness, no matter what happened to them.
“Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.” II Cor. 4:10

However, with all the early believers endured, they realized they were paving the way for future believers to survive and thrive.  They were examples that reminded many of who Jesus is and what He endured on their behalf. Others’ salvation and living righteously is worth all that can be given for that cause.

Today, many Christians think and consider quitting being a testimony if one even hears gossip that the believer is “nuts,” or “taking what the Bible teaches too seriously.”  Ridicule from others quiets the wisdom and discernment of a faithful believer. 

Even the suspicion that one may face pushback on their biblical stand halts many from ever being a godly example for the world to see. The importance of “if the public is not told or shown what God says to do they will not know” has no value or concern for many!
“Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Ephesians 6:13

In a time where righteousness has been discarded and evilness is embraced, it is time for all Christians to stand firm and speak loudly of biblical standards and teachings.  If we do not tell the world what the Bible teaches, how will they know? Many will eternally suffer because of Christian’s fear of the possible consequences of sharing God’s truths!

“God may not require you to give your life for the cause of Christ, but you still can make a public stand for what the Bible teaches.”  — Brinkworth

So Great A Heritage
Bill Brinkworth

Christians today, both in America and throughout the world, have so much for which to be grateful.  Our faith, Bible, doctrines, and freedoms were secured at a high price paid by our Christian predecessors.  It cost many of them their lives and much suffering, yet we take for granted what believers of the past had to pay dearly for and place little value on our Christian heritage.

Believers should not be surprised if they face persecution, as their namesake, Jesus Christ the Son of God, also received much.  His righteousness and exposure of false religions were so grievous to the followers of man-made worship that they ensured the Saviour was beaten, ridiculed, mocked, and eventually nailed to a cross.  If God allowed His Son not to escape the world’s wrath and hatred for the things of God, Christians should also expect difficulties.
“If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.  Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord.  If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you;….” John 15:19-20

We get upset if someone makes a joke about our faith or even scoffs at us.  Most of us today have little understanding of what Christians before us suffered for their beliefs.  Here are some reminders of the sacrifices and suffering early Christians faced for their faith and godly lifestyles:

  • The first followers of Jesus ran for their lives as they were pursued (Acts 8) for believing and professing that Christ was risen (Acts 4:2-3) and was their Saviour.  It was not the unsaved, but the religious, who often initiated much of their persecutions even before A. D. 30.  
  • Saul, before he was saved, took part in the killing of the first martyr for Christ, Stephen.  Saul, later renamed Paul, watched as the godly preacher was stoned to death.
  • Believing Jesus Christ was the long-awaited Messiah cost many in the early churches.  It cost them their belongings, reputations, livelihoods, imprisonment, and even their lives.
  • The apostles were persecuted for their beliefs, and most died because of them.  Paul, who once led the slaughter against Christ’s disciples (Acts 9:1, 2), faced imprisonment, beatings, stonings, and persecution (II Corinthians 11:25) after being saved and becoming a faithful follower of Christ’s teachings.
  • The persecution of Christ’s followers continued after the death of the apostles.  Foxe’s Book of Martyrs describes many of the barbarous atrocities done against believers.  He reports they were tortured, boiled in oil, cut in half, thrown to the lions, burnt alive, mocked, enslaved, and other unimaginable atrocities. 

    For what crime were they killed?  It was for the “crime” of believing, standing for, and following the teachings of God’s Word.  In many cases, their demise could have been avoided by a simple, verbal recanting of what they believed.  They did not even have to believe what they said. 

    It would often have sufficed to their tormentors if they had just said that “Jesus was not the Son of God,” that they did not believe in the Word of God, or that the false ‘church’ persecuting them was the ‘one true church,’” and their lives would have been spared.  However, their faith meant everything to them, and many died for their convictions.



Millions of men, women, and children died for their faith in the past.  The walls of Rome’s catacombs and other hidden places reveal how many lived and died in fear of being caught and tortured for their beliefs.  Many had to worship in secret places for fear of being killed or imprisoned for attending a church service.  

Landmark’s Baptist College’s collection of ancient Bibles has a Bible with fire-scorched pages.  It was plucked out of the flames that burned its owner.  He refused to denounce his faith in Christ and His Word, and the man was burnt to death.  Today, his Bible is preserved as a reminder of what Christ and His Word meant to some and how many died for reading or living God’s way.

With the freedom that most have today, many professing Christians do not live for Christ, let alone die for Him.  It is easy to attend a nearby church, yet countless excuses are given by those not attending. 

Most households contain at least one copy of the Word of God.  However, few have bothered to read it.  Baptistries are now heated and always available, yet few follow the Lord in believer’s baptism.  Although we are quickly losing our religious freedoms in the United States, it is still possible for a believer to obey the Lord’s command and tell others how to go to Heaven, yet few do.

What does your faith in Christ mean to you?  Does God’s Word mean so much that you read it faithfully and would not sway from its teaching?  Is the price Christ paid on the cross for our salvation so precious to you that you are determined to live for Him, no matter the cost socially or monetarily?  Are the Bible’s truths so important to you that you share them with others no matter the cost in time, money, or others’ opinions?

We are nearing an era’s end when many lived their faith in Christ and shared it with others without paying a high price.  However, because many have not stood up for their beliefs and freedoms, the ungodly are taking away those liberties.

For most of us, compared to what our predecessors have paid for their religious convictions, the cost to us has been minimal.  That fact may change shortly. 

Will you be willing to pay the price for your faith, no matter what it is?  Many say they will die for their faith, but for most of us, God only requires that we live for Him. Are you living boldly for Him today?

“If Christians don’t tell the lost world biblical truths, how will they know?.” 
— Brinkworth

Giving It All
Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, John Foxe

Martyrdom followed the Gospel wherever it went, wherever it conflicted with local custom or practice. Sometimes the clash could be characterized as pagan versus Christian.  Other times, sadly, the clash was Christian versus “Christian.”  The Reformation was just such a time: the Church seemed mired in falsehood and deceit, and visionaries believed that restorative transformation was necessary.

Godly men — men committed to faith in Jesus Christ — called for change.  It’s not surprising that those challenges were unwelcome.  What began as an attempt to reform from within ultimately became a bloody schism. The Church authorities attempted to silence the reformers, eventually resorting to force.  Many reformers, faced their own martyrdom — death by fire, by hanging, by strangulation, and by beheading.

“Jesus gave it all for you, what are you sacrificing?”  — Brinkworth