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The BIBLE VIEW #1028 — Our Sinful Nature

In This Issue:
Die, Old Nature!  Die!
Remarried

Volume: 1028     December 8, 2025
Theme: Our Sinful Nature

Die, Old Nature!  Die
Bill Brinkworth

When a person is saved, he becomes a different, “new” man.  One may be “new” on the inside, but all have the same “flesh” they were born with.  

Those fleshly, worldly desires may be tucked away out of sight for now, but they will always be waiting for their chance to make an appearance.  If the indwelling “new man” does not keep them in check, they will ruin his life and cause him to be in the same miserable state, or worse, than he was in before.
“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

No, one does not get unsaved because he does not follow the “new” Holy Spirit’s guidance.  However, his life may not appear much different from that of an unsaved person.  He will not have the joy he could have, nor be all he could be.  He will go through many hardships he would not normally face, and God will not use that person as He desires.

All have to battle the pull from the old nature’s stranglehold to rule and get its way.  Many of our personal and social problems are because someone’s “old man” (Romans 6:6) is trying to rule the roost — again.  

It is that old man who is prevailing when the green-eyed monster of jealousy raises its unruly head between brother and sister, or when one gets angry quickly with another.  He surfaces again when a lie is offered to get one out of trouble.  

It is the “old man” who creates power struggles between peers, becomes selfish, and it is that same villain who spreads gossip to defame one’s testimony because someone hurt the gossiper’s feelings.  The “old man” exposes himself when a mouth spews out hurtful words and filthy talk.

The old nature retakes control when we allow it to criticize someone who is not doing things our way, when we are scared others are not accepting us, and in countless other ways.  The “old man” will always haunt our lives, until we do what God commands us to do to our old, could-be-dominating nature.  Our “old man” must die — sometimes even daily, but he must cease to control our lives!

No, do not even suggest that one commit sin and takes one’s life.  It is not what the Bible is teaching here. That thinking is definitely letting the “old man” have his lecherous control over one’s life.  Everyone, if they want to please God, must put the “old man” of the flesh to “death” and let the new, spiritual man lead.  The old nature must have as little control over one’s life as possible.  Here is some of what the Bible says about the subject:

When one is saved, he is a different person with new needs, desires, and purpose.  The second “birth” creates in him a new part of him that never existed before.
“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   Also:  II Cor. 5:17 (see above).
“For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.” Galatians 6:15  Religious ceremonies, traditions, and works should not be the governing factor in one’s life, but a new, spiritual life in accordance with God’s Word should be guiding him.

Do not live for “self.”  Let the “new man” be your life’s leader.  Put self-ambition, self-goals, and self-desires behind you and let your leading force be the desire to be obedient to God’s commandments found in His Word and to be a godly testimony (example).  Listen to the indwelling Holy Spirit.  

Let many of your self-motivated desires “die,” and have no control over your life.  In so doing, God will live through you.  The “new man” has a new mind, Spirit, master, goals, and  joy.
“And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” Ephesians 4:24
“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Romans 6:4
“Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:” Colossians 3:9-10  

Let your “old man die”.  Self-will will have less dominance when the “new man” is leading.
“Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.” Romans 6:6

Do not let worldly desires and habits rule your life.  Being born again is being born into the family of God.  What kind of child are you that, while a member of one family, acts like and wishes you were a member of another family?  That is what those who are living for the world, by living the world’s way, are doing.  By their actions, they are telling God, “I love you Father, BUT I like how the unsaved live, and I will behave, have the same goals, and strive to be like them.”

Christians are on the winning side!  Why would anyone ever want to act and live like those on the losing side?
“That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts … 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.  Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.  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. … Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:22-32
“And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” Galatians 5:24
“But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.” Romans 13:14
“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16 “Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.  Behold, I will do a new thing; ….” Isaiah 43:18-19
“But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you.  Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” Romans 8:9
“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world.  If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” I John 2:15
“Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;” Colossians 3:9  

You are not your own anymore if you are saved.  “I’m born again, but I don’t want to do all God wants me to do,” is what too many say by their actions and words to God.  You are not your own; you are purchased by God when you were saved.  The blood that Christ shed on the Cross bought you.  

You did not like who you were, or how you were headed to Hell, before you were saved.  God has done great things for you, including rescuing you from an eternal Hell.  Don’t you want to do something for Him?  Live the life He wants you to live!
“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?”  I Corinthians 3:16

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:2
“Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.” Psalm 100:3

If all the children of God would obey the “new man,” and let their “old man” “die”, their lives would be much different.  There would be fewer disagreements, tensions, and disunity in churches, families, schools, and the workplace.  All would have the same Godly purpose and direction when the “new” creature is allowed to guide them through life.  If you want the “new” life God desires you to have, let your “old man” die — and please, don’t ever let him be resurrected!

“There is but one question, and that is, what is the will of God?  That settles all other questions.”  — William E. Gladstone

Remarried
Bill Brinkworth

In Romans 6, Paul lets us know that when we trust Christ as Saviour, our “old man” is “dead” (Rom.  6:6).  The part of us that was once unrestrained, did whatever it wanted to, even things that were against God’s desires for us, is “dead”.  Once we are saved, we no longer have to serve our sin nature.

Romans 7 takes that understanding and explains how we are no longer under sin’s dominion, and the Old Testament laws that identified the sins.  Paul likens the new arrangement of being saved to a new marriage (Romans 7:2-3). 

Like a marriage, one is bound to one spouse for as long as they live.  Before we were saved, we were bound to sin, until that nature died.  It led us where we allowed it to take us into bars, adulterous relationships, bitterness, blasphemy, and hosts of other places.  Our sin nature was in control.

Like a marriage, we are no longer bound to the first “spouse” when that “spouse” dies.  Our first “spouse” died when we got saved.  That first “husband” contained over 600 Old Testament laws.  A saved person is “… dead to the law by the body of Christ …” (Romans 7:6).

The law is essential, however.  It shows us what God likes and dislikes.  From it, we learned that lying is wrong, as is adultery, deceitfulness, disobedience, rebellion, hatred, and on and on the list goes (vs. 7).  Without the law of God, we would not have known the whole mind of God concerning sin.

The law is very hard, however.  It curses and condemns us for the sins we have committed.  Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, when accepted, pays for our sins, and now we can have grace and mercy.  As Matthew Henry put it, “The sentence of the law against us is vacated and reversed by the death of Christ to all true believers.”

For the believer, the “old man” is dead.  We can be “married” to another.  The second spouse is Christ.  We are not bound to the “old man” and his laws.  Yes, the old nature and new nature will still battle for control (Romans 7:18-19),  but with the new mind a Christian has, he can be free from the control of sin (Romans 6:7).

“If you are saved, you sin by choice, not by chance.” — Barbara Brinkworth

The BIBLE VIEW #1022 —Anger

In This Issue:
Get It Right Before Bedtime
When Anger Is Sinful
Uncontrolled Anger
When Humor Helped Keep His Shirt On
Yielding Personal “Rights”
Unhappy and Last Place

Volume: 1022   October 20, 2025
Theme:  Anger


Get It Right Before Bedtime
Bill Brinkworth

Part of man’s makeup includes the “anger” emotion.  Perhaps, because we are made in the image of our Creator, we received this reaction in certain situations from God.

Reading the Scriptures, one will quickly see some instances where God was angry.  There were times when God was angry with Moses (Ex. 4:14), Aaron (Deut. 9:20), Israel (Deut. 9:8, II Kings 17:18), Solomon (I Kings 11:9), and the wicked on a daily basis (Psalms 7:11). 

God’s only son, Jesus, also got angry at times.  He was angered by hardened hearts (Mark 3:5).  Most likely, Jesus was angered when He saw people making the Temple, a place of worship, into a place of commerce (John 2:14-15).

However, when God and Jesus became angry, no sin was involved.  God is Holy (Lev. 19:2, I Sam. 2:2) and does not sin, nor does His Son (Heb. 4:15).  Anger does not necessarily need to be sinful.

There are still things that make God angry, and I am sure they still break Jesus’ heart.  We encounter plenty in this life that should make a Christian angry. 

The killing of 4,000 innocent babies a day by abortion should make a Christian angry.  The world’s brainwashing attempt to get people to accept and tolerate sin should get a believer mad.  

Punishing righteousness and godly living should make one displeased.  Christians live in a world where many things are done contrary to what the Bible teaches we should do, and they should get upset over that.  We should love the sinner, but sin should make us angry.

Sometimes people’s reactions to things, which may not necessarily be a sin, can get them mad.  Regardless of what upsets us, we must be cautious, as anger can lead to sin.  A Christian must always be wary of getting involved in iniquity.  One must avoid anything that may, at one point, lead one to do wrong.

For this reason, God has given us a blow-off valve so the pressures from our anger do not evolve into sin.  God’s warning is that no matter what gets you angry, make sure you get it right before the day is over.  Before the sun goes down and before you put your head on your pillow, make sure you deal with your anger.

If you find yourself angry with your wife, family member, coworker, or anyone else, make sure to address it before the end of the day.  That means someone may have to surrender their pride and discuss the day’s provocation with their spouse before bedtime. 
“Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:” Ephesians 4:26

A child may need to be apologized to because a parent’s temper got the better of them during a discipline situation.  Perhaps a phone call is necessary to re-establish a good relationship with an employee or neighbor.  If we want to end the possible consequences of improper handling of anger, it should be dealt with as soon as possible.

Failing to address anger promptly often results in hostilities and feelings being bottled up.  When one wakes up the next day, those emotions are strengthened and hardened in one’s mind.  The longer they remain undealt with, the harder they will ever be to reconcile.

Unreconciled feelings often lead to hardened, unpliable hearts.  A hardened heart leads to bitterness.  Before long, one may develop a bitter spirit towards an individual or even a group of people, all because anger was never addressed and instead it festered and grew.  

Often, the person may not even realize what has happened to him.  Anger and bitterness can fester in a relationship all because one let a day go by without humbling oneself and getting a problem resolved before the sun went down.

Perhaps, many suns have set on your anger.  The resulting bitterness has robbed you of the joy you once had. 

Every time you see a certain person or hear his name, the old, unforgiven memories churn up, and you find yourself facing the same anger.  It would have been much easier to remedy those feelings on the day it happened, but it is never too late to get your angry feelings right with another. 

Yes, it may be the other person who did something terribly wrong.  However, your anger has robbed you of your joy, and that sin may have kept you from having a closer walk and relationship with the Lord.  Get hostilities and anger right today, before the sun goes down.

“A man that does not know how to be shaken to his heart’s core with indignation over things evil is either a fungus or a wicked man” — Beecher


When Anger Is Sinful
J. Beaumont, 1871

Anger is sin:

  • When we are angry with the providence of God.
  • When we are angry with the laws of God.
  • When we are angry at the doctrines taught in the Word of God.
  • When we are angry at the good we see in others.
  • When we are angry with those who differ from us in religious sentiments.
  • When we are angry at reproof.
  • When we wish evil upon our reprover.
  • When we use unlawful means to avenge ourselves.

“To be angry is often to revenge the fault of others upon ourselves.” — Antinomy

Uncontrolled Anger
Oliver B. Greene

Alexander the Great was one of the few men in history who truly deserved his descriptive title.  He was energetic, versatile, and intelligent.  Although hatred was not generally part of his nature, several times in his life, he was tragically defeated by anger.

The story is told of one of these occasions, when a dear friend of Alexander, a general in his army, became intoxicated and began to ridicule the emperor in front of his men.  Blinded by anger and quick as lightning, Alexander snatched a spear from the hand of a soldier and hurled it at his friend.  Although he had only intended to scare the drunken general, his aim was accurate, and the spear took the life of his childhood friend.

Deep remorse followed his anger.  He was overcome with guilt, Alexander attempted to take his own life with the same spear, but he was stopped by his men.  For days, he lay sick, calling for his friend and chiding himself as a murderer.

Alexander the Great conquered many cities and countries, but he had failed miserably to control his own spirit.

When Humor Helped Keep His Shirt On
Author Unknown

In early 1952, President Truman appointed Newbold Morris to investigate crime and its management in high government circles.  Later that year, Morris was in the witness chair answering a barrage of pointed questions from the Senate subcommittee regarding the sale of some ships by his New York company.

The investigation was becoming hot and fierce.  Morris’ face took on a look of pain, then of surprise, and then of anger.  Amidst the excitement, he shouted as he reached into his coat and produced a sheet of white paper.

“Wait a minute.  I have a note here from my wife.  It says, ‘Keep your shirt on.’”

Everybody laughed, and the angry excitement died down, at least temporarily.

“A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” Proverbs 15:1

Yielding Personal “Rights”
Author Unknown

The public library had a system called “Dial-A-Tale.” Anytime a young child wanted to hear a fairy tale, they could call the number, and a voice would read a short fairy tale to the listening young ear.  However, the number was only one digit different than Rev. Tom Erickson’s number.

Because the small fingers often made mistakes, Tom received frequent calls from a child wanting to hear a fairy tale.  

After several unsuccessful attempts to explain a wrong number to the small child, Tom felt he had only one alternative.  He obtained a copy of Three Little Pigs, and set it by the phone.  Whenever a child called, he simply read him the tale.  A beautiful illustration of yielding personal rights and avoiding anger.

He didn’t, as you might have thought, change his telephone number to avoid the “invasion of his privacy”, as some might have done.

“Anyone can become angry.  That is easy.  But to be angry with the right person, to the right degree, at the right time, and in the right way — that is not easy.”  — Antinomy

Unhappy and Last Place
Author Unknown

A Do-it-yourself catalog firm received the following letter from one of its customers: “I built a birdhouse according to your stupid plans, and not only is it much too big, but it keeps blowing out of the tree.  Signed, Unhappy.”

The firm replied: “Dear Unhappy, We’re sorry about the mix-up.  We accidentally sent you a sailboat blueprint.  But if you think you are unhappy, you should read the letter from the guy who came in last in the yacht club regatta.”

The BIBLE VIEW #1004 — Don’t Quit

In This Issue:
They Kept On Despite Difficulties
In the Master’s Hand
Don’t Quit

Volume: 1004   May 5, 202
Theme:  Don’t Quit

The  Daily View is a free, daily devotion.  Sign up (https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/a26cc9M), and you will be e-mailed a link to read or HEAR a KJV chapter and a short commentary (200-700 words) of something taught in the day’s reading.  The e-mail will include a mini-sermon in pictures, a prayer list, Thought for The Day, a Bible study, and short articles reinforcing biblical principles.

They Kept On Despite Difficulties
Bill Brinkworth

Heroes of the faith have continued since biblical times.  Here are just a few of the countless faithful ones:

  • Hundreds of thousands of Christians lost their lives rather than deny that Jesus is the only way to Heaven or that the Bible is the preserved Word of God.  The unwavering faithfulness of those heroes of the faith is why the truth from the Word of God is still preached in many churches, and we still have the preserved Word of God available to us.  The testimonies of many of those heroes who died by the sword, fire, torture, and other hideous ways for their faith can be read in Foxes Book of Martyrs (1563).
  • Fanny Crosby (Frances Jane van Alstne Crosby)  March 23,1820 – Feb. 12, 1915.    Although blinded shortly after her birth, Fanny did not let her handicap hinder her from being a Christian testimony and serving the Lord.  Her over 8,000 hymns are still sung today, including: “Blessed Assurance” and “Pass Me Not, O Gentle Saviour”.  She also spent her life teaching and doing rescue mission work.
  • Horatio Spafford.  Horatio lost many of his properties to the devastation of the 1871 Great Chicago Fire and was ruined financially.  He sent his family to Europe while he stayed behind and handled some business.  On the trip over, four of his daughters died after their ship sank in the Atlantic.  Only his wife survived.  Traveling to join his wife, he penned one of the greatest hymns about having peace during a crisis.  It is entitled “It Is Well with My Soul” and has encouraged many people going through life’s difficulties.
  • John R. Rice, Billy Sunday….  These men, and many more, took a stand in the early to mid-twentieth century to stop the damage done by alcohol.  Because of their strong stand against sin, many came to church, were saved, and allowed the Lord to change their lives.  This angered many saloon owners to the point that the preachers’ lives were threatened.  Still, the faithful men and women would not deviate from telling those involved in alcohol consumption the biblical truth.  Many were saved and had their lives turned around by the strong stand of those faithful Christians.
  • A wheelchair-bound Sunday school bus worker in the Chicago area.  Many years ago, a disabled woman felt called to the ministry of busing in children so they could attend Sunday school.  Every Saturday, despite how she felt or the weather, she had someone take her to the neighborhood where she wanted to invite children.  Although it was the city, and she could not go up to most of the apartments because of the inaccessibility of her wheelchair, she either sent helpers to knock on doors or stood outside the apartment until she got someone’s attention.  As a result of her determination, many, many Chicago children got to church and were saved!

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”   Philippians 4:13



In the Master’s Hand
Deb McCoy

Lord, I cannot imagine my life apart from your grace;
Gratitude flows from my heart as tears begin to stream down my face.
These trials and hardships you have allowed for a specific good reason;
Though I don’t understand, help me to endure these afflictions, if but for a season.

Let the pathway of my heart never forsake what Christ endured;
May my testimony of Christ within never tragically be obscured.
Let bitterness and anger not hinder my course lest I stray;
May the Holy Spirit flow freely through my life each and every day.

My perseverance, my strength, and my courage are inspired by you Lord.
Knowing you as Father and Saviour is my greatest reward.
You are my creator, deliverer, provider, and guide;
Through the most painful chapters of my life, there is comfort with you by my side.

Ingratitude and self-pity have dissipated as hope has dawned again;
Overshadowed by unhindered expressions of your love time and again.
I struggle at times with insignificance, powerlessness, and even purposelessness.
It is during those times you never cease to amaze and inspire me with glimpses of your goodness.

Lord I know you have so graciously preserved me;
It is my desire to embrace your truth for others to see.
Thank you Lord for your mercy, understanding, and patience.
Your Word is my foundation to provide for all of my substance.

Regardless of circumstances help me to continually abide in your Word;
Continually seeking you alone, as there is never a prayer that has returned unheard.
My gratitude and praises no price can it measure.
Heavenly Father, you are the most gifted treasure!

What blesses my heart most about this poem is that it was written by a person going through great trials and tribulations, but she still has great faith, hope, and strength.  She writes: “My kidneys are back and forth between improving and failure.  The report on my injuries from recent falls and diabetic complications has come to the forefront of serious concerns.  My diabetes is brittle, and the shots caused elevated dangerous levels.  I see the orthopedic doctor again next week and believe I will be sent to a team of surgeons.  I am looking at multiple surgeries as the trauma from falls has caused considerable damage.  Once I meet with the surgeons, I will just need to continue praying for wisdom to make difficult decisions.  It will be rough as each surgery is very complicated.  I am just praying for guidance and peace to know what to do.  I am feeling so poorly and have too many diffuse pains competing with each other on top of the already existing neuropathy.  I push through, but have no energy.  The struggle, both physically and emotionally, seems overwhelming, I love the Lord so much, and He will get me through this!”

When peace like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well, with my soul

Chorus:
It is well
With my soul
It is well, it is well with my soul
From the Hymn “It Is Well with My Soul” by Horatio G. Spafford

Don’t Quit
Bill Brinkworth

Too many quit or want to stop when the going gets rough.  In most cases, one never really quits the problem.  One may move away from it, but it follows a person, often much of one’s life.  The obstacle is still there.

Quitters are everywhere:

  • Husbands feel they cannot handle the burden of being a husband and father and run away.  Although he is distant from his family, he is still a father and husband.  His running away has not changed that.  The problems he ran away from usually get far bigger than they originally were.
  • Wives run off leaving families and husbands; however, each is still a wife and mother.
  • Children sometimes do not like their parent’s rules.  They run away, but they still have the same parents.  They just put space between themselves and the unsolved problem that will most likey haunt them for the rest of their lives unless they stay and work out the problem.
  • Students quit school but usually have a future without training and education.  The rest of their lives are often stalled because they never learned the necessary lessons to further their lives.
  • Friends quit long-term friendships because of arguments.
  • Employees quit when they do not like what is happening at the workplace.

It usually is easy to walk away from an uncomfortable situation.  It does not take character, intelligence, or common sense to run away when the way gets tough.  Rarely is anything solved by quitting.  There will always be problems in life.  Unsolved problems have a way of following us wherever we go.

Many take their quitting lifestyle and apply it to their spiritual lives.  Here are several reasons why one cannot quit on God:

  • You cannot quit being a Christian: Once a true Christian, always a Christian.  You did not earn it.  It was a free gift of salvation if you trusted Jesus’ finished work on the cross as payment for all your sins.  However, too many quit being Christ-like.
    “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
  • You cannot quit because the enemy has nothing to offer.  There are only two sides – Satan’s and God’s.  If one is truly saved by faith, he cannot get unsaved and be on the loser’s side.
    “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
  • You should not quit because victory may be just around the corner.  Troubles and tribulations are part of the school of life.  You may be very close to passing the “test” and going on to life’s next lesson.  Do not quit now.
    “And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever.  Amen.” II Timothy 4:18
  • You cannot quit when you make a mistake.  Just get back in the saddle and try again.
    “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?  shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?  As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.  Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.  For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:35-39
  • You cannot quit now; you will miss the harvest.  Maybe your problem will be over one day, and you will reap a blessing from the tribulation.  Perhaps it will be tomorrow or the day after.  Spiritual fruit does not always come the day it is planted.
    “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” I Corinthians 15:58  Also: John 15:4.

Many times, life is very difficult.  If you are a Christian, you are on the winning side.  Do not quit now.  Victory is possible; it is a blessing when achieved and may be just around the corner!

“Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.”   Romans 8:37

The BIBLE VIEW #992 — Lying

In This Issue:
Lying Lips
Real Christians With A Trustworthy Testimony
The Boss Is Never Out!
You Can’t Fool God

Volume: 992    February 3, 2025
Theme: Lying

The  Daily View is a free, daily devotion. Sign up (https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/a26cc9M), and you will be e-mailed a link to read or HEAR a KJV chapter and a short commentary (200-700 words) of something taught in the day’s reading. The e-mail will include a mini-sermon in pictures, a prayer list, Thought for The Day, and short articles reinforcing biblical principles.


Read what readers have said about the e-mailed devotion at
https://www.devotionsfromthebible.com/what-readers-say

Lying Lips
Bill Brinkworth

From a young age, most know it is wrong to lie. Perhaps it is an innate guilt or a learned ”no-no”  from reprimands from parents, friends, or teachers. 

The unacceptance of untruths is universally frowned upon, and the bearer of falsehoods is often mistrusted and avoided. One should learn quickly that dishonesty is not an accepted behavior.

 A lie exposed has cost many future suspicions from friends, fellow workers, and casual and long-time acquaintances. Because of discovered untruths, relationships have been shattered, jobs have been lost, and even jail time has been the penalty for many who lied. 

Lying lips have cost many much more than ever realized.   God also does not tolerate falsehoods and demands people, especially Christians, be true to their word.

God’s Word, the Bible, has much to say and warn about untruths:

God and His Son, Jesus, are honest. Since believers should be like their Saviour, Christ-like, we should also be truthful.
“That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:” Hebrews 6:18
“In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; “ Titus 1:2

God hates untruths!
“Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.” Proverbs 12:22

God commands us not to lie!
“Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.” Exodus 20:16
“My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” I John 3:18

Lies are often told because of pride.
“For the sin of their mouth and the words of their lips let them even be taken in their pride: and for cursing and lying which they speak.” Psalm 59:12
“The proud have forged a lie against me: but I will keep thy precepts with my whole heart.” Psalm 119:69

Liars twist and change God’s truths to enable them to do what they desire rather than what God commands.
“Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.” Romans 1:25 

Although usually our weak flesh succumbs to dishonesty, often people may be encouraged to lie by Satan’s influence. Since an unsaved person does not typically heed God’s commandments it may be easier to follow the leading of God’s and humanity’s enemy.“Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.” John 8:44 

God knows who is honest.
“The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.” II Corinthians 11:31

A good witness of a situation should tell the truth of what was seen, heard, or experienced.
“A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.” Proverb 14:5 Also: Exodus 23:1.
“Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.” Exodus 20:16 “A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.” Proverbs 19:5
“A false witness shall perish: but the man that heareth speaketh constantly.” Proverbs 21:28 

ALWAYS be honest.
“Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;” Colossians 3:9
“Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous.” Psalm 31:18 
“That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;” Ephesians 4:22-23
“Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips, and from a deceitful tongue.” Psalm 120:2

We can lie about anything, including about being right with God.
“If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:” I John 1:6
“I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.”  I John 2:21
“Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.” Revelation  3:9

Because of the rejection of God’s will and way, our world has become one of dishonesty, distrust, misdirection, and deceit. It is a tolerated sin among politicians, police, and most people. It should not be.

Dishonesty separates many and breeds mistrust. This must stop for a society to be healed and get along with each other. Start today, especially if you are a born-again child of God. Always tell the truth!

“Your words are the most valuable possessions you have. Do they have
 great value from those who know you, or are they remembered as possibly a distortion, deception, or a lie?” 

Real Christians With A Trustworthy Testimony
Sunday School Times

In her book, Floods on Dry Ground, Eva Stuart Watt described missionary work in the Belgian Congo, and said, “Even among the enemies of the Gospel there was growing secret admiration for those whose lives were out and out for God.

The term “Bakrustu ya kweli,” was often heard from heathen lips. It means “real Christians.”  Far and wide the believers were known as men of truth and men whose prayers were answered. 

One day the paramount chief had a big court case in which a Christian was charged with hiding a Mabuda prisoner. At the tribunal, the chief said to the accused, “Tell me, did you hide that man?”

“No, Chief. I didn’t.”

Then turning to his soldiers, he said, “You liars, the lot of you. This man is a ‘Bakrustu ya kweli!’  He couldn’t tell a lie!”

“A liar is not believed even when he tells the truth.” — Cicero

The Boss Is Never Out
Sunday School Times

A storekeeper went away for the day and left a clerk in charge. A customer came in and asked a favor of the clerk, which meant he would have to do something dishonest.

“You can do it, if you want,” argued the customer, “because your boss is out.”

The clerk looked the man in the face, and said, “You are mistaken. My Boss is Jesus Christ, and He is never out!”

“Aye, sir: to be honest as this world goes is to be one man picked out of a thousand.”— Shakespeare

 

You Can’t Fool God
Granville Kleiser

You can fool the hapless public,
You can be a subtle fraud,
You can hide your little meanness,
But you can’t fool God!

You can advertise your virtues,
You can self-achievement laud,
You can load yourself with riches,
But you can’t fool God!

You can criticize the Bible,
You can be a selfish clod,
You can lie, swear, drink, and gamble
But you can’t fool God!

You can magnify your talent,
You can hear the world applaud,
You can boast yourself somebody,
But you can’t fool God!

“Of more worth is one honest man to society and in the sight of God, than all the crowned ruffians that ever lived.” — Thomas Paine

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The BIBLE VIEW #976 — Judging

In This Issue:
It Can Happen to Anyone!
Would You Dare
The Hand of God Was Against Them
What Inspired William Booth

Volume: 976    October 7, 2024
Theme: Judging

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It Can Happen to Anyone!
Bill Brinkworth

Sometimes, we can be very judgmental of a person.  We are reluctant to show mercy when one sins or makes a mistake.  However, we should remember no one is exempt from making a wrong decision.

Anyone of us could make a mistake and get involved in thievery, dishonesty, immorality, or any other sin.  It is only God’s grace and our character that separates us from those that get involved in sin.  

Peter was a prime example of unexpected, ungodly behavior.  Peter boasted to Jesus that he loved Jesus so much that he would never turn against Him.  The apostle was determined that he would lay down his life for the Saviour.  Prophetically, Jesus responded, revealing that He knew Peter would deny Him three times (John 13:37-38, Mat. 26:34) before the rooster crowed.

After an angry mob took Jesus away, Jesus’ prophecy was fulfilled.  When a woman opened the door and accused Peter of being one of the ones with Jesus, Peter denied that he was even associated with Christ (John 18:17).

Another damsel asked Peter if he was one of those who was with Jesus as he warmed himself at a fire (John 18:25, Mat.26:71).  He flatly denied any association with Jesus.  Later, another servant asked the disciple if he was one of those with Jesus.  Peter denied even knowing the Lord (John 18:26) for the third time.  A rooster then crowed. Peter, I am sure, “Gulped!” He had done what he thought he would never do.

Sin can happen to any one of us.  We can never put down our guard and think that sin cannot control or overtake us.  Do you think you are so spiritual that you will never fall?  Be careful; a rooster may be getting ready to crow for you at any minute.

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”   I Peter 5:8



Would You Dare?
Bill Brinkworth

One of man’s natural tendencies is to judge others by his measuring stick, usually himself.  Paul, in Romans 2, powerfully addresses that weakness.
“Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same thing… 3 And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?” Romans 2:1-3

Many times, when we judge others, we have or have had the same problem ourselves.  Those who have had or are still having the biggest issues seem to complain the loudest of another’s weaknesses.

It is often the ex-smoker who criticizes the loudest about another’s smoke he is inhaling.  An older man grumbles to a son about his child’s late hours coming home, forgetting how his father used to rebuke him in his younger, cohorting days.  One who recently lied on his income tax form somehow is not convicted when he judges a worker who just lied to him.  On and on our hypocritical judging goes.

God, however, knows the truth, and He remembers (Rom. 3:3).  For the born-again child of God, there is no judgment for sins.  All one’s sins are paid for and no longer remembered (Hebrews 10:17).

All Christians, however, will be judged (Mat. 12:36, Gal. 6:7, Eph. 6:8, Col. 3:24) for what they did or did not do for the Lord.  It is called the Judgment Seat of Christ (II Cor. 5:10), and it will involve reward or loss of rewards (Rev. 22:12).

Sadly, the unsaved person’s judgment will be at the White Throne Judgment (Rev. 20:11-15).  That fearful condemnation will be at the end of Christ’s 1,000-year reign on Earth.  At that judgment, the lost will be judged for their sins (Rev. 20:14).

In light of our future day of judgment before an Almighty God who knows everything about us (including real intents for doing something, what we did when no one else saw us, and all other dark secrets), our judgment of others seems so insignificant and embarrassing on our part.  We certainly want our mistakes and sins overlooked when we stand before our Judge.  Can we stop judging others and leave that to the One who knows all?

“Reputation is what man thinks of us.  Character is what God knows us to be.”



The Hand of God Was Against Them
C. Buck, 1871

Many say it is a presumption to pronounce the calamities of sinners as particular judgments of God.  A study was made of many cruel, persecuting tyrants who delighted in tormenting their fellow creatures.

The study revealed that they died not the common deaths of most men.  They suffered plagues and fatalities that were horrible and strange.  Even a skeptic would be moved by the evidence and would be apt to suspect that the hand of God was in their demise.  Here are some biblical-related examples:

  • Herod the Great attempted to destroy the baby Jesus Christ by ordering the deaths of all the male children that were in and near Bethlehem.  The historian Josephus reported that Herod had a long and grievous fever, a voracious appetite, difficulty breathing, swelling of his limbs, loathsome ulcers, violent torments, and convulsions, so much that he endeavored to kill himself.  The Jews thought his evils to be Divine judgments upon him for his wickedness.
  • Herod Antipas beheaded John the Baptist and treated Christ contemptuously when He was brought before him.  Aretas, an Arabian king, defeated Herod, and his dominions were taken from him.  He was sent into banishment, along with his infamous wife, Herodias.
  • Herod Agrippa killed James, the brother of John, and put Peter in prison.  The angel of the Lord soon smote him, and he was eaten of worms and died.
  • Judas, who betrayed our Lord, died by his own hands.
  • Pontius Pilate, who condemned Jesus to death was, not long afterward, deposed from his office, banished from his country, and died by his hand.
  • The wicked high priest, Caiaphas, condemned Christ for fear of disobliging the Romans.  He was turned out of his office by the Roman governor, whom he had sought to oblige.
  • Ananias was the high priest who persecuted Paul and ordered him to be smitten on the mouth (Acts 23:2, 24:1).  He was slain, together with his brother, by his son.
  • Domitian persecuted the Christians and was said to be the one who threw John into a cauldron of boiling oil.  The man was later banished to the isle of Patmos and murdered by his people.

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.  For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” Galatians 6:7-8



What Inspired William Booth
Walter Knight

Many Christians say they believe in the day of accountability.  However, they are as silent as the sphinx when warning others to flee from the wrath to come.

The words that had much to do with William Booth’s being a “fiery” Salvation Army preacher was the indicting, taunting statement from an infidel.  The man said, “If I believed what you Christians say you believe about the coming judgment, day of reckoning, and the eternal lostness of impenitent Christ-rejecters, I would crawl on my bare knees on crushed glass all over London, England, night and day, telling men and women to flee the wrath to come!”

The BIBLE VIEW #972 — Telling Others

In This Issue:
“You’re Forcing Your Religion Down My Throat!”
Too Late!
Bloody Hands
Verses on Soul-winning

Volume: 972      August 26, 2024
Theme: Telling Others

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“You’re Forcing Your Religion Down My Throat!”
Bill Brinkworth

Infrequently, after telling another what the Bible says one must do to know they are going to Heaven, I have heard, “You’re forcing your religion down my throat.” Often, that might be a tactic to halt what one doesn’t want to hear. 

In most cases, when someone is explaining the Bible’s way to Heaven or what the Scripture says about a subject, it is because they are concerned for another’s soul and life.  Why would anyone knowingly want another to spend an eternity of torment?  How can anyone not say anything when they know, according to God’s Word, that the person may face terrible consequences for their actions?  A caring, concerned Christian should want to do one’s best to alert any from a terrible future.  It is not “forcing” a belief on anyone.  It is a warning!

Can you imagine being on a nearby hill overlooking cars traveling on a two-lane road?  From that vantage point, an onlooker could see a distant truck swerving all over the road, from one lane to another. 

From that point of observation, down the road, traveling toward the upcoming danger, the observer could also see a car traveling in the direction of the dangerous swerving truck.  Unless the car pulls over to the safe side of the road, the vehicle may be struck by the oncoming lane-wandering vehicle.  Someone could be hurt from the possible danger the observer could see.

Would the onlooker not do his best, if it was possible, to warn the car of what may await it in the immediate future?  The vehicle could be damaged, and the driver and any passengers could be harmed or killed. 

Would he not scream as loud as possible to get the driver’s attention?  I am sure arms would frantically be waved or anything done to prevent the accident that would soon happen.

One warning another of a burning eternity in Hell or consequences of a drastic wrong decision are similarly alerting another, as anyone should do, when one sees an imminent danger.  That person knows of the Bible’s promises about everyone’s future and cares enough to attempt to keep anyone from being eternally punished or affected by wrong decisions.   At the cost of possibly being misunderstood, disrespected, or disliked, the believer bravely heralds the upcoming danger.  He is not “forcing” anyone to do anything.  He is just relaying dangers he has learned from God’s Word.

Listen to those delivering the truths from God’s Word.  Heed the biblical warnings they are sharing with you.  Their cautions are to help you.  They may be the last opportunity to prevent you from a nearby eternal disaster.

Too Late!
D. L. Moody

Many years ago, a merchant lay dying.  When the physician who attended him saw there was no chance for him, he thought it would be time to talk about Christ to the dying man.  

There are many Christians just like that physician.  They wait until a man is just entering the other world, just when the sands of his life are about to run out, and when the death rattle is in their throat before they speak of Christ to the person.

The physician stepped up to the dying merchant and began to speak of Jesus, the beauties of Christianity, and the salvation He has offered to the world.  The merchant listened quietly to him and asked, “How long have you known of these things?”

“I have been a Christian since I came from the East,” he replied.

“You have been a Christian so long and have known all this and been in my store daily.  You have been in my house, associated with me, knew all these things, and why didn’t you tell me before?”

The doctor went home and retired to rest, but could not sleep.  The question from the dying man rang in his ears.  He could not explain why he had not spoken before but saw he had neglected his duty to witness.  He went back to his dying friend, intending to urge upon him the acceptance of Christ’s salvation, but when he began to speak to him, the merchant only replied in a sad whisper, “Oh, why didn’t you tell me before?”

Oh, my friends, how many of us do the same as the physician?  We do not make the eternity of those we meet a priority, and we let too many slip through the cracks into an eternal Hell.  If we do not tell them while we have the opportunity, they will continue stumbling in a godless direction.

“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.” Proverb 11:30


Bloody Hands
Bill Brinkworth

“If when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he [the watchman] blow the trumpet, and warn the people; 4 Then whosoever heareth the sound of the trumpet, and taketh not warning; if the sword come, and take him away, his blood shall be upon his own head.  … 6 But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman’s hand.” Eze. 33:3-6

When God gave His words to Ezekiel, as recorded in Ezekiel 33:1, He first gave the prophet an example so he would understand the importance of the task he was to be given.  The parable was about a watchman who was selected and placed in a position to observe any enemy entering the country.

If the guard saw the enemy arriving in the land, he would blow a warning trumpet (Eze. 33:3).  The watchman was not responsible if any perished for not heeding the instrument’s blast in either fleeing or facing the enemy; their blood was not “on his hands”.  He was not guilty of any deaths (Eze. 33:4) if they occurred.

However, if the lookout saw the enemy coming and did not alert the people with the instrument’s warning sound, the death of any slain would be on his hands.  He would be guilty of their demise (Eze. 33:6).  His negligence made him accountable (Eze. 33:6) for their shed blood. 

God then gave Ezekiel the task to be the nation’s watchman (Eze. 33:7).  It was not so much a physical enemy he was to warn his people of, nor was he to man a trumpet and perch high on an observation post.  The prophet’s task was to take the warnings God gave him and ensure God’s people heard His words.  After Ezekiel delivered the message, it was up to the people what they did with the warnings.  The rest of the book’s chapters reveal that Ezekiel fulfilled his commission.

Today, according to God’s Word, there are no longer prophets (I Cor. 13:8), no matter what many claim.  All God wants us to know is preserved within the pages of the King James Bible for English-speaking people, so there is no longer a need for one to give us the message from God’s lips, as did Ezekiel.

However, since we have God’s Word, it is still imperative that all hear His message.  Every Christian is responsible not only for reading God’s Word and obeying it but also for making sure as many as possible hear God’s warnings.  We are to be watchmen warning of a horrifying eternity, telling of the one Way (Jesus) to avoid it, and telling all we can about how God wants us to live.  Yet, most Christians have not done what is expected of them.  There is blood on many hands!

God’s name is cursed, while most are silent.  Our Savour is mocked and ridiculed, yet not much is said.  Many live an ungodly life, yet nary a word that would help them leaves few Christians’ lips.  Most around us have never trusted Christ as their Saviour and are doomed to eternal torment, yet not a word is offered to rescue them from a horrible future.  Too many of today’s watchmen are silent! 

Their warning “trumpets” are hushed as many are never warned of God’s words.  There is innocent blood on too many hands.  Oh, that we would have diligent, bold watchmen who would sound the warnings God wants us to announce.  Sound the “trumpet” loudly as danger is close, lives are at stake, and it is up to us to sound the alarm!  Keep your hands clean from the blood of others!

“Oh, how many we have encountered could have been saved or have their lives changed if we were bold enough to share the Word of God with them!”

Verses on Soul Winning

“Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20
“And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.” Luke 14:23
“To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” I Cor. 9:22
“For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.”  I Cor. 9:19
“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” Mark 16:15
“If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.” Rom. 11:14
“Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” I Tim.  4:16

The BIBLE VIEW #958 — Christian Fruit

In This Issue:
Producing Any Fruit?
Godly Fruit
Fruits of the Flesh
He Thought He Lost His Arrow
What One Tract Did
What Can You Lend?

Volume: 958     May 20, 2024
Theme: Christian Fruit

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Producing Any Fruit?
Bill Brinkworth

Jesus likens our relationship to God and Him as to grape vines.  The vines are planted byand watered by the Father (John 15:1, I Cor. 3:9).  

The vines represent Jesus and are cared for by Him (John 15:1).  If we are saved and spiritually born into God’s family, we are the branches on the vine.

God’s watchful eye sees what, and if, we produce anything that He considers is good “fruit”.  That “fruit” is what is done to bring honor and glory to God and what helps others come to know and serve Him better.

John 15 tells more about what Jesus said about “fruit”:

  • It is impossible to have any spiritual fruit unless one is saved and in the “body of Christ” (vs. 2, 4).
  • God removes branches that do not produce any “fruit” (vs. 2), although one does not lose their salvation.  Many are professors of Christ but not yielders of what God requires of them. 

    Their power and help are taken away because they refuse to do what they are commanded.  This is why so many who have been saved but do nothing for God have no answered prayer, changes in their lives, and or leadership from God.
  • God prunes (“purgeth”, vs. 2) those that are producing some Christian “fruits.”  As a husbandman trims the branches of his fruit trees to get them to make more branches and more fruit, so does God allow testing and tribulation to produce more godly “fruits” in our lives.
  • If a Christian does what the Scriptures commands, he will have answered prayer (vs.  7).
  • God is honored and gets the glory when we produce “fruit”.  Many look at a person and know what he was before he was saved, see how the Lord has changed his life, and know that it could only have been done by God.

Many claim to be Christians and even try to produce godly fruit.  They do not fool the Father, and their hypocrisy and lack of genuine Christianity do not even fool the ungodly (vs. 6).  They are like wild grapes that have little fruit.  What they produce is very small, sour, and can be distinguished from a good, cultivated crop.

Examine your fruit.  The Husbandman is also a fruit inspector.  What does Jesus think about your “produce”?

“Sow little; produce little.  Sow much; produce much for the glory of God.”
— Author Unknown

Godly Fruit

With godly guidance and spiritually correct decisions, one’s life can produce good, spiritual consequences, as defined in Galatians:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.  And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.  If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.” Galatians 5:22-26

“If you’re waiting for something to turn up to do for the Lord, try your sleeves.”— Author Unknown

Fruits of the Flesh

What we do is often viewed as our “fruit”.  Here ares some “fruit” which the Bible says is produced from behavior that God’s leadership is not involved in:
“Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.”  Galatians 5:19-21

“The train of failure often runs on the track of laziness.”



He Thought He Lost His Arrow
W. Smith

A young boy once shot an arrow in the air.  Its flight was so high that he soon lost sight of it and failed to find where it had landed.  He spent a long time looking for the arrow in the meadow, but in vain.

Thirty years passed by.  The boy was now a man and he visited the haunts of his boyhood.  Walking around the meadow, he gazed at an oak that frequently sheltered him from the sun rays in his younger days.  He paused under the old tree and found a curious feather protruding from a hollow in the tree.  As he drew out the “feather,” he realized it was the arrow he thought was lost many years ago.

Is not this often true of the efforts of God’s children?  They speak in the ears of sinners; they give a tract; they utter an exhortation, or tell someone about the things of God.  They often do not see where their efforts’ “arrow” landed.  It is impossible for them to track it as it enters the mysterious regions of one’s mind, and they too often deem it lost.

Often, it is not lost.  It has done its work.  Either in future years or in eternity, that effort, like the long-lost arrow, shall come back to its owner, bringing a blessing and even the reward of a duty faithfully performed.

What One Tract Did
W. Smith

While journeying in America, Dr. Coke attempted to ford a river.  His horse lost its foothold, and he was carried down the stream. 

The doctor narrowly escaped drowning by clinging to a branch that overhung the riverside.  A neighboring lady helped him, sent someone to retrieve his horse, and other kindnesses.  Just before he left her house, he gave her a tract about salvation.

For five years the doctor toiled on in the cause of Christ in England and America.  Whether his tract had been destroyed or had pierced a human heart, he did not know.  One day, a young man approached him at a mission conference and requested a couple minutes of the doctor’s time.

“Do you remember, sir, being nearly drowned in the river some five years ago?”

“I remember it quite well,” replied the doctor.

“Do you remember the widow lady at whose house you stayed after escaping from the river?”

“I do and shall never forget the kindness she showed me.”

“And do you remember giving her a tract when you bade her farewell?”

“I do not, but it is possible I did.”

“Yes, sir, you did leave a tract.  That lady read it and was converted.  She lent it to her neighbors, and many of them were saved also.  Several of her children were also saved.  A Bible society was formed, and still flourishes today.”

The statement moved the doctor to tears.  The young many continued, “I have not quite told you all.  I am her son.  That tract led me to Christ.  Now, sir, I am on my way to the mission field to reach others.”

We never know what fruits we can produce when we do the Master’s work.

“Better to wear out than to rust out.” — Cumberland

 

What Can You Lend?
Author Unknown

Peter lent a boat,
To save Jesus from the press;
Martha lent her home
With genuine kindliness.

One man lent a colt,
Another lent a room;
Some threw down their clothes,
And Joseph lent a tomb.

Simon lent his strength,
The cruel cross to bear;
Mary spice brought,
His body to prepare.

What have I to lend?
No boat!  No house!  No lands!
Yet, Lord, I gladly lend
The work of heart and hands.

“When a man turns to God desiring to serve Him, God directs  the man’s attention to the world and its need.” — Brunner

The BIBLE VIEW #957- Soul Winning

In This Issue:
Tell Them about Jesus!
Soul Winning
Talking Business  Suppose

Volume: 957     May 13, 2024
Theme: Soul Winning

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 Tell Them about Jesus!
Bill Brinkworth

One of the blessings of reading the Bible is learning how biblical characters solved problems, got through hardships, and lived godly lives.  Peter is one of those personalities that can be a good Christian example to pattern ourselves after.

After Jesus left to return to His heavenly home, Peter, although sad and grieving, pushed forward to live for God.  After his humbling experience of denying Jesus three times (John 18), it seems Peter learned an important lesson from that trial.  From that time forward, the Bible shows that Peter had a single-minded purpose.  That purpose was to take any opportunity to tell others about Jesus.

In Acts 4, after being used to heal a lame man, the religious people were angered at what Peter had done.  Soon, they were questioning and grilling Peter.  Instead of getting down to their level and having a debate that accomplished little, he preached a subject he knew could have a positive influence.  He preached about Jesus and how He was the only way to Heaven.

Acts 3 found Peter among a crowd who wanted to get closer to him after God had used him to heal a lame man.  Instead of taking any credit for the miracle, Peter took the opportunity to tell the crowd about Jesus.

Earlier in Acts 2, after having been used by the Holy Ghost to heal a man, some had accused Peter and the others of having been drunk.  Instead of entering into a big discussion to defend himself, he again told the onlookers about Jesus.

In many circumstances Peter found himself, he told others about Jesus.  We, too, should model his heart to speak to others about the Saviour and how Jesus can change lives.  The great commission (Mark 16:15) God gave to every believer is to go and tell.

Every day, each one of us comes into contact with people.  If we would use those opportunities to point them to the One who has all of life’s answers, this world would certainly be a different place.

Our opinions are not always wanted and rarely change anything.  Many of the world’s solutions also do not always work.  However, when one gets saved, they will have been born into the family of God.  Their heavenly Father can then help them with any problems they face if they go to Him.

Be like Peter, take every opportunity you can to point as many as you can to Jesus.  He is the solution to every problem or trial anyone faces.

“Jesus saves.  Tell someone today!”


Soul Winning
Bill Brinkworth

When a person is saved, all his sins are forgiven.  Although God will not remind us of our iniquities at our time of judgment, the believer will be rewarded for what he did for Christ after he was saved.  Every Christian is expected to tell others the biblical way to Heaven.  Although it is the commandment most neglected by Christians, it is the one most important!  

Here is some of what the Bible says about our personally winning a soul to Heaven:

  • It is the primary way a lost person will hear about God’s way to Heaven.  “And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?  And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? … Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.” Acts 8:30 -35  How will the spiritually lost be saved unless a child of God tells them how?  Most of us who are saved were led to the Lord by someone else telling us either by their mouth or written word.
  • It will rescue a soul from spending an eternity in Hell.
    “Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20
  • It should be done in every house, as did the early church.  Door-to-door witnessing is still the way we are expected to witness.  It is how the early church grew, and it is how today’s church will grow.
    “And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.” Acts     5:42   Also: Acts 2:46-47.
  • It should be done by EVERYONE, not just the disciples, missionaries, pastors, and deacons!
    “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” Mark 16:15
    “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:” Matthew 28:19  Also: John 20:21, Luke 24:47
  • It is some of the Christian “fruit” a born-again believer should produce.
    “And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.” John 4:36  Also: John 15:16, 20:21.
  • The lost need to be “compelled”, as were the visitors in the parable of the Great Supper (Luke 14:16-24).  “Compelling” is done one-on-one!
    “And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.” Luke 14:23
  • God commands it!
    “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:  Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.  Amen.” Matthew 28:19-20
  • It is the wise thing to do.
    “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.”  Proverbs 11:30 
  • Many commentators teach that believers will receive a crown of rejoicing for witnessing and winning a lost soul to Christ.
    “And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.” Daniel 12:3
    “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?  Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?” I Thessalonians 2:19

God chose us to win as many to Heaven as we can.  What a shame it would be for a Christian to live a full life on Earth and never, or rarely, have won a soul to Heaven.

“Well, I just can’t do it,” or “I am too shy to talk to anyone” are not excuses that biblically excuse anyone from their God-commanded duty to witness.  I never met a person who thought that it was easy to witness to strangers in the beginning.  However, God always helped them when they showed they were willing to obey His commandments.

I am sure it was hard for the early church members to win souls to Christ, but because they obeyed God, their church grew.  After they witnessed to others, God blessed their church.

There are too many bound for Hell (Mark 7:13).  Do not be a selfish Christian and not share the way to eternity with the Lord with anyone.  Someone probably shared it with you.  If they did not, you would most likely not be Heaven-bound. 

Soul winning is the biblical way to get the message of salvation to others.  It still works today!  Have you witnessed to anyone this week?

“It has been estimated that probably 95% of all church members have never
led anyone to Christ!”


Talking Business
Author Unknown

A pastor was passing a big department store and followed a sudden impulse to go in and talk to the proprietor about his salvation.  Finding the owner, the preacher asked, “Mr. T., I’ve talked beds, carpets, and bookcases with you but never talked my business to you.  Would you give me a few minutes to do so?”

Being led to a private office, the pastor took out his New Testament and showed the man passage after passage about his duty to accept Jesus Christ as Saviour.  Finally, the tears began to roll down the man’s cheeks, and he said to the preacher, “I’m 70 years of age.  I was born in this city, and more than a hundred ministers and more than 500 hundred church officers have known me as you have in doing business with me.  You are the only one who ever spoke to me about my soul in all these years.”

What a sad commentary to the many who talked with that businessman.  Yet, many who have crossed our paths have never heard the Gospel from anyone, including us.

“Many Christians complain of the condition of the world today.  If they believed what they confessed, they would lead the lost to Christ, and then the world would be different!”

Suppose
“Suppose”, A tract from the Great Commission Prayer League

Suppose someone were to offer me a thousand dollars for every soul I might earnestly try to lead to Christ.  Would I endeavor to lead more souls to Him than I am endeavoring to do now for the money?  Is my love of money stronger than my love of God or souls…?

“I cared not where or how I lived or what hardships I went through so that I could gain souls to Christ.  While I was asleep, I dreamed of these things, and when I awoke, the first thing I thought of was this great work.  All my desire was for the conversion of the heathen, and all my hope was in God.” — David Brainerd, Missionary to Native Americans (Early 1700s)

The BIBLE VIEW #956 —Creation

In This Issue:
He Made It All
Three Heavens
Back to Step One

Volume: 956     May 6, 2024
Theme: Creation

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He Made It All
Bill Brinkworth

Genesis, the book of beginnings, started with an answer to a question most have.  The popular queries are, “How did life start?  How did all the first plants and animals get here?  Where did we come from?”

Many try to explain the Earth and its origins with their logic.  The explanations go from “a star blew up, and that is how it all started.”  Others offer, “Chemicals got together and over millenniums changed the form accidentally to a more complicated lifeform, then over billions of years developed into the plants, animals, and people we have today.

In 1806, Professor Lyell claimed that 80 geological theories were “hostile” to the Scripture account at the time.  There are far more today.

All the opinions have no proof to explain the theories.  Scrutinizing those explanations soon reveals no credibility for any of those suppositions.  A lot of speculation and assumptions fill the gaps where proof is non-existent.

God knew we would wonder about our origin and ensured that mankind would have accurate answers to our questions.  All that is on the Earth was not here by millions of accidents.  Simple life forms did not evolve into more complex beings.  God created it all!

The Bible documents the beginning of Earth and all that resides on it.  One can read how God created all that we are and see.  He did it all in six days, not billions of years that current “science” claims.  Genesis One explains it all:

Day One: In the beginning, the Earth was dark and without shape.  By God’s words, the dark and shapeless mass was lit up.  Although He created day and night at this point, there was no sun or moon to give that light.  (Genesis 1:2-5)

Day Two: The Earth was surrounded by water.  On that day, God separated the Earth from the waters.  He called the dividing space a firmament (the heaven where birds, clouds… are found).   (Gen.  1:6-8)

Day Three: On that day, God separated the waters under the sky further.  That division revealed dry land whereplant life He created thrived.  (Gen.  1:9-13)

Day Four: In the heavens, God created the sun to give light in the day and the moon to provide light at night.  It was on this day He also made the stars.  (Gen.  1:14:-19)

Day Five: On the fifth day, God created life in the waters, including the whales and all birds.(Gen.  1:20-23)

Day Six: Now, Earth was able to support animal and humanlife by the sixth day.  There was water, breathable air, and food to support the animals and man He created.  (Gen.  1:24-31)

Although there are numerous theories about how Earth and all on it came into existence, all the ideas boil down to two ideas.  J. Vernon McGee defined them as speculation and creation.

”Speculation” encompasses all the theories, none of which have solid proof.  How can people know how it all began?  They were not there.  Besides, the theories change from day to day, person to person, and few agree with each other.

Even inventions that supposedly measure vast amounts of time can not be trusted, as no one knows for sure how accurate they are.  How old would man’s machine declare a rock on the first day it was made?  It takes faith in mankind to believe what is claimed to have occurred, which is not very reassuring and reliable.

Creation also takes faith to believe.  However, that trust is in what God had Moses pen.  Our Creator was there at the beginning and He knows better than man’s speculations. 

A whole world of understanding becomes clear and makes sense with simple faith in what God says happened.  God said it, so believe it!

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  2 For by it the elders obtained a good report.  3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.” Heb 11:1-3



Three Heavens
J. Vernon McGee

God called the firmament Heaven.  This is not heaven as you and I think of it.  Actually, three heavens are mentioned in Scripture.

The Lord Jesus spoke of the birds of heaven, which I think is the heaven mentioned in Genesis 1:8.  Then, there are the stars of heaven, meaning the second heaven.  The third heaven is where God dwells.  So, the first layer up there is the deck where the clouds are and where the birds fly.

Back to Step One
Bill Brinkworth

“In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” Genesis.  1:1

STEP ONE: “Let me understand, you believe that all living things on Earth started when two chemicals somehow got together and changed into something more advanced?  That life changed or evolved into something more complex and developed?”

“Yes, basically, that is what happened over millions of years?”

“Hmm.  So, these chemicals got together after many accidents and failures and finally became an advanced combination of some more developed type?  Then how did it duplicate itself?”

“Well, it had to start all over again.”

STEP TWO: “So after, say 100,000 years of ‘accidents’ and returning to STEP ONE, these chemicals finally produced, by chance, a more advanced compound that duplicated itself.  Then the next step would be for this ‘duplicating chemical’ to create another advancement like the ability to sense something that may be a danger to itself, like direct sunlight that could dry it out, or heat that could kill it.”

“Something like that.  It makes sense.”

“So, let’s think this out logically.  After failing to develop a system in this chemical to protect itself, it had to keep returning to STEP TWO for 100’s of thousands of years before this ‘chemical’ finally got it right by accident.  Finally, there was a chemical that could duplicate itself and protect itself from something before something in its environment killed it.  Perhaps this developing chemical had to start all over and return to STEP ONE.

“So now to develop into something more advanced, say a motion like rolling or swimming, it would take a whole bunch of 100’s of thousands of years for this duplicating, self-protecting compound, after returning to STEP THREE, to be able to move.”

“Well, those 100’s of thousands of years may have been millions of years, they say.”

“Oh, I see, so it was probably much longer to get to STEP THREE.  I just used 100’s of thousands to make the number smaller so I could somehow grasp your theory.  By the way, is there any proof of these improvements or transitions?”

“No, I don’t believe there are any.  There are just intelligent people’s suppositions and theories.”

“Hmm.  This basic starting block had to have more developments, like feeding itself, recognition, and senses.  So conservatively, that is three more important functions, chemical changes, and a lot of returning to STEP FOUR, FIVE, SIX, and maybe even back to STEP ONE.  So, using conservative numbering, we’re up to about one million years.  Then this ‘accidental’ chemical would eventually progress into a living organism with 100’s of thousands of cells, bodily, and chemical functions added to it.  That would put us conservatively at 11,000,000 years, again using my 100,000 years as a base.

“Then if this creature, by chance and a whole lot of ‘visits’ to STEPs ONE through 100,000 were to develop into a more advanced creature, it would have more bodily functions such as cell reproduction, nerves, white cells to fight infection, chemical transportation of hundreds of chemicals, more senses, maybe some organs and glands, reproduction of tissues and all chemicals/hormones involved, brain development with its millions of cells and functions, memorization, blood and all its functions, ability to break down and disperse food to the body, and an ability to reproduce this organism that is actually like itself.   This creature would conservatively have 100’s of thousands more functions.  So after 100,000 ‘trips’ back to at least STEP 1000, plus all the original returns to previous STEPS, that would perhaps put it at 11,012,000,000 (11 billion+) years to develop.

“Then this species would supposedly change into other forms.  I don’t think anybody knows how many intermediary steps there would have to be with at least 100,000 improvements.  Say it were only five steps until it developed into a man.  That would put man’s evolving to around 50 billion)years.

“Now the human body has easily 100’s of thousands of other functions including hair growth, thousands of enzymes that control chemical and other functions, cell growth and reproduction, advanced organs, memory, sight, hearing, taste, muscles, billions of cells, millions of nerves, food consumption, fighting off more diseases, glands, layers of skins, healing abilities for most parts of the body, ability to reproduce with a male or female, …..  So that human ‘step’ would easily be another 10 billion years.  That would put us at 60 billion years — roughly.

“Oh, my word.  And if something went wrong, a disease, or accidental death, or inability to handle something in the environments development of man would have to go back to STEP ONE again and start all over for another 60 billion years.”

“Well, there’s no real proof of all these steps you said, but it makes sense.”

“And there is no proof for evolutionists’ assumptions or theories?  Hmm.  But officially, they claim man is between 2.4 and 7 million years old, of which there is no actual proof of any chemical, tissue, bodily developments of the human body and other transitionary phases (except for a few fragments of bone and certainly not even a complete skull or skeleton).  Let’s not forget that mutations of an organism, which is what they are saying have happened to the different parts of the body, have never been known to reproduce themselves. 

Also, trusting that all this happened to develop into man denies many scientific laws, such as the First and Second Law of Thermodynamics.  The Theory of Evolution is man’s idea, and not too many of these ‘scientists’ can agree with each other’s theories of how we got here without God’s intervention.  In addition, there is no proof of all these ideas.

“Man alive.  Sooo, if anyone believes any of this, they have to have a lot of faith in men’s notions.  One that believes this ‘Theory of Evolution’ laughs in the face of real science and must have more faith to believe this fairy tale than anyone I have ever met!”

My “scientific,” evolution-believing acquaintance got very quiet and had a very glazed look.

“Believing God’s explanation of His creation makes more sense, answers thousands of man’s questions, and is more scientific than man’s “science.”