Where did all the different languages come from?

One Language
by Tom Wacaster

Traveling among the various countries of the world one comes to appreciate the inspired record's account of how the multitude of languages came to exist. That record is contained in Genesis 11:2-9:

"And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar; and they dwelt there. And they said one to another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them throughly. And they had brick for stone, and slime had they for morter. And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth. And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded. And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech. So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city. Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth."

In India there are literally hundreds of dialects in addition to the various languages. The Republic of the Philippines, being situated where it is, likewise has numerous languages, as well as dozens of dialects. If asked if any of the citizens in these countries speak English, it is sometimes said that they speak a "broken English." By this we mean that the sentence structure, or perhaps even the words themselves, are not as clearly distinguishable as we might want. Of course such is not peculiar to non-citizens of the USA. I have known country folks, and even some city folks, who butcher the King's English. It is not that the citizens of India or Manila do not understand English; it is that their accent, and difference in usage of certain English words, often make it difficult to carry on a descent conversation. Of course, my Texas draw does not help the situation any. So, if you ever get tired of pushing "1" for English, or "2" for Spanish here in America, just be thankful that you don't have to listen to dozens, if not hundreds of choices before you even get to speak to an operator. But I digress; so let me return to the account of where all of these languages originated.

One must keep in mind that the confusion of languages in Genesis 11 was not for the purpose of simply creating dozens and/or hundreds of cultures; though no doubt it contributed to that. God's divine intervention was for the purpose of bringing man back into line with God's will and purpose. When God destroyed the earth's inhabitants with the flood He promised Noah that He would never bring that kind of punishment upon the human race. Don't forget how wicked the world had become in Noah's day: "every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually" (Gen. 6:5). It is hard for us to conceive of such evil. Every single word in God's description of the world at that time staggers the mind. Not only were the "thoughts" evil, but so was the very "imagination" of their thoughts wicked. Nor was their wicked imagination something that occasionally entered their mind and/or heart. It is said that it was only evil, it was only evil continually. I am within bounds when I say that there was nothing good, nothing kind, nothing even worthy of serious consideration; not only did they deserve to die; they did not deserve to live!

Fast forward now to the passage in Genesis 11. Once again the human race has abandoned God. In their arrogance they thought they could built a physical edifice that would, somehow, by their own ingenuity and human wisdom, take them into the presence of God. But their desire was not to worship God; it was to overthrow God. Please note that the aim of that pre-Babel society: "Let us make us a name" (verse 4). The focus was on self: self gratification, self achievement, self glory.

The curious thing about the passage is God's assessment of these people: "And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do" (verse 6). One assumes too much if he concludes that this race of men could somehow overthrow God. It is not that their possibilities were unlimited, but that the possibilities they sought were capable of being accomplished. One must ask, therefore, why would God confuse them, if in fact that which they desired to accomplish was good? Had not God instructed man to subdue the earth? The inevitable conclusion is that this generation of humanity wanted to accomplish something contrary to the will of God. We readily admit that much here will fall into the realm of conjecture; but it is what I would call more than simply an educated guess.

First, it is reasonable to assume that their purpose in building this tower was to become "like God." They wanted to enter into "heaven." For what purpose? Like Eve who was deceived into believing that if she ate of the fruit, she could become "like God," so these pre-Babel socialites ate the same poison from the devil and drank from the same polluted waters. For some curious reason men have, over the centuries, sought to become like God; yea to become more powerful than God! The Mormon have concocted an entire theological system that promises, "As you are now, so God once was; as God is now, so you will become." That same mindset is manifest in various "isms" of our generation: humanism, agnosticism, atheist, pluralism, et al.

Second, it is reasonable to assume that those people wanted to take others with them. Not satisfied with making the journey to "godhood" alone, they "communicated" that desire with others. Eve took Adam down with her; false teachers destroy the very ones who have escaped corruption, drawing disciples away after themselves (Acts 20:28-32). The world cannot understand why the child of God refuses to run in the same excess of riot; the faithful child of God cannot understand why the world won't just leave them alone. By confusing the languages at Babel, God immediately stopped their desire to communicate their evil intentions to others.

Third, that pre-Babel world realized the key to success. They did not stop with their imaginations. Moses tells us, "this they begin to do" (verse 6). We would do well to take a lesson from the children of darkness. Our Lord made this observation: "And his lord commended the unrighteous steward because he had done wisely: for the sons of this world are for their own generation wiser than the sons of the light" (Luke 16:8). Applying our Lord's words to the record in Genesis we learn that imagination without action spells nothing! Hard work has always been an essential ingredient to success. Most of the world knows this, but a growing number are slow to admit it. This will explain why those who seek something for nothing seems to be growing in number with every passing day.

Fourth, "one language" is essential to accomplishing some worthwhile task. Right here I am not talking about "on language" of tongue. In fact, time and experience has proven that the Gospel can go forth even in the midst of multiple languages. I have, on occasions, had to go through no less than three interpreters in one setting in order to convey the truth to all those in the audience. The "one language" that is essential to actually doing what God desires, is the "one language" of unity. The prophet of old acknowledged this: "Can two walk together except they be agreed?" (Amos 3:3). I have learned over the years, and over thousands of miles traveled to various parts of this world, that great good can be accomplished even if we don't speak "one language." But I have also learned that much evil can also be accomplished by those who "speak one language," but whose language is that of Ashdod.

Progeria Syndrome - Life According To Sam video

 "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Phil. 4:13)

The other day I watched a very inspiring video produced by a 17 year old boy by the name of Sam Berns. The reason that I was inspired by his lecture on the video was that he suffers with a disease known as Progeria Syndrome. This is a very rare disease which brings on rapid premature aging. Sam was 17 at the time of the video yet he looked like a 90 year old man.

It was his attitude, combined with some things he said about his life, that inspired me to use his lecture as a basis for our spiritual lesson today. As he talked, I was reminded of several Biblical references and for my lesson here, I’ll first give you the things he said about his life and his dreams, and then attach my scriptural thoughts to them.

The first scriptural thought that came to mind as I listened to his words, while at the same time being mindful of his physical infirmities, was something the apostle Paul revealed about himself in 2Cor. 12:7-9. Paul is saying there that he was given a "thorn in the flesh," a physical, perhaps medical problem which isn’t revealed to us, but whatever it may have been, he never let it interfere with his life of preaching the Gospel.

The title of the video, by the way, is "Life According To Sam" and in talking about his life and the things he wanted to accomplish, he gave his philosophy on leading a happy and productive life. He divided his philosophy into four main points. It was these points that brought about the majority of my scriptural tie-ins to his lecture.

Point #1. "Focus on what you can do, not on what you can’t do." It’s my humble opinion that this point expressed by Sam is a major problem with many Christians. For whatever reason, be it health, be it age, be it time or any other excuse, our focus seems to be on the things we CAN’T do rather than those that we CAN. There are lots of things found in the Word of God that I could cite on this point, but I’ll just point some quick, simple ones.

First and foremost, our focus, our attention, should be on Jesus Christ and our getting to where He is - "heaven." (Phil. 3:20) Jesus gave us a great example of how we are to "do" things, of where our focus should be, when He told us where His focus is: "...for I do always those things that please Him." (John 8:29) Whatever it is, and to what extent we’re able to do it, our focus should be on doing the things that please God. (I refer you to 1Cor. 10:13)

As to doing things for our fellow man, that can be wrapped up in what Jesus said in Matt. 7:12, sometimes referred to as the "Golden Rule": "So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them..." (ESV) Whatever our limited abilities might be, we can always do good. "As we therefore have opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. (Gal. 6:10) My last "focus" thought is the words of Paul to Timothy directing his focus to "godly edifying which is in faith..." (1Tim. 4:1)

Point #2: "Surround yourself with positive people. People who encourage and inspire you to do your best. High quality people." The Bible provides us with many, many examples of both who we should associate with and who we shouldn’t. Proverbs 13:20 says that we’ll be "wise" if we associate with "the wise" but we’ll be "foolish" if we run with "fools." Proverbs also tells us that we should "walk in the way of good men and keep the paths of the righteous." (2:20) As far as our associations, that’s about as nut-shelly as it gets.

In the realm of who NOT to associate with we can look at Psa. 1:1 where we find that we’re "blessed" when we avoid the "counsel of the ungodly" and we don’t "stand in the way of sinners nor sit with the scornful." Solomon tells us that we shouldn’t "desire" to be with "evil men." (Prov. 24:1) 1Cor. 5:11 and 2Cor. 6:14 gives us some specific examples of the type of people we should not be associated with and Eph. 5:11 sort of wraps it with the admonition to "...have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness..." Here’s some other passages pertinent to this point: Prov. 28:7 and 2Cor. 6:17.

Point #3: "Keep moving forward. Don’t look backward for very long. Have something to look forward to and strive for. It’s a state of mind and helps you to get through trying times."

I see this point as being closely related to the first point of having a focus. How many Bible passages could we come up with that teach this very principle? Answer: many, but time and space here only allow for a few.

Not only do we "focus" on what’s ahead, we have to "keep moving" in that direction. One of the lessons learned in any driving school is, that you tend to steer in the direction to which you’re looking. The one direction a Christian should always take is forward. We look forward and we move forward.

Why? Because that’s where the "prize" is. As Paul said in Phil. 3:13-14 "...I focus on this one thing; forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us." Let me remind you of two more Bible passages fitting to this point. One, the words of Jesus in Luke 9:62 "Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God." Lastly and succinctly: "Remember Lot’s wife." (Luke 17:32)

Point #4: "Never miss a party if you can help it." I’m going to apply the principle of this point to the thought that, as Christians, we should never neglect the occasion or opportunity to gather together as the family of God. Don’t you see this as also fitting point #2, the "surrounding ourselves with positive people?" I ask you, who could be more positive and encouraging to us than those who are striving for the same goal that we are?

The oft-cited passage from Heb. 10:25 about "Not forsaking the assembly of ourselves...." comes to the front of my mind here regarding this fourth point. If you research the term "forsake" or "forsaking" you’ll find that it means like "let it be" or to "leave alone." That simply infers a willful disregarding of gathering with fellow Christians. Maybe we could say a conscious effort to not participate.

What’s so bad about "forsaking the assembly" (missing the party) is that we miss all the benefits found at these occasions. We’re not available to "provoke" each other "unto love and to good works." (Vs. 24) We don’t get the benefits found in a gathering of "the saints" and our fellow members of "God’s household." We don’t get "encouraged" nor do we "encourage" others. To borrow the words of James, "brethren, these things ought not to be so." (James 3:10)

There are many scriptures that could be used that fit the principles of the philosophy expressed by Sam Berns in his video of how he dealt with his affliction. I just wanted to point out that God provided us with those principles long before Sam adopted them. It was inspirational to see and hear him talk about his life and dreams on the video. Sadly, his life and his dreams came to an end on January 10th of this year, 2014.

Ron Covey

I yam what I yam

Every now and then I run across something that just causes my editorial juices to start flowing and when that happens you end up with a lesson such as you have today. I’m sorry, but I can’t help myself. As a wise person once said "It is what it is." Or, as Popeye said it, "I yam what I yam."

What got me all fired up today is something I read about a method of teaching that reared its ugly head in our school systems a few years ago entitled; "Values Clarification." This method is closely allied to and very similar in nature to a couple of other methods called "Moral Relativism" and "Situational Ethics." Throughout the rest of this lesson, for space constraints, these will be referred to by their initials, IE: V.C. or M.R. and S.E.

Basically, "V.C." is a system which places more emphasis on behavior than the study of old-fashioned things like reading, writing and arithmetic. More importance on "beliefs, values and behavior" and less importance on what is referred to as "cognitive skills" which are things that one has to actually apply their mind to learning.

Perhaps it’s things like the aforementioned V.C./M.R./S.E. systems that are a major reason why we’ve got so many kids coming out of school that have none of these "cognitive skills." That don’t know how to read or right and their "pads" and "computers" will do all their math for them.

Could it possibly be a factor as to why the students of this country are way below or behind in these skills than students of other countries? Or, could it have a major bearing on something that really bothers me - why our youth seem to be so callous and disrespectful to others. Why they seem to be the epitome of those the Bible refers to as "without natural affection." (2Tim. 3:3)

Now I grant you that lack of home life and proper parenting plays a large role here, but systems in our school systems such as V.C. (Et al) do not help the situation. It noted in the article I was reading about this system that many parent groups have recognized the failings and shortcomings of V.C. and have attempted to get it removed from their respective schools.

It was one of their points of opposition that really sort of brought this lesson together for me. In just a moment I’ll give you that "point" but first let me try and explain the basic premise behind such systems as V.C. - M.R. & S.E. What they say is that "each person must decide their conduct and behavior for themselves according to their own understanding of a given situation."

And then they go further and say that "no one else can either make that decision for them, nor impugn (condemn or take issue with) whatever is their decision." I don’t think that this is a valid philosophy for adults, but especially not to be applied to children. OK, back to the parent’s objection to it.

They said that "every child needs to be taught a simple, direct and strict code of conduct" and that code of conduct should include "morals." AMEN to that! Isn’t that, in essence, what God’s Word says about "training" children? It’s apparent to me that the purveyors of these systems either know nothing about the Bible, or they just wilfully reject it’s teaching regarding the education of children. I’ll just cite a few of those "words" for you.

In Prov. 22:6 we see where God says that we are to "direct our children on the right path." Why? So that when they grow up, they’ll "not leave it." It certainly doesn’t say to let them decide which "path" they want to take. And God also tells us that we shouldn’t fail to discipline our children. And even if they have to have their bottoms spanked, "it won’t kill them." (Prov. 23:13)

Do you know what is gained by this "discipline?" In Prov. 29:15 we read where it "produces wisdom" in the child. But this verse also shows us the result of NOT disciplining a child - their actions and behavior will bring "shame to their mother." I sometimes wonder how much "shame" is left in our society now. Oh well, that’s a topic for a future lesson.

Allow me to just provide some equations of mine at this point. The parent’s phrase "code of conduct" equals God’s "right path." The "right path" equals how we act or behave. In blunt terms, children cannot be left to their own "path" because they have no basis for knowing a "right path" from a "wrong path."

Unfortunately, the premise seen in Prov. 22:6 also works in reverse. It a child is not "trained" (educated) to have the proper conduct and morals, they will grow up with the idea that whatever "path" they choose, whatever type of conduct they want to exhibit is OK and this result shows us the fallacy of the V.C. system.

In the curriculum of the V.C. system a teacher is to ask the students this question: "What did your parents make you do yesterday that you didn’t want to do?" I don’t know how those kids answered that, but I know how I would have.

Let me preface my answer by telling you that my parents totally bought into the words of instruction we read in Proverbs 23:13 and 29:15. Then I would answer the teacher this way: I was made to do a whole bunch of things that I didn’t want to do.

I was made to get up out of bed and go to school when I would rather have stayed there. I was made to wash my hands and face when I saw nothing wrong with them. Usually accompanied by the statement that I "looked like an urchin." Not only that, I was made to put on clean clothes when the ones I had on seemed fine to me.

I was made to clean my room (you weren’t born in a barn) and on numerous occasions I was made to "sit up straight and pay attention when I talk to you!" Probably one of the most aggravating things I was "made to do" was "do the dishes." I could go on and on about things I was made to do and on some occasions, some physical encouragement accompanied the orders (if you get my drift).

Looking back on it now, I’m glad these "systems" weren’t around when I was in school. I’d have probably gone home and tried to enlighten my parents as to their old-fashioned ways of training children and then I wouldn’t be here today providing you this lesson.

Respectfully submitted,

Ron Covey

The Greek verb energein

The Energizer Deity

    We are all familiar with the Energizer Bunny commercials. “They just keep going, and going, and going...”

    The apostle Paul writes in Philippians 2:12-13: “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”

    The verb “works” (vs 13) is energein, from which we get our word “energy.” The verb is used 20 times in the New Testament and Paul uses it 18 out of those 20 times. Paul was excited and glad that God worked in him.

    “He who worked through Peter for his apostolic ministry to the circumcised worked also through me for mine to the Gentiles” (Galatians 2:8). The word means to work “mightily” or to work “effectively.” 

    Back in Philippians 2:13, the word is a participle (present, active), a verbal noun “who works.” Thus, it becomes another designation for God - the “Great Energizer” (Hawthorne, 100).

    He's still working on me, to make me what I ought to be. It took Him just a week to make the moon and stars, the sun and the earth and Jupiter and Mars. How loving and patient He must be. He's still working on me.There really ought to be a sign upon my heart, “Don’t judge me yet, there’s an unfinished part.” How loving and patient He must be - ‘cause He’s still working on me. (Joel Hemphill)

    God wants to change our hearts. He desires to change our wills. He longs to change our behavior. When we submit to Him, He starts working on us so that we will (want) and that we will work (do) His pleasure.

    As long as we are moving in the right direction, God will work on us. He is the Great Energizer, the Energizer Deity. He will not give up on us as long as we continue to move toward Him.

    Cornelius was a good man. But he was not a Christian. God worked on his heart through the preaching of Peter. When Peter finished preaching, Cornelius yielded his will to God as his heart became submissive. Then he obeyed the Gospel (Acts 10:48).

    Lydia is another example. Lydia was a worshiper of God (Acts 16:14) but she was not a Christian. When Paul came to the riverside on that Sabbath day, he preached to her and her girl friends about Jesus. She was listening (vs 14). From that listening, God worked in her heart. The text says (following her “listening”) - “the Lord opened her heart to respond to the things spoken by Paul.” She submitted her will to the Lord and He opened her heart. Then, she submitted in obedience to baptism (vs 15).

    Don’t get discouraged when you are not as godly as you know you should be. Keep studying, keep praying, keep disciplining. He’s still working on you. Don’t get exasperated when other Christians are not as godly as they know they ought to be. They are still studying, still praying, still disciplining. He’s still working on them.

    He’ll bring it all together, one day. He’s the Great Energizer.

--Paul Holland

Climate For Church Growth

This being the first issue of "Tom's Pen" in the New Year, I thought it might be good to address something that is of importance, whether it be January or July. For the most part dedicated Christians know that they were saved to faithfully serve in the kingdom and to ultimately do what we can to increase the boarders of the kingdom of Christ. Evangelism is a part of the marching orders given to that first century church, and those orders have not changed in more than 2,000 years. Some years ago I came across an interesting article that appeared in Leadership magazine. I don't even know if the magazine is still in circulation. The primary focus of the magazine from the editorial standpoint was precisely what the title of the magazine suggested: Leadership-in evangelism, growth, service, etc. Though it has been at least two decades since I read that article there must have been something in it that caused me to enter a portion of its contents into my personal notes and file away for safe keeping. The author of this particular article was Donald Gerig; I do not recall if he was a member of the Lord's church, or some denominational church. But what he had to say was right on target with regard to principles involved in successful, growing churches, and particularly the climate that is conducive to such growth. I have taken the liberty to borrow some of his points, add a couple of my own, and provide you with some things to think about. Here are some things that contribute to a climate conducive to growth. First, a positive atmosphere must be maintained. The thoughts of the members must dwell on what God can do rather than on what humans can't do. Members must look for ways to build each other up and encourage others. (Phil. 4:8; I Thess. 5:1). Even the most casual reading of the New Testament will reveal to the honest reader that all of us need encouragement. It just so happens that the Lord's church is the greatest support group in the world for this precise purpose. An encouraging word can bring victory out of the jaws of defeat. Legion are those who, exhausted and defeated, have rebounded to great heights because of one little word of encouragement. Someone once said, "We live by encouragement, and we die without it - slowly, sadly, and angrily." A simple word of encouragement may very well make the difference between defeat and victory, between failure and success. Second, an atmosphere of trust must prevail. Trust is something that must be earned by the person who wants to be trusted. Trust is earned when one consistently takes right and proper actions in the everyday activities of life. Each of us needs to work to earn the trust of others. But we also need to demonstrate a willingness to trust rather than having propensity toward distrust or a fault-finding spirit. (1 John 3:11; 1 Cor.13:7). During the Civil War, a medic drove his wagon onto the battlefield in search of wounded. He came across one man who called out that his leg had been wounded, so the medic lifted the man into the back of the wagon and headed toward the field hospital. As the battle raged around him, the driver drove furiously, oblivious to the sounds around him. He never heard the shell that burst behind him; the wounded man in the back of the wagon was instantly be-headed in the explosion. A few minutes later, a captain rode up to stop the wagon and ask its purpose. The driver explained that he was carrying a wounded man to the hospital. Looking at the body, the captain said, "Medic, that man doesn't need to go to the hospital. He needs to go to the morgue." The driver, for the first time, looked back and was shocked to see the headless passenger. Then, shaking his head, the driver said, "You know, you just can't trust some people. He told me it was his leg!" Third, a striving for excellence must be evident. Mediocrity doesn't attract people; it repels them. It is our duty, as Christians, to do whatever we can do to the best of our ability. Excellence is achieved when each of us, individually and collectively, do the best we can with the resources available. Excellence should be apparent in all areas such as the bulletin, building, grounds, Bible school material, singing, preparation for class, etc. People often try to justify mediocrity rather than striving for excellence. (Matt. 5:48). They may call it being "average," but it seems to me that God's word teaches us that we should strive to be above average. Someone once wrote a "tongue in cheek" article about John Averageman, and concluded with a description of the biography of this imaginary man at his imaginary funeral: "John never gook a chance. He managed to develop practically none of his talents or abilities. He never became involved in anything or with anyone. His favorite book was Non Involvement: The Story of Playing It Safe. Achievements included: Lived 65 years without determination, goals, desires, or confidence. His remains will rest undisturbed by visits by friends in the ordinary man's cemetery." Fourth, the congregation must be orientated toward outreach. The main focus cannot be on the needs of the members. The needs of the members are met as the members grow and as they serve others. (Matt. 28:19,20; 6:38-48). The work of the church is to save the lost. If we lose sight of that noble goal, the church will be drained of its very purpose upon this earth. The Great Commission as set forth in Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 16:15 is not, as someone once said, "the great permission." We have been a commission to "reach out," and thus fine tune our "out reach" to those who are lost and dying in sin. Fifth, an attitude of flexibility must exist; flexibility in methods and programs, not doctrine. People must be willing to adapt and change programs and methods to strengthen weakness. We must be willing to learn from mistakes and provide an environment where the fear of failure does not kill all new ideas. Methods and programs must be adapted to accomplish the eternal purpose of the church. (I Thess. 5:21). Finally, a serving spirit must pervade all activities. Each member must make a conscious effort to serve rather than to be served. Rather than ask "What can I get out of this?" the question should be, "What can I do to help?" (Rom. 12:1-8). In his book, Showtime, brother Dan Chambers address the self-centered attitude that is so prevalent in churches today: "Modern worshippers have placed themselves at the center of worship [as is] reflected in the common refrain that they will attend public worship if churches will simply design their services to give them something they want." What a contrast to the self-LESS attitude that we are admonished to demonstrate toward one another and toward our God. We may sometimes get discouraged over the lack of growth at our local congregation, but God does not measure the growth of the church by its increase in numbers in any one isolated congregation. We know that preaching will sometimes be "out of season," and growth slow, or not at all. But in other parts of the world the preaching may be "in season," and the little part we do to scatter the precious seed beyond our local area still contributes to church growth. Never forget that while some may plant, and other water the seed, it is God Who gives the increase.    by Tom Wacaster

King George’s Christmas message to the British people during WW2

"I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year, ‘Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.’ And he replied, ‘Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way."

(From King George’s Christmas message to the British people during WW2)

Well, I’ve made it to the beginning of another year. I was awake at midnight to see the change from the old to the new but, lest you think that I stayed up for this occasion let me set the record straight. I had actually gone to sleep in my recliner while watching a TV show sometime in mid-evening and was awakened by all the fireworks going off in our area so I guess that I can say that I was up at that time but, basically, it was just the transition period from my chair to my bed.

And, since I saw the need to write a "year’s end" message for last Sunday’s lesson, I therefore see a need to produce a "year’s beginning" message for today. As we set forth on our journey into this coming year I thought that the above quote by King George, made to the citizens of his kingdom during the darkest days of the war would fit perfectly with my thoughts today and is entirely appropriate to the citizens of God’s Kingdom.

Are we facing some "dark days" in this coming year? I believe that we are on several fronts because of many signs of our country and our world becoming more and more degenerate. Allow me to just cite one of them to you: the same sex marriage performed on a float in the Rose Parade. I’ve heard more than one person ask, "How did we get to this point?" The rest of this editorial will be my attempt to answer that question.

To start off, let me direct your attention to 2 Tim. 3:1 and a warning being given to Timothy by his "father in the faith" (1Tim. 1:2), the apostle Paul. Here is his warning: "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come." Notice that he said "shall come" and not "might come." The word "shall" has the meaning of "inevitability." And those familiar with the Bible understand that we are living in the "last days."

Now I’m reasonably sure that probably every generation of people since Paul and Timothy walked on earth has believed that Paul’s warning fit them and their times. Perhaps they did, but as we look further into his warning I can’t help but look around me at my world and say that Paul had to be speaking to you and I today. Let’s just take a brief gander at the specifics that Paul warned Timothy about by reading 1Tim. 3, verses 2 thru 5.

"LOVERS OF SELF." These are people who are only concerned about themselves. They have no concern for anyone else or their opinions and ideas. Christians are to be "selfless" in their nature. Read Matthew 16:24-25

"LOVERS OF MONEY." The thought here includes the idea of "materialism." Remember the rich young ruler? (Mt. 19:16-22) His problem? He trusted his money more than God. Greed is not frowned upon today, rather it’s promoted.

"BOASTFUL." A person fitting this category is like an empty pretender. One who exaggerates their own importance. What’s so bad about this? This is a sin, a nature of those who do not acknowledge God. As a matter of fact, they’re lumped in with "haters of God." (Rom. 1:30)

"ARROGANT." Arrogance is the outward appearance of the "proud." Romans 1:30 tells us that the "proud" are also "haters of God." A good Bible example is a guy named Diotrephes whom Paul said "loved to have the preeminence among them." (3 John 9)

"BLASPHEMERS." These are the people who slander or malign both God and His Children. Think about it - if you make fun of or malign the followers of God, then you are in fact doing it to God. These are also those who make false accusations against Him and His People.

"DISOBEDIENT TO PARENTS." God’s People understand that "obedience to parents" has always been a command, not merely a suggestion. (Eph. 6:1-3) Here’s a truism that you can take to the bank - young people who are disrespectful to their parents will be disrespectful to all adults. This is not the characteristic of a Christian.

"UNGRATEFUL." King James says "UNTHANKFUL." I have to admit that this is one of the dispositions of people that seem to "gore my ox" more than a lot of other things do. We’re talking about people who are not "thankful" for anything. These are people with the "gimme everything" attitude because I’m breathing, so I deserve it. They’ve been conditioned, or raised up, to believe that they are owed the good things of life.

"UNHOLY." We’re talking about people who do not respect God or anything about the sacred. I have no trouble seeing this attitude rearing its ugly head in many forms today. I think that a large segment of our country has become anti-God and it worries me. Never forget what the words of Proverbs 14:24 says? "Righteousness exalteth a nation; but sin is a reproach to any people."

"UNLOVING." Who are we talking about here? The ones we see and read about every day in the news who seemingly have no affection for others, especially their family. The ones who have abortions or who leave babies in dumpsters. How about the ones we hear about every now and then who are trying to sell their children.

"UNFORGIVING." This is characterized by people who are always hostile in nature. They refuse to forgive any slight they believe came their way. Forgiveness is a necessary requirement of Christianity. (See Eph. 4:32)

"SLANDERER." These folks are the false accusers who don’t care about the truth of the matter. Also included are the malicious gossipers who, by their words, can destroy others

I’m running out of space here, but look at the rest of those Paul says that we’ll be living with in the "last days." Those "WITHOUT SELF CONTROL," the "BRUTAL", the "HATERS OF GOOD," the "TREACHEROUS," the "RECKLESS," the "HAUGHTY," the "LOVERS OF PLEASURE," and those who "HAVE A FORM OF GODLINESS." These are people the Bible calls "hypocrites" or actors masquerading as someone religious or spiritual. Let me ask you: "Do you see anyone fitting these descriptions among us today? Don’t bother answering. That’s what’s referred to as a "rhetorical question"

Everyone’s talking about New Year’s Resolutions and I’ve made mine. I resolve to get up at least once a day. I believe that resolutions should be keepable, don’t you? But seriously, I think that we should make a collective resolution and that is, that we’ll do everything in our power to NOT be found in one of these categories Paul warned Timothy about. Categories that we see being so prevalent today in society. I think that this new year will continue to take us farther into "perilous times" as I see more and more examples of the types of people Paul warns us about.

How should we conduct ourselves during these trying times? My thought on this: keep our hand in God’s hand and follow the advice Paul gave Timothy before warning him of the "perilous times" to come. "Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus." (2Tim. 2:1)

Ron Covey

Swimming in December

"Danger Lurking"

Going swimming in December is not something I would consider, living in Tennessee. But even if I lived in a warmer climate - say, in Southern California - I'm not sure I'd want to take the plunge after reading about an incident that happened last week.

June Emerson took her 12-year-old son and his friend to Manhattan Beach, outside of Los Angeles, on December 27. As most of us do, she took some photos while there. Later she viewed her shots, and was left breathless by one. In the foreground, a few yards into the water, were the boys; just beyond was an object underwater which looks startlingly like a great white shark!

Thousands have viewed the photo online, and most believe it to indeed be a shark, though it could possibly be some other large fish. One fellow who has used his paddleboard to take video of sharks in that area summed up the situation well: "There are two different things in your head," said Jay Dohner; "'Wow, that's beautiful,' and 'We should get out of here.'"

"Get out of here" is right. Even if you're not certain the fish is a great white shark, why take a chance? If that's what it actually is, your life is in danger. Get out of the water!

In Genesis 39 we read of Joseph, who was serving as a slave to an Egyptian named Potiphar. One day he entered his master's house to do his work, not suspecting danger of any kind. Potiphar's wife confronted the handsome young man (Genesis 39:6) and urged him to join her in an immoral rendezvous.

Had Joseph not known God's will, he might have given in. But he saw the danger: "How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9). At that point Joseph fled the house, even leaving behind the garment Potiphar's wife was gripping. (Proverbs 5 has more to say on the dangers of immorality.) He got out!

Satan is described in clear terms by the apostle: "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8). Lions have a habit of stalking their prey stealthily. Death comes swiftly to those who are not alert and watchful.

Should such talk be taken seriously? Here's what another apostle wrote: "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 6:12). Absolutely, we should take these warnings seriously! There is danger lurking. But with God's help we'll know when to get out.
Timothy D. Hall

Off-The-Cuff

The title of this week's article is defined as, "with little or no preparation; extemporaneous; impromptu: a speaker with a good off-the-cuff delivery." I once heard of a professor in one of our Christian colleges who was known for his impromptu assignment to the preacher students as they came in the door of the class room. He would hand them a slip of paper with a scripture printed thereon, and tell the student he had five minutes to prepare a short lesson. On this particular occasion a first year homiletic student was handed a slip of paper on which was written Luke 19:1-10, which passage has to do with the story of Zacchaeus. After careful consideration and meditation, the young man arose, stepped to the head of the class, and delivered his brief, but pointed outline. "Point one: Zacchaeus was a short man, and so am I. Point two: Zacchaeus was up a tree, and so am I. Point three: Zacchaeus made haste to come down, and so will I." The young boy received an "A" on the assignment. Over the years several have asked me where I get my "seed thoughts" for my bulletin articles. Sometimes I will draw upon a passage I have read or studied during the week. On other occasions it might be a news item, or even a quote that I happen to come across that is worthy of passing on to others or something on which I want to elaborate. And then there are those times (like today) when my article is sort of "off-the-cuff." For eight weeks this past summer I have wrote some additional thoughts on the subject matter being delivered in our Wednesday night class. One lesson in that Summer Series was on 'Gun Ownership' from a Biblical standpoint. I must admit that I have never written an article, or delivered a sermon on gun ownership, so I do not feel qualified to even attempt to address this subject in my article this week. But there is something about which I think I am at least a little qualified to address, whether after considerable study, or simply "off-the-cuff." Let's pursue this thought about impromptu speaking, its value and its dangers. First, the Christian is to be "ready always to give answer to every man that asketh you a reason concerning the hope that is in you, yet with meekness and fear" (1 Peter 3:15). Obviously, this requires previous preparation on our part. Study is a prerequisite to fulfilling this sacred obligation set forth by Peter. A faithful "workman" must handle the word of truth aright, which requires diligent study (2 Tim. 2:15). Good study habits will prepare the child of God for those occasions when he might be called upon to speak "off-the-cuff" about the hope he has laid up in his heart. The ability to speak impromptu is not the absence of knowledge about a subject. It is, rather, the ability to recall what has been laid up in our heart from some previous occasion. When I was a young preacher I would sit in amazement as I listened to some great preachers deliver their sermons without notes (or at least what appeared to be without notes). They were said to "preach from the overflow." Occasionally I have deviated from my intended sermon to speak impromptu on another matter that felt was pressing; but this does not mean that I was speaking without knowledge previously gained in personal study. Second, impromptu speaking is something that most of us practice every day. Do we not find it easy to talk about those things that really interest us, and with which we spend a lot of time? Why is it that some people can talk about politics for hours, but when it comes to discussing Biblical issues, they are as quiet as the proverbial church mouse? I have known members of the church who could name every player on the Dallas Cowboys football team, or the roster of the Texas Rangers, but who could not name the books of the Bible. Some can talk about fishing, antique cars, their hobbies, the weather, ad infinitum, but seem to have no interest in discussing spiritual matters. We do, indeed, speak "off-the-cuff" about those things we enjoy, and we do that more often than we might care to admit. Perhaps it has something to do with our priorities. Why not take a personal inventory and ask yourself what subjects you might find yourself talking about were you called upon to speak "off-the-cuff." Third, speaking "off-the-cuff" is an every day occurrence for those who, for one reason or another, lack control of the tongue. James likened an unruly tongue to a "fire," and a ship without a rudder. Some are quick to gossip, slander, talk about others behind their back; all of which are evil demonstrations of one's ability to speak "off-the-cuff" about the faults of another. Sadly, once an impromptu remark is made, it cannot be recalled, and a great fire is kindled by a small spark. Finally, whether you have ever been called upon to speak "off-the-cuff," let me assure you there is a day coming when you will be called upon to do so. All of us will give an account for every idle word that we have spoken (Matt. 12:36). We will be called upon to render an account for our stewardship, whether good or bad (Luke 16:2). Paul warns that "each one of us shall give an account of himself to God" (Rom. 14:12). Elders will be called upon to "give an account" as to how they watched over the flock (Heb 13:17). Peter tells us that we "shall give an account to him that is ready to judge the living and the dead" (1 Pet. 4:5). We will stand before the judgment seat of Christ to receive what we have done (2 Cor. 5:10). When our Lord comes to judge the world in righteousness, what response will I give to the Lord? Remember, there will no longer be time for preparation; our response will be impromptu. Or as we might say, "Off The Cuff."    by Tom Wacaster

The New York Giants and the Chicago Cubs National League pennant

On September 23, 1908, at the Polo Grounds in New York City, there were two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning. The New York Giants and the Chicago Cubs were battling for the National League pennant, with the score tied at 1-1. The Giants had two men on base: 19-year-old Fred Merkle on first and Moose McCormick on third. Al Bridwell slapped a single up the middle, scoring McCormick.

The game seemed to be over. But instead of tagging second base, Fred Merkle trotted off the field to the Giants' locker room. The Cubs threw the ball to second, forcing out Merkel. The run didn't count, the Giants lost the pennant, and Fred Merkle picked up the name, "Bonehead Merkle." *

ALL of us can relate to Fred "Bonehead" Merkle for "ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).  Our sinful mistakes carry much greater consequences that Merkle's because "the wages of sin is DEATH" (Romans 6:23).

But because of God's great love and mercy, our "bonehead" mistakes don't have to DEFINE us nor DESTROY us!  We can be forgiven AND receive the gift of eternal life!

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

Because of His great love for us, God gave His Son Jesus to die on the cross for our sins (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).  Through Jesus, we can have forgiveness and receive the gift of eternal life.

God will save those who place their faith and trust in Jesus (Acts 16:30-31), turn from their sins in repentance (Acts 17:30-31), confess Him before men (Romans 10:9-10), and are baptized (immersed) into Christ for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38).  God will continue to cleanse of sin those who continue to walk in the light of His Word (1 John 1:7).

By the way, there is more to Merkle's story....

Fred Merkle got another chance and went on to play for 14 more seasons, including FIVE trips to the World Series.

Because of Jesus, we CAN have a "second chance" and enjoy forgiveness and the promise of eternal life!

Won't YOU accept His offer on His terms?

David Sargent,