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XVII. Of Missions

Saturday, February 19th, 2011

I believe that the sending forth of missionaries is an imperative set forth by the Lord Jesus Christ that cannot be set aside or ignored by the true New Testament church. The Lord’s churches are not at liberty to determine whether they will have missions, but are plainly commanded to send forth those individuals who are called of the Holy Ghost to preach the gospel to every person and establish New Testament churches. Moreover, the Lord’s churches are not at liberty to determine the field of calling or duration of any particular mission by any means other than the clear leading of the Holy Ghost, which will be fully consistent with the Scripture. I believe the Lord set the pattern for evangelism, and for teaching of the Scripture to the end of establishing local, visible, unaffiliated New Testament churches that are fully grounded …

Tags: Doctrinal Missions salvation Scripture

Verse References

Romans 10:12-15; Mark 1:14-15; Mark 2:1-2; Mark 10:1; Luke 20:1-2; Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:45-48; John 17:17-19; Acts 1:8; Acts 8:4-5; Acts 8:14-17; Acts 8:26-35; Acts 11:19-26; Acts 13:1-4; Acts 14:21-27; Acts 15:35-36; Acts 16:6-12

Scriptures:

For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! (Romans 10:12-15)

Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. (Mark 1:14-15)

And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house. And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them. (Mark 2:1-2)

And he arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts of Judaea by the farther side of Jordan: and the people resort unto him again; and, as he was wont, he taught them again. (Mark 10:1)

And it came to pass, that on one of those days, as he taught the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes came upon him with the elders, And spake unto him, saying, Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority? (Luke 20:1-2)

Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 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 28:16-20)

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. (Mark 16:15-16)

Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. (Luke 24:45-48)

Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. (John 17:17-19)

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. (Acts 1:8)

Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word. Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. (Acts 8:4-5)

Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost. (Acts 8:14-17)

And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. 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? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. (Acts 8:26-35)

Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. (Acts 11:19-26)

Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus. (Acts 13:1-4)

And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed. And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia. And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia: And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled. And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. (Acts 14:21-27)

Paul also and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also. And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do. (Acts 15:35-36)

Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them. Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days. (Acts 16:6-12)

Tags: Doctrinal, Missions, salvation, Scripture
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A Missionary’s Journey

Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009

This is a guest article from Bro. Roger Jewell, missionary to the Dominican Republic. Roger Jewell’s sending church is Tabernacle Baptist Church of Lebanon, Missouri. Faith Baptist Church of Spokane is one of his supporting churches.

A Missionary’s Journey

I had a dream last night, that I was on a journey. I didn’t have the ability to make the trip on my own since I didn’t have a vehicle or the money to do so. I did, however, have some supporting pastors and friends that were going my way and helped me get started on the trip. Along the way, the person I was riding with, …

Category: Missions , Thought of the Day

Tags: Dominican Republic Missions

A Missionary’s Journey

I had a dream last night, that I was on a journey. I didn’t have the ability to make the trip on my own since I didn’t have a vehicle or the money to do so. I did, however, have some supporting pastors and friends that were going my way and helped me get started on the trip. Along the way, the person I was riding with, although the fellowship was wonderful, wanted to stop and enjoy some of the local sites.

I, however, could not stop, since I was headed back to the mission field. It was then that I saw a pastor-friend of mine and his wife who were going my way. I could ride with them the rest of the way while, while the man I was travelling with spent some time in the city we were in. I saw God’s hand each step of the journey, providing for my needs so that I could get back to Barahona, Dominican Republic.

While making this part of the journey, my Pastor friend’s wife asked me where Barahona was. I explained it to her, and she told me that she didn’t think very many people knew where it was, or knew the people we were ministering to. She told me that I should ask my supporting churches and pastors if they could find Barahona, or even the Dominican Republic on a map. She thought that if they were burdened enough to pray for the people of the Dominican Republic specifically, and support and send a missionary to these people, that they should be able to find the place on a map.

At that point, my first ride began to leave the parking lot I was in. I was sad to see him leaving. At that moment I found out that my pastor-friend wasn’t prepared to leave the city right away either, but needed to spend a few days where we were before moving on. I couldn’t wait, however. I needed to continue my journey to get back home to my family and the work I had to do. My heart sank as I saw one vehicle pulling away, and know that the friend I thought would take me the rest of the way wasn’t going to do so.

I had to get to my destination as soon as possible, but I still had a long journey ahead of me. I decided to take a Grey Hound bus the rest of the way. It wasn’t very comfortable and the people I spoke with didn’t know the Lord or understand why I was taking this journey. Many times it was cramped, and it seemed to go much slower than I was travelling before. I then realized how much I depend on our Pastors and our friends to help us along the way. At this point I awoke and decided to write down my dream before I forgot it.

We cannot do anything well without the help of our supporting churches. As a missionary, we live completely by faith. Our support comes in each month only by the grace of God. If a church decides not to help us one month with their support check, or by praying for us, we will feel the pinch. We have begun a journey together, and I hope that we will finish it together. There is a great work that needs to be done here in the Dominican Republic, and around the world. The people here are ignorant, for the most part, of the Word of God and of salvation. They are wondering around as blind men. I know that God has placed me here to help them see the truth, but it seems, at times, like they prefer their blindness to perfect sight.

It is hard work, and I get discouraged at times, but I know that our supporting pastors and churches are praying for us. We aren’t travelling alone, but have you to take the journey with us. Please keep us in your prayers. I hope you will be able to find where we live and minister on a map as easily as you could find the state you are living in. There is no such thing as a missionary that is all alone in the work. We are all dependent upon the prayers, financial support and vision of those who help us in our ministry. We are men and women of faith who have stepped out on the end of a limb to do the work of God in foreign fields because we know that you are holding onto us, and will not allow us to fall to our hurt.

I walked into the living room of my house the other day to find my 9 year old sitting on the couch with my wife. He had tears in his eyes, and was telling my wife that he wants to have friends that he can talk with (in his own language) and play with. My heart broke for him, and for the rest of my children, because I know they all want the same thing. I told him that God has brought us here to help these people get saved, and that he will learn Spanish well, and will have friends here. I could see that my wife wanted to tell him the same thing, but she knows that our 9 year old also has to sacrifice what he “could have had” to be a missionary’s kid on a foreign field.

We will be fine, but we cannot make the journey alone. We need you to help us in the journey, in fellowship, in financial support and most importantly, in prayer. The apostle Paul wrote in Philippians chapter 4 verses 10-13, “But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

We missionaries can do the work, but we can’t do it alone. We need the power of God upon our lives and our ministry, and we need good churches that will help us in the journey. May God bless you for your faithfulness. Thank you for all of your help in this great work that God has called us to. I hope we will be travelling companions until we reach our Father’s house, and can rest from our journey together.

Roger Jewell

Tags: Dominican Republic, Missions
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Home Missions

Monday, January 14th, 2008

… at anything if we bail them out every time they fail. Rather, what I am getting at here is a set of mind that never seems to want to attend to those immediately about us, yet sees no problem in generously, repeatedly bailing out people halfway around the world.

You know, it is the same with Missions. As a fundamental, unaffiliated, Baptist, I expect for local churches to support missionaries directly through the church that sent the missionary. That way, 100% of the support given is received by the missionary in the field. That is rightly and properly the way it should be. However, this is where the sensible thinking seems to end. You see, there is a heavy bias for supporting missionaries to foreign fields, and little to nothing given in the way of support for missions right here in America. In this regard, fundamental, unaffiliated Baptist churches parallel the rest of …

Tags: America Baptists Home missions

We live in a funny country. I don’t mean that in the way of humor, but that Americans have a funny way of thinking. I say this because I see it every day in the job I have, in the community I live in, and particularly among the Baptist brethren who believe as I do.

What is it that is so strange about the way we think? Consider this: We think it is a commendable thing to feed people half a world away, yet will not attempt to insure that all Americans eat. Now, I know that this is a free country, and you are free to succeed, and to fail. If you succeed, well and good. If you fail, you must bear it. I don’t have a problem with that, and I believe that individuals will never work at anything if we bail them out every time they fail. Rather, what I am getting at here is a set of mind that never seems to want to attend to those immediately about us, yet sees no problem in generously, repeatedly bailing out people halfway around the world.

You know, it is the same with Missions. As a fundamental, unaffiliated, Baptist, I expect for local churches to support missionaries directly through the church that sent the missionary. That way, 100% of the support given is received by the missionary in the field. That is rightly and properly the way it should be. However, this is where the sensible thinking seems to end. You see, there is a heavy bias for supporting missionaries to foreign fields, and little to nothing given in the way of support for missions right here in America. In this regard, fundamental, unaffiliated Baptist churches parallel the rest of American society – we care for those on the other side of the globe, and ignore the folks just down the road.

As one who is directly involved in a home mission, this is disconcerting to me, though I have know it for years. Of course, it was disconcerting when I discovered it years ago. How I found out was through a newsletter put out by a Baptist ministry in the western states of Wyoming and Nebraska. This ministry is one of providing preachers to go through the small communities and towns in the rural West and preach the gospel where there were no established churches, and no Bible preachers. One of the greatest needs they have is the support of churches to accomplish the burden the LORD God laid upon them for the rural people of the West.

It is no different for any home mission. It is difficult to establish a church and conduct a ministry when one works full time, and then conducts the work of the ministry during the evenings and Saturdays, with Sunday dedicated to conducting services.

Why is it this way? Because this is America! Don’t you know, just start a church and they will come! No, I’m not being flippant, or a smart-aleck. What I have seen among brethren is an underlying attitude that somehow home missions will just take care of themselves, and they really don’t need the support a foreign missionary needs. After all, any home missionary can get a job, and provide for his needs that way and conduct the ministry on the side. Yes, that is actually the attitude of many pastors and brethren in this country. It is utterly shameful and really does help the Devil accomplish his purpose of taking this country straight to Hell. There is a decided lack of understanding that America is one of (if not the) most difficult mission fields in the world.

Now, if you read this, and your attitude toward home missions and missionaries is what is described above, I have some questions for you:

Which do you think is the greater sin:

Allowing someone halfway around the world to go to Hell because they didn’t have the gospel preached to them?

Or allowing someone in the town just down the road to go to Hell because you don’t think home missions require support?

If you don’t support home missionaries to plant proper churches in this country; how long do you think it will be before there are not enough proper churches to send missionaries overseas?

And finally, if we don’t work to save our own country, how can we save the rest of the world?

Tags: America, Baptists, Home missions
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Missions Conference

Wednesday, October 8th, 2008

My home church, Faith Baptist Church of Spokane, Missouri, is holding its annual Missions Conference the 22nd through the 26th of October (Wed. through Sun.). Services will be held every evening, with dinner and an afternoon service on Sunday. Each day there will be a different missionary presenting the field to which they are sent.

The purpose of the conference is to focus on missions and show different mission works. It is a strong reminder of why we are here that encourages the members to stay focused on mission work, both here and abroad.

The directions to the church are here.

If you are near the Springfield/Branson area (or even if you are not), or if you are …

The purpose of the conference is to focus on missions and show different mission works. It is a strong reminder of why we are here that encourages the members to stay focused on mission work, both here and abroad.

The directions to the church are here.

If you are near the Springfield/Branson area (or even if you are not), or if you are passing through, you are most welcome to attend.

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Answer 10: 27 proofs of “The First Church”

Wednesday, September 28th, 2011

10. They had a missionary program (Matt. 10:1 —

And so did Israel. As a matter of fact, since the gospel has always been the same, and the Lord has always used men to preach the gospel to men, missions have always been a fact of life for those in service to the Lord. Howsoever:

And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. (Romans 10:15-18)

Or course, the …

10. They had a missionary program (Matt. 10:1 —

And so did Israel. As a matter of fact, since the gospel has always been the same, and the Lord has always used men to preach the gospel to men, missions have always been a fact of life for those in service to the Lord. Howsoever:

And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. (Romans 10:15-18)

Or course, the cited passage comes from Isaiah, which states it thus:

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! (Isaiah 52:7)

Now, consider what is stated above:

“their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.”
What are “good tidings of good”?
What is meant by the phrase “publisheth salvation”?

I really think the Lord gave Israel a missions program, and they were missionaries to the entire world. After all, that is what the Scripture states in both the New and Old Testaments. However, simply having a missionary program doesn’t make anyone in the Old Testament a member of a New Testament church, and it is not proof that at the time referenced in Matthew 10 they were a church either. Moreover, lots of organizations today have missionary programs, and they bear no resemblance to the church described in the New Testament.

Tags: Baptists, church, S.E. Anderson, salvation, Scripture
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Statement of Faith

Friday, February 4th, 2011

… unfermented blood of the grape (wine), commemorate together the death of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. The Lord’s Supper is not open to anyone who is not a member of that particular local church, and is always to be preceded by a solemn self-examination. More...

XVII. Of Missions

I believe that the sending forth of missionaries is an imperative set forth by the Lord Jesus Christ that cannot be set aside or ignored by the true New Testament church. The Lord’s churches are not at liberty to determine whether they will have missions, but are plainly commanded to send forth those individuals who are called of the Holy Ghost to preach the gospel to every person and establish New Testament churches. More...

XVIII. Of the Preservation of the Saints

I believe the born-again believer is eternally secure in Christ, and reject the false …

Historically, a Statement of Faith is the declaration of what a church or an individual believes concerning the major doctrines of the Holy Bible. Statements of Faith have been used primarily to declare one’s adherence to Scripture, both for the adversary and the brethren. As such, Statements of Faith have been used as a means of answering the accuser and extending the hand of fellowship to brethren in declaring like faith and order. In these things, this Statement of Faith is no different.

To the end of achieving that dual purpose, the following is the synopses of what I believe concerning certain major scriptural doctrines. Currently this Statement of Faith contains 25 points of doctrine that are deemed to be the most crucial to declaring what I believe and determining adherence to Scripture. This Statement of Faith was borne out of the Statement of Faith of the first proper New Testament church that I was a member of, but has been rewritten and the Scriptural support for the Statement strengthened. This basic Statement will not change, however certain items may be added as circumstances warrant. Moreover, I believe that a Statement of Faith ought to be a teaching tool. In furtherance of that goal, each article is linked to its own page, in which it is further clarified by the addition of Scriptures. In the future, explanations of how each verse supports the doctrine will be added.

I do strongly encourage every born-again child of God to set forth their own Statement of Faith from the Scriptures. Even if you simply put the synopses in your own words, and search out and study each and every one of the verses and passages used to support the tenets of doctrine, you will find that it is an excellent way to grow in the knowledge of the LORD God and His word.

In Christ,

Paul W. Davis

I. Of the Scriptures, or Holy Bible: I believe that the Holy Bible was written by men that were supernaturally inspired. The Scriptures are the truth without any admixture of error for their matter. They are, and shall remain to the end of the age, the only complete and final revelation of the will of God to man. The Holy Bible is the true center of Christian union. The Scriptures are the only standard by which all human creeds, conducts and opinions are to be presently judged, and will be judged at the day of the LORD. More . . .
II. Of the One and Only True God: I believe that there is one, and only one, living and true God. The one true God is the LORD God as He has revealed Himself in the Scriptures. The LORD God is a self-existent, infinite, intelligent Spirit, the maker and supreme ruler of heaven and earth. As such, and by virtue of this fact, all things and persons in every place and time, both spiritual and physical are His property. He is present in all places at all times, which is from everlasting to everlasting, and nothing is or can be hid from His knowledge. The LORD God is infinite in knowledge, wisdom and understanding, and in power and presence. More . . .
III. Of the Lord Jesus Christ: I believe The Lord Jesus Christ is the Word fulfilling the office of the Son, and is the appointed Lamb of God. The Word is the second Person of the Godhead and is the Creator and Sustainer of all creation. The Word, when He took the office of the Son, did not lose His equality with the Father, but made Himself subject to the authority of the Father. In so doing He became the only begotten Son of God and the Lamb of God. This was done in order to effect the redemption of man, and is utterly necessary for our salvation. The Lord Jesus Christ is thus the only Saviour of man, and there exists no other means of salvation; no other means of reconciliation with God. More . . .
IV. Of the Holy Ghost: I believe that the Holy Ghost is a divine person, fully equal with the Father and the Word and is of the same nature, will and intent. The Holy Ghost is infinite in power, presence and in knowledge and is from everlasting to everlasting. The Holy Ghost was present and active in the creation and is the agent in the new birth. His continuing relationship with the unbelievers in this world is to convict them of sin, of the righteousness of God, and of judgment. In His work he restrains the power and influence of the Devil until the time appointed by the LORD God for the Antichrist to rule upon the earth. He bears witness to the truth of the Gospel when it is preached and testimony of it is given. More . . .
V. Of the Devil, or Satan: I believe that Satan is a spiritual person who was at one time known as the angel Lucifer. He was created righteous and holy, perfect in all his ways to hold one of the highest positions in heaven: as one of the covering cherubs of the throne of God. Being created with great intelligence, wisdom, beauty and ability in music, he became full of pride, lost his righteousness, and attempted to overthrow the throne of God. In his rebellion he deceived a third of the host of heaven into following him. As a result of his rebellion, he lost his position in heaven and was cast out. Now, he is known as the Devil, the dragon, the prince of the power of the air, and the god of this world. More . . .
VI. Of the Creation: I believe in the Genesis account of creation, and that it is to be accepted literally, and not allegorically or figuratively; that man was created directly in God’s own image and after his own likeness. I hold that all of creation was not, and is not a matter of evolution or evolutionary change of species, or development through interminable periods of time from lower to higher forms; that all animal and vegetable life was made directly, and God’s established law was and is, that they should bring forth only “after their kind.” More . . .
VII. Of the Fall of Man: I believe that man was created in innocence under the law of his Maker. That the LORD God created man in a righteous state. That Adam’s righteousness was finite, and thus required the LORD’s guidance. However, Adam voluntarily chose to transgress the command of God, and in so doing, fell from his sinless and happy state. Thus, all men, being the descendants of Adam, are born with a nature to sin, and so exercise that propensity by choice at the first opportunity. More . . .
VIII. Of the Virgin Birth: I believe that Jesus Christ was begotten of the Holy Ghost in a miraculous manner; born of Mary, a virgin, as no other man was ever born or can be born of woman, and that He is both the Son of God, and God the Son. More . . .
IX. Of the Atonement for Sin: I believe that the salvation of sinners is wholly of grace, though the mediatorial offices of the Son of God. The Lord Jesus Christ, by the appointment of the Father, freely took upon Himself our nature, yet without sin. He honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and by His death made a full and vicarious atonement for our sins. His atonement was not in setting us an example by His death as a martyr, but was the voluntary substitution of Himself in the sinner’s place, the just dying for the unjust, the Lord Jesus Christ bearing our sins in His own body on the tree. And, having risen from the dead, He is now enthroned in heaven and uniting in His wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfection. More . . .
X. Of Grace in the New Creation: I believe that in order to be saved, sinners must be born again. This work of God is not by coercion, but by a person’s voluntary obedience to the gospel upon conviction of the Holy Ghost. This event is called the new birth and begets a new creature in Christ Jesus. Moreover, that it is instantaneous and not a process and that in the new birth the one dead in trespasses and in sins is made a partaker of the divine nature and receives eternal life, the free gift of God. This new creature is brought about in a manner above our comprehension, not by the will of man, but wholly and solely by the power of the Holy Ghost in connection with divine truth. More . . .
XI. Of the Freeness of Salvation: I believe in the election of God’s grace. Through this grace, salvation and its blessings are made free to all by the gospel. It is the incumbent and immediate duty of all to accept salvation by a cordial, penitent and obedient faith. There is nothing to prevent the salvation of the greatest sinner on earth but his own inherent depravity and voluntary rejection of the gospel. It is this rejection of the gospel which will involve him in an aggravated condemnation. More . . .
XII. Of Justification: I believe that no man may stand before the LORD God, except that they are justified in His sight. Justification means that one’s righteousness is equal to the righteousness of the LORD God, so that in all things one is as righteous as God. This justification is not possible, nor is it found in anyone or anything except the Lord Jesus Christ, and that by His work of atonement on the cross and subsequent resurrection. Justification is granted to all, who in repentance and faith, place their full trust and confidence in the Lord Jesus Christ and His shed blood. More . . .
XIII. Of Faith and Repentance: I believe that Faith and Repentance are granted by the grace of God, and are solemn obligations and requirements for salvation. Without faith, it is impossible to understand the truth of the word of God, or to come to God in any meaningful manner. By the instrument of faith one understands their position before the LORD God as a sinner under condemnation. Through faith, one also comes to the understanding of who the Lord Jesus Christ is, and the atonement for sin and gift of eternal life He offers. More . . .
XIV. Of the Church: I believe that the church the Lord Jesus Christ established on this earth is a type or kind that consists of a local body of baptized believers bound together by covenant between each and every individual and the Lord Jesus Christ for the spread of the gospel and the maintenance of the doctrine of the Scriptures. As such, each and every local congregation is the New Testament church, and is the body of Christ for that locale. The church is not, and does not consist of all believers everywhere, neither does it consist of all the churches collectively or universally. The New Testament church has only one head, which is the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. More . . .
XV. Of Baptism: I believe that proper New Testament baptism solely consists of immersing the believer fully in water; and that this is done in the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, by the authority of the local church. As such, it is an ordinance of the local church that cannot be set aside, or taken lightly. The purpose of this is to show forth a solemn and beautiful emblem of faith in the crucified, buried and risen Saviour. Though it is not effectual for salvation, More . . .
XVI. Of the Lord’s Supper: I believe the Lord’s Supper is the second of the two ordinances of the local church, in which the members of the church, by the sacred use of unleavened bread and the unfermented blood of the grape (wine), commemorate together the death of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. The Lord’s Supper is not open to anyone who is not a member of that particular local church, and is always to be preceded by a solemn self-examination. More . . .
XVII. Of Missions: I believe that the sending forth of missionaries is an imperative set forth by the Lord Jesus Christ that cannot be set aside or ignored by the true New Testament church. The Lord’s churches are not at liberty to determine whether they will have missions, but are plainly commanded to send forth those individuals who are called of the Holy Ghost to preach the gospel to every person and establish New Testament churches. More . . .
XVIII. Of the Preservation of the Saints: I believe the born-again believer is eternally secure in Christ, and reject the false doctrines of Calvinism and Arminianism. The Scripture is plain that the believer’s security is not based upon any works of righteousness the believer does, or could do, nor is it based upon being preselected or predestined for salvation. Rather, it is based solely upon the work of the Lord Jesus Christ within the covenant established between the Father, the Word and the Holy Ghost. More . . .
XIX. Of Liberty of the Conscience: I believe that liberty of the conscience, which is the liberty of the soul to freely choose what one will believe and accept, is essential for the individual to be accountable before God for the choices that are made and actions that are taken. I believe that the LORD God, in creating men and angels with a free will, bestowed upon us liberty of the conscience, and it is His desire that it be no other way. Howsoever, it is also the LORD’s express will that all men be reconciled to Him through Christ Jesus so that the original design of man is fulfilled, . . . More . . .
XX. Of the Grace Of Giving: I believe that tithes and offerings are ordained of God for the provision of the ministry and spread of the gospel. The giving of tithes and offerings is not, nor has ever been for the establishment of righteousness, rather it demonstrates the individual’s recognition of the provision the LORD God has made for our very existence, and is an acknowledgment that all things belong to God. As such, the tithe is a basic form of worship that all believers ought to partake of. More . . .
XXI. Of the Righteous and the Wicked: I believe that the true distinction and difference between the righteous and the wicked exists in the soul of the individual. The determining factor between those who are righteous and those who are wicked is whether they have the nature of Christ, or the nature of Adam, in the inner man. This distinction ought to be visible in outward appearance and action, but outward appearance and behavior are not the standard by which the LORD God determines who is and is not justified in His sight. More . . .
XXII. Of Government: I believe governments are ordained of God as a result of man’s wicked, sinful and rebellious nature. Government is necessary for the good order and beneficial interest of all mankind. A government reflects the society it governs as it is the LORD God that raises up the leadership of a nation for either the blessing, or judgement of that nation. I believe government is authorized by God to judge those under it, even to bring the penalty of death upon they that shed the blood of others without cause. More . . .
XXIII. Of Christian Citizenship: I believe that the citizenship of the born-again believer is in the kingdom of God. This kingdom is not an earthly kingdom, rather it is a spiritual kingdom that is greater than any and all nations, states and governmental authorities of this world. Indeed, all authorities are less than the authority of kingdom of God. As such, the believers only responsibility is to the kingdom of God. In this, the LORD God has commanded the believer to be obedient to the laws of the earthly authorities and to serve them to the extent that it is not contrary to their service to the LORD. More . . .
XXIV. Of the Resurrection: I believe that the Lord Jesus Christ was bodily resurrected on the third day as the Scriptures plainly state. That this resurrection was not only for our justification, but also as the firstfruits of the resurrection to come; in which the body of the believer will be changed from sinful flesh to a sinless body so that the believer will be righteous as Christ is righteous, and be forever sealed in that righteousness. I believe that upon Christ’s return prior to the Great Tribulation, those who are dead in Christ will rise first, . . . More . . .
XXV. Of the Return of Christ and Related Events: I believe in the imminent and personal return of the Lord Jesus Christ to resurrect those that sleep in Christ and catch up, or rapture His church and those that are alive in Christ. This event immediately precedes the time of Jacob’s trouble called the Great Tribulation, in which Israel will be called again to witness to the world of the salvation that is in Christ, and in Him alone. This witness is accompanied at different times by an angel preaching the everlasting gospel and two chosen witnesses. During this time the world will experience the judgement and wrath of God for its rejection of Him. More . . .

Tags: Doctrinal, salvation, Scripture
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Doing It By the Book

Sunday, January 2nd, 2011

… published regulations for the operation of the airframe he flew. He repeatedly violated Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR’s) and Air Combat Command (ACC) regulations for the safe operation of aircraft. Granted, Air Force aircrews and especially pilots are given leeway for the conduct of their missions. However there is a point, even in combat, that you may not cross without being subject to considerable examination and discipline. This officer crossed that line many times before it caught up with him.

The second notable thing that went wrong was also apparent years prior to the incident. This pilot had not been properly disciplined by his superiors for his failure to comply with the regulations, even though they fully knew of his violation of those regulations. In one instance, his superiors observed him clearly violate regulations in front of thousands of subordinates and …

The 24^th of June 1994 was one of those pretty, early summer days in eastern Washington state. At Fairchild AFB, there was an Open House air show soon: Today was the perfect day to practice aerial maneuvers to demonstrate the flying capability of the B-52 Stratofortress, Fairchild’s primary mission aircraft.

As a weapon of war, the B-52 is a fearsome tool. It is capable of flying thousands of miles unrefueled, and nonstop circumnavigation of the world with aerial refueling. It carries 30 tons of iron bombs, air-launched cruise missiles, and free-fall nuclear weapons. This aircraft has participated in several modern wars and conflicts. Most often the enemy doesn’t even know it is there until their world falls apart under the rain of 2000 lb. bombs. It is capable of striking in any weather, at all hours. Truly, it is a war machine of the first order.

However, one ingredient makes, or breaks the effectiveness of the B-52: The crew. From the pilot to the gunner, every crew member (there are normally six) must perform their respective tasks exactly as taught and within the guidelines of the various regulations that govern Air Force heavy bomber operations.

At 1358 hrs. local time, a B-52 with the call-sign of Czar-52 rolled down the runway and became airborne. By all accounts, what followed in the next 18 minutes, was indeed a wild ride for a B-52. At 1416 hrs. local time, Czar-52 departed controlled flight and impacted the ground destroying the aircraft and killing the entire crew.

There are some interesting facts that surround this incident. For instance: The pilot was a Lieutenant Colonel with very high flight time. He had more than 5,200 hours in the pilot’s seat of a B-52. This is equal to over 650 8 hr. days of flying. He was also the Chief of the Standards and Evaluation Branch (StanEval in USAF terminology) which is responsible for insuring that all aircrews in the Wing are properly trained and proficient at flying the Wing’s B-52′s and KC-135′s. This pilot also had a perfect 31-0 record for his “checkrides,” those proficiency evaluation flights that every Air Force pilot must undergo periodically (usually about twice a year, sometimes more). As one individual put it “Bud was probably the best B-52 pilot that I know in the wing and probably one of the best, if not the best within the command. He also has a lot of experience in the CEVG which was the Command Stan Eval … and he was very well aware of the regulations and the capabilities of the airplane (emphasis added).”¹

So what went wrong?

What went wrong is an interesting parallel to the spiritual war that we fight for our witness and testimony. If we were to evaluate what the Lt Col. did in light of warfare, and subsequent impact upon the Air Force as a whole, and Fairchild AFB in particular with regard to their warfighting capabilities; we would have to say that the pilot, despite all of his talents for flying, did more for the enemy than he did for the Air Force. In the final analysis, an Air Force Lt. Col. assisted the enemy by the destruction of a strategic asset (the B-52), the killing of four highly skilled aircrew, the demoralizing of the entire command structure of an Air Force base, and the loss of confidence of the civilian community in those that are supposed to defend this nation.

In all, a guerrilla fighter opposed to the United States could not wish for better results.

The first of what went wrong was apparent years before the fatal incident. Repeatedly in the reports, it is mentioned that the pilot violated published regulations for the operation of the airframe he flew. He repeatedly violated Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR’s) and Air Combat Command (ACC) regulations for the safe operation of aircraft. Granted, Air Force aircrews and especially pilots are given leeway for the conduct of their missions. However there is a point, even in combat, that you may not cross without being subject to considerable examination and discipline. This officer crossed that line many times before it caught up with him.

The second notable thing that went wrong was also apparent years prior to the incident. This pilot had not been properly disciplined by his superiors for his failure to comply with the regulations, even though they fully knew of his violation of those regulations. In one instance, his superiors observed him clearly violate regulations in front of thousands of subordinates and civilians at a previous Open House air show. Nothing was done to make this officer aware of his error.

Third: The officer had an open avowed goal that was clearly in violation of every regulation that existed for the operation of heavy aircraft. What was this goal? To roll a B-52 Stratofortress. His reason? It had never been done. His motivation was purely of pride. Indeed, he had a ‘self before service’ attitude. He had his goals, and the Air Force was his vehicle to achieve those goals.

The parallels ought to be clear by this point. First, just as the pilot had published directives to follow, so do we. Only ours are much more significant that simply flying an airplane safely. We deal with the truth of God’s kingdom and the souls of men. The pilot of a B-52 only deals with the portion of the mission to which he is assigned.

What effect does it have upon us when we fail to follow the rules God laid down in His word? Yes, we may think we ‘get away with it’ when we play around with evil and wicked things with no immediately apparent consequence. However, sin is still sin, and no matter how small the wilful violation of God’s commandment is, there will be repercussions. The LORD may allow it to take years for our sin to take its full toll; but when it does we will pay dearly for it. What was it Bro. Charlie Ashcraft said? “Sin will take you further than you want to go. Keep you longer than you want to stay. And make you pay more than you want to pay.”

What effect does it have upon the congregation when one of the members is in gross sin and nothing is done? In church after church, discipline is being let go because ‘We just don’t want to be mean’ or ‘It’s unkind to point out someone’s sin’ or ‘That’s just not love’ despite the fact that the LORD has commanded that discipline be done to maintain purity and truth in His church. What effect does it have when the leadership fails to watch over the flock and remove someone for heresy, or apostasy? The effect of the failure of the leadership of Fairchild AFB to discipline the pilot in question led to the younger pilots trying to emulate the Lt. Col.’s flagrant flying practices, and almost caused the loss of a B-52 at a Canadian air show. Likewise in the congregation, people follow what they see in the leadership. In fact, it is that way in every organization; the leadership sets the tone for how things will be done, and how well the doctrines and practices will be followed.

What effect does it have upon those around us when we have decided we have a goal that is incompatible with God’s will, and yet we set about to accomplish that goal regardless? When we have no regard for the LORD’s will for our lives, the covenant to which we have entered, and the effect upon those around us; we have become enemies of the LORD, of the covenant, and of the congregation and have set ourselves as a god. This is what happened to the pilot in question. He became his own god. His goal was more important than fulfilling the mission entrusted to him. His goal was more important that the taxpayer dollars he wasted, than the lives of the men he commanded in that airplane, than the families of those men, and more important than the wife he said he loved. He was blinded by his pride. As a result, he hurt everyone around him. So it is with us when we set forth to do that which God does not approve of, and are bound and determined to do it.

We, as members of the LORD’s church are not free to do as we please. In certain things the LORD has allowed leeway, in most things he has not. It is not like we are “freelance” Christians outside the hedge of the LORD’s protection. They can do pretty much what they want as long as it is not sin. They don’t have a covenant with God to be the “pillar and ground of the truth.” We do. As such, we cannot afford to give ground, be hypocritical, set our desires above the will of God, play fast and loose with truth, etc., etc. We are the focus of the spiritual war that rages in this world. We are members of the LORD’s true church, empowered to carry forth the truth to the world around us, and to the generations that follow us. If we fail to do this, we will be the cause of the world becoming darker. The blame will be laid squarely at our feet when we stand before the LORD and are judged. For us, holding fast the truth is not optional — we are in a covenant. Moreover, it is a covenant sealed by the blood of our LORD. Can we disregard such a thing as this covenant? To do so places us squarely in the camp of the enemy. That makes us no different than the Lt. Col. that flew his aircraft into the ground at Fairchild AFB.

Finis

Darker Shades of Blue: A Case Study of Failed Leadership, Major Tony Kern, United States Air Force, Copyright 1995↩

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The Church

Sunday, September 19th, 2010

… in their character, neither have been those churches known as Anabaptist, or Baptist. Nevertheless, they have always shared some things in common, particularly the doctrines of salvation, baptism, church organization, the autonomy of the local New Testament church, the Lord’s Supper, and missions. In addition, they have always looked to one single person as their founder and chief Shepherd – the Lord Jesus Christ.

Moreover, though generally known as Anabaptist (re-baptizer), they have been know by a host of other names given them by their enemies. Names such as Monatists, Novatians, Donatists, Paulicans, Albigenses, Waldensians, Paterines, Cathari, Bogomiles, etc. The list is extensive and varied, ranging from simple names designating a particular teacher’s following, to outright derogatory and slanderous names designed to totally discredit their doctrine and practice. …

Of all the things the average Christian studies, church history is probably the least studied. Moreover, when it is studied, it is the history of the Roman Catholic Church and its children, the Protestants, that is the subject of study. However, there is an entirely different history of the church that, comparatively speaking, very few know about.

It is this little known history that is the history of the true New Testament church.

Now, I know that there are many who would argue the point and say that the Catholic Church is the true New Testament church. However, to be a true New Testament church, one must follow the New Testament. The Roman Catholic Church does not do this. I know because I own a copy of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and it deviates from the New Testament extensively. In fact, it deviates from the Catholic Bible extensively.

That aside, there have always been churches that did not deviate from the New Testament in their formation, polity, and doctrine. Generally speaking they have been known as Anabaptists. Beginning in the 1500′s they became known simply as Baptists. But, even as the churches in the New Testament were not homogeneous in their character, neither have been those churches known as Anabaptist, or Baptist. Nevertheless, they have always shared some things in common, particularly the doctrines of salvation, baptism, church organization, the autonomy of the local New Testament church, the Lord’s Supper, and missions. In addition, they have always looked to one single person as their founder and chief Shepherd – the Lord Jesus Christ.

Moreover, though generally known as Anabaptist (re-baptizer), they have been know by a host of other names given them by their enemies. Names such as Monatists, Novatians, Donatists, Paulicans, Albigenses, Waldensians, Paterines, Cathari, Bogomiles, etc. The list is extensive and varied, ranging from simple names designating a particular teacher’s following, to outright derogatory and slanderous names designed to totally discredit their doctrine and practice.

When attempts to discredit them failed, and members could not be persuaded to recant their doctrine, they were persecuted. At different times and places whole congregations were killed for simply following what the Scripture teaches about baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Nevertheless, the Lord has perserved his church to this day.

All that being said, it should now be clear that a proper knowledge of the history of the Lord’s church, as opposed to the false history that is commonly presented, is essential for understanding how precious proper Scriptural doctrine is. Moreover, the history of the Lord’s true church and the preservation of the Scriptures are inextricably bound together. Without the different churches preserving the Scripture throughout the centuries since the Lord Jesus Christ died on the cross, we would have no pure Scripture to read.

Finally, the testimonies of the saints that came before, ought to be an encouragement for us to do better than what we do. When we understand that many of them died rather than compromise, we ought to be moved to do likewise.

In Christ,

Paul W. Davis

From the booklet The Trail of Blood by J. M. Carroll

Cardinal Hosius (Catholic, 1524), President of the Council of Trent: “Were it not that the baptists have been grievously tormented and cut off with the knife during the past twelve hundred years, they would swarm in greater number than all the Reformers.” (Hosius,Letters, Apud Opera, pp. 112, 113.) The “twelve hundred years” were the years preceding the Reformation in which Rome persecuted Baptists with the most cruel persecution thinkable.

Sir Isaac Newton: “The Baptists are the only body of known Christians that have never symbolized with Rome.”

Mosheim (Lutheran): “Before the rise of Luther and Calvin, there lay secreted in almost all the countries of Europe persons who adhered tenaciously to the principles of modern Dutch Baptists.”

Edinburg Cyclopedia (Presbyterian): “It must have already occurred to our readers that the Baptists are the same sect of Christians that were formerly described as Ana-Baptists. Indeed this seems to have been their leading principle from the time of Tertullian to the present time.”
Tertullian was born just fifty years after the death of the Apostle John.

Baptists do not believe in Apostolic Succession. The Apostolic office ceased with the death of the Apostles. It is to His churches that He promised a continual existence from the time He organized the first one during His earthly ministry until He comes again. He promised–

“I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matt. 16:18)

Then, when He gave the great Commission, which tells what His churches are to do, He promised–

“I will be with you alway, even unto the end of the age.” (Matt. 28:20)

This Commission–this work–was not given to the Apostles as individuals, but to them and the others present in their church capacity. The Apostles and the others who heard Him give this Commission were soon dead–BUT, His Church has lived on through the ages, making disciples (getting folks saved), baptizing them, and teaching the truth–the doctrines–He committed to the Jerusalem Church. These faithful churches have been blessed with His presence as they have traveled the TRAIL OF BLOOD.

This history shows how the Lord’s promise to His churches has been fulfilled. Dr. Carroll shows that churches have been found in every age which have taught the doctrines He committed unto them. Dr. Carroll calls these doctrines the “marks” of New Testament Churches.

“MARKS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH”

Its Head and Founder–CHRIST. He is the law-giver; the Church is only the executive. (Matt. 16:18; Col. 1:18)

Its only rule of faith and practice–THE BIBLE. (II Tim. 3:15-17)

Its name–”CHURCH,” “CHURCHES.” (Matt. 16:18; Rev. 22:16)

Its polity–CONGREGATIONAL–all members equal. (Matt. 20:24-28; Matt. 23:5-12)

Its members–only saved people. (Eph. 2:21; I Peter 2:5)

Its ordinances–BELIEVERS’ BAPTISM, FOLLOWED BY THE LORD’S SUPPER. (Matt. 28:19-20)

Its officers–PASTORS AND DEACONS. (I Tim. 3:1-16)

Its work–getting folks saved, baptizing them (with a baptism that meets all the requirements of God’s Word), teaching them (“to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you”). (Matt. 28:16-20)

Its financial plan–”Even so (TITHES and OFFERINGS) hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel,” (I Cor. 9:14)

Its weapons of warfare–spiritual, not carnal. (II Cor. 10:4; Eph. 6:10-20)

Its independence–separation of Church and State. (Matt. 22:21)

— from The Trail of Blood

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The Functioning of the Body: The NT Church – Pt. 2

Monday, June 15th, 2009

This is a continuation of last week’s lesson about opposition in the New Testament church.

The embedded MP3 file was presented in Ebenezer Baptist Mission’s Sunday morning services during Bible Study on June 14 th . I pray you find it edifying and a cause for reflection on how we conduct ourselves as members of a New Testament church. If you are born-again in Christ, and not a member of a New Testament church, I pray it gives you a better understanding as to how a New Testament church should work.

This continuation addresses a very thorny issue in every New Testament church — …

This is a continuation of last week’s lesson about opposition in the New Testament church.

The embedded MP3 file was presented in Ebenezer Baptist Mission’s Sunday morning services during Bible Study on June 14^th. I pray you find it edifying and a cause for reflection on how we conduct ourselves as members of a New Testament church. If you are born-again in Christ, and not a member of a New Testament church, I pray it gives you a better understanding as to how a New Testament church should work.

This continuation addresses a very thorny issue in every New Testament church — that of opposition within the church. My prayer is that fundamental, unaffiliated Baptists begin to take a more balanced and Scriptural approach in dealing with this single issue. In so doing, our churches will be stronger in the LORD and more solidly grounded in understanding the “whys and wherefores” of such things. The end that is desired is a New Testament church that never fails to follow its Head — the Lord Jesus Christ.

For those who cannot use the embedded player, wish to use a different player, or want to download the file, the following link is provided:

The Functioning of the Body — The New Testament Church: Part 2

In Christ,

Bro. Paul W. Davis

Tags: Baptists, Christianity, church, Doctrinal, salvation, Scripture
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The Functioning of the Body: The NT Church – Pt. 1

Monday, June 8th, 2009

The embedded MP3 file was presented in Ebenezer Baptist Mission’s Sunday morning services during Bible Study on June 7 th . I pray you find it edifying and a cause for reflection on how we conduct ourselves as members of a New Testament church. If you are born-again in Christ, and not a member of a New Testament church, I pray it gives you a better understanding as to how a New Testament church works. After all, it is the will of the Lord Jesus Christ that you enter into covenant with Him for life-long service — which is found only within the local, visible, New Testament church.

The …

The embedded MP3 file was presented in Ebenezer Baptist Mission’s Sunday morning services during Bible Study on June 7^th. I pray you find it edifying and a cause for reflection on how we conduct ourselves as members of a New Testament church. If you are born-again in Christ, and not a member of a New Testament church, I pray it gives you a better understanding as to how a New Testament church works. After all, it is the will of the Lord Jesus Christ that you enter into covenant with Him for life-long service — which is found only within the local, visible, New Testament church.

The lesson addresses a very thorny issue in every New Testament church — that of opposition within the church. My prayer is that fundamental, unaffiliated Baptists begin to take a more balanced and Scriptural approach in dealing with this single issue. In so doing, our churches will be stronger in the LORD and more solidly grounded in understanding the “whys and wherefores” of such things. The end that is desired is a New Testament church that never fails to follow its Head — the Lord Jesus Christ.

If the embedded player does not work for you, you want to use another player, or you wish to download the file, you can access it by the following link:

The Functioning of the Body — The New Testament Church

In Christ,

Paul W. Davis

Tags: Baptists, Christianity, church, Doctrinal, salvation, Scripture
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The Functioning of the Body: The NT Church – Pt. 2

The Functioning of the Body: The NT Church – Pt. 1