Faith Publishing House

Link	Aurthor	Article
	Chapter 1	Oct 5
	Chapter 2	Oct 12
	Chapter 3	Oct 19
	Chapter 4	Oct 26
	Chapter 5	Nov 2
	Chapter 6	Nov 9
	Chapter 7	Nov 16
	Chapter 8	Nov 23
	Chapter 9	Nov 30
	Chapter 10	Dec 7
	Chapter 11	Dec 14
	Chapter 12	Dec 21
	Chapter 13	Dec 28

THEME FOR FOURTH QUARTER, 1997

For our Bible Lessons this quarter we will continue with the writings and teachings of the apostle Paul. First, we will finish studying the epistle of Paul to the Ephesians that we started last quarter. Then we will take up his epistle to the Philippians. And as a closing study in this series of the writings of the apostle Paul we will consider his second epistle to Timothy. We trust that the Spirit of the Lord will bless these lessons to the good of everyone who studys from them. We surely desire that every soul will be as enriched from this series of lessons as we have been in preparing them. May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with you all.

Bringing Chrisitianity to the World!
Oct 5

OCTOBER 5, 1997
PUTTING OFF THE OLD MAN
Ephesians 4:17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,
18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ingnorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart;
19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
20 But ye have not so learned Christ;
21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:
22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.
26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
27 Neither give place to the devil.
28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:
32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
MEMORY VERSE: Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him. Colossians 3:9-10.
CENTRAL THOUGHT: The sinful desires and habits that we allowed to dominate our lives while we were unsaved must be laid aside and replaced with holy and righteous desires and habits that are pleasing and glorifying to God.
WORD DEFINITIONS
(Ephesians 4:19), "Past feeling": The Greek word signifies a throwing off of all sense of shame or pain of heart for committing unrighteous acts. The stubborness of the human nature will callouse the heart and mind to be able to do terrible and evil deeds without a ripple of condemnation. What a terrible condition for one to be in!
(Ephesians 4:20), "Ye have not so learned Christ": The Greek says, "Ye are not thus; ye have learned Christ."
(Ephesians 4:23), "And be renewed in the spirit of your mind": Adam Clarke comments: "The mind is to be renovated; and not only in its general complexion, but the very spirit of it; all its faculties and powers must be thoroughly, completely, and universally renewed." This is to be done by having a willingness to listen and to learn of God and His ways through the preaching of the gospel from the Holy Scriptures by the inspiration and enlightment of the Holy Spirit.
(Ephesians 4:26), "Be ye angry, and sin not": Adam Clarke has a good comment here: "We can never suppose that the apostle gives this as a precept. Perhaps the sense is, Take heed that ye be not angry, lest ye sin." Another way we could say it is, "If ye be angry, do not sin." Anger and mortal wrath is one of the greatest causes of sin and transgression. "Let not the sun go down upon your wrath": It is generally taken to mean that if you do allow your anger and wrath to cause you to say or do something hurtful to others or displeasing to God you should correct your error before sunset. But what if you should let your anger cause you to sin in the early morning? I am convinced by the light of the gospel of Christ and the holy burning love of God that He wants us all to possess of a deeper meaning here. Let us let the "sun" here signify the countenance and approval of the Lord. Let us have grace to restrain and control our feelings and tongues so that we will not allow ourselves to behave in any way that the Lord would not shine His face upon in blessing.
LESSON BACKGROUND
As the apostle Paul did in his other epistles, he has in the writing of this epistle to the Ephesians been expounding truth from the scriptures and what all Christ has accomplished in the work of salvation. He has expressed his loving concern for them and stated at least twice that his prayers were for them and their spiritual well being. In the light of all that he has brought out he is ready now to give counsel and commandment. It is not hard to obey God when one rightly understands Him. The Word of God preached in the gospel of Christ promotes and provides adequate and abundant light and knowledge of the character and nature of our heavenly Father. And when one rightly understands the wonderful truth of God it is not difficult to obey Him. But when one lingers in darkness and ignorance and seeks not for light and understanding the powers of Satan will keep him from enjoying the pleasure of living for God. So now Paul is giving in our lesson today explicit and plain teachings of how we are to act and conduct ourselves as followers of Christ. It is all very evident and filled with clear logic and true reason. The old man with his unlawful deeds of pride, strife, lust, selfishness, and greed must be put away from us. This takes decision and determination on our part. We must actually apply the teachings of Christ in His love and holiness in all practicality and activity to our conduct and ways. It is a great accomplishment for one to successfully and satisfactorily do this. But it can be done, and keeping in mind what Paul has already explained will help temper and condition our thoughts, feelings, attitudes and desires to do the same. -Leslie C. Busbee
QUESTIONS:
1. Why are Christians not to be like the unsaved?
2. How are we to "put off the old man"?
3. What must one do to be "taught" by Jesus?
4. What does it mean to be renewed in the spirit of your mind?
5. What kind of effort must we put forth to be Christ-like?
6. What kind of conduct do we owe to others to have ourselves?
7. What are the dangers of anger and wrath?
8. What are the ways that we can give place to the devil?
9. Why should we be careful to not grieve the Spirit of God?
10. What comparison is there between the old and new man?
ADULTS' AND YOUNG PEOPLE'S COMMENTS
The power of Satan is to blind the mind, close the heart, keep a person in error and ignorance, and sow the seeds of sin and iniquity in the life. He does not want the light of God to shine into a man's heart and mind and has many devices to keep a man in the dark. Just as termites and roaches thrive in the darkness, so sin and evil thrives in the darkness and ignorance of man. Let the light of glorious gospel shine into a man's mind and heart and the fruits of darkness will lose their attraction and value. God sent light into the world in Jesus Christ. The darkness of the sinful ways of humankind were made to be clearly seen in their vanity and folly. In the light of the truth of God the way of holiness and righteousness take on an attractive bearing. It all makes sense, good sense to flee the sinful paths that lead downward to destruction and seek the path that leads upward to Heavenly joys. God respects a man's will and while some are willing to accept the truth of the gospel and walk in its blessed light there will be others who will rebel against it. It is so foolish to cling to one's selfish and greedy ways when the way of purity and godliness are so rewarding and beneficial! Do we want to be happy and richly blessed and successful? Then let us take the counsel and teachings of Christ and His apostles and find the good and holy way to life eternal! Let us put off the ways of pride and worldliness. Let us deny the ungodly ways of the pleasures and riches of this world. Instead of dishonesty and lying let us put honesty and uprightness into our habits of life. Instead of slander, cursing, and hurtful words let us seek to speak the truth in love to our fellow man. Instead of anger and wrath let us have patience and kindness. Oh, it is easy to give over to one's feelings in a time of stress and adversity. But where does it get you? It opens the door to Satan and puts you on his side. Is it worth it? Oh, how much better it is to resist the temptation of the flesh and yield to the Spirit of God and let Him guide us in holiness and the meekness of Christ! And, as we continue to follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and meekness our happiness and blessings will increase through the years of our sojourn here below. Some blessed day we will flee these scenes of trial and tribulation and go to be with the holy and redeemed of all ages in a world where temptations and sin will never come. Will it not be worth it all to be there? -Leslie C. Busbee
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
"But ye have not so learned Christ;..." There are many things people learn which were not learned by observing Christ. What we learned about Christ was that he was a man full of compassion, impeccable in character and with an abhorrence of sin. This is the life which we are to parody. "But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord." II Cor. 3:18. My father told us that if we saw him do something, it was all right for us to do it also. Parents are for the purpose of setting an example before their children, so they will have a good comprehension of a normal, upright way of life. Christ walked upon this earth for three years so that we could have an understanding of what a Christian is supposed to be like. If He had been crucified and purchased our redemption at an earlier age than he actually did, think of all the valuable information and the literal perception of an icon we would have lost. The ultimate aim of a Christian is to give no place to the enemy. And this is the example Christ left us. Just before He faced death, He said, "Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me." John 14:30. If there is any bitterness, wrath, anger or evil speaking in our lives, then the prince of this world has a claim to our souls. Although following Christ requires a closeness in our lives, there is great power in the Holy Spirit to totally fill us with goodness and kindness. -Wayne Murphey

Oct 12

OCTOBER 12, 1997

FOLLOWERS OF GOD AS DEAR CHILDREN

Ephesians 5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;

2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.

3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;

4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.

5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.

6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them.

8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

9 (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)

10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.

11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.

12 For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.

13 But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.

14 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.

15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,

16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

MEMORY VERSE: For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. Ephesians 5:8, 10.

CENTRAL THOUGHT: To be the dearly beloved children of God we must follow Him in His holiness, ceasing from the sins and errors of those who are in darkness.

WORD DEFINITIONS

(Ephesians 5:1), "Followers of God": The Greek word for "followers" is the word from which comes our English word "mimic". It means to personate or imitate. Adam Clarke observes: " It is natural for children to imitate their parents; it is their constant aim to learn of them, and to copy them in all things; whatever they see the parent do, whatever they hear him speak, that is what they endeavour to copy and imitate; yea, they go farther, they unconsciously copy the very tempers of their parents. If ye therefore be children of God, show this love to your heavenly Father, and imitate all His moral perfections, and acquire the mind that was in Jesus." "Dear": This word is translated from the same word as "beloved" in the Greek text. It means "greatly loved".

(Ephesians 5:4), "Jesting": Speech or words that may seem to be acceptable but can be easily turned to an obscene or offensive meaning. "Not convenient": Not fit or proper.

(Ephesians 5:5), "Covetous man, who is an idolater": A covetous man who is lusting after unlawful and forbidden things such as money and sinful fleshly appetites is an idolater in the true sense of the word for he is making these things the object of his love and worship instead of God.

(Ephesians 5:9), "Fruit of the Spirit": The word "Spirit" here really should be "light" because it comes from the Greek word of that meaning. It is alright to use either term for they both come from the same source and work together to produce the same effect. The fruit of the light of the gospel is to enlighten us of the darkness and error of sin and to make known the riches of God's holiness and truth.

(Ephesians 5:15), "Circumspectly": This word comes from the Latin word "circumspicio" which means to look all around about and be in every way watchful, wary, and cautious, in order to avoid danger. But the Greek word from which this is translated signifies correctly, accurately, consistently, or perfectly. Adam Clarke has this to say about it: "Be ye, who have received the truth, careful of your conduct; walk by the rule which God has given you; do this as well in little as in great matters; exemplify your principles, which are holy and good, by a corresponding conduct; do not only profess, but live the Gospel. As you embrace all of its promises, be careful also to embrace all of its precepts; and behave yourselves so, that your enemies may never be able to say that ye are holy in your doctrines and profession, but irregular in your lives."

(Ephesians 5:16), "Redeeming the time": The real meaning from the Greek is "buying up the opportunity." It is taking advantage of the space of time alloted to us to use it for the best advantage for our eternal welare and that of others.

LESSON BACKGROUND Today we continue with the discourse of Paul's epistle to the Ephesians in which he is giving counsel and commandments as to how we as redeemed children of God should live. Being dear and beloved children of God means changing the way we live. It is reported that Ephesus was a wicked city given over to the lusts of the flesh. Men and women glorified the awful sin of prostitution, for their goddess Venus was attributed to be such. Into this corrupted and evil city came the gospel that shone light and knowledge of the displeasure of Almighty God upon such evil. The 19th chapter of Acts records Pauls labours there and the uproar that ensued in the city because of the threat that the gospel of Christ had toward the commerce of the people's idolatry. But the truth of God gained a secure foothold there and many turned to the Lord. Concerning verse 14 there has been much puzzle as to from whence this saying came. I am of the opinion, as also Adam Clarke stated, that Paul is saying here what the Gospel in general terms is saying to all men, that is, to awaken out of the slumber of ignorance and darkness, get up and out of your old way of sin and transgression, and receive the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. This we must do if we are to reap and enjoy the benefits of the grace of God. -Leslie C. Busbee

QUESTIONS:

1. Is it possible to be children of God, and not be dear?

2. What kind of life must we live if we want to be dear to Him?

3. What are the things that are becoming to saintliness?

4. Why is Paul counselling us to avoid the things mentioned?

5. Can Satan get us to think these things are all right?

6. What effect does the gospel light have upon a person?

7. What does the light of God help us to discover or prove?

8. What is the general message of the gospel to mankind?

9. What does it mean to walk circumspectly?

10. How can we "redeem the time"?

ADULTS' AND YOUNG PEOPLE'S COMMENTS

It matters not how people will argue and contend for them to be justified and excused in doing wrong. It still stands according to the scriptures and according to the writings of Paul that to be dear children of God we have to quit the sin business and start doing only those things that please the Lord. Real Bible salvation will cause the right fruit to come forth in a man's life. Inward light comes with the Gospel of the Saviour. It will reveal sin to the soul. Darkness and ignorance will hide sin. Dim light will make it scarcely discernable. But full light will show up everything. Light makes manifest. The roaches and termites and pesty creatures thrive in the dark. So does sin and wrong thrive in the absence of light and knowledge of God. People in their blindness go about committing sin without remorse or guilt. But when the light of God's law comes shining in it will bring reproof and condemnation. Children of light are people who have been enlightened by the Gospel of Jesus. They see that God is wanting the beauty of His holiness in the inner man. This beauty will shine out. They seek for the true riches of faith and hope and love. Thank God for the light of truth that shows us how to be dear children to our heavenly Father! Oh, what a beautiful life is ours to live and enjoy not only here on earth but up in heaven! -Leslie C. Busbee

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

In his dying hours, a heathen king who was wounded in battle sent for his trusted servant and said to him, "Go, tell the dead I come." The soldier-servant, without hesitating for a moment, drew his sword and stabbed himself to the heart, with the thought that he might go to the dead before his master, and prepare them for his coming.

"Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light." Eph. 5:14. With great sacrifice, the servant of the heathen king went to the dead to announce death. Christ has asked us to go to those who are dead in trespasses and sin, to announce life. What a superior message! I wonder if we are as quick and as faithful in announcing it as the king's servant was? Perhaps the message isn't given as much respect by the hearers as we think it should be, and so we become discouraged. Yet wisdom teaches us that if the light is made manifest in just one soul, we are redeeming the time, and that this is of greater significance than anything else that can be done in the world. -Wayne Murphey

Oct 19

OCTOBER 19, 1997

HUSBANDS AND WIVES, CHRIST AND THE CHURCH

Ephesians 5:17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;

20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.

22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.

23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.

24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.

25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,

27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.

29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:

30 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.

31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.

32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

MEMORY VERSE: Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word. Ephesians 5:25-26.

CENTRAL THOUGHT: Jesus Christ is related to His saints in the same way as a man is related to his wife. As Christ loved the Church and as we are subject to Him, even so likewise must the husband and wife relate to each other.

WORD DEFINITIONS

(Ephesians 5:18), "Excess": This word means that which is out of control or reason. When a person is drunk with wine, or any alcoholic beverage, their blood is so charged with alcohol that it addles the brain, and renders them incapable of thinking normally and acting with right judgment.

(Ephesians 5:23), "Saviour of the body": Just as Christ is the Saviour, Defender, Protector, and Sustainer of our souls, so is the husband to be to his wife.

(Ephesians 5:26), "Washing of water by the word": Not only are we cleansed by the blood of our Redeember, there is also a washing that we must experience through obedience to His word. Jesus said in John 15:3, "Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you". Hebrews 10:22 says, "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water." This means that we cleanse our ways and habits of life by taking heed unto His word and obeying it completely. Jesus shed His blood and gave His life that we would be able to do this.

(Ephesians 5:27), "Spot": Stain or defilement."Wrinkle": This means a crease or fold in the skin which comes with old age. Christ's Church is eternally young and beautiful with the bloom of youth, even as Christ is. "Without blemish": Blameless.

(Ephesians 5:29), "Cherisheth": To warm, care tenderly for, fervently foster and shelter.

(Ephesians 5:33), "Reverence": If a man will love and cherish his wife as God would have him to by loving her as himself it will help to inspire loving respect and reverent awe in her heart toward him.

LESSON BACKGROUND

Our lesson today is a continuation of Paul's epistle to the Ephesians. He is giving instructions and mandates of the Christian life and how we as blood-washed saints should live in this present evil world. In this lesson we will consider the counsels that Paul gave concerning man and wife. We see how he compared man and wife to Christ and His Church. The two are parallel to each other. As Christ is to the Church and as the Church is to Christ, so is the man to his wife and the wife to her husband. It is a great and glorious truth. If a man and woman would enjoy the bliss of a happy married life they must go by the pattern that Christ set for us. What is said about man cleaving to his wife and being one flesh with her, so Christ is one with us. He has given Himself for us and He wants us to give ourselves to Him likewise. The language of this text of scripture is so sublime and beautiful. It has such a depth of expression that is all divine and so inspiring. He seemed to reach a rapturous height in his expression concerning our relationship with Christ when he said, "For we are members of His body, of his flesh, and of his bones." The tender care, the warm and fervent affection, and the faithful devotion that Christ has for those who believe in and obey Him is overwhelming to behold. -Leslie C. Busbee

QUESTIONS:

1. Why is the Lord so displeased with drunkenness?

2. What can we have in Christ which is so much better?

3. Why is it so important to faithfully offer thanks to God?

4. What does it mean for a husband to be the head of the wife?

5. What did Christ do in His love for the Church?

6. What kind of a church does He want to present to Himself?

7. Can a man expect his wife to reverence him properly if he himself is abusive and hurtful?

8. Who has the greater responsibility before God?

9. How should a man relate to his wife?

10. In what way are we members of Christ's body, of His flesh, and of His bones?

ADULTS' AND YOUNG PEOPLE'S COMMENTS

God has a beautiful and wonderful plan for man and woman to follow. To live together as husband and wife in holy and pure affection and in peace and harmony brings happiness and life's sweetest pleasure. Christ, as the Bridegroom of the souls of men, set the pace and the example for us to follow. He desired the love and devotion of people. And to achieve this He gave Himself for them to save them from eternal ruin and at the same time to join them unto Himself in a love so rapturous and strong. A man who wants his wife to love him must pay a price to win that love. Husbands are to love their wives even as Christ loved us. If a wife can see that tender and warm affection in her husband it will help her to have greater love and submissiveness to him. A husband should not be bossy, domineering, lustful, and beastly to his wife. He should be gentle, helpful, understanding, kind, considerate, patient, merciful, and cheerful. He must be strong in spirit, in prayer, in wisdom, and in faithfulness to God. When a wife sees these attributes in her husband it will satisfy a deep inward craving that she was born with, yea, a deep inner desire for love and closeness that God Himself put within her. The husband desires his wife to be loving, affectionate, dutiful, and industrious. Each must earnestly and nobly fill the place God is calling them to be. -Leslie C. Busbee

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Christ is the perfect bridegroom. The question then is: What kind of a companion are we? Sad to say, many are indifferent in their relationships. In order for a marriage to succeed, both parties must work at it. Our spiritual marriage to Christ will not prosper if it is a one-sided affair. It must be maintained.

One of the most important ingredients in a good marriage is communication. Where there is not interaction through sharing and caring, even in the small events of life, the marriage soon becomes rocky.

We must also learn how to show thankfulness. Gratitude should season our conversation with our companions, as well as our prayers to our spiritual bridegroom.

The very first bride was Eve. Adam looked upon her and loved her because she was a part of him. She was bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh. When Christ was on the cross, His side was opened. This was a symbol of the creation of His spiritual bride. Through His sleep in death, God created a bride suitable for Christ. This means that we, as His bride taken from His side, have the mind of Christ. When others look upon us they should see a reflection of His image. -Wayne Murphey

Oct 26

OCTOBER 26, 1997

INSTRUCTIONS IN HUMAN RELATIONS

Ephesians 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

Colossians 3:20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.

Ephesians 6:2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;

3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

Colossians 3:21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.

22 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:

23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

25 But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.

Ephesians 6:9 And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.

Colossians 4:2 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;

3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.

5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

6 Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

MEMORY VERSE: Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers, but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men. Ephesians 6: 6-7.

CENTRAL THOUGHT: Toward all of our fellow creatures of earth we owe loving and faithful service that we might make manifest by precept and example the great goodness of God.

WORD DEFINITIONS

(Ephesains 6:4, Colossians 3:21), "Provoke": In these two texts this word is translated from two different Greek words, both of which mean practically the same. It means to stimulate anger or enrage. Unwise dealings by parents who are not patient, firm, consistent, and godly affectionate will turn children from the truth. "Discouraged": Disheartened; without zeal, passion, or fervent desire for God. Blessed are the parents who can so live that their children will catch their vision of love for God and His service.

(Colossians 3:22), "Eyeservice": The Greek word means "sightlabour", which refers to work that needs to be watched or supervised. It is for a person to work and serve others faithfully whether being observed and in the presence of the employer, or whether alone. "Menpleasers": One who does service to win praise and admiration of others. "Singleness": Sincerity without pretence or self seeking.

(Colossians 4:6), "Grace, seasoned with salt": Let our words be spoken with consideration and tenderness for those to whom we speak, endeavoring to make our speaking attractive and with a pleasant taste. The salt we want to use with this is the Holy Spirit.

LESSON BACKGROUND

Today we will continue in our study of the apostle Paul's teachings concerning our relationship with others. In the light of the truth that he has brought out about Christ his counsel points us to a life of humble and loving service to our fellow man. He began in the previous chapter with husbands and wives, and today he continues with children and parents. God wants to turn the heart of the fathers to the children and the heart of the children to their fathers. (Malachi 4:6.) In his counsel to the children Paul quoted from the ten commandments as recorded in Exodus 20:1-17. The first four commandments concern with our relationship with God and the last six commandments concern with our relationship with man. The first of these last six says, "Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." Paul expressed it, "long on the earth". The words "land" and "earth" are used often interchangeably in the scriptures. God gave to Israel the "land" of Caanan for their possession. Jesus said, quoting from Psalm 37:11 that the meek would inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5. The Caanan land was typical of our spiritual inheritance in Christ of the blessings of the Holy Spirit and full salvation. In this way we inherit the earth, but it will also be fulfilled in the obtaining of eternal life in the new heaven and new earth which is to come. Honour and obedience to one's parents will pay off in great dividends. Dishonour and disobedience to one's parents will bring woe and damnation. Service to God begins at home with a right and submissive attitude to those in authority. So many children and young people do themselves great damage by rebelling against their parents. Thus parenthood is a great responsibility greatly in need of help from God.

And not only are we to be subject as children, but we are also enjoined to have a submissive and co-operative attitude toward those who employ us. God has the counsel and planning for every phase of our life. Through prayer and submission to God we can be in every activity and function of life the fulfillment of God's perfect will. -Leslie C. Busbee

QUESTIONS:

1. Why is it so important for children to be obedient to thei parents?

2. What is the promise given for obedience?

3. How can a father provoke his children to wrath?

4. What is meant by the nurture and admonition of the Lord?

5. What is the proper attitude one should have for working for others?

6. What is the proper attitude one should have for those working for him?

7. How does watching with thanksgiving go with prayer?

8. What did Paul want the saints to pray for Him about?

9. What kind of salt do we need to season our words with?

10. How important are these instructions given by Paul?

ADULTS' AND YOUNG PEOPLE'S COMMENTS

There is and there always will be the requirement of obedience to certain rules and laws in pleasing God and being right with Him. We are not under the law of Moses, but we are under the law of Christ. The spiritual qualities of the law of Moses are carried over into the New Testament but are to be observed and obeyed with a much greater love and submission to God. We have the example of Christ in His submission to the Father's will. We must also be submissive to the counsel of the holy apostles and servants of the Lord Jesus Christ. While the law commands us to honour our father and mother, Paul details it a little clearer with the word "obey". It is a great responsible work for parents to teach their children obedience. For it to be successfully carried out the parents must be fully submissive and obedient to God. It will not work very well for parents to try to discipline and bring their offspring into subjection if they themselves are not obedient to God. They will not have the grace and wisdom to carry it out as they should.

The counsel of Paul proceeds to servitude. Now in our time this includes employment, that is, working for others on the job. It really is important for a Christian to learn submission and co-operation on the job. One can really let his light shine by being the submissive and co-operative employee that God is pleased with. -Leslie C. Busbee

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

"...but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord." Eph. 6:4.

Some years ago, a native Greenlander came to the united States. It was too hot for him there; so he made up his mind to return home, and took passage on a ship going that way; but he died before he got back. As he was dying, he turned to those who were around him, and said, "Go on deck and see if you can see ice."

"What a strange thing!" some would say. It was not a strange thing at all. When that man was a baby, the first thing he saw was ice. His house was made of ice. The window was a slab of ice. He was cradled in ice. The water he drank was melted ice. The scenery about his home was ice. And when he became a man, many a day he stooped over a hole in the ice to spear any seal that might come there. He had always been accustomed to see ice, and he knew that if his companions on the ship could see ice it would be evidence that he was near home. The thought of ice was the very last thought in his mind, as it was the very first impression made there.

The earliest impressions are the deepest. Those things which are instilled into the hearts of children endure for ever and ever. -Taken from New Testament Anecdotes.

Nov 2

NOVEMBER 2, 1997

PUT ON THE WHOLE ARMOUR OF GOD

Ephesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.

16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.

MEMORY VERSE: Let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. I Thessalonians 5:8.

CENTRAL THOUGHT: The powers of this present evil world in its sin and wickedness and error are forces that oppose the gospel of Christ and His holiness. We are going to meet their opposition if we take our stand for the truth of God. But God has provided us special weapons to use in the Christian warfare. It is for us to take these mighty weapons and wield them against the powers of the devil.

WORD DEFINITIONS

(Ephesians 6:11), "The whole armour of God": The full or complete armour for defense and offense. (Ephesians 6:12), Let us read this from the pure Greek text: "Because to us is not wrestling against blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world's rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual powers in the heavenlies." This clearly shows that the Christian warfare is a spiritual conflict with spiritual powers. This word "high places": is the same word as "heavenly places" in Eph. 1:3 and 2:6. It is referring to the eternal and invisible realm of the soul, above the fleeting carnal realm of the flesh and the human. Satan is entrenched in the soul of man that should be God's domain. The power of the gospel of Christ is to dethrone Satan from the soul of man and put Christ in His rightful place.

(Ephesians 6:13), The Greek text reads: "Because of this take up the full armour of God, that you be able to resist in the evil day, and to stand, having accomplished all things." We cannot expect to overcome if we have not accomplished all the will of God that He has revealed to us. In any warfare there are certain duties and procedures to follow. (Ephesians 6:14), "Loins girt about with truth": The literal armour contained a girdle of mail or strong metal which was wrapped about the hips to protect the vital organs of the middle. Paul labels this in the Christian armour as TRUTH. He said in II Cor. 13:8, "For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth". Truth is that which is genuine, real, authentic, not deceiving or hypocritical. Breastplate of righteousness": The chest and trunk area was protected by a metal plate fitted and strapped to the soldier. Paul labels this for the Christian as righteousness. This must be the right kind of righteousness. It cannot be self righteousness nor the righteousness of the law. It is the righteousness of faith and obedience to Christ which produces a life of purity, uprightness, honesty, and godly control of the life we live in the flesh.

(Ephesians 6:15), "Shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace": Having bound to our hearts a readiness to preach, promote, proclaim, and share with others the good news of the kingdom of God. Paul said in Romans 10:15, "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!" The gospel of Christ IS a gospel of peace. It proclaims that God wills to be at peace with man through His forgiving love and the blood of His Son.

(Ephesians 6:6), "Above all": This means in the Greek "more important than anything else". The literal shield was often an oblong apparatus that was long enough to shield the entire body below the head. It was to ward off the arrows of the enemy. Paul labels this shield for the Christian as "the shield of faith". And how true this is. Faith is believing God and if the devil can get us to doubt God's love and mighty power to save, to sanctify, to heal, to keep, or whatever else we have need of in life, that is to his advantage.

(Ephesians 6:17), "Helmet of salvation": Our memory verse says, hope of salvation. Being fully saved and keeping saved and up to date with God will shield our minds, our vision, our hearing, our smelling and our taste and powers of speech. This is all spiritual. It means much for a person to really have a born again experience with God and then be filled with the Holy Spirit, and then keep walking in the light and being constantly up to par with the Lord. This is our helmet. "The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God": This is our offensive weapon that we must wield to defeat the devil and overcome the threatening forces of this evil world. Grasping the promises and keeping them in our purposeful minds of faith and trust is one way of wielding the Sword of the Spirit.

LESSON BACKGROUND

This is the final lesson from the epistle of Paul to the Ephesians. He gives us in this lesson an object lesson of the Roman soldier's armour compared to the armour of the soldier of Christ. I like to think of Paul studying the soldier that guarded him in his own hired house. (Acts 28:16, 30.) He visualized each part of his armour or uniform as symbolic of something spiritual, something vital to the child of God in his Christian warfare. And with the inspiration of the Holy Spirit he was able to label the parts of the armour with things that we need to have and abound in that we might be able to withstand the opposing powers of Satan. -Leslie C. Busbee

QUESTIONS:

1. Why is the Christian not to wrestle against flesh and blood?

2. What kind of warfare are we as saints of God engaged in?

3. What does "put on" and "take unto you" imply?

4. How does the "truth" preserve our spiritual life?

5. What does it mean to have on the breastplate of righteousness?

6. How is the gospel of peace a weapon of defence?

7. What are some of the fiery darts of the wicked?

8. What does the helmet of salvation protect?

9. How is the sword of the Spirit to be used?

10. Why is prayer, supplication, watching, and perseverance so important?

ADULTS' AND YOUNG PEOPLE'S COMMENTS

If a person is going to be a successful Christian he or she is going to have to be a fighter. We are in a great conflict in the world between good and evil, between the power of Satan and the power of God. And we have to have an understanding of this conflict and what it really takes to fight in this battle. Within the heart and the mind is where the battles are fought. Contending for the truth and the true righteousness we are to resist the feelings of anger, wrath, bitterness, resentment, and strife. We are to resist the temptations of the flesh in its appetites and indulgences. We are to beware of false doctrines and store up in our hearts the teachings of the Word of God that we can draw from them when we meet with false teaching. Many battles are fought and won in the secret closet of prayer. The battle is not ours but the Lord's. We win not in our human strength or intelligence. We win it through humility and submission to God. Oh, to be a triumphant Christian soldier! It is the noblest place in life to fill. -Leslie C. Busbee

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Not only is it important to have the proper armor in this warfare, but it is also essential to notice the proper posture of the Christian warrior. The stance is to "stand."

The grey heron has a very peculiar mode of defense. When attacked by the eagle or falcon, it simply stands quiet and firm, using its bill as a sword, allowing the enemy to pierce himself through by his own force. The Christian's defense is the same. Sometimes it is a real temptation to take the Word and try to chase down gossip, false doctrines, etc. But what havoc can be wrought with the Word of God when it is mishandled. If a person gets to the place where they feel they are an authority with the Word, and able to use it at will, it is likely they will not only hurt others who are innocent, but inflict great wounds upon themselves. When in the midst of the conflict, it is good to do as song #270 says in our Evening Light Song Book, "Hold a true position, standing firm." Just stand still and see what great things the Word of God can do. -Wayne Murphey

Nov 9

NOVEMBER 9, 1997

TENDER LOVE AND FERVENT DESIRE TOWARD OTHERS

Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:

2 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,

4 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,

5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;

6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

7 Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.

8 For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.

9 And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;

10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;

11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

12 But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;

13 So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places;

14 And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

MEMORY VERSE: He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6.

CENTRAL THOUGHT: There is a holy bond of tender fervent affection that binds true believers together in unity and loving concern for one another. True saints who live by the faith of Jesus long for one another and pray fervently for one another for their spiritual welfare.

WORD DEFINITIONS

(Philippians 1:1), "Bishops and deacons": Overseers and ministers. It could also be called pastors and trustees.

(Philippians 1:6), "Perform": Finish.

(Philippians 1:7), "It is meet for me to think this of you all": The Greek text says, "It is righteous for me to think this of all of you." Paul counted his fervent desire for these people's spiritual welfare a righteous work well pleasing unto God. "Defence and confirmation of the gospel": Paul sought to plead and speak out for the promotion and acceptance of the gospel. He also sought to see the gospel established in people's minds and hearts. "Ye all are partakers of my grace": The Greek text says, "You all being sharers with me of the grace."

(Philippians 1:8), "The bowels of Jesus Christ": The inward affection and tender mercy of Christ.

(Philippians 1:9), "Knowledge and all judgment": The Greek text says, "full knowledge and all perception."

(Philippians 1:10), "Approve things that are excellent": The Greek text says, "to test and discover things that are different, or surpassing." It is a great accomplishment for a person to hear and receive the gospel and learn about a way of life that is different and higher than the vain and carnal way that he knew while in sin.

(Philippians 1:13), "My bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace": Paul's imprisonment were clearly revealed and made known in all the praetorium, which was the Roman Emperor's courtroom.

LESSON BACKGROUND

The epistle of the apostle Paul to the congregation at Philippi in Macedonia was written from Rome in about A. D. 62 during Paul's imprisonment there. In the 16th chapter of Acts we read where Paul and Silas had gone there to preach the gospel after having a vision of the call for help in that place. A work for God was established there and this congregation of saints were very attentive to the apostle Paul as he reveals in this epistle. They communicated with Paul and supported him when others did not. Their support of him meant so much to Paul and his fellowship with them in the gospel from the very first was sweet and genuine. We find in our lesson today the expressions of his loving delight in them. He appreciated their stand for truth, for the gospel truth that was so different from the wicked city in which they lived. His prayers for them was with joy and gladness for what they meant to him. He was in prison in Rome and he longed to be with these brethren again. And he wanted them to know that what had happened in his imprisonment in Rome was working for good and for the advancement of the great cause he was engaged in. These people were sharers with him of the grace of God and the bond of love between them was a sweet and unbreakable tie which is still true today with all the saved in Christ. -Leslie C. Busbee

QUESTIONS:

1. What things did Paul say that showed his tender love for the Philippian church?

2. What does "fellowship in the gospel" mean?

3. What was the "good work" that God had begun in them?

4. What caused Paul to have these people in his heart?

5. What was his expressed inward feeling for them?

6. What was his prayer to God concerning them?

7. How are the things of spiritual life in Christ so excellent?

8. How did he want them to be until the day of Christ, and why?

9. What does being "filled with the fruits of righteousness" mean?

10. What had been the effect of Paul's imprisonment in Rome?

ADULTS' AND YOUNG PEOPLE'S COMMENTS

In the world are activities and enterprises that require those participating to be united and in full co-operation with one another. In the sports world teamwork and harmony are so vital to success. In the business world working together is so important. But in these things there is much room for corruption and failure to take place. In military operations soldiers become very close to those who they fight side by side with. The perils and dangers of combat require discipline and faithful devotion to duty. But even in that area of mortal activity there is much place for evil and corruption to work. But there is one great field of labour and warfare which affords an opportunity for service which is attended with the sweetest and most wonderful association and fellowship among its members. And that is the work of the gospel of the Lord Jesus. To be anointed and empowered to proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God is a wonderful vocation. It is the highest and most noble of all endeavors. And the relationship that develops between the minister and those who are being ministered to can be a most delightful and rewarding experience. This bond of love found in the gospel of Jesus is the only power that does not corrupt the one who uses it. If a young person wants to enter a field of labour that brings happiness and a retirement that is out of this world, he or she needs to step forth and consecrate for the service of God. There is joy in the service of the Master. -Leslie C. Busbee

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

The Apostle Paul had suffered much in Philippi, but what a masterpiece of glorious truth is written in this letter to the Philippians. Though he had suffered much to bring them to Christ, his love for them was great. Even the thought of them caused his heart to be filled with thanksgiving to God for their love for truth and for him. They were included in all his prayers and he thanked God for their fellowship from the first day he met them until the time he wrote the letter. He was confident that the work of Christ in their souls would increase more and more until the day that Jesus would call them home. The Apostle Paul wanted them to continue to increase and be filled with all the fruits of the Spirit and of righteousness, and that their whole soul and life be always occupied with doing that which would bring glory to Christ.

Let us take heed to ourselves to see if we are letting the love of God "abound more and more" in our lives. What God has begun in us through Christ we want to let grow and grow. When we were first saved, our love for Christ knew no bounds. Is it that way today? Is the same desire and tenderness there to please Him? What about the zeal that we had to tell others about our new found friend and the joy of sins forgiven? Oh, we want all that Christ began in our lives to remain right up to the day of Christ's coming. -Marie Miles (Written in 1978.)

Nov 16

NOVEMBER 16, 1997

TO LIVE IS CHRIST, AND TO DIE IS GAIN

Philippians 1:15 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife: and some also of good will:

16 The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:

17 But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.

18 What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.

19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

20 According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.

21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.

23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

24 Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.

25 And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;

26 That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.

27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

28 And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.

29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.

MEMORY VERSE: For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21.

CENTRAL THOUGHT: No matter what opposition or adversity we meet in this time world by the help of the Lord we can turn it all toward our salvation and the blessed hope of being with Jesus forever.

WORD DEFINITIONS

(Philippians 1:15-16), "Some preach Christ of envy and strife, ....of contention": There were those in Paul's time who believed and taught that Jesus was the Messiah but they held to keeping of the old law, especially that of circumcision. They were very much against Paul because he held that circumcision and the keeping of the ceremonial part of the law was no longer necessary. "Some of good will": But then there were those who stood with Paul in his teachings of Christ, believing that God had raised him up as a herald for the new faith of salvation in Jesus.

(Philippians 1:17), "I am set for the defence of the gospel": Paul was persuaded that he had been appointed and placed by the Lord Jesus as a herald for the truth and it was his responsibility to uphold it and defend it against all error and false docrine.

(Philippians 1:19), "This shall turn to my salvation": The Greek says, "This shall result in my salvation." "The supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ": Through the prayers of the saints and the contributing power and working of the Holy Spirit it will all work out for the best. God can turn adversity and the foolish resistance of ignorant souls around to make it all a blessing and a promotion for the truth.

(Philippians 1:20), "Earnest expectation": The meaning from the Greek is "intense anticipation."

(Philippians 1:22), "I wot not": I perceive not. Paul was willing for the Lord to have his way. He would rather be gone from this vile temple of clay and its suffering and hardship to be at rest in paradise with Jesus, but, on the other hand, as long as he tarried in the world He would still have Christ in the Spirit and would be able to help his beloved brethren.

(Philippians 1:28), "Evident token of perdition": The Greek says, "a proof of destruction." The very fact that these enemies of the truth opposed the preaching and lives of the saints of Christ was a proof of their unworthiness and disqualification to be a partaker of the salvation of God.

LESSON BACKGROUND

As we saw in our previous lesson, Paul's imprisonment at Rome had created quite a stir in that capital of the Roman empire. And it was a challenge and inspiration to the saints and ministers to have more courage and boldness to proclaim the good news of salvation in Christ. In our lesson today Paul reveals something else that was going on there. There were those who were preaching Christ and trying to work against Paul and what he was teaching. These were probably Jews converted to believe in Jesus as the long awaited Messiah, but held to the keeping of the traditions of the old Mosaic law. Because Paul laid no stress on the importance of circumcision and the various Jewish rites he was counted their enemy. But we see the sweetness of Paul's attitude to such a condition. He took it that he was glad that Christ was being preached even though some was preaching Him and working against what he, Paul, stood for. He was going to rejoice anyway because he knew that it would all come out good for him in the end as the Spirit of the Lord and the prayers of the saints to Almighty God would prevail. Such is to be our attitude today. No matter what people do for us or against us, it is God who is standing with us as we follow His truth, and He will bring us out. We do not need to be fearful and bothered by those who oppose the way of holiness. They oppose to their own destruction. And we must remember that there will be oppostion and adversity for us to meet along with our faith in the Lord. We just need to see to it that we are conducting ourselves as the true citizens of Zion, the true Church of God. -Leslie C. Busbee

QUESTIONS:

1. How did Paul feel about those who preached Christ of envy?

2. How was this going to turn to his salvation?

3. What lesson is there in this for us today?

4. What was Paul's earnest expectation and hope?

5. How can Christ be magnified in our body by life?

6. How can Christ be magnified in our body by death?

7. How would it be gain for us if we die?

8. What would Paul prefer to do, and why was it far better?

9. What is the evident token of perdition in some?

10. What are some of the things that Christians have to suffer?

ADULTS' AND YOUNG PEOPLE'S COMMENTS

Were it not for the intense anticipation and hope that we have in living for the Lord it would be much harder to endure the hardships and sufferings that we as saints of God encounter along our pilgrim way. The Lord is so dear, His saints are so dear, and the pleasures we enjoy in the Christian way seem to make our faith worthwhile even if there were no hereafter. But sometimes the load gets so heavy and the trials and sufferings in this mortal body become so severe. It is then that this sweet hope of Christ cheers us and helps hold us fast as an anchor of the soul. The yearning to be gone from this life can be a reality, and sometimes it can be an obsession. We must be careful about this, however. We cannot leave this world until the Lord says so. Let us keep our intense ancitipation and desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better, but let us also find the joy of God in service for His cause, and be willing to stay just as long as He wills for us. Let us make it our rule that for us to live will be Christ and for His sake. As Sister Martha Beisly of Coffeyville, Kansas said not long before she was taken from us, "I am eager to go and be with the Lord, but I am willing to stay here just as long as He wants". I heard her say that, and I have remembered it through the years. When we get to weighing up the value and blessings of our hope in Christ we are overwhelmed and full of joy. We want to be with Him now in the Spirit, in harmony with His Word, and with His people and His cause. And with this confidence and grace we can surmount life's woes and problems and live victoriously. -Leslie C. Busbee

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

History has recorded that once in a private meeting with some of his friends, the great evangelist, George Whitefield, referred to the difficulties of the gospel ministry, and said that he was weary of the burdens of the day, and was glad that in a short time his work would be done and he should depart and be with Christ. All the ones present said they had the same feeling, with the exception of a man by the name of Tennant. On seeing this, George Whitefield tapped him on the knee and said, "Well, Brother Tennant, you are the oldest man amongst us; do you not rejoice to think that your time is so near at hand when you will be called home?"

Mr. Tennant bluntly answered that he had no wish about it. Being pressed for something more definite and decided, he added, "I have nothing to do with death. My business is to live as long as I can, and as well as I can, and serve my Master as faithfully as I can, until He shall think proper to call me home." This proved to be a word in season for the great evangelist, helping him to more calmly and patiently continue on. -Wayne Murphey

Nov 23