Thursday, July 17, 2014
The Goats
I was reminded of when I inspected a house for an Insurance Company. When I arrived, I heard the sound of goats. I walked to the back and in a fenced area behind their house they had over 100 goats. It was in a nice housing area just outside of a major town. I asked if the neighbors complained and she said, "Not that I know of". I asked, "Do you eat them?". She said, "Oh no, we love them too much". I asked, "Do you breed them and sell them?"...and she said, "Oh no, we just lo...ve them too much". I asked, "Do you sell their milk?". She said, "Oh no, it is too painful for them to be milked." She then said, "Its a big problem. They keep producing more and more babies. They inbreed too much and that will cause a corrupted generation. We try to keep the brothers and sisters from each other but it is impossible." I threw up my hands and declared, "Oh My, what can be done?" She said, "We just do not know, pray for us." I shall never forget this lady and her goats. There are stories of life everywhere to be found. LOL.
GOD AND MONEY
Luke 9:23 New International Version (NIV)
23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.
Since WW2 America has enjoyed unprecedented prosperity and thus the creation of a great middle class. We have enjoyed the riches provided to us by the blood, sweat and tears of previous generations. For years now we have lived on the national credit card using the riches of future generations to enrich our life style.
There are dangers to riches and material comfort. I believe the Bible and history shows us that through suffering we gain the greatest perspective on life. I am not saying we should seek suffering for the sake of suffering. I am not saying that having money and comforts are inherently sinful. I am pointing out the dangers of such that all must be aware of. Comfort and riches have a tendency to blind us to reality and to real meaningful lives. Riches can give us a false sense of self-importance. Material things have a way of blinding us to our duty to God and our fellow man. We give $100 on Sunday when we could give $1,000. We spend $500 our pleasures and give $10 to God on Sunday. We give $20 on Sunday and then go out to eat and spend $50 on a meal that could feed 100 hungry children. So, you have $250,000? Why not leave half of that to the church for mission work or to feed the hungry, instead of heirs who may or may not appreciate it and who may in turn just waste it on more and more "things". Something to think about. We ignore this topic because it makes us uncomfortable and preachers ignore it out of fear of criticisms and attacks. I will gain no "praises of men" for writing these words. But, I have long ago given up on any such concerns. God help me to do your will.
President Kennedy in the early 1960's called our Nation to service. He created the Peace Corps to challenge men and women all over America to role up their sleeves and go to work in the poorest parts of the world to better lives. This they would do not for fame and glory or any significant material gain but because it was right. It was the call of the better angels within us all.
I urge all to think of greatness in terms of service. A successful life is not one that is about accumulating more and more money and material things but a successful life is one that is about giving away your self in the service of God and humanity. Jesus taught us that the greatest among us is he/she that serves (Matt. 23:11).
Look back on your life for the last seven days. Did your spend most of your time on yourself? Did you give this message of self service and pleasure to your family? Or, did you show them by your life and by your influence on them, that the great things in life is about serving others.
I see ads on TV about these "glorious retirement places". There you can sleep to noon every day and golf the rest of the day and then enjoy a fine meal for dinner. Such is a recipe for an early grave. Such is also the recipe for a forgotten life.
All of us, for as long as their is life and opportunity within us must be about the Father's business. Serve, work, do, sacrifice, help, and give your all to the glory of God and the salvation of man.
A life of comfort and ease makes us lazy and self centered. Each day we think of the new restaurant we shall visit, new clothes we shall buy, shopping to accumulate more things to collect in our houses to dust each week, buying the newest car on the market at a $500 a month payment. We forget about the pain and suffering all around us and all over the world. We forget about the lost everywhere.
I have watched HGTV and seen programs where they remodel a kitchen. The old kitchen is perfectly fine and much of the world would be thrilled to have such. However, the family is outraged that they have such a kitchen. Therefore, they have it completely gutted and replaced with a new kitchen costing $50,000 and up.
The church of Christ is in decline in the United States. You can argue with me all you want and try to deny such to the high heavens but it will not change the reality of massive church decline. For America as a whole the church of Christ is irrelevant to the average citizen. Jesus spoke of being the light of the world and transforming lives. What are we doing?
The first century Christians sacrificed everything and I mean everything for the cause of our Lord. That is why the church is here today Previous generations have sacrificed so much.
The average church member needs to pray more, worship more, give more, and sacrifice more for the spread of the gospel and for the growth of the Kingdom. Our success in the local church will be measured by our level of sacrifice.
Would you keep the old car you have instead of buying a new one and use the extra money to support a missionary? Would you keep the house you have instead of buying a bigger and newer one and use the extra to feed and help hungry children? Have you ever denied yourself anything for the cause of Christ?
Listen to the Bible:
1 Timothy 6:6-12New International Version (NIV)
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
Our culture of wealth, materialism, and the mad rush for more and more has blinded the church to its great mission of evangelism and service to humanity.
I pray God to forgive me for my past years of too much concern for money, and help me to now see that my life is HIS. I pray God to forgive me for my past years of too much concern for money, and help me to now see that my life is HIS. I still struggle to try to be more spiritual and more a servant and less consumed with money and material things. All that I have including my very life is HIS! PRAISE GOD!All that I have including my very life is HIS! PRAISE GOD!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
P.S. If you have bought a big, new house or new cars or remodeled your house, I am not trying to make you miserable. I rejoice in your blessings. I am just trying to point out that maybe we all should look at money and things more carefully. Maybe, we all should look at a life of service and sacrifice for the good of the church, and reaching the lost and helping the suffering as the greatest achievement of our lives.
23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.
Since WW2 America has enjoyed unprecedented prosperity and thus the creation of a great middle class. We have enjoyed the riches provided to us by the blood, sweat and tears of previous generations. For years now we have lived on the national credit card using the riches of future generations to enrich our life style.
There are dangers to riches and material comfort. I believe the Bible and history shows us that through suffering we gain the greatest perspective on life. I am not saying we should seek suffering for the sake of suffering. I am not saying that having money and comforts are inherently sinful. I am pointing out the dangers of such that all must be aware of. Comfort and riches have a tendency to blind us to reality and to real meaningful lives. Riches can give us a false sense of self-importance. Material things have a way of blinding us to our duty to God and our fellow man. We give $100 on Sunday when we could give $1,000. We spend $500 our pleasures and give $10 to God on Sunday. We give $20 on Sunday and then go out to eat and spend $50 on a meal that could feed 100 hungry children. So, you have $250,000? Why not leave half of that to the church for mission work or to feed the hungry, instead of heirs who may or may not appreciate it and who may in turn just waste it on more and more "things". Something to think about. We ignore this topic because it makes us uncomfortable and preachers ignore it out of fear of criticisms and attacks. I will gain no "praises of men" for writing these words. But, I have long ago given up on any such concerns. God help me to do your will.
President Kennedy in the early 1960's called our Nation to service. He created the Peace Corps to challenge men and women all over America to role up their sleeves and go to work in the poorest parts of the world to better lives. This they would do not for fame and glory or any significant material gain but because it was right. It was the call of the better angels within us all.
I urge all to think of greatness in terms of service. A successful life is not one that is about accumulating more and more money and material things but a successful life is one that is about giving away your self in the service of God and humanity. Jesus taught us that the greatest among us is he/she that serves (Matt. 23:11).
Look back on your life for the last seven days. Did your spend most of your time on yourself? Did you give this message of self service and pleasure to your family? Or, did you show them by your life and by your influence on them, that the great things in life is about serving others.
I see ads on TV about these "glorious retirement places". There you can sleep to noon every day and golf the rest of the day and then enjoy a fine meal for dinner. Such is a recipe for an early grave. Such is also the recipe for a forgotten life.
All of us, for as long as their is life and opportunity within us must be about the Father's business. Serve, work, do, sacrifice, help, and give your all to the glory of God and the salvation of man.
A life of comfort and ease makes us lazy and self centered. Each day we think of the new restaurant we shall visit, new clothes we shall buy, shopping to accumulate more things to collect in our houses to dust each week, buying the newest car on the market at a $500 a month payment. We forget about the pain and suffering all around us and all over the world. We forget about the lost everywhere.
I have watched HGTV and seen programs where they remodel a kitchen. The old kitchen is perfectly fine and much of the world would be thrilled to have such. However, the family is outraged that they have such a kitchen. Therefore, they have it completely gutted and replaced with a new kitchen costing $50,000 and up.
The church of Christ is in decline in the United States. You can argue with me all you want and try to deny such to the high heavens but it will not change the reality of massive church decline. For America as a whole the church of Christ is irrelevant to the average citizen. Jesus spoke of being the light of the world and transforming lives. What are we doing?
The first century Christians sacrificed everything and I mean everything for the cause of our Lord. That is why the church is here today Previous generations have sacrificed so much.
The average church member needs to pray more, worship more, give more, and sacrifice more for the spread of the gospel and for the growth of the Kingdom. Our success in the local church will be measured by our level of sacrifice.
Would you keep the old car you have instead of buying a new one and use the extra money to support a missionary? Would you keep the house you have instead of buying a bigger and newer one and use the extra to feed and help hungry children? Have you ever denied yourself anything for the cause of Christ?
Listen to the Bible:
1 Timothy 6:6-12New International Version (NIV)
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
Our culture of wealth, materialism, and the mad rush for more and more has blinded the church to its great mission of evangelism and service to humanity.
I pray God to forgive me for my past years of too much concern for money, and help me to now see that my life is HIS. I pray God to forgive me for my past years of too much concern for money, and help me to now see that my life is HIS. I still struggle to try to be more spiritual and more a servant and less consumed with money and material things. All that I have including my very life is HIS! PRAISE GOD!All that I have including my very life is HIS! PRAISE GOD!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
P.S. If you have bought a big, new house or new cars or remodeled your house, I am not trying to make you miserable. I rejoice in your blessings. I am just trying to point out that maybe we all should look at money and things more carefully. Maybe, we all should look at a life of service and sacrifice for the good of the church, and reaching the lost and helping the suffering as the greatest achievement of our lives.
DO YOU LOVE AMERICA?
DO YOU LOVE AMERICA?
Do you love America? What would you sacrifice for the survival of the
United States of America?
All who read these lines have been blessed so much. You have freedom.
You have material gain and pleasures unknown to so many in the world.
So many have bled, suffered and died to give us what we all now enjoy.
Most of us have never been out anything at all for the security and preservation
of our beloved land.
I have walked by many of the graves at Arlington National Cemetery in
Washington D.C. Those brave soldiers gave their all for me, my family and all
Americans. What have I given?
Oh, I pay taxes. Out of my prosperity I have paid taxes. For those
taxes I get a world class military to protect me during the day and guard me as
I sleep at night. I get the police and fire departments which are always
ready on stand by to come to my aid. I get a world class education system that
has blessed my life and my family. In old age I will get Social Security and
for many Americans they will draw out far more than they paid. I get great
medical care. There is a great social net to catch me if I fall into poverty
and need help. I have freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of
assembly, freedom of the press and on and on I could go. What a great
Country!
I have known brave Veterans of WW1, WW2, Korea, Vietnam and the current
wars. I have seen those who bare in their bodies terrible scars and
disabilities. Others carry great injury to their minds for life. I have
known children whose father's never came home. I have seen marriages destroyed
because soldiers that returned were never the same and thus their marriage was
ended. Those that died in war paid the ultimate price. Those that survive and
carry such pain pay for a lifetime. When I see an injured veteran struggling to
get out and do something, I go to them and thank them for their service. My
words of thanks seem small compared to what they have done. I struggle to know
what to do.
Some time ago, I was getting gas at the service station. A man in a bay
next to mine was crippled and he was getting out of his van and dropped his
keys. He had a brace on his body and canes he used but was unable to bend
over. He asked for my help. I gladly assisted him. As I walked around to
the back and over to my car I noticed on his car tags, "Vietnam Veteran". I
went back, shook his hand and thanked him for his service to our Country. He
had tears and told me it meant a lot. He then told me his story of pain and
sorrow in Viet Nam. He did not tell me of his personal tragedy but of his
buddies who died and how he never can forget them. He said only recently had
he been able to talk about it all. I led a prayer right then for him and his
family and those that died in Viet Nam and their families. The man is very
special to me.
Such Veterans make me think and I am humbled by their presence. God bless
them, every one of them.
I think of THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE and these words: "And for the
support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine
providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes and our
sacred Honor." Wow, what words! That first generation of Americans risked
everything and suffered great loss to give us our Nation.
So, what would you be willing to sacrifice for the United States of
America? Would you give up all your money? Would you sign over your house,
your car and all personal possessions. Then, start over with no material
things, but have left the treasures of liberty of The United States Of
America.
Old Glory faces many problems today. There is greed, corruption in high
offices of government, selfishness, immorality, and criminals. But, such has
always been true to some level. As Americans we should always vote and express
our concerns to our leaders about what is happening. But, in the end, let us
always bow our head in fervent prayer for this land we love, America. Many say
terrible things about our leaders and things happening in America. Often those
screaming the loudest do not even know what they are talking about. But, they
have the freedom to declare their ignorance if they so desire. God bless
America!
In America's hour of need, if we Americans are not willing to sacrifice
everything including our lives to preserve our liberty then we will in the end,
lose everything!
God bless THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
LEADERSHIP
LEADERSHIP
For over 40 years I have studied the history of America. I have noticed some identifying characteristics of great leaders. Here they are:
1. Successful leaders have wisdom. They are able to see way down the road the consequences of decisions made today.
2. Successful leaders have courage. Despite criticism and attacks they will stay true and firm to their convictions.
3. Successful leaders are good communicators. They know what they believe and effectively express such to the people.
4. Successful leaders are leaders. They can work with others to get things done. They know the difference between principle and methodology. They are able to negotiate with others to achieve something good.
5. Successful leaders are good negotiators. A leader may be elected to office. But he/she realizes that others were elected for their office as well. A good leader realizes even though he/she may have been elected to an office that not all voted for them. They must work to represent all the people and bring people together.
6. Successful leaders take as a sacred duty the office that they hold. They realize that in a free society that they as leaders have the solemn duty to serve well and serve with honor.
7. Successful leaders realize it is never about themselves but it is about the people they serve and principles upon which they stand. They are leaders of faith in God and the Bible and given to fervent prayer.
We are living in a time in which there exists a famine of leadership. This drought of leadership is to be found in education, business, government, religion, and the home. There are many reasons why we as a people face such a leadership vacuum. But, above all I feel the major reason for the void in leadership is spiritual. When you destroy the foundations all will fall upon you. A solid foundation of faith in God, the Bible, righteousness, human rights, and liberty builds a great nation. God bless America!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
"If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?" (Psa. 11:3).
For over 40 years I have studied the history of America. I have noticed some identifying characteristics of great leaders. Here they are:
1. Successful leaders have wisdom. They are able to see way down the road the consequences of decisions made today.
2. Successful leaders have courage. Despite criticism and attacks they will stay true and firm to their convictions.
3. Successful leaders are good communicators. They know what they believe and effectively express such to the people.
4. Successful leaders are leaders. They can work with others to get things done. They know the difference between principle and methodology. They are able to negotiate with others to achieve something good.
5. Successful leaders are good negotiators. A leader may be elected to office. But he/she realizes that others were elected for their office as well. A good leader realizes even though he/she may have been elected to an office that not all voted for them. They must work to represent all the people and bring people together.
6. Successful leaders take as a sacred duty the office that they hold. They realize that in a free society that they as leaders have the solemn duty to serve well and serve with honor.
7. Successful leaders realize it is never about themselves but it is about the people they serve and principles upon which they stand. They are leaders of faith in God and the Bible and given to fervent prayer.
We are living in a time in which there exists a famine of leadership. This drought of leadership is to be found in education, business, government, religion, and the home. There are many reasons why we as a people face such a leadership vacuum. But, above all I feel the major reason for the void in leadership is spiritual. When you destroy the foundations all will fall upon you. A solid foundation of faith in God, the Bible, righteousness, human rights, and liberty builds a great nation. God bless America!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
"If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?" (Psa. 11:3).
FAMILY
Family is such a beautiful word. It is not in blood that there exists real family. It is not in having the same last name or relations. Family is the shared memories of life.
When family can get together and remember the birth of children, witnessing marriage vows, and crying over the death of patricharchs, it is then that you have family. It is MEMORY and it is a bond and a connection that moves through the ages and touches the past, the present and the future.
Family is a magical word! Treasure your family and invest in such for it is one of the few things in life that can be timeless.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
When family can get together and remember the birth of children, witnessing marriage vows, and crying over the death of patricharchs, it is then that you have family. It is MEMORY and it is a bond and a connection that moves through the ages and touches the past, the present and the future.
Family is a magical word! Treasure your family and invest in such for it is one of the few things in life that can be timeless.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
My Prayer
My Prayer:
Oh Heavenly Father: Thank you for a night of rest and restoration. Thank you for this glorious morning. Thank you for another day of life and opportunity. Thank you for my dear and devoted wife. Thank you for my children and their families, my beloved grandchildren, and all my family. Thank you for my father and bless him as he struggles in his aged years. Thank you for my Mimzy now on my desk, watching me write these words. Thank you for the church everywhere and thank you for the honor of preaching and teaching your words. Thank you for your Son who died that I and others might live. To you, Oh God I give glory, honor and praise!
Now, Oh God direct my paths daily and lead me not into temptation but deliver me from evil. Protect all the people of the world from evil and help all to look to you Oh God for love, grace, and mercy. Help all the world to seek you, Oh God and find you. Help all to hear the gospel and be saved.
Oh God, I do not understand many things and often feel lost in a wilderness but you Oh God know all things. Lead me gently through this life and bring me home safe to you.
In this life Oh God, so many things seem amiss. Something is just not right. I know Oh God, that it is because I am separated from you by this veil of tears. I long for the day to be in your arms and safe in glory. Until then Oh God, let me do all the good I can do, as little harm as possible, and finally receive me into your Kingdom of glory and brightness.
Forgive me of my sins and help me to be a messenger of your peace!
Glory and Glory and Glory be unto your most wonderful name, my God!
In Jesus Name, Amen.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
Oh Heavenly Father: Thank you for a night of rest and restoration. Thank you for this glorious morning. Thank you for another day of life and opportunity. Thank you for my dear and devoted wife. Thank you for my children and their families, my beloved grandchildren, and all my family. Thank you for my father and bless him as he struggles in his aged years. Thank you for my Mimzy now on my desk, watching me write these words. Thank you for the church everywhere and thank you for the honor of preaching and teaching your words. Thank you for your Son who died that I and others might live. To you, Oh God I give glory, honor and praise!
Now, Oh God direct my paths daily and lead me not into temptation but deliver me from evil. Protect all the people of the world from evil and help all to look to you Oh God for love, grace, and mercy. Help all the world to seek you, Oh God and find you. Help all to hear the gospel and be saved.
Oh God, I do not understand many things and often feel lost in a wilderness but you Oh God know all things. Lead me gently through this life and bring me home safe to you.
In this life Oh God, so many things seem amiss. Something is just not right. I know Oh God, that it is because I am separated from you by this veil of tears. I long for the day to be in your arms and safe in glory. Until then Oh God, let me do all the good I can do, as little harm as possible, and finally receive me into your Kingdom of glory and brightness.
Forgive me of my sins and help me to be a messenger of your peace!
Glory and Glory and Glory be unto your most wonderful name, my God!
In Jesus Name, Amen.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
PRAY FOR THE PEACE OF ISRAEL
I pray for the peace of Israel. I see where Hamas is attacking Israel day and night with missiles and rockets designed to kill as many Jewish people as possible. Hamas refuses to recognize the State of Israel. They refuse to recognize Israel's right to exist. They adhere to a policy of death to all Jews. It reminds you of Hitler and the Nazi's who sought the extermination of the Jews in Germany and Europe and eventually all of the world. Such is the evil of humanity. Israel is smart and tough and has the power to wipe out Hamas from the Gaza Strip but Israel has shown restraint However, Hamas is giving Israel no choice but to invade Gaza and end this nightmare for its people.
We as Americans share much with the nation of Israel. We share common values of freedom and respect for human life. We share common ethical values rooted in the Judeo Christian ethics Bible. Israel is one of the few nations in the Middle East that is sane and rational and that our nation can reason with.
From a Christian standpoint we all owe much to faithful Jewish people. Jesus Christ was in the flesh a Jew. Joseph and Mary, the parents of Jesus in the flesh were Jewish. Peter and Paul, the great Apostles were Jewish. It was Jewish Christians that gave us the NT and spread Christianity to all the world. We owe them much and love their memory.
I believe God has made clear that Israel will always be until the end of the world. They are hardened in that as a people today in the 21st Century, they have refused to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior from sin. However, they exists there as a living testament to the truthfulness of all the Bible. Their history is wondrous, glorious and even mysterious. The world today does not know quite what to do with them.
I pray for the peace of Israel. I pray for all of the Middle East. I pray all could live together in love and peace. The greatest person who ever walked the earth, Jesus Christ was born there and He came to give love and peace to all.
The Jews today like all people of the world can be saved from their sins through Jesus Christ our Lord. I pray for their physical safety and I pray for their spiritual salvation. There is such evil aligned against them. All who love good and seek peace should help Israel survive and overcome this present evil aggression.
* Allen Ashlock, 2014
We as Americans share much with the nation of Israel. We share common values of freedom and respect for human life. We share common ethical values rooted in the Judeo Christian ethics Bible. Israel is one of the few nations in the Middle East that is sane and rational and that our nation can reason with.
From a Christian standpoint we all owe much to faithful Jewish people. Jesus Christ was in the flesh a Jew. Joseph and Mary, the parents of Jesus in the flesh were Jewish. Peter and Paul, the great Apostles were Jewish. It was Jewish Christians that gave us the NT and spread Christianity to all the world. We owe them much and love their memory.
I believe God has made clear that Israel will always be until the end of the world. They are hardened in that as a people today in the 21st Century, they have refused to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior from sin. However, they exists there as a living testament to the truthfulness of all the Bible. Their history is wondrous, glorious and even mysterious. The world today does not know quite what to do with them.
I pray for the peace of Israel. I pray for all of the Middle East. I pray all could live together in love and peace. The greatest person who ever walked the earth, Jesus Christ was born there and He came to give love and peace to all.
The Jews today like all people of the world can be saved from their sins through Jesus Christ our Lord. I pray for their physical safety and I pray for their spiritual salvation. There is such evil aligned against them. All who love good and seek peace should help Israel survive and overcome this present evil aggression.
* Allen Ashlock, 2014
THINKING ON JESUS CHRIST
Thinking on Jesus Christ!
I have been reading all of the gospel of Mark each morning for the last week. I find reading it over and over like any passage or book of the Bible is fascinating.
As I read I take a journey back in time. I go back to that world of the first century and see myself standing off to the side unnoticed. I observe everything. I listen to everything that is said. I soak it all in with joy.
First, I am taken back by how much Jesus did in such a very short time. I have come to the belief that every day and hour of his life was well planned and thought out. Nothing happened by accident. He was on a schedule of life and redemption. He fulfilled everything perfectly. Too much was at stake to leave anything to chance. The redemption of humanity from Adam and Eve to the last sinner on earth hung in the balance.
Second, I am always taken back by the nature of Jesus Christ. He was both human and divine. Many questions are not answered as to how this all worked. But, it is glorious to contemplate. He was there at the creation, He was there when Adam and Eve sinned and were driven out of the garden, He was there with Noah in the Ark, He was there with Abraham and Joseph. He was there with Moses and the children of Israel as they left slavery in Egypt. He was there with Joshua in taking the promised land. He was there with Samson and his mighty strength and all the Judges of Israel. He was there with King Saul as he led Israel, and He turned away when Saul rejected God. He was there with young David as the stone left his sling shot and hit the great, evil giant Goliath and brought him down. He was there with David as he led Israel to greatness. He was there when David repented of sin and He forgave him. He was there with Solomon as he expanded Israel to the glory that was never to be surpassed. He was there with all the great prophets of Israel. He was there and wept when Jerusalem was destroyed. He was with Daniel in the lion's den. He was with Daniel all his life and brought him to greatness. He was always there. Now this King of Kings and Lord of Lord's is in the gospel of Mark and He is the savior of the world.
Third, I am amazed at the power of His teachings. To be there to listen to Jesus speak and to look into His eyes would be an awesome experience. I would hang on every word and try desperately to quickly memorize all his lessons. He touched the human heart. He drove the message home like no one could ever do. He saw my real needs and He fulfilled them. I would hunger and thirst for more and more from Him. Hearing Him would make the deepest longings of my soul and heart vibrate and find satisfaction. After listening to Him, I would never be the same.
Fourth, I see Him on a great rescue mission. He is telling me to not get so caught up in this world and what it has to offer. He is telling me to see, to really see what life is all about. He is calling me to fulfill the mission of my existence. He is calling me home.
I have always read the gospels. I studied and outlined them. Too often I was looking for a legal code of rules and regulations to hold over myself and others. Now, I read and see the beautiful Savior. Now, I grow deeper in love with Him day by day. I am thankful I have lived long enough to see more clearly the most amazing person of all of human history. He is my Lord, my King, my Savior, and my Redeemer! I want to praise Him more and more. I look forward to tomorrow and another adventure with my Lord as He shows me Himself in the Gospel of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Each time I read a Gospel I learn more and more. I never master the subject but I pray that in the effort the subject (Jesus Christ) might master me.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
I have been reading all of the gospel of Mark each morning for the last week. I find reading it over and over like any passage or book of the Bible is fascinating.
As I read I take a journey back in time. I go back to that world of the first century and see myself standing off to the side unnoticed. I observe everything. I listen to everything that is said. I soak it all in with joy.
First, I am taken back by how much Jesus did in such a very short time. I have come to the belief that every day and hour of his life was well planned and thought out. Nothing happened by accident. He was on a schedule of life and redemption. He fulfilled everything perfectly. Too much was at stake to leave anything to chance. The redemption of humanity from Adam and Eve to the last sinner on earth hung in the balance.
Second, I am always taken back by the nature of Jesus Christ. He was both human and divine. Many questions are not answered as to how this all worked. But, it is glorious to contemplate. He was there at the creation, He was there when Adam and Eve sinned and were driven out of the garden, He was there with Noah in the Ark, He was there with Abraham and Joseph. He was there with Moses and the children of Israel as they left slavery in Egypt. He was there with Joshua in taking the promised land. He was there with Samson and his mighty strength and all the Judges of Israel. He was there with King Saul as he led Israel, and He turned away when Saul rejected God. He was there with young David as the stone left his sling shot and hit the great, evil giant Goliath and brought him down. He was there with David as he led Israel to greatness. He was there when David repented of sin and He forgave him. He was there with Solomon as he expanded Israel to the glory that was never to be surpassed. He was there with all the great prophets of Israel. He was there and wept when Jerusalem was destroyed. He was with Daniel in the lion's den. He was with Daniel all his life and brought him to greatness. He was always there. Now this King of Kings and Lord of Lord's is in the gospel of Mark and He is the savior of the world.
Third, I am amazed at the power of His teachings. To be there to listen to Jesus speak and to look into His eyes would be an awesome experience. I would hang on every word and try desperately to quickly memorize all his lessons. He touched the human heart. He drove the message home like no one could ever do. He saw my real needs and He fulfilled them. I would hunger and thirst for more and more from Him. Hearing Him would make the deepest longings of my soul and heart vibrate and find satisfaction. After listening to Him, I would never be the same.
Fourth, I see Him on a great rescue mission. He is telling me to not get so caught up in this world and what it has to offer. He is telling me to see, to really see what life is all about. He is calling me to fulfill the mission of my existence. He is calling me home.
I have always read the gospels. I studied and outlined them. Too often I was looking for a legal code of rules and regulations to hold over myself and others. Now, I read and see the beautiful Savior. Now, I grow deeper in love with Him day by day. I am thankful I have lived long enough to see more clearly the most amazing person of all of human history. He is my Lord, my King, my Savior, and my Redeemer! I want to praise Him more and more. I look forward to tomorrow and another adventure with my Lord as He shows me Himself in the Gospel of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Each time I read a Gospel I learn more and more. I never master the subject but I pray that in the effort the subject (Jesus Christ) might master me.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
WHY WE STUDY (?)
Some study to learn more information to support what they already believe. Some study to prove others wrong and themselves right. Others study to gather facts with no certain conclusions about anything. Still others study to learn truth and will follow such wherever it leads. Which are you?
Open your mind to the world around you and to life in general. Open your mind as you study the Bible and seek to find where God wishes you to go. You may find, like Abraham of old that you are sent forth on a new journey to find a new land.
God bless us all as we explore the Bible and the world and may we do so with openness, joy, faith, courage, and great excitement!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." (Matthew 7:7).
Open your mind to the world around you and to life in general. Open your mind as you study the Bible and seek to find where God wishes you to go. You may find, like Abraham of old that you are sent forth on a new journey to find a new land.
God bless us all as we explore the Bible and the world and may we do so with openness, joy, faith, courage, and great excitement!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." (Matthew 7:7).
THE GREAT BOOK THE BIBLE
I submit to you that the Bible is the greatest book on earth. There is a strange power to the Bible. Remember, the Bible came from the mind of God. That is an awesome thought. It is no ordinary book. There it sits in your house right now. In fact, you may have several copies of this amazing book. Do you realize how unique it is and the power that is in the pages of this marvelous book?
We hear sometimes the word, "Extraterrestrial life". People speculate about such all the time but as of this date no confirmed evidence exists that such is a reality. However, I believe in extraterrestrial life. Extraterrestrial life is life not of this planet. God is not of this world. He is eternal. The angels are not of this world. Yet, I am as sure of their existence as I am of myself, my wife and family. God gave us the Bible. His mind is all through the Bible. His fingerprints are everywhere to be seen in the pages of the Bible.
No one shall ever master the Bible. I have read and studied the Bible to some level for over 50 years. I have received a College degree in Bible. I have studied the Bible in advance courses in three Graduate Schools. I have also studied ancient and classical history at APU. Still, I learn from the Bible every day. My study is never complete.
The Bible has what might be called a mystical power. Such would be expected from a book from the Almighty God! It has wondrous powers that can change your life. After years of study of the Word I now sense this power more than at any time in my life. It seems to radiate from the Book. Its words are powerful and spiritual and enter my mind and my soul. The more I reflect on these words and ponder their meaning the more I sense something glorious going on. The Holy Spirit of God moves through the pages of the Word and into your being.
I am telling you my good friends, saturate yourself with the Words of the Bible. If you will do this, then you will find yourself swept up on a journey moving you forward to your Creator and to a world you never dreamed existed.
It takes time. You have to spend time with the Bible. You have to wear out a few copies. You have to fill your soul with its precious words. The Bible will test your character before revealing its mighty secrets. Soon your thoughts and attitudes will change. Soon, your perceptions of all things will be altered. You will see the world as you have never seen it and be mesmerized by such. The eternal mind of GOD produced the Bible. Think on that.
The Bible will pull you inward to its glorious power and secrets. As you discover its timeless secrets your very being will be altered. I believe deep in your DNA is a code that cries out for God. Remember, the whole of your very existence is to reverence God and Honor His will (Eccl. 12:13,14). In time people around you will notice different things about you. You can tell a lot about people and the kind of people that influence them. You will be influenced by the Mighty Word and people will sense something amazingly different about you.
Read these moving words: "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account." (Heb. 4:12,13). We often read a passage and fail to see the wondrous truths of such. This passage affirms the power of the Bible and its ability to move deep into your very being. These are powerful words and challenges us always.
All over the world there are untold millions and millions of copies of this precious Book. If only people could realize the awesome, eternal treasure that is right before them.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
We hear sometimes the word, "Extraterrestrial life". People speculate about such all the time but as of this date no confirmed evidence exists that such is a reality. However, I believe in extraterrestrial life. Extraterrestrial life is life not of this planet. God is not of this world. He is eternal. The angels are not of this world. Yet, I am as sure of their existence as I am of myself, my wife and family. God gave us the Bible. His mind is all through the Bible. His fingerprints are everywhere to be seen in the pages of the Bible.
No one shall ever master the Bible. I have read and studied the Bible to some level for over 50 years. I have received a College degree in Bible. I have studied the Bible in advance courses in three Graduate Schools. I have also studied ancient and classical history at APU. Still, I learn from the Bible every day. My study is never complete.
The Bible has what might be called a mystical power. Such would be expected from a book from the Almighty God! It has wondrous powers that can change your life. After years of study of the Word I now sense this power more than at any time in my life. It seems to radiate from the Book. Its words are powerful and spiritual and enter my mind and my soul. The more I reflect on these words and ponder their meaning the more I sense something glorious going on. The Holy Spirit of God moves through the pages of the Word and into your being.
I am telling you my good friends, saturate yourself with the Words of the Bible. If you will do this, then you will find yourself swept up on a journey moving you forward to your Creator and to a world you never dreamed existed.
It takes time. You have to spend time with the Bible. You have to wear out a few copies. You have to fill your soul with its precious words. The Bible will test your character before revealing its mighty secrets. Soon your thoughts and attitudes will change. Soon, your perceptions of all things will be altered. You will see the world as you have never seen it and be mesmerized by such. The eternal mind of GOD produced the Bible. Think on that.
The Bible will pull you inward to its glorious power and secrets. As you discover its timeless secrets your very being will be altered. I believe deep in your DNA is a code that cries out for God. Remember, the whole of your very existence is to reverence God and Honor His will (Eccl. 12:13,14). In time people around you will notice different things about you. You can tell a lot about people and the kind of people that influence them. You will be influenced by the Mighty Word and people will sense something amazingly different about you.
Read these moving words: "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account." (Heb. 4:12,13). We often read a passage and fail to see the wondrous truths of such. This passage affirms the power of the Bible and its ability to move deep into your very being. These are powerful words and challenges us always.
All over the world there are untold millions and millions of copies of this precious Book. If only people could realize the awesome, eternal treasure that is right before them.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
FINDING MEANING IN LIFE
Why do we live day by day? Oh my friends, your purpose for living is this: to find God, to know God, to love God, and to fully embrace Him. In all of this you are making preparations to go and be with God for eternity in the New Heaven and the New Earth (Revelation 21).
Daily our lives should be filled with prayer and reading the WORD. Daily we should strive to impact our children and family to walk with God. Daily our task is to reflect HIs image to others so they too might be drawn into the glory that belongs to the Lord.
In this life we work at secular jobs to earn a living for ourselves and family. But, even in this we live and walk with God.
In this life we have a family to care for and love and be with. With our family we cry together, we laugh together and we live life. Even in this we walk with God and reflect His glory.
In this life we are citizens of the United States of America. But, even in this relationship we always walk with God to show forth His praise and His glory.
Our faith must be priority one. Our mission is to leave this earth and travel to a world beyond our greatest imagination. Time here passes fast and is very brief. Eternity is endless and glorious for those who give their lives to the Master!
So, my dear ones, be a Christian and live faithful! For, in so doing you will live the greatest life that is possible and then move into a world that will thrill you and excite you for eternity! God be with you!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
Daily our lives should be filled with prayer and reading the WORD. Daily we should strive to impact our children and family to walk with God. Daily our task is to reflect HIs image to others so they too might be drawn into the glory that belongs to the Lord.
In this life we work at secular jobs to earn a living for ourselves and family. But, even in this we live and walk with God.
In this life we have a family to care for and love and be with. With our family we cry together, we laugh together and we live life. Even in this we walk with God and reflect His glory.
In this life we are citizens of the United States of America. But, even in this relationship we always walk with God to show forth His praise and His glory.
Our faith must be priority one. Our mission is to leave this earth and travel to a world beyond our greatest imagination. Time here passes fast and is very brief. Eternity is endless and glorious for those who give their lives to the Master!
So, my dear ones, be a Christian and live faithful! For, in so doing you will live the greatest life that is possible and then move into a world that will thrill you and excite you for eternity! God be with you!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
SHOWING PARTIALITY
Showing Partiality
If I were the right color and rich and famous would you honor me with the best seats and best food? If I were good looking and driving a new car would you listen to my words and thoughts with great interest?
In America we honor the rich and successful. We have a definition of success that sees the big house, new cars, fine clothes and successful career as the hallmark of greatness.
However, in that lowly homeless man there could exists more wisdom than all the Fortune 500 Corporations.
The Bible talks of such. Listen to these words.
James 2:1-9New International Version (NIV)
Favoritism Forbidden
2 "My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. 2 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. 3 If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” 4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?
5 Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 6 But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong?
8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,”[a] you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers."
I have sit in big conference rooms at the top floors of major Banks in Jonesboro and listened to the rich and influential. I have traveled to large cities in America and been in seminars of major Universities. I have listened to the rich and powerful and educated. I have learned from them, yes. However, I have also shaken hands with the poor and lowly of life who had little. I must say in all of my experiences it has been that person of poverty and lowliness of life that has taught me more than any. My grandfather never had a lot. He worked as a sharecropper farmer his whole life. But he taught me volumes. My own father has never been a rich man but oh how he has taught me. By and large the rich and powerful I have known have taught me more about what not to be rather than what to be.
In the church, I am sad to report that in most cases I have seen the same thing that I saw in the world. The wealthy and powerful are esteemed. Not so much for their "great wisdom" but for what they have and who they are. That man siting in the pew driving an old truck and wearing clothes not so fancy and new is often ignored. Wisdom is lost.
I remember on an occasion visiting with a man with learning issues and who was poor in the eyes of men. He was wise in many ways and I hung on his every word. Another man came up to me to rudely interrupt me. This man had money and influence. I continued my conversation with the man I was talking with and when finished I turned to the man of "influence". He was upset that I "wasted my time" as he would say, with this other man, when he had things to discuss with me. I told him that the man he was referring to was a creation of God and loved by God just as much as he is loved. I shamed him for his prejudiced.
All across America and in the church there is great wisdom waiting to be invited to the table of influence. Many of these forgotten souls have more to offer than all the Ph.D degrees and big bank accounts combined.
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn was a great man. He wrote several books. He came out of the death camps of Stalin of Russia. Solzhenitsyn was a genius in many ways. He escaped to the United States and was hailed as a great man. He spoke to a packed house at Harvard. He spoke of the wisdom of the ordinary men and women of America. He said you will find more wisdom there then all the great centers of learning. It was not the message the Harvard crowd wanted to hear. He spoke of the solutions to our national problems and that such could be found in the heartland of America among the average men and women, if America would listen. Interesting.
So often the wealthy and elite of this earth become so full of themselves that they become blind to real wisdom and real understanding. Money and worldly fame and education can often blind the minds of men and women. Today, in America in government and great seats of power and fame sits some of the most ignorant men and women to be found anywhere. I am not saying this is always the case. But, I am saying that money and vanity often blind people and they become deceived and never realize such.
Often as one gets older others discount them and discard their voice. We often fail to honor the aged among us. They have a world of wisdom to offer and yet we turn a deaf ear.
Remember when Jesus walked the earth the poor and forgotten heard him gladly, and the rich and powerful showed themselves to be truly ignorant in that they turned against the blessed Lord (with few exceptions).
I have noticed in the past of my life that when some thought I had money they wanted to be with me. If they thought I had nothing, they move on. If they thought I was in a prestigious position, they wanted to be with me or listen to me. If not, they have no time for me. So, the drum beat continues onward. Ah, such is life.
Something to think about!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
If I were the right color and rich and famous would you honor me with the best seats and best food? If I were good looking and driving a new car would you listen to my words and thoughts with great interest?
In America we honor the rich and successful. We have a definition of success that sees the big house, new cars, fine clothes and successful career as the hallmark of greatness.
However, in that lowly homeless man there could exists more wisdom than all the Fortune 500 Corporations.
The Bible talks of such. Listen to these words.
James 2:1-9New International Version (NIV)
Favoritism Forbidden
2 "My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. 2 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. 3 If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” 4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?
5 Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 6 But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong?
8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,”[a] you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers."
I have sit in big conference rooms at the top floors of major Banks in Jonesboro and listened to the rich and influential. I have traveled to large cities in America and been in seminars of major Universities. I have listened to the rich and powerful and educated. I have learned from them, yes. However, I have also shaken hands with the poor and lowly of life who had little. I must say in all of my experiences it has been that person of poverty and lowliness of life that has taught me more than any. My grandfather never had a lot. He worked as a sharecropper farmer his whole life. But he taught me volumes. My own father has never been a rich man but oh how he has taught me. By and large the rich and powerful I have known have taught me more about what not to be rather than what to be.
In the church, I am sad to report that in most cases I have seen the same thing that I saw in the world. The wealthy and powerful are esteemed. Not so much for their "great wisdom" but for what they have and who they are. That man siting in the pew driving an old truck and wearing clothes not so fancy and new is often ignored. Wisdom is lost.
I remember on an occasion visiting with a man with learning issues and who was poor in the eyes of men. He was wise in many ways and I hung on his every word. Another man came up to me to rudely interrupt me. This man had money and influence. I continued my conversation with the man I was talking with and when finished I turned to the man of "influence". He was upset that I "wasted my time" as he would say, with this other man, when he had things to discuss with me. I told him that the man he was referring to was a creation of God and loved by God just as much as he is loved. I shamed him for his prejudiced.
All across America and in the church there is great wisdom waiting to be invited to the table of influence. Many of these forgotten souls have more to offer than all the Ph.D degrees and big bank accounts combined.
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn was a great man. He wrote several books. He came out of the death camps of Stalin of Russia. Solzhenitsyn was a genius in many ways. He escaped to the United States and was hailed as a great man. He spoke to a packed house at Harvard. He spoke of the wisdom of the ordinary men and women of America. He said you will find more wisdom there then all the great centers of learning. It was not the message the Harvard crowd wanted to hear. He spoke of the solutions to our national problems and that such could be found in the heartland of America among the average men and women, if America would listen. Interesting.
So often the wealthy and elite of this earth become so full of themselves that they become blind to real wisdom and real understanding. Money and worldly fame and education can often blind the minds of men and women. Today, in America in government and great seats of power and fame sits some of the most ignorant men and women to be found anywhere. I am not saying this is always the case. But, I am saying that money and vanity often blind people and they become deceived and never realize such.
Often as one gets older others discount them and discard their voice. We often fail to honor the aged among us. They have a world of wisdom to offer and yet we turn a deaf ear.
Remember when Jesus walked the earth the poor and forgotten heard him gladly, and the rich and powerful showed themselves to be truly ignorant in that they turned against the blessed Lord (with few exceptions).
I have noticed in the past of my life that when some thought I had money they wanted to be with me. If they thought I had nothing, they move on. If they thought I was in a prestigious position, they wanted to be with me or listen to me. If not, they have no time for me. So, the drum beat continues onward. Ah, such is life.
Something to think about!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
A CHALLENGE TO CHURCHES:
A CHALLENGE TO CHURCHES:
I urge congregations and especially elders to lead the way in bringing in the elderly generation to the table of decisions. I wrote an earlier article here on PARTIALITY and talked of how elderly people are often moved aside. They are moved aside by society and by the church in too many cases. I believe they represent an enormous amount of wisdom and experience. Yet, we discount them and move them out.
Back in the 1990's there was a trend moving through the brotherhood to establish a SENIOR MINISTRY. Even ministers were hired to work with the seniors. That seems to have died down and been moved away from consideration. Now, when I do see such a ministry it is just a retirement club and going to see the fall leaves and go here and there for entertainment and pleasure. That is fine for good fellowship but I am talking about much more here. I believe the seniors can be an amazing power for good in the church.
I would urge the elders to form a brain trust and allow these seniors to be brought to the table of decisions. They could be a great source of wisdom about the past and what has worked and provide good insights into the church and its future.
When churches integrate all ages of the church into ministry and have them all working together then you have the makings of a true family church. All generations can share their experiences, wisdom, and thoughts to bless everyone.
Again, it has become a powerful cultural force that tends to push our senior citizens aside and they are soon forgotten. It will be hard to swim up stream and make the changes here needed. But, those churches that do, will find the windows of blessings opened wide and the grace of God flowing into the body.
"Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, 2 older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity." (I Timothy 5:1,2).
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
I urge congregations and especially elders to lead the way in bringing in the elderly generation to the table of decisions. I wrote an earlier article here on PARTIALITY and talked of how elderly people are often moved aside. They are moved aside by society and by the church in too many cases. I believe they represent an enormous amount of wisdom and experience. Yet, we discount them and move them out.
Back in the 1990's there was a trend moving through the brotherhood to establish a SENIOR MINISTRY. Even ministers were hired to work with the seniors. That seems to have died down and been moved away from consideration. Now, when I do see such a ministry it is just a retirement club and going to see the fall leaves and go here and there for entertainment and pleasure. That is fine for good fellowship but I am talking about much more here. I believe the seniors can be an amazing power for good in the church.
I would urge the elders to form a brain trust and allow these seniors to be brought to the table of decisions. They could be a great source of wisdom about the past and what has worked and provide good insights into the church and its future.
When churches integrate all ages of the church into ministry and have them all working together then you have the makings of a true family church. All generations can share their experiences, wisdom, and thoughts to bless everyone.
Again, it has become a powerful cultural force that tends to push our senior citizens aside and they are soon forgotten. It will be hard to swim up stream and make the changes here needed. But, those churches that do, will find the windows of blessings opened wide and the grace of God flowing into the body.
"Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, 2 older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity." (I Timothy 5:1,2).
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
DEMONS
DEMONS
I have been saturating my mind with the Gospel of Mark for the last few weeks. Daily I read Mark and ponder the power of every word. Jesus Christ is the most amazing person ever to walk on this planet Earth.
Demons have always been clouded in some mystery. There are many things we just do not know about demons. There is no room for dogmatism. It is not a matter of heaven or hell. Good people can disagree on this topic and still maintain fellowship.
All should understand and agree that demons are a living reality in the pages of the New Testament. It is rather amazing how that in the ministry of Jesus demons keep crossing His path. Again and again they are presented in contrast to the blessed Lord. Look at Mark 6:7--"Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits." The "impure spirits" is another word for demons.
There are various theories as to who and what were demons. I believe they were angels who had turned in rebellion to God and were working for Satan to carry out his work.
Here are my thoughts. Demons are prolific in the New Testament world because of Jesus Christ. His power and light brought them out and displayed them and He overpowered them in every single situation.
Always, when demons are mentioned they are destructive and bring misery and great harm. Jesus comes on the scene and brings love, peace and healing. Always, the demons must obey the blessed Lord. He has the superior power and they must obey.
Jesus gave such power to deliver people from demons to the Apostles and they in turned moved through the times casting them out and healing people.
No one walked the earth as pure as Jesus Christ. When He comes on the stage of history the demons are brought out and seen fleeing before Him.
There are many mysteries to life. I believe it is very possible that demons are still working on this earth and doing great evil. Because, of our "scientific minds" we refuse to see them and comprehend their reality. However, I do believe that since the Cross and the Resurrection of our Lord that the power of demons has been lessen to some degree. Christians have a level of protection and safety from such evil. However, we can lose that security by allowing evil to enter our being and move us away from God. Those that are outside of Christ in this evil world have no such protection as that seen for Christians. There are some horrific evil things going on in this world and I do not see how such can be fully explained without a consideration of the power of evil in our world and even the reality of demons.
The more any single human surrenders himself to Satan, and the more the masses surrender themselves to Satan, the greater power Satan has, the more darkness enters the souls of men and women and the nations of the earth.
This is why it is so important that people obey the Gospel and come into Christ. There you find forgiveness of all past sins, and there you find the grace of God to sustain you and protect you against all evil. Even if the evil of this world and evil people touches you by harming you, you have the security that Jesus will defend you and protect you. When death comes for the faithful Christian the demons rejoice but the blessed Lord has the Victory as HE takes that faithful child to glory.
Most of us never contemplate the full power of evil in this world. It is too much for most people to get their arms around. But, make no mistake evil is real and it works constantly for the destruction of humanity. Satan and his demons are real and without Jesus Christ and His Angels all of humanity would have long ago been destroyed.
We rejoice in the words of Jesus to the demons, ""Be quiet!" said Jesus sternly. "Come out of him!" Praise God for Jesus our SAVIOR!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
*About The Picture: In the Gospels of the New Testament, Jesus is seen driving out demons at least as often as he is seen healing the sick or performing nature miracles. Always, the demons bow to the Words of The Master!
I have been saturating my mind with the Gospel of Mark for the last few weeks. Daily I read Mark and ponder the power of every word. Jesus Christ is the most amazing person ever to walk on this planet Earth.
Demons have always been clouded in some mystery. There are many things we just do not know about demons. There is no room for dogmatism. It is not a matter of heaven or hell. Good people can disagree on this topic and still maintain fellowship.
All should understand and agree that demons are a living reality in the pages of the New Testament. It is rather amazing how that in the ministry of Jesus demons keep crossing His path. Again and again they are presented in contrast to the blessed Lord. Look at Mark 6:7--"Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits." The "impure spirits" is another word for demons.
There are various theories as to who and what were demons. I believe they were angels who had turned in rebellion to God and were working for Satan to carry out his work.
Here are my thoughts. Demons are prolific in the New Testament world because of Jesus Christ. His power and light brought them out and displayed them and He overpowered them in every single situation.
Always, when demons are mentioned they are destructive and bring misery and great harm. Jesus comes on the scene and brings love, peace and healing. Always, the demons must obey the blessed Lord. He has the superior power and they must obey.
Jesus gave such power to deliver people from demons to the Apostles and they in turned moved through the times casting them out and healing people.
No one walked the earth as pure as Jesus Christ. When He comes on the stage of history the demons are brought out and seen fleeing before Him.
There are many mysteries to life. I believe it is very possible that demons are still working on this earth and doing great evil. Because, of our "scientific minds" we refuse to see them and comprehend their reality. However, I do believe that since the Cross and the Resurrection of our Lord that the power of demons has been lessen to some degree. Christians have a level of protection and safety from such evil. However, we can lose that security by allowing evil to enter our being and move us away from God. Those that are outside of Christ in this evil world have no such protection as that seen for Christians. There are some horrific evil things going on in this world and I do not see how such can be fully explained without a consideration of the power of evil in our world and even the reality of demons.
The more any single human surrenders himself to Satan, and the more the masses surrender themselves to Satan, the greater power Satan has, the more darkness enters the souls of men and women and the nations of the earth.
This is why it is so important that people obey the Gospel and come into Christ. There you find forgiveness of all past sins, and there you find the grace of God to sustain you and protect you against all evil. Even if the evil of this world and evil people touches you by harming you, you have the security that Jesus will defend you and protect you. When death comes for the faithful Christian the demons rejoice but the blessed Lord has the Victory as HE takes that faithful child to glory.
Most of us never contemplate the full power of evil in this world. It is too much for most people to get their arms around. But, make no mistake evil is real and it works constantly for the destruction of humanity. Satan and his demons are real and without Jesus Christ and His Angels all of humanity would have long ago been destroyed.
We rejoice in the words of Jesus to the demons, ""Be quiet!" said Jesus sternly. "Come out of him!" Praise God for Jesus our SAVIOR!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
*About The Picture: In the Gospels of the New Testament, Jesus is seen driving out demons at least as often as he is seen healing the sick or performing nature miracles. Always, the demons bow to the Words of The Master!
CHURCHES OF CHRIST AND TRUTH
CHURCHES OF CHRIST AND TRUTH
I grew up in the churches of Christ. My father has served as an elder in four congregations of churches of Christ over the years. I have preached for nearly 38 years and served as an elder for two congregations. I have had the opportunity to observe many things in churches of Christ over the years. I have seen wonderful things in the church and things that have been rather sickening. Such is life.
Truth is an amazing thing. Some in the church believe that all truth is owned by churches of Christ. I do not believe in such a concept. Truth is of God and has been dispensed by God to all the earth in the pages of the Bible and in nature.
I have never seen a church of Christ that practiced all truth. I have never seen a church that could not improve itself and do better. I have never seen a congregation that owns all the truth of God. The Restoration movement was about searching for truth and always seeking to follow the path of truth. It was never a journey completed but always a journey in progress.
As I mix and mingle with people of various religions I have come to believe that various aspects of truth can be found all over the earth in all forms of religions. Some have a greater appreciation of love and mercy than do those of the church of Christ. Some have a greater sense of emotion and felling in their faith than do we. Some have a greater sense of spirituality and service to God and to others than churches of Christ. We can learn much by our interaction with people of other beliefs.
It is amazing to me to talk to people not of the church of Christ and hear them tell the story of Jesus and tell me how they see the Bible. It is refreshing and enlightening. They are not all wrong about everything and we are not always right about everything.
It is important that in our congregations we welcome fresh faces into our family. Stagnant churches that never add a new member but just bury the dead, tend to say the same things over and over about the Bible and never venture out of the shoe box they have made for themselves.
Truth is a vast Ocean and we have only waded around in the shallow waters safe at shore. We must sail the Ocean blue and search for a City whose builder and maker is God.
I appreciate truth wherever it can be found. I am always for truth. I want to travel with truth wherever it goes no matter what the cost is for such a journey.
There are many people across America that believe in God, believe in Jesus as God's Son and who believe that He died on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. They believe the Bible is the WORD OF GOD and they believe in following Jesus. I do not see them as my enemy. I see them on a journey just as I am on a journey. They can teach me much and I hope, I in turn will teach them something. Whether I agree with a man about his "faith" or not, does not threaten my faith and the confidence I have in Jesus Christ. We need greater dialogue and interaction with all the people of America and we need to try to desperately appeal for unity and submission to our Heavenly Father.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
*Picture: is a ship sailing the Ocean. We are all on a great ship, the ship of life seeking a city, whose builder and maker is God!
I grew up in the churches of Christ. My father has served as an elder in four congregations of churches of Christ over the years. I have preached for nearly 38 years and served as an elder for two congregations. I have had the opportunity to observe many things in churches of Christ over the years. I have seen wonderful things in the church and things that have been rather sickening. Such is life.
Truth is an amazing thing. Some in the church believe that all truth is owned by churches of Christ. I do not believe in such a concept. Truth is of God and has been dispensed by God to all the earth in the pages of the Bible and in nature.
I have never seen a church of Christ that practiced all truth. I have never seen a church that could not improve itself and do better. I have never seen a congregation that owns all the truth of God. The Restoration movement was about searching for truth and always seeking to follow the path of truth. It was never a journey completed but always a journey in progress.
As I mix and mingle with people of various religions I have come to believe that various aspects of truth can be found all over the earth in all forms of religions. Some have a greater appreciation of love and mercy than do those of the church of Christ. Some have a greater sense of emotion and felling in their faith than do we. Some have a greater sense of spirituality and service to God and to others than churches of Christ. We can learn much by our interaction with people of other beliefs.
It is amazing to me to talk to people not of the church of Christ and hear them tell the story of Jesus and tell me how they see the Bible. It is refreshing and enlightening. They are not all wrong about everything and we are not always right about everything.
It is important that in our congregations we welcome fresh faces into our family. Stagnant churches that never add a new member but just bury the dead, tend to say the same things over and over about the Bible and never venture out of the shoe box they have made for themselves.
Truth is a vast Ocean and we have only waded around in the shallow waters safe at shore. We must sail the Ocean blue and search for a City whose builder and maker is God.
I appreciate truth wherever it can be found. I am always for truth. I want to travel with truth wherever it goes no matter what the cost is for such a journey.
There are many people across America that believe in God, believe in Jesus as God's Son and who believe that He died on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. They believe the Bible is the WORD OF GOD and they believe in following Jesus. I do not see them as my enemy. I see them on a journey just as I am on a journey. They can teach me much and I hope, I in turn will teach them something. Whether I agree with a man about his "faith" or not, does not threaten my faith and the confidence I have in Jesus Christ. We need greater dialogue and interaction with all the people of America and we need to try to desperately appeal for unity and submission to our Heavenly Father.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
*Picture: is a ship sailing the Ocean. We are all on a great ship, the ship of life seeking a city, whose builder and maker is God!
THE BIBLE SPEAKS TO THE HUMAN GENOME
THE BIBLE SPEAKS TO THE HUMAN GENOME
Psalm 119:93 Complete Jewish Bible (CJB)
93 I will never forget your precepts,
for with them you have made me alive.
What is a genome?
"A genome is an organism’s complete set of DNA, including all of its genes. Each genome contains all of the information needed to build and maintain that organism. In humans, a copy of the entire genome—more than 3 billion DNA base pairs—is contained in all cells that have a nucleus." (From the U.S. National Library of Medicine).
Genesis 1:26-27 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
26 Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness. They will rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the livestock, all the earth,[a] and the creatures that crawl[b] on the earth.”
Genesis 2:7 New English Translation (NET Bible)
7 The Lord God formed the man from the soil of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.
There is deep in every human being a mysterious connection to a power and being not of this earth. It exists in every human being. It is the deep inner relationship between a human and the Almighty God. In many ways it can never be adequately explained. However, it is there. In every civilization on earth both past and present there exists this calling of God to His human creation. Humans in every civilization of historical record have always sought the Creator. They have looked to worship something greater than themselves. Why? Because, deep in each human is that calling of God. It is a calling both physical and spiritual.
Humans can amass money, power, fame, and glory and yet never feel content and satisfied. Why? Because, humans are deeply spiritual. There is more to humanity than the physical. There is in each human a calling that comes from God. Men and women are never complete in life until they have answered that call.
I believe deep in the human genome is this mysterious code that responds to God. The human form recognizes the voice of God. The human being comes alive to the calling of God.
In the Bible you have the greatest message to ever be found on earth. Men look to the Pyramids of Ancient Egypt to understand this calling but it is not there. Men look to Stonehenge in England for answers, but it is not there. This message from God, found in the Bible speaks to the brain of humans and the brain lights up. This message of the Bible speaks to the emotions of humans and the feelings explode with glory. This message speaks to the very human genome of every human and inner life springs to action. The Bible speaks to the very soul of every human and that soul is energized.
Psalms 119:93 speaks of the very Word of God making one alive! Yes, the Bible connecting with the human genome and soul turns on lights in the human being like no other force on earth. It is a marvelous thing to behold.
When you read the Bible you are reading a book not fully of this earth. You are reading the words first formed in the mind of God and dispatched unto humans to record. These words are the calling of the Creator unto his creation with a message of how to get home. You see you are made in the image of the Almighty God. God never intended for you to be here forever. He is calling you home. Home is with the Creator-our Heavenly Father. Home is the fulfillment of what we were actually created for and in such we find our completion.
You read a book of men and enjoy the moment. You read the Bible and a voice not of this earth speaks to you deep in your human genome and very soul. The message stirs you and moves you and motivates you to greatness. It is an ancient calling going back to the sixth day of creation. God made man in His image and breathed into that human and thus every human the breath of life. God has left us a message in the Bible and it calls us back to Him.
The Bible tells you where you came from, why you are here, and what your destiny can be. God leaves with each human the power of free-will to choose to answer the call. The Bible is a like a phone that is ringing. It is ever ringing, will you answer the call? There the Bible sits in your house. There the phone is ringing, will you answer the call? Some will answer the call and many will not. Sad to say, many can no longer hear the ring for they have been made deaf by the darkness of this world. Some cannot hear the ring because the noise of the world makes it impossible to hear the call of God any longer. Let there be silence! Let there be calm! Now, hear the call of God. Go to the Bible and open its sacred pages and read. Read the Gospel of Mark and read the greatest story ever told. Read of God becoming man and saving you from yourself, your sins and calling you home. Yes, the CROSS is God's way of calling you home. The Bible is now ringing in your home! Do you hear the ringing? Do you hear the call of God?
It amazes me more and more how any human can continue to ignore the call of God. How can any ignore the most powerful message on earth--THE HOLY BIBLE? Do you hear the ring? Do you hear the call of God? One billion years from now you will be so glad you answered the call? Twenty four hours from now, you will be so thrilled you answered the call. When you open the pages of the BIBLE and read, your human genome and soul recognizes the ancient words and comes alive. When you obey those ancient words you will feel satisfied. JESUS who is GOD is calling you home.
James 1:21b: "...humbly welcome the message implanted within you, which is able to save your souls."
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
Psalm 119:93 Complete Jewish Bible (CJB)
93 I will never forget your precepts,
for with them you have made me alive.
What is a genome?
"A genome is an organism’s complete set of DNA, including all of its genes. Each genome contains all of the information needed to build and maintain that organism. In humans, a copy of the entire genome—more than 3 billion DNA base pairs—is contained in all cells that have a nucleus." (From the U.S. National Library of Medicine).
Genesis 1:26-27 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)
26 Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness. They will rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the livestock, all the earth,[a] and the creatures that crawl[b] on the earth.”
Genesis 2:7 New English Translation (NET Bible)
7 The Lord God formed the man from the soil of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.
There is deep in every human being a mysterious connection to a power and being not of this earth. It exists in every human being. It is the deep inner relationship between a human and the Almighty God. In many ways it can never be adequately explained. However, it is there. In every civilization on earth both past and present there exists this calling of God to His human creation. Humans in every civilization of historical record have always sought the Creator. They have looked to worship something greater than themselves. Why? Because, deep in each human is that calling of God. It is a calling both physical and spiritual.
Humans can amass money, power, fame, and glory and yet never feel content and satisfied. Why? Because, humans are deeply spiritual. There is more to humanity than the physical. There is in each human a calling that comes from God. Men and women are never complete in life until they have answered that call.
I believe deep in the human genome is this mysterious code that responds to God. The human form recognizes the voice of God. The human being comes alive to the calling of God.
In the Bible you have the greatest message to ever be found on earth. Men look to the Pyramids of Ancient Egypt to understand this calling but it is not there. Men look to Stonehenge in England for answers, but it is not there. This message from God, found in the Bible speaks to the brain of humans and the brain lights up. This message of the Bible speaks to the emotions of humans and the feelings explode with glory. This message speaks to the very human genome of every human and inner life springs to action. The Bible speaks to the very soul of every human and that soul is energized.
Psalms 119:93 speaks of the very Word of God making one alive! Yes, the Bible connecting with the human genome and soul turns on lights in the human being like no other force on earth. It is a marvelous thing to behold.
When you read the Bible you are reading a book not fully of this earth. You are reading the words first formed in the mind of God and dispatched unto humans to record. These words are the calling of the Creator unto his creation with a message of how to get home. You see you are made in the image of the Almighty God. God never intended for you to be here forever. He is calling you home. Home is with the Creator-our Heavenly Father. Home is the fulfillment of what we were actually created for and in such we find our completion.
You read a book of men and enjoy the moment. You read the Bible and a voice not of this earth speaks to you deep in your human genome and very soul. The message stirs you and moves you and motivates you to greatness. It is an ancient calling going back to the sixth day of creation. God made man in His image and breathed into that human and thus every human the breath of life. God has left us a message in the Bible and it calls us back to Him.
The Bible tells you where you came from, why you are here, and what your destiny can be. God leaves with each human the power of free-will to choose to answer the call. The Bible is a like a phone that is ringing. It is ever ringing, will you answer the call? There the Bible sits in your house. There the phone is ringing, will you answer the call? Some will answer the call and many will not. Sad to say, many can no longer hear the ring for they have been made deaf by the darkness of this world. Some cannot hear the ring because the noise of the world makes it impossible to hear the call of God any longer. Let there be silence! Let there be calm! Now, hear the call of God. Go to the Bible and open its sacred pages and read. Read the Gospel of Mark and read the greatest story ever told. Read of God becoming man and saving you from yourself, your sins and calling you home. Yes, the CROSS is God's way of calling you home. The Bible is now ringing in your home! Do you hear the ringing? Do you hear the call of God?
It amazes me more and more how any human can continue to ignore the call of God. How can any ignore the most powerful message on earth--THE HOLY BIBLE? Do you hear the ring? Do you hear the call of God? One billion years from now you will be so glad you answered the call? Twenty four hours from now, you will be so thrilled you answered the call. When you open the pages of the BIBLE and read, your human genome and soul recognizes the ancient words and comes alive. When you obey those ancient words you will feel satisfied. JESUS who is GOD is calling you home.
James 1:21b: "...humbly welcome the message implanted within you, which is able to save your souls."
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
TIME
TIME
TIME is such a powerful word. If I were to give a list of words to describe the Almighty I would have to put on the list the word, TIME. God is the essence of true time. He has no beginning and no end. That is the true measure of God. He is eternal. We can never quite get our arms around such a concept. For us time is well stated on the grave stones at every cemetery in the world. There is the birth date and there is the death date. There is the beginning and there is the end. It is time.
We are reminded of this limitation of our existence on a minute by minute basis. Around the world nearly 107 people die every minute. One day it will be me and it will be you who make up one of the 107 who die in that minute. That is a sobering thought.
But, back to God. He has no beginning and He has no ending. The Bible tells of what He did in one week and what has been the results of that week. The first two chapters of Genesis tell of His creative work in this physical universe. However, what did God do with all that time before the creation week? What about now? Is God fixated on this physical universe and nothing else? Or, does God have other things He is engaged in that we have no way of knowing nor understanding? Interesting questions. But, we shall never know the depths of the Almighty GOD!
TIME is such an interesting word. It is a word that moves through the universe and into every single cell of the human body. The clock of life is ticking, ever ticking and it is moving us all forward.
When you clear your mind and mediate on the vastness of human history that has gone before, and that is possible for future generations, you come to the conclusion of something mysterious and marvelous that is going on minute by minute. Life is happening and life is of God! We have a purpose for being here for the minutes that are given us. That purpose above all purposes is to glorify God. We are to seek Him, find Him, and embrace Him. When we do that we have found our ancient calling.
Once my heart ceases to beat, my eternal spirit moves on to a place that God has prepared. For me and for all, a moment after death, TIME takes on a new dimension. To be in a world that is not measured by time and its ever changing fortunes will be something glorious. In this time capsule that I am now in, it is impossible to fathom. But, once I have arrived on the other side of time, then I shall see more clearly what now is only a thick fog.
TIME is something that now controls our lives. But, in glory, time loses its power.
Where are you? What are you? What are you doing with your time? Connect yourself with the Almighty and you shall never be a slave of time again!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
Revelation 22:13: "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End."
"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom." (Isa. 40:28).
TIME is such a powerful word. If I were to give a list of words to describe the Almighty I would have to put on the list the word, TIME. God is the essence of true time. He has no beginning and no end. That is the true measure of God. He is eternal. We can never quite get our arms around such a concept. For us time is well stated on the grave stones at every cemetery in the world. There is the birth date and there is the death date. There is the beginning and there is the end. It is time.
We are reminded of this limitation of our existence on a minute by minute basis. Around the world nearly 107 people die every minute. One day it will be me and it will be you who make up one of the 107 who die in that minute. That is a sobering thought.
But, back to God. He has no beginning and He has no ending. The Bible tells of what He did in one week and what has been the results of that week. The first two chapters of Genesis tell of His creative work in this physical universe. However, what did God do with all that time before the creation week? What about now? Is God fixated on this physical universe and nothing else? Or, does God have other things He is engaged in that we have no way of knowing nor understanding? Interesting questions. But, we shall never know the depths of the Almighty GOD!
TIME is such an interesting word. It is a word that moves through the universe and into every single cell of the human body. The clock of life is ticking, ever ticking and it is moving us all forward.
When you clear your mind and mediate on the vastness of human history that has gone before, and that is possible for future generations, you come to the conclusion of something mysterious and marvelous that is going on minute by minute. Life is happening and life is of God! We have a purpose for being here for the minutes that are given us. That purpose above all purposes is to glorify God. We are to seek Him, find Him, and embrace Him. When we do that we have found our ancient calling.
Once my heart ceases to beat, my eternal spirit moves on to a place that God has prepared. For me and for all, a moment after death, TIME takes on a new dimension. To be in a world that is not measured by time and its ever changing fortunes will be something glorious. In this time capsule that I am now in, it is impossible to fathom. But, once I have arrived on the other side of time, then I shall see more clearly what now is only a thick fog.
TIME is something that now controls our lives. But, in glory, time loses its power.
Where are you? What are you? What are you doing with your time? Connect yourself with the Almighty and you shall never be a slave of time again!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
Revelation 22:13: "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End."
"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom." (Isa. 40:28).
WHY JESUS IS SO GREAT (?)
Why Jesus Is So Great (?)
1. He is God incarnate.
2. He is our only hope.
3. He is our Savior.
4. He is our Redeemer!
5. He loves us so much.
6. He gave us a perfect example.
7. He has taught us wondrous truths.
8. He has provided a way through Him for us to find redemption.
9. He has given us a family, (the church).
10. He will come again and take us home to be with Him.
BLESSED BE THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST! BLESSED BE HIS NAME!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
1. He is God incarnate.
2. He is our only hope.
3. He is our Savior.
4. He is our Redeemer!
5. He loves us so much.
6. He gave us a perfect example.
7. He has taught us wondrous truths.
8. He has provided a way through Him for us to find redemption.
9. He has given us a family, (the church).
10. He will come again and take us home to be with Him.
BLESSED BE THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST! BLESSED BE HIS NAME!
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
THE ELDERSHIP (5)
THE ELDERSHIP (5)
The work of elders (also referred to as pastors, bishops and shepherds) is an amazing work. It has to do with the care of the local church of our Lord. What a noble work. I Timothy 3 and Titus 1 tells us of the things we should look for in the qualifications of good men to serve in this mighty work.
Qualifications is an area that causes many debates and controversies among "church folks". One thing for sure there are no supermen. Some are so strict in their interpretations of these qualifications that in the end, no one is qualified. Often this is rooted in one or more men or families in a congregation who wish to run things and thus do not want elders. Therefore, they will always scream, "no one is qualified". Churches must be aware of this power play.
I have observed this in looking at the big picture. Outside of being married and having children all the qualifications are concepts that can be found in other New Testament verses that have to do with ALL CHRISTIANS. All Christians are to be the way it is described in the qualifications of elders. At least, to some level. The main thrust of the qualifications has to do with experience and to some level of wisdom.
The average person in the first century was dead by their mid 50's. I believe most men who would have been found to be elders in the churches in the first century most likely would have been men in their 30's or 40's and possible in the early 50's. We today seem to think that they must be "very old". Although, that is changing in many congregations.
Another item of issue has to do with being the "husband of one wife". A great man has a great wife and she dies and now the poor elder must resign and the church is damaged as a result He is still a man who is the husband of one wife. He never was an adulterer or a man with "many wives". Why do we demand he resign? Another issue has to be with children. Some argue the elder must have two ore more children. This is argued because the man will have greater wisdom in dealing with different kinds of people. If that is true would it not be better to have five children or ten children. What proves too much often proves the ridiculous. A man with one or more children certainly meets the test even if you are taking the passage to be a "concrete passage" in the absolute sense. In addition there are arguments as to whether the children must be all Christians and all faithful. When you take the text of I Timothy and Titus together it seems he is talking of the man/father being the kind of man that has control of his family and had a family of honor and respect and not whether they were Christians or not. Certainly, it is great if they are but that is not a law.
"Apt to teach" is an interesting qualification. This has to be relative. Some are great scholars as elders and others are rather average or below average. Men vary in their abilities as to teaching. One may be adequate and yet not a scholar.
What about a man who has been married and divorced? Well, all would agree if the man had been divorced because his wife was an adulterous then there is no issue. Although, many congregations still refuse to allow such a man to ever be a deacon or elder. Such is making a law that God did not make. Men who are elders are just men and sin like all others. Whatever marriage issues they had in the past were forgiven by the blood of Jesus and through His grace. If we cannot accept that then we have more problems then can be fully stated here. I am a detailed student of history and I cannot believe that the men could be found in these Gentile churches who did not have messy lives and divorces and such. Many marriages were broken up over one becoming a Christian and the spouse remaining a pagan. Christianity was new in the first century and you are not going to have men that meet 21st Century--United States--Puritan ideology. It was a pagan world in the first century. Christians came out of this pagan background. Their past was their past. What was important was their present lives before God and the church.
Another factor is this: there is much that is left up to human judgment and to the local congregation to figure out. The NT is strict enough to save souls but liberal enough to pass through all centuries of time and into all nations of the earth, and WORK for the good of all. However, elders should be men selected by the approval of the congregation and they are accountable to God and the local congregation for their work. Some congregations are allowing elders to serve for three years and then go through a period of evaluation and confirmation as well as adding new men in the eldership. The same is done regarding the deacons. I like this approach for it provides accountability and takes away the "power driven model" often characteristic of elderships these days.
As I have mentioned before, elders should serve as shepherds and be more consultative and build consensus in their work and not be driven by a "corporate board" and "power-driven" approach.
Paul to Timothy and Titus tells us that men who are to be elders are to be men that: 1. Desire the work. 2. He is to be a man above reproach. There is no public sin and shame that is dishonoring him. 3. He has one wife and not two, three, or more. 4. He is temperate or shows a disciplined life. 6. He is given to self-control. 7. He is respectable. 8. His is friendly and filled with hospitality. 8. He is able to teach and explain the gospel. 9. He is a man that alcohol has no hold over. 10. He is gentle in his life and communication. 11. He is not a man who has an excessive love for money and material things. 12. He manages his own household/family well. That is, his house and those that live in such. 13. He must not be a new convert but someone with some experience and maturity. 14. He should be a man with a good public reputation. 15. The elder's wife should be a lady worthy of respect, not gossips, but given to a discipline and self-control life. The wife should be trustworthy.
One must take care in applying these qualifications to men who shall be elders. We have to use subjective reasoning and human wisdom. Good men will have enemies due to the reality of evil in the world. We do not want men who have lived in ivory towers but, men who lived life and experienced the grace of our Lord. These qualifications if looked at on a scale of one to ten would well measure a man's character. However, no man could be found with a perfect ten. We are all works in progress. Each church must decide if the men they will appoint as elders measure to a level that they feel they can have confidence in and serve under. Churches must avoid overly harsh judgments (Matt. 7:1ff). If churches do a review of their elders every three years they can correct issues.
I will discuss more on the work of the eldership and other issues in future articles.. The church today is desperate for great men to be leaders.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
The work of elders (also referred to as pastors, bishops and shepherds) is an amazing work. It has to do with the care of the local church of our Lord. What a noble work. I Timothy 3 and Titus 1 tells us of the things we should look for in the qualifications of good men to serve in this mighty work.
Qualifications is an area that causes many debates and controversies among "church folks". One thing for sure there are no supermen. Some are so strict in their interpretations of these qualifications that in the end, no one is qualified. Often this is rooted in one or more men or families in a congregation who wish to run things and thus do not want elders. Therefore, they will always scream, "no one is qualified". Churches must be aware of this power play.
I have observed this in looking at the big picture. Outside of being married and having children all the qualifications are concepts that can be found in other New Testament verses that have to do with ALL CHRISTIANS. All Christians are to be the way it is described in the qualifications of elders. At least, to some level. The main thrust of the qualifications has to do with experience and to some level of wisdom.
The average person in the first century was dead by their mid 50's. I believe most men who would have been found to be elders in the churches in the first century most likely would have been men in their 30's or 40's and possible in the early 50's. We today seem to think that they must be "very old". Although, that is changing in many congregations.
Another item of issue has to do with being the "husband of one wife". A great man has a great wife and she dies and now the poor elder must resign and the church is damaged as a result He is still a man who is the husband of one wife. He never was an adulterer or a man with "many wives". Why do we demand he resign? Another issue has to be with children. Some argue the elder must have two ore more children. This is argued because the man will have greater wisdom in dealing with different kinds of people. If that is true would it not be better to have five children or ten children. What proves too much often proves the ridiculous. A man with one or more children certainly meets the test even if you are taking the passage to be a "concrete passage" in the absolute sense. In addition there are arguments as to whether the children must be all Christians and all faithful. When you take the text of I Timothy and Titus together it seems he is talking of the man/father being the kind of man that has control of his family and had a family of honor and respect and not whether they were Christians or not. Certainly, it is great if they are but that is not a law.
"Apt to teach" is an interesting qualification. This has to be relative. Some are great scholars as elders and others are rather average or below average. Men vary in their abilities as to teaching. One may be adequate and yet not a scholar.
What about a man who has been married and divorced? Well, all would agree if the man had been divorced because his wife was an adulterous then there is no issue. Although, many congregations still refuse to allow such a man to ever be a deacon or elder. Such is making a law that God did not make. Men who are elders are just men and sin like all others. Whatever marriage issues they had in the past were forgiven by the blood of Jesus and through His grace. If we cannot accept that then we have more problems then can be fully stated here. I am a detailed student of history and I cannot believe that the men could be found in these Gentile churches who did not have messy lives and divorces and such. Many marriages were broken up over one becoming a Christian and the spouse remaining a pagan. Christianity was new in the first century and you are not going to have men that meet 21st Century--United States--Puritan ideology. It was a pagan world in the first century. Christians came out of this pagan background. Their past was their past. What was important was their present lives before God and the church.
Another factor is this: there is much that is left up to human judgment and to the local congregation to figure out. The NT is strict enough to save souls but liberal enough to pass through all centuries of time and into all nations of the earth, and WORK for the good of all. However, elders should be men selected by the approval of the congregation and they are accountable to God and the local congregation for their work. Some congregations are allowing elders to serve for three years and then go through a period of evaluation and confirmation as well as adding new men in the eldership. The same is done regarding the deacons. I like this approach for it provides accountability and takes away the "power driven model" often characteristic of elderships these days.
As I have mentioned before, elders should serve as shepherds and be more consultative and build consensus in their work and not be driven by a "corporate board" and "power-driven" approach.
Paul to Timothy and Titus tells us that men who are to be elders are to be men that: 1. Desire the work. 2. He is to be a man above reproach. There is no public sin and shame that is dishonoring him. 3. He has one wife and not two, three, or more. 4. He is temperate or shows a disciplined life. 6. He is given to self-control. 7. He is respectable. 8. His is friendly and filled with hospitality. 8. He is able to teach and explain the gospel. 9. He is a man that alcohol has no hold over. 10. He is gentle in his life and communication. 11. He is not a man who has an excessive love for money and material things. 12. He manages his own household/family well. That is, his house and those that live in such. 13. He must not be a new convert but someone with some experience and maturity. 14. He should be a man with a good public reputation. 15. The elder's wife should be a lady worthy of respect, not gossips, but given to a discipline and self-control life. The wife should be trustworthy.
One must take care in applying these qualifications to men who shall be elders. We have to use subjective reasoning and human wisdom. Good men will have enemies due to the reality of evil in the world. We do not want men who have lived in ivory towers but, men who lived life and experienced the grace of our Lord. These qualifications if looked at on a scale of one to ten would well measure a man's character. However, no man could be found with a perfect ten. We are all works in progress. Each church must decide if the men they will appoint as elders measure to a level that they feel they can have confidence in and serve under. Churches must avoid overly harsh judgments (Matt. 7:1ff). If churches do a review of their elders every three years they can correct issues.
I will discuss more on the work of the eldership and other issues in future articles.. The church today is desperate for great men to be leaders.
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
THE IMMIGRANTS AMONG US...
THE IMMIGRANTS AMONG US...
I know what I am saying here might come over in a way that will put me in a position of being attacked but here goes. The children and others flooding our boarders is on the news daily. Many are outraged and very angry. I see some very ugly and terrible posts and statements being made by Americans all over regarding these children and adults flooding our boarders. I have to admit at first I did not understand at all what was going on. Now, finally I am understanding it better.
I think I should remind everyone that we are all immigrants. My family came to America in the 18th century looking for a better life. They left England and sailed the Atlantic on a very dangerous voyage.
I think we should think of these children. Many of these and their families have fled death and terrible lives. They dream of America. They dream of freedom and a better life. Most of them would make wonderful citizens.
People across the nation need to calm down and think before speaking and screaming hate. I realize there is great concern about our President and his policies and leadership or lack of leadership. I realize the politics of this issue. I realize the fears people have of terrorists and disease and such. I feel like most Americans we should have safe and secure borders and a clear immigration policy that makes sense and that is enforced.
Having said all the above I now turn to the human side. I feel they should show the faces of those coming here and all the little children. We have been a nation of compassion and mercy for generations and we must continue to do so. Listen to the Word of God about immigrants entering the land of Israel in the OT era.
“When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God." (Lev. 19:33,34).
"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, " (Matt. 12:35).
“You shall not wrong a sojourner or oppress him, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt. " (Exod. 22:21).
“Then I will draw near to you for judgment. I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, against the adulterers, against those who swear falsely, against those who oppress the hired worker in his wages, the widow and the fatherless, against those who thrust aside the sojourner, and do not fear me, says the Lord of hosts." (Mal. 3:5).
"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me," (Matt. 25:35).
We must as Christians pause and reflect on the kind of heart we should have toward people. I pray for our nation and leadership. I pray for these children and their families. I am sure that each one has a story that would touch my heart so deeply.
I wish the church nationwide was there at the sites with food and clothing and love. Maybe some are. I have not heard. My Lord was so full of love and mercy. I think if He were in America now He would be there.
Let us all pause and reflect on our words. Be sure they are not filled with hate and malice. I feel there have been times I have said things about all this that I now regret and I pray God to forgive me.
Living our lives as Christians in America should not be about our pleasures, comforts and the mad race for more and more money. But, it should be about obeying God, serving God, serving our fellowman, helping the helpless in our land, and trying to change lives for better.
I remember Matthew 25:31-46. These are things that Jesus is looking at in all our lives. How do we measure up?
*If life was bad for you and your family and your children were being shot dead in the streets, would your love motivate you to send your children to America for a better life? Oh God, bless the children. I pray for answers! We have plenty of food. We daily waste so much food in America, enough to feed millions and millions of hungry poor people. God is watching America.
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy." (Prov. 31:8,9).
"A righteous man knows the rights of the poor;
a wicked man does not understand such knowledge." (Prov. 29::7).
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
WORDS ON THE STATUE OF LIBERTY
Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she
With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
I know what I am saying here might come over in a way that will put me in a position of being attacked but here goes. The children and others flooding our boarders is on the news daily. Many are outraged and very angry. I see some very ugly and terrible posts and statements being made by Americans all over regarding these children and adults flooding our boarders. I have to admit at first I did not understand at all what was going on. Now, finally I am understanding it better.
I think I should remind everyone that we are all immigrants. My family came to America in the 18th century looking for a better life. They left England and sailed the Atlantic on a very dangerous voyage.
I think we should think of these children. Many of these and their families have fled death and terrible lives. They dream of America. They dream of freedom and a better life. Most of them would make wonderful citizens.
People across the nation need to calm down and think before speaking and screaming hate. I realize there is great concern about our President and his policies and leadership or lack of leadership. I realize the politics of this issue. I realize the fears people have of terrorists and disease and such. I feel like most Americans we should have safe and secure borders and a clear immigration policy that makes sense and that is enforced.
Having said all the above I now turn to the human side. I feel they should show the faces of those coming here and all the little children. We have been a nation of compassion and mercy for generations and we must continue to do so. Listen to the Word of God about immigrants entering the land of Israel in the OT era.
“When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God." (Lev. 19:33,34).
"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, " (Matt. 12:35).
“You shall not wrong a sojourner or oppress him, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt. " (Exod. 22:21).
“Then I will draw near to you for judgment. I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, against the adulterers, against those who swear falsely, against those who oppress the hired worker in his wages, the widow and the fatherless, against those who thrust aside the sojourner, and do not fear me, says the Lord of hosts." (Mal. 3:5).
"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me," (Matt. 25:35).
We must as Christians pause and reflect on the kind of heart we should have toward people. I pray for our nation and leadership. I pray for these children and their families. I am sure that each one has a story that would touch my heart so deeply.
I wish the church nationwide was there at the sites with food and clothing and love. Maybe some are. I have not heard. My Lord was so full of love and mercy. I think if He were in America now He would be there.
Let us all pause and reflect on our words. Be sure they are not filled with hate and malice. I feel there have been times I have said things about all this that I now regret and I pray God to forgive me.
Living our lives as Christians in America should not be about our pleasures, comforts and the mad race for more and more money. But, it should be about obeying God, serving God, serving our fellowman, helping the helpless in our land, and trying to change lives for better.
I remember Matthew 25:31-46. These are things that Jesus is looking at in all our lives. How do we measure up?
*If life was bad for you and your family and your children were being shot dead in the streets, would your love motivate you to send your children to America for a better life? Oh God, bless the children. I pray for answers! We have plenty of food. We daily waste so much food in America, enough to feed millions and millions of hungry poor people. God is watching America.
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy." (Prov. 31:8,9).
"A righteous man knows the rights of the poor;
a wicked man does not understand such knowledge." (Prov. 29::7).
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
WORDS ON THE STATUE OF LIBERTY
Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she
With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
Thursday, July 3, 2014
TO REALLY SEE...
In the physical world it is so easy to miss seeing things. You can drive down the highway and look here and there and still miss so many things right there before you. You can go to the top of a mountain and look all over and still miss seeing so much. I have flown many times and looked out the window of the plane and still I missed so much for I was unable to see everything. You can go to a big football game and there see thousands and thousands of people and look out over the crowd and miss a lot. Someone sitting right by you might point out to you things you have missed. I have gone to great art galleries in our country and stared for a long time at masterpiece paintings. Another person came up and in just a moment pointed out something that I had missed. Such is life!
Think about this. If we miss so much in this physical world then think how much we are missing in the spiritual world. I believe there are spiritual forces constantly at work but, for most of humanity they never see such or realize these glorious forces at work. They are everywhere and yet we do not see. Jesus said of people in HIs day, "Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don't you remember?" (Mark 8:18).
We fail to see because we do not look. We fail to see because of prejudice and hard hearts. We fail to see for we have closed our minds to anything that does not fit our preconceived concepts of reality.
Let us open our hearts and minds to the world we live in and see the glorious creation of God. Let us open our eyes to see the wonderful working of God all around us. Let us open our eyes and ears to the message of the Cross that is so rich and powerful.
God is everywhere around us! Do we see?
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
Think about this. If we miss so much in this physical world then think how much we are missing in the spiritual world. I believe there are spiritual forces constantly at work but, for most of humanity they never see such or realize these glorious forces at work. They are everywhere and yet we do not see. Jesus said of people in HIs day, "Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don't you remember?" (Mark 8:18).
We fail to see because we do not look. We fail to see because of prejudice and hard hearts. We fail to see for we have closed our minds to anything that does not fit our preconceived concepts of reality.
Let us open our hearts and minds to the world we live in and see the glorious creation of God. Let us open our eyes to see the wonderful working of God all around us. Let us open our eyes and ears to the message of the Cross that is so rich and powerful.
God is everywhere around us! Do we see?
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
AMERICAN CULTURE
American Culture:
Whether we like it or not or whether we agree or not, culture is constantly evolving. It is an entirely different culture than 1961 when I started first grade at Nettleton Elementary in Jonesboro. It is so very different.
Culture is always changing and developing. Business has to take this into account and adjust and modify and change or they will die. The founder of Quaker Oaks wanted to keep selling oats in bulk out of big barrels in general stores. A new generation wanted to prepackage the oats. A new generation won the argument. Educational institutions have to consider the changes and make modifications. In 1961 there was segregation in the schools. Such is no longer true. Thus, schools change and modify. Government has to move with the changes. Politicians cannot talk the way they did in 1961 and get elected. The very make up of our political system is so different. Medicine has changed a lot since 1961. I do not want my doctor to go by the knowledge of 1961. I want him to be educated and use the tools at his disposal for 2014. There were no personal computers, cell phones, internet or cable TV in 1961. Today, we all use these tools on a regular basis. Life is so different today and one thing for sure is this: in the year 2100 life in America will be so different than it is now. Life is a mighty river that moves onward and no man can change that. What will be God only knows. I trust the Lord.
The first century world is so foreign to our age and time here in the United States of America. Their culture might as well be another planet and our world to them would seem like a fairy tale or science fiction. We cannot go back to their time and they cannot come forward to our world. We cannot restore the church of the first century and nor should we try. The church is made up of humans and not a time or culture. As humans we are unique today, just as those early saints were in the first century, in the world in which they lived. The church today is nothing like what they were in the first century. That might shock some and some may not agree. But, I urge study and reflection of the first century world and the church of that age and I think if you do your homework you will see that we are nothing like them in the practical aspects of daily life and the work and worship of the church. Most today cannot imagine life in the church without church buildings, songs books, pews, pulpits, ministry staff, technology, transportation, the English language, the King James Version, the New International Version, and the 5 minute Lord's Supper on Sunday with processed unleavened bread and Welches grape juice. However, I assure you all of this was foreign to the first century world.
There are concepts that existed in the first century and those same concepts or truths are alive today. God exists, the Bible is the Word of God, Jesus is the Son of God and Savior of the world, we are saved by the grace of God through the atonement of Jesus Christ and His death on Calvary. Our acceptance of that atonement is the new birth as taught in John 3:1ff. We then as God's children seek to live a spiritual life, ever growing. We seek to live a moral life. We seek to let our light so shine before men that they may see our good life and give glory to God (Matt. 5:13,14). We seek to be servants and relieve the suffering of this world (Matt. 25:31ff). We seek then to go forth and proclaim the good news of salvation to all the world (Lk. 4:43). We as Christians shall never get it all right. We shall never know all the Bible and we shall never live a spiritual or morally perfect life. That is fact. We walk in grace and are saved by grace (Eph. 2:8-10).
The above thoughts is why it is so ridiculous for people in the church to be fussing and fighting over so many silly things. The root of 90 percent of all the infighting in the church is found in jealousy, envy, bitterness, hatred, ego, ignorance, and sometimes mental illness. Churches bring shame on themselves and all the body by such absorbed activities. I assure those that are so engulfed in their silly arguments and traditions, that such will fade into dust, be soon forgotten and die along with all those who propagate such nonsense.
Let us follow the Bible. Let us really follow the Bible. Let us walk in the Spirit and live lives of love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. These are sacred truths that were true in the first century and that shall be true until the end of time.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." (Gal. 5:22-23).
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
Whether we like it or not or whether we agree or not, culture is constantly evolving. It is an entirely different culture than 1961 when I started first grade at Nettleton Elementary in Jonesboro. It is so very different.
Culture is always changing and developing. Business has to take this into account and adjust and modify and change or they will die. The founder of Quaker Oaks wanted to keep selling oats in bulk out of big barrels in general stores. A new generation wanted to prepackage the oats. A new generation won the argument. Educational institutions have to consider the changes and make modifications. In 1961 there was segregation in the schools. Such is no longer true. Thus, schools change and modify. Government has to move with the changes. Politicians cannot talk the way they did in 1961 and get elected. The very make up of our political system is so different. Medicine has changed a lot since 1961. I do not want my doctor to go by the knowledge of 1961. I want him to be educated and use the tools at his disposal for 2014. There were no personal computers, cell phones, internet or cable TV in 1961. Today, we all use these tools on a regular basis. Life is so different today and one thing for sure is this: in the year 2100 life in America will be so different than it is now. Life is a mighty river that moves onward and no man can change that. What will be God only knows. I trust the Lord.
The first century world is so foreign to our age and time here in the United States of America. Their culture might as well be another planet and our world to them would seem like a fairy tale or science fiction. We cannot go back to their time and they cannot come forward to our world. We cannot restore the church of the first century and nor should we try. The church is made up of humans and not a time or culture. As humans we are unique today, just as those early saints were in the first century, in the world in which they lived. The church today is nothing like what they were in the first century. That might shock some and some may not agree. But, I urge study and reflection of the first century world and the church of that age and I think if you do your homework you will see that we are nothing like them in the practical aspects of daily life and the work and worship of the church. Most today cannot imagine life in the church without church buildings, songs books, pews, pulpits, ministry staff, technology, transportation, the English language, the King James Version, the New International Version, and the 5 minute Lord's Supper on Sunday with processed unleavened bread and Welches grape juice. However, I assure you all of this was foreign to the first century world.
There are concepts that existed in the first century and those same concepts or truths are alive today. God exists, the Bible is the Word of God, Jesus is the Son of God and Savior of the world, we are saved by the grace of God through the atonement of Jesus Christ and His death on Calvary. Our acceptance of that atonement is the new birth as taught in John 3:1ff. We then as God's children seek to live a spiritual life, ever growing. We seek to live a moral life. We seek to let our light so shine before men that they may see our good life and give glory to God (Matt. 5:13,14). We seek to be servants and relieve the suffering of this world (Matt. 25:31ff). We seek then to go forth and proclaim the good news of salvation to all the world (Lk. 4:43). We as Christians shall never get it all right. We shall never know all the Bible and we shall never live a spiritual or morally perfect life. That is fact. We walk in grace and are saved by grace (Eph. 2:8-10).
The above thoughts is why it is so ridiculous for people in the church to be fussing and fighting over so many silly things. The root of 90 percent of all the infighting in the church is found in jealousy, envy, bitterness, hatred, ego, ignorance, and sometimes mental illness. Churches bring shame on themselves and all the body by such absorbed activities. I assure those that are so engulfed in their silly arguments and traditions, that such will fade into dust, be soon forgotten and die along with all those who propagate such nonsense.
Let us follow the Bible. Let us really follow the Bible. Let us walk in the Spirit and live lives of love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. These are sacred truths that were true in the first century and that shall be true until the end of time.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." (Gal. 5:22-23).
*Allen Ashlock, 2014
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