Are We Staying for Class? (May 20, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
The question: “Are we staying for class?” is a very troubling one for me. Yet, this question is asked every Sunday by children and even by adults to their spouses in churches across America, and definitely here at home as evidenced by the number of people who skip class. If you’re from somewhere other than Fort Gibson where Bible class follows worship, the question might be, “Are we going to class?”
The troubling part is not only that the questioner doesn’t like going to Bible class, or maybe doesn’t like his or her teacher; it’s that going to Bible class has been reduced to an option in way too many families. So, the child or whoever... goes ahead and asks the question as if they are not quite sure what the answer will be.
Folks, this is one question that should never be asked; and if it is, the answer needs to be stated in such a way that there is no doubt of our commitment; that gaining a closer relationship with Jesus is recognized by the questioner as being our top priority. (read Matt. 5:6)
Let’s put it this way: If we knew without a doubt that Jesus Himself was waiting at Bible class to tell us something that could have an impact on our salvation, I really doubt if we could find a structure big enough to hold everyone who wanted to hear this message.
So, if we all agree that Jesus’ words which God backs, will judge us in the last day (John 5:22, John 12:48), why are we not interested enough to take part in Bible class, not just “attend”, but take part? Is there anything more important than keeping up with our salvation and the gospel story? “Even angels long to look into these things.” (1 Pet. 1:10-12) Shouldn’t we?
Welcome to my bulletin article site. What I do is minister to young Christians, their families, their friends, and others in the Fort Gibson, OK area. So check-in every now and then, and I'll try to have an encouraging word for you.
Monday, May 17, 2004
Will It Float? (May 13, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
There is a novelty television segment called “Will It Float?” It takes place on a late night talk show. The idea is to drop something into this large tank of water to see whether it will rise to the surface. It could be a frozen ham, a bag of road salt, a fruit cake... you get the idea. The anticipation builds, the item is dropped-in, and the surprise outcome is revealed.
This is the way I used to think of my life spiritually. When the preacher would ask, “Do you know without a doubt whether you are saved?” I would always think to myself, “I sure hope I am; but I’m not 100-percent sure.” As Christians, there is no reason to live life this way... not knowing for sure whether you’re sinking into condemnation, or floating to a higher spiritual level each day.
2 Peter 1:3 says, “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.”
Peter goes on to say that by taking on the nature of God (and he tells how in vs. 5-7), we can escape worldly corruption. In verses 10-11, Peter says that by doing these things, we can make our entrance into heaven a sure thing. But remember, it all starts with knowledge, obedience, and our willingness to accept and respect God’s grace and authority.
There’s no reason to doubt your salvation as long as you are walking with God. 1 John 1:7 says, “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” Stay on the path. God will never let you sink (reference: 1 Cor. 10:13).
by Barrett Vanlandingham
There is a novelty television segment called “Will It Float?” It takes place on a late night talk show. The idea is to drop something into this large tank of water to see whether it will rise to the surface. It could be a frozen ham, a bag of road salt, a fruit cake... you get the idea. The anticipation builds, the item is dropped-in, and the surprise outcome is revealed.
This is the way I used to think of my life spiritually. When the preacher would ask, “Do you know without a doubt whether you are saved?” I would always think to myself, “I sure hope I am; but I’m not 100-percent sure.” As Christians, there is no reason to live life this way... not knowing for sure whether you’re sinking into condemnation, or floating to a higher spiritual level each day.
2 Peter 1:3 says, “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.”
Peter goes on to say that by taking on the nature of God (and he tells how in vs. 5-7), we can escape worldly corruption. In verses 10-11, Peter says that by doing these things, we can make our entrance into heaven a sure thing. But remember, it all starts with knowledge, obedience, and our willingness to accept and respect God’s grace and authority.
There’s no reason to doubt your salvation as long as you are walking with God. 1 John 1:7 says, “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” Stay on the path. God will never let you sink (reference: 1 Cor. 10:13).
Fishing Anyone? (April 22, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
I went catfishing last weekend and made a very grim discovery: Sometimes you just can’t get the hook out of the fishes mouth without the fish dying; and that’s a problem for me because I just enjoy catching fish and throwing’em back, not cleaning and eating’em.
In terms of Christian living, my little story it illustrates to me how, too often, we pretend to be soul winners for Jesus; but when we actually see potential in someone, we either back off because we know they will require some work that we don’t have time for, or we back off because we’re not quite for sure what to do with them after we’ve gotten them on the hook. The answer is... REEL THEM IN!!! Remember, the fishing trip doesn’t last forever; and whatever fish are still left in the water are just like the people who were left in the water in the days of Noah.
What we must do as “fishers of men” is to bait our hooks with the love of Jesus Christ. The difference between fishing for catfish,and fishing for souls is that once you get’em hooked, you gotta keep’em hooked until they die to the ways of the world. That’s why it is so important for Christians to continually encourage one another, while not being afraid to point out when a brother is swimming up a dangerous stream.
If we actually love one another as scripture commands, we need to prompt each other to open up and say aahhh on a regular basis to make sure the hook of Christianity is still firmly attached. Sometimes the swift currents of life can make our hook and lifeline to heaven, feel more like a deadline with a sinker destined for hell.
May we all swim in God’s narrow stream while staying hooked on the sweetest bait ever known to mankind.
by Barrett Vanlandingham
I went catfishing last weekend and made a very grim discovery: Sometimes you just can’t get the hook out of the fishes mouth without the fish dying; and that’s a problem for me because I just enjoy catching fish and throwing’em back, not cleaning and eating’em.
In terms of Christian living, my little story it illustrates to me how, too often, we pretend to be soul winners for Jesus; but when we actually see potential in someone, we either back off because we know they will require some work that we don’t have time for, or we back off because we’re not quite for sure what to do with them after we’ve gotten them on the hook. The answer is... REEL THEM IN!!! Remember, the fishing trip doesn’t last forever; and whatever fish are still left in the water are just like the people who were left in the water in the days of Noah.
What we must do as “fishers of men” is to bait our hooks with the love of Jesus Christ. The difference between fishing for catfish,and fishing for souls is that once you get’em hooked, you gotta keep’em hooked until they die to the ways of the world. That’s why it is so important for Christians to continually encourage one another, while not being afraid to point out when a brother is swimming up a dangerous stream.
If we actually love one another as scripture commands, we need to prompt each other to open up and say aahhh on a regular basis to make sure the hook of Christianity is still firmly attached. Sometimes the swift currents of life can make our hook and lifeline to heaven, feel more like a deadline with a sinker destined for hell.
May we all swim in God’s narrow stream while staying hooked on the sweetest bait ever known to mankind.
What Does the Bible Say? (April 15)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
This time of year, young people are suffering from spring fever. This means we as parents are already being hit with tons of seasonal questions that generally begin with “Can I...”, “Why can’t I...” or “Why am I the only one who doesn’t get to...” If your child doesn’t ask these questions, it’s either because they’re spoiled and get to do whatever they want, or you’ve trained them to use God’s Word as their guide. But when they do ask these questions, it’s important for us as parents to know where to find answers.
Scripture reminds us there’s nothing new under the sun. This is good because the Bible provides answers for all of those “hard to answer” questions if we will allow God’s Word to be the final authority. Too often, we allow culture to dictate our “final answer” to our children. Sometimes, we do this because we want our kids to fit-in or be accepted by the world. Other times, it may be that we have simply forgotten that as Christians, we are expected to be different from the world.
Culture may have changed, but God’s standards have not. The path to destruction is still wide and crowded; the road to salvation is still narrow and lonely; and Christians are still going to feel “left out” many times because our citizenship is in heaven, not here.
Questions involving friends, alcohol, music, teen parties, relationships, dances, language, lust, and decency regarding swimsuits or other clothing are all topics that are addressed in God’s Word. Fortunately, issues involved in many of these topics quickly fade away when we make pleasing God, and not ourselves, the priority in our lives. Trust God to guide... He’s our only hope.
by Barrett Vanlandingham
This time of year, young people are suffering from spring fever. This means we as parents are already being hit with tons of seasonal questions that generally begin with “Can I...”, “Why can’t I...” or “Why am I the only one who doesn’t get to...” If your child doesn’t ask these questions, it’s either because they’re spoiled and get to do whatever they want, or you’ve trained them to use God’s Word as their guide. But when they do ask these questions, it’s important for us as parents to know where to find answers.
Scripture reminds us there’s nothing new under the sun. This is good because the Bible provides answers for all of those “hard to answer” questions if we will allow God’s Word to be the final authority. Too often, we allow culture to dictate our “final answer” to our children. Sometimes, we do this because we want our kids to fit-in or be accepted by the world. Other times, it may be that we have simply forgotten that as Christians, we are expected to be different from the world.
Culture may have changed, but God’s standards have not. The path to destruction is still wide and crowded; the road to salvation is still narrow and lonely; and Christians are still going to feel “left out” many times because our citizenship is in heaven, not here.
Questions involving friends, alcohol, music, teen parties, relationships, dances, language, lust, and decency regarding swimsuits or other clothing are all topics that are addressed in God’s Word. Fortunately, issues involved in many of these topics quickly fade away when we make pleasing God, and not ourselves, the priority in our lives. Trust God to guide... He’s our only hope.
Spiderman to the Rescue (May 6, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
My son, Britton, turned six years old this past week; and his birthday party, which was held in our garage, was fit for a… spider… or, at least… a Spiderman. Thanks to Brenda Dortch’s great work, we had a Spiderman birthday cake. There was also a Spiderman helicopter as the centerpiece, and lots of decorative spider webs everywhere thanks to Lisa’s craftiness.
In Hebrews 12:1-2 the apostle Paul tells us to throw off sin and other things that get us all tangled up and unable to run an effective spiritual race with our eyes fixed on Jesus. Sometimes, we try to be Spiderman and simply climb through and around all those spiritual webs that Satan uses to entangle us. It works well for Spiderman, but he’s a cartoon character; what scripture advises us to do is to simply throw them off.
For us, this means to clean house spiritually. We’ve got to stop ignoring those spiritual webs that entangle us, and start sweeping them out of every corner of our lives. There are the big ones (sin) that entangle us; and then there’s the “everything” else that hinders us.
In my life, those “everythings” are things that aren’t necessarily sin, but still slow me down, or maybe make it difficult for me to be an effective teacher, parent, husband, or Christian example. If you and I were lining up to run a foot race, and there was a giant web across my lane, I would definitely have it removed so I could run the race with no distractions. What webs of sin and “other” things do you need to sweep out of your life? Is it a spirit of disunity? Is it anger? Is it sins of the mouth or heart? May God bless us all this week as we identify webs, sweep them away, and fill our lives with Christ’s love.
by Barrett Vanlandingham
My son, Britton, turned six years old this past week; and his birthday party, which was held in our garage, was fit for a… spider… or, at least… a Spiderman. Thanks to Brenda Dortch’s great work, we had a Spiderman birthday cake. There was also a Spiderman helicopter as the centerpiece, and lots of decorative spider webs everywhere thanks to Lisa’s craftiness.
In Hebrews 12:1-2 the apostle Paul tells us to throw off sin and other things that get us all tangled up and unable to run an effective spiritual race with our eyes fixed on Jesus. Sometimes, we try to be Spiderman and simply climb through and around all those spiritual webs that Satan uses to entangle us. It works well for Spiderman, but he’s a cartoon character; what scripture advises us to do is to simply throw them off.
For us, this means to clean house spiritually. We’ve got to stop ignoring those spiritual webs that entangle us, and start sweeping them out of every corner of our lives. There are the big ones (sin) that entangle us; and then there’s the “everything” else that hinders us.
In my life, those “everythings” are things that aren’t necessarily sin, but still slow me down, or maybe make it difficult for me to be an effective teacher, parent, husband, or Christian example. If you and I were lining up to run a foot race, and there was a giant web across my lane, I would definitely have it removed so I could run the race with no distractions. What webs of sin and “other” things do you need to sweep out of your life? Is it a spirit of disunity? Is it anger? Is it sins of the mouth or heart? May God bless us all this week as we identify webs, sweep them away, and fill our lives with Christ’s love.
Monday, April 12, 2004
Is It a Chore to God to Church? (April 8, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
I recently heard someone say, “It’s getting to be a chore to go to church.” This statement was made by someone who attends another congregation. Nevertheless, it’s troubling enough to warrant some attention here among our church family. The context of the statement was that this person had simply had it up to here with mean-spirited, negative, and hateful “church people,” and felt it becoming more and more difficult to face them 3 and 4 times a week during times that should be devoted to worshiping God and serving others. But the only thing these people wanted to do was to use the various meeting times as a time to tear down what Jesus built... the church. What a sad way of life to be caught in on judgment day. Jesus suffered and died for the church, not us. Our time should be spent enjoying the victory, and bringing others to Him.
The picture painted in the New Testament of a Christian’s attitude is vivid. Things not included in this picture are things like cruelty, divisiveness, quarrelsome, complaining, arguing, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander. These have no place in the heart of someone who wants a home in heaven. Philippians 4:5 says, “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” In Paul’s letter to the church in Corinth in chapter 16, verses 17 and following, he speaks of some individuals who are good to be associated with because of their proper attitude: “...they have supplied what was lacking from you.” “...refreshed my spirit...”, “greet you warmly in the Lord...”, “Greet another with a holy kiss.” Here’s to a postive attitude! (references: Rom 12:14, Phil 2:5-4, 2 Tim 2:24, 1 Pet 2:1)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
I recently heard someone say, “It’s getting to be a chore to go to church.” This statement was made by someone who attends another congregation. Nevertheless, it’s troubling enough to warrant some attention here among our church family. The context of the statement was that this person had simply had it up to here with mean-spirited, negative, and hateful “church people,” and felt it becoming more and more difficult to face them 3 and 4 times a week during times that should be devoted to worshiping God and serving others. But the only thing these people wanted to do was to use the various meeting times as a time to tear down what Jesus built... the church. What a sad way of life to be caught in on judgment day. Jesus suffered and died for the church, not us. Our time should be spent enjoying the victory, and bringing others to Him.
The picture painted in the New Testament of a Christian’s attitude is vivid. Things not included in this picture are things like cruelty, divisiveness, quarrelsome, complaining, arguing, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander. These have no place in the heart of someone who wants a home in heaven. Philippians 4:5 says, “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” In Paul’s letter to the church in Corinth in chapter 16, verses 17 and following, he speaks of some individuals who are good to be associated with because of their proper attitude: “...they have supplied what was lacking from you.” “...refreshed my spirit...”, “greet you warmly in the Lord...”, “Greet another with a holy kiss.” Here’s to a postive attitude! (references: Rom 12:14, Phil 2:5-4, 2 Tim 2:24, 1 Pet 2:1)
Hungry, Filled, and Overflowing (April 1, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
God truly blessed our LTC Preview Night this past Sunday. Leadership Training for Christ has become a way of life for the majority of our young people, their parents, and the LTC coaches. It is so inspiring to see our youth involved in demonstrating this year’s theme “Stand Firm” in so many creative ways, especially since Jesus himself was so creative in teaching lessons.
Matthew 5:6 says, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
It is encouraging to see our young people hungering and thirsting for righteousness. Sunday night, their blessing was obvious, they were filled; and because of them, those of us who witnessed the youth-led worship and afterwards the chorus, puppets, drama, signing, displays, and Bible bowl demonstration were also spiritually filled if we were hungering and thirsting for righteousness.
I can’t help but make the connection to Matthew 18:3 where Jesus said, “...I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
I get the idea Jesus means what He says when He uses words like truth and never. Jesus never lies, and never is a very long time. 2 Peter 3:8 tells us that to the Lord “...a thousand years is like a day.” So to me, the word never means our chances of entering heaven are ZERO unless we conform to this truth.
We must all let our attitudes reflect the example of our loving Savior. This means adjusting our life so we can be filled to overflowing, not unwilling to share with all people the joy of being a child of God.
(related passages: 2Cor. 4:15; 1Thes. 3:12; Gal. 6:7-10)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
God truly blessed our LTC Preview Night this past Sunday. Leadership Training for Christ has become a way of life for the majority of our young people, their parents, and the LTC coaches. It is so inspiring to see our youth involved in demonstrating this year’s theme “Stand Firm” in so many creative ways, especially since Jesus himself was so creative in teaching lessons.
Matthew 5:6 says, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
It is encouraging to see our young people hungering and thirsting for righteousness. Sunday night, their blessing was obvious, they were filled; and because of them, those of us who witnessed the youth-led worship and afterwards the chorus, puppets, drama, signing, displays, and Bible bowl demonstration were also spiritually filled if we were hungering and thirsting for righteousness.
I can’t help but make the connection to Matthew 18:3 where Jesus said, “...I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
I get the idea Jesus means what He says when He uses words like truth and never. Jesus never lies, and never is a very long time. 2 Peter 3:8 tells us that to the Lord “...a thousand years is like a day.” So to me, the word never means our chances of entering heaven are ZERO unless we conform to this truth.
We must all let our attitudes reflect the example of our loving Savior. This means adjusting our life so we can be filled to overflowing, not unwilling to share with all people the joy of being a child of God.
(related passages: 2Cor. 4:15; 1Thes. 3:12; Gal. 6:7-10)
Is Your Ax Sharp? (March 25, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
If the time comes that someone asks you to chop down a forest with an ax, most of us would take the time to sharpen our blade first because a dull ax would lead to a lot of frustration; and, if you want to see clearly while driving in a rainstorm, it pays to install a new set of wipers now and then when you get your car serviced; and, if you want to rest safely under a good shade tree, it would be nice to know that its roots are well-watered and extend deep into the soil. I know, you get the picture.
Spiritually speaking, each of us has a responsibility to be prepared and make sure we continue to grow and develop a deeper understanding of God’s Word. After all, as Christians, 1 Peter 3:15 says that we are to “...Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have...”
In 2 Timothy 4:2, Paul tells Timothy to 2Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season...” This fits perfectly with 2:15 in regard to “correctly handling” or “rightly dividing the Word of Truth.” It’s so important for us to keep our minds spiritually sharp so we don’t begin to put up with unsound doctrine (4:3).
As Christians, there will be times when those we are closest to have questions about God’s Word. It’s up to you and me to make sure we’ve done all we can to know where to find the answer, and then to know how to explain the passage if it’s not completely clear. There are some passages we may never fully understand. But one thing is for sure, our efforts to understand the Bible will pay off by leading us and those we teach closer to Him.
Philippians 2 says that God is at work in us as we seek Him. Now that’s a vote of confidence! Have a great day.
by Barrett Vanlandingham
If the time comes that someone asks you to chop down a forest with an ax, most of us would take the time to sharpen our blade first because a dull ax would lead to a lot of frustration; and, if you want to see clearly while driving in a rainstorm, it pays to install a new set of wipers now and then when you get your car serviced; and, if you want to rest safely under a good shade tree, it would be nice to know that its roots are well-watered and extend deep into the soil. I know, you get the picture.
Spiritually speaking, each of us has a responsibility to be prepared and make sure we continue to grow and develop a deeper understanding of God’s Word. After all, as Christians, 1 Peter 3:15 says that we are to “...Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have...”
In 2 Timothy 4:2, Paul tells Timothy to 2Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season...” This fits perfectly with 2:15 in regard to “correctly handling” or “rightly dividing the Word of Truth.” It’s so important for us to keep our minds spiritually sharp so we don’t begin to put up with unsound doctrine (4:3).
As Christians, there will be times when those we are closest to have questions about God’s Word. It’s up to you and me to make sure we’ve done all we can to know where to find the answer, and then to know how to explain the passage if it’s not completely clear. There are some passages we may never fully understand. But one thing is for sure, our efforts to understand the Bible will pay off by leading us and those we teach closer to Him.
Philippians 2 says that God is at work in us as we seek Him. Now that’s a vote of confidence! Have a great day.
Food for the Soul (March 18, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
Matthew 4:1-4 “1. Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. 2. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3. The tempter came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread." 4. Jesus answered, "It is written: `Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.' "
Have you ever walked into a grocery store on an empty stomach? Not a good idea... at least for me. I tend to buy and then eat anything and everything that’s not good for me.
When we are at our weakest moments spiritually, temptations can get the best of us if we’re not continually feasting on God’s Word. Keeping our minds full of what God has to say to us is the only way to prevent Satan from filling our spiritual voids with his falsehoods that lead to eternal damnation.
To accomplish this, we must make it a habit to study God’s Word continually. It’s never too early to get your kids and grandkids into the habit of feasting on God’s Word. It is up to each of us to find creative ways of encouraging those we love to read the Bible.
While I typed the above scripture reference, guess who was reading it to me? My 8 year old daughter, Gracie. May God bless each of us with the time and desire to feast on the Word of God.
by Barrett Vanlandingham
Matthew 4:1-4 “1. Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. 2. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3. The tempter came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread." 4. Jesus answered, "It is written: `Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.' "
Have you ever walked into a grocery store on an empty stomach? Not a good idea... at least for me. I tend to buy and then eat anything and everything that’s not good for me.
When we are at our weakest moments spiritually, temptations can get the best of us if we’re not continually feasting on God’s Word. Keeping our minds full of what God has to say to us is the only way to prevent Satan from filling our spiritual voids with his falsehoods that lead to eternal damnation.
To accomplish this, we must make it a habit to study God’s Word continually. It’s never too early to get your kids and grandkids into the habit of feasting on God’s Word. It is up to each of us to find creative ways of encouraging those we love to read the Bible.
While I typed the above scripture reference, guess who was reading it to me? My 8 year old daughter, Gracie. May God bless each of us with the time and desire to feast on the Word of God.
Middle Ground or Holy Ground (March 4, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
“Tell me whose side are you livin’ on? I’m livin’ on the Lord’s side.” Those beautiful words rang out in song at the Intermediate Elementary gymnasium in Fort Gibson Monday. What a thrill it was to guide the souls of 168 at “Kids For Christ” a little closer to God. Commitment was my lesson topic. Through several Bible passages, crowd participation, and those little remote control cars I told you about a couple of weeks ago, these 3rd-5th graders were able to learn that there is no middle ground when it comes to serving the Lord. We’re just as lost when we straddle the fence as we are when we refuse to obey God’s commands altogether.
For a kid, this means if somebody wants you to join in on making fun of a classmate, bullying someone, or just leaving someone out of your friendship circle, tell them, "I can't because I'm living on the Lord's side." This is Bible-based information that our kids and grandkids need to know today more than ever. Oh, if we adults could fully learn this lesson.
In the song, "On Bended Knee," we sing "...make our lives a holy praise unto You." Yes, everything we do should glorify God. But let us never forget that pleasing God not only means loving and serving Him, but also loving and serving others. (reference: Matthew 22:34-40, Philippains 2:3, Galatianss 5:13)
Likewise, we can have confidence that if we choose to obey God’s commands, this puts us in a loving relationship with the Father. Then we can know without a doubt we are living holy lives on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ, not on uncommitted middle ground, but on committed holy ground.
by Barrett Vanlandingham
“Tell me whose side are you livin’ on? I’m livin’ on the Lord’s side.” Those beautiful words rang out in song at the Intermediate Elementary gymnasium in Fort Gibson Monday. What a thrill it was to guide the souls of 168 at “Kids For Christ” a little closer to God. Commitment was my lesson topic. Through several Bible passages, crowd participation, and those little remote control cars I told you about a couple of weeks ago, these 3rd-5th graders were able to learn that there is no middle ground when it comes to serving the Lord. We’re just as lost when we straddle the fence as we are when we refuse to obey God’s commands altogether.
For a kid, this means if somebody wants you to join in on making fun of a classmate, bullying someone, or just leaving someone out of your friendship circle, tell them, "I can't because I'm living on the Lord's side." This is Bible-based information that our kids and grandkids need to know today more than ever. Oh, if we adults could fully learn this lesson.
In the song, "On Bended Knee," we sing "...make our lives a holy praise unto You." Yes, everything we do should glorify God. But let us never forget that pleasing God not only means loving and serving Him, but also loving and serving others. (reference: Matthew 22:34-40, Philippains 2:3, Galatianss 5:13)
Likewise, we can have confidence that if we choose to obey God’s commands, this puts us in a loving relationship with the Father. Then we can know without a doubt we are living holy lives on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ, not on uncommitted middle ground, but on committed holy ground.
Choose This Day (February 19, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
1. Whose remote control is in charge of your life?
2. In the spiritual game of tag, we have the ultimate base
if we hold fast to God’s word. These were the topics of two devotionals last weekend at a lock-in for the Fort Gibson and Haskell youth groups and their friends.
In the first devo, I used one remote control car and two transmitters on the same frequency to illustrate how we can’t serve two masters. The toy car obviously didn’t have a choice in the matter. So, when Cole and Colby were both trying to maneuver the car at the same time, it rolled back and forth, ‘round in circles, and stalled out instead of following a straight path. However, Christians are able to choose which signals we accept. Gal. 5:17 reminds us that sin and God’s Spirit are in conflict with each other. Rev. 3:14-22 tells us lukewarm Christians have no place in Christ. In Jos. 24:14-15, Joshua encourages the Israelites to choose to serve God.
The second devo was given by Haskell’s youth minister, Mark Kennell, and involved two games of tag... one game had a base (safe zone), and the other didn’t. This illustrated life when we walk with God versus turning away from Him like the Israelites in the book of Jeremiah.
45 of us made the trip. About 10 were visitors. We stayed overnight at the Robinson Avenue Church of Christ gymnasium in Springdale, played lots of games and had a midnight pizza party. The trip also included a trip to the mall and to the “Jones Center for Families” where we went ice-skating. Most of the kids were so tired after staying up all night, we left early instead of staying for our 4pm swim. We all had tons of fun, and learned some valuable lessons about making choices.
by Barrett Vanlandingham
1. Whose remote control is in charge of your life?
2. In the spiritual game of tag, we have the ultimate base
if we hold fast to God’s word. These were the topics of two devotionals last weekend at a lock-in for the Fort Gibson and Haskell youth groups and their friends.
In the first devo, I used one remote control car and two transmitters on the same frequency to illustrate how we can’t serve two masters. The toy car obviously didn’t have a choice in the matter. So, when Cole and Colby were both trying to maneuver the car at the same time, it rolled back and forth, ‘round in circles, and stalled out instead of following a straight path. However, Christians are able to choose which signals we accept. Gal. 5:17 reminds us that sin and God’s Spirit are in conflict with each other. Rev. 3:14-22 tells us lukewarm Christians have no place in Christ. In Jos. 24:14-15, Joshua encourages the Israelites to choose to serve God.
The second devo was given by Haskell’s youth minister, Mark Kennell, and involved two games of tag... one game had a base (safe zone), and the other didn’t. This illustrated life when we walk with God versus turning away from Him like the Israelites in the book of Jeremiah.
45 of us made the trip. About 10 were visitors. We stayed overnight at the Robinson Avenue Church of Christ gymnasium in Springdale, played lots of games and had a midnight pizza party. The trip also included a trip to the mall and to the “Jones Center for Families” where we went ice-skating. Most of the kids were so tired after staying up all night, we left early instead of staying for our 4pm swim. We all had tons of fun, and learned some valuable lessons about making choices.
Wednesday, January 14, 2004
Attendance: A Sign of Commitment (Part 1-February 12, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
I once heard a story from Dr. Howard Norton regarding a statement he made from the pulpit when he was a young preacher. It almost got him fired. Dr. Norton was my first bible professor at Oklahoma Christian, and now heads up Harding University’s Institute for Church and Family. So, obviously, he survived the ordeal that happened decades ago.
Anyway, back to the story. Dr. Norton quoted himself as a young preacher as saying, “If you don’t attend worship on Sunday evenings, you’re going to hell.” Afterwards, a brother explained to him the reason why his statement was uninformed. The man said that back in the old days, their congregation had a traveling minister who preached on Sunday mornings. But in the evening as he was awaiting his train out of town, people would gather to hear one more sermon before he left. And that’s how the elders of that congregation made evening worship a tradition in that town.
Acts 20:7 tells us the early Christians met on the first day of the week. It doesn’t say to meet at 9:30am and 5pm and on Wednesdays. On this occasion, Paul preached all day and all night until the next morning. The only break he had was when Eutychus fell asleep and fell from the third story and was picked up dead. Paul healed him and then kept talking until daylight.
So why is there Sunday pm worship, Wednesday devo & bible class, & why are there gospel meetings & special youth gatherings? That’s Part 2, next week. Have a wonderful day! Barrett
by Barrett Vanlandingham
I once heard a story from Dr. Howard Norton regarding a statement he made from the pulpit when he was a young preacher. It almost got him fired. Dr. Norton was my first bible professor at Oklahoma Christian, and now heads up Harding University’s Institute for Church and Family. So, obviously, he survived the ordeal that happened decades ago.
Anyway, back to the story. Dr. Norton quoted himself as a young preacher as saying, “If you don’t attend worship on Sunday evenings, you’re going to hell.” Afterwards, a brother explained to him the reason why his statement was uninformed. The man said that back in the old days, their congregation had a traveling minister who preached on Sunday mornings. But in the evening as he was awaiting his train out of town, people would gather to hear one more sermon before he left. And that’s how the elders of that congregation made evening worship a tradition in that town.
Acts 20:7 tells us the early Christians met on the first day of the week. It doesn’t say to meet at 9:30am and 5pm and on Wednesdays. On this occasion, Paul preached all day and all night until the next morning. The only break he had was when Eutychus fell asleep and fell from the third story and was picked up dead. Paul healed him and then kept talking until daylight.
So why is there Sunday pm worship, Wednesday devo & bible class, & why are there gospel meetings & special youth gatherings? That’s Part 2, next week. Have a wonderful day! Barrett
Attendance: A Sign of Commitment (Part 2-February 19, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
So why do we meet on Sunday nights, Wednesdays, special gospel meetings and youth gatherings? For starters, the elders of our congregation are the spiritual shepherds of the flock. That’s us, the flock. I.B., Bobby, Harvey, Budo, and Clarence are responsible for making sure our spiritual needs are met at the Fort Gibson Church of Christ.
One of the ways they make sure we’re spiritually fed is by scheduling additional time for us to meet together like the early church did. So, if we make a conscious decision to skip an assembly, are we really giving double honor to our elders who direct the affairs of the church as we should (1 Tim. 5:17) ? And are we really seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, or are we seeking our own selfish interests (Matt 6:33)? And are we using the assembly times to encourage and spur one another on to love and good deeds as we should, or are we in the habit of giving up meeting together (Heb 10:19-31) ? Do we even think about attending for the sake of encouraging others, or is it all about self?
After Peter preached the first gospel sermon in Acts 2, the people were cut to the heart, accepted the message, repented, and were baptized. If they were truly cut to the heart, they certainly must have taken this opportunity to confess or acknowledge (Matt. 10:32 and Romans 10:9) that “Jesus is Lord.” Acts 2 says three thousand were saved that day. They were so excited about the teaching and fellowship, they continued meeting daily in the temple courts and in their homes.
To some folks, church attendance is a drudgery.
Their focus has been taken off of glorifying God and encouraging others as we should. If you don’t believe it, just look at how the numbers drop off for worship, class and fellowship times other than Sunday mornings. If you’re feeling brave, just lovingly ask someone why they don’t come to services and bible class more often. Jesus Christ went the “extra” mile for us. Are we devoting our lives to Him? Have a wonderful day! Barrett
by Barrett Vanlandingham
So why do we meet on Sunday nights, Wednesdays, special gospel meetings and youth gatherings? For starters, the elders of our congregation are the spiritual shepherds of the flock. That’s us, the flock. I.B., Bobby, Harvey, Budo, and Clarence are responsible for making sure our spiritual needs are met at the Fort Gibson Church of Christ.
One of the ways they make sure we’re spiritually fed is by scheduling additional time for us to meet together like the early church did. So, if we make a conscious decision to skip an assembly, are we really giving double honor to our elders who direct the affairs of the church as we should (1 Tim. 5:17) ? And are we really seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, or are we seeking our own selfish interests (Matt 6:33)? And are we using the assembly times to encourage and spur one another on to love and good deeds as we should, or are we in the habit of giving up meeting together (Heb 10:19-31) ? Do we even think about attending for the sake of encouraging others, or is it all about self?
After Peter preached the first gospel sermon in Acts 2, the people were cut to the heart, accepted the message, repented, and were baptized. If they were truly cut to the heart, they certainly must have taken this opportunity to confess or acknowledge (Matt. 10:32 and Romans 10:9) that “Jesus is Lord.” Acts 2 says three thousand were saved that day. They were so excited about the teaching and fellowship, they continued meeting daily in the temple courts and in their homes.
To some folks, church attendance is a drudgery.
Their focus has been taken off of glorifying God and encouraging others as we should. If you don’t believe it, just look at how the numbers drop off for worship, class and fellowship times other than Sunday mornings. If you’re feeling brave, just lovingly ask someone why they don’t come to services and bible class more often. Jesus Christ went the “extra” mile for us. Are we devoting our lives to Him? Have a wonderful day! Barrett
"What Are You Called To Do?" (January 22, 2004)
by Barrett Vanlandingham
In 1 Chronicles 28:20, King David speaks to his son Solomon who the Lord chose to take his place as King of Israel. David was in the process of giving Solomon the plans for building the Lord's temple since God would not allow David this opportunity since he was a warrior and had shed blood.
"David also said to Solomon his son, 'Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, My God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is Finished.' "
As Christians, we are also chosen as royalty. 1 Peter 2:9 says, "But you a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."
King David would have loved to build God's temple. But that's not what he was called to do. As Christians, each of us have been blessed with talent and opportuny to tell the gospel story to those around us. We're not all called to use the same talent or methods. And we don't all have the same methods and opportunities of telling the story of Jesus Christ, salvation, and how He won the ultimate victory over Satan. But each of us can do something to bring someone closer to the likeness of Jesus Christ.
And just like David's words to Solomon, we also should be strong and courageous as we build-up our spiritual houses (1Peter 2:5) and encourage others as we glorify God with our lives everyday. Have a wonderful day! Barrett
by Barrett Vanlandingham
In 1 Chronicles 28:20, King David speaks to his son Solomon who the Lord chose to take his place as King of Israel. David was in the process of giving Solomon the plans for building the Lord's temple since God would not allow David this opportunity since he was a warrior and had shed blood.
"David also said to Solomon his son, 'Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, My God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is Finished.' "
As Christians, we are also chosen as royalty. 1 Peter 2:9 says, "But you a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."
King David would have loved to build God's temple. But that's not what he was called to do. As Christians, each of us have been blessed with talent and opportuny to tell the gospel story to those around us. We're not all called to use the same talent or methods. And we don't all have the same methods and opportunities of telling the story of Jesus Christ, salvation, and how He won the ultimate victory over Satan. But each of us can do something to bring someone closer to the likeness of Jesus Christ.
And just like David's words to Solomon, we also should be strong and courageous as we build-up our spiritual houses (1Peter 2:5) and encourage others as we glorify God with our lives everyday. Have a wonderful day! Barrett
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