Volume 3

November 2013

E-Herald of the Coming Kingdom

The time has come, and the Kingdom of God is near. Change the way you think and act, and believe the Good News. Mark 1:15 GW

Discipleship And Thanksgiving Issue

DEDICATED TO SPREADING THE GOOD NEWS OF GODS COMING KINGDOM TO BE ESTABLISHED WHEN CHRIST RETURNS

Editorial
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THANKSGIVING:
Thanksgiving Praises
Page 2

Almost Persuaded
Kermit Zarley
Page 25

Pine Woods Bible Class

Page 27

Israel, the Pilgrims and Us

Kent Ross
Page 31

DISCIPLESHIP:
What Exactly is a Disciple and How is Discipleship Attained
Lonnie Craig
Page 7

The Decision and Price of a Disciple

Chuck Jones
Page 9

Discipleship: What is it?

Michael Montgomery
Page 12

What Defines a Disciple of Christ?

Nancy Bolton
Page 14

Christian Discipleship
Ron Macy
Page 16

What is a Disciple of Christ?

Ed Bender
Page 18

Christian Disciple
Steve Katsaras
Page 20

Discipleship: Learning, Understanding, Living Christ

Russell Rankin
Page 22 Page 2

Editors Note
Co-Editors: Kent H. Ross Wally Winner

Disciples and Discipleship Some time back, at a breakfast with some pastor friends, the subject of "making disciples" came up. That was Jesus' final directions to His followers, including us. I answered, but didn't like my answer which was impromptu, just at that moment. Since it was a last command the One we call Lord I felt I needed to be able to express it more completely, more concisely, and frankly better. So in my personal thinking on the matter, it came to me to ask someone else to write their thoughts on the subject. Then I thought of asking another, and then another and I grew more excited to think of the answers from all over, even as far as Australia. All of those are finally gathered into these eight articles, expressing these individual's thoughts on the topic. Read and enjoy, then reflect on what your church is doing regarding "discipleship and making disciples" of all nations. What are you personally doing? This Month is Thanksgiving Here in the U.S. Not everywhere, though our readers in Canada have already celebrated their Thanksgiving on October 14th., and perhaps other nations do so as well. Many often have some kind of celebration as part of the Harvest of crops. The U.S. began their Thanksgiving, as or folklore has it, with the Indians of the Massachusetts area, and the Pilgrims of the Plymouth Colony. It first was celebrated rather informally, but finally was recognized as a national holiday, a day to recognize and thank God for his providence. Even in the depth of the Great Depression people paused to thank Him with meager feasts, by remembering Him. It is probably difficult this year in the troubled economic trials we face, but we will persevere, not just with stuffing ourselves, and then slumbering in front of the football game on television, but somewhere finding some time for real Thanksgiving. It's interesting to note that Halloween has become a dominant shopping time, but already Christmas displays are going up/ Thanksgiving, a wonderful national holiday on which to Thank our Maker, has become lost between Witches and Goblins and Candy, and Santa Claus, Presents and Programs. From My Reading "While we are zealously performing the duties of good citizens and soldiers, we certainly ought not to be inattentive to the higher duties of religion. To the distinguished character of Patriot, it should be our highest glory to add the more distinguished character of Christian." ~~ George Washington (1778) ~~

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Though our readership goes far beyond the borders of this nation, it is a truism across the globe. The distinguished characteristic of Christian seems far removed from the actions of our leaders in this country, and certainly true in many other lands. True Christianity is scarce in the entire world, and especially among world leaders who seem unaware how world events all point toward the Middle East as a powder keg ready to explode, with Israel, the "apple of God's eye" seemingly being abandoned by its historic friends. The disastrous bungling of western nations in dealing with the Muslim world has produced a scenario of hostile nations rising to surround Israel. When being Muslim wasn't enough some aspect of the Muslin Brotherhood seemed to come to the fore. Egypt, Libya, Turkey, most recently Syria, but also the Palestinians, the unsettled world of Iraq and Afghanistan, and the madness in Iran. The United States, arguably the single most powerful nation, with pathetic leadership grows weaker and less willing and less able to stand with Israel. Someone had suggested that the only place the U.S. can perhaps be found in prophecy is in Ezekiel 38:13, but it is highly obscure to find the United States here. Peace With Who in Nine Months??? That's what Secretary of State Kerry hoped as he wanted to bring Israel and the Palestinians to the peace table. September is gone and now October, but we can't expect the peace until May, 2014, so "they" said. Well, we will keep count. 8 Signs in Acts of a Healthy Church 1. We must minister in the Holy Spirits power - Acts 1:4 2. We must maintain a warm fellowship - Acts 2:42-44 3. We must multiply small groups - Acts 2:46 4. We must magnify our vision of God - Acts 4:24 5. We must maximize the power of prayer - Acts 4:31 6. We must model Christ-like generosity - Acts 4:32-37 7. We must mobilize every member for ministry - Acts 6 8. We must move out with Gods mission - Acts 1:7,8 This is repeated from last month and ought to be used in your church, but it needs to be studies AND ACTED UPON to do any good. Healthy, Vibrant, Loving and Growing Churches are what ours, NO, what HIS churches can be, and what they need to be. Let's think this through and let the Lord remake you and the His Church where you attend into everything He wants it to be. Evangelism, New Churches and Church Growth Needed NOW This needs to be a goal for every church and Conference. Right now our General Conference is struggling financially and is unable to lead in this, so the genius needs to come from with you. Remember a new church does not need a building, but some people dedicated to Him, contending for the Faith once delivered to us!

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Top Five Thanksgiving Praises:

I requested the following from some eighteen Christian women in our churches. In the November issue of the E-Herald of the Coming Kingdom, I want to feature lists of those five items for which we're the most thankful. I don't want any of you to write anything more than your top five. If you want to add a sentence of explanation that is okay, but not paragraphs. If you could sit down and do it right away, off the top of your head, please do so. And I want to thank you in advance. Many will find blessings in your thanksgivings. Only seven were inclined to respond, but those are wonderful and remind us of the providence of God. Thank you to the seven that have shared their blessings. Carrie (Krogh) Briggs: 1. God's infinite love and grace 2. Jesus 3. Hope 4. My children (Colton & Elijah) 5. My Church of God family Sharon (Guiles) Cain: 1. God's plan for believers . . . salvation through Jesus, 2nd coming of Jesus and the future hope of the Kingdom of God 2. All my immediate and extended family and the recent new babies in the family 3. God's beautiful creation and especially the season of SUMMER 4. My health 5. Abilities God has given me so I can serve Him and Jesus Merry Peterson: 1. My Faith- with all the hope, value, and blessings that God provides with that. 2. The love of my family & friends 3. Clean Water for drinking/washing etc. - it is a privilege in our world. 4. Days when the sunshine dances and the birds sing 5. The ability to read (my Bible & other things I especially enjoy the sparkle in children's eyes when they discover that they can read too!

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Rachel (Krogh) Carr: 1. Faith -- heritage passed down through the generations 2. Forgiveness through Jesus' sacrifice 3. Family -- physical and church 4. Freedoms enjoyed in this country 5. Future -- promise of eternal life Sara Jane (Peters) McLaughlin: 1. My salvation and legacy of faith of my parents 2. My husband, children and sisters 3. My piano 4. My health 5. My quilt hobby Paula (Bolhous) Kirkpatrick: 1. For a relationship with God my Creator through his Son Jesus Christ, the gift of salvation and the coming Kingdom He has promised, His Word and continual access to Him through prayer. 2. My family--husband, children and spouses, grandchildren, extended family, and my family that preceded me, that brought me to His saving faith; my church family, who truly is family to us, and for dear friends in the faith all over the world, who nourish and encourage us, and just for friends and laughter shared. 3. God's incredible creation, changing seasons, beauty all over this amazing world, that we have the privilege to see and touch and hear and taste and feel each day, delighting in its incomprehensible magnificence. 4. For my home, food, clothes, warmth, electricity, and yes a computer with an internet connection--all the creature comforts we take for granted, that so many in this world do not have, cannot imagine having, and would be so happy just to sleep in a warm bed, or enjoy a hot filling meal. 5. For freedom to worship, to work where I want to, go where I want to, live where I want to, without fear. So many do not have this basic human Right. Cheryl Ross: 1. Answered prayer 2. Family 3. Hope found in Biblical truths 4. Health to be alive and focused 5. Smiles

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What Exactly is a Disciple, and How is Discipleship Attained?

By Lonnie Craig
Websters Dictionary defines a disciple as a learner, a scholar, one who receives or professes to receive instruction from another; a follower, an adherent to the doctrine of another. Thus, a person who claims to be a disciple is a person who is following the teachings or beliefs of another person. A disciple of Jesus claims to be following what Jesus is teaching, while a disciple of Mohammed or Buddha or Joseph Smith claims to be a follower of one of them. To put it another way, a disciple is a person who is trying to become more like the person whom he upholds as his example. Those who are disciples of Mohammed will try to live as if, in a sense, they were Mohammed. There is an important distinction which everyone should realize- a disciple is not a person who is going to become his master. Jesus himself said this in Matthew 10:24, that a servant is not greater than his master. It is enough, Jesus says, for the student to be like his teacher and the servant like his master. The word disciple is common within Christianity but lets be realistic- you can be a disciple of anyone, even if your model is irreligious. You can be a disciple of Ronald Reagan, of Benny Hinn, of Adolph Hitler, of Hulk Hogan, of Voltaire, or even someone who is not famous such as your parents or your pastor. It is even conceivable that you could become a disciple of an idea, a philosophy, or a thing. Jesus did say in Matthew 6:24 that you could be a servant to money, and money is not a person that has his own, in a sense, ideology or worldview. So if you wanted to become a disciple of money, that is very possible; just observe what money does and how it acts, and then plan your life in that fashion. How does a person become a disciple? He accomplishes it by observing how his master lives and what his master says, then he imitates it. He is a person who pays close attention to how his master would do certain things or how he would speak in certain instances, then attempts to apply those things to his own life. This can be attempted whether the master is available or not available, although if the master is not available it will require more effort and study as well as a hope that there is enough Page 7

information about the master to be able to properly learn from him. In many ways, it will be easier to try to be a disciple of someone like Pope Francis I than Pope John XXIII, because Francis I is alive and can be consulted while John XXIII is dead and therefore cannot be. Furthermore, a disciple must dedicate himself to just ONE master. It is not possible for a disciple to serve more than one person or try to emulate his life after two or more people. The reason is simpleIf you attempt to follow the example of two different men (even if they may come from the same worldview), they will not always believe the exact same way on every single issue. You then end up having to choose between the two. When you do this, you are no longer a disciple of one person or idea. This is why Jesus said that you cannot serve two masters, and that you cannot serve both God and money because both of them have conflicting ideas and priorities (again, see Matthew 6:24). Or there is a third option- you could simply take what you perceive to be the best (or worst) of several different people and/or philosophies and form your own ideal from which you model your life. But even this, you will discover, will turn out to be one person/ideal that you will learn from; in effect, you have made a completely new ideal from which you choose to learn. So no matter how you go about it, ultimately you will serve and be a disciple of one, and ONLY one, person or idea. When it comes to being a disciple of Jesus Christ, then, the above can be used to form a plan for how to attain discipleship under him: 1) You first must know who Jesus REALLY is. Not as you may wish he is or how some others perceive Jesus as, but who Jesus truly is. You must know what he believes, says, teaches and acts. You must know what Jesus stands for in every circumstance, even if they are circumstances that may not be spelled out explicitly in Scripture. This, incidentally, is why the Second Commandment is so important- An idol is someone that is not truly God but is going to be different from God and His son in some manner, no matter how minor the issue or idea may be. If we come up with a false idea of who God is, or who Jesus is, we will end up believing false things about God, and when we believe false things about God, our actions will end up not being consistent with what God truly is and what He does. The same can go with Jesus since he is the exact representation of God the Father (Hebrews 1:2-3). So if you believe in the God of the Modern-Day Gospel, which teaches that God is a big Santa Claus in the sky that doesnt care about sin, what kind of a person do you think you will become? Or if you believe that God is an uncaring judge who will strike someone down just for having a good time (as H.L. Menken believed), what kind of a person do you believe you will become? But if you believe in the God of the Bible who is portrayed as being completely holy, just, righteous, compassionate and loving, how will this cause you to live?
2) We must then use that knowledge about the true Christ and change our lives to conform to who

he is and what he stands for. This is so difficult because so many things we innately believe run contrary to what Jesus believed and we act in so many ways that Jesus would find contemptuous. We enter the Christian life with presupposed perceptions on what life is, what sin is, who God is, and so on. When we become a disciple of Jesus, we must, as one famous sci-fi character said, unlearn what we have learned, and then re-learn, using Jesus as our basis for our new attitude and new worldview. That, in a nutshell, is discipleship from a Christian perspective. It is learning who Jesus is and becoming like him in every way. We must let Jesus teach us about who he is from reading the accurate Word of God. The more time we spend reading the Bible, the more we will truly learn about who he is. The question then becomes, will we use what we have to change our lives or will learning about Jesus simply be an intellectual exercise? Will we let Jesus change us by instructing us on where we are wrong and how to conform our thinking to his, or will we simply nod politely when Jesus speaks of hard issues such as anger and lust and hatred of our enemies without change? Page 8

The Decision and Price of a Disciple

By Chuck Jones
Throughout our daily routines, we are faced with countless decisions. Some are made without really giving any thought to them, while others are given careful consideration. Between these two extremes, easy or difficult, fall most of lifes decisions. We usually dont take a lot of time to decide the easy ones, nor do we hurry in making the important decisions. If we do, then something is wrong with our thought processes, because the impact of one type of decision is greater than the other. I fear that today many Christians have taken a relaxed view of their relationship to Christ. Instead of weighing all of the data before committing, they make this important decision too quickly. This decision, when made, will have the most profound impact on ones lifestyle. However, what I see as truth has been diluted to satisfy people rather than the master. Being a disciple of Jesus is more than attending church. Often times church membership is held in the same esteem as discipleship, or worse yet, supersedes it. In many churches a person can be considered a member by attending once each quarter, and/or making a financial contribution. This does not, in any stretch of the imagination, equal discipleship. In spite of this, some have a false sense of security in church membership. Many other activities have been confused with discipleship: carrying a Bible, being a pretty good person, helping out at church work days, or listening to Christian radio. These things should not be ignored, however, being a disciple of Jesus is a much more life altering decision than spending a few hours a week being helpful, kind or good. Beware: Easy Believism Defeats Dedication From the explanation Jesus gave of the parable of the sower ( Matthew 13:18-23), we see how the difference in decision making is played out. Page 9

But he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the Word and immediately receives it with joy. Yet he has no root in himself but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the Word, immediately he stumbles. (Vs. 20-21) Here, Jesus is speaking directly to those who make a quick, easy decision. These people, when hard times come because of the Word, drop it. In fact, the idea of tribulation is so offensive that many teach there will be no tribulation for Christians, now or in the future. Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the Word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the Word and it becomes unfruitful. (Vs. 22) As we will see later on, this speaks about repentance. These people are not willing to pay the price for discipleship, and are unfruitful. Again, they made too hasty a decision about discipleship, thinking perhaps that looking the part was the same as living the part. We have silk flowers that certainly look real, but looks dont make them real! Finally, Jesus goes to the genuine article, But he who received seed on good ground is he who hears the Word and understands it. Who indeed bears fruit and produces some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. (s. 23) The major difference is that the last understood what they heard. They realized the implications and decided to go with it. These people are true disciples, producing fruit of more disciples. Making a decision to be a disciple of Jesus will have a great impact on the rest of your life. Therefore it needs to be made with understanding. Let it be said that Jesus never made a distinction between follower, believer, disciple or servant. Lets look at how Jesus describes a follower in Luke 9:23-26. Then he said to them all, if anyone desires to come after me let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me. (s. 23) Jesus is making it very clear, to everyone listening, that it is not an easy decision. The idea of desire to come in fact means a weighted decision made. It also includes a stubborn resolution not to change ones mind This is what marriage is patterned after, (In Ephesians 5:22-32 Paul describes the marriage relationship. It is one patterned after the relationship of Jesus to his disciples. This points to the fact that marriage is actually a Christian arrangement.) and the decision of whom to marry is indeed a life impacting one. When that weighted decision is made, one must then be stubbornly resolute not to look for another mate, no matter the temptation, pressures, or hurts. Nothing, from the time of the decision forward, should cause anyone to change their minds. Using this as a guide, we can see today that people are not willing to pay the price and be committed to one mate. This decision is not as important as deciding to follow Jesus, yet is it held in low regard also. Here is the price Jesus sets for those who would follow: deny yourself, bear your cross, and follow him. The sense of denial here is to disown yourself or abstain from gratifying yourself. Denial of yourself is actually placing Jesus in the Lordship position in your life. This means, then, that we are to gratify him, instead of ourselves. Bearing your cross carries the idea of a life of surrender, dedication, and suffering, if need be. It is a constant reminder that we are living the life patterned after Christ and not the world. This leads to the third part: follow Jesus. In following Jesus, he wants an exclusive relationship with you, one that is not divided between loyalties or desires. He has left us an example to follow, and his will is for each of us to walk as he walked, and live as he did, before God and men. Page 10

All of this actually is represented in the term repent. Repentance is turning from one world view to another. No longer allowing the worlds philosophies to direct, but instead the wisdom of God. Repentance is turning from the practices we have learned from the world, and replacing them with righteousness, justice, and mercy (1Peter 1:18 tells us that we are redeemed from our vain life style, that we learned from our fathers. It is possible to overcome a bad upbringing through repentance). Being a disciple of Jesus is an important decision, one that should not be made lightly. Yet it is based on a rather simple fact. Note what Jesus said.. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it. But whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. (Vs. 24) The world reads this and wonders, How can this be? Here is yet another display of Gods wisdom confounding worldly wisdom. If you want to save your life now and enjoy what the world has to offer (and God will allow you that), you will lose your life. On the other hand, if you are willing to pay the price Jesus sets forth, and lose your life for his sake, you will save it. Here is Jesus logic. For what profit is it to anyone if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost? (Vs. 25) This logic is based on those things which are not seen, the eternal things. If all you want is 80-90 years on this earth, and not life in the age to come, you can have your desire. God will leave the choice up to you. Discipleship will not, nor can it, be thrust upon an unwilling person. You are either willing to follow Jesus, and all that it entails, or you are not. Either the price is paid or unpaid. Either way, that decision rests squarely on your shoulders. However you decide, will determine how Jesus responds to you. For whoever is ashamed of me and my words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when he comes in his glory and in his Fathers [glory] and [with] the Holy angels. (Vs. 26) When I think of the word ashamed, I think of the things in my past that I dont want others to know, which if they did know Id be ashamed. Jesus is saying that if you feel that way about him (that you dont want others to know he is in your life), then he will feel that way about you. Would you feel ashamed if people knew that you confessed Jesus as the Lord of your life? Would you be ashamed to tell people you are following Christ? However you feel about him, he will respond in the same way. The decision to follow Jesus is an important one. We are deciding to follow the standards he sets for his servants. We cant make them up as we go. There is a price to pay, and paying that price will set you apart in the world, literally it will make you a saint. Paying the price will make Jesus unashamed or proud of you. You can look forward to hearing, Well done good and faithful servant, enter the joy of your Lord. Paying the price of disowning yourself, living in dedication and surrender, and making Jesus the exclusive Lord of your life, will have a profound impact on your life, and on the lives of those around you. Consider it seriously. Count the cost.

For Further Consideration:1. Can you list some quick discussions youve made that werent long lasting? What were some questions you should have asked prior to deciding? 2. What understanding should be gained to make an intelligent decision to follow Jesus?3. How is Lordship and obedience connected?4. Can you explain how God responds to our choices? Consider also, forgiveness, giving and mercy. Page 11

Discipleship: What Is It?

By Michael Montgomery
John the Baptist had them. So did the Pharisees, and of course Jesus. Disciples are simply followers, students or learners. While the word disciples is sometimes interchanged with Apostles, Jesus had many disciples. Sadly, many of them turned back & no longer followed him (Jn. 6:66), causing Jesus to ask the Twelve, Do you want to leave me too? Foremost, a disciple (Of Jesus) is characterized by life-long commitment. Yes, Christians are saintsbelievers, but as such must be dedicated followerswalking in the ways of God & of Jesus all the days of their lives. Discipleship is costly; Jesus said, No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God. Those who came out of bondage in Egypt soon cried, Lets choose a leader and go back to Egypt! To look back, or want to go back, signifies a believers desire to return to the world. Our commitment to Christ must take precedence over all else- see Lk. 9:57-62. Its been suggested the 1st disciple (Vs. 57) may have been too quick in promising his loyaltyI will follow you wherever you go, while the 2nd & 3rd (Vs. 59 & 61) too slow in their allegiance- First, let me bury my fatherfirst let me go back & say good-by to my family. Our first allegiance is to God & to His Son, Jesus- Seek ye first the Kingdom of God & His righteousness. Page 12

Believers are disciples in the sense they are never too old to stop learning, growing- becoming more & more like Jesus. Like Mary (Lk. 10:39), we must always be found sitting at Jesus feet, listening to what he says. There must be both a readiness to receive His words and to put them into practice (Mt. 7:24). The one who comes to saving faith in Christ-who responds to the call, Come, follow me-must continually grow in the life of faith & grace. Paul says grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even ChristEph. 4:15. First we come to Jesus- the living Stone (1 Pet. 2:4), but then, we, like living stones, are being built, offering our spiritual sacrifices to God thru Jesus (2:5). Worship, then, is our response to Gods grace and the grace of Jesus. As saints, believers, disciples, we offer our whole selves as living sacrifices-offer to God, thru Jesus, our sacrifice of praise. Also, followers of Jesus are defined by their love for one another (Jn. 13:35), their service to others (Titus 2: 14) and by sound doctrine (Titus 2:1) which leads to sound living (Titus 2:12). As well, we are to be characterized by remaining in Jesus Word (Jn. 8:31), remaining in Him (Jn. 15:4), bearing fruit (Much fruit and more fruit- 15:2 & 5). Is it costly to be a disciple? Yes, its been said, The only thing more costly than following Jesus is not following Jesus. Are we to make disciples? Yes-especially in the sense of investing in the lives of others. Paul loved the Thessalonians-as a mother cares for her little children & as a father deals with his children, encouraging, comforting and urging them to live lives worthy of God- 1 Thess. 2:711-12. He strengthened and encouraged others to remain true to the faith (Acts 14:22), telling them, We must go thru many hardships to enter the kingdom of God. The greatest investment is leading others to Christ. We must listen to others, love others, teach others, pray for others to come to Christ, communicating the importance of obedience and serving as examples. We must live in such a way that others ask, What is the reason for the hope you have within? (1 Pet. 3:15), saying along with Paul, Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. (1 Cor. 11:1) While Christ is our Example in all of life, this verse refers to the previous one- Paul was not selfseeking, but sought the good of many, that they might be saved. Jesus came not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. What a privilege & responsibility to see others come to Christ, grow in the life of faith, in turn influencing others for the coming Kingdom. Who is equal to such a task? Paul asks this question in 2 Cor. 2:16 & gives the answer in 3:5- Not that we are competent in ourselvesour competence comes from God. To Him be the glory forever. Amen. Page 13

What Defines a Disciple of Christ?

By Nancy Bolton
When asked to ponder this topic, I had an idea in my mind of what constitutes a disciple of Christ. Various attributes of the disciples came to mind as well as their manner of service. One attribute they all shared was the fact that though involved in various vocations before following Jesus; these occupations were left in order to become a disciple. Peter, the fisherman, left his nets as Paul left his tent-making. Though Peter found it necessary to fish on occasion, just as Paul made tents at times, these men, in the manner of disciples, turned the focus of their lives to Christ and learning of Him. Though not all who follow Christ can drop everything, it is obvious that every believers affections and goals must undergo radical change. We are repeatedly warned that we cannot serve two masters. We cannot place our confidence in possessions, material wealth or in other people. Our focus must change from material success or being thought well of by family, friends, peers or any person, to applying ourselves to learn of God and His Son and how our lives may best serve their purpose. Our thoughts and behavior will undergo necessary changes as we follow the guidance and teaching of the Spirit. And it goes even deeper. If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:26-27 The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household? Mt 10:24-25 Though not the popular message, these words of our Master are clear and precise. The heart and mind of a disciple must be bent not only on following the example of Christs life and behavior, but must be prepared to suffer persecution and scorn, and still forgive, as Christ did. To do the deeds of Christ, we must have the same mind and Spirit, must hold to the same goals of furthering the gospel of the Kingdom and reconciling the world to God. Page 14

In the Old Testament, the prophet Isaiah defines a disciple in this way: The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of disciples, That I may know how to sustain the weary one with a word. He awakens Me morning by morning, He awakens My ear to listen as a disciple. ISAIAH 50:4 It is not sufficient for the disciple to be a good person. Disciples are to be known by love for God, for the brethren and also for their enemies. Their words and character must illustrate this. Their life is to be that of servants and ambassadors of the kingdom of God, exercising the fruits of the Spirit in their life. The scriptures are clear on this blueprint of a disciple of Christ. How can we help make a disciple? We know a person must begin with faith toward God. And we know that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. The most important thing we can do is study with new believers, answer their questions with scripture, and point them to the new birth. They must not be told that everything will be rosy once they convert. They need to know that this is a radical life-change, a step into a new reality. I happen to believe that many fall away, not only due to the incomprehensible teachings of false doctrine, which cause confusion and dysfunction, but also due to not being encouraged to count the cost. My husband and I suffered through many growing pains as new believers, which is to be expected. However, being taught doctrinal errors made this process much harder than it needed to be. Ill use as an example the doctrine of eternal torment. I remember beseeching God more than once not to torment people who didnt believe in Him. The relief of learning this was not the truth was liberating. It made me realize how this teaching not only misrepresents Gods character, but can cause believers to hide the fact that they think God is unfair, creating distance and fear between the disciples and God. And this is just one small aspect of the mental and emotional dysfunction false doctrine can cause. Doctrinal truth is of the utmost importance for the new believer as well as every disciple. We need to be constantly cleansed by the washing of the word. Encouraging potential converts to count the cost is almost as important, in my mind, as telling them the good news of the gospel of the kingdom. Of course we must emphasize the goodness of God, and the sacrifice of His Son, for this knowledge leads to repentance, but we mustnt leave undone the necessity of outlining the seriousness of their decision. This is more life-changing than any marriage or career choice, and deserves careful, thoughtful consideration. The sacrifice of Jesus deserves this level of reverence. The scriptures emphasize that salvation is free to anyone, as indeed it is. But they also tell us this salvation is bought for us with a precious price. After repentance and baptism of water and Spirit, new disciples will need some gentle guidance from experienced disciples to assist in their growth. Study and personal prayer should be emphasized. Also, as ambassadors, we experienced believers must consider our own behavior as extremely important examples for new disciples. Though their hearts and minds must be trained to focus on the guidance from the word and the Spirit, new believers will naturally learn from their brethren also. We must show them by our own confidence in the goodness and promises of God, that they are in good hands and can trust their whole self and all their faults and concerns to God. Jesus said none would enter the kingdom without faith and trust like a little child. How can we help a new disciple if we have not nurtured this in ourselves? So, while we are called to be disciples, and to nurture new ones, we must run our own race, work out our own salvation and never leave our first love. Love never fails, and this light must shine in us if we hope to be a representation of the light of Christ to this present world. There abides faith, hope, and love. The greatest of these is love. Page 15

Christian Discipleship
By Ron Macy
I am embarrassed to say that I just noticed something in a Bible passage for the first time. When Jesus was talking to the man who wanted to bury his father before following Jesus (Matthew 8:21-23), the man was described as another of the disciples (NASB). Some how, through the years I missed that. The man was not just a passer-by, but one who agreed with and believed in the teachings of Jesus. Jesus response seems rather harsh. The usual thought is that the mans father was nowhere near death at the time and that it would be many years before the man would start following Jesus. Jesus insisted that this was no time to wait. Follow Me. Then, there is an interesting statement in verse 23. When He (Jesus) got into the boat, His disciples followed Him. It struck me that this seemed to be a contrast between some disciples and others. Real disciples follow Jesus wherever He goes. Of course, in this situation, verse 23 refers to just the twelve because all of the disciples of Jesus would not have fit into the boat. The idea of following Jesus is very similar to liking someone on Facebook or following them on Twitter. In Jesus day a follower was one who accompanied someone in order to serve their needs on the journey. Following extended to agreeing with and believing in the things the person taught. Today, we cant always be physically with someone, but we can get any messages the person tweets. We can know what they are doing. We can know what they are thinking. When we know what someone is doing and thinking, we can begin to adjust our actions and thoughts to match theirs. That is being a disciple. Jesus defined discipleship in Matthew 10:24-25a. A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a slave above his master. It is enough for the disciple that he become like his teacher, and the slave like his master... He further defined discipleship in Matthew 12:46-50 as ...whoever does the will of My Father who is in heaven.... Being a disciple is being like Jesus and doing the will of God. The question is asked, How can we help make a disciple of Christ? An axiom I heard many years ago still describes what is needed. It takes a disciple to make a disciple, but you dont have to have much of a head start. This is the picture Paul presents in 1 Corinthians 11:1, Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ. As a disciple of Jesus we want to help others be disciples of Jesus, also. One of the critical elements in helping someone else be a disciple of Jesus is being transparent about our own successes and failures. It is essential to let our disciple know that failure happens to even the most sincere follower of Jesus. However, a disciple will confess (1 John 1:9) those failures and re-commit themselves to following closer to Jesus in the future.

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An important part in helping someone else become a disciple is to help them learn from the Bible on their own. We need to make sure the disciple we are helping is following Jesus and not us. There is no better way of getting the tweets of Jesus than to read about Him in the gospels. There is no better way of learning the will of God than reading the Bible. We must be enthusiastic about what we find in the Bible in order for our disciple to become enthusiastic about the Bible, too. People frequently complain about not being able to understand what the Bible says. I find it curious that Luke suggests the disciples were kept from understanding some of the things Jesus said. Luke 9:44, 45 gives this description. Jesus said, Let these words sink into your ears; for the Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. This describes the disciples. But they did not understand this statement, and it was concealed from them so that they would not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask Him about this statement. Luke 18:31-34 gives a similar description of Jesus telling them He was about to die and the disciples being kept from understanding what He was telling them. But the disciples understood none of these things, and the meaning of this statement was hidden from them, and they did not comprehend the things that were said. There is hope! Look at Luke 24:45-47. Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and He said to them, Thus it is written, that the Christ would suffer and rise again from the dead the third day, and that repentance for forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in His name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. The key is verse 45. Jesus opened the minds of the disciples so they could understand what the Scriptures said. This should be the prayer of all disciples at all levels of maturity. Father, open my mind so I can understand Your Word. Disciples are students of Gods Word whether it is alone in their private time with God, in Sunday school, in a worship service, or any other gathering of disciples. They are ready to hear what God has to say to them. They will even write down what they hear so they wont forget it. Disciples are prayers who know the power of God to affect peoples lives. Disciples are witnesses who are ready, willing, and able to tell others what God has done and is doing in their lives. When the right questions are asked, the disciple is ready to explain what is necessary for someone else to believe in Jesus as their Savior. The hope for the future of the church is to raise up followers of Jesus who help others to become followers of Jesus. This is presented well in 2 Timothy 2:2. The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Disciples reproduce themselves. Are you ready to like Jesus? Are you ready to follow Him? Page 17

What is a Disciple of Christ?

By Ed Bender
What is a Disciple of Christ? The basis for defining what a Disciple of Christ is must come from the Bible and from the lips of Christ himself. Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, All authority is heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28:16-20, NRSV. No doubt you are aware that the King James Version of the Bible states: Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, It is interesting to me that most of the places in the Bible were teach is used it is from the following Greek word: 1321 did-asko; a prol (caus.) form of a prim. Verb (to learn); to teach (in the same broad application): - teach. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament, page 23. So the conclusion is that one cannot teach if he does not learn first! Easily understood, but should be stated anyway! According to the Strongs Concordance the Greek word used in Matthew 28:19, is: 3100 math-ayt-yooa-o; from 3101; intransitive to become a pupil; transitive to disciple, i.e. enroll as scholar:--be disciple, instruct, teach. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament, page 45. It is interesting to me that this word actually has two meanings. This verb can be transitive or intransitive. The intransitive is first and declares that the person must first become a pupil. I understand Page 18

this to mean, the teacher must first be the pupil, i.e. must be taught before he can become a disciple and do the teaching. Jesus may have used this specific word to scold the disciples a bit because some doubted I would like to hear discussion on this aspect. Do we send out disciples without preparing them efficiently with a sufficient knowledge of the Scriptures? Remember, Jesus had not finished his teaching at this point in his ministry. See John 21:24, 25 and Acts 1:1-4. Then, when the pupil has been sufficiently taught then he can become a teacher. Are we able instructors, teachers and maybe even scholars? We are only if we have learned at the feet of another disciple/teacher/scholar and in prayer at the feet of Jesus. [I just place my thoughts on scholar. I my opinion a Bible Scholar is not necessarily a person of many degrees, but one with a complete and thorough understanding of the Scriptures].

How can we assist in making a Disciple? As just discussed, we must first be a learner at the feet of another disciple. Then we can be a disciple/teacher. I have always contended that in order for us to be teachers we must be equipped to teach i.e. we must be first taught. I want to share some of my experiences of what assisted me in being a teacher. My first experience that I remember was my mother teaching me the books of the Bible. On Sunday afternoon I had to go to her bedroom and tell her the books of the Bible. I had such a problem with the Minor Prophets. The second experience I had was in Bible School when Mrs. Verna C. Thayer used flannel graph to teach the Bible stories of the Old Testament. [Maybe the tools have changed but the teaching must still be accomplished! My third experience was when my Sunday School Teacher, Walcie Kirkpatrick, made me learn the Beatitudes and the Ten Commandments. She drilled me after the all day meeting in the basement of the Holbrook Church of God. By the way, if it had not been for Walcie I would have never been in Oregon Bible College. The fourth experience I had was when I was in Oregon Bible College and Brother Harold Doan taught the doctrine class. It was His simple method of teaching that emulated with me and I really fell in love with the Church of God Bible Teachings in that class. I still have his class notes and have used them from time to time. I understand that everyone learns differently and different methods touch them. I am afraid that there are too many Sunday school classes and Berean Classes where the Friday or Saturday night football game is discussed instead of the Word of God. I believe we have to cause our students to Fall in Love with the Word of God. From my experiences above I have created a booklet that I have updated and re-printed many times entitled: Ye Shall Know The Truth and The Truth Shall Make You Free. I have taught that booklet in every church that I have pastored, every State Conference that I have attended and every National Camp that I was a privilege to be a part of. I only pray that God will give an increase to the teaching of the Word of God. but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame 1 Peter 3:15, 16, NRSV. Page 19

Christian Disciple
By Steve Katsaras The word "disciple" appears in 27 verses throughout the NT. It is the Greek word mathetes which means "as one who directs his mind to something; learner, pupil." The gospel records indicate that Jesus, throughout his time in Israel, had disciples. Wherever he went, they followed him (Matt 5:1, 8:23, 9:19). They were always seen in the company of their teacher (Matt 9:10 - 11). They desired to be taught (Matt 13:36) and in return, Jesus was interested in their conclusions of his identity (Matt 16:13). A disciple is a pupil, a student; one who is a learner, who learns - and in order to do that, one must require a teacher. We are all familiar with the "student/teacher" concept (in education) and the Bible is no different. Concerning this relationship, Jesus said, "A disciple is not above his teacher..." - Matt 10:24 "It is enough for the disciple that he become as his teacher..." - Matt 10:25 A pupil is not "above and beyond" their teacher. If that were so, there would be no need to be a pupil nor have a teacher. But in being a disciple, one is acknowledging that they are in need of learning and require a teacher "over" them. This is what Christianity is about. We all are in need of learning - learning about the one God, His human Messiah and the gospel of the coming kingdom. Jesus is that teacher who taught and can teach these doctrines. Hence why he accumulated disciples and has been and is so today. In Luke's gospel, he rendered Jesus' word as such, "A pupil is not above his teacher; but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher." - Luk 6:40 Page 20

Christian discipleship is not simply about accepting the views of a teacher; it's about becoming like the C teacher. Luke says, "after he has been fully trained" - those words in the Greek katirtismenos mean "to make someone completely adequate or sufficient; to thoroughly prepare someone to meet the demands." I ask you: what is the end-goal to Christian discipleship? Is it to *only* know what Jesus knows or, in addition, to become like Jesus was/is. Is this what your discipleship consists of? A Christian disciple, a biblically defined disciple, is an adherent, both in word and deed. It was not just Jesus who possessed disciples. John the Baptist did (Matt 9:14; Luk 7:18; Joh 3:25), the Pharisees did (Matt 22:15 - 16) - even Moses did (Joh 9:28). Many of these people who became pupils under these teachers observed their doctrines and practices. Jesus had many disciples. The apostles were once (Luk 6:13 - 16); in addition, he had a great number of disciples that followed him (Luk 6:17). Joseph of Arimathea was one (Matt 27:57); following his resurrection, as the church began to grow, the Bible highlights certain individuals - Ananias in Damascus (Act 9:10); Saul of Tarsus (Act 9:26); Tabitha of Joppa (Act 9:36); Timothy of Lystra (Act 16:1); Mnason of Cyprus (Act 21:16). As a matter of fact, the church of Jesus Christ is comprised of disciples (Act 6:1 - 2). Luke notes, that, as the gospel kept on spreading, more people were being made disciples (Act 6:7). Herein is the key to Christian discipleship - a commitment to the expounding of the gospel and its doctrines. This was the great commission Jesus left his disciples, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations..." - Matt 28:19 "teaching them to observe all that I commanded you..." - Matt 28:20 This discipleship is/should not be confined within the walls of our church building and/or fellowship and/or our denomination and/or our religion/faith - our target ought to be the nations. We must be ready and willing to participate in the discipleship of all peoples, across the globe - with whomever may be willing to listen and obey. In the 1st Century, there were many diligent men who participated in this. Most of the known world at that time, in many towns and villages, had a church presence. One such city was Antioch. In this city, a church had been planted and there was a commitment to doctrine. It was here that Paul and Barnabas were found, developing disciples (Act 11:25 - 26). It was here that the word "Christian" was coined for a disciple of Jesus. This word in the Greek is christianos which means "a follower of Christ." The word "follower" coming from the word "follow" in the Greek isakouloutheo which means "to hear and go along behind." This is the essence of discipleship. To be a pupil unto a teacher, one must be willing to listen and obey. To talk the talk as the teacher and to walk the walk as the teacher. All throughout his ministry, Jesus' simple words were "Follow me" (Matt 4:19, 8:22, 9:9, 19:21; Joh 1:43, etc...). That is Jesus' call to be his disciple. We are called to be his disciples. Not disciples of a pastor, or preacher, or prophet, or apostle, or church or denomination - but a disciple of Jesus Christ. We are commanded to follow him, to listen to him, to align our spiritual compass with his and to allow him to be our teacher and example. Sadly, too many are disciples of a sect, or party, or a man - and not God's Messiah. Frederic Farrar, a cleric of the Chrurch of England said it well, that a disciple of Jesus Christ is "one who believes his doctrines, rests upon his sacrifice, imbibes his spirit, and imitates his example..." Page 21

Discipleship:
Learning, Understanding, Living Christ
JOHN 8:31 - If you abide in my word, you are my disciples indeed And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
By Russell Rankin
We have Abraham to our father. We have one Father -- God. To fellow sons of God, Jesus said, "If you have were Abraham's children, you would do the works of Abraham." And, "If God were your Father, you would love me; for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of myself, but He sent me. Why do you not understand my speech? Because you are not able to listen to my word." Jesus concluded, "He who is of God hears God's words; therefore you do not hear, because you are not of God" (synopsis of John 8). It was not enough to claim one's ethnic or religious heritage to be a disciple of Jesus. They who listened to Jesus' word listen to God's word. They hear and respond to Jesus' teaching and how he reasoned from God's word, and therefore to God's reasoning (John 1:1), to God's wisdom (Proverbs 8), and to God's gospel (Romans 1:1-7). Hearing and understanding God's words were the works of Abraham, because he "rejoiced to see my [Jesus'] day; and he saw it and was glad" (8:56). We have Jehovah the Father as did Abraham and we believe the gospel God preached to Abraham, "In you shall all nations be blessed," and all that entails, "the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus." We then are disciples of Christ. To the true sons of the living God (Romans 9-11) who believed Jesus said, "If you abide in my words, you are my disciples indeed." First, Jesus chose twelve disciples. He was their Teacher; they his pupils. After 3 1/2 years Jesus encouraged them, "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in me." That same night his disciples responded, "Now we are sure that you know all things, and have no need that anyone should question you. By this we believe that you came forth from God." Jesus' disciples had learned what Peter declared, "you are the Christ, the son of the living God." On this disciple's testimony Jesus built his church. This was the testimony of the early church, beginning on the day of Pentecost, "This Jesus of Nazareth.... God has made this Jesus...both Lord and Christ" (Acts 2:22-36). It was noted Page 22

by those around them, "that they had been with Jesus" (Acts 4:13). Later disciples' testimony proclaimed the same message, that Jesus is the son of God, God's appointed "Lord" over the church, and God's anointed to be king over all Israel and all the earth. We will so testify, if we wish to declare that we are disciples of Christ. A modern example of a discipleship: there is a Filipino man of the Kalinga tribe (head hunters) who had killed 9 people for sacrifices. He could neither read nor write. But when a man of peace came to his tribe, he listened intently to a new message, from a Bible he had not known. He heard this other Filipino, a minister of the Church of God of the Faith of Abraham, explain the gospel. He believed and was baptized. When his educated brother returned from college, he told him that God was a trinity. He responded, "I cannot read or write; but I know the truth. And it is the truth that sets us free." Twenty years later, his brother became a minister of the one God and His son, Jesus, preaching the gospel of God's kingdom, after having been baptized into the Church of God...of the Faith of Abraham. Who are Jesus' disciples? They are ones who hear Jesus' words, the words of his Father ( John 6: 12:46), and act based on what Jesus taught and reasoned from the Scriptures. Yes, they may be able to quote Scripture; they know their Bible. Yes, they might have even read the Bible many times (if they can read). But the key to being disciples is they have "the mind of Christ" (the reasoning behind Jesus' use of "logos/word"). The disciples of Christ are they of whom Jesus said, "[they] live by every word which proceeds out of the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). They "abide" in Jesus' word. This means disciples of Christ "no longer walk as the rest of the nations walk, in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart, who being past feeling, have given themselves over to lewdness, to work all uncleanness with greediness." They "have not so learned Christ." They become "imitators of God as dear children." They "walk in love, as Christ...an offering and sacrifice to God" and live in peace as examples of God's kingdom message (read all of Ephesians 4 and 5 with Romans 12 and 13). Early in his ministry Jesus taught, "A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is not enough for a disciple that he be like his teacher, and a servant like his master." [Paraphrased, if they did it to your teacher, how much more will they do it to his disciples]. "Therefore, do not fear them, for there is nothing that will not be revealed, and hidden thing that shall not be known." Jesus concluded his ministry with this personal comment to his closest disciples, You call me Lord and Teacher; and Page 23

you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher...blessed are you if you do...." and, "If you love me, keep my commandments" [that is, "abide in my words"]. Jesus added, "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you....You are my friends if you do whatever I command you." Jesus concluded with this prayer, "And I have declared to them Your Name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved me may be in them, and I in them" [Matthew10:24-25; John 13:13-17; 14:15; 15:14; 17:26). Therefore, we conclude as Paul concluded: "no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ" is where Jesus' disciples begin. Paul adds, "Now if anyone builds on this foundation..., each one's work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the Fire will test each one's work, of what kind it is. If anyone's work which he has built endures, he will receive a reward" (read 1 Corinthians 3:1-23). Again, Paul wrote to the church who later went into the Apostasy about whom he warned Timothy and John warned his disciples (1 Timothy 4:1-4; 1 John 2 and 4), "Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned [were discipled], and do not participate with them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple. For your obedience has become known to all. Therefore, I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen" (Romans 16:17-20). As disciples of Christ, we continue in the work Jesus commanded, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them...teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." We continue the admonition of Jesus' disciple Paul, "be strong in the favor that is in Jesus Christ, and the things you have heard from me among many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach [make disciples of] others also" (Matthew 28:19-20; 2 Timothy 2:1-2). Following Jesus' example, we commit to true discipleship: learning, understanding, and living Jesus' example and being examples of Christ to others also. Disciples of Christ teach there is only one God and Jesus is His son. We teach the Kingdom of God on the earth, that God will send His son, the man Jesus, back to reign 1000 years, and that Jehovah will come after that, after Jesus judges all men. We teach peace by example (Romans 12-13). We teach love like God loves, by example (1 Corinthians 13; John 4). We teach patience, by example (Job with James 5). We show that God is in us by His spirit, by living what the Spirit produces in us, removing the works of human nature from our lives as Paul taught in Galatians 5 and Ephesians 4-6. We live by faith like the faithful of old, as strangers in a world, not involved in its politics but obeying its governments while waiting for God's polity, His kingdom to come (Hebrews 11). We respond to persecution with patience, without retaliation (verbal or physical), committing our lives to God our Father, as did Jesus (1 Peter 2). Disciples of Jesus humble themselves "under the mighty hand of God, that He might exalt [us] at the proper time." We keep ourselves under control, watchful of events in the world around us, knowing full well that evil will increase and many disciples will lose their faith, fearful of standing separate for the truths which Jesus taught. But we recall the words of Jesus, "If you abide in my word, you are my disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." [note: translation is from the New King James (NKJV), some texts modified by the author for clarity] Page 24

Almost Persuaded
Jesus Had To Be Made Like His Brothers To Die For The Sins Of All Us Others
By Kermit Zarley
The biggest theological controversy in the history of the church has been whether or not Jesus is God. The institutional church doctrine of the Trinitythat God is three co-equal and co-eternal Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spiritemerged later as a subset of this controversy to escape the charge of worshipping two Gods: the Father and Jesus. Leading Trinitarian theologians who have written on these subjects in the past century list between five and nine New Testament texts which they think provide major support that Jesus is God, and one of them is Hebrews 1.8. It is an Old Testament (OT) quotation, and it says, But of the Son he [God] says, Your throne, O God, is forever and ever.[1] To understand this text, it helps to first grasp the overall theme of the book, whose author remains anonymous. The book of Hebrews was obviously written to Jews by an articulate Jewish believer in Jesus. Prior to the time of Jesus, Jews were known mostly as religious people who believed there is only one true and living God, which later became known as monotheism. Jews distinguished themselves by this belief because most people all around them believed in many gods/Gods and sons and daughters of gods/Gods, which is called polytheism. Their rich mythology was full of legends and stories about their gods/Gods. If the early Jewish Christians had believed Jesus was God, that would have been a bigger controversy in Israel than what the largely Gentile church later experienced about this subject. Thus, the author of Hebrews certainly did not intend to say Jesus is God. If he did, it would have been unconscionable not to try to prove it, and it is doubtful his book would have been accepted. Instead, the author of Hebrews makes it very clear what his purpose is for writing this book. It is to prove that Jesus is superior. In most of the book he tries to prove it. He says Jesus is superior to angels (Heb 1.42.18), Moses (3.1-19), and all priests (4.145.10; 7.19.28). Thus, it would have been superfluous for the author to so argue if he believed Jesus was God. In that case, he should have been giving reasons to prove that Jesus is God. The author of Hebrews begins his book by saying Jesus is the exact representation of his [Gods] being (Heb 1.3). The word representation translates charakter in the Greek text, from which we obviously derive our word character. He also says of God, in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe (v. 2). The author does not mean Jesus preexisted as God, but that when God made the universe he planned for Jesus to rule it. For Jesus to be the exact representation of God, he cannot be God. The author here means the same thing Jesus did when he said to his disciples Philip and Thomas, Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father (John 14.9). Did Jesus mean he was the Father? Not at all! The New Testament (NT) constantly distinguishes Jesus and God the Father as two separate persons, and so does Jesus. Instead, Jesus then explained what he meant by saying twice, I am in the Father, and (that) the Father is in me (vv. 10-11). This is called God-in-Christ Christology. God being in Christ is not the same as Christ being God. The author of Hebrews then says of Jesus atoning crucifixion death, After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels (Heb 1.4). The author refers to when Jesus ascended to heaven forty days after his resurrection and sat down at the right of God on Gods throne, called the session. Notice he says at that time Jesus became superior to the angels. But if Jesus was God, he already was superior to angels. Plus, the NTs repeated mention of Jesus session is often stated, as it is here, as if it was the first time he sat by God.

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In Heb 1.5-13, the author quotes six Old Testament (OT) texts to prove that Jesus is superior to angels. One of them he applies to Jesus says, Let all Gods angels worship him (v. 6). When we think of the word worship we usually think only God is deserving of it, so that this text would imply Jesus is God. But worship, here, translates proskuneo in the Greek text, which means bow down, bend the knee, or lie prostrate. So, proskuneo refers to a physical act, whereas we usually think of the word worship only as indicating an inner attitude. Thus, the author of Hebrews merely means here that the angels should bow down before Jesus, not that they should believe he is God. It is the same meaning Paul states in Phil 2.10-11 (cf. Isa 45.23), that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Throughout Hebrews, the author does much quoting of the OT. He quotes Ps 8.4-5, which says God made man inferior to angels, and applies it to Jesus by saying, You made him a little lower than the angels; you crowned him with glory and honor and put everything under his feet (Heb 2.7-8). But if Jesus was both God and man, he was not inferior to angels since a God-man is greater than them. (The last clause refers to Jesus session as stated in Ps 110.1. It says, The lord says to my Lord: Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet. Jesus enemies being made a footstool for his feet refer to his second coming as a warrior-king, which the remainder of the psalm makes clear.) Then the author of Hebrews writes, But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, now crowned with glory and honor because he suffered death (v. 9). So, Jesus being glorified and honored by God inviting him to sit with him on his heavenly throne is obviously a first-time experience. What is the reason for his being so honored? Not that hes God, but that he suffered death for others. The author of Hebrews next says of Jesus, it was fitting that God, should make the author of their salvation perfect through suffering (Heb 2.10). But if Jesus was God, he was already perfect so that he could not have been made perfect through suffering. Incidentally, the servant is not greater than his/her master. Since Jesus was a servant to God (Ac 3.13, 26; 4.27, 30; cf. Isa 52.13; 53.11), and Jesus suffered in obedience to God, God must also suffer. Christians who believe Jesus is God sometimes assert he had to be God to save us. But they are not able to offer any rationale for this argument or scriptural support for it. The truth is just the opposite. The author of Hebrews makes it clear that Jesus had to be man, and thus not God, to save us. He writes, Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers. He says, I will declare your name to my brothers. For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God (Heb 2.11-12, 17). But if Jesus was a God-man, he was not like other men. Then, how could any of them be his brothers? Rather, Jesus was human in every way except he was without sin. Finally, the author of Hebrews says of Jesus, Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted (Heb 2.18). And he soon adds, For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we areyet was without sin (4.15; cf. 7.26). All three synoptic gospels record that Jesus was genuinely tempted by Satan (Matt. 4.1-11; Mark 1.12-13; Luke 4.1-13). By being sinless, Jesus was qualified to go to the cross to bear our sins and thus become the Lamb of God who can save us. But if Jesus was tempted to sin just as we are, how could he have been God? For Jesus own brother in the flesh, James, writes, God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone (James 1.13).

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The Pine Woods Bible Class

By W. H. Wilson Editors note: Lesson Seven of the Pine Woods Bible class has been divided into sections. This is the final section of this chapter on Baptism. See previous issue for the other sections.

Teacher. Leaving the question of the mode of baptism for present, I would like to have the class dwell briefly upon its importance and design. Q. Is the matter of the importance of baptism, often underrated by those who are not properly informed upon the subject? A. Yes, it is. Q. In what way is it belittled? A. We are told that it is of no saving efficacy and as far as our salvation is concerned, it matters little as to whether you are baptized or not, it is looked upon merely as an initiatory ceremony into a church. Q. What value do the Scriptures place upon it? A. It is the official seal to the faith, covenant or contract, that all believers enter into. Q. What is the object of a seal? A. To make sure that to which the seal may be attached. Q. Give some instances. A. See Matt. xxvii. 66: They went and made the sepulcher sure, sealing the stone and setting the watch. Q. Please give another instance? A. See Dan. vi. 17: A stone was brought and laid upon the mouth of the den and the king sealed it with his own signet, and the signet of his lords; that the purpose might not be changed. Q. What, then, would be the design of a seal to the faith or covenant? A. That the purpose might not be changed. Q. The seal is an important part of the covenant, then, is it not? This is final part of lesson seven from the book The Pine Woods Bible Class by W.H. Wilson. They are the result of many years of careful and critical study, being an honest endeavor to arrive at a more accurate understanding of Holy Scripture, unbiased by the creeds and opinions of men. These lessons were prepared more especially for the instruction of YOUNG PEOPLE. An effort has been made to make the lessons very simple and plain. For more information on W.H. Wilson and the first lessons , see previous issues of the eHerald. Page 33Page 27

A. Very important. Q. Who was the original covenant? A. Abraham. Q. Did he as the party of the second part, seal the covenant? A. He did. Q. What was the seal? A. Circumcision. Q. Do the children of Abraham by faith; seal the covenant individually, as parties of the second part? A. They do. Q. What seal do they use? A. Circumcision also. The circumcision of Christ. Q. What is the proof that Abraham used circumcision as a seal of the faith? A. See Rom. iv. 11: And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith. Q. Was the seal affixed PRIOR to, or after the reception of the faith? A. After. Q. Give the evidence. A. See Rom. iv. 11: A seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had being yet circumcised. Q. For what purpose was this done? A. That he might be the father of all them that believe. Rom. iv. 11. Q. Believe what? A. Who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham. Rom. iv. 12. Q. Having ascertained what the Abrahamic faith and covenant is, how can we receive the benefits contained in the covenant? A. By becoming a party to the covenant. Q. How can we become a party? A. By entering into and sealing the covenant. Q. What is the seal? A. The act of circumcision? A. The circumcision of Christ. Q. What does the Bible say about that kind of circumcision? A. See Col. ii. 11, 12: In whom ye are circumcised with the circumcision made with hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ: buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. Q. What does the circumcision of Christ --- buried with him in baptism --- do for us? A. It puts off the body of the sins of the flesh. Q. That being the case, the Circumcision of Christ --- baptism --- is a very important matter after all, is it not? A. Yes. There is nothing of much greater importance. Q. Suppose we refuse to be thus circumcised, what will be the consequences? A. The burden of sin will sin remain. All such will continue to be uncircumcised Gentiles in the flesh. See Eph. ii. 11,12. Q. When the Jews were convicted of sin, at Pentecost, what were they told to do? A. Repent and be baptized circumcised --- every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins. Thus putting off the body of the sins of the flesh. Teacher. I will ask Lud this question, when do men seal the covenant and both parties agree to the terms of the covenant. Q. God made a covenant with Abraham, when did Abraham, as the party of the second part, attach the seal? A. After Abraham agreed to the terms of the covenant. Q. What was the sea?

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A. The sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith. Rom. iv. 11. Q. Does god offer to make this same covenant with us? A. He does. Q. Upon what terms? A. The same that he required of Abraham. Q. Does he require a seal from us? A. He does. Q. What is it? A. A seal of the righteousness of the faith, the circumcision of Christ: buried with him in baptism. Q. Did Jesus use the same seal that is required of all covenanters? A. He did. Q. Where do you find the record? A. In Matt. iii. 13-15. Q. Please read it. A. Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to FULFIL all righteousness. Q. Can you detect a similarity between the seals of Abraham and that of Christ? A. Yes. There should be. Q. Why should there be? A. Because they both confirm the same thing. Q. What do they confirm or make sure? A. The righteousness which results from the faith or the covenants of promise made unto Abraham and his see, the Christ. Q. What is the object of the seal? A. To confirm, make sure, establish, bring to completion, or fulfill that which the covenant promises. Q. What was circumcision to Abraham? A. A seal confirming or fulfilling the righteousness coming through the faith which he had prior to his circumcision? Q. What reason did Jesus give John as to why he should baptize him? A. Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness. Q. Through what act did Abraham bring righteousness to fulfillment? A. Circumcision. Q. Through what act did Jesus bring righteousness to fulfillment? A. Baptism. Q. Through what act do believers of the gospel of the Kingdom bring the fulfillment of righteousness? A. The circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of sins of the flesh BY the circumcision of Christ: BURIED with him in BAPTISM. Q. Was it part of the mission of Jesus to come as a confirmer or sealer? A. Yes, it was. Q. What does the Bible say about it? A. See Rom. xv. 8: Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to CONFIRM the promises made unto the fathers. Teacher. We have seen that the seal required in the obedience of faith, is The circumcision of Christ: buried with him in baptism. I will ask of what value is an unsealed covenant? It is of no effect.

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Q. Did you ever know of people who professed to be bonds of the covenant, who refused to affix the seal? A. I have. Q. What reason did they give for their refusal? A. Because they were previously baptized as a seal to a covenant which had no party of the first part to their contract, which supposed covenant, insured their supposed immortal souls a home in a sky-kingdom. Q. Are seals ever transferable from one contract to another? A. Never. Q. Is it not strange that intelligent people, in the name of religion, will act so foolish? A. Yes. It is almost amazing. Q. What will be the result, if such folly is persisted in? A. A. When the time arrives, to receive the things covenanted, they will find themselves disappointed, because no valid covenant has previously existed, between themselves, and God, as the party of the first part. Q. What four things are essential in order to secure the prize? A. 1. Lear the nature of the covenant, and the terms required, in order to become a party to it. 2. Enter into it as a party of the second part. 3. Affix the seal required. 4. Live strictly up to the agreement and keep inviolate all the terms of the covenant. Teacher. We have had quite a long lesson tonight, but I feel assured, a very profitable one, which will prove to be a help in the future, especially upon occasions when we shall be called upon to contend earnestly for the faith once delivered unto the saints. We are now dismissed.

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"Israel, the Pilgrims and Us"

By Kent Ross
It was almost 400 years ago, in 1620 when the Pilgrims left Europe seeking place to worship in freedom as they desired. They set sail across a cold, stormy and wintery Atlantic. Finally on Dec 21 they landed at Plymouth Rock That was a most difficult winter and many died. Those people who had so bravely sailed off, now had grown afraid and depressed. It seemed to them that they had left their homes to die in a strange land? Finally the winter broke and spring came. With it came warmer weather and fresh shoots and game became abundant and their spirits rose. They erected homes after living in rude shelters through that first winter season. Legends has it that the American Indians of the area, led by a Squanto, helped with their planting of crops, with the acquisition of game, and generally had a good relationship with them. The summer passed with sufficient rain and sunshine. Fall came and with it the harvest. There was a good abundance of their crops of grain, maize and gardens. Because of God's providential care, their hearts were lightened. They set a day aside of thanksgiving and worship to God for His providence. A day set aside officially by Washington and perpetuated by Lincoln. The first Thanksgiving Proclamation reads: Whereas, it is the duty of all nationals to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas, both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God . . .

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Now therefore do I recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the people of these states to the service of that Great and Glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be . . . And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the Great Lord and Ruler of Nations . . . and to beseech . . . to grant to all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows best. ~~George Washington We read in Exodus 14:3-14, of God's blessings on His people, Israel. But like those early Pilgrims on the American soil, God first chose to try Israel before bestowing His blessings. " For Pharaoh will say of the sons of Israel, They are wandering aimlessly in the land; the wilderness has shut them in. 4 Thus I will [a]harden Pharaohs heart, and he will chase after them; and I will be honored through Pharaoh and all his army, and the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD. And they did so. 5 When the king of Egypt was told that the people had fled ]Pharaoh and his servants had a change of heart toward the people, and they said, What is this we have done, that we have let Israel go from serving us?6 So he made his chariot ready and took his people with him; 7 and he took six hundred select chariots, and all the other chariots of Egypt with officers over all of them. 8 The LORD [c]hardened the heart of Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and he chased after the sons of Israel as the sons of Israel were going out boldly. 9 Then the Egyptians chased after them with all the horses and chariots of Pharaoh, his horsemen and his army, and they overtook them camping by the sea, beside Pi-hahiroth, in front of Baal-zephon.

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Pharaoh drew near, the sons of Israel looked, and behold, the Egyptians were marching after them, and they became very frightened; so the sons of Israel cried out to the LORD. 11 Then they said to Moses, Is it because there were no graves in Egypt that you have taken us away to die in the wilderness? Why have you dealt with us in this way, bringing us out of Egypt? 12 Is this not the word that we spoke to you in Egypt, saying, 'Leave us alone that we may serve the Egyptians? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the wilderness. 13 But Moses said to the people, Do not fear! Stand by and see the salvation of the LORD which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians whom you have seen today, you will never see them again forever. 14 The LORD will fight for you while you keep silent. " He called them to go out into the wilderness to better serve Him. They hadn't considered their situation of comfort, but when they were in the wilderness of Sinai, they became convinced that He had brought them out there to die. They cried out to Moses that they wanted to go back to Egypt. And so the Pilgrims too left their "comforts" and went out to find a place to better serve God. But Israel's momentary blessing and deliverance from the trials of Pharaoh's court and the fearsome "passover of the angel of death." Those were quickly forgotten as they faced the Red Sea to the east, and Pharaoh's thundering army of chariots coming toward them from the west. Of course, God once again miraculously delivered Israel. It ought to have been sufficient for them to remember and rejoice with a time of thanksgiving. But just as winter set in on the Pilgrims, Israel too had a period of doubt and fear Verses 11 and 12 of our text reveal their state of mind. The Pilgrims surely must have felt that way and worse when wives and husbands and children died. Eventually victory was theirs as Pharaoh's army was destroyed. Notice verses 13,14. God will not fail. He did not fail Israel. He also did not fail the Pilgrims. We, too, in His time, will see His deliverance.

10 As

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As winter set in on the Pilgrims, so came Springtime and Summer, and then Harvest, a reaping of rewards. So shall it be with our lives. We, too, are called, but like Israel, and even the Pilgrims, our call is to Come Out. 2 Corinthians 6:17 says, " Therefore, COME OUT FROM THEIR MIDST AND BE SEPARATE, says the Lord. AND DO NOT TOUCH WHAT IS UNCLEAN; And I will welcome you." So we, like they, feel called to a special way of life to serve God. Our study of His Word has brought us to understandings that many others have not come to understand. And so we also know there will also be moments of trial, or more than moments, sometimes much more. In 2 Timothy 3, we find Paul's appreciation of what is to come for followers of the Lord. It is what is to come in all generations, knowing as Paul wrote that in these last days "difficult times will come. Further in that same chapter, he left us this: " 10 Now you followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, perseverance, 11 persecutions, and sufferings, such as happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium and at Lystra; what persecutions I endured, and out of them all the Lord rescued me! 12 Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be 13 persecuted. But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14 You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them, 15 and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith 16 which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." You cannot expect to enjoy the harvest without laboring in the fields . . . fields that are difficult to cultivate, from which to bring crops for the Harvest. There will be periods of doubt and fear. Even the most dedicated Christians have moments of doubt Were so few against a whole world. What chance do we have? None . . . alone! But with Him there will be Victory.

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