| Volume Two, Number One |
Back To The Bible
_____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
Volume Two October 30, 2007 Number One
Back To The Bible is a quarterly evangelistic outreach for the expressed purpose of
helping people study the Bible. It is a work of the Belle church of Christ which is located
at the corner of 8th and Oak in Belle, Missouri. Editors of this publication are Jerry
McDonald and Thomas McDonald {We mourn the passing of our previous co-editor,
Ishmael Wilson}. We have two new things on our website ( http://www.bellecoc.com).
First we have an email discussion list where you can ask questions and get answers (all
answers will come from the KJV), and we also have Bible corresponding courses. You
can either mail them to our Post Office Box (P.O. Box 381, Belle, MO 65013), or email
them to bellecoc@bellecoc.com. Past issues of this publication can be found on our
website. We hope that we can be of service to you in the coming years
Service Times:
Sunday Morning Bible Study............................................................................9:30
Sunday Morning Worship...............................................................................10:30
Sunday Evening Worship..................................................................................6:00
Wednesday Evening Bible Study.......................................................................7:00
DO WE NEED ANYTHING MORE THAN THE BIBLE?
Thomas H. McDonald
I
n the world today we need to have something more than just one thing. People think
that they have got to have that Biggie Coca Cola with their meal or by that stereo sound
system to go with their plasma screen tv. But the thing that people really think they
have to add onto is the Bible. People think that they need more than just the Bible to
become Christians. Well today in this issue of Back To The Bible we will be looking at
whether or not we need anything else. So let’s take a look and find out what the Bible
says about this matter. (II Peter 1:3) says, “According as his divine power hath given us
all things which pertain to life and Godliness.” The Divine Power is referred to as the
Word of God, the Gospel of Christ which is “The power of God unto salvation” (Romans
1:16). We need nothing more than Gods word with this being the case. One of the
reasons that Paul was so adamant about preaching the Gospel of Christ was because he
knew it was the only way to become a Christian and make it to Heaven. Paul told the
Church in Corinth, “I determine not to know anything among you save Jesus Christ
and him crucified” (1 Cor. 2:2). He also wrote, “For the preaching of the cross is unto
them that perish foolishness, but unto us which are saved, it is the power or God” (1 Cor.
1:18). Paul believed that by preaching about Jesus Christ and his crucifixion was the way
to bring people to God. I hope that you will read these articles and learn the word of
God. I believe that those who read these articles will come to the conclusion that the
Bible teaches us that all we need is the Bible. Miracles do not exist today so they cannot
help us. Gods word can though. His word can get us to Heaven. Thank you. 33036 Hwy
E., Dixon, MO 65459, thmcdonald10@hotmail.com.
THE ALL SUFFICIENCY OF THE BIBLE
Larry Yarber
W
e live in a unique time. Many are surprised to learn that before the Christian age. God’s
scheme of redemption was not know to mankind. The New Testament writers referred to
this plan of salvation as “the hidden wisdom” (1 Corinthians 2:7) “which was kept secret
since the world began” (Romans 16:25) and, “which from the beginning of the world hath
been hid in God” (Ephesians 3:9). Furthermore, Paul wrote to the Corinthians about this
mystery saying, “which none of the princes of this world knew” and, “ye hath not seen,
nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath
prepared for them that love him” (1 Corinthians 2:8-9). Then, to those at Ephesus,
“which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men” (Ephesians 3:5). Peter
said it had not even been revealed to the prophets of old, nor the angelic beings, “of
which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently...unto whom it whom
it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things,
which are now reported unto youYwhich things the angels desire to look into” (1 Peter 1:
10-12). The scheme of redemption was safely tucked away in the mind of God and in the
partial revelation of the Old Testament. This was necessary for had they known it, “they
would not have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Corinthians 2:8).
Today that mystery has been revealed and made known to all through the Spirit. To
those at Rome Paul wrote, “according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept
secret since the world began, but now is made manifest” (Romans 16:25-26). To the
Corinthians he penned, “but God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit” and, “now we
have received not the Spirit of the world but the Spirit which is of God; that we might
know the things which are freely given to us of God” (1 Corinthians 2:10-12). Then
finally, to the Ephesians he said, “How that by revelation he made known unto me the
mystery; (As I wrote afore in a few words, whereby, when ye read, ye may understand
my knowledge in; the mystery of Christ) as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and
prophets by the Spirit” (Ephesians 3:3-5). In this last dispensation of time that revelation
has been delivered unto man. As Jude said “...contend for the faith which was once
delivered unto the saints” (Jude v3). It is found in the inspired writings of those apostles
and prophets, the Bible (Ephesians 3:1-5 and 2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Paul told those at Corinth when the complete revelation was come prophecy would
end, “...whether there be prophecies, they shall fail...whether there be knowledge, it
shall vanish away...but when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part
shall be done away” (1 Corinthians 13:8-10). Remember, Old Testament revelation was
in part therefore during Old Testament prophecy, the scheme of redemption remained a
mystery. New Testament prophecy, on the other hand, is complete revelation. So, once
given, there would be nothing left to reveal. James said we now have this complete
(perfect) and final revelation in the New Testament, “But whoso looketh into the perfect
law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the
work, this man shall be blessed in his deed” (James 1:25). Since we now have that final
and complete revelation there is nothing left to reveal. Prophecy has come to an end.
And with it, the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit. The purpose of those gifts was to
confirm the message and the messenger, “...and was confirmed unto us by them that
heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers
miracles, and gifts to the Holy Ghost, according to his own will” (Heb 2:1-4). Because the
message and the messengers have been confirmed, and there is no further mystery left
to reveal, there is no longer a need for any more revelation or confirmation. Both
prophecy and confirmation (miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit) have come to an end.
Man is a free moral agent. God has never forced anyone to obey or disobey. Joshua
challenged those of his day, “...choose you this day whom ye will serve...” (Joshua 24:15).
The work of the Holy Spirit was not to force or to hinder man’s obedience. He was sent
to reveal all truth, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into
all truth...” (John 16: 13). He was to reveal God’s final and complete revelation to man.
Then he was to confirm the divine origin of the message by granting the messenger the
ability to perform signs, wonders, and miracles (Hebrews 2:1-4). Even in the age of the
miraculous the Spirit never forced the messenger to obey or disobey God. That was the
messengers own choice. The spirit of the prophet was subject to himself, “And the spirits
of the prophets are subject to the prophets” (1 Corinthians 14:32). The prophet could
speak or refrain from speaking, “If anything be revealed to another that sitteth by, let
the first hold his peace” (1 Corinthians 14:30). Jonah refused to speak when the Lord
first told him to go preach to Nineveh (Jonah 1:1-3). Of course, he later repented and
went. However, when a person chose to obediently speak, it was God who spoke through
them (2 Peter 1:19-21). Thus, the work of the Spirit was to reveal and to confirm God’s
word. It is man’s obligation to accept and obey it.
The New Testament is God’s final and complete revelation to man. It contains all
things which pertain to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). Therefore, it is all sufficient. We
need nothing more. Paul said, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is
profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That
the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:
16-17). And, “...if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received,
let him be accursed” (Galatians 1:9). The scriptures have been given that we might obey,
“But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the
commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of
faith” (Romans 16:26). Have you obeyed God according to these scriptures–The New
Testament? 2523 Oak Ridge Dr., Mountain Grove, MO 65711 larryyarber@centurytel.
net.
THE ALL-SUFFICIENCY OF THE SCRIPTURES
Charles Coats
W
ebster’s II New College Dictionary defines sufficient as “that is enough; adequate.” It
comes from a root word that means “to suffice.” When we think of sufficient, we know
that whatever it is it satisfies the needs at that time.
In our every day lives, we find many things which are sufficient during certain
situations. We normally think of it as this is all I need at this time. However, for us,
times and circumstances change, thus there becomes a need for something else to fill
our need. As we know, there is nothing that the world has to offer that is totally
sufficient. That is, this thing supplies all of our needs all of the time.
In this article, we are stating that there is something that is all-sufficient. This
something never fails us, and supplies what we need to help us through life. What is this
something? Is it a new wonder drug? Did somebody actually invent something that
could supply our every need? No, this something is not from man, but it is from the
Great Creator B it is his word, the Holy Bible.
The Bible makes the claim to being all-sufficient. “According as his divine power
hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge
of him that hath called us to glory and virtue” (2 Peter 1:3). In this, the inspired writer
teaches us that God has given us all that we need for life and godliness.
The word of God is truth (John 17:17), and if we obey the truth, we shall be set free
from sin (John 8:31,32). What other book upon Earth can give us this kind of freedom?
Peter recognized this so long ago when he responded to Jesus by saying, “...Lord, to
whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe, and are sure
that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God” (Jn. 6:68,69).
The Bereans searched the Scriptures daily to make certain that what they were
taught was true (Acts 17:11). They knew the answers for all they needed were found in
God’s Holy Word. The Thessalonians received it as it was in truth, the word of God (1
Thessalonians 2:13). They rejected the idea that it was just the writing of men, but knew
they had available to them that which would save their souls (1 Peter 1:23).
It is the word that endures forever (1 Peter 1:25). No other book has withstood the
test of time. Skeptics have berated it; atheists have denied it; and many have rejected
its teachings, but it has endured. None can show it to be false, and even those who deny
it have to admit its power. It is the life changing book.
What does the Bible teach us? It teaches us about our Savior (Matthew, Mark,
Luke, and John). It teaches us about the church (Acts 2). It teaches us to control the
tongue (James 3); to not be prejudiced (James 2); how to truly love one another (John 15:
13); how to treat one another (Ephesians 4:14-32); how to help (Continued on page 4)
ALL SUFFICIENCY OF THE SCRIPTURES CONTINUED...one another (Galatians 6:10);
and, how to have a godly home (Ephesians 5:22-33; 1 Peter 3:1-7). It shows us the
various roles we have in life that help others (Titus 2), and teaches us patience (James 5:
7-11). It gives us great examples of faith (Hebrews 11), and what it really means to give
(Luke 21:1-4).
It teaches us how not to act (1 Corinthians 10:6) and what things we are to put away
and how to live (Titus 2:12,13). It shows us where our hope lies–in God who cannot lie
(Hebrews 6:18-20). And, it teaches us to not be vengeful (1 Peter 3:8; Romans 12:19-
21). It is the greatest book ever written because it is the word of God (2 Timothy 3:16).
Thousands upon thousands of books have been written, and if the world continues
to stand, thousands more will be written. All will come and go, and none will stand the
test of time. Yet, when all of these books have faded away, the Holy Bible will still be
standing, still doing what God has always intended it to do –“And that from a child thou
hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation
through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15, emphasis mine, C.C.)
The Psalmist said it best, “Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for
they are the rejoicing of my heart” (Psalm 119:111). 4514 Grand River East,
Webberville, MI 48892 clcoats@cablespeed.com
“...ALL THINGS THAT PERTAIN TO LIFE AND GODLINESS...”
Jerry D. McDonald
P
eter penned these words to let his readers know that God has given us everything that
we need to live this life and be Godly. Some ridicule the Bible because they say that it is
outdated and does not apply to people any more. They argue that we have issues facing
us (such as abortion, embryonic stem cell research, etc.) which are not covered by the
Bible. However, if one reads the Bible one should be able to see, that even though these
specific issues did not confront the people at that time, there are principles and
mandates that do apply to these things.
In Exodus 20:13 the Bible says “thou shalt not kill.” Jesus translated the word
“kill” as “murder” (Mt. 19:18). What is abortion if it is not murder? What is embryonic
stem cell research if it is not murder? The Bible is there to answer each and every
question that we might have to live a Godly life and get to heaven. It teaches men how
to treat their wives (Eph. 5:23,25,28,29), it teaches wives how to love their husbands (Tit.
2:2-4). It teaches wives to be in submission to their husbands (Eph. 5:22), and men this
does not mean that the wife is a footstool. She was not taken from his head that she
might rule, nor from his feet that she might be trampled on, but from his side that she
might be a help that is suitable for him (Gen. 2:18). It teaches children to obey their
parents in the Lord (Eph. 6:1). It teaches us to be honest in all things (Rom. 12:17). It
teaches us to do unto others as we would have them do unto us (Mt. 7:12). It teaches us
not to think of men above that which is written (1 Cor. 4:6). It teaches us to dress
modestly (women are specified, but men are included), and it teaches us everything that
we need to know. The Bible is all we need. P.O. Box 237, Belle, MO 65013,
jerry@challenge2.org
______________________________________________________________________________
__________
Back To The Bible
P.O. Box 381
Belle, MO 65013
POSTAL CUSTOMER
Belle, Missouri 65013
_____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
Volume Two October 30, 2007 Number One
Back To The Bible is a quarterly evangelistic outreach for the expressed purpose of
helping people study the Bible. It is a work of the Belle church of Christ which is located
at the corner of 8th and Oak in Belle, Missouri. Editors of this publication are Jerry
McDonald and Thomas McDonald {We mourn the passing of our previous co-editor,
Ishmael Wilson}. We have two new things on our website ( http://www.bellecoc.com).
First we have an email discussion list where you can ask questions and get answers (all
answers will come from the KJV), and we also have Bible corresponding courses. You
can either mail them to our Post Office Box (P.O. Box 381, Belle, MO 65013), or email
them to bellecoc@bellecoc.com. Past issues of this publication can be found on our
website. We hope that we can be of service to you in the coming years
Service Times:
Sunday Morning Bible Study............................................................................9:30
Sunday Morning Worship...............................................................................10:30
Sunday Evening Worship..................................................................................6:00
Wednesday Evening Bible Study.......................................................................7:00
DO WE NEED ANYTHING MORE THAN THE BIBLE?
Thomas H. McDonald
I
n the world today we need to have something more than just one thing. People think
that they have got to have that Biggie Coca Cola with their meal or by that stereo sound
system to go with their plasma screen tv. But the thing that people really think they
have to add onto is the Bible. People think that they need more than just the Bible to
become Christians. Well today in this issue of Back To The Bible we will be looking at
whether or not we need anything else. So let’s take a look and find out what the Bible
says about this matter. (II Peter 1:3) says, “According as his divine power hath given us
all things which pertain to life and Godliness.” The Divine Power is referred to as the
Word of God, the Gospel of Christ which is “The power of God unto salvation” (Romans
1:16). We need nothing more than Gods word with this being the case. One of the
reasons that Paul was so adamant about preaching the Gospel of Christ was because he
knew it was the only way to become a Christian and make it to Heaven. Paul told the
Church in Corinth, “I determine not to know anything among you save Jesus Christ
and him crucified” (1 Cor. 2:2). He also wrote, “For the preaching of the cross is unto
them that perish foolishness, but unto us which are saved, it is the power or God” (1 Cor.
1:18). Paul believed that by preaching about Jesus Christ and his crucifixion was the way
to bring people to God. I hope that you will read these articles and learn the word of
God. I believe that those who read these articles will come to the conclusion that the
Bible teaches us that all we need is the Bible. Miracles do not exist today so they cannot
help us. Gods word can though. His word can get us to Heaven. Thank you. 33036 Hwy
E., Dixon, MO 65459, thmcdonald10@hotmail.com.
THE ALL SUFFICIENCY OF THE BIBLE
Larry Yarber
W
e live in a unique time. Many are surprised to learn that before the Christian age. God’s
scheme of redemption was not know to mankind. The New Testament writers referred to
this plan of salvation as “the hidden wisdom” (1 Corinthians 2:7) “which was kept secret
since the world began” (Romans 16:25) and, “which from the beginning of the world hath
been hid in God” (Ephesians 3:9). Furthermore, Paul wrote to the Corinthians about this
mystery saying, “which none of the princes of this world knew” and, “ye hath not seen,
nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath
prepared for them that love him” (1 Corinthians 2:8-9). Then, to those at Ephesus,
“which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men” (Ephesians 3:5). Peter
said it had not even been revealed to the prophets of old, nor the angelic beings, “of
which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently...unto whom it whom
it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things,
which are now reported unto youYwhich things the angels desire to look into” (1 Peter 1:
10-12). The scheme of redemption was safely tucked away in the mind of God and in the
partial revelation of the Old Testament. This was necessary for had they known it, “they
would not have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Corinthians 2:8).
Today that mystery has been revealed and made known to all through the Spirit. To
those at Rome Paul wrote, “according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept
secret since the world began, but now is made manifest” (Romans 16:25-26). To the
Corinthians he penned, “but God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit” and, “now we
have received not the Spirit of the world but the Spirit which is of God; that we might
know the things which are freely given to us of God” (1 Corinthians 2:10-12). Then
finally, to the Ephesians he said, “How that by revelation he made known unto me the
mystery; (As I wrote afore in a few words, whereby, when ye read, ye may understand
my knowledge in; the mystery of Christ) as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and
prophets by the Spirit” (Ephesians 3:3-5). In this last dispensation of time that revelation
has been delivered unto man. As Jude said “...contend for the faith which was once
delivered unto the saints” (Jude v3). It is found in the inspired writings of those apostles
and prophets, the Bible (Ephesians 3:1-5 and 2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Paul told those at Corinth when the complete revelation was come prophecy would
end, “...whether there be prophecies, they shall fail...whether there be knowledge, it
shall vanish away...but when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part
shall be done away” (1 Corinthians 13:8-10). Remember, Old Testament revelation was
in part therefore during Old Testament prophecy, the scheme of redemption remained a
mystery. New Testament prophecy, on the other hand, is complete revelation. So, once
given, there would be nothing left to reveal. James said we now have this complete
(perfect) and final revelation in the New Testament, “But whoso looketh into the perfect
law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the
work, this man shall be blessed in his deed” (James 1:25). Since we now have that final
and complete revelation there is nothing left to reveal. Prophecy has come to an end.
And with it, the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit. The purpose of those gifts was to
confirm the message and the messenger, “...and was confirmed unto us by them that
heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers
miracles, and gifts to the Holy Ghost, according to his own will” (Heb 2:1-4). Because the
message and the messengers have been confirmed, and there is no further mystery left
to reveal, there is no longer a need for any more revelation or confirmation. Both
prophecy and confirmation (miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit) have come to an end.
Man is a free moral agent. God has never forced anyone to obey or disobey. Joshua
challenged those of his day, “...choose you this day whom ye will serve...” (Joshua 24:15).
The work of the Holy Spirit was not to force or to hinder man’s obedience. He was sent
to reveal all truth, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into
all truth...” (John 16: 13). He was to reveal God’s final and complete revelation to man.
Then he was to confirm the divine origin of the message by granting the messenger the
ability to perform signs, wonders, and miracles (Hebrews 2:1-4). Even in the age of the
miraculous the Spirit never forced the messenger to obey or disobey God. That was the
messengers own choice. The spirit of the prophet was subject to himself, “And the spirits
of the prophets are subject to the prophets” (1 Corinthians 14:32). The prophet could
speak or refrain from speaking, “If anything be revealed to another that sitteth by, let
the first hold his peace” (1 Corinthians 14:30). Jonah refused to speak when the Lord
first told him to go preach to Nineveh (Jonah 1:1-3). Of course, he later repented and
went. However, when a person chose to obediently speak, it was God who spoke through
them (2 Peter 1:19-21). Thus, the work of the Spirit was to reveal and to confirm God’s
word. It is man’s obligation to accept and obey it.
The New Testament is God’s final and complete revelation to man. It contains all
things which pertain to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). Therefore, it is all sufficient. We
need nothing more. Paul said, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is
profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That
the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:
16-17). And, “...if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received,
let him be accursed” (Galatians 1:9). The scriptures have been given that we might obey,
“But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the
commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of
faith” (Romans 16:26). Have you obeyed God according to these scriptures–The New
Testament? 2523 Oak Ridge Dr., Mountain Grove, MO 65711 larryyarber@centurytel.
net.
THE ALL-SUFFICIENCY OF THE SCRIPTURES
Charles Coats
W
ebster’s II New College Dictionary defines sufficient as “that is enough; adequate.” It
comes from a root word that means “to suffice.” When we think of sufficient, we know
that whatever it is it satisfies the needs at that time.
In our every day lives, we find many things which are sufficient during certain
situations. We normally think of it as this is all I need at this time. However, for us,
times and circumstances change, thus there becomes a need for something else to fill
our need. As we know, there is nothing that the world has to offer that is totally
sufficient. That is, this thing supplies all of our needs all of the time.
In this article, we are stating that there is something that is all-sufficient. This
something never fails us, and supplies what we need to help us through life. What is this
something? Is it a new wonder drug? Did somebody actually invent something that
could supply our every need? No, this something is not from man, but it is from the
Great Creator B it is his word, the Holy Bible.
The Bible makes the claim to being all-sufficient. “According as his divine power
hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge
of him that hath called us to glory and virtue” (2 Peter 1:3). In this, the inspired writer
teaches us that God has given us all that we need for life and godliness.
The word of God is truth (John 17:17), and if we obey the truth, we shall be set free
from sin (John 8:31,32). What other book upon Earth can give us this kind of freedom?
Peter recognized this so long ago when he responded to Jesus by saying, “...Lord, to
whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe, and are sure
that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God” (Jn. 6:68,69).
The Bereans searched the Scriptures daily to make certain that what they were
taught was true (Acts 17:11). They knew the answers for all they needed were found in
God’s Holy Word. The Thessalonians received it as it was in truth, the word of God (1
Thessalonians 2:13). They rejected the idea that it was just the writing of men, but knew
they had available to them that which would save their souls (1 Peter 1:23).
It is the word that endures forever (1 Peter 1:25). No other book has withstood the
test of time. Skeptics have berated it; atheists have denied it; and many have rejected
its teachings, but it has endured. None can show it to be false, and even those who deny
it have to admit its power. It is the life changing book.
What does the Bible teach us? It teaches us about our Savior (Matthew, Mark,
Luke, and John). It teaches us about the church (Acts 2). It teaches us to control the
tongue (James 3); to not be prejudiced (James 2); how to truly love one another (John 15:
13); how to treat one another (Ephesians 4:14-32); how to help (Continued on page 4)
ALL SUFFICIENCY OF THE SCRIPTURES CONTINUED...one another (Galatians 6:10);
and, how to have a godly home (Ephesians 5:22-33; 1 Peter 3:1-7). It shows us the
various roles we have in life that help others (Titus 2), and teaches us patience (James 5:
7-11). It gives us great examples of faith (Hebrews 11), and what it really means to give
(Luke 21:1-4).
It teaches us how not to act (1 Corinthians 10:6) and what things we are to put away
and how to live (Titus 2:12,13). It shows us where our hope lies–in God who cannot lie
(Hebrews 6:18-20). And, it teaches us to not be vengeful (1 Peter 3:8; Romans 12:19-
21). It is the greatest book ever written because it is the word of God (2 Timothy 3:16).
Thousands upon thousands of books have been written, and if the world continues
to stand, thousands more will be written. All will come and go, and none will stand the
test of time. Yet, when all of these books have faded away, the Holy Bible will still be
standing, still doing what God has always intended it to do –“And that from a child thou
hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation
through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15, emphasis mine, C.C.)
The Psalmist said it best, “Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for
they are the rejoicing of my heart” (Psalm 119:111). 4514 Grand River East,
Webberville, MI 48892 clcoats@cablespeed.com
“...ALL THINGS THAT PERTAIN TO LIFE AND GODLINESS...”
Jerry D. McDonald
P
eter penned these words to let his readers know that God has given us everything that
we need to live this life and be Godly. Some ridicule the Bible because they say that it is
outdated and does not apply to people any more. They argue that we have issues facing
us (such as abortion, embryonic stem cell research, etc.) which are not covered by the
Bible. However, if one reads the Bible one should be able to see, that even though these
specific issues did not confront the people at that time, there are principles and
mandates that do apply to these things.
In Exodus 20:13 the Bible says “thou shalt not kill.” Jesus translated the word
“kill” as “murder” (Mt. 19:18). What is abortion if it is not murder? What is embryonic
stem cell research if it is not murder? The Bible is there to answer each and every
question that we might have to live a Godly life and get to heaven. It teaches men how
to treat their wives (Eph. 5:23,25,28,29), it teaches wives how to love their husbands (Tit.
2:2-4). It teaches wives to be in submission to their husbands (Eph. 5:22), and men this
does not mean that the wife is a footstool. She was not taken from his head that she
might rule, nor from his feet that she might be trampled on, but from his side that she
might be a help that is suitable for him (Gen. 2:18). It teaches children to obey their
parents in the Lord (Eph. 6:1). It teaches us to be honest in all things (Rom. 12:17). It
teaches us to do unto others as we would have them do unto us (Mt. 7:12). It teaches us
not to think of men above that which is written (1 Cor. 4:6). It teaches us to dress
modestly (women are specified, but men are included), and it teaches us everything that
we need to know. The Bible is all we need. P.O. Box 237, Belle, MO 65013,
jerry@challenge2.org
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P.O. Box 381
Belle, MO 65013
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Belle, Missouri 65013
| "Sanctify them through thy trut thy word is truth" (Jno. 17:17). bellecoc@bellecoc.com |
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