ARE THERE MIRACLES STILL BEING PERFORMED TODAY?

We recognize the miracles recorded in the Bible as being genuine supernatural happenings.  These include the virgin birth of Jesus the Christ, raising the dead, instantaneous healing of the sick, speaking in foreign languages fluently in which they had not studied before speaking it, and there are many other miracles recorded in the Bible that are too numerous to list here.  A miracle is an effect in the physical world brought about by a supernatural act by the will of God.  It is when the natural physical laws are superceded by a supernatural act.  Not all wonders and unknown events can correctly be called a miracle.  Many times when a person is critically ill, they suddenly begin to improve and soon recover to a fairly normal state of health.  There are those who are prone to say, “That’s a miracle!”  But, the truth of the matter is, that no natural law was superceded.  Instead, several things in the natural realm may have combined in causing the person’s health to improve.  These could include medication and medical care, their natural immune system, their psychic (which included a strong will to live), and the providence of God in answer to prayers for the individual’s physical wellbeing.  [We will discuss the providence of God in a separate article.]

The marvel of a human baby coming into existence is often referred to as a miracle.  The virgin birth of Jesus was indeed a miracle because no human male was involved in the begettal.  “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise:  When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 1:18).  All births since Biblical times are brought about by the natural laws of procreation.

The primary purposes of miracles have been fulfilled.  These purposes were two-fold, they are:  (1) to provided the complete revelation of God (John 14:26; 16:13); and (2) to provide the inspired men credentials (their proof) as being messengers of God (Hebrews 2:1-4).  The healing of the sick, raising the dead, etc. were by-products of the miracles rather than the primary purpose of them.  Since we have the full revelation of the Heavenly Father, the era of miracles has already past (1 Cur. 13:8-10; Eph. 4:11-15; Jude 3).  The inspired writers of the New Testament forewarned that there will be false apostles and prophets (1 John 4:1; 2 Cur. 11:13-15; Rev. 2:2).

–Dub Mowery

BLESSED ASSURANCE

For the faithful child of God, the scriptures provide us the assurance of being in a saved state. The Apostle Paul had this assurance! He said, “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing” (2 Tim. 4:6-8). He expressed this same conviction concerning his assurance of eternal life at Philippians 1:21-24. The Son of God provided this assurance unto His disciples. He said unto them, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (John 14:1-3).

In reading through the book of First John, the beloved apostle uses the term “know” in its various forms several times. The Apostle John is giving Christians reason to have assurance of being in a saved state. Question: does he use such terminology as, “just accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior” or “all you have to do to have the assurance is to acknowledge Jesus as being the Son of God”? The answer is: NO! Then how did the Apostle John declare how a person can have the blessed assurance in knowing that, as a child of God, we are in covenant relationship with the Lord? Here is what he declared by inspiration, “And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him” (I John 2:3-5). An analysis of that passage plainly points out that only those who keep the Lord’s commandments know Him. The Greek word ginosko translated as know three times in the above passage carries the meaning “to know, understand, perceive, have knowledge of.” In the above context it carries a deeper meaning than simply acknowledging the truth of the Lord’s existence. It was Jesus Himself who said, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matt. 7:21-23). The essentiality of obeying the commandments of the Lord in order to have the assurance of being in a saved state is so stated in the following passages. At Hebrews 5:8-9, the inspired writer in referring unto Christ wrote: “Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;” In the closing of the pages of the Bible, the Apostle John said, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city” (Rev. 22:14). Thus, the assurance of eternal life is given only to those who faithfully obey the Lord’s commandments.

When I was baptized almost 48 years ago, there was consolation in knowing that every sin in which I had committed had been washed away by the blood of Christ. At that moment and for some time after that, I had the conviction, based upon the Word of God that if my life was taken Heaven would be my home. It was not some “better-felt-than-told” feeling, but rather based upon my scriptural baptism (Mk. 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; etc.). However, there is not a day that goes forth, but that I pray for forgiveness. The Apostle John warns us about thinking that we are above sinning (I John 1:8-10). Nevertheless, we can have the assurance at a given period of time in our life that we are in a saved state. Again, this is not based upon a “better-felt-than-told” feeling, but in relation to our living in harmony with the inspired Word. It is in this way and only in this way, that the Holy Spirit bears witness with our spirit (Rom. 8:16). The Holy Spirit does not act upon our spirit in a supernatural way to cause us to have that assurance. Nor does He communicate with us except by way of the inspired Word of God, the Bible. It is only when we abide by the inspired Word given by the Holy Spirit do we have reason to have the consolation of knowing that we are in a saved state at any given moment or time. For example: when we learn from the New Testament that baptism is for the remission of our sins, and we then are baptized for that purpose then the Holy Spirit and our own spirit are in agreement. In other words, our action is in harmony with the inspired Word written by the apostles and other inspired men of the first century. Also, as a child of God, we know that when we sin by either commission or omission that we are in a lost state and therefore do not have that assurance. If we repent, acknowledge our sin, and then pray for forgiveness then we can regain that assurance (Acts 8:18-24; James 5:16; I John 1:9).

If a brother or sister in Christ has sinned then he or she needs to in penitence acknowledge their sin and ask the Heavenly Father to forgive them. Also, if a child of God is troubled or concerned about matters of stress, personal problems, anxiety, or sickness, then that person needs to turn to God in prayer about such matters. The Apostle Paul wrote to brethren at Philippi as follows: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6-7). If a Christian does not have this “peace of God, which passeth all understanding” then that brother or sister in Christ should immediately take the scriptural action that will enable them to have that peace and assurance within their soul. The Apostle Paul urges brethren to “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice” (Phil. 4:4). If, as a Christian, we do not have the disposition to radiate joy in our life, then there has to be something lacking in our life. When a joyous life in living a Christian life is absent in the life of a child of God, that brother or sister in Christ should determine within their own heart as to what is robbing them of such joy. This examination should be based upon “a thus saith the Lord.” We may need to talk with a fellow Christian about it, take what ever action that is necessary to correct the mater, if possible, and pray to God in order to obtain “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding.”

When it is time for us to walk this earth no more, we should be able to say, as the psalmist said, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever” (Psalm 23).

–Dub Mowery

CAN A PERSON KNOW THAT HE OR SHE IS SAVED?

Frequently someone inquires, “How can I know as to whether or not I have been saved from my past sins?”  This is the most important question that an individual can ask concerning them self.  Unfortunately many seek the answer in the wrong place and source.

   Let us first consider some of the wrong ways in which mankind in general attempt to learn whether or not they are saved.  Some claim, “I know that I’m saved because I feel it right here!” (They point to the left side of their chest while making that statement.)  But Solomon stated by inspiration:  “He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool:  but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered” (Proverb 28:26).  Also, the prophet Jeremiah declared, “O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself:  it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps” (Jeremiah 10:23).

   It is the inspired Word of God that gives us spiritual light to direct our path.  The psalmist reverently stated unto the Heavenly Father, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105).  Thus, the realization of a person’s spiritual salvation is not derived by subjectivity (their feelings), but rather by objectivity (evidence outside their own being).

   Others seek after a supernatural sign from Heaven as evidence of their salvation.  The Apostle Paul warns of those who seek after supernatural signs instead of receiving the truth in love (2 Thess. 2:9-10).  God’s inspired Word is the truth that saves (John 17:17; 1 Pet. 1:22-23).

   Similar to those who look for a supernatural sign, there are those who claim to have received a message from “a still voice.”  But what message could such a voice provide for us concerning salvation that is not already included in the Scriptures?  According to the Apostle Peter, we have already received “…all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:” (2 Pet. 1:3).

   There are still others who claim that they have seen an angel who has declared their salvation.  However, the Apostle Paul warns against those claiming salvation by an angel that conflicts with the gospel of Christ (Galatians 1:6-9).

   Still others claim that they obtained redemption by receiving the Holy Spirit.  There is not any example in the Bible of a person being saved by a direct operation of the Holy Spirit.  The truth of the matter is that those of the world cannot receive the Spirit (John 14:16-17).  God’s inspired Word is the instrument of the Spirit to convict us of sin (Acts 2:36-37).  In adhering to that inspired Word, a precious soul is born into the spiritual kingdom of God, which is the church (1 Pet. 1:23; James 1:18; Acts 2:47).

   Many feel that they are saved because of their claim of accepting Jesus Christ as their personal savior.  But Jesus reveals that such a claim is inadequate in obtaining salvation.  Recorded at Luke 6:46, He declared:  “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?”  Not only that, but our Lord informs us that professing religious allegiance unto Him is insufficient when an individual fails to do the Heavenly Father’s will (Matt. 7:21-23).

   In a positive way, how can we know whether or not we are saved?  The Apostle John tells us at First John 2:3-5 how we can know concerning this most important matter.  He stated:  “And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.  He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.  But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected:  hereby know we that we are in him.”  The Apostle Paul further clarifies how a person enters into Christ.  He reveals that an obedient believer is baptized into Christ (Rom. 6:3-4; Gal. 3:26-27).  A person baptized into covenant fellowship with the Lord becomes a new creature (2 Cor. 5:17; Eph. 1:3).

   The inspired Word is the media in which the Holy Spirit reveals what is necessary for our salvation (James 1:21; Acts 11:14; 2 Pet. 1:3).  When the Apostle Peter, by inspiration, revealed what a person must do to be saved from their sins, “…they that gladly received his word were baptized:  and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls” (Acts 2:41).  It is our prayer that you will place your trust in the inspired Word of God rather than the creeds of men, and even your own feelings and preconceived concepts of salvation.

–Dub Mowery

THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE INSPIRED WORD

We recognize the Bible as having been divinely given unto mankind. The Apostle Paul wrote, that, “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). The term “given by inspiration of God” is translated from the Greek word Theopneustos, which is a combination of two Greek words: Theos (which means God), and pneustos (which means breathed). It is the word of God given supernaturally by His Spirit unto man. Specific men of the period in which the Bible was written received the inspired Word. These men wrote that inspired Word as they were guided by the Holy Spirit.

The inspired Words of the Bible are the means of the Holy Spirit to communicate unto lost humanity what God would have them to do. In that the Spirit gave unto mankind the inspired Word, there is not any conflict between the Holy Spirit and His inspired Word. Instead, the Bible is the instrument of the Spirit in convicting us of sin, converting us, and directing us in doing the Will of the Heavenly Father. At Ephesians 6:17, the Apostle Paul points out that the Word of God is the sword of the Spirit. Just as a literal sword can penetrate into a man’s physical heart, the inspired Word can prick the spiritual heart of man. This is exactly what happened on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:36-41). As the Apostle Peter was summing up his sermon with the following words: “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ” (verse 36). The immediate result and response: “Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (Verse 37). Take note that when the inspired Word penetrated into their spiritual heart they were convicted of their sins. Their immediate response was to inquire as to what they must do to obtain forgiveness. The Apostle Peter, having received the baptismal measure of the Holy Spirit, responded, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Verse 38). After exhorting them with many other words, the scripture states, “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls” (Verse 41). That passage did not say, “they received the Holy Spirit”! It plainly states, “…they that gladly received his word were baptized…” Without exception, every person who becomes a child of God does so by obeying the gospel of Christ (Romans 6:16-18). What about those who do not obey the gospel? They will be eternally lost (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; 1 Peter 4:17-18). The Holy Spirit has NEVER miraculously come upon anyone for the purpose of converting them.

For every passage of scripture that speaks of the Holy Spirit being involved in aspects of our salvation there is a corresponding scripture that states that the inspired Word does the same thing. Rather than this being a contradiction, the inspired Word is the instrument used in converting a person. The following list of scripture reveal this truth.

The Spirit witnesses, Romans 8:16 ————————————–The inspired Word witnesses, John 5:39

The Spirit instructs, Nehemiah 9:30 ——————————–The inspired Word instructs, 2 Timothy 3:16

The Spirit convicts, John 16:8 ———————————————–The inspired Word convicts, Titus 1:9

The Spirit begets, 2 Corinthians 3:16 ————————————–The inspired Word begets, James 1:18

Born of the Spirit, John 3:5, 8 ———————————————Born of the inspired Word, 1 Peter 1:23

The Spirit saves, Titus 3:5 —————————————————-The inspired Word saves, James 1:21

The Spirit sanctifies, 1 Corinthians 6:11 ——————————-The inspired Word sanctifies, John 17:17

The Spirit cleanses, 1 Corinthians 6:11 ———————————–The inspired Word cleanses, John 15:2

Indwelling of the Spirit, Romans 8:11 ————————Indwelling of the inspired Word, Colossians 3:16

The Spirit strengthens, Ephesians 3:16 ——————————The inspired Word strengthens, Acts 20:28

Power of the Spirit, Romans 15:13 ————————————-Power of the inspired Word, Hebrews 1:3

–Dub Mowery

HOMOSEXUAL MARRIAGES

Times have certainly changed since my childhood days. In some ways that change has been for the better. Socially, medically, technologically, and educationally, we enjoy a far greater standard of living than did our grandparents. But with the advancements in our living conditions there has come a corresponding collapse in our moral living. One area that has suffered from this moral collapse has to do with the family. In the 1950’s we saw an increase in the divorce rate, an increase that has yet to peak. In the 1980’s society gave up on marriage and began to move toward “live-in” partners. Universities sponsored co-ed dormitories, with little if any supervision of what goes on after classroom hours. The 1990’s saw the push for “homosexual rights.” Every imaginable attempt has been made to make the vile practice of homosexuality look legitimate. “You were born that way,” or “What the homosexual does in the privacy of his home will not affect you,” were the initial volleys that were fired over the bow of the societal norms. Like the proverbial camel that was allowed to push his nose through the door, eventually the entire camel has managed to push his way into the tent. Government leaders have coddled, cooed and compromised to the point that the very fabric of our society is now threatened. What started in Vermont, found acceptance in Hawaii, and has now been declared “constitutional” in the high courts of Massachusetts. We are speaking of the acceptance and legitimization of homosexual marriages. Our Supreme Court cracked the door more than 30 years ago when it legitimized abortion on the grounds that what one does in private in no way affects society. The Supreme Court overthrew the Texas anti-sodomy law on this same flimsy argument of personal “privacy.” My friends, if this “camel” is allowed to get into the tent, then I humbly suggest to you, “There goes the tent!” Consider the following concerning homosexual marriages.

First and foremost, homosexual marriage is completely contrary to God’s divine law. Marriage was instituted and defined in Genesis 2:24, “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall become one flesh.” This first marriage serves as a pattern for successive marriages, as implied by Jesus in Matthew 19:4-6. If homosexuality is condemned in the scripture (and it is, Rom. 1:26-27, Gen. 19:1 ff) what makes us think that God will smile on the “union” of two homosexuals? He will not!

Second, homosexual marriage harms marriage in general. Proponents of gay marriage frequently argue that allowing for it would have no affect whatsoever on the institution of marriage itself. Former Harvard anthropologist Stanley Kurtz writing in the Weekly Standard, reports on various European studies that challenge this argument. Kurtz reports that in those countries where full homosexual marriage rights have been granted, marriage and indeed concrete family structures have been considerable weakened. Mr. Kurtz writes that “same-sex marriage has locked in and reinforced an existing Scandinavian trend toward the separation of marriage and parenthood…instead of encouraging a society-wide return to marriage…gay marriage has driven home the message that marriage itself is outdated, and that virtually any family form, including out-of-wedlock parenthood, is acceptable.”

Third, homosexual marriage fosters immorality in society in other areas. Sweden, Denmark, and Norway—all of whom have incorporated full gay marriage rights over the past ten to fifteen years—have seen jumps in out-of-wedlock births since they legalized homosexual marriage. This deterioration of the traditional family structure has ushered in an era where the majority of children are born outside of marriage. What makes us think that legalization of homosexual marriage is going to strengthen the family? To the contrary, it will weaken the family unit and usher in more radical departures from the Biblical definition of marriage. Is it any wonder that some sociologists are declaring that marriage is an outmoded, outdated, and obsolete institution?

Fourth, homosexual marriages give a false impression of respectability of homosexual unions. I wonder in my own mind, why does the homosexual even bother with marriage? What do they hope to accomplish if it is not to give some sense of respectability to this sorted and sinful behavior? If the homosexual rebels and ridicules God’s law on homosexuality, what makes us think they respect God’s law concerning marriage, commitment, fidelity, etc. that comes with the union of two people in marriage?

Finally, homosexual marriage is not just a political issue; it is a moral issue. In fact, it is first and foremost a moral issue. Liberals have attempted to move the issue of homosexual rights and now homosexual marriage off the moral table and classify it as a “civil rights” issue; purely political. But the child of God realizes that this is a moral issue. What is shocking is that some members of the body of Christ will support, encourage, and stand by political candidates that have made it known that they favor homosexual activity and/or marriage.

Dear friend, homosexual marriage runs contrary to all that is right and decent. It is a slap in the face of God. The homosexual community is laughing at God-fearing people in this country. Let’s not be taken in by this devil’s lie that homosexual marriage will not affect you or me. To believe the lie is deadly.

–Tom Wacaster
Via Talco church of Christ
Talco, TX

HOW DOES ONE KNOW IF HE IS SAVED?

Frequently someone inquires, “How can I know as to whether or not I have been saved from my past sins?” This is the most important question that an individual can ask concerning themselves. Unfortunately many seek the answer in the wrong place and source.

Let us first consider some of the wrong ways in which men in general attempt to learn whether or not they are saved. Some claim, “I know that I’m saved because I feel it right here!” (pointing to the left side of their chest while making that statement). But Solomon stated by inspiration: “He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered” (Prov. 28:26). Also, the prophet Jeremiah declared, “O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps” (Jer. 10:23).

It is the inspired Word of God that gives us spiritual light to direct our path. The psalmist reverently stated unto the Heavenly Father, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psa. 119:105). Thus, the realization of a person’s spiritual salvation is not derived by subjectivity — their feelings — but rather by objectivity — evidence outside their own being.

Others seek after a supernatural sign from Heaven as evidence of their salvation. The Apostle Paul warns of those who seek after supernatural signs instead of receiving the truth in love (2 Thess. 2:9-10). God’s inspired Word is the truth that saves (John 17:17; 1 Pet. 1:22-23).

Similar to those who look for a supernatural sign, there are those who claim to have received a message from “a still voice.” But what message could such a voice provide for us concerning salvation that is not already included in the Scriptures? According to the Apostle Peter, we have already received “…all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue” (2 Pet. 1:3).

There are still others who claim that they have seen an angel who declared their salvation. However, the Apostle Paul warns against those claiming salvation by an angel that conflicts with the gospel of Christ (Gal. 1:6-9).

Still others claim that they obtained redemption by receiving the Holy Spirit. There is not any example in the Bible of a person being saved by a direct operation of the Holy Spirit. The truth of the matter is that those of the world cannot receive the Spirit (John 14:16-17). God’s inspired Word is the instrument of the Spirit to convict us of sin (Acts 2:36-37). In adhering to that inspired Word, a precious soul is born into the spiritual kingdom of God, which is the church (1 Pet. 1:23; Jas. 1:18; Acts 2:47).

Many feel that they are saved because they have “accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.” But Jesus reveals that such a claim is inadequate in obtaining salvation. Recorded at Luke 6:46, He declared: “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Not only that, but our Lord informs us that professing religious allegiance unto Him is insufficient when an individual fails to do the Heavenly Father’s will (Matt. 7:21-23).

In a positive way, how can we know whether or not we are saved? The Apostle John tells us at First John 2:3-5 how we can know concerning this most important matter. He stated: “And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.” The Apostle Paul further clarifies how a person enters into Christ. He reveals that an obedient believer is baptized into Christ (Rom. 6:3-4; Gal. 3:26-27). A person baptized into covenant fellowship with the Lord becomes a new creature (2 Cor. 5:17; Eph. 1:3).

The inspired Word is the medium in which the Holy Spirit has revealed what is necessary for our salvation (Jas. 1:21; Acts 11:14; 2 Pet. 1:3). The Apostle Peter, by inspiration, revealed what a person must do to be saved from their sins, “…they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls” (Acts 2:41). It is our prayer that you will place your trust in the inspired Word of God rather than the creeds of men, or your own feelings and preconceived concepts of salvation.

–Dub Mowery

HOW DOES THE HOLY SPIRIT DWELL IN A CHILD OF GOD TODAY?

In obtaining the answer to the above question, let us commence our inquiry by reading the following scripture: “But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you” (Romans 8:11). There are several other passages of scripture that clearly reveal that the Holy Spirit does dwells in a child of God. Therefore, it is not a question as to whether or not the Holy Spirit dwells in a Christian, but rather how does He dwell therein? None of those passages designate the manner or mode of the indwelling. There are some unsubstantiated concepts concerning this indwelling of the Holy Spirit. They are as follows: (1) There are those who believe that the Holy Spirit enters an individual for the purpose of converting that person. But this is not so because those of the world cannot receive the Spirit (John 14:16-17). In whatever manner that a person receives the third person of the Godhead, it is not before he or she becomes a child of God. Our God is not a respecter of persons; therefore He would not send the Holy Spirit to convert some but not others (Acts 10:34-35). The means of converting is the inspired Word given by the Holy Spirit (Acts 11:13-14; James 1:21). (2) Others go as far as to claim to receiving the baptismal measure of the Holy Spirit. They further boast of being able to speak in tongues and to perform other miracles. But the baptismal measure of the Holy Spirit was only promised to the apostles (John 14:26; 16:13). (3) Some brethren are drifting into a concept of special leading of the Holy Spirit separate and apart from the inspired Word. We can be thankful that the Word of God sufficiently provides us spiritual guidance in all things that pertain unto life and godliness (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:3). (4) A fourth concept held by many is that the Holy Spirit literally dwells in us separate and apart from the inspired Word, but does not communicate with or influence our human spirit. If that concept were true then the only way that a person would know of His indwelling would be from the Bible. But the scripture does not state that this is a literal indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Not only does the inspired scripture teach that the Holy Spirit dwells in a child of God, but it also reveals that the Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ also dwells in the redeemed (1 Corinthians 6:16; Colossians 1:27). How do all three persons of the Godhead dwell in us? The Bible plainly states that, “…Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith…” (Ephesians 3:17). This takes place after we learn of Christ by way of the inspired Word and obeys His gospel (Romans 10:17; Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3:26-27; Galatians 2:20). After learning about the Son of God from the Bible, we hold those truths dear in our heart. As a child of God, it is in that sense that Christ dwells in our hearts by faith. This is exactly the manner in which the Holy Spirit dwells in us. At Galatians 3:2, the Apostle Paul writes, “…Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?” (Galatians 3:2). The phrase “by the hearing of faith” literally means “by the message of faith.” In hearing the Word of God, the Galatians received it into their heart and were influenced thereby. This continues to be the only way in which the Holy Spirit directs Christians in doing the Will of the Heavenly Father. There is nothing mysterious or supernatural in a person studying the inspired Word and applying it to their life. Simply hearing the inspired Word is not enough, we must allow it to germinate in our heart and bear fruit (James 2:21-22; Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 6:46; Galatians 5:22-26).

–Dub Mowery

HOW DOES THE HOLY SPIRIT LEAD US TODAY?

Yes, just how does the Holy Spirit lead a person in this present age? Many mistakenly think that their own subjective feelings are a supernatural action of the Holy Spirit. If this were so, how would a person distinguish between their natural inner feelings and those brought on supernaturally? Solomon warns, “He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered” (Proverb 28:26). Again, “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man; but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverb 16:25). These two passages reveal that our inner feelings are not a reliable source in determining right from wrong. This is especially true in respect to morals and learning what the Lord would have us to do. Our outlook on life philosophically is determined by how we were raised, experiences in life, knowledge obtained by observation and by what we were taught. From these sources we develop a philosophy to guide us in life. This internal understanding of right and wrong may not coincide with the inspired Word of God. It is the reason why different people who rely upon their inner feelings as being divinely guided by the Holy Spirit derive at opposite concepts with one another and with what the Bible actually teaches. These conflicting claims of being guided by the Holy Spirit cannot be blamed upon the Lord. The Apostle Paul informs us that, “…God is not the author of confusion…” (1 Corinthians 14:33).

In reality, how does the third person in the Godhead communicate unto mankind? From the beginning of time Devine messages were always delivered in a language understood by the recipients of those messages. A person has never received communication from Heaven by way of their inner feeling. How did Adam and Eve come to knowledge of the will of God for them in the Garden of Eden? It was with WORDS!!! “The Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: but, of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die” (Genesis 2:16-17).

Several passages of scripture reveal that the Holy Spirit used words to communicate. David declared, “The spirit of the Lord spake by me, and his word was in my tongue” (2 Samuel 23:2). The Apostle Peter said, “Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus” (Acts 1:16). The Apostle Paul wrote, “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith…” (1 Timothy 4:1).

The Holy Spirit did not communicate heavenly messages to every person, but rather inspired certain men as spokesmen. Moses received the Decalogue (The Ten Commandments) for the children of Israel at Mount Sinai. The Apostle John pointed out that “…the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ” (John 1:17). During the Mosaic dispensation God chose certain men as prophets to deliver His Word to the Israelites. The Apostle Peter, in referring to the writers of the Old Testament, said, “holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” (2 Peter 1:21). At Hebrews 1:1, the scripture states, “God, who as sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets.” For the New Testament dispensation Jesus Christ promised to send the Holy Spirit unto the apostles to guide them unto all truth (John 14:26; 16:13). Not only did the apostles and the New Testament prophets speak by inspiration, but they also wrote as guided unto all truth (2 Timothy 3:16-17). At First Corinthians 2:10-13, the Apostle Paul pointed out that the very words in which he wrote were the words of the Holy Spirit. The days of miracles and the receiving a message from heaven supernaturally ceased at the close of the first century (1 Corinthians 13:8-10; Jude 3; Revelation 22:18-19). The Bible is the complete revelation of the Heavenly Father for mankind’s eternal redemption. Those who claim to have been lead by the Holy Spirit today is either deceived or a false prophet (Matthew 7:15; 1 John 4:1).

–Dub Mowery

IS IT NECESSARY TO BE A MEMBER OF THE CHURCH TO BE SAVED?

When asked if it is necessary to be in the church to be saved, a large percentage of people will answer in the negative. A favorite cliché among them is “No, the church does not save you; Jesus is the savior, not the church!” We wholeheartedly agree that Jesus Christ is the savior of mankind. An angel revealed unto Joseph concerning Mary, “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins” (Matt. 1:21). To the shepherds watching their sheep at night, an angel appeared unto them and declared, “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). We have proclaimed this truth for more than 48 years of preaching the gospel of Christ. Nevertheless, the above cliché is misleading! It reveals that those making such a statement do not understand what the church consists of. The English word “church” is translated from the Greek word ekklesia. That Greek word means “the called out.” In obeying the gospel of Christ, a person is translated by the Heavenly Father into the kingdom of His dear Son (II Thes. 2:14; Rom. 6:3-4, 17-18; I Cor. 15:1-4; Col. 1:13-14). The same individuals who make up the church are in the spiritual kingdom of the Lord as revealed in the first chapter of the Colossian epistle. After having received scriptural baptism, that person is added by the Lord to His church (Acts 2:36-47). This is the new birth in which Jesus declared, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). Thus, the church and the spiritual kingdom of the Godhead is one and the same thing.

Other metaphors of the church include it being portrayed as liken to a physical body (I Cor. 12:12-27). Concerning this figurative language, the Apostle Paul stated that the church is the body (Eph. 1:22-23), and that the body is the church of God (Col. 1:18). Our Lord is the savior of His spiritual body (the church). At Ephesians 5:23, Paul stated, “…Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body.” For a person to claim, “You do not have to be in the church to be saved!” makes as much sense as saying, “You do not have to be a part of the saved to be saved!” Of course, a person does not have to be in a denomination to be saved in that none existed in the first century A. D. The Son of God did not die for any denomination. There is not any Biblical authority for any denomination to exist! When a person is baptized (immersed in water) for the remission of sins, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, that person is born into the family of God, which is the church (I Tim. 3:15).