by Matthew K. Clifton In the late 1700’s, a fellow named William Paley gave an illustration about how we look at the world around us. He said that if you were walking through a field and came across a watch on the ground, you would not think that watch came about naturally. Instead, you would [...]
Archive for the ‘Bible ‘Quick Notes’’ Category
Blind faith?
by Matthew K. Clifton Often Christians are painted as people who believe in things for which they have no evidence. It is sometimes suggested by atheists that believers “just go on blind faith.” But is this the kind of faith the Bible encourages in the people of God?
Fellowship: Romans 16:17-18
“Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid 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.” — Romans 16:17-18 As [...]
Fellowship: Matthew 18:15-17
“Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’ And [...]
Baptism: Spirit or water?
The objection is often raised that the baptism mentioned in Acts 2:38; Gal. 3:27; Romans 6:3,4; Mark 16:16 and Matt. 28:19, among others, is not referring to water baptism, but to “Spirit baptism.” I will endeavor to briefly show why these passages are to be understood as referring to water baptism of the believer.
What is Jesus really concerned about?
Someone once told me that he did not think Jesus would be too concerned about his sins because Jesus was a “cool dude” who was not too concerned about such things. Instead of focusing on sin, he said, “Jesus was all about love.” It is true enough that Jesus was all about love. It is [...]
Beware when all men speak well of you…
We all love to receive praise from time to time. It makes us feel worthy, like we are contributing something valuable. And yes, frequently our carnal nature is fed heartily from the flattery of others. When it comes to preaching God’s word, however, we must be very careful when we receive lots and lots of [...]
‘Am I a member of the true church of Christ?’
After reading Mark Lindley’s article, What is the Church of Christ? , a sincere reader asks: I am not a member of a labeled Church of Christ, but a non-denominational church (although I understand that COC is not to be considered denominational) so according to the write up, I am considered part of the true [...]
Is worshipping with instruments ‘darkness?’
In a recent article, I discussed the decision of the leaders of Quail Springs church of Christ in Oklahoma City to add an instrumental service to their worship. A few readers responded to my article with the idea that those who opposed the Quail Springs decision are being “comdemning” and “judgmental.” As a response, I asked [...]
Why do Christians try to convert others?
QUESTION: “Why do Christians always try to convert me to their religion?” ANSWER: Thank you for your question. There are several reasons, really. Below are three of these reasons.
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