THE RIGHTEOUS HAVE HOPE IN DEATH
Death is identified in scripture as an enemy. Paul wrote, “The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death” (I Corinthians 15:26). Ever since death came into the world, it has been an enemy that has caused great dread and fear. To some, nothing could be more terrifying than contemplating death.
Evidence of Salvation
There is nothing in this world more important than being saved from sin. Every person possesses an immortal soul that will never cease to exist (James 2:26; Romans 2:7; II Corinthians 5:1). When Christ comes again and judges the world, the souls of the saved will enter heaven; the lost will be banished to hell (Acts 17:30-31; Matthew 25:31-46). In view of these biblical truths, nothing could be more important than having the assurance that one is saved from sin, and, consequently, that one has a heavenly home.
Reading God's Word in the New Year
The New Year is now well underway. Many have made New Year’s resolutions to lose weight, diet and exercise, and to put more money into savings. Keeping these common and worthy goals will likely lead to better health and improved finances.
The Love of God
The Bible has much to say regarding the love of God. Reflecting on God’s wonderful love should cause all to have a deeper appreciation for His love and inspire us to greater heights of faithfulness. Consider the following points regarding God’s love:
I'll Just Worship At Home
Faithful Christians have a strong desire to attend worship services. To worship God is a commandment, but it is also a high, exalted privilege. Wonderful things happen during worship. God’s people teach and admonish one another (Colossians 3:16). We reflect on the death of our Lord (Luke 22:19). God is praised and adored (Hebrews 2:12). We fulfill God’s commandment for His people to assemble on the first day of the week (Hebrews 10:25).
Blessed Are The Peacemakers
The teachings of Jesus Christ have made a positive impact on the world more than the teachings of any other person. The Beatitudes are just one example of the Lord’s teachings which continue to benefit those who receive them. The Beatitudes are attitudes which should “be” in the lives of Christians (Matthew 5:1-12). Each of these attitudes is vital to the Christian. However, the focus of this article is the seventh beatitude: “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). Since Jesus taught that peacemakers will be “blessed,” we should learn how to become peacemakers.
ARE YOUR BELIEFS BIBLICAL?
Are your religious beliefs based on the teachings of the Bible? Do you have book, chapter, and verse support for the things you believe about God, sin, and salvation? Those professing to be Christians would agree that our religious beliefs “should” come from the Bible. The Bible is the final authority for Christians. “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, throughly furnished unto all good works” (II Timothy 3:16-17). The Scriptures provide all we need to know in order to be saved eternally in heaven.
WHEN CHRIST IS YOUR LIFE
God has made great promises to those who live for Christ. Consider what Paul wrote about living for Christ: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you” (Philippians 1:21-24). Notice from this text that Paul lived for Christ: “For to me to live is Christ” (v.21). Because Paul lived for Christ, he enjoyed wonderful blessings and promises. These same blessings and promises are given to those who live for Christ today. Consider the following blessings:
You Need Patience
Patience is a virtue that every Christian needs. Faithful followers of Christ will be blessed, but with the blessings will come many challenges and trials. This was true of first-century Christians and it still holds true today.
