"I Don't Fit In"

This is the sentiment of at least one sister in my congregation. When talking to her on the Lord's day, she expressed that she doesn't feel like she fits in with Lord's church at Handley. No one has ever made such a blunt comment to me, though I have perceived their harsh feelings toward the church through casual conversation. Because of her statement though, I have thought seriously about the idea of "fitting in" in the local congregation of God's people. First, we will look at why others don't "fit in" and what we can do to help them not only feel a part of the work of the church, but actually encourage them to be a part of the work. Please open your Bible with me as we look at this relevant subject.

THE WRONG ATTITUDE

Fitting in is often a mindset. I can recall another situation in which another Christian left a small assembly of Christians because she was sure that others did not want her to be there. Nothing could have been farther from the truth! She had made up in her mind to leave that group. No one had made any inappropriate remarks to her, or even conveyed the idea that she was unwanted. However, something in her mind convinced her that her presence was undesired.

Friend, that kind of attitude reflects on that sister, not on the church. She had artfully crafted a situation where she was unwanted. That hurts my heart to think that she has such a bad taste in her mouth about herself and the church because of her own thoughts.

When someone makes up in his mind that he is a part of the church, and that the Christian life is not only a personal journey, but a collective one (cf. Hebrews 10:23-24), then he will do his best to not to worry about what others think, but what he can do to help and encourage other followers of Christ.

Personal prejudices. This mindset is closely related to the one mentioned above. If one is a part of a congregation where he is a minority (whether it be in marital situation, age, social status, race, educational background, etc.), then it can be easy to feel like an odball or left out. Often time this mindset makes others feel unwanted or "out of step" with the rest of God's people.

But sometimes, minorities just don't want to get along with everyone else. They enjoy being "different" and like to be out of the loop as far as activities and works in the church are concerned. This is not an attitude becoming of a Christian (cf. Romans 2:11; Acts 10:34-35).

Ignorance of your individual role in the church. Since we are all individuals, we all have personal strengths and abilities (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:4-11). How amazing! But sometimes, mature disciples fail to share this truth with those who are newborn babes in Christ. Because of this lack of communication, many Christians don't find their "specialty" in the congregation. Every Christian's individuality should be stressed and nurtured, because our individual strengths are collectively, the church's strength.

SOME IMPORTANT QUESTIONS TO PONDER

Am I nurturing the ones who "don't fit", those with no one in their age group, their marital situation, their race or social background? It is important to let others know that they are appreciated and that the congregation's success relies on their hard work and contribution to the local work. At one time, all of us were new to the church, and because many of us have experienced "being left out", we should not want anyone else to be found in that situation (cf. Matthew 7:12).

Do I pay attention to the needs of others above my own? Christians ought to give special attention to the problems of those in the household of faith (Galatians 6:10). Other Christians should be on the top of our priority list. The perfect example of someone caring for others more than Himself is our Lord Jesus (cf. Philippians 2:5-7; 1 Peter 2:21). He bore our sins, cares for us, and always looks out for our best interest. We should imitate Him in that regard.

Practical suggestions to prevent others from being "left out"

• Be hospitable. Invite them into your home or to a restaurant for a meal on you.
• Meet new people. Often people feeling left out is because not many in the congregation get around to meeting them and showing a genuine interest.
• Move out of your comfort zone. At a luncheon or during a worship meeting, go sit beside someone you don't usually sit by. They won't bite!
• Write a note of encouragement. Let others know that you care by putting it one paper.
  

Because we are human, we have a natural inclination to want to belong. Whether it be in the workplace, the home, at school, or as a member of God's family. However, when every member does his part, the church will work just fine. Just make sure you are doing yours, and encourage others to do theirs.

"Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God"
(Romans 15:7).

Christ Arose!

Death is an appointment we must all meet (Hebrews 9:27). At our death, we will stand in front of the Lord's judgment seat (2 Corinthians 5:10) where we will be judged according to what we did in our physical bodies, both good and bad. This scene and reality is an apparently dismal to many people, but why?

• Because they have not obeyed the gospel of Christ. Paul said that Jesus will return to deal out retribution on every person who has not rendered obedience to Christ's gospel (2 Thessalonians 1:8-9). If one has never been sincerely been obedient to Christ's death, burial, and ressurection, then he is still a slave to sin and is in a broken relationship with God (cf. Romans 6:17; Isaiah 59:1-2).
• Because they are living unfaithfully. Maybe one has submitted to God in gospel obedience, but he is no longer living a life of full dedication to Him. Being a Christian is more than just, "believe, repent, confess, and be baptized." It is a full-time life commitment in service to Jesus Christ (cf. Galatians 2:20). But for those who have obeyed the truth and turned away from it, it is better if he had never obeyed (2 Peter 2:20-22).

Friends, the good news is that we do not have to live in such uncertainty and constant fear. Because of Christ's death and resurrection, we too can live beyond death (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Phi. 3:10). Because of the resurrected Savior, death is only the doorway to life to those who remain loyal and commited to Him (cf. Revelation 2:10).

The Lord Jesus Christ has tasted death as ransom for all people: Once and for all. He has conquered death and the tomb, and offers a resurrection hope to all who would respond to His call. In His resurrection:

• God's power is demonstrated - Acts 2:24
• Christ triumphs over sin - 1 Corinthians 15:55-57
• Christians base their eternal hope - Romans 5:3-5

Low in the grave He lay, Jesus my Savior, waiting the coming day, Jesus my Lord!
Vainly they watch His bed, Jesus my Savior, vainly they seal the dead, Jesus my Lord!
Death cannot keep his prey, Jesus my Savior, He tore the bars away, Jesus my Lord!
Up from the grave He arose, with a mighty triumph o'er His foes.
He arose a Victor from the dark domain, and He lives forever with His saints to reign.
He arose, He arose,
Hallejuah,
Christ arose!

Bible Class - Why Bother?

Our Lord Jesus Christ quoted the Scriptures often. One quotation that He made was, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). The Savior knew the vital importance of knowing the Scriptures. As a youth, He discussed the Word with "experts" in the Law (Luke 2:47-52). He said that we must live on the Scriptures. He proclaimed the eternal satisfaction of those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (Matthew 5:6).

So where does Bible class fit into this picture? Is it a useful tool in carrying out a hunger for righteousness? Or is it simply a ploy by the elders to make our lives harder, and Sundays longer?

Why I attend Bible class:

I want to grow in knowledge (2 Peter 3:18). We have the Scriptures so that we can know what to do in order to be saved (John 20:31; 1 John 5:13). If I am ignorant of the Bible, I will never know how to live in harmony with God’s will. Some would have us believe that the Bible is too confusing or complicated to understand, but Paul didn’t know that (Ephesians 3:4). What better way to gain insight into God’s Word than Bible class attendance?

I want to be able to give an answer for my beliefs (1 Peter 3:15). To do anything in religion without knowing why you do it is not spiritually healthy. It’s very easy to simply take the preacher’s or “wise” man’s opinion about something. However, it is hard to simply want to know why you believe what you believe. Christians are commanded to be able to give a ready defense for the eternal hope within. If I never study the Scriptures privately or with the church, how will I ever be able to tell others about the hope that is in me?

I believe the Bible originated with God (2 Samuel 23:2). Because of this conviction, I try to make a habit to regularly read and think about the Scriptures. One of these ways is through regular Bible class attendance, where passages are taught in an organized way. The psalmist wrote, “My heart stands in awe of Your words” (Psalm 119:161). An attitude that recognizes the inspiration of the Bible also recognizes the need to study the Book regularly with brothers and sisters in Christ.

I want to encourage the congregation (Hebrews 10:24). This very passage instructs Christians to consider how to “stir up one another to love and good works.” One of these ways is Bible class attendance. One of the highlights of my week is a good Bible class. It’s very encouraging and uplifting to hear brethren discuss spiritual things in such an informal and personal way. I gain extra insight into the Bible through great comments that knowledgeable Christian men and women make.

I want to show my respect for the shepherds (Hebrews 13:17). I know that the elders love my soul, and they have set apart this particular time for Scripture study and fellowship. The elders must be followed as long as they follow Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).

This is the main motivation for attending Bible class: I WANT TO! Bible class is a time that can be used for study and growth in the Word of God. I show up because I want to grow as a Christian and make my home in Heaven with God. It would do no good for me to simply show up at 9:30 on Sunday, and 7:30 on Wednesday if I had no desire to be there. Who could benefit from that? Not other Christians, because they will know by my actions I don’t want to be there. If anything, they would be discouraged by my attendance. Also, I wouldn’t benefit because of a lack of motivation and interest.

Bible class is a great time to express my love for God, His word, and His people. I hope every Christian will take advantage of this great service!

"The unfolding of Your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.”

– Psalm 119:130

If it Were Your Funeral, What COULD Be Said?

Funerals are solemn ceremonies in which the living commemorate the life of the deceased. Most of us have been to one, and if you have not, your family surely will: Yours! Death is an appointment we must all make (cf. Hebrews 9:27). Upon our physical death, our spirit will stand before God in judgment (2 Corinthians 5:10). Death indeed is imminent for us all.

I personally have been to funerals and memorial services where the eulogist has simply lied. He said things like, “Oh yes. He surely will be in heaven” or “God has taken this sweet lady away from us to be with Him”. Don't get me wrong, these statements are not lies in and of themselves. But when they are said of an unfaithful Christian or an alien sinner, they are lies. Concerning your own life and funeral, we will ask some important questions:

• If it were your funeral, could it be said that you were a Christian or would it be said that you died outside the Lord? – 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9
• If it were you funeral, could it be said that you were faithful in attendance to the various weekly meetings of the church or that many members did not recognize your face because of your infrequency to worship assemblies? – Hebrews 10:24-25; Acts 2:40-47

• If it were your funeral, could it be said that you were kind and considerate to others, or that you always looked out for your own well-being? – Philippians 2:1-9

• If it were funeral, could it be said that you were a regular student of the Bible, or that your many Bibles simply remained on your bookshelf? – Psalm 119:160

• If it were your funeral, could it be said that you were honest or that you never told the truth? – Revelation 21:8

• If it were your funeral, could it be said that you were generous in your contribution to the church’s common pocketbook, or that you were frugal in your donation to the Lord’s work? – 2 Corinthians 9:6-7

• If it were your funeral, could it be said that you prayed constantly or that your knees never had to be replaced? – 1 Thessalonians 5:17

• If it were your funeral, could it be said that you were a willing worker for the Lord and His cause or a reluctant benchwarmer? – 1 Corinthians 15:58

• If it were your funeral, could it be said that you loved truth or that you were a sale-out to falsehood? – Proverbs 23:23

• If it were your funeral, could it be said that you warmly greeted visited at worship services or that you only acknowledged the presence of other Christians? – Romans 15:7, ESV

• If it were your funeral, could it be said that you lifte encouraged others with your words or tore them down with gossip? - Colossians 4:6

• If it were your funeral, could it be said that you sang psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs from the heart or that you barely opened your mouth in praise to God? – 1 Corinthians 14:15; Hebrews 13:15

• If it were your funeral, would you be ashamed to preach it yourself?

Sadly, this list could go and on. For the sake of your soul, live in a way that the preacher won’t have to lie at your funeral!

What is the church of Christ?

There is so much confusion in today's world over religion. Because of all of the confusion and religious bewilderment, there is also a lot of misunderstanding and ignorance concerning certain groups, namely, the church of Christ. Who are these people who call themselves the "church of Christ"? For a moment, we will examine the word of God to find out what the church is NOT (Acts 17:11).

The church is NOT a denomination

Jesus proclaimed, "I will build My church" (Matthew 16:18). A denomination is defined as,

“The system and ideology founded on the division of the religious population into numerous ecclesiastical bodies, each stressing particular values or traditions and each competing with the other in the same community under substantial conditions of freedom” (Jerald C. Brauer, Ed., The Westminster Dictionary of Church History, Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1971, pp. 262-263).

From this definition we can draw two very distinct conclusions:
A denomination is founded on division. Jesus prayed, "I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me." Christ prayed that His church would be one, not divided into various man-made denominations.

The Divine Record also says,"Except Jehovah build the house, They labor in vain that build it: Except Jehovah keep the city, The watchman waketh but in vain." God MUST be the builder of the church, which means that the church must be built according to the truth, His word (John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). Christ never promised to build anything EXCEPT His church.

A denomination is a group that stresses traditions that compete with other groups. The Lord promised to build only ONE church, putting all other groups OUT of competition with His church. The church of Jesus Christ is guided by His word. Paul wrote, "Whatever you do in word or work, do all in the name of the Lord" (Colossians 3:17). Since Christ has all authority, all things must be done according to His will. (Matthew 28:18) Therefore, Christians ONLY stress the necessity of obeying Jesus Christ, not the divisive traditions of men. (Matthew 15:8, 9)

The church is NOT composed of Campbellites

There is a growing and prevalent misconception that the church of Christ was founded by Alexander about 150 years ago. However, the present-day church of Christ is the same church you read about in the New Testament. The church of Christ is DIFFERENT today, it is NOT the church of Christ.

The Bible teaches that Christ is:
·THE BUILDER of the church (Matthew 16:18)
·THE HEAD of the church (Ephesians 1:22, 23; Colossians 1:18)
·THE SAVIOR of the church (Ephesians 5:23-25)
·THE KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS (Revelation 19:16; Colossians 1:13)
·BOTH LORD and CHRIST (Acts 2:16)

There is absolutely NO ROOM for Alexander Campbell, Barton W. Stone, or any other man to be the founder or head of the church of Jesus Christ.

The church is NOT a physical building

Often, when people think of the word church, they automatically associate it with a building. They'll say things like, "I've been at the church all day," or, "I've been working at the church all week preparing for VBS," or, "Meet at the church at 2pm for church maintenance." When did the people of God ever become a physical building?

We read that Saul was "ravaging the church" (Acts 8:3). Was he ravaging a building, or disciples of the Lord? As you continue to read the verse, you see Saul, "dragging off men and women." So we can reasonably conclude that Saul was "breathing out threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord." (Acts 9:1)

Spiritually, though, the church is called a building. Paul wrote to Christians saying, " For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 3:9-11; cf. Ephesians 2:20)

Conclusion

Let the message be clear: The church is not a denomination, a physical building, or built by a fallible human being.

May we never use the word church incorrectly!