A POWERFUL LIGHT

Posted on June 24, 2015 by from the Preachers PC

An artist created a painting of a wintry twilight. The trees were barren and laden with snow while a dreary-looking house stood desolate in the midst of the drifted field. It was a bleak and depressing picture. Then the artist took some yellow paint and with a few quick strokes painted a candle glowing in one of the windows of that home. The effect was almost magical. Just one little light and the entire scene was transformed into a vision of comfort and cheer.

The prophet Isaiah looked at his own country and recognized a need for comfort and cheer. He saw the spiritual darkness that enveloped many parts of his nation, especially in the north around the Sea of Galilee. This area had been conquered by the Syrian king Ben-Hadad (1 Kings 15:20) and became a melting pot of Jews and Gentiles. A mixture of Judaism and paganism became the dominant religion. The situation looked hopeless, but even into this stronghold of darkness and spiritual death, Isaiah saw a light break forth, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined” (Isa. 9:2). Centuries later, when the apostles began to preach concerning the Lord’s church, this area saw many become Christians (Acts 8). Indeed, the light of Christ’s redemption shone brightly.

The light of Christ makes a difference in your life. In the darkness of sin, you can find the light of His forgiveness. In the darkness of ignorance, His wisdom illumines the way. In the darkness of trials and trouble, His presence dispels the blackness. Whatever darkness threatens to overshadow your life, let Jesus be the light who drives it away. Jesus is the light of the world (John 9:5).

Think About It!

Have A Great Day!

Tom Moore
P. O. Box 107
Hamilton, Texas 76531
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

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The Lies of Satan

Posted on June 22, 2015 by from the Preachers PC

Tune in to The Harris and Moore Expedition Through The Bible tonight (and each Monday) at 7:00 pm CST at http://www.harrisandmoore.org or http://www.thegospelradionetwork.org. Tonight’s discussion will be on the “lies of Satan” – You have heard what men have said – now listen to what the Bible says.

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DIVINE SIGNPOSTS

Posted on June 22, 2015 by from the Preachers PC

DIVINE SIGNPOSTS

INTRODUCTION
A. In our efforts to lead people to Christ…
1. We understand the importance of the Word of God – Romans 10:17
2. The gospel is the power of God to salvation – Romans 1:16
B. Yet it helps to complement the Word with a demonstration of certain qualities whereby…
1. People can see the truth of the gospel in action
2. People are more likely to believe in Jesus Christ
C. When demonstrated by Christians in a local church, these ‘signposts’ can serve to…
1. Let the nonbeliever know:
a. There is a God Who loves him or her
b. Who has sent Jesus as a manifestation of that love
2. Let the true searcher know:
a. Those who are true disciples of Christ
b. Who can thus lead him or her to Christ
D. There are at least four such “Divine Signposts”, one being…
DISCUSSION
A. THE SIGNPOST OF UNITY
1. The Value of Unity of Believers
a. John 17:20-23
b. It shows that God has sent Christ
c. It shows that God has loved the world
2. So Unity is a Signpost to the World
a. John 3:16 – That God loves the world
b. Ephesians 2:13-16 – That God sent Christ who produces the unity witnessed by the world
3. Thus the Importance of Unity
a. Led Paul to condemn division and those who cause it
1) 1 Corinthians 1:10
2) Romans 16:17-18
b. The importance of unity led Paul to teach attitudes essential to preserving unity
1) Ephesians 4:1-3
2) Philippians 2:2-4
4. Let’s be sure that we do nothing to destroy the ‘signpost’ of unity; rather, let’s work toward enhancing its effectiveness. Another ‘signpost’ that points one in the right direction is…
B. THE SIGNPOST OF LOVE
1. The Value of Love for One Another
a. John 13:34 – It shows that we have been loved by Christ, whose love we seek to emulate
b. John 13:35 – It shows that we are truly His disciples
2. So Love is a Signpost to the World
a. John 15:12-13 – That Christ has loved His disciples
b. Ephesians 5:1-2 – That those who emulate His love are His true disciples
3. Thus the Importance of Love
a. 1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 – Led Paul to encourage churches to increase in love
b. Colossians 3:14 – Led Paul to consider love as the “bond of perfection”
1) Here we see that love and unity go together
2) By our love for one another, we are more likely to preserve our unity in Christ
4. Unity and love also go hand in hand as “Divine Signposts”
a. The first lets people know God loves them, and the second shows people who are the followers of Christ.
b. Now for a third ‘signpost’…
C. THE SIGNPOST OF HOPE
1. The Value of Hope
a. 1 Peter 3:15 – It can prompt people to ask us questions
b. 1 Peter 3:15 – It can provide us opportunity to share the reason for our hope
2. So Hope is a Signpost to the World
a. Presuming that our hope is something:
1) Noticeable, prompting people to ask “Why?”
2) Based upon reason, i.e., evidences for our faith
b. Especially when our hope is:
1) Romans 5:1-2 – Accompanied by peace and joy
2) Romans 5:3-4 – Steadfast even in tribulation –
3) Romans 5:5 – Based upon the love of God
4) 1 Peter 1:3-4 – Made sure by the resurrection of Jesus
3. Thus the Importance of Hope
a. 1 Peter 1:13 – Led Peter to command Christians to set their hope fully on the grace to come
b. 1 Peter 3:15 – Led Peter to command Christians to always be ready to explain their hope
4. To unity, love, and hope as “Divine Signposts”, let’s now consider a final ‘signpost’…
D. THE SIGNPOST OF GOOD WORKS
1. The Value of Good Works
a. Matthew 5:16 – They can lead men to glorify our Father in heaven
b. 1 Peter 2:12 – They can lead men to glorify God in the day of visitation
2. So Good Works are a Signpost to the World
a. Directing people to consider the motivation behind such works
b. 1 Peter 3:1-2 – Opening people up to the gospel message which inspires such works
3. Thus the Importance of Good Works
a. Titus 3:1 – Led Paul to command that we be ready for every good work –
b. Titus 3:8, 14 – Led Paul to command that we be careful to maintain good works
CONCLUSION
A. With such “Divine Signposts”, we can see how people can be led to Christ
1. Our unity can convince people of God’s love for them in sending Christ
2. Our love can direct them to true disciples of Christ
3. Our hope can prompt them to ask questions as to the reason for our faith
4. Our good works can encourage them to glory God by their own obedience to the gospel
B. This is no way takes away from the power of the gospel to save souls…
1. But the Lord intended for His church to be a city set on a hill
2. Which by demonstrating certain qualities as a group would draw people to Him
C. Without these “Divine Signposts”, we make it a lot harder for souls who are searching to find their Savior and His gospel!
D. Are we doing our part in the local congregation to display unity, love, hope and good works…?

Tom Moore
P. O. Box 107
Hamilton, Texas 76531
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

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THE HAND OF THE LORD WAS UPON ME

Posted on June 18, 2015 by from the Preachers PC

THE HAND OF THE LORD MY GOD WAS UPON ME
Ezra 7:28

INTRODUCTION
A. The Bible is filled with stories of people who lived their lives under the influence of God…
1. Through deep faith and a willingness to serve, God used them to fulfill His purposes
2. Ezra is one such example of what can happen:
a. When a person determines to seek God
b. And allows the Lord to use him
B. In 457 B.C., Ezra led a group of Jews from Babylonian captivity back to Jerusalem…
1. About eighty years after a group led by Zerubbabel to rebuild the temple
2. The mission of Ezra’s group was to restore the people of God
C. In the book of Ezra…
1. The first six chapters describe the work of Zerubbabel
2. The final four chapters relate Ezra’s arrival and the great restoration he brought about
3. The theme of Ezra’s life and work could be stated as “The Hand Of The Lord My God Was Upon Me,” for six times in two chapters he thus attributes his success.
4. In our lesson, let’s first notice…
DISCUSSION
A. HOW THE HAND OF THE LORD WAS UPON EZRA
1. In Receiving Requests From The King
a. Notice Ezra 7:6
b. Because the hand of the Lord was upon Ezra, Artaxerxes allowed him:
1) To go to Jerusalem – Ezra 7:12-13
2) To take silver and gold to buy animals for sacrifice – Ezra 7:14-17
3) To buy what is needed for the service of the house of God – Ezra 7:18-23
4) To be free from taxation – Ezra 7:24
5) To set up magistrates and judges – Ezra 7:25-26
c. Ezra recognized the hand of God was at work in his behalf! – Ezra 7:27-28
2. In Finding Servants For The Temple
a. Prepared to leave, Ezra noted none of sons of Levi – Ezra 8:15
b. He sends men to find some who will go with them – Ezra 8:16-17
c. By the good hand of God upon them, they find 38 Levites and 220 Nethinim to assist them! – Ezra 8:18-20
3. In Providing Safe Journey To Jerusalem
a. Ezra proclaimed a fast to seek from God the right way to travel – Ezra 8:21-23
b. Having told the king that God’s hand would be them, he was ashamed to ask for a military escort – Ezra 8:22
c. God’s hand was upon them, and they safely arrived in Jerusalem! – Ezra 8:31-32
4. From beginning to end the hand of the Lord was upon Ezra.
a. Why did Ezra enjoy the blessing of God’s provision in his life?
b. Is there anything we can glean from Ezra’s story that might ensure the hand of God in our own lives?
c. I believe there is! Let me suggest some reasons…
B. WHY THE HAND OF THE LORD WAS UPON EZRA
1. Ezra Had Prepared Himself
a. In a summary passage, we learn why God was with him – Ezra 7:9-10
b. God was with him “For (because) Ezra had prepared his heart…”
1) “to seek the Law of the Lord” (to learn what God wanted him to do)
2) “to do it” (to apply it to himself first)
3) “to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel” (and then teach others)
c. Ezra had first made himself useful for the Master – 2 Timothy 2:21
2. Ezra Had Sought The Lord
a. He believed that God would be with those who seek Him – Ezra 8:22
b. Thus he entreated God’s protection through fasting and prayer – Ezra 8:21-23
c. Ezra believed that God rewarded those who diligently seek Him; such faith undoubtedly pleased God – Hebrews 11:6
3. Ezra Was Willing To Step Out In Faith
a. Trusting the Lord would protect them, they began their perilous journey – Ezra 8:31
b. It was not easy, for there were enemies and potential for ambush along the way!
c. But Ezra illustrated that he had a living, working faith!
1) James 2:17, 26
2) Galatians 5:6
4. Ezra Was Willing To Face Difficult Situations
a. Upon his arrival, Ezra was faced with a difficult situation – Ezra 9:1-2
1) Many of the Israelites had intermarried with Gentile women
2) The rulers and leaders of Israel were the worst violators
b. He was moved to fasting and prayer – Ezra 9:3-15
1) Others joined him (“everyone who trembled at the words of the God of Israel”)
2) He offered prayer confessing the sins of Israel
c. He accepted the responsibility that was his – Ezra 10:1-8
1) Encouraged by those willing to repent
2) Leading the people to a great restoration!
d. It would have been so easy to rationalize away any need for the people to change; but Ezra did not let the emotionally charged issue deter him from doing God’s will!
CONCLUSION
A. The hand of the Lord was upon Ezra because he…
1. Had prepared himself
2. Sought the Lord
3. Was willing to step out in faith
4. Was willing to face difficult situations
B. Ezra was not the only person who experienced the hand of the Lord upon him…
1. The Lord was also with a contemporary, Nehemiah – Nehemiah 2:18
2. Sometimes the hand of the Lord was for the purpose of judgment – 1 Samuel 5:6
3. But here we have considered the working of God for good in the life of his servant
C. How will the hand of the Lord be for us? For our good, if we emulate Ezra by…
1. Preparing ourselves to be useful to the Master!
2. Seeking the Lord with diligence and faith!
3. Stepping out in faith against the odds
4. Facing difficult issues and situations head on
D. Let the example of Ezra encourage us to so live in Christ, that one day we can look back at the events in our lives and say: “The Hand Of The Lord My God Was Upon Me”!

Tom Moore
P. O. Box 107
Hamilton, Texas 76531
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

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NOBODY

Posted on June 17, 2015 by from the Preachers PC

“Once upon a time there were four men named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody and Nobody. There was an important job to be done and Everybody was asked to do it. But Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it. But Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about it, because it was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought that Anybody could do it, and Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn’t do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody and Nobody did the job that Anybody could have done in the first place.”

Nobody is still alive and well in the Lord’s church. When the elders plead for someone to teach Bible Class, Nobody is the most likely one to respond. When clean-up day rolls around, Nobody reports for duty. When there is a need to provide a meal for a visiting preacher, Nobody is first in line. When other jobs need to be done in the church, Nobody is usually the one who takes care of them. How refreshing it must be for God to hear Somebody say, “Here am I! Send me.”

When Isaiah envisioned the Holy God and the spiritual need of the unholy world, he was energized to respond to the need, “Here am I; send me” (Isa. 6:1-8). When he was released from the burden of his sin, he found a new enthusiasm for serving God. And so will you.

When you hear the summons to duty, don’t avoid the opportunity – or Nobody will end up doing it. Instead of a Nobody, be the Somebody who is willing to respond enthusiastically to the opportunities of service to God. Instead of making excuses and letting others do the work, find the joy of being God’s instrument to accomplish His will in the world.

Be God’s Somebody; don’t let Nobody get all the credit.

Think About It!

Have A Great Day!

Tom Moore
P. O. Box 107
Hamilton, Texas 76531
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

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A HORRIBLE THING HAS COME TO PASS IN THE LAND

Posted on June 16, 2015 by from the Preachers PC

A HORRIBLE THING HAS COME TO PASS IN THE LAND

“A wonderful [astonishing – NKJ] and horrible thing is come to pass in the land: the prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?” (Jer. 5:30-31). There was a terrible movement occurring in the days of Jeremiah – Israel was wandering away from the truth. They were beginning to worship idols and to rely on foreign powers for their help instead of relying on God. They had forgotten or ignored the command of the Lord on Mount Sinai, “Thou shalt have no other gods before me” (Exo. 20:3).

The attitude of Israel at this time is clearly depicted in Jeremiah 6:16-17. “Thus saith Jehovah, Stand ye in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way; and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls: but they said, We will not walk therein. And I set watchmen over you, saying, Hearken to the sound of the trumpet; but they said, We will not hearken.” As a result of this kind of attitude, Hosea on another occasion said, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I also will forget thy children” (Hos. 4:6).

Attitudes have not changed much over the last 2,500 years. There is a great many in the world today who have the same attitude as did Israel in the days of Jeremiah and Hosea, “the prophets prophesy falsely … and my people love to have it so” (Jer. 5:30-31). This is a very sad and disturbing fact. Men and women today are “claiming” to be preachers and teachers of the gospel; and yet, preach and teach error, and many of their listeners love to have that way. Today we need the same exhortation as Israel received in Jeremiah 6:16, the admonishment: 1) to STAND in God’s way – not our own way; 2) to SEE or investigate the word of God – not some man-made creed or doctrine; 3) to ASK for the OLD PATHS – not new man-made ways; and 4) to WALK in those truths.

Many today have become “sissy boys” when it comes to standing for religious truth and opposing error. It should not surprise us that many no longer stand for the truth, for the Bible told us this would happen. “But the Spirit saith expressly, that in later times some shall fall away from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of demons, through the hypocrisy of men that speak lies, branded in their own conscience as with a hot iron” (1 Tim. 4:1-2).

Let us consider a few passages that instruct us as to why it is so important to be extra-cautious not to practice or teach anything contrary to the word of God. The apostle Paul taught, “Take heed to thyself, and to thy teaching. Continue in these things; for in doing this thou shalt save both thyself and them that hear thee” (1 Tim. 4:16). Paul says that those who teach religious error – things contrary to the word of God – will be lost and will cause others to be lost! If this will not cause one to think seriously about what he teaches – I do not now what will. The apostle John said, “Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God: he that abideth in the teaching, the same hath both the Father and the Son” (2 Jn. 9). If we do not teach and practice the truth of God’s word, without addition or subtraction, we will find ourselves without God; and thus, without hope of eternal life.

Therefore, “If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God” (1 Pt. 4:11), and “speak thou the things which befit the sound doctrine” (Tit. 2:1). We need to always remember that, “every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add unto them, God shall add unto him the plagues which are written in this book: and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the tree of life, and out of the holy city, which are written in this book” (Rev. 22:18-19). “Let God be true, but every man a liar” (Rom. 3:4)

Tom Moore
P. O. Box 107
Hamilton, Texas 76531
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

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THIS IS A DAY OF GOOD NEWS

Posted on June 15, 2015 by from the Preachers PC

“THIS DAY IS A DAY OF GOOD NEWS”
2 Kings 7:9

INTRODUCTION
A. In the period of Israel’s history known as “The Divided Kingdom” (931-722 B.C.) – the nation was divided into two parts:
1. The kingdom of Israel in the north with Samaria as its capitol
2. The kingdom of Judah in the south with Jerusalem for its capitol
B. The weakened condition of both kingdoms, as a result of the division, left it open to attacks by other countries
1. Some nearby (e.g., Syria, Moab, Ammon)
2. Others from afar (e.g., Assyria, Babylon)
C. We read of one siege of Samaria in 2 Kings 6:24-29
1. This siege was orchestrated by Ben-Hadad, king of Syria
2. Which brought a terrible famine upon the city of Samaria
D. Among those suffering in the famine were four lepers
1. They discussed their plight
a. Kings 7:3-4
b. In desperation they decided to surrender to the Syrians
2. To their surprise, they found the Syrian camp abandoned … 2 Kings 7:5-7
3. At first, they splurged in their new found riches
a. 2 Kings 7:8
b. They drank/ate … hid treasures
4. But upon reflection, they knew they needed to tell others what they found, and did so … 2 Kings 7:9-11
E. There is a valuable lesson we learn from the four lepers, especially when they said: “This day is a day of good tidings (or good news) …”
F. In our study, we shall notice…
1. Some parallels between the lepers then, and ourselves now
2. The consequences of keeping silent when we have good news to share
3. Why some people may be keeping silent today
DISCUSSION
A. PARALLELS THEN AND NOW
1. In each case there is a famine
a. Then, it was a famine for food
b. Now, it is a famine of the word of God
1) As a whole people do not study the word of God as they use to
2) Yet, God has provided us with spiritual milk and meat from His word (Heb. 5:12)
c. This spiritual famine is self-induced when we fail to study the word of God … 2 Timothy 2:15
2. In each case, there is an abundance freely available…
a. Then, there was plenty of food in the Syrian camp
b. Now, there is an abundance of spiritual blessings in Christ! Ephesians 1:3 … Revelation 22:17
3. In each case, there are those who found what they needed…
a. Then, it was the four lepers
b. Now, it is the Christians who have experienced the joys of salvation!
4. But here is where the similarity often ends…
a. The lepers knew what was right, and did it
1) They knew they would be wrong by keeping silent
2) They knew punishment would befall them if they kept the good news to themselves
3) So they went back to the city and told the good news!
b. Many Christians today are not like these lepers…
1) Despite it being “a day of good news”, they remain silent!
2) While many die of spiritual starvation, they feast on the gospel!
3) Do they not consider that what they do is wrong?
5. We would do well to learn from these lepers…
a. What they said of themselves at first, may be true of us: “We do not well; this day is a day of good tidings, and we hold our peace” (2 Kgs. 7:9)
b. What else they said may also be true of us: “if we tarry till the morning light, punishment will overtake us.”
6. In reasoning among themselves, they considered the consequences of keeping silent in a day of good news. Have we considered the consequences of keeping silent with the good news of the gospel?
B. THE CONSEQUENCES OF KEEPING SILENT
1. We fail to keep the great commission
a. Jesus wanted His disciples to observe ALL that He commanded
b. Matthew 28:18-20
c. Included is the command to “Go and make disciples…”
d. Keeping silent is not what Jesus commanded!
2. We fail our mission as the people of God
a. As the privileged people of God, we are to proclaim the praises of God … 1 Peter 2:9-10
b. Especially in regards to:
1) How God “called you out of darkness into His marvelous light”
2) How we “who had not obtained mercy…now have obtained mercy”
c. How can God’s people” do this while keeping silent?
3. We will answer to God for failing our mission
a. Just as God told Ezekiel, whom He made to be “a watchman for the house of Israel”
1) Ezekiel was to warn the wicked … Ezekiel 3:17
2) If Ezekiel failed to warn the wicked, the wicked would die because of their own sin, but Ezekiel would also be held accountable! … Ezekiel 3:18-21
b. Today, the church is God’s “watchman” to the world!
1) We are to take the gospel everyone … Mark16:15
2) Those who have not heard will die in their own sin, but we will be held accountable if we gave them no warning!
4. Despite the consequences of keeping silent, many Christians do not tell others about the good news of Jesus Christ. Why is this so? Here are some possibilities…
C. WHY MANY KEEP SILENT
1. For some, it may be they are starving themselves
a. They may have experienced the joy of salvation in the past…
1) But through negligence they have failed to grow, and have forgotten the blessings of salvation … 2 Peter 1:8-9
2) In a real sense, they have returned to a state of spiritual famine!
3) Therefore, they have little or nothing to share…
b. Those who are enjoying the blessings of salvation will want to tell others
1) Even as David did in his psalm – cf. Ps 32:1-11
2) And as Philip did when he found Jesus – cf. Jn 1:43-46
c. Don’t you have any “good news” worth sharing?
2. For some, it may be out of fear or discouragement
a. If “fear” keeps us silent, remember that:
1) First place in the list of those consigned to the lake of fire are the “cowardly” … Revelation 21:8
2) God does not want us to be fearful … 2 Timothy 1:7-8
3) Boldness can come through prayer
a) Acts 4:29, 31
b) Ephesians 6:19-20
b. If “discouragement” keeps us silent, then remember:
1) The principle of sowing and reaping … Galatians 6:9
2) The example of our Lord Jesus … Hebrews 12:1-3
c. Fear and discouragement, as problematic as they may be, come be overcome with faith and perseverance!
3. For many, it may be the idea that it is too complicated
a. As though in order to teach someone, one needed:
1) A master’s degree in inter-personal communication
2) Four years of Bible in college
b. In reality, our task is really quite simple – Teach the plan of salvation
c. Sharing the “gospel” is easy, provided we:
1) Follow the words of Peter … 1 Peter 3:15
2) Follow the words of Paul
a) 2 Corinthians 4:2-6
b) Ephesians 6:19-20
CONCLUSION
A. Brethren, if we are silent with regards to the “good news” (the gospel), then the words of the four lepers is true of us … 2 Kings 7:9
B. Yes, “let us go and tell” a world that is spiritually starved about the feast God offers through His Son Jesus Christ!

Tom Moore
P. O. Box 107
Hamilton, Texas 76531
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

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THERE IS A FAMINE IN THE LAND

Posted on June 11, 2015 by from the Preachers PC

THERE IS A FAMINE IN THE LAND

Hear the words of the prophet Amos, “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord Jehovah, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of Jehovah. And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east; they shall run to and fro to seek the word of Jehovah, and shall not find it” (Amos 8:11-12). The Israelites, instead of obeying and cherishing God’s holy commandments, rejected them and trampled God’s word under foot! God was now pronouncing judgment upon Israel. Because of their hopeless condition, God planned to withdraw Himself from them. There was to be a “famine in the land,” a famine of the word of God.

There is a great and terrible famine going on in the world today. I am not speaking of the famine of food and water that we so often see in other countries, but the famine of hearing the word of God. There are billions of people who are starving for the nourishment found only in God’s word. But what is even
sadder, most people do not even realize that they are starving. As our physical bodies are unable to survive without the proper nourishment, so our spiritual bodies cannot endure without proper spiritual food. We must be “as newborn babes” who “long for the spiritual milk which is without guile, that ye may grow thereby unto salvation” (1 Pt. 2:2). It would be preposterous for a person who was starving not to eat food that was set before them. But this is exactly what the world is doing in the spiritual realm. Many are starving spiritually while spiritual nourishment sets before them. The Lord has provided us with a spiritual banquet, and yet, many refuse to partake. There is indeed a great and terrible famine in the land!

It is terrifying to realize that this spiritual famine even extends, in many cases, to those in the Lord’s church! Many in the Lord’s church have taken a few bites of nourishment in order to enter the kingdom, but once they have become Christians, they stop eating, or eat very little. The words of the Hebrew writer describes many in the Lord’s church today, “For when by reason of the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need again that someone teach you the rudiments of the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of solid food” (Heb. 5:12).

When people are under nourished physically disease becomes a terrible problem. Why? – Because the weakened body is unable to fight off germs and disease. The same holds true in the church. When there is a famine in the church, disease soon follows. When the church lacks the proper strength from spiritual nourishment the “disease of error” creeps in. When Christians do not have a good knowledge of God’s holy word, they are unable to distinguish between truth and error. Thus, “My people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge” (Hos. 4:6). We need to hearken to the words of Jeremiah, “Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy words were unto me a joy and the rejoicing of my heart: for I am called by thy name, O Jehovah, God of hosts” (Jer. 15:16). Hear also the cry of the Almighty, “But thou, son of man, hear what I say unto thee; be not thou rebellious like that rebellious house: open thy mouth, and eat that which I give thee” (Eze. 2:8). We need to eat the word of God and thoroughly digest it.

I have great sorrow for those who are starving physically. But the sorrow I feel for them can’t compare to the sorrow that I feel for those who are starving spiritually. There is a great famine in the land, but what are we going to do about it? Hear the word of the Lord, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to the whole creation. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that disbelieveth shall be condemned” (Mk. 16:15-16) and “Give diligence [study – KJV] to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, handling aright the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15). No doubt there is a famine in the land, but we can and must do something about it!

Tom Moore
P. O. Box 107
Hamilton, Texas 76531
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

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SHALL YOUR BRETHREN GO TO WAR WHILE YOU SIT HERE?

Posted on June 8, 2015 by from the Preachers PC

SHALL YOUR BRETHREN GO TO WAR WHILE YOU SIT HERE?
Numbers 32:6

INTRODUCTION
A. Prior to Israel’s occupation of the Promised Land, the tribes of Reuben and Gad wanted to settle in the land east of the Jordan
B. Their request and Moses’ response are found in Numbers 32:1-23, and have practical application to our service in the church today
C. Let’s begin our study with a review of…
DISCUSSION
A. THE HISTORICAL ACCOUNT IN NUMBERS 32
1. Reuben And Gad Express Their Desire…
a. Numbers 32:1-5
b. They were two tribes with much livestock (Num. 32:1a)
c. They saw that the land of Jazer and Gilead (the Transjordan) was good for livestock (Num. 32:1b)
d. So they requested to be given the land as their possession, and not taken over the Jordan River with the rest of Israel (Num. 32:2-5)
2. Moses Responds…
a. Numbers 32:6
1) Shall they be at ease, while their brethren must fight?
2) Was it not with their brethren’s help that the land they desire is now available?
b. How Moses viewed their request… Numbers 32:7-15
1) They would discourage their brethren (Num. 32:7)
2) They would be no different than the ten spies
a) Who discouraged Israel by their report (Num. 32:8-9)
b) Who aroused God’s anger against them (Num. 32:10-13)
3) They would be a brood of sinful men, and increase God’s anger against Israel (Num. 32:14)
4) They would in essence destroy God’s people! (Num. 32:15)
3. An Agreement Is Reached…
a. Numbers 32:16-19… Reuben and Gad offer to send their soldiers to help possess the Promised Land
b. Numbers 32:20-23… Moses agrees, but with a stern warning
1) The land they desire will be theirs if they carry through with their offer
2) But if they don’t keep their agreement…
a) They will have sinned against the Lord!
b) Be sure their sin will find them out!
4. In 1 Corinthians 10:11 we are told that what happened to Israel serves as examples to us, and were written for our admonition. With this in mind, let’s consider the following…
B. APPLICATION FOR US TODAY
1. Like Israel, We Are At War…
a. A spiritual war, to be sure – 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
b. A war against Satan, and the spiritual forces of wickedness – Ephesians 6:10-18
c. The Lord’s army (the church) fights this battle as her members serve in such areas as evangelism, edification, and benevolence
2. Much Has Been Done Up To The Present…
a. Many have stood for the truth in the past
1) Coming out of denominationalism
2) Standing firm against innovations which would lead to apostasy
b. Making it possible for us today:
1) To know the truth of God and the gospel of Jesus Christ
2) To worship God in spirit and truth
3) To enjoy the blessings of God’s family
c. But the war wages on!
1) Every thought must be brought captive to Christ – 2 Corinthians 10:5
2) We must continue to stand strong against the wiles of the devil – Ephesians 6:11
3. Shall Our Brethren Go To War While We Sit Here?
a. By lettings others do the work of the Lord’s army?
b. Shall we just sit, enjoying the efforts of others?
1) The efforts of those who labored in the past?
2) The efforts of those who labor now, making it possible for us to enjoy the blessings of fellowship and worship?
c. If not actively involved in some phase of the Lord’s work, that is exactly what we are doing – sitting idly!
4. If We Are Sitting, What Is The Effect?
a. We discourage our brethren! – Numbers 32:7
1) Who often must carry the burden alone
2) Who easily get “burned out” trying to do it all
b. Lack of involvement is just as detrimental as active opposition!
1) The slothful is a brother to him who destroys – Proverbs 18:9
2) If we do not gather, then we scatter; there is no neutral ground! – Matthew 12:30
c. Like just sitting in a wagon, instead of pulling or pushing, we hinder its progress!
5. What Will Be The End Result?
a. We will have sinned against the Lord! (Num. 32:23a)
1) For what one does or doesn’t do for the church, it affects Christ!
2) As Paul learned when he persecuted the church – Acts 9:1-5
3) Yes, when we sin against the brethren, we sin against Christ! – 1 Corinthians 8:12
b. Be sure that our sin will find us out! (Num. 32:23)
1) It will come out in the growth of the congregation
a) Proper growth is possible only if ALL are doing their part – Ephesians 4:15-16
b) Growth may occur with inactive members, but the growth will be stunted, retarded, handicapped!
2) It will come out on the Day of Judgment!
a) When we have to answer for our laziness!
b) Remember the parable of The Talents? (Mt. 26:24-30)
CONCLUSION
A. When Reuben and Gad realized the effect of sitting while their brethren went to war, they immediately made arrangements to do their part…
1. Moses was even patient with them, allowing them time to care for their families (Num. 32:24)
2. They in turn promised to do their part in going to war (Num. 32:25-27)
3. Certainly we can be patient in helping our brethren prepare for “war”, if need be
B. But may we all determine not to rest until the work is done, by resolving to be…
1. More diligent in the spiritual battle we face!
2. More active in whatever area of service for which we are best suited!
C. Let your brethren know that you desire to serve, and not just sit while others work!
D. Are you in the army of Christ, actively engaged in the service of His kingdom?

Tom Moore
P. O. Box 107
Hamilton, Texas 76531
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

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WILL YOU JUST SIT THERE?

Posted on June 4, 2015 by from the Preachers PC

SHALL YOUR BRETHREN GO TO WAR WHILE YOU SIT HERE?
Numbers 32:6

INTRODUCTION
A. Prior to Israel’s occupation of the Promised Land, the tribes of Reuben and Gad wanted to settle in the land east of the Jordan
B. Their request and Moses’ response are found in Numbers 32:1-23, and have practical application to our service in the church today
C. Let’s begin our study with a review of…
DISCUSSION
A. THE HISTORICAL ACCOUNT IN NUMBERS 32
1. Reuben And Gad Express Their Desire…
a. Numbers 32:1-5
b. They were two tribes with much livestock (Num. 32:1a)
c. They saw that the land of Jazer and Gilead (the Transjordan) was good for livestock (Num. 32:1b)
d. So they requested to be given the land as their possession, and not taken over the Jordan River with the rest of Israel (Num. 32:2-5)
2. Moses Responds…
a. Numbers 32:6
1) Shall they be at ease, while their brethren must fight?
2) Was it not with their brethren’s help that the land they desire is now available?
b. How Moses viewed their request… Numbers 32:7-15
1) They would discourage their brethren (Num. 32:7)
2) They would be no different than the ten spies
a) Who discouraged Israel by their report (Num. 32:8-9)
b) Who aroused God’s anger against them (Num. 32:10-13)
3) They would be a brood of sinful men, and increase God’s anger against Israel (Num. 32:14)
4) They would in essence destroy God’s people! (Num. 32:15)
3. An Agreement Is Reached…
a. Numbers 32:16-19… Reuben and Gad offer to send their soldiers to help possess the Promised Land
b. Numbers 32:20-23… Moses agrees, but with a stern warning
1) The land they desire will be theirs if they carry through with their offer
2) But if they don’t keep their agreement…
a) They will have sinned against the Lord!
b) Be sure their sin will find them out!
4. In 1 Corinthians 10:11 we are told that what happened to Israel serves as examples to us, and were written for our admonition. With this in mind, let’s consider the following…
B. APPLICATION FOR US TODAY
1. Like Israel, We Are At War…
a. A spiritual war, to be sure – 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
b. A war against Satan, and the spiritual forces of wickedness – Ephesians 6:10-18
c. The Lord’s army (the church) fights this battle as her members serve in such areas as evangelism, edification, and benevolence
2. Much Has Been Done Up To The Present…
a. Many have stood for the truth in the past
1) Coming out of denominationalism
2) Standing firm against innovations which would lead to apostasy
b. Making it possible for us today:
1) To know the truth of God and the gospel of Jesus Christ
2) To worship God in spirit and truth
3) To enjoy the blessings of God’s family
c. But the war wages on!
1) Every thought must be brought captive to Christ – 2 Corinthians 10:5
2) We must continue to stand strong against the wiles of the devil – Ephesians 6:11
3. Shall Our Brethren Go To War While We Sit Here?
a. By lettings others do the work of the Lord’s army?
b. Shall we just sit, enjoying the efforts of others?
1) The efforts of those who labored in the past?
2) The efforts of those who labor now, making it possible for us to enjoy the blessings of fellowship and worship?
c. If not actively involved in some phase of the Lord’s work, that is exactly what we are doing – sitting idly!
4. If We Are Sitting, What Is The Effect?
a. We discourage our brethren! – Numbers 32:7
1) Who often must carry the burden alone
2) Who easily get “burned out” trying to do it all
b. Lack of involvement is just as detrimental as active opposition!
1) The slothful is a brother to him who destroys – Proverbs 18:9
2) If we do not gather, then we scatter; there is no neutral ground! – Matthew 12:30
c. Like just sitting in a wagon, instead of pulling or pushing, we hinder its progress!
5. What Will Be The End Result?
a. We will have sinned against the Lord! (Num. 32:23a)
1) For what one does or doesn’t do for the church, it affects Christ!
2) As Paul learned when he persecuted the church – Acts 9:1-5
3) Yes, when we sin against the brethren, we sin against Christ! – 1 Corinthians 8:12
b. Be sure that our sin will find us out! (Num. 32:23)
1) It will come out in the growth of the congregation
a) Proper growth is possible only if ALL are doing their part – Ephesians 4:15-16
b) Growth may occur with inactive members, but the growth will be stunted, retarded, handicapped!
2) It will come out on the Day of Judgment!
a) When we have to answer for our laziness!
b) Remember the parable of The Talents? (Mt. 26:24-30)
CONCLUSION
A. When Reuben and Gad realized the effect of sitting while their brethren went to war, they immediately made arrangements to do their part…

Tom Moore
P. O. Box 107
Hamilton, Texas 76531
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

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