THE NEW TESTAMENT
Dennis Gulledge As children we learned that the Bible is a book of many books – 66 in all: 39 in the Old Testament, 27 in the New Testament.
In the Bible itself, these sacred writings are referred to as “The scriptures” (Jn. 5:39). “The holy scriptures” (2 Tim. 3:15). “The lively oracles” (Acts 7:38). “The oracles of God” (1 Pet. 4:11). The New Testament is inspired (1 Cor. 2:9-10; 2 Tim. 3:16-17). Peter recognized Paul's writings as “scripture” (2 Pet. 3:16). The words of Jesus are quoted as scripture (1 Tim. 5:18b; cf., Lk. 10:7).
Is the Bible a book to be understood by all? Some think not. They see the Bible under the lock & key of Holy Spirit illumination, or a privileged priesthood. They think the Bible is full of secrets, mysteries and code language. Others conclude that the Bible means whatever each individual wants it to mean. But, the Bible can be known and understood (Jn. 8:32; Eph. 5:17). One reason some do not understand the New Testament is because they have no grasp of the systematic structure of the Bible.
It is interesting that the New Testament books are arranged in precise order of the plan of salvation: The section on the life of Christ produced faith in the Son of God (Jn. 20:30-31). The history of the church shows how the gospel is to be obeyed. The letters set forth how Christian's are to live. The Revelation reveals the final victory of the saints of God. PRAYING FOR ELDERS
Tom L. Childers A medical doctor can look into a sick person's mouth and usually get some indication of the sickness a person has. In a similar way, prayers led in public worship for our elders can tell us how we view the work of these men and their relationship to the local church. Most prayers for elders ask that they “may make the right decisions.”
There is nothing wrong with the request. Elders do need wisdom to make wise decisions. However, our prayers should not be limited to decision making duties of elders because they are not just a board of directors who vote on church matters.
There are six English words (three Greek words) that describe the work of elders and give us additional insights as to how to pray for them.
Elders and Presbytery
“Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery” (1 Tim. 4:14). [All scripture references are from the New American Standard Version unless otherwise noted]. “The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching” (1 Tim. 5:17). These terms refer to men who are spiritually mature in faith, dedication and works.
Bishops and Overseers
“It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do” (1 Tim. 3:1). (The King James Version uses the word “bishop” for overseer). “Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood” (Acts 20:28). These terms refer to men who see that the things that must be done are done properly.
Pastors and Shepherds
“And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers” (Eph. 4:11). “Shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness;”(1 Pet. 5:2). These terms refer to men who feed, care for, protect, and lead God's people.
Let us pray for elders in the church. Let us pray that they will not only make good decisions, but also that they will exhibit spiritual maturity, organize the church so that things will be done properly, and feed, protect, care for, and lead God's people in paths of righteousness. [Submitted by William Boyd, one of the elders of the Mabelvale church]. VOLUME 41 NUMBER 10 MARCH 8, 2004 OUR SICK Robert Overbey had open-heart surgery on Monday (3/1) he is in the VA Hospital. His recovery is slow, continue to remember him in prayers.
Continue to remember Richard Lowe, Sam Griffith and Pauline Berry in your prayers.
Lynn Chambers is now at Lynette Murphy's home.
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SYMPATHY We extend our sympathy to Dale and Judy Morris and family on the loss of his mother, Charlie Dee Morris. Her funeral is today (Monday) here at the church building.
We also extend our sympathy to Betty Tollett and her family on the loss of her mother, Frances Crow. Her funeral is today (Monday) at Roller Ballard Funeral Home in Benton.
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TUESDAY EVENING LADIES The Tuesday evening ladies class will meet on March 23rd at 6:30 PM. The meal will be provided.
********************************* SERMONS FOR MARCH 14 Morning
How God Speaks To Man (Hebrews 1:1-4) Evening
A Garden We All Can Plant
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SEARCH
March 14 THE FIRST TWO RULES OF LIFE Some people have a strong dislike for rules or commandments, especially when it comes to religious thought. You've probably heard it said, “Life is a game.” Yes, and, the first thing about any game is to “know the rules,” wouldn't you say? Then, what are the first two rules of the game of life? Jesus knows.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS March 16……………...All Comers Class
March 23……………...All Comers Class
March 23..Tuesday Evening Ladies Class
March 30……………...All Comers Class OUR RECORD MARCH 7, 2004 A.M. WORSHIP 240
SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY 189
P.M. WORSHIP 175
WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 145 CONTRIBUTION 7244
BUDGET 6845
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MEN TO SERVE
March 14, 2004
Chuck Farris Wally Davis
James Goode Ron Douglas
Phil DePriest Brian Campbell
David Campbell Bill Gingerich
Evening
Alan Caudle
Keith Golden
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WEDNESDAY SONG DIRECTOR March 17 Michael Wilson
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USHERS FOR MARCH Morning Bill Boyd & John Boyd
Evening Gary Poole & Blake Poole
Wednesday Brad Horton & Darrell Orick
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GREETERS FOR MARCH Roger & Sue Horton
Regina & Troy Threet
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ELDER CHAIRMAN March Johnny Boyd
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