“The ground is level at the foot of the cross.” The quote has been attributed to a famous denominational preacher. A search for its origin revealed several sermons and articles, including strong words against it. What does the metaphor communicate? The statement does not speak to the terrain of Calvary’s hill. Instead, it communicates equal […]
Author: bumchecks
The Power of Faith
When a young shepherd boy bent down and picked up five smooth stones from a flowing brook the history of a nation changed, and a great warrior and king was born. The story is legendary. Every leader, teacher, salesman, soldier and athlete, Christian and non-Christian, knows of it and is inspired by it, the story […]
WHY CHURCHES WON’T GROW
This is loaded question that has seen much ink spilled (or keypads struck) attempting to answer. The church is stuck in the past; too slow to navigate the ever-changing cultural landscape; too racist or scandal plagued; too institutional; too conservative; too progressive; their worship is out-of-touch; too political; aging out; irrelevant; etc. and etc. All […]
Why I am a Member of the Church of Christ
The late Leroy Brownlow published a book in 1945, Why I Am A Member of the Church of Christ. In just under 200 pages, bro. Brownlow lists and explains twenty five reasons he practices “undenominational” Christianity. The book is available in our church library and would benefit anyone who chose to read it. Here are […]
Camouflage
We are all familiar with camouflage, or ‘camo’ as we like to call it. We most commonly see it when hunters are preparing to hit the field in search of game. But this special clothing was originally perfected by the military. The main idea, of course, is to blend in with your surroundings so that […]
How Is Your Vision?
How is your vision? Jesus observed that . . . Some have envious eyes, longing for the material advantages they see others have (Matthew 20:15). Some have sensual eyes, looking to lust, thereby committing adultery in their hearts (Matthew 5:28-29). Some have critical eyes, looking for specks in others while ignoring obvious problems in themselves […]
Brotherly Love – The Real Test
What kind of people were the Christians of the first century? Were they “super-Christians,” totally dedicated, so devoted to the Lord that they would put twentieth century Christians to shame? We tend to think so. And if we look only at the Christians of Jerusalem before the church was scattered, our conclusions will be well […]
Demonstrating Our Love
Here’s a challenge for you: Try to explain what love is without stating what it does. Consider that for a minute, and you will surely agree that it is nearly impossible. Husbands and wives, think back to when you were courting you mate. Feelings of love were on your mind continually. Agree? But what do […]
The Importance of Bible Study
a. The sacred writings are able to give us the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus (2 Tim. 3:15). b. The Scriptures make us complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Tim. 3:16-17). c. Faith comes by hearing the word of God (Rom. 10:17). d. The gospel is God’s power […]
Sober Minded in Every Sense of the Term
Researchers at the University of California San Diego reviewed 14 years of accident data and found that “A blood alcohol concentration of just 0.01 percent was associated with risky behaviors such as speeding.” Lead researcher, David P. Phillips, Ph.D. says, “For a 180 pound person, that translates to one glass of wine or a bottle […]