Beech Tree News Network

The Bible is a unique book. While scientifically, geographically, mathematically, archaeologically, astronomically, and historically true, the main focus of the Bible is the redemption of man’s soul (Gen. 3:15; Lk. 19:10). God has given to us “all things that pertain to life and godliness” (II Pet. 1:3). God’s word completely equips us in this life, and this word will judge us one day (II Tim. 3:16-17; Jn. 12:48). His word guides us by pointing out when we are wrong, when we are right, and what to do to stay right! Is there any wonder why the Bible is referred to as “The Book of Books”?

I cited those passages to make it clear that God has provided all the information necessary for us to get from earth to Heaven! The Bible has been “once and for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3). The word is true (Jn. 17:17); and the gospel will save us (Rom. 1:16). The question before us then, is whether or not we will apply the information God has given us to our lives!

Jesus said the man who hears and does is a wise man (Matt. 7:24-27). He said the ones who will see Heaven are those who “do the will of my father which is in Heaven” (Matt. 7:21). James wrote that a man who hears and does is a “blessed man” (Jas. 1:25). He further wrote that “faith without works is dead” (Jas. 2:17, 20, 26). In other words, when it comes to the will of God, we do not lack the information. What we lack is the application!

Throughout history, application is what separated God’s children from the world! Many people have heard God’s word. Pharaoh, for example, heard God’s word, but “hardened his heart” (Ex. 7:14, 22, 8:15, 19, 32, 9:7, etc.), and was punished as a result of his pride. Many of the “chief rulers” in Christ’s day knew the truth but refused to obey. They refused to confess Him because they feared what the Pharisees would say (Jn. 12:42-43). Another who fits this description was Agrippa. He knew the truth, but would not confess Christ, nor be baptized (Acts 26:27-28). These people were not ignorant of the truth! Yet, they were condemned because they did not act upon what they knew! In like manner, II Thessalonians 1:6-9 reveals that one day the Lord will return and “take vengeance” on folks who “know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.” In other words, some will be condemned for their willful ignorance, and others will be condemned for not applying what they know!

What about us? What is stopping us from being what God would have us to be? I suggest that it is not so much a matter of information, but it is a matter of application! Some just do not want to do what Christ has said. Shame on us for being that way! Let us listen to the Lord (Jn. 14:15; I Jn. 5:3). Let us prepare ourselves for Heaven by applying the information God has revealed to ourselves! In so doing, we will be a blessed people! (Jas. 1:25)

-- You are invited to visit with the Caneyville church of Christ. Times of services: Sun.: 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 5:00 pm; Wed.: 7:00 pm. Website: http://caneyvillechurchofchrist.com Tune in to our radio program 101.5 FM at 5:30 am, Mon-Fri. Questions? Call: (270) 589-4167