Monthly Archives: September 2007

Messrs. AC and IM meet for lunch a third time to finish up their discussion. AC: I took good notes last time. At least I thought I did. I made an appointment with my preacher to discuss these thoughts, and … Continue reading →

As I try to cope with my recovery from surgery, I find I have to take naps. I didn’t mean to fall out during today’s sermon–which was a fine sermon–but my body just needed 20 winks. It only got 2 … Continue reading →

Well, following my back surgery, I’m finally off narcotics. I’m not sure whether I’m thinking more or less clearly. But I’m sure having some strange dreams! I was still reflecting on that Christian Chronicle ad as this dream came to … Continue reading →

This month’s Christian Chronicle (October 2007) features a two-page ad from a group of Church of Christ preachers organized as NewTestamentChurchToday.org. The ad advocates a cappella music as the exclusive authorized means of worship. The purpose of this post is … Continue reading →

Let’s take a moment and reflect on what the scriptures teach us about church discipline. As you’ve seen, I like to make charts. I particularly find it helpful to break things down based on the faith, hope, love or Christ, … Continue reading →

We’ve already considered Rom. 16:17. (Rom 16:17) I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. This is … Continue reading →

This is one of the most abused verses in all of scripture (which says a lot!) (2 John 1:7, 9-11) Many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. … … Continue reading →

We generally cannot distinguish someone who is struggling with his penitence from someone who has abandoned Jesus altogether. In such cases, I think we have to give people the benefit of the doubt and assume we’re dealing with a Christian … Continue reading →

We start with a brief, but critically important, passage– (2 Thes. 3:14-15) If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed. Yet … Continue reading →

This is actually a continuation of the series of posts called “Classes on Grace.” And that’s important, because my ideas on church discipline won’t make any sense to someone with a very different understanding of grace. You see, it all … Continue reading →