There are many who have been ill taught, others have been purposefully mislead to believe the the churches of Christ teach instruments of music are sinful. That is simply not true. Preachers, members of the churches of Christ never said such, never taught such and this lesson should eliminate such misconception. Listen as we teach what we do and don’t believe about the instrument. 

So many times, and I cannot count, I have heard the words “Show Yourself Strong God”. In prayers offered up by good brethren to our omnipotent God. . .In writings and publications from brethren concerning the power of God as recorded all throughout the history of man. . .And of course, in the scriptures…that record many great and awesome events that only an all powerful God could accomplish. Today our lesson titled Show Yourself Strong has two parts: We will see this phrase applies not only from man toward God—but also from God toward man. First, we will consider some of the ways that scripture records how God Shows Himself Strong. Secondly, we will close with a few ways each of us must show ourselves strong in Christ. The psalmist David speaking to God’s glory. . .

Listen to what the word of the LORD has to say Man’s strength alone has never been sufficient “the way of man is not in himself” (Jer. 10:23). “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death” (Prov. 14:12). Jesus said that “apart from Me you can do nothing” (Jn. 15:5). But with our God, our Mighty Fortress, “all things are possible” (Matt. 19:26). I one of my favorite verses, is Romans 8:31 “If God is for us, who can be against us?” God indeed is a mighty fortress. So the psalmist said, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear” (Psa. 46:1-2). 

The debate over works and faith will never end and the reason is simple enough, people listen to people instead of God. Most people will attend a church of their choice, listen to the preacher year after year. Attend bible studies, and never question the teaching. Never comparing what is taught against what God’s word teaches. This resulted in generations of followers of men. Sadly, This spawns a plethora of confusion when leaders of other denominations make unjust, untrue claims. So, why are people teaching this? Possibly some are just mistaken over the differences between works of faith and works of merit. But more often there is a sinister reason that is born of hate. That’s right, many denominational leaders believe the churches of Christ are cults, filled with false teaching, yet only because of their lack of knowledge concerning why we believe the things we do. As for being saved by works, this lesson will. . .

The city is under siege, the powerful army outside the gates! No food, what will we do? This account that is recorded in 2 Kings chapter 6 is one for the record. Probably the bleakest and most horrific story in all the biblical record, short of judgement day, when all who refused Christ’s invitation will be cast into Hell for eternity. But here in this account from the Old Testament, the king hears a cry for help from a mother who became so desperate that she cooked her own son and . . .

Many religious leaders on a regular basis falsely claim a number of things that the “Churches of Christ Believe or Don’t Believe”. On such accusation is that “We believe the instrument is sinful”. This lesson is designed to refute that notion and explain what we do believe. As usual, and in all these lessons, the Bible will be the basis for our belief. . .

Peter said we must be, “clothed with humility”. The Greek verb is a rare, used only by Peter and means, “tie yourselves up in humility.” According to Robinson this refers particularly to a long white apron, or outer garment, that was commonly worn by slaves. Maybe Peter used this word to stress this point and cause the saints to take note., as your Lord and Christ was humble, you also must be.  Jesus is the only Head of the church and there are no hierarchies below Him.  No exalting of people one over another, he says clothe yourselves with humility, and serve one another with it.  Recognize where we stand before God—we are all equally lost or equally saved, no one is more important…

“Uzziah was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned fifty-two years in Jerusalem. His mother’s name was Jecholiah of Jerusalem. 4 And he did what was right in the sight of the Lord” (2 Chronicles 26:3). Yes Uzziah was young when he became king, but at the age of sixteen it was still amazing to read from the word of the Lord that he “did what was right in the sight of the Lord”.  In fact Uzziah’s “fame spread far and wide, for he was marvelously helped till he became strong” (v.16). And thus the problem, Uzziah’s pride got the best of him, and as a result “. . . when he was strong his heart was lifted up, to his destruction, for he transgressed against the Lord his God by entering the temple of the Lord to burn incense on the altar of incense” (v.16). We need to learn from this king. Learn by his mistakes so that we don’t become filled with pride and become useless to the Lord. 

This verse the direct contradiction to the “world’s religious view” that Christianity is all about being released from trials. Peter says this in not going to be easy people. What are you saying Peter? Peter said, it is going to be a “firey” ordeal—That does not sound like a cakewalk—in fact that is scary. The word used for fiery—is not just a usual fire. The word is [πύρωσις] poo’ ro’ sis: Referring to a [a refining] fire such as is used to in metals. Proverbs 25:4 “Take away the dross from silver, and it will go to the silversmith for jewelry”. This kind of fiery trial is different from a campfire – like on the isle of Malta where the natives showed kindness and kindled a fire to make Paul and the others welcome. You could liken it more to the trial that “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego” experienced—not so much the fire—but the persecution they faced. That is what Peter is describing here—and he is saying brethren—don’t be surprised – don’t think it strange, do not be surprised that you will no doubt go through fiery trials—that will not be pleasant. Fiery trials that will refine you and change your life forever…

Sadly, many people have been misinformed about what the Church of Christ believes and what it teaches. In this series we will address some of these false narratives such as the churches of Christ teach that people are saved by water baptism. It does not! In fact I have never heard a preacher of the Gospel as much as even insinuate such. l will however explain the role that baptism plays in our salvation. I will by the scripture show that we are not saved by any one thing. Not saved by faith only, nor prayer only, nor grace only. We will use the word of God to answer the question what must I do to be saved?