A New Perspective on Old

We live in a society that rewards youth and disregards age.  It's been that way for some time.  When we were all growing up in the 50's, 60's, and 70's we all ignored this fact...we were young and in the spotlight.  Now the tables are turning.  WE are now the one's being "shuffled off to Buffalo."

There are, of course, many reasons for this shift in society.  Before WWII, old age was far more rare.  People died much earlier than people do today.  If you were, say, north of 70 during WWII, you were from very deep in the 19th century.  You would have been born 5 - 10 years after the Civil War ended.  You were sort of a "national treasure" to be honored and respected.

Somewhere in our lives collective journeys, something radically changed.  That something is called existentialism.  It is a a philosophy that is self absorbed and sees the present and the future as glorious and the home of all hope, prosperity, and improvement.  It also, at best, discredits everything and everyone from the past.  People from the past were ignorant, inferior, and immoral per the standards of today.  If you are old, you are part of the past and responsible for any and all extant societal problems.  It's time for the old to go.

BUT...what is God's perspective?  The Bible teaches us to "honor our fathers and mothers."  It tells us to respect the "gray head."  It promotes the accumulation of both knowledge and wisdom, the things that the elderly have more than anyone.  Perhaps, though, most importantly when God had a job to do He often would choose the elderly to "lead the charge," so to speak.

Moses was not called until he was 80.  Joshua became prime minister of Israel very late in life.  Abraham reached his heyday as a very old man.  David won a civil war in his old age.  Jacob didn't unite his family until his ancient years.  We could go on. But..just what is the point you might ask?

Archdale is a congregation made up of mainly, older people.  Many of us are retired.  Many of us are on Medicare and Social Security.  Many of us are moving slower these days than in the recent past.  HOWEVER,

...we are a congregation with more collective experience, more Bible knowledge, more wisdom and insight...than most congregations.  

Jesus is calling us to action!  He wants us to begin to use the talents He has been giving us over our lifetimes.  He is challenging us to "charge the hill," and not to "go to the rear."  We know more people - Jesus wants us to speak to more people.  We know more Bible - Jesus wants us to teach more Bible, and do it more often.  We have more time - Jesus wants us to use more time for Him.  We have homes - Jesus wants them to be opened up for fellowship.

We need to cease to think that "life has passed us by."  Zig Ziglar used to call this "stinkin' thinkin' " and said that "people need a check up from the neck up."  In a recent interview Justice Clarence Thomas observed that his late grandfather used to tell him; "Old man "Can't" is dead, I helped bury him."  We must change our perspective!  When companies falter, they turn to experience.  When crisis comes, it is the "old diplomat" that is called our of retirement.  When we are at the "end of our rope" we seek out the sage advise of the ancient one.

We must open our eyes to our blessings, our talents, our opportunities, our wisdom, our knowledge, our experiences, our influence, and our abundance as God has blessed us.

There was a song some time ago that expressed this sentiment: "Don't carry your blessings around as if they are burdens."  Senior citizenship is not a burden, it is a blessing and a vehicle for growth, personal growth and collective growth as well!

God wants Archdale to grow, and He's asking us to roll up our sleeves and get to work!

NOTE: Image courtesy of Bing Images.

Russ McCullough - 2 November 2017 - Mint Hill, NC - Share anywhere, anytime, and with anyone!

Pieces of Tile or Pieces of Art?

Public Domain Image Courtesy of: Bing Images

Life is perspective.  Half full or half empty?  Evolution or creation?  Random or purposeful?  Tile or art?

Mosaics have intrigued me for some time.  Plain, boring and purposeless individual tiles become engaging, purposeful and definitional together.  A community of tiles, if you please.  Mosaics are an awful lot like life. 
Life, like a Mosaic, requires a creator, a vision and a purpose.  A random pile of tiles has no purpose, no message and no inspiration.  With the reach of the artists hand randomness becomes purpose and tile becomes art.  A single tile placed by the artist may for a time appear boring, out of place and questionable to the uninformed critic.  Before the completion of the finished Mosaic, individual tiles may seem so awkward, unappealing and disquieting as to call out for their own immediate removal and discarding.  The vast majority of these scattered tiles must be put in place before a vision of the finished product can be seen.  The most talented of artists image and message may be hidden until the last few tiles are inserted.  Such is life.  Some lives defy purpose and understanding until the very last tile is placed.  Remember Sampson?  The very last act of faith in his life defined his entire life.  His Mosaic was made with the tiles of sin, arrogance and defiance.  When the final tile was placed his life took on a brand new, eternal and faithful significance that lives forever.  [Hebrews 11.32 - 34]What beautiful art out of what such ugliness!

Ironically we are all interchangeable Mosaics.  Individual tiles represent people, events and experiences that over time paint a picture of a life.  You are a tile (or more) in my Mosaic and I am a tile (or more) in your Mosaic.  God is the artist.  As we near the end of our lives the people, events and experiences paint our life's picture plainly.  The finished artwork is then hung in the hallway of remembrance by those we leave behind.  Unlike mankind who  forgets very quickly the Mosaic of a life, God never forgets!  Not only does he long to have our Mosaic in His Heavenly Hallway, he continuously pays the highest prices ever for such art.  The Blood of Jesus Christ redeems broken Mosaics out of the trash heap behind Satan's house.  As we rise from the waters of baptism Jesus Christ restores, reassembles and remakes our broken Mosaics as our sins are remitted by His Blood.  Sons of disobedience become Sons of God.  What a beautiful Mosaic, redeemed, remitted and restored!

When I was in college I was on the road to perdition.  I was bitter, lonely and without purpose.  I had grown up in my most formative years without a father.  Dad died suddenly at age 46 when I was 14.  I reeled at his loss for years.  I made many poor choices and was a "chief among sinners," having no direction most of the time.  However, there was a tile in God's Hand of which I was unaware.  Among my peers I was without friends.  Among my professors and counselors not a one saw any good in me or even a potential for good...save for Dr. Ron Bever.  During my 4 years of study only Dr. Bever took any kind of interest in me and my potential.  In fact, only he and his wife Doris ever had me in their home.  It all came as a shock to me.  He actually asked for my participation in a mission trip to Belize!  Me, non-descript me, became a missionary with Dr. Bever!  What an amazing tile in my Mosaic!  Even more amazing, two years later I was interested in a very pretty girl at church.  I began seeing her in January of 1976.  Just a few weeks later Dr. Bever asked me if I wanted to come over his place as he was having a number of young people over for a fellowship and devo one night.  Guess who was there?  You guessed right, my life long sweet heart of nearly 40 years now, my dear Nancy.  On December 23, 1976 we were married.  Who officiated?  Dr. Ron Bever, the indisposable tile in the Mosaic of my life.  God be praised!

If you are not a teacher, you can still teach by example.  If you are not a leader, you can still lead someone to a Bible study.  If you are not an elder you can still encourage a weaker brother or sister.  If you are not a deacon you can still serve another with the love of God.  If you are not a missionary, you can still pray for one, render kindnesses to one and support one.  Regardless of our talents, regardless of our perceived self worth and regardless of any other factors...we all can be tiles in the Mosaics of others as we all have the "fragrance of Christ."  [II Corinthians 2.14 - 17]  God is always looking for otherwise ugly tiles with which to make beautiful art!    

Caleb - God's 2nd Fiddle

“Caleb – God’s Second Fiddle”

“From Ulster Plantation to the Carolina’s with the Gospel!” *

Russell H. McCullough / Archdale church of Christ, 2525 Archdale Drive, Charlotte, NC 28210

www.archdale.org / gospelcall.blogspot.com - Date:

Text: Deuteronomy 1.19 - 40

Thesis: First fiddles can’t fiddle without a 2^nd fiddle!

1           Introduction

A. Source of phrase

B. Washington had his 2^nd fiddle spies

             1. The landing of the French army

             2. The saving of West Point from Benedict Arnold

             3. The stealth of Yorktown

C. Grant had two 2^nd fiddles, Sherman and Sheridan

D. Sometimes 2^nd fiddles get promoted and 1^st fiddles get demoted. 

             1. Prior to the 2^nd WW, the Filipino commander was Douglas MacArthur.  His aide?  Dwight Eisenhower.

2          Caleb spoke up for obedience before Joshua – Numbers 13.26 - 33

A. What’s right, not who’s right

B. Leadership was the result of faith, not ambition

C. He cared not for his own safety, reputation or career

3          Caleb took up his second fiddle willingly and played the same tune – Numbers 14.1 - 10

A. He tore his clothes with Joshua

B. He spoke with unison with Joshua

C. He accepted death as a consequence with Joshua

4         Caleb took up his 2^nd fiddle willingly and publically – Deuteronomy 1.34 - 38

A. He accepted that Joshua was on the platform and he wasn’t

B. He accepted that he was in the audience and Joshua wasn’t

C. He was comfortable in the 2^nd chair

5          The Meaning of the Text

A. There is no shame in the 2^nd chair

B. The 1^st chair fails without the 2nd

C. Accept elevation and demotion with equal grace

6         The Challenge of the Text

A. Am I subservient to God and others?

B. Am I ambitious to be 1^st chair?

C. Do I see my worth to God regardless of chair?

7          “The Gospel Call”

·         My fifth great uncle was Hugh Gaston who was rector at the Ballywillan Presbyterian Church (pictured above left) in County Antrim, Ulster Plantation (Northern Ireland) and wrote the most dangerous book of his time; Gaston’s Collections.  It allowed “the ploughman to know more Bible than his clergyman.”  Hugh fled to South Carolina where he died prematurely of the measles.  He is buried just one hour south of Charlotte in Chester County, S.C. in “Burnt Meeting House Cemetery.”   Uncle Hugh continues to inspire my ministry to this very day.  You can read more about Uncle Hugh here: http://www.ballywillanpci.org/rev-hugh-gaston  Ruins photo courtesy of: ballywillanpci.org.

·         On Friday night, August 12, 2016 Russ will dramatically portray the life and times of his 5^th Great grandfather, John “Justice” Gaston entitled; “A Patriot of the Revolution.” A portion of the event will cover also the life and times of his brother, Hugh Gaston.  The event will take place at the Archdale church of Christ, 2525 Archdale Drive, Charlotte, NC 28210 at 7 p.m.   The public is invited to this free presentation.

Why Church Events?

Why church events?  Let's be candid. Church events are hard work!  They require time, effort, planning and expense.  They keep us from our normal routine and they break up "normality."

We have church events because, as Christians, we have a threefold mission according to Matthew 28.18 - 20:

1. Make disciples
2. Baptize those disciples
3. Teach those disciples "all things commanded" by Jesus.

In order to "make" a disciple, we first must understand just what IS a disciple?  The word in the original Greek for "make disciples" is metheteusate, "to make learners," or to make "believing followers."  This, of course, presupposes something far more foundational...a preexisting acquaintance, a friendship of at LEAST a casual acquaintance, 

We now must ask the question; "How do we make friends?"  It's odd asking how to do something we USED to do all the time without even thinking of it or of it's definition!  We were all good at making lots of friends when we were young.  Now, not so much.  What's the difference between then and now?  The lives of young people are filled with what?  EVENTS.  You remember, club meetings, communal lunch 5 days a week with your friends, weekly sporting events, group study, holiday concerts...and...just "hanging out."  Back in the day, we all had more friends than we could count!  Now...?

What's changed?  A number of things.  Adulthood is far more of an isolated time than was school.  We work alone.  We have daily contact with fewer and fewer people as time advances.  Events become fewer and farther between.  Events that were once both common and spontaneous are now un-common and are likely contrived,  Another factor, far more difficult to cope with, is the fact that when existing friends either move away or die, we fail to replace them.  Though totally unnecessary, "old and alone" often go hand in hand,  What to do?  We can't do anything about the "old" part but the "alone" part can be dispatched completely!

Simply put, those of us who are older must "prime the friendship pump."  That requires meeting more people more often than we might be comfortable with.  Events make that process easier.  It's easier to invite a stranger, or an acquaintance to a planned event than it is to create an event specific to the same purpose.  Whatever the reasons are, people today are very reluctant to having people in their homes.  Events give us a reason to engage potential friends who can then become "believing followers."  The first step is the hardest...talking to strangers.  I think it was Will Rogers who said; "I don't know any strangers, only friends I've yet to meet."  

This is why we have events at the Archdale church of Christ in Charlotte, NC.  On June 5, 2016 we had a "Comedy Night" with Charlotte comedian, Dan Sinski/  It was a great success.  People who were strangers to us are now acquaintances.  People who had never heard the gospel, heard it.  We all became closer because we did something that fewer and fewer people are doing these days...we laughed out loud together.  "Laughter is the best medicine" we are often told.  Dr. Cyntia Thaik says this; "If you can find a reason to laugh every day, you'll find that your mood will improve, your relationships with others will seem more meaningful and effortless, and life's hurdles wont' seem so daunting.  Moreover, your body, mind and soul will reap the health benefits of the natural and free medicine." (1)  More importantly, we are all created "in the image of God."  Part of that creative genius is laughter!  God made people to laugh!

We have events so we can talk to strangers, make them acquaintances, make them friends, make them disciples, baptize them and then teach them "all things commanded."

Besides all that, who doesn't want more friends?

(1) HUFFPOST HEALTHY LIVING, "Why Laughing is Good for Your Health," March 16, 2016

Bathrooms, Politics and Christianity

Image Courtesy of: WIKIPEDIA COMMONS

21 March 2016 (Mint Hill, NC) - Several weeks ago the Charlotte City Council voted to mandate that public bathrooms be no longer gender specific.  Without going into explicit details such an ordinance will allow deviancy to become legally, though not morally, normative.  The personal privacy of individuals will be at least compromised.  The worst case, of course, is that the safety and security of individuals will be threatened.  Under the guise of "sexual orientation confusion," deviants will proceed into bathrooms of the opposite sex for less than honorable pursuits.

What should the response be to this by Christians?  

There are two possible responses.  One is to take the historical view of the early church and not engage at all in the political process.  The other is to use whatever biblical allowable means available to challenge this turn to immorality in our community.  We will here explore both options.

The first option, to do nothing, comes from a misapplication of ancient history.  First and second century Christians, according to the Roman philosopher Celsus (image noted above), refused service in the military, did not engage in any kind of empire politics and did not even participate in the running of local municipalities.  The much admired and lamented bro. David Lipscomb held this view for American church members in the 19th century.  With all due respect to our late brother, to apply Roman conditions to American conditions is simply trying to compare apples to oranges.  The "dog just won't hunt."

We should go to the Patristics (the so-called "church fathers") for history but never for theology.  For theology, we go exclusively to the Holy Writ.  Christians never participated with Rome for such a participation would constitute an "unequal yoking."  The reason being of course, is that the early Christians intuitively knew that Rome was the "Beast."  (Revelation 13)

No such designation could ever be applied today to our Nation, to our Declaration and to our Constitution.  Our Republic, like no other, acknowledges that ALL rights descend, not from other men as was the case with Rome, but from God Himself!  In fact, Peter, by inspiration tells us to "honor the king."  (I Peter 2.17)  Just who is our king in the United States?  Our king, to which we give honor, is the Declaration and the Constitution.  We give honor to our king, not by disengaging in the political process, but by embracing the political process!

Therefore, option two is biblically viable for the church today here in America.  So...how does this play out in our time and place?  

*  The biblical truth concerning Christian morality must be heralded continually from our pulpits. Namely, ALL sexual contact outside of marriage between one man and one woman for life is immoral and damnable.

*  Our approach to all parties should be one characterized by "truth in love," never with anger, rancor, threats, shoutings or any other form of personal animosity.  Our approach should be as was Christ's; "...go and sin no more."

*  Our approach must always be within acceptable legal channels such as public hearings, prearranged visits with dignitaries, letters, emails and social media.

*  Should our pleas go unheeded, then we are free to support other candidates for the city council that oppose immorality and support our Constitutional moral order.

*  Finally, Christians should be running to serve on councils, boards and commissions so immorality will no longer raise it's ugly head in our community.

NOTE:

Since I wrote this article the Governor and Legislature of North Carolina have stepped in on the side of decency and morality to overturn the Charlotte City Councils dictatorial bathroom edict.  We thank God for their quick and decisive action.

Having said that, the likelihood of a radical court "overturning" (one cannot "overturn" what is biblical, good, pure right and moral!) this state statute is very great indeed.  The deviant parties are already rumbling about this direction.  The place to have stopped this would have been on the council itself so that there never would have been a vote in the first place.

Jesus is Calling Today!

Newly discovered ancient fishing boat from the Sea of Galilee.  Image courtesy of livescience.com via Bing Images

               

It may have seemed to be just another day on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. He may have looked like any other man walking along the waterside that day.  There were3 people all around.  Fishermen, boat carpenters, net repairmen, fish processors, sail fabricators and others, like him, were out looking that day.  The man looking turned out to be no ordinary man, HE is the Incarnate Son of God!  He's looking for fishermen.  No, not ordinary fishermen, "fishers of men!|"

On this occasion, he discovers four men of usual talent for their current jobs.  Unknown to them at the time, he also sees what they don't.  He sees faith, he sees love, he sees perseverance, he sees bravery, he sees loyalty, he sees dedication, he sees men who are ready, willing and able to become...disciples, apostles, evangelists, elders and martyrs.  He not only sees what these men are in 27 A.D., he sees what these men will be in 60, 70, 80 and 90 A.D.  He is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.

One of the men Jesus is calling that day to "follow Him," is Simon Peter.  Many years later Peter recalls the events of that day to one John Mark who is by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit writing one of four gospels.  We know that book today simply as "Mark."  Mark records the events of this day in chapter 1, verses 16 through 20.  The "call" has an immediate and permanent result.  It is 100% effective, all four men answer the call.  No sales pitch, no "features and benefits" presentation, no negotiation...all four men abandon their fishing business and follow Christ.   The world has never been the same since.

Looking at these four men, one sees some qualities we need to have when Jesus calls us.  More on THAT shortly.  On that day as the waves washed ashore the four fishermen who answered the call had these characteristics:

1. They were PRESENT to hear a call.  It has been said that "90% of life is just showing up!"  In order to answer the call of Jesus, they were "present and accounted for."

2. They were OPEN to hear a call.  Their minds were not closed to new ideas.  In order to answer the call of Jesus, their minds were pliable.

3. They actually HEARD the call.  Jesus is continually saying; "He who has ears, let him hear!" In order to answer the call of Jesus, their ears had to remain open.

4. They UNDERSTOOD the call.  Words mean things.  Jesus spoke as plain as anyone ever spoke.  In order to answer the call of Jesus, they had to understand what was said.

5. They ACCEPTED the call.  It was simple; "yes or no?"  In order to answer the call of Jesus they had to accept the premise of the call.

6. They AGREED to the price of the call.  The call was expensive....everything or nothing.  In order to answer the call of Jesus they had to agree to the price of the call.

7. They PAID the price of the call!  Jesus gave them the price, they accepted the price and they paid the price.  In order to answer the call of Jesus, they had to pony up with the price...and they did!

8. They had to STAY FAITHFUL to the call.  No turning back, no second thoughts, no "but I thought..." double mindedness.  In order to answer the call of Jesus, they had to permanently attach themselves to the call.

The four fishermen left everything, everyone and every other ambition in life that they may have had just a few minutes before.  Before the call, they had jobs, they had families, they had hopes and aspirations for a "better tomorrow."  After the call, they had nothing at all except...JESUS!  Ultimately these men heard the call of Jesus that day because they "loved the Lord their God with all their heart, mind and soul...and...they loved their neighbor as themselves."  The call of Jesus defined them for all time and eternity from that moment on!

Now, you may be reading this and ask; "This is all well and good, but what does it have to do with me 21 centuries later?"  Frankly, it has EVERYTHING to do with you!  JESUS IS CALLING YOU RIGHT NOW AS YOUR EYES ROLL ACROSS THE SCREEN OF YOUR COMPUTER OR SMART PHONE.  The inspired writer of Hebrews in chapter 4 and verse 12 asserts that the Word of God is ALIVE!  It is as if the ink on the Bible in your hands is still wet and the scribe is dipping his quill in the ink for the next few words.  Jesus is the Word, the Word is Jesus.  The two cannot be separated.  Jesus is calling YOU.  Jesus is calling ME.  Jesus is calling us all continuously until the moment when we draw our last breath.  Jesus is either calling us to COME to Him, to RETURN to Him or to STAY with Him.

Matthew 11.25 - 30 - Jesus is continuously calling the unsaved sinner to set down his weary load of sin, a burden that he can never bear.  Jesus wants to exchange His burden, which is light, with ours that is so heavy as to eventually drag us into hell.  Answer this call by "calling on the Name of the Lord" in repentance and baptism as did the Pentecostians and the apostle Paul.  (Acts 2.38; Acts 22.16)

Revelation 3.20 - 21 - Jesus is continuously calling the backsliding Christian to return to his "first love" by simply opening the door of his heart and letting Jesus once again be the Lord of his life.  Answer this call by repenting and "confessing your sins one to another."  (I John 1.9)

Revelation 2.10 - Jesus is continuously calling the faithful to remain so, "unto death" if necessary.  Answer this call by focusing on this verse daily!

Now, friend, here we are.  Back in the day the TV tire commercial spoke of "where the rubber meets the road."  What will you do?  Jesus is calling YOU!  What will you do?  Will you get back in your boat of sin or jump out, run to shore and follow Jesus?  He's calling!

1766 - 2015 "From Passion to Passivity"

Ruins of Ballywallin Presbyterian Church, County Antrim, Ulster Plantation, ca. 1748 – Image Courtesy Ballywallin Presbyterian Church

 

Five generations ago, Hugh Gaston risked it all…and paid it all.  He fled home, hearth, church and family risking everything for the freedom of reading, teaching and living the precepts of the Holy Scriptures.  After attending an annual conference of ministers in 1766 he disappeared for nearly four months.  Suddenly he reappeared in South Carolina, sought out his brother, John “Justice” Gaston of Chester County and set out for the back country to begin a new ministry.  He preached just one or two sermons, then falling ill with the measles.  He was dead within a month of his arrival.  He is buried next to his brother and sister in law in Burnt Meeting House Cemetery just an hour’s drive south of Charlotte, NC.  John wrote a letter home to his widow, Mary Gaston, and children telling of Hugh’s tragic demise.  Hugh’s family stayed in Ulster and never came to America.

These freedoms that Hugh risked everything for had eluded the Gaston family for generations.  Long before Hugh was born the Gaston family searched for the truth of the gospel with the Huguenots of France.  Roman Catholicism was the state religion there in the 16^th century.  The Gaston’s, under persecution from Rome, fled France for Scotland where they associated themselves with the Reformed Presbyterianism of John Knox.  Here too, they faced persecution, not from Rome but from London.  The English, having subdued Scotland, were determined to force the Scots back into Romanism under Queen Mary and then into Anglicanism under Elizabeth I and James VI.   Scotland was under the boot of the tyrannical English, land was scarce and times were hard.  After several generations, the family sought a better life across the Irish Sea in what was then called Ulster Plantation, now known as Northern Ireland.  Here they found more, better and cheaper land. However, they did not find the religious freedom that they so desperately longed for.

Ulster Plantation was designed by the English as an enclave where both Scots and English would settle Irish Catholic lands and eventually cause the Irish to give up their resistance to English rule.  The plan backfired and the repercussions of this 400 year old plan are still resounding today in the streets of Northern Ireland.  The Gaston’s faced the hatred of the displaced Irish Catholics and the persecution of the English Anglicans.  It was literally a “stress sandwich.”  However, early in the 18^th century, these displaced Ulster Scots began immigrating to a new land that promised it all – freedom of religion, free land and unbridled prosperity in a land “flowing with milk and honey,” AMERICA.  John and Esther Waugh Gaston along with two small daughters came to Pennsylvania before 1740.  By 1754, the expanding family found their way south through the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, through the Yadkin Valley of North Carolina, ending up in the rolling piedmont hills of upstate South Carolina.  John became the top law officer on the frontier, the so-called “Kings Justice.”  He also became the most successful surveyor of land in all the upstate.  Here they would prosper in freedom and liberty.  John and Esther would eventually have 13 children, all of which lived to adulthood, a blessing unheard of in that day and time.  The only thing they lacked in the upstate were trained preachers for all the Scot – Irish, as we are called here in America.  Hugh Gaston was not only a trained minister, he was the most brilliant Presbyterian scholar of his age.  No wonder John was so excited to greet his brother on his way to Chester from Charleston when he arrived in 1766.

Hugh Gaston was a dangerous man to the English, perhaps the most dangerous man in all of Scotland and Ireland.  Why?  Hugh had in 1763 published a book, a book that threatened every Catholic and every Anglican in Ulster.  It was book that, for the first time, provided the common man the tools needed for deep Bible study.  Now the Ulster ploughman could within a very short period of time, know more Bible than any Catholic or Anglican “clergyman.”  It was simple, yet brilliant.  The book was a combination systematic theology, concordance and topical Bible.  It became a bombshell!  The name of the book?  A Scripture Account of the Faith and Practice of Christians.   

The publication of this book apparently cost Hugh everything.  By 1766 he found himself broke and disgraced.  Because he so soon died upon arriving in the new world, he left no information as the exact circumstances of his sudden departure.  One thing is for sure.  This book cost Hugh everything.  He lost his family.  He lost his position.  He lost his wealth.  He lost his life.  He lost these things so that anyone could study the Bible for themselves.

Though Hugh Gaston, as far as we know, never discovered the complete truth of the gospel, he searched for it diligently and gave everything so that others could take that journey as well.  He was a man of great passion and love for the truth.

Now, one year shy of 250 years, the passion of Hugh Gaston has been replaced by passivity.  “Christians” today have grown passive, lazy and unconcerned with the study, the teaching and the living of the Scriptures.  Bibles sit unopened on the shelf or travel without use in the back seats of automobiles.  People today are passive towards the claims of Holy Scripture and are ashamed of what it says.  What Hugh Gaston died for in 1766, people in 2015 could not care less about.  How about you?  Are you passionate or passive?

Hugh Gaston is my great uncle, five times removed.  I have a reprinted copy of his book I can show you anytime.  John Gaston is my great grandfather five times removed.  He and Esther gave four sons in death during the War for Independence, their home, their possessions and their freedom.  All nine of their sons served the cause of liberty.  At 80 years of age, John Gaston died in his sleep, still being pursued by the English.  He had two loaded pistols under his pillow and a loaded musket at this bedside as he passed into eternity.

-          Russ McCullough

 

The Apostle Paul Was A Paid Preacher!

 

There are those that decry the idea that is biblical to pay preachers.  It is assumed that since the gospel is free, those who dispense it must do so without a salary from the church.  It is assumed, as well, that any gospel preacher must be self supported and not receive any compensation from 3rd parties for his labor in God's vineyard.  Thirdly it is assumed to prove all of this all one has to do is to examine the ministry of Paul the apostle.

Sadly, those who would embrace the above assumptions have failed to read and understand Acts 27 and 28.  Acts 27 is the historical account of Paul's journey to Rome interrupted by a shipwreck on Malta.  Acts 28 details Paul's post Malta journey to Rome.  We will refer to two verses in these two chapters to dispense the assumptions of those who would deny many a man the freedom to preach the gospel.

First, Luke asserts in Acts 27.3 that Paul was allowed to go ashore at Sidon for a specific purpose.  That purpose was to "refresh himself" from his friends.  What does that mean?  It means that Paul received support for his journey.  In Roman times prisoners had to provide for their own sustenance while in prison, the state provided nothing but confinement.  Every resource had to be provided for the prisoner by 3rd parties or death would soon come.  At Sidon, Paul was "refreshed" by his friends with everything he needed for a long sea voyage.  That would include food, clothes, beddings, medicine and money.  Paul was a paid preacher!

Secondly, it is stated in Acts 28.30 - 31 that Paul, while in Rome, stayed in "his own hired house" where he "received all who came," "preached the gospel," and "taught those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ."  Where did Paul get such funds as to rent a house in Rome for two years while he was under house arrest awaiting trial?  The answer is clear, Paul was a paid preacher!

Let's get real.  Those who would deny the gospel preacher an income are being blatantly hypocritical unless they themselves hire the poor brother themselves for some kind of secular endeavor so that he can then preach the gospel.  Such an arrangement would be foolish indeed for what would then suffer?  The gospel would suffer!  The preacher would be spending 40 plus hours a week working elsewhere, barely getting off a sermon or two with his spare time.  That time would be exhausted by the secular endeavors of his "benevolent" employer.

Those who would deny the gospel preacher a living to protect a "principle" unsupported in Scripture are "straining the gnat in order to swallow the camel!"

Congregations who have a located and employed preacher do not pay the man to preach, they pay the man SO HE CAN PREACH!

May God richly bless those men who devote themselves to preaching the gospel and those congregations that make it possible for them to do so!





Wine is a Mocker & Strong Drink is Raging

Can or should the Christian purchase and consume beverage alcohol?  One is, first of all, reminded of a conversation in Jurassic Park.  While discussing the "merits" of "bringing back" the dinosaur, it was noted that "just because we can doesn't mean we should."

We can apply this principle to the Christian's consumption of "Noah's folly."  "Technically," a Christian can purchase and consume beverage alcohol within certain guidelines outlined by Paul in Romans 14.  These principles apply to eating meat, drinking wine or anything else that causes a brother to stumble (14.21)  Here they are:

• A Christian can consume beverage alcohol as long as he does not "despise the one who abstains." 14.3
• A Christian can consume beverage alcohol as long as he does so "to the honor of God."  14.6
• A Christian can consume beverage alcohol as long as he is "ready to give an account to God" for so doing.  14.12
• A Christian can consume beverage alcohol as long as he is 100% absolutely certain that by so doing that it will not place a "stumbling block" before any other Christian.  14.13
• A Christian can consume beverage alcohol as long as he is 100%  absolutely certain that by doing that it will not cause a "hindrance" to any other Christian.  14.13
• A Christian can consume beverage alcohol as long as he is 100% absolutely certain that by so doing no other Christian is "grieved."  14.15
• A Christian can consume beverage alcohol as long "as what he regards as good is not spoken of as evil."  14.16
• A Christian can consume beverage alcohol as long as that pursuit "makes for peace and mutual upbuilding."  14.19
• A Christian can consume beverage alcohol as long as it "does not destroy the work of God."  14.20
• A Christian can consume beverage alcohol as long as he "has no doubts" and that the act "proceeds from faith."  14.23

There we have it!  A Christian can, in fact, purchase and consume beverage alcohol when in compliance with biblical guidelines described by the inspired apostle Paul.  Having said that, the guidelines are stringent and nearly impossible.  The legal limit of blood alcohol in most states is .08%.  Many people can meet that mark with as little as one can of beer or one glass of wine.  What is the Christian who wants to consume wine with their meals to do?

 For those Christians who want to protect both their conscience and their ambassadorship, there is a wine alternative.  It is called NON - alcoholic wine!  One vendor that provides such products is none other than Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).  Check it out for yourself at http://maddvirgindrinks.com/ or, better yet, just pick you up some Welch's (TM) http://www.welchs.com/products/sparkling-cocktails sparkling grape juice products at your local grocery store.

 

Dear Christian friend; "Why consume poison when you can have the flavor MINUS the poison?"   "Why risk your conscience before God?"  "Why place your ambassadorship at risk?"   

 

Just What Is Biblical Preaching?

A  Bible question deserves a Bible answer!  Paul clearly and emphatically states:

 

“For if I preach the gospel, there is nothing for me to boast about, for necessity is pressed upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!” – I Corinthians 9.16 (EMTV)

 

It is very and abundantly clear that Paul was under a tremendous focus to preach the gospel, the proclamation of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  It is preached for the express purpose of saving those “who call upon the Name of the Lord for salvation” by repentance and baptism in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.  (Acts 2, Acts 9, Acts 22 et. al.)

 

Today marks what would have been the 117^th birthday of my grandfather, Clyde Larimore Taylor.  He was born on June 6, 1896 in Beech Grove, KY.  Brother Taylor was a Christian, a missionary and a gospel preacher.  He was and IS my mentor.  Being able to see him again in Heaven continually motivates me to always “preach the gospel both in and out of season.” He once said to me; “Russell, if I can take my lesson down the street to the denominational church and get “amen’s,” its NOT gospel!”  It is fitting, therefore, to explore the question; “Just what is biblical preaching?” on this,  his 117^th birthday.

 

ANY sermon that proclaims this gospel is by default…biblical!  Sadly, ALL denominational preaching is non-biblical for it is accursed as Paul asserts in Galatians 1.6 – 9.  Preaching within the Fellowship of the Saints, as well, often falls short of the high standard of biblical preaching.  Let’s examine some examples of this kind of preaching:

 

Biblical preaching is not a topic in search of a text.  Biblical preaching is not shallow.  Biblical preaching is not “story telling.”  Biblical preaching is not a text in search of a meaning.  Biblical preaching is not just social commentary.  Biblical preaching is not just a review of current events.  Biblical preaching is not pop psychology.  Biblical preaching is not selective.  Biblical preaching is not random.  Biblical preaching is not just reflective.  Biblical preaching is not simply engaging.  Biblical preaching is not entertaining.  Biblical preaching is not relevant for relevance’s sake.  Biblical preaching is never pragmatic.  Biblical preaching is not a mantra or a narrative.  Biblical preaching is not without an application.  Biblical preaching is not without a call to action.  Biblical preaching does not play on one’s emotions for emotions sake.  Biblical preaching is not man generated or man focused.  Biblical preaching is not allegorical.  Biblical preaching is not without a clear text within context.  Biblical preaching is not without a contextual theme.  Biblical preaching is not without a contextual thesis.  Biblical preaching is not without a conclusion.

 

Even among the most faithful of congregations in the Lord’s church, one often finds sermons that are random, shallow, without theme, without thesis, lacking direction, void of purpose, out of context.  Essentially lukewarm spiritual rice water is often fed to the flock while steaming hot “meat and potatoes” remain left behind in the kitchen.

 

What characteristics, then, would we ascribe to biblical preaching?

 

·       (Biblical preaching) express(es) exactly the will of the glorious Sovereign – allow(ing) God to speak, not man.

·       (Biblical preaching) brings the preacher into direct and continual contact with the mind of the Holy Spirit who authored Scripture (through the Scripture.)

·       (Biblical preaching) frees the preacher to proclaim all the revelation of God, producing a ministry of wholeness and integrity.

·       (Biblical preaching) promotes biblical literacy, yielding rich knowledge of redemptive truth.

·       (Biblical preaching) carries ultimate divine (and apostolic) authority…

·       (Biblical preaching) transforms the preacher, leading to transformed congregations.[1]

 

When the gospel is proclaimed BIBLICALLY, individuals are saved, families are reunited, congregations are revived, communities are transformed and nations are restored!

 

-        Russ McCullough – 6 June 2013

Happy Birthday bro. Clyde Taylor!

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[1] John MacArthur (Rediscovering Expository Preaching, W Publishing Group, a Division of Thomas Nelson, Inc., Nashville, TN), Introduction, pg. XV

Our First Family Reunion!

Remember those family reunions of summers gone by? Remember meeting your long lost aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, nieces…not to mention those relatives “several times removed?” I always wondered who removed them and why? (I digress!) Keeping up with family members we rarely see can be challenging! What is NOT challenging is the fun, fellowship and love that we experience when we “all get together.” I remember the summer of 1977 when Nancy and I, married just 8 months, went to the Turnbull family reunion in Tacoma, WA. For the first time I understood the meaning of the word “slew,” as in, “a slew of relatives!” I also enjoyed for the first time fresh caught salmon cooked on a barbecue grill. What a feast! It was great! I’m sure you have had similar experiences. In many ways our families define who we are. More importantly, our spiritual family defines who we are, not only for now, but for all eternity!

We are, as Christians, all part of Abraham’s family as noted in Galatians 3:29: “And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to the promise.” Pretty impressive! We can trace our family tree back some 4,000 years! The family of Abraham is the greatest family ever! What a blessing to be part of THAT family! When the family of Abraham, in the 3rd generation, had but 70 people…they had a reunion! What a reunion it was!

Because of the sin of the brothers of Joseph, the family had experienced decades of hurt, heartache and misery. Finally, when Judah and his brothers repented of the wrongs they had done to their brother by selling him into slavery and then lying about it to their father Jacob, the family was reunited down in Egypt! Joseph and Pharaoh treated our family to the very best Egypt had to offer…up to and including the entire land of Goshen! Three important lessons were experienced by God’s family (our family!) on that occasion, that repentance and obedience lead to God’s blessing, that thanksgiving is the key to God’s blessing and that we have all been given a ministry of blessing for others. Let's examine further:

1) REPENTANCE & OBEDIENCE LEAD TO GOD'S BLESSING - In Genesis 46 we learn that when Judah and his brothers repented of their sins against Joseph and Jacob, the blessings of God that had been dammed up for decades came gushing forth like water pouring through a broken dike! God took the family from famine to plenty, from the desert to Goshen and from guilt to forgiveness!

2) THANKSGIVING IS THE KEY TO GOD'S BLESSING - In Genesis 47:29-31 we find that the broken hearted Jacob, now at the end of his days, was finally able to worship God with a thankful heart. For years he had grieved his losses and his faith was blinded by circumstances. Now, after the repentance of his sons he could clearly see God’s will in his life and worshiped God upon learning that Joseph would grant his fondest wish…to be buried with the family in Canaan. He died 17 years later a thankful man.

3) GOD GIVES US ALL A MINISTRY OF BLESSING TO OTHERS - Finally, the family learns that their odyssey winds up being a blessing to them, to Pharaoh, to Egypt, to the entire known world at that time…and to all nations for all time! (Genesis 47:7-12) By preserving Jacob’s family through the faithfulness of Joseph, God sponsored this most wonderful family reunion! Through the suffering of the family of God, the family was preserved through the famine, the Egyptian nation was preserved through the famine and other nations were preserved through the famine. Most importantly, Judah was preserved for Jesus Christ to come into the world! In a most fascinating and wonderful way, God was thinking of you and I…way back then in our very first family reunion! You may ask, "Just what is my ministry of blessing today?" Jesus clearly tells us what it is in Matthew 28:1-20 - "All authority hath been given unto me in heaven and on earth. Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." (ASV) The greatest thing about our "family reunion" is that we can invite any and everyone! Won't you join us at our next "reunion" next Lord's Day at the church of Christ? We will be looking for you!

For a FREE Bible Study e-mail : rmcculls6@bellsouth.net!