The Alarming Sentence!

James Smith, 1802—1862

"A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it — but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard: For three years now I've been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree — and haven't found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil!" Luke 13:6-7

No place is as dangerous for an unconverted person, as the church of God. It is to be feared that many join the church before they are truly converted; and yet very, very few — are ever converted after.

How Spiritual Power Is Lost

One of the strangest and saddest stories of the Old Testament history is that of Samson. It is also one of the most instructive. He was by far the most remarkable man of his day. The grandest opportunities were open to him, but after striking temporary victories, his life ended in tragic failure – all through his own inexcusable folly.

Time and again it is said of him that "the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him," and in the power of that Spirit he wrought to the astonishment of his people and the discomfiture of the enemies of the Lord. But in Judges 16:19-20, we see him deserted of the Lord, though unconscious of it, his strength gone from him and he about to be taken into wretched captivity, the sport of the godless, and to die with the enemies of the Lord a violent and dishonored death. 

Come Out From Among Them

Therefore, come out from among them (unbelievers) and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you. 2 Cor. 6:17

Be separate!
This involves more than just gathering together for a couple of hours on Sunday mornings. In many cases, the gathering is of believers AND unbelievers. What fellowship is THAT?

The Virgin Birth and The Resurrection

Invariably, around the dinner table with family or at some outdoor venue with strangers, a believer is challenged with someone’s declaration, “I don’t believe in God.” This could arise out of general conversation about religion, as a counterpoint in which no one ever agrees, or as direct opposition in response to “Let’s pray” (say grace) before dinner, or as an intentional provocation or confrontation to the believer’s faith. This is the kind of defiance, on an unbeliever’s part, that develops from fear... fear of the unknown.

Romans 1:18-32

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.