March 4, 2001


Volume XXI - Number 9  

Heart Problems
Coleman K. Allmond (via Firm Foundation - Jan. 2001)


Every problem in our society today is a heart problem. Morality has to do with the mind and emotions of the human creature.

The scriptures place emphasis on the heart:

  • As one thinketh in his heart so is he (Proverbs 23:7).
  • Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life (Proverbs 4:23).
  • Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh (Matthew 12:34).
  • The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked (Jeremiah 17:9).
  • For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness and blasphemies; these are the things which defile a man (Matthew 15: 19-20).

Morality is the code of conduct by which we determine principles of right and wrong. The moral system of Christ addresses the intellect of humans.

Without divine direction man is unable to provide a code of conduct that meets all needs, of all people, for all time (Jeremiah 10:23). Nothing in the history of mankind has come remotely near the revealed moral code of Jesus. John Locke correctly said: "To give a man full knowledge of true morality, I would send him to no other book than the New Testament."

We are to imitate Christ (1 Corinthians 11: 1). His life is an example of Godliness, holiness and purity (Titus 2:12; 1 Peter 1:15-16; 1 John 3:3; Matthew 5:8). As the offspring of God (Hebrews 12:9), we have a common origin, face similar problems and the same destiny in that we will all be judged by the same standard. Jesus' code of right conduct is universal and age lasting.

Jesus' system of morality is based on two great fundamentals - love God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind, and love thy neighbor as thyself (Luke 10:27).

The morality of Jesus views people as essentially good, but still requires self-control and sacrifice (Colossians 3:5-10; Galatians 2:20). We are weak and temptation is sometime strong, and we therefore must dominate the flesh for the good that is in us to prevail.

The moral code of Jesus Christ has stood the test of time. Men of every nation and rank have praised its grandeur. No other code has equaled its power to reform and elevate mankind and nations. It is as relevant today as when first given because it came from heaven. Its heavenly origin presupposes an author of unlimited knowledge, totally just, right and good, therefore with the Psalmist David and the spiritual song we can sing:

How precious is the Book divine, By inspiration given! Bright as a lamp its precepts shine, to guide my soul to heaven. Holy Book divine! Precious treasure mine! Lamp to my feet and a light to my way, To guide me safely home.


AM SERMON:
"In Him"
(Ephesians 1:3)
PM SERMON:
"Why Study The Bible?"
(2 Timothy 2:15-16)

Restored
We rejoice with the angels in Heaven at the response of Patricia Hawks this past Sunday morning. Sister Hawks came forward confessing sin in her life and asking for the prayers of the congregation on her behalf. God has promised His forgiveness to those who will repent and we all receive strength from her courage to do His will.

Personal Work Group
The Personal Work Group is scheduled to meet tonight after the evening worship services in Assembly Room "B". Members of that group should plan to attend.

The Bulletin Board
There are several Gospel Meetings and other area activities posted in the foyer.

TONIGHT!!

  • We meet for prayer each Sunday evening at 5:30 in room #3.
  • The youngsters meet at 5:40 in the auditorium for stories and songs.
  • SPECIAL! After the evening worship, the youth of our number (ages 11-22) will have a devotional in the annex. They will also be enjoying pizza and should bring a couple of dollars if possible.

This "be-like-the-crowd" philosophy has tremendous appeal. It has engulfed multitudes. It can engulf you too. Yet the bible teaches that the multitudes are going to be lost. See Matthew 7:13.

Charlie & Betty Dupree, Jasper Sims, Cliff Powell, Ervin & Alma Eubanks
Frances Deaton, Don & Sheila Adkins, Sue Church, Norris Clark, Brice Oliver,
Robert Cox, Earl & Vernon Wilkes, Roger Reece, Vera Barber,
Mel Chambers, Vannie Dowdy, Frances Austin, Margaret Duh, Joe Chambers,
Mona Howard, Sherry Hobbs, Linda Thompson, Karen Bauer,
Alzonio Rhodes, Mattie Hughs, Doc Anderson, Elizabeth Gillespie, Victoria Wooster