God Uses People
—— Steve Higginbotham ——

Have you heard the fictional story about the man sitting on his rooftop during a flood waiting to be rescued? First, a boat came by and offered him a ride to safety, but the man refused any help saying that he trusted God to save him. Shortly there after, another boat came by and offered to help him, but again he refused, offering the same response, "No thanks, God will save me." Finally, a helicopter can by and offered to rescue him, but with no luck. The man once again refused the help that was offered and said, "Thank you for your offer, but I trust in God to help me."

Finally, the man drowned and went to heaven with one pressing question on his lips. "Lord, I trusted in you, why didn't you save me?" To which the Lord responded, I tried, I sent two boats and a helicopter!"

Now, here's the point: God often helps people through people. Listen you all, when you see an opportunity to do good, don't deny God the use of your body to be an instrument of His providence. ❦

Is One Religion
As Good As Another?
Dan Winkler

It's a sensitive question, but one you and I really need to ask. Remember Jesus warning, "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven" (Matt. 7:2 1)? It's just not good enough for us to claim an allegiance to some religion.

Think about the NT book of Hebrews. It was probably written to folks that had converted from Judaism to Christ and His church.

There is a constant referencing to the OT books of law [Genesis and Exodus], [Joshua and 11 Samuel], poetry [Psalms and Proverbs] prophecy [Isaiah, Jeremiah, Habakkuk and Haggai].

Thoughts significant to a Jew can be found throughout the book. For example, it directs its reader's attention to "the fathers" (ch. 1), "the word spoken through angels," [(i.e. the old law (cf Gal. 3:19)] ch. 2), the Sabbath concept (ch. 4), the tabernacle (ch. 6), animal sacrifices (ch. 10) and Mt. Sinai (ch. 12).

Key "Hebrews heroes" such as Abraham, Moses, Aaron, Joshua, and the worthies of "Faith Hall of Fame" (ch. 11) are also mentioned.

Now, here is the point. Judaism was a religion that originated with God. As such, it fulfilled its divine purpose. But with the coming of Jesus' new covenant (Heb. 8:6-12), even Judaism ceased to be a religion God accepted (cf Rom. 91-3; 10: 1-3)!

The book of Hebrews was even revealed to encourage those who had converted from Judaism to "hold on " to their new religion (Hebrews 3:6,14; 6:18; 10:22-23). Why? Why, if one religion is just as good an another?

May our hearts be like that of Paul who wrote, "I count all things to be loss... that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own " (Philippians 1:8-9). ❦

BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST
Our hearts were made to rejoice in hearing of the baptism of Charlie Tesner this past Monday (Jan. 11). Brother Tesner is 88 years old. Add this information to your directories:

TESNER, Charlie . . . . . . . . . . . . . .***-****
**** ****** *****- Auburndale, FL 33823

We extend our deepest sympathy to Frank and Linda Dale and their family in the passing of Frank’s father, Robert Dale, this past Wednesday (Feb. 13). May God provide the peace and comfort that only He can give during this time of loss and sorrow.

TONIGHT!
The teen group is scheduled to meet in the annex this evening, after the PM worship, for their bi-weekly fellowship and devo. For more information see Matt Faneuf of Bob Bauer.

Children’s Class
Our youngsters meet each Sunday evening at 5:40 in the auditorium for a short session of stories and songs. The scheduled teacher for this evenings class is Greg Littleton.

For The Pantry
The pantry item for this month is canned fruits. Be sure to help us keep the pantry well stocked so that we can be prepared when a need arises.

“A child needs very little advice –
if he’s watching good examples”

Unfortunately, the philosophy of many is "never do now what you can put off until tomorrow." This concept will be responsible for many lost souls. The great word of the bible is "now" "Now is the accepted time: behold, now is the day of salvation." (2 Corinthians 6:2)

UPCOMING AREA EVENTS:

• Mar. 16, 2002 - Ladies’ Day
Orange Street church of Christ
Speaker: Joyce Kidwell Stearsman