Jesus forever settles where God's church, the kingdom on earth, should come in one's list of values: "But seek ye first his kingdom and his righteousness" (Matt. 6:33). But when, and under what circumstances, should we do this? One is correct in saying, "All of the time and under all circumstances." However, such an answer is too general to have much meaning for most of us. Let us ask and answer, more specifically, "When should one seek first the kingdom?"

When We Marry. If one is interested in serving God and going to heaven, it is only reasonable that he or she should choose a companion who will share this interest It is one of the world's great tragedies to see a fine, dedicated-to-Christ young person fall in love with someone who has no interest at all in spiritual things and never will. At best the faithful Christian must shoulder all the spiritual burden of the home and at worst many are drawn away by their companions and lose their souls.

When We Choose Our Work. If the kingdom is at the top of our list in life, we will never consider any sort of business or employment that would weaken us spiritually or tarnish our reputations.

When We Rear and Educate Our Children. What do we want most for our children? Do we care more about their social and physical needs than their spiritual needs? Is our driving ambition that they may be popular at all costs or faithful Christians? If we are really seeking the kingdom first we will want our children to have the education that will help preserve and strengthen their faith for many years of Christian service that will end in heaven, such as a Christian college provides.

When We Make Big Decisions. What is the main factor governing our big decisions, such as changing jobs, moving, etc.? How much money it means, whether we will like the climate, what the living conditions are, etc must be considered. But for the Christian, the important question is, "Will this enable me to serve the Lord more or will it hinder me?" In any big decision we ought to pray, "Thy will be done."

When We Have Financial Success. If we lay up treasures on earth we are fools. If we lavishly spend them on pleasures we are fools twice over. If the kingdom is not first financially, it is not first period!

Ye Do Err
Noah Hackworth

Jesus said, "Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God" (Mat. 22:29). This statement by the Lord was in response to a question put to Him by the materialistic Sadducees who were incredibly ignorant of the Word of God, just like so many folks today. But the thing to be remembered is the fact that there is no excuse for biblical ignorance save laziness and/or indifference. People who have little biblical knowledge ought not have strong biblical opinions. That there is a super abundance of biblical ignorance prevailing in the world today is absolutely appalling. If people knew more about the Word of God, there would be (1) less unscriptural marriages and divorces, (2) less religious division, (3) no quibbling about whether instrumental music in worship is wrong, (4) more unity among true believers, (5) more righteous living, (6) more happy people, and (7) less murmuring and complaining. Biblical ignorance, however, can only be eradicated by a continual study of the Bible. Otherwise we will continue to err, not knowing the Scriptures.

Youth Devo
The monthly Youth Devotional and Fellowship is scheduled for this evening after the PM services. See Matt Faneuf for further details.

FSOP Extension Class
The Florida School of Preaching extension class that is held here at Orange Street in the annex, will begin on August 19th and continue each Thursday evening from 7 - 9:30 pm. This semester’s class is “The Holy Spirit” and will be taught by brother Bob Bauer. See Bob for more info. There is a $5.00 registration fee.

Thanks To The Elders
Our Wednesday Evening Summer Series has now concluded – but we would like to thank the elders for providing this excellent series of lessons for us to feast on during the summer months. We look forward to next years line-up.