Statistics tell us that during the 1940's and 1950's, the Lord’s church experienced tremendous growth in the United States. In fact, some tell us that the Lord's church w as, during that period of time, the fastest growing religious body in America. However, that is no longer true. We are not growing nearly as fast as we were 30 and 40 years ago. And because of this, we have faced a barrage of criticism.

For some time now, brethren have preached sermons, written articles, and published books criticizing every aspect of the church Such criticisms have been destructive and harmful. While sin and error cannot be allowed to go unchallenged (Jude 3), these criticisms need to be tempered with praise. While I can find some imperfections in the people who make up the church. I can also find many good things. Instead of dwelling on "what's wrong with the church," should we not balance that with "what's right with the church?"

As I see it, the criticism over the years has taken its toll. Imagine what would happen If a person, who for 30 years, constantly filled his mind with negative thoughts regarding himself This Is the situation that exists with some of Gods people. They have beaten themselves (or allowed others to beat them) down. As a result I believe we are seeing a generation of Christians who are ashamed of their heritage, the church which Jesus built

More than a few Christians today are ashamed of the Lord's church They are ashamed of the truth of Gods word They are ashamed of Gods scheme of redemption. And they are ashamed of the simplicity which characterizes the organization, work, and worship of the church in recent times, we have heard brethren apologizing for our stand against the innovation of mechanical instruments in worship, calling it a "century old mistake."

Just a few years ago, one Christian lady stated that she was embarrassed to be a member of the church of Christ after a congregation received some negative publicity after practicing church discipline as the Bible demands.

In yet another case, a Christian brother apologized for the church's "dogmatic" stand regarding the, issue of divorce and remarriage. On and on we could go Illustrating the fact that some Christians are ashamed of Christ and His church. Note however, how this attitude contrasts with the apostle Paul's attitude (Rom. 1:16; Phil. 1:20).

The faithful child of God is not ashamed of the Lord's church He is not ashamed of the commands. Christ has left His church to believe, obey, and practice. And he is not made to be ashamed or apologetic when the illuminating light of Gods word exposes error and sin in a person's life.

While I would be one of the first to admit that the people who comprise the church of Christ have some problems and have room to mature and be more like Christ, I will also be one of the first to bring to our remembrance the fact that those people who comprise the church have access to the cleansing blood of Christ (1 John 1:7).

Mark 8:38, "For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed when He comes in the glory-of His Father with the holy angels."

PM Fellowship Tonight!
All are invited to meet after the PM worship this evening for a short period of fellowship in honor of the November birthdays and anniversaries. The fare will be snacks and finger foods.

December Calendars
The December edition of the Activities Calendar and Men To Serve list is available today in the foyer. Pick-up a copy and be informed of next month’s activities and duty schedules.

The Annual Senior Appreciation Dinner is scheduled for after the morning services, next Sunday (Dec. 5th), in the annex. Plan to attend and pay honor to our senior members.

2005 Sign-Up Sheet
Be sure to check the duty schedules posted in the foyer and make any necessary changes. If no changes are made - you will be scheduled to serve at the posted times. We also need volunteers for the monthly Home Devos (sign-up is on the same sheet).

NOTICE!!
The elders ask that those leaving the building by the rear doors (those located on the Bible Lab end of the building) after the closer has secured that area - PLEASE make sure the doors are closed and locked behind you, after you exit. We have had several occasions of a door being left ajar. Your cooperation will be much appreciated.

We can lie by silence. When a man is falsely accused in my presence, I am obligated to defend. Otherwise, I am a party to the lie. A man can lie by keeping his mouth shut. One man said the world will not be lost by evil deeds but by good men who did nothing.

Daily Bible Reading
Did you know . . .

• If you read about one chapter a day you can read through the New Testament in one year.
• If you read about two chapters a day you can read through the Old Testament in one year.
• If you read about three chapters a day you can read through the whole Bible in one year.
• If you read about four chapters a day you can read through the Old Testament once and the New Testament twice in one year.

Which plan is best for you?