Synopsis: In considering the apostolic injunction to “Preach the Word,” let us reflect upon the character and conviction of one who proclaims the gospel message.
Meditations: Choosing Barabbas over Jesus
by Kyle Pope
Synopsis: The sad decision, by those present at the sentencing of Jesus, to choose a robber and insurrectionist over God in the flesh, unfortunately is oft repeated in the daily choices that individuals make today in choosing sin over the Savior.
Women’s Insights: Why Do Families Homeschool?
by Diana Dow
Synopsis: Parents have been given the responsibility of teaching their children. Much thought and prayer is required for them to make the best educational choices for their family.
Challenges: Progressivism in Entertainment
by Bruce Reeves
Synopsis: In considering the impact that the progressive movement has upon entertainment, let us realize that, ultimately, the battle is over the position Jesus Christ will occupy in our lives.
Praise: Examples of Mindfulness
by Matthew Bassford
Synopsis: Our worship must reveal thoughtfulness in the way we choose to worship, how we prepare for worship, and in the content of what we say.
Questions and Answers
Synopsis: Should someone attend with folks who teach error in order to teach them?
Archaeology: Jericho
by Trent and Rebekah Dutton
Synopsis: Jericho is one site you must visit while in Israel. It is critical to the Old Testament narrative and a prime location from which to view the Jordan Valley.
Monthly Theme: Preach the Word!
Article 1: The Power of the Word
by Steven Deaton
Synopsis: We must “preach the word” because the gospel of Jesus Christ is God’s power unto salvation. Doing anything else represents a failure to keep the divine charge.
Article 2: In Season and Out of Season
by Shane Carrington
Synopsis: As Jesus prepared Himself (both before and during His public ministry), preachers and teachers today must diligently do the same.
Article 3: Reproving and Rebuking
by Steve Reeves
Synopsis: The work of an evangelist requires courage to confront and rebuke error. He must also patiently use the word of God to reprove and convince the sinner of his need to repent and obey the Lord.
Article 4: The Need for Exhortation
by David McClister
Synopsis: Exhortation is strong encouragement to obey the gospel and be faithful to its inspired message.
Article 5: Preaching with Great Patience
by David Halbrook
Synopsis: Preaching requires patience, which refers to the state of remaining tranquil while awaiting an outcome or being able to bear up under provocation (BDAG).
Article 6: The Importance of Instruction
by Nathan L Morrison
Synopsis: A significant part of preaching involves offering instruction in righteousness. If sinners and saints are to know what they must do to please God, we must properly emphasize biblical instruction.
This special edition of Truth Magazine examines various areas of the work of elders and offers practical guidance on how they care for members of the local church. Thanks to Phillip Stuckey for selecting this theme and these writers.
Meditations: What Does Heb. 10:25 Teach?
by Kyle Pope
Historically, brethren have understood that Hebrews 10:25 emphasized the need to assemble faithfully with local congregations. Proponents of the AD 70 Doctrine seek to redefine and reinterpret this text. What is the biblical truth?
Womens_Insights: Jesus, Draw Me Ever Nearer
by Sherelyn Mayberry
Gospel hymns possess the power to express our deepest spiritual longings. Drawing on tempestuous imagery, this song exhorts us to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus Christ, who will see us safely through the storm and lead us to heaven’s shores.
Challenges: Progressivism in Modern Religion
by Daniel H. King, Sr.
We live in a perverse era in which absurdities are exalted as absolutes, and lunacy has become law. Paul’s pronouncement, “Professing themselves to be wise, they become fools!” has never been more applicable.
Praise: Mindfulness
by Matthew Bassford
The Oxford Dictionary defines “mindfulness” as “the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something,” or “a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment.” What implications does this concept have on our worship?
QnA: What Is the Meaning of Luke 3:4-6?
by Bobby L. Graham
Archaeology: Paul’s Walk to Assos
By Leon Mauldin
After preaching all night, not to mention raising Eutychus from the dead, Paul went “on foot” from Troas to Assos, while his companions sailed to meet him there (Acts 20:13, NIV). Our article gives the setting for the narrative.
Communication within an eldership is like blood to the body—it brings life. It reduces stress and increases energy. It provides for a stronger immune system and results in faster healing.
Article 2: Working with the Deacons
by Bruce Reeves
The Bible teaches that serving as a deacon among God’s people is a rewarding and honorable work. Elders are uniquely positioned to help such men perform to the peak of their ability and grow in their spiritual service.
Article 3: Working with the Saints
by Gary Watt
The work of shepherds with the saints is a critical component of a productive church (Heb. 13:7). The shepherds’ primary priority is identifying and meeting the spiritual needs of their saints.
Article 4: Working with the Evangelist
by Sherrel Mercer
Divine principles govern the interaction between shepherds and an evangelist. If we respect one another and fulfil our mutual roles in the local congregations, God will be glorified and the brethren will be blessed.
Article 5: Working with the Weak
by Max Dawson
What can shepherds do to hold on to weak sheep and help them grow? A lot! Instead of being cynical about weak brethren, let us manifest the loving concern that David evidenced toward the flock of Jesse and his heavenly Father.
Article 6: Working with the Wayward
by Donnie V. Rader
Elders must use wisdom as they lead the congregation in trying to bring the wayward back home to God. When such efforts are unsuccessful, may local shepherds fulfill the difficult duty of exercising discipline properly and productively.
