Study with a Friend
------------------- by Bro. Mark Householder ------------------
Introduction
Every
Christian who is living true to his commitment will someday meet with a friend
or acquaintance with whom he would like to study. Realizing the many differences that exist, not only among
religions but also from one individual to another, you will have made your
first step toward a good discussion.
Respecting the other person as an individual who, like you, has a soul
and is probably seeking many of the same things you are.
It is my
opinion that one common denominator in all people is their desire to love and
be loved. This desire manifests itself
in how we work, play and manage our many relationships. We read that “He that loveth not knoweth not
God, for God is love.” I believe there
is an innate sense within us all which points or directs us to God. It seems a good understanding of people and
our Christian walk that sees people as lost or saved rather than considering
their actions or beliefs to be deplorable to the point that you cannot study.
In order
to be a considerate person, we need to do several things. We need to rightly divide the word of
truth. We need to study God’s word
daily to see if the things we are taught are true. We need to realize that all have sinned and have fallen short of
the glory of God. That sin has
separated us from God and that, by grace we have been saved through faith, not
of our own deeds lest we should boast.
We need to preach the gospel (das Evangelium = the evangelizing message)
of Christ to all creatures. And, last
and most importantly, our commission is to go and make disciples of all nations
by baptizing them and teaching them to obey all that Christ has commanded us;
for to fear God and obey his commands is the whole duty of man.
Quite
simply put, the gospel is this: that
all have sinned and deserve eternal punishment for their deeds but can be
reconciled unto God by repentance, acceptance of Jesus as the Anointed One of
God (cristos - The Christ; Messiah)
sp.?