Continue in My Word

Jesus  stated  very  plainly  that  “If  ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples  indeed.” (Jno.8:31). The important fact for us to see, is to abide in the word of the Lord, means we first must believe the word. It would be impossible to abide in that which we have no faith. The infidel and those of like mind cannot abide in truth for the simple reason that they do not believe the word. Therefore, to abide in His word is to have a hearty reception of Scriptures. Note what was stated on Pentecost. “Then they that gladly received His word were baptized.” (Acts 2:41). Many may hear the word proclaimed in all truth and love, yet never believe it and will not obey the Gospel of Christ. Man must hear the word of God, but if he does not obey, he will remain lost. James said for us to “be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your ownselves.” (Jas.1:22). Many do not know the difference between the word of God and the  words  of  men.  Paul  commended  the  people at Thessalonica for knowing the difference. “For this cause also thank we God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of man, but as it is in truth, the word of God.”  (1 Thess.2:13). In the book of Hebrews we are admonished: “Therefore we ought (must) to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.” (Heb.2:1).

            If you hear someone preach that baptism is not essential to salvation, and that you can be saved and go to Heaven without ever being baptized, you must know that that person is speaking the words of men and not the truth of God. (Acts 2:38). Those who abide in such teaching cannot be the disciples of Christ. For “he that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” (Mk.16:16).

            If you hear someone preach that one church is just as good as another, you must know  that  he  speaks  the  words  of  men and not the word of God. (Matt.16:18)  (Acts 2:47). Those who abide in such teaching cannot be the disciples of the Lord.

            Friends, if you hear someone say that you do not have to attend Sunday night worship, Wednesday night Bible study, you must be told that such comes from the thoughts of men and not from the word of God. (Heb. 10:25).  Therefore, those who wish to abide in such foolishness are not following Christ. “He that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.” (Jas.4:17).  Jesus said: If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” (Matt.16:24). I promised to love Him always, and therefore, will continue in His word!!!

. . . .  Fred  House