Text: 1 Thessalonians 1:8 Ways in which individuals and local congregations can spread the gospel in their area: Open Assemblies (1 Corinthians 14:23-25) This is typically the most consistently practiced method, yet one we sometimes forget in this context Our assemblies should be open to visitors such that they feel welcome attending (James 2:2-4) The [...]

Text: Acts 6:1-7 Why the Widows? Earlier the poor in general were helped (Acts 4:32-35) — here the widows specifically were served (Acts 6:1), implying ongoing care that was provided them The church was to provide ongoing care & support to certain widows (1 Timothy 5:3,9-10) Why not other widows? … They had others to [...]

Text: 2 Corinthians 2:17 Those Who Peddle the Word They corrupt the word — changing the things in it (Galatians 1:6-9) and leaving things out of it (Acts 20:27) They adulterate the word — mixing in the commands, traditions, and opinions of men (Colossians 2:20-23; Matthew 15:6-9; Romans 14:1) There are “many” who do this [...]

Text: 1 Corinthians 13:6-7 How we handle a misunderstanding on the part of a preacher or teacher will depend upon the nature of the misunderstanding. In every case it should be dealt with appropriately and in love. Growing in Knowledge Growth is a continual process — even for a preacher/teacher of the gospel It is [...]

Text: Romans 16:25-27 God is able to establish us through His word. Here, Paul describes the word of God in several different ways, showing how it is able to establish us The Gospel “Good news” — the message is beneficial to us Man is enslaved to sin (John 8:24; Hebrews 2:15) — the gospel announces [...]

Text: 1 Kings 19:16 Requested a Double Portion of Elijah’s Spirit (2 Kings 2:6-14) Not referring to a greater ability to prophesy or perform miracles, but it had to do with the desire to follow in the footsteps of his master and continue his work (cf. Deuteronomy 21:17) Those who have led us are worthy [...]

Text: Amos 1:1 Amos Was a Regular Guy He was a sheepherder (Amos 1:1) — common occupation He was “not a prophet” (Amos 7:14) — he certainly prophesied (7:15), but was not formally recognized or received wages as a prophet He was not a “son of a prophet” (Amos 7:14) — he received no formal [...]

Text: Acts 14:27 Background of Paul & Barnabas’ Report to Antioch Antioch sent them on their way (Acts 13:3) They had just returned from their preaching trip (Acts 14:26) They gathered the church, not just the elders or a few individuals (Acts 14:27) Benefits of Preaching Reports Preachers are kept accountable — ensuring they are [...]

Text: Acts 20:27 Is It Important What We Believe? NT teaches the importance of faith (Hebrews 11:6) Faith comes from the word of God (Romans 10:17) God revealed what He wants us to know (1 Corinthians 2:10-13) God’s word is true (John 17:17) — we must believe it (all of it) Should We Preach/Teach on [...]

Text: Romans 16:16 Note: This is not intended to endorse every congregation that wears the name “church of Christ.” For the purpose of this outline, the “churches of Christ” are those who are faithfully following the New Testament pattern. Not Based on Our Name Many churches of Christ do not follow the NT pattern (Revelation [...]