Bible Study

 “Bible Study”

Jarrod M. Jacobs

      The need for daily and faithful Bible study cannot be questioned. All need to spend time studying and learning the will of God. This is stated in II Timothy 2:15 when the apostle Paul writes, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” Paul further encouraged Timothy in the study of God’s word as he wrote, “Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine...Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all” (I Tim. 4:13, 15). The need for systematic, regular Bible study cannot be denied. It is a necessity that those calling themselves children of God spend time in God’s word so that their souls might “feed” upon spiritual food (I Pet. 2:2; Heb. 5:13-14; etc.).

“Word-Association” Bible Study

            However, those dedicated to regular Bible study can make mistakes. One mistake I see people making is what I call a “word-association” study. In other words, folks choose a particular passage or chapter to study, and their study method is to find a word or phrase in their text that reminds them of other passages that use this same word. They then formulate a lesson or doctrine based on passages that use words similar to those found in the original passage they read.

            For example, a person reads John 3:16. (“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish; but have everlasting life.”) From this passage, he focuses on the word “gave.” Thinking about how God gave His only begotten Son, he then formulates his study around the idea of giving and how Christians must give of their means in a loving and sacrificial way.

            Is teaching that man needs to give monetarily to God a sin? By no means! Yet, in connecting God’s giving of Christ and our giving of money, this person has completely ignored the context and thrust of Christ’s words to Nicodemus! It is true that Christians need to give of their means (I Cor. 16:1-2; II Cor. 9:7; etc.), but John 3:16 is not the passage that proves it! John 3:16 has a context, and it demands our respect!

            When people make such mistakes in their studies, the result is not just a lack of understanding but a potential for confusion and misinterpretation. While this person may not espouse a “false” doctrine, the end result is that such study is “slip-shod” at best and opens us up to the possibility of espousing false doctrines because we failed to respect the context of Scripture. It is no wonder people are confused about the Bible! No wonder some believe we can make the Bible “say anything we want.” Yes, when we are practicing “word association” or similar things in our study, we can make the Bible teach almost anything. However, when folks decide to quit playing and learn what the passage means, then the passage will only mean one thing — the truth — not “anything we want”!

Proper Bible Study

            Proper Bible study begins and ends with a profound respect for the context of the passage. We need to read and reread a section of Scripture, whether it is a paragraph, the entire chapter, or even the book, to truly appreciate what is being said in context. For example, reading a passage that uses the word “faith” is not a license to assume that every other passage that mentions “faith” means the same thing every time. We must study so we know whether the word “faith” is being used in connection with the word of God, i.e., one body of doctrine, or “the” faith (Eph. 4:5; Jude 3; Acts 14:22; Rom. 1:5; etc.) or if it is used in connection with one’s personal faith (Deut. 32:20; Matt. 6:30, 8:10; Jas. 2:17-26; Rev. 2:19; Rom. 10:17; etc.)! As was stated above, we must respect the context of Scripture!

            Commentaries can be helpful tools in our study. Bible dictionaries and lexicons are good Bible study tools as well, but please remember that these are the works of men and that we take those men’s thoughts with a “grain of salt.” The works of men can be tainted with the author’s biases. Just because some man wrote a commentary does not mean he is an inspired writer like those of the Bible (II Pet. 1:20-21)!

            In truth, the Bible is its own best commentary and dictionary! Use the Bible to define its words and explain the more difficult passages with easier passages whenever possible. Such practice demands even more time and effort as we “plow deep” and get to the true meaning of a particular verse or section of Scripture. The rewards for such diligence and dedication will make the effort worthwhile. (I Cor. 15:58)

            To help illustrate what we are discussing, take, for example, the “types” and “antitypes” in the Bible. (ex: I Pet. 3:20-21; John 3:14). Anytime we have a “type” and “antitype” in the Bible, God is sure to point it out to us! We are not left to guess whether or not we have found them. Furthermore, the Bible makes it plain when a prophecy has been fulfilled (ex: Acts 2:16; Jn. 19:23-24, 35-36; Matt. 2:14-23; etc.).

            We also see that God defines certain words for us. Take, for example, the word “baptism.” When men speak of baptism, they speak of sprinkling water, pouring water, and sometimes immersion in water. Yet, God defined this word by saying folks were “buried” in water when baptized (Col. 2:12; Rom. 6:3-4). Sometimes, such phrases as “going down into” or “coming up” are used to help us picture just what it means to be baptized (Matt. 3:16-17; Acts 8:35-38). Proper Bible study helps us to determine the truth on baptism and every other Bible subject. God did not give us a book that is so complicated that we cannot understand it. In fact, we are told we can understand God’s word (Eph. 3:4, 5:17)! We can do this if we do it correctly and handle God’s word accurately (II Tim. 2:15).

Conclusion

            How are your Bible study habits? Do you study God’s word daily? If not, make the change today and determine to know more by the end of this month (and the end of this year) than you knew at the beginning (II Pet. 3:18).

Two Gardens

 Two Gardens

Jarrod M. Jacobs

The Bible describes two gardens for us. Though these gardens are separated by location and centuries, there are still several comparisons and contrasts that can be made between them. God described these gardens for our learning (Rom. 15:4), and they teach us much. Let us take a moment to compare and contrast two Bible gardens and see what truths are found there.

Eden (Gen. 3)

1. A place of sorrow (Gen. 3:16-17).

2. A place of willing choices (Adam and Eve were not forced to sin, Gen. 2:16-17, 3:1-6).

3. God’s word was spoken here (Gen. 2:15-18, 3:8-19).

4. The guilty were expelled from this garden (Gen. 3:24).

5. The actions in this garden resulted in souls lost (Gen. 2:17, 3:3; Rom. 5:12).

6. Though paradise, spiritual death resulted from the actions taken in this place (Gen. 3:3; Rom. 5:12, 6:23).

7. Those in this garden were living (I Cor. 15:45).

Gethsemane (Matt. 26; Mk. 14; Lk. 22)

1. A place of sorrow (Mk. 14:34; Lk. 22:45).

2. A place of willing choices (Christ was not forced to die, Matt. 26:53-54; Jn. 18:6-9, 10:17-18).

3. God’s word was spoken here (Matt. 26:38-38, 41-42, 44, 50-56; Jn. 18:6-9).

4. The Innocent was led from this garden (Matt. 26:57; Jn. 18:13).

5. The actions in this garden resulted in souls saved (Rom. 5:8-9; Matt. 20:28; Heb. 2:9).

6. Though a place of sorrow, spiritual life resulted from the actions taken in this place (Jn. 10:10, 20:31; Jn. 3:16; Rom. 6:22).

7. The One in this garden was life-giving (I Cor. 15:45).

Seven "Walks" Of The Ephesians

 “Seven ‘Walks’ Of The Ephesians”

Jarrod M. Jacobs

Ephesians is a book of unique value to the Christian. When we read this book, we are impressed with these folks’ conversion from sin and how they became Christians. We are also impressed with the words of the apostle Paul, encouraging them to remain faithful to the Lord so long as they lived on this earth.

When writing to these brethren, he emphasized their need for “walking” a certain way and not “walking” a certain way. Seven times in the book of Ephesians, the apostle mentions “walking”; two times in a negative sense and five times in a positive sense. This book provides us with clear guidance on how to live our lives. Please read these verses below and then let us make applications to ourselves.

The Word “Walk” In The Book Of Ephesians ...
2:1-2 – “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins: Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:”

2:10 – “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”

4:1 – “I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called.”

4:17 – “This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind.”

5:1-2 –“Be ye therefore followers of God as dear children: And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savor.”

5:8 – “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light.”

5:15-16 – “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”

The Word “Walk” Has Meaning.
When we think about the word “walk,” it implies a direction. We can only walk in one direction. Therefore, we choose one direction and reject the others. Notice in these seven references in the book of Ephesians that Christians are told how to walk and not walk. This underscores the importance of our choices and the responsibility we have in making them. Seeing that this is true, let us make sure we are walking in the direction described by God (Jer. 10:23)! To do so means walking in good works (Eph. 2:10), walking worthy of our vocation (Eph. 4:1), walking in love (Eph. 5:1), walking as children of light (Eph. 5:8), and walking circumspectly (Eph. 5:15). This is a tall order, isn’t it? Yet, it is something that each Christian can do; otherwise, it would not be required of us.

Choosing to “walk” according to the characteristics named in Ephesians means we are not choosing to walk according to our selfish will or walk in the direction that the “majority” of this world does (Eph. 2:1-2, 4:17). Are we willing to stand out, to be a “peculiar people, zealous of good works” (Titus 2:14)? If so, then, let us walk in the right direction, and refuse to walk anymore in the way that the world does. Yes, it is sometimes difficult, but the result will be a rest and reward in Heaven.

“Walking” Is A Continual Action.
Let us realize that walking in good works, worthy of our vocation, in love, as children of light, and circumspectly is not a one-time event. It is a lifelong journey of spiritual growth and commitment. Therefore, if the Lord wills, we have a lifetime to improve, to hone our skills, to learn, and to be the best we can be (II Pet. 3:18). In other words, Christians will “be faithful unto death” (Rev. 2:10). They will “be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (I Cor. 15:58). This is what the “walking” described in those five places in the book of Ephesians is all about! It's not about a single step, but a continuous journey.

Conclusion
When we walk in the right direction, we are not just following a path, we are transforming our lives to reflect the life of Christ (Rom. 12:1-2). We are walking in good works as Christ did good works (Eph. 2:10; Acts 10:38). We are walking worthy of our vocation, as Christ walked worthy of God (Eph. 4:1; I Pet. 2:22). We are walking in love as Christ walked in love (Eph. 5:1; II Cor. 5:14; Eph. 3:18-19). We are walking as children of light, following Christ, “the light of the world” (Eph. 5:8; Jn. 8:12, 9:5). We are walking circumspectly, just as Christ walked diligently while He was upon the earth (Eph. 5:15; I Pet. 2:21). When we follow the instructions laid out in Scripture, we are moving closer to Christ! This is the transformation we are striving for every day we live. If you haven’t been doing this, why not start now?

Walking in this way means we also will do our best to avoid going back and falling into the trap of walking like the Gentiles or according to the course of this world. Having become Christians, we must avoid what will take us away from Christ and move closer to Him daily. When we “walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin” (I Jn. 1:7).

"Many Books ..."

Many Books …

Jarrod M. Jacobs

             In the long ago, Solomon said, “And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh” (Ecc. 12:12). Solomon’s words ring true today, don’t they? When we think of all the books in existence on this earth, the volume is staggering! If we could calculate all books that have ever been written, surely it would be an amazingly high number. Perhaps one reason so many books exist is because many books have the wrong information in them! Therefore, upon the publication of a book, another book is written to correct the error. Take note of the U.S. Tax Code and the numerous books associated with just that one subject — these too are books that are “renewed” or changed each year! We might also consider the fact that as man continues to observe and study the world in which he lives, more books are written to document the findings that he had not seen before. Therefore, it is obvious how man can write so many books!

            In contrast with the “many books” men have written through the years, consider the fact that God has only written 66 books under one cover! Within the Bible, we find the mind of God revealed to man (II Cor. 2:10-13; II Pet. 1:20-21; II Tim. 3:16-17). This means that within the pages of the Bible are eternal truths which will lead us from earth to Heaven. Jesus said God’s word is truth (Jn. 17:17), and this is still the case! God did not have to issue “revisions” of the Bible every few years, with changes or corrections to the text. It was complete and perfect from the time the ink was put to the scroll! Yes, men have written “many books” over the years, but God did not need to do that.

            Within the pages of one sacred volume, we read of the creation of man (Gen. 1-2), of man sinning, and of the promise of a savior (Gen. 3). Within the Bible, we read of the establishment of a nation that would bring about our Savior (Gen. 12:1-3; Matt. 1; Lk. 3). This volume teaches us about a Savior’s love and sacrifice (Rom. 5:8), and what to do to be saved from the sin that keeps us from a right relationship with God (Isa. 59:1-2; Matt.-Jn.; Acts 2:38). Imagine, God’s wisdom on these subjects, and many other subjects, are revealed to us within one small volume!

            The beauty and wisdom of God’s word is again seen when we consider the volume of commentaries men have written in the study of God’s Book! It is impressive and even ironic that what God states in a sentence or two in the Bible, men can dissect and write numerous pages concerning that statement(s) and its application. (This irony is not lost on this author! What are bulletins like The Old Paths but teaching tools, wherein God’s word is dissected and applications made? Further, note that this entire article is based upon only one verse of Scripture!)

            If God wanted, He could have written volumes of books for men to study. Yet, in His wisdom, He gave us a book that can be read relatively quickly (74 hours on average). Let us thank God for His extraordinary, life-giving, wisdom-producing volume that teaches us what to do to be saved and prepares us for a home in Heaven. 

Now That The Election Is Over ...

 “Now That The Election Is Over …”

Jarrod M. Jacobs

          We have survived another election season. Did your choice for President win? How about those you chose running for other national, state, and county (local) offices?

            Now that the election is over, it is a time for introspection. Regardless of the election outcome, our duty as Christians and citizens remains the same. We must wake up every morning, serve God, be faithful, and go about our work as Christians and as members of society (I Cor. 15:58; Ecc. 12:13-14; II Thess. 3:10; I Tim. 5:8). Sometimes, the election of specific candidates may make our work as a Christian harder, but it must be done nonetheless.

            Now that the election is over, are there people who need my apology? I may have insulted or angered some people in my zeal for “my” candidate. Jesus said, “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift” (Matt. 5:23-24). We are told, “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil” (Eph. 4:26-27).

            Perhaps it has grown beyond anger over words spoken, and genuine hatred has been exhibited toward someone over the candidate he/she preferred. Remember what John said, “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also” (I Jn. 4:20-21). Jesus’ words apply here as well when He said, “thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (Matt. 22:39). Did we remember that during this latest election cycle? Do we need to repent and “remember from whence we have fallen”?

            I may not understand someone’s rationale for voting for candidate “x,” but cooler heads need to prevail in this. Look again and see how the Lord says we need to treat people (Matt. 7:12). Let me hasten to add the statement of the apostle Paul in Romans 12:9, “Let love be without dissimulation.” This means we must express true love to others and not merely exhibit concealed hate!

            Some are quick to add, “Candidate ‘x’ and the candidate’s party espouse positions I find wrong and inconsistent with Bible teaching. This is why I oppose the person and the supporters. My candidate and the affiliated party espouse what the Bible teaches.” For the moment, let us grant that this is true about your candidate(s) and the political party. If we wish to get others to see “the truth,” how can we accomplish this? Do we say nothing? Do we browbeat our friend or insult the candidate? If we wish to convince someone, what is the best way to do this? Have we exhibited Christ’s temperament in this election cycle toward others who hold another position on the issues (I Pet. 2:21-22)?

            I know this article has more questions than answers. Still, I think it is necessary to examine ourselves and our motives on this subject (II Cor. 13:5). Can I honestly say I have conducted myself as a Christian before the election? Did I call incumbents insulting names? That is not worthy of a Christian, either, and demands repentance. Though a friend or family member may not act respectfully, though we might disagree with the decisions of office-holders, the office they hold deserves respect (Rom. 13:1; I Pet. 2:13-17).

            Last week, someone sent a chart to me that served as a good reminder of how we need to act as Christians. I have included the bullet points below.

 

“No Matter Who Wins The Election”

• I will not be afraid (Isa. 41:10).
• I will not lose sleep (Prov. 3:24).
• I will not hurl insults (Eph. 4:29).
• I will pray for our leaders (I Tim. 2:2).
• I will keep doing good (I Pet. 2:15).
• I will love my neighbor (Mk. 12:31).
• I will serve and help (Matt. 5:16).
• I will keep my eyes on Christ (Phil. 3:14).

            Now that the election is over let us resolve to make those kinds of promises. Let us resolve to grow closer to the Lord and maintain that relationship so that regardless of what might happen on earth, we still can see Heaven one day.

Time

 Time

Jarrod M. Jacobs

 

           Someone has said, “Time is the only currency you can spend without knowing your balance. Use it wisely.” In my research, I have found similar statements made by Ziad Abdelnour (“Time is a currency you can only spend once.”) and Harmon Okinyo (“Time is a currency you can only spend once, so be careful how you spend it.”). Robert Stock is known for saying, “The true currency of life is time, not money, and we’ve all got a limited supply of that.” Of course, the most famous of these would be Benjamin Franklin, who said, “Dost thou love life? Then do not squander Time; for that’s the Stuff Life is made of.” He also said, “Lost time is never found again.”

            Many other quotes could be shown, but take to heart the words of God that teach, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (II Cor. 6:2). Listen to the inspired word that reminded the Hebrew Christians, “To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts” (Heb. 3:7-8, 15). Note that when folks were going to be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38), they took that action immediately (Acts 2:38-41, 8:35-38, 16:30-34, 22:16; etc.). We have no lease on life. As we learned Wednesday PM in our gospel meeting, we have not been given insight into when the “sand” will run out of the “hourglass.” Since that is true, what are you doing with this moment? What decisions are you making now? They will affect your future!

            “You may delay, but time will not” was Benjamin Franklin’s advice. Are you delaying your obedience to the gospel (Mk. 16:16)? Are you delaying returning to God before it is too late (Acts 8:22)? Stop this and take full advantage of your time today! There will not be any more made!

36,000 Scripture Quotations

“36,000 Scripture Quotations”

Jarrod M. Jacobs

 

While studying the lives of Christians who lived in the first four centuries, I came across some facts that amazed and humbled me. I learned that Christians living in those times were very Bible-centered, focusing most of their writings on the New Testament. Biblical scholars like J. Harold Greenlee and Bruce Metzger have remarked that if the New Testament scrolls were somehow lost or destroyed, we could reconstruct the entire New Testament from these writings. Imagine that! These people’s writings were so focused on the gospel of Christ that one could reconstruct the New Testament from what they wrote! Interestingly, those who have studied these writings have counted no less than 36,000 Scripture quotations in these works!^{[1], 2}

            Specifically, men like …

Irenaeus, who lived about 120-205 A.D., recorded some 1,819 quotations from the New Testament in his writings. (Irenaeus was a student of Polycarp, a student of the apostle John.) His writings included quotes from Matthew, Mark, Luke, Acts, I Corinthians, I Peter, Hebrews, and Titus.

Ignatius (50-110? A.D.) quoted from Matthew, John, Acts, Romans, I Corinthians, Ephesians, Philippians, Galatians, Colossians, James, I and II Thessalonians, I and II Timothy and I Peter.

Clement of Alexandria (150-212 A.D.) quoted from the New Testament some 2,406 times in his writings! His works include quotations from 24 of the 27 books of the New Testament!

Cyprian (died in 258 A.D.) cited about 740 Old Testament passages and 1,030 New Testament passages in his works.

            Do not such facts humble us? When I read such facts as the above, I realized that there were such a large number of Bible quotations in those men’s writings because this is what they were teaching! They were not teaching and spreading men’s thoughts but teaching the word of God to people. Of course, the best way to teach God’s word (then or now) is to include actual quotations from Scripture. Is there any wonder why the Ephesian letter says, “Whereby when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ” (Eph. 3:4)?

            When I learned those facts, it made me want to reexamine my preaching and writing. Am I quoting Scripture in my preaching and writing? Am I making sure folks know that when I preach, write, and talk with them, I put the Lord’s word and will first above all else? Jesus taught His followers to “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matt. 6:33). This must happen in our preaching, writing, and every other aspect of our public and private teaching! In addition, it makes me look around and notice what others are doing. Brethren, we are seeing many who wish to emphasize less Scripture in our preaching and teaching. We know Satan and the world want less Scripture (even none), but what about those of us who are called out of the world (I Pet. 2:9)? What about those of us who are a part of the “royal priesthood”? Will we tolerate this? What did those men of the first through fourth centuries see that those of us in the twenty-first century are not seeing? Many are treating the Bible lightly. Could it be that we assume people know more of the Bible than they do? I think this is a definite problem today. I believe the opposite extreme is true as well. Some people do not wish to hear God’s word, and a segment of people are willing to scratch that itch (II Tim. 4:3-4)! Is it possible that “we” have become embarrassed by the gospel? Timothy was told, “Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner” (II Tim. 1:8). The apostle Paul said, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ …” (Rom. 1:16). Are we ashamed? Or, are we embarrassed to reveal our ignorance of the Scriptures (Hos. 4:6)? Either way, let us repent and be a people whose hearts and lives are filled with Scripture!

            This article is a call to people to “let the word of Christ dwell in (us) richly in all wisdom …” (Col. 3:16) so that we may obey God! Of course, such a way of life happens by spending more time in God’s word, not less! Therefore, let us demand God’s word be quoted and taught in our preaching, writing, and all aspects of our lives. Peter said, “If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God ...” (I Pet. 4:11). Let us obey the command from that passage! God’s people were once called “walking Bibles”. Can anyone venture a guess as to why that was? How might God’s people be described today? What are we teaching people?

^[1] McDowell, Josh, Evidence That Demands A Verdict, p. 50-52.

2 Bercot, David, Will The Real Heretics Please Stand Up? 

I Am Not Bothering Anyone

 “I Am Not Bothering Anyone”

Jarrod M. Jacobs

 

Often we find folks who justify their sinful behavior by saying, “I am not bothering anyone.” This excuse may sound thoughtful, but it is not. When we study the nature of sin, we learn that when we commit sin, any sin, we “bother” others!

            Let us begin by noting that we have “bothered” the Father and the Son when we sin! Remember, it is sin that nailed Christ to the cross! Christ came to this world so that He could die (Jn. 18:37). From Genesis 3:15 to the end of the Bible, we see our Lord Christ as the sacrifice for our sins (Rev. 13:8)! At the same time, we read in the Bible about the degree of love possessed by God. He loves man so much that He gave His only begotten Son as the supreme sacrifice (Jn. 3:16; Rom. 5:8; I Jn. 4:9-10). Therefore, let us not say that we are not “bothering” anyone when we sin! God and Christ will both disagree with that statement!

            Furthermore, our sins often “bother” men! When we are young, our sins affect the lives of our parents. Though we may not like to admit it, it is the truth! In addition to this, there are some sins we commit that not only affect our parents, placing undue worry and emotional and/or financial strain upon them, but our sins can result in society (through taxes) paying for our housing and food for a time (i.e., prison).

            We also recognize that for Christians, when we sin and refuse to repent, it burdens the church, and the church must withdraw from us (II Thess. 3:6, 14-15; I Cor. 5:5-7)! The church cannot continue to be in fellowship with a person who is “walking disorderly” or literally “out-of-step” with God! Therefore, one’s sin has affected an entire congregation of God’s people! (One’s sins have also burdened a family of Christians who now have a family member from whom the church has withdrawn, II Thess. 3:6; I Cor. 5:11!) In light of these things, how can we say that the sins we commit do not “bother” anyone? Just the opposite is true! “For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself” (Rom. 14:7).

            Yet, if it could be proven that there is a sin that “bothers no one,” remember that sin affects the one who has committed it! Sin separates us from God (Isa. 59:1-2), and sin results in spiritual death (Jas. 1:15; Rom. 6:23)! Knowing that this is the case, who can believe that man can engage in sinful activities but “bother no one”? That is impossible!

            Let’s stop offering excuses for sin. Instead, let us admit our sin, repent of it, and live as God wants us to live (Acts 17:30; Jn. 14:15)! In so doing, we can have a positive effect upon ourselves and others, influencing folks for good and not evil (Matt. 5:16; Col. 3:17).