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People of The Living God |
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November 2025
WATCHMEN ON THE WALLS
DARKNESS SHALL COVER THE EARTH Isaiah 60:2
Randall Walton
Surely the earth has been plunged into the state of darkness spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, and it is certain to become even darker in the next few years that lie ahead of us.
We are witnessing events at the present time which only a few years ago would not have been considered fit to print and probably would not have been believed if they had been. We refer to the low standards of morals (or lack of morals) which are prevalent in every area of society.
Recently, a famous basketball “star” made a public announcement that he had contracted the HIV disease, the forerunner of AIDS. Astonishingly, the man was hailed as a national hero due to his candid admission. He strongly intimated that he became infected by contact with a female companion, and advised the youth of the nation to practice “safe sex.” We cannot help but wonder why he did not extoll the virtues of abstinence rather than recommend the use of prophylactics for the prevention of disease due to sexual activity.
This attitude toward promiscuity prevails throughout most of society and has infiltrated the ranks of the very young. The educators of the nation have joined the rush to extinguish the flame of light of decency and moral rectitude, offering advice on campus on how to achieve and enjoy safe fornication. We have read of mothers who assist their teenaged daughters in obtaining birth control pills in the belief that they are “going to do it anyway.”
While it is true that AIDS can be passed through heterosexual contact, it was not the case until bisexuals became infected through activity with homosexuals. Now, the disease that was once confined to homosexuals has crossed the barrier through bisexuals to promiscuous heterosexuals.
That the plague is now epidemic is unquestioned. In July 1991 officials estimated that between 9 and 11 million people were infected with the virus. And the end is not in sight. No effective cure nor preventive has been found to prevent the spread of this terrible malady.
The only real deterrent to its growth is total abstinence from all sexual activity other than in a monogamous, heterosexual marriage. But few people in society are bold enough to declare this simple message.
In fact, the demand of the homosexual community is for more millions of dollars from the federal treasury to find a cure and prevention for AIDS so they may safely continue on in their perverted and abominable lifestyle! It would be a great boon to find help for hemophiliacs and others who have innocently been infected by diseased needles, but the coffers of the American taxpayers should not be used to subsidize a polluted way of life for anyone. It is as if “we, the people” approve of practices which are demon-inspired.
The flaunting of disregard for moral and ethical standards has pervaded nearly every aspect of man’s conduct: we have congressmen ripping off restaurants and bouncing checks, even though they are among the highest paid citizens in the country. Where public “service” was once considered serving the people, it has now become a political farce where the incumbents grant themselves exorbitant pay raises in the middle of the night. Greed and extortion have become the bylaws of a government gone awry. Apparently, the politicians think of themselves and their parties first, while their constituents are in a low second place.
But corruption is not confined to the political elite among us. It is in all areas of society: politics, commerce, and religion. The most critical of all is that which is taking place among the so-called Christian circles.
A comparison of the present-day ecclesiastical system with the church shown in the book of Acts leaves you with the question of why men bother to call their organizations Christian at all. There is little, if any, likeness.
Gone is the love the early saints had for each other. Gone is the power that once was efficacious for the healing of the body and the raising of the dead, and the casting out of demons. Gone is the dedication of a people whose only desire and purpose in life was to please and obey God. Gone is the unity and oneness that marked that pristine body as a unified company.
Gone is the holy worship service where Jesus was adored and praised and exalted, and a spirit of awe and reverence hovered over the assembly. Gone is the bold and powerful preaching where sinners were brought under crushing conviction and hidden sins were exposed and brought to light. Gone is the ministry of the Word under the anointing of the Holy Ghost, in such inspiration and manifestation that the people drank from the fountain of living water and ate of the heavenly manna. Gone is the purity of godly lives – holiness – while loose living is tacitly approved because of silent lips in the pulpit.
Surely the darkness does cover the earth and gross darkness the people, while we witness a new surge of Mohammedanism enveloping the world, and as we remain glued to our TV sets. Pardon the expression, but it’s as if we just do not give a damn! There is a profound need for people who care to cry out to God for an awakening among those who really are the servants of Jesus Christ. The need for a restoration to the principles shown in the Sermon on the Mount is most pressing, but until people become aware of this need, they will no doubt continue on in their sub-zero condition.
We urge you to seek the Lord as never before. There is no doubt that we are to face some very trying times soon, troubles which will be so severe that some people will begin to turn to the Lord for help. It is too bad that people will usually turn to the Lord only when there is nothing else they can do, but this attitude has smitten mankind for many millennia. It would be far more honoring to God if we would seek the Lord before the troubles strike. Only in doing this can we be assured of being ready when disaster falls. Let us not be as the five foolish virgins who decided to adjust their lives after it was too late!
“The night (darkness) cometh, when no man can work” (John 9:4).
FAITH TO OBEY
Curtis Dickinson
It is hard to imagine anything as horrible as human sacrifice. The Israelites received the condemnation of Yahweh for following the pagan practice of sacrificing children to Baal and Moloch. But it was God who actually commanded his servant Abraham to offer his own son Isaac on the altar of sacrifice. To make it an even greater challenge, if possible, Isaac was Abraham’s future and the very goal of his life. God had promised them a son when Abraham and Sarah considered themselves as good as dead, so far as children were concerned. Yet “against hope Abraham believed in hope,” and Isaac was born as promised.
God made it clear that the purpose of the command to slay Isaac was a test (Gen. 22:1) and, as difficult as it was, Abraham passed the test. He had his arm raised and ready to plunge the knife into his precious son when an angel of Yahweh spoke: “Lay not your hand upon the lad, neither do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, seeing that you have not withheld your son, your only son from me” (Gen. 22:12).
We ask, “How could anyone, especially a man like Abraham, kill his own son?” The Hebrew letter gives the answer: “By faith Abraham, being tried, offered up Isaac: yea, he that gladly had received the promise was offering up his only begotten son; even he to whom it was said, In Isaac shall thy seed be called: accounting that God is able to raise up, even from the dead; from whence he also in a figure did receive him back” (Heb. 11:19; Gen. 22:17).
Abraham was able to pass the inhuman test only because of his absolute faith in God‘s promise that it would be through Isaac that God would multiply his seed. Such is the relation of faith and obedience: faith makes obedience possible, and obedience is the result of and the proof of faith.
Many examples are given in Hebrews, chapter 11:
By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice…
By faith Enoch…had been well pleasing unto God.
By faith Noah…moved with godly fear, prepared an ark…
By faith Moses…Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the list could go on of those who “through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, from weakness were made strong, waxed mighty in war, turned to flight armies of aliens” (Heb. 11:17-34).
The point in these examples is that because of their faith, these people were obedient to the Father in spite of the extreme demands made upon them. “By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed…” The message is clear: If you have faith in God, you will obey Him. The reverse is true, that if you do not obey, it is proof that you do not have faith. “Even so faith, if it have not works, is dead in itself” (James 2:17).
There are other examples in the New Testament. The wealthy young ruler of Mark 10 was greatly impressed with Jesus and desired the life everlasting of which Jesus spoke. Jesus gave him a direct command: “go, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.” He went away sadly. He apparently believed that there was something to what Jesus preached, and that there is such a thing as eternal life, but he did not believe in Jesus’ promise enough to obey His command. It is one thing to “follow Jesus,” but quite another to give all your money and possessions to people you don’t know, people that might squander it foolishly, people who do not deserve it, leaving yourself with none of the comfort and security that money can buy. Such an act of faith would have branded this young man as a fanatic, a religious nut.
What if Abraham had considered God’s commands in the light of popular opinion? To all the world he would be seen as a heartless, evil monster twhomurdered his own son. Not only would he be hated by his neighbors and ostracized from society, but also he would be despised and feared by his wife. Faith means that the only consideration in obedience is that we please God, not man, and God will also bestow the reward.
Obedience is undermined by the popular teaching that salvation is by faith alone, that all one has to do is to say a prayer and immediately his sins are forgiven and he is safely in the fold of the redeemed. There is such a fear that someone might attribute his salvation to his own efforts, that he is assured that nothing at all is required of him. It is a fact that salvation is a gift; no one can earn it by any amount of works. It is also a fact that obedience to God’s commands in no way annuls the grace of God in granting forgiveness and eternal life.
Many theologians, beginning with Augustine and reinforced by Luther, have insisted that there is a conflict between the grace of God that brings us salvation and the obedience of man in receiving that salvation. The examples of conversion in the book of Acts show that instead of a conflict, these two principles are in harmony. After Peter, who had the keys to the kingdom, had preached the gospel to the crowd at Pentecost, they asked, “What shall we do?” He answered, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:38). Who can deny that their receiving the grace of God was conditioned upon their obedience? They did nothing to earn salvation, but their obedience was required in order to receive it.
A number of “proof texts” can be lined up on either side of this issue. The Bible says that “by grace you have been saved, through faith, and that not of ourselves, it is the gift of God, not be works” (Eph. 2:8,9). It also says, “You see then how that by works a man is justified and not by faith alone” (James 2:24). In reconciling these verses, it might help to go back almost 2000 years and see how the early Christians interpreted them. By “early” Christians, I mean those of the first and second centuries, people who were either companions of or at least contemporaries of John, Peter, and Paul.
Clement of Rome (30-100) was a disciple of Peter and Paul. He wrote, “It is necessary, therefore, that we be prompt in the practice of good works. For He forewarns us, ‘behold, the Lord comes and His reward is before His face, to render to every man according to his work.’”
Polycarp, (69-156) was a companion of the apostle John. He wrote, “He who raised Him up from the dead will also raise us up – if we do His will and walk in His commandments and love what He loved, keeping ourselves from all unrighteousness.”
The letter of Barnabas states: He who keeps these (commandments), will be glorified in the kingdom of God; but he who chooses other things will be destroyed with his works.”
Hermas, perhaps a contemporary of the apostle John, wrote, “only those who fear the Lord and keep His commandments have life with God. But as to those who do not keep His commandments, there is no life in them.” The same belief is found in the writings of Justin Martyr, who was martyred about 165.
These are only the expressions of men, but men who were much closer to those taught by Jesus and the apostles than were Luther and Calvin, who brought the “faith only” doctrine into the Reformation and thus into the modern churches.
The undeniable connection between faith and obedience is prominent in the New Testament. Luke wrote, “A great company of the priests were obedient to the faith” (Acts 6:7). Paul wrote of “the obedience of faith” (Rom. 1:5; 16:26), and “obedience of righteousness” (Rom. 6:16). He also wrote that “them that obey not the gospel of our Lord” will suffer destruction (II Thess. 1:8,9).
Peter wrote, “Seeing you have purified your souls in your obedience to the truth unto unfeigned love of the brethren, love one another from the heart fervently” (I Pet. 1:22). This sounds as though they did more than utter a prayer for their purification. In fact, there is no record of anyone being told to pray to receive salvation; rather, the specific terms of accepting God’s grace are given by Jesus: “He that believes and is baptized shall be saved,” and by Peter, “Repent and be baptized” (Mark 16:15; Acts 2:38).
Meeting these terms in no sense constitutes “works.” Neither does it add or take away from God’s marvelous grace. We can never be good enough to deserve forgiveness. We can never atone for our sins, for “The wages of sin is death; but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 6:23). The slate is wiped clean only through God’s grace and the death of Jesus His son. Eternal life remains a gift, but God promises it only to those who meet His terms in obedience. As the hymn goes:
“Trust and obey, for there’s no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”
DISCIPLESHIP
Randall Walton
The word disciple is not much used nowadays. We are not sure what the reason for this is, because it was a definite part of the vocabulary of Jesus. In the “great commission” (Matt. 28:18-20), Jesus instructed the apostles to go into all the world and “teach all nations.” The word teach comes from the Greek word MATHATUO, which is the verb form of disciple. “Disciple the nations,” or “make disciples,” Jesus ordered them.
They were not merely to convert the people, or to preach salvation through repentance (which they did), but they were to teach the people “to observe whatsoever I have commanded you,” thus making true disciples. A believer who is not a disciple is not a follower of Jesus Christ. A believer who does not observe whatsoever Jesus commanded His apostles to do is not a disciple of Jesus Christ! It is one thing to claim to be a Christian and quite another to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.
We confirm that conversion must precede discipleship. Discipleship is meant only for those who are genuinely “born again,” or born from above. To attempt to observe the commands of Jesus without having first gained admission into the kingdom of God is fruitless. The power of the Holy Spirit, which is given to every convert upon his becoming a “new creature in Christ Jesus,” is absolutely necessary in order to fulfill the words of Jesus. But the ability to “observe” His words and commands is granted to every truly born-again believer, a fact that makes us wonder why more ministers do not disciple their congregations.
The order which Jesus gave to His apostles is just as binding upon the ministry today as it was upon those men of God, for He declared, “I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” This places profound responsibility upon every God-called minister to proclaim the necessity of adhering to the commands of the Lord Jesus.
A Disciple
Jesus stated very frankly the requirements of discipleship. We will begin with Luke 14 where He listed three very demanding standards for one to be His disciple.
*Luke 14:26: “If any come to me, and hate not (i.e., love less by comparison) his father, and mother, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.” This, of course, agrees with Jesus’ discourse about the “first and great commandment” in Matthew 22:36-38: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.”
This divine requirement seems to be greatly ignored by the majority of professed believers. There is no lack of religiosity, but there does exist a scarcity of such love and devotion to God as is set forth here. Discipleship can only be assured as this requirement is met. Is it possible to love God to that degree and with that intensity? Is it really possible to put God first in one’s life? It is not only possible, it is obligatory! Discipleship depends on it.
*Luke 14:27: “And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.” What did Jesus mean by “his cross”?
A cross was an instrument of death. It meant a cessation of life to the criminal or lawless person. Jesus is saying that we must crucify, or put to death (extinction), everything which is contrary to the will and the standards of God. Every desire, every ambition, every plan we may have that is not according to God’s holiness must die, or cease to exist. In effect, He is saying that we must live for God and God alone. We must follow Him (come after me) in His devotion and dedication to the Father’s will. Only by doing this can we be His disciples.
*Luke 14:33: “Whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” Was Jesus serious when He uttered these words? Most certainly! Remember His words in the Sermon on the Mount: “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth.” Why was He so insistent upon this issue? Because He knew the human heart: “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matt. 6:19-21).
It is a fact that covetousness is idolatry (Eph. 5:5). It is also a fact that possessions become idols and idols draw the heart from God. It is only pure wisdom to avoid idolatry by having nothing that the heart can idolize. Not only was Jesus declaring the standards of discipleship, He was giving instruction that could prevent our losing our way through idolatry.
The early church responded to these words as recorded in Acts 4:32-35: “And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.”
*John 13:35: “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, … if ye have love one to another.” Conversely, we can say that “all men shall know that ye are not my disciples, if ye have not love one to another.”
It seems a little odd that men would set up a different standard for discipleship from that of Jesus. Claims of authenticity vary from “The correct name over the door,” to “holding to the Apostles’ Creed,” to “having a practicing prophet,” or “teaching the right doctrine.”
Jesus by-passed all these attempts at legitimacy by saying that “loving one another” is THE prime requisite for true discipleship. These other substitutes are without genuine value because they do not agree with the words of the Master.
The Second Great commandment (Matt. 22:39) is like the first: “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” As thyself? Yes, as thyself! There is no room for selfishness here. Selfishness is the way of the world. The way of Jesus is selflessness.
Every would-be disciple of Jesus should fully acquaint himself with I Cor. 13, then try to measure up to its demands.
*John 8:31: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed.” A disciple is one who “continues in my word;” that is, he is devoted to the Word of God in that he obeys it and keeps on obeying it. In today’s world it is difficult to be very involved in the Word. With television and other entertainment means vying for a person’s time and attention, there just isn’t much time to devote to Bible study and the discovery of God’s will. Life for most people has become too complicated to find opportunity to really dig into the Word. It is so much easier to let the preacher do the work of Scripture research; besides, he is paid to do it, so that’s his responsibility.
Discipleship is only for those who make walking with God the greatest priority of their lives. Pleasing God is their number one concern, and they continue on with this passion day after day after day: “continue in my word.”
*John 15:8: “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.”
In this parable, Jesus speaks of fruit, more fruit, and much fruit. The production of fruit is so essential, He said, that if none exists, the Father breaks off the fruitless branch so that it is no longer attached to the vine. A disciple of Jesus is one who produces MUCH fruit, or an abundance of fruit.
A fruit-bearing branch will produce the kind of fruit which is native to its vine or parent. A Christian branch will produce Christ-like fruit; that is, it will bear the qualities and nature of its plant, or vine.
Paul spoke of the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22,23), that which is produced in the life of a person who walks and lives according to the Spirit of God. These divine qualities should be in evidence in the lives of every person who claims Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord.
When you find such a person as this, you can know that you have found a true disciple of Jesus Christ, for “by their fruits ye shall know them” (Matt. 7:16-20).
THANKSGIVING
Editor
It’s that time of year again when we are all encouraged to remember the many blessings we have. While we should always be thankful, we tend to either forget or become so busy that we don’t take the time to count our blessings. Having a day each year is a tradition that is good if we use it to evaluate the many ways we are blessed as a nation, as a church, in our communities, and in our families. The freedoms we still have are a tremendous blessing and, while things are not perfect, we still are blessed above many nations and people in the world.
The greatest blessing a person can have is to have his sins nailed to the cross of Christ and to be set free from its bondage. Those who know Jesus Christ and have been washed in His precious blood are surely blessed far above what we deserve. The most popular verse in scripture is that spoken by Jesus Christ to Nicodemus, “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.” Those words never get old or repetitious to those who have entered into that saving grace of God and found the freedom from the old life of sin. We never grow tired of singing songs of God’s love, mercy, and grace bestowed so benevolently upon us.
There are many other things for which to be thankful, for God’s blessings do not stop when He saves us; rather He “daily loadeth us with benefits” (Psalm 68:19). If we don’t find those benefits every day, we need to ask God to reveal them unto us. How many times I think of the times God has delivered me from danger, accident, and even death. I’m sure there were many other times that I didn’t even realize I was in danger, yet God’s angels protected and kept. I also think of times when I could have easily fallen by the way because of difficulties that overwhelmed me, yet God did not allow those things to pluck me from my Father’s hand. What wonderful mercy and grace and love God bestows upon those who love Him. God provides us daily with the provisions we need to sustain life and live for Him. The old hymn entitled, “Count Your Blessings” is very appropriate this time of year, and I would encourage everyone to count them and give glory and praise to God as we think upon God’s goodness and blessings.
MY THOUGHTS
R. LIBBR
In John 15:5, Jesus reminds us that “apart from Me you can do nothing,” which really drives home the idea that without Him, we’re lost in a world filled with darkness and despair. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when life throws challenges our way, but knowing that Jesus is our source of hope, light, and joy can change everything. When Scripture tells us in 1 Peter 1:3 that we are born again to a “living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,” it brings a fresh perspective to life. We’re not just existing; we have a purpose and a reason to rejoice. Hebrews 6:19 talks about this hope being an anchor for our souls, which can steady us through the storms. And let’s not forget Colossians 1:27, which reminds us that Christ in us is our hope of glory. With Jesus, we can face anything!
In the midst of our life's storms and struggles, Jesus can fill the empty void within us. Ephesians 3:19 reminds us that we can “be filled with all the fullness of God”, who meets us in our moments of doubt and pain. It’s comforting to know that we are not alone; He calls each of us by name, just as John 10:3 says, leading us with love and purpose. When we embrace His salvation, we realize that with Him all things truly are possible. Whether we’re walking through fire from fears, doubts, hurt, pain, anger, rejection, loss, tiredness, or sickness, His strength guides us and lifts our spirits. In times of hurt and weariness, we can find peace and renewal in His presence. Every challenge we face, every tear we shed, is met with His unwavering support, helping us to rise above and find hope again.
He knew who we really are—the good, the bad, and the messy—and yet He loved us all the same. In John 2:25, it's clear that, despite knowing we’d stumble and fall, He shed His blood to cleanse us and lift us back on our feet. Each day, He invites us to walk alongside Him, calling us forgiven, His beloved children, brother, sister, friend, servant, love-slave, holy, beloved, righteous, and cleansed by His blood...His precious, life-giving blood. Our mistakes do not define us; instead, we are made whole through His precious blood, as stated in 1 John 1:7, which tells us that "the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin." Even when we struggle with confusion or depression, etc., we can take comfort in knowing that Jesus understands our troubles because He also endured much suffering while He was on earth. He walks with us through it all, reminding us that we are righteous, holy, and loved beyond measure. We are truly blessed to have such a Savior who uplifts us with grace and compassion each day.
Right now, He’s just waiting for us to let go of our worries and lean into His loving care, and trust Him to bring everlasting good out of it all. It’s amazing to think about how He wants us to trust Him fully, believing that He can turn every situation into something good. But here’s the catch: we have to make that choice ourselves. He won’t push us to do it; it’s up to us to have faith and believe in His promises. Just look at Proverbs 16:3, where it says, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” It’s about seeking His will, walking in obedience, and putting Him at the top of our priorities. When we surrender to Him joyfully, we’re embracing what’s truly best for us. So, let’s take that leap of faith, cast our cares on Him, and trust that He knows what’s best for our lives. It’s a journey worth taking!
In our daily lives, the messages from James 4:7 and Colossians 3:12 resonate deeply. James reminds us to submit ourselves to God and resist the devil, highlighting that choosing God is a powerful move that leads to peace and clarity; when we stand firm in our faith, negativity has no choice but to retreat. Meanwhile, Colossians encourages us to embrace “bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long suffering.” It’s like putting on a warm coat of compassion and understanding that not only protects us but also positively influences those around us. By actively choosing to submit to God and embodying these virtues, we create a supportive environment where love and mercy thrive. Together, these verses remind us that living with intention can help us overcome life's challenges and cultivate meaningful relationships.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Douglas Kilgore
Dear Editor and readers of TOT,
I am writing concerning the subject of PERFECTION –
There seems to be the preaching and teaching of churches today that perfection is unattainable for any of us; as well as the popular world view –
Let us search the scriptures to see what is there on the subject.
Matt. 5:48, Christ's own words: (v. 48) “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect.” This is the first of many scriptures found in the New Testament on the subject of perfection.
I ask the question, why would we be asked or commanded to do the impossible? For example, we find in I Cor. 10:13: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” God will not ask us to do the impossible.
As I see it, the only way to gain the perfection we hope to attain is by overcoming all faults and failings, as the promise is to the overcomer. Luke 6:40: “The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.”
Again, to become perfect, to gain the mind of Christ, we must work as overcomers toward perfection and be re-created in His image.
We read of the apostle Paul in II Cor. 12:7-9: (v. 7) “And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.” (v. 8) “For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.” (v. 9) “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
II Cor. 13:11 Paul's farewell: “Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind...”
More admonition for us to work to becoming perfect is found in Eph. 4:11-13. (v. 11) “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; (v. 12) “for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: (v. 13) “Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:”
Again, in Phil. 3 Paul's letter to the Philippians – (v. 12) “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus…” (v. 14) “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (v. 15) “Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.”
Col. 1:27-28: (v. 27) “To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory; (v.28) “Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:”
We read of Christ's admonition to the rich young man in Matt. 19:16: “And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” Christ's answer to him: (v. 21) “Jesus said unto him, if thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.”
In Hebrews 2, verses 9 and 10, we read: (v. 9) “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. (v. 10) “For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.”
As I understand it, we are to work toward being perfect, to have the mind of Christ, to overcome all evils of the flesh and spirit, else how could anyone abide the presence of Christ and God the Father in heaven?
Now, we find more concerning being made perfect in Heb. 13:20-21: (v. 20) “Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, (v. 21) “Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”
Heb. 12:23: “To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect.” More on perfection is found in the book of James.
James 3:2: “For in many things we offend all, If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.”
We also read from I Peter 5:10: “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.”
Let us be overcomers of the flesh and spirit, striving to gain the perfection we are called to by Christ Jesus: though we may have weakness of the flesh to keep us humble yet gain perfect thoughts, as God knows our every thought and judges thereby – Job 21:27; Psalm 94:11; Psalm 139:23; Luke 6:8; Luke 11:17; I Cor. 3:20; Heb. 4:12. “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” May God bless us all.
LETTER FROM A READER
Dear Brother Alfred King,
I write because I am in need of clarity.
Subject: re: flesh
·In one place of the Bible: God said, “I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh” …
·In another place, the Bible says: “No flesh shall stand before Me …”
·Jesus said: “…if they do this in the green what will they do in the old …”
Do all three of these describe flesh in its various ways of operating in this world, or is it referring to God’s omnipotent firstness in all events we interchange in?
Thank you for your help. E.L.
Dear E.L.
I appreciate your questions and will answer as I understand the questions and how they relate in scripture.
First, let me address the topic of the flesh. The word ‘flesh’ is used in scripture to denote different things depending on how it is used relative to the context in which it appears. In some cases, it is in reference to our body, which is called flesh. Other times, it is used when speaking of one’s carnal nature. And still other times, it is used in denoting something soft and pliable, as in the portion of scripture you referred to in your questions.
Flesh In Reference To The Body
Let’s consider first how the word is used in reference to the physical human body. Many verses in the Bible speak of mankind as flesh. But for the sake of space and simplicity, let’s go to Genesis 6, where God commands Noah to build an ark.
Let’s begin with Gen. 6:13. “And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.”
God, in His instructions to Noah, stated that He was going to destroy all men with a flood, and He refers to mankind as ‘flesh’. God told Noah that the earth was filled with violence through them (men or flesh). In verse 17 of this same chapter, God told Noah that a flood of water would be the means by which men would be destroyed. So in these verses (and many more), ‘flesh’ means the bodies of men.
But the word ‘flesh’ did not apply only to mankind, for the destruction of which God warned Noah would include animals, reptiles, birds, and other creatures which have bodies “wherein is the breath of life.”
Gen. 6:17: “And, behold, I, even I, do bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh, wherein is the breath of life, from under heaven; and every thing that is in the earth shall die.”
Gen. 6:19 solidifies this point. “And of every living thing of all flesh, two of every sort shalt thou bring into the ark, to keep them alive with thee; they shall be male and female.”
Flesh In Reference To The Carnal Nature
Two verses that use the phrase: “heart of flesh.” They are both in Ezekiel, and I list them here:
Ezek. 11:19: “And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh:”
In this verse, God speaks of removing the stony heart “out of their flesh.” It seems to me that this word ‘flesh’ refers to the body (that we have already covered), which is where the stony heart exists. When one is born again, he is given the Holy Spirit to reside within him. The stony heart that ruled him before he was born again is softened and made pliable, thereby allowing the Holy Spirit to transform him into the nature of Jesus Christ.
The second verse where the phrase, “heart of flesh” is used is Ezekiel 36:26: “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.”
In each of these verses, God foretold of His plan to save mankind through the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. He would change men’s stony and evil hearts, which gravitated toward sin and rebellion against God, to a heart that would be pliable in the hands of God. Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit, who would come within the saved one’s heart and begin a work of changing it from the old sinful nature to one that loves and fears God. When one comes to Jesus, repents, and finds forgiveness of his sins, his hard heart is changed and becomes clay in the Potter’s hand. God then begins to mold and shape that heart into the likeness of His Son, Jesus Christ. This is how the word ‘flesh’ is used by Ezekiel. This truth is found in several places in the New Testament as well.
The Apostle Paul gives us a vivid view of the heart of flesh in Galatians 5:19-20. “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath …”. This is a truly bad heart (flesh). This is what God promised to take away and place within every believer, a heart of flesh, a tender heart that will allow God to change him and replace these evil attributes into the fruits of the Spirit. The fruits of the Spirit are listed in the same chapter of Galatians, verses 22 and 23.
A Green Tree
The reference of “a green tree” is found in Luke 23:28-31. This was a statement made by our Lord as He was being led to Calvary, and it’s important that we understand the events that were transpiring so we can better understand what Jesus was actually stating. On the road to Calvary, many women were weeping and crying out because they saw that Jesus was going to be crucified. Jesus turned to them and spoke of a green tree. Here are the words He spoke when He turned toward and addressed them. “Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children. For, behold, the days are coming, in the which they shall say, Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave suck. Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us. For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?”
The word ‘flesh’ is not found in this account, so I’m not certain how this is associated with the two former questions, or if you intended to ask a different question. I will attempt to connect this account with the sovereignty of God, which is also referenced in your letter. I hope this answers the question you have regarding these verses.
Jesus, although guiltless and innocent of any and all accusations brought before the high priest and Pilate, yet was condemned. The question is: If when the innocent Son of God was falsely accused and sentenced to death (the green tree), what would it be when justice demanded retribution (the dry tree)? Jesus likens this event to two trees. A green tree has no reason to be destroyed, and it is difficult to burn. Its foliage is beautiful and therefore, desired to be kept. But a dry tree that is brown and dead needs to be burned and destroyed. Jesus was innocent and yet condemned, while the Jews were guilty of the greatest of all transgressions. Judgment and justice demanded retribution, and that retribution fell upon Jerusalem in 70 AD when Rome destroyed the city and burned the temple.
Jesus tells these weeping women that they needed to weep for themselves and their children because He knew that God’s judgment would fall upon Jerusalem, and their children would suffer that judgment. It is very possible that some of those weeping at this scene would still be alive when Jerusalem was destroyed.
However, it is also a prophetic picture of the latter days when God will judge the world in righteousness when Jesus comes again. Jesus foretold of the days just prior to His second coming and revealed a time of tribulation such as the world has never seen. This judgment will come because man has rejected the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Just as judgment fell upon Jerusalem, so in the last days judgment will come upon those who don’t walk in obedience and find deliverance in Him.
God is sovereign and He is in control of everything in this world. However, just because He is sovereign does not mean that He controls everything that happens. God, in His sovereignty, has given men free will. We all have the power of choice. We can choose to accept God’s gift of salvation, or we can reject it. God does not make the decision for us. Joshua told the Israelites as they crossed over Jordan, to “choose this day whom you will serve”. This same choice is given to every man today. Today is the day of salvation. Today is the accepted time. This is the day for men to make the right choice.
I hope this answers some of your questions and helps you to understand how the word ‘flesh’ is used in scripture. If you still have questions, feel free to write again, and I will do my best to give you a true and satisfactory reply.
May God bless you and guide you in your search for truth as you study His word.
Your brother in Christ, Alfred King
CHOOSE
Rene Rankhorn
A while back, while I was struggling and praying, I heard a profound message in my spirit: “Choose.” This simple yet powerful word embodies a reality we often overlook – every moment presents us with choices that shape our lives. Whether we realize it or not, our decisions – no matter how small –shape our attitude and how we go about our day. It's all too easy to drift through life without giving much thought to our actions or words. After all, we’re reminded to think before we speak, a practice that encourages mindfulness in our interactions. Each morning, we wake up and decide our perspective; bad nights may leave us grumpy and exhausted, yet we still hold the power through Jesus Christ to choose joy, gratitude, or positivity instead. We just have to choose to step into and use that power. That’s what I need to choose every time. Not just once in a while, but every time.
Ultimately, our choices can elevate our spirits and glorify God, ourselves, or the enemy. As it says in Joshua 24:15, “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Life is all about these choices, and embracing that power can make a big difference in how we live each day. Life can be tough, and there are days when I feel completely drained, like after a night of little sleep, or the effects of fibromyalgia, or constant physical pain. Despite these things, I know I have a choice to make. Instead of letting my circumstances drag me down, I can choose to focus on praising the Lord. It's not always easy, but it's essential to remind myself that every day I need to step into that power and lean on Him, no matter how I’m feeling. It’s about making that choice to obey the Lord over and over again, not just once in a while.
By shifting my focus from my struggles to my faith, I find the strength to persevere and live with purpose. I often am under constant attack from the enemy, various challenges, and distractions. It’s easy to get caught up in everyday life and forget to equip myself with the full armor of God. Choosing to stay alert and wear my spiritual armor isn’t always the first thing on my mind when life gets hectic. Sometimes, I might slip into condemnation, self-loathing, or doubt because I have let my armor slip and let the enemy in. Intentionally putting on that armor makes a world of difference. It’s not just a one-time decision; it’s about daily choices to stay grounded and protected, even when it feels overwhelming. Embracing the teachings and support found in His Word helps strengthen me against those relentless attacks, reminding me that I’m never really alone in the fight. Jesus said in John 10:10, “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”
Jeremiah 2:19 says, “Thine own wickedness shall correct thee, and thy backslidings shall reprove thee: know therefore and see that it is an evil thing and bitter, that thou hast forsaken the LORD thy God, and that my fear is not in thee, saith the Lord GOD of hosts.” In today’s world, distractions abound, serving as tempting barriers that divert our attention from fulfilling God's will. These things can become idols to us. The pervasive influence of television shows, social media platforms, and various gaming options can lead us to squander precious time that could otherwise be invested in spiritual growth and familial relationships. Many parents, including myself before I returned to Jesus Christ, have often resorted to placing their children in front of screens, seeking a moment of peace or productivity, without recognizing the long-term impact of these choices. This pattern raises concerns about the values and behaviors of the newer generations. Thus, we must make deliberate choices regarding how we allocate our time and impart our values. The well-being of our lives, as well as those of our children and grandchildren, hinges on our ability to prioritize spiritual nourishment over transient distractions, ensuring we remain aligned with God’s purpose.
Choosing God is a central theme in the Bible, showing us just how crucial it is to dedicate our lives to His will. This journey isn't just a one-time decision; it's filled with choices that shape our relationship with God, influence our character, and ultimately determine our eternal destiny. Throughout Scripture, particularly in the New Testament, we see how the Holy Spirit plays a key role in helping us navigate these choices. He guides us to align our lives with the teachings of Christ Jesus, encouraging us to live in ways that reflect our faith. The Holy Spirit is always there, nudging us in the right direction. Confessing the Word of God daily is a powerful decision that can transform our lives. By keeping His Word at the forefront of our minds, we prioritize spiritual growth and clarity amidst life’s distractions. Allowing the Scriptures to illuminate our path enables us to navigate challenges with wisdom and grace, shaping our perspectives in a way that reflects His truth. As we immerse ourselves in His teachings, the Word guides our hearts in every intimate aspect, fostering a deeper connection with Christ. “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled” (Matt. 5:6).
To live a fulfilling and purpose-driven life, it is paramount to make intentional choices that draw us nearer to Christ. We must consciously choose to cultivate a deep craving for God, seeking a more profound relationship with Him in every season we encounter. Surrendering to His way in all aspects of our lives allows us to align our decisions with His divine guidance. In doing so, we pattern our lives after His Word, embracing it as the foundational blueprint for our existence. Recognizing that His way is perfect and just, we find our hearts satisfied when we commit to following His direction. Letting His Word navigate our paths leads to clarity and peace, shaping our actions, thoughts, and desires according to His will. Ultimately, choosing to draw close to Christ fosters a joyous spirit and enriches our journey, grounding us in His everlasting truth. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you...” (James 4:8). I thank God that He sent His Son so we can have an abundant life full of God’s promises as we choose to surrender and obey.
JOHN TIMOTHY DOCKUM
November 18, 1938 – September 23, 2025
The year 2025 has not been a good year for members of our PLG church because we have had another member pass away. This is the third passing we have experienced this year, and we certainly feel the loss.
Brother John Dockum has been with this church since he was very young and he met his late wife Anne while living in Alabama, and after a short engagement, they were married on December 22, 1957. They served God together throughout their married life and labored for and in the ministry of People of the Living God. John was an artist and craftsman, and he was involved in most of the building projects here in Tennessee. Before moving to Tennessee, he worked for the church in New Orleans on the projects there.
John had many hobbies, and he loved to paint, build things, and when the day’s work was done, you would often find him in the shop working on some project of interest or things for his family. When any work needed an artistic hand, John was the one who was called upon to do it.
John was not one who you might find in a prayer meeting every night, but he was always in a state of prayer throughout the day. He probably would fit into the category of which the Apostle Paul mentioned in I Thess. 5:17, “Pray without ceasing.” He often mentioned this was his means of staying close to God.
Brother John fell out of a tree about 20 years ago and broke his pelvis in several places, and the doctors told him he might never walk again. However, by the grace of God and John’s determination, he healed and, although in considerable pain, he continued working till the day of his death. He never wanted to sit around and do nothing, so he busied himself with something continually.
John rarely missed any of the Sabbath services and often gave testimonies of how God was working in his life. This brother is already being missed by this church, but we are certain that he has run his course and is forever with the Lord.
