Jackson/Smith Youth Camp

 July 18-24

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                             The Written Word                        

     God's written word is rejected. ignored, and even scorned by self-proclaimed spiritual elitists in today's religious world. It is being replaced with subjective messages by charismatic gurus, who seem intent on making their mark in the galaxy of religion marketing superstars. Before one belittle God's written word perhaps he should remember that it figures prominently into God's plan.   

     When God gave Israel the ten commandments, He wrote them on stones (Deut. 4:13; Ex. 34:1). It should also be noted that Moses' law, which was actually God's law for Israel, was written: "Moses wrote all the words of the Lord..." (Ex. 24:4). Even the ministry of Christ was based upon things "written in the law of Moses, and the prophets, and the Psalms concerning (him)" (Luke 24:46, 47).

     Religious questioners of Jesus were often met by an even more insightful inquiry asked by the Lord. His typical response was "What is written in the law?" (Luke 10:26), or "Have you not read?" (See Matt. 12:3, 5; 19:4; 21:16, 42; 22:31). Perhaps all would do well to respond in the same fashion today. Too often questions pertaining to salvation are answered with "I feel" or "I think" instead of "It is written."

     In the New Testament, the apostles' doctrine was presented in written form quite early. (See Acts 15:20-29). Peter, Paul, John, and others wrote authoritatively to churches and individuals. Blessings are promised to those who read, hear, and keep what is written. ( See Rev. 1:3).

     Four things stand out about God's written word. First, it is inspired (God-breathed). "All scripture is inspired of God" (2 Tim. 3:16), thus, it did not originate from men. Second, it is complete. Therein is revealed "all things that pertain to life and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3). Third, it is final. Jude describes "the faith" as that "which was once delivered unto the saints" (Jude 3). The word "once" denotes once for all time, hence, no need exists for latter day revelations. Fourth, it is authoritative. The books are going to be opened in judgment (Rev. 20:12-15). Men shall be judged by their works based upon what is written therein.

Have you read what is written?

                                          Edward L. Anderson       _________________________________________

                           Worship Services
 
The word worship means "to adore" or "to pay homage." The New Testament describes five specific acts of worship for the Lord's church. These are:  

1. Prayer - The word, which means "a pouring out," is a significant avenue of worship. The early church was a praying church (Acts 2:42). Prayers are to be understandable, fervent, reverent, and with God's Holy Will in mind (I Cor. 14:15). We pray in the name of Jesus (Jn. 14:12; 1 Tim. 2:5) to the Father (Matt. 6:9ff).
 
2. Singing - This singing is to speak, teach, and admonish (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16). It is to be done with the whole heart (Eph. 5:19; I Cor. 14:15). The common term of singing, psallo in no way authorizes anything but vocal praise. It is a historical fact that instrumental music was unknown to the church for its first 300 years!  

3. Giving - The early church supported good works through the generous giving of its members every first day of the week (I Cor. 16:1-3). This giving is to be done cheerfully and lovingly (2 Cor. 9:7). We are instructed to give as we have been prospered (I Cor. 16:2).

4. Teach - Imparting the gospel message is an essential part of worship. Paul told young Timothy to "preach the word" (2 Tim. 4:2). This word is never to be compromised (2 Tim. 3:16, 17)

5. The Lord's Supper - Every first day of the week, Christians are to remember the Lord's body and blood through the Lord's Supper (Acts 20:7). This is a simple memorial the Lord Himself instituted (I Cor. 11:23-29). We are taught to concentrate on the cross, and our Lord's great sacrifice for us.

You will find all of these items of worship included in our praise to Him at the Carthage church. We strive to be disciplined with our time of praise, and so you can plan on each worship service lasting right at one hour.

Other Activities
In addition to our worship services, we offer many other activities for the whole family. These include, Bible classes, an active youth ministry, missions, a benevolence program and many other activities. More information about these programs can be found here.

You will not be embarrassed. 
When you come to worship with us at Carthage Church of Christ, we promise not to embarrass you, nor harass you in any way. We simply want to share the world's greatest message: God loves us so much that He gave His Son for us on a cruel Roman cross. We all need Him to be saved.

Come and share a simple, but scriptural and loving experience of worship, devotion, and study. Come and see at the Carthage Church of Christ!

                     --Taken from Getting to Know You by Steve Hale--