| Achieving Godly Success | July-Aug 02 LCN p. 8 | R. Ames |
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Intro: We all know ambitious individuals who drive themselves. They want success at all costs. We also know people who consider themselves failures, who constantly feel like giving up and are convinced they can never be successful. But what is true success? There is a standard of godly success, given in Scripture- and there are proven principles that can help us achieve success. Subheads: Seven Laws of Success Law 1: Set the Right Goal Law 2: Educate (or Prepare) Yourself Law 3: Maintain Good Health Law 4: Drive Yourself Law 5: Apply Resourcefulness Law 6: Persevere Toward Your Goal Law 7: Seek God's Continual Guidance Can You Really Succeed? |
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| A Christian's Need for Fasting | May-June 00 LCN p. 17 | R. McNair |
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Intro: When was the late time you fasted? Was it last week, last month or on the Day of Atonement? The answer to these questions may reveal how deeply you feel the need for regular, personal fasting. Subheads: Fasting for the Welfare of Others Fasting for Physical Protection Fasting Before an Interview Fasting to Overcome Temptation Fasting to Examine the Self |
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| A Vital Key to Failure | Nov-Dec 04 LCN p. 9 | J. Ogwyn |
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Intro: Books and seminars on success are commonplace. Walk into any large bookstore, and you will encounter an entire section devoted to "success" books. Subheads: Was Joab a Success Lessons from Joab's Life The Root of Self-Will |
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| Agape Love | July-Aug 02 LCN p. 16 | M. McDaniel |
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Intro: What aspect of your Christian life would you most like to enhance? If you could grow in any one area, which would you choose? There are numerous areas in which we, as Christians, all need to grow. Subheads: God is Love Love Fulfills God's Law Outgoing Concern Reciprocation Not Required One Love Love is the Answer |
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| Are You a Peacemaker? | July- August 99 LCN p. 9 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: The world is becoming an increasingly dangerous place. Acts of hatred and violence occur every day in homes and communities. Terrorism and the effects of ethnic strife and war are constant topics in the media. The bad news is that it is all going to get worse before it gets better- but it will get better! Subheads: Promise of Peace Cause of Strife The Way to Peace Principles of Peace |
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| Are You Dokimos? | Jan-Feb 01 LCN p. 15 | D. Wakefield |
| Intro: The Greeks had a word for tested, full-value coins. They were said to be dokimos. The word was often applied to metals or ores that had been certified as genuine, but it was also used to describe a person who was proven and known to be trustworthy. "In one century, more than eighty laws were passed in Athens, to stop the practice of shaving down the coins then in circulation. SubHeads: Is It the Real Thing or Not? A Word Study Counterfeits Are You Dokimos? |
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| Are You a Person After God's Own Heart? | Sept-Oct 01 LCN p. 4 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: Many people have heard that David was "a man after God's own heart". Many also realize that we, too, should be striving to become persons after God's own heart. But just what does that really mean? How would you know if you are- or are not? What can you do to become a person after God's own heart? Subheads: A Vital Subject Origin of the Concept David's Heart Jesus' Example People After God's Heart Seven Basic Qualities |
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| Are You 'Good Enough' Yet?" | Nov-Dec 02 LCN p. 9 | J. Ogwyn |
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Intro: Have you ever wondered whether or not you will "make it" into the Kingdom of God? Have you wondered whether you are good enough for the Kingdom right now? If you are going to enter the Kingdom, how much better must you become? Perhaps you have not phrased the questions in exactly this way, but these thoughts have gone through the minds of many in God's Church. Subheads: Looking to Abraham and Sarah The Difference Between Dead Faith and Living Faith |
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| Are You Hospitable | Jan-Feb 01 LCN p. 18 | W. Schutz |
| Intro: Many people regularly offer and accept hospitality, but one could ask: do we really need to be hospitable? Should hospitality be considered essential? |
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| Are You "Playing a Role"? | Nov-Dec 04 LCN p. 24 | J. Felber |
| Intro: Actors are seldom like the characters they play when they are acting. However, as we have seen, actors who play their roles convincingly can lead people to believe they are something they are not---they can deceive other people. Subheads: Actors and Reality Role of the Heart |
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| Ask God for Real Faith | Jul-Aug 04 LCN p. 7 | D. Winnail |
| Intro: What effect have the trials and challenges of recent decades had on your faith? Have the powerful forces in our secular, self-centered and materialistic society influenced your capacity to trust God, His word and His Chruch? Subheads: What Is Faith? The Importance of Faith Building Real Faith 1. Ask God for Real Faith 2. Add to Your Faith 3. Prove All Things 4. Know the Bible 5. Believe the Bible 6. Expect, Accept and Endure Trials 7. Gain a Godly Perspective |
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| Becoming a Leader: Five Important Steps | Mar-Apr 03 LCN p. 16 | D. Winnail |
| Intro: The Bible reveals that Christians are to become "kings and priests" to reign with Christ on earth in the millennium (Revelation 5:10; 1:6; 20:4-6). Scripture explains that God is preparing a chosen people to function as civic and religious leaders in the coming kingdom of God. Many find this hard to believe, especially when the Bible also states: "For you see your calling, brethren, that not many noble, are called" (1 Corinthians 1:26). Subheads: Think Like a Leader; Develop Courage; Learn Teamwork; Be Firm, But Flexible; Dress for Services; Be a Profitable Servant |
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| Being a Holy People | May-June 00 LCN p. 4 | J. Ogwyn |
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Intro: The children of Israel were overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude and awe. They had just witnessed one of the most dramatic miracles of all time- the Red Sea literally opening up and providing them a highway of escape from their captors! Not only had God brought them through the midst of this mighty body of water without so much as getting their feet wet, He had then closed the waters over the pursuing Egyptian army! Subheads: Called to Be Holy Holiness in the New Testament |
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| Biblical Roles for Men and Women: Outdated Curse or Key to Success? | May-June 01 LCN p. 8 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: The last half of the 20th century saw many changes. One of the most profound was the rejection of traditional roles for men and women in the family and society. Those roles are outlined in the Bible. As the Western world cut itself loose from the moorings of Scripture, pressure mounted to discount and discard the traditional biblical roles for men and women. Subheads: Costs of Change Arguments Against Roles Proper Perspective Implementing Biblical Roles |
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| Building on the Foundation of Jesus Christ | Jul-Aug 03 LCN p. 4 | J. Ogwyn |
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Intro: In the area of the country where I have lived for many years, there are frequent advertisements for foundation repair. Much of the soil in this area is clay, and it tends to crack and shift over time. This produces structural damage to the buildings themselves. Sometimes this damage is minor, and sometimes it is severe, but no structure can be more solid and substantial than the foundation upon which it is built. Subheads: A Surrendered Life A Consecrated Life A Life of Humility A Life of Service A Life of Love An Obedient Life A Life of Faith |
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| Can You Take It With You? | May-June 00 LCN p. 14 | D. Wakefield |
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Intro: It was an astonishing thing to hear. The Church member said that a man with whom he had attended Church several years ago had asserted: "Nowhere does the Bible say there is a reward for works!" Not only did this man, an elder, not believe as he once did- he had forgotten what he once believed. But what does the Bible actually say about "taking it with you?" Is there a reward for works? Do our works in this life make a difference in the Kingdom of God, or do they mean nothing after we die? Subheads: God's Economics Are Different Eternal Life Cannot Be Earned Jesus Affirmed a Reward for Works What Reward Does God Promise? |
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| Catch the Vision | Jan-Feb 03 LCN p. 7 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: Have you really caught the vision that Jesus Christ brought to this earth and that His disciples proclaimed to this world? Do you really grasp the scope of the vision that God revealed to His prophets of old? What impact has this vision of the future had on your mind? Has the reality of that vision changed your life in any way? Subheads: Vision Defined Vision of Jesus Apostolic Christianity Early Warnings Details of the Vision |
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| Challenges Ahead! | Jul-Aug 05 LCN p. 10 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: Many people find predictions about the future intriguing—sometimes even scary! We seem to have a built-in curiosity about what will lie ahead. Even the disciples asked Jesus: “What will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” (Matthew 24:3). We in the Church know that Jesus told His disciples to watch for a configuration of world-shaking events including wars, increasing violence and ethnic strife, famines, earthquakes and other natural disasters. However, Jesus also outlined a number of specific challenges that Christians and His Church would face as the end of the age draws near. While some prefer not to think about difficulties that will come in the future, Jesus had a reason for warning His disciples that “these things I have spoken to you, that you should not be made to stumble” (John 16:1). Subheads: Deceivers and Deception Judgments and Decisions Trials and Offenses Authority and Government Teamwork |
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| Child Rearing: Consistency---The Path to Security | Sep-Oct 04 LCN p. 4 | J. Fall |
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Intro: Our Spiritual Father is totally consistent in how He deals with us, His children. His guidelines are always valid, and His Word is totally trustworthy. He does not violate His own spiritual law; His attitude is not: "Do what I say, not what I do." |
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| Child Rearing: "In God's Image" | Jan-Feb 04 LCN p. 7 | J. Fall |
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Intro: "Of making many books there is no end," said Solomon (Ecclesiastes 12:12). Certainly there seems almost no end to the number of books that so-called "experts" have written on child rearing. From a wide variety of backgrounds and philosophies, experts contradict each other and leave a cloud of confusion in many parent's minds. |
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| Child Rearing: Passing the Baton | Jan-Feb 05 LCN p. 16 | J. Fall |
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Intro: All Christian parents want their children to grow up to really love the Supreme God and His way of life. We know the tremendous benefits that God’s law will bring to our children, both now and in the future—a stable and fulfilling life now, and eventual eternal life in God’s family at Jesus Christ’s return. All parents want this for their children, but they may wonder: how can parents succeed in “passing the baton” and in teaching their children to want this for themselves? |
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| Child Rearing: Self-Esteem or Self-Control? | May-Jun 04 LCN p. 10 | J. Fall |
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Intro: Our primary examples in child rearing have been our own parents. Whatever we have experienced from our parents is the pattern that is indelibly stamped on our minds, whether good or bad. Subheads: The Need for Teaching Self-Control Building Self-Esteem |
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| Child Rearing: The Legacy of Example | May-Jun 05 LCN p. 12 | J. Fall |
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Intro: As parents anticipate the birth of a child, rarely do they fully recognize that their own living example will be the most profound influence on the child’s future moral character and spiritual development. Subheads: Reflecting God's Nature Respect for God Total Truthfulness True Values Time With God |
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| Christian "Soldiers" | Nov-Dec 00 LCN p. 11 | R. Thiel |
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Intro: Since World War II, the United States Army has had an elite fighting force called the Rangers. The Rangers were called "triple volunteers", since most volunteered for the Army, all volunteered to become paratroopers and all volunteered to be Rangers. Ranger training was tough as well as multi-faceted. Rangers were trained to use all types of weapons and to fight in all types of situations. The Rangers were highly disciplined troops meant to spearhead battles and to go (and fight) behind enemy lines. Subheads: Christian Training Christian "Weapons" Christians Love Their Enemies Diligent Christian Soldiers Do Not Lose |
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| Dealing with Trials | Sept-Oct 02 LCN p. 4 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: Why is life so difficult at times? For a child blessed with a loving and nurturing family environment, every day is a new adventure, and almost every new experience generates excitement. As we mature beyond childhood, we entertain bright hopes and dreams for the future. However, as we grow older, life often darkens and becomes a series of problems- and these problems usually come at the most inopportune moments, when we least expect or want them! Subheads: Why Trials? Biblical Guidelines |
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| Do Not Be Deceived | Mar-Apr 05 LCN p. 7 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: The first and most fundamental step in avoiding deception is to recognize that Satan is real and that his goal is to deceive---especially to deceive those who have been called to understand the truth of God. Subheads: Targeting God's People Recognizing and Resisting Satan's Methods God's Goal |
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| Do Not Be Deceived- Biblical principles can help you avoid being misled! | Mar-Apr 01 LCN p. 7 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: One of Scripture's clearest warnings concerns the danger of religious deception. Jesus said: "Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, 'I am the Christ' (I am a Christian, or a minister of Christ), and will deceive many" (Matthew 24:4-5). The Apostle Paul warned that before Christ's return there will be a great falling away, and that many will be deluded because they did not love the truth (2 Thessalonians 2:3, 10-11). Subheads: A Fundamental Deception God Tests Those He Calls! Focus on Truth Define the Mission Know Your Enemy! Think Critically |
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| Do You Have a Sense of Urgency? | Nov-Dec 99 LCN p. 8 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: When it comes to preparing for the Kingdom of God, growing in faith and overcoming, doing the work of preaching the Gospel and warning the world- do you feel a sense of urgency? Or is your focus primarily on yourself and your own concerns- your job, your family, amusing yourself, doing your own thing by soaking up all that this world has to offer? Do real Christians need to have a sense of urgency? Subheads: Warnings for Us!, The Mind of Christ, Apostolic Admonitions |
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| Do You Live in the Shadows? | Mar-Apr 01 LCN p. 11 | H. Cooper |
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Intro: In Scripture, Jesus frequently used physical, everyday occurrences and familiar situations to demonstrate great spiritual lessons and truths. He described vivid parallels contrasting the good or bad of daily scenes and the gain or loss certain behaviors would bring to our spiritual well-being. Subheads: In the Beginning... Role of Jesus Christ Role and Rule of Satan Conversion and the Role of the Church |
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| Go on to Perfection | Nov-Dec 99 LCN p. 11 | G. Ehman |
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Intro: Every year the church concentrates its attention on understanding God's awesome plan of salvation by keeping His Holy Days. From the Passover throughout the Feast of Tabernacles and the Last Great Day, Christians have been made aware that God, indeed, has a plan of salvation, and that each Holy Day is a milestone in His countdown to Christ's return. God shows His concern for His people by carefully insuring that much physical and spiritual pleasure is provided for them. |
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| Having the Mind of Christ | May-June 00 LCN p. 10 | M. Fannin |
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Intro: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 2:5). Why this emphatic statement about having the mind of Christ? Since the mind is the seat of intellect, the control center for our thoughts and actions, can we really have the mind of Christ? Subheads: Thankful, Peacemaking Compassionate Merciful Committed to the Will of God |
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| How Deeply Are You Committed? | Nov-Dec 99 LCN p. 5 | J. Ogwyn |
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Intro: Commitment runs very shallow in our modern western world. Whether it is in marriage or in religion, most people want what is convenient and easy. What does Jesus Christ expect of those who would be His disciples? How much commitment is really necessary? Subheads: God's Commitment to Us Deny Yourself Take Up Your Cross Daily Follow Me |
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| How Do You Build Real Faith? | Sept- Oct 99 LCN p. 7 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: Faith in God is listed as one of the fundamental teachings of Scripture (Hebrews 6:1-2). In fact, Christians are told that "without faith it is impossible to please Him" (Hebrews 11:6). However, Jesus Christ, looking ahead to the end of this present age- our time today- raised a sobering question to His disciples. He asked, "When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?" (Luke 18:8). Subheads: What is Real Faith? The Foundation of Real Faith Why Do We Need Faith? Lack of Faith Today Building Real Faith |
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| How Much Do We Really Love? -A Lesson from the prodigal son | Feb 00 LCN p. 13 | S. Winnail |
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Intro: When I was 14 years old, I witnessed something that should have left a profound impact on my young mind. I had been attending services in a church area with my parents and was impressed with the friendly and loving people in our congregation. To me, these brethren were wonderful examples of what true, caring Christians should be. One Sabbath however, this impression was challenged as a middle-aged man arrived at church for the first time. |
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| How Much Fruit Are You Bearing | Jan-Feb 05 LCN p. 10 | J. Ogwyn |
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Intro: Have you ever visited an avid gardener? Before your visit is over, you just know that he (or she) will take you outside and show you the garden. Up and down each row, you will be shown the various plants and told how each is producing. You will hear about what it took to make each plant produce well, and what had to be done to make the soil as fertile as possible. Subheads: Humility Is Fertile Soil For Growth The Importance of Loving the Truth Bearing Spiritual Fruit |
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| How Reliable Are You? | Mar-Apr 01 LCN p. 12 | D. Roach |
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Intro: Some people are notorious for not keeping their word. Neville Chamberlain, Prime Minister of Great Britain, said in 1938 after signing the Munich Pact with Adolf Hitler, that "in spite of the hardness and ruthlessness I thought I saw in his face, I got the impression that here was a man who could be relied upon when he had given his word". Subheads: Count the Cost Before You Commit to Projects See Worthwhile Projects Through Never Worry About Who Gets the Credit Include God in All That You Do |
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| How to Live by Faith | Mar-Apr 02 LCN p. 4 | J. Ogwyn |
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Intro: The Bible has a great deal to say about the importance of living by faith. We are told that without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Abraham is held up as an example to Christians of one who actively walked with God and lived by faith. How do you actually live by faith in your daily life? This is a vital topic that every Christian needs to understand. Subheads: Step #1- Do Not Worry About What Others Are Doing Step #2- Put Your Confidence in God Step #3- Delight Yourself in the Lord Step #4- Turn Your Concerns Over to God Step #5- Rest in the Lord Step #6- Cease from Anger Step #7- Depart from Evil |
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| Jury Duty: A Christian's Perspective | Sept-Oct 02 LCN p. 7 | J. Ogwyn |
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Intro: My wife and I pulled into our driveway late one Sunday afternoon, coming home from a church trip, and I took our mail from the mailbox and brought it inside. As I quickly sorted through the mail, a large yellow notice leaped out at me. With dismay, I noted that I had been summoned for jury duty. Subheads: We Are Ambassadors for Christ Judging Righteous Judgment Mercy and Judgment |
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| Keys to Happiness: Forward from the Feast | Sept-Oct 02 LCN p. 11 | R. Reynolds |
| Intro: What is the purpose of human existence? Philosophers have pondered this question for thousands of years, but lacking God's Spirit and rejecting His counsel their answers have been unsatisfactory and incomplete. Winston Churchill, speaking before the U.S. Congress, said: "He must indeed have a blind soul who cannot see that some great purpose and design is being worked out here below" (December 26, 1941). Subheads: The Joy of the Feast The Keys The Master Key |
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| Learning to Practice the Way of Peace | Sept-Oct 03 LCN p. 4 | J. Ogwyn |
| Intro: With the fall festivals approaching, our minds are properly turned to the soon-coming time that we call "tomorrow's world"—a time when the nations will neither learn nor practice war anymore, and people will enjoy peace and security the world over. At this season of the year we frequently read, and hear commented upon, scriptures describing the peaceful and abundant world that will be ruled over by the Kingdom of God.... Will the returning Christ Christ simply snap His fingers, after which everyone will immediately start thinking peaceful thoughts? Subheads: The Origins of War The Law Points the Way Peaceful Resolution of Disputes |
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| Look Out- I'm Offended! | Mar-Apr 00 LCN p. 7 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: Do you ever get angry? Do you ever get so angry you want to scream, break something or retaliate in some way? Do you find it hard to let go of your anger? Is it difficult for you to forgive someone who has hurt you- so difficult, in fact, that you never want to see the person again? Have you ever felt guilty because you realize you are holding onto anger and hurt feelings? If these issues are real to you, then you have plenty of company! Subheads: Anger- The Dangerous Emotion! The Bible and Anger Forgiveness- A Forgotten Key To Forgive is Divine? Moral Reasoning Levels Dealing with Anger Steps to Managing Anger |
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| Military Service, the Draft and Christianity | Jan-Feb 01 LCN p. 12 | D. Haney |
| Intro: One of a parent's worst nightmares is the thought of losing a child in war. Many have made the sacrifice. But should Christian men be sacrificed in that way, for this world's armies and this world's wars? Our understanding of prophecy---current events and coming wars in the Middle East and around the world---makes of special concern the possibility of the draft being resumed. I do not wish to see you or any of your friends in the Church caught unawares. |
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| Obey God, and Enter His Rest | July-Aug 02 LCN p. 5 | J. Ogwyn |
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Intro: For 40 years, the Israelites had been wandering in the Sinai wilderness. While the oldest segment of the nation had teenage memories of life in Egypt, life in the wilderness was all that the vast majority of the Israelite population had ever known. Now the nation was encamped on the plains east of the Jordan River, preparing to enter the land that God had originally promised to their ancestor Abraham centuries earlier. Subheads: The Rest Given by Joshua Solomon's Reign- Israel at Rest God's Glorious Rest |
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| Put God's Word in Your Heart | Jan-Feb 05 LCN p. 4 | B. Faulkner |
| Intro: God has recorded His word in a wonderful, unique book for mankind, and has preserved it through the millennia. Of course, God used human instruments to put His words on parchment, skins or paper. But God wrote the book. It is His book, written to and for you! Man did not create it; God did! |
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| Ready or Not? Are You Ready for Christ's Return | May-June 03 LCN p. 8 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: Do you remember playing a childhood game called "Hide and Seek"? Everyone would run to find a hiding place, w ile one player would close his eyes...before opening his eyes and yelling, "Ready or not, here I come." Remarkable as it may seem, many today are playing a more serious version of the same game, but for much higher stakes! Subheads: Watch and Draw Close Bearing Fruit Preparing the Way Doing the Work Developing Courage Prepare to Rule |
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| Redeeming the Time: How to Turn Good Intentions Into Reality | Jan-Feb 05 LCN p. 7 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: At various times in our lives we are filled with good intentions— when we are baptized, when we marry, or when we start a new job, a new year or a new semester of school. When we are married before God, we promise to keep a life-long commitment to our spouse, and to follow God’s instructions regarding the marriage relationship. When we are baptized, we declare our intentions to live a godly life in preparation for entering the family of God. Returning home from the Feast, we are often filled with a renewed zeal to prepare for the coming kingdom of God. Subheads: Ancient Admonitions Develop a Plan Stay Close to God Prepare For Your Mission |
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| Relate to God Rightly With Head and Heart | Nov-Dec 01 LCN p. 7 | J. Ogwyn |
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Intro: Human beings are complex creatures. We have minds that set us far apart from the animal realm. Our minds are not only able to catalogue and analyze facts, but are also able to feel a wide range of emotions. From this combination of thinking and feeling, we all make choices and take actions. We relate to God, and to one another, with both head and heart. Subheads: Your Heart Can Get You in Trouble Your Head Can Also Get You in Trouble Developing a Mature Mind Having a Childlike Heart |
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| Relationships, Dating and Marriage | Mar-Apr 04 LCN p. 4 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: Are there really keys to success? Why is it important to understand the subjects of relationships, dating and marriage? How do they relate to each other? Are there valuable keys to help us succeed in these vital and very personal endeavors? Subheads: Positive Relationships Successful Dating Permanent Marriage "But I'm Single!" |
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| Religion 101 | Jan 00 LCN p. 4 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: One of the most remarkable developments that has accompanied the fragmentation of the Church of God has been to see individuals, once considered leaders in the work of God or pillars in local congregations, begin to vacillate or change beliefs they once firmly professed. Subheads: Nothing New! All Scripture is Inspired Many Teachers Deceive Many The World is Deceived Satan is Real, Not Lost Forever! Key to Prophecy Love Involves Warning! The Commission |
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| Risk Management and the Church | May-June 99 LCN p. 13 | T. Turner |
| Intro: In one sense, God Himself is the ultimate Risk Manager. In the Statutes and Judgments He prescribes such things as placing a parapet wall around a flat roof to avoid the risk of falling. He says to cover any pit that you dig so that no one falls in it. He also makes us personally liable for injuries to persons or damage to property that we cause, and in His word condemns defamation, libel and slander. Subheads: What the Church is Doing How You Can Approach Risk Examples of Managing Risk |
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| Satan's Devices: Do you know how the Devil operates and why? | Sept-Oct 03 LCN p. 11 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: We live in a world filled with problems---personal problems, problems between individuala, problems within families, churches and organizations and problems between nations. In our modern secular society, many assume that the solution to problems is negotiation, passing new laws or enforcing old ones, providing counseling or financial assistance or increasing opportunities for the disadvantaged. Subheads: Satan's Nature Satan's Goals Satan's Devices |
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| Should Christians Celebrate Birthdays? | May-June 02 LCN p. 16 | R. Reynolds |
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Intro: Job, we are told, "was blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil" (Job 1:1). Job had seven sons, and "each one on his day" made a feast (Job 1:4, Darby). Many Bible commentators regard "his day" (yowm) as most likely a reference to his birthday, as also in Job 3:1. Each time these celebrations had run their course, Job felt obliged to offer burnt offerings... |
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| Sin of Disbelief | Mar-Apr 99 LCN p. 9 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: One of the most exciting concepts that many encountered as a result of their association with the Church of God was the gospel of the coming Kingdom of God. Attending the annual Holy Days to learn more about the plan of God and the purpose of human life was important. The scriptural promise that the reward of true Christians to rule with Jesus Christ when He returns was eye opening. The opportunity to restore this battered planet and re-orient human civilization to God's way of life was inspiring. Life, which for many had been empty, seemed to finally take on real meaning. SubHeads: The Lesson of Israel A Lesson for Today Even Patriarchs and Apostles Banishing Doubts Christian Leaders |
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| Spectator or Participant | Mar-Apr 05 LCN p. 16 | H. Cooper |
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Intro: Every four years since 1896 (interrupted only by World Wars I and II), the world's best athletes have convened to take part in the quadrennial spectacle known as the modern Olympic Games. As the thousands of participants strive mightily to excel under the Olympic motto of "citius, altius, fortius" ("swifter, higher, stronger"). |
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| Spiritual Heart Disease: Will You Be a Victim? | Jan-Feb 04 LCN p. 4 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: Have you ever wondered if you had a fatal disease? How would you know? What would you do to help yourself if you recognized you had a serious health problem---especially of the heart?. Subheads: The Divine Physician Do You Fear God? What Are Your Priorities? A Penny For Your Thoughts! What Do You Talk About? What Do You Look At? Showing Love |
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| Study the Bible | Nov-Dec 03 LCN p. 4 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: Over the years, the Church of God has emphasized four keys to spiritual growth; praryer, Bible study, meditation and fasting. The Bible reveals tghat these tools were employed by individuals who were close to God and who were used mightily by God. However, a challenge that many face in learning how to pray, study, meditate and fast is how to put these keys for spiritual growth into a proper perspective. Subheads: The Right Approach Grow in Wisdom Develop the Mind of God Preparing to Rule How to Study the Bible |
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| Teamwork | May-June 00 LCN p. 7 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: One of the greatest challenges we face in this life is learning to work together with other people. This is especially difficult today because we are continually bombarded by messages that urge us to do just the opposite. Be your own person! Do your own thing! Look out for Number One! Get yours while the getting is good! Nice people finish last! Subheads: What is a Team? Teamwork Skills |
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| Ten Principles of Child-Rearing | Sept-Oct 03 LCN p. 7 | C. McNair |
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Intro: Adam and Eve led the way in child-rearing. Regrettably, they set the example that mankind has followed for 6,000 years---a mixture of success and failure. Their failure led to uncontrolled anger, violence and death (Genesis 4:8). Subheads: The First Principle: Love The Second Principle: Self Contro The Third Principle: Respect for Learning The Fourth Principle: Endurance The Fifth Principle: Godly Independence The Sixth Principle: Learning to Lead The Seventh Principle: Conquering Fear by Faith The Eight Principle: Conquering Anger The Ninth Principle: Larning to Trust The Tenth Principle: Faithfulness |
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| The Hope of a Christian | Jan-Feb 03 LCN p. 10 | R. McNair |
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Intro: God's Word says that "without faith it is impossible to please Him" (Hebrews 11:6). But it is also clear that a Christian must maintain hope if he expects to enter God's Kingdom. "For we are saved by hope" (Romans 8:24, KJV). What is the priceless Christian hope? Subheads: A World Without Hope Faith and Hope What Is the Christian Hope? "The Hope of Eternal Life"! Peter's and John's Testimony Is Our Salvation Assured? |
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| The Importance of Maintenance | July-Aug 00 LCN p. 14 | Jon. McNair |
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Intro: At one time or another, nearly everyone has had something brand new. There is nothing like a new toy to brighten the eyes of a young child. A new dress or pair of shoes is a special joy to the lady in our life. And driving a car for the first time is a thrill for the whole family. New is great! Subheads: Christian Maintenance? Maintaining Our First Love Good Works Towards Men Three-Step Maintenance Plan |
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| The Importance of Staying Focused | Jan-Feb 99 LCN p. 8 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: One of the most sobering aspects of human existence is that important lessons of history go unheeded or are soon forgotten. As a result, mistakes of the past are repeated again and again by individuals who fail to learn from history. The story of God's Church is no exception. In this article we will examine an important warning the Eternal God inspired and recorded in His Work that has clear application for us today. SubHeads: Remarkable Parallels The Warning to Ephesus The Basic Commission Early Zeal, Problems Arise Modern Applications |
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| The Parables of the Ten Virgins | Jan-Feb 02 LCN p. 4 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: Nearly 2,000 years ago, Jesus spoke the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13). For many, it is a nice little Bible story about lamps, oil and getting ready for a wedding; yet the parable is actually a warning about conditions that will exist at the end of the age. The target audience is the generation that will see the return of Jesus Christ! Subheads: The Ten Virgins Oil or No Oil? A Revealing Delay The Midnight Cry The Lamps Cannot Borrow- Must Buy! Ready or Not? |
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| Trials and Tests- Seven Lessons from the Book of Job | Jan-Feb 02 LCN p. 14 | J. Ogwyn |
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Intro: Most of the prophets of God suffered for their faithfulness. In addition to them, the Patriarch Job is pointed out as an outstanding example of steadfast faith in the way he handled severe trials. The book of Job is the story of a normal human being who is beset by misfortune and suffering. This article will present seven specific lessons we can learn about responding to trials as revealed in the book of Job. Subheads: Lesson 1- God Knows, Lesson 2- God Limits the Trial, Lesson 3- Seek Growth- Not Vindication, Lesson 4- The "Why" Often Proves Elusive, Lesson 5- Trust in the Face of Anguish, Lesson 6- God Will Ultimately Reward Both Good and Evil, Lesson 7- We Emerge from Our Trial When We Learn What God is Teaching |
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| Truly "Knowing the Lord" | Feb 00 LCN p. 10 | M. Mendiola |
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Intro: When I was in high school, a friend of mine invited me to a Sunday evening church service where people in the congregation were almost incessantly "praising the Lord" and repeating the name of Jesus. On another occasion, a group of young people invited me to a Bible study after school. All they seemed to talk about was "the Lord" this and "the Lord" that. At that time, it was common to hear people ask, "Do you know the Lord?" |
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| Vital Keys for Staying Focused | May-June 02 LCN p. 6 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: One of the biggest challenges facing Christians today is to stay focused and to maintain a right course in a world filled with trials, temptations, distractions and deceptions. Especially if we live and work around sincere and well-meaning people, it can be easy to forget that the god of this world deliberately sets dangerous traps to deceive and destroy the unwary (2 Corinthians 2:11; 4:4; Ephesians 6:11-13; 1 Peter 5:8-9). Subheads: Warnings and Advice The Word of God True God and Real Jesus The True Gospel The True Church The Church's Mission Our Personal Goal The Plan of God |
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| What Do You Love the Most? | Jan-Feb 03 LCN p. 4 | J. Ogwyn |
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Intro: What is the most important thing in your life? Your answer to that question is vitally important, because it will determine the choices you make in the days and years ahead. We are all confronted with choices and decisions every day, and those choices determine our future. Indeed, our very character is shaped by the choices we make. Subheads: Love of This Present World Loving the Preeminence Loving the Praise of Men The Love of Money Where to Set Our Affections |
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| What is a Calling from God? | Nov-Dec 00 LCN p. 4 | D. Winnail |
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Intro: The Bible speaks of people being called by God. But what does that mean? Just what is a calling? Have you been called? Is God calling you? How would you know? What proof do you have? Is everyone who believes in God called by God? Why does God call people? Does God call people for a purpose other than just to know Him and love Him? Is a calling the same as conversion? Subheads: An Old Testament Calling Jesus Explains Paul's Perspective Peter's Principles A Calling- the Ultimate Purpose! |
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| What is a Philadelphian? | July-Aug 01 LCN p. 10 | R. Thiel |
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Intro: What is a Philadelphian? This article will review the biblical passages about the Philadelphian Church and examine when it began, what its traits were, why a remnant still exists, how to determine who that remnant is- and why this is important to know. Subheads: When the Philadelphia Era Began What Are the Traits of a Philadelphian? Why Is There a Philadelphian Remnant? How to Determine Who the Remnant Is (or Is Not) Why Is This Important to Know? |
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| What is Your Attitude Toward Authority? | May-June 99 LCN p. 8 | `D. Winnail |
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Intro: How do you react when you hear the word authority? Do you feel a surge of resentment at the thought of someone being over you, or do you experience a sense of excitement about being in control? Unfortunately, the record of human history swings between these two extremes- the lust for and abuse of authority, or resentment and rebellion against authority. Subheads: Importance of Attitude The World and Authority The Source of Resentment Christians and Authority The Vital Key |
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