Ivan Martin Jr

Amos 3:3 says, “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” This truth is often applied to human relationships. It certainly applies on the human level, but should we not consider this truth in light of our walk with God? Recently the question was raised if God has various groupings of children? How can Christians claim a relationship with God and not be able to walk together? Maybe we should analyze our walk with God. Not everybody is walking in agreement with God.

Ever since the Fall of Man, there has been a need for man to repent of his sins. His carnal desires and choices have placed him on a course away from God. In that course, he at times feels bad for the trouble he has brought upon himself. Sometimes other people suffer for his sins. Is being sorry the same as repentance? What is repentance?

Obedience is a Scriptural concept that has been questioned by Satan and carnal men. From the time of our first parents in the Garden of Eden, obedience to God is weighed with other options. “Yea, hath God said?” If God said it, did He mean it? Can another response be acceptable? Many of the varieties in Christian circles are a result of foundational differences in how people view obedience to God. The place of human existence in the eternal worlds will be the result of obedience versus disobedience.

Restitution is one of the unpopular subjects relating to the Christian life. The modern emphasis of simply accepting Jesus overlooks the need to make any wrongs right. The easy Christianity advocates would like to think that if they repent and confess their sins, that clears the record. This may be the case for many of our sins, but there are some sins that require restitution.

The virtue of humility is vital to become a Christian and to maintain the Christian life. This virtue was demonstrated by Jesus when He came to earth and during His earthly ministry. He is our best example of this Scriptural concept.

According to Philippians 2:3-11, Christ held an exalted position before coming to the earth. He was all God the Father is and was. He also inhabited eternity. He had all power and knowledge. He was equal to God the Father.

Forgiveness is a product of Calvary that restores man’s relationship with God and his fellow men. Those who do not experience forgiveness from God live with guilt. Those who do not extend forgiveness to others develop a bitterness that can be the root of many sins.

Cross-bearing seems to be one of those concepts that has many misconceptions. What is the Christian’s cross? Is our cross a personal cross that will differ from the crosses other Christians are called to bear? What is the association of self-denial and cross-bearing?

One of the characteristics of our day is the lack of contentment. It is more than our American culture that influences us to be discontented. Our carnal nature is restless and discontented. We desire to be someone we are not and seek to acquire things we do not have. How can we be happy in spite of the deficiencies of life?

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1Jo 1:9). But what does it mean to confess our sins? When is a confession accepted by God? What are the ingredients to a proper confession? Does a confession to a priest satisfy God?

Another school year is upon us. Teachers have made preparations. parents have completed back-to school shopping. The school board can relax because teacher needs have been filled. But is this what makes a good school year?

School and its success depend on many persons. If anyone is deficient in their roles of responsibility, it complicates and frustrates others who could feel they need to do more than their duty. The following is a reminder for each of us to do what is expected so this school year is a good one.