Ironworks

                          The book of Acts tells of the infancy of the church of Christ. In this record, we will find certain individuals who were not Christians that interact with members of the church. Gamaliel is one such character that we come across as we study Acts. He is in reality a very minor character who had an impact on Apostles as they stood before the Jewish council in Acts 5. Who Was Gamaliel? Gamaliel is described as a Pharisee and doctor of the law. He was a man with a good, and respected reputation (cf. Acts 5:34). We are told later that His influence and teaching helped to develop a young Saul of Tarsus. “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city, at the feet of Gamaliel, instructed according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God, even as ye all are this day” (Acts 22:3). What we can gather is that Gamaliel influenced many. What Did He Do? In Acts 5:27-33 we find the apostles standing before the council

  I believe the Green Bay Packers are going to play the San Francisco 49ers this Saturday at 7:15 PM, CST if the Lord does not return first. I believe this because I have testimony from the NFL, and the Fox Network that this is the case. These two entities can assure us that this is the agreed time and preparations are made for that to occur. Therefore, we can have faith that at 7:15 PM it will occur as planned. We have evidence and faith is based on evidence. Jesus said, “I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for except ye believe that I am he , ye shall die in your sins ” (John 8:24). Have you ever considered the enormity of those words? Let’s break down this verse piece by piece so that we can appreciate more of what it means to believe.  For Except Ye Believe Belief is based on evidence. Thomas sought evidence that Jesus had risen from the dead (cf. John 20:24-29). He received evidence as he placed his hands in Jesus’ side and felt his wounds. We have note

  Can we understand the Bible in the same way? Let’s face it, we are unique individuals with diverse backgrounds. We think differently from one another at times. What about the Bible? Is it possible for each of us to differ when it comes to the eternal truth of God? The Bible teaches God’s Word is truth (cf. Psalm 119:160; John 17:17). Thus, we understand that God’s Word is absolute truth. So, why do so many groups, including many educated men, disagree with the Lord’s church? One might say, “We cannot understand the Bible the same way and that is okay.” I find this remarkable, considering all the interactions we have in a day that require us to make the right interpretation. For instance, if you were to head up to the turnpike, once you go through the gate at Afton, you have a choice. If you were intending on going to Tulsa, you would cross the overpass, if you were intending on heading to Joplin, you would take the first right and not cross the overpass. Is it possible for all the