Someone may say, "That is a no-brainer." When we think about the world situation, this is true. Think about all the wars going on in so many places. We know without much help that these are troublesome times.

However, I am not thinking about the world situation, but about troublesome times in the Lord's church. Note the following: "Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ" (Galatians 1:7). The inspired apostle said that the Galatian Christians were facing trouble. Specifically, I am thinking about two areas today that trouble us.

Some time back at a conference of preachers, the spokesman asked the question, "What are the biggest problems facing us today?" One preacher quickly responded, "I don't know, and I don't care." The spokesman then responded, "There you have the two greatest problems: ignorance and indifference.

In the matter of sound doctrine or ignorance, we see much false teaching. Paul said, when addressing the Ephesian elders, that it would come. "For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified" (Acts 20:29-32). The false doctrines facing us today include: 1. Salvation by grace alone through faith alone; 2. Baptism is not essential to salvation; 3. The use of instrumental music in worship is not a salvation issue; and 4. Full fellowship with non-members. Far too many do not know and do not care.

Concerning the matter of indifference, one would not need help to see that this is a problem in the world. Countless millions have an indifferent attitude about religion in general or about the Lord's church. What do we see in the Lord's church? When able-bodied people will not attend the services of the church, are they not indifferent? When church members see brethren who have quit serving the Lord and, yet, do nothing about it, are they not indifferent? When we see people in need, physically, and do nothing about it, are we not indifferent? Also, when we see so much indifference to the teaching of God's word, we must surely be in troublesome times.

Note this verse: "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for Me; Because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children." Hosea 4:6.

Think about it, brethren. Indifference and ignorance are killing the church. Let us strive to get out of complacency and ignorance of God's will and get busy for the Lord! -119 Holden St., Rogersville, AL 35652.

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