Green Box

Albert E. Farley

After Jesus healed the leper in Galilee, He charged the man, “See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.” Mark 1:40-45. The man, however, went out and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places. Dear friends, this man – as well meaning as he may have been – was disobedient to the Lord’s charge and, consequently, was guilty of greatly hindering the Lord in His work.

We would do well to remember that the only way to honor and respect God’s greatest gift to mankind is to honor, respect, and obey His Holy Word, the Bible. He asks, “Why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Lk 6:46. Not everyone who says, “Lord, Lord,” will enter into the kingdom of heaven but only those who do the will of the Father in heaven. Mt 7:21.

If through our zeal to worship Jesus Christ, we become unfaithful by doing exactly what He commanded us not to do, we, like this healed man, become guilty of hindering His Holy Will. Human religious traditions do not further the cause of Christ. Not all worship of God is acceptable to God. Jn 4:21-24. The Lord said, “In vain they do worship me teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” Mt. 15:9. Although humanly devised religious days, months, years, and seasons may have a “show of wisdom” and may appear to be so holy, Paul called this “voluntary humility” and “will worship.” It is of no value and will perish with the using! Gal 4:8-11; Col 3:16-23.

We begin our 17th year of publication with the earnest prayer that whatsoever we may do in word or deed, we will do in the name of Jesus Christ (by His authority), giving thanks to God and the Father by Him. Col 3:16, 17. We begin with a circulation of 2,826 copies. Please help us to achieve our new goal of 2,900! Thank you for all help and prayers. –Albert.