Things Of Value
Rick Tincher
We (the Eastside Church of Christ) had brother Peter Ray Cole for a Gospel Meeting in August. It was well attended and the brethren were enriched by the preaching of the Gospel. Some in the Lord’s church have come to the conclusion that having such meetings is a waste of time and money. I do not agree with such a conclusion. During this Gospel Meeting I thought of several “things of value.”
First, I was reminded of the value of the meeting itself. It was a great time of fellowship. We had several visitors from area congregations – some we had not seen for a while and we were able to “catch-up” on how other local congregations were doing. The singing is always a little better at a Gospel Meeting. We also had some visitors who had not obeyed the gospel. The seed was planted as Peter Ray preached.
Second, I was reminded of the value of the church of Christ. The church is responsible for defending the Bible as the Word of God, defending the existence of God, holding up true morality, condemning ungodliness, and preaching the gospel to a lost and dying world. We must never forget the value of the church. It seems that when one fails to see its value, the Lord’s church will be replaced with man-made organizations, all of which pale in comparison. Ephesians 5:23-27.
I was also reminded of the value of sound, uncompromising preaching. I always think of the late Bob Kessinger in relation to this idea. His example taught me never to compromise and his strong stand is why so many people loved him. We need preachers who will stand without compromise. Paul told Timothy to “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” 2 Timothy 4:2.
I was also reminded of the value of the West Virginia School of Preaching. Peter Ray Cole is a graduate of that school and is doing a fine job and represents them well. I have had the opportunity to hear several of the “boys” who studied at WYSOP, and it thrills my soul to hear them and see them laboring in the kingdom. May God bless this good work.
Maybe some have decided that Gospel Meetings are antiquated and we must come up with something more subtle, such as entertainment, to reach the lost, but I agree with the apostle Paul: “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18.
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” Romans 1:16. -14310 Wooster Road, Mount Vernon, OH 43050.