Author: Gurtler, Joshua

In all we do, let us labor for the spiritual beneficence of all men. A kind word, the touch of a hand, a financial contribution, an ear to the troubled soul, a card of encouragement or sympathy, or a word of warning or carefully constructed criticism are all encompassed in the goodness of our glorious God and Saviour, Jesus the Christ.

When we read the account of men who were supposed to be the spiritual pillars of Israel, Solomon and Rehobaoam, sanctioning idol worship within the kingdom of God, we shake our heads in disgust (1 Kings 11:7,8; 2 Chronicles 11:15). Do we claim to be better than they? Brethren, the smoke of idolatry is rapidly encircling us today. Shall we heal the brokenness of “Israel” superficially preaching, “Peace, peace, but there is no peace” (Jeremiah 8:11)? Or shall we point men back to the ancient paths (Jeremiah 6:16)? Someday there will be no balm in Gilead and sadly enough, it will be much too late (Jeremiah 8:20-22).

Prior to the ministry of our Lord and to “fulfill all righteousness,” He waded down into the muddy waters and was baptized of John (John 3:13-17). Many others were also “being baptized by him in the Jordan River confessing their sins. (Mt. 3:5,6). Though the heavens and the earth pass away with fervent heat, the deeds performed by the righteous and unrighteous alike along this historic body of water shall surely precede them into the judgment.