Weekly Article - 10/13/21

Golden Valley Christian Church

 

            Samuel Langhorne Clemens, alias Mark Twain, author and humorist, will forever be associated with Missouri, particularly Hannibal, Missouri.  Contrary to some beliefs, Twain did believe in God, having been raised by a loving, God-fearing mother.  However, his beliefs were different from the average Christian.  His belief in God was distinctly in contrast with the religious, organized church.  He called many Christians “hypocrites,” saying that, while they went to Sunday worship, they did not practice what the Bible commanded.  Many of his quotes were in response to the Bible.  For example, he once said, “It ain’t those parts of the Bible that I can’t understand that bother me, it’s the parts that I do understand.”  Unfortunately, that statement holds true for many.  For example, most Christians totally understand the two greatest commandments (Matthew 22:37-40), then totally ignore them.  It would do us all well to remember that God is also watching this take place.

            Our prayer list continually grows, so please, continue to remember those on this list.  The GV Charity Crafters continue their good works on Tuesdays at 10:00 AM.  Bible Study is held on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 PM.

            Bro Elmer’s message again came from the second chapter of James.  This chapter is one that deserves some intense study.  The Apostle Paul tells us that we are saved because of our faith (Eph 2:8-9).  James tells us we are justified by what we do, and not by faith alone (James 2:24).  The truth is, these two beliefs go hand in hand because we are saved through our faith, to do good works.  Going to church is essential, as God set up the church, which is the body of believers (1 Cor 12:27-28).  After we leave the church building, our faith will be on full display by what we do during the week.  People and God will know our faith, as revealed by our actions.  So Paul tells us we are saved by our faith, not BECAUSE of our good works, but “TO DO good works” (Eph 2:10). 

            Golden Valley Christian Church meets at 611 South Third Street in Clinton.  Sunday School classes begin at 9:30 AM, and the morning worship service is at 10:30.  Our interim minister is Elmer Fuller, and our website is www.goldenvalleycc.org, where you will also find links to access our Facebook page and YouTube sermons.  We are happy to invite you to attend our services, where you will always receive a warm welcome.