The reader has likely deduced that answering common accusations thrown against the Lord’s church is the theme of this issue of the Carolina Messenger. The need to do so is apparent when we remember the divine directive to “always (be) prepared to make a defense” (1 Pet. 3:15) and “contend for the faith that was… Read More “What DO You Believe, Christian?” — Jon Mitchell, Editor (Editorial: September, 2019)
Many have said that history is written by the victorious. This usually means that the record of the past is merely used to suit an agenda. While many exceptions to this rule exist, the age-old saying does point to an important truth: history can be abused for nefarious purposes. This may take the form of… Read More Militant Atheism And Revisionist History — Dewayne Bryant, Ph.D.
I love music. Just ask my little girls. They’d be more than happy to tell you how Daddy loves to pretend the car’s steering wheel is a microphone at his own little concert inside his head while he’s driving and blasting his music. Yes, I love music. I’m very glad music is not inherently sinful… Read More “You Think Music’s A Sin!” — Jon Mitchell
Merriam-Webster defines legalism as “strict, literal, or excessive conformity to the law or to a religious or moral code.” In the religious world, especially among those who advocate a “seeker friendly” approach, the term legalist is hurled at anyone who expresses concern for biblical authority in religious matters. Sadly, this is sometimes done by some… Read More “You’re A Bunch of Legalists!” — Adam Carlson
Religion that is not heart-felt is no religion at all! To those who might feel compelled to offer criticism by suggesting that members of the church do not believe in heart-felt religion, please be reminded of these simple truths from God. The Necessity of Heart-Felt Religion Do the words of the inspired writer Solomon come… Read More “You Don’t Believe In Heart-Felt Religion!” — Adam Orr
Facts don’t care about your feelings.”1 That is the title of an article in the winter issue of Libertas magazine. The title is actually a quote attributed to an individual by the name of Ben Shapiro who is evidently known to say this phrase during various political discussions. One might easily see how this phrase… Read More “You Are Unloving When You Teach Bible Truths!” — Spencer Strickland
There are many issues on which the churches of Christ are often criticized about. “You think you are the only ones going to Heaven!” “You don’t respect the Old Testament!” and others are often thrown our way. Perhaps the most well known criticism is the one that people give about water baptism. They will say… Read More “You Believe In Water Salvation!” — Drew Milligan
The accusation that one is a member of a cult is one that is usually taken in offense, and for a good reason. The word “cult” as normally used is a pejorative term that is relative in definition. Many people use the term to insult a group of people with whom they disagree. Most of… Read More “You’re A Cult!” — Michael Grooms
This statement is made often by people who hear members of the church advocate for the divinely authorized existence of only one church. It is a statement designed to be extremely controversial. Those who put it in question form usually want a “yes” or “no” answer. They want us to say: “Yes.” If we do,… Read More “You Believe You’re The Only Ones Going To Heaven!” — Victor M. Eskew
Carolina Messenger 