by Chris Steele

In the New Testament, we are impressed by the eagerness of the crowds that came out to hear the gospel being taught. Multitudes first heard the good news of salvation from John the Baptist (Matthew 3:1-5), and then from Jesus Christ (Luke 5:15). After the death of our Lord, the gospel was preached to great crowds of people by Peter and the other apostles (Acts 2-3), by Philip, a deacon in the church (Acts 8:5, 25), and by Paul and Barnabas (Acts 14:21). Not only were these men following Jesus’ command to “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15), the early church was convinced of the soul-saving message in the gospel of our Lord, Jesus Christ (Acts 8:4).

That gospel has not changed, but unfortunately the attitude of some has. We have those among us who have lost the desire to gather together with fellow Christians and hear God’s message proclaimed. The situation can be changed if these members are willing to make a serious effort to do something about this.

Our meeting with Bill Davidson begins today and runs through Wednesday. We have a wonderful opportunity this week to hear God’s Word preached six times! The theme is focused on some things concerning first principles. It should help those who have never heard the gospel message before, as well as refresh the memories of those who may be well-seasoned in the truth. This is expressed in the song, “I love to tell the story, For those who know it best, Seem hungering and thirsting, To hear it like the rest.”

We hope and pray that each and everyone will search their heart and soul and make a commitment to support this event. Remember Bill in your prayers, that he remains in good health during the week. Pray also that the gospel will have free course to convict both the sinner and saint alike. May the weak overcome doubt and uncertainty in their lives and be more faithful in their service to God.