College Hill Church of Christ

Where are the Dead?
by Pat McIntosh

This question is met with confusion, numerous other questions and often disagreement between
parties discussing it. One reason this is so is because of the complicated nature of the topic of
“the afterlife.” There are numerous passages giving us glimpses, but there is little concrete
information from which to determine our answers.

There are several things that we can know. We know that the body and the spirit are divided for a
time (James 2:26). Upon Jesus’ return there will be a resurrection and a reuniting of body and
spirit for those who are “in Christ” (1 Cor. 15:16-19). We also know that a change will then
occur “in the twinkling of an eye” and we will receive an incorruptible body (1 Cor. 15:50-54).
No, we do not know what that form will be, but it will be glorious. We know that one’s eternal
destination is fixed upon their death. The rich man was told of a great gulf that was fixed,
preventing “crossing over” from one side to the other (Lk. 16:26). This tells us that there will be
no “second chances” offered upon our demise.

There is an important question for which all should seek the answer that is provided by God. We
are told that it will be beautiful beyond compare. We are told of the peace and comfort of that
home with God. The question all must ask is “How?” This question refers to how we can attain
that dwelling place for eternity. God has told us clearly how to become a Christian (hear, believe,
repent, confess and be baptized). He has also told us of the importance of so living as to remain
faithful upon being added to the church (Rev. 2:10). May we realize the eternal ramifications of
our choices this side of the grave. May we strive to do His will and receive the greatest treasure:
a home with Him for eternity.

A.M. Sermon: Where are the Dead?

1. Death Defined (James 2:26)
2. Two Unique Situations: Elijah and Enoch (2 Kgs. 2:11; Heb. 11:5; Jno. 3:13)
3. The Rich Man and Lazarus (Lk. 16:19-23)
4. Conclusions Drawn (Lk. 12:15; Heb. 9:27; 1 Cor. 15:56-58; Matt. 25:46; Rev. 21:27; 2 Pet.
   1:3; 2 Tim. 3:16-17)

P.M. Sermon: NT Survey – 2 Thessalonians (1)

Blindness
by Pat McIntosh

Blindness is something you have to experience to truly empathize with others. I have known
those who are blind, and their life was a struggle. Even the most basic things for us became very
difficult for others. It is easy to take our sight for granted.

However, there is another form of blindness that is even more crucial for us to understand. I am
referring to spiritual blindness. Spiritual blindness is involved in various aspects of our lives.
First, we can be blind to our own spiritual needs. We like to think we are self-sufficient, but that
must be overcome if we are to enjoy eternal life. Unless we are honest and open to our own
spiritual needs, we will not seek the only remedy for the sin that affects us all (Rom. 3:23; 6:23).

Then, we must overcome our blindness as it relates to lost souls. Often we look at those outside
of the church and think only of their physical form. We may have family and friends with whom
we spend a great deal of time, but blind ourselves as to their spiritual state. Until we see that
others have a soul, we will be limited in what we attempt to do for them spiritually.

Finally, we may be blind to a much needed role we need to serve. The church is comprised of
many members, serving in different capacities and having different abilities. However, they are
all needed for the proper functioning of the body. We need to open our eyes to areas in which we
can help the congregation grow.

Often, physical blindness is permanent, with no cure. On the other hand, spiritual blindness can
be cured if we will pay attention to the symptoms and seek “the cure” that God provides.

Sunday A.M. – Are Our Eyes Open? (2 Kgs. 6:15-18)
Introduction – 2 Kgs. 6:15-18; 2 Cor. 5:7; Heb. 11:13-14

1. Spiritual Needs – 1 Jno. 1:8-10; 2 Pet. 3:18; Eph. 4:15; 1 Pet. 2:2; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; Acts 2:42; 1
   Thes. 2:13
2. Evangelism – Isa. 59:1-2; 2 Thes. 1:8-9; Matt. 16:24-26; Jno. 8:31-32; Matt. 28:18-20; Mk.
   16:15-16; Acts 8:4; 1 Tim. 3:15
3. Church Growth – Acts 1:8; Heb. 5:12; Matt. 28:18-20; Phil. 3:17

Sunday P.M. – James 1:12-18 (cont)

Essentials for the Lord’s Work
by Pat McIntosh

If one were to make a list of problems areas in a given congregation, what might comprise that
list? We could possibly include moral problems, divorce and remarriage issues, disharmony, lack
of funds or any other of a number of ills many congregations face.

However, one of the greatest problems in any given congregation is that there is more work to be
done than we have workers to do them. We have a great deal of information provided in
Scripture as to the place of the Christian in the work of the church. We were created for such
work (Eph. 2:10). We are to be zealous for that work (Titus 2:14).

There any number of reasons for a congregation to be struggling in this area. These might
include the age of her members, separation by distance and not being aware of areas in which
service can be performed. Another reason may simply be the need of an “attitude adjustment.”

There are several aspects of one’s attitude that will facilitate their recognition and acceptance of
areas of service needing to be performed. First, a powerful faith will aid in that pursuit. A joyful
heart will aid us in this venture (Phil. 4:4). Other areas in which our attitudes need to grow to
effectively serve are reliance on prayer, a personal love for the Lord and a persistent effort.

These are areas we will never master, indicating that we must constantly be working on them and
improving in those areas. If the work of the Lord is going to be accomplished, it will be done by
those who have these attitude traits. If we do not have what it takes, may be those who recognize
that lack and work diligently to improve in those areas. The work has need of our efforts.

Sunday A.M. – Five Essentials for the Lord’s Work
Introduction – Eph. 2:10; Titus 2:14

1. Power Faith – Num. 13:17ff.; 14:11-12; Matt. 17:14-21; James 2:14ff.
2. Joyful Heart – Phil. 4:4; 1 Jno. 3:1-3; Eph. 1:3; 2 Tim. 4:7-8
3. Prayer – Jas. 5:16ff.; Matt. 21:18-22; 7:7-11
4. Love – Jno. 14:23-24; 1 Jno. 5:3; 2:4; Heb. 13:1; 1 Jno. 4:20-21; Heb. 10:24-25; Gal. 5:15; Lk.
   19:10; 15:1-7; 1 Cor. 13:1-3
5. Persistence – Lk. 18:1-8; Phil. 3:12-15; Ro. 12:1-2; 1 Cor. 15:58

P.M. Lesson – James 1:12-18 (cont.)