Gospel Tract and Bible Society

Eternity

Eternity defies man’s imagination and comprehension. It is not an object, nor a place, it is not a period of time. It has no beginning and it has no end. All men from Adam to the last one born will be in it.

The word eternity is used in Isaiah 57:15 where it states that God inhabits eternity. He is eternal with no beginning and no end. This can be said only of God, for man has beginning but his soul has no end. The dictionary agrees with the Bible that eternity is a duration without end; the state into which the soul passes at death and in which it remains forever and ever.

The opening statement of the Bible, “In the beginning God created the heaven and earth” (Genesis 1:1), has reference to the creation of the heaven and the earth and all things therein (Colossians 1:16-17). God has decreed that all things shall cease to exist: “the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up” (2 Peter 3:10).

The Christian's Manner of Dress

There is a way of dress that complements the Christian and his high calling. Paul writes to the Philippians, "Only let your conversation [manner of life] be as it becometh the gospel of Christ" (Philippians 1:27). An individual's manner of dress is like a window providing a look into his heart. It makes a clear statement of his estimation of himself and reveals who is the master of his life. God's will is for the human form to be adequately covered, not displayed. The true disciples of Christ have always been known for their modest dress. 

Gambling: Gain or Loss?

It is natural for man to desire a full, exciting, and rewarding life. Some people find fulfillment in achievement and education. Others spend their time and energy trying to get rich. Still others find a certain thrill in risk-taking. Some are willing to go to extreme ends for excitement. Betting and other forms of gambling are especially alluring to some. The lure of hitting the jackpot or winning large sums of money can be very addictive. Many homes have been brought to ruin by a father or mother who chose to gamble. Hearts have been broken and neglected because someone could not stay away from the bright lights of a casino.

The Cost

For many people, gambling starts in small ways. It is offered as a harmless form of entertainment, an escape from the humdrum of life. Casinos offer an alluring mix of lighting, food, drink, and music. In this party atmosphere, senses are dulled. It becomes hard to control impulses and urges. Casino workers are trained to help maintain and enhance this mood.

The Hidden Cry

What means this throbbing in my breast?
This constant search for peace and rest?
This loneliness I feel?
Even when I mingle with the crowd
this aching void is deep and loud;
Its cry is real! So real!

Vain World, can you appease this quest?
Do your vast stores supply this rest?
Then quell this longing cry!
Lo! Riches, laughter, pride, and fame,
When claimed, are merely but a name!
They fail to satisfy!

Repentance Door of Mercy

Do you know that man has been found guilty of sin by a Holy God, and sentenced to death? If he is to escape this eternal death and be eternally saved, he must receive God’s mercy. Mercy in this respect is God withholding from man the penalty which he deserves. But God does not bestow His mercy on people without condition, even though salvation is free, without price, and cannot be earned. The condition upon which God grants mercy is repentance.

Christianity-What Is It?