Faith Matters: To stop violence: Put down the remote, pick up the bible

Submitted by the leaders of the Greenfield Church of Christ

Published: 06-17-2018 7:21 PM

(Each Saturday, a faith leader in Franklin County offers a personal perspective in this space. To become part of this series, email religion@recorder.com or call 413-772-0261, ext. 265.)

Gun violence is on all our minds these days. The recent loss of innocent lives has stimulated a great debate over who should own guns. However, perhaps the real question should be is; “Why have people become so violent?” After all, guns, knives and bombs do not wield themselves. So why has this generation become so violent?

As a Christian, we look to the bible for answers. Proverbs 4:14-17 states, “Do not enter the path of the wicked. And do not proceed in the way of evil men. Avoid it, do not pass by it: Turn away from it and pass on. For they cannot sleep unless they do evil; And, they are robbed of sleep unless they make some-one stumble. For they eat the bread of wickedness. And drink the wine of violence.” Note the warning to avoid evil and violence. Do we make an effort to abide by this?

Today, we are immersed in media that depicts graphic violence. Television shows depict realistic scenes of beatings, murder and rapes. We pay to see “R” rated movies of which we are warned portray graphic violent content. We purchase video games for our children that immerse them into a fictional reality that rewards them for killing others. Then we wonder what is wrong with this generation. Does this sound like we are avoiding evil?

Ezekiel 45:9 states, “Put away violence and destruction, and practice justice and righteousness.” In order to have healthy emotional minds, we need to expose ourselves to things that bring goodness and kindness to each other. Fill our children’s minds with the qualities we want to nurture. Less time with the television and video games and more time serving the needs of others will go a long way to promote good mental health. Re-acquainting ourselves with the teachings of Jesus Christ will prevent the uncontrolled anger that burns in our society.

So, perhaps to stop the violence in America, we need to put down the remote as well as the gun and pick up the bible. Follow the instructions of Apostle Paul when he says in Philippians 4:7-8, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”

Also what he had instructed in Colossians 3:15, “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.” And to his audience in Rome, Romans 12:18. “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” Romans 14:19, “So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.”

About the Church of Christ, Greenfield:

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Church of Christ, located at 341 Conway St., is solely based on the pattern provided through the Holy Scriptures. We are committed to the teaching of Christ and the Apostles as they were guided by the Holy Spirit. We believe in speaking where the bible speaks and remaining silent where the bible is silent; therefore, we are not affiliated with any denominations.

Our assembly worship services are quite simple and are conducted as we understand the scriptures to command.

Our mission is to restore the church to match as close as possible that of the 1st-century church. This can only be accomplished by removing traditions, positions and changes that have been introduced by mankind.

We are committed to providing Bible studies at our building or in your home, free of charge, and at your convenience.

Our worship service is Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m.

Contact Verlon Davis at 413-625-9223

Email: greenfieldcofc.org

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