Pastor Postiff extends the discussion of two weeks ago with a study of New Testament regulations for slaves and masters, freedom for slaves, slavery in ancient Rome, and the Old Testament regulation on Israelite servants and masters. There will be one more part to this series on March 5, 2016.

Deacon Widgeon continues his explanation of the text of Hosea, this time dealing with chapter 5. One interesting portion had to do with the removal of a landmark, which amounted to stealing property. The study continues into chapter 6 with a call for repentance.

Pastor O'Dell gives some overview of Hebrews and then focuses on the opening verse of the fourth chapter where the idea of the fear of God is mentioned. He emphasizes the proper definition of fear, which goes beyond mere reverential respect for God. It is helpful to take note of the object of our fear and the reason for our fear.

After reading from Scripture in Luke 9, from about 7:50 to 12:39, Pastor Postiff offered special prayer for the Smith family who lost their beloved son Hayden 6 months ago today. Pastor O'Dell then preached on the bad character of Haman with his character traits of anger and pride and the like.

Deacon Widgeon continues teaching through Hosea 4 and moves into chapter 5. He reminds us that we should obey God even if we don't understand all the ins and outs of what He has asked us to do. He also reminds us that Israel was full of pride instead of being humble and ashamed of their sin.

After reading Jeremiah 40-41, we reviewed the opening verses of Ecclesiastes 4 and continued an exposition of the "two better than one" portion of the chapter.

In answer to the issue of slavery raised in Colossians 3 and 4, as well as in preparation for a study of Philemon, we spent some time examining the issue of slavery and how the Bible talks about it. A key takeaway from this message is that kidnapping or "man-stealing," as it is called, is a crime punishable under the Law of Moses by death. Such slave trading was therefore unlawful in the nation of Israel. The next message in this series will take up a couple of difficult issues that arise from the Old Testament.

We continue our exposition of Hosea, with special attention to the remainder of chapter 4, reference to Israel's covenants in Genesis 12, the charges that God brought against her, and the lack of knowledge that ended up destroying the people of Israel. An interesting thing comes up about the responsibility of the priests of the people.

The well-known account of the sinful woman who washed Jesus feet with her hair is the subject of our communion meditation for this evening's Lord's Table service. Listen in as several brothers in the church share Scripture reading and comments, followed by Pastor's exposition of the end of Luke 7.

Don't stop paying attention just because it is the last few lines of the letter. Sometimes the most significant words come at the end! The Bible covers four issues in the final verses. First, Paul gives final greetings. Then he exhorts the people to read the letter and another letter that they will receive via Laodicea. He makes a public admonition to Archippus to fulfill the ministry he has been assigned. And finally, he gives a closing salutation.

Thus ends our study of Colossians for now! Do not be wowed by anything other than Christ, and let His gospel transform you from a worldly person to a person full of the fruit of the Spirit.