Posted on by Paul N. Merideth

Experiencing Jesus

During the holidays my movie watching skyrockets. I enjoy quality cinema, the kind with rich storytelling and thoughtful technique; think Jurassic Park, not Jurassic World Rebirth. And yes, the theater experience far exceeds the at-home one. My partiality for quality-only films and the theater experience prompts me to reflect on our worship as believers. Christian worship is not meant to be watched from a distance. It is an encounter, an embodied moment that draws us beyond observation into something richer and more transformative. True, genuine-quality worship is rooted in the incarnate Christ who entered our world in flesh and blood so that our whole selves could encounter him in meaningful ways.

Cinematic theory offers surprising parallels. Directors speak of qualia, the felt qualities of an experience that cannot be reduced to simple description. A sunset on screen is more than its colors, and a close-up of a trembling hand is more than pixels. Similarly, worship invites us to experience Christ’s presence. Singing, prayer, communion, and Scripture reading each carry their own spiritual qualia; stirring awe, conviction, gratitude, and hope in ways that surpass explanation. This echoes the psalmist’s invitation: “Taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8), a reminder that our faith engages the whole person.

Filmmakers also note how the eyes can become “an organ of touch,” especially in scenes marked by haptic perceptuality: moments when you don’t simply watch the story but feel it. The textures, nearness, and details create a sense of contact. Worship can work the same way. When we gather in Jesus’ name, we do not only look toward him as spectators. His presence touches us. Lifting our voices or receiving communion becomes a kind of spiritual tactile moment, a place where Christ meets us in real and embodied ways.

Another cinematic idea concerns the use of indexed and non-indexed camera angles. Sometimes the lens points directly at what the viewer must see. Other times it invites discovery through subtle or indirect cues. God uses both approaches. At times, the gospel feels unmistakably indexed: Jesus speaks clearly, Scripture convicts plainly, and we know exactly what he is asking of us. Other moments are quieter and non-indexed: gentle conviction, providential encounters, or unity with the Spirit. These understated moments reveal that Christ continues to guide those who recognize his voice. As Jesus profoundly says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27).

Taken together, these images remind us that worship is an experience rather than a passive event. We think, feel, respond, and participate. We encounter Jesus not as viewers in the seats but as disciples fully engaged in the presence of the living Lord.

Paul N. Merideth

Posted on by Paul N. Merideth

In Christ

Have you ever tried to board a plane by running really fast beside it? Or maybe by standing underneath it admiring how powerful it looks? Perhaps you think you can make it home from your travels simply by studying the plane’s engineering without ever actually climbing aboard. Sounds ridiculous, right? None of these will get you home. The only way to reach the destination is to be IN the plane. When you’re in the plane, what happens to it happens to you. If it soars, you soar. If it lands safely, you land safely. Yet many people try to admire Jesus from a distance, hoping close proximity alone is enough.

2 Corinthians 5:17 tells us, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” The only way to arrive at our eternal home is to be IN Christ. This isn’t just religious jargon—it’s the New Testament’s primary way of describing a Christian. Paul uses the phrase “in Christ” over 160 times. It’s arguably his favorite expression. More than simply admiring Jesus, being in Christ means being fully united with Him, embraced by His grace and transformed by His presence. What happens to Him happens to us. His death becomes our death to sin. His resurrection becomes our resurrection to new life. His standing before God becomes our standing. This is what it means to be in Christ.

So if you’re tired of trying to reach the destination on your own, maybe it’s time to stop running and get in Christ. Through faith, repentance, and baptism, His journey becomes yours and trust me, it’s first class all the way.

Paul Merideth

Current Sermon Series: Throughout the first quarter of 2025, I’m preaching a Sunday series called In Christ. You’re invited to join us each Sunday at 10:30am as we explore what it truly means to live out our identity in Him. Come connect, grow, and walk in the fullness of life in Christ—I’d love to see you there! northsidetemple.org

Book Recommendation: Consider checking out this new book by Sam Allberry from Crossway. As I’ve worked on this lesson series, I’ve found it insightful and encouraging. It explores the life-changing reality of being in Christ.

Posted on by Paul N. Merideth

Equipping the Saints

The desire of a faithful church is to see every member fully equipped to serve in God’s kingdom. In Ephesians 4:11-16, the Apostle Paul provides a compelling picture of what this looks like: a body “joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love” (v. 16). This vision is not one of passive participation but of purposeful engagement, where each member contributes to the upbuilding of the whole. A thriving church is alive and active, filled with individuals committed to serving God and one another.

Paul Merideth

David’s encounter with Goliath offers a powerful example of being equipped for God’s work. When he faced the giant, David did not go empty-handed or rely on tools that didn’t suit him. Instead, he used the resources and skills unique to him—a sling, five stones, and an unshakable trust in God. Armed with these, he overcame a seemingly insurmountable challenge. In the same way, God equips every believer with unique talents, tools, and opportunities perfectly suited to their mission.

Scripture reminds us repeatedly that our strength and readiness come from God. The psalmist declares that it is God who equips us with strength (Psalm 18:32), and Paul writes that Scripture makes us “competent, equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:17). These truths empower us to step boldly into the tasks God has prepared, confident that He provides everything we need to succeed.

A church that embraces this vision becomes a place of unity, zeal, and maturity. Unity comes when every resource and talent is dedicated to God’s glory, fostering a sense of shared purpose and collaboration. Zeal is evident when members are eager and enthusiastic about participating in the life and mission of the church. Maturity develops as individuals grow in faith, enabling the church to carry out its ministry with wisdom and effectiveness.

When every member takes up the call to be equipped for service, the church flourishes. It becomes a community that builds itself up in love, deeply engaged in fulfilling God’s mission in the world. This is not merely an aspiration but a call to action. Each believer is urged to pray for God’s guidance and strength, to seek opportunities for growth, and to contribute actively to the life of the church.

The writer of Hebrews offers a fitting prayer: “Now may the God of peace… equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight” (Hebrews 13:20-21). May this prayer shape and inspire all who seek to be equipped for every good work, faithfully building one another up and carrying out God’s will.

Bible Reading Plan

Reading through the entire Bible in a year can be a challenge for many. Why not try a two-year plan instead? Over 2025 and 2026, journey through the entire Bible at a steady pace. This plan includes readings on weekdays only, leaving weekends open for catching up or deeper study. You can access the reading plan HERE.

Posted on by Paul N. Merideth

This Christmas: Just Believe

I am not a Grinch. I love Christmastime—it’s my favorite season of the year. In fact, I enjoy The Polar Express and its heartwarming message. All those TV holiday specials are great family fun. But I do have a complaint, and it’s about one word we see plastered everywhere this time of year: “Believe.”

You’ve seen it on ornaments, holiday cards, and even glowing in front-yard light displays. BELIEVE! It’s everywhere. Don’t get me wrong; I love the word. But I think we should handle it with a little more care.

Paul Merideth

As a Christian minister, I’m concerned that “believe” has been diluted into a vague sentiment. It’s become a shallow slogan afflicted with the Hallmarkification effect, stripped of its profound meaning and tethered to little more than seasonal cheer. We’ve orphaned the word from its theological context and expect it to carry, all naked and alone, the entire weight of our holiday hopes.

The truth is the word believe carries immense significance in the Christian faith. It is central to who we are as God’s people. And while I don’t begrudge Santa his sleigh, I must insist that “believe” belongs to something infinitely greater. So, I propose we reclaim it and carefully put it back in its nest with the rest of sacred vernacular.

Here’s why this is important. We don’t merely “believe” in an undefined ethereal spirit of winter tidings or a vague sense of holiday magic. No, we believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. We believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord—who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered for our sins at his crucifixion, died, and was buried. On the third day, He rose again. He ascended to heaven and is seated at the Father’s right hand. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. This is what we believe.

“Believe” isn’t just a word to dangle in twinkling lights or print on a mug. It’s not to be etched alone without its divine object clarified. Indeed, the object of our belief is God. It’s a cherished faith conviction that connects us to the God of the universe. Jesus Himself said, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me” (John 14:1). And Paul reminds us, “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9).

This Christmas, let’s reclaim the depth of what it means to believe. As we enjoy the holiday lights and festivities, let’s reflect on the One who gives us hope, joy, and peace—not just for a season, but for eternity. May your Christmas be filled with love, generosity, and the light of Christ. Whether through acts of kindness, a shared smile, or a helping hand, let’s each embody the good news of Jesus this season. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and pray for the Lord’s continued favor upon us all. After all, I believe in our good and gracious God.

This article was published in the Temple Daily Telegram‘s “Life & Faith” section on Saturday, December 21, 2024. Check it out on their website HERE.

Posted on by Paul N. Merideth

Christian Self-Care

In today’s world, “self-care” often evokes images of spa days, digital detoxes, and naps. While Jesus’ ministry was filled with intense demands and self-sacrifice, we see clear examples of how He cared for His own soul in ways that are strikingly relatable. His “self-care” practices included prayer, setting boundaries, and spending time with friends over meals.

First, prayer was central to Jesus’ life. Luke 5:16 notes, “But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.” Despite the constant needs around Him, Jesus often took time alone with the Father, seeking rest, strength, and guidance. This wasn’t an occasional retreat; it was a regular rhythm in His life.

Jesus also demonstrated the importance of saying “no.” When the disciples urged Him to continue performing miracles in Capernaum, He replied, “I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns as well; for I was sent for this purpose” (Luke 4:43). By setting boundaries, He showed that being faithful to His mission sometimes required stepping away from immediate expectations.

Finally, Jesus valued friendship and community, often gathering with His disciples over meals. Whether He was at a wedding in Cana, reclining at the table with Mary and Martha, or sharing the Last Supper, Jesus used these moments to strengthen His relationships and teach His followers. Matthew 11:19 says, “The Son of Man came eating and drinking,” showing His delight in the fellowship of friends.

While Jesus’ life was undoubtedly unique, His practices offer wisdom for us today: seek God in prayer, know your purpose, and cherish meaningful relationships.

Paul Merideth

Posted on by Paul N. Merideth

Christianity and Politics

Navigating the Intersection of Christianity and Politics: A Kingdom Perspective

As Christians, politics can often stir strong emotions and challenge our faith. How do we engage in political life while staying true to our commitment to Christ? The key lies in remembering where our ultimate citizenship is found: not in any earthly nation, but in God’s Kingdom. As Philippians 3:20 reminds us, “Our citizenship is in heaven.” This truth shapes how we should approach politics—recognizing that while earthly governments play a role in society, our first allegiance is always to Jesus and His Kingdom.

Paul Merideth

Christ’s Kingdom transcends all political systems and ideologies. While we live in the world and are affected by its politics, we must remember that no human system can fully bring about the justice, peace, and transformation that only God’s Kingdom can achieve. Jesus Himself acknowledged this when He said, “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36). As followers of Christ, we are called to engage with the world, but our engagement must reflect the values of God’s Kingdom—love, justice, truth, mercy, and humility.

Living as citizens of heaven doesn’t mean withdrawing from political or civic life. Jesus calls us to be the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-16), influencing society by living out God’s truth. In a democracy, voting is a way we exercise our stewardship, reflecting our values in the choices we make. We should vote thoughtfully and prayerfully, aligning our decisions with biblical principles, while avoiding the temptation to place our hope in political leaders or systems. Psalm 146:3 warns us not to “put your trust in princes,” reminding us that ultimate hope lies in Christ alone.

In a divided world, Christians are called to be peacemakers. Political differences can create deep divisions, but our identity in Christ should guide how we treat others, especially those with whom we disagree. We must approach political conversations with humility and grace, promoting understanding and love over hostility and division. Ultimately, our political engagement should reflect our allegiance to Christ, and our actions should point others to the hope found in Him.

To hear my sermon on “Christianity and Politics” from October 6th, 2024, presented at the Northside Church of Christ in Temple, Texas, click HERE.

Posted on by Paul N. Merideth

Truth Decay

Paul Merideth

In today’s world, the idea of truth can feel a bit slippery. But according to Jesus, truth is something solid, something real. In John 8:32, He tells us, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Truth isn’t just about personal opinions or perspectives—it’s about what lines up with reality. Think of it like this: Saying a cake is delicious is subjective; saying it has 250 calories per slice is objective. It’s a fact, no matter how we feel about it. While subjective truth is shaped by personal feelings and perspectives, objective truth remains constant, unaffected by individual beliefs.

For Christians, the Bible is the ultimate source of objective truth. It’s not just advice or suggestions—it’s God’s will, laid out for us to follow. In John 17:17, Jesus prayed, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” He was asking God to help us live by the truth. Just as we rely on oxygen for life, we need truth to navigate a world filled with lies and misinformation. We don’t have to stumble through life second-guessing everything. We can trust God’s Word to guide us.

There’s a lot of noise out there, though. Society has moved away from seeing truth as fixed and often treats it like something we can invent or decide on collectively. Take Harvard University as an example. Believe it or not, it is a school that started out with a mission to train Christian ministers. Their motto was “Christ and the Church,” alongside “truth.” However, as society moved away from religious foundations, the motto was reduced to simply “Veritas” (truth). This change illustrates a broader societal trend where truth is treated as subjective or as something decided collectively rather than grounded in the reality of God’s word. But the fact is, you can’t have real truth without starting with God. Unfortunately, Harvard today has strayed far from its original commitment to the Christian worldview.

As believers, we need to be on guard. The Bible tells us to “test the spirits” (1 John 4:1) because not everything we hear is true, even if it sounds convincing. We live in a world full of echo chambers where ideas get repeated so often we start to believe them just because they’re familiar. But we need to ask ourselves: Does this line up with what God says?

At the end of the day, Scripture is our compass. It’s the standard to measure everything else. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us that “all Scripture is breathed out by God… for training in righteousness.” Our source for truth is not fleeting or fashionable, but grounded in the eternal Word of God. In a world of confusion, God’s truth stands firm. And in a world full of opinions, God’s Word is the steady source of truth we can rely on.

If you’re in the area, we invite you to come and worship with us at the Northside CHURCH of CHRIST in Temple, Texas. northsidetemple.org

Posted on by Paul N. Merideth

Audience of One

Paul Merideth

When discussing the preaching mandate to “preach the word” (2 Timothy 4:2), I had a ministry professor who passionately warned of a great temptation. We’re tempted by an impulse to water down the truth of God’s word to make it more palatable to people’s delicate emotional sensitivities. This temptation, he said, was especially dangerous for preachers because of the urge we have to want to please everyone. No one answers the call to Christian ministry unless they have a heart for helping others, and we desperately want people to accept that help and thrive. That optimistic urge, however, runs into conflict when people stubbornly wrapped up in sin must be told to repent.

This “ministry of meaningful engagement” often requires us to change our tone from one of positive encouragement to straightforward confrontation. Sadly, it is a shift, more often than not, that leads to folks becoming unhappy with the preacher.

In the face of such a disorienting dilemma, his advice was to reorient our people-pleasing inclinations away from appeasement approaches and focus on one thing instead. He said, “Preach to an audience of one.” If our preaching honors the Lord, then we will be found to be faithful. After all, it is the Lord’s assessment of our ministry that matters most. “For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ” (Galatians 1:10). Yes, we must “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15), but let’s not miss the point that we must speak the truth.

We live in the tension between two worlds, according to the Apostle Paul. We long for our heavenly dwelling, yet work is still needed doing here. His answer? “So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him” (2 Corinthians 5:9). Notice it carefully, “we make it our aim to please him.”

So here’s my encouragement for you today… live your life for an audience of One. Don’t opt for the life choices that are engineered to most likely fit the approval of your co-workers, friends, or neighbors, thus bringing you their acceptance. Commit instead to seek, above all, the approval of the Lord. It is his assessment of you that truly matters. And when you do that, people who recognize your love and commitment to truth will treat you with respect.

  • 18th Week of 2024 Reading: 1 PETER 1:3-4. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.”
  • Prayer to God: “Heavenly Father, help me walk in Your ways and seek Your will all my days. May my life delight You as I honor You in all I do. Guide me in righteousness that I may reflect Your holiness. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.”
  • Sermon Preview: I’ll be preaching on Sunday, May 5, a sermon I’m calling “Job’s Final Exam.” God shows up and speaks out of a whirlwind and teaches Job a thing or two about just how little he knows. Then, on that Sunday evening, we’ll be finishing up our study of Job by looking at the dramatic epilogue of the narrative. You’re invited to come and worship with us.
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Accepting God’s Gifts

Paul Merideth

God is excellent at giving good gifts. I can’t say that’s always been true of me. My track record for gift-giving is demonstrably defective by the sad array of useless appliances and discarded tchotchkes at our house. But God knows us so well; he knows what we need and how best to meet those needs. The gifts that God gives are wholesome, valuable, and lovely. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father” (James 1:17). His gifts are never a flop. Odd, then, that anyone would refuse God’s good gifts. Wouldn’t it be strange to be approached by a friend who offers us a beautifully wrapped present, a gift chosen with care, and then wave them away with a barely cordial “no thanks.” That actually would be quite rude. Why would anyone refuse a gift, especially one from our Creator? Maybe God’s gifts have gotten lost in the clutter? Perhaps they’re not what we think we asked for? Could it be the wrapping doesn’t suit our style, so we refuse? Maybe we’re confused and have mistaken a blessing for a curse.

I can’t detail all the varied gifts God may offer you; there are just so many. I suppose, however, I could try mentioning a few. He provides forgiveness through Jesus, strength through the Spirit, and encouragement through the church. He has gifted us with his Word, the Bible, so that we may know his will and learn the historical record of his ways. His redeeming grace fills us with hope and guards us against defeat. He brings light and love into our lives with joys, both small and great. He often works through others to bless us with compassion. God’s gift-giving abilities are impressive.

My advice is that you be open to receiving the gifts he offers you. Don’t shake your fist in the face of a gracious God who desires to bless you. Don’t be rude; receive with a glad and humble heart what the Lord offers you. C.S. Lewis said, “God gives his gifts where he finds the vessel empty enough to receive them.” Perhaps, if you’re having a hard time seeing the gifts, then adjust your focus and look again. The problem is likely your poor attitude, not God’s negligence.

Amid Jesus’ public teaching ministry, he once talked about having an open attitude to the gifts God gives. Jesus made the point that we, even fallen humans, find delight in giving good gifts. If we can demonstrate generosity, albeit in an inexpert way, imagine how much more capable God is to gift us with blessings. “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” (Matthew 7:11). God is offering you his gifts, and it’s your choice to receive or reject them. I encourage you to accept.

  • 16th Week of 2024 Reading: LUKE 9:23-24. And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.”
  • Prayer to God: “Lord, guide us on the path of discipleship, that we may follow your teachings with humility, serve others with compassion, and spread your love to all. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.”
  • Helpful Resource: Check out the articles at Christian Courier. I have vivid memories of hearing Wayne Jackson teach and preach whenever he visited F-HU. Although he passed away in 2020, his legacy of excellent bible teaching remains alive on the Web.
  • Sermon Preview: I’ve been thinking a lot about the notion of divine authority vested in the Bible. It is a really tough sell today to convince folks that God’s Word has the final say in all matters of faith and practice. I suspect a sermon along these lines will emerge soon, likely Sunday. You’re invited to come and worship with us.
Posted on by Paul N. Merideth

Total Eclipse of the Heart

The eclipse is almost here, and apparently, it’s a big deal. I’m amazed at the news reporting that predicts the expected mass influx of umbraphiles for those communities in the swath of totality.

I wonder, though, if being without daylight for four minutes will really give us any new perspective; probably not. It seems mostly a momentary novelty. I’m sure we’ll all get right back to work afterward. Don’t get me wrong, the eclipse is an astronomical phenomenon that indeed points to the power and wisdom of God. That God created the universe with such sophistication and complexity should humble any thoughtful person and activate profound awe and wonder at His majesty.

But the eclipse has been mostly demystified, and the truth is we know the daylight will return after just a few minutes of darkness. No big deal.

What is a big deal is when the darkness doesn’t dissipate. What happens when the light doesn’t return? To fall into permanent spiritual darkness is the worst fate imaginable. A total eclipse of the heart, where we become blocked off from the light of God’s goodness, is a picture the bible uses of eternal destruction. In Jesus’ judgment parables, the unfaithful will be cast into “the outer darkness.” “In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth” (Matthew 8:12; 22:13; 25:30).

Paul Merideth

Thankfully, we are invited to remain in the light. Jesus is the “light of the world,” and whoever follows him will “not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). And both as individual Christians and as God’s people, the church, we are to be a light to the nations. Jesus said to his disciples, “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14). And all God’s people are told to, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you. For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the Lord will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you” (Isaiah 60:1-2).

It’s going to get dark for a bit on Monday. Perhaps those brief moments of midnight will spark a thought or two. Maybe it will remind us how thankful we are as Christians to have escaped the doom of outer darkness and have instead been welcomed “into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9). That beautiful promise is an excellent motivator, pushing us to get out and shine our Christian light.

  • 14th Week of 2024 Reading: JOSHUA 1:8 “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”
  • Prayer to God: “Heavenly Father, I stand amazed at your presence. Help me be in awe at your wisdom and power displayed in the majesty of your creation. Remind me not just of your strength to create but also your grace to save. Thank you for the blessings of this life you give to your children. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.”
  • Helpful Resource: Check out the resources at Apologetics Press. I especially enjoyed Branyon May’s video “Our Complex Cosmos.” I think you’ll like his scientific survey and the lessons we can learn about God’s glory.
  • Sermon Preview: I’m glad to be home after being away on a mission trip. Thanks for all the prayers on my behalf. As I get ready to resume my preaching duties here at Northside, I plan to preach this Sunday about “light” (apropos in light of the upcoming eclipse) and then a set of lessons about “the nature of the church.” You’re invited to come and worship with us.