Roger Meyer

A very popular song in 1969 was “One,” written by singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson and made popular by the American rock band Three Dog Night. The opening lyric of the song says, “One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do.” But is “one” always lonely?

While it is true that the number “1” is often associated with being solitary and alone, we should understand another very important concept, and that is the concept of unity—or many being together as one or at one.

Some Christian denominations attract members by offering a “feel-good religious experience,” complete with an upbeat message, live Christian rock music, encouragement to indulge in fits of emotion, and requiring little in the way of commitments. But is an emotionally charged “religious experience” truly the worship God wants?

Many have heard allegations in the news that a two-tiered justice system exists in our nation. Should some get preferential treatment over others? What does God say about justice?

What is exhortation? Is it something we need? Is it something we should give to others?

English translations of the Bible use the words exhortation and exhort. One dictionary definition of “exhortation” is “an address or communication emphatically urging someone to do something.” This word refers to the act of exhorting, inciting, or giving advice—urging someone to some course of conduct or action, or trying to persuade someone to do something.

Shepherds of old carried a rod and a staff, two important tools of their trade. For the shepherd, a rod was a stick or club that could be used offensively or defensively against a threat to himself or his flock. It was also used for discipline and counting, especially to determine the tithe of the increase of a flock (Leviticus 27:32). The shepherd’s staff was a longer and thinner stick with a hook on one end, used for guiding the flock and for capturing or saving sheep.