From the pen of Dr. Sam Jones 

Just the facts! During the 50s through the early 70s, a popular television program was Dragnet. One of the key characters was a Detective Sergeant named Joseph “Joe” Friday played by Jack Webb. Detective Friday had the following catchphrase attributed to him, “Just the facts.” Detective Friday in gathering information related to a particular crime was only concerned with the “facts.” He wasn’t overly concerned with the thoughts or opinions of the various witnesses.

Also, during this same span of time, preachers (in the churches of Christ) were known for quoting “book, chapter and verse” or just the biblical facts on religious topics. In the early 80s, a transition started to occur in preachers among us; many started interjecting more frequently their opinions and personal thoughts on religious topics. There’s a great need for people like Detective Friday in the world and in the church who are concerned with “Just the facts.”

When it comes to what people need to obey to be saved - “Just the facts.” When it comes the topic of what constitutes acceptable worship – “Just the facts.” When it comes to doctrinal matters, there’s an urgent need for “Just the facts.” John has made it very clear that “facts” matter religiously. He writes in 2 John 9, “Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ (facts) does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ (facts) has both the Father and the Son.” This passage and many others affirm “facts” matter. Therefore, when it comes to religious issues, let us be less concerned with our personal opinions and others personal thoughts and more concerned with “Just the facts” i.e., “book, chapter and verse.”

May God bless you with a great day and a wonderful weekend!