It must have been awhile since I've read Ephesians because I am really touched by it. In the last two or three years, we have used a chronological bible plan. There are many reasons I like it, but it does have a drawback. Most of the New Testament letters are covered in a single day. … Continue reading Ephesians 2
Sharing the Gospel
Not Of This World
On Tuesday, I wrote that we live in a theocracy. Yesterday, I followed it up with the parable of the wicked tenants saying that in this Jesus was describing the entire world. Therefore, those who are born again find themselves in a very peculiar situation. We realize that we, like Jesus, are not of this … Continue reading Not Of This World
Theocracy.
Most people object to the violence in the Old Testament and, therefore, disregard Christianity. The Law requires stoning for many offenses that today are commonplace. We think of we have come far from the days of brutish, barbaric behavior such as that. To make the point, the objectors turn the table and ask the Christian … Continue reading Theocracy.
So That Every Mouth May Be Stopped.
Salvation fascinates me. It should because it is what angels long to look into (1 Peter 1:12). I've heard several powerful testimonies in the last few days that have really charged my batteries. Of course, Jesus is the author of our salvation (Hebrews 5:9) having fulfilled the law perfectly. The law serves several purposes, one … Continue reading So That Every Mouth May Be Stopped.
The Paralytic Man
A few years ago I hosted a weekend men's group at my farm. I conjured up a bible study that proved to be quite memorable. It had to do with the story of the paralytic man in Luke 5. You probably remember it. A group of men brought their friend, the paralytic man, to Jesus … Continue reading The Paralytic Man
Arguing With God.
Several things are on my mind this morning. My bible plan has me in God's dressing down of Job and the Psalmist praising Him for his mighty deeds. I'm also amazed at the degree of deceit that we see in society today. Finally, I'm also concerned for an old alcoholic friend that is in really … Continue reading Arguing With God.
Is Repentance Necessary?
My last post covered the topic of the sinner's prayer. In particular, I was critical of the false assurance we give when we simply get people to say it. For example, seldom do we witness repentance when we lead others through the prayer. One person commented on my post that she doesn't remember repenting when … Continue reading Is Repentance Necessary?
Sinner’s Prayer
If you've ever been around an Evangelical church, you certainly have witnessed the Sinner's Prayer. It is the supposed goal of the gospel witness, to lead the person to Christ by a simple prayer. The words are not firmly established but typically include an affirmation of belief in the risen Christ and promise to turn … Continue reading Sinner’s Prayer
Knowing The Seasons
It finally happened, and I hope it's enough. When I was a small boy, my grandfather told me something that I never forgot. You see, he was a farmer and a student of the weather. He said to pay attention to the first sign of robins because we will then have one more snow. This … Continue reading Knowing The Seasons
How Does He Do That?
George Straight sings a song called, "I Saw God Today" that really got me to thinking. It's about a new father who is overwhelmed by the birth of his daughter. One line in particular stood out. It makes me wonder, "How does he do that?" Saw a flower growing in the middle of the sidewalk … Continue reading How Does He Do That?