Adding That Really Counts
Nothing is more important for God’s people than adding what really counts in life. To have seen Jesus was to see what the Father is like (John 14:7-9), and to see Christians should be to see the beauty and character of Jesus in us (Galatians 2:20; Colossians 1:27). There is something tremendously challenging and humbling about that thought! In 2 Peter 1:5-11, Peter deals with the character and integrity of those who have come to know the Lord. The qualities…
Strengthening The Souls Of The Disciples
Near the conclusion of their first missionary journey, Paul and Barnabas retraced their early steps. That is, they went back to visit again with Christians they had taught the gospel. Instead of going home a different route, perhaps to other cities to share the gospel, they went back to cities already visited. Luke records the reason when he says they were, “strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, ‘we must through many…
Things that Save: It’s a “Package Deal”
Few matters can be more important than what God’s word says about salvation. When one considers the richness of what the New Testament has to say about this theme, all a person can do is express awe and wonder at the matchless mind and marvelous provision of God! Who and what saves according to the teaching of Scripture? God the Father (1 Peter 1:3-4). Jesus (Luke 19:10; 1 Timothy 1:15). The Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:11). Grace (Acts 15:11; Romans…
Getting the Picture
Although we may try to avoid them, some things in life simply are inevitable and irreversible. Things end. Things like one’s youth, one’s marriage and one’s life come to mind. And that’s exactly where Martha and Mary are with Lazarus. Their brother had been buried for four days (Jn. 11:17). His time on earth and his life were over – all hope was gone. Irreversible. The body of Lazarus likely would have begun to decompose (11:39). It’s not a picture…
Stress and Young People
Although there is some disagreement among experts as to precisely why, there is an abundance of evidence which indicates young people are experiencing a seemingly unprecedented level of stress. Psychologist Daniel Keating noted: “Depression, anxiety, and feeling overwhelmed are not all the same thing, but they do share a common feature: experiencing a level of stress that is beyond an ability to cope, with a negative impact on health and on the ability to function well in many situations” (Keating,…
Proper Perspectives of Disciples
We have been challenged through the preaching of God’s Word by Brother John Baker to consider the price paid for our salvation and the motivation it should provide to us as disciples of Jesus Christ. The main points from his sermon last Tuesday evening need to be recorded and put in a place we can see them often. Here are seven perspectives that every disciple (follower, learner, or understudy) of Jesus needs to adopt: 1. A disciple believes he is…
You, Your Struggles, and God
It’s not a question of if we’ll struggle and suffer; it’s a matter of when. That may be a reality we recognize in our lives, but it can be an altogether different matter when actually facing those times. How can we face our struggles with faith and strength in the Lord? (cf. Ephesians 6:10). How can we intentionally entrust our souls to a faithful God when we’re struggling? (cf. 1 Peter 4:19). How can we shine for our precious Lord…
Going From Abstract to Concrete
John 11:25-26 must be among the most comforting passages in all the Bible! Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” Of course, the context of these verses has to do with the death of Lazarus. Jesus especially talking to Martha at this moment. These verses are all about going from the abstract…
The Trials of Jesus
It is a passage often lost and perhaps given little thought, but in context is one of the biggest statements made by Jesus on the night He would be betrayed. Luke records these words of the Lord to His apostles in Luke 22:28, “But you are those who have continued with Me in My trials.” Jesus, in context, is teaching them about the greatness of being a servant. Greatness is found in humble service to God, but don’t let it…
My Greatest Command
The following words were pinned by a wonderful gospel preacher, Steve Higginbotham: “A little more than 150 years ago, General Robert E. Lee was camped approximately 10 miles from General Stonewall Jackson. Lee sent a message to Stonewall Jackson, informing him that he wanted to meet with him at his convenience. The very next morning, while Lee was eating his breakfast, Jackson appeared at his tent, prepared for their meeting. Lee asked Jackson, “What are you doing here? I didn’t…
A Strategy for Victory
A person who does not recognize the Devil, understand his schemes, and prepare for battle is already a casualty in the war going on for our souls (2 Cor. 2:11; 1 Pet. 5:8-9). How do we rise above our doubt, our discouragement, our indifference, our sin to walk worthy of our heavenly calling? (Phil. 3:14). God’s word gives us a powerful strategy for victory over Satan and his forces. (1) Recognize Victory Is Possible. Certainly the Devil is a powerful…
What God’s People Really Need
Outside of the Lord Himself, it seems no one instructs us more about how to pray for the church than the apostle Paul. We pray about things that are important and meaningful to us. And so does Paul in praying for the church. Thoughtful consideration should be given concerning what and how he prayed for God’s people. Let’s focus on just one example. Paul closes 2 Thessalonians with the following wish and prayer: “Now may the Lord of peace himself…