Offenses, or stumbling blocks, are a part of life. Temptations befall every man, and every man has the grave task of overcoming them. “It is impossible that no offenses should come” (v. 1). They may arise on a personal level in which one lacks self-discipline and is led away by his own folly. Yet, there …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Luke 17:1-4 Six days after Peter confessed Jesus as the Christ (8:29), and Jesus spoke of His death and resurrection (8:31-33), and encouraged His disciples and the people to follow Him (8:34-9:1), “Peter, James, and John” experienced something wonderful. After being led up a mountain, they saw Jesus transfigured, or change form. His countenance was “exceedingly white, …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Mark 9:2-10 Jesus stated in Matthew 19 the original design of marriage by God – “So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate” (Matthew 19:6). This is what God intended for mankind. Nevertheless, divorce was rampant among the nations – Israel included. Thus, God permitted …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Matthew 5:31-32 Ancient Babylon is alluded to in order to refer to Rome. The reason is evident, for Babylon and Rome share despicable qualities. Both were world-ruling cities filled with ungodliness, and a haughtiness which ignored impending doom. Thinking herself invincible, Babylon fell. The same would be true for Rome. Rome did not stand alone in indecency, …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Revelation 18:1-8 Jude’s original topic of consideration changed. “Our common salvation” is a wonderful topic to consider. It is beneficial to discuss and ponder our “like precious faith” (2 Peter 1:1) and its eventual reward. By such conversation we are edified, and encouraged. But what if we lose the hope of such salvation? Being deceived and falling …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Jude 3-4 The first half of this short epistle acknowledged righteous living. Gaius was one who was walking in truth. He eagerly housed brethren, and as such became a fellow worker for the truth (v. 8). This section presents a stark contrast to the commendable character Gaius displayed. Diotrephes had the audacity to arrogate any position of …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: 3 John 9-12The tranquil joy that comes with faithful obedience is to be enjoyed, yet not without vigilance. John exhorts continued faithfulness by walking according to God’s commandments. There are some who threaten that peace afforded those who enjoy God’s mercy and grace through obedience. These deceivers are opposed to Christ, or “antichrist.” They are not a …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: 2 John 7-8The scripture continually comforts us with the remembrance of access granted Christians to the Father. Jesus is the one Mediator and Advocate Who has allowed us such access by His righteous act of being the propitiation for our sins (cf. 2:1-2; 1 Timothy 2:5). We can have confidence in our prayers ascending to the throne …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: 1 John 5:14-17Some contend Peter did not write this letter. The argument is without sufficient evidence. The greeting, along with other internal evidence, shows Peter was the author. He makes note of his position of servitude he is in with his audience, but also gives his authority for the instruction in the letter. He is an “apostle …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: 2 Peter 1:1-4After discussing the topic of suffering for doing what is good, Peter gives an exhortation to elders. They are to be leading the flock in such circumstances of adversity. Peter can relate to their position for he is also an elder and has suffered for doing what is good. His future holds the glory promised …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: 1 Peter 5:1-4