“I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the holy brethren” (1 Thessalonians 5:27). Paul did not simply request that the brethren read the epistle, but commanded them to do so. Some view the reading of scripture as optional. Some who read do so casually, as if it does them …
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The previous verses contained Paul’s explanation concerning that of which the Thessalonians were ignorant (cf. 4:13-18). The current text serves as a reminder of things of which the brethren were already informed – the coming of the Day of the Lord, and the conduct to be assumed by those who look forward to that day. …
Continue reading 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11The Hebrew word, “hesed,” is found in the Old Testament 247 times. Many times, it is translated into “lovingkindness.” However, because of the deep meaning found in the Hebrew, it is also translated into several other English words (mercy, kindness, faithfulness, goodness, etc.). It is not only a central theme of the Old Testament, but …
Continue reading Sermon: Lovingkindness (Hesed)
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His lovingkindness is everlasting” (Psalm 136:1, NASB). Psalm 136 is a great manifestation of the constancy of God’s lovingkindness (translated “mercy” in the NKJV). This concept of “lovingkindness” denotes the condescension of the transcendent Creator in love, mercy, goodness, and loyalty to His creation as …
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The apostle Paul began his letter to the saints in Colosse by mentioning his avid intercession on their behalf (cf. 1:3). Before detailing the prayer, he explained the reason he prayed for them (cf. 1:4-8). Having heard of their faithfulness in Christ after the preaching of the word by Epaphras, he continually thanked God, and …
Continue reading A Prayer On Behalf of the Colossians Like he did with all of his epistles, Paul identified himself as the author. Along with him in his ministry, although not necessarily in writing the epistle, was his close companion Timothy. Paul had not founded the church in Colosse, nor is it likely that he had seen them personally, yet his love for them …
Continue reading Colossians 1:1-8
“Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance, the only thing it cannot be is moderately important.” – C.S. Lewis It is a shame that so many express an attitude of indifference toward Christianity. For some, it is not a matter of unbelief (in the most general sense), but is …
Continue reading The Patternists: No Middle Ground“I have made a covenant with my eyes; Why then should I look upon a young woman?” (Job 31:1). It is important that we commit ourselves to righteousness. In doing so, we must learn how to avert our eyes. We must not look into various things if we seek to please God. Ppt: A Covenant …
Continue reading Sermon: A Covenant With My EyesPhilippians 2:19-24 contains Paul’s informing of the Philippians that he would send Timothy to them. He explains why he chose to send Timothy. Three points are made concerning Timothy’s good reputation as a faithful Christian. We would do well to emulate him. Ppt: A Reputation Like Timothy’s Outline: A Reputation Like Timothy’s Download: mp3
Continue reading Sermon: A Reputation Like Timothy’sThe northern kingdom of Israel had been taken into captivity by the Assyrians. Nebuchadnezzar was given Assyria by God, and was making his way to the southern kingdom of Judah. Instead of drawing nearer to God during such a threatening time, Judah placed their trust in the access they had to the temple. They lived …
Continue reading Sermon: Remember Shiloh!