Evidently, among the brethren James addressed were ungodly wealthy people (cf. 1:9-11; 2:6; 4:13-17; 5:1-6). Some of the wealthy were oppressing the poor, and brethren were being tested by such wrong-doing. James explains the proper response to oppression and suffering which agrees with his previous exhortation of acceptable behavior while undergoing trials (cf. 1:2-7, 12). …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: James 5:7-11Suffering
God never promised an easy life for Christians. The path toward which God directs Christians is narrow and difficult (cf. Matthew 7:13-14). He has not been silent, nor unclear about the subject of hardships in the life of a disciple. Following Christ demands self-denial, and sacrifice (cf. Matthew 16:24-27; Romans 12:1). Along the way there …
Continue reading Article: James’ Plan for Undergoing TrialsAfter he described his conduct while ministering to the Thessalonians (cf. 2:1-12), Paul thanked God for the Thessalonians’ reaction to the gospel message. The apostles often had to stress the origin of their message due to their audience’s admiration for men-pleasers using “flattering words” (2:5). The Thessalonians did not receive the apostle’s message “as the …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 2:13-20“Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” – 2 Timothy 3:12 – “Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.” – 1 Peter 4:16 – Jesus had a task for His twelve disciples. As the incarnate …
Continue reading Article: “We find the defendant guilty of Christianity”Class Material: 1 Peter Outlines Audio: Below are links to the audio of the classes on 1 Peter. Introduction Audio: 1 Peter Introduction Chapter Audio 1 Peter 1 1:3-12; 1:13-25 1 Peter 2 2:1-12; 2:13-20; 2:20-25 1 Peter 3 3:1-4; 3:5-7; 3:8-16; 3:17-22 1 Peter 4 4:1-6; 4:7-11; 4:12-19 1 Peter 5 5:1-14
Continue reading Class: The First Epistle of PeterOn our journey to heaven we are given many choices. When we come to these forks in the road, we must be able to discern right from wrong, and choose the former. Ppt: Some Forks In The Road Outline: Some Forks in the Road Audio: mp3
Continue reading Sermon: Some Forks In The RoadOf the letters written to the seven churches in Asia, the one addressed to Smyrna was one of two without complaint. This letter is one of immense encouragement to the church experiencing great persecution. Under the rule of Domitian, emperor worship was obligatory. The Christians in Smyrna found themselves in trials day after day, choosing …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Revelation 2:8-11The scripture is filled with promises from God. God must keep those promises. Seven of the promises God has given to man are discussed. Ppt: 7 Promises From God Outline: 7 Promises From God Audio: mp3
Continue reading Sermon: 7 Promises From God
The existence of suffering has caused many to abandon their belief in God. If God is both good, and omnipotent, why is there suffering in the world? Why would God allow such a thing? The answer to this question is not far from our reach. It is possible to understand, to an extent, why God …
Continue reading Article: God and Suffering There is a popularity in seeking to cut religion out of the bible. Some say this is what Jesus came to do. However, remember what He said in Matthew 5:17, “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.” Of course Jesus …
Continue reading Article: Religion From Day To Day