After 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 2:13-20Jeremiah Cox
It is encouraging to see younger generations develop a zeal for God and His word. It is paramount with regard to the future of the church. We do not want to make the same mistake Israel made – “When all that generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation arose after them who did …
Continue reading Article: Are you sure you love the gospel, or do you love a philosophy?Upon his description of the Colossians’ state in Christ, the apostle Paul gives practical application. The Christian is to repent from his past sinful actions, or “put to death” and “put off” such actions. The apostle gives two reasons for eradicating these sins in their lives. 1) “The wrath of God is coming upon the …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Colossians 3:5-11How can we grow numerically? How can we grow spiritually? How can we eradicate apathy? How can we bridge the gap between the elderly and the youth? How do we ensure evangelical success? These are a few of many reappearing questions in the minds of the spiritually discerned, and concerned. This mindset is admirable. We …
Continue reading The Patternists: Violations of the Pattern: Reformation VS RestorationGod has given to us “exceedingly great and precious promises” (2 Peter 1:4). However, these promises are conditional. How do we secure our inheritance? Outline: Inheriting God’s Promises Audio: mp3
Continue reading Sermon: Inheriting God’s PromisesThe concept and importance of zeal is discussed. In addition, absent, misdirected, and properly directed zeal are compared. We must be the “special people [of God], zealous for good works” (Titus 2:14). Ppt: Zeal Outline: Zeal Audio: mp3
Continue reading Sermon: ZealTemporary – Our time on earth is not meant to be permanent. James wrote, “for what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away” (James 4:14). All of our time is running out (cf. 2 Peter 3). Important – Time is given to us by …
Continue reading Article: TimeFacebook is a popular form of social media of which many Christians are a part. It is an effective way to keep in touch with relatives, and friends that live apart from one another. A user can post a “status update” that tells others what they are doing, their mood, etc. One can also post …
Continue reading Article: Christians on FacebookThere is a scarlet thread of redemption that runs through the scriptures. From Genesis to Revelation we can see God’s plan unfold before us. This plan for mankind was necessary “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). However, the world wants to focus on the scheme of redemption …
Continue reading Article: Remorse for SinThose in the world dwell on things that are ungodly. They have an appetite for immoral, and disorderly things, and they “set their mind on earthly things” (cf. 3:19). In contrast, Paul, by inspiration, commands that the Christian meditate on things that are of virtue, and worthy of praise. Our thoughts should not be filled …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Philippians 4:8-9