In conclusion to Paul’s first letter addressed to his “true son in the faith” (1:1), he echoed once again his instruction for Timothy to safeguard the gospel message. This is perhaps the most important responsibility an evangelist has, as Paul so consistently noted (cf. 1:3, 18-20; 4:1-6, 16; 6:3-5, 12-14, 20, 21). Outer threats must …
Continue reading 1 Timothy 6:20-21
“The hearing ear and the seeing eye, the Lord has made them both” (Proverbs 20:12). This proverb seems to simply state a fact. Yet, the fact is quite astounding. God’s wisdom is unmatched, and His creative power, unfathomable. In his obduracy, man refuses to accept the existence of a Creator. He cries, “Where is the …
Continue reading Facebook: Eyes and Ears
There are some who refuse to subscribe to the concept of the plenary verbal inspiration of scripture – every word is inspired of God. This concept is seen in scripture itself, and is the pillar that supports the Bible as a source of authority. If plenary verbal inspiration is denied, scripture cannot be used as …
Continue reading The Patternists: All from God, or none from GodThe 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)
“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 The Catechism of the Catholic Church suggests sin can be separated into two categories regarding severity: [1861] “MORTAL sin is a radical possibility of human freedom, as is love itself. It results in the loss of charity and the privation of sanctifying grace, that is, of the state of grace. If it is not redeemed …
Continue reading The Patternists: Venial and Mortal Sins?Instrumental music in worship to God is unacceptable. This sermon discusses why this is so. The reason the Lord’s church refuses to use mechanical instruments is not a matter of human tradition, but divine tradition. Ppt: Instrumental Music Outline: Instrumental Music Download: mp3
Continue reading Sermon: Instrumental Music “If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha” (1 Corinthians 16:22, KJV). In his salutation in his letter to Corinth, the apostle Paul wrote with his own hand (v. 21) two Aramaic words which were likely familiar to his audience. The first word, “Anathema,” has reference to being delivered …
Continue reading The Patternists: “Let him be Anathema Maranatha”An exegetical study of Acts 15. The apostles and leaders in the Jerusalem church determined Gentiles were gospel subjects without needing to convert to Judaism. This conclusion was reached by divine revelation, not by man’s devising. Using approved examples, necessary implications, and direct statements from scripture, they were able to discover the truth on the …
Continue reading Sermon: Establishing Authority (Acts 15)
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