James continued the theme of his epistle – “be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (1:22) – by bringing to the mind of his audience an attitude which was ungodly and destructive. He speaks of presumption (v. 13-15), arrogant boasting (v. 16), and the sinfulness of omission (v. 17). It is …
Continue reading James 4:13-17
If we wish to please our Creator, we must first understand that, “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). A lion’s hunger cannot be satiated with a bale of hay, nor can a cow’s with a juicy piece of meat. God cannot be pleased with mere …
Continue reading Making Spiritual Things Carnal“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ“ (2 Corinthians 10:4-5). The gospel of Christ is powerful. It withstands any opposition. …
Continue reading Sermon: Captive to the Obedience of Christ
“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 …
Continue reading Facebook: A Charge to Read 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)Philippians 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’s Paul had great affection for the brethren in Philippi. He answered the Macedonian call, and laid the foundation of Christ (cf. Acts 16:6-40). He witnessed the gospel working on the heart of Lydia and her household, and experienced a distraught man in the jailer transition to a state of rejoicing in the Lord with his …
Continue reading Philippians 2:19-24 Up to this point, the inspired Apostle had discussed God’s plan of salvation, the structure of His church, the need for moral living, and the correct way to act in various relationships. In conclusion to this great epistle, Paul boils everything down to the great struggle the church, and individual Christians are having to endure. …
Continue reading Ephesians 6:10-13“For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). This lesson discusses the name given Christ, Wonderful. Ppt: And His name will be called Wonderful Outline: …
Continue reading Sermon: And His name will be called Wonderful