Prior to a final exhortation in verses 6-15, Paul set a foundation for a proper response from the Thessalonians. The exhortation would include a reminder about that which he already wrote (cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:11; 5:14). In order to elicit the most appropriate response, Paul first gave attention to their past and present obedience. As …
Continue reading 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5The “day of the Lord” was used in the Old Testament in reference to days of destruction, revenge, punishment, and also deliverance. It is used in the New Testament to refer to the second coming of Christ when He will judge the world – sentencing everlasting punishment to evil doers, and everlasting salvation to the …
Continue reading Sermon: The Day of the Lord 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 5:1-11
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 1:1-8An exegetical treatment of Galatians 3 and 4. To turn back to the Old Law would be illogical and self-defeating. Its purpose was not to justify. Justification is found in Christ. Under the law there is bondage, but in Christ there is freedom. Download: mp3
Continue reading Sermon: Bondage Under Law, Freedom In ChristIn order to inherit the promises of God, we must have great faith and patience. Just as the Hebrew writer instructed, “And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and …
Continue reading Sermon: Through Faith and PatienceFor the Christian, prayer is extremely important. It is a vital facet of our lives if we wish to grow spiritually. One element of prayer is intercession – praying to God on someone’s behalf. This lesson emphasizes the two intercessory prayers Paul made on the Ephesians’ behalf. Ppt: Paul’s Intercessory Prayers for the Ephesians Outline: …
Continue reading Sermon: Paul’s Intercessory Prayers for the EphesiansThe Bible is clear about the necessity of baptism in the plan of salvation. Yet, the denominational world refuses to accept this fact as they preach the error of “faith only.” They turn to Bible passages which concern salvation that do not explicitly mention baptism. However, they fail to realize that baptism is implied in …
Continue reading Sermon: Where in this passage is baptism?
By himself, man is feeble. He is incapable of everything if he has not God. Thus, the feeling of utter helplessness and hopelessness can infiltrate our minds. Some may feel as if the odds are stacked against them – “There is no way I am going to make it to heaven.” Perhaps you have grown …
Continue reading Against All Odds