There is a vacancy within every man. A cavernous and frigid darkness once occupied with the Presence essential for life, yet emptied by free-will. A creation seen as good, dwelling with the Good, turned to the antithesis, betrayed by one “more cunning than any” (Genesis 3:1). He boasts liberty and offers pleasure while the reservation …
Continue reading Article: What should I speak?The tranquil joy that comes with faithful obedience is to be enjoyed, yet not without vigilance. John exhorts continued faithfulness by walking according to God’s commandments. There are some who threaten that peace afforded those who enjoy God’s mercy and grace through obedience. These deceivers are opposed to Christ, or “antichrist.” They are not a …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: 2 John 7-8“God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Galatians 6:14). In contrast to the Judaizers boasting in the flesh, Paul only gloried in the Lord who had laid His life down for the atonement …
Continue reading Article: A Double Crucifixion“In the beginning God created” (Genesis 1:1). His purpose was not withheld from Him (cf. Job 42:2). His abilities transcend the impossible (cf. Matthew 19:26). With His power and through His Word creation ensued (cf. John 1:3). From nothing came something. He announced, “’Let there be light’; and there was light…’Let there be a firmament…let …
Continue reading Article: Defying Immutable LawsThe task set before a Christian is not meant to be accomplished by self. In order to get to heaven we must attain Power to Persevere from above. This lesson discusses this concept. Ppt: Power to Persevere Outline: Power to Persevere
Continue reading Sermon: Power to PersevereIn Genesis 16, Hagar called the well where she talked with God, “Beer Lahai Roi”, asking “Have I also here seen Him who sees me?” From this story we learn: 1) God sees our affliction; and, 2) God also makes Himself seen/known. Ppt: Beer Lahai Roi Outline: Beer Lahai Roi Audio: mp3
Continue reading Sermon: Beer Lahai Roi“Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the multitude of Your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions” (Psalm 51:1). Such a plea comes from one who expects his prayer to be answered. “The God of my salvation” (v. 14) is the One David petitions. He is a loving, and merciful …
Continue reading Article: Imprecations from God“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.” (1 Corinthians 9:24). The apostle Paul alludes to athletic games in the Hellenic world which attracted audiences like our own in America. The Isthmian games were well …
Continue reading Article: Run to WinThe scripture continually comforts us with the remembrance of access granted Christians to the Father. Jesus is the one Mediator and Advocate Who has allowed us such access by His righteous act of being the propitiation for our sins (cf. 2:1-2; 1 Timothy 2:5). We can have confidence in our prayers ascending to the throne …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: 1 John 5:14-17Some contend Peter did not write this letter. The argument is without sufficient evidence. The greeting, along with other internal evidence, shows Peter was the author. He makes note of his position of servitude he is in with his audience, but also gives his authority for the instruction in the letter. He is an “apostle …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: 2 Peter 1:1-4