Doctrine
The “D” word has fallen out of favor in some places. Some suggest that it cannot be preached and should only be discussed at the most arcane level. Instead we preach about love and acceptance, grace mercy, favor and the like. Doctrine is out of favor. In some places, doctrine is seen as that which […]
But I Said I’m Sorry!
Bob and Carol had an awful fight. After yelling at each other for almost 2 hours the house settled into a chilling silence. Finally, a full day after the battle Bob came and sat beside his wife. “Carol, look, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said what I did and I was wrong. Please forgive me.” […]
Conversion
Conversion is a process of change. Water placed into a freezer is converted into ice. That same water, placed over a fire, will change or convert into steam. Spiritually, we are changed from death into life: “We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. Whoever does not […]
Being A Christian
Being a Christian is a unique and joyful experience when we properly fill the role. The unrighteous may heap scorn upon the child of God. But, he has nothing comparable to the strength, power and happiness that fills the Christian. Because of the special place the faithful disciple enjoys, his life should be full of […]
The Primacy of Jesus
Jesus is first. There is no salvation without Jesus. There is no approach to God apart from Jesus. Culture warns us to be tolerant of other beliefs and other faiths. That’s fine as long as we never take Jesus down from his position as King of Kings and Lord of Lords (1 Timothy 6:14; Revelation […]
Aspiration
“A strong desire, longing or aim; ambition; a goal or objective desired.” How do men become fathers? Men become fathers through the biological process of sex. But how does one become a daddy? That has nothing at all to do with sex. One becomes a dad by observing other men already in the role. Hopefully […]
Praising Teens
Teens are often criticized. Their lifestyle, way of thinking, priorities and such are often assailed. While their behavior may be different than an adult’s it is not necessarily wrong. Minority teens and teens from inner city neighborhoods are especially subject to criticism. But here’s a story about two teen girls from inner city Jersey City, […]
The Teacher
The Gospels present the life of Jesus. Acts gives us a history of the earliest church. The letters offer us insight into the early church problems and challenges. Revelation gives hope for the future. But what about the Old Testament? If you look carefully at the pages of your favorite Bible you may find the […]
When Elders Make Mistakes
The appointment of elders was a pressing need in the opening days of the church. Paul told Titus to “appoint elders in every city” (Titus 1:5). The character, maturity and reputation of elders were all important considerations according to the apostle (1 Timothy 3:2-7; Titus 1:5-9). Jesus entrusted the spiritual safety of the church to […]
Ruth – Know the Book
The book of Ruth is perhaps the sweetest story of love and devotion found in the Old Testament. The story is first centered on Naomi, a tragic character facing a desperate life following the death of her husband and both of her sons. Left in a distant land with only two young daughters-in-law it seems […]
