1st century Christianity in the 21st century
Laws that threaten religious freedom rarely begin by banning sermons. They begin with the redefinition of words — especially words like harm, hate, safety, truth, tolerance, and inclusion. Over time, those redefinitions reshape what a society considers acceptable speech, and eventually, what it is willing to tolerate from people of faith.
Continue reading “Speaking the Truth in Love – and Under Scrutiny”
Is believing in Jesus enough? Or is there more? Hear the words of Jesus:
…if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did nto come to judge the world but to save the world. He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words has that which judges him – the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. (John 12:47-48)
Continue reading “True Faith: More Than Just Believing in Jesus”
The Lord came to reveal and call us to the truth. He said:
…if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to savve the world. He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words has that which judges him – the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. (John 12:47-48)
Continue reading “Breaking Free: The Power Of Truth Over Tradition”– PARABLES OF JESUS –
The Parables of the Mustard Seed & the Unprofitable Servant (Increase our faith)
Having heard the Lord talk about offenses and the need to forgive, Peter asked Jesus,
…how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times? (Matthew 18:21)
Continue reading “Increase Our Faith: Building Devotion to God and Man”– PARABLES OF JESUS –
The Parable of the Fig Tree
Some people told Jesus about a group of Galileans whom Pilate killed. Jesus’ reponse indicated those who brought it up believed they got what they deserved. He said to them:
Do you suppose these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans because they suffered such things? I tell you, no, but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. (Luke 13:2-3)
Continue reading “Fruitless Faith: Cutting Down The Fig Tree”
Exactly two months from today, the 2021 Summer Olympic games are set to begin in Tokyo, Japan. I don’t know about you, but I am excited to watch the best athletes from across the world participate in various of sports and athletic disciplines. The agility and ability of the men and women who will compete will be wonderful to see. There are some spiritual lessons we can learn from the Olympics to help us grow in faith.
Continue reading “Spiritual Olympians: How To Train For A Life Of Faith And Victory”
It is a common perception in the religious world that for one to be healed, she or he must have adequate faith. I’m sure this false idea has allowed many fake healers to save face when their hypnotic ad-vantage over a would-be recipient has failed. And as sure as it has been a refuge for the charlatan, it has no doubt been the breaking point in the faith of those accused of failing to believe in God’s power.
Continue reading “He Had Faith To Be Healed”
Did Sarah have faith that she would conceive? Hebrews 11:11 says yes, but Genesis 18:10-15 says she laughed at God. Is there a contradiction?
Continue reading “Did Sarah have faith? Answering the Atheist”
With famine ravaging the land of Judah, Elimelech and Naomi left Bethlehem for the greener pastures of Moab. The famine did not affect them, but other trials did. Elimelech died, leaving Naomi a widow. Still seeking good in this foreign land, Naomi’s son took wives for themselves from the Moabites, Orpah and Ruth. After ten years, both sons were childless. Bad turned to worse, as both sons died. A search for a better life seemingly brought nothing but trouble and heartache.
Continue reading “Ruth 1: Exploring the Faith and Devotion of Ruth”How did Peter find out that Jesus was the Messiah? Matthew 16:16-17 says that God revealed it to Him, but John 1:40-41 says that Andrew told him. Is there a contradiction?
Continue reading “How did Peter know Jesus was Messiah? Answering the Atheist.”