The historical setting of this text, Acts 4:10-12, takes place in the early days of the Christian church, shortly after the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The events described in Acts occurred in Jerusalem, where Peter and John, two of Jesus’ disciples, were actively preaching and performing miracles in the name of Jesus. TheContinue reading “Background of the Text”
Category Archives: Reference
The New Worldview
While the World Health Organization has declared that COVID-19 is no longer a “public health emergency,” America’s embrace of syncretism — the fusion of different religions — and the growing rejection of a biblical worldview remains a threat to general quality of life in a post-pandemic world, especially for children, new research from the CulturalContinue reading “The New Worldview”
How Can I Know That I Am Redeemed?
It is certainly possible for a person to know that he is saved and is ready to meet God. In fact, God intends and desires us to have this assurance.First, however, we should realize that trying to live a Christian life is not sufficient. As the Apostle Paul says, “For I know that in meContinue reading “How Can I Know That I Am Redeemed?”
From Suffering to Peace
While vacationing in Arches National Park, I lay awake in a hot tent as my family slept peacefully under the stars. Distraught, I wept bitterly, pleading with the Lord for deliverance. My face, arms, hands, and feet burned profusely as if drenched in acid. In the dark, away from cell service, I writhed, broken andContinue reading “From Suffering to Peace”
Did Celebrity Kill Jesus
Popularity is dangerous. We’ve all heard the cautionary tale of a celebrity whose rising star crashes to earth. Or maybe we’ve watched narcissistic leaders who use and abuse those around them. When people start drawing a crowd, it rarely ends well. But knowing this truth doesn’t keep us from dreaming of fame. Nor does itContinue reading “Did Celebrity Kill Jesus”
Was Khrushchev Right?
Can anyone who has lived long enough (60 plus years) doubt that American culture has changed dramatically in the past half century? Can anyone who has watched television for a half century or more doubt it? I well remember when Soviet Union premier Khrushchev pounded his fist (some say his shoe!) on the podium atContinue reading “Was Khrushchev Right?”
What Was In the Ark of the Covenant?
Interestingly, the most complete inventory of the contents of the ark of the covenant is found in the New Testament: Hebrews 9:4 says that the Most Holy Place had “the gold-covered ark of the covenant. This ark contained the gold jar of manna, Aaron’s staff that had budded, and the stone tablets of the covenant.”Continue reading “What Was In the Ark of the Covenant?”
Redefining Success
Recently, an artist from a very successful worship group parted ways with them. I am intentionally leaving the names out because I want to focus on the substance; I don’t want this to just be another gossipy type of article. What caught my attention in the story were two quotes that were posted on thisContinue reading “Redefining Success”
The Perils of Success
Some of the darkest, most irresistible temptations come in the wake of blessing. As we enjoy some provision or breakthrough or triumph, whether in life, or work, or ministry, our spiritual defenses often come down. We might coast. We may begin neglecting disciplines and relationships that have kept us close to and dependent on Jesus.Continue reading “The Perils of Success”
5 Will Get You 10
Q: What is the relationship between law and grace? A: Law and grace have come to be pitted against one another as enemies, when in fact, they are friends. The God of the Old Testament and the God of the New have been placed in opposition, when in fact, they are one and the same.Continue reading “5 Will Get You 10”
Intentional Faith 