You’ll never guess where I began learning the scores—hundreds, really—of Bible verses that have filled my mind for about a half century. It was at Eastside Elementary School in Elizabethton, Tennessee. This small redbrick schoolhouse was two blocks from my house, and I spent six happy years of my life there. Thankfully, the prohibition againstContinue reading “Putting Scripture Where We Won’t Lose It”
Tag Archives: Jesus
Timeless Truths in a Modern World
The passage in Matthew 10:32-39 emphasizes allegiance, sacrifice, and discipleship, echoing through the Old and New Testaments. In today’s cultural challenges, confessing Christ and taking up one’s cross remain pertinent. Commentaries deepen our understanding, prompting personal and communal reflection. Living out these teachings necessitates bold confession and practical implementation, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The narrative of Jesus calming the storm parallels the themes of faith and divine intervention, highlighting unwavering trust in God’s sovereignty. The teachings equip believers for spiritual battles and encourage steadfast faith. In contemporary society, believers face similar themes of commitment and opposition, calling for resilience and unwavering allegiance to Christ. This challenges believers to stand firm, grow spiritually, and uphold ethical integrity. In the church, the passage underscores the call to boldly confess Christ and prioritize discipleship, emphasizing the mission of evangelism, discipleship, and social justice. It challenges believers to embody the teachings of Matthew 10:32-39 and be agents of hope and transformation in a divided world.
As the Day Begins
Matthew 10:32-39 (NIV) “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven. Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. ForContinue reading “As the Day Begins”
Jesus and the Law
John Ivanowski faced renal failure and needed a kidney transplant. His daughter, a nurse, secretly qualified as his donor. Like Jesus fulfills the Law, she selflessly fulfilled her father’s need. The text urges us to cherish Jesus’ teachings, strive for righteousness, and share His truth. Trust in Him can change our lives like Elizabeth Payson’s.
The Lamb and the Scroll
In Revelation 5, John sees God the Father holding a sealed scroll. It represents the title deed to the earth, signifying redemption through divine judgment. No one in heaven or on earth is worthy to open it until the Lion from the tribe of Judah, and the Root of David, steps up as the slain Lamb. His worthiness prompts worship from the elders, angels, and all creation, ushering in the fulfillment of redemption.
Mighty to Save
We have two of his paintings. He is also a thoughtful theology student. Henry never knew he had any talent for painting or interest in theology until he went to prison. Henry is a student in our Seminary-in-Prison program. In one of his paintings that we have on the wall in our living room, aContinue reading “Mighty to Save”
Sowing Seeds of Compassion
The passage Matthew 9:35-38 reflects biblical themes of compassion and mission, emphasizing God’s care for His people and the call for active discipleship. Contemporary relevance includes addressing societal needs with empathy and action. Insights from scholars France and Calvin deepen understanding of Jesus’ ministry and the believer’s role in God’s redemptive mission. Believers are challenged to live out the passage’s call to trust in God’s sovereignty, actively participating in His work with faith and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Its relevance to contemporary challenges involves addressing injustice and spiritual hunger while cultivating deeper faith and reliance on God’s power and presence. The passage holds guidance for the contemporary church, urging compassionate outreach and embracing its transformative mission.
Harvesting Wisdom
Matthew 9:35-38 delves into the historical and cultural context of first-century Palestine, emphasizing the inseparable link between faith and action. It unveils theological themes about divine compassion and underscores the significance of ethical principles in shaping a comprehensive worldview. The passage invites personal reflection on embodying compassion, justice, and humility in daily life.
As the Day Ends
Evening Meditation: As the day draws to a close and the world grows still around you, take a moment to reflect on the timeless wisdom encapsulated within Mark 6:1-6. In this passage, we encounter Jesus returning to His hometown, only to be met with skepticism and disbelief from those who knew Him best. Consider theContinue reading “As the Day Ends”
I Can’t Bear It
Men of great physical strength have sometimes carried outrageously heavy burdens—six hundred pounds, seven hundred pounds, eight hundred. And even then they have said, “I still have not been fully tested. Put on some more weight! Load me up!” With confidence they have gripped the bar and with great straining and groaning they have liftedContinue reading “I Can’t Bear It”
Intentional Faith 