According to the first chapter of Proverbs, the book provides instruction (verses 2, 3), knowledge (verse 4), understanding (verse 5), prudence and discretion (verse 4). Indeed, the Proverbs are part of the Old Testament, and we know that the Law of Moses was nailed to the cross, abolished at the death of Christ (Colossians 2:14). … [Read more…]
The New Testament is filled with instructions to the Christian to watch, to be attentive, to beware. Paul admonished the Corinthians to “watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong” (I Cor. 16:13). Spiritual alertness must characterize the Christian. But watchfulness is not always easy or popular. Watchfulness is required to avoid being … [Read more…]
In the fourth year of King Jehoiakim’s reign in Judah, the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah the prophet with hope that Judah “may return every man from his evil way” (Jeremiah 36:3). Baruch recorded on a scroll the words of God, and they were read in the temple and among the princes. The … [Read more…]
“To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, ‘These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands: I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who … [Read more…]
“Then the Lord said: ‘I have pardoned, according to your word; but truly, as I live, all the earth shall be filled with the glory of the Lord— because all these men who have seen My glory and the signs which I did in Egypt and in the wilderness, and have put Me to the … [Read more…]
Genesis 19 records the story of God’s judgment upon Sodom and Gomorrah. Although completely destroyed, Sodom and Gomorrah continue to be mentioned in both the Old Testament and the New Testament. The occasion of their destruction is significant. Let us consider some of the lessons we learn from their destruction. Homosexuality is sin The destruction … [Read more…]
The concept of a corporation or organization having a mission is central to its existence. In the past few decades, even greater emphasis has been placed on developing and publishing “mission statements” at various levels within corporations, even down to work teams. A mission statement tells the purpose or function for which an organization or … [Read more…]
If you had the opportunity to preach to a governor, what would you preach? Such opportunities were given to Jesus’ apostles. Jesus said to His chosen twelve, “and you will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to Gentiles” (Matthew 10:18). These things were true even for … [Read more…]
After Jeroboam had established himself as king of the northern 10 tribes, he reasoned, “Now the kingdom may return to the house of David: If these people go up to offer sacrifices in the house of the Lord at Jerusalem, then the heart of this people will turn back to their lord, Rehoboam king of … [Read more…]
James says, “Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed” (James 5:16). We have an idiom “save face” which means to cover your reputation and avoid others losing respect for you. Public confession of public sin may be avoided by some to “save face”. Saving face is … [Read more…]