As Christians, we must not be surprised by the fiery trials that test us, but instead, rejoice in the midst of persecution, knowing that we are loved by God and defined by His affection for us. We are the elect, the beloved, and our identity is rooted in Christ, who is our head and we are His members. [... more]

As believers, we are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, and a holy nation, set apart unto God. We are not defined by our circumstances, but by our identity in Christ. Remembering who we are and whose we are can give us confidence, peace, and joy in the midst of challenges and difficulties. [... more]

A person of the word is born again through the proclamation of God's word, which is imperishable seed that finds root in the heart and grows into a beautiful life. The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, and it's the only thing that can satisfy the deepest longings of the human spirit. [... more]

The imperishable seed of the word of God has life-generating power, and it's the primary thing that gives us life and nourishment. We are people of the word, and it's the story of God's redemptive love for us in Jesus Christ. The word is not just mere instruction, but an expression of God that's alive, and it's the one thing we can open our spirit wide to without fear of junk food or poison. [... more]

As Christians, we are not ordinary citizens, but rather superheroes with a deeper purpose. We are the elect exiles, chosen by God's sovereign grace to be a light unto the world. In this message, Pastor Alan Wright explores the concept of being the elect, highlighting the power of God's call and the mystery of our salvation. We are born in sin, but through God's perfect deep grace, we are born again to a living hope, destined for glorious eternal reign with the Son of God. [... more]

Christians have always struggled with the issue of whether to obey the state or God. Pastor Lutzer explains that God's purposes determine the fact that He does not always exercise His power, and that persecution should be expected. He shares three lessons on how to navigate persecution, including accepting it, not being ashamed of Jesus, and finding freedom in the fire that purifies us. [... more]

Matt Slick discusses various Christian apologetics topics, including free will and predestination, alien theology, and the end times. He also addresses questions on prophecy, election, salvation, repentance, and the nature of heaven and hell. [... more]

The Bible teaches that in marriage, husbands should use their power to bless and serve their wives, not manipulate or control them. Wives should submit to their husbands in a Christ-like way, with a gentle and quiet spirit, and trust God with the results. This approach is more powerful than retribution and can lead to healing and transformation in relationships. [... more]

When faced with unjust rulers or suffering, Christians should respond with patient and faithful endurance, trusting in God's plan for salvation and redemption. Peter teaches that submission to authority is not about condoning or supporting evil, but about honoring God and seeking justice, even in the face of adversity. [... more]

David Kinnaman and Mark Matlock discuss the findings of their research on resilient Christians, particularly those aged 18-29, who make up only 10% of this demographic. They explore the five attributes of resilient Christians, including intimacy with Jesus, cultural discernment, meaningful intergenerational relationships, vocational discipleship, and countercultural mission. The authors emphasize the importance of helping young people develop a resilient faith in a world that often seeks to undermine it. [... more]

Raising young people in a digital age can be challenging, but experts David Kinman and Mark Matlock offer practical insights and tools to help parents navigate this complex landscape. Their book, Faith for Exiles, explores the concept of Digital Babylon, where screens and technology can influence our lives in profound ways. By understanding the spiritual journeys of young people, parents can develop resilience and help their children grow in their faith, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties. [... more]

Raising kids who walk faithfully with Christ requires more than a formula or recipe. Parents need to understand that faith isn't a formula, but rather being led by the Holy Spirit. This involves creating an environment where kids can experience Jesus, form meaningful relationships, and develop cultural discernment, vocational discipleship, and countercultural mission. [... more]

Researchers David Kinnaman and Mark Matlock discuss the decline of Christianity among young adults, identifying four groups: prodigals, nomads, habituals, and resilient disciples. They explore the characteristics of each group, including their spiritual practices and beliefs, and offer insights on how parents can help their children develop a resilient faith in the digital age. [... more]

As parents, we're facing a new landscape in which to pass on our faith to our children, one that's vastly different from the past. With the digital revolution, our kids are being discipled by screens, and it's up to us to understand this new context and find ways to help them live faithfully for God. [... more]

In a study of 1 Peter 3, Pastor JD explores the principles of Christian marriage, including submission, leadership, and Christ-like behavior. He discusses the importance of using power to bless and serve, rather than manipulate or control, and how to honor one's spouse in a way that is pleasing to God. The pastor also touches on the topic of retribution in marriage, emphasizing that grace is a more powerful change agent than retribution. [... more]

Peter teaches that as Christians, we are called to patient and faithful endurance in the face of unjust suffering, and to submit to every human authority with respect and honor, while also speaking out against evil and injustice. [... more]