Counting trials as joy is a biblical command that allows God's people to experience the sweet fruit of maturity. Through perseverance, we can develop patience and trust in God, leading to a deeper understanding of His ways and a stronger faith. This process is not automatic, but rather requires time and effort, as seen in the story of the Scottish discus player who trained under a great burden to achieve great things. By shaking off the dirt and stepping up, we can find joy in the midst of trials and trust God to help us through the difficult times. [... more]

Jesus teaches that he is the fulfillment of Abraham's hopes and visions, and that he is the eternal Christ who shares the everlasting life of the Father and the Spirit. He claims to be the same yesterday, today, and forever, and that he is the changeless Lord who towers over history. [... more]

Jesus knows we will fail, but he prays for our faith not to fail. He reassures us that when we mess up, he is not surprised and that there is always forgiveness available. Through the story of Peter's failure and restoration, we learn about the importance of Jesus' private meetings with us, personal mercy, and powerful grace, ultimately leading to the fellowship of restoration. [... more]

We must be born again to see the kingdom of God, and only God can overcome unbelief. The problem is not a lack of information, but a lack of transformation. We are spiritually blind and need to be regenerated to understand and believe the simple message about Jesus Christ. [... more]

The Reformation's third pillar, Sola Gratia, emphasizes that salvation is by grace alone, not through human cooperation or works. This concept is rooted in the Bible's teaching that God's grace is a person, Jesus Christ, who redeems us from our sins. The Reformers rejected the medieval view of salvation as a combination of God's grace and human effort, instead affirming that God's demerited favor is the sole cause of our salvation. This understanding of grace is seen in the lives of biblical figures such as Abraham and Adam, who received God's unilateral covenant promise despite their sinfulness. Ultimately, the purpose of God's grace is to bring glory to Himself, as He saves sinners through Jesus Christ and attributes all glory to Him alone. [... more]

Jesus' claims about his identity and his relationship with God are met with skepticism and accusations from the Jews, who struggle to understand his declaration of being the light of the world and the truth. Jesus responds calmly and boldly, explaining that he is not seeking his own glory, but rather the glory of his Father, who honors him. The Jews continue to question Jesus' identity, but he remains steadfast in his claims, emphasizing the importance of faith and the consequences of unbelief. [... more]

The Bible talks about heart, it's not talking about the organ that the cardiologist looks at when something doesn't seem in rhythm. It's talking about your mind, your intellectual center, your emotions, your emotional center, your will, your volitional center. It's talking about where your morality takes place, where your mind thinks, where you feel. It's talking about the place where God works. That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth and believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, keep thy heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life. [... more]

Death is not terminal, and the soul continues to exist after the body dies. The Bible teaches that there are two ways to die: in one's sins or in the Lord. Christians believe that their souls will be reunited with their bodies in the resurrection, while the souls of the wicked will be cast into hell. The unknownness of death is a challenge, but relying solely on God's word provides security and hope for eternal life. [... more]

Jacob's wrestling match with God in Genesis 32 is a powerful reminder of the importance of facing our fears and conflicts head-on, and of surrendering to God's will. As Jacob refuses to let God go, he is transformed and receives a new name, Israel, symbolizing his newfound faith and spirituality. This story serves as a call to revival, encouraging believers to seek a deeper, more intimate relationship with God, and to let go of their own desires and wills in order to receive God's blessing and guidance. [... more]

The Bible teaches that death is not terminal, but rather a transition to eternity. Jesus' death and resurrection offer salvation from sin and eternal life, but unbelief in Christ leads to death in one's sins. The consequences of unbelief are eternal, and the Bible warns of the importance of faith in Christ for eternal life. [... more]

The book of James emphasizes the importance of Christianity impacting one's conversation, compassion, and character. James warns that external religious activity is worthless if it does not lead to spiritual maturity, and that true Christianity involves demonstrating parental care and compassion, particularly towards orphans and widows. [... more]

The Bible's underlying message is the good news that God justifies the ungodly by grace through faith alone, a message that has been consistent from the beginning of the story of redemption, starting with Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:15, and unfolding through the promises made to Abraham, with Jesus being the fulfillment of all God's promises. [... more]

God's judgment is according to truth, and those who practice evil will be condemned. Hypocrisy is a threat to anyone who dares to stand in a pulpit and correct sinners when every preacher is himself a sinner. The goodness of God leads to repentance, but those who despise his goodness will be judged according to their deeds. Every single sin we ever commit is exposed to God's perfect judgment, and we will be judged according to our works, both good and bad. [... more]

Paul's exhortation to the Thessalonians emphasizes the importance of living a holy life, avoiding sexual immorality, and being sanctified to please God. He warns that immorality cheats brothers and sisters, God will avenge immorality, and it's a direct offense against God. The model church walks with God by being sanctified, growing towards God, and away from sin, ultimately embracing a holy life to be like Jesus Christ. [... more]

A demon-possessed man's dramatic transformation by Jesus Christ serves as an illustration of the human condition, where people are ruled by dark and sinister forces outside of Christ, and the only way to be set free is through the pain of transformation by Christ's power and grace. [... more]

The problem of worry is not the issue, but rather our perspective on it. God's provision is not just for the lesser things, but also for the greater. He knows what we need before we ask and distinguishes between needs and wants, promising to meet our essential needs. [... more]

The Christian life is about more than fulfilling dreams, and pride can lead to ingratitude and independence from God. Humility is the recognition that any good thing in life is the result of what God and/or others have done for us. Moses demonstrated humility by sharing the burden of leadership and praying for those who hurt him. [... more]

Jesus' bold proclamation that those who keep his word will never see death is a message of hope for believers, but it's met with skepticism and even hostility from those who don't understand the nature of death and the promise of eternal life. Alastair Begg explores the biblical understanding of death and its connection to sin, and how Jesus' words offer a way out of spiritual death and into eternal life. [... more]

Parents can create lasting memories with their kids without breaking the bank by exploring free summer activities, such as visiting the library, hosting a backyard camp out, and organizing a neighborhood game day. Meanwhile, individuals approaching retirement age can navigate complex financial decisions, including Medicare and Social Security, to ensure a secure financial future. Additionally, property owners can consider forming an LLC to protect their assets and simplify tax obligations, while also exploring ways to avoid probate when passing on their estate. [... more]

David, the king, faces criticism from those closest to him, including his own son Absalom, and writes Psalm 62 to guide believers on how to handle criticism, relying on God's position, protection, and persuasion, and finding refuge in His sovereignty, power, and shelter. [... more]

The Bible teaches that sin and self-centeredness lead to bondage and enslavement, but Jesus Christ offers true freedom through salvation. This freedom is not about doing what we please, but about doing what pleases God, and it is only possible through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. [... more]

The Bible is a source of transformation, not just information, and approaching it with an open heart, a closed mouth, and a teachable spirit is essential for spiritual maturity. James 1 emphasizes the importance of being quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, and to deal with sin and wickedness in humility, receiving the word implanted in us to save our souls. [... more]

David's prayer in Psalm 61 offers guidance on how to navigate life's chaos and find God's presence, protection, and provision when feeling overwhelmed. [... more]

John's letter to his children emphasizes the importance of confidence in their relationship with God, which is rooted in their love for one another and generosity towards those in need. He explains that our hearts can condemn us for our failure to love, but we must persuade our hearts with the comforting truth that God is greater than our hearts and knows all things. This persuasion leads to confidence in prayer and generosity towards others. [... more]

Jesus teaches that true discipleship involves abiding in His Word, holding to His teachings, and embracing His truth. He distinguishes between fickle followers who are easily swayed and those who are rooted in their faith. Jesus also confronts the Jews, who are proud of their pedigree, but blind to their need for spiritual freedom and their true father, Satan. [... more]

God desires for you to have love in you, which is a selfless outpouring and not expecting anything in return. Love is associated with giving, and it's a powerful thing that can do amazing things. When you think about love, it's essential to have a good biblical definition of it and to recognize that it's not always easy, but it's worth it. God wants to use your life to pour out love to others, and it's a beautiful thing to experience the fellowship of the suffering of Christ. In relationships, it's crucial to let love conquer and to keep on pouring out, even when it hurts. [... more]

Christian fathers are warned not to provoke their children to anger, lest they become discouraged. This is a crucial aspect of Christian parenting, as it involves understanding the special responsibility that falls to men in the Bible, both in the home and in the church. The love and grace displayed by our Heavenly Father should be the hallmark of the treatment of our children, and we should avoid provoking them through over-severity, inconsistency, constant fault-finding, favoritism, belittling their achievements, failing to show appreciation, neglect, expecting too much of them, restricting their freedom, and over-protection. [... more]

Jacob's life is forever transformed after a face-to-face encounter with God at a place called Peniel. He had been a trickster, selling his birthright and stealing his brother's blessing, but God's intervention changes him. Jacob's story serves as a reminder that we need a supernatural breakthrough and divine intervention in our lives, and that we must be willing to let go of our pride and submit to God's will. [... more]

Children are a gift, but they are also corrupt and in need of guidance. The Bible teaches that parents are responsible for training their children in the truth of Scripture, and that this training begins at home. Godly discipline is a key part of this process, and is motivated by love. The Bible is clear that children should obey their parents, and that this obedience is essential for their spiritual growth and development. [... more]

Generosity is a fundamental aspect of Christianity, as demonstrated by the example of Christ who laid down his life for others. The Holy Spirit guides believers to give generously to those in need, prioritizing support for the church and fellow believers, while also encouraging universal giving to all people. This generosity is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, effecting change in the hearts of believers and creating a similar generosity in their lives. [... more]

The gospel must begin with bad news, specifically the declaration of independence from God, which leads to judicial abandonment and the manifestation of sinful passions in concrete human behavior, resulting in a debased mind and a life filled with unrighteousness. [... more]

Paul's prayer for the Thessalonians to increase in love and be blameless and holy in the presence of God, as he reflects on the story of Hosea and Gomer, illustrating the self-sacrificial love of God and the importance of agape love in relationships and in the church. [... more]

David's prayer in Psalm 139 reveals a deep understanding of God's holiness and his own sinful nature. He longs for divine vengeance against those who oppose God, but also submits himself to scrutiny, acknowledging the seeds of evil within his own heart. This prayer challenges believers to confront their own moral compromise and to seek a deeper understanding of God's judgment and mercy. [... more]

A young man named Stephen, full of God's grace and power, is persecuted for his faith and ultimately becomes a martyr. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of character, courage, and standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. [... more]

The biblical account of creation is explored, comparing it to the evolutionary model and scientific evidence. The speaker argues that the Bible's explanation makes more sense and is supported by various scientific discoveries, including the precision of the universe and the age of the Earth. The discussion highlights the importance of considering the biblical account of creation and its implications for one's life and faith. [... more]

The Bible teaches that parental authority is vital for a stable society, and that children should obey their parents in everything, as this pleases the Lord. The Christian home is built on the foundation of Jesus Christ, and parents are responsible for instructing their children in the Word of God, despite the challenges of a world that often disagrees with biblical values. [... more]

A woman at Jacob's Well encounters Jesus, who offers her living water and explains that it's a gift from God, symbolizing salvation and eternal life. Jesus exposes her sin and guides her towards a profound revelation, redefining worship and pointing her towards the truth of salvation. [... more]

The Bible teaches that husbands are to love their wives sacrificially and exclusively, just as Jesus loves the church. This love is not just a feeling, but a choice to put one's wife's interests ahead of one's own and to prioritize her well-being. In contrast, a harsh tone and selfishness can lead to a breakdown in the marriage bond. By following the biblical framework for marriage, husbands can cultivate a deeper understanding and trust with their wives, leading to a more fulfilling and joyful relationship. [... more]

Biblical love is a selfless outpouring, not expecting anything in return. It's a powerful thing that can bring amazing results when unleashed properly. When considering relationships with God or others, it's essential to have a good definition of love in mind, and to remember that God desires for us to have this thing called love in us. He wants us to have a love kind of relationship with Him and with others, and to let Him love through us, pouring out our hearts and lives for the benefit of others. [... more]

The book of 1 John is not a series of tests for assurance of salvation, but rather a letter to assure believers of their faith in Jesus Christ. John contrasts the children of God with the children of the devil, highlighting the love and generosity of those who trust in Jesus, and the meanness and tight-fistedness of those who reject Him. [... more]