The concept of the firstborn of every creature in Colossians one fifteen is often misunderstood as implying Jesus Christ was not eternal, but rather the first being created. However, a closer examination of the verse and surrounding text reveals that Jesus is the image of the invisible God, the creator of all things, and the eternal living Word. [... more]

Jesus meets Moses, the law, and Simeon, a righteous and devout man who has been waiting for the Messiah. Mary and Joseph follow the law by circumcising Jesus and presenting him to the Lord, and they offer sacrifices for purification. Simeon recognizes Jesus as the Messiah and blesses God, while Anna, a prophetess, also recognizes Jesus as the Messiah and speaks of Him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. [... more]

The Christmas story is a powerful reminder of God's love and sacrifice, as Jesus, born in a manger, came to redeem us from sin and offer us a relationship with God. Mary and Joseph, despite facing ridicule and hardship, trusted in God's plan and played a crucial role in Jesus' birth. As we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, we are reminded that Jesus came to give us life, not just after death, but also during life, and that we can have a personal relationship with Him through faith and forgiveness. [... more]

God's laws in Deuteronomy 21-22 point toward the gospel, foreshadowing Jesus' sacrifice and redemption. Pastor Rich Powell explores eight ways these laws pave the way for Jesus, highlighting the privileges of the firstborn, the rebellious son, and the community of mutual trust and care in the church. [... more]

Pastor Rich Powell unpacks the laws in Deuteronomy 21-22, highlighting the underlying principles of atonement for guilt, protection of females, and the privilege of the firstborn. He also explores the importance of guarding against rebellion and the consequences of capital punishment, revealing how these laws point to the gospel and foreshadow the cross. [... more]

The church is the assembly of the Redeemer, commissioned to do the work of the ministry, operating under delegated leaders, with the ultimate goal of presenting a glorious church to God. [... more]

God sees us for what we can become, not just for what we are. He wants us to submit to His purpose and plan for our lives. The story of Jacob wrestling with God teaches us about the importance of patience and trust in God's timing and will. We must learn to wait on the Lord and trust Him to accomplish His plans, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable. [... more]

The Passover lamb is a powerful symbol of God's redemption and salvation, representing Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. The story of the firstborn son and the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt is a cosmic truth about the universal enslavement to sin and the need for a payment to be made on behalf of humanity. The Feast of Unleavened Bread holds an eternal significance that is tied to the Passover lamb, representing a larger truth about the death and resurrection of Jesus. [... more]

The Holy Land's ownership is rooted in God's promise to Abraham and his descendants, as stated in the Bible. The biblical mandate for Israel to occupy the land is a central theme, with some nations trying to expunge the Jewish presence. The concept of firstborn and preeminence is explored through the story of Jacob and his sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, and its application to Jesus Christ as the firstborn over all creation. [... more]

The concept of Irresistible Grace is explored, explaining how God's effectual call brings salvation to those predestined, resulting in a heavenly calling and a new creation in Christ Jesus, characterized by a deep sense of sin, true repentance, faith in Jesus Christ, and complete surrender. [... more]

The TULIP doctrine emphasizes salvation as a work of God's sovereign grace, where man's fallen nature cannot contribute to his salvation. The effectual call of God is an inward call that brings justification, and it is not frustrated by man's obstinate will. This call is made to those who are predestinated, and it brings them to a holy calling, where they are drawn to God by his power and made willing to respond. [... more]

Jesus' anger in the temple was a righteous indignation against the false teachings and commercialization of worship, demonstrating his propitiatory sacrifice and the importance of understanding biblical theology, particularly in relation to the certificate of debt and sin debt. [... more]

Our past sins often weigh heavily on us making us doubt if we can ever get a fresh start God required the Israelites to sacrifice a lamb in place of their firstborn for their deliverance In this message Pastor Lutzer reveals two transformative lessons from this powerful symbol of Jesus' sacrificial blood Will we embrace His sacrifice made on our behalf This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount Get yours at https rtwoffer com or call us at - - - [... more]

The story of Jesus' coming is full of curious surprises, from the appearance of angels to the visitation of shepherds. In this Advent series, Pastor Philip Miller explores the greatness of Christmas, revealing how Jesus came to redeem God's firstborn son, Israel, and bring light to the Gentiles. Through the stories of Simeon and Anna, we see the portrayal, prospect, and prophecy of redemption, ultimately leading to the sacrifice of Jesus, the suffering servant, who gives his life to redeem many sons for glory. [... more]

The concept of the incarnation is explored as Pastor J.D. Greer delves into the meaning of God becoming flesh and its significance for us. He discusses the importance of intimacy with God, Jesus as the image of God, and the firstborn of creation, highlighting the implications of these truths for our lives and relationships. [... more]

The story of Cain and Abel reveals the importance of faith in giving, as God favors Abel's offering due to his trust and submission to God's authority. This biblical wisdom is applied to modern-day financial decisions, emphasizing the need for faith and generosity in one's financial journey. [... more]

Mary's unwavering commitment to her son Jesus, despite the challenges and controversies surrounding his ministry, serves as a powerful example of the importance of motherhood and the divine calling that comes with it. As a single mother, Mary's experiences and faith provide valuable lessons for mothers and parents everywhere, highlighting the rewards and challenges of parenting and the need for God's guidance and redemption. [... more]

Sharon Epps joins Rob West to discuss the importance of giving in one's financial decisions, explaining the concept of the 'live, give, owe, and grow' pie and how God's order for money decisions is to give first, grow, owe, and then live. They also explore the purpose of the tithe and how it can help individuals discipline themselves to put God first and give him their best. [... more]

Jesus Christ is supreme, the revealer of the Father and the creator of the world. He is the firstborn over all creation, the exact representation of God in human flesh, and the originator of all creation. Paul writes in Colossians 1 to counteract the Gnostic heresy that denied the deity and humanity of Jesus Christ. [... more]

The significance of the firstborn and unleavened bread in the Passover is explored, revealing a deeper truth about leaving behind the influences of Egypt and remembering God's deliverance. The concept of redemption and covenant is also discussed, highlighting the mutual relationship between God and His people. [... more]