The eternal God, coming into time and space, is born in humility, in obscurity, and in rejection. Every detail of Christ's birth was planned by God, including the timing of Caesar's decree, the location in Bethlehem, and the journey of Mary and Joseph. The birth of Jesus is a sovereign act of God, a perfect plan of redemption, and a demonstration of God's love and grace. [... more]

When Jesus said, I am, he was claiming to be the eternal one, the God of redemption, who came to redeem his people from their sins. He demonstrated his power over sin, spirits, Satan, and death, and his sovereignty over salvation. The Jews should have recognized and worshiped him as the I am, but they failed to do so, and as a result, they were destroyed. This Christmas, it's essential to remember who Jesus is and respond with worship, rather than casting stones at him or calling him a blasphemer. [... more]

The birth of Jesus Christ is a time of great need, as humanity is in a desperate condition due to sin. God's gift of salvation through Jesus Christ is the only solution, and it requires the shedding of blood to remit sin. The Bible teaches that God is holy and hates sin, and He will punish sin. However, through Jesus Christ, we can be clothed in His righteousness and have our sins put away, and we can rejoice in the knowledge that redemption is by His precious blood. [... more]

The message of Christmas is the message of Christ in and of himself, Jesus only, is the Savior for all seasons and for all people. He is a sovereign Savior, a solitary Savior, and a superior Savior, worthy of worship and praise. [... more]

The Christian life is often burdened by the weight of trying to be enough, but God's gift of Jesus Christ brings comfort and hope to those who feel unworthy. The concept of grace is often misunderstood, but it is a gift that is given to those who are not worthy, and it is the foundation of the Christian life. [... more]

Chip Ingram teaches on how to equip the next generation to respond to suffering with faith, encouraging parents and grandparents to model healthy responses to pain and hardship, and to pass on their spiritual legacy to their children and grandchildren. [... more]

Solomon's message in Ecclesiastes 9 emphasizes the importance of living fully and faithfully, without fear of the grave, and enjoying the simple things in life, such as relationships and everyday tasks, as a reminder of God's approval and authority. [... more]

A Christmas song, Oh Come, All You Unfaithful, brings hope to those struggling with grief, sin, and shame, reminding them that Jesus came to save the weak, the broken, and the guilty, and that His love and redemption are available to all, regardless of their circumstances. [... more]

Chip Ingram teaches how to prepare children and grandchildren for suffering by instilling faith and values, and providing a biblical framework for meaningful conversations about doubt and faith. [... more]

The story of Joshua's conquest of Ai is a testament to God's promise of victory and the importance of following His plan. Despite previous failures, Joshua and his people were encouraged by God's repeated message of not to fear, but to trust in Him. They learned to obey God's instructions, even when it seemed risky, and were rewarded with a great victory. This lesson is relevant today, as we are reminded that God's promises are reliable, but we must still follow His plan to achieve success. [... more]

The Bible encourages believers to be actively involved in prayer, as it is a vital part of the Christian life. Prayer is not about changing God's mind, but rather about trusting in His sovereignty and providence. The prayer of faith can have a significant impact on the world, and fervent, effectual prayer can bring about much. However, prayer does not guarantee a specific outcome, and God's will may not always align with our own. Nevertheless, prayer is a privilege and a mandate for believers, and it is essential for courage, hope, and a deeper relationship with God. [... more]

Contemplating the brevity of life and the inevitability of death invites us to become people of depth, and to live wisely in an unpredictable world. Solomon's wise counsel from Ecclesiastes 7 offers four surprising principles for living, including contemplating our casket, choosing companions carefully, cultivating character wisely, and considering our Creator with humility. [... more]

God calls the children of Israel to look backward and see his faithful provision and protection, reminding them that they have not reached this place in their own strength but because of his loving purpose. As they stand on the cusp of a new life in the promised land, Moses ratifies the covenant and warns them of the consequences of turning away from the Lord, emphasizing the choice of life or death that lies before them. [... more]

The human heart tends to forget God when feeling sufficiently supplied, leading to complacent cravings and a self-focused life, whereas grateful contentment leads to an outward focus and worshiping the infinite sovereign creator. [... more]

The story of the Philistine nation's encounter with the Ark of the Covenant serves as a backdrop to explore the concept of God's sovereignty and providence. The Philistines' attempt to understand the cause of their calamities leads them to question whether God is in control, ultimately revealing their own atheistic worldview. This narrative highlights the distinction between theism and atheism, emphasizing that if God is not sovereign, He is not God. [... more]

Cultivating a thankful attitude is foundational to spiritual health, and it's a constant attitude that should be practiced in every situation. According to 1 Thessalonians 5:18, we should give thanks in everything, as it's God's will for us in Christ Jesus. This attitude is hindered by doubt, selfishness, worldliness, critical spirit, impatience, and rebellion, but it's encouraged by trust in God, a servant attitude, and a focus on Jesus Christ. [... more]

The attributes of God, including His sovereignty, wisdom, truth, and justice, are on full display in the world, even in the midst of evil and suffering. Understanding these attributes is essential for the Christian faith, and recognizing God's glory in all things is a key aspect of this understanding. [... more]

The concept of God's providence is central to Christian theology, emphasizing God's role as the primary cause of the universe, sustaining all things, and governing creation with absolute authority. This sovereignty is not limited by human consent or external restraints, but is instead an intrinsic right to rule, demonstrated through God's creation and ongoing involvement in the world. [... more]

The concept of Providence refers to God's seeing everything that takes place in the universe, and his authority to change what he sees. It's a doctrine that deals with the difficult questions of how God's causal power and authority interact with human free choices, and how God's government relates to the problem of evil and suffering in the world. [... more]

The importance of being thankful is a significant major Bible teaching, as seen throughout the Old and New Testaments. It means not to complain, acknowledging that we are not worthy of God's blessings, and being grateful for the many benefits we receive from his gracious hand. [... more]

Giving thanks to the Lord is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, and it's not just limited to special occasions like Thanksgiving. Pastor Greg Laurie emphasizes the importance of having an attitude of gratitude, recognizing God's sovereignty, and praising Him in all circumstances, even in times of suffering. He shares powerful stories of Paul and Silas, who gave thanks to God while in prison, and how their worship and praise led to the salvation of a Roman jailer and his family. [... more]

Understanding the difference between cyclical and secular trends in the market can help investors make wiser long-term decisions with their portfolios. Mark Biller explains how these trends impact the bond market and why it's essential to diversify beyond a simple stock-bond portfolio. He discusses how to build a resilient portfolio that can withstand both short-term and long-term market cycles, and how to navigate the challenges of a potential secular bear market in bonds. [... more]

God's laws in Deuteronomy were given to promote human flourishing by removing cruelty and repression, demonstrating his graciousness and generosity. As Christians, we are part of God's family, loved and called to love him, and walking with him in a life of worship brings delight to the Father. [... more]

God's laws in Deuteronomy 25 were given to Israel to promote human flourishing by removing the obstructions of cruelty and repression. When we become aware of God's work for human flourishing, our hearts will be drawn to praise. We are called to worship in a way that remembers God's faithfulness, redemption, and goodness, and to invoke the terms of the covenant by obeying God's voice with all our heart and soul. [... more]

God's laws in Deuteronomy 25 were given to Israel to promote human flourishing by removing the obstructions of cruelty and repression. The people of Israel are called to worship in a way that causes them to remember God's promise, providence, and purposes, demonstrating God's graciousness and generosity for human liberty and flourishing. [... more]

God's laws in Deuteronomy 25 and 26 were given to Israel to promote human flourishing by removing the obstructions of cruelty and repression. The laws are for our good, as God loves us and wants us to thrive. [... more]

Past guilt, present grace, and future glory are the three main themes of this message. We were once foolish, disobedient, and deceived, but God's kindness and love appeared, saving us by His mercy. Through faith, we are washed in the blood of Jesus Christ, and we become new creations, heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ, inheriting all things in the Lord Jesus Christ. [... more]

The primacy of worship is a central theme in Christianity, emphasizing the importance of glorifying God above all else. This concept is rooted in the Bible, where it is clear that worship is not just a means to an end, but the very purpose for which we were created. The regulative principle of worship, which holds that only what is prescribed in Scripture is acceptable, is a key aspect of this understanding. In today's discussion, Scott Anniel of G3 Ministries explores the importance of worship in the life of the believer, including the role of gratitude, reverence, and faith in drawing near to God. The conversation also touches on the relationship between worship and politics, highlighting the need for Christians to prioritize the gospel and the glory of God in all aspects of life. [... more]

God's laws as outlined in Deuteronomy reflect His holy character and sovereign purpose, emphasizing the importance of Israel's existence and the coming of Messiah, who would bring redemption for humanity through reconciliation with God. [... more]

Dr. Abadan Shah discusses the importance of understanding Paul's desire for Israel's salvation in Romans 10:1, and how this relates to the broader themes of salvation and biblical exegesis. He also explores the Pharisees' tendency to create loopholes and exploit the law, and how Jesus' teachings on grace and forgiveness are essential for living a Christian life. [... more]

The Bible tells the story of Gideon, a fearful man who was chosen by God to lead the Israelites into battle against the Midianites. Despite his doubts and fears, Gideon learns to trust in God's power and presence, and ultimately leads the Israelites to victory. This story serves as a reminder that God is always with us, and that we should not be afraid to trust in Him, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. [... more]

Paul's message to the Athenians emphasizes God's role as the creator of humanity, refuting the idea of evolution and highlighting the significance of Adam and Eve as the first humans. He also stresses God's control over history and the importance of seeking Him, as He desires fellowship with humanity. [... more]

The Bible reveals a coming judgment where God will declare the eternal verdict of unbelievers, revealing their rebellion against Him and the consequences of their idolatry. This judgment is for unbelievers only, and it is a place of eternal torment, where God's wrath will be poured out. The church should be clear about this truth, warning people of the coming judgment and the importance of repentance. Paul's message to the Athenians emphasizes the reality and terror of God's wrath, and the need for people to understand the stakes of eternal life or death. [... more]

The biblical doctrine of predestination has puzzled Christians for generations, balancing God's sovereignty with personal responsibility. Paul's teaching in Romans 9 reveals life-changing truth that brings comfort in trials and motivation for godly living, emphasizing God's perfect character, specific responsibility, and consistent plan. [... more]

Chuck Swindahl breaks down the doctrine of predestination in Romans chapter 9, exploring God's sovereign choice, the perfect character of God, and the implications for salvation and election, highlighting the importance of understanding God's plan and character in the Christian faith. [... more]

The gospel collides with culture, challenging traditional power structures and forcing individuals to confront their own understanding of God. In Acts 17, Paul's preaching in Thessalonica sparks a riot, but also brings about a community of believers committed to the rule of Jesus Christ. This encounter between the gospel and culture raises questions about the nature of God and the implications of His sovereignty. [... more]

The book of Joshua continues with a message on the defeat at Ai, where the children of Israel committed a trespass by taking spoil from the city, leading to God's anger and a changing scene in their journey. The importance of faith and obedience is highlighted, and the need for the church to judge and discipline its members is discussed. [... more]

Solomon reflects on his life's journey, realizing that he had been pursuing the wrong goals and that true wisdom comes from understanding God's authority over all of history, the present, and the future. He draws parallels between climbing a mountain and living life, emphasizing the importance of surrendering to God's sovereignty and seeking His wisdom for a fulfilling life. [... more]

God shapes us for His eternal purposes, and He begins right here. He doesn't give up, and He doesn't throw away what is spoiled. God knows we need more images like His Son on this planet, and He needs us to speak for Him, to represent Him, and to stand for Him. He has a plan to make us like Jesus, but it has to start with where Jesus died for us, at the cross. God causes all circumstances to work together for our ultimate good, and rather than trying to fix everything ourselves, we can rest in the absolute knowledge that our Heavenly Father is actively shaping us for His eternal purposes. [... more]

God's plan of salvation does not hinge on any particular group, but rather on his mercy and choice of individuals, such as Abraham, a Babylonian man surrounded by other gods and goddesses. Understanding this concept requires stepping into the biblical story without preconceived notions and examining it in its historical context, recognizing that God's promises to Israel are very alive and active today. [... more]