4/5/2024

In recent visits we’ve seen the two Emmaus disciples, described in Luke 24, move from disillusionment and despair to discovery and inexpressible delight as Jesus, “Beginning with Moses and all [...]
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4/8/2024

As we concluded our last program I pointed out that understanding the Scriptures was foundational to the disciples experiencing all they would need to accomplish their mission.  Acts, chapter one, [...]
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4/9/2024

The last book of the Bible is best identified by the opening words, “The revelation of Jesus Christ.”  If you find the book hard to understand let me encourage you [...]
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4/10/2024

As you read through the last book of the Bible, Revelation, look for every reference to Jesus Christ.  Ask God for a deeper spiritual insight into the person of Jesus [...]
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4/11/2024

In our last visit we began looking at the various titles and descriptions given to Jesus Christ in the book of Revelation.  Let’s continue by looking at chapter 1:5-6.  It [...]
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4/12/2024

Let me read a few verses from Revelation 1:13-16: “Someone like a son of man, dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around [...]
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4/15/2024

When John saw the glorified Christ, as described in Revelation 1:13-16, it says in verse 17 he fell at his feet as though dead. That’s not surprising when you understand something [...]
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4/16/2024

In our study of the various descriptions of Jesus Christ in the book of Revelation you’ll find He is very much a part of what is going on in the [...]
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4/17/2024

The focal point of the Book of Revelation is Jesus Christ.  In our previous studies we’ve looked at the various titles and descriptions of Jesus as found in the book [...]
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4/18/2024

Today let’s look at Christ’s titles as related to the church of Philadelphia in Revelation 3:7-13.  He is the holy and true one who holds the key of David.  When [...]
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4/19/2024

We’ve been looking at how Jesus identifies Himself in the letters to the seven churches of Revelation 2 and 3.  In Chapter 3:14 He is “the Amen, the faithful and true [...]
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4/2/2024

In our study of the ways Jesus communicated we’ve already noted that He often referred to the Scriptures and quoted from them.  One of the clearest examples of this is [...]
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4/3/2024

In our last visit, reflecting on Luke 24:13-32, we found that too often what we read from the prophets or hear from God’s servants we process through the grid of [...]
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4/4/2024

In our last few visits we’ve reflected on Luke 24:13-35.  We saw the two Emmaus disciples move from disillusionment and despair to discovery and inexpressible delight.  After Jesus explained to [...]
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3/8/2024

Did you know the best answer to a question is often a question?  You see, sometimes the one asking a question doesn’t understand what he is talking about.  A question [...]
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3/11/2024

In our last visit we discovered that the best answer to a question is often another question.  Jesus used this communication skill many times.  In Mark 10 you find Jesus [...]
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3/12/2024

We concluded our last visit by saying, if you want to provide the best answer to a question it is always good to ask if God has already spoken on [...]
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3/14/2024

In an earlier visit I referred to John 8 where the religious leaders brought a woman to Jesus who was caught in adultery, asking Him if He thought she should [...]
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3/19/2024

As we continue studying the conversation skills of the Master Communicator, Jesus Christ, let’s consider another skill: partial and progressive communication.  In John 16:1-4 Jesus closes His upper room discourse: [...]
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3/20/2024

In our last visit we considered the skill of partial and progressive communication as practiced by Jesus in His relationship with the disciples.  While with them Jesus shared partial information [...]
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3/21/2024

In our last visit we noted Jesus promised the disciples that though He would not be present physically as He had been for the 3 years of His ministry, the [...]
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3/22/2024

In our last visit we saw how Jesus used “word pictures” to communicate truth.  The disciples could rest assured that they would not be left alone like orphans to fend [...]
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3/25/2024

Let me share one final example of Jesus using a “word picture” to communicate truth, this time to share the most important truth for the world to know, for you [...]
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3/27/2024

In our last visit we considered an example of Jesus sharing words of encouragement with His disciples.  His words of encouragement set the stage for some words of affirmation that [...]
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3/29/2024

As we’ve found in recent visits Jesus often spoke words of encouragement and affirmation as seen in John 21, where Jesus, on the shore of the sea of Galilee, was [...]
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4/1/2024

One thing you could always count on when Jesus communicated, what He said was always consistent with what is said in the Bible.  If He didn’t directly quote a scripture, [...]
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3/4/2024

We have been considering different ways Jesus communicated.  At times He was very direct.  At other times He was indirect.  Sometimes He combined both.  When He used parables He often [...]
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3/5/2024

In our last visit I pointed out that parables were designed to provoke questions that, when answered, opened minds to greater understanding of truth.  The truth was embodied in the [...]
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3/6/2024

In our last visit I pointed out that good communication is not always appreciated. That, however, is not an excuse for our not being careful to let our conversation always [...]
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3/7/2024

As Jesus interacted with people it’s interesting to note He often used questions.  As I thought about this I was reminded of when at the age of 12 He stayed [...]
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2/12/2024

In our last few visits we’ve looked at two examples from the Old Testament that illustrate how to live out this impact thought: God wants me to walk, work and worship [...]
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2/14/2024

We’ve been looking at individuals who lived their lives in a way that demonstrated the impact thought: God wants me to walk, work and worship with divine clarity while living in [...]
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2/15/2024

Let’s look at another example of one who lived out the impact statement we’ve focused on in recent visits: God wants me to walk, work and worship with divine clarity while [...]
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2/20/2024

In our last visit I introduced an important addition to the impact statement we’ve been studying.  As important as it is to walk, work and worship with divine clarity as [...]
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2/21/2024

In recent visits we pointed out that both Joseph and Jonathan exhibited having an intimate relationship with God.  This illustrated an important addition to the impact statement we’ve been reflecting [...]
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2/22/2024

We’ve emphasized in recent visits the importance of an intimate relationship with God if we want to walk, work and worship with divine clarity as we live in the midst [...]
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2/23/2024

As we conclude our study of the impact statement: God wants us to walk, work and worship with divine clarity through a growing relationship with Him, while we live in the midst [...]
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2/28/2024

In our last visit I introduced the subject of learning from the master Communicator, Jesus Christ, how we can more effectively communicate in our daily conversations.  I mentioned how Jesus [...]
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2/29/2024

In our last visit we discovered that Jesus often spoke directly to issues people were facing so that decisions could be made by those He addressed.  This is why people [...]
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3/1/2024

In our last visit we discovered that Jesus at times communicated in a direct/indirect way.  At other times He communicated in an indirect/direct way.  The most vivid example of this [...]
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1/31/2024

In our last visit we began to review some lessons to be learned from Gideon’s experience recorded in Judges 6-8.  Let’s consider some more lessons.  It is very clear, obedience [...]
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2/1/2024

We’ve been considering lessons to apply based on what we’ve learned from studying Gideon’s life as recorded in Judges 6-8.  When he and the Israel army vanquished the Midianites “the [...]
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2/2/2024

Another lesson to learn from the experience of Gideon found in Judges 7-8 is that success does not immunize you from criticism.  How you handle criticism can make success sweet [...]
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2/5/2024

As we come to the conclusion of our study of the life of Gideon based on Judges 6-8 it is time to make the most important point in this study: [...]
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2/6/2024

An impact thought developed in my mind during a discussion my wife and I were having over a cup of coffee one morning.  Here it is: God wants me to walk, [...]
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2/8/2024

In our last two visits I illustrated this impact thought by looking at the life of Joseph in the Old Testament: God wants me to walk, work and worship with divine [...]
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1/12/2024

As you read and reflect on Mark 6:30-56 it is clear Jesus wanted his disciples to get some rest for refreshment and refilling, spiritually and physically.   Point three in the [...]
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1/15/2024

We’ve been studying Mark 6:30-56 using the “4S” study approach: spread, sort, structure and summarize.   First, spread out before you what you find in these verses.  Then sort and structure the [...]
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1/18/2024

Have you noticed as you read the Bible, it appears God is never in a hurry?   We’ve been considering the experience of Gideon as recorded in Judges 6.  Verse 11 says, [...]
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1/19/2024

In recent visits we’ve noted the dialogue between Gideon and the angel of the Lord in Judges 6.   When Gideon finally comes to know he is dealing with God he [...]
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1/23/2024

In our study of Gideon as presented in Judges 6-8 we discovered how God chose and prepared Gideon for overcoming the Midianites and their cohort’s threat.  Now that Gideon was ready, [...]
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1/24/2024

In our last visit we saw in Judges 7-8 how God prepared Gideon to lead his elite army of 300 into battle in spite of overwhelming odds against them.   Having [...]
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1/25/2024

In our study of Judges 6-8 we’ve seen how God prepared Gideon to overthrow the Midianite army and their cohorts.   When the battle was finally over “The Israelites said to [...]
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1/26/2024

In our last visit we discovered that Gideon received about 42 pounds of gold from the bounty after defeating the Midianites.   When he got back home, he “made the gold [...]
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1/29/2024

In recent visits we’ve reflected on the events recorded in Judges 6-8 describing Gideon’s life.  To help remember what we’ve learned let’s develop an outline.  For a title I put: [...]
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1/30/2024

For a couple of weeks now we have been studying the life of Gideon as found in Judges 6-8.  Now it’s time to review some lessons learned from his experience.  [...]
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1/4/2024

What do you do when the demands of your work press you to the brink of burnout?  Most people don’t know what to do.   In Mark 6:31-32 Jesus gave His disciples [...]
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1/5/2024

In recent visits we’ve been looking at Mark 6:31-56 to discover how Jesus taught His disciples to cope when the demands of work become overwhelming.   We must take care not [...]
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1/8/2024

When work intrudes into our planned rest, we will need to trust God to meet needs beyond our resources.   Notice how this is illustrated in Mark 6:31-56.  Jesus and His disciples [...]
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1/9/2024

Even the best plans we make to get rest are frustrated at times by natural phenomena.  That’s what happened to the disciples in Mark 6:31-56.   First, we saw how the crowds [...]
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1/10/2024

As I mentioned in our last visit in studying Mark 6:30-56 I developed the following outline, based on the information I found in this portion of the Bible.   Title: Antidote [...]
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1/11/2024

Are you so busy in your life that you don’t recognize the gauge on your physical and spiritual energy tank is reading dangerously low?  That is easy to do in our [...]
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12/25/2023

The Apostle Paul summarized in Galatians 4:4-5 what we studied last week: “When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of Woman, born under the [...]
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12/26/2023

Before we move on to the second promise God made in the book of Titus, namely, our “blessed hope – the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus [...]
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12/27/2023

In recent visits I encouraged you to make sure you have received God’s gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord.  If you have taken that gift by [...]
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12/28/2023

If you’ve been listening to recent programs you might have picked up on the mention of “waiting.”  Down through the centuries recorded in the Old Testament, God’s people waited for the [...]
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12/29/2023

In our last visit we learned from Simeon and Anna in Luke 2 how we should be looking forward with expectation to the fulfillment of our blessed hope, the glorious [...]
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1/1/2024

As we begin the year let me wish you a Christ filled and God blessed New Year!  To encourage this let me reaffirm my objective in doing this program.  I feel as [...]
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1/3/2024

An impact thought I heard from Dr. Alan Redpath many years ago while I was attending Moody Church in Chicago was, “Beware of the barrenness of a busy life.”   I [...]
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12/1/2023

While reading the Sermon on the Mount I came across what I call an “insight word.”   I’d read this sermon many times.  In fact, I challenged the people in my church [...]
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12/4/2023

In our last visit I shared how a word mentioned 4 times in the middle of the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7 opened up a new perspective to [...]
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12/6/2023

In our last visit we noted while studying the beatitudes in Mathew 5 that nonbelievers often will not understand those who are blessed of God.  In fact, being blessed by God [...]
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12/7/2023

When Jesus began referring to specific laws beginning with Matthew 5:21, which all of the people were familiar with, most in His audience would say, “Well, I haven’t murdered anyone.”  Outwardly [...]
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12/8/2023

We have been considering what Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7 through the prism of the impact word, “secret.”  When Jesus began talking about giving alms [...]
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12/11/2023

When Jesus gives instructions about praying in the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew 5-7, He discusses both the content of our praying and the audience we seek to [...]
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12/12/2023

The third discipline Jesus refers to in Matthew 6 is fasting.  This too is to be done in secret.   You are not to give others around you the impression that you [...]
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12/13/2023

When people observe your life, who or what would they conclude is your master?   They might be totally deceived.  Right?  They might see a wealthy man who lives in a large home [...]
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12/14/2023

We live in a materialistic world with modern advertising encouraging us to look out for number one – me.  Too often we’re consumed with what we’re going to eat or wear.  To [...]
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11/17/2023

Looking at the many times in the book of Acts when God turned nightmares into nighttime miracles or provided guidance in the night-watch, consider some lessons we can learn.   First, [...]
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11/20/2023

The prophet Haggai was assigned by God to light a fire under the Israelites who had returned to Jerusalem from exile to rebuild the temple.  The building project got stalled so [...]
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11/24/2023

As you read your Bible have you noticed it declares over and over again, both verbally and descriptively, “God is love”?  Nowhere is this more graphically portrayed than in the prophetical [...]
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11/27/2023

In our last visit I introduced you to the message of the prophet, Hosea.  As you reflect on God’s love as seen in the experience of Hosea’s family, you’ll get a [...]
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11/28/2023

In Hosea 6 & 7 the prophet describes what often goes on in the heart of a backslider who wants to come back into fellowship with God.  Let’s do a fact-finding [...]
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11/29/2023

If you want a vivid picture of the agony of God’s love as He relates to His rebellious people, then read Hosea 11.   The focus of the agony of God’s [...]
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11/30/2023

An impact statement that every follower of God should keep in mind is found in Hosea 13:6. Listen: “When I fed them, they were satisfied; when they were satisfied, they [...]
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11/1/2023

In recent visits we’ve been developing a way to help people identify where they are in their faith journey or relationship with Jesus Christ.  I described a developing love relationship between [...]
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11/2/2023

Everyone desires a good friend.  But a good friend is hard to come by.  Jonathan, David’s friend, was the kind of friend everyone needs.   To show you what I found in the [...]
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11/6/2023

In doing a biographical study of Jonathan’s life as recorded for us in 1 Samuel 13 through 2 Samuel 1 we started by collecting as much information about him as [...]
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11/9/2023

A number of years ago I was faced with an important decision.  I thought about it and prayed about it for a long time.  I worked out some solutions, but they never [...]
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11/10/2023

In our last visit I recounted an experience I had when a decision was clarified in my mind and heart in the middle of the night.  I compared it to a [...]
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11/13/2023

In our last two visits we’ve seen God turn nightmares into night miracles that spilled over into the next day’s experience.   Another example of this is described in Acts 16.   [...]
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11/14/2023

Often we’re so preoccupied in the challenges and emotions of the moment we have a hard time maintaining objectivity.  We might under such circumstances find it hard to make decisions, let [...]
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11/15/2023

Paul was falsely accused when he went to deliver a love offering to the church in Jerusalem from churches in Turkey, Macedonia and Greece.  This resulted in a riot breaking out, [...]
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11/16/2023

One final nighttime episode in the book of Acts reminds me of what the late Dr. Edman said in a Wheaton College chapel service: “Never doubt in the night what [...]
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10/20/2023

The miracle of the healing of the man born blind recorded in the Gospel of John, chapter 9, gives us a snapshot of a day in the life of Jesus.   [...]
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10/23/2023

When the man born blind was miraculously healed it created a stir among the people.  John 9:8 says the people asked, “Isn’t this the same man who used to sit and [...]
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10/25/2023

We have been looking at the incident described in John 9 – a day in the life of Jesus.  Jesus healed a man who was born blind.  This miracle created much discussion, [...]
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10/26/2023

There are many ways the Bible describes what takes place when a person invites Jesus Christ into his life to be his Savior and Lord.   In talking with Nicodemus in [...]
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10/30/2023

In our last visit we considered the differences in a relationship from when a couple first starts meeting together until they get married.   Using this spectrum of a developing relationship [...]
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10/31/2023

In our current study we’ve considered how to help people understand where they are at regarding a relationship with Jesus Christ.  Once you and the one you’re talking with have come [...]
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10/6/2023

As we’ve considered the devastating moral regression promised in Romans 1 when men suppress the truth about God, there is a troubling phrase that I want us to look at.  It [...]
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10/9/2023

As I prepared the study of Romans 1:18-31 and reflected on Paul’s pointed words about the fate of those who suppress the truth they have about God, I was convicted on [...]
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10/10/2023

A phrase that appears throughout John’s Gospel has to do with “time.”  Jesus occasionally pointed out His time had not yet come.  Then in John 13:1 we read, “Jesus knew that the [...]
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10/11/2023

When Jesus knew that His time had come, He was ready for the moment.  He was ready intellectually, emotionally, physically and spiritually.   It says in John 13:1, “He knew that the [...]
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10/12/2023

We’ve been considering how Jesus managed His life in relation to an awareness of time.  He didn’t allow the pressures of life and circumstance to determine His schedule.  He ordered His life [...]
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10/13/2023

As I reflected on how Jesus ordered His life with a keen awareness of the right time for what He said and did, I also noted what He taught about [...]
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10/16/2023

In our recent studies we’ve considered how Jesus lived His life with a keen awareness about how to use His time wisely.  We also began to consider what He said about [...]
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10/17/2023

I recently had a heartwarming experience at a funeral I officiated at.  In my talk I recounted an incident where a young girl was reciting the 23rd Psalm.  She confidently stood before the [...]
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10/18/2023

In our last visit I shared an experience in which a little girl after her grandfather’s funeral prayed a simple prayer, asking for Jesus to be her shepherd.  I referred to [...]
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10/19/2023

In our last two visits I mentioned a little girl who asked Jesus to become her shepherd after I spoke at her grandfather’s funeral.  I’d refer to that experience as what [...]
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9/27/2023

In the New Testament you find Cultural Disorder similar to what you find in the Old Testament.  Paul expounds on this in Romans 1:18-32.    He first points out the problem of not acknowledging [...]
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9/28/2023

In our last visit we quoted from John Stott’s commentary on Romans.  He continues, “What does Paul mean by ‘nature’ in Romans 1:26-27?  Some homosexuals argue that their relationships are not ‘unnatural’, since [...]
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10/3/2023

I have reviewed in the past two weeks what the Bible says about engaging in a homosexual relationship.  In every portion that specifically addresses homosexual behavior it is clear that God [...]
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10/4/2023

I have been sharing on this program in recent days a presentation I gave on what the Bible says about homosexuality.  Now let me share four scripts I did on this [...]
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10/5/2023

When men suppress the self-evident truth about God through what God created, the consequences come in waves of devastation.     If you refuse to bow before God and worship Him, [...]
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9/7/2023

We now move to the third chapter of 2nd Peter.  To study this portion let me suggest we use what I call the chapter study.   The primary objective with any study is [...]
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9/8/2023

As we continue doing a chapter study of 2nd Peter 3, I’d like to share with you some cross references that would be good to read to broaden our understanding.  I believe [...]
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9/11/2023

In our last visit we began to outline 2nd Peter 3: Skeptics, God, His Promises, and His expectations.  Let’s amplify point one by doing some wholesome thinking on what Peter says about [...]
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9/12/2023

In our last visit we began to consider one topic in 2nd Peter 3 about which we need to do some wholesome thinking, that is, what Peter said about scoffers who [...]
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9/13/2023

In our study of 2nd Peter 3 we began to amplify the outline in recent visits.  Let’s continue.   Under point one we focused on what Peter wrote about skeptics during the last [...]
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9/14/2023

In our last visit we began to amplify what Peter says about God in 2nd Peter 3.  Let’s continue. God promised Jesus Christ would return.  The skeptics scoff and question, “Where is this [...]
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9/15/2023

In our consideration of what Peter said in 2nd Peter 3 about God we have seen that His promises are sure.  We can count on Him fulfilling His promises.  We must acknowledge however [...]
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8/25/2023

After reflecting on 2nd Peter chapter 1 for almost two months now I came up with the following outline for what we have shared thus far.  The focus I would give this [...]
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9/18/2023

In our study of 2nd Peter 3 we’ve considered what Peter said about skeptics, God, and God’s promises.  Now let’s look at what he says about the kind of people we ought [...]
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8/28/2023

With chapter 1 of 2nd Peter under our belts let’s move on to the rest of this book.  Peter wanted his readers to have a firm foundation for their faith because they [...]
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9/19/2023

In our last visit we pointed out some things Peter encourages us to be about in 2nd Peter 3.  The time of Christ’s return is approaching.  God wants us to be ready and [...]
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8/29/2023

In our last visit we began to look into chapter 2 of 2nd Peter.  We saw that there is always a danger of believers being led astray by false prophets.  This is seen [...]
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9/20/2023

If you study 2nd Peter and Jude, you’ll find both addressing issues we face in our contemporary society.  I would like to share an experience I had that illustrates this.   I was [...]
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8/30/2023

To do a more thorough study of 2nd Peter 2 let me suggest we do what I call a ‘4S’ study.  The four S’s stand for spread, sort, structure, and summarize.   This [...]
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9/21/2023

In my last visit I introduced a study I did on homosexuality in preparation for a presentation I was asked to give in a church that was considering becoming open [...]
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8/31/2023

In our last visit we began doing a “4S” study of 2nd Peter 2 by spreading and sorting into groups information found in this chapter.  After reflecting on these groups of information [...]
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9/1/2023

In our last visit we didn’t finish listing the things Peter says in 2nd Peter 2 to describe false prophets and teachers.  We listed what is said about their character and conduct.  Now [...]
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9/4/2023

We have been studying 2nd Peter 2 to discover the dangers associated with the influence of false teachers in the church.   One of the things Peter talks about in this chapter [...]
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9/5/2023

As we’ve been studying about false teachers described in 2nd Peter 2, Peter not only warns us about the devastating impact they have on those who follow them.  He interjects truth and [...]
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9/6/2023

In our last visit I shared how Peter encouraged those he was writing to scrutinize the conduct and communication of their spiritual leaders and visiting teachers who might be asked [...]
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8/16/2023

With the foundation Peter laid in the first 11 verses of 2nd Peter 1 he immediately gives his reason for saying what he said.  He writes like a parent to his children, [...]
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8/17/2023

In our last visit we pointed out how Peter amplified the focus of what he was sharing in chapter 1 of 2nd Peter: he wanted them to understand what goes into [...]
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8/18/2023

In our last visit we began to amplify Peter’s focus in the second half of 2nd Peter 1: How does a believer discover and use the key to an abundant life [...]
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7/28/2023

I shared in our last visit that growth in any area of your life demands a certain amount of adjustment, pain and sacrifice.  It also demands self – control or personal [...]
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8/21/2023

Peter’s purpose for writing 2nd Peter was to remind his readers, refresh their memory, so they would always remember what they already knew and were established in.  He further amplifies his point [...]
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7/31/2023

As we continue to unpack the list of qualities in 2nd Peter 1:5-11 that Peter encourages us to add to our faith we now come to perseverance.  Once you determine to demonstrate [...]
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8/22/2023

After declaring he saw with his own eyes the magnificence of Christ’s transfiguration Peter goes on to say in 2nd Peter 1:17-18, Christ “received honor and glory from God the Father [...]
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8/1/2023

We come now to a very important quality in the list enumerated in 2nd Peter 1:5-11.  Why should we add to our faith goodness, knowledge, self – control and perseverance?   Peter says, [...]
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8/23/2023

In our study of 2nd Peter it is clear Peter had a good grasp of where his readers were in their faith journey.  He wanted to affirm them, warn them about the [...]
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8/2/2023

If you’ve been studying along with us in 2nd Peter 1:1-11 I trust you’ve gained an appreciation of what the Christian life is all about.  I’ve been enriched as I’ve pondered these [...]
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8/24/2023

When Peter talked about his experience in 2nd Peter 1 he made it clear his description of what happened was not the result of a fertile imagination.  Then, referring to the prophets, [...]
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8/3/2023

In our last visit we saw that the quality of brotherly affection which is to be added to our faith is better than nothing, but it’s not all Jesus desires [...]
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8/4/2023

We’ve been studying 2nd Peter 1:1-11 for some time now.  In our last visit we began to understand the quality of agape love as seen in the love demonstrated toward us by the [...]
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8/7/2023

Now that we’ve studied in 2nd Peter 1:5-11 the qualities Peter encourages us to add to our faith two considerations emerge.   Should we work hard on any one of these qualities, [...]
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8/8/2023

In our study of 2nd Peter 1:1-11 there are a couple of words that caught my attention and peeked my interest to go deeper in what Peter was sharing.  The words are [...]
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8/9/2023

Looking at the sentence I focused on in our last visit there is another emphasis I would like to reflect on today.  The sentence is 2nd Peter 1:8, “If you possess these [...]
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8/10/2023

As we continue our study of 2nd Peter 1:1-11 we come now to the punch line in verses 10-11: “Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling [...]
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8/11/2023

As I shared in our last visit, I was caught and hooked by the phrase in 2nd Peter 1:10, “you will never fall.”  It’s like a child, I said, holding on to [...]
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8/14/2023

Let’s look again at 2nd Peter 1:10 where we are strongly challenged to make our calling and election sure.  Actually, our calling and election are actions God takes.  When He calls, it is an invitation [...]
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8/15/2023

Today we come to the final point Peter makes in 2nd Peter 1:1-11.  He points out that if you as a Christian trust in God for His abundant provisions to live as [...]
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7/3/2023

In our study of 2nd Peter 1:1-11 we noted four references to “knowledge.”  Three refer to knowledge that is clear and precise, experienced in an intimate, personal relationship.  The second reference in verse [...]
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7/25/2023

I trust you read and meditated on 2nd Peter 1:5-11 and compared it to Galatians 5:22-23 as I suggested in our last visit.  Do this periodically while we study the qualities Peter [...]
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7/4/2023

In our last visit we reflected on what 2nd Peter 1:3 promised: God’s “divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness.”  Now let’s discover how what God has [...]
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7/26/2023

In our study of 2nd Peter 1:5-11 we discovered what Peter meant when he instructed us to “make every effort to add to your faith goodness.”  Ordering your life as one who [...]
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7/5/2023

We discovered in our last visit the key that releases God’s power so everything we need for life and godliness will be provided for us.  That key is “the knowledge of [...]
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7/27/2023

As promised in our last visit here is a poem that makes the point of why goodness is an important quality to add to our faith life.  I don’t know who [...]
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7/6/2023

In our last visit we saw how 2nd Peter 1:4 ties in with verse 3 in that the very great and precious promises given to us are not to be our [...]
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7/7/2023

In recent visits we’ve discovered in 2nd Peter 1:3-4 the key to experiencing God’s power and promises in our lives.  Power to give us everything we need for life and [...]
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7/10/2023

In our last visit I shared a summary of my reflections on what I know about Jesus Christ and how He relates to us.  Let me unpack those thoughts and [...]
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7/11/2023

Let me continue to unpack my thoughts based on the phrase in 2nd Peter 1:3, “through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.”   Consider [...]
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7/12/2023

As we continue to reflect on some thoughts I came up with while studying 2nd Peter 1:3 consider the couplet: Jesus Christ, the Son of God, God the Son, is [...]
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7/13/2023

In our last visit we considered a number of couplets I wrote while reflecting on some of what I know about Jesus Christ as part of our study of 2nd Peter [...]
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7/14/2023

The next couplet I would like to share with you based on our study of 2nd Peter 1:3-4 is this: Jesus is authoritative in his word and authentic in his [...]
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7/17/2023

I trust you’re finding these reflections on what I know about my Savior Jesus Christ a source of encouragement and inspiration.  Let me share another couplet: He is august in His [...]
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7/18/2023

We come now to the final couplet in my reflections on what I’ve come to know about my Savior Jesus Christ: He is universal in His appeal, but exclusive in [...]
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7/19/2023

I said in our last visit I was sharing my last couplet of truth about my God and Savior Jesus Christ.  Well, I thought of another.  It grew out of the point [...]
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7/20/2023

In our study of 2nd Peter we’ve discovered what God provides in our relationship with Him.  He’s the one who provides Salvation, which is the foundation for our relationship with Him.  He also [...]
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7/21/2023

In our last visit we reviewed what I believe is foundational for what Peter encourages in 2nd Peter 1:5-11.  He says, “For this very reason, make every effort to add…”  In other words, [...]
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6/30/2023

The first reference to experiential knowledge is found in the opening verse of 2nd Peter.  Peter identifies himself as a servant, or more correctly, a slave of Jesus Christ.  In addition, he is [...]
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7/24/2023

In our last visit we introduced what our part is in the process of growing in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.  This is what Dr. Wuest says about [...]
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6/8/2023

We have looked at an event that took place in Caesarea as recorded in Acts 10.  This Roman fortress and city is mentioned a number of times in Acts.    In chapter [...]
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6/12/2023

Psalm 23 is a favorite Bible portion for many people.  I love it.  I’ve often preached from Psalm 23, especially during times of grief and loss.  It presents hope and purpose in the [...]
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6/13/2023

In our last visit we began a study of Psalm 23.  I am using what I call the focus and amplify study method.  To me, as I reflect on this Psalm, the [...]
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6/14/2023

Let’s continue to amplify the focus of Psalm 23: Knowing the Good Shepherd Personally. There are two reasons the Psalmist gives for declaring, “I will not be in want.”    The [...]
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6/15/2023

In our last visit we began amplifying the first reason given in Psalm 23 for affirming how the shepherd cares and provides for those with whom He has a personal [...]
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6/16/2023

We have been looking at the fourfold affirmation in Psalm 23 about how the Shepherd cares and provides for those with whom He has a personal relationship.  He makes me lie [...]
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6/19/2023

After considering the fourfold affirmation about how the Shepherd in Psalm 23 cares and provides for those with whom He has a personal relationship (verses 2-3), let’s look at verses [...]
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6/20/2023

Psalm 23:4 assures you that when you feel your world is falling apart you are not alone.  Your Shepherd is with you and will comfort you in the midst of your [...]
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6/21/2023

In our focus and amplify study of Psalm 23 we established the focus as being, “Knowing the Good Shepherd Personally.”  As we amplified this focus we indicated that verse 1 is [...]
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6/22/2023

Let’s take a little more time to reflect on the phrase in Psalm 23:6, “all the days of my life.”  The Psalm begins with the affirmation that when the Lord is [...]
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6/23/2023

As we conclude our focus and amplify study of Psalm 23 let’s reflect on the last phrase: “I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”     The Bible [...]
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6/26/2023

Recently I felt drawn to study the book of 2 Peter.  To start I read over the book a few times, meditated on what I’d read and prayed for understanding.   When [...]
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6/27/2023

In our last visit we began a fact-finding study of 2nd Peter.  We began answering the question, “Who is included in the context of this letter?”  Peter and all true believers.   Chapter 2 [...]
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6/28/2023

There are three more questions in the study approach we are using to begin our study of 2nd Peter.   First, where was Peter as he wrote this letter?  There are a number [...]
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6/29/2023

In our last visit we discovered that Peter makes it clear: having a personal knowledge of Jesus Christ’s person, plan, provision and promise is essential to living victoriously as a [...]
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6/7/2023

In our last visit I pointed out that in Acts 10 we have two truths I wanted to share with you.  The first is that God always responds in grace to [...]
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5/12/2023

When Jesus Christ began His public ministry He took the scroll of Isaiah and stood up in the synagogue and read from Isaiah 61:1-2.  Luke 4:20 then says, “He rolled up the scroll, [...]
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5/15/2023

In our last visit we reflected on the ministry Isaiah predicted Jesus would have when He came to this earth.  It’s always good to remember that even in the day of [...]
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5/16/2023

Let’s reflect further today on Isaiah 61:3, “Oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.”  I trust this impact statement has already imprinted itself on [...]
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5/17/2023

In our last visit we began to amplify what Isaiah said in 61:3, “Oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.”  We’ve amplified the first [...]
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5/18/2023

We’ve been studying Isaiah 61:3, which says, God wants to make us “oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.”  As Jesus Christ displayed the [...]
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5/19/2023

Let’s start doing an inductive study of Isaiah 64.  To do an inductive study you read the chapter a few times to determine what it says.  Then you reflect on it to [...]
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5/22/2023

In our last visit we reviewed what Isaiah said in chapter 64 of his prophecy, and then what he meant.  Now we need to ask ourselves, what difference should what we [...]
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5/23/2023

We’ve been studying Isaiah 64.  We’ve seen what is said in this chapter and then determined what it means.  Then we took what we’ve found and applied it to our own lives.   [...]
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5/24/2023

We’ve been studying Isaiah 64.  We saw how Isaiah passionately prayed for God to rend the heavens, come down and do a new work of forgiving grace.  He acknowledged Israel was unworthy.  They [...]
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5/25/2023

I closed the last program with the statement that when it seemed most bleak and hopeless for the future of the Israelites, God gave a promise of Amazing Grace. First, [...]
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5/26/2023

In a recent series of studies we reflected on what Isaiah described as an “Oak of righteousness.”  I hope that series of studies was beneficial to you.  Today I would like to [...]
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5/5/2023

I appreciate so much the way Isaiah presents God’s truth in such vivid pictures.  Listen to Isaiah 57:15, “For this is what the high and lofty One says – he who [...]
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5/29/2023

In our last visit we began our study of John 13 using the four “S” study method.  We began by spreading out the details of what is presented in this chapter.  Then [...]
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5/8/2023

At times all of us sense a need for something more in our walk with God.  When that happens one of the things some of us think of is fasting.    I [...]
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5/30/2023

In our last visit we considered the importance of all Christians, especially leaders in the church, following Jesus’ example in being Love Driven in their lives and ministry.  Now as we [...]
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5/9/2023

In our last visit we began looking at what Isaiah and Jesus had to say about fasting.  God is concerned first with our heart attitude.  God knows what prompts our decision to [...]
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5/31/2023

In our last visit we saw that Jesus was one who understood the time and the mission He was sent to fulfill.  He wants us to understand the times we live [...]
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5/10/2023

We have been looking at Isaiah 58 to find out what God is really looking for when we fast.  It’s clear God is looking for humility before Him and a dependence [...]
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6/1/2023

In recent visits we’ve seen that Jesus understood the times in which He was living.  He knew Himself, who He was and what He was called to accomplish.  He also anticipated the [...]
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5/11/2023

In our last visits we considered what Isaiah said about fasting in Isaiah 58.  He made it clear that going through the ritual of fasting doesn’t in itself impress God.  He is [...]
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4/20/2023

Over the past few weeks we have looked at Isaiah’s prophetic description of the passion of Jesus Christ and His glorious resurrection.  Building on what Isaiah said prophetically I would like [...]
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4/21/2023

In our last visit we began to look at the convincing human interactive experiences Jesus Christ provided first century Christians proving that He arose victorious from the grave and was [...]
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4/24/2023

We have been considering the Biblical witness regarding the resurrection of Jesus Christ.  We’ve listed the convincing human interactive experiences Jesus Christ provided first century Christians that He arose victorious from [...]
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4/25/2023

We left off our study of Isaiah 52:13-53:12 a week ago.  Understanding that portion is the basis of what Isaiah says in chapter 55.   This chapter reveals the evangelistic passion of the [...]
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4/26/2023

In our last visit we started amplifying the focus of Isaiah 55.  If you want to experience God’s mercy and pardon you must first come to God and receive the provisions [...]
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4/27/2023

In our last visit I encouraged you to prayerfully reflect on Isaiah 55:2-3 in preparation for our study.  Did you do what I suggested?  Were you listening?  Did you give ear and go [...]
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4/28/2023

In our study of Isaiah 55 we saw that Isaiah was calling on the people to come to God and listen to Him.  As we continue to see how the focus [...]
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4/7/2023

In our last visit we began studying what Isaiah 52:13 through chapter 53 says about Jesus Christ, the Son of God.  We discovered what was true about His person.  Now consider what [...]
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5/1/2023

In our last visit we found that the way to experience God’s mercy and pardon is to seek Him, call on Him, forsake what you know is contrary to His [...]
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4/10/2023

In our last visit we considered what the prophet Isaiah said would be done to the suffering servant, Jesus Christ, according to Isaiah 52:13 to 53:12.  Now let’s consider what Jesus [...]
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5/2/2023

In our last visit we discovered in Isaiah 55:8-9 that the natural man will have a hard time trying to understand God’s thoughts and ways.  The way we can come to [...]
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4/11/2023

In recent visits we’ve been studying what Isaiah prophesied would be done by Jesus at the hands of His Father and His accusers.  The things we’ve considered so far in our [...]
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5/3/2023

I want to return to what I mentioned in our last visit.  We reflected on Isaiah 55:10-11, which says that God’s Word that goes out from His mouth will not return [...]
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4/12/2023

As we conclude our study of what we find about Jesus Christ in Isaiah 52:13-53:12 let’s focus on what His reward will be.    Isaiah 52:13 says that “he will be [...]
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5/4/2023

As we come to the end of our study of Isaiah 55 I want us to grasp the glorious outcome when all we have studied in this chapter is followed.    [...]
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4/13/2023

We have been doing a devotional study of Isaiah 52:13-53:12.  In this study we’ve looked for what this portion of scripture says about God the Father and God the Son.  The next [...]
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4/14/2023

Let’s continue our devotional study of Isaiah 52:13-53:12 by considering what these verses reveal about man, you and me.    After reading over these verses it is clear that man’s heart [...]
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4/17/2023

The next question to consider in our devotional study of Isaiah 52:13-53:12 is this: Are there any promises to claim in this portion of scripture?  I find at least two.    The [...]
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4/18/2023

Let’s consider another question in our devotional study of Isaiah 52:13-53:12: Are there any warnings to heed?     The one that immediately jumps out at me as I reflect on [...]
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4/19/2023

In the devotional study method you answer a series of questions as you reflect on a Bible portion.  We’ve been doing this to study Isaiah 52:13-53:12.  We started by answering the questions, [...]
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3/29/2023

In our last two visits we considered some of the failures in Hezekiah’s life during those extra 15 years he had as recorded in Isaiah 39.  One further point I would [...]
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3/30/2023

We are living increasingly in days of trouble.  Whether there is more trouble in our world or whether there is more reporting of trouble or more rapid reporting of trouble, it [...]
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3/31/2023

We’re told by Jesus there is coming a time when nations will rise up against nations and there will be wars and rumors of wars.  This is happening in our world [...]
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3/10/2023

A couple of months ago I did a study of Isaiah 53.  I noted that the message God assigned to Isaiah to proclaim was right on target and reflected what is [...]
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4/3/2023

Many portions in the book of Isaiah are clearly addressed to Israel.  But I believe there can be a secondary application made to my life.  For example, in Isaiah 41, beginning [...]
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3/13/2023

I was intrigued by Isaiah’s words in chapter 33:14-17: “‘Who of us can dwell with the consuming fire?  Who of us can dwell with everlasting burning?’  He who walks righteously and speaks [...]
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4/4/2023

One of the greatest chapters in the Old Testament is Isaiah 53.  Isaiah presents such a vivid picture of the passion of Jesus Christ that it appears to be an historical [...]
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3/14/2023

Today I would like to do something I don’t usually do on this program.  Instead of dissecting a portion of scripture, as I began to do in our last visit, I [...]
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4/5/2023

In our last visit we began studying Isaiah 53, focusing on what Isaiah says about God the Father.  When I reflected further on what we discovered it sounded so ruthless.  It was [...]
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3/15/2023

In our last visit I quoted F.B. Meyer’s commentary on Isaiah 33:14-24.  In it he said, “Be sure to make God your Judge, Lawgiver, and King.  Then notwithstanding that you limp in [...]
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4/6/2023

As we continue our devotional study of Isaiah 53 I would like to focus on what it has to say about Jesus Christ, God’s Son.  To do so it will help [...]
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3/16/2023

I would like for us to study together the experiences of Hezekiah, the king of Judah, described in Isaiah 36-39.   Hezekiah was one of the few kings who is described [...]
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3/17/2023

In our last visit we began to study the experiences of King Hezekiah as described in Isaiah 36-39.  I suggested we could organize our thoughts under the three prayers mentioned in [...]
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3/20/2023

In our last visit we considered the first prayer mentioned in the four chapters, Isaiah 36-39.  If you read the opening verses of chapter 37 carefully you will notice that the [...]
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3/21/2023

As I mentioned in a recent visit, after the decision was made by the Assyrians to retreat from Jerusalem temporarily, the commander of the army sent a threatening letter to [...]
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3/22/2023

In recent visits we started to dissect Hezekiah’s prayer in Isaiah 37:15-20.  He began by praising God.  Then he pressed his case that the Assyrian king had insulted the living God with [...]
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3/23/2023

In our last visit we studied Hezekiah’s prayer in Isaiah 37.  After praising God for who He is he presented a strong argument in prayer for God to deliver him and [...]
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3/24/2023

In studying Hezekiah’s prayer life we’ve seen that at first he asked Isaiah the prophet to pray for a concern he had.  Then he prayed himself about a threat against his [...]
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3/27/2023

In our last visit we saw how Hezekiah’s life was extended 15 years in answer to his prayer.  On the surface this sound’s like a great victory.  But you might change your [...]
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3/28/2023

In our last visit we considered the folly of Hezekiah’s decision described in Isaiah 39 to let visitors from Babylon see all the treasures of his kingdom.  Now let’s consider the [...]
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3/2/2023

In our last visit we discovered by considering some experiences in the life of Moses that the danger of discouragement and disappointment after years of faithful obedience is to impulsively react [...]
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3/6/2023

The New Testament character Barnabas was given that name by the church apostles because he was always encouraging others.  Barnabas means, Son of Encouragement.   He is first mentioned in Acts 4:36 [...]
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3/9/2023

We have now considered a number of examples how some major Bible characters coped when faced with experiences of disappointment and discouragement.  We saw that if constructive action was not taken [...]
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2/13/2023

In our last visit I described the difference between having intellectual knowledge of truth about God and having experiential knowledge.  Sometimes the experiential knowledge comes through a circumstance we encounter.  At other [...]
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2/14/2023

Let’s continue our study of Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.”  We’ve been focusing on experientially knowing God the Father.  Now let’s look at God the Holy Spirit.   [...]
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2/15/2023

In our last visit we began considering some truths about the Holy Spirit.  It behooves us to make time to be still and know that He is God.  I say “He” because [...]
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2/16/2023

In recent visits we’ve considered truth about the Holy Spirit based on an impact statement in Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.”  As God, the Holy Spirit [...]
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2/17/2023

During the past few weeks we’ve been focusing our study on Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.”  We have considered getting to know experientially God the Father [...]
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2/20/2023

As we spend time this week reflecting on truths about Jesus Christ keep in mind the impact statement in Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.”     [...]
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2/21/2023

Jesus told his disciples in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me.”  He is more than the way [...]
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2/22/2023

In our last visit we explained why Jesus Christ died for our sins.  He did this not only for our sins, but the sins of the whole world.  1 John 2:1-2 says, [...]
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2/23/2023

In our last visit we looked at the gracious sacrifice Jesus Christ made in our behalf.  In considering this we looked at Philippians 2:6-11.  After describing the tremendous act of Christ emptying [...]
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2/24/2023

We’ve been doing a study of Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.”  This study by no means has been exhaustive.  Every now and then, let me encourage you [...]
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2/27/2023

While studying in preparation for this series on Psalm 46:10 a verse that came to mind a number of times is found in Isaiah 40:31.  In the KJV it reads, “They [...]
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2/28/2023

As one who has been in ministry many years let me conclude the study we’ve been doing on Psalm 46:10 by encouraging those involved in ministry to take this discipline [...]
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3/1/2023

Do you ever get discouraged or disappointed?  As you read the Bible you’ll notice every once in a while a Bible character shows signs of being discouraged or disappointed.    Three times [...]
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1/17/2023

As we’ve studied Psalm 119 in recent programs we determined a title for the Psalm: The Significance of God’s Word.  We saw the nature of God’s Word was such that it [...]
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2/8/2023

Physicist and rabbinical scholar Gerald Schroeder makes the following observation: “At the speed of light (the highest speed attainable in our universe), time ceases to flow altogether.  The time of all [...]
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1/18/2023

In our last visit we found that God’s unfailing love will come to those who seek and call out to Him, trusting in His promise.  Once you’ve taken this step you [...]
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2/10/2023

We’ve been reflecting in recent visits on the theme found in Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.”  One thing I want to be careful to not do [...]
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1/19/2023

In our study of Psalm 119 we have seen the nature of God’s Word: why we should turn to it as a map and mandate for life.  We also found some [...]
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1/20/2023

If you weren’t convinced of the importance of God’s Word in our previous programs on Psalm 119, today’s study should convince you.  Let’s consider the benefits of God’s Word to our [...]
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1/23/2023

As I’ve read and studied Psalm 119 with you over recent weeks I’ve become convinced I should devote myself more to the mastery and meditation of God’s Word.  I must make [...]
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1/24/2023

Do you ever get discouraged or disappointed?  As you read the Bible you’ll notice every once in a while a Bible character shows signs of being discouraged or disappointed.    [...]
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1/25/2023

In our last visit we discovered, by considering some experiences in the life of Moses, that the danger of discouragement and disappointment after years of faithful obedience is to impulsively react [...]
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1/26/2023

In our last two visits we learned some lessons from Moses and David about coping during times of disappointment and discouragement.  Looking at the life of Paul you discover that when [...]
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1/27/2023

The New Testament character Barnabas was given that name by the church apostles because he was always encouraging others.  Barnabas means, Son of Encouragement.     He is first mentioned in Acts [...]
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1/30/2023

I believe all of the Old Testament prophets experienced times of disappointment and discouragement.  Consider Habakkuk who shared how he came to understand what God was really intending to do with [...]
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1/31/2023

We’ve looked in recent visits at how a number of Bible characters coped when facing times of disappointment and discouragement.  Now let’s look at Jesus Christ.  Was He ever discouraged or disappointed [...]
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2/1/2023

We have now considered a number of examples how some major Bible characters coped when faced with experiences of disappointment and discouragement.  We saw that if constructive action was not taken [...]
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2/2/2023

We are encouraged in God’s Word, Psalm 46:10, to “Be still and know that I am God.”  Consider with me this impact statement. What’s involved in being still?  What does it mean [...]
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2/3/2023

In our last visit we began reflecting on the impact statement in Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.”  We saw that in the midst of the turmoil [...]
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2/6/2023

We have been looking at the impact statement in Psalm 46:10 in recent visits, “Be still and know that I am God.”  There are a number of things you will discover [...]
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1/16/2023

We’ve been considering some preliminary thoughts based on the Psalmist’s strong but very honest statements in Psalm 119 on the significance of God’s Word.  After making it clear that he holds [...]
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2/7/2023

An interesting statement in 1 John 1:5 is that “God is light.”  In this context John is speaking about the fact that we are sinners in contrast to God who is [...]
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12/21/2022

As we continue to summarize what we learned from our study of Acts 20:17-21:1 let me share another application: finishing well.   Paul put it this way in his address to [...]
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12/23/2022

What we celebrate during the Christmas season was love driven and directed.  During this season let me encourage you to review what God did to show His love for you, for [...]
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12/28/2022

In our last visit we focused our attention on how Mary, the mother of Jesus, responded to what she saw, heard and experienced that first Christmas 2000 years ago.  Let’s now [...]
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12/29/2022

We have been studying how Mary and Joseph responded to what they saw, heard and experienced on that first Christmas 2,000 years ago.  Today, think with me about how the shepherds [...]
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12/30/2022

In contrast to the example of Mary, Joseph and the shepherds let’s look at the tragic response, or lack of response, on the part of the Biblical scholars that first [...]
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1/2/2023

I am a novice when it comes to computers, but you don’t need to understand very much about computers to know that output is based on input.  Jesus said the same [...]
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1/3/2023

In our last visit we discovered an impact thought: input determines output. What we put into our minds and hearts will determine what comes out of our lives. We will [...]
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1/4/2023

Watch!  Watch out!  Keep watch!  Be ready!  These are the imperatives sprinkled throughout the Olivet Discourse, found in Matthew 24-25.      These two chapters are Jesus’ answer to the disciples question in chapter 24, [...]
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1/5/2023

The Bible describes what takes place when a person invites Jesus Christ into his/her life to be his/her Savior and Lord.      While talking with Nicodemus in John 3, Jesus [...]
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1/6/2023

In our last visit we considered what it means to be born again as declared in John 3:1-16.  Reading on in John 3 Jesus is introduced by John the Baptist to [...]
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1/9/2023

In our last visit we considered the differences in a relationship from when a couple first starts meeting together until they get married.      Using this spectrum of a developing [...]
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1/10/2023

In studying John 3 we’ve considered how to help people understand where they’re at in their relationship to Jesus Christ.  Once they’ve come to understand approximately where they are, you can [...]
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1/11/2023

In recent visits we have been developing a way to help people identify where they are in their faith journey or relationship with Jesus Christ.    I described a developing [...]
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1/12/2023

Today I’d like to start a chapter study of Psalm 119.  To do this, after reading the psalm a few times, give it a title and identify a key verse.  State what [...]
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12/19/2022

We’ve now come to the final point in doing a “4S” study of Acts 20:17-21:1, Paul’s farewell address to the elders from the church of Ephesus.   We spread out the [...]
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1/13/2023

In our last visit we began a study of Psalm 119.  I suggested that the first 8 verses were introductory.      You’ll notice the Psalm is divided into sections with each [...]
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12/20/2022

Dawson Trottman coined the phrase and wrote a pamphlet titled, “Born to Reproduce.”  Paul the apostle might not have coined the phrase, but he lived it.   We saw in our study [...]
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11/29/2022

In recent visits we’ve uncovered the dramatic story of how the Christian church in Ephesus was planted and grew exponentially.   The impact it had on the pagan society and its [...]
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11/30/2022

We’ve been considering the larger historical context to help us understand Acts 20:17-21:1.   The short letter addressing the Church of Ephesus found in Revelation 2:1-7 describes this church as still [...]
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12/1/2022

We’ve reviewed in recent visits the larger context of what Paul said to the elders of the church of Ephesus recorded in Acts 20:17-21:1. There were some dramatic events and [...]
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12/2/2022

Now that we’ve considered the larger context to help us understand the specific context of Acts 20:17-21:1, let’s use a number of study methods to understand it better and remember [...]
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12/5/2022

As we continue to study Acts 20:17-21:1 I’d like to share another study method, what I call an “Impact Thought.”      Often when reading the Bible you will have a [...]
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12/6/2022

Now that we’ve been exposed to Paul’s farewell address to the elders of Ephesus found in Acts 20:17-21:1 let’s do what I call a “4S” study of this portion: spread, [...]
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12/7/2022

In our last visit we began structuring information we gathered from Paul’s farewell address to the Ephesian Church elders found in Acts 20:17-21:1.   The first point was his manner, or [...]
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12/8/2022

Paul reminded the elders from the church of Ephesus in Acts 20:17-21:1 of the things he taught them during a three year period of ministry in that city.  Now, in his [...]
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12/9/2022

As Paul addressed the elders from the church of Ephesus in Acts 20:17-21:1, he made it clear that in the final analysis, it is God who grows the church and [...]
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12/12/2022

In our study of Acts 20:17-21:1 we’ve considered Paul’s manner and message.  Let’s turn our attention to his mission.   Paul shares his mission in verse 24: “I consider my life worth [...]
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12/13/2022

As we saw in our last visit, Paul took his mission seriously.   He warned everyone he encountered to turn from sin to God and accept His offer of grace – [...]
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11/21/2022

In our last visit we considered the faith struggle seen in the women described in Mark 16.  Now let’s focus on the disciples.   They heard Jesus’ repeated promise that He would [...]
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12/14/2022

In recent visits we have studied what Paul’s farewell address in Acts 20:17-21:1 tells us about Paul – his manner, his message and his mission.  Now let’s structure information from this [...]
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11/22/2022

We’ve been considering the challenge of faith seen in the lives of those mentioned in Mark 16.   Once being reproved by Jesus for their lack of faith and stubborn refusal [...]
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12/15/2022

We’ve been studying Paul’s farewell address to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20:17-21:1.  We’ve considered what this portion tells us about Paul and those elders.  Now let’s focus our attention on what [...]
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11/24/2022

I was recently drawn again to a portion in the Bible I’ve often reflected on, Acts 20:17-21:1.   Before I set out to study these verses I was reminded of something [...]
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12/16/2022

As we’ve studied Paul’s farewell address to the Ephesian church elders we’ve used the “4S” study method: spread, sort, structure and summarize.  We’ve structured three points in our outline, now let’s [...]
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11/25/2022

In our last visit we considered the beginning of a bigger context for what is recorded in Acts 20:17-21:1.   We saw how Paul got to know Aquilla and Priscilla in [...]
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11/28/2022

We’ve been familiarizing ourselves in recent visits with the bigger historical context to help us understand what is said in Acts 20:17-21:1.   What we have seen is what Jesus illustrated [...]
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11/3/2022

We’ve focused in recent visits on the insensitivity of the disciples toward others as well as toward their own weakness and vulnerability. That was bad enough, but worse yet was [...]
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11/7/2022

The repetition of a word or phrase often helps us understand a portion of the Bible.  I call such words or phrases, insight words.   You’ll notice when reading Mark 15 the [...]
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11/8/2022

As we saw in our last study the phrase “the king of the Jews” is repeated 6 times in Mark 15.  It becomes an insight word or phrase, and helps you [...]
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11/9/2022

In studying Mark 15, we tried understanding how the phrase “the king of the Jews,” mentioned 6 times, can help us understand the message in this chapter.  Jesus affirmed the statement [...]
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11/10/2022

In our study of Mark 15 we’ve seen that the phrase, “the king of the Jews,” helps us get God’s message in this chapter.  Jesus affirmed the statement was true of [...]
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11/11/2022

We’ve looked at different individuals or groups who in Mark 15 used the phrase, “the king of the Jews.”   After Pilate found no fault in Him, he turned Him over [...]
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11/14/2022

It’s been interesting to see how the phrase, “the king of the Jews,” in Mark 15, helps you understand what was taking place and to learn truth that can help [...]
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11/15/2022

In our last visit we identified a number of believers present during Jesus Christ’s trial, judgment and crucifixion.   Were you surprised that Joseph of Arimathea was a believer?  Remember, it was [...]
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11/16/2022

We’ve spent some time now reflecting on the impact phrase found repeatedly in Mark 15, “The King of the Jews,” referring to Jesus.   We saw that some derided Jesus for [...]
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11/17/2022

When reading the final chapter of the Gospel of Mark it is clear that faith in the resurrection of Jesus Christ is a crucial factor in Christianity.   Jesus predicted His [...]
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11/18/2022

Let’s look again at Mark 16.  When the women got up early Sunday morning after Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, they were expressing their devotion to Jesus, not their faith in Him.  They bought [...]
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10/28/2022

As we’ve studied Mark 14 we’ve seen in the life of Jesus the kind of experiences we might encounter if we go for broke in our walk with Jesus and [...]
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10/31/2022

Sometimes as you read and study a book of the Bible and get close to the end of your study a thought crops up in your mind that identifies some [...]
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11/1/2022

In our last visit I pointed out that the disciples had not yet learned from Jesus the need to become sensitive of the hurts and burdens of those around them. [...]
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11/2/2022

In our last two visits we noted the disciples were insensitive to people in general as well as to fellow believers. In addition they were insensitive to their own needs. [...]
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9/28/2022

In our last visit we outlined Mark 10. Under the title: The Key to a God Blessed Life, we identified three major points: in your family, in your personal life, [...]
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10/4/2022

In our last visit we worked on a "4S" (step) study of Mark 11. After spreading out the details found in this chapter we sorted the information into three groups [...]
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10/5/2022

In our last two visits we have begun a "4S" (step) study of Mark 11: spread, sort, structure, summarize. We spread out the facts in the chapter before us and [...]
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10/7/2022

So far in our study of Mark 11 we’ve spread out the information found in the chapter, sorted it into groups or topics, and structured it into an outline. The [...]
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10/10/2022

On this program I try to introduce you to a variety of Bible study methods to help you get God’s message in His Word. The Psalmist wrote about hiding God’s [...]
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10/11/2022

In our last visit we focused on the importance of memorizing the Word of God. There is a basic secret to memorization. Always learn the reference where the verse is [...]
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10/12/2022

As we go through Mark 12 I’m trying to share the importance of memorizing God’s Word. In verses 18-27 you find the well-known discussion about seven brothers all of whom [...]
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10/13/2022

As I’ve pointed out in recent visits, memorizing God’s Word is very important. We’ve seen that a good place to start memorizing is finding key verses that capture the truth [...]
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10/14/2022

Let me share one more verse in Mark 12 that I would encourage you to memorize — verse 44, "They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of [...]
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10/17/2022

I remember talking to my brother some years ago about Bible study. He was frustrated as a Sunday School teacher because he felt so dependent on his teacher’s manual. Even [...]
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10/18/2022

In our last visit I introduced what I call a devotional study method. I pointed out that I shared it with my brother to help him in his preparation for [...]
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10/21/2022

As we conclude our devotional study of Mark 13 let’s focus our attention on answering the final question: Are there any promises to claim by faith? The first and most [...]
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9/27/2022

In our last visit we identified a title, key verse and significant truth as we began doing a chapter study of Mark 10. Let’s continue by looking for cross references [...]
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9/1/2022

When reading the Bible do you ever notice the repetition of a given word in some passages? Often such repetition will give you an insight into the meaning of what [...]
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9/2/2022

In our last visit we discovered the importance of looking for insight words which help us to understand a portion of the Bible. Now let’s do that while reading Mark [...]
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9/5/2022

In our last two studies we’ve looked at the importance of noticing when a word is repeated a number of times in a portion of the Bible. Such words will [...]
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9/6/2022

Do you ever feel that God is putting you off when you come to Him with a prayer request? Then read Mark 7:24-30. A Greek woman from Syrian Phoenicia had [...]
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9/7/2022

I’d like to share an example of the power of the Good News of Jesus Christ. As we’ve studied the book of Mark we read the parable of the growing [...]
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9/8/2022

In recent visits we’ve observed what Jesus did and taught as recorded in the Gospel of Mark. It seems the disciples should have had their confidence built up by this [...]
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9/12/2022

As we continue our study of Mark, what did Jesus mean in Mark 8:15, "Be careful, watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod"? In checking [...]
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9/13/2022

At times Jesus does things in unusual ways. It’s not always clear why He does this, but the end result of His work in our lives is always good. I [...]
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9/14/2022

We’ve spent a number of visits reflecting on chapter 8 of Mark’s Gospel. To do what I call a "4S" study of this chapter we would spread out what information [...]
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9/15/2022

We’ve been studying Mark 8 using the "4S" approach to Bible Study: spread, sort, structure and summarize. After spreading out information found in this chapter we sorted it into subjects [...]
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9/16/2022

In our visit today I’d like to focus on an impact statement found in Mark 9:7, "This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him." It’s fairly easy to [...]
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9/19/2022

In our last visit we studied the impact statement in Mark 9:7, "This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to Him." This is spoken by the Heavenly Father, about [...]
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9/20/2022

In Mark 9 we read about the privilege Peter, James and John experienced when they witnessed the transfiguration of Jesus. But they were confused about what Jesus meant when He [...]
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9/21/2022

There are some interesting things to notice about teaching and learning in Mark 9:28-32. If you want to be a good teacher remember the following: the importance of questions, the [...]
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9/23/2022

In our last visit we discovered what Jesus said about servant leadership. He pointed out in Mark 9:35, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, [...]
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8/30/2022

In our last visit we considered the impact statement found in Mark 6:31, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." Jesus was counseling His [...]
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8/2/2022

In our last visit we gave Mark chapter 2 a title and identified some key verses. Then we crafted a sentence to capture the significant truth of the chapter: Jesus [...]
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8/4/2022

Did you know you could rob yourself of a blessing Jesus wants you to receive. Let me explain by referring to Mark 3:1-6. Jesus is in a synagogue on the [...]
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8/8/2022

In Mark 3 Jesus enlists the 12 apostles. Who were these men? I’d like to share a fictitious letter sent to Jesus by a management consultant team.   "Dear Sir: [...]
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8/9/2022

  In our last visit I read a fictitious letter which humorously suggested how many evaluate the qualifications of others regarding their ability or potential to serve the Lord. As [...]
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8/10/2022

  What was it that caused Jesus to speak those dreadful words found in Mark 3:28-29? "I tell you the truth, all the sins and blasphemies of men will be [...]
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8/12/2022

  When reading Mark 3:31-35 in preparation for this program a lot of thoughts flooded into my mind. I decided to do a "4S" study approach: spread, sort, structure and [...]
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8/15/2022

In our last study we looked at Mark 3:31-35, spread out information found in these verses, sorted it into groups and structured it into an outline. We gave the title [...]
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8/16/2022

Whenever you attempt to study the Bible you should realize the first step is to observe what is being said in the text you are going to study. Note the [...]
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8/17/2022

While reading the Bible it’s important to interact with what you are reading. Pray for insight as you read. Then try crystallizing in your mind what you understand is being [...]
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8/18/2022

In our last visit we considered what an impact thought is. Let me review: As you read the Bible, pray that God would enable you to interact with what He [...]
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8/19/2022

In our last few visits we’ve been studying some of Christ’s teaching in Mark 4. The chapter closes with Christ performing a miracle of calming a violent storm on the [...]
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8/22/2022

Let’s look at Mark chapter 5. In our last visit we discovered how Jesus miraculously delivered a demon possessed man. Following this miracle the people requested Jesus to leave their [...]
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8/23/2022

As we continue our study of Mark 5 think of some questions you might have based on the events described there. A major question that came to my mind was, [...]
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8/24/2022

I was fascinated in our study of Mark 5 to notice, as individuals were experiencing the grace and power of God in their lives, there was ridicule expressed by many [...]
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7/29/2022

In reading the Gospel of Mark chapter 2 you will encounter a fascinating account of how friends of a paralytic found a creative way to bring him into the presence [...]
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7/4/2022

Today I would like to start a “3C” Biographical Study of another Biblical character: John Mark.  We know him better as just Mark.  Yes, he is the one who wrote [...]
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7/5/2022

In our last visit we began a “3C” biographical study of the life of Mark.  Barnabas, who was an older cousin to Mark, took him under his wing and groomed [...]
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7/6/2022

We’ve been doing the first step in a “3D” biographical study of the life of Mark by  collecting information about him.  Now we need to correlate this information into an [...]
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7/7/2022

We’ve been doing a “3C” biographical study of the life of Mark.  We started by collecting information about his life in the Bible.  Then we correlated it into an outline.  [...]
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7/8/2022

In our last visit we began to crystallize what we learned from doing a “3C” biographical study of the life of Mark.  Let’s continue developing applications we can make based [...]
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7/11/2022

Sometimes when reading a book of the Bible a phrase might keep popping up and grab your attention.  It’s good when this happens to write down what you find about [...]
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7/12/2022

In our last visit we found the phrase “doing what is good” or something close to it is mentioned 8 times in the book of Titus.  We tried understanding what [...]
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7/14/2022

Christians should be examples of doing what is good and encouraged to do what is good.  No one would argue that, especially if you reflect on the eight references to [...]
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7/20/2022

We’ve been doing a biographical study of the life of John Mark, author of the Gospel of Mark. We collected information about his life and correlated it into an outline. [...]
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7/21/2022

Now that we’ve been introduced to the author of the Gospel of Mark let’s dig into what he wrote about the life of Jesus Christ. Mark begins with His public [...]
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7/22/2022

In our last visit we began to answer some questions based on the first 9 verses of Mark 1. We answered the Who? and What? questions. Now let’s answer the [...]
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7/25/2022

While studying the first 9 verses of Mark’s Gospel in recent visits I began to understand some of the dynamics involved in John the Baptist’s ministry. Then when I read [...]
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7/26/2022

In recent visits we’ve looked at the ministry of John the Baptist as seen in Mark’s Gospel. Let’s now look at how Jesus Christ launched His ministry. As I read [...]
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7/27/2022

In our last visit we noted how Jesus deliberately worked at having some important priorities in place as he launched His public ministry. Other qualities emerged as He responded to [...]
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7/28/2022

Before we leave our study of Mark chapter 1 let me encourage you to look again at verse 35, where we read, "Very early in the morning, while it was [...]
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7/1/2022

In recent visits we’ve demonstrated the first two things involved in doing a “3C Biographical Study” of the life of Agabus: collecting information about his life and correlating it into [...]
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6/10/2022

  In our last visit I pointed out that in Acts 10 we have two truths I wanted to share with you.  The first is that God always responds in [...]
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6/13/2022

We have looked at an event that took place in Caesarea as recorded in Acts 10.  This Roman fortress and city is mentioned a number of times in Acts.  In [...]
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6/14/2022

In our last visit we saw how Paul the apostle experienced the outworking of God’s plan for his life.  He had a strong passion to visit the church in Rome [...]
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6/16/2022

   visit we In our last visit we introduced some background for what Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 2:9: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived [...]
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6/17/2022

 In our last few visits we have looked at 1 Corinthians 2 and focused on verse 9: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what [...]
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6/20/2022

In our last visit we discovered in 1 Corinthians 2 that some of what God prepared for those who love Him is forgiveness through Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross.   [...]
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6/21/2022

In our last visit we talked about the ministry of the Holy Spirit.  He gives believers wisdom to see, hear and perceive in their minds the truth of the Gospel [...]
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6/22/2022

  In our last visit we saw in 1 Corinthians 2:16 that God is totally self-sufficient in Himself.  He doesn’t need our input.  In fact He wants to input the [...]
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6/23/2022

As we began exploring what Paul was saying in 1 Corinthians 2 we especially focused on verse 9.  I pointed out I had understood this verse to be speaking about [...]
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6/24/2022

As I was reading in Acts 11 I came across this statement: “During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch.  One of them, named Agabus, stood up [...]
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6/27/2022

In our last visit we began a “3C Biographical Study” of the life of Agabus, mentioned two times in the book of Acts.  The first “C” stands for collecting information [...]
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6/28/2022

Let’s continue our “3C Biographical Study” of the life of Agabus by reviewing the second time he is mentioned in Acts 21:10-11.  This time Agabus comes from Judea on his [...]
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6/29/2022

Now that we’ve collected information about the life of Agabus, found in Acts 11 & 21 we need to correlate it into an outline, the second step in a biographical [...]
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6/30/2022

In our last visit we found that God authenticated Agabus’s faithful exercise of the gift of prophecy God gave him.  Exercising other gifts faithfully might not have as demanding a [...]
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5/31/2022

In our last visit we discovered that Ruth had turned to the God of Israel and away from her former gods in Moab.  This choice was similar to what we [...]
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6/3/2022

As we discovered in an earlier visit, Ruth committed her life and future to the God of Israel and followed that commitment with faithful obedience to what she knew was [...]
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5/11/2022

In our study today we come to the 4th chapter of 2nd Timothy.  We indicated the first three chapters capture the essence of 2nd Timothy 4:7, the verse I chose [...]
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5/13/2022

In recent visits we’ve considered the audience Paul describes in 2nd Timothy 4.  Jesus Christ is watching and listening to what we do and say, and we are accountable to [...]
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5/16/2022

As we continue answering the interrogatives in our devotional study of 2nd Timothy 4 I want us to focus on the “What?” Question now.  If I’m to discharge all the [...]
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5/17/2022

In our last visit we listed some of the duties Paul told Timothy and us to discharge in our ministry for Him.  Let me share some more duties found in [...]
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5/18/2022

We have been doing a devotional study of 2nd Timothy 4 in which we answer the Who? What? Why? When? Where? and How? questions based on the context of the [...]
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5/19/2022

In our devotional study of 2nd Timothy 4 we now come to the final interrogative, How?  How do we “discharge all the duties of our ministry”?  Or put another way, [...]
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5/20/2022

  In our last visit we began answering from 2nd Timothy 4 the question, How do we discharge all the duties of our ministry? Or, How do we run each [...]
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5/23/2022

  We are winding down our devotional study of 2nd Timothy 4, discovering how to discharge all the duties of our ministry.  There is one final point I would like [...]
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5/24/2022

While on a mission trip with my wife recently we read, studied and discussed the book of Ruth together and found it fascinating again.  I say again because I often [...]
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5/25/2022

I pointed out in our last study that choices matter in life.  Some have unintended negative consequences.  Elimelech’s decision to take his family to Moab, as described in the book [...]
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5/26/2022

In our study of the book of Ruth we’ve seen that choices matter.  Naomi, obediently went with her husband Elimelech to the country of Moab to escape the harsh conditions [...]
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5/27/2022

In our study of the book of Ruth we now find Naomi facing another decision.  She was widowed as were her two daughters-in-law.  In addition she heard that the famine [...]
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5/30/2022

Choices matter in life.  We have seen this played out in a number of the lives mentioned in the book of Ruth.  Naomi said good-by to Orpa who chose to [...]
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5/3/2022

  We come now in our 4S study of 2nd Timothy 2:22-26 to the final “S” – summarize. In this summary the focus is on developing some practical applications that can be [...]
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5/4/2022

  As we continue our study of 2nd Timothy we are ready to dig into chapter 3. I would like to do an inductive study of this chapter.   To do this you [...]
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5/6/2022

We have been doing an inductive Bible study of 2nd Timothy 3 in recent visits.  We have answered the questions, what does this chapter say and what does it mean?  [...]
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4/12/2022

In our last visit we began to consider God’s antidote to the debilitating feelings of being ashamed – ashamed to stand up and testify about our Lord, or to stand [...]
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4/14/2022

We have seen in our study of 2nd Timothy 1 what it takes to keep the faith while serving Christ. This is especially true if our service is seen as a relay [...]
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4/20/2022

In our last visit we discovered in 2nd Timothy 2 that you can’t expect fellow teammates in the relay races of life and service to run their laps with sacrificial dedication [...]
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4/21/2022

Let’s continue our study of 2nd Timothy 2 by amplifying the point of running the race to win. We noted that Paul wanted Timothy and us to reflect on what he pointed [...]
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4/22/2022

As Paul describes why he was willing to suffer for Christ in 2nd Timothy 2 he breaks into song. This was not uncommon for him as we saw in our study of [...]
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4/25/2022

In our last visit we began looking at the hymn of encouragement and praise Paul referred to in 2nd Timothy 2:11-13. I encouraged you to memorize it and reflect on it in [...]
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4/26/2022

In reading 2nd Timothy 2:14-26 it is clear that perseverance is essential for anyone who wants to win while running a race. Paul demonstrated this throughout his years as an apostle. Now he [...]
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4/27/2022

There are two positive ways to look at running a race. One is to run to win. The other is to better your previous best time. If you keep bettering your time [...]
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4/29/2022

In our last visit we began to amplify the first point in our outline: there are things to flee. We should flee the evil desires of youth, even if we are [...]
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5/2/2022

Isn’t it great to be a child of God? And for those of us called to serve God, what a privilege it is. I am so thankful for the opportunity God has [...]
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4/1/2022

  In our last visit I noted that periodically in the midst of his teaching very practical things in 1st Timothy Paul would spontaneously break out in a song of [...]
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4/4/2022

 In our last visit we noted that Paul couldn’t give his testimony without bursting forth in praise to the one true, unique God, our Savior (1st Timothy 1:17).   This happens [...]
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4/5/2022

As we saw in our last two visits, though 1st Timothy is a practical book on how to lead a church aright, Paul periodically, in the midst of his instruction, burst [...]
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4/6/2022

We have been studying the life of Timothy and then the book of 1st Timothy. That book was written by Paul after his first incarceration in Rome. 5-6 years later Paul was again in [...]
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4/7/2022

Before we proceed with our study of 2nd Timothy let me share a little more on the picture that came into my mind as I reflected on the contents of the [...]
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4/8/2022

In recent visits we began to do a “Focus and Amplify” study of 2nd Timothy. I suggested for the focus the title: “Passing the Baton in the Relay Race of Life.” And then [...]
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3/15/2022

In our last visit we noted in 1st Timothy 4:8 the importance of endeavoring to stay healthy physically so we can apply ourselves to godliness and God’s work.  That is [...]
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3/16/2022

We have noted in recent visits on this program that being an effective leader in Christ’s church takes work.  There are no shortcuts.  There are many obstacles.  And it would [...]
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3/18/2022

In our last visit we looked at 1st Timothy 5:1-2 and discovered the importance of treating one another with a view of maintaining healthy relationships.  We need each other, so [...]
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3/23/2022

Spiritual leaders live in a fishbowl.  They are first and foremost accountable to God for how they live.  Then, they are accountable to the church in which they serve, and [...]
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3/24/2022

  The closing chapter of 1st Timothy focuses on contentment.  In our materialistic society it is easy to become discontent with things as they are in our lives, so what [...]
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3/25/2022

In our last visit we began a chapter study of 1st Timothy 6.  We gave the chapter the title: Godliness with Contentment, and chose verses 6-7 as key to understanding [...]
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3/28/2022

 In our last visit we began to amplify the points in the outline we developed to understand how to experience godliness with contentment.  Let’s now turn to the second point [...]
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3/29/2022

We have been studying 1st Timothy 6 seeking to amplify a three point outline under the title, “Godliness with Contentment.”  We amplified the first two points in previous visits.  Now [...]
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3/30/2022

We have been doing a chapter study of 1st Timothy 6 for some time now.  We identified a title: “Godliness with Contentment.”  We chose verses 6-7 as key verses.  After [...]
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3/31/2022

As we worked our way through 1st Timothy in recent weeks I noticed three times as Paul was sharing important information with Timothy on leadership he spontaneously broke into a [...]
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3/3/2022

  In our last visit I opened the book of 1st Timothy and just plunged in to what Paul wrote to his young associate whom he left in the church [...]
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3/4/2022

  The challenge Paul gave Timothy in the opening verses of 1st Timothy to deal with false teachers in the church at Ephesus was significant.  Paul knew young Timothy might [...]
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3/7/2022

  We have been looking at 1st Timothy 1 over the last few days.  Paul is writing Timothy, the pastor of the church in Ephesus, urging him to deal with [...]
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3/8/2022

Paul emphasizes the importance of prayer in 1st Timothy 2.  I believe this emphasis is to be applied in both our private praying as well as in public worship.  Prayer [...]
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2/15/2022

In our last visit we amplified what we found in the Bible about Timothy’s early life in Lystra.  Now let’s amplify the second point in our outline: His call and [...]
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3/9/2022

 In our last visit we discovered the importance of prayer in the life of the church and of each believer for creating the setting where evangelism can take place effectively.  [...]
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2/16/2022

In continuing our biographical study of Timothy by developing an historical sketch we come to point four: His effective ministry with team members and by himself.  As already mentioned I [...]
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3/11/2022

  Being an effective leader in Christ’s church takes work.  There are no shortcuts.  There are many obstacles.  And it would be easy to throw in the towel and give [...]
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2/17/2022

  In our study of Timothy in which we have been developing an historical sketch of his life we now come to the final point in the outline: His imprisonment, [...]
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2/18/2022

  In our last visit I mentioned that Timothy faced the same fate as Paul and many other faithful servants of God have experienced – he ended up in prison [...]
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2/21/2022

We have been doing a biographical study of the life of Timothy.  We started by collecting information about his life from the New Testament and then correlated it into an [...]
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2/22/2022

  As we continue our study of Timothy and develop a character portrait of his life let’s look at how this well-grounded young, Christian man grew.  It is clear that [...]
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2/23/2022

In our last visit we saw that Timothy grew in his walk with God by experiencing the highs and lows of traveling with Paul and Silas.  I’m sure his questions [...]
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2/24/2022

  In our study of Timothy as found in the New Testament one character trait emerges as his strongest asset.  Paul described it this way in Philippians 2:19-22: “I hope [...]
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2/25/2022

  In reading the book, The Apostle: a life of Paul, by John Pollock, I came upon a paragraph that captured what we’ve discovered in our study of the life [...]
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2/28/2022

In our last visit I introduced the third step in doing a biographical study: crystallize what you have learned into some applications you can make to your own life.  Until [...]
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3/1/2022

  As we conclude our study of the life of Timothy let me share a few more applications based on what we have learned.  As we saw in our study, [...]
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3/2/2022

  Now that we have done a biographical study of the life of Timothy to whom Paul wrote two letters, let’s take a look into those letters to learn more [...]
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1/18/2022

In our last visit we found Gideon discovering that His Lord was Jehovah-shalom, the Lord is Peace.  To commemorate that experience he built an altar, calling it, The Lord is [...]
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2/8/2022

We’ve been studying Psalm 139 using the focus and amplify approach.  We noticed the prayer at the close of the Psalm expresses the focus: Searched by God.  Amplifying this focus [...]
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1/19/2022

God’s concern for us, His sheep, is further amplified by a promise of restoration.  Unfaithful leaders had led the people into what would become their captivity.  There would be a [...]
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2/9/2022

In our study last week we discovered how God has a plan for our lives and has all the details of that plan written in a book before we experience [...]
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1/20/2022

Ezekiel introduces another name for God at the very end of his prophetic book. Listen to what he says in Ezekiel 48:35: “And the name of the city from that [...]
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2/10/2022

Well, did you get a chance to do some digging in the Bible to find information on the life of Timothy since our last visit?  I did, and though I [...]
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1/21/2022

The Lord is omnipresent and omnipotent.  Nothing is higher than Him.  He is over all.  All is subject to Him.  In Psalm 84 He is worshiped and extolled as the [...]
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2/11/2022

As we saw in our last visit Paul loved and affirmed Timothy over and over again in his letters.  His confidence in Timothy’s character, gifting and faithfulness enabled him to [...]
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1/24/2022

Psalm 23 is one of the best known Psalms, and the favorite of many.  It begins with this personal testimony: “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want” (Psalm [...]
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1/25/2022

In our last visit I referred to John 10:1-28 which describes Jehovah-Raah in the New Testament.  He is referred to as the good shepherd.  Jesus declares, “I have other sheep [...]
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1/26/2022

We have been considering what the Bible says about Jehovah-Raah.  The psalmist merely refers to Him as his Shepherd.  John adds to this name for God by adding, Good Shepherd.  [...]
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1/27/2022

In the New Testament Jesus was introduced to the shepherds that first Christmas eve as follows: “For today in the city of David there has been born for you a [...]
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1/28/2022

It may surprise you that the name Jesus was in common use for boys in the first century – much as Tom, Bob or Bill are used today.  To some [...]
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1/10/2022

I trust you’ve been encouraged by our study of names for God in the Bible.  Let’s consider another generic name found in Exodus 6:2-3 in the Living Bible: “I am [...]
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1/31/2022

Immediately after the account we studied in our last visit you find another name for Jesus. Listen to it: “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through [...]
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2/1/2022

We have studied the various names given to Jesus Christ in the Bible. Over eighty times The New Testament identifies Jesus as the Son of Man. This name for Jesus refers to [...]
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2/2/2022

In our last visit we found Jesus Christ is referred to over eighty times as the Son of Man. This title does not focus only on His humanity. Matthew tells us that [...]
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2/3/2022

We have studied for a number of weeks now various names for God the Father and the Son. Now let’s consider some names given to God the Holy Spirit.  This designation focuses [...]
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2/4/2022

Have you ever prayed what is found in Psalm 139:23-24, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.  See if there is any [...]
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2/7/2022

In our last visit we began a focus and amplify study of Psalm 139.  The focus is in the form of a prayer, verses 23-24, “Search me, O God.”  This [...]
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12/21/2021

In our last visit we began to focus on what Paul taught about grace in the book of Galatians.  We saw something of the dynamic of God’s grace.  Now let’s [...]
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12/22/2021

It is time for us to consider the ultimate expression of the grace of God as found in the book of Galatians.  It is found in Galatians 4:4-7, “But when [...]
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12/23/2021

Christmas is a time when we celebrate the greatest gift ever given in all of history.  It was a gift given by the united participation of each person of the [...]
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12/24/2021

The wonder of it all!  That’s what comes to my mind as I think about what to say on the program this Christmas.  The wonder of it all.  The wonder [...]
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12/27/2021

In our last visit we began to discover something of the delight of experiencing God’s grace as described in the book of Galatians.  There are now well over 7 billion [...]
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12/28/2021

  We have been focusing on what Paul taught about grace in the book of Galatians in recent visits.  Let’s continue to consider the dangers associated with grace.  Depending on [...]
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1/3/2022

Some years ago I included in one of my books a section on some of the names of God.  I would like to share this material over the next few [...]
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1/4/2022

Early in my study of Theology I sat under an inspiring professor, Dr. Bragg, who amplified further the etymology of the name Elohim, that we considered in our last visit.   [...]
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1/5/2022

In our visit today I would like to introduce you to another name for God, El Elyon, which means, God Most High. It is found in the account in Genesis [...]
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1/6/2022

Let’s consider another name for God.  In Genesis 17:1-2 God declares to Abraham, “I am God Almighty (El Shaddai); walk before me, and be blameless.  And I will establish my [...]
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1/7/2022

In previous visits we’ve seen that God is understood through His names.  A reference where this is true is Genesis 21:33: “Abraham planted a tamarisk tree at Beersheba, and there [...]
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1/11/2022

Genesis 22:14 says, “Abraham called the name of that place The Lord Will Provide (Jehovah-Jireh), as it is said to this day, ‘In the mount of the Lord it will [...]
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1/12/2022

God uses rather unique ways to teach us at times.  In Exodus 15 we find the Israelites in the desert.  After three days they finally found some water at Marah.  [...]
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1/13/2022

At the close of our last visit I asked what lessons we can learn from the experience of the Israelites in the cities of Marah and Elim described in Exodus [...]
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1/14/2022

Fierce opposition confronts us at times.  Left to ourselves we could not stand in the face of such opposition.  But as the people of God we have the privilege of [...]
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1/17/2022

In the thick of a battle we sometimes feel abandoned by God.  When nothing goes our way, it sometimes feels like defeat is almost certain.  Should we let such feelings [...]
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11/23/2021

In an earlier visit I mentioned four points under the title, Experiencing the Fulfilled Life: faith, freedom, faithfulness and fruitfulness.  Let’s expand these points by considering what Paul shared in [...]
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11/25/2021

We have seen in our study of Galatians that trying to keep the law as a means of getting saved and/or growing in our relationship with Jesus Christ once this [...]
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11/29/2021

In our last visit I highlighted how Abraham, after being declared righteous by believing what he had heard from God, continued day in and day out living by faith.  Paul, [...]
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11/30/2021

In our last visit we focused on the freedom we experience when we trust in Jesus Christ. Paul amplifies this truth by referring to the experience of Isaac, Abraham’s son [...]
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12/2/2021

In Galatians 5:13 we have seen that Christians are “called to be free.”  But we are not to use our freedom “to indulge the sinful nature.”  Too often the first [...]
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12/3/2021

Let’s continue studying Galatians 5:13 by considering the third point; we are free to “serve one another in love.”  The first obvious point is the emphasis on reciprocal love.  We [...]
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12/6/2021

In our last visit I made reference to Galatians 5:6, “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.”  A person who truly trusts in Jesus Christ will [...]
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12/8/2021

We have seen in recent visits that it is the Holy Spirit who enables us to die to self and live to the glory of God.  When we surrender to [...]
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12/9/2021

In our last visit we were unpacking what Paul describes as the fruit of the Holy Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23.   As we continue let’s look at the character trait of [...]
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12/10/2021

We concluded our last visit by pointing out that the character traits listed as being the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 describe the person of Jesus Christ.  Remember, [...]
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12/13/2021

We have seen in our study of Galatians that Paul makes mention of the Holy Spirit quite a number of times.  In Galatians 3:2 Paul asks, “Did you receive the [...]
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12/14/2021

In our last visit we discovered that the Holy Spirit makes the relationship we have with God intimate and authentic.  We can come into God’s presence as sons and daughters [...]
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12/16/2021

There are two kinds of fruitfulness mentioned in Galatians: the fruit of the Spirit and the fruit of ministering to others.  The fruit of the Spirit is what God does [...]
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10/25/2021

We have been studying Ephesians 5:1-6:4 and have found that God wants us to discover and experience the secret of a quality life, especially in marriage.  In these verses you [...]
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11/16/2021

For some time now I have wanted to do a study of the book of Galatians in the New Testament.  Some think this was one of Paul’s earliest books, if [...]
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10/26/2021

We’ve studied Ephesians 5:1-6:4 and done a focus and amplify study of these verses.  In our study I noticed that the term “children” is mentioned 4 times in these verses.  [...]
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11/18/2021

In our last visit we reviewed how Paul had his life dramatically and permanently transformed by the power of experiencing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  He was exposed to [...]
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10/27/2021

To experience a quality life in marriage and family you need the foundation of a quality life in the family of faith.  This truth is developed in Ephesians 5:1-21.  The [...]
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11/19/2021

Paul summed up his personal testimony in Galatians 2:20: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.  The life I live in [...]
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10/28/2021

In our study of Ephesians 5:1-21 we have seen that to experience a quality life in marriage and family you need to have the foundation of a quality life in [...]
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10/29/2021

When you look at how Paul describes what a healthy marriage and family looks like the picture is clear.  Look again at Ephesians 5:21-6:4.  He begins with the injunction that [...]
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11/1/2021

Let’s look again at Ephesians 5:21-6:4 and note something that is often forgotten.  When it says wives are to submit to their husbands, Paul is addressing the wives, not the [...]
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11/2/2021

When you think of idolatry what comes to your mind?  I usually think of statues of false gods worshipped by people.  Paul puts a broader application to the concept of [...]
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11/3/2021

When people think of living a holy life they often think that would require retreating from the real world.  You might conclude the same when reading what Paul says in [...]
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11/4/2021

One of the fascinating truths of Ephesians 5:1 – 6:4 is that we are to be a people in process of growth at all times, especially in our relationships.  We [...]
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11/5/2021

In studying about marriage in Ephesians 5:21-33 you notice something surprising.  In the middle of specific instructions for wives and husbands Paul injects a verse that at first seems to [...]
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11/8/2021

Do you know what the oldest institution is in the Bible?  If you go back to Genesis 2 you will find it is the institution of marriage.  Paul quotes that [...]
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11/9/2021

What does it mean to “honor your father and mother” as instructed in Ephesians 6:2?What if your parents have lived in such a way that they do not deserve to [...]
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11/10/2021

Fathers have a special opportunity to equip their children for living a life that pleases God.  In many families Mothers assume this responsibility.  Not that they shouldn’t be a vital [...]
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11/11/2021

To better understand a portion of the Bible it’s good to check cross-references that deal with the same subject.  Colossians 3:18-21 deals with marriage and family issues with the same [...]
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11/12/2021

When studying a given portion of the Bible it is always good to look into what other portions might have to say on the same subject.  In studying marriage and [...]
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11/15/2021

Let me suggest looking at a cross-reference to what Ephesians 5:21-6:4 says about the responsibility of husbands.  You will find some challenging information in 1 Peter 3:7.  “Husbands, in the [...]
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10/1/2021

In our last two visits we focused on David and Nabal as we considered one day in the life of David as described in 1 Samuel 25.  Let’s now study [...]
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10/4/2021

As we continue our study of one day in the life of David based on 1 Samuel 25 I would like for us to focus our attention on the servant [...]
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10/5/2021

As I mentioned in our last visit, one man with no status, no resources and very little probable influence did what he could to avert devastation of those among whom [...]
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10/6/2021

As we’ve studied one day in the life of David as described in 1 Samuel 25 we saw that no man is an island to himself.  People around us will [...]
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10/7/2021

We referred in our study of 1 Samuel 25 to Ephesians 4:26, “‘In your anger do not sin.’ Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”  [...]
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10/8/2021

Two contrasting principles highlighted in our study of 1 Samuel 25 are seen in the lives of Nabal and Abigail.  Nabal illustrates a principle repeated throughout the Bible, “Pride goes [...]
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10/11/2021

The most practical principle illustrated by Abigail in 1 Samuel 25 is found in Romans 12:18, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace [...]
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10/12/2021

We’ve considered some practical principles based on our study of 1 Samuel 25.  Let’s look at another, captured in Proverbs 20:15, “lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.”  It’s [...]
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10/13/2021

The final principle I’d like to highlight based on our study of 1 Samuel 25 is found in John 9:4.  Jesus told His disciples, “As long as it is day, [...]
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10/14/2021

In our last visit I introduced the final practical principle we discovered in our study of 1 Samuel 25.  It’s expressed by Jesus in John 9:4, “As long as it [...]
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10/15/2021

In our last visit I shared how Jesus words in John 9:4 broke down into three points: opportunity everywhere, opportunity ebbing, and opportunity ended.  I explained how I shared this [...]
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10/18/2021

One final application I’d like to make based on the three points: opportunity everywhere, opportunity ebbing, opportunity ended. Believers should make the most of opportunities that come our way for [...]
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9/27/2021

As we’ve studied the prayer of Jabez and some cross-references I was reminded of an experience I had a few years ago.  I preached on the priestly blessing found in [...]
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10/19/2021

The Bible has much to say about life.  It discusses how life was created, how it was impacted by the disobedience of man, and how God provided a new way [...]
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9/28/2021

I was fascinated when reading 1 Samuel 25 to see the destructive and constructive dynamics of anger displayed.  There are three primary characters and one secondary character described in this [...]
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10/20/2021

The Secret of a quality life, especially in marriage, is what I see as the focus of what you find in Ephesians 5:1-6:4.  As Paul amplifies this focus he develops [...]
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9/29/2021

In our last visit we took a snapshot of one day in the life of David, described in 1 Samuel 25.  The primary characters in this drama were David, Nabal, [...]
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10/21/2021

Some people seem to have a special marriage and family life.  You might wonder what goes into making that happen.  If you take Paul’s words in Ephesians 5:1-6:4 seriously you [...]
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9/30/2021

In our last visit we focused on David as we considered one day in his life as described in 1 Samuel 25.  The antagonist that day was Nabal, a wealthy [...]
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10/22/2021

As we’ve studied Ephesians 5:1-6:4 using the focus and amplify approach I identified the focus as: The secret of a quality life, especially in marriage.  Thinking about it some more [...]
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9/6/2021

We have been doing an inductive study of Solomon’s dedicatory prayer after he built the temple. It is found in 2 Chronicles 6:14-42. We’ve considered what it says and what it [...]
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9/7/2021

As we continue to discover a proper understanding of prayer and how we are to pray, let’s turn to Daniel 9.  We see in Daniel’s prayer many of the same [...]
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9/8/2021

In our last visit we considered Daniel’s prayer recorded in Daniel 9.  It was a prayer prompted by God’s promise.  It began with worship and then went into confession.  It [...]
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9/9/2021

In recent visits we’ve studied Solomon’s prayer in 2 Chronicles 6.  Then Daniel’s prayers in Daniel 9 and 10.  It’s interesting to note when Solomon finished praying, “fire came down [...]
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9/13/2021

In our last visit we began studying the Disciple’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13.  The focus of this portion is, Learning from the Disciple’s Prayer. We started amplifying this focus by [...]
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9/14/2021

We have been studying what Jesus wants us to know about prayer under the focus or topic: Learning from the Disciple’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13).  Jesus encourages us to begin our [...]
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9/17/2021

We’ve tried learning from the Disciple’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13 how to pray.  We now come to the request, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil [...]
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9/20/2021

As we come to the close of studying Matthew 6:9-13, where we have been Learning from the Disciple’s Prayer, let’s consider one final thought.  In some late manuscripts the prayer [...]
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9/21/2021

Have you heard of the book, The Prayer of Jabez?  Have you read it?  If not, let me wet your appetite to look for it and read it.  If you [...]
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9/22/2021

In our last visit I introduced the prayer of Jabez, found in 1 Chronicles 4:9-10.  The prayer contains four simple requests: bless me, enlarge my territory, let your hand be [...]
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9/23/2021

I encouraged you in our last visit to compare the priestly blessing in Numbers 6:24-26 with the prayer of Jabez in 1 Chronicles 4:10.  I did this because it seems [...]
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9/24/2021

We’ve been looking at the prayer of Jabez and the priestly blessing in the Old Testament.  Let’s take it one step further; compare Jesus’ High Priestly prayer in John 17 [...]
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8/30/2021

The final application I would make based on our study of the life of King Solomon is this: God wants us to humbly trust Him and pursue a long obedience in [...]
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9/1/2021

In our last visit we introduced the topic of having a proper understanding of prayer and lessons we can learn to enhance our prayer life. Let’s continue by looking more closely [...]
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9/3/2021

We’ve been studying Solomon’s dedicatory prayer found in 2 Chronicles 6:14-42. After building his case for asking God to come and dwell in the temple he had built for Him, he [...]
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8/9/2021

  Throughout this brief series on the topic of joy we have found a good number of reasons why as Christians we should be characterized by joy. But if you are [...]
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8/10/2021

  I recently had the privilege and joy of participating in the wedding of one of my grandsons. Among other things they asked me to present what marriage is all about [...]
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8/11/2021

In our last visit I began elaborating on some thoughts I shared at my grandson’s recent wedding. I began by pointing out that there is more than a mere physical dimension [...]
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8/12/2021

In our study of what is involved in marriage as God designed it we’ve considered the physical and rational dimensions of marriage. In his book, The Song of Songs, Solomon vividly [...]
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8/13/2021

As we continue our study of what is involved in marriage as God designed it, let me just say, since my wife and I are celebrating our wedding anniversary, I know [...]
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8/16/2021

In our study of marriage as God designed it we’ve discovered there are physical, rational, romantic/emotional and social dimensions to marriage. They’re all important.  In John 3 we are introduced to [...]
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8/17/2021

When reading the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1 the listing of Solomon is unusual. It says, “David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah’s wife.”   It is [...]
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8/18/2021

In our last visit we began to do a biographical study of the life of King Solomon using the “3C” study method: collect, correlate and crystallize. I shared where details of [...]
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8/19/2021

In our last visit we began to amplify the first point in the outline on the life of Solomon. God loved Solomon and gave him a great start with all he [...]
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8/20/2021

We have considered how God showed His love to Solomon during the first half of his reign. After building the temple and his palace God appeared to him a second [...]
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8/23/2021

In our study of the life of King Solomon we’ve focused our attention on the fact that God loved Solomon. Now let’s consider the second point in our outline: Solomon’s love [...]
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8/24/2021

  We have been doing a “3C” study of the life of King Solomon. We started by collecting information on his life. Then we correlated it into an outline which we have [...]
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8/26/2021

Now that we have amplified the outline of our study of King Solomon we come to the third point in our “3C” study method: crystallize what we’ve learned into some applications we [...]
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8/3/2021

In our last visit we began to amplify the second point in our outline on Cultivating a Joyful Spirit.  Based on Philippians 1:18 Paul chose to rejoice that Christ was [...]
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8/6/2021

  In our last visit we began to develop the final step in our three “C” study of the topic of joy in the book of Philippians. Let’s continue to crystallize [...]
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7/6/2021

In the parable of the sower we got a glimpse into the nature of the human heart as seen in the response to truth.  Let’s go back to the beginning [...]
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7/7/2021

Jesus declared in John 15:5, “Apart From me you can do nothing!”  This is a humbling but true conclusion Jesus Christ wants every one of us to come to.  Man, [...]
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7/9/2021

The Apostle Paul declared in Ephesians 2:8-10, “It is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God [...]
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7/16/2021

Our responsibility as followers of Jesus Christ is to bear witness of Him before a watching world.  Our enemy doesn’t want us to do this, and if we do, he [...]
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7/19/2021

  In our last visit we pointed out the importance of the ministry of the Holy Spirit if we are to give a powerful witness for Christ.  We looked at [...]
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7/20/2021

  Paul makes a powerful point in 1 Corinthians 9:19 about being free and belonging to no man.  I would add, that we are free from all men, even others [...]
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7/21/2021

In our last visit we considered what Paul meant in 1 Corinthians 9:19 when he declared, “I make myself a slave to everyone.”  Let’s continue that study by noting what [...]
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7/22/2021

In our last visit we looked at what Paul said in 1 Corinthians 9:19, “I make myself a slave to everyone.”  My concluding point was that we as Christians are [...]
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7/23/2021

  As I was working on developing the last point I made in our study of 1 Corinthians 9:19 a thought occurred to me.  Those whose lives make a significant [...]
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7/26/2021

We’ve been studying 1 Corinthians 9:19 which I have taken as my life’s verse. Not often does a verse in the Bible break down into three neat points:     [...]
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7/27/2021

Let me share with you one final observation based on our study of 1 Corinthians 9:19. Some might think that Paul was willing to make himself a bondslave to everyone [...]
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7/29/2021

In our last visit I encouraged you to read the book of Philippians in the New Testament and note every reference to the word joy or rejoice.  They are mentioned [...]
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7/30/2021

In our last visit we began to amplify the outline we constructed based on the information we collected on the subject of “Cultivating a Joyful Spirit.”  This material was found [...]
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7/2/2021

  Whenever you attempt to study the Bible the first step you should take is to observe what is being said in the text.  Note the actual facts or statements.  [...]
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6/10/2021

You might not know who the Psalmist is referring to in Psalm 110 upon first reading it.  But if you check out some cross references it becomes very clear that [...]
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6/11/2021

One of the most positive, upbeat statements in the Bible is Psalm 118:24, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” I [...]
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6/14/2021

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible.  It is located about in the middle of our Bibles.  The Bible is referred to in virtually every one of the [...]
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6/17/2021

In our last visit we were looking at Psalm 126 together.  I pointed out that while reading this Psalm I came up with an Impact Thought, “You are saved to [...]
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6/18/2021

Psalm 127 begins with what I would call an Impact Statement – “Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain.”  The second part of the verse regarding [...]
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5/24/2021

Among my favorite verses in the Word of God are Lamentations 3:22-23: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.  They are new [...]
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6/21/2021

Have you developed the discipline of waiting on the Lord?  I have to admit this is an ongoing battle for me.  Psalm 130 tells us what would be helpful in [...]
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6/23/2021

Have you ever heard someone say, “I believe in the God of the New Testament, not the God of the Old Testament.  The God of the New Testament is a [...]
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6/24/2021

Have you ever prayed what is found in Psalm 139:23-24, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.  See if there is any [...]
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6/25/2021

In our last visit we began a focus and amplify study of Psalm 139.  The focus is in the form of a prayer, reflected in verse 1, “O Lord, you [...]
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6/28/2021

We’ve been studying Psalm 139 using the focus and amplify approach.  We noticed the prayer that closes the Psalm expresses the focus: Searched by God.  We then amplified this focus [...]
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6/29/2021

As you come to the closing Psalms in the book of Psalms you’ll find they are a collection of songs of praise. In Psalm 145 the Psalmist describes God as [...]
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6/30/2021

  There are many places in the Bible where we are commanded to love others.  Peter declared in 1 Peter 4:8, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers [...]
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7/1/2021

  I have to share something with you that illustrates what we studied in our last visit.  In an issue of Christianity Today a few years ago Robertson McQuilkin was [...]
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6/4/2021

  In our last visit we began doing a study of Psalm 103 seeking to answer a few questions after reading and reflecting on the Psalm.  The first question we [...]
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5/11/2021

If you’ve done something wrong and God convicts you about it, don’t stonewall it.  It doesn’t pay.  Follow the Psalmist’s example spelled out in Psalm 51.  Cry out for God’s [...]
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6/7/2021

In recent visits we looked at Psalm 103 and answered some questions as a means of studying it.  The first question we answered was, what does it say about God?  [...]
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5/12/2021

Most people would agree with the psalmist when he says in Psalm 53:1, “The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’  They are corrupt and their ways are [...]
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5/13/2021

There probably is nothing more painful than the rejection of one whom you thought was your close friend.  If you are a Christian, it’s worse yet if that close friend [...]
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5/14/2021

Fear is a very common experience for most of us.  We feel threatened in certain circumstances and sometimes it’s difficult to know how to cope. I think the psalmist experienced [...]
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5/17/2021

I don’t know if David did what we now call journaling, but many of the Psalms he wrote read like he did. Psalm 62 begins with an affirmation of what [...]
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5/18/2021

Sometimes our circumstances become an incentive for seeking God.                          When surrounded by enemy forces, David cried out to God to be a refuge, a strong tower, a shield.  When he [...]
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5/19/2021

Have you ever cried out to God, “If you get me out of this mess I’ll turn my life over to You.  I’ll go to church, I’ll give a tithe [...]
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5/20/2021

Have you ever had an experience where you’re walking along, preoccupied, looking at other things and don’t realize you’re stepping on something slippery like a banana peel?  That’s similar to [...]
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5/21/2021

Do you feel depressed or rejected by God sometimes?  If you do you will probably identify with what the psalmist says in Psalm 77:7-9?  “Will the Lord reject forever?  Will [...]
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5/25/2021

Whenever I read Psalm 78 I think of my mother.  She did what this Psalm says parents should do.  Listen to verses 3-7, “What we have heard and known, what [...]
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5/26/2021

In our last visit I shared how my mother lived out what the Psalmist shared in Psalm 78.  She taught her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren truths from God’s Word.  [...]
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5/27/2021

Being a pastor, I normally take note of references in the Bible that refer to shepherds.  Why?  Because pastor means shepherd.  It’s not surprising, therefore, that when I came to [...]
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5/28/2021

Have you ever had an encounter with the Living God?  Do you have such encounters on a regular basis?  Do you desire such an experience?  If not, why not? As [...]
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6/1/2021

In our last study we looked at the first part of Psalm 84 where the Psalmist describes his “heart cry” for an encounter with the living God.  Today let’s look [...]
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6/2/2021

We’ve studied Psalm 84 and discovered what it’s like to have an encounter with the living God, or better yet, an ongoing encounter with the living God.  We’ve seen the [...]
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5/7/2021

We live in troublesome times.  We don’t always understand what’s going on around us.  In times like these do you tend to fret?                                                               [...]
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4/14/2021

In our last two visits we considered some of James’ closing thoughts in his book.  We looked at consistency and compassion.  Consistency can at times lead to a legalistic mindset [...]
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4/15/2021

As a change of pace I’d encourage you to read the book of Psalms.  I understand Billy Graham made it a practice to read through the Psalms each month.  We [...]
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4/16/2021

As I reflected further on Psalm 1 I decided we should do an inductive study of this Psalm..  First, discover what it says.  Then determine what it means.  Third, ask [...]
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4/21/2021

In our last visit we began an inductive study of Psalm 5 by observing what it says.  We covered the first 8 verses.  Let’s continue by noting that as king [...]
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4/22/2021

Let’s continue doing our inductive study of Psalm 5 to see how David cultivated his daily walk with the Lord, his king.  Though he was king he lived in an [...]
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4/23/2021

Now that we’ve looked at what Psalm 5 says, let’s consider what it means.  Psalm 5 can be broken down into three parts – prayer, worship and praise – with [...]
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4/26/2021

In Psalm 5 the psalmist indicated he started right in the morning by praying for God’s help, and continued praying throughout the day to keep that focus in his walk [...]
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4/27/2021

In our last visits we considered what’s involved in walking with the king, our Lord, based on Psalm 5.  Prayer, first thing in the morning, is a good way to [...]
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4/28/2021

On this program I encourage you to read and study the Bible regularly, to make this a part of your daily routine.  Why?  Because you won’t always be able to [...]
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4/29/2021

In our last visit I mentioned I was working on memorizing Psalm 16:5-6.  These verses encouraged me.  I then worked at memorizing a few more verses from Psalm 16. “Keep [...]
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4/30/2021

Recently I was on a brief rest trip with my dear wife.  On the 4 hour flight to our destination I did some reading in the Psalms and wrote out [...]
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5/3/2021

In our last visit we began studying how David eloquently and in a profound way presents theological truth.  After pointing out that natural revelation communicates truth about God to all [...]
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5/6/2021

Did you know that some of the Psalm’s are prophetic?                                                   Take Psalm 22.  It starts with the words Jesus uttered while hanging on the cross: “My God, my God, [...]
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4/6/2021

We have been studying the book written by the half-brother of Jesus.  James didn’t come to believe in Jesus Christ as his Messiah until after Christ died on the cross [...]
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4/9/2021

In recent visits we’ve considered what James said about patience and perseverance.  In James 5:7-11 he illustrates his point by referring to the farmer, the prophet and Job. While waiting [...]
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3/22/2021

We’ve studied what James said about transforming the tongue so it will consistently be used to enrich and bless others and bring honor and glory to God.  In conclusion, listen [...]
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3/23/2021

As we continue our study of the book of James in the New Testament I’d like to look at what James says about the rich and the poor in his [...]
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3/24/2021

In our last visit we looked at what James says about the issue of rich and poor in the church.  There is to be equality in the family of God, [...]
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3/30/2021

In our last visit we began amplifying the main points in our outline of James 4.  Let’s continue by looking at the second point based on James 4:4-6: Being Christian [...]
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3/31/2021

We’ve been doing a chapter study of James 4. After identifying the title and key verse we looked at some problems and cross-references.  Then we began to outline the chapter.  We’ve [...]
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4/1/2021

As we continue working on the outline of James 4 we need to look at verses 13-17 where James discusses being Christian in our work when we feel we’ve got [...]
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4/2/2021

In our last visit we considered what James said about being Christian in our work when we feel we’ve got life by the tail.  We tend to plan for the [...]
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4/5/2021

As I mentioned in our last visit, once we do a study of a portion of scripture and determine as best we can what God is saying to us, we [...]
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2/15/2021

In our study of Habakkuk we learned a number of lessons we can apply to our lives. One of the most obvious lessons is that God wants us to trust Him [...]
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2/16/2021

We have been considering some take-away lessons we can apply to our own lives based on our study of the book of Habakkuk. One final lesson can be put this way: [...]
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2/5/2021

In our last visit we discovered that Habakkuk lived during the time King Josiah led Judah into a nationwide revival. As a part of that it is recorded Josiah led his [...]
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2/8/2021

We have tried to understand the process Habakkuk experienced during his time of service as a prophet to Judah. He saw a revival break out under the leadership of King Josiah. [...]
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1/18/2021

Let’s continue to amplify the first point in our outline of the book of Habakkuk.  The authentic personal relationship the prophet had with God was being tested.  To answer his [...]
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2/9/2021

I remember a conversation I had with an older student when I was at Moody Bible Institute many years ago. He said, “Never preach to others what you have not first preached [...]
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1/19/2021

In the authentic personal relationship Habakkuk had with God he discovered what is found in Isaiah 55:8-9: “‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ [...]
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2/10/2021

After studying the book of Habakkuk for a number of weeks it’s time to ask, what are some take-away lessons we can apply to our own lives? The Bible speaks truth [...]
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1/20/2021

  We have been amplifying the first point in our outline with what we found in the book of Habakkuk.  He had an authentic personal relationship with God.  This is [...]
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2/11/2021

As we continue to wrap up our study of the book of Habakkuk let’s underline one of the most basic lessons to learn from our study. We will never gain sufficient [...]
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1/21/2021

In past visits we have amplified the first point in our outline of the book of Habakkuk.  Now let’s look at point two: Authentic prayers to God.  The book of [...]
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2/12/2021

Building on the first two lessons we mentioned growing out of our study of the book of Habakkuk, here is a third lesson: There is no guarantee life will be easy [...]
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1/22/2021

Let’s look again at the second point in our outline of the book of Habakkuk: Authentic prayers to God.  Growing out of his authentic personal relationship with God the prophet [...]
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1/25/2021

After the prophet presented his complaints to God in the form of prayers in chapter one of Habakkuk, he didn’t quite know what else to do.  He wasn’t satisfied with [...]
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1/26/2021

Authentic prayers growing out of an authentic personal relationship with God get answers.  They might not be what was asked for, but to the person with an authentic personal relationship [...]
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1/27/2021

In our last visit I shared the prayer found in Habakkuk 3:2, “Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, O Lord.  Renew them [...]
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1/28/2021

  We have been studying the prayer of the prophet in Habakkuk 3.  Though he trembled in his boots as he anticipated the devastating attack of the Babylonian army sent [...]
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1/29/2021

  Thus far in our study of Authenticity in Life and Service based on the book of Habakkuk we’ve amplified the first two points in our outline: An authentic personal [...]
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2/1/2021

In our last visit we saw how Habakkuk experienced getting the message for writing his prophecy. Now let’s consider what the message actually was. God is slow to get angry. He [...]
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2/2/2021

We have been amplifying the third point in our outline of the book of Habakkuk: how he authentically proclaimed God’s message to his people. He shared his experience of how he received [...]
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2/3/2021

In the book of Habakkuk the prophet shared not only the message he received from God but also how he responded to the message himself. Thus his proclamation was two-fold. It was [...]
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2/4/2021

What an example the prophet Habakkuk was of the powerful truth God shared with him: “the righteous will live by his faith” (Habakkuk 2:4). Though almost overwhelmed by all God shared [...]
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12/21/2020

What I received I passed on to you as of first importance.  (1 Corinthians 15:3) Paul lived to share with anyone and everyone God brought his way what he had [...]
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1/14/2021

In our last visit I shared an outline based on the information we found in the prophetic book of Habakkuk.  The title I gave the outline was: Authentic in Life [...]
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12/22/2020

By your words you will be acquitted.  (Matthew 12:37) In our last visit we discovered the first step people need to know and accept if they want to know God [...]
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1/15/2021

In our last visit we began amplifying the first point in the outline of the book of Habakkuk.  The prophet had an authentic personal relationship with God as illustrated in [...]
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12/23/2020

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!  (1 Corinthians 9:15) The good news about Jesus Christ is that He is a gift from God the Father to be received [...]
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12/24/2020

You are going to receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you must be witnesses for Me.  (Acts 1:8 The New Testament, Charles B. Williams, MBI, 1949) [...]
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12/25/2020

We’ve been studying about pre-evangelism, evangelism and post-evangelism in recent visits.   A good thing to do this Christmas would be to reflect on the people who influenced your life.  Ask [...]
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12/28/2020

As I mentioned in our last visit, my parents, especially my Mother, had a profound impact on my life.  It was the environment they created in our home that set [...]
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12/29/2020

Today I’d like to introduce you to a few of those God used to help me grow in my Christian life.  I don’t remember much from my Sunday School days, [...]
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1/1/2021

  For some time now I’ve been reading and meditating on the Old Testament book of Habakkuk.  I was prompted to do this while praying about the direction our country [...]
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1/4/2021

In our last visit we began to meditate on the impact statement in Habakkuk 1:5: “Look at the nations and watch – and be utterly amazed.  For I am going [...]
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1/5/2021

As we continue our study of the book of Habakkuk let me introduce you to another impact statement: “The Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth be [...]
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1/6/2021

We have looked at two impact statements in the book of Habakkuk so far as we have begun our study of this prophetical book.  Let’s look at one more, the [...]
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1/7/2021

We’ve begun our study of the book of Habakkuk by looking at three impact statements.  As we’ve considered the context in which they were made we have become familiar with [...]
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1/8/2021

What do you focus on when you pray?  Read again the prophet’s prayer in Habakkuk1:2-4).  Notice his focus is on himself and then his people.  “I call,” “I cry out,” [...]
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1/11/2021

In our last visit we looked at the focus Habakkuk had as he prayed and complained to God.  He was focused on his own life, on his family, on his [...]
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1/12/2021

One final reflection before we pull details of the book of Habakkuk together into an outline.  Let’s consider the timing of all that Habakkuk discusses in his prophecy.  Most scholars [...]
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1/13/2021

As we continue our study of the book of Habakkuk we are now familiar enough with the contents of the book to develop an outline.  When I did this I [...]
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11/27/2020

By the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect.  No, I worked harder than all of them – yet not [...]
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11/30/2020

They risked their lives for me.  (Romans 16:4) In a recent study we noted all of the people Paul refers to in Romans 16.  I’m sure he considered each of [...]
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12/1/2020

All the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them.  (Romans 16:4) In our last visit we began a biographical study of the life of Priscilla and Aguila mentioned in [...]
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12/2/2020

They invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.  (Acts 18:26) In our biographical study of Priscilla and Aquila we have gathered information [...]
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12/3/2020

Paul went to see them, and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them.  (Acts 18:3) The last few days we have been doing [...]
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12/4/2020

A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of…Rufus.  (Mark 15:21) Let’s continue doing a biographical study of another person mentioned in Romans 16.  In Romans 16:13 we read, “Rufus, [...]
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12/7/2020

Rufus, chosen in the Lord.  (Romans 16:13) In our last visit we were working on a biographical study of the man Rufus, mentioned in Romans 16:13.  When we correlated the [...]
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12/8/2020

I commend to you our sister Phoebe…she has been a great help to many people, including me.  (Romans 16:1&3) Today I’d like to do a biographical study of another person [...]
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12/9/2020

He sent two of his helpers.  (Acts 19:22) Let’s look at another person mentioned in Romans 16:23, “Erastus, who is the city’s director of public works.”  We find two other [...]
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12/10/2020

The ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray.  (Revelation 12:9) You can count on it, during times of transition, God will be working in [...]
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12/11/2020

Now to him who is able to establish you.  (Romans 16:25) If you’re going through a time of transition I’m sure you have experienced opposition of one sort or another.  [...]
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12/14/2020

God is able to make all grace abound to you.  (2 Corinthians 9:8) In our last visit we considered God’s ability to establish peace in our hearts no matter what [...]
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11/23/2020

  Times of transition can be unsettling.  Getting preoccupied dealing with all the things involved in a time of transition can keep you from some important things necessary to stay [...]
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12/15/2020

Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear – hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.  [...]
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11/24/2020

Brothers, pray for us.  (1 Thessalonians 5:25) In our last visit we considered the importance of having a Biblical basis for doing what we do in life with our time [...]
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12/16/2020

See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut.  (Revelation 3:8) On the same trip I mentioned in our last visit I was flying from [...]
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11/25/2020

  A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.  (Ecclesiastes 4:12) One of the best antidotes to discouragement while going through transition is to have others stand with you [...]
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12/17/2020

To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!  (Revelation 5:13) In our last two visits [...]
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11/26/2020

  They risked their lives for me.  (Romans 164) It is always interesting to hear how your life has touched others.  It’s also interesting to hear how others have ministered [...]
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12/18/2020

You are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on [...]
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11/5/2020

Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters,  (Romans 14:1).  We’ve been doing a devotional study of Romans 14:1-15:13.  In this study we tried answering some [...]
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11/6/2020

I have been longing for many years to see you.  (Romans 15:23) Paul Harvey, the well-known radio personality, is known for sharing "the rest of the story!"  Many who read [...]
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11/9/2020

Now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, and since I have been longing for many years to see you, I plan to do [...]
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11/10/2020

After I have completed this task.  (Romans 15:28) If you are going through a time of transition you don’t need to get discouraged.  You can make it through the transition [...]
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11/11/2020

I have finished the race.  (2 Timothy 4:7) After visiting missionaries on a number of fields a few years ago I came away concerned because far too many of them [...]
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11/12/2020

I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me. (Romans 15:18) Paul knew how to manage his life and ministry so he could finish the [...]
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11/13/2020

So after I have…made sure that they have received this fruit, I will go to Spain.  (Romans 15:28) In our last visit we began amplifying the focus of Romans 15:14 [...]
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11/16/2020

I plan to do so.  (Romans 15:24) We have been studying Romans 15:14 through chapter 16 to find out some secrets Paul utilized to stay on target in his work [...]
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10/26/2020

Anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.  (Romans 14:18) Thus far in our devotional study of Romans 14:1-15:13 we answered the questions, [...]
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11/17/2020

It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known.  (Romans 15:20) In studying Romans 15:14 through chapter 16 we found that Paul was organized [...]
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10/27/2020

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us.  (Romans 15:4) As we continue our devotional study of Romans 14:1-15:13 let’s consider what Paul says about [...]
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11/18/2020

  That my service in Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints there.  (Romans 15:31) Do you find it hard to keep being productive while going through transition?  Is it [...]
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10/28/2020

Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. (Romans 15:7) In our study today let’s find out what Paul says about man in [...]
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11/19/2020

I have written you quite boldly on some points.  (Romans 15:15) In recent visits we have seen that the apostle Paul maintained discipline in his life by establishing a purpose [...]
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10/29/2020

Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.  (Romans 15:2) It is important to understand what Paul’s focus is in Romans 14:1-15:13.  He is [...]
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11/20/2020

Paul went to see them, and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them.  (Acts 18:3) It’s always helpful to see something you’re working [...]
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10/30/2020

We live or die, we belong to the Lord.  (Romans 14:8) In our study today we will look for promises to claim in Romans 14:1-15:13.  Whenever you feel as though [...]
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11/2/2020

We will all stand before God’s judgment seat.  (Romans 14:10) In our last study we considered promises to claim in Romans 14:1-15:13.  Now let’s look for warnings to heed.  The [...]
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11/3/2020

Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food.  (Romans 14:20) In our last visit we studied what Paul said in Romans 14:1-15:13 about our being responsible [...]
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11/4/2020

It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or do do anything else that will cause your brother to fall.  (Romans 14:21) We’ve been studying what Paul said [...]
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10/14/2020

Put aside the deeds of the darkness and put on the armor of light.  (Romans 13:12) We have been doing an inductive study of Romans 13.  First we read, observed [...]
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10/15/2020

Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ.  (Romans 13:14) In our last visit we began interpreting Paul’s description of “the deeds of darkness” as described in Romans 13:13, “orgies and [...]
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10/16/2020

Since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it.  (Hebrews 4:1) We’ve been doing [...]
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10/19/2020

We are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being and those who are perishing.  (2 Corinthians 2:15) Before closing our inductive study of Romans 13 there [...]
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9/28/2020

In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.  (Romans 12:20) I was fascinated by an illustration that throws a whole new light on what Romans 12:20 means: [...]
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10/20/2020

As we move on in our study of this most important book in the Bible I would like to do a devotional study of the next section, Romans 14:1-15:13.  Some [...]
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9/29/2020

The Lord will reward you.  (Proverbs 25:22) As we come to the conclusion of our study of Romans 12 I would like to make one final observation about Paul’s quote [...]
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10/21/2020

We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.  (Romans 15:1) As we begin our devotional study of Romans 14:1-15:13 let [...]
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9/30/2020

Being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory.  (2 Corinthians 3:18) Today we begin a study of Romans 13.  I would like to introduce you to the inductive Bible study [...]
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10/22/2020

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope.  (Romans 15:13) As mentioned in recent [...]
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10/1/2020

Love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law.  (Romans 13:8) In our last visit we reviewed what is involved in doing an inductive Bible study [...]
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10/23/2020

The Root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations.  (Romans:15:12) In our last visit we studied what Paul said about God the Father [...]
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10/2/2020

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities.  (Romans 13:1) Let’s continue with our inductive study of Romans 13.  We’ve observed what was said in the text of the chapter.  [...]
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10/5/2020

Do what is right.  (Romans 13:3) Yesterday we tried to understand Paul’s statement in Romans 13:1-2 that we should submit to those in authority because they are there by God’s [...]
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10/6/2020

He (that is, the government authority) is God’s servant to do you good. (Romans 13:4) Let’s continue trying to understand what Paul wrote concerning our civil responsibilities in Romans 13.  [...]
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10/7/2020

Because of conscience.  (Romans 13:5) In our last study of Romans 13 we considered what actions are legitimate for Christians who live under unjust authorities.  Multitudes of Christians do.  Should [...]
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10/8/2020

If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.  (Romans 13:7) Paul emphasized in Romans 13:5 that we should live in [...]
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10/9/2020

Let no debt remain outstanding.  (Romans 13:8) Let’s continue our inductive study of Romans 13.  Paul broadens his challenge to “Give everyone what you owe him,” in verse 7, to [...]
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10/12/2020

Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another.  (Romans 13:8) When talking about debt, the challenge of getting out of debt and staying out of [...]
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10/13/2020

Do this, understanding the present time.  (Romans 13:11) We have been doing an inductive study of Romans 13, trying to understand what Paul is saying.  Thus far we’ve seen that [...]
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8/31/2020

If it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.  (Romans 12:8) In our last visit we studied what Paul said in Romans 12:6-8 about spiritual gifts and how to [...]
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9/22/2020

God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.  [...]
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9/1/2020

If it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.  (Romans 12:8) In our last visit we studied what Paul said in Romans 12:6-8 about spiritual gifts and how to [...]
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9/23/2020

Live at peace with everyone.  (Romans 12:18) The instructions Paul gives in Romans 12 get tougher with each new verse.  We have seen how our spiritual gifts and love play [...]
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9/2/2020

As I have loved you, so you must love one another.  By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.  (John 13:34-35) As [...]
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9/24/2020

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.  (Romans 12:18) In our last visit we studied the command in Romans 12:18, “If [...]
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9/3/2020

Love must be sincere.  (Romans 12:9) In our last visit I pointed out that in each of the major portions of the Bible where spiritual gifts are mentioned love is [...]
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9/25/2020

If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.  (Romans 12:20) Paul wrote in Romans 12:19: “It is written: ‘It is mine to [...]
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9/4/2020

Love never fails.  (1st Corinthians 13:8) Let me share with you today what I believe genuine love looks like as described in 1st Corinthians 13:4-8. In times of stress love [...]
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9/7/2020

Let those who love the Lord hate evil.  (Psalm 97:10) When our love is sincere we will “Hate what is evil; (and) cling to what is good” (Romans 12:9).  This [...]
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9/8/2020

Cling to what is good.  (Romans 12:9) We are told in Romans 12:9, “Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”  In our last visit we focused on hating [...]
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9/9/2020

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love.  (Romans 12:10) Paul understood well how hard it is to stand up for what is good when standing alone.  That is why [...]
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9/10/2020

Patient in affliction.  (Romans 12:12) In our study today we will look at Romans 12:12 where Paul gives three powerful, succinct statements: “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful [...]
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9/11/2020

Faithful in prayer.  (Romans 12:12) We looked at Romans 12:12 in our last visit: “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”  To persevere in the face of [...]
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9/14/2020

Bless those who persecute you.  (Romans 12:14) We have been amplifying the focus of Romans 12 in recent days.  We identified the focus of the chapter as being, “overcome evil [...]
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9/15/2020

Bless those who persecute you.  (Romans 12:14) We have been amplifying the focus of Romans 12 in recent days.  We identified the focus of the chapter as being, “overcome evil [...]
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9/16/2020

Be willing to associate with people of low position.  (Romans 12:16) As we continue our study of Romans 12 to see how Paul amplifies the topic of grace as a [...]
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9/17/2020

Do not be proud.  Do not be conceited.  (Romans 12:16) In our last visit I shared an experience I had as a young man.  I noticed how a prominent preacher [...]
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9/18/2020

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand.  (1st Peter 5:8) Have you ever heard in a discussion on leadership that if you want to be a winner, “Surround yourself with [...]
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9/21/2020

Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.  (Romans 12:17) We have been studying how we can live the life of grace toward others as described [...]
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8/7/2020

It is by grace you have been saved, through faith.  (Ephesians 28 In our last visit we considered the need to humble ourselves before God and trust in His grace [...]
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8/10/2020

Why are you downcast, O my soul?  Why so disturbed within me?  Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.  (Psalm 42:5). [...]
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8/11/2020

Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. (Psalm 95:6) To this point in considering some applications based on our study of Romans [...]
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8/12/2020

It is good to praise the Lord.  (Psalm 92:1) In our study of Romans 11 we’ve thus far identified a title – The Mystery of God’s Master Plan – and [...]
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8/13/2020

This is your spiritual act of worship.  (Romans 12:1) We closed the last program by summarizing what we learned from our study of Romans 11.  Romans 12, begins the final [...]
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8/14/2020

In view of God’s mercy.  (Romans 12:1) In our last visit we began to look at the final section of the book of Romans.  Romans 12, verses 1-2 are foundational [...]
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8/17/2020

Let’s continue our study of Romans 12:1-2.  In verse 2 the verbs are in the present tense, which means they are to be ongoing.  “Do not (continue to) conform any [...]
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8/18/2020

Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  (Romans 12:2) We’ve seen in our study of Romans 12:1-2 that after making a once for all commitment of our lives to [...]
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8/19/2020

Test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will.  (Romans 12:2) We have been studying Romans 12:1-2 in recent visits.  Paul calls us to make [...]
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8/20/2020

In our last visit we saw according to Romans 12:1-2 that God’s will is good, pleasing and perfect.  God wants us to experience His will every day and throughout our [...]
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8/21/2020

In recent visits we have studied Romans 12:1-2 which is a transitional statement between what Paul taught in the first eleven chapters and the practical applications found in the remaining [...]
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8/24/2020

In our last visit we started a focus and amplify study of Romans 12.  I pointed out that the last half of verse 21 states the focus cogently: “Overcome evil [...]
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8/3/2020

Who has known the mind of the Lord?  Or who has been his counselor? (Romans 11:34) In Romans 11:33 Paul is humbly worshiping God.  “Oh, the depth of the riches [...]
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8/25/2020

Think of yourself with sober judgment.  (Romans 12:3) In our last visit I pointed out that we are to make an honest judgment of how God has gifted us, and [...]
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8/4/2020

To him be the glory forever!  Amen. (Romans 11:36) In recent visits we’ve looked at Paul’s burst of praise and humble worship expressed at the close of Romans 11.  Let’s [...]
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8/26/2020

In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.  (Romans 12:5) Paul practiced what he preached in Romans 12.  Notice how he [...]
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8/5/2020

Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.  (1st Chronicles 16:29) We’ve concluded our study of Romans 11 and the doxology with which Paul closes the chapter.  I was [...]
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8/27/2020

In amplifying the focus of Romans 12, overcome evil with good, we’ve seen how God wants us to use our spiritual gifts in serving Him and others. Now we come [...]
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8/6/2020

Cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature.  (Romans 11:24) We’ve been studying Romans 11 for some time now.  It’s time for us to consider some practical [...]
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8/28/2020

Let’s read together what Paul says about spiritual gifts in Romans 12:6-8.  “We have different gifts, according to the grace given us.  If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him [...]
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7/16/2020

In our last visit we began developing an outlining for Romans chapter 11.  Under the title, The Mystery of God’s Master Plan, we listed three main points and began amplifying [...]
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7/17/2020

“At the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace”  (Romans 11:5). As we’ve studied Romans chapter 11 for a number of days now we have developed an outline [...]
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7/20/2020

“God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind.  Does he speak and then not act?  Does he promise [...]
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7/21/2020

“God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable”  (Romans 11:29).   In our last visit we concluded by making the point that God isn’t through with Israel as a nation yet.  He [...]
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7/22/2020

“Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in”  (Romans 11:19). In our last visit we saw in Romans chapter 11 that when the Israelites rejected the Gospel [...]
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7/23/2020

“Until the full number of the Gentiles has come in”  (Romans 11:25). One of the intriguing aspects of what Paul presents in Romans chapter 11 is the hope that the [...]
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7/24/2020

“At the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace”  (Romans 11:5). In recent visits we’ve focused on God’s dealings with the Israelites and the Gentiles as seen in [...]
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7/27/2020

“From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise”  (Matthew 21:16). We’ve been working our way through the theological maze of Romans 11.  Every time you think you [...]
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7/6/2020

In our last visit we actually transitioned from proclamation to personal response as seen in Romans 10.  We’ve been amplifying the focus of this chapter, the journey of those who [...]
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7/28/2020

“When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead”  (Revelation 1:17). We have been working on an outline of Romans chapter 11 for a while and now [...]
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7/7/2020

“I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me”  (Romans 10:20). In recent visits we’ve looked in Romans 10 at the journey of those who believe.  We’ve focused [...]
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7/29/2020

God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24) In our last visit I shared with you one of the most moving, beautiful and [...]
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7/8/2020

“Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth”  (2nd Timothy 2:15 KJV). I pointed out as we [...]
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7/30/2020

The Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him.  (Habakkuk 2:20) I shared my experience of Biblical worship which had some similarities to what [...]
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7/9/2020

“The mystery made known to me by revelation”  (Ephesians 3:3). As I mentioned in our last visit the title I gave for Romans 9-11 was, The Sovereign Rule of God [...]
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7/31/2020

Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!  (Romans 11:33) This is how Paul expresses his worship of God.  Being infinite the riches of the [...]
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7/10/2020

“To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!  Amen”  (Ephesians 3:21). As we began our study of Romans 11 we [...]
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7/13/2020

“I will harden Pharaoh’s heart”  (Exodus 7:3).  “Pharaoh…hardened his heart”  (Exodus 8:15). As we continue to do a chapter study of Romans 11 let’s focus on finding some cross references that [...]
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7/14/2020

When doing a study like we’ve been doing in Romans 11 you will no doubt run into some questions or problems.  Or you might think of an issue someone else [...]
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7/15/2020

During the past week we have been doing a study of Romans 11.  Thus far we’ve given the chapter a title, chosen a key verse, developed a statement that captures [...]
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6/24/2020

“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”  (Romans 10:15). After wrestling in Romans 9 with the role of God’s sovereignty in redemption, Paul addresses some issues [...]
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6/25/2020

“They are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge”  (Romans 10:2). In our last visit we began doing a focus and amplify study of Romans 10.  [...]
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6/26/2020

In our last visit we began looking at some of the problems Paul describes in Romans 10 that cause people to resist the gospel.  He shares his heart concern and [...]
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6/29/2020

“My heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved”  (Romans 10:1). We’ve been studying the problems that hinder faith described in Paul’s letter [...]
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6/8/2020

As we saw in our last visit, living under the control of the Holy Spirit is how a life full of blessing is experienced personally and expressed purposefully toward others.  [...]
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6/30/2020

In our study of Romans 10 we have been amplifying the focus of the chapter: The journey of those who believe.  As we amplified this focus we have seen there [...]
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6/9/2020

It’s interesting to study Paul’s teaching about all of creation in Romans 8 as part of our powerful potential and ultimate hope as Christians.  His teaching is based on what [...]
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7/1/2020

Some people are drawn to God by what they see in the beauty, order and majesty of His creation.  This is part of the proclamation God uses to confront people [...]
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6/10/2020

As we continue our study of the book of Romans in the New Testament we now come to what might be called a parenthetical interlude.  In this section of Romans, [...]
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7/2/2020

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved”  (Joel 2:32).  Let’s look again at Paul’s argument in Romans 10:14-15.  When God sends one of His own [...]
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6/11/2020

In our last visit I suggested we reflect on what Paul shared about his passion for his Israelite brothers.  Listen to chapter 9:1-4, “I speak the truth in Christ – [...]
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7/3/2020

We’ve been studying what Paul wrote in Romans 10:14-15 about the process of reaching the lost through the proclamation of the good news.  In our last study we noted a [...]
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6/12/2020

In our last visit we considered the Apostle’s passion for his brothers, described in Romans 9:1-4.  He said he was willing to forfeit his own relationship with Christ, if that [...]
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6/15/2020

As I read and reflected on Romans, chapters 9-11, I felt these chapters could be outlined under this title: The Sovereign Rule of God in Redemption.  The outline would show [...]
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6/16/2020

As we continue our study of Romans 9-11 let’s focus on God’s sovereign activity in electing some to salvation in chapter 9.  To many this is difficult truth to grasp [...]
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6/17/2020

In our last visit we began looking at what Paul said in Romans 9 about what won’t work in the faith relationship and righteousness that is experienced in salvation.  Privilege [...]
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6/18/2020

In recent visits we’ve seen the futility of seeking a relationship with God on our own terms.   In Romans 9 Paul explains how some, through believing, enter into a relationship [...]
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6/19/2020

In our last visit we discovered, according to Romans 9, if you are a believer and have a personal relationship with God and are declared righteous, it’s because of God’s [...]
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6/22/2020

In our study of Romans 9 we’ve seen that God is sovereign in bringing His redemption to whomever He will.  We have no right to argue with this.  We can [...]
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6/23/2020

  If you’ve found it difficult to process and accept what Paul says in Romans 9 about the Sovereign Rule of God in Redemption, then think of how hard it [...]
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5/11/2020

As we continue to study Romans 8 let’s ask: What does it teach us about God the Son?  It says God sent “his own Son in the likeness of sinful [...]
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6/2/2020

I like what Paul says in Romans 8:15, “you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship.  And [...]
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5/12/2020

Let’s focus on two statements in our study of Jesus Christ.  Romans 8:32 says, God “did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all.”  Philippians 2:6 [...]
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6/3/2020

In our last visit we considered the blessing of being God’s children once we trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior.  Romans 8:17 adds to this relationship the assurance that [...]
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5/13/2020

Jesus said, “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever – the Spirit of truth”  (John 14:16-17).  As we continue our [...]
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6/4/2020

In our last visit we considered what often happens when you honor the name of Jesus.  His name is a stumbling stone to some and a rock of offense to [...]
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5/14/2020

In our study of Jesus Christ in Romans 8 we’ve seen that He died for our sins.  In His death He dealt with the sin problem, thus freeing us from [...]
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6/5/2020

As we continue our study of Romans 8, let’s look at what is possible when the Holy Spirit is in control of our lives.  He will lead us, testify with [...]
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5/15/2020

What does the title “firstborn” among many brothers in Romans 8:29 signify?  Some think it refers to Jesus as the first to experience resurrection into the eternal state.  Though that’s [...]
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5/18/2020

As we’ve studied what Paul teaches about Jesus Christ in Romans 8 we found that he is our elder brother, the firstborn, and as such, a fellow heir.  Listen to [...]
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5/19/2020

As we continue our study of Romans 8, let’s consider the phrase in verse 17, “share in his glory.”  In eternity past, Jesus Christ, as God the Son, shared with [...]
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5/20/2020

According to Romans 8 Jesus Christ’s present ministry for the believer is twofold.  He indwells us and He intercedes for us.  One of the great themes of Paul’s epistles is [...]
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5/21/2020

  When Paul builds his case for our encouragement in Romans 8 he presents a question: “Who is he that condemns?”  Often, when seeking to grow as a Christian we [...]
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5/22/2020

Paul closes Romans 8 by presenting his most powerful truth about Jesus Christ: His love.  He asks: “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” (verse 32).  Before he’s [...]
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5/25/2020

As I mentioned when we started studying Romans 8 it is one of the most profound chapters in the Bible.  We’ve studied what it says about God the Father and [...]
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5/26/2020

Because of what Jesus Christ did on the cross, anyone who trusts in Him has the Holy Spirit living in them.  His presence brings into action a new law, the [...]
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5/27/2020

In the battle that rages in most believers between the law of the mind and the law of sin the Holy Spirit wants to play a significant role.  Until our [...]
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5/28/2020

We’ve been studying in Romans 8 what Paul teaches about God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.  Now consider what Paul says about man in this [...]
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5/29/2020

  In our last visit we considered what Paul said in Romans 8 about man in his unsaved state.  In spite of our sinful state God loves us enough to [...]
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6/1/2020

In our last visit we studied how an unsaved person experiences salvation and sanctification.  What Paul promised in Romans 8:29-30 was from eternity past established by God, yet experienced by [...]
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4/17/2020

Building on what Paul said in the beginning of Romans 6 about baptism and what it signified, he talks about the new life that God gives to those who trust [...]
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4/20/2020

As we continue studying Romans 6 notice verse 19; “I put this in human terms because you are weak in your natural selves.”  Paul is explaining to believers the positional [...]
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4/21/2020

In our last visit we saw in Romans 6 that to experience the positional reality of being dead to sin but alive to God there are some negative steps you [...]
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4/22/2020

Let me summarize what Paul says in Romans 6.  It is a pivotal chapter in his presentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which can be put in one word, [...]
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4/23/2020

Paul says a fair amount in the book of Romans about the law of God.  He declared the law can’t save you.  That is, none of us can keep the [...]
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4/24/2020

In Romans 7 Paul encourages us to be committed or married to the resurrected Christ, not to Jesus Christ’s earthy example.  If you try to follow Jesus Christ’s example you’ll [...]
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4/27/2020

Paul raises another question about the law of God in Romans 7:7 – “What shall we say, then?  Is the law sin?”  That question was raised because of what he [...]
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4/28/2020

I mentioned in our last visit that Paul was “a happy sinner.”  In Romans 7:9, Paul says, “Once I was alive apart from law.”  Eugene Peterson put it this way [...]
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4/29/2020

As we work our way through Romans 7 we’ll no doubt identify with verse 14: “We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave [...]
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4/30/2020

In our last visit we noted how the insight word “I,” found 25 times in Romans 7:14-27, helps us understand the struggle Paul was experiencing.  The problem is self, self-effort, [...]
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5/1/2020

In our last visit we found there’s a wonderful answer to Paul’s agonizing cry in Romans 7:24, “What a wretched man I am!  Who will rescue me from this body [...]
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5/4/2020

After looking at the practical dynamics in the process of being sanctified in Romans 7, Paul concluded that there is only One, Jesus Christ our Lord, who could rescue him [...]
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4/13/2020

Have you ever wanted to live a new life?  Paul says that “we too may live a new life” in Romans 6:4.  Paul ends chapter 5 by affirming that where [...]
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5/5/2020

In my mind Romans 8 is one of the most important chapters in the whole Bible.  It is packed with truth, which, if understood and applied, will make all the [...]
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4/14/2020

In our last visit we considered “our freedom not to sin” as presented by Paul in Romans 6.  I picture this in a way I can readily relate to.  I [...]
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5/6/2020

Today let’s consider what Paul teaches about God the Father in Romans 8: First, God’s plan determined.  Verses 29-30 say, “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed [...]
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4/15/2020

In our study of Romans we’ve looked at Sin and Salvation.  Now let’s consider the 3rd main point in Romans: Sanctification.  This is the process of growing into the likeness [...]
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5/7/2020

    “The Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:6).  In our last visit we considered what Paul said in Romans 8 about God’s plan [...]
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4/16/2020

In our last visit we began looking at what is said in Romans about sanctification.  That is, the process of becoming more like Jesus Christ once we’ve been saved by [...]
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5/8/2020

Considering what Paul taught about God the Father in Romans 8 we now come to the third point: God’s plan delighted in. In Romans 8:14, through the ministry of the [...]
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3/26/2020

Before continuing our study on faith let me share how God used some of what I shared yesterday about spreading His Word.  Once on a flight from Prague to Zagreb [...]
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3/27/2020

Today I’d like to start looking at the final point in our study of the topic of faith in Romans 3:21-6:23.  What is the outcome of faith – What happens [...]
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3/30/2020

Let’s continue reflecting on the blessing that comes to one who believes in God.  Notice Romans 3:24: “justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ.”  [...]
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3/31/2020

We’ve been looking at the outcome of putting faith in Jesus Christ as seen in Romans 3:21-6:23.  Today let’s focus on forgiveness.  Romans 4:6: indicates that “David says the same [...]
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4/1/2020

Did you know you can become an heir of the promise given to Abraham and his offspring?  That’s right.  God made a promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:2-3, that He [...]
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4/2/2020

In our study of the outcome of faith we now turn to Romans 5.  Notice the phrases, “we have,” mentioned 5 times in 11 verses, and “we rejoice,” three times.  [...]
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4/3/2020

In our last visit we reflected on the privilege and assurance of being justified through faith in Jesus Christ.  We have peace with God and a standing “grace relationship” with [...]
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4/6/2020

We concluded our last visit referring to Romans 5:5, “hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he [...]
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3/16/2020

Before continuing our study of the book of Romans I’d like to share a lesson I learned from reading about the ministry of Dr. R. A. Torrey.  He was a [...]
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4/7/2020

I hope as we work our way through the book of Romans you’re being blessed by all God wants to do in your life.  Paul explains, all that we have [...]
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3/17/2020

We’ve studied the first main point in Romans under the title: The Key to Abundant Living.  Now let’s amplify the second main point: The Available Provision of Salvation.  Paul begins [...]
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4/8/2020

In the last half of Romans 5 Paul presents the contrast between the first Adam and the second Adam, Jesus Christ.  The dreadful consequences of the sin of the first [...]
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3/18/2020

I mentioned in our last visit, we are now ready to study the next section of the book of Romans. The first section was the bad news – we are all [...]
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4/9/2020

Paul is leading up to a grand conclusion to his second point in the book of Romans; God’s provision of salvation.  He has shown what faith is and how it [...]
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3/19/2020

Let’s continue our study of the topic of faith as found in Romans 3:21-6:23.  If you collect what is said about faith in this section and identify what each reference [...]
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4/10/2020

It is fitting to affirm the Apostle Paul’s statement this Easter Weekend: “What I received I passed on to you as of first importance; that Christ died for our sins [...]
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3/20/2020

In our last visit we found that the essence of faith as presented in Romans 3:21-6:23 is to accept that what God promises He has the power to do and [...]
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3/23/2020

In our last visit we found that the action of faith as found in Romans 3:21-6:23 is seen in contrast to our efforts at trying to live the Christian life.   [...]
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3/24/2020

In recent visits we considered the essence and action of faith as seen in Romans 3:21-6:23.  Today let’s look at the object of faith – what and in whom we [...]
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3/25/2020

There is a final point related to the object of our faith that’s important for us to consider.  Romans 6:17 says, “You wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which [...]
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3/4/2020

As we continue to study the devastating moral regression predicted in Romans 1 when men suppress the truth they have about God, there is a troubling phrase found in verses [...]
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3/5/2020

As I prepared this study of Romans 1:18-31 and reflected on the fate of those who suppress the truth they have about God, I was convicted on two accounts.   [...]
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3/6/2020

After Paul clearly presented his case for pagans being lost, without excuse, he tackled the culpability of the religious person who might agree wholeheartedly with his assessment of the pagans. [...]
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3/9/2020

If you were to select a key verse for Romans 2 it likely would be verse 11, “God does not show favoritism.”    Paul leads up to this verse by making [...]
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2/17/2020

We’ve been considering Paul’s legacy, especially the legacy he left us through the letters he wrote.  We’ll spend the rest of this year studying his most important book, the book [...]
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3/10/2020

In the last half of Romans 2 Paul presents two hypothetical assumptions claimed by those who are religious. Then he asks some rhetorical questions, and concludes with an affirmation of truth.  [...]
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2/18/2020

“In your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.  Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” [...]
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3/11/2020

Romans 2 began with the affirmation that the religious person has no excuse.  He knows better because he’s received God’s revelation in Scripture, but doesn’t perform any better.  Romans 3 [...]
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2/19/2020

  With our biographical study of the apostle Paul done we’re prepared to study his major written legacy, the book of Romans.  I encourage you to read this book as [...]
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3/12/2020

Paul turns to the revealed Word of God in Romans 3 and concludes that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”  The religious person is no [...]
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2/20/2020

In our last visit we started studying the New Testament book of Romans using the focus and amplify study method.  After reading it I felt the focus should be: The [...]
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3/13/2020

As we wrap up the first devastating point Paul makes in the first three chapters of Romans, here is what we’ve found.  We are without excuse because of both natural [...]
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2/21/2020

  In our last visit we developed an outline for the book of Romans.  Title: The Key to Abundant Living.  Main points: the universal need for salvation; the available provision [...]
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2/24/2020

 As we began our more detailed study of Romans in our last visit we considered Paul’s mission spelled out in the introduction, chapter 1:1-17.  What he says in these verses [...]
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2/25/2020

In our last two visits we discovered what Paul shared in Romans about his mission and message.  It’s clear that both revolved around his Master.  He had no mission or [...]
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2/26/2020

Before we move on from our study of the introduction in Romans take a moment to reflect on those Paul targeted as recipients of this letter.  Romans 1:7 says,“To all [...]
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2/27/2020

In recent days we’ve studied the introduction to the book of Romans. Now we’ll begin to amplify the main points in the book. Paul’s first point in Romans 1:18-3:20, addresses the universal [...]
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2/28/2020

In our last visit we began studying Paul’s first main point in the book of Romans, the universal need of salvation.  All have sinned and come short of God’s glory, [...]
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3/2/2020

In our study today let’s amplify further what Paul says in Romans 1.  Verse 18 says the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against ungodly and wicked men because [...]
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3/3/2020

When men suppress the self-evident truth about God, through what God created, the consequences come in devastating waves.  If you refuse to bow before God and worship Him He will [...]
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1/20/2020

As Paul pressed forward on his second missionary journey he ran into some obstacles.  He “and his companions (were) kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the [...]
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2/11/2020

Paul’s prison epistles are profound expressions of truth, compassion and challenge.  They’re like beautiful flowers growing and blooming in a dismal garbage dump, dug up, potted and sent to brighten [...]
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1/21/2020

As mentioned in our last visit, though hindered from reaching some regions, there was no indication this kept him from pressing on with his mission.  Eventually he landed in Troas.  [...]
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2/12/2020

Paul wrote in Philippians 3:10, “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.”  [...]
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1/22/2020

As mentioned in our last visit Paul and his team ran into some obstacles during the early stages of his second missionary journey.  Once they saw their first converts in [...]
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2/13/2020

Paul wrote this in the book of Philemon while a prisoner in Rome: “Confident… that you will do even more than I ask” (Philemon 21).  Philemon was a wealthy man [...]
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1/23/2020

  It’s encouraging to see Paul continuing to grow as he pressed on to take the Gospel to people who had never heard.  He began delegating responsibilities to teammates.  But [...]
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2/14/2020

After Paul was released from his first imprisonment in Rome it’s not clear where he went to minister.  Some think he tried to fulfill his longtime plan of reaching Spain, [...]
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1/24/2020

Paul concluded his visit to Athens with a powerful message to the Council which drew the following response: “a few men became followers of Paul and believed.  Among them was [...]
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1/27/2020

As  seen in our last visit, with the encouragement of faithful friends and supporters, as well as teammates, Paul ministered for an extended period of time in Corinth. When God gave [...]
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1/28/2020

   In our last visit we began to see a new strategy develop in the mind and heart of Paul.  He had seen churches grow and flourish in rural areas [...]
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1/29/2020

As mentioned in our last visit, Paul refined his strategy by focusing his attention on major cities.  If strong churches were planted in major cities like Corinth, Ephesus or Rome, [...]
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1/30/2020

In our last visit I concluded that Paul’s strategy of focusing on major cities worked well so long as the churches stayed healthy.  That’s why he worked so hard trying [...]
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1/31/2020

As we’ve seen Paul’s mission strategy in our biographical study of his life there is one final piece I’d like to focus on.  Paul poured a lot of time into [...]
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2/3/2020

As we continue our biographical study of the life of Paul the Apostle we now come to the last point in our outline: his legacy.  What was the lasting impact [...]
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2/4/2020

The ministry of reproducing yourself to extend your ministry through others is a major legacy of the apostle Paul.  He penned the famous words in 2nd Timothy, 2:2, “The things [...]
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2/5/2020

  It’s hard to fully comprehend the legacy of the apostle Paul.  Probably the best way to understand it is to read his 13 letters in the New Testament.  They [...]
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2/6/2020

Continuing our study of the life of Paul let’s expand the point that the books he wrote provide the long term legacy of his life.  The two books he wrote [...]
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2/7/2020

On Paul’s 3rd Missionary journey he wrote two books to the church at Corinth.  We saw in a recent study the Corinthian church was the result of Paul’s year and [...]
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2/10/2020

In our last visit I made reference to 1st Corinthians 13, what I might call Paul’s “legacy of love.”  In officiating at my daughter’s wedding I said the following based [...]
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1/1/2020

I am excited about the study adventure I’m beginning with you today. Let me introduce you during the first weeks of this year to the apostle Paul, then I’ll take the [...]
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1/2/2020

In our last visit I began to introduce you to the apostle Paul by starting a biographical study of his life. There are three steps in a biographical study: collect information [...]
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1/3/2020

If you’ve started reading in the book of Acts about the life of Saul, better known as Paul the apostle, I’m sure you’ve noted he was an unusual man. Start [...]
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1/6/2020

In our last visit we amplified the information gathered about the apostle Paul before his conversion experience on the road to Damascus as recorded in Acts 9.  Most people don’t [...]
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1/7/2020

We’ve been looking at Paul’s life pre-conversion.  Many people touched his life as he violently went around “breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples” (Acts 9:1).  Only God knows [...]
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1/8/2020

In our last visit we identified some who had an influence in Paul’s life.  Acts 9 describes how Ananias was told by God to pray over Paul so he would [...]
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1/9/2020

There are some things we can learn from others; other things we can learn by our own study; but some things you will only learn from God through the Holy [...]
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1/10/2020

We’ve been looking in our biographical study of the life of Paul at how God used a variety of people to bring Paul to trust in Jesus Christ and grow [...]
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1/13/2020

Earlier in our biographical study of Paul’s life I suggested another outline from the one we’ve been using.  All we’ve studied thus far could be placed under the first point [...]
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1/14/2020

As mentioned in our last visit I raised the question: were Barnabas and Paul ready to launch out on a second missionary journey.  According to Acts 15:36-41 Paul suggested to [...]
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1/15/2020

In our last visit we discussed the heated blow up Paul and Barnabas had as they contemplated a second missionary trip.  I suggested, had they followed the pattern seen in [...]
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1/16/2020

One key to growing in our walk with God is to learn from our experiences.  Paul didn’t want to take Mark on the second missionary journey because he deserted them [...]
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1/17/2020

Over the years Paul never forgot the lesson he learned from Barnabas.  It was hard earned.  He had to humbly acknowledge the wisdom of Barnabas to give Mark another chance [...]
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12/27/2018

We’ve looked at some of what the book of Revelation says about heaven.  Let’s now look at what it says about hell.  God prepared hell for the Devil and the [...]
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12/28/2018

The book of Revelation closes with a repeated promise, “Behold, I am coming soon!” followed, with the promise, “Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy in this [...]
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12/31/2018

As we come to the end of this two year journey of reading and studying through the whole Bible, and as we anticipate the opportunities and challenges of the New [...]
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12/25/2018

As we’ve reflected on the names and descriptions of Jesus Christ in the book of Revelation it’s clear, He received the answer to His prayer in John 17:5, “Now, Father, [...]
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12/26/2018

Christmas is a time to remember the gift of eternal life offered to us through Jesus Christ. He is God’s love gift to us.  When we receive Him as our [...]
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12/6/2018

Let me read Revelation 1:13-16, “Someone like a son of man, dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest.  His head [...]
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12/7/2018

When John saw the glorified Christ, as described in Revelation 1:13-16, it says in verse 17, he fell at his feet as though dead.  This is not surprising when you [...]
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12/10/2018

In our study of the various descriptions of Jesus Christ in the book of Revelation you’ll find He is aware of what is going on in the church and her [...]
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12/11/2018

The focal point of the Book of Revelation is Jesus Christ.  In our previous studies we’ve looked at some titles and descriptions of Jesus in the book of Revelation.  To [...]
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12/12/2018

Today we’ll look at Christ’s titles in Revelation 3:7-13 related to the church of Philadelphia.  He is the holy and true one who holds the key of David.  When an [...]
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12/13/2018

We’ve been looking at how Jesus identifies Himself in the letters to the seven churches of Revelation 2 & 3.  In 3:14 He is “the Amen, the faithful and true [...]
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12/14/2018

As we read on in Revelation we find Jesus Christ is referred to as “The Lamb” in chapter 5 verse 6.  This title is familiar to Jewish believers because of [...]
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12/17/2018

In our last visit we began a study of the references to the Lamb of God in the book of Revelation.  We considered the sacrifice, sovereignty and marriage supper of [...]
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12/18/2018

In our study of the Lamb there were three verses in the book of Revelation that made reference to the blood of the Lamb.  In 5:9 the heavenly chorus declared, [...]
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11/27/2018

Reflecting on John’s 3rd letter I concluded an appropriate title for the book would be, Against Self-Love.  It’s true, there is a healthy love of self, for Jesus Christ said [...]
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12/19/2018

In our last study we considered the power of the blood of the Lamb to overcome the Devil.  Who is this Devil?  Revelation 12:9 describes him as the great dragon, [...]
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11/28/2018

Spurgeon once warned, “Error oft rides to its deadly work on the back of truth.”  As you read the book of Jude you’ll see how this happens within a church [...]
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12/20/2018

The book of Revelation is filled with statements of faith as well as declarations of judgement, followed by actual, dreadful judgments.  There’s social upheaval beyond description.  The suffering of people [...]
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11/29/2018

In doing a focus and amplify study of the book of Jude I determined the focus was, Facing forces opposing Christianity.  The first half of the book identifies forces the [...]
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12/21/2018

Revelation chapter 12 describes a fascinating interlude in the events during the tribulation.  A pregnant woman cries out in pain as she is about to give birth.  Then an enormous [...]
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11/30/2018

You must know the man who said, “We shall go on to the end…we shall never surrender,” before you can really understand England’s part in World War II.  It was [...]
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12/24/2018

In our last visit we studied what I called the Cosmic Christmas story found in Revelation 12.  You’ll recall when Jesus was born there were wise men from the east [...]
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12/3/2018

The last book of the Bible is best identified by the opening words, “The revelation of Jesus Christ.”  If you find the book hard to understand I’d encourage you to [...]
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12/4/2018

As we read through the book of Revelation, we’ll try to note every reference to Jesus Christ.  Ask God for a deeper insight into the person of Jesus Christ.  In [...]
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11/12/2018

If you aspire to leadership in your church Peter shares some important things as a leader to leaders in 1st Peter 5:1-8.  Listen to what he says.  Be shepherds who [...]
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11/13/2018

Robert Moffat understood the reason for the Savior’s longsuffering.  He pointed out, “We have all eternity to celebrate our victories, but only one short hour before sunset in which to [...]
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11/14/2018

I noticed when reading 1st and 2nd Peter the frequent references to the Bible.  I counted about 20 times. As I thought about organizing this material on the Bible I [...]
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11/15/2018

I once read that Plato, the Greek philosopher, said, “We must lay hold of the best human opinion in order that borne by it as on a raft, we may [...]
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11/19/2018

We come now, in our project of reading through the Bible by the end of this year, to three Epistles that John the apostle wrote late in the first century.  [...]
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11/20/2018

If you started reading 1st John you’ve no doubt noticed John refers to “eternal life” or “life” quite often in this letter.  If you collected each reference where “eternal life” [...]
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10/29/2018

As we come to the close of the book of Hebrews let’s pause and consider the benediction found in chapter 13 verses 20-22.  Ask, What does this benediction teach us [...]
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11/21/2018

In our last visit we looked at 1st John in the New Testament and studied what John said about eternal life.  We saw Jesus Christ as the personification of eternal [...]
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10/30/2018

In our project of reading through the Bible we now come to the book of James.  As you read James you’ll recognize its similarity to Proverbs in the Old Testament [...]
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11/22/2018

In our last two visits we’ve studied what John says about eternal life in 1st John.  If we believe in Jesus Christ as our Savior, God wants us to know [...]
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10/31/2018

In our last visit we introduced the book of James.  Today let’s begin a biographical study of the author.  To do this collect all the references to him in the [...]
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11/23/2018

If you’ve been reading 1st John with us, did you notice what he says in chapter 3:21-22, “Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before [...]
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11/1/2018

In our last visit we were doing a biographical study of James, the author of the epistle named after him.  We first collected information about him.  To help you, use [...]
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11/26/2018

As we come to the last few books of the Bible in our reading project we will be covering some of the shortest books in the Bible.  The title I [...]
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11/2/2018

It’s been said, “What you are speaks so loud I can’t hear what you’re saying.”  It’s also true, “What you say and how you say it reveals more about your [...]
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11/5/2018

Before concluding our study of James let’s do a topical study of patience.  James discussed it in James 1:3-4 and 5:7-11.  All of us struggle with patience, yet it’s essential [...]
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11/6/2018

In our project of reading through the Bible by the end of this year we come to the first of two books written by the Apostle Peter.  He experienced much [...]
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11/7/2018

If you are a Christian do you know what your Spiritual gift or gifts are?  Let me share with you from I Peter 4:7-11 a way that might help you [...]
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11/8/2018

In our last visit we found in I Peter 4:7-11 that prayer, love, hospitality and doing what you can to help meet needs and hurts in the lives you encounter [...]
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11/9/2018

We often say, “Life is full of surprises,” especially when facing an unexpected bad event.  But the Apostle Peter says in 1 Peter 4:12, do “not be surprised at the [...]
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10/19/2018

There are a number of statements about God’s Word made in Hebrews 4 and 5. 4:12 says, “the word of God is living and active.  Sharper than any double edged [...]
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10/22/2018

When facing trials and temptations we overcome by keeping in mind what is stated in Hebrews 4:14-16.  Let’s do a focus and amplify study of these verses.  The focus is; [...]
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10/1/2018

As we continue reading through the Bible by the end of this year we come now to 1st Timothy.  Read a couple of chapters each day.  When I read 1st [...]
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10/23/2018

There’s so much in the book of Hebrews I’d like to touch on.  Our time, however, doesn’t allow for all of it.  For example, chapter 7 speaks of the superiority [...]
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10/2/2018

Do you ever find while reading your Bible that a statement jumps out and grabs your attention?  I watch for such statements.  When I find one, I stop and reflect [...]
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10/24/2018

You’ll notice as you read the book of Hebrews how often the writer encourages you to respond to truth by using two words, "Let us.”  In chapter 10 verses 19-25 [...]
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10/3/2018

In our last visit we studied the impact statement in 1st Timothy 4:16, “Watch your life and doctrine closely.  Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both [...]
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10/25/2018

In our last study I mentioned how the two words, “Let us,” are found throughout the book of Hebrews.  We meditated on them as found in Hebrews 10:19-25.  Let’s now [...]
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10/4/2018

Continuing to read the Epistles in our goal of reading through the Bible by the end of the year, we come to 2nd Timothy.  Paul shares a very important principle [...]
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10/26/2018

As I read Hebrews 13:1-6 a question popped into my mind: “You can count on God – can He count on you?”  God says, “Never will I leave you; never [...]
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10/5/2018

In our last visit we focused on 2nd Timothy 2:2, “The things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also [...]
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10/8/2018

In a church, those in leadership need to look for reliable, faithful participants in their church.  When they find such people they need to enlarge their sphere of experience, to [...]
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10/9/2018

D. L. Moody was once challenged by a friend who said, “The world has yet to see what God can do with a man wholly yielded to God.”  Moody vowed, [...]
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10/10/2018

While reading the book of Titus I noticed Paul has a recurring theme throughout the book: “doing what is good.”  It is mentioned 8 times.  Reflecting on each reference I [...]
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10/11/2018

In our last visit we introduced a recurring theme in the book of Titus: “doing what is good.”  We saw, some are unfit for doing what is good. They need [...]
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10/12/2018

Do you remember the popular slogan used to address the drug problem, “Just say NO”?  The problem most drug addicts had was they were impotent to do that.  For those [...]
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10/15/2018

As we continue reading our way through the remaining books of the Bible before the end of this year keep your heart open for God to speak to you.  Pray [...]
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10/16/2018

Is it not arrogance to say, “Jesus Christ is the Light of the world?”  Or for a Christian to say, “We only have the light”?  Dr. Radhakrishnan, a Hindu philosopher [...]
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10/17/2018

The book of Hebrews emphasizes that Jesus is greater than all who went before Him.  There’s been a significant emphasis on angels in recent years, even in the entertainment industry.  [...]
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10/18/2018

Let me share two impact statements found in Hebrews that I trust will excite you.  The first is Hebrews 2:11, “Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.”  Who does [...]
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9/5/2018

In the introduction to my book, A Call To Responsible Freedom, I point out, you “have been called to a life of responsible freedom.  ‘Responsible Freedom’ is an important concept, [...]
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9/27/2018

In our visit today we’ll see how Paul in 2nd Thessalonians built on what he said in 1st Thessalonians.  Both books refer to the return of Christ.  They emphasize the [...]
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9/6/2018

Today I’d like to do an inductive study of the first 10 verses of Galatians 6.  In this study you answer the questions, What does it say?  What does it [...]
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9/28/2018

I was encouraged by what Paul prayed in 2nd Thessalonians 1:11-12.  Let’s do an inductive study of it.  Start by asking what does it say?  Paul prayed they would walk [...]
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9/7/2018

A young, non-believing wife said to me. “My husband’s life has been changed quite drastically since he received Jesus Christ as his Savior.  And I like him far more as [...]
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9/10/2018

Studying what Paul writes about prayer in the book of Ephesians will help you in your prayer life.  His heart concern for the Ephesians is evident in chapters 1:15-23 and [...]
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9/11/2018

As I read the book of Ephesians again in preparation for this program I noticed something I had not seen before, in spite of the many times I studied it.  [...]
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9/12/2018

As I mentioned when introducing the book of Ephesians, its theme is spiritual loveliness.  But the loveliness God wants to create in and through us is a loveliness that blooms, [...]
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9/13/2018

Today let’s consider the book of Philippians.  “Living in Christ” is the theme I chose for this book.  Listen to Philippians chapter 3:10 where Paul’s prayer was, “That I may [...]
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9/14/2018

While reading Philippians you’ll notice Paul mentions “joy” or “rejoice” about 10 times.  So, let’s do a topical study on Joy as found in Philippians.   First, collect all the [...]
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9/17/2018

  In our last visit we began a topical study of “Joy” as found in the book of Philippians. We collected all the references on the topic and wrote down [...]
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9/18/2018

As we continue reading through the Bible by the end of this year we now come to Colossians.  Bobby Richards, famous American athlete, understood the main practical principle of Colossians [...]
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9/19/2018

Let’s study Paul’s prayer in Colossians 1:3-12.  In verses 3-8 Paul lists things about the Colossian Christians he thanks God for: their faith, love, hope, spiritual growth and fruit, and [...]
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9/20/2018

In our last visit we studied Paul’s prayer found in Colossians 1:3-12.  Today let’s look at the life of Epaphras, mentioned twice in Colossians and in Philemon 23.  Colossians 1:7 [...]
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9/21/2018

I trust you’re enjoying slowing down in our reading project in order to concentrate more thoroughly on what Paul said in his letters.  Today we introduce the book of 1 [...]
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9/24/2018

Let’s do a focus and amplify study of 1st Thessalonians 2.  The focus is, A Passion and Plan for Discipling Others.  Whatever you’ve experienced in the past, dare to go [...]
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9/3/2018

In our reading of the New Testament, we’re now at the book of Galatians—a book that emphasizes spiritual liberty.  Take time to read through the book, one chapter per day.  [...]
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9/25/2018

In our last visit we identified the focus of 1st Thessalonians 2 as a passion and plan for discipling others.  We amplified this focus by describing Paul’s approach in discipling [...]
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9/4/2018

I’ve often been challenged by what Paul shares about an experience he had in Jerusalem.  Using 6 interrogatives, let’s study Galatians 2:1-10.  In answer to the question, Who? you have [...]
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9/26/2018

  Many ask the question “Why?” in the face of tragedy and death.  Others question, “What happens to the deceased?”  Paul addresses these questions in 1st Thessalonians 4:13-18.  To study [...]
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8/14/2018

In 1st Corinthians chapter 13 Paul placed the importance of love in the midst of a discussion about exercising spiritual gifts.  He points out in 1 Corinthians 12 that the [...]
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8/15/2018

In our last visit we discussed how to understand spiritual gifts and their expression or use in and through the church as described in 1st Corinthians 12.  The harmony resulting [...]
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8/16/2018

In our last few visits we’ve been studying what is found in 1st Corinthians 12&13 regarding spiritual gifts and their place in the life and ministry of the church.  Chapter [...]
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8/17/2018

Is the New Testament authentic and trustworthy?  I believe it is.  I recently read that 1st Corinthians 15:3-5 was part of a verbal creed dating back to within a few [...]
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8/20/2018

Today let’s do a chapter study of 1 Corinthians 15.  The title I gave it: He lives, Believe it!  I chose verse 20 as the key verse; “Christ has indeed [...]
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8/21/2018

Chaplain Peter Marshall once said, “It is better to fail in a cause that will ultimately succeed, than to succeed in a cause that will ultimately fail.”  These words present [...]
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8/22/2018

If you’re feeling down and discouraged let me encourage you to reflect with me on 2 Corinthians 1:8-11.  Paul says he is almost despairing of life.  How did he cope [...]
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8/23/2018

Let’s look at an insight word found in 2 Corinthians 3:18.  Paul described the difference between the letter of the law and the ministry of the Holy Spirit.  He concludes [...]
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8/24/2018

As you read 2 Corinthians, you’ll notice in chapter 5 some things that were going on in the life of Paul as he sought to be an ambassador for Jesus [...]
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8/27/2018

Would you allow me to share something of great importance with you in the next few moments?  Many of you listen to this program daily.  Maybe you’ve never heard this [...]
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8/6/2018

Today we move on to the next book in our project of reading through the Bible by the end of this year.  I trust you benefited greatly from our study [...]
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8/28/2018

The Bible has much to say about money.  In 2 Corinthians 8 & 9 Paul teaches on stewardship.  Let’s do a “4S” or four step study of these chapters. First [...]
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8/7/2018

In 1 Corinthians 2:3 Paul described what he felt when he first went to Corinth: “I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling.”  Feeling that way [...]
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8/29/2018

We began a “4S” or 4 step study of stewardship based on 2 Corinthians 8&9 in our last visit.  Let’s continue to spread out what we find in these chapters.  [...]
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8/8/2018

There are some things you really need to know if you want to honor God and live for His glory.  That statement is based on 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, “Do you [...]
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8/30/2018

In our last few visits we’ve been doing a “4S” or 4 steps study of 2 Corinthians 8 & 9 on the subject of stewardship.  After spreading out the information [...]
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8/9/2018

Do you have a life’s verse?  I’ve talked to a lot of people who have identified one verse that seems to be deeply imbedded into their hearts and minds.  What [...]
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8/31/2018

Listen to the words in 2 Corinthians 13:5, “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.  Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you?  [...]
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8/10/2018

I still remember one of the neatest experiences in Bible study I ever had.  I was studying 1st Corinthians and came to the well-known love chapter, chapter 13.  I had [...]
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8/13/2018

Some years ago, while preparing some comments for my daughter’s wedding, I put together some thoughts based on 1st Corinthians 13:4-8.  Here they are: “You have chosen to get married [...]
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7/23/2018

As we continue reading the book of Romans we’ll be able to amplify the focus of Romans and the 5 main points.  Let’s begin by amplifying the first main point: [...]
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7/24/2018

In our last visit we amplified the first main point under the focus of Romans: The Key to Abundant Living.  Now let’s amplify the second main point: The Available Provision [...]
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7/25/2018

In recent studies we started to amplify our outline of Romans to enhance our understanding of the book.  The focus of Romans is: The Key to Abundant Living.  The first [...]
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7/26/2018

In previous visits we identified the focus of the book of Romans as: The Key to Abundant Living.  Today let’s consider the third point that amplifies this focus: The potential [...]
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7/27/2018

In our focus and amplify study of the book of Romans we come today to chapters 9-11 where Paul gives an historical perspective to salvation.  In chapter 9 he explains [...]
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7/30/2018

Today let’s look at the last main point that amplifies the focus of the book of Romans: the practical outworking of salvation, found in chapters 12-16.  Paul begins this section [...]
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7/31/2018

In our last visit we introduced the last main point in the book of Romans, the practical outworking of salvation.  Now let’s amplify further by seeing what Paul says in [...]
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7/9/2018

        Today let’s look at the book of Haggai.  I’ve titled it: “The First, First”!  It’s always wise to put first things first.  “Seek first the kingdom  [...]
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8/1/2018

Let’s look closer at Romans 15:14-32.  Paul shares 3 management principles all Christians should keep in mind.  The first, how to maintain perspective in our lives.  Paul knew what he [...]
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7/10/2018

As we continue reading through the Bible, today we’ll look at Zechariah where the prophet gives a propelling promise.  Like Haggai, he was used of God to encourage the Israelites [...]
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8/2/2018

In our last visit we saw in Romans 15 how Paul maintained perspective in his life and ministry.  Today let’s see how he maintained discipline to do what God wanted [...]
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7/11/2018

There are two powerful statements found in Zechariah 4:6 and 10.  I call them, Impact Statements! “‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.”  [...]
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8/3/2018

In recent visits we saw in Romans 15:14-33 how Paul maintained perspective and discipline in his life and ministry.  In those same verses you can discover how he maintained spiritual [...]
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7/12/2018

Fulfilled prophecy has always intrigued me and encouraged my faith in God and His word.  Zechariah makes some statements that uniquely point to Jesus Christ and some experiences He had [...]
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7/13/2018

In today’s study we’ll look at the last of the minor prophets.  Malachi gives a future focus for life.  It’s been said, “Only one life ‘twill soon be past; only [...]
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7/17/2018

We’re coming down the stretch now in our project of reading through the Bible by the end of this year.  We’ve completed the Old Testament, the Gospels and Acts of [...]
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7/18/2018

We begin our reading and study of the Epistles in the New Testament with the book of Romans.  It was St. Augustine who long ago said, “You have made us [...]
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7/19/2018

In our last visit we briefly introduced the important N.T. book of Romans, written by Paul.  We’ve done focus and amplify studies in the past.  Since Romans is such an [...]
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7/20/2018

We’ve started a focus and amplify study of the book of Romans.  The focus we identified was: The Key to Abundant Living.  In the introduction Paul said the key to [...]
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6/28/2018

When teaching the book of Jonah I’ve often been asked, “Whatever happened to Jonah?”  The book ends abruptly, leaving you hanging in regard to Jonah’s life.  As I’ve thought about [...]
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6/29/2018

The cause of some illnesses can only be removed by the knife of the doctor.  When he operates he doesn’t cut to hurt, but to heal.  Similarly, when God saw [...]
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7/2/2018

One of the greatest Messianic prophecies is found in the book of Micah, 5:2.  Its fulfillment is recorded in Matthew 2:6.  After Jesus was born, Magi from the east, having [...]
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6/11/2018

Some Bible events are easily remembered because of the vivid picture they imprint in one’s mind.  Daniel in the Lion’s den is one of them.  In Daniel 6, the king [...]
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7/3/2018

If you’ve never read Jonathan Edwards’ sermon, “Sinners in the hands of an angry God,” then read Nahum.  The same point is made in both, even though the historical settings [...]
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6/12/2018

In Daniel 9 you find him praying in the light of God’s Word.  Listen to his experience: “In the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, understood from the Scriptures [...]
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7/4/2018

Asked how she could sleep amid troubled times, an old Christian said, “God is always watching, so there’s no point in two of us staying awake!”  Habakkuk didn’t understand God’s [...]
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6/13/2018

As we continue reading through the Bible by the end of this year I trust you are finding this project helpful and enriching.  The Bible declares over and over again, [...]
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7/5/2018

The focus of the book of Habakkuk is: Live by faith in the Faithful One.  The first lesson on living by faith in the faithful one is to be silent [...]
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6/14/2018

In Hosea 6 & 7 the prophet describes what often goes on in the heart of a backslider who wants to come back into fellowship with God.  Let’s do a [...]
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7/6/2018

We’ve been reading the minor prophets in the Old Testament as we progress in reading through the Bible by the end of this year.  Today we look at Zephaniah, who [...]
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6/15/2018

If you want a vivid picture of the agony of God’s love as He relates to His rebellious people then read Hosea 11.  The focus of the agony of God’s [...]
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6/18/2018

An impact statement you’d be wise to remember is found in Hosea 13:6, “When I fed them, they were satisfied; when they were satisfied, they became proud; then they forgot [...]
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6/19/2018

Evangelist Billy Sunday was accused of rubbing the fur the wrong way because of the way he preached.  His answer: “I do not.  Let the cat turn around.”  That’s a [...]
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6/20/2018

Does it pay to earnestly repent and seek God’s face?  Joel the prophet answers, “Unequivocally Yes!”  His task was to describe the coming destruction.  Listen to Joel 1:4, “What the [...]
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6/21/2018

Continuing our project of reading through the Bible by the end of this year we begin today in the book of Amos.  Amos 6:1 says: “Woe to you who are [...]
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6/22/2018

Amos was not a professional prophet, nor did he grow up in a prophet’s home.  His profession was agriculture, a shepherd who also cared for an orchard of sycamore-fig trees.  [...]
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6/25/2018

If the prophet Amos lived today, I believe he’d proclaim as far and wide as possible the warning he wrote over 2500 years ago: “‘The day is coming,’ declares the [...]
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6/26/2018

As you read the book of Obadiah in the Old Testament, just one chapter long, you’ll see the “Law of the Seed” presented vividly.  Listen to Obadiah 15, “The Day [...]
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6/27/2018

Let’s continue our project of reading through the Bible in two years.  Today we begin reading the book of Jonah.  As you read it, notice how Jonah is portrayed as [...]
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5/15/2018

I’d like to read what God said to Ezekiel in Ezekiel 33:31-32: “My people come…and sit before you to listen to your words, but they do not put them into [...]
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6/6/2018

As we conclude our reading and study of the book of Acts, did you notice how often God communicated with individuals or did things in behalf of individuals at night?  [...]
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5/16/2018

Being called to shepherd or pastor God’s flock is an awesome responsibility.  Listen to what God expects of those who shepherd his flock, as found in God’s prophecy against the [...]
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6/7/2018

In our project of “read it through in two,” that is, read through the Bible in two years, let’s go back now to the minor prophets of the Old Testament, [...]
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5/17/2018

I have visited a number of times the area described in the prophecy against Edom found in Ezekiel 35.  We saw the remains of the famous city of Petra.  Throughout [...]
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6/8/2018

As you read the book of Daniel you’ll find in chapter 2 that Nebuchadnezzar had a dream.  He called in the wise men in his court to interpret the dream, [...]
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5/18/2018

The 3rd of the Ten Commandments declares, “You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God.”  As you read the Bible there are many ways in which we [...]
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5/21/2018

Does your faith waiver at some of the questions God asks you?  Ezekiel was shown a valley full of very dry bones in Ezekiel 37:1-14.  Then God asks him, “Can [...]
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5/22/2018

When you come to the close of the prophetical book of Ezekiel in your reading you’ll face a tremendous turnaround.  God had departed from the temple and Jerusalem as described [...]
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5/23/2018

Before we leave the book of Ezekiel let’s look at chapter 47.  I am intrigued by the description of a river flowing eastward from the temple in Jerusalem.  It says [...]
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5/24/2018

We’ve now read and studied the major prophetical books of the Old Testament.  As a change of pace, let’s read and study the book of Acts in the New Testament.  [...]
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5/25/2018

Acts 1:8 gives us a clear outline and title for the book.  Let me read it from the Williams translation. “You are going to receive power when the Holy Spirit [...]
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5/28/2018

A Spirit directed and empowered witness is seen in the book of Acts in the life of Stephen.   Human interest always stimulates concentration and captures the imagination.  We perk [...]
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5/29/2018

In our last visit I shared information on Stephen’s life that can be found in the New Testament book of Acts 6:1 – 8:2; 22:20.  Let’s collect the information to [...]
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5/30/2018

In our biographical study of the life of Stephen we collected information about his life.  Now let’s correlate it into an outline.  For the Title I put: Qualified to Serve.  [...]
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5/31/2018

Today I’d like to start a study of Acts chapter 15, using the Focus and Amplify approach to the study.  Read the chapter over a number of times and decide [...]
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6/1/2018

As we continue reading through the book of Acts let’s do a chapter study of chapter 20.  This will involve establishing the following: a title, a key verse, significant truth, [...]
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6/4/2018

In our study of Acts 20 we identified a title, key verse, significant truth, cross- references, difficulties and some applications.  Now let’s develop an outline.  The Title we already identified: [...]
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5/14/2018

As we saw in our consideration of the city of Tyre’s tragic end resulting from her pride, I pointed out that the same principles apply to individuals.  Ezekiel 28 illustrates [...]
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6/5/2018

There is one final point I wanted to address before leaving our chapter study of Acts 20.  What did Paul mean in Acts 20:26? “Therefore, I declare to you today [...]
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4/23/2018

Jeremiah the prophet demonstrated a character trait every true servant of God needs: tenacity.  As you read Jeremiah, chapters 36-39 you’ll find him dictating a message for the king that [...]
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4/24/2018

Imagine this: People say to the pastor, “Pray that the Lord your God will tell us where we should go and what we should do.”  The pastor responds, “I have [...]
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4/25/2018

I recently talked to someone of another faith who said, “One thing about Christianity that impressed me is the forgiveness I have observed; forgiveness between people and when God forgives [...]
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4/26/2018

  One of the greatest claims for the trustworthiness of the Bible is fulfilled prophesy.  The demise of the Babylonian Empire at the hands of the Medes was predicted in [...]
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4/27/2018

Today is the concluding program in our reading and study of the book of Jeremiah.  After reflecting on all we’ve found in Jeremiah I concluded that the key verse of [...]
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4/30/2018

Among my favorite verses in the Word of God are Lamentations 3:22-23: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.  They are new [...]
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5/1/2018

If you’ve been reading the Word of God with us in our project of reading it through in two years, you should be starting the book of Ezekiel about now.  [...]
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5/2/2018

As I’ve said often, especially in studying the prophetical books, you’ll understand the message better if you get an understanding of the context in which the prophet lived and worked.  [...]
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5/3/2018

There’s a fascinating description in Ezekiel 2 & 3 of how God prepared Ezekiel to carry out God’s appointed assignment.  Let’s do a “4S” study of these chapters: spread, sort, [...]
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5/4/2018

In our last visit we began a 4S study of Ezekiel 2 & 3.  We spread out what is found in these chapters and then sorted it and structured it [...]
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5/7/2018

When you read Ezekiel chapter 3, beginning at verse 16, you’ll find these challenging words, “At the end of seven days the word of the Lord came to me, ‘Son [...]
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4/16/2018

I’d like to introduce you to an impact thought.  Here it is: God’s in the business of remaking broken lives.  If you feel your life has been shattered, with pieces [...]
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5/8/2018

One of the most tragic and terrifying scenes in the Bible is found in Ezekiel.  The temple where God promised to manifest Himself to His people was abandoned by God.  [...]
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4/17/2018

Jeremiah the prophet was called by God to proclaim His Word to His people.  Most of what he said they rejected and vented their anger on Jeremiah, wanting to silence [...]
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5/9/2018

In Ezekiel, chapter 18, verses 4 & 20 God says two times, “The soul who sins is the one who will die.”  I want you to take this Impact Statement [...]
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4/18/2018

I would like to read you Jeremiah 29:10-14.  As I read, listen closely to what God says and mentally start spreading out the information you hear: “‘When seventy years are [...]
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5/10/2018

In Ezekiel 22:30, God says, “I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land [...]
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4/19/2018

Do you feel discouraged?  Or, as though God has forgotten you?  Or even worse, He has forsaken you?  Well, we began a study of Jeremiah 29 by spreading out information [...]
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5/11/2018

The story about the city of Tyre is fascinating.  It was a mighty sea power, a center of trade.  But it also took advantage of others by dealing unjustly.  In [...]
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4/20/2018

I don’t think Jeremiah had very many quiet, restful nights of sleep during his days as a prophet.  But in Jeremiah 31:26 he writes, “At this I awoke and looked [...]
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3/30/2018

In our visit today let’s do a fact finding study of John 17.  Answer these questions: Who? What? When? Where? Why? and How? “Who:” Jesus is praying to the Father [...]
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4/2/2018

No doubt John realized many would have the same problem he and the other disciples had in understanding the death of Jesus Christ.  Jesus told them He would rise 3 [...]
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4/3/2018

Now that we’ve completed reading much of the Old Testament and the four Gospels of the New Testament we’re ready to begin reading and studying the Book of Jeremiah in [...]
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4/4/2018

We introduced the Book of Jeremiah yesterday.  Now, I’d like for us to consider the first of three contexts: the historical context.  Later we’ll consider the immediate context and the [...]
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4/5/2018

        As you read Jeremiah, chapter 1, you not only get the historical context, as I pointed out in our last visit, but you also get an explanation  [...]
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4/6/2018

You can make a difference!  That’s an impact thought based on Jeremiah 5:1.  Considering the tidal wave of evil engulfing our nation and world, you might ask, “What can one [...]
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4/9/2018

The poet Whittier wrote, “Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these, it might have been.”  Jeremiah agrees.  Listen to a brief, poignant impact statement in [...]
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3/19/2018

Over 80 times, including in the Gospel of John, the New Testament identifies Jesus Christ as the Son of Man.  This name for Jesus Christ refers to His being human.  [...]
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4/10/2018

When I read Jeremiah 9:23-24 I was reminded of 1 Corinthians 1.  The church in Corinth was abundantly gifted.  They however became proud about this and this led to jealousy [...]
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3/20/2018

As I’ve encouraged you to read through the Gospel of John, one chapter per day, we’ve been studying the various names by which Jesus is identified in this book.  Thus [...]
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4/11/2018

I was struck by the simple, wholehearted obedience illustrated by Jeremiah in chapter 13 of his book.  God said to him, “Go and buy a linen belt…put it around your [...]
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3/21/2018

In our last visit we mentioned that Jesus in John 8:58 claimed to be the “I AM,” Jehovah God.  In addition He said, “I am the bread of life,” in [...]
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4/12/2018

We’ve looked into the book of Jeremiah a number of days now.  It’s important to learn what this great man of God said, not only to his generation, but to [...]
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3/22/2018

We’ve been looking at Jesus’ “I Am” titles.  In John 10 you have two of them.  He identifies Himself as “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be [...]
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4/13/2018

Yesterday we looked at Jeremiah 17, verses 5-10, and did a focus and amplify study that we didn’t quite complete.  Let’s finish it off today.  The focus is: Don’t presume [...]
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3/23/2018

In our last visit we reflected on the titles claimed by Jesus found in John 10, “I am the gate,” and “I am the good shepherd.”  This picture of Jesus [...]
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3/26/2018

We’ve been looking at references where Jesus claimed to be the “I Am.”  In John 11 we read that Jesus heard Lazarus was sick.  He chose not to visit before [...]
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3/27/2018

One of the most important statements Jesus made is found in John 14:6: “I am the way and the truth and the life.  No one comes to the Father except [...]
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3/28/2018

All of the great “I Am” titles for Jesus in John’s gospel are designed to bring us to trust in Jesus Christ for salvation and for continued growth in our [...]
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3/29/2018

We’ve been doing a study on the names and titles of Jesus as found in the Gospel of John.  After collecting the names and reflecting on what they tell us [...]
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3/8/2018

John spells out his purpose for writing his Gospel in chapter 20:31, “These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that [...]
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3/9/2018

In our last visit we saw that the purpose John had in writing his Gospel was to help people come to “believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of [...]
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3/12/2018

In our last two visits we’ve considered two names given to our Savior – Jesus and Christ.  John’s purpose for writing his Gospel was to persuade readers to “believe that [...]
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2/19/2018

In our last visit we looked at Isaiah, chapter 40.  In this particular chapter we learned how to find comfort and how to comfort others.  We also learned what a [...]
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3/13/2018

We’ve looked at some names attributed to Jesus by John in his Gospel.  These names found in John 20:31 help us understand who Jesus is and why we should believe [...]
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2/20/2018

I meditate on Isaiah 50:4-5 from time to time.  Anyone desiring to be used of God would be wise to do the same.  Let’s do a focus and amplify study [...]
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3/14/2018

Let’s continue our study of the names or titles by which Jesus is identified in the Gospel of John.  John the Baptist declared in John 1:29, “Look, the Lamb of [...]
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2/21/2018

In our last visit we began a focus and amplify study of Isaiah 50:4-5.  The focus we established was, “Basic Preparation for Christ-like Living.”  As we amplified this focus we [...]
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3/15/2018

John chapter 3 is pivotal to understand the difference between mere religious head knowledge and experiential heart knowledge.  John 3 begins with Nicodemus coming to Jesus, the Rabbi, to ask [...]
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2/22/2018

As we read the book of Isaiah we now come across the “suffering servant” as described in chapter 53.  In this portion of Scripture look at who He is and [...]
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3/16/2018

In our last visit as we studied John 3 we saw Jesus as the Rabbi/teacher, the Savior.  Then He is referred to as the bridegroom (John 3:29-30).  Let’s reflect on [...]
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2/23/2018

One of the difficulties in teaching from the book of Isaiah is to try and capture what he says so eloquently.  His messages are filled with vivid word pictures.  It’s [...]
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2/26/2018

Cross-references often enhance our understanding of what we’re reading in the Bible.  For example, in Isaiah 56 it mentions foreigners (verse 6) and in verse 8, “I will gather still [...]
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2/27/2018

I was fascinated by Isaiah’s penetrating view on fasting.  Most Christians know very little about fasting.  Self-denial is not common in our affluent, contemporary life style.  If we get more [...]
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2/28/2018

Isaiah 59 describes where many of us live.  To study this chapter let’s ask some basic questions.   What is said about God?  God isn’t the problem if prayers are [...]
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3/1/2018

Did you know Jesus quoted Isaiah 61 as the basis for His public ministry?  Compare the first two verses with what He said in the synagogue in Nazareth, recorded in [...]
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3/2/2018

I am always gripped by the opening words of Isaiah 64, “Oh, that you would rend the heavens and come down!”  When I see evil sweeping across our land I’m [...]
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3/5/2018

We’ve looked at the poetical books of the Old Testament over the last few months with a consideration of the book of Luke during December.  Let’s take another interlude from [...]
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3/6/2018

One of the unique characteristics in the record of the life of Jesus Christ in John’s Gospel is the references to time.  The book begins with the declaration, “In the [...]
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3/7/2018

In our last visit we studied how Jesus managed time in his life.  He had a mission to accomplish and knew better than anyone that you only have a certain [...]
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1/23/2018

Even though Solomon was very wealthy he kept himself occupied with many projects.  1 Kings 4:32-34 describes this: “He spoke three thousand proverbs and his songs numbered a thousand and [...]
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2/14/2018

I trust that as you’ve been reading the book of Isaiah you haven’t gotten bogged down.  If you’ve been reading consistently, you should be at about chapter 35.  For the [...]
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1/24/2018

Solomon concludes the Book of Ecclesiastes by pointing out: “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you [...]
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2/15/2018

In our last visit we looked at Isaiah 37, verses 14-20.  This is the prayer of Hezekiah when the Assyrian king Sennacharib threatened to overthrow the city of Jerusalem.  Hezekiah [...]
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1/25/2018

Well, we’re almost finished with the section of books in the Bible known as poetry.  I described them as God’s love at work.  We’ve seen a breakthrough in the experience [...]
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2/16/2018

As we continue our study of the book of Isaiah I’d like to focus the next few days on chapter 40.  It presents truth that could comfort us and that [...]
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1/26/2018

I introduced the book of the Song of Solomon in our last visit.  Solomon describes his love for his Shulammite wife as intense, intimate and invincible.  She also describes her [...]
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1/29/2018

We’re almost through the easy part of reading through the Bible in two years.  Much of what we’ve read has been historical in nature.  It’s a story being told.  People [...]
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1/30/2018

As mentioned yesterday, we’re now into the Old Testament book of Isaiah.  I trust as you read your heart will be challenged, stimulated and motivated to bring honor and glory [...]
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1/31/2018

If you listened yesterday, you know we’re reading and studying the book of Isaiah.  Isaiah looks into the future and prophesies about things that are going to happen.  But, by [...]
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2/1/2018

As we read the opening verses of Isaiah, did you notice verse 18 of chapter one?  God gives this appeal: “Come now, let us reason together,” says the Lord, “though [...]
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2/2/2018

Isaiah was a man of God, recognized as a true prophet who was already being used of God.  He wrote in Isaiah, chapter 6, “In the year that King Uzziah [...]
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2/5/2018

In our last visit we introduced Isaiah, chapter 6, and some of the experiences he had as he saw the Lord, responded to Him in humility and brokenness of heart, [...]
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2/6/2018

In our last 2 visits we’ve looked at Isaiah, chapter 6, seeing how Isaiah, exposed to God’s glory and holiness, sensed his need and unworthiness.  When He confessed his sin [...]
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2/7/2018

When you read Isaiah 26 you’ll find a number of references to prayer: words like trust, wait, desire, yearn, and long.  A favorite verse of my wife’s is verse 3, [...]
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2/8/2018

In our last visit we looked at some positive aspects of prayer found in Isaiah 26.  Let’s continue our study by looking at Isaiah 26:16-18.  Verse 16 describes what I’d [...]
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2/9/2018

When reading the Bible, do you ever get the sense God is saying something to you personally that’s relevant to what you do?  This happened to me while reading Isaiah [...]
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2/12/2018

We’ve been studying Isaiah 28:23-29, noticing first, what is said and then determining what it means.  Now let’s consider some applications to our lives. God always has a purpose for [...]
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1/22/2018

I was intrigued by what Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes 5:1-2.  Listen to it: “Guard your steps when you go to the house of God.  Go near to listen rather than [...]
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2/13/2018

While reading Isaiah 29 & 30 I was impressed with the prophet’s observations about worship.  God’s criticism of their worship is unsettling because I recognize similar characteristics in the worship [...]
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1/1/2018

As we begin the New Year I’m sure we’ll remember both fond and negative experiences we had last year and realize we’ll face similar opportunities and challenges this year.  To [...]
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1/2/2018

As we continue our project of reading and studying our way through the Bible in two years, we are presently in the book of Proverbs.  You’ll notice throughout your reading [...]
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1/3/2018

As we saw in our last visit, the book of Proverbs emphasizes two major themes that are inter-related: the fear of the Lord and wisdom.  In Proverbs 1:7 it says, [...]
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1/4/2018

Proverbs 3:5-6 are favorite verses for many.  I’ve had these verses beautifully scripted, framed and hung on my office wall.  But what do they mean?  As I reflected on them [...]
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1/5/2018

Do you want to be wise?  There are some steps you can take that will identify you as a wise person.  They’re found in Proverbs 9:8-9, “Do not rebuke a [...]
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1/8/2018

I would like to do what I call a “4S” study of Proverbs 11:24-30.  First, spread out and reflect on the details presented in these verses.  Sort what you find [...]
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1/9/2018

We’re working our way through the book of Proverbs in our quest to read through the Bible in two years.  I trust you’re finding it beneficial as you read and [...]
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1/10/2018

When planning the way you intend to live your life it would be wise to consider some of the proverbs dealing with planning found in Proverbs 16 in the Bible.  [...]
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1/11/2018

Christians should always be concerned that they share the right words, in the right way at the right time.  I came to this conclusion after reading the book of Proverbs [...]
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1/12/2018

Listen to some proverbs regarding our speech which it would always be wise to keep in mind: We’ve looked at Proverbs 15:23, “A man finds joy in giving an apt [...]
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1/15/2018

On a number of occasions I’ve been asked to counsel women regarding inconvenient or unwanted pregnancies.  In each case I encouraged them to carry the child and give birth to [...]
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12/25/2017

As we approach Christmas I remember once being asked to preach a message on, Unpacking Christmas!  As I thought about it I became convinced that often we celebrate Christmas without [...]
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1/16/2018

Proverbs 31:10-31 describes what many call the Super-Woman!  Or Super-Mom!  Or Super-Wife!  Any woman who comes close to this description deserves the reward and praise referred to in verses 28-31.  [...]
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12/26/2017

In our last visit we introduced Biblical themes often forgotten in our Christmas celebrations.  We considered the curse that fell on the human race and all of creation when Adam [...]
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1/17/2018

In our project of “reading through the Bible in two years,” we’ll start today to look at the Book of Ecclesiastes; a book that looks on life from the human [...]
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12/27/2017

As we’ve seen in our last two visits, Christmas celebrations are shallow if they don’t include the grand story of the Bible.  It’s ironic how blind many are.  Listen to [...]
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1/18/2018

In our reading in the Book of Ecclesiastes we’ll come across a series of statements in chapter 3 that emphasize there is a time for everything and a season for [...]
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12/28/2017

Why is it often difficult to remember what God has said?  You would think the disciples and those closely associated with Jesus would remember His repeated words about His death [...]
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1/19/2018

Even though Solomon was a great man with immense gifts, he learned in life there is significant benefit that comes through partnering.  In Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 he shares insights on this [...]
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12/29/2017

We’ve been studying the book of Luke this month as part of our project of reading through the Bible in two years.  We’ve read Genesis through Psalms and Matthew, Mark [...]
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12/8/2017

                            I noticed in the first 2 chapters of Luke the recurrence of the words “joy” and [...]
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12/11/2017

As a parent of 4, grandparent of 12 and great-grandparent of 4, I noticed in Luke 2:40-52 Jesus Christ’s early development.  In 2:40 it says he grew and became strong, [...]
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12/12/2017

1.      When reading the first 4 chapters of Luke notice how often the Holy Spirit is mentioned: 14 times!  Obviously He played an important role in the preparation for and [...]
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12/13/2017

  In our last v   In our last visit we began studying how the Holy Spirit operated, as found in the first 4 chapters of Luke.  We collected information from the 14 [...]
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12/14/2017

Prayer was very important in the life of Jesus Christ as seen throughout the book of Luke. Let’s do a topical study of prayer based on Luke’s Gospel.  First, collect [...]
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12/15/2017

In our last visi In our last visit we began a study of prayer in the life of Jesus as found in the Gospel of Luke.  The title I gave the study [...]
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12/18/2017

                        I found a fascinating couple of verses appropriate for the Christmas season but in a context that seems [...]
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11/27/2017

Have you ever heard someone say, “I believe in the God of the New Testament, not the God of the Old Testament?  The God of the New Testament is a [...]
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12/19/2017

                        Today I would like to look at a verse we would normally not focus on at Christmas-time.  It’s [...]
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11/28/2017

Have you ever prayed what is found in Psalm 139:23-24, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.  See if there is any [...]
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12/20/2017

                        In Luke 15 we have the well-known parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin and the lost [...]
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11/29/2017

In our last visit we began a focus and amplify study of Psalm 139.  The focus is in the form of a prayer, verses 23-24, “Search me, O God.”  This [...]
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12/21/2017

                        We’ve been studying Luke 15 focusing on the title, The Joy of Finding what was Lost.  We amplified [...]
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11/30/2017

We’ve been studying Psalm 139 using the focus and amplify approach.  We noticed the prayer at the close of the Psalm expresses the focus: Searched by God.  Amplifying this focus [...]
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12/22/2017

                        As we approach Christmas we need to ask ourselves, Why did Jesus come to earth?  One of the [...]
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12/1/2017

As you come to the end of the book of Psalms you find the closing Psalms are a collection of songs of praise.  In Psalm 145 God is described as [...]
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12/4/2017

As a change As a change of pace in our effort to read through the Bible in two years let’s now look at the Gospel of Luke. This will be [...]
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12/5/2017

                            You might not think of Luke 1 as being a description of revival.  We can learn [...]
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12/6/2017

                            In our last visit we began a focus and amplify study of Luke 1.  We identified [...]
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12/7/2017

                            We’ve been doing a focus and amplify study of Luke 1.  Thus far we’ve amplified the [...]
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11/16/2017

Have you ever read Psalm 119 slowly and prayerfully?  When I did this I found what is said in verses 33-40 resonated with my experience.  Let’s together study this section [...]
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11/17/2017

In our last visit we reflected on the Psalmist’s honest description in Psalm 119:33-40 of his struggling, stretching, growth journey.  Step by step he explains how when he’s honest with [...]
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11/20/2017

A number of what I call Impact Thoughts came to my mind as I read and meditated on Psalm 126.  When an Impact Thought develops in my mind as I’m [...]
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10/30/2017

In studying Psalm 84 we found the psalmist had a heart cry for an encounter with the living God.  Listen to his heart cry: “How lovely is your dwelling place, [...]
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11/21/2017

In our last visit we looked at Psalm 126 together.  I pointed out that while reading this Psalm I came up with an Impact Thought: “You are saved to serve.”  [...]
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10/31/2017

In our last study we looked at the first part of Psalm 84 where the Psalmist describes his heart cry for an encounter with the living God.  Today let’s look [...]
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11/22/2017

Psalm 127 begins with an Impact Statement – “Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain.”  The second part of the verse regarding the city is also [...]
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11/1/2017

We’ve been studying Psalm 84 and discovered what’s involved to have an encounter with the living God, or better yet, an ongoing encounter with the living God.  We saw the [...]
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11/23/2017

Have you developed the discipline of waiting on the Lord?  I admit it’s an ongoing battle for me.  Psalm 130 tells us what’s involved in developing the discipline of waiting [...]
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11/2/2017

As I read Psalm 96 I felt a need to do a more detailed study of it to really get its full impact.  I decided to do a chapter study.  [...]
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11/24/2017

Psalm 133 is part of a series of Psalms called songs of ascents.  These were sung as the people of Israel came from all parts of the nation up to [...]
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11/3/2017

In our last visit we began a chapter study of Psalm 96.  We identified a title and key verse, stated the significant truth, listed some cross references and shared a [...]
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11/6/2017

As we continue reading through the Psalms let’s reflect on Psalm 103.  To help in studying this Psalm let’s use some questions.  What does it say about God?  What does [...]
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11/7/2017

In our last visit we began a study of Psalm 103 using a study approach where you answer a few questions after reading the portion of Scripture.  The first question [...]
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11/8/2017

In recent visits we looked at Psalm 103 and answered some questions as a means of studying it.  The first question was, what does it say about God?  The second [...]
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11/9/2017

When reading the Bible you’ll at times find a word or phrase repeated a number of times.  I call these insight words or insight phrases.  In Psalm 107 you have [...]
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11/10/2017

In our last visit we saw that a phrase repeated 4 times in Psalm 107 helps us understand what the Psalmist is trying to communicate.  In each case he describes [...]
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11/13/2017

You might not know who the Psalmist is referring to in Psalm 110 upon first reading it.  But if you check out some cross references it becomes clear he is [...]
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11/14/2017

One of the most positive, upbeat statements in the Bible is Psalm 118:24, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”  I [...]
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11/15/2017

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible.  It’s located about in the middle of our Bibles.  The Bible is referred to in virtually every one of the 176 [...]
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10/3/2017

If you want the voice of God, as described in Psalms 29:3-9, to manifest itself through you, what is required?  If you look at Psalm 29 as a whole you’ll [...]
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10/25/2017

In our last visit I shared how my mother lived out what Psalm 78 encourages.  She taught her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren principles and truths from God’s Word and [...]
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10/4/2017

We’ve looked at various psalms recently.  Let’s continue by doing a chapter study of Psalm 32.  Try reading it in a number of translations.  Then, identify a title to capture [...]
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10/26/2017

Being a pastor, I normally take note of references in the Bible that refer to shepherds.  Why?  Pastor means shepherd.  It’s not surprising, therefore, that when I came to verse [...]
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10/5/2017

In our last visit we started a chapter study of Psalm 32.  We identified a title, key verses, a significant truth, some cross references and question.  Then we established an [...]
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10/27/2017

Have you ever had an encounter with the Living God?  Do you have such encounters on a regular basis?  Do you desire such an experience?  If not, why not?  As [...]
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10/6/2017

We’ve been doing a chapter study the last couple of days of Psalm 32.  We identified the title as: Experiencing spiritual deliverance.  Then we developed 3 points.  There’s a wrong [...]
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10/9/2017

As I was reading Psalm 42 and 43, I noticed one verse was repeated 3 times.  When I find this in my reading I usually stop and ask myself: why [...]
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10/10/2017

If you’ve done something wrong and God convicts you, don’t stonewall it.  It doesn’t pay.  Follow the Psalmist’s example, described in Psalm 51:1.  Cry out for God’s mercy and compassion.  [...]
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10/11/2017

Most people would agree with the psalmist when he says in Psalm 53:1, “The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’”  But would they agree with the last [...]
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10/12/2017

There’s probably nothing more painful than the rejection of one whom you thought was a close friend.  And if you’re a Christian, it’s even worse, if that close friend is [...]
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10/13/2017

Fear is a common experience for most of us.  We feel threatened in certain circumstances and sometimes it’s difficult to know how to cope. I think the psalmist experienced this [...]
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10/16/2017

I don’t know if David did what we now call journaling, but many of his Psalms sound like he did.  Psalm 62 begins with an affirmation of what he knew [...]
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10/17/2017

Sometimes our circumstances provide an incentive for seeking God.  When surrounded by enemy forces, David cried out to God to be a refuge, a strong tower, a shield for him.  [...]
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10/18/2017

Have you ever cried out to God, “If you get me out of this mess I’ll turn my life over to You.  I’ll go to church, I’ll give a tithe [...]
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10/19/2017

Are you interested in missions?  Have you asked yourself how to determine and accomplish a mission in your world?  The psalmist had an idea.  In Psalm 67, he made a [...]
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10/20/2017

Have you ever had the experience where you’re walking along and you’re preoccupied, looking at other things, not realizing you’re stepping on something slippery like a banana peal?  Psalm 73:2 [...]
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10/23/2017

Do you feel depressed and rejected by God sometimes?  If you do, you’ll probably identify with what the psalmist says in Psalm 77:7-9.  “Will the Lord reject forever?  Will he [...]
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10/2/2017

I was struck by the description of the voice of the Lord in Psalms 29:3-9, “The voice of the Lord is over the waters.  The God of glory thunders.  The [...]
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10/24/2017

Whenever I read Psalm 78 I think of my mother.  I don’t know if she knew this Psalm, but she did what it says parents should do.  Listen to Psalm [...]
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9/11/2017

Have you been tracking with us as we’ve studied the tests Job endured by faith?  He experienced a material test when he lost everything he possessed.  He experienced what we [...]
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9/12/2017

When people endure extensive tests to their faith things sometimes get worse before they get better.  In fact, it often seems there is no hope for them to ever get [...]
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9/13/2017

As we’ve seen in Job 38-41 there was a spiritual storm raging in and around Job.  He stammers and stumbles in expressing an apology to God for trying to give [...]
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9/14/2017

We’ve been studying together how Job endured all the tests he encountered and how he finally broke through to a new level of commitment, faith and intimacy in his relationship [...]
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9/15/2017

I trust you’ve benefited from our study of Job.  All believers experience the trial of their faith.  You might not experience all the tests Job did, but the apostle Peter [...]
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9/18/2017

If you’re involved in our project of reading through the Bible in two years you should be starting the Psalms now, two chapters a day.  I’ve entitled the book of [...]
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9/19/2017

Psalm 1 is a Psalm I’ve memorized and encouraged my children to memorize.  I would challenge you to memorize it.  It’s a Psalm that describes a life truly blessed by [...]
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9/20/2017

In our last program we began to study Psalm 1.  We saw that the man or woman who is truly blessed of God avoids certain things.  They don’t walk in [...]
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9/21/2017

Psalm 11 is a wonderful word picture of how to live victoriously in a hostile world.  This focus is amplified under three points:  my ally, my enemy and my victory.   [...]
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9/22/2017

Psalm 18 is another account of how God delivered the Psalmist from his enemies and enabled him to live victoriously in a hostile world.  The word picture of Psalm 11 [...]
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9/25/2017

One of the best known portions of the Bible is Psalm 23: The Shepherd Psalm.  Are you familiar with it?  The psalm begins, “The Lord is my Shepherd.”  If you [...]
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9/4/2017

In our last visit we looked at Job 1:4-5 and chapter 8:4. We spread out what we found in those passages about Job and his children.  Now let’s sort and [...]
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9/26/2017

In our last visit we said we’d do a “4 S” or step study of Psalm 23.  First, spread out the information found in the Psalm, then sort it into [...]
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9/5/2017

When I introduced the book of Job last week I mentioned a number of tests Job encountered.  Enduring these tests by faith was what enabled him to break through to [...]
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9/27/2017

In our last visit I asked this question: “Do you ever feel as though you’ve been forced into a time of retreat or rest?”  An example of this would be [...]
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9/6/2017

Job was the greatest man among all the people of the East, but he was human.  He experienced reversals such as few of us experience in life.  We can learn [...]
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9/28/2017

None of us like valley experiences. This is especially true when we or others close to us     experience going through the valley of the shadow of death.  That’s not what [...]
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9/7/2017

We’ve been studying how Job responded to both a material and a tragedy test.  For most of us those tests alone would have been overwhelming.  Job, however, maintained his trust [...]
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9/29/2017

During this week we’ve looked at Psalm 23.  We saw in verse 1, the provision of the Great Shepherd.  In verses 2 and 3 we saw the plan and purpose [...]
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9/8/2017

What causes stress in marriage?  Money problems rank high in causing marital breakdowns.  Tragedy; the trauma of losing a loved one in the family, can put great stress on a [...]
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8/18/2017

As we saw in our last visit, Esther played a critical role in saving the Jewish nation in her day.  As you read the book of Esther you’ll find that [...]
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8/21/2017

As I read the book of Esther I came away with the strong sense that the focus of the book was on making wise decisions.  Knowing that it’s important to [...]
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8/22/2017

As a change of pace I’d like for us to now go to the New Testament book of Mark.  So far this year we’ve read and studied the Pentateuch, the [...]
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8/23/2017

I hope you’ve started reading the gospel of Mark.  In the New International Version I noticed the word “amazed” was used 13 times.  It might be helpful to examine this [...]
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8/24/2017

In our last visit we began studying how the insight word “amazed” is used in the gospel of Mark, and how it helps us understand the message of Mark better. [...]
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8/25/2017

We‘ve been looking at the word “amazed” as found in the Gospel of Mark to see how it helps to understand the message of the book.  It’s what I call [...]
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8/28/2017

During this program day by day I try to help you, the listener, learn how to study the Bible so you get its message and apply it to your life.  [...]
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8/7/2017

If you’ve been listening to this program for some time I trust you’ve been encouraged to participate in the adventure of reading through the Word of God in two years.  [...]
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8/29/2017

In our last visit we emphasized the importance of memorizing scripture.  Memorization is hard.  We need to work at hiding God’s Word in our minds and hearts.  Learn the reference [...]
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8/8/2017

In our last visit we introduced the Book of Ezra.  The way to success for the Jewish people who returned to Jerusalem from captivity was to be separated wholly unto [...]
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8/30/2017

Since the beginning of this year we’ve read and studied the historical books of the Old Testament, Genesis through Esther, and two Gospels, Matthew and Mark.  We are well on [...]
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8/9/2017

In our last visit, we were studying Ezra 8:21-23.  After spreading out the information in these verses, we structured it into an outline.  Ezra’s testimony was point one.  He affirmed [...]
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8/31/2017

The first book in the poetical section of the Bible is the book of Job.  In reading the book I was reminded of what happened to the atomic submarine “Thresher” [...]
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8/10/2017

A true man of prayer puts feet to his prayers.  He has learned that God doesn’t do for us what He has already given us the ability to do for [...]
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9/1/2017

As I began reading Job I found verses 4 and 5 of the first chapter of Job fascinating.  Let’s study this section together using the four “S” or step study [...]
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8/11/2017

In our last visit we began a study on the topic of prayer.  We collected the information we could find on prayer in the Book of Nehemiah, and then correlated [...]
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8/14/2017

How does revival start?  If you read extensively about revival, you’d find many diverse conditions prompt people to cry out to God until He answers.  In Nehemiah 8-10, you have [...]
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8/15/2017

Have you ever celebrated an accomplishment, or been a part of a group celebrating an accomplishment?  If you think this necessarily would be self-serving, think again.  We’ve been studying the [...]
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8/16/2017

Nehemiah 13 presents a discouraging picture for anyone in leadership.  I’ve always looked at Nehemiah as a great example of successful leadership.  To see how fast the people compromised themselves [...]
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8/17/2017

I hope you’re continuing to read through the Bible along with others.  I’ve benefitted from my reading of God’s Word and preparing these programs.  If you’ve benefitted from it I [...]
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7/27/2017

Have you ever seen the bumper sticker, “If you don’t sense God’s presence, guess who moved?”  It captures a truth found in II Chronicles 15, beginning in verse 1: “The [...]
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7/28/2017

In 2 Chronicles 20 you’ll find some exciting things to help us live as God wants us to live when facing difficulties.  2 Chronicles 20 describes a problem Jehoshaphat the [...]
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7/31/2017

In our last visit, we studied 2 Chronicles 20.  Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, had a problem.  A godless nation was conquering all the cities around Jerusalem and promised to [...]
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7/10/2017

We must always beware of impulsive actions in our walk with God, especially in our worship of God.  I was reminded again of this in reading 1 Chronicles 13 & [...]
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8/1/2017

There’s a fascinating story in 2 Chronicles 25.  It’s about the life of king Amaziah.  He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, but not wholeheartedly, it [...]
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7/11/2017

In our last visit we noted in 1 Chronicles 13 that David and the people neglected an important element in their attempt to bring the ark of God to Jerusalem.  [...]
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8/2/2017

One of the tragedies mentioned repeatedly in 2 Chronicles is kings who lived good lives, but didn’t finish well.  To illustrate, consider Asa, beginning at chapter 14, Jehoshaphat, beginning at [...]
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7/12/2017

We’ve been doing an inductive Bible study of 1 Chronicles 13 & 15, where the events related to David bringing the ark of God to Jerusalem are described.  We started [...]
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8/3/2017

In our last study we saw how many of the kings who lived their lives well, did not finish well.  The tragedy of this is seen not only in a [...]
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7/13/2017

In the midst of David’s triumphs, described in 1Chronicles, you find a truth we should always remember.  1st Chronicles 21:1 says, “Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to [...]
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8/4/2017

In a previous study I included Josiah as one of the kings in 2 Chronicles who did not finish well.  2 Chronicles 34 says he was only 8 years old [...]
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7/14/2017

David wanted to build a temple for God, but God said his son would build it.  David responded well to this.  In fact, we can learn much about humbly trusting [...]
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7/17/2017

We’ve been doing a focus and amplify study of 1st Chronicles 22-29.  We identified the focus as: Helping Others Succeed.  This was amplified by seeing how David prepared resources, materials [...]
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7/18/2017

Today we begin looking at 2nd Chronicles in our project of reading through the Bible in the next two years.  If you haven’t been reading with us, why not start [...]
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7/19/2017

What would you request if God approached you and said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you”?  Solomon’s answer in 2nd Chronicles 1:10 was, “Give me wisdom and [...]
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7/20/2017

In 2nd Chronicles 6 you find Solomon’s prayer offered at the dedication of the magnificent temple he built for God.  There is much to be learned from what he said [...]
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7/21/2017

In our last visit we were studying the prayer of Solomon found in 2nd Chronicles 6.  We asked, what does this prayer have to say about God and about humans?  [...]
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7/24/2017

We’ve been studying Solomon’s prayer at the dedication of the temple he built for God.  In 1 Chronicles 5:13 and 7:3 you find the statement, “God is good; his love [...]
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7/25/2017

Today I’d like to do a focus and amplify study of 2 Chronicles 12:1-8.  When I read these verses a number of times, I determined the focus was that God [...]
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7/26/2017

In our last visit we looked at II Chronicles 12:1-8.  We were doing a focus and amplify study of this portion.  The focus I determined and shared with you is [...]
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6/13/2017

Misused privilege is the greatest of tragedies.  This impact thought developed in my mind and heart as I read the book of 1 Kings.  If you’re reading through the Bible [...]
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7/5/2017

When you start reading 1 Chronicles you might be discouraged by all the genealogical listing of names.  But as I read the lists I was surprised to find my nickname, [...]
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6/14/2017

One of the most powerful impact statements I’ve found is in 1 Kings 1.  Unfortunately it hit me after my children were already adults.  David was on his deathbed.  Adonijah [...]
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7/6/2017

David was a fortunate man.  God gifted him uniquely, used him mightily and gave him men and munitions to accomplish victories necessary to gain the throne and become established as [...]
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6/15/2017

Read carefully the charge David gave his son Solomon recorded in 1 Kings 2.  Take charge, but be sure you do so in a way that’s consistent with God’s Word.  [...]
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7/7/2017

Prayer always plays an important role in God’s economy.  In 1 Chronicles 4:9-10, Jabez was declared more honorable than his brothers.  Why?  Because he prayed for God’s blessing.  He prayed [...]
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6/16/2017

What would you ask God for if you were in Solomon’s place in the dream recorded in 1 Kings 3, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you?”  Solomon [...]
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6/19/2017

One of the most inspiring prayers in the Bible is recorded in 1 Kings 8. When Solomon finished building the temple and had the ark placed in the Most Holy [...]
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6/20/2017

Solomon was very wise and wealthy.  He stood alone, peerless, in his day.  But he had a flaw as seen in 1 Kings 11: Solomon loved many foreign women.  The [...]
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6/21/2017

Elijah was a man of God with a dynamic ministry.  He raised a woman’s son from death among other miracles.  The most dramatic event surrounded his challenging the priests of [...]
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6/22/2017

As we continue our project of reading through the Bible in two years we come to the book of 2 Kings.  I trust you’ve found this project as helpful as [...]
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6/23/2017

Who, What, Why, Where, When and How.  Answering these 6 questions helps to understand a portion of the Bible like 2 Kings 5.   Naaman and Elisha are the main [...]
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6/26/2017

1 John 4:4 declares, “The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” The Old Testament equivalent is found in 2 Kings 6:16, [...]
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6/27/2017

In our last visit I shared an impact statement from 2 Kings 6:16.  Let me share another one from 2 Kings 7:9, “We’re not doing right.  This is a day [...]
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6/28/2017

Leadership can either make or break a project.  2 Kings 12 describes a project Joash the king initiated to repair the temple.  He established how monies were to be collected [...]
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6/29/2017

Hezekiah was a great king of Judah.  Let’s do a study of 2 Kings 18-20, dealing with his life.  Reflecting on this material I gave the section the title: Doing [...]
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6/30/2017

In our last visit we identified a title, key verses and significant truth for 2 Kings 18-20.  We also considered some cross-references and questions arising from what is said.  Then [...]
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7/3/2017

If you find the world around you in a hopeless, sinful state, with the judgment of God hanging over everything, what should you do?  Josiah became king of Judah at [...]
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6/12/2017

We’ve looked at the life of David found in 1 and 2 Samuel.  In our studies we’ve highlighted some major events, relationships and outcomes in his life.  Now let’s correlate [...]
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7/4/2017

Today I would like to introduce you to the book of 1 Chronicles.  This is about where you should be if you’ve been reading through the Bible in two years.  [...]
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5/22/2017

Did you know that “One plus God is a majority?”  You might call that an impact thought.  In our last study we looked at an impact statement – that is, [...]
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5/23/2017

Saul was a king who drifted further and further away from God.  Samuel was God’s servant who had anointed Saul and now tried helping him stay on the straight and [...]
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5/24/2017

In our last visit we saw the tragic moment when Saul crossed the line of no return.  Even though he confessed his sin, the clock could not be turned back.  [...]
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5/25/2017

Today I want us to reflect on an impact statement that introduces us to David.  1 Samuel 16:7 says, “The Lord does not look at the things man looks at.  [...]
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5/26/2017

You don’t need to promote yourself when you are a man or woman after God’s own heart.  We saw in our last visit that God selected David because of what [...]
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5/29/2017

We’ve seen in our reading of 1 Samuel some interesting things about David.  Let’s continue our study of his life.  In a biographical study collect information about the person you’re [...]
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5/30/2017

David models a hard lesson for most of us to learn in the last half of 1 Samuel.  He had been anointed to be the king of Israel under God’s [...]
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5/31/2017

I’ve encouraged you on this program beginning this year to set a goal of reading through the Bible during the next two years.  To do this you need to read [...]
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6/1/2017

In the opening chapters of 2 Samuel we see David being established as the king of Israel.  In chapter 5:13 it says “After he left Hebron, David took more concubines [...]
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6/2/2017

David’s life is best understood by considering his interaction and relationships with other people.  In 2 Samuel 12 Nathan the prophet reappears.  He had a tough assignment to confront David [...]
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6/5/2017

Absalom brought more heartache to David than any other of his sons.  He was a brash, scheming young man, who deceived his father, fled for his life, and ultimately usurped [...]
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5/15/2017

In our last study we surveyed what the book of Ruth was about.  One designation – Kinsman-Redeemer – is mentioned a number of times.  Understanding what a Kinsman-Redeemer is will [...]
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6/6/2017

David’s Song of Praise in 2 Samuel 22 is a song in which he worships God as the great deliverer from all his enemies.  Read the song and identify all [...]
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5/16/2017

Andrew Murray wrote, “Just as water ever seeks and fills the lowest place, so the moment God finds you abased and empty, His glory and Power flow in”   Jesus said, [...]
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6/7/2017

Whenever we celebrate the accomplishments of great people we should always take a second look.  It’s been said, “Behind every great man is a woman.”  In David’s case it could [...]
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5/17/2017

Samuel was born as a direct result of desperate prayers by his mother, Hannah.  Once weaned from his mother, she took him to Jerusalem and gave him to the service [...]
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6/8/2017

2 Samuel ends with a fascinating account of David’s humanness and humility.  He asked Joab to number the fighting men of Israel, resorting to the tendency all of us struggle [...]
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5/18/2017

Often the meaning of a verse or portion of the Bible revolves around the meaning of one key word.  I call that an “Insight word.”  Take the word “Ichabod” in [...]
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6/9/2017

In 2 Samuel 24 it says that God stayed the plague that struck Israel, at the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite.  David then followed the advice of Gad the [...]
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5/19/2017

Samuel had reason to get discouraged from time to time.  In 1 Samuel 8:3 it says, “His sons did not walk in his ways.  They turned aside after dishonest gain [...]
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4/28/2017

Two times in the closing chapters of Joshua he declares, “Not one of all the Lord’s good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled” (21:45). And [...]
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5/1/2017

As I was reading Joshua chapter 24 I came across an impact statement.  Joshua challenges the children of Israel to choose for themselves whom they were going to serve.  Then [...]
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5/2/2017

Are you a listener, participating in reading through the Bible in two years?  If you are, we’re now ready to start the Book of Judges.  To “read it through in [...]
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5/3/2017

In our last visit I introduced some thoughts on the Book of Judges.  This is a book that emphasizes that if we are not careful we will pollute our possessions [...]
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5/4/2017

The book of Joshua closes with Joshua declaring, “Me and my household will serve the Lord.”  Judges 2:10 reads, “After (Joshua’s) generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation [...]
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5/5/2017

No matter how bad things get in society God always finds a man or woman who’s ready to stand in the gap.  The book of Judges illustrates this.  When Israel’s [...]
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5/8/2017

The story of Samson is well known.  But did you know how it started?  Judges 13 says an angel appeared to his mother and told her she would have a [...]
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4/17/2017

In our last two visits we focused on Christ’s death and resurrection.  Matthew wanted to clearly present the facts surrounding the death and burial of Jesus Christ: the cross and [...]
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5/9/2017

In the cases we’ve studied in the book of Judges it’s apparent: parents had a lot to do with how their children turned out.  It’s obvious that a significant life [...]
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4/18/2017

We have now read the first five books of the Old Testament, and the first book of the New Testament.  As Jesus commissioned His disciples even so Moses passed the [...]
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5/10/2017

In the final chapters of Judges you find a convoluted story, as sordid as any you’ll find.  Let’s do an inductive study of these chapters.  Start by identifying what is [...]
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4/19/2017

When God deals with His children He doesn’t forget discipline.  When we break His law, that law will break us.  Obedience keeps us in the place of blessing.  This is [...]
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5/11/2017

In our last visit we started an inductive study of chapters 17-21 of the book of Judges.  It’s a convoluted and sordid account of the destructive power of sin.  Now [...]
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4/20/2017

Joshua 1:8 captures what the book of Joshua is all about.  Let me encourage you to memorize it:  “Do not let this book of the law depart from your mouth.  [...]
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5/12/2017

Continuing to read about the times when Judges ruled in Israel we come to the book of Ruth.  If you’ve been reading a couple of chapters each day this year [...]
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4/21/2017

Former president of America, Richard Nixon, wrote in his book, Six Crises: “The most difficult time of a crisis is preparing for it.  The easiest time is during the crisis.  [...]
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4/24/2017

There are important lessons to learn from Joshua, chapters 7-10: Israel’s battles with the people of Ai, the peace treaty they signed with the Gibeonites and the battle they fought [...]
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4/25/2017

Caleb.  What a man!  What an example of what God wants each of us to be.  To do a study of his life, first, collect information about him, correlate it [...]
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4/26/2017

In our last visit we looked at the book of Joshua, chapter 14, and began a biographical study of the life of Caleb, using the material found in this chapter.  [...]
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4/27/2017

If you’re in leadership as a Christian you are called upon to be a servant leader.  What does that mean?  Well, look at Joshua 19:49-51.  Prior to this you read [...]
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4/6/2017

As we continue to read through the Bible, two chapters a day, we’ll gain a new appreciation of the wisdom and grace of God.  When thinking of Jesus Christ as [...]
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4/7/2017

In our last visit we started a topical study of “authority” as found in the book of Matthew. We looked at references that mentioned authority: Matthew 7:29; 8:9; and 9:6, [...]
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4/10/2017

I’m a novice when it comes to computers, but you don’t need to understand very much about computers to know that output is based on input.  Jesus said the same [...]
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3/20/2017

In Deuteronomy 9 Moses reaffirms God’s promise to go before the Israelites into the Promised Land to dispossess, through them, nations greater and stronger than they are.  He warns them [...]
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4/11/2017

In our last visit we discovered an impact thought: input determines output.  What we put into our minds and hearts will determine what comes out of our lives.  We’ll be [...]
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3/21/2017

Have you noticed how often Moses reminds the Israelites to “Remember” in the Book of Deuteronomy.  They are to remember God’s promise, His provision, His faithfulness and grace.  They’re also [...]
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4/12/2017

Watch!  Watch out.  Keep watch.  Be ready.  These are the imperatives sprinkled throughout the Olivet Discourse, found in Matthew 24-25.  These two chapters are Jesus’ answer to the disciples question [...]
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3/22/2017

One of the things that interested me in my reading of Deuteronomy is found in chapter 17, beginning with v. 14.  Moses anticipates a day, after Israel conquers the Promised [...]
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4/13/2017

As you read and reflect on Matthew’s record of Jesus’ life you find more and more hinted at, and then, clearly stated about the death of Jesus Christ.  In Matthew [...]
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3/23/2017

I was fascinated by the instructions Moses gave in Deuteronomy 20:1-9 to prepare an army for going to war.  Let’s do a “4 S” study of this.  First, spread the [...]
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4/14/2017

When you read the final chapters of Matthew it will be clear that Matthew was concerned about describing the events clearly and specifically. What he recorded could be checked out [...]
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3/24/2017

When God gave Israel final instructions before they entered the Promised Land He shared truth about marriage.  Marriage and the family are strategic in any society. Deuteronomy 20:13-30 affirms the [...]
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3/27/2017

What you do first with whatever is entrusted to you indicates where you are in your relationship with God.  That’s why the Israelites were instructed in Deuteronomy 26 to take [...]
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3/28/2017

On a number of occasions Moses composed songs to celebrate victories, to worship God and to impress on the minds and emotions of the Israelites truth to be remembered.   [...]
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3/29/2017

In our last visit we began a chapter study of the song of Moses found in Deuteronomy 32.  We identified the title: A faithful God.  The key verse was 39.  [...]
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3/30/2017

We’ve been doing a chapter study of Deuteronomy 32.  We gave the chapter the title, A Faithful God, and the Key verse was 39.  A significant truth: God will fulfill [...]
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3/31/2017

After presenting the song we’ve studied in Deuteronomy 32, Moses gave the people and Joshua a message of encouragement and hope.  This set the stage for Moses’ final experiences before [...]
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4/3/2017

We’ve been reading and studying the first five books of the Bible, the first leg of an adventure, which will expose us to all that God had holy men of [...]
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4/4/2017

In our last visit I suggested we start reading the gospel of Matthew as a change of pace from the Old Testament reading we’ve done so far this year.  I [...]
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4/5/2017

It has always intrigued me to notice some of the people included in the genealogy found in Matthew 1. Consider the women listed. The fact that women are mentioned at [...]
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2/21/2017

If you’ve listened to this program since the beginning of the year you know I’ve encouraged listeners to commit to reading through the Bible over the next two years.  To [...]
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3/15/2017

As we read through the Bible in two years, it’s ok to stop and study a portion that interests us. So let’s do an inductive study of Numbers 33.   [...]
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2/22/2017

When reading Leviticus the repeated detailed requirements for the sacrifices might get you bogged down.  It’s important to note some of the characteristics.  The animal to be sacrificed was to [...]
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3/16/2017

I have been encouraging you since the beginning of this year to take up the challenge of reading through the Bible over the next two years, reading on average two [...]
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2/23/2017

An impression you might have while reading Leviticus is rules, rules and more rules.  This seems like living life in a straight-jacket.  It seems too restrictive, taking all the fun [...]
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3/17/2017

In Deuteronomy 6 you’ll find how to walk with God.  We’ve already seen in our last study that where God guides He provides.  How can we order our lives in [...]
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2/24/2017

In our last study we focused on the importance of recognizing that all of the regulations God set down for our behavior are designed to lead us into a full [...]
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2/27/2017

I’ve been encouraging you since the beginning of this year to take up the challenge of reading through the Bible over the next two years: read it through in two.  [...]
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2/28/2017

In the priestly blessing found in Numbers 6:24-26 you find the secret of having the name of God put on you and becoming the recipient of His blessing.  The focus [...]
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3/1/2017

Do you ever wish the guidance of God was as clear and seemingly simple as it was for the Israelites in their desert wandering’s.  In Numbers 9:15-23 it says that [...]
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3/2/2017

As I was reading the book of Numbers, chapters 10-20, I sensed there were some lessons to be learned about leadership.  Moses faced formidable challenges as he sought to lead [...]
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3/3/2017

In our last visit we began a topical study on leadership based on the experiences of Moses in Numbers 10-20.  We collected information on leadership and correlated it into an [...]
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3/6/2017

In our last study we tried to understand some keys to effective leadership in team dynamics. Now let’s look at personal dynamics in leadership.  Moses is a good case study.  [...]
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3/7/2017

We’ve been doing a topical study on the Keys to Effective Leadership.  We’ve considered Team Dynamics and Personal Dynamics.  Now let’s look at Divine Dynamics in Effective Leadership.  The first [...]
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3/8/2017

When considering the Keys to Effective Leadership as seen in the experiences of Moses in Numbers 10-20, there are some practical applications that can readily be made to almost anyone’s [...]
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3/9/2017

As we continue reading through the Bible take special note of Numbers 21 because it’s used by Jesus in His conversation with Nicodemus.   John 3:4-15 highlights the importance of the [...]
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3/10/2017

While reading Numbers 22-24 you’ll encounter the prophet Balaam who had a divided heart.   You’ll find additional information in chapter 31.  Check your concordance for other references where he is [...]
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3/13/2017

In our last study we began a biographical study of Balaam, referred to in Numbers 22-24.  We collected information about him, correlated it into an outline, and amplified the first [...]
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2/20/2017

We’ve been doing a focus and amplify study of the last half of the book of Exodus.  The focus we determined was: True Worship is both humbling and exhilarating.  We [...]
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3/14/2017

While doing a biographical study of Balaam we established an outline under the title: True Prophecies, False Prophet.  After developing the outline the final step in our study is to [...]
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1/30/2017

As you read the opening chapters of Exodus notice two recurring phrases.  Moses repeatedly told Pharaoh, “God says, ‘Let my people go!’”  The other phrase has to do with hardening [...]
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1/31/2017

When God delivered the Israelites from their bondage in Egypt He had four things in mind.  First, He wanted to free them from their fierce bondage and suffering and bring [...]
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2/1/2017

When was the last time God did something special for you?  Did you take time to thank and praise Him?  In Exodus 15 you find the song of Moses and [...]
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2/2/2017

If you were a news reporter writing an article about the battle described in Exodus 17:8-16 you’d want to answer these questions: Who? What? When? Where? Why? and How?  The [...]
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2/3/2017

In our last visit we discussed leadership and delegation.  In Exodus 18 another aspect of delegation is highlighted.  Moses was visited by his father-in-law, Jethro.  He saw how Moses was [...]
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2/6/2017

We’ve used a number of study methods to understand what Moses learned about leadership in Exodus 17 and 18.  Whatever study approach you use, the final step is to develop [...]
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2/7/2017

God is a God of order.  Everything He does has a reason, is just, right, and good.  When He gave the Ten Commandments He didn’t do it to keep His [...]
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2/8/2017

I’m always amazed when I find myself focusing on negative things rather than positive.  In reading the 10 commandments in Exodus 20, I never noticed the positive promise in verse [...]
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2/9/2017

When reading Exodus 21-23 it’s clear that God wants justice to prevail, no matter what the circumstances might be in the society in which you live.  Let’s do a "4S" [...]
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2/10/2017

In our last visit we started a “4’s” (step) study of Exodus 21-23.  We spread out the information in those chapters, then sorted and structured that information into an outline.  [...]
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2/13/2017

God is concerned about our walk, behavior, and the way we relate to circumstances and others around us.  But of even greater importance is how we relate to Him. So [...]
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1/23/2017

Jacob became a changed man after he had that in-depth encounter with the Lord on his way to meeting his brother Esau.  In fact, it’s interesting to read about his [...]
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2/14/2017

The tabernacle as described in Exodus 25 and following was designed to be the focal point in the life of the people of Israel.  The cost of the materials alone, [...]
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1/24/2017

A recurring theme in Genesis is the matter of a parent’s blessing.  You see it in Noah’s blessing on Shem and Japheth in Genesis 9:26-27.  You see it again in [...]
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2/15/2017

In our last study we noted the details in how God wanted to be worshipped.  If we’re to worship Him aright we must follow His instructions, not presume that whatever [...]
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1/25/2017

The life of Joseph presents a refreshing change, compared to his ancestors and siblings.  He wasn’t perfect and he appeared to be spoiled by his father, but when put to [...]
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2/16/2017

As we think of True Worship as seen in the book of Exodus it’s clear that God wants us to come to Him on His terms.  We’ve also seen how [...]
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1/26/2017

I hope you have accepted the challenge to Read it Through in Two, that is, read through the Bible in two years.  If you have, and have read about 2 [...]
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2/17/2017

As we come to the close of Exodus we see the essence of true worship unfold before us.  The tabernacle and furniture were built.  Priests were prepared to serve.  There [...]
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1/27/2017

Let’s do an inductive study of the first 5 chapters of Exodus.  To do this, first discover what it says.  Then determine what it means.  Finally, answer the question, What [...]
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1/6/2017

In our last study we found that God created man and woman.  Both bore the image of God and were commissioned to be faithful stewards of life, relationships, and the [...]
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1/9/2017

Often when reading the Bible you come to a section which you might want to skip because it’s merely a list of names or events without much human interest.  Genesis [...]
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1/10/2017

When you read Genesis 11 did you notice what I call an impact thought based on Genesis 11 which describes the building of the tower of Babel? God told Adam and [...]
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1/11/2017

When you read Genesis chapters 12-14 notice the repeated use of the word “bless”.  In 12:2-3 the word is found 4 times.  In 14:19-20 it’s mentioned 3 times.  The focus [...]
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1/12/2017

While reading Genesis 15 I noticed an impact statement.  It grabbed my attention because I remember it being referred to directly and indirectly throughout the Bible.  God promised Abram He [...]
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1/13/2017

Genesis 18 affords us the opportunity to do a chapter study.  I felt a fitting title for this chapter would be: Serving others has unexpected rewards.  The key verse is [...]
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1/16/2017

In our last visit we studied Genesis 18 using a chapter study approach.  Give the chapter a title and choose a key verse.  Then state a significant truth, look up [...]
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1/17/2017

Proverbs 14: 34 says, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.”  In Genesis 18 Abraham prayed that the first part of that proverb be fulfilled [...]
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1/18/2017

The pathway to a mature faith is not as smooth as many of us at first imagine.  While studying the life of Abraham it became clear that the pathway to [...]
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1/19/2017

There are many applications we can make from a study of Abraham’s life.  His pathway to a mature faith started with hearing God’s call and responding obediently by faith.  If [...]
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1/20/2017

The Bible tells us, the sins of fathers are visited upon their children to the 3rd and 4th generation.  This doesn’t mean God sets out to punish children for their [...]
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1/2/2017

 Happy New Year!                 In our last visit I encouraged you to embark on an adventure, committing yourself to read through the Bible during [...]
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1/3/2017

If you haven’t taken up the challenge I’ve shared to read through the Bible over the next two years, let me again encourage you to Read it through in two!  [...]
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1/4/2017

If you’ve started reading the book of Genesis let me give you a practical principle you’ll find throughout the book.  Keep it in mind as you continue to read 2 [...]
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1/5/2017

The first two chapters of Genesis focus on creation.  God is seen as predating creation.  He is the great creator, creating the heavens and earth out of nothing.  He created [...]
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12/2/2015

Everyone desires a good friend. But a good friend is hard to come by. Jonathan, David’s friend, was the kind of friend everyone needs. To show you what I found [...]
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12/3/2015

Everyone desires to have a good friend. As we saw in our last study, Jonathan, David’s friend, was the kind of friend everyone would like to have. In collecting information [...]
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12/4/2015

In doing a biographical study of Jonathan’s life as recorded for us in 1 Samuel 13 through 2 Samuel 1 we started by collecting as much information about him as [...]
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12/7/2015

In doing a biographical study of Jonathan, David’s friend, as recorded in 1 Samuel 13 through 2 Samuel 1, I discovered some characteristics that should be found in true friendships. [...]
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12/8/2015

Alexander the Great had a secret strategy known as the “Macedonian Phalanx.”  I read that this was little more than a simple military formation with a straightforward mandate: “You never [...]
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9/17/2015

In our study of Proverbs we’ve been amplifying the third point in our outline of the fear of the Lord. We’ve seen that our lives will change intellectually and volitionally. [...]
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9/18/2015

Let’s continue our study of the topic of the fear of the Lord as found in Proverbs by amplifying further the third point in our outline: When you fear the [...]
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9/21/2015

We are finding in our study of the fear of God in Proverbs that when you fear God your life will change in every area: intellectually, volitionally, emotionally and behaviorally. [...]
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9/22/2015

In our study today I’d like to focus on another change that takes place when a person fears the Lord. According to the book of Proverbs there would be a [...]
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9/23/2015

It’s been interesting to me in this study on the fear of the Lord in Proverbs to see the numerous areas in our lives that will change when we reverentially [...]
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9/24/2015

We come in our study of the fear of the Lord in Proverbs to the last amplifying point under the theme: When you fear the Lord your life will change [...]
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9/25/2015

Now that we have been looking at what the Bible book of Proverbs has to say about the fear of the Lord let me encourage you to take one or [...]
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9/7/2015

Today I would like to begin doing a topical study on what the book of Proverbs says about “the fear of God.” This phrase is mentioned 19 times in the [...]
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9/8/2015

In our last visit we started doing a topical study of “the fear of the Lord” as found in the book of Proverbs. Have you made a note of the [...]
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9/9/2015

Let’s continue our study of what Proverbs has to say about the fear of the Lord. I pointed out that the title I came up with for this study was: [...]
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9/10/2015

In our last visit we found out what happens when you choose to not fear the Lord – you leave yourself vulnerable to evil. You will also leave yourself vulnerable [...]
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9/11/2015

We’ve been doing a topical study of “the fear of the Lord” as found in the book of Proverbs. After collecting all that is said in the 19 references to [...]
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9/14/2015

In our last visit we began to amplify the second point in our outline: How to cultivate a healthy fear of the Lord. As you study God’s Word prayerfully it’s [...]
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9/15/2015

In our study of Proverbs regarding the topic of the fear of the Lord we’ve considered the first two points in the outline we developed. When we’ve cultivated a healthy [...]
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9/16/2015

In our last visit we began to amplify the third point in our outline of the fear of the Lord as found in Proverbs. That point is this: When you [...]
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8/28/2015

Let me remind you that getting the message in God’s Word is not merely an intellectual exercise. It’s a spiritual discipline. God wants to feed us, enlighten us, equip us [...]
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8/31/2015

Do you have a hard time understanding the Word of God, the Bible? If you do, consider this. The Word of God will not make sense to you, no matter [...]
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9/1/2015

God has spoken. What He said is recorded in a book He guided holy men of old to write. We know it as the Bible. Because He oversaw and inspired [...]
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9/2/2015

In our last visit we discussed the importance of getting the tools together for doing Bible study. When you have the tools you need to make time for the task. [...]
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9/3/2015

Today I’d like to look at what I call an Insight Word. This is when the meaning of a verse or portion of Scripture revolves around the meaning of one [...]
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9/4/2015

I remember one of the neatest experiences in Bible study I ever had. I was studying the book of 1 Corinthians and came to the well-known 13th chapter, the love [...]
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9/18/2014

Let’s continue amplifying the impact statement in Acts 11:24, “He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith.” What does it mean being full of the Holy [...]
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9/19/2014

We have considered in recent visits the impact statement in Acts 11:24, “He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith.” Let’s conclude this study by focusing [...]
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9/15/2014

As we come to the close of our study of Mark we find Jesus giving the disciples the great commission: preach the gospel to the whole world. “After the Lord [...]
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9/16/2014

When you die what would you want the epitaph to say on your tombstone? An epitaph is an inscription on a tomb in memory of the person buried there. It [...]
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9/17/2014

In our last visit I introduced the impact statement in Acts 11:24. “He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith.” Using Barnabas’s life, I believe a [...]
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2/2/2012

In our last visit we saw that our motive for loving God and others is His love for us. This is clearly stated in 1st John 4:19-21. We also saw that when [...]
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2/3/2012

We’ve been studying how to experience a love driven or directed life. We’ve considered Jesus as our model. Then we looked at our motive and our mandate for being love driven or [...]
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2/6/2012

We’ve been learning that to be love driven or directed in life we need to get self out of the way. We can’t produce “agape” love by sheer effort. Only God through [...]
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2/7/2012

Your life will be love driven or directed when the Holy Spirit is in control and producing His fruit in and through you. This is seen in Galatians 5:22-23. And this is [...]
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2/8/2012

We’ve been studying what a love driven or directed life looks like and how it operates. The reason for doing such a study is to understand what Jesus had in mind [...]
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2/9/2012

In our last visit we concluded by alluding to the experience recorded in John 21. Remember, Peter and a couple of other disciples spent the night fishing. They didn’t catch any fish. Early [...]
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2/10/2012

In our last visit we reviewed John 21 and discovered that Jesus probed into the heart of Peter to see whether his answers were authentic. When He asked Peter if he [...]
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1/24/2012

In our last visit we began to look at what Jesus said about our love in John 13-17. In 13:1 it says that Jesus had loved His disciples and was about [...]
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1/25/2012

In our study of love as found in John 13-17 we’ve considered the Father’s love, Jesus’ love and our love as believers. Now let’s look at love as experienced and expressed [...]
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1/26/2012

We’ve almost finished correlating into an outline the information we collected regarding love as found in John 13-17. The final point I would like to reflect on is the quality of [...]
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1/27/2012

We’ve been doing a topical study on “love” as found in John 13-17 using the 3 “C” approach: collect, correlate and crystallize. We’ve collected what the 30 references to “love” in [...]
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1/30/2012

One of the most surprising things to me in the study of love that we’ve been doing based on John 13-17 is what Jesus said about love in relation to [...]
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1/31/2012

We started this study of “love” as found in John 13-17 by pointing out that God wants us to be “love driven” or “love directed” in our lives. Let’s expand what [...]
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1/18/2012

As we saw in our recent study of the book of Jude, we are encouraged to keep ourselves in the love of God while we wait for the mercy of [...]
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1/19/2012

When reflecting on what Jesus had to say about love as found in John 13-17 it is obvious God the Father is a loving God. He loved Jesus. This is a theme [...]
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1/20/2012

In our last visit we studied what is said in John 13-17 about God the Father’s love. Let’s now organize what is said in these chapters about Jesus Christ’s love. He and [...]
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1/23/2012

We have been studying the topic of “love” as presented in John 13-17. First we collected what is said about love in the thirty references to it in these 5 chapters. Then [...]
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8/18/2010

In our last visit I shared how my mother lived out Psalm 78. She taught her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren principles and truths from God’s Word and shared her “faith [...]
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8/19/2010

The most basic forum for evangelism and discipleship is the family. When God gave the Law, He commanded Israel’s forefathers to teach it to their children “so the next generation would [...]
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8/20/2010

 It takes the wisdom and grace of God to learn how to grow old and stay useful! God never planned for Christians to vegetate beyond a certain age.  Read Titus 2:1-8 [...]
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8/23/2010

I have been sharing recently about the importance of passing on a spiritual legacy to the next generation and subsequent generations. I shared some thoughts about family life that I learned [...]
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8/24/2010

Being a pastor, I normally take note of references in the Bible that refer to shepherds. Pastor means shepherd. So it’s not surprising when I came to verse 72 of Psalm 78 [...]
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8/17/2010

Whenever I read Psalm 78 I think of my mother. I don’t know if she knew this Psalm, but she did what this Psalm says any of us who are parents [...]
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