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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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: [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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: [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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.” [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 – [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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. [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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: [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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? [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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: [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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? [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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: [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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,’ [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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) [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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,” [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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: [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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). [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
“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 [...]
“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 [...]
“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 [...]
“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 [...]
“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 [...]
“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 [...]
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 [...]
“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 [...]
“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 [...]
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 [...]
“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 [...]
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 [...]
“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 [...]
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 [...]
“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 [...]
“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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
“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 [...]
“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. [...]
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 [...]
“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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
“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 [...]
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 – [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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.” [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
“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” [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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.” [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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” [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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; [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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? [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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: [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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.” [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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? [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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: [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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. [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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.” [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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” [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 & [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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? [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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" [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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! [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]