John was clear. The church he wrote to knew the truth (21). They had not partaken in the lie floating around at that time (21). And it's a lie still floating around today. What is it?

Joseph, the youngest son of Jacob, was favored by his father. So much so, he was given a position of power and privilege over his older brothers.

God favored Joseph too. He gave him dreams that indicated he'd one day lead his brothers and parents. No one but Joseph believed these dreams, and his brothers despised him because of the favor both God and their father had shown him.

Every time I read about the morning and evening sacrifice, I am humbled. Though I've done it imperfectly, for many years, I have sought the Lord in the morning. But the afternoon or evening time of prayer has never been a regular part of my life. I want it to be.

As everyone is aware, we are in a divisive presidential election season. Though I love my country and consider myself blessed to be a citizen here, as a senior pastor, I grin and bear these seasons every four years. But this year, I thought it could be helpful to offer some pastoral counsel for this election. I want to point you afresh to Jesus and give you some biblical pillars during this disruptive time.

No two people are alike, and if by some miracle they are, they won’t automatically like each other for it. We are people with brokenness, sinful desires, and bad histories, so it is inevitable conflict will come. Christina and I have our fair share of misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and selfishness. Fortunately, we always get back to forgiveness, communication, and love. Rather than stay stuck in a crazy cycle of conflict, we have found there are attitudes which underpin a healthy relationship. One of them resides in the little verse above.

Have you ever wanted to know how some of the most Spirit-led people make decisions? What does it look like for the ultra-godly to choose where to go and what to do?

A legion of demons, a herd of pigs plummeting off a cliff, and a man living in a graveyard on the outskirts of town—these are the shocking images of this episode. Word after word, sentence after sentence, and paragraph after paragraph grips the reader. This happened!

Each week throughout 2021, I will share a Bible study blog post taking us through the letter of 1 John. Only five chapters long, this brief book is worthy of our consideration. Whether you drop in for one post or many, I pray that you enjoy them. Access all posts here.

In this section of 1 John, we are learning to let God's love have its perfect work in us (1 John 4:13-21). Last week we considered the importance of growing in an understanding of God's love (4:13-16). Today, John will explain to us how God's love is perfected in us (4:17-18).

Parents all over the world want their children to know of their love. Though none show it perfectly, this heart comes from the original parent, God, who is the Father of all humanity. He is the better, ultimate, and righteous parent, and He works hard to communicate His love for His children. He desires that we know how valuable we are in His sight, how strong He is to work on our behalf, and that He has a plan for our lives.