The book of Galatians is one of Paul's earliest works. In it, he combatted the idea that faith plus works lead to salvation. He warned his audience about the danger of trying to obtain God's favor through the keeping of the law (and losing God's favor when disobeying the law). And, here, to bolster his argument, Paul seems to have quoted an early Christian confession. (4 Minutes/1000 Words)
Read moreAnyone Can Partake of Christ (Mark 7:24-26)
God had promised Abraham, centuries earlier, that in him *all the families of the earth would be blessed*, and Jesus came to bring that multi-national blessing by his blood (Genesis 12:3). Our episode today is a foretaste of his plan. Though the disciples didn't yet understand it, the Jewish Messiah is for everyone! (4 Minutes/1000 Words)
Read moreArchival Post: The Call of Abraham
The passage tells us the Lord spoke to Abram. We aren't told how God spoke to Abram, nor does it tell us why God chose to call this man. I think it is unwise, though, to use this passage as an example of divine election for salvation. Abram received this call of God, not for eternal salvation, but to be a blessing to the nations.
Read moreDealing With Chaotic Times (Mark 3:7-19)
Many parts of this week’s passage are familiar to us. Jesus is presented as being famous far and wide. People from everywhere all come to see Jesus. We know why they are there—they want to see his miraculous power. Mark makes this clear: they came to him only after they heard all that he was doing. (12 Minute/3000 Words)
Read moreArchival Post: Living In Between the Promise and Fulfillment, Part 1
Abram had stepped up to serve as a blessing in Lot's life. God had told him his name would be great, and that he'd be a blessing. And, after Abram rescued Lot from invading kings, Lot would agree.
Read moreWhat Does The Magnificat Say About Us?
Last week we considered what the Magnificat says about God. The previous week we thought about what the song said about Mary. Today, we will set our minds upon what the song says about us. (3 Minutes, 800 Words)
Read moreThe Life of David: Secret Preparation (1 Samuel 16:1-13)
For many years, David has been one of my favorite Bible characters. He has become a friend to turn to, and his life has encouraged mine. Because the texts explaining his life are precious to me, I am going to write a series of articles on the early years of David's life and will release these teachings about once per month. I pray God ministers to your heart as we inspect His word. (10 Minutes/2800 Words)
Read moreGalatians 4:4-5 -- The Son Who Came to Make Sons
Today, let us consider four elements of his coming.
- When did he come?
- Where did he come from?
- How did he come?
- And why did he come?
Each of these questions is answered in our text.
Read moreArchival Post: Are You Anchored In God's Promise?
Hebrews 6:18 says we can "have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us." You might immediately think of a hope or a dream. As the author tells of Abraham and how he clung to God's promise, you might find the strength to hold onto promises you think God has personally made to you.
Read moreExodus 1-2
Hey everyone, thanks for joining us as we continue our study through the bible. And today, we're beginning our study of the book of Exodus. Now the book of Exodus begins very straightforwardly. In verse one of chapter one, it says, "These are the names of the sons of Israel who came to Egypt with Jacob.”
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