Posts by Christian Worker
Learning to Pray Like Jesus – John Baker
Jesus probably spent more time in prayer than anyone who has ever lived. So fervent was His prayer life that the disciples (who already knew a thing or two about prayer) once begged, “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1). Far more insightful and fascinating than the amount of time Jesus spent in prayer is the content of Jesus’ prayers and petitions. In an effort to be more like Him, we should ask, “What would Jesus pray for?” He would…
Perhaps – Joey Davis
I was asked recently if there is any possibility of looking at a current event and definitively labeling it as the providence of God. I responded that such is not possible because in providing today, God does not show His hand as He so clearly did when He, in time past, effected His Will by miracles. We cannot definitively label a good outcome as God’s providence. Even Jesus reminded us that the evil and good are often equal recipients of…
The Three Hurdles – John Haffner
When talking with friends and neighbors about religious matters, we should be aware that not everyone is at the same point. For example, one may be active in a manmade religious group and even study the Bible regularly. Another may have only a smattering of Biblical knowledge and an abundance of questions regarding God’s character and existence. Still another may be an avowed atheist. What’s more, all these individuals may live on the same street! Seeing this diversity and uniqueness,…
Are There Idols in my Life? – Alex Simmons
Obedience is an appealing characteristic. Not only to God and Jesus (John 14:15), but also to mankind. Parents, consider the pleasant thought of asking your children to wash the dishes and, with a simple, “Yes sir” or “Yes ma’am,” they immediately obey without raising objection. Such a thought would likely make any parent smile. This could be because obedience is learned and takes discipline or because this character trait has, seemingly, become less common in our society. Whatever the case…
Let the Beauty of Jesus Be Seen in My Obedience – Bryce Mayfield
Obedience is an appealing characteristic. Not only to God and Jesus (John 14:15), but also to mankind. Parents, consider the pleasant thought of asking your children to wash the dishes and, with a simple, “Yes sir” or “Yes ma’am,” they immediately obey without raising objection. Such a thought would likely make any parent smile. This could be because obedience is learned and takes discipline or because this character trait has, seemingly, become less common in our society. Whatever the case…
What Mean These Stones? – Ronnie Scherffius
Israel’s crossing the Jordan River (Josh. 3:1-17) was a memorable event in the nation’s history. It marked another chapter in the fulfillment of God’s promise to give the land to Abraham’s descendants (Gen. 12:6-7; 17:8; 26:3; et al.), and the circumstances surrounding their crossing (Josh. 3:14-17) served as a declaration to the Canaanites that the people of God had arrived (Josh. 2:1-11). The crossing of the Jordan River has also been an inspiration to songwriters. How familiar are the words:…
From the Director’s Desk (August 2025) – Trent Kennedy
For decades, the study of the original languages of Scripture has been part of the curriculum at Southwest. Still today, the students take one quarter of Biblical Hebrew to introduce them to the language and alphabet (alephbet!), and four quarters of Biblical Greek to help them get a foundation for future study. Some have wondered why we study Greek at Southwest. Here are some reasons why we study Greek: Studying Greek reminds us of the original context. Studying Greek makes…
With What Measure – Don Walker
Jesus said, “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, shall they give into your bosom; for with what measure ye mete it shall be measured to you again” (Luke 6:38). There are some interesting lessons here. First, we cannot out give God! We give, and God sees to it we are given unto. In addition, what God gives is “pressed down, shaken together, and running over.” When you get a box…
The Tongue… – Wayne Jackson
Jesus Christ gave a stern warning regarding the unseemly language that sometimes proceeds from a person’s mouth. It is not without significance that two of the Ten Commandments deal with speech—taking the name of God in vain and bearing false witness against another person (Ex. 20:7,16). Similarly, in the Sermon on the Mount Jesus warned against the abuse of the tongue in “swearing falsely” (Matt. 5:33-37). The way one talks is a very revealing index to his character. The Scriptures…
What is Your Life? – Steve Lloyd
This article attempts to answer the question “What would we know about our origin and the purpose for our lives without the Old Testament?” That is a great question! In this article, we will explore life’s “big questions” as they relate to the Old Testament. First of all, let’s take a look at what is meant by “big questions.” Most writers agree that the “big questions” include the following: Who am I? Why am I here? What went wrong? What…
Do Not Be Covetous (Jas. 5:1–6) – John Haffner
The final chapter of James opens with a strong warning directed to the rich. The problem is not merely having wealth, but rather covetousness. This is the greedy, self-indulgent attitude that is never satisfied. It misuses riches while mistreating others. Hard work and honest success notwithstanding, James exposes the sort of heart that loves money more than God, and possessions more than people. This section of scripture offers a powerful reminder, we must not envy the rich or long for…
From the Director’s Desk (July 2025) – Trent Kennedy
When we examine the ministry of Jesus, we see compassion as it was (and is!) meant to be practiced. The compassion of Jesus is seen the following verses: Matthew 9:35-38, Matthew 14:13-14, Matthew 15:32, Mark 1:41, Luke 7:12-14, Mark 9:22, Matthew 20:34. Jesus came unto his own (John 1:11), being made in flesh and blood (Heb. 2:14). This earthly ministry brought Him into contact with people who were desperate, needy, hurt, handicapped, and misguided. It brought Him to places where…