Is Jesus the Son of God?
When Jesus and the twelve reached Caesarea Philippi, He asked them a very important question: “Whom do men say that I the Son of man, am?” (Matt. 16:13). Naturally, there were many thoughts and rumors of the Savior’s identity circulating Judea at the time–John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah–just as there would continue to be throughout history. Peter, however, answered the question correctly: “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matt. 16:16). That Jesus claimed deity is beyond…
Does God Exist? – Branyon May
Often the answers to the simplest of observations can yield the greatest insight. Consider the following questions. Where did all the stuff in our Universe come from? Who or what put order and design in nature? How did we end up on a life-bearing planet? By answering these questions, we can form a reasoned argument that our Universe is not an accident but a purposed result (Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:20). Natural Existence Demonstrates the Need for Supernatural The simple old…
A Dying Church Tolerates Sin
Sin is uncomfortable, or at least it should be. For those who strive to be holy (cf. 1 Pet. 1:16), even the smallest blemish should be bothersome to the point of compelling us to address it. Unfortunately, that is not always the case, especially when the sin involves other members of the congregation. For a number of reasons we try to marginalize or ignore the problem, hoping it will work itself out. But, like ignoring early symptoms of a major…
Personal Evangelism
What is your understanding of personal evangelism? When we consider this topic, we are dealing with a subject absolutely essential to the health and growth of the Lord’s church in every community. So, what is it? Simply put, personal evangelism is taking the work of sowing and watering the seed of the kingdom personally, so that God may give the increase (1 Cor. 3:6). It is a command that every Christian should be doing (Mark 16:15). Therefore, let’s consider some…
A Dying Church Leaves its First Love
How sad it is that so many congregations of the Lord’s people are dying. Sadder still, that much of it could be prevented. Major health problems often advertise their presence through minor symptoms. Doctors recommend routine health screenings to look for signs of trouble. In many cases, if symptoms can be identified early then steps can be taken to prevent any major problems. The health of the church operates in the same fashion. By looking closely at symptoms, one can…
What is the Gospel?
If someone were to ask you, “What is the gospel?” Would you be able to give them a scriptural answer? If this question was placed before a denominational preacher, the response will most likely be 1 Corinthians 15:1-9, the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, but these statements are simply facts about the gospel. They are only part of the gospel, the part to be believed. So then, what is the gospel? First, the word “gospel” means “glad tidings or…
Flee – DJ Stucky
Christianity is about becoming more like Jesus and following His path towards heaven. However, as we focus our lives on Christ, we must remain aware of the dangers that may threaten us along the way. God has revealed certain dangers that a Christian should run away from. The word translated as “flee” is the Greek word pheugo (φεύγω) which means to flee, take flight, or run away. In Acts 27:30, pheugo is used to describe escape from a shipwreck. Fleeing,…
Obey – Bryan R Braswell
To obey or be obedient are actions based upon belief. The association with belief, an active hearing of God’s word, is to be noted in this study. The words from the Hebrew and Greek will prove this. For example, in Genesis 3:8, 10, 17. “They [heard] the sound of the Lord…So he [Adam] said, ‘I [heard] Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked…Then to Adam He said, “Because you have heeded the voice of…
Righteousness – Daniel Garza
God is righteous. God does not conform to that standard, as if righteousness is an objective standard outside of Him. No! One of God’s distinguishing qualities is that He is intrinsically upright and just. Righteousness is a part of God’s very essence. Just as God is “holy-holy-holy,” He is righteous-righteous-righteous. He is perfect, just, faithful, righteous, and upright (Deu. 32:4). He is righteous, loves righteous deeds, and the upright shall behold His face (Ps. 11:7). He reigns from a throne…
Walk
A team of Swiss scientists recently reported a medical breakthrough that could potentially change lives throughout the world. The research group NeuroRestore has identified nerve groups impacted by paralysis and discovered a way to stimulate them back to life in order to restore the ability to walk. Early results are promising and it may be that their treatment plan soon finds its way to rehabilitation centers and hospitals all over the world. Walking is a basic human function which we…
Fruit – Ross Haffner
My wife’s grandfather is remembered in our family for being impatient with his garden. When a fruit tree or vegetable plant did not produce quickly enough he would, with much disdain, cut it down and plant another. Perhaps, given more time, the plants could have grown to produce fruit to his satisfaction. Just as the fruit tree is expected to produce, Jesus expects His disciples to live a life marked by personal growth and bringing others to God. Jesus taught…
Victory – Parker Webster
Each and every day, we are faced with battles, trials and temptations. Some wars we engage in are against ourselves, others, or even circumstances around us. Many times, we can feel like we are losing our battles. Whether they be emotional, spiritual, or even moral battles we face, we can often feel vulnerable and desperate. The good news is that we have someone on our side who helps us in every battle that we face. We have someone who is…