The Unnamed Prophets
When we think of the prophets we tend to think of men like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Elijah, and for good reason. Their work in the service of God is renown to us, as it was during the time of the first century (cf. Matt. 16:14). But Scripture describes the work of many prophets of old. Some worked in palaces and some among the people. Some wrote, some did not. Some worked for many years, some for just a short time.…
What Shall I Do With Jesus?
A judge’s responsibility is heavy, indeed. The ability to administer justice with a word and affect countless lives in mere moments necessitates careful consideration and impartial decisiveness. A failure to do so could prove disastrous. Could a better example be found than that of Pilate in Matthew 27:15-25? As the Roman Procurator heard the case against the Christ, he asked “What shall I do with Jesus?” It is a question we all must ask. It implies a decision to be…
To the Work!
As the Southwesterner is being published preceding the graduation of SWSBS class of 2024, the congregation is busy getting ready for the banquet and for graduation Sunday. Of course, we are reflecting on the relationships that have been made and rejoice in the spiritual growth of the student body. Having been immersed in the scriptures and introduced to the work of evangelists, there have been valuable lessons learned in time management. Who knew that even sleep would be a matter…
Abstain from Fleshly Lusts
Peter said, “Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul” (1 Pet. 2:11). The “fleshly lusts” which Peter spoke of are sinful passions and desires that direct our attention away from obeying the Lord’s will. Peter said that these lusts are continually waging war against us and, therefore, we must fight back. But how? 1. Be spiritually minded. Romans 8:6 says, “For to be carnally minded is death; but to…
Make Me a Servant!
We have just completed our annual Servants Academy. The week was well attended and encouraging. Giving young people a glimpse into the life of a SWSBS student while also emphasizing the need to serve is a good work, and we are thankful to the Lord for the privilege of doing it. Consider for a moment the term servant. What is a servant? What does it mean to serve? Notice 5 qualities set forth in God’s Word. 1. A servant surrenders…
From the Director’s Desk (June 2024) – Trent Kennedy
For decades the Southwest congregation has hosted a session of summer camp at Camp Hensel. SWSBS has a unique opportunity to be involved in this camp which gives our students valuable experience, exposure, and opportunities. Students are often placed in the role of camp counselor allowing them to guide, encourage, and interact with campers of various ages. These types of scenarios help our students know how to communicate with youth from various backgrounds, knowledge levels, and maturity. They give cabin…
Moses And Materialism – Mark Miller
We live in a very materialistic society. In this context we would define materialism as “a preoccupation with, or stress upon, material things rather than upon intellectual or spiritual values.” In America we like our stuff. Whether it be homes, second homes, vehicles of various types, clothes, jewelry, guns, sport vehicles, IT gadgets…we like our stuff! The Scriptures present to us a different set of priorities focused on spiritual blessings rather than stuff. In Matthew 6:19-21 we read, “Lay not…
Moses and the People of Israel – Dave Rogers
Moses stood in the minds of ancient Israelites as “THE” prophet, greatest among all those who followed him because of his role as deliverer and lawgiver for his people. After assembling Israel on Mt. Ebal and Gerizim to recite the blessings and curses prescribed by God, Joshua read to all the people every word Moses had commanded them (Josh. 8:35). First-century Jews referred to the five books of the Pentateuch as simply “the book of Moses” (Mark 12:26), and in…
Moses and the False Prophet – John Baker
Deuteronomy 16:18-18:22 is a well-defined section of Scripture focused on leadership in Israel. The question under consideration is, “How will Israel get along without Moses?” After all, Moses had been clearly attested by God to be His spokesman both to Pharaoh (Ex. 7:9-12) and to Israel (Num. 16:28-33). But Moses knew that the time of his death was drawing near (Deu. 31:14), and God had not yet finished saying everything He intended to say to Israel. More revelation would be…
Moses and the Christ – Cliff Goodwin
There must have been excitement in Philip’s voice when he said to Nathanael, “We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write…” (John 1:45). Not only did Moses write of Jesus in various passages throughout the Pentateuch, he also prefigured (foreshadowed) the Christ personally. Both of these realities are brought out in Deuteronomy 18:15-19. The apostle John gives clear evidence in his gospel account that the Jewish people of the first century were looking…
Moses and Pharaoh – Wade Webster
We often talk about David and Goliath, and we should. It is an amazing story. It has been used in sports, in business, in politics, and in many other arenas to speak of a contest where one of the participants is at a decided disadvantage. For sure, that was the case with David and Goliath. David was a shepherd. Goliath was a soldier. Not only did Goliath think that David had no chance, so did David’s kin and David’s king…
Moses, Like No Other Prophet
The unique character and work of Moses is well summarized in Deuteronomy 34:10-12. But since then there has not raised in Israel a prophet like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face, in all the signs and wonders which the Lord sent him to do in the land of Egypt, before Pharaoh, before all his servants, and in all his land, and by all that mighty power and all the great terror which Moses performed in the sight of…