It’s true that some are preaching out of jealousy and rivalry. But others preach about Christ with pure motives. . . . But that doesn’t matter. Whether their motives are false or genuine, the message about Christ is being preached either way, so I rejoice. And I will continue to rejoice. Philippians 1:15, 18 Why […]
Read MoreCategory Archives: Church
The Indispensable Local Church
I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. Philippians 1:9–10 Where did you find your mate? More than […]
Read MoreChrist’s Church
Upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. Matthew 16:18 Note first to whom the church belongs—Jesus. “I will build MY church.” It is not pressing the issue out of bounds to emphasise that the church is not the work of some pastor or priest […]
Read MoreMore Than Entertainment
Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. Ephesians 4:3 A family was driving home from church on Sunday. Dad was fussing about the sermon being too long and sort of boring. Mom said she thought the organist played too loudly during the second hymn they sang. Sis, […]
Read MoreThe Problem with Progress, Part One
Looking back on it, it is admirable, almost heroic. We salute visionaries of yesteryear. They emerge from the pages of our history books as men and women of gallant faith. We shake our heads in amazement as we imagine the herculean courage it took to stand so confidently when the majority frowned so sternly. Yesterday’s progress earns for itself today’s monuments of stone.
Read MoreThe Church, Part Two
Yesterday, we discovered Dr. Jay Kesler’s five reasons why the church really is a big deal. No, it isn’t perfect (you’re a part of it, aren’t you?) and it hasn’t always modeled its message. But whatever is next in order of importance is a distant second—and I mean way down the line. So, what’s all the commotion about the church? Well, besides the things in the list, I can think of only one other reason worth consideration.
Read MoreThe Church, Part One
So, what’s the big deal about the church? Good question. And it deserves a good answer. Something more than, “You gotta have one to get married in,” or “It’s the place kids oughta be on Sunday.” Or how about, “There’s not a better spot to make business contacts.” Really, now . . . haven’t you wondered at times if the church is that significant in a day of high-level decisions and powerful international issues? I sure have.
Read MoreHeeding Christ’s Call
Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20–21 Jesus is building the church—authentic believers in Him—to share His […]
Read MoreExpository Preaching
Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 My plea is that we return to the exposition of the Scriptures. For decades, expository preaching could be found […]
Read MoreWatch for Wolves
Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people. Romans 16:17–18 Trouble in ministry […]
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