Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him—but some of them doubted! Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, […]
Read MoreCategory Archives: Church
Encouragement in Action
If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person? (1 John 3:17) Going to the statement found in Hebrews 10:24, we are to “consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds.” In other words, […]
Read MoreCalled Alongside to Help
And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. (Hebrews 10:25) Certainly there is more to encouragement than a smile and a quick pat on the back. We need to realise just how valuable it really is. […]
Read MoreLove with Authentic Affection
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honouring each other. (Romans 12:9–10) As I search God’s Word for reasons to break with the isolationism of this age, I find two inescapable facts: God […]
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 MoreFeed On Solid Food
Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11–12) The Word of God is penetrating . . . and poignant . […]
Read MoreBe on Guard!
So guard yourselves and God’s people. Feed and shepherd God’s flock— his church, purchased with his own blood— over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as leaders. I know that false teachers, like vicious wolves, will come in among you after I leave, not sparing the flock. Even some men from your own group […]
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