In Ephesians 6, Paul warns us of the power that we are up against in this world in which we live. He reminds us that the threat is real and the danger is high. Ephesians 6:12 (ESV) 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against […]
When writing to the church in Corinth, Paul referred to them as those who had been sanctified, perhaps to remind them of how they were falling short of their calling. 1 Corinthians 1:2 (ESV) 2 To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together […]
Outside of John 3:16, Psalms 23 might be the most popular passage in the Bible. Many have committed it to memory. Preachers have used it to comfort those who are going through trials and tribulations, suffering from some terrible illness, or even dying. For some, the words of this Psalm, or portions of it, have […]
Most Christians understand the importance of prayer. We are repeatedly exhorted to pray in the New Testament. Paul exhorts us to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). This does not mean that we are to literally pray nonstop, but rather that we should consistently maintain the practice of praying. Prayer is easy. It only takes […]
Hebrews 11 is filled with people who had a type of faith that was willing to suffer, sacrifice, and surrender to God. At the top of the list was Abraham. He was willing to do anything for God, even sacrifice his son, Isaac, as a burnt offering. Hebrews 11:17-19 (ESV) 17 By faith Abraham, when […]
Paul once referred to Abraham as” the father of all who believe…” It is obvious, therefore, that we should emulate his faith. Like Abel, Enoch, and Noah, Abraham proved his faith by his willingness to obey God. Hebrews 11:8 (ESV) 8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place […]
The story of Noah gives us a classic example of an obedient faith. Hebrews 11:7 (ESV) 7By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes […]
What kind of faith do you have? This is an incredibly significant question. The kind of faith that we have will determine where we spend eternity. As the Hebrews writer says, without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Faith cannot be faked. Certain characteristics are always shown by saving faith. In our […]
What kind of faith did Abel have? He had the kind that leads to righteousness. Hebrews 11:4 (ESV) 4 By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks. […]
Redemption is a powerful word. Three Greek words for redemption are mainly used. The first word is Agorazō, meaning “To redeem; to go to market to purchase.” This word only carries the idea of buying something. It does not say much about what the buyer plans to do with whatever it is that is purchased; […]