The Church has fallen on hard times in America. She is in statistical decline, aging and contracting. In the normal course of things aging brings maturity, and with maturity comes wisdom – usually. Maturity, therefore, must be passed along to the next generation. However, that’s just it. The next generation is missing from many congregations.
Read MoreThe book of Acts begins with the dramatic story of how the church was birthed in Jerusalem by the Spirit working through the word. The living and abiding word of God bridged sixteen diverse cultures when the apostles spoke the mighty works of God in their own tongues “as the Spirit gave them utterance” (Acts 2:4).
Read MoreWhenever Jesus begins by saying “Beware” it’s best you sit up and listen. Beware means to be on guard; to get your attention. “Beware” means a warning is about to be spoken. Ignore it at your own risk. One occasion was the sermon on the mount. Jesus said, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves” (Matt. 7:15).
Read More“All things should be done decently and in order” (1 Cor. 14:40). There was disorder and confusion among the early Christians at Corinth, especially during their times of worship. That’s why the Apostle Paul gives some simple direction for how the church is to organize herself and conduct her life.
Read More“That may be true for you, but it is not true for me.” It’s a common phrase heard among people in our culture today. Truth has fallen on hard times. It echoes what Pilate said to Jesus while on trial: “So you are a king then?” He was trying to determine if Jesus was indeed a king. Jesus responds, “For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.” Pilate said to him, “What is truth?” (John 19:37-38)
Read More“Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Rev. 2:10b). The Apostle John heard these words of Jesus to the Church of Smyrna in His heavenly vision. They are a call to faithfulness amid a culture hostile to faith. They are fitting words for Christians of all times, but certainly for us. At all times we are called to discipleship—to repent of our sins and to live out our faith according to our daily stations of life.
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