In our previous articles, we have looked at the books of Genesis – Judges. Our intent has been gaining better insights into the books and hopefully, inspiring us to read each story with an eye toward their humanity and purpose for us. Continue reading “Ruth: A book of redemption and hope.”
Last week we spoke about the book of Joshua. A wonderfully encouraging book filled with stories of victory and courage. There are times when we can relate to Joshua but often we find ourselves more closely connected with the book of Judges. Judges tells us the story of life. A life filled with ups and downs, victories and defeats. An honest and humbling picture of life as we know it.
Continue reading “Judges: a book about the ups and downs of life.”
For most Christians, Joshua is a favorite book to read. Perhaps it’s because we have just finished the Pentateuch (5 books of law) and we’re excited to read something less dry. Maybe it’s because the book is an action-packed book filled with all kinds of battles.
Hopefully, each book we have covered so far has given us special insights into our God and his desire to draw us near to himself. Deuteronomy is no different. It recounts the history of the nation, its highs, and lows, to a new generation of Israelites who were not there to witness the miracles of God.
Up to this point, we have looked at Genesis through Leviticus. I hope each book has helped you learn something important about God and what he wants for you. Genesis is a book of beginnings: the beginnings of us, of sin, and just as importantly; the beginning of God’s love story with us. Exodus is a book of redemption: God redeems his people from sin and self; walks with them and moves heaven and earth for them. Leviticus is a book about relationships: God is a holy and just God who wants to have a personal relationship with his people. Leviticus details how we can approach God and have fellowship with him.
Continue reading “Numbers: a book about God’s faithfulness.”
The book of Leviticus is a book seldom finished. Many start the book with the intentions of finishing it but after enduring rule, after rule, they give up and move on. The result is that many of us never really appreciate the beauty of the book nor understand the big picture lessons.
Last week, we spoke about the book of Genesis and the many beginnings found in it. It is truly a book about the beginning of us and our struggle with sin. Yet, bigger and far more important. It is a book about God and His great love for us. It is the beginning of a love so grand and overwhelming that God sets into action a plan to save us from sin and self.
Today, I want us to consider the book of Exodus. Often read and rarely understood for its actual message about God. The theological implications of the book of Exodus are truly profound because they tell us amazing things about our God. They describe in great detail what he is willing to do for us and ultimately to instill a sense of worth in our own eyes. Continue reading “Exodus: A book of redemption.”
Today we are going to begin something new with our bulletin articles. We are going to begin a series of articles that starts in Genesis and runs through Revelation. The goal will not be detailed exegetical work but general introductions to each book. Today we will start at the beginning, the book of Genesis. Continue reading “The Book of Beginnings: Genesis”
Why does it seem like being a disciple of Jesus is so challenging? Why does it seem like such a difficult undertaking? Continue reading “They were “only” fishermen!”
In John 15:1-17, Jesus speaks to us about abiding in Him. He draws a beautiful picture of an olive vine with its many branches. We expect to see each branch filled with beautiful fruit but it’s not. Instead, we are confronted with branches that are failing to produce, branches that have the potential to bear fruit, but for some reason they are empty.
Some time ago, I had lunch with a dear friend and fellow elder. We always have a great time and just as important, we always have challenging discussions about the church and faith. This friend has shaped and challenged my thinking regarding faith and the church for many years yet, this specific conversation has stuck with me more than normal. I want to share this with you and even solicit your help in fleshing this out.
How many times have we heard someone say that? How many times have you asked that question yourself? Typically, the question is the result of someone saying or advocating a position on scripture that is different than our traditional understanding. I believe this is a good question and it gets to the heart of most sermons, bible classes, and bulletin articles. Continue reading “What is he trying to accomplish?”
Anyone who has been a member of the “church of Christ” for any length of time has probably thought about this. It’s an honest and sincere question that deserves an answer. Is salvation about Jesus or is it about me? Continue reading “Is it about Jesus or me?”
Matthew 23:23–24
“23 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. 24 You blind guides, straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel!” (ESV)
Last week, we spoke about this push within the church toward a more grace-centered faith. As I said in the articles, I have enjoyed this gentler and more compassionate aspect to the church. The church, embracing the fullness of Jesus’ heart, and loving each other has made church, worship, and my own faith much more enjoyable. I hope you have noticed this and are happy about it as well.
But today, I need to express a word of caution. Just because we have embraced a softer, gentler side of the faith. Just because we are focusing more on God’s grace and mercy doesn’t mean that we are free to stop doing the things we have been doing.
Embracing a softer, more compassionate side of the faith is great as long as we stay balanced in our theology and actions.
Last week we started this article on becoming grace centered. I believe that this is a necessary and long overdue shift within the church. A move toward a gentler and more compassionate faith seems to be more in keeping with the heart of Jesus himself. Today we will continue with the second half.
Central Haywood Church of Christ 