Reflections on the Bible, and Other Writings, from a Christian Perspective.
When one is a hypocrite, he or she judges another, but also does the same thing. This is how the man is condemning himself. Because God's judgment is according to truth, He judges against all who practice such things.
One of the most well known aspects of Jesus' ministry was His miraculous healing ability. The gospel accounts are filled with stories of Him healing lepers, the diseased, and more. These miracles are used for a variety of reasons. Interestingly enough, there is at least one instance where a healing is related to the topic of authority.
When we teach today, we may be tempted to just throw some Bible verses at someone without actually engaging our hearts and speaking with compassion. While God's truth would still be conveyed by using that method, I seriously doubt it would be the best approach! There is a big difference between talking to someone, and talking with someone.
In the Gospels, Jesus regularly ate with sinners. This is the case even for those who are often rejected in the New Testament, such as tax collectors and prostitutes. This is kind of surprising, isn't it? Absolutely! However, Jesus did not eat with them simply for the sake of physical nourishment. He was teaching them while they ate together.
Near the end of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus shares the Parable of the Two Sons. In the story, the first son doesn't remain disobedient. He changes his mind. He goes to the vineyard as his father commanded. He is obedient and does his will. We can also change our minds, and seek to follow the will of God the Father.
The last words of Jesus are among the most important ever spoken. People have pondered them for nearly 2000 years. Many have discussed and studied them. Others have reflected on them in their own hearts. In Final Words From the Cross, Adam Hamilton shares some of his thoughts about these amazing statements of the Lord.
A couple of weeks ago I read Final Words From the Cross by Adam Hamilton. One of the strongest points he makes is where he describes Jesus' interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well. After reading it, I was stunned, and actually stopped reading the book for a few moments before rereading the section again. I knew that I had to write a post about his thoughts.
Paul's boldness was remarkable. He preached the Good News of Christ to Jews and gentiles alike, regardless of their economic or social standing. He taught the poor and rich, men and women, Jew and Gentile. He declared the resurrection of Jesus Christ to kings, and others in authority. All of which was without shame or embarrassment.
This is my first post that is explicitly focused on the Good News of Christ, and I want to examine a pivotal passage that shares many of its claims. Specifically, the ones that were taught shortly after Jesus rose from the dead. It is said by many that there are statements in 1 Corinthians 15 that originated from within just a few years after Jesus' resurrection. They were also prophesied about in Isaiah and the Psalms.
In chapter nine of Nehemiah we find a long declaration by the Levites about the faithfulness of God toward His people. Let's reflect on it, and be encouraged by the great mercy of the Lord!
