christianity
-
The Firm Foundation
Years ago when we lived in Texas, the church became involved in a building program. For months when I would go to my study, my concentration would be distracted by the construction work going on just outside my office window. It was natural to let the thoughts settle on the building metaphors of the Bible.… Continue reading
-
The Herald of Good News
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns’” (Isaiah 52:7). The announcement of good news is always welcome, but especially in times of evil and distress. Such was the case… Continue reading
-
The Impact of a Good Life
There are great advantages in striving to live a good life—a life whose character is defined by our Creator. A good life is a significant commodity in society and in the church. Its impact on ourselves, our families, and others should never be underestimated. Living a good life elevates the quality of life. “That it… Continue reading
-
Timothy’s Needs
“And for this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, or of… Continue reading
-
Timothy’s Character
It was apparently Timothy’s character and reputation that first attracted Paul to him. The text in Acts 16 tells us that Timothy was “well spoken of by the brethren who were in Lystra and Iconium” and for this reason Paul decided “he wanted this man to go with him” as a companion and fellow-worker (Acts… Continue reading
-
Timothy’s Advantages
“I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience the way my forefathers did, as I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day, longing to see you, even as I recall your tears, so that I may be filled with joy. For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which… Continue reading
-
Why Paul’s Preaching Was Not in Vain
For some reason, Paul wrote defensively in 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12. Perhaps there were some opponents in Thessalonica who had misrepresented him. Possibly the apostle was just defending himself and other preachers, Silvanus, Timothy and others, in order to distinguish between themselves and charlatans. Paul wanted the brethren who read his letter to know that his… Continue reading
-
To the Glory of God
The great German musical composer Johann Sebastian Bach said, “All music should have no other end and aim than the glory of God and the soul’s refreshment; where this is not remembered there is no real music but only a devilish hub-bub.” Bach always headed his compositions: “J.J.” “Jesus Juva” which means “Jesus help me.”… Continue reading
-
Watch Your Steps
“Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. To draw near to listen is better than to offer the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they are doing evil. Be not rash with your mouth, nor let your heart be hasty to utter a word before God, for God… Continue reading
-
Remember Your Creator
“Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, ‘I have no pleasure in them’” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). One of the observations made repeatedly in Ecclesiastes is that life under the sun is uncertain. “Time and chance happen to them… Continue reading
-
In His Time
“There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every season under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). That there is an appointed time for everything is the fundamental truth discussed in this extended passage (Eccles. 3:1-8). What is appropriate on some occasions is not so at others. The passage presents a series of… Continue reading
-
He Who Regards the Clouds
“He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap” (Ecclesiastes 11:4). The wisdom of this passage is understandable when we apply it to everyday life. If a farmer allows himself to become overly concerned with the threat of strong winds, he will not be busy working to… Continue reading
Lamp Posts 