The Gospel of Matthew records five main teaching discourses from Jesus. Matthew 5-7 is Jesus' call to righteousness, which is about doing the will of God. Jesus is teaching his disciples and the multitudes from the mountain. Jesus begins with what is commonly called The Beatitudes which are the blessings of God (Matt.5:1-12). The Latin word for "blessed" isbeati. … Continue reading You’re Blessed!
Bible Reading Tools
Reading your Bible each day is a terrific way to experience God as well as to learn his ways and wisdom for life. This year our church is reading through the New Testament and the books of Psalms and Proverbs. As we read the written word (the Greek word logos), we position ourselves for the … Continue reading Bible Reading Tools
Jesus, Born to be King
Christmas draws our attention to the arrival of Jesus on the earth as a small baby over 2,000 years ago. It provides an opportunity to reflect on his life and how He intersects with our life, wherever we may be on our journey. Jesus is known by many titles, each describing part of who he is … Continue reading Jesus, Born to be King
A Letter to the Church at Laodecia
Here is a challenging message from Jesus to the church at Laodecia: Revelation 3:15-19. I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my … Continue reading A Letter to the Church at Laodecia
A Letter to the Church at Sardis
Jesus had John write another letter to the church at Sardis. Revelation 3:1-6. I see right through your work. You have a reputation for vigor and zest, but you're dead, stone dead. Up on your feet! Take a deep breath! Maybe there's life in you yet. But I wouldn't know it by looking at your busywork; … Continue reading A Letter to the Church at Sardis
A Letter to the Church at Ephesus
Here is a copy of a letter from Jesus to the church at Ephesus in the first century, as given to John as he was in the Spirit praying ... Revelation 2:2-7. "I see what you've done, your hard, hard work, your refusal to quit. I know you can't stomach evil, that you weed out … Continue reading A Letter to the Church at Ephesus
Living in the Last Days (1 Peter 4)
The apostle Peter presents us with a strong challenge for times like ours: 1 Peter 4:7-11. The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. Cheerfully share your home … Continue reading Living in the Last Days (1 Peter 4)
Leading in Tough Times (1 Peter 5)
As part of his letter to followers of Christ scattered throughout the Mediterranean world, the apostle Peter shared a few thoughts especially for church leaders. 1 Peter 5:1-4. I have a special concern for you church leaders. I know what it's like to be a leader, in on Christ's sufferings as well as the coming … Continue reading Leading in Tough Times (1 Peter 5)
Endurance during Suffering (1 Peter 1)
The book of 1 Peter was a general letter written by the apostle Peter to a wide group of early Christian communities comprising a vast network of small groups scattered throughout the Mediterranean world. Like most letters, it begins with a greeting (1:1-2), then moves to a blessing (1:3-9), followed by a statement (1:10-12), then the … Continue reading Endurance during Suffering (1 Peter 1)
Overcoming Temptation
More wisdom from James on temptation ... James 1:12-15. God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do … Continue reading Overcoming Temptation
The Joy of Trials
Here is some wise and highly relevant advice from James, the brother of Jesus: James 1:2-8. Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your … Continue reading The Joy of Trials
Parables of the Growing Kingdom (Pt.3)
Our Response So what do we take away from the message of these parables about kingdom growth? What’s the application? What does this all mean for us today? A few thoughts ... 1. Be Patient - It's Guaranteed! Like The Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds, these parables teach us that God does have a plan for this … Continue reading Parables of the Growing Kingdom (Pt.3)
Parables of the Growing Kingdom (Pt.2)
The Parable of the Mustard Seed (Luke 13:18-19) The mustard seed was the smallest known seed in Palestine at the time (about a millimetre in diameter). It had become proverbial in that culture for ‘smallness’ (see Matthew 17:20). Over time it would normally grow to a bush or tree of about 2 metres in height … Continue reading Parables of the Growing Kingdom (Pt.2)
Parables of the Growing Kingdom (Pt.1)
On the day Socrates died (469-399 BC), it was clear that he would go down in history as one of the great philosophers in the Western world, someone who thoughts would be discussed in classrooms and hallways for centuries after he was gone. His contribution to the field of ethics and logic is renown, as … Continue reading Parables of the Growing Kingdom (Pt.1)
The Discipline of the Long Distance Race
Have a slow read through these amazing insights from the author of the book of Hebrews (I've made bold the phrases that jumped out to me): "Do you see what this means - all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip … Continue reading The Discipline of the Long Distance Race