The Wise, Mighty, and Noble
Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:26, “For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called.” The word for “not many” doesn’t mean that there were none. There were not many of the Corinthians who were wise according to the flesh, influential in […]
Hate the Sin — and the Sinner
An incredibly popular religious slogan declares, “Hate the sin but love the sinner”. This of course must assume that “God hates the sin but not the sinner”. Properly understood, these are true statements. But the “slogan machine” of our modern society has run farther than the Bible, I believe. It may be uncomfortable to a […]
The Golden Text of the Bible: The Greatest Being Is God
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life”. This may be the most well-known passage in the Bible, and it is well-known for good reason. It sums up the entirety of the gospel message in […]
“I Don’t Do Social Media”
While I think I understand not only what people mean by the statement, “I don’t do social media,” and at least to some degree, why they might feel and act accordingly, is it really true? “Social” simply means having to do with society, and “media” is a means of communication. I presume people making such […]
Public Confession of Sin
QUESTION: “Since there is neither command nor example of a confession of sin being made before the church, where is the authority for such a long-time practice?” REPLY: First, it is good that scriptural authority is desired and demanded (Matthew 28:20; Colossians 3:17; 2 Timothy 1:13). Indeed, we must have such authority, else our work […]
Convert or Die?
A new computer game, called Left Behind: Eternal Forces, inspired by a series of fictional Christian novels that have sold 60 million copies since they came out ten years ago, is causing quite a stir. The series by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins is based on their false interpretation of Revelation and takes place after […]
The Gospel … and Dentistry?
“Open wider,” requested the dentist as he began his examination. “Oh, no!” he said. “You’ve got the biggest cavity I’ve ever seen — the biggest cavity I’ve ever seen.” “Okay, Doc!” replied the patient. “I’m scared enough without you saying it twice.” “I didn’t!” said the dentist. “That was the echo.” I did something this past […]
How Have You Been Living Your Life?
A little over a year ago, I and all the people in my training unit (or flight) were divided into smaller groups, along with other flights from multiple squadrons on base, and directed into gas chambers. The purpose of sending us into these rooms was so that those who have made the commitment to serve […]
Illegal Immigrants
Illegal immigration is a hot topic, both politically and socially, for there are millions of people in America who want the benefits and privileges of citizenship without going through the proper channels. Though they blend in and look in a way to be citizens, they really aren’t citizens. They don’t really enjoy the benefits of […]
Why Be a Christian?
Most people think if you have money, you have all the advantages in life — the disciples thought the same way. But Jesus showed that riches can be a distinct disadvantage (Mark 10:23-31). We want to show that the real advantages in this life are to those who are following Christ: A hope of God. […]