Sowing and Reaping

Text: Galatians 6:9 God created the world, and it operates according to the rules He established. This includes times of “seedtime and harvest” (Genesis 8:22). The outcome of the harvest depends (in part) on what was planted, when it was planted, and how it was done. This illustration of sowing and reaping is used throughout […]

Taking Meals Together

Text: Acts 2:46-47 The New Testament repeatedly emphasizes the togetherness of brethren in the early church. Shortly after the church was established, the first Christians were meeting and eating together. Many churches today host “fellowship meals” – meals hosted by a congregation and conducted as part of the church’s work. But was Luke describing a church-sponsored meal? […]

Judged by the Law of Liberty

Text: James 2:12-13 James said we will be “judged by the law of liberty” or “the law that gives freedom” (NIV). This should affect how we “speak” and “act.” So what does this mean? What is the “law of liberty”? How does recognizing this affect our lives? And how does this impact our view of […]

Friendship with the World

Text: James 4:4 James warned Christians about “friendship with the world.” He used very strong language, saying that one who “wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.” Knowing this danger, it is vitally important that we know what this means. In this lesson, we are going to discuss […]

The Great Gain of Godliness

Text: 1 Timothy 6:3-10 There are many investments that one can make (stocks, real estate, collectibles, cryptocurrency, etc.). All of these have to do with financial growth and security in this life. Yet there are certain investments we are to make that are spiritual in nature, and these are most important. In this series, we […]

Under the Influence

Text: Ephesians 5:18 Being “under the influence” typically refers to the use of alcohol. In our text, Paul mentioned alcohol, but he also mentioned another influence that can affect our behavior – the Spirit. Paul contrasted them because they both affect our behavior, but in different ways. Alcohol influences us toward the direction of “debauchery” (NIV, […]

A Christian’s Ambition

Text: 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 Many in the world see ambition as a desirable trait. It is the attitude that drives one to continue progressing, advancing, and improving. Generally, it is necessary if one is to enjoy any degree of success or prosperity. Christians are to be ambitious, but the focus of our ambition will differ from the world. […]