Text: Proverbs 29:9 It is easy for discussions on controversial topics to become contentious, even in religion. Contentious discussions can consume our time and mental energy if we allow them to. Questions are often used to draw us into discussions, and some of these are good (cf. 1 Peter 3:15). But some questions do not […]
July 28, 2025
Point Out These Things to the Brethren
Text: 1 Timothy 4:6 A preacher’s job is not to find some “new” thing to present to his audience every time he preaches. He is to “preach the word” (2 Timothy 4:2), which means he will inform, challenge, and remind the brethren. In our text, Paul explained the importance of preachers reminding the brethren. This can […]
March 24, 2025
Accusations Against Truth Teachers
Text: John 15:18-21 Those who are opposed to the truth will naturally be opposed to those who speak the truth. Jesus came “to testify to the truth” (John 18:37) and was crucified for it. He warned that we will receive the same kind of treatment. We also see this throughout the book of Acts. We […]
November 11, 2024
Producing and Developing Disciples
Text: 2 Timothy 2:1-7 Paul began this chapter by telling Timothy of his role in making disciples (v. 2). He mentioned three “occupations” that illustrated Timothy’s work as a preacher. Two of these were directly related to the work of making disciples (soldier and farmer). In a related passage, Paul mentioned another “occupation” – a […]
December 21, 2020
Unlikely Converts
Text: James 2:1-4 Sometimes when we think of evangelism and converting the lost, we may have a picture in our minds of the type of person who would be receptive. If we’re not careful, we could subconsciously reject/overlook some who may have otherwise been interested (the single mother, the person with tattoos, the immigrant who speaks broken […]
March 11, 2020
Rules for Religious Discussions
Text: 1 Peter 3:15 It is incumbent upon all Christians to be ready to teach others. Our text describes teaching that is done in the course of a discussion. How do we make the best use of our opportunities to discuss the Scriptures with others? Be Willing to Defend the Truth Paul, as an apostle, was “appointed […]
