Sheep, Wolves, Serpents, and Doves

Text: Matthew 10:16 In this chapter, Jesus sent His twelve apostles out on the “limited commission” (Matthew 10:5-7). There are some similarities between their commission and our responsibilities today. We are as sheep in the midst of wolves, so we must be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves. Sent Out as Sheep We are in a […]

Are Some Sins Worse Than Others?

Text: John 19:11 People often want to think of degrees of sin – some being greater than others. Some sins are seen as being especially bad (murder/rape), while others are considered virtually innocent (“a little white lie”). Is it Biblical to think of sins in this way? Are some sins worse than others? Yes and no. Let […]

The Word of Reconciliation

Text: 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 The word reconciliation means a restoration of divine favor. In other words, it is about bringing man back into a right relationship with God. Paul emphasized reconciliation in our text and explained that it involves the work of God, the gospel, those who proclaim the gospel, and those who would be reconciled. Reconciled Through […]

Lessons from Paul’s Letter to Philemon

Text: Philemon 1 Philemon was a wealthier Christian who lived in Colossae or the surrounding area. Onesimus was Philemon’s slave who had run away, met Paul, and obeyed the gospel. Paul was sending him back to Philemon along with this letter. This lesson discusses what we can learn from Paul’s letter to Philemon. Develop a Reputation for Good […]

Words Associated with Sin

Text: 1 John 3:4 There are several words in the New Testament that refer to sin. Sometimes these words can be used interchangeably and there is a lot of overlap in meaning between them. But there are also some subtle differences in their meanings. We will consider some of these words here in order to get a […]

Instructions Regarding the Lord’s Supper

Text: 1 Corinthians 11:23-34 Paul gave the brethren in Corinth instructions regarding the Lord’s Supper while also correcting some errors about it. It is important that we are periodically reminded of topics like this one. We need to observe the Lord’s Supper properly. Instructions Were Given by the Lord (1 Corinthians 11:23) Paul received this from the […]

The Death of Jesus

Text: Luke 23:44-47 The previous lesson discussed the life of Jesus – He perfectly fulfilled the Father’s will, even in His death. In this lesson, we will examine the death of Jesus and what we should learn from it. God’s Plan Part of His predetermined plan (Acts 2:23) – “Lamb slain from the foundation of the world” […]