Text: Matthew 10:5-15 In our text, Jesus gave His apostles a “limited commission.” If people did not receive them, they were to shake the dust off their feet – a symbolic gesture indicating that the apostles were not responsible (they did what they could) and the people were accountable for their rejection of the message. This was also […]
May 30, 2022
Remember the Fallen
Text: Matthew 24:9 Memorial Day is a time to remember those who died while serving in the armed forces. It is good to appreciate the sacrifices that helped make it possible for us to live a quiet and peaceful life (1 Timothy 2:2). The New Testament also tells of some who died, not for a country, but […]
November 1, 2021
Dangers on the Safe Side (Part 4): Avoiding Persecution
Text: Hebrews 10:32-39 This is the fourth and final lesson in a series about dangers that exist “on the safe side.” This phrase means “avoiding danger, with a margin for error” (definition). Sometimes this is fine or even wise, but there is a difference between wisdom and safety. Sometimes they overlap, but not always. At times, staying “on the safe […]
November 30, 2020
Conduct Yourselves in a Manner Worthy of the Gospel
Text: Philippians 1:27-30 When Paul wrote to the church at Philippi, there were very few problems that he needed to address. These brethren were faithfully following the Lord and were an encouragement to the apostle. So he encouraged them to continue serving the Lord in a way that would please Him. He told them to “conduct [themselves] in a manner […]
July 20, 2020
Psalm 23 and the Christian
Text: Psalm 23 The 23rd psalm is one of the most well-known and well-loved passages in the Bible. It helps provide comfort, encouragement, and peace as we go through a harsh and wicked world. It was written during the time of the old law, yet there are certainly lessons that apply to us as Christians. “The Lord […]
May 18, 2020
The Foundations for the Righteous
Text: Psalm 11:1-7 In this psalm, David described the adversity and opposition he faced from his enemies. Yet he could take refuge in the Lord. He was secure as long as “the foundations” remained secure. “In the Lord I take refuge” (v. 1) When we are in need of help, we need to turn to the […]
November 20, 2019
Does Persecution Cause the Church to Grow?
Text: Acts 8:1-4 The early church faced much persecution. They also experienced a lot of growth. We don’t experience the same persecution today. We also don’t see the same rate of growth (generally). This has caused some to wonder if we might see more growth if we experienced persecution. So we’re going to consider the question: Does persecution […]
