Following Paul’s Example

Text: 2 Timothy 3:10-11 In our text, Paul wrote to Timothy about how the young evangelist had followed the apostle’s example in various ways. Examples are important. Paul knew that he needed to set an example to others (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:1). What about us? Are we setting the example that we need to set before […]

Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

Text: Psalm 139:13-14 The Bible clearly identifies God as the creator of all things. Our text makes this personal as each one of us has been created by Him. We have been “fearfully and wonderfully made.” This statement teaches certain things about us, and certain mentalities and behaviors that have become common in our society are the result of forgetting […]

Answering Basic Questions (Part 3): What Is the Meaning of Life?

Text: 1 Peter 3:15 In our text, Peter explained that each Christian needs to be ready to give an answer for what we believe. Giving a defense for the HOPE within us requires an ability to articulate the basics of our faith. In this series, we are going to discuss some basic questions that may […]

Developing a Resilient Faith

Text: 1 Peter 1:3-9 I recently read the book, Faith for Exiles: 5 Ways for a New Generation to Follow Jesus in Digital Babylon by David Kinnaman and Mark Matlock. The book described how living in today’s godless and digital society is like living in exile (like Babylonian captivity). Based on research of 18-29 year olds who […]

The Christian and Minimalism

Text: Colossians 2:8 When Paul wrote to the Colossians, he warned about human philosophy leading us away from Christ. Today, many promote the philosophy of minimalism. Some concepts in this philosophy will be appealing to many, even if they don’t embrace it in its entirety. What is minimalism? What place, if any, does it have […]

Why Would Anyone Be a Christian?

Text: 1 Corinthians 15:19 In the previous lesson, we talked about the demands of discipleship. Many are unwilling to do what is required to be a disciple. Furthermore, they do not understand why ANYONE would do this. So in this lesson, we are going to answer this question: Why would anyone be a Christian? Christians Have Hope This world […]

Warning to Kings

Text: Jeremiah 22:13-17 This passage comes between addresses to two of Josiah’s sons who reigned after him – Shallum/Jehoahaz (Jeremiah 22:1-12; 2 Kings 23:30-33) and Jehoiakim/Eliakim (Jeremiah 22:18-30; 2 Kings 23:34-37). Shallum/Jehoahaz was made king by the people (2 Kings 23:30). Jehoiakim was made king by Pharaoh Neco (2 Kings 23:34). Both did evil in […]