In context, an example of how to build a church upon something else is to build it upon someone else. Not understanding how the ministries of Paul, Apollos, and Peter (Cephas) complemented one another, people were dividing themselves as being followers of one or the other (cf. 1 Cor 3:4, 22). They were boasting in... Continue Reading

When people in our congregation meet people from their congregation, they can say with enthusiasm, “Your pastor spoke at our church last month. It was great!” So connections are being formed and strengthened among Christian neighbors, for the good of the kingdom.   It’s easy for reformed churches, and Christians in those churches, to feel... Continue Reading

What does it mean for God to be God? In this world of rapid change, technological advancement, and medical breakthroughs, sometimes it is easy to lose sight of that which makes God God. So read this slowly, and hear the claims of the Divine: So in this world that is infatuated with all things new, let... Continue Reading

These biblical provisions are clear signs of concern and care for the poor and the needy, but modern solutions diverge sharply in how they address the same problems. First, Mosaic Law did provide a “safety net” to catch any of the poor and needy facing hard times, but government was very limited in this role.... Continue Reading

“Like any skilled artisan or craftsman, a pastor learns by both observation and doing. He learns his trade by practicing his craft. He is habituated—shaped and formed into a shepherd of souls—by being actively engaged in the work of shepherding.”   Have you ever read an “if this is true…” book? An “if this is... Continue Reading

“I can’t” is not nearly as powerful as the rationale “I don’t” because it’s a mere restriction. When we say “I can’t,” we don’t dive into our identity. We instead imagine ourselves confined. “I can’t” implies if we had our choice, we would give in. “I don’t,” on the other hand, directs us to our... Continue Reading

It shouldn’t really shock to see Yahweh’s consistent, loving, trait – Psalm 23:5-6 concludes with good, covenant, loyalty (or chesed) in hot, overtaking, pursuit (as Joseph was taught in Egypt, as slave, in cell, or with power, from blessing which hunts down there can be no escape: the love is always at work for good).  ... Continue Reading

 Daniel Wallace is a first-rate New Testament scholar. He specializes in New Testament manuscript tradition and curation, and he understands the persuasive power of these inspired texts. On that page, you’ll see an article by Dr. Wallace for every book of the New Testament. Each article contains an “introduction, argument, and outline” for the book.   When... Continue Reading

Because Emperor Constantine confessed himself to be a Christian and Theodosius later made Christianity the official religion of the empire, significant numbers of people now began to attend church and identify with Christianity, many of whom had never truly converted. In one sense this was positive—scores of people were now exposed to the Word of... Continue Reading

The calling of God upon us as his people is to be holy—as God is holy (1 Pet. 1:16). If we can gather for worship on a weekly basis and it doesn’t change us and cause us to become more conformed the image of God’s Son—we have not worshiped God properly (Rom. 8:29). John MacArthur... Continue Reading