Since the birth of our fallen nature, humans have continued thirsting for equality with God, wanting to know or even control his thoughts. Humanity is rarely satisfied with the Word, God revealed to us in Christ. Instead we seek to comprehend the incomprehensible, the almighty God—and in the end we often replace him with something... Continue Reading

This past Sunday, I preached a sermon from Matthew 18:21-35, where Jesus teaches his followers that God’s forgiveness of us shows us why and how to forgive others. In conclusion, I attempted to answer some of the most common pastoral questions I receive. I share them here hoping they provide some help or at least provoke... Continue Reading

Maybe you think, “It’s too late; not even God could save me.” Or maybe you are a Christian, but you look at your life and wonder if you will make it to the end. Here’s what the Bible says about Jesus Christ, “He is able to save completely those who come to God through him.” (Hebrews... Continue Reading

How many of us have comforted our neighbor (or one another) with a reminder that the sinner in the church is little different than the sinner outside? “We are all broken,” it is assured. “We are all miserable failures,” is the refrain. To hear it from some, a mere profession of faith is the only... Continue Reading

The full biblical picture the Lord paints for us is that of a Shepherd-Warrior who cares for His sheep, lovingly disciplines His sheep, rescues His sheep, and protects His sheep from themselves and from their enemies. This is why Jesus calls Himself the Great Shepherd, and He does not drive His sheep with a whip... Continue Reading

Studying the history of the church soberly reminds us that we take our place in the ranks of the army of God. We take up the same battle-beaten armor that the saints of old used. We use the same weapon, the gospel of Jesus Christ. And we fight, not only to continue our heritage but... Continue Reading

It is Jesus’ obedience that saves us, not our own. Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men. For as by the one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man’s obedience the many will be... Continue Reading

“And see that you make them after the pattern for them, which is being shown you on the mountain” (Ex. 25:40). In other words, God was not interested in Moses’ input. God explained to Moses how God wanted to be worshiped. This very text from Exodus is quoted by the author to the letter to... Continue Reading

“Psalm 81 renews God’s call to His people to listen to His proclamation of truth. For what was Israel to listen? First, Israel needed to hear God’s word of deliverance. This psalm calls on Israel in very personal terms and very directly to remember how their God had delivered them in the past.”   Psalm... Continue Reading

“The centerpiece of family worship is the Bible. Read a passage of appropriate length for your family, making any impromptu comments that come to mind. Those with younger children should emphasize the narrative portions of Scripture, and possibly the Proverbs.”   My spiritual mentor began worshiping with his wife before they were married, and has... Continue Reading