In Acts 9, the Lord mercifully redeems a murderer and persecutor of His people. God uses a previously unknown man by the name of Ananias as a gospel messenger to Saul. Father, give me the spirit of Ananias that is ready to go where you send me and to do whatever you bid me. Thank … Continue reading Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners
The Responsible Use of Gospel Freedom
Here are a few helpful quotes on how we are to use our gospel freedom responsibly. Remember that God's kingdom is not eating and drinking but living together in the righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit; so serve Christ, not yourselves, with your eating and drinking. — Nelson Kloosterman A Christian is a … Continue reading The Responsible Use of Gospel Freedom
When Your Church Frustrates You… Remember
Ray Ortlund Jr. writes in his commentary on Isaiah that "every faithful church is a gateway into the future of the world." If we are honest, it doesn’t seem that way at times. We are quickly annoyed, frustrated, and challenged by living, worshiping and serving Jesus together as vital participants in the body of Christ. … Continue reading When Your Church Frustrates You… Remember
A Divine Appointment
Recently, I was studying Acts 8 and Philip's divine appointment with the Ethiopian eunuch and I came across this captivating story of a divine appointment. In 1985 Clarence Duncan arrived in Africa as missionary to the solidly Muslim people called the Yao who live mainly in Tanzania, Mozambique, and Malawi. When he settled in his … Continue reading A Divine Appointment
Why do we corporately confess our sins in public worship?
Here's a excellent and brief explanation by Carl Trueman in his article entitled, "A Word to the Conscience." It can access the article in its entirety here: http://thegospelcoalition.org/themelios At some point prior to the sermon each Sunday in my church, the minister or elder leading the service will read a passage of Scripture designed to … Continue reading Why do we corporately confess our sins in public worship?
The Influence of Jesus Christ
Kenneth Latourette in his seven-volume work on the history of the expansion of Christianity summaries the influence of Jesus Christ: No life ever lived on this planet has been so influential in the affairs of men like the life of Jesus Christ. From that brief life and its apparent frustration has flowed a more powerful … Continue reading The Influence of Jesus Christ
A Most Arresting Advertisement to the Gospel’s Power
"Joy is at the heart of satisfied living. It is also at the heart of real and credible Christianity, the Christianity that glorifies God and shakes the world. Joy is not only ‘the serious business of heaven,’ it is also central to serious godliness on earth. 'The kingdom of God is not a matter of … Continue reading A Most Arresting Advertisement to the Gospel’s Power
Transformed by Our Heavenly Defense Attorney
Focusing on Jesus Christ as our heavenly advocate changes us in three fundamental ways: We can take bold risks to communicate Jesus Christ to others. How do you think Stephen was enabled to take such bold risks? What do you think he was most burdened to communicate? We can extend mercy and forgiveness to those … Continue reading Transformed by Our Heavenly Defense Attorney
That’s My King! A Great Way to Prepare for Worship Today
That's My King by Dr. S. M. Lockridge
Enduring Earthly Frowns with Heaven’s Smile – Acts 7
Attached is the link for our Vespers service that focuses on Acts 7 and the sermon and sufferings of Stephen. Enduring Earthly Frowns with Heaven's Smile