Why is the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ so important?

The bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ is essential because it proves everything the gospel claims. It confirms Jesus as the true Messiah, the very sign he promised to give. It shows that his atoning work was fully accepted, that the ransom for sin was paid, and that we are justified. His resurrection gives believers new … Continue reading Why is the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ so important?

Stand Firm, Dear Followers of the Lamb!

One of my devotionals that I am reading this year is called Magnificent Prayer by Nick Harrison. Today’s reading is particularly appropriate for what we are seeing in our country and world right now. Let us not forget who our real enemy is and let us use one of our primary weapons to engage the … Continue reading Stand Firm, Dear Followers of the Lamb!

Maundy Thursday and the Mark of a Christian

The Mark of the Christian (John 13:31-38) The text upon which this teaching outline is based is normally assigned to Maundy Thursday. The Latin word for commandment is mandatum. This commandment that Jesus gave was the old commandment with which Moses himself summarized the whole law, but Jesus made it new by highlighting three things: … Continue reading Maundy Thursday and the Mark of a Christian

Reflections for Palm Sunday Worship

No word in my vocabulary expressed deeper hatred than the word interference. And the Bible placed at the center what seemed to me a Transcendental Interferer. —  C.S. Lewis Glorious as Jesus is in Himself, as a conqueror over death, and hell, and the grave, the Son of God is still ‘meek and lowly of … Continue reading Reflections for Palm Sunday Worship

Praying Scripture | 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12

At the beginning of 2023, I am beginning a sermon series on "What Matters Most." The first thing that matters most is that we possess true, saving faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. According to the below passage, the possession of true, saving faith in Jesus not only transforms our ultimate destiny but also how … Continue reading Praying Scripture | 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12

Praying Scripture | Revelation 22:6–21

Preparation: Pray and Read Through Your Passage Record your prayer for God’s help. Father, your desire to reveal your will and plan to your servants is greater than our desire to know it. As we study your Word, grant us a growing capacity to trust and obey you in all things. For, you promise to … Continue reading Praying Scripture | Revelation 22:6–21

Praying Scripture | Matthew 25:31–46

Preparation: Pray and Read Through Your Passage Record your prayer for God’s help. King Jesus, we desire to be those who are eternally blessed by your Father. So, we ask that the door into your everlasting kingdom be opened for us. Give us the grace to hear your Spirit speaking to us through your Word … Continue reading Praying Scripture | Matthew 25:31–46

When Your Flesh and Heart Fail

Sandy Ford was a year ahead of me in college. We lived in the same dorm. I admired him during our days in Chapel Hill because he was known on campus as a contagious Christian… one who took His commitment and faith in Jesus very seriously. He was a leader with a campus ministry called … Continue reading When Your Flesh and Heart Fail

Advent Week #2: Relinquishing Riches To Make Us Rich

We all have difficulty relinquishing things that we cherish. I still remember my first ten-speed bicycle. It was a fully equipped, Schwinn beauty that I received as a Christmas present. Not long after I received it, I allowed a friend to borrow it for a quick ride. She proceeded to get hit by a car … Continue reading Advent Week #2: Relinquishing Riches To Make Us Rich

The Danger of Losing Your First Love

This past Sunday I preached from Revelation 2:1-7 where our exalted Lord challenges the church at Ephesus for abandoning their first love. The sermon focused on the five things that our heavenly Bridegroom does to woo back his loveless bride - the church. Preaching on this text has led to some serious soul searching for … Continue reading The Danger of Losing Your First Love