When You’d Rather Control Than Submit

I’m to submit because I’m the wife? This thought raced through my mind as my son rebelled in the back seat, and I felt the tension rise. My husband urged me to stop lecturing, but my desire for control clashed with the call to submit. In that moment, I realized both my son and I were resisting authority. Could it be that God, in asking me to submit, was actually protecting me? As I wrestled with my flesh, I discovered that yielding to my husband might just invite God’s blessing into my life. What happens next is a lesson in surrender.

Regarding Church Discipline

In a world where church hurt is a trending hashtag, where tolerance is considered the highest virtue, and where authority is often viewed with suspicion, what role does church discipline have in today’s church?  First off, what is church discipline – because that’s not actually a phrase you’ll find in the Bible.  9Marks defines it this way: “Church discipline is…

Regarding Gluttony: Part Four

As we explore the battle against gluttony through the lens of Philippians 3:17-21, we discover that godliness offers us a powerful antidote. It inspires us to behold Christ’s example, challenges us to pursue purpose over pleasure, and fills us with anticipation for His return. In a world that often succumbs to greed, we are called to live as reflections of Christ, embracing strength, bravery, and love. Join us as we delve into how godliness not only transforms our lives but also shapes our eternal hope, reminding us that while gluttony seeks the moment, godliness lives for forever.

Regarding Pride Month

Let me begin with my thesis: if pride is a sin and pride feeds on attention, then attention is the last thing we should give it. This is why I do not typically respond to Pride Month—not out of hate, but out of love for a community that is celebrated for wedding itself to the…

Regarding Gluttony: Part One

Gluttony is often dismissed as merely a food problem, but it reveals a deeper spiritual issue rooted in excess and lack of discipline. In a world where we indulge without boundaries, we find ourselves trapped in a cycle of overconsumption, leading to emptiness and dissatisfaction. As we explore Philippians 3:17-21, we’ll uncover how gluttony presents a wrong model of living, contrasting it with the selfless life Christ exemplifies. Are we truly free, or are we slaves to our desires? Join us as we delve into this critical topic and discover a path to a more meaningful life.

The Vital Role of Church Planting

In a world where community and faith often intertwine, the act of church planting emerges as a vital mission. Join us as we delve into an enlightening conversation with Ethan Ezikian, a dedicated Pastor at Union Church in Howell, MI. Discover the profound significance of establishing new congregations and how they serve as beacons of hope and connection in our communities. Ethan shares insights rooted in scripture, illustrating the biblical foundation for this transformative work. Whether you’re a seasoned believer or simply curious about the role of faith in society, this discussion promises to inspire and challenge your perspective on church planting.

What Does it Mean to Make a Profession of Faith?

Maybe you’ve been asked the question before – “have you made a profession of faith?” This concept is not just a church tradition; it has deep biblical roots. Scripture emphasizes that true faith in Jesus should be expressed outwardly, as seen in Romans 10:9-10. Throughout church history, believers have participated in ceremonies to publicly profess their faith, from confirmation in Catholicism to practices in Reformed and Baptist churches. But how does this relate to church membership and baptism? Join us as we explore the significance of making a profession of faith and its impact on your spiritual journey.

Regarding The Cup Jesus Prayed Against

On the eve of Jesus’ crucifixion, he prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, pleading for a “cup” to be removed from him. But what was this cup that filled him with such anguish? It was not merely the impending crucifixion; it was the cup of God’s wrath he was destined to drink for the sins of mankind. As he faced this profound spiritual turmoil, his body reacted in a rare condition known as hematidrosis, causing him to sweat blood. Discover the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice and the significance of the cup he ultimately embraced.

Regarding My Egalitarian Experience and My Complementarian Conversion 

In my journey from an egalitarian upbringing to embracing complementarianism, I found myself wrestling with profound theological questions. Growing up in an egalitarian church, I experienced the beauty of diverse roles within the faith community. Yet, after extensive study and reflection, I became convinced that the Bible clearly teaches distinct roles for men and women in the church and home. This conviction was solidified by a particular passage in 1 Timothy that connects leadership in the church with the responsibilities of the home. Join me as I explore this transformative journey and the biblical foundations that shaped my beliefs.

Misinterpreted: Matthew 16:24

It’s a phrase many people associate with Christianity: “Deny yourself.” For some, it’s a killjoy, suggesting that faith is about suppressing joy and becoming miserable. But when Jesus said it in Matthew 16:24, He meant something far deeper. This isn’t about small sacrifices like skipping dessert; it’s about surrendering lordship over your life. Jesus calls us to release our idols—namely ourselves—because the self is a terrible god. Discover how denying yourself can lead to true freedom and a life that reflects who you were truly created to be. Dive deeper into this transformative truth!

Learning Moses’ Ministry Lessons

In the dynamic world of ministry, the lessons from Moses’ journey are more relevant than ever. As large ministries expand, the challenge of leadership can become overwhelming. Discover how Moses’ father-in-law offered transformative wisdom that not only lightened the load but also fostered a sustainable approach to shared responsibilities. This biblical insight is crucial for any growing ministry seeking to thrive amidst increasing demands. Join us as we explore these timeless principles that can reshape your ministry’s future and ensure it remains vibrant and effective in its mission. Don’t miss out on these essential lessons for sustainable growth!

Regarding Gentiles

“Gentiles” is a term frequently encountered in the New Testament, representing a crucial category of people in Scripture. But who exactly are the Gentiles? In its simplest form, Gentiles are anyone who is not Jewish, encompassing all nations and ethnic groups. This article delves into the origins of the word, its theological implications, and how its meaning shifts between the Old and New Testaments. Discover how understanding this term can enrich your reading of the Bible and reveal God’s expansive plan for humanity, extending His Gospel to all nations, both Jew and Gentile.