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!
When Mother’s Day Hurts
“Happy Mother’s Day,” the greeter at the church spoke with a smile as I entered into church. That simple greeting, spoken in kindness, brought me to tears. He had no idea I had just lost my unborn child 3 weeks prior. Mother’s Day is a day of celebration, but it can also bring a wave of sorrow for many. Whether you’re grieving a loss, longing for a child, or feeling distant from your own mother, know that God sees your pain. Join me as we explore how to find hope and healing in the midst of heartache this Mother’s Day.
Regarding Five Things That Jesus Said that Everyone Would Rather Forget
We often hear a lopsided portrayal of Jesus, one that softens his teachings to fit our preferences. Yet, the truth is that Jesus made bold statements that challenge us deeply. From calling us to repentance to declaring his oneness with the Father, his words demand our attention and reflection. In a world eager to forget the harder truths, these five quotes remind us that Jesus is not just a figure to admire but the King of Kings deserving of our worship. Dive into these powerful teachings and discover why they are essential to understanding who Jesus truly is.
Stranger Things… From the Bible
Dive into the unexpected connections between “Stranger Things” and the Bible in our latest episode! Discover the intriguing stories of Jeremiah’s underwear, Samson’s gamble over clothing, and a prophet who walked naked for three years. These surprising moments challenge our understanding of shame and identity, revealing profound insights about what it means to be truly clothed. Join Stephanie as she weaves together these narratives, uncovering the powerful and recurring theme of clothing throughout Scripture. Don’t miss this captivating exploration that promises to change the way you view both the show and the ancient text!
Misinterpreted: Matthew 22:1-14
It’s a comforting idea: God invites everyone, so in the end, everyone will be fine. But that’s not what Jesus teaches in Matthew 22:1-14. This parable of a wedding feast reveals a surprising truth: while the invitation is wide, not everyone responds rightly. What happens when a guest shows up without the proper attire? This uncomfortable moment challenges our assumptions about grace and acceptance. Discover the deeper meaning behind the invitation and what it truly means to belong at the King’s table. Are you ready to explore the difference between being invited and being chosen?
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.
Coming Out of Catholicism
What is the difference between Protestant and Roman Catholic theology, and why does it still matter 500 years after the Reformation? In this enlightening two-part series, we delve into the heart of the Reformation, exploring the critical teachings that shape our understanding of salvation. Discover the contrasting views on authority, as we examine Scripture alone versus the Roman Catholic emphasis on Tradition. Engage with the official Roman Catholic Catechism and uncover the profound implications of being saved by grace alone through faith alone. Join us on this journey to seek the truth in love and deepen your faith.
Christianity and Politics
Does the Bible have a place in the political arena? In our four-part series, we delve into the vital intersection of faith and governance, offering a grounded, theological framework for living as a faithful citizen in a complex world. Discover why politics is not a distraction from the Christian mission, but a means to love our neighbors. Unpack the historical roots of our nation and learn how to navigate the challenges of civil disobedience while respecting governing authorities. If you’re seeking clarity amidst the political noise, this series equips you to be a transformative presence in our culture.
Misinterpreted: Matthew 7:1
It might be the most quoted verse in our culture: “Don’t judge me.” But what if we’ve misinterpreted it? In Matthew 7:1, Jesus warns against hypocritical judgment, not all judgment. He calls us to examine our own lives before addressing others. The real challenge lies in how we approach judgment—are we harsh and self-righteous, or loving and restorative? Discover the deeper meaning behind this often-misunderstood verse and learn how to speak truth with humility and grace. Dive into the conversation and explore what it truly means to judge wisely and compassionately.