Created for Rest
Resting. It’s not something our generation is particularly good at, nor is it a high priority for us. We are overstimulated, overworked, and overly focused on the wrong things. But the practice of resting is important to God, so it should be important to us too. From the very beginning, God established a rhythm of work and rest, culminating in the Sabbath—a gift meant to rejuvenate our spirits. As we explore the significance of rest in our lives, we discover that it’s not just a pause from work, but a vital connection to our Creator and a glimpse of the peace to come.
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 Two
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.
Misinterpreted: Luke 14:26
In Luke 14:26, Jesus makes a shocking statement: “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children… he cannot be my disciple.” At first glance, this seems to contradict the Bible’s call to love and honor our families. So, what does Jesus really mean? This verse challenges us to examine our loyalties and recognize that our love for Him must surpass all other relationships. Discover how prioritizing Christ transforms our ability to love others rightly and why following Him may require difficult choices. Are you ready to explore this deeper truth?
Identifying a Fascist
Nothing reveals bias or ignorance like misusing the term “fascist.” It refers to a specific political movement that prioritizes nation and race over the individual, supports autocratic rule, and suppresses opposition. In this exploration, we’ll clarify the definition and ensure we use this powerful word correctly, respecting its history and avoiding misuse in today’s discourse.
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.
Avoiding the Burnout Trap
We all know how it goes: a new volunteer joins the youth ministry with joy and high hopes, only to leave sad and embittered a short time later. This is the story of burnout—a common off-ramp for many volunteers in student ministry. But can we help them avoid it? The answer is YES! By understanding what burnout truly is and clearly defining the role of a student ministry volunteer, we can create an environment that fosters growth and fulfillment. Discover how clarity and thoughtful guidance can transform your ministry and support your volunteers in their calling.
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!