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!
Just a Mom: How Your Work in the Home Reflects God’s Character
“What do you do?”
“Oh, I’m just a mom.”
Just a mom.
I must have said it a thousand times as a young mother, feeling the weight of my daily tasks that seemed never-ending and often unnoticed. Yet, the Bible reveals a different truth about motherhood—a holy calling filled with purpose and significance. From the stories of heroic mothers like Hannah and Mary to the wisdom of Proverbs 31, we see that being a mom is not just a job; it’s a reflection of God’s character. You are not “just a mom.” You are the image of God.
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!
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.
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.
Tracing Gospel Threads in Unexpected Places
My husband has an uncanny memory when it comes to gifts we’ve received, and while I appreciate them in the moment, my gratitude often fades. This summer, as we travel to Greece, Italy, and Turkey, I’ve been reflecting on a gift I’ve already received: God’s Word. The sacrifices made by the early church to preserve this gift reveal their profound love for us. Are we honoring this priceless treasure? Let’s explore how we can elevate God’s Word in our lives and ensure the next generation knows the immeasurable grace of Jesus.
What is Sanctification?
Sanctification is a profound journey that every believer embarks on after putting their faith in Jesus. While we are justified and declared righteous at salvation, the reality of our daily lives reveals a different story. We don’t become instantly perfect; instead, we enter a lifelong process of growing in likeness to Christ. This transformative journey, often referred to as progressive sanctification, involves ups and downs, but ultimately leads us toward greater holiness. Discover the different dimensions of sanctification and how it shapes our spiritual maturity and relationship with God throughout our lives.
Regarding The Gen X Gospel
No one in the Gen X generation can hear the words “Into the flood again…” without immediately hearing Layne Staley’s iconic voice. This lyric from Alice in Chains’ “Would?” captures a profound existential question: “Have I run too far to get home?” It resonates deeply with our longing for a place where things are as they should be. In a world filled with doubts and brokenness, can we reclaim what was lost? Discover how the Gospel answers this question and reveals that salvation is not about going home, but about God making His home with us.
Killing the Characters: Mistake #1 in Teaching the Bible
Have you ever felt like you’re missing something when teaching the Bible? I certainly have. In my journey, I discovered three common mistakes that many Bible teachers make, one of which is “killing the characters.” We often overlook the rich backstories of biblical figures, rushing to application without considering their context. By allowing these characters to “live” in our messages, we can provide deeper understanding and relevance for our listeners. Join me as I explore how to keep the characters alive and enhance the impact of our teachings!