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The Christian life is a war between the satanic forces of evil and the gospel of Christ. “Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Eph.6:10). “Fight the good fight of the faith” (I Tim.6:12). Thus, Christians must be good soldiers.  A good soldier is eager to teach and share the gospel. We are to take “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph.6:17).…

The above statement is made by Lydia after her baptism in an effort to persuade the teachers (Paul, Silas, Timothy and Luke) to use her house as a headquarters during their stay in Philippi (Acts 16:15).  There are direct arguments for the necessity of baptism for salvation. For example, notice Ananias’ words to Saul “arise, be baptized, washing away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16). There are also subtle arguments for baptism which are just…

No one was ever as isolated as Jesus on the cross. Though there were people on the ground at the foot of the cross, being lifted up in the air on that cross in wrenching pain for six hours is complete loneliness and isolation. What did Jesus do during this time? He prayed. “Father, into thy hands, I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46). He forgave. “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). He reached out.…

In response to the present crisis, some are quick to point to God. He is bringing this upon us to teach us a lesson, they say. I have seen articles online entitled, “God is Shouting, Are You Listening?” or “This is the Finger of God.” I have people say, “God is showing us we can live without certain things or He is showing us the importance of family time, etc.” Slow down. Yes, in history, the Lord has used calamities…

Without a doubt, welcoming each other is an important quality for all Christians. Note a few scriptures which will help us in this endeavor.  We know it is the Lord’s desire that all people will be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth (I Tim.2:4). He extends a great invitation to “all who labor and are heavy laden” and He will provide rest (Matt.11:28-30). Jesus by the grace of God tasted death for everyone (Heb.2:9). Truly, the Lord…

Studying with our teens things concerning the birth of Christ, we ask – how did God convince Mary that He was doing something marvelous through her? Mary is told – you will conceive in your womb, and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus (Luke 1:31). Further, she is told – the Holy Spirit shall come upon you and the power of the most High will overshadow you (Luke 1:35). This news is a lot for a…

With our little ones, we sing, “His fingerprints are everywhere just to show how much He cares.” The Lord truly wants us to know about Him. He is everywhere (Psalm 139:7-10) and He has not “left himself without witness” (Acts 14:17).  The Lord’s fingerprints are upon His creation. “When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the sun, moon and stars which thou hast ordained; what is man that thou art mindful of him?” (Psalm 8:3-4) “The heavens…

It is God’s desire that all people be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). This includes, of course, members of our physical families – children, cousins, aunts, uncles, in-laws, etc. All of us have family members who are not walking with the Lord. It is one of the most heart-wrenching realities of life. During his earthly ministry, Jesus’ own brothers did not believe in Him (John 7:5). Later though, they became true believers and dedicated servants (Acts 1:14). How did Jesus lead…

 We’ve heard it said – “We are beggars trying to tell other beggars where to find bread.”  As food and water are essential for the human body, so the Lord Jesus is essential for the soul. Christ says, “I am the bread of life; he that comes to me shall never hunger; and he that believes in me shall never thirst” (John 6:35). In fact, God is the source of all life, physical and spiritual (James 1:17), so our need…

 Is the Bible the true Word of God? Has our confidence in Scripture been misplaced?  The claims of the Bible are unmistakable. The Bible claims to speak the very words of God. David says, “The Spirit of the Lord speaks by me; His word is upon my tongue” (2 Sam.23:2). Paul commends the Christians in Thessalonica: “…when you received from us the word of God, you received it not as the word of men, but, as it is in truth,…

 Can you imagine someone saying, “I am going to join the Football Hall of Fame?” Or, “I think I will join the President’s cabinet?” The church is not a social or civic club. One must be added to the church by the Lord and only He can do this. Note a few passages.  “And they that gladly received his word were baptized, and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls” (Acts 2:41). “Praising God and…