The World and the Wind Scatter. Christ Secures.
Some kinds of “too late” are annoying. Some feel final: the doctor has made the call, the funeral is over, the stone is rolled across the tomb. In John 11, Jesus arrives four days after Lazarus died, and what he tells Martha changes what “too late” means.
Brush your teeth. Take the medicine. Feed the dog. Daily things are easy to skip because missing one day seems to cost nothing. Hebrews 3:13 puts “encourage one another” on that daily list, and the bill for skipping it arrives later.
Nobody buys a 120-ton compressor package because the lifting lugs look good. Without them, though, it never gets off the truck. Galatians 6:2 calls us to be that kind of unglamorous strength for each other when the load gets too heavy.
“Love one another” is the command behind all the others. “Serve one another” is love holding a towel. I have a story about that, although it is not one where I come out looking particularly good.
At my first church retreat, in the Texas Hill Country, I was the only one wearing shorts. Nobody said a word to me, about the shorts or anything else. Romans 15:7 asks for a better welcome: accept one another, as Christ accepted you.
I. Introduction Most organizations want to be recognized. Companies spend millions of dollars to create logos so you can recognize them. Here’s a quick quiz — how many of these company logos can you name? Answers: Row 1: Marriott, Shell, Nike, Popeyes, Pepsi, Atari, Union 76, ToyotaRow 2: Prudential, AT&T, Chevrolet, Adobe, John Deere, McDonald's, … Continue reading Love One Another
I. Introduction Diane is a wonderful gardener. Our backyard is an oasis – flowers grow everywhere. She tends the roses and the hibiscus, which she calls her “biscuits,” and she prunes them faithfully. And sometimes, she’ll cut an especially beautiful flower and put it in a vase in the kitchen. And here’s the thing … Continue reading I AM The True Vine
I don't usually delve into discussions of apostasy or church authority. My own personal feeling is to pursue unity where possible — Paul puts it well in Ephesians 4:3: "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." But I recently read an article on Catholic Share by Godwin … Continue reading A Response to “The Protestant Reformation Was a Total Failure. Period.”
I. Introduction There’s a specific kind of frustration that comes when you ask someone for directions and they say, “You can’t miss it.” Diane always says that when someone tells you, “You can’t miss it,” you are now guaranteed to miss it. You can always miss it. I have missed things that multiple confident people … Continue reading I AM The Way, the Truth and the Life
I. Introduction — The Moment When “Too Late” Arrives There are different kinds of "too late." Some are annoying. Too late for the early-bird special. Too late to return that purchase without a receipt. Too late to get the good seats. Some are heavier. Too late to apologize. Too late to say goodbye. Too late … Continue reading I AM The Resurrection and the Life
I. Introduction Think about the last time you asked someone for help and they couldn't come. Maybe a repairman said he'd be there Wednesday — he wasn't. Maybe a doctor said "we'll schedule something" and meant three weeks from now. Maybe a friend said "I'll be right there" and you were still waiting an hour … Continue reading The Word Was Enough
Our Shepherd knows His sheep. Do you know Him? Listen for His voice. #Jesus #Shepherd #BibleStudy #Sunday
I. Introduction Think about all the doors you passed through today. You probably didn't think about a single one of them. You just walked through. That's what doors do when they're working correctly — they're invisible. You don't think about a door until it's locked and you don't have the key, or someone slams it … Continue reading I AM The Door
Introduction - Light Changes Everything Legos are evil. I'm convinced of it. Step on one in the dark and it's an incredibly painful experience. In fact, some theologians believe the thorn in Paul's side — the one he begged the Lord three times to take away — was actually a Lego. If you step on … Continue reading I AM the Light of the World
I. Introduction Who does Jesus say He is? The Gospel of John describes Jesus beautifully, beginning with John 1:1: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” But for our lesson today, I want to begin a little later in John 1:9–13 because it provides … Continue reading I AM The Bread of Life
I. Introduction Jesus has been making His way toward Jerusalem for His final Passover. Along the way, He has been telling parables and teaching in synagogues. He has been describing the Kingdom of Heaven, sharing difficult wisdom such as “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than … Continue reading Behold! Your King is Coming!
I. Introduction Sometimes when I study, I get a plot, like in the Book of Jonah or Exodus or Acts. I enjoy studying it, the plot, the life lesson, the historical significance, the miracles, and the fishing lessons. But Psalms is usually hard for me. I read today’s scripture and thought, “It’s a … Continue reading Halleluiah! Praise the Lord!
I. Introduction – The Temple In our class last week, Tommy taught us that we should be prepared for the coming of the Lord. Well, He’s here. And here in Luke 2, we get our only inspired snapshot of Jesus between infancy and adulthood. And we’ll see in just a few short verses something … Continue reading The Temple
I. Icebreaker — Stories of Reconciliation Before we turn to Nehemiah, let me connect us to where we’ve been the past couple of weeks. Two weeks ago, Tommy used home renovation shows—things like Property Brothers—to help us think about rebuilding. That fit Nehemiah well, because Nehemiah quite literally asks the king for permission to rebuild … Continue reading Confession, Reconciliation, Celebration
I. Introduction We all arrived safely at the office today. Raise your hand if you’re not here. We don’t always stop to think about it, but even something as ordinary as getting to work safely is evidence of God’s care. Scripture reminds us that our steps are ordered by the Lord, and His protection … Continue reading God Protects Us
I. Introduction Israel had long been warned that disobedience would lead to captivity. Jerusalem fell, many were exiled, and empires changed hands. Daniel not only foretold the rise of Persia—he also lived through the transfer of power as God’s people remained in exile. Esther takes place in the Persian Empire after Babylon fell, when many … Continue reading Esther: Queen of the Darkest Night
I. Jeremiah the Prophet It’s a new year—time to change the page on the calendar… unless, like me, you use a digital calendar. Then you don’t change the page; you press a button. Either way, it feels like a fresh start. But Scripture reminds us that “new” isn’t mainly about the calendar. The Bible’s … Continue reading God’s Plan: A New Year, A New You
I. Introduction The air is filled with the warm aromas of a hearty feast, families gather around tables laden with dishes like roast turkey, sweet potatoes, and green bean casserole. Expressions of gratitude echo through the air during this festive season, as traditions like cranberry sauce and dressing bring family and friends together. Beyond … Continue reading Giving Thanks at Thanksgiving
I. Introduction Psalm 139 Today I want to take a moment to reflect not on headlines or controversies, but on the foundational truth that every life is known and loved by God. In Psalm 139, David meditates not on theological jargon, but on the overwhelming reality of God's personal involvement with His creation. Psalm … Continue reading God Knows Us Intimately
The content reflects on Psalm 128, emphasizing that true success is found in reverence for the Lord, rather than societal measures like wealth or titles. It illustrates how blessings extend from individual faith to family and community, advocating for a life focused on God's guidance. Happiness arises through obedience and faithful living.
I. Introduction Initial Discussion: Do you ever get discouraged? What situation have you been in that discouraged you—job loss, health issues, family matters? When my last company a few years back started downsizing, the days were discouraging. I said goodbye to co-workers daily. They stop by my office, shake my hand, say it's been … Continue reading Trust in the Lord
The content discusses the profound nature of forgiveness as exemplified in Psalm 32, highlighting the contrast between God’s unconditional forgiveness and human reluctance to forgive. It shares tragic stories, notably the Amish community's response to a shooting, emphasizing how true forgiveness is a choice that leads to healing and joy.
I. Introduction Psalm 62 is not written from a place of comfort, but from the middle of one of the most turbulent seasons in David’s life. The historical setting is Absalom’s rebellion, recorded in 2 Samuel 15–18. By this point, David is no longer the young shepherd-king who defeated Goliath or the newly enthroned … Continue reading Security in God
I. Introduction "God is Dead." -Nietzsche, 1882. "Nietzsche is Dead." -God, eternal. We're working through various Psalms for a few weeks, and this week we'll explore how God reveals Himself to us. In other words, How do I know God exists, and how does that affect me? Does God Exist? In 2009, journalist John … Continue reading Does God Exist?
Enduring Trials for the Glory of Christ How Suffering Purifies, Strengthens, and Prepares Us for Eternal Glory I. Introduction In 1 Peter 4:12–19, Peter speaks tenderly but urgently to Christians facing trials. Last week in 1 Peter 4:7-11, Peter had called believers to stay focused on prayer, love, hospitality, and service. Now, he turns directly … Continue reading Enduring Trials
In 1 Peter 4:7-11, Peter emphasizes living purposefully as believers, urging spiritual alertness, deep love, and faithful service in light of Christ's imminent return. He encourages prayerful living, selfless love, and the responsible use of spiritual gifts to glorify God, highlighting the importance of community and unity amidst challenges.
Let us live for God, because God died for us.
In 1 Peter 2:18-25, Peter instructs believers to submit to their masters, emphasizing respectful conduct even in harsh situations. He advocates for enduring unjust suffering as a commendable act of faith, mirroring Christ’s example. Ultimately, such trials lead to spiritual strength and divine recognition, reaffirming God's purpose in believers' lives.
Christians are temporary residents in this world, called to live righteously and submit to authorities as a reflection of their faith. It encourages believers to appreciate life’s beauty while remembering their eternal destination, acting as ambassadors of Christ through loving behavior, and adhering to God’s will above all.
We explore Peter's teaching in 1 Peter 1:22-25 about the significance of obedience, purification, and sincere love among believers. It highlights that true love, stemming from a transformed heart, is rooted in the eternal Word of God, contrasting the fleeting nature of human life with the permanence of God's promises and the transformative power of the gospel.
1 Peter 1:13-16 emphasizes the call to holiness for believers, highlighting the importance of mental preparedness, sobriety, and hope in Christ’s grace. Peter encourages followers to shed past ignorance, embrace moral purity, and embody God's holiness in all aspects of life, ensuring that their conduct reflects their identity as God's children.
I. Introduction Bill had the honor last week of telling wives to submit to their husbands. I think Bill made it clear that whatever misogynistic and sarcastic comment I was probably going to make isn’t supported by scripture. So last week, after emphasizing mutual submission in the latter half of Ephesians 5 and addressing husbands … Continue reading Christlike Submission
Ephesians 5:1-21 emphasizes living in reflection of God’s character through love, light, and wisdom. Paul encourages believers to embody Christ-like love, reject immoral behaviors, and make intentional, Spirit-led choices. This transformation fosters community unity and a distinctive witness in a morally ambiguous culture, underscoring the significance of intentional Christian living.
Introduction: God’s Unfolding Plan for the Gentiles In Ephesians 3:1-13, Paul reflects on his role in revealing the "mystery" that had been hidden for ages—that Gentiles are fellow heirs with Israel in God’s redemptive plan. God’s eternal purpose, beginning with Adam and continuing through Abraham and Israel, culminates in Christ. From the very beginning, God’s … Continue reading God’s Unfolding Plan for the Gentiles
In Ephesians 2:1-10, Paul emphasizes the transformative journey of believers, highlighting humanity's past spiritual death and need for salvation. God's rich mercy and grace lead to renewed life through faith in Christ, free from boasting. Believers are created for good works as evidence of their faith and God's purposeful design.
Paul's letter to the Ephesians unveils spiritual wisdom and blessings in Christ. It emphasizes God's sovereignty and the believers' identity as saints, apart from worldly achievements. Paul discusses grace, predestination, redemption, and the Holy Spirit's seal, contrasting with secular views. This comprehensive understanding directs believers towards eternal and spiritual realities.
Under pressure, Christians often struggle to openly demonstrate their faith. The denial of Jesus by Peter, driven by fear and pride, exemplifies this. However, Peter's restoration by Jesus reflects God's forgiveness and the transformative power of grace. This serves as a reminder of our need for humility and dependence on God in our journey of faith.
The 20-year-old blog "Chasing the Wind" began as lighthearted stories and evolved to address politics, faith, and the author's personal experiences. With gratitude, the author acknowledges the impact of their faith, sharing learnings and teaching Bible study for 18 years. They express appreciation for the support of their readers.
In Matthew 19:13-15, Jesus blesses children despite disciples' rebuke, highlighting their importance in the kingdom of heaven. This contrasts with the metaphor of childlike humility in Matthew 18.
Why do good things happen to bad people? Perhaps the answer lies within your own heart. And perhaps, God's plans are different than yours.
I. Introduction A guy named Pete gets a job as a switchman with the railroad, and undergoes weeks of training. The supervisor then takes him into the switch booth to test his readiness. The following exchange takes place: Supervisor: "Imagine you were sitting here alone and you learned there was a train coming from … Continue reading Faith Tested
Introduction Who does Jesus say He is? The book of John describes Jesus beautifully, beginning with in verse 1 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” But I want to skip to verses 9-13 because it gives a nice introduction to our lesson today. The … Continue reading I AM the Bread of Life
Introduction Fifty years ago seems like a very long time ago. Probably because fifty years ago is a long time ago. Fifty years ago, I was 8 years old and had hobbies like eating green apples from our tree in the back yard in Wheaton Illinois, and collecting frogs from the nearby pond to keep … Continue reading A King Experiences Revival
I. Introduction A guy named Pete gets a job as a switchman with the railroad, and undergoes weeks of training. The supervisor then takes him into the switch booth to test his readiness. The following exchange takes place: Supervisor: "Imagine you were sitting here alone and you learned there was a train coming from the North … Continue reading Faith and the Revelation of God
I. Introduction In our recent study of the Book of Galatians, Galatians taught us a lot about what it takes to become a believer, and all the misconceptions that people may have about what it takes to get into heaven. It’s not following certain rules, it’s not performing certain rituals, it’s not anything we do. All … Continue reading With Perseverance
s. Introduction What is “enough”? When do we have “enough?” Have you ever had enough chocolate? How about money? Have you ever had enough money? How about family? Never mind, of course you can have enough of family. I withdraw the analogy. When we do not have enough, what response pleases the Lord? Do we … Continue reading Sufficient
I. Introduction The Roman Empire conquered by force much of the known world in days leading up to the birth of Jesus. By 37 BC, the Romans placed Herod the Great to rule Judea as a Roman province, with Roman troops stationed in Jerusalem to enforce the peace. After the death of Herod in … Continue reading The Faith of the Centurion
I. Introduction We’ve just spent the last two months studying Hebrews with just a few weeks left to go, but our study of Hebrews has a purpose. Hebrews, as you may recall, was written to the new Christians in trying circumstances and persecutions. The first 6 chapters of Hebrews sought to reassure the new … Continue reading What is Faith?
I. Introduction Living by faith is difficult. It's very easy to have either an over-dependence or under-dependence on God. Does living by faith mean living by a certain moral or ethical code, or adhering to a certain set of religious beliefs? Well... on one hand, living by faith means putting your trust in Jesus, following … Continue reading Faith in Action
I. Introduction From time to time, we all come to a big decision in our lives. I've lost my job; what should I do now? I have a medical issue; how should I treat it? Is this person right for me? Should I compromise, or should I stand my ground? We are faced with decisions … Continue reading Praying About Difficult Decisions
I. Introduction Forgive me ahead of time; it was difficult to focus this week on preparing a lesson. We had plumbing leak #4 this past Sunday and our study was damaged by the leaking pipes. We were already working on a solution to replace the ancient galvanized piping with the newer PEX tubing which was … Continue reading How to Develop Your Faith
I. Introduction I visited a coworker in the hospital this weekend. He told me he was at home watching tv when the doorbell rang. When he opened the door, there was a 6 foot cockroach standing there. Before he could say anything, the cockroach punched in the stomach and ran off. The next night, he … Continue reading Security in God
Charles Schultz often touched on religious themes in his cartoons. You might remember his Christmas special years ago, where Linus recited the meaning of Christmas from the book of Luke. Charles Schultz taught bible study into the 1980's, and many of his cartoons were thought to illustrate bible scripture. His illustration for our study today, … Continue reading Faith and Deeds
Image via Wikipedia I. Introduction We're wrapping up the letters of from Paul to the church of Thessalonica today. Paul's 1st letter consisted mostly of encouragement as the church faced prosecution and urged Christians to live by high moral standards in an immoral society. Anybody think this might be applicable today? Paul also talked about … Continue reading Faithful Inside and Out
I think I can, I think I can, I think I can. Do you recognize those words? The Little Engine That Could, carrying a trainload of toys over the mountain. The load was so heavy and the journey was so long, the Little Engine was ready to give up. Defeated. I can’t do this, the … Continue reading Exercise Confidence
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