So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1, NLT) Grace sets Christianity apart from the other world religions! In Romans 8:1, we find the greatest benefit of grace for followers of Jesus — no condemnation! The Greek word for “condemnation” means “final judgment.” Have we told ourselves, “I […]
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Psalm 149 seems discordant to me. Let’s read a verse from the beginning of the Psalm and then two verses from the end of the chapter to see if you understand my dilemma. Praise the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song. Sing his praises in the assembly of the faithful (v. 1, NLT). Let the praises
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We are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5b, NASB). We daydream differing memories thousands of times per day. Those memories come at us from all directions — what has angered us, feelings of nostalgia, good and bad times, significant events, and embarrassments. Our future hope, staying positive, and maintaining healthy relations
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And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God. John 17:3 ESV The purpose of Christianity is knowing God. It’s not about dry traditions, stultifying obedience, or empty repetition of creeds — Christianity is a relationship with God. And the purpose of this relationship is knowing God. When Jesus teaches in John 17:3, “That
Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:4-5, ESV). For years, the Harvard Business Review has been a favorite read of mine. An article recently discussed the difference between inspiring vs. infuriating leaders
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Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written (John 21:25, NLT). The miracles of Jesus in the Gospels tempt incredulity as skeptics doubt and scoffers laugh. Then Jesus doubles down on doubts about miracles when He proclaims
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Great are the works of the Lord; They are studied by all who delight in them (Psalm 111:2, NASB). I agree with Psalm 111 when it says, “Great are the works of the Lord; they are studied …!” So, let’s consider the five greatest miracles in the Old Testament. Below is my list. I’ve excluded the
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For your name’s sake, O Lord, preserve my life! In your righteousness bring my soul out of trouble! (Psalm 143:11, ESV) Psalm 143 is unique. It lists a step-by-step process of freedom from discouragement. As a pastor for 49 years, when dealing with a follower of Jesus depressed by a life situation, I felt my best advice would
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You must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way (1 Peter 3:15-16a, NLT). In yesterday’s Interruption #1490, I mentioned a current revival on the campus of The Ohio State University
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Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up (Galatians 6:9, ESV). Pew Research™ conducts the most extensive surveys of church statistics in America. They have conducted three massive surveys (over 35,000 people interviewed) in the last 17 years. I’ve always anticipated the surveys as
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