(Phi 3:17-21) What should be obvious from just a cursory reading of these verses is that being identified as an “enemy of the cross of Christ” is a bad thing. Hence the reason Paul then states (in verse 19) “Their end is their destruction”. IOW: those identified in this way come judgment day will suffer […]
Only A Few
Luke 13:22-28 1) Only a few will be saved. 2) Wanting to go to heaven, or stay out of hell, is not enough. 3) Blood, sweat, and tears will be required. 4) The kingdom has closing hours and doesn’t accept credit.
Devilish Thoughts
(2Co 11:2-3) In ancient times, if a man was interested in marrying a woman who had never been married/sexually active (a “pure virgin”), he would approach her father in order to establish a betrothal/marriage contract (i.e. to purchase her from her father since she was legally his property). Paul saw his role in establishing the […]
The Very Biblical Doctrine of Real Apostasy
Apostasy happens when a member of Christ’s Church and Covenant, a recipient of God’s saving grace, rejects the authority of Christ, His Church or His Covenant commands as demonstrated by acts of reckless defiance and disobedience to the justice (i.e. repentance) mandated by those authorities[1]. The consequences of such unrepentance are the loss of their […]
Apostasy & Repentance
Apostasy, Belief or Sincerity, Fascination with Evil
Watching Over Our Hearts
The Importance of Watching Over Our Hearts (Proverbs 4:23) 1. “An intelligent heart acquires knowledge…” (Pro 18:15) This tells us that what is meant by the heart is one’s mind. (Ecc 1:16-17, 2:1-3, 23, 7:21-22, 25, 8:16) 2. “As in water face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects the man.” (Pro 27:19) This […]
Dark Brewed: Hebrews – Part 9
Like a good dark brew (of either coffee or beer), this portion of the book of Hebrews delivers the kind of “kick in the pants” that is always appreciated when the pressures and temptations of this life have got us feeling like compromise is the only option. If you are beginning to feel like the […]
2 Peter – Part 5: Remember The Gospel!
Theme: REMEMBER THE GOSPEL! 2nd Peter represents the Apostle Peter’s 2nd epistle. Written shortly after the first, the distinguishing mark of this letter is not only its focus on the gospel, but its efficient and effective presentation. In this respect, Peter does two things. First, he reminds us of what the (true) gospel teaches (1:1-15), […]
Tithing / Atheists & Abortion / Apostasy / Clothing
Apostasy – Is it hypothetical?
Is apostasy hypothetical? Is it just a threat by God to keep us in line?
Love, Lust and the Lord
The importance of understanding these three words (love, lust and the Lord) and their relationship to each other, cannot be overstated. Such understanding is the basis for assessing and addressing the human condition (i.e. why we do what we do; what we should do). Love is a decision/choice whereas lust is a feeling: 1.1. Love […]
Matthew Introduction – Part 3
The introduction to any book of the Bible is just as important for us to understand as what we find within its pages. As a matter of fact, it is only when we have taken the time to introduce ourselves to the book, that we have the tools necessary to correctly exegete and exposit its […]
Evangelical Myths – Part 2
Included in Paul’s instruction to pastors is the obligation to, “Have nothing to do with (i.e. reject) irreverent, silly myths [lit. imaginary beliefs promoted by old women and the world](1Ti 4:7).” In this respect, Paul’s goal for God’s Church is clear. He desires that congregations be equipped to discern and distance themselves from those doctrines […]