In 1 Corinthians 2:3 Paul described what he felt when he first went to Corinth: “I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling.” Feeling that way…
There are some things you really need to know if you want to honor God and live for His glory. That statement is based on 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, “Do you…
Do you have a life’s verse? I’ve talked to a lot of people who have identified one verse that seems to be deeply imbedded into their hearts and minds. What…
I still remember one of the neatest experiences in Bible study I ever had. I was studying 1st Corinthians and came to the well-known love chapter, chapter 13. I had…
Some years ago, while preparing some comments for my daughter’s wedding, I put together some thoughts based on 1st Corinthians 13:4-8. Here they are: “You have chosen to get married…
In 1st Corinthians chapter 13 Paul placed the importance of love in the midst of a discussion about exercising spiritual gifts. He points out in 1 Corinthians 12 that the…
In our last visit we discussed how to understand spiritual gifts and their expression or use in and through the church as described in 1st Corinthians 12. The harmony resulting…
In our last few visits we’ve been studying what is found in 1st Corinthians 12&13 regarding spiritual gifts and their place in the life and ministry of the church. Chapter…
Is the New Testament authentic and trustworthy? I believe it is. I recently read that 1st Corinthians 15:3-5 was part of a verbal creed dating back to within a few…
Chaplain Peter Marshall once said, “It is better to fail in a cause that will ultimately succeed, than to succeed in a cause that will ultimately fail.” These words present…
If you’re feeling down and discouraged let me encourage you to reflect with me on 2 Corinthians 1:8-11. Paul says he is almost despairing of life. How did he cope…
Let’s look at an insight word found in 2 Corinthians 3:18. Paul described the difference between the letter of the law and the ministry of the Holy Spirit. He concludes…
Would you allow me to share something of great importance with you in the next few moments? Many of you listen to this program daily. Maybe you’ve never heard this…
The Bible has much to say about money. In 2 Corinthians 8 & 9 Paul teaches on stewardship. Let’s do a “4S” or four step study of these chapters. First…
We began a “4S” or 4 step study of stewardship based on 2 Corinthians 8&9 in our last visit. Let’s continue to spread out what we find in these chapters. …
In our last few visits we’ve been doing a “4S” or 4 steps study of 2 Corinthians 8 & 9 on the subject of stewardship. After spreading out the information…
Listen to the words in 2 Corinthians 13:5, “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you? …
In our reading of the New Testament, we’re now at the book of Galatians—a book that emphasizes spiritual liberty. Take time to read through the book, one chapter per day. …
I’ve often been challenged by what Paul shares about an experience he had in Jerusalem. Using 6 interrogatives, let’s study Galatians 2:1-10. In answer to the question, Who? you have…
In the introduction to my book, A Call To Responsible Freedom, I point out, you “have been called to a life of responsible freedom. ‘Responsible Freedom’ is an important concept,…
A young, non-believing wife said to me. “My husband’s life has been changed quite drastically since he received Jesus Christ as his Savior. And I like him far more as…
Studying what Paul writes about prayer in the book of Ephesians will help you in your prayer life. His heart concern for the Ephesians is evident in chapters 1:15-23 and…
As I read the book of Ephesians again in preparation for this program I noticed something I had not seen before, in spite of the many times I studied it. …
As I mentioned when introducing the book of Ephesians, its theme is spiritual loveliness. But the loveliness God wants to create in and through us is a loveliness that blooms,…
Today let’s consider the book of Philippians. “Living in Christ” is the theme I chose for this book. Listen to Philippians chapter 3:10 where Paul’s prayer was, “That I may…
While reading Philippians you’ll notice Paul mentions “joy” or “rejoice” about 10 times. So, let’s do a topical study on Joy as found in Philippians. First, collect all the…
As we continue reading through the Bible by the end of this year we now come to Colossians. Bobby Richards, famous American athlete, understood the main practical principle of Colossians…
Let’s study Paul’s prayer in Colossians 1:3-12. In verses 3-8 Paul lists things about the Colossian Christians he thanks God for: their faith, love, hope, spiritual growth and fruit, and…
In our last visit we studied Paul’s prayer found in Colossians 1:3-12. Today let’s look at the life of Epaphras, mentioned twice in Colossians and in Philemon 23. Colossians 1:7…
I trust you’re enjoying slowing down in our reading project in order to concentrate more thoroughly on what Paul said in his letters. Today we introduce the book of 1…
Let’s do a focus and amplify study of 1st Thessalonians 2. The focus is, A Passion and Plan for Discipling Others. Whatever you’ve experienced in the past, dare to go…
In our last visit we identified the focus of 1st Thessalonians 2 as a passion and plan for discipling others. We amplified this focus by describing Paul’s approach in discipling…
Many ask the question “Why?” in the face of tragedy and death. Others question, “What happens to the deceased?” Paul addresses these questions in 1st Thessalonians 4:13-18. To study…
In our visit today we’ll see how Paul in 2nd Thessalonians built on what he said in 1st Thessalonians. Both books refer to the return of Christ. They emphasize the…
I was encouraged by what Paul prayed in 2nd Thessalonians 1:11-12. Let’s do an inductive study of it. Start by asking what does it say? Paul prayed they would walk…
Do you ever find while reading your Bible that a statement jumps out and grabs your attention? I watch for such statements. When I find one, I stop and reflect…
In our last visit we studied the impact statement in 1st Timothy 4:16, “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both…
Continuing to read the Epistles in our goal of reading through the Bible by the end of the year, we come to 2nd Timothy. Paul shares a very important principle…
In our last visit we focused on 2nd Timothy 2:2, “The things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also…
In a church, those in leadership need to look for reliable, faithful participants in their church. When they find such people they need to enlarge their sphere of experience, to…
While reading the book of Titus I noticed Paul has a recurring theme throughout the book: “doing what is good.” It is mentioned 8 times. Reflecting on each reference I…
In our last visit we introduced a recurring theme in the book of Titus: “doing what is good.” We saw, some are unfit for doing what is good. They need…
Do you remember the popular slogan used to address the drug problem, “Just say NO”? The problem most drug addicts had was they were impotent to do that. For those…
As we continue reading our way through the remaining books of the Bible before the end of this year keep your heart open for God to speak to you. Pray…
Is it not arrogance to say, “Jesus Christ is the Light of the world?” Or for a Christian to say, “We only have the light”? Dr. Radhakrishnan, a Hindu philosopher…
The book of Hebrews emphasizes that Jesus is greater than all who went before Him. There’s been a significant emphasis on angels in recent years, even in the entertainment industry. …
Let me share two impact statements found in Hebrews that I trust will excite you. The first is Hebrews 2:11, “Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.” Who does…
There are a number of statements about God’s Word made in Hebrews 4 and 5. 4:12 says, “the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double edged…
When facing trials and temptations we overcome by keeping in mind what is stated in Hebrews 4:14-16. Let’s do a focus and amplify study of these verses. The focus is;…
There’s so much in the book of Hebrews I’d like to touch on. Our time, however, doesn’t allow for all of it. For example, chapter 7 speaks of the superiority…
You’ll notice as you read the book of Hebrews how often the writer encourages you to respond to truth by using two words, "Let us.” In chapter 10 verses 19-25…
In our last study I mentioned how the two words, “Let us,” are found throughout the book of Hebrews. We meditated on them as found in Hebrews 10:19-25. Let’s now…
As we come to the close of the book of Hebrews let’s pause and consider the benediction found in chapter 13 verses 20-22. Ask, What does this benediction teach us…
In our project of reading through the Bible we now come to the book of James. As you read James you’ll recognize its similarity to Proverbs in the Old Testament…
In our last visit we introduced the book of James. Today let’s begin a biographical study of the author. To do this collect all the references to him in the…
In our last visit we were doing a biographical study of James, the author of the epistle named after him. We first collected information about him. To help you, use…
It’s been said, “What you are speaks so loud I can’t hear what you’re saying.” It’s also true, “What you say and how you say it reveals more about your…
Before concluding our study of James let’s do a topical study of patience. James discussed it in James 1:3-4 and 5:7-11. All of us struggle with patience, yet it’s essential…
In our project of reading through the Bible by the end of this year we come to the first of two books written by the Apostle Peter. He experienced much…
In our last visit we found in I Peter 4:7-11 that prayer, love, hospitality and doing what you can to help meet needs and hurts in the lives you encounter…
We often say, “Life is full of surprises,” especially when facing an unexpected bad event. But the Apostle Peter says in 1 Peter 4:12, do “not be surprised at the…
If you aspire to leadership in your church Peter shares some important things as a leader to leaders in 1st Peter 5:1-8. Listen to what he says. Be shepherds who…
Robert Moffat understood the reason for the Savior’s longsuffering. He pointed out, “We have all eternity to celebrate our victories, but only one short hour before sunset in which to…
I noticed when reading 1st and 2nd Peter the frequent references to the Bible. I counted about 20 times. As I thought about organizing this material on the Bible I…
In our last two visits we studied what Peter said about the importance of God’s Word. Now let’s focus on what he said in 2nd Peter 3:9-18. Peter reminds us…
We come now, in our project of reading through the Bible by the end of this year, to three Epistles that John the apostle wrote late in the first century. …
If you started reading 1st John you’ve no doubt noticed John refers to “eternal life” or “life” quite often in this letter. If you collected each reference where “eternal life”…
In our last visit we looked at 1st John in the New Testament and studied what John said about eternal life. We saw Jesus Christ as the personification of eternal…
If you’ve been reading 1st John with us, did you notice what he says in chapter 3:21-22, “Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before…
Reflecting on John’s 3rd letter I concluded an appropriate title for the book would be, Against Self-Love. It’s true, there is a healthy love of self, for Jesus Christ said…
Spurgeon once warned, “Error oft rides to its deadly work on the back of truth.” As you read the book of Jude you’ll see how this happens within a church…
In doing a focus and amplify study of the book of Jude I determined the focus was, Facing forces opposing Christianity. The first half of the book identifies forces the…
You must know the man who said, “We shall go on to the end…we shall never surrender,” before you can really understand England’s part in World War II. It was…
The last book of the Bible is best identified by the opening words, “The revelation of Jesus Christ.” If you find the book hard to understand I’d encourage you to…
As we read through the book of Revelation, we’ll try to note every reference to Jesus Christ. Ask God for a deeper insight into the person of Jesus Christ. In…
In our last visit we looked at titles and descriptions referring to Jesus Christ in the book of Revelation. Let’s now look at 1:5-6. It points out that Jesus loves…
Let me read Revelation 1:13-16, “Someone like a son of man, dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. His head…
When John saw the glorified Christ, as described in Revelation 1:13-16, it says in verse 17, he fell at his feet as though dead. This is not surprising when you…
The focal point of the Book of Revelation is Jesus Christ. In our previous studies we’ve looked at some titles and descriptions of Jesus in the book of Revelation. To…
Today we’ll look at Christ’s titles in Revelation 3:7-13 related to the church of Philadelphia. He is the holy and true one who holds the key of David. When an…
We’ve been looking at how Jesus identifies Himself in the letters to the seven churches of Revelation 2 & 3. In 3:14 He is “the Amen, the faithful and true…
As we read on in Revelation we find Jesus Christ is referred to as “The Lamb” in chapter 5 verse 6. This title is familiar to Jewish believers because of…
In our last visit we began a study of the references to the Lamb of God in the book of Revelation. We considered the sacrifice, sovereignty and marriage supper of…
In our study of the Lamb there were three verses in the book of Revelation that made reference to the blood of the Lamb. In 5:9 the heavenly chorus declared,…
In our last study we considered the power of the blood of the Lamb to overcome the Devil. Who is this Devil? Revelation 12:9 describes him as the great dragon,…
The book of Revelation is filled with statements of faith as well as declarations of judgement, followed by actual, dreadful judgments. There’s social upheaval beyond description. The suffering of people…
Revelation chapter 12 describes a fascinating interlude in the events during the tribulation. A pregnant woman cries out in pain as she is about to give birth. Then an enormous…
In our last visit we studied what I called the Cosmic Christmas story found in Revelation 12. You’ll recall when Jesus was born there were wise men from the east…
As we’ve reflected on the names and descriptions of Jesus Christ in the book of Revelation it’s clear, He received the answer to His prayer in John 17:5, “Now, Father,…
We’ve looked at some of what the book of Revelation says about heaven. Let’s now look at what it says about hell. God prepared hell for the Devil and the…
The book of Revelation closes with a repeated promise, “Behold, I am coming soon!” followed, with the promise, “Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy in this…
As we come to the end of this two year journey of reading and studying through the whole Bible, and as we anticipate the opportunities and challenges of the New…
I am excited about the study adventure I’m beginning with you today. Let me introduce you during the first weeks of this year to the apostle Paul, then I’ll take the…
In our last visit I began to introduce you to the apostle Paul by starting a biographical study of his life. There are three steps in a biographical study: collect information…
If you’ve started reading in the book of Acts about the life of Saul, better known as Paul the apostle, I’m sure you’ve noted he was an unusual man. Start…
In our last visit we amplified the information gathered about the apostle Paul before his conversion experience on the road to Damascus as recorded in Acts 9. Most people don’t…
We’ve been looking at Paul’s life pre-conversion. Many people touched his life as he violently went around “breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples” (Acts 9:1). Only God knows…
There are some things we can learn from others; other things we can learn by our own study; but some things you will only learn from God through the Holy…
Earlier in our biographical study of Paul’s life I suggested another outline from the one we’ve been using. All we’ve studied thus far could be placed under the first point…
As mentioned in our last visit I raised the question: were Barnabas and Paul ready to launch out on a second missionary journey. According to Acts 15:36-41 Paul suggested to…
In our last visit we discussed the heated blow up Paul and Barnabas had as they contemplated a second missionary trip. I suggested, had they followed the pattern seen in…
One key to growing in our walk with God is to learn from our experiences. Paul didn’t want to take Mark on the second missionary journey because he deserted them…
Over the years Paul never forgot the lesson he learned from Barnabas. It was hard earned. He had to humbly acknowledge the wisdom of Barnabas to give Mark another chance…
As Paul pressed forward on his second missionary journey he ran into some obstacles. He “and his companions (were) kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the…
As mentioned in our last visit, though hindered from reaching some regions, there was no indication this kept him from pressing on with his mission. Eventually he landed in Troas. …
As mentioned in our last visit Paul and his team ran into some obstacles during the early stages of his second missionary journey. Once they saw their first converts in…
It’s encouraging to see Paul continuing to grow as he pressed on to take the Gospel to people who had never heard. He began delegating responsibilities to teammates. But…
Paul concluded his visit to Athens with a powerful message to the Council which drew the following response: “a few men became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was…
As seen in our last visit, with the encouragement of faithful friends and supporters, as well as teammates, Paul ministered for an extended period of time in Corinth. When God gave…
As mentioned in our last visit, Paul refined his strategy by focusing his attention on major cities. If strong churches were planted in major cities like Corinth, Ephesus or Rome,…
In our last visit I concluded that Paul’s strategy of focusing on major cities worked well so long as the churches stayed healthy. That’s why he worked so hard trying…
As we’ve seen Paul’s mission strategy in our biographical study of his life there is one final piece I’d like to focus on. Paul poured a lot of time into…
As we continue our biographical study of the life of Paul the Apostle we now come to the last point in our outline: his legacy. What was the lasting impact…
The ministry of reproducing yourself to extend your ministry through others is a major legacy of the apostle Paul. He penned the famous words in 2nd Timothy, 2:2, “The things…
It’s hard to fully comprehend the legacy of the apostle Paul. Probably the best way to understand it is to read his 13 letters in the New Testament. They…
Continuing our study of the life of Paul let’s expand the point that the books he wrote provide the long term legacy of his life. The two books he wrote…
In our last visit I made reference to 1st Corinthians 13, what I might call Paul’s “legacy of love.” In officiating at my daughter’s wedding I said the following based…
Paul’s prison epistles are profound expressions of truth, compassion and challenge. They’re like beautiful flowers growing and blooming in a dismal garbage dump, dug up, potted and sent to brighten…
Paul wrote in Philippians 3:10, “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.” …
Paul wrote this in the book of Philemon while a prisoner in Rome: “Confident… that you will do even more than I ask” (Philemon 21). Philemon was a wealthy man…
After Paul was released from his first imprisonment in Rome it’s not clear where he went to minister. Some think he tried to fulfill his longtime plan of reaching Spain,…
We’ve been considering Paul’s legacy, especially the legacy he left us through the letters he wrote. We’ll spend the rest of this year studying his most important book, the book…
“In your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have”…
With our biographical study of the apostle Paul done we’re prepared to study his major written legacy, the book of Romans. I encourage you to read this book as…
In our last visit we started studying the New Testament book of Romans using the focus and amplify study method. After reading it I felt the focus should be: The…
In our last visit we developed an outline for the book of Romans. Title: The Key to Abundant Living. Main points: the universal need for salvation; the available provision…
As we began our more detailed study of Romans in our last visit we considered Paul’s mission spelled out in the introduction, chapter 1:1-17. What he says in these verses…
In our last two visits we discovered what Paul shared in Romans about his mission and message. It’s clear that both revolved around his Master. He had no mission or…
Before we move on from our study of the introduction in Romans take a moment to reflect on those Paul targeted as recipients of this letter. Romans 1:7 says,“To all…
In recent days we’ve studied the introduction to the book of Romans. Now we’ll begin to amplify the main points in the book. Paul’s first point in Romans 1:18-3:20, addresses the universal…
In our last visit we began studying Paul’s first main point in the book of Romans, the universal need of salvation. All have sinned and come short of God’s glory,…
In our study today let’s amplify further what Paul says in Romans 1. Verse 18 says the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against ungodly and wicked men because…
When men suppress the self-evident truth about God, through what God created, the consequences come in devastating waves. If you refuse to bow before God and worship Him He will…
As we continue to study the devastating moral regression predicted in Romans 1 when men suppress the truth they have about God, there is a troubling phrase found in verses…
As I prepared this study of Romans 1:18-31 and reflected on the fate of those who suppress the truth they have about God, I was convicted on two accounts. …
After Paul clearly presented his case for pagans being lost, without excuse, he tackled the culpability of the religious person who might agree wholeheartedly with his assessment of the pagans.…
In the last half of Romans 2 Paul presents two hypothetical assumptions claimed by those who are religious. Then he asks some rhetorical questions, and concludes with an affirmation of truth. …
Romans 2 began with the affirmation that the religious person has no excuse. He knows better because he’s received God’s revelation in Scripture, but doesn’t perform any better. Romans 3…
Paul turns to the revealed Word of God in Romans 3 and concludes that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” The religious person is no…
As we wrap up the first devastating point Paul makes in the first three chapters of Romans, here is what we’ve found. We are without excuse because of both natural…
We’ve studied the first main point in Romans under the title: The Key to Abundant Living. Now let’s amplify the second main point: The Available Provision of Salvation. Paul begins…
Let’s continue our study of the topic of faith as found in Romans 3:21-6:23. If you collect what is said about faith in this section and identify what each reference…
In our last visit we found that the action of faith as found in Romans 3:21-6:23 is seen in contrast to our efforts at trying to live the Christian life. …
In recent visits we considered the essence and action of faith as seen in Romans 3:21-6:23. Today let’s look at the object of faith – what and in whom we…
There is a final point related to the object of our faith that’s important for us to consider. Romans 6:17 says, “You wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which…
Before continuing our study on faith let me share how God used some of what I shared yesterday about spreading His Word. Once on a flight from Prague to Zagreb…
Today I’d like to start looking at the final point in our study of the topic of faith in Romans 3:21-6:23. What is the outcome of faith – What happens…
Let’s continue reflecting on the blessing that comes to one who believes in God. Notice Romans 3:24: “justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ.” …
We’ve been looking at the outcome of putting faith in Jesus Christ as seen in Romans 3:21-6:23. Today let’s focus on forgiveness. Romans 4:6: indicates that “David says the same…
Did you know you can become an heir of the promise given to Abraham and his offspring? That’s right. God made a promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:2-3, that He…
In our study of the outcome of faith we now turn to Romans 5. Notice the phrases, “we have,” mentioned 5 times in 11 verses, and “we rejoice,” three times. …
In our last visit we reflected on the privilege and assurance of being justified through faith in Jesus Christ. We have peace with God and a standing “grace relationship” with…
We concluded our last visit referring to Romans 5:5, “hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he…
In the last half of Romans 5 Paul presents the contrast between the first Adam and the second Adam, Jesus Christ. The dreadful consequences of the sin of the first…
Paul is leading up to a grand conclusion to his second point in the book of Romans; God’s provision of salvation. He has shown what faith is and how it…
It is fitting to affirm the Apostle Paul’s statement this Easter Weekend: “What I received I passed on to you as of first importance; that Christ died for our sins…
In our study of Romans we’ve looked at Sin and Salvation. Now let’s consider the 3rd main point in Romans: Sanctification. This is the process of growing into the likeness…
In our last visit we began looking at what is said in Romans about sanctification. That is, the process of becoming more like Jesus Christ once we’ve been saved by…
Building on what Paul said in the beginning of Romans 6 about baptism and what it signified, he talks about the new life that God gives to those who trust…
As we continue studying Romans 6 notice verse 19; “I put this in human terms because you are weak in your natural selves.” Paul is explaining to believers the positional…
In our last visit we saw in Romans 6 that to experience the positional reality of being dead to sin but alive to God there are some negative steps you…
In Romans 7 Paul encourages us to be committed or married to the resurrected Christ, not to Jesus Christ’s earthy example. If you try to follow Jesus Christ’s example you’ll…
Paul raises another question about the law of God in Romans 7:7 – “What shall we say, then? Is the law sin?” That question was raised because of what he…
I mentioned in our last visit that Paul was “a happy sinner.” In Romans 7:9, Paul says, “Once I was alive apart from law.” Eugene Peterson put it this way…
In our last visit we noted how the insight word “I,” found 25 times in Romans 7:14-27, helps us understand the struggle Paul was experiencing. The problem is self, self-effort,…
In our last visit we found there’s a wonderful answer to Paul’s agonizing cry in Romans 7:24, “What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body…
After looking at the practical dynamics in the process of being sanctified in Romans 7, Paul concluded that there is only One, Jesus Christ our Lord, who could rescue him…
In my mind Romans 8 is one of the most important chapters in the whole Bible. It is packed with truth, which, if understood and applied, will make all the…
Today let’s consider what Paul teaches about God the Father in Romans 8: First, God’s plan determined. Verses 29-30 say, “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed…
Considering what Paul taught about God the Father in Romans 8 we now come to the third point: God’s plan delighted in. In Romans 8:14, through the ministry of the…
Let’s focus on two statements in our study of Jesus Christ. Romans 8:32 says, God “did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all.” Philippians 2:6…
Jesus said, “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever – the Spirit of truth” (John 14:16-17). As we continue our…
What does the title “firstborn” among many brothers in Romans 8:29 signify? Some think it refers to Jesus as the first to experience resurrection into the eternal state. Though that’s…
As we’ve studied what Paul teaches about Jesus Christ in Romans 8 we found that he is our elder brother, the firstborn, and as such, a fellow heir. Listen to…
As we continue our study of Romans 8, let’s consider the phrase in verse 17, “share in his glory.” In eternity past, Jesus Christ, as God the Son, shared with…
According to Romans 8 Jesus Christ’s present ministry for the believer is twofold. He indwells us and He intercedes for us. One of the great themes of Paul’s epistles is…
When Paul builds his case for our encouragement in Romans 8 he presents a question: “Who is he that condemns?” Often, when seeking to grow as a Christian we…
Paul closes Romans 8 by presenting his most powerful truth about Jesus Christ: His love. He asks: “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” (verse 32). Before he’s…
As I mentioned when we started studying Romans 8 it is one of the most profound chapters in the Bible. We’ve studied what it says about God the Father and…
Because of what Jesus Christ did on the cross, anyone who trusts in Him has the Holy Spirit living in them. His presence brings into action a new law, the…
We’ve been studying in Romans 8 what Paul teaches about God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. Now consider what Paul says about man in this…
In our last visit we studied how an unsaved person experiences salvation and sanctification. What Paul promised in Romans 8:29-30 was from eternity past established by God, yet experienced by…
In our last visit we considered the blessing of being God’s children once we trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior. Romans 8:17 adds to this relationship the assurance that…
As we saw in our last visit, living under the control of the Holy Spirit is how a life full of blessing is experienced personally and expressed purposefully toward others. …
It’s interesting to study Paul’s teaching about all of creation in Romans 8 as part of our powerful potential and ultimate hope as Christians. His teaching is based on what…
As we continue our study of the book of Romans in the New Testament we now come to what might be called a parenthetical interlude. In this section of Romans,…
In our last visit I suggested we reflect on what Paul shared about his passion for his Israelite brothers. Listen to chapter 9:1-4, “I speak the truth in Christ –…
In our last visit we considered the Apostle’s passion for his brothers, described in Romans 9:1-4. He said he was willing to forfeit his own relationship with Christ, if that…
As I read and reflected on Romans, chapters 9-11, I felt these chapters could be outlined under this title: The Sovereign Rule of God in Redemption. The outline would show…
As we continue our study of Romans 9-11 let’s focus on God’s sovereign activity in electing some to salvation in chapter 9. To many this is difficult truth to grasp…
In our last visit we began looking at what Paul said in Romans 9 about what won’t work in the faith relationship and righteousness that is experienced in salvation. Privilege…
In recent visits we’ve seen the futility of seeking a relationship with God on our own terms. In Romans 9 Paul explains how some, through believing, enter into a relationship…
In our last visit we discovered, according to Romans 9, if you are a believer and have a personal relationship with God and are declared righteous, it’s because of God’s…
If you’ve found it difficult to process and accept what Paul says in Romans 9 about the Sovereign Rule of God in Redemption, then think of how hard it…
“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:15). After wrestling in Romans 9 with the role of God’s sovereignty in redemption, Paul addresses some issues…
“They are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge” (Romans 10:2). In our last visit we began doing a focus and amplify study of Romans 10. …
In our last visit we began looking at some of the problems Paul describes in Romans 10 that cause people to resist the gospel. He shares his heart concern and…
“My heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved” (Romans 10:1). We’ve been studying the problems that hinder faith described in Paul’s letter…
In our study of Romans 10 we have been amplifying the focus of the chapter: The journey of those who believe. As we amplified this focus we have seen there…
Some people are drawn to God by what they see in the beauty, order and majesty of His creation. This is part of the proclamation God uses to confront people…
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Joel 2:32). Let’s look again at Paul’s argument in Romans 10:14-15. When God sends one of His own…
We’ve been studying what Paul wrote in Romans 10:14-15 about the process of reaching the lost through the proclamation of the good news. In our last study we noted a…
In our last visit we actually transitioned from proclamation to personal response as seen in Romans 10. We’ve been amplifying the focus of this chapter, the journey of those who…
“I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me” (Romans 10:20). In recent visits we’ve looked in Romans 10 at the journey of those who believe. We’ve focused…
“Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2nd Timothy 2:15 KJV). I pointed out as we…
“The mystery made known to me by revelation” (Ephesians 3:3). As I mentioned in our last visit the title I gave for Romans 9-11 was, The Sovereign Rule of God…
“To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Ephesians 3:21). As we began our study of Romans 11 we…
“I will harden Pharaoh’s heart” (Exodus 7:3). “Pharaoh…hardened his heart” (Exodus 8:15). As we continue to do a chapter study of Romans 11 let’s focus on finding some cross references that…
When doing a study like we’ve been doing in Romans 11 you will no doubt run into some questions or problems. Or you might think of an issue someone else…
During the past week we have been doing a study of Romans 11. Thus far we’ve given the chapter a title, chosen a key verse, developed a statement that captures…
In our last visit we began developing an outlining for Romans chapter 11. Under the title, The Mystery of God’s Master Plan, we listed three main points and began amplifying…
“At the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace” (Romans 11:5). As we’ve studied Romans chapter 11 for a number of days now we have developed an outline…
“God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable” (Romans 11:29). In our last visit we concluded by making the point that God isn’t through with Israel as a nation yet. He…
“Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in” (Romans 11:19). In our last visit we saw in Romans chapter 11 that when the Israelites rejected the Gospel…
“Until the full number of the Gentiles has come in” (Romans 11:25). One of the intriguing aspects of what Paul presents in Romans chapter 11 is the hope that the…
“At the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace” (Romans 11:5). In recent visits we’ve focused on God’s dealings with the Israelites and the Gentiles as seen in…
“From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise” (Matthew 21:16). We’ve been working our way through the theological maze of Romans 11. Every time you think you…
God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24) In our last visit I shared with you one of the most moving, beautiful and…
The Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him. (Habakkuk 2:20) I shared my experience of Biblical worship which had some similarities to what…
Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! (Romans 11:33) This is how Paul expresses his worship of God. Being infinite the riches of the…
Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor? (Romans 11:34) In Romans 11:33 Paul is humbly worshiping God. “Oh, the depth of the riches…
To him be the glory forever! Amen. (Romans 11:36) In recent visits we’ve looked at Paul’s burst of praise and humble worship expressed at the close of Romans 11. Let’s…
Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness. (1st Chronicles 16:29) We’ve concluded our study of Romans 11 and the doxology with which Paul closes the chapter. I was…
Cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature. (Romans 11:24) We’ve been studying Romans 11 for some time now. It’s time for us to consider some practical…
It is by grace you have been saved, through faith. (Ephesians 28 In our last visit we considered the need to humble ourselves before God and trust in His grace…
Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. (Psalm 95:6) To this point in considering some applications based on our study of Romans…
This is your spiritual act of worship. (Romans 12:1) We closed the last program by summarizing what we learned from our study of Romans 11. Romans 12, begins the final…
In view of God’s mercy. (Romans 12:1) In our last visit we began to look at the final section of the book of Romans. Romans 12, verses 1-2 are foundational…
Let’s continue our study of Romans 12:1-2. In verse 2 the verbs are in the present tense, which means they are to be ongoing. “Do not (continue to) conform any…
Be transformed by the renewing of your mind. (Romans 12:2) We’ve seen in our study of Romans 12:1-2 that after making a once for all commitment of our lives to…
Test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2) We have been studying Romans 12:1-2 in recent visits. Paul calls us to make…
In our last visit we saw according to Romans 12:1-2 that God’s will is good, pleasing and perfect. God wants us to experience His will every day and throughout our…
In recent visits we have studied Romans 12:1-2 which is a transitional statement between what Paul taught in the first eleven chapters and the practical applications found in the remaining…
In our last visit we started a focus and amplify study of Romans 12. I pointed out that the last half of verse 21 states the focus cogently: “Overcome evil…
Think of yourself with sober judgment. (Romans 12:3) In our last visit I pointed out that we are to make an honest judgment of how God has gifted us, and…
In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. (Romans 12:5) Paul practiced what he preached in Romans 12. Notice how he…
In amplifying the focus of Romans 12, overcome evil with good, we’ve seen how God wants us to use our spiritual gifts in serving Him and others. Now we come…
Let’s read together what Paul says about spiritual gifts in Romans 12:6-8. “We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him…
If it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. (Romans 12:8) In our last visit we studied what Paul said in Romans 12:6-8 about spiritual gifts and how to…
If it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. (Romans 12:8) In our last visit we studied what Paul said in Romans 12:6-8 about spiritual gifts and how to…
Love must be sincere. (Romans 12:9) In our last visit I pointed out that in each of the major portions of the Bible where spiritual gifts are mentioned love is…
Love never fails. (1st Corinthians 13:8) Let me share with you today what I believe genuine love looks like as described in 1st Corinthians 13:4-8. In times of stress love…
Let those who love the Lord hate evil. (Psalm 97:10) When our love is sincere we will “Hate what is evil; (and) cling to what is good” (Romans 12:9). This…
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. (Romans 12:10) Paul understood well how hard it is to stand up for what is good when standing alone. That is why…
Patient in affliction. (Romans 12:12) In our study today we will look at Romans 12:12 where Paul gives three powerful, succinct statements: “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful…
Faithful in prayer. (Romans 12:12) We looked at Romans 12:12 in our last visit: “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” To persevere in the face of…
Bless those who persecute you. (Romans 12:14) We have been amplifying the focus of Romans 12 in recent days. We identified the focus of the chapter as being, “overcome evil…
Bless those who persecute you. (Romans 12:14) We have been amplifying the focus of Romans 12 in recent days. We identified the focus of the chapter as being, “overcome evil…
Be willing to associate with people of low position. (Romans 12:16) As we continue our study of Romans 12 to see how Paul amplifies the topic of grace as a…
Do not be proud. Do not be conceited. (Romans 12:16) In our last visit I shared an experience I had as a young man. I noticed how a prominent preacher…
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand. (1st Peter 5:8) Have you ever heard in a discussion on leadership that if you want to be a winner, “Surround yourself with…
Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. (Romans 12:17) We have been studying how we can live the life of grace toward others as described…
Live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18) The instructions Paul gives in Romans 12 get tougher with each new verse. We have seen how our spiritual gifts and love play…
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18) In our last visit we studied the command in Romans 12:18, “If…
If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. (Romans 12:20) Paul wrote in Romans 12:19: “It is written: ‘It is mine to…
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head. (Romans 12:20) I was fascinated by an illustration that throws a whole new light on what Romans 12:20 means:…
The Lord will reward you. (Proverbs 25:22) As we come to the conclusion of our study of Romans 12 I would like to make one final observation about Paul’s quote…
Being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory. (2 Corinthians 3:18) Today we begin a study of Romans 13. I would like to introduce you to the inductive Bible study…
Love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. (Romans 13:8) In our last visit we reviewed what is involved in doing an inductive Bible study…
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities. (Romans 13:1) Let’s continue with our inductive study of Romans 13. We’ve observed what was said in the text of the chapter. …
Do what is right. (Romans 13:3) Yesterday we tried to understand Paul’s statement in Romans 13:1-2 that we should submit to those in authority because they are there by God’s…
He (that is, the government authority) is God’s servant to do you good. (Romans 13:4) Let’s continue trying to understand what Paul wrote concerning our civil responsibilities in Romans 13. …
Because of conscience. (Romans 13:5) In our last study of Romans 13 we considered what actions are legitimate for Christians who live under unjust authorities. Multitudes of Christians do. Should…
If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. (Romans 13:7) Paul emphasized in Romans 13:5 that we should live in…
Let no debt remain outstanding. (Romans 13:8) Let’s continue our inductive study of Romans 13. Paul broadens his challenge to “Give everyone what you owe him,” in verse 7, to…
Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another. (Romans 13:8) When talking about debt, the challenge of getting out of debt and staying out of…
Do this, understanding the present time. (Romans 13:11) We have been doing an inductive study of Romans 13, trying to understand what Paul is saying. Thus far we’ve seen that…
Put aside the deeds of the darkness and put on the armor of light. (Romans 13:12) We have been doing an inductive study of Romans 13. First we read, observed…
Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 13:14) In our last visit we began interpreting Paul’s description of “the deeds of darkness” as described in Romans 13:13, “orgies and…
Since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. (Hebrews 4:1) We’ve been doing…
We are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being and those who are perishing. (2 Corinthians 2:15) Before closing our inductive study of Romans 13 there…
As we move on in our study of this most important book in the Bible I would like to do a devotional study of the next section, Romans 14:1-15:13. Some…
We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. (Romans 15:1) As we begin our devotional study of Romans 14:1-15:13 let…
The Root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations. (Romans:15:12) In our last visit we studied what Paul said about God the Father…
Anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. (Romans 14:18) Thus far in our devotional study of Romans 14:1-15:13 we answered the questions,…
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us. (Romans 15:4) As we continue our devotional study of Romans 14:1-15:13 let’s consider what Paul says about…
Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. (Romans 15:7) In our study today let’s find out what Paul says about man in…
Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. (Romans 15:2) It is important to understand what Paul’s focus is in Romans 14:1-15:13. He is…
We live or die, we belong to the Lord. (Romans 14:8) In our study today we will look for promises to claim in Romans 14:1-15:13. Whenever you feel as though…
We will all stand before God’s judgment seat. (Romans 14:10) In our last study we considered promises to claim in Romans 14:1-15:13. Now let’s look for warnings to heed. The…
Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. (Romans 14:20) In our last visit we studied what Paul said in Romans 14:1-15:13 about our being responsible…
It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or do do anything else that will cause your brother to fall. (Romans 14:21) We’ve been studying what Paul said…
Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters, (Romans 14:1). We’ve been doing a devotional study of Romans 14:1-15:13. In this study we tried answering some…
I have been longing for many years to see you. (Romans 15:23) Paul Harvey, the well-known radio personality, is known for sharing "the rest of the story!" Many who read…
After I have completed this task. (Romans 15:28) If you are going through a time of transition you don’t need to get discouraged. You can make it through the transition…
I have finished the race. (2 Timothy 4:7) After visiting missionaries on a number of fields a few years ago I came away concerned because far too many of them…
I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me. (Romans 15:18) Paul knew how to manage his life and ministry so he could finish the…
So after I have…made sure that they have received this fruit, I will go to Spain. (Romans 15:28) In our last visit we began amplifying the focus of Romans 15:14…
I plan to do so. (Romans 15:24) We have been studying Romans 15:14 through chapter 16 to find out some secrets Paul utilized to stay on target in his work…
It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known. (Romans 15:20) In studying Romans 15:14 through chapter 16 we found that Paul was organized…
That my service in Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints there. (Romans 15:31) Do you find it hard to keep being productive while going through transition? Is it…
I have written you quite boldly on some points. (Romans 15:15) In recent visits we have seen that the apostle Paul maintained discipline in his life by establishing a purpose…
Paul went to see them, and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them. (Acts 18:3) It’s always helpful to see something you’re working…
Times of transition can be unsettling. Getting preoccupied dealing with all the things involved in a time of transition can keep you from some important things necessary to stay…
Brothers, pray for us. (1 Thessalonians 5:25) In our last visit we considered the importance of having a Biblical basis for doing what we do in life with our time…
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. (Ecclesiastes 4:12) One of the best antidotes to discouragement while going through transition is to have others stand with you…
They risked their lives for me. (Romans 164) It is always interesting to hear how your life has touched others. It’s also interesting to hear how others have ministered…
They risked their lives for me. (Romans 16:4) In a recent study we noted all of the people Paul refers to in Romans 16. I’m sure he considered each of…
All the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them. (Romans 16:4) In our last visit we began a biographical study of the life of Priscilla and Aguila mentioned in…
They invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. (Acts 18:26) In our biographical study of Priscilla and Aquila we have gathered information…
A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of…Rufus. (Mark 15:21) Let’s continue doing a biographical study of another person mentioned in Romans 16. In Romans 16:13 we read, “Rufus,…
Rufus, chosen in the Lord. (Romans 16:13) In our last visit we were working on a biographical study of the man Rufus, mentioned in Romans 16:13. When we correlated the…
I commend to you our sister Phoebe…she has been a great help to many people, including me. (Romans 16:1&3) Today I’d like to do a biographical study of another person…
He sent two of his helpers. (Acts 19:22) Let’s look at another person mentioned in Romans 16:23, “Erastus, who is the city’s director of public works.” We find two other…
The ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. (Revelation 12:9) You can count on it, during times of transition, God will be working in…
Now to him who is able to establish you. (Romans 16:25) If you’re going through a time of transition I’m sure you have experienced opposition of one sort or another. …
God is able to make all grace abound to you. (2 Corinthians 9:8) In our last visit we considered God’s ability to establish peace in our hearts no matter what…
Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear – hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh. …
What I received I passed on to you as of first importance. (1 Corinthians 15:3) Paul lived to share with anyone and everyone God brought his way what he had…
By your words you will be acquitted. (Matthew 12:37) In our last visit we discovered the first step people need to know and accept if they want to know God…
Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! (1 Corinthians 9:15) The good news about Jesus Christ is that He is a gift from God the Father to be received…
You are going to receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you must be witnesses for Me. (Acts 1:8 The New Testament, Charles B. Williams, MBI, 1949)…
We’ve been studying about pre-evangelism, evangelism and post-evangelism in recent visits. A good thing to do this Christmas would be to reflect on the people who influenced your life. Ask…
As I mentioned in our last visit, my parents, especially my Mother, had a profound impact on my life. It was the environment they created in our home that set…
As I mentioned in our last visit leaders in Youth for Christ had a positive influence in my growth as a Christian, and in my preparation for ministry as an…
I regularly encourage parents to pray for their children, especially if they rebel and resist the truth. I became a Christian at age 9 but I was not discipled in…
Recently I felt drawn to study the book of 2 Peter. To start I read over the book a few times, meditated on what I’d read and prayed for understanding. When…
In our last visit we began a fact-finding study of 2nd Peter. We began answering the question, “Who is included in the context of this letter?” Peter and all true believers. Chapter 2…
There are three more questions in the study approach we are using to begin our study of 2nd Peter. First, where was Peter as he wrote this letter? There are a number…
In our last visit we discovered that Peter makes it clear: having a personal knowledge of Jesus Christ’s person, plan, provision and promise is essential to living victoriously as a…
The first reference to experiential knowledge is found in the opening verse of 2nd Peter. Peter identifies himself as a servant, or more correctly, a slave of Jesus Christ. In addition, he is…
In our study of 2nd Peter 1:1-11 we noted four references to “knowledge.” Three refer to knowledge that is clear and precise, experienced in an intimate, personal relationship. The second reference in verse…
In our last visit we reflected on what 2nd Peter 1:3 promised: God’s “divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness.” Now let’s discover how what God has…
We discovered in our last visit the key that releases God’s power so everything we need for life and godliness will be provided for us. That key is “the knowledge of…
In recent visits we’ve discovered in 2nd Peter 1:3-4 the key to experiencing God’s power and promises in our lives. Power to give us everything we need for life and…
Let me continue to unpack my thoughts based on the phrase in 2nd Peter 1:3, “through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” Consider…
As we continue to reflect on some thoughts I came up with while studying 2nd Peter 1:3 consider the couplet: Jesus Christ, the Son of God, God the Son, is…
In our last visit we considered a number of couplets I wrote while reflecting on some of what I know about Jesus Christ as part of our study of 2nd Peter…
The next couplet I would like to share with you based on our study of 2nd Peter 1:3-4 is this: Jesus is authoritative in his word and authentic in his…
I trust you’re finding these reflections on what I know about my Savior Jesus Christ a source of encouragement and inspiration. Let me share another couplet: He is august in His…
We come now to the final couplet in my reflections on what I’ve come to know about my Savior Jesus Christ: He is universal in His appeal, but exclusive in…
I said in our last visit I was sharing my last couplet of truth about my God and Savior Jesus Christ. Well, I thought of another. It grew out of the point…
In our study of 2nd Peter we’ve discovered what God provides in our relationship with Him. He’s the one who provides Salvation, which is the foundation for our relationship with Him. He also…
In our last visit we reviewed what I believe is foundational for what Peter encourages in 2nd Peter 1:5-11. He says, “For this very reason, make every effort to add…” In other words,…
In our last visit we introduced what our part is in the process of growing in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. This is what Dr. Wuest says about…
I trust you read and meditated on 2nd Peter 1:5-11 and compared it to Galatians 5:22-23 as I suggested in our last visit. Do this periodically while we study the qualities Peter…
In our study of 2nd Peter 1:5-11 we discovered what Peter meant when he instructed us to “make every effort to add to your faith goodness.” Ordering your life as one who…
I shared in our last visit that growth in any area of your life demands a certain amount of adjustment, pain and sacrifice. It also demands self – control or personal…
As we continue to unpack the list of qualities in 2nd Peter 1:5-11 that Peter encourages us to add to our faith we now come to perseverance. Once you determine to demonstrate…
We come now to a very important quality in the list enumerated in 2nd Peter 1:5-11. Why should we add to our faith goodness, knowledge, self – control and perseverance? Peter says,…
If you’ve been studying along with us in 2nd Peter 1:1-11 I trust you’ve gained an appreciation of what the Christian life is all about. I’ve been enriched as I’ve pondered these…
In our last visit we saw that the quality of brotherly affection which is to be added to our faith is better than nothing, but it’s not all Jesus desires…
We’ve been studying 2nd Peter 1:1-11 for some time now. In our last visit we began to understand the quality of agape love as seen in the love demonstrated toward us by the…
Now that we’ve studied in 2nd Peter 1:5-11 the qualities Peter encourages us to add to our faith two considerations emerge. Should we work hard on any one of these qualities,…
In our study of 2nd Peter 1:1-11 there are a couple of words that caught my attention and peeked my interest to go deeper in what Peter was sharing. The words are…
Looking at the sentence I focused on in our last visit there is another emphasis I would like to reflect on today. The sentence is 2nd Peter 1:8, “If you possess these…
As we continue our study of 2nd Peter 1:1-11 we come now to the punch line in verses 10-11: “Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling…
As I shared in our last visit, I was caught and hooked by the phrase in 2nd Peter 1:10, “you will never fall.” It’s like a child, I said, holding on to…
Let’s look again at 2nd Peter 1:10 where we are strongly challenged to make our calling and election sure. Actually, our calling and election are actions God takes. When He calls, it is an invitation…
Today we come to the final point Peter makes in 2nd Peter 1:1-11. He points out that if you as a Christian trust in God for His abundant provisions to live as…
With the foundation Peter laid in the first 11 verses of 2nd Peter 1 he immediately gives his reason for saying what he said. He writes like a parent to his children,…
In our last visit we pointed out how Peter amplified the focus of what he was sharing in chapter 1 of 2nd Peter: he wanted them to understand what goes into…
In our last visit we began to amplify Peter’s focus in the second half of 2nd Peter 1: How does a believer discover and use the key to an abundant life…
Peter’s purpose for writing 2nd Peter was to remind his readers, refresh their memory, so they would always remember what they already knew and were established in. He further amplifies his point…
After declaring he saw with his own eyes the magnificence of Christ’s transfiguration Peter goes on to say in 2nd Peter 1:17-18, Christ “received honor and glory from God the Father…
In our study of 2nd Peter it is clear Peter had a good grasp of where his readers were in their faith journey. He wanted to affirm them, warn them about the…
When Peter talked about his experience in 2nd Peter 1 he made it clear his description of what happened was not the result of a fertile imagination. Then, referring to the prophets,…
After reflecting on 2nd Peter chapter 1 for almost two months now I came up with the following outline for what we have shared thus far. The focus I would give this…
With chapter 1 of 2nd Peter under our belts let’s move on to the rest of this book. Peter wanted his readers to have a firm foundation for their faith because they…
In our last visit we began to look into chapter 2 of 2nd Peter. We saw that there is always a danger of believers being led astray by false prophets. This is seen…
To do a more thorough study of 2nd Peter 2 let me suggest we do what I call a ‘4S’ study. The four S’s stand for spread, sort, structure, and summarize. This…
In our last visit we began doing a “4S” study of 2nd Peter 2 by spreading and sorting into groups information found in this chapter. After reflecting on these groups of information…
In our last visit we didn’t finish listing the things Peter says in 2nd Peter 2 to describe false prophets and teachers. We listed what is said about their character and conduct. Now…
We have been studying 2nd Peter 2 to discover the dangers associated with the influence of false teachers in the church. One of the things Peter talks about in this chapter…
As we’ve been studying about false teachers described in 2nd Peter 2, Peter not only warns us about the devastating impact they have on those who follow them. He interjects truth and…
In our last visit I shared how Peter encouraged those he was writing to scrutinize the conduct and communication of their spiritual leaders and visiting teachers who might be asked…
We now move to the third chapter of 2nd Peter. To study this portion let me suggest we use what I call the chapter study. The primary objective with any study is…
As we continue doing a chapter study of 2nd Peter 3, I’d like to share with you some cross references that would be good to read to broaden our understanding. I believe…
In our last visit we began to outline 2nd Peter 3: Skeptics, God, His Promises, and His expectations. Let’s amplify point one by doing some wholesome thinking on what Peter says about…
In our last visit we began to consider one topic in 2nd Peter 3 about which we need to do some wholesome thinking, that is, what Peter said about scoffers who…
In our study of 2nd Peter 3 we began to amplify the outline in recent visits. Let’s continue. Under point one we focused on what Peter wrote about skeptics during the last…
In our last visit we began to amplify what Peter says about God in 2nd Peter 3. Let’s continue. God promised Jesus Christ would return. The skeptics scoff and question, “Where is this…
In our consideration of what Peter said in 2nd Peter 3 about God we have seen that His promises are sure. We can count on Him fulfilling His promises. We must acknowledge however…
In our study of 2nd Peter 3 we’ve considered what Peter said about skeptics, God, and God’s promises. Now let’s look at what he says about the kind of people we ought…
In our last visit we pointed out some things Peter encourages us to be about in 2nd Peter 3. The time of Christ’s return is approaching. God wants us to be ready and…