Sermons and Biblical Studies

As humans, we tend to follow the patterns of others (Isaiah 9:16; cf. Matthew 15:14; Luke 6:39). The Corinthian brethren followed this tendency, but they shifted their focus away from Christ and onto individual personalities. Rather than emulating the Christ-like qualities of these personalities, they let their allegiances lead to various divisions and contentions in … Continue reading “Imitating Christ – Bible study”

Among the inspired writings of the apostle Paul, are his relationships with other Christians. Of Paul”s thirteen letters, four are personal letters to fellow laborers in the faith. Of his nine epistles to churches, three conclude with lengthy lists of individual salutations and commendations in which Paul expresses his appreciation for various saints by name. … Continue reading “Let's Give Thanks For Fellow Christians! – Bible study”

The story is told of a Christian soldier who was home on furlough from serving in the Army overseas. As he ran to catch his plane to fly back to his unit, he ran into a apple stand in the airport, knocking most of the piled-up apples to the floor. The young boy who operated … Continue reading ““Are You Jesus?” – Bible study”

If we’re Christians, we’ve probably heard the story about the 85-year-old man who was arrested for praying. Who was he you ask? He’s the Jewish resident by the name of Daniel. He was sentenced to death for faithfully talking to God (cf. Daniel 6:1-28). Although the prayer that sent Daniel into the lions den is … Continue reading “Daniel's Pattern Of Prayer – Bible study”

In September 2006, people around the world reacted with shock when the news media reported that Steve Irwin, the “Crocodile Hunter,” had died. His enthusiasm for life and for God’s creatures was contagious, making him a favorite television personality worldwide. When his wife was interviewed shortly after her husband’s death, her love for him was … Continue reading “How To Love Our Wives In A More “Princely Way” – Bible study”

In our prison system, the most dangerous inmates endure solitary confinement in small concrete cells. They have virtually no contact with the outside world. One inmate commented that the most difficult part of such isolation was “not being able to see somebody face to face to communicate, to touch, to hug, to feel loved, to … Continue reading “Developing Needed Friendships – Bible study”

Not long ago, I overheard an exchange between two brethren who were arguing whether gospel meetings still have an effective place in the work of the church. One brother contended that they are a waste of time and resources. The other brother argued for the opposing view. This writer is a firm believer in the … Continue reading “Proper Preparation Will Produce Proper Results – Bible study”

A lack of dependability pervades every kind of relationship in today’s society. Forty to fifty years ago, we used to routinely hear phrases like: “You have my word on it.” “A promise is a promise.” “You can count on me.” “My word is my bond.” And for the most part, folks meant these statements when … Continue reading “Does God Owe Us Something? – Bible study”

There existed in Jerusalem an elaborate temple constructed by Solomon. David had wanted to build God a house but God would not allow him to do so, because he was a man of blood (1 Chronicles 28:3), so Solomon was given the privilege. Its construction isrecorded in 1 Kings 5-6. Each hewn rock and timber … Continue reading “Where Is The Temple Of God Today? – Bible study”

How do we feel about someone who starts a sentence but never finishes it? How about someone who starts a job but never gets around to completing it? How about a man who is contracted for a job, but does not finish the job? Do we expect to win the prize if we do not … Continue reading “Faithfully Enduring To The End – Bible study”