Doctrine Matters

For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, will multiply teachers for themselves because they have an itch to hear what they want to hear. They will turn away from hearing the truth and will turn aside to myths. 2 Timothy 4:3–4 (CSB) How do…

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On Display

Instead, I sometimes think God has put us apostles on display, like prisoners of war at the end of a victor’s parade, condemned to die. We have become a spectacle to the entire world—to people and angels alike. 1 Corinthians 4:9 (NLT) People and products are put on display for two main reasons. First, like…

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Truth and Freedom

“And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32 (NLT) Truth is controversial. We live in a world of so-called “truth detectors,” and “fact checkers.” The self-appointed “guardians” purport to set the record straight, but then there are “fact checkers” for the “fact checkers.” And the cycle goes on…

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Don’t Be Deceived

Deception

You live in a world of deception. In their deception they refuse to know me. This is the Lord’s declaration. Jeremiah 9:6 (CSB) God’s words through Jeremiah ring true today. Ours is a world of deception. If we are reading a mystery novel or watching a magic act, deception can be entertaining. But it can also be…

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Sticks and Stones

“God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way. Matthew…

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In This World

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NIV) Pain, suffering, and tribulation are not pleasant topics of conversation. It is natural to desire to avoid pain. And yet, Jesus is telling…

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The Truth, the Whole Truth…

For I did not keep from declaring to you the whole counsel of God. Acts 20:27 (MEV) The apostle Paul was giving his farewell speech in Ephesus. To say that Paul was concerned about what would happen in the church after his departure is not an overstatement. Paul had invested three years of his life…

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Speak the Truth

Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. Ephesians 4:15 (NLT) Have you ever heard someone say, “Everyone has their own truth?” What exactly does that mean? Logically, if that were true, the case could be made…

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Sheep Among Wolves

Sheep among Wolves

“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore, be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” (Matthew 10:16, NIV) A pastor said recently, “… It is hard right now, feeling like you are walking on eggshells on all sides. At times one is afraid to speak or even to ask questions…

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