Some thoughts about the chapter we used to celebrate the resurrection of our Jesus - Isaiah 52. I. Isaiah 52:6,“Therefore My people shall know My name; therefore, they shall know in that day that I am He who speaks: ‘Behold, it is I.’” God is speaking to the Jews - those who were taken captive in Egypt and to Assyria, 52:5.... Continue Reading →
God and Evil II
From GotQuestions.org Theodicy is a branch of philosophy dealing with the issue of evil in light of the existence of God. If God is just and holy and good, then how do evil and misery exist? That’s the question theodicy wrestles with. History’s most famous statement of the “problem of evil” comes from the ancient Greek philosopher... Continue Reading →
The Safety Idol
We had a couple visiting in October who were passing through and stayed for our fellowship dinner after the morning service. He had been a pastor for 30 years whose first wife died, and then married a widow whom he had met almost 50 years earlier when they were working in a ministry together as singles. They... Continue Reading →
FAITH
Hebrews 11:1, Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 11:3, By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, 11:6, But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. I Peter 1:5, who are kept... Continue Reading →
Isaiah 45:4-7
Isaiah 45:4-7 For Jacob My servant’s sake, and Israel My elect, I have even called you by your name; I have named you, though you have not known Me. 5 I am the Lord, and there is no other; there is no God besides Me. I will gird you, though you have not known Me, 6 That they may know from the rising of the sun to... Continue Reading →
God Is Sovereign!
In these days of upheaval, inflation, change, confusion, and “fear”, it is good to remind ourselves of the God we claim to acknowledge, say we love, and profess we are seeking to follow. What does God say about His authority, workings and reign? Consider: John 10:18, No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down... Continue Reading →
Grace IS Amazing!
Oh, the grace of God that saved an enemy like me! AT THE CROSS, Isaac WattsWas it for crimes that I have done, He groaned upon the tree? Amazing pity! Grace unknown! And love beyond degree! AT CALVARY, William Newell, 1895Years I spent in vanity and pride, caring not my Lord was crucified,Knowing not it was for me... Continue Reading →
Evil II
The challenge of reconciling God and evil theologically is termed Theodicy - which is “the vindication of divine goodness and providence in view of the existence of evil,” (W. Grudem) So, we live in a world of both good and evil and it seems everyone has their take on where the line is between the two such as: Driving 7 or 8 mph... Continue Reading →
Into My Heart
It is a common phrase and thought – “You need to accept Jesus into your heart.” We sing, “If you want joy, real joy, let Jesus come into your heart.” But, nowhere does the Bible use that terminology. From compellingtruth.org: What does it mean to 'ask Jesus into your heart'? (excerpt) Many have taught that a... Continue Reading →
Adam I and Adam II
Adam I was formed from the soil and God breathed into him life and he stood as a being made by God, eternal by God’s breath, and in God’s image [three in one – body, soul, spirit - able to create and control; able to appreciate love, joy, peace, beauty; and with a free will... Continue Reading →