We have been exploring the use of the term Today in the book of Hebrews. This is the 7th and final use of the term by the author. At the very least, the ideal of Today is a minor theme in Hebrews. In this passage, the theme Today is linked to ministers and Christian leaders. Remember your leaders, those who spoke the word of God to you; consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ... Read more
There is a way that Paul defines light, and it’s specific to Paul. It’s in all his Epistles. Every single time Paul uses the term light, he does not define it the way we would typically define it, as physical or real light. Every time Paul uses the term light, he uses it in a spiritual sense. He uses light as a metaphor. It means that something greater is going on. It can mean that the light of the Gospel... Read more
This study in Hebrews has certainly been a surprise. From time to time, I am astonished by a theme in Scripture, as if I had never seen it before. In this case, the theme of Today in Hebrews has captured my imagination again, as it did when I was in high school. I see now that the study could be far more complex. Perhaps at some point, I will be able to explore the Christology that the author of Hebrews... Read more
I’ve been honored to be preaching at a local congregation here this summer. So I’ve taken the opportunity to walk through the last half of chapter 4 in Ephesians. I’ve been making the shift over into chapter 5. I took time last week to share a sermon with you on Ephesians 5.1-8. To read or hear that sermon CLICK HERE This week, I’m going to work through Ephesians 5.2, 8, 14. For the FREE sermon notes CLICK HERE Our Walk... Read more
But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” so that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. – Hebrews 3.13, NRSV This verse stands on its own as a sentence. I have started chasing the theme Today or This Day in Hebrews. To read Today in Hebrews: This Day or Today CLICK HERE One of the reasons why this verse is important is because it uses the term Today, but it also... Read more
The word “walk” is the word live. It can literally mean to regulate your life for something, to practice the practices, or the disciplines. Walk in love. That something that we’re walking in has to be love, and that word love is “agape.” Agape could mean commitment. It could mean perseverance. It could also possibly mean endurance. Agape is a very strong word in the Greek, but what makes it more interesting is that Paul associates agape love with what... Read more
I’m in the middle of a study in Hebrews. I would definitely consider it a preliminary study. I’m taking a look at the use of the term Today in this unique book. Although I am familiar with these five passages, I realized something as I dug deeper. For future studies, I would have to consult some robust Christology sources because our Lord seems to be intricately connected to the way Today is developed in Hebrews. Hebrews 1.1-5 In Hebrews chapter 1,... Read more
Preview from the 2nd Sermon: All said and done, I really like the King James here: “Hot Displeasure” (Psalm 6.1). Lord, don’t chastise me in thy hot displeasure! That speaks to me of the Spirit sorrowing over us as Paul says, or in your translation “Do not grieve the Holy Spirit” (Ephesians 4.30). He may not be as mad at us as we might think He is, or maybe as David thinks He is at that moment. We may need... Read more
Even on those days when we are ragged, haven’t change out of our pajamas, are tackling 5 extra large loads of laundry, clipping 60 plus finger and toenails, preparing 3 meals and numerous snacks, mopping the floor for the third time in a 2 hour period, fumbling through papers trying to find that “one” important document while briefly stopping by the mirror to tuck back lose hairs and wipe the mascara from under our eyes as we rush to answer... Read more
Three Messages | Ephesians 4.17-24 An experiment for YouTube and the blog from some recent opportunities to share the message I’ve been honored to share some messages as an itinerant preacher at Long Lake Church and West Bay Covenant Church this summer. There are others who have shared as well. It’s always good to have an opportunity to do what I can, especially when I look around and see other ministers who are making amazing contributions to the greater church... Read more
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