Philippians 2:14-18 – Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Even if I am to be poured out as a drink... Read more
Many struggle with the fifth commandment, which says, “Honor your father and mother.” (Exodus 20:12) There are some people who barely know their parents. Others have painful relationships them. So how does a person honor a mother or father who has wronged them? Maybe, the key lies in grace and forgiveness. In the video above, I examine this commandment and talk about ways to honor abusive, absent, or simply bad parents. Read more
Philippians 2:12-13 – Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. The holiday season is an overwhelming time for most people. Studies indicate that the pressures of travel, increased spending, holiday parties, crushing year-end workload, packed stores, strained family... Read more
While writing the book of Philippians from prison, Paul has a Holy Spirit impartation of joy that he wants all Christians to share. In just 104 verses, he speaks of joy repeatedly: 1:4 – my prayer with joy 1:18 – Christ is proclaimed…in that I rejoice. 1:25 – joy in the faith 2:2 – complete my joy by being of the same mind…the same love 2:17-18 – I am glad and rejoice with you all…be glad and rejoice with me 2:28-29... Read more
In our study of Philippians, we have established that the theme of Paul’s letter from prison is joy from God that enables us to enjoy whatever life brings. Some 19 times in 104 verses you will find works like “joy” and “rejoice”. Sadly, however, Christians who should be cheerful are often cheerless and here are 11 causes that are all bad teaching: God is not a happy God. The loving, unified Trinitarian God of the Bible is happy and made... Read more
From mistletoe and holly to Santa Claus and reindeer, not every Christmas tradition has its roots in the birth of Christ. So where did some of our favorite holiday customs come from? And more to the point – should Christians take part in them? I explore these questions in this week’s video with historical insight and practical wisdom. So watch it now to find out more about Christ and your favorite Christmas traditions. Read more
Surely our griefs He Himself bore, and our sorrows He carried; Yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our wellbeing fell upon Him, and by His scourging we are healed. —Isaiah 53:4–5, NASB As a father of five, like many, I was heartbroken to hear the story of the sudden death of a beautiful two-year old girl named Olive.... Read more
Philippians 1:27-30 Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God. For it... Read more
We live, we die, then what? The answer to that question should frame all of our life. As I write this daily devotion, I am sitting at an airport in Austin, Texas. Surrounding me are people who have architected their entire day to get to a desired destination. Some awoke early, others cancelled meetings to make a flight, and still others like me are adjusting their planned schedule to accommodate a flight delay. The point is simple – when you... Read more
Philippians 1:20-26 – …with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain... Read more
Pastor Mark Driscoll
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