Many churches seem to focus on tithing, attendance numbers, beautiful buildings. Of course, we all know those things do not bring us closer to God. We need to feed on God’s word and then apply those truths to our lives. In our non-demoninational group, we never tithe nor ask for donations. We don’t own a [...]
Revelation 17:1, 5-6, 15-18 (ESV), “… Come, I will show you the judgment of the great prostitute who is seated on many waters, ... 5 And on her forehead was written a name of mystery: ‘Babylon the great, mother of prostitutes and of earth’s abominations.’ 6 And I saw the woman, drunk with the blood [...]
Many think if a person believes in Jesus and lives a righteous life, that is enough. Not so. Jesus said, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” Mark 8:34. We deny our own wills, bear opposition, and follow Jesus’s example. The relationship is based on [...]
The book of Colossians was written by the apostle Paul to the church at Colossae, a city in Asia Minor. After his greeting (verses 1-2) Paul expresses his thanks to God for them and encourages them in their dedication, service, and love in the spirit. (v. 3-8). He assures them of his prayers for them [...]
All animals, including pets, are souls. The Hebrew word for soul is נֶפֶשׁ or “nephesh”. Nephesh is translated in many different ways by most Bible translators. These differences hide the original meaning of the Hebrew text. However, the Rotherham Bible is an especially accurate, word-for-word translation. Consider Rotherham’s translation of Genesis 1:20-25, “And God [...]
Isaiah 28:14 pronounces judgment against the rulers in Jerusalem. This judgment would apply to any who embrace the doctrine of hell. In Verse 15 the rulers reply that they have an agreement or compact with death and hell (sheol see Hell, Death/Grave for an explanation of the truth on Hell). Clergy scare and control their [...]
The phrase, “son of God”, demonstrates the special relationship between parent and child. It indicates closeness, favor, protection, guidance, and love. In Luke 3:38, Mary’s genealogy records that Adam was a “son of God.” Adam was created perfect in God’s image and likeness. (See Genesis 1:27, Deuteronomy 32:4), and God was his heavenly Father. The [...]
Summary: To receive a heavenly resurrection, a person must accept Christ as his Savior, deny his own will to obey God’s will, and be faithful to the heavenly calling. Discussion: The Old Testament offered a promise of earthly, eternal life to anyone who could perfectly keep the Law. Leviticus 18:5 (CSB), “Keep my statutes and [...]
There is only one Almighty God. Isaiah 46:9, “I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me.” Jesus never said He was God. He always said He was the Son of God. He taught “my Father is greater than I,” John 14:28. Jesus submits Himself to God. [...]
The true religion will reflect the true God. What is God like? Consider how God’s natural creation demonstrates His attributes. Romans 1:20 (NIV), “For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature--have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made…” Briefly, creation reflects great power and wisdom. [...]