Posts Tagged ‘obedience’
Dangerous Alliances
We have all heard the saying “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” While it carries a lot of truth, those relationships rarely outlast the momentary need. In biblical times those alliances were often strengthened through arranged or negotiated marriages. Such was the case between Jehoshaphat, King of Judah,…
Read MoreNot Enough
With about a year to go before the primaries in our next national election, potential candidates from both main political parties are throwing their hats into the ring. Concern over the state of our nation has all eyes on this process, believing the right leadership will make all the difference…
Read MoreNot Pedigree, But Heart
The book of Judges contains a disturbing account of a young Levite who became the priest of one man’s household hosting a shrine that was adorned with an ephod, household idols, a carved silver image and a silver idol. This family was Jewish, and the Levite was a grandson of…
Read MoreForgiveness Conundrum
Jesus taught many hard Kingdom truths that are difficult to practice like loving your enemies and giving your possessions to someone who would otherwise steal them. Many of us conveniently ignore these teachings, or at best make grudging obligatory attempts. On the other hand, a majority of Christ-followers would probably…
Read MoreUrgent Wake-up Call
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells three parables identifying the type of people who will find themselves cast into outer darkness. The first is the servant who in his master’s absence is left in charge of the household and personnel, but abused his power/position. The second is about 10…
Read MoreMoving Day
The historical record of the patriarchs in the book of Genesis includes the account of Jacob with its timeless application. We think of current society as being very mobile, but when a relocation was ordered by God, Jacob and his family packed up all their possessions and without the aid…
Read MoreResponsibility for Government
We live in a nation of the people, by the people and for the people – a republic, where supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, including an elected president. Why then, do so many people feel oppressed by governing officials who seem to be making…
Read MoreThe Way of Forgiveness
As the authority on forgiveness, Jesus had a lot to say about it at a time when people had very little understanding and almost no experience in the subject. The 613 laws of the Jews did an effective job highlighting sin. But as the people understood it, only God could…
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