In looking at the upcoming observance of Halloween, what should the mindset of Christians be toward this holiday? The history behind the observance of Halloween (also see this article) indicates that it is pagan in nature, with its focus being on witchcraft [sorcery] and the occult, both of which are condemned in the Bible (Acts 8:9-11; […]

A querist asks, “In reading about the collection taken for Judea in Acts 11:27, due to the prophets vision by the Holy Spirit regarding impending famine, I would like to receive feedback on whether ornot this was the same collection from Romans 15:26 and 1 Corinthians 16:3 (two which I believe to be the same). […]

A querist asks, “In Jude 1:12-13, what does the symbolism refer to in these verses with reference to the false teachers mentioned in Jude 1:4?”

The following thoughts from Wilferd A. Peterson, a prolific American writer, contain practical principles regarding the raising of our children:

One of the greatest needs in our world today, is the idea of reconciliation. In order to establish and continue a healthy and proper relationship with others, we must be willing to admit our share of the responsibility of that relationship and be willing to unconditionally forgive when we have been wronged.

Paul promises that all who live godly in Christ will suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12), and it needs to be remembered that not all persecution is of a physical sort that touches our fleshly bodies. More, all will be tempted (1 Corinthians 10:13), and all will have those occasions when they sin (1 John 1:8, […]

In 1 Corinthians 6:1-8, Paul asks two questions of the saints at Corinth, regarding saints judging the world (1 Corinthians 6:2) and angels (1 Corinthians 6:3). A question we might ask ourselves is, “In what manner are saints to judge the world and angels?” The context in the beginning verses of 1 Corinthians 6 is […]

We live in a world where people speak constantly with little regard for whether what they say is true. In fact, we become so inundated with insincerity in every facet of life, that when we see or hear plain, honest speech or behavior, it leaps out at us as something

After completing many years as a journalist, Arthur Brisbane was offered six months of paid vacation time by William Randolph Hearst, the publisher of the San Francisco Examiner. Brisbane refused to accept the kind offer because of two reasons. He said, “If I quit writing my newspaper column for six months, it might affect the […]

Effective leadership is an integral part of a successful Christian life (Joshua 1:1-11; Joshua 24:14-31). Today, I’m posting a link to Michael Hyatt’s web site where he presents 4 Ways To Become A Leader People Want To Follow. I’ve added some appropriate Scriptures.

The following are some significant truths about our Lord and Savior that we should give thought to as children of God (Romans 8:16; Gal. 3:26; 1 John 5:2):

“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his live shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it” (Matthew 16:24-25). Few people, it seems, realize that self-denial […]

Our attitude toward giving to others, should be one of not expecting anything in return but to give just because we want to make the lives of people just a little bit brighter. Our giving should be free of pride and selfless in nature (1 John 3:16-18; cf. Deuteronomy 15:7-11).

Bible study on Acts 1:1-5, The Promise of the Holy Spirit. By G. E. Watkins

The following questions are good indicators of spiritual growth: Do we spend time reading God’s word and talking with Him each day in prayer? (2 Timothy 2:15 ASV; 1 Thessalonians 1:2). Do we look forward to fellowshipping with the Lord? (Hebrews 10:23-25). What “fruit of the Spirit” is apparent in our life? (Gal. 5:22). Do […]

Prayer and thankfulness are often joined in Scripture (Daniel 6:10; Philippians 4:6; Colossians 1:3; Colossians 4:2; 1 Timothy 2:1). Prayer is an expression of our thankfulness to a gracious and giving God. Genuine prayers of thanksgiving to God will express itself in three categories of blessings: We Are Thankful For What God “Has” Done For […]

Many people have asked me in the past few weeks, “What do you do on your mission trips, Kevin?” Most of the time I respond by saying that I teach, but I could also say that I ask a lot of questions and do a lot of listening as well. I try to understand, in […]

8) Jehovah-M’Kaddesh The name “Jehovah-M’Kaddesh” is found in Leviticus 20:8. It means “Jehovah who sanctifies.” The term “sanctify” occurs frequently in the Old Testament. Its primary meaning is “to set apart” or “separate”. This idea is most nearly rendered by the words “sanctify” or “hallow”. The word “holy” stands for that which is “hallowed” or […]

There is probably more harm resulting from the lack of decision than from the wrong decision (1 Kings 18:21). The secret is to distinguish between the inability to make a decision and the wisdom of waiting for new information or evidence.

Numerous early Christian martyrs were named Valentine. Which one was actually the hero of Valentine’s day we can’t be sure. There was a Saint Valentine who was persecuted as a Christian by the Roman Emperor, Claudius. He was impressed by Valentine and had a discussion with him, attempting to get him to convert to Roman […]