prayer Archives

Head Covering and Uncovering (1 Corinthians 11:2-16)

For over nineteen and a half centuries, there was little confusion in the church as to Paul's straightforward instructions to women to cover their heads when they pray (and to men to uncover when they pray). However, most churches today have relegated this passage to the dustbin, claiming it addresses only an ancient Corinthian custom.

Head Covering and Uncovering (1 Corinthians 11:2-16) View Lesson

Tabitha Raised and the Conversion of Cornelius (Acts 9:26-11:18)

Here we see in Tabitha, who Peter raised from the dead, a tremendous example of a godly woman. However, are the same qualities equally revered in Christian women today? Next, we come to the conversion of Cornelius, opening the gospel door to the Gentiles. Cornelius is described as a “righteous” man, with a life characterized

Tabitha Raised and the Conversion of Cornelius (Acts 9:26-11:18) View Lesson

Psalm 20 - Help in Time of Affliction

In Psalm 20, David writes of one facing affliction and the hope and protection available to this afflicted person. We consider the honest question: does God hear our prayers in times of trial? We also look at what it means to put our trust in "the name of the Lord" and the protection this brings.

Psalm 20 - Help in Time of Affliction View Lesson

A Prophet Like Moses; the Hours of Prayer (Acts 3:1-26)

This story begins with Peter and John going to the temple to pray at the ninth hour (approximately 3 pm), referred to as “the hour of prayer”. We consider the ancient Christian custom of praying multiple times during the day, and how those hours relate to the Passion of Christ. After Peter heals a crippled

A Prophet Like Moses; the Hours of Prayer (Acts 3:1-26) View Lesson

Four Characteristics of the First Church (Acts 2:42-47)

The first church is marked by devotion to four things: the apostles teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayers. Examining each one gives us an opportunity to evaluate our own spiritual communities and to identify opportunities for growth. We also consider how miraculous signs and wonders confirmed the gospel message in the beginning. We conclude

Four Characteristics of the First Church (Acts 2:42-47) View Lesson

Colossians in One and a Half Lessons - Part B

In this teaching we first tackle the question of why Paul wrote this letter (to address two doctrinal challenges facing the church). In addressing those problems, Paul develops the foundational idea that since Christians have died and been buried with Christ, we must now be raised with Him. This concept has profound implications regarding baptism and how we live

Colossians in One and a Half Lessons - Part B View Lesson

On the Angels

Angels are described in the New Testament as “ministering spirits” sent to help “those who will inherit salvation. Yet most Christians today know very little about the angels and their ministry. In this message we explore the history and nature of angels, how they have assisted God’s people throughout the ages and how they can

On the Angels View Lesson

Washed, Clothed and Anointed (Leviticus 8)

Why should we care about the ordination of the first priests? If we study this passage carefully, we may find ourselves hidden in the story. Like them, we have been washed, clothed with special clothing, anointed, and called to a ministry of sacrifice and prayer. Also, we will see that this anointing points to the

Washed, Clothed and Anointed (Leviticus 8) View Lesson

Psalm 5 - In the Morning You Shall Hear My Voice

David recounted his devotion to morning prayer in proclaiming: “In the morning You shall hear my voice.” Prayer warriors through the ages, including even Jesus, have been devoted to early morning prayer. However, does the hour at which we pray really matter? What is so special about rising early to pray? We consider insights from early Christian writer

Psalm 5 - In the Morning You Shall Hear My Voice View Lesson

Psalm 4 - Be Angry and Do Not Sin

In this psalm we see David's confidence that God hears his prayers. How can we be as confident that God hears our prayers? Also, David, inspired by the Holy Spirit, tells us to "be angry and do not sin," a passage later quoted by the apostle Paul. What does that mean? Is it always a sin to be angry?

Psalm 4 - Be Angry and Do Not Sin View Lesson