Psalm 2 is quoted and referenced repeatedly in the New Testament, and for good reason. It provides the first prophecy that someone referred to as "the Christ" will come. It explains that this person will be the Son of God, but rejected by the powerful. This psalm lays a foundation for much of the New
Many Christians turn to the Psalms for comfort when facing hard times. However, if we consider how Jesus and the apostles used the Psalms, we see many more ways we can benefit from them. We begin this series with a study of Psalm 1, which provides simple, profound and practical lessons for us today. Putting
Introduction to the Psalms; Psalm 1 - Meditating on the Word View Lesson
Introduction to the Psalms; Psalm 1 - Meditating on the Word View Lesson
Peter concludes his letter speaking of "a new heavens and a new earth." He then describes how we should live, "looking forward to these things." In this lesson we examine the stark warnings of coming judgment and destruction of this world by fire, as well as the promise of new heavens and a new earth
Here Peter gives us much to consider about Jesus' return and the associated Day of Judgment. In this lesson we explore what the Scriptures teach about Jesus' return, along with foreshadowings from the Old Testament that may provide clues. We also consider God's long-suffering character, His heart of compassion toward mankind, and how our sense
Peter warns that corrupt teachers will come into the church, teachers who will be like Balaam. Although that Old Testament prophet was powerful in speech, the love of money and willingness to compromise led to his destruction and in leading Israel into terrible sin. Peter then compares Christians who return to their old way of
The entire Christian faith is based on the resurrection of Jesus from the grave on the third day. Either it happened or it did not. From the beginning, there were two competing explanations for the empty tomb, with each claiming a conspiracy by the other side. In evaluating the competing claims, we consider the powerful, logical argument made by early Christian writer Eusebius. We close by looking at implications of the resurrection: our hope of victory over death, and a demonstration of the incredible power of the Spirit.
One year ago we lost Chris Traganos, our dear friend and brother, to death. Chris ended his race strong, an upward call to us all. What happened to Chris after his death, and what will happen to us? In this lesson we look to Jesus and the apostles for the answers, and also consider how
Peter says that just as there were false prophets in the past, there will be false teachers in the church. Therefore, we should not be surprised when they appear. Yet many Christians believe that while this has happened to other groups, false teachers could never overtake their church! In this lesson we consider Peter’s warning
As we begin our study of 2 Peter, we address the question of the authenticity of this letter, one of the last to be accepted into the canon of the New Testament. Was the apostle Peter truly its author? How should we view this letter? We then turn to Peter's opening charge: that we continue
Introduction to 2 Peter and Growing Spiritually (2 Peter 1:1-15) View Lesson
Introduction to 2 Peter and Growing Spiritually (2 Peter 1:1-15) View Lesson
As he concludes his letter, Peter warns the Christians to be sober and vigilant as they face another form of suffering: the attacks of the devil. Peter compares Satan to a lion, seeking to devour the children of God. Unlike most modern Christian teachers, Jesus and the New Testament writers frequently mention Satan. In this