One of the greatest challenges for Christians is to not harden our hearts when we face challenges and suffering. The Hebrews writer points back to this psalm and the lessons from Israel’s time in the Wilderness, to teach us important lessons about spiritual perseverance. In this message we explore the characteristics of a soft heart,
Teaching Notes
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
Peter’s letter begins with a demolition of the modern so-called "prosperity gospel." He reminds us that our goal is heaven, not a comfortable life here on earth. We can rejoice in the face of suffering, which serves to refine our faith as gold is refined by fire. Peter’s challenges are especially compelling in view of
In this passage John challenges us to "abide in Him" in order that we be prepared for the Day of Judgment. Persevering all the way to the end can seem overwhelming, and so we consider the practical approach of Dr. William Osler, a Christian physician who advocated living life in separate "day-tight" compartments. We also
To Destroy the Works of the Devil (1 John 2:28-3:7) View Lesson
To Destroy the Works of the Devil (1 John 2:28-3:7) View Lesson
A third of the world's population calls itself Christian. Yet most believe that following Jesus and making it to heaven do not actually require obeying what He taught. In John 15, Jesus provides an allegory of the Vine and the branches, a beautiful picture of how to understand our relationship with Jesus and what is
**Due to the disturbing nature of the subject, this lesson may not be suitable for children** The Old Testament contains some things that are difficult for us to reconcile: oppression of women, brutal violence, indifference toward the helpless, and even genocidal wars. Perhaps the most disturbing story of them all (containing all of these elements) is the
The Most Disturbing Story in the Bible (Judges 19-21) View Lesson
The Most Disturbing Story in the Bible (Judges 19-21) View Lesson
Hidden in plain view, in the famous story of the Exodus from Egypt, we find a detailed map of the Christian journey of faith. The connection is suggested in one of the psalms, but revealed by insights from three books in the New Testament and by early Christians. This is an unforgettable, faith-building lesson that sheds
At the beginning of his ministry, Jesus gave Peter a new name and a new identity. Peter would have many trials and failures, but would become a pillar of faith for the Church as he served our Lord. What lessons can we learn from Peter's life, example and teaching, that we might have such faith? Teaching
This lesson tackles a foundational and often misunderstood teaching of the Kingdom of God revealed in many of Jesus' parables, including the parable of the wheat and the tares (weeds). God will ultimately separate the good and the evil at the last day. This lesson addresses our responsibility as individual Christians to strive to be