Finding Fulfillment in God's Kingdom
In Matthew 19, we encounter a rich young man who seems to have it all—wealth, spirituality, and a genuine desire for eternal life. When he asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life, Jesus challenges him to sell his possessions and follow Him. The young man walks away grieving.
Embracing a New Year with Jesus: Setting Spiritual Goals
If you're like many of us, you've probably set New Year's resolutions before, only to see them fade away by February. But what if this year could be different? What if you could set goals that not only stick but also transform your life? This isn't just about self-improvement; it's about spiritual growth and letting Jesus overflow into every part of your life. Let's explore how you can make this year a turning point in your faith journey.
Advent 2024: The Christ of Christmas
Who is Jesus? Over the last 2000 years, many people have tried to answer this question: historians, authors, skeptics, teachers, rockstars, celebrities, kings, and more. This question drives seekers to find the answer in many different places and ways. Each of us has been faced with this same question, and we need to have an answer. It’s important. Who is Jesus?
Embracing the Love of Jesus This Christmas
Do you ever pause to consider the true essence of Christmas? Beyond the twinkling lights, the festive gatherings, and the joy of giving and receiving gifts, lies a profound truth that can transform your life. This season, as we light the Love Candle on our Advent wreath, we're reminded of the incredible gift of Jesus' incarnation—a gift that not only leads to our salvation but also empowers us to love the world around us.
Finding Joy in the Unexpected
Have you ever felt like you were at the end of your rope, only to find hope in the most unexpected place? Imagine being a shepherd on a cold night, just doing your job, when suddenly the sky lights up with angels proclaiming the birth of a Savior. This is the heart of the Christmas story—a story of unexpected joy and hope.
Why Is Matthew 18:11 Missing in Most Bibles?
If you’ve ever opened your Bible to Matthew 18, you might have noticed something strange: verse 11 is missing. If you’re using a modern translation like the NIV, ESV, or NASB, you simply won’t find it. But if you’re using a King James Version (KJV) you’ll see that Matthew 18:11 is still included.
Embracing Discipline as an Act of Love
In Matthew 18, Jesus gives us a roadmap for dealing with sin in the church. He uses the image of "little ones" to describe us—weak, needy, and prone to conflict. We need Jesus, and we need each other. The main point of this teaching is clear: The church disciplines sin because it is an act of love that Christ has empowered us to enact.
Chasing After the Wanderers
Have you ever felt like you're just not good at being a Christian? Like you're stumbling through your spiritual journey, unsure of your footing? You're not alone. In fact, Jesus himself described his followers as "little ones," vulnerable and needy, much like children. This isn't a criticism but a profound truth about our spiritual lives. We are all weak and in need of guidance, and that's exactly where Jesus meets us.
Navigating the Election with a Christ-Like Heart
In Matthew 22:17-21, Jesus masterfully navigates a political trap set by the Pharisees. His response to them, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's," provides a profound insight into how we can balance our earthly responsibilities with our heavenly citizenship. This isn't just about paying taxes; it's about understanding that our ultimate allegiance is to God. Jesus makes the surprising statement that Alignment with God and some form of participation in corrupt earthly societies are not inherently at odds.
Trusting Jesus' Authority
Have you ever felt like your faith is falling short? Like you're trying to do everything right, but nothing seems to work? You’re not alone. In Matthew 17, we see the disciples facing a similar struggle. They had been following Jesus, witnessing His miracles, and even performing some themselves. But suddenly, they hit a wall. They couldn’t heal a boy suffering from seizures, and they were left wondering why.
Jesus the Son of God: Embracing the Comfort of His Presence
If you’re like many of me, the idea of connecting with a perfectly holy God can be downright terrifying. I often consider the weight of my own sin and just assume that God is either angry or disappointed with me. But what if I told you that Jesus, God’s Son, makes this connection not only possible but also comforting?
Jesus is the Victor: Embracing True Victory in Christ
On Sundays at Immanuel, we’ve been going through a series asking the question “Who is Jesus?” This last Sunday we latched onto a major truth in the exploration of Jesus’ identity: Jesus is the victor, and in Him, our victory is assured. This victory isn’t just about Jesus; it’s about you and me and how we live our lives.
Who is Jesus? Understanding the Messiah in Matthew 16
In Matthew 16, Jesus says: "Who do you say that I am?" This question is not just an interesting scene in Jesus’ story but rather a personal challenge that each of us must confront.
Finding Your Seat at Jesus' Table
You ever feel like you don’t belong? Like you’re out of place, even at church? Like maybe those people just have their life figured out better than you do? If you’re nodding your head, you’re not alone. Many of us have felt that way at some point. But here’s the good news: Jesus’ table has open seats for all who come to Him in faith.
Over Our Heads, But Not Alone
You ever feel like you're in way over your head? Maybe it's a new job, a tough class, or a broken relationship. We all have those moments where life throws us into a situation we feel totally unprepared for. If you're nodding along, you're not alone. Matthew 15 that speaks directly to this feeling and offers a powerful reminder of where our true help comes from.
Some Tips to Take Your Bible Reading to The Next Level
So you’re reading your Bible more and want to keep the momentum going. That’s great! I say this often, but Bible reading is the single most influential spiritual practice you can engage in. But even though that’s true, there’s always more to learn.