The Power of the Past

For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the sight of God. For it is written: “He is the one who catches the wise by their craftiness”;  1 Corinthians 3:19 NASB Foolishness – Pay attention to Richard Lim’s insight: “Christians, in particular, bore the brunt of such polemical assaults because they lacked the protective armor of…

Understanding Your Assumptions

By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.  Hebrews 11:3  NIV By faith – “by faith.”  So, what does that mean?  Does it mean that I simply take a leap into the non-rational and “believe”?  Does it mean that I don’t…

The Problem with James

Now faith  is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.  Hebrews 11:1 NASB Faith– James’ letter has always been a problem. In fact, it is such a serious problem that early church councils weren’t sure it should even be included in the canon.  Why?  Because James says crazy things like “What use is it, my…

Treasure Hunt

I tell you that He will bring about justice for them quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” Luke 18:8 NASB Faith – What will the Messiah be looking for when he returns? Faith. But what is faith? Is it having the trusting assurance of salvation? Is…

Chasing the Dream

Now flee youthful lusts, and pursue after righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord with a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:22 NASB Faith – Do you have faith? It’s a fair question—if you are thinking like a Greek. You see, in Greek thought it is possible to possess something, to…

Visible Belief

And Yeshua seeing their faith said to the paralytic, “My son, your sins are forgiven.”  Mark 2:5  (Tim Hegg translation) Seeing – “The very fact that Yeshua is described as ‘seeing their faith’ is indicative of how the Apostles defined faith.  Faith simply could not exist as a hidden thought in the heart.  Believing and…

Praise and Worship Music (3)

“The Rock!  His work is perfect, for all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, righteous and upright is He.”  Deuteronomy 32:4  NASB Faithfulness – Does Moses’ next line describe your God?  Is He a God of faithfulness?  First, we need to know about this Hebrew word, emunah.  We have a…

Dictionary Definitions

If you will not believe, surely you will not be established. Isaiah 7:9 Believe – What is faith? Ah, it seems like such a simple question until you try to give your definition. Faith is _____________. You’ll probably need a pretty big blank space to fill in. Just remember faith is a verb, so don’t…