The one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked. 1 John 2:6 In The Same Manner – Here’s an interesting phrase: kathos ekeinos. Literally, it means “according to the same.” It comes before the verb “walk” in the Greek text. This places the emphasis on…
Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love Ephesians 5:1-2 Imitators – You would recognize this Greek word immediately. It is mimetes, from which we get “mimic.” What you probably wouldn’t recognize is how utterly different this word is from our Greek-based worldview. Mimic is not what it appears to be….
“therefore all that they tell you, do and observe, but do not do according to their deeds; for they say things, and do not do them. “ Matthew 23:3 All – Jesus endorsed the scribes and Pharisees. Yes, that’s right, He instructed His disciples to follow all that they taught – but not to follow…
“If a man makes an unusual vow to the Lord involving the valuation of persons,” Leviticus 27:2 (translation Wenham) Valuation – “Lord, if you only do this, then I will dedicate myself to you.” Have you ever said something like this, maybe in a moment of desperation? Have you ever made a promise to God…
You prepare a table for me before my enemies. Psalm 23:5 Prepare – Preparing a table has special meaning in the ancient culture of Israel. It was a sign of hospitality and a precursor to relationship commitments. That’s why you will often find meals associated with legal and political agreements. But in this psalm,…
Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 6:23 With – You wouldn’t think there was much to make from a preposition, but you might be wrong. You see, Paul is unusually particular about using his Greek prepositions in deliberate ways. The result is…
For they have refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore acknowledge such men. 1 Corinthians 16:18 Acknowledge – How do you treat those who are instrumental in lifting you up? If you read this verse in the Greek, it might change your actions. The word is epiginosko, an intensified verb from ginosko (to know). We might…
“I regret that I have made Saul king, for he has turned back from following Me and has not carried out My commands.” 1 Samuel 15:11 Regret – It was a triumph of self-determination, and a tragedy of spiritual disintegration. The man who would be king decided that his interpretation of God’s command was good…
“Vengeance and retribution belong to Me; in due time their foot will slip; for the day of their calamity is near; and the things prepared are hurrying for them.” Deuteronomy 32:35 In Due Time – God will avenge. Great! When? “In due time.” So, what time is that? Coming to terms with the way God…
I will bear the indignation of the Lord because I have sinned against Him, until He pleads my case and executes justice for me. He will bring me out to the light, and I will see His righteousness. Micah 7:9 Will Bring Me Out – There is nothing more destructive than secrets. In fact, you…
