Fisherman: a Popular Occupation The sons of Zebedee, along with their father, owned a fishing business that employed other fishermen (Matthew 4:18–22). Thomas, Nathaniel, and Philip may have chosen fisherman as their occupation, for they were among those out in the boats when Jesus appeared on the shore after his resurrection (John 21:2–8). Perhaps, to…
Biblical numerology is the study of how numbers in Scripture sometimes carry meaning or significance beyond their numerical value. It can be a slippery endeavor. Sometimes it’s clear that a number carries underlying significance, and one is able with relative ease to determine what that is. Think, seven. Other times, however, a number’s significance is…
I have often heard someone say, “I think I am a good person,” or variations thereof: “They are a good person,” or “There are many good people in this world.” Often, this sentiment is paired with the notion that being good is all one needs to secure a place in heaven. This thinking is attractive…
In Matthew 5:7, Christ said that it is the merciful who shall obtain mercy. James 2:13 states the same truth: For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment. The spirit of this beatitude and the passage in James is seen in the Parable of the Unforgiving…
The expression “My truth” is a point of view. It is an assertion rejecting reality. It is a means of trying to have things our own way. “My truth” is an offspring of humanism. It is a declaration that our observation is the only thing that matters. It closes the door to further discussion and…
Everybody likes to be encouraged. The feelings that come from being encouraged can often last a lifetime. It is not uncommon for people who have lived a good long life to happily remember back to an encourager that they knew when they were a child. Encouragement makes an impact. It is also looked on very…
One sure way to offend the Creator is to start creating laws for Him. Jesus said in Matthew 15:8-9, “These people draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.” Traditions…
What is the most precious thing you “own”? I put the word “own” in quotes because this is something you have total control over. It must be something you have earned. It must be something that is only yours. It must be your most precious possession. There are very few things in this world that…
There is Power in the Blood. How many times have we sung that song? For me, it has been numerous. How often do you think about the words of that song and what they mean in your life? What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with…
One of the unfortunate consequences of a splintered and divided Christendom is the general disagreement about the purpose of the church. Some want church to be a Spirit-fueled rock concert. Others want church to be a group therapy session where hurts and sorrows are shared and feelings affirmed. Still others see the church as a…