Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1John 5 (The Conclusion)

Chapter 5 concludes the Apostle’s letter to his family in Christ with encouragement that God-birthed faith in Jesus, the Son of God, overcomes all evil. It is this faith that is the victory because it culminates in eternal life with Father God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, and every believer that ever lived. With such an affirming letter about eternal life andContinue reading “Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1John 5 (The Conclusion)”

Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1John 4 (Against False Teaching)

There is an idiom that goes like this: “unable to see the forest for the trees”. In chapter 1 John 4, the Apostle John gives direction to see through a forest of various trees (so to speak) by simply looking up to the Source of life and love. Are you trying to sort out what’sContinue reading “Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1John 4 (Against False Teaching)”

Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1John 3

How often have people told you not to be concerned with your sin, or perhaps provided comfort by reminding you that a particular desire, behaviour, attitude or reaction is completely natural? Jesus came to deliver us from the penalty of sin. He also came to set us free from slavery to sin. So, what weContinue reading “Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1John 3”

Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1John 2:25-29

How many religious organizations exist? How many Christian denominations exist? Is there only one denomination that has saving faith? Those who are deceived do not know they are. Hmmm. Let’s change the questions. What is the basis of my beliefs and how can I be assured that I am not deceived? How do I knowContinue reading “Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1John 2:25-29”

Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1John 1:5-10 (10 min)

What is it about us that wants to hide or diminish our faults? Have you ever considered that when we do so, we are lying to God and deceiving ourselves? There may be momentary comfort in cloaking your sin, but it is a sign of discord from God. Pride, deceit, fear and selfishness are part ofContinue reading “Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1John 1:5-10 (10 min)”

Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1John 1:1-5 (10 min)

People want to improve themselves and their circumstances. Ever since the Garden of Eden, humanity has grasped for more illumination. Jesus warned people saying, “… take heed that the light which is in you is not darkness.” (Luke 11:35) Clearly, the Lord indicated there is a luminousness that is good and another that is evil.Continue reading “Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1John 1:1-5 (10 min)”

Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1st John Overview (7 min)

Some things remain the same despite the generation, culture, language, and era.  Imagine finding an ancient, affirming, instructional warning letter written by someone who loves the recipients, and the letter sounds like it applies to you and some of your friends.  What do you do with it?  Do you discuss it with others?  Do you seriously consider the warnings?  DoContinue reading “Taking Advice from the Beloved Disciple – 1st John Overview (7 min)”

Humility in God’s Election (Romans 9)

It seems as though much of the world is in distress due to conflicts between and within nations, governments, social frameworks, faith groups, and families. There are many converging issues while approaching a dimly seen pinnacle from a human temporal perspective.  Dissatisfaction is rampant because so many people’s reasonable expectations are confronted by opposing strategies, policies,Continue reading “Humility in God’s Election (Romans 9)”

Eternally Loved & Earnesly Longing – Romans 8, Part 3

Have you ever noticed that some of the strongest warnings and exhortations in the Bible are to those who toy with the idea of compromise with other worldviews or systems? There is a central theme throughout Scripture that anyone who desires God’s eternal life, love, and promises must be willing to be devoted to God despiteContinue reading “Eternally Loved & Earnesly Longing – Romans 8, Part 3”

No Condemnation or Separation – Romans 8, Part 2

My Father started me on a voyage with siblings through various terrains that I was never to make my home. I was naive when I started. I was just so excited to be here; travelling; learning; and with so much to do! For a time, I forgot who He was and why I was even here! At first,Continue reading “No Condemnation or Separation – Romans 8, Part 2”