It seems ironic that the Pharisees wanted Jesus to perform a sign from heaven right after he miraculously fed four thousand people. They didn't want a miracle—they knew Jesus was capable of those—but a sign from heaven, or a sign from God, testifying to Jesus' identity. They didn't realize that his presence was a sign from heaven, for he had stepped out of glory to minister to humankind. (3 Minutes/700 Words)
Read moreThe Struggle for Obedience, Part 3: Know Who He Is (Mark 6:48-51)
This whole movement hints that this is a moment where the disciples are interacting with the divine. How do we know this passage is meant to show us Jesus is God?
Read moreBelieve the Right Things About Jesus (Mark 3:20-35)
Mark sets up our next scene by pointing out two separate groups, Jesus' family and the scribes. But before looking at each group and their response to Christ, Mark is clear to point out why both of them reacted to Jesus at this time. The crowds. (14 Minutes/3600 Words)
Read moreDealing With Chaotic Times (Mark 3:7-19)
Many parts of this week’s passage are familiar to us. Jesus is presented as being famous far and wide. People from everywhere all come to see Jesus. We know why they are there—they want to see his miraculous power. Mark makes this clear: they came to him only after they heard all that he was doing. (12 Minute/3000 Words)
Read moreSeeing God Correctly: God Offers Restoration (Mark 3:1-6)
Many of us sense personal brokenness within. We are embarrassed by bad habits, unreasonable emotions, broken relationships, and personal failures. We sense that we are not everything we are supposed to be or could have been, but what can we do about it? (4 Minutes/1000 Words)
Read moreA Healthy Heart Before God - A Basic Description of the Uncondemned Heart (1 John 3:23-24)
John has been helping us learn to deal with our hearts when they condemn us (3:19-20). He has shown us what happens when God sets our hearts free of condemnation (3:21-22). Now John will describe the uncondemned life and heart. (4 Minutes/1100 Words)
Read moreExile Work -- 1 Peter 2:18-25 -- The Grace of Exile #13
Exile Work -- 1 Peter 2:18-25 -- The Grace of Exile #13
Read moreHow To Love God's People - Part 3 (1 John 3:17-18)
Today, in part three, we will look at the last two lessons, followed by some applications of the entire passage of 1 John 3:11-18. This passage gives us practical help on how to demonstrate Christian love. (4 Minutes/1000 Words)
Read moreHow To Love God's People -- Part 1 (1 John 3:11-12)
In our last few studies of 1 John, we celebrated the glorious truth that God loves us so much that He decided to call all believers His children. In this next passage, 1 John 3:11-18, we have a much more difficult truth to digest. It's this: If God has made us into His spiritual family, we must love our spiritual siblings. Last week, you may have celebrated God's love for you, but you must struggle to show your love for others. This passage gives us practical help on how to demonstrate Christian love. (6 Minutes/1700 Words)
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