Ephesians 4:11-13 is held dear by many pastors and church leaders. In fact, it’s often read at ordinations. But it is of significance to all Christians, not just leaders. Let me share it with you, and then I’ll explain why. “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to … Continue reading Growth with depth
Podcast
Oh ye of little strength
In the book of Revelation Jesus gives a series of warnings to churches. When Jesus warns you, you had better take notice! Then he comes to the church in Philadelphia. (This would have been located in modern-day Turkey, not Pennsylvania). His tone changes. Here is what Jesus says: “I know that you have little strength, … Continue reading Oh ye of little strength
Speaking the truth in love
One of the most famous verses in Ephesians is chapter 4 verse 15: “speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” The famous part is right at the start: speak the truth in love. My guess is that … Continue reading Speaking the truth in love
All your sins listed on your back? Fear not.
In some jurisdictions they make convicts wear neon vests while out in the world doing community service. The neon vests are partly for safety, but they serve another purpose as well. Some say something like ‘Community Rehabilitation Program’ on the back. It’s to make the public aware that they are prisoners. I once heard of … Continue reading All your sins listed on your back? Fear not.
The organic unity of Scripture
Proverbs 30:5: “Every word of God is flawless…” The Bible is God’s word to us. That statement is true. It is also under constant attack. I tend to read books, listen to podcasts, and talk to people about biblical interpretation and authority. I want to be well-informed and well-equipped. Over time, you start to notice … Continue reading The organic unity of Scripture
And when I run, I feel his pleasure
“whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God…” (1 Corinthians 10:31) In the movie Chariots of Fire Eric Liddell is a fast runner. He wants to honour God as a missionary, but he also wants to run. There's a scene where he explains to his sister that he will go to China … Continue reading And when I run, I feel his pleasure
Not just for official religious people
There are different lists of “spiritual gifts” in the New Testament. 1 Corinthians 12:7 says: “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” Each Christian has at least one gift. These are given to God’s people to benefit “the common good.” But hold on a minute. What is … Continue reading Not just for official religious people
Do not be conformed to the world
One of the most well-known verses from the book of Romans is chapter 12, verse 2: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” After teaching about … Continue reading Do not be conformed to the world
Both conformity and uniqueness
Within Christianity there is an emphasis on being “like Jesus.” Among other places, this idea is rooted in verses like 1 John 2:6: “Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.” Just look at the word “Christian” itself. We are to be “of Christ” or like little Christs. There is a sameness … Continue reading Both conformity and uniqueness
Holy Spirit, I cooperate with you
“Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts…” (Galatians 4:6). Barry Cooper provides a helpful illustration when thinking about the Holy Spirit’s work in the life of a Christian. “Imagine you want every room in your home painted white. And imagine that you already have a painter standing … Continue reading Holy Spirit, I cooperate with you
