“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope” (Romans 15:4). We’re been talking about responding to challenges to your faith. We’ve all most likely had them. I often say, “The more you … Continue reading Knowing your own story
apologetics
Defend your faith by knowing your faith
“I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people” (Jude 3). In yesterday’s devotional I highlighted how the landscape is changing in this country and others. Fewer people are identifying with the Christian faith. Granted, when someone ticks a box that … Continue reading Defend your faith by knowing your faith
It’s not a matter of if doubts come, but when
“In today’s skeptical culture, it’s not a matter of if doubts come, but when they come.”* That’s a statement by Alisa Childers and Tim Barnett in their new book, “The Deconstruction of Christianity.” Wow, that title seems pretty ominous. What’s it all about? There’s a trend today called “deconstruction.” It’s particularly prevalent online; therefore, young … Continue reading It’s not a matter of if doubts come, but when
Casual and casualty sound so much the same
“Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position” (2 Peter 3:17) It’s no coincidence that casual and casualty sound so much the same. Let me explain what I’m getting at. Casual … Continue reading Casual and casualty sound so much the same
Too honest not to tell the truth
This week we’re talking about having confidence in the resurrection. More specifically, we’re talking about how to defend against conspiracy theories that say it never really happened. When we understand these—and know how to defend against them—we grow in confidence. A modern popular theory is that the early church must have made up resurrection stories … Continue reading Too honest not to tell the truth
There exists such overwhelming evidence
This week’s devotionals have been focusing on the resurrection. It is foundational to our faith. Yet people continue to come up with conspiracy theories which try to deny it. When we understand these—and know how to defend against them—we grow in confidence. One conspiracy theory is that Jesus’ dead body was simply stolen. But that … Continue reading There exists such overwhelming evidence
Out of the cross
The physical resurrection of Jesus is foundational to our faith. Without it, Paul says your faith is “futile” (1 Corinthians 15:17). It is of “first importance” (verse 3). Jesus predicted it. It is one of the reasons he now reigns as Lord. But some people challenge the idea. They say that Jesus never really died. … Continue reading Out of the cross
Putting some sand on the bridge
Indiana Jones was played by Harrison Ford. There’s a scene in one of the movies where he had to get across a huge gorge, but couldn’t jump that far. His map indicated that he could walk across, but he couldn’t see a bridge. He was in a hurry because people were chasing him and he … Continue reading Putting some sand on the bridge
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
Confidence not arrogance
Paul was known for speaking confidently and boldly about God, even in the face of violent opposition. He faced riots in Thessalonica (see Acts 17:1-10) and beatings and unjust imprisonment in Philippi (see Acts 16:16-24). Nevertheless, he said: “we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts” (1 Thessalonians 2:4, … Continue reading Confidence not arrogance
