From what I’ve seen, many people have a “Bible within a Bible,” meaning that they selectively prioritize certain passages over others. It’s a temptation for all of us, myself included. What I’ve discovered is that you can learn a lot about where you need to grow by being honest about what passages you tend to … Continue reading The Jesus of Scripture, or of the mirror?
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Make me receptive soil
In the parable of the sower, Jesus describes a sower who sows some seed—which, he says, is a metaphor for the word of God. Ideally, the seed lands on receptive soil. Luke 8:15 spells it out: “the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain … Continue reading Make me receptive soil
Photo-shopped Jesus?
When a picture has been “photo shopped” that means it has been manipulated. Some sort of program has been used to change the image. Are there times when we are tempted to photo shop Jesus? I’m not referring to physical pictures. I’m referring to the parts of Jesus we like, and the parts we would … Continue reading Photo-shopped Jesus?
Partialness or fullness?
In Colossians 1:25 Paul says that God has given him a specific mission: “to present to you the word of God in its fullness…” This important theme comes up elsewhere too. When speaking to the elders of Ephesus he said: “For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God” (Acts … Continue reading Partialness or fullness?
They fear concentration
John Climacus wrote a book in the early 7th century that became very influential among Christians. It was called The Ladder of Divine Ascent. Among other things it was a book about becoming more like Jesus. In it he wrote: "Demons fear concentration as thieves fear dogs."* He put a high value on concentration. He was … Continue reading They fear concentration
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
Habits are priorities with a watch
Hello! After a short break, The Up Devotional is back to your email inboxes, social media feeds, and podcast platforms five mornings a week. Here we are in 2024. Wow, that sounds futuristic. But it’s the new now. The start of another twelve-month cycle gets you thinking about priorities. If you have them (and you … Continue reading Habits are priorities with a watch
Bread won’t help you if you don’t eat it
Someone was telling me about a survival show on T.V. A guy was dropped way out in the forest. He had to make his own shelter and catch his own food. But he had to remain healthy. Otherwise he would be medically evacuated and taken to safety. He made a shelter. He even caught a … Continue reading Bread won’t help you if you don’t eat it
God continues to speak to his people
One of the most popular movies of all time is The Sound of Music. Toward the end there is a dramatic scene where the von Trapp family is trying to flee from danger. They are being pursued by the sinister authorities. Maria von Trapp is played by Julie Andrews. She speaks briefly with the Reverend … Continue reading God continues to speak to his people
Jesus’ disciples, Scripture’s pupils
This week I’m leading a Bible story centre at our church’s Vacation Bible Camp. It’s always a lot of energy, music and laughter! I consider it a profound and meaningful privilege to teach the Bible. Within its Spirit-inspired pages, people of all ages start to know more about God, his promises, and his loving plans … Continue reading Jesus’ disciples, Scripture’s pupils
