Hebrews 2:11 says that “Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters.” I’m blown away by that. Jesus calls his followers brothers and sisters. Siblings. What’s more is that he is “not ashamed” to do so. Think of all the times we have gone against God’s teachings. Think about the wayward thoughts, decisions, … Continue reading A firm (not flimsy) identity no matter what
Jesus Christ
3 suggestions to help with temptation
“Because [Jesus] himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.” So says Hebrews 2:18. But how? How is he able to help those who are being tempted? Let me make three suggestions. First, talk to God about it—honestly. Think of your most painful or frequent temptations. We … Continue reading 3 suggestions to help with temptation
Single-minded fidelity
Hebrews 1:5 says: “For to which of the angels did God ever say, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father”? It’s a rhetorical question. The answer is ‘None.’ Jesus is greater than angels. Apparently some people had been doubting Jesus. Since they were still seeking the wisdom, strength and blessing of God, … Continue reading Single-minded fidelity
Sustained by his powerful word
Bible scholar Luke Timothy Johnson says the most important question we need to answer is whether or not Jesus is alive. Not only do we believe in the Jesus of history, but in the Jesus who was raised and continues to be alive—reigning and ruling at God’s right hand. See Hebrews 1:3: “The Son [i.e. … Continue reading Sustained by his powerful word
Looking for something other than Jesus?
Hebrews 1 begins like this: “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe” (verses 1-2). Wow, what … Continue reading Looking for something other than Jesus?
Destination victory
This is a word to the weary. Or to those who are battle-worn, either a little or a lot: When Jesus is your path, your destination is always victory. We are called to a certain way of life. We could also call it a path, or a road. It’s not a physical road, but a … Continue reading Destination victory
The awesomeness of his uniqueness
Jesus is different. And if you belong to him, you’ll most likely be considered different or strange as well. So let’s buttress ourselves and take a closer look at the awesomeness of his uniqueness. First, Jesus is God-with-us. He is the very fullness of God in human form (Colossians 2:9). ‘Do you mean to say … Continue reading The awesomeness of his uniqueness
The narrow gate
Life contains a baffling number of choices. But Jesus said: “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it” (Matthew 7:13-14). This is the word of … Continue reading The narrow gate
Sundaes, waitresses, and Jesus
A young boy went into a diner. The waitress asked for his order. “How much for a sundae?”, he asked. “Four dollars.” The boy searched through his change and started putting coins on the counter, tallying up his total as he went along. The waitress was very busy. She rolled her eyes but didn’t say … Continue reading Sundaes, waitresses, and Jesus
The best thing first
What unites us as God’s church? I think it’s a productive thing to think about—not only for my or your local church, but for the church as it stretches all over the globe. Is it a certain political cause? What about a social justice issue? What about events which are designed to have people smiling … Continue reading The best thing first
