Open the Bible: Recent Episodes
Colin Smith
Build a biblical foundation for your life through the teaching of Colin Smith at www.OpentheBible.org. You’ll find a study resource that will give you an overview of the whole Bible story from Genesis to Revelation. Each session includes a Scripture passage, a teaching in audio or text format, and 5 discussion questions.
The early church was a ragtag group of disciples with little strength…until the Holy Spirit descended upon them in power!
Jesus Christ came to fulfill all of the promises that were delivered by the Old Testament Prophets. In Him, every promise is “Yes” and “Amen.”
Jesus Christ came to give us abundant life in the Spirit, to restore to us the life that was lost in Adam.
The Bible presents us with the truth about Jesus Christ and his salvation. Will you choose to trust Him, or will you reject Him?
The Holy Spirit not only supports believers by being with us and strengthening us. He also lives inside of every Christian and gives life to our souls.
We receive salvation by faith in Jesus Christ alone, but the faith we need to believe is itself a gift from God given by the Holy Spirit. He applies salvation to us.
If Jesus were not God, He would not be able to tell His disciples, “If you have seen me you have seen the Father.”
Part of the glory of Christ is that He has life in Himself which the Father granted to Him.
What is the nature and relationship between the first and second persons of the Trinity?
To know the Father’s love means to obey Him, for only those who obey are able to say that they recognize His authority over their lives and experience His loving care for them.
There are very important things to know about God’s Nature. Three of those things are: There is one God, He exists in three persons, and each person in the Trinity is truly God.
The word "baptize" means to dip or drench. So the Christian life is all about being drenched in the Father, plunged into the Son, and soaked in the Spirit.
Though we are not what we once were before we knew Christ, we are also not yet what we will be when we see Him face to face. In that day, we will be perfected!
Jesus finished His work of salvation on the cross. But now He continues to work making intercession for His people.
Kingdoms rise and kingdoms fall, but God’s kingdom and God’s throne shall stand forever!
Sometimes men think they are going to do something great for God, but God has other plans. When that happens, what is your attitude? If it is bad, were you doing it for God or for yourself?
In the Bible we see that human kings fail all the time. But Jesus is a king you can put your trust in because He always rules with truth, righteousness, and grace.
God Himself is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, but His people desired another king. The result was not pleasing to God and it was disastrous for Israel.
The judges of Israel delivered the people time and again from wicked foreign rulers. But Christ is a better deliverer because He saves us from sin and the evil one.
Idolatry is powerfully attractive, but at the same time it is deeply offensive to God. How should we treat the idols of our hearts?
During the time of the judges in Israel, the people had lost the knowledge of God and His wondrous works. But thankfully, that knowledge would eventually be restored.
The Gospel is free, but there is a cost to follow Jesus. We are called to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him.
It's easy for us to think that our comfort is the thing that matters most. But God has not called us to a life of convenience; Christ died for us that we should no longer live for ourselves, but go out and do His will.
God calls His people to be brave and to trust Him. When we don’t, the result is never good.
One of the greatest problems plaguing mankind is the guilt of our sin. But in Christ, our guilt is removed and our souls are cleansed.
On the Day of Atonement, the “scapegoat” carried the sins of the people on itself. Christ was a scapegoat for us as well.
If you find yourself in a court of law, you'll need an attorney to speak on your behalf. In the Old Testament, the priests represented the people. But if you come to Jesus in faith, He is your High Priest and He intercedes for you.
The stones that built the temple in Jerusalem point to believers who are called living stones. And God is building His people up for an eternal inheritance.
How we respond when someone calls us out for our sin reveals whether or not our heart is in the right place with God.
In former times, God spoke in a variety of ways and through many different means, but once Jesus came, God spoke to us through His Son. And Jesus has given us everything we need.
The authors of Scripture did not make things up as they went. Rather, they were carried along by the Spirit to write the Bible. That fact differentiates the Scriptures from every other book.
The world tells us to find our self-esteem, but as Christians, we find our worth in Christ and what He has done. We can lift our heads with Christ-esteem!
Kingdoms rise and kingdoms fall, but God’s kingdom and God’s throne shall stand forever!
Sometimes men think they are going to do something great for God, but God has other plans. When that happens, what is your attitude? If it is bad, were you doing it for God or for yourself?
In the Bible we see that human kings fail all the time. But Jesus is a king you can put your trust in because He always rules with truth, righteousness, and grace.
God Himself is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, but His people desired another king. The result was not pleasing to God and it was disastrous for Israel.
The judges of Israel delivered the people time and again from wicked foreign rulers. But Christ is a better deliverer because He saves us from sin and the evil one.
Idolatry is powerfully attractive, but at the same time it is deeply offensive to God. How should we treat the idols of our hearts?
During the time of the judges in Israel, the people had lost the knowledge of God and His wondrous works. But thankfully, that knowledge would eventually be restored.
The Gospel is free, but there is a cost to follow Jesus. We are called to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him.
We cannot separate Christ’s Lordship from His salvation of us. It is a fundamental misunderstanding of the gospel to think that you can receive what Jesus offers and at the same time resist what He commands.
The worst spiritual position of all is to be at peace with yourself when your sins are not yet forgiven. Pastor Colin talks about the story of Joseph’s brothers and how God gets their attention to deal with forgotten sins.
The multiple theophanies that occurred in the Old Testament were pointing forward to a time when the Lord himself would come in human flesh.
God took the initiative in sending Christ to be born of the virgin Mary. He did not wait for a Deliverer to arise from us, He came to us in the person of Jesus.
How do you interact with a person who’s hostile to the gospel? Pastor Colin looks at three question-and-answer sessions with Jesus, to learn how he handles these conversations.
You feel that you haven’t been very fruitful for Christ. You feel like a dead tree. But Pastor Colin talks about why this doesn’t have to be the end of your story.
What kind of fruit is Jesus looking for in the church today? He’s not impressed with lots of activity. Pastor Colin talks about what impresses Him.
The worst spiritual position of all is to be at peace with yourself when your sins are not yet forgiven. Pastor Colin talks about the story of Joseph’s brothers and how God gets their attention to deal with forgotten sins.
Jesus came, not to be served, but to serve. That means He didn’t come into the world to get you to do something for Him. Pastor Colin talks about what He came to do for you.
Why did Jesus Christ come into the world? Some people think it was to condemn us, others feel that it was to recruit workers. Many people aren’t really sure why He came. Pastor Colin talks about the real reason.
You say you’ve done everything God’s asked of you. Have you left anything out? Pastor Colin talks about the challenge that Jesus has for you.
What does it mean when you say, I’m a good person. How do you measure goodness? Pastor Colin talks about how God measures it.
Something another Christian has said or done has hindered your faith. Maybe it was a family member, a friend, or even a pastor. Pastor Colin talks about how Jesus removes the barriers that keep us from God’s blessing.
What do you do when you seem to have more questions about God than answers?Pastor Colin talks about Joseph’s time in prison and God’s greater purpose for his life.
You’ve made some relational mistakes, and you’re afraid you’ll mess it up again. Pastor Colin talks about how you can move beyond the past.
People sometimes say, You must have a sick mind to talk about hell. Are we willing to apply that same conclusion to Jesus? Pastor Colin explains why we’d need to.
You have a burning desire for greatness, a hunger to make your life count. That’s great. You should. Jesus told His disciples the secret to pursuing true greatness. Pastor Colin talks about Jesus’ surprising words.
You call yourself a Christian, but denying yourself and taking up your cross is not very high on your agenda. Pastor Colin talks about what you must see before you’ll be able and willing to do this.
You’re probably familiar with this advertising formula: maximize the benefits, minimize the risks, and put all the costs in fine print. Pastor Colin talks about why Jesus uses the fine print of Christianity in his headlines.
What do you do when you seem to have more questions about God than answers?Pastor Colin talks about Joseph’s time in prison and God’s greater purpose for his life.
We expect resistance from Jesus’ enemies, but not from His friends. Pastor Colin talks about why Christians sometimes resist Jesus.
Spiritual understanding is a gift from God that comes gradually and progressively. That means it’s important not to give up too early. Pastor Colin talks about about the opportunity that we may be missing.
What is the greatest challenge Christians face in living a holy life? Jesus said, Nothing outside a man can make him unclean. He is telling us that the greatest challenge to a holy life is not Hollywood or TV or the internet. Pastor Colin talks about what this means for us.
What happens when a religious person lets go of the commands of God? Or when a Christian measures their life against God’s commands? Pastor Colin talks about the surprising outcome.
What does Jesus do with disciples who mess up a lot? Does He throw up His hands and say, They’re hopeless! Pastor Colin talks about the extent of Jesus’ patience with us.
If you’re a Christian, you don’t need to worry about interpreting your dreams.Pastor Colin explains how God has communicated, with absolute clarity, everything he wants you to know.
Did you know that it’s possible for your heart to become hard, even if you’re a follower of Jesus? Pastor Colin talks about how this can happen, and what Jesus does about it.
Fear is the natural response of human beings in the presence of God. Discover why the fear of the Lord is not a fear that cripples us.
What scares you? Maybe you would say, “Nothing.” Pastor Colin talks about one thing that would certainly scare all of us. Find out what it is.
Jesus gave us His assessment of what goes on in the hearts of people who go to church. It’s Christ’s report on what is going on inside the hearts of those who hear His Word. Find out what it reveals.
Jesus taught us to pray, Your kingdom come, but how will the kingdom of God come, in a world that rejects the King? Pastor Colin talks about a parable Jesus told to answer this very question. Find out what it teaches us.
If you’re a Christian, you don’t need to worry about interpreting your dreams.Pastor Colin explains how God has communicated, with absolute clarity, everything he wants you to know.
During the time of the judges in Israel, the people had lost the knowledge of God and His wondrous works. But thankfully, that knowledge would eventually be restored.
The Gospel is free, but there is a cost to follow Jesus. We are called to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him.
It's easy for us to think that our comfort is the thing that matters most. But God has not called us to a life of convenience; Christ died for us that we should no longer live for ourselves, but go out and do His will.
Many people, in and outside the church, believe in God and feel that they should do what’s right. But they haven’t yet grasped the gospel. Pastor Colin explains the good news of Jesus Christ.
The Bible tells us that Jesus is the Son of God, and Christians of just about every stripe would affirm this truth. But what does Son of God actually mean?
On the Day of Atonement, the scapegoat carried the sins of the people on itself. Christ was a scapegoat for us as well.
If you find yourself in a court of law, you'll need an attorney to speak on your behalf. In the Old Testament, the priests represented the people. But if you come to Jesus in faith, He is your High Priest and He interceeds for you.
The sacrifices of the Old Testament were types and shadows of a much greater sacrifice which was to come. The sacrifice of Christ Himself.
Feeling sorry isn’t enough to atone for sin. What is needed is a payment that only Christ can provide.
The purpose of God’s law was not to show us how we may climb to heaven. Rather, it is the pattern that God set forth that we may know what righteousness looks like.
The 10 Commandments show us God’s holy and righteous standard for our lives. To follow them is to live a godly life.
The Old Testament sacrificial system pointed forward to the time when the ultimate sacrifice would be made by Jesus Christ.
We must believe in God as He is, and not as we wish Him to be. To mold Him into our image is insulting to Him.
Through faith, we enjoy the credit of Christ’s righteousness to our account. That is the basis of our standing before God.
The account of Noah in the Bible teaches us to be ready. Christ will return someday. Will you be ready when He does?
The devil uses many traps to ensnare people, but one of his greatest traps is the temptation to distrust and disbelieve God’s Word.
We are both created by God and sustained by God. This truth both humbles and dignifies us.
Abraham and the patriarchs in the Bible were saved in the same way that we are, by faith in the Lord Jesus. Abraham believed God, and it was counted as righteousness.
Doesn’t faith work automatically? Pastor Colin talks about why it needs to be intentionally engaged.
We all know that our faith will get tested, but why does God test it? Pastor Colin talks about 3 good purposes God has in the testing.
The world wants to have the blessing of God, but it cannot have it. Pastor Colin talks about how God’s blessing comes to us.
The Apostles said to Jesus, Increase our faith! Pastor Colin is going to walk us through this story.
The Apostles said to Jesus, Increase our faith! Pastor Colin talks about 4 reasons we too need to ask Jesus to increase our faith.
You have been a believer for some time, perhaps for many years. But then some crisis erupts in your life, and you say, Lord, increase my faith! Pastor Colin talks about 5 ways to grow in faith.
All of us have times when we feel our faith is small. But no believer should be content with little faith. Pastor Colin talks about 5 reasons to grow in faith and 5 strategies for growing in faith.
See the demands of God’s justice, and it will open your eyes to His love. Pastor Colin talks about why this is true.
It is quite possible to being doing your heavenly Father’s work without actually sharing your heavenly Father’s heart. Pastor Colin talks about the importance of not only getting involved in a church’ but getting right with God.’
God is love and He knows how to hate. Pastor Colin talks about why these two things must both be true of Him.
God often takes us through the darkness. Pastor Colin talks about His purpose in our waiting.
You’re surrounded by trouble and you don’t know where God is. You can’t tell what He’s doing. Pastor Colin talks about why.
What really matters to God? Pastor Colin talks about why it’s not your religious practice.
The righteousness of Christ is credited to our account by faith alone. We cannot earn it, because it was earned by Jesus himself, and is given to us freely.
Justification is a legal term, but what does it mean and how does it relate to Christians?
The world wants to have the blessing of God, but it cannot have it.Pastor Colin talks about how God’s blessing comes to us.
At the Cross of Christ, all of God’s wrath toward sin was poured out upon Jesus. There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ.
In order for love to be genuine, it must hate evil. God's wrath is His settled resolve that evil will not stand.
When God justifies us, he charges our sins to Jesus and He credits the righteousness of Jesus to us. We aren't justified by our performance, rather by faith, the perfect righteousness of Jesus becomes ours.
God could, if he chose, do all things by himself. But in His infinite wisdom, He chooses to work through vessels of clay to accomplish His ends in the world.
When we see Jesus as He really is, the Sovereign Lord of creation changes everything about our lives. There is no part of life that He is not sovereign over.
In the Bible we see God working through people in various ways and at various times. That did not stop when the Bible was complete. The Lord is still working today, and you are a part of it!
It is God’s desire to empower His people to be his witnesses throughout the world. He has done so, and continues to do so.
The early church was a ragtag group of disciples with little strengthuntil the Holy Spirit descended upon them in power!
Jesus Christ came to fulfill all of the promises that were delivered by the Old Testament Prophets. In Him, every promise is Yes and Amen.
Jesus Christ came to give us abundant life in the Spirit, to restore to us the life that was lost in Adam.
Wherever the Word of God is spoken, you will find those who bring an alternate message. Pastor Colin talks about why this message can often seem so attractive.
What does a godly life look like? And what can we expect if we walk in the footsteps of Jesus Christ?Join Pastor Colin as he looks at the story of Joseph in the Old Testament and what we can learn from it.
You can’t see God, or hear God, or touch God. So, how could you ever come to know him? Pastor Colin talks about the difference between speculation and revelation.
You know that God is in control of the good things that happen in life, but what about the bad? Pastor Colin talks about the sovereignty of God and what it means on the darkest days of life.
Disaster comes to both the godly and the ungodly, but where does it come from? Pastor Colin talks about the limits that Christians sometimes place on the sovereignty of God.
To know the Father’s love means to obey Him, for only those who obey are able to say that they recognize His authority over their lives and experience His loving care for them.
There are very important things to know about God’s Nature. Three of those things are: There is one God, He exists in three persons, and each person in the Trinity is truly God.
The word "baptize" means to dip or drench. So the Christian life is all about being drenched in the Father, plunged into the Son, and soaked in the Spirit.
Though we are not what we once were before we knew Christ, we are also not yet what we will be when we see Him face to face. In that day, we will be perfected!
Jesus finished His work of salvation on the cross. But now He continues to work making intercession for His people.
One of our greatest needs is an Advocate with God the Father in Heaven. That is what Jesus is for all who belong to Him.
When the trumpet sounds, the dead in Christ will rise and be changed, in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, and we who trust in Him shall be like Him.
Our bodies matter to God. And He will not allow them to stay in the grave forever. Soon, everyone will rise on Judgment Day.
Because Christ died and rose again, we who are united to Him by faith will also rise from the grave to be in the presence of God.
The cross of Christ is the proof of God’s love toward sinners. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
We are forgiven by Christ’s death on the cross because the punishment for sin fell on Him instead of us. Therefore, at the cross, God’s forgiveness is released toward us.
On the cross, Jesus bore the sins of the world. The cross shows us both the heinousness of sin and the love of God.
Jesus only uses the word church two times in the Bible. What did he mean by it? Pastor Colin talks about one of those two instances.
Jesus only uses the word church two times in the Bible. What did he mean by it? Pastor Colin talks about one of those two instances.
Perhaps a storm has blown up in your life, the wind is against you, and Jesus feels far away. Pastor Colin talks about what it’s like when your faith is being tested.
Being faithful to God does not necessarily mean that we must sacrifice success in this world.
How can you tell if another person has repented? By counting his or her tears? How about the passing of time? Neither of these well-worn paths is very helpful. Pastor Colin helps you discover the genuine marks of true repentance, and how to deepen your own repentance.
In the Bible, there are many examples of bad shepherds of God’s People. But Jesus is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep.
Why do so many people avoid sorrow? Because they think: Life’s too short. What good can come of it? Pastor Colin talks about the value of your sorrow.
The prophet Ezekiel was a man who had many hopes and dreams just like us. But his dreams were shattered. Where do we turn when that happens to us?
Turning over a new leaf won’t change what’s in you. Pastor Colin talks about the role of repentance and faith in the Christian life.
You must own what is in you by nature, in order to change your future. Pastor Colin talks about 6 impulses that are in us by nature.
You feel sorry about what happened. Does that mean you’ve repented? Not necessarily. The Bible talks about godly sorrow, the kind of sorrow that leads to repentance. Pastor Colin talks about what godly sorrow is.
Did you leave the church, expecting to come back at some point, but you never did? Pastor Colin talks about why it matters.
Does it feel like your life with God has gone through a long period of disruption? Pastor Colin talks about how you can make a new beginning.
In our instant culture, this is one of the hardest and most important things to learn. Pastor Colin explains, from the Psalms, how you can learn to wait on the Lord.
When we’re in pain, we look for the comfort of someone else who’s been there. Pastor Colin talks about how you can meet a companion like that.
God’s servants do not serve themselves, but rather Him. They are not called to fame or fortune, but to do their Master’s will.
The holiness of God humbles us in every way. When we come to understand it, even in small measure, it causes us to have humility.
God is holy. It is an essential element of His nature. In order to see God rightly, we must see Him as holy.
What kind of life do you have to live, to be able to say at the end of it, I have finished my work. I have kept the faith. Join Pastor Colin as he talks about God’s desire for you to live this kind of life.
If God is really loving, he would never send anyone to hell.’ That may be comforting, but is it true? Not according to the Bible. Join Pastor Colin as he talks about why the wicked will never enter God’s rest.
Some people say, There’s no such thing as good’ or evil,’ only what’s right or wrong for you. Join Pastor Colin as we discover what God says is wicked,’ regardless of your culture, your language, or your situation.
One of the greatest problems with the natural man is that his heart is like a stone toward God. But, thankfully, Jesus is able to take out our hearts of stone and give us hearts of flesh through the Holy Spirit!
What does it mean to rest? Is it going to sleep? Is it taking a vacation or watching a movie? Pastor Colin talks about God’s rest.
King Josiah sought the LORD from a young age. He is an example for us and for our children.
Where should we start when we want to evangelize someone? Jesus began with the knowledge of God.
There are many attributes of God which are revealed to us in the Bible. The Bible says God is love but it does not say God is anger. Anger does not come naturally to Him. It must be provoked.
Elijah's prayer brought the fire of God onto the sacrifice and not on the people. This points to the cross where God's judgment was poured out on Jesus, who became the ultimate sacrifice for us.
The claim of the Bible is that God’s Word is true. We can stand on that claim because Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
The kingdom of Heaven will not be like the earthly tabernacle where the presence of God came and went; instead it will be a place where God and men are together forever.
In the Old Testament, the tabernacle, and then later the temple, was where God met with men. But now, that meeting place is a Personthe Lord Jesus Christ.
The stones that built the temple in Jerusalem point to believers who are called living stones. And God is building His people up for an eternal inheritance.
How we respond when someone calls us out for our sin reveals whether or not our heart is in the right place with God.
In former times, God spoke in a variety of ways and through many different means, but once Jesus came, God spoke to us through His Son. And Jesus has given us everything we need.
The authors of Scripture did not make things up as they went. Rather, they were carried along by the Spirit to write the Bible. That fact differentiates the Scriptures from every other book.
The world tells us to find our self-esteem, but as Christians, we find our worth in Christ and what He has done. We can lift our heads with Christ-esteem!
Kingdoms rise and kingdoms fall, but God’s kingdom and God’s throne shall stand forever!
Sometimes men think they are going to do something great for God, but God has other plans. When that happens, what is your attitude? If it is bad, were you doing it for God or for yourself?
In the Bible we see that human kings fail all the time. But Jesus is a king you can put your trust in because He always rules with truth, righteousness, and grace.
God Himself is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, but His people desired another king. The result was not pleasing to God and it was disastrous for Israel.
The judges of Israel delivered the people time and again from wicked foreign rulers. But Christ is a better deliverer because He saves us from sin and the evil one.
Idolatry is powerfully attractive, but at the same time it is deeply offensive to God. How should we treat the idols of our hearts?
During the time of the judges in Israel, the people had lost the knowledge of God and His wondrous works. But thankfully, that knowledge would eventually be restored.
The Gospel is free, but there is a cost to follow Jesus. We are called to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him.
It's easy for us to think that our comfort is the thing that matters most. But God has not called us to a life of convenience; Christ died for us that we should no longer live for ourselves, but go out and do His will.
God calls His people to be brave and to trust Him. When we don’t, the result is never good.
In heaven, the Bible says, the former things will not be remembered.’ This doesn’t mean you won’t have any memories of this life. Pastor Colin talks about what it does mean.
On the Day of Atonement, the scapegoat carried the sins of the people on itself. Christ was a scapegoat for us as well.
If you find yourself in a court of law, you'll need an attorney to speak on your behalf. In the Old Testament, the priests represented the people. But if you come to Jesus in faith, He is your High Priest and He interceeds for you.
The sacrifices of the Old Testament were types and shadows of a much greater sacrifice which was to come. The sacrifice of Christ Himself.
Feeling sorry isn’t enough to atone for sin. What is needed is a payment that only Christ can provide.
You’ve become a Christian so why do you still struggle with so many sins and temptations? Aren’t we supposed to be done with that struggle? Is there something wrong with your faith? Pastor Colin explains that this is a normal part of the Christian life.
Having difficulty getting your prayer life off the ground? Perhaps you feel unworthy or worn out or you’re struggling with the same old sins Pastor Colin talks about where to start.
Jesus taught his disciples to pray. That means whatever stage you are at in the Christian life, prayer is something that you can learn. Pastor Colin talks about how you can learn to pray.
One of the laws God gave to Israel, the Jubilee, was never kept in all of Israel’s history, nor could it be kept today. Pastor Colin talks about the reasons why, and what God did about it.
One of the laws that God gave to Israel for protecting the poor, the law of Jubilee, was never put into practice. Pastor Colin talks about why.
Through faith, we enjoy the credit of Christ’s righteousness to our account. That is the basis of our standing before God.
The account of Noah in the Bible teaches us to be ready. Christ will return someday. Will you be ready when He does?
The devil uses many traps to ensnare people, but one of his greatest traps is the temptation to distrust and disbelieve God’s Word.
We are both created by God and sustained by God. This truth both humbles and dignifies us.
Abraham and the patriarchs in the Bible were saved in the same way that we are, by faith in the Lord Jesus. Abraham believed God, and it was counted as righteousness.
History shows us that sin spreads rapidly as people move away from God. Sadly, this is the case even today.
Though Adam and his progeny were cursed because of Adam’s disobedience, Christ took that curse for us in His body on the tree!
Because of the Fall, mankind’s knowledge of evil is more than intellectual, it is sadly experiential.
What are theophanies? Why does God appear in a way that people can see in the Old Testament?
What is the significance of being created by God? Since God created us, He is the titleholder of our lives.
After Adam sinned, work became a burden. But in the Kingdom of God, work will be a complete joy!
How wonderful is it that God thought of you as Christ was dying on the cross? He loves sinners so much, even those who had yet to be born.
God has given us tools to win the war against sin and the devil. God uses the Bible as a mirror and counselors as a source of wisdom to help you find the truth.
Most people think that other people are their main problem, but that isn’t true. We don’t struggle against flesh and blood, but against the evil one.
Do you see the Church as central to the purposes of God in the world? He certainly does, and he will use his Church to accomplish his ends.
God’s purpose is to draw all men to himself, and he is doing just that right now around the world!
Satan always tries to confuse Christians about their position before God. But if you have the Holy Spirit living inside of you, you can be secure and have assurance of salvation.
Man is naturally hostile toward God, but you do not have to stay that way. While we were yet hostile sinners toward God, He loved us and gave himself for us.
If you are a believer in Jesus, you are not helpless against sin. The Holy Spirit lives inside of you and enables you to fight!
Before Christ saved us, we were utterly powerless against the sin that so easily entangles us. But now, we have an entirely new position. In Christ we have strength to fight sin and live for God.
Union with Christ is more than you turning over a new leaf or making a decision to live a better life. It's the life of Jesus Christ flowing into you by the power of the Holy Spirit.
What is the reason for the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ? What significance do these things have for us today?
The death of Jesus actually accomplished something of infinite value for us. Our redemption.
This world is filled with troubles and strife. Jesus knew and experienced all of it. But He has also overcome the evil and trouble of this world, and since we are in Him we can have victory as well!
The righteousness of Christ is credited to our account by faith alone. We cannot earn it, because it was earned by Jesus himself, and is given to us freely.
Justification is a legal term, but what does it mean and how does it relate to Christians?
Our sin is an offense to God. But the God whose holiness we have offended, whose world we have spoiled, and whose wrath we have incurred sent His one and only Son to bear this wrath for us.
At the Cross of Christ, all of God’s wrath toward sin was poured out upon Jesus. There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ.
In order for love to be genuine, it must hate evil. God's wrath is His settled resolve that evil will not stand.
When God justifies us, he charges our sins to Jesus and He credits the righteousness of Jesus to us. We aren't justified by our performance, rather by faith, the perfect righteousness of Jesus becomes ours.
God could, if he chose, do all things by himself. But in His infinite wisdom, He chooses to work through vessels of clay to accomplish His ends in the world.
Though Adam and his progeny were cursed because of Adam’s disobedience, Christ took that curse for us in His body on the tree!
Because of the Fall, mankind’s knowledge of evil is more than intellectual, it is sadly experiential.
What are theophanies? Why does God appear in a way that people can see in the Old Testament?
What is the significance of being created by God? Since God created us, He is the titleholder of our lives.
After Adam sinned, work became a burden. But in the Kingdom of God, work will be a complete joy!
How wonderful is it that God thought of you as Christ was dying on the cross? He loves sinners so much, even those who had yet to be born.
God has given us tools to win the war against sin and the devil. God uses the Bible as a mirror and counselors as a source of wisdom to help you find the truth.
Most people think that other people are their main problem, but that isn’t true. We don’t struggle against flesh and blood, but against the evil one.
Do you see the Church as central to the purposes of God in the world? He certainly does, and he will use his Church to accomplish his ends.
God’s purpose is to draw all men to himself, and he is doing just that right now around the world!
Satan always tries to confuse Christians about their position before God. But if you have the Holy Spirit living inside of you, you can be secure and have assurance of salvation.
Man is naturally hostile toward God, but you do not have to stay that way. While we were yet hostile sinners toward God, He loved us and gave himself for us.
If you are a believer in Jesus, you are not helpless against sin. The Holy Spirit lives inside of you and enables you to fight!
Before Christ saved us, we were utterly powerless against the sin that so easily entangles us. But now, we have an entirely new position. In Christ we have strength to fight sin and live for God.
Union with Christ is more than you turning over a new leaf or making a decision to live a better life. It's the life of Jesus Christ flowing into you by the power of the Holy Spirit.
What is the reason for the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ? What significance do these things have for us today?
The death of Jesus actually accomplished something of infinite value for us. Our redemption.
This world is filled with troubles and strife. Jesus knew and experienced all of it. But He has also overcome the evil and trouble of this world, and since we are in Him we can have victory as well!
The righteousness of Christ is credited to our account by faith alone. We cannot earn it, because it was earned by Jesus himself, and is given to us freely.
Justification is a legal term, but what does it mean and how does it relate to Christians?
Our sin is an offense to God. But the God whose holiness we have offended, whose world we have spoiled, and whose wrath we have incurred sent His one and only Son to bear this wrath for us.
At the Cross of Christ, all of God’s wrath toward sin was poured out upon Jesus. There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ.
In order for love to be genuine, it must hate evil. God's wrath is His settled resolve that evil will not stand.
When God justifies us, he charges our sins to Jesus and He credits the righteousness of Jesus to us. We aren't justified by our performance, rather by faith, the perfect righteousness of Jesus becomes ours.
God could, if he chose, do all things by himself. But in His infinite wisdom, He chooses to work through vessels of clay to accomplish His ends in the world.
When we see Jesus as He really is, the Sovereign Lord of creation changes everything about our lives. There is no part of life that He is not sovereign over.
In the Bible we see God working through people in various ways and at various times. That did not stop when the Bible was complete. The Lord is still working today, and you are a part of it!
It is God’s desire to empower His people to be his witnesses throughout the world. He has done so, and continues to do so.
The early church was a ragtag group of disciples with little strengthuntil the Holy Spirit descended upon them in power!
Jesus Christ came to fulfill all of the promises that were delivered by the Old Testament Prophets. In Him, every promise is Yes and Amen.
Jesus Christ came to give us abundant life in the Spirit, to restore to us the life that was lost in Adam.
The Bible presents us with the truth about Jesus Christ and his salvation. Will you choose to trust Him, or will you reject Him?
The Holy Spirit not only supports believers by being with us and strengthening us. He also lives inside of every Christian and gives life to our souls.
We receive salvation by faith in Jesus Christ alone, but the faith we need to believe is itself a gift from God given by the Holy Spirit. He applies salvation to us.
If Jesus were not God, He would not be able to tell His disciples, If you have seen me you have seen the Father.
Part of the glory of Christ is that He has life in Himself which the Father granted to Him.
What is the nature and relationship between the first and second persons of the Trinity?
To know the Father’s love means to obey Him, for only those who obey are able to say that they recognize His authority over their lives and experience His loving care for them.
There are very important things to know about God’s Nature. Three of those things are: There is one God, He exists in three persons, and each person in the Trinity is truly God.
The word "baptize" means to dip or drench. So the Christian life is all about being drenched in the Father, plunged into the Son, and soaked in the Spirit.
Though we are not what we once were before we knew Christ, we are also not yet what we will be when we see Him face to face. In that day, we will be perfected!
Jesus finished His work of salvation on the cross. But now He continues to work making intercession for His people.
One of our greatest needs is an Advocate with God the Father in Heaven. That is what Jesus is for all who belong to Him.
When the trumpet sounds, the dead in Christ will rise and be changed, in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, and we who trust in Him shall be like Him.
Our bodies matter to God. And He will not allow them to stay in the grave forever. Soon, everyone will rise on Judgment Day.
Because Christ died and rose again, we who are united to Him by faith will also rise from the grave to be in the presence of God.
The cross of Christ is the proof of God’s love toward sinners. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
We are forgiven by Christ’s death on the cross because the punishment for sin fell on Him instead of us. Therefore, at the cross, God’s forgiveness is released toward us.
On the cross, Jesus bore the sins of the world. The cross shows us both the heinousness of sin and the love of God.
We cannot separate Christ’s Lordship from His salvation of us. It is a fundamental misunderstanding of the gospel to think that you can receive what Jesus offers and at the same time resist what He commands.
The multiple theophanies that occurred in the Old Testament were pointing forward to a time when the Lord himself would come in human flesh.
God took the initiative in sending Christ to be born of the virgin Mary. He did not wait for a Deliverer to arise from us, He came to us in the person of Jesus.
Being faithful to God does not necessarily mean that we must sacrifice success in this world.
As Christians, we are in the world, but our citizenship is in Heaven. What does it mean to be a part of two kingdoms?
In the Bible, there are many examples of bad shepherds of God’s People. But Jesus is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep.
The prophet Ezekiel was a man who had many hopes and dreams just like us. But his dreams were shattered. Where do we turn when that happens to us?
Jesus suffered, and he is called a man of sorrows. What a comfort it is to know that the Lord himself understands what it means to feel sadness and pain, and that He is with us in our sorrow.
Your difficulties break your heart, and they cause you to cry out to God. It is good to know that the tears of God's people are precious to Him.
The Book of Lamentations is a book of sorrow. Thank God that the Bible speaks to us in our pain.
When Nicodemus came to Jesus, Jesus told him that he needed to be born again. What does that mean?
After King David sinned, he asked God to create in him a clean heart. This should be our prayer as well.
Salvation in Christ is not something we must work to attain. It is a free gift, given by the Lord himself to unworthy sinners.
The Lord calls His servants to be humble and serve others. We are not to trample on the weak but to help them.
God’s servants do not serve themselves, but rather Him. They are not called to fame or fortune, but to do their Master’s will.
The holiness of God humbles us in every way. When we come to understand it, even in small measure, it causes us to have humility.
God is holy. It is an essential element of His nature. In order to see God rightly, we must see Him as holy.
In Isaiah’s day, the people had started to treat the worship of God in a very casual way. But God does not want rote worship, rather, He wants our whole heart.
It is amazing to think that when a sinner repents, heaven rejoices. Oh, how that should cause us to rejoice here on earth as well!
What does the Word of God do? It both convicts us and strengthens us to follow the Lord with joy.
One of the greatest problems with the natural man is that his heart is like a stone toward God. But, thankfully, Jesus is able to take out our hearts of stone and give us hearts of flesh through the Holy Spirit!
The Scriptures need to be in our hands and in our hearts continuously. If they aren’t, it doesn’t take long for us to fall of the path.
King Josiah sought the LORD from a young age. He is an example for us and for our children.
Where should we start when we want to evangelize someone? Jesus began with the knowledge of God.
There are many attributes of God which are revealed to us in the Bible. The Bible says God is love but it does not say God is anger. Anger does not come naturally to Him. It must be provoked.
Elijah's prayer brought the fire of God onto the sacrifice and not on the people. This points to the cross where God's judgment was poured out on Jesus, who became the ultimate sacrifice for us.
The claim of the Bible is that God’s Word is true. We can stand on that claim because Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
The kingdom of Heaven will not be like the earthly tabernacle where the presence of God came and went; instead it will be a place where God and men are together forever.
In the Old Testament, the tabernacle, and then later the temple, was where God met with men. But now, that meeting place is a Personthe Lord Jesus Christ.
The stones that built the temple in Jerusalem point to believers who are called living stones. And God is building His people up for an eternal inheritance.
How we respond when someone calls us out for our sin reveals whether or not our heart is in the right place with God.
In former times, God spoke in a variety of ways and through many different means, but once Jesus came, God spoke to us through His Son. And Jesus has given us everything we need.
The authors of Scripture did not make things up as they went. Rather, they were carried along by the Spirit to write the Bible. That fact differentiates the Scriptures from every other book.
The world tells us to find our self-esteem, but as Christians, we find our worth in Christ and what He has done. We can lift our heads with Christ-esteem!
Kingdoms rise and kingdoms fall, but God’s kingdom and God’s throne shall stand forever!
Sometimes men think they are going to do something great for God, but God has other plans. When that happens, what is your attitude? If it is bad, were you doing it for God or for yourself?
In the Bible we see that human kings fail all the time. But Jesus is a king you can put your trust in because He always rules with truth, righteousness, and grace.
God Himself is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, but His people desired another king. The result was not pleasing to God and it was disastrous for Israel.
The judges of Israel delivered the people time and again from wicked foreign rulers. But Christ is a better deliverer because He saves us from sin and the evil one.
Idolatry is powerfully attractive, but at the same time it is deeply offensive to God. How should we treat the idols of our hearts?
During the time of the judges in Israel, the people had lost the knowledge of God and His wondrous works. But thankfully, that knowledge would eventually be restored.
The Gospel is free, but there is a cost to follow Jesus. We are called to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him.
It's easy for us to think that our comfort is the thing that matters most. But God has not called us to a life of convenience; Christ died for us that we should no longer live for ourselves, but go out and do His will.
God calls His people to be brave and to trust Him. When we don’t, the result is never good.
One of the greatest problems plaguing mankind is the guilt of our sin. But in Christ, our guilt is removed and our souls are cleansed.
On the Day of Atonement, the scapegoat carried the sins of the people on itself. Christ was a scapegoat for us as well.
If you find yourself in a court of law, you'll need an attorney to speak on your behalf. In the Old Testament, the priests represented the people. But if you come to Jesus in faith, He is your High Priest and He interceeds for you.
The sacrifices of the Old Testament were types and shadows of a much greater sacrifice which was to come. The sacrifice of Christ Himself.
How do you get to the place of reconciling with someone you’ve had a falling out with? Pastor Colin talks about how reconciliation happens and what it looks like from the story of Joseph.
Feeling sorry isn’t enough to atone for sin. What is needed is a payment that only Christ can provide.
The purpose of God’s law was not to show us how we may climb to heaven. Rather, it is the pattern that God set forth that we may know what righteousness looks like.
The 10 Commandments show us God’s holy and righteous standard for our lives. To follow them is to live a godly life.
The Old Testament sacrificial system pointed forward to the time when the ultimate sacrifice would be made by Jesus Christ.
We must believe in God as He is, and not as we wish Him to be. To mold Him into our image is insulting to Him.
Through faith, we enjoy the credit of Christ’s righteousness to our account. That is the basis of our standing before God.
The account of Noah in the Bible teaches us to be ready. Christ will return someday. Will you be ready when He does?
The devil uses many traps to ensnare people, but one of his greatest traps is the temptation to distrust and disbelieve God’s Word.
We are both created by God and sustained by God. This truth both humbles and dignifies us.
Abraham and the patriarchs in the Bible were saved in the same way that we are, by faith in the Lord Jesus. Abraham believed God, and it was counted as righteousness.
History shows us that sin spreads rapidly as people move away from God. Sadly, this is the case even today.
Though Adam and his progeny were cursed because of Adam’s disobedience, Christ took that curse for us in His body on the tree!
After Adam sinned, work became a burden. But in the Kingdom of God, work will be a complete joy!
How wonderful is it that God thought of you as Christ was dying on the cross? He loves sinners so much, even those who had yet to be born.
God has given us tools to win the war against sin and the devil. God uses the Bible as a mirror and counselors as a source of wisdom to help you find the truth.
Most people think that other people are their main problem, but that isn’t true. We don’t struggle against flesh and blood, but against the evil one.
Do you see the Church as central to the purposes of God in the world? He certainly does, and he will use his Church to accomplish his ends.
God’s purpose is to draw all men to himself, and he is doing just that right now around the world!
Satan always tries to confuse Christians about their position before God. But if you have the Holy Spirit living inside of you, you can be secure and have assurance of salvation.
Man is naturally hostile toward God, but you do not have to stay that way. While we were yet hostile sinners toward God, He loved us and gave himself for us.
If you are a believer in Jesus, you are not helpless against sin. The Holy Spirit lives inside of you and enables you to fight!
Before Christ saved us, we were utterly powerless against the sin that so easily entangles us. But now, we have an entirely new position. In Christ we have strength to fight sin and live for God.
Union with Christ is more than you turning over a new leaf or making a decision to live a better life. It's the life of Jesus Christ flowing into you by the power of the Holy Spirit.
What is the reason for the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ? What significance do these things have for us today?
The death of Jesus actually accomplished something of infinite value for us. Our redemption.
This world is filled with troubles and strife. Jesus knew and experienced all of it. But He has also overcome the evil and trouble of this world, and since we are in Him we can have victory as well!
The righteousness of Christ is credited to our account by faith alone. We cannot earn it, because it was earned by Jesus himself, and is given to us freely.
Justification is a legal term, but what does it mean and how does it relate to Christians?
Our sin is an offense to God. But the God whose holiness we have offended, whose world we have spoiled, and whose wrath we have incurred sent His one and only Son to bear this wrath for us.
At the Cross of Christ, all of God’s wrath toward sin was poured out upon Jesus. There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ.
In order for love to be genuine, it must hate evil. God's wrath is His settled resolve that evil will not stand.
When God justifies us, he charges our sins to Jesus and He credits the righteousness of Jesus to us. We aren't justified by our performance, rather by faith, the perfect righteousness of Jesus becomes ours.
God could, if he chose, do all things by himself. But in His infinite wisdom, He chooses to work through vessels of clay to accomplish His ends in the world.
When we see Jesus as He really is, the Sovereign Lord of creation changes everything about our lives. There is no part of life that He is not sovereign over.
In the Bible we see God working through people in various ways and at various times. That did not stop when the Bible was complete. The Lord is still working today, and you are a part of it!
It is God’s desire to empower His people to be his witnesses throughout the world. He has done so, and continues to do so.
The early church was a ragtag group of disciples with little strengthuntil the Holy Spirit descended upon them in power!
Jesus Christ came to fulfill all of the promises that were delivered by the Old Testament Prophets. In Him, every promise is Yes and Amen.
Jesus Christ came to give us abundant life in the Spirit, to restore to us the life that was lost in Adam.
The Bible presents us with the truth about Jesus Christ and his salvation. Will you choose to trust Him, or will you reject Him?
The Holy Spirit not only supports believers by being with us and strengthening us. He also lives inside of every Christian and gives life to our souls.
We receive salvation by faith in Jesus Christ alone, but the faith we need to believe is itself a gift from God given by the Holy Spirit. He applies salvation to us.
If Jesus were not God, He would not be able to tell His disciples, If you have seen me you have seen the Father.
Part of the glory of Christ is that He has life in Himself which the Father granted to Him.
What is the nature and relationship between the first and second persons of the Trinity?
To know the Father’s love means to obey Him, for only those who obey are able to say that they recognize His authority over their lives and experience His loving care for them.
There are very important things to know about God’s Nature. Three of those things are: There is one God, He exists in three persons, and each person in the Trinity is truly God.
The word "baptize" means to dip or drench. So the Christian life is all about being drenched in the Father, plunged into the Son, and soaked in the Spirit.
Though we are not what we once were before we knew Christ, we are also not yet what we will be when we see Him face to face. In that day, we will be perfected!
Jesus finished His work of salvation on the cross. But now He continues to work making intercession for His people.
One of our greatest needs is an Advocate with God the Father in Heaven. That is what Jesus is for all who belong to Him.
When the trumpet sounds, the dead in Christ will rise and be changed, in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, and we who trust in Him shall be like Him.
Our bodies matter to God. And He will not allow them to stay in the grave forever. Soon, everyone will rise on Judgment Day.
Because Christ died and rose again, we who are united to Him by faith will also rise from the grave to be in the presence of God.
The cross of Christ is the proof of God’s love toward sinners. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
We are forgiven by Christ’s death on the cross because the punishment for sin fell on Him instead of us. Therefore, at the cross, God’s forgiveness is released toward us.
On the cross, Jesus bore the sins of the world. The cross shows us both the heinousness of sin and the love of God.
We cannot separate Christ’s Lordship from His salvation of us. It is a fundamental misunderstanding of the gospel to think that you can receive what Jesus offers and at the same time resist what He commands.
The multiple theophanies that occurred in the Old Testament were pointing forward to a time when the Lord himself would come in human flesh.
God took the initiative in sending Christ to be born of the virgin Mary. He did not wait for a Deliverer to arise from us, He came to us in the person of Jesus.
Being faithful to God does not necessarily mean that we must sacrifice success in this world.
As Christians, we are in the world, but our citizenship is in Heaven. What does it mean to be a part of two kingdoms?
In the Bible, there are many examples of bad shepherds of God’s People. But Jesus is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep.
The prophet Ezekiel was a man who had many hopes and dreams just like us. But his dreams were shattered. Where do we turn when that happens to us?
Jesus suffered, and he is called a man of sorrows. What a comfort it is to know that the Lord himself understands what it means to feel sadness and pain, and that He is with us in our sorrow.
Your difficulties break your heart, and they cause you to cry out to God. It is good to know that the tears of God's people are precious to Him.
How can a person who’s on the wrong track change? The biblical word for it is repentance. It’s a change of behavior that comes from a change of mind. Pastor Colin talks about where you find the courage to do it.
What does peacemaking look like in practice? How would you like some down-to-earth, practical tactics? Pastor Colin gives us Ten Tactics for Peacemakers.
Some Christians are constantly chiding themselves for their lack of progress. Other Christians have never really grasped what God can do for them. Pastor Colin talks about how to find the right balance.
Salvation in Christ is not something we must work to attain. It is a free gift, given by the Lord himself to unworthy sinners.
Maybe you think purity is something that you have when you’re young, and you lose it when you mess up. But in the Bible, purity is something that you go after.
God puts responsibility on you for your growth in purity. Confusion over this is a major reason why so many Christians make little progress. Pastor Colin explains what we can do about it.
God’s servants do not serve themselves, but rather Him. They are not called to fame or fortune, but to do their Master’s will.
A father asks his two sons to go and do something. One son says, Yes sir! The other son says, No way! Which of the two sons did what their father asked? Pastor Colin talks about why what matters is not what you say, but what you do.
God is holy. It is an essential element of His nature. In order to see God rightly, we must see Him as holy.
Jesus says: Blessed are the pure in heart. Does anyone hear that and say, That’s me!? At first glance, it sounds impossible! Pastor Colin explains what purity of heart is and what it isn’t.
It is amazing to think that when a sinner repents, heaven rejoices. Oh, how that should cause us to rejoice here on earth as well!
What does the Word of God do? It both convicts us and strengthens us to follow the Lord with joy.
Where and how can you be merciful? What would that actually look like? Pastor Colin helps us discover seven opportunities for manifesting mercy.
The Scriptures need to be in our hands and in our hearts continuously. If they aren’t, it doesn’t take long for us to fall of the path.
If only you didn’t have this illness if only you had a believing spouse if only the circumstances of your life were different, then you’d finally be able to offer yourself fully to God. Pastor Colin talks about why this approach to life is an illusion.
Where should we start when we want to evangelize someone? Jesus began with the knowledge of God.
There are many attributes of God which are revealed to us in the Bible. The Bible says God is love but it does not say God is anger. Anger does not come naturally to Him. It must be provoked.
Did you know that your own spiritual appetite, your hunger and thirst for God himself can be cultivated? Here’s the key: Change your diet, and you will change your appetite.
What do you think will give you satisfaction? Is it to be loved? To be appreciated? To get revenge? Jesus tells us that there is only one thing that will satisfy completely. Pastor Colin shows us what this is.
What does it look like to be blessed by God? Jesus tells us that the blessed people are not those who think they’re right, but those who feel that they’re not.
In the Old Testament, the tabernacle, and then later the temple, was where God met with men. But now, that meeting place is a Personthe Lord Jesus Christ.
The stones that built the temple in Jerusalem point to believers who are called living stones. And God is building His people up for an eternal inheritance.
How we respond when someone calls us out for our sin reveals whether or not our heart is in the right place with God.
In former times, God spoke in a variety of ways and through many different means, but once Jesus came, God spoke to us through His Son. And Jesus has given us everything we need.
While Jesus hung from the cross, he prayed Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing. How did he do that? Pastor Colin shows us that this is what the Bible calls meekness.
Gentle Jesus, meek and mild Now that doesn’t sound like the kind of thing a guy who watches football would want to go after. You might be surprised. Pastor Colin talks about some reasons why.
One glimpse of the love of Christ will do more to strengthen you in your battle against sin than a hundred commitments. Pastor Colin talks about where to look for a glimpse of Christ’s love.
Sometimes men think they are going to do something great for God, but God has other plans. When that happens, what is your attitude? If it is bad, were you doing it for God or for yourself?
You’ve identified some areas of sin in your life now what? How do you deal with them? The Bible describes sin as a wild animal,’ ready to pounce on us. So, get your hunting gear ready, because Pastor Colin is going to help us discover how to deal with sin.
How do you deal with habitual sinsthe endless cycle of sinning, saying you’re sorry and then repeating the same behavior? Pastor Colin talks about why we never actually move forward in the Christian life without spiritual mourning. Find out the reasons, and how to move forward.
God says: Blessed are those who mourn. But there is a kind of mourning that leads to death, and another kind of mourning that leads to comfort. Pastor Colin helps us discover the difference.
If you grow in humility, you will reap a whole cluster of other blessings. Pastor Colin talks about how growing in humility will give you the strength you need to face troubles, relationships, and temptations.
Do you think God is for everybody? Many people were taught this from a young age. But Pastor Colin shows us, from the Bible, that God is actually against some people.
The Gospel is free, but there is a cost to follow Jesus. We are called to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him.
It's easy for us to think that our comfort is the thing that matters most. But God has not called us to a life of convenience; Christ died for us that we should no longer live for ourselves, but go out and do His will.
God calls His people to be brave and to trust Him. When we don’t, the result is never good.
One of the greatest problems plaguing mankind is the guilt of our sin. But in Christ, our guilt is removed and our souls are cleansed.
You want to make progress in the Christian life, but you feel stuck. You’ve lost momentum. Pastor Colin talks about the key to progress in the Christian life, and where all progress starts.
You can tell what kind of bird you’re looking at by its distinguishing marks. So, what are the distinguishing marks of a Christian? Pastor Colin talks about how you would know it if you actually spotted one.
The church is more than a place to come and worship on Sunday. It’s like an African safari, with real dangers and threats. Pastor Colin explains what this means for your relationships in the church.
Perhaps your prevailing attitude toward God has become questioning, complaining, and resenting. Pastor Colin talks about what your prevailing attitude toward God would be, if you were able to see his glory.
What sins and flaws do you struggle with? What sins or flaws would you expect to find in any authentic Christian community? Pastor Colin helps us understand this, so we can have more realistic expectations of the church.
Are you someone who makes things happen’? Do you also struggle with anxiety? There is a real connection between anxiety and pride.
Humility is a unique challenge for two groups of people: 1. Those who have high moral principles, and 2. Those who’ve experienced great success.
Do you think your Christian experience is strange? Maybe you’ve been experiencing some difficulties lately. Pastor Colin talks about what the normal Christian life looks like.
What do you expect the Christian life to be like? Are your expectations realistic? What kind of life can you expect if you follow a crucified Savior? Pastor Colin talks about the kind of expectations the Bible gives us.
Many people believe that the first step in repentance is cleaning up your life or turning from sin. It’s not. Pastor Colin explains that the first step in repentance is knowing God.
When are you going to start living for Christ? Three clocks are ticking: 1. Your time, 2. Their time, and 3. Our time. Pastor Colin helps us discover what each has to say about how we are to live as Christians.
Are you willing to do what is right? What if it costs you something? Pastor Colin helps us discover what happens to our obedience when we’re ready to pay the price.
Are you surrounded by people who are highly resistant to the gospel? So was Noah. And God still used him as a model for how to share your faith. Pastor Colin explains some encouraging reason why.
A picture is worth a thousand words but the gospel of Jesus Christ cannot be fully grasped through images alone. Pastor Colin explains what’s missing in our witness if we rely simply on images.
The Bible never says that we have to be perfect before God will listen to our prayers. But he sometimes chooses not to listen. Pastor Colin shows us why God sometimes presses the mute button on our prayers.
If you’ve ever said, I just can’t change! you need to meet the man in the Bible who couldn’t repent. Pastor Colin talks about what stood between Esau and repentanceand how real and lasting change is possible for you.
Many people are convinced that God hears every prayer, offered by every person, in every circumstance. But this is simply not true. Pastor Colin shows us when and why God presses the mute button on our prayers.
Because of the Fall, mankind’s knowledge of evil is more than intellectual, it is sadly experiential.
What are theophanies? Why does God appear in a way that people can see in the Old Testament?
The gathered community of those who love Jesus are the only ones who can do this. Pastor Colin shows us it cannot be delegated to anyone else. Find out what it is.
After Adam sinned, work became a burden. But in the Kingdom of God, work will be a complete joy!
If you think repentance is beating yourself up, you won’t be able to hear what Jesus says about a changed life. Pastor Colin talks about why you may be pleasantly surprised to find out what repentance really is.
Do you have a dream job? A great marriage? And a growing feeling of emptiness inside? That’s because nothing in this world can give you the fullness of life that God intends for you. Pastor Colin talks about a whole new way to live.
Do you believe the Holy Spirit lives in you? If you’re not sure about that, you will never triumph over temptation. Pastor Colin talks about why the power of positive thinking isn’t enough to live the Christian life.
You have faith in Jesus Christ, but you sometimes wonder: Is this real? Or am I just fooling myself? Pastor Colin talks about the surprising litmus test.
You became a Christian. You said a prayer. You made a commitment. But what actually happened? Pastor Colin talks about what happens behind the scenes of a person coming to faith in Christ.
What if the Spirit of God were to come and live in you? Pastor Colin talks about what kind of change it would bring to your life if the Spirit of God came to live in you.
God’s purpose is to draw all men to himself, and he is doing just that right now around the world!
People who find it difficult to believe in Jesus Christ without first-hand evidence sometimes say, If only an angel would appear to me, then I’d believe. Pastor Colin talks about what difference that would really make.
Man is naturally hostile toward God, but you do not have to stay that way. While we were yet hostile sinners toward God, He loved us and gave himself for us.
How do you know if God is for you or against you? Pastor Colin talks about the Bible’s answer to this question.
Do you have a sneaking suspicion that God’s against you? Pastor Colin talks about why it’s more natural to fear God than to love Him.
Union with Christ is more than you turning over a new leaf or making a decision to live a better life. It's the life of Jesus Christ flowing into you by the power of the Holy Spirit.
What makes the Christian message so offensive? Pastor Colin talks about the central claim of Christianity, and why our culture finds it so offensive.
The death of Jesus actually accomplished something of infinite value for us. Our redemption.
This world is filled with troubles and strife. Jesus knew and experienced all of it. But He has also overcome the evil and trouble of this world, and since we are in Him we can have victory as well!
When Jesus was born the angel said, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Pastor Colin talks about the name Savior, and why it is such good news for us.
David’s victory over Goliath led the people of God to crown him King. David had many successes, but he also had his share of failures. God’s people needed a greater king than David. Find out why Jesus is that greater king.
Perhaps you’ve accomplished great things in business, or in some other area of life. The most important thing about you, in the end, will not be your achievements; but your relationship to Jesus Christ.
Trace a problem back to its root, and it often takes you down a long, winding road. When the Bible traces the problem of death back to its root, it takes us to the failure of one man.
Abraham experienced God’s blessing during his lifetime, including a son in his old age, and a pair of grandchildren. But he was still waiting for God’s promise when he died. Find out what it was.
When God justifies us, he charges our sins to Jesus and He credits the righteousness of Jesus to us. We aren't justified by our performance, rather by faith, the perfect righteousness of Jesus becomes ours.
God could, if he chose, do all things by himself. But in His infinite wisdom, He chooses to work through vessels of clay to accomplish His ends in the world.
When we see Jesus as He really is, the Sovereign Lord of creation changes everything about our lives. There is no part of life that He is not sovereign over.
Ever think about the legacy you’ll leave behind? Discover how one man’s legacy was turned upside-down in an instant, when he came face-to-face with the Son of God.
Christmas is more than just a sentimental story. The story of Christmas is about how God stepped into human history. Find out what this greatest of miracles means for you.
You find the virgin birth difficult to believe Well, how do you think it was for Joseph, Mary’s husband? Hear from the man who had a ringside seat for the greatest event in the history of the universe.
Simeon, an ordinary man, was anointed by God and given prophetic words about Jesus just 8 days after He was born! Find out what his message meant for Mary and for us.
Jesus Christ came to give us abundant life in the Spirit, to restore to us the life that was lost in Adam.
The Bible presents us with the truth about Jesus Christ and his salvation. Will you choose to trust Him, or will you reject Him?
Simeon was an ordinary man who had the extraordinary privilege of holding Jesus in his arms... eight days after he was born. Hear his testimony, and discover what he said about the Son of God, as Pastor Colin delivers a first-person message from Simeon.
The Apostle John called himself, The disciple whom Jesus loved. Find out what he had to say about the birth of Christ, in Pastor Colin’s first-person narrative message from John.
Where will it eventually lead you if you believe in Jesus? Pastor Colin talks about the Bible’s very clear answer to this question.
If salvation and eternal life are yours by believing, then what does it mean to believe? Pastor Colin talks about three things that are included in the biblical idea of believing.
Part of the glory of Christ is that He has life in Himself which the Father granted to Him.
What is the nature and relationship between the first and second persons of the Trinity?
To know the Father’s love means to obey Him, for only those who obey are able to say that they recognize His authority over their lives and experience His loving care for them.
There are very important things to know about God’s Nature. Three of those things are: There is one God, He exists in three persons, and each person in the Trinity is truly God.
The word "baptize" means to dip or drench. So the Christian life is all about being drenched in the Father, plunged into the Son, and soaked in the Spirit.
Though we are not what we once were before we knew Christ, we are also not yet what we will be when we see Him face to face. In that day, we will be perfected!
Jesus finished His work of salvation on the cross. But now He continues to work making intercession for His people.
One of our greatest needs is an Advocate with God the Father in Heaven. That is what Jesus is for all who belong to Him.
When the trumpet sounds, the dead in Christ will rise and be changed, in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, and we who trust in Him shall be like Him.
Our bodies matter to God. And He will not allow them to stay in the grave forever. Soon, everyone will rise on Judgment Day.
As a Christian, you have 3 basic responsibilities with respect to the gospel. Pastor Colin talks about receiving, guarding, and delivering the gospel.
The cross of Christ is the proof of God’s love toward sinners. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
We are forgiven by Christ’s death on the cross because the punishment for sin fell on Him instead of us. Therefore, at the cross, God’s forgiveness is released toward us.
Do you ever feel like giving up? Timothy sure did. But he persevered, and God used him because of it. Pastor Colin talks about the power of perseverance.
We cannot separate Christ’s Lordship from His salvation of us. It is a fundamental misunderstanding of the gospel to think that you can receive what Jesus offers and at the same time resist what He commands.
The multiple theophanies that occurred in the Old Testament were pointing forward to a time when the Lord himself would come in human flesh.
You want your life count for Jesus. So what will it take? Pastor Colin talks about the traits that made Timothy effective for the Lord.
Being faithful to God does not necessarily mean that we must sacrifice success in this world.
As Christians, we are in the world, but our citizenship is in Heaven. What does it mean to be a part of two kingdoms?
In the Bible, there are many examples of bad shepherds of God’s People. But Jesus is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep.
The prophet Ezekiel was a man who had many hopes and dreams just like us. But his dreams were shattered. Where do we turn when that happens to us?
Jesus suffered, and he is called a man of sorrows. What a comfort it is to know that the Lord himself understands what it means to feel sadness and pain, and that He is with us in our sorrow.
Your difficulties break your heart, and they cause you to cry out to God. It is good to know that the tears of God's people are precious to Him.
How can we be more responsive to God? Pastor Colin talks about the life of Timothy, and how you can make a greater impact for Christ.
How can you know God? Where can you find God? Who is He and what is He like? God has not left you to make up your own answer.
The glory of the Lord will be revealed. It’s like opening a Christmas present You know something good is in there, but you haven’t seen it yet. Pastor Colin talks about what the glory of the Lord is.
Ever wonder what’s the difference between Jesus and us? Pastor Colin talks about why once you grasp this it will give you confidence in God’s Word.
God’s servants do not serve themselves, but rather Him. They are not called to fame or fortune, but to do their Master’s will.
The holiness of God humbles us in every way. When we come to understand it, even in small measure, it causes us to have humility.
What are godly fathers to say to their families? How are godly teachers and Bible study leaders to speak to those they lead? Pastor Colin talks about how all Christians are to communicate when we speak in the Lord’s name.
God is holy. It is an essential element of His nature. In order to see God rightly, we must see Him as holy.
In Isaiah’s day, the people had started to treat the worship of God in a very casual way. But God does not want rote worship, rather, He wants our whole heart.
The Bible says that Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength. Pastor Colin talks about what it means to wait on the Lord.
It is amazing to think that when a sinner repents, heaven rejoices. Oh, how that should cause us to rejoice here on earth as well!
What does the Word of God do? It both convicts us and strengthens us to follow the Lord with joy.
The Bible says that Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength. Pastor Colin talks about what it means to wait on the Lord.
One of the greatest problems with the natural man is that his heart is like a stone toward God. But, thankfully, Jesus is able to take out our hearts of stone and give us hearts of flesh through the Holy Spirit!
You are grinding out lifework, relationships, and church. But what happened to your love for the Lord? Pastor Colin helps us see how we can lose (and gain back!) our love for the Lord.
The Scriptures need to be in our hands and in our hearts continuously. If they aren’t, it doesn’t take long for us to fall of the path.
King Josiah sought the LORD from a young age. He is an example for us and for our children.
God is love, and we were made in his image. So then, what went wrong? Did Adam and Eve stop loving? Pastor Colin helps us unravel this mystery.
Do you feel that God is far away from you right now? Pastor Colin Smith helps us understand why this is only a problem for those who love him.
Where should we start when we want to evangelize someone? Jesus began with the knowledge of God.
If you’ve ever tried to pray and felt like you were getting nowhere, you’re not alone. Join Pastor Colin as he helps us see why this sometimes happens, even to Christians.
Maybe you have experienced a love that did not last. How then can you take Jesus at His word when He says, I will love you always? Pastor Colin helps us to understand why Jesus’ love is different.
You have been stretching yourself out in prayer and service. But it feels like God is not keeping up his side of the bargain. Pastor Colin talks about why that may be and what you can do about it.
When you feel completely wretched about yourself, do you avoid coming to Jesus Christ? Pastor Colin Smith shows you why you don’t need to avoid him, even in your darkest hour.
Some people see God as a referee, or a gatekeeper, or a servant. Pastor Colin helps us to see that what we believe most deeply about God will shape our experience of Him.
How can you know God’s love? How does God show his love to us, and how would you recognize it? Pastor Colin explores these questions and more.
When the Lord is your shepherd, His love welcomes you. Pastor Colin talks about what it will be like when the Good Shepherd welcomes His people into the immediate presence of the Lord.
When the Lord is your shepherd, His love surrounds you. Pastor Colin talks about the love of the Good Shepherd that pursues and welcomes.
It is possible to serve the Lord with great distinction, and then to undo much of the good you have accomplished. The final chapter of David’s life serves as a warning to us that it is possible to accomplish much good, but then for it all to unravel in the later years of our lives because of our own sin and folly.
God has new strength, new purpose, and new joy for you. Pastor Colin talks about how it can become yours.
What will keep you going when you feel tired, jaded, drained, and spent? Pastor Colin talks about 3 ways God sustains us.
How things go when you enter the dark valley depends entirely on who’s with you. Pastor Colin talks about why you don’t need to be afraid of the dark.
When you find yourself in a dark valley, Psalm 23 is for you. Pastor Colin talks about God’s presence with us in the dark.
The Good Shepherd knows how to restore you when you falter. Pastor Colin talks about 5 ways God restores us when we falter.
It is possible to serve the Lord with great distinction, and then to undo much of the good you have accomplished. The final chapter of David’s life serves as a warning to us that it is possible to accomplish much good, but then for it all to unravel in the later years of our lives because of our own sin and folly.
The Good Shepherd leads us, and He restores our souls. Pastor Colin talks about why we need this restoring.
It's easy for us to think that our comfort is the thing that matters most. But God has not called us to a life of convenience; Christ died for us that we should no longer live for ourselves, but go out and do His will.
God calls His people to be brave and to trust Him. When we don’t, the result is never good.
One of the greatest problems plaguing mankind is the guilt of our sin. But in Christ, our guilt is removed and our souls are cleansed.
On the Day of Atonement, the scapegoat carried the sins of the people on itself. Christ was a scapegoat for us as well.
If you find yourself in a court of law, you'll need an attorney to speak on your behalf. In the Old Testament, the priests represented the people. But if you come to Jesus in faith, He is your High Priest and He interceeds for you.
The sacrifices of the Old Testament were types and shadows of a much greater sacrifice which was to come. The sacrifice of Christ Himself.
Feeling sorry isn’t enough to atone for sin. What is needed is a payment that only Christ can provide.
The purpose of God’s law was not to show us how we may climb to heaven. Rather, it is the pattern that God set forth that we may know what righteousness looks like.
The 10 Commandments show us God’s holy and righteous standard for our lives. To follow them is to live a godly life.
The Old Testament sacrificial system pointed forward to the time when the ultimate sacrifice would be made by Jesus Christ.
We must believe in God as He is, and not as we wish Him to be. To mold Him into our image is insulting to Him.
Through faith, we enjoy the credit of Christ’s righteousness to our account. That is the basis of our standing before God.
The account of Noah in the Bible teaches us to be ready. Christ will return someday. Will you be ready when He does?
The devil uses many traps to ensnare people, but one of his greatest traps is the temptation to distrust and disbelieve God’s Word.
We are both created by God and sustained by God. This truth both humbles and dignifies us.
Abraham and the patriarchs in the Bible were saved in the same way that we are, by faith in the Lord Jesus. Abraham believed God, and it was counted as righteousness.
History shows us that sin spreads rapidly as people move away from God. Sadly, this is the case even today.
God has given us tools to win the war against sin and the devil. God uses the Bible as a mirror and counselors as a source of wisdom to help you find the truth.
Most people think that other people are their main problem, but that isn’t true. We don’t struggle against flesh and blood, but against the evil one.
Do you see the Church as central to the purposes of God in the world? He certainly does, and he will use his Church to accomplish his ends.
God’s purpose is to draw all men to himself, and he is doing just that right now around the world!
Satan always tries to confuse Christians about their position before God. But if you have the Holy Spirit living inside of you, you can be secure and have assurance of salvation.
Man is naturally hostile toward God, but you do not have to stay that way. While we were yet hostile sinners toward God, He loved us and gave himself for us.
If you are a believer in Jesus, you are not helpless against sin. The Holy Spirit lives inside of you and enables you to fight!
Before Christ saved us, we were utterly powerless against the sin that so easily entangles us. But now, we have an entirely new position. In Christ we have strength to fight sin and live for God.
Union with Christ is more than you turning over a new leaf or making a decision to live a better life. It's the life of Jesus Christ flowing into you by the power of the Holy Spirit.
What is the reason for the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ? What significance do these things have for us today?
The death of Jesus actually accomplished something of infinite value for us. Our redemption.
This world is filled with troubles and strife. Jesus knew and experienced all of it. But He has also overcome the evil and trouble of this world, and since we are in Him we can have victory as well!
The righteousness of Christ is credited to our account by faith alone. We cannot earn it, because it was earned by Jesus himself, and is given to us freely.
Justification is a legal term, but what does it mean and how does it relate to Christians?
Our sin is an offense to God. But the God whose holiness we have offended, whose world we have spoiled, and whose wrath we have incurred sent His one and only Son to bear this wrath for us.
At the Cross of Christ, all of God’s wrath toward sin was poured out upon Jesus. There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ.
In order for love to be genuine, it must hate evil. God's wrath is His settled resolve that evil will not stand.
When God justifies us, he charges our sins to Jesus and He credits the righteousness of Jesus to us. We aren't justified by our performance, rather by faith, the perfect righteousness of Jesus becomes ours.
God could, if he chose, do all things by himself. But in His infinite wisdom, He chooses to work through vessels of clay to accomplish His ends in the world.
When we see Jesus as He really is, the Sovereign Lord of creation changes everything about our lives. There is no part of life that He is not sovereign over.
In the Bible we see God working through people in various ways and at various times. That did not stop when the Bible was complete. The Lord is still working today, and you are a part of it!
It is God’s desire to empower His people to be his witnesses throughout the world. He has done so, and continues to do so.
The early church was a ragtag group of disciples with little strengthuntil the Holy Spirit descended upon them in power!
Jesus Christ came to fulfill all of the promises that were delivered by the Old Testament Prophets. In Him, every promise is Yes and Amen.
Jesus Christ came to give us abundant life in the Spirit, to restore to us the life that was lost in Adam.
The Bible presents us with the truth about Jesus Christ and his salvation. Will you choose to trust Him, or will you reject Him?
The Holy Spirit not only supports believers by being with us and strengthening us. He also lives inside of every Christian and gives life to our souls.
We receive salvation by faith in Jesus Christ alone, but the faith we need to believe is itself a gift from God given by the Holy Spirit. He applies salvation to us.
If Jesus were not God, He would not be able to tell His disciples, If you have seen me you have seen the Father.
Part of the glory of Christ is that He has life in Himself which the Father granted to Him.
What is the nature and relationship between the first and second persons of the Trinity?
To know the Father’s love means to obey Him, for only those who obey are able to say that they recognize His authority over their lives and experience His loving care for them.
There are very important things to know about God’s Nature. Three of those things are: There is one God, He exists in three persons, and each person in the Trinity is truly God.
The word "baptize" means to dip or drench. So the Christian life is all about being drenched in the Father, plunged into the Son, and soaked in the Spirit.
Though we are not what we once were before we knew Christ, we are also not yet what we will be when we see Him face to face. In that day, we will be perfected!
Jesus finished His work of salvation on the cross. But now He continues to work making intercession for His people.
One of our greatest needs is an Advocate with God the Father in Heaven. That is what Jesus is for all who belong to Him.
When the trumpet sounds, the dead in Christ will rise and be changed, in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, and we who trust in Him shall be like Him.
Our bodies matter to God. And He will not allow them to stay in the grave forever. Soon, everyone will rise on Judgment Day.
Because Christ died and rose again, we who are united to Him by faith will also rise from the grave to be in the presence of God.
The cross of Christ is the proof of God’s love toward sinners. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
We are forgiven by Christ’s death on the cross because the punishment for sin fell on Him instead of us. Therefore, at the cross, God’s forgiveness is released toward us.
On the cross, Jesus bore the sins of the world. The cross shows us both the heinousness of sin and the love of God.
We cannot separate Christ’s Lordship from His salvation of us. It is a fundamental misunderstanding of the gospel to think that you can receive what Jesus offers and at the same time resist what He commands.
The multiple theophanies that occurred in the Old Testament were pointing forward to a time when the Lord himself would come in human flesh.
God took the initiative in sending Christ to be born of the virgin Mary. He did not wait for a Deliverer to arise from us, He came to us in the person of Jesus.
Being faithful to God does not necessarily mean that we must sacrifice success in this world.
As Christians, we are in the world, but our citizenship is in Heaven. What does it mean to be a part of two kingdoms?
In the Bible, there are many examples of bad shepherds of God’s People. But Jesus is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep.
The prophet Ezekiel was a man who had many hopes and dreams just like us. But his dreams were shattered. Where do we turn when that happens to us?
Jesus suffered, and he is called a man of sorrows. What a comfort it is to know that the Lord himself understands what it means to feel sadness and pain, and that He is with us in our sorrow.
Your difficulties break your heart, and they cause you to cry out to God. It is good to know that the tears of God's people are precious to Him.
The Book of Lamentations is a book of sorrow. Thank God that the Bible speaks to us in our pain.
The Scriptures need to be in our hands and in our hearts continuously. If they aren’t, it doesn’t take long for us to fall of the path.
King Josiah sought the LORD from a young age. He is an example for us and for our children.
Where should we start when we want to evangelize someone? Jesus began with the knowledge of God.
There are many attributes of God which are revealed to us in the Bible. The Bible says God is love but it does not say God is anger. Anger does not come naturally to Him. It must be provoked.
Elijah's prayer brought the fire of God onto the sacrifice and not on the people. This points to the cross where God's judgment was poured out on Jesus, who became the ultimate sacrifice for us.
The claim of the Bible is that God’s Word is true. We can stand on that claim because Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
The kingdom of Heaven will not be like the earthly tabernacle where the presence of God came and went; instead it will be a place where God and men are together forever.
In the Old Testament, the tabernacle, and then later the temple, was where God met with men. But now, that meeting place is a Personthe Lord Jesus Christ.
The stones that built the temple in Jerusalem point to believers who are called living stones. And God is building His people up for an eternal inheritance.
How we respond when someone calls us out for our sin reveals whether or not our heart is in the right place with God.
In former times, God spoke in a variety of ways and through many different means, but once Jesus came, God spoke to us through His Son. And Jesus has given us everything we need.
The authors of Scripture did not make things up as they went. Rather, they were carried along by the Spirit to write the Bible. That fact differentiates the Scriptures from every other book.
The world tells us to find our self-esteem, but as Christians, we find our worth in Christ and what He has done. We can lift our heads with Christ-esteem!
Kingdoms rise and kingdoms fall, but God’s kingdom and God’s throne shall stand forever!
Sometimes men think they are going to do something great for God, but God has other plans. When that happens, what is your attitude? If it is bad, were you doing it for God or for yourself?
In the Bible we see that human kings fail all the time. But Jesus is a king you can put your trust in because He always rules with truth, righteousness, and grace.
God Himself is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, but His people desired another king. The result was not pleasing to God and it was disastrous for Israel.
The judges of Israel delivered the people time and again from wicked foreign rulers. But Christ is a better deliverer because He saves us from sin and the evil one.
Idolatry is powerfully attractive, but at the same time it is deeply offensive to God. How should we treat the idols of our hearts?
During the time of the judges in Israel, the people had lost the knowledge of God and His wondrous works. But thankfully, that knowledge would eventually be restored.
The Gospel is free, but there is a cost to follow Jesus. We are called to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him.
It's easy for us to think that our comfort is the thing that matters most. But God has not called us to a life of convenience; Christ died for us that we should no longer live for ourselves, but go out and do His will.
God calls His people to be brave and to trust Him. When we don’t, the result is never good.
One of the greatest problems plaguing mankind is the guilt of our sin. But in Christ, our guilt is removed and our souls are cleansed.
On the Day of Atonement, the scapegoat carried the sins of the people on itself. Christ was a scapegoat for us as well.
If you find yourself in a court of law, you'll need an attorney to speak on your behalf. In the Old Testament, the priests represented the people. But if you come to Jesus in faith, He is your High Priest and He interceeds for you.
The sacrifices of the Old Testament were types and shadows of a much greater sacrifice which was to come. The sacrifice of Christ Himself.
Feeling sorry isn’t enough to atone for sin. What is needed is a payment that only Christ can provide.
The purpose of God’s law was not to show us how we may climb to heaven. Rather, it is the pattern that God set forth that we may know what righteousness looks like.
The 10 Commandments show us God’s holy and righteous standard for our lives. To follow them is to live a godly life.
The Old Testament sacrificial system pointed forward to the time when the ultimate sacrifice would be made by Jesus Christ.
We must believe in God as He is, and not as we wish Him to be. To mold Him into our image is insulting to Him.
Through faith, we enjoy the credit of Christ’s righteousness to our account. That is the basis of our standing before God.
The account of Noah in the Bible teaches us to be ready. Christ will return someday. Will you be ready when He does?
The devil uses many traps to ensnare people, but one of his greatest traps is the temptation to distrust and disbelieve God’s Word.
We are both created by God and sustained by God. This truth both humbles and dignifies us.
What are theophanies? Why does God appear in a way that people can see in the Old Testament?
What is the significance of being created by God? Since God created us, He is the titleholder of our lives.
After Adam sinned, work became a burden. But in the Kingdom of God, work will be a complete joy!
How wonderful is it that God thought of you as Christ was dying on the cross? He loves sinners so much, even those who had yet to be born.
God has given us tools to win the war against sin and the devil. God uses the Bible as a mirror and counselors as a source of wisdom to help you find the truth.
Most people think that other people are their main problem, but that isn’t true. We don’t struggle against flesh and blood, but against the evil one.
Do you see the Church as central to the purposes of God in the world? He certainly does, and he will use his Church to accomplish his ends.
God’s purpose is to draw all men to himself, and he is doing just that right now around the world!
Satan always tries to confuse Christians about their position before God. But if you have the Holy Spirit living inside of you, you can be secure and have assurance of salvation.
Man is naturally hostile toward God, but you do not have to stay that way. While we were yet hostile sinners toward God, He loved us and gave himself for us.
If you are a believer in Jesus, you are not helpless against sin. The Holy Spirit lives inside of you and enables you to fight!
Before Christ saved us, we were utterly powerless against the sin that so easily entangles us. But now, we have an entirely new position. In Christ we have strength to fight sin and live for God.
Union with Christ is more than you turning over a new leaf or making a decision to live a better life. It's the life of Jesus Christ flowing into you by the power of the Holy Spirit.
What is the reason for the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ? What significance do these things have for us today?
The death of Jesus actually accomplished something of infinite value for us. Our redemption.
This world is filled with troubles and strife. Jesus knew and experienced all of it. But He has also overcome the evil and trouble of this world, and since we are in Him we can have victory as well!
The righteousness of Christ is credited to our account by faith alone. We cannot earn it, because it was earned by Jesus himself, and is given to us freely.
Justification is a legal term, but what does it mean and how does it relate to Christians?
Our sin is an offense to God. But the God whose holiness we have offended, whose world we have spoiled, and whose wrath we have incurred sent His one and only Son to bear this wrath for us.
At the Cross of Christ, all of God’s wrath toward sin was poured out upon Jesus. There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ.
In order for love to be genuine, it must hate evil. God's wrath is His settled resolve that evil will not stand.
When God justifies us, he charges our sins to Jesus and He credits the righteousness of Jesus to us. We aren't justified by our performance, rather by faith, the perfect righteousness of Jesus becomes ours.
God could, if he chose, do all things by himself. But in His infinite wisdom, He chooses to work through vessels of clay to accomplish His ends in the world.
When we see Jesus as He really is, the Sovereign Lord of creation changes everything about our lives. There is no part of life that He is not sovereign over.
In the Bible we see God working through people in various ways and at various times. That did not stop when the Bible was complete. The Lord is still working today, and you are a part of it!
It is God’s desire to empower His people to be his witnesses throughout the world. He has done so, and continues to do so.
The early church was a ragtag group of disciples with little strengthuntil the Holy Spirit descended upon them in power!
Jesus Christ came to fulfill all of the promises that were delivered by the Old Testament Prophets. In Him, every promise is Yes and Amen.
Jesus Christ came to give us abundant life in the Spirit, to restore to us the life that was lost in Adam.
The Bible presents us with the truth about Jesus Christ and his salvation. Will you choose to trust Him, or will you reject Him?
The Holy Spirit not only supports believers by being with us and strengthening us. He also lives inside of every Christian and gives life to our souls.
We receive salvation by faith in Jesus Christ alone, but the faith we need to believe is itself a gift from God given by the Holy Spirit. He applies salvation to us.
If Jesus were not God, He would not be able to tell His disciples, If you have seen me you have seen the Father.
Part of the glory of Christ is that He has life in Himself which the Father granted to Him.
Jesus finished His work of salvation on the cross. But now He continues to work making intercession for His people.
One of our greatest needs is an Advocate with God the Father in Heaven. That is what Jesus is for all who belong to Him.
When the trumpet sounds, the dead in Christ will rise and be changed, in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, and we who trust in Him shall be like Him.
Our bodies matter to God. And He will not allow them to stay in the grave forever. Soon, everyone will rise on Judgment Day.
Because Christ died and rose again, we who are united to Him by faith will also rise from the grave to be in the presence of God.
The cross of Christ is the proof of God’s love toward sinners. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
We are forgiven by Christ’s death on the cross because the punishment for sin fell on Him instead of us. Therefore, at the cross, God’s forgiveness is released toward us.
On the cross, Jesus bore the sins of the world. The cross shows us both the heinousness of sin and the love of God.
We cannot separate Christ’s Lordship from His salvation of us. It is a fundamental misunderstanding of the gospel to think that you can receive what Jesus offers and at the same time resist what He commands.
The multiple theophanies that occurred in the Old Testament were pointing forward to a time when the Lord himself would come in human flesh.
God took the initiative in sending Christ to be born of the virgin Mary. He did not wait for a Deliverer to arise from us, He came to us in the person of Jesus.
Being faithful to God does not necessarily mean that we must sacrifice success in this world.
As Christians, we are in the world, but our citizenship is in Heaven. What does it mean to be a part of two kingdoms?
The prophet Ezekiel was a man who had many hopes and dreams just like us. But his dreams were shattered. Where do we turn when that happens to us?
Jesus suffered, and he is called a man of sorrows. What a comfort it is to know that the Lord himself understands what it means to feel sadness and pain, and that He is with us in our sorrow.
Your difficulties break your heart, and they cause you to cry out to God. It is good to know that the tears of God's people are precious to Him.
The Book of Lamentations is a book of sorrow. Thank God that the Bible speaks to us in our pain.
When Nicodemus came to Jesus, Jesus told him that he needed to be born again. What does that mean?
After King David sinned, he asked God to create in him a clean heart. This should be our prayer as well.
Salvation in Christ is not something we must work to attain. It is a free gift, given by the Lord himself to unworthy sinners.
The Lord calls His servants to be humble and serve others. We are not to trample on the weak but to help them.
God’s servants do not serve themselves, but rather Him. They are not called to fame or fortune, but to do their Master’s will.
The holiness of God humbles us in every way. When we come to understand it, even in small measure, it causes us to have humility.
God is holy. It is an essential element of His nature. In order to see God rightly, we must see Him as holy.
In Isaiah’s day, the people had started to treat the worship of God in a very casual way. But God does not want rote worship, rather, He wants our whole heart.
Idolatry is powerfully attractive, but at the same time it is deeply offensive to God. How should we treat the idols of our hearts?
During the time of the judges in Israel, the people had lost the knowledge of God and His wondrous works. But thankfully, that knowledge would eventually be restored.
The Gospel is free, but there is a cost to follow Jesus. We are called to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him.
It's easy for us to think that our comfort is the thing that matters most. But God has not called us to a life of convenience; Christ died for us that we should no longer live for ourselves, but go out and do His will.
God calls His people to be brave and to trust Him. When we don’t, the result is never good.
One of the greatest problems plaguing mankind is the guilt of our sin. But in Christ, our guilt is removed and our souls are cleansed.
On the Day of Atonement, the scapegoat carried the sins of the people on itself. Christ was a scapegoat for us as well.
If you find yourself in a court of law, you'll need an attorney to speak on your behalf. In the Old Testament, the priests represented the people. But if you come to Jesus in faith, He is your High Priest and He interceeds for you.
The sacrifices of the Old Testament were types and shadows of a much greater sacrifice which was to come. The sacrifice of Christ Himself.
Feeling sorry isn’t enough to atone for sin. What is needed is a payment that only Christ can provide.
The purpose of God’s law was not to show us how we may climb to heaven. Rather, it is the pattern that God set forth that we may know what righteousness looks like.
The 10 Commandments show us God’s holy and righteous standard for our lives. To follow them is to live a godly life.