Category Study

The DOOR was shut, Matthew 25:10

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In Matthew 25:10, within the parable of the ten virgins, Jesus declares, “And while they were going to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut.” This vivid imagery underscores a sobering truth: opportunities for salvation and readiness have limits. The shutting of the door represents finality, a point of no return in our spiritual journey. How, then, is this door shut in practical application? Scripture reveals four key ways that the door becomes shut.

First, death is a closed door. Hebrews 9:27 states, “It is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.” Life is the season for repentance and faith, but death ends that opportunity, once life ends, the opportunity for repentance ceases. The parable’s foolish virgins, unprepared when the bridegroom arrived, mirror those who delay repentance, assuming time remains. Death seals our choices, shutting the door to further chances to accept God’s grace by obeying the gospel. This urges us to live ready, embracing salvation now, as tomorrow is not promised (2 Corinthians 6:2). Like the foolish virgins who scrambled too late to prepare, those who postpone turning to Christ risk facing eternity unprepared. This reality presses us to act now, (by obeying the gospel through baptism by through faith, Colossians 2:11-12) because no one knows their final hour (James 4:14). Death’s finality demands we live ready.

Second, obstinance toward the Holy Spirit shuts the door. Acts 7:51 warns against resisting the Spirit, who convicts us of sin and guides us to truth (John 16:8). Rejecting the revealed Word (God’s plan for salvation through Christ and call to godliness) hardens the heart. Like Pharaoh, who ignored God’s signs (Exodus 8:15), persistent refusal to heed Scripture’s clear path (John 3:16; Acts 2:38) closes the door to grace. Jesus warned of blasphemy against the Spirit as an unforgivable sin (Matthew 12:31-32), reflecting a willful, persistent refusal to accept God’s way. The foolish virgins’ lack of oil mirrors this neglect, choosing self-reliance over surrender. The foolish virgins’ neglect of oil symbolizes this willful unpreparedness, choosing self over surrender to God’s Spirit. To keep the door open, we must heed the Spirit’s prompting today through the revealed word in scripture.

Third, refusing to open the door Jesus knocks upon seals our exclusion. Revelation 3:20 declares, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in.” Salvation is a personal choice; Jesus invites, but we must respond. Ignoring His call (through apathy, pride, or worldly distractions) leaves us outside the feast, as the virgins discovered. Scripture laments those who reject God’s invitation (Luke 14:24), underscoring that an unopened heart shuts the door to eternal life. There are several examples of those who turned away from Jesus. The Rich Young Ruler (Matthew 19:16-22). Some of Jesus’ Disciples (John 6:60-66). Answering Jesus now ensures entry.

Fourth, Christ’s return will shut the door finally for all. Matthew 25:31-46 describes the judgment day, when Christ separates the ready from the unprepared. The bridegroom’s arrival in the parable foreshadows this moment, when “the Son of Man comes” unexpectedly (Matthew 24:44). No further chances remain; every soul will account for their faith and deeds (2 Corinthians 5:10). As God shut the ark’s door before the flood (Genesis 7:16), Christ’s return will close salvation’s offer, finalizing destinies. On that day, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” (2Peter 3:10). This compels us to live in readiness, clothed in Christ (Galatians 3:27), faith and obedience.

Matthew 25:10 is a call to vigilance. Death’s certainty, the Spirit’s voice, Jesus’ knock, and Christ’s return all remind us: the door is open now, but not forever. Like the wise virgins, we must prepare (embracing salvation, yielding to God’s Spirit, welcoming Christ, and awaiting His return). Let us act before the door is shut, securing our place at the eternal feast.

Evidence for our faith: conversion of Skeptics

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Skeptics Turned Believers

The resurrection of Jesus Christ stands as a pivotal claim of Christianity, and its credibility is bolstered by the transformations of skeptics like Simon Greenleaf and Frank Morison, who, through rigorous examination of evidence, became convinced of its truth. These non-biblical figures—initially doubters—offer compelling, logical arguments rooted in historical and legal scrutiny, making their conclusions a powerful case for the resurrection.

Simon Greenleaf, a 19th-century Harvard law professor and co-founder of its law school, was a skeptic of Christianity. Known for his work A Treatise on the Law of Evidence, Greenleaf applied legal standards to the Gospel accounts. He argued that the testimonies of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John (e.g., Matthew 28:1-10, John 20:1-18) hold up as credible eyewitness reports. In his book The Testimony of the Evangelists (1874), Greenleaf noted the consistency of the resurrection narratives despite minor variations, a hallmark of authentic, uncoached testimony. He emphasized that the disciples’ willingness to die for their claims, as tradition records (e.g., Peter’s crucifixion), defies the behavior of liars protecting a hoax. Greenleaf concluded that the resurrection met the burden of proof beyond reasonable doubt, converting him from skeptic to believer.

Similarly, Frank Morison, a 20th-century British journalist, set out to disprove the resurrection in his book Who Moved the Stone? (1930). Initially viewing the story as myth, Morison approached it with a detective’s mindset, analyzing historical context and psychological plausibility. He found the empty tomb (Matthew 28:11-15) particularly persuasive—Roman and Jewish authorities, with every incentive to produce Jesus’ body, failed to do so. Morison also grappled with the transformation of the disciples, from despairing cowards (John 20:19) to bold proclaimers (Acts 2:14-36), a shift he deemed inexplicable without a real event. The sudden conversion of Paul, a former persecutor (Acts 9:1-19), further convinced Morison that only a tangible encounter with the risen Christ could account for such a reversal. His investigation led him to faith.

Both men highlight the resurrection’s evidential strength outside biblical bias. Greenleaf’s legal lens underscores the reliability of the Gospel witnesses, while Morison’s historical probe reveals the improbability of alternative explanations (like theft or hallucination) given the cultural and political pressures of the time. The rapid spread of Christianity, despite persecution, aligns with their findings: a fabricated tale wouldn’t inspire such conviction. Paul’s own testimony in 1 Corinthians 15:3-8, listing over 500 witnesses, adds weight, as Greenleaf and Morison noted its early circulation, too soon for legend to distort fact.

These skeptics-turned-believers demonstrate that the resurrection withstands intellectual scrutiny. Their journeys from doubt to conviction rest on evidence (eyewitness accounts, an empty tomb, and transformed lives) that defies dismissal.

Agape

spencer

Calling on the name of the Lord: What is it really?

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Calling on the name of the Lord:

Prayer or obedience?

Acts 22:16 (KJV) states:

“And now why tarriest thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”

This verse records Ananias’ instructions to Saul (later Paul) regarding his conversion. To understand what it means to “call on the name of the Lord,” we must look at how the Bible defines and uses this phrase.

1. Calling on the Name of the Lord Involves Obedience

Acts 22:16 ties “calling on the name of the Lord” directly to baptism, which is the moment when Saul’s sins were washed away. This aligns with Jesus’ own words in Mark 16:16:

“He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.”

Calling on the name of the Lord, then, is not merely a verbal plea but involves obedient action. This is further clarified by Romans 10:13-14:

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?”

Paul, writing later, shows that calling on the Lord’s name requires hearing the gospel, believing, and responding in obedience.

2. Calling on the Name of the Lord Is Not Just Prayer

Some assume that calling on the Lord’s name is merely saying a prayer for salvation, but Scripture does not support this idea. Consider Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:21:

“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.”

Merely addressing Jesus as Lord does not save—doing His will does. This is consistent with Acts 22:16, where Paul had already been praying (Acts 9:11), yet he still needed to be baptized to wash away his sins.

3. Biblical Examples of Calling on the Name of the Lord

The phrase “call on the name of the Lord” is used throughout Scripture in connection with worship and obedience.

• Genesis 4:26 – “Then began men to call upon the name of the LORD.” This refers to worship and devotion to God.

• Joel 2:32 (quoted in Acts 2:21) – “Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered.” This was fulfilled in Acts 2, where Peter preached that repentance and baptism in Jesus’ name were necessary for salvation (Acts 2:38).

In Acts 2, the people called upon the Lord by obeying Peter’s command to repent and be baptized. This directly parallels Acts 22:16, where Paul was instructed to do the same.

So what now?

To “call on the name of the Lord” is to appeal to Him for salvation by faithful obedience to His commands. Acts 22:16 shows that Saul (Paul) did this when he was baptized, at which point his sins were washed away. This is consistent with how the phrase is used throughout the Bible—faith in action, not merely words.

Spencer

Franklin & Juniper St

church of Christ

Borger, Tx

The Necessity of Hearing and Obeying the Written Word of God

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The Bible is God’s communication to us, written to guide, instruct, and equip His people. In Ephesians 3:1-5, Paul reminds Christians that God revealed His mystery to the Apostles and prophets by the Holy Spirit, ensuring that all can now understand it through what has been written. This truth highlights the sufficiency and authority of Scripture for every generation.

It was Written for Us Today: No Continuing Revelation

Paul’s words affirm that the Scriptures are complete. In Ephesians 3:3-5, he explains that the mystery of Christ has been fully revealed and recorded for our understanding. This aligns with Jude 3, which tells us the faith was once delivered to the saints. There is no need for additional revelations. Galatians 1:8-9 warns against anyone who would add to or alter the gospel, emphasizing that God’s Word is final and unchanging. Likewise, 2 Peter 1:3 assures us that God has given us everything necessary for life and godliness through His Word. Scripture alone contains the truth we need to live faithfully (2Tim 3:15-17).

It was written to be obeyed

Jesus asked, “Why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46). His question emphasizes the necessity of obeying His commands. The written Word is not merely for information but for transformation and obedience. Paul reinforced this in 2 Thessalonians 3:14, urging discipline for those who disregard the apostles’ writings. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:20) reminds us to observe all Christ has commanded, and John 12:48 warns that His Word will be the standard by which we are judged.

It was Revealed to a Select Few, Confirmed by Miracles and Signs

Scripture’s authority is rooted in its divine inspiration. As Paul explains in Ephesians 3:5, the Holy Spirit revealed God’s truth to him and other select Apostles and prophets. Miracles and signs confirmed their message (Mark 16:20). Paul highlights these “signs of an apostle” in 2 Corinthians 12:12, showing their role in validating God’s Word. However, these miraculous gifts ceased with the completion of divine revelation (1 Corinthians 13:8-10), leaving us the written Word as the enduring foundation of faith.

Diligence is Required to Study and Apply the Word

Understanding God’s will requires effort. Paul instructs Timothy to “study (give diligence) to shew thyself approved unto God” (2 Timothy 2:15). The Bereans, commended in Acts 17:11, exemplify this diligence by examining the Scriptures daily. Abiding in the doctrine of Christ, as emphasized in 2 John 1:9, is essential for fellowship with God.

The Bible is God’s sufficient and final revelation. Let us treasure it, study it, and obey its commands to walk in His will and receive eternal life.

“Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ).” (Eph 3:4)

Agape, Spencer

to what shall we compare the WORD?

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The Bible is filled with powerful imagery to describe the Word of God, using metaphors that reflect its dynamic and life-altering nature. From being a weapon in spiritual warfare to our daily spiritual sustenance, the scriptures portray the Word as essential for life, growth, and transformation.

1. The Word as a Weapon: Sword and Hammer

The Word of God is often depicted as a tool of immense power, capable of cutting through deception and breaking down barriers. In Ephesians 6:17, the Apostle Paul describes the Word as “the sword of the Spirit,” a crucial part of the armor of God. This sword is not just any weapon but one that can pierce deeply, exposing the truth and confronting the lies and temptations of the enemy.

Similarly, Hebrews 4:12 emphasizes that “the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword,” underscoring its ability to discern “the thoughts and intents of the heart.” This sharpness reflects the way God’s Word penetrates to the deepest levels of human existence, challenging us, revealing sin, and guiding us toward righteousness.

In Jeremiah 23:29, God says, “Is not my word like a fire? saith the Lord; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces?” The image of a hammer conveys the sheer strength of the Word, which can break through even the hardest heart, bringing about conviction, repentance, and transformation.

2. The Word as Our Daily Food: Bread, Milk, Meat, & Honey

The Bible also presents the Word of God as essential nourishment for our spiritual lives. In Matthew 4:4, Jesus declares, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” Here, the Word is compared to bread, the basic sustenance for life. Just as physical bread nourishes the body, the Word of God nourishes the soul, giving us the strength we need to grow and thrive spiritually.

For those new in their faith, the Bible compares the Word to milk. 1 Peter 2:2 encourages believers, “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.” Just as infants need milk to grow strong and healthy, new believers need the simple truths of the Word to mature in their faith.

As we grow, the Bible encourages us to go beyond the milk of the Word to the deeper, richer truths that are compared to meat. Hebrews 5:14 says, “Strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age.” This metaphor emphasizes that the Word is not only for the spiritual beginner but also for the mature believer seeking deeper spiritual understanding.

In Psalm 19:10, the Word of God is described as “sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.” Honey represents sweetness and pleasure, highlighting how the Word brings delight, satisfaction, and joy to those who meditate on it and apply its teachings.

3. The Word as Life-Giving Rain and Snow

The Bible uses natural cycles like rain and snow to symbolize the life-giving impact of God’s Word. In Isaiah 55:10-11, God compares His Word to rain and snow that water the earth and make it fruitful: “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please.” Just as rain and snow nourish the ground, causing plants to grow and produce fruit, the Word of God accomplishes its purpose, bringing growth and fruitfulness to our spiritual lives.

4. The Word as Light in Darkness

Finally, the Word of God is described as light, providing guidance and clarity in a dark world. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Without the Word, we would stumble in spiritual darkness, unable to see the right way forward. The Word reveals the truth, showing us the path of righteousness and helping us navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and discernment.

The Word of God is a powerful weapon, an essential source of nourishment, a life-giving force, and a guiding light. Its metaphors reflect its multifaceted role as it confronts, sustains, renews, and leads us closer to God. As we embrace the Word, we experience its transforming power and its ability to equip us for every good work.

Agape

spencer

Plea for Pure Christianity

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“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” (Colossians 3:17).

(by Jere E. Frost, via “According To The Pattern”, Medina, TN, 04/01/1990)

WE BELIEVE the Bible to be the inspired word of God, a perfect and sufficient guide (2 Timothy 3:16, 17). It does not incidentally contain some things which we teach — it is the alpha and omega of our faith and practice, and we dare not go beyond it (2 John 9).

WE COME to you with no denominational plan seeking your favor, but only in the name of Christ, desiring to help you find the truth, anxious that you obey all of God’s commandments. The obedient have a right to the tree of life and may enter in through the gates into the city (Revelation 22:14). But those who merely cry, “Lord, Lord,” shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 7:21).

WE SUBMIT to the matchless authority of Christ, heeding the faultless message that He and his inspired servants taught (Hebrews 2:3). His word produces faith, and faith in Him as the Son of God is the foundation of hope (Hebrews 11:1; John 8:24). Every person must repent, repentance being required of all and death being held forth as the wage of refusal (Acts 17:30; Luke 13:3). Confession of faith in Christ is unto salvation, and upon such a confession one may be baptized (Romans 10:10; Acts 8:37). Baptism was commanded by Christ Himself (Mark 16:16), puts one into Christ (Galatians 3:27) where all spiritual blessings abound (Ephesians 1:3), and is for the remission of our sins and the salvation of our souls (Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21). Who dares refuse it? Faithfulness unto life’s end is promised a rich heavenly reward (Revelation 2:10).

WE PRAY for unity among all professed believers, for Christ so prayed (John 17:20-23). Paul besought the Corinthians to be “of the same mind” and to “speak the same things.” (1 Corinthians 1:10). Since human wisdom is the cause of (not the cure for) division, we must discard and abandon it in order to be true to any prayer for unity. A perfect and God-given platform for genuine unity is set forth in Ephesians 4:3-6. This is the basis for spiritual harmony and lasting peace with God. Consider: One God (unity in worship), one Lord, Jesus Christ (unity in authority), one Spirit (unity in life), one faith (unity in doctrine), one body, the church (unity in organization), one baptism (unity in practice), and one hope (unity in desire and expectation).

WE REFUSE to sectarianize ourselves by wearing man-made religious names; they are not only unauthorized, but actually foment division. We are to be Christians, nothing more and nothing less, being completely satisfied and humbly grateful to be honored with the privilege of wearing Christ’s name (1 Peter 4:16). God has placed His name above every name, and the disciples wore it (Philippians 2:9; Acts 11:26). The body (church) of Christ also wears His name, preferring none other, and thus the New Testament speaks of “the churches of Christ” (Romans 16:16).

WE ENDEAVOR to speak where the Bible speaks, and to be silent where it is silent. Christians have no creed but Christ, are to uphold no name but the divine, and have no plea but the gospel. We should mutually seek to establish and maintain unity in essentials, liberty in opinions, and love in all things.

WE INVITE you, most sincerely, to come and study the Bible with us – pure Christianity is wonderful! Embrace it! Be just a Christian!

Agape

Hear Him

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In a world filled with a myriad of voices, opinions, and influences, it can be challenging to discern the truth. As Christians, we are to hear and follow the voice of Jesus above all others. The Bible provides the clear words of Jesus and how we should prioritize hearing Him over other voices that compete for our attention. Let’s explore why it’s essential to hear Jesus and how we can overcome the distractions that often lead us away from His teachings.

Listening to Self.
In our modern culture, self-reliance and personal wisdom are often exalted. We’re told to “trust our gut” and “follow our hearts.” However, the Bible warns against leaning on our own understanding. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

    Imagine a ship’s captain in the middle of the ocean who ignores his navigational charts and instruments, relying solely on his instincts. Despite his confidence, he quickly becomes lost, unable to find his way through the vast and treacherous waters. In the same way, when we rely solely on our own understanding and desires, we can easily lose our way spiritually.

    Our hearts can be deceptive, leading us into paths that seem right but ultimately end in destruction. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it” (Jeremiah 17:9)? Instead of placing our trust in ourselves, we are urged to submit to God and trust in His wisdom. When we choose to hear Jesus, we are placing our confidence in the One who knows all, sees all, and loves us all. By aligning our thoughts with His teachings, we find guidance and direction that are far beyond our limited human understanding.

    Listening to Relationships Like Family & Friends.
    Family and friends often have a significant influence on our lives. While these relationships are important, they must not take precedence over our relationship with Christ. In Matthew 10:37, Jesus makes a bold statement: “Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.”

      This scripture isn’t a call to neglect our loved ones but rather a reminder to keep Jesus as our primary focus. When we elevate the opinions, traditions, and desires of others above the teachings of Christ, we risk compromising our faith. When we prioritize the voices of our loved ones over God’s Word, we become confused and unfocused in our walk with Christ

      Our love for Jesus should surpass all other affections, ensuring that His voice is the loudest in our lives. By hearing Jesus first, we can love and serve our families better, rooted in the truth of the Gospel.

      Listening to Authority Figures Without Verification.
      We live in a world where authority figures—be they religious leaders, politicians, or cultural icons—can significantly shape our beliefs. However, it’s crucial to remember that no human authority is infallible. Acts 17:11 praises the Bereans for their diligence in verifying Paul’s teachings: “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”

        This passage encourages us to be discerning listeners. We should respect authority but also verify their words against the ultimate authority—the Word of God. Hearing Jesus requires us to examine everything through the lens of Scripture, ensuring that we remain grounded in truth (see 1John 4:1; 1Thess 5:21).

        Listening to Evil Spirits, Tarot Cards, Mediums, Psychics, and Astrology.
        In a quest for guidance and answers, some people turn to supernatural sources like tarot cards, mediums, psychics, and astrology. However, the Bible explicitly warns against such practices. Isaiah 8:19-20 says, “And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”

          Imagine a traveler, seeking guidance, consults a broken compass, believing it will lead them to their destination. Instead, it leads them further into danger. When we turn to tarot cards, psychics, or astrology, we are like that traveler, misguided and led astray. These sources cannot truly communicate with us or guide us because they are not from God.

          These practices are dangerous because they open the door to deception and spiritual harm. Instead of seeking answers from these sources, we are called to seek God directly. Jesus is the ultimate source of truth, and when we hear Him, we receive the guidance and wisdom that leads to life.

          Hearing Jesus.
          Amidst all these competing voices, God’s command is clear: we must hear Jesus. In Matthew 17:5, during the Transfiguration, God the Father declares, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him!” This directive emphasizes the authority and importance of Jesus’ teachings. When we listen to Jesus, we are hearing the voice of God Himself.

            Jesus affirms this in John 14:6, where He states, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” By hearing and following Jesus, we find the true path to salvation and eternal life. His voice leads us to the Father, guiding us through the complexities of life with divine wisdom and love. We hear Jesus through the words that have been recorded for us in the New Testament. “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day” (John 12:48; cf. John 20:30-31).

            Hearing Jesus above all others is not just a command; it is a necessity for every believer. By prioritizing His voice, we can navigate the challenges of life with clarity, purpose, and peace. Let us commit to tuning our ears to His teachings, allowing His words to shape our hearts and guide our steps.

            “If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord”

            (1Corinthians 14:37).

            Agape,
            spencer

            Do we TRUST Jesus?

            The Preacher 1 Comment

            “But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house.” (Mark 6:4).

            In Mark chapter six we see several scenes of varying levels of faith. Part of faith involves trust.

            Jesus Rejected in Nazareth                               (Mark 6:1-6)

            Sending Out the Twelve Apostles                    (Mark 6:7-13)

            Herod’s Perplexity about Jesus                        (Mark 6:14-16)

            John the Baptist Beheaded                               (Mark 6:17-29)

            Feeding the Five Thousand                             (Mark 6:30-44)

            Jesus Walks on Water                                      (Mark 6:45-52)

            Healing in Gennesaret                                     (Mark 6:53-56)

            Mark’s gospel may be the shortest of the four, but what it contains is of great help to us in our faith.

            Let us take a glimpse at these scenes of trust.

            In the first scene we find Jesus teaching in His own country and among His own people. Although many were astonished at His teaching, His wisdom, and His mighty works, they were offended at Him. His own people rejected Him. Now that’s astonishing!

            “But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house. And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching” (Mark 6:4-6).

            The next 3 scenes show differing levels of faith during times of uncertainty. The 12 apostles being sent out to preach, “And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse” (v8). Then we see Herod’s perplexity about the identity Jesus, (14-17). The third is in the events leading to the death of John the baptizer at the birthday banquet for Herod, (18-29). From these we see faith, uncertain faith, and great faith.

            Following these we come to another kind of banquet called the feeding of the 5,000 (30-44). This began with banquet of spiritual food because of the compassion of Jesus. Faith involves knowledge. Then Jesus is urged to send them away to go find physical food. He tells the 12, “Give ye them to eat.” Here we see another side of their faith when they say, “Shall we go and buy two hundred pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat?” Remember, they had just returned excitedly from preaching without any provisions.

            The last scenes of faith are times of trouble. One a storm, the last the sick of Gennesaret (45-56; cf Matt 14:27-33). In the storm, after Jesus had sent the 12 away in boats, He comes to them walking on the water. It’s here that Peter wants confirmation by being allowed to walk on the water also. Peter indeed is able to walk on the water, but places his eyes on the storm, starts to fear, and begins to sink. “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?”

            When they arrive at the shore we see an exact opposite response from the first of this chapter. “And when they were come out of the ship, straightway they knew him, And ran through that whole region round about, and began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where they heard he was. And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: and as many as touched him were made whole.”

            Agape,

            Spencer

            This is part 6 of a series called Preaching through Mark.

            What is a DEVO book really?

            The Preacher 1 Comment

            What’s a DEVO book? DEVO is short for “DEVOTIONAL.”

            A devotional book is a text, often religious in nature, designed to inspire and guide individuals in their spiritual practices. These books typically contain daily readings, reflections, prayers, or meditations aimed at fostering a deeper connection with one’s faith or spiritual beliefs. They can cover a wide range of topics, from personal growth and introspection to theological teachings and biblical passages.

            While devotional books can be valuable tools for spiritual growth and contemplation, they can also potentially lead individuals into a false sense of godliness or spirituality for several reasons:

            One. Verse. Every. Day.

            What’s wrong with reading a DEVO?

            DEVO’s…

            They DON’T TEACH the Whole Bible, and often Don’t teach it accurately. It’s really just a commentary of man on one or a few verses.

            Surface-Level Engagement: Some devotional books offer quick, easily digestible readings that may encourage a superficial understanding of faith or spirituality. Readers may mistake this cursory engagement for genuine spiritual depth.

            Acts 20:27 KJV. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.

            They’re usually full of EMOTIONALISM without the whole truth. They often have highly charged stories that can make one believe something that’s not true.

            Emotional Appeal: Devotional books often appeal to readers’ emotions, offering comforting words or inspiring stories. While emotional resonance can be a powerful aspect of spiritual experience, it can also lead individuals to prioritize feelings over critical thinking or authentic spiritual growth.

            Romans 10:2 KJV. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.

            They VIOLATE basic Bible authority by not handling the word correctly. They often ignore who’s speaking, who’s being spoken to, and ignore the covenant that is in place.

            2 Timothy 2:15 KJV. Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

            Lack of Covenant context: Many devotional books are written from a particular Old Covenant, potentially limiting readers’ exposure to the New Testament covenant. This lack of diversity can reinforce existing biases and prevent individuals from engaging with more accurate and applicable viewpoints.

            Hebrews 8:13 In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.

            They’re usually OUT OF CONTEXT Joel Osteen style of reading the Bible. Not everything in the Bible is written about you. Everything in the Bible is for us, but not necessarily about us.

            For example, do we need to do animal sacrifices? Nope! Look at this verse. Are we to continue to make animal sacrifices now that Christ has sacricfied Himself?

            Psalm 66:15 KJV. I will offer unto thee burnt sacrifices of fatlings, with the incense of rams; I will offer bullocks with goats. Selah.

            Hebrews 10:11 And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:

            There are 31,102 verses in the Bible. At that pace of One. Verse. Every. Day. It would take 85 years to read through the Bible.

            I don’t have that kind of time left.

            Agape,

            Spencer

            Here is a link to printable bookmarks to help you read through the bible in an organized fashion.

            Daily Bible Bite; Prayer

            The Preacher Leave a comment

            Psalm 54

            This is David’s prayer when the Ziphites revealed to king Saul his location (1Sam 26).

            As a matter of fact, many of the Psalms of David are his personal written prayers.

            This got me thinking about how helpful it might be to us if we made a habit of writing out our prayers.

            David’s Psalms are examples of

            Praise.

            Requests for forgiveness.

            Asking God to fight for him.

            Yearning to worship God.

            Prayer is a spiritual blessing for the Saints.

            Let us use this privilege without neglect.

            1 Thessalonians 5:17 “PRAY without ceasing.”