The people we rub shoulders with often rub off on us, don't they? That's why we, as parents, tell our kids to be careful who they hang around, because we believe the old saying that 'you are who your friends are or you soon will be.' The same truth applies to our relationship with Christ. The more time we spend with Him daily.
During His brief years of ministry, Jesus was constantly surrounded by pseudo-disciples who followed Him for their own gain. But when they discovered that Jesus had certain expectations of them as well.
In his series 'The Beauty of the Bride,' Stephen unveils one of the most beautiful and dramatic truths found at the heart of the Gospel: Christianity is a wedding! Of all the descriptions God gives us in Scripture regarding the state of our relationship with Him, there is none so compelling and so convicting as this one. Stephen explains the ramifications of this truth both for our future and, more practically, for our present.
There is nothing righteous about Jonah's response to Nineveh's revival, but there is something very real about it. It strikes a chord in all of us. While we love the concept of God saving His enemies, we aren't so comfortable with Him saving ours.
There are two equally foolish errors that we as Christians often make. The first is running from God. The second is believing He won't come running after us!
The most astonishing thing about the Book of Jonah is not Jonah's hatred for Nineveh or his 3-day journey in the belly of a fish; it is the grace of God.
This lesson from Hebrews 11:3 emphasizes that God is the ultimate and original Hero of the faith. It affirms that the universe was created by God's word, not through visible processes or random chance. Faith in God as Creator provides answers to life’s deepest questions—origin, purpose, morality, and destiny. The lesson challenges believers to trust God's power, design, and sustaining Word, while rejecting the confusion and hopelessness of a godless worldview. Faith in the Creator offers clarity, purpose, and eternal hope.
This lesson from Luke 22:63-71 examines the unlawful trials of Jesus, exposing the corruption and injustice of the religious and legal systems. Despite facing false accusations, illegal proceedings, and physical abuse, Jesus remained composed, affirming His divine identity as the Son of God. His trials fulfilled God’s sovereign plan, highlighting His obedience and the immense cost of redemption for humanity. The lesson challenges believers to pursue justice, trust in God’s plan during unjust circumstances, and live in gratitude for the hope and victory found in Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection.
This lesson from Luke 22:31–38 highlights Jesus’ warnings and promises to Peter, teaching profound truths about spiritual dangers and growth. Jesus warns Peter of Satan's intent to "sift" him like wheat, illustrating the reality of spiritual attacks. However, He reassures Peter of His intercession, praying specifically for his faith to endure even through failure. Jesus emphasizes that failure is not the end, encouraging Peter to strengthen others after his repentance. The lesson also prepares believers for challenges, urging spiritual resilience through prayer, Scripture, and reliance on Christ, who continues to intercede for His followers.
This lesson from Revelation 9 describes the terrifying consequences of the fifth and sixth trumpet judgments. The release of demonic locusts from the Abyss torments unbelievers for five months, revealing the true nature of evil spirits. The sixth trumpet unleashes four fallen angels and a demonic army that kills a third of humanity. Despite these judgments, people refuse to repent, clinging to idolatry, immorality, and rebellion against God. The lesson warns of sin’s hardening effect and urges believers to trust in Christ’s mercy before judgment falls.
No one ever lives a life of holiness by accident. It happens on purpose. It comes through discipline and obedience to the Spirit of God, which is a daily, moment-by-moment battle. Are you in the fight?
