Faith and Works: Understanding Their Biblical Relationship

You are saved completely by faith alone, and now you get to wholeheartedly pursue good works as an outflow of your relationship with Him.

One of the big questions for many Bible students is how faith and works fit together in salvation. Some people think that since we are saved by faith alone, our actions (good works) don’t matter at all. This “hyper-grace” idea Continue reading Faith and Works: Understanding Their Biblical Relationship

What Does It Mean to Take the Name of the Lord in Vain?

A life honoring God leads to true contentment, but a vain, reckless life that dishonors God will end in disaster. Choose reverence over ruin. (Exodus 20:7)

Taking the name of the Lord in vain means using God’s name in a way that shows disrespect or a lack of reverence. This is clearly taught in the Bible. As Moses recorded in Leviticus 19:12, “Do not bring shame Continue reading What Does It Mean to Take the Name of the Lord in Vain?

The Welcoming Church: David Gives Pop Quizzes

David gives pop quizzes such as "What are three ways to succeed in Christian life? 1) Overcome your fears. 2) Be consistent. 3) Study the Bible."

For this episode of The Transforming Church, we catch up with David as he is giving pop quizzes to young people streaming out of the sanctuary after any service on any Sunday morning. He says he is having more fun Continue reading The Welcoming Church: David Gives Pop Quizzes

From everlasting to everlasting, God exists outside of time

As we meditate on God's eternal nature, let it inspire us to live with an eternal focus find comfort in His unchanging character, and continually offer our heartfelt worship and praise to the One who is from everlasting to everlasting.

The concept of God existing outside of time from everlasting to everlasting is an important theological truth with practical implications for our understanding of His nature and our relationship with Him. The Bible provides numerous passages that affirm God’s eternal Continue reading From everlasting to everlasting, God exists outside of time

Essential Skills and Competencies for Leading a Small Group

Small group of Christians meeting together for Bible study, fellowship, and mutual support.

This is an ongoing Bible study research project that started when I was challenged to help develop a class that trains group members to become group leaders. As I started to plan the study, I realized I needed a list Continue reading Essential Skills and Competencies for Leading a Small Group