(Excerpt from my book Authority) Scripture was never intended to be the subject purely of theological argument or critical analysis, preserved in the formalin of religion, and dissected like a laboratory rat. No! Its purpose is to change lives by revealing the story and fellowship of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, and inviting us to belong. […]
The Apostle Paul and his companions were flummoxed. They’d tried to preach in Asia but the Holy Spirit said, ‘No!’ Then they tried Bithinya, and the Spirit said, ‘Nyet.’ Scratching their heads, they went down to Troas to await further instructions. That night Paul dreamed of the ‘man of Macedonia’ begging, ‘Come and help us.’ Excited to have direction at […]
Jesus said he will build his church. So when people want to remove the word, what does that imply? Are we in danger of losing our identity? One day, Jesus asked Peter who he was. Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:16). The Lord’s reply is foundational to our faith, but needs […]
Are you being encouraged to fast? If so, make sure it’s for the right reasons. The Puzzles Jesus fasted, but never taught his disciples to. Why not? Jesus said to fast in secret, but later the church fasted together. Why? There’s no teaching on it in the epistles. Why not? The Pithy Parables When John the Baptist’s disciples asked Jesus, […]
1 Corinthians 14:26 says, “When you come together, everyone has a hymn, a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation.” Verse 31: “For you can all prophesy…” But when we come together, we sing rehearsed songs, listen to a prepared message, and drink coffee. When do we participate? If we come “for” the worship, the word, or […]
1) Are you being sifted? Jesus said to Peter, “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Jesus knew Peter would deny him. He also knew he would return, because he’d prayed for him. Peter’s denial […]
Cleopas and his friend couldn’t They walked with Jesus for half a day, but didn’t recognize him. After all, he was dead. Jesus even explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. Despite their hearts burning within them, they still didn’t understand. Over the evening meal, Jesus gave thanks, broke bread, and gave it to them. […]
I feel an increasing urgency to share Jesus. Time is short. Some years ago, a pastor in Havana, Cuba, invited me and a Honduran evangelist to dinner. In their culture, many have servants. When their maid brought our first course, the evangelist asked her, “What’s your name?” “Maria.” “Maria, do you know Jesus?” “No.” “Would you like to?” “Yes.” And […]
Psalm 112 speaks of a man whose heart is secure. “He will have no fear of bad news.” The reason may surprise you, for there’s a test. Will you pass? Our world is plagued with bad news—violence, war, famine, lockdowns, and bankruptcy. It’s hard not to be dragged down with disappointment, worry, or fear. Fear is faith in a bad […]
Two men guarded a modern building inside its glass entrance. The taller stood on a large, square mat—the shorter man on a smaller one. The mats overlapped where they touched. In my dream, the short man said, “How can you straighten the mat while you’re standing on it?” I have been puzzling over why intelligent people can be so deceived. […]