Christians are hidden with Christ in God (the triple-protection guarantee)

Christians are hidden with Christ in God

What does it mean to be hidden with Christ in God? Let’s examine this passage in Colossians. Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you Continue reading Christians are hidden with Christ in God (the triple-protection guarantee)

Does Isaiah 64:6 mean God never accepts our righteous deeds?

Contrast between self-righteous deeds done for self-glorification and good deeds done out of genuine faith and humility

It is bad theology and bad exegeses to assume the righteous deeds alluded to in Isaiah 64:6 are the full story for Christians. Let’s look at the context of this verse and compare with other verses. (Isaiah 64:5-6 NLT) This verse highlights the concept of human sinfulness and the inadequacy of human efforts to attain righteousness before God. Here are Continue reading Does Isaiah 64:6 mean God never accepts our righteous deeds?

Water Baptism Symbolizes Salvation

Water baptism symbolizes our death to sin, the washing away of our transgressions, and our resurrection to new life in Jesus Christ

Water baptism symbolizes the moment of salvation; therefore, it is rich with symbolism that reflects key truths of the Christian faith. Let us delve into the significance of this act and its biblical foundations. Plunging Under Water: Symbolizes the Death Penalty for Sins When we are plunged under the water during baptism, it symbolizes the death penalty for our sins. Continue reading Water Baptism Symbolizes Salvation

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name

“Our father in heaven, hallowed be your name” a model for how believers are to approach God, not just in prayer but in every aspect of their lives, seeking to honor His name in all they do

The Lord’s Prayer, as recorded in Matthew 6:9-13, begins with the invocation, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.” This opening phrase is rich with theological significance and offers a profound entry point into understanding the nature of prayer, God’s character, and our relationship with Him. Let’s break down this phrase and connect it with Old Testament teachings, including Continue reading Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name

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 of required competencies to tailor the training and evaluate the candidates. But as I researched the subject and talked to Continue reading Essential Skills and Competencies for Leading a Small Group