This chapter has the parable of the sower; the purpose of parables; parable of light under a container; the parable of the growing seed; the parable of the mustard seed; the use of parables; and the calming of the storm.
Mark 4
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Author Archives: James M. Arlandson
Mark 3
Jesus heals a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath. He teaches and heals the multitudes by the lakeside. He chooses the Twelve. His family intends to take custody of him. The teachers of the law claim that he expels demons by Satan’s mastery. He warns them not to blaspheme the Spirit. He tells the crowd that the one who does the will of God is his brother, sister, and mother.
Mark 2
Jesus forgives and heals a paralytic, and the teachers of the law criticize him for his forgiving sins. He calls Levi. Jesus says that his own mission is to reach the unhealthy. People question him about fasting. Pharisees criticize Jesus because his disciples were plucking grain on the Sabbath.
Mark 1
In this Gospel, in the very beginning of Jesus’s ministry: John the Baptist is introduced; Jesus is baptized by John. Satan tempts Jesus. Jesus begins his Galilean ministry. He calls four fishermen: Peter, Andrew, James, and John. He expels an unclean spirit from a man. He heals Peter’s mother-in-law and many others and expels many demons. He goes on a preaching tour. He cleanses a leper with a command.
Matthew 28
In this final chapter, we see the resurrection of Jesus, the guards’ false report about a stolen body, and the Great Commission.
Matthew 27
In this chapter, Jesus is brought before Pilate. Judas hangs himself. Pilate questions Jesus. He is sentenced to die. Soldiers mock Jesus. He is crucified and dies. Holy people rise from their graves and visit Jerusalem. Jesus is buried. Jewish authorities place a guard at the tomb. Please see a table of events during Passion Week, at the end of this post.
Matthew 26
The Jerusalem authorities plot to kill Jesus. He is anointed at Bethany. Judas agrees to betray Jesus. The disciples prepare the Passover for them and him. He institutes the Last Supper and the New Covenant. He foretells Peter’s denial. He prays in Gethsemane. He is betrayed and arrested. He stands before the high priest and council. Peter denies Jesus. See the Table on Passion Week at the end of this post.
Matthew 25
In this chapter, Jesus continues his discourse about the Second Coming. He tells the Parable of the Ten Maidens, the Parable of the Talents, and the discourse on the Final Judgments (The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats).
Matthew 24
This chapter contains the famous Olivet discourse (1) about the destruction of the temple which Jesus said would happen in this (his) generation, and it did in A.D. 70; (2) and then the discourse is about the close out or wrap up of the entire age. Jesus refers to the flood of Noah to illustrate unprepared people. Also, two men are in a field, and one taken, the other left. Two women grind grain at a millstone; one taken, the other left. He also tells the Parable of the Faithful and Unfaithful Servant.
Matthew 23
In this chapter, Jesus says his disciples should not pursue titles. He pronounces seven woes on the teachers of the law and Pharisees. He then laments over Jerusalem. A table of events during Passion Week is again presented here, at the end.
Matthew 22
Jesus tells the polemical Parable of the Wedding Feast. Next, he answers the question: Should we pay taxes to Caesar? The Sadducees ask him about the resurrection. He affirms the final resurrection, and it is explored here. An expert in the law asks him which commandment is greatest. He straightens out the Pharisees on the greatness of the Son of David, because David, inspired by the Spirit, called him Lord. A table of the events during Passion Week is presented at the end.
Matthew 21
This chapter is very important (see table of events during Passion Week, at the end). The Messiah enters Jerusalem triumphantly; the crowds shout that he’s the son of David; Jesus cleanses the temple. He heals the lame and the blind; the children call him the son of David. In an action parable he curses a fig tree. The establishment fights back by questioning his authority. He tells two parables: Parable of the Two Sons and the Parable of the Tenants.
Matthew 20
Jesus tells the Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard. He foretells his death a third time. James’ and John’s mother requests that her two sons sit on the left and right of the Son of Man. Jesus tells them that this is his Father’s decision, and everyone in the kingdom must become servants.
Matthew 19
Jesus again teaches on divorce. He places his hands on little children and blesses them. A rich man approaches him and asks about inheriting eternal life. He walks away, and Jesus says it is difficult for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. He tells the twelve that they will sit on twelve thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. If a follower gives up all, then he will receive a hundredfold and inherit eternal life. His teaching on the end times is also looked at here.
Matthew 18
The disciples ask who the greatest is. The passage about cutting off hand or gouging out eye (so to speak) is included. The Parable of the Lost Sheep is told. If your brother sins against you seven times, forgive him seventy times (or seventy times seventy). Church discipline is taught in restoring someone. Binding and loosing is repeated here. Finally the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant is told. Update: I now cover the accusations of sexual abuse. Matthew 18:15-17 do not cover this, and I explain why.
Matthew 17
In this chapter, the Transfiguration happens; Jesus heals a boy having a demon; he foretells his death and resurrection; he pays the temple tax.
Matthew 16
Pharisees and Sadducees demand a sign from heaven. Jesus warns of the leaven of the Sadducees and Pharisees. Peter confesses Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and Jesus says Peter is blessed and grants him the keys of the kingdom. He seems to have the power to bind and loose. Jesus foretells his death and resurrection and urges disciples to pick up their cross and follow him. Another discussion of the end times, too.
Matthew 15
The teachers of the law and the Pharisees criticize the disciples for not washing before eating. Jesus sets them straight on the difference between tradition of the elders and the Word of God. It is what come out of the mouth, words—which are expressions of the heart—that defile a person. Jesus turns a Canaanite woman’s desperation into faith. Jesus then heals many. And he feeds four thousand men plus women and children.
Matthew 14
In this chapter: Death of John the Baptist. Jesus feeds the five thousand with five loaves and two fish. Jesus and Peter walk on water. Jesus heals the sick in Gennesaret.
Matthew 13
In this chapter: Parables of Sower (and its explanation), Weeds (Tares), Mustard Seed, and Leaven; parables are only for the crowds, to separate the discerning from the dull; Parables of Hidden Treasure, Pearl of Great Value, the Net, treasures old and new; finally, Jesus is rejected at Nazareth. A long discussion of the end times is also included here.
Matthew 12
Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath. He heals a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath. Jesus is God’s Chosen Servant. He warns against blasphemy of the Spirit. He says a tree is known by its fruit. He promises an evil generation the sign of his burial and resurrection. He explains how Satan counterattacks with seven more spirits. Finally, he declares that the ones who do his Father’s will are his mother and brothers.
Matthew 11
In this chapter, John the Baptist sits in Herod’s prison and sends disciples to ask Jesus if he is the Coming One. Jesus pronounces woe on unrepentant cities. He calls all those who work and are heavily burdened to come to him, and he will give them rest.
Matthew 10
Jesus sends out the twelve on a short-term mission trip, in preparation for life-long mission. Persecution will come because Jesus did not come to bring only peace, but he came to ply a (metaphorical) sword. In tense times, don’t fear the man who kills only the body but God who can destroy both body and soul in Gehenna. Don’t deny him but acknowledge him in public. People who welcome one of Jesus’s emissaries will receive a reward.
Matthew 9
Jesus forgives the sins of a paralytic and then heals him as proof that he has authority to forgive sins. Jesus calls Matthew to be a disciple. John’s disciples ask questions about fasting. A girl is restored to life, and a woman touches the tassels of his garment, to receive her healing. Jesus heals two blind men and delivers a mute man who was demonized. Jesus says the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.
Matthew 8
In this chapter, Jesus cleanses a leper; marvels at the faith of a centurion; heals Peter’s mother-in-law and then many others; tells two would-be disciples about the cost of discipleship (let the dead bury their dead); calms a storm; and delivers two Gadarene demoniacs.
Matthew 7
In this chapter, Jesus teaches us not to judge / condemn another person—no judgmentalism. He encourages kingdom citizens to ask, seek and knock. He teaches the Golden Rule. He tells his listeners to travel the restrictive path and enter through the narrow gate. He says to be fruit inspectors, because false prophets are coming. He announces that some will claim him to be Lord and do charismatic gifts, but he will tell them to depart from him, for he never knew them. He talks about two houses, one built on a strong foundation, and another built on sand.
Matthew 6
In this chapter, these topics are introduced: Giving to the needy without display; the Lord’s Model Prayer; fasting with the right attitude; laying up treasures in heaven; our light must shine. We cannot serve God and Mammon. We must not be anxious about the basics but seek God’s kingdom first.
Matthew 5
The first chapter in the Sermon on the Mount; the Beatitudes; we are salt and light. Christ came to fulfill the law. Avoid anger; avoid lust; divorce should be rare and only for one exception. Don’t swear oaths. Don’t follow ‘eye for an eye,’ but live a surrendered life. Love your enemies. Through most of those passages, Jesus presents his six antitheses: “You have heard it said … but I say to you.”
Matthew 4
In this chapter, Satan tempts Jesus, and the Lord passes the tests and tells him to go. Jesus leaves Nazareth behind and moves to Capernaum, where he begins his ministry. He calls his first disciples. In a summary passage, he is shown to speak to large crowds, heal all their diseases, and expel demons. His basic message is, “Repent! For the kingdom of heaven has come near!”
Matthew 3
John the Baptist prepares the way and calls people to repentance and to show deeds in keeping with repentance. He calls the Pharisees and Sadducees offspring of vipers. Jesus is baptized by John, and the heavenly Father proclaims that Jesus is his beloved Son in whom he is well pleased and delighted.
Matthew 2
In this chapter, the Magi or wise men visit the newborn king; Herod is alarmed and is told that the child was born in Bethlehem. The wise men find Jesus and offer him gifts. Then they were warned in a dream not to return to Herod. Joseph is warned in a dream to leave Bethlehem and go to Egypt. Herod kills the children in and around Bethlehem. After Herod died, Joseph is instructed in a dream to return to Israel. The family settles in Nazareth.
Matthew 1
In this chapter, the genealogy of Jesus Christ and his birth are told.
Are ‘Tongues’ the Sign of Baptism with Spirit in Acts?
What do five key passages in Acts say about prayer languages, commonly called ‘tongues,’ being the sign of the empowerment of the Spirit?
Jesus Turns a Gentile Mother’s Desperation into Faith
Jesus seemed to be “rude” to a Gentile (pagan, non-Jew, or foreign) woman, someone outside his outreach to Israel. Here’s an exegesis (close reading) that explains his reasons, in a little more detail, in his own cultural context.
“Everyone Is Pressed into” the Kingdom
Luke 16:16 has baffled many Bible interpreters. What does it mean in its own historical and textual context?
“The Kingdom of God Suffers Violence, and Violent People Plunder It.”
Matt. 11:12 has puzzled many Bible interpreters. What does it mean in its textual context?
What Does God Do from Heaven?
What do the Scriptures say? Fifteen major things, just a sample, of what he is doing right now.
What Happens between Your Death and Final Resurrection?
This is called the intermediate state. What happens to you during the in-between time, between your death and going to heaven and then your being reunited with your transformed, resurrected body?
What Is Grace?
It is a widely used (and abused) biblical word. What does it really mean?
Bible Basics about Hell
These words and verses, both from the Old and New Testaments, reveal the doctrine of hell. It is not as straightforward as many preachers have told us.
Ten Commandments: God’s Great Compromise with Humanity’s Big Failure
That’s a shock. Aren’t we supposed to obey the Ten Commandments? Well … only if you don’t do something else first.
Everyone Shall Be Judged by Their Works and Words
Out of his great love for people, God in his mercy is forewarning everyone, whether the redeemed or unredeemed, that this judgment SHALL happen, based on their good or bad deeds and good or bad words. The Scriptures are unambiguous about it. How do we prepare for it? God offers solutions before we all face it.
Brief Overview of Divorce and Remarriage in New Testament
Let’s look at the key verses in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and 1 Corinthians. It is a review for my own introductory education. Call it “Divorce and Remarriage 101.”
Quick Reference to Jewish Groups in Gospels and Acts
This is quick reference guide to religious and political Jewish groups who appear in the Gospels and the Book of Acts.
John 14 Does Not Teach Second Coming or Separate Rapture
Many interpreters believe that John 14:2-3 teaches the Second Coming or rapture before the Second Coming, but 14:23 decisively argues against this interpretation.
Matthew 24:4-35 Predicts Destruction of Jerusalem and Temple
This interpretation breaks open the meaning of this much-disputed passage. Be sure to view the photos at the end. History come alive!
Matthew 24:36 to 25:46–From Second Coming to New Messianic Age
Matthew 24:4-35 is about the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, while 24:36-25:46 is about the Second Coming or parousia, the close-out of the age, final judgment, and finally the New Messianic Age.
Luke 17:22-37 and 21:34-36 Teach the Second Coming
Those verses in Luke are compared with Matt. 26:26-28 and 36-44, which are about the Second Coming. This post also looks at Luke 21:34-36 and Mark 13:32-37, which are also about the Second Coming.
Luke 21:5-33 Predicts Destruction of Jerusalem and Temple
By far, Luke 21:5-33 clearly demonstrate that these verses, which parallel Matt. 24:4-35 and Mark 13:5-31, are an extended prediction of the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, and not the Second Coming. It is best to read those verses in their own context and in light of Old Testament apocalyptic passages. Then we can have clarity. Please view the photos of the Arch of Titus and the Jewish Menorah, at the end.
Mark 13:32-37 Teaches Second Coming
This may be the shortest post in my series on Matt. 24-25, Luke 17 and 21, and Mark 13.
Mark 13:5-31 Predicts Destruction of Jerusalem and Temple
We must look at these verses in their textual and historical contexts. And we must not skip over the most stubborn verse in the synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke); then we can interpret this Scripture more clearly. Please view the photos at the end.
Is America Doomed?
After election 2022, the titled question is still valid. I normally write on the Bible and theology nowadays, but occasionally I still include a cultural and social article from a biblical point of view. There is hope but only in God.
What Is Posttribulational Premillennialism?
This theory interprets the millennium literally to be a thousand years, but before then a great tribulation takes place. Christ’s second coming happens after that tribulation.
What Is Midtribulational Premillennialism?
This theory interprets the millennium literally to be a thousand years, but before then a seven-year great tribulation takes place. The Church will go through half of it (mid-) and then get “raptured” out.
What Is Pretribulational Premillennialism?
This theory says that the millennium is interpreted literally to be a thousand years, but before then a seven-year great tribulation takes place. The Church will get “raptured” out before that tribulation.
Matthew 7:21-23: “I Never Knew You, Depart from Me!”
These verses are very sobering. What do they mean in your life and mine?
The Son of Man Claims God’s Authority to Forgive Sins on Earth
Mark 2:1-12 says that the Son of Man–Jesus–forgave a paralytic’s sins. Does this mean that Jesus claimed authority that only God has, thus making himself equal to God? Did he use a Hebrew word for “forgiveness” which only God can offer?
Why Didn’t Jesus Know the Day or the Hour of His Return?
Why did Jesus say that not even the Son knows the day or the hour of the Second Coming? Puzzling.
Cosmic Disasters = Apocalyptic Imagery for Judgment and Major Change
“Four blood moons!” said popular books. If we interpret the following passages literally, then the cosmos (earth, sky, heavens, stars, worlds, seas, planets, sun, moon, and so on) would not exist as we observe it today. Instead, let’s use wisdom to interpret the Bible in its context.
Bible Basics about Heaven
Here is what you need to know about God’s dwelling place and key Hebrew and Greek words, all spelled out in clear English. Paradise is also discussed.
Three Options for Interpreting Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21
Things are not so clear-cut as I had thought they were. Please be sure to check out my photos of the Arch of Titus at the end; they show rhe Romans stomped all over the Jerusalem temple.
Are There Degrees of Punishment, Rewards after Final Judgment?
Will a generous and charitable grandmother who never got around to receiving Christ Jesus as Lord end up bobbing up and down in the lake of fire, next to Hitler, Stalin and Mao?
1. Hell and Punishment: Eternal, Conscious Torment
This theory is the standard one. However, one of the most stunning outcomes of my study of this theory is how little support it receives from Scripture, or the Scriptures can be interpreted differently than I first expected. Don’t believe it? Read every word of this post.
2. Hell and Punishment: Terminal Punishment
What will happen to your kind and generous but unredeemed grandmother after she is judged? Will she burn in hell-fires in eternal torment? Terminalists or conditionalists or annihilationists (all three terms mean the same doctrine) say no. There is another and better Scriptural option.
3. Hell and Punishment: Universalism
What will happen to your generous and gracious but unredeemed grandmother after judgment? Eternal, conscious punishment in the lake of fire next to Hitler, Stalin and Mao? Universalists say no. They claim to have a better and Scriptural option.
What Do Words ‘Eternity,’ ‘Eternal’ Fully Mean in the Bible?
This is an old-fashioned look at a Hebrew lexicon and two Greek lexicons, but in an easy-to-read format for nontechnical readers of the Bible. The definitions are wide-ranging and unexpected.
Rich Man and Lazarus: True Events or Just a Parable?
Here is a compendium of various commentators, who tend to reach one conclusion.
1. Gifts of Spirit: Word of Wisdom
This gift is given in order to proclaim the wisdom about Christ and for any particular or special need through the empowerment of the Spirit.
2. Gifts of the Spirit: Word of Knowledge
This manifestation of the Spirit can reveal who Christ is more fully and give you information that you could not have without the Spirit revealing it. It does not come by study and research. It is a gift of the Spirit, not of your own mental faculties.
3. Gifts of the Spirit: Faith
This is a surge of trust that God will give anyone who needs it and in accordance with his will.
4. Gifts of the Spirit: Gifts of Healings
Healings come in all shapes and sizes, so expect God to work in a variety of ways.
5. Gifts of the Spirit: Workings of Miracles
This gift is available to all, today, not just a special few. God will give it to you when you need it most.
6. Gifts of the Spirit: Prophecy
This gift can be very edifying for you and the church. It is not a preacher’s inspired sermon. And don’t despise it, either, says the Scripture.
7. Gifts of the Spirit: Discernings of Spirits
It is a broad enough to help you distinguish between the false and the true, the Holy Spirit and evil spirits, deceived and true humans.
8. Gifts of the Spirit: Spirit-Inspired Languages (‘Tongues’)
It is important to study this gift.
9. Gifts of the Spirit: Interpretation of Spirit-Inspired Languages
This gift depends on Spirit-inspired languages (‘tongues’). Without them, interpretation would not be needed. This post gives a basic teaching of this gift.
The Burnt Offering from a NT Perspective
So begins my nontechnical journey through Leviticus. I am learning a lot. The New Testament authors give us permission to use typology to fully explain the elements of the burnt sacrifice in the New Covenant believer’s life. (References: Lev. 1, 6:8-13, and Num 15:1-16)
The Grain Offering from a NT Perspective
Let’s learn to love the life lessons in Leviticus by finding out what it is and how Jesus fulfills this food or grain or meal offering, which was motivated by gratitude for the Lord. (References: Lev. 2 and 6:14-23; Num. 15:1-16)
The Fellowship Offering from a NT Perspective
It is also known as the peace offering and even the communion offering (n the sense of community). The wave offering is included here. Christ’s fulfillment of this offering has many parts, and they are all wonderful. (References: Lev. 3; 7:11-34)
The Sin Offering from a NT Perspective
If we want to fully understand Jesus’s sacrifice, we have to look into Leviticus. The substitutionary theory of the atonement is particularly clear in this offering. The New Testament even teaches that Christ became our sin offering. (References: Leviticus 4:1-5:13 and 6:24-30 and Num. 15:1-16)
The Guilt Offering from a NT Perspective
It is also called the Reparations offering or Trespass offering. Someone breaks the boundaries of the holy and becomes aware of it later, or he does some dishonest things; then the guilt offering is for him. Of course the New Testament (NT) streamlines and fulfills it in Christ (References: Leviticus 5:14-6:7; 7:1-7)
Ordination of Aaron and Sons in Leviticus 8 from a NT Perspective
I’m on a journey through Leviticus, and it is very enjoyable. Yes, their ordination is significant in its own right, but how do New Testament themes enlarge and fulfill priestly consecration?
First Worship and Inauguration of Tabernacle in Leviticus 9 from a NT Perspective
After Aaron and his sons were ordained (Lev. 8), they performed their first ritual for their own sins and then for the sins of the people. This is the inauguration of the new tabernacle. How does the New Covenant improve on these old rituals?
Death of Nadab and Abihu in Leviticus 10 from a NT Perspective
Those were Aaron the high priest’s eldest sons, and they mixed strange fire against the law, and God judged them instantly. Why? Is God a petty tyrant? Most of this post is concerned with this issue, while the rest of Leviticus 10 gives further instructions for the priests generally.
Clean and Unclean Food in Leviticus 11 from a NT Perspective
Leviticus has all sorts of food laws. How does the New Testament relate to them? Are they canceled? Are they kept? What exactly does the New Testament really say? The bulk of this post is about the last question.
Childbirth, Bodily Discharges in Leviticus 12, 15 from a NT Perspective
These Levitical laws in those two chapters are about reproduction and childbirth, in other words, male and female body parts. The laws, seemingly primitive by our standards, reveal the heart of the God who looks out for his people by promoting cleanliness and health. What does the New Testament teach about ceremonial cleanness and uncleanness?
Skin Disease, Mold in Leviticus 13, 14 from a NT Perspective
The laws in those two chapters about quarantine or isolation benefit humanity. They come from God’s heart of love for people. Yet, there is a ceremonial uncleanness that the New Testament rises above even for disease, but how?
The Day of Atonement in Leviticus 16 from a NT Perspective
This is a simple look at Leviticus 16 in ten steps. The NT streamlines, improves and fulfills it. How?
‘Life Is in the Blood’ in Leviticus 17 from a NT Perspective
Modern people may dismiss the blood in the Old Testament as too primitive and unnecessary. But Jesus and his apostles applied the theology behind it to their days. It is wiser to follow them.
Unlawful Sexual Relations in Leviticus 18 from a NT Perspective
Does the New Testament cancel moral law? What about unlawful sexual practices? Are we free to practice at least some of them? Would grace cover us when we regularly did?
Moral and Other Laws in Leviticus 19 from a NT Perspective
Does the New Testament go so far as to cancel honest business practices, respect for parents, and even sound agricultural practices? Or does it accept some of them and reject others?
Punishments in Leviticus 20 from a NT Perspective
The punishments are not pretty, but we can still learn some basic principles of how seriously God takes sin. An extended discussion on the death penalty from a New Testament perspective is included here, at the end.
Rules for Priests in Leviticus 21-22 from a NT Perspective
This post is a quick summary of those two chapters in Leviticus. I am learning a lot in my journey through this infallible and inspired book, when it is properly interpreted through the filter of the New Covenant or New Testament.
Festivals in Leviticus 23 from a NT Perspective
The appointed festivals in this chapter were sacred for the ancient Israelites. They are still sacred for the Jewish community today. What does the New Testament say about them?
Death Penalty in Leviticus 24 from a NT Perspective
Chapter 24 of Leviticus starts off with the command to supply olive oil for the lamp in the tabernacle and bread there. Then in the second half of the chapter a man was stoned to death for blasphemy. And other verses demand the death penalty for taking a life. What does the New Testament say about all of this?
Liberty and Redemption in Leviticus 25 from a NT Perspective
This is a great passage about the Year of Jubilee, because it goes to the heart of the law: redemption and liberty. What does the New Testament say?
Rewards and Punishments in Leviticus 26 from a NT Perspective
What does the New Testament really say about them in light of this chapter in Leviticus? This post will make hyper-grace teachers cringe, but the rest of us will feel sober and be biblically informed.
Vows and Redemption in Leviticus 27 from a NT Perspective
How could a devout Israelite express his commitment to the Lord? His gratitude? His promise to give to the Lord for a future blessing? By vowing to him, with some property and other possessions–some “skin” in the game. How does the New Testament transform and streamline these laws?
What Does ‘Atonement’ Mean?
This is an easy-to-follow study of some key Hebrew and Greek words, all transliterated into English.
What Is Reconciliation in the Bible?
God didn’t move. We did. Now he is wooing us back.
Why the Cross?
Ever since the Enlightenment (1600-1800+), modern man does not like the bloody elements of Christianity, the blood that was shed on the cross. This man knows best, right?
Why the Blood of Jesus?
Postmodern man after the Enlightenment (1600-1800+) does not like the bloody part of Christianity. Of course this man is shortsighted. This post answers the question and lays out the efficacious benefits of the blood of Christ for our salvation. It also answers whether it is biblical to “plead the blood.”
How Do We Respond to God’s Salvation?
When we experience salvation, we respond to it in our daily lives. How do we and should we respond?
What Is the Work of Salvation?
Who brought it about? How did salvation happen? Do we play our part to receive it?
What Is the Source of Salvation?
Read the Scriptural answer.
What Are Some Scriptural Images of Salvation?
The Scriptures use metaphors or imagery to describe salvation.
What Is Repentance?
Does it merely mean “changed mind,” or does it go deeper?
What Is Biblical Forgiveness?
If you sin regularly, this post is for you. God hurls your sins into the sea and remembers them no more. An old fashioned word study and basic Bible study, with lots of biblical verses put in an easy-to-read format.
Justification: What It Is and What It Is Not
What does the term mean and not mean? An old-fashioned Bible study offered in a Q&A format.
Justification: How It Was Done, How We Get It, and Its Results
A thorough study that I hope clarifies this issue.
Parable of the Sower: Eternal Security or Possible Apostasy?
The parable may not cover the titled theological dispute in detail, but many interpreters believe it does. So let’s explore.
Remaining a Christian or Falling Away?
In the old days, this used to be called the “perseverance of the saints” (believers). All that means is the persistence of Christians to keep their relationship with the Lord. So the related question often comes up: Can a truly born-again believer walk away from this relationship?
Possible Apostasy or Eternal Security?
Can truly born-again believers drift permanently away from or renounce their relationship with the Lord, or are they eternally secure?
Bible Basics about Angels
Learn what the Bible really says. This study is essential for our being rooted in the Word, not some desperate quest for angels. Seek Jesus always and only.
The Quaker Council of Philadelphia Proclaims James King
Dateline: 11 May 1685: Maybe the Quakers thought it prudent to honor the new king. But there was a problem–his religion. Both sides were part of European and American church history, in the colonial era. At his accession to the throne, he became James II.
Philadelphia Council Proclaims William and Mary King and Queen
Dateline: Philadelphia, 1 Nov 1689: The Council debates how William and Mary became King and Queen. Let’s listen in on a near-verbatim transcription of their discussion on that day. They were part of church history, and so was the council of Philadelphia.
Philadelphia Council Proclaims Anne Queen of England
Dateline: 5 July 1702, Philadelphia. People in the New World thought it best to proclaim her queen in order to provide for their own defence and form a militia against invasion and for legal reasons. Both sides of the Atlantic were part of church history.
What Is a Biblical Mystery?
It is not defined by what the world system or pagan religions say, nor is it what popular Bible teachers seem to preach.
What Is Righteousness?
It seems confusion dominates discussions about the righteousness of God. Is it imputed? Imparted? When does it mean vindication? Justice? Holiness? Declared not guilty? Putting things right? All of the above? Find out what the Old Testament and New Testament say!
The Fruit of Righteousness
Paul prays for the Philippians that they would be filled with the fruit of righteousness (Phil. 1:11). Therefore righteousness is a fruit, every bit as much as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are. What does this aspect of the term mean?
An Evil Counterfeit to the Jesus Revolution
I lived through the second half of Jesus Revolution of the late 1960s and throughout the 1970s. What is happening today is an evil knockoff.
Deconstructing Gender Differences
The left! Sexual nihilism. Anything goes or nothing goes. So what? Who cares? In that spirit, I don’t know anymore what’s worse: shouting “fire!” in a crowded theater or “confused boy!” in a crowded girls’ locker room (said a clever radio host).
What Is Penal Substitution?
This theory of the atonement or the significance of Christ’s death on the cross has come under attack of late. And maybe some sermons and illustrations of it have been out of line. But this theory of the atonement is still biblically valid. Here’s why.
Does Book of Acts Teach Modern Communism or Socialism?
Some say yes. What are the historical and social context of three key passages?
How to Rescue America with These Images
Lies and exaggerations and distortions flow through the web and media and harm our society. They must be countered. If not, America will decline–at first slowly, and now rapidly–by moral rot. I also offer some biblical truths. You may certainly copy the images and post them in social media.
Should I Wash a Black Man’s Feet to Atone for Historic Racism?
I tell my story: Not my racism, but my ancestors owned slaves. Most importantly, what do the Scriptures say about atonement?
So What’s Wrong with Socialism, Anyway?
Have you ever heard a student or young adult ask it today? It’s still going strong in Europe and numerous countries around the globe. What if Leftists were to rebrand their ideology and hide it under a current political party in American politics? Therefore, it’s important to take a closer look at it.
What Are Renewal Movements in Christianity?
How are they defined? How many people belong to them?
Three Reasons Why People Are Whipped Up into Violent, Frenzied Mobs
This issue ranges much more widely than just the current events in 2020 America. We can learn from Scripture any time when it speaks to our nature and satanic lies.
Christ’s Death on Cross = Cosmic Child Abuse?
Critics say: “God sent his Son to the cross and poured his just wrath on him? Would any loving Father do that? It’s cosmic child abuse!” True or a misunderstanding?
Is It Just to Deploy National Guard to Stop Mayhem?
That is, is it the morally right thing to do? That question goes beyond current events in America in 2020. What is the government allowed to do, if it intends to restore peace and order? What does the Bible say?
Should Christians Fight or Flee Persecution?
What if the Church is targeted for persecution by the government or by large groups of extremists, but the government does not come to the aid of Christians? For example, rioting Muslims in Nigeria or Sudan attack churches on a wide scale. Can Christians defend themselves, because the State does not come to their aid?
Should the State ‘Turn the Other Cheek’?
I have often heard confused uses of “turn the other cheek.” The saying seems so imbalanced and out of touch with reality, as it circulates around the world, out of context and isolated.
Word Study: Truth
This post is not about modern philosophy. What does the Bible say about this rich word?
Who Was Melchizedek?
He seems to be a mysterious figure. Some say he was a Christophany (manifestation) of the preincarnate Christ. But who was he according to the entire Scriptures that mention him? An old-fashioned Bible study here.
One Hundred Accomplishments the West Can Be Proud of
The western Left keeps attacking its own culture in their weird, dysfunctional self-loathing. To counter them, we need to be reminded of the great things we have achieved, so we can stop hanging our heads. Here is a simple list.
Word Study on Forbearance and Patience
Do you need it? Do you dare pray for it? Learn what it means, and you will pray for it in your family and at your job.
What Is a Parable?
It is the major technique of Jesus’s teaching, right up there with his direct teaching. So how do we define it?
What Is Fellowship?
Why do we need it? Why must we not skip it for very long? A Bible study here, with the famous “one another” verses included.
What Is the Church?
How does the Bible describe it? We need to know, so we can fit into God’s plan with other believers.
The Power of Scripture and Doctrine in the Church
Certain Christians downplay Scripture. But it is better to say that this book, full of revelations and wonderful teachings, should occupy the top spot in our gatherings. Here’s why.
Grace to You
Paul begins and ends each letter with grace. Great for your personal edification or a series in a Bible study or sermons.
Alternatives to Grace?
What are those alternatives? Only one man, inspired by the Spirit, turned the problem and solution on its head.
Two Approaches In Interpreting Scripture
One approach says, “Just do it!” The other one says, “It’s already been done.”
What Is Biblical Imputation?
Hint to its meaning: Think about it and take it on credit.
The Law Teaches Virtue and Restrains Vice
Several years ago, my city installed cameras at various intersections, and I got caught three times. I “miraculously” became an awesome driver!
Law versus Grace
The New Testament issues all sorts of commands and imperatives that many of us can’t live up to. What then?
Being Justified in Paul’s Epistles
What does “being justified” mean? Acquittal in law court, put right in a covenant, or both, or what?
Paul Quotes the Old Testament
This study looks at the Old Testament passages that Paul quotes in his writings, and the post places the references in categories.
The Law in Paul’s Theology
The “Grace Revolution” must adequately deal with this topic, for a change.
Dr. Jim's Essential Bible Teaching 