In the Old Testament, several poetic devices were used for teaching, prophesying or worship. Although constituting sophisticated art in the truest sense of the word, they were a delight to read and recite, and they are an important means for better understanding. Take a journey with us to learn more about the Hebrew poetry of acrostic and parallel writing.
Sermons
With God
The Bible records examples of those who were without God in their lifetimes and those whom God was with. The sacrifice of Jesus Christ has made it possible for Christians to be with the Father and Christ both now and, ultimately, as members of the everlasting Family of God.
Converting Others – Why Not?
Are we supposed to try to change or convert others so that they will accept and live by the truth? Does God try at all times to lead every human being to salvation? Why do Christians have to be drawn by the Father? Why are they described as firstfruits, predestined, called, elect, or chosen? Why is God’s true Church identified as the “little flock”? Why does God blind the eyes of people?
Cosigning Pitfalls
Likely someone will ask us to co-sign for a loan sometime. In 7-points, we’ll look at: 1)God’s-Teaching 2)Emotions–We want to help 3)Liability–3-car loan examples 4)Friendships-Ruined 5)Rentals–Apt/House/Etc 6)Default examples 7)19-Other examples.
Feedback Loops
Systems provide us with a structure for making decisions and acting in order to achieve a desired outcome. Feedback loops within a system act to stabilize or destabilize a system. A negative feedback loop in a system stabilizes an environment so the desired outcome can be reached more reliably. The Bible provides us with a system by which we can live our lives. By applying the negative feedback loop of repentance in the system of living a Christian life, we can overcome sin, and reach the desired outcome of eternal life.
Knowing God
How well do we know God? More importantly, how well does God know us? We must emulate the attitude of children, as Christ commanded, after our baptism. What characteristics of a child should we try to copy and which should we try to avoid?
Living in Peace – Part 2
When we are offended or when we offend someone, what are we to do to be reconciled and to establish a peaceful relationship? The Bible tells us very clearly, but its injunctions are perhaps violated more often by Christians than any other commandment.
Living in Peace – Part 1
As followers of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, we are to do everything we can to live in peace with our fellowman. God commands us to seek and pursue peace and to be peacemakers; and He does not command us to do something which would be impossible for us to accomplish. The Bible gives us principles which show us what to do–and what NOT to do–to maintain peaceful relationships.
The Forgotten God
Being forgotten by His people Israel was–and
is–something God solemnly warns about. The consequences for the nation have in
the past and will in the future lead to national punishment.
Forgetting God also holds grave warnings for
Christians.
Will God Protect Us?
Can we expect protection from God during these difficult economic times? What is required on our part to expect His Protection?