Truth: Good works do not earn salvation. Equally true: Good works provide the evidence of salvation. The clear and consistent teaching of Scripture is that faith and works are intrinsically and inseparably connected. • John the Baptist connected faith and deeds when he called for “a fruit consistent with repentance” (Luke 3:8). When the crowds…
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Our differences need not divide us, because even as we are unique and individual, we are also all one. — Henry Kimsey-House, leadership coach Today’s leadership gurus often promote biblical relationship principles without necessarily being aware of the source. We can well imagine, for example, the apostle Paul making a statement similar to the one…
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A “serious argument” broke out in the church at Antioch (Acts 15:2). The Greek word translated here as “argument” is staseos. It comes from a word that means “to stand” (as in “to take a stand”) and can carry the meaning of a dispute or even a riot. In Acts 19:40 the CSB translates the…
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It seems ironic and foolish to speak of churches having “worship wars.” Nevertheless, over the past couple of decades many congregations experienced conflict over that very issue. Some worshipers preferred a more formal, meditative style that promotes a deep sense of reverence toward God. Others wanted a freer, louder style that expresses joyful praise and…
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“Lord, how happy is anyone you discipline and teach from your law” (Ps. 94:12). Happy to be disciplined? Is that even possible? The writer of Hebrews said, “No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful” (Heb. 12:11a). Unpleasant and painful sounds right. But then he said this: “Later on … it [discipline] yields the…
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