a word from the pastor

Differences in Interpretation

One of the arguments against Christianity is the conflicting interpretations of the Bible within the church itself. They reason that if Christians cannot agree on what the Bible means why should they even bother trying to figure it out. It seems a fair question but actually reveals an intellectua...
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Before You Read Your Bible

The best way to prepare for your day is to start with time spent with the Lord, in his Word and in prayer. But even this requires preparation--preparation of the heart. Now, I’m assuming every mature believer is in the habit of daily Bible reading and prayer. If you don’t practice this, it’s time...
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The End and Means of Christianity

The Christian life has often been described as a journey. As such, it has a beginning, a roadmap, and a destination. Our journey begins the moment we surrender our lives to Jesus as Savior and Lord, and it proceeds as we faithfully and obediently follow the map of Holy Scripture. But what exactly...
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“Swift to Hear”

It’s no random coincidence that James, writing to believers experiencing hardships and trials, follows with an exhortation to hear God’s Word. God often uses hard times to get our attention. C.S. Lewis said, “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains.”...
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Seven Reasons to Memorize Scripture

About forty years ago, an older pastor encouraged me saying, “Memorize scriptures while you’re young and you’ll have them for the rest of your life.” Now, at 67, it’s my turn to pass on that wonderful wisdom to you. I did take his advice, memorized certain chapters, many verses, and a good number...
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Are you a student of the Bible?

I recently came across a quote by atheist Andrew Seidel of the Freedom from Religion Foundation that is highly typical of secularism’s attitude toward the Bible. He said: “The road to atheism is littered with Bibles that have been read from cover to cover.” Obviously, the Bible’s message “did the...
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A Belly Full of Hay

I’m beginning to wonder if it’s possible to be an atheist. Maybe I just don’t believe they exist. I mean, we’re worshiping creatures, right? So, for example, if a man lives for personal wealth and says he doesn’t believe in God, he’s not really an atheist, he’s a materialist. Money has become a g...
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A tip to avoid a Bible-reading breakdown

Mid-February is that time of year when many of our New Year’s resolutions go the way of the dodo. Perhaps you began the year resolved to read the Bible through in 2020, but time and circumstance have slowly dissolved your resolve. Trust me, as I continue my own annual trek through the Scriptures,...
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The “Frozen Chosen"

Someone sent me a link to an op-ed in Baptist News Global entitled, 3 words for the church in 2019: ‘we were wrong,’ and suggested I respond. The op-ed should be of deep concern to anyone who believes the Bible is the Word of God and is the final authority on all matters of faith and practice. ...
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Intersectionality & Woke Culture: A New Hermeneutic?

A controversy has recently sprung up that raises questions about how we interpret the Bible. John MacArthur, speaking in a panel discussion at “Truth Matters Conference,” was asked to give a “pithy” response to whatever word the moderator spoke. The word (actually two words) was “Beth Moore.” His...
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