Where did sin come from? The Bible answers the question in two texts. The first scripture makes a definitive statement about the origin of sin. The second scripture confirms that in an historical account. James 1:14-15: “But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it … Read more
Disciples of Christ must not sin! “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died , and your life is hidden with Christ in God … … Read more
Is feeling guilty a good thing? Our conscience is like a thermostat for how we are measuring up to a standard of right and wrong. If our conscience is determined by God’s word it can properly commend or rebuke us and our behavior. Note Romans 2:15: “…who show the work of the law written in … Read more
Do Temptations Come from Satan or from Ourselves? James 1:14 says, “each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.” Acts 5:3 asks, “why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price?” Which is it? Are we tempted by our own … Read more
Who can turn to the Lord? “Jesus said: “Come unto me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29 The burdens Jesus refers … Read more
God made man upright… “Truly, this only I have found: That God made man upright, but they have sought out many schemes” (Ecclesiastes 7:29). From the beginning people have turned against God in disobedience. Eve at the fruit that God had forbidden and when she gave it to Adam, he ate it too. At the … Read more
We all have our flaws… When I look at other people who seem to have it all together, I feel like a failure. My short-comings loom large, ever-present in my vision. But other people (church people?) seem so righteous, so fruitful and so strong. The truth is we all have our faults. Most of us try to hide them … Read more
Why is Satan so Effective? Satan is effective in pulling people into sin and rebellion because he ignores all the rules. Most significantly – he is a liar. Read the Bible account of the first sin (Genesis 3:1-6). Satan will tell you whatever you want to hear. He will contradict God, truth and reality without … Read more
Do Your Part First … God Will Do His! We go to the Lord with a list and a longing for all the things He should do for us – even those of us who are focused on things spiritual. However, James wrote, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your … Read more
Who Do You Think About in Bible Study? As a teacher I have noticed so very often that people studying the Bible want to talk about others who are failing to do what is right. It is embarrassing to admit that, after some years of noticing people apply scripture to others, it occurred to me that … Read more
