Tag: authority

The Man Who Left His Clothes Behind

Carl Pollard

There’s a strange detail buried in the story of Jesus’ arrest. Mark 14:51–52 says, “And a young man followed him, with nothing but a linen cloth about his body. And they seized him, but he left the linen cloth and ran away naked.”

And then…he disappears. No name. No explanation. A young man sprinting into the darkness without his clothes. My question is why would Mark include that?

We can’t know for certain who the young man was. Some have suggested that it may have been Mark himself. That’s possible, but the text never identifies him.

What we do know is that Mark has placed this bizarre moment immediately after one of the saddest statements in his Gospel, “And they all left him and fled.” Mark 14:50

Jesus had spent years surrounded by people. Crowds followed Him. Disciples traveled with Him. Peter had just promised, “If I must die with you, I will not deny you.” Then the soldiers arrived and suddenly, following Jesus became dangerous. And everybody ran! 

Mark seems almost determined to show us how complete the abandonment was. Even this unnamed young man was so desperate to escape that when they grabbed his clothing, he chose to lose the clothing rather than stay with Jesus. He left everything behind (including his dignity) to get away.

There’s another young man later in the Gospel. After Jesus is crucified, several women enter His tomb. Mark 16:5 says, “And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe…”

The first young man is fleeing into the darkness. The second is sitting inside an empty tomb announcing, “He has risen; he is not here.”They aren’t necessarily the same person. In fact, the young man in the tomb most likely an angelic messenger.

But the contrast is pretty cool. In chapter 14, everything looks lost. Jesus is arrested. His followers scatter. A young man runs away exposed and afraid. By chapter 16, everything has changed. The tomb is empty. Death has been defeated. And another young man, now clothed in white, announces victory.

That’s the story of the gospel. Sometimes we judge what God is doing while we’re standing in Mark 14. Everything is dark. Plans have collapsed. People have disappeared. Nothing makes sense.

But the story isn’t over. There’s still a Mark 16 coming. The same Gospel that records a man running terrified into the darkness ends with an empty tomb.

Sometimes the chapter that looks like the end is only three days away from resurrection.

Why Doesn’t God Just Kill The Devil?

Carl Pollard

This is a question that has been asked for centuries. If God is all powerful, why doesn’t He just kill Satan? In order to adequately answer this question we will need to look at a few different aspects of the Devil himself, as well as the attributes of God.

It’s not hard to find evidence of a world filled with sin, and logically it would make sense for God to just destroy the source of the problem…or would it? Let’s notice a few things about Satan.

Where did he come from? In Genesis 1:31, God sees His creation and it says, “everything was very good.” All of God’s work was perfect. From this we can conclude that Satan started off as good and became evil. While Scripture doesn’t reveal his exact origin, it says enough for us to draw a logical conclusion. For example, 2 Peter 2:4, Matthew 12:24, and 25:41 point to Satan as the leader of a groups of angels that have abandoned heaven. So we have to ask, why was Satan cast out of Heaven?

Based on the previous verses and what we read in Jude 6, the angels were created with free choice. And Peter explains that the angels sinned (2 Peter 2:4). We read the phrase “The Devil and HIS angels” so Satan was most likely the leader and instigator of this rebellion in heaven. Satan tried to rebel against God and failed miserably and will face the consequences of his actions (Revelation 20:1-3). Since Satan cannot win against God, he now wants to get payback by taking his anger out on God’s creation.

So why doesn’t God destroy Satan? Aside from the fact that he’s an angel and killing him would be different from killing a human, we run into another issue.

Even if Satan were destroyed, man would still sin. James 1:14 tells us that as humans we are carried away by our OWN desires, and these desires lead to spiritual death. Satan doesn’t cause everyone to sin, at every location on earth, because he doesn’t have this kind of power. Even if God destroyed Satan, there would still be sin on earth.

There is one other aspect we must look at in order to answer this question; What is the definition of good? Without evil, how can good exist? If God is good, then evil must exist. Without darkness, how can we recognize light? There is balance and perfection in everything.

We are given free will, and if there were no other choice except faith in God, we would not have faith by choice. We would have faith by force. I think about when I was younger and got in a fight with my siblings. Mom would force us to hug each other. That hug was not done out of love, but by mom telling us to get it done. Do you prefer to be loved by choice or by force?

Satan will get what he deserves, but God is defined as a God of love. If God took away our free choice (either to serve Him or sin) then He would be a God of Force. God has the power to destroy Satan, but in doing so we would still be in a fallen world filled with sin. God loves us enough that He wants us to come to Him by choice. This is something each one of us should strive to do.

When Caesar Lives Rent-Free in the Christian’s Mind

Praying for Nero, Submitting to Authority, and Keeping Christ on the Throne

Brent Pollard

Roman Emperor Nero is a deeply fascinating core figure in ancient Roman history. Suetonius, an ancient Roman historian, included Nero’s life and deeds in his chronicle of the emperors of the Julio-Claudian dynasty: Nero’s father, Domitius, was of extremely poor moral character; when Nero was born, his father made an ill-omened prophecy, saying nothing good could be produced from his union with his wife, Agrippina. Nero lost his father at the age of 3; his mother, Agrippina, was exiled and only regained imperial favor after Claudius ascended the throne.

Via careful planning, Nero was adopted by Claudius, tutored by Seneca, and married to Octavia, Claudius’ daughter, to link his lineage to the imperial royal bloodline. He ascended to the throne at age 17 following Claudius’ death. In the early period of his reign, he governed using Augustus as a model, and according to Suetonius’s records, his acts of benevolence correspond to the timeframe of Paul’s Chapter 13 of the Book of Romans.

The initially promising start to Roman Emperor Nero’s rule collapsed abruptly. He indulged heavily in vain, ostentatious displays, public entertainments, and musical pleasures. The ancient Roman historian Suetonius recorded that Nero slid from youthful missteps into outright vice; the monarch who was supposed to uphold order was instead dragged into ruin by his own desires and the flattery of those around him.

The cruelty of Roman Emperor Nero earned him an unspeakably infamous legacy. According to records from the ancient Roman historian Suetonius, Nero murdered his adoptive father Claudius, his stepbrother, his mother, his wife, and his tutor; he plundered wealth to build his lavish Golden Palace, persecuted Christians, and was also accused of deliberately setting fire to destroy the city of Rome.

The Roman Empire then turned against Nero, and revolts broke out across its territory one after another. General Galba was acclaimed as the new emperor. Nero, who had lost all his trusted personal guards, fled and hid in the residence of a freedman. Left with no escape route, he committed suicide with the assistance of his secretary Epaphroditus. Having spent his entire life pursuing acclaim as an artist, he ultimately met a lonely, frightened, and disgraced end. It was a fate that stood in marked contrast to his harsh and oppressive rule.

Every generation has its own Caesar. People hold a range of attitudes toward him: admiration, fear, ridicule, hatred, defense, justification, or even excessive obsession. But the question is simpler and sharper: Is this illegitimate usurper of the mind, who holds no land deed and pays no rent, occupying territory that rightfully belongs to Christ?

The Apostle Paul lived under the rule of Nero, the Roman tyrant infamous for his vanity, cruelty, and persecution of Christians; yet he taught believers to submit to governing authorities and to pray for sovereign rulers. Therefore, today, we must never allow transient political figures to disrupt our personal peace, fellowship, and inner serenity.

Submitting to Governing Authorities Without Worshiping the Ruler

Paul wrote Romans 13 within the context of the Roman Empire’s rule. The opening verse of that chapter requires submission to the office of authority, rather than to the individual who holds that authority. This authority is a grace ordained by God, intended to curb chaos in the world.

Here’s a distinction the angry heart overlooks: We may honor the office without approving the officeholder. We can pay our taxes, obey just laws, respect public order, and soberly admit that the show of governance is often vain or corrupt, or cruel. Nero is the proof in the pudding. He was not a pious person, but Paul never let Nero become the focus of Christian identity. The believer bows to the structure God established, not to the sins of the one within it. That’s no failure; it is the calm strength of a soul whose genuine allegiance lies elsewhere.

Praying for Kings and Rulers Instead of Raging at Them

Then Paul makes the point, and his words indict our reflexes: “First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority” (1 Timothy 2:1-2). He does not just say endure kings. Pray for them, he says. The first Christian response to a ruler should not be mockery, panic, or tribal applause. It should be intercession.

Think what such a prayer does to the one who prays it. It is a strange and holy difficulty to plead honestly for a man while nursing hatred against him; the two cannot long inhabit one heart. We can ask God to restrain the ruler’s power, to give him wisdom and repentance, to protect the innocent under his rule, and to open a door for the gospel in his land. The reason goes all the way to heaven, because it is pleasing to “God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:3-4). The man you want to hate is the man God would save. Pray like that, and watch the poison ooze out of your own soul.

When Political Obsession Becomes Idolatry of the Heart

Now we need to speak plainly. The believer on the right who can’t stop talking about one president, and the believer on the left who can’t stop talking about another, suffer the same disease from opposite ends. The names are not the same, but the slavery is. When a Christian talks more of Caesar than Christ, fears the ballot box more than the judgment seat, and finds warmer fellowship in party than in the body of the Lord, politics has quietly become a rival religion.

A ruler who has only reigned for a few years should not occupy more of your heart than the eternal King. Your heart was made for a higher throne. “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we earnestly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20). “Keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God” (Colossians 3:1). The true joy of believers has never been the rise or fall of earthly governments, but the unshakeable sovereignty of Christ, who sits above all parliaments and palaces. Caesar cannot fill your soul. Quit expecting him to.

Obeying God Rather Than Men: Submission Is Not Surrender

If you think submission means you have to be spineless, Scripture specifies the line. Peter answered, when the council forbade the apostles to preach, “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). Biblical submission was never blind obedience. When the state demands what God forbids or forbids what God commands, the Christian’s higher loyalty is spoken – and it is spoken unapologetically.

But listen to the warning from the other side. Not all political frustrations are Acts 5:29 moments. We are very good at baptizing irritation as courage, rebranding contempt as discernment, and stubbornness as conviction. Even Pilate, who held Christ’s life in his hands, was told, “You would have no authority over Me, unless it had been given you from above” (John 19:11). The throne above all thrones never threatened the seat of power in Judea. And today, no other earthly authority is in danger. So discern the difference between a hill worth dying on and a mood worth indulging in.

Christ Reigns Forever: Keep the King on His Throne

As recorded in Daniel 2:21, “It is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings.” Solomon reminds us, “The king’s heart is like channels of water in the hand of the LORD; He turns it wherever He wishes” (Proverbs 21:1). Worldly rulers are merely clay in the potter’s hand, and He is “the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords” (1 Timothy 6:15). Nero’s ignoble death and the fall of the Roman Empire are clear proof of this, and only the reign of Christ endures forever.

Each person’s heart is like a throne room. Believers should remove anger that has taken the place of Christ’s sovereignty, reaffirm His lordship, and avoid elevating secular rulers to the throne of their hearts. The lesson is clear: pray for governing authorities you disagree with, speak the truth without hatred, and express criticism without anger.

WHY DO YOU BELIEVE?

Gary Pollard

I believe that God exists. I believe that He communicated with His creation by direct contact, messengers, and a series of ancient texts. I believe that He wants His human creation to be with Him after they die. I believe that He expects those who claim to be His to act within the guidelines He set in those ancient texts. I believe that there is life after death and that where we go depends on whether or not we follow this God.

Why do I believe this, though? What reason do I have to believe in something I cannot experience with my senses? I was not there thousands of years ago when the prophets and Hebrews talked to God. I was not there when God came among men and taught. I was not there when the Spirit-inspired authors of the original texts delivered their writings to the early church. The ancient texts translated into English sometimes do not effectively communicate the emotion of the words and concepts in the original language. So why do I believe these things? Why do you believe these things?

Think about this carefully.  From Genesis to Revelation the message is clear; God wants His people to exist with Him after time is destroyed. This message was communicated to an impossible variety of people, sometimes separated by hundreds of years, thousands of miles, culture, kingdom, race, and language. There are tens of thousands of manuscripts of these ancient texts in many, many different languages. There are some 25,000 New Testament manuscripts or fragments that are separated by about a thousand years, at least 8 different languages, hundreds (if not thousands) of miles of geography, and many different cultures. Yet, they are at least 95% accurate to each other. The remaining 5% do not contain a single contradiction; rather, they are spelling errors, slips of the pen, writing on the wrong line, or minor variances (“God said” vs. “He said” or “and” vs. “but”).

Of the rich libraries we have of ancient literature, none can hold even the dimmest candle to the profound accuracy and unity of the scriptures. They could not have been produced by man alone. There had to be Someone not confined by time supervising each person as they wrote. Keep in mind, these ancient cultures did not have the advantage of modern communication. They were almost totally isolated from each other and would have known little of the others’ existence, much less what they experienced or wrote from God. Our Bible has supernatural origins and its contents reveal the nature of our Creator. What I believe comes from this book because I know it is God’s message to mankind. I encourage those who have not already done so to do an in-depth study of the origin of scripture. It is one of the most faith-building studies anyone could undertake. When you know with certainty that what you are reading contains the actual thoughts and desires of God, it bolsters your faith in ways I could not begin to adequately describe.

Why Christians Are Losing Confidence In The Bible

Carl Pollard

I’ve noticed something troubling over the last few years, and maybe you have too. More and more Christians seem uncertain about the Bible. They’re not confused about difficult passages, but genuinely unsure whether scripture is fully trustworthy, relevant, or even understandable anymore. 

There was a time when people opened the Bible looking for answers. Now many open social media first. Instead of asking, “What does God say?” people often ask, “What feels right to me?” or “What’s culturally acceptable?” Slowly, confidence in God’s Word gets replaced with confidence in personal opinion.

One of the biggest reasons Christians are losing confidence in the Bible is simple, many Christians no longer know the Bible deeply. We live in a generation surrounded by biblical content, but are starving for biblical understanding. People hear short clips, motivational verses, and catchy sermons, but they rarely spend serious time studying scripture in context.

People will quote verses they’ve never really studied. And I’ve watched Christians panic when someone online brings up a difficult question because they’ve never been taught how to think through scripture carefully. A shallow understanding of the Bible creates shallow confidence in the Bible.

Hosea 4:6 is still true today: “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”

Another reason is cultural pressure. Modern culture constantly challenges biblical teaching. Whether the topic is morality, sexuality, judgment, gender, or salvation, Christians feel pressure to soften what scripture says so they won’t appear narrow minded or outdated. And when people love acceptance from culture more than truth from God, compromise usually follows.

Paul warned about this in 2 Timothy 4:3–4 when he said people would gather teachers who tell them what they want to hear instead of what they need to hear. How true is that for us today?

Social media has also played a major role. It seems like doubt spreads faster than truth. A thirty second TikTok clip mocking Christianity can shake someone who’s spent almost no time seriously studying the Bible for themselves. Emotional arguments are treated as stronger than actual evidence. And unfortunately, many Christians spend far more time scrolling than studying.

At the same time, some churches haven’t helped. In many places, deep teaching has been replaced with entertainment and surface-level encouragement. People leave services feeling inspired for a moment, but spiritually unprepared for real questions. A faith built entirely on emotion usually struggles when trials or doubts come.

But here’s what encourages me. The Bible has survived every attack thrown at it for centuries. Critics have tried to bury it, mock it, outlaw it, and discredit it. Yet scripture remains. Why? Because it’s God’s Word.

The answer to doubt isn’t abandoning scripture. It’s opening it again! Reading it carefully. Studying it honestly. Wrestling with difficult questions instead of running from them.

God’s Word doesn’t fear investigation. In fact, the deeper you study it, the stronger your confidence becomes.

And in a culture drowning in confusion, Christians desperately need that confidence again.

Books by the Pollards

A Tiny Spark Snail Mail Club (Kathy Pollard)

Learning A Lesson From A Lantern

Gary Pollard

I’m a big fan of old fashioned lighting, especially old kerosene lanterns because they’re simple. I went to light one of my lanterns and the flame wouldn’t stay alive for more than a few seconds. I thought, “Maybe the vent is covered in carbon and there isn’t enough oxygen for the flame.” So, I took it apart, cleaned it out, and put it back together. I was sure it was the vent.

To my chagrin, the flame died within seconds even after the lantern was cleaned. Next I trimmed the wick because it seemed too dark; perhaps having a fresh wick would allow the flame to stay alive. It wasn’t a stopped vent, so it had to be the wick. Sure enough, the flame died even with a fresh wick. At this point I was stumped. 

The next day it occurred to me while putting gas in my car: the lantern was just out of kerosene! It was obvious to the extreme. I knew Chelsea would never let that one go. When I got home I put the kerosene into the lantern which, of course, was the solution to a simple problem that I overcomplicated.

This is a mundane example of a profound truth: we make mistakes as humans. Worse yet, some people put words in God’s mouth that He never used. “My God is a God of love – He wouldn’t condemn me just for this one little sin.” “God doesn’t care if we live the way we want.” Some use phrases like this with great confidence while overlooking an obvious truth: God has told us what He does and does not care about in His word.

If we aren’t in the word listening to God and allowing Him to change us, our solutions will end in failure. There was only one solution to keep that flame going in my lantern. There is only one right way to follow God, and He’s told us how to do that! Life will be so much easier for those who look to God for answers before relying on their own wisdom.

 

To War With The Waves

Dale Pollard

One of the strangest moments in Roman history probably belongs to crazy Caligula. Why? Well, he’s the emperor who  declared war on the sea. 

This wasn’t a battle on the sea, this was a battle with the sea.  

According to the Roman historian Suetonius in The Twelve Caesars, Caligula marched his legions to the coast of Gaul around A.D. 40 and he formed his soldiers in battle lines facing the water.

Then he gives a command— attack! 

The troops were ordered to stab the waves and hurl javelins into the surf. Afterward, Caligula reportedly instructed them to gather seashells as “spoils of war”—from Neptune (Rome’s god of the sea). 

Was the story exaggerated? It’s possible. Even if the only truth to the tale was that a man waged war against the ocean it still provides the perfect illustration for many things in life. The illusion of human power, being one of them. An emperor who ruled millions could command armies, raise your taxes, and build monuments — but he couldn’t slay the sea. The ocean didn’t retreat and the waves did not surrender.

The Bible tells us who has sovereignty over the waters:

“Who shut up the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb… when I said, ‘This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt” (Job 38:8–11)? 

God reminds humanity that only He sets boundaries for the ocean. Kings may flex, and armies might rage, but the tide answers to no one but Him.

Caligula’s strange spectacle at the beach becomes sort of a  parable doesn’t it? When humans attempt to assert divine authority over creation, they expose their limits. A lesson nobody ever wants to learn is that power without humility turns into absurdity. Or, to put it another way; authority without submission is self-parody.

The sea still keeps its boundaries, not because an emperor commanded it— but because God did.

Trust In Trials

Carl Pollard

Daniel was a faithful servant of God. No matter the circumstances, he would put his trust in God. Let us look at how Daniel was faithful to God in all times.

We see Daniel being faithful to God in trials. The other wise men in the kingdom were jealous of Daniel and wanted to have him killed. So they went to the king and asked for a decree to be made that only the king could be prayed to. Daniel trusted in God even though he could have faced dire consequences if he prayed to God. “When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously. Then these men came by agreement and found Daniel making petition and plea before his God. Then the king commanded, and Daniel was brought and cast into the den of lions. The king declared to Daniel, “May your God, whom you serve continually, deliver you!” And a stone was brought and laid on the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet and with the signet of his lords, that nothing might be changed concerning Daniel.” Daniel 6:10-11, 16-17 shows us that even though the king banned prayer to God, Daniel still put his trust in God. 

In our lives today do we show this kind of faith and trust in God? Do we understand the consequences, but stick with God? Many today have a faith that is dependent on the circumstances. But we must be like Daniel. Have a full trust in God to deliver us in our trials and understand that He is in control. 

Romans 13: Respect Caesar, Surrender to Christ

Brent Pollard

Christians often experience an inner tension when considering their relationship with civil government. We belong to a heavenly kingdom whose values frequently stand in sharp contrast to the world around us, yet we remain citizens of earthly nations—subject to laws, rulers, and civic obligations that demand our attention and participation. Scripture does not ignore this tension. Instead, God’s Word provides principles that help believers navigate their dual citizenship with clarity, humility, and unwavering faith.

The apostle Paul reminds us that entering the brotherhood of Christ does not sever our connection to the broader human community. While the church thrives on humility and sacrificial love, the civil sphere requires submission to authority and the pursuit of justice toward our fellow citizens. Far from being contradictory, these obligations are complementary expressions of Christian discipleship lived out in the real world.

Why Christians Should Submit to Government: The Practical Case (Romans 13.1-4)

Paul opens his instruction with a command that echoes through the centuries: “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities” (Romans 13.1). This is not blind compliance but thoughtful, conscientious obedience rooted in practical wisdom.

At the most basic level, civil government exists to accomplish specific purposes: promoting order, restraining wrongdoing, and encouraging what is beneficial to society. “For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad,” Paul writes. “Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval” (Romans 13.3). Laws—when rightly administered—serve the common good, providing the stability and protection necessary for human flourishing.

Think of it this way: A ship requires a captain, a household requires order, and a society requires governance. Without structure, chaos reigns. Roads crumble, courts fail, emergency services disappear, and defense collapses. These necessities do not materialize from thin air—they require resources, planning, and the coordinated effort that only organized government can provide.

It is reasonable, then, for Christians to obey the law in their general conduct. Lawful behavior benefits both the individual and the community. Similarly, paying taxes and other civic dues is not merely a burden imposed by the state but a contribution toward maintaining public order and security (Romans 13.6-7).

Yet Scripture presses us beyond mere outward compliance. Paul speaks of rendering “to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed” (Romans 13.7). Even in civil matters, the heart must be engaged. Respect for authority is not simply about avoiding penalties; it reflects an inner disposition shaped by reverence and integrity. Mechanical obedience—though better than rebellion—falls short of what God expects from His children.

The Higher Foundation: God’s Sovereignty Over All Authority (Romans 13.1-2)

While practical reasoning can justify civic obedience—the desire to avoid fines and penalties—the Christian’s motivation runs far deeper. Submitting to governing authorities is not just sensible; it is divinely commanded. Paul declares the foundation plainly: “For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment” (Romans 13.1-2).

This is the bedrock truth that transforms civic duty from pragmatic necessity into spiritual worship: God Himself stands behind human authority. The Old Testament confirms this reality throughout its pages. Job declares that God “makes nations great, and destroys them; He enlarges nations, and leads them away” (Job 12.23). Daniel proclaims that “the Most High rules the kingdom of men and gives it to whom he will” (Daniel 4.25; see also Daniel 2:21). Even pagan rulers exercise power only because God, in His inscrutable wisdom, has permitted it.

Nebuchadnezzar learned this lesson the hard way. This mighty king was humbled—literally driven to eat grass like an animal—until he acknowledged that “the Most High rules in the kingdom of men and gives it to whom He will” (Daniel 4.32). Jesus Himself reminded Pontius Pilate, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above” (John 19.11).

These passages confront us with a stunning reality: No government rises or falls apart from God’s providence. Authority is not a purely human invention or the result of social contracts alone. It exists because God, in His sovereign wisdom, has ordained the structures necessary to maintain order in a fallen world. To resist lawful authority without biblical cause, therefore, is not merely to defy human institutions but to rebel against the divine order God has established.

This does not mean that every action of every ruler is morally right or that Christians owe absolute obedience to human commands. Scripture itself records moments when obedience to God required civil disobedience—when Peter declared, “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5.29), or when Hebrew midwives defied Pharaoh’s infanticide (Exodus 1.17). But these are exceptions that prove the rule. The default posture of the believer is submission, not suspicion; respect, not rebellion; honor, not contempt.

How to Honor Imperfect Rulers: Seeing God’s Hand in Human Government (Romans 13.4)

Perhaps the most challenging aspect of Paul’s teaching is learning to see God’s hand at work in imperfect—even deeply flawed—human institutions. This requires spiritual vision that penetrates beyond the visible to the invisible.

Rulers are fallible. Governments make unjust decisions. Leaders disappoint us. Yet Paul wrote these very words to Christians living under Nero, one of history’s most despicable tyrants, a man who would soon ignite the first great persecution of the church. Still, Paul calls him “God’s servant for your good” and “the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer” (Romans 13.4).

How can this be? Because God’s purposes transcend human wickedness. He uses even unjust rulers to accomplish His sovereign will—sometimes through their good actions, sometimes despite their evil ones. Joseph understood this when he told his brothers, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good” (Genesis 50.20). God’s ability to work all things together for His glory does not excuse human sin, but it does mean that no human ruler operates outside the boundaries of divine providence.

This perspective transforms how we engage with civil authority. When Christians obey the law, pay their taxes, and show honor to those in positions of leadership, they do so not merely for pragmatic reasons or from servile fear, but as an act of reasonable service. Paul emphasizes this: “Therefore one must be in subjection, not only to avoid God’s wrath but also for the sake of conscience” (Romans 13.5). Civic responsibility becomes a spiritual discipline. The ordinary duties of citizenship are transformed into opportunities to glorify God.

This biblical vision guards us against two opposite errors. On one side, we avoid the idolatry of placing ultimate hope in governments, political parties, or charismatic leaders. On the other side, we reject the cynicism that treats all authority with contempt and every civic obligation with resentment. Instead, we acknowledge government’s limited but real role under God’s greater rule, participating faithfully while keeping our ultimate citizenship in heaven (Philippians 3.20).

Living as Citizens of Two Kingdoms: Practical Steps for Today

The Christian life does not retreat from the public square—it redeems it. Just as Paul instructs us to do everything “to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10.31), our civic engagement is part of our Christian walk. Here are practical ways to live out Romans 13 in our daily lives:

First, cultivate a posture of respect. Even when you disagree with policies or disapprove of leaders, maintain respectful speech and behavior. Remember that God has placed them in authority, however temporarily (1 Timothy 2.1-2).

Second, fulfill your civic duties faithfully. Pay your taxes honestly and completely. Obey traffic laws. Serve on juries when called. Vote thoughtfully and prayerfully. These mundane acts become sacred when done “as to the Lord” (Colossians 3.23).

Third, pray consistently for those in authority. Paul commands us to pray “for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way” (1 Timothy 2.2). Prayer acknowledges God’s sovereignty while interceding for His purposes in government.

Fourth, know when to say no. While submission is the rule, obedience to God takes precedence when human laws directly contradict divine commands. But let this be a last resort, exercised with wisdom, humility, and willingness to accept the consequences (Acts 5.29; Daniel 3.16-18).

Finally, maintain your eternal perspective. Governments will rise and fall. Political parties will gain and lose power. Leaders will come and go. But the throne of heaven remains unshaken. Our hope rests not in Washington, London, or any earthly capital, but in the New Jerusalem where Christ reigns eternally.

The Christian Difference in a Polarized Age

In an era of bitter political polarization, pervasive mistrust of institutions, and constant outrage, Christians have a unique opportunity to model a radically different spirit—one marked by humility, respect, and unshakable confidence in God’s sovereignty.

We can disagree without demonizing. We can advocate without idolizing. We can submit without compromising our ultimate allegiance to Christ. This is not weakness but strength—the strength that comes from knowing that “the king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will” (Proverbs 21.1).

Paul’s words in Romans 13 invite us into this paradox: We submit to earthly authority precisely because we belong to a heavenly kingdom. We honor human rulers precisely because we worship the King of Kings. We engage politically precisely because our citizenship is ultimately elsewhere.

And because God reigns—truly reigns, not as a distant concept but as the living Lord who governs nations and guides history—His people can submit without fear, obey without resentment, and honor without compromise, trusting that the Most High still rules in the kingdom of men.

This is how Christians navigate the tension between heaven and earth: not by escaping the world, but by bringing the kingdom’s values into it; not by grasping for power, but by wielding influence through faithful presence; not by placing ultimate hope in any government, but by honoring all governments under the Government of God Himself.

In this way, even our relationship with earthly authorities becomes a testimony to the reign of our heavenly King.

The Danger of Tradition: When Human Custom Replaces God’s Word

Brent Pollard

The Unexpected Birth of a Christmas Tradition

Christmas Day 2025 has already passed. In Japan, where Shinto and Buddhism are part of daily life, Jesus Christ is often seen as just one deity among many—if acknowledged at all. As a result, most Japanese do not observe Christmas as a religious holiday on December 25. Instead, the holiday has become a romantic occasion for couples, more like Valentine’s Day than a Nativity celebration. Interestingly, since the 1970s, a tradition has persisted: to properly celebrate Christmas in Japan, people should eat fried chicken, especially from KFC.

This story shows how easily tradition can take hold in fertile ground. Takeshi Okawara, Japan’s first KFC manager, allegedly heard foreigners complain that turkey was hard to find in Japan, so they had to settle for chicken during Christmas. This casual remark inspired an idea. Okawara saw a chance to promote “party barrels” as the perfect Christmas celebration. Since Japan didn’t have strong Christmas customs, KFC found a valuable niche in the food industry, which was exactly what the franchise needed to grow.

How Marketing Became Tradition

In 1974, KFC Japan introduced its famous Kurisumasu ni wa Kentakkii! campaign—”Kentucky for Christmas!” The campaign’s success surpassed expectations. By 2019, around 5% of KFC Japan’s yearly revenue came from Christmas sales. During the holidays, customers must pre-order their party barrels weeks ahead since they sell out fast. Long lines form outside locations featuring Colonel Sanders statues dressed as Santa Claus, blending commercial symbols in a way that might surprise Western observers.

If you asked the Japanese about their Christmas tradition, they’d surely say fried chicken is the holiday’s proper food. Many are surprised to learn Americans eat turkey, not KFC, on Christmas. Interestingly, young Japanese now prefer KFC for Christmas because their grandparents started this practice long ago. In only 51 years, what started as a marketing stunt has become a genuine part of Japanese culture.

The Innocence of Cultural Misunderstanding

Japan’s misinterpretation of Christmas customs is harmless—simply a mistaken understanding of cultural practices far removed from their roots. However, this highlights a deeper spiritual risk that requires our careful reflection. We tend to be creatures of habit, often confusing familiarity with genuine faithfulness. What starts as an innovation by one generation can quickly become a duty for the next, leading us to forget to question whether our actions are truly aligned with the truth.

When Jesus Confronted Tradition

However, some customs require our careful attention. Jesus Christ sharply criticized the religious leaders of His era because they forsook God’s commandments to prioritize their traditions (Matthew 15:3; Mark 7:8-9, 13). His words resonate through time: “You are experts at setting aside the commandment of God in order to keep your tradition.” (Mark 7.9 NASB95)

If you had asked these leaders about their practices, they probably would have confidently claimed that their traditions fully aligned with Moses’ Law. These customs, after all, had been preserved through generations of faithful Jews, supported by the weight of history and validated by respected teachers. Certainly, this alone demonstrated their legitimacy.

The Sovereignty of God’s Word Over Human Custom

Yet Jesus, with divine authority, revealed how these traditions deviated from His Father’s original commands. This offers a serious warning to all generations of believers. God’s sovereignty extends not only to salvation but to every aspect of worship and obedience. We do not decide what pleases God through majority opinion or tradition. God has spoken, and His Word alone is authoritative (2 Timothy 3.16-17).

The Pharisees believed that their detailed fence laws safeguarded God’s commands, but in reality, these traditions became obstacles that kept people from approaching God as He intended. They overlooked—or never understood—that God requires genuine obedience, not just the outward observance of religious rituals (1 Samuel 15.22; Hosea 6:6).

The Call to Examine Our Own Practices

This is more than just a history lesson for our curiosity. Let us take the core message of the application: Which traditions have we accepted uncritically? What practices do we maintain just because they have always been done that way, rather than because of the commands or approval in Scripture?

We need to regularly reassess our traditions and practices to confirm they reflect the truth—Jesus Himself stated that God’s Word is truth (John 17.17). The religious leaders during Jesus’ era were so immersed in their traditions that they failed to recognize how far they had strayed from God’s revealed will. Today, we encounter the same risk.

Practical Steps for Guarding Against Empty Tradition

We shouldn’t just recognize this danger; we need to take concrete measures to protect against it. This is advice for every Christian who aims to worship God in spirit and truth (John 4.24):

Begin by cultivating the habit of asking, “Where is this written?” When someone claims that a practice is vital to Christian faith or worship, consult the Scriptures to verify if it truly is (Acts 17.11). The Bereans were praised not for blindly accepting teachings but for diligently testing them against God’s Word.

Second, differentiate clearly between issues of faith and issues of opinion. Romans 14 directly addresses this, indicating that certain practices are explicitly commanded or forbidden and must be followed. Other issues are part of Christian liberty, allowing sincere believers to hold different views without opposing God’s will. Confusing these categories can result in legalism or license—both serious mistakes.

Third, understand that sincerity alone does not justify mistakes. The Pharisees sincerely believed their traditions honored God. However, genuine sincerity does not turn disobedience into obedience or human customs into divine laws. As Proverbs 14.12 NASB95 states, “There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”

The Spiritual Reality Behind Religious Performance

Religious tradition often serves as a substitute for a genuine relationship with God. It is much simpler to follow inherited rituals than to develop a meaningful connection with the living God. While tradition calls for mere conformity, authentic worship requires transformation.

Reflect on how we often find comfort in familiar routines. The Pharisees felt secure in their traditions because these practices were predictable, controllable, and measurable. They could simply check off requirements and think they were righteous, all while neglecting God’s Word in their hearts. Jesus highlighted this superficial religiosity: “This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far away from me. But in vain do they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men” (Matthew 15.8-9 NASB95).

The Origin and Significance of Our Traditions

It’s crucial to honestly consider where our traditions originate and what they truly mean. Are they rooted in Scripture, or have they developed through cultural choices, historical happenstance, or well-meaning but unauthorized changes?

Some traditions are simply matters of convenience or custom—neither mandated nor prohibited by Scripture. We may choose to keep or change them based on wisdom. However, when tradition conflicts with Scripture or supersedes God’s actual commands, we must have the courage to set aside human traditions and follow divine authority.

The religious leaders Jesus challenged had broken God’s clear commandments by following their own traditions. He pointed out their use of “Corban”—a practice where resources were declared dedicated to God to bypass the fifth commandment’s demand to honor parents (Mark 7.10-13). Despite this apparent contradiction to God’s Law, they vigorously defended their tradition. It shows how easily tradition can blind us!

Ensuring Our Customs Serve Rather Than Supplant Truth

We need to stay alert to make sure customs do not mask the true intent of our actions. This awareness calls for more than just occasional checks—it requires ongoing dedication from hearts committed to Scripture’s authority. We must uphold the principle that Scripture alone should be the ultimate authority in faith and practice.

Reflect on these important questions: If all traditions were taken away, would your faith stay strong because it is based on God’s Word? Or would losing familiar practices make you feel lost and uncertain? Are you worshipping God in line with His revealed will, or just following the accepted ideas of past generations?

The Jerusalem church encountered this challenge when tradition risked overshadowing truth. Jewish Christians, ingrained in ancient practices, found it difficult to accept that Gentile converts did not have to follow ceremonial laws to be saved. God intervened to clarify that salvation is by grace, not by obeying traditional rules (Acts 15.1-29; Galatians 2.15-16).

The Freedom Found in Scriptural Authority

Here’s a liberating truth: By grounding our faith and actions in Scripture rather than tradition, we find freedom rather than limitations. God’s Word serves as a lamp to guide us and a light to illuminate our path (Psalm 119.105). His commands are not burdensome but bring life (1 John 5.3). Letting go of unapproved traditions allows us to open our hands and receive what God truly intends to give.

The Japanese will keep celebrating Christmas with KFC, unaware that this fifty-year-old tradition isn’t linked to actual Christmas customs. While this harmless confusion causes no harm, problems arise when religious tradition replaces divine command and human customs overshadow biblical truth. In such cases, the core foundation of faith is compromised.

Walking in Truth Rather Than Tradition

Let’s honestly assess our hearts and actions. Instead of asking “What have we always done?” we should focus on “What has God commanded?” We should seek worship rooted in Scripture rather than sentiment, doctrine grounded in revelation rather than routine, and obedience driven by love for God rather than mere human expectations.

As we transition from this Christmas season into the new year, let us renew our commitment to the primacy of Scripture. May we find the courage to let go of traditions that oppose God’s Word, wisdom to preserve practices that align with His purposes, and discernment to distinguish between them. Ultimately, our accountability is to God, who has spoken plainly through His Word and calls us to obey Him rather than human traditions (Acts 5.29).

When Jude Quoted Books God Didn’t Write

Twenty-five verses. That’s all Jude needed to expose false teachers, rally believers, and deliver one of Scripture’s mightiest doxologies. Yet within this compact letter lie two startling citations—neither from Moses, the prophets, nor the Psalms, but from Jewish apocryphal writings. Why would an inspired writer quote uninspired sources?

Brent Pollard

Twenty-five verses. That’s all Jude needed to expose false teachers, rally believers, and deliver one of Scripture’s mightiest doxologies. Yet within this compact letter lie two startling citations—neither from Moses, the prophets, nor the Psalms, but from Jewish apocryphal writings. Why would an inspired writer quote uninspired sources?

The Arrogance That Mocks What It Cannot See

Jude writes his general epistle with a sense of urgency. False teachers have misused grace to justify immoral behavior and show disrespect for authority. By verse 8, their pride has become demonic, and they “speak evil of dignitaries,” which most likely refers to angelic beings. Jude does not intend to promote the worship of angels; instead, he warns against hubris. These false teachers behaved as if they had authority over realms they did not have, and that is the pride Jude exposes. Therefore, these men slander realities beyond their understanding.

To expose such folly, Jude reaches for an unlikely illustration.

When Even Angels Know Their Limits

Jewish tradition, preserved in the Assumption of Moses, tells of Michael the archangel disputing with Satan over Moses’ body. The devil claimed ownership—perhaps because Moses had killed an Egyptian, perhaps because Satan styled himself lord of the earth.

Michael’s response? He refused to pronounce judgment on his own authority. Though heaven’s chief warrior, he simply said, “The Lord rebuke you.”

Here is Jude’s blade: If Michael—commander of celestial armies—dared not revile even Satan, what business have mortals mocking spiritual powers they neither respect nor understand?

True strength bows before God’s sovereignty. Pride pretends to authority it does not possess.

The Prophet Who Saw Judgment Coming

Jude then quotes 1 Enoch, a Jewish apocalyptic text known to his audience:

“Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His holy ones, to execute judgment upon all, and to convict all who are ungodly of all their ungodly deeds.”

This inclusion is no blanket endorsement of Enoch’s book any more than Paul’s citations of pagan poets made them Scripture. Instead, the Spirit guided Jude to extract one true statement—a warning echoing throughout divine revelation—and press it into service for eternal purposes.

God can take a fragment of human tradition and forge it into revealed truth without sanctifying its source.

How Inspiration Actually Works

Jude’s method reveals three vital principles:

1. Authority lies in God’s selection, not the source’s pedigree.

The Spirit determines what enters Scripture. Truth remains truth wherever it appears, but only God’s breath makes it authoritative. Jude’s quotes became inspired not because of their origin, but because God chose them.

2. God meets people where they live.

Jude’s Jewish Christian readers knew these traditions. Using familiar examples, he illustrated the truth vividly. We do the same, quoting, say, Shakespeare or Einstein—not to canonize them, but to communicate clearly.

3. The message matters infinitely more than the medium.

Both stories serve one purpose: to contrast human arrogance with divine authority and to warn that God judges all rebellion.

Three Applications for Your Life Today

First, guard your tongue when speaking of spiritual realities.

If Michael, who stands before God’s throne, refused to speak presumptuously, how much more should we? Reverence isn’t weakness; it’s wisdom. Before you dismiss spiritual truths or mock what you don’t understand, remember who you’re dealing with.

Second, rest in the certainty of God’s judgment.

False teachers may flourish now. Arrogance may strut across platforms. But Enoch’s prophecy stands: God will judge every ungodly deed. Your job isn’t to play God. It’s to trust Him.

Third, quote wisely, but verify everything.

You’ll find truth scattered across literature, philosophy, and even secular observation. Quote it when it serves God’s truth. But never confuse a helpful quote with Scripture’s authority. Test everything against the Word (1 Thessalonians 5:21). All other lights are dim candles held up to Scripture’s blazing sun.

The Weight of a Short Letter

Don’t mistake brevity for shallowness. In twenty-five verses, Jude wields ancient tradition, angelic authority, and divine judgment to demolish pride and call the church back to truth.

Michael’s humility rebukes the arrogant. Enoch’s prophecy warns the rebellious. Together they sound Jude’s central note: “Contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.”

In a world drowning in opinions, that call has never been more urgent.

God has spoken. The question is whether we’ll listen with the humility of angels or the arrogance of fools.

The difference is eternal.

Even when he quotes from outside Scripture, Jude points us back to Scripture’s heart—the unchanging authority of God and the sure destiny of all who defy it.

Don’t Be Fooled

The real battle we face is not flesh and blood (Ephesians 6.12). We shouldn’t be surprised to find that the world is filled with people who are…

Dale Pollard

In the Screwtape Letters, written by C.S. Lewis, there’s an interesting part in the fourth letter. Uncle Screwtape is a demon writing to his nephew, Wormwood. He’s giving him advice on how to ensure the spiritual failure of his “patient” which is the term used for the human that each demon is assigned. He tells Wormwood,

“Be sure that the patient remains completely fixated on politics. Arguments, political gossip, and obsessing on the faults of people they have never met serve as an excellent distraction from advancing in personal virtue, character, and the things the patient can control. Make sure to keep the patient in a constant state of angst, frustration, and general disdain towards the rest of the human race to avoid any kind of charity or inner peace from further developing. Ensure the patient continues to believe that the problem is ‘out there’ in the ‘broken system’ rather than recognizing that there is a problem within himself. Keep up the good work,
Uncle Screwtape.”

Though Lewis wasn’t quoting the Bible, he certainly ties in biblical principles. The real battle we face is not flesh and blood (Ephesians 6.12). We shouldn’t be surprised to find that the world is filled with people who are “lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people” (2 Timothy 3.1-5). Don’t forget who the enemy is and don’t let the distractions of the world convince you that the fight is anything other than a spiritual one.

No Ordinary Man, No Ordinary Story

Neal Pollard

The tribune (commander), in charge of the Roman regiment posted at Jerusalem, rescues Paul from the Jewish mob in Acts 21. He proves an interesting character, exposed to the local plots and intrigues and familiar with the temperamental behavior of the local Jews. He could have been a foreigner in the eyes of the Empire who earned the right of citizenship through military service, or perhaps he was a slave freed by his owner and given opportunity to buy his citizenship. His story must have been pretty interesting. We learn that his name is Lysias (23:26; 24:7,22). 

But the man he found even more interesting whose story is equally intriguing is the apostle Paul. He was surprised when he heard this controversial Jewish man speaking Greek (21:37), and he mistook him for an Egyptian revolutionary (21:38). If he understand Hebrew, Lysias would have also heard Paul say that he was highly educated (22:3) and a former persecutor of the way he now preached and promoted (22:3-5). He would have discovered that Paul had a supernatural encounter with Jesus on Damascus Road (22:6-9), instructed by Him to go to the city and wait until ultimately a man named Ananias came and told him what Jesus wanted him to do: (1) Immediately arise and be baptized to wash away his sins (22:16) and (2) Be Jesus’ witness to everyone, but especially to the Gentiles (22:15,17-21). The Jewish mob, who understood everything Paul was saying, threatened to attack Paul upon hearing he was offering salvation to Gentiles (22:22-23). So, Lysias had to isolate Paul from the crowd in the barracks (22:24). Seeing Paul as this huge enigma, Lysias decides to chain Paul, flog him, and beat information out of him (22:24-25). This is when Paul tells a centurion that what he was about to do was illegal. He was a Roman citizen (22:25-26). Then, Lysias finds out that Paul was a free-born citizen, meaning his parents were citizens before him. That obviously impresses and frightens the tribune, since he had acted illegally against Paul. What we read next (22:30ff) shows us that Lysias is extremely curious to get the root of this riot and know more of this fascinating man’s story.

But as fascinating as Lysias was and even more fascinating as Paul surely was, the truly extraordinary man with the extraordinary story was the man Paul was persecuted for declaring–the Son of Man! This “Jesus of Nazareth” (22:8), “Lord” (22:8,10), and “Righteous One” (22:14) had changed a man so accomplished and impressive as Paul, and Paul had been transforming lives and saving souls by preaching and teaching Him throughout the known world. The story of God in the flesh, living among His creation, dying for them, and being raised for their justification, who now was back in heaven, is the most extraordinary of all. Its implications are eternal! 

Perhaps you have lived a fascinating life and can wow people with your story. But, God has you here to share His story and to help transform the life and change the story of people destined to stand before Him some day. It’s a story too good to keep to ourselves! 

On the Mountain or on the Plain? A Clear Understanding of Jesus’ Sermons in Matthew 5-7 and Luke 6.20-49.

Brent Pollard

Throughout human history, there are moments when eternity meets time—when the divine voice breaks through earthly noise with clarity that future generations will recognize. One such moment was when Jesus of Nazareth, the Word made flesh, ascended the hills of Galilee to deliver a profoundly transformative sermon.

Picture the scene in first-century Palestine, where a diverse crowd gathers—not only to observe but to seek truth, find solace from the burdens of religious facades, and heal from the pain of Roman oppression and spiritual emptiness. They long for what their scribes and Pharisees cannot provide: genuine hope, fundamental transformation, and a direct message from God.

The Setting: Mountain and Plain as One Theater

Skeptics may view this as a contradiction, while thoughtful believers see it as the intricate beauty of divine revelation through human witnesses. Matthew mentions a mountain, and Luke describes a plain. This illustrates that divine wisdom offers us not a single rigid narrative, but a range of perspectives that together provide a fuller understanding.

Imagine the hill country of Galilee, where the mountains are gentle slopes topped with flat plateaus—ideal natural amphitheaters for a teacher. Jesus, a master communicator, seeks out this setting. He stands with His disciples on level ground, allowing His voice to reach the gathered crowd.

Deeper factors are at play here. It is fitting that the One who connects heaven and earth, making the lofty accessible to the humble, would share His kingdom manifesto from a place that symbolizes both mountain and plain. This setting is not just a coincidence; it is a deliberate symbol. Christ’s message is both elevated—rooted in divine insight—and open to all who wish to listen.

The Message: One Truth, Multiple Tellings

Let’s pause to reflect on an essential aspect of divine revelation. Are we discussing a single sermon or two distinct ones? This question shows our tendency to view God’s revelations as a unified whole. For example, when musicians perform a grand symphony in different concert halls, are they presenting one symphony or separate performances? The answer is both.

Jesus, the most remarkable Teacher in history, recognized that to share a meaningful truth, He must repeat, adapt, and present it anew for each audience. As He spoke to congregations across Galilee, He consistently revisited His core messages, tailoring them to resonate with different hearts and diverse needs in the unique moments of His ministry.

This is a remarkable gift! Matthew addresses Jewish believers by echoing Moses’ proclamation of the law from Mount Sinai, presenting Jesus as the new and greater lawgiver who fulfills sacred promises rather than abolishing them. In contrast, Luke, with his compassionate focus on the marginalized and Gentile readers, highlights God’s unique care for the forgotten and forsaken.

The Heart of Both Accounts: Revolutionary Love

Whether we examine Matthew’s detailed account or Luke’s brief narrative, a common transformative message shines through, resembling the dawn illuminating the hills of Galilee. This is not just a moral lesson or a philosophical debate; it is the proclamation of a kingdom that operates on principles distinctly different from the kingdoms of this world.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit,” Jesus proclaims, shaking the foundations of the established order. In a society that values power, achievement, and independence, Christ highlights the significance of a humble spirit. This humility isn’t about material poverty; instead, it’s the fortunate acknowledgment of our deep need for God, which He sees as essential for His kingdom.

“Love your enemies,” He commands, highlighting a tension between divine principles and human justice. This profound truth reveals that loving those who hurt us embodies God’s essence, as He bestows blessings on both the righteous and the unrighteous.

Reflect on the profound reasoning behind this idea. If we only love those who love us back, what value does that hold? Even tax collectors, the most despised individuals in Jesus’ time, practice this fundamental reciprocity. Kingdom love, however, mirrors our heavenly Father; it offers grace to the ungracious, mercy to the unmerciful, and blessings to those who curse us.

The Foundation That Cannot Be Shaken

Jesus masterfully concludes His profound sermon with a timeless image that has both haunted and comforted believers for two millennia: the story of two builders. One builds on solid ground, while the other builds on unstable terrain. When storms inevitably arrive, only one house withstands the test.

Now is the time to show genuine compassion. Many of us have built our lives on seemingly solid foundations—career achievements, personal relationships, financial security, and religious beliefs—only to see them collapse when faced with life’s inevitable challenges. A divorce can shatter our faith in lasting commitment, job loss can expose our reliance on worldly resources, and a health diagnosis reminds us of the fragility of our carefully constructed lives.

The hope presented in this timeless parable is remarkable. There is an unshakable foundation, a rock that withstands any storm—Jesus Christ. His words hold the creative power that formed the universe, and His promises resonate with the weight of eternity.

Living the Great Reversal

Jesus’ teachings from the hillside—whether delivered on one occasion or many, on a mountain or on flat land—reveal the profound transformation of His kingdom. The last will become first, the humble will be lifted, the grieving will find comfort, the hungry will be satisfied, and those who show mercy will receive mercy in return.

This is not merely sound advice; it reflects the reality seen by God, illustrating how things truly are in His kingdom, both now and in the future. Embracing principles like loving our enemies, blessing those who curse us, giving generously, and forgiving freely does not make us unrealistic idealists. Instead, it keeps us practical, aligning our lives with the true nature of existence in God’s universe.

The Call That Echoes Still

The crowds that once gathered on the hillside in Galilee may have faded into dust, but the words of Jesus endure. Each generation faces the same choice: Will we build our lives on the shaky foundations of worldly wisdom, or will we ground ourselves firmly in the solid rock of Christ’s teachings?

The skeptic wrestles with the differences between Matthew’s mountain and Luke’s plain, questioning whether Christ spoke once or multiple times. In contrast, the disciple sees something more profound: the steadfastness of grace, the reliability of truth, and the enduring nature of the One whose words remain timeless.

It’s uncertain whether Jesus conveyed these truths on a single occasion or throughout His ministry. However, this ambiguity enriches our understanding, regardless of whether His teachings are found in one account or multiple instances, their transformative power remains constant.

The exact location of Jesus, whether on a hillside or flat ground, matters less than our openness to listen to His voice and follow His guidance. His kingdom continues to transform the world for all who are willing to believe.

Come now, weary builder. Bring your broken foundations and lost aspirations. The Rock continues to provide a reliable foundation. The Teacher continues to call. The kingdom continues to embrace the downtrodden, offers solace to the grieving, and fulfills the desires of those yearning for justice.

His words endure. His promise remains. His love never gives up.

Build on the Rock.

“I Am Not The Christ”

The apostle John introduces us to the work of John the Baptist by sharing the contentious back and forth between the priests and Levites and this preacher. The Pharisees had sent these leaders from Jerusalem to ascertain who this unconventional, but popular, preacher was.

Neal Pollard

The apostle John introduces us to the work of John the Baptist by sharing the contentious back and forth between the priests and Levites and this preacher. The Pharisees had sent these leaders from Jerusalem to ascertain who this unconventional, but popular, preacher was. He confessed, “I am not the Christ” (John 1:21). His circumstances were somewhat different from anyone else. His express job was to come as a forerunner, a herald to prepare people for Jesus’ coming. 

But he was not the last person who needed to acknowledge that truth. 

What about church leaders and servants? It can be easy to develop a Messiah Complex, seeing ourselves as people’s saviors. Whether they come for counsel or attach themselves to us for spiritual guidance, role confusion can happen easily–not just for the receiver, but also for the giver. We may take on their problems and our lives may get out of balance in seeking to help. Others need to understand, as we do, that we are not the Christ. We are His ambassadors (2 Cor. 5:20), but our task is to get them connected to Jesus. He alone can save (Acts 4:12).

What about those in close relationships? Whether a spouse, sibling, children, parent, or friend, one may find himself or herself enabling someone whose problems and issues become their own. We cannot be their conscience, moral compass, warden, or parole officer. We want to help and bear burdens (Gal. 6:2), but at some point each must bear their own load (Gal. 6:5). 

What about me? In a much different sense, I cannot substitute my convictions, feelings, opinions, or preferences for Jesus’ word and will. He has all authority (Mat. 28:18). When it comes to how I live, I don’t get to decide where He has already spoken (John 12:48). 

We can learn a lot from John. He consciously set about to maximize Christ and minimize self (John 3:30). It can be tricky to be a servant of Christ without becoming a substitute for Christ, but that is the challenge! Perhaps it starts with a deliberate effort, praying to remember who we are in God’s scheme of things. But is also means remembering who we are not! 

The Way, The Truth, And The Life

In a world with countless beliefs, how do we know what’s true? Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism are the four most practiced religions globally, with Christianity making up over 33% of the world’s population. Each of these beliefs acknowledges Jesus in some way…

Carl Pollard

In a world with countless beliefs, how do we know what’s true? Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism are the four most practiced religions globally, with Christianity making up over 33% of the world’s population. Each of these beliefs acknowledges Jesus in some way: Islam sees Him as a prophet and Messiah, Buddhists view Him as an enlightened figure, and Hindus consider Him a deity. They all agree—Jesus is worth listening to. But what did Jesus say about Himself? In John 14:6, He says, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” If these religions point to Jesus, and Jesus points only to Himself, that’s a bold claim worth considering! 

This statement comes from Jesus’ farewell talk with His disciples during the Last Supper, recorded in John 13–17. It’s Thursday night, hours before His crucifixion. Judas has left to betray Him, and Jesus is preparing His followers for His death, resurrection, and ascension. He comforts them, saying, “Let not your hearts be troubled… In my Father’s house are many rooms… I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:1–4). But Thomas, confused, asks, “Lord, we don’t know where you’re going. How can we know the way?” Jesus’ response is direct: He is the way, the truth, the life. The Greek words emphasize exclusivity—He’s not a way but the way. This isn’t just for Thomas; it’s for all of us searching for God. 

The Way: Jesus is the only path to God. In November, 1975, seventy-five convicts started digging a secret tunnel designed to bring them up at the other side of the wall of Saltillo Prison in northern Mexico. On April 18, 1976,6 months later, they tunneled up into the nearby courtroom in which many of them had been sentenced. The surprised judges returned all 75 to jail. It helps to know the direction you’re going in life. We can’t find our way to God by guessing or following our gut. Acts 4:12 says, “There is salvation in no one else.” Following Jesus means trusting and obeying Him, walking the narrow path (Matthew 7:14).

The Truth: In a world that says truth is relative, Jesus stands as alētheia, reality itself. He calls us out above the world telling us to “just chase what feels good.” His truth tells us we’re sinners who need a Savior (Romans 3:23) but are loved and forgiven (John 3:16). His truth sets us free (John 8:32).

The Life: Jesus offers “zōē,” abundant, eternal life. Not a life running on empty, but one full of purpose and hope (John 10:10). He proved it by rising from the dead (Revelation 1:18). No job, bank account, or relationship can match that.

The Only Way: Jesus says no one reaches the Father except through Him. In 2025, that’s not popular, but it’s clear. He’s the bridge to God (1 Timothy 2:5). We don’t have to be harsh about it—Jesus loved everyone, and so should we. But love means pointing people to Him.

So what do we do? Follow the Way—trust Jesus, obey the gospel, stay on His path. Live the Truth. Let His teachings guide your life. Share the Life, tell others about Him. Jesus isn’t just a way, truth, or life—He’s THE way, THE truth, THE life. Trust Him, follow Him, and share Him with a world that needs Him now more than ever.

“You’ve Got Mail”

I began preaching full-time in 1992 in a small west Alabama town near the Mississippi border. It was one year before Tim Berners-Lee released the code that became the world wide web, allowing images, video, and audio to be transmitted from servers to computers using existing phone lines. This was more commonly called “dial up.”

Neal Pollard

I began preaching full-time in 1992 in a small west Alabama town near the Mississippi border. It was one year before Tim Berners-Lee released the code that became the world wide web, allowing images, video, and audio to be transmitted from servers to computers using existing phone lines. This was more commonly called “dial up.” For the first three years of my preaching, I typed up Bible classes and sermons (if I didn’t hand write them) on a Brother word processor (it was a typewriter/keyboard attached to a computer monitor). 

Let’s just say that the past 30 years have brought a lot of change in the world of technology. During the ’90s and ’00s, email was king and texting was a complicated, time-consuming, and less desirable alternative. In those days, AOL was the emperor of email. Using a modem (Google it), your computer would connect through the phone and AOL would greet you with, “You’ve got mail” (if you had email). A 1990s movie by that title will give more context to what it was like.

Did you know that dial up internet access is still available? About 160,000 households in America still use it. But on September 30, it will cease. A critical chapter of internet history will be relegated to the museum of technology’s past, like the rotary phone (Google that, too).

I appreciate a few ways this illustrates the work of the church today. First, some changes are desirable and necessary. We can embrace new ways of doing things God preserved in Scripture (Matt. 9:17). As our elders are fond of saying, “We will think outside the box, but inside the Book.” Most of us embraced fiber-optics and satellite, then found dial-up tedious and time-consuming. Old truths can wear new clothes, so long as the truths are not altered (cf. Rev. 22:18-19). See Power Point, newly-written, Scriptural songs and hymns, live-streaming, etc.

Second, while what man creates, invents, and innovates is ever-changing, God’s Word is all-sufficient, timeless, and essential (2 Tim. 3:16-17; Matt. 24:35). No discovery will make it obsolete or irrelevant. It shall stand forever, a rock that cannot be broken or weathered by time or trends (John 10:35). See women’s role (1 Tim. 2:11-15), baptism’s role in salvation (Matt. 28:18-20), the nature of marriage (Eph. 5:31), marriage, divorce, and remarriage (Matt. 19:4-9), etc. 

Third, we should tenaciously defend and fight for truth (Jude 3), but we should take a different tack with tradition. We certainly should not elevate it to be on a par with truth. We must not put it above the truth (Mark 7:6-9). We should not strain relationships and fellowship over matters not “tied down” in Scripture (Romans 14). See Bible translations, modest, but less formal, worship attire, order of worship, etc. 

160,000 households are clinging to dial up until the last possible minute, but then it will be gone. Let’s avoid that spirit when it comes to God’s Word and His work. Where change does not violate God’s will, let us hold it as a matter of indifference. Where the change does violence to it, may we be found nowhere near it! 

Jesus The Light

A few weeks ago, I ordered motion-sensing nightlights from Amazon. They’re not super bright, but their gentle glow keeps me from stumbling over the toys my kids leave scattered across the house. I’m half-convinced they place those blocks strategically to cause maximum damage! Those nightlights, though, are lifesavers. 

Light changes everything.

Carl Pollard

A few weeks ago, I ordered motion-sensing nightlights from Amazon. They’re not super bright, but their gentle glow keeps me from stumbling over the toys my kids leave scattered across the house. I’m half-convinced they place those blocks strategically to cause maximum damage! Those nightlights, though, are lifesavers. 

Light changes everything. It reveals what’s hidden, guides us safely, and offers comfort. A lighthouse directs ships to shore. Headlights illuminate the road ahead. When a strange noise echoes at night, a flick of a switch brings reassurance. Light is security, hope, and power. Sadly, our world grows darker every day. We’re flooded with voices—news alerts, influencers, politicians, even loved ones—competing for our attention. The noise can be overwhelming, drowning out what’s true and steady. Yet, through this chaos, one voice shines clearly: Jesus, proclaiming, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). In a world of distractions and deception, our Savior says He is the way, the truth, the life—a lifeline for us all.

To grasp the weight of Jesus’ words, imagine the scene in John 8. It’s the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem, a week-long celebration of God’s provision for Israel in the wilderness. Each night, massive lampstands illuminated the temple courts, their flames recalling the pillar of fire that guided God’s people (Exodus 13:21-22). These lights symbolized God’s presence and guidance. Amid this glowing backdrop, Jesus stands and declares, “I am the light of the world.” This isn’t subtle. He’s claiming to be the fulfillment of those lamps, the God who led Israel. His Jewish audience understood: Isaiah 60:19 promises, “The Lord will be your everlasting light,” and Psalm 27:1 says, “The Lord is my light and my salvation.” Jesus is saying, “I am that God.”

When Jesus says “I AM,” He echoes God’s name from the burning bush: “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14). Each “I AM” statement in John’s Gospel is a bold claim to divinity. Some argue Jesus never claimed to be God, but His actions tell a different story. He calms storms, as God does in Job 38. He gives sight to the blind, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy. He calls Himself the Good Shepherd, like God in Jeremiah 31. When accused of breaking the Sabbath, He claims to be its Lord (Luke 6), working to sustain creation while we rest. The Jews knew what He meant, accusing Him of blasphemy (John 8:59).

This darkness Jesus speaks of isn’t just poetic—it’s the spiritual reality of a world and heart estranged from God. In John 8, we see it: Pharisees, blind with self-righteousness, ready to stone a woman caught in adultery; the woman, trapped in shame; the crowds, restless for meaning. That’s our world too—chasing success, pleasure, or power, yet left empty. 

Jesus’ light exposes our sin and need, but it also overcomes them. He promises, “Follow me, and you’ll have the light of life.” The blind man in John 9 didn’t just gain sight; he saw Jesus and worshipped (John 9:38). The Pharisees, clinging to pride, stayed blind (John 9:40-41).

So, what do we do? First, recognize your darkness—pride, shame, or chasing what can’t satisfy. Second, follow Jesus daily, trusting His truth over the world’s noise. Finally, reflect His light, forgiving others or sharing the gospel (Matthew 5:14-16). Jesus, the Light of the World, is the God who conquers death and guides us home. 

The darkness is real, but His light is stronger. Will you step into it?

Part 2: Moral Clarity in an Age of Antiheroes (continued)

Today’s society has adopted what the prophet decried: a deliberate shift in moral values. Our entertainment industry, educational institutions, and even certain religious circles increasingly emphasize personal comfort instead of moral integrity and individual authenticity, rather than divine guidance.

Brent Pollard

The Prophetic Warning Against Moral Relativism

In Isaiah 5.20, the warning critiques ancient Israel, denouncing any culture that forsakes divine moral truths. The Hebrew term hoy, meaning “woe,” indicates not just mild concern but a declaration of divine condemnation for those who knowingly distort the moral standards established by God.

Recognizing this context underscores Isaiah’s significance in contemporary entertainment and politics. Similar to how the Judeans rationalized their departure from God’s laws, our society creates complex narratives that validate ethical compromises. The reasoning that caused them to modify their moral standards now encourages us to admire fictional characters who engage in theft, deception, criminal partnerships, or political movements that justify violence as a form of justice.

Today’s society has adopted what the prophet decried: a deliberate shift in moral values. Our entertainment industry, educational institutions, and even certain religious circles increasingly emphasize personal comfort instead of moral integrity and individual authenticity, rather than divine guidance.

The Scripture’s Unwavering Standard

The New Testament reinforces Isaiah’s message. Romans 1.32 warns that those who practice sin “also give hearty approval to those who practice them.” 1 John 3.4 adds, “Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness.” The Greek anomia indicates a deep rejection of divine authority.

When society praises those who defy moral law, it fosters chaos and rebellion. No matter how admirable their intentions may seem, God condemns their deeds.

The Antihero Deception: A Pattern Throughout History

Individuals who defy societal norms for “noble” causes have been lauded throughout history—from Robin Hood and Batman to contemporary antiheroes like Disney’s Ironheart. She constructs her suit using stolen technology and collaborates with criminal organizations to achieve her objectives. Additionally, her character is portrayed as bisexual, a choice that mirrors the cultural agenda.

This highlights a more profound concern: the notion that good intentions can excuse immoral behavior. However, Scripture disagrees. Theft is still considered stealing (Exodus 20.15). Violence is inherently wrong (Matthew 26.52). Corrupt partnerships taint ethical values (1 Corinthians 15.33).

We must not confuse love with chaos. God’s law is rooted in love, and genuine compassion does not justify sin.

The Dangers of Celebrating Moral Compromise

Societies that glorify morally ambiguous figures participate in cultural catechism. This teaching influences hearts and minds with significant repercussions:

  • Moral Absolutes Decay: Entertainment or activism that makes exceptions to God’s commands undermines the concept of absolute truth.
  • Pragmatism Replaces Principle: Compliance is no longer mandatory when outcomes justify actions.
  • Resistance to Authority: Antiheroes frequently succeed by challenging authority, prompting viewers to scrutinize all types of it, including divine authority (Romans 1:18ff).

Scripture provides counterexamples. David refused to kill Saul, even when he could have justified it, since Saul sought to kill him (1 Samuel 24.6). Jesus rebuked Peter for drawing a sword in His defense (Matthew 26.52).

The Authority of Scripture vs. Cultural Trends

We must maintain the authority of the Bible (2 Timothy 3.16-17). This obligation stems from principle rather than tradition. We evaluate cultural trends through Scripture, rather than assessing Scripture against cultural norms.

Peter warned that mockers would pursue their desires (2 Peter 3.3). Likewise, Paul cautioned Timothy about individuals who would turn away from sound doctrine in favor of what satisfies them (2 Timothy 4.2–3).

Teaching Moral Discernment

Christian parents should instruct their children to evaluate media from a biblical perspective. Consider:

  • Is this character committed to following God’s commands regardless of the circumstances?
  • Are sinful acts being celebrated?
  • What if everyone followed this character’s moral logic?

Modeling Consistent Ethics

Children gain the most insights from their parents’ examples. If we justify our minor faults while criticizing similar behaviors in others, we convey that moral standards can be adjusted.

James 1.22 urges us to be doers of the word. That includes how we consume entertainment and participate in politics.

Providing Positive Alternatives

Don’t just say what’s wrong; point to what’s right. Scripture presents heroes who remained faithful under pressure:

  • Daniel in the lion’s den (Daniel 6)
  • Joseph, tempted yet faithful (Genesis 39)
  • Hebrew midwives, who feared God more than Pharaoh (Exodus 1.17)

These individuals suggest that following righteousness may require sacrifices, which is always rewarding.

The Church’s Role

The church must be a prophetic voice. Like Isaiah, we declare “woe” to moral confusion from a place of spiritual integrity, not political power.

Early Christians transformed Rome not through political activism but by living the Gospel (Acts 17.6). So must we.

Conclusion: Holding Fast to Truth

Paul’s charge remains: “Guard… the treasure which has been entrusted to you” (2 Timothy 1.14).

We should not adjust the Bible to fit contemporary views. Instead, we present the truth with love, even if it’s not well-received.

By upholding moral integrity in our heroes, we instill in the next generation the importance of righteousness. Though this narrow path is challenging, it ultimately leads to eternal life (Matthew 7.14).

Selective Skepticism

Could it be that mankind is disturbed by the thought of accountability and submission? Would we rather have our fancy tickled by clairvoyance, black magic, and Martians than have it all explained by special revelation brought about by an Uncaused Cause who not only set things in motion but takes an active role and shows active concern in our individual lives even today?

Neal Pollard

“You don’t think the Bible is historically accurate, do you?”  “Moses didn’t cross the Red Sea.  It was the Reed Sea, only a couple of inches deep.”  “Jesus was a good man, but the Son of God, born of a virgin, resurrected from the dead?  Come on!”  “I just can’t buy that Moses wrote the first five books of the Old Testament.”  “Creation took place in six, literal, 24 hours day? Who believes that?!”  These are some typical questions people ask, and increasingly they are being asked by professed Christians as well as agnostics and atheists.  The concept of a truly limitless God doing the incredible in the unfolding of history and His plan of salvation troubles many.

But, there seems to be an inconsistency if not a contradiction with many of these doubters.  They will claim that they, their family or their friends have had many encounters with the paranormal.  They have seen ghosts or UFOs.  They have “communicated” with “the dead” with Ouija boards or séances.  They go to Palm Readers, read Tarot Cards and tea leaves, or religiously scour their horoscopes to get a bearing on how to plan their future.  They put complete trust in psychics and spiritualism.   They are willing to swallow every “fact” spouted by humanistic, evolutionary scientists.  In fact, a good number of things are simply assumed to be true because of the sources themselves.

Why do these glaring inconsistencies exist?  Because some of this deals with the heart and motives, one must be careful in assessing the “whys.”  However, it is manifest that such a reality prevails.   The Bible talks about the mindset that leads one to put faith in the fanciful all while rejecting the reasonable explanation of God and His ways found in scripture.  Certainly, we can treat the claims of scripture as fairly as we can a crystal ball or a Himalayan guru.

The pagan mind of the average Roman citizen was susceptible to the mystical and the cultic.  Paul writes, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.  For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.  Professing to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures” (Romans 1:18-23).  Ironically, with that worldview as a foundation, immorality of the grossest varieties followed (Romans 1:24-28) as well as unrestrained, chaotic behavior that was violent and destructive (Romans 1:29-31).  Tucked into the middle of this latter list was the fact that such were “haters of God” (30).  Could this be a viable factor?  People might not articulate their personal philosophy in such pungent terms, but what is the consequence of their belief system?  They reject out of hand the idea of the incarnation (literally, “God in the flesh”), a vicarious death (an innocent one dying for the guilty), an objective, normative, and authoritative divine revelation (i.e., that the Bible came from God’s work in guiding men to write down His will to guide all people of all time), and such Bible themes as sin, repentance, redemption, a universal judgment, heaven, and hell.  

Could it be that mankind is disturbed by the thought of accountability and submission?  Would we rather have our fancy tickled by clairvoyance, black magic, and Martians than have it all explained by special revelation brought about by an Uncaused Cause who not only set things in motion but takes an active role and shows active concern in our individual lives even today?  I cannot speak for what drives a person to choose the ethereal over the eternal, but I can counter the fanciful with some basic facts of faith.  Our morality, our spirituality, our drive to have standards of right and wrong, and our yearning to adore and worship cannot be satisfactorily explained by evolution, synapses of the brain, or even inexplicable chance.   In our desire to titillate ourselves with apparitions and interpreting space noise, we have aimed infinitely low.  If we will look up and put our trust in the all-powerful, perfect God and live our lives from that perspective, we unlock for ourselves the portal to peace and the pathway to purpose.  In our heart of hearts, we know that belief in God is the better explanation.  To that end, may we follow our hearts!