Tag: Jesus

“Without You, I Am Empty Inside”

It is written that without the divine, humanity experiences a spiritual emptiness, but through Christ’s grace, a deep fullness is graciously given. Our hearts are like empty vessels—designed to be filled with God’s presence, love, and Spirit. The true and lasting fulfillment we seek can only be found in Him.

Brent Pollard

A Fascinating Motto on a Cardboard Box

My Amazon parcel displayed a curious motto on its outside: “Without you, I am empty inside.” This phrase playfully alludes to the upcoming annual Prime Days in July, but also holds a deeper meaning for me beyond shopping. My father mentioned he might develop the idea into a sermon, and I believed this slogan could inspire an article. So, here we are.

Unpacking the Emotional Significance

Let’s examine this slogan closely, out of its context. The phrase “Without you, I am empty inside” highlights a profound emotional reliance on someone to feel complete or satisfied. At first glance, it clearly expresses deep love, longing, or attachment, implying that the speaker feels incomplete or directionless without the person being addressed. Additionally, it highlights vulnerability and illustrates the profound impact that another person’s presence has on one’s emotional well-being.

When Longing Turns into Dependency

However, it also invites reflection on self-reliance and emotional health. Feeling “empty” without someone might point to dependence on external validation, which can be unhealthy if overdone. It could also mirror genuine affection in a romantic context, but might alternatively highlight vulnerability or a lack of self-identity, depending on the situation.

A Secular Slogan with Sacred Implications

This profound and complex statement conveys a strong sense of emotion and urgency, possibly revealing a search for meaning or harmony. The phrase “Without you, I am empty inside” on a retailer’s box expresses a heartfelt feeling about connection that resonates deeply. While it adds authenticity and uniqueness to the brand, it may lack clarity about the retailer’s offerings or overall tone.

Ultimately, I know Amazon cannot truly fulfill the deeper longings of my soul.

From Emptiness to Fulfillment in Christ

The heartfelt phrase “Without you, I am empty inside” reflects a core spiritual truth: without God, humanity feels a deep emptiness. True fulfillment is only found through connection with the Creator via the Redeemer. This theme runs throughout Scripture—from the chaotic emptiness at the beginning of Genesis to the abundant fulfillment foretold at the end in Revelation.

The Emptiness of Life Without God

Scripture frequently illustrates the desolation that comes with a life separated from God. Ecclesiastes 1.2 states, “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity,” highlighting the emptiness of life without a higher purpose.

Jeremiah 2.13 uses a vivid metaphor: people forsake the “fountain of living waters” in favor of excavating “broken cisterns that can hold no water.” These defective containers symbolize our faulty attempts to find fulfillment apart from the divine.

Proverbs 27:20 observes that “people’s eyes are never satisfied” (HCSB), highlighting the endless human desire for worldly pursuits. Similarly, Genesis 1.2 describes the earth as “formless and void” before God’s presence brought it order and life—symbolizing the soul’s emptiness when separated from Him.

Filled With the Spirit

The New Testament offers a divine solution for human despair through the Holy Spirit residing within us. Ephesians 5.18 urges believers to “be filled with the Spirit,” indicating an ongoing, active pursuit of spiritual growth. In Acts 2.4 and 4.31, we see a striking change in the disciples; empowered by the Spirit, they transitioned from fear to confidence. The Spirit’s presence provides purpose and direction, filling the emptiness with meaning and significance.

This deep sense of fulfillment sharply contrasts with the world’s transient attempts to satisfy the spirit. Acts 4.31 emphasizes that genuine fullness in the Spirit results in bold testimony and divine strength, not futile efforts.

Completeness in Christ

Central to biblical teachings on fullness is Jesus Christ. As Colossians 2.9–10 affirms, “For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, and in Him you have been made complete.” Believers, in the divine embrace, discover they lack nothing in their spiritual path.

2 Corinthians 5.17 declares that those in Christ are “a new creature,” while Ephesians 3.19 encourages us to be “filled up to all the fullness of God.” Philippians 4.19 assures believers that God supplies every need “according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Fulfillment is not just a future hope but a current reality in Christ.

Dependence on God for Satisfaction

Humanity isn’t meant to be self-sufficient, as emphasized in John 15.5: “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” Our connection with the Savior is as essential as a branch’s link to the vine. As 2 Corinthians 12.9 shows, divine strength is fully revealed through our weakness. Psalm 127.1 reminds us that without the Lord, our efforts are ultimately unsuccessful.

Proverbs 3.5–6 encourages us to trust in God fully and warns against relying solely on our own understanding. Genuine contentment comes from surrendering to God’s guidance, not from self-reliance.

God’s Invitation to Satisfaction

The Psalms express a heartfelt longing for the divine and a strong confidence in God’s ability to meet that need. Psalm 42.1 vividly compares the soul’s desire to a deer’s thirst for water. Isaiah 55.1–2 invites those who are thirsty to come and find nourishment in God, contrasting this with the emptiness of worldly pursuits. Psalm 107.9 affirms, “He has satisfied the thirsty soul,” and Psalm 63.1 vividly equates spiritual thirst with a dry, waterless land.

The Contrast of Emptiness and Fullness

In John 10.10, a clear contrast is evident: “The thief comes only to steal and kill, and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” Christ offers abundance, whereas Satan promotes destruction. Matthew 5.6 assures fulfillment for those who seek righteousness earnestly, while John 6.35 portrays Christ as the eternal sustenance, providing lasting satisfaction.

Revelation 7.16 offers a powerful assurance: “They will hunger no longer, nor thirst anymore.” Eternal satisfaction awaits the saved.

Made Whole in Him

The New Testament consistently affirms that believers are made complete in Christ (Colossians 2.10). John 17.23 offers a deep depiction of unity with God, while Ephesians 4.13 encourages us to strive for spiritual growth, reflecting Christ’s essence. The passages from Psalm 16.11 and 36.7–9 eloquently express the joy and richness experienced in God’s presence.

Conclusion

It is written that without the divine, humanity experiences a spiritual emptiness, but through Christ’s grace, a deep fullness is graciously given. Our hearts are like empty vessels—designed to be filled with God’s presence, love, and Spirit. The true and lasting fulfillment we seek can only be found in Him.

Thus, “without you,” my God, “I am empty inside.”

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are taken from the NASB® (New American Standard Bible®, 1995 Updated Edition). Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

The Call To Forgive

Forgiveness is challenging, especially when wounds are deep. Yet Jesus’ words are clear: to experience God’s forgiveness fully, we must extend it to others. Here are three practical ways to live this out…

Carl Pollard

In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus teaches, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” This powerful statement, part of the Sermon on the Mount, underscores the centrality of forgiveness in the Christian life. Take a moment with me to explore its meaning and practical implications for today.

These verses follow the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13), where Jesus instructs His disciples to pray, “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” The Sermon on the Mount outlines the radical ethics of God’s kingdom, emphasizing heart transformation over mere external actions. Forgiveness, Jesus reveals, is not optional but a defining mark of His followers.

The Greek word for “forgive” (*aphiēmi*) means to release or let go, implying a deliberate choice to relinquish resentment or the demand for retribution. Jesus ties our forgiveness of others to God’s forgiveness of us, not as a condition for salvation but as evidence of a transformed heart. The phrase “your heavenly Father will not forgive” warns that harboring unforgiveness disrupts our fellowship with God, as it contradicts His merciful nature (Ephesians 4:32). In the first-century Jewish context, where grudges and vengeance were common, this teaching was unheard of, calling Christian’s to mirror God’s grace.

Forgiveness is challenging, especially when wounds are deep. Yet Jesus’ words are clear: to experience God’s forgiveness fully, we must extend it to others. Here are three practical ways to live this out:

1. Choose to Forgive Daily

    Forgiveness is often a process, not a one-time act. When memories of hurt resurface, pray that God will soften your heart and give you the strength to overcome. This will shift your focus on Him and align your heart with God’s, breaking the grip of bitterness. Consider writing a letter (not to send) expressing your pain, then destroy it as a way of letting go.

    2. Reflect on God’s Mercy

    Meditate on how much God has forgiven you. Ephesians 2:4-5 reminds us that God’s mercy is unending. When we grasp the depth of His grace, forgiving others becomes less about their worthiness and more about His love flowing through us. Spend time in prayer thanking God for His forgiveness to soften your heart toward others.

    3. Seek Reconciliation Wisely

    Forgiveness doesn’t always mean reconciliation, especially in cases of abuse or unrepentant harm. But where possible, take steps toward peace (Romans 12:18). This might mean a conversation to clear misunderstandings or setting healthy boundaries while still releasing resentment.

    Forgiving others frees us from the prison of bitterness, restores our intimacy with God, and reflects His kingdom to a hurting world. By forgiving, we become conduits of God’s grace, transforming relationships and pointing others to Christ. Let’s embrace this call, trusting God to heal our hearts as we release others to Him.

    Origen’s “On First Principles” (Book 1, Ch. 3.1-2)

    Who isn’t amazed by the immense importance of the Holy Spirit when we hear that one who speaks against Christ may be forgiven, but one who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven―not in this world nor in the world to come?

    Gary Pollard

    [Editor’s Note: Gary is translating the Ante-Nicene Fathers works, beginning with Origin’s work. It is meant to update the British English of Roberts and Donaldson. What follows is part of that translation]

    1. Let us now briefly examine the subject of the Holy Spirit. Everyone who acknowledges the existence of Providence (however they think of it) agrees that God―the one who created and ordered all things―is no one’s creation, and recognizes Him as the Father of the universe. The claim that He has a Son is not something unique to believers; even though it may seem astonishing or unbelievable to the kinds of people that the Greeks and other foreigners call “philosophers”, some of them seem to at least partially get it. They admit that all things were created through the word or reason (logos) of God. Because we think this is a teaching that came from God Himself, we believe there is no better way to understand or explain this higher, divine Reason―we call Him the Son of God―than through the Scriptures inspired by the Holy Spirit: that is, the Gospels, the Epistles, the Law, and the Prophets, as Christ Himself declared. It’s basically impossible to know about this Holy Spirit without reading the Law or believing in Christ. Even though no one can speak with perfect confidence about the nature of God the Father, some understanding of Him can be attained through creation itself and the natural insights of the human mind. This knowledge can be reinforced by reading the inspired texts. As for the Son of God, even though “no one knows the Son except the Father,” the Scriptures teach us how to think about Him. This is made known not only by explicit teachings but also through the lives of Christians, whose actions are understood as preparing the world for Christ’s return. Between these two things, we can start to understand both his transcendent nature and the human nature he voluntarily assumed. 
    2. As for what the Holy Spirit is, Scripture teaches us in many places. Somewhere in the first fifty Psalms, David says, “Do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.” Daniel speaks of “the Holy Spirit that is in You.” The New Testament has plenty on this, too: the Spirit is described as descending on Christ; after His resurrection, the Lord breathed on His apostles and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit”; an angel told Mary, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you”; and Paul says that no one can call Jesus “master” except through the Holy Spirit. In the Acts of the Apostles, the Holy Spirit was given when the apostles laid hands on people at baptism. From all of this, we learn that the person of the Holy Spirit is so important that baptism is not complete without naming all three: that is, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This joins the name of the Holy Spirit to the uncreated God the Father and His only Son. Who isn’t amazed by the immense importance of the Holy Spirit when we hear that one who speaks against Christ may be forgiven, but one who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven―not in this world nor in the world to come?

    Prophecies At A Glance

    Would you like a handy chart of some major Messianic prophecies of the Old Testament?

    Dale Pollard

    A Few Significant Messianic Prophecies at a Glance 

    Amazing Messianic Fulfillments 

    ProphecyOld Testament   New Testament
    Born of a virginIsaiah 7:14Matthew 1:22–23
    Born in BethlehemMicah 5:2Matthew 2:1
    Lineage from DavidJeremiah 23:5Luke 3:31, Matthew 1:6
    God’s Spirit was on HimIsaiah 61:1-2Luke 4:16-21
    Ministry begins in GalileeIsaiah 9:1-2Matthew 4:12-17
    Spoke in parablesPsalm 78:2Matthew 13:34-35
    A prophet like MosesDeuteronomy 18:15Acts 3:22-23
    Entered Jerusalem on a donkeyZechariah 9:9John 12:12-15
    Betrayed for 30 pieces of silverZechariah 11:12–13  Matthew 26:15, 27:3–10
    Silent before His accusersIsaiah 53:7Matthew 27:12-14
    Crucifixion (pierced hands and feet) Psalm 22:16John 20:25
    Cast lots for His garmentsPsalm 22:18John 19:23-24
    No bones brokenPsalm 34:20John 19:33–36
    Buried with the richIsaiah 53:9Matthew 27:57–60
    ResurrectionPsalm 16:10Acts 2:31

    Numbers range from 60-80 clear prophecies to prophecies and clear allusions numbering over 300. Mathematician Peter Stoner, in “Science Speaks,” calculated the probability of just 48 Messianic prophecies being fulfilled as 1 in 10157 (157 zeroes). Without Divine orchestration? Impossible!

    Almost Too Good To Be True!

    How often we hear that the gospel, defined, is “good news.” It is God’s good news, meant to be shared. That’s exactly what the women and the two disciples are doing with the larger group of disciples when Jesus makes His final appearance before returning to heaven. But there are a few things He wants to impress upon them before He goes

    Neal Pollard

    How often we hear that the gospel, defined, is “good news.” It is God’s good news, meant to be shared. That’s exactly what the women and the two disciples are doing with the larger group of disciples when Jesus makes His final appearance before returning to heaven. But there are a few things He wants to impress upon them before He goes. Notice how the book of Luke ends (24:36-53).

    There is a reminder of His identity (36-43). The predominant reminder in this last appearance is of His humanity, the identity He took on to save us from our sins. He shows them His hands and feet (40) and then eats a meal before them (41-43). He will appeal to His Deity in His final instructions, referencing His Father in heaven (49), but He did not want them to forget the brotherhood He shared with them all. How often do I benefit by remembering, as I go about as His disciple, that Jesus fully understands what I am going through? Read Hebrews 2:9-18, for example. He was for a little while made lower than the angels in order taste death for everyone (9). He was perfected in His work as our great High Priest by suffering as a human (10). He is not ashamed to call us “brethren” (11). He partook of sharing our nature, flesh and blood (14). He had to be made like His brethren in all things to become a merciful and faithful High Priest (17). He was tempted in His suffering, which helps Him come to our aid as we suffer (18). There are a multitude of additional passages reinforcing and supplementing our understanding and appreciation of Christ’s humanity, but the resurrected Jesus wants them to remember His humanity after He ascends to heaven. 

    There is a reminder of His history (44-48). It is a mind-boggling truth that Jesus’ history goes back to His preexistence, before He became human. The facet of history of highest interest to Him is sacred history. So, He opened their minds to understand the Scripture (45). He appealed to the three major divisions of the Hebrew Old Testament, the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms (44). We might call them the books of history, prophecy, and poetry. They are saturated with the themes He elaborates upon in verses 46-47, His suffering, His resurrection, and His plan of salvation. By looking to God’s past revelation, they would be equipped for their present mission and fortified for their future reward. So it is for us today. The verification of Scripture, fulfilled prophecy, 

    There is a reminder of His destiny (49-53). It included ascending to heaven to carry out the promise of His Father upon them, to be His witnesses, “clothed with power from on high” (49). Luke gives us fuller details of what happens in this discussion in Acts 1:4-8, and it includes His marching orders and an elaboration of what we read Him telling them about being His witnesses starting in Jerusalem (46-47). His immediate destination is heaven (50), and theirs is Jerusalem (52-53). They went there with great joy and, once there, “were continually in the temple praising God” (53). They were mentally preparing for their earth-shattering, world-changing mission. Heartache was overwhelmed by hope. Disappointment was conquered by determination. They were about to turn the world upside down, an intention they made good on from Jerusalem to Judea, Samaria, and the rest of the world (Acts 1:8; 17:6). Lest we forget, their role in His destiny is the same as ours. We are standing on their shoulders, carrying on their mission today. Jesus needs us to help fulfill His destiny in our world just as He needed them. They rose up and met the challenge! What about us?

    Two Cuts To The Heart

    Growing up, my brother and I had blowgun battles. We’d roll up paper, shape sticky notes into cones, stick bobby pins in the tips, and—voila—homemade blowgun darts. These weren’t toys! One day, I’m hiding behind a wall, and Dale, from across the kitchen, spots my hand. He shoots with deadly aim. One second I’m fine;

    Carl Pollard

    In the book of Acts, we find two moments where people were “cut to the heart” by the preaching of God’s truth. In Acts 2, Peter, filled with the Spirit, preaches on Pentecost, and his words cut thousands, leading to repentance, salvation, and the start of the church. In Acts 7, Stephen’s bold preaching before the Sanhedrin cuts their hearts, but instead of turning to God, they turn to rage and murder. Two cuts, two responses—one to life, one to destruction. What made the difference? How do we respond when God’s Word cuts our hearts?

    To get this, we need to dig into “cut to the heart” in the Greek. In Acts 2:37, after Peter preaches about Jesus’ death and resurrection, we read, “Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart.” The Greek word is katanyssomai, a rare term meaning “to be pierced” or “stung sharply.” Picture a dart hitting your conscience. Growing up, my brother and I had blowgun battles. We’d roll up paper, shape sticky notes into cones, stick bobby pins in the tips, and—voila—homemade blowgun darts. These weren’t toys! One day, I’m hiding behind a wall, and Dale, from across the kitchen, spots my hand. He shoots with deadly aim. One second I’m fine; the next, a dart’s stuck in my wrist, needle in the bone! Talk about pain! We yanked it out, and my wrist instantly swelled up. When Acts 2 says “cut,” it’s not a paper cut—it’s deep. Peter’s words pierced their core, exposing their sin, and they cried, “What shall we do?” (Acts 2:37).

    Now, Acts 7:54. Stephen’s preaching cuts the Sanhedrin’s hearts (“enraged,” ESV), and “they gnashed at him with their teeth.” The Greek word here for “cut” is diapriō, meaning “to saw through” or “cut violently,” like a saw tearing through wood. Their hearts were cut, but with rage, not godly sorrow. Two men stabbed by the same sword: one drops to his knees, seeking a medic; the other, enraged, grips the blade, worsening his wound. Both are cut, but one seeks life, the other death. How often has Scripture stepped on your toes, called out your sin? Ever felt that stab of conviction? Jesus’ words cut the rich young ruler, and he walked away (Mark 10:21-22). In John 6:66, many left after Jesus’ hard teaching. God’s Word is meant to cut and convict, but not all accept it.

    In Acts 2, Peter preaches to a diverse crowd on Pentecost, declaring Jesus, whom they crucified, as the risen Messiah. The gospel hits, and they’re “cut to the heart.” They ask, “What shall we do?” (Acts 2:37). Peter says, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38). That day, 3,000 souls were added to the church. Why? They didn’t resist. They saw their sin—guilty of killing God’s Son—and felt the weight. They humbled themselves, repented, were baptized, and found life. David was “a man after God’s own heart” (Acts 13:22) because he listened and obeyed when God’s Word cut him, even when he messed up. God’s Word will call out your sin—lying, lust, pride—and show you the way out. The Acts 2 crowd chose life through humility.

    In Acts 7, Stephen, full of faith, stands before the Sanhedrin, exposing their rebellion. He says, “You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit” (Acts 7:51). The truth cuts deep, but they gnash their teeth, rush him, and stone him, making Stephen the first Christian martyr. Why? Their pride wouldn’t budge. Like Pharaoh in Exodus, whose heart hardened with each plague (Exodus 7:13-14), they rejected the truth to protect their status. Imagine a doctor diagnosing a deadly disease, saying, “Surgery can save you.” One patient trusts and lives; another storms out, angry, and dies. The Sanhedrin chose the latter—truth exposed their sin, but pride blinded them.

    Humility separates these responses. Acts 2’s crowd humbled themselves, sought mercy, and found grace. Acts 7’s Sanhedrin clung to pride, choosing judgment. Proverbs 15:33 says, “Before honor is humility.” James 4:6 adds, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

    Be like Acts 2, not Acts 7. How will you respond when God’s Word cuts? First, listen with an open heart. Hebrews 4:12 says God’s Word is “sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit.” Don’t push it away. Second, submit and obey quickly. The Acts 2 crowd didn’t delay—they repented and were baptized. Like the prodigal son (Luke 15), run to God when truth hits. If you’re in their shoes, repent and be baptized—don’t wait. You don’t know when you’ll stand before God. Third, seek God’s help. He empowered Peter and Stephen’s preaching and convicts us today. Pray for a soft heart. Has God’s Word cut you? Is there sin you’ve ignored, a relationship to mend? Will you choose life through humility or death through pride? 

    The stakes are eternal.

    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).

    IS IRAN IN THE CROSSHAIRS OF BIBLICAL PROPHECY? 

    There’s a group of people who believe a dark alliance of nations will rise in the last days, and their sights set on one target: Israel. Among them stands Persia — known today as Iran.

    For centuries, the prophetic words of Ezekiel lay dormant. But now, as Iran asserts its influence across the Middle East and sculpts its rhetoric against Israel, some Bible readers say we are watching prophecy awaken

    Dale Pollard

    There’s a group of people who believe a dark alliance of nations will rise in the last days, and their sights set on one target: Israel. Among them stands Persia — known today as Iran.

    For centuries, the prophetic words of Ezekiel lay dormant. But now, as Iran asserts its influence across the Middle East and sculpts its rhetoric against Israel, some Bible readers say we are watching prophecy awaken.

    Ezekiel 38 describes a future war led by a mysterious figure called Gog from the land of Magog, joined by a coalition including Persia. This alliance will launch a sudden attack on Israel, catching the world off guard. Yet, in a stunning twist, they will be supernaturally defeated — not by Israel’s army, but by divine intervention: earthquakes, hailstorms, and chaos among the invaders themselves.

    According to these interpretations, Iran’s fate is sealed not by global politics, but by a divine script written long ago. Though the timeline remains uncertain, the message is clear: Persia, once a mighty empire, will play a pivotal — and ultimately tragic — role in the final act of history.

    As tensions rise in the real world, some wonder: Is the stage being set? Let’s see what the Bible says about it.

    The Bible does not mention “Iran” by name, but it refers to the ancient region of Persia, which is modern-day Iran. Biblical prophecy includes several references to Persia, both in historical and future contexts. Here’s the straight skinny on how Iran (Persia) is used in prophecy:

    1. Persia In Context

    • Daniel 8:20 — “The two-horned ram that you saw represents the kings of Media and Persia.”

    Explanation: This vision prophesies the rise of the Medo-Persian Empire, which historically conquered Babylon and ruled a vast territory. This is a fulfilled prophecy, not the future.

    • Ezra 1:1-4 / Isaiah 45:1 — The Persian king Cyrus is prophesied by name as the one who would allow the Jews to return from Babylonian exile and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem.

    The God and Magog War 

    The most significant passage many refer to when discussing Iran’s prophetic future is Ezekiel 38–39, known as the Gog and Magog War.

    Ezekiel 38:5

    “Persia, Cush and Put will be with them, all with shields and helmets.”

    This passage describes a future invasion of Israel by a coalition of nations led by “Gog of the land of Magog.”

    While many view the Gog and Magog prophecy of Ezekiel 38–39 as a future apocalyptic war, several alternative perspectives argue it has already been fulfilled or symbolically represents historical events, check out this brief explanation of the major views.

    ·  Post-Exilic Threats: Some see Gog as symbolic of foreign powers threatening Israel after their return from Babylon, with God’s protection preventing any major invasion—fulfilling the prophecy through divine preservation, not visible warfare.

    ·  The Esther Parallel: Others connect Gog’s defeat to the events in the book of Esther, where Haman’s plan to annihilate the Jews was sovereignly overturned. God’s intervention and the enemies’ destruction parallel the reversal described in Ezekiel.

    ·  Maccabean Revolt: Some scholars associate the prophecy with Antiochus Epiphanes’ attack on Israel in the 2nd century BC. The miraculous Jewish victory under the Maccabees is viewed as a historical outworking of divine deliverance.

    ·  Symbolic Fulfillment in Christ: A theological reading sees Gog as representing all anti-God forces, with God’s ultimate defeat of them fulfilled in Christ’s victory on the cross and in spiritual judgment, rather than a literal battle. Homer Hailey refers to Gog and Magog as “symbolic names” and interprets Ezekiel 38–39 as a vision representing the ultimate enemies of God’s people, not literal nations (Hailey, Homer. A Commentary on the Book of Ezekiel. Baker Book House, 1972, 379-392). Robert Harkrider interprets the mention of Gog and Magog in Revelation 20 as symbolic of worldwide opposition to God’s people, culminating in their final defeat by God (Harkrider, Robert. Revelation. Truth for Today Commentary Series, edited by Eddie Cloer, Resource Publications, 2003, 377-383).

    —————————————————————————

    Key Takeaways:

    The Bible doesn’t predict the rise and fall of the modern state of Iran specifically.

    No prophecy singles them out or specifies its exact fate beyond the involvement with Israel in its post exilic state.

    Latter day prophecies like this would have had no value for the original readers.

    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!

    Part 1: Moral Clarity in an Age of Antiheroes

    To accurately understand Isaiah 5.20 against the backdrop of modern moral ambiguity, it is crucial to comprehend its original historical and literary context…

    Brent Pollard

    Text: “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness; Who substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!” — Isaiah 5.20

    Expository Background: The Context of Isaiah 5.20

    To accurately understand Isaiah 5.20 against the backdrop of modern moral ambiguity, it is crucial to comprehend its original historical and literary context. The prophet Isaiah shared his prophecies during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, a timeframe of around 740–686 BC. Concurrently, the kingdom of Judah experienced both material prosperity and a concerning spiritual decline.

    The Literary Structure of Isaiah 5

    Isaiah 5 opens with the famous “Song of the Vineyard” (vv. 1–7), in which God compares Israel to a carefully tended vineyard that produced sour grapes instead of the anticipated good fruit. The vineyard represents the chosen community, whereas the wild grapes symbolize their moral decline, despite being bestowed with plentiful spiritual blessings.

    Following this parable, Isaiah announces six “woes” (vv. 8–23) that clearly illustrate how Israel has produced these “wild grapes.” Each lament tackles a particular transgression that had become prevalent in Judean society:

    1. An insatiable craving for acquiring land and possessions (vv. 8–10)
    2. A state of intoxication coupled with a lack of spiritual enthusiasm (vv. 11–17)
    3. Intentional misconduct and ridicule of the sacred (vv. 18–19)
    4. Labeling what is evil as good and vice versa (v. 20)
    5. Excessive pride and unwarranted confidence (v. 21)
    6. Corrupt authority and injustice (vv. 22–23)

    The Specific Context of Verse 20

    The fourth woe (verse 20) is essential in this list, underscoring its significance. The Hebrew phrasing employs four parallel clauses that form a chiastic, or mirrored, structure:

    • A: “those who call evil good”
    • B: “and good evil”
    • B’: “who substitute darkness for light”
    • A’: “and light for darkness”

    This literary device underscores the significant shift in moral standards that occurred in Judean society. The messenger does not reflect accidental ethical ambiguity but rather an intentional and systematic inversion of the divine order established by the Creator.

    Historical Circumstances

    Archaeological evidence and scriptural records suggest that the land of Judah faced significant social unrest in the eighth century. While wealth increased and an elite class emerged, many people suffered from poverty and oppression. The political alliances of that era required concessions to the customs and beliefs of non-believing nations.

    Crucially, in Judea, society developed complex justifications for actions that clearly violated divine laws. The wealthy justified their mistreatment of the poor as vital for economic growth. Religious leaders conformed to local customs to maintain political ties. Social elites altered moral standards to fit their personal goals.

    Isaiah 5:20 specifically highlights the changing perspectives on morality within both intellectual and cultural contexts. The Hebrew verb amar, meaning “call,” suggests more than just a personal viewpoint; it denotes an authoritative pronouncement—key individuals were reshaping society’s moral discourse.

    Theological Principles for Application

    Several hermeneutical principles enable the legitimate application of Isaiah 5:20 to modern contexts:

    1. Divine moral standards are universal: The distinctions upheld by Isaiah testify to God’s immutable nature. What God deems wicked in one age remains wicked throughout all ages.
    2. Patterns of Betrayal in the Covenant: Though we do not belong to ethnic Israel, the New Testament recognizes the church as Israel’s spiritual counterpart (Galatians 6:16; 1 Peter 2:9).
    3. The Influence of Culture on Moral Understanding: Isaiah’s message targets the broader evolution of societal ethical standards, making his warnings perpetually relevant.
    4. The Weight of Leadership Endures: Isaiah’s woes address influential figures who shaped public values. Today, spiritual leaders bear a similar responsibility.

    The Foreshadowing Of Faith

    The Bible’s divine nature never ceases to amaze me. The more I study it, the more I’m convinced it’s God’s Word—perfect, infallible, and life-giving. It’s unlike any other book, offering purpose, wisdom, and a unified story of salvation through Christ.

    Carl Pollard

    The Bible’s divine nature never ceases to amaze me. The more I study it, the more I’m convinced it’s God’s Word—perfect, infallible, and life-giving. It’s unlike any other book, offering purpose, wisdom, and a unified story of salvation through Christ.

    What proves a book is divinely inspired? It must be free of errors, contain knowledge beyond human reach, and fulfill prophecies with precision. The Bible does all this. It reveals scientific truths unknown until recently, remains consistent from Genesis to Revelation, and fulfills thousands of prophecies. The odds of just 48 prophecies coming true by chance are 1 in 10^157—an impossibility for human authors. Isaiah 53 and Psalm 22, written centuries before Christ, detail His suffering with uncanny accuracy. Archaeological discoveries and identical manuscripts further confirm its reliability.

    For a moment, let’s explore one proof of the Bible’s divine origin: the parallel between Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22 and God’s sacrifice of Jesus. Written 2,000 years before Christ, this account mirrors His sacrifice with stunning precision.

    1. A Father’s Love: God asked Abraham to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac (Gen. 22:2). Similarly, God gave His only Son, Jesus, for us (John 3:16). God’s love for humanity surpassed even His love for His Son.

    2. The Son’s Obedience: Isaac, a young man, carried the wood for his sacrifice and didn’t resist (Gen. 22:6, 9). Jesus carried His cross to Golgotha, submitting to God’s will (Luke 22:42). Both show obedient trust we’re called to emulate.

    3. The Journey: Abraham and Isaac traveled three days to Moriah (Gen. 22:4). Jesus’ ministry led to the cross. Both journeys reflect trust in God’s plan.

    4. A Substitute: God stopped Abraham, providing a ram instead of Isaac (Gen. 22:11-13). Jesus, the Lamb of God, became our substitute, bearing our sins (John 1:29).

    5. Resurrection Hope: Abraham believed God could raise Isaac (Heb. 11:19). Jesus rose on the third day (1 Cor. 15:4). Both stories proclaim God’s power over death.

    6. Blessing for All: Through Abraham’s obedience, God promised blessings for all nations (Gen. 22:18), fulfilled in Christ’s salvation (Gal. 3:16).

    Genesis 22 foreshadows God’s sacrifice of Jesus for humanity. Both Isaac and Jesus, only sons, carried the means of their sacrifice. Isaac was spared; Jesus took our place. The Bible points to the One who gives eternal life. Do you know Him?

    Chaos

    The argument is often made that biblical writers ripped off much older myths and adapted them for a monotheistic faith. The problem with this is that, while creation order and chaos are indeed reflected in many of these legends, that’s basically where the similarities end.

    Gary Pollard

    “Chaoskampf” is a prominent theme in the myths of Babylon, Egypt, Canaan, Greece, and even the Norse sagas. It’s also in our Bible, but with obvious differences. In the Babylonian tablets collectively called the Enuma Elish, creation begins with a great battle. Marduk defeats Tiamat, a sea goddess who represents chaos. He fashions the heavens and the earth from her remains after defeating her in battle. In Canaanite myth, Baal battles Yam, the sea god, also a symbol of chaos. In Egyptian stories, Ra must overcome the serpent Apep every night—a coiling monster of darkness and disorder (and don’t forget Osiris/Seth). In Norse mythology, at the edge of the world lies Jörmungandr, the world serpent, who they said will one day rise in Ragnarök, the day of final chaos. In Greek mythology, the Titans battle the Olympians and the victors reorder the destroyed world. 

    The pattern is the same: a divine being, representing order and stability, faces the chaos of the sea, often personified as a serpent. Genesis 1 is greatly simplified and much cleaner — “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters.” The great patriarchs were raised in these traditions: Abraham was from Ur of Babylonia, and Moses was raised and educated in Egypt. Asaph wrote, “With your great power you split open the sea and broke the heads of the sea monster. Yes, you smashed the heads of Leviathan and left his body for the animals to eat. You make the springs and rivers flow, you make the rivers dry up. You control day and night. You made the sun and moon. You set limits for everything on earth, and you created summer and winter” (Ps 74). 

    The argument is often made that biblical writers ripped off much older myths and adapted them for a monotheistic faith. The problem with this is that, while creation order and chaos are indeed reflected in many of these legends, that’s basically where the similarities end. Unlike other cultures, whose myths are all about cosmic battles between gods, Moses and Asaph speak of the unchallenged power of the God who tamed the seas and chaos with just his words. 

    Revelation ties this theme up nicely. John says, “Then I saw a new sky and a new earth. The first sky and first earth had disappeared. Now there was no sea. And I saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from God, down from the sky.” The detail about the sea might seem out of place, but it’s not. “Sea” was often synonymous with chaos, violence, death, and fear. It was personified as a great enemy that had to be defeated. On New Earth, tehom — chaos, the abyss, Tiamat, Leviathan, the sea — is finally gone forever.

    Three quick things: 

    1. Chaos is nothing to panic over. We serve the God who calmed the seas with a word (Mk 4). 
    2. God can and does bring order from chaos. Our life might feel “formless and void” but God will ultimately bring order and beauty (Rom 8). 
    3. God has already won — the sea is on borrowed time, Leviathan has lost. 

    When The Foundations Tremble: A Closer Look At Psalm 11:3

    “How can we genuinely live out the principles of Christ’s kingdom now?”
    This truth does not suggest believers withdraw from the world or avoid pursuing righteousness. Throughout history, those motivated by sacred teachings have passionately sought justice, advocated for the vulnerable, and worked to elevate their communities. However, our engagement arises from a strong faith in the divine order, not from anxiety about social changes or the failures of institutions.

    Brent Pollard

    “If the foundations are destroyed, What can the righteous do?”— Psalm 11.3

    This verse resonates with us during crises. When faced with cultural upheaval, political turmoil, or moral decline, many Christians turn to Psalm 11.3. Sometimes, they do so out of despair over society’s deterioration, while at other times, they do so as a rallying cry for their preferred solutions. The verse becomes a flexible instrument for urgency, affirming concerns or motivating action on various issues.

    However, we frequently overlook a crucial aspect: David isn’t the one asking this question.

    The Context Makes All the Difference

    Psalm 11 opens with David’s bold declaration of faith: “In the Lord I take refuge; How can you say to my soul, ‘Flee as a bird to your mountain…’” (v. 1). David stands resolute, confronting those who would counsel retreat amid peril.

    The composition of the psalm unfolds a conversation between two viewpoints:

    The Voice of Fear (vv. 1b-3): David’s advisors see the wicked preparing their bows (v. 2) and come to a grim realization: when moral foundations crumble, the righteous become vulnerable. Their response? To flee and seek safety.

    The Voice of Faith (vv. 4-7): David does not react with fear but with deep theological insight into God’s unwavering sovereignty.

    A biblical commentator, Derek Kidner, points out that the entire middle section, including verse 3, represents “the voice of defeatism,” which David firmly rejects. “What can the righteous do?” isn’t a lament from David; instead, it captures the worried thoughts of those who have forgotten the basis of their genuine security.

    David’s Counter-Argument: God Still Reigns

    David’s reply cuts through the fog of anxiety with deep theological insight:

    “The Lord is in His holy temple; the Lord’s throne is in heaven; His eyes behold, His eyelids test the sons of men.” (v. 4).

    Although many see only the world’s chaos, David perceives the divine harmony that supports all creation. In his Treasury of David, Charles Spurgeon articulates this thought with remarkable clarity: “When we cannot see our way, we can see our God. When we cannot trace his path, we can trust his heart.” David places his trust not in the transient nature of human institutions but in the enduring foundation of divine sovereignty. God’s throne stands firm, unaffected by the upheavals of earthly power, and His justice persists, steady even when human systems fail.

    Spurgeon remarks that David “answers the craven counselors” not by arguing but through a deep comprehension of God—focusing not on the immediate dangers posed by wicked men with their bows ready. Instead, David looks beyond what is visible into the invisible throne room of heaven, where God watches, evaluates, and will eventually pass judgment on all issues.

    The psalm ends with a promise: “For the Lord is righteous, He loves righteousness; The upright will behold His face.” (v. 7). This is not simply hopeful thinking; it is the foundation of theology.

    The Danger of Misapplication

    In today’s world, Psalm 11.3 often serves as a rallying cry for various causes—whether political efforts, social movements, or institutional reforms. Some people exploit this verse to create a sense of urgency around specific agendas, implying that failing to support a particular cause amounts to a total abandonment of righteousness.

    The warped perspective appears in several forms: Some cite “crumbling foundations” to justify political involvement, while others promote questionable social theories. Some reinforce institutional biases or traditional practices not backed by Scripture. Scripture fosters discord rather than a call to unwavering biblical loyalty in all these cases.

    The early church repeatedly faced this temptation. They were under the weight of Roman oppression, witnessing the surrounding moral decline and suffering persecution. However, the apostles’ writings consistently guided believers beyond simple human solutions to the profound spiritual truths that lie ahead. While imprisoned by a corrupt regime, Paul wrote some of his most optimistic passages, strongly affirming that external circumstances cannot determine the ultimate safety of God’s people.

    Berean biblical scholarship teaches us that, although earthly institutions fulfill God’s objectives (Romans 13.1-7), the church’s primary mission surpasses any specific human system or movement. Our true citizenship lies in heaven (Philippians 3.20), and our ultimate hope is anchored not in any earthly cause, no matter how noble, but in Christ alone.

    What Can the Righteous Do?

    When the very foundations tremble, the Word of God offers unwavering guidance:

    Pray Without Anxiety: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4.6). During times of uncertainty, we should avoid panic and instead pursue the unfathomable peace of God through sincere prayer.

    Seek God’s Kingdom First: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6.33). We prioritize advancing the divine purpose over merely endorsing political ideologies.

    Stand Firm in Faith: “Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.” (Ephesians 6.13). We do not retreat; instead, we remain steadfast, strengthened by our inner determination.

    Live as Salt and Light (Matthew 5.13-17): We engage with society, aiming to effect change through the gospel instead of withdrawing from its challenges. By embodying integrity, serving others, and speaking truth with courage, we influence the world around us.

    The Church’s Distinctive Response

    The church offers a distinct promise that goes beyond any earthly pursuit: a message of eternal hope rooted in Christ’s victory. When society’s foundations appear to be trembling, our primary question should not be, “How can we advance our ambitions?” but instead, “How can we genuinely live out the principles of Christ’s kingdom now?”

    This truth does not suggest believers withdraw from the world or avoid pursuing righteousness. Throughout history, those motivated by sacred teachings have passionately sought justice, advocated for the vulnerable, and worked to elevate their communities. However, our engagement arises from a strong faith in the divine order, not from anxiety about social changes or the failures of institutions.

    J.W. McGarvey powerfully asserted that the true strength of the church is not found in human systems or movements but rather in the profound work of spiritual transformation. As we proclaim the gospel, we delve into the depths of the human heart, confronting the fundamental issues that no worldly remedy can address.

    Conclusion: Standing on the True Foundation

    In Psalm 11.3, the inquiry does not stem from David but reflects the anxious assumption he rejects. The righteous do despairingly ask, “What can we do?” Instead, we declare with David, “The Lord is in His holy temple.”

    Charles Spurgeon reminds us that “the believer’s safety lies not in the absence of danger, but in the presence of the Lord.” We stand firm when the ground shakes beneath us, for our foundation is immune to chaos. We do not retreat in fear to the mountains; instead, we draw near to the Lord with steadfast faith. We do not turn away from the world; instead, we face it with the confidence that comes from knowing Who truly reigns.

    The fundamental elements that uphold human society are fragile and can be easily disturbed. In contrast, the foundation of God’s kingdom remains eternally firm and steadfast. This reality shapes how we respond when the world trembles around us.

    “For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 3.11).

    Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are taken from the NASB® (New American Standard Bible®, 1995 Updated Edition). Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

    The Weight Of Words

    Words carry a lot of power, revealing the core of who we are. Each year, the average person speaks about 11 million words—roughly 30,000 daily, enough to fill a short book every two days. If your words were laid bare for all to see, would they reflect a story you’d stand by?

    Carl Pollard

    Words carry a lot of power, revealing the core of who we are. Each year, the average person speaks about 11 million words—roughly 30,000 daily, enough to fill a short book every two days. If your words were laid bare for all to see, would they reflect a story you’d stand by? In Matthew 12:36-37, Jesus delivers a warning: “Everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every idle word they have spoken. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” The Greek term for “idle,” argos, refers to useless, fruitless words that fail to honor God. Luke 6:45 reinforces this: “The mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” Our words expose our hearts and will one day testify for or against us. Every word we speak is directed toward God and those made in His image. To move from empty speech to words that give life, we can follow three steps: tighten your lips, tame your tongue, and transform your heart.

    The first step is to filter what comes out of your mouth. Psalm 141:3 says, “Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.” David recognized that words can escape before we think, often causing harm through gossip, complaints, or lies. Consider Job, who, despite losing everything, refused to curse God (Job 2:9-10). His restrained speech reflected deep faith, unlike the Israelites in Exodus 16:3, who grumbled at minor hardships, saying, “We should’ve stayed in Egypt!” Their careless words revealed weak trust and cost them greatly. With about 20% of our day—4 to 5 hours—spent talking, we have millions of opportunities for idle words. A simple test before speaking: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? By guarding our lips and seeking God’s help, we can ensure our words build up rather than tear down.

    Guarding your lips is a start, but the tongue itself is a force. James 3:7-8 calls it a “restless evil,” capable of sparking destruction like a wildfire. Peter’s life shows this vividly. In Matthew 26:74, under pressure, he denied Jesus, even cursing to make his point—words that exposed his fear. Yet, after Pentecost, his tongue preached boldly, leading 3,000 to salvation (Acts 2). The difference was divine transformation. A 2018 incident proves the point: a single 50-word social media post from a well known figure tanked a company’s stock by 20% in hours, costing billions. One reckless word can destroy; one intentional word can build. To control your tongue, ask: Will this honor God? Will it uplift or harm? With the Spirit’s guidance, replace fruitless words with those that speak life.

    Words don’t start at the tongue—they flow from the heart. Matthew 15:8 says, “The things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them.” When life’s pressures hit, your words reveal what’s inside. David’s heart transformation in 2 Samuel 12:13, after his sin with Bathsheba, led to honest repentance: “I have sinned against the Lord.” Unlike Saul, who deflected blame, David’s words reflected a renewed heart, restoring his relationship with God. A 2021 study found 64% of online comments carry negative or hostile tones, often from unrenewed hearts. To speak purposefully, ask God to transform your heart, as David did in Psalm 51:10: “Create in me a clean heart, O God.” Through prayer, scripture, and worship, fill your heart with God’s truth, and your words will reflect His love.

    You speak 30,000 words daily, 11 million yearly—each a seed that bears fruit, good or bad. Matthew 12 and Luke 6 remind us our words will judge us, revealing our hearts. This week, commit to intentional speech: guard your lips like David, control your tongue like Peter, and renew your heart through Christ. Careless words can destroy relationships and hinder the gospel, but purposeful words can heal and point to eternity. 

    What do your words say about you?

    Origen’s “On First Principles” (Book 1, Ch. 2.11-13)

    “The Son and the Spirit share in that same nature of divine goodness, because they come from the Father Himself. So, when anything else is called “good” in Scripture―whether angels, people, hearts, trees, or treasures―it’s called good only in a borrowed or figurative sense, not in the essential sense that belongs to God alone….”

    Gary Pollard

    [Editor’s Note: Gary is translating the Ante-Nicene Fathers works, beginning with Origin’s work. It is meant to update the British English of Roberts and Donaldson. What follows is part of that translation]

    Thirdly, wisdom is called the radiance of eternal light. We already discussed the meaning of this phrase earlier, using the analogy of the sun and its rays to help explain it. Here, we’ll add just one further thought. Something is truly eternal if it never began to exist and never ceases to be what it is. This is what John means when he says, “God is light.” God’s wisdom is the radiance of that light―not just because it is light, but because it is eternal light. So, wisdom is the eternal and everlasting radiance of God. If we grasp this properly, we see clearly that the Son’s existence comes from the Father―but not in terms of time or from any origin other than God Himself.

    Wisdom is also called the flawless mirror of God’s energy (or activity). So, we should first consider what the activity or working of God’s power is. It is a kind of living force through which God acts―whether in creating, governing the world, judging, or arranging all things in their proper time and place. Just as a mirror perfectly reflects everything a person does in front of it, wisdom should be understood as the flawless mirror of the Father’s power and actions. This is why Jesus Christ, who is the Wisdom of God, says, “The works that the Father does, the Son also does.” And again, “The Son can do nothing by Himself, but only what He sees the Father doing.”

    The Son does not differ from the Father in power or action. The work of the Son is not separate from the work of the Father. Rather, both act in perfect unity―as if by one and the same motion. That’s why the Son is called a flawless mirror―to show that there is no difference at all between the Son and the Father. How then can it be right to say, as some do, that the Son imitates the Father like a student copies a teacher? Or that the Son creates material things based on spiritual patterns first made by the Father? These ideas don’t match what Scripture teaches. The gospel doesn’t say the Son does similar works to the Father―it says He does the same works, in the same way.

    Now we turn to what it means that the Son is the image of His goodness. This, I believe, is similar to what we just said about the image in a mirror. God the Father is the original source of goodness, and the Son is born from that goodness. Because the Son fully reflects the Father, He can rightly be called the image of His goodness. The Son doesn’t possess some separate kind of goodness; His goodness is exactly the same as the Father’s. This is why the Rescuer says in the Gospel, “No one is good except God alone, the Father.” This statement shouldn’t be taken to mean that Christ is not good―but rather that his goodness comes entirely from the same source: the primal goodness of the Father.

    The Son and the Spirit share in that same nature of divine goodness, because they come from the Father Himself. So, when anything else is called “good” in Scripture―whether angels, people, hearts, trees, or treasures―it’s called good only in a borrowed or figurative sense, not in the essential sense that belongs to God alone. To talk about all the titles of the Son of God―like true light, door, righteousness, sanctification, redemption, and many others―and to explain the reasons behind each one would take too long here. Since we’re content with what we’ve already said, we will continue on to the next part of our discussion.

    People Skills From God

    Dispersed throughout the Bible we find several sections of scripture that teach us how to communicate, empathize, and get along with others effectively. God’s interpersonal skills cannot be matched. As the Creator, He understands exactly how humans think and behave.

    Dale Pollard

    Some people just seem to be born with great people skills. Perhaps their personality type just naturally draws others to them. While natural ability may give some a leg up, the great news is that anyone can learn to work well with others and you can develop better interpersonal skills. In fact, it’s really a biblical command! The church is made up of all kinds of people and that being the case, we must all be in the people business. Thankfully, our Lord doesn’t leave us high and dry to try and figure these things out on our own. 

    Dispersed throughout the Bible we find several sections of scripture that teach us how to communicate, empathize, and get along with others effectively. God’s interpersonal skills cannot be matched. As the Creator, He understands exactly how humans think and behave. Here are twelve insights on interpersonal skills sent to us from above.

     

    1. Speak evil of no one (I Thess. 5:14) 
    2. A soft answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger (Proverbs 15:1) 
    3. The wise of heart is called perceptive, and pleasant speech increases persuasiveness (Proverbs 16:21)
    4. Be gentle and show courtesy to all people (Titus 3:2) 
    5. Do good to everyone (Gal. 6:10) 
    6. Bear one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2)  
    7. As you wish that others would do to you, do so to them (Luke 6:31) 
    8. Discern your own thoughts, identify your intentions (Heb. 4:12) 
    9. Treat others like you would treat Jesus. How would you interact with Him? (Matthew 25:40) 
    10. Season your speech with grace. It’s the saviors All-Spice for every relationship building goal (Col. 4:5-6) 
    11. Praise God and be joyful, it attracts people (Psalm 100:1-5)
    12. Be ready for every good work, speak evil of no one, avoid quarreling, be gentle, show courtesy to all people (Titus 3:1-15) 

    Notice how many passages in the Bible command us to speak differently than everyone else? All of these insights can be simply summed up in just one sentence. Talk, walk, and live more like Jesus. He was perfect in every way and that includes how he interacted with others. Modeling ourselves after the Savior will not only improve our relationship skills with others, but also with Him. Jesus also teaches us that no matter how gentle and loving we are, we’ll still make some people upset. That’s alright! As long as we’re acting like the Lord in all things. 

    The Unchanging Word: Prioritizing Scripture Over Human Tradition

    In a bold challenge to the Pharisees, Jesus referenced the words of Isaiah, exposing their critical error: elevating human traditions above the divine commandments of God. Their worship, rooted in human traditions, lacked authenticity, revealing a profound reality: the authority of God’s Word remains unparalleled, and no human custom can replace it.

    Brent Pollard

    Matthew 15:8-9: “‘This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. In vain do they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’”

    Mark 7:6-7: “He said to them, ‘Rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written: This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. In vain do they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’”

    Comedian Isaak Wells’ humorous Skeletor meme, “Traditions are basically just dead people peer pressuring you,” encompasses a profound truth that aligns with a solemn admonition from Jesus. In a bold challenge to the Pharisees, Jesus referenced the words of Isaiah, exposing their critical error: elevating human traditions above the divine commandments of God. Their worship, rooted in human traditions, lacked authenticity, revealing a profound reality: the authority of God’s Word remains unparalleled, and no human custom can replace it.

    The Divine Standard: Scripture’s Authority

    True scholarship recognizes Scripture as God’s divinely inspired and infallible Word, as affirmed in 2 Timothy 3.16-17. The error of the Pharisees lay in their acceptance of human traditions that obscured the clarity of God’s commands. Matthew Henry observes, “When men’s inventions are tacked to God’s institutions and imposed with equal authority, then worship becomes vain.” Jesus confronted them, asking, “Why do you yourselves transgress the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?” (Matthew 15.3). This statement affirms the authority of Scripture above all human traditions, calling believers to proclaim what the Bible declares and to hold their tongues where it is silent.

    The Heart of True Worship

    The rebuke of Jesus reveals the very heart of worship. The Pharisees’ hearts were distant from God, making their worship empty despite appearing pious. Genuine worship captivates the heart (John 4.23-24). Following tradition without discernment places habit above heartfelt devotion, whether in our rituals or church practices. Believers must scrutinize their intentions, ensuring their worship springs from hearts wholly devoted to God.

    Discerning Godly Practice

    Scripture guides discernment between traditions that honor God and those that mislead:

    • Apostolic Example: The early church embraced traditions like weekly communion (Acts 20.7), congregational singing (Ephesians 5.19; Colossians 3.16), and regular assembly (Hebrews 10.25). Paul praised the Corinthians for maintaining apostolic traditions (1 Corinthians 11.2) but corrected deviations.
    • Berean Standard: The Bereans tested teachings against Scripture daily (Acts 17.11), modeling intellectual integrity and spiritual humility.

    Scriptural principles for evaluating traditions include:

    • Biblical Warrant: Does the practice have clear scriptural support via commands, examples, or necessary inferences? (Psalm 119.105)
    • Genuine Worship: Does it draw hearts closer to God in spirit and truth? (John 4.23-24; 1 Peter 2.5)
    • Edification: Does it build the church and promote unity? (1 Corinthians 14.26)
    • Apostolic Alignment: Does it reflect New Testament patterns? (Ephesians 2.20)

    Practical Application

    Apply discernment in:

    • Worship: Do practices align with biblical patterns of praise, prayer, communion, and proclamation, conducted “decently and in order”? (1 Corinthians 14.40)
    • Church Organization: Does leadership follow biblical qualifications for elders and deacons? (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1)
    • Personal Devotion: Are spiritual disciplines grounded in Scripture, not an empty routine?
    • Christian Living: Do moral standards reflect God’s Word, not cultural or family traditions that contradict it?

    The Call to Heart-Deep Faithfulness

    Jesus’ rebuke serves as a profound warning and a gracious invitation. Worship that does not arise from deep and sincere devotion lacks true significance. The Lord desires those who worship Him sincerely and authentically, offering lives fully committed to His glory. Reflect on how traditions shape and influence your faith journey. Examine them in light of the Word. If you find yourself aligned, recommit with heartfelt devotion; if not, earnestly seek biblically grounded alternatives through prayer.

    Upholding Scripture’s Supremacy

    Genuine faith submits every action to the authority of Scripture. When the Word of God declares, we must respond obediently, even when it starkly contrasts our traditions. In the areas where Scripture is silent, let us generously extend love and freedom, refraining from imposing our convictions upon others. This dedication profoundly influences our communion with God. To love Him with all our hearts is to fully embrace His Word, refusing to distort it to conform to the world’s ways.

    Embrace Scripture with open hearts, just as the Bereans did, diligently testing everything by its truth. May our worship flow from fully devoted hearts, our practices be rooted in the truth of Scripture, and our loyalty is unwavering to God alone.

    Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the NASB® (New American Standard Bible®, 1995 Updated Edition). Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

    Walk As A Disciple

    Carl Pollard

    The story is told of a father and son stepping off a rickety stagecoach in a dusty western town, looking for an uncle they’ve never met. Across the town square, a man strides away, and the father says, “That’s him!” The son, puzzled, asks, “How do you know? You’ve never seen him!” With a grin, the father replies, “Son, he walks just like my dad.” That’s the thing about a walk—it gives you away. As Christians, our lives should shout that we’ve been with Jesus, even to those who’ve never seen Him. Like Peter, spotted as a disciple by a servant girl despite his fear (Luke 22:56-57), our walk should tell the world who we follow.

    We’ve all felt that tug to live for something bigger, haven’t we? To wonder if our faith is making a difference or if we’re really following Jesus the way He meant. I’ve wrestled with that myself, wanting my life to count in a world that’s starving for hope. Jesus’ Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 isn’t just a pep talk—it’s a command: “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them… teaching them to obey everything I’ve commanded.” Paul backs this up in Colossians 1:28-29, pushing us to proclaim Christ and work hard to help others grow in Him. This isn’t about just showing up to church or believing quietly—it’s about being all-in, living as disciples who reflect Jesus through our words, love, and actions.

    What’s a Disciple? 

    The Greek word for “disciple,” mathetes, means someone who learns by imitating their teacher. Jesus put it plainly in Luke 6:40: a disciple, when fully trained, becomes like their teacher. God’s plan is to shape us into Christ’s image (Romans 8:29). A woman once asked a preacher, “What’s discipleship in one word?” He held up a blank piece of paper and said, “It’s signing your name at the bottom and letting God fill in the rest.” That’s it—handing over your life, like Peter or Mary Magdalene did, leaving everything to follow Jesus. Are you ready to give God the signed blank paper? 

    How do I know I’m walking the walk? 

    Jesus gave us three clear signs of a true disciple. First, stick to His Word. John 8:31 says, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.” This means diving into Scripture and living it out, like the Bereans who studied daily (Acts 17:11). It’s not just reading—it’s letting God’s truth change how you live. Second, love each other. Jesus said in John 13:35, “By this everyone will know you are my disciples, if you love one another.” The early church shared everything, and their love drew thousands to faith (Acts 2:44-45). Are you forgiving, serving, or lifting up your brothers and sisters? Third, bear fruit that lasts. John 15:8 says God is glorified when we produce “much fruit.” This isn’t a one-off good deed but a life of impact that points to Jesus. Is your life showing His work?

    Following Jesus isn’t cheap. He said in Luke 14:26 that He comes before family, friends, even your own desires. It might mean sacrifice or persecution (Luke 14:27). Polycarp, facing death in 156 AD, said, “Eighty-six years I’ve served Him, and He’s never done me wrong.” What do you need to let go of—pride, plans, fears? But here’s the good news: you don’t do it alone. Colossians 1:29 talks about God’s power working mightily in us. That same power turned the Roman Empire upside down through ordinary disciples. It can help you share your faith, mentor someone, or stand firm today.

    At the end of the day, discipleship isn’t about what you get but what you give—how you love, serve, and sacrifice. The rewards? Eternal life free from pain (Revelation 21:1-8), plus peace, joy, and a spiritual family right now (John 14:27; Mark 10:28-30). It starts with baptism, uniting you with Christ’s death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4), and continues with a life of learning and obeying His commands (Matthew 28:20).

    Jesus calls us to live as His disciples—loving deeply, bearing fruit, and surrendering fully. Let your walk show the world you’ve been with Him. Sign that blank page, let God fill it, and pass your faith on. He promises, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). So, share your faith with a neighbor, encourage a new believer, or let go of what’s holding you back. The world needs disciples who shine with Christ’s light. Are you ready to walk the walk?

    Origen’s “On First Principles” (Book 1, Ch. 2.10)

    Here’s the key: some might think God was all-powerful before Wisdom (the Son of God) came into the picture, making God a Father. But Scripture is clear: “In wisdom, you made everything,” and the Gospel says, “Through Him all things were made, and nothing was made without him.” This means God’s title as all-powerful is tied to being a Father through Wisdom, who is the Son. The Son, Jesus, is the purest expression of God’s infinite power.

    Gary Pollard

    [Editor’s Note: Gary is translating the Ante-Nicene Fathers works, beginning with Origin’s work. It is meant to update the British English of Roberts and Donaldson. What follows is part of that translation]

    Let’s consider the phrase, “Wisdom is the ultimate expression of God’s infinite power.” To understand this, we first need to examine what God’s “infinite power” means, and then we’ll see how Wisdom flows from it. Just like you can’t be a parent without a child or a leader without a team, God can’t be called all-powerful without something or someone to exercise that power over. For God to truly be all-powerful, everything must exist—otherwise, there’d be a time when God wasn’t fully in charge, which doesn’t add up.

    Imagine someone saying there was a time when nothing existed, and God only later became all-powerful when everything came into being. That would imply God somehow leveled up, going from “less powerful” to “all-powerful”, which is a better state. But that’s a flawed and inaccurate way to think about God, right? It suggests God was incomplete and then gained something later. Instead, if God is always all-powerful, then the things that make God all-powerful—creation, beings to govern—must always have been there. God has always had authority over everything, ruling as a king or leader. We’ll dig deeper into creation later, but for now, let’s focus on the main point: Wisdom is described as the purest expression of God’s infinite power.

    Here’s the key: some might think God was all-powerful before Wisdom (the Son of God) came into the picture, making God a Father. But Scripture is clear: “In wisdom, you made everything,” and the Gospel says, “Through Him all things were made, and nothing was made without him.” This means God’s title as all-powerful is tied to being a Father through Wisdom, who is the Son. The Son, Jesus, is the purest expression of God’s infinite power.

    So what is the “glory of the Almighty” that Wisdom flows from? It’s the brilliance of God’s total authority, and Wisdom—Jesus—shares in that brilliance. Through Wisdom, God doesn’t just rule like a dictator; God’s power is expressed through the willing loyalty of creation. To make it perfectly clear, the Father and the Son share the same power. John in Revelation says, “This is what the Lord God says, the One who is, was, and is to come, the Almighty.” Who’s the “One to come”? That’s Jesus. So, just as we’re not shocked that Jesus is God alongside the Father, we shouldn’t be surprised that Jesus, the Son, is also all-powerful. Jesus Himself says to the Father, “Everything You have is Mine, and everything I have is Yours, and I’m glorified through them.” If everything the Father has belongs to Jesus, that includes God’s infinite power. The Son, being all-powerful too, shares everything the Father has.

    Jesus says, “I’m glorified in them,” meaning His glory shines through creation. Scripture backs this up: “At the name of Jesus, every knee will bow—in the heavens, on earth, and below—and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” So, Jesus is the ultimate expression of God’s power, the pure and radiant Wisdom, glorified as the embodiment of that power.

    To break it down further: God the Father is all-powerful because He has authority over everything—sky, earth, sun, moon, stars, you name it. He exercises this power through His Word, Jesus, because “at the name of Jesus, every knee will bow.” If everything bows to Jesus, then Jesus is the one with authority over all things, channeling that power back to the Father. This happens through Wisdom—through reason and truth, not force or obligation. That’s why Jesus’ glory is so pure: He holds all things together through wisdom, not despotic control. This is the clearest, most authentic kind of glory because it’s not forced—it’s freely given.

    Now, let’s contrast this. Anything that can change or shift—like human nature or created things—might have moments of glory through good deeds or wisdom, but that glory isn’t permanent because it’s not part of their core. It can fade. But God’s Wisdom, the Son, is unchanging. Every good quality in Him is permanent, not temporary. That’s why His glory is described as pure and authentic—because it’s part of who He is, forever. 

    What New Christians Need From Us

    Neal Pollard
    • Excitement. From the moment they are part of the body of Christ, new Christians need to experience our joy over them. This needs to be sustained over their first weeks and months as a Christian. While developing relationships cannot stay at this initial phase forever, neither should they feel forgotten in a few days (cf. Acts 15:3; Phil. 1:25).
    • Embracing. While hugs and affection can be an effective means of helping everyone, including spiritual babes, I mean here making new Christians feel a part of the “group.” They have likely exchanged circles of influence and will have to give up some unwholesome relationships. They will do so, often still “rough around the edges” or still working through some worldly ways. They need our friendship and acceptance, our mature assistance as they are grafted in to the body (Rom. 15:7).
    • Example. New Christians by their nature do not know a lot about how to be a Christian. They rely on role models. Therefore, we will watch our attitude, our general speech, our words about others, our choices (recreation, clothing, entertainment, etc.), and our actions. Much is at stake (Mat. 18:6-7).
    • Enlistment. New Christians don’t have exhaustive experience with what the Christian life is to be like. They don’t know what next steps are, though they are usually “on fire” for the Lord and raring to go! Our task is to help them see that Christians are to do more than “be,” they are to “do.” We need to call them alongside and help them serve. If we can do this from the beginning, they will not have instilled in them the habits of inactivity or reduce the Christian life to a few hours assembling. Take them visiting, get them to help teach, have them sit in on Bible studies, and generally find what they are good at and help them find outlets to exercise their gifts (Rom. 12:6-8; Eph. 4:16).
    • Edification. That requires time spent together. Whether this occurs through table fellowship, social interests, church work, and just quality time, they need to be built up in the faith. If we will deepen the relationship generally, they will be more receptive to the most important way to be uplifted–through the assemblies (Heb. 10:24-25). This instruction remains vital, to “encourage one another and build up one another” (1 Th. 5:11).

    What would you add?