I learned recently that there are some languages around the world that don’t have a word for “grace.” So to translate the song “Amazing Grace,” for example, that language might instead call it “Amazing Mercy.” However, mercy and grace are two very, very different concepts. Merriam Webster contrasts the two words this way: “Mercy implies … More Mercy and Grace
God has never once been worried. Never once! Think about that for a minute. He never wrings His hands, breaks a sweat, or scratches His head in confusion. God is totally and powerfully King over all, thoroughly in charge. … More The Majesty of God
Now, sometimes there doesn’t seem to be a lot in a simple introduction, but if we look closely, we might be surprised at what we unearth. Notice that in this passage, Paul commended the Thessalonian church for three distinct attributes, each respectively rooted in faith, in hope, and in love. Let’s look again. … More A Thessalonian Introduction
Psalm 103 famously opens with these lyrics: “Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy Name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and … More Do Not Forget His Benefits
As I’ve been reading through 1 Peter recently, I can’t help but notice the dramatic transformation that took place in Peter’s life. In the Gospel narratives, Peter is portrayed as a bit rough-and-tumble, opinionated, brash and aggressive, and quick to speak. When he was baptized in the Holy Spirit in Acts 2, though, the dynamic … More A Message to Church Leaders
