Ephesians 6:10-12 ESV “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic … Continue reading The Schemes of the Devil
Christian persecution
Persecuted for Righteousness’ Sake
Matthew 10:16-22 ESV “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to … Continue reading Persecuted for Righteousness’ Sake
If What I Said is Wrong
Jesus Christ, the Son of God (and God) had just been betrayed by one of his closest companions, Judas, who turned him over to the authorities to be arrested and to be put on trial, as though he was guilty of committing a crime. And so Judas came with a detachment of soldiers and some … Continue reading If What I Said is Wrong
Worth it All
In Context (John 13-15) It was right before Jesus’ betrayal, arrest, and crucifixion. At what is called “The Last Supper,” Jesus washed his disciples feet, and he proclaimed to his disciples that one of them would betray him, which was Judas. But his other disciples did not understand what he was saying to them. And … Continue reading Worth it All
Who are the Libertines?
Summary of Acts 6:1-15 ESV, with practical application Stephen, a man with a good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people. Then some of those who belonged to the synagogue of the Freedmen (libertines), and some others, rose up and … Continue reading Who are the Libertines?
Sharing in His Sufferings
Matthew 20:17-19 ESV “And as Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside, and on the way he said to them, ‘See, we are going up to Jerusalem. And the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn him to death and … Continue reading Sharing in His Sufferings
Honor Christ the Lord
1 Peter 3:13-17 ESV “Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make … Continue reading Honor Christ the Lord
Do Not Fear Suffering
Revelation 2:8-11 ESV “And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: ‘The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life. “‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a … Continue reading Do Not Fear Suffering
Opposition to Christ and His Gospel
I am reading Acts 4:1-31 The apostles were instrumental in the healing of people in the name of Jesus, and they were sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with the people. But many of the Jewish rulers did not like what they were doing. So, they arrested them, and eventually they decided to warn them … Continue reading Opposition to Christ and His Gospel
Who Tremble at His Word
Isaiah 66:2b,5 ESV “But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.” “Hear the word of the Lord, you who tremble at his word: ‘Your brothers who hate you and cast you out for my name's sake have said, “Let the … Continue reading Who Tremble at His Word
Run With It 