Christians often talk about “doing the Lord’s work” or “serving God”, but what is the ultimate work of God? Jesus provides us with a definition that may surprise you.
John 6:28-29 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? 29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. Continue reading
This is a loaded question. The answer can start a firestorm of outrage over one’s intolerance and close-mindedness. Let me say that I am not intolerant or close-minded, at least not in the traditional sense. However, I do believe in absolute truth. Also, I do believe in logic. Finally, I believe that the Bible is true and, as a result, that Jesus Christ is the perfect incarnation of God. That said, let’s answer the question, “Do only Christians go to heaven?”. Continue reading
A large portion of the Old Testament is devoted to the Law of Moses and its practice. However, we are told that the Law cannot make anyone righteous (justified) before God (Galatians 2:16). So, what was the purpose of giving the Law and practicing the aspects of it if that did not gain favor with God? Let’s look at what the Apostle Paul wrote on this subject. Continue reading
Acts 12:5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. 6 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. 7 And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.
In Acts 12, we find an incredible testament to the power of prayer. Peter was in jail and the church prayed for him unceasingly. God sends an angel to release Peter. But that’s not the end of the story. What is really interesting is the reaction of the Christians who were praying for Peter’s release. Continue reading
Justification is a key doctrine in Christianity. The basic problem is: (1) all human beings are sinners and (2) God is holy and must judge sin. Justification has to do with how God justifies sinners (declares them to be righteous) so that they can be accepted by Him. The following is one of many verses that address this doctrine.
Galatians 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. Continue reading