Easter: Living Hope
Peter’s words in 1 Peter 1:3-9 remind us that we are on an earthly sojourn. This world, with all its beauty and brokenness, is a temporary residence for those of us who believe in Christ. The moment we embrace salvation, we are reborn, not as mere inhabitants of this world but as citizens of God’s kingdom. Our allegiance shifts, transcending earthly sovereignties to pledge loyalty to the supreme ruler of the universe, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords — Jesus Christ. He who conquered death and now reigns eternally extends to us an invitation to partake in His victory, to serve His sovereign purpose here as we await the fulfillment of our eternal destiny.
Romans: Sustaining Hope in the Joy of Glorification
In a world that often feels burdened by struggle and uncertainty, Romans 8:12-17 breathes life into the weary soul. As we delve into this passage, we encounter two critical challenges to our faith and understanding. First, Paul’s bold assertion in verse 18 confronts our capacity for belief. This claim, seemingly too marvelous to be true, nudges us to question — can we truly embrace such a grand promise with unwavering trust in God’s Word? Second, our preconceived notions of Heaven are put under the microscope. Common misconceptions and imaginations about our eternal dwelling are refined and reshaped, aligning more closely with biblical truths. This reorientation is an invitation to anchor our hope firmly in the realities of God’s Kingdom.
Romans: Kill or Be Killed
Romans 8:12-17 explores the distinction between the mindset of the flesh and that of the Spirit — where one path leads to death and the other to life and peace. It is an underlying struggle within every believer.
Romans: Two Ways to Live
In Romans 8:5-8, Paul presents a compelling contrast between living according to the flesh and living according to the Spirit. Paul gives us a choice: Will we let our spiritual gardens become desolate through neglect, surrendering to the harshness of the flesh?
Romans: Freedom, Not Condemnation
Romans 8 is a passage that invites us into a transformative journey from struggle to victory, not by our might but through the Spirit’s power. This chapter is the very heartbeat of Paul’s message in Romans.
Romans: The Believer’s Battle
Romans 7:14-25 captures the rollercoaster of spiritual growth and personal battle against sin. This passage in Romans is not just about acknowledging the struggle but also about finding hope and strength in Jesus Christ. It is a reminder that while the battle against sin is real and ongoing, victory is found in our Savior.
Romans: The Law’s Gospel Purpose
Romans 7:7-13 explores the role of God’s law in the life of a believer. This passage invites us to reconsider our understanding of the Old Testament law through the lens of the Gospel. Paul initiates this by addressing a fundamental question: Is the law itself sinful? His response, “May it never be,” sets the stage for a discussion on the nature of the law.
Romans: Dead to the Law… Bound to Christ
In Romans 7:1-6, Paul introduces us to a pivotal concept: the transition from being bound by the law to being united with Christ. As we are buried with Christ in faith, we are reborn, freed from our previous bondage to the law, and ready to embark on a new relationship with our Creator.
Romans: There is Freedom in Slavery
Romans 6: 15-23 invites us to reflect on the contradictory themes of slavery and freedom, and how, surprisingly, one can lead to the other. This chapter challenges us to understand and live out the real meaning of freedom, as seen through the lens of our devotion to God.
Romans: Freed From Sin to Serve Jesus
Romans 6:1-24 offers a crucial clarification for believers in Christ, a concept that differentiates being freed from sin from being free to sin. Our identity in Christ compels us to a higher calling, one where our desires no longer hold dominion over us.
Romans: From Adam to Christ — Ruin to Reign
In Romans chapter 5, verses 12-21, we find a part of scripture that stands out not only for its theological depth but also for its linguistic complexity, especially in the original Greek. These verses encapsulate a journey that mirrors our own life stories: a transition from ruin to reign.
Romans: At the Right Time, God Demonstrates His Love
In Romans chapter 5, we find ourselves reading a profound explanation of the Gospel written by the Apostle Paul. As we explore this passage of scripture, we must look at the profound implications of Christ’s death and resurrection. Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection offer transformative power in our spiritual lives.