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Start / Religion och spiritualitet / Look at the Book
Look at the Book
Look at the Book is John Piper's ongoing series of 8-12 minute videos to help you learn to read the Bible for yourself.
1255 avsnitt • Längd: 0 min • Veckovis: Tisdag
Om podden
Look at the Book is John Piper’s ongoing series of 8-12 minute videos to help you learn to read the Bible for yourself.
The podcast Look at the Book is created by Desiring God. The podcast and the artwork on this page are embedded on this page using the public podcast feed (RSS).
Avsnitt
The Great Crescendo of Faith and Love and the Glory of God: 1 Timothy 6:20–21, Part 4
10 maj 2025 |
min
What is Paul’s ultimate concern in 1 Timothy? To encourage faith that awakens godliness that is passionate about the glory of God.
How Do We Guard the Precious Deposit of Truth? 1 Timothy 6:20–21, Part 3
6 maj 2025 |
min
You don’t guard the word of God like you would some other ancient document. You guard it by doing it, protecting it, and passing it on.
What Is the Good Deposit Entrusted to Timothy? 1 Timothy 6:20–21, Part 2
3 maj 2025 |
min
Paul’s final exhortation in 1 Timothy is to “guard the deposit entrusted to you.” What is “the deposit” the apostle has in mind?
What Emotional Health Is in the Word ‘O’! 1 Timothy 6:20–21, Part 1
29 april 2025 |
min
In the little word “O,” Paul brings us into a whole world of emotional complexity. He models for us healthy, godly affections for others.
How Do We Lay Up Treasure in Heaven? 1 Timothy 6:17–19, Part 2
26 april 2025 |
min
Christian generosity grows out of hearts that place their hope in God. When he is the source of our joy now and forever, we are free to radically give.
Why and How to Hope in God, Not Riches: 1 Timothy 6:17–19, Part 1
22 april 2025 |
min
Those who look to riches to uphold their hopes will be deeply disappointed. Worldly wealth is fleeting and uncertain. Only God can ground our hope.
Serving and Adoring a God Without Rivals: 1 Timothy 6:13–16, Part 2
19 april 2025 |
min
If you belong to the King of kings and Lord of lords, you are as safe as you could possibly be. No one rivals your God.
A Call to Courageous Ministry: 1 Timothy 6:13–16, Part 1
15 april 2025 |
min
Courage does not come from knowing an opponent to be weak. It comes from knowing our God to be strong. God gives us life, and he sustains it.
Fight for Faith! Take Hold of Life! 1 Timothy 6:11–12, Part 2
12 april 2025 |
min
How do you take hold of eternal life? You have faith in Jesus. You believe in him, hold tight to him, treasure him, and refuse to let him go.
The Christian Life as Fleeing and Pursuing: 1 Timothy 6:11–12, Part 1
8 april 2025 |
min
The Christian life is one of fleeing and pursuing: flee anything that does not proceed from faith, and pursue what pleases God.
How Is the Love of Money the Root of All Evils? 1 Timothy 6:6–10, Part 4
5 april 2025 |
min
How can Paul say that the love of money is the root of all evils? Because the kind of heart that loves money abandons faith, and anything not of faith is sin.
Are You Content with Food and Clothing? 1 Timothy 6:6–10, Part 3
1 april 2025 |
min
Christians can be happy with little — yet we are happy not because we have little but because we have God. He, not minimalism, is our portion.
Out of the Womb Penniless, Out of the Tomb Penniless: 1 Timothy 6:6–10, Part 2
29 mars 2025 |
min
Those who seek to make godliness a means of monetary gain miss an all-important point: we entered the world with nothing, and we will leave the same way.
How Is Godliness Great Gain? 1 Timothy 6:6–10, Part 1
25 mars 2025 |
min
Does being a Christian bring benefit in the present life? Absolutely. Peace, contentment, and joy are some of the weighty gains of godliness.
The Roots of False Teaching: 1 Timothy 6:3–5
22 mars 2025 |
min
Three primary desires give rise to false teachers: “I want to be well known.” “I want to be preeminent over others.” “I want to amass power by money.”
Slavery in View of the Whole New Testament: 1 Timothy 6:1–2, Part 3
18 mars 2025 |
min
The New Testament does not abolish the social shell of slavery. But it does transform it so radically that a property-owner relationship becomes unthinkable.
How Shall a Christian Slave Relate to a Believing Master? 1 Timothy 6:1–2, Part 2
15 mars 2025 |
min
The gospel did not abolish slavery immediately, but it did radically reform the master-slave relationship by making both brothers.
How Slaves Pursue the Salvation of Their Masters: 1 Timothy 6:1–2, Part 1
11 mars 2025 |
min
When Paul addresses Christian slaves, he calls them to obey even unbelieving masters. Why?
Choose Pastors Without Carelessness or Perfectionism: 1 Timothy 5:21–25, Part 3
8 mars 2025 |
min
When discerning whether a man should be an elder, be cautious, testing thoroughly, but don’t be paralyzed by fear of choosing imperfectly.
Use a Little Wine for Your Stomach Ailments: 1 Timothy 5:21–25, Part 2
4 mars 2025 |
min
Sometimes, Christians pit doctors and divine healing against one another, as if relying on natural remedies reveals a lack of faith. Does Scripture support that assumption?
The Immeasurable Weight of Choosing Elders: 1 Timothy 5:21–25, Part 1
1 mars 2025 |
min
Choosing elders is a serious business. Paul charges us to do so knowing we are in the presence of God, Jesus Christ, and the elect angels.
Find the Truth to Protect Both Elders and Sheep: 1 Timothy 5:19–20
25 februari 2025 |
min
When accusations arise, Paul would have churches refuse to let elders be destroyed by liars — and refuse to let lying elders destroy sheep.
Don’t Muzzle Your Grain-Treading Ox-Pastor: 1 Timothy 5:17–18, Part 2
22 februari 2025 |
min
Paul sees a connection between hardworking pastors and oxen laboring in the field. Both deserve to be rewarded for their work.
Honor Your Pastors by Paying Them Enough: 1 Timothy 5:17–18, Part 1
18 februari 2025 |
min
Pastors deserve to be paid for their labor. They spend themselves to edify the flock, so the flock should spend to provide for them.
Compassion and the Christian Work Ethic: 1 Timothy 5:11–16, Part 2
15 februari 2025 |
min
The grace of God is not an excuse for laziness. It gives not only pardon for sin but power for Christ-honoring work.
Why Not Enroll Younger Widows? 1 Timothy 5:11–16, Part 1
11 februari 2025 |
min
When Paul instructs Timothy to care for widows in the church, he tells him not to enroll younger widows in the support network. Why?
An Official Order of Seasoned Widows: 1 Timothy 5:9–10
8 februari 2025 |
min
Older women who are seasoned in service, devoted to good works, chaste, courageous, and humble deserve special honor in the church.
The ‘Christian’ Who Is Worse Than an Unbeliever: 1 Timothy 5:3–8, Part 4
4 februari 2025 |
min
When Paul says that professing believers who do not provide for their relatives deny the faith, what does he mean?
True Widows Are Women of Hope and Prayer: 1 Timothy 5:3–8, Part 3
1 februari 2025 |
min
God shows special care for the most destitute among his people, such as widows without living relatives. How might local churches follow his example?
Learning to Care for Your Widowed Mom: 1 Timothy 5:3–8, Part 2
28 januari 2025 |
min
Paul had no notion of godliness without fruit. Real godliness shows itself in the overflow of good works, especially to the neediest.
Honor Your Widowed Mother with Financial Help: 1 Timothy 5:3–8, Part 1
25 januari 2025 |
min
God gives children as a reward to parents. In both the joy they bring and the long-term provision they give, godly children bless their father and mother.
How a Pastor Corrects Men and Women, Old and Young: 1 Timothy 5:1–2, Part 2
21 januari 2025 |
min
Men and women, old and young are not the same — nor do they call for the same kind of pastoral care. Mature pastors exhort each one appropriately.
Why Should We Honor the Aged? 1 Timothy 5:1–2, Part 1
18 januari 2025 |
min
We ought to honor the elderly; the Bible makes that clear. But why? Do we honor the aged because they are often wiser, or does the reason go deeper?
How to Save Yourself and Your Hearers: 1 Timothy 4:11–16
14 januari 2025 |
min
Why is it so important for elders to attend to their own souls? Because as the elders go, so goes the church.
Why Strive for Godliness If Salvation Is a Gift? 1 Timothy 4:6–10, Part 4
11 januari 2025 |
min
If salvation is a gift, why does Paul place such emphasis on pursuing godliness? Because godliness confirms that faith is real.
How Is Godliness Good for This Life and the Next? 1 Timothy 4:6–10, Part 3
7 januari 2025 |
min
Keeping your body fit provides some benefits. But training yourself to be godly is immeasurably better — better now and better in the life to come.
What Is Godliness? 1 Timothy 4:6–10, Part 2
4 januari 2025 |
min
Many of us say that we want to be more godly. But what is godliness in the first place?
How Shall the Servant of Christ Be Trained? 1 Timothy 4:6–10, Part 1
31 december 2024 |
min
Healthy pastors not only communicate the word of God — they love it. They both serve the meal and eat it. They are coworkers in joy.
Paul’s Alternative to Asceticism: 1 Timothy 4:1–5, Part 3
28 december 2024 |
min
The alternative to demonic asceticism is to receive God’s good gifts in ways that show his worth and lead us into deeper enjoyment of him.
How to Believe in the Teachings of Demons: 1 Timothy 4:1–5, Part 2
24 december 2024 |
min
False teachers forsake godliness as the goal of knowledge. And when that happens, consciences are seared and people swerve from the truth.
Why Such Bleak Predictions of the End Times? 1 Timothy 4:1–5, Part 1
21 december 2024 |
min
The New Testament makes it clear that the end times will become increasingly bleak. But God is not caught off guard; his great plan holds true.
The Greatness of Christ-Exalting Truth: 1 Timothy 3:14–16, Part 2
17 december 2024 |
min
When Paul steps back to assess the truth about all that God is for us in Jesus, truth that the church upholds, his response is to say, “Great indeed!”
The Household of God Is a Pillar of Truth: 1 Timothy 3:14–16, Part 1
14 december 2024 |
min
Buildings do not make a church — people do. And God has established his people to proclaim his truth to a world that desperately needs it.
Serving Well Gains Good Standing and Great Confidence: 1 Timothy 3:8–13, Part 3
10 december 2024 |
min
How do godly deacons gain great confidence in Christ? By serving in the strength God supplies, they repeatedly prove his willingness to equip where he calls.
Qualifications for Deacons: 1 Timothy 3:8–13, Part 2
7 december 2024 |
min
What are the qualifications to serve as a deacon in the church, and how do those qualifications match the office?
Did the Deacons Include Women? 1 Timothy 3:8–13, Part 1
3 december 2024 |
min
Paul presents the qualifications for deacons in 1 Timothy 3, but what exactly do deacons do? And does the office include women?
Revered at Home, Respected in the World: 1 Timothy 3:1–7, Part 5
30 november 2024 |
min
If a man cannot lead his family well and gain the respect of his neighbors, he is not fit for the office of elder.
Not Driven by Appetite or Money: 1 Timothy 3:1–7, Part 4
26 november 2024 |
min
What is the main virtue displayed by elders in the church? Self-control. They are not ruled by anything other than God and his word.
Irreproachable and Husband of One Wife: 1 Timothy 3:1–7, Part 3
23 november 2024 |
min
Any man who would be a leader in Christ’s church must be above reproach. But what does “above reproach” mean?
What Kind of Desire Leads to Godly Leadership? 1 Timothy 3:1–7, Part 2
19 november 2024 |
min
What kind of desire sends men into ministry and keeps them there? Durable desire, servant-hearted desire, holy desire, informed desire, mature desire.
Pastors Are Doing a Worthy Work: 1 Timothy 3:1–7, Part 1
16 november 2024 |
min
Do you honor your pastors? If they are doing what God calls them to do, they are doing good work, worthy work, work you should be thankful for.
The Woman Shall Be Saved Through Childbearing: 1 Timothy 2:11–15, Part 3
12 november 2024 |
min
When Paul says women “will be saved through childbearing,” what does he mean?
How Paul Roots a Woman’s Submission in Creation: 1 Timothy 2:11–15, Part 2
9 november 2024 |
min
The God-appointed callings of men and women are not arbitrary. They find their foundation in the very beginning, grounded in how God created us.
‘I Do Not Permit a Woman to Teach’: 1 Timothy 2:11–15, Part 1
5 november 2024 |
min
When Paul encourages women to be quiet, what does he mean? Not total silence, but the kind of submissive speech that does not contradict the calling of men to lead.
What Should Women Wear? 1 Timothy 2:8–10, Part 2
2 november 2024 |
min
When we dress to get attention, we signal our neediness. But the godly have their deepest needs already met, and they dress accordingly.
Holy Men, Modest Women: 1 Timothy 2:8–10, Part 1
29 oktober 2024 |
min
Men and women may wrestle with different kinds of temptations, but the end goal for both remains the same: holiness adorned with good works.
Paul, a Teacher of the Nations: 1 Timothy 2:5–7, Part 2
26 oktober 2024 |
min
Why did God appoint Paul to be a herald, an apostle, and a teacher? So that the offer of Christ’s ransom might be taken to the ends of the earth.
One God, One Mediator, One Ransom for All: 1 Timothy 2:5–7, Part 1
22 oktober 2024 |
min
In what sense is Jesus the ransom “for all,” as Paul says, if many are never reconciled to God?
If God Desires All to Be Saved, Why Aren’t They? 1 Timothy 2:1–4, Part 5
19 oktober 2024 |
min
If God desires all to be saved, but many are not saved, does God have a deeper desire that governs his desire for universal salvation?
What Does It Mean to Be Godly and Dignified? 1 Timothy 2:1–4, Part 4
15 oktober 2024 |
min
What does a life of godliness and dignity look like? Such a life is marked by God-directed reverence, serious joy grounded in weighty truth, and settled maturity.
How Should We Pray for Rulers? 1 Timothy 2:1–4, Part 3
12 oktober 2024 |
min
Paul encourages Christians to pray for kings and rulers, but to what end? What should we ask God to do in and through those who hold power?
Should Exiles Pray for the King? 1 Timothy 2:1–4, Part 2
8 oktober 2024 |
min
In this world, Christians live as sojourners and exiles, citizens of heaven under the lordship of Christ. So, how should we relate to earthly rulers?
Start with God, Stay with God: 1 Timothy 2:1–4, Part 1
5 oktober 2024 |
min
Our prayers should exclude no one. Kings and laymen, enemies and friends, rich and needy, wicked and righteous, near and far — we should pray for all kinds of people.
How Satan Saves Sinners: 1 Timothy 1:18–20, Part 4
1 oktober 2024 |
min
In the sovereignty of God, even Satan can serve as a means of sanctification. But when is it right to surrender egregious sinners into his hand?
How Does Rejecting Conscience Wreck Faith? 1 Timothy 1:18–20, Part 3
28 september 2024 |
min
When someone silences the voice of conscience and repeatedly prefers sin over the glory of the blessed God, faith ends up shipwrecked.
Pastor, Soldier, Athlete, Farmer, Manager: 1 Timothy 1:18–20, Part 2
24 september 2024 |
min
What images does the New Testament use to depict leaders in the church? Paul gives us several in the Pastoral Epistles, and they are all needed.
Wage War by Faith and a Good Conscience: 1 Timothy 1:18–20, Part 1
21 september 2024 |
min
When Paul talks about waging the good warfare, what does he mean? Where is the battle — and who are the combatants?
Why Paul Soars into Doxology: 1 Timothy 1:17
17 september 2024 |
min
Paul handles glories all the time, touching majesty in almost every line. Yet what kind of reality compels Paul into a soaring doxology? Eternal life.
Why Did God Allow Paul to Become a Persecutor? 1 Timothy 1:12–16, Part 4
14 september 2024 |
min
Why did God allow Paul, whom he would later call as an apostle, to become a Christ-persecutor and Christian-killer first?
Faith and Love Are the Overflow of Grace: 1 Timothy 1:12–16, Part 3
10 september 2024 |
min
By his grace, God unites believers with Christ, and from that vital union, the Christian life of faith and love flows forth.
Do Ignorance and Unbelief Deserve Mercy? 1 Timothy 1:12–16, Part 2
7 september 2024 |
min
Paul says that he received mercy because he “acted ignorantly in unbelief.” What does that mean? Did Paul’s ignorance merit God’s mercy?
Was Paul Found Faithful or Made Faithful? 1 Timothy 1:12–16, Part 1
3 september 2024 |
min
We live the Christian life in the strength of another. When we believe, Christ not only saves us but also empowers us for fruitful labor.
What Difference Does God’s Happiness Make? 1 Timothy 1:8–11, Part 3
30 augusti 2024 |
min
The happiness of the triune God beats at the very heart of reality: the Father has always delighted in the Son by the Spirit. All Christian joy finds its wellspring here.
What Is Healthy Teaching? 1 Timothy 1:8–11, Part 2
27 augusti 2024 |
min
What is healthy teaching? Teaching that fits with the gospel, agrees with the words of Jesus, and promotes the hearers’ godliness.
How Did the False Teachers Misuse the Law? 1 Timothy 1:8–11, Part 1
25 augusti 2024 |
min
God’s old-covenant law is good, but it can be applied in bad ways — such as by demanding that those justified by faith in Christ must keep it.
Where Does Empty Talk Come From? 1 Timothy 1:5–7
23 augusti 2024 |
min
What does the state of our heart have to do with the content of our speech? Everything.
God’s Household Plan for His Church: 1 Timothy 1:3–5, Part 2
20 augusti 2024 |
min
In his word, God has laid out his household plan, which aims to cultivate love, faith, and purity in his people. Do you know what that plan is?
The Problem with Christian Speculations: 1 Timothy 1:3–5, Part 1
18 augusti 2024 |
min
What separates sound doctrine from speculations? Sound doctrine serves godliness, accords with the gospel, and agrees with the words of Jesus.
The Fatherhood of God and the Lordship of Christ: 1 Timothy 1:1–2, Part 4
16 augusti 2024 |
min
Christians experience — not simply know — that God is our Father and Jesus is our Lord by the indwelling witness of the Holy Spirit.
How Is Timothy Paul’s Child? 1 Timothy 1:1–2, Part 3
13 augusti 2024 |
min
Some relationships run much deeper than blood. The bond between a spiritual father and his children is forged in Christ and lasts forever.
God Is Our Savior from What? 1 Timothy 1:1–2, Part 2
11 augusti 2024 |
min
Christians love to refer to Jesus as our Savior. But what exactly does Jesus save us from?
An Apostle by Command: 1 Timothy 1:1–2, Part 1
9 augusti 2024 |
min
Why does Paul begin his letter to Timothy by identifying himself not only as an apostle, but as an apostle “by command of God”?
Paul’s Authenticating Scars: Galatians 6:14–18, Part 5
6 augusti 2024 |
min
When Paul argues that he is an authentic apostle of Jesus, he points to the marks of persecution written on his flesh.
Walk by Faith, Not Works: Galatians 6:14–18, Part 4
4 augusti 2024 |
min
Faith results in two wonderful blessings for the believer: a new standing before God and a new life empowered by the Spirit.
Did Paul Really Boast Only in the Cross? Galatians 6:14–18, Part 3
2 augusti 2024 |
min
Why should Christians boast only in the cross? Because everything that we have as believers comes through the cross.
What Is the New Creation? Galatians 6:14–18, Part 2
30 juli 2024 |
min
Only Christ can take an instrument of death and make it the place where a new creation comes into being. The way of life runs through the cross.
The World Crucified to Me and I to the World: Galatians 6:14–18, Part 1
28 juli 2024 |
min
What does Paul mean when he says that the world has been crucified to him and he to the world? He no longer trusts and treasures the world. He trusts and treasures Christ.
Requiring Circumcision and Breaking the Law: Galatians 6:11–13
26 juli 2024 |
min
Legalism in Paul’s day and legalism in our own day share a similar root: the desire to impress fellow humans.
Hell and Heaven Are at Stake with Money: Galatians 6:6–10, Part 1
21 juli 2024 |
min
We may think that what we do with money matters little, but Paul teaches that where we choose to invest has eternal consequences.
Is Boasting Good or Bad? Galatians 6:1–5, Part 4
19 juli 2024 |
min
The New Testament treats much boasting as sinful, but it also calls us toward a holy kind of boasting. So, how should Christians boast?
Don’t Be Energized by Comparison: Galatians 6:1–5, Part 3
16 juli 2024 |
min
Do not determine the value of your work by comparing yourself with others. God calls each person to unique acts of faith, and comparison sours and spoils that calling.
What Is the Law of Christ? Galatians 6:1–5, Part 2
14 juli 2024 |
min
What is “the law of Christ” — and how does our fulfilling of this law relate to justification by faith alone?
How to Restore a Sinning Saint: Galatians 6:1–5, Part 1
12 juli 2024 |
min
Christian love is not passive. When love sees a brother or sister caught in sin, it does not shrink away but confronts in order to renew and restore.
If We Have the Spirit, Why Commands? Galatians 5:22–26, Part 3
9 juli 2024 |
min
If Christians have the Spirit of God leading and guiding them, why does the New Testament issue over four hundred commands to obey?
Keep in Step with the Spirit: Galatians 5:22–26, Part 2
7 juli 2024 |
min
Those made alive by the Spirit will keep in step with the Spirit. They will walk by the Spirit, sow to the Spirit, bear the fruit of the Spirit.
The Fruit of the Spirit Is the Fruit of Faith: Galatians 5:22–26, Part 1
5 juli 2024 |
min
If the fruit of the Spirit is a miracle that God produces in his people, what can we do to cultivate that fruit?
How Do We Inherit the Kingdom? Galatians 5:19–21, Part 2
2 juli 2024 |
min
How do Christians inherit the kingdom of God? Not by our work or merit, but by our union with the Son of God and offspring of Abraham.
Practicing Sin Destroys the Soul: Galatians 5:19–21, Part 1
30 juni 2024 |
min
If you live in sin, practice sin, and die in sin, you won’t go to heaven. You won’t be happy with God forever.
The War in the Christian Soul: Galatians 5:16–18, Part 4
28 juni 2024 |
min
How does God give us victory over the desires of the flesh? He reshapes and reorients our desires by his Spirit.
How Do We Love in the Power of Another? Galatians 5:16–18, Part 3
25 juni 2024 |
min
Competing desires war within every Christian — desires of the flesh and of the Spirit. How can we refuse to gratify what our flesh wants?
Does the Spirit Make Me a Robot? Galatians 5:16–18, Part 2
23 juni 2024 |
min
If Christians are indwelt by the Spirit of God, and if he guides and controls us, are we simply spiritual robots?
How Do I Receive the Spirit? Galatians 5:16–18, Part 1
21 juni 2024 |
min
All Christians should walk by the Spirit. But how? How do we experience the powerful, omnipotent, merciful, all-wise leading of the Spirit of God?
How Does Love Fulfill the Law? Galatians 5:13–15, Part 4
16 juni 2024 |
min
Paul says that the law is fulfilled in the command to “love your neighbor as yourself.” But how does such love fulfill the whole law?
Love Your Neighbor as You Love Yourself: Galatians 5:13–15, Part 3
14 juni 2024 |
min
What does it mean to love your neighbors as yourself? It means you seek their good with the same passion with which you seek your own, and you find your joy in theirs.
Freed from Flesh to Love: Galatians 5:13–15, Part 2
11 juni 2024 |
min
What prevents us from using our freedom in Christ as an opportunity to indulge the flesh? A life of faith is the opposite of a life in the flesh.
How Were We Called to Freedom? Galatians 5:13–15, Part 1
9 juni 2024 |
min
When God sovereignly calls us, he opens our eyes to see and embrace the beauty of Jesus. And that call grants freedom from obeying the law as a means of being justified.
Let Them Emasculate Themselves! Galatians 5:11–12, Part 2
7 juni 2024 |
min
Why does Paul use such shocking language against the false teachers in Galatia — and how should his rebuke inform the way we speak?
What Is the Offense of the Cross? Galatians 5:11–12, Part 1
4 juni 2024 |
min
Why is the cross so offensive to fallen man? Because the cross declares that no amount of human effort or law-keeping can make us right with God.
Why Such Confidence for the Galatians? Galatians 5:7–10, Part 2
2 juni 2024 |
min
More than once, how Paul feels toward certain Christians increases his confidence in their salvation. How does that kind of confidence work?
A Little Leaven Is Devastating: Galatians 5:7–10, Part 1
31 maj 2024 |
min
A little leaven, even just a little, leavens the whole lump. Mix a little law with the gospel, and you surrender the ground of grace.
The Faith That Counts Produces Fruit: Galatians 5:1–6, Part 8
28 maj 2024 |
min
What kind of faith unites us to Christ so that we are counted righteous before God? The faith that bears the fruit of love.
Waiting for the Hope of Righteousness: Galatians 5:1–6, Part 7
26 maj 2024 |
min
The church may be mocked, accused, and slandered now. But a day is coming when God will silence any doubt about his people’s righteousness.
Can You Lose Your Salvation? Galatians 5:1–6, Part 6
24 maj 2024 |
min
When Paul talks about being severed from Christ, does he imply that true Christians can lose their salvation?
Severed from Christ: Galatians 5:1–6, Part 5
21 maj 2024 |
min
Those who seek to be justified by the law sever themselves from Christ, fall away from grace, and commit eternal suicide.
Justification by Law Requires Perfection: Galatians 5:1–6, Part 4
19 maj 2024 |
min
The law cannot be divided — break but the smallest commandment, and you are guilty of all. We cannot be right with God through the law.
How to Cancel Every Blessing of Christ: Galatians 5:1–6, Part 3
17 maj 2024 |
min
If you claim works as part of the basis of being right with God, you trade grace for law, and you cancel every blessing of Christ from your life.
What Is Christian Freedom? Galatians 5:1–6, Part 2
14 maj 2024 |
min
If you try to be justified under the law, you will remain under the curse. But if you stand firm in the grace of the gospel, you will enjoy true freedom.
Don’t Turn Back to Slavery: Galatians 5:1–6, Part 1
12 maj 2024 |
min
Through the gospel of grace, Jesus Christ sets Christians free in order that they may remain free. Don’t turn back to slavery.
You Are a Child of the Free Woman: Galatians 4:21–31, Part 8
10 maj 2024 |
min
Christians are not slaves, but free. We are right with God not by works of the law, but by faith. We are born not of the flesh, but of the Spirit.
Persecuted for Being a Child of Promise: Galatians 4:21–31, Part 7
7 maj 2024 |
min
Children of promise are children born as the answer to a promise. Every Christian is a child spoken of beforehand, a fulfillment of God’s promise.
Rejoice, O Barren One! Galatians 4:21–31, Part 6
5 maj 2024 |
min
Abraham’s wife, Sarah, spent her childbearing years barren — but God fulfilled his promise to her. What can this experience teach us about Jesus’s work on the cross?
The Jerusalem Above Is Free: Galatians 4:21–31, Part 5
3 maj 2024 |
min
According to Paul, the Christian’s true home is the Jerusalem above — a heavenly city whose citizens are born of God and utterly free.
Hagar, the Mother of Slavery: Galatians 4:21–31, Part 4
30 april 2024 |
min
Hagar represents the effort to be right with God by keeping the law. But human effort can never bring forth the children of God. Hagar only begets slaves.
Born by Flesh, Born by Promise: Galatians 4:21–31, Part 3
28 april 2024 |
min
The children of God are not the product of human effort. Like Isaac, they are brought forth by divine promise based on divine prerogative.
A Tale of Two Mothers: Galatians 4:21–31, Part 2
26 april 2024 |
min
When Paul read his Old Testament, what implicit meaning did he see in the characters of Hagar and Sarah?
The Purpose of Allegory: Galatians 4:21–31, Part 1
23 april 2024 |
min
What is Paul’s main point in the allegory of Sarah and Hagar? What truth does he want his readers to see from this Old Testament story?
Paul the Matchmaker and the Mother: Galatians 4:17–20
21 april 2024 |
min
Children of God come into being when Christ is formed in them through faith. Paul compares his whole ministry to a matchmaker and a mother.
Why Would They Gouge Out Their Eyes? Galatians 4:12–16
19 april 2024 |
min
If you leave the gospel for the law, you are under an enchantment. To break the spell, remember the blessings that the gospel brings.
What Does It Mean to Be Known by God? Galatians 4:8–11, Part 3
16 april 2024 |
min
If God knows everything and everyone, what does Paul mean when he describes Christians as those who are known by God?
Do Unbelievers Know God? Galatians 4:8–11, Part 2
14 april 2024 |
min
Even though people can know about God through creation, hard hearts suppress that knowledge. Thus, sinners do not know God.
The Incomprehensibility of Turning to Law: Galatians 4:8–11, Part 1
12 april 2024 |
min
For Paul, pagan idolatry and reliance on the law to get right with God amount to the same thing. Neither can offer any help to save our souls.
The Spirit in Us Cries ‘Abba Father’: Galatians 4:1–7, Part 5
9 april 2024 |
min
When Paul describes the Spirit’s witness in the heart of believers, he says the Spirit cries, “Abba!” Why is that name so significant?
Christ Redeems Sinners for Adoption: Galatians 4:1–7, Part 4
7 april 2024 |
min
Why did Jesus need to be born of a woman as a human being in order to redeem those under the curse of the law?
Does God Have a Son? Galatians 4:1–7, Part 3
5 april 2024 |
min
God sent his Son into the world, born of a woman and under the law. Few statements hold more import, wonder, and mystery.
What Is the Fullness of Time? Galatians 4:1–7, Part 2
2 april 2024 |
min
Paul says that the law was given by God to act as a guardian until “the fullness of time” had come to pass. When is the fullness of time?
Slavery to Law Is Like Pagan Religion: Galatians 4:1–7, Part 1
31 mars 2024 |
min
God intended the law to act as a guardian, pointing us to our need for a redeemer. However, when we put our faith in the law, it’s no better than the rules of pagan religions.
You Are All Sons of God Through Faith: Galatians 3:23–29, Part 3
29 mars 2024 |
min
How do people become sons of God and heirs to his promises? They must put on Jesus Christ, God’s true Son, by faith and not by law-keeping.
The Law as a Guardian unto Christ: Galatians 3:23–29, Part 2
26 mars 2024 |
min
Paul calls the law “a guardian” meant to lead us to Christ. What does that mean? How does the law guard us and guide us to Jesus?
Centuries of Prison Before Christ: Galatians 3:23–29, Part 1
24 mars 2024 |
min
Paul reveals that God gave the law to pave the way to faith in Jesus, who fulfills the law completely.
The Law Came Through Angels: Galatians 3:19–22, Part 2
22 mars 2024 |
min
The New Testament authors insist that the law was given to Moses by angels. Why would they repeat that?
The Law Imprisoned People Under Sin: Galatians 3:19–22, Part 1
19 mars 2024 |
min
If God made the promise of life to Abraham based on faith, then does the law contradict that grace? Does the law present a different way of life?
Not Seeds, but Seed, Namely, Christ: Galatians 3:15–18, Part 2
17 mars 2024 |
min
Why does Paul insist that the promises made to Abraham were made to his singular seed? That nuance is vital to our salvation.
The Law Did Not Teach Life Comes Through Law: Galatians 3:15–18, Part 1
15 mars 2024 |
min
Does the law given through Moses somehow contradict the covenant of faith made with Abraham? Why does that matter to us?
Christ Became a Curse for Us: Galatians 3:10–14, Part 3
12 mars 2024 |
min
The only result of attempting to be justified by works will be curse, but Christ took our curse on the cross. How does that exchange work?
The Law Is Not of Faith? Galatians 3:10–14, Part 2
10 mars 2024 |
min
Obedience to the law can never make a person right before God, but the faith that saves produces works that conform to the law.
The Law-Path to God Is Cursed: Galatians 3:10–14, Part 1
8 mars 2024 |
min
Trying to be right with God through works is an all-or-nothing enterprise. If you do not keep the whole law, you have violated the whole law.
How Do Gentiles Become Sons of Abraham? Galatians 3:6–9, Part 3
5 mars 2024 |
min
How do Gentiles become sons of Abraham? And what is the blessing promised to all of Abraham’s true heirs?
How Is Faith Counted as Righteousness? Galatians 3:6–9, Part 2
3 mars 2024 |
min
Galatians says that Abraham’s faith was counted to him as righteousness. What did that mean for him, and what does it mean for us?
The Law Refutes Justification by Law: Galatians 3:6–9, Part 1
1 mars 2024 |
min
We know that the New Testament teaches justification by faith alone, but what about the Old Testament? Does it teach salvation by faith or by works?
The Spirit Moves Through Hearing with Faith: Galatians 3:1–5, Part 4
27 februari 2024 |
min
The Spirit is both the gift of faith and the agent of faith. We receive him by faith, and he grants the very faith by which we receive him.
God Works Wonders Through Faith: Galatians 3:1–5, Part 3
25 februari 2024 |
min
Neither the beginning, nor the middle, nor the end of the Christian life is left untouched by the saving might of the Spirit.
Begin and End by the Spirit: Galatians 3:1–5, Part 2
23 februari 2024 |
min
The Christian life both begins and continues by the work of the Holy Spirit.
Shifting from Legal to Experiential Salvation: Galatians 3:1–5, Part 1
20 februari 2024 |
min
The Christian life consists of more than a right legal standing before God. By the Holy Spirit, we can experience actual fellowship with God.
I Do Not Nullify the Grace of God: Galatians 2:17–21, Part 4
18 februari 2024 |
min
Christ gave himself for our sins. He was punished for our sins. He paid the penalty for our sins. And, therefore, his death was not in vain.
I Have Been Crucified with Christ: Galatians 2:17–21, Part 3
16 februari 2024 |
min
What does it mean to be crucified with Christ? What does it mean to have him live in us? These are two crucial questions for every soul.
Justification by Law-Keeping Breaks the Law: Galatians 2:17–21, Part 2
13 februari 2024 |
min
To depend on your works to earn a right standing with God is not only to reject grace but to break the law itself.
Did the Gospel Make Paul a Sinner? Galatians 2:17–21, Part 1
11 februari 2024 |
min
Do you know what words like “sinners,” “righteous,” and “grace” actually mean? A key to studying Scripture is to not let key words remain vague.
What Is Justifying Faith? Galatians 2:15–16, Part 5
9 februari 2024 |
min
What is saving faith? Historically, the answer has included three basic elements: knowing, assenting, and trusting.
What Are ‘Works of the Law’? Galatians 2:15–16, Part 4
6 februari 2024 |
min
If we choose to get right with God by our works, we continue under a curse. Only through faith in Jesus can we be justified.
How Could God Acquit the Guilty? Galatians 2:15–16, Part 3
4 februari 2024 |
min
One reason we don’t enjoy salvation as we should is that we don’t feel the weight of what it means for a holy God to forgive sin.
What Does Justification Mean? Galatians 2:15–16, Part 2
2 februari 2024 |
min
Justification is at the heart of the Christian faith. Yet since the days of Jesus, people have repeatedly gotten it wrong.
Are Jews at an Advantage for Justification? Galatians 2:15–16, Part 1
30 januari 2024 |
min
Even though Jews had unique blessings from God, when it comes to salvation, both Jews and Gentiles are saved by faith alone.
An Apostle’s Failure to Live the Gospel: Galatians 2:11–14
28 januari 2024 |
min
As Paul’s confrontation of Peter demonstrates, fear of man leads to walking out of step with the gospel and denying the freedom of grace.
The Most Important Handshake in the World: Galatians 2:6–10
26 januari 2024 |
min
The most important handshake in history happened when the apostles extended the right hand of fellowship to Paul in Jerusalem.
The Gospel of Freedom Imperiled: Galatians 2:3–5
23 januari 2024 |
min
The gospel of grace justifies by faith alone. To add any amount of good works or law-keeping to the gospel creates slavery instead of freedom.
Was Paul at Odds with the Apostles? Galatians 2:1–2
21 januari 2024 |
min
In Galatians, Paul unpacks his encounters with the other apostles. Were they really at odds with one another?
Let All Apologetics Aim at Worship: Galatians 1:21–24
19 januari 2024 |
min
Through rational, logical arguments, all Christian apologetics should aim to cultivate heartfelt, affectionate worship.
Paul Has Won My Trust: Galatians 1:18–20
16 januari 2024 |
min
When you read the letters of Paul, hear him argue, witness how he deals with controversy, and witness his character, he will win your trust.
Why Did God Let Paul Persecute Christians? Galatians 1:11–17, Part 4
14 januari 2024 |
min
Even though God chose Paul for salvation, he permitted him to become a persecutor of the church and a zealot for false teaching. Why?
The Sovereign Roots of Paul’s Apostleship: Galatians 1:11–17, Part 3
12 januari 2024 |
min
Election, calling, grace — how do these elements of God’s plan come together in Paul’s conversion? How do they come together in ours?
Paul’s Argument for His Authority: Galatians 1:11–17, Part 2
9 januari 2024 |
min
Paul’s conversion from being anti-gospel, anti-church, and anti-Christ can only be explained by a genuine revelation of Jesus Christ.
This Gospel Did Not Come from Man: Galatians 1:11–17, Part 1
7 januari 2024 |
min
Where did the apostle Paul learn the gospel? What does he mean when he says that his message is “not man’s gospel”?
A Man Who Refused to Please Men: Galatians 1:10
5 januari 2024 |
min
In this verse, the apostle Paul utterly rejects man-pleasing, but elsewhere he says he seeks to please everyone in everything. How can he say both?
Authority Above Angels and Popes: Galatians 1:6–9, Part 2
2 januari 2024 |
min
The Reformation leaned on the power of Galatians because this letter champions the supreme authority of Scripture over all other authorities.
How to Lose the God of Grace: Galatians 1:6–9, Part 1
31 december 2023 |
min
Paul was astonished because the Galatian church had abandoned God and the gospel. How were they leaving the truth, and why?
How Ultimate Is the Glory of God? Galatians 1:3–5, Part 4
29 december 2023 |
min
God expresses his grace to sinners in the giving of his Son, which results in the deliverance of God’s people for the glory of his name.
Delivered from the Present Evil Age: Galatians 1:3–5, Part 3
26 december 2023 |
min
Why do many people today fail to see the beauty of God in Christ? Because this present age is evil, characterized by darkness and death.
He Gave Himself for Our Sins: Galatians 1:3–5, Part 2
24 december 2023 |
min
The fact that Christ laid down his life for Paul captivated the apostle. Do you marvel at the cross and the love of Christ for you?
The Glory of Grace and Peace: Galatians 1:3–5, Part 1
22 december 2023 |
min
What exactly is the grace of God? Grace is God’s disposition to treat people better than they deserve — to save us despite our sin.
Unusual First Words for Paul: Galatians 1:1–2, Part 4
19 december 2023 |
min
How does Paul’s greeting to the Galatians convey the seriousness of the letter that follows? What makes the greeting unique?
Authorized by God, Father and Son: Galatians 1:1–2, Part 3
17 december 2023 |
min
Paul opens his letter to the Galatians with an incredible statement of his authority. Why does he do that?
How Do We Know Paul’s Words Are God’s Words? Galatians 1:1–2, Part 2
15 december 2023 |
min
What is an apostle, and how does the authority of an apostle change the way we should read the letters of Paul?
Paul’s Background Is a Mercy to Us: Galatians 1:1–2, Part 1
12 december 2023 |
min
Who was Paul before God made him an apostle? What can we learn from his life, conversion, and death?
Summary of Colossians: Colossians 1–4
10 december 2023 |
min
In his glorious letter to the Colossians, what was the most foundational truth Paul wanted to communicate?
My Signature. My Chains. My Blessing. Colossians 4:15–18
8 december 2023 |
min
What do Paul’s final words in the letter to the Colossians reveal about his priorities and about his deep affection for the saints in that city?
Agonizing in Prayer to the Point of Pain: Colossians 4:10–14, Part 2
5 december 2023 |
min
Christians should labor in prayer. They should be like athletes in prayer who struggle for the glory of God and the good of others.
Cultivating Christian Connectedness: Colossians 4:10–14, Part 1
3 december 2023 |
min
How do the greetings in Paul’s letters serve the connectedness of the church? And how might Christians better greet one another in Christ today?
How Could Bad News Encourage Anyone? Colossians 4:7–9
1 december 2023 |
min
In the providence of God, even the events that we view as obstacles work to advance the gospel. God turns barriers into blessings.
Grace and Salt for Each Outsider: Colossians 4:5–6
28 november 2023 |
min
What does it mean to have your speech seasoned with salt? Salt-seasoned words reveal the gospel of grace to those who have not yet tasted it.
Your Prayers Help the Word Run: Colossians 4:2–4, Part 2
26 november 2023 |
min
How should Christians pray for preachers of the gospel? Pray that God would open doors for his word to be proclaimed boldly and fruitfully.
Faithful, Watchful, Thankful in Prayer: Colossians 4:2–4, Part 1
24 november 2023 |
min
What should characterize the Christian prayer life? Steadfastness, watchfulness, and thanksgiving.
When Masters Are Also Slaves: Colossians 3:22–4:1, Part 6
21 november 2023 |
min
Paul leaves the shell of slavery in place, but guts it from the inside. How then should Christians today orient to slavery?
Slaves of Christ and Not Man: Colossians 3:22–4:1, Part 5
19 november 2023 |
min
All Christian work is done for the Lord. No matter where you work or what you do for work, “Christ is your Lord, not any man.”
Should Fear of God Motivate Us? Colossians 3:22–4:1, Part 4
17 november 2023 |
min
If perfect love casts out fear, what does it mean to fear the Lord, and how does that motivate sincere obedience?
Is People-Pleasing Ever Right? Colossians 3:22–4:1, Part 3
14 november 2023 |
min
People-pleasing is evil because it’s born of a duplicitous heart. But is there such a thing as good people-pleasing?
God and Limited Authorities in Christ: Colossians 3:22–4:1, Part 2
12 november 2023 |
min
Wives, children, citizens, church members, and slaves first submit to God, and then for his sake, submit to human authorities.
How Paul Gutted Slavery: Colossians 3:22–4:1, Part 1
10 november 2023 |
min
Christians should aim to think about everything in light of Scripture. How then should Christians think about slavery?
How Not to Break Your Child’s Spirit: Colossians 3:18–21, Part 7
7 november 2023 |
min
Fathers, do not discourage your children with excessive demands. Instead, encourage your kids by teaching them to hope in God.
Children, Obey Your Parents! Colossians 3:18–21, Part 6
5 november 2023 |
min
Why should parents diligently teach their children to obey? Because the Lord takes delight in the glad-hearted obedience of children.
Husbands, Love Your Wives! Colossians 3:18–21, Part 5
3 november 2023 |
min
What does it mean for a husband to become embittered toward his wife? How can we overcome such bitterness?
What Is Submission ‘In the Lord’? Colossians 3:18–21, Part 4
31 oktober 2023 |
min
Wives who trust the Lord are fearless. How does this confidence in Christ affect how they relate to their earthly husbands?
The Design of Creation for Man and Woman: Colossians 3:18–21, Part 3
29 oktober 2023 |
min
God saw his created order for marriage as good. What order did he intend, and why do godly women joyfully submit to their husbands?
A Wife’s Submission Is Fitting: Colossians 3:18–21, Part 2
27 oktober 2023 |
min
Why should Christian wives submit to their husbands? What does it mean for a wife to submit to her husband “as is fitting in the Lord”?
Citizens of Heaven Still Have Earthly Families: Colossians 3:18–21, Part 1
24 oktober 2023 |
min
We do not belong to this world, nor to the things of this world. How then shall we live out our time in this world?
Do Everything in the Name of King Jesus: Colossians 3:15–17, Part 4
22 oktober 2023 |
min
How we speak and act reflects something about our King. What tangible effect has that had on your Christian life?
Songs Rich with the Word of Christ: Colossians 3:15–17, Part 3
20 oktober 2023 |
min
Does it really matter if we sing in the Christian life or not? Could we really be spiritually stunted if we refuse to greet one another with songs?
How Does the Peace of Christ Rule? Colossians 3:15–17, Part 2
17 oktober 2023 |
min
Everyone lives by a rule. How can the “peace of Christ” rule in our hearts, homes, and communities?
Is Christian Peace in My Heart or in the Church? Colossians 3:15–17, Part 1
15 oktober 2023 |
min
Panic often prevents peace. In a world lacking calmness, what does it mean to be called to the peace of Christ?
How Does Love Bind Everything Together? Colossians 3:12–14, Part 4
13 oktober 2023 |
min
God calls us to marvel at Christ’s love which forgives and renews us. How does this fascination functionally change how we live?
The Perplexities of Forgiving and Forbearing: Colossians 3:12–14, Part 3
10 oktober 2023 |
min
The bite of others’ sin hurts more when repentance never comes. How do Christians become long-suffering in relationships?
Put on Bowels of Mercy: Colossians 3:12–14, Part 2
8 oktober 2023 |
min
You need biblical bowels. What on earth are those, and how does a Christian embrace this unusual command?
Christian, You Are Chosen, Holy, Loved: Colossians 3:12–14, Part 1
6 oktober 2023 |
min
What difference does it make in our actual lives as Christians to know ourselves as chosen, holy, and loved by God?
The End of Ethnic Strife in the Church: Colossians 3:11
3 oktober 2023 |
min
The alternative to ethnic strife that divides the world is a Christ-centered, Christ-empowered love that unites his people.
Develop a Radical Love for Truth: Colossians 3:5–10, Part 7
1 oktober 2023 |
min
If we functionally replace God from the center of our lives with some other god, we cannot be people of the truth.
The Cravings Behind Our Anger: Colossians 3:5–10, Part 6
29 september 2023 |
min
Anger boils when our cravings are denied. The new man in Christ must put away all unrighteous anger and replace it with grateful joy.
Why Warn Saints About Wrath? Colossians 3:5–10, Part 5
26 september 2023 |
min
If Christians are safe from God’s wrath, why does God warn them about it?
How to Put Sexual Immorality to Death: Colossians 3:5–10, Part 4
24 september 2023 |
min
How do we gain victory over a sin that continually tempts us with the promise of pleasure?
What Is Sexual Immorality? Colossians 3:5–10, Part 3
22 september 2023 |
min
How do we know what a biblical author means when he uses words that we almost never use?
Where Is the Spirit in Colossians? Colossians 3:5–10, Part 2
19 september 2023 |
min
Paul seems extremely shy to mention the Spirit in Colossians. He does so explicitly only once. Why might that be?
Kill What’s Killed, Renew What’s New: Colossians 3:5–10, Part 1
17 september 2023 |
min
When sinfulness remains and newness of life delays, how should Christians make sense of it all?
Relentlessly Seek Reality Above: Colossians 3:1–4, Part 8
15 september 2023 |
min
Nothing on earth can compete with the worth of Christ, so we are called to seek him with all our hearts and minds.
Christ Is Coming in Glory: Colossians 3:1–4, Part 7
12 september 2023 |
min
Grace upon grace, resurrection from the dead, transformation into unimaginable glory, and the unceasing company of our Lord — can you imagine?
Your Life Is Hidden with Christ in God: Colossians 3:1–4, Part 6
10 september 2023 |
min
One day we will all shine like the sun. What will our now-hidden lives look like on that day?
Christ Is Your Life: Colossians 3:1–4, Part 5
8 september 2023 |
min
Christ is our life now, but how do we experience that life? Scripture illuminates how this life flows to Christians through faith.
Seated at the Right Hand of God: Colossians 3:1–4, Part 4
5 september 2023 |
min
Why is it significant that Jesus sits at the right hand of God? Exult in the current physical location of Christ.
Christian, You Have Been Raised! Colossians 3:1–4, Part 3
3 september 2023 |
min
Satan entices us to believe that our sin defines us. How does unity with Christ forever change the way we battle that lie?
Christian, You Are Dead! Colossians 3:1–4, Part 2
1 september 2023 |
min
Death precedes true life. Christ exemplifies this, and we follow in his footsteps. How should this change how we live?
Obedience Confirms Our Resurrection: Colossians 3:1–4, Part 1
29 augusti 2023 |
min
Christ calls his disciples to be doers of the word, not hearers only. How does our union with Christ relate to obeying his commands?
Self-Made Religion Is Useless: Colossians 2:20–23
27 augusti 2023 |
min
Christians have died to man-made worship and any religious effort that would try to commend them to God apart from Christ.
Why We Do Not Worship Angels: Colossians 2:18–19
25 augusti 2023 |
min
God has provided one Mediator between God and man, and he is far greater than any heavenly or fallen angel.
Shadows of Christ, the Substance: Colossians 2:16–17
22 augusti 2023 |
min
If Christianity is rooted in the Old Testament, why are Christians not keeping so much of what God commanded there?
How Did the Cross Defeat Satan? Colossians 2:13–15, Part 5
20 augusti 2023 |
min
Through his crucifixion, Christ silenced the accuser, nullified the terror of death, and delivered sinners from the dominion of sin.
Can the Innocent Die for the Guilty? Colossians 2:13–15, Part 4
18 augusti 2023 |
min
Does it satisfy the standards of God’s justice for an innocent one to die for the guilty?
The Gospel: Salvation by Substitution: Colossians 2:13–15, Part 3
15 augusti 2023 |
min
God obliterates our record of debt by nailing it to the cross through the substitutionary death of Christ.
How Did God Make Us Alive? Colossians 2:13–15, Part 2
13 augusti 2023 |
min
The plights of our sinful state — deadness, blindness, hardness, and inability — were all resolved decisively in the moment God made us alive.
How Dead Are We Before Christ? Colossians 2:13–15, Part 1
11 augusti 2023 |
min
Death before life is the testimony of all who really live. Do you know how bleak things were before God brought you to life?
The Glorious Reality Baptism Reveals: Colossians 2:11–12, Part 3
8 augusti 2023 |
min
Our union with Christ in his death and resurrection should tangibly, observably define how we live in this world.
What Is a Circumcision Without Hands? Colossians 2:11–12, Part 2
6 augusti 2023 |
min
What is the body of the flesh, and how do you put it off? What exactly is cut away in this “circumcision of Christ”?
The Sign of Circumcision and Baptism: Colossians 2:11–12, Part 1
4 augusti 2023 |
min
Christians have received a circumcision that is “made without hands.” What is this circumcision, and what does it do?
Filled with the Head of All Authorities: Colossians 2:6–10, Part 4
1 augusti 2023 |
min
To be filled in Christ is to possess the riches of his inexhaustible love, unsearchable wisdom, and unrivaled rule.
All Deity in Christ Bodily Now: Colossians 2:6–10, Part 3
30 juli 2023 |
min
The incarnation of the Son of God reveals any denigrating of the human body as a man-made, deceitful philosophy.
What Is Wrong with Philosophy? Colossians 2:6–10, Part 2
28 juli 2023 |
min
Christ is the treasure chest of wisdom and knowledge. Any philosophy that would exclude him excludes Wisdom himself.
The Divine Tradition of Walking in Christ: Colossians 2:6–10, Part 1
25 juli 2023 |
min
Faith rooted in Christ, built on him as its firm foundation, will not be blown about by every new gust of doctrine.
Spiritual Antibodies Against Delusion: Colossians 2:4–5
23 juli 2023 |
min
Many people are deceived by false teaching and lost while believing that they know the truth. How do we resist such deceptions?
Love, Unity, and Assurance in the Truth: Colossians 2:1–3, Part 2
21 juli 2023 |
min
Communities bound together in love will better know the great riches of Christ than communities divided by rivalry.
What Was Worth So Much Struggle? Colossians 2:1–3, Part 1
18 juli 2023 |
min
God gives good gifts to his church when he gives her good men to serve as pastors. The work is challenging, but worth every sacrifice.
How to Struggle in the Strength of Christ: Colossians 1:28–29, Part 2
16 juli 2023 |
min
When we put our hands to the plow of our Christian lives, we cannot leave prayer behind. God gives the strength we need; he must work within us.
Who Presents Believers Mature in Christ? Colossians 1:28–29, Part 1
14 juli 2023 |
min
Our growth in Christ can seem so slow and the road so long, but we can take comfort knowing that God himself is maturing us.
The Wealth of the Glory of Mystery: Colossians 1:24–27, Part 4
11 juli 2023 |
min
The welcoming of the nations into the unspeakable hope of the glory of God is the mystery revealed to the elect in the gospel of Christ.
What Is Lacking in Christ’s Afflictions? Colossians 1:24–27, Part 3
9 juli 2023 |
min
What is lacking in Christ’s afflictions? The personal, bodily, costly presentation of his love to the elect through missionaries.
The Amazing Apostolic Heart of Love: Colossians 1:24–27, Part 2
7 juli 2023 |
min
Paul understood his sufferings for the gospel as an essential means to bring about the salvation of the elect.
Six Reasons to Rejoice in Suffering: Colossians 1:24–27, Part 1
4 juli 2023 |
min
The New Testament provides at least six reasons for why Christians embrace the trials they undergo with joy.
Global Response, Personal Apostle: Colossians 1:21–23, Part 4
2 juli 2023 |
min
God is no tribal deity. He will see to it that his gospel reaches every tribe, people, language, and nation under heaven.
Conditional Reconciliation and Eternal Security: Colossians 1:21–23, Part 3
30 juni 2023 |
min
God uses the warning passages of Scripture to stimulate us to fight for faith. And he uses that fight to keep us safe until the end.
Reconciliation Accomplished and Applied: Colossians 1:21–23, Part 2
27 juni 2023 |
min
God achieves reconciliation at the cross and applies it to us through faith, and he does it all to bring the elect to himself.
Our Minds Were Hostile to God: Colossians 1:21–23, Part 1
25 juni 2023 |
min
Alienated. Enemies. Evil. We won’t revel as we ought in the reconciling work of Christ unless we know who we were without him.
Reconciliation of All Things by Blood: Colossians 1:19–20, Part 2
23 juni 2023 |
min
When God finishes his reconciling work, there will be nothing left unreconciled to him.
All the Fullness of God in Christ: Colossians 1:19–20, Part 1
20 juni 2023 |
min
The central truths of the gospel of reconciliation are bound up in the mystery of the Trinity.
Entranced by the Supremacy of Christ: Colossians 1:15–18, Part 3
18 juni 2023 |
min
The one who humbly stoops to save his people is the infinitely supreme Creator and Upholder of all things.
Christ Created All Things to Display Christ: Colossians 1:15–18, Part 2
16 juni 2023 |
min
God created all things through the Son so that all might know the beauty and glory and supremacy of the Son.
How Is Jesus the Firstborn of Creation? Colossians 1:15–18, Part 1
13 juni 2023 |
min
When Scripture calls Jesus “the firstborn of creation,” he doesn’t mean firstborn as part of creation.
How Do We Become the Redeemed? Colossians 1:13–14, Part 3
11 juni 2023 |
min
Through faith, Christians are delivered from bondage to Satan and transferred to the kingdom of the Son.
How Did Jesus Free Us from Satan? Colossians 1:13–14, Part 2
9 juni 2023 |
min
At the cross, Satan’s one weapon of damnation is taken away. Jesus’s sacrifice cancels our record of debt.
Delivered from Satanic Authority: Colossians 1:13–14, Part 1
6 juni 2023 |
min
To be a Christian means God delivered you from the rule of Satan to live under the rule of God’s beloved Son.
God Qualifies Us for Eternal Light: Colossians 1:9–12, Part 9
4 juni 2023 |
min
The Father has mercifully and freely adopted us into his family and placed us in the bright kingdom of his Son.
Strengthened Through Joy for Endurance: Colossians 1:9–12, Part 8
2 juni 2023 |
min
What produces the kind of strength we need to patiently and joyfully endure? The glory of God.
Knowing God by Bearing Fruit: Colossians 1:9–12, Part 7
30 maj 2023 |
min
The good works God brings about through our lives are a means he uses to increase our knowledge of him.
How Does Our Walking Please God? Colossians 1:9–12, Part 6
27 maj 2023 |
min
How does one walk in a manner worthy of the Lord? Value him in your work, in your play, in your worship.
How Are We Filled with the Knowledge of God’s Will? Colossians 1:9–12, Part 5
25 maj 2023 |
min
How can I know God’s will for my life? How can I live a life pleasing to him in everything I do?
Does Paul Pray for Perfection in This Life? Colossians 1:9–12, Part 4
23 maj 2023 |
min
Pray for fellow believers that they might grow in Christian maturity, that is, that they would know God’s will and walk in a manner pleasing to him.
God’s Will of Decree and Decree of Command: Colossians 1:9–12, Part 3
20 maj 2023 |
min
Understanding all the Bible says about God’s will requires one to think in two categories: the sovereign will of God and the moral will of God.
Partnering with God in a Thousand Prayers: Colossians 1:9–12, Part 2
18 maj 2023 |
min
Through prayer, we participate in God’s ongoing work of strengthening the saints and bringing them to full maturity.
Doctrinal Prayer, Prayerful Doctrine: Colossians 1:9–12, Part 1
16 maj 2023 |
min
Prayer and careful thinking about God aren’t separate activities. Prayer should precede theology; theology should inform prayer.
Does Faith or the Spirit Produce Love? Colossians 1:3–8, Part 8
13 maj 2023 |
min
Faith in the promises of God overflows in love toward others by the gracious working of the Spirit in the heart.
The Global Impact of the Gospel: Colossians 1:3–8, Part 7
11 maj 2023 |
min
The gospel is not static. It increasingly advances throughout the world and grows in the heart of believers.
Six Aspects of the Glorious Gospel: Colossians 1:3–8, Part 6
9 maj 2023 |
min
A gospel presentation that stops at the forgiveness of sins has missed the ultimate aim of the gospel, namely full and forever joy in God himself.
The Gospel Is the Word of Truth: Colossians 1:3–8, Part 5
6 maj 2023 |
min
The gospel is not just a truth to know, but a truth to be embraced and loved and taught and proclaimed.
Hope Awakens Faith and Faith Awakens Love: Colossians 1:3–8, Part 4
4 maj 2023 |
min
Faith that truly embraces the hope laid up in heaven reveals itself through good works that are done in love.
How Does a Future Hope Awaken Faith Now? Colossians 1:3–8, Part 3
2 maj 2023 |
min
Moses could renounce the pleasures of Egypt because of his coming reward. In the same way, Christians reject the world and put all our hope in Christ.
What Is Our Hope Laid Up in Heaven? Colossians 1:3–8, Part 2
29 april 2023 |
min
Our hope laid up in heaven includes forgiveness of sins, a dwelling in the kingdom of Christ, and an inheritance in light.
We Are Not Sons of God Like Jesus Is: Colossians 1:3–8, Part 1
27 april 2023 |
min
Jesus’s sonship is not like ours. All the benefits we enjoy as sons come to us through the only-begotten, eternal Son of the Father.
If God Is Your Father, Grace Flows Continually: Colossians 1:1–2, Part 5
25 april 2023 |
min
The people who have God as their Father are the recipients of his inheritance, namely, boundless grace and perfect peace.
Productive Imprisonment and Beloved Partners: Colossians 1:1–2, Part 4
22 april 2023 |
min
Prison, for the apostle, was not a time for pity parties, but for productive labor on behalf of local churches.
What Does It Mean to Be a Saint? Colossians 1:1–2, Part 3
20 april 2023 |
min
Every believer is someone who has already been made holy through his union with Christ by faith.
The Relational Authenticity and Wisdom of Paul: Colossians 1:1–2, Part 2
18 april 2023 |
min
The apostle mentions his fellow ministers, in part, to show how important relational dynamics are in the exercise of Christian authority.
A Persecutor of Christians Was Made an Apostle: Colossians 1:1–2, Part 1
15 april 2023 |
min
What we read in the apostles is not mere human wisdom, but wisdom taught by the Spirit. 
How Would You Summarize 2 Thessalonians? 2 Thessalonians 3:16–18, Part 2
13 april 2023 |
min
How might you summarize Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians? In this lab, Pastor John makes an attempt.
Peaceful Relations Are Precious, Not Ultimate: 2 Thessalonians 3:16–18, Part 1
11 april 2023 |
min
Peace is precious. Peace is to be prized. But peace is not to be pursued at any cost.
How Long Are We Patient with the Idle? 2 Thessalonians 3:11–16, Part 3
8 april 2023 |
min
The aim of holy ostracism is to cause shame in a fellow believer so that they might turn and walk in the light.
Five Implications of ‘Eat Your Own Bread’: 2 Thessalonians 3:11–16, Part 2
6 april 2023 |
min
There are at least five significant implications from Paul’s command to the Thessalonian church to “eat your own bread.”
As New Creatures, Eat What You Earn: 2 Thessalonians 3:11–16, Part 1
4 april 2023 |
min
God created mankind for good works. When he makes us new in Christ, his purpose remains the same.
Does ‘No Work, No Food’ Mean No Mercy? 2 Thessalonians 3:6–10, Part 3
1 april 2023 |
min
When someone sins against us, Christians are not always called to turn the other cheek.
Why Did Paul Refuse Gifts of Food? 2 Thessalonians 3:6–10, Part 2
30 mars 2023 |
min
Pastors ought to be paid for their labors, but they should never give the impression that they labor for money.
Sometimes Ostracism Brings Reconciliation: 2 Thessalonians 3:6–10, Part 1
28 mars 2023 |
min
Christians must have a category for shaming other Christians so that they might repent and be reconciled.
Prayer as an Answer to Prayer: 2 Thessalonians 3:1–5, Part 5
25 mars 2023 |
min
Hearts that remain firm through trials don’t depend on their own strength, but hang on the steadfastness of Christ.
An Obedient Church Deals with Disobedience: 2 Thessalonians 3:1–5, Part 4
23 mars 2023 |
min
Disobedient churches deal lightly, if at all, with flagrant disobedience. Obedient churches consistently practice church discipline.
What Is the Faithfulness of God? 2 Thessalonians 3:1–5, Part 3
21 mars 2023 |
min
The deepest ground of God’s faithfulness, to his word and to his people, is his faithfulness to his own self.
God Is Decisive in Obedience — So Why Pray? 2 Thessalonians 3:1–5, Part 2
18 mars 2023 |
min
God works through prayer to establish and guard us in the faith. Prayer is the lifeline by which he holds us fast.
Offense and Defense in Prayer for the Word: 2 Thessalonians 3:1–5, Part 1
16 mars 2023 |
min
Prayer is an offensive weapon and a defensive weapon. Do you utilize it in both ways?
How Paul Prays Eternal Comfort into Heart Comfort: 2 Thessalonians 2:13–17, Part 7
14 mars 2023 |
min
The apostle Paul wants Christians to subjectively experience the comfort that is already objectively ours in Christ.
Are Traditions Good or Bad? 2 Thessalonians 2:13–17, Part 6
11 mars 2023 |
min
The church ought to preserve traditions that evidence biblical fidelity — and discard those that elevate our ways over Scripture.
Stand! The Command. The Prayer. The Promise.: 2 Thessalonians 2:13–17, Part 5
9 mars 2023 |
min
Christians stand firm by holding to the truth, depending on God in prayer, and hoping in his promise to keep us.
Called to Holiness, Called to Glory: 2 Thessalonians 2:13–17, Part 4
7 mars 2023 |
min
God’s call to his people is not merely a call to salvation. God’s call is for us to share in his glory.
How Sanctification Confirms Saving Faith: 2 Thessalonians 2:13–17, Part 3
4 mars 2023 |
min
Are we becoming more like Jesus by the power of the Spirit? If not, we have reason to question whether our faith is real.
God Won’t Leave Salvation to Chance: 2 Thessalonians 2:13–17, Part 2
2 mars 2023 |
min
True salvation entails both faith in the truth and sanctification by the Spirit. God choosing us doesn’t render either irrelevant.
Chosen Before Creation for Salvation: 2 Thessalonians 2:13–17, Part 1
28 februari 2023 |
min
The particular, electing love of God from before the foundation of the world is the reason why anyone becomes a Christian.
Why Does God Decree Carnage for the Church? 2 Thessalonians 2:9–12, Part 5
25 februari 2023 |
min
Scripture says that the church will face terrible pain and opposition at the end. Why would God allow his people to suffer?
God Is Not Absent in the Great Apostasy: 2 Thessalonians 2:9–12, Part 4
23 februari 2023 |
min
Satan’s efforts to lead people astray from the truth do not happen apart from God’s plan and design. And yet, many will fall away.
Saving Faith Involves Loving the Truth: 2 Thessalonians 2:9–12, Part 3
21 februari 2023 |
min
The alternative to belief in the gospel is not merely unbelief, but a deep love for unrighteousness which opposes truth.
The Lie All Satanic Power Serves: 2 Thessalonians 2:9–12, Part 2
18 februari 2023 |
min
Satan wants all of us to yawn at truth and salivate for sin. We must persistently resist him and cling to Christ.
Real Signs and Wonders Serving Unreality: 2 Thessalonians 2:9–12, Part 1
16 februari 2023 |
min
Signs and wonders can serve both truth and deception. We should trust what we see in the Bible above what we witness with our eyes.
Lawlessness Doomed by Truth and Beauty: 2 Thessalonians 2:6–8, Part 2
14 februari 2023 |
min
The man of lawlessness has an appointed time and an appointed end which Jesus will bring when he returns.
“Lawlessness” Can’t Come Until Its Appointed Time: 2 Thessalonians 2:6–8, Part 1
11 februari 2023 |
min
God sets the times and seasons. He has appointed a time for the man of lawlessness to appear. He is in full control.
The Man of Lawlessness Sits in the Temple: 2 Thessalonians 2:3–5, Part 4
9 februari 2023 |
min
What is the temple of God in which the man of lawlessness takes his seat? This lab explores two possible answers.
Who Is the Man of Lawlessness? 2 Thessalonians 2:3–5, Part 3
7 februari 2023 |
min
Lawlessness is the rejection of any authority. It exists in every sinful heart, and it will reach full expression in the man of lawlessness.
The Rebellion Must Come Before Christ Returns: 2 Thessalonians 2:3–5, Part 2
4 februari 2023 |
min
Rebellion and lawlessness characterize every age in a fallen world, but they will crescendo before the return of Christ.
Will Christ Return Seven Years After the Rapture? 2 Thessalonians 2:3–5, Part 1
2 februari 2023 |
min
The blessed hope for which we wait is not a secret rapture, but the terrible, awful, and glorious event of Christ’s return.
Don’t Lose Your Head About the Second Coming: 2 Thessalonians 2:1–2, Part 2
31 januari 2023 |
min
To avoid being influenced by false teachings about the second coming, the apostle Paul calls for careful thinking.
A Prophetic Distortion of the Second Coming: 2 Thessalonians 2:1–2, Part 1
28 januari 2023 |
min
What does it mean when the Bible says that Jesus will come “like a thief in the night”?
Christians Made Glorious for the Glory of Christ: 2 Thessalonians 1:12–12, Part 3
26 januari 2023 |
min
The glory of Christ shines through every resolve for good and work of faith because he empowers them according to his grace.
By God’s Grace, Through God’s Power, For God’s Glory: 2 Thessalonians 1:11–12, Part 2
24 januari 2023 |
min
Every good work in the Christian life is rooted in the grace of God, empowered by the person of God, and designed for the glory of God.
Praying the Purposes of God into Reality: 2 Thessalonians 1:11–12, Part 1
21 januari 2023 |
min
God ordains that his people are made worthy of his calling through the faithful prayers of his people.
The Joy of Marveling Glorifies Christ: 2 Thessalonians 1:9–10, Part 3
19 januari 2023 |
min
The goal of all creation and redemption is fulfilled when Christ is glorified in his saints and his saints marvel at his glory.
The Loss of All You Were Made For: 2 Thessalonians 1:9–10, Part 2
17 januari 2023 |
min
You were made to see the glory of God in Christ and to be with him forever. This is what the damned will lose.
The Punishment of Eternal Destruction: 2 Thessalonians 1:9–10, Part 1
14 januari 2023 |
min
God is glorious and God is just. These realities ought to guide our thinking about hell, not our limited ideas of what seems fair.
On Whom Will Vengeance Fall? 2 Thessalonians 1:5–8, Part 6
12 januari 2023 |
min
Those who do not know God are those who suppress the knowledge of him. So do you know him?
Mighty Angels, Flaming Fire, Holy Vengeance: 2 Thessalonians 1:5–8, Part 5
10 januari 2023 |
min
When Jesus returns, he will give relief to those who obey the gospel and wreak vengeance on those who do not.
The Revelation of Jesus from Heaven: 2 Thessalonians 1:5–8, Part 4
7 januari 2023 |
min
When Christ returns with his mighty angels, he will exercise full justice, repaying the afflicters with affliction and the afflicted with relief.
Justice for Tormentors, Relief for Tormented: 2 Thessalonians 1:5–8, Part 3
5 januari 2023 |
min
God’s work to provide relief for his afflicted people is not only a matter of his mercy, but of his justice.
God’s Kingdom: We Will Get in Because We Are In: 2 Thessalonians 1:5–8, Part 2
3 januari 2023 |
min
The mystery of the kingdom of God is that it’s already here and yet it’s still coming.
God’s Righteous Judgment on Christians Now: 2 Thessalonians 1:5–8, Part 1
31 december 2022 |
min
God uses afflictions to transform his church and thus make her fit for the kingdom of heaven.
Let Your Heart Exult Vertically and Horizontally! 2 Thessalonians 1:1–4, Part 7
29 december 2022 |
min
Witnessing growing faith and love should result in exultation to God and exultation to one another about God.
Why Do We Thank God for Our Faith? 2 Thessalonians 1:1–4, Part 6
27 december 2022 |
min
Faith and love (and growth in each) are the gifts of God, and therefore it is fitting that we thank him for both.
Mighty Grace Is More Than Pardon: 2 Thessalonians 1:1–4, Part 5
24 december 2022 |
min
God’s grace does more than secure our pardon; it empowers us to walk in the good works he has prepared for us to do.
Why God as Father and Jesus as Lord? 2 Thessalonians 1:1–4, Part 4
22 december 2022 |
min
To be in God means to have all the immeasurably great benefits of his electing and keeping love.
The Explosive Power of Translating ‘Church’: 2 Thessalonians 1:1–4, Part 3
20 december 2022 |
min
The church is not the building Christians worship in. It is the people whom God has called to himself through the Lord Jesus Christ.
A Church Founded in the Fire: 2 Thessalonians 1:1–4, Part 2
17 december 2022 |
min
We have much of our New Testament because of Paul’s relational, spiritual, and theological vigilance on behalf of the churches he planted.
Did Three People Write This Letter? 2 Thessalonians 1:1–4, Part 1
15 december 2022 |
min
The New Testament does not convey the mere opinions of men but the very words the risen Christ wanted his church to hear.
An Overview of 1 Thessalonians: 1 Thessalonians 1:1–5:28
13 december 2022 |
min
First Thessalonians is a letter that affirms the election of the saints and calls them to live holy lives as they anticipate the longed-for return of Christ.
The Danger of Skipping 1 Thessalonians: 1 Thessalonians 5:23–28, Part 6
10 december 2022 |
min
The apostle Paul made himself clear that the entire church needed to read this letter.
Should We Still Give a Holy Kiss? 1 Thessalonians 5:23–28, Part 5
8 december 2022 |
min
The command to greet one another with a holy kiss is a call to grow in expressions of true, holy, familial affection in the church.
What Can We Pray for the Church? 1 Thessalonians 5:23–28, Part 4
6 december 2022 |
min
The prayers of ordinary Christians are the means God uses to cause his word to run and be exalted in the world.
All the Called Are Kept: 1 Thessalonians 5:23–28, Part 3
3 december 2022 |
min
What is the connection between God’s effectual calling of believers and his constant keeping of believers? His faithfulness.
How Are We Kept Blameless for the Day of Christ? 1 Thessalonians 5:23–28, Part 2
1 december 2022 |
min
By faith we are reconciled to God, and by faith we pursue the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.
Sanctified in Spirit, Soul, and Body: 1 Thessalonians 5:23–28, Part 1
29 november 2022 |
min
Paul sometimes describes humans as body and soul, sometimes as body, soul, and spirit. What does man consist of?
How We Quench the Spirit: 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22, Part 11
26 november 2022 |
min
One way to quench the Spirit is to have a cynical attitude towards spiritual gifts that he gives to the church.
Always Joyful and Thankful — Really? 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22, Part 10
24 november 2022 |
min
While it may seem that sorrow and joy are exclusive, there is a pervasive joy and a pervasive thankfulness that is available in every circumstance.
Always Joyful, Prayerful, Thankful, and Good: 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22, Part 9
22 november 2022 |
min
How can Christians always rejoice, give thanks, pray, and do good towards others? By resting in God’s goodness towards them in Christ.
How to Not Return Evil for Evil: 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22, Part 8
19 november 2022 |
min
The strength to do good towards all, even our enemies, comes from an unshakeable hope in the reward God has promised.
How Can People with Short Fuses Become Patient? 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22, Part 7
17 november 2022 |
min
Patience with others comes through trusting in the providence of God to turn every detour into a pathway to something better.
Are We Drained or Filled by Serving the Weak? 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22, Part 6
15 november 2022 |
min
The call to serving others in the church — admonishing, encouraging, and helping them — is not a call to misery. It’s a call to joy.
God Makes People the Means of Persevering Faith: 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22, Part 5
12 november 2022 |
min
We must never belittle or overlook the fact that God employs human means to strengthen his church.
Tough Love Toward Idle People: 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22, Part 4
10 november 2022 |
min
Christian idleness is unloving to outsiders because it sets a bad example. It is unloving to insiders because it adds to their burdens.
Does Christian Love Esteem Some More Than Others? 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22, Part 3
8 november 2022 |
min
Love looks on those who are doing the work of God with high esteem, and on those who are sinning with a longing to see them honor God.
Elders, Overseers, Bishops, Pastors, Deacons: 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22, Part 2
5 november 2022 |
min
Because God loves the church, he has provided a leadership made up of elders and deacons.
A Vision for Leading and Being Led: 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22, Part 1
3 november 2022 |
min
In a healthy church, the elders labor, exercise authority, and admonish the members, and the members respect and esteem the elders.
A Text for the Day the Doctor Says Cancer: 1 Thessalonians 5:6–11, Part 3
1 november 2022 |
min
First Thessalonians 5:6–11 is a gravestone text. It reminds believers that wrath is not their destiny, but unending life with Christ.
Drunk People Make Bad Soldiers: 1 Thessalonians 5:6–11, Part 2
29 oktober 2022 |
min
Drunk people make bad soldiers and sleepy people make poor watchmen. That is why we need to remain spiritually awake and sober.
Sons of the Day Stay Awake and Sober: 1 Thessalonians 5:6–11, Part 1
27 oktober 2022 |
min
Power for Christian obedience lies in being reminded of our new identity in God. Who we are grounds what we ought to do.
The Sons of Light Will Survive the End: 1 Thessalonians 5:1–5, Part 3
25 oktober 2022 |
min
What does it mean that saints are sons of light? It means that spiritual light shines in our loves, our wills, and our works.
What Is ‘the Day of the Lord’? 1 Thessalonians 5:1–5, Part 2
22 oktober 2022 |
min
What is the day of the Lord? And how does this day relate to the arrival of the kingdom of God?
How Is the Day of the Lord Like a Thief? 1 Thessalonians 5:1–5, Part 1
20 oktober 2022 |
min
What does Paul mean when he says that the last day “will come like a thief in the night”? And how do we remain ready?
Did Paul Expect to See the Second Coming? 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18, Part 4
18 oktober 2022 |
min
Whether we will be alive when Christ returns is not for us to know. Rather, we ought to focus on living faithfully in the present age.
Will There Be a Rapture? 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18, Part 3
15 oktober 2022 |
min
Does the Bible teach that believers still on earth will experience a rapture when Jesus returns?
When Will the Dead Be Raised? 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18, Part 2
13 oktober 2022 |
min
The dead in Christ are not going to miss out on the spectacular return of Jesus to earth. All the saints will participate in this event together.
What to Say to the Grieving: 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18, Part 1
11 oktober 2022 |
min
The promise of the resurrection doesn’t minimize grief, but it does provide a ballast so Christians can grieve with hope.
Should Christians Be Quiet Toward Outsiders? 1 Thessalonians 4:9–12, Part 2
8 oktober 2022 |
min
What does it mean to “live quietly?” What does a life characterized by this kind of quietness sound like?
Was Paul’s Letter Needed or Not? 1 Thessalonians 4:9–12, Part 1
6 oktober 2022 |
min
When Christians love one another, they show that they are not just taught, but God-taught. Our love shows God is on the move.
Sexual Immorality Is Against God and Man: 1 Thessalonians 4:3–8, Part 5
4 oktober 2022 |
min
Setting yourself against God’s command for sexual purity means you’re resisting his active, present working in your life.
The Sovereign Call to Sexual Purity: 1 Thessalonians 4:3–8, Part 4
1 oktober 2022 |
min
The command to pursue sexual purity is empowered by the promise that God sanctifies everyone he saves.
Should Sexual Purity Be Motivated by God’s Vengeance? 1 Thessalonians 4:3–8, Part 3
29 september 2022 |
min
God gives husbands and wives the promise of divine vengeance as a motive to maintain holiness and honor in marriage.
Five Reasons for Marital Faithfulness: 1 Thessalonians 4:3–8, Part 2
27 september 2022 |
min
Treating your wife in holiness and honor demonstrates that you rightly value God, your wife, and your brother.
Take Your Wife in Holiness — Not a Brother’s: 1 Thessalonians 4:3–8, Part 1
24 september 2022 |
min
Sexual purity is more a matter of knowing God than of following a prescribed list of dos and don’ts.
Apostle, Comforter, and Champion: 1 Thessalonians 4:1–2, Part 2
22 september 2022 |
min
We all need comforters who commend us for our faithfulness and champions who challenge us to greater heights.
Can Christians Please God by Our Behavior? 1 Thessalonians 4:1–2, Part 1
20 september 2022 |
min
Faith that rests in the righteous work of Christ produces a life of good fruit which pleases God.
Made Holy to Meet the Holy Ones: 1 Thessalonians 3:11–13, Part 5
17 september 2022 |
min
How often do you dream about the return of Jesus? Does the hope of that day fuel your desire to be holy?
How Can We Be Found Blameless at the End? 1 Thessalonians 3:11–13, Part 4
15 september 2022 |
min
Does the apostle Paul expect believers to be sinless in this life? What does it mean to be found blameless at the day of Christ?
Love Establishes Us in Holiness: 1 Thessalonians 3:11–13, Part 3
13 september 2022 |
min
If God and his infinite worth are everything to you, then you are set free from the hindrances to love.
We Act God’s Miracle of Love: 1 Thessalonians 3:11–13, Part 2
10 september 2022 |
min
Our ability to love others flows from God working the miracle of love in us.
How Do We Break Through Satan’s Obstacles? 1 Thessalonians 3:11–13, Part 1
8 september 2022 |
min
Paul doesn’t need a road map to get to Thessalonica, but he does need God to shatter the obstacles raised by Satan.
Prayer Is Not One and Done: 1 Thessalonians 3:6–10, Part 3
6 september 2022 |
min
Christians who keep praying, even when they don’t see immediate changes, display a deep trust in their heavenly Father.
Inexpressible Joy Is the Essence of Paul’s Life: 1 Thessalonians 3:6–10, Part 2
3 september 2022 |
min
What things make you happy? What about witnessing the enduring faith of a brother or sister in the midst of hardship?
We Live If You Stand in Faith: 1 Thessalonians 3:6–10, Part 1
1 september 2022 |
min
The apostle Paul gladly said that the faith of others was a source of life for him. Can you say the same?
Can the Gospel Come in Vain to the Elect? 1 Thessalonians 3:1–5, Part 5
30 augusti 2022 |
min
Can the elect fall away? Can the gospel come to them in vain?
Does God or Satan Send Affliction? 1 Thessalonians 3:1–5, Part 4
27 augusti 2022 |
min
If the cross was a random act of evil, instead of a purposeful act of God, then there is no good news.
God Destined Your Afflictions — Don’t Be Shaken! 1 Thessalonians 3:1–5, Part 3
25 augusti 2022 |
min
God destines afflictions for believers, not to shake our faith, but to bolster it. He often displays his love best when our conditions get worse.
How to Become a Coworker of God: 1 Thessalonians 3:1–5, Part 2
23 augusti 2022 |
min
The gospel doesn’t merely save us; it provides hope day by day to endure the afflictions we face.
The Messy Way to Know God’s Will: 1 Thessalonians 3:1–5, Part 1
20 augusti 2022 |
min
God has willed to use us in specific ways. And we should expect and embrace messiness as we seek to discern what those ways are.
Is Boasting Bad or Good? 1 Thessalonians 2:17–20, Part 3
18 augusti 2022 |
min
Is boasting always bad? If we answer yes, we miss opportunities to glorify the power of Christ on display in the lives of others.
Who Is Paul’s Joy — Christ or the Church? 1 Thessalonians 2:17–20, Part 2
16 augusti 2022 |
min
Christians not only love Christ; they love what Christ loves. And since Christ loves his church, so do we.
Paul’s Extraordinary Affection for Believers: 1 Thessalonians 2:17–20, Part 1
13 augusti 2022 |
min
Can Christians love other Christians the way that Christ commands without liking them?
Has Wrath Come Upon Israel Forever? 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16, Part 10
11 augusti 2022 |
min
The Jews rejected their Messiah and have been, for a time, rejected. How long will such wrath last?
How Does Israel ‘Fill Up Their Sins’? 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16, Part 9
9 augusti 2022 |
min
Scripture teaches that the sins of some needed to be “filled up” before God judged them. What does that mean?
God Hates When the Gospel Is Hindered: 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16, Part 8
6 augusti 2022 |
min
If the gospel is the way that souls are saved, it’s hateful to in any way hinder the preaching of the gospel.
Who Killed Jesus? 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16, Part 7
4 augusti 2022 |
min
For anyone who loves to wrestle with profound mysteries: Who killed Jesus? The Romans, the Jews, or God?
Was the Apostle Paul Anti-Semitic? 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16, Part 6
2 augusti 2022 |
min
The apostle Paul once said of the Jews, “Wrath has come upon them at last!” Did this make him anti-Semitic?
How Does the Word Produce New Preferences? 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16, Part 5
30 juli 2022 |
min
Are you growing in holiness and love and courage? Then rejoice, the word of God is at work within you.
How the Word of God Brings About Faith: 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16, Part 4
28 juli 2022 |
min
To receive the gospel is not just to be ready to go to heaven by it, but to be ready to suffer for it.
What Is Saving Faith? 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16, Part 3
26 juli 2022 |
min
Saving faith is not merely assenting to true facts about Christ; it’s a glad reception of all he is for us.
How the Word of Man Becomes the Word of God: 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16, Part 2
23 juli 2022 |
min
Do you believe the Bible is the word of God and not the word of man? How can you tell if you do or not?
Tradition Is Not a Dirty Word: 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16, Part 1
21 juli 2022 |
min
The apostle Paul did not think “tradition” was a dirty word. He wanted churches to receive and pass along a certain type of tradition.
The Greatest Crescendo of Life and History: 1 Thessalonians 2:9–12, Part 5
19 juli 2022 |
min
The greatest crescendo we could possibly experience in life is to be called by God into his kingdom and enjoy his beauty forever.
The Ongoing Miracle of God’s Calling: 1 Thessalonians 2:9–12, Part 4
16 juli 2022 |
min
What does it mean to be called by God? And how should this reality impact my everyday life?
The Fatherly Way of Paul’s Exhortation: 1 Thessalonians 2:9–12, Part 3
14 juli 2022 |
min
Christian obedience means walking in proper response to the beauty and worth of God.
Whether Present or Absent, the Same Man: 1 Thessalonians 2:9–12, Part 2
12 juli 2022 |
min
When fellow Christians watch your life, what do they see? Do they see growing holiness, righteousness, and love for Jesus?
Paul Used His Life to Lift Burdens: 1 Thessalonians 2:9–12, Part 1
9 juli 2022 |
min
The apostle Paul’s finances had everything to do with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Do yours?
The Miracle of Mutual Soul-Sharing: 1 Thessalonians 2:5–8, Part 7
7 juli 2022 |
min
The apostle Paul wanted to share more than the gospel with people; he longed to share his own soul with them.
Ministry Like a Nursing Mother: 1 Thessalonians 2:5–8, Part 6
5 juli 2022 |
min
The apostle Paul could be gentle like a nursing mother and firm like an exhorting father. Does our ministry share that balance?
Loving Praise Versus Lifting Burdens: 1 Thessalonians 2:5–8, Part 5
2 juli 2022 |
min
The fear of man can become a subtle and relentless craving for praise. How much do you do to be seen by others?
Don’t Make Ministry a Pretext for Greed: 1 Thessalonians 2:5–8, Part 4
30 juni 2022 |
min
Ministers should not only keep their lives free from the love of money, but from the appearance that they love money.
Are Silvanus and Timothy Apostles? 1 Thessalonians 2:5–8, Part 3
28 juni 2022 |
min
Scripture uses the word “apostle” in two ways, a special way and a common one. Do you know what they are?
A Christ-Exalting Renunciation of Power: 1 Thessalonians 2:5–8, Part 2
25 juni 2022 |
min
An apostle has more authority than an earthly king, so why did Paul make it a point to lay down his power so often?
Sex, Money, Praise, Power — No! 1 Thessalonians 2:5–8, Part 1
23 juni 2022 |
min
Pastors, we must not minister for popularity, for greed, for sex, for power. Shepherd from a love for people, for God, and for his glory.
Gospel Authenticity, Proven and Pure: 1 Thessalonians 2:1–4, Part 2
21 juni 2022 |
min
How do you know if your boldness in your faith is from yourself or from God?
Boldness in Conflict Comes from God: 1 Thessalonians 2:1–4, Part 1
18 juni 2022 |
min
Is the Spirit ever more evident than when a man keeps sharing the gospel despite all it has cost him?
Jesus Delivers Us from the Wrath to Come: 1 Thessalonians 1:7–10, Part 4
16 juni 2022 |
min
No suffering is like eternal suffering under the righteous wrath of Christ. Flee to him for refuge from that coming disaster.
Christian Life as Waiting and Serving: 1 Thessalonians 1:7–10, Part 3
14 juni 2022 |
min
Jesus does not leave us to wait in passivity and inactivity. As he leaves, he says, “Engage in my business until I come.”
Dead Idols Don’t Give Living Joy: 1 Thessalonians 1:7–10, Part 2
11 juni 2022 |
min
False gods clamor for our embrace and affection, but only our God can deliver what he promises: life and joy everlasting.
Don’t Underestimate the Power of Human Example: 1 Thessalonians 1:7–10, Part 1
9 juni 2022 |
min
Each of us has an opportunity to become an example for someone in a way that strengthens them to live for Christ.
What Kind of Conduct Validates the Gospel? 1 Thessalonians 1:2–7, Part 5
7 juni 2022 |
min
Can preachers today say to their people, “You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake”?
Joy in Affliction Validates Election: 1 Thessalonians 1:2–7, Part 4
4 juni 2022 |
min
A great way to know that you are a genuine Christian: you receive the word of God with joy, even when afflictions and setbacks come.
Invincible Joy Confirms Our Election: 1 Thessalonians 1:2–7, Part 3
2 juni 2022 |
min
Joy in Christ that withers when tribulation comes had no real root to begin with. Real joy perseveres even through real trials.
Do Not Diminish God’s Love for You: 1 Thessalonians 1:2–7, Part 2
31 maj 2022 |
min
Can we diminish God’s love for us? If so, it’s critical to know how we do.
Hope Will Put You to Work: 1 Thessalonians 1:2–7, Part 1
28 maj 2022 |
min
The apostle Paul often gives thanks to God for what other Christians do. Why does he do that?
What Does It Mean to Be in God? 1 Thessalonians 1:1, Part 2
26 maj 2022 |
min
What does it mean to be in God or in Christ? It means at least three great things.
The Setting of 1 Thessalonians: 1 Thessalonians 1:1, Part 1
24 maj 2022 |
min
Join Pastor John for this first episode in his new teaching series through the book of 1 Thessalonians.
How Would You Summarize Ephesians? Ephesians 1–6
21 maj 2022 |
min
How would you go about summarizing the whole book of Ephesians? Join Pastor John as he attempts to do just that.
Grace from Start to Finish: Ephesians 6:23–24, Part 2
19 maj 2022 |
min
When you love the Lord Jesus, you are showing that your life got its start in grace, and that you will experience more grace forever and ever.
A Closing Cry for Peace and Love: Ephesians 6:23–24, Part 1
17 maj 2022 |
min
At the close of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he calls on God to give to the church two things: the peace and love which come from faith.
What Do the Lives of Teachers Tell Us? Ephesians 6:21–22
14 maj 2022 |
min
Pastors, your people need to see your lives so that they might pray for you, imitate you, and be encouraged by you.
The Camaraderie of Spiritual Conflict: Ephesians 6:16–20
12 maj 2022 |
min
The armor of God is not just meant for us in our individual walk. It is meant to help us fight the good fight together.
The Helmet, the Sword, and the Seriousness of the War: Ephesians 6:14–17, Part 8
10 maj 2022 |
min
Those who are eternally secure still need a helmet, a sword, and a shield. They still need to put on armor and fight the war.
How the Shield of Faith Blocks Satanic Arrows: Ephesians 6:14–17, Part 7
7 maj 2022 |
min
If you are a Christian, you have a supernatural enemy who every day aims his arrows at you. Do you know how to use your shield?
What Kind of Spiritual Armor Are Shoes? Ephesians 6:14–17, Part 6
5 maj 2022 |
min
The apostle Paul commands us to wear the readiness of the gospel of peace on our feet. What is the readiness of the gospel and why our feet?
Run the Devil Out with Righteousness: Ephesians 6:14–17, Part 5
3 maj 2022 |
min
The apostle Paul calls us to put on the breastplate of righteousness. What exactly is that and how do we put it on?
O Christians! Be People of Truth: Ephesians 6:14–17, Part 4
30 april 2022 |
min
Christians are people of the truth. We speak the truth, believe the truth, love the truth.
New Identity and Armor Against the Devil: Ephesians 6:14–17, Part 3
28 april 2022 |
min
You do not put on the armor of God with your hands. You put it on with your mind and your heart and your reason and your will.
How Is the Armor of God Ordered? Ephesians 6:14–17, Part 2
26 april 2022 |
min
The armor of God must be worn in order for us to withstand the evil one. Do you know what the armor is?
Is Our Armor What God Wore? Ephesians 6:14–17, Part 1
23 april 2022 |
min
The armor in Ephesians 6 is not brand-new armor. It is ancient armor. It is tested armor. It is God’s armor.
The Aim: Stand in His Power for His Glory: Ephesians 6:10–13, Part 7
21 april 2022 |
min
To withstand a supernatural enemy, we must dress in supernatural armor — and this is just what Christ offers us.
Set Free from Cosmic Powers of Darkness: Ephesians 6:10–13, Part 6
19 april 2022 |
min
How do we get free from the dark and demonic rule over this world? We repent of our sins and entrust ourselves wholly to the God who can free us.
How to Defeat the Defeated Forces of Evil: Ephesians 6:10–13, Part 5
16 april 2022 |
min
The demonic opposition that we face is a decisively defeated foe that has been disarmed of all his accusations against us.
Don’t We Still Wrestle with Flesh and Blood? Ephesians 6:10–13, Part 4
14 april 2022 |
min
Our battles in life are not merely against human opposition. Behind any person is a greater enemy: the prince of the power of the air.
Christian Life as Supernatural Combat: Ephesians 6:10–13, Part 3
12 april 2022 |
min
The word of God is clear: we are at war, however peaceful our lives may otherwise feel. Are you prepared for battle?
How Are We Empowered with God’s Power? Ephesians 6:10–13, Part 2
9 april 2022 |
min
How can we draw strength for everyday life from God’s almighty power?
From Supernatural Enemies to Triumphant Standing: Ephesians 6:10–13, Part 1
7 april 2022 |
min
Do you live with armor on? If you’re a Christian, you need to wear God’s armor, because you do not wrestle with mere flesh and blood.
What Is Slavery Like Without Threatening? Ephesians 6:5–9, Part 6
5 april 2022 |
min
What does it mean that masters are to stop their threatening? And how did that revolutionize the slave-master relationship?
Should We Be Motivated by Degrees of Reward? Ephesians 6:5–9, Part 5
2 april 2022 |
min
How could heaven be perfect and yet some people get more (or less) rewards? How could there be degrees in perfection?
Every Christian Serving with the Whole Soul: Ephesians 6:5–9, Part 4
31 mars 2022 |
min
True Christian love and service spring from within. People-pleasers may sometimes serve, but not from the heart.
Does the New Testament Legitimize Slavery? Ephesians 6:5–9, Part 3
29 mars 2022 |
min
Does the Bible condone slavery?
Can Slaves of Christ Have Another Master? Ephesians 6:5–9, Part 2
26 mars 2022 |
min
The apostle’s words to slaves commanding them to obey their earthly masters apply to all of us — but how?
Let All Earthly Obedience Be Obedience to Christ: Ephesians 6:5–9, Part 1
24 mars 2022 |
min
What can we learn about the lordship of Jesus Christ when we consider the relationship between slaves and masters in the early church?
Fathers, Aim at Trusting, Obedient, Happy Children: Ephesians 6:1–4, Part 2
22 mars 2022 |
min
Fathers, have compassion on your children. Do not provoke them to anger. Be firm in discipline and instruction, but don’t break them.
Do Obedient Children Always Live Long? Ephesians 6:1–4, Part 1
19 mars 2022 |
min
If a child professes faith in Christ and honors his mother and father, yet dies at a young age, has the promise of God failed?
Should Wives Fear Their Husbands? Ephesians 5:31–33, Part 3
17 mars 2022 |
min
What does it mean when Paul writes, “Let the wife see that she fears her husband”?
How Great Is the Mystery of Marriage? Ephesians 5:31–33, Part 2
15 mars 2022 |
min
In a culture that downplays and undermines marriage, we need to know why marriage is worth protecting and cultivating.
What Does It Mean to Become One Flesh? Ephesians 5:31–33, Part 1
12 mars 2022 |
min
What does it mean that a husband and wife are “one flesh”? Is it only a reference to sexual intimacy?
What Does a Husband’s Headship Mean? Ephesians 5:25–31, Part 8
10 mars 2022 |
min
What does it mean for a husband to be a “head” of a household? At least eight things.
Is Christ Selfish to Die for His Own Joy? Ephesians 5:25–31, Part 7
8 mars 2022 |
min
Does it undermine love to have self-interest as a main motivation in caring for others?
First the Church, Then Marriage Follows: Ephesians 5:25–31, Part 6
5 mars 2022 |
min
The model for the first marriage was modeled after Jesus and his bride; not vice versa. This is the meaning of marriage.
The Purpose of Election Is a Church Beautified: Ephesians 5:25–31, Part 5
3 mars 2022 |
min
What did it mean for Christ to wash the church in water with the word?
How Paul Motivates Impossible Love in Marriage: Ephesians 5:25–31, Part 4
1 mars 2022 |
min
The best way for a man to pursue more joy for himself in his marriage is to make it his business to give her all he can of Christ.
What Is Peculiar About Married Love? Ephesians 5:25–31, Part 3
26 februari 2022 |
min
What makes marriage unique among all human relationships? God has made a husband and wife one flesh.
How Did the Divine Husband Love His Wife? Ephesians 5:25–31, Part 2
24 februari 2022 |
min
How did Jesus, the divine Husband, love his wife? He gave himself for her.
Christ Loved Himself in Loving the Church: Ephesians 5:25–31, Part 1
22 februari 2022 |
min
Husbands, don’t settle for imitating the best human husband you can find. Love your wife as the Lord Jesus loved his bride, the church.
Finite, Sinful Headship in Marriage: Ephesians 5:22–24, Part 7
19 februari 2022 |
min
Jesus is the perfect leader, the perfect supplier, the perfect protector. How could an imperfect husband possibly imitate him?
How Is Christ Head of the Church? Ephesians 5:22–24, Part 6
17 februari 2022 |
min
Why is the husband called the “head” of the wife? What does the word mean biblically? 
Why Aren’t Pre-Fall Adam and Eve the Model for Marriage? Ephesians 5:22–24, Part 5
15 februari 2022 |
min
If Adam and Eve were married and without sin before the fall, why are they not our primary model for Christian marriage today?
Submissively Not Following a Husband: Ephesians 5:22–24, Part 4
12 februari 2022 |
min
What does it mean that the wife is called to submit to her husband “in everything”?
Wives, Submit ‘As to the Lord’: Ephesians 5:22–24, Part 3
10 februari 2022 |
min
What does it mean for a Christian wife to submit to her husband “as to the Lord”?
Factors Feeding a Wife’s Submission: Ephesians 5:22–24, Part 2
8 februari 2022 |
min
Wives take their cues from the church as she submits to the Lord. Husbands take their cues from Christ as he loves the church.
The Most Glorious Relationship Among Humans: Ephesians 5:22–24, Part 1
5 februari 2022 |
min
What makes marriage the most glorious relationship on earth? Because it is uniquely modeled on the relationship between Christ and his church.
The Sweet Experience of Fearing Christ: Ephesians 5:15–21, Part 9
3 februari 2022 |
min
Our fear of Christ is not only a fear. We do fear him, but we also trust him and love him and delight in him.
Submit to One Another, Full of the Spirit: Ephesians 5:15–21, Part 8
1 februari 2022 |
min
How do we count others better than ourselves, even when we might be more gifted than they are?
Give Thanks for Everything — Really? Ephesians 5:15–21, Part 7
29 januari 2022 |
min
God does not command us to give thanks for some things, or even most things, but for all things. How could we do that?
How to Be Filled with the Holy Spirit: Ephesians 5:15–21, Part 6
27 januari 2022 |
min
How do we obey the passive command to be filled with the Holy Spirit?
Sing! Sing! Sing! — To Each Other and the Lord: Ephesians 5:15–21, Part 5
25 januari 2022 |
min
When we gather together, we not only sing to God. We sing to one another in order to build one another up.
The Root Problem with Drunkenness: Ephesians 5:15–21, Part 4
22 januari 2022 |
min
Drunkenness is anti-living. It wastes time. It wastes wisdom. It wastes our ability to honor the Lord.
Don’t Let Evil Days Make You Stupid: Ephesians 5:15–21, Part 3
20 januari 2022 |
min
We live in evil days. Therefore, walk wisely, purchase time, and seek to understand the will of God.
Be Shrewd and Buy Up Time: Ephesians 5:15–21, Part 2
18 januari 2022 |
min
Do you just let life happen to you, or do you pray, do you plan, do you act, do you consider how you spend your time?
How Does Gratitude Serve the Will of God? Ephesians 5:15–21, Part 1
15 januari 2022 |
min
Are you a thankful person? When we are truly filled by the Spirit, we increasingly give thanks for everything.
How to Speak to the Spiritually Dead: Ephesians 5:8–14, Part 8
13 januari 2022 |
min
God uses our voice to do the impossible. He sends us to open the eyes of the spiritually dead through our words.
What Kind of Speech Is Shameful? Ephesians 5:8–14, Part 7
11 januari 2022 |
min
How do you confront and expose works of darkness without speaking in ways that dishonor Christ?
How Do We Expose Works of Darkness? Ephesians 5:8–14, Part 6
8 januari 2022 |
min
To expose unfruitful works of darkness means the uncomfortable work of confronting them, rebuking them, and showing them to be wrong.
Can Imperfect Christians Please the Lord? Ephesians 5:8–14, Part 5
6 januari 2022 |
min
Is it true that we are so sinful that nothing we can do could please the Lord?
The All-Nourishing Fruit of Light: Ephesians 5:8–14, Part 4
4 januari 2022 |
min
The lifestyle of those who walk in light is full of fruit and goodness. The lifestyle of those who walk in darkness is barren and full of evil.
How Being Becomes Doing: Ephesians 5:8–14, Part 3
1 januari 2022 |
min
All the effort of holiness flows from the new birth, the new heart. If you reverse the order, you don’t have Christianity; you have legalism.
What Makes Christianity Different as a Religion? Ephesians 5:8–14, Part 2
30 december 2021 |
min
Once we were lost in darkness as children of darkness. But now, we are light in the Lord. Therefore, walk as children of light.
A New Argument for How to Live: Ephesians 5:8–14, Part 1
28 december 2021 |
min
How do you think of yourself? If you are in Christ, do you consider that he already calls you “light” in the Lord?
How to Escape the Coming Wrath of God: Ephesians 5:3–7, Part 6
25 december 2021 |
min
No one is justified because they stayed sexually pure. But no one inherits the kingdom of God while living a sexually impure life.
How Does Thankfulness Clean Up the Mouth? Ephesians 5:3–7, Part 5
23 december 2021 |
min
Foolish talk, crude joking, and shameful speech have no place to grow when our communities are filled with explicit thankfulness to God.
How Is Something Not Proper for Saints? Ephesians 5:3–7, Part 4
21 december 2021 |
min
The apostle Paul rarely, if ever, calls believers “Christians,” but he often calls us “saints.” What does the name mean?
Sexual Immorality Is Not Even to Be Named: Ephesians 5:3–7, Part 3
18 december 2021 |
min
What does it mean that sexual immorality should not even be named among Christians?
How Is Covetousness the Root of Sexual Idolatry? Ephesians 5:3–7, Part 2
16 december 2021 |
min
If Christ is not the King of your heart on earth, he will not be the King that satisfies your heart for all eternity.
Should Saints Be Warned About Wrath? Ephesians 5:3–7, Part 1
14 december 2021 |
min
Those marked by sexual immorality, impurity, and covetousness will not inherit the kingdom of God. Are such warnings aimed at Christians?
Was God Pleased with the One He Cursed? Ephesians 5:1–2, Part 3
11 december 2021 |
min
If the Father crushed the Son on our behalf, could he also be pleased with his Son while he died?
Christian Love Is Sacrificial Love: Ephesians 5:1–2, Part 2
9 december 2021 |
min
Loving others as Christ loved us is not a safe or convenient enterprise. It is a sacrificial love that bleeds.
The Effects of Being Greatly Loved by God: Ephesians 5:1–2, Part 1
7 december 2021 |
min
The love of God is too great to leave us as we were. Anyone who has experienced the love of God has been transformed by the love of God.
Can You Forgive Those Who Do Not Repent? Ephesians 4:30–32, Part 5
4 december 2021 |
min
Can you forgive someone who doesn’t repent of doing you any wrong? Can there be real forgiveness?
How Do the Easily Angered Become Tender? Ephesians 4:30–32, Part 4
2 december 2021 |
min
If you are a Christian, you are a new person. You are not what you were. You are fundamentally, profoundly, deeply new.
The Fruit and Root of Bitterness: Ephesians 4:30–32, Part 3
30 november 2021 |
min
Whenever we get hurt, we become vulnerable to bitterness. But God calls us to be kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving.
How Does the Spirit Seal Us for Eternity? Ephesians 4:30–32, Part 2
27 november 2021 |
min
God seals us with his Holy Spirit to ensure we make it home. And this sealing by the Spirit leads to a life of love on earth.
Is God Above Being Grieved? Ephesians 4:30–32, Part 1
25 november 2021 |
min
What does it mean that God can be grieved? Isn’t he unable to feel human feelings?
Giving Grace with Our Mouths: Ephesians 4:25–29, Part 8
23 november 2021 |
min
Keep your eyes on fellow Christians. Are they worn out, discouraged, downcast? Ask God for an upbuilding word.
What Is the Christian Alternative to Stealing? Ephesians 4:25–29, Part 7
20 november 2021 |
min
What does stealing reveal about our hearts? It shows a lack of love for people and a lack of contentment in the Lord.
How Not to Go to Bed Angry: Ephesians 4:25–29, Part 6
18 november 2021 |
min
Falling asleep with anger is an invitation to the devil to sow bitterness into your life and relationships.
How Does Anger Give Place to the Devil? Ephesians 4:25–29, Part 5
16 november 2021 |
min
Going to bed angry is dangerous. It invites bitterness into your life, but more than that, it invites the devil.
Does ‘Be Angry!’ Mean, ‘Make Sure You’re Angry’? Ephesians 4:25–29, Part 4
13 november 2021 |
min
When Paul says, “Be angry, and do not sin,” does that mean we should be angry?
Don’t Lie to Christians, Because They Are You: Ephesians 4:25–29, Part 3
11 november 2021 |
min
He who loves the church loves himself because he’s a part of the church. Take care how you love your fellow members in Christ.
Christian, Be Passionately Speaking Truth: Ephesians 4:25–29, Part 2
9 november 2021 |
min
If you don’t love the truth, you don’t love the gospel. If you love the gospel, you will love being a truthful person.
Take Off the Old Uniform, Put On the New: Ephesians 4:25–29, Part 1
6 november 2021 |
min
Christ does not simply tell us to put off our old lives. He tells us to put on his character.
Renewed in the Spirit of Our Mind: Ephesians 4:17–24, Part 9
4 november 2021 |
min
Our minds must have more than new ideas to be made new. It must have a new inclination, disposition, and ruling principle.
Deceit Shaped the Old Self: Ephesians 4:17–24, Part 8
2 november 2021 |
min
Are you still living according to your old sinful life? Put to death old desires and be transformed by truth in Christ.
How Does Truth Free Us from Sin? Ephesians 4:17–24, Part 7
30 oktober 2021 |
min
What can save us from our suicidal desires for sin? The truth as found in Christ.
Why New Clothes in Christ? Ephesians 4:17–24, Part 6
28 oktober 2021 |
min
The Christian is not just one inwardly. We put on a new man, a new uniform, a new identity that others can see.
How Do We ‘Learn Christ’? Ephesians 4:17–24, Part 5
26 oktober 2021 |
min
What does it mean to learn Christ? And if you were studying Ephesians for yourself, how would you answer a question like that from the Bible?
What Happens to Desires Without God? Ephesians 4:17–24, Part 4
23 oktober 2021 |
min
The heart that loses God as its greatest desire becomes a cauldron of desires for sensuality.
The Deepest Problem of Humanity: Ephesians 4:17–24, Part 3
21 oktober 2021 |
min
Underneath every rejection of Christianity is a hardness of heart and rebellion of life.
What Is the Futility of the Human Mind? Ephesians 4:17–24, Part 2
19 oktober 2021 |
min
The reason God gave us reason was so that we might know God. When we refuse knowledge of him, we are left with futility.
Christianity Is a Life to Be Lived: Ephesians 4:17–24, Part 1
16 oktober 2021 |
min
Christianity is not just a worldview to be believed in, but it is a way to live by.
Unity in Truth by Love (Overview): Ephesians 4:1–16
14 oktober 2021 |
min
The church is the corporate representation of Christ to the world. This privilege is great, and the task of maturity is serious.
Who Lives in the Church? Ephesians 4:15–16, Part 3
12 oktober 2021 |
min
In the church, the redeemed build one another up in love into the dwelling place of God.
The Body Makes the Body Grow: Ephesians 4:15–16, Part 2
9 oktober 2021 |
min
Every part of the Church needs to function as God made us to function in order for the church to grow into maturity.
All Christians Speak Truth to Grow the Body: Ephesians 4:15–16, Part 1
7 oktober 2021 |
min
Pastors and teachers are given to the church so that we might stop being children and grow up in Christ, so are you growing?
How Not to Be Childlike: Ephesians 4:11–14, Part 10
5 oktober 2021 |
min
Immaturity in the Christian life is often exposed by us being easily swayed by new and false teaching.
How Is the Church a Mature Man? Ephesians 4:11–14, Part 9
2 oktober 2021 |
min
In order for the church to stand mature before God, each child of God needs to grow up into Christian maturity.
Why Do We Call Jesus the Son of God? Ephesians 4:11–14, Part 8
30 september 2021 |
min
We often say that Jesus is the “Son of God,” but what exactly does that name mean?
Will We Find Unity Before Christ Comes? Ephesians 4:11–14, Part 7
28 september 2021 |
min
Right now, our faith is imperfect, our churches are imperfect, our love is imperfect. When Christ comes, the imperfect will be made perfect.
Unity in Truth Understood and Embraced: Ephesians 4:11–14, Part 6
25 september 2021 |
min
When we only unify over an intellectual assent to truth, we miss out on the true beauty and benefit of biblical unity.
How Do Saints Build the Body? Ephesians 4:11–14, Part 5
23 september 2021 |
min
When the pastors equip the saints and the saints do the work of ministry, the body of Christ builds itself up into maturity.
Who Are the Ministers in the Church? Ephesians 4:11–14, Part 4
21 september 2021 |
min
Pastors have the challenging task of teaching and inspiring their people to maturity in the faith for the health of the church.
Does Christ Put Pastors in Specific Churches? Ephesians 4:11–14, Part 3
18 september 2021 |
min
Is there a call to the ministry? Does God still appoint pastors to specific local churches?
Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, and Teachers: Ephesians 4:11–14, Part 2
16 september 2021 |
min
Apostles and prophets are different from evangelists, shepherds, and teachers. Do you know how?
Individualism and Solidarity in the Church: Ephesians 4:11–14, Part 1
14 september 2021 |
min
Who we each are in Christ, with our specific giftings, matters. And who we are as members of the wider church also matters. One does not cancel the other.
How Does Christ Fill All Things? Ephesians 4:7–10, Part 4
11 september 2021 |
min
Christ fills all things by dying and giving grace and gifts to his church. He is the head, and we are the body. As he reigns, so will we.
Did Jesus Descend into Hell? Ephesians 4:7–10, Part 3
9 september 2021 |
min
The same Jesus that came to earth, lived, taught, died, and rose, is the same Jesus interceding for us now in heaven.
Was the Old Testament in Light of the New? Ephesians 4:7–10, Part 2
7 september 2021 |
min
When the Old Testament was written, was it written in light of what would be said in the New Testament?
How Will Diversity Not Destroy Oneness? Ephesians 4:7–10, Part 1
4 september 2021 |
min
God gives different gifts in different measures to different people, and he gives them to unite us, not divide us.
We Have a Father over All: Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 13
2 september 2021 |
min
We long to belong. We long to be secure. We long for purpose. We long for riches. And all of these are satisfied in God as our Father.
Hope Created the Spirit-Filled Body: Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 12
31 augusti 2021 |
min
What do you do when you are reading a tough text and not getting much help from commentaries? John Piper models his approach from Ephesians 4:1–6.
Keep the Unity That Cost Everything: Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 11
28 augusti 2021 |
min
We must be eager to keep the unity that Christ purchased with his own blood.
Enduring One Another in Love: Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 10
24 augusti 2021 |
min
Do you have a quick temper? Do you get angry and find it hard to forgive? If Christ has saved you, he calls you to a long-suffering love.
What Is Biblical Meekness? Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 9
21 augusti 2021 |
min
If biblical meekness does not just mean talking quietly or being soft, what does it mean?
How to Pursue All Lowliness: Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 8
17 augusti 2021 |
min
Lowliness isn’t something that we should want just enough of to get by. We should desire “all humility” to glorify Christ.
Why Is Lowliness Fitting for Our Calling? Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 7
14 augusti 2021 |
min
Lowliness is fitting for the Christian because our redemption cost Christ his life. This should level any and every thought of boasting.
The Heart Traits Behind a Worthy Walk: Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 6
10 augusti 2021 |
min
A heart worthy of our calling is lowly, meek, long-suffering, and willing to endure others in love — in other words, it is a heart like Christ’s.
Does God Help Us Walk in a Worthy Way? Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 5
7 augusti 2021 |
min
When we are commanded to walk worthily, are we ultimately responsible or does God do this in us?
What Is Worthy Walking? Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 4
3 augusti 2021 |
min
What does it mean to walk worthily of our calling? Does it mean we finally become deserving of our salvation?
What Is Our Infinitely Valuable Calling? Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 3
31 juli 2021 |
min
The hope of the Christian calling is precious beyond measure. We walk toward a glory we can’t rightly imagine.
God Calls the Spiritually Dead to Life: Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 2
27 juli 2021 |
min
God calls us out of the tomb, out of death, out of condemnation, and out of slavery to sin. We are called into life and joy and freedom in Christ.
Deep Doctrine Makes Houses Happy: Ephesians 4:1–6, Part 1
24 juli 2021 |
min
The radical life change that Paul calls for in Ephesians is built upon radical truths about God.
To the Praise of the Glory of Grace: Overview of Ephesians 1–3
20 juli 2021 |
min
Join John Piper as he walks through the first three chapters of Ephesians, showing how the main points relate, all in under twelve minutes.
How Does It All End? Ephesians 3:20–21
17 juli 2021 |
min
Do you have moments when you pause from your work, your studies, your responsibilities, your conversations to praise God? Oh, for hearts of worship.
Filled with All the Fullness of God? Ephesians 3:14–19, Part 8
13 juli 2021 |
min
We need more than descriptions of God’s love for us. We need the Spirit to help us know and feel God’s love for us.
The Widest, Longest, Highest, Deepest Love: Ephesians 3:14–19, Part 7
10 juli 2021 |
min
Go wide with Christ, go long with Christ, go high with Christ, go deep with Christ. Ask God to immerse you in the love of Christ.
Why Pray for Christ to Dwell in Believers? Ephesians 3:14–19, Part 6
6 juli 2021 |
min
If every Christian already has the Spirit of God, why does Paul pray that the Spirit would dwell in believers’ hearts through faith?
How Are We Strengthened Through the Spirit? Ephesians 3:14–19, Part 5
3 juli 2021 |
min
The strength we need for the Christian life is not a strength we possess naturally. We need to be strengthened in the inner man through the Spirit.
What Are the Riches of the Glory of God? Ephesians 3:14–19, Part 4
29 juni 2021 |
min
How do you determine what a phrase like “the riches of his glory” might mean? Join John Piper as he walks through how he draws truth and reality out of Scripture.
How Can We Experience the Fullness of God? Ephesians 3:14–19, Part 3
26 juni 2021 |
min
O God, give us strength to comprehend the fullness of your love, that we might be filled with your fullness.
The Family of God in Heaven and on Earth: Ephesians 3:14–19, Part 2
22 juni 2021 |
min
Believers everywhere and throughout time are a new family called by a new name: children of God.
Why Does Paul Pray After Teaching? Ephesians 3:14–19, Part 1
19 juni 2021 |
min
Prayer comes before and after teaching because God must reveal the truth to us for doctrine to have any lasting effect on us.
How Does Affliction Become a Glory? Ephesians 3:7–13, Part 9
15 juni 2021 |
min
When a man of God goes to be with the Lord, he is not to be pitied. We can rejoice for him as a man who made it home.
Confident Access to God in Christ: Ephesians 3:7–13, Part 8
12 juni 2021 |
min
How do we increase our joy in the access we have to our holy God? Through increasing our faith in the crucified Christ.
Even Demons Are Part of God’s Plan: Ephesians 3:7–13, Part 7
8 juni 2021 |
min
Nothing that transpired in history as part of God’s saving plan was decided within history. Whatever happens now was planned long ago.
The Church Puts Demons to Shame: Ephesians 3:7–13, Part 6
5 juni 2021 |
min
As the church preaches the gospel, demons are forced to watch and relive the glory of God’s triumph over evil.
What Does the Word ‘Church’ Mean? Ephesians 3:7–13, Part 5
1 juni 2021 |
min
We use the word “church” over and over in the Christian life, but what exactly does the word really mean?
A Plan No Mere Man Can Accomplish: Ephesians 3:7–13, Part 4
29 maj 2021 |
min
Preaching, reading, thinking, praying can only get us so far. God must open eyes, awaken souls, enlighten minds, and answer prayer.
What Are the Unsearchable Riches of Christ? Ephesians 3:7–13, Part 3
25 maj 2021 |
min
That the riches of Christ are unsearchable means that heaven will never become boring — that joy in God will never end.
The Chief of Sinners Made a Minister: Ephesians 3:7–13, Part 2
22 maj 2021 |
min
We need grace to be saved, and to be kept saved. We need power to be made alive, and continual power to be kept alive.
Gospel Ministry Before Angels and Demons: Ephesians 3:7–13, Part 1
18 maj 2021 |
min
The wonder of the cosmos is how wicked men can boldly approach the throne of the Holy One.
Why Christians Care About Reading Well: Ephesians 3:1–6, Part 4
15 maj 2021 |
min
Reading is essential in the Christian life. But not just any reading will do. We must be good readers because God wrote a book.
Did the Old Testament Hint Gentile Inclusion? Ephesians 3:1–6, Part 3
11 maj 2021 |
min
Were men like the apostle Peter wrong to question the inclusion of the Gentiles in God’s people? Was it hinted in the Old Testament?
Does “Mystery” Mean Beyond Understanding? Ephesians 3:1–6, Part 2
8 maj 2021 |
min
The great mystery revealed to Paul was that the Gentiles, former enemies of God, would be brought near by the blood of Christ.
Why Prison Did Not Discourage Paul: Ephesians 3:1–6, Part 1
4 maj 2021 |
min
The apostle Paul so believed in the goodness of God that when he suffered and was imprisoned for Christ, he counted it all as grace.
The Nations Are Becoming the Dwelling of God: Ephesians 2:19–22, Part 3
1 maj 2021 |
min
Do you hunger to be with God’s people? God is experienced in our gatherings in ways he cannot be experienced alone.
Are New Testament Prophets Foundational to the Church? Ephesians 2:19–22, Part 2
27 april 2021 |
min
Are there still prophets today? And how did the prophets function alongside the apostles in the early church?
Gentiles Are Full Citizens of Israel: Ephesians 2:19–22, Part 1
24 april 2021 |
min
What exactly is the relationship between Israel in the old covenant and the church in the new?
Access to God Is “in the Spirit”: Ephesians 2:14–18, Part 6
20 april 2021 |
min
We lived in fear that we would face the God of wrath in our sin, until Christ came and died so that we might call God, “Father.”
The Crescendo of Our Peace with God: Ephesians 2:14–18, Part 5
17 april 2021 |
min
The crescendo of our salvation is that, together with the rest of God’s people, we have God as our Father.
How to Undermine Ethnic Harmony: Ephesians 2:14–18, Part 4
13 april 2021 |
min
The fundamental problem in our societies is not strife between man and man but strife between God and man.
How Does an Abolished Law Create Unity? Ephesians 2:14–18, Part 3
10 april 2021 |
min
The reason that Jew and Gentile are now one new man in Christ is because the law has been abolished. What does that mean?
Jew and Gentile: One New Person: Ephesians 2:14–18, Part 2
6 april 2021 |
min
The people of Christ cannot simply give up and walk away from each other in conflict, because we are a part of the same body.
What Kind of Hostility Did Christ Remove? Ephesians 2:14–18, Part 1
3 april 2021 |
min
In ripping down the barrier between God and his people, the cross also tore down the barrier between us as people.
The Glorious Reversal of Nearness to God: Ephesians 2:11–13, Part 8
30 mars 2021 |
min
All who do not have Christ do not have God. And those who do not have Christ and God do not have hope. So, do you have Christ?
How Do Old Testament Promises Become Ours? Ephesians 2:11–13, Part 7
27 mars 2021 |
min
If we are not Jews, is it right to say that we share in the covenant promises of the Old Testament?
Do You Have to Belong to Israel to Be Saved? Ephesians 2:11–13, Part 6
23 mars 2021 |
min
Do you have to become an Israelite to enjoy the promises of God? The answer, far from being straightforward, might surprise you.
Brought Near from Five Dreadful Distances: Ephesians 2:11–13, Part 5
20 mars 2021 |
min
Gentiles were born apart from Christ, apart from God’s people, apart from God’s promises, apart from hope, and apart from God.
Why Is Circumcision Such a Big Deal? Ephesians 2:11–13, Part 4
16 mars 2021 |
min
Why is circumcision, of all the different things that could have been, the sign of the covenant between God and Israel?
Recalling Hopelessness Can Serve Happiness: Ephesians 2:11–13, Part 3
13 mars 2021 |
min
Forever and always the banner of eternal life reads, “Salvation belongs to the Lord.” This fact will forever bring us low and lift our praises high.
Should We Leave Our Failures Behind? Ephesians 2:11–13, Part 2
9 mars 2021 |
min
The apostle Paul commands us to remember and to forget in his letters. When should we remember, and when should we forget?
Salvation Is for All — Through the Jews: Ephesians 2:11–13, Part 1
6 mars 2021 |
min
Jesus was not American, not African, not Asian, not European. The Messiah came as a Jew from the Jews, and that matters.
Your Good Works Are His Good Works: Ephesians 2:8–10, Part 5
2 mars 2021 |
min
In every good deed, God is active and working. Even our good works will ultimately be ascribed to the glory of God.
We Are the Workmanship of God: Ephesians 2:8–10, Part 4
27 februari 2021 |
min
In Christ, we get a new legal standing before the judgment seat of God and a new nature to live before men.
Freed from Wrath for a Life of Goodness: Ephesians 2:8–10, Part 3
23 februari 2021 |
min
Christ has not only saved us from the wrath of God, but transformed us and saved us from the sinful nature that destined us for that wrath.
The Good News of Obliterated Boasting: Ephesians 2:8–10, Part 2
20 februari 2021 |
min
God saves sinners by his grace alone to obliterate all human boasting in his presence. Is this good news for sinners?
Is Faith a Gift of God? Ephesians 2:8–10, Part 1
16 februari 2021 |
min
If I am commanded to believe the gospel, is faith something I create, or is it a gift of God?
What Is God’s Ultimate Goal Toward Us? Ephesians 2:4–7, Part 10
13 februari 2021 |
min
God’s purpose in saving his children is to show them his eternal kindness toward them in Christ forever.
Living the Miracle of New Life in Christ: Ephesians 2:4–7, Part 9
9 februari 2021 |
min
We embrace, delight in, receive, live in, experience the miracle of being remade in Christ through our faith.
Salvation Is the Decisive Work of God: Ephesians 2:4–7, Part 8
6 februari 2021 |
min
Without our consent, without our approval, without our say, God decided to save his own.
Were Saved, Are Saved, Will Be Saved: Ephesians 2:4–7, Part 7
2 februari 2021 |
min
God has saved us. God is saving us. God will save us. All are true. All are necessary. All are glorious.
Grace Intrudes on the Undeserving: Ephesians 2:4–7, Part 6
30 januari 2021 |
min
Grace loves to shine the brightest for the most undeserving and the most unable to save themselves.
What Is It Like to Be Made Alive? Ephesians 2:4–7, Part 5
26 januari 2021 |
min
Being alive to Christ is a real experience, just like being dead to God is a real experience. What is it like?
Does God Love Everyone in the Same Way? Ephesians 2:4–7, Part 4
23 januari 2021 |
min
Does God love everyone in the world? Does God care about both the elect and non-elect in the same way?
God Is Not Stingy with Mercy: Ephesians 2:4–7, Part 3
19 januari 2021 |
min
Where would we be today, or in a thousand years, if God were not rich in mercy?
Are You Amazed You Are a Christian? Ephesians 2:4–7, Part 2
16 januari 2021 |
min
It always takes immeasurable power to raise the dead to life. Every Christian has an amazing testimony.
Does God Save Us from God? Ephesians 2:4–7, Part 1
12 januari 2021 |
min
When Christians say that we are “saved,” what exactly are we being saved from?
What (and When) Is the Wrath of God? Ephesians 2:1–3, Part 10
9 januari 2021 |
min
The plight of all humanity is that we are lovers of sin and sons of disobedience. This makes us by nature children of wrath.
Who Are the Sons of Disobedience? Ephesians 2:1–3, Part 9
5 januari 2021 |
min
Apart from Christ, we were so sinful, so wicked, so rebellious that Scripture called us children of disobedience.
God Defeated the God of This World: Ephesians 2:1–3, Part 8
2 januari 2021 |
min
The ruler and authority of the air is the same as the god of this world. The whole world lies in his power — for now.
This Present Evil Age of Sin: Ephesians 2:1–3, Part 7
29 december 2020 |
min
Christians are unavoidably out of step with this world. We do not think the same or act the same because we serve a different Master.
Walking in Sin Enslaves Us to Sin: Ephesians 2:1–3, Part 6
26 december 2020 |
min
Anyone who assumes he is free and independent apart from God is in reality enslaved to the world and a lackey of Satan.
The Difference Between Sin, Sins, and Trespasses: Ephesians 2:1–3, Part 5
22 december 2020 |
min
What is the difference between sin, sins, and trespasses in the Bible?
Why Share the Gospel with Dead People? Ephesians 2:1–3, Part 4
19 december 2020 |
min
Keep sharing the gospel with friends, families, and neighbors. People are still being saved. Power still exists in God’s great news.
Can the Spiritually Dead Please God? Ephesians 2:1–3, Part 3
15 december 2020 |
min
What does it mean that mankind is dead in their trespasses apart from Christ?
How Could We Be Healthy, Active, and Dead? Ephesians 2:1–3, Part 2
12 december 2020 |
min
Being dead apart from Christ does not mean you are inactive, unable to do anything in this world. It means you have no love or appetite for God.
United Under Wrath and the Cross: Ephesians 2:1–3, Part 1
8 december 2020 |
min
All ethnic groups stand condemned apart from Christ. And all people from every ethnic group can be redeemed by the blood of the cross.
Dead in Sin, Alive in Grace: Ephesians 2:1–3
5 december 2020 |
min
The word that describes us before Christ: Dead. The word that describes us after Christ meets us with mighty grace: Alive.
The Glorious Grace of Electing Love: Summary of Ephesians 1
1 december 2020 |
min
We need to see God’s truth not only as our theology, but as our great treasure. For that, God needs to open the eyes of our hearts.
How Does the Church Fill All in All? Ephesians 1:19–23, Part 5
28 november 2020 |
min
The church is the body of Christ, and he is the Head. He makes the decisions, he rules, and the body carries out his will.
The Head of the Church Is the Head over All: Ephesians 1:19–23, Part 4
24 november 2020 |
min
Jesus is superior to every kind of rule, authority, and dominion that you will find in any culture, any nation, among any people, anywhere in the world.
Whenever We Speak, God Hears: Ephesians 1:19–23, Part 3
21 november 2020 |
min
When we pray, when we talk to our children, when we speak to our neighbors or argue with our spouse — we speak in the sight of God.
Christ Is Always Stronger Than All: Ephesians 1:19–23, Part 2
17 november 2020 |
min
Although real evils exist in this world, our King is seated far above them all.
How Much Did It Take to Make You Believe? Ephesians 1:19–23, Part 1
14 november 2020 |
min
The power God exerts toward us who believe is greater than any force imaginable. The fiercest tornadoes are but gentle breezes in comparison.
How Prayer Opens the Eyes of Our Hearts: Ephesians 1:17–19, Part 7
10 november 2020 |
min
Lord, open the eyes of our hearts to see the value of the truths contained in your word.
Are We God’s Inheritance, Or Is He Ours? Ephesians 1:17–19, Part 6
7 november 2020 |
min
The unthinkable promise of the new covenant tells us not only that we are God’s people, but that he is our God.
The Irrevocable Glory of Our Calling: Ephesians 1:17–19, Part 5
3 november 2020 |
min
If God has called you by his grace into glory, he will never revoke that calling.
What Are the Eyes of the Heart For? Ephesians 1:17–19, Part 4
31 oktober 2020 |
min
If you have not been growing in your love for God, your eyes may have become dull to him. Ask God to show you more of Christ.
What Does It Mean to Know God? Ephesians 1:17–19, Part 3
27 oktober 2020 |
min
Knowing God is to love God — the real God. If we do not love him, we do not know him.
Do You Have the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation? Ephesians 1:17–19, Part 2
24 oktober 2020 |
min
If you have seen glory in the Bible, be assured, you can see more. Do not settle for what you’ve already seen.
Why Do We Pray to the Father of Glory? Ephesians 1:17–19, Part 1
20 oktober 2020 |
min
Why is God called the Father of glory? What does that phrase mean, and how does it shape and inspire our prayers?
Faith and Love Mark Every Christian: Ephesians 1:15–16, Part 3
17 oktober 2020 |
min
Why are faith and love so tied together in the Bible? Because they are tied together as a summary of the Christian life.
Why Do We Thank God for Our Love? Ephesians 1:15–16, Part 2
13 oktober 2020 |
min
When you look at your life and notice greater devotion to Christ, greater obedience to his word, greater love for God and for neighbor — thank God.
How to Transform Theology into Praise: Ephesians 1:15–16, Part 1
10 oktober 2020 |
min
Do you still pray for God to show you more of himself? No matter what you have seen so far, there are still worlds to see.
Why Is God’s Pursuit of Praise Not Conceited? Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 13
6 oktober 2020 |
min
How could God be loving and do everything he does for his own praise?
Is God Decisive in Saving Faith? Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 12
3 oktober 2020 |
min
The human heart is dead, fleshly, blind, natural, unable to believe the word of God — without the Holy Spirit.
Adopted and Redeemed Now, But Not Yet: Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 11
29 september 2020 |
min
We are God’s possession. Sealed with his Spirit. Adopted. Redeemed. Yet awaiting our full adoption and redemption.
The Holy Spirit Seals Us for God: Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 10
26 september 2020 |
min
What does it mean to be sealed with the Holy Spirit? And how does his sealing affect the Christian life?
What Does It Mean to Believe in Christ? Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 9
22 september 2020 |
min
What is involved in saving faith? The devils, for instance, believe but are not saved. What is different for us?
How Do We Win the Elect to Christ? Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 8
19 september 2020 |
min
How do we win our elect neighbors, friends, and family members to Christ? What do we say?
What Exactly Is the Gospel? Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 7
15 september 2020 |
min
According to Scripture, what exactly is the gospel?
How Is the Gospel True and Saving? Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 6
12 september 2020 |
min
Some define it too narrowly, and others too broadly. So, what exactly is the gospel?
Hostile Enemies Made One in Christ: Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 5
8 september 2020 |
min
The mystery of Christ is that former enemies — Jews and Gentiles — are now united as one in Christ and share one inheritance.
If God Is Sovereign, What Can We Do? Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 4
5 september 2020 |
min
If God is absolutely sovereign over everything, is there anything truly meaningful for us to do?
Why Does the Sovereignty of God Matter? Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 3
1 september 2020 |
min
The sovereignty of God is explosively relevant for all of life. Come study his power and authority over all things, including you.
The Precious Importance of Predestination: Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 2
29 augusti 2020 |
min
Why does the apostle Paul spend so much time drilling down into the realities and importance of predestination?
Chosen by God to Inherit God: Ephesians 1:11–14, Part 1
25 augusti 2020 |
min
The glory of adoption is that we now receive an inheritance from God, and the best inheritance he could give us is himself.
The Sum of All Things Is Christ: Ephesians 1:7–10, Part 9
22 augusti 2020 |
min
The grand climax of God’s plan in history, indeed the very point of all creation, is summed up in one word: Christ.
The Pleasure of God in All of History: Ephesians 1:7–10, Part 8
18 augusti 2020 |
min
God has a joyful plan and has worked it out in history, and the climax of that plan is the person and work of his Son.
The Basis and Essence of God’s Grace: Ephesians 1:7–10, Part 7
15 augusti 2020 |
min
Nothing can be clearer about the nature of grace than to realize our life in Christ is owing to nothing in us. We were dead.
Knowing God’s Plan Is a Lavish Grace: Ephesians 1:7–10, Part 6
11 augusti 2020 |
min
Have you begun to take the Bible for granted? Even knowing God’s will is an immense grace from God.
Grace Flows from Joy in the Trinity: Ephesians 1:7–10, Part 5
8 augusti 2020 |
min
“To the praise of the glory of his grace” summarizes the purpose of Ephesians, your life, and history.
Christ Redeems Us from Disobedience: Ephesians 1:7–10, Part 4
4 augusti 2020 |
min
Christ’s blood not only purchases our forgiveness, but our obedience. We were not only redeemed from guilt, but from our futile ways of living.
How the Cross Secures Our Resurrection: Ephesians 1:7–10, Part 3
1 augusti 2020 |
min
The blood of Christ not only frees us from just wrath; it frees us from the depths of the grave.
God Saves Us from His Own Wrath: Ephesians 1:7–10, Part 2
28 juli 2020 |
min
God does not sweep our sins under the rug. He sent his Son to hang on a tree to satisfy his hatred against our crimes.
What Does Redemption Mean? Ephesians 1:7–10, Part 1
25 juli 2020 |
min
What does redemption in Christ mean, and why is it important for every person on the planet?
The Origin and End of All Things: Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 13
21 juli 2020 |
min
Travel from eternity to eternity with John Piper as he submerges himself in the boundless oceans of Ephesians 1:3–6.
How Do Predestination and Election Relate? Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 12
18 juli 2020 |
min
What is the distinction between election and predestination? Are they the same thing?
Holy in Love or Adopted in Love? Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 11
14 juli 2020 |
min
Some of the shiniest gold lies ready to be discovered in the mines of Scripture. Will we take the time to dig for and uncover them?
God Is Preparing His Holy Bride: Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 10
11 juli 2020 |
min
Before the stars lit up the night sky. Before the sun blazed in the heavens. God planned for his people to be radiantly holy forever before him.
Election Silences Pride and Awakens Praise: Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 9
7 juli 2020 |
min
God chose his people in his Son, before the foundation of the world, to put an end to all boasting and to secure eternal praise of the glory of his grace.
Why Did God Choose Whom He Chose? Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 8
4 juli 2020 |
min
Why did God choose anybody for eternal life? And as he did choose some for eternal life, how did he choose those he chose?
Were We Chosen as Sinful or Innocent? Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 7
30 juni 2020 |
min
When God chose us before the foundation of the world, did he consider us blameless or sinful?
Was Election Based on Foreknown Faith? Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 6
27 juni 2020 |
min
Did God choose his people because he saw their faith ahead of time?
Did God Really Choose Individuals to Be Saved? Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 5
23 juni 2020 |
min
Did God really choose individuals to be saved before the foundation of the world?
What God Did Before the World Began: Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 4
20 juni 2020 |
min
God did not look at our works and consider us worthy of eternal life. Before the foundation of the world, he blessed us in his Son by grace alone.
Destined for Everything Heaven Can Offer: Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 3
16 juni 2020 |
min
If we knew what awaits us in Christ, we would hold to this world with a far weaker grip.
Does the Lord Jesus Have a God? Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 2
13 juni 2020 |
min
If Jesus is God, why does Scripture say that the Father is the God of Jesus?
Studying the Bible as Worship: Ephesians 1:3–6, Part 1
9 juni 2020 |
min
All exposition of the Scriptures should fly under the banner of exultation in the glory of God displayed in the Scriptures.
What Are Grace and Peace? Ephesians 1:1–2, Part 8
6 juni 2020 |
min
Everything in all of history and all of redemption is to the praise of the glory of God’s grace.
How Is Our Faithfulness Different from God’s? Ephesians 1:1–2, Part 7
2 juni 2020 |
min
Our God is the faithful one. He surely does what he has committed himself to do for his people.
What Is the Holiness of God? Ephesians 1:1–2, Part 6
30 maj 2020 |
min
God’s holiness means that he is in a class by himself, infinitely above and distinct from all else. He is transcendent.
Are Only Special Christians Saints? Ephesians 1:1–2, Part 5
26 maj 2020 |
min
Paul calls Christians “saints” dozens of times in his letters — far more than any other name. What does it mean?
Different and Precious Names for Jesus: Ephesians 1:1–2, Part 4
23 maj 2020 |
min
Paul uses a variety of names to describe Jesus, and they are all meaningful. What can we learn from each?
What Are the Two Wills of God? Ephesians 1:1–2, Part 3
19 maj 2020 |
min
Are there really two wills in God? If so, what difference does that make for how we read the Bible?
What Does It Mean to Be an Apostle? Ephesians 1:1–2, Part 2
16 maj 2020 |
min
What does it mean to be an apostle? Are they different from disciples? And why does it matter?
Who Was This Man Named Paul? Ephesians 1:1–2, Part 1
12 maj 2020 |
min
A former Pharisee, a converted persecutor of the church, a man with two names, but one holy ambition: the apostle Paul.
Summary of Philippians in Nine Steps: Philippians 1–4
9 maj 2020 |
min
What is at the heart of the book of Philippians? The display of the beauty of the gospel, the supreme worth of Christ, and the glory of God.
Why Do Greetings Matter? Philippians 4:21–23
5 maj 2020 |
min
One of the most overlooked ways to love the saints each week is to look them in the eye and greet them.
Philippians 4:20: Joining the Great Goal of the Universe
2 maj 2020 |
min
When we live for the glory of God, we join God in living for his ultimate purpose in all things.
Philippians 4:18–20, Part 3: No Need You Have Will Exhaust God
28 april 2020 |
min
Our needs being met will never be limited by anything lacking in God. He has riches upon riches of mercy for those who ask him.
Philippians 4:18–20, Part 2: Does God Really Supply All Our Needs?
25 april 2020 |
min
Should I take God’s promises to provide for all my needs in every circumstance literally?
Philippians 4:18–20, Part 1: Can Imperfect Christians Please a Perfect God?
21 april 2020 |
min
How can our actions, filled with mixed motives, ever please a holy God?
Philippians 4:17, Part 2: Strive for the Fruit That Lasts Forever
18 april 2020 |
min
Invest your treasure in heaven through faith-filled, Spirit-empowered, Christ-exalting good works on earth.
Philippians 4:17, Part 1: Woe to Ministers Who Crave Money
14 april 2020 |
min
As pastors, we must actively strive to make it clear that we do not do what we do for money.
Philippians 4:14–16: Any Christian Generosity Is Beautiful to God
11 april 2020 |
min
God counts it a beautiful thing when churches show that their treasure is in heaven by giving to kingdom work on earth.
Philippians 4:10–13, Part 6: How to Actually Live the Secret of Contentment
7 april 2020 |
min
How can I go hungry to the glory of God? How can I lose a child to the glory of God? How can I receive a promotion to the glory of God?
Philippians 4:10–13, Part 5: The Secret of Christ-Exalting Contentment
4 april 2020 |
min
We tend to think contentment in Christ is hardest when life is hard, and easier when life is more comfortable, but reality says the opposite.
Philippians 4:10–13, Part 4: How Does True Contentment Come?
31 mars 2020 |
min
If we are truly content in Christ, our contentment will increasingly silence all our grumbling.
Philippians 4:10–13, Part 3: How Does Self-Sufficiency Exalt Christ?
28 mars 2020 |
min
The secret to overcoming obstacles is not believing that you can do anything you put your mind to, but doing whatever you do in the strength of Christ.
Philippians 4:10–13, Part 2: The Secret to Joy in Any Circumstance
24 mars 2020 |
min
Real happiness is untethered from this world. Whether we abound or are brought low, we have Christ.
Philippians 4:10–13, Part 1: True Honesty Minimizes Misunderstanding
21 mars 2020 |
min
A wise person not only knows what he wants to say, but how others will hear him say it.
Philippians 4:8–9, Part 3: How to Experience the Presence of God
17 mars 2020 |
min
How can I live to experience peace in the presence of God?
Philippians 4:8–9, Part 2: What Does the Mind of Peace Think About?
14 mars 2020 |
min
What do you think about most? How you answer the question will reveal how much of the peace of God you experience.
Philippians 4:8–9, Part 1: The Peace of God Does Not Produce Passivity
10 mars 2020 |
min
One way to find peace beyond our circumstances is to set our minds on things above our circumstances.
Philippians 4:4–7, Part 6: How God’s Peace Guards Our Hearts and Minds
7 mars 2020 |
min
The peace of God is not a calm stream to jump in when life becomes difficult. It is a home we live in, at all times, as we wait for heaven.
Philippians 4:4–7, Part 5: Battling Anxiety with Thankful Prayer
3 mars 2020 |
min
Replace anxiety with this way of life: In whatever would make you anxious and cause you not to rejoice, go vertical in prayer.
Philippians 4:4–7, Part 4: Is Any Christian Anxiety Good?
29 februari 2020 |
min
Paul says, “Do not be anxious about anything,” but does that really mean anything? Is any Christian anxiety good?
Philippians 4:4–7, Part 3: How Is the Lord’s Coming ‘at Hand’?
25 februari 2020 |
min
“The Lord is at hand.” The apostle Paul wrote that more than 2,000 years ago, so why hasn’t Jesus come yet?
Philippians 4:4–7, Part 2: Gentleness Exposes Our Prayer Lives
22 februari 2020 |
min
Let people hear your gentle responses. Let God hear your cries for help.
Philippians 4:4–7, Part 1: Can Anyone Really Rejoice ‘Always’?
18 februari 2020 |
min
How could we possibly, in our world full of sin and death, “rejoice always”?
Matthew 11:25–30, Part 7: Is His Yoke Really Easy?
15 februari 2020 |
min
Countless ways exist to ruin your eternity and go to hell. Only one Way leads to eternal life: Jesus Christ.
Matthew 11:25–30, Part 6: What Kind of Rest Does Jesus Give?
11 februari 2020 |
min
Sin’s burden breaks the soul’s back. Jesus’s burden strengthens the soul and leads to rest.
Matthew 11:25–30, Part 5: The Sweetest Invitation in the New Testament
8 februari 2020 |
min
Christ invites you to lay down self-sufficiency and come find rest for your soul in him, a rest that can never be taken.
Matthew 11:25–30, Part 4: We Cannot See Jesus Without God
4 februari 2020 |
min
Thousands saw Jesus, but did not see him. Millions read the Bible and do not worship Jesus. Salvation belongs to the Lord.
Matthew 11:25–30, Part 3: Only God Can Reveal God
1 februari 2020 |
min
The pride of man is eternally humbled by the simple fact that unless God reveals himself to us, we could never have repented or believed.
Matthew 11:25–30, Part 2: God Must Give Spiritual Sight
28 januari 2020 |
min
If God does not reveal himself to us, even the wisest, the strongest, the richest will not find him.
Matthew 11:25–30, Part 1: God Hides Salvation from the Proud
25 januari 2020 |
min
God has hidden works from some that if performed would have caused them to repent. Why?
Matthew 11:20–24, Part 2: Will Hell Be Worse for Some?
21 januari 2020 |
min
Some cities, Jesus says, are worse than Sodom. How they responded to him increased their judgment.
Matthew 11:20–24, Part 1: Miracles Are Meant to Drive Repentance
18 januari 2020 |
min
Even healing can be dangerous, if we do not reckon with the purpose of our healing: repentance.
Philippians 4:2–3, Part 4: Why Does It Matter That Their Names Are in the Book of Life?
14 januari 2020 |
min
The frustrations and grievances we carry against other Christians would feel different if we could see their names written in the book of life.
Philippians 4:2–3, Part 3: Eight Ways Paul Encourages Euodia and Syntyche to Come to One Mind
11 januari 2020 |
min
Pastors are not called to create unity in the body of Christ. They are called to help their people maintain it.
Philippians 4:2–3, Part 2: The Bible and the Sermon Are Not Always Enough
7 januari 2020 |
min
Reconciliation between believers in our churches will require more than the pastor’s preaching or our private Bible reading.
Philippians 4:2–3, Part 1: How Pervasive Is Paul’s Concern with Conflict in the Church?
4 januari 2020 |
min
Christians share more than the same worldview. They share the same heart, the same mind, the same body, and the same Savior.
Micah 5:2, Part 4: How the Priests and Scribes Abused the Bible
31 december 2019 |
min
Some people who teach the Bible should not be teaching the Bible. Here is an example from the Bible.
Micah 5:2, Part 3: The Global Majesty of the God-Man
28 december 2019 |
min
Jesus is not a small Savior for small sins against God. Jesus is the global Savior for a world full of children of wrath.
Micah 5:2, Part 2: The Lowly, Ancient Origins of the King
24 december 2019 |
min
From the small and lowly city of Bethlehem came the great ruler of the whole world.
Micah 5:2, Part 1: How Did Prophets See the Future?
21 december 2019 |
min
The prophecies of the Bible can be confusing. One way to help us interpret them is to understand how prophets saw the future.
Isaiah 9:1–7, Part 4: God’s Zeal to Enthrone His Son on Earth
17 december 2019 |
min
If men and women and children could see rightly, they would fall over themselves to enter the kingdom of a King like ours.
Isaiah 9:1–7, Part 3: What Kind of Government Will God Bring?
14 december 2019 |
min
Only he whose hands bear the scars of nails, hands strong enough to bear our wrath, can hold the scepter over the redeemed people of God.
Isaiah 9:1–7, Part 2: Yoke Broken, Joy Soaring, Enemies Serving
10 december 2019 |
min
When God came to conquer his enemies, he prevailed so thoroughly that they became useful for his purposes and our good.
Isaiah 9:1–7, Part 1: Gloom to Glory by a Great Light
7 december 2019 |
min
The Bible is beautifully coherent. Join John Piper as he studies the great prophecy given of Jesus in Isaiah.
Four Obstacles in Bible Reading, Part 4: ‘My Emotional Response Is Weak’
3 december 2019 |
min
If you read the Bible and don’t feel anything, cry out to God, “Satisfy me in the morning with your steadfast love.”
Four Obstacles in Bible Reading, Part 3: ‘I Am Distracted and Divided’
30 november 2019 |
min
We are so prone to distraction. Has the prayer “Unite my heart to fear your name” ever been more relevant?
Four Obstacles in Bible Reading, Part 2: ‘I Don’t See Wonders’
26 november 2019 |
min
God must give us both eyes to see his glory in the word and hearts to love that glory.
Four Obstacles in Bible Reading, Part 1: ‘I Don’t Want to Read the Bible’
23 november 2019 |
min
What can I do when I don’t want to read my Bible?
2 Timothy 2:1–7, Part 4: Single-mindedness, Integrity, and Diligence Through Grace
19 november 2019 |
min
When Paul thought of Christian ministry, he thought of a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer. Do you?
2 Timothy 2:1–7, Part 3: Teaching the Bible Takes Supernatural Strength
16 november 2019 |
min
You do not need new curriculum to disciple someone in the Bible; you need supernatural strength from God.
2 Timothy 2:1–7, Part 2: Grace Is Power, Not Just Pardon
12 november 2019 |
min
If you think you have received grace but have no new power to seek God and kill sin, you may not have received God’s grace.
2 Timothy 2:1–7, Part 1: Is Spiritual Insight a Product of Thinking or Praying?
9 november 2019 |
min
Those who expect to have spiritual insight without thinking hard do not know how God gives understanding.
Foundations of Christian Hedonism, Part 11: God Glorified, Man Satisfied
5 november 2019 |
min
If you desire God to get glory from your life, take your joy in him very seriously.
Foundations of Christian Hedonism, Part 10: Love for People as the Overflow of Joy
2 november 2019 |
min
Pursuing greater, deeper joy in God increases, not diminishes or hinders, our love for other people.
Foundations of Christian Hedonism, Part 9: Joy in Suffering Shows the Worth of God
29 oktober 2019 |
min
Suffering with joy in this world is one of the greatest advertisements for the reality of the next.
Foundations of Christian Hedonism, Part 7: The Severing of Boasting and Self-Pity
22 oktober 2019 |
min
Joy in Christ is not passive or timid. It severs, with holy aggression, all boasting and self-pity still within us.
Foundations of Christian Hedonism, Part 6: Is Joy Essential to Saving Faith?
19 oktober 2019 |
min
If our faith in Jesus does not involve an enjoying of Jesus, it is not saving faith.
Foundations of Christian Hedonism, Part 5: Conversion to Christ — and Joy
15 oktober 2019 |
min
The essence of genuine conversion to Christ is awakening to Christ as supremely valuable.
Foundations of Christian Hedonism, Part 4: What Is the Essence of Evil?
12 oktober 2019 |
min
We should pursue our fullest and most lasting satisfaction in God because to find that satisfaction anywhere else is the essence of evil.
Foundations of Christian Hedonism, Part 3: If You Refuse to Be Happy
8 oktober 2019 |
min
It is our duty, not just our opportunity, to pursue God. And he underlines this reality by threatening judgment if we will not seek happiness in him.
Foundations of Christian Hedonism, Part 2: God Demands Our Delight
5 oktober 2019 |
min
God cares more about your happiness than you do. He is so serious about your joy that he threatens hell if you refuse to find it in him.
Foundations of Christian Hedonism, Part 1: The Duty of Delight
1 oktober 2019 |
min
Christian Hedonism: A life devoted to pursuing the fullest and longest pleasure in God through Jesus Christ.
Philippians 4:1, Part 4: Stand Firm in the Strength of God
28 september 2019 |
min
God does not call us to stand firm in our own willpower, relying on our own strength. He calls us to stand firm in the Lord.
Philippians 4:1, Part 3: What Crown Will Christians Receive?
24 september 2019 |
min
Other Christians will stand as evidence on the last day that you truly loved the Lord Jesus during your lifetime.
Philippians 4:1, Part 2: Can We Love Christians Too Much?
21 september 2019 |
min
How can the apostle Paul call other believers “my joy” when he just said that he counts everything as loss compared to knowing Christ?
Philippians 4:1, Part 1: Love and Long for One Another
17 september 2019 |
min
The apostle Paul expressed a deep love and longing in his letters. How often do you express that kind of love to other Christians?
1 Corinthians 10:13, Part 2: What Is the Way of Escape in Temptation?
10 september 2019 |
min
How can God say he will provide us with an escape in our tests and trials while also saying he will help us endure them?
1 Corinthians 10:13, Part 1: Is Every Temptation a Test from God?
7 september 2019 |
min
Don’t limit the word “temptation” to something that lures us into sin. Anything that tries to pull us away from God is a temptation. Anything.
Philippians 3:18–21: Our Bodies Will Shine Like the Sun
3 september 2019 |
min
When this life comes to an end, when our frail bodies sputter for the last time, God will raise us from the dead and give us glorious bodies.
Philippians 3:18–21: What Will My New Body Be Like?
31 augusti 2019 |
min
Someday soon we get to exchange our crippled and lowly body for a glorious and heavenly one.
Philippians 3:18–21: Live Like You Belong in Heaven
27 augusti 2019 |
min
If you are Christ’s, you don’t belong here. This is not your home. Your citizenship is in heaven.
Philippians 3:18–21: How to Be an Enemy of the Cross
24 augusti 2019 |
min
Even though Paul could outdo every Pharisee in law-keeping, he had no confidence in the law. But he had full confidence in the cross.
Philippians 3:18–21: Two Ways to Oppose God
20 augusti 2019 |
min
God’s enemies will face God’s eternal wrath. So who are these enemies of the cross, and how do I know I am not one of them?
Philippians 3:18–21: Two Ways to Nullify the Cross
17 augusti 2019 |
min
The cross was designed by God to humble us. It reminds us that we need Christ’s blood to rescue us, and his power to strengthen us.
Philippians 3:18–21: Are You Ruled by Your Desires?
13 augusti 2019 |
min
To love the world and all its riches may scratch an itch for a moment, but it will cost you everything in the end.
Philippians 3:18–21: A Mini-Theology of Hell
10 augusti 2019 |
min
As hard as it may be, we must face the reality that hell exists and is promised to all of God’s enemies.
Philippians 3:18–21: Do You Weep Over the Perishing?
6 augusti 2019 |
min
God does not call us to learn just from Paul’s teaching but also from his emotions. Do you weep over the lost like the apostle Paul?
Philippians 3:17: The Kind of Person You Should Imitate
3 augusti 2019 |
min
The question is not if you are imitating, but who. We either imitate those who walk toward heaven or those who walk toward hell.
Philippians 3:17: Should Someone Imitate Your Life?
30 juli 2019 |
min
God has given you life to honor him, display him, and summon others to follow him.
Job 19:11–42:12: The Lord Gives and Takes Away
27 juli 2019 |
min
Though God may take away, he has made a promise — and sealed it with his Son’s blood — that he will give back more.
Job 2:4–10: How a Fool Responds to Suffering
23 juli 2019 |
min
We have a refuge in times of trouble, safety amid life’s storms. Only a fool curses the shelter and runs into the eye of the storm.
Job 1:20–2:8: If God Afflicts You, Will You Curse Him?
20 juli 2019 |
min
No suffering takes God by surprise. He alone is the perfect help in our pain. Should all around our soul give way, he then is all our hope and stay.
Job 1:6–22: How to Respond to Tragedy
16 juli 2019 |
min
We cannot respond however we want when we suffer. Though we can grieve and mourn, if we never get to worship, we’ve stopped short.
Job 1:1–2:3: Who Caused Job’s Suffering?
13 juli 2019 |
min
If God stripped away our gifts — our income, our family, even our own health — would we curse him or bless his name?
Job 1:1–12: Can You Trust God in Your Pain?
9 juli 2019 |
min
Job remained steadfast in his suffering and has left us with a model for how to trust God with our pain.
Philippians 3:15–16: Stages of the Christian Life
6 juli 2019 |
min
No one starts as a mature Christian. Keep seeking God. Keep laboring to grow. And keep trusting that God will bring about our maturity.
Philippians 3:15–16: How God Changes Our Minds
2 juli 2019 |
min
God changes minds through ordinary means: Our gaze fixed upon his word, our knees bowed in prayer, and our time spent with our eternal family.
Philippians 3:15–16: How to Disagree with a Christian
29 juni 2019 |
min
We cannot disagree with Christians in any way we want. God has given us boundaries and ways forward.
Philippians 3:15–16: What the Mature Think About
25 juni 2019 |
min
A heavenly mindset will not be lofty and self-righteous, but humble and God-dependent.
Philippians 3:15–16: What Does It Mean to Be Mature?
22 juni 2019 |
min
God wants us to grow up and leave behind childish ways. And he has done everything necessary to ensure it can happen.
Luke 6:20–26: Human Praise Is a Cheap Reward
18 juni 2019 |
min
Those who live for riches and the praise of man today will have hunger, mourning, and weeping tomorrow.
Luke 6:20–26: Should I Look For a Reward from God?
15 juni 2019 |
min
Do we err when we love others for the reward God offers us? No. Only those who labor for what God promises are rich enough to love others selflessly.
Luke 6:20–26: How Christians Laugh
11 juni 2019 |
min
Those who follow Christ can weep now, can be poor and temporarily hated now, and yet remain wildly blessed because theirs is the coming kingdom.
Luke 6:20–26: The Kind of People God Blesses
8 juni 2019 |
min
If we are Christ’s disciples — whether poor, hungry, weeping, or persecuted — we are blessed.
Evidence of the New Birth: Living Out Identity in Christ
4 juni 2019 |
min
All of the New Testament commandments are a call to become in experience what we are in Christ. And what we are in Christ is a new creation.
The Effort Needed to Fight Sin: Living Out Identity in Christ
1 juni 2019 |
min
The Christian’s life on earth will always be walking along the narrow path. Living for sin is easy. Following Christ requires carrying a cross daily.
Be Who You Are: Living Out Identity in Christ
28 maj 2019 |
min
When we read commands and obligations, we are being summoned to become in experience what we are in Christ.
Philippians 3:11–14: Run Hard for Your Reward
25 maj 2019 |
min
We are going to win this race. We are going to get the crown. Not because we are great runners, but because Christ has made us his own.
Philippians 3:11–14: When Should I Forget My Past?
21 maj 2019 |
min
Pursue, strain forward, press on. God wants us to put all energy into making it to the end, not revisiting the life we had before we started the race.
Philippians 3:11–14: The One Reason to Live
18 maj 2019 |
min
Devote your whole life to this one pursuit: attaining the fullest possible experience of Christ imaginable.
Philippians 3:11–14: Can I Really Have Assurance?
14 maj 2019 |
min
God wants to give his children the assurance that they will be saved. But not the kind of assurance that ignores the warnings along the way.
Philippians 3:11–14: Does Paul Think He Could Miss the Resurrection?
11 maj 2019 |
min
The crown of life belongs to those who seek holiness, who hold fast to Christ, who finish the race. The crown of life belongs to Christians.
James 4:13–16: Is God Sovereign over Evil?
7 maj 2019 |
min
We do God no favors by excusing him from being sovereign over evil. But we can steal confidence from his children that nothing happens to them without a purpose.
Your Life Is a Mist: James 4:13–16
4 maj 2019 |
min
Planning becomes sinful when we presume whatever we schedule will come to pass. Preface all of life with “If the Lord wills.”
James 1:12–15: Does God Ever Tempt Me to Sin?
30 april 2019 |
min
God’s sovereignty means he reigns over every trial. And his love means that he intends them all for our good and his glory.
James 1:12–15: Is God Testing Me?
27 april 2019 |
min
Don’t get discouraged if the fight against sin seems endless. The fight is necessary, the fight is winnable, and the fight will end.
Philippians 3:7–10: Suffering Can Be an Answer to Prayer
23 april 2019 |
min
Christian, God is working in your suffering. He is working Christlikeness, working trust, working to draw you closer to himself.
Philippians 3:7–10: Where to Turn When Suffering Comes
20 april 2019 |
min
God gives us power — not to escape or avoid suffering — but to endure suffering while looking to Christ.
Philippians 3:7–10: The Mark of a True Christian
16 april 2019 |
min
In this life, we will suffer. And through that suffering, we will know Christ in a way nothing else can provide.
Luke 5:1–11: How a Prosperity Preacher Abuses a Verse
2 april 2019 |
min
Prosperity preachers not only twist and mangle the Bible’s message. They twist and mangle their hearers.
2 Timothy 3:16–4:5: Why Do We Need Preaching?
30 mars 2019 |
min
We need the word of God to correct our passions, rebuke our passions, and shape our passions.
2 Timothy 3:16–4:5: Preachers Must Say Hard Things
26 mars 2019 |
min
Good preaching says hard things, calls out sin, and makes us uncomfortable, because good preaching heralds God’s word.
2 Timothy 3:16–4:5: How to Pray for Your Pastor’s Sermon
23 mars 2019 |
min
What the church needs this Sunday is God’s word — not laugh-out-loud humor, not moving stories, not news updates — God’s word.
Philippians 3:8–9: One Way to Know You’re in Christ
19 mars 2019 |
min
Faith is the experience of Christ as our surpassing worth and all else as rubbish by comparison.
Philippians 3:8–9: The Garbage We Bring to God
16 mars 2019 |
min
When we gain Christ, we get a right standing before God that depends upon Christ and not ourselves.
What Christ Might Cost You: Philippians 3:7–8
12 mars 2019 |
min
A Christianity that never inconveniences us, never discomforts us, never costs anything, is not Christianity.
Philippians 3:2–7: Morality Minus Jesus Damns Us
9 mars 2019 |
min
We can feel safe before a holy God and boast of a sure eternity. But we cannot do that by looking to ourselves.
Philippians 3:2–7: Seven Deadly Confidences
5 mars 2019 |
min
The right parents, religious fervor, even good deeds will not save. We could have thousands of confidences, but all will fail unless it is Christ.
Philippians 3:2–7: How to Live in the Flesh
2 mars 2019 |
min
We act out miracles when we do ordinary tasks — attending a work meeting, eating dinner with our family, talking to a neighbor — relying on Christ.
Philippians 3:2–7: Put No Confidence in the Flesh
26 februari 2019 |
min
Paul had an impressive résumé and a lifetime’s worth of accolades — but none of them could save him, and none of them could compete with gaining Christ.
Titus 2:11–14: The Christian Life Is Waiting
23 februari 2019 |
min
A longing for heaven can’t help but eclipse longings for worldly pursuits because a longing for future glory produces in us a pursuit of glory today.
Titus 2:11–14: The Best (and Hardest) Life
19 februari 2019 |
min
Our hope does not rest on ourselves, our neighbors, our politicians, or our kings, but on the one and only true and coming King.
Titus 2:11–14: Cheap Grace Is No Grace
16 februari 2019 |
min
Those who say they know grace while refusing to pursue holiness do not know God’s grace as taught by Paul.
Titus 2:11–14: The Grace of God Appeared
12 februari 2019 |
min
God’s grace didn’t appear in a note from heaven telling sinners not to worry about it. God’s grace came in the person of Jesus Christ.
Genesis 50:16–21: Does God Rule over Sin?
9 februari 2019 |
min
God rules over sin, but never sins. This truth does not come from John Piper’s ideals, but from the Bible.
Acts 4:23–30: God Planned the Death of Jesus
5 februari 2019 |
min
Where was God when the worst evil in history took place? Right where he’s always been: seated on his throne, ruling over all.
Acts 4:23–30: Pray for Boldness
2 februari 2019 |
min
The silent begin to speak, the timid become courageous, the army begins to march when the church prays for boldness.
Acts 4:23–30: Sufferers Need a Sovereign God
29 januari 2019 |
min
A sovereign God reigns over suffering. Therefore, we have a place to go for help, healing, and hope.
Romans 15:18–21: Is Your Ambition in Life Christian?
26 januari 2019 |
min
We all must decide how we are going to fill the hours of our week. But how do we know what to commit to?
Romans 15:18–21: How God Uses Missionaries
22 januari 2019 |
min
Missions exists because God’s glory deserves global recognition.
Philippians 3:1–3: Has Your Belly Become Your God?
19 januari 2019 |
min
If Christ is not your treasure, you can search the whole globe and you will never find what you’re looking for.
Philippians 3:1–3: Who You Are in Christ
15 januari 2019 |
min
If you are in Christ, you have a new family, a new inheritance, a new identity.
Learn to Rejoice in Conflict: Philippians 3:1–2
12 januari 2019 |
min
Loving others will be costly, uncomfortable, and countercultural. But he gives more grace in our times of need.
Philippians 3:1: How to Meditate on a Verse
8 januari 2019 |
min
A culture of fast food and insta-everything has nearly made biblical meditation extinct.
Colossians 1:19–20: Will Everyone Be Saved Eventually?
5 januari 2019 |
min
Does the Bible teach that atheists, members of other religions, and others who never followed Christ will be saved in the end?
Philippians 2:25–30: God Measures All Our Sorrows
1 januari 2019 |
min
We have no promise that our sorrows will go away. But we have the promise that God will give us grace to make it through.
Philippians 2:25–30: Risk Yourself for the Sake of Others
29 december 2018 |
min
Many of us desire to genuinely love others better than we do now. But are we willing to pay the price?
Philippians 2:25–30: How to Make Decisions Biblically
20 december 2018 |
min
Most of the decisions we make in life are not based upon direct commands from the Bible. But that does not mean we cannot make biblically informed, wise decisions.
Philippians 2:25–30: A Bible Study Method for Leaders
18 december 2018 |
min
No time spent learning how to study the Bible more faithfully is wasted.
John 3:16: Nine Promises About Eternal Life
13 december 2018 |
min
Every temptation rendered powerless, every sickness eradicated, every tear banished — this is only the start of what eternity with God will be like.
John 3:16: Don’t Believe Like Judas
11 december 2018 |
min
Judas believed. The demons believe. And if we believe in the same way, we’ll share their fate. Faith must believe in and treasure all that God is for us in Christ.
For God So Loved the World
8 december 2018 |
min
Soldiers take bullets for one another. Parents sacrifice daily for their kids. But who dies for their enemies? God did.
Our Favorite Verse in the Bible
4 december 2018 |
min
As a sinner, you can’t afford to ignore the good or the bad news in John 3:16.
Faith Starves Sexual Sin
1 december 2018 |
min
Heaven will be full of sexual sinners who repented and fought against lust with God’s help. It will not be full of those who refused to fight.
When You Want to Give Up
27 november 2018 |
min
Preach God’s promises to your sadness. And keep preaching — for days, months, years, a lifetime. However long it takes.
Why We Hold on to Bitterness
24 november 2018 |
min
How can I let go of the bitterness I still carry and treat people who hurt me better than they deserve?
Only Contentment Kills Covetousness
20 november 2018 |
min
Our coveting problem is really a worship problem. We want what we cannot have because we believe that God is not enough.
How to Be More Patient
17 november 2018 |
min
Whether it’s crawling through rush-hour traffic or suffering through years of loneliness, God has given us what we need to have patience.
Freedom from Misplaced Shame
13 november 2018 |
min
Not all shame is created equal. Some shame should be heeded and some shame should be defeated. Here’s how to fight misplaced shame.
What You Need to Kill Pride
10 november 2018 |
min
Most of us have spent our lives fighting the bulletproof tanks of pride with a pea shooter. Here is what you actually need to kill it.
Nine Promises for Every Anxiety
6 november 2018 |
min
If we fully believed what God has promised in the Bible, anxiety would have no place in our lives.
How to Love People When It’s Hard
3 november 2018 |
min
The never-ending rewards of heaven give us never-ending reasons to love others today.
Saving Faith Is a Sin-Assassin
30 oktober 2018 |
min
What does saving faith feel like? Like water to a thirsty soul. Like finding a treasure you cannot live without.
Kill Sin or Sin Will Kill You
27 oktober 2018 |
min
Even though we are not saved by works, none of us will make it to heaven without actively killing our sin. Either we kill our sin or it will kill us.
The Danger of Unbelief
23 oktober 2018 |
min
Much is at stake in our fight against unbelief. Without love, holiness, and sin-killing, no one will see the kingdom of God.
Proverbs 26:13–16: Are You Enslaved to Laziness?
20 oktober 2018 |
min
There is a comfort that heals and a comfort that kills. Do you know the difference?
Proverbs 26:7–9: How to Understand Proverbs
16 oktober 2018 |
min
Give wisdom to a wise man, and he will grow wiser. Give wisdom to a fool, and he will hurt himself and others.
Philippians 2:19–24: Do You Live Worthy of the Gospel?
13 oktober 2018 |
min
When pride tempts you, look to the cross. When self-pity beckons, look to the cross. When everything seems alright, look to the cross.
Philippians 2:19–24: Is Christianity About Self-Denial?
9 oktober 2018 |
min
Christian self-denial constantly says “no” to that which threatens to steal joy forever.
Philippians 2:19–24: Make Others’ Interests Your Interests
6 oktober 2018 |
min
Other people’s interests are our interests because other people’s interests are Christ’s interests.
Philippians 2:19–24: One Thing to Be Anxious About
2 oktober 2018 |
min
Don’t be anxious about anything — except for this.
Philippians 2:19–24: Three Simple Words We Can’t Ignore
29 september 2018 |
min
Many search for advanced steps for Bible reading but neglect a basic one: don’t skip over words. Here are three words in the Bible we cannot ignore.
Philippians 2:19–24: Happy People Live for Others
25 september 2018 |
min
The happiest people are happy when others are. The most mature love is the love that delights in others’ joy.
Philippians 2:19–24: The Others-Oriented Life
22 september 2018 |
min
If God has placed others-oriented men and women in your life, he has done so expecting that, by his grace, you might imitate them.
How to Grow in Love for God, Part 4: How to Love God When You Don’t Feel It
18 september 2018 |
min
Our love for God enflames when we see his beauty, remember his mercy, and feel his love.
How to Grow in Love for God, Part 3: Love for God Is a Gift from God
15 september 2018 |
min
The gospel begins with the phrase, “but God,” because we can’t love him on our own.
How to Grow in Love for God, Part 2: How Do I Know If I Love God?
11 september 2018 |
min
At the heart of saving faith is a love for God. But how can you know if you truly love him?
How to Grow in Love for God, Part 1: If You Do Not Love Jesus
8 september 2018 |
min
The delightful promises of Scripture are for those who love him — and no one else.
Move: How Laziness Feeds Lust
4 september 2018 |
min
You were not made for laziness. Many people struggle with sexual immorality because they sit around when they shouldn’t.
Enjoy: The Key Ingredient for Lasting Purity
1 september 2018 |
min
Our greatest weapon against lust is joy in God. Our happiness in him gives us what we need to obtain lasting victory in the war for our souls.
Hold On: Do Not Grow Weary in Fighting Lust
28 augusti 2018 |
min
The war will be lost against lust by those who stop fighting it by the power and promises of God.
Turn: Why You Keep Falling into Sexual Sin
25 augusti 2018 |
min
Saying no to lust is not enough. We must turn to a superior pleasure — the everlasting pleasure of knowing our God.
Say No: You Have Five Seconds to Kill It
21 augusti 2018 |
min
Lust will kill you unless you deal it a death blow first. You usually have five seconds to act.
Avoid: The First Step to Defeating Lust
18 augusti 2018 |
min
The first step to fighting lust is one too many are unwilling to make — avoid it.
What Is Lust?
14 augusti 2018 |
min
Few things have destroyed more marriages, stolen more joy, or strangled more souls than lust. Do you know how to fight it?
Philippians 2:14–18: Faith Is More Precious Than Life
11 augusti 2018 |
min
If we lose everything but gain Christ, we’ve lost nothing.
Philippians 2:14–18: Do Not Labor in Vain
7 augusti 2018 |
min
When we finally see the Lord face to face, we want to hear, “Well done good and faithful servant,” not, “Your labor was in vain.”
Philippians 2:14–18: The Secret of Contentment
4 augusti 2018 |
min
God doesn’t want his secret to contentment to stay secret. He wrote it plainly in a book.
Philippians 2:14–18: Grumble-Free for His Glory
31 juli 2018 |
min
When we set aside grumbling and complaining during hard times and take up joy in the Lord, a watching world sees stars shining in a dark world.
Philippians 2:14–18: One of the Hardest Sins to Conquer
28 juli 2018 |
min
If you conquer this sin, James says you’ll be perfect, Paul says blameless, innocent, and without blemish. But it’s one of the hardest to conquer.
Philippians 2:14–18: Can the Godly Grumble?
24 juli 2018 |
min
Our grumbling is not insignificant to God. When we choose contentment in the Lord over complaining, we shine as lights in the world.
Written by Man, Spoken by God
21 juli 2018 |
min
The Bible is like no other book in the history of the world. Man wrote it, but God spoke it.
How to Misinterpret the Bible
17 juli 2018 |
min
Bible studies are weakened because few believe that there are right and wrong interpretations of the Bible.
The Bible’s Meaning Never Changes
14 juli 2018 |
min
God’s word alone will stand forever. From age to age, country to country, and reader to reader, God’s truth, as revealed in Scripture, remains the same.
Read to Discover Meaning, Not Create It
10 juli 2018 |
min
Those who come to a text without humility will only leave with their opinions. Those who come to the Bible to learn will leave with God’s truth.
Read Every Book with Humility
7 juli 2018 |
min
Pride opens the Bible and reads without reading. Humility opens the Bible and asks God to give insight.
The Golden Rule of Bible Reading
3 juli 2018 |
min
It is considered rude when we interrupt someone while they are speaking and tell them what they really mean. We must not do this to authors either.
What Does ‘Meaning’ Mean?
30 juni 2018 |
min
Great Bible study isn’t about being able to articulate how you think or feel about a text. The meaning of a text is defined by the author, not the reader.
Philippians 2:12–13: If God Is Sovereign, Am I Responsible?
26 juni 2018 |
min
If you use God’s sovereignty as an excuse for passivity and laziness towards your sin, you may not be his child.
Philippians 2:12–13: You’re Not Alone in Fighting Sin
23 juni 2018 |
min
Satan works day and night to blind us to the fact that God’s children are never alone in their fight against sin.
Philippians 2:12–13: We Are Saved and Being Saved
19 juni 2018 |
min
Salvation is rooted in the past, worked out in the present, and guaranteed in the future.
Philippians 2:12–13: How Obedient Christians ‘Produce’ Salvation
16 juni 2018 |
min
If God justifies us by grace alone through faith alone, what does it mean to work out our salvation?
Philippians 2:12–13: How to Work Out Your Salvation
12 juni 2018 |
min
Obedience is neither the rock upon which our salvation rests nor the optional ribbon placed upon eternal life. It is essential. And it is empowered by God.
Philippians 2:12–13: Obedience Is Not a Curse Word
9 juni 2018 |
min
To comply with God’s commands is to believe that God knows more than we do about what will ultimately make us happy.
Philippians 2:12–13: Empty Yourself to Serve Others
5 juni 2018 |
min
Christian self-denial is not truly self-denial. It is saying “no” to the lesser and impermanent for the better “yes” of eternity.
2 Corinthians 1:3–6: Give Away the Comfort You Receive
2 juni 2018 |
min
God doesn’t help us in our times of need so that we will keep it to ourselves. He comforts us so we can bring comfort to others.
2 Corinthians 1:3–6: Do You Know the God of All Comfort?
29 maj 2018 |
min
God promises rest for the weary, peace for the brokenhearted, and comfort for the restless. Do you know the God of all comfort?
Philippians 2:9–11: Is God an Egomaniac?
26 maj 2018 |
min
Christ’s work on the cross and subsequent resurrection not merely shows that he loved humanity. It proclaims that God loves his glory.
Philippians 2:9–11: You Will Bow Before Him
22 maj 2018 |
min
You have two options when it comes to Christ: submit to him joyfully now and gain your life, or submit to him begrudgingly later and lose it.
Philippians 2:9–11: Worthy Is the Lamb Who Was Slain!
19 maj 2018 |
min
You may not bow to him now. You may not bow to him next year. But a day draws near when every knee will bow before Jesus Christ.
Philippians 2:9–11: From Humiliation to Supremacy
15 maj 2018 |
min
Jesus ascended from earth to heaven, from lowliness to a throne, from humiliation to exaltation, from a cross to a crown.
Philippians 2:5–8: One Word to Describe Jesus’s Life
12 maj 2018 |
min
The Father and the Son were not in a Civil War to redeem humanity. They were in perfect harmony. The Father sent; the Son gladly went.
Philippians 2:5–8: God Became Human
8 maj 2018 |
min
God did not become an angel to save angels. But he did become fully human to save humans.
Philippians 2:5–8: Is Jesus Like-God or God?
5 maj 2018 |
min
If you see Jesus like you do Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, or Confucius, you do not know Jesus.
Philippians 2:5–8: Have the Mind of Christ
1 maj 2018 |
min
Many are willing to share in Christlikeness only as long as it doesn’t mean sacrifice. But Christlikeness led Christ to the cross.
Psalm 1:1–6: Some Pleasures Never Get Boring
28 april 2018 |
min
Happiness that is not permanent is not a joy that is truly satisfying.
Psalm 1:4–6: The Way of the Wicked Will Perish
24 april 2018 |
min
When you see horrendous crimes committed without adequate justice served, remember, the wicked will perish before the judgment of God.
Psalm 1:4–6: The Righteous Are Not the Perfect
21 april 2018 |
min
“Righteousness” has a double meaning in the New Testament. Do you know what those meanings are?
Psalm 1:3: The True Prosperity Gospel
17 april 2018 |
min
In all things, Christians prosper, because over all things, Christ reigns.
Psalm 1:3: Plant Yourself in God’s Word
14 april 2018 |
min
Many do not blossom with the beauty of Christlikeness because they are not rooted in the word of God.
Psalm 1:2: Memorize the Bible to Maximize Your Joy
10 april 2018 |
min
Memorizing God’s word puts heavenly treasure in the pockets of the mind and the heart.
Psalm 1:2: Do You Delight in Bible Reading?
7 april 2018 |
min
The word of God is not merely medicine for our sickly souls. To the born-again heart, it is food for our enjoyment and drink for our soul’s delight.
Psalm 1:1: How to Lose Your Happiness
3 april 2018 |
min
Those who say they want to be happy while they still indulge in sin do not really want to be happy.
Love Delights in Another’s Joy
31 mars 2018 |
min
Love does not rest until others participate in all that we have in Christ.
Philippians 2:3–4: Short-Term Loss for Long-Term Gain
27 mars 2018 |
min
Love makes huge sacrifices for the beloved. Because the joy of the beloved is our own joy.
Philippians 2:3–4: True Humility Ends in Glory
24 mars 2018 |
min
True humility bends low in service, gives to others at a cost to self, and receives a kingdom in the end.
Psalm 127:3–5: How to Rest in Parenting
17 mars 2018 |
min
Rest in parenting will not come from getting our children to nap during the day and sleep during the night. It comes from going to Jesus with your burdens.
Psalm 127:1–2: God Gives His Beloved Sleep
13 mars 2018 |
min
Jesus is not a fanatic CEO that needs you to render him anxious toil. He is a King who loves to give his beloved sleep.
Philippians 2:4: Look to the Interests of Others
10 mars 2018 |
min
Although Satan tries to persuade us otherwise, believing God when he tells us to look to others’ interests doesn’t force us to look away from our own joy.
Philippians 2:3: You Are Never Too High to Serve
6 mars 2018 |
min
All whispers of “I deserve” are silenced at the foot of the cross. Go there with your pride and be set free.
Philippians 2:1–2: Diversity Makes for the Best Unity
3 mars 2018 |
min
Christian unity is not Christian uniformity. It is a beautiful painting comprised of various colors.
Philippians 2:1–2: May All Divisions Cease
27 februari 2018 |
min
Jesus did not die so that we could merely tolerate one another. He died so that we would cherish one another.
Philippians 2:1–2: Five Incentives for Christian Unity
24 februari 2018 |
min
It is biblically illogical to think we can live a life worthy of the gospel and be indifferent to Christian unity.
Mark 3:1–6: What Grieves God?
20 februari 2018 |
min
It is not for lack of compassion that men perish, but for lack of a heart that delights in the God of all compassion because of hard and rebellious hearts.
Psalm 133:3: Don’t Rebuild Walls Christ Tore Down
17 februari 2018 |
min
Christ’s blood is the great adhesive that unites the church together across time, racial divides, and class distinctions.
Psalm 133:2: Christian Unity Is a Precious Gift
13 februari 2018 |
min
Unity among believers is not just a good thing or a normal thing. It is a God-given and sacred thing.
Unity Is the Church’s Perfume: Psalm 133:1
10 februari 2018 |
min
The church is crowned with love, clothed in Christ’s righteousness, and perfumed with Trinitarian unity.
Luke 18:18–27: Your Money May Keep You from Heaven
6 februari 2018 |
min
Many of us read that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God and think of millionaires. The rest of the world reads it and thinks of us.
Philippians 1:28–30: One Proof That You Are Saved
3 februari 2018 |
min
Satan tells us that all suffering is a curse and proof that we are not loved by God. But God tells us it is a gift to show us our salvation.
Philippians 1:27–28: Our Love Warns of God’s Wrath
30 januari 2018 |
min
Our love for one another in the face of persecution warns our opponents of the judgment to come.
Philippians 1:27–28: Stand Firm in Fearful Days
27 januari 2018 |
min
Standing firm in fearful days shows that you have promises in the gospel that death, nor loss, nor prison can steal.
Hebrews 5:7–9: How Did Jesus “Learn” Obedience?
23 januari 2018 |
min
If Jesus “learned obedience” and “was made perfect” does that mean he was ever disobedient and imperfect?
Hebrews 5:7–10: Jesus’s Prayer in His Darkest Hour
20 januari 2018 |
min
In his darkest hour, Jesus did not run from his Father, but boldly wept and cried aloud in trust before him.
Four Traits of a Life Worth Living: Philippians 1:27–28
16 januari 2018 |
min
While the world gropes in the dark for significance, our God has told us how to live the worthy life.
Philippians 1:27–28: What Does “Gospel” Mean?
13 januari 2018 |
min
We hear the word “gospel” used all the time. But what does it actually mean?
Philippians 1:27–28: The Constitution of Heaven
9 januari 2018 |
min
If you are Christ’s, your home address is not truly your home address. Live in the here and now as a citizen of your true country: heaven.
2 Corinthians 9:6–11: God Gives to Create Cheerful Givers
6 januari 2018 |
min
God is able to make all grace — not some grace — abound to you so that you may overflow in cheerful giving.
2 Corinthians 9:6–11: Do You Trust God with Your Money?
2 januari 2018 |
min
It is hard to say that we have trusted God with our lives when we do not trust him with our wallets.
2 Corinthians 9:6–11: Why Do You Give to the Church?
28 december 2017 |
min
God doesn’t want you to begrudgingly give. He wants to satisfy you with himself so that you would give cheerfully.
Philippians 1:20–26: How Do We Get to Heaven?
26 december 2017 |
min
God is sovereign over the ends and means of our salvation. Those who he has saved will continue to press on by the means of grace.
Luke 2:15–20: The Night Was Not Exactly Silent
21 december 2017 |
min
The night wasn’t silent because people were spreading the good news to others. Will we join them this Christmas?
Luke 2:8–14: Unto Us a Savior Was Born
19 december 2017 |
min
Is our Christmas more about Santa Claus and cookies or Jesus Christ and his cross?
Luke 2:1–7: God Sent His Son to a Stable
14 december 2017 |
min
The birth of Jesus is not a Greek myth nor a vision seen by a false prophet. It is a historical reality orchestrated by the Father.
Philippians 1:20–26: Should I Always Pursue My Own Joy?
12 december 2017 |
min
Those who make an impact in this world for Christ are those who labor for fruit and desire to be home with their Lord.
Philippians 1:20–26: Christian Hedonism Explained
7 december 2017 |
min
It is not until a Christian is convinced that death is truly gain that he truly begins to live.
Philippians 1:20–26: To Live Is Christ
5 december 2017 |
min
Your life will only be lived to the fullest when you’re convinced that dying and going to be with Christ is truly gain.
Philippians 1:20–26: Is Christian Hedonism in the Bible?
30 november 2017 |
min
Joy is not optional for all those who seek to glorify God with their lives.
1 Corinthians 6:19–20: Your Body Is a Temple
28 november 2017 |
min
The people of God are the dwelling place of God — and he cares how clean his house is.
1 Corinthians 6:19–20: God Bought Your Body
23 november 2017 |
min
It is foolish to reason that God only cares about our theology and not how we live out that theology.
1 Corinthians 6:19–20: Flee Sexual Immorality!
21 november 2017 |
min
Flee from sexual immorality to the Savior who holds all the joy and satisfaction you’re looking for.
1 John 1:5–10: How Do I Walk in the Light?
16 november 2017 |
min
Walking in the light is a matter of life and death for the Christian. If we don’t walk in the light now, we won’t later.
1 John 1:5–10: Fake Christians Walk in Darkness
14 november 2017 |
min
Fake Christians love darkness because it hides the sin that they love more than God.
Philippians 1:18–20: Honor Christ in Life or Death
9 november 2017 |
min
The honor of our Master is more important than our dreams, our ambitions, and our very lives.
Philippians 1:18–20: Saved Through Prayer
7 november 2017 |
min
If our theology stops us from praying for others’ salvation, we should reconsider our theology.
Philippians 1:18–20: The Happiest Book in the Bible
2 november 2017 |
min
Pain comes, suffering invades, and tears fall. But the Christian faith is one of inescapable joy.
Philippians 1:15–18: Four Ways to Defend the Gospel
31 oktober 2017 |
min
Peter charges us to be ready in season and out of season to give a defense of the hope that is in us. If asked to give a defense tomorrow, would you be ready?
Philippians 1:15–18: Why Was Paul Nice to Bad Preachers?
4 oktober 2017 |
min
Christians may, at times, have unchristian motives in their ministry. But they must not have a wrong gospel.
The Final Authority
3 oktober 2017 |
min
Cultures change. Opinions come and go. God’s word stands forever.
To the Glory of God Alone
3 oktober 2017 |
min
Tigers exist, butterflies exist, mountains exist, forests exist, music exists, humans exist, the solas exist, everything ultimately exists for the glory of God alone. 
Are the Five Solas in the Bible? Part 4: Through Faith Alone
3 oktober 2017 |
min
A sinner is justified by faith alone or he is not justified at all.
Are the Five Solas in the Bible? Part 3: In Christ Alone
3 oktober 2017 |
min
Muhammad will not save you. Buddha will not save you. Mary will not save you. The Pope will not save you. Parents, president, and yoga pose will not save you. Christ alone!
Are the Five Solas in the Bible? Part 2: By Grace Alone
3 oktober 2017 |
min
God’s grace alone makes the blind see, the lame walk, the dead live, and the sinner saved.
What Are the Five Solas? Are the Five Solas in the Bible? Part 1
3 oktober 2017 |
min
In an age of corruption and false teaching, the Protestant Reformers returned to the Scriptures.
Philippians 1:15–18: Do You Proclaim Christ from Envy?
26 september 2017 |
min
Envy of other Christians makes us suspicious of their gifts and ungrateful for our own. But because of Christ, we need not live or minister from rivalry.
Philippians 1:12–14: Conquer Fear by Seeing God
21 september 2017 |
min
What will make the timid speak, the cowardly stand, and the weak strong? Belief in their God.
Philippians 1:12–14: Prosperity Preachers
19 september 2017 |
min
Prosperity preachers would rob us of the opportunity to show the world that Christ is truly worth suffering and dying for.
Philippians 1:12–14: Suffering Can Advance the Gospel
14 september 2017 |
min
Bullets can stop pastors. Shackles can stop missionaries. But nothing can stop the gospel.
Ephesians 5:22–32: The Meaning of Marriage
12 september 2017 |
min
Marriage is a parable of the gospel, telling of Christ’s unrelenting love for his bride.
Philippians 1:9–11: Holiness Will Make You Happy
7 september 2017 |
min
You will never grow in holiness until you see that the ultimate essence of evil is the refusal to be happy in God.
Proverbs 22:13: How to Milk a Text Through Meditation
5 september 2017 |
min
Bible study without meditation is chewing without swallowing. When we recover the lost art, we will experience more joy in God and his word.
Philippians 1:9–11: God Has a Wonderful Plan for Your Life
31 augusti 2017 |
min
People say that God has a wonderful plan for their lives, often meaning that God will help them achieve their dreams. But God’s plans are far superior to our own.
Philippians 1:9–11: I Don’t Feel Blameless, Am I?
29 augusti 2017 |
min
Being blameless for the day of Christ doesn’t mean that we lived perfectly. It means that we lived a life hating our sin, seeking holiness, and trusting in Christ.
Philippians 1:9–11: Learn to Delight in Excellence
24 augusti 2017 |
min
Our neighborhoods need men and women who delight in beauty not pornography, excellence not crudity, Christ and not the world.
Philippians 1:9–11: Should I Tell Someone I Pray for Them?
22 augusti 2017 |
min
If Jesus tells us to go and pray to our heavenly Father in secret, should I ever tell others that I am praying for them?
Philippians 1:7–8: A Strange Evidence of Saving Faith
17 augusti 2017 |
min
When God saves someone, he not only gives them a new love for himself, but a new love for his people.
Revelation 22:3–5: Will There Be Slaves in Heaven?
15 augusti 2017 |
min
Slavery is a haunting skeleton in the closet of many nations of the world. But doesn’t the Bible say there will be slaves in heaven?
Philippians 1:6: Ask God to Do What He Promises
10 augusti 2017 |
min
God does not save us and send us to the couch. God calls his people to work out their salvation with fear and trembling and sends them out into a lost world.
2 Chronicles 30:1–12: Do My Actions Affect God’s Plans?
8 augusti 2017 |
min
Man’s will changes God’s plans like a gentle breeze changes the mountain.
Philippians 1:6: God Finishes What He Begins
3 augusti 2017 |
min
God didn’t get his people part way out of Egypt or halfway through the Red Sea. Our God completes what he begins.
John 13:8–11: Fight Sin as a Sinless Person
1 augusti 2017 |
min
We cannot fight sin with our hands tied in condemnation. Only when Christ has set us free can we truly conquer our sin.
Acts 4:27–28: Is God Sovereign over My Sin?
27 juli 2017 |
min
Bombs explode. Wars rage. Adultery devastates. With so much wickedness in the world, can we really say that God rules over everything?
Philippians 1:6: We Will Finish for He Is Faithful
25 juli 2017 |
min
Grace has brought us safe thus far, and grace will bring us home.
Philippians 1:6: The Most Important Day of Your Life
20 juli 2017 |
min
A day is drawing near that will swallow up all other days. Great days, bad days, slow days, fast days all lead unfailingly to judgment day.
Praise God for Answered Prayers
18 juli 2017 |
min
Christians are robbed of help and God is robbed of praise when we are too proud to ask others for prayer.
Hebrews 12:1–2: For the Joy Set Before Him
13 juli 2017 |
min
Anyone who tells us that following Jesus is easy doesn’t know what it means to follow him. The way is hard, but the path leads to life.
The Bible Will Teach You How to Think
11 juli 2017 |
min
Digging for treasure is harder than raking leaves. But those who aren’t afraid of callouses can find spiritual diamonds in God’s word.
Was Jesus Just a Teacher?
6 juli 2017 |
min
Many respect Jesus as a good moral teacher like Gandhi or Socrates. But the Jesus of the Bible will not allow you to make that claim.
Philippians 1:3–5: Thank God for Gospel Friendships
4 juli 2017 |
min
Few relationships in this life compare with gospel friendships. Better to have one Christ-centered companion than one million followers on social media.
Philippians 1:2: You Still Need Grace and Peace
29 juni 2017 |
min
We may outgrow childhood clothes and car seats, but as children of God, we never outgrow our need for grace and peace.
Philippians 1:1: Whom Does God Want to Govern His Church?
27 juni 2017 |
min
Kingdoms need a king. Children need parents. Sheep need shepherds. The Church needs servant leaders that point them to their King, Father, and Shepherd. 
Philippians 1:1: Is Every Christian a Saint?
22 juni 2017 |
min
Sainthood is not a trophy for the spiritually elite to win. It’s a free gift that every child of God receives.
Philippians 1:1: Do You Serve God or Man?
20 juni 2017 |
min
Slavery has horrible connotations in our day — and for good reason. But servitude to God gives life instead of taking it away.
The Good News of Christianity: Do You Know How to Be Saved?
15 juni 2017 |
min
The beggar and the prince, the African and the Asian, the wise man and the simpleton can all be saved by trusting in Jesus Christ.
The Good News of Christianity: Do You Know What God Has Done for You?
13 juni 2017 |
min
If you believe that the greatest thing that God has done for you is provide food for your table and health for your family, you are not a Christian.
The Good News of Christianity : Do You Know That You Were Born Dead?
8 juni 2017 |
min
It would be better to be born at the base of an erupting volcano than to be born spiritually dead.
The Good News of Christianity: Do You Know Your Greatest Problem?
6 juni 2017 |
min
Your biggest problem is not your old car, your mundane job, or your broken family. Your biggest problem is your sin.
The Good News of Christianity: Do You Know How to Find Joy?
1 juni 2017 |
min
Everyone wants a happily-ever-after, but few people are willing to give up sin and autonomy to get it.
The Good News of Christianity: Do You Know Why You Were Made?
30 maj 2017 |
min
We can’t live meaningful lives if we don’t know why we were created. If we think God merely made us to be wealthy, healthy, and happy, we don’t know why he made us.
Mark 8:34–38: Being Ashamed of Jesus Is Deadly
25 maj 2017 |
min
If no one in your life knows you are a Christian, you probably aren’t one. Heaven is only for those who were unashamed of their Savior on earth.
Mark 8:34–38: You Can’t Buy a Soul Out of Hell
23 maj 2017 |
min
Satan loves to remind us of all that we are missing out on if we follow Christ — except for hell.
Mark 8:34–38: Save Your Life by Losing It
18 maj 2017 |
min
The great irony: those who love their lives will lose it forever, while those who lose their lives will gain it. Death with Jesus offers more life than any luxury in this world.
Mark 8:34–38: What Does It Mean to Take Up Our Cross?
16 maj 2017 |
min
Following Jesus is not like following someone on Instagram. It doesn’t involve making a click; it involves taking up a cross.
Proverbs 26:4–5: How to See Jesus in Proverbs
11 maj 2017 |
min
The book of Proverbs is not a collection of fortune-cookie like wisdom. It’s a book available only through the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Proverbs 26:4–5: Four Ways to Become Wise
9 maj 2017 |
min
Wisdom is not something for the academic elite. It’s necessary for everyone who desires to follow God and live a joy-filled life.
Matthew 6:22–23: God over Money
4 maj 2017 |
min
Loving money over God is soul-suicide. Those who love money over God will be eternally poor, but those who love God over money will own the universe.
Psalm 8: We Will Reign with the Risen Christ
2 maj 2017 |
min
Combine all the authority that kings, presidents, and dictators have had throughout history, and it pales in comparison to Christians ruling with Christ in the world to come.
Psalm 8: Does Man Still Have Dominion?
27 april 2017 |
min
Mosquitos kill millions, massive floods destroy cities, earthquakes destroy countries. With the chaos of creation harming us, do humans really have dominion?
Psalm 8: Majesty in Meekness
25 april 2017 |
min
God conquers his foes by weak babies and rules the world with weak men. He is more likely to use your weaknesses for his glory than your strengths.
Psalm 8: God Wages War Through Our Weakness
20 april 2017 |
min
God conquers his foes with babies and rules his world through the frailty of man, all to demonstrate the splendors of his majesty.
Romans 8:18–23: Suffering Exposes Our Sin
18 april 2017 |
min
Wars rage, cancer lingers, and suffering remains so that we all might know how horrible sin really is.
2 Corinthians 4:16–18: Suffering Prepares Us to Enjoy God
13 april 2017 |
min
For God’s children, all suffering is light compared to the weight of the glory coming, and all affliction is temporary compared to eternal bliss.
Hebrews 12:6–11: Suffering Conforms Us to Christ
11 april 2017 |
min
Satan loves to lie to us in our suffering. He tells us that God must be against us if he would allow us to experience pain, the experience of discipline really proves that we are children.
2 Corinthians 1:8–9: Suffering Makes Us Depend on God
6 april 2017 |
min
If you who are evil know how to embrace your children when they cry, how much more will your heavenly Father embrace those who run to him in their pain?
Luke 13:1–5: Suffering Brings Us to Repentance
4 april 2017 |
min
When we suffer, we often cast ourselves as the victims. When Jesus was asked about suffering, he called a world of sinners to repent.
Revelation 4:10–11: How to Rejoice in Revelation
30 mars 2017 |
min
The final chapter in any book is often the best, and yet many Christians do not rejoice in Revelation because it can be hard to understand. In this lab, Pastor John helps us read the last pages of Scripture.
How to Read Revelation: Revelation 4:10–11
28 mars 2017 |
min
Revelation can be difficult to interpret. In this lab, Pastor John illustrates how to begin to understand the symbols, and apply them to life today.
Ephesians 6:23–24: Can Our Love Be Corrupted?
23 mars 2017 |
min
We can lose our love for one another. One comment, one moment, one interaction can put out the flame of our affection. But can our love for God be extinguished?
1 Peter 1–5: 1 Peter in 1 Sentence
21 mars 2017 |
min
Every Christian tastes and sees that God is good. Then we suffer and witness to a dying world, hoping that they might taste and see the same.
1 Peter 5:13–14: God’s Grace Creates a Family
16 mars 2017 |
min
Heartache, brokenness, and death may mark our biological families, but God’s grace creates a new family that death, disease, and disaster cannot shake. 
1 Peter 5:12: Stand Firm in Grace
14 mars 2017 |
min
The grace of God meets us more faithfully than the morning and strengthens us more ardently than our daily bread. We rest, labor, and stand firm in grace.
1 Peter 5:12: We Get Grace, God Gets Glory
9 mars 2017 |
min
God’s grace turns rebels into citizens, orphans into children, an adulteress into a sinless bride. We receive the grace, he receives the glory.
1 Peter 5:10–11: How Long Must I Suffer?
7 mars 2017 |
min
Our suffering can be so severe that all we can say is, “How long, oh Lord?” In those moments, God gently responds with, “Just a little while longer.”
1 Peter 5:10: The God of Amazing Grace
2 mars 2017 |
min
God’s grace is amazing because God is. His tenderness and compassion avalanche upon us from the peaks of his steadfast love and mercy. 
1 Peter 5:8–10: How to Fight the Devil
28 februari 2017 |
min
As Christians, we have often been trained to fight pride, lust, anxiety, laziness, and other sins. But do we know how to war with Satan?
1 Peter 5:8–9: Can Satan Devour Christians?
23 februari 2017 |
min
Satan is a fierce predator. He has devoured souls of men and women, children and the elderly. He hates none more than Christians. Can he destroy them?
1 Peter 5:8–9: Kept by God Day by Day
21 februari 2017 |
min
The grace of God saves us. The grace of God frees us. The grace of God enslaves us. The grace of God keeps us.
1 Peter 5:8: Stay Alert Against Satan
16 februari 2017 |
min
While the world sings sweet lullabies to try and destroy us, God calls us to joyful wakefulness. Our eternity hangs on how we respond.
1 Timothy 2:15: How Are Women Saved Through Childbearing?
14 februari 2017 |
min
Women are saved by faith in Christ. In what sense then, according to 1 Timothy 2:15, are they saved through childbirth?
1 Peter 5:7–9: Are You a Passive Christian?
9 februari 2017 |
min
The Bible is serious about two realities: God cares for, saves, and protects his people, and his people need to be alert, active, and aggressive against Satan and sin.
1 Peter 5:7–8: How Not to Battle Anxiety
7 februari 2017 |
min
Anxieties attack our faith and torment our peace. The question with anxiety is not whether it will come, but rather, how can I fight it when it does?
Romans 5:20–6:2: Do I Have Any Righteousness of My Own?
2 februari 2017 |
min
Righteousness is a big deal for every single person on the planet. In this lab, John Piper shows why Jesus being perfect on our behalf does not free us from pursuing perfection.
1 Peter 5:6–7: Four Reasons God Hates Pride
31 januari 2017 |
min
Pride not only multiplies the weight of our anxieties, but makes our loving Creator, our honorable King, our gracious God into our omnipotent enemy.
1 Peter 5:5: Clothe Yourself in Humility Daily
26 januari 2017 |
min
The world scratches and fights each other in order to be exalted. The church joyfully submits to each other in order to exalt their King.
1 Peter 5:4: Does God Reward Pastors?
24 januari 2017 |
min
Does God reward pastors for their service? And if so, doesn’t that contaminate the pure aims of loving others?
1 Peter 5:2–3: How Not to Lead a Church
19 januari 2017 |
min
The world’s CEOs often are ambitious, stern, and overworked. The church’s leaders need to be happy, holy, and humble.
1 Peter 5:1: Practice What You Preach
17 januari 2017 |
min
Pastors cannot be men who preach what others should practice, but do not practice what they preach.
Acts 16:19–31: What to Do When God Is Silent
12 januari 2017 |
min
Silence from family and friends is one thing, silence from God is another. But no matter how hard it is, we must trust that he is working all things for our good.
Acts 13:48: The Chosen Choose God
10 januari 2017 |
min
If God has not redeemed you, nothing will make you choose God over your sin. If God has chosen you, no scheme of Satan can keep you from choosing him.
Acts 13:48: Unconditional Election
5 januari 2017 |
min
Unconditional election means that God chose his people without them first meeting any conditions. God’s choice does not depend on our works, faith, or beauty, but rather his choice creates each in us.
Lamentations 5:21: God, Bring Me Back to You
3 januari 2017 |
min
When our thoughts have been unruly, our hearts hard, our deeds despicable, when we teeter from the devastation of sin and straddle the precipice of hell, cry out to God for mercy.
1 Peter 4:12–19: Six Parts of a Christian Worldview
29 december 2016 |
min
All thoughts are not created equal, all opinions are not valid, and no worldview matters but God’s.
1 Peter 4:19: Christians Never Need Revenge
27 december 2016 |
min
While the world threatens, the Christian serves. As the world imprisons, the Christian prays. When the world does evil, the Christian does good.
Luke 1:26–38: Seven Reasons to Worship on Christmas
24 december 2016 |
min
The baby lay in the manger and the man hung on the cross, that by his life and death we would be free to enjoy God forever.
Matthew 1:18–25: What Makes Christmas Merry?
22 december 2016 |
min
When a Christian Hedonist says, “Merry Christmas,” he means much more than a warm holiday with friends and family.
God’s Miraculous Conception: Matthew 1:18–21
20 december 2016 |
min
How Jesus Christ came to lay in the cradle, has massive implications for what he did on the cross.
Saved Through the Fire of Suffering: 1 Peter 4:17–18
15 december 2016 |
min
Although the world may send us into its furnace for not bowing our knees, we know that the Son of God is with us in the flames.
Christian, Your Suffering Is Not Eternal: 1 Peter 4:17
13 december 2016 |
min
No matter how bad your sufferings are in this life, rejoice that they can only cut so deep and last for so long.
1 Peter 4:17: God Is Working in Your Suffering
8 december 2016 |
min
It’s hard to hear in the moment that God is sovereign over our suffering, but in the long run it makes all the difference.
1 Peter 4:17: How Will Christians Be Judged?
6 december 2016 |
min
If the Father judged Jesus on our behalf, doesn’t that mean that we won’t be?
Unashamed: 1 Peter 4:16
1 december 2016 |
min
We know we should never be ashamed of Jesus. But when that coworker asks, or that relative puts us on the spot, we can be slow to own the name Christian.
1 Peter 4:15: Mind Your Own Business
29 november 2016 |
min
Non-believers often tell Christians to mind their own business. They may be more right than we might think.
1 Peter 4:15: Do You Suffer Because of Your Sin?
24 november 2016 |
min
The cross defangs the fatal bite of sin — but it can still have devastating consequences. Don't consider yourself to be a martyr when you suffer because of your sin. 
1 Peter 4:14: Would I Be Able to Endure Persecution?
22 november 2016 |
min
We read stories about Christians being horrifically persecuted for their love of Christ. We marvel at their endurance and secretly wonder: if I were in their place, would I endure? 
1 Peter 4:13: Suffer for the Joy Set Before You
17 november 2016 |
min
For the joy set before him, Jesus endured suffering. For the joy set before us, we must also.
1 Peter 4:12: Is Persecution Coming for Christians?
15 november 2016 |
min
Jesus was persecuted. Many in the early church were persecuted. Many Christians today are persecuted. You also will be persecuted.
Jeremiah 12:1: Can a Christian Complain to God?
10 november 2016 |
min
God invites us to cast our cares upon him because he cares for us. How can we do that honestly and yet not complain in a way that dishonors him?
Galatians 1:3–5 : Do You Feel God’s Grace and Peace?
8 november 2016 |
min
Those who know the horrors of war are thankful for peace. Those who understand justice get excited about grace. Christian, grace and peace are yours.
1 Peter 4:11: Do Your Gifts Glorify You or God?
3 november 2016 |
min
God gives gifts to his people to bless others. If you want to glorify God: steward your gifts, speak God’s words, and serve with God’s strength.
1 Peter 4:10–11 : Serve In God’s Strength, Not Yours
1 november 2016 |
min
When we speak, we speak in God’s power and with God’s words. When we serve, we serve in his power and point to his glory.
2 Corinthians 3:15–18: How Can I Change?
27 oktober 2016 |
min
Sin is a sticky, entangling web that traps and blinds those who live in it. But where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
1 Peter 4:10: What Is a Spiritual Gift?
25 oktober 2016 |
min
Spiritual gifts do not lift us above others, they empower us to lower ourselves in the service of others.
1 Peter 4:10: Your Gifts Are Meant for Others
20 oktober 2016 |
min
Birthday gifts have your name on them because they are meant for you. God’s new-birth gift has your name on it but is meant for others.
Seeing Is Believing: 2 Corinthians 4:6–7
18 oktober 2016 |
min
The God who spoke light into the world speaks light into our souls, opening our blind eyes and dawning new affections for him.
1 Peter 4:9: What Grumbling Says About God
13 oktober 2016 |
min
Few can endure being around grumblers. Heaven forbid that Christians, inheritors of the world, would be called complainers.
1 Peter 4:9: How to Be More Hospitable
11 oktober 2016 |
min
People can annoy us with their needs. Our selfishness transforms loved ones into inconveniences. But God calls us to more than begrudging hospitality. 
1 Peter 4:8: Only Love Can Cover Sin
6 oktober 2016 |
min
Others’ sin confronts us daily, and daily we must choose how to respond to it. Denial dismisses their sin, indifference ignores it, anger attacks it, bitterness buries it — love alone covers it.
Romans 11:33–36 : From Him, Through Him, To Him
4 oktober 2016 |
min
Psychologists cannot counsel him. Philosophers cannot instruct him. Billionaires cannot add to his treasures. He owns all, funds all, receives all. To him be praise forevermore.
1 Peter 4:7: A Lifeline for the Weak and Weary
29 september 2016 |
min
The world as we know it passes away, we must then be people who watch and pray.
1 Peter 4:7: Think Hard on Your Way to Heaven
27 september 2016 |
min
Sexuality, worldliness, Netflix, and all kinds of distractions compete daily for our thoughts. We cannot give our minds over to the enemy — we must think hard to the glory of God. 
1 Peter 4:7: Are We Living in the Last Days?
22 september 2016 |
min
We live in a peculiar age: battles rage but the war is won, spring dawns and summer looms, Christ came and is coming back.
Psalm 19:12–13 : Lord, Keep Me from Sin
20 september 2016 |
min
Even as Christians, sin still lingers in our shadow. How do we pray for the light of God’s grace to expel our darkness? 
1 Peter 4:6: Is There Any Hope for the Dead?
15 september 2016 |
min
The Bible says that the gospel was “preached to the dead” (1 Peter 4:6). Does this mean that someone can hear the gospel and repent after death?
1 Peter 4:5: God Will Deal with Your Enemies
13 september 2016 |
min
Jesus tells us to love our enemies, but how can we when real injustice is committed against us?
1 Thessalonians 3:11–13: What Does It Mean to Be Holy?
8 september 2016 |
min
Without holiness you will not see the Lord. Without knowing what holiness means you may never attain it. So what does it really mean to be holy?
1 Corinthians 15:58: Labor for the Lord Is Never Lost
6 september 2016 |
min
With calloused hands and sweaty brow, the Christian rests knowing that his labor in Christ is not in vain.
1 Corinthians 3:21–23 : A Proven Recipe for Humility
1 september 2016 |
min
Pride is a recipe for disaster. But God's luscious logic cooks the cuisine of humility.
1 Peter 3:21–22: Does Baptism Save You?
30 augusti 2016 |
min
“Baptism now saves you?” What in the world does 1 Peter 3:21 mean? 
1 Peter 4:3–4 : Show the World a Life Worth Living
25 augusti 2016 |
min
The Christian life is truly worth living. Following Jesus gives us the opportunity to show a dying world what real life looks like.
1 Peter 4:3–4: You Have Sinned Enough Already
23 augusti 2016 |
min
You’ve given your sins room and board for long enough. Evict them and follow Jesus into the light.
1 Peter 4:2: Do You Want What God Wants?
18 augusti 2016 |
min
We can live for our will or God’s will, or we could have our passions so transformed that we need not choose between the two.
1 John 2:18–19 : Who Are the Antichrists?
16 augusti 2016 |
min
The apostle John tells us that many antichrists are in the world. What value is there in learning about them?
Arm Yourself to Battle Satan: 1 Peter 4:1
11 augusti 2016 |
min
The enemy’s flaming darts and God’s Great Commission make spiritual warfare unavoidable, and spiritual pacifism suicidal. So, how do we arm ourselves for combat? 
Christ Died to Make Us Dead to Sin: 1 Peter 4:1
9 augusti 2016 |
min
Christ did not die to domesticate your sin and make it your pet. His death took the monster out back and killed it. 
1 John 2:19: Can a True Christian Fall Away from God?
4 augusti 2016 |
min
Once saved, always saved? If so, how do we explain friends, family, and even church leaders who walk away from the faith?
1 Peter 3:19–20: How Do You Decrypt Confusing Bible Verses?
2 augusti 2016 |
min
Finding spiritual gems in the Bible is hard work. How do we dig into a verse when we don’t know what it means?
Micah 7:7–9: How to Rise After We Fall into Sin
28 juli 2016 |
min
Our hearts break when we repay God’s faithfulness, kindness, and love with sin. What should we do after our spiritual adultery has left us broken, guilty, and distant from God?
Romans 15:8–9 : Why Did Jesus Come Into the World?
26 juli 2016 |
min
Jesus is the only human who ever chose to be born, so why did he come? The Bible’s answer may not be the same as yours.
Philippians 4:6–7: The Heart of Fearless Contentment
21 juli 2016 |
min
In this lab, Pastor John teaches us how to cultivate fearless faith.
Philippians 4:6–7 : Do Not Be Anxious About Anything
19 juli 2016 |
min
Anxiety hangs over many of our heads like a dark cloud. How do we break free from the fears and worries that follow us everywhere we go?
Deuteronomy 33:26–27 : Mine God’s Poetry for God’s Beauty
14 juli 2016 |
min
Some of the most beautiful aspects of who God is and what he does are buried in poetry in the Bible. Do we skip over it?
Isaiah 41:10: Are the Old Testament Promises Made to Us?
12 juli 2016 |
min
Did God bury promises to you in the Old Testament? Many of us apply Israel’s promises to ourselves today — but should we? 
A.P.T.A.T.: Practical Steps to Walk by Faith
7 juli 2016 |
min
What does it mean to walk by faith? Here are five steps for whatever temptation, challenge, or heartache you are facing.
1 Peter 3:18: Does the Bible Contradict Itself?
5 juli 2016 |
min
Certain verses in the Bible seem to contradict others. What should we do when come to one of those verses?
1 Thessalonians 5:9–11: Prepare Your Heart for Cancer
28 juni 2016 |
min
More than a third of you will have cancer at some point in life. Do you have a few verses to cling to when the diagnosis comes?
Do You Want God More Than Anything? 1 Peter 3:18
23 juni 2016 |
min
If you only believe in Jesus to get out of hell, you are not a Christian. True Christians want to be forgiven because the forgiven get to be with God.
Psalm 100: How Can We Obey from the Heart?
21 juni 2016 |
min
The hardest commands in the Bible are not the commands to serve, to abstain, or to forgive. They’re the commands to feel. How do we rejoice when we don’t feel any joy?
Psalm 100: The Keys to Knowing How to Live
16 juni 2016 |
min
Some Christians who know the most, love and do the least. So how exactly does right thinking move through our hearts to right feeling and doing?
1 Peter 3:17: Does God Will Sin Done Against Us?
14 juni 2016 |
min
We all carry wounds inflicted by others — the father who abandoned us, the friend who betrayed us, or the co-worker who lied about us. What part does God play in our pain?
1 Peter 3:15–16: Should We Want to Shame Unbelievers?
9 juni 2016 |
min
When the world mocks and despises us for our faith, we often want to lash back. God has a better way of shaming those who abuse his followers. 
1 Peter 3:15–16: Cleanse Your Conscience of Guilt
7 juni 2016 |
min
Guilt over sin makes quiet Christians who are full of shame. How can we cleanse our conscience so that we share more boldly?
1 Peter 3:15: Can You Defend Your Hope in Christ?
2 juni 2016 |
min
All Christians know non-Christians. Whether with co-workers, spouses, parents, or acquaintances, a critical question faces us daily: How do I give a defense for my faith?
1 Peter 3:14–15: Treasure Jesus More Than Safety
31 maj 2016 |
min
With terrorism, political instability, and social unrest, much of our culture is given to fear and anxiety. In the face of such realities, should Christians fear the things that the world does? 
James 3:17–18: What Does It Mean to Meditate?
26 maj 2016 |
min
Do you ever stop to meditate on the Bible? Do you even know what it means to meditate? Here’s a model to help you slow down and really think while you read.
1 Peter 3:14–15: Does Anyone Ever Ask About Your Hope?
24 maj 2016 |
min
When was the last time you were asked about your hope in Christ? The world will only ask us when they see something in us dramatically different from themselves.
1 Peter 3:14: How Does God Bless the Hurting?
19 maj 2016 |
min
God promises to bless Christians who suffer while living faithfully for his glory, whatever that suffering may be. But what is the blessing, and how does it come?
1 Peter 3:13: Would a Sovereign God Ever Harm Us?
17 maj 2016 |
min
If you are Christ’s, no one in this world can ultimately harm you. They can only serve God’s good purposes for you and bring you greater blessing.
1 Peter 3:10–12: The Key to Enjoying Your Life
12 maj 2016 |
min
Jesus did not die only to ransom you from hell. He died to ransom you from wasting your life here on earth.
1 Peter 3:9–12: Love Your Enemies for Your Own Sake
10 maj 2016 |
min
Should Christians be motivated by blessing when we love our enemies? And if we should be, how is that not works-based righteousness?
Colossians 2:13–14: The Heart of the Christian Faith
5 maj 2016 |
min
How would you describe the core of the Christian faith? Do you have a place you would turn in the Bible? Here are two verses that give us the good news.
1 Peter 3:8–9, Part 3: Those Who Suffer Receive a Blessing
26 april 2016 |
min
How does our future inheritance in heaven help us suffer well? The answer is one key to loving those who wrong and mistreat us.
1 Peter 3:8–9, Part 2: How Do We Obey Commands to Feel?
26 april 2016 |
min
We do not have immediate control over our feelings, so how do we obey commands to feel? Here are five places to start in pursuing changes in your personality.
1 Peter 3:8–9, Part 1: Bless Those Who Revile You
26 april 2016 |
min
We know we are supposed to love our enemies, to bless those who curse or revile us, but how do we do that? Where does that kind of heart and response come from? 
Psalm 67: God Blesses You to Bless the World
21 april 2016 |
min
Why does God love and bless his undeserving children like he does? These seven verses unlock several reasons, including one that should shape the direction and purpose of your life.
2 Timothy 2:8–10, Part 3: Election Gives Evangelism Power
19 april 2016 |
min
If God chooses some for salvation, why do we risk our lives to share the gospel? God’s sovereignty does not replace human effort in ministry; it fills it with power.
2 Timothy 2:8–10, Part 2: The Gospel Triumphs Through Suffering
14 april 2016 |
min
“The word of God is not bound.” Does that mean the word can work and spread apart from workers willing to suffer for it?
2 Timothy 2:8–10, Part 1: Remember Jesus in All You Do
12 april 2016 |
min
How often do you think about Jesus throughout the day? If we really understood what the Bible says about this Savior and King, he would come to mind much more often.
1 Peter 3:7, Part 4: Your Prayers Hang on Your Marriage
29 mars 2016 |
min
The Bible says that the way a man treats his wife might interfere with his prayer life. Is God not listening to you because you’re not listening to her?
1 Peter 3:7, Part 3: Your Wife Is an Heir of the Universe
24 mars 2016 |
min
If your wife loves Jesus, you are living with a queen of the universe, an heir of infinite glory. You should be amazed that you get to live with her.
1 Peter 3:7, Part 2: Honor Your Wife as the Weaker Vessel
22 mars 2016 |
min
Peter calls wives the weaker vessel. Is that out-dated analysis, offensive sexisim, or just generally true? The right answer will help men honor women well.
1 Peter 3:7, Part 1: Love Your Wife for the Lord’s Sake
17 mars 2016 |
min
Husbands are called to love their wives differently than wives love their husbands, but not completely differently. For instance, husbands submit in marriage, too.
John 11:1–6, Part 3: God’s Love Allows Pain and Loss
15 mars 2016 |
min
If Jesus loved Lazarus enough to let him die, what can we learn from this about love? Here are three important principles for how we should love one another.
John 11:1–6, Part 2: Why Did Jesus Let Lazarus Die?
10 mars 2016 |
min
Jesus loved Lazarus, and Jesus let Lazarus die. Is that possible? Love does not always look like what we expect.
John 11:1–6, Part 1: How Do We Read the Bible’s Stories?
8 mars 2016 |
min
The New Testament letters are some of most straightforward books in the Bible to interpret and apply. Should we read the other parts of the Bible, like the stories, differently?
1 Peter 3:1–6, Part 5: Husbands Should Be Heads, Not Idols
3 mars 2016 |
min
Submission is a controversial and sensitive subject in our society. As we define what it is, it is just as important for us to clarify what it is not.
1 Peter 3:1–6, Part 4: Holy Women Are Fueled by Hope
1 mars 2016 |
min
Underneath a wife’s submission to her husband must be the anchor of fearless hope in God. Where does that come from and where do we see it?
1 Peter 3:1–6, Part 3: Beauty Is Not in Makeup or Clothing
25 februari 2016 |
min
Women have often been deceived into thinking that beauty is about how they look or what they wear. But God defines beauty very differently.
1 Peter 3:1–6, Part 2: The Saving Power of a Fearless Wife
23 februari 2016 |
min
What hope does a wife have of saving her husband? In this lab, John Piper explains how fearlessness and purity might make all the difference for her husband’s faith.
1 Peter 3:1–6, Part 1: To Wives with Unbelieving Husbands
18 februari 2016 |
min
Some women are exiles within their own marriage. They want to follow Jesus, but their husbands have rejected the gospel they love.
2 Timothy 2:8–13: Saved by Grace, But Not Without War
16 februari 2016 |
min
Nobody who has been saved by Jesus will ever lose their salvation. But there’s a war still being waged for your soul, and you must fight to make it to glory.
1 Peter 2:21–25, Part 2: By His Wounds You Have Been Healed
11 februari 2016 |
min
When Jesus went to the cross, he bore our condemnation and purchased our healing. This lab explains what kind of healing and transformation we experience.
1 Peter 2:21–25, Part 1: Jesus Suffered to Keep You from Sinning
9 februari 2016 |
min
Jesus promised us that his followers would suffer unjustly for bearing his name. In this lab, John Piper explains how we return good for evil, even when it seems like evil is winning.
Proverbs 22:17–19, Part 3: God’s Bigger Purpose for Proverbs
4 februari 2016 |
min
You probably know the book of Proverbs as a collection of practical advice for God’s people. Proverbs itself, though, defines its purpose in a deeper, more significant way.
Proverbs 22:17–19, Part 2: Fix Your Eyes and Heart on the Bible
2 februari 2016 |
min
Our Bible reading is about much more than reading. In this lab, John Piper highlights two major principles for getting the most out of your time in God’s word.
Proverbs 22:17–19, Part 1: Enjoy, Apply, and Share
28 januari 2016 |
min
Proverbs is one of the most ruthlessly practical books in the whole Bible. In this lab, John Piper breaks down several lines, asking what they mean and how they relate to each other. 
2 Timothy 2:11–13: If We Are Faithless, He Remains Faithful?
26 januari 2016 |
min
“If we are faithless, he remains faithful.” In this lab, John Piper asks whether this popular phrase was written to be a comfort or a warning.
1 Peter 2:18–20, Part 3: God Will Reward Every Wrong Endured
21 januari 2016 |
min
Jesus says that those who follow him will suffer. In this lab, John Piper uncovers the promise that God will one day make every wrong right.
1 Peter 2:18–20, Part 2: Trust God When You Are Mistreated
19 januari 2016 |
min
What happens when someone is mistreated for doing good? In this lab, John Piper teaches us how to respond to and endure injustice.
1 Peter 2:18–20, Part 1: Slaves, Obey Your Masters
14 januari 2016 |
min
Slavery is a sensitive topic with a horrific history. So what does the Bible say for slaves? In this lab, John Piper explores one place where freedom is found.
1 Peter 2:13–17, Part 3: Fear God, Not the Government
12 januari 2016 |
min
What does freedom in Christ look like in subjection to a human government? In this lab, John Piper explains five key principles.
1 Peter 2:13–17, Part 2: Obey as People Who Are Free
7 januari 2016 |
min
How do servants of the King live and serve in a world with kings? In this lab, John Piper reveals the wonder of Christian freedom and the witness of being subject to human authorities.
1 Peter 2:13–17, Part 1: Live on Earth as Citizens of Heaven
5 januari 2016 |
min
Christians live in and are citizens of some nation on earth, under some government, but their final authority is in heaven. In this lab, John Piper explains how to live as exiles and refugees.
1 Peter 2:11–12, Part 3: Will Others Worship God Because of You?
31 december 2015 |
min
The Bible says that some will be saved through the witness of our faithfulness. In this lab, John Piper explains how our good deeds win others to Christ. 
1 Peter 2:11–12, Part 2: Silence the World with Good Deeds
29 december 2015 |
min
Many Christians today cannot stand being maligned, and so they cave to what the world wants. In this lab, John Piper helps us win the world by living differently.
Philippians 2:3–8, Part 2: Lower Yourself in Love Like Jesus
24 december 2015 |
min
The key to enduring suffering in service to others is putting on the humility of Christ. In this lab, John Piper walks us through the birth and death of Jesus.
Philippians 2:3–8, Part 1: Holy God Became Like Us
22 december 2015 |
min
Jesus Christ lived and died in every way for the sake of others. In this lab, John Piper calls us to do the same by looking at the wonder of Christmas.
John 1:14, Part 2: Glory Full of Grace and Truth
17 december 2015 |
min
“We have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father.” In this lab, John Piper helps us understand the glory we see at Christmas.
John 1:14, Part 1: God Lived Among Us
15 december 2015 |
min
Don’t let good things distract from ultimate things this Christmas. Our great reason for celebration is that God came to save us.
1 Peter 2:11–12, Part 1: Your Old Passions War Against You
10 december 2015 |
min
There are desires inside of you that want to destroy you. In this lab, John Piper teaches us to fight remaining sin in our own hearts.
1 Peter 2:9–10, Part 2: Why You Exist in the World
8 december 2015 |
min
Can you explain why you exist in the world? In this lab, John Piper explains the purpose of your life.
1 Peter 2:9–10, Part 1: God Treasures You, But Not Because of You
3 december 2015 |
min
When a person becomes a Christian, they take on an entirely different identity, the pinnacle of which is being God’s prized possession.
James 5:19–20, Part 2: Five Truths About Eternal Security
1 december 2015 |
min
In this lab, John Piper deals with the security of every believer, explaining how God keeps his children from falling away.
James 5:19–20, Part 1: Bringing Back a Wandering Believer
26 november 2015 |
min
Some of the most heartbreaking moments in a Christian’s life are watching other believers wander away from the truth. In this lab, John Piper tackles a couple verses that help us understand a Christian’s identity and give us great hope in pursuing a wandering brother or sister in Christ.
1 Peter 2:4–8, Part 2: They Were Destined to Disobey God
24 november 2015 |
min
God predestined some, in his infinite mercy, to hear the gospel and believe. And he predestined others to disobey and reject the good news. In this lab, John Piper leads us carefully word by word into one of the most difficult verses and truths in all the Bible, ending with nine summary thoughts.
1 Peter 2:4–8, Part 1: Come to the Man Rejected by Men
19 november 2015 |
min
Those who follow Jesus should expect to be rejected by the world. But their rejection will not be the last word. In this lab, John Piper traces a new word picture and several Old Testament quotations to show why all who come to Christ and embrace rejection with him will also receive eternal life.
1 Peter 2:1–3, Part 2: A Remedy for Envy
17 november 2015 |
min
The new birth produces love in every true believer in Jesus Christ, and it also weans us off our old sinful desires, like envy. But we have to be able to spot them. In this lab, John Piper zeros in on several common iniquities, and explains how we wield the word of God against them.
1 Peter 2:1–3, Part 1 : Spiritual Growth Is Not Optional
12 november 2015 |
min
God is not done with his work when we first believe and are saved. He intends day by day to make us into what we already are in Christ. Spiritual growth is not optional or marginal in the Christian life. Every person that truly believes in Christ is being increasingly transformed into his likeness.
Hebrews 13:5–6: God Will Never Forsake You
10 november 2015 |
min
The love of money — a craving for money as the source of our security — is an epidemic in our world, and maybe especially in our nation. So how do we kill the craving within us? In this lab, John Piper models what it means to fight temptation with the promises of God.
1 Peter 1:22–25, Part 2: We Cannot Love Without Hope
5 november 2015 |
min
Where do we find the strength we need to truly love the people in our lives? In this lab, John Piper looks at two verses in 1 Peter that describe our new birth, and the affects it has on our earthly relationships. True love only proceeds from genuine hope, which only comes from the word of God.
1 Peter 1:22–25, Part 1: How God Purifies Our Souls from Sin
3 november 2015 |
min
How does the faith in Jesus by which we were saved relate to the new life in Jesus for which we were saved? How do we pursue purity by grace, and not just our own resolve or discipline? In this lab, John Piper pulls apart the various things that happen when we’re born again.
1 Peter 1:20–21: Jesus Christ, the Beginning and the End
29 oktober 2015 |
min
Lots of people identify Jesus as their Lord and Savior. But do they live in way that also says he is their Treasure? In this lab, John Piper uncovers a couple of precious truths about our infinitely valuable Jesus. There are at least two paths in these verses to grow our love for and hope in him.
1 Peter 1:17–19: Fear Treating God as Trash
27 oktober 2015 |
min
Do you fear God? The Bible seems to be confusing about fear. In some places, God calls us to live in fear. Elsewhere, he says he’s delivered us from fear. In this lab, John Piper focuses on 1 Peter 1:17–19, but pulls in lots of verses to help us understand what it means for us to fear God.
1 Corinthians 15:9–10, Part 3: Grace Supplies Strength for Today
22 oktober 2015 |
min
If grace empowers us to live like Christ, how do we access that grace day after day? What does it mean to live in the strength that God supplies? In this lab, John Piper unpacks a life sustained by faith in God’s future grace, where God’s power meets our needs for his glory moment by moment.
1 Corinthians 15:9–10, Part 2: Grace Empowers the Best Work
20 oktober 2015 |
min
For many, the message of grace means the end of all effort. But the Bible will not let us settle for that kind of Christian life. In this lab, John Piper connects key texts to inspire real, consistent, passionate effort to live like Jesus today. The grace that saves us also empowers change in us.
1 Corinthians 15:9–10, Part 1: Grace Redeems the Worst Pasts
15 oktober 2015 |
min
God’s grace rescued one of the worst sinners in history, a man who by his own admission was a persecutor, blasphemer, and murderer. Paul’s story gives every sinner hope. In this lab, John Piper defines grace and explains how it meets us in the midst of our brokenness and rebellion.
1 Peter 1:13–16, Part 2: Put Away Ignorant Passions
13 oktober 2015 |
min
All of us have remaining sin still inside of us making war against our souls. In this lab, John Piper looks at strategies for bringing our hearts and lives further and further into conformity to God and his word. We need to see the relationship between what we know, what we feel, and how we live.
1 Peter 1:13–16, Part 1: Think Hard for the Sake of Your Heart
8 oktober 2015 |
min
Hope is a human emotion, and the Bible commands us to have it. So how do we pursue it if we do not feel it? In this lab, John Piper explains how God has wired the relationship between the mind and the heart. Scripture tells us that biblical thinking serves passionate hoping.
1 Peter 1:10–12: The Immeasurable Value of Grace
6 oktober 2015 |
min
We’ll never be able to estimate the value of the grace God has shown us as sinners. In this lab, John Piper highlights the preciousness of our salvation by looking at three groups of people: prophets, preachers, and angels. Each saw the grace Jesus brings, and responded in their own way. 
1 Peter 1:6–9, Part 2: Love by Faith, Not by Sight
1 oktober 2015 |
min
Do you love Jesus? A genuine affection for and devotion to Jesus is a miracle made possible only by God’s work. In this lab, John Piper looks at the affect of the new birth on our heart’s response to Christ. He also asks how the promise of God’s glory in the future affects our lives today.
1 Peter 1:6–9, Part 1: God Gives Us Joy in Grief
29 september 2015 |
min
What role do trials play in the Christian life? In this lab, John Piper explains a hard, but beautiful truth. God writes hardship and suffering into every believer’s story for the sake of their faith. He wants to secure and deepen our joy in himself, and so he carries us through various trials.
Luke 7:36–50, Part 2: God’s Love for the Worst
24 september 2015 |
min
Who will love Jesus more, the one who has been forgiven much or the one who has been forgiven little? If so, why do we not sin more? In this lab, John Piper tackles another difficult question raised by Jesus. His answer helps us understand Jesus’s words and cultivate a deeper love for him.
Luke 7:36–50, Part 1: Forgiveness Leads to Love
22 september 2015 |
min
What do you do when a verse in the Bible (even words from Jesus himself) seem to contradict core beliefs at the heart of Christianity? In this lab, John Piper models a way forward with difficult texts, not ignoring the problem, but digging deeper to find the harmony with the rest of Scripture.
1 Peter 1:3–5, Part 2: God’s Power Will Guard You
17 september 2015 |
min
God is guarding an infinitely valuable inheritance for you in heaven, and guarding you through faith to make sure you receive it. In this lab, John Piper pulls parts several implications from the new birth, explaining the new hope we have, and the sovereign hands that hold us.
1 Peter 1:3–5, Part 1: Born Again to a Living Hope
15 september 2015 |
min
According to the Bible, every believer in Jesus Christ is born a second time by the Spirit. In this lab, John Piper looks at this beautiful and spectacular mystery, asking what it means and how it happens. He also draws out the implications of serious study of the Bible for our worship.
1 Peter 1:1–2, Part 3: Bought with Blood for Obedience
10 september 2015 |
min
The Bible stabilizes us in the storms of life by reminding us who we are. In this lab, John Piper highlights our unfathomable relationship to God — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — all in the very first words of Peter’s letter. God has ransomed us, set us apart from the world, and made us new.
1 Peter 1:1–2, Part 2 : Known by God Before You Were Born
8 september 2015 |
min
When did God know you would be his adopted son or daughter? Peter says that our election is “according to the foreknowledge of God.” In this lab, John Piper asks what it means for God to foreknow us, and then explores the relationship between our election and God’s foreknowledge. 
1 Peter 1:1–2, Part 1: A Letter to Exiles
3 september 2015 |
min
Peter wrote a letter to Christians facing massive opposition and even persecution for their faith. These believers refused to join in the world’s rebellion against God, and they were mocked and rejected for it. In this lab, John Piper begins a new series through this hope-filled letter to exiles.
Galatians 6:12–15, Part 2: Crucified to the World
1 september 2015 |
min
What does it mean for us to die to the world or for the world to die to us (Galatians 6:14)? In this lab, John Piper explains what happens when we belong to Jesus. What kind of new creation are we, and what does that mean for our lives? Piper pulls in several texts to answer difficult questions.
Galatians 6:12–15, Part 1: Law-Keeping Cannot Save You
27 augusti 2015 |
min
People by nature want to boast in their own abilities, efforts, and achievements. Therefore, the cross of Christ is an offense to everyone. In this lab, John Piper looks at why we resist the message of the cross, as well as what the good news of the gospel says to our self-righteousness.
Psalm 141:1–4: Pray for God to Satisfy You
25 augusti 2015 |
min
When we ask God to incline our hearts, can he do it? In this third lab, John Piper asks a couple of hard questions about what we pray when we pray. Are we hypocrites to pray for our mouths and behavior even when our hearts fail? We need God to meet us at every level of our lives.
Psalm 141:1–4: Pray for God to Guard You
20 augusti 2015 |
min
Prayer is vital for the fight to be more like Jesus. In this lab, John Piper looks at prayer in the Bible that models the pursuit of purity. All of our effort in the pursuit of purity and holiness rests on the power and favor of God to guard us from evil.
Psalm 141:1–4: Pray for God to Meet You
18 augusti 2015 |
min
We learn to pray by reading the prayers in the Bible. This short series will look at David’s prayer in Psalm 141. In the first lab, John Piper asks why we pray for God to come. God is everywhere all the time, so what would it even mean for him to come to you today?
Psalm 147:10–11: What Will Please God?
13 augusti 2015 |
min
What kind of heart and faith pleases God? In this lab, John Piper looks at several texts to try and understand what it means for us to fear God. How can we be terrified of God and still find hope in him at the same time?
Romans 9:30–33: The Great Antidote to Shame
11 augusti 2015 |
min
Has God’s word of promise failed because so many in Israel have failed to believe and receive it? In the last lab in this Romans 9 series, John Piper looks at a second major piece of Paul’s argument for the faithfulness of God. He also summarizes what we’ve learned from the whole chapter.
Romans 9:24–29, Part 2: Partakers of God’s Promises
6 augusti 2015 |
min
When did God decide to include the nations in his chosen people? The apostle Paul cites Old Testament passages to show that God always intended to bring Gentiles into his family. In this lab, John Piper explores Paul’s use of the Old Testament to give us outside of Israel hope.
Romans 9:24–29, Part 1: The Circumcision of the Heart
4 augusti 2015 |
min
How could God be faithful to his promises if so many in Israel have fallen away, rejected the Messiah, and not been saved? In this lab, John Piper uncovers the next progression in Paul’s argument for God’s trustworthiness: the Gentiles are included as children in God’s invincible plan and promises.
Romans 9:22–23, Part 3: Jonathan Edwards and His Angry God
30 juli 2015 |
min
If people’s hearts are ultimately governed by God, how can God find fault with their hardness and rejection? In this lab, John Piper looks to Jonathan Edwards to understand why the judgment of God is essential for our fullest knowledge of him, and therefore our fullest enjoyment of him.
Romans 9:22–23, Part 2: The Ultimate Purpose of the Universe
28 juli 2015 |
min
Why would God prepare some people for wrath and destruction? It’s one of the biggest, weightiest questions in all the Bible. In this lab, John Piper uncovers the purpose above every other purpose in the universe, and points to the role wrath plays in God’s bigger design.
Romans 9:22–23, Part 1: God Wants to Show His Wrath
23 juli 2015 |
min
John Piper says, “In all the Bible, there are no more weighty, or ultimate, or difficult words than Romans 9:22–23.” These verse tackle the issues of God’s sovereignty and God’s wrath. How can God judge those whom he has hardened? 
Romans 9:20–21: Why Have You Made Me This Way?
21 juli 2015 |
min
It’s in the nature of us to question our Creator. Why did you make me like this, and not like him or him? Why did you make him like that, and not like me? Why do some believe the good news, and others reject it? In this lab, John Piper explores the relationship between the Potter and his clay.
Romans 9:20: Who Are You to Question God?
16 juli 2015 |
min
Certain truths about God in the Bible are confusing and even troubling to some. In this lab, John Piper corrects one way of questioning God, and encourages another. Questions are welcome, even necessary part of the Christian life, but they must be offered to God with the right attitude.
Romans 9:19: None Can Resist God
14 juli 2015 |
min
If God was governing Pharaoh, how could God hold Pharaoh responsible? Isn’t God the guilty one? In this lab, John Piper begins to unfold an answer to one of the Bible’s most difficult questions. If God is sovereign over us, even our sin, why are we held accountable for it?
John 15:12–15, Part 3: We Are Friends, Not Slaves
9 juli 2015 |
min
If you believe in, follow, and treasure Jesus Christ, he calls you his friend. Last time, we asked how we know if we are his friends. In this lab, John Piper reveals five one-sided ways Jesus befriends and loves us that we could never reciprocate.
John 15:12–15, Part 2: Are You a Friend of Jesus?
7 juli 2015 |
min
Are you a friend of Jesus? How do you know? In this lab, John Piper looks again at John 15 to see what kind of confidence we can have that Jesus loves us and died for our sins. He looks closely at one two-letter word that makes all the difference.
John 15:12–15, Part 1: Love Lays Down His Life
2 juli 2015 |
min
What does it mean to be a friend of Jesus? In this lab, John Piper begins a series of three labs focused on friendship with Jesus. Jesus loves you with the greatest possible love and paid the ultimate price to have you — a friendship like no other.
Romans 9:14–18, Part 5: God Exalted Him to Crush Him
30 juni 2015 |
min
Paul defends God’s freedom to mercifully save or righteously harden in Romans 9:14–18. In this lab, John Piper looks at Pharaoh as an example from the Old Testament. Can God be just in hardening Pharaoh? And is mercy or judgment a greater goal in the mind of God?
Romans 9:14–18, Part 4: God Has Mercy on Whom He Wills
25 juni 2015 |
min
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Saved Not by Human Will or Effort: Romans 9:14–18, Part 3
23 juni 2015 |
min
If God is as big and sovereign as we have seen so far in Romans 9, that must have implications for us. In this lab, John Piper explores the question of human free will by examining the absolute sovereignty of God. He also points to a concrete example elsewhere in the New Testament.
Romans 9:14–18, Part 2: God Acts for the Sake of His Glory
18 juni 2015 |
min
Many in Paul’s day were accusing God of being unrighteous in electing some and not others. In this lab, John Piper explains what the righteousness of God is, showing his definition from several texts. In doing so, he shows that God indeed does all he does for the glory of his own name.
Romans 9:14–18, Part 1: Is God Just to Choose Some?
16 juni 2015 |
min
God’s unconditional election causes many to say that he must be unrighteous. He can’t choose some and not others, and be good and just. In this lab, John Piper begins to address this objection by studying the surface structure of Paul’s argument.
Romans 9:9–13, Part 3: The Mystery of Election
11 juni 2015 |
min
What did it mean for God to “love” Jacob and “hate” Esau, even before they were born? How can God elect some and still be good? In this lab, John Piper narrows in on the question of election, and why it’s good news for those who will believe.
Romans 9:9–13, Part 2: Why God Chooses Whom He Chooses
9 juni 2015 |
min
God’s electing love is one of the most challenging realities in the Bible. In this lab, John Piper digs down underneath the doctrine of election to try and understand why God chooses who he chooses. How do the true sons and daughters of God become his children?
Romans 9:9–13, Part 1: Jacob I Loved, But Esau I Hated
4 juni 2015 |
min
In Romans 9, Paul wants to show us why we should believe in God’s unconditional election. Isaac and Ishmael were examples in the previous verses, and now Jacob and Esau are presented as better examples. In this lab, John Piper highlights the similarities and differences between these brothers.
Romans 9:6–8 : God’s Promises Never Fail
2 juni 2015 |
min
God made massive promises to Israel, but much of Israel has rejected the Christ. How, then, can we trust the promises of God to us today? In this lab, John Piper looks at promises God made to Israel in the Old Testament, how they are being fulfilled, and the implications for us.
Romans 9:1–5, Part 3: Chosen by God, Cut Off from Christ
28 maj 2015 |
min
The crisis in the first verses of Romans 9 is the unbelief of Israel, God’s chosen people. How can we trust God’s promises to us, if his promises to Israel did not come true? In this lab, John Piper wrestles with the tragedy of Israel turning away from God after everything they have been given.
Romans 9:1–5, Part 2: Unending Joy and Unceasing Anguish
26 maj 2015 |
min
The Christian life is an undeniably hard, yet gloriously satisfying life. How is it that we can be unbelievably heartbroken over the lost in our lives and unshakably happy in the promises of God all at the same time? In this lab, John Piper digs at the root of this emotional mystery.
The Word of God Has Not Failed: Romans 9:1–5, Part 1
21 maj 2015 |
min
Romans 9 potentially creates a massive problem for the glorious promises of Romans 8. In this lab, John Piper begins a series through this difficult, but critical chapter by explaining the crisis of unbelieving Israel and the sure hope of the new people of God in the word of God.
Philippians 4:19–20: God Will Supply Your Every Need
19 maj 2015 |
min
God exalts himself by serving us, not by having us serve him, and that sets him apart from all the gods. In this lab, John Piper shows why we should never think we have served God as though he needed anything. He ends by asking if we can serve God at all.
Psalm 50:8–15: God Does Not Need You
14 maj 2015 |
min
Why did God make human beings? Was it because he needed something that he didn’t already have? This series of labs asks what sets our God apart from all others. In this lab, John Piper asks how we can ever repay God for all he’s done for us.
Isaiah 55:6–9: God Will Abundantly Pardon
12 maj 2015 |
min
The God of the Bible is not like any god of any other religion. This series of labs asks what sets our God apart from all the alternatives. In this lab, John Piper looks at the beauty of an infinitely high and holy God stooping to forgive and receive sinners like us.
Isaiah 64:1–4; 46:1–4: God Works for Those Who Wait
7 maj 2015 |
min
The Bible says several times that our God is utterly unique among all the gods in the world and in history. But what makes him so unique? In this lab, John Piper begins a series looking at key texts for understanding why there is no god like our God. 
Romans 1:18–23: What Can Be Known About God
5 maj 2015 |
min
The Bible says that the whole world already knows God, but also says that much of the world does not know him. How does someone know him, and yet not know him? In this lab, John Piper explores this difficult, but critical tension and commissions us into the world to speak the gospel. 
Matthew 6:24–34, Part 3: Your Father Knows What You Need
30 april 2015 |
min
God wants to comfort and stabilize the anxious with truth. What truths calm our fears? In Part 1, John Piper identified nine arguments against our anxieties. In Part 2, he covered the first five. In this lab, he covers the last four, and highlights six lessons for Bible reading.
Matthew 6:24–34, Part 2: Do Not Be Anxious About Tomorrow
28 april 2015 |
min
When you think about the future, what makes you most anxious? Jesus gives us plenty of reasons not to fear. In Part 1 of this series, John Piper identified nine arguments against our anxieties. In this lab, he slows down over the first five to highlight how they each help us.
Matthew 6:24–34, Part 1: Nine Arguments Against Anxiety
23 april 2015 |
min
This three-part series of labs takes on anxiety by studying Matthew 6:24–34. If the Bible is going to effectively speak to our anxious hearts, we need to learn how to read it well. In this lab, John Piper lays out the arguments and gives three short lessons for our daily Bible reading.
Hebrews 10:32–35: A Better and Abiding Possession
21 april 2015 |
min
The gospel shines most brightly when Christians rejoice in the midst of really painful, even unjust suffering. In this lab, John Piper looks at Hebrews 10 to understand how we cultivate the kind of joy that can endure anything and that frees us to love and serve radically.
Romans 12:19–20: Vengeance Is Mine
14 april 2015 |
min
We all have been sinned against, in large or small ways. The Bible calls us not to avenge ourselves, but to entrust the pain and offense to God, who judges justly. In this lab, John Piper reminds us of the promise that God will repay every wrong ever committed against us.
Hebrews 11:24–26: The Fleeting Pleasures of Sin
9 april 2015 |
min
Hebrews 11 calls us to look to God’s people who have gone before us to learn how to walk by faith. In this lab, John Piper highlights the life of Moses, who preferred the reward he had with God more than all the riches of Egypt.
2 Thessalonians 2:9–12: They Refused to Love the Truth
7 april 2015 |
min
The Bible is clear that people are perishing in rebellion against God. One of the most important questions we can ask is why people perish, and how we can avoid that fate. In this lab, John Piper looks at the relationship between what we believe and what we love in determining our eternal destiny.
Luke 12:32–34, Part 2: Seek the Treasure That Will Not Fail
26 mars 2015 |
min
“Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” What we treasure has massive implications for the health and security of our hearts. In this lab, John Piper explains why treasure in heaven will satisfy us more than any other, and shows us the pathway to more of the joy found in Jesus.
Luke 12:32–34, Part 1: Sell the Treasure That Will Not Last
24 mars 2015 |
min
Many people are afraid to give because they’re afraid they won’t have enough themselves or that they’ll miss out on something in the future. In this lab, John Piper highlights the liberating promise that God is a providing shepherd, father, and king. Therefore, we can give freely and generously.
2 Timothy 2:24–26, Part 2: God’s Agents of Repentance
19 mars 2015 |
min
God makes the objects of the miracle of repentance agents of the miracle of repentance. In Part 1 of this two-part series, John Piper established that it is God who decisively brings repentance for any sinner. Now, he asks what role, if any, we have in bringing about that repentance for others.
2 Timothy 2:24–26, Part 1: God May Grant Repentance
17 mars 2015 |
min
There is war happening for your soul. On one side, Satan is scheming to enslave you to sin and blind you to the beauty of God. But God, by his power, is able to lead you to faith, repentance, and freedom. How is the war won? John Piper looks at several key verses in this lab.
2 Corinthians 4:4–6: The Light of the Gospel of the Glory of Christ
12 mars 2015 |
min
What happened when you were saved? While Satan did everything he could to blind you to the beauty of Jesus Christ, God broke through in marvelous light, and you saw, and you believed. In this lab, John Piper highlights critical parallels between two key verses to explain the miracle of conversion.
Matthew 22:15–21: Render to Caesar
10 mars 2015 |
min
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Hebrews 3:12–14, Part 2: Exhort One Another Every Day
5 mars 2015 |
min
God has appointed other believers as one of the primary means of our perseverance. In this lab, John Piper explains how sin wages war against our souls, and how God equips us with weapons for the battle. We will see that this fight is not one we should fight alone. 
Hebrews 3:12–14, Part 1: Take Care, Brothers
3 mars 2015 |
min
When you come across an if/then statement, restate the condition and study the implications. For instance, can someone who has truly been saved fall away from the faith? John Piper answers in this lab.
Romans 8: The Big Picture
26 februari 2015 |
min
John Piper has completed thirty labs working verse-by-verse through Romans 8. In this last lab, he sums up all that we have learned and explains how the highest points relate to each other. We need to be regularly stepping back in our Bible reading to see the bigger picture.
Romans 8:38–39: Nothing Can Separate Us from God’s Love
24 februari 2015 |
min
Romans 8 lands on the note of God’s unstoppable, unshakeable love for us in Christ. Nothing — however dark or hard — can separate us from him. In this lab, John Piper reveals the love of God for us, and calls us all to love one another in response to this great love.
Romans 8:35–37: We Are More Than Conquerors
19 februari 2015 |
min
We learn a lot about the Bible when the Bible quotes itself. In this lab, John Piper looks at Paul’s use of Psalm 44 to see how we are more than conquerors in all our suffering. Understanding God’s love for us in Christ completely changes how we think about hard things in this life.
Romans 8:33–34 : It Is God Who Justifies
17 februari 2015 |
min
Satan is an accuser (Revelation 12:10), but Jesus disarmed him at the cross. In this lab, John Piper explains how the work of Christ wars against and defeats Satan’s schemes to accuse and condemn us. Are you able to wield the sword of Paul’s promises against the evil one?
Romans 8:31–32: Who Can Be Against Us?
12 februari 2015 |
min
God is for you, and therefore no one can defeat you. God gave his Son, so he will most definitely give you all things. This lab looks at a couple powerful rhetorical questions. John Piper searches the truths behind Paul’s questions to find massive rocks under the Christian’s life. 
Romans 8:30: Predestined, Called, Justified, Glorified
10 februari 2015 |
min
A promise as mind-blowing as Romans 8:28 needs massive faith-sustaining truth underneath it. Romans 8:30 lays out a process in which God exalts Christ by bringing ungodly people to glory. In this lab, John Piper offers assurance in God’s invincible plan of salvation.
Romans 8:29: Conformed to the Image of Christ
5 februari 2015 |
min
God’s purpose in creation and redemption is to have a family of children conformed to the image of his Son. But how does that happen in me? In this lab, Pastor John explains the ways in which we are made like Jesus
Romans 8:29: Foreknown by God
3 februari 2015 |
min
The phrase “foreknown by God” has caused significant controversy and conflict within Christianity. Did God simply know ahead of time that we would believe, or did he choose who would believe? In this lab, John Piper explains as he tackles the next verse in Romans 8.
Romans 8:28, Part 3: Called According to God’s Purpose
29 januari 2015 |
min
When God calls a man or woman, what happens? In this lab, the third of three labs focused on Romans 8:28, John Piper draws in several other verses to try and understand the call of God. He explains why those who love God should rest secure in his sovereign care.
Romans 8:28, Part 2: Do You Love God?
27 januari 2015 |
min
The Bible makes promises to those who love God. But how do we know if we do? In this lab, John Piper digs into the relationship between saving faith and loving God. He goes on to show why and how God works all things for good for those who love him.
Romans 8:28, Part 1: All Things Work Together for Good
22 januari 2015 |
min
As God’s chosen child, all of your present suffering is serving your future glory.
Romans 8:26–27 : The Spirit Helps Us in Our Weakness
20 januari 2015 |
min
These two verses are two of the hardest in Romans 8. John Piper asks two important questions to uncover how the Holy Spirit helps us in our weaknesses. He shows how God — all three persons — is active in helping and keeping us through the hardest things in life.
Romans 8:22–25: The Redemption of Our Bodies
15 januari 2015 |
min
Knowing that the whole creation, including us, is suffering because of the corruption of sin, what hope can we have that things will get better? In this lab, John Piper talks about the tensions we feel as we strive to believe God’s promises while sometimes suffering greatly.
Romans 8:18–21: The Freedom of the Glory of the Children of God
13 januari 2015 |
min
Suffering might be the hardest, most confusing reality in the Christian life. In this lab, John Piper uncovers deep and durable truths that will help you suffer well. God made and saves the world in the way he did in to make Christ the center of the universe.
Matthew 6:9–13, Part 3: Hallowed Be Your Name
8 januari 2015 |
min
There is no more familiar prayer in the Bible than the Lord’s Prayer. In the last lab of his three-part series, John Piper highlights two major new insights he’s seen over the years in the structure and relationships within this paradigm-creating prayer of Jesus.
Matthew 6:9–13, Part 2: Deliver Us from Evil
6 januari 2015 |
min
Jesus’s prayer for you is clear: Today, you need God to provide for you, forgive you, and deliver you. Every single day, you need God to move in these three ways. In this lab, John Piper unfolds these simple, but critical prayers.
Matthew 6:9–13, Part 1: Your Kingdom Come
1 januari 2015 |
min
In five short verses in Matthew, Jesus taught us to pray. There are prayer-life-changing glories to be seen in these most familiar words *if* we slow down enough to see them. In this lab, John Piper begins a three-part series on the Lord’s Prayer.
2 Thessalonians 1:11–12: New Year’s Resolutions
30 december 2014 |
min
At the beginning of another year, people will make new resolutions. But should Christians make these New Years commitments? In this lab, John Piper shows that resolutions can be deeply Christian and grace-filled.
Hebrews 2:14–15: Why Christmas?
23 december 2014 |
min
We have every reason to look each other in the eye and say from the bottom of our heart, “Merry Christmas.” His birth means we have hope.
Philippians 1:20–23: To Die Is Gain
18 december 2014 |
min
John Piper says this passage has been one of the most pivotal for him and his ministry. These four verses hold profound and precious truths about life and about death. In this lab, Piper shows why Christ is most magnified in us when we are most satisfied in him.
What Child Is This? Luke 1:30–37
16 december 2014 |
min
What child is this, the baby boy we celebrate every Christmas? Mary met the true identity of her son in the words of an angel, recorded in Luke 1. In this lab, John Piper prepares our hearts for Christmas by slowing down over these verses.
Romans 8:17: Heirs of God
11 december 2014 |
min
Our adoption as sons and daughters of God is a deep and glorious blessing. In this lab, drawing on several other texts, John Piper asks what it means that we will be glorified with Christ and share in his inheritance. 
Romans 8:16: The Witness of the Spirit
9 december 2014 |
min
The Holy Spirit has a massive role in Romans 8, and in the rest of the Bible, but he is often overlooked. In this lab, John Piper highlights the work of the Holy Spirit, specifically three ways he testifies that we are the children of God.
Romans 8:15: Not Slavery, But Adoption
4 december 2014 |
min
Adoption is not unique to Christianity, but it is a much more complex and glorious reality in the context of God’s love for us in the gospel. In this lab, John Piper presses in on several key words to show what it means for God to be a Father.
The Children of God: Romans 8:14
2 december 2014 |
min
The Bible often argues in “if/then” statements, and the context will help us clarify exactly what the conditions are. In this lab, John Piper shows us where to find assurance that we are the children of God.
Put Sin to Death: Romans 8:12–13
27 november 2014 |
min
Do not let sin linger in your life. God gave you specific weapons to kill sin and its deception.
Sin Will Kill You: Romans 8:12–13
25 november 2014 |
min
Sin will kill you. God gives warnings in the Bible, and sometimes they seem to call into question our security in Christ. How should we read the Bible’s warnings? And what role do they play in our salvation? John Piper answers in this lab.
Matthew 10:25–31: Have No Fear of Them
20 november 2014 |
min
“Do not fear.” Jesus’s command can be hard to obey, but it is filled with promise. In this lab, John Piper shows us how Jesus helps his disciples (and us) battle fear.
Love Builds Up: 1 Corinthians 8:1–3
18 november 2014 |
min
Is knowledge good or bad? 1 Corinthians 8:1–3 says that knowledge can lead to pride or to love, so how do we know which our knowledge is? Pastor John unfolds the life of the mind in this new lab.
Romans 8:10–11: The Spirit in You Is Life
13 november 2014 |
min
Even though we’ve been saved by Jesus, we all still die. What does it mean for us that the Spirit lives in us? What does it mean for our fight against sin, our relationship to Jesus, and our death? Piper answers in this lab.
You Are Not Your Own: Romans 8:9
11 november 2014 |
min
When we belong to Jesus, when we are found in him alone, we are finally able to make God look glorious in every area of our lives, fully pleasing to him.
Romans 8:9: The Spirit Lives in You
6 november 2014 |
min
Jesus bought us with his death and then sealed us with his Spirit. In this lab, John Piper unfolds the glory of the Trinity in our salvation and the role of the Spirit in showing that we belong to Jesus.
Romans 8:7–8: The Mind Against God Is Dead
4 november 2014 |
min
Romans 8:5–8 gets down to the bottom of our sin, untangling the reasons we rebel against God. Pastor John highlights the meaning of two “for” statements to show the relationship between sin, hostility to God, death, and worldliness.
Romans 8:5–6: Set Your Mind on the Spirit
30 oktober 2014 |
min
The Bible often presents two ways for us to live. In Romans 8:5–6, Paul describes two different lives, two different mindsets, and two different conditions. This lab carefully traces the serious differences in order to cause us to look to Christ.
Romans 8:3–4: What the Law Could Not Do
28 oktober 2014 |
min
Purpose clauses (“in order that”) tell us why God does what he does. In this lab, Pastor John looks at why God gave us the law and why he sent his Son to die on the cross. All along, he asks how the Christian should relate to the law after Christ has come.
Romans 8:3–4: Love Fulfills the Law
23 oktober 2014 |
min
Romans 8:3–4 says Christ died so that the law would be fulfilled in us. What does it mean for the law to be fulfilled? And how is it fulfilled in us? In this lab, John Piper tackles these two critical questions.
Romans 8:3: God Sent His Own Son
21 oktober 2014 |
min
Romans 8:3 holds some of the most precious truths of Christianity. Paul explains how God removes our guilt and ends our condemnation. Pastor John slows down to dig into the nitty-gritty details of our good news.
Romans 8:1–4: The Spirit Set You Free
16 oktober 2014 |
min
The word “for” is one of the most common in the Bible. In this lab, Pastor John explains the relationship between our justification and sanctification by focusing on those three letters: f-o-r.
Free in Christ Jesus: Romans 8:1–3
14 oktober 2014 |
min
Paul uses the phrase “in Christ Jesus” 47 times in his letters. What does that crucial phrase mean?
Romans 7:22–8:2: No Condemnation
9 oktober 2014 |
min
In your Bible reading, an author will often compare two things. It’s important to stop and study everything you learn about how those two things are similar and different. In this lab, Pastor John looks at our slavery to sin and freedom in Christ.
Romans 8: The Greatest Chapter
7 oktober 2014 |
min
Pastor John introduces a new series focused on Romans 8. First, he spends a couple minutes helping you make the most of Look at the Book. Then, he gives you seven reasons why Romans 8 is the greatest chapter in all the Bible.
Exploring Key Words: The Book of Life
2 oktober 2014 |
min
When you come across an important word or phrase in your reading, stop to search for other uses of that same word or phrase. In this lab, John Piper briefly looks at six different verses to better understand the Book of Life.
Isaiah 48:9–11: For My Name’s Sake
30 september 2014 |
min
We should be constantly comparing lists of characteristics about God to determine if qualities are the same, different, or overlapping. In this lab, John Piper models this and uncovers God's love for us and his commitment to his own glory.
Luke 12:32: Fear Not, Little Flock
24 september 2014 |
min
There are often riches and depths of meaning in the simplest verses. Luke 12:32 is one verse with two short propositions, but there are riches buried in its simplicity. In this lab, John Piper reveals several profound reasons not to fear.
Matthew 28:18–20: I Am with You Always
23 september 2014 |
min
Some of God’s commands in the Bible are very difficult, if not impossible. Therefore, we need to pay close attention to the promises in Scripture that accompany God’s commands and equip us with God’s power to do the impossible.
1 John 5:1–4: The Victory That Overcomes the World
23 september 2014 |
min
There are two major ground clauses (“for” or “because”) in 1 John 5:3–4. Pastor John focuses in on these two for’s to see the relationship between our love for God, our love for others, and our obedience to God's commands. In doing so, he uncovers our victory in Christ.
2 Chronicles 16:8–9: The Eyes of the Lord
23 september 2014 |
min
Look for promises in Scripture that rest in the never-changing character of God, and therefore are true for his people throughout all of history, even for us today. God gives us a broader, general principle about himself and his ways using a specific event in biblical history.
Romans 11:28–32: Our Disobedience and God’s Mercy
23 september 2014 |
min
When you see personal pronouns (e.g. he, she, etc.), identify to whom they are referring. Is the writer speaking about his audience? If so, who is the audience? Is he speaking about believers or nonbelievers? To understand the passage, we have to identify the relevant parties.
Lamentations 3:31–33: He Will Not Cast Off Forever
23 september 2014 |
min
God is completely consistent in all he does, but he is also very complicated. What looks like a contradiction in God is always only a limitation in our understanding. In this lab, Pastor John asks how God could cause his children grief and remain compassionate towards them.
2 Corinthians 8:1–2: An Abundance of Joy
19 september 2014 |
min
We take some words in the Christian vocabulary for granted. 2 Corinthians offers a definition of love that you may not have considered. By paying close attention, we can find keys to loving people more truly and effectively. We also learn what’s behind the kind of generosity that pleases God.
Precious and Great Promises: 2 Peter 1:3–4
26 augusti 2014 |
min
When studying a paragraph of the Bible, break it down into individual propositions and ask questions about how each line relates to the one before it and after it. Focus in particular on connecting words (e.g. “for,” “so that,” “by,” etc.).
Breathed Out by God: 2 Timothy 3:14–17
22 juli 2014 |
min
Scripture is profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training. Learn to identify, explain, and differentiate each reason for continuing in the word.
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En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.