Temptation to be Relevant, Popular, and Powerful
Read: As I continue to ponder what Zechariah did during his 9+ months of silence as Elizabeth managed her high-risk pregnancy, I read this incredible section in the NIVAC (NIV Application Commentary). I hope you’ll read this and consider your leadership role in the church. Whether you’re on staff or occasionally attend a gathering of …
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Luke: The Birth of John the Baptist and Zechariah’s Song
Read: I’ve been using the NIVAC (NIV Application Commentary) to unpack each section of scripture, to learn from scholars who’ve invested their lives in understanding Hebrew, Greek, Latin, and complex histories about the life and time of those who walked with Jesus. Today’s passage is wonderful. I’m excited to add some thoughts on Luke’s words …
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Luke: Mary Visits Elizabeth; The Magnificat
Read A remarkable meeting of Mary and Elizabeth followed by Mary’s Song, The Magnificat. The two women play such a significant part of the male dominated history of our ancestors. It seems fitting that Luke would take time and space to honor them by recording an exciting moment when they meet during pregnancy: Mary with …
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Luke: The Birth of Jesus Foretold
Luke: The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold
Read: Luke takes some time to introduce Zechariah and Elizabeth, parents of John the Baptist, as they are blessed by a visit from the angel Gabriel. This is a story of devotion to service that is rewarded far beyond expectation. Zechariah’s immediate reaction results in losing his ability to speak while Elizabeth quickly figures out …
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Luke: Dedication to Theophilus
Today we begin to read through Luke’s gospel account of the life of Jesus. Here’s an overview of where we will venture over the next several weeks: The Preface (1:1–4) The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus (1:5–2:52) The Preparation of Jesus for His Public Ministry (3:1–4:13) His Ministry in Galilee (4:14–9:9) His Withdrawal …
Mark: Resurrection — He Has Risen!
Read: In this remarkable conclusion to John Mark’s gospel, we read about the impossible, improbable, incomprehensible resurrection of Jesus! He has risen! Once again, the women take the initiative to do that which was uncomfortable at the very least: When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices …
Mark: Crucifixion, Death, and Burial of Jesus
Read: As a rule, I don’t get real excited about New Year’s celebrations, but I am hopeful that 2018 will be a year of change, redirection, refocus, and rebuilding for the ministry that Jesus has in mind for me. That’s probably not very unique, but in the last 4 or 5 years, significant changes have …
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