Criticism is tough to take, but often necessary. So, how can we become more quick to hear? Next time someone corrects, criticizes, or points out a failure or sin to you, try these tips.
A funeral sermon should not exceed 20 minutes and should highlight these three categories, preferably expounded from Scripture...
So, how do we break into the lives of people who are immersed in this postmodern reality? How do we reach them for the gospel? Do we offer therapeutic entertainment to draw them in? Nope. Instead, we do the unthinkable in our modern age. We preach.
The salvation that was expected in the Old Testament is exhibited in the Gospels and then explained in the rest of the New Testament.
According to Daniel 2:29, Nebuchadnezzar went to bed one night thinking about the future. He had a dream that was too important to pass over lightly.
“We believe” the creed has us say, and this belief begins where the gospel story and our worship ought to begin, with the one who has no beginning (or end): God himself.
It is quite possible that in years of rote recitation, the creed has appeared dry to us and flat. But let’s look at it again, perhaps with fresh eyes.
Marvel at the power of the risen Jesus today to subject all things to himself. Marvel that one day, at his coming, he will use this power to transform your body into a body like his. Marvel that today your citizenship is in heaven where Christ rules—or if it’s not, put it there today.
In Ephesians 2 Paul takes us down to the Death Valley of the Soul and then up to “the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” The journey’s contrast will enhance our appreciation for what we have in Christ and will influence the way we live.
