Most Christians know the story of the rich, young ruler.[1] He came to Jesus seeking the secret to eternal life, and boldly asserted that he had obeyed God’s commandments his whole life. Jesus told him he needed to do one more thing: sell everything he owned, give the proceeds to Read more…
I recently saw a little brochure—what we used to call a “tract” when I was a baby Christian—that said, “Eternal Life is a Free Gift.” Well, yes. And no. Romans 6:23 says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gracious gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Read more…
There seems to be a lot of hate going around these days—hatred toward people who are “different,” hatred toward political opponents, and even hatred toward friends or family members for a variety of reasons. But Christians must have no room in their hearts for such hatred. We are called to Read more…
There are many examples in the Bible of God giving people no real choice in what they do. For example, when God sent Moses to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, God said he would “harden Pharaoh’s heart that I may multiply My signs and My wonders in Read more…
I have been called many unflattering things on social media, mostly because of my political views. Regardless of whether you are blue, red, or purple, if you spend much time on social media you’ve probably experienced something similar. But what really hurts my heart is when the people doing the Read more…
Advertisers talk about a product’s “brand,” which refers to features or characteristics that customers associate with a particular product. For example, one paper towel manufacturer wants customers to think of it as “the quicker picker upper.” Car manufacturers may want their car to be identified with being fast or reliable Read more…
A story about C.S. Lewis says that he once walked into a gathering of Christian leaders who were discussing what makes Christianity unique among the world’s religions. Some said the resurrection, but others pointed out that many religions have stories about men or gods dying and coming back to life.[1] Read more…
In about 1535, as Martin Luther’s Protestant Reformation was gaining traction in Europe, John Calvin published The Institutes of the Christian Religion, in which he argued that God has predestined every person on earth to either eternal salvation or eternal damnation, and that no one can change their eternal fate. Read more…
We had an election on Tuesday. Some are enjoying the thrill of victory, while others are licking their wounds. We recently crowned a new World Series champion. Houston Astros fans celebrated; Philadelphia Phillies fans lamented. I enjoy watching football on television. I cheer when my team wins and I hurt Read more…
A couple of weeks ago I talked about what is necessary for salvation. I pointed out that if mere belief were enough, then Satan and his demons would be bound for Heaven, for they don’t merely believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, or that he rose Read more…