Tag Archives: Practicalities

Positive Authority

AUTHORITY can be used in ways that bring liberty to people, not just limitation. Authority is sometimes thought of as nothing more than telling others what they cannot do and keeping people in line. But in God’s instruction to Moses … Continue reading

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Sin Is Passed On Through Generations

PEOPLE often assume that their “private” sins hurt no one but themselves. For instance, how could the sin of envy affect anyone else? Isn’t coveting strictly a matter between them and the Lord? But sins of character have a way … Continue reading

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When You Least Expect It

SOMETIMES good happens to us when we least expect it. Sometimes we receive far more good than we deserve. When Jacob learned that Esau was approaching (Genesis 32:6), he was terrified. Here was his older twin brother—the brother that he … Continue reading

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Kill My Own Son?

IT SEEMS incredible that God would tell Abraham to “take . . . your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love . . . and offer him there as a burnt offering,” – Genesis 22:2. What sort of God … Continue reading

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The Legacy of Sodom and Gomorrah

THROUGHOUT Scripture and in countless extrabiblical works, Sodom and Gomorrah and the other cities of the plain (Genesis 13:12) stand as a symbol of divine judgment for collective wickedness. What was once a well-watered, fertile region is today barren, full … Continue reading

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Scattering and Gathering

THE CONFUSION of languages at Babel was an explosive moment in history. It introduced geographic and linguistic barriers that survive to this day. However, in breaking up the unified community at Babel, God was working out His purposes. He knew … Continue reading

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Is Work a Curse?

WHAT was the curse that God put on creation (Genesis 3:17–19)? One of the most stubborn myths in Western culture is that God imposed work as a curse to punish Adam and Eve’s sin. As a result, some people view … Continue reading

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Sin Is a Choice

Pastor’s Note: This is a new category that will consist of short commentaries on some of the practicalities of this life we live. Hopefully they will help stimulate your thoughts and maybe help you to meditate on some of the … Continue reading

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