Seven Sayings: I Thirst

Soon Jesus would be dead.  The four last statements of Jesus seemed to happen in quick succession.  The fifth word of seven is, “I thirst.” John 19:28-29 28 After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst. 29 Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar:Continue reading “Seven Sayings: I Thirst”

Seven Sayings: My God, My God, Why hast Thou Forsaken Me

Jesus was on the cross for six hours at this point. It was about 3pm (the ninth hour of the day).  Up to this point, we have seen a great bit of detail about the physical side of Jesus’ crucifixion.  In this fourth statement, we are now fully introduced to the deeper anguish pressing down on the Savior.Continue reading “Seven Sayings: My God, My God, Why hast Thou Forsaken Me”

Seven Sayings: Behold thy…

John 19:25-27 In the previous two statements made by Jesus on the cross, we were given a glimpse into the salvific power of Christ.  The intercessory work was demonstrated through Jesus’ prayer to the Father over the ignorance of the crowds.  The immediate nature of salvation was seen in the words spoken to the penitentContinue reading “Seven Sayings: Behold thy…”

Seven Sayings: Today

The second sermon in our series, “Seven Sayings from the Cross” comes from Luke 23:35-43.  Everything Jesus did and said had a purpose.  There were no wasted movements or waster breath with Him.  Including the words, He spoke from the cross.  While I don’t think they were intended to be wordy theological dialogues like theContinue reading “Seven Sayings: Today”

Most Read Posts of 2018

We just wanted to send out a message to thank everyone for another wonderful year on our blog.  The following lists show the ten most-read posts this year.  Looking forward to another year of serving and writing! 10. Christian Baptist Camp Meeting 2018 9. Three reflections on the Old Testament Tabernacle. 8. Don’t Quit! 7.Continue reading “Most Read Posts of 2018”

Almost back to normal?

At the beginning of December, I finished the last course for my Ph.D.   One-third of the way done with the Ph.D. requirements.  The remaining two is the completion of the oral comprehensive exam in February 2019 and my dissertation.  I thank the Lord for all He has already done and anticipate greater things still toContinue reading “Almost back to normal?”

The Fellowship of the Church

Relationships between Church members possess great influence when it comes to the overall health of the church.  When a church is known for its loving fellowship, the atmosphere may be characterized as warm, welcoming, non-threatening, and hospitable.  On the other hand, if a church is known for not having a loving fellowship than it mayContinue reading “The Fellowship of the Church”

Changes that have affected ministry.

The following is a list of major shifts in everyday life that have changed how a large portion of how ministry takes place.  The first list focuses on past changes from the 1950s to 2000.  The second list focuses on changes since 2000 and the trajectory into the future. Past Changes – 1950’s to PresentContinue reading “Changes that have affected ministry.”

Some thoughts about lay ministry.

Last year, a friend and I were talking about the ministry of the laity in the church. What is laity? Basically, these individuals are those who serve in the church and are non-ordained (commissioned to preach/pastor). However, in my association of churches, we ordain deacons and their role is different from the pastor. So, laityContinue reading “Some thoughts about lay ministry.”