God’s Plan for Freedom “The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound” (Isaiah 61:1). The above prophecy is often applied to the work of God’s Kingdom. However, when reading this passage in the synagogue at Nazareth, Jesus said, “this day, is this […]
The Gospel Age The Gospel Age is the first of two ages of redemption. It precedes the Millennial Age when all the world will appreciate what Christ has done, and turn their hearts toward him. The present Gospel Age, however, is a time of even greater favor. Those who have been blessed to hear the heavenly calling, and respond with a devoted, consecrated life, have the remarkable prospect of sharing with Christ both his heavenly home (John 14:2), and his work of […]
The Privilege of Saints “By him, therefore, let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased” (Hebrews 13:15-16). by Tom Gilbert God chose Abraham and his descendants to be his special people on the earth. He made this choice because of the unwavering faith and obedience of Abraham. After delivering Israel from […]
Our Ever-Present Challenge “To all God’s loved ones who are in Rome, called to be saints. May grace and peace be granted to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 1:7, Weymouth). by John Hummel Our text identifies the book of Romans as written to saints! Paul strongly encourages brethren to become living sacrifices. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is […]
Earnest, Loving Concern “I beseech you … brethren, by the mercies of God” (Romans 12:1) by David Stein The Apostle Paul loved the brethren. Their spiritual health and well-being were all-important to him. Consequently, Paul on occasion pleads with brethren about things he considered vital to their growth as new creatures. On those occasions, he “beseeches” the brethren. The word “beseech” is not a word we hear frequently. The modern equivalent might be “implore.” But “beseech” is a perfect word to use […]