Posts with the tag “old-testament”

Foundational Christian concepts explained concisely and clearly.  Read More

In Deuteronomy 15 and 16, we're reminded of God's desire for His people to gather in worship, remembering His faithfulness, rejoicing in His present goodness, and trusting in His future promises. The passage discusses some of the key celebrations for ancient Israel: the consecration of firstborn males, Passover, and the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Booths. These rituals weren't mere obligations, but invitations from God to experience His presence and goodness. As we reflect on these practices, we're challenged to consider how our own worship today incorporates these three 'tenses' of faith. Are we remembering God's past deliverance, rejoicing in His current blessings, and trusting in His future faithfulness? This message encourages us to view our gatherings not as burdens, but as opportunities to encounter God's love and renew our faith. It's a call to approach our gatherings together as more than just routine, but as transformative experiences that shape our daily lives and deepens our relationship with God.  Read More

This week, we're challenged to reflect on our role as our brother's keeper. The central message revolves around God's call for His people to be generous and compassionate, mirroring His own nature. We're reminded that as God's children, we're not just recipients of His blessings, but channels through which His love flows to others. The tithe, often seen as a burden, is reframed as a joyful act of worship and a means to support God's mission and care for the needy. This passage beautifully illustrates how our generosity isn't just about giving money, but about reflecting God's character in our relationships and community. As we consider the Sabbath year of release and the call to open-handedness, we're invited to examine our own hearts. Are we holding tightly to what we think we've earned, or are we living with the same generous spirit that God has shown us? This message challenges us to see our resources, whether financial or relational, as tools to bless others and glorify God.  Read More

In our study of Deuteronomy 14, we're invited to see God's laws not as restrictive burdens, but as loving boundaries set by a caring Father. The food laws and funeral practices discussed aren't just arbitrary rules - they're designed to set God's people apart as holy and treasured. So we are challenged to consider how we live as God's children in a world that often pulls us in different directions? But this message ultimately points us to Christ, who perfectly fulfilled these laws and offers us the opportunity to become children of God through faith in Him. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to live in a way that reflects our status as God's holy and treasured possession, not out of obligation, but out of love and gratitude for the freedom we've been given in Christ.  Read More

This sermon explores the central role of love in God's covenant with Israel, emphasizing that the essence of the covenant was love, not merely law. The pastor argues that obedience to God's law stems from loving Him above all else. He draws parallels between the Old Testament covenant and the New Testament teachings on love, highlighting how God's love for His people precedes and motivates their love for Him. The sermon challenges listeners to examine their own lives and conversations to see if they truly reflect a love for God that permeates every aspect of their being.  Read More