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JOY -WHERE TO FIND IT

Joy is one of the greatest things that we human beings can desire. We need joy to make life worthwhile. Earthly wealth and fame may never give us true joy. On the other hand, there are many people that experience … Continue reading

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Our Awesome God: He Does Not Change Hebrews 6:13-18

Before the president of the United States can take office, he has to swear an oath. Historically, he puts his hand on a Bible, and he repeats these words from the US Constitution: “I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that … Continue reading

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The Name: “Christian” Acts 11:26

When Rachel and I married, almost 29 years ago, she did what is common practice and custom in English speaking worlds – she took my last name. She left being “Rachel Anderson” and became “Rachel Holland.” In fact, in the … Continue reading

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AN INTRODUCTION TO THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT Matthew 5-7

INTRODUCTION This is the first recorded sermon of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. He had already preached: “The kingdom of heaven is at hand” (4:17) and taught “the gospel of the kingdom” in synagogues throughout Galilee (4:23). But in … Continue reading

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The Arch of Triumph

Just outside of the Colosseum in Rome are massive arches built by the emperors in the Roman Forum. Five arches were built but only three remain. These arches were built to commemorate various victories and events in Roman history. The … Continue reading

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“Follow Me” Luke 5:27-32

About 60% of the human body is water. We lose water simply by breathing. We lose water by sweating. We lose water when we use the bathroom. We are constantly losing water. That’s why health professionals tell us that the … Continue reading

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Heavenly Minded Colossians 3:1-10

The expression “get your head out of the clouds” refers to someone who has such lofty hopes and dreams and aspirations that he or she might not have their feet planted in reality. You can’t have hopes that extend beyond … Continue reading

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JESUS PROCLAIMS THE KINGDOM Matthew 4:23-25

Jesus has just begun His public ministry. Our text is one of many in which Matthew gives a quick summation of His work (see, for example, 9:35). Let’s discuss a few points from the text and draw some applications. Jesus … Continue reading

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“Searching For Lost Time”

Years ago, my sons and I went hiking at Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia.  They were teenagers at the time with more energy than me, so I waited as they explored an extension of the trail.  They returned with … Continue reading

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Christianity in Community 1 Corinthians 12

Several weeks ago now I wrote about one of my ministry “mantras”: At the center of Christianity is a cross. Another personal mantra says, “God designed Christianity to be done in community.” The first portion of the statement honors God’s … Continue reading

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