Published on May 17, 2012
John’s first epistle offers several “tests” to help Christians know if they have savingly come to faith in Christ: The belief test: “Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God” (1 John 5:1a). So ask yourself: do I trust in Jesus Christ for salvation? The obedience test: “If we say we have fellowship with him while we... more
Published on May 10, 2012
I know what you're thinking, "What does this guy know; he doesn't even have any kids!" I asked myself the same question when I began to write this (and so did everyone else on staff with kids)! But I spend a lot of time around students, and I hear a lot about parents and how they parent. Raising up the next generation of Christ-followers is my pa... more
Published on April 25, 2012
There is much hope to be found in the Bible. It is a life-giving and life-changing book. It tells the story of a God who deeply cares for his people (Ps. 23) and his creation (Ps. 24.1). His ways are higher than our ways (Is. 55.9) and his mind is complex (1 Cor. 2.16). The Bible tells the story of how God is rescuing and redeeming a world broken... more
Published on April 5, 2012
On a Thursday evening about 2,000 years ago, Jesus reclined with his closest friends and celebrated his last Passover meal. Their meal was different this time, though. As Jesus explained that the bread and wine represented his own body and blood, his disciples had no idea what would happen the next day - but Jesus did. He knew exactly what was co... more
Published on February 13, 2012
For years, the New International Version has been the Bible translation of choice at The Fellowship. It’s been the standard for preaching, teaching, and study - at least during Donnie Smith’s tenure as Pastor. However, as of February, 2012, The Fellowship is switching to the English Standard Version as the preferred translation to be preached, ta... more
Published on January 12, 2012
When was the last time you read Revelation? Beyond reading it, when was the last time you tried to study it?! There’s a reason for the lack of Bible studies in churches on Revelation. And the reason? It’s hard! Saint John’s Revelation is a hard letter to interpret. With all its bowls and trumpets and dragons, what are we to make of this book? I... more
Published on January 4, 2012
Okay, maybe the title should be "The Perfect Model For A Woman." Because believe it or not, there is no perfect woman - just like there is no perfect man. We all have flaws, we all sin, and relationships take work when flawed, sinful people are involoved. But the Bible does offer a pretty good idea of who the godly wife and mother is. Read Prov... more
Published on November 22, 2011
“First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed in all the world.” Romans 1.8 “I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus,” 1 Corinthians 1.4 “I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers,” Ephesians 1.16 “I thank... more
Published on October 19, 2011
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.... more
Published on September 29, 2011
Superheroes are exciting because they have unique abilities. Some can fly, some have x-ray vision, some can walk through walls, and some can breathe underwater. What makes them superheroes (other than their wardrobe choices)? They use their powers to help people. What super power would you choose? What if your power allowed you to get anywhere... more