“The 144,000 Sealed” (Revelation 7:1-8)
The 144,000 Sealed (Rev. 7:1-8) Jehovah’s Witnesses claim that prior to 1935 144,000 people were anointed to enter heaven. Latter Day Saints believe there are 144,000 high priests who have been ordained according to the holy order of God. Christians have their own confusion about this number. With so many confusing interpretations, we must remember the context of the original audience. Late in the first century John received a revelation from God of which he was to make a written…
“The Great Day of Wrath” (Revelation 6:9-17)
The Great Day of Wrath (Rev. 6:9-17) We must not lose sight of the big picture as we make our way through Revelation. John is describing what he saw. Revelation paints vivid pictures for us, but not precise photographs or videos of reality. Revelation is about the victory of the Lamb. As we consider the breaking of these seals keep in mind chapters four and five, namely, that God is on his throne and that Christ is worthy to execute…
“The Lord’s Prayer” (Luke 11:1-4)
The Lord’s Prayer (Luke 11:1-4) Read Luke 11:1-4 Why don’t we pray more? Why are prayer meetings so poorly attended, not only here but at most churches? It does not seem to be due to a lack of information. Many who are very comfortable reading and applying Scripture are still terrified to pray out loud. There is an unnecessary intimidation involved. Part of what I am hoping to do by slowing down in our series in Luke is to help…
“The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse” (Revelation 6:1-8)
The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse (Rev. 6:1-8) In his book, The Great Awakening, Joseph Tracy highlights the context of New England in early eighteenth century. Unbelievers were allowed to participate in the Lord’s Supper as long as they had been baptized. There was little to no regard for theological and moral examination. Eventually, even the pulpits were filled with unconverted men. When Jonathan Edwards began preaching a series on “Justification By Faith,” he attacked the notion that any could…
“What Is Prayer?” (Various Scriptures)
What is prayer? WLC 178 Answer: Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God1, in the name of Christ2, by the help of his Spirit3; with confession of our sins4, and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies5.
“Worthy Is the Lamb” (Revelation 5:8-14)
Worthy Is the Lamb (Rev. 5:8-14) We talk about coming before God in worship with reverence and awe. He is holy, majestic, and worthy to receive our praise. But, we are sinful, defiled, and unworthy in and of ourselves. The first thing we need is the cleansing blood of Christ to make us worthy. Then we need the enabling work of the Spirit to empower our worship. And when you have both, you will engage in worship with your whole…
“Martha and Mary” (Luke 10:38-42)
Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38-42) As we continue to make our way through Luke, it is helpful to keep in mind his stated purpose. He is writing to Theophilus, and Christians like him, to provide assurance about the things they had been taught about Jesus (1:1-4). As a doctor, he was educated and understood the importance of providing “an orderly account”. Jesus just told the parable of the Good Samaritan to the crowd in answer to the self-righteous lawyer. It…