Accept One Another

Romans 15:7ย  ยทย  โ€œOne Anotherโ€ Series, Lesson 2 The Command I. Love Comes to the Front Door Let me begin by telling a story.ย  Many years ago, when I was still in college, I attended my first church retreat; it was in the Hill Country of Texas. Andโ€ฆ I wore shorts. I didnโ€™t know there … Continue reading Accept One Another

Love One Another

I. Introduction Most organizations want to be recognized. Companies spend millions of dollars to create logos so you can recognize them. Hereโ€™s a quick quiz โ€” how many of these company logos can you name? Answers: Row 1: Marriott, Shell, Nike, Popeyes, Pepsi, Atari, Union 76, ToyotaRow 2: Prudential, AT&T, Chevrolet, Adobe, John Deere, McDonald's, … Continue reading Love One Another

I AM The True Vine

  I.      Introduction Diane is a wonderful gardener.  Our backyard is an oasis โ€“ flowers grow everywhere.  She tends the roses and the hibiscus, which she calls her โ€œbiscuits,โ€ and she prunes them faithfully.  And sometimes, sheโ€™ll cut an especially beautiful flower and put it in a vase in the kitchen.  And hereโ€™s the thing … Continue reading I AM The True Vine

A Response to “The Protestant Reformation Was a Total Failure. Period.”

I don't usually delve into discussions of apostasy or church authority. My own personal feeling is to pursue unity where possible โ€” Paul puts it well in Ephesians 4:3: "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." But I recently read an article on Catholic Share by Godwin … Continue reading A Response to “The Protestant Reformation Was a Total Failure. Period.”

I AM The Way, the Truth and the Life

I.             Introduction Thereโ€™s a specific kind of frustration that comes when you ask someone for directions and they say, โ€œYou canโ€™t miss it.โ€ Diane always says that when someone tells you, โ€œYou canโ€™t miss it,โ€ you are now guaranteed to miss it. You can always miss it. I have missed things that multiple confident people … Continue reading I AM The Way, the Truth and the Life

I AM The Resurrection and the Life

I. Introduction โ€” The Moment When โ€œToo Lateโ€ Arrives There are different kinds of "too late." Some are annoying. Too late for the early-bird special. Too late to return that purchase without a receipt. Too late to get the good seats. Some are heavier. Too late to apologize. Too late to say goodbye. Too late … Continue reading I AM The Resurrection and the Life

The Word Was Enough

I. Introduction Think about the last time you asked someone for help and they couldn't come. Maybe a repairman said he'd be there Wednesday โ€” he wasn't. Maybe a doctor said "we'll schedule something" and meant three weeks from now. Maybe a friend said "I'll be right there" and you were still waiting an hour … Continue reading The Word Was Enough

When God Teaches Me

This morning I was studying John 11, the raising of Lazarus. I knew the story, but I can't say I ever attended a bible study on it, and I've certainly never studied or taught what "I AM The Resurrection and the Life" meant. I say frequently that the only reason I teach is because when … Continue reading When God Teaches Me

I AM The Door

I.      Introduction Think about all the doors you passed through today. You probably didn't think about a single one of them. You just walked through. That's what doors do when they're working correctly โ€” they're invisible. You don't think about a door until it's locked and you don't have the key, or someone slams it … Continue reading I AM The Door

I AM the Light of the World

Introduction - Light Changes Everything Legos are evil. I'm convinced of it. Step on one in the dark and it's an incredibly painful experience. In fact, some theologians believe the thorn in Paul's side โ€” the one he begged the Lord three times to take away โ€” was actually a Lego. If you step on … Continue reading I AM the Light of the World

I AM The Bread of Life

ย  I.ย ย ย ย ย  Introduction Who does Jesus say He is? The Gospel of John describes Jesus beautifully, beginning with John 1:1: โ€œIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.โ€ But for our lesson today, I want to begin a little later in John 1:9โ€“13 because it provides … Continue reading I AM The Bread of Life

Behold! Your King is Coming!

       I.      Introduction Jesus has been making His way toward Jerusalem for His final Passover. Along the way, He has been telling parables and teaching in synagogues. He has been describing the Kingdom of Heaven, sharing difficult wisdom such as โ€œIt is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than … Continue reading Behold! Your King is Coming!

Halleluiah! Praise the Lord!

  I.      Introduction Sometimes when I study, I get a plot, like in the Book of Jonah or Exodus or Acts.  I enjoy studying it, the plot, the life lesson, the historical significance, the miracles, and the fishing lessons.    But Psalms is usually hard for me.  I read todayโ€™s scripture and thought, โ€œItโ€™s a … Continue reading Halleluiah! Praise the Lord!

The Temple

  I.      Introduction โ€“ The Temple In our class last week, Tommy taught us that we should be prepared for the coming of the Lord.  Well, Heโ€™s here.  And here in Luke 2, we get our only inspired snapshot of Jesus between infancy and adulthood.  And weโ€™ll see in just a few short verses something … Continue reading The Temple

Ross King

I was blessed by Ross King's honesty about his faith through difficult times. I skipped over the two worship songs and pick up about 10 minutes in to get to his personal story about his pain and challenges to his faith. https://youtu.be/SLaBj5zv1DA?si=IywhkehHLnWHJ-_o&t=634

Finding Wisdom

I.             Introduction An old friend once told me a story that every married man understands. His wife tried on a new dress and asked, โ€œDoes this dress make me look fat?โ€ He answered with complete honesty. It was true - and it was also unwise. Later he said something I have never forgotten: truth and … Continue reading Finding Wisdom

Confession, Reconciliation, Celebration

I.             Icebreaker โ€” Stories of Reconciliation Before we turn to Nehemiah, let me connect us to where weโ€™ve been the past couple of weeks. Two weeks ago, Tommy used home renovation showsโ€”things like Property Brothersโ€”to help us think about rebuilding. That fit Nehemiah well, because Nehemiah quite literally asks the king for permission to rebuild … Continue reading Confession, Reconciliation, Celebration

God Protects Us

             I.      Introduction We all arrived safely at the office today. Raise your hand if youโ€™re not here. We donโ€™t always stop to think about it, but even something as ordinary as getting to work safely is evidence of Godโ€™s care. Scripture reminds us that our steps are ordered by the Lord, and His protection … Continue reading God Protects Us

Esther: Queen of the Darkest Night

I.             Introduction Israel had long been warned that disobedience would lead to captivity. Jerusalem fell, many were exiled, and empires changed hands. Daniel not only foretold the rise of Persiaโ€”he also lived through the transfer of power as Godโ€™s people remained in exile. Esther takes place in the Persian Empire after Babylon fell, when many … Continue reading Esther: Queen of the Darkest Night

God’s Plan: A New Year, A New You

             I.      Jeremiah the Prophet Itโ€™s a new yearโ€”time to change the page on the calendarโ€ฆ unless, like me, you use a digital calendar. Then you donโ€™t change the page; you press a button. Either way, it feels like a fresh start. But Scripture reminds us that โ€œnewโ€ isnโ€™t mainly about the calendar. The Bibleโ€™s … Continue reading God’s Plan: A New Year, A New You

The Gifts of the Magi, the Gift of Our Savior

I.             Introduction: How Did the Magi Know? Back in 2015, I traveled a lot more than I do today, and in December 2015, I found myself in the grand metropolis of Otley, UK.  Now in the UK, I donโ€™t know if they know what a warm sunny day is, but that weekend, the rain had … Continue reading The Gifts of the Magi, the Gift of Our Savior

Giving Thanks at Thanksgiving

  I.      Introduction The air is filled with the warm aromas of a hearty feast, families gather around tables laden with dishes like roast turkey, sweet potatoes, and green bean casserole. Expressions of gratitude echo through the air during this festive season, as traditions like cranberry sauce and dressing bring family and friends together.  Beyond … Continue reading Giving Thanks at Thanksgiving

God Knows Us Intimately

             I.      Introduction Psalm 139 Today I want to take a moment to reflect not on headlines or controversies, but on the foundational truth that every life is known and loved by God.  In Psalm 139, David meditates not on theological jargon, but on the overwhelming reality of God's personal involvement with His creation. Psalm … Continue reading God Knows Us Intimately

Blessings for Those Who Fear the Lord

The content reflects on Psalm 128, emphasizing that true success is found in reverence for the Lord, rather than societal measures like wealth or titles. It illustrates how blessings extend from individual faith to family and community, advocating for a life focused on God's guidance. Happiness arises through obedience and faithful living.

Trust in the Lord

             I.      Introduction Initial Discussion:  Do you ever get discouraged? What situation have you been in that discouraged youโ€”job loss, health issues, family matters? When my last company a few years back started downsizing, the days were discouraging.  I said goodbye to co-workers daily.  They stop by my office, shake my hand, say it's been … Continue reading Trust in the Lord

Forgiveness

The content discusses the profound nature of forgiveness as exemplified in Psalm 32, highlighting the contrast between Godโ€™s unconditional forgiveness and human reluctance to forgive. It shares tragic stories, notably the Amish community's response to a shooting, emphasizing how true forgiveness is a choice that leads to healing and joy.

Security in God

             I.      Introduction Psalm 62 is not written from a place of comfort, but from the middle of one of the most turbulent seasons in Davidโ€™s life. The historical setting is Absalomโ€™s rebellion, recorded in 2 Samuel 15โ€“18. By this point, David is no longer the young shepherd-king who defeated Goliath or the newly enthroned … Continue reading Security in God

Our Creator

             I.      In the Beginning In the Beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.  And God said, โ€œLet there be light,โ€ and there was light.  And God saw the light was good.  God separated the light from the darkness, and there was evening, and there was morning, and there was the first day. And … Continue reading Our Creator

The Lord is My Shepherd

             I.      Introduction โ€“ Why do We Pray? Psalm 23 is perhaps the most well-known and beloved passage in the entire Bible. Its words have brought comfort and hope to countless believers through generations, providing peace in times of distress and assurance amid uncertainty. This week, well-known Christian leader and author Charlie Kirk was assassinated. … Continue reading The Lord is My Shepherd

The King’s Prophecy

  I.      Introduction Over the past few months, we've been studying the Psalmsโ€”God-breathed poetry that reveals deep emotional honesty, divine justice, and prophetic truth. For four weeks, we stepped aside to focus on apologetics and Islam, examining how the Christian faith compares to and differs from other worldviews. Now, returning to the Psalms, we focus … Continue reading The King’s Prophecy

Does God Exist?

             I.      Introduction "God is Dead."  -Nietzsche, 1882. "Nietzsche is Dead."  -God, eternal. We're working through various Psalms for a few weeks, and this week we'll explore how God reveals Himself to us.  In other words, How do I know God exists, and how does that affect me?  Does God Exist? In 2009, journalist John … Continue reading Does God Exist?

Enduring Trials

Enduring Trials for the Glory of Christ How Suffering Purifies, Strengthens, and Prepares Us for Eternal Glory I. Introduction In 1 Peter 4:12โ€“19, Peter speaks tenderly but urgently to Christians facing trials. Last week in 1 Peter 4:7-11, Peter had called believers to stay focused on prayer, love, hospitality, and service. Now, he turns directly … Continue reading Enduring Trials

Pray, Love, Serve

In 1 Peter 4:7-11, Peter emphasizes living purposefully as believers, urging spiritual alertness, deep love, and faithful service in light of Christ's imminent return. He encourages prayerful living, selfless love, and the responsible use of spiritual gifts to glorify God, highlighting the importance of community and unity amidst challenges.

Submission and Suffering

In 1 Peter 2:18-25, Peter instructs believers to submit to their masters, emphasizing respectful conduct even in harsh situations. He advocates for enduring unjust suffering as a commendable act of faith, mirroring Christโ€™s example. Ultimately, such trials lead to spiritual strength and divine recognition, reaffirming God's purpose in believers' lives.

In the World, Not Of the World

Christians are temporary residents in this world, called to live righteously and submit to authorities as a reflection of their faith. It encourages believers to appreciate lifeโ€™s beauty while remembering their eternal destination, acting as ambassadors of Christ through loving behavior, and adhering to Godโ€™s will above all.

Love and Obedience

We explore Peter's teaching in 1 Peter 1:22-25 about the significance of obedience, purification, and sincere love among believers. It highlights that true love, stemming from a transformed heart, is rooted in the eternal Word of God, contrasting the fleeting nature of human life with the permanence of God's promises and the transformative power of the gospel.

Be Holy

1 Peter 1:13-16 emphasizes the call to holiness for believers, highlighting the importance of mental preparedness, sobriety, and hope in Christโ€™s grace. Peter encourages followers to shed past ignorance, embrace moral purity, and embody God's holiness in all aspects of life, ensuring that their conduct reflects their identity as God's children.

Chosen By God, Shielded by His Power

The letters of 1st and 2nd Peter offer encouragement to believers enduring persecution, emphasizing their identity as God's elect and exiles. Addressing societal pressures, Peter highlights themes of divine election, sanctification, and hope through Christ. Believers are reminded of their eternal inheritance and the protective power of God in navigating life's challenges.

Christlike Submission

I.             Introduction Bill had the honor last week of telling wives to submit to their husbands.   I think Bill made it clear that whatever misogynistic and sarcastic comment I was probably going to make isnโ€™t supported by scripture. So last week, after emphasizing mutual submission in the latter half of Ephesians 5 and addressing husbands … Continue reading Christlike Submission

Imitate God: Walking in Love, Light, and Wisdom

Ephesians 5:1-21 emphasizes living in reflection of Godโ€™s character through love, light, and wisdom. Paul encourages believers to embody Christ-like love, reject immoral behaviors, and make intentional, Spirit-led choices. This transformation fosters community unity and a distinctive witness in a morally ambiguous culture, underscoring the significance of intentional Christian living.

Unity and Maturity

In Ephesians 4:1-16, Paul emphasizes believers' unity and spiritual maturity. He calls for humility, gentleness, patience, and love to maintain this unity, which is the Holy Spirit's work. Each believer has unique gifts for church edification, aiming for Christlikeness and stability in truth, fostering a healthy church community.

Godโ€™s Unfolding Plan for the Gentiles

Introduction: Godโ€™s Unfolding Plan for the Gentiles In Ephesians 3:1-13, Paul reflects on his role in revealing the "mystery" that had been hidden for agesโ€”that Gentiles are fellow heirs with Israel in Godโ€™s redemptive plan. Godโ€™s eternal purpose, beginning with Adam and continuing through Abraham and Israel, culminates in Christ. From the very beginning, Godโ€™s … Continue reading Godโ€™s Unfolding Plan for the Gentiles

Ephesians 2:1-10 From Death to Life

In Ephesians 2:1-10, Paul emphasizes the transformative journey of believers, highlighting humanity's past spiritual death and need for salvation. God's rich mercy and grace lead to renewed life through faith in Christ, free from boasting. Believers are created for good works as evidence of their faith and God's purposeful design.

Ephesians 1:1-14: Understanding Our Identity and Spiritual Blessings in Christ

Paul's letter to the Ephesians unveils spiritual wisdom and blessings in Christ. It emphasizes God's sovereignty and the believers' identity as saints, apart from worldly achievements. Paul discusses grace, predestination, redemption, and the Holy Spirit's seal, contrasting with secular views. This comprehensive understanding directs believers towards eternal and spiritual realities.

The Struggles of a Godly Man

God's mysteries of who he blesses and who he allows trials escape me. The Apostle Paul was beheaded. Steven was stoned. Certainly faithful service alone doesn't solicit blessings. I'm a sinner saved by grace with nothing to offer, yet in many ways, God has blessed me. Too numerous to mention. My friend and brother Trey … Continue reading The Struggles of a Godly Man

The Last Hours: Part 3

Under pressure, Christians often struggle to openly demonstrate their faith. The denial of Jesus by Peter, driven by fear and pride, exemplifies this. However, Peter's restoration by Jesus reflects God's forgiveness and the transformative power of grace. This serves as a reminder of our need for humility and dependence on God in our journey of faith.

The Last Hours, Part 2

This week's passage in Matthew 26:26-56 showcases significant events in Jesus' life. It includes the institution of the Lord's Supper, Peter's denial prediction, Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane, and His subsequent arrest. These events emphasize fulfillment of prophecy, Jesus' obedience to God's will, and the symbolism of the Lord's Supper elements.

The Last Hours, Part 1

I.             Introduction Over the next three weeks, we will study Matthew 26, focusing on the last hours of Jesus, His arrest, and the trial events. Today, we begin with Matthew 26:1-25. This passage covers the events leading up to Jesus' arrest, marking the beginning of the Passion narrative. It includes Jesus predicting His crucifixion, the … Continue reading The Last Hours, Part 1

Readiness for the Lord’s Return

This content delves into Matthew 24, exploring Jesus' teachings on the signs of the end times and the necessity of vigilance and readiness. It discusses the Parable of the Fig Tree, the Unknown Day and Hour, and the Parable of the Faithful Servant, underscoring the importance of preparedness and ethical conduct in light of Christ's eventual return.

The Signs of the Times

The Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24 explores the signs preceding Christ's return and stresses the importance of understanding biblical prophecy. It begins with Jesus predicting the temple's destruction, symbolizing the end of an era. The passage discusses signs like deceptions, wars, famines, and earthquakes as indications of the approaching end times, emphasizing the need for endurance. It also highlights the significance of the "abomination of desolation" and the great tribulation, culminating in cosmic disturbances heralding the Second Coming.

20th Blogiversary

The 20-year-old blog "Chasing the Wind" began as lighthearted stories and evolved to address politics, faith, and the author's personal experiences. With gratitude, the author acknowledges the impact of their faith, sharing learnings and teaching Bible study for 18 years. They express appreciation for the support of their readers.

The Rich Young Ruler

The passage from Matthew 19:16-26 delves into the interaction between Jesus and the rich young ruler, offering insights into wealth, discipleship, and reliance on the Lord. It explores the challenges of prioritizing spiritual wealth over material abundance, emphasizing the role of divine grace in achieving true discipleship and entrance into the Kingdom of Heaven.

From Humility to Forgiveness

Introduction: Contextual Background So weโ€™re going to cover Matthew 18, several parables together, so itโ€™s going to feel like weโ€™re moving quickly.  But thereโ€™s a theme, a purpose to Matthewโ€™s writings, so itโ€™s important to understand before the study how this chapter fits within the larger story of Jesus' ministry. Matthew's Gospel is organized in … Continue reading From Humility to Forgiveness

Thanksgiving

  I.      Introduction The air is filled with the warm aromas of a hearty feast, families gather around tables laden with dishes like roast turkey, sweet potatoes, and green bean casserole. Expressions of gratitude echo through the air during this festive season, as traditions like cranberry sauce and dressing bring family and friends together.  Beyond … Continue reading Thanksgiving

God’s Plan for You

I.      Jeremiah the Prophet Weโ€™re starting a new book today, a study of the major prophet Jeremiah.  Weโ€™re going to find over the course of the next several months much about the character of Jeremiah, and more importantly, the character of God. The book itself is long.  By word count, itโ€™s the longest book in … Continue reading God’s Plan for You

I Am the True Vine

   I.      Introduction Jesus made 7 โ€œI amโ€ statement in the book of John.  Do you remember what they were? I AM the Bread of Life I AM the Light of the World I AM the Door I AM the Good Shepherd I AM the Resurrection and the Life I AM the Way and the … Continue reading I Am the True Vine

His Hour Has Come

  I.      Introduction Even though weโ€™re still in the book of John, something is different.  Jesus has demonstrated seven major miracles, each one demonstrating Jesus is the true Messiah.  But He has completed His miracles, and now he will elaborate on His death and what it means for gentiles.  But before we go there, I … Continue reading His Hour Has Come

Bread of Life

ย  I.ย ย ย ย ย  Introduction Who does Jesus say He is? The book of John describes Jesus beautifully, beginning with verse 1, โ€œIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.โ€ย  But I want to skip to verses 9-13 because it gives a nice introduction to our lesson today. … Continue reading Bread of Life

Where Do We Find Hope?

Today is our conclusion of our study of minor prophets. First Amos, then Jonah and Hosea, and now Micah. That is four by my count, but there are a total of 12 minor prophets. No doubt we will return to Joel, Obadiah, Habakkuk and the others, but next week we open the New Testament book … Continue reading Where Do We Find Hope?

The Unfaithful Bride

I.       Introduction Weโ€™ve been working through the minor prophets, and so far, our common theme is that judgement is coming.  Judgement not just for the world, for the world and everything in it belongs to the Lord, but also for the Jewish people. And while those of us that have placed our trust in Christ … Continue reading The Unfaithful Bride

The Lion Roars

I. Introduction And now for something completely different. We have been in 1st and 2nd Kings, and now weโ€™re not. Weโ€™re in the book of Amos today, one of twelve minor prophets in Israel. What always strikes me when we read history of the Israel people is all the stupid things they did. Despite the … Continue reading The Lion Roars

Joy Through Humility

I. Introduction โ€“ Joy Through Humility Thanks for letting me teach today and share what the Lord has taught me. Our lesson today is on humility, a subject Iโ€™m well versed in. Iโ€™ve studied and practiced humility for years, and have become exceptionally proficient in humility. I took an online course called โ€œHow Humility Will … Continue reading Joy Through Humility

When Words Matter

  I.      Introduction Ecclesiastes is a unique book.  Most think it was written by Solomon near the end of his life, and itโ€™s a book of perspectives and of insights about the purpose of life.  Itโ€™s a book of depression as Solomon tries to find pleasure in this world, only to find that eternal pleasure … Continue reading When Words Matter

Elihu Speaks

             I.      Introduction Weโ€™ve been in the book of Job; weโ€™ve studied Jobโ€™s loss, his suffering, then speech after speech from Jobโ€™s friends.  Today weโ€™re going to study Elihu, or as I first asked when I started studying for this lesson โ€“ Eli Who?  I know everybody has been faithfully reading your scripture in preparation … Continue reading Elihu Speaks

Faith Tested

             I.      Introduction A guy named Pete gets a job as a switchman with the railroad, and undergoes weeks of training. The supervisor then takes him into the switch booth to test his readiness. The following exchange takes place: Supervisor: "Imagine you were sitting here alone and you learned there was a train coming from … Continue reading Faith Tested

Denying Christ

I.       Introduction โ€“ What Do We Do Under Pressure? It is easy to be a Christian at church.  We are in our safe place.  We have no triggers.  We are surrounded by brothers and sisters who encourage us.  So, it is easy to stand here in our safe environment and say, โ€œI am a follower … Continue reading Denying Christ

Willing

             I.      Introduction From time to time, we all come to a big decision in our lives.  I've lost my job; what should I do now?  I have a medical issue; how should I treat it?  Is this person right for me?  Should I compromise, or should I stand my ground? We are faced with … Continue reading Willing

Triumphal Entry

I. Introduction In our bible study lessons, we are getting closer to the death and resurrection of Jesus. Oddly, just in time for Easter. What are the odds? Jesus has been making His way toward Jerusalem for His final Passover. Along the way, He has been telling parables and teaching in synagogues. He has been … Continue reading Triumphal Entry

Neighbors

I.ย ย ย ย ย  Introduction Sometimes it's difficult to teach a familiar parable; we have pre-conceived notions, or perhaps previous bible studies left in our heads.  The Prodigal Son, the Lost Sheep, the Faithful Servant, the Ten Virgins, and so on.  Even non-Christians have heard the phrase "good Samaritan."  Letโ€™s see if we can look at this parable … Continue reading Neighbors

Lord of the Sabbath

I. Introduction Weโ€™re in Luke 6 today, and yet again the Pharisees are trying to trip Jesus up, and yet again Jesus sets them straight. Weโ€™re going to read about 2 Sabbath days that the Pharisees because angry because Jesus was doing good. But first I want to talk about who we are, or rather, … Continue reading Lord of the Sabbath