People assume that heroes don’t feel fear. They are wrong. Brave people feel the fear but act in spite of it. Those who have no sense of fear are not brave, but naive. People of faith experience doubt, but act in faith. It’s not the way we feel that counts, but the decisions we make. Doubt takes you down to the depths, where you discover your foundations and find that they are strong
Achan and Ai
The story of Achan can be uncomfortable reading. His condemntation was harsh, but was it just?
Adam and evolution
Stop reading?Evolution or Genesis – do we have to make a choice? Some people are sensitive to any questioning of the literal accuracy of the Bible’s creation story. Others are anxious to crush any thought of God under the hammer of evolutionary theory. If either of those statements describes you, perhaps you should stop reading … Continue reading Adam and evolution
The Supper that lasts
Communion is an enigmatic ceremony that can be misinterpreted as semi-magical. It's not. But it is a vital reminder of the core message and purpose of Jesus.
Shackle, Stake, or Anchor?
We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Hebrews 6:19 (NIV) Optional How restrictive is an anchor? Not much. It’s an optional item of marine equipment, but not in the sense that it’s dispensable. It would be a foolhardy sailor who set out without one. But an anchor doesn’t get … Continue reading Shackle, Stake, or Anchor?
Prophecy in Today’s Church
Melt-down Elijah was one of the greatest prophets in the Bible. He dared to oppose tyrants. He even faced up to Jezebel (presumed to have been the most wicked woman in the Bible). His prophecies came true, and he performed many remarkable miracles. But he was constantly plagued with loneliness and discouragement and, following his … Continue reading Prophecy in Today’s Church
Your kingdom come
This, then, is how you should pray ... your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:9,10 NIV “Your Kingdom come" Is not a dream of realms beyond the sun, where angels sing and all is good, and God's will's always done. No! It's a call for massive … Continue reading Your kingdom come
A fruitful life
Side-linedJoan wasn’t unknown, at least, not in her home range. But you probably never heard of her. She was kind, generous, hospitable, and popular – but increasingly forgotten as age side-lined her from the youthful mainstream. Most of us fade from sight as we grow older. But her funeral, in June 2019, was well attended. … Continue reading A fruitful life
Prophetic paradox
Don’t speak to me again (Based on 1 Kings 19:3-13, Jeremiah 20:7-9, Jonah 1:1-3, 4:1-3) Don’t speak to me again, Lord for then I’ll have to share and my words may be rejected, which is hard for me to bear. Don’t put me under pressure; don’t burden me with care. I can’t give what’s expected, … Continue reading Prophetic paradox
Why is Leviticus so bloody?
Dead Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, STOP! How many resolutions to read the Bible come to a halt at the third book? Leviticus can be a difficult read. It’s repetitious, its culture seems alien, and there’s so much blood. Why? Burnt offerings, fellowship offerings, sin offerings – all of them produced lots of blood and all ended … Continue reading Why is Leviticus so bloody?
