My previous blog, “How Temptation Works”, explained the subtle workings of temptation. It helps to understand how temptation works, but we also need to understand how to overcome it.
Overcoming Temptation
How Temptation Works
Grace. Free forgiveness. Undeserved acceptance. The Gospel of Christ is unique among religions. It turns upside down the idea that salvation depends on our good deeds. It doesn’t. God’s forgiveness, and our future destiny, depends entirely on God’s generosity. But that doesn’t mean that morality has no part in our faith
Naboth’s vineyard
Ahab is seen as one of Israel’s worst kings. He was a liar, a cheat, and a bully, but the incident vineyard of Naboth's is the only recorded example of corruption that could get him impeached today. It is an object lesson in how temptation works.
Bible in a Year
Encouragement and hints to aid familiarisation with the WHOLE Bible - plus a link to download a FREE personal Bible Reading Record.
0131a…St Michael’s Recent History
The village of Stoke Gifford has a history going back at least to the time of the Saxons, and a website maintained by a local enthusiast tells the story fully and extensively. At the village centre, St. Michael's church has always been a key part of the community, but the history of the church on … Continue reading 0131a…St Michael’s Recent History
Heroes of Doubt
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.
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
