Trials and Testing

The church in Smyrna faced persecution. The four verses of this epistle are loaded with references to death, slander, fear, trials, poverty, tribulation, suffering and prison. This is a passage the prosperity gospel preachers would need to avoid.

Even so, it is very upbeat. It shows the resources they have that will enable them to be true to Jesus in the face of persecution.  We need this message because all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 

Sustaining Love

Christ reminds the Ephesians that he is in the midst of the seven churches and holding the seven stars in his right hand.  He is there both to comfort and to challenge them.  What does Christ want from the churches - from us?

The First And The Last

The book of Revelation may be the favorite portion of scripture for most cults and fringe groups. Why? Because it includes symbolic language and dramatic scenes. They feel free to twist these scriptures to fit their teachings.

How are we to understand the author's intent - the meaning that is built into the passage? How can we understand these things?

The Apocalypse

What do you think of when you hear the word "Apocalypse?"  The word has come to be associated with catastrophes or the "end of the world." But how is "Apocalypse" associated with the book of Revelation in the Bible. What is this all about?

Christian Family

What are we supposed to learn from ten verses of personal greetings at the end of the book of Colossians? How are we supposed to respond? What are we to do?