The very first words spoken to mankind recorded in Scripture are well-known: “Be fruitful and multiply” (Gen. 1:28).  From Genesis to Revelation, this theme of increasing and multiplying appears over and over again. Why? Because God is intent on creating a people for himself, for his glory. He is pleased to make the glories of […]

The Christian life is to be a life characterized by good works. These good works are anything done in faith for the good of others and the glory of God. Paul reminded Titus of this fact when he wrote that God’s grace had appeared in the person and work of Jesus Christ, “who gave himself […]

Having stated the goals of gospel ministry and the qualifications of elders, Paul explains how the goals of faith and godliness are achieved in the local church: “He [an elder] must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke […]

The puritan preacher, John Flavel, once remarked: “Every man loves the mercies of God, but a saint loves the God of mercies.” In times of trial, suffering, and need, anyone will gladly receive blessings from God; it doesn’t take the new birth to appreciate his mercies. In fact, anyone can perform religious duties and portray […]

“A sower went out to sow his seed”—so begins one of the most familiar parables of Jesus, a profound teaching found in all three Synoptic gospels (Matt. 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-20; Luke 8:4-15). Jesus frequently would illustrate kingdom truths and spiritual realities with images, stories, and experiences from everyday life that would relate to his hearers.  Yet the purpose […]

The northern kingdom of Israel experienced the judgment of God for their idolatry and was destroyed. Jeremiah now prophecies to the southern kingdom of Judah, proclaiming that God’s judgment would likewise fall upon them for their similar sin of idolatry, their failure to worship God as he deserved, and rejection of his laws. But what has […]