Acts 21:17-26 As Paul arrives in Jerusalem, he knows that trouble probably awaits him. Despite the warnings, Paul continues to go, choosing to submit himself to the leadership of the Jerusalem elders. In doing so, he ultimately is submitting himself to the will of God, even if it might not seem like it in the moment. When Paul meets with James and the elders, they all rejoice and praise God for wh...  Read More

Acts 10The risk is real, and the Gospel is worth the risk! Paul had an understanding that I think is very important. Jesus has given him a second chance. Jesus died on the cross for Paul and for all people. Jesus has given everything for Paul! Paul understands that he must be willing not only to be bound for Jesus and the gospel news but also to die as well. This is not the only time we see this k...  Read More

Main Point and Overview:   The Apostle Paul knew from the beginning that when Jesus called him to Gospel ministry, his purpose would include great suffering. In fact, every time he suffered, he used it as a catalyst for preaching the Gospel. He didn’t see comfort or security as his top priority. Some may say that he was reckless in how he lived; I prefer to say that he was relentless in what he be...  Read More

James 2:1“My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.”Favoritism. As a grandmother, I know I’m not supposed to have favorites, BUT... last week, one of the grands guessed my age to be 41. That grand just might be my favorite! That’s a fun story, but there is another, and I have some regrets about it. It took place a quarter-century ago on a cold, ...  Read More

Galatians 3:8We’ve all heard the saying “There is something for everyone.” The implication is that everyone will find something that suits them. It is often a tag line for an amusement park or a movie. Sadly, modern churches are promoting the same message, conforming to cultural norms for the sake of being popular and accepted. I prefer to look at the Gospel, God’s plan, as “one thing for everyone...  Read More

Luke 2:8-10 When Debbie and I were first married, she accompanied me on a Wyoming hunting trip. We were hunting mule deer on a cattle and sheep ranch that encompassed more than 150,000 acres. This was in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and was beautiful country. As we were entering a large, several-hundred-acre pasture, a herd of sheep heard us opening the gate and came racing over the hill l...  Read More